"Chup," I said seriously. "I am falling in love with Ollie."
This confession was brought to pass this afternoon as I followed the great Ollie Trail of little prizes (cars, pennies, grapes, stickers . . .) in my last round-up for the day. I am a bit surprised at how devoted I am to his Ollie Highness, being that I always thought I'd be more of a girly mom.
But these boys are surprising me all the time.
As I watch Gigs follow Lucy around, insisting her that all her attention belongs to himself, I am more convinced of my personal theory about having sons. A boy needs to be constantly in love. If he can't be in love with his mother, he'll find someone or something else to captivate his admiration. I hope to be The Chief's one true love until he is at least thirty (just like his daddy). When he finds a woman good enough (que impossible!) I will give back his heart so that he can gift it to her. Please bless that day will be slow in coming . . .
Of course I am finding out that the other part of my theory is that the mother falls just as hard for her son. People ask all the time about what is wrapped around The Chief's finger. It's me. Oh boy, it's me.
And now I am in the same position with Mr. Oliver. I even watched Chicken Little with him twice yesterday. Cuddling too. Plus, I let him put honey on whatever he deems necessary and don't say a word about how many paper cups he disposes of in one hour's time. He just calls out "COURT-NAY!" and I am off kicking up dust at his command. I kiss his wounds, I tickle his belly and aid in his Buzz-to-Spidey costume changes twelve million times a day. The dude is my fella.
So tonight as we sat in the hallway opening up letters and packages from sweet friends (thank you so much!) I noticed that Claire had a special letter from her school class in Mesa. Attached to the card was a picture of Claire, Steph, Jane, Ollie, and Gigs-in-a-stroller on what looked like the first day of school. We all clamored to see it. (Any photo of Stephanie and Christian is a hot commodity around here. We like to stare.) I noticed that when Ollie was allowed a look his eyes lit up like Paris in July.
Then the biggest smile.
Then a little laugh.
He turned his head slightly towards his shoulder, all-the-while staring at the photo.
"That's my mom." He said to me pointing at his beautiful mother.
My heart sunk a little.
The boy obviously has the hots for someone else. I mean, totally enamored with the gorgeous brunette bombshell. Hair pulled back. Sunglasses draped over the lip of her shirt. Huge smile, rounded cheeks.
I watched him stare for awhile with his lovey-dovey eyes and beaming visage. Here was the woman of his dreams, his first great love.
I never even had a chance.
S&C Update: I am writing this post around 11:00pm. I am still waiting word on Stephanie's surgery. Preliminary reports are saying that all went well today. We know prayers (yours, ours) are being answered. As soon as I know more I will post.
Christian is slowly coming out of his sedation. Even brushed his teeth. We are so very glad for this news. We love you Christian!
171 Pieces of Opinion:
Beautiful. You have such a way of eloquently communicating the most tender feelings.
Christian's news is fantastic to hear. Hope that Stephanie's news is just as heartening!
And IKWYM about little boys. They can be so precious (and I'm sure I'll forget the preteen foibles soon! Lol!)
What a blessing for sweet Ollie to have two such strong lovely women to love him so completely. What you say makes so much sense- about the love between a mom and her son. I like to think that a lifetime spent loving Mom (and receiving our love) will cause their heart to grow so large that there will always be a little peice left for us when they do find their true love. I will continue to hold all of you in my prayers. Your words and deeds are such a complete inspiration and such an overwhelming example of what this life is really all about.
Thank you for updating. I checked ten times, praying for good news today.:) Though I don't know Stephanie, I can only imagine how proud she would be of all of you. Her precious kids are just as precious as she left them, a testament to your strength and character and love.
How precious! Yay Christian! I can't help but think a visit to Nie from her Mr. Nielson will be so comforting for her. We will continue to pray for her and your family. Thank you for all your beautiful thoughts.
I never knew how precious and sweet little boys are until I had two of my own. I had girls first, and didn't think I'd know WHAT to do with a boy. Boy, do I LOVE my little guys. (my girls too of course)
I really enjoyed this post.
I continue to pray that the surgery went well. Glad to hear Christian is doing so well, I pray that Stephanie will be joining him soon.
You hit the nail on the head! Little boys have such a sweetness to them. Thanks for your updates--don't know how you do it in the midst of everything else! Have been praying for Stephanie today, will continue to do so.
my little guys got me wrapped too.
praying and sending good wishes to all of you...
tears. reading your thoughts of ollie's love for his mom. God speed her recovery!!!
you are a beautiful writer! i have had stephanie on my mind the whole day and in my prayers. great news about christian and we are praying for a wonderful successful surgery for stephanie. ollie and kids are lucky to have beautiful women in there lives. prayers constantly with you.
diana
It is so true. There is a love between little boys and their moms that is undeniable. My son just told me this weekend..."mom, you are so pretty that when I grow up I am going to marry you". {I just thought--please don't grow up too soon!!!)
What a lovely Auntie taking such care of your sisters most prized treasures. I can just imagine all the work it is taking on these little souls, keeping their days bright and loving. Your sister will be very proud of your enduring thoughtfulness you have given her blessed children. You are an inspiration. Kiss them all for me.
Take Care, Hugs
Diane
My feelings come tonight from a Primary song...
All over the world at the end of day, Heavenly Father's children kneel down to pray.
Each saying thank-you in his own special way,
Saying thank-you, thank-you in his own special way.
Gracias, merci, tak...
Thank you Father for Thy tender mercies.
Thank you for guiding Doctors hands, for bringing Stephanie and Christian through harrowing hours of surgeries, for blessing their babies with the sustaining love of their aunts and uncles, for the faith, strength and optomism of Courtney, Chup, Lucy, Topher, Lisa and all the others who are loving them and keeping them safe. Thank you for the opportunity for this world-wide family to see pure love and devotion personified and to witness Thy work in our hearts. May we manifest this change in our hearts, with our actions now and always. Thank you.
Going to bed. Checked for update one last time today. You go and make me cry. For lots of reasons.
Yes I am a mom of boys!
Yes I've raised kids who didn't have their parents around.
I got to say the family prayer tonight. Prayed for The Nielsons and specifically for Stephanie's surgery today!
So glad to hear Christian is doing well and praying to hear Stephanie is too!
Goodnight, although I'm sure you won't sleep until you've heard the latest!
I'm praying for all of you.
I include you, Courtney because I know it is not easy to go from mom of a newborn to having three big kids in the house too.
I love this post about Ollie. Being a mom of a little boy is just the most special relationship ever!
This post spoke to me as the mother of two boys. Nie Nie is so lucky to have someone to love her kids so much in her absence. And I'm sure it's not unrequited. You and these kids will have an amazing bond forever. I have to go cry now. And pray more for your sister.
i couldn't sleep and had to check One More Time to see if there was any news on Nie and Christian, and I am so happy the trickling news is good. the image of Ollie saying 'that's my mom' simultaneously widens and breaks my heart.
sleep sweet.
I have two sons and I absolutely loved this post. Well put!
I noticed you said Ipods were put in your sister and christians rooms? I bet they would love to hear their childrens' voices. I'm sure the kids would love recording something for their mom and dad too! Just a thought I had today. I hope you give it a try!
I also have 2 little boys. We pray for your family every night. When we prayed that Stephanie's surgery would go well, I felt a big feeling that all would go well. I am glad that all of you have so much support.
Oh man, my heart just melted away. Bless you and your sweet family, and bless Stephanie and Christian!
I can't be the only man that is ready your blog. Maybe the only one man enough to post. I guess I have been reading it since the accident. It is amazing what your family is able to do. Not just you & Chup, but all of your siblings and your parents. It never fails that I learn something when I check in on Stephanie & Christian. My wife asks me almost daily how they are. We will continue to keep them, as well as your entire family in our prayers.~~ And I remember thinking my mom was pretty awesome when I was young. Now she is enduring the ravishes of alzheimer's and does not remember most of that time. I know Stephanie & Christian will be so grateful for this blog. Especially posts like tonight.
My mother-in-law once said to me, "A mother's love is the only love which grows towards separation." She's right. Love them while you can and be ready for those strings to come untied... I only hope there's invisible strings which *never* come untied and will always bring him home. My son will be 16 in December!
Thinking of you and your entire family during this difficult yet surmountable time,
Anne.
I wanted you (Courtney) and Stephanie to know how much you have changed my family's lives without even knowing you! I randomly found your blog one day, after praying to be a better mother (not that I was bad, I just wanted to be better:)). I really love both of your optimism and it has rubbed off on our family. I even decided to tell myself that I like cleaning (even though I really despise it). My kids and I now say, "we decided we like cleaning now" and clean without complaining. I also liked Stephanie's comment to Ollie when he said he had the "coops" and she told him to cover Jimmy in blankets! I am looking for ways to be positive with my kids now (and creative). Both of your blogs are great...thank you!!
Creatures of filth and delight, there's nothing like little boys, they love their mamas so.
I loved reading your post today. How absolutely true it is. I have two precious sons of my own. One is married and the other one, my precious Preston, passed away when he was 18 of cancer. In our family's case, the Lord said, "no". I hope in your case with Stepanie, the answer is "yes". I fell to my knees the moment I woke up yesterday and prayed for Stephanie and also for you...and Lucy...to continue to strengthen you both as you give this most amazing service to your sister.
With regard, admiration and love,
Mary Lou
Courtney, you make my day. Life truly is in the details.
As some one who NEEDS to write, particularly in times of stress (albeit not nearly so eloquently as you!) I'm sure that your musing are at least a little cathartic. They have become so important to me and so many others who worry and pray for your families day to day well being and the health and recovery of Christian and Stephanie.
I know that the success of Stephanie's surgery will take time to ascertain but I'm so glad the initial news is positive. I checked for an update before bed and now 1st thing in the morning. Glad to hear Christian is doing so remarkably.
Our hearts and prayers to you and your family.
will you keep us posted as you know more today?
I cannot express how much I loved your words from this post. Thank you for finding just the right way to describe how mothers feel
about their sons & for taking a moment to share those feelings with all of us. Our prayers are with you.
So true! Boys do steal their mother hearts, as girls do their daddy's. I am sure they all miss their parents something terrible. It is awesome that they have a great aunt and uncle (and extended family) to be a substitute for a while...
Absolutely beautifully written. I can see the smile of pride on Ollie's face from here.
And the other posters are so correct - you and Stephanie make me want to strive that much harder to be a better mom. Thank you for that.
Raced to the computer this morning to find out news. So happy it was good.
Constantly in my prayers, Em (mom to two sweet boys)
hi Courtney, I am so hapy for the good news you delivered about Christian, and we all wait to hear about Stephanie! I loved your story today, I myself have a daughter and a son, 28 & 30. When my little boy was young we were buddies, as he grew into a man I was number 2, not so bad just different. I danced with him at his weding to Baby of Mine, and now he calls me everyday from the car on his ride home from work. He calls it our "windshield time"! Boys, are a mother's heart content! ~Enjoy! Donna
I was so worried about having a baby boy after I had my daughter. I don't know what to do with a boy!! But there is something amazing about a boy and his Mom. No matter what my little Dax just loves me. His is truly a head over heels kinda love and I am happy to be on the other end.
We are still praying and fasting here. I am so happy to hear of Christian's progress and will eagerly await more news on Steph.By the way, YOU ROCK CJANE!!
What a sweet post. I blogged about something similar the other day with my youngest, 5 year old son. He had said to me as I was tucking and kissing goodnight.
"Can I still give you a hug and a kiss when I'm Zachary's age(he is my 16 year old son)?" Of course I said, you can give me a hug and a kiss when you are an old man. You're never to old to hug and kiss your mom!
I love little boys!!
sweet story. you really do have a way of putting the most tender moments into words. when step gets better she is going to be able to read these things and feel them. its amazing.
glad to hear the good news. continued prayers
Courtney, I continue to keep Christian, Stephanie, their children and extended families in my prayers. I will be adding Christian & Stephanie's names to the Washington DC temple prayer roll later today.
I wanted to mention a book I read, "Love Greg and Lauren" about a woman who survived the 9/11 attack and suffered burns to 80% of her body. She made it. Looks amazing. Imagine what our Heavenly Father can do!!!
Courtney, thank you for taking on the role of family blogger so that we can receive updates. Your sister is indeed a special woman - and although I've never met her in person, just like everyone else, I admire her joyful spirit. And I have equally loved your blog which is so filled with hope and love. We should all have such close knit families.
Kathi
Thank you for sharing your family's journey with such graciousness and humor. Our prayers are with your family.
Your writing is tremendous. I'm seriously hoping that you decide to publish it at some point.
I wanted to check for an update first thing today. Your words made me misty eyed - so beautiful.
Lynne O.
You hit the nail on the head with this one Courtney. I've got three little boys and am tears after reading this.
I cannot imagine the depth of gratitude Stephanie will feel for what you are doing. True love.
That's great to hear about Christian. We'll keep praying for Stephanie throughout the day!
Oh, my! Another tear jerker!! What a sweet post and thank you for the updates!
When my son screams, "MOMMY!" I, too, go running....no wonder men are sometimes so spoiled!!
We are praying for you! Please shoot me an email if you need anything (we have connections there at Maricopa!) :) littlebphotographycompany@gmail.com
Thinking of you!
Beautifully written...heart-breaking and heart-warming at the same time!
You are an amazing, beautiful writer. Thank you so much for sharing them with all of us.
I am like thousands of others, who didn't know about Stephanie until after the accident. Now, I can't count the number of times I think about her, Christian, you, the children, throughout the day. I couldn't sleep last night, wondering how her surgery went. Thank you, thank you for sharing.
I totally get the little boy thing. I am the mom of two little boys, and my 5-year old tells me he is going to "live with me forever". If I even dare suggest that he may find a lovely girl to marry one day, he flips out. Little boys are so very special. Oliver (and The Chief, of course!) is so lucky to have you.
another beautiful post. keeping you and yours in my thoughts always.
my thoughts + prayers are still with your crew. thanks for posting.
Awww. I'm glad Ollie loves you both so much. He's a darling little boy. All of them are such cute kids.
I'm glad Christian is coming around more. How wonderful! I will keep praying for the day when Stephanie will too!!
I love how you write too. You're really good at expressing yourself.
Oh, and tears roll down my cheeks. Just because Stephanie is Ollie's main squeeze does not mean that he does not have a special place for you in his heart and lots of love to go around. He'll always remember the cuddles, costume changes, etc. that you are sharing.
Wonderful news about both of the patients. My thoughts and prayers of with all of you always. Oh, and if you don't mind, give sweet little Ollie, and Claire and Jane and Gigs and you a Chup and Lucy, too, a hug from Massachusetts. I have lots of love to go around, too.
you have so many gifts - one of them is storytelling
Hurray for no more dragon breath for Christian!
Ollie's a lucky guy indeed to have such a doting Aunt.
smooch from sandi in az
Someone who knows I'm following your blogs just forwarded me an article from LDS Living online which focuses on Stephanie, you and the blogging community. You probably already know about this, but if not it can be found at LDS Living Magazine on-line.
Amazing. This post brought me to tears, it is SO well written.
I've been reading your blog (as well as Stephanie's) for about a month now. I have become a little obsessed :) with your family. You are truly an inspiration. And, like others have said, you (and Stephanie)have made me want to be a better mom. Thank you for sharing your lives, and enriching ours.
We will keep sending our prayers your way.
Thank you for your continued updates. I too found out about Stephanie after the accident. I read your posts first thing in the morning when I get to work. I will continue to pray for their recovery and for the rest of the family as you care for them and their children.
I am the mother of a 22 y.o. son. I was a teenage mom and he was my world. He has found a new love in an amazing girl and will be getting married in June. Your post is so true. Hold the Chief as close as you can now. Kiss and hug him everyday, even when he doesn't want you to.
Yup I agree whole heartedly. I am amazed by you. I don't have any sisters but if I did I would love to have YOU! I would love to know the person caring for my babies loved them as much as you love hers. I have a two-year old boy, a 7 mo. old girl and I babysit a 13 mo. old girl whose parents really needed some help (there's some other trying components to the situation). Sometimes I feel overwhelmed with three kids in diapers and no time without a child. But then I think of you and your post yesterday and your post today (heck any of your posts) and I realize I can forget myself and go to work! Since I've had that attitude I've been enjoying my days with the three little munchkins.
What a wonderfully rocking post to get me started today. Thanks again for making me smile and cry at the same time! Prayers continue.
Thanks for your great posts. You are an amazing writer and part of an amazing family. I'm glad things are looking up for the Nielsens!
I am glad to hear that Christian is doing better. I hope Stephanie news is just as good. Ollie is truly blessed to be with someone who is so in-love with him during this time. You are truly an angel on earth.
And again you have moved me with your writings. What a special find you and your sister are. So glad to hear about Stephanie and Christian.
One of the best, and sometimes worst, things about mommy-ing little boys is what you find in their pockets. I have smiled to myself many a time as I've done the laundry for my three boys (now 7,10&13) seeing their personalities evidenced by what they've left behind. Treasure troves, little boys pants pockets are.
As I said the blessing at dinner last night, a close to my fast for them, I asked Heavenly Father again to "bless the Nielsons..."
at the end of the prayer my own dear husband said, "what happened to the Nielsons?" I said, "Remember them? I told you about the mom And her husband in the plane crash? from online? She had surgery today...."
I continue to pray for you all.
Love, Beth (again)
The mama/boy love is a strong thing. I have two boys who are in love with me and I with them.
(They tell me my breath smells in the mornings and I look crazy when I wake up, yet still they love me...ahhh true love)
Tender Mercies. These are the words that come to my mind when I think of you and Lucy so lovingly caring for these boys as their mother would. You are a blessing and a gift to these sweet children.
Great news about Christian! Praying for good news about Stephanie.
Just what I needed...a good cry first thing in the morning. You're a beautiful writer, and it's a lovely story.
Praying for you all.
Loved this story. I've been thinking and praying for Christian and Stephanie as well. I'm so happy to see that her little ones are being cared for so well. I'm sure she's so proud and thankful to you.
you know, of course, you don't need to be his 'number one squeeze' to be deeply loved by him. what is heartbreaking here is how much ollie loves and misses his mother. i bet this gets lost in the day-to-day (mercifully). ollie is SO LUCKY to have you, courtney, loving him at this moment.
So glad for the positive update even if it is preliminary. I prayed all day yesterday for good news. And this story - UGH! I totally got teary-eyed reading the end. I pray those babies are snuggling with their mom and dad as soon as possible.
It's true...it's ALLLLLLL true!
What a beautiful post! Although I have never met your family and actually didn't start reading Stephanie's blog until the accident happened, I have become completely hooked by your story. I am completely in awe at your family and their strength and have been inspired in my own life. In a world where there is constantly so much bad and evil it is so uplifting to read about so much good and so much love coming from a tragic situation. Thank you for being an example to thousands around you and we will keep your sister and your entire family in our prayers during this challenging time!
i love my girls. love them. adore them, even. possibly to an unhealthy ( for me ) level. but i've been saying this for months, and this just solidifies it. i need a boy.
so exciting to hear about christian and stephanie ... prayers continue from way up here.
Oh, how I wish yours and Stephanie's blogs had been around in 1995 when I had my first of 3 kiddos! I would have been a much better mother!
I pray for God's comfort and strength to rain down on you, Chup, Stephanie and Christian!
Is it okay that I'm in love with four boys?
-Lana
That is simply beautiful. One of those sweet moments as a mom that you never want to forget. I am sure that it will warm Stephanie's heart in the days to come.
By the way, thanks to whoever re-posted Stephanie's 'I am a Queen, look what I just did' post.
It is far and away my most favorite NieNie post EVER. So beautiful.
THANK YOU!
That was so beautiful. I sit here at work crying like a baby. Thank you for these amazing posts/updates.
wow, that puts in words, what i didn't know how to say about the love and two-way bond i have with my little man. i'll be anxious to hear about steph's recovery and good job christian!
Wow! You really nailed it about little boys. My two sons (8 and 5) are so in love with me that I think their dad actually gets jealous. They like to kiss me on the lips and see the reaction that gets from him. On the flip side, they get very jealous when my husband shows me affection in front of them. It's funny!
Crying again!
You get me every time!!
Oh man. I'm crying like a baby!
What a sweet post! I love Ollie's chocolate chin and Nie's tiara in the pic. That's what I call a handsome couple.
wonderful post---i am a mother of 2 boys, myself. i just saw the girls walking to school---not because i am stalking you but because i had just dropped off my kindergartener. they were full of smiles and looked so happy.
Your writing is lovely. Never stop writing.
Good news about Christian! Prayers are being answered. I continue to pray.
Love,
Leslie in Missouri
I love your post. As the mother of a handful of boys (yes that means 5) I agree completly boys need constant love, which I am happy to dispense daily. Your family has been in my prayers.
good to hear the sugery went well as far as you know and the news about Christian.
Ollie's reaction to seeing a picture of his beautiful Mommy was touching. I can't imagine what the kids are thinking...missing their mommy.
Oh how I completely understand how you feel about The Chief and now Ollie. I have a little one - 5 months old tomorrow - and just last night I told him he could sleep in our room until he was ready to move out... He's my love FOR SURE.
Ollie, Claire, Jane and Gigs are amazingly blessed to have wonderful Aunts to be stand in moms...
Love this post! I have the same feelings about my little boy. Sending prayers to all of you!
Courtney, you are such a gifted writer! And so dang witty! I have 2 boys,(a girl, too) but 2 boys that I am deeply in love with. I've been caught saying out loud that as long as I have my boys to kiss on and cuddle, I don't need another man. (There daddy is pretty yummy too!)
Prayers still going up for the patients from my home.
Oh that's great news!!! Come on Stephanie...you CAN do it!!!! Prayers, prayers, and more prayers!!!!
You write so beautiful. How is that you bring tears to my eyes everyday for people I have never met? Thanks for keeping us all posted! I have two sons and my oldest tell me he is going to marry me someday in the temple. I'll be so sad the day he realizes that's not true.
I am so happy to hear that everything went well. I work at AOL, and saw Stephanie's story on our home page. It really touched my heart. I check back often to see how she and Christian are doing. I am sending good thoughts and prayers their way.
Your gift with words...what a beautiful way to start the day. Thank you for the updates and for your always uplifting message...I'm now going to go kiss and hug my 2 boys (even though my 11 year may protest).
Still praying.
tears pouring down your face in an office filled with men isn't easily explainable. thank you for reminding us all why we love the NieNie family so much. your hearts are so big and you encourage each of us to open up our big hearts too.
may God speed Stephanie and Christian's recovery. I think about them and pray for them (and you) every day.
I just started reading your blog and following this story. Word travels slowly to New Jersey! My sis-in-law in Utah had this link on her blog so here I am.
I am in tears right now. Your post was so beautiful. You are an AMAZING writer! Thanks for sharing. (Incidentally, I feel the same about my own sweet boy. I love the way you put it into words).
My prayers are with Stephanie and Christian and all of your family. It's amazing how many lives they have touched.
http://ldslivingonline.com/article.php?articleId=72688
Saw this today and wanted to make sure you saw it.
I really do need to stop reading your blog at work, you always leave me in a weeping mess. Beautifully written, as usual! Our prayers are still with Nie and Christian and their little ones. (and you, too!) Thanks for the ongoing updates!
such a sweet post.
What a sweet lil boy! :)
Wonderful post as usual.
That was beautiful, I love your theory. I'm glad to hear about Christian, and hope the preliminary reports on Steph are true and only keep getting better.
This entire precious family remains in my prayers. They all drifted into my mind last night as I tried to drift to sleep and I offered prayers for precious people I have never met... but am blessed to know online. May God cover you with His very Hands of comfort, strength and healing today! Much love, Dawn
Will you please stop making me cry. I think I need to read your beautiful insights before I apply my make-up everyday.
So tender. I cry every time I read your writing.
you capture the mothering of boys so beautifully. i love your writings... thanks so much for sharing. still praying for all of you.
I have two boys of my own (three, if you include the huz). You're so right about them needing to be in love with someone, something.
Beautiful, sweet post that hit home.
Happy to hear the news on Christian. We've been praying for Stephanie. Can't wait to hear news on that, too. Thanks for keeping us posted.
Ms Courtney, you are making us cry again! I never noticed how much Oliver looks like his mama until the pic in this post. . .its the cheeks and the smile. We are praying that Stephanie's body decides it loves her new skin and wants to keep it :)
Love the little boys SO much... Mine said to me the other night that boys get married when they grow up but their moms stay in the house that they grew up in. "It's kind of like the servant who stays behind in the castle while the king goes out to find other lands." I just about died. I always thought I was his queen. Clearly, I was wrong.
was reading this morning and thought of NieNie and all of you, her family.
"And this is the account of Ammon and his brethren (NieNie and her beautiful family), their journeyings in the land of Nephi, their sufferings in the land, their sorrows, and their afflictions, and their INCOMPREHENSIBLE JOY, and the reception and safety of the brethren in the land of Jershon. And now may the Lord, the Redeemer of all men, bless their souls forever."
Alma 28:8
Your words all ring so true! and it is such a beautiful thing. SO happy to hear that Christian is up to brushing and that Nie's surgery went well. We are still saying prayers for them at our house, even my tender 3 year old boy remembers them in his.
Oh my - I'm going to have to quit reading the updates while at work - because I cry with each one!!! That is an awesome story of Ollie and his first true love!!!
Great news about Christian and Steph - prayers are coming your way!!!
I hope one day that I am as good a mother as you and Stephanie are. I think of your family often.
I check daily with great hope for good news and pray nightly for healing strength and grace for your sweet sister and her beautiful family.
i lost my sister recently to breast cancer after 2 years of slugging it out - she too was a brave and beautiful lady who loved her family and life so much. she had 3 young children and as their auntie and their mother's sister it's my honor to do my best to represent her and try to love, guide and respect them the way she did and would. although i'll never come close i've got the greatest example in her...
her entire treatment and care were at the huntsman clinic and her husband moved the family to layton and i can't say enough about the people of utah. i've spent a lot of time there and the sense of community and generosity of everyone i was blessed to encounter there was tremendous.
from one sister to another, take heart and god bless. you're all doing a beautiful job of truly recognizing all of the the grace that your angels are providing you with. i am so inspired by your faith and know that god will work miracles for stephanie, christian, their children and your entire family.
in my heart of hearts, i know your sister is so proud of you all and i am too. love and prayers to you all.
shelley - kirkland, wa
So true! I sit here right now with my 4 yr old boy draped on my lap. Sweet tears flow ( yet again) as I read this.
This is so beautiful!
As the mother of sons I am tearing up at this love story. So beautiful. Sending prayers your way.
We are praying for Nie out here with our little family in Florida. After spending hours reading her archives, I'm a completely different person. How can you know Stephanie and not want to be a thousand times a better mother? She has changed my life. Completely. Thank you for continuing all this writing, Courtney. I hope she recovers completely and you can be reunited again.
love love love
Sarah
Courtney, you are an angel on earth. The power of your family is amazing! Reading your blog is a great way to start the day – live in the moment and enjoy all the little things in life.
Stephanie and Christian are so lucky to have such wonderful support. You might not realize it, but you are making a difference in many people’s lives. The power of blogging is awesome! Keep up the great work – your rewards will be many! I will continue to pray for Stephanie and Christian.
The love between little boys and their mamas are always cherished. Those special moments are the mold for the future in their becoming.
I can just picture the sweet & tender moment of all of the children gathered in a circle sitting on the floor captivating the beauty of their mother and reminiscing that actual event. Because of your interest in exactly that...they were able to look back and relive that special moment. That is true love for a child. Children bring out the love of Christ in our hearts. They are special spirits...and I love the feelings that follow such experiences.
I am glad to hear of the improvements of Christian & Stephanie. My prayers and thoughts are endless in their behalf...as well as for you "Court Nay" :)
ollie is one blessed little boy to have you, court-nay:) they all three are!!!
i always keep stephanie and christian in my thoughts and prayers; but i thought stephanie's surgery was today 17th. was it yesterday???
love and prayers,
dani
Prayers & thoughts your way!!
Your writing is amazing and heartwarming. You're doing such a fantastic thing. Wishing the best to you all today!
To answer many questions and concerns for the Kinneard family....Doug had an amazing insurance policy...and because of this his family will be fine....Please...Please...Please avoid comments discrediting the help given to the Kinneard family. Yes, they need love and support too...as they just lost their father & husband, however they are being well cared for!!!The Nielson family will be left with Millions of dollars in debt...from medical bills....caring for their kids...their home....etc.!!! Yes, they are blessed to have insurance...but most insurance companies top out at $1 million!! Before the day is over when Stephanie can return home, Stephanies medical expenses will have incured over $5 million!!!
Please keep that in mind. We are all trying to help a family in need!! Thats whats most important.
I just want to say that you and your family are amazing. I saw you and your family on the news talking about nienie and I was curios to read both blogs. My mother was a working mom (flight attendant) never around and my older sister is so busy that we do not have a close bond. To see the love you have for your sister and your family and the love she has for her kids and husband are inspiring. Although I still do not have children I know that I can be a mother that enjoys being at home and embracing all that God has blessed me with. Thank you for restoring the hope in motherhood. Not too often do you hear the positive in motherhood. May God continue to bless your family with unity and healing. There are millions of people praying for your sister and brother-in-law's recovery. Keep doing what you are doing.
::sniff::
c jane,
I've been hooked on both your blog and your sister's blog for the last month now. I check them daily for news about Nie Nie and Christian, we pray for all of you (you are truly an angel for taking in her precious little ones...). You both inspire me in different ways and remind me to really live each day. My little man who is 6 includes you and Nie Nie in his good night prayers. I noticed that your sister wrote about her being a queen last October after giving birth to her son and it really touched me. I had my 2nd son last year on Oct 15th, but he was stillborn at 7 1/2 months due to his heart stopping. So somehow I feel connected to your stories and really, really have a new appreciation for life and how precious it is. As for my 6 year old, he is truly a mamas boy and I love him to pieces! God bless you and keep you.
OH dear, LDS Living gave your sister's blog address incorrectly. I have sent them a message. In the meantime some DEPLORABLE person has taken the opportunity to say that they have items for auction on ebay that will benefit the Nielson's. I doubt this is true. I hope LDS Living can correct this ASAP. Thanks, and you are ALL in my daily prayers.
that made me cry! thanks for taking such good care of these children. you're great!
So "that's my mom" made me cry. all was well until that part and the tears flowed. thanks for sharing your life and its lessons with us all.
What great news about Christian! I hope he'll be able to communicate clearly wih you soon!
Oh, man. This post made me weep and then give each of my two children a hug & kiss. I can't even begin to imagine what your family is going through. I don't pray generally but I've been sending positive thoughts to Stephanie & Christian and hope it won't be long before the children see their parents again.
C Jane,
You inspire me with your writing, as does your sister. I love that you are re-posting some of her best stuff! I'm on the edge of my seat everyday, as I read the latest on their recovery. Thank you for representing the LDS faith SO well. What an example you are to us all! Chief is one lucky little dude to have you as his mama! My two busy, crazy (yet lovable) kids almost gave me a heart attack this morning with their tantrums, and then I turn on the computer and... *sigh* ... I feel some peace, knowing other moms understand what I'm going through. What would ANY of us do without blogging??? :)
I read your posts and remember how much I love being a mom.
Your blog is my cup of coffee in the morning! I put my two boys at the table for breakfast and immediately sit and read, I guess you can say it is my fix. Some mornings tears others laughter. You are amazing, believe me you will leave an imprint on Ollie's heart, just as your sister and you have on mine. My favorite line of all time, "The dude is my fella". Love it! Keeping your family always in our thoughts and prayers.
I come here everyday. To your blog and Stephanies. My life changed because of these great big, delicious words that your family has such a talent for placing on a page. I am praying constantly for Stephanie, For Christian, for the children, for all of you.
I am 27 years old. just like Stephanie. and yet, I find myself saying on a regular basis... I want to be just like her when I grow up :)
Blessings and strength and love to all of you. I'll be checking back often to see how Stephanie's surgery went.
Love,
Melissa
I just want to take you all in my arms and hug you... that's the mother in me. What a blessing that family is always there when we need them to take care of each other.
i haven't posted on this blog yet but i too am following you all quite closely and think about you, the kids, and stephanie and christian every single day.
his mom will love reading this and seeing you take over what she started and know they were so loved!!!
Your posts are inspiring and I look forward to reading them everyday, it brightens my life and gives me hope. I also check for the updates on the patients and I am always praying an hoping that they will be well. You are a good soul Jane. :)
no words.....my little guy is 3 and this just has me melting....
Ok this post has me bawling like a baby. bless his sweet little heart. He is so proud of his mommy and I am sure he misses his "love" so bad, but he's lucky to have an aunt and uncle and all his other family doing such a wonderful job. God Bless you and awaiting and praying the news of Stephanie today. Courtney
what a precious post
i hope someone is reading these to stephanie as i'm sure they will be a balm to her soul
praying all went well
can't wait to hear an update
I have been keeping tabs on your sister, her husband and the rest of your beautiful family. My continued thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
This post was beautiful and made me cry a happy cry. I love how you find the positive in everything!
As someone raised by family after the loss of my parents, I sincerely pray that God blesses your efforts to bring a Mother's love to your sister's children. I also pray that your sister and brother-in-law are healed and can return to them soon.
I have to say that your blogs are helping me return to prayer. They are also a reminder to never forget what is truly important in life, and to appreciate what we have.
My prayers will continue for you all.
What a beautiful post. I too do not know your family, but have quickly fallen in love with Steph and her beautiful family. I am not a mother, but after reading some of the nienie dialouges, I am amazed at what an absoulute amazing mom Stephanie is. She makes everday a treasure because of her children. I hope that I too can be such a great mom as she is someday.
I am thinking of them, and keeping them in my prayers.
Thanks for the updates! :)
Such a beautiful child from a beautiful family. Thinking of Stephanie and Christian and wishing all of you the very best!
I absolutely love what you wrote about Ollie. Such sweet tender feelings. I hope my two boys feel that way when they look at me! You're an awesome auntie to show those children so much love!
Thank you for sharing glimpses into your sweet family!
You bring me to tears...just last night I was struggling with feelings that I was a "bad mother". Your blogs are so loving and optimistic and they really encourage me to be a "better mother" to my son. You are so right, I am the only one that he looks at with those bright blue loving eyes. Thank you again for your positive attitude and bless your family. Stephanie and Christian are in my prayers!
I dreamed last night that my son was marrying his girlfriend, and that I was crying at the wedding! Wonder what the "hidden" meaning of that was?...:)...Praying hard for all of you...Hope Stephanie's skin isn't rejected...Katie
As I am less than two months away from having my first child...a son...this post was extra special to my heart. It has made me smile over and over again.
Why do you gotta make cry. I've just stopped wearing makeup altogether, in case I need to read your blog. :)
Courtney, I just discovered your blog and your sister's a few days ago and am glued. (And praying.) This post was so beautiful and wrenching at the same time. Blessings to you for loving and guiding these children through what could be such a disorienting time for them.
P.S. Are you able to share how aware Stephanie and especially Christian are of what happened and what's going on? I keep thinking about that.
this was a wonderful post. i have been following your blog since i heard about your sister's crash and have been overwhelmed with love for her family and yours. i want you to know we've kept you constantly in our thoughts and prayers. i, like so many other moms, have been so inspired by stephanie's blog and hope to be even a tiny bit as creative as she was so that my children can have a wonderful and happy life. she's truly been a blessing for showing the beauty that motherhood holds. i recently had my first child, a little boy, so most of the things i read are dear to my heart as i cannot imagine what you must be going through having 4 additional children all of the sudden. i wish you the best but i know you will be just fine because you are just as inspirational as stephanie. you make the best out of life every day and i love that. i will be checking more and more for updates. again, we are keeping you in our prayers! much love.
There is nothing like a good teeth brushing to make you feel like yourself again. I'm sure Steph did great, she has hundreds of people pulling for her. OMG your post about Ollie has just killed me. I have one little boy, Landen and you are so right. They are in love with their mamas and we are so in love with them. Ollie is the luckiest boy because he has 2 mamas to be in love with him. You are amazing. Whenever stuff is getting hard, just remember that. You are one of the best human beings on this earth.
How absolutely touching. Children say the sweetest things, and you always know they are truthful and strait from the heart.
I am at my computer right now bawling my eyes out! How beautiful are these words...thanks for sharing! My son is the most precious thing to me, and I feel the love between a mother and her son is a love that can't be described into words. Ollie is so lucky to have such a strong and amazing mother...i know he sees it too! And I might add a truly amazing auntie! What a truly spiritual and amazing thing!
Thanks again...my prayers are with Stephanie and Christian always! Now I will go hug and squeeze my little guy!
This is my first time commenting, but I've followed your blog for a couple of months now and it is a favorite! I was so sorry to hear about Stephanie and CHristian, and I pray that they continue to heal and can make a full recovery. It is just absolutely amazing to witness such an outpouring of support and love from people all over the world. May Heavenly Father continue to bless them and you all in all your efforts. You guys are truly inspiring!!
I haven't really shed any physical tears for Steph, even though my heart has been aching.
Until this post.
Totally got me. For Ollie, for my own son and for the love of mothers and sons everywhere!
i have spent most of my day reading stephanie's blog from beginning to almost end. i keep thinking "wow. what an amazing mother. what an amazing father. what an amazing family and life. this family is so great and i want to be just like this when i have babies of my own." then i clicked on your blog to read the latest update and wow, i had totally pushed the accident to the back of my head. i can hardly believe that someone so full of life and love could have something so bad happen to them, it just seems like something out of the movies. now i think "wow. what an amazing mother. what an amazing father. WHAT AN AMAZING FAMILY." you are all so strong and so supportive and such a blessing not only to stephanie and christian, but to stangers like me who are truely lifted up by your positive spirit and all-encompassing love. thank you for showing me what unconditonal love really is and also what the power of love can do. i think of stephanie, christian, and the rest of their family often throughout my day and my prayers are always with them. god bless you all.
oh wow, i just reread my comment and by "almost end" i mean i haven't finished yet! ahh, i hope no one read that the wrong way.
much love! xox
You really have a beautiful way of writing. Thanks for sharing. I love your updates!
Your whole family is all I can think about. Every single one of you has done amazing things.. some things that you have no clue about.
Thanks for keeping us posted.
We'll keep them in our thoughts & prayers.
I was just wondering if you have been able to film any hospital visits.. not to share with all of us, but to show them someday.??..
Keep up your hard work & positiveness. It echoes.
You are a gift. I am praying so much for your beautiful family, and am thankful for Stephanie and her sweet words, amazing photos, and the love, so much love, that emanates from all that she creates, especially her little ones. too precious for words. xo.
seriously so beautiful.
You are doing an awesome job! Thanks for sharing your experiences with someone unknown to you like me that gets inspiration from everything your family is going through. God Bless!
I have 3 girls and am heart sick for a boy. Reading your story put tears in my eyes and my heartache deepened for the desire to have a boy. So sweet. Thank you for loving her children.
yes, eloquent is the word i was looking for! i love reading this blog. your beautiful family emulates so much love (unconditional), peace, hope, strength, and happiness!
you are ALL constantly in my thoughts (since meeting you all yesterday as i devoured your entire blog) and prayers.
it is true what you say about boys. my oldest is a girl and i was a little scared of having a boy as i am from a family of all girls and only a mom! but when my son was born - amazing. the bond just felt different. i could totally see how "mama's boys" are created! i love what you said about him finding the right person and giving his heart that has been for you to her. very sweet.
Perhaps it may be possible that you have hired an assistant to sort through all the mail by now??? I'm one of the millions of strangers that has been deeply touched by the story you have chosen to share with the world. I know there is always good that comes from our trials and I wanted to thank you and your sister for the example and light that you have shared with a world in so much need of it. Thank you both for making me want to be a better mommy. For taking in each moment and realizing that we never know what tomorrow brings-so make the most of today. You are an amazing sister to become a mother of 4 overnight and never look back. I have no doubt that our Savior is holding you and her in his arms. He will be the strenght you need. Give your husband a big kiss for being the kind of man that could take on that resposibility...a rare find these days! We continue to pray for you and your family.
I can completely vouch for your opinion of little boys and loving them and them loving you, for I am a single mother of three darling little boys! The divorce is quite fresh and just the other night, my sweet Hyrum said, Mom, why can't you just marry me, now the you won't be married to Dad anymore?" Talk about yankin your heart strings!
I have read this post now three times in the past 2 days! It is beautiful! You are beautiful! Your manner, your eloquence! Thank you for sharing and Thank you for being an inspiration to me as a person supporting those they love most in need. You have done this with such humble grace, such a willing and loving mentality.
I did read Nie Nie before this tragedy but since I've been able to delve into her blog and she is truely a delight, worthy of the praise and obvious throng of supporters. But if I am being just as honest, I have to say I may just be YOUR new biggest fan! Sending love and prayers for you and yours.
I have read this post now three times in the past 2 days! It is beautiful! You are beautiful! Your manner, your eloquence! Thank you for sharing and Thank you for being an inspiration to me as a person supporting those they love most in need. You have done this with such humble grace, such a willing and loving mentality.
I must admit that I didn't read Nie Nie before this tragedy but since I've been able to delve into her blog and she is truely a delight, worthy of the praise and obvious throng of supporters. But if I am being just as honest, I have to say I may just be YOUR biggest fan! Sending love and prayers for you and yours.
I just heard about NieNie last week (and have heard about her from several friends since then). I'm so glad to hear Christian's news! You all are in my thoughts and prayers - thanks for the updates and sharing your gift of writing! Know that you and yours are loved so much by so many. :)
this is the first time that i have grasped the tragedy behind this event and seen stephanie as someone's beloved mother, daughter, sister, and friend and not just an icon. your words finally broke through, and my first thought was, 'she has to get better, she has to get better for ollie!'
Thrilled to hear about Christian! Both of them...and your entire family! have been in my thoughts and prayers constantly. I'm in tears reading that Christian is recovering....and i pray every day that Steph will follow in his steps:)
hundreds of hugs and prayers sent your way from Florida!
Oh what a beautiful post! I am in awe of you Courtney. Being a brand new mom and taking such wonderfully good angelic care of Nie's children too. I am sure your heart is full and your plate too! My prayers are with all of you and these sweet kids who must miss their paretns so, but in the meantime have such a soft place to fall. What a wonderful gift, that goes both ways! Thank you!
Already fragile with a perpetual lump in my throat and an ever ready tear since my baby boy left the nest in the spring to go to college, live in his own place,fix his own dinners...this post made me sob. Your family is so beautifully exquisite and you , my dearest, are an amazing writer,mom, sis, human being. Thank you. Also thanks to Anne Kaelber and her Mother in Law's quote! Lovely! There goes another kleenex..
All right, being the mother of two sons, I completely agree with the fact that they take your heart. I have fallen for them from day one, and I keep falling further.
The emotions you expressed in this post are so close and real to me.
I am sure he has a special place for you, but it melts me that you could see how much he loves his mom.
There's definitely an amazing relationship between mommies and little boys. So sweet!
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