The Macs » Blog

So, this week was supposed to be more exciting…I know.
I decided to take a little trip with my hubby 
instead of staying home to write blog posts. 🙂
He had to go to Manhattan (Kansas not New York) 
for a class and I decided to go along.
It was just us…not even Levi this time.
When we got to Manhattan on Tuesday we met my brother 
for lunch at our favorite lunch spot.
We used to eat here all the time.
It was just as good as I remembered.
Owen gave us a tour of his fraternity before heading back to his classes.
I tried to get him to skip class to hang out with me, 
but he is too much like his sister and said he had to go.
Joel tried to remind him that the difference between 
an A and a B in college is a whole lot of fun.
He always tried to tell me that in college too.
I got the A’s. He had a lot of fun. 🙂
How did my baby brother get big enough to be in college?
Joel had to go to his class too.
Which is funny because I’m pretty sure Joel skipped 
more classes in college than he went to.
So, the rest of the day I spent checking out Manhattan and shopping a little.
Manhattan has changed so much since we were in college.
After I got tired of shopping I went to our hotel until Joel was done with his class.
I sat on the comfy bed, watched TV and ate Chipotle all by myself.
It was lovely.
The next morning Joel had to go back for class.
I stayed in the hotel and just relaxed and caught up on my Bible study.
Can you tell that this trip was all about class for Joel…
and all about relaxing and eating for me??
When Joel was done with his class we went to another favorite lunch spot.
They have the yummiest burgers and fries.
I was glad to have some company again too!
Before going home we drove by our first apartment.
It was a one bedroom teeny-tiny apartment.
We both couldn’t even fit in the kitchen at the same time.
But we thought it was great!
This was our little balcony.
So many memories.
We were talking about how much we miss those first two years we were newly married and finishing college. Life was so simple back then. We hadn’t really faced anything difficult. We spend tons of time just hanging out and talking. Our schedules were so flexible. We didn’t have very much money and our apartment was nothing special, but we didn’t care. Some days I would do anything to go back to those days of no worries.
Tonight in our small group we are talking about growth in our life as a Christian. Growth is a process. Our book says becoming a Christian begins a lifelong adventure of knowing God better and loving Him more. I love that. And while those college days seem so easy and carefree, I see now how they were just part of our journey. God was using those days to ground us for what was ahead. I had no idea back then that He would choose to allow heartache and tragedy in my life to mold me and change me. Romans 5:3 says, “we glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” The suffering I have faced doesn’t compare to what Paul was facing when he wrote these words. It doesn’t compare to what many are facing around the world today. And I can’t honestly say that I am at the point where I can say I glory in my suffering. But I do know that God has used and continues to use Cora’s death to produce perseverance and character and hope in my life. He is changing me. And for that I am thankful.    
So, today I am thankful for time away with my hubby.
I am thankful to be home playing blocks with Levi this morning.
I am thankful for the reminder of God’s work in my life.
And I am thankful that Joel and I are not the same people we once were.
He is changing us.
I pray that I would always be open to His changing work in my life.
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  • Rachel - Hello! I’m a long time stalker… I live in VA but went to KSU and So Long is my favorite meal on the planet. I love it so much and your pictures are making me salivate!ReplyCancel

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  • A - so glad for your time with joel 🙂 it is really eye-opening to reflect on where God has taken me thoughout my life, the last 3-4 years especially!ReplyCancel

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  • ej236 - hello! I’m also a long time stalker haha. I went to KSU but now live in GA. You just had to go ahead and post pictures of the 2 best places to eat in Manhattan didnt’ you 🙂 hehe. I miss that place so much and would do anything to go back for a while! Such a fun, cute little town! (I think we may have lived in the same dorm together! Small world sometimes!)ReplyCancel

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  • Beki - TheRustedChain - Jess this is so sweet!

    Back before I was married, I worked for a restaurant as a corporate trainer and they told me I was going to Manhattan to open a new location. I was SOOO excited!! – Until the day before I left and they mentioned that it was Manhattan Kansas. Sadness. I had no idea there even WAS a Manhattan Kansas. *sigh* I had big dreams of going to New York.

    I’m glad you and Joel had a nice time!ReplyCancel

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  • the breedens - You really brought back memories for me today. My husband and I went to KSU, probably about the same time as you, got married while we were there and had our first apartment together there. We also love So Long Saloon!ReplyCancel

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  • The Moffats - So fun to take a little trip down memory lane. Seems like so long ago and yesterday at the same time. Glad you guys were able to take a little time together. And Owen…Joel is right about getting the B’s…and what’s with the hair, dude??? Love you ALL.ReplyCancel

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  • Jessie - Yummmm! Love So Long! We love to reminise everytime we’re back in manhappiness! Life was so much more simple then!ReplyCancel

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  • The Farmers - So happy you two had some time away. It’s always nice to go back and remember the good ol days. I loved our little apartment we had in College. I remember when we moved to a bigger place my husband ran to me in excitement that he had to change plugs while vacuuming, that never happened in our first little home.ReplyCancel

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  • Amanda - This comment has been removed by the author.ReplyCancel

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  • Amanda - HOW DARE YOU post pictures of these 2 eating places – I think you are just TRYING to make me jealous, huh??? Rock-a-Belly was our very first date!!! And So Long – oh my, so many memories and lunches there. I need 2 days in Manhattan to just go from restaurant to restaurant that I love so much. Can you believe I didn’t even like Chipotle back then? HAHA! But now Chipotle in a hotel room by yourself – that sounds heavenly.

    SO glad you got to get away and reflect on where God has brought you. There’s just something about going back to that town that just makes all those memories of the simple days come back. Will you just PLEASE take us next time???ReplyCancel

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  • Stef - looks like a fun trip for the two of you! Thanks for taking us down memory lane with you 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • anne - Well, that made me a little “home-sick.” 🙂 I grew up in Wichita and my grandparents were in Manhatten. Very fun to see all those familiar places. I’m in CO now and don’t get back to KS much anymore. So glad you had a great weekend!ReplyCancel

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  • Gail - Ah…it was soo sad to miss seeing you. I would have loved to have caught up with you at So Long–love that place. I’m glad we didn’t try, though, cause our Levi got worse last night and is pretty miserable–happy to keep those germs away from your sweet family! Miss and love you guys–GailReplyCancel

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  • Brandon - My home town is Manhattan! Your pictures are making me miss ‘home’. And my mama!ReplyCancel

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  • Carmen - mmmm…you hit two of the best joints in town! i remember your first little apartment! you guys had tony and i over for dinner once (pretty sure we were still just dating) and i thought you had the cutest place with stylish mix and match colored plates. 🙂
    Glad you had a refreshing trip!ReplyCancel

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  • Lindsay - Good for you! Truthfully that is my idea of a great getaway. Something lowkey and familiar where I could just relax, read, blog, SLEEP and EAT!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Mindy Harris - honey you’re the next beth moore! i just love all your insights. on another note, i am SO JEALOUS of your weekend. being a k-stat alum those were my favorite eating places, too. and i’d love nothing more than to just sleep in a hotel.
    and sleep.
    and sleep.
    zzzzz….ReplyCancel

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  • Kristin - So fun! I spent 5 wonderful years in Manhattan while going to KSU, and I sure miss it sometimes. Seeing the burger and fries makes me hungry! So Long Saloon does have the best food. It’s our favorite place to go when we visit. 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Paige - It is crazy how small of a world it is. Not only is my family huge K-State people, we are also a huge FH family too. My sister is dating a FH man and my cousin is in FH, and my dad, brother, and uncles were in FH. Oh, and being in a small town, I love that you hit all my favorite places in Manhattan while you were in town.ReplyCancel

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  • Julie - Jess, I’m so glad you decided to go. Looks like you thoroughly enjoyed yourself. 🙂 However, I was wondering why you didn’t tour Boyd Hall and take a picture of your favorite dorm room while you were there? You know, the one with the massive storage closet that you shared with the coolest roommate ever? I think it was down the hall from two girls who always ordered pokie sticks (or whatever they were called) and did yoga in private?? hehehehehe. Oh the memories . . . love you.

    Thanks for sharing your thoughts and insights too. You are always encouraging.ReplyCancel

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  • Kristy - I got so excited to see your post about Manhattan. We moved to Manhattan in June after living in Wichita for 2 years. We will have to go and try the places you mentioned. Always looking for something new. Glad you had a fun getaway with Joel.ReplyCancel

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  • Jessica Johnson - Hi there!

    I’m a fairly new reader and I love your sweet words. I’m thankful for the reminder of God plan for us in suffering. And His desire to see us change. Our suffering is never in vain but draws us closer to Him and makes us more like His Son.

    Also, glad you had some fun time away with your husband. So important, right? 🙂

    God Bless you, Jess!ReplyCancel

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  • Ellen Grant - We recently went back to our first (teeny-tiny house) and I remember feeling so cramped there and I couldn’t WAIT to get out! ha! But now, I look back at those memories and I am SO thankful. I was blessed and didn’t even know it. Sometimes it’s scary to think about how uncertain the future is. We don’t have a single hope for anything but in knowing Christ and His redemption! Your blog and story has been such a blessing to me. I am trying so hard not to take anything else for granted!!ReplyCancel

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  • Kimberly - It’s so nice to get away, relax & have some alone time with your hubby. Getting away always makes me appreciate home more too! Thanks for sharing!ReplyCancel

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  • Jodee - What a fun and relaxing getaway with your hubby! I met my husband in Manhattan at the Country Stampede in 1999!ReplyCancel

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  • TheHappyNeills - We heart FH! My dad and twin brother and little brother were all in FH!ReplyCancel

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  • Christina - That is a really beautiful and profound post…your time away together looks like just what you needed. Thank you for sharing your reflections with us…they are so very appreciated. You touch more people than you know.ReplyCancel

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  • Erica - AWWW so many memories with these pictures. I’m glad you could get away and rest a bit in a place with so many fun memories. We too talk about those great days when we were newly married.

    …..and now I’m completely craving an amazing burger.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Aw, I love that your brother has a sweet picture of Cora in his room (at least, I think I am seeing that correctly).ReplyCancel

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  • Nancy - So glad you had a good time with your hubby, good food & got to see your brother!ReplyCancel

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  • Samantha - I LOVE SO LONG!!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Carpenter's - Oh the relaxation was delicious as well as the food 🙂 Next time treat your husband to 4 Olives a romantic evening for the two of you 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Laura - My wife reads your blog, but I happened to see a KSU themed post and read with interest. We live in Michigan, however I went to KSU (grew up in Wichita). I lived right across the road from Farmhouse Frat. Brings back memories. My buddies and I used to eat at a little hole-in-the wall where the served thin, greasy hamburgers. Wish I could remember the name. Anyway, thanks for the memories.ReplyCancel

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  • The Koehns - Rock-a-Belly is one of my favorite places, too! When my husband and I went to K-State, we used to have “Rock-a-Belly Thursdays” with another couple. It was so much fun out on their back patio. They have really yummy hummus, too! Looks like you guys had a great trip! 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Amy - Manhattan is my hometown (live in El Dorado KS now) and So Long and Rock a Belly are 2 of my faves as well!! Glad you enjoyed some alone time in Manhappiness!!!ReplyCancel

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…following a Sunday afternoon nap.
I woke up from my Sunday afternoon nap to find Joel like this. Poor guy. I had to laugh because Joel hates this chair. It doesn’t recline and he says it is the worst chair for napping. You can’t get comfy and you always wake up with a crook in your neck.
I like it because it is pretty but apparently I didn’t take napping into consideration when making this purchase. We do have a really comfy couch that is perfect for napping…but I was hogging it. I let Joel have it after I finished taking his picture. 🙂
Happy Monday!
Hope you had a restful weekend.
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  • Amanda - haha, so funny! Lesson learned – do a “test nap” in any piece of furniture before purchasing. Poor Joel – hope his neck didn’t hurt too bad.ReplyCancel

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  • Leslie - Cute shot! Naps? Levi must have been napping, too? Lucky you!ReplyCancel

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  • Sarah - Poor Joel. It was nice of you to let him have the couch. Nothing beats a Sunday afternoon nap!ReplyCancel

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  • Heather | Cookie Mondays - HAHAHAHA!!!ReplyCancel

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  • marietta - Funny…I was thinking how uncomfortable he looked, and that a recliner mght have been better for a nap.Then I read your post and thought exactly…:) you’re too cute!!ReplyCancel

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  • Danielle H. - Hahahahahahaha – does he know you put this on your blog? Too funny – poor guy!ReplyCancel

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  • Amber - I can see why you would have a sore neck 🙂 I LOVE the quilt!!!! Did you make it?ReplyCancel

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  • Stef - these are awesome pictures! I laid down yesterday and slept 4 hours, while my husband played in the backyard with our kids. Delightful 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • deyoungsters - this is funny 🙂 our couch is horrible for napping and you can be sure we will be taking “test naps” before all future furniture purchases! I’m with you though… I often pick things because they are pretty 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Team - dhgasthReplyCancel

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  • The Perfect Trio - we have a chair similar to that one! my hubs hates it as well. 6 out of 7 days you can find it loaded with clean laundry…no one likes to sit in it. but, it sure is pretty!ReplyCancel

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  • Martha - Oh this post made me laugh out loud! We also have a leather chair that is horrible for napping… and my husband complains about it all the time! I loved the first comment about “test napping” – what a wonderful idea!ReplyCancel

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I know it has been quiet around here. I feel like I should apologize, but that is just part of real life…right? Levi and I have been busy. There was lots of catching up to do after being snowed in and confined to the house because of RSV. So, just a few random pictures today and some answers to your questions from the Valentine Party post…

* * * * * * * 
Levi is loving spaghetti lately. It is so funny to watch him gobble it down. 
The mess he makes in the process is not so fun.
I’m pretty sure this spaghetti eating baby went straight to the bathtub. 
* * * * * * * 

Uncle James (Joel’s brother) was visiting from China over his break for Chinese New Year. It was so great to have him home and spend some time with him.

Levi loved playing with Uncle James and leading him all around the house. James is back in China teaching now…we miss him already! Thank goodness for iChat!
* * * * * * *
Levi and I spent lots of time on this chair last week during his breathing treatments.
I loaded him up with his favorite books and toys. It is hard to keep a one year old busy and those breathing treatments seem SO long.
But by the end of the week it was funny how he seemed to know the routine. He didn’t even seem to mind the breathing treatments too much except for the silly fish mask. He didn’t want any part of that thing being on his face…he only wanted to play with it.
Four times a day I spent some quality time with my little man. We read, we sang, and we played with his toys. And we were so thankful that those breathing treatments worked. We were praying for a healthy baby boy with no trips to the hospital!
* * * * * * *
A few answers to your questions…

Table & Chairs
The table is actually two tables pushed together from Walmart. They are 4-foot Fold-in-Half Tables by Mainstays. I couldn’t find them online, but I just recently got them at Walmart. The three colorful chairs I have collected from several different local antique stores. The rest of the wooden chairs were borrowed from my mom.

Chalkboard
The chalkboard is a 4 x 8 masonite board that I painted with magnetic paint and chalkboard paint. My very handy brother framed it for me. Here is a great tutorial for a DIY ginormous chalkboard.
Levi’s Clothes
I get a ton of his clothes from Old Navy, some from Gap, and some from Target. I usually find the best deals at Old Navy though.
Have a Ball Valentines
I found the balls at Dollar Tree. They were three for a dollar. I pretty much copied everything from here.
My Camera
I have a Canon 50D. I use both a Canon 50mm f/1.4 lens and a Tamron 28-75 f/2.8 lens. I have had my Canon since last May and love it. I have no photographer advice for you because I am not one! 🙂 I love taking pictures to capture the everyday moments with my family. 
If you have sent me an e-mail in the last month I am SO sorry for my slow response. I am going to work on answering e-mails this weekend, so hopefully you will hear from me soon! 🙂
Next week should be much more exciting around here. See you Monday!
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  • Taking Heart - Sweet pictures… he is starting to thin out in his face and look like a mini little boy… specially with his hair cut! So cute! I remember when my boys started to change… I always had their poochy tummies to remind me of the baby days!ReplyCancel

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  • Beki - TheRustedChain - I am so happy to see Levi with a dirty face. I was starting to get a bad mom complex. 🙂

    I hope he’s back to 100% soon!ReplyCancel

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  • Rich and Carolyn Dewey - Those spaghetti photos brought back happy-smile memories for this mom/grandma. Our son, who shall remain nameless(!) LOVED his “sketti” too. He usually ended up his meal with the bowl on top of his head and a hand-through-the-hair rub. Definitely a trip to the tub followed!

    Levi is precious! Love his photos…ReplyCancel

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  • Jody - Glad that Levi is feeling better!

    I had been searching for a quilt to make to keep for myself to use in my living room. It’s one of the many rooms in our house not yet insulated (our house is 109). I’ve made a disappearing nine patch for my niece and a huge baby bricks for my mom & stepdad. I couldn’t find a pattern I liked and I just kept coming back to the picture of Levi as a newborn on his quilt. So I have decided to pattern my quilt after his. Of course, mine isn’t going to have the precious meaning behind it.

    And we have the same camera! I upgraded from my Rebel about two years ago. Of course, I’m already itching to upgrade again, but maybe I’ll settle on a new lense. I do have a lot of material to buy since I really don’t have a stash. Have a wonderful weekend!ReplyCancel

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  • The Schilling's from Cimarron - Jess,

    Loved the pics! poor babe had RSV! of course we know that is NO FUN! It was great to see pics of James too!glad he is diong good also! Miss you lots! take care! And I am pretty sure we have the EXACT same spaghetti picture of Jaylee! ahahaReplyCancel

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  • Sarah - So glad Levi is feeling better!ReplyCancel

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  • Amanda @ DAES of Our Lives - Oh my goodness! I cannot tell you how much I love the quilt! And how on earth do you keep a white chair white with that busy little boy?!ReplyCancel

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  • Lindsay - I loved this post – I always like to read and blog about those everyday moments that are harder to remember the older they grow!

    I’m so glad he bounced back from RSV. Our son got that over Thanksgiving and wasn’t fully well again until past Christmas. It is SCARY!ReplyCancel

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  • Julie B. - Just some unsolicited advice on the breathing treatments; from someone who has given thousands of them:

    Ask Levi’s pediatrician if he is ok to move to inhalers through a “spacer”. They give you a neat little plastic ‘thing’ that ‘holds’ the inhaler meds while the child takes 6-7 normal breaths through the end made like a mask. It is 6-7 breaths of time instead of 20 minutes for a neb treatment and you lose NONE of the medicine in your living room! My asthmatic 8 year old started using inhaler xopenex and pulmicort at 18 months and did SUPER with it!! 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • missy - More unsolicited breathing treatment advice! When my son was little we would let him wear a fireman’s hat while he wore his mask – he thought he looked just like a grown up firefighter when they wear their oxygen masks! It made the treatments so much easier and he sure looked cute while he was doing them!ReplyCancel

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  • Sarah - I have a question about the tables 🙂 The tables are short, where did you find short tables? I went to walmart and they only carry tall tables. What’s the secret to getting them child’s height? Thanks!

    travnsar@gmail.com

    Sarah WesemanReplyCancel

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  • Melissa Joy - Hah! A few months late, but I finally just found this! Exactly what I am looking for. Thank you for sharing about the chalk board, Jess!ReplyCancel

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  • How to Make a Giant Magnetic Chalkboard | The Turquoise Home - […] I hadn’t read really carefully, I would have missed that Jess’s chalkboard is actually magnetic, too! What an awesome idea. […]ReplyCancel

Between facing some hard anniversaries again
and Levi having RSV last week {yuck, I know}
we thought we needed to start this week off with a party.
Yesterday we invited all of Levi’s cousins over for a Valentine Party.
We set up a little table for the eight cousins who are all five and under.
Most of the decorations I re-used from Joel’s party this summer.
I made my own version of the heart strings garland.
The cute mailboxes were in the dollar bin at Target.
They were definitely the hit of the party.
And Levi passed out the cute have a ball valentines to his cousins.
The moms and grandmas sat leisurely for hours
sat for five seconds at the grown-up table.
Excuse the wrinkly tablecloth…I am not a fan of ironing. 🙂
Before the party Levi opened up his valentine from his daddy and mama.
Red Converse shoes…I found them on clearance at Target.
He is loving shoes right now. It is so cute.
Levi was very stylin’ for the party in his red shoes…at least his mama thought so.
My sister-in-law made cocoa pancakes with whipped cream for the kids.
What more do you need when you have chocolate pancakes?
There was lots of yummy food for the grown-ups too.
After the grown-ups sat for a few minutes and tried to enjoy our food…
it was FINALLY time to pass out valentines.
The best part.
Even Levi liked putting his valentines in his mailbox.
He thought he was such a big boy with all his cousins.
Levi and his sweet cousins…only Cora is missing!
The big cousins made Megan’s heart craft.
I cut out all the big hearts.
Then we punched the little hearts out with a Creative Memories heart punch.
The kids thought it was great!
And they all turned out so pretty.
The girls’ hearts were very girly of course…only pink and purple!
After the party Levi and I spent some much needed time outside.
We hadn’t been out at all last week because of all the snow and Levi being sick.
It was beautiful…and the snow is finally melting.
{Levi, don’t put rocks in your mouth!}
Levi broke in his new valentine shoes.
When dad got home Levi even got a wagon ride.
What a fun day.
Hope your Valentine’s Day was just as great!
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  • Julie - What a perfect little cousin party! I love all the details.

    And, I also have to tell you that i LOVE that picture of you and Levi outside. Very pretty (of you) and cute (of Levi in his new shoes).ReplyCancel

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  • Devon - what a great idea!!

    and i love his little red converse!

    thinking of you during this time…ReplyCancel

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  • Chelsy - Gosh I wish I was this creative! This is ADORABLE!! Love love love. Where did you get that table and chairs set? Looks nice and sturdy and very cute.ReplyCancel

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  • Dave - How stinkin’ cute is that party?! You are so creative and Levi is adorable. Love his shoes and both pictures of you and Levi are so cute (especially the first one!). 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • meg duerksen - THIS is good valentine’s!!!
    i love this.
    i wish i was at that party.
    🙂

    i am realizing my kids aren’t little and so maybe that is why valentine’s is not as fun…..because they aren’t as cute as little levi! ha ha ha!

    love the little table and chairs!ReplyCancel

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  • Krystal - What a cute idea! You’re so crafty! I couldn’t craft my way out of a paper bag! lol Also, I love those shoes! When my son went through the “I’m going to take my shoes off every two seconds” phase, we got him converse high tops so he couldn’t take them off! It was awesome!ReplyCancel

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  • Tricia - You are so creative. What a fun and adorable party. Also, where did you get that large chalkboard frame? I love that!! Don’t tell me you made it, because I’ll feel lazy. 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • JESSICA - So creative. I love the table with mailboxes.
    I’m sure you get asked a million times a day, but what kind of camera do you have? If you don’t mind sending me a message – jtomasrogers at yahoo dot com – I would greatly appreciate it. We are searching for something now, and your pictures are always perfect…maybe you just have the perfect people to photograph. 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Heather | Cookie Mondays - absolutely adorable!!!
    boo for rsv 🙁
    i can’t believe we were just talking about that!
    i want to steal those chairs 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Kristi REDISKE - I have been missing your posts but do understand-glad you are back and posted about the Valentine Party. You are so good at this stuff-I am amazed! Levi is such a doll and so are all the cousins-I am sure your Cora would have loved all this-i am sure it is so hard without her-but she is never forgotten. The picture of you and Levi is adorable!ReplyCancel

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  • Gail - so.stinking.cute!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Stef - love the shoes, love the craft! I saw it on Megan’s website a few days ago and my daughters and I went to Target and stocked up on supplies to make them. We’ll hang them up “late” but I say its never late to display love around our house 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Heather - I love this!! Such cute shoes too!ReplyCancel

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  • Peden Family - I just LOVE everything you put Levi in. Where do you get most of his clothes? So hard to find cute boy stuff.ReplyCancel

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  • k and c's mom - This is beyond cute. You are so creative, Jess, and so smart to make these family memories. And Levi in red Converse! You win the best Valentine award.ReplyCancel

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  • Sadie - Sounds like an amazing day! LOVE the idea of a cousin valentines party! Those mailboxes and shoes are too cute!ReplyCancel

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  • Michelle - What kind of camera do you use? your pictures are always so amazing 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - he looks like daddy…ReplyCancel

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  • Kristin - Love the picture of Levi’s shoes, and the one of the two of you-very sweet!ReplyCancel

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  • Toni :O) - Awwww…loved the party, decorations and crafts but I have to say the photo of you two is the BEST!!! Great, great photo and you should have that framed. Those shoes are the bomb! Always praying for your sweet family!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - What a sweet party! I love Levi’s red converse! He is stylin’!

    Praying for you in FL!

    ~Krista
    aka babykatesmomReplyCancel

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  • Mandy - I don’t know you but I love reading your blog, which I found through Brooke Whitis…That photo of you and Levi is just darling! And kudos to you on your creativity and resilient spirit!ReplyCancel

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  • Kimberly - What a precious idea! Looks like everyone had a great time & wonderful memories were made! Thanks for sharing! (BTW, I dig the red Converse! 😉ReplyCancel

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  • Danielle H. - You have the BEST parties!!! Gonna copy some of your ideas. I want to know what type of table you have too – it’s the perfect size for little kiddos. I’ve tried finding the old kids chairs but they are hard to find in my area. I guess I’ll have to come to Kansas!!! I also wanted to make those adorable “have a ball” Valentine’s but I couldn’t find bouncy balls that were big enough. I could only find those tiny ones. Where did you find yours? LOVE, love the pic of the two of you. Seriously cute! Hugs from Texas!ReplyCancel

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  • Emily - Holy Moses I LOVE those shoes!! I need to check out my target… hmmmmm… : )ReplyCancel

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  • Mindee@ourfrontdoor - Your parties are flat out inspiring. You should start a party planning business!ReplyCancel

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  • Tara - oh my gosh! cutest, little party ever! i’m totally having one for the little cousins next year!

    and LOVE the red converses! adorable!ReplyCancel

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  • Karina - I thought the same thing before I read what you wrote…only Cora is missing.

    Mr. Levi is extremely handsome, red shoes or not.ReplyCancel

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  • Andrea - So cute – love all the details. Levi is looking so little boyish!….and I’m with you on the ironing thing (which is ironic since I need to be meticulous about it for all my sewing projects!)ReplyCancel

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  • Nicole - Oh my! What a great idea to have a kids’ Valentine’s Day party! I have to say, RSV stinks. We have had it for about a month here at our house (with 3 kids, it takes a while to make it’s way out!). Glad Levi is feeling better. My little man is 9 mths old and he was miserable for about 2 weeks. I think the cute red shoes would certainly cheer him up (or maybe that’s just me). I have a little bit of shoe envy. Levi sure it stylin’!! Thanks for your blog and the amazing photos. I love stopping by!ReplyCancel

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  • Rich and Carolyn Dewey - You are a SERIOUS party planner. Loved the mailboxes – all such great ideas! LOVED your lined out about Grandmas enjoying a leisurely meal. HAHAHA!

    Oh, and those wrinkles??? How many kids commented on them? Zero? Thought so! 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Geo - Thats one big stack of coloured paper! makes me go oooooooh 🙂

    and i LOVE Levi’s converse!! so jealous!ReplyCancel

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  • Momma H - I want to join your family! You have so much fun and you are so creative.
    Oh well, being a sister in Christ is great too.ReplyCancel

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  • Miss G - SUCH fun! I love your heart garland. As soon as I saw the tablecloths I was reminded of Joel’s party. Way to re-purpose! Really neat! I love how you did the doilies under the plates too. Simple and perfect touch. Are your polka dot napkins from Michael’s a year or two ago at Christmas? I stocked up on those. 🙂

    It must have been gray and red stripes year for boys for Valentine’s. My boy-o wore a shirt like three of your boys. One of my dear friends bought it for me last year when I was pregnant saying it was for Valentine’s this year. So fun.

    I really like seeing the different ways the cousins did their hearts. Such creativity and expression. KellyReplyCancel

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  • Regina - He is such a doll- love the party, what a great idea!ReplyCancel

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  • Nancy - RSV ~ Yuck!! Bless his sweet heart! I am glad he is better & had a fun Valentine’s Party! You are so creative!!ReplyCancel

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  • Marianne - Love:
    1. Levi’s shoes
    2. The pictures of you and Levi
    3. The definite smile on his face in Levi’s picture with daddy

    What a cute party!ReplyCancel

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  • Michelle - This comment has been removed by the author.ReplyCancel

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  • Michelle - I LOVE the old phone on you wall! Your party looks like it came straight from a magazine. We got mailboxes like that for Valentines a few years back and still have them on shelves in our rooms. The kids still write and hide letters back and forth to each other.ReplyCancel

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  • Beth - I don’t remember reading your blog, but it popped up in my googlereader for the first time today (So I must’ve already!)… it was strange for me to read about your little Levi – my son’s name as well! And my Levi doesn’t seem to be much older than yours. 🙂

    I love your party though! Oh my gosh, do I love it! I think the mason jar glasses and little striped straws are my favorite.

    BethReplyCancel

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  • Pamela - Adorable cousin party. I think that’s such a special thing to do. Making memories. Love Levi’s shoes.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - So, so, sweet. Right out of a magazine Jess. Loved everything about it. . .Nolan has the same red converse. And clearance too! 🙂 Carrie M.ReplyCancel

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  • Jenny - What a darling party and a precious boy you have. Love his sweet red shoes too!

    I just read about your sweet Cora, and am so very sorry that you lost her. That is something no parent should have to endure. Ever. I know Cora will always be with you, and I pray that Levi can help to heal your hearts.ReplyCancel

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  • Alex and Jill - Amelia is having a Valentine party this year with a few friends and cousins. We’re having fun planning it and bought those same little mailboxes but in pink…I think all of our decor has come from the $1 bin at Target! 🙂

    Such a cute party. I’m looking for a craft – might use the one you’ve shared here!ReplyCancel

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  • Brown Apples - so sweet- you are an amazing mamaReplyCancel

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  • Danielle - LOVE this Valentine party ideas. So fun!ReplyCancel

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  • Anna - such a cute party, and I love the ‘have a ball’ valentines!ReplyCancel

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  • Jerri Rivers - Great party! I’m featuring your “ball valentine” idea on Wednesday in a kid’s Valentine post. Please stop by and check it out!ReplyCancel

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  • DIY Valentine Gifts - The Scott Life - […] Sign, Love Bug Cards,  Painted Heart Bag, Cupcakes, Wreath, Hand-made Cards, Have a Ball Valentines, Valentine Bouquet, Valentine Secret Messages, Valentine Dates, Mustache Valentines, Heart […]ReplyCancel

  • happy heart party {2013} » The Macs - […] phone. This is our third cousin Valentine party. Such a fun tradition! You can see our past parties here and here. And now it is time to start thinking about preparing my little ones (and myself!) for […]ReplyCancel

  • Candy-Free Valentine Ideas | Gaining Mommymentum - […] almost made a version of this bouncy ball valentine from The Macs but it would have said “you make my heart bounce.” Then I had images of a class of […]ReplyCancel

  • 12 Clever DIY Valentine’s Day Treats | Lisa Plus Three - […] via Sugar & Charm | Mad Lib cards via Made Vibrant | Racecar via Real Simple | Have a Ball via The Macs | Awesome Applesauce via Delia Creates | Starbursts via BHG | Socks Valentine via […]ReplyCancel

Loved.

So loved.

That is how we feel two years later.
Thank you for remembering with us.
Thank you for your cards, texts, e-mails, comments, and calls.
Thank you for taking the time to share how the Lord has used Cora to change you.
What a blessing to hear how God continues to use our sweet Cora’s life…
even two years later.
I love these words from a sweet friend…
The love of a parent is a powerful thing.
The love of your Father is an almighty thing.
Truly, Cora Paige has been a messenger of her loving God.
Tuesday was tough. The days leading up to Tuesday were really tough too. It is amazing how all of a sudden the tears just come again. A reminder of the days when I didn’t think my tears would ever end. As much as I would love to only remember the happy memories, I remember the horrible ones too. It is impossible to not be reminded of what was happening during those 17 days we were in the hospital with Cora. It is impossible to not be reminded of how sick my baby was. It is impossible to not be reminded of the surgeries, test results, and hard conversations with doctors that took place. It is impossible to not be reminded of the intense feelings of pain that we felt as we said goodbye.
And yet as we continue to grieve, I am reminded of our sweet Cora Paige who truly was and continues to be a messenger of her loving God. She has forever changed my life and has touched so many other lives as well. I am reminded that God has a purpose in my pain, even though I don’t always understand. I am reminded that two years later, He still understands my tears and offers me great hope and comfort. I am reminded that my Heavenly Father loves Cora more than I ever could and in His sovereignty had a perfect plan for her short life.
Yes, I still grieve. 
Yes, I still cry.
Yes, I still miss my baby as desperately as I did two years ago.
Yes, I still struggle to let go of my plans and dreams for Cora and our family.
Yes, this time of year may always be difficult for me as I remember.
Yes, it is just as hard for Joel as it is for me.
But we hold on to HOPE. 
We rejoice that our Cora is with Jesus.
And we cling to our Great Comforter.
So, we made it through another anniversary. Honestly I feel so much relief. It is so hard to know what to do or say or feel on those days. Nothing seems right. Nothing feels right. Levi probably wondered why in the world his mama was squeezing him so tight on Tuesday. Someday he will understand that his big sister forever changed his mama. She is the reason why I treasure each moment. And for that I am so grateful.
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  • songskatesang - Jess, I am praying for you. With all my heart.ReplyCancel

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  • Auntie Mip - Jess…I do not know you, having been following your journey since Cora was diagnosed, and grieve right along side of you. I am much older than you. I am a pediatric oncology nurse. I lost my brother to cancer when he was 7 and I was 5. I stand in AWE of your great faith. I am a Christian and rely on my faith as you do. Outside of my mother and the grace with whic she raised us, never definign us by our David’s death, I have never seen ANYONE with your grace, maturity, and truly awer inspiring faith. Your sweet Cora Paige looks down on you loves you and has such pride that you are he mommy. Yes it is ture, no one can love Cora like our heavenly Father, but know one can love Cora like her mama either. I can come up with no other word beyong Awe…you are a gift Jess, such a precious precious gift!ReplyCancel

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  • Chris, Kerri, & The Boys - These are some of the exact words I uttered during my loss even though not as great as yours. Thank you for you post! You are amazing!!ReplyCancel

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  • Kelly - Jess, I have been following your blog since you lost precious Cora. Your journey has been such an inspiration to me. I cried for you in the days after you lost Cora, rejoiced with you when you announced you were expecting sweet Levi, and have prayed for your family for the past two years. I have read and followed a lot of blogs online where unfortunately children were sick, or have passed away. I have prayed for each of these families, but for some reason little Cora has touched my heart beyond what I can explain. I think it may be because I had a little girl just a little younger than Cora when she went to be with Jesus. Your testimony and faith have been such an inspiration to me. Through your own grief and suffering you continue to minister and encourage others. I hope you know that precious Cora continues to be remembered and loved, as well as you and Joel. I pray that God will continue to heal your heart and bring you comfort.ReplyCancel

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  • 609rollinghillsdr - You ARE loved. More than you know, because sometimes it’s just so hard to explain how much! This family is forever changed by your family and your sweet Cora Paige!ReplyCancel

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  • Kelly - I remember the day I logged on and was looking for an update and I saw those simple words…”cora is with jesus today”. My heart sank, I felt like not only did she loose her battle, but WE ALL did! We were all behind you every step of the way. I still continue reading your blog and love your unconditional faith and love. Its truly inspiring and amazing. You are such a strong person and I continue to keep your family in my prayers.ReplyCancel

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  • Brooke - Jess,
    you are right. Cora’s sweet life and you generous vulnerability is bringing God GREAT glory.
    I can’t imaging how difficult these days are. So thankful for HIS grace…only HIS grace would allow for healing, joy, peace, and sadness to coexist.
    Again, thank you for your very generous vulnerability.ReplyCancel

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  • Nirupama - I don’t know you, but I am praying for you. Thank you so much for sharing your story. I am really in awe of you.
    I have been in the position to give bad news to patients with cancer and honestly, I am terrible at it. I never know what to say or do, usually I am choking back tears myself. Anyway, it really helps me alot to read your story.
    Aside from that your sense of gratitude now is inspiring. I hope I can keep at least a small piece of that in my heart as well when my baby is trying my patience.

    God bless you and thanks again.ReplyCancel

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  • flower power momma - We remember your journey and darling sweet Cora. Even when we don’t know you personally, we remember.

    May God bless your broken heart and tender spirit.
    ” oh how He loves you.”ReplyCancel

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  • Sue - Hang in there, tough girl! You are a shining light to so many, as is your precious Cora. As I’ve said before, your faith is such an inpiration to us all. Cora was lucky to share her short life with such amazing parents.

    Sue X

    PS. While nothing close to losing a child, I found the second anniversary of losing my husband so much harder than the first. I trust that God will teach you how to live with the hole that Cora’s death has left in your heart and that with time the hole will heal to become a scar – never to be forgotten, but easier to live with.

    Big hugs all around xReplyCancel

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  • Adventures of Squirrel and Bug - I have been following your blog since right around the time Cora became ill. Since then, your words have inspired me. Your faith has inspired me. You and Joel are so strong and I have nothing but complete respect for both of you. The way you word your posts….it is just amazing. You have such a grace about you. I can tell that our loving God is speaking to me through you at times; and you are right-Cora’s short but sweet life is bringing God glory!
    When I woke up Tuesday, one of the first things I thought of was…it was the anniversary of Cora going to Heaven. I said a little prayer for you and cried a few tears. Just please know that I will continue to pray for you and your family during these tough times. I do rejoice that you have sweet Levi-what a gift from God!ReplyCancel

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  • Dana - I’ve been reading your blog for several months. I just wanted you to know that Cora has touched my life too.

    Your post has touched me as I’ve started to have a harder time the past few days with my loss (my baby Jacob) too. It is always hard, but some days just knock you down.ReplyCancel

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  • Sarah - Beautiful Jess! Your words are always an inspiration. I still pray for you and your family and think about Cora every day. Cora touched my heart in a way that I cannot explain.ReplyCancel

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  • Candice - Thinking of Cora and praying for your lovely family!!ReplyCancel

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  • nichole - As a parent of a chronically ill child, I relate in ways. I am always so grateful for your posts for you inspire and encourage me in ways not many can. Thank you for your faith!ReplyCancel

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  • Party of Five - You are so strong. I think of you often and squeeze me kids a little tighter too! Thanks for sharing your journey with all of us. It does help me to remember what is important in regards to my family!ReplyCancel

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  • Ellen - Auntie Mip expressed my feelings exactly! There are no words that can take away that pain but just know there are thousands of people that continue to pray for your precious family even though they do no know you personally. I am one of those! God Bless you and yours!ReplyCancel

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  • Susy - Our prayers are with you and your family. Cora was such a gift. Levi will one day see a picture of Cora and know how much she meant to so many people; even those she didn’t know.ReplyCancel

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  • mommaof4wife2r - that little cora paige and you all have just laid an impression on our hearts here in indiana forever. the Lord is mighty and is using that sweet little girl for His glory to this very day.

    may God continue to bless you all and may you continue to feel His peace.ReplyCancel

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  • Selena - God is so pleased with your faith in Him, and with your heart that so lovingly shines for Him. You are doing a great job of continuing to share the good news; the ultimate gift of Heaven. I am so sorry for your’s and Joel’s pain, as well as your other family members, however I am thankful for your Christian example. You always remind me of the most precious gifts we have received from God (other than His son)… our babies. Thank you for sharing your heart and Cora’s story. I am certain that her legacy will continue to touch the lives of many. May your HOPE continue to carry you with great strength as you go through each and every day. Take care of you and Joel, and big boy Levi, too. (He is so stinkin’ cute!!!) 🙂 Praying for you.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - You are amazing. I hope if I am ever faced with something as tragic, I can be half as strong and positive as you are.ReplyCancel

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  • Two Buckaroos - You are an amazing person. I found your blog thorough a mutual link and have followed your post for a few months. Although I don’t know your famiy personally, my heart aches for you, I have shed tears for you and prayed for you. I have two toddlers and find myself seeking the Lord harder than I ever have before by your humbling story. Praises to you for using our Father to help you through your tribulations, one day you will be reunited in Heaven with your precious angel. Many blessings, Michelle.ReplyCancel

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  • Ellen Grant - Sweet, sweet words. Thank you.ReplyCancel

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  • Trisha Larson - Sadly…I can relate to it all! I am grateful for the perspective that God has given me through all of this but still wish that I didn’t have to learn it this way

    Hugs,
    TrishaReplyCancel

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  • Wanting What I Have - I don’t know what to say, just wanted you to know that you are on my heart. I am praying for you and Joel.ReplyCancel

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  • Stef - when I am going through a deep valley (though I’ve never had to walk through one this deep) I remind myself that Jesus wept. He grieved, He begged His Father not to have Him go through the torture he went through. He felt anger, pain, sadness and worry.
    Those emotions are good. I’m glad you’ve felt grief and peace all in one. God is so good that way!

    God bless you!ReplyCancel

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  • The McBrayer family - wow- this is precious. What a beautiful portrait of your love for Cora. Praying for you in Georgia. Love reading your blog, and love looking at pictures of that sweet baby boy- he is as cute as it gets!! God Bless you sweet Jess!
    Kelli in AtlantaReplyCancel

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  • Marla Taviano - Thank you, Cora. Thank you so much. Praying for you and Joel!ReplyCancel

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  • Bridget - Thank you for sharing your journey. Our prayers are with you during this anniversary. May God bless you and your family!ReplyCancel

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  • elisabeth moyer - dear jess,
    i think i found you through the ashley ann/meg blogs a year ago or so. the first time i read your family’s story, i cried and cried and then cried some more. through your blog, i am always reminded of God’s love and His grace. thank you for being so vulnerable with us. it is beautiful.ReplyCancel

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  • Megan - I found your blog when Cora was diagnosed and have been following you since. What an inspiration you have been to me over these two years. Your faith and peaceful heart are a model to me. Cora was a little bit older than my daughter and we have a son who is days apart from Levi. I lost my mom to cancer before I had kids when she was 50 years old. Cancer is such a horrible disease! Last May, my sister and I walked in our town’s Relay for Life…we lit a candle for my mom and for your sweet Cora Paige. Praying for you often!ReplyCancel

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  • meg duerksen - yes cora was a messenger to many of us.
    in so many ways….brought so many together…did so much good in short little life.
    i remember very much of those days too and it makes me ache for you and joel.

    what a gift cora was to all of us.ReplyCancel

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  • The Mershawn's - Been praying for you guys…with a heavy heart. But rejoicing in the hope we have. I know you must miss her intensely…and I’m sure Levi didn’t mind the extra love. Glad you have him to squeeze, while you remember his sweet sister.ReplyCancel

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  • Mae - Thinking of your family.ReplyCancel

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  • Amy - Thinking of you and sweet Cora! You are an amazing example. But I know its hard.ReplyCancel

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  • Colbert Family - You’re amazing and I love your precious family! Cora will never be forgotten and the impact she has had on me and sooo many others will be remembered and celebrated for eternity. And you have glorified God in the most painful of days and you will get so many crowns in Heaven for your faithfulness. Watching you walk this journey has helped in our journey as our 5 year old daughter just finished her treatment for leukemia. Thank you for sharing your heart so openly and for being a true example what it looks like to follow Christ with all that you are, no matter what you are going through. You are amazing and I am praying for God to continue to carry you and pour His blessings out on you and your family.ReplyCancel

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