The best news of the day (and the result of prayers) was that Steph and Christian are no longer consider trauma patients, just burn patients. There was some worry about internal damage, but Doc Mario (Lucy and I decided to give him that nickname, because he looks like the more famous brother of Luigi, thanks Nintendo) told us that they have been cleared.
This is great news. Now we can focus on getting them thick skins.
Please tell me that my joke was funny (see above: thick skins). I need to know that my keen sense of humor and unfailing wit is still intact.
Mostly because a woman asked me tonight if I were Stephanie's mother. HER MOTHER. Are four year olds having babies these days? Cause that is how old I'd have to be.
Alright, the Mesa heat is getting to me!
Love to all!
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
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100 Pieces of Opinion:
Thinking of you, wishing I could give you a hug.
And yes, you are still so funny. Humor in tact. Good job.
I am so happy. It's 9am here in Israel and I have not stopped thinking about them and your family. I check your blog for updates frequently and appreciate you taking the time to update us all. I fasted and was able to make it to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, we lit some candels in their honor. I'll be sure to send you picture.
Let us know soon what we else we can do.
Take care & lots of love,
Iman Salam
Seems I've just exhaled for the first time today. Thanks for the update and the smile.
Yep. You are still funny.
And hot/hawt.
thoughts and prayers to all of you!
Thank you for bearing good news! That is so wonderful! It is always iffy to joke around in a serious situation, but I believe it is always appreciated. Especially in the wake of good news. You're a wonderful update-keeper-person.
I am so relieved to hear the bit of good news. God bless you all. We will continue to pray. Amye ( Sarah and Emily's mom)
I haven't seen your brother-in-law in years and I got a call tonight from a friend that told me of the news. I don't know your sister as well, but Christian was one of my closest friends that made the good 'ol days at BYU so much fun. My prayers are with all of your family and I am appreciative of the updates on their conditions. Is there any way to send a note or email to them that can be read to them? I would love to if that's a possibility. It's great to hear of the progress and I know miracles will continually be brought to them and their children. Prayers and love to you all!
So glad to hear the news.
I am here in Mesa and could not find a news story when I read it on your blog. glad to see they finally got one. I ran into Stephanie at Old Navy a few months back, and went to school with some of their friends(bagleys and courts). I can't stop thinking of their children. I am a person who likes details and so I just keep imagining what's going on. I am so grateful for your frequent updates.
This blog world is amazing isn't it?
So good to hear the update! My husband and all of Christian's mission buddies are staying in contact on their progress and are in continuos prayer for your family. Thank you for updating so frequently! It helps our wondrous minds and saddened hearts! Give them our best! May God's speed be with them... All our Love ~ Travis & Amy Fago
I am an infrequent commentor, a sometimes lurker, but you both are people I so admire and you are my sisters in the gospel too. Funny that cyberspace could create such warm connections between people. I have been been haunted all day by those beautiful pictures Stephanie just had taken of her family. It is so good to hear there is some good news. You will continue to be in my prayers. Oh, and the second best thing to good new is seeing that great humor is still with us too!
Praise be! We need some Stephanie in this world.
Do you think it's the blonde hair? Because moms always go blonder as they get older.
just heard the news and was glad to find you and your family in good spirits... thinking of you and yours.
I followed over from Stephanie's blog (and am just a random reader). I'm happy to hear that things are improving. Wishing you & them strength to make it through.
Thanks for the updates. I'm just beside myself (tears). Although, the mother suggestion did give me a giggle. Ugh.
Maybe they just thought Steph was 12??? :-)
So, so relieved to hear the news. Prayers and thick skin vibes headed their way.
Maybe they just thought Steph was 12??? :-)
So, so relieved to hear the news. Prayers and thick skin vibes headed their way.
I READ nienie and I was crushed to hear of such a tragic thing. I am so glad that they are alive and I will certainly offer prayers. Please let us know what their spirits are like.
I'd never read your sister's blog in the past, but prayers will go out daily from Connecticut.
SUCH GREAT NEWS. But it's still a long road ahead.
Hugely important; make sure their health insurance does not lapse. They will likely be in the hospital for at least 3 months. It will be a lot longer than that before they are able to take care of themselves and their kids.
(Also keep tabs on mortgage payments and such)
The poor kiddos are going to need all the consistancy they can get, I'll be praying for them constantly.
My dad told me (from experience)that 3rd degree burns, skin grafts, and subsequent dressing changes are about the nearest thing to the pain of the atonement that a human being could possibly survive. Awful and tough stuff, but also a unique opportunity for gaining insight and testimony.
If your family could use any insights, advice, support from a family who's been there, feel free to contact me. I know what a surreal place a burn trauma waiting room is.
mlehess (at) hotmail.com
That is so wonderful to hear.
As for the joke, I think humor is one of the best ways to deal with painful situations. *hugs*
I am so happy. I usually cannot fast (low blood sugar), but did yesterday. I felt connected with all those who did so as well. I'm sitting in the airport right now, it was so saddening to not be able to meet you or steph, but I'll be back. I am so glad your sense of humor is getting you through, keep it up! And I still praying for the quick healing of Steph and Christian. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
The mistake comes from you being so wise! And your wit is still there! I'm relieved to hear the news. I was talking to my mom last night about this. Monroe, Louisiana, is now lending prayers.
Praying much.
I am deeply saddened, but thankful they are out of the trauma situation.
Praying...and praying more.
This is good news. It is also my first visit here. I came via Lynne and Melissa's Sugar City Journal. I am a blogger and member of the church from Australia and have been especially looking out for member's blogs. It feels so great to connect with members all over the world! I will keep your sister and her husband in my prayers.
I just read about your sister Steph her husband Christian on another blog. My heart and prayers go out them, your family and the instructor's family.
Humor helps the soul.
Hugs
Joyce
Joke appropriate. I think a good sense of humor is a gift, and it will definitely help buoy those around you through the months to come! Praying for you all.
That is great news.... Are you able to tell us any more about the extent of their injuries? They are in my thoughts and prayers.... xoxo
Thank you so much for updating during this time! I've been checking for updates almost every waking hour. This has certainly hit close to home and I don't think your family has left my thoughts since I heard on Sunday.
I have been following Stephanie's and your blog via Liz's (Christian's sister) for a while now. NieNie Dialogues is such an uplifting read for me. She makes me feel so inspired and I can just sense her goodness through reading how much she loves her husband, her beautiful children and how much she treasures life. I was so saddened by the story, but so grateful that I had heard some good news before I went to bed last night. Your family's faithful example is amazing to members and non-members alike. Love and prayers from Michigan.
Dear Granny,
Did you see things in black and white when you were little?
Never, ever feel bad about humor in trying times, never.
Lots of thoughts and even bigger prayers.
Just found yours and your sister's blogs - a random LDS reader here who grew up in Mesa.... Hugs to all and prayers also at this difficult time.
Tender mercies of the Lord.
They are in my constant prayers and hoping your humor continues - that's so important! xx
I love reading Stephanie's blog (I'm a "lurker") and have been keeping Stephanie and Christian in my prayers. Thank you for the updates and the good news. (So wonderful to witness your faith and your humor!) Love, light, faith and strength to your entire family!
Shannon
Delafield, WI
Congrats on the good news. You and your family will continue to be in our prayers!
Our prayers are with your family. Thanks for all the updates.
Thank you Jane- We are all worried sick about them. We love Nie and are praying for them. Please continue to up date us. Are they expected to make fully recovery? Are the children okay? Who is taking care of them? Has there been a trust fund set up? Please tell us more.
I think this whole process will soon be seen as one miracle after another. I pray it may be so!
I hope you set that lady straight, you are wise and everything, but not that wise. Haha! ;)
"Laughter behind tears is my favorite emotion", (Steel Magnolias)
I absolutely mirror that thought! Keep your spirit up-you and your family are in so many people's thoughts.
Seeing that wood pile charred to bits made me shake my head in wonder that they survived that crash. Heavenly Father definitely had a hand in preserving them. Thank goodness they are out of the trauma unit and hopefully they will make a steady recovery- complete with thick skin! As always, everyone is in our thoughts and prayers.
P.S. Maybe you just exude Momness from having had your own little Chief not too long ago. :-) Either way, Moms are nurturers and that's what Steph and Chrisitian need right now.... a lot of TLC.
Fabulous news! Oh I am so happy for your family! Hang in there! May God Continue to bless you all!
Glad to hear of the progress and your jokes are funny, If it helps I would never ever consider you the mother :-)
Our prayers will continue to be with your entire family. Thank you for the updates and good news.
Thank you so so much for the update! I have been really struggling with the news of total strangers in such a tragic situation. I feel like I know Stephanie from reading her blog. She gives me daily inspiration and inspires me to be a better Mom, a better person and a better Saint. I am so incredibly relieved to hear that they are recovering, although I'm sure it won't be easy or pleasant in any manner. You are all in our thoughts and prayers!
I am glad your humor is still intact. It is the best thing for you and your sister and family. I am glad the prayers are working and that the children are being blessed. Our continued prayers are with you.
I just had my 10 year reunion with Christian in October. Being on the reunion committee with him, I got a chance to reminince over the good ole days. I still called him "Chris" which he apparetly hadn't heard since high school. I was shocked when I heard of the news, but know they will both be okay. May God bless their beautiful family and watch over them. Many prayers for the family.
God bless!
Tina (Hill) Royer
I just had my 10 year reunion with Christian in October. Being on the reunion committee with him, I got a chance to reminince over the good ole days. I still called him "Chris" which he apparetly hadn't heard since high school. I was shocked when I heard of the news, but know they will both be okay. May God bless their beautiful family and watch over them. Many prayers for the family.
God bless!
Tina (Hill) Royer
My arms are around you and your family, lifting you up to God. I pray without ceasing for this very special couple, and your very special family.
Thank you so much for the updates. Your family has been in our thoughts and prayers and will continue to be. It is such a relief to hear that Stephanie and Christian are going to pull through. Thanks again for keeping everyone posted on the situation and let us know if there is anything we can do.
Whitney Nelson
I'm so glad for a good news update. We'll take what we can get.
Turns out the sense of humor is still there.
And turns out my (okay, and everyone else's) superior praying abilities aided in the happy development. Though I must admit I wasn't praying for your sense of humor; that was just a nice bonus.
What a nice day.
yay! i've been praying and hoping . . .
Oh, I am loving you, loving you all, and so grateful for the wonderful news. I had a really focused, inspiring fast yesterday, even though I cried all day. Thank you ever so much for asking us all to join you.
C Jane, you probably had the mother mantle on you yesterday. Don't worry about it. Anxiety can put you temporarily into a different decade.
And yes, you are still and forever funny.
I am eating oatmeal a la Stephanie this morning. Suddenly, it's all I want to eat. That's an odd kind of solidarity, but hey, it's what I do.
I will continue to pray and fast with you. I'm sending all my love to Mesa.
Your post made my heart burst a little with relief. Your family has been on my mind--both your posts and Stephanie's are a bright spot in my day. Prayers continue, and I look forward to further posts on what financial help we can all give.
You are always funny. And nurturing (thus, the mother comment).
Miracles will continue. I just know it.
glad there is some happier news today. keeping your sweet family in my thoughts + prayers.
Hi Courtney, since my mom called me about Stephanie I have been checking on updates so I'm so grateful for this last post. Thank you! How wonderful that they were upgraded. And, BYW, when my mom introduced me and Margaret (who is 20 years older than I am) as her youngest and oldest, the man asked which was which. Now that's offensive! Hope things continue to go so well. I'll keep up on your posts and keep them in my prayers. Love, Carol (Blair) Madsen
That is great news. I watched the report on the news yesterday, and just bawled. I have known Christian since Elementary school, and met Stephanie for the first time this last October. They are such a wonderful couple. I will continue to keep them in my prayers, and hope they get some "thick skins" (yes you are funny)
How are the kiddos doing?
Oh, goodness. I read about this at Navel Gazing. I will be thinking of you and your family and praying for their recovery.
I wish I had been able to fast but my health will not allow it. I will keep them in my prayers. I live in Orem, Utah and I sometimes read Steph's blog. I don't know you personally but I hope they will feel the prayers of so many people in their behalf.
-Aprilyn Bucklein
I have been reading yours and Nie's blogs for awhile and I love them. I have never left a comment, but so enjoy all your posts. I have not stopped thinking about your sister and her husband and their cute family. Thank you for the updates and sense of humor. All of you are in my prayers.
I was the one that deleted the last comment because I didn't realize I had posted under my husband's name.
I'm so glad there is some good news! :)
I feel sorry for the poor woman who thought you were the mother, because she is obviously BLIND!!!
Courtney. Can I offer some advice? Think young, and stop shopping at Talbots.
You have to find humor in all of the craziness! I am so glad to hear that things are getting better (slowly). Hang in there!
I think your jokes are funny!
Stephanie and Christian and your entire family have been in my constant thoughts and prayers since I heard the news. This is such great news!! I will continue to pray for each of you.
Sense of humor still there? Check!
I'm glad you still have your humor, if not, it wouldn't be you. I'm glad that things will be ok. I'm sad that it will take so long and be so painful, but all will work itself out in the end.
At least hundreds, and probably thousands of people are thinking about your family and praying and wishing you all the best. Your wit remains flawless! Speaking as a "reader," thank you SO much for the updates. And speaking as a person who lives in Gilbert (right by Mesa), please DO tell us what we can do to help. And, your mom was great on the news last night. I taped it in case you want it :) They also did a piece on channel 12 (nbc) which focused the pilot who died, and his family. They seem like a very nice family.
I am in Lucy's ward, and I just wanted to let you all know that we are praying for your family at this time. We pray for the best outcome possible and know our Heavenly Father is aware of you all.
I'm de-lurking because that is WONDERFUL news! I read Nie's blog every day and have just been sick with worry, too. Thank you so much for your updates. Is there anything I can do? (even though I'm way up here in Canada)... Meanwhile, you will all continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.
Humor is good. I hope to be able to have that intact if I were in that situation. My prayers are still with them and your family.
I am so sorry for what you and your family are going through right now. I admire your strength and your love for your sweet sister and her family and you humor (Yes, you've still got it). I think that humor is critical in this situation, I think everyone appreciated the smile. My prayers are with you all.
I am jumping for joy right now. My thoughts and prayers will still be heading their way.
thank you thank you for your updates and smiles! so sorry about the mom comment.....really, what was she thinking?
and speaking of moms.....bless your sweet mother!
prayers and hugs:)
Courtney, Marianne and Wendy let us know what happened and our family has been praying for them and we are glad to hear of some progress. Tif
Stephanie, Christian, and your whole family are in my thoughts and prayers. Glad to hear the update.
God bless!
Holly
You are still funny. I'm sure that your family is leaning on your strength and humor right now. We'll keep praying that their recovery will be swift and complete!
my daughter is a burn survivor, i read stephanie's blog. mckenna was in the hospital for six weeks and the recovery was long and painful. i wish there was something i could do to help. we were there, we've been through this. if i can help answer questions or anything at all please let me know.
tara whitney
A dear friend of mine's father passed away suddenly two weeks ago. I sent her a funny card, knowing that her father would want her laughing and not crying. She said it was the best card she could have gotten. Never underestimate the power of humor in trying times.
Thank you for the regular updates. I couldn't stop thinking about them last night, hoping that they are going to be okay. If there is anything that the blog world can do, please let us know!
Wow! Cort, I just heard of the news minutes ago and I am relieved to hear the good news and update. I was in shock and my mind went to the many days spent at the Clark home watching Christian and Stephanie develop their love for one another and how impressive and admirable the two of them are. My thoughts and prayers are with the both of them and your family during this time. The example and testimony of all of you through out our time spent together has always had a place in my heart. I love you all and will continue to pray & fast for a speedy recovery. Cinder, your testimony on the news report was touching, you truely are amazing.
Darek Giles "d-rock"
Wow! Cort, I just heard of the news minutes ago and I am relieved to hear the good news and update. I was in shock and my mind went to the many days spent at the Clark home watching Christian and Stephanie develop their love for one another and how impressive and admirable the two of them are. My thoughts and prayers are with the both of them and your family during this time. The example and testimony of all of you through out our time spent together has always had a place in my heart. I love you all and will continue to pray & fast for a speedy recovery. Cinder, your testimony on the news report was touching, you truely are amazing.
-Darek Giles "d-rock"
I went to highschool with Chris and haven't seen him since. I was so sad to hear the news. Please know that you are all in my prayers and I hope things continue to improve. Your updates are great - blogging is such an amazing tool that can link strangers together on a personal level. May our Father in Heaven pour out his blessings upon you and your families. (Heather Halls Thomas)
I think EVERYONE in Mesa reads NieNie...whether they know her or not...and she is such an inspiration! I am glad to hear they are out of the trauma unit & can focus on recovering from the physical burns,etc. They will be in my prayers.
Just another faithful reader of Nie's blog-- what on Earth will she do when she finds out how many friends she has made through the blogging world? Her light is definitely a shiny one.
Rejoicing to hear the update on her and Christian's status. Wanting to give...help...give some more. Please let us know what we can do!
I just completely stumbled upon your blog and your sister's blog from a post on Darling Darleen's blog. It is a small blog world.
This is so sad. I knew Christian from BYU. I will be praying for them and the whole family.
Hang in there!
Dear Courtney, I'm still fearfull and thinking about Stephanie and Christian. Today my mummy came back from Beijijng with 'lil Nie in her suitcase. I wanted to surprise NieNie with the fotos, because I didn't tell her that my parents will fly to china and take 'Lil Nie with them. I'm so sad that I can't send the fotos immediately to NieNie. I think of her and all of you family-members especially the 4 kids every minute of the day. I lightened some candles at the church and I hope for good good news soon. Lots of love, Katja
Truly Amazing. I think that there are Nie Nie readers around the world praying for these two amazing parents and their 4 sweet children.
My thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you.
Hi Jane,
Will you please tell Steph that I love her. My heart is breaking for your family and I have not stopped crying all morning. I would like to know more about how they are doing? Can she speak yet? My prayers and thoughts are with you all. All my love, Kristy (high school friend of Stephanies)
Hi. I was pleased to read this morning about Stephanie and Christopher, even though I don't know them. Doug Kinneard, however, was a friend. I was his first home teacher, and that is how he always introduced me. I saw him last just two weeks ago, so this sudden loss for me, and of course so very much for his family, is hard to believe. I hope and pray your family will have peace of mind as they tackle this unexpected challenge in their lives.
Thank for doing this blog. I'm Heidi's sister-in-law and was a good friend of Christian's. They are in our prayers, as are you- their family. I'll look forward to your updates.
Thank you
Emily
Such good news. Thanks for updating us!
I didn't think Stephanies sisters name was Jane sorry Courtney I can hardly thnk straight right now. Having just heard the news, I am shaky.
I don't even know Stephanie in real life, but I can't stop thinking about her and sending prayers her way. I'm so saddened by all of this and hope to see a full recovery. Good to know her children are in loving arms.
I have been reading your blog and stephanie's for quite a long time now, although never left a comment. I was with friends here in Spain last Saturday when I read the awful news, I had to share my concerns with friends and family as if you were part of them... and I really feel you are.
I keep refreshing your site for news, and it was great to read this morning update. I really appreciate you take the time to update your blog in this difficult moments.
I am not such a religious person, but I always admire Stephanie's determination in life and we are all here sending them energy and strength.
Besos desde España!
Like all the other posters, I feel such relief hearing a positive update. I have thought of little else after reading this news - and that feels strange since I don't know any of you! Keep up with the jokes, I'm sure you will need them during their long road to recovery. Take care.
Thank you for the updates and suggestions of how to help.
Perhaps the person who thought you were her mother could only see how much you love her and not what your ages are.
Along with everyone else, I am thinking of your dear family and praying for those effect by such a tragic event. I am glad they are improving and doing much better then yesterday. Many happy thoughts and hugs to your family and dougs family.
well you know here in good ol UT anything is possible! HEHE Just kidding! I don't think you look old enough! Glad you still have your sence of humor!
prayers and thoughts are with your family. much love from texas!
So happy and relieved to hear that they are no longer considered trauma patients.
Just relieved to hear that there are some positive things to report.
Can't stop thinking about all of you. You have our prayers.
Yes, you are still funny. It is great that you can handle such a horrifing thing with such a positive attitude. It will help so much in the months ahead. :)
Prayers for yours.
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