Just Another Day in Paradise

Embracing the Good

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Sat, 04 Jul 2020 19:13:00 +0000

Happy 14th Alive Day, Chloe-girl!!!❤️ We celebrate the gift of your life every day but on this day especially, we glance back and take some time to let the gratefulness flow over us once again as we remember all that God has done in your life. I used to be afraid of the memories, afraid of this day approaching on the calendar every year...the tears would burn, the lump in my throat would build and I would just want the day to quickly pass. BUT when we started celebrating this day as your ALIVE DAY, wow what a difference it made! We started looking for special ways to spend the day and of course, I eagerly try to pick just a FEW (ha, yeah right!) pictures to give a snapshot of the past year of your life. Blogging on this day originally started out as my therapy, a way to process my thoughts and feelings as a mom but I'm hoping that one day you will read this blog as a chronicle of all the amazing and wonderful things that have happened in your life despite the dark days.

July 5, 2019 - Reconstructive surgery on Chloe's leg to remove the old skin graft and unnecessary extra tissue which was causing problems with the fit of her prosthesis. This was a difficult time as Chloe could not walk the entire summer as she healed. The surgery was not as successful as we had hoped, healing took much longer than expected and the area still gives her pain at times.

Happy Sweet Sixteenth birthday, beautiful!!

Chloe got her second ear piercing done, looks so cute!! She went to the mall, wheelchair and all! (which she never would have done before)

This was quite a fun memory!! Before Chloe's surgery, she talked us into doing the Glow Foam Run in August. Now mind you, she was not able to walk and was still healing. But...we all said yes! Her sweet friends pushed her in the wheelchair for the whole run IN THE DARK people, with glow foam being dumped on us! What amazing friends we have, they are willing to do ANYTHING for Chloe! We had a great weekend together, what a pick me up for Chloe last summer. :)

Typical Chloe...BIG SMILES in the middle of the glow in the dark after party dancing like nobody was watching!!

HIGHLIGHT of the year..meeting Coach Harbaugh at the Ravens Training Camp. WOW! Chloe saw stars as she talked with Coach and was able to meet the Ravens players. It was a dream come true thanks to the McGraw family. xo

And YES!!! Lamar Jackson too...she was pretty taken with this guy. Lamar was gracious, funny and so down to earth as he talked with them and posed for photos.

NO LIMITS!!!

Thanks to Chloe's amazing prosthetist, Greg and his team, Chloe was able to get back into her prosthesis right in time for us to head to the beach!! It was amazing and truly such good medicine for all of us. There's no place like the beach and there's nobody like family. We had such a relaxing week, taking it easy and enjoying the time together.

Due to a variety of circumstances, Chloe began her Junior year at new school - Concordia Preparatory School. Talk about a whole pile of emotions! You name it, Chloe felt it. On top of the anxiety of starting a brand new school and only knowing two people, she was on crutches because her leg was not healed yet. She also couldn't play volleyball until weeks into the season. It was a very very HARD few weeks. But God, who is so faithful carried her through. Moment by moment and day by day it got a little easier, a little better and pretty soon it was as if she had always been there. She embraced the new school, new friends, new opportunities and began to thrive!

How is she now just finished her Junior year and heading into her Senior year??!!!!

Camp No Limits, Maryland...one of her favorites! Time to be with the only people who "get it". There's just nothing like it. Her safe place with her best friends. Her and Emma, BK buddies...such a strong bond with these two sweeties.

Homecoming Dance with friends!! What a fun time they had!

Thanks again to her prosthetist, Greg, Chloe was able to wear heels for the first time ever!!! Cue the tears and smiles!!!

Chloe loves playing volleyball!! She was so thankful to be able to play the majority of the season despite her late start. So grateful to have her sweet friend, Sabrina there at CPS with her!!

Her beautiful class ring!!

A day in NYC ~ a horse drawn carriage ride, ice skating and seeing the all the beautiful Christmas lights with the girls!

Chloe's first runway show - The Limb Kind Foundation's Show Your Shine Show! It was INCREDIBLE!!! Chloe had a blast with her friends from camp and also had the opportunity to meet a wonderful family who sponsored her outfit for the evening. It was such and wonderful event! Chloe was radiant!

Sweet friends!!

NEW DRIVER!! So exciting to see Chloe got her drivers license! Look out world!!

Chloe learned to drive my Ford Expedition like a BOSS!!

Her first time driving on her own to meet up with her friend, Sabrina. So cute!!

Our sunshine girl!

Chloe was thrilled to have her best friend, Kaylie, come and visit for a few days! They enjoyed some hiking and unusually warm weather early this spring.

Quarantine Life - wow, talk about challenging days for Chloe and for all of us! It brought many struggles and challenges but it also brought lots of good things too!

Virtual School with Jasper, lol!

Lots of walks, hikes and time to chill.

Lots of drive time just to get out of the house! Chloe missed school and her friends so so much.

It was hard not to be there so we drove past to wave hi!

Chloe was chosen to be the Princeton Alumni Association of Maryland Book Award Nominee with another classmate. She also received her academic letter award for earning straight A's all year!

Lots of DIY projects!! Chloe made a lovely little terrarium to give some life and beauty to her room.

Her sweet friends invited her to join them in a virtual Art Class - it was so fun!! She took Art this year in school and learned so much, she just loved it!

A brand NEW LEG!! It's gorgeous like her...

Chloe chose an African batik fabric and they did such an awesome job fabricating her leg just like she wanted it!!!

Out with the old, in with the new...her gold leg will be her swim leg which is great since Chloe has been training with a kind friend, Tara, to take the Lifeguarding Course in a few weeks. Another dream that Chloe has always had.

Oh sweet girl, how we love you!! I cannot actually believe you are going into your last year of high school. It went by too fast and this mama is not ready to say goodbye...I am so excited for you as you take virtual college tours, make your college list, apply for scholarships, take the SATs, plan and prepare and dream!! I cannot imagine a time when you don't live with us...it's too much for me to think about right now so I promise I will ENJOY EVERY MOMENT of this next year I have with you, my love. The sky is the limit for you! My prayer for you is that you continue to do what you have always done ~ Embrace the Good, there is SO MUCH GOOD!! Always remember that God is good, all the time God is good and has phenomenal things in store for you to enjoy!

Dream Big, Love Big!

All my love, Mama ❤️

Chloe shares some of her thoughts on the anniversary of her Alive Day!❤️

"In Her Own Words"

xoxo

Her Father's Joy

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Thu, 04 Jul 2019 00:17:00 +0000

We celebrate Chloe's 13th Alive Day today! I couldn't think of a better way to celebrate Chloe's Alive Day then seeing her spend the day with her friends biking and swimming! She is so blessed to have friends who get her, who don't see her leg but see HER.

It's hard to believe that it's been 13 years and yet it seems like yesterday. Looking back and remembering is healthy and cathartic. I am always encouraged to think over the previous year and see what God has done in and through Chloe and how far she's come.
I often reply to people who comment on how amazing Chloe is with, "we just try to keep up with her" :). It's so incredibly true though! Chloe is always up for something new, something challenging, something fun, something daring...just get out of her way! Today I thought about that quality and how that has characterized her life and that I know it will transform the landscape of the rest of her life.

A funny note - there are a million different things that Chloe would like to do with her life. Recently, she learned that she could not be in the military because of her prosthetic leg. She was furious, how dare someone say she's not good enough and can't do something! Look out Armed Forces, she's coming for ya! :) LOL!

Chloe's had another incredible year! I always like to tell most of the story in pictures...

Wildwood, NJ beach day with Chloe's Aunt and cousins

A road trip with her friends to Camp No Limits Teen Camp in Maine.

The Wims Mobile is the bomb!! :)

Finally got to see her long time Florida friend, Kaia at Teen Camp!!

Camp No Limits friends in Maryland

Best buds, soul sisters...they just get each other!

They say a picture is worth a thousand words...

Deep Creek, MD with family - first time on the sea-doo!

Celebrating together with family!

Camp No Limits BFFs - Nuts for No Limits Bike Ride

Enjoying the ride with Tyson.

An awesome treat! Behind the scenes at the Zoo with the fam.

Stubby, the Rhino and the Penguins were the favs!

Chloe had the best school year yet - her sophomore year!

Chloe served as the SGA Secretary this year.

She loved playing Volleyball once again with her good friends

The school dances with her friends are some of her fav times.
This girl likes to boogie!! :)

Where has the time gone? Sophomore Year 2018-2019

School Drama Production of Beauty and the Beast Jr.

Her first musical and she loved it!

Sweet friends

Field trips are the best with friends!

Tackling the King and Queen Seat. Heights? Who's afraid of heights?!

Her beauty radiates from the inside out! There has never been a more precious spirit.

Chloe received the Scholar Athlete Award this year.

And she got her LEARNER'S PERMIT...my baby is driving, how did this happen?!!!

The best class ever!!! How Chloe loved her Mrs. T!!

And Chloe's cat, Jasper never leaves her side.

Chloe celebrated her 16th birthday early with a girls trip to Ocean City, MD!

The beach is her most favorite place to be...of course!

Always an Animal Lover

Last Day of School - I am so proud of you, Chloe-girl!!

Family -- where would we be without each other? Through the good and bad...

She enjoyed a fun trip down to Southern MD and boating with her best friend, Sabrina

Chloe had a blast with her Aunt at Hershey Park.

(yes, even the roller coasters that she wasn't supposed to ride on!)

The past few weeks since school's been out, Chloe has packed in everything she possibly could because she will be having surgery on her leg this Friday. It will be reconstructive/plastic surgery, prayerfully a less intense surgery than she has had before. This surgery is something that we have been thinking about but wanted Chloe to be old enough to make up her own mind about whether she wanted to have it or not. The hope is that the surgeon will be able to get rid of the skin graft, the extra tissue that always pinches and the pressure point area that blisters and causes her pain. We are praying for a perfect result and super fast healing for our sweet girl! If you think of her, please pray for her healing and encouragement this summer. Summer is her favorite time of the year and to not be able to be mobile and do all the things she loves is so disappointing. It's difficult to watch her struggle with this but we are up to the challenge of making sure she still has a great summer! xo

The irony of the timing of this surgery is not lost on us. This time 13 years ago Chloe was in the hospital and now she is going back in two days. Memories are a funny thing, with time the severity of emotion and pain lessens but your heart always remembers. There was a time when I would have done anything to take her place but now I'm at peace with the fact that this is the path that was chosen for her very best. As a mama, anything that causes your child pain is usually something that you would not choose for them. But as a believer in a God who loves my child so much more than I do, I continue to place her in His tender hands.

Every single day this girl amazes us -- her smile, her laughter, her compassion, her sensitivity, her passion, her determination, her perception and her capacity to love -- there's no end to it. She is truly her Father's joy and she is our joy as well. A gift from God on loan to us. Our family would be so lonely without her.

And so I say again as I do every year -- God is good, all the time God is good! God is faithful and He is continuing to work out His perfect plan for Chloe's life so we are grabbing the popcorn and settling in to watch all that He does in her, for her and through her.

We love you with all our hearts, Chloe-girl! XOXO.

Happy ALIVE Day, sweetheart!!

You can't help but love her...

Marvelous Mettle

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 05:19:00 +0000

Mettle suggests an ingrained capacity for meeting strain or difficulty with fortitude and resilience. (a challenge that will test your mettle)

There are many words that we use to describe our Chloe girl ❤️ The one above is a perfect one for her this year!!

Chloe had a bunch of “firsts” beginning with attending the 1st Camp No Limits Teen Camp in Maine! It was awesome and she is super excited to go again this summer! She conquered some major fears and survived her first time white water rafting...during which she thought she just might die. ☺️

She then went on to tackle the medium Ropes Course at the Maryland Camp No Limits. CNL continues to be a place of community, encouragement, support and safety for Chloe.

At the end of last summer, I felt like Chloe really needed an outlet, something relaxing and therapeutic. God impressed upon me to look into horseback riding lessons. A few weeks later, through a friend from church, Chloe was taking riding lessons from a dear woman who generously gives of her time and talent to teach Chloe! It has been extremely challenging for Chloe, probably the first time she has truly struggled with her prosthetic leg doing a physical activity. So many times we forget she has anything different to deal with because she so able. But this was a real challenge, physically and mentally and emotionally. She pushes through every lesson and doesn’t give up. She learned so much and in her own words, learned that she doesn’t have to be perfect, that she just has to give it her best!

In the fall, Chloe began her first year of High School, how did that happen??! Ninth grade was extremely challenging but she again and again met each hurdle head on. Public speaking, though she says she hates it, you’d never know it to listen to her. She rocks it every single time!!

Chloe took on the role of Harriet in Jane Austen’s Emma for her school’s Drama Production. She was truly mesmerizing!!

On top of her schoolwork, Yearbook Club, a large role in the school play, playing volleyball for school...She was awarded the Guardian Award for Excellence in Academics for earning straight A’s all year. We were even more proud to watch her receive the Guardian Award for Excellence in Christian Character. ❤️✝️

Last fall, thanks to her amazing prosthetist, Chloe took an intro scuba diving course and LOVED every minute of it! She definitely wants to do it again, who knows? Maybe go for her diving license?!!

Chloe loves all of the extra curricular school activities, especially the dances!! She loves dancing circles around her brother, lol!! 😉 It’s so fun to watch them do things together. ❤️

Our Chloe girl is a delight to our hearts, a joy and pleasure to be around. She radiates the love and compassion of Jesus. She is kind, generous, selfless, hard working, determined, pure in heart, smart, focused and loving. Our family was complete when God gave her to us. When I allow myself to think back to 12 years ago when we could have lost her, I am at a complete loss for words of gratefulness to God for sparing he life. I know God’s hand is on her in a special way! We are certain that His plans for her are so good, better than what we can imagine for her. It is a privilege to stand back and watch her...the difficulties she faces truly test her mettle and inspire her to draw her strength from her Savior Jesus Christ, through Whom she can do all things through Him Who gives her strength!

So once again, I ask our friends and family to join us in celebrating Chloe’s Alive Day, the day God spared her life and gave her back to us! It is a day that we will never let pass without acknowledging God’s faithfulness and grace in our lives. We are so thankful for Chloe and the blessing and gift she is to us and to all who know her! God is so good, all the time God is good!

Our Chloe girl...our Vibrant Joy!

Courageous Joy

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Mon, 04 Jul 2016 01:06:00 +0000

Today marks the 10h anniversary of Chloe's accident, a life changing experience for our girl and for our entire family. I cannot believe it's been that long, so much has happened since then. It's funny because Chloe just stumbled upon this blog and I shared with her why I continue to write on here every July 3rd. This is for her. My prayer is that Chloe will be able to read through all the posts about her and see how God's hands has rested powerfully on her from birth.

It's been good for me as well, in the beginning it was more about having a place to pour out my heart in those first agonizing days after her accident. In the last few years, it has developed into a yearly testimony to all the amazing things that God has and is doing in and through this amazing young girl!

I love to tell her story in pictures...

We have been through so much as a family. God has been the glue and we stand today together, the bond of love stronger than ever. All the glory goes to God!

Family Love

Camp No Limits continues to be a HUGE part of our lives! As Chloe grows as a young lady, we are excited to see how her role changes from camper to mentor. She and Emma have a super strong bond through some tough shared expeiences.

Camp No Limits, CT ~ Attended camp by herself for the 1st time!

We are always amazed by the things Chloe is able to do, there are truly NO LIMITS!!

Camp No Limits, Maine

So thrilling to see the advances in prosthetics! This was such a fun time shared with good friends.

Camp No Limits, MD ~ Tried a running foot for the 1st time!

Chloe not only sets and achieves physical goals but she does the same with academic goals. She finished 7th grade with all A's! She works hard at everything she does.

1st Day of School ~ 7th Grade for Chloe and 9th for Alex

She was very excited for her very first middle school dance at school!
What a special girl she is, truly her father's joy!

1st School Dance

We love to see her in sports! Chloe loves being active and playing on her school teams.

Played soccer for her school

She is a beauty inside and out!

Havre de Grace, MD

She had the opportunity to attend four different Camp No Limits in the past year ~

CT, ME, MD, FL

Camp No Limits, FL ~ Gator fun!

Camp No Limits, FL ~ Dominating the Ropes Course

Camp No Limits, FL ~ Amp Buddies

For the most part, this year has been incredible for Chloe physically with one exception. In December, she injured her leg and ruptured an area of bursitis she's had for awhile. Her leg swelled to double the size and she was out of her leg for weeks. So hard to see her like that, but she's a champ! We were able to get her a wheelchair and we just carried on as normal. Chloe never complains and has a smile on her face no matter the obstacle.

It is evidence of God's mercy and grace!

Longwood Gardens with the girls ~ Always smiling even when in pain and in a wheelchair

This girl loves the beach like her mama! We enjoyed a little family getaway to VA Beach.

Beach Lover

Chloe loves playing softball and had an awesome year! No one except another amputee understands how much harder Chloe has to work to do the same things others do in sports. We are so proud of her, she works twice as hard as anyone on her team! She never complains, never whines, never feels sorry for herself, never asks for extra slack, never asks to be treated special. I'm pretty sure most of the girls and their parents on her team this year did not realize that she has a prosthetic leg! :)

Softball girl

She is FULL of laughter and joy! What a sweet blessing this girl is to our family. How lost and lonely we would be without her. We give all thanks to God for saving her life 10 years ago.

Silly Girl

She was thrilled to be in her first school play and to be one of her favorite characters from Anne of Green Gables! I do believe she has a natural talent for drama!! LOL :)

1st School Play ~ Chloe was Diana and Alex was Gilbert in Anne of Green Gables

We were so excited that Chloe's good friend, Emma, was able to attend the Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Camp that Chloe went to in CA last summer. These guys are our heroes and they just give the kids inspiration and confidence that is extraordinary! This year they were close enough for us to go down and watch the final big game. It was awesome!! Chloe loved seeing her friends again and was honored to be the bat girl for them. She had a smile from ear to ear and talked about it all the way home!

Super pumped to be the Bat Girl for her friends from the Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Team!

Good catch!

Our sweet girl, such a precious gift from God on loan to us for a little while...

Courage, Strength, Faith, Laughter, Faith, Love

This girl...what can I say? The older she gets, the more open she is and talks quite often about her accident and how it has changed her life. After the WWAST game on the way home, Chloe told me that she was grateful to have the life she has. She is grateful that she had her accident because she never would have met the people she has met, made the friends she has, been able to do all the amazing things she has done. Let me tell you, it was one of those conversations that I will remember for the rest of my life. Talk about emotional, this mama was a hot mess! All I could think of was the goodness of God. To see my daughter's faith grow, to see the beauty from ashes that God has orchestrated...it's unbelievable! I will always struggle with some of the whys and the wanting to trade places with her, I would in a heartbeat. And yes, whenever she has hard days or pain, I ache and I mourn for what was "normal life"...I can't help it, I'm her mama. But the majority of time, I just revel in how far God has brought her and how He knew from the begining of time that this was Chloe's journey. The day that rocked our world was not an accident in God's perspective...He was with us every moment. He's been with us every step, every day and every year since then. Her heavenly Father created her and gave her everything she needs to meet every obstacle head on, conquer it and move on to the next one with a perseverance and tenacity that is mind blowing. God's hand rests powerfully on our daughter, whose name means Vibrant and her Father's Joy. These words could not describe our girl more accurately!

Ten years ago, if you would have asked me to forsee where Chloe would be, where we would be as a family, I never in a million years would have guessed! Isn't that God? He is able to do much more than anything we could ever think or imagine! And so, by faith today I look another ten years down the road to when Chloe is 23 years old...I see amazing things, I see the sky is the limit, I see the ripple effect of God's grace extend outward to so many others through Chloe, I see her setting goals and demolishing them, I see her growing in grace and love, I see her continuing to be a living testimony to the goodness of God. Friends, so many of you have walked with us these past ten years...continue to believe with me. Believe and have faith for yourselves, for your families...have Hope! God never disappoints us and He will never let us down!

Life to the Fullest

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Fri, 03 Jul 2015 16:01:00 +0000

One of my favorite things to do on this date, is to pause and take time to look back over the past year to see what God has done in Chloe's life and how far He has brought her. It is such a faith builder for me personally and I pray that it will be for Chloe too one day. Physically, Chloe has had a phenomenal year with no issues with pain or problems with her prosthesis. Emotionally, she has also had a phenomenal year with incredible growth, maturity and her increasing ability to OWN who she is, to shine brightly and to THRIVE in her world! This amazing girl is such an example to all those around her, especially her family. Chloe is the last one to complain, the last one to look for sympathy, and the last one to make excuses. She is full of compassion, love, gentleness and joy! She excels in everything she does with such passion, commitment and tenacity to grow and improve every day. Every year I am blown away by the opportunities that God opens up to her, many of which are possible because of the "accident" that happened 9 years ago today.

How is it possible that 9 years have passed since the day that rocked our world and shook us to the very core? You know the saying, time heals all wounds. In many ways I would agree with this - most of the time I go throughout my days never thinking about that terrible season. I am able to talk about it freely and I am able to share with others Chloe's story of how God spared her life and redirected her path in such a way that is more incredible than I ever could've imagined. Chloe has gone through very difficult and dark days but I know without a shadow of a doubt that God never left her and that He is actively at work bringing incredible beauty from those ashes. These days I don't struggle with a longing to change her path, to make it better, to fix it or trade places with her - not that I don't struggle ever. That's just called being a mama :). But as Chloe grows and matures, my faith grows and matures as I watch God gently unfold all these amazing things He's doing in her and through her. And honestly, I stand amazed and in awe of the beauty that flows from this girl that God has gifted to us for a time. As the years pass, I am painfully aware that time with Chloe at home with us grows shorter. And so we jump in with both feet to everything we can join her in and together we are able to enjoy the ride that God has us on as a family. Our future, Chloe's future is very bright because God is the one that hold it in His hands.

I say the same thing every July 3rd and I will continue to say it every day, that God is good all the time…and all the time God is good.

The past year for Chloe in pictures, most recent ones first...It's been such an incredible year!

Chloe and Alex enjoy a trip to Toronto with the family this summer.

Chloe begins summer softball league for 2015.

Chloe was chosen with 19 other amputee kids to fly out to spend a week in California at theWounded Warrior Amputee Softball Kids Camp. It was one of the most incredible weeks she's ever had! The inspiration given by these amazing Vets was awesome! The connection they had with the kids was magical, I cannot even describe it in words.

The Big Game - WWAST kids camp. Lightning vs Thunder :)

For the first time, Chloe met and made friends with girls her age who were also amputees. Every other camp, Chloe has always made friends with siblings of amputee kids. So this was a first, an incredible first!!

The guys were so awesome, spending time working with, teaching, encouraging and inspiring our kids to grow, succeed, improve and excel! Their motto: Life Without Limbs is Limitless. How true!!

Chloe got to take a weekend trip to NYC with her 6th grade class this May. What a fun time!!

Soooo thrilled to go with her!!!

Chloe "aka" Smash - continues to love playing softball!!

For the first time in 9 years, Chloe decided to do an open design with her leg. She went with a zebra design which I think is the coolest thing ever!!! We are SO proud of our girl and the beautiful amazing young lady she is becoming!

First concert with her BFF

Much to celebrate at Christmas!

Chloe had a part in her school Christmas play.

Tackling the bungee trampoline at Camp No Limits in Maine.

Working on her PT and biking skills at CNL.

Rocking our CNL shirts at the showing of Dolphin Tale 2!

First day of 6th grade at her new school (joining Alex).

Conquering the giant swing at Camp No limits in Maryland.

Zip line fun!

Wet zip line, goes right into the water!! Talk about facing your fear!

Loving her open design leg at Mrytle Beach! Less hassle for swimming and less questions asked!!

Our family - such a blessed gift from God!

Life is a Precious Gift

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Thu, 03 Jul 2014 16:09:00 +0000

This year totally snuck up on me, which is unusual but an awesome thing!! Normally, I kinda dread this day to be honest. In the past, I would see it coming up on the calendar and cringe inside. The anniversary doesn't mean anything to anyone but us. We don't talk about it with Chloe because she's doing AWESOME and is rockin' life one day at a time. But for Joel and I...we remember, reflect and give thanks. It's cathartic for us. That's why I write on here every year, I hope to print these out for Chloe one day as a type of journal, an encouragement to see how FAR God has brought her and all the amazing things He has done in and through her!! So much more to come too! :) I truly love looking back at the year and seeing all the wonderful things that have happened and even the challenging things too. Pictures are my favorite way to do that...

This is Chloe at our FAV place, Camp No Limits in Maine!!

She learned how to paddle board for the first time and

looked like a pro out there :)

Rock Climbing (with a flower in her hair)

Made it to the top and rang that bell!!! :)

Camp No Limits, Maryland

It is my all time fav time to spend with Chloe, watching her challenge herself and grow and be with the people who "get it" and are just like family to us!!

This past fall, Chloe tried Soccer and had a blast!!

It wasn't the easiest on her leg but that didn't stop her :)

She loves her animals!!

This spring, she fell in love with Softball!!

Wow, she's a powerhouse - they call her Slugger :)

They love having a Dad who loves to play sports with them!! :)

Chloe's last concert at elementary school,

playing Violin and singing in the Chorus!

Spring 2014 school picture - time is flying too fast!!

Chloe's 5th Grade Graduation

We are oozing with pride over the precious girl God has allowed us to call ours!

She is our Sunshine and brings so much joy and laughter to our lives!!

It's been 8 years since -- our lives changed, our family faced the most heart wrenching of circumstances, our darkest day, we wondered how we would survive and what her life would be like, we cried and we worried every day...

It's been 8 years since -- we saw God spare our daughter's life, we had a legion of people surround us with care, love and prayer support, we saw Chloe leap over every hurdle in front of her, we looked into those sparkly eyes steely with determination and knew everything would be ok, we celebrated her walking again, we forgave and received forgiveness, we loved abundantly and received love abundantly...

We call it an "accident" but we believe in a God who lovingly orders all our steps. Did He cause Chloe to get hurt? No. Did He allow Chloe to get hurt? Yes. Do I still wonder why some days and wish things were different? Yes. I am human - I am a Mother. However, I have seen amazing things in and through my daughter because of this journey, I have seen her experience amazing things because of this journey, I have been blown away by the things that God has allowed to come into our lives because of this journey.

In the past year, Chloe has been to 2 Camp No Limits - (learned to paddle board, beat the rock wall, rode a mechanical bull, faced down the super sized swing, challenged herself to the ropes course, went tubing) had an awesome time at Pirate Camp in FL - (learned how to sail, paddle boarded, caught a sea urchin). She played soccer for the first time, had an awesome first CNL fundraiser and was given a Kingsville firemen's helmet and a chance to say Thank You in person, made a group of school friends who truly accepted her for who she is, played softball for the first time, got a newly designed prosthesis, finished her Patriot program and enjoyed a field trip as an award, got excellent grades, graduated from 5th grade, is looking forward to another awesome summer and transferring to a new school in the fall!!! :)

What can I say in response to all this? God is good. All the time, God is good. And I believe that with all my heart, it gives me joy on the good days and hope on the difficult days. I have come to see that all things come through my heavenly Father's hands and that they are good, intended for my very best. That is true also for Chloe-girl, who belongs to God as well! I will continue to claim that truth for her until the day she is able to claim that for herself.

So today, I'm going to be JOYFUL and THANKFUL because I have so many reasons to do so...

~ A Tribute ~

This year we grieved the loss of a dear friend, the Orthopedic Dr. that operated on Chloe after her accident. Dr. Arabella Leet was a precious woman who loved Chloe from the minute she met her and Chloe loved her - we all did! I don't know if I could have received the words, "we couldn't save her foot" from anyone other than this sweet lady. We knew without a doubt that she had tried everything she could and we could be at peace with her decision to amputate. Dr. Leet walked with us through many difficulties, trials, surgeries, procedures and healing. She championed and cheered Chloe every step of the way, often calling Chloe "her hero". But Dr. Leet was our hero, one that is truly and deeply missed. It broke our hearts to hear of her too soon passing. A large piece of Chloe's history went with her, no one else knows the details surrounding this date. The world was better with her in it, we are better because we knew her and loved her and called her friend. With all our hearts we want to honor her life by living our lives to the fullest, loving and encouraging those around us! I know it would make her so happy to see Chloe thriving and living with zest, spirit and determination...we love you, Dr. Leet xoxo

Warning!!

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Thu, 11 Jul 2013 12:41:00 +0000

Many of you may know but some may not of our sweet Chloe's story. Click here to read why these articles touch so close to home for me. I beg you to read this and seriously consider these recommendations and take action.

I write this post because I feel compelled to warn others of the danger of allowing children remotely near lawn mowers of any kind. Please, giving your child a ride on a lawn mower is NOT a "fun family thing" to do, it highly dangerous and has such a great potential to do severe damage. We need to instill a healthy "fear" and respect for the lawn mower.

For your children's sake, PLEASE teach them proper safety measures when it comes to lawn mowers. And please PASS it on to your friends and family.

I wish with all my heart someone would have shared this warning with us.

This July marked the 7 year anniversary of Chloe's accident and amputation...think about it...

**************************

"The No. 1 advice to parents is: Treat the lawn mower as hazardous equipment, not a toy. You don't let a child play with an electric saw, and that's exactly what a lawn mower is," Carol Gentry, pediatric OR nurse manager, said in a prepared statement.

***************************

"Lawn mower-related injuries account for more than 51% of traumatic amputations among children. Major limb loss is most commonly caused by lawn mowers for children under the age of 10.

Kendra Calhoun, president and chief executive officer of the Amputee Coalition, stated in a press release. “Amputations from lawn mower accidents are among the most preventable. By following common-sense safety rules, you can prevent lawn mower injuries to yourself and others.”

The tips:
• Keep children under 6 years old indoors while a power mower is in operation.
• Let no child under 12 use a walk-behind mower.
• Keep children under 16 off ride-on mowers, even if with a parent.
• If you are mowing and you see a child running toward you, turn off the mower immediately. Children can fall and slip into the blade, especially if the grass is wet.
• Wear protective goggles and close-toed shoes when operating a mower or when near one.
• Before mowing, clean the lawn of debris such as sticks and stones, which may get caught in the blades and propelled out.
• If injury occurs, call 911 right away and apply pressure to the wound to stop bleeding while you await an ambulance.
• Buy mowers with a no-reverse safety feature that requires the operator to turn around (and see behind him) in order to shift into reverse.

~ Source ~

The Amputee Coalition offers these safety guidelines:

Never allow children to play on a lawn mower, even if it is turned off;
Never allow a child to ride on a riding lawn mower with you;
Keep your children indoors and do not allow other children to play nearby while you are mowing; and
Children should be 12 years of age or older before operating any lawn mower and at least 16 years old to operate a riding mower.

Before starting your lawn mower, use this simple Amputee Coalition checklist, which is based on information from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Keep this checklist in your garage or near your mowing equipment.

It only takes a minute to prevent disaster.

Before Mowing:

Pick up stones, toys and debris from the lawn to prevent injuries from flying objects;
Wear shoes, not sandals;
Use eye and hearing protection;
Start and refuel mowers outdoors, never in a garage;
Refuel with the motor turned off and cool; and
Have an adult adjust blade settings.

While Mowing:

Only use mowers with automatic shutdown abilities; and
Do not mow in reverse unless necessary.

After Mowing:

Wait for blades to stop completely before removing the grass catcher, unclogging the discharge chute, or crossing gravel roads."

~Source~

***************************

NEEDLESS limb loss accidents CAN be prevented by taking simple commonsense precautions.

Every time you start your mower, you are dealing with a dangerous and potentially deadly piece of equipment.

~Source~

"For about 70,000 people this year, mowing the lawn will turn into a brush with death or serious injury. The statistics, from the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission, are harrowing: Each year 800 children are run over by riding mowers or small tractors; 75 people are killed, and 20,000 injured; one in five deaths involves a child.

Let’s face it, lawnmowers are dangerous tools, but they are so common that people may not treat them seriously. Underneath the mower deck is a steel cutting blade spinning at more than 2000 revolutions per minute. Depending on its length, the blade tip may be moving at 200 mph.

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, a moving lawn mower blade is powerful. “The energy transferred by a typical lawn mower blade is equivalent to being shot in the hand with a .357 magnum pistol.” That is certainly enough to mangle a hand or foot. And an injury from lawn mower blade is not neat. The blade does not make a “clean” cut, and it fills the wound with dirt, grass, and a host of other contaminants.

An injury from contacting the blade is not the only danger from a running mower. The blade speed can turn rocks, stick, or other debris into deadly projectiles. And don’t forget, the mower engine itself gets hot enough to ignite gasoline or cause third-degree burns, the most serious kind. For riding mowers, other dangers include tipping the mower over on a hill, losing control of the mower, or accidentally backing over an object or person."

~ Source ~

Vibrant Living

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Thu, 04 Jul 2013 00:54:00 +0000

I couldn't sleep last night, memories of seven years ago filled my thoughts. A precious friend wrote me as she has every year since 2006, to remember with me. Then I read through several of my previous entries, something I haven't done in a long time. Reflection is a practice I've always believed to be necessary to my healing process and also a way for me to cultivate a thankful heart even in the midst of painful circumstances.

These July posts have developed into a yearly tribute to the vibrant gift of life God has blessed our Chloe with. Instead of a morbid review of painful memories, I want it to be a celebration of the myriad of joys and triumphs we have enjoyed throughout the year...because God saw fit to spare our daughter's life seven years ago today.

I wouldn't be truthful if I neglected to tell you that my heart still catches at the thought of what my daughter has journeyed through, what she grapples with daily and what challenges will continue to face her for the rest of her life. The desire to trade places with Chloe, to take her pain as my own will never fade away, that's just my Mama heart ;). However, I praise God that old anger raises its ugly head less and less these days! One thing I've learned is I gotta be real. I can't identify with people who put on a mask and say everything is sunshine and roses. Cuz sometimes it just ain't. BUT GOD...He is the reason we still laugh, still smile, still hope, the reason we still 'are'.

Our Chloe girl has had a magnificent year once again! :). She rocked her way through 3 Camp No Limits...in Maine, Maryland and Florida, enjoying every minute of it!! The full impact that CNL has had upon our family is hard to put into words...inspiration and encouragement has filled our hearts just by rubbing shoulders with these amazing people! We have made precious lifelong friendships with people who understand with no explanation, who share victories and struggles, who laugh and cry with us, who just get it. What a blessing!!!

There have been challenges this year as well, Chloe developed a painful bursa on the end of her bone which caused her to be out of her leg off and on for weeks. So thankful for her Drs, JH and her prosthetist! No major procedures were necessary, thank you Lord!!

A new leg design (with skin to boot) brought a huge increase in Chloe's activity level and self confidence. It was a wonderful 4th grade school year and she made many sweet friends and also enjoyed learning to play the violin! :) And she is anticipating another fun filled summer!!

Chloe Abigail Schmidt, is larger than life - lives it to the fullest and has a heart brimming over with love, compassion, tenderness, generosity and kindness. Her spirit of determination, fortitude and perseverance are an inspiration to us all. People, big and small are drawn to the light that radiates from her. No, she's not perfect by any means but I am a better person because she is in my life. I am continuously convicted by her sweet uncomplaining attitude. And I will never cease to offer my profound gratitude to God my Father for giving our girl back to us, whole and perfectly wonderful :)

Thank you for remembering with me...

Her Year in pictures --

Chloe enjoying Myrtle Beach, S.C.

Enjoying the ride called life...

Zip lining at Camp No Limits...

Climbing the Rock Wall at CNL...

Tree Climbing at CNL...

Loving her buddy, Quincey...

Flying high at her 1st Gymnastics class...

She's our hero...

Spring Recital...angel girl

SWIMMING!!!!! :)

First visit away from home by herself...

My baby girl...my sunshine xo

We all adore her...

A Season for Everything

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 13:12:00 +0000

It seems so difficult to believe that it's been six years. In some ways it seems like forever, it other ways just yesterday. It is a choice for me, to remember the painful or to remember the blessings and the miracles...

Just last week while we were digging around the attic, my sweet Alex came upon an old picture of he and Chloe. It's a very special picture to me because it's the last picture taken of them before the accident. Alex didn't realize before I mentioned it that Chloe's two little perfect chubby feet were crisscrossed in the photo. I heard him sniffing and when I looked, great big old tears were rolling down his face. Oh my heart, that's all it took. Something so seemingly insignificant took us back to a place where we were sad for what had been, what our girl had to go through, what Joel and Alex have had to carry. You know what I told Alex? It's ok. It's ok and a good thing to feel that pain in your heart because someone we love dearly suffered. It's healthy to have that hit you now and again. But we don't stay there, we look up (the only place we can look)...we look unto Jesus who is the only One who makes sense out of everything! And we give thanks, we give the kind of thanks because you life itself depends on the One we give thanks to. Our Father God saved our Chloe girl's life that day, six years ago. We could have been remembering something far more painful on this day but we aren't.

It has been a roller coaster of a year for Chloe, many wonderful things and many challenging things. Last fall when school started, she began to experience severe leg pain. There is nothing like seeing her in pain that throws this Mama into a panic. We didn't know what was going on, we tried adjusting her prosthesis several times and having her out of her leg to rest. Nothing really seemed to help. We finally went to see her Ortho Dr. and discovered what I was afraid of -- a growth spurt put her bone down to the very end of her limb. Chloe was walking on zero tissue, just bone. So we knew she would have to have surgery, she's been through it once before. I hated it then, I hated it this time. But we had some time, Chloe's the toughest girl I know! She determined she was going to walk as the flower girl in my Uncle's wedding and she did AND she danced ALL NIGHT too!! :) She determined she would go to her first Camp No Limits and she DID and loved every second of it! But finally after Thanksgiving, her leg had had enough. She had an amputation revision surgery the beginning of December last year. Because she had had this surgery before and it was not a big deal, we thought this wouldn't be so bad. But it would prove to be a very difficult 3 month recovery for Chloe. The pain she endured was incredible, I didn't think my heart could take anymore. But God...who is rich in love and mercy...our gentle Healer, many many times we cried out to Him. This time period I believe Chloe truly saw God as her Father, the One she could call out to herself. I believe this has changed her forever and for good!

March saw her back in school and doing well. Being a 9 year old girl is tough, you know. It's tough when you're not worried about your prosthetic leg making you "different" from all the other girls. It's tough when you go to camp and can't swim with your leg and you have to take it off in front of everyone. It's just tough. But we hold onto the firm faith that God's plan for Chloe is unbelievably good and perfect! We get beautiful glimpses of it now and then...and it's awesome! When I look at Chloe, my heart is so full of awe and thanksgiving. This precious child has been such a gift to us, our family will never be the same. And even though there are times I struggle and would love to take away all the difficulties she faces that only she knows that no one understands...I choose to trust with my girl and for my girl. Because I know that God the Father loves Chloe much much more than I ever could (which is pretty hard to believe!!) :)

So, today -- I'm going to choose to dwell on the good, and there is so much good!! :)

Her Mama's Heart

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 01:48:00 +0000

"I know the plans I have in mind for you, declares the LORD; they are plans for peace, not disaster, to give you a future filled with hope." Jeremiah 29:11

This is the verse we have claimed for our Chloe -- I read it to her tonight as she faces surgery again tomorrow morning. We also read from a children's devotional called, Jesus Calling. It is written as God talking to us, calling to us, beckoning us to thank Him by faith for all things that He allows in our lives...even the heartaches, the scary things. Somehow the mystery of it all is that when we thank Him and lean on Him by faith, He turns the darkness into light and lifts up our faces and we see HIM. Our "yucky circumstances" don't change but WE are changed, our faith is stretched.

All week I've been trying to swallow the lump in my throat, trying not to think about the surgery, trying not to worry, trying not to ask the same ol' why questions that often plague me when it comes to my angel girl. I don't know if those questions will ever go away, they swirl around and around in my heart especially during these difficult times. I see it in her eyes...I see her struggling to trust, to believe, to have joy in the midst of it all.

The other night she was having a tough time, she found out she would miss a special school event that Alex is participating in. It unglued her and she began to cry, "it's not fair...why me? Why am I the only one who struggles?" I began to assure it that it was ok to be sad but that she was not the only one who struggles. She turned to me and asked, "what do you struggle with Mama"? It took my breath away...if she only knew the struggles of her Mama's heart. If she only knew the times I shook my fist at God in anger, demanding to know why He failed her, to know where He was when my baby got hurt. If she only knew that every time I see her struggle I beg God to let me change places with her. If she only knew that every time she is sad, every time someone makes fun of her, every time she can't do something because of leg pain, every time she just wants to be normal...her Mama's heart breaks into a million pieces from an ache that will last as long as I'm alive. But I know that God the Father knows just exactly how I feel because He looked down upon His Son in unimaginable pain even unto death on the cross. I think Father, You know, You see me.

Chloe and I have had a few long talks in the past few weeks...one night I told her of the apostle Paul and the "thorn in the flesh" that God allowed in his life. The burden Paul was entrusted with by God to bring about humility in his heart, to remind him of how very much he needed God! And God reminded me too that these things we view as "bad" are not - they are good things because they have come to us through the nail pierced hands of our all loving and faithful Father God. We don't have to feel like thanking Him, we don't have to see the goodness in surgery or leg pain to give thanks. We can simply give thanks because HE is worthy and our faith rests in Him alone, nothing else. This is the "hard eucharisteo", the hard giving thanks that we are learning. We know that God's plan for Chloe is GOOD, pure and perfect - her future is full of hope!

And so as I see her struggle to walk her path by faith, her Mama's heart is encouraged to do the same. It's constant, it's real life, it's my path. So tomorrow I will not give her over to the surgeon's hands, I will not entrust her to their care, I will not put my faith in them ~ No, my hope and my trust is in my Abba Father. Tomorrow I will lay my child into the arms of the Great Physician who loves my angel girl much more than I ever could and in doing so, is my Peace.

Missions In Action Episode 01

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 19:50:00 +0000

This is an incredible video, you must watch!!

Visit Compassion International to sponsor a child who is waiting for YOU...

PLEASE READ!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Mon, 09 May 2011 19:27:00 +0000

For your children's sake, PLEASE teach them proper safety measures when it comes to lawn mowers. And please pass it on to your friends and family.

I wish with all my heart someone would have shared this warning with us.

This July marks the 5 year anniversary of Chloe's accident and amputation...think about it...

**************************

"The No. 1 advice to parents is: Treat the lawn mower as hazardous equipment, not a toy. You don't let a child play with an electric saw, and that's exactly what a lawn mower is," Carol Gentry, pediatric OR nurse manager, said in a prepared statement.

***************************

"Lawn mower-related injuries account for more than 51% of traumatic amputations among children. Major limb loss is most commonly caused by lawn mowers for children under the age of 10.

“We want to see the number of accidents greatly reduced by increasing public awareness of lawn mower safety,” Kendra Calhoun, president and chief executive officer of the Amputee Coalition, stated in a press release. “Amputations from lawn mower accidents are among the most preventable. By following common-sense safety rules, you can prevent lawn mower injuries to yourself and others.”

The Amputee Coalition offers these safety guidelines:

Never allow children to play on a lawn mower, even if it is turned off;
Never allow a child to ride on a riding lawn mower with you;
Keep your children indoors and do not allow other children to play nearby while you are mowing; and
Children should be 12 years of age or older before operating any lawn mower and at least 16 years old to operate a riding mower.

Before Mowing:

Pick up stones, toys and debris from the lawn to prevent injuries from flying objects;
Wear shoes, not sandals;
Use eye and hearing protection;
Start and refuel mowers outdoors, never in a garage;
Refuel with the motor turned off and cool; and
Have an adult adjust blade settings.

While Mowing:

Only use mowers with automatic shutdown abilities; and
Do not mow in reverse unless necessary.

After Mowing:

Wait for blades to stop completely before removing the grass catcher, unclogging the discharge chute, or crossing gravel roads."

~Source~

***************************

"More Than 600 Children Undergo Mower-Related Amputations Each Year...

More attention needs to be paid to lawn mower safety this year, according to the Amputee Coalition of America. Needless limb loss accidents can be prevented by taking simple commonsense precautions.

Depending on where you live in the U.S., you may mow your lawn 30 times or more this year. Every time you start your mower, you are dealing with a dangerous and potentially deadly piece of equipment. By following just a few safety measures before you mow, you can avoid life-altering accidents.

Lawn mower accidents cause serious injuries to legs, arms, fingers, toes or other body parts. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 200,000 people – around 16,000 of them under age 19 – were treated for lawn mower-related injuries in 2007.

More than 600 children undergo amputations each year as the result of lawn mower-related injuries. For children under age 10, major limb loss is most commonly caused by lawn mowers."

~Source~

News Article: "A Wisconsin family will mark a life-changing anniversary today. On July 11, 2009, two-year-old Brandon Rudie was severely injured after his father accidentally backed over him with a riding lawn mower. Today, after five facial surgeries, Brandon is an energetic three-year-old, but his recovery is ongoing."

News Article: "AKRON, Ohio -- Roxy Kimberlin describes herself as an overprotective mother, the one her friends make fun of. But even her attentiveness wasn't enough to protect her son, Conner, from a lawn mower accident that nearly amputated his leg a little more than a year ago."

{ Sunflowers }

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Sat, 07 May 2011 11:31:00 +0000

Last fall I fell in love with all the gorgeous Sunflowers blooming all over the countryside in our area. Day after day their beautiful faces lifted and sought out the sun...

It reminded me of how I need to be soaking up The Son!

Figuring Life Out - One Thousand Gifts

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Sun, 30 Jan 2011 20:40:00 +0000

Little Star Book Review

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Fri, 17 Dec 2010 20:36:00 +0000

I recently had the privilege of reading a delightful new children's book called, Little Star. This is the second book by Anthony DeStefano that I've been able to receive and review. I loved the first book, This Little Prayer of Mine and Little Star is just as wonderful! I read it to my little 5 year old nephew and he loved it as did I. The illustrations are simply beautiful and are a perfect complement to this tender Christmas story, told from the Little Star's point of view.

I am always looking for children's books that have deep spiritual truths tucked into an engaging story...Little Star is exactly that.

"Little Star knew that Jesus could have chosen to be born in a palace, surrounded by riches, but instead, He had humbled Himself to be born in a stable. He didn't want to be rich and important. He wanted to be like the poorest of the poor. Jesus wanted to be born little to show all the people of the world that He loved them, no matter how small or poor they were."

If you are looking for that last little gift for your children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews...those special little ones in your lives then consider picking up a copy of Little Star for them! You won't be disappointed! :)

A special thanks to Anthony for again allowing me the blessing of reading your wonderful books to the little ones in my life!

Chloe turns 7!! :)

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Sun, 25 Jul 2010 13:03:00 +0000

My baby girl turned 7...where did time go?? She is such a blessing to our family. Her smile lights up the room and her laughter is contagious! I don't know what we'd be without you, "CoCo"!! Happy 7th Birthday, baby...we love you with all our hearts!!! xoxo

For her Bday, she decided she wanted to get her ears pierced...

She was so brave...a few tears were shed

But ice cream at Friendlies cures anything!!!! :D

Sight and Sound

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 11:25:00 +0000

While my lovely in-laws were in town, we were privileged to see the play Joseph at the Sight and Sound Theater. It was AWESOME. It was the first time Joel and I had ever been and wow, was it incredible!! We had such a fun time with our family and also our church young couples group! :)

I don't know if we have any pictures with just us "adults"...what a great one!!

Aren't they cute??!!

What can I say?? He's the love of my life...

Fun at the Stream

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 11:39:00 +0000

Joel's parents came down from Ontario for a visit...we had such a great time, as usual! They got to spend a whole week with us and there was lots of fun things going on. This day we took them to our favorite spot down at the stream...

My Mom in law had some great shots she shared with me...

They were beyond HAPPY when I let them get IN the stream...

End of School Year

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 11:32:00 +0000

One of my favorite blessings of not working the past few months has been to be available to go to the special end of year school events for the cherubs. Joel and I both got to go to Alex's end of the year picnic...it was so fun to spend that time with him!!

Later in the week, I was able to go to Chloe's end of year picnic! I had such a blast watching her play her games and be with her special friends. I am one blessed Mama...

My adorable nephews

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 11:21:00 +0000

My sister made me an Auntie for the 6th time this April when Kennedy Jay was born! I gotta tell you, being an Aunt is like the coolest 'job' EVER. You get to spoil them rotten, love on them and when they're cranky you get to give them back to their Mama! I L.O.V.E being an Auntie...actually, Abraham calls me KK and I kinda dig that. ;D

So, after Kennedy was born I pretty much begged my sister to let me do a 'photo shoot' of the boys...it was super fun! I love how they turned out --

Field Day

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 11:11:00 +0000

I was so excited to be able to go and see the cherubs have fun on their Field Day this year!

They had a beautiful day filled with fun...

Grateful Reflection

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Sat, 03 Jul 2010 18:27:00 +0000

When the weather begins to warm and the grass grows long and green...I know what's coming after. Pretty soon the sound of lawnmowers fills the air. And while I have always loved the smell of fresh cut grass, it's just not the same anymore. I try very hard not to cringe when I hear and smell those first sounds and smells of summer. Each year it gets a little bit easier to enter a new summer season.

But once July comes around, the memories of July 3rd, 2006 become crystal clear in my mind. It has become very therapeutic for me to take time and sit down and write what comes to me about the anniversary of Chloe's accident. I hope one day to print these posts out and give them to Chloe, prayerfully they encourage her heart and tell her how very very much her Mama loves her as well as the rest of the family...and anyone that has come in contact with her for that matter! :)

This year has been very challenging for Chloe - Following a great summer, she began to have severe leg pain and was unable to walk in her prosthetic leg. To this day we are not sure what happened but her Pediatrician at the time believed she had a bone infection. Chloe spent the first week of 1st grade in the hospital. This was quite traumatic for Chloe and it brought back many bad memories for her and many fears she has about pain, needles, medicine, etc.

I really really struggled through this situation because later on, through her amazing Orthopedic Doc, Dr. Leet - we would find out that it was indeed not an infection! And so began my questioning, self doubt and guilt...I had made the wrong decision, believed the wrong person and as a result put my baby through unnecessary pain and trauma. If I can be quite honest, I have no earthly idea why God allowed that to happen, why He didn't intervene and stop this from happening. Why did Chloe have to miss out of all the exciting firsts of 1st grade and go through all this pain? My question for God was WHY? Hasn't she been through enough??

And all of a sudden, I was right back to where I was 4 years ago when Chloe's accident first happened. Angry, yes. Scared, yes. Confused, heck yah. Helpless, that too. BUT GOD. My Father God, who is rich in mercy and love has a perfect plan for Chloe, a plan for her good and to give her a good future and a hope. So I clung to that Truth desperately by faith and in the dark when nothing made sense to me at all. Because I believe, that I believe, that I believe that God is good, ALL the time and He loves my girl much more than I ever could.

So after a few weeks off of school, a few weeks of going to school and riding in the wheelchair...Chloe got back to herself once again. And we all took a deep breath!! One of the things I am so thankful for this year was her 1st grade teacher, Mrs. Strauss. I'm telling you, this lady was a gift straight from God this year! Every day she went above and beyond for Chloe and for us...at the end of the year, she told me that Chloe was an inspiration to her. Wow! Chloe also made some really sweet friends in class this year who (when she was in the wheelchair) took turns spending their recess inside with her coloring, playing games, etc.

However, she took quite a few 'hits' on the bus from some insensitive kids. For the first time, someone made fun of the scar on her arm. She came home devastated. I told her, "Girl, be proud of those scars...they are your warrior marks! You survived something not many could". (and no, I did not hunt that insensitive child down and chew her a new one...I restrained myself!!) ;) We often tell Chloe that we are ALL different in some way or another but that is what makes us special, unique. But her leg is not WHO she is...she is so much more than her leg!

There have been many great moments this year for Chloe!! We've had some fun hikes on the trail, the biggest blizzard we've ever seen, a new cousin who joined the family, a zoo field trip that I got to join her on, a special visit with her Grandparents, a combined Bday party with her brother, a new hamster, a new bike with NO training wheels... Coming soon this month are swimming lessons for her, she is thrilled!! Chloe has also grown 1/2 an inch since her last prosthetic check up so they are ordering new parts, new sleeves and new sleeve covers. What a blessing Real Life Prosthetics has been to us, and it's right in our own backyard!! Our list of wonderful fun times and things we are thankful for goes on and on, they outweigh the not-so-great list.

We've come along way in 4 years...all the way God has led us and shown Himself faithful and loving. Chloe is learning to monitor herself, to take responsibility and is becoming more aware of how she feels and how to take it easy on her body. She is the toughest little person I've ever met and she continues to amaze us and inspire us...Chloe, you are our HERO and we love you so much! Thank you God for placing Chloe in our family, we are forever better because of her. We can't wait to see all the good things you have in store for her!!

I just love pictues. They can tell the story so much better than I can.

Here is Chloe's year ~

Hiking in the woods and finding treasures

Chloe with her new nephew, Kennedy

Chloe with her wonderful teacher, Mrs. Strauss and 1st grade friends

Chloe with her buddy, Quincey

2010 Easter Family Picture

Chloe and her BFF, Sydney...they've been friends since Kindergarten.

End of Year 1st grade picnic

~ 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 ~

"Therefore we do not lose heart.

Though outwardly we are wasting away,

yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.

For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us

an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen.

For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal". (NIV)

Click on the links below to read the past years of reflecting...

July 3, 2007 - A Time to Remember

July 3, 2008 - You Just Never Know

July 3, 2009 - Looking Back

and Chloe's Story

Use EXTREME Caution

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 13:42:00 +0000

Many of you may know but some may not our sweet Chloe's story. Click here to read why these 2 articles touch so close to home for me. I beg you to read these articles, seriously consider these recommendations and take action.

I write this post because I feel compelled to warn others of the danger of allowing children remotely near lawn mowers of any kind. It's not a fun family thing to do, it highly dangerous and has such a great potential to do severe damage.

For your children's sake, please teach them proper safety measures when it comes to lawn mowers. And pass it on to your friends and family. I wish with all my heart someone would have shared this information with us. Tomorrow marks the 4 year anniversary of Chloe's accident and amputation...think about it...

"The power lawn mower is one of the most dangerous tools around the home. Each year, approximately 68,000 persons with injuries caused by power mowers were treated in emergency departments. More than 9,000 of the people hurt were younger than 18 years. Older children and adolescents were most often hurt while cutting lawns as chores or as a way to earn money.

Lawn mower injuries include deep cuts, loss of fingers and toes, broken and dislocated bones, burns, and eye and other injuries. Some injuries are very serious. Both users of mowers and those who are nearby can be hurt.

To prevent lawn mower injuries to children, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the following:

Try to use a mower with a control that stops the mower from moving forward if the handle is let go.

Children younger than 16 years should not be allowed to use ride-on mowers. Children younger than 12 years should not use walk-behind mowers.

Make sure that sturdy shoes (not sandals or sneakers) are worn while mowing.

Prevent injuries from flying objects, such as stones or toys, by picking up objects from the lawn before mowing begins. Use a collection bag for grass clippings or a plate that covers the opening where cut grass is released. Have anyone who uses a mower wear hearing and eye protection.

** Make sure that children are indoors or at a safe distance well away from the area that you plan to mow **

Start and refuel mowers outdoors, not in a garage or shed. Mowers should be refueled with the motor turned off and cool.

Make sure that blade settings (to set the wheel height or dislodge debris) are done by an adult, with the mower off and the spark plug removed or disconnected.

** Do not pull the mower backward or mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary, and carefully look for children behind you when you mow in reverse **

Always turn off the mower and wait for the blades to stop completely before removing the grass catcher, unclogging the discharge chute, or crossing gravel paths, roads, or other areas.

** Do not allow children to ride as passengers on ride-on mowers **

Lawn mower-related injuries to children are relatively common and can result in severe injury or death. Many amputations during childhood are caused by power mowers. Pediatricians have an important role as advocates and educators to promote the prevention of these injuries.

Each year in the United States, approximately 9,400 children younger than 18 years receive emergency care for lawn mower-related injuries. Although most of these injuries occur to older children and adolescents, about one fourth are to children younger than 5 years. Ride-on mowers and other power mowers account for 21% and 23% of pediatric mower-related injuries, respectively. More than 7% of pediatric mower-related injuries require hospitalization, which is approximately twice the hospitalization rate for consumer product-related injuries overall. Amputations and avulsions account for 7% of pediatric mower-related injuries. Power lawn mowers caused 22% of the amputation injuries among children admitted to one regional level 1 trauma center. Additional details regarding pediatric lawn mower-related injuries are available in the technical report available online.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Young children must not be allowed to play in or be adjacent to areas where lawn mowers are being used. ** Children younger than 6 years should be kept indoors during mowing **

Children must not be allowed to ride as passengers on mowers or to be towed behind mowers in carts or trailers. They should not be permitted to play on or around the mower when it is in use or in storage.

Children should not operate lawn mowers until they have displayed the necessary levels of judgment, strength, coordination, and maturity. They should also be educated in mower operation and safety and be supervised by an adult before they are allowed to operate a mower by themselves. Most children will not be ready to operate a walk-behind power mower or hand mower until at least 12 years of age or a ride-on mower until at least 16 years of age."

Committee on Injury and Poison Prevention, 2000-2001

SOURCE

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"With spring around the corner, it will soon be time to trim the lawn, but spring also marks the onset of what Johns Hopkins Children’s Center (where Chloe was treated) specialists call lawnmower injury season. Lawnmowers can cause devastating injuries in children and are the leading cause of amputations in teens, Hopkins Children’s experts warn.

'Every spring and summer we see children so badly injured by lawnmowers that they need amputation or extensive reconstructive surgery,' said Rick Redett, M.D., director of reconstructive and plastic surgery at Hopkins Children’s, Maryland’s designated pediatric trauma center where the most severe cases are treated.

Many more children with less serious injuries end up in local emergency departments, Redett said.

Each year, lawnmower accidents send 9,400 U.S. children to the hospital, causing injuries more severe than any other tool or device, research shows. The most common injuries are lacerations, fractures and amputations of the fingers, hands, toes, feet and legs."

**Most injuries occur when a person operating a ride-on mower is unaware that a child is behind the mower and shifts into reverse, backing over the child.**

Of the lawnmower accidents seen among patients at Hopkins Children’s between 2000 and 2006, 95 percent led to amputations and required reconstructive surgery.

Hopkins Children’s experts offer the following prevention tips:

Keep children under 6 years old indoors while a power mower is in operation.

Don’t allow a child under 12 to use a walk-behind mower.

Keep children under 16 off ride-on mowers, even with a parent.

If you are mowing and see a child running toward you, turn off the mower immediately. Children can fall and slip into the blade, especially if the grass is wet.

Wear protective goggles and close-toed shoes when operating a mower or when near one.

Before mowing, clean the lawn of debris such as sticks and stones, which may get caught in the blades and propelled out.

If injury occurs, call 911 right away and apply pressure to the wound to stop bleeding while you await an ambulance.

Buy mowers with a no-reverse safety feature that requires the operator to turn the mower around instead of shifting into reverse.

SOURCE

Hope

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 01:23:00 +0000

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Wow!!! Talk about perseverance and drive...that's my hope for Chloe. What more can I say?

Simple

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Sat, 22 May 2010 20:11:00 +0000