I am a 38 yr old mother of 9 beautiful children on earth (and 5 more in heaven). Yes, they are all mine. Yes, I gave birth to each of them. Yes, they all have the same father. Yes, I know what causes this. (I get those questions A LOT!) :0)

My youngest daughter (Bella) has down syndrome, CHD & PAH. Three of my children have ADHD and one has dyslexia. I have four girls and five boys. It sounds like we are nearly even BUT it is kind-of deceiving! I had girl, boy, girl and then four boys ina row (plus 1 MC and 2 boys born still) before finally having two more girls!! So, for a long time the boys out-numbered the girls.  Jan. 2, 2009, I had a 2nd MC - and it's been a hard loss.  June 29, 2009, we lost another little boy.  He was born still while we were on vacation in Florida.  His name is Blade, for his passing has pierced our hearts.

Bella had OHS, March 11, 2008 and did AMAZING!  She was home in 6 days.  She has Nystagmus and had stents put in her eyes, due to blocked tear ducts, in Aug. of 2008.  They put tubes in her ears at the same time.  It was supposed to be a routine surgery, but wasn't.  She has been through a lot -  and more is ahead.

I home-school, am the worship leader at my church and have a music ministry (http://www.hideandkeep.com/) putting Scripture to song.

I am excited to meet moms who "have been there" and others who are just starting the visit to "Holland", as I am.

I hurt when others hurt and I rejoice when they rejoice.  

I have a wonderful, supportive husband who works his fanny off for us. He loves to play with the kids and they adore him.

We are so blessed!