tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83512340065898042542023-11-16T10:44:49.899-06:00Choosing The Narrow PathBreaking free from autism. Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.comBlogger58125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-4089551154660230842016-05-31T22:04:00.000-05:002016-05-31T22:04:01.864-05:00Italy<span style="color: purple;"><br /></span>
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<span style="color: black;">Today I passed a sign while creeping along in traffic. I bet I've passed it 30+ times but have never noticed it before. Not today, today it stood out to me so much that I took a picture and I knew instantly what it was. </span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">I've had an interesting few weeks with God recently particularly in regards to Lincoln and him being free from autism. He has been speaking some pretty cool things to my heart and I'm finally starting to pay attention again. It has been pretty incredible and encouraging to me in this season of life. </span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">It's been a journey and a long one at that, in just a short time; Lincoln's life. Specifically believing that we'd not have to be visiting Holland for long and having that longing for Italy fulfilled. Not sure what I'm talking about? You probably wouldn't unless you have a child with a disability. This is a poem that I read 5 years ago after Lincoln reveived an autism diagnosis;</span><br />
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="color: purple;">Welcome to Holland</span><br />
<span style="color: purple;">I am often asked to describe the experience of raising a child with a disability<br />- to try to help people who have not shared that unique experience to understand<br />it, to imagine how it would feel. It's like this......</span><br />
<span style="color: purple;"> </span><span style="color: purple;">When you're going to have a baby, it's like planning a fabulous vacation trip<br />- to Italy. You buy a bunch of guide books and make your wonderful plans.<br />The Coliseum. The Michelangelo David. The gondolas in Venice. You may learn<br />some handy phrases in Italian. It's all very exciting.</span><br />
<span style="color: purple;">After months of eager anticipation, the day finally arrives. You pack your bags<br />and off you go. Several hours later, the plane lands. The stewardess comes<br />in and says, "Welcome to Holland." "Holland?!?"<br />you say. "What do</span><span style="color: purple;"> you mean Holland?? I signed up for Italy! I'm supposed<br />to be in Italy. All my life I've dreamed of going to Italy."</span><br />
<span style="color: purple;">But there's been a change in the flight plan. They've landed in Holland and<br />there you must stay. The important thing is that they haven't taken you<br />to a horrible, disgusting, filthy place, full of pestilence, famine and<br />disease. It's just a different place.</span><br />
<span style="color: purple;">So you must go out and buy new guide books. And you must learn a whole new<br />language. And you will meet a whole new group of people you would never<br />have met.</span><br />
<span style="color: purple;">It's just a different place. It's slower-paced than Italy, less flashy than<br />Italy. But after you've been there for a while and you catch your breath,<br />you look around.... and you begin to notice that Holland has windmills....and<br />Holland has tulips. Holland even has Rembrandts.</span><br />
<span style="color: purple;">But everyone you know is busy coming and going from Italy... and they're all<br />bragging about what a wonderful time they had there. And for the rest of<br />your life, you will say "Yes, that's where I was supposed to go. That's<br />what I had planned."</span><br />
<span style="color: purple;">And the pain of that will never, ever, ever, ever go away... because the loss<br />of that dream is a very very significant loss.</span><br />
<span style="color: purple;">But...if you spend your life mourning the fact that you didn't get to Italy,<br />you may never be free to enjoy the very special, the very lovely things<br />... about Holland.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">I blogged here ( </span><a href="http://meandmyquad.blogspot.com/2012/10/leaving-holland.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: black;">CLICK HERE TO READ</span></a><span style="color: black;"> ) about how I truly felt about that poem. I felt like it was an acceptance of autism and staying there. Which is something I have never wanted. If you have followed my blog or we are friends on Facebook, then you know I'm very vocal about getting Lincoln free from autism. Mainly, whole-heartedly believing God is a good healing God like His Word says and that my little boy can be free. That we can figuratively enjoy Italy. And guys, he mostly IS free. 5 years ago from a classic autism diagnosis, non-verbal and the whole 9 yards, fast forward to today. Today he watched Airbud and cried his eyes out because the clown was mean to Buddy and he hated that. He even shut the TV off on everyone because his little heart and eyes and ears couldn't bear anymore. It was fantastic. Yes I said fantastic. I am happy my son cried and was heartbroken by a movie. Why? Because he chose empathy and understanding and it wasn't just a story for him to script. He didn't even script any of the movie. He actually watched and wasn't self-absorbed in his own world. And I cry on that exact same scene every time I watch that movie too and that makes my heart pretty happy. :)</span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">This is how our Lincoln has been here recently; normal, h<span style="color: black;">ealthy, happy, funny, loving and so many other things that I would describe him much like the way I would describe my other 2 typical children. </span><br />
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Not much Holland recently. <br />
<br /></span><span style="color: black;">I had actually forgotten about Holland and Italy until today. Until I passed by that beautiful sign; "Next Stop: Italy." Maybe it's just pasta to you, but the way God drew my attention to that sign today was just Heavenly reassurance that everything is going to be alright. Lincoln is going to be just fine and we are well on our way. I'm not saying I haven't waivered, but I am thankful that I have held tight to the assurance of God's Word believing for Linky's healing over the past 4 years. </span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">God speaks to us how He knows we will hear him and through our surroundings. Look for Him to speak to you. The Word says that "His sheep know his voice." Listen and trust Him. He is there guiding and encouraging you in whatever journey you are facing. </span><br />
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<span style="color: purple;"></span><br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-17213925548728201812015-01-13T23:06:00.001-06:002015-01-13T23:59:01.689-06:00Time The buzzing of clippers through each boy's hair is surprisingly calm as they sit in their individual chairs getting their hair cut. Too good to be true, I silently start counting, backwards, like it's a countdown; "10, 9 ,8, 7..." Yep, there it is. Calmness is gone. Linky begins squealing in frustration every time a hair falls onto his iPad. Nothing major, but enough that I quickly offer redirection to keep him focused. In between squeals, I try to answer the questions from the barber cutting Lucas' hair on why we choose to homeschool. I start to answer again and Maddi from her chair yells that her movie isn't working on the phone. I pause from answering to help her for a moment only to be interrupted by Linky's squeals again. Yep, not the time for questions, especially not serious ones, not today, no time. <br />
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Another day, we finally get loaded into the car after lots of rushing about and getting everyone dressed. Someone wants Orange juice, the other wants milk. Then someone starts crying. I yell out in frustration that we don't have time for this, no time for fighting or to go back in. I get on the road and call ahead to Mardel to ask them to leave a book at the counter for me, a quick stop in our rushed plans, so that if I find the time later, I can read. I'm desperate for some light shed, someone who has paved the way, some insight. I need this book. I've done this too many times. By calling ahead, we don't have to go through the store at all, just a quick jot through the doors with all 3 kids and we can checkout right where the book will be waiting. This will eliminate fussing and meltdowns and ultimately save; well, time. <br />
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We unload from the car and walk right though the door as I had planned. Only there is a lady in line at the desk where I usually retrieve my book very quickly. As we stand there, the kids remember there is a train table and toys and start begging to go over there. I can't, they can't, we just can't, I try to explain, not with the mood Linky is in. I pick up Linky in all of his 39 lbs at 5 years old. He's starting to get frustrated and wanting to wander. The lady in front of me keeps talking and I'm starting to sweat. I start silently counting again as I know Linky is about to lose it big time. <br />
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When this happens, I feel like the world is on pause. Like I am in the middle and everything starts to spin and go in slow motion. I'm panicking on the inside because I know how long it takes in situations like these before he freaks out and loses it, causing a scene. Nobody on the outside can see he has autism and nobody wants to speed their world up to accommodate the internal battle I have raging on the inside of me. He doesn't care about the looks or the time, he just wants what he wants and he wants it NOW! He starts yelling and tries to hit me and right about the time I am ready to say forget it, the line opens up to me. I step forward, clammy, red faced and teary-eyed, just ready to get out of there. I knew I shouldn't have came, should have waited until some other time. <br />
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He's in bed, or, so I think. The time is late and he starts beating on the door. I sigh heavily as I was just about to start reading that book. I get him what he needs and know that my time is limited as he won't go to sleep without me. Over time, his sleep cycle has always been a mess and it's one of the only ways he will go to sleep. I have Daniel lie down with him and I head back to the living room as he stands at the door screaming for me. <br />
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I plop down in a chair, tears in my eyes and I think about the time. It's late, I'm exhausted. Not from tonight, not just this time. But all of time, all of Linky's time. From a sick infant to a sleepless baby to a toddler with autism, fast forward to now, it's been a long 5 1/2 years. I feel like there is never time for anything. I work against time and time works against me, yet we go so far only to find that all of the time, we are still fighting the same battle. Where has the time gone? Do we still have time? I'm so utterly exhausted from waging war with time. <br />
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Time has been a thief and yet the thief has been time, stolen, right from us. When is that time that he, the enemy, will pay back for all he has stolen. How will all of this time be paid back to us? Measuring 4 years of autism against the backdrop time of eternity, leaves me feeling like this time has been but a speck in the bigger picture. In that, I start to remember how far Linky has come in such a "speck" of time. All sadness aside, his disposition has changed dramatically and for that I am grateful! I ponder these things until my heart hurts for Linky, focusing back on his cries at the door. I get out of my sad state and walk down the hall to him. <br />
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I scoop him up in my arms, cry a little more and silently promise him, that no matter how long the time takes, no matter how much time has been stolen, that I will never stop fighting for him. While hugging me so tightly, he gazes at me, tears in his eyes and says, "I always love you and hold you mom." My heart melts and I tell him that no matter how busy, I will always have time for moments like these. I know that in time when full manifestation of his healing arrives, he will look back and remember me as his courageous mom. He will remember me fighting for him, fighting for HIS time and that......THAT moment of his full healing is worth all the time in the world!<br />
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(No matter what time has been to us or how I view it, that "Greater is He that is in me than he who is living in the World" and that no matter what has been stolen by the enemy, God restores and HE is good, all the time. That's where I will continue to keep my focus because I just don't have time to think about the lesser. Continually in search of that abundant life on behalf of my son.)<br />
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John 10:10 "The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have <i>it</i> more abundantly."<br />
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Proverbs 6:31 "<span class="st">But if the thief is caught, he must pay back seven times what he stole..."</span><br />
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<span class="st"><span class="st">"I don't have time to maintain these regrets when I think about, how he loves us..." -<em>How He Loves Us. (video below)</em></span></span><br />
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</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-36654697945248753242015-01-09T00:45:00.001-06:002015-01-09T00:53:24.779-06:00Be careful What You Speak I try to be extremely careful with what I speak as I believe our words have power, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue" (Proverbs 18:21).I believe many things come and go by what we speak. For example; we have to "confess" with our mouth Jesus is Lord or in Mark 11:23, it says "If you will 'say' to this mountain....." There are many other scripture references to our speaking but I won't get into them all, I am just tying to lay a foundation for why I am careful with what I speak. <br />
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In the past 4 years, I have been very careful to not say "autistic." Obviously I am believing for healing and even though we have some symptoms in the natural that are obvious, I refuse to define and characterize my son as being "autistic." I have preferred to say, "He has autism." Honestly, I don't even like saying that but there are times you can't not say anything as people do need to understand certain things regarding your child (for a church class or whatever it may be.)<br />
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Anyway, tonight I happened to come across this;<br />
"Autism literally means 'aloneness' originating from the Greek word 'autos' meaning 'self.'" <br />
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Stopped. Me. Right. In. My. Tracks. <br />
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I am pretty sure from this moment forward, I hope to rid the word "autism" from my vocabulary. Maybe that seems strange, but I was instantly convicted about the confession I make over my son. Of all the extreme measures I take to keep him in a spirit filled environment and not say "autistic", it bothers me that I still choose to speak this around or over him. I am basically saying, "He has autism (aloneness)." Or "He struggles with autism (aloneness)." What a terrible thing to speak if I should be doing as the Word instructs me to do. Anyway I just wanted to share that with you guys in case it speaks to someone else. <br />
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I do tend to speak a lot of other things over him, I constantly tell him these things (and many more); <br />
You have the mind of Christ <br />
You are the head and not the tail, above only and not beneath<br />
Greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world. <br />
You are healed, set free, delivered and normal to function <br />
You are a big, strong, and intelligent boy<br />
Your mind is free<br />
You are redeemed from the curse of sickness<br />
You are whole<br />
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I also make Linky confess these over himself. Even a couple of years ago when he could speak; but only for the sake of ABC's, shapes, echolalia, etc. He didn't have conversations. If he wanted a snack or his iPad, I would say, "Ok say this, 'I have the mind of Christ." At first it was one word at a time. Then eventually, he could repeat it very quickly. I made him work for his food and wants with having to say scriptures. There's power in me speaking the Word over him but I can imagine there is a greater (combined) power with him confessing these things over himself, even if he doesn't understand them. he has changed tremendously since then. Went from a 2 year old little boy, nonverbal, with moderate to severe autism, "Classic autism" to at age 4 being diagnosed as having "High-functioning-autism" or classified as "autism-mild." He is now 5 1/2 and doing <strong><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">AMAZING</span></strong>. I believe these confessions of the Word have been one of THE most instrumental things we have chosen to do.<br />
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I will share this video (this was about a year ago) of him saying some of these "confessions."<br />
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Also, feel free to check this post out of some great scripture confessions to play over your kiddos. <a href="http://www.shejustbelieved.com/2012/11/healing-scriptural-confessions.html" target="_blank">Click HERE</a> As I have said before; I recorded myself onto a CD and play them over the kiddos as they sleep and occasionally even through out the day. <br />
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Also a great post from a Pastor who's son is healed of autism. He is actually where I found the scripture confessions when he posted their testimony. His name is John Nuzzo.<br />
<a href="http://www.shejustbelieved.com/2013/11/healed-from-autism-ryans-testimony.html" target="_blank">Click HERE to read this testimony. </a><br />
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"I know that if you have a little one who is acting out or having troubles or that is driving you up a wall, you need to 'leave' what has the bulk of your time and attention and go after that ONE. Make winning their heart a top priority. Don't wait." (Sarah Mae)<br />
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I am pretty sure those words leaped off the page and into my heart as I read them. My heart ached because I have the 1 that needs me to leave the 99. His heart isn't turned away from me YET, but it's definitely headed that direction if I don't start pursuing his heart with all of mine. <br />
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He's our precious first born. I'll never forget the day he made me a mom and I tell him that too. "You made me a mommy for the first time and it was the happiest day of my life." He grins at me, hugs me and tells me, "You're the best Mom ever." I always feel a twinge of guilt when he says this because I know I'm not. Nope, not even close.<br />
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They say kids are resilient and to that I would definitely have to agree. I think in hind sight I have used that to my advantage. My 1 has been the innocent bystander for the past 4 years while we fight the autism battle with his little brother. From his little face I can see the disappointment. I can see that he feels like his needs don't matter as much as his little brother's. I've made him feel like his struggles aren't as important, as if nothing compares to autism. <br />
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I have always said, "He's older, why can't he just be easier, more understanding?" I think I've been saying that since his little brother was born, when he was 2. Terrible. I know. If I'm being honest, I can easily recognize his look of defeat when he realizes he can't compete for my time or attention because I'm too busy with school or Facebook or whatever excuse I have at that moment. It's a look that comes too easily these days, fruit of the root for sure.<br />
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Somewhere along the way, I started buying him things as a trade off for my time. Just so I could do all of the things I "needed" to do. Or, I would take him to fun places and let him play while I sat reading or scrolling through all of my social media accounts. Terrible. I know. I guess I did (do) these things for him to fill the void of knowing that I wasn't giving him my full attention that he needed. I do this with myself too. Sometimes, it's just easier to be distracted with something meaningless and now I'm passing that behavior on to him. Terrible. I know. <br />
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He grew up so fast, too fast. All while I have been busy. Busy with school, autism, yelling, social media, impatience, annoyance and stress from life. The years have passed by more quickly than I had anticipated. <br />
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So, I'm quitting all the things that don't matter. Leaving the 99 things (and people) that distract me for the 1. I will make all of my children feel as if they are equal. I want them to feel like they independently matter; that I love all of the wonderful traits that they embody. I want him to feel like he matters. Because. He. Does. <br />
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Goodbye to so many things so I can go after the 1. <br />
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" I will say no to the outside world, so I can say yes to the people who are my world." <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfsYp9u-TFCGM7QGgeS1_TTLxAf9Hg2LqHgn30a4dVTkim8HcSGj6TxPolB2e1_vwxn2Ndulu7qzSuoUOyvltOpSP61tMHt3dqLf2tLlc3oKT8Ay_pmWJQsmfD1VWnUmc_SLvAreE3xQnC/s1600/the1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfsYp9u-TFCGM7QGgeS1_TTLxAf9Hg2LqHgn30a4dVTkim8HcSGj6TxPolB2e1_vwxn2Ndulu7qzSuoUOyvltOpSP61tMHt3dqLf2tLlc3oKT8Ay_pmWJQsmfD1VWnUmc_SLvAreE3xQnC/s1600/the1.jpg" height="640" width="504" /></a></div>
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<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-57688458813640957352015-01-01T22:08:00.001-06:002015-01-03T23:30:39.316-06:00It takes a Village to Raise a Child<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> Applause erupted all over the room as a fellow autism mom finished saying, "If there was a cure for autism, I would be heartbroken because I don't want my child to change, I think she is great just like she is." Applause from everyone but me, I imagine. I couldn't bring myself to clap. I instantly knew I was in the wrong place. I'd known it for a while but I just couldn't bring myself to break away for the sake of wanting to have a support group, someone who understood. In that moment, though; I knew, I had to move on. </span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> I love Linky like he is, like he has been and for who he will be. But, I believe the Bible, the infallible Word of God. The Word that tells me what Jesus died on the cross for more than just salvation. The Word that goes against what most people say, "God has a plan, There's a reason for this." For that reason, I have to keep myself guarded from unbelief and distraction from the healing (Healer) that I have set my hope and faith in. </span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Fast forward 6 months.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> We walked into a church we had known and visited frequently over the years. I felt at home in my spirit as this was a "Word of Faith" type church. (Our home church is a wonderful place and very good with Linky. Although, I wouldn't classify them as a faith believing church in regards to how I have studied the Word. So occasionally, it's nice to visit other churches that believe like we do in regards to healing.) I treasured the feeling of being surrounded by like minded believers as we fight this autism battle. I remembered Linky hadn't been there in a while so he would be in a different class than he had ever been in before when visiting. I found the teacher, logged my number in her phone, walked Linky to class with the group and explained some of the issues he currently had; particularly with waiting and following directions.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> The door opened to the large room with playground equipment and I spotted the ball pit. I was thrilled about the ball pit as I knew Linky would play the whole time and be great. He ran straight for the ball pit as I heard her announcing to all the children to line up and wait their turn. She told him to get in line and she said, "Ok, he's autistic so he doesn't have to wait, but everyone else does." My heart sank as soon as she said it. (Sidebar; I have hardly ever referred to Linky as "autistic." As most of my faith believing friends know, I feel strongly about what we confess and speak and thought I was in like minded company. I also believe in "people first" language. For example; "This is Linky, he loves to play in the ball pit and by the way he has autism.") I could tell she wasn't real compassionate and looked frustrated with Linky interrupting her system. </span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> I went ahead and made the long walk down the hallway back to the Sanctuary. I clutched my phone in my hand and prayed Linky would be ok. As soon as I sat in my seat, my phone rang. It couldn't have been more than 5 minutes. She told me that he wouldn't listen to anything she said and he wouldn't follow their rules and get out of the ball pit. So I walked back down there and the other lady opened the door carrying Linky as he was kicking and screaming. She apologized, told me the Devil was a liar and to keep the faith. I couldn't agree more. As wonderful as her heart was, it felt like rejection and I took it more along the lines of, "Keep the faith honey, bring him back when he is healed because until he works all his differences out, he isn't welcome. Oh and good luck!" </span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I often find myself in opposing situations like this. It feels like such a struggle. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">They say, "It takes a village to raise a child." Well, not in our experience. </span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> The "autism community "is amazing. They are accepting, helpful and encouraging. But for the most part, they believe that autism is just a part of who our kids are and why change it. My convictions tell me otherwise and we can't afford to go down the road. The trade offs aren't worth it. I have to be careful with the thoughts and comments I surround myself with in order to stay on course believing for Linky's healing that is promised to us. </span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> The "faith" church is amazing. I have learned so much about the Word and healing and who God really is. But, I have not found much acceptance there with Linky. They teach you all about spiritual warfare, the enemy and what God's nature really is but there doesn't seem to be any room to love him or us in the process as we walk this thing out.</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> So where does this leave our family? I respect the autism community, love their hearts and know they are helping families like ours every day. I love the "Word of Faith" churches that we have encountered and appreciate the teaching that has helped changed our world. We know what we believe in our heart of hearts and know that Linky is healed according to the Word of God. Somehow, that seamlessly bridges the gap for us.</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> So, we walk this out appreciating the help we have gotten from everywhere, but know that at the end of the day it is up to us partnering with God and being led by the Holy Spirit into all truth. In my experience, "It takes a village to raise a child" hasn't applied to us. It's been up to Daniel and I to stay the course and keep our house in order. It has been up to us to keep ours protected and walking a different path than everyone else seems to be walking.</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> Sometimes it is okay to be that strong house sitting off by itself, down the remote (narrow) path, just outside the village.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> Hindsight tells me, even today, I'd choose that path again. The rewards have been huge. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhkasTykbGYbBSs3ps_5hlkZuKA6lRmDc0A_mUZWdBb-CTk6H-Tdtdwjo03VfaS_ruUkJlJulhtg8t5NFCeXqJ55A2UAPxjw4ldLVCphbxsw2seaotR1hsfEGGbD6XPUGBPxGjCFfBI8C8/s1600/oldroad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhkasTykbGYbBSs3ps_5hlkZuKA6lRmDc0A_mUZWdBb-CTk6H-Tdtdwjo03VfaS_ruUkJlJulhtg8t5NFCeXqJ55A2UAPxjw4ldLVCphbxsw2seaotR1hsfEGGbD6XPUGBPxGjCFfBI8C8/s1600/oldroad.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #0066cc;"></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-18721723661791859502014-12-15T23:58:00.004-06:002014-12-15T23:59:32.325-06:00Healing ScripturesThese are some great scriptures to stand on when believing for healing!<br />
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<li><strong>Exodus 15:26:</strong> If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the Lord thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the Lord that healeth thee.</li>
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<li><strong>Exodus 23:25-26:</strong> And ye shall serve the Lord your God, and he shall bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee. There shall nothing cast their young, nor be barren, in thy land: the number of thy days I will fulfill.</li>
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<li><strong>Deuteronomy 7:14-15:</strong> Thou shalt be blessed above all people: there shall not be male or female barren among you, or among your cattle. And the Lord will take away from thee all sickness, and will put none of the evil diseases of Egypt, which thou knowest, upon thee; but will lay them upon all them that hate thee.</li>
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<li><strong>Deuteronomy 30:19-20:</strong> I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live: That thou mayest love the Lord thy God, and that thou mayest obey his voice, and that thou mayest cleave unto him: for he is thy life, and the length of thy days: that thou mayest dwell in the land which the Lord sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them.</li>
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<li><strong>1 Kings 8:56:</strong> Blessed be the Lord, that hath given rest unto his people Israel, according to all that he promised: there hath not failed one word of all his good promise, which he promised by the hand of Moses his servant.</li>
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<li><strong>Psalm 91:9-10, 14-16:</strong> Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation; there shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. With long life will I satisfy him, and show him my salvation.</li>
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<li><strong>Psalm 103:1-5:</strong> Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.</li>
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<li><strong>Psalm 107:17, 19-21:</strong> Fools because of their transgression, and because of their iniquities, are afflicted. Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and he saveth them out of their distresses. He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions. Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!</li>
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<li><strong>Psalm 118:17:</strong> I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the Lord.</li>
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<li><strong>Proverbs 4:20-24:</strong> My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh. Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. Put away from thee a froward mouth, and perverse lips put far from thee.</li>
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<li><strong>Isaiah 41:10:</strong> Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.</li>
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<li><strong>Isaiah 53:4-5:</strong> Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.</li>
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<li><strong>Jeremiah 1:12:</strong> Then said the Lord unto me, Thou hast well seen: for I will hasten my word to perform it.</li>
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<li><strong>Jeremiah 17:14:</strong> Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved: for thou art my praise.</li>
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<li><strong>Jeremiah 30:17:</strong> For I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of thy wounds, saith the Lord.</li>
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<li><strong>Joel 3:10:</strong> Beat your ploughshares into swords, and your pruning hooks into spears: let the weak say, I am strong.</li>
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<li><strong>Nahum 1:9:</strong> What do ye imagine against the Lord? he will make an utter end: affliction shall not rise up the second time.</li>
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<li><strong>Matthew 8:2-3:</strong> And, behold, there came a leper and worshipped him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. And Jesus put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will; be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed.</li>
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<li><strong>Matthew 8:16-17:</strong> When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.</li>
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<li><strong>Matthew 15:30-31:</strong> And great multitudes came unto him, having with them those that were lame, blind, dumb, maimed, and many others, and cast them down at Jesus' feet; and he healed them: insomuch that the multitude wondered, when they saw the dumb to speak, the maimed to be whole, the lame to walk, and the blind to see: and they glorified the God of Israel.</li>
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<li><strong>Matthew 18:18-19:</strong> Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.</li>
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<li><strong>Matthew 21:21-22:</strong> Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done. And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.</li>
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<li><strong>Mark 9:23:</strong> Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.</li>
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<li><strong>Mark 10:27:</strong> And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.</li>
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<li><strong>Mark 11:22-24:</strong> And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God. For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith. Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.</li>
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<li><strong>Mark 16:14-18:</strong> Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen. And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.</li>
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<li><strong>Luke 6:19:</strong> And the whole multitude sought to touch him: for there went virtue out of him, and healed them all.</li>
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<li><strong>Luke 9:2:</strong> And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick.</li>
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<li><strong>Luke 13:16:</strong> And ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan hath bound, lo, these eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the sabbath day?</li>
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<li><strong>Acts 5:16:</strong> There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one.</li>
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<li><strong>Acts 10:38:</strong> How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.</li>
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<li><strong>Romans 4:16-21:</strong> Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all, (as it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were. Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be. And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sarah's womb: He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; and being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.</li>
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<li><strong>Romans 8:2, 11:</strong> For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.</li>
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<li><strong>2 Corinthians 4:18:</strong> While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.</li>
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<li><strong>2 Corinthians 10:3-5:</strong> For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.</li>
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<li><strong>Galatians 3:13-14, 29:</strong> Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: that the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.</li>
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<li><strong>Ephesians 6:10-17:</strong> Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.</li>
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<li><strong>Philippians 2:13:</strong> [Not in your own strength] for it is God Who is all the while effectually at work in you [energizing and creating in you the power and desire], both to will and to work for His good pleasure and satisfaction and delight.</li>
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<li><strong>Philippians 4:6-9:</strong> Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. And God's peace [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. For the rest, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of reverence and is honorable and seemly, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely and lovable, whatever is kind and winsome and gracious, if there is any virtue and excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think on and weigh and take account of these things [fix your minds on them]. Practice what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and model your way of living on it, and the God of peace (of untroubled, undisturbed well-being) will be with you.</li>
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<li><strong>2 Timothy 1:7:</strong> For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.</li>
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<li><strong>Hebrews 10:23:</strong> Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised).</li>
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<li><strong>Hebrews 10:35-36:</strong> Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.</li>
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<li><strong>Hebrews 11:11:</strong> Through faith also Sarah herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised.</li>
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<li><strong>Hebrews 13:8:</strong> Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and for ever.</li>
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<li><strong>James 4:7:</strong> Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.</li>
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<li><strong>James 5:14-16:</strong> Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.</li>
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<li><strong>1 Peter 2:24:</strong> Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.</li>
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<li><strong>1 John 3:21-22:</strong> Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God. And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.</li>
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<li><strong>1 John 5:14-15:</strong> And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.</li>
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<li><strong>3 John 2:</strong> Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.</li>
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<a href="http://www.kcm.org/real-help/resources/faith-building-healing-scriptures">http://www.kcm.org/real-help/resources/faith-building-healing-scriptures</a> (They can be found at this link as well as many other great resources).</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-61747336337276979622014-12-10T23:31:00.003-06:002014-12-10T23:32:12.014-06:00At the Movies and Other Updates<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed">
I am terrible about blogging here lately. I feel like I never know what to write about. Pretty much the only things I write about are how sweet my family is and how much progress Linky is making. I convince myself people are tired of hearing about it an decide not to write all. Then I think about how far we have come, how good God is and how DESPERATE I was to hear of God's goodness and healing early on when I found out Linky had autism. That is enough for me to keep writing. People need hope, faith and someone pointing them toward Jesus. I hope I encourage people to never give up and always believe that God heals and sets free and he is GOOD. So, on that note here are some awesome recent updates on how Linky is doing. These are things I have shared on my Facebook page, so I just copied and pasted them here. I will "try" to throw down a legitimate blog here in the next few days!<br />
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Recent posts:<br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;">Today Maddi and Linky were playing in their room. Not realizing the TV was paused and not really expecting an answer,</span><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;">I casually said, " Linky, what is wrong with the TV?"</span><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;">He immediately said, "Nothing is wrong with the TV Mom, I just pressed the 'stop TV button!'" </span></div>
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<span style="color: #4c1130;">I am pretty sure I about fell over. If you don't know much about autism, you probably think most of my posts are odd, because the things Linky is doing seem normal, what's the big deal right? I can tell you, tha<span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span><span class="text_exposed_show">t the hardest thing for Lincoln recently, has been answering questions. I am sure it has something to do with communication and the way he processes information. But, it has been difficult at times for him. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #4c1130;">I can pick apart that 1 statement he made and tell you so many amazing things that he just did that are flat out AMAZING Simple things that are normal to the everyday person in their communication, that have not been normal to Linky. This ROCKS! </span><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;">My little boy is walking out his healing every single day and everyday he gets better and better. We don't claim regression here, we just expect Linky to move forward as he always have. I am amazed how far he has come and it is truly the most miraculous thing I have ever witnessed. I'll never quit giving praise for this! Thank you Jesus.</span> </div>
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Just poked my head in Linky's room and said, "You ok buddy?" He said, "Yeah I fine Mom, now go get me some food!" Ha! Who does he think he is?!<br />
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<span style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: #4c1130;">At the movies with my 2 favorite little guys. Linky's first movie! Seriously we've come so far! So proud of him! He just got very excited and said, "I love going to the movies!" Lucas gave him the movie pep talk about listening and sitting on the way over in the car. Super big brother he is!</span><a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/success?source=feed_text&story_id=10152806333310751"><span aria-label="hashtag" class="_58cl" style="background-color: #4c1130;"></span></a><span class="_58cm" style="background-color: #4c1130;"></span><br />
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My little bed-headed fella up writing his name like it's no big deal. Followed by, "Mom, is it Sunday?" <a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/hismindisfree?source=feed_text&story_id=10152803960320751"><span class="_58cm"></span></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-51358496143529510782014-10-16T09:49:00.002-05:002014-10-22T21:26:41.579-05:00Progress update for LinkyProgress Update for Lincoln <br />
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">There is an evaluation system called the ATEC to gauge how treatments are working and the level of severity of autism your child has. A score over 104 (90th percentile) is considered severely autistic. A score Under 30 is considered to be mild autism and is in the lowest percentile (10th). If their score gets to be under 10, they are usually considered "recovered" and indistinguishable<span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span><span class="text_exposed_show"> from their peers. The goal is 0.</span></span></div>
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><a href="http://meandmyquad.blogspot.com/2013/05/all-things-lincoln.html">Click HERE to read more about this evaluation and tool. </a></span></span></div>
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">I have been using tis since April 2012 and love tracking his progress. Check out today's score!<br /><br /> APRIL 2012- 82 (80th percentile)<br /> Aug 2012- 61 (50th percentile)<br /> May 2013- 35 (20th percentile)<br />Dec 2013- 28 (10th percentile)</span></span></div>
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">(Today) Oct 2014- <strong> <span style="color: #e06666;"> 18</span></strong> SERIOUSLY, 18!!<br /><br /> Linky went from severe autism to having mild autism. His original score was 82 and that was after a year of being in an ABA program for 15-17 hours a week. For us, Lincoln got better after being removed from the program. I believe his score would have been much higher when we first knew he had autism (April 2011) but I didn't know about this tool to gauge that. <br /><br /> The goal is a score of ZERO! God is able. We have been standing believing God's Word that Lincoln is healed. We are watching it come to pass. So very thankful and happy! We still have some things to get worked out and he still has a ways to go. ...but man he's come so far!</span></span></div>
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">Why do I use this tool? Because it is always so cool to see laid out on paper what I see everyday before my very eyes. I believe this is very effective. When I took it in Dec. 2013, I knew that meant Lincoln had moved to High functioning autism. When I took him back to his Neuro-Psychologist. in January, his diagnosis changed to mild autism and he said Lincoln was high-functioning. So, I do believe it to be pretty spot on. :)</span></span></div>
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#JOYishere <span style="color: #4b3aae;">#</span>#Godisstillinthehealingbusiness <span style="color: #4b3aae;">#healed #redeemed #kickinautismbooty</span></div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-12296053095774959782014-09-03T23:36:00.001-05:002014-09-03T23:37:36.253-05:00More Autism TestimoniesI like to share testimonies, particularly of those who are beating autism! I believe they are "faith builders" and help keep us encouraged. God is nor respecter of persons. that means what He will do for one, He WILL (Has already done) do for another! Please be encouraged by these!<br />
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Here is one from an amazing mama, (Ashley Blair Hill) check out her book she wrote!<br />
<a href="https://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-63063-563-3">https://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-63063-563-3</a><br />
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Here is another one from Gina and Brian Walden;<br />
<a href="http://www.mountain-news.com/mountain_living/article_9840ece2-b640-11e1-994f-0019bb2963f4.html">http://www.mountain-news.com/mountain_living/article_9840ece2-b640-11e1-994f-0019bb2963f4.html</a><br />
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They just did an Autism Conference at their church called a "Brand New Day." The lady above (Ashley) was one of the speakers at the conference. You can purchase their book at the following link.<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Brand-New-Brian-Gina-Walden/dp/1618626183/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409805058&sr=8-1&keywords=gina+walden">http://www.amazon.com/Brand-New-Brian-Gina-Walden/dp/1618626183/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409805058&sr=8-1&keywords=gina+walden</a><br />
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Watch part of their testimony here......<br />
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Enjoy! God is good, healing is ours!</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-4319966422193175472014-09-02T09:38:00.001-05:002014-09-03T07:56:26.925-05:00A Blog I Love....So, I was scrolling recently through some blogs and found one that I LOVE. I felt like I was reading my own words. I will paste the contents below and put the link below that.<br />
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"If you are believing for your child/children to be healed from autism, let me encourage you today. God is always willing and able to heal autism. Jesus walked the earth <em>healing every kind of sickness and disease.</em> Every kind. That includes autism! He healed every person that went to him for healing (Matt 8:16) Every name under heaven has been placed under the Name of JESUS! Autism has a name; therefore it must bow down to the Name of Jesus!<br />
People can believe for healing from cancer, diabetes, arthritis, etc, but they seem to lack faith for healing from autism. The world will tell you that autism is a blessing – that it will teach you something. Parents of children with autism will say they would not have their child any other way. They will use cliche slogans such as “different, not less” to describe autism. That is how the world thinks; it is not how God thinks. If you accept autism as a part of your family’s life, you will lose faith for anything to change. That is what the enemy wants you to think.<br />
I love my children unconditionally, without question! But autism robs them of the abundant life that Jesus came to give them; the life that I want for them. It is because I love them so much that I long to see them healed. Jesus loves them so much, that He died on a cross and bore that autism for them, so they can be healthy and whole (Isaiah 53:5). I acknowledge that my children have autism; I do not accept that autism belongs to them. I like to say that I “acknowledge” the autism and I “accept” the child. I don’t have to accept autism when I can believe for the gift of healing to be received for my kids.<br />
Becoming autism aware has taught me so very much and God has taught me so much more throughout this journey, and He continues to do so. I am thankful for what I have learned, but I am most thankful that God is faithful and that very soon, my children will be free from autism. They are the <em>seed of the righteous and they shall be delivered</em>.<br />
Think about the woman with the issue of blood from Mark 5. She had radical faith! According to the law at that time, a bleeding woman was not allowed to travel out in public or touch anyone due to being “unclean”, but she pushed through the crowd to touch Jesus’ garment, because she knew and trusted God’s Word! She believed first, acted in faith, then received her healing. Believing for healing from autism takes radical faith, but take heart; we have a radical God! Be encouraged by the knowledge that God is pleased with your faith! Keep spending time in His presence, keep claiming His promises and speaking out in faith – Our God is faithful! Be assured that your best days are ahead – don’t give up on your miracle! Don’t worry about what the world says – focus on what God says! Jesus told us “It is finished!” (John 19:30) He did it all; all we need to do is keep believing."<br />
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<a href="http://tellofhisgoodness.wordpress.com/?s=autism&submit=Go">CLICK HERE TO VIEW BLOG.</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-11669955454486798842014-08-02T09:51:00.003-05:002014-09-02T09:47:38.128-05:00Yesterday Was A Great Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Linky, Maddi and Lucas. <br />
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Yesterday was a great day.<br />
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We went to the park. Behind the park was a big pond and walking path. As soon as we stepped out of the car, Lincoln decided he had no interest in the playground, he wanted to walk around the pond. He grabbed my hand and off we went with the other 2 in tow. They grabbed sticks, had races, and Linky talked about all the sharks that were in that pond. So, Lucas set him straight that sharks don't live in ponds. He said, "OH, ok Lucas!" He loves his brother and all things that Lucas guides him in. I truly believe he understands and takes it in too. I love watching these 3 babies (they're not babies) blossom and grow together. I love watching them teach each other and play together. I truly believe that Lincoln having sibling pulls him along and helps him in so many ways.<br />
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When we took the above picture, I said, "C'mon guys please sit down with your sticks and let Mommy take your picture!" They were resistant and then Linky sat down first and said, "Aw Ok Mom!" Then they all sat, "Yelled high yah" (sp?) and smiled for the camera. I remember when Linky would not ever set still for a picture, let alone initiate it!<br />
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My night ended last night laying down with Lincoln. He said, "Oh, I'm scared!" I asked, "What are you scared of Linky?" He replied, "Big scary Monster!" So, I said, "Okay Linky, let's pray!" I said the following and he repeated EVERY word with great enthusiasm.<br />
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"God, you did not give me a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind. Thank you that I don't have to be afraid. I thank you that your Word says that the angel of the Lord encamps around me and delivers me from every evil work. I thank you that I have the mind of Christ, I'm set free, I'm delivered, I'm healed, thank you Jesus for healing me. I love you!"<br />
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When we were done, he hugged me and said, "Oh, I LOVE YOU, I not scared Mommy!" <br />
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How awesome is that!? My son is becoming more and more free from autism every single day and I can't even explain how happy that makes me. God is good. <br />
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Yesterday was really a great day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXXK4ck33Te1flh01ZrcduAXevlRUdqb31JvuhHZknUPsuJWSDTaBnnrW6Zjjxc-nUT5aodXRq1bcjAj1lmkW3byvx7O4Q5ektIpjKdxph5yKi0CXxO1qolsLbZkeZlexCRQ2piGUYEJ9F/s1600/park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXXK4ck33Te1flh01ZrcduAXevlRUdqb31JvuhHZknUPsuJWSDTaBnnrW6Zjjxc-nUT5aodXRq1bcjAj1lmkW3byvx7O4Q5ektIpjKdxph5yKi0CXxO1qolsLbZkeZlexCRQ2piGUYEJ9F/s1600/park.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-71713458592668028882014-07-22T14:49:00.005-05:002014-07-22T14:53:03.924-05:00Superheroes
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Sometimes real superheroes live in the hearts of small children
fighting big battles.”</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl5HsAPYzb9VMYusef4vSVqqUgJEOeEvpjvoqpANej4__3JSSbdCdPTDQB8SFT7if5TV5cowq4F0Sk-DgupL-yjklEBfvnUYekQlg6eCSH32kSl8a_e2oe__K7z-fJgjPQkOA7M8OvOzNA/s1600/hero.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl5HsAPYzb9VMYusef4vSVqqUgJEOeEvpjvoqpANej4__3JSSbdCdPTDQB8SFT7if5TV5cowq4F0Sk-DgupL-yjklEBfvnUYekQlg6eCSH32kSl8a_e2oe__K7z-fJgjPQkOA7M8OvOzNA/s1600/hero.jpg" height="259" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></b> </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This describes many kiddos I know fighting the autism
battle. However, I think the kids that are often overlooked are the brothers
and sisters. They are superheroes too. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It was 4am probably a year ago. 2 of our kiddos were sick and
in bed with me and I hadn’t slept a wink. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dad had just left to work his second job
supporting our family. Right as they started to doze off, the door opened and
in popped my 6 year old. Everyone stirred and he asked to lay with us. Being
tired, I was very short with him and told him yes but to hurry up so everyone
didn’t wake up. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Lucas having his own set of struggles to deal with aside from
his brother who falls on the opposite end of the spectrum, tonight was one of
the nights where I just didn’t have it in me to respond the appropriate organized
way that he needed. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t answer him
the right way and it hurt his feelings and he started to leave. Not wanting him
to wake them, I harshly told him to just get in bed. He climbed into bed angry and
mentally stuck on my response. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">He then started fidgeting and getting increasingly agitated
at his sister for being in his way almost waking her again. After I had about
all I could handle, I impatiently said, “Lucas just go to bed, there’s no room
in here for you!” My words pierced through the air even as I had just said
them, I wished I could take them back. I knew that what I said, was more indicative
of how Lucas had to feel as a whole compared to just the moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I immediately apologized to him and made room
for him, hugging him for the next while telling him how awesome and important
he was. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I admit, it’s easy to overlook the one that is (much) higher
functioning because you see so many severe needs that need taken care of with
your other child. These other kiddos miss out on so much. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has been a balancing act and one that I
have to consciously work on and make an effort in. I truly have to think
differently for each child and some days I feel like I fail miserably. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Yet, today even as my heart is aching and I am writing this,
I can’t help but be reminded what a superhero Lucas is despite his own
challenges. Somewhere outside the realm of normal sibling rivalry and family
struggles, I hope we must be doing something right. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-I hear him in the room with Lincoln playing the Wii.
Lincoln yells, “Help Lucas!” Lucas carefully helps him and tells him what
buttons to push to navigate through the game.” Then they begin giggling and
cheering each other on. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>20 months apart
in age, different ends of the spectrum but so close in heart.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-I think how Lincoln sings his favorite nursery rhymes
repeatedly all day. Lucas never missing a beat, joins in to “5 Little Monkeys
Jumping on the Bed” singing and jumping on the bed right next to Lincoln. Lincoln
notices and smiles welcoming Lucas. He tries so hard to be a part of Lincoln’s
interests.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">- I think of how Lucas and I sometimes join in on Lincoln’s
movie scripts repeating the lines that we have heard hundreds of times. We catch
each other doing it and smile. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-I think of his own rigidness, love of structure and
schedules and aversion to certain noises and smells that I struggle to always
understand especially in the midst of Lincoln having a bigger fit. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-I think how many times we have had to cut an event short
because Lincoln isn’t handling it so well. From store trips to birthday parties
and so many other things, I picture Lucas’ little heartbroken face in the
rearview mirror trying to understand. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-I think of him when he reminds me, “Remember when Lincoln
didn’t talk Mom and how God has healed him.” So confident and true child-like
faith.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-I think of him praying for his brother on his own that “God
would make his brain whole and help Lincoln.” I think of him confessing
scripture over himself and Lincoln and not afraid to tell anyone that the Bible
says God is our healer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-I think that even though he has missed out on so much, the
strong belief and Faith in God that we have instilled into him will carry him
through this life and set him on a solid foundation to face any of life’s battles
and challenges.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I think of so many things and I am gratefully reminded, that
despite all of my shortcomings, despite his own struggles; “Sometimes real
superheroes live in the hearts of small children fighting big battles.”</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPOgoJY6TtnHD_KQ0wrFqQKYADeYlAc1hz8VzKuCohtkrxYrcsVpCAe9L1B-C2Deya3vfgMWZug19vaCSi3cnSN-OBMTbHDRg6pNWxnrkaKzqJx_wIfzltwPrIIsqYWNJvG6j-tmDlsk4E/s1600/us.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPOgoJY6TtnHD_KQ0wrFqQKYADeYlAc1hz8VzKuCohtkrxYrcsVpCAe9L1B-C2Deya3vfgMWZug19vaCSi3cnSN-OBMTbHDRg6pNWxnrkaKzqJx_wIfzltwPrIIsqYWNJvG6j-tmDlsk4E/s1600/us.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p>----------------------------------------Me, Lincoln (age 5), Lucas (age 6)-------------------------------------------------</o:p></span></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-43024722742583195382014-07-19T23:41:00.001-05:002014-07-23T02:50:34.450-05:00The Fight of your LifeIt's the fight of your life<br />
Every. Single. Day.<br />
You've tasted victory<br />
It tastes so good<br />
Just when you think it's over<br />
It's not<br />
Not YET<br />
This is the hardest part<br />
Pressure everywhere<br />
You want to turn to where it's easy<br />
To the people that have it easy<br />
Appearances are deceiving<br />
Satan is deceiving<br />
He's sneaky like that<br />
Well laid plans and such<br />
Easy won't get you the victory you want<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Keep hanging on<br />
Hope isn't hard until it's hard<br />
It's easier to accept<br />
To embody the movement<br />
To have community<br />
To quit fighting <br />
But then you never really quit fighting<br />
You just start fighting the wrong battle<br />
It's a distraction<br />
It's tempting<br />
You know, well laid plans and such<br />
Keep fighting <br />
Keep focused<br />
Keep your mind clear<br />
Thoughts come in<br />
Telling you nobody understands<br />
Who cares<br />
God gets it<br />
You'll taste the victory<br />
You've got someone counting on you<br />
No, Depending on you<br />
Keep fighting<br />
<br />
<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/xhFlQyRGymw?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-82274633803853040192014-02-23T17:24:00.000-06:002014-02-23T17:24:03.934-06:00Dress Up And Pictures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-GxWT2Wt_RccRJ0RRtcm4tdZbFoMqX-w73WLqyjVdOwVrTIppwwhgQXkT_cYJKwKdWWG7Io9CikOe2VGw9Ps9dI7jnLVqh7uDGo2NBPgN_doHtUrQTqEtx3kiVfUrnTmp4oTvMXwjEosB/s1600/1234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-GxWT2Wt_RccRJ0RRtcm4tdZbFoMqX-w73WLqyjVdOwVrTIppwwhgQXkT_cYJKwKdWWG7Io9CikOe2VGw9Ps9dI7jnLVqh7uDGo2NBPgN_doHtUrQTqEtx3kiVfUrnTmp4oTvMXwjEosB/s1600/1234.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We spent the morning playing dress up. Maddi was in an
Easter dress with a matching purse and a lot of pink eye shadow; her request.
When Lincoln saw her, he began addressing her as “Princess” or “Princess
Maddi.” He was pretty smitten with his sister as she twirled around in her
dress. “Oh Princess, you dropped your purse,” he said and would pick it up for
her. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-hBHrYu-z84XOS0TlWSJmtFfYjXcHL1yyPD2sZuWpTLemtzi_-DoPeeB0cNrtMmzSIOGaz9iLLV4tSmkNqe9IPwwv1G_xQlpQ5R7XEXt36Yyo3OBdGDOeCHW9KFpTIjhvU2SbCDHSFjg5/s1600/123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-hBHrYu-z84XOS0TlWSJmtFfYjXcHL1yyPD2sZuWpTLemtzi_-DoPeeB0cNrtMmzSIOGaz9iLLV4tSmkNqe9IPwwv1G_xQlpQ5R7XEXt36Yyo3OBdGDOeCHW9KFpTIjhvU2SbCDHSFjg5/s1600/123.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Seeing his delight in his sister dressing up, I quickly
grabbed a few things for him to put on; a dress shirt and pants, his sister’s Hello
Kitty tie and his beloved Fedora hat. Then I asked them to take a picture for
me. To my amazement….HE DID! He stood at the door with Maddi doing everything I
asked. “Hug Sissy” or “Give Sissy a kiss,” I would say. He would immediately do
it and then wait for my next instruction. When finished he would ask to see the
photos and he would smile looking at them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4qSxVtbfd092QiILNwQgdrlAtJsjFRAa2-ZZec8rpyoxXJKZHqfL56GT2fk2Qw9DL4G9YhzLfv9kCDfgaRYyy5mX9eNe2pExHDD3fBNYEWc8hDiJwBtAjPiyhLDi4wYcKNUjzcFe-5OB/s1600/family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4qSxVtbfd092QiILNwQgdrlAtJsjFRAa2-ZZec8rpyoxXJKZHqfL56GT2fk2Qw9DL4G9YhzLfv9kCDfgaRYyy5mX9eNe2pExHDD3fBNYEWc8hDiJwBtAjPiyhLDi4wYcKNUjzcFe-5OB/s1600/family.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I remember right before he turned 2, we wanted to take a
quick family photo while family was all in town. All of the other kids present
followed instructions and would smile and say, “Cheese” at the appropriate
time. Not Lincoln. He just wanted to play in the rocks counting them. We
actually had to move rocks to where he was sitting so he would stay in the
picture. That was our “Thinking Differently” at that time. I have a copy of
that picture and every time I have looked at it, it makes me sad. He was there
but he wasn’t really there. He was more like a prop that had been placed in the
photo. He was trapped in his own little rock counting world and that was where
he wanted to stay. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So today, I have been elated to see his love for dress up
and pictures. I am not holding him down on my lap or trying to distract him
with a lollipop or an iPad to get him to pose appropriately in these pictures.
I am just taking his lead and loving every minute of it. So thankful for his
growth, awareness and interest in being a part of our world. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Vth-YSOpyj4Jbtl5l6sDwwYMaL1XHdpMxVCbobVLU7UpsybrScLkA4zpPHaFbqAXjnM2KxqNgm3x8pYUsFMFNhHxlvLrge4_JDRijFWTFQRxRODydXdu9S8G9BwV6jJHhIpxSj8yl6tc/s1600/thinkdiff2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Vth-YSOpyj4Jbtl5l6sDwwYMaL1XHdpMxVCbobVLU7UpsybrScLkA4zpPHaFbqAXjnM2KxqNgm3x8pYUsFMFNhHxlvLrge4_JDRijFWTFQRxRODydXdu9S8G9BwV6jJHhIpxSj8yl6tc/s1600/thinkdiff2.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">As if the moment couldn’t have been any better. Lincoln held
out his hand and said, “Can I take a picture please?” I told him of course and
handed him my phone. He told Maddi, “Hug your Mommy Maddi, say cheese!” We did
as he instructed and he smiled as he looked at his photography skills. This
will forever be one of my favorite pictures. I am so thankful for the little
surprises Lincoln is full of everyday as he blossoms. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-56334064224165886982014-02-23T00:42:00.001-06:002014-02-23T00:42:27.436-06:00Random Updates I am GREAT at posting updates of Lincoln's progress on my FB. However, I forget to do it here. So I am simply going to copy some things and post them here. They are just too awesome not to share. <br />
<br />
<strong><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: #20124d;">January 21, 2014</span></strong><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Just spent 15 minutes in the bathroom with Lincoln. His request; pottying, fixing hair, meticulously brushing his teeth. My favorite part, when he asked me to hold him up in front of the mirror, he checks his teeth and hair and smiles at himself. So proud of his self-care skills. I remember not too long ago thinking I might need to get him occupational therapy if he didn't progress. He did though, literally out of no where and in abundance. Incredibly thankful on this Journey. More progress to come. Loving this season! <a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/kickinautismbooty">#kickinautismbooty</a><br />James1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.</span><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"></span><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"></span><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><strong><span style="color: #20124d;">January 24, 2014</span></strong></span><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" id="id_530994194dce55c44596428">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Big deal today for Linky! Did some work for Daniel today in Wellston America and I had Linky and Maddi with me. My phone was dying and I didn't have a charger and Maddi had just fallen asleep. So I spotted a Dollar General store to buy a charger. I had no stroller and there were no carts once I got in there. Lincoln used to run off, not listen and be distracted by odd things...so carts or strolle<span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span><span class="text_exposed_show">rs have been a MUST in the past. So, I just rolled with it, carried Maddi and let Linky walk. He walked all the way through the store with me while I looked and did great even while having to wait in line. He said hello to everyone in the store. He picked out lollipops for Maddi and himself and was so well behaved. Then we walked to the car and he got in his seat on his own! Did I mention that we were in the car for 4+ hours and he had no potty accidents. 5 minutes before we got home, he told me he needed to go. SUPER DAY! He was like a NORMAL little 4 year old and I am so proud of him. He has came so far and is a completely different kid. Thank you Jesus! <a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/kickinautismbooty">#kickinautismbooty</a> <a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/healed">#healed</a> <a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/hismindisfree">#hismindisfree</a></span></span></div>
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><strong><span style="color: #20124d;">January 16, 2014</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Well, we had Lincoln's re - evaluation today. We still have to go back to finish some testing. However, He commented that Lincoln is a "completely different kid" from 2 years ago when he diagnosed him. He indicated three different times that Lincoln was "high - functioning!" High functioning autism is HUGE compared to where we were 2 years ago with Lincoln being severely impacted by autism. This <span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span><span class="text_exposed_show">is such good news. Things can only go up from here. I am so thankful for the progress Lincoln has made. I still hold on to my faith and believing Linky will lose his diagnosis in the future. For now this is amazing and even with Linky still having some areas needing help, I am even more assured that we are on the right path. Thank you Jesus! Feeling very blessed! </span></span></div>
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">We actually have gotten his results for his evaluation. See <a href="http://meandmyquad.blogspot.com/2014/02/update-from-dr-who-diagnosed-lincoln-2.html">Here</a>.</span></span></div>
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><strong><span style="color: #20124d;">February 20. 2014</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Maddi and Linky were asleep in the same bed at opposite ends. I heard talking and laughing and went in there and they were snuggled up next to each other laughing and talking about who knows what. They both said, "Good Morning Mom!" Maddi hugged Linky and told him, "Love you Bu." Then Linky kissed me. LOVE these kiddos. So happy about how well linky is doing. Sweetest way to start out the morning. Now Linky is pulling on my arm saying, "let's go to sleep mom." So lying here as he reads me "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom." <a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/lovethatlittleguy">#lovethatlittleguy</a> <a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/kickinautismbooty">#kickinautismbooty</a></span></span></span></div>
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</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-23635394086698668202014-02-23T00:27:00.000-06:002014-02-23T00:27:24.593-06:00Update from the Dr. who diagnosed lincoln 2 1/2 years ago. <div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">This is an update I posted on my FB February 4th after we had Lincoln re-evaluated with the NeuroPsychologist that diagnosed him with Classic Autism just 6 days before he turned 2. He is now 4 1/2. </span></div>
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">"Want to hear some awesome Lincoln news?? Over the past month we have had Lincoln re-evaluated for his autism diagnosis. I told y'all last time, that his NeuroPsychologist who originally diagnosed him with Classic Autism and considered him to be "severe" in level of functionality, now believes Lincoln has "high functioning autism." Well today, Daniel and I sat down with the Dr. and went over all of<span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span><span class="text_exposed_show"> Lincoln's testing and talked about it. The first thing he said was , "Well I know you will be excited to learn of Lincoln's IQ score so let's get straight to that." <br /><br /> To give you a little bit of background in regards to Autism I will quote a source as to not offend with my own words. "About 40 percent who have autism have an intellectual disability (IQ less than 70) By diagnosing standards, a score of less than 70 is equal to a diagnosis of mental retardation." (Now I have never hung my hat on a score and if my child or anyone else's had that score, I still believe in hope. This is simply a story of Lincoln's progress and I mean no offense to anyone dealing with intellectual disabilities.)<br /><br /> However, it has always been in the back of my mind since I learned of the associations of MR and Autism. Frankly, I didn't know he could even perform IQ testing on Lincoln. When he told me he was going to perform IQ testing, I was quite nervous about what he would find. <br /><br /> DRUMROLL......<br /><br /> Our Dr. proudly informed us that Lincoln has an IQ of 99 in (one) of the areas on the IQ test. The others are pretty close to that range also. Scoring guidelines for the Stanford-Binet IQ test state the AVERAGE IQ is 90-110. <br /><br /> Please know this isn't like an internet test that anyone takes, it is administered by a licensed Professional who is familiar with IQ testing and diagnosing standards. <br /><br /> How crazy is that?! My little guy who was on the severe end of the spectrum of autism is now considered to have High Functioning Autism and has an IQ typical with his peers.<br /><br /> THANK YOU JESUS!<br /><br /> On some other tests, he determined that Lincoln's abstract reasoning in dealing with puzzles, patterns, numbers etc...he is in the 96th percentile.<br /><br /> If this sounds like bragging....it absolutely is. Bragging on Linky and bragging on the awesome healing God we serve! Daniel and I have stood and believed that Lincoln is whole, healed, healthy and normal. He has the mind of Christ and that is something I confess and stand in faith believing for him. In the same way that Jesus died on the cross for our salvation, healing was also covered on the cross. <br /><br /> Side note, Under the new diagnosing standards for autism, Lincoln's official diagnosis is "Autism Spectrum Disorder-MILD." <br /><br /> Still have work to do and more ground to cover, but I am amazed at my little guy's progress. Overjoyed, overwhelmed with happiness and a sincerely grateful heart to God."</span></span></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-71073122732745101672014-02-23T00:15:00.003-06:002014-02-23T00:42:20.858-06:00Linky's Reaction at Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is Linky this past Christmas. This was the first year he experienced it like this. He understood Christmas (for the most part) and looked forward to it. I LOVE his reaction at the end. :)</div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-42638539075650726832014-02-21T07:32:00.003-06:002014-02-23T00:16:09.961-06:00Harvest Festival<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I couldn’t help
but think how cute Maddi looked in her tutu skirt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was black with ruffles and mock spider
webs, perfect for the Saturday before Halloween.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I smiled as I drove past places with their fall
decorations out. I love this time of year. I could hear Lincoln and Lucas in
the backseat singing along to Jesus Culture’s song, “You make all things work
together for my good.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It literally felt
like that too especially on that morning as we drove to the Harvest Festival. I
was on a super mom high, somewhat because of the coffee but mostly because
Lincoln had been doing so well lately. I was celebrating by taking all three
kids by myself to what I knew would be a great time to be had by all.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"> I
slowed to turn left into the church where the Harvest Festival was being held.
As I noticed all of the people and the lines, my heart sank and my stomach
turned to knots. I knew waiting in line for Lincoln was still a huge struggle.
I thought about turning around, but remembered Lucas’ face at previous events
when I’d changed my mind. He would be heartbroken, especially after we had
talked about it all morning. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I reminded
myself that Lincoln had come so far, I was just being negative and too
presumptuous. I reminded myself of scripture and began praying over him that he
would be calm, that he had the mind of Christ and we could do anything we set
our minds to. Nothing was impossible, not even a simple trip to a fun event.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I
got out of the car, fixed Maddi’s hair that she had taken out and put her boots
back on. I went around to the back of the car to get the stroller.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I opened the hatch, I realized I only had
the single stroller and it was a 2-year-old’s size, not Lincoln’s size at age
4.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My heart sank again. I strapped
Lincoln in the pink stroller with his feet hanging very close to the
ground.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I looked at him and said,
“Lincoln say, ‘I have the Mind of Christ.’” In his adorable little voice, he
said, “I have the mind of Christ Mom.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
continued with, “I can do anything I set my mind to, I am peaceful and I am
calm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know how to listen, I know how
to wait.” I went through the whole list adding in all of the
scriptural-faith-confessions I could think of.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He repeated everyone. I felt better when he loudly exclaimed, “Let’s go
Mom!”</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We made our way
through the parking lot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I met my
friends and we walked to the area where the event was. Lincoln started pointing
and saying, “This way, Mom” as soon as he saw the moon bounces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were quickly approached by a volunteer
asking us to register first. We made our way to the first of many lines. As we
waited, Lincoln grew impatient and practically stood up in the stroller,
dragging it with him. I decided to let him out so Maddi sat in it instead. I
tried to hurry filling out the form.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
asked for everything from the kid’s ages to our address and if we needed
prayer. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Lincoln went running
across the lawn and I dashed after him calling out to my friends to please
watch my other 2 kids for a minute. By the time I caught up with Lincoln he had
cut in front of twenty kids and was making his way across the obstacle course
moon bounce. A lady started yelling at him that he needed to listen and there
were rules. I thought to myself, “Yeah we will see how far that gets you.” I
finally caught up with her and grabbed her arm long enough to interrupt her
yelling and I said, “Ma’am, he has autism….he’s not going to listen to you.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I cringed as the
words came out because I hate confessing that over him as I am a faith
believing, super positive, get results kind of girl. I don’t want people to
define him by that or use it as an excuse. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But sometimes, like this time…it just is what
it is. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I couldn’t help but think how
fired up she was to be monitoring a kid’s moon bounce. It was very obvious that
she was a stickler for the rules. Her demeanor softened as she helped me get
him out of there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lincoln greeted me
with a huge smile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was obviously not
worried about the rules.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I grabbed Lincoln
and when he realized we were done with the moon bounce, he began to flail and
kick. I met my friends and fought Lincoln to put him back in the stroller. My
friends offered to take Lucas and let me handle Maddi and Lincoln. I was
relieved. I decided to let Lincoln have a clown make him a balloon. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought for sure that would be easier. The
girl in front of us had FIVE balloons made. I couldn’t help but notice that
this volunteer wasn’t a stickler for the rules like the other lady. Lincoln was
quickly losing the little bit of patience he had found. By the time she
finished his balloon, he had already noticed the rubber duckies next to us that
I had been trying to shield from his vision. He went ballistic, screaming, “I
want duckies, I want duckies.” He threw his balloon on the ground. I tried to
talk him down, all while smiling as I pushed him and trying to ignore the
people that stared. Looking back, I’m sure we were a sight to see; Maddi
dancing like a ballerina in her tutu and pigtails oblivious to her brother’s
tantrum and me in my heeled boots fighting my 4 year old son into the pink
stroller. I felt like we reeked chaos.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I
let my friends know that I needed to go to the car, that Lincoln was done. They
kept Lucas and said they would catch up with me in a few. Maddi began running
across the parking lot so I had to chase her, then carry her while I pushed
Lincoln. He screamed the whole way back to the car. Once I got the stroller and
Maddi loaded, I just put him in the front seat as he continued to scream, “I
want duckies!” I loudly put on some praise and worship music and cried my eyes
out. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I cried because
that day I was tired of the struggle. I cried for all of the times I hadn’t
been able to cry before. My heart hurt for me and it hurt for my kids, all
three of them. I just wanted to have a normal day of fun watching all of my
children play. I wanted Lincoln to conquer this day. Yet here I was, missing
Lucas ride a pony and not getting to have Maddi’s sweet little face painted,
all because Lincoln couldn’t handle it.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As I continued to cry, I noticed Lincoln was
completely calm. We exchanged eye gaze for a moment and then he got right in my
face and said, “I sorry Mom” and he wrapped his arms around me. There was no
denying that he understood what was going on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I felt like I was seeing him in a totally different light free from the
barriers of autism. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told him I was
sorry too. Then I cried for a new reason. He may have not conquered waiting in
line that day, but I had just watched him conquer something entirely new,
empathy and emotions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That made the
entire, hard day totally worth it.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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**This was a writing assignment for the "Autism Oklahoma Writers' Club." </div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-69389013260701217622013-12-30T08:47:00.000-06:002014-10-16T09:31:54.453-05:00Progress Update for Lincoln<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" id="id_52c186d6052441c86955030">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Praise God! There is an evaluation system called the ATEC <a href="http://meandmyquad.blogspot.com/2013/05/all-things-lincoln.html"><span style="color: #4c1130;">(Click here for previous post on this from May)</span></a> to gauge how treatments are working and the level of severity of autism your child has. A score over 104 (90th percentile) is considered severely autistic. A score Under 30 is considered to be mild autism and is in the lowest percentile (10th). If their score gets to be under 10, they are usually considered "recovered" and indistinguishable<span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span><span class="text_exposed_show"> from their peers. The goal is 0.<br /><br /> I say all that to say......check out Linky's scores!! <br /><br /> APRIL 2012- 82 (80th percentile)<br /> Aug 2012- 61 (50th percentile)<br /> May 2013- 35 (20th percentile)<br /><br /> Today ...Dec 2013- 28 (10th percentile)!!!!!!! <br /><br /> My linky went from severe autism to having mild autism. His original score was 82 and that was after a year of being in an ABA program for 15-17 hours a week. For us, Lincoln got better after being removed. I believe his score would have been much higher when we first knew he had autism (April 2011) but I didn't know about this tool to gauge that. <br /><br /> The goal is a score of ZERO! God is able. We have been standing believing God's Word that Lincoln is healed. We are watching it come to pass. So very thankful and happy! We still have some things to get worked out and he still has a ways to go. ...but man he's come so far!<br /><br /><a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/godisstillinthehealingbusiness">#Godisstillinthehealingbusines<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>s</a><br /><a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/healed">#healed</a> <a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/redeemed">#redeemed</a> <a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/setfree">#setfree</a> <a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/kickinautismbooty">#kickinautismbooty</a> <br /><br /> Side note: Daniel and I score him seperately, I scored him at 29 and Daniel scored him at 28. Either way; still in the tenth percentile!</span></span><span class="text_exposed_show"><span class="userContentSecondary fcg"></span></span></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-21668556239423398362013-12-24T21:22:00.001-06:002014-02-17T09:52:55.836-06:00C-scissors and Merry Christmas Everyone
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As Lincoln stumbled out of the room from sleeping, he looked
at the tree and said, I want presents.” I told him No, it wasn’t Christmas yet
and he responded with his typical, “Awww!” He takes my hand and leads me to the
office and says, “I want C scissors and presents.” I laugh to myelf, wondering
why he calls them that. I realize he is asking for the wrapping paper. I get
him the wrapping paper and his kid scissors and he begins cutting and putting
paper on everything he can find from DVD cases to chairs. He says, “Okay Mom
sit.” I sit and he brings me the presents one by one and says, “Merry
Christmas!” As I am done with them he takes them and puts them under the tree.
I love that he finally understands Christmas more than previous years. I can’t
help but get the feeling that he is repeating a scene from one of his cartoon
shows. However, I dismiss that noticing the different way he has me do it each
time leading me to believe this is genuine and not rehearsed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This whole scene reminds me of yesterday being at the Doctor
with Lucas. Dr. Edgington asked Lucas if his brother Lincoln talks. Lucas
responded with, “Yep he talks now.” I smile as he says it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then they said, “Can Lincoln tell you what he
wants for Christmas?” Lucas said, “No he just says, ‘I Want Merry Christmas’
mimicking Lincoln as he would say it.” As he says this, I ignore that sad
feeling that he hasn’t done that. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even though Lincoln still doesn’t quite
understand the question or the logistics of the holiday, it feels good to
finally realize that he is excited about Christmas and presents. In previous
years, Lincoln didn’t have a clue what Christmas was. We decorated the top of
the tree only and even that usually ended up stripped because Lincoln wanted to
line up the Christmas balls and presents too. This year brings me new hope for
future years as we strip away the old things of the past and focus on the new
things to look forward to. I can’t wait to see his little face this year on
Christmas morning as he announces, “Merry Christmas everybody.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">***Writing activity from our Autism Writers' Club. </span></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-16545433193690622542013-12-10T00:32:00.000-06:002014-09-03T07:56:26.915-05:00Brothers Healed From Asperger's Syndrome. Another Testimony...This was taken from the Andrew Womack website. <br />
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"Today, Christopher and Deborah McDermott are the proud parents of two normal, healthy children, but that wasn't always the case. Not long ago, their two sons, Timothy and James, were diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome and Autism respectively. Their disorders were labeled when the boys were young, and they were deemed incurable. While many suffer from these diseases and believe them to be lifelong, the McDermott's testimony will challenge those beliefs. Deborah would not accept the report, and called out to God for help. Her family's story can be seen in the video below, and it is proof that nothing is impossible with God—nothing is incurable."<br />
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<a href="http://news.awmi.net/home/2012/12/17/asperger-syndrome-autism-spectrum-disorder-healed.html">http://news.awmi.net/home/2012/12/17/asperger-syndrome-autism-spectrum-disorder-healed.html</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-59090681092353883142013-12-04T11:18:00.001-06:002014-01-05T23:19:05.393-06:00Harvest Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Mark 4 "Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop—some thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times what was sown.” </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">It feels like Harvest time here recently with Lincoln. He is doing all sorts of new things. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Teeth brushing has been excruciatingly difficult with Lincoln. I literally have to cradle him in my arms locking his arms and head toward me. Or sit over him while brushing as fast as I can. Believe me, we try the rewards and all of that, even him doing it on his own. He just hates it and refuses to do it. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Last night he came into the living room and grabbed my hand and said, "C'mon Mom, I brush my teeth." Of course I followed him into the bathroom, he grabbed his stool and started brushing. He even stopped and let me put toothpaste on the brush. Then he took a break and grabbed a cup for some water, retuned to the bathroom and finished brushing. I even left at one point to grab the iPad and take pictures. I am so happy and proud of him. This is a HUGE milestone.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I am overjoyed and so praising God constantly in this season (and all seasons, even the rough ones). He is indeed faithful! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Lincoln also potties on his own without even asking us anymore, just does it on his own...no problems at home.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> He is saying things that make our eyes wide. He just "gets it" here lately even more so than before. He pointed to something in a room the other night and said "go in there mom." I said, "no Linky you go in that room." He said, "no I don't want to!" He is just saying things all the time, love it! He is using prepositions appropriately and even using the right filler words. Instead of saying, " I help!" He now says, "I need help." I don't think there is anything he can't say, he finds a way. he even told me the other day "I sad mom." I asked him why and he said, "Well, because I want iPad." </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Understanding emotions, new words, self care.....thank you Jesus for this wonderful Harvest in our lives. "It shall come to pass."</span><br />
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<span style="color: #783f04; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>For more on what I mean about "Harvest Time", please read this. </strong></span><br />
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<span style="color: #783f04; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"The principle of seedtime and harvest will last as
long as the earth remains" (Genesis 8:20-22). </span><br />
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<span style="color: #783f04; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am quite interested in the "Law of Seedtime and Harvest" according to the Bible and in reference to faith." There are more references than I can count in regards to this. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #783f04; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Faith is really just like sowing seed. Whatever you plant (speak, believe) you will produce. If I have ever found myself frustrated during the process of believing for Lincoln's full manifestation of healing, I remind myself of sowing and reaping. A farmer doesn't plant his seed and then the next morning go out and the crop is there. I'm not suggesting that it can't happen that way. More common though, it's a process, a faith process. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #783f04; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Galatians 6:6-9 Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not"</span><br />
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<span class="red" style="color: #783f04; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop—some thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times what was sown.” Mark 4</span><br />
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<span style="color: #783f04; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Don't Lose heart, keep your eye on God. He is always faithful!</span><br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-53842401153897089502013-11-27T00:44:00.004-06:002014-02-23T00:42:20.853-06:00Thinking Differently<div class="ClearBoth">
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What is "Thinking Differently" about Autism?<br>
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It's loving these kids and adults who are impacted with autism right where they are at. However, it's helping them to progress in every area of life to the best of their ability. It's believing beyond their ability that their capacity for overcoming trials will increase. This requires "thinking differently." <br>
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For me, this is "Thinking Differently."<br>
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It is coming up with innovative ways to get my four year old potty trained like him spending almost an entire summer half naked at home because he didn't get the concept if he had clothes on. Goodbye "Naked Summer."<br>
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It's sleeping with him at night because if he is by himself, he will talk the entire night and not go to sleep. This started when he was 2 because he would lie in bed saying his ABCs and counting the entire night. One can only hear "A is for apple" a few times at 1am before you start seeing apples in your dreams. <br>
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It's my stomach in knots when we arrive at someone's house and I see the shelf of DVDs. I know he is going to line them bad boys up like there is no tomorrow and if there is a fruit bowl, they are really going to be in for a surprise.<br>
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It's me hoping that that friend invites me back.<br>
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It's speaking to him in his favorite cartoon voices to get him to do something I want him to do. I have mastered Mickey Mouse.<br>
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It's giving him a package of fruit snacks ONE.PIECE.AT.A.TIME. making him say whatever word my ears want to hear. I usually make him repeat scriptures. It's only fair, he does keep me up half the night.<br>
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It's cheering in the bathroom EVERY.SINGLE.TIME. I hear him pottying even though he has been doing this for months. He no longer high fives me, he just flushes and runs.<br>
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It's noticing that the 25 year old cashier at Wal-Mart made the exact sound with his mouth every time a new person would approach his line. That he only spoke to say hello after he scans the first item and in the usual scripted fashion. It's ignoring the eye rolls behind me as he takes extra time to tell me that he is going to watch Tom and Jerry re-runs on Thanksgiving and what his favorite ones are. Thinking Differently has made me more aware and proud of this man for making eye contact and engaging in conversation. As I walk off, he starts his story again with the next customer and I just smile. <br>
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Ultimately; It's offering hope, sharing our story and loving people that are like us and different from us. <br>
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It's the mom who has her kid in the biomedical world trying every vitamin known to man....or at least a few.<br>
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It's the parents who work their tail ends off to provide so that they can get their kid the 30+ hours a week of therapy that he needs. <br>
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It's the mom that takes her kid out of therapy because he needs a break and she knows him best.<br>
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It's researching on the internet at all hours of the night (once you finally get your kid to sleep) desperately looking for ways to make him better. <br>
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It's the mom who says he doesn't need to be better, he is fine just like he is. <br>
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It's the Mom who believes in Jesus and healing and faith with every fiber of her being. She so desperately wants the wholeness she believes the Bible speaks of and listens to that inner voice that tells her not to give up and change her beliefs for anyone. It's accepting him right where he is at but believing with out a doubt that he will get better and conquer in this life no matter what her eyes see.<br>
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It's acceptance, it's denying, it's believing, it's process...it's work, only unlike any other work you have ever done. <br>
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At the end of the day, we all think a little differently about thinking differently. But we all, hurt the same, cry the same, love them the same, rejoice in their achievements the same, and want what's best for them...the same. Let's love those and support those who think a little differently than we do. </div>
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<span style="color: #783f04;"><em>Thinking Differently is a campaign here in Oklahoma. I love it. While I am standing believing for my son's wholeness, there is still some stuff that we all go through that we have to think differently about. Many things in my life are still impacted daily as I cling to faith that it will get better and easier. There are still friends that need to be understanding and people that need to be more loving and kids that still need help.</em></span></div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-21007320850746456042013-11-24T23:11:00.001-06:002014-09-03T07:56:26.920-05:00Healed from Autism; Ryan's Testimony.I found this testimony a year ago and it completely helped build my faith. This was around the that I was starting to devoutly trust in God and truly just believe God at His Word that Lincoln is healed.<br />
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He is a Pastor and his son had autism. They had faith and stood on the Word believing for their son's wholeness. Today, he is healed and has no diagnosis. He is a college student away from home. God is so good!<br />
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Please be encouraged by this. <br />
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These scripture confessions that I have posted about Lincoln<span style="color: #351c75;"><strong> </strong></span><a href="http://meandmyquad.blogspot.com/2012/11/healing-scriptural-confessions.html"><span style="color: #351c75;"><strong>(Click here to see them)</strong></span></a> came from this Pastor. Please feel free to use them for your child, putting your child's name in there. I personally read them frequently and have recorded myself saying them over Lincoln. The bible says according to Romans 4:17, that we should "call those things that be not as though they were." I whole heartedly believe in changing your heart, believing what the bible says and speaking it. "Death and Life are in the power of the tongue." Proverbs 18:21<br />
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Here is a good Preaching series and he talks about faith and his son's healing from autism. <br />
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<a href="http://www.mediaatvictory.com/series/ryanstestimony">http://www.mediaatvictory.com/series/ryanstestimony</a><br />
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Here is the testimony on TBN:<br />
<a href="http://lifeatvictory.com/ryanstestimony/">http://lifeatvictory.com/ryanstestimony/</a><br />
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Here is the Pastor's Church page with all of the information on there.<br />
<a href="http://lifeatvictory.com/ryanstestimony/">http://lifeatvictory.com/ryanstestimony/</a><br />
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<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351234006589804254.post-33670765288057510972013-11-20T01:55:00.002-06:002013-11-23T22:13:05.641-06:00That DayWe strolled out of the Psychologist's office into the bright sunlight. It was a hot afternoon in June, even hotter when you were 7 months pregnant carrying your soon to be 2 year old. Soon, as in, just 6 days away. Daniel strapped Lincoln in his car seat and we got in the car and headed down the road to pick up our 3 year old son from a "stay and play" childcare place. <br />
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My mind started drifting to the previous months. It had been 4 months since we were first introduced to the idea of our son having autism. It had been a surprisingly calm 4 months considering everything we had just come into. It all happened so fast. Our Speech Pathologist clued us in to his thoughts on Lincoln. Then we met with a liaison to an autism program and they spoke to us about this opening in the program that would be perfect for Lincoln. Then he got into "the program" with more therapy than I knew was possible. Everyone spoke of "the spectrum" like it was common language. I finally had to ask somebody what on earth the "spectrum was." Our language changed a lot during those months and so did everything around us. We kept saying, "this wasn't like a cancer diagnosis, it didn't change him, it was who he had always been. This was simply a needed formality. That day, however, it didn't feel like that formality we had spoke of. All of these thoughts continued to roll in my head as we drove.<br />
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Daniel started talking about church and things we had upcoming that week. I joined in the conversation telling him how hungry I was and we started discussing where we should eat. As we stopped at a stop light, my thoughts all shifted back and I felt like I was in a daze. I thought of how I had teared up when Dr. Edgington gave us the official diagnosis. Then I thought of his calming words; "Never give up, expect the best, expect him to graduate high-school and go to college and get married and have a family, never give up." I just started sobbing out of no where as I thought of those words. Daniel looked at me startled and asked me what was wrong. It genuinely was just a formality to Daniel. Bless him for that. But, even in all of my knowing all those months, this felt like it changed everything. I said, "He has Autism, he really has autism!" I couldn't quit saying it. I felt like my heart was being ripped out of my chest. That was the moment that the previous 4 months and everything we had been through all came crashing down. I had kept my cool and been super mom and appeared to be in control of everything, just letting it all ride out. Now, in that moment I just let it all out. <br />
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That was a day I will never forget. Little Sweetness as we called him, with his red head full of curls who still hadn't called us Mommy or Daddy, sat in the backseat in his own usual daze. We picked up Lucas and made our way home. Daniel grabbed my hand as we got home and said, "you can tell me what our baby is if you want to." We were suppose to wait until the baby was born to find out what "it" would be. I had went ahead and found out anyway and hadn't told Daniel. I grinned like a school girl because Lord knows I couldn't keep a secret and I had been dying to tell him and he wouldn't let me. So, I made certain he wanted to know and then I told him we would be having a girl, our sweet Maddi would be joining the family soon. After that, I spent the evening posting and responding on Facebook and letting family and friends know we were having a girl. For the rest of that day, I was able to treat Lincoln's diagnosis like it was the formality we had talked about. I realized later, that even though Daniel didn't want to know the baby's gender, he let me tell him because he knew it would sustain me for the rest of that day and that the joy of getting to share about our baby girl would overshadow the sadness of the day. Such a selfless, loving act and is one reason I don't dread looking back at that day. Such a bitter......sweet day. <br />
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I should say, this is only a memory I wanted to write down of how I felt BACK THEN. obviously do not feel this way now. Just something I have wanted to get off of my chest and down on paper to look back at.<br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/Misty_Preble_Sanders/media/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u612/Misty_Preble_Sanders/starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png" border="0" alt=" photo starriwsiug_zpsd03effd1.png"/></a></div>Staciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01180103662716879411noreply@blogger.com3