De-Clare-ation

Mighty God

2011-09-24T01:09:00.000-07:00

Life has been difficult with the loss of my Mum, but I have had a wonderful feeling of comfort and guidance from my mighty Lord. The Lord is so loving and kind. He has guided me, given me strength, helped me to say the right words or to be silent (which is a huge task in my case!), and kept me well enough to help out with the family if needed.

I am now going through a relapse. I have tunnel vision, loss of sensation and strength in my right side and pain from my neck upwards but it really isn't bothering me. That is because I have the Lord with me and on my side, how awesome is that?

I am so privileged to have the Lord in my life and to be able to come to the Lord in prayer. Walking and talking with the Lord is truly marvelous! I don't do it enough and I wonder why, because when I am talking with the Lord, all things of this world fade away and become unimportant.

I have such a forgiving and loving Lord, I fail over and over again in so many aspects of my life and the Lord picks me up and guides me. Everything that happens in my life is what the Lord has allowed and it continually shapes me while I walk the Christian path in this world.

New Academy.

2011-09-08T01:46:00.000-07:00

My son John started his new School today. It is a brand new Academy called All Saints..

Here is a picture of him in his new uniform.

The loss of my Mum.

2011-07-29T00:33:00.000-07:00

I am not going to write in detail about my Mum's death , but I wanted to share how God upheld me through it all and still is.

My Mum died abroad whilst on holiday with my Dad a few weeks ago, it was sudden and unexpected.

I cannot explain the immediate feelings I had when the news was broken to me. But straight away I picked up my bible and sought scripture to comfort me.
The weeks that went by were filled with getting my Dad back home and then getting Mum repatriated. We were blessed that both went smoothly and as quickly as possible and the holiday company were brilliant in support and organising things.
I have two sisters and together we wept, sorted things out and supported one another. Our focus was to suport Dad and protect him if we could.
The funeral was this past Tuesday and it was hard but also made things feel final to me.

Many people all over the world were praying for my family and I, and I felt the presence of the Lord with me at all times even though at times I found it difficult to pray, read scripture and have quiet times with the Lord. The Lord completely understands how fragile I was and gave me strength I didn't think I had mentally and physically.

Below is something that was shared in our ladies meeting and I just love reading it.

I needed the quiet, so He drew me aside,
Into the shadows where we could confide:
Away from the bustle, where all the day long,
I hurried, and worried, when active and strong.

I needed the quiet, though at first I rebelled,
but gently, so gently my cross He upheld:
And whispered so sweetly of spiritual things,
though weakened in body,- my spirit took wings,
to heights never dreamed of when active and gay,
He loved me so greatly - He drew me away.

I needed the quiet, No prison my bed,
but a beautiful valley of blessing instead:
A place to grow richer, in Jesus to hide,
I needed the quiet - so He drew me aside.

I thank you for all you prayers and loving sentiments. Please continue to pray for me and my family as I am weak - but God is mighty!

Garden in bloom

2011-06-28T09:39:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share a few flowers that are showing off in my garden. I have them in all shape and sized containers and they are against my back wall.

MS NEWS

2011-06-28T00:47:00.001-07:00

MS News

MS cure a step closer with new discovery

Researchers believe they may have found a 'missing link' in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). Scientists say they have discovered a new molecule that could lead to a drug treatment to repair myelin, the fatty material that coats and insulates nerves. Damage to myelin can cause the symptoms of MS but there are currently no treatments to repair it.

The study, published in Nature Neuroscience, was carried out by scientists at the University of California, San Francisco, and the University of Cambridge, and funded by the MS societies of the US and UK.

The Independent- 27 June (Coverage also in The Times, The Telegraph, The Scotsman, The Herald, Press & Journal and The Sun)

Dr Doug Brown of the MS Society is quoted in several of the above pieces of coverage. Simon Gillespie was also interviewed by Sky News Radio, and Dr Robin Frankiln was on this morning's Today programme. Read more about the study on our website here.

New posts on my others blog

2011-06-09T00:23:00.000-07:00

I havent blogged much on here but I have been creating a little.
If your interested my other blog is here.

Wanted to share this.

2011-05-19T00:27:00.000-07:00

The Glories Of Creation

Through the woodland hear the echo
Of the birds that sing all day
And at dusk, amongst the shadows,
See the fox and cubs at play;
Badgers from their setts appearing
As the darkness veils the glade:
See the glories of Creation
In the creatures God has made.

In the garden in the morning,
As the buds burst into flower,
Bees collect the precious nectar,
Toiling on from hour to hour.
Spiders spin their webs of silver,
Architects and builders too;
Butterflies clothed in their beauty,
Decked by God with every hue.

Wolves and bears, and lions and tigers
Live in lands beyond the seas,
But the God who made the rabbit
And the little mouse made these.
Elephants that pull their burdens,
Camels crossing desert sand;
All of these, for His good pleasure,
In His wisdom God has planned.

Fishes in the seas and waters,
Creatures from the ocean deep,
Shark and dolphin, seal and turtle,
Each their place in nature keep.
Mighty whales with spouting fountains,
Swimming out so far from land:
All are part of His Creation,
All were fashioned by His hand.

Witnesses of the Creator,
Formed by His divine decree;
By His word brought into being,
Simply He said, "Let there be".
Thus beholding God's Creation,
Let us give Him all the praise;
Worship Him in awe and Wonder,
Now and through eternal days.

I got this from a friends blog and I wanted to share it.

the forgotten

2011-05-19T00:05:00.000-07:00

My life has been made to change direction with the progression of my MS.
In the end my husband and I came to the descision that he needed to become my full time carer.

Not enough thought is given to people who care for others.
Its saves the government a lot of money for a start and it changes carers lives forever.

WE are blessed we have God in our lives and I am married to my best friend. Its not always easy for either of us but I am convinced it has made us closer!

We do need to stop and think about the carers, they are a lot of the time forgotten.

New symptoms.

2011-05-06T00:35:00.000-07:00

I have been on a rollercoaster ride recently. My health is all over the place, but what is a little worrying is my memory.
I could not even remember my own address and phone number the other day. I completely locked myself out of my email account by using the wrong password too many times. (thankfully my hubby fixed it for me). I have forgotten my PIN number for my debit card on occasions too. I seem to get stuck in mid conversation with people so often now.

My head feels fuzzy, like in a haze - it is quite upsetting and embarrassing.

It seems to come and go, like there is pothole in the road, sometimes you miss it sometimes you hit it. I will discuss this with my neurologist later this month.

I am truly thankful I can feel the presence of the Lord with me. He knows what I want to say even when I don't in prayer. I can just sit quietly with the Lord, saying nothing in my times of confusion.

How wonderful is that! I am so thankful I am the Lords.

I would really value your prayers at this time.

Started steroids

2011-04-27T01:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the beginning of a three day IV course of steroids for me. The cannula went in first time which so rarely happens...
As I was having the treatment I started talking to another lady having it and it was so interesting.
She is taking a drug called LDN she had to get it privately described as her ( and my ) neurolgist will not perscribe it but will support you taking it.
She said it helps her sleep and prevents needing to use the toilet 10 times a night. She said she is feeling so much better in herself, partly to do with having a good nights sleep.
We exchanged email details and I am going to look further into it.
The pill that is hitting the headlines has got a license but has not been passed yet by the UK. My MS nurse thinks it could be another year or so before it is perscribed and warned me there maybe benefits in reducing relaspes by 60 % but its side effects are far higher that DMD 's.

here is a little imformation if your interested about LDN.

Low-dose naltrexone (LDN)

What is it?

Naltrexone is licensed in the UK to help treat people who are addicted to opiates, such as heroin. Advocates of its use in MS suggest it should be given at a much lower dose than usual for the treatment of MS (10-50 times lower dose).

What does it do?

Some research suggests that when naltrexone is given at low doses it triggers a prolonged up-regulation of endorphins. This increase may have an anti-inflammatory effect which could be beneficial in the treatment of MS. It has also been hypothesised that LDN may be able to reduce injury to the nervous system by decreasing the harmful effects of two types of chemicals called ‘free radicals’ and ‘excitotoxins’ (Med Hypotheses 2005; 64(4):721-4).

Would be very interested in anyone who has or is taking it and the pro's and cons of it.

Memorise Philippians in a year.

2011-04-26T00:32:00.000-07:00

I have joined in with a few other people to memorise philippians in a year. Great challenge!

If you want to join in go here and see how its going to be done.

My memory has definately been affected because of my MS but if you don't use it you will loose it is my motto.

Update on health.

2011-04-15T01:03:00.000-07:00

Well I have not written much about my health recently , so I thought I would update you all.
I have ove the past four weeks had serious problems with my left eye. It optic neuritus and I have pain aswell as vision loss.
I have been in and out of eye clinics having the same tests over and over again.. Oh well atleast my eyes have had a good MOT!
Looks like I am going to have to have a 3 day course of steroids as vision and pain have got worse rather than better. Steroids do help greatly but I gave it a little more time than usual to see if I improved by myself, but alas it did not.

I am quite relaxed about it all, whats the point in getting upset and anxious about it. God has seen me through it all and continues to be with me.
Its all in Gods plan. :)

Meet Bob the red clawed crab.

2011-04-12T01:24:00.000-07:00

The wonders of Gods creation never ceases to amaze me.

We enjoy keeping fish. We have one tropical tank that has one red clawed crab and a few neon tetra and one large cold water tank with four goldfish in we rescued from our pond during the winter. They would of died as the pond froze completely.(we had a very cold winter)
The crab I have nicknamed Bob, do not ask me why but it suits him. He doesn't do much and is a shy creature, but he kept still enough for me to take a picture.

Here he is.

He is quite small no more than the length of my little finger but he is quite handsome.
I find fish and the contents of a fish tank quite restful to watch.

Quiet here but pop by my other blog.

2011-04-01T00:28:00.000-07:00

I have been very quiet on this blog, but I am still around.
I have been busy creating in my spare time, pop over to my other blog and have a peek if interested.

I am starting a painting journal, and see how my heAlth alters my art. Should be interesting to look back on.

Filled with Joy and peace.

2011-03-04T00:21:00.000-08:00

I am still not well , I am unsure if I will return to a better state of health, but this has been such a positive experience for me.

I have never experienced such Joy and peace before. The Lord is so good! and I cannot put into words how thankful I am.

My exhaustion levels are at a all time high , my pain levels are high, my mobility is very limited but I am contented and at peace about it all.

Maybe it is acceptance about my situation. I have not given up I am just going with the tide rather than struggling and fighting against it all the time.
I still have lots of trials ahead of me but God is with me and knows all my needs.
How awesome is that?

A few verses that say it all

John 14:27

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

2 Thessalonians 3:16

Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.

My Ark

2011-02-09T00:26:00.000-08:00

A while back we had a visiting preacher. He covered many things but one thing that stuck in my mind is that he asked if we had an ARK that we can shelter in when life is stormy. By 'Ark', he meant favourite Scriptures.

I have several.

Job Chapter 23 verse 10
But He knows the way that I take;
When He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold

1 Chronicles 16:11
Seek the LORD and His strength; seek His face continually.

Our Church Motto text for this year is.

Proverbs 16:9
A man’s heart plans his way,
But the LORD directs his steps.

Another place I like to hide in is this Hymn

"My Hope is Built on Nothing Less"
by Edward Mote, 1797-1874

My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness;
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly lean on Jesus’ name.

When darkness veils His lovely face,
I rest on His unchanging grace;
In every high and stormy gale,
My anchor holds within the veil.

His oath, His covenant, His blood
Support me in the whelming flood;
When all around my soul gives way,
He then is all my hope and stay.

When He shall come with trumpet sound,
Oh, may I then in Him be found;
Dressed in His righteousness alone,
Faultless to stand before the throne.

Refrain:
On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand,
All other ground is sinking sand.

They all have a theme. Gods strength and guidance.

MS effects me mentally as well as physically and my strength fails me all the time but God never fails me nor forsakes me. He gives me peace and comfort throughout the most turbulant of times.

Having an Ark to take shelter in is so vital for me, do you have an ARK?

It has been awhile...

2010-11-09T00:17:00.000-08:00

Wow it has been months since I last posted.

I just wanted to say that I am OK, up-and-down health-wise but still smiling.
God is so good and loving and helps me through the rollercoaster of life. If I did not have God in my life I feel I would be bitter and twisted about my MS. God enables me to look up to Him, and leaving my troubles/burdens at His feet is a mighty privilege.

I have been crafting and have posted a few things on my other blog:
Clare Cards

I will be posting more things I have made soon. I have lacked inspiration to create recently and my hands do not always do what the brain asks them to do so that makes crafting difficult at times.

I do love this time of year the colours are beautiful, what an AWESOME Creator we have.
I do love the short daylight hours as I can shut out the gloomy days and snuggle up in my favourite chair with some warm lighting and the dog!

I do love my family so much, they are so supportive, even on my grouchy days!
Most of all I love Jesus Christ and all that He has done for me, what a Saviour I have...

What do you love?

Kitchen Meme- feel free to join in

2010-08-24T00:21:00.000-07:00

Kitchen meme

1. Do you have magnets on your fridge?

Yes, allmost of them are humorous..

2. Do you have a calendar in your kitchen, if so, what’s the theme of it?

Its a rat themed calender. Yes I said rats as they are wonderful pets!

3. What is your favorite kitchen gadget?

At the moment its mt slow cooker, what a wonderful invention!

4. Are you lucky enough to have a pantry of some kind?

No, I would love one as I lack storage space.

5.What is your favorite appliance?

My slow cooker, electric wok and coffee maker.

6. Do you have an eat in kitchen (table in it)?

No room in the kitchen. We have a table that has pull out sides in our lounge/diner

7. Do you have a bread box?

No.

8. Do you have a picture of your kids on the fridge?

One picture that has been made into a fridge magnet of my son swimming with dolphins.

9. Do you ever cook breakfast in your jammies?

I do not cook but nearly always make breakfast in my jammies.

10. Do you have a favorite cookbook that you use?

TO many to list , I just love cookbooks..

11. Are you lucky enough to have recipes that were passed down from your mom or grandma?

No, but my mum has shared many with me.

12. What’s your favorite food?

You have to pick a favourite! Yikes... Ermm chinese food.

13. What’s your favorite thing to cook?

Stir fry.

14. Is your coffee pot electric or stove top?

I love my coffee, I have an electric and a stove pot, infact I am enjoying some fresh coffee right now.

15. Do you ever make your own bread?

When we have guests I make bread rolls occasionally.

16. Name one thing that you have hanging on your wall in your kitchen:

A pale wooden clock.

17. Is there a clock in your kitchen?

Yes, I have clocks in every room.

18. Do you have a bowl of fruit sitting on your table or counter?

Yes I adore fruit and plums are in season at moment yummy!

19. What type of canisters do you have?

Only use two, one for rice and another for teabags.

20. Does your kitchen have a theme?

Pale and unintersting- Is that a theme?

21. What’s for supper tonight?
Sweet and sour chicken and vegetable Korma (we have a guest for tea so I like to do two dished :))

22. Do you have enough cabinet space?

Not at all, but I manage. I think what ever size I had I would want more lol..

23. Does your family use paper plates?

Only on picnics.

24. Do you have a good set of china?

I have a white set we got for our wedding, but its slowly shrinking and have added other white plates etc to keep the numbers up.

25. Do you wear an apron to work in your kitchen?

I have one but I dont. I always forget lol. Unless I have a baking day then I do.

26. Name one thing, if anything, that you would like to change about your kitchen.

Its very old and tired , so I would change it all.

I have giants in my garden.

2010-07-11T15:46:00.001-07:00

Atlast my flowers are putting on a spectacular show, but a couple of giants are stealing the lime light,

They are as high as our bungalow roof.

A few borders, I have been tinkering with, and even when I became very ill last week, I STILL got so much joy from them. The giants make you look up to Heaven and I thank God for every creation.

Look what my wonderful husband built, the fountain is solar run. I just love the sound of running water. He palnted smalle heathers inbetween the smaller cobbles.

MS update and treatment.

2010-06-25T08:03:00.000-07:00

I went to my neurologist today. He is a pleasure to see even if he is always running late, as he is so passionate about his work.
I am currently going throught a relapse and have lost strength and sensation in my right hand side.
I start a three day course of IV steroids on tuesday.
I tend to react well to them and it improves my health very quickly. All other courses of treatments are just too risky at moment as one of them is a mild chemotherapy drug which has a 1 in 100 chance of getting a blood disease in the furture. There are a lot of new medications that should be ready for public use very soon. So I am waiting for that to happen.

Weight loss update.....

2010-06-22T04:40:00.000-07:00

Well I have had a testing week with health issues and to be honest I struggled to stay on plan, but I managed to loose 2 1/2 lbs this week. Totalling 10 1/2 lbs so far. This completely amazed me.

Better be focused this week as I don't think I would get away with it 2 weeks in a row.

Feeling out of sorts.

2010-06-18T02:41:00.000-07:00

Oh well it had to happen. I have had a long run of of relatively good health.

I am loosing sensation in my right side. I am dragging my right foot a little and my right hand is so weak I can do only a few things with it.
And the exhaustion is so frustrating, I do something and then I am wiped out.

I see my neurologist next week anyway so I have not made and appointment for my new symptoms.

The Lord will sustain me no matter what. Thankyou Lord for being with me, even though I fail you so often you never fail me. What a Mighty God I have.

Weight loss update - 1/2 stone award.

2010-06-02T01:41:00.000-07:00

I lost another 1 1/2 lbs this week and that totals 7 lbs (1/2 a stone).

Slowly but surely.

Sunshine .

2010-05-25T14:49:00.000-07:00

Well the past few days have been hot hot hot! I cannot remember such warmth in the month of May.
We have fans in most rooms to keep air ciculating.
The pool is up and filled and Its just what is needed on a hot sunny day.

The flowers are growing like mad and the colours of some of the flowers have been a surprise to me as I thought I had planted purple ones and they are bright pink! Everywhere I am looking something new is peeking through.
Makes you marvel at Gods creation.

Mind you one of Gods not so little creations gave me a fright the other day. A spider the size of my hand came to visit me..Shudders! This is the little fellow after my husband caught him and took him outside.

I am still awaiting MRI results, I have an appointment with my neurologist mid June to discusss treament.

Weight loss update 2

2010-05-25T14:46:00.000-07:00

Well I lost another 1 1/2 lbs this week so a total of 5 1/2 lbs loss so far.
It seems to go on so quickly and takes so much longer to come off lol!

Weight loss update

2010-05-19T00:54:00.000-07:00

I lost 1 1/2 lbs this week and I was relieved as I have not been 100 % on plan. Now I must focus..

First week results on slimming plan

2010-05-12T00:01:00.000-07:00

Well I have to admit I struggled to organise myself to get back on this plan, but I think I am getting there.

I lost 2 1/2 lbs :)
Long may the loss continue.

MRI

2010-05-08T00:50:00.000-07:00

I am having an MRI on Monday morning, this will be looking to see if I fall under the criteria for Tysabri. I will not have the results for a while.

I have peace with it all as it is all in my mighty Lord's hands. He is in complete control of all things, so why should I be worrying?

Re- joined slimming world..

2010-05-04T13:38:00.000-07:00

Well as I haven't mentioned my weight recently means that I have been steadily gaining not loosing over the past year or so. So today I joined slimming world to shed those pounds..My dear hubby isnt going to the class but will be on the eating plan with me.

I feel quite positive and determined to stick with it.
If I cannot exercise the weight off I sure can attack on the dietry front.

So watch this space....

Update on my husband- He has been to the lung clinic today and got showed how to wire himself up for an over night sleep study. So that should be interesting tonight, then he will go to the hospital and get an indication on the results. .

Course of treatment?

2010-04-28T00:36:00.000-07:00

Two posts in a week is unheard of from me lol!

Just wanted to share what direction my treatment is going.
I went to see my neurologist on Friday and he agreed with me that my daily injections of capoxone (stopped now) were the cause of my breathing problems and site reactions. Seems I have most probably become hyper-sensitive to the drug.
So we discussed what direction and course of treament we should be looking into.

We are looking into a drug called

Tysabri (natalizumab)

Tysabri (also known as natalizumab) is a drug used to treat highly active forms of relapsing-remitting MS. It is proven to be effective at reducing relapses by approximately 65 per cent in people with the condition .

I will have a MRI scan in the next few weeks to see if I need it.

Here is a little bit of imformation about it.

Who is it for?
People with relapsing remitting MS. It is available on the NHS for people who have had two
or more disabling relapses in a year and have signs of new MS inflammation on a recent MRI
scan.
How is it administered?
Intravenously by infusion into the vein once a month
How does it work?
Natalizumab is an antibody that works by attaching itself to cells of the immune system and
preventing them from getting into the brain and spinal cord, where they normally cause
damage in MS.

The most common side-effects experienced after taking natalizumab are, joint pain, fever,
tiredness, a runny or blocked nose, sore throat, feeling nauseous, headache and dizziness.
In addition, skin reactions to the infusion are experienced.
One serious and often fatal side effect is a condition called progressive multifocal
leukoencephalopathy (PML). This is caused by a viral infection in the brain. The risk of
developing this is about one in 1000 for people who have received natalizumab for more than
12 months. The risk of PML with natalizumab use increases after 2 years of therapy. Patients
with MS should be informed about the risks of natalizumab, including PML, both before
treatment and again after 2 years. People taking natalizumab are monitored regularly to
identify PML and other potentially serious side effects as early as possible.

As of 10th March 2010 there have been 41 reported cases of PML of which 9 resulted in
death. However, the risks of developing PML remain at 1 in 1000.

I would value prayers at this time . As it would be a huge decision.

The sun is shining.

2010-04-23T23:54:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to share how blessed I feel.

We at home are having a roller coaster ride of health issues but I am so at peace about it all. It is impossible to put into words how I feel. I have no worries or stress about any of it.
God has been so good to me and Us as a family.
We all at times can be so unthankful for Gods mercies towards us. We too quickly forget God is in control of all things. .
I am sitting here this morning reflecting on the past week and it has been so blessed and Gods love is so evident throughout.
I thankyou for the prayers and most importantly I thank God for loving a sinner such as I.

Quick update on my husband.

2010-03-28T01:20:00.001-07:00

Jonathan went private in the end as its was a 2 month wait for a scan.( Thankyou parent in law xx who payed for it.)
He has been diagnosed with sleep apneoa and will have a scan in the future (on NHS) to double check on things.The scan is not urgent hence going back to NHS.
Futher tests will be done and I will keep you updated.

This and that.

2010-03-17T14:39:00.000-07:00

I haven't felt inspired much to write anything here for a while. Lots has been going on but didnt really know where to start. So here is a brief summary:

Me - I haven't been to well but I have been plodding along steadily until I kept experiencing breathing problems. The best way to describe it is its like having a panic attack and I could not control my breathing. I went back and forth from my GP and had all sorts of scans and tests and all seemed ok, but the breathing problem just got worse.

I then went to a breathing clinic and was informed I have hyperventilating syndrome and I am expelling far too much CO2 when has a knock-on effect like alkaline blood, kidneys working overtime etc.

I now have diaphragm breathing techniques to master.

Also, one of my medications which I inject daily can make breathing difficult side-effect and my injection zones were becoming too painful, so I am no longer taking that. Which I am quite pleased about!

I will see my neurologist in April and discuss alternatives then. The Lord continues to keep and sustain me - what a wonderful God I have!

My dear husband has not been well at all recently and it all turned for the worse last Thursday. I was close to calling an ambulance out. We went to doctors as an emergency on Friday, he has been told not to drive until further notice and is going to have a MRI on his brain to check for temporal lobe epilespy. But the wating time is months so our family are paying for it to be done privately to help speed the diagnosis along.

We would really value your prayers for us as a family at this time.

Throughout all of this we remember God is in control of all these things and we must trust him more and more as He will never leave nor forsake us.

A hymn that I would love to share.

2010-01-12T11:19:00.000-08:00

Well its 2010 and oh how last year just shot by.

I would like to share a hymn that I love dearly . Please go here for the words.

The words are wonderful.

2009-12-15T14:34:00.000-08:00

December Daily: A Christmas Survey

I saw this at BYGRACE blog and thought id give it a go

About the TREE....

1.When do you put up the Christmas tree? 1 st Day in December thats not a Sunday.
2. Real or fake? We have a fake one
3. Lights? What color?Lights are clear/white.
4. Garland? Silver
5. Theme or no theme?Silver and white
6. What kind of topper? Glass Snowman
7. What's your favorite ornament? Glass Snowman
8. What does your tree skirt look like? Silver tinsel
9. Where do you put your tree? In a corner of our living room. by the sofa.
10. Who decorates the tree? I sort out decorations Hubby tends to decorate it.
11.What's "under" the tree?The dog sometimes lol
12. Do you put candy canes on your tree? no, but chocolate bells

About the FOODS....

1. What's your favorite Christmas cookie? A chocolate one
2. Do you bake cookies and give them away? I buy the best bargains around.
3. Any "special" foods or candy that you only have at Christmas time? Beetroot pickle yummy!
4. What do you eat Christmas EVE? Not much too busy preparing for Christmas day.
5. What do you eat on Christmas day? Cooked Breakfast then a late roast lunch usually Beef and all the trimmings, we invite anyone we know who maybe alone for the day for lunch.
6. Do you like Eggnog?? Yuk!
7. Do you like candy canes? No but they look pretty.

Decorations....

1. Where do you hang your stockings? They are pillowcases on end of bed
2. Do you put lights on your house? We have a Christmas tree white light in kitchen window.
3. Got any outside lawn decorations? No
4. Do you put up a nativity (creche)? No
5. Do you hang mistletoe over the door? No
6. Got a wreath on your front door? No
7. How long does it take you to decorate? 2 hours lol

Are you ready for Christmas - yes I think so just fresh food to buy.

Dolly the dog

2009-12-14T12:24:00.000-08:00

This is her regal look.

I am very biased but I have the cutess dog in the whole wide world. She is 3/4 terrier 1/4 collie.

I am going to share a few pictures of her mostly up to mischief.

this look is come and tickle my tummy mummy,I'M waiting.

When we fill the pool in the summer she fights with the hose pipe.She does love the water.

She was orginally brought to be a companion to me when J was at work.Now she is everyones buddy. She is such a loyal and fun dog, she is just perfect for us, she knows when I am ill, she doesn't leave my side.
What a wonderful creation for us to enjoy and look after.

ECG and this & that.

2009-12-09T13:02:00.000-08:00

Had an ECG today and it was A-ok. The nurse did it twice to make sure and it was OK both times.

So I'm not sure what direction things will go until I see the Doctor in 10 days.

But mentally I feel quite positive, physically I just keep breaking down from time to time and at times I am high maintenance lol..

I have a great and loving husband who picks me up when I am down, I have a patient and loving son, and I have a wonderful family around me - some closer than others, but all just a call away.

Most of all I have a Mighty God Who upholds me throughout and everything is Gods plan and I remember that He is in total control of all things. Don't you find comfort in that? I know I do.

Recently I have learned to be more patient and how to deal with frustrations in a Christ-like manner. I have a long way to go yet but I believe I am travelling in the right direction.

I have learned that my life does not revolve around MS - it doesn't rule me - it just changes my direction from time to time.

I have realised having a quiet day isn't being defeatist - it is being wise, and keeping well for another day.

I have realised at long last that planning and being organised reduces stress levels (this took me sooooooooo long to get, why?)

Ups and downs

2009-12-04T14:33:00.000-08:00

I still haven't really recovered from the flu and I became quite ill again, I was breathless with palpitations.

I went to see my GP because I was nagged into it.

He gave me a full MOT as I like to call it. Blood pressure good, heartrate ok, but he found a heart mumur. I was born with one but it had seemed to go away as years passed. I also cannot hold my breath for very long and have pain in my right side as I breathe.

I had a heart x-ray today and booked in for a ECG on wednesday.

Then we will see.

In my mind I might have what some call a MS hug (tightness around chest).
Time will tell and the Lord sustains me and comforts me always. What a friend I have in Jesus.

Get ready for a few christmas recipes.- Duck

2009-12-02T14:31:00.000-08:00

Sophie Grigson's crisp slow-roast duck

Serves 4
Cooking time 2 hours 30 minutes

1 duckling, around 2.3-2.7kg (5-6lb)
500g (1lb 2oz) turnips
Salt and pepper
Sauce
1 large carrot, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 sticks celery, diced
1 bottle fruity red wine
1 bouquet garni ( a few stalks of parsley, 2 good sprigs of thyme, 2 bay leaves, 1 small sprig sage tied together with string)
750ml (1 1/4pts) duck stock or chicken stock
2tbsp redcurrant jelly

Method

Pre-heat the oven to 220°C/425°F/gas 7. Wipe the duck dry with kitchen paper. Prick the skin all over with a skewer, or a fork if the tines are sharp, so the fat can run out more easily as it cooks. Season generously with salt and pepper. Sit the duck on a rack over a roasting tin and slide it into the oven. Turn the heat down to 180°C/350°F/gas 4 and leave it to cook for 2 1/2hrs.
During that time, all you need to do, whenever you feel like it, is drain off the fat that's gathered in the roasting tin (it's brilliant stuff for sautéing potatoes).
Once you've got your first crop of fat, take 1tbsp of it and heat in a frying pan. Add the carrot, onion and celery and sauté until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned. Now add the wine and the herb bundle.
Bring to the boil, stirring thoroughly, then boil hard until reduced by half. Add the stock and boil again until reduced by about a third to a half, giving a syrupy sauce. Stir in the redcurrant jelly until it has melted, then strain into a small pan. Add a little salt and pepper and simmer for about 2 mins. Taste and adjust seasoning. Re-heat when needed.
Peel the turnips, cut into 2cm (3/4in) cubes and blanch in boiling water for three mins. Drain and run under the cold tap. Leave to drain thoroughly.
About 40 mins before the duck is done, drain off most of the fat, leaving a bit in the tin. Add the turnips and turn them in the fat, then leave to roast with the duck.
When the duck and turnips are cooked turn off the oven and leave the door open. Let them rest like this for about 15 mins.
Using a sharp knife or poultry shears, cut the duck into four pieces, cutting first from head to tail end, along the breastbone and through the backbone to give two halves, then dividing each half in two.
Serve quickly while still warm with the roast turnips and reheated sauce.

Sophie Grigson is a celebrity chef and author of Vegetables, published by Collins

Yummy! Nice alternative to turkey

Cookies

2009-11-30T14:43:00.000-08:00

These make great tree decorations and are so easy to do.

Ingredients

Use these cookie recipes as the basis for making brilliant baubles or striking stockings Christmas tree decorations.

Vanilla cookies
275g (10oz) plain flour, sifted
5ml (1 tsp) baking powder
100g (3½oz) caster sugar
75g (3oz) butter, diced
1 small egg, beaten
30ml (2 tbsp) golden syrup
2.5ml (½ tsp) vanilla extract
Spiced orange cookies
75g (3oz) butter
75g (3oz) soft brown sugar
30ml (2tbsp) honey
Zest from one orange
10ml (2 tsp) orange juice
225g (8oz) plain flour, sifted
5ml (1 tsp) bicarbonate soda
5ml (1 tsp) cinnamon
Gingerbread cookies
125g (4oz) butter
60ml (4 tbsp) black treacle
225g (8oz) soft brown sugar
450g (1 lb) Plain flour
15ml (1 tbsp) ground ginger
7.5ml (1 ½ tsp) cinnamon
5ml (1 tsp) bicarbonate of soda
15ml (1 tbsp) milk

Method

Preheat the oven to 170ºC/325ºF/Gas Mark 3.
Place the dry ingredients into a mixing bowl. Add the butter and rub together with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. Make a hollow in the centre and pour in the beaten egg, golden syrup and vanilla extract. Mix together well until you have a ball of dough.
Place the dough in a plastic bag and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to 5mm thick and stamp out the cookies, using your chosen cutters. If you are using a template, cut around the template with a knife for each cookie.
Lightly knead and re-roll the trimmings together again to use up all the dough. Place the biscuits on baking sheets.
Bake biscuits for 12-15 minutes until lightly coloured and firm but not crisp. Leave on the tray for two minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preheat the oven to 170ºC/325ºF/Gas Mark 3.
Place butter, sugar, honey, orange zest and juice in a saucepan and heat gently until the sugar has dissolved and the butter melted.
Sieve the flour and dry ingredients in a bowl and add the melted ingredients. Mix well until the dough becomes firm.
Place the dough in a plastic bag and chill in the fridge for 40 minutes
Continue as for vanilla cookies. Bake for 10-15 minutes depending of the size of the cookies. Tip: Why not try adding the zest and juice of a lemon for zingy lemon-flavoured cookies
Preheat the oven to 170ºC/325ºF/Gas Mark 3.
Place butter, treacle and sugar into a saucepan and heat gently until the sugar has dissolved and the butter melted. Cool slightly
Sieve the dry ingredients into a mixing bowl. Pour the melted mixture into the dry ingredients and stir.
Dissolve the bicarbonate of soda in the milk and add to the mixture. Combine to make a dough, adding more milk if necessary.
Place the dough in a plastic bag and chill in the fridge for 40 minutes.
Continue as for vanilla cookies then bake for 10-15 minutes depending of the size of the cookies. Tip: for gingerbread men, try adding currants for eyes before baking

Spiced orange cookies75g (3oz)butter75g (3oz) soft brown sugar30ml (2tbsp) honeyZest from one orange10ml (2 tsp) orange juice225g (8oz) plain flour, sifted5ml (1 tsp) bicarbonate soda5ml (1 tsp) cinnamon1. Preheat the oven to 170ºC/325ºF/Gas Mark 3.2. Place butter, sugar, honey, orange zest and juice in a saucepan and heat gently until the sugar has dissolved and the butter melted.3. Sieve the flour and dry ingredients in a bowl and add the melted ingredients. Mix well until the dough becomes firm.4. Place the dough in a plastic bag and chill in the fridge for 40 minutes5. Continue as for vanilla cookies. Bake for 10-15 minutes depending of the size of the cookies. Tip: Why not try adding the zest and juice of a lemon for zingy lemon-flavoured cookies

Gingerbread cookies125g (4oz) butter60ml (4 tbsp) black treacle225g (8oz) soft brown sugar450g (1 lb) Plain flour15ml (1 tbsp) ground ginger7.5ml (1 ½ tsp) cinnamon5ml (1 tsp) bicarbonate of soda15ml (1 tbsp) milk1. Preheat the oven to 170ºC/325ºF/Gas Mark 3.2. Place butter, treacle and sugar into a saucepan and heat gently until the sugar has dissolved and the butter melted. Cool slightly3. Sieve the dry ingredients into a mixing bowl. Pour the melted mixture into the dry ingredients and stir.4. Dissolve the bicarbonate of soda in the milk and add to the mixture. Combine to make a dough, adding more milk if necessary.5. Place the dough in a plastic bag and chill in the fridge for 40 minutes.6. Continue as for vanilla cookies then bake for 10-15 minutes depending of the size of the cookies. Tip: for gingerbread men, try adding currants for eyes before baking.

Let the children join in and have fun,

Pecan Maple Brownies

2009-11-30T14:41:00.000-08:00

Pecan nuts give some extra crunch to this deliciously moreish chocolate brownies Yummy!!

Cooking time: 1 hr 5 mins
Makes: 15

Ingredients

Always use the best quality chocolate you can find - with 70% cocoa solids or more. It's full of health-boosting antioxidants - and it tastes better, too!
Method

Preheat the oven to 180ºC (350ºF, gas mark 4). Lightly grease an 18 x 27cm (7 x 10½ in) tin and line with non-stick baking parchment.
Place the chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water. Leave for 4-5 mins, stirring occasionally until melted. Cool slightly.
In a separate bowl whisk together the eggs, sugar and maple syrup. Whisk into the melted chocolate mixture, then fold in the flour and two-thirds of the pecan nuts.
Pour the mixture into the prepared tin and scatter over the rest of the nuts. Bake for 35-40 mins until the top is crisp and the centre is almost set. Leave to cool completely in the tin, then turn out and cut into squares.

250g (9oz) plain chocolate, broken into pieces
225g (8oz) butter
4 medium eggs, beaten
225g (8oz) caster sugar
90ml (6tbsp) maple syrup
150g (5oz) plain flour, sifted
200g packet pecan nuts, roughly chopped

A little light hearted fun- One Word

2009-11-28T08:24:00.000-08:00

I saw this on a blog I visit and I thought it fun to join in , and maybe you will aswell.

USING ONLY ONE WORD! It's not as easy as you might think. Copy and change the answers to suit you and pass it on. It's really hard to only use one word answers.

1. Where is your cell phone? Table
2. Your significant other? Jonathan
3. Your hair? Brownish
4. Your mother? Loving
5. Your father? reassurung
6. Your favorite thing? Crafting
7. Your dream last night? None
8. Your favorite drink? Coffee
9. Your dream/goal? Improvment
10. What room you are in? Bedroom
11. Your hobby? Crafting
12. Your fear? None
13. Where do you want to be in 6 years? Home
14. Where were you last night? Home
16. Muffins? none
17. Wish list item? Guillotine
18. Where you grew up? Gloucestershire
19. Last thing you did? Blog
20. What are you wearing? Joggers
21. Your TV? on
22. Your pets? Dog
23. Friends? Cherished
24. Your life? Happy
25. Your mood? Relaxed
26. Missing some one? Husband
27. Car? Zafira
28. Something you're not wearing? socks
29. Your favorite store? Range
30. Your favorite color? Pink
33. When is the last time you laughed? Yesterday
34. Last time you cried? Forgotten
35. Who will resend this? Pass
36. One place that I go to over and over? Church
37. One person who emails me regularly? none
38. My favorite place to eat? Home
39. Why you participated in this survey? Fun
40. What are you doing tonight? Chilling

Swine flu double whammy.

2009-11-18T12:36:00.001-08:00

A little update on things.

My husband is still recovering from swine flu but is much improved.

On Saturday I started to become unwell and by Sunday I was diagnosed with swine flu. I have been bed-bound until today (Wednesday). I ventured into the lounge! Then staggered back to bed a few hours later. It has really knocked the stuffing out of me. I am taking a course of tamiflu but that has side effects! Nausea!!

Will update when I feel a little better.

Update on health, life and....

2009-11-08T14:51:00.000-08:00

Shame on me for neglecting this blog.
Life has been quite busy of late.

Two weeks ago my husband suprised me with a 2nd honeymoon in the Lake District.

He booked the same hotel we stayed at on our honeymoon, and we visited all the places we went to last time. We even got the same room and he never asked fot it!

The views were just stunning, the trees were beautiful, autumn is such a glorious season.

We went on a boat trip around Ullswater. Just a few pictures from the boat.

We also visited Lake Windermere. Another stunning place. The pictures just do not do it justice, it was so peaceful . The silence around the waterside was just amazing, a really good time to take in Gods wonderful creation around us.

This swan came up so close to us, and we just had to take a picture, what a stunning bird! I didn't realise how big they are!

After we got back from the trip, we were busy catching up with things. And the weekend was then upon us.

Sunday morning my husband was preaching and he was not well at all, in fact became so unwell he didn't go to Church in the evening, I went alone. Thankfully he wasn't preaching that evening.

He gradually got worse and on Wednesday he was diagnosed with swine flu. He is currently taking a course of Tamiflu tablets to help fight it.They can also make you feel sick - which they did!! Side effects - don't you just love them!

One week later he is still unwell but improved a little. He has had to be housebound because they encourage you to stay in and reduce chance of spreading. But to be honest he wasn't well enough to go out anyway.

My health is up and down, but the Lord sustains me and has made me well enough to care for my husband and manage to do all the household chores. Isn't God great!

No matter how I feel , the Lord never leaves or forsakes me, what a Saviour I have!

Opportunity to witness

2009-10-04T11:42:00.000-07:00

I had a very brief time chatting to someone the other day and it is very hard to talk about spiritual things, they can be quite hostile if I don't tread carefully. But an opportunity arose and I just went for it. It all started with talking about people trying to prolong their lives etc etc , and we both agreed it was because they fear death. Then I said to her "its one thing I do not fear but look forward to. For to be with The Lord with a new perfect body, praising and glorifying Him would be wonderful.

She sort of paused on the phone so I continued and said "death is a guaranteed thing that will happen in life. Our souls live for eternity where do you think yours will go? I know where mine is going because I have admitted I am a sinner and repented and believed in the Lord Jesus Christ."

So I didnt get much reply but I am grateful that I was able to speak up for the Lord, and I pray that I will have more opportunities.

A poem about how I get on with things.

2009-09-08T15:07:00.000-07:00

I am no poet but wanted to put a few things down

In 2002 I didn't know what to do,
I wobbled, fell over, went numb,
I had test after test, The docs did their best

But still no answer was found.

I carried on, uncertain what the future would bring.
I would laugh, cry and EVEN sing.
Then one day in the Doctor's office he said
'You have MS - you have lesions in your head'.

I left and cried, and phoned hubby outside.
He was away and I felt all alone.
Went home and just stared at the wall,
I suddenly felt incredibly small.

I cried out to the Lord to help me get through -
As I didn't know at all what to do.
He comforted me and has never let me down
I have ups and downs - nothing is new!

You may pity my verse
But my life could be worse -
And these problems will all soon be gone
And then I'll be free,
through eternity,
Because of the love of God's Son.

Article in the daily Mail

2009-08-21T12:43:00.000-07:00

Another very interesting article in the Daily Mail.
Really worth a read, it claims it can hold MS at bay at the fraction of the price of other drug therapies.

A balancing act.

2009-08-15T03:52:00.000-07:00

I have been up and down MS-wise, at the moment I am going in a slight upward direction.
I don't know if you have this same battle (MS related), but when I am feeling slightly better than usual I go mad and get all the things done I have not managed to do, then I pay the price with exhaustion and pain.

Is it the same with you? I keep saying to myself 'slow down girl you're going to pay the price for doing this', and I still do it! Then I get cross with myself.
It is indeed a balancing act that I still haven't got to grips with. Hmm maybe its the ugly face of pride and stubborness which I must deal with. I know I cannot do this by myself and God will strengthen me and guide me.

Also as I am on a ramble about MS, I take copaxone daily and I am being really good alternating injection sites but I am running out of areas which are clear of swelling and not painful.

Any suggestions?

Refreshing time

2009-08-12T07:21:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we got back from our week away in Minehead Somerset (Sat-Sat). John went to a scripture union camp (Sun-Sat). We all spent Saturday Night together and most of Sunday . We worshipped in a local Church in the morning then dropped off John in the afternoon, he was only staying 20 miles away from us. He was a little excited to say the least!

Weather was not too good at beginning of week but it improved as week went along.

On Monday we were looking around the waterfront when we decided on the spur of the moment to go on an open topped bus from Minehead to Lynmouth. The views were stunning but it wasn't a journey for the faint hearted as it was windy, very narrow and steep lanes and steep slops on both sides. It was definately worth it though..

Tuesday we explored the town we were staying in. Our apartment was a stone's throw from the beach and in the heart of the town . Below shows you where we were staying and how close we were to seafront.

Its a very pretty town and the seafront is lovely , its a shame that it was so commercial (so many takeaways)! I had my first paddle in the sea.

Wednesday we had a day out on the steam train, it was wonderful. It was like going back in time and we stopped off in a place called Watchet for a fish and chip lunch.

Thursday we went to Barnstaple to visit my husbands sister and family. It was a lovely day out, great to see my nephews. We went to a nearby park and had great fun.

Friday we spent the day on the beach, it was wonderful weather. Finished the week off beautifully.

We had a lovely week and feel physically and spiritually refreshed.

God is always there

2009-07-28T13:28:00.000-07:00

I really haven't been too well again, but I wanted to share a wonderful thing that happened to me on Sunday.

Saturday I was so under the weather (you know those MS things rearing their naughty heads again), that I mentioned to my husband that I didn't think I would be well enough to go to church on Sunday.
Well Sunday came and I really was not feeling any better, in fact I felt worse.
So in the morning I pleaded with the Lord just to make me well enough to get to church and hear His Word.
I got to church still pleading with the Lord, and as soon as the worship began I was well enough to sing heartily and follow with clarity the sermon - I even was able to write notes.
I wasnt strong enough to stand but my mind was clear.

Thank you Lord.

Monday I have continued to improve and Tuesday is even better, what a loving and comforting Lord I have.

Once they were seeds.

2009-07-15T14:07:00.000-07:00

I am no gardener , but find it soothing plodding in the garden, gives me plenty of time to think about my Creator.

Everything in the garden has been grown from seed, so it has been lovely watching the seedlings turn into beautiful plants.

The Sun flowers looked stunning , its a shame they don't last long.

Look at these stunning colours , they are so clever at night they close up and in the mornings they wake up , and when it rains they close up so quickly.

The marigolds have really suprised me how well they are doing.

These have popped up in my border and are so delicate and the bee's just love them.

I have had a few suprises aswell as I am not organised and lost alot of the seed packaging.

So when my mum told me to thin out my tomatoes I replied what tomatoes as I thought I had planted some herbs, so now I am growing tomatoes..

This year we are growing potatoes for the first time and they have gone mad , I do hope there are some potatoes beneath the mass of leaves.

God always hears our prayers.

2009-07-03T14:17:00.000-07:00

I Have a friend who comes to church with me with her daughter. She is a lovely lady with many struggles. As many of us do. She really needed to get away from where she lives and get a fresh start with her daughter.
Well tommorow she moves to a house just round the corner from me, what an answer to prayer. I ask that you who read this will pray for her and her daughter that the move goes without problems and they quickly settle in. That there lives will become more stable and safe.

What a great and loving and all knowing God we have.

Swimming. a mini triumph

2009-06-23T13:11:00.000-07:00

As most of you know I have joined a gym a few weeks ago and its certainly eye opening as to how unfit I am and how weak my limbs have become - something I aim to rectify.
I had a health check and tried out some machines and got a mini 6 week plan. Well first week on it my legs just couldnt do the stepper and strider just no strength left in them :( All I could do was the cycle and rower and that was with great effort. So I approached my instructor and said I am doing aqua aerobics 3 times a week and swimming the other two with light gym work srpinkled into it, he was very supportive and said do what your body will allow and what suits you best.
Well friday 20 lengths saturday I swam 30 lengths monday aqua areobics and 10 lengths well Tuesday was a breakthrough and I swam 54 lengths whooo I say! I struggled at first to even do 10 then I added a few more and it started to flow slowly but surely and got to 54...Its a huge thing for me my muscles are definately telling me I have done it....
So I am going to settle into a swimming an areobics for now and gently pushing myself each time.

Update...

2009-06-11T05:30:00.000-07:00

I joined a gym a week or so ago with my husband and we are loving it. I am swimming nearly every day, at my own pace of course, and cycled for first time 2 days ago with my husband (stationary bike or I would wobble and fall off) and realised how unfit I am!!
We are still at slimming club but I think this will go as we continue with the gym, way too expensive to do both. I am aching in places I forgot I had! .. Still 3 stone 3 lbs lighter..
Health wise I am ok, not good but not bad, and my hip since I have been swimming is so much better.
Still daily injecting with copaxone, its becoming difficult to find a site thats clear to inject into as swelling is taking time to go down.
I have done a lot of reflecting recently and having MS is a positive thing for me, yes I said positive! I have made new friends online and day-to-day because of it, and most importantly God has been so good and has never failed me throught all of it. What a great and loving God I have.
No matter what God never fails me, can we say the same thing about ourselves? No - we fail all the time.

Weigh in...

2009-05-20T13:00:00.000-07:00

Lost another 1 lb this week and I am very pleased as my week really hasn't been a focused one.

total loss 3 stone 3 1/2 lbs.

Back on Slimming plan

2009-05-14T04:43:00.000-07:00

Atlast I seem to of been able to remotivate myself and get back on the slimming world plan.
I have really been struggling past few months and gained a total of 4 1/2 lbs since January! Today I weighed in and lost 5 lbs this week! I couldnt believe it. so now my weight loss is 3 stone 2 1/2 lbs so I back in the right direction..
I do struggle sticking to plan when I am not well as I tend not to cook from scratch and buy quick meals.

My MRI scan came back clear and I will be starting physio soon and see if we can sort it out that way. The Lord is so good to me and I am so thankless and times , but I keep going to the Lord and asking for forgivness. His love is truly wonderful.

A post in the mail- MS treatment

2009-04-24T13:59:00.000-07:00

This was an interesting article found in the Mail newspaper, its worth a read and I am going to look further into this.

MRI- Thursday

2009-04-15T05:25:00.000-07:00

I am having a MRI tommorow on my pelvis and hip area. I have had a lot of pain in right hip since my last steroid treatment, its mainly precautionary, but steroids can have side effects like bone thinning and damaging/destroying blood supply to bones i.e hips etc.
Will update you when I have more to tell.

When I go through periods of times like these (pain) , I go to the Lord and ask for peace and help to deal with it, and God never fails me , even though I too often fail Him.
What a wonderful and great God I have.

My holiday.

2009-04-09T12:40:00.000-07:00

We went to New Word Alive holiday in deepest Wales Saturday to Thursday .It was held on a Haven holiday site and we were staying in one of the many mobile homes there.

The weather was wonderful, the beach was less than five minutes away, the scenery just made me feel so small and made me think what a mighty Creator we have.

The talks were awesone and I have had my eyes firmly opened about the story of Jonah which Liam Golligher led. Wow wow wow comes to mind.

And on Sunday I heard Don Carson speak pm, well words fail me it was just what the doctor ordered.There were talks all day but there is only so much you can retain and keep in.

John went to the 11-14 year old groups in the morning the rest of the day we filled with family stuff like swimming, go-karting, crazy golf, air hockey (ouch my knuckles),FOOTBALL, monopoly (electronic version you have debit cards no cash in this game lol), walks along the beach and cliff walks, oh my so much crammed in in a few days.

Went to some interestng talks about teenager-parenting which were very helpful and I brought the book that they were based on.

We had a wonderful holiday, the Lord blessed us with safe journeys and beautiful weather, and the teaching there was wonderful.

I have to admit to being exhausted but very happy.
.

Update on Health and so much to be thankful for.

2009-03-24T12:49:00.000-07:00

Thought I would just update my blog for those who read it.

The steroids I had recently seemed to have worked and my vision came back in my right eye, then a few days ago it went again. I still have my left so I am still smiling.

I saw my MS nurse last week and mentioned I have pain in my right hip, I am going to have an MRI scan on it to check no damage has been caused by the steroids I have taken. It is painful but I am at peace with whatever it may be, God enables me to have this peace and I am so thankful.
I will update you when I know more.

My daily injections are going well and I am not bruising as much as I used to and when I look back to when I started capaxone it certainly has reduced my amount of relapses, so yet another thing to be thankful to God about.

I am thankful my husband is my full time carer, and is the best husband in the world (yes I am biased lol).

I am thankful for my son being understanding why his mummy is in bed so early.

I am thankful for my bloggy friends who are so encouraging.

Most of all I am thankful for the Lord Jesus Christ who paid the price for my sins.

Sometimes we have to step back and see all the blessings we have daily.

Another Great Hymn-Man of sorrows what a name.

2009-03-21T13:55:00.000-07:00

m
This is one of my husbands favourite hymns and we had this at our wedding,The words are just wonderful and full of hope and joy to the Christian.

Man of Sorrows! what a name
For the Son of God, who came
Ruined sinners to reclaim.
Hallelujah! What a Savior!

Bearing shame and scoffing rude,
In my place condemned He stood;
Sealed my pardon with His blood.
Hallelujah! What a Savior!

Guilty, vile, and helpless we;
Spotless Lamb of God was He;
“Full atonement!” can it be?
Hallelujah! What a Savior!

Lifted up was He to die;
“It is finished!” was His cry;
Now in Heav’n exalted high.
Hallelujah! What a Savior!

When He comes, our glorious King
,All His ransomed home to bring,
Then anew His song we’ll sing:
Hallelujah! What a Savior!

A snippet of Gods creation.

2009-03-18T07:19:00.000-07:00

I by no means class myself as a gardener but I do enjoy pottering around in the garden. I planted a few pots a couple of weeks ago to give the garden a splash of colour.

When I look at the flowers planted I am in awe of the beauty in the shapes and colours and wanted to share a few pictures with you.

Update on things in general.

2009-03-11T13:14:00.000-07:00

Health wise I think I am improving but I have to take things slowly or I will set myself backwards rarther than going forwards,

Sensation in coming back in arms and legs and is quite painful but thats a positive thing , means feeling is returning. My face and neck are numb but it doesnt hinder me in anyway, My eyesight is much inproved (yeh!).... mentally I feel like fighting again aslong long as I fight before afternoon comes lol as enery levels have gone by then.
Most importantly I have been walking closer my Mighty God and going to Him in prayer and I cannot stop thanking Him for His goodness, AND his love.

We have a mighty God that can do all things and never leaves us or forsakes us , what a friend we have.

Weight wise it came to a standstill but im still 3 stone 1 loss so thats a plus , trying to get remotivated and focused,.

I wanted to share one of my favourite Hymns with you.

2009-03-10T09:27:00.000-07:00

There is a hymn that has a very special place in my heart. I sang it the first Sunday I went to church after I was converted and we had it on our wedding day.

The words simply say it all that is needed.

My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less

My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly lean on Jesus’ Name.

On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand;
All other ground is sinking sand.

When darkness seems to hide His face,
I rest on His unchanging grace.
In every high and stormy gale,
My anchor holds within the veil.

Refrain

His oath, His cov'nant, and His blood,
Support me in the 'whelming flood.
When all around my soul gives way,
He then is all my Hope and Stay.

Refrain

When He shall come with trumpet sound,
Oh may I then in Him be found.
Clothed in His righteousness alone,
Faultless to stand before the throne.

On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand;
All other ground is sinking sand.

Update...

2009-03-03T14:04:00.000-08:00

I have had my three day course of IV steroids tues/wed/thurs last week. It took four times to canulate me I am sure my veins hide when a needle comes out.
I have come down off the steroid high and just waiting to see if there is any effect, no sensation on right side has returned yet but its still early days.

I came down with a heavy cold after course of steroids was taken which has not helped at all. Its a waiting game now and I will keep you updated when things happen.

Still feel lousey but still smiling and God being on my side its a win win situation.

Update

2009-02-20T13:48:00.000-08:00

I havent been feeling well at all recently and my sight in right eye is badly affected. My right hand side is numb and I have the shakes. So I went to see my neurologist today and next week I will under go a 3 day course of IV steroids to help me get back onto road to recovery.
I do tend to improve quickly once taken.

Thankyou for prayers and please continue to pray for me at this time.

Clare

Thankyou for your prayers.

2009-02-09T07:27:00.000-08:00

I am a little better , still very tired most of the time and everything feels so hard. But I am doing more. Still not sleeping well grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr lol..
It was lovely to see my parents in law. They came down Wednesday evening just before the heavy snowfall and went back Sunday night after the Sunday service.
Thankyou for your prayers.
God is so good.

Update and prayer request.

2009-02-04T14:25:00.000-08:00

I am really struggling health wise at moment, fatigue is so bad and sleep seems to evade me a bit of a viscous circle.
Both my eyes have been effected and vision a little foggy.
I am finding everything hard work.

I ask for prayer for me that my health will return quickly and I can get back doing normal things.
I feel like I am failing as a wife and a mother and as a Christian. Just mentally I am at a low,I value your prayers.

I know God is with me and will never fail me.

Wednesday weigh in- 28/01/09

2009-01-28T04:04:00.000-08:00

I lost 2 lbs this week so I am over the moon. Total loss 3 stone 1 1/2 lbs..
Got to keep walking I do hope my body lets me as it really helps with weight loss.

A little update on my MS

2009-01-23T12:25:00.003-08:00

I have been struggling recently but still managing to do things and my optic neuritus has flared up with avengence (my right eye). I can cope with loss of vision but the pain around and behind the eye stops you in your tracks.
So I made an appointment with my Doctor. I saw him Thursday morning. I get on well with my doctor.
I have now been prescribed a 5 days course of oral steroids which should ease the imflamtion behind the eye. I do tend to respond well to this treatment. It should also help with the fatigue side of things.
Also my doctor is so pleased with my weight loss , he is so encouraging.

But I am still smiling and going to the Lord more often in prayer. We have such a comforter and loving God , a friend that never lets us down.

wednesday weigh in- 21/01/09

2009-01-21T03:43:00.000-08:00

Weigh in again.
Lost 1 1/2 lbs this week which suprised me as I had my birthday at weekend and ate cake and lots of bad stuff.

Total loss 2 stone 13 1/2 lbs

Bit of a Battle

2009-01-20T05:31:00.000-08:00

At late fatigue has peaked. I struggle to get up . I struggle to do daily things and I struggle to sleep.
Sometimes I just want to stay in bed and not move!
It seems a constant battle and effort to do the simplest things, but I am convinced it is mentally strenghtening me. The Lord is always with me and sometimes when Life is too easy you forget the important things.
I have so much to be thankful fo, even the struggles..

Weigh In wednesday.

2009-01-14T06:27:00.000-08:00

Another weigh in loomed , we have a Christian friend who has started coming with us. We all encourage each other which is great!
I lost 3 1/2 lbs this week totalling 2 stone 12 lb loss and I am aiming for 2 lbs next week to get my three stone award.
I am so pleased its coming off.
My diet mainly consists of fish and vegetables, which I love by the way..

Another wednesday another weigh in.

2009-01-07T12:10:00.000-08:00

Well I lost a 1lb this week , so back in right direction, total loss 2 stone 8 1/2 lbs. So 100% on plan this week and walking further with dog will help.

Update on my MS

My energy levels are quite low at moment and I am in bed so early these days, for one it helps with pain in both legs which has raised its ugly head again and secondly I just have to lie down as energy has gone by that time of evening. But getting to sleep is a totally different matter and its driving me nuts. Grrrrr
My right eye isn't any better or worse , I can only describe like looking through thick fog and the pain in and around my eye is back. This pain stop me in my tracks as it such a sharp stabbing pain.

On a lighter note I have recently had a few comments on how well I look! I take all the positives I can and put that energy to good use.

We also have snow lingering about this makes roads and pathways dodgy to walk along but fun! Dolly the dog turns into turbo dolly in the snow it makes me laugh so much I think people think I am nuts!

Bye for now.

Phew- weigh in wednesday

2008-12-31T02:31:00.000-08:00

Well it was weigh in today , its been two weeks since last weigh in and I haven't been watching what I eat. So gaining two pounds was a relief!! Thought it would be more, actually it should be more!

A wonderful Christmas time.

2008-12-29T12:11:00.000-08:00

We spent Christmas in London wed-saturday. It was a wonderful time. We all went to the London Metrapolitan Tabernacle for the Christmas service. It was a great message. Then we all went back (all 17 of us) for Christmas Lunch. Lovely food , great company and great conversation.
After lunch which ended about 5 ish we opened the presents. Just watching the children opening them was wonderful.
Dolly went around clearing floor of any crumbs after lunch, but it didnt do her tummy any good and the next three days we had a doggy with a troublesome tummy.
One of the people staying is a young lady called anna. I have chatted via blogs with her for awhile and at last we met face to face, it was lovely to meet her.
Now I have to get back on eating plan as I am piling on the weight. I am in for a big gain but I expected that and I will loose it quickly as I so determined to do so.

Happy Christmas and a blessed New Year.

whoosh busy busy bee.

2008-12-22T12:26:00.001-08:00

Well past few days have been so busy.
Thursday we made descsion to put our pet rattie ting to sleep. She was an old age (3) for a rattie, and I don't like to see animals suffer.
Friday I saw my neurologist , my eye sight is getting bad again in right eye but the rest of me seems to be doing ok. So I wont have to go back for another 6 months.
Saturday we spent time at my parents where both my sisters and family were there. It was a wonderful day and the children were just a joy to be around. All boys 11, 7, 3, and 6 months. John , Jake , Jack and Alex. They all get on so well togehter is lovely. We had great food , great conversation, great company it was lovely.
Sunday was busy , my husband was leading the morning and carol service in evening. We had guests for dinner and tea. The carol service went well and we saw lots of new faces there.
When I got home I think I was doing a fair impression of a zombie! I was wiped out, but it didnt take away the joy of the Lords Day.
Monday I went to bed tired and woke up just as tired! We were having our craft club social in the morning. It was a small group but we had fun and good conversation and some lovely food. Looking forward to the new year as we have a lot of crafty things happening.
I am now in bed , tired but feeling happy about the past few days events.
Tommorow I will have to rest so I dont make myself ill.

Make I take this opportunity to say have a lovely Christmas and a Great New Year.

17th Dec- weigh in

2008-12-17T08:09:00.000-08:00

Well I wasn't looking forward to slimming world this week, had a slight slip up off plan at weekend, but I still lost 2 1/2 lbs lol. Not sure why or how but I am thankful.
We didn't stay to class as we normally do as we are so busy at moment. Well Husband more so than me as he is preaching on Sunday and its the carol service.

total loss 2 stone 9 1/2 lbs.

Wednesday weigh in- 10/12/08

2008-12-10T05:40:00.000-08:00

Another weigh and another loss whooppee! Loss of 4 1/2 lbs and got slimmer of the week again.

So I have lost a total of 2 stone 7 lbs. So I got my 2 1/2 stone loss award this week.

Trendy plaster

2008-12-08T10:19:00.000-08:00

Today we went to the fracture clinic , all seems to be going well and my son has a new groovy plaster in red , it was set with a bend in wrist to aid healing, it just reminded me of a teapot spout ! and 12 th January is the next time we need to go back and hopefully get plaster removed.

We then went to his school and had what they call a risk assessment for his return. It just checks things like how safe is he going to each class, can he write , does he need help with school dinners, how does he get to and from school etc. All went well and he goes back tommorow.

So slightly back to normal tommorow.

An eventful day

2008-12-04T12:50:00.000-08:00

This morning I did the ladies' talk at church on the subject of prayer , I think it went ok. I always get so nervous beforehand.
Then I went on a walking frenzy , walked into town from church then once home i walked to a local supermarket with my trolley to buy bargain veggies. Now strangely my legs hurt!

Now to this afternoon. John phoned on his mobile saying he had sprained his wrist - we just told him to get home quickly and we will look at it, well he came home in floods of tears holding his arm. Alarm bells went off and we thought 'ohh dear A & E here we come!' There was little swelling and he could move his fingers but not rotate his wrist.

The first nurse who saw us said she thought it was a bad sprain but she would get the Doctor to look at it. The Doctor then said that it looked like a sprained wrist but they would do an x-ray just in case. Well thankfully they did as he has broken his wrist! He is now in plaster for 5 - 6 weeks and we go to the fracture clinic on Monday.

Poor thing! He must have been in so much pain but he put on a brave face throughout.

Wednesday weigh in- 3/12/08

2008-12-03T05:05:00.000-08:00

I lost 2 1/2 lbs whoo hoo. Got slimmer of week again.. Gave basket to joint winner as she hasn't won it before. The sticker and certificate was enough for me..

2 stone and 2 1/2 lbs loss in total so far.

Matching pajama men.

2008-12-02T13:48:00.000-08:00

My husband and son have matching pajama's and I had to take a picture to save the moment.

Decorations put up.

2008-12-01T12:38:00.000-08:00

Today we put up our Christmas decorations up. We waited for John to get home form school and after he did his homework, we erected the tree. Jonathan did most of it I sat and watched.

We tend to decorated the tree in silver and white with white lights, the only colourful things on the tree are chocolates, but I am sure they wont last long between, John and the dog!
John has two lovely calenders , one from the Hunt Seniors a lovely nativity scene and the other is a lego one from Johns dad.

I even found somewhere for that enormous garland I made.

Wednesday weigh In-26/11/08

2008-11-26T03:43:00.000-08:00

Another weigh and another loss , whoo hoo! Got my 2 stone loss award today.
I have re thought my mini target before Christmas and settled on losing 2 1/2 stone rather than 3 as it was wasn't really achievable (little steps I keep being told).
I also got slimmer of the month (Oct). I have never won this award before so its really given me renewed motivation.
I stick n my award stickers on the front of my slimming world book. Below is my decorated booklet.

Looking back makes you appreciate things you sometimes take for granted.

2008-11-25T06:43:00.000-08:00

As some of you know ,I have tried a few different medications and some suited me other didn't.
For example when I first started using betaferons it was trial and error with me.
Beta interferon was the first desease modifying drug I tried (every other day injections). I started having quite bad site reactions and my relaspes got more frequent and severe, time was called on that drug.
Then I gave Avonex a go. It was a weekly injection and to start with all seemd ok , even getting over how big I thought the needle was. Then site reactions got worse and I became tearful before each injection that my neurolgist suggested I stopped taking it.
Now I am on copaxone (daily injections). I have a self injector and very few side effects, it fits into my daily routine well , infact I am so relaxed self injecting now , remakable really as I was so needle phobic after I finished taking avonex!
Its been about 13 months now since I started taking copaxone, I am sure my relaspes are less frequent and I seem to recover quicker.
I am very thankful I was eligable for this drug as it isnt cheap! I am thankful for my doctor and neurologist and thankful for the NHS.
You sometimes have to look back to realise what has happened and how things have turned out.

A balancing act

2008-11-21T06:53:00.000-08:00

Getting back to walking again , and trying to walk through the pain ( as my legs cramps have been quite bad recently). It seems though I tread a fine line in trying to walk and having to rest , as when I do too much I am bed bound for awhile.
It's a challenge to say the least because getting fitter improves my health but doing too much (which isnt alot!) does the reverse.
It is going to be a balancing game!

Weigh in Wednesday

2008-11-19T04:36:00.000-08:00

Well I lost 2 lbs, total loss of 1 stone 12 lbs, but I have to admit being a little disappointed because I aimed for more. Yes I am impatient!
Still a loss is a loss and I suppose not too bad as I havent been feeling well to walk much this week.
Must be positive and be motivated for this week..

A lot to be thankful for.

2008-11-18T14:32:00.001-08:00

Today has been a weird sort of day. I think I am just out of sorts mentally and physically.
Everything just feels like an uphill battle and the pain in my legs and my right eye is just wearing me down.
I am so thankful that I have had a good few months, relatively pain free and quite mobile.
Walking this afternoon with my husband and dolly the dog was lovely , as the tree's are stunning at moment , the reds and yellows are so vibrant. It took away my thought on pain and it made me smile at the beauty.
This is just a snippet of Gods awesome creation and its wonderful..What a Great God we have.

Monday-itus

2008-11-17T05:39:00.000-08:00

Today I haven't got out of bed, I feel worn out , lots of pain and unmotivated. Maybe I have over done it in the past few weeks. I will rest today but will get back to normal I hope tommorow.
Haven't felt like this for awhile , which I am very thankful for.
I have a great God , and a great family, I have so much to be thankful for.

Welcome

2008-11-16T16:03:00.000-08:00

This is my blog that concentrates on weight loss, MS , and my journey as a Christian.
My crafts are seperate on another blog.