tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59875473244273681952024-02-18T22:07:04.923-08:00Our Journey to Sophie AnnSophie Ann was diagnosed with a fatal chromosome abnormality at 15 weeks gestation. This blog is a journal of how her short life has been a blessing to thousands all over the world.Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.comBlogger56125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-89672789125265252092008-03-13T10:05:00.000-07:002008-03-25T16:59:04.357-07:00WELCOME!<strong>Welcome to our blog! This blog is about our journey during our pregnancy with Sophie Ann. Sophie Ann was diagnosed with Trisomy 13 and HPE at 15 weeks gestation. This is a fatal diagnosis. We were offered termination, but we chose to give our little girl a chance at life. It was a very difficult journey filled with lots of emotions, but in the end, it was worth every minute. All <span style="color:#ff0000;">9 minutes</span> that we held her. You have probably found this blog from the referral of a friend, a news story, the Trisomy 13 website, Focus on the Family's website, ect. Please hang around and read all about our journey, I am sure you will be inspired and encouraged in your faith. Our journey began on <span style="color:#ff0000;">September 21 of 2007</span>. You will need to go to the bottom of the blog and click on old posts, this will take you back to 07'. If you are in this same situation, please don't hesitate to e-mail me. I would love to talk with you or put you in contact with another mother under similar circumstances. </strong><br /><strong>Aimee Weathers</strong><br /><a href="mailto:aimeeweathers1@yahoo.com">aimeeweathers1@yahoo.com</a><br />This blog will also include information about our China adoption. We started the international adoption process in May of 07, just 2 months before we conceived our Sophie Ann. We are looking forward to bringing home "Lily" sometime in the next 6-12 months.Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-57084771244120403302008-03-10T08:33:00.000-07:002008-03-10T08:34:10.058-07:00Our story hits the news!<a href="http://www.thedenverchannel.com/video/15548685/index.html" target="_blank">http://www.thedenverchannel.com/video/15548685/index.html</a>Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-45562422095546421172008-02-28T10:30:00.000-08:002008-02-28T10:34:51.658-08:00UH-OHPlease e-mail me if you need a password to our new blog. I have entered all the the e-mails into the private blog info, but sometimes I make typing mistakes and that is why you have not received a password. Sorry, I am doing my best!!!! <br /><br />Our new blog is up and running and would love for you to come visit. Hang in there with me as we make this blog transition!<br /><a href="mailto:aimeeweathers1@yahoo.com">aimeeweathers1@yahoo.com</a>Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-37697622417518816012008-02-12T08:44:00.000-08:002008-02-12T09:05:59.083-08:00<strong>FRIENDS:</strong><br /><strong>Thank you for your faithfulness in praying for us over the last several months. We have been so encouraged by all of your words of encouragement. At this point, we are going to bring this blog to an end. Aimee has created a new blog for friends and family to follow as we continue on our journey of life. Many of you should receive an e-mail with information on how to access the new blog. IF you don't, please e-mail Aimee and she will add you to the blog list. </strong><br /><strong>We pray that your lives have been touched and changed. Thanks again for your continued prayers. To God be the Glory!</strong><br /><strong>The Weathers Family</strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>NEW BLOG:<br /></strong><br /><strong><a href="http://www.ajourneyofhope2008.blogspot.com/">http://www.ajourneyofhope2008.blogspot.com</a></strong><br /><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong><br /><br /></strong><strong></strong><strong></strong>Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-78270209501573007162008-02-03T06:28:00.000-08:002008-02-03T07:27:36.727-08:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2wCZvBxejQLHOfJgM2t8B3_Mb6qakI1xa_9AkKURMaAi3nDxYOG3PqMus8sY3G5OMTyNFJNaIWu2ER9D-4SVFLrntRaQQIMdiUs5n5ssJPgS3CRlUjkPt1ZDnwZy1t75xf2xylbRS9Bs/s1600-h/sophie267.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5162775925754326450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2wCZvBxejQLHOfJgM2t8B3_Mb6qakI1xa_9AkKURMaAi3nDxYOG3PqMus8sY3G5OMTyNFJNaIWu2ER9D-4SVFLrntRaQQIMdiUs5n5ssJPgS3CRlUjkPt1ZDnwZy1t75xf2xylbRS9Bs/s320/sophie267.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje7kJ0Ybf9LVqL_CFw5d_cp4Nny31PfJ4Q7XedLkwm0HWCifg_byfchK_s13HrcbzaS4DbW-wLPh3IbegjukR05HruFEXOvVq-oKtH6d_Z5ATYNQ2RIIWk6yCeVjxnLu0EdP9rXBhvlj0/s1600-h/sophie203.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5162773589292117410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje7kJ0Ybf9LVqL_CFw5d_cp4Nny31PfJ4Q7XedLkwm0HWCifg_byfchK_s13HrcbzaS4DbW-wLPh3IbegjukR05HruFEXOvVq-oKtH6d_Z5ATYNQ2RIIWk6yCeVjxnLu0EdP9rXBhvlj0/s320/sophie203.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMwfme5oE3YQuHYsgCiGQLoVpORktmguFHVI8v5d7e4-zGaDaRa6iyrmz3_CCuq4Br8GomEM-V2E2koiPQCwzWdtPfrzqw0zn8auih4spGGJmLbUpmUez2640HrQ9HkqE0UUdtOgTC3gk/s1600-h/sophie298.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5162772622924475794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMwfme5oE3YQuHYsgCiGQLoVpORktmguFHVI8v5d7e4-zGaDaRa6iyrmz3_CCuq4Br8GomEM-V2E2koiPQCwzWdtPfrzqw0zn8auih4spGGJmLbUpmUez2640HrQ9HkqE0UUdtOgTC3gk/s320/sophie298.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Fz046Xz2jTNh86I8brwF9YY7IMnBy8gdZtXUD1OBtW5d70gct09X7QmnNZCkGBUg_oY9oBYzwZiP7vSo-sTqweq6twQ_DamZTcrWtJJxfH1eWo5MdPij87ttGJWJAHrJmrDNiHlsfqk/s1600-h/sophie190.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5162770453965991298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Fz046Xz2jTNh86I8brwF9YY7IMnBy8gdZtXUD1OBtW5d70gct09X7QmnNZCkGBUg_oY9oBYzwZiP7vSo-sTqweq6twQ_DamZTcrWtJJxfH1eWo5MdPij87ttGJWJAHrJmrDNiHlsfqk/s320/sophie190.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>Dear Friends,</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>I wanted to get these picture up quicker, but our family has been hit with the flu! YUK! We all (except HG) came down with it on Thursday. I am feeling better today, just a little weak. I am still trying to figure out how to post a power point slide show....ughh technology! If anyone knows how, please help! </div><br /><br /><div>We really had a great time this past week just being together. Carlton and I both slept about 12 hours a night for 3 days. Sweet little Hannah Grace would wake up and take care of Noah, I think they watched waaaaay too much TV...and they ate complete junk food for breakfast, but hey, who cares. It was really great to get away. It was even better to come home (especially being sick) to a CLEAN house. Thank you Grace Fellowship women for cleaning my house and stocking my freezer with food. Ya'll really went above and beyond! </div><br /><br /><div>So, you ask, How am I doing? - Honestly, I have good moments and really low moments. I really struggle at night. Its weird, it gets dark outside, and I start getting a lot of anxiety. Its in these moments that I really have to cling to God's word and pray, pray, pray. I honestly have to say, I never expected it to be this hard. While I was pregnant, I thought that once she was born, I would be able (to some extent) to grieve and move on. Boy, was I wrong. How I wish she was back in my belly! My body literally aches to hold her, to have her with me. Selfishly, I want her back! But, in my heart, I know she is with her precious Savior and is happy. I told my mom, I feel like I have turned into an old woman. You know, old people, they sit around and long for heaven. Now, heaven seems so sweet and wonderful. How wonderful it will be to hold my daughter again and most of all, wrap my arms aroung my Savior who has carried me faithfully through this trial. As hard as this road was and is... I know He will reach out His hands to me and say "Well done, my child." And all the heartache and suffering will be worth it, just to be able to hear those words. </div><br /><br /><div>I have so much more to write, but that is all for now. Back to the bed to eat more crackers and watch yet another makeover episode on TLC. UGH... </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I am working on the other blog this week. Hopefully, I will have it up by the end of the week. This blog will journal our adoption and it will also be a place for me to journal my thoughts. </div><br /><br /><div>I hope you enjoy these precious pictures of our little girl. She was more beautiful than I ever imagined. </div><br /><div>Aimee</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div>Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-58830781279377801482008-01-28T06:03:00.000-08:002008-01-28T06:14:43.085-08:00Be Still And Know...Dear Friends,<br />I wanted to let you know that we are spending some time together as a family this week. Our "getaway" is breathtaking and we are enjoying God's creation like never before. In the past, when we go places, I have some "itinerary" of all the places we have to go or have to take the kids. WE HAVE ZERO PLANS. And I have never been more happier. Right now, as I type, I am enjoying the laughter of my kids and Carlton as they wrestle on the floor. Its so loud and I love every bit of it. I have so much to write and so much to reflect over. Sophie Ann has changed us, every fiber of our being. She was truly a gift from above. I will write more.. like I said, there is so much I want to say and share with you all. We will also do our best to get the power point and picture slide show on the blog. We have had so many people ask to see it. Please pray for us this week. Pray that our nights would be peaceful. <br />Aimee and CarltonAimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-15655198598478301642008-01-24T11:07:00.000-08:002008-01-24T11:16:25.720-08:00<strong>WEATHERS</strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong> -Funeral services for Infant Sophie Ann Weathers will be Saturday at 11 a.m. at Anniston Memorial Funeral Home with her father, Rev. Carlton Weathers officiating. Burial will be in Maple Grove Cemetery. </strong><br /><strong> Survivors include her parents, Carlton and Aimee Weathers, her sister, Hannah Grace; her brother Noah Weathers; her grandparents, Ann and Ivy Knight of Columbus MS; Rex Davidson of Roanoke, VA and Roy and Deborah Weathers of Columbus, MS; great-grandparents, Helen Lindley of Macon, MS, Betty Pounders, Roy Weathers and Fanny May Weathers of Columbus, MS; four aunts and one uncle. </strong><br /><strong> Pallbearers will be Ivy Knight, Rex Davidson, Jordan Weathers, J.C. Robinson, Barry Smith, Aaron Acker, Carlton Brown, and Don Sprayberry. </strong><br /><strong> Memorial donations may be made to Grace Fellowship Church, Sophie Ann Weathers Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 8042, Anniston, AL 36202</strong>Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-47684872980001092122008-01-23T08:53:00.000-08:002008-01-23T08:55:20.471-08:009 Minutes and then Eternal Bliss!Dear Friends and Family,<br /><br />Our sweet little girl was born last night at 8:46pm. She was 3 lbs. 15 oz. and 18 inches long. God graciously granted her 9 minutes of life. I have never witnessed anything more beautiful and I have never in my life felt closer to Christ than during this time. As I sit in the hospital, I am having a hard time putting into words how very special my time with her was. God answered every single prayer that we prayed during the last 18 weeks. Every single one. I prayed for Sophie to make it through delivery.. I wanted her in my arms when she went home to Christ, and she was. It was the most holy experience. It was so peaceful. When she was born, she wiggled her little arm and her mouth. Dr. Daniel gave her straight to me after the birth and her daddy sang a hymn in her ear. He also recited Psalm 23. We gave her a bath and loved on her for 6 hours. Through our suffering, we have experienced a joy like no other. There was even laughter in our room. Hannah Grace and Noah came in and held her and kissed her. Noah said she was soft and squishy and kissed her all over. Hannah Grace rubbed her hair and kissed her cheeks. They were so proud of their sister. Jerrod Brown (our photographer) took some of the most incredible photos of our time with her. Dr. Daniel never left my side. He prayed over me, held my hand, and stayed with me from 6:00pm until midnight. He even helped give her a bath. We are so very thankful for such a godly doctor. His presensce was very comforting. I knew I was safe under his care.<br />Please continue to remember us in prayer. The next few days will be hard. We want to invite all of those who have been part of our journey to attend Sophie’s memorial service this Saturday. We will share a slide show and Carlton will be preaching her service. The gospel of Christ will be shared.<br />Arrangements are as follows.<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">Anniston Memorial Funeral Home 11:00 a.m.- Saturday</span><br /><br /><em>Directions: From Birmingham- East on 1-20 to Oxford Exit, Exit 185. Turn left off of exit ramp and go north on Hwy 21/Quintard Ave. Go about 8 miles and turn left on HWY 431 north. Go north on hwy. 431 towards Gadsden and the funeral home is on the left.<br /></em>Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-33920661083899406792008-01-22T17:56:00.000-08:002008-01-22T18:07:07.355-08:008:00 p.m. UpdateThe delivery is moving along. Aimee is feeling much better since her water has been broken. Sophie Ann is doing fine. Dr. Daniels is here with us. Please continue to pray for our family. We will try to update again as things progress.Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-29697626179346523022008-01-22T14:48:00.000-08:002008-01-22T14:53:22.673-08:00Labor is in ProcessAimee wanted me to update our progress. Sophie is doing fine as far as we can tell. Aimee is doing great, she is the strongest woman I know! The nurse told us that Aimee is dilated to 4 cm. She is progressing great. Please continue to pray for us. Pray that we can be the face of Christ to those with us during this trial. We love all of you, and we trust that our Father has perfectly planned this for our good and His glory!!! We will update again after the birth if possible. May His name and renown go out through all the earth.<br /><br />Mathew 18!Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-7369026051487978952008-01-22T07:44:00.000-08:002008-01-22T07:55:02.260-08:00Sophie is on her way..<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;">Due to complications with my blood pressure and fluid build up, Dr. Daniel has said it is time for our sweet Sophie to come. We covet your prayers during these hours of trial. We ask that you contact us <span style="color:#3333ff;">only</span> through our web page. Carlton will be updating the page at the hospital. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;">Just thought I might add how God's timing is perfect. <strong>Today</strong>, <span style="color:#ff0000;">January 22, 2008</span> is the 35th anniversary of the <span style="color:#ff0000;">Roe vs. Wade</span> decision. Our little girl Sophie, wants the world to know that every life matters. All the speeches and rallys will send a message but no message speaks louder than the 8 month journey of our sweet baby. </span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;"></span><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;">TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!!</span><br /></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><br /> </div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;"></span>Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-52592910873781590812008-01-16T09:00:00.000-08:002008-03-24T18:50:21.071-07:00Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow..<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr9jBavyr3nknGWaZ7KzD5K8aOj8Y1VDKNaoVWB8ZbI4B8d9F_TXxomCR1HqxInzGVa-Hu_reCYvKiuIMOA7_1c_ZfRSQf9LTKbUkFDFbOKwezAuRrT4SVfBxrFJXS6PnCqDjUCzfNVXY/s1600-h/100_3328.JPG"></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7XOud9NzAk1xh0VzD8e-9HEgrAZFWWPBc_VuayW3TZDZuRdHWyZbZZmWqDpnf6rR3Swq5iplWM6jGaprb65cIW319QOUbaWGhlEcrANAaVQUKZwfZ7KS5AFDLYgnKl7H0R19ln52iUW0/s1600-h/000_0185.JPG"></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguP1LawlhLjhPP6P9Cw5EOVPBZpw1FeJ_yfy0_HjKP8nESxNU-wlZDi49CTkpep5XN2lj1zTeYs3kfEJ46AEN8TIjd8C6IDUxIHWMP7UFkq7RGXqu4Pq3Ff3HvkKmjUlxx6BafO20WzyA/s1600-h/blackwhite.jpg"></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-mDXnSjdBhmz8uuuMRyg0vqVStkN5ipzkrBOltcikYRFriSM-ptdC_u6yvakco-J-S3HWDrmWlE496yOeeHbhm7MFLguSPa60NI2SMU2FaWZzQNMzrArCm0ydayexuf0pzypZfUtKMJ8/s1600-h/000_0180.JPG"></a> Many people who I know and even more that I don't know have e-mailed me during this time with Sophie. The e-mails have been so precious and have encouraged me more than you know. I find it truly amazing that so many people have been touched by my daughter. Knowing her little life is having eternal impact, is so encouraging. I have to say, I am humbled by your words about my strength in this circumstance. It seems so strange the read this, because I know that I am not a strong person. Only God has gotten me this far. Trust me, it is NOT of me. Sometimes, I catch myself looking at myself in the mirror and thinking, "Who is this person?". The Aimee I know should be curled up in a ball somewhere, throwing a fit, screaming about how unfair this is. I admit, the thought has crossed my mind, many times. But, during these dark moments, I feel Christ's presence and know that He is holding my hand and carrying me. Some of my closest times with Christ have been during this time of trial. These past few weeks, I have had to cling tighter to Christ than ever before. My mind wants to wander and fear can take hold easily. I am struggling right now with all the "what ifs". I like to have things in order and have a plan, but I have zero control of this situation! I have to remind myself of God's complete sovereignty over this situation. Please pray for us this week that fear would not take hold. We have our next Dr. appt. next Tuesday. This is just a regular check-up. We will also be meeting with the nursing staff at the hospital next week. We pray that God would send the right nurses to us.<br /><br /><div>The Lord was so sweet to me yesterday. For the past 3 months, I have been praying for snow. (Yeah, I know, its crazy to pray for that in Alabama!) I have been driving Carlton nuts about taking the kids to see some snow this year. So, two days ago we watched the weather forecast and saw that north Alabama/north Georgia was going to possibly get some snow this weekend. We decided we were going to get in the van after church on Sunday and drive until we found snow. Yesterday, from out of nowhere, (not even James Spann predicted this), snow began to fall and it didn't stop for 3 hours. I have never, ever seen snowflakes like this in Alabama. I ran upstairs and got Noah up from his nap (you have to understand how excited I was....Noah's nap time is precious time to me, its called "peace and quiet time"). I was so excited, I sent them outside without coats, then I realized it wasn't going to stop, so I bundled them up and they spent the next 3 hours enjoying our sweet gift from above! I couldn't help but smile and think that this was snow was sent just for me. </div><div></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;">From Beside Still Waters, Charles Spurgeon</span></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;">" This is how to deal with God. Praise Him before you are delivered. Praise Him for what is coming. Adore Him for what He is going to do. I do not think there is a sweeter song in God's ear than the song of one who blessess Him for grace that has not yet been tasted, who blesses Him for answers that have not been recieved but are sure to come."</span></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;">Habakkuk 3:17-19</span></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;">17 Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls,<br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;">18 Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior. </span></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;">19 The Sovereign LORD is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights. </span></div></div></div></div>Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-16943827770806970402008-01-07T09:08:00.000-08:002008-03-24T18:50:57.102-07:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7baTpr73PNkRqWUMlyvpQvua5Jt54u3z7P61HvXT-nKfAfliseMIRWVBVBaFiS4OS3bm3g7QCCOJExeaLUc0uxqXe4NhkQYqZM93mrUwweUHWXQBJD-TjUYVU6iMLFXebR76rZB2zDxA/s1600-h/100_3304.JPG"></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgso1CqjPejAzohwIEvX5W3ZWWKcIhLCsqxa5hckxtOy63yR64fPG7v7vpTCQbZMMW9Kyaqw0XknMnhX9ZSDKzOgrLpiIIOgELCnxGt780R-_YgmSxJni2HefN1ZBbEN8fC3baFxB0LfjQ/s1600-h/100_3263.JPG"></a> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Thank you for sending me your e-mail addresses this week. I am compiling a list of viewers over the next few weeks. I appreciate all your sweet e-mails, its really amazing and humbling to know how many people are praying for our family. Words can never express our gratitude. We will have our blog open probably until Sophie's birth, then it will be private. I hope you can understand. We would like to share our adoption journey with friends and family. Actually, I don't mind if I don't even know you, just send me a short e-mail letting me know who you are. I am currently following many adoption blogs of people I don't know personally, but we share a heart of adoption! Please continue to send your addresses to </span><a href="mailto:aimeeweathers1@yahoo.com"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">aimeeweathers1@yahoo.com</span></a><br /><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I have added some pictures of when my dad came to visit after Christmas. YEP, the grandparents outdid Santa and Noah has not gotten off the John Deere tractor in days! (Don't you love the CAT hat??, Thanks Mr. Don!) He has scooped up every bit of sand/dirt/rocks in our backyard! Hannah Grace got lots of new clothes and shoes from her Paw-Paw. Dad made it just in time to watch the football game! It was great having my dad and sisters here for a visit. I wish he lived closer. </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">This past week has been hard. Plain and simple. I am just being real and honest. Knowing that our time with Sophie is drawing shorter, makes this whole thing seem like a true living nightmare. Can this be real? Is this really happening to us? It's in times like these that the ONLY thing that brings peace is our hope in Christ. I am constantly reminding myself that God is faithful to His children and He will bring us through this. One of my favorite verses is "The Lord <em>keeps</em> all those who love Him. " Psalm 145:20. And although I would like for things with Sophie to be different, deep down, I only want what His will is. How could I not? God is God and I am not. It may be months from now, years from now, or maybe we will never know... but I feel certain we will look back and be able to see God's hand at work through this trial. Sophie Ann and all that we have learned during this time will bring a gentle smile to our face, and we will praise God for His faithfulness! </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I have been reading a great book all about God's sovereignty and I highly recommend this book! Its by Kay Arthur, "As Silver Refined". It's one of those books that you just can't put down. It has been great encouragement to me. I find so much peace when studying and reading about the sovereignty of our great God! I can find joy amidst a trial knowing that nothing has "surprised" God, He has known and ordained this before the beginning of time. I find rest in that. However, I hope you see that I am real, I don't like this, I cry, I think about Sophie and want to throw a tantrum, as a matter of fact... this is pretty much the worst thing that has ever happened to me....BUT. I know I am a child of God, I trust in my God, He has always been faithful to me...And He will carry me through... I will be changed and He <em>will be</em> glorified!!</span></div><br /><br /><div></div></div>Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-52685720775111288562007-12-29T14:17:00.000-08:002008-03-24T18:51:40.281-07:00Christmas Blessings<div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh5tvHhfwfMK4Q8rxY1DsTfpbN9zpIpKXnf3QTVvWDAau91Ms4q3JUbB_IeBQHsDB8fWZGSWhc-fDmSsDsIZvYMuMsWTAb9dWT-VOC2ubUB_m13-K-98RWpniR3jvqaqhzEC6JLW1HXrM/s1600-h/100_3233.JPG"></a><span style="color:#006600;"> Noah and his new Diego bike<br /></span><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9U97KwzOoqJG9klwMXzugj5T8Me6RktFntormaEzxHfhoSEb2P5N0Ts8FE8vzr04MolJUIQrZfJKETPkBE825ozZpxVS0uUEpypa1Btv4m_7k_XFysCPRgLlBxMusA_2BidNWTat0Hds/s1600-h/100_3252.JPG"></a><span style="color:#006600;"> Hannah Grace and my mom-And of course, </span><span style="color:#990000;">SAMANTHA!<br /></span><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip7ZqzNQVZE2SxSJyumonJUwD0V2qncL0WsnhlVIzozr0tXSX_UFYuThrso0bC5Ssp4F9M49KmmmJUX8aIfoh-16P0zibUFmX6GaNIt2KjSk71MSDaonNCBXQBA2kNfhvf4TaxeUFH43s/s1600-h/100_3245.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5149537926658415490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip7ZqzNQVZE2SxSJyumonJUwD0V2qncL0WsnhlVIzozr0tXSX_UFYuThrso0bC5Ssp4F9M49KmmmJUX8aIfoh-16P0zibUFmX6GaNIt2KjSk71MSDaonNCBXQBA2kNfhvf4TaxeUFH43s/s200/100_3245.JPG" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#006600;"> Carlton and I at my Mom's<br /></span><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNwnDmxrk-k0i4wVM58jy8YpW27OgUrcILkSjRwKZS84W6z0XTqG0Nnz95moLu-7w6iPuY8ByghpA8zKMYcbSU22lUpV1vhgx8nMhQ5rd3xyWuS-Ik_RrIJYrO9joLo4cGT5cDaR6xI_U/s1600-h/100_3232.JPG"></a><span style="color:#006600;"> Shoes just like Mommy!</span><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA2QAg6KiYYBVDeaAtvYD3Mfppup7g93Krr5CIxwe-PMBj22Pttj8ljhPIiSxWKl51fKV7J9yIwjcbFlbNFPVPW9v5DydQIjZ5waF2XbK6BAQj7ewOLDQTvsXTS5zx9HfBYdWKLmmy6c4/s1600-h/100_3224.JPG"></a><span style="color:#006600;"> A tractor movie from Daddy</span><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggA7crccUtdvQmb8Slxmpt9edLM-LJb1buFIO-sqgTkHhPZtzGkBZijZ9IUWjXs9skzA7hvm4MLxV1m2SX1w42x2CmbNcpw6tZyfHe_Hv5t8FH3tqlpA0Tjm_pRidc2xxdqPA21ZMWdfs/s1600-h/100_3211.JPG"></a><span style="color:#006600;"> Leaving cookies and milk for Santa</span><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja0yrntxXwaDH5kQJiAwHsgYRPh0ya1jZWHOOmGEpvkQypwU1Xp8KKjbOGuzyY5mu0Ic5KrbZlZpf1jhQjeXgBKVxof0z8SYaC_VZp1eKpvg-1gieSUaDKLSGwPRyrcJkI6JHkzcG3W6g/s1600-h/100_3209.JPG"></a><span style="color:#006600;"> A Birthday Cake for Jesus</span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Hello Friends!</span><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">We hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! We really enjoyed being at home on Christmas morning. It was a little crazy getting the kids out of the house and away from all their new toys, but...we got packed up and out of the house and off to Mississippi by 1:00pm. It was so good to be back at home with family. My mom had promised not to "over-do" it this year with presents..but once again...we were spoiled! It was total chaos for at least an hour. We tried to do this business about "one at a time". Well, that didn't work out too well. The kids were nuts..ripping open paper...screaming...running around on a complete sugar high. Oh, what great memories! Afterwards, we all piled up on the couch and watched the Griswold's Christmas Movie. Eddie always makes me laugh, year after year. I think we can quote the entire movie now. We spent Christmas with Carlton's family on the 28th. Over 30 people were there this year! </span><br /><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">We have wonderful news! Karla called us the day after Christmas and told us that our fees that were due in December were paid! Thank you Lord! It is just truly amazing how the Lord is providing for our sweet Lily. Here is where we are in the process... Our homestudy had to be re-written to include Sophie, that has delayed us about 3 weeks. It looks like we will be getting our dossier off to China around the first of March. This is (DTC for short). This is a BIG step...and yes, we are going to have a party the day it is mailed to China. :) We are looking for a Log in Date (LID) around May. We are praying for our referral to come soon. Please pray that Lily will be on the April/May Referral list (or sooner!!!!). There is actually a waiting list to adopt a Special Needs child from China. Lifeline is receiving a new list in Jan./Feb. and we are getting very close to being on the top of the waiting list. Our next chunk of fees will be for travel (about $6000), and Fees in China ($5000). We know with confidence that the Lord has called us to this amazing journey of adopting Lily, and we know that He will provide a way for us to do this. It's so awesome to look back to May of 07 when we decided to follow God's call and begin this journey of adopting Lily. Little did we know, at that time, the road that would lay ahead of us. But, we know that this is all part of God's amazing plan for our lives. He has chosen to use this time in our lives to grow us in Him in an intense way. It has been hard, but each day we are being refined to be more like Him. This whole process (the past 8 months) has taught me so much about real faith. Its about giving up total control and allowing God to do His work in my life. </span><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">Please continue to pray:</span><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">-A speedy referral from Lifeline, we can hardly wait to see our little girl's face</span><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">-Hannah Grace and her understanding of our circumstances. </span><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">-God's wisdom regarding decisions being made for Sophie Ann</span><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">-Clear mind for Carlton when he is studying</span><br /><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">Will write again soon,</span><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">Aimee</span><br /></div><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#993399;">Carlton and I have decided that it's best for us right now to have a sign-in for our blog. PLEASE e-mail me your e-mail address if you would like to be added to our list of blog viewers. Once you sign-in the first time, your computer will "remember you" and you won't have to sign-in each time you acces our blog. Please e-mail me this week, if possible. Thanks!</span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#993399;">My e-mail: <a href="mailto:aimeeweathers1@yahoo.com">aimeeweathers1@yahoo.com</a></span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#993399;">Please remind me who you are. :) </span></strong></div><div align="left"><br /><br /><br /><br /></div></div></div></div></div></div>Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-84172183984197452342007-12-19T12:39:00.000-08:002008-03-24T18:51:55.259-07:00<p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFYxM4WkSszme1IxBYjBooGW7dnRvRJkzwRzOplj4cTaUpvRHu3vjcrDyh5nzFauL3YzlmblyiEQtr77eqyV_EMtiBxFRYbtqPIVuMhw9sijyiwEiEtjsS_eoKsaPQPmSnQv-pA7CbAHc/s1600-h/100_3181.JPG"></a></p><div align="left"><strong>Bundled up and ready to see ZOO-LIGHTS in Birmingham</strong><br /></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="justify">From Beside Still Waters, Charles Spurgeon</div><div align="justify"><span style="color:#ff0000;">"The safest part of a Christian's life is during a trial. How we pray in adversity! We cannot live without prayer. We carry our burden to the mercy seat again and again. </span></div><div align="justify"><br /></div><div align="justify"><span style="color:#ff0000;">When we are depressed, ,we read our Bibles, we do not care for deceiving light literature. We want the solid promise, the strong meat, of God's kingdom. </span></div><div align="justify"><br /></div><div align="justify"><span style="color:#ff0000;">In adversity, we listen, we do no care for flowers and fine bits of rhetoric. We want the Word. We want the naked doctrine. We want Christ. We cannot be fed on whims and fancies now. We care less about theological speculation and ecclesiastical authority. We want to know something about eternal love, everlasting faithfulness, and the dealings of the Lord of hosts with the souls of His people. We walk lightly in the world and hold it with a loose grip. We expect to be often in the way, and we hope to be out of the way, because the world has lost its attraction. I greatly question if we ever grow in grace unless we are in the furnace. </span></div><div align="justify"><br /></div><div align="justify"><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span><span style="color:#006600;"><em>This is the way it should be: the joys and blessings that God gives in this life should make us increase in grace and gratitude. </em></span></div><div align="justify"><br /></div><div align="justify"><span style="color:#ff0000;">These joys should be sufficient motivation for the highest form of consecration. As a rule, however, most of us are only driven closer to Christ in a storm. There are blessed and favored exceptions, but most of us need the rod. We do not seem to learn obedience except through the Lord's chastening." </span></div><div align="justify"><br /></div><div align="justify"><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><br /></div><div align="justify"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>I am including this video about a mother who went through a similar experience as I am facing. It was a blessing to me, but grab a few tissues first. Click on the link below. </strong></span></div><div align="justify"><br /></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><br /></div><div align="justify"><a href="http://www.9news.com/video/player.aspx?aid=45602&bw"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>http://www.9news.com/video/player.aspx?aid=45602&bw</strong></span></a><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>=</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><br /></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><br /></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000000;"><em><strong></strong></em></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000000;"><em><strong></strong></em></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000000;"><em><strong>~Thank you for your continued prayers. Please pray that God will give us wisdom as we make decisions regarding Sophie's birth plan. </strong></em></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="color:#000000;"><br /><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><strong></strong></span></em></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000000;"><em><strong>Aimee </strong></em></span></div><div align="justify"><br /></div><div align="justify"></div>Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-19269091159706434292007-12-13T19:32:00.000-08:002008-03-24T18:52:13.557-07:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi83FCr5NtrRxOqdozprt-Ls5E2UH8woSnL7UNjxJtFWAT2QS-PVBDPrBwz6rOSLMHb_LLB9WIqO90O52T3k3E-ZMCOQkUUYd5JILJd1pwotM5B_YDbgHzkBzE4iuvYYhalZHj6FthoENw/s1600-h/100_3161.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5143680359225465634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi83FCr5NtrRxOqdozprt-Ls5E2UH8woSnL7UNjxJtFWAT2QS-PVBDPrBwz6rOSLMHb_LLB9WIqO90O52T3k3E-ZMCOQkUUYd5JILJd1pwotM5B_YDbgHzkBzE4iuvYYhalZHj6FthoENw/s320/100_3161.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIo_bLrCxslcWQICUzfJK1nrsEyX4YJygIPF77zx-xYeXvXA8Ixvv8RviVsl99KVmTBpTKZmdJxr3Eiq0DvuI7aTgrZo5iAZCGZrOzrjJZi_JrR75P7B6LkcNmsaI2V_t_61sbGfEPGpk/s1600-h/100_3160.JPG"></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMmHzlXE0b6OR2aRQ25mVPNAaXfqwQDkJgFsfucIdRpq1BeJioOxMWwYfkW1zMV7tJ2ll0MjW2UppBtfutRCBLjwyGY37_DDEwXxsG_PEpvLQzEoeBAr8FML9PZ1oYMQ27bLpaqlmvfGs/s1600-h/100_3171.JPG"></a> Our church's home school group had an "Open House" this past weekend. Hannah Grace invited several friends from church to attend. The kids sang some Christmas songs and each child did something special like reciting Bible verses, singing, or playing the piano. I was amazed at how brave these kids were. All the mothers jokingly agreed that maybe our home school kids didn't have the limelight enough, so they took full advantage of it! It was a great night. We were able to eat together in the fellowship hall afterwards and the children had lots of their school work displayed for everyone to see! I enjoyed being able to see what other fun projects the other students are doing. I learn so much from other moms who have "been there" a lot longer than me! Homeschooling has worked well for us so far this year. Carlton and I take homeschooling on a year to year basis and consider what is best for our child for that year. This year, teaching Hannah Grace at home has been a blessing. I have been able to pick and choose what curriculum is best for her. Being a former school teacher, I really enjoy going to the curriculum fairs. I was able to grab bits and pieces of many different curriculums and combine them all together for a perfect fit for Hannah Grace. We use Saxon math, Abeka Reading, Rod and Staff Reading and Spelling, and Rod and Staff for Science and Social Studies/Geography. We also take full advantage of our public library for unit studies and independent reading. I can't keep her out of those American Girl books! But, I have read a few, and I really like them! So, YAY!<br /><div>For all those that were unable to attend the Open House...you really missed a treat. Hannah Grace played "What a Mighty Fortress is Our God" and "The First Noel" on the piano and then she did her Bible verses. She got very timid when she went to the microphone to say her verses and big alligator tears started to fall. I motioned for her to come and sit down. Well, about 10 minutes later, she was begging Carlton and I to let her try again. So, she went back up to the stage and bless her heart...she started crying again. It was BREAKING my heart! I motioned for her to come and sit down. I kept saying, "Its OK, you did great." BUT..this time she refused to sit down. She was so determined to say all 8 verses. What a brave little girl.. she stood at the microphone and said all of the verses! Everyone clapped for her and I don't think there was one dry eye in the room! I was so proud of her. I couldn't believe that she had the guts to get back up there and be so determined. I have a lot to learn from my 5 year old. </div><div>Please continue to pray for us and little Sophie. I am currently almost 28 weeks along and starting to feel really pregnant! She is constantly moving and flipping around. Please pray that she will not stay breech. I can't imagine her staying in any position with all the flipping thats going on in there. We go back to see Dr. Daniel next Tuesday, can you believe its been 3 weeks? It seems like that's all I do, go to the Dr. Also, pray for Carlton. He lost his grandfather this past week. He preached his service on Wednesday and it was wonderful. But, it was hard because all we could think about was Sophie. We know the Lord is going to sustain us through whatever may come. By his grace alone, are we able to be strong. We know we have some tough days ahead of us. But, we know we serve a God who will never leave us or forsake us. </div><div>Will write again soon,</div><div>Aimee</div><br /><div>For the LORD loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones. . . - Psalm 37:28</div><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div>Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-50877706816844629142007-12-07T15:25:00.000-08:002007-12-07T16:01:55.704-08:00<span style="color:#000000;">Our visit to UAB was...well, let's say informational. I was able to ask a lot of questions...and I did. I wanted to know everything there was to know. I learned from a medical perspective, that after Sophie was conceived, one of the chromosomes was "sticky" and hung around when it wasn't supposed to. Basically, the dad gives 23 chromosomes and mom gives 23. Well, this time mom (or dad) gave 24. This is basically a "complete fluke". My doctor(at UAB) has seen one other case this year. And that's what he does all day...high risk pregnancies. Its extremely rare, that is to carry a child to term with a chromosome abnormality. Actually, chromosome abnormalities are very common, however, most end in miscarriage. He encouraged us to think about another future pregnancy, that our risk for recurrence is less than 1%. I think he was a little confused as to why we chose to carry to term... as most women terminate immediately. But, this was never even an option for us. Sophie has been created by God, and her life is in His hands. He will be glorified through her life and her death. </span><br /><span style="color:#000000;">We were also told Sophie's case is very severe (we already knew this), but her heart is healthy and he believes I will carry to term because of this. Sophie Ann is already 2 pounds and is measuring right on track. Sophie is amazing to have made it this far. She is such a fighter. Carlton said she is just like her mama...strong-willed and stubborn. I have to say, when I set my mind to something...I put my all into it, I give it 110%. And I believe Sophie has set her little mind to hanging on so that we can hold her and cherish her time here. No matter what the outcome, or how long we have her with us...it will all be worth it. 5 minutes, 5 hours, 5 days or Lord willing, longer. She will be worth every minute. </span><br /><span style="color:#000000;">In retrospect, I am glad I opted for another meeting with the doctor and another sonogram. I hope that our life and our view of life had an impact on the medical staff at UAB. I pray that the doctors see how special each life is and that terminating a pregnancy is not the answer. Just because a child is not "acceptable" in the world's eyes, doesn't mean that the child is not precious in the sight of God and every child deserves a chance to be held and loved. God formed Sophie with His own hands and she is perfect. </span><br /><br /><span style="color:#000000;">For Thou didst form my inward parts; Thou didst weave me in my mother's womb. I will give thanks to Thee, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Thy works, And my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from Thee, When I was made in secret, And skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth. Thine eyes have seen my unformed substance; And in Thy book they were all written, The days that were ordained for me, When as yet there was not one of them. (Psalms 139:13-16)<br /></span>Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-62615107206496459432007-12-01T12:20:00.001-08:002008-03-24T18:52:30.589-07:00Christmas Traditions<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuo-lKMPHCSBFJx_ocZ9tg7DJDsiK3ZzNTiqq6SUInwe587vRIQRwHiFeOWfe2DJ67gtpkQ1QSf5MAcCAdNdvdUZv0K5oRTiQQ8OTodGAFzLTRM8FrybMtvb0F0zUSCs3kzxpOnyjFty4/s1600-r/100_3103.JPG"></a> Hannah Grace, cousin Isabella, and Noah </div><div align="center">at my mom's for Thanksgiving.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9X5cYM_fhvTmIvklkSWV4-JnEWtqsjY63Cf3Bv_JNhHtcnwiTP5NO3YUEa6poCKOBDkPfr39IvdmM1dNUYRngt9Pgj91gewc7xBWLhew5ZeeKzpsy7xK1JbUXWu2OpZ7IXZYwXx7I0f4/s1600-r/100_3158.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5139114145936680994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVbaJT32fiDGX0EllJFgfNhhLIjDlvhDho-MW6bTbTl7EtUoDV51pFPMsVn1etOHjJi3cmDMy2zkyqEPhKRrp83PhZV7ziYLgeBvS2q5tGG3NJADB7XKO7D6VxiXo7mZYJ8ona5r4-VlU/s320/100_3158.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color:#006600;">I am so sorry for taking so long to post. We have been so busy lately..traveling home for Thanksgiving.. Carlton' s big 3-0 birthday, getting ready for Christmas. I talked Carlton into being Clark Griswald for the day, and he hung icicle lights for us outside (for the first time!). The kids ooh and ahh every night when we turn them on. Such little things can bring such great joy to children. </span><br /><br /><span style="color:#006600;">As many of you know, I am a big fan of family traditions. Sophie's little life has taught us so much about how valuable and precious our time is together and we have made our family traditions even more special this year. A special friend gave us a box of ornaments that are numbered 1-25. Each ornament has a verse written on it and a devotion to go with it. So, beginning tonight (Dec. 1), we will sit around the table and Carlton is going to do a family devotion. We will sip homemade hot chocolate and after our "mini-sermon" (is that possible with Carlton?? :) , we will hang the ornament on the tree. Sometimes, I will surprise the kids with small gifts to be opened. I am excited about this new tradition in our family. </span><br /><br /><span style="color:#006600;">Another change we have made is we have decided to slow down with our traveling and be at home on Christmas morning. My mom has moved her Christmas party to Christmas night and Carlton's family will celebrate on the 28th this year. I couldn't be more excited about being at home on Christmas morning! Hannah Grace and I are going to cook a big meal with everyone's favorite on Christmas Eve. She has really gotten in to American Girl books, so we might even whip up some recipes that are from the early 1900's. I look forward to this Christmas season. Jesus is ever so sweet this year!</span><br /><br /><span style="color:#006600;">Please pray for Carlton and I on Thursday. We have decided to return to UAB for another Level II sonogram and to talk to a genetic counselor. The last time we were at UAB, we were so stunned and shocked, we were unable to ask any questions. We already know that Sophie's diagnosis is not hereditary. The amnio confirmed this. According to medical science, this is a "fluke." Something that is not supposed to happen, a 1:12,000 chance. Of course, we know that this was all part of God's amazing plan for our life. I know this, and knowing God allowed this to happen, has made this process so much easier. Who better to be in control, but the God of the universe! BUT, at this point I just want to know the details of how this all happened <em>medically</em>. You know, from the very beginning, give me exactly what happened. Its just where I am in this process, I need to know medical facts. Dr. Daniel was supportive and immediately scheduled an appointment for me. I know this is going to be hard. I know I will have a bad day. I know this. But, its something I need to do. So, please, I am asking you to pray that I will be a reflection of God's glory and he will sustain me through our visit. We will be seeing a different genetic specialist this time. Thanks so much, and I will post again later next week after our sonogram. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;color:#ff0000;">"For if we live, we live for the Lord, or if we die, we die for the Lord; therefore whether we live or die, we are the Lord's. " Romans 14:8</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;color:#ff0000;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;color:#009900;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;color:#009900;">Please continue to pray that our adoption process will continue to go smoothly. Our homestudy is currently with DHR. </span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /></div>Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-70082814509595077642007-11-19T08:01:00.000-08:002008-03-24T18:52:51.496-07:00Giving Thanks...<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirqP4Wy5W5nHhFNh7a7LmyS8FqcT2O88Hym_5NDReA87DxR8rIbvHuYV6hV5bUTpItxOGnqYrgI8RanZjWg5FDWb8KrZSNxxS8kmsWG6RyAnYZQIq4-2buz9gQaF3idPV8SmNJnEfv29s/s1600-h/thanksgving+001.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5134737120866932162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirqP4Wy5W5nHhFNh7a7LmyS8FqcT2O88Hym_5NDReA87DxR8rIbvHuYV6hV5bUTpItxOGnqYrgI8RanZjWg5FDWb8KrZSNxxS8kmsWG6RyAnYZQIq4-2buz9gQaF3idPV8SmNJnEfv29s/s400/thanksgving+001.jpg" border="0" /></a> Hannah Grace's words of Thanksgiving<br /><br /></div><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpwxLJ8bkoyMOACYNzxLjM-COaSv2rnf-ne4en5NFrYNwAlnmQmuiw5la9_fcaOk0S5KDxggiQ0XQgpq8rRh13OesDCXqjoVu5z3G0RSrdZZX06knC09WFUi3RdOaRJBUpoNOmqSbsooA/s1600-h/100_3089.JPG"></a> <span style="color:#cc6600;"><strong>This time of year has always been a time our family reflects over the things in our life that we are so truly thankful for. This year, I have so much to be thankful for and it seems like this Thanksgiving, Christ is even more the central focus. Usually, as a family we will go around and talk about things that we are thankful for...many years it will include: our family, our health, our home, our church, our friends and so on. This year, God has proven to us that He is a faithful God who loves us dearly. I am so thankful for my sweet Savior who loves me and desires for ME to be like Him. How unworthy I am of that task. I just don't understand why he loves me so. But in His lovingkindness, he has sought fit to use life's tragic circumstances to draw me into a sweet relationship with Him. I have never known Him to be so real. He truly is a God of mercy and kindness. He loves His children and nothing will separate His children from Him. There is nothing that I can do that would separate me from the love of Christ. God has been so faithful to me over the last 9 weeks. I never imagined I could go on with life...but with each morning, He lavishes the grace that I need for each day. I do not fear the future, but I cling to the promise that my life is in His hands. I actually find a lot of hope in the future. I know that He has something wonderful in store for me and my family. During this Thanksgiving season, I am so thankful for Christ and His amazing love.</strong> </span><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc0000;"><strong><em></em></strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#cc0000;"><strong><em></em></strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#cc0000;"><strong><em>"How great is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the</em></strong> <strong><em>sight of men on those who take refuge in you."<br /></em></strong></span><span style="color:#cc0000;"><strong><em>Psalm 31:19</em></strong></span><br /><strong><em></em></strong><br /><em><strong><span style="color:#cc0000;">"Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever." </span></strong></em><br /><em><strong><span style="color:#cc0000;">Psalm 107:1</span></strong></em><br /><em><strong><span style="color:#cc0000;"></span></strong></em><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div align="left"></div><div align="center"><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div align="left"></div><div align="center"><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div align="left"></div><div align="center"><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div align="center"></div>Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-202760317707537552007-11-14T12:28:00.000-08:002007-11-14T15:54:37.217-08:00Thoughts on Sophie and Eternal Life.. From her DaddyAs a father, it is a dark nightmare to even write these words: My daughter is dying.<br />There is nothing that can be done for her by doctors, her parents, or any other person to prevent her death. I cannot express the pain that is in my heart and mind at this moment. One of the issues that rises in your heart when it is your child that is dying is, "How do I know that my child will have eternal life?" Most of you just read that sentence and thought, "Why would you think about that? Everyone knows that babies go to heaven." When you have never faced the death of your own child it is easy to just blindly accept that others teach that babies are covered by a special grace until an age of accountability, but trust me when it is your child that is dying, other people's teaching and belief is not enough to bring you comfort and peace. <em>I believe that Sophie, and other children who die, are saved and given eternal life.</em><strong> </strong>Why do I believe that? I base what I believe not on the fact that Sophie is innocent of sin, because she is born in sin. I do not base my conviction on an age of accountability, because the Scripture does not teach any such age. Why then do I believe that my daughter will live and reign with Christ forever? I believe that Sophie will be saved by God through the <em>sacrifice of Christ applied to her life by faith alone.</em> The simple way to say it is that she will be saved the same way I am saved. My belief is based on the passages that speak about this subject (Psalm 139, II Samuel 12:15-23, Jeremiah 31:15-20, and Matthew 18:1-14). God is merciful, gracious, sovereign, and just. My conviction about Sophie's salvation comes from my understanding of God's character. I hope in him and him alone! One day I will see my little one again. When I see her she will be praising her savior Jesus Christ. I think of it this way. When I get to heaven if I ask her, "Sophie, how were you saved?" She will say something like this, "Dad, I was not saved because I was a baby when I died. God saved me because he chose to be gracious to me and merciful. God saved me through the blood sacrifice of his Son Jesus Christ. God saved me through giving me faith in Christ as my savior. And Dad, the best part is.. he saved me forever! I am His child and all of the kingdom is my inheritance because of who Jesus is for me. Jesus is the treasure that we all praise for now and through eternity!!!" Those thoughts bring me great joy because they are rooted in God and his character, not tradition or other's opinion. I know this has been a brief explanation without alot of Scripture references, but if you would like me to send you some more detailed explanation please post a comment and ask me for a more in depth answer. I want you to be comforted by God, Christ, and the Word. Sophie is my daughter and I love her deeply. My heart will hope in Christ who is the captain of our salvation!<br /><br /><br />Treasuring Christ for Eternity,<br /><br />CarltonAimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-6602058625645647602007-11-04T15:15:00.000-08:002008-03-24T18:53:05.369-07:00Cookies and more...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiKyWDIBkR-7TJjrCh0cGnJNzWzv93vvSmOY4rN3x3eha4r_4CzvLgFrKuHLsv8_O-vanMP4VNcf3jz0_f-0uKEu9augO-iLJ-QL5YZIP1ak-17GHhT7vv4YCTzo2LBRTVxz1g01Cu6sY/s1600-h/100_3074.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5129133207836068818" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiKyWDIBkR-7TJjrCh0cGnJNzWzv93vvSmOY4rN3x3eha4r_4CzvLgFrKuHLsv8_O-vanMP4VNcf3jz0_f-0uKEu9augO-iLJ-QL5YZIP1ak-17GHhT7vv4YCTzo2LBRTVxz1g01Cu6sY/s200/100_3074.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaNUNO-TqbAGYdgYa7zR3Q-ItuLaCuhNebUtFcWLggUQsDlsLGz6Gk00H-2N0sLX3uecLISKG3uv4Lxdp22qMsVZKpj4u4K0XjUbQ91xe4w0lSr3aCprPjd-2XjvmtOvqvKYDcQq9UbXc/s1600-h/100_3073.JPG"></a> Dear Friends,<br /><br /><br /><div>I know I say this on every post, but I want to thank you for letting me know how Sophie is changing your walk with Christ. It does give me comfort to know that her little life is having such a huge impact on so many people. I have truly been overwhelmed by your stories. It also convicts me to know that her life is having such a impact on the kingdom, yet I look at my own life and wonder why I am not bolder in my walk with Christ. What an amazing little girl. The name "Sophie" means <em>wise</em> and she is far wiser than any of us. God is using Sophie to display His glory and I am humbled that He would choose my child for His great purpose. I mentioned to a friend today at church how I struggle with being joyful in seeing those come to Christ and grow closer to Him through Sophie's life, yet on the other hand, my flesh cries out, "I don't care about your salvation, I want my baby! Please God, use <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">somebody</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">else's</span> life to display your glory!" But, when I look at this life and think of eternal things, I am truly <strong>joyful</strong> at the end of the day. </div><br /><div>I am posting some pictures of the scarecrow cookies we made this past week. We had so much fun doing these cookies! They tasted great too! The recipe came from Family Fun magazine.</div><div>Aimee</div><div></div><div>Cookies- Sugar wafers(hat), Fiber One Cereal (hair), mini-chocolate chips (eyes), candy corn (nose), Chocolate sprinkles (mouth), and a cookie with icing!</div></div>Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-18165053390762027002007-10-30T15:42:00.000-07:002007-10-30T16:21:41.947-07:00<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6rJIiJpHLhA_4z2VBVVSxu1xnlAs2m2VaCP4lit1y24Y9kvILiRvKxt2HF7tmR6PUTNUTUVMwt7SgqdOOfJYunD9z9iIpMov_J2NNEIOm8r5kf_FUehFnBDfQ8TzF5Ne5-Wl02RHJLgc/s1600-h/ultrasound20weeks+001.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5127273014550498226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6rJIiJpHLhA_4z2VBVVSxu1xnlAs2m2VaCP4lit1y24Y9kvILiRvKxt2HF7tmR6PUTNUTUVMwt7SgqdOOfJYunD9z9iIpMov_J2NNEIOm8r5kf_FUehFnBDfQ8TzF5Ne5-Wl02RHJLgc/s200/ultrasound20weeks+001.jpg" border="0" /></a> Sophie's little hand. <div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYA5TJ2Oq7LVoJjxZSBC3AtOgNANxP69vQf6HS7AxFjwY_DDwq0ZQj04u4Fdf2uJ2ndWy_tVYkoeg-kQZAGxlyhehrqMwncbboMcgezgoaPA785b5nNlg7-4JcCecqBefRSc-Epu7LTnw/s1600-h/ultrasound003+001.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5127272829866904482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYA5TJ2Oq7LVoJjxZSBC3AtOgNANxP69vQf6HS7AxFjwY_DDwq0ZQj04u4Fdf2uJ2ndWy_tVYkoeg-kQZAGxlyhehrqMwncbboMcgezgoaPA785b5nNlg7-4JcCecqBefRSc-Epu7LTnw/s200/ultrasound003+001.jpg" border="0" /></a> Sophie crossing her legs<br /><br /><br />We had an ultrasound on Monday. It went OK. Pretty much the same as what we were told at 15 weeks. Nothing has changed as far as abnormalities. She has grown and is measuring correctly. I thought I was ready to see her on the screen, but it seems like every time we go in for a doctor's appt., I take two steps back. It was hard to look at her little body and know my time is limited with her. We don't really know how much time the Lord is going to give us, but we know that if we even have a week, we will be blessed. We plan to spend every moment with her and loving her. We have prayed and we will not take drastic measures to prolong her life (life support etc.). We trust our God to take her when He is ready. I want with all my heart to keep her with me, but it would be truly selfish of me to keep her from her creator's arms. She will safe and perfect with Him, and I know that heaven will be a sweeter place because I have a daughter who will be waiting for me. Until then, I will cherish the moments I have with her. She is quite a kicker and has kept me up at night kicking so hard! I have a few pictures to post. She was laying face down so we couldn't see her that well. The lady who did our sonogram was precious and let us look at her for about an hour. Dr. Daniel was also right there with me. How I thank God for him each day. I can't imagine this process without the love and support from a doctor who loves the Lord. He is just incredible. He is not only my doctor, but a friend and prayer warrior for our family. He is so patient with me and lets me ask him as many questions as I can think of. I ask him at every visit, "You mean you have never seen this before, I am your only one?" He always tells me, "Yep, precious, you are my one and only." Carlton also asked Dr. Daniel to be part of Sophie's services. He was very emotional and graciously accepted. Please continue to pray for us. Please pray for me this week. Its always hard to go back to the doctor. Specifically, pray that I would not worry about her suffering and that the Lord would be merciful and take her peacefully.<br /><br /><br />Enjoy her beautiful pictures,<br /><br /><br />Aimee </div></div>Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-79985790631420622582007-10-27T07:12:00.000-07:002008-03-24T18:53:18.689-07:00After His Own Heart<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzLiO7lP2wBlKcOR4Gu4_WdCGjs-Opi4G6D5f88uTGt_Z0sDPDR37c3aIMWBAgcodP0dS4viRJyYiFPMWsG6_jwNMEp-rdYAFnJvP_9cNVyHZUl21CJI7HMWtYw44z_wgCI6Dib-O4qQk/s1600-h/100_3051.JPG"></a>Noah (with his train hat) and Hannah Grace </div><div align="center">Fall Festival 2007<br /><p align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyks9HuaM5TeF03GtjGV_mJXrlM6SFReHYDgpbvJGK5mRq8fHH8J1WaW5cz7aEuBLmwDpbYmFgMc4ThgLVyV-BCPIl1D7sRHmeUZpFUD-N7XcaBgRjXDstQ0Y-LOjgEUYz6rsprkHE-es/s1600-h/veggie_pumpkin.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5126028350207986562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 66px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 61px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="175" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyks9HuaM5TeF03GtjGV_mJXrlM6SFReHYDgpbvJGK5mRq8fHH8J1WaW5cz7aEuBLmwDpbYmFgMc4ThgLVyV-BCPIl1D7sRHmeUZpFUD-N7XcaBgRjXDstQ0Y-LOjgEUYz6rsprkHE-es/s200/veggie_pumpkin.gif" width="160" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#663300;">Dear Friends,</span><br /><span style="color:#663300;">Thank you for your continuing prayers. You have been faithful to remain in constant prayer for us. There are many days when I am so tired and your prayers have been carrying me through. This week has been good. One of my close friends took me to a spa and it was incredible. I was completely pampered for 3 hours! We had a great time laughing together. Its amazing how a little pampering will lift your spirits! The kids and I spent some time Friday night making cookies (from scratch!) for our church's fall festival. Noah and Hannah Grace had a great time pretending to be little chefs. Can you believe I didn't even care that my kitchen was a complete disaster?? Or that my mixer blew the breaker! We tried to make pumpkin cookies, but they turned out looking like blobs and tasting like dough balls. We have never laughed so much! Hannah Grace said the cookies tasted like "healthy cookies." Not really what you are going for when cooking for kids! We are looking forward to going to the fall festival tonight. Noah can't wait to ride the "Thomas" train. I will be sure to take some pictures. Please keep us in your prayers on Monday. We have an another ultrasound. I am looking forward to seeing Sophie's sweet little face. But, I am dreading hearing any more bad news. Sometimes, I think, "how much worse could it get? What can they tell me that I don't already know?" It's also hard to hear it again and again. It seems like when I get myself on solid ground, we have a test result come back or its time for another ultrasound. But, I know whatever the news, it is ALL part of God's great plan for us and for Sophie. I will be sure to get lots of pictures of Sophie and post them on Monday night. </span><br /><span style="color:#663300;"></span><br /><span style="color:#663300;">I will leave you with a short devotion from a book a good friend gave me. Its from "Beside Still Waters", by C.H. Spurgeon. </span><br /><br /><span style="color:#ff6600;"><strong>After His Own Heart</strong><br /></span><strong><span style="color:#cc0000;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">-When your faith endures many conflicts and your spirit sinks low, do not condemn yourself. It was David in haste who said, "I am cut off from before your eyes" (Ps. 31:22). Yet there is David now in the blessed heavenly choir, for even here on earth he was a man after God's own Heart. (Sam. 13:14)</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">There is a reason for your season of heaviness. Great soldiers are not made without war. Skillful sailors are not trained on the shore. It appears that if you are to become a great believer, you will be greatly tested. If you are to be a great helper to others, you must pass through their trials. If you are to be instructed in the things of the kingdom, you must learn from experience. The uncut diamond has little brilliance, the unthreshed corn feeds no one, and the untried believer is of little use or beauty. There are great benefits to come from your trials and depression. </span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Many people have a comparatively smooth path through life, but their position is not the equal of the tested believer. The one who is much plowed and often harrowed will thank God if the result is a larger harvest to the praise and glory of God by Jesus Christ. If your face is now covered with sorrow, the time will come when you will bless God for that sorrow. The day will come when you will see great gain from your losses, your crosses, your troubles, and your afflictions:</span><br /></span><span style="color:#cc0000;"><em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">From all your affliction His glory shall spring, </span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">And the deeper your sorrows, the louder you'll sing. </span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span><br /></em><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Aimee</span></span></strong></p></div>Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-63781696948287299012007-10-22T18:50:00.000-07:002008-03-24T18:53:33.367-07:00Lessons from Sophie<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG7qXCgpB0th_oz9jvlXOvvJXe7CPyXCo4wCFoCW4uY2v4pbZnZ8OHsIG1pruN9OzHA5Brp0k-9egkqbT5jUBtnKGNxgSPNBmDoNkuIOE-4qn8QVPjp97dc_gDM-LH5OKlIN_ed-h2Hug/s1600-h/1002859_104.jpg"></a><br /><p align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh84VDI526Xs2CpeIQil-t8LdbfpA9zE78Ndaw6pJxIt_ai8OEc6MrSbSHi1nMU1nIT2789uaw-YPAEaSnHfSWyRtmInauTfZkfkhwvJM61fkf7597rc3etKi5n9icxiu2n6HSwNaQBrMI/s1600-h/1002676_078.jpg"></a></p><div><span style="color:#663300;"><strong>Dear Friends,</strong></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#663300;"><strong>Another week has come and gone and the Lord has gotten me through each day. Its hard to believe it will be 5 weeks on Friday since finding out about our little Sophie. Part of me rejoices in the fact that the time has picked up past a crawl, but the other part (I know this is strange), marvels in this time that I am having with the Lord. God is so good and His mercies are new every morning. For the first time in my Christian walk, I have had to be totally dependent on God each and every moment of the day. Its when I let my guard down, and try to handle it on my own, I fall. Sophie's life has forced me to become dependent on my Heavenly Father. And I pray, that this will become a life habit of mine. I thank God for allowing me to cling to Him. Its my personality to be independent and try to control the situation on my own. But, it feels so good to cast my burdens on my God and trust Him with my every need. What a relief! Why haven't I been doing this all along? I never knew the God of all creation could be so intimately connected with every fiber of my being. God has also taught me this week about how I can use my suffering to comfort other people. As Carlton and I were walking late one night, I told him about how I felt so helpless around others who were suffering in the past. I think I have only been to two funerals in the past 10 years, because I have literally been afraid to be around those who were suffering. How can you comfort someone if you haven't "been there". You can't. All you can do is say "I'm sorry", take them some food, etc. I am not saying you have to go through the same trial, but you have had to suffer to a point where your whole body has to cry out to God each morning, so that you survive the day. There is something about the comfort of others who have also suffered. I want to be around them, I want to talk to them, I want to listen to their words of wisdom. I know God is preparing me for circumstances down the road when someone will need a shoulder to lean on, someone to talk to. I am thankful that I can now be that person. I am not afraid of suffering, death, etc. I now know that God really WILL get you through it. I never truly believed this before. When I heard of tragedies, I would turn my cheek and think that would never happen to me because God knows fragile Aimee couldn't survive. Well, by God's grace alone, I wake up every morning and my life goes on. Yes, Sophie has taught me so much about life and how short and precious it is. I catch myself often staring at my children and looking at their perfectly formed features, but now I give God the glory! I don't think, "Oh, what a cute little nose and what pretty blue eyes like your Daddy", I now think. "The God of the universe formed you with His hands and made you beautiful. I will enjoy you today more than yesterday. I will teach you about your Creator. I will stop doing the laundry and cleaning the house... I will sit with you and sing to you, and read you that story for the 15th time. And I will rejoice in every minute of it." Thank you my sweet little Sophie, for teaching me the value of life and drawing me closer to our mighty God, the maker of heaven and earth. </strong></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#663300;"><strong>I will write again soon, </strong></span></div><div><span style="color:#663300;"><strong>Aimee </strong></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#ff6600;"><strong>"All praise to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. He is the source of every mercy and the God who comforts us. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When others are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. " 2 Cor. 1: 3-4</strong></span></div>Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987547324427368195.post-61843110932832125892007-10-15T12:42:00.000-07:002008-03-24T18:53:51.777-07:00For God's Glory<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihk7wYXBh9Y88kpOHY7qoXRV0y_DZv49APp3cPSIxFtiioXblMBHqxCi8GZMqLxEPmRPfuD6LeUMzkc8jeIDcJCdjb5hxpRqLaJ64bdKexE3CXiQiqiDoqHLgzblc6OkMQrod4pdEUKGw/s1600-h/100_3035.JPG"></a><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN6_iCQ_nEynqQq-iMQximM8CJ248Z3QipSC7OO88ta1Ax7bXqh3SYJgPlG_42heddn1zlpuWjK9GLyMFXlBukaAe_gFb5tq2PEce9biLzDevVs-bRL9efkl4Xs0OI_VGZWv7LfOy4Yoc/s1600-h/100_3034.JPG"></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip-LCc_4cao9PbS0wm-DxPvVyc38dCf02tHEwlZv80oUtO2fuTTCcmriH8FT6E0HKrsnNmTwXdGtws6ZfL43ZxGSuQVE9qFnNk42I4OkdkhMyBwCvV6q7P8piGSNAEkVSROujWqyAn1E0/s1600-h/fallpic.jpg"></a> </div><br /><br /><br /><div>We recieved news on Monday from UAB that the amnio confirmed what we had been told from the start. Sophie has a fatal chromosomal abnormality. I have actually dealt with the news better than I thought. Carlton has had a harder time this week. Looking at the amnio papers with all the little photocopies of her chromosones puts everything into reality. This is not a bad nightmare, its real. I have come to terms with it, and now I am beginning to enjoy every little minute I have her with me. I know this time is precious and I am determined to enjoy all the time I have with her. Only God knows when it is time for Sophie to be back in His arms, so we are trusting in His perfect timing. Carlton and I will begin in the next few weeks to start working on a birth plan. We want to make sure all the nurses are aware of just how we want things. Dr. Daniel has been more than a doctor. He has become a very close friend and prayer warrior for our family. I have never known a doctor like him. His love for the Lord is evident each time we meet and pray with him. He has been a rock for us. He is going to be right there with us through the entire pregnancy and birth. He is going to make sure all of our requests are followed closely, as we will only have a short amount of time and we want all of Sophie's time spent with us and our immediate family. </div><br /><br /><div>Last night, I picked up the book that we are reading in our Tuesday morning Mom's Bible Study. I haven't been able to go for the past 3 weeks, so I took a wild guess that they were reading chapter 6 this week. I flipped open the book and the title of the chapter 6 was "God Never Makes a Mistake." So, I propped myself up in my bed because it was obvious I needed to read this chapter...tonight! At the beginning of each chapter is a "chapter verse". It read<span style="color:#ff0000;">,"Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God shall entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right." 1 Peter 4:19. </span><span style="color:#330000;">What comfort came while I was reading this...to know that my suffering is the will of God. As Christians, we are not promised a life free of suffering. But, we can have the assurance that God has allowed our suffering and it is for a specific reason. This is not a "fluke" or some random cosmic event, God ordained this before the foundation of the world. This is not a surprise to Him. He is using this to shape and mold us. He is using Sophie to bring others to Him. It's all about God and His glory. And I am happy with that. God is God and I trust in His soveriegn plan over my life. I will close this week with the words to a song we sang in church Sunday. The words never struck me like they did this past Sunday. </span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#330000;"></span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#330000;">"Its all about you... Jesus. </span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#330000;">And all this is for you, for your glory and your name. </span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#330000;">It's not about me. </span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#330000;">As if you should do things my way. </span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#330000;">You alone are God, and I surrender... to your ways."</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#330000;"></span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#330000;">Continue to pray for us. Your prayers are helping us get through each day. Thank you again for all your precious cards and comments on our blog. We are keeping all our blog posts and comments/cards/letters/e-mails in a binder so we will have them many years from now. I will try to post again soon. </span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#330000;">Love, Aimee and family</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#330000;"></span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></div></div>Aimeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05238452707543113016noreply@blogger.com3