.Penelope Layne Miller: A Birth Story.

Monday morning Adam received a phone call from an unknown number around 7am. In his sleepy state he answered, but no one replied. He turned over to see me wide eyed and rather annoyed at this mystery caller for waking the two of us. Adam decided to shower since he was now awake and I tried to find a comfortable position to fall back to sleep.

Then "something" started to happen..

I tossed and turned but could not sleep. My body was tense with cramping in my back and lower abdomen. The cramping reminded me of menstrual cramps only the pain occurred on and off instead of a consistent ache. I got out of bed to use the restroom and the cramping suddenly became a sharp pain like one gets before having diarrhea. I sat in the bathroom for quite a while with jelly like legs and chills confused by my body.

For the next two hours I went back and forth from my bed to the bathroom. Sleeping did not and would not happen at that point so I did my absolute best to turn my feelings of frustration and annoyance into prayer. I remained laying on my left side but soon found myself walking around in circles in my bedroom. The pain increased so much so I had to get up and walk it off.

Then it hit me..

Could I be in early labor?

I tried to deny the inevitable and continued to redirect my thought process to something other than labor but failed time after time. I reminded myself my due date was a week away and my last OB appointment, just two days before, revealed my body had only progressed to 1cm. I simply could not be in labor..no way no how!

Around 9am the shooting pain and cramping did not diminish, in fact it intensified. I timed my contractions and watched as the increments between them went from 10 minutes apart to 7 and then to 5 all within a few short hours. My body could not lay down or even sit anymore as the pain caused me to jump to my feet.

I texted my mom..

I contacted her the first time at 10am saying the contractions felt 'different' than the Braxton Hicks ones I had in the days prior and thought this could possibly be it..you know, labor. She texted back and asked if I could walk during these contractions. I could. This led my mind from "I'm having a baby," to "Come on Katie, you're fine," with each passing second. Every emotion played throughout my mind--excitement, denial, fear, happiness, anxiety, giddiness. I did not know what to do so I took a long, hot shower. I shaved my legs as a 'just in case' and continued to have contractions throughout my shower. I convinced myself the contractions eased up and I would not go into labor.

After my shower I debated doing my hair and makeup, again as a 'just in case', but instantly brushed those thoughts aside when a contraction caused me to grab onto the wall and bend over at the waist. At this very instant I knew..

Yes indeed, I was in labor and had been for hours.

I got dressed and opened up Gmail chat. Adam and I asked the usual questions to each other, "How are you? How's your morning going? What are you working on?" and then I spilled the beans. I told him things were happening and that I may need him home later in the day. We ended the conversation with Adam telling me, "Just call, I'll be ready. Love you!"

I anxiously walked around our bedroom looking at the mess of laundry piles and laughed out loud remembering what I told Adam last night, "I will work on laundry tomorrow and even start packing!" That phrase was a popular one during my pregnancy and caused me to laugh at my procrastination. I searched for clean clothes to fill our carry sized suitcase to take to the hospital as well as clothes for our baby girl. Packing was interrupted again and again by stronger and longer contractions. By noon, my contractions were 3 minutes apart.

I called Adam.

He came home around 1230pm and walked into the house to find me watering my plants. He responded with a smirk on his face, "Really Kate?" as I explained the plants were my babies too and needed water since I did not know how long we would be away. He rolled his eyes. We packed our hospital bag, prepared Colden's (our dog) things for his stay at my in-law's house, and ate lunch together. I ate a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Two of them.

My contractions remained 3 minutes apart for the next few hours each one lasting longer. Adam and I knew what this meant but we denied the truth a bit longer and decided to stay home and watch an episode of Fringe. We laid in bed together. Adam rubbed my lower back and I timed my contractions. I missed most of the show due to shutting my eyes, holding my breath, and praying through each contraction. My body felt miserable at this point and the shooting pains spread everywhere--up my back, down my back, down my thighs, across my hips, and up my stomach. I used the bathroom when the episode ended and saw the last bit of evidence I needed to finally accept my body was indeed laboring.

At that moment I said, "It's time. Let's go."

Adam loaded the car and helped me get in at 4pm. We headed to his parent's house to drop off Colden. He watched me as he drove and held my hand the whole way. He pointed all of the air condition vents in my direction and did his best to drive fast but smooth. My body felt pain, excitement, and more pain. Every bump in the road caused discomfort to my body, mostly in my lower back. I gripped Adam's hand as my face winced and turned red with each contraction.

We pulled into the carport of the hospital and walked into the building together. Adam then parked the car. I kept a pleasant look on my face, a smile even, as I waited for Adam to return. I greeted the ladies behind the desk and awkwardly took a seat. Adam entered the building and we rode up the elevator. The doors opened and we stepped into a new area of the hospital.

The 'Labor and Delivery' floor..

The clock on the wall read 5pm. I checked in and dealt with a not-so-nice nurse. Adam waited inside the room as I changed into my gown. He helped me into the hospital bed and we just stared at each other filled with nerves and giddiness. We talked, laughed, and freaked out together in between contractions. A new nurse entered our room and smiled at me. I smiled back and knew it would all be okay. As the nurse asked me questions and typed things into the computer something happened..

My water broke.

Only 5 minutes had passed since I sat in the hospital bed, only 15 minutes had passed since we entered the building. Embarrassed and rather grossed out by what came out of me, I apologized to the nurse and doctor who came in to check me and cracked a few corny comments to lighten the mood. They all laughed and Adam kissed me while he whispered in my ear, "You are a treat to them!" I smiled.

The doctor checked to see how my body had progressed and within seconds he said, "I see dark hair-lots of it!" My body progressed to 4cm dilated and 90% effaced. The nurse officially admitted me and walked Adam and I down to our room after monitoring my contractions and our baby's heart rate. The walk down the hall took a little long due to powerful contractions and the hilarious looking "tights" I had to wear.

We settled in the very spacious birthing room around 630pm and watched a video on receiving an epidural. During the video, Adam leaned in to ask how I was doing already knowing what my response would be. We laughed at the situation before I could even answer--strong contractions on top of each other, the nurse hooking me up to machines, buzzing hospital room noises, bright fluorescent lighting above my head, and to top it off a video about huge needles..

..I felt GREAT ;)

The laughter and conversation soon came to an abrupt stop. My body and brain did not know how to handle the heightened pain. I needed Adam by my side but did not want him to touch me during the contractions. The extra movement on my body from him rubbing my lower back caused even more discomfort and pain. I went into a Katie-God-Prayer-"Happy" place and tried to stay there but failed numerous times focusing only on the pain and when it would end. My lower back sent violent pains shooting up, down, and across my entire body. I shut my eyes hard and covered my face with my hands. I gripped the side of the hospital bed. I became tight and contracted my body inward.

At times I moaned and groaned and asked when it would be over while other times I remained silent and calm.

Adam and my nurse encouraged me until I made the mistake and asked my nurse when this would be over. She replied that she did not know but that it could be hours from now and my pain would get 100 times worse. This scared me and caused me to really doubt my ability to handle that kind of pain. I knew the amount of pain I was currently experiencing and could not imagine it getting any worse. Little did I know at the time my body was moments away from pushing and fully dilated.

I asked for pain medication at 830pm.

My nurse struggled with my IV as she attempted to get it 5 different times each in a different location on my arm and hand. I did not notice because I continued to deal with the pain from the contractions. Adam helped me by bringing cold, wet washcloths that I used to cover my entire face. The cold water felt amazing on my hot sweaty head and surprisingly brought relief. Adam scurried back and forth between the bathroom and my bed bringing the washcloths as the nurse continued to work on my IV. I kept telling myself, "Medicine is coming soon, medicine is coming soon, just hang on, just hang on.." The nurse finally got my IV in and hooked me up to pain medication.

This did absolutely nothing for the pain..nothing..

I was extremely discouraged when the medicine brought zero relief to my body. I lasted through a few more contractions until the word epidural came up. My nurse helped roll my body to my right side to start preparing for an epidural if I chose that route. After she turned me over the next contraction is one I will never forget. It sent my body into forceful, extreme pushing mode. I had no control over it. I gripped onto the side railing of the bed as my body contracted and pushed all on it's own. I let out a cry. I was scared. It hit me for the first time that it did not matter if I was mentally or emotionally ready, my body was ready physically and I would be having a baby soon! After that contraction ended, I felt our baby's head down and ready. I had never experienced so much pressure before. I could feel her coming everywhere--surprisingly, mostly in my bottom.

I said yes to an epidural.

Within minutes, the anesthesiologist entered my room and prepped my epidural. Adam and my nurse helped me sit up and set me in position. I wrapped my arms tightly around Adam and smushed my forehead firmly against him. I became safe and at peace in his arms and felt our Heavenly Father work through Adam in that moment. I only felt the pain from my contractions as I received my epidural and focused on not moving a muscle. I struggled with guilt as I sat up right fearing I would hurt our baby's little head. The epidural ended a few contractions later and mentally I could feel myself calming down.

As the anesthesiologist cleaned up her station a new doctor walked into the room. Adam and my nurse helped lay me down so the doctor could check my progression. She instantly said with a smile, "You are ready to push! 10cm and 100% effaced!" I smiled and shrugged at the same time. I asked if I could at least wait 10 minutes or so for my epidural to kick in.

I could not..my baby girl made it clear she wanted out!

The doctor and anesthesiologist left the room together. It became quiet and peaceful. Adam held my left leg and my nurse held my right leg. It was just the three of us. I began to feel the epidural slightly in my right leg by the tingling, pins and needles sensation. I knew exactly when to push because I continued to feel my contractions though the pain had dulled. My nurse told me how long to hold each push by counting through each one and encouraged me the whole way. After 2 sessions of pushing 3 times, my nurse explained the quicker I could push after each initial push the faster the baby would come out. That is all I needed to hear and after the next 2 pushes my nurse excitedly shouted for me to stop.

Stop?!!?..

My baby's head was crowning as my nurse called for the doctor. The stretching pain felt awful and I simply wanted to keep pushing but refrained. Minutes later the doctor entered the room. She very calmly told me to do a little push and as I did she said, "Stop, her head is out." After two more tiny pushes the shoulders came out and I heard a faint cry.

Our baby was here.

Penny had arrived and the doctor immediately placed her onto my chest. As I felt her perfect little warm body the tears formed. One look at her and the tears unleashed. I glanced over at Adam in disbelief that this beautifully formed person came out of me and is ours to keep.

I cried loud and ugly. I could not contain my emotions for our baby girl, they hit me all at once--It was like a dream. A painful, beautiful, and perfect dream. Adam cut the umbilical cord as I held our daughter. I cried and stared at her precious face. I embraced her warm pink body against mine. I felt her skin on my skin..felt her heartbeat and my heartbeat and I knew..

..I loved her, I loved her more than I ever thought possible.

The moments after Penny's delivery were surreal. Everyone in the room was busy and everything was moving fast while time stood still for Adam, Penny, and I. The three of us were in our own little world. Adam held my hand as I held Penny's. I kissed my husband and my baby. We prayed and thanked the Lord for this precious gift. We remained focused on one another as the doctor stitched me up after a severe tear. When my hour of skin on skin with Penny ended, the nurses took her to examine and bathe. I sat in the hospital bed watching these wonderful ladies take care of my baby and smile at her. I watched Adam as he followed the nurses never taking his eyes off of his baby girl.

I loved my husband more.

I loved my Heavenly Father more.

I just loved more.

Penelope Layne Miller

Born on July 1st at 9:26pm weighing 6lbs 11oz measuring 19 3/4in long.

 Psalm 139: 13-16,

"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be."

.4 Years.

June 20, 2009 I said, "I do."

I never imagined I would love my husband more than at that very moment..

Today, 4 years later, I have experienced a new love for Adam. It is one that is difficult to express with words for it is deep and is a love only my Heavenly Father has provided.

It is beautiful.

This past year has been a different journey for Adam and I as my body has struggled consistently through our pregnancy. By God's grace, we are better people because of it. This pregnancy has made us stronger..it has brought Adam and I closer together as best friends and as husband and wife..it has revealed God's promises to us..it has taught us what loving each other looks like and how to serve one another..how to be selfless..it has made our appreciation for one another strengthen..it has made smiling and laughter more dear..

We are thankful and truly blown away how God has worked in us this past year. It seems every new chapter in our marriage gets better and I often wonder how and why I deserve this..

Our life is not perfect, not at all, but we have each other and do our best to follow God's word.

Adam Everett, thank you for choosing me to be your wife for life. Thank you for choosing to love me on the hard days. Thank you for choosing to view the cup half full. Life is better because of you! I could not have imagined anyone else to be the father to little Penny. I can already feel a new love brewing inside of me for you, a love that will burst into action the moment I see you hold her in your arms. I cannot wait to 'parent' with you--let's do this thing!

Happy 4 years mister, I love you!

.Let's start at the very beginning.

A very good place to start.

This is the first official 'baby' post and what better place to start then at the very beginning. 

--------------

I was born in November of 1986...just kidding, not that beginning. Let's start with Adam and I in our dating years. We found out quickly talking was something we both enjoyed doing--especially that boy of mine! The two of us discovered early on we shared a desire to become parents and to raise our children in a Christian home.  

Adam wanted four kids.

I simply wanted to be a mommy with no specific number in mind.

We both hoped (and still do) for twins.

We were married June 20, 2009 and introduced our first baby to friends and family a few months later. I should probably explain our first baby happened to be a furry, four legged little pup we named Colden. Our dog became (and still is) the source of much happiness for Adam and I and has continued to bring us together as a couple. It may sound silly, but having a dog really brought out what kind of parents we will become some day. There has been an array of emotions 'raising' and training our dog--joy, frustration, stress, comfort, anger, excitement, annoyance and most important, love. It has been a good little test run how Adam and I react under certain circumstances and has revealed our different strengths and weaknesses.

After our first year of marriage we discussed when to start trying for babies and thankfully, we were on the same page...not yet! We wanted to wait until our second anniversary to bring up the topic again. Welp, a lot happened at that time, one big thing in particular--we bought a house! This prolonged our decision to start a family but gave us extra confidence knowing we would raise our little babe in a safe and beautiful neighborhood.

Moving on to 2.5 years of marriage. It was time! We both were on board with the idea of actually having a baby but then got a bit scared (again) and decided to wait longer. Adam was then offered to go on an amazing business trip to Malaysia in which spouses were also invited. An opportunity like this would never happen again so with my husband's persuasion, we decided to travel around the world together. As a warm up for our big trip, Adam planned a surprise 'honeymoon' for the two of us to Iceland. Our experiences in these two countries were phenomenal and strengthened our marriage..and romance ;)

At the beginning of our third year we knew in our hearts it was time. God revealed an excitement and a desire to experience a new love, a love for a child...our child. We began 'trying' (aka having amazing non-protected sex) and after 5 months, it happened! I have to share the very first time we attempted to get pregnant...it was our first time ever not using anything and afterwards I broke down. I'm talking the big, loud, ugly cry. 

I freaked out.

I could not believe what just happened.

I was scared it would 'work' and I would become pregnant.

Friends, I was a mess..crying and laughing all at the same time. I was excited but nervous. I had doubt. I had worries. This all happened while still laying with Adam as he just looked at me like, "I thought this is what you wanted me to do.."

We laugh about it now. God showed me grace and prepared my heart and mind once again at the idea of becoming pregnant and becoming a mommy to our little babe. After the first few months of getting a false pregnancy test, Adam and I didn't know what to expect. Maybe this was going to be harder than we thought...maybe God had a different plan for us.

God is good and gave us both a peace about pregnancy and distracted us from 'trying and getting' pregnant to simply enjoying each other at times of intimacy. Before we knew it, Adam and I were falling more in love and our romantic relationship became new and well, FUN! And just like that--I got a positive test on November 1st.

We were expecting our first little babe!

--------------

This is truly a miracle and an absolute answer to prayer. You see, Adam and I have been praying for this baby since the beginning of our marriage. We have been seeking after God's will for our lives and for our baby. We have been trusting Him and allowing Him to guide us on this journey called life. We prayed consistently through the years God would begin molding our hearts to become the kind of parents our baby will need some day. 

Adam and I have fears and insecurities about raising a child.

We know what makes us feel uncomfortable.

This is why we have and will always pray.

The Lord provides strength, determination, understanding, mercy, confidence, and love--all of which are needed in my life and in Adam's life. We have discussed our baby and the fear of the unknown. What challenges will we face together? Will our baby be born with special needs?-- a disease?-- an illness? The truth is, only our Heavenly Father knows and only He will provide. Provide for me as a mother, provide for Adam as a father, and will provide for our child.

The other truth is our baby will be loved and loved greatly..it already is :) 

No matter what happens in life, Adam and I have faith in the Lord and in the creation of our baby. When I think about our baby's life, his or her heart beating and little body forming, I cannot help but find comfort in the beauty and truth of these verses..

Psalm 139: 13-18,

"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand-when I awake, I am still with you."

Here is our baby at 10 weeks!

Thank you for joining us on this new chapter in our lives. Adam and I are growing daily in anticipation for our baby's arrival. The due date is set for July 7th--bring on Summer!

.I'm Back with an Announcement to Share.

"Miller Party of 3"

"Miller Party of 3"

Coming to our home this July!

Adam and I are incredibly blessed and praise our Heavenly Father daily for this little miracle growing inside of me! Here I am with my 16 week baby bump.

 Many posts to come sharing all about our exciting news. 

I hope this explains my absence from the ol' blog for the past few months :) 

Stay tuned my friends..good things are coming!

.Celebrating a Life.

My dear Aunt Anne went home to Jesus at the young age of 64 on October 25, 2012.

She was diagnosed with a rare disease just 6 short years ago. We were all warned how rapid the disease would overtake her body and yet we are all left wanting more time. Just when I think my body can no longer produce tears, it does. They come when I least expect them and I am grateful for them. You see, there is an upside to my tears..

..they begin as tears of pure sadness but turn into tears of joy and thankfulness for my aunt is with Jesus in Heaven.

She is with her Heavenly Father.

She is in no pain.

She is not suffering.

She is rejoicing.

She is happy.

..and the best part..

I will see her again.

It is hard to find the "right" words to express my love for my Aunt Anne and how much she has meant to me. She has been a blessing in my life and even though she is no longer with us on this Earth, her spirit will always be alive and it will continue to help mold me into the woman I want to be. 

My aunt and uncle did not have any children of their own and instead of being angry with that aspect of their life, they turned every emotion they had into love. Love for me, love for my brother, love for their other nieces and nephews, and love for their friends' children. I am truly in awe of how my aunt loved me. I was her own. I had a mother-like relationship with her starting as a wee little baby, as an awkward braced faced pimple covered preteen, as the over the top moody teenager, and as the grown adult graduating college and getting married. She was there, always always there. 

As a little girl I knew in my heart my aunt had a strong love for me. She made me feel unique and special and to her, I was just that. It was not until I was an adult I learned she had this connection with so many people--talk about amazing! My Aunt Anne was truly given the gift of love and affirmation to touch so many people in her life that way. As a kid I would enjoy sleeping over at my aunt and uncle's house for many reasons big and small. Some of these included wearing one of my aunt's Lake George sweatshirts..cuddling in between my aunt and uncle on their back screened in porch..eating frozen pizza together at their small kitchen table, she was never a cook and never claimed to be..brushing my aunt's incredibly long, thin blonde hair for hours and trying on her headbands..receiving back scratches and tickles from my aunt's long, always painted in bright pinks and reds, nails..sharing morning tea, lipton only, with my aunt and uncle at their kitchen table..eating sweet candies with my aunt..watching movies as a family in their cozy downstairs..sitting in front of the fire on the floor just talking with my aunt and uncle..and during the holidays--staring at their work of art that most called a Christmas tree. 

Throughout grade school and high school, sports and education were important for my brother and I. It brings me such joy to confidently state there was rarely ever a game or important ceremony or school dance my aunt was not there for. When my parents could not make it to an away game for field hockey because of work, my aunt was there and win or lose she always treated me to dinner and ice cream. I recall so many times glancing up at the bleachers during a basketball game timeout and seeing her big squinty eyed smile and arm frantically waving at me. I can hear her voice shouting, "Go Katie!" over and over again..it is crystal clear and is the sweetest sound. My sweet aunt and uncle sat through long and boring dance recitals, band concerts, award ceremonies, girl scout functions, you name it--they were there. I do feel bad for my Uncle Will, that crazy busy persistant wife of his had him dragged to thing after thing after thing--no worries though, he learned to be a good sport throughout his 42 years of marriage! Like I mentioned earlier, my aunt and uncle did not have any children..we were their kids! For every special occasion, whether it be weddings or school dances, my aunt tagged along with my mother and I as we all went looking for the perfect dress. I used to tease and roll my eyes with my mom about our shopping days with Aunt Anne because woah--my aunt could shop!..Literally shopped til we all dropped! My mom would "argue" with my aunt about who was paying for my dresses and of course my aunt won. She would always win. Year after year we went dress shopping and it continued the very day I found my wedding dress. My heart is filled and lifted high when I think of that day through my aunt's eyes. She did not have a little girl of her own but had me and her dream of finding "the dress" came true..with me. I feel privileged I was able to give her that moment. 

During my 4 years at college, my relationship with my aunt and uncle changed a bit. I became distant--not on purpose but physically. Instead of living 15 minutes away from each other, I was now 8 hrs away in VA. Our visits became planned and mostly when I was on break from school. It was always a desire and a mandatory thing to stop at Aunt Anne and Uncle Will's house. As I grew into a lady and became more independent and confident, my conversations with my aunt all of a sudden became "real." We spoke about real things going on and more importantly, spoke about my faith and what God was doing in my life..and we talked about boys, college boys! My aunt listened to an overly excited, overly naive 18 year old talk about her first boyfriend...And was there as a heart broken 19 year old cried in her arms. I was able to talk to my aunt about my breakup and how God brought me through it. It was a beautiful thing to talk so freely to her about my faith and how it had changed and strengthened from when she heard me give my testimony at age 16 during my baptism. When a new boy came into the picture a little later, who is now my husband, my aunt was there. She met Adam back in 2006 and helped him learn all of the names of the Morrow family members so he would be ready for my brother's wedding. She hugged Adam and accepted him into the family instantly and told me, "he's a good one." As my relationship with Adam blossomed into something dear, my aunt was there every step of the way and celebrated with us over our engagement and was there dancing at our wedding in 2009.

My aunt was a spiritual person her entire life and she gives all the credit to her mother. I never met my nana, she passed away from cancer when my father was just 14, but have heard and read her diary. My nana, who I am named after--Katherine Theresa--is a child of God who is praising Him in Heaven. I am beyond thankful for my nana and the example she was to my aunt, my father, and the rest of their siblings. She was a woman of God who raised her children by God's word. My nana was a strong devoted Catholic woman and that is something my Aunt Anne followed. My aunt was devoted to her Catholic church but more importantly, she was devoted to the Lord. Years back in her adult life my aunt made the decision to follow God. She asked Jesus into her heart and to forgive her of all her sins. She understood God sent his Son to die for her sins to give her eternal life and rose from the dead and is alive in Heaven. My Aunt Anne had a personal relationship with God and it was something she held on to all the way to the very end and it brings me such peace and joy knowing she is with her Heavenly Father.

One of the greatest things I will take from my aunt is her love for family traditions and sticking to them. Our Morrow family is big-10 kids, 22 grandchildren, and 20-something great grandchildren--and she always got us all together. Christmas day was her thing..actually anything Christmas was her thing! She invited the entire Morrow family to her house every Christmas day afternoon for food, fellowship, sharing time, and gifts. Family was something my aunt held dear, she knew how important family was no matter what hard times and struggles came up--family is family. Having everyone gather in her home to celebrate, no matter what holiday or special occasion, brought her pure joy. Her heart would almost burst with energy, excitement, and love and it was evident to all. Aunt Anne and Uncle Will had other traditions which included mini vacations to Lake George and to Atlantic City. My brother and I were blessed to join them along with our other cousins. There are truly countless memories from our weekend getaways together. Lake George ones include staying at the Northward Ho and their fresh morning donuts..picking out a pair of new mocassins with my aunt at the shops in Bolton Landing..avoiding scary Frankenstein..trips to Fort William Henry..going on rides with my aunt and uncle at The Great Escape, buying and "testing" fudge..boat rides on Uncle Will's boat..playing track ball in the water..relaxing in Adirondack chairs. A few Atlantic City memories include staying at Caesar's Palace..dinner at the fancy-back massaging-high drink pouring-banana foster restaurant..sneaking into the casinos with my aunt and uncle but always getting busted..late night walks on the board walk..Aunt Anne getting bird poop on her nose..experiencing the awkward lady in the spa with my aunt and cousin..collecting shells on the shore..Uncle Will holding me for the big waves..and dressing up and posing for photos. I am excited to keep some of Aunt Anne's traditions going and to create new ones.

In my last post I had briefly mentioned a blessing that was recently revealed to me. I had starting writing about it when I received the call about my aunt. Adam and I were able to be in NJ for an entire week, at my aunt's bedside for her final days on Earth. It was hard and yet joyous. It was good to be there with my uncle and extended family members. Oh the blessing?--The blessing that was revealed to me recently is that I am an aunt.

I am Aunt Katie.

I have 2 nephews.

I have 4 nieces.

I have one more on the way.

I am an aunt.

My eyes immediately fill with tears at this gift from God. I get to be an aunt to Evie, Lily, Lukey, Lucy, Leeland, Emma, and little Chloe on the way. My Aunt Anne gave me the greatest example of who and what an aunt should be. I cannot wait to be the loving, energetic, always giving, thoughtful, spiritual, cool, forgiving, wise, pretty, committed, funny, intelligent, and hard working aunt for my little nieces and nephews like my Aunt Anne was and is to me. I am blessed beyond all measure for the family God put me in and for the family I will someday create with Adam.  I thank God for giving me 25 precious years with my aunt and for giving me time to reflect the lessons she taught me onto my nieces and nephews.

I love you Aunt Anne and will see you again!

Anne Elizabeth Scheidecker

June 2, 1948- October 25, 2012

.Saturday Pick-Me-Up.

There has been a lot brewing in my heart and head this past week. 

It's heavy and it's real. 

I have been trying to find the words to express it all but I am at a loss. 

When I woke this morning, I found my dog and husband asleep next to me. It reminded me of 

Psalm 118:24.

"This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."

I smiled and was reminded to be happy for all the Lord has given me..

Today, He gave me a new day. 

I wanted to do something small to bring a little "piece" of joy to my husband who threw out his back and has been out of work the past three days.

I came up with this:

My Saturday Pick-Me-Up was simple: 

Gluten Free Cornbread with blueberries and coffee. 

(I use this kind and love that it's available at our local Kroger!)

I am pleased to say it quickly became Adam's pick-me-up as well while he did a little work online.

 Thank you Father for all you have done and will do in this day. I praise you and rejoice in your promises!

 Happy Saturday everyone!

.8 days 8 nights.

That is how long most people in Lynchburg went without power. Our town has been filled with diligent workers not only from various parts of VA but also out of state--I saw trucks from FL and MS and am confident there were more!


This past week has been a long blur for those without power and those with power. Adam and I opened our home to friends and family and hosted up to 9 people, plus the 2 of us and 2 dogs, for meals-laundry-showers, you name it! We even hosted a last minute-throw it all together-go with the flow Fourth of July celebration for 11 people!


It was quite the adventure.

The Lord was really working in Adam and I to give give give! He stretched us and molded us into better people this week and I am blessed because of it. We were able to put our selfishness aside (easier said then done) and focused on the loving thing to do: helping others in need. 

My desire to have a large family actually grew this week (if you can believe it!) as our house guests woke every morning to a hot breakfast. I loved having everyone gather around the table and eating together, it was special. Adam and I lived in community this week and served our friends and family. It was difficult at times but worth the effort to live life together. Meals became more meaningful and the term quality time got redefined for us. 

This was not just happening in our home but the homes of so many. Everyone broke out of their comfort zone this week and worked together as one to reach the same goal: Clean and restore our town.

It was a beautiful thing to witness.

Our town is looking much better all thanks to the power workers, tree services workers, and the residents of Lynchburg who worked non stop on cleaning up the damage.

I am tired but blessed for this past week.

.ADK We Love You.

Adam and I were able to sneak away two weeks ago to celebrate our third wedding anniversary (which is actually tomorrow!) visiting our happy place:

 The Adirondack Mountains in Upstate New York.

Before I even really begin this post, I need to state one simple fact and that is

God has His hand in everything!

Adam is from Minnesota. 

I am from New Jersey. 

We met in Virginia.

We both LOVE the ADKs in NY.

How did this happen?

----------

I grew up in Northern New Jersey vacationing to the Adirondacks with dear family and friends. My mind and heart are instantly filled with precious memories when I think of two particular places: Lake George and Speculator.

Lake George was my family's getaway weekend destination growing up and gave me my love for all things outdoors and camping. 

Speculator is a small town in Upstate NY and the home of Camp-of-the-Woods. My church's senior high youth group would attend Camp-of-the-Woods every year for our winter retreat. After spending five days at camp four years in a row, it began to feel like a home and gave me comfort every year I returned.

----------

Adam grew up in Central Minnesota, hours (and hours and hours) away from the Adirondack Mountains and yet he became connected while attending college down in Virginia.

During his sophomore year at Liberty University, Adam's friend introduced him to Deerfoot Lodge and it was love at first sight..or in his case, love at first description. Deerfoot Lodge is a Christian all boys backpacking camp located in Speculator, NY. The more Adam heard of this Deerfoot, he knew he had to work there that very Summer.

And he did. 

Adam was known as 'Chief Adam' Summer of '05, '06, and '07. 

While working at Deerfoot, he would spend his days off relaxing at Camp-of-the-Woods and exploring nearby towns, one of which was Lake George.

----------

2006 was a great year because I met Adam and well that speaks for itself :)

 On our very first date Adam asked me if I enjoyed hiking, camping, and backpacking. He was obviously thrilled with my response of "yes" and told me I should work at Tapawingo, a Christian all girls backpacking camp. (Sound familiar?)

I honestly do not even remember getting a word in because he went on and on like a junior high girl talking about Deerfoot and Tap. It finally came out that the two camps are known as "brother-sister" camps in Speculator and that Tapawingo is affiliated with (you guessed it) Camp-of-the-Woods.

You can only imagine our conversation at this point.

"Oh my word--"

"Do you know--"

"What a small world!"

"Have you been to--"

"Me too!"

It was good friends, very very good.

The Summer of 2007 God saw His brilliant plan working just as He planned. Adam worked at Deerfoot and I worked at Tapawingo.

We wrote letters. Actual, handwritten letters to each other. 

Every single one has been saved.

We spent a few days off hiking, exploring, and falling in love.

It truly was magical.

God brought us back to the ADKs for our Lake George honeymoon in 2009.

----------

God is good. He has His hand in every aspect of your life. I did not realize it until recently, it was all God's planning bringing a Minnesota boy and New Jersey girl to the Adirondacks. What an amazing thing God created
for Adam and I:

A place that is special to us physically, emotionally, and spiritually..to us.


God provided us a solid connection with our hearts and more importantly, to His heart. I am forever thankful for the mighty plans of our Heavenly Father and for all the ways He continues to bring Adam and I together as one.

I praise God for pouring His love onto me and onto Adam. I praise Him for being omniscient. I praise God for His planning, for His promises. I praise God for blessing me with a husband who loves Him more than me and puts Him first. I praise God for everything He has given Adam and I. 

The list goes on in my heart and the Lord knows and feels it all.

---------

Now that I have gone in great details (whoops) on why we love the ADKs, I can finally get to our anniversary celebration!

Adam and I drove to Keene, NY to hike two of the forty-six high peaks. We stayed at the Roostercomb Inn and really enjoyed our visit. It was fabulous and great fun meeting other hikers, especially their dogs, and to cook our own meals in the shared kitchen. Here are a few photos of the place:

We enjoyed some gluten-free penne our first night in town and packed pb&j sandwiches, on gluten-free bread, for our hike day. It's extremely comforting packing a few groceries from home you know you can eat--we were thrilled to learn we had free access to the kitchen!

 Adam and I hiked Cascade and Porter, two of the forty-six high peaks. Adam is simply awesome and only has 11 peaks left to become an official 46-R. As for me, well I have only 44 more to go ;)

 The weather in the ADKs is sunny-stormy-sunny-stormy-sunny all day long, it's actually pretty cool. The clouds began forming as we were on the summit of Porter so we raced to the next peak, Cascade, and attempted to beat the storm. We failed but had an awesome time!

On the left Adam is standing on Porter and right standing on the top of Cascade which is his 35th high peak bagged--only 11 more to go! (Notice the clouds!)

 We ended our time in Keene checking out the local shops, all 2 of them, and bought a few goodies for our home to remember this special time. Adam and I ate at the Noon Mark Diner and check this out:

This is the perfect example of how God's hand is in everything! Seeing this menu thrilled me as well as humbled me in front of my Heavenly Father. He always reminds me to trust by blessing me with little things that bring smiles!

Adam and I ended the week in Speculator, home of Deerfoot Lodge-Tapawingo-and Camp-of-the-Woods! We were there not only to visit dear friends we've made over the years, but to celebrate the wedding of two great people. I will show photos from the beautiful occasion in a different post.

We ended our trip with an evening canoe ride on Lake Pleasant.

We had such a wonderful time together and left feeling energized physically, emotionally, and spiritually. It was the absolute perfect pick me up we both needed, thank you Father.

--------

Thank you for making it to the end of this post, it was a bit long :) 

I would love to know how God has revealed His hand in your life recently and if any of you have ever been to or heard of the places I mentioned in this post. 

Have a wonderful day!