Friday, July 10, 2009

Ethan's NILMDTS pictures

We received our NILMDTS prints of Ethan in the mail today. Last week we got the CD and DVD slideshow, and I was able to order some of the pictures. I can't say enough about our photographer Robin Ewing and the compassion she showed to us. She had a shoot in middle GA that day and still drove up to Gwinnett to volunteer and take our pictures that night. For some reason, seeing them on the computer was different than holding the prints. What a blessing to see that sweet face!

I'm usually a pretty private person, so being honest here is still surprising to me. Moving to Ithaca though has made me appreciate the friends and family we have around the country now, so it has been wonderful to stay in touch. Maybe one day I will post the pictures, but for now, here's a pic of some of the prints I ordered.



I went to the doctor up here for the first time. I was incredibly nervous, but the entire staff was so compassionate. My records had not arrived yet so we could not discuss specifics, but we did discuss our situation with the doctor and she reaffirmed that we didn't do anything wrong. When something like this happens it's hard not to think about the 'what ifs' and 'if I'd of onlys', so meeting with her helped give me some peace. The doctor called the next day and my liver enzymes are no longer elevated, an answered prayer. Once my records come in and she can look at them, we will meet again to discuss things more. Please pray for wisdom for us as we decide where to go from here.

Have you read Philippians 4 lately? I memorized part of it while we were in Texas, but it has been on my mind lately. I am such a planner and having parts of our lives up in the air can be stressful. The whole chapter is worth reading, but here's the part that I've been trying to put into practice (bold mine):

6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

... for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13I can do everything through him who gives me strength.


Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Savin' money

In the past few months we've been working harder to cut corners where we can. I know I'm not the only one who likes to save money, so I thought I would pass along some of the websites I use to find the good deals!



There are plenty of websites that provide online printable coupons and explain the drugstore savings programs to you.

Southern Savers
Though we don't live in the south anymore, she has great links for printable coupons and explains the drugstore systems well

Kingdom First
I just found this one, another good source. She doesn't break down things like Southernsavers, but I like the freebies she shows

Jennifer's Blog
I went to college with Jennifer, she gives all kinds of money-saving ideas, particularly restaurant and drug store tips

Old Navy Weekly
A site from Old Navy where you literally hunt for coupons every week. I wouldn't go to Old Navy without a coupon now. They even have some for $45 off of $75, etc, but I never get on there quick enough =)

Slick Deals
Brian has used this website for years and wouldn't buy a larger item without checking here first. It's a forum where people post great deals, and it where we found our patio set at 75% off and several other things. You can even sign up for alerts if there is something you want to buy but don't see a good deal on yet.


These are just a few, but they have made a big difference for us! I particularly recommend reading up on the drugstore programs, I don't plan on paying for toothpaste ever again!

Do you have any money-saving websites you use?