"I am going to find a way to pay you back."Stephanie said to me when I visited with her last week.
I tried to communicate how much she already has paid me back. How much my life has changed dramatically in such a way that can't always be processed. Because of this situation I've met some incredible human beings. Been given words, gifts and food daily by strangers and friends. Gave me a chance to have a household of lovely children. Grew closer to my family. My husband. My God.
(Someday I intend to tell her the story of how the world changed while she was sleeping. I'm satisfied with posts, e-mails and hand written cards as evidence. Otherwise, how could she believe what blessings were born from a fatal plane crash?)
"How about you move to Utah, be my neighbor and we'll help eachother raise our children?"
I suggested.
Today The Chief played side-by-side with Ollie in the girl's closet. Now that my talented child can sit up (big boy!) I take advantage of my ability to prop him somewhere while I change the laundry from washer to dryer. (Laundry!) Today they were playing with large plastic insects, metal cars and the zipper on Claire's backpack.
The Chief--bless his heart--has no idea that he's actually an only child. In his lifetime he has known these sisters who use him for the baby fish when they play ocean, or call him "coconut head" on account of his perfectly shaped noggin. Gigs has to be restrained from devouring the baby which he can proudly call by name. Then there is Ollie who can make The Chief laugh (chuckle derived from the gut) like no other specimen. We missed hearing that bellow while Ollie was out-of-town. The Chief gets very delirious around the children (and sometimes over-stimulated, yes) and lonely when they are off to their daily goings on.
And in the spring, Lucy will add another baby to the mix child stew.
So here we are, and here we will be.
Stephanie will be moving to rehab soon. She will learn to use her muscles again. We aren't sure how long she'll be a patient in a new hospital, but we're planning on her recovery continuing in Utah. She wants to come home to a new life with her husband and her children. The mountains have always given her dual strength. Her body climbs them, her spirit cherishes them. And we, her family, her mother, her loyal Y mountain can't wait for her to come.
I think Steph liked my neighborly offer because after I suggested it she quickly turned her head towards mine and decidedly nodded.
"Deal."
165 Pieces of Opinion:
Beautiful! Loving the pictures of The Chief lately :-) Reminds me of my own little coconut head!
Hooray!!!
and so another chapter continues. rehab. living closer to you.
and by the way, i think it's splendid that your son feels as though he has brothers and sisters through nie's children. and rightly so, for he does. :)
we continue to pray for you all.
much love,
m.
Sisters living close by is always the best way to heal!
I think it would be great for you all to be close (geographically I mean. You are all obviously close!)
Stop making me cry!Every time i read your words i think you can't tell me anything else that will make me weep but next time you do! what could be better for you all as a family to have you all as neighbours looking out for each other. Steph and mr n getting their strength from each other and those mountains.
Cant tell you enough how I love your words.
once again
love always karan
Wonderful news!!
What a beautiful post, again! It's been said many times, but I just have to say it again: You have such a way with words - it's just perfect writing!-- Thank you!
You and your wonderful family continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.
I'm also sending a lot of prayers and 'good energy' Stephanie's way.
Love from the heart of Europe,
Nicole (Katzelsdorf, Austria)
YAY!!!!!
Thank you so much for continuing your updates. You are all so blessed to have each other.
What a sweet post about Stephanie's progress and your thoughts and feelings. She is such a lucky girl to have you as a sister. You are doing a fabulous job helping her and her precious family. It is so lovely to hear that she will be in Utah sooner than later.
Awesome! I'm glad she liked the idea of being close to you guys. You all are going to need each other.
I'm so happy to hear that she seems to be doing so well. It's so nice that she will be coming "home" closer to your family. You are a saint....thank you again for letting us peak into your lives. You really have no idea how your family has changed people for the better - me included.
Love the term 'coconut head'! Too cute for words. Stephanie's news is wonderful as well. Her strength and determination are going to take her farther than any doctor can imagine. Oh, and kudos to the Chief for mastering the art of sitting.
I get it. My sister lives too far away (a plane ride for sure) and we're missing out on alot. No tragedy here, just loneliness.
so great that the chief won't have to go back to being an only child once the nielson's are healed. I, too, love his coconut head!
what will you do with all of your free time once it's just the three of you? have another baby so you'll have enough laundry?!
God has blessed you in a way which in turn has blessed many others with new perspective.
Out of my eyes are pouring tears of joy. What a joyful post!
Once again, I begin my morning with tears after reading your post.. but happy tears.
Loved the update.. you are an amazing writer. Thank you for letting us know what's up with Nie.
Coming home....in more ways than one...My heart is fukk for you today!
AWESOME!
She's changed sooo many of us.
Chief an only child. Ha!
aaaaahhhh....home!
A beautiful thing- especially when surrounded by family!
btw...that's one cute coconut head! :)
Courtney ... As I read your post, my heart filled with a familiar song from our religious tradition:
"Be not afraid,
I go before you always.
Come, follow me,
and I will give you rest."
You continue to be both Blessed and Blessing amidst the love-laden chaos ... and I continue to hold you and yours in my prayer.
Do you know why we all love you and your family sooo much? Because you are exactly who we would hope to be if our lives took the same turn. There is something so powerful about a person who greets life's challenges with such grace, humour and gratitude. Thank you so much for the daily inspiration and for sharing your life with us. I'm sure I can speak for many when I say that we love you all!
That is so great and it will be so good for her, for the whole family. Oh I am so glad that she is progressing so well.
Hugs and smiles to you. Suzy
extended families growing and living together. it's how it should be. lovely post. thank you.
I just want to tell you how much your family gives me strength...when I'm tired, or cranky or sad, I read your blog and realize that I am okay and I can make it through all of life's challenges through faith and love.
Thank you.
I'm so happy that you and Stephanie will be living close by again. You can tell in her earlier posts how much she longed to be near you all while in Arizona. And to have the Chief and his cousins close would be ideal!
Love the coconut head!
(PS..Got my "nie" tee in the mail yesterday...it's adorable!!)
Joy! I am losing sight of where your families end/begin. Such a blessed melding of children! I had never read a blog before mid-August past when I heard about Nienie's postings and the accident. Now it is one of the first things I do in the morning and in the evening. Bless you for what you are doing for your family, your "readers" and the world as we follow your postings. Keep those posts and pictures coming. The children are darling. Love it that little "coconut" head is sitting on his on and "hanging out" with Ollie.
I'm delurking finally after many months. What an inspiration you guys are. My heart has broken and then sang because of your story. Also, my patients will also benefit. I'm a Burn Nurse in Kentucky and I just have a renewed sense of compassion and faith in the patients and families that I'm blessed to encounter. Thank you Jane and Stephanie. Oh and that little coconut head, that's a whole other comment. What a gorgeous little boy!
Yay! The sisters back together again!
How wonderful for you and for the children! Good news for the chief!
I agree that he is definitely one adorable baby!
I received my Nie t-shirt yesterday and I can't wait to wear it with pride. Your posts and Nie's reposts always make my day.
You make me wish I had sisters! (yea only boys at our house)
Thank you for showing all of us how much one family can truly love one another. As I prepare for seminary this morning I am reminded of this verse John 15:13
You by choice have made each other your friends and now you willing give all to each other. This is a beautiful tribute to your testimonies of the Savior. Thanks for sharing.
hugs
tricia
I am so excited for Stephanie to come home and be with her Mr. Nielson, her children and you all! God is most definitely good. Thank you for your updates and for your funny writings....you are very talented!
You brought tears to my eyes today, Chief, Gigs, Steph and you, you are all very special.
Please let Steph and Christian know how prayers are still coming their way.
Take care,
Ladybug
Wishing you the best---you have such strength. How wonderful the love of family members can be...
How wonderful that Stephanie continues to improve! And though I only 'know' her through reading her blog, I'm so happy that she's eventually Utah-bound! Her love for home is ever-so-well documented!
That is an adorable picture. :)
I love that Stephanie is talking to you now. And that she'll be in her beloved Utah soon.
I would love to adopt your ability to write. You are wonderful at it.
Dear c jane and nie -
I've never met you and probably never will - but can I just say that I'm thrilled with this news?!
Forget the economy and the fact that my husband might lose his job. You've given me something to really smile about today - the thought of your family together - at last. That's a reason for rejoicing!!!
Love to you all.
And c jane - I've got Mt. St. Laundry in my house,too!! Better get off this computer and start climbing!
Courtney, That will be WONDERFUL! I hope she comes back to UTAH very soon. Your lives will continue to be forever blessed! You all are such an inspiration. Thank you for sharing your details. They mean so much to us as we follow, hope, and PRAY! Lots of love and prayers sent your way. Courtney D
Fantastic!! I love the picture - aren't children so fun!! Sisterhood is so special - I hope everyone knows that special bond. Thank you for sharing a bit of yours!
YAY CHIEF!!! Sitting up is such a big deal, isn't it?!? Such new found freedom (for Mommy that is). Congrats to the big boy!! So funny that the girls gave him a nickname for his perfect head, it is one of the first things I noticed in that close up picture you posted of him a few days ago--it really is a lovely dome :)
Awesome news about Stephanie's continued recovery, the children's mutual adoration, and a move to Utah sometime soon. Bless you all, as you have blessed so many. Thank you for continuing sharing yourself . As always, we continue to pray for you daily.
Beautiful! I am beyond thrilled to hear that Stephanie is moving on to the next phase in her recovery...rehab! I am so happy to hear that she is finally going home to her home, her husband, her children, her family and her beloved Utah! And Courtney if you ever needed further proof for Steph I am sure there are thousands of us out here in blog land that would love to tell her how much she (and you) have changed and influenced our lives!
Lee anne
Too funny that you call The Chief Coconut Head. My 13 year old daughter is "Coconut Head" too. She has always had a perfectly shaped head that reminds me of a coconut.
Clearly Stephanie has been sleeping, because anyone who has peeked in on your life lately can see that the little joys outweigh the stress. Come on NieNie, you shoulda known that your children were lighting up the world on your behalf :)
-love from another Steph across the country
I was so so so happy to read your post this freezing November morning. The fact that Stephanie is now awake and alert enough to be able to talk of life beyond the one in the hospital is heartening to say the least. My prayers continue to be with your family on this journey ahead...a journey that keeps getting brighter!
Also, you're such a great sister. She's lucky to have you.
Wonderful! Two years ago, my baby sister moved only 2 miles from my home. Between us we have 5 kids roughly the same age. She has been the greatest blessing of my life. We are doing working together to raise our kids. It is the best. She knows my kids so well and they consider her their second mother as do her kids for me. I don't know where I would be with out her. I have two other sisters as well but they don't leave close by and it makes me sad. There is something about the power of a sisters love. The united force they provide. Bless you! And bless Stephanie in her long road ahead!
Your words make me want to cry. You write so beautifully.
Blessings to you all.
Lorraine uk x
What a wonderful new step ahead. To be close to her family is what she needs. There is just something about the mother's family and how we end up living by our parents. I know this is a different situation, but I wouldn't want to be live anywhere else, except near my parents and my only sister. It's the best! I am so happy for all of you to be close again.
Hugs and prayers from CA
awwwwww. that's awesome!!!
I can see her wanting to pay you back, cause I would feel that way if they were my kids, BUT once she sees how much more you got out of it, man, she is going to be totally blown away!!!!!!! that's so awesome!!! God is good! He sure knows how to make good come from a bad situation!! Keep on doing an awesome job with the kiddos! they are obviously thriving and happY!
tara
I want to know, did stephanie see her daughters singing the lullaby song yet?! that was just amazing!
tara
How weary you must be at the end of so many days, but what a blessing Stephanie and Christian are receiving through their families' assistance during this very difficult time.
It sounds like the children are blessing everyone's lives.
I second the 'Hooray!' That Stephanie is improving enough that she will be moving to a rehab facility.
I pray that her body continues to heal rapidly and that the caring/prayers, from so many people throughout the world, help lift her spirits when things become so hard as to be unbearable.
Your little coconut head is such a handsome little man. :)
The "baby fish when they play ocean" part just cracked me up. How adorable!
Great news! Thank you so much for sharing with us. Your family is full of incredible people.
...the perfect ending...
My ds(11) too has a "coconut head" and is affectionately known to his father and me as our "litttle Coconut". My dd(7) and I got our T-shirts yesterday and will wear them here in the foothills of NC. I am blessed with a little sis too. So glad to hear of Nie and Christian's progress.
Praying for you all!
My heart literally fluttered upon reading words spoken by Stephanie...and beautiful words they were...nothing less than one would expect from a member of this incredible family...words of thanksgiving...words of hope in seeing a new future. A family reduced to love. Before you know it, it will be Christmas...I have a new image of the Holy Family...for me, it now lives in flesh and breathes in Provo and Mesa. Enjoy this stage of The Chief sitting where you place him...for soon he will be scurrying away. Sending you all my love for eternity.
I wanted to share two things with you this morning.
1) I was tapped to lead devotions at my Christian school this morning and I felt led to share the life changing lessons that I've learned through Stephanie and your family. What a blessing to hear that she'll be heading to rehab soon!!
2) I dreamed of the Y the other night. I've never travelled farther west than Pittsburgh, PA, but now I want to see the Y and hike it with my family some day.
Your words inspire me and remind me of how sweet life really can be. I think of your family often, even though I don't know any of you. Sisters are kindred spirits who really do belong close together!
Fantastic -- she couldn't have a better support system and you know...the chief's head is perfectly round!! I've actually thought of that before - ha ha!
Amazing - you're all just amazing! Thank you.
My kids are away from me for a month right now while I am on bedrest with baby #3. I know how Nie feels about being indebted because my Sister in law is living a hectic life with 5 kids in her house.
It comforts me to read your words, that there is no repayment needed that you do it out of love and that it blesses you.
I cant imagine how Nie must feel to have her children gone for so long. This is day 6 for me and I still cry 3 or 4 times a day from missing them.
CJane, you are the best sister. I admire your composure, generosity and strength.
Fabulous! Absolutely fabulous!!!
There's a tear in my eye. Bless your heart for all you do, CJane. I love this sisterly love you share. I love Stephanie and you even though I've never met you. I'm happy to hear she will soon be moving to a rehab and sometime in the future moving to Utah to be close to her family and start a new chapter in her life with her husband and children. Best of luck to all of you. And believe. Better days are yet to come!
the chief is a regular little brother! you all really have such a special family and wonderful bond! It reminds me of yours, mine, and OURS!
I'm thrilled Nie will be back to a place that strengthens her so much - it was good to hear that she said "deal!" I bet it was comforting for you too!
We love you all!
This brought me to tears. You are amazing! You and Steph are so lucky to have each other. What an amazing blessing. Can't wait to see what the future holds for all of you.
BTW, this is my first post. I have read every day for months but today's post really moved me...
awesome. :) thank you so much for the update, i love hearing that she's progressing so well, prayers are continously being answered. that will be so wonderful for them to move back to utah. i remember so many of Nie's posts in which she speaks of how she misses the mountains and the snow and most of all the FAMILY.
love that little coconut head too!
Another beautiful post that has me in tears. We got our "NIE" shirts yesterday, my daughter and I. She is 5 and I am 'older than 5'...we sat at dinner with our boys, wearing our cute shirts, and talking about Stephanie, you, your families and your story. You are touching so many lives and we are all with you in spirit, far and wide.
I sent your blog and Stephanie's story to a great friend of mine who has 5 chilcren. She makes bread now for her children after school and told me it's because of Stephanie. You are all touching our lives and "feeding" us all the way in PA!
Amazing! That is so wonderful she will be coming here to this amazing Utah Valley. The mountains will give her strength. Many times I look at that Y on the hill and I know how much it means to Stephanie. I think of her often throughout each day.
You lucky girl!!! Having your sisters in the same area to raise each others children is a dream come true! That would be awesome....you deserve it.
Court ~ what a precious picture of The Chief and Ollie. I can just picture The Chief bellowing at Ollie....how sweet.
Once again, your words are beautiful.
Yea for Steph.....I can't wait until her and C can go home to Utah.....as I'm sure you and all of your family are ready to have her (them) home again too.
My thoughts and contined prayers are with all of your family.
Lorena
thank you for sharing your story. it's amazing to think how one woman's struggle is strengthening so many. my event fundraiser is tonight for stephanie and christian in sandy, utah. wish me luck!!!
You guys are simply amazing, Courtney! You and your family for all that you've done for your sister, brother in law and the children. And Nie too for her strength, her beauty, her love of the simple things in life...the things that can't be bought. You guys ALL share those strengths. But what is amazing to me is Nie wanting to find a way to pay you back! This woman literally has battled for her life and continues to fight for healing and home and all she holds dear. And yet one of the things most pressing on her mind is gratitude. WOW!! Nie, I am humbled by your strength... I will remember that today when the little things get to me. Instead I will not complain. I will just give it to God and say THANK YOU for the good things in my life. I love you guys! Hugs and prayers, Lori
Sounds like the best kind of deal!
Amazing how well she is doing. I am so happy for her to be returning to Utah, but AZ will definitely miss that family! Thank you, thank you for continuing to keep your devoted fans in the loop!
I know you don't need me to tell you how blessed you are. But I will any way YOU ARE SO BLESSED.
Well that is just great news! I am happy that she is doing well, and will be home with you all in time. It will certainly be a special Christmas season : )
it does my heart good to hear of conversations being had with nie.
That sounds like a fabulous idea - how wonderful for you all to be together again!
Love and prayers,
Alexandra
I am so happy and excited for Stephanie to get to go home. We will miss her terribly. We already do and have been for 3 months. Her stay at the Lazona estates was much too short, but her impact on everyone has been worth more than a lifetime. I hope that one day we can have a good visit and catch up.
Your Chief is so sweet. Thanks for sharing his coconut head with the world.
And yay for Steph moving back to her family!! What a blessing that will be.
i just love pictures of the backs of babies' heads... so sweet!
and how wonderful if your families will live so close...
Can you imagine how spoiled the Chief would be without them, completely rotten!
I love this post! We have been away from Utah for 5 years now and currently live in Phoenix. We are returning to the mountains, seasons, and family in December. I am thrilled that Stephanie gets to come home too.
Your family has filled our home with a special spirit. I have spent every night sewing away on quilts for the kids and with each square I imagine them snuggled in loves from all of us. We love you, your coconut head baby and his adopted siblings! Pictures of the quilts will be posted soon...
Home. I'm so excited for her for you and for ALL of your kids!
my favorite thing about stephanie was that we shared the same feelings about the wasatch. i love those mountains. they were everything to me when i lived in utah, and now that i'm far away and need to go to a happy place, my mind always rests on the top on those wonderful, rocky mountains. they are beautiful in every season and i would move back just for them.
do you think your parents ever had any idea that their children would change the world, that so many people would grow closer together, their faith would become stronger and their love would be forever deeper? (although I'd be willing to bet they could have lived without the plane crash part of the story)
The world has changed and it has gotten so much better because of all of you and your ability to share your lives through the written word. I thank God, all the time, that you all were brought into my life, even though chances are I will never meet any of you!
If only the rest of the world could take 1/10th of your love, faith, hope and compassion, it might get better still....
Continued thoughts and prayers to everyone in your family. Thank your parents for me, for raising such amazing children!
Thinking of Steph being near her beloved mountains with family surounding her makes me so happy. I know that she will be able to heal here in Utah in ways she wouldn't be able to anywhere else. Happy, happy news!
Thanks a million times.. all we seem to say, over and over is...thanks and God Bless you...but that is what we have in our hearts for all of you! Courtney you "know" how true it is when you said ...the world changed while Stephanie slept, we all saw that first hand right here on this loving blog, with a huge miracle of hearts united and the gift of life for Stephanie and Christian! What a privilege it was to witness...I am so, so happy to to read your blog entires, for Stephanie is a blessing to us, in a way none of us could have imagined. Who would have guessed that she would change our own little lives like she has. I am happy to see that she will be with her family in Utah. Her life will beat to a different drum, but the music will be just as grand. CONGRATULATIONS to all of you for this wonderful milestone! God Bless...~Donna
words we all have anxiously awaited hearing. tears flowing freely.
this posts makes me long for the days when my house was filled with gut laughter of little chillins. thank goodness for grandchildren.
no place like home. Dorothy knew it. (Dorothy was my wonderful mother in law, the mother of 12 beautiful children, and a legacy, of love.)
Tell your Mom to or blog because I want my girls to love each other as much as you and your siblings.
(mommy of 7)
I have read this blog for months.... and today has moved me to comment. Each day I check in from work and end up in tears at my desk. I admire you, you are doing such a great job! May you feel the blessings and love from heaven each day... may your sister continue her progress!
Love, Jeni
I can't tell you how thrilled I am to hear about how well Stephanie is doing. You are both blessed to have these children and each other. Thank you for continuing to update us on her progress.
thrilled and touched (my eyes overflowed) to hear about nie's phonecall home and how much the kiddies love one another. she must miss them so much and vice versa.
thanks for warming my heart today. i was feeling down and blue here in NJ with no relatives to celebrate thanksgiving with...you've shown me that my husband and babies are enough.
your blog is the first I read every day. because it never ceases to lift my spirits. so happy to see things going so well for all of you. especially the children.
I love coconuts and sisters and hills.
Can I come be your neighbor too? I made Mary's whole wheat pumpkin muffins from scratch with my nursery kids on Sunday....they were yummy. And I have almost mastered whole wheat pizzas...even tried avocado on them...can you say YUM! I would totally take a day to cook for my "neighbors" and my door would always be open to children who would want to run in and out of it! I know you would like me...I promise....please please please?!!!
In all seriousness....your family and both yours and Stephanie's writings have changed me as a person. One way is....I feed my family better and delight in doing so. I am more nuturing to both my hubs and children and truly cherish the little things.
Thanks for openly sharing and for giving and for inspiring...even though you would probably say..."I'm just being me....no big deal." You are a big deal....you are a beautiful and loving daughter of our Heavenly Father and you {along with your beautiful sister...actually sisters} helped me to become a better daughter of God also.
What wonderful news. I love the pictures you painted with your words. and of course the picture of the boys. classic.
I loved your post today and am thrilled for nie's recovery. However, I would like to request that you post in a bigger font. It would make it easier to read through the tears in my eyes. Thanks!
Sounds like one of the best deals ever struck! I'm so happy.
still praying...
C-
bless you, the kids, chup, the nielsons and everyone else supporting your daily adventures.
its too cute to see your little coconut head sitting up...mine, not yet. she just rolls both directions way too early.
check out my laundry day....http://randomsarahp.blogspot.com/2008/11/distractions.html
love you!
sarah
This seems like a perfect deal. :)
I am so happy to hear Stephanie is talking... and moving to rehab soon. This is truly a miracle (one that we have all been praying for). I continue to pray for the day she is reunited with her beautiful family, and begins a new chapter with them.
Stephanie is such an inspiration, and her blog helped me to look at the positive!
Thank you for letting us know how she is doing!
It's the deal of a lifetime.
it's amazing to hear of her having a conversation with you. it's such a complete change from the way i've thought of her, in some far off dream land, for so long.
coconut head is awesome. i love those bald little baby heads. that's how my kiddos were too.
Courtney,
I have been following Stephanie & Christian’s story sense it aired on the Today Show, I have never left you a comment even though I visit your site first thing every morning, but after reading today I couldn’t wait any longer to tell you how inspiring you are. You have opened up your life, home, and heart to the world and in doing that you have changed people’s lives. Not only your families but SO many more! You have inspired me to be a better mom, a better wife, and a better Christian. I know our faiths may be different but I know the same Holy Spirit is working miracles in all of our lives everyday. Having Faith is such an important part of our lives but there are times when you just want to give up, to quote a dear friend of mine who is going through a family crisis of her own “faith is believing without seeing”, Courtney, you have allowed us to see what we believe in and for that I will be forever grateful to you.
Thank you & God Bless,
Danielle
Sisters...the whole reason I wasn't satisfied after my husband thought one boy and one girl was perfect. He didn't understand that a girl NEEDS to have at least one sister...hopefully half as great as you and yours.
What a great post!
I always love reading your posts and thoughts of inspiration. They make my day, and I love hearing that Stephanie is doing so well. I hope she DOES get to move closer to her family as she heals. :) What a blessing that will be--for everyone!
Being a mother is such a huge part of her life and who she is, I know this may be a little forward, but do the doctors say if she will be able to continue having the large family she always wanted?
Man, what a talent has been hidden in the mountains of Utah.
Beautiful! Sounds like a plan made by God, being carried out by His children! Can't go wrong there! =)
(I'm a regular visitor here, but I had to change my blog name. -beachy) =)
Oh the busy little coconut head in the closet is priceless - I'm tickled I get to watch my 11 month old niece tomorrow. I know how special it is to have family nearby, the cousins are the best of friends forever. Thank you for helping to change the world.
You are both amazing women! Thank you so much for sharing and giving strength to all of us who are held captivated by YOUR strength and abilities. I look at life through new eyes because of you and your sweet (healing) sister. I appreciate so much your gentle wisdom. hugs. prayers.
lovely post and never having had a sister of my own, I love to hear of your tender moments together. 'help raise each other's kids' sounds like a heavenly way to
accomplish such an important calling such as motherhood.
Yay! I love you guys! You make me want to hug my sister!
That is excellent news!! :)
Yay! What wonderful news to a wonderful family! Continued blessings to your bunch!
Mazel Tov to Stephanie on getting to leave the hospital and to you on knowing she will be close by. Please add me to the list of readers of both yours and Stephanie's blog whose life has been changed by both of your words, spirit and faith. I am a better person for having "met" you both.
Thanks for sharing and changing my life for the better. Signed, someone who thinks the world of you all.
A couple nights ago my older sister went to dinner with a group of old highschool friends.... Christians sister was one of them. She told my sister that Stephanies healing is completely shocking the doctors. I have told my husband all along that there is just something about Stephanie....she seems so positive and strong willed...everything she blogs about is stuff she really cares about and truley beleives in, a close family, a strong marraige..date nights, healthy eating habits,traditions, her religion,being positive and grateful always, and being such a good friend to people around the world! I can see all of this about her just by reading her blog! She has been a great example to me and people all around the world! I can't wait for her to continue where she left off. Especially with her husband and children! It gives me the chills!
How pathetic am I? I want to move into the neighborhood too. Is there are third house for sale? I swear I will be good, helpful and help out with babies where needed.
From tragedy greatness can emerge. I have experienced this first-hand and can attest to it's power and humbling nature. Prayers are with you and your family daily - keep faith and strength with you always.
Oh I bet the Chief would LOVE that! I am SO thankful for Nie's recovery, what a beautiful blessing
YAY! Tears. Always thinking and praying for you...for Steph...for everyone.
wonderful wonderful wonderful news.
i hardly think anyone in the bunch would want to part.
this will be good. this will be really good.
I love reading about your family and your journey. I most importantly love that you can see the blessings, it proves what very special people you are. I just finished reading "The Shack" and there is a line that says "When all you see is your pain perhaps then you lose sight of me" I can tell that you and your family have not lost sight of God!
With many Blessings,
Sara
although this has been said many times in many different ways, I can't say thank you enough for your updates and your words. Your family is such an inspiration to me, seriously.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart. My prayers are with you all.
goosebumps.
Such wonderful news that Stephanie is moving along with her recovery!
What a great idea to live close to your sister...
I really love your perspective on how much this whole experience has enriched you, rather than drained you (not that it isn't tiring, I'm SURE). I've often wondered how Stephanie will deal with the feeling of being so beholden to people. The many posts you've written will probably comfort her heart, seeing how God has used this time to bless all of you.
He's blessing us, too, those of us who pray daily for two sisters and some children whom we've never met!
"While You Were Sleeping"... too bad there's already a movie titled that.
Hurray for Steph. I am so happy.
I'm encouraged that she will be moved to rehab soon. Great news!
And yes, The Chief has a perfect head. I like coconut head better than "basketball head"...a term my oldest got.
There, you did it again. You made me all teary. Again.
You are all truly amazing. My prayers will continue to be with you all.
thank you for showing us how to give, care, and love.
You are going to need each other. I am so glad it is possible. Still praying for you all!
Her progress sounds amazingly fast!!! Coming home to Utah is a dream come true for her. She often wrote about it. How is Christian doing?
wow... answered prayer, yet again! it's so powerful to hear about steph's recovery. the thought of you all being so close geographically is splendid! i know it'll be just the recovery she needs. it's so true about the chief. he has absolutely no idea that he's an only child. how wonderful for him to have this time with his cousins. i'm sure there are crazy, hairy days and other lazy, perfectly cozy days. just praying that everyone is taking it all in. and praying for the day that steph gets to welcome her children home with her. thanks for writing another fantastic post. i'll keep praying!
the little guy just loves his cousins and loves to be surrounded by everyone. break it to him gently. it will be hard.
Thank you for the updates, you are wonderful sister. Lucky you guys to live close to each other--I hope you get to forever.
How can a post so filled with happy occasions make a total stranger like me CRY by reading it? You truly have a gift. So many gifts. I want to move to Utah and be your neighbor, too.
I haven't commented before, I've never really known what to say. I've followed this story since shortly after it happened.
I am overwhelmed at your (collective your) strength, you seem such a loving and closeknit family and I really admire you all.
Stephanie and Christian and their beautiful children are in my thoughts and prayers often. x
I meant to say my heart is full for you today.....sorry about the previous typo....I could not see through my happy tears!
I can't believe it. I know 3 months seems like nothing & eternity to you all. But so far away in Seattle, it seemed this time wouldn't come. You are in our prayers daily and we'll be praying for wisdom and strength for Christian and Nie.
Blessings to your kid stew.
alecia in seattle
i don't even know you personally, but i'm so excited at the prospect of you and steph living close to one another. i know it will help in her healing. it is also wonderful to know she is speaking now and close to rehab. the prayers and good thoughts will keep comin'.
You are such an inspiration to my soul, my being. I love the words you posess as you show us the undeniable love that engulfs your humble abode. You are so enlighting to so many and I have to thank you from the bottom of my heart (as I sit here typing with the ever dreadful flu) that you and your sister have given me a strenght that I never knew one could posess. Thank you for being you. with much love
loves and hugs
Tifani Cluff
safford az
The Chief is getting so big and he is soooo cute. I think it is wonderful to have a mix of kids. What fun memories they are making! What a wonderful blessing it will be to have her be able to be close as she continues to heal. I will stop being lazy and make everyone a card. I'm not one of the awesome blogging people you talk about. I'm just one who is surviving the stress of my life but who thinks of all of you and prays for you all every day.
Pretty good deal! :)
xoxo
Oh...such great news! That Stephanie is healing well and on her way to recovering. Such joy! At the same time, my heart is breaking for Christians mother and father and siblings and the huge hole they will have in not having Christian, Stephanie and the children nearby. My most tender prayers will be said for their comfort. I am sure they know it is best but I hope they will be blessed with peace and joy, too.
Looking ahead, it will be an amazing way for Nie Nie to breathe in the mountain air, surrounded by family close by, and her and Christian to raise their children and all of you together offering help, strength and support, one to another. Amazing. Gloriously amazing.
Prayers of gratitude; continued strength, in all areas; and a future full of hope and joy, shall continue.
Chief is a handsome, sitting tall, "Coconut Head!" Enjoy.
So many prayers have been answered. What wonderful news to hear how Stephanie is progressing. What a blessing it will be for all of you to have she and Christian and the children all living back there in Utah.
Thank for sharing your story and for your wonderful examples of love.
We continue to prayer for all of you here in Florida.
I'm a huge nie-nie fan....I wish there were more archives to read. Now i'm a huge fan of yours too. You have a beautiful way with words. I feel like I know you both. I pray for you. And Stephanie. And the children. Thank you for sharing with us.
Humbling words sister!! Im sure there is relief experienced in Stephanies Heart when she hears of the love that her family has for her.
Blessings have shown erruption across the world because of such tragedy.
Thank you for sharing personal day to day experiences. We all think that each of you are "our" sisters! Each of you!
Hugs-
Such good news!!!
I have a coconut head of my own although his cousins are all scattered across the US. I wish we could be close together the way you guys are.
I'm praying the very best for Stephanie as she enters rehab. Your blogs (yours and hers) have become very dear to me and I think of all of you often.
xo
Flicka
www.vacantuterus.typepad.com/vacantuterus (I only type it out because my blogger ID won't lead you there and I don't want you to think I'm some random spammer.)
The prayers continue until the day that all of you are united in health and spirit in Utah, or wherever you are together.
For wherever you all are together, that's a home in the truest sense of the word.
Continued best wishes for Stephanie, you, and all those nearest and dearest to you.
you're writing is simply beautiful. You have gained yet another frequent visitor to c jane enjoy it. Wishing you and yours all the best.
Long time lurker, first time commenter...but I just wanted to say, how beautiful that "deal" is. You're all in my prayers!
Reminds me of that Michael Buble song "Home".
Glad Stephanie will get to be there...with you.
Just one of the thousands following your amazing, motivating, inspiring story! So glad Steph is progressing! Love your family and pray for you daily!
again...
you have all my support, prayers, respect and now my envy.
How I love my sisters and long to have them near me.
Court-you are an amazing real-life virtual friend to me. Someday I will meet you in the store and throw my arms around you and tell you HELLO!
and then you'll think I am nuts when really I just wuv you, Nie, that cute little melon head of yours...and have for years.
That is amazing news. Both of you, well all of you involved bring so much strength to all of us. It does make me sad... a little jealous even, that I don't have sisters to live next to. I will continue to add my prayers to the mix for a full speedy recovery, and for you in taking care of...everyone.
He does have a beautiful head-with no hair to mess up the asthetics! Gotta love the bald babies...each of mine is balder than the last.
Hi! I've been following your blog for a long while now and wanted to just add confirmation that Nie and her beautfiul family has changed my life forever and we've never even met. In fact today I was writting out my schedule in the morning and I have a place for the dailiy thought/quote/inspiration and ALL that could come to my mind was you all and I wrote "Nie-Nie" with a smile. A couple people asked me who and what is Nie-Nie? It made me stop and think...and then my reply..A friend...one who inspires me to live my best life and face my challenges with grace and love and faith.
Hugs,
Jana
Beautiful.
Start to finish.
The best deal is the one you have dealt everyday of your life lovingly..
Living pure family Grace.
"She turned her head and said ...deal"
Thank God for the miracle of life... she turned her head, she spoke on the phone.. Like you said "The flames did not take her grace"
Thank you for sharing your journey with us.
AWWW! With every new update on Stephanie my heart just soars. And, you, Jane, continue to amaze me with your strength, hope, and love. I wish we were friends.
Nancy
Oh how I hope you get to be close! I have one sister, and she and her hubby might be joining us in NYC far away from the mountain home we grew up in. I can't tell you how excited that makes me, so I can only imagine how it must make you feel, especially with all these kids that have become even more "yours" over the past little while. Hooray, hooray!
Could there be a sweeter deal???
The back of the Chief's head is the most adorable thing on the planet.
If someone did a pageant where babies just sat in a row facing away from the judges, all the other contestants would drop out the minute the Chief arrived. Why bother even trying to compete?
So many lives have been touched and have changed while Steph "was sleeping" including my own.
I recently decided to quit my job to be able to focus on our two little boys. The choice was not easy, but we knew it would be the best for our family with the longest lasting results. With phone in hand to call my boss, I hesitated, questioning my choice.
The first thing that came to my mind was Nie and the joy she has portrayed through her love of motherhood. Not just BEING a mother, but living, breathing, loving motherhood. I knew right then and there that THAT is what I truly want and the decision was no longer hard for me to make.
Thanks to Nie for reminding me where I am needed most, at a time when I needed it most.
Our lives will never be the same.
Love to you all...in Utah!:)
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