Life at the Friesen's

Riu Palace Pacifico

2012-01-08T19:39:00.003-06:00

In one week this is where Dave and I and 7 other friends
will be relaxing and enjoying our vacation!
Really looking forward to some sun and just taking a break!
I will post about our time there when we get back!

Missing Noah, Quinton and my Mom and Dad this Christmas season.

2011-12-05T17:58:00.002-06:00

Christmas In Heaven

www.youtube.com

Qinton Oliver Wall

2011-09-29T17:42:00.001-05:00

Quinton Oliver Wall

2011-09-21T08:08:00.001-05:00

From Jolene Friesen Wall
Quinton Oliver was born Tuesday September 20th at 6:39 pm weighing 5lbs and 8oz. He lived for 27 wonderful minutes during which he had one eye open, sneezed quite a few times ( apparently just like me:) and cuddled into me to get closer, it was amazing! Then peacefully went to be with the Lord and his big brother Noah. Thank you for all the prayers they really helped!

2011-09-14T18:34:00.001-05:00

The Will of God will never take you
Where the Grace of God cannot keep you
Where the Arms of God cannot support you
Where the Riches of God cannot support your needs
Where the Power of God cannot endow you.

The Will of God will never take you
Where the Spirit of God cannot work through you
Where the Wisdom of God cannot teach you
Where the Army of God cannot protect you
Where the Hands of God cannot mold you.

The Will of God will never take you
Where the Love of God cannot enfold you
Where the Mercies of God cannot sustain you
Where the Peace of God cannot calm your fears
Where the Authority of God cannot overrule you.

The Will of God will never take you
Where the Comfort of God cannot dry your tears
Where the Word of God cannot feed you
Where the Miracles of God cannot be done for you
Where the omnipresence of God cannot find you.

~ author unknown ~

Hillsong - still

2011-08-12T16:46:00.000-05:00

Wedding Day

2011-05-10T20:25:00.002-05:00

So as sad as it may seem, this is the only picture I have of Vikk & Chris' wedding!
Waiting on one of Vikk's friends to show us the ones she took. In this day and age of digital cameras I cannot believe that I am starving for pics!

They wedding was wonderful, a little cold but that is to be expected in March.
Vikk was a gorgeous bride! I know she would be!

More pics to come when I see some!

From Jolene and Hank

2011-03-30T20:46:00.002-05:00

Thank you to everyone who has prayed, loved and supported us as we waited for the ultrasound today. Unfortunately God has chosen to take this little one home to him when the time comes. The baby for sure has Meckel Gruber and will not make it much past delivery. This is so hard. Please continue to pray for us as we walk through this valley all over again... And we continue to pray for healing for our little one

Zander is One!

2011-02-18T21:10:00.005-06:00

Zander and Papa...a great team!

Hank, Jo and Zander in the Mayan Riviera Dec 23, 2010

Zander and Auntie Vikk relaxing at the resort

Z snuggling with Uncle Chris

Feb 7th was Zander's first birthday! time has really gone by so fast.
I had forgotten how much babies change every single day.
Life has been really great since this little guy was born. Holding him for the first time was an amazing miracle but little did I know that every day with him would be just that!
I love being a Nana and I hope Z feels the love.
Zander LOVES his Papa...I knew he would, how can a kid help but love a guy who will spend the whole day on the floor with him, playing!
It has been a joy to watch how he learns to interact with different people. Z would always cry with Vikki's fiance Chris and I kept telling Chris...just wait, in time he will be your best friend. Well, now he is always playing games with Chris across the supper table and can often be found sitting on his lap.
Even Uncle Pierre was able to hold him the other day!
Mostly he is not shy at all, just needs a few minutes to warm up to some people.
He is toddling around everywhere, done with nursing, getting teeth all the time it seems!
He was awesome in Mexico, everybody loved him!
The expressions that he has are priceless! I love watching him find new things in the house and just seeing what he will do with them!

Oh, and the personality that is coming through!
the other day Jo had us over for supper and I got ready to leave, Z crawls after me and waves and says "ta-ta"...but then Dave opened the door and walked out---Zander howled! He held out him hand and cried so hard his whole body shook! wow...he did not want Papa to leave!

I am really looking forward to going for walks with him this summer. He will not just sleep the whole time, I hope he loves the outdoors as much as he did last year!
Well that is a long rambling post, see you next time!

Noah's 2nd Birthday

2010-12-12T19:24:00.002-06:00

Today we remember our first Grandson Noah's birth.
He would be 2 and I wonder what he would be up to if he was with us!
This year for his birthday we got him a Living Gift.
500 little fishes will be sent to India for the mothers to tend to till they
are grown enough to feed their families.
I love the thought of little bellies being full because of our little Noah.
Our thoughts go out to all families who have Angles in Heaven...may the LORD comfort you all
on your special days and in the Christmas season.

the dress

2010-12-11T17:16:00.001-06:00

Today we picked up Vikk's wedding gown!
It fit her like it was sewn just for her! Beautiful!
Now to finish all the other plans!!

Snap Fitness

2010-11-18T18:37:00.002-06:00

So I finally did it, I started my free trial week at Snap.
I have gone 3 days and I do believe I will really enjoy it.
I just have to make sure that I go right after work.
Jo might join me and I am hoping Vikki will want to as well!
That gives me exactly 1 month and 1 day before we leave for Mexico!
I have been walking all summer and also using my elliptical at home since April 11th and I have lost a total of 11 lbs...slowly but surely!
I am not starving myself...just trying to be smart about what and how much I eat!
Feel free to keep me accountable with my working out!

Vikk's Shower

2010-11-18T18:34:00.002-06:00

Saturday the 13th of November we had a Tupperware shower for Vikk.
What a wonderful turnout! I think there were 26 ladies present!
Once all order, specials and bonuses and bookings were in place Vikk will have over 1400.00 in Tupperware! How cool is that!
I do not have pics yet:(

8 months

2010-10-23T18:33:00.004-05:00

He has learned to clap and does that when Daddy comes home from work

and when he is happy, which is most of the time!

oh and how he drools! his shirt is halfway soaked and he was over maybe 2 hours!

See the tiny tooth beside the turtle??

Thank you Lord for this blessing we call Zander David Wall!

Fender Bender Friday!

2010-10-23T18:16:00.006-05:00

Yes that is me standing by the Black Ford Edge!

I had a feeling before I even got into the Edge at work that I needed

to talk to God about safety!

I prayed that he would keep me safe and that I would not have an accident.

All the way on the drive to the Credit Union my thoughts were

"what would I do if I had an accident with a Meridian vehicle"

Well now I know. And God answered half of my prayer, whiplash is all I have.

I was waiting to turn left onto Mountain when I was schmucked from behind,

I never saw it coming! Apparently she did not see me on time either.

What a sweet girl, I felt so bad for her. English is not her first language, French is.

She did not understand half of what was said.

I am thankful I got to meet this young girl.

After Bernie picked me up and brought me back to work I went to fill

out a police report, she was still there waiting for a taxi.

I asked her if I could give her a ride home, she was so distraught.

She accepted and I brought her home.

After my chiro appointment today I feel much better, hope it stays that way!

God is Good, All the time!

Summer 2010

2010-09-08T19:18:00.003-05:00

It has been a while since I have posted...not really good at this!
Summer...almost gone again but it has been great!
What have been the highlights?
Vikk & Chris' engagement and planning of the wedding.
Spending time with the best Grandson ever, being able to walk, bike and just feeling better in general!
Jo has begun working for Constelation a few evenings and we have the pleasure of having Zander time! I LOVE sitting outside with him and just watching him...he loves being outside!
We went to Facon Lake for a Penner Campout. I love getting together with family! It makes me feel closer to my parents.
Harvest Festival was spent the best way possible...watching Zander so his Mom & Dad could enjoy the festival!
So, while that is not much, it has been a full summer. Thank you Jesus for that!

anniversaries & engagements!

2010-06-29T19:45:00.006-05:00

Today marks 25 years of marriage for Dave & I.

We did not do anything special today and that is the norm for us and we like it that way.

We are however going to Mexico in December and that is how we chose to celebrate!

Sunday night Christopher Patrick Andrusiek asked our daughter,

Victoria Danielle to be his wife and she said yes!

Guess what I did today...

2010-06-07T22:23:00.004-05:00

I booked us a vacation to Mexico for my cousin Jac & Jarret's wedding in December!

We will be celebrating Dave's 50th birthday and our 25th Anniversary as well!

Chris and Vikk will be going as well.

The only sad part is that Hank & Jo and Zander will not be able to go

as of right now, who knows...maybe it will work out somehow!

http://www.oceanturquesaresort.com

1 year and 5 months since Noah went to Heaven.

2010-05-12T21:15:00.001-05:00

Going for a walk...Zander is 3 months old.

2010-05-12T21:07:00.003-05:00

Music

2010-04-29T19:28:00.001-05:00

I have added a lot of songs to my Play List!

Some are there purely for memory sake and others I just LOVE!

Enjoy!

2010-04-04T22:11:00.003-05:00

It has been a long time again since I have posted...life sure gets busy!
Easter weekend is almost over and I for one am so thankful that Christ was willing to die on the cross and rose again so that my sins can be forgiven!

My life has been very full since little Zander David was born!
Oh how I love that little man!!!
I am still patiently waiting for his Mommy and Daddy to want an evening out so that we can have him to ourselves!
We have had the pleasure of watching him for about 2 hours last week while Jo helped Hank at the shop...he slept the whole time!!
He is such a blessing and such a content baby as well, we are all so thankful!

Spring is here and with that for me always comes the feeling of refreshing. My prayer is that I will have more energy this year, I have taken steps to help me in that regard and I hope they will pay off!

Well, this will be all for now, someday I will post pictures, I am kind of following Jo's lead on that.

Update...

2010-02-01T17:05:00.004-06:00

SO I was reminded today that I had not posted a blog for a long time! I guess there is someone checking it once in a while after all!

Dec 12/08 marked one year that Hank & Jolene's baby boy Noah Gabriel was born into the arms of Jesus.
Hank & Jo went to Grand Forks that weekend and asked if we would join them. Dave and I went for one day and night.
I think the the time leading up to an anniversary is sometimes harder than the actual day itself. We had a great day, talking about Noah, what he would have been doing if he were with us. WE also had the joy of shopping for the new baby boy that Hank & Jo are expecting for Feb 17Th of this year.

To commemorate Noah's 1st birthday I ordered a Grandmothers Bible.
It is full of great devotions for Nana's and prayers for the little ones.

I found that I missed Noah incredibly over the Christmas season. I kept missing that little one year old boy that could have been running around, touching the ornaments on the tree and squealing over the pretty presents!
I can imagine Noah having more fun with the boxes than the actual gifts!
We did have a great Christmas and I sometimes felt a little guilty that we were all so happy, but I am so thankful for where the Lord has brought Hank & Jo so far and has comforted the families.
God is good...all the time!

Novasure

2009-10-05T21:22:00.003-05:00

Friday September 25 I had a Novasure ablation done.
My reason for writing about this is that I want to know if any of you bloggers have had this procedure done and what your results have been.
I was supposed to do this a few years back but made the mistake and went online to research it and scared myself out of it!
Well, circumstances lead me to having it done and I am now waiting to see if this was the answer to my health issues.
My Dr's are just short of promising that my life will see a marked change for the better.
I would really like to hear about your experience if you are willing to share.
you can email me at vfriesen@hotmail.com

http://www.novasure.com/

a wreath for Noah

2009-09-20T18:13:00.007-05:00

Noah would be just over 9 months already!!

I have been wanting to make some kind of a

wreath for his grave

for a while but was not sure what to do.

One day I came up with the idea to make a toy wreath!

I went to the Dollarama and purchased a bunch of toys

and baby items and came up with this!

I put a stuffed Bunny at his grave for Easter,

but stuffed animals get very wet and dirty at a graveyard!

Beautiful

2009-09-18T23:04:00.001-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vjwIDelIWg

Like a bird without wings That longs to be flying,
Like a motherless child Left lonely and crying.
Like a song without words, Like a world without music,
I wouldn't know what to doI'd be lost without you
Watchin' over me.

(George sings harmonies here)

I get so lonely, when you're away
I count every moment, I wait every day,
Until you're home again And hug me so tight
That's when I know Everything is alright.

Like a bird without wings That longs to be flying,
Like a motherless childLeft lonely and crying.
Like a song without wordsLike a world without music,
I wouldn't know what to doI'd be lost without you
Watchin' over me.

(George sings harmonies here)

You're my guardian angel My light and my guide
Your hand on my shoulder And you by my side.
You make everything beautiful, You make me complete.
Everything in my world I lay at your feet...

Like a church with no steeple, Where a bell never rings.
In a town without people, Where no voice in the choir ever sings.
If a boat on the ocean Would be lost with no sail,
Then without your devotion Surely all that I dreamed of would fail.

(George doing harmonies)

Like a song without words Like a world without music,
I wouldn't know what to do I'd be lost without you
Watchin' over me I wouldn't know what to do
I'd be lost without you Watchin' over me

Two answers to prayer today

2009-09-08T20:51:00.004-05:00

The ultrasound went amazing!! Baby Wall is progressing like a 17 week old baby should be, we are so very thankful to our LORD for this tiny little person!

Congrats to Dave and Tina Letkeman on the birth of their granddaughter, Anna Claire. Her parents Heidi & Christopher, and the arrival next week of their chosen granddaughter, (Abeba) Abby Joy who's parents are Hilda & Chris!

Baby Wall

2009-09-06T22:48:00.005-05:00

So all of you have probably been waiting for word on this new grand baby of mine!

Hank & Jo are going in for another ultrasound Tuesday Sept 8th to take a look at the little ones kidneys and also get the results from the AFP blood test.

What we do know for sure is that Baby Wall has a beautifully shaped head, that is such a miracle already!

The Dr is pretty confident that all is well.

There is a chance that they will find out the baby's gender on Tuesday as well (if Baby cooperates) let the shopping begin!!!

I have purchased a highchair and playpen already!

I want to refinish a dresser that I used as a child and we used it for both our girls. Not sure if I should paint it white or the Superstore black...what do you think? I want to add a change table pad on top and then take out the top drawer to put in some baskets. I plan on using it a lot!

I have been having a lot of fun with the monthly gifts, month 2 she got a snugly like in this picture.

Month 3 I bought something like this to put into the tub for bath time.

I have already purchased the gift for the 4th month and now I have to wait over a week to give it to her!!

That is it for now, thank you to all of you that have prayed for this new baby! WE are all blessed to have you in our lives!

Calling on all Prayer Warriors

2009-07-02T21:31:00.002-05:00

I have just heard of another family, Nathan & Crystal, that have had devastating news about their unborn baby, please join me in prayer for them.

Another Grandchild!

2009-06-23T21:26:00.002-05:00

Now that Jo has posted the news on her blog I can let all my friends know that our second grandbaby is due to arrive February 12, 2010!
When you think about Hank & Jolene and their new babe...please pray that all will be well this time around.

prayers needed

2009-06-12T17:08:00.002-05:00

Today twin baby boys were born, Jaxon and Chase.
They were born too early and went to be with JESUS.
Please pray for their Mom and their Grandparents who are very sad right now.

Dreams are very hard to let go of.

It has been four months since Noah went to live with Jesus

2009-04-12T16:43:00.004-05:00

We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will

bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.

For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.

After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.

Therefore encourage each other with these words.

2009-04-11T10:22:00.003-05:00

Thank you Jesus for being willing to go to the cross and be crucified so that I can live forever!

Thank you that for that reason we can KNOW that we will see

our precious Noah again when we get to Heaven.

Thank you that you know how much we miss this little man and that you comfort us and allow us to see all the wonders that happened because of his life!

Thank you for my husband, Dave who has stuck by me through a very hard year.

Thank you for Hank & Jolene and the testimony that they have lived since

they heard that Noah would not stay with them.

We know that our will and Yours don't always match up so

we ask your will in their future family.

Thank you for Vikk and the glue she has been to all of us!

Watch over Victoria & Chris, guide them in their relationship with You

and each other as they are thinking about a future together.

Prayers needed

2009-03-23T22:01:00.002-05:00

Please take some time to click on my MckMiracle button and pray for Baby Stellan and his family.

Also pray for Jason & Nicole and big sister Rowan and their unborn son/brother, Kyle Joseph who might have MGS.

2009-03-23T21:44:00.002-05:00

I just finished another great Bible Study with my daughters tonight!
Our church offered the Beth Moore "Esther, it's tough being a woman" study and it really made me think about things going on in our lives.
I can see how the Lord has taken events in our lives that are so very hard and is turning them around into beauty.
I am so thankful that I have been able to share these studies with Jo and Vikk, what a special time with my girls!
Thank you also to the ladies at the EMMC Winkler for your time and willingness to serve the Lord in this wonderful way! May the Lord bless you.

check out Jo's Birth Story on her blog

2009-02-15T15:43:00.000-06:00

You Are Invited...If the weather will cooperate!

2009-02-08T21:16:00.002-06:00

To Jolene's Tupperware Party
Tuesday, February 10th
7:30pm
1490 Roblin Blvd West

How I miss this little man, it feels like forever already:(

2009-02-03T21:00:00.001-06:00

2009-01-22T22:14:00.001-06:00

If you had not have fallen
Then I would not have found you
Angel flying too close to the ground

Chorus:
I knew someday that you would fly away
For love's the greatest healer to be found
So leave me if you need to
I will still remember

Angel flying too close to the ground

Fly on, fly on past the speed of sound
I'd rather see you up
Than see you down
Leave me if you need to
I will still remember

Angel flying too close to the ground

Wishing you all a Happy and Blessed New Year

2009-01-01T01:04:00.002-06:00

2008-12-24T17:50:00.001-06:00

Merry Christmas to my blogger friends, please feel free to print this card.

To some of you...your cards are in the mail so maybe

hold off for a bit over a week (holiday snail mail)

Safe in the arms of Jesus, Safe on His gentle breast

2008-12-22T20:22:00.003-06:00

2008-12-20T09:04:00.005-06:00

A dear niece sent me the name of the book mentioned in the post below

"Holding on to Hope"

as I researched it I found this daily devotional as well.

For more info on Nancy Guthrie check out this website.

http://www.nancyguthrie.com/

About joy and sorrow . . .

To experience sorrow does not eliminate joy. In fact, I've come to think that sorrow actually deepens our capacity for joy—that as our lows are lower, so are our highs higher. Deep sorrow expands our ability to feel deeply. We feel sadder than we ever knew we could, sadder than we think we can survive. But our sorrow prepares us to experience a more satisfying and solid joy than we've ever known before. When joy surfaces, it allows us to see that deep beneath the chaos and catastrophe is the strong current of confidence that we can be content in the sovereign hands of God.

About the purpose of pain . . .

God uses the physical pain that does not subside, the relational pain that puts us on edge, the emotional pain that brings us to tears, to get our attention and to turn our attention toward him. When pain invades the busyness of our routine existence, it insists that we reexamine our assumptions and reevaluate our appetites and affections, doesn't it? Pain often affords us—or imposes on us—time for reflection. If we will accept it, pain can give us the gift of reconnection with God, a fresh intimacy with him, a passionate nearness to him. Pain brings us to our knees. We begin with prayers for our pain to be removed. And as he works in us, our prayers change so that we begin to ask that the pain will be redeemed.

Holding on to Hope By Nancy Guthrie

2008-12-20T08:53:00.002-06:00

Q. What is the most important message you want this book to give to people who are hurting?

A. Instead of urging them to pray away their suffering, I want to encourage them to look for God in the midst of it. If God has allowed suffering into your life, it is for a significant purpose. So rather than just focusing on getting rid of it, seek to discover God’s purpose in your pain, to submit to his plan and his purpose, to please him in how you respond to adversity. You have an incredible opportunity to glorify God just by your simple trust in him during these dark days. He will bring you from the darkness into the light, so look for him in the darkness.

One Week in Heaven

2008-12-19T09:12:00.003-06:00

It is hard to believe that a whole week has gone by since our grand baby Noah went to live with Jesus...oh how glad I am that we have faith that we WILL see him again!

Life continues on and the focus has been to be of help to Jolene & Hank when they need it.
Hank has his own business and has been back to work a few hours a day.
Jo told me that she had done 4 loads of laundry and the dishes yesterday!
I told her that is what I am at home for, but she wants to do something. Most Moms are so busy with a newborn that they cannot think of doing anything else but she has to much quiet time on her hands.

Please continue to pray for both Hank and Jolene.
What an amazing prayer group we have surrounding them! So many people/Bible Study groups have told them or us that they are praying!

Please pray for me as well, I have a husband and another child at home that have been an amazing help to me and they need me just as much.
I need to learn how to share my focus on Vikk and Dave as well.

Thank you so very much.
When you need us to pray for you all...let us know!

Pictures

2008-12-18T10:43:00.003-06:00

To see pictures of my beautiful grandson Noah,
check our Noah's Mommy's blog on my sidebar!

Specific Prayer Requests

2008-12-14T06:29:00.002-06:00

Jo had a bad experience with her epidural and that has left great anxiety, she is afraid to fall asleep. Please pray that the Peace of God would surround her and Hank that they can get some much needed sleep.

The funeral is today, please pray for physical strength for Jolene, she hurt her leg during delivery and has a difficult time with walking.

Pray for Hank, I cannot even imagine what his emotions must be like having to watch Jolene labour and give birth and then not be able to take Noah home.

Pray for sensitivity of family and friends...we do mess up and say the wrong things sometimes. Help us to know when silence is the best option.

Pray for family driving out in the bad weather.

For Pastor Rob.

Noah Gabriel Wall

2008-12-12T12:32:00.006-06:00

It is with great joy and sorrow that we announce

the birth of our first Grandson, Noah Gabriel

He was born Friday, December 12th at 3:35 am

He took his first breath in Heaven

Our little guy was a whopping 7 lbs 14.5 oz 19 in long!

Mommy & Daddy are resting.

Considering that they had to give him back to Jesus a few minutes before he was delivered,
we think they are doing okay.

Thank you to all of you for your prayers. Please do not stop.

Memorial service TBA

Matthew 5:4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

Noah's Christmas booties.

2008-12-06T12:57:00.000-06:00

Life...

2008-12-06T11:46:00.008-06:00

So... this is a long mostly picture post.

We went to Lethbridge, Alberta in October for Vic & Marianne's wedding.

Here are the girls geting ready!

Vic & Marianne Friesen

Dave and his brother John, Vic's Dad

Enjoying family, friends and Rumoli!

Sisters...

Nana & Papa Friesen spending quality

time with Noah while we can!

November 16th

I think that is the earliest that our tree has gone up!

The guys version of tree decorating...

untill they start to see empty spots!

Dave & Verna

Hank & Jolene and Noah

Victoria & Christopher

Jolene at 40 weeks pregnant, wow, you look amazing!

Nana-in-waiting!

Dave, checking the Canadian Tire flyer!

How Great Thou Art

2008-11-30T08:53:00.003-06:00

http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=2Q8ESzK5pCw

2008-11-23T18:23:00.002-06:00

Congratulations to the cast of Little Women.

Thank you for bringing back a piece of my childhood!

A job well done!!!

Go Abe!!

2008-11-23T14:23:00.002-06:00

For the Lord your God is living among you.

He is a mighty Savior.

He will take delight in you with gladness.

With His love, He will calm all your fears.

He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.

Zephaniah 3:17

Blessing Shower

2008-11-16T22:24:00.003-06:00

I want to thank all of you who made it to the shower

and to all of those that could not make it, for their prayers and support.

The turnout was more than I had dreamed!

Jolene was Blessed with songs, poems, memory making items,

a spa package for both Mom and Dad

and even a handmade toy box from her 7 year old cousin!

The guest of honor, Noah's Mommy

and her 2 cousins, Chantal & Kaitlyn

Some of our guests... my pics are all blurry:(

Tonight was the last Bible Study and Hilda, our leader asked all the women to pray for Jolene, Hank and Noah as well as another lady in the group and her family going through a very hard time in their life. What a special time, I loved hearing the word 'baby' all over the room!

Just over 2 weeks left...then we meet our Grandson!

To our blogger/ praying friends

2008-10-27T18:26:00.004-05:00

Shower of Blessing

You are invited to
Bless Jolene
With poem, verse and song
Or a gift just for Mom.

Do not be afraid
If in your eye there will be a tear,
Noah Gabriel
To all is very dear

All Jolene’s dearest friends
Will be gathered on this night
To show her that even in life’s darkest hours
With God and friends there is light

This blessing will take place on
Saturday, November 15th
7:00pm@ 1490 Roblin Blvd West, Winkler

For those of you that are interested,
a gift box for Jolene

Will be available to collect for a
Spa Package from Charity Faye Spa

(We kindly ask that you do not bring gifts for Noah at this time)

Dear Noah...

2008-10-23T21:52:00.002-05:00

Today you are 34 weeks old in your Mommy's tummy! It seemed like it would take forever for you to be born and now we are 6 short weeks away from meeting you face to face.

We were so excited when your Mommy and Daddy told us that you were going to join our family, then we had some very sad news when you were about 22 weeks old. The Doctors tell us that you will be born to go live with Jesus in Heaven. I know for you it is the most amazing thing, but you will be missed so very much. We have learned to still be so thrilled with each move you make, hiccups and all. You are so much alive, we all LOVE you and we celebrate your life!

Instead of a nursery at your Mommy and Daddy's house you will have one in a mansion in heaven, do you know how I know that? That is what Jesus says in the Bible, He is preparing it as we speak!

I guess He will be telling you all the Bible stories that I wanted to read to you. Imagine hearing them from Jesus Himself!

You are such a special boy, Heaven will be even closer once that will be your home.

We don't understand why you can't stay, but we trust the Lord with your life. I still believe and hope that Jesus will give us the miracle of healing your body, but will understand if he needs you with him.

I want to tell you my favorite Bible verse, it is in Jeremiah 29: 11-13. It talks about the plans God has for your life and ours and how He wants the best for us but we have to seek him with our whole heart.

We will meet you again in Heaven because we have all asked Jesus to be our Savior and are living our lives as best as we can for Him.

So, until your birthday we will enjoy your kicks and I so look forward to holding you in my arms and kissing your sweet face and telling you what a perfect grandson God has blessed me with!

Goodnight sweet Noah

Love Nana

Do we scare him???

2008-10-06T22:08:00.000-05:00

Powerful Women

Live your life in such a way
that when your feet
hit the floor in the morning
Satan shudders and says,
'Oh, shit. She's awake.'

Thanksgiving Weekend

2008-10-06T21:41:00.002-05:00

So... the weekend before we go to Alberta we are going to

Thief River Falls, Seven Clans Casino and Resort

with my family for Thanksgiving.

We started going away for this weekend after my Mom passed away two years ago

and we were left 'orphans' (our Dad passed away in 2000)

It is a way to stay connected as a family and relax.

MOVING SALE !!!!!

2008-10-03T10:19:00.002-05:00

# 8 parkland Cres. Winkler MB

1 year old Stainless Steel fridge & Ceramic stove

chest frezeer, upright freezer

bakers/wine rack

black & stainless steel coffe and end tables

wall unit

bike

and much more...

Mini Family Vacation

2008-09-30T19:03:00.003-05:00

Well it is official, I have just booked our whole family of 5 at the
Ramada Inn in Lethbridge for a long weekend.
We are going to a wedding and also to visit family.
I am hopeing and praying all goes well with Jo and Noah.

2008-09-28T20:00:00.004-05:00

Praise You in This Storm

words by Mark Hall/music by Mark Hall and Bernie Herms

I was sure by now,God, that You would have reached down

and wiped our tears away,

stepped in and saved the day.

But once again, I say amen

and it's still raining

as the thunder rolls

I barely hear You

whisper through the rain,

"I'm with you"and as Your mercy falls

I raise my hands and praise

the God who gives and takes away.

Chorus:

And I'll praise you in this storm

and I will lift my hands

for You are who You are

no matter where I am

and every tear I've cried

You hold in your hand

You never left my side

and though my heart is torn

I will praise You in this storm

I remember when I stumbled in the wind

You heard my cry to You

and raised me up again

my strength is almost gone how can I carry on

if I can't find You

and as the thunder rolls

I barely hear You whisper through the rain

"I'm with you"

and as Your mercy falls

I raise my hands and praise

the God who gives and takes away

Chorus

I lift my eyes onto the hills

where does my help come from?

My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth

I lift my eyes onto the hills

where does my help come from?

My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth

Chorus

2008-09-28T19:53:00.002-05:00

"Lifesong"

Empty hands held high

Such small sacrifice

If not joined with my life

I sing in vain tonight

May the words I say

And the things I do

Make my lifesong sing

Bring a smile to You

Let my lifesong sing to You

I want to sign Your name

to the end of this day

Knowing that my heart was true

Let my lifesong sing to You

Lord I give my life

A living sacrifice

To reach a world in need

To be Your hands and feet

So may the words I say

And the things I do

Make my lifesong sing

Bring a smile to You

HallelujahHallelujah

Let my lifesong sing to You

Blogging Family!

2008-09-28T17:42:00.005-05:00

So it seems I have finally gotten my girls into the blogger world.

We will see how they enjoy that.

Today is a very lazy day for me and I have needed one of those for a long time now already. I will be going 40 hours a week for a while now, things are getting so busy at work that I just can't do both my jobs well with the hours I had. If I know that I have so much work I can't relax at home anyway. So...we'll see how this goes.

Thanks to all of you who are praying for my kids and Noah. It means the world to us and I know that the prayers of all of you is what is holding them up.

A special prayer request would be that they find a Dr. in Winkler/Morden that will be comfortable with assisting with the delivering of Noah. I don't know that anyone here has ever has a patient with MG. Jo does not want to have him in Winnipeg if at all possible.

Baby Noah Blog!

2008-09-25T12:55:00.001-05:00

Jolene has started her blog this is her address

http://joleneandhank.blogspot.com/

Stepping UP

2008-09-23T20:47:00.004-05:00

Jolene, Victoria and I started a Beth Moore Bible study at our church yesterday.

I am really looking forward to learning and studying in a different way together with my girls!

6 months

2008-09-04T20:00:00.004-05:00

Today Jo is 6 months pregnant with Noah. I want to update you all on what the ultrasound results were last Friday.

It turns out that Noah has Meckel-Gruber Syndrome, not Anencephaly.

This was not very good news for Hank and Jolene. Noah's life expectancy remains the same but Hank and Jo's chance to have another baby with MGS is 1 in 4.

Please continue to pray for them that the Lord will bring about comfort and peace.

Jo is now on maternity leave, she is an esthetitian and was doing mainly pedicures and it was becoming to much to be bent over all the time.

Still hoping to post some US pics. Our little guy has 6 toes on each foot!

twenty-six week ultrasound

2008-08-30T10:51:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I had the pleasure of seeing my grandson, Noah on an ultrasound! Wow!

I will praise you; for Noah is fearfully and wonderfully made:
marvelous are your works; and that my soul knows right well.

Picture may follow :)

25 Weeks

2008-08-24T18:41:00.005-05:00

Vikk having some hands on time with Noah and Mommy!

Vikk felt him kick for the first time this week!

2008-08-17T09:27:00.003-05:00

Jolene is now 24 weeks pregnant with Noah. She only missed 3 days of work and 2 of those were appointments. Thank you for your prayers. They went to see a specialist in Winnipeg who told them that he delivers 5 anencephaly babies a year!
She found an online support group of women that have had anencephaly babies and carried to term or Moms currently carry and anen baby. I have also joined. Jo says it is so good to be able to communicate with others who have or are going through this.

This morning in church our pastor said that God uses, allows, even causes - change, turmoil, disappointment to mold us into the person that we otherwise would never be.

Spiritual growth occurs within the context of frustration, suffering or challenge.

When things are bad in our life, 3 things are true
-God is still alive and well
-God knows what He is doing
-God is still with us.

My prayer is that we will all grow in our faith through little Noah's life.

Miss Congeniality!

2008-08-09T23:35:00.003-05:00

Definition of Congeniality

1.
The state or quality of being congenial; natural affinity; adaptation; suitableness.
If congeniality of tastes could have made a marriage happy, that union should have been thrice blessed.
- Motley.
2.
Compatibility between persons.
3.
The personality trait of being friendly to a conspicuous degree.
4.
The personality trait of being likable or pleasant.

Talent: A foxtrot with Dad to this Faith Hill song.

2008-08-09T23:29:00.003-05:00

A little girl, a little small for her age

A little too slow for the field day race

Momma's waiting at the finish line

And wipes the teardrops from her eyes

She says, "You did just fine honey, that's okay "

Sometimes life's just that way "

You're gonna lose the race from time to time "

But you're always gonna find "

You can't lose me "Bet your life "

I am here and I will always be

"Just a wish away "Wherever you go "

No matter how far

"My love is where you are

"You won't be lost if you believe

"You can't lose me"

Momma use to say "Girl it won't be long

'"Til it's time to go out on your own "

Chase your dreams find your place in life

"I know you'll do just fine"

When that day finally came

There were things she needed to but could not say

So I whispered softly as I wiped

The tears from Momma's eyes

"You can't lose me "Bet your life

"I am here and I will always be "

Just a wish away

"Wherever I go "No matter how far "

My love is where you are "

You won't be lost if you believe "

You can't lose me"

The parade

2008-08-09T23:20:00.002-05:00

Queen, Princess???

2008-08-05T21:47:00.002-05:00

This week is the Harvest Festival and Vikk is in the Queen Pageant.
It will be a busy fun filled weekend and we wish you all the best, Vikk.
In our hearts you have always been our Princess.
Who knows, maybe you will be the Queen of Winkler for 1 year!!!
Enjoy the weekend, don't stress to much and make many great memories.
We love you.

Blessed Be Your Name

2008-08-04T15:33:00.007-05:00

Blessed be your name

In the land that is plentiful

Where the streams of abundance flow

Blessed be your name

When I'm found in the desert place

Though I walk through the wilderness

Blessed be your name

Every blessing you pour out,

I turn back to praise

When the darkness closes in, Lord

Still I will say...

Blessed be the name of the Lord

Blessed be your name

Blessed be the name of the Lord

Blessed be your glorious name

Blessed be your name

When the sun's shining down on me

When the world's all as it should be

Blessed be your name

On the road marked with suffering

Though there's pain in the offering

Blessed be your name

Every blessing you pour out,

I turn back to praise

When the darkness closes in, Lord

Still I will say...

Blessed be the name of the Lord

Blessed be your name

Blessed be the name of the Lord

Blessed be your glorious name

You give and take away

My heart will choose to say

Lord, Blessed be your name

This is the song Hank & Jolene have both had in their heads

since they found out about Noah.

IT'S A BOY!!!

2008-08-02T10:20:00.004-05:00

Hank and Jo were in Winnipeg on Friday for a LOT of testing and they were blessed to be able to find out that they are having a BOY!

Joy in Sorrow!

His name is Noah Gabriel Wall.

Noah means peaceful, comfort - Hebrew
Gabriel means God is my might/strength - Hebrew

meanings vary a bit from site to site

the news did not change except that the Specialist does believe she will carry to term.

Prayer requests:

*for them to feel the peace that passes all understanding
*for the LORD to take away the fear of the unknown
*that their faith will grow stronger
*for them to find the joy even in the sorrow during this pregnancy
*strength to rejoin the world and go back to work
*sensitivity and comfort from the people they meet

Please Pray for Baby Wall and Hank & Jolene

2008-07-30T21:32:00.004-05:00

Jolene had her routine ultrasound today and they were given very sad news.
Their baby will not live. I found an artical that will give you and idea of what they will be facing.

Anouk
18 July 2000 - 19 July 2000 On the 18th July 2000, our fourth child, Anouk, was born. Thirteen hours later she died. Today, I will try to write down what we lived through with her. Everything was normal until the 20th week of the pregnancy, but by the time of the main scan, the gynecologist noticed a fibroma on my uterus, which could be dangerous during the delivery. Because he was not sure, he sent me to a specialist at the CHUV hospital. Other than the fibroma, all was well. Everything but the head was able to be examined by the gynecologist, but I knew they could do that at the CHUV, so I was not worried. Two weeks later I met the ultrasonic specialist Dr. Vial. Although he did not mention a fibroma, the examination was longer than usual. "I am seriously worried about the head," he said. "Your child suffers from a very serious malformation called anencephaly. This means that the cranial bone and the skin are missing...

Please Pray for streangth.

Two years ago today, and just as happy =]

2008-07-22T17:39:00.002-05:00

20 Weeks!

2008-07-17T18:02:00.003-05:00

Halfway there to meeting our little Grandbaby!

Mama and Baby Wall are doing great and so is Daddy!

Birthdays

2008-07-01T17:24:00.002-05:00

Happy birthday to:

Dennis - brother July 1

Alexander - nephew July 2 (sixteen)

Kaitlyn - niece July 3

Lorne - brother July 18

23rd Anniversary

2008-07-01T17:22:00.003-05:00

June 29th

This is Jo's Grad and also the day she got her promise ring!

2008-06-30T12:40:00.001-05:00

GRAD 2008

2008-06-30T11:54:00.012-05:00

June 24th was Graduation Day for Victoria Danielle Friesen!

When my babies were born this was one of the dreams I had for them and now both daughters have graduated! (I will post some of Jolene later) I am not great with words so I will post pictures and write a bit about them!

Vikk and her boyfriend, Chris

Vikk and her sister Jolene (mother of my Grandchild!)

The church pics just never turn out for me!

The Grad in her Dress!

Old Hollywood

The proud Father

and Mom

Family & Friends

Victoria Danielle

2008-06-07T11:00:00.006-05:00

This is Vikk at about 8 months old.

She was born June 1, 1990

If you look closely at the pic you will see she has her older sister trapped!

I do not have newborn pics of her on the computer so this has to do!

This is our girl now, all grown up!

We thank the Lord for the amazing woman she has become.

This girl has a real gift of making people feel loved!

May the Lord bless you and keep you,

may He make His face to shine upon you and give you peace.

Happy 18th year

Jeremiah 29: 11-13

Hank and Jolene are expecting a baby!

2008-05-09T19:25:00.004-05:00

"You saw me before I was born.

Every day of my life was recorded in Your book.

Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed."
Psalm 139:16

To Wenona, a Mommy-in-Waiting

2008-05-05T10:15:00.005-05:00

From the Beginning...Author Unknown

Mothers give the greatest gift,that we on earth can receive.

A life to live and love to give;the day she does conceive.

She carries me close, inside her.Her heartbeat I do hear.

Her voice sounds like Angels singing-The first sweet sound I hear.

Her touch is; Oh so gentle.So secure I feel inside.

Only wondering how much longer,in her womb I must abide.

Then the day comes,when I no longer need to stay.

I only want to be outside-in her arms I wish to lay.

I twist I turn,I push I shove,I open my eyes and look above.

So scared I feel, I just want to hide,then her voice I hear,so close by my side.

Then I see her-The most Beautiful sight I've seen,

reaching out for me- her eyes full of tears,yet still a happy gleam.

I snuggle and cuddle,as close as I can.

As she kisses me gently,and then takes me by my little hand.

I love her instantly,as much as my small heart can bare.

Bundled up in her arms;I grasp a strand of her soft hair.

I wrap it in my hand, So, so very tight

wanting to make sure that she is with me throughout the night.

I settle in quickly,and slowly drift off to sleep.

As my mother carefully watches over me,and counts each toe on my feet.

I see her in my dreams,I feel her in my heart.

And I know this feeling will be here, in life,even if we are apart.

So Mother, when you think of me,know that this is true;

When I think of Undying Love,Mother I am thinking of YOU!

happy 1st birthday cassidy emma

2008-04-09T18:34:00.001-05:00

2008-04-06T21:28:00.004-05:00

I have taken on the responsibility of HR Assistant for one year

while a co-worker goes on mat leave.

Please pray for me as I learn this new position, that I will do it well.

Waiting...

2008-03-29T18:43:00.000-05:00

2008-03-23T21:12:00.000-05:00

How Deep the Father's Love

2008-03-21T14:54:00.006-05:00

How deep the Father's love for us,
How vast beyond all measure
That He should give His only Son
To make a wretch His treasure
How great the pain of searing loss,
The Father turns His face away
As wounds which mar the chosen One,
Bring many sons to glory

Behold the Man upon a cross,
My sin upon His shoulders
Ashamed I hear my mocking voice,
Call out among the scoffers
It was my sin that held Him there
Until it was accomplished
His dying breath has brought me life
I know that it is finished

I will not boast in anything
No gifts, no power, no wisdom
But I will boast in Jesus Christ
His death and resurrection
Why should I gain from His reward?
I cannot give an answer
But this I know with all my heart
His wounds have paid my ransom

6 ways to stretch your budget

2008-03-10T11:55:00.001-05:00

Written by Francine L. Huff
This article is courtesy of HomeLife.
Determined to be a good steward of your finances? Repetition will help. Use the following guide to begin changing your worst money habits.
Avoid Overspending
One of the main reasons people have financial problems is they live above their means. Do you save for purchases you want, or do you have an “I-need-it-now” mentality that causes you to overspend and assume debt? If you constantly spend more than you earn, you can’t expect to get out of debt and to build savings. Avoid the trap of overspending.

Enjoy this article? Subscribe to HomeLife
“Pray before you spend.
When something’s a legitimate need, God will provide. How often do we take matters into our own hands and spend impulsively before asking God to furnish it for us?” writes Randy Alcorn of Eternal Perspective Ministries (http://www.epm.org/).
Tithe Faithfully
Practicing good stewardship includes tithing. Proverbs 3:9 instructs, “Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops” (NIV). Most likely you don’t have crops to give back as firstfruits, but you do have an income and resources God has provided.
Giving tithes back to God is an act of faith that shows you acknowledge Him as Lord over your resources. Tithing regularly also trains you to be more disciplined with money and obedient to God’s will. Whether you make $30,000 or $300,000, forming a consistent plan of giving will help you get on the right financial track.
Dump the Debt
Americans carry a total of about $711 billion in credit card debt. Financial institutions are eager to hand out even more credit cards. (The average credit card balance in the United States is a shocking $9,000.) Getting out of debt means being proactive and forming an action plan for the long haul.
The first rule for dumping debt is to quit spending money you don’t have. If you’re using credit cards to pay for basic living expenses, such as food, utilities, or housing costs, you need to increase your income or cut spending. Analyze spending patterns to see where you may be overspending or wasting money.
Make a plan to pay for housing expenses and other necessary bills first before splurging on extras. If your income isn’t enough to cover expenses, consider getting a second job or starting a part-time, home-based business.
Pay Bills on Time
Paying bills late can result in excessive fees that hurt an already shaky financial situation. Late fees for credit card payments can cost around $35 per incident, and those charges can really add up. Avoid late fees by setting up a calendar of due dates for your bills or paying them the day they arrive.
If you mail payments, make sure you send them early enough to arrive before the due date. Even payments that are just a few hours late may be assessed late fees. If you send payments electronically, make sure you read the rules. Banks differ on how many days it actually takes for payments to be processed.
Build Savings
Putting aside money for emergencies, retirement, or large purchases doesn’t have to be painful. By setting up an automatic savings plan, you can put away money as soon as you receive a paycheck. Choose a realistic amount you know you can stick to each month.
Ideally, you’ll save 10 percent of your income, tithe 10 percent, and use the rest to pay your expenses. It may take a while to work up to those amounts, but even if you only can afford to put aside a tiny amount, do it. The smallest amount of money put away on a consistent basis will add up over time.
Follow God’s Plan
The world’s view of money doesn’t always line up with God’s Word. Choose financial advisors who understand this distinction and your commitment to godly financial principles (Ps. 37:5).

Our walk in Old PV

2008-02-23T21:12:00.011-06:00

Checking the map for the restaurants in Old PV.

At a restaurant in PV I think it was called the Cafe de Angels, Awesome Mexican food!

Pipi's, they make the guacamole right in front of you, bring tip money!
Margaritas cost more than the meals!! Henry paid the Mariachis to play for us!
A very colorful place.
Hailing the oldest bus possible was a treat for my brother! Not so much for our backs!

Marriage Seminar

2008-02-16T18:03:00.003-06:00

Dave and I attended this conference today and although it is a lot to absorb in one day; it was good. Our goal it to work on the communication.

REAL Marriage is a one-day conference that gives you the answers you need for the very real problems you are facing in your marriage. This dynamic, media driven event is also interactive, you and your spouse will work through projects to get or keep your relationship on track.This is a chance for you to transform your marriage by discovering what real commitment, real communication, real companionship and real closeness really look like.
For more information on upcoming conferences please see dates/locations or contact us at info@familylifecanada.org.

Information Sheet (details on hosting a conference in .pdf format)
Planning Information (details on planning a conference in .pdf format)

TOPICS
Real Commitment
Keeping your promise in a world that doesn't know how. Discover what causes married couples to be happier, live longer, have more wealth and have a better sex life.
Real Communication
Keeping the lines open when facing a lost connection. Discover a dynamic process of understanding that keeps your relationship vibrant and alive.
Real Companionship
To have and to hold and to keep holding on. You'll be surprised to discover what you will learn.
Real Closeness
Stoking the flames of red hot monogamy! Discover how to make sex the gift you both enjoy.
Real Change
Finding God in ways you never thought possible. Discover how your experience with God transforms your marriage.

Valentine

2008-02-15T12:14:00.003-06:00

For God so loVed the world,

That He gAve

his onLy

BegottEn

SoN

That whosoever

Believeth In Him

Should Not perish,

But have Everlasting life.'

John 3:16

Dave and his sibblings...all 13 of them!

2008-02-14T10:25:00.001-06:00

Can you guess which one is my husband?

Oh there are a few doubles in here!

Hank & Jolene

2008-02-14T10:10:00.001-06:00

This was last Valentine's Day as well, we made supper for our girls and their significant others! One of whom is no longer with us =[

What a Sweetheart!

2008-02-14T09:50:00.005-06:00

When I was a kid in school, I was usually the one with the least cards in my Valentine's Pouch! I was a VERY shy child and that = few friends!

I must have mentioned this a time or two to my kids and this is the surprise I got last Valentines Day!! Notice that they are the Stawberry Shortcake cards!! She must be almost as old as I am!!

Grad Dress Shopping

2008-02-09T15:09:00.000-06:00

Yesterday Vikk, Jo and I went to Winnipeg to look for a grad dress for Victoria. We had an awesome time and we only went to three stores.
She found a dress (the first one she tried on) but we purchased it at the third store! At the first store it was $529.00 at the second it was $499.00 and at the third it was $450.00! Amazing that it went down in price, plus in the end the manager gave us a great discount because we bought four dresses for Jo's wedding there!
She went with a specific color and style in mind. I think she got the style, but the color is so very different, it is the perfect dress for the perfect daughter!
I will post pics of some of the dresses she tried on, but you will have to wait till June to see the one she choose!
For the record, we purchased at Chantal's, and lunch was at the sandwich place right across the street.

My Baby...a Bridesmaid

2008-01-27T20:19:00.001-06:00

Upgraded to the Crown Paradise Club *****

2008-01-26T22:20:00.001-06:00

Tuesday morning we wanted to walk into Bucerias to do some shopping. While the others were waiting for Dave and I; they were asked by the resort manager if we wanted to move to the Crown Paradise Club for the rest of our stay in Mexico! We we had just walked the beach in front of that resort the other day and said how we would have liked to try their sister resort the Crown Paradise! It did not take us long to make this move and we got a bottle of tequila and 2 shirts and taxi fare to boot!! PV here we come!It was a good move and we had a great time there, i would definitely recommend this resort to a family, great kids aqua park!