Grateful for silver linings, one of which is how family and friends are gathering around us in prayer and with offers of support. Cancer is a lot of hard things. It is already proving to be a lot of connecting with loved ones and strengthening of relationships and that is so, so good.
PRAYER REQUESTS
PRAYER REQUESTS
- Peace for Shawn and I, for Kyle and Miranda and Braden and Connor, for our parents and siblings and nieces and nephews and inner circle friends watching and hurting as we go through this - that God would keep soft our children's hearts toward Him through all the emotions of this hard journey - strength and stamina; physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually - that the cancer shrinks to gone, gone, gone! - gentle side effects to this second round of chemo - family unity, harmony, love, strength, joy, happiness - anything else you feel God puts on your heart
Monday, February 3, 2014
Reminder:
Out of respect for Kristin and the great love she has for her family we are requesting NO visitors.
She is reserving all of her energy for Shawn and the kids.
Please continue to leave your loving comments for her and her family on this blog. We are so grateful for all the Prayers, Love & Support!
"But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble." Psalm 59:16 NIV
May God be your refuge and fortress. We continue to pray and shed tears and put our hope in our Saviour. May His presence be strongly felt around each one of you today. Thank you so much for allowing us to share in Kristin and her family's lives by updating this blog.
Thank you Kori for letting everyone know what is happening. I know this is hard for you too to write this and go through this. Please know that our prayers are for you and the rest of the family too. Just wondering if Kristin has gotten some of these messages people have been posting?
We are reading your messages to Kristin, keep them coming! We have not lost our faith and hope! Thank you for supporting Kristin and our entire family ~love Kori & Keri
I just wanted to let Kristin know that her strength and courage is remarkable. She is an amazing women and I am so glad that I have been part of this journey even if it is just bringing meals or sending prayers to heaven.I cried myself to sleep last night thinking about the night before my sister passed away.I wanted to spend every moment with her, praying for her singing to her knowing that the moment would come and she would be gone. I could not let go of her hand knowing that I would not be able to again here on earth. Isn't it wonderful to know we have faith, that we all will meet again in heaven and be able to be near them again,even though it feels unbearable to think about them not being here right now. Love her, pour your tears and heart on her and you will feel at peace when she is gone.Tell Kristin that we all love her and that I can't wait to see her again.May God be with each of you covering your hearts with his love.May he give you all the things you want to say and feel so that you will feel peace know matter what happens. I have felt so connected on an emotional level with her seeing my sister passed away a year and a half ago at age 31 and left her 12 year old daughter behind. She is so blessed to have such a loving/caring family that has been with her every step of the way.I will never forget her she has left an imprint on my heart and I am sure so many others.I will continue to pray for her and all of you.I will pray for no pain, no suffering, and that she can enjoy spending time with each of you.Love and peace to each of you, Krissy Bredlow and family xoxo
I also would love to be there and give her a big hug.If you could for me please and tell her that I love her like a sister and even though I have not been able to spend much time with her I am so glad she has allowed me to connect with her through her blog as she has with so many others.Love you Kristin,Krissy
We met only once. We saw each other from a distance and we came together in a hug. I cried.. and you cried and I marvelled at your grace and your strength, courage, your open heart to a friend through blogging and most of all I could see your faith in Jesus. You have been so faithful to share the hope that is in you. I could see then that you are not alone in this. I want to tell you that my prayers for your dear family will continue.
Jesus has promised to be with us always... Matthew 28:20
Praying for each of you there beside Kristen.. May God's abundant love surround each of you with peace and comfort and hope.
I think Krissy Bredlow said everything I was felling. Tell Kristin that we are continue to pray peace over her and we Love her and we are proud of how she has handled all this with her family. Again, I admire her in so many ways. Love to all of you. Barbara Wade and family
Kristin, thank you for pouring your heart out on this blog. Your strength and testimony is reaching further than you know. Continued prayers for healing, grace, and peace for you and your whole family. ~Melissa Forsyth
Kristen.....We have never met but you have left an indelible mark in my heart. You have taught me so much about Faith and life in general......and that humour goes a long way. You have a wicked sense of humour and your honestly is so refreshing in your blog. Your children are so fortunate to have a Mom who has taught them so well about opening their hearts to God. I will continue to pray for you Kristen and for your entire family...Donna from Ottawa
Wow I have been at a lose for words.I want you to know you have touch my life and helped me in my journey, even though it was different things i was in awe at how God used your words to keep me moving on my journey.I have four children as well your mother heart is similiar to my own some of the things you expressed about your kids rang in my soul.So today i gathered by four to pray for your four and for all the other beautiful family members surronding you.My husband prayed for yours and we will continue to pray for your family and you.May God surround all of you in his peace and comfort.Your a beautiful lady and have a wonderful heart you have blessed far more people with your openness and sharing your faith here then you will ever know.Thank you for sharing and being so open. Blessings Angie
Kristin, I love that Jesus has been so good and kind to you! Thank you God for such amazing family times that Kristin has grabbed onto the last year and a half. God, you have allowed relationships to blossom and grow and be fruitful! You have always been so faithful and merciful to Kristin ... thanks God. Love you K!
Dear Kristin, I don't know if you'll have a chance to read this. We have been so saddened by this news. I was hoping that things would work out differently for you. Our cul-de-sac will not be the same without you. I have missed our talks while the kids were playing. Life had gotten busy and our visits and friendship became just a wave in passing. I was hoping that we would be able to do that again. However, God must have greater plans for you. I am at a loss of words. My heart is heavy. We will be there for Shawn and the kids. Until we meet again dear Kristin.
I had the privilege of filing in at MEI for your daughter's teacher. What a sweet girl you have Kirsten. She asked for prayer that morning for her mom...we prayed. We as a family are praying too. We are praying for your miracle, and that God will be glorified in all of this, which He clearly is. I've never met you personally, but I know your sister Kori and your sweet girl. You are in my heart and prayers. Offering you HOPE on this day. Hope of all the marvelous things our Heavenly Father promises us. Sending love and many prayers, Corina
Kristen and your entire family are in my prayers. I lift my eyes to the heavens...praying unceasingly to the God of miracles. Our God is a God of faith, hope and joy. Blessings and love. Janelle
Ah, Kristin, I have never met anyone else like you. You are bold, fierce, ready to take on the world, protective, Godly, powerful, kind, loving, you have touched my life in ways you don't even know. I have such love and respect for you, your husband, and your very beautiful children. Our family is praying ceaselessly for you and your family. You are loved, my friend. Keep fighting.
Kristin, even now, you are such an inspiration. you are truly a woman of God. Thnk you for inspiring the rest of us. We are continuing to pray for you and your family
Continual prayers are being sent your way hour after hour, we have seen the miracles at work already, the miracle of family unity, the miracle of His peace that passes all understanding, the miracle of forgiveness, the miracle of unbelievable strength that not only Kristen has been supplied with but the family too, thank you Kristen for being a person who makes the rest of us want to be better! Patti
Dear Kristen Thank you for being such an inspiring women of God. First time I ever saw you was at church with your beautiful family. I taught your youngest 2 in Sunday school. You always had a smile on your face when at church, and at mom and me loved to cuddle my first :) I only wish you got a chance to cuddle the twins. You have given me strength with your words in this blog when I was and still going through my own journey of my kidney issues and I thank you for all the quotes and bible verses you shared they gave me strength but also kept me grounded by knowing there are more people out there going through tough life events. Always praying for you and your family. Liz
I have been praying for you family throughout my day. In every step of my day I have been reminded to stop and enjoy... because it could be gone. Although I live with the hope of heaven I know that my time to leave this earth could be at any moment.. that is all in God's hands. So today I choose to slow down and enjoy every minute... even the not so great ones. I stopped myself for hurrying my kids along with putting on their winter boots cause we would be late, I gave an extra hug at school drop off, I chose to not react to yet another spilled glass of juice. I wanted to take it all in and enjoy it.. and that is because of you.. reading your blog and seeing your love for the little things and seeing your love for your kids through all of this made me slow down and appreciate my life a bit more. I am praying peace over your hospital room. That you would be able to enjoy the time you have with your family and that these days would be sweet days of reminiscing and loving on each other and that the hope and peace of heaven and what is too come would transcend it all.... thankyou for changing me
Oh Kristin - you are tired and in pain. You have fought so courageously, always putting the needs of others ahead of your own. You have blessed Shawn and your kids with great love, and they will carry that love with them for the rest of their lives! Zechariah 9:9 says, "Shout and cheer, Daughter Zion! Raise the roof, Daughter Jerusalem! Your King is coming!" Kristin, Your King is coming! Love you much, Laura
Kristin, your gentle heart, your big big hugs, your genuine caring for people, your generosity, the fact that you shop at Land's End, your amazing hair... so many things I love about you! I can go on and on, but it is your love for Jesus and your inspiration that will be your legacy. You are a gentle warrior. Fight this good fight. The battle is not over-- for great is your victory. You have touched us deeply. We are sharing in this journey with you and will circle the wagons of your loved ones with prayer. Love always. Karen Van Egmond
My treasured friend. While you didn't choose this journey you dove in with a fight and determination that can only be called Kristin size! Moments may have rocked you: but you got up determined to stand another day. You have my friend!! I truly believe that God gave you extra days to love, celebrate and cherish your family. In all of this your faith never faltered it just grew deeper and stronger. This legacy not only reaches your family; but all of us who you have allowed to come on this journey with you. Thank you for your honesty and vulnerability. I will miss Your kind, tender heart, your wisdom and your spunk!! You are loved!! We will be the village to help support Shawn and your family in the coming season. If roles were reversed I know you would do that for us. Noel
I just read a blog post from a daughter who just recently lost her mom to cancer. She talked about how yesterday (sunday) when she was singing praise songs in church it suddenly struck her that she was singing her praise to God and her mom was actually seeing him face to face. It was such a beautiful image and made her feel very connected to her mom at that moment. I pray that your family would have those moments of connectedness too.
Thank you for updating this blog, Kori and Keri. Kristin, I love you, and so many people love you as you know. Praying for you and rest of your family. Miwa
Psalm 18:1-2 I love you, Lord; you are my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety.
Praying this day for a strong of sense of your Heavenly Father who is YOUR strength. YOUR rock, YOUR fortress, YOUR saviour, and in whom you will find protection. Brave one, God is YOUR SHIELD! He is the power that saves YOU and he is YOUR place of safety.
Kristin, You bloom where you are planted. I love your fragrance and exquisite beauty. You learned life's lessons before most of us even showed up for class ;) You are so loved here by us all and in heaven Auntie Shirl and Grandma love you deeply too. (just to name a few) I have so many great memories of growing up as your cousin...you were at every birthday party and family gathering! I will never forget the week you came to stay with us when my parents went on vacation! It's hard to not receive exactly what you have been praying for...I might have to yell and scream and stomp for a while too ;) I love you so very much. Cherilyn
Kristen; Our lives crossed paths in the past through mutual friends and I was so saddened when I heard about this journey that you have had to endure. Your strength, honesty and beauty have shone through it all. You are so much stronger than I believe I could ever be. This verse came to my mind this morning while praying again for you and your family (you are constantly on my mind). It is a verse that comforted my brother and his wife after the sudden passing of my niece. "I lift up my eyes to the hills--from where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth." Psalm 121:1, 2 You have sought God's strength through your journey here and you are an inspiration to the many readers of your blog. Please know that heaven is being inundated with prayers for you and your family. You are loved and not forgotten. (((hugs))) to you. Love, Jenn Van Harmelen
Hey Kristin, it's Val. I'm just gonna talk normal as if I'm messaging you because I wish I could talk with you. (I'm thinking one of your sisters will read this message to you.) I miss you! I wish we could just hang around the schoolyard and just yak away like we always do ... or chat away around your full work table that used to be in your living room ... or grab a coffee on a drive to the mall where Build A Bear is ... loved all those times with you. Your little C is so sweet! The other day when I dropped off a meal he bragged to Wiffy that he used to come to our house "like 10 times a week!" Remember that Superhero picture that Darlene MacDonald had taken of C and Lewis? Both of them were dressed as Superman defending Ross Elementary ... best of buds! I miss your hugs. It always seemed like neither of us wanted to let go first! You've never been afraid to KNOW others and BE KNOWN. I love that about you. Thanks for having our family over a couple of years ago for New Year's Eve; this year at midnight, the boys decided to go ripping around our driveway with pots and pans this year in honor of The Ericksons! I was outside cheering along with them! Funny thing is that the retired couple who live next to us slept through the whole thing ... haha!! Man, Kristin, you should see Lewis now! His gymnastic skills have really improved since the last time you saw him. It makes me wonder why he chose to have a bowling party this year for his birthday rather than a party at Twister's. Maybe it's 'cause he's there already two times a week? I don't know. He did have a blast bowling with all of his buds though! I'm so glad I was able to see you that night. I know; it was busy and we didn't have too much time or space or quiet just to be, but it was good to see you. I'm wearing the little orange dhalia flower earrings that I bought in support of a certain Ross family a couple of years ago ... I'm wearing them every day. I think they've become my favorite pair of earrings. In fact, more people comment on that pair of earrings over any others that I wear. Interesting, eh? The boys and I pray for you almost every day on our drive to school. They don't know how sick you are, but they do know that Jesus loves to comfort and be near and even heal sick people. So that's why we're praying and that's what we're praying for you. Love, love, love, and all the Goodness of Jesus be yours.
Amazingly timely! Just after praying for Kristen, a picture popped up on my daughter's facebook - a depiction on a hospital wall of a strong man holding the symbolic pole with the snake around it and a scythe - pushing back a skeleton in a cape. I tried to post it here, but I guess pictures don't work.
We had been talking about how we have to always pray and never give in to hopelessness. That we need to push back evil and sickness with our prayers. Jesus said that Satan comes to steal, kill, and destroy, but that he has come to give us life to the full. As we prayed, Mikaela (my daughter) had a picture of us all standing together, holding hands, as a wall to push back the darkness and overpower and rebuke the cancer by the name of Jesus and his victory over Satan at the cross. (Col 2:15 - God disarmed the powers that were ranged against us and made a bold display and public example of them, in triumphing over them in Him and in the cross). We are continuing to pray warfare prayers on behalf of Kristen. Together and through Jesus, we are powerful.(James 5:16 - The earnest hearfelt, continued prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available.) Kari Furse and family (Mikaela and Jonathan know Kristen's kids through youth and big city studio)
Dear Kristin, Shawn and family, I've been trying to put my thoughts into words, but have typed and deleted so many. Feeling numb for you, but also at the same time I am filled with admiration... the positive impact and encouragement you are having on thousands of people through this blog, and in your day to day life, will forever by remembered and live on! You have demonstrated how to live through difficult times with such grace! Your kids, family, friends, and even anonymous bloggers have experienced the love of Jesus through you, even during your harder days. And now, may you feel the love and prayers of all these people you have blessed and encouraged, especially in the coming days and weeks. We love you, and will continue to hold your family up in prayers! <3 Robin (Kaiser) Ediger
You are my hero miss Kristin! I don't know you personally but I feel I know you thru your journey. I pray for you and your family every day! I went to school with you for 1 year but we were not in the same grade. I also just found out that my fiance is your husband's cousin...small world!! I have read your blog and kept up with your fight...and what an amazing fight! You have put so much into perspective for me and I thank you! You have changed me and I am grateful! I will continue to pray for a miracle for you and your family but I will also pray for comfort and peace. please know that you have made a difference in so many peoples lives and we will never forget you!! God bless you!! Peace be with you!! Elizabeth Lloyd
did a little crying and fist shaking at the Lord in the shower yesterday, contending for miracles on your behalf. Glad he can take it when we throw tantrums... Praying many times a day for you and your family. Kim R
Dear Kristin, We met and chatted a few times over making meals at cookdays with Angela Boon. I regret that we did not keep in touch, but please know that my boys and I have been keeping you and your family in our prayers. Your faith and love for your family is inspiring beyond words; you have inspired and encouraged me to be a better mom to my sons. My heart is breaking for the pain you and your family have endured. Words seem so inadequate; please forgive my bumbling. I want you to know above all that you are loved and held by many in prayer...♡hugs♡ Eileen Dorst
Good afternoon on this beautiful sunny Kristin-kind-of-day! Nature is singing about you today in glorious sunshine, bulbs are poking up through the ground, new leaves on the forsythia bush in my backyard, and blue blue blue sky decorated with the occasional fluff of a white cloud! Kristin, my friend, the LORD is your inheritance this day!
Lamentations 3:22-25 New Living Translation (NLT) 22 The faithful love of the Lord never ends![a] His mercies never cease. 23 Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. 24 I say to myself, “The Lord is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!” 25 The Lord is good to those who depend on him, to those who search for him.
Dear Mrs Erickson It's me, Olivia Candy, I just wish you the best and that you heal and feel better and have a great valentines day. I know your struggling, but please know mloved puppy Zoey in heaven will be there when you need her and always stay with you I love you Love Olivia Candy
My heart is there in that hospital room with you all.
ReplyDeleteThinking and praying for you all. Please give Kristin a big hug for me xo
ReplyDeleteThinking and praying for you all. Please give Kristin a big hug for me xo
ReplyDelete"But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble." Psalm 59:16 NIV
ReplyDeleteMay God be your refuge and fortress. We continue to pray and shed tears and put our hope in our Saviour. May His presence be strongly felt around each one of you today. Thank you so much for allowing us to share in Kristin and her family's lives by updating this blog.
Thank you Kori for letting everyone know what is happening. I know this is hard for you too to write this and go through this. Please know that our prayers are for you and the rest of the family too. Just wondering if Kristin has gotten some of these messages people have been posting?
ReplyDeletePraying for you continually.
ReplyDeleteContinued prayer for strength for each one of you!
ReplyDeleteWe are reading your messages to Kristin, keep them coming! We have not lost our faith and hope! Thank you for supporting Kristin and our entire family ~love Kori & Keri
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to let Kristin know that her strength and courage is remarkable.
ReplyDeleteShe is an amazing women and I am so glad that I have been part of this journey even if it is just bringing meals or sending prayers to heaven.I cried myself to sleep last night thinking about the night before my sister passed away.I wanted to spend every moment with her, praying for her singing to her knowing that the moment would come and she would be gone.
I could not let go of her hand knowing that I would not be able to again here on earth.
Isn't it wonderful to know we have faith, that we all will meet again in heaven and be able to be near them again,even though it feels unbearable to think about them not being here right now.
Love her, pour your tears and heart on her and you will feel at peace when she is gone.Tell Kristin that we all love her and that I can't wait to see her again.May God be with each of you covering your hearts with his love.May he give you all the things you want to say and feel so that you will feel peace know matter what happens.
I have felt so connected on an emotional level with her seeing my sister passed away a year and a half ago at age 31 and left her 12 year old daughter behind.
She is so blessed to have such a loving/caring family that has been with her every step of the way.I will never forget her she has left an imprint on my heart and I am sure so many others.I will continue to pray for her and all of you.I will pray for no pain, no suffering, and that she can enjoy spending time with each of you.Love and peace to each of you, Krissy Bredlow and family xoxo
I also would love to be there and give her a big hug.If you could for me please and tell her that I love her like a sister and even though I have not been able to spend much time with her I am so glad she has allowed me to connect with her through her blog as she has with so many others.Love you Kristin,Krissy
DeletePraying for you Kristen and kori and the whole family. May you feel God's warmth surrounding you at this most difficult time and never give up hope.
ReplyDeleteDear Kristen,
ReplyDeleteWe met only once. We saw each other from a distance and we came together in a hug. I cried.. and you cried and I marvelled at your grace and your strength, courage, your open heart to a friend through blogging and most of all I could see your faith in Jesus. You have been so faithful to share the hope that is in you. I could see then that you are not alone in this. I want to tell you that my prayers for your dear family will continue.
Jesus has promised to be with us always... Matthew 28:20
Praying for each of you there beside Kristen.. May God's abundant love surround each of you with peace and comfort and hope.
I think Krissy Bredlow said everything I was felling. Tell Kristin that we are continue to pray peace over her and we Love her and we are proud of how she has handled all this with her family. Again, I admire her in so many ways. Love to all of you. Barbara Wade and family
ReplyDeleteKristin, thank you for pouring your heart out on this blog. Your strength and testimony is reaching further than you know. Continued prayers for healing, grace, and peace for you and your whole family. ~Melissa Forsyth
ReplyDeleteKristen.....We have never met but you have left an indelible mark in my heart. You have taught me so much about Faith and life in general......and that humour goes a long way. You have a wicked sense of humour and your honestly is so refreshing in your blog. Your children are so fortunate to have a Mom who has taught them so well about opening their hearts to God. I will continue to pray for you Kristen and for your entire family...Donna from Ottawa
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ReplyDeleteWow I have been at a lose for words.I want you to know you have touch my life and helped me in my journey, even though it was different things i was in awe at how God used your words to keep me moving on my journey.I have four children as well your mother heart is similiar to my own some of the things you expressed about your kids rang in my soul.So today i gathered by four to pray for your four and for all the other beautiful family members surronding you.My husband prayed for yours and we will continue to pray for your family and you.May God surround all of you in his peace and comfort.Your a beautiful lady and have a wonderful heart you have blessed far more people with your openness and sharing your faith here then you will ever know.Thank you for sharing and being so open.
ReplyDeleteBlessings
Angie
Kristin, I love that Jesus has been so good and kind to you! Thank you God for such amazing family times that Kristin has grabbed onto the last year and a half. God, you have allowed relationships to blossom and grow and be fruitful! You have always been so faithful and merciful to Kristin ... thanks God. Love you K!
ReplyDeleteDear Kristin, I don't know if you'll have a chance to read this. We have been so saddened by this news. I was hoping that things would work out differently for you. Our cul-de-sac will not be the same without you. I have missed our talks while the kids were playing. Life had gotten busy and our visits and friendship became just a wave in passing. I was hoping that we would be able to do that again. However, God must have greater plans for you. I am at a loss of words. My heart is heavy. We will be there for Shawn and the kids. Until we meet again dear Kristin.
ReplyDeleteCheryl Oakes
I had the privilege of filing in at MEI for your daughter's teacher. What a sweet girl you have Kirsten. She asked for prayer that morning for her mom...we prayed. We as a family are praying too. We are praying for your miracle, and that God will be glorified in all of this, which He clearly is. I've never met you personally, but I know your sister Kori and your sweet girl. You are in my heart and prayers. Offering you HOPE on this day. Hope of all the marvelous things our Heavenly Father promises us. Sending love and many prayers, Corina
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ReplyDeleteKristen and your entire family are in my prayers. I lift my eyes to the heavens...praying unceasingly to the God of miracles. Our God is a God of faith, hope and joy. Blessings and love. Janelle
ReplyDeleteAh, Kristin, I have never met anyone else like you. You are bold, fierce, ready to take on the world, protective, Godly, powerful, kind, loving, you have touched my life in ways you don't even know. I have such love and respect for you, your husband, and your very beautiful children. Our family is praying ceaselessly for you and your family. You are loved, my friend. Keep fighting.
ReplyDeleteKnow that you and your family are loved beyond measure!!
ReplyDeleteLove Ryan, Kim, Jordan and Katie<3
Kristin, even now, you are such an inspiration. you are truly a woman of God. Thnk you for inspiring the rest of us. We are continuing to pray for you and your family
ReplyDeleteLove you Kristin!
ReplyDeleteContinual prayers are being sent your way hour after hour, we have seen the miracles at work already, the miracle of family unity, the miracle of His peace that passes all understanding, the miracle of forgiveness, the miracle of unbelievable strength that not only Kristen has been supplied with but the family too, thank you Kristen for being a person who makes the rest of us want to be better! Patti
ReplyDeleteDear Kristen
ReplyDeleteThank you for being such an inspiring women of God. First time I ever saw you was at church with your beautiful family. I taught your youngest 2 in Sunday school. You always had a smile on your face when at church, and at mom and me loved to cuddle my first :) I only wish you got a chance to cuddle the twins. You have given me strength with your words in this blog when I was and still going through my own journey of my kidney issues and I thank you for all the quotes and bible verses you shared they gave me strength but also kept me grounded by knowing there are more people out there going through tough life events. Always praying for you and your family.
Liz
I have been praying for you family throughout my day. In every step of my day I have been reminded to stop and enjoy... because it could be gone. Although I live with the hope of heaven I know that my time to leave this earth could be at any moment.. that is all in God's hands. So today I choose to slow down and enjoy every minute... even the not so great ones. I stopped myself for hurrying my kids along with putting on their winter boots cause we would be late, I gave an extra hug at school drop off, I chose to not react to yet another spilled glass of juice. I wanted to take it all in and enjoy it.. and that is because of you.. reading your blog and seeing your love for the little things and seeing your love for your kids through all of this made me slow down and appreciate my life a bit more. I am praying peace over your hospital room. That you would be able to enjoy the time you have with your family and that these days would be sweet days of reminiscing and loving on each other and that the hope and peace of heaven and what is too come would transcend it all.... thankyou for changing me
ReplyDeleteOh Kristin - you are tired and in pain. You have fought so courageously, always putting the needs of others ahead of your own. You have blessed Shawn and your kids with great love, and they will carry that love with them for the rest of their lives! Zechariah 9:9 says, "Shout and cheer, Daughter Zion! Raise the roof, Daughter Jerusalem! Your King is coming!" Kristin, Your King is coming! Love you much,
ReplyDeleteLaura
Kristin, your gentle heart, your big big hugs, your genuine caring for people, your generosity, the fact that you shop at Land's End, your amazing hair... so many things I love about you! I can go on and on, but it is your love for Jesus and your inspiration that will be your legacy. You are a gentle warrior. Fight this good fight. The battle is not over-- for great is your victory. You have touched us deeply. We are sharing in this journey with you and will circle the wagons of your loved ones with prayer. Love always. Karen Van Egmond
ReplyDeleteMy treasured friend. While you didn't choose this journey you dove in with a fight and determination that can only be called Kristin size! Moments may have rocked you: but you got up determined to stand another day. You have my friend!! I truly believe that God gave you extra days to love, celebrate and cherish your family. In all of this your faith never faltered it just grew deeper and stronger. This legacy not only reaches your family; but all of us who you have allowed to come on this journey with you. Thank you for your honesty and vulnerability. I will miss Your kind, tender heart, your wisdom and your spunk!! You are loved!! We will be the village to help support Shawn and your family in the coming season. If roles were reversed I know you would do that for us.
ReplyDeleteNoel
I have been reading the recent posts here and am greatly moved. I can only say is what beautiful words for an even more remarkable soul God bless you
ReplyDeleteI just read a blog post from a daughter who just recently lost her mom to cancer. She talked about how yesterday (sunday) when she was singing praise songs in church it suddenly struck her that she was singing her praise to God and her mom was actually seeing him face to face. It was such a beautiful image and made her feel very connected to her mom at that moment. I pray that your family would have those moments of connectedness too.
ReplyDeleteThank you for updating this blog, Kori and Keri.
ReplyDeleteKristin, I love you, and so many people love you as you know.
Praying for you and rest of your family.
Miwa
God be with you all, love, hugs and prayers. Cindy
ReplyDeletePsalm 18:1-2 I love you, Lord; you are my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety.
ReplyDeletePraying this day for a strong of sense of your Heavenly Father who is YOUR strength. YOUR rock, YOUR fortress, YOUR saviour, and in whom you will find protection. Brave one, God is YOUR SHIELD! He is the power that saves YOU and he is YOUR place of safety.
Kristin,
ReplyDeleteYou bloom where you are planted. I love your fragrance and exquisite beauty. You learned life's lessons before most of us even showed up for class ;) You are so loved here by us all and in heaven Auntie Shirl and Grandma love you deeply too. (just to name a few) I have so many great memories of growing up as your cousin...you were at every birthday party and family gathering! I will never forget the week you came to stay with us when my parents went on vacation! It's hard to not receive exactly what you have been praying for...I might have to yell and scream and stomp for a while too ;) I love you so very much. Cherilyn
Kristen;
ReplyDeleteOur lives crossed paths in the past through mutual friends and I was so saddened when I heard about this journey that you have had to endure. Your strength, honesty and beauty have shone through it all. You are so much stronger than I believe I could ever be. This verse came to my mind this morning while praying again for you and your family (you are constantly on my mind). It is a verse that comforted my brother and his wife after the sudden passing of my niece. "I lift up my eyes to the hills--from where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth." Psalm 121:1, 2 You have sought God's strength through your journey here and you are an inspiration to the many readers of your blog. Please know that heaven is being inundated with prayers for you and your family. You are loved and not forgotten. (((hugs))) to you.
Love, Jenn Van Harmelen
Hey Kristin, it's Val. I'm just gonna talk normal as if I'm messaging you because I wish I could talk with you. (I'm thinking one of your sisters will read this message to you.) I miss you! I wish we could just hang around the schoolyard and just yak away like we always do ... or chat away around your full work table that used to be in your living room ... or grab a coffee on a drive to the mall where Build A Bear is ... loved all those times with you. Your little C is so sweet! The other day when I dropped off a meal he bragged to Wiffy that he used to come to our house "like 10 times a week!" Remember that Superhero picture that Darlene MacDonald had taken of C and Lewis? Both of them were dressed as Superman defending Ross Elementary ... best of buds! I miss your hugs. It always seemed like neither of us wanted to let go first! You've never been afraid to KNOW others and BE KNOWN. I love that about you. Thanks for having our family over a couple of years ago for New Year's Eve; this year at midnight, the boys decided to go ripping around our driveway with pots and pans this year in honor of The Ericksons! I was outside cheering along with them! Funny thing is that the retired couple who live next to us slept through the whole thing ... haha!! Man, Kristin, you should see Lewis now! His gymnastic skills have really improved since the last time you saw him. It makes me wonder why he chose to have a bowling party this year for his birthday rather than a party at Twister's. Maybe it's 'cause he's there already two times a week? I don't know. He did have a blast bowling with all of his buds though! I'm so glad I was able to see you that night. I know; it was busy and we didn't have too much time or space or quiet just to be, but it was good to see you. I'm wearing the little orange dhalia flower earrings that I bought in support of a certain Ross family a couple of years ago ... I'm wearing them every day. I think they've become my favorite pair of earrings. In fact, more people comment on that pair of earrings over any others that I wear. Interesting, eh? The boys and I pray for you almost every day on our drive to school. They don't know how sick you are, but they do know that Jesus loves to comfort and be near and even heal sick people. So that's why we're praying and that's what we're praying for you. Love, love, love, and all the Goodness of Jesus be yours.
ReplyDeleteAmazingly timely! Just after praying for Kristen, a picture popped up on my daughter's facebook - a depiction on a hospital wall of a strong man holding the symbolic pole with the snake around it and a scythe - pushing back a skeleton in a cape. I tried to post it here, but I guess pictures don't work.
ReplyDeleteWe had been talking about how we have to always pray and never give in to hopelessness. That we need to push back evil and sickness with our prayers. Jesus said that Satan comes to steal, kill, and destroy, but that he has come to give us life to the full. As we prayed, Mikaela (my daughter) had a picture of us all standing together, holding hands, as a wall to push back the darkness and overpower and rebuke the cancer by the name of Jesus and his victory over Satan at the cross. (Col 2:15 - God disarmed the powers that were ranged against us and made a bold display and public example of them, in triumphing over them in Him and in the cross).
We are continuing to pray warfare prayers on behalf of Kristen. Together and through Jesus, we are powerful.(James 5:16 - The earnest hearfelt, continued prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available.)
Kari Furse and family (Mikaela and Jonathan know Kristen's kids through youth and big city studio)
Dear Kristin, Shawn and family, I've been trying to put my thoughts into words, but have typed and deleted so many. Feeling numb for you, but also at the same time I am filled with admiration... the positive impact and encouragement you are having on thousands of people through this blog, and in your day to day life, will forever by remembered and live on! You have demonstrated how to live through difficult times with such grace! Your kids, family, friends, and even anonymous bloggers have experienced the love of Jesus through you, even during your harder days. And now, may you feel the love and prayers of all these people you have blessed and encouraged, especially in the coming days and weeks. We love you, and will continue to hold your family up in prayers! <3 Robin (Kaiser) Ediger
ReplyDeleteKristin, I don't know what to say. You're amazing. Thanks for everything. Love, Anna-Marie
ReplyDeleteYou are my hero miss Kristin! I don't know you personally but I feel I know you thru your journey. I pray for you and your family every day! I went to school with you for 1 year but we were not in the same grade. I also just found out that my fiance is your husband's cousin...small world!! I have read your blog and kept up with your fight...and what an amazing fight! You have put so much into perspective for me and I thank you! You have changed me and I am grateful! I will continue to pray for a miracle for you and your family but I will also pray for comfort and peace. please know that you have made a difference in so many peoples lives and we will never forget you!! God bless you!! Peace be with you!! Elizabeth Lloyd
ReplyDeletedid a little crying and fist shaking at the Lord in the shower yesterday, contending for miracles on your behalf. Glad he can take it when we throw tantrums... Praying many times a day for you and your family. Kim R
ReplyDeleteYou are an inspiration. Continuing to pray for a miracle and that God will wrap his arms of peace around you and your family.
ReplyDeleteRachel
Dear Kristin,
ReplyDeleteWe met and chatted a few times over making meals at cookdays with Angela Boon. I regret that we did not keep in touch, but please know that my boys and I have been keeping you and your family in our prayers. Your faith and love for your family is inspiring beyond words; you have inspired and encouraged me to be a better mom to my sons. My heart is breaking for the pain you and your family have endured. Words seem so inadequate; please forgive my bumbling. I want you to know above all that you are loved and held by many in prayer...♡hugs♡
Eileen Dorst
Good afternoon on this beautiful sunny Kristin-kind-of-day! Nature is singing about you today in glorious sunshine, bulbs are poking up through the ground, new leaves on the forsythia bush in my backyard, and blue blue blue sky decorated with the occasional fluff of a white cloud! Kristin, my friend, the LORD is your inheritance this day!
ReplyDeleteLamentations 3:22-25
New Living Translation (NLT)
22 The faithful love of the Lord never ends![a]
His mercies never cease.
23 Great is his faithfulness;
his mercies begin afresh each morning.
24 I say to myself, “The Lord is my inheritance;
therefore, I will hope in him!”
25 The Lord is good to those who depend on him,
to those who search for him.
Dear Mrs Erickson
ReplyDeleteIt's me, Olivia Candy, I just wish you the best and that you heal and feel better and have a great valentines day.
I know your struggling, but please know mloved puppy Zoey in heaven will be there when you need her and always stay with you
I love you
Love Olivia Candy