Wednesday, January 7, 2009

The Ever Evolving


Nie and Me, July 2007

In the beginning there was my blog.

It was a blog about Not Much at All. Then one day I got tired of writing about Not Much at All and decided to write about Infertility.

But in how many ways can you express how much you don't like being Infertile?

So I decided to write about the good of Infertility.

The late night dance clubs.

The spontaneous trips to Europe.

The ample quiet introspective moments.

Then there was the day when my husband got out his camera and shot a glamorous picture of a French tart we had just purchased at our local bakery.

And that delicious little picture changed me again, so that I wanted to write more . . . deliciously.

Which I did, until at last I was no longer Infertile.

But with child.

So I wrote about Gestation.

The pukes.

The butterfly movements.

The adoration of an internal alien I'd never met.

And behold! A long the way I gained a readership who I loved (though I was always turning on and off my comments, it wasn't them, it was me). I felt at ease to be myself.

Quirky.

Cheeky.

Just a titch irreverent.

And my blog was my happy place all the while.

It had been a lovely way to spend the years.

So satisfied, I was, that I made my intention to retire into motherhood without a blog in the diaper bag.

(So to speak.)

But because of a pressing heartache,

and a public that I came to love

(on so many levels)

I could not.

So I continued on, supposing to write about a new founded adventure.

My calling as tribeswoman to The Chief?

But then my sister (and fellow blogger) was in a terrible accident.

And because she is our own, we picked up the pieces of her life and carried on.

Each to their task.

Page posted at the hospital.

Lucy with the baby.

And me, I inherited her children.

And blog.

Which came with her beloved readers, with whom I vowed to do my best to continue her story.

A job I took almost as seriously

as taking her children

although

not as seriously as taking her children.

But we noticed with our tasks came a sense of hope. Of optimism and joy.

(despite it all).

Because after all, the gospel is true!

And the love for our sister will be eternal and we felt it.

All of us.

Every one.

And we desired to share our feelings with whomever might listen.

So my blog evolved (again) with different purposes.

To update.

To encourage.

To raise money and awareness.

But mostly, to give my little sister an account of her life while she slept.

When the day came that we heard her doctor say,

"She is out of the woods!"

we cried.

And started to prepare her world

for her return.

And slowly

slowly

slowly

she awoke.

So slowly in fact, that I hardly noticed how heavy it had been.

The whole process of seeing someone die and live again.

In due time I couldn't help but notice

that the more I heard her voice

the less of her voice I needed to be.

Which is a tribute to the natural process

and the fact that sisters are connected in ways that cannot be described

on a blog

or elsewhere.

But it wasn't until this very evening,

I saw my sister completely herself

with light in her eyes.

So I asked her,

if she were ready to take back her blog.

Her loved hobby.

Her public.

(Which had grown immensely since sleeping.)

She agreed

to continue her own story

(in some form or another)

by January 16th

(of this year).

Then as sisters we had an incredible laugh

at all the funny parts

and not-so-funny parts

of the last episodic months of our lives.

And shook hands

(though she said, do it really softly please.)

Then asked me to scratch her back

because it itches.

And with two of her children, I loaded up the car and came home.

Home to see that my blog

looked like me again

(with my tongue stuck permanently in my cheek . . . and wings).

Which can only mean that I am about to enter into yet another phase of writing.

Of what substance I cannot say,

only that

as I kissed my baby good night

I felt like he had his mother back

and with that

I had my sister back.

And in the near future

her children

will have their mother back.

Which,

in the end

is all that matters.

So let this be written.

(Because it has already been done.)

Amen.

563 Pieces of Opinion:

«Oldest   ‹Older   1 – 200 of 563   Newer›   Newest»
Helen said...

Oh C Jane. What has been created, what is to come - l am excited.

The Bears said...

I can't wait! Double the reading, double the fun!

McCrazys said...

Lovely.

Karo said...

Thank God for sisters...they really are angels. :)

Jenna said...

I was laughing so hard when I saw your new header. And then I was crying at your beautifully written words. You are truly such an angel to your sister and her family.

I am so excited to see what your new blog will entail.

Saskia said...

Beautifully written and so exciting to see that Nie Nie is ready to come back to her blog!

Saskia x

lovinglife said...

You are a great writer. So glad Steph will get her blog back and you will get to just be you. I have come to love your humor and style. Please continue. You are a breath of fresh air and I just love reading you enjoy it.

nevadanista said...

And it came to pass...not to stay

Melanee said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Melanee said...

You should definitely frame that post for posterity. As we grow, we learn and as we learn, we grow. It's the circle of life and you are back to your beginning. Congrats! I will continue to be a reader and hope for many more tears, laughter and moving moments. We wish you and your family (yes all of it) the best!

katie said...

glad to have you back. Loved you in all your different progressive times.

Jodi said...

The 16th is my birthday, what a lovely treat that will be.

daddylikeyblog said...

Crying right now. I'm so happy for this whole beautiful family, and so excited to have you and Nie back! :)

MeganL said...

This is my first time posting. this entry made me tear up. Thank you, Courtney.

AzĂșcar said...

Me, you, and Yul.

Meg said...

I found your blog after your sisters accident, but I hope it's okay that I stay!!! Honestly, I love your titch of irreverentness. Thanks for being so willing to share your thoughts and experiences with us. Your header is great!

Christy said...

LOOOOOOOOVE IT!!!!!!!!!

Give it to us straight, we can take your writing anyway you put it!!

That's me trying to be funny. My timing is always off. At least it sounds funny in my head when I say it.

Laura said...

These blogs are amazing things, aren't they?The way they connect us. To never have me you or Nie, and that I pray for you both daily...that you are my inspiration...

You know, I never read Nie until the accident. And I nearly lost my breath when I read that she would be returning...and you, evolving...

I am so looking forward to it...and thank you

you have been a wonderful voice
you are a wonderful sister
mother
friend
and blogger

thank you

Laura said...

Wow.

Thank you for the past months of inspiration.

Thank you in advance for what is to come.

Kelly King Anderson said...

I love you, CJane, what a beautiful gift you've been to your sister, and yes, it's for "fun" to have your image with the wings but we all agree you deserve them for REAL. Hope our paths will cross again in Provo, I'm the one who brought the girls the musical princess skirts, etc. Take care and enjoy the journey of the next mission. xoxo

Sue said...

The more you hear your sister's voice, the more you don't have to be her voice. I love that. It's like you were holding her place for her, and now you get to move back into your own.

This must feel so wonderful. And I will continue to be a faithful reader of BOTH blogs.

Anouk said...

Wow! Your words took my breath away.
"the more I heard her voice, the less of her voice I needed to be"

Can't wait to read about you, you, you!

Diane in WA said...

Courtney, so glad to see you now have a halo AND wings! I love your humor and irreverant soul, you kindred spirit. Life is serious enough without us making it unbearably so.

Continued blessings to you and your family and we look forward to Nie reclaiming any small part of her life, which I pray to be a step toward healing her inner self as well as her outer.

Lace said...

I have been waiting for this post!!! I could feel it coming! I can't wait :)

Anonymous said...

God Lives. He hears & answers prayers. Your family's story is a testament to that. We are so happy for you all. But mostly we are happy that Stephanie & Christian are alive. They are so blessed to have such amazing families to carry them through all this. Congratulations & may the Lord's choicest blessings be with you always.

Much Love

Cailean said...

All I want to say is thank you SO much for sacrificing your time energy and efforts to updating your blog and Nie's blog. It has meant so much to be connected to the reason I fell in love with blogs in the first place!

Anonymous said...

LOVE the angel wings. I will read BOTH blogs with joy!

Love,

Jane from Australia

Sarah Sawyer said...

You and your sister are a blessing to us all! Such devotion and love is mesmerizing!Praying for you all!

Anuska said...

So excited to hear that Nie Nie will be ready to come back and joing her blog again soon.

Even more excited to read what is up next for you.

Even, even more excited to have two beautifully written blogs by two beautiful sisters to read.

Jean said...

That is such exciting news! I will count the days to see her first post. On another note, I look forward to your posts each day and your thoughts. Thank you for all your hard work. You do make a difference to so many of us out here in cyberland.

Paisley Girl said...

One day a while back I was just surfing blogs of interest when I saw a button on one that said they read Nie. I clicked on it and was taken to your sister's blog where I became heartbroken over what happened to her, her husband, the pilot, and of course all the family involved. I then found my way to your blog through there and was so touched at how you were keeping your sister's blog alive and keeping everyone updated on her. I would hope and pray each time I read either her or her husband was going through something, and I am just overjoyed to read that she is well enough to take over her blog again. When I read it in her blog I wanted to cry tears of joy to know she was so well to do that. I look forward to keeping up with both of your blogs and your lives. You both are very interesting women and reading your blogs puts in me a happiness and hope I often forget does exist. Can't wait to see what you will write about next.

Jennie said...

LOVE the new layout. You ARE an angel, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise!

Reluctant Nomad said...

I'm crying. So so lovely. And what a great tribute to the power of words. And sisters. And friends (IRL or not).

Kitschen Pink said...

Well Hooray to all of that! I can't wait! I never read either of you B.C. (before crash) and I am SO excited to get to know your individual voices. Like The Bears said (above - in the comments - I don't socialise with talking bears) 'double the fun'! t.xx (still finding that angel slightly unnerving - but I'm chilled about it - no really - I am) t.xx

Yolanda Pasillas said...

Your writing is lovely. I'm so glad to have found these two wonderful blogs, they have brought so much insight into my life. I'm excited to see what both of you have in store for 2009!

youwho! said...

"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God..."

Anonymous said...

I have lurked & loved to read both blogs these past months...and many others too.

I so admire the strength & faith you have all shown us thru this time.
the 16th will a momentous day for Nie and her extended family both home & all over the world.


olive
Ireland

Janet said...

What a beautifully written blog! It brought tears to my eyes and goose bumps to my body! I so look forward to "meeting" your beautiful sister and continue to follow your story!
Sending extra special hugs today from South Africa!
x

angie said...

I cry and laugh so often at your blog entries. You have a way with words, did you know? :)

Amelia said...

1. Love the header picture. Gorgeous.
2. I've come to nie and you only recently and its changed how I feel about family, husband and red lipstick.
Bless you and your family...
Thank you...

Amelia from Scotland.

E and T said...

Thank you for making a difference.
I have been lurking on your blog and Nie's since the accident and it is high time I thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing your journey.

I can hardly wait till January 16, the return of Nie to her blog.

Thank you for making the world a cozier, happier place.

Elise

dietauschlade said...

tellement content pour toi, pour elle, pour vos familles (et pour nous - vos lecteurs fidĂšles)!!!

:o)

adoptedcricket said...

I am so glad that Nie is coming back...God bless her and you for taking such loving care of her words in her physical absence. I know that she was there in spirit though in every word that was typed.

Can't wait to see how your blog turns out!! :)

Senja said...

How awesome!
I am so excited!! :) And your new outfit is fantastic!! But how could it not be - starting 'spicing up' with your blog is a great idea! :)

Much love from Sweden!

AntonucciFamily said...

I am so happy for you and your family! I really enjoy your writing and am looking forward to much more!

tammy said...

I am sooo excited for all of us! For Nie to re-invent her blog, for you to start another phase of yours, and for all of us lucky enough to have you both in our lives - those who actually know you and those who wish we did. Double the inspiration and fun!

Meant to comment yesterday but was so busy - love the new header! I had told my kids about the comment post and so they got such a laugh. Thanks, we needed that so very much.

Lilith said...

Such good news ! I'm looking forward to read something Nie wrote.
And pssst : I don't think your new banner will help you to wind down those readers who think you are narcisstic, lol ! (but it made me laug so thanks, I like it !) ;o)

Kat said...

Oh it has been such an incrediable treat to ahve found your blog, TBH I find the way you view what has happened the interesting part about your blog, I love your insight, your humour and your incrediable spirit..
I am looking fowad to redaing you both again..what wonderful news that Nie will be back..

♥Lucky♥Holly♥ said...

promise to read whatever you write !
love you for like forever ;-)

Monica said...

As and outside observer, I thank you for all you have done. You've earned your wings, chickie! My life has been enriched so much since the day I sat down and watched your interview from the Today show on msnbc.com.

Karen in Texas said...

Awwww.....wonderful.....now you and Stephanie will brighten my days.

Love ya CJane!!

Jenn said...

I look forward to the new blog you. Welcome 2009!

LuvMommyhood said...

WOW!! So happy, so happy, so happy. A new beginning for us all. I will continue to read, laugh, smile, cry and be inspired by you both. Stephanie - I am grateful that you are coming back to your blog - but I knew (hoped and prayed) all along that you would be back.

I am LoW said...

Beautiful post, as always.

karan said...

what i dilemma! Which blog to read first!maybe i can take it in turns,maybe i can pick a name out of a hat,maybe i can paper scissor rock,maybe i can ip dip doo,maybe i can eeny meemy miny mo.Maybe WHO knows? Do you know?
I can't wait till the 16th or because i live in england will it be the 17th? See what you have done now Courtney!!!!!!!!!!!!!


all my love to you both
karan

hollyberry2 said...

Oh, I'm so happy you are both back.

Thank you, Lord!

ksarra said...

And AMEN. Praise God for answered prayers, and for the love of family!

Lisha said...

What joy you and Nie bring to my life.....I'll be tuning in, changes or no changes. Happy Days!!

rebekah said...

can you imagine what a blog would capture if you kept it for 10 years? 15? 50? crazy.

Anonymous said...

Congratulations to the both of you. It will be exciting for you to have your blog back and it will be exciting to read Nie's thoughts when she gets back to blogging herself. I think for many of us it will truly feel like she has "made it out of the woods" - to read her words again- to be inspired by her mothering once again.

Thanks for keeping us posted these last few months and for sharing pictures of your adorable nieces and nephews. And of course your most adorable Chief. Love the blog header. I too am self-centered. I BLOG!

Christie K said...

Just beautiful!!

bettyg said...

I love you! Is it wrong that I wrote that??? But you rock - you are inspirational, funny, and all good things! So glad to hear Steph will be back and that you will continue with your story!!!

Becca said...

I am so happy Stephanie will take her blog back! I can't wait.

Thank you, CJane, for being her voice these past months.

shelleycaskey said...

the moment we have all been waiting and praying for! for stephanie to be ABLE to take her blog back. and only a sister who has done what you have done can understand what that truly means. :)

aurora said...

What wonderful news! I can't wait to hear her blog in her voice and your blog as your own. {as I am new to both since September}

flori said...

Can't wait to see what lies ahead for both of you. Reminds me of Elder Wirthlin, "Come what may and love it". Also, after reading a post about people who "bash" you in their comments, I just wanted to say that I love your wings and loved the post where you describe yourself as an angel. Tongue in cheek, people! Seriously.

Sharon said...

Wonderfully and beautifully said.

From the Kitchen said...

Oh Joy! But, C Jane, now we cannot do without you! Carry on!

Anonymous said...

I have been reading both blogs for a while now. In a little (but significant way) your updates brighten up my days. Today is no exception.

Thank you.

Sarah
(Newcastle Upon Tyne, England)

Penelope said...

Please keep writing. It's your style that keeps me coming back. Sure, I'm sure I'll love Nie's too, but I need my regular cjane doses!

MaevisDavis said...

Oh, this is the best news ever. Nie is the inspiration behind my blogging adventure. . .and now I am not only blogging, but praying for a 13-year-old burn victim from South Carolina. You ALL are a huge inspiration to many.

heather in ohio said...

Beautiful blog. Beautiful story. Beautiful writing. Beautiful you! Here's to many more happy readings! Thank you!

Anonymous said...

I'm so happy and excited to hear that nie is returning to her blog!!!!!!!!!! I started reading hers (and yours) after the plane crash through another blog that I've been following (herrintwins.com) when they asked us the readers to pray for nie and mr nelson. Maybe as part of the celebration, you can ask people to send in where they found out about nie's blog since the readership grew after the accident.

Anonymous said...

You earned those wings - and the halo! Thanks for sharing!!

Cassandra said...

Amen!
Perfect, C Jane!
And exciting!
And perfectly worded about sisters, I have three as well:)

Lillian said...

Reading your post is a great way to start my day. I'll have to start getting up alittle bit earlier now that I'll need to read 2 blogs before work. You've totally earned those wings.

Anonymous said...

welcome back NieNie thankyou Courtney. x

Gedde Adventures said...

I have been reading your blog since Nie's accident, and I SO look forward to her return to blogdom, but I am excited to hear about how things are for you! I can't believe your selflessness in this whole situation and find your relationship with your sister and her family very beautiful...
Thanks for the update... and God bless you!

Heather said...

Love the new header...and I'm so happy that Nie will be back to blogging, and that you will continue on your own way, as well. I love your blog so much...the first thing I check each morning.

Amber said...

That's great news....I found this blog recently and your story touched me. How incredible that you can take on your sisters children and that she can fully trust you with them...you are a great mom and surrogate mom, and your writing is profound. Your at the top of my list. Congrats to Nie Nie, that she has made it this far.

Anne in SC said...

Love the new header! There is nothing like a bond between sisters. I have 5 sisters and they are all my best friends. I too discovered your blog from another blog when the accident occured. I became an instant reader and will continue to do so. Your Faith has inspired me to continue pushing forward in my own Faith and at the same time has peeked a lot of curiousity for me with regards to the Morman Faith. I love your devotion and all the courage and love it brings. Keep it up CJane for you will always be my sister in Christ.

carriex3 said...

Oh my butterflies in my tummy.....
So many prayers answered it is amazing..... Blessings to you both:)
Carriex3
http://www.creativeandblessed.com

stiney said...

This is the post we've all been waiting for, I think. Praise God it's here!

Here's to Nie's miraculous recovery thus far, and hope for what's to come...

xo

Anonymous said...

It will be so wonderful to read both blogs and what a blessing that she is ready to get back into her life. What an inspiration she is and will be, as you and your whole family.

Connie-AZ

Pink Lemonade Bags said...

I was so enthralled with reading your post, anxious to see where your post was going to take us, that I was completely startled back to reality when I heard the bus stop in front of our house, waiting to take my daughter to school.

What a great start for this new year, for both you and Nie, and your literary pursuits!

natalie said...

I love it! That header is gold, I tell ya! Gold!

Take that all you Debbie Downers!

Your insight is, as always, lovely. I can't wait to hear from Nie again, and see how your lives continue to evolve.

Heather said...

You have such talent for words among many others. Can't wait to continue to read whatever comes next.

Anonymous said...

Wonderful, I can't wait to meet Stephanie......... This will be delightful to be able to read both of your blogs!

Ladybug

Angie said...

Beautiful post and beautiful looking makeover on the blog.

Angie

FarmHouse Style said...

Thanks for the laughter through tears this morning =)

Tears for the beautiful words that so clearly express pure love....
and laughter for the new angel header.

You are an angel you know? But when I saw you there complete with rosy cheeks and wings, I nearly fell off my chair laughing!

I am so glad to hear that Stephanie feels well enough to take her blog back, but rest assured, I will come here often to visit you and your "titch irreverent" take on life, whatever form it might take.

Rhonda

Lori said...

Oh I can't wait. January is always about change and new goals. Love that I change for your family is looking so good. Can't wait to continue following both of you on your blogs.

paige said...

oh my goodness...i am so excited for the next chapter in nie's healing. i wish i could just hug her ( so very gently i promise) and tell her how much i am thankful she is here...alive and climbing her mountain of survival.
thank you courtney for just being you...angel wings, tongue in cheek, & all
xo

Katherine said...

I did what I do during breakfast every morning: I visit your sister's blog and then link over to yours (although the link was gone this time). I was expecting to find nothing new, but yet looked forward to choosing a random post in the archives as has become my habit. I want you to know that I cried with happiness when I read the news. Funny how I've never met any of you and probably never will, but I've come to love you all in a bloggy friendship sort of way and I'm so happy to have the privilege of praying for you all and continuing to read your blogs during my breakfast.

A Mac and a Mug O' Joe said...

Oh my, that was simply beautiful!

RebeccaB said...

I originally came to your blog because of the Nie updates. Now I will stay because of you. I love your witty writing and putting into words things I can't.

Once again, you have reduced me to tears.

Anonymous said...

Amen.

Anonymous said...

i love you..you make me laugh, cry, think, love, hope, and then laugh some more...
you ARE an angel and i LOVE that you aren't afraid to show proof!

Rhona said...

What wonderful news. Looking forward to having two blogs to watch instead of one. I've really enjoyed your writing and will continue to check back regularly. Also looking forward to reading Nie's blog which I, also, came across after her accident. Thank you for all you've done to keep us up to date with Stephanie & Christian's progress.

Julie said...

Thank you for sharing this news... thank you for sharing your blog...I will continue to look forward with you and yours from me and mine.

jen said...

Yay for you.
Yay for Nie.
Yay for all of your children
and husbands!
Congratulations on yet another new start!

KBroome said...

I told my husband not too long ago that if I could meet anyone in the world, it would be Courtney and Stephanie from the blog world. Actually, I would meet all of the sisters. I am sure Lucy and Page are cool too. But! I am so excited Stephanie will be back to her blog. It will be such a blessing to so many of us readers. I for one am blessed by the both of you. Your stories and the lessons I cna learn. I take from you Cjane, a desire to be more selfless. You are so very selfless. And from Stephanie, a desire to see each day with wonderful impossibilities.
Please never stop writing!
Much Love

Aim said...

I just love you, I don't know how else to say it. You are my start to the new day. I love how you write, I am addicted. I am so glad you are you and do what you do. Yeah for Nie, 2009 is already soooooo good.

My Happy Homestead said...

Hallelujah! What we all have been praying for…not a return to her blog… I mean that will be great, but it’s only the icing on the cake…. The fact that she is well enough to return to her blog is a testament that she is getting better! And that’s what we have prayed. Thank you Jesus!

Well done Courtney...for taking good care of the extra little people abiding in your home,and for all the other things you did, that we'll never even know about.

Anonymous said...

c jane, thank you for the great news! I'm looking forward to Stephanie's return to her blog and so thankful that she is feeling well enough to do so.

I love your writing style and your sense of humor. Your blog is one of my favorites.
Teresa

Jaime said...

First, I did about ten cartwheels when I checked Nie's blog and became so excited about her return.

Second, I nearly broke down in tears of joy and appreciation after I checked your blog and saw that her life and your life are getting put back together.

While I can't wait to be able to read Nie's words again, I am forever attached to your blog and your quirkiness. It's contagious.

I'm so envious (in a good way) of the relationship and goodness of your sisters. You are very luck, but I know you already know that.

Ream O Rama said...

What a marvelous New Year's gift! For 2009 I get to read BOTH of you. Nie, thanks for letting me get to know your sister a little...she is quite the wordsmith

jenj22 said...

I pray my daughters are as good to each other as you sisters are. Truly Angels!! I love to read your wonderfully written words. Thanks.

Janet said...

Amen. Amen. AMEN!!!

The Johnson 5 said...

I am so glad for your sister and you. I can't wait to read both of you!!

Jody said...

you ARE an angel =)

Ella said...

Hmmm. So all the not-so-flattering comments have been erased...

Rochelleht said...

WOW! How lovely. Can't wait.

My crazy crazy life said...

C Jane, only you can bring me to tears at 7:00 in the morning. You writing was so moving and it touched me in so many ways, you will never know. Your family is an inspiration to us all. My goodness, I can barely type because I'm crying so hard. Even though we've never met and I tend not to cry so much, I want you to know the world LOVES you and your sister and your entire family!

The Real Me said...

I was so worried as I scrolled through that whole post that you were trying to say you were going to stop blogging! And then what would I do?!?!?!?

Laura said...

Thank you! The world is nothing without a sister.

Audra said...

And the 16th is my bday too...what an awesome bday gift!

Mary said...

I'm happy for both of you. When I was reading some posts from yesterday, I became sad at how very mean some people can be. I'm glad that you realize that the majority of us that read do it because we love you. Thank you for the little treat I get each time there is a new posting.

Anonymous said...

How awesome! I am so excited for what is to come with your blog. Your blog, and Nie's, have come to mean a lot to me in the last couple of months. God bless you!
Emily:)

waldenhouse said...

Woohoo! and Amen!

Lynn said...

All I can say is God Bless You, each and every one of your family.

OlaO said...

Thank you for the beautiful post,I'm so glad nienie is ready to continue her blog, you are amaizing sister to her, I wish I had a sister like you.
much love 2 both of you.

tamara muth-king said...

I'm so relieved that you and your sister are coming full circle, in the dance of life that you have both been swirled up into. Cue the new music.

michelle said...

What a lovely announcement. Lovely post. Lovely writing. Lovely sisters!

Jordan said...

Looking forward to it!

a.men said...

Excellent! I can hardly wait!

Having three sisters myself, I know exactly what you mean about the bond of bond sisters. Bless you all!

lbrinson said...

I have enjoyed your blog so much and even bought your book. I am looking forward to Nie returning (Thank you Jesus) and continuing to enjoy your blog in whatever form that it may evolve.

mascanlon said...

I have loved meeting you all the past 5 months although the circumstances often broke my heart. I look forward to walking along with you both on the next piece of the journey. Oh and C Jane, the angel header is the best. In the face of it all, big hurts and small laughter is great medicine!

Tammy (Mom to this crazy bunch) said...

beautiful and moving...and exciting!

mountain.mama said...

I LOVE the new header. You deserve those wings. And the post is beautiful. Life is amazing and you write about it so creatively. Thrilled beyond words that your sister is coming back and you are staying.

The Cuties' Mommy said...

Yippee!! I can't wait. You and Stephanie back? Can't wait!!

YOU are such an inspiration!

Anonymous said...

Bless Nie's heart! She is such a testimony of the healing power of God & answered prayer.
And you C jane are such a blessing...in every way!!!

Susan said...

That is lovely, you dear angel!

wideopenspacesplease said...

Yea Nie & Court! You are two very strong women!

Leslie said...

Wonderful, wonderful! You and your sister both make me laugh and cry. Sometimes in the same post. Here's to finding your new normal! Congratulations!!

wideopenspacesplease said...

oh - and I love, LOVE the new header. just great.

dana said...

i am so happy to hear that stephanie is doing well. there could not be a better way to start my morning! thank god she has wonderful family to lean on during this time. god bless!

MaryAnne said...

I really enjoyed reading this post, and your new saintly banner is awesome.

~Karley~ said...

Simply amazing....

b. said...

What a ride it's been so far...thank you for doing exactly what you needed to do and for taking us along!

Anonymous said...

And there was much rejoicing in the kingdom.....for both of the brave warriors had returned home after their fierce battles. Each to start their next and seperate journey into the unknown. The loyal followers with them every step of the way as they chart new waters! REJOICE!.....REJOICE....REJOICE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Blessings From Above said...

I am so happy for you both! Can't wait to read about the next "phase" of your life. You truly are a gifted writer. I imagine you could write a blog about dirt...and with your spin it would be beautiful! :)

chel wakley said...

Thank you for touching my life
chelcram@msn.com

Be.Amazing Bath Products by~ Gigi said...

Oh Courtney and Stephanie,
I am so happy to see you both capture your lives back. Of course you have wings, we knew that before the new look. There is not a better word to describe sisters than what the love you have poured into your writing. How is Lucy fairing?
Gigi

mommyatlaw said...

I am so grateful to start my day with your touching words. Every day. And I look forward to the 16th!

Anonymous said...

ohhhhmygoodness! i honestly didnt think nie would write again for a very long time. (which, while i was very sad about it, i totally undertood). it's amazing to see prayers in action.
and best header EVER heehee

dan said...

That is one of the most awesome headers I've ever seen. I'm glad things are moving back to normal.

Tongue in Cheek said...

CJane you amaze me;
What ever turn is in your journey you seem to greet it full on... running and jumping and holding it up in prayer while smiling with faith.
Bravo!
That takes courage and faith.
A hell lot of it.
You have it in loads, and share it in just the right dose.
Glorious new adventure to both of you, to all of you.
I will listen.

Kelli said...

I still continue to have tears! That is wonderful news. Thank you for all that you've done.

Anonymous said...

I could not be more happy that you are going to continue your fabulous MAJOR blog and that Stephanie will be back .... we, your "public," are so excited to hear more from the two of you. Thank you for everything!!

Sara said...

We are very happy for you and your family. Best wishes for your continued recovery!

Leslie Jam said...

Courtney you are such an amazing example of how we can use technology and love to change the world. Thank you for continuing to share your journey!

I'm thrilled that Stephanie is doing better, may you all continue to be blessed!

justlori2day said...

I cannot wait. Your post on Nie's site raised my spirits so!

YAY for both of you! Here is to a wonderment filled 2009!

SSAS said...

nice wings

FYI: epoWING was my word verification

Brookeh said...

That is so exciting! I'm so glad that I found you. I love to read your blog. I really enjoyed your previous posts about Sacrifice and Happiness. It was a needed reminder. I look forward to the day when I can read both of your blogs. Have a Beautiful DAY!

Emily said...

To you and Nie and Christian and The Chief and Chup and everyone - thank you for sharing and loving the way you do. I cannot imagine how difficult some of these moments have been for you, but we, your readers, have been blessed by it. Thank you so much. I look forward to reading your blog each morning and always feel uplifted after. Your spirits are strong and your testimonies of Christ strengthen all of us. I know I will probably never meet you, but please know that I love and pray for all of you. I can't wait to read what you write next. Three cheers for you!

Krizzle said...

Yay!! Is it in bad taste to say I feel like a fan of Lost and a new season is about to debut, except it isnt' a tv show. It's a wonderful life.

Emie said...

So this whole week has been a rough one for me! I went to bed last night hoping today would be a better day. This morning was again, rough!
But then I sat at work, at my desk, and read first your update on Nie Nie's Blog and then your beautiful words and I feel as if the ugliness of my day has vanished.
I can't wait to see what's in store for both of your blogs.
Here's to a fantastic 2009!
And Courtney, thanks for putting the first genuine smile on my face this morning!

jbondsgirl said...

And lo, it was good. Very, very good.

*hugs* to all the family, from this house to all of yours.

xoxo
Flicka

{natalie} said...

please tell steph she's still inspiring. and so are you.

Spymommy said...

Ahh, that new header is just bringing some joy into my life today. You are a blogging angel. I'm so excited for Nie and so excited for you. What great things can happen with love, care and the power of prayer! (nice rhyme?) Thank you!

Grapefruit said...

Can't wait to read BOTH blogs!

Anonymous said...

I wish I had had the same miracle as you. My 15-year-old sister passed away this year.

Hug your sister for those of us that no longer can.

Kim said...

Tears, for some reason.

You've been wonderful.

Anonymous said...

You capture the bittersweet blessings of life perfectly :-) Thank you for it!

Elyssium Earth said...

Goosebumps, girl. And a serious dose of universal love just came flooding right into my computer room. You're majestic with words. Ah. And The header? PERFECT! Bless us all xxx

LobotoME said...

i cannot even tell you how i excited i am for all of you!

xo, jenny

ps - love the new header!

Cassandra said...

Well, c jane, you've got me hook, line and sinker. I'll read Nie, but I also have a love for your words here. What lovely sisters, mothers, wives you are.

Laura said...

How could I not smile when I saw your new header - you have been an angel to your sister, and continue to be! I know the blogging world is happy that Stephanie is returning. And the beat goes on . . . . .

denversavage said...

Hallelujah!! Thank you Jesus! WoW! What an amAzing story this is!

Job well done Courtney! And the new banner-priceless!!!!

Elyssium Earth said...

I had to comment again because of all those ugly word verifications I could get??? This one??

neniesse!!!! HMMMMMM :) he's a tricky one!

Eden said...

Beautiful. Thanks for writing for your sister and thanks for sharing this new transition. Lovely piece.

Shorty said...

When I read your post, and the post at Nie Nie Dialogues this morning, I literally got chills and tears in my eyes! I can not put into words just how excited I am for both of you, and for ME of course, since I get to keep being part of your shared worlds. Wow. WOW! Thanks to you both, and thanks be to God for His healing, guidance, wisdom, gifts....you and Steph continue to bless me (and I know there are thousands more just like me). Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Rhonda said...

Your blog has become part of my morning routine, my 10 oclock routine, well honestly...I added it to my igoogle so i see the second you post an update. So I'm very excited to see what the future holds for Miss C jane.

dishes and laundry said...

Beautiful. What blessings...what miracles! I read your blog every morning - the 15 minutes of breakfast and hollering (doesn't that sound nicer than yelling) at the kids to hurry - and now I have to go touch up my mascara. Thank you for your beautiful words!

TX Girl said...

You are so irreverent and I LOVE IT. Please pass along to Ms. Nie (although I'm sure she already knows) that there is NO PRESSURE.

Cristy said...

Wow. That's AMAZING news! God bless you and your sis for being SO courageous.

T said...

Oh, you are just so wonderful Court! Thank you for allowing us to enjoy and most importantly, learn from both of your experiences in this life. How lucky as your readers we really are!

Cindy said...

I am so very, very, happy for you all!!

Your new header made me laugh out loud!! You go girl!!!

karengberger said...

Praise God for His goodness and love, about which we have all learned more because of Nie, because of you & your family. God bless you. Let the writing begin (again)!

Tammy said...

Remember: "The errand of angels was given to women..." You have been your sister's angel and it is a blessing to watch and learn from your trials. Thank you!!!

BTW- I ove the new header...incredibly perfect!!!!

Claire said...

The 16th may warrant a few balloons released for wishes answered.

Maddison said...

What joyous and wonderful news on all accounts! I am so happy for Stephanie for her recovery, for you and all your family for EVERYTHING. You are all such an incredible example of love, charity, service, sacrifice, faith, hope, and so much more that has truly touched my life forever. Thank you so very much, Courtney, for sharing your story with us, thank you.

ryan and jolee said...

I love the new page! What a great post! I can't wait for Nie to return and I also can't wait to continue reading your blog. It is such an inspiration! You truly are an angel.

Reenie said...

Once again Court, that was beautiful.

LOVE the new look:)

God Bless ~

NennysPage said...

C Jane - your writing style has been such an inspiration to me to enjoy and cherish all the things the good Lord blesses me with daily. To slow down and take in all that we are given and cease every moment! Thanks for the wonderful reading and entertainment!

Kate said...

I am so excited to enter into the next phase with you and I am also so excited to have Nie back. Your family is truly amazing and you give hope & inspiration to me every single day.

Marianne said...

Oh, you darling girl! St. Cjane! You are an angel and don't ever let those "annonymous" bloggers out there tell you any differently. I am SO happy you have your sister back! I also have the feeling all of this snow I have piled up at the sides of my driveway is just for her. Another miracle! (I shall not grumble as I shovel, I shall not grumble...)

Stephanie said...

All I can say is AMEN!

Amy said...

Amen... I think everyone is getting their "spice" back this month!

Nancy said...

Please tell Stephanie we love her and still pray for her.

Will she take comments? Because I'm afraid her computer might crash if she does. :)

Maren said...

Oh you ARE an angel for giving me a good out loud laugh this morning with your new design. Perfect. You are also an inspriring angel who reminded me of my (wonderful)duty as a sister in taking care of my nieces while my sister and husband were stuck trying to get back from Ethiopia with their brand new baby, our Zion. Those days of waiting and waiting not knowing when they could make it back were far shorter than your waiting, and it gave me strength to know of your sacrifice and dedication.

Michelle said...

Wow! Cjane, my heart is overflowing with joy for you and your precious family. God is faithful! Miracles happen! ...And the best is yet to come!

Blessings,

Michelle

Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future"

cluffconstructionclan said...

This is so exciting, all of it!!! I am so excited to read it ALL!!! Love you both much

Vanessa said...

The new header is fabulous!!

I'm looking forward to reading both blogs, it has been a life altering privilege to follow both of your stories. Can't wait to see what this new chapter brings!

Katie said...

Such wonderful news!!!

Hetrick family said...

Amen indeed!!

So happy for all of you as you start this new beginning. Especially grateful for the children. They have been so loved this entire time.

I'll start my countdown for the 16th. And I will continue to read you daily as your are an amazing, hilarious woman!

Summer and family said...

Thank you for sharing your life and family with all of us. You have touched me deeply.
Continued payers for your family.

Jenn-Lee said...

you have blessed my life in so many ways! I find myself sitting here with three loud hyper little girls and tears in my eyes from this post! You are amazing!You have amazing gift Heavenly Father gave you to express your thoughts in such a creative way! He is very pleased with you I am sure of it! I love CJANE!I am so excited to see what comes next!

Ashley Harward said...

WONDERFUL!

Laura Solomon said...

First of all I ((love)) the tic pix of you and the angel get up.
Fabulous.

Can't wait to see what you both do on January 16th

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