MeRrY ChRiStMaS!

Merry CHRIST-mas from our family to yours! As you've probably noticed, it's been almost a month since our last post. Between Christmas programs, finishing up classes, subbing, and the "normal" hub-bub of the holiday season, we've been keeping pretty busy. Believe it not, with Christmas being a mere TWO days away, things are starting to slow down, at least for a few hours!

Tomorrow we will be leaving to celebrate Christmas with the Spore clan in Eureka. This Christmas will be a very emotional one for us all. Mark's brother, John, his wife, Cheryl, and their two boys, Tyler and Seth, lost their home and everything they owned except the clothes on their backs, to an electrical fire on December 9th. We thank God none of then were home at the time. Even still, it has been tough on each of them. We'd ask that you please keep them in your prayers during this difficult time.

After our Eureka celebration we will be traveling on to Cherryvale, where my parents (the Zuck's) live. My sister from Florida is coming home this year with her family. Us four girls, our families, and mom and dad will all be together for lots of fun, laughs, and memory making! It's sure to be a CRAZY time! We only wish our family in Indiana, Justin and Kristina and their families could be with us. (We love you all!)

As we celebrate Christ's birth, we will be thinking and praying for each of our loved ones, as yourself. We wish all of you a very blessed Christmas from our family to yours!



Mark, Penny, Logan, Ethan, and Caleb Spore

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

From our family to yours
Happy Thanksgiving!

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Our Baby Boy is 11!!!

Caleb Elijah Spore turned 11 today, November 21.
However, he is spending it sick and in bed. Poor lil guy...
Please send him your get well and happy birthday wishes to brighten his day.

We love you Caleb a.k.a. Lil' Fighter!

Ce-LeBrAtE gOoD tImEs...O yEaH!

Have you ever read, "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day" by Judith Viorst? From the moment Alexander wakes up with gum in his hair, things just don't go his way. His teacher doesn't like his drawing of an invisible castle, he loses his yo-yo, there is no dessert in his lunch, the dentist tells him he has a cavity, and there is kissing on TV, and that's just the beginning. It's a wonderful children's book that I would recommend to all parents and elementary school age children.

The past couple of weeks we've made our own true-to-life story, "The Spore's and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad WEEK!" Our heater quit working on THE coldest night AND we ran out of wood (for the fireplace) at the very same time. Brrrrr...One kid got sick, and then like dominoes they started falling...and fell and fell. Yuckkkk... The dishwasher forgot how to wash dishes...Ughhhh... The trash piled up higher and higher after, "someone" who shall remain anonoymous, didn't do his chores... Grrrr... The ONLY show I enjoy watching on tv, "House" didn't get taped, of course no one fessed up to stopping or cancelling it... Ahhhhhh... Needless to say, things were a tad bit frustrating on the home front during this time

So, why is my title about celebrating? Because in the middle of the storm, we were blessed with a rainbow. It came to us through a phone message that went something like this, "Mrs. Spore? This is Animas Corporation, your son Caleb, has finally been approved for his insulin pump." (silence...silence...silence...) "Mrs. Spore? Are you there?" At that point, I snapped out of my shock, squealing with joy! At that point, there was no question on the other end that I was still on the line.

Caleb, our 11 year old has been wanting an insulin pump for about two years. His endocrinologist agreed about a year ago, but it wasn't until now that the insurance company finally approved it "medically necessary." (Don't even get me started with that one!) Ethan, our 14 year old and older brother of Caleb, got his insulin pump at 11 years old, when he was in 5th grade as well. He is going on his fourth year with his pump and loves it!

Our terrible, horrible, no good, very bad week turned in to one of the best ever with the news of Caleb getting a pump! Spread some love by congratulating him. He's a lil fighter, but needs to be encouraged during this crazy transition time. Thanks!

True or False

Welcome to our family blog!
You're just in time to take our pop quiz. It's only four little questions and who knows maybe you'll learn something along the way! Good luck!

DIABETES QUIZ

1. Diabetes is not a killer disease.
2. Diabetes is heavily funded globally.
3. Diabetes only affects old people.
4. Diabetes is the result of unhealthy "lifestyles."
   

So, how do you think you did?

What if I told you diabetes kills some 3.8 million people a year. In fact, every 10 seconds a person dies from diabetes-related causes. "For the first time, a non-infectious disease has been seen as posing as serious a global health threat as infectious epidemics such as HIV/AIDS." (International Diabetes Federation)

Official Overseas Development Aid to the health sector in 2002 reached 2.9 billion, of which a mere 0.1% went to fund ALL non-communicable chronic diseases. Most of the 2.9 billion went to support HIV/AIDS. Despite diabetes having a deadly global impact comparable to HIV/AIDS, it had to share the tiny 0.1% of the total NCD funding. In addition, the World Bank gave 4.2 billion in loans for health, population and nutrition between 1997 and 2002. Only 2.5% of the 4.2 billion went to chronic diseases. Where did the rest go?

The reality is that the poor and children have limited choices when it comes to living conditions, diet and education.

NOW, how do you think you did? If you answered FALSE to ALL four questions, you got 100%! If not, don't worry, I won't post your scores IF you'll promise to take a look at how YOU can help save the life of a child. It's simple, just visit my sister blog, A Lil' Bit This... A Lil' Bit That... Look for the post titled, "Life For A Child" and leave a comment to let me know you stopped by. You'll get the pure satisfaction of knowing how YOU can make a difference in another's life. What other prize or giveaway can be as fulfilling as that?

A Mom's Promise

She walks down the hallway in silence so deep,
Keeping watch over him, as her little one sleeps.
With meter in hand, she opens his door,
Making sure not to wake him as she crosses the floor.

She sits on his bedside and brushes his hair,
As he dreams of shooting baskets, without a 'D' care.
She holds his hand softly; his fingers so small,
As she watches and wonders why 'D' came to call.

While she watches him sleeping, so peaceful and warm,
The forces inside him fight a constant 'D' storm.
Will he ever be free of shots and blood testing?
She sits and she wonders as she watches him resting.

The beep of the meter breaks the silence of the night,
A small drop of blood tells if everything's right.
The seconds count down to the final display,
I hate this damn meter; I want to throw it away.

The number is fine, one down, a lifetime to go,
As he turns in his sleep, will he ever know?
Why does this ‘D’ happen to someone so small?
My son is my hero, but my baby most of all.

She turns at his doorway, looking back one more time,
It's a nightly routine of the very worst kind.
She walks down the hallway and time passes by,
As she sits in dark silence and quietly cries.

I have to stay strong, and for him I will fight,
We’ll battle this ‘D’ with all of our might.
I’ll teach him to master and conquer this foe,
This 'D' will not stop him, I promised him so.

Gary Hempleman

3 years ago May 31, 2008

Seven years after our middle son Ethan was diagnosed, our baby, Caleb was also diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. Caleb was seven years old on May 31, 2005 when we were given the dreadful news. We'd suspected the sad possibility, but were holding out for good news. It was in the Wendy's parking lot, after getting Chicken Nuggets and french fries, (Caleb's favorite) that I remember reaching out for Mark's arms. I broke down sobbing, "Why? Why another?" Then in silence, we held each other for what seemed like forever...

Caleb? He was a trooper! He always thought he'd have diabetes too, after he was old enough to realize what was going on with Ethan. Sadly enough, he was right. However, he didn't have to stay in the hospital as Ethan did. The Endocrinologist, didn't feel there was a need since we had seven years of taking care of Ethan under our belts. Looking back now, I feel it would've been better if he had. Caleb didn't transition as well as Ethan. Checking his blood sugar and the shots were a bit frightening in the beginning, but not for long, as he'd seen big brother do it for years. The diet on the other hand, that was a whole different story. I blame this partly on the age difference between Ethan and Caleb when they were diagnosed. Ethan was four and Caleb was seven. It's amazing what a difference three years can make.

You see, Ethan has never known life without diabetes. When you ask him, he cannot tell you a time when he didn't have it. I hate that for him, yet because of this, his diabetes is second nature to him now. Somewhat like brushing your teeth if you will. This is a little boy who at the age of 10 had never had a 3 Musketeers bite-size candy bar. On the other hand, Caleb, at age seven, had already experienced many of the things Ethan had not. He unfortunately knew what he was missing out on and so it was harder for him to not want the things he had required a taste for.

I also blame us, his parents, for not helping to make Caleb's transition smoother. One of my sister's hit the nail on the head, when she said, "You haven't been as proactive with Caleb as you were with Ethan." Sad enough but true, this has been a huge factor in dealing with his diabetes for all of us.

As a parent, we do the best we can with what we have and what we know at the time. Yet, in our boys' case, we can't afford to "slack off." If you are a parent reading this and your child has a special health concern, I ask that you stop and consider, "What can I do to make sure my child's health is a top priority in my daily life?" None of us mean to harm our children, yet many of us get caught up in this thing we call "life" and forget that the little things are what add up in the end. Please comment below with any ideas, thoughts, or suggestions, you and your family have dealt with in your journey with diabetes or any other child-related disorder or disease. You may remain anonymous if you wish. God bless.

10 Years Ago Today-Part 4

After all the lessons and getting Ethan's blood sugar under control, it was time to leave the hospital and try what we learned in the real world. The only problem was, Mark and I were not ready to go. It was like leaving the hospital with a new born baby for the first time all over again. What if? and How do we? and Will he? were just a few of the questions which filled our timid minds. We didn't get a mile from the hospital when Ethan bellowed out, "I'm hungry!" He wanted a corn dog. Great! Just great! That meant giving him insulin and than what if... and...the questions resurfaced all over again. We gave in, since starving him wouldn't end up any better, and he happily chowed down on a corn dog and french fries. Our timidness behavior stayed with us for some time. In fact, I'm not sure when we started feeling "at home." However, one thing I do know, is since the day we walked out of the hospital Ethan's life has never been the same.

Checking blood sugars five to seven times a day is an interruption in any kids life. Seriously? What child would want to stop playing hide and seek or be last out the door to go sledding because they have to check their blood sugar? Then,if his blood sugars aren't "good", they can keep him from doing things he wants to do. Both high and low blood sugars have kept Ethan from playing football,the love of his life, more than once. Erratic blood sugars have also kept him from getting to go places his big brother got to go. Sick days? Being sick with diabetes is a lot more complicated with lots of extra pricks and pokes. Not to mention when his asthma flares up and he's put on Prednisone, a steroid for swelling and inflammation. It causes blood sugars to go through the roof! I kid you not, there was a time I had to give Ethan 10+ shots in a period of a few hours just to counteract the Prednisone in his little body. The list goes on and on...

So, when you hear things like, "Diabetes is manageable" or "What are they complaining about? All he has to do is take a little shot and watch what he eats." Think again!

1.Not all types of diabetes are treated the same.
2.There is more than one type of diabetes (see post on sister blog).
3.Manageable doesn't mean easy or a cure!
4.Walk in the shoes of any diabetic child, THAN you can see how you feel.

At the same time, know we are SO thankful that Ethan wasn't diagnosed with something more serious than Type 1 diabetes. Sadly enough, there is always someone, somewhere, worse off than yourself. We've tried to instill this in all of our children and to be thankful in ALL things. Some days are just better than others.

10 Years Ago Today-Part 3

Time seemed to slow down through out the rest of the day, but just as I was ready to throw in the towel, the love of my life walked through the door. I was thrilled to see him! We hugged, but I think he was anxious to see his little boy than anything else. Under the circumstances, who could blame him? He went straight to Ethan's bedside, our 4 year old who had been diagnosed earlier that day with Type 1 Diabetes. Ethan was excited to see daddy and began telling him about everything he had missed. He was upbeat and smiling. Of all things...smiling! That's our Ethan!

Ethan has always had a smile that lit up a room. His dad has the same smile. He doesn't know what a stranger is, isn't the least bit shy, and is the "social-butterfly" of our family (not including myself of course!). He has always been VERY inquisitive, smart, and a perfectionist (which he comes by naturally from his father & grandfather.) He also has the biggest heart of any kid I've known! He was always a strong kid, (he had to be with his older brother, Logan, pushing him around all the time), but after diagnosis he grew even stronger. There isn't a day that goes by that I am not amazed by Ethan's strength and determination. I am blessed to have him as my son and lil' protector.

We all stayed a week at the hospital attending classes and going through training on how to take care of Ethan and his diabetes. When it came time to learn how to give him his insulin shot, the diabetic educator had Mark and I give ourselves a shot of saline first. Her theory was that many parents feel they are hurting their child, when in reality it is nothing more than a little poke. It would be easier to give him his shots if we knew how it felt. I wasn't convinced of her theory, but soon learned there was no turning back. 1...2...3... and Mark was done. Me on the other hand, I'm not sure how long we were there. I broke down, sobbing uncontrollably for about 10 minutes. Finally, I closed my eyes (yeah, not the smartest thing to do) and stuck it in. Mark's first words were, "See, that wasn't so bad." I opened my eyes and glared at him. Poor guy, he was just trying to help.

After the traumatic lesson on giving shots, Ethan learned how to check his own blood sugar. He did a great job! And when the nurse gave him his first shot that week it was the ONLY time he cried. (I must say on his behalf however, the lady did NOT know what she was doing and had NO bedside manners!) Before we left, Daddy gave him a shot. They both survived it, with daddy being overly cautious and Ethan reassuring him, "It's okay daddy, it didn't hurt that bad."

10 Years Ago Today-Part 2

My father and I were holding each other and crying when my four year old said, "What's wrong mommy?" I quickly tried wiping the tears away, as my father said, "Mama's just sad honey." I stammered to regain my composure as I went over to sit down beside him. "Ethan sweetie, that was the lady with your results from the test we've been taking." "What did she say mommy?" I choked down more tears as I pulled him closer, "She said you have something called diabetes. You have to stay in the hospital for a few days until we get things under control. Mommy will be right here and daddy will be here soon" to which I started crying again. "What's diabetes?" he asked innocently as he looked up at me with his big brown eyes and face full of freckles. "Well, sweetie, it's what Pappy has. Remember when you watch him test his blood sugars or get him juice when he goes low? You will have to do the same thing now too, but the doctors will teach us all about it and what daddy and I need to do to help you. Okay?"

During this time, my father was on the other side of the room, with tear-filled eyes and a pain stricken heart. I knew from the past, this was the last thing my father, my children's "Pappy" wanted for any of his loved ones. He felt a personal responsibility for Ethan, my four year old, developing diabetes. Yet, we both knew it was no ones fault. We couldn't have stopped this from happening. It was not in our power. It was only in the hands of the Lord now and all we could do was trust in Him. Ethan became concerned about both of us. "What's the big deal mommy? Why is Pappy crying?" I explained to him that Pappy was just sad like mommy and felt like it was his fault. "Pappy didn't do this. It's okay."

That was all it took for me to realize the strength of my little one and that he would always be my little hero! I knew he didn't understand the depth of what having diabetes meant, but yet, I was at peace knowing he was going to be alright. If it had to happen to one of my children, the Lord definitely knew which one could handle it, for this I was thankful.

It took awhile before they were able to get us into a hospital room. While we were waiting, I called my husband at work to give him the dreadful news. I heard his voice and immediately broke down yet again. It was hard to find the words. He was so sure that his lil' boy didn't have anything seriously wrong with him, yet I had to be the bearer of bad news. "Are they sure? Is there anything else it could be?" he questioned. He didn't want to accept the news anymore than the rest of us did. However, deep down he knew what this meant for Ethan and the years to come.

10 Years Ago Today...

It was on this day 10 years ago that my four year old son and I began our journey. We started Monday morning, November 2nd, off bright and early with a three hour stretch ahead of us. Although we did not know it at the time, it was a path we would continue to travel many,many times, even to this day. We arrived at our destination mid-morning, not knowing what was to come. Then in a blink of an eye, outstretched arms greeted us, filled with love and warmth. Questions were asked, answers were given, and we were told to report back the next day for more testing. The next day...24 hours later... how would I survive not knowing?

My mind tried to make sense of it all, but deep down my heart already knew the truth. One thing I've come to believe as a mom, is that we have this "sense" (A vague feeling or premonition) when it comes to our children. I've learned to trust this inner feeling, although at times I wish it were wrong. This was one of those times.

That night was long and seem to last forever. I tossed and turned, hour after hour, wondering what the next day would bring in our lives. The sun finally peaked over the horizon, where we woke to a new day. Our journey began shortly after light, as we ventured out into the cool, brisk morning air. This time, my father accompanied us on our path. We arrived at our destination right on time, where my four year old was given an IV and blood was drawn. He then drank a glucose beverage. Straight sugar...75 grams in fact. If you've never been blessed to drink a glucose beverage, you aren't missing out on much. It tastes like pop with no carbonation. Nasty stuff!

This process continued all morning; drink...30 minutes later blood drawn, drink...1 hour later blood drawn, drink... 2 hours later blood drawn, drink... 3 hours later and last blood draw. During this time, I played and laughed with my lil' boy. His smile lit up the room, as the quiet halls were filled with his laughter. There was a time that we simply held each other in silence, drifting off to dreamland, but it didn't last long. I woke to the ringing of a phone, then a lady's voice calling out to me. I was startled at first, but quickly moved for the phone. On the other end was another ladies' voice. "Mrs. Spore?" "Yes,this is she" I replied. "We have the results back to your sons' test and they were positive. He is being admitted as we speak. The doctor will be over soon to speak with you." I barely got, "Thank you" out before I froze in shock. Surely I had heard her wrong. How could? Why? But? I tried with all my might to tell myself I was still dreaming, yet the emptiness in the pit of my stomach and the cold, wet tears on my cheeks were sure signs I was awake. I hung the phone up and before I could look over at my lil' boy with the big smile and brown freckles across his nose I was engulfed by my father's arms. We held each other, crying, for we knew what lied ahead for the one we loved so dearly.

National Diabetes Awareness Month-November!

November is American Diabetes Month, a time to bring even greater awareness and attention to the seriousness of diabetes, its deadly complications, and the importance of proper diabetes control. This year, the American Diabetes Association is asking the American public, "Why should you care about diabetes?"

Throughout the month, my sister blog, Lil' Bit This...Lil' Bit That... will encourage others to get involved in efforts to raise awareness about diabetes and its serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, blindness and amputations.

This disease hits close to home with us, as two of our three children have Type 1 Diabetes. It's a 365/24/7 life-threatening disease that insulin is NOT a cure for, but a mere band-aid! Please join in our efforts as we help raise awareness of this epidemic.

BiRtHdAy BoY!

ETHAN MCCALL SPORE
10/24/1994
8lbs. 8 oz.
19.5"
Then...

Ethan's Top 5 at 4 Years Old
Football
Pooh Bear
Cowboy Boots
Chocolate Cake
Mee-Mee's (Blankets)

Now...

Girls
Fast Cars
Deer Hunting
Texas Walker a.k.a. Chuck Norris
WE LOVE YOU ETHAN!
Please leave BIRTHDAY WISHES for Ethan in the comments!

BOO-YA!!!

I couldn't let October go by, without a Halloween post or two. Halloween is right around the corner and although our family doesn't go trick-or-treating anymore, we have a new family tradition. For the past four years, the hubby and I load up a couple dozen middle and high school age kids and take them to the area spook houses. Everyone has a spook-tacular time even with the old fogies! In fact, our oldest is now 16 and still asked us to take him and his friends this year! You can bet that made mom smile! :) You can also bet that our house will be filled with colors of fall, pumpkins, the smell of cookies and other ghostly treats! Below are treats I've made for school classroom parties, home, and church dinners.

MONSTER FEET COOKIES

• 1 bag (17.5 oz.) peanut butter cookie mix
• 1/2 cup flour
• Green food coloring
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup M&M’S® Brand Peanut Chocolate Candies
• 1 (16 oz.) vanilla frosting
• 2 cookie sheet pans
• Aluminum foil
• Resealable plastic bag

Directions

• 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line sheet pans with foil.
• 2. Prepare the cookie mix according to package instructions. Knead in the flour and some of the green food coloring.
• 3. Pull off walnut-size nuggets of dough. Shape into 1 - 1 1/2-inch ovals and roll in sugar. Place on the foil lined sheet pans about 2 inches apart. Press M&M’S® Brand Peanut Chocolate Candies onto one end as the toenail. Bake in a preheated 350°F for approximately 9-12 minutes, or until just golden and cookies have puffed and spread. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool completely.
• 4. Meanwhile, tint 1 cup of frosting green and spoon into a resealable bag. Snip a very small corner from bag and pipe wavy curly lines on top of the cookies to resemble knuckles.
• Tip: If peanut butter cookies aren’t a favorite, then exchange the peanut butter cookie mix with a sugar cookie mix.

MINI PUMPKIN'S

You can harvest a whole pumpkin patch full of these sweet treats in minutes.

INGREDIENTS:
Circus Peanuts
Green Gumdrops
Granulated Sugar
Toothpicks

1. For each pumpkin, cut one circus peanut in half. Cut a small piece from a green gumdrop and trim away the sugar coating so you have a dot of the sticky inside. Use this piece as glue to stick the two halves of the peanut together, bottom to bottom.

2. Roll the pumpkin in the palms of your hands to make it round. Press lightly; you don't want to compress the candy too much.

3. Use a skewer or toothpick to poke a hole in the top of the pumpkin and draw lines down the sides. Cut another small piece from the green gumdrop and roll it in granulated sugar, molding it into a slightly conical stem shape with your fingers. Insert the stem into the hole on the top of the pumpkin.

Looking Towards Heaven,is hosting, "BOO-ya!" Check out lots of other tricks and treats for your Halloween celebration this year by clicking the button above!

Introducing...

I haven't devoted a lot of my time on our family blog to Breast Cancer Awareness month, however my personal blog, Lil' Bit This...Lil' Bit That... tells a different story. Please take time to visit and meet my new friend, Tisha Rambaransingh, a 35 yr. old single mother fighting breast cancer. You will be truly blessed by her story and fight to beat cancer. Each day I will be posting a new video of Tisha's so be sure to check back for her continuing story. You'll be inspired by her faith in God and the miracle God is working in her life.

Also, another worthy site to check out (CLICK BELOW). Make sure and share with all of your

family and friends know! Submit your cancer story for a chance to raise $$$$ for the cancer

charity of your choice. ONE LAST THING... you MUST check out their sister website below...

I think I'm in LOVE!!!
Sinful Delight, Eggnog, CocoLua, Caramel Apple Pie, Georgia Peach, Jamaica Me Crazy,
Mocha Banana Latte, Very Berry, Cookies & Cream.

It Started In The Grass Documentary

Documentary photography:
refers to a type of professional photojournalism,
but it may also be an amateur or student pursuit (quest, mission, hunt, activity)

The photographer attempts to:

* create truthful, objective (factual), and usually candid (open, honest, truthful, sincere) photography of a particular subject, most often pictures of people
* the pictures usually depict (represent, show, portray)
a certain perspective (viewpoint) of the photographer

Why is this important you ask?
What does this have to do with the family?

All three boys were outside playing football with each other Sunday when Ethan, our normally cool, calm, and collected son frantically darted in the house yelling, "MOM... MOOOOMMMM!! Come quick! Logan fell and cut his hand on something. The blood is pouring out. He needs you!" Mark immediately jumped off the couch and ran for the door. I made it out after him where Logan was moaning and groaning in pain while holding his right hand. Ethan had already managed to get a towel for him to put pressure on the cut, but the blood was managing to soak through quickly. Mark took one look at it and said, "He's going to need stitches." Ethan and Caleb were ecstatic! You would've thought it was Christmas morning and time to open presents! "I wanna go!" said Caleb. "I am going" said Ethan. To which I replied, "We don't ALL have to go. He will be okay." "But, moooommmm... (whining the whole time) we wanna watch him get stitches..." I of course, gave in to their pleas and off we went...at least I thought we were on our way when, "WAIT! We have to get the camera. Logan is gonna want to see this when it's over!" Ethan yelled . "What? You have to be kidding?? O good grief! Hurry up Ethan!" I retorted. And then it began... the flashing lights... the clicking of the camera...

Ethan documented the entire excursion (or most of it) at the emergency room. I felt his first "student quest at attempting to truthfully and sincerely represent HIS viewpoint" of Logan's jaunt needed some recognition. We ask that you are kind and courteous, he is only 13 (14 tomorrow... sniff.. sniff) and leave your comments, suggestions, and opinions after viewing:

IT STARTED IN THE GRASS
BY: ETHAN M. SPORE

How Do You Do It?

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." Romans 12:12This past Sunday, the family... yes ALL FIVE of us...made a mad dash to the local Emergency Room while blood poured from a gash in Logan's hand. Now, those that know our family up close and personal, will understand a trip to the E.R. is what you could call "routine" for our little menage! In fact, if you look back through our blog, one of the first posts was concerning a trip to the E.R. Ring any bells? Ah.. yes! I thought so and yes, it was Logan again that time as well! Sadly enough, that was ride five in an Ambulance for me. That's right! FIVE times and counting, SIX if you include my flight in a MedFlight Air Ambulance. Friends and family often say, "I don't know how you do it. I would be a mess! Our family hardly goes to the doctor, let alone the E.R. I don't know what I would do!" How do you respond to something like that, "Aw, gosh, golly, gee...it's nothing'" or "Why, thank you, I am very honored" or "What do you mean handle it? I was a blubbering idiot!" I didn't ask for two of my three boys to have life-threatening diseases. I never dreamed I'd witness my baby losing so much blood that he nearly died before my eyes and then have to go through the same thing again with the love of my life. I never thought a drunk driver would hit my father head-on at 90 miles/hour. And I never thought I would be fighting to hold my son down as his fragile body was convulsing with eyes rolled back in his head due to an extreme "low." And if that wasn't enough, who knew boys could cut, break, twist, stretch, bruise, sprain, and tear body parts so easily?!?!?!?! What would you do if it were you and your loved ones you ask?

When I recall each drawn out journey to the hospital, my heart tremors at what could've been, but wasn't. Each sombering ride, felt so cold and frightening, yet I knew I wasn't alone. I found myself, falling at the Lord's feet, kneeling in prayer, desperately pleading for a miracle. "I am not ready to let go Lord... we haven't had enough time...Please? I need...I want more time. You can't do this!" I was selfish. What would "I" do? How would "I" make it through this? My emotions would inadvertently take over as tears steamed from my red eyes, anticipating what was to come. It was then, that I felt His presence. his gentle arms wrapped around me, holding tight, strong and firm, yet tender and full of love. Cradled in his arms I heard Him whisper softly, "I am right here little one...calm down. I will not leave you. You can do this. We've been here before...you and I...trust in me and believe that I am." I felt his strength pour over me and knew at that instant, everything would be alright. I merely had to be reminded. Reminded that He believed in me! In me, plain and simple, without question! He knew without a doubt, that I could handle anything set before me. All I had to do was call on Him and He was there with no questions asked. How do I do it you ask? My strength comes from the Lord. I call upon my heavenly Father and He is there like a knight in shining armor. (Isn't it just like a father to protect and encourage his young?) You see, when I am faced with flashing lights and bellowing sounds of emergency sirens, I don't do anything but look above and he give me what I need to endure the pain and suffering.

Breast Cancer Awareness

Sorry for the delay in posting...I've been working on my personal blog at Lil This Lil That (stop by and take a look), among several other projects over the past couple of weeks. One of these projects concerns October being national Breast Cancer Awareness month. Like many others, my family has been hit by this deadly disease. Therefore, I wanted to raise awareness on our family blog as well as on my personal blog.

There are many sites on-line dedicated to Breast Cancer awareness, research, funding, and so on. One of the ways I chose to help support and bring awareness through the Internet was by joining a virtual walk. Go to www.galtogalwalk.org, register, create your own walker, and join my team, "The Terrific Tatas Tour" today! Remember working together we can accomplish so much more!

Here are some links to companies that are donating a portion of their proceeds to help fight breast cancer!

Glow Mama
Lean Cuisine and Carry for the Cause
MK Ash Charitable Foundation
Ford Care: Warriors in Pink
The Pampered Chef's Help Whip Cancer
Energizer Batteries
Uptown Liz
Build-A-Bear
Dish Network
Candle For A Cause

Check out these other websites as well. They are well worth your time!

In closing please keep in mind:

• Every 2 minutes, there is a new breast cancer diagnosis.
• Every 14 minutes, a life is lost to the disease.
• Over 40,000 people will die this year; about 400 of them will be men.
• 85% of all diagnoses have no family history.
• 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer.
• Breast cancer is the leading cause of death in women between ages 40 and 55.

We are one! We are united! We are the Indians!!!

Friday Night Lights...For the second time in four games, the Indians won as time expired or as the final seconds ticked away, as they did Friday night in a 14-6 win over Sedan with six seconds left on the clock. In fact, both of Oswego's touchdowns came in the fourth quarter after Sedan led for a quarter. Oswego High School's football team seems to like keeping its fans in suspense! Come on boys...we can't keep going on like this! Logan is still out of the game due to his torn MCL and band that goes on the side of his knee cap. We go back Wednesday to see if it's tightened up anymore. We are praying that a weak from this Monday he can start practicing with the team again. He really wants to play in the Homecoming game on October 10th. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers. It was very hard for him tonight watching his teammates work for another win as he stood along the sidelines, helpless.

One more piece of exciting news!!! For any of you from this area you will understand when I say...WAY TO GO RIVERTON!!!! After a 56 game winning streak in SE Kansas, Colgan's Football team was defeated tonight by Riverton!!! Doh!! YOU ALL ARE THE BOMB! WAY TO GO!

LET THE COMPETITION BEGIN!

LET THE COMPETITION BEGIN! LET THE GLORY BE GOD'S!

Most of our life is centered around school, sports, and our boys. But overall GOD is THE center of all! One of the things we participate in is FCA, "Fellowship of Christian Athletes". This is one of the BEST extra-curricular activities my sons are currently a part of. I am helping with OHS' Huddle this year and having a great time!

FCA is the largest Christian sports organization in America! The vision of FCA is to see the world impacted for Jesus Christ through the influence of athletes. Their mission is to present to athletes and coaches, and all whom they influence, the challenge and adventure of knowing Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord! It's amazing to me that there are so many lost kids in the world. Kids who don't know who God is or that He sent his son, Jesus to die for our sins and that because of this our sins are forgiven.

We are blessed to have a strong bunch of teens in Oswego who want to share this very thing with others their age! I am constantly motivated by our kids and their love for Jesus Christ. It motivates me to live more "Christ-like" and share with others what I know. You know who I am talking about... thanks kids! You are my strong-hold!

A Little Bit Of This & A Little Bit Of That...

Not much going on in our neck of the woods. The Indians had their first home football game Friday night against Pleasanton. (Logan didn't play because of his torn MCL. I think he wore a path from pacing the sidelines though!) Both teams went into the evening with a 2-0 record. Oswego was hoping to be 3-0 by the close of the night. Unfortunately, it didn't turn out that way. However, the boys played hard and never gave up! For that we are proud!

There are no middle school games this week, however the high school has one Friday night against Sedan. Logan won't be playing yet and this is a HAVE to win game. Your prayers for the boys safety (we've had injuries every game!) and to beat Sedan would be awesome!

In other news... my puppy, M.J. got hit on Friday. I ran him to the vet and thank goodness he made it out alive! The gentleman that hit him, backed up, came down our street, pulled in the drive, and walked up to the door to apologize. He didn't get very far, as Logan's beagle, Oreo was being her ferocious little self and didn't let him by! But when the gentleman saw me he immediately started apologizing. I was in awe that he had taken time out of his day to show his remorse. M.J. stays in our fenced in back yard and somehow got out w/out us knowing. It was as much our fault as it was his. It was refreshing, however, to witness a genuine concern and remorse coming from this kind gentleman. It made me wonder...where all the people like him have gone and why aren't there more? It was nice to be reminded that in this crazy world we live in there are still a few "good men" out there!

Sunday, my niece, Cassa came to do her laundry! She goes to college in Joplin and it's only about 40 miles away. We all enjoyed the DALLAS vs. PACKERS game that night. Well, all but Cassa. She is a huge GB Packer fan! The rest of us are DALLAS COWBOY FANS BA-BAY!

That's about it for now. Off to face another day of dirt and grime in the ole Spore house!

HAPPY 16TH BIRTHDAY LOGAN!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY
ZACHARY LOGAN!

Zachary Logan Spore was born on 9-17-92 at 9:04 a.m. He weighed in at 8lbs. 15 1/2 oz. & measured 18 3/4" long. Sixteen years later and he's 5'10" & 185 lbs. (and still growing!) When Mark and I decided to start our family, I didn't take to heart when others would say, "Enjoy them while you can, they'll be gone before you know it!" Sixteen years later and I'm finally realizing how true that is..."if only"... There were times that being home with a five year old, three year old, and newborn were more then I thought I could handle. Now, I would take it all back in a heartbeat.

"If only... I had read "There's A Monster At The End of This Book" one more time, pushed him on the swing-set five more minutes, sang him "You Are My Sunshine" two more times before he drifted off to sleep, took time to cuddle more and clean less, play more and worry less.. If only..." We love you ZLS! Happy Birthday!!!

**FrIdAy NiGhT lIgHtS**

Believe it or not since our last blog, three football games were battled out, one long, worrisome night was spent in the hospital, swamp central was FINALLY mowed, $ was made subbing, a "Friday Night Lights" moment was had by all, $ was spent buckled and strapped down in an ambulance, and among other memorable events, a Science Website was created! A woman's work is NEVER done and I am LOVING every minute of it!!!

OMS FOOTBALL UPDATE:
Game 1: E-Rad (a.k.a. Spike, E-E, The Missle) played his opening middle school football game as starting quarterback on Monday, September 8th. It was a disappointing evening to say the least with Moran running over the Indians, 60-8. Ethan battled through out the evening to stay on top of not only the game, but his health. Released from the hospital a few short hours before the game, Ethan remained focus and determined to play. Unfortunately he ended 0-2 for the night. From kick off to the final sound of the buzzer, Mark was stuffing crackers and cheese, peanut butter, and Gatorade down him to keep his blood sugar stable. (He never did get above 60 the whole game.) He fought hard, but his body just couldn't keep up. Ethan had gone to the ER the day before with the flu virus. He was unable to keep anything down or to keep his blood sugars stable. He was severely dehydrated by the time we got to the ER and was diagnosed with, "Respiratory Alkalosis " They put him in the hospital to observe him overnight. This was the FIRST time in 10 years that he was hospitalized because of his diabetes and the stomach flu. We are very blessed! Needless to say, neither of us slept much that night.

Game 2: Oswego 14, Altamont 0. I am thrilled to say that Tuesday's OMS football game (9/16) was a success! E-Rad had a killer run and some decent passes. The team played MUCH better than the week before and looked like they were having a great time on the field! Next game, Monday, September 22nd.

OHS FOOTBALL UPDATE:
O-O-OSW-E-E-EGO, OSW-EGO, OOSSSSWWWEEEEGGOO!
INDIANS 2-0!!!!

Oswego High School's football team tamed the Erie Red Devils Friday night 14-9. Erie took the lead 9-8 with 27.7 seconds left in the game on a 22 yard field goal. Erie then short kicked the kickoff, giving Oswego good field position to use its passing game. Two plays later, and with 4.2 seconds left on the clock for the final snap, the quarterback hit the wide receiver for a 15 yard touchdown pass after time expired. It was the play of the century!

Too bad we had to miss it. That's right! MISS IT! As luck would have it, Logan was injured at the end of the third quarter. The EMT's were called on the field and after several minutes Coach Monroe started looking for Mark. Time passed and I was FINALLY motioned to the field. (It was about time too! I mean, a mom's place IS with her son!) They decided his right knee had been hurt somehow, someway, someplace. They strapped him down on the gurney and lead him off the field. The crowd was clapping and in the distance, the players stood in a huddle with their helmets raised high shouting out, "Don't you worry Logan! We got this! This one's for you!" It was at that very moment, that my heart filled with pride. In the end, the boys did JUST what they told Logan they'd do and pulled the game off with 27.7 seconds left on the clock. WE ARE ONE. WE ARE UNITED. WE ARE THE INDIANS. Friday night this became reality!
On the left is a pic of Logan as we're leaving the ER. To the right>>On our way out several kids and our youth minister stopped to see how Logan was and have prayer with him.

Are You Ready For Some Football???

This is one of my favorite times of the year...football! I am a sports mom fanatic! You'll be hearing a lot more sports updates in the weeks to come. There's nothing better then Friday night at the field!

Our OHS Indians kicked off their season Friday night w/ a win over Jayhawk-Linn (8-0). This is a BIG deal because for the past several years football in Oswego has been, well... comparable to Nebraska's record...not so good! The boys have taken a beating over & over, both physically & emotionally, but this year's team has more heart and "want" to succeed! "Order has been restored!" Watch out, here come the Indians! Check 'em out at www.usd504.org

Logan, a sophomore this year, is STARTING center on offense and STARTING linebacker on defense! We are VERY proud of him. He had a sweet "pick" during 3rd quarter, but didn't have enough momentum to keep it going. His next game is tomorrow night...update soon to come. This pic was taken after the game. "Dad's heart filled with pride!"

"Victory is won not in miles but in inches. Win a little now,

hold your ground, and later, win a little more."
Louis L'Amour

Family

Introducing.... "Our Crazy Family.... Past & Present"

Family...One of our strong holds in the crazy thing we call life! Enjoy some of my favorite family quotes below.

The family. We were a strange little band of characters trudging through life sharing diseases and toothpaste, coveting one another's desserts, hiding shampoo, borrowing money, locking each other out of our rooms, inflicting pain and kissing to heal it in the same instant, loving, laughing, defending, and trying to figure out the common thread that bound us all together. ~Erma Bombeck

You don't choose your family. They are God's gift to you, as you are to them. ~Desmond Tutu

"Home is the place where, when you have to go there, they have to take you in." --Robert Frost, “The Death of a Hired Man”

"My dad is the boss. . .until Grandma comes over. Then he’s just one of us."

"Once Upon A Time..."

... there were five dogs, three boys (two of which are teenagers), a man (who is known to leap tall buildings in a single bound), and a woman... all living in perfect harmony! Yeah, right.... show me a family that doesn't have a brawl in the middle of the kitchen floor at least once a day.... and... well, that's just not possible! SO....on with the show!

Welcome to The Spore families first blog! I'll be the main "blog-ee," (is there even such a thing?) but HOPE some of the other kin will join in time. Please be patient as this is a work in progress. Check back often and let us know who our fans are! Until then, take care and come back now.. ya hear?