Wednesday, November 10, 2010

~Being Ever So Grateful ~ What Truly Matters? ~ Making Changes~

Hello my dear friends. It has been a while. My last post was about my husband’s leg injury. Thank you all for the kind emails checking up on him! He is feeling MUCH better! Thank goodness.

ALOT has happened since my last post. As some of you already know, my daughter and I were in a car accident. We were hit by a Durango that ran a red light (going 45-50 mph). The Durango hit on my side, we spun around causing a van to hit my daughter’s passenger side door. We were both wearing our seatbelts, as we always do. The Durango went on to hit a semi truck stopped at the red light. So it was to say the least, a four vehicle nightmare. My daughter and I were taken by ambulance to the hospital. I had a baseball sized contusion on my forehead from hitting my drivers  window and my daughter had abdominal pain from the seatbelt. We were both given CAT scans that by the grace of God were clear. And within a couple hours we were free to go home.

This was what my face/eyes looked like a few days after the accident~

My Face 11-5-10

Being Ever So Grateful that the heaviest impact was on my side of the vehicle. I would be beside myself if my daughter had been injured more severely. All I cared about that day was her, how she was doing physically and mentally and keeping her calm was my only goal. We had angels with us, We were told that we were lucky to have been in a Suburban instead of a car and we were SO very lucky that the Durango missed my drivers side door. A matter of seconds could have made a major difference.

For those of you who knew about the accident, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your sweet messages of prayer, care and concern. They mean the world to me and to Emily. Slowly but surely we are both getting better and better everyday. The bumps and bruises will heal with time.

On to the next portion of my post. What truly matters? For those of you that have sent me emails asking about my All Roads Lead Home Facebook page being gone. I hope I can answer your questions.

Yes, I have closed my All Roads Lead Home Facebook page. The car accident has caused me to do a lot of thinking. Since then, I have been trying to put life into perspective, what really matters to me and what and more importantly WHO is closest to my heart. The time that I spend on the computer is time away from my children and my husband.

This also takes time away from our home, which includes time for and actually enjoying decorating our home. And more time for the not so fun chores like cleaning, laundry etc. My house suffers some days because of the time that I spend on my laptop. Instead of reading about everyone else’s home improvement projects, cleaning and organizing ideas. It is time for me to do some of these things in our own home. We have things that NEED to be done to our home and we have just not made the time to do them. Or I have not put them at the top of our “to do” list.

The other thing that I have not made time for lately is my Yoga and my workouts. These are also two things that are VERY important to me. Obviously right now while I am healing I will not be able to jump right back into it, but when my body says I am ready I will be dedicating myself to my health and well being. It needs to be a priority.

I have been thinking of this for a long time, even before the accident. Some of my close prim friends know that the past several months have not been easy for me. I also see this as a way to break away and move on. It really is the best decision for me.

On a side note, I won’t be selling my bowl fillers for the holidays. Time has gotten away from me, and I am not physically able to get them rolled, baked, painted, sanded, stained, dipped etc. before Christmas. And trying to get them done would only add to the usual hustle, bustle and stress of the holidays. And I just don’t want to do that to myself or my family.

Thank you to everyone that ordered my Fall and Halloween bowl fillers. You were all so sweet to place orders and so sweet to let me know that they arrived and some of you even sent me photos of them in your homes. That brings joy to my heart!

For now, I will continue with my blog, and post when I am able. I do enjoy it so much and it is something that I can do at my leisure when I have something to share.

It is unfortunate that it has come to this; there are other reasons that have caused me to make the decision to close my ARLH Facebook page. Those reasons I will keep to myself, because I am and always will remain professional about these matters.

To my closest prim friends, I hope we can remain in touch via email and through my blog. Know that I appreciate and hold your friendships very close to my heart. My hope is that you can all understand my reasons for doing what I am doing. I must follow my heart and stay true to what I believe in. And I truly believe this is the right thing.

The third part of my post Making Changes.

I know that recent events  in my life have caused me to make changes and set priorities. I think it is important that we don’t wait until something happens that could change you and your families lives in an instant to make these changes.

I don’t feel that I am negative person, I like to think that I am usually pretty positive. As with my blog, I tried to make my ARLH Facebook page a place of "sunshine", inspiring quotes, pleasant photos etc. As I would read through some other people's Facebook status's they would state how they "hate the world" or "they hate their job or maybe they dislike their mother-in-law" or that they woke up with their "third headache of the week". I began to think, is this really what I want to read daily and how I want to spend my time? I just hope that I can begin to use the extra time I will gain for a more productive and positive purpose.

I know that everyone’s situations are different, I am not here to judge. But please try to find the good in your day. Please try to be kinder and think before you speak or type. You get what you give and why not give away good and get good back! :)  Everybody has down days, but there are people out there that are suffering far more than we are. The troops that are protecting our freedom don’t have  the “luxury” to update their Facebook status and tell  “Monday to go away and come back another day”. Are Mondays really all that bad?

Post a positive quote or statement on your Facebook and watch the responses and the “likes”. It feels good to spread good! :)

I hope you have all stuck with me through this long, wordy post. I usually like to keep my posts simple, lighthearted and pleasant. I like my blog to be a happy place to visit. But sometimes you just have to take care of business. Next time I will post about something FUN I promise!

“Be glad of life because it gives you the chance to love and to work and to play and to look up at the stars.”  ~Henry Van Dyke

Take time to salute our Veterans today and the brave sacrifices they made for all of us.

Until next time, take care and be blessed.

~Sarah~

 

47 comments:

  1. Sarah, I am very glad to know that you and your family are alright! I am new to blogging, but have followed yours, and am also on APP(anniegirl).
    I can understand where you are coming from. You have to make choices that are good for you and your family! I am sure that the people who really know you, will understand this.
    I will continue to visit your blog, I hope that you all have a quick recovery, and yes, God sent angels to protect you both that day! Sending you a hug! I will now become a follower!
    God bless!
    Renee

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  2. Sarah,
    I am just SO thankful you and your daughter are doing so well, and yes, I do believe you had angels watching over you that day. Thank GOD!
    I can totally relate to what you are saying, and understand completely.I have been having a lot of those same thoughts. Who wants to get on there and read negative comments day in and day out. I have been staying away from the computer and didnt even realize you had closed down your facebook until I read this post.
    I do hope I can keep up with you through emails and your blog because you know I would be missing me some Sarah inspiration~
    I think the world of you even though we have never met, I really hope to someday,sounds like a great plan you have.
    with love and hugs,your friend, Darla

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  3. Wonderful words of wisdom Sarah - I'm so sorry about the accident, but am thankful you and your daughter are doing well. God sometimes puts events in our life to make us stop and think...and that is always a good thing. Many blessings be to you and your family, today and always.

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  4. Good post today - and great thoughts for those who spend a lot of time on their computers. I've had to cut back because of a new part time job, but blogging can be good therapy too, when there's time to spare. Happy healing, and hope things go well for you and your family. Congrats on your decision to slow down and enjoy life!

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  5. Sarah,
    I'm glad to know that you and Emily are doing better and I support your decision to do what is right for you. Only you can be the judge of that. I have always admired your positive attitude. You inspire all of us and will continue to do so through your blog. I will look forward to reading your posts when you take the time to make them. Take care of yourself and your family and enjoy your time with them.
    In friendship,
    Carla

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  6. Dear Sarah,

    I'm so glad you and your daughter are ok. You definitely had an angel riding with you. I as well took a break from FB and Blogging. It is fun but time consuming and I needed to concentrate on me and my children. I recently went back to FB and did my first blog post yesterday. I really think we take a lot for granted and don't realize it until it's gone. I am trying to simplify my life and focus on one day at a time. Please stay in touch and let us know how you and your daughters recovery are coming along.

    Donna

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  7. Sarah...I am so very sorry about the accident you and your daughter were in...from the sounds of it and the look of your bruised face, yes I'd say the both of you were very lucky indeed...what a horrendous thing to endure...and I'm sure you are doing the right thing in separating yourself from those who are negative, life is difficult enough sometimes without having to deal with outside negativity...it's toxic!...I hope that you continue to heal and feel better.

    Janet

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  8. Sarah, I'm so glad you and Emily will be OK. Car accidents are so awful, it feels like you've been run over by a train.
    I know exactly what you mean about FB ~ so many negative comments, I don't go there often, I just don't have time and I've even thought of closing my page. Lately I do try to limit my computer time, it does take us away from family and our "need to do" list. We have to all set priorities for ourselves and my family comes first. Take good care, my friend.
    big hugs to you and Emily ~
    pam

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  9. Sarah, I am so sorry to hear about your accident and praise God that you and Emily were not more seriously injured - I am praying for your continued recovery. This is a great post, full of timely wisdom. I admire you for making the decision to do what is best for you and your family. And look forward to your future blog posts, when time allows.
    Blessings,
    Sue

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  10. Sarah~
    I want you to know that I am so glad to read that you and your daughter are healing and staying strong. I am totally in agreement with you on how statuses can get out of control. I too like to put positive quotes or just kind words for my friends and family to take with them for their day. I respect your feelings and be proud of who you are and that you put your family there first!
    Take care
    Blessings~
    Leslie

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  11. HUGs to you Sarah, take care of yourself and your family and continue to stay positive!!

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  12. I completely understand your post here. I didn't realize you quit ARLH facebook, just thought you were taking a break. Only you know what is important for you, your family and friends. I'm glad that you and Emily are doing well. Keep well. I still hope we can keep contact through email as you are a special friend to me. And I'll be looking forward to your blog post. I, including many others, enjoy your talent and fun posts! Have a beautiful day!

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  13. Sarah - I am so glad you are doing better! I am also very thankful your daughter was not hurt! I think your decisions are wonderful & I agree with you 100%! My best friend lost her mother this year & I have lost SO many close family members...what you say is tru...time with family is improtant! Especially this time of year! :) I am not sure if you will still be on the forum but I will definetly keep up with you on here & through email! I think you are SO sweet! Good Luck, Sarah!

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  14. Sarah,
    I love this post. It speaks from the heart. I'm so glad to read that you and your daughter are okay. Life has a way of making us realize the importance of our families and our well beings. You are truly correct in saying positivity begets positive things.

    Prim Blessings,
    Jean

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  15. Dear Sarah,
    Again I am so glad that neither you or your daughter were seriously injured - there is a God above that's for sure.
    Glad your husband is healing well too.
    I have to agree with you on all your statements.
    If all of us could live by what you wrote what a wonderful society we would have.

    God Bless you Sarah...you are a lesson for all of us to live by.

    Hugs, Karen

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  16. SWEET ONE WHAT CAN I SAY BY THE BLESSING OF GOD YOU AND YOUR DAUTHER ARE HEALING AND I HAD TO CRY WHEN I SAW YOUR DARLING FACE.
    I CAN RELATE TO PAIN AND DISAPOINTMENT IN LIFE BUT WHEN I SEE YOUR SMILE I FORGET EVERYTHING THAT IS BAD, I THIS WORLD.
    I AGREE ABOUT FACE BOOK , I USE IT VERY RARELY ONLY WHEN I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY OR I AM TRYING TO INLIST GREAT PRIM GIRLS FOR MY FORUM.
    LIFE IS WAY TO SHORT AND AS YOU KNOW WE ARE ALL THERE FOR YOU ,
    BLESS YOU SARAH I WISH I HAD YOUR STRENTH !! WISDOM AND OUT LOOK ON LIFE
    YOU HAVE MELTED MY HEART TODAY AND MADE ME A BETTER PERSON , JUST BY READING YOUR WORDS
    YOU MY DEAR IN MY BOOK ARE THE PERFECT LADY

    WITH LOVE TO YOU ALWAYS
    MOTHERBEE, KATHY

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  17. Oh, Sarah, I had no idea your accident was was so severe. You have made some very positive changes for you and your family and I know it is what is best for you.....follow your heart!
    May God bless you and your entire family.
    Looking forward to more of your great posts and photos.
    Linda

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  18. Dear Sarah~
    I wish you and your family well. You've been in my thoughts and prayers since getting your email. I will treasure my order from you and hope that someday down the road you will be able to get back to doing what you enjoyed. I pray you will continue to heal, staying positive and focusing on your blessings is so important. I agree with what you said about finding the good in everyday-as each day given is a day we will never get back.
    God Bless you and your family!
    ~Sheila

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  19. I wholeheartedly agree. Set priorities and follow your heart, instead of following negative blog or Facebook postings that aren't productive to anyone. What's great is we all have the freedom of choice as to what we expose ourselves to and can choose who we want to read and where we want to go. Moderation is key to blogging. It should be an enjoyable and enlightening experience, not something that takes time away from what's really important and causes stress or negativity.

    I'm very proud of my baby sister today and her well-written post. Sarah, you're very special to me and always will be. We are so blessed and thankful that you and Emily are all right, and I am surely blessed to have you in my life. Here for you always. - B

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  20. Sweet Sarah, how devastating for you and Emily but how enlightful as well. Glad you see the good in all of this and are choosing to do the best for all of you. What a wake up call for all of us. May we all find what is truly important in life and hold on to it with both hands. I am so supportive of you and your decision. I will miss your posts but know that you have done what is best for your situation. We are the glue that holds are families together so we cannot weaken or it will certainly fall apart. Blessings to you for your choice. Kathy C

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  21. Wow, Sarah. I had no idea about the accident. I am so sorry to hear about it. But I do know that when things like that happen, God is sending a wake up call. I think exactly what you are talking about here is very true. I know I sometimes do the same with the computer taking up so much time. I have always kept my facebook page private, and only for my family to see. I don't like to read about everything everyone else hates too!

    I think what you are doing, and speaking publicly about it is admirable. Kudos to you! I know I have been more involved with my family and my work lately too, and only checking in from time to time. Good for you! I think God has spoken to you...and most of the time we don't listen to him, but I think you have and he will bless you for it. I miss you on the forums, but do enjoy your blog when I get a chance. Be sure to post pics of your Christmas decor. I love your home! Hope you have a speedy recovery!

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  22. Dear Sarah, I'm so glad you and your daughter are fine. WE have angels around us everyday, Thanks GOD that day your angels worked so hard to protect you and your DD. Hope you have a quickly recovery.

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  23. Sarah,
    I am so happy to see that you and your daughter are fine. I hope that you will heal quickly! I am glad you are not giving up your blog...yours is one of my favorites! :-) I do understand about FB...I always try to be as positive as I can on there, but not everyone is. I thank you too, for your kind words about our veterans...that is near and dear to my heart, as I am married to an active duty soldier. I will continue to pray for you and your family and for quick healing. Warmly, Rachel

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  24. HUGS to you and Emily Sarah, I am happy to hear you're both on the mend. I posted you a pm on the forum asking how you were, but no need to answer as i'm here now updating.
    You are a very positive person and reading this post should make us all think..yes, we all have bad days, but we don't have to let the world know..i thank you for you friendship & look forward to sharing more with you..
    Much love, Annie..xxxx

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  25. So glad you and your daughter are doing ok. Your message was very inspiring and heartfelt. Glad you are continuing with your blog as I do enjoy reading it. Blessings to you and your family!

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  26. Sarah,
    So glad to read that both you and your daughter are healing and so relieved you weren't more seriously injured.
    I understand completely behind your reasoning and know that putting your family (and yourself) should be a top priority.
    I look forward to reading more postings on your blog.
    Happy Holidays to you and your family.

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  27. Sarah~
    Wishing you and your daughter a quick recovery. I admire you for taking the steps to reprioritize your life. That is very difficult sometimes. I refuse to go on facebook because I know it can take up so much time. I'm sure the bowl fillers could do the same at times. I am backing off the computer, too. I need to get back to the gym and the computer takes up AT LEAST that much time. Our fire was our wake up call. I believe everything happens for a reason. Even though we do not always know the why, it gives us an opportunity to rethink things and become better people. Not that we were not good people before but there's always room for improvement. Please take care of yourself and family. I will miss you. You have always been so kind to me. Please post Christmas pics here on your blog. Your home is just gorgeous!

    Take care!

    Judy

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  28. Sarah, I am so sorry to hear of the accident with you and your daughter Emily...So glad to hear that you are both well..I loved your post and could not agree with you more..My prayers are with you both for a speedy recovery..God Bless..

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  29. I am so glad you and your daughter are ok and that the accident was not worse then it was, I am praying that you and your Emily recover quickly...I am with you about spending more time with your Family and your home, I am hardly on the computer much anymore, I have given up all forums which was the best decision for me and it has paid off tremendously with my happiness, more time for me and my family. Those are very important priorities in life that WE SHOULD All CONSIDER. Making memories with your Family is what counts. I am very sorry dear that you have been going through some struggles but just know you have so many praying for you...Hugs Constance (warmprimheart)

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  30. I am so thankful that you and your daughter are alright and improving with each day!!! I know God was with you.
    I admire you for wanting to spend more time with your family and less time on FB. I really need ot follow in your footsteps. I spend way tooo much time on the computer, when I should be reading my Bible or doing something constructive.
    I think I am going to be on the couputer a few min. and the next thing I know it ia an hour.
    Thank you for your words of encouragement.
    Praying for you and your daughters full recovery.
    Hugs,
    Lecia

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  31. Prayers are being lifted up for Emily & you.
    Blessings to you & your family!

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  32. I completely understand your reasons for shutting down your FB page and I commend you. I witnessed a terrible car accident a few months ago and it caused me to change something very important in my life. It's wonderful that you are taking this situation and making the best of it. I will miss you on the VC page but look forward to your beautiful and inspiring blog posts. God Bless you and your family Sarah.

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  33. Hi Sara,

    I so enjoy coming to your blog. Glad to hear that you and Emily are doing well and the accident wasn't anymore serious then it was. Keep posting like you have been. I so love the pics of your family and home. Patty's has not been the same for Sharon and myself. Miss you there. Take care and have wonderful holidays.

    Mary Judd

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  34. Sarah,
    So happy you and Emily are mending!
    You have written a beautiful post!!! I agree with you in everything you've said!!!
    Thank you for being you and your encouraging words.
    Take care my friend!
    Tons of Hugs,
    Wanda ♥

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  35. Sarah,
    I'm so thankful that you and Emily are recovering so well and you are starting to feel like yourself again. This was a wonderful post and as you see a lot of people support you in your decision to spend less time on the computer and more time with family. Over the past year we have become so close and I cherish our friendship so much and I know we will be friends for life!! :) Take care...we'll talk soon. Have a great weekend.

    Hugs,
    Dana

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  36. Hi Sarah!

    So glad to hear that you and Emily are mending--altho I'm sure it's slow going.

    I will miss your quotes and comments on FB...I always looked for your posts and inspiring quotes! Thank you for taking the time to share those "words of wisdom" with us...as well as your fun makeovers, photos and stories!

    Take care of you, Sarah, and your cute little family! I'm a follower here, so will pop in to "see" you every now and then!!

    Brenda

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  37. Wow Sarah! There is nothing left for me to say. Its all been said. My words echo MotherBees, you are an exceptional young woman with her priorities in order. God bless you Sarah, and I am looking forward to more post. My bowl fillers just became priceless to me. You my dear are breath of sunshine.
    betty

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  38. Sarah,

    Oh thank God you and your daughter are ok. I can totally relate to what you said about your priorities. I began working part time and I feel like I can't attend to facebook and blogging. It does take too much time away from other more important things. I am only posting about once a week and I am trying to keep my posts positive and not having friends that do the same. I wish you well on your recovery.

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  39. Oh Sarah...I was just checkin in on you (on FB) and couldn't find ya...so I came here!
    I'm glad you and Emily are doin better.
    I'm so glad you are doin what makes YOU HAPPY-YOUR FAMILY!!! Family does matter most! I go in phases, sometimes I get on FB...other days I don't. I skim over the negative and look for the only postive! Just like in my everyday REAL life!
    as for my blog...I think I am down to posting on that about once a month! In fact-I miss ALL OF October. My family means the world to me and they come first! ALWAYS! My "blog friends" matter to me too...but just because I can't be on here posting/commenting doesn't mean I don't care or think of them!
    WE ALL understand what you're saying and where you're coming from on this.
    Take good care, my friend--♥--BIG HUGS!!
    I'll be back [here] to see whatcha been up to ;)

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  40. Sarah!

    So happy to hear that you and your daughter Emily are on the mend. You definitely know what your priorities are and you are going for it....who could ever find fault in that?? That is only something to be commended for.....I too only get on FB sparsely and only take from it what I want....leave the rest behind. That's all we can do really....a saying I love and think pertains here....

    PEOPLE WHO MIND......DON'T MATTER
    PEOPLE WHO MATTER....DON'T MIND.

    Simple and so true...but sometimes hard to live by.

    I am so glad that you will be keeping your blog, as you have so much to offer and I love looking at your pictures. Take care of yourself and your family and this will all still be here when you have time!

    Hugs to you!!!
    Lori

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  41. Hi Sarah,
    An angel was with you because you are an angel! Hope you and Emily have a speedy recovery. As I said before, I will miss all of your great ARLH FB posts, but understand completely. Glad you are keeping your blog open. We all enjoy it so much. I would love to keep in touch - hope you will friend me on your FB page. You are so inspiring and such a gem!
    Take care, Terri

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  42. I'm just now reading and finding out about your accident Sarah!!! So glad to hear both are doing well and on the road to recovery!

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  43. Oh my goodness girl! So glad that you are okay! I know people who have lost their lives for someone running a red light and it's not sensible at all! I don't understand why one just can't wait a few more minutes. So glad that God was watching over you and Emily.

    I totally understand where you are coming from about all the negativity on facebook. I used to sit and read people's comments and think "Why can't you just be happy with life and feel blessed with what you do have?'. I no longer waste my time with that junk. I do have two blogs and two facebook accounts. One for my personal life, friends and family. The other one is for prims. But I'm not on them very often, only to skim and post a couple of times. My turning point came mid year when all three of my children made comments about me spending so much time on the computer. When your 5 yr. old says something about you being on the computer all the time then you know it's time for a change!! I too have come to realize that family and relationships are much more important.

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  44. Hi Sarah, We were not Facebook friends, but I read and adore your blog. I am so sorry to hear this has happened to you. Glad that you and your daughter are fine, minus the bumps and bruises. I was in an accident the first day I drove my very first car. It was not my fault and I was lucky that I only had a mild contusion. Unless you have been through one it is hard to understand. So I totally get your deciding to scale back and spend time doing what matters. Blessings to you and your family. Jill

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  45. God bless you Sarah, so glad you are okay..sometimes decisions are difficult, but you were not alone, remember we are guided and led to the places we find ourselves, God brings us to them, and then he will see us through them.~

    Blessings,
    ~Ronda

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  46. Sarah...I'm sorry you've closed down your FB page..I always enjoyed your posts and your positive attitude. I'll miss you but I do understand and I wish you the very best.
    Hugs,
    Karen

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  47. I am so glad you guys are ok. I really agree with you, we do need to see the positive side of things and not focus on the negative. Hope you and your family have a Blessed Thanksgiving. I hope you dont stop blogging :))
    Blessings,
    Lisa

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Thank you so much for visiting & for taking the time to leave a comment. I appreciate and enjoy each & every one! ~Sarah~