It's December Already?

"Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything.

Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done."

Philippians 4:6 (NLT)
Dear Lord, I'm turning over all my fears and problems to You to handle today. I can't fix a single thing by worrying about it - but You can fix anything because nothing is impossible for You! Thanks for being in charge of my day. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Hello everyone!

We hope this finds you well and blessed! It's been awhile since our last post and since that time, we are just trying to get adjusted to schedules and routines. Following this post, you will see some pictures of what different activities have taken place for Ashley and our family in the past couple of months.

Ashley continues to progress and surprise us everyday either through her speech, long and short term memory and continuous hugs and kisses. Our family continues to move forward with the many Blessings the Lord gives us everyday. We Love how our Family and friends continue to show us love and support with their phone calls, visits, and prayers. You, our family and friends, through your gracious continuous prayers and presence make us stronger to go forward another day. We continue doing the best we can everyday for our family!

Ashley continues to stay healthy and strong. Her latest CT Scan showed very good results. The doctor noticed a great improvement from the last visit and said she looked very good and very strong as well. The therapists continue to work hard with Ashley in helping her with her safe swallowing of liquids and solids, as we work right along side of them as well. We have noticed a slight increase of the use of her speech! We have also started taking her out a little more as her strength allows.

We ask that you all would continue to intercede and pray for our Ashley's full recovery. We have great faith that the Lord will heal her in his special way and on his time. He has her here for a reason and she is a Miracle of the Lord! We will see his great beauty after all this pain. We tell you, her faithful followers, the Lord loves you very much and never feel that you are alone because he is there right by your side protecting his faithful people. Be sure to go through and look at her pictures!

Thank you so much,

Love the Olivarez Family
God Bless and Have
a Great Day!

COME SEE WHAT WE HAVE BEEN DOING!

Alyssa enjoying the pond 10-17-2010

Alyssa & Mom at Alyssa's first showing in Mercedes 10-16-2010

Alyssa & Billy Ray 10-13-2010

Ashley & Alyssa at ENHS Track Field. Ashley saw a few of her school friends

on this day. 10-31-2010

Alyssa working with her goat Billy Ray 10-13-2010

Alyssa with her Uncle Wally clipping Billy Ray Getting him ready for show 10-13-2010

Alyssa with Billy Ray at Edinburg Ag Farm. Second showing. 11-20-2010

Alyssa showing Billy Ray. Great Job! 11-20-2010

Ashley & Mom at home after Sunday Mass. 10-10-2010

Ashley & Dad following mom & Alyssa while Trick or Treating. 10-31-2010

Ashley & Cousin Stephanie. 11-07-2010

Ashley & Alyssa Mata's Halloween Party 10-30-2010

Halloween Party at the Mata's 10-30-2010

David, Ashley, Mom, Alyssa & Adrian at Wally & Sandra's house
Halloween Party 10-30-2010

Ashley with uncle Wally before the Cowboy Game 10-17-2010

Ashley gets a hair cut by her Nina Diana Mata 10-20-2010

Ashley at ENHS. We walked her around & told her
several stories about her school days. 10-31-2010

Us with the James and Jan Keller and John Keller (The Tall One)

Amanda and Ashley

Alyssa gving Ashley a kiss! It can't get much better than that!

Friday, October 15, 2010

"...the prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective."

James 5:16b (NIV)

Dear Lord, I believe that You are the giver of life and Lord over all things. Thank You for providing me with exactly what I need, even though it isn't always what I may want. I trust that You have my best interest in mind today. I desire to have an authentic connection with You right now. I need You Lord. Show me the way. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Hello Everyone,

Ashley continues to progress through the Lord’s hands. Even though we may not see it on a day to day basis, a lot of people are amazed with her fast progress. We thank you so much for your continued prayers. One thing we have been able to do is return to mass at Sacred Heart. Ashley always walks in with a smile. She makes the effort to stand aside with us then sits to rests her legs. I ask her to point to where Jesus is and she points up to the sky. I show her that is he looking at her with a big smile from above the Alter. Sometimes she will rest her head on her dad’s shoulders and loves to be hugged by him. I sometimes want to stand in front of everyone and tell and show them the beautiful miracle the Lord has done. He gave my daughter a second life. She is re-born and free of sin. She gave a big smile when her friend Louie Vega approached her at church. She pointed at him and shook his hand. Louie responded with a big warm hug and kiss. Thank you Louie for coming over to spend time with Ashley.
Since it was Columbus Day on Monday and I was off from work, I was fortunate to accompany David and Ashley to her therapy session at Milestones. We met with one of the Speech Therapist that will be working with Ashley. They will be starting a session of Intense Therapy for the next three to four weeks. We set goals and look forward to see her progress at the end of these coming weeks. At home while getting Ashley ready for her bath, I stood her in front of the mirror and asked her what is your last name and she answered "Olivarez". I then told her repeat after me. I said: "My name is Ashley" and she slowly repeated! I said "I am beautiful!" and she repeated slowly. Then I said "Jesus loves ME!" and she repeated as well, all the while looking at herself in the mirror with a big smile. Then I tried several other questions and words for her to repeat and she gave me a tired look so I then had to stop and proceed with her bath. This was very exciting for me because we are working on her speech motor skills. When I returned from my outpatient surgery last week, I sat to rest on the sofa next to her and David had told her that I was not feeling well and she reached out to hold my hand.
I am still praying that more of Ashley’s friends or anyone with information will step up and call the School PD with any information. You all have a lot of information but may find it easier just to say “I don’t want to get involved or I don’t have time”. We will continue praying for the Lord to bless you with courage, wisdom and strength to fear no evil.
Please continue to pray for Ashley’s progress and for her therapists and doctors. David hopes to someday return to work. He worries a lot about our financial situation. I worry a lot about his health. Without him I have no one else to care for Ashley. Little by little our lives are becoming a little easier. I know someday she will recover 100 % because our Lord is so amazing and He loves us so much. I know someday our home will be filled with Ashley’s loud funny laugh, her and her sister rolling around tickling each other in my bed, her funny drama stories, her yelling out "mom" every five minutes! Her saying to me "Mom lets go to the MALL" numerous times throughout the week, and most of all her BEAUTY, LOVE and COMPANIONSHIP! She went everywhere with me. So now I find myself crying everywhere I go because she cannot go with me yet but she will very soon!
Alyssa is now keeping busy with new things in her life which are volleyball and 4-H with her goat “Billy Ray”. She loves playing volleyball and is getting really good at it. Plus she got all A’s and Perfect Attendance for the first six weeks of school! I never thought any of my kids had a thing for farm animals but Alyssa shows a lot of interest. Though she tells me she wants to be just like her sister, in a lot of sports and a Cheerleader! I know Ashley would be right there by her side helping her with volleyball and maybe with the goat?
We love you all and May God Bless and Protect each one of you!

Lourdes Olivarez and family

FAITH, HOPE & LOVE

Sunday, September 26, 2010

The Lord is my light and my salvation;
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life;
of whom shall I be afraid?
—Psalm 27:1

Hello friends, parents, family & loves ones for Ashley,

After much prayer and thought we have decided to seek your help in assisting the open investigation on Ashley's accident. As you all may already know or have heard, Ashley did not act on her own when she had her accident. We have learned through blood work that she had an illegal substance in her system causing her to go into a state of mind to harm herself. We have been informed as to when, where, and who gave this illegal substance to her. The Edinburg School District Police Department with the help of the Edinburg City Police Department have opened up and active investigation and is working with us in bringing forward this person or persons so we may file criminal charges. At this time we are asking for your help with any information in regards to this investigation or any illegal activity going on in our schools. All your personal information will be highly confidential.

You need to be Ashley's voice and speak out for her now that she can not speak for herself yet! By you staying quiet, it will only be a matter time before this happens again to someone very close to you. Look around you, who will be next? We need to work together to get reed of this trash in our schools. Enough is Enough about everybody knows and everybody is doing it!! The ECISD is a DRUG FREE school zone with ZERO TOLERANCE and we must keep it that way! We are very blessed to have our Ashley here with us today. Unfortunately it is not the same for other families who have experienced the loss of their loved one in the same situation. What family is next? Parents please encourage and support your student in calling in with any information helping with this investigation. Please understand that we were once parents that thought that our kids were untouchable with these illegal substances in schools. Please we need your help. WE PRAY THAT YOU MAY NEVER EXPERIENCE ANYTHING LIKE THIS.

Please call Investigator Johnny Rodriguez at the ECISD Police Department at 380-8930 or 289-2572. You can also call crime stoppers. If your information leads to any arrest, you will be given a monetary award through crimes stoppers. For more information on crime stoppers please call the ECISD Police Department. Last but not least, to the person or persons who gave Ashley this illegal substance the day of May 19th at school, Ashley turned to you when she needed a friend with words of encouragement and support but you were no friend all you did was give her poison. I don't know how you could ever be a friend to anyone. You have no heart, no faith, and for sure no love for yourself or anyone else. Understand that even if you move from school to school, town to town, state to state. You may even change your hair color, change your name to avoid the people that are already looking at you and know what you are and what you have done. Even if justice is not served to the extreme that we want for you to serve here on earth, your day of justice will come when you face our Lord. You cannot hide from him no matter where you go or who you know. Your only salvation of mercy is come forward and ask for forgiveness until then this will haunt you for the rest of your life. MAY GOD HAVE MERCY ON YOUR SOUL.

The Olivarez Family

PRAYER TO ST. JUDE FOR THE SICK

St. Jude, you who are faithful, humble, and meek, bless all those afflicted with sickness.  Heal our bodies, and give us the strength Jesus had as He carried the cross.  Soothe our minds, and bring knowledge of the truth, that God's immeasurable love for us never ends.  Touch our souls with your peace.  St. Jude, I long for healing.  You witnessed Jesus lay His hands on many who were sick.  Bring to Him my prayer, that He may give me health, so that I may love and serve Him ever faithfully.

AMEN.

Sunday, September 26, 2010

Hello everyone,
We have received more blessings during the past several weeks! We had asked for prayers for Ashley to be approved for a home provider and I had mentioned how I wished she could be going all week to therapy, rather than just three days out of the week. Well, you all prayed for our Ashley and our prayers have been answered! On Wednesday the 15th a case worker came to our house to meet Ashley and take an evaluation. By Friday, she called us to tell us that Ashley had been approved for a home provider. Everything fell into place! Then on Monday the 20th, Ashley started going all week long to therapy for the next three weeks. GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME! ALL THE TIME GOD IS GOOD!
I am excited to see her continued progress as she will have intense therapy all week. Ashley also had an eye doctor's appt. on Thursday and it's unexplainable but after several exams and procedures, David was told that she did not need to wear her eyeglasses. Her vision was fine!! She was only prescribed eye drops for the dryness that she is experiencing. DO NOT WORRY ABOUT ANYTHING, BUT IN EVERYTHING BY PRAYER AND SUPPLICATION WITH THANKSGIVING LET YOUR REQUESTS BE MADE KNOWN TO GOD. AND THE PEACE OF GOD, WHICH SURPASSES ALL UNDERSTANDING, WILL GUARD YOUR HEARTS AND YOUR MINDS IN CHRIST. PHILIPPIANS 4:6-7.

We all continue to work with her at home to assist in her talking and eating. Sometimes she will say words and when you ask her to repeat them she won't. It's as if she is giving you one chance to hear her and that's it! I know a lot has to do with motor planning and re-thinking what and how to do things. Throughout the day and night, her schedule requires someone to assist her in everything. She needs guidance, repeated commands and lots of rest, with everything she is needing to do. After work, we spend time together walking inside and outside of the house assisting her with every turn and step she takes. We had her try out her new three wheel bike outside. The first time was kinda rough but then we tried it again. We had to slow her down because she almost had us running along the side with her. David had to modify the bike so she would be more comfortable. When the neighbors waved and praised her she picks up her hand and waves and smiles. We are still working her on swallowing. We have tried feeding her her favorite foods and she chews very well but then stops and holds it.

She is in Gods hands and on his time and he knows how he needs to heal her. Thank you to Father Richard who has been visiting Ashley throughout her progress. Your special words to Ashley were very comforting to us. Thank you to all the good friends we have seen through out our return. Thank you for your patience and giving us time to adjust at home. Your prayers and kind words are very encouraging to us. It is wonderful to know that Ashley is not forgotten and continues to be loved and prayed upon by so many. When her friends text her a message on her phone I read it out to her and text them back. Thank you all for keeping Ashley in your hearts and prayers. I am happy to hear how Ashley has motivated and changed the way of thinking for so many of our young loved ones. Already she is making a change and she has not even gotten started! The Lord has a plan for her. Please share her story and blog page with others.

We were excited to receive a phone video from John Keller and he also came to visit Ashley again this past Friday. He was very excited to see her new progress from the last time he saw her which was back in June. John's first words when I re-introduced Ashley to John were, "Is that Ashley, Is that Her? She looks so Good!" and with very confident and motivating words John also said, "Oh don't worry, Ashley is going to be just fine! The Lord is taking care of me and He is doing the same for Ashley!". Please read his book about his great Miracle: John Keller - A Miracle- On the Road to Recovery A True Story or visit his blog page as well: http://www.johnkellersmiracle.com/.

You must visit his blog page and read all the prayers for different people in very difficult situations but yet have strong faith. Ashley's story is in there as well so her prayers have spread throughout. The past is slowly fading away and our hearts are not feeling so much pain. We look forward to the future because the Lord is healing our Ashley and he has blessed us so much.

To all her dear friends; take care of yourself and your loved ones. Do not stay quiet always protect yourself and your friends. Stay close to your parents and focused in School and follow the Lord for he will bring you many blessings. Praise Him and ask Him everyday to protect you. Always help someone and give to the needy. There is so many good things for you in this world and the Lord is always there next to you. All you need is FAITH.
Thank you,
Lourdes Olivarez,
God Bless and Have a Great Day!

Meet some of the fabulous people that worked with Ashley in San Antonio!

We love you guys and miss you!

Ashley's Verse of the Week

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."
Joshua 1:9 (NIV)
Dear Lord, enable us this day to throw off self-doubts and fear so that we may obey You, serve You and live out our purpose for You. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit and empower us to do all that You have called and equipped us to do. Forgive us for being content with sitting in the waiting room when You've called us to come out. Ignite in us a passion to live our faith loudly. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Hello everyone,

Sorry I had not updated Ashley's blog page. I had been feeling a mixture of feelings and emotionally tired. It seems with each day that goes by things for us at home seem to be settling in little by little. Trying to get into somewhat of a routine for all of us has been challenging.

Ashley has been doing very well health wise. Praise the Lord! No medical concerns! No word yet on the home provider. We are now waiting for a case representative to come do a home visit and meet Ashley to determine the amount of hours she will need a home provider. We pray to hear from them soon.

Well, David was able to fix everything around the house that needed fixing. He is such a great handy man. Has always been good with his hands and is determined to fix anything around the house. The front door got painted and it looks beautiful. David and Adrian did an Awesome job! Anyone need their doors painted? Ashley gave them a thumbs up! He also got the treadmill fixed and ready for Ashley's indoor walking. The yard has not been treated yet but possibly soon.

We were able to get Ashley an exercising bike for half the price and we got her an in door basketball hoop set, floor exercising mat, exercising ball, soccer ball, ankle and wrist weights and an outside three wheel Swchin bike. These are all items that she was using in San Antonio. Even though she uses or will be using all these items at Milestones, David wanted to continue the workouts at home. We now need to get her educational flash cards, basic memory games and hand exercising objects. Ashley loves hugs and kisses and is very ticklish. I like to tickle her because I can really get her to laugh. David says she has been doing very well at Milestones and that everyone is very nice, helpful and show a lot of care and motivation towards Ashley. There is NO reason why Ashley shouldn't make a full recovery. She has what the "enemy doesn't have". She is young, beautiful, strong, loved by many faithful family members, loved by many friends, loved by many many wonderful people in Edinburg, the Valley, San Antonio, Mexico etc..

As a cheerleader she cheered on her team and entertained large groups of fans and now you the fans cheer her on with your prayers. She worked hard to win in competitions and helped her team succeed whether it was in Pony softball, band, cross country, basketball, tennis, cheer leading or track and she gave it her all and left it on the field!! She will recover 110% and will be an instrument of God. Her beautiful road to a miraculous recovery is all on the Lord's time. We all have to stand strong in our faith. We may not understand why things happen to "good people" but remember with "God in our hearts" nothing is impossible. Bad spirits may be around us but "they are nothing" when they come upon God's people. We are always loved and protected by our King.

Ashley has enjoyed visits on different days from her good friends and family members. Thank you all for the gifts, calling first and being patient to visit and keeping Ashley company. As Ashley is progressing she will appreciate your kind words, jokes and just showing your love and support during her time of healing. On Sundays we have been going to mass at the San Juan Shrine. She enjoys sitting between me and David as she listens to the readings and beautiful music. After going up to receive communion we sit and bow our heads and pray and give thanks to our Lord for all the many blessings we have everyday. This past Sunday after mass we got home and everyone changed into their Dallas Cowboys jerseys even Ashley! We all enjoyed watching the game with Ashley's Godparent's and Godsister Israel, Diana and Kasie Mata. As Ashley sat relaxed up against Kasie, Diana started a game of "simon says" and Ashley was able to follow the commands. We had fun and laughed a lot even though the Cowboys didn't win! Well maybe next game.

On Monday night I was reunited with a warm welcome by my Sisters in Christ at our Monday night Faith Sharing Meeting. It felt very good to see you all again. Thank you for your strong prayers and faith. You all encourage me to keep moving forward so I decided to do this update.

Thank you all for your continued prayers May God Bless each one of you. Do good by your neighbor and receive many blessings.


Lourdes Olivarez,
God Bless and Have
a Great Day!

Sunday, September 5, 2010

Ashley's Verse of the Week
"Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life."

Proverbs 13:12 (NIV)
Dear Lord, I know You created me to shine for You. I know that You gave me unique talents and abilities, with dreams to match. Help me to remember my dreams and to trust You to fulfill them in Your timing. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Sunday, September 5, 2010

Hello everyone!

Thank you for your continued prayers. Ashley started her therapy sessions on Tuesday (8-24-10) of this week and I started work on Monday (08-23-10). Being at home has been a big adjustment for all of us. We are still trying to settle in and now with me away from the house all day, David and Adrian are caring for Ashley.

Adrian will soon need to start looking for work to help us financially (Please Pray). David is doing all the care for Ashley and Adrian helps him as well and keeps up with the house as much as he can. She has no home nurse since she no longer has the trache (thank you God) and we learned how to give her medications and feedings so we were told she may not qualify for a home nurse to care for her. We are in the process of applying for a home provider so please pray that she gets approved.

Returning to work has been a roller coaster of emotional feelings for me. It is very hard to kiss Ashley every morning then leave the house then get to work and put it all behind me so that I can function at work. It has been good seeing everyone and I appreciate the hugs and words of encouragement but sometimes I feel I need to be at home with Ashley. She is like having a new baby again.

You want to be there for all the first time moments. At the beginning we waited for her to open her big beautiful brown eyes (Thank you God!). Then we loved it when she started moving her legs and arms. Then it was beautiful to see her yawn so gracefully. Then she started turning her head and following us. Then she started following commands by taking deep breaths for the nurse and putting her lips together to give kisses. Then she started smiling and making noises with her voice. Then we heard her laugh this was awesome! Then she started saying yes, no, mom, dad very clearly. Taking her first steps and walking. I rush home during lunch to see her, eat then tell her I have to leave again and that I will see her after work. She looks at me and nods her head okay.

It has been hard for David to get Ashley up and ready for therapy every morning without me. We did everything together in San Antonio and helped each other so we could get her dressed and us dressed as well. David said she did well at her therapy sessions. It will take time for Ashley and the Therapist to get acquainted and move forward with her progress. I wish she could be going all week long like in San Antonio rather than three days out of the week. We trust in the Lord and his plan. Ashley sleeps very well at night. We are still working on getting her to swallow and talk more. Its seems that since she found out we were coming back home she started talking less and swallowing less also.

Some late afternoons we take her outside to walk in the driveway. I have her walk fast to get her legs moving as they were doing in San Antonio. I am showing her how to bounce the basketball outside and she tries to follow it with her hands to keep it bouncing while she bends her knees as well. She holds the basketball with both her hands and gives it a light release throw to her sister. We had her kicking the ball also. She enjoys watching her favorite movies because we can hear her laugh out loud. Alyssa gets her up to start dancing. She moves her feet side to side and her shoulders up and down.

Unfortunately David has had to work on several things around the house as well. Two of the toilets were leaking, and the treadmill that he was going to have Ashley use for walking broke down. We were looking into getting her an exercising bike for in doors but the one that was on clearance was out of stock. Plus he and Adrian are trying to paint the front door because it really needed painting. The white had turned to black and was peeling off. Plus he wants to see how he can treat our yard because it is full of stickers. I had taken Ashley to walk on the grass to get her legs to adjust and balance on uneven ground but the stickers were getting on her shoes and socks so we had to go back to the drive way.

While I'm in the kitchen and she sits in the living room, I call out to Ashley to raise her hands so I can see her. Even though I can see her from the kitchen, I do this to get her to exercise her arms on her own and she raises them up high. I miss my Ashley so much but I know that the Lord is re-creating her to where he needs her to be.

When God takes something from your grasp, He is not punishing you, but merely opening your hands to received something better.

Ashley is a child of God. He gave her breathe not just once but twice. As a human being and as her mother I hurt and cry everyday for my Ashley. I know that it wasn't her calling yet and the Lord has big plans for her. We will not let any "bad spirits" come between our family. The Lord is watching over all of us and everything we do in our life time on earth. We will all have to answer to him someday. So be good to one another, protect your families, pray and live the LORD'S way everyday and praise HIM for everything that you have because HE has blessed us.

Thank you love you all,

Lourdes Olivarez,

God Bless and Have a Great Day!

Sunday, August 29, 2010

ASHLEY'S VERSE OF THE DAY!
"Instead of the thornbush will grow the pine tree, and instead of briers the myrtle will grow. This will be for the Lord's renown for an everlasting sign, which will not be destroyed."

Isaiah 55:13 (NIV)


Powerful Jesus, that is what I need You to be today. Powerful Jesus. I see the shadow on my life and often I fear that it will overtake me. You have promised that in You, with You, all things are possible. Show me where to move today Jesus, so that I position myself in Your Sonlight. Give me the discipline to study Your words so that my life will be for Your renown and an everlasting sign to others of life in You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Sunday, August 29, 2010

Hi Everyone!

Prayers are needed for Ashley to be approved to start her therapy sessions this coming week so that she will continue her walk with the Lord in getting stronger and stronger everyday and proclaim victory!! Also please pray that she continues to work hard to regain all her motor planning, stay strong so we can someday hear her laugh and talk out loud, walk with a strong balance, eat pizza, W hataburgers and her favorite wing stop!

I would also request prayers for me as I will be returning to my work on Monday. May the Lord give me strength, knowledge, courage and memory so that I can get up to date with my department one day at a time. Thank you to all the staff at ECISD for your cooperation and support for my family during this change in our lives. Pray for David and Adrian to continue to be strong in caring for Ashley at home as we are still adjusting and for Alyssa, who has probably been the strongest one in our family. Stay focused in school, set your goals and reach them!

Also as all the students have returned to school, we wish all the students, staff and parents a blessed and successful school year. May the Lord protect each one of you and keep all bad spirits away, and for families to pray together everyday for our children to be protected and be aware of their surroundings. Stand strong in your faith! God is Good All the Time!! Trust in Him!!!

As the John Keller family proclaimed during his victorious recovery: PUSH! Pray Until Something Happens!


Thank you love you all,

The Olivarez Family

Ashley's Verse of the Day

"The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him." Exodus 15:2 (NIV)Dear Lord, thank You for being all we need and so much more! Grow my vision of You Lord to see past my limited knowledge. Open my mind to see beyond my reality. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Hello Everyone!

Friday Morning (8/20/10)came around and we were all packed and just cleaning and gathering the last items together. Dr. Currie came in early in the morning with his White tail deer tie to remind Ashley of the deer we have in South Texas. If I didn't mentioned it before Dr. Currie has a big collection of ties and wears a different one everyday to interact with his patients. He wished us the very best and wished many blessings for Ashley. We got the last discharge paperwork from our nurse and we then we off to Ashley's going home party with another chocolate cake and more gifts. There was mixed emotions for all of us. We took pictures and gave hugs and said our goodbyes. We told them we will be back in November for Ashley's follow up appointment.

After leaving the hospital the first place we took Ashley was the San Fernando Cathedral Church downtown. She looked around and immediately her eyes were drawn to Jesus on the cross at a distance. We took her around the cathedral and prayed and gave lots of thanks. We then went to the River Center Mall because she had nodded yes when previously asked if she wanted to go there. She did very well in her wheelchair and with the people. On Saturday we went to Morgan's Wonderland outside of San Antonio. One of Ashley's therapist had informed me about this new amusement park that was specially for families with special needs loved ones. This park just opened this past April and it is beautiful. I highly recommend it to families everywhere! Everything families need to enjoy a special day with their loved ones is here and very accessible.

We first went to the Fishing Wharf where Adrian and Alyssa had a lot of fun. Adrian even got a big cat fish. We took Ashley on the train ride that takes you around the whole park. Then we went inside the gym where there was a group playing drums with other families. We participated and Ashley enjoyed the music and hitting the drum and making noise with the hand instruments. We then ate and then took Ashley to the water area. There she was able to feel different pressures of water go through her fingers and move objects in the water activities. This was very good stimulation for her. We then sat at a theater where we enjoyed the talent of many young boys and girls singing and dancing for the visitors. The park was closing at 8p.m. but we left at 3p.m. because we didn't want to travel late with Ashley. She did very well on the road.

Driving up into Edinburg was exciting for me. The first thing I noticed when turning right on Monte Cristo from 281 was the new Fine Arts Auditorium at Edinburg North High School. I said WOW it looks great, the students are going to enjoy it!! Driving up to my house was exciting as well. Our fence was decorated with colored ribbons and balloons and there were welcome back Ashley signs that were made by Ashley's friend Samantha Cantu. Thank you!!

We saw my mom at the drive way and my sister came out excited and emotional to see Ashley back home. They had prepared dinner for us and rearranged Ashley's room after painting it. Thank you My Lord for bringing us all together back home safely.

On Sunday we went to mass at the San Juan Shrine. After the mass we walked the stations of the cross and had Ashley walk a little as well. David and Ashley sat down to rest and talk to a man who told David his story of how the Lord saved him from getting killed. I noticed another man had driven up in his truck and walked to our area and said, "Good afternoon" in Spanish and walked up to Ashley and place his right hand on her head and started praying over her and then walked away into the Shrine. I asked David did he know who that man was and he said NO! I said well that was odd!! As I was done praying at the station, I noticed him coming out of the Shrine and I told David should I go ask who he is or does he know us or why he did that? David said no just let it be, the Lord is here with us. I stayed dazed as to what drew him to my Ashley when Alyssa was the one sitting on the wheelchair. Maybe he was one of Our Lord's Angles? Well if your reading this, Thank you for your prayer on Sunday for Ashley and please continue to pray over her. May the Lord Bless You!

On Monday and David left with Ashley to Milestones and I left to take Alyssa to her first day of school. I then met up with them at Milestones. Ashley was already in an observation with one of the therapists. We were given a tour of the facility and met the therapists. They are so excited and eager to get started with Ashley. We took our time explaining and asking and answering questions just so that they could get to know Ashley. We then left to the parking lot and unfortunately David's truck did not want to start up. God only knows why he sent us in two vehicles. So we left his truck their and took Ashley home to rest and eat.

Later David and Adrian went to fix and bring back the truck. I went to get our wheelchair access parking tags at the County. The clerk who attended us was very nice and understanding that Ashley was not there to sign. I noticed the tags were good for four years and I told the clerk, God willing my daughter will not need these tags that long and she said, "Amen" I hope daughter gets better."

On Tuesday we started working on unpacking and washing and settled in around the house. David came across a box of all our home videos and started showing them to Ashley to see what reaction or response this would bring. Well let me tell you hearing her laugh was awesome! You all need to take the time and watch your home family videos and see your blessings through out the years! We laughed a lot. We found some really cute moments when the kids were small. Wow, how the years go by!
We had a very good evening at home.

On Wednesday we took her to her follow up appointment with Dr. Palacios. As we got out of the car at her clinic, I held Ashley's hand and said "Ready? Let's go!" She then walked in front of me and lead the way. This was different because we usually walk along her side or towards the front guiding her. Well I figured I would see where she would take me. Well she walked straight up to the entrance door and I asked Ashley are you sure this is the right door and she looked at the names on the door and nodded yes! Thank You Lord Jesus Christ. We Trust in You!

After signing her in, we turned to take a seat and I was wondering if we would run into someone we know. Well sure enough the Lord brought me to see my sister in Christ, Sylvia Requenez (who stayed with Ashley at home while we were at the benefit bar-b-q). She was so happy and we hugged so tight and she hugged Ashley and loudly praised the Lord for his beautiful work on Ashley. Ashley became emotional and happy as well. After Ashley's vitals were taken and the nurse escorted us to a room. We were greeted by Dr. Palacios and her staff with big smiles at the nurses station. Dr. Palacios told Ashley with a big surprised smile "Look at you- your walking!" The last time Ashley was in Dr. Palacios office was back in June before we left to San Antonio and Ashley was brought in through the back entrance on an ambulance bed with several machines. She is in your hands my Lord, Do your will with her!

Her progress is visible everyday. Later Wednesday evening at home she had a big smile when she saw herself in the mirror wearing her black seniors 2010 t-shirt from ENHS. We turn on the music and she moves her head with the beat and enjoys dancing with mom and dad. She sits very comfortable in the leaving room rocking chair with one leg bent up and rocking back and fourth looking at her brother and sister play a game on t.v. Her speech and swallowing of foods is still very minimal but i know she will be talking and eating all kinds of foods really soon. I told her earlier today "Ashley, you need to go to school." She looked at me and then i said "oh yea, you graduated! Your done with high school!" and she smiled. Then I said "but you still need college! Do you want to go to college?" She nodded yes! Then I asked her "Where? STC... UTPA... or UTSA?" She nodded yes to UTPA! So Everyone these are our prayers. For Ashley to recover 110%, as the Lord needs her to be so she can independently speak her testimony and help others through his grace who have lost their faith and need to be found.

Thank you to all the staff at Christus Santa Rosa Children's Rehab. We miss you so much and love you all dearly. You all are a very big part in our lives and our prayers are with you and the love you give everyday through our Lord. I truly believe there are angels by your side everyday!

Thank you all for all your continued prayers. Please continue to Praise our Lord! Amen!

Lourdes Olivarez,
God Bless and Have
a Great Day!

Friday, August 20, 2010

No doubt by now, everyone has heard that Ashley is coming home! All of you have been so generous and compassionate during the last few months and without your love and prayers, we would not have made it through this.

Once we get back to the Valley, we ask that you give Ashley a little time to adjust to her new routines and schedules before coming to see her at home. We will continue to update through the blog and let you know when she is settled in and ready for visitors. Her new routines will include coming and going to rehab and doctors visits and may take a little extra energy to accomplish these new tasks and we don't want to overwhelm her. In the meantime, please continue to leave Ashley encouraging words in the comment section of the Blog. Ashley loves to hear from you!

We know she will be so excited to see everyone once again!

Thank you for your understanding.

Thursday, August 19, 2010 - UPDATE

YOUR PRAYERS HAVE BEEN ANSWERED!

THIS WILL KNOCK YOUR SOCKS OFF!

And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus"
Philippians 4:19 (KJV)

Dear Lord, When hard times come, I will not be afraid. I trust in

Your loving care to provide for my family and me. Take my

burden, Lord, and replace my worry with peace.

In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Thank you all so much for your URGENT PRAYERS for Ashley while having the MRI today. We left the hospital around 12:45p.m. and returned about 4:30p.m. The whole procedure took about two hours and was done to examine three areas. The first was the upper spine area for the initial liquid found in her spine. The second was for the neck area that initially showed tightness and the third was the brain area for the cyst that was of major concern. She did very well lying very still throughout all two first runs but on the third one for the head, she started moving, possibly from wanting to reposition herself, so the technician had to stop the test and check on her because she was shaking her legs.

I was standing in the room with her praying the rosary and approached her and talked to her to calm her down. I told Ashley this was the last of the tests and to try not to move and we would be done really fast. I asked her to smile if she understood and if she was okay to continue and she looked up at me and smiled. The technician proceeded to start again.

I am very proud of Ashley because she did not have to be sedated and was strong throughout the long and very very loud exam!! Even the driver of the ambulance said that it took very long and that she did very well. When I came out of the room and met up with David, Adrian and Alyssa who were also praying the rosary in the waiting area, I hugged David and told him she did very well, was very strong and that I knew that the Lord was taking care of her and that she was going to be okay. I said, I know the Lord will be sending us home. By the time we got back to her room Santa Rosa Hospital, we had missed the initial scheduled time for her going home party.

Everything and everyone was at a stand still not knowing whether we were leaving or not. We waited in the room and about 6:30p.m. Dr. Currie came in to give us the results. He walked in and said, "okay let me turn off your t.v.", and pulled up a chair and sat down and I said, "do we need to step outside to talk" and he said, "Oh NO I've got great NEWS pull up a chair and I want Ashley to hear this too!!"

He explained the results of each area. He said between him and the doctor who reads the exams, it could not be explained or determined why or how the liquid in the spine had been decreased from the Edinburg CT Scan and the San Antonio CT scan to almost nothing. This was not an area of concern anymore!

The tightness in the neck area came back showing as normal. No more tightness was there which may have been initial swelling.

And the cyst was nothing of a concern. It was mis-interpreted for a cyst and was not a cyst. We were good to go home!

I told him I had sent out an urgent prayer request with all our family and friends before the exam that we had been praying the rosary during the exam and he said "Well your prayers are the answer to these great results that were medically unexplainable." He further told us that Ashley's medical condition will improve in time with lots of work, love and care. Dr. Currie is a man of strong faith, knowledge, dedication and compassion for his patients. He told us to continue doing what we were all doing for Ashley through our faith. After hearing this great news, I raised my arms up high and with a high voice said, "Thank you Lord Jesus Christ for answering our prayers!" We were so excited that we continued packing, cleaning and Ashley's medical schedule. The staff started coming in to find out the news and how they could help and what did we need. They kept telling Ashley she will be greatly missed and how proud they are and to keep up the good work!! Also her going home party was rescheduled for Friday Morning.

On another note: Wow! What great news Ashley's blog has gone international! People are praying for her all over the United States and now in other countries as well. Thank you LORD!!

Thanks for all your hard work and love for Ashley.

The girls had a GREAT Birthday on Monday the 16th. They had a party with cake and gifts. Ashley's door was decorated and it was wonderful to see Ashley sing along the birthday song. Thank you to all the family and friends that called, texted and commented on the blog page to wish them a happy birthday. Special thanks to Ashley's friends that texted her at exactly 12:00am on the 16th. Yes 12:00am! She was excited we couldn't get her to go to sleep. Attached are some birthday pictures.

Please continue specifically praying for:
1. For her cough to clear up.
2. For her to be able to swallow her food more continuously so that her G-Tube can be removed.
3. For her to be able to eat more food without getting nauseated.
4. For her speech for communication be stronger, louder and clearer.
5. For her walking to be more independent and safe
6. For her body tremors to decrease and clear up
7. For her to someday soon be able to tell her powerful testimony and help others.
8. Live an independent, confident life praising the Lord!
9. Feel comfortable at home because when asked if she wanted to go home, she would answer No!
10. For all the ill children here at the hospital, who give me strength just with their smile as I see them down the hall way in their wheel chairs or other equipment.

STOP!! Look around you!! We are so blessed!! Love and give to a needing hand!!

We will keep you updated as we get Ashley home and help her feel comfortable, safe and very much needed rest at home, take her to church, to her new outpatient therapist at Milestones and doctors appointments next week. Thank you for your continued prayers. We pray for you all as well everyday!

Lourdes Olivarez
God Bless and Have
a Great Day!
FAITH, HOPE & LOVE

Thursday, August 19, 2010

URGENT PRAYER NEEDED

A CT Scan this morning showed something that is causing concern with the Doctors and Ashley is being transported to have an MRI done this afternoon. Please begin to pray specifically for wisdom and discernment for the medical teams and perfect working order of the equipment and machinery.

Thank you God that you have exposed this possible threat to Ashley's well-being so that it may be dealt with and taken care of immediately. We ask you Father, that you would go before the medical team and make known to them what needs to be done. We thank you that Ashley is the apple of your eye and that you have her in your hands. Please send Angels to comfort the family during this anxious time. We pray peace over the entire situation. Amen.

We will post updates as we get them.

Friday, August 13, 2010

Ashley’s Verse of the Day

"I can do everything through him who gives me strength."

Philippians 4:13 (NIV)

Dear Lord, please hold me up today. Give me strength. Help me to lean on You. I am tired and weak and need Your strength today to face these hard situations and the pain in my heart. Draw me closer to You in the midst of this. In Jesus' Name, Amen!

Friday, August 13, 2010

 

Hello Everyone!

Just to update you on the Lord's continued work of blessings for Ashley. Ashley had a very good weekend!

She was visited on Friday by her Science TAKS tutor Mrs. Cindy Torres along with her husband and son Mark. During the weekend she was visited again by her Aunt, Uncle & cousins ( the Chavez Family) & her Godparents Israel & Diana & Kasie Mata and The Huerta Family as well. She had a surprise visit by her track partner, Jenyse Vasquez and mom, Mari.

Jenyse ran with Ashley in track this past season and they were both team mates in the 4x4 relay team which qualified for Regionals this past May. Good Luck to Jenyse Vasquez and all the girls and boys in their upcoming season in Cross Country and Track. Remember you never know when Ashley is going to be watching you all from the stands!

In the pictures you also see Ashley with her Occupational Therapist - James Moody. What can we say Awesome! Awesome! Awesome! As you can see by the friendly smile and warm hug Ashley is very loved and cared for by all the therapist here!!! Ashley continues to meet weekly goals with the therapist in all areas. During Wednesday's conference meeting we discussed the continued strong cough Ashley has been experiencing on and off. The ttudy exam of reflex in stomach came back 95% normal thank you Lord! The blinking of eyes and the possibility of double vision has cleared up. Her voice is heard a little louder at times when selecting drinks, foods, etc. During her own selected leg stretching she counted up to ten then started counting backwards to one. I heard her do some singing over the weekend and remembers her phone number to her cell phone in English and Spanish! They have started to bring her a lunch tray so she can start eating soft foods. She clapped along as we sang Happy Birthday to another patient celebrating her birthday.

Talking about birthdays, Send in your BIRTHDAY WISHES TO ASHLEY & HER SISTER ALYSSA as they both celebrate their Blessed Birthdays on Monday August 16th. Ashley will be turning 18 and Alyssa 11. Thank you Lord above for the wonderful blessings you give us everyday and especially to be celebrating our daughters birthdays together again. Also Lord thank you for Blessing me and David with 25 years of marriage at the end of this past July. Even though David and I kind of forgot or put it off, we thank you for your strength and blessing in keeping our family together through all the good and tough times. You have always been there! Thank you our LORD thank you!

We are praying to be home soon! Please keep praying for our Ashley's strong recovery and healing so that she may someday be able to share her testimony with so many that need to hear her!! Love one another, forgive and forget, help your neighbor, give to the needy, praise the LORD our KING!!!

Thank you all!

Love,
Lourdes Olivarez

Friday, August 6, 2010

Ashley's Verse of the Day!

"But forget all that - it is nothing compared to what I am going to do. For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers for them in the desert!" Isaiah 43: 18-19 (NLT)

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for making life beautiful and creative. Thank You for placing a bit of Your creativity in me so that I can enjoy You more. Help me to shake off the negative thoughts about my own lack and be open to whatever new thing You long to do in me and through me. In Jesus' Name, Amen!

Friday, August 6, 2010

Hello everyone,

Thank you all who submitted pictures for Ashley's prayer blanket! I hear it was a great response! I can't wait for Ashley to see it. Thank you to Robert & Diana Olivarez and Deidra, Brittany and Joana Casas who visited Ashley on Monday. She enjoyed your visit and laughs.

During Wednesday's Conference meeting a lot was discussed and reviewed. It was decided to start Ashley on a medication to help her be more attentive and so she is not so distracted with everything around her. In ST- she worked on naming family and friends in pictures and did very well. Her swallowing is improving little by little. She is able to sing and recite the alphabet and count numbers. She has been a little more verbal with us. In OT, Ashley continues to work on upper strengthing and extension of the arms and shoulders and her release of objects with fingers has improved. In PT, she continues to do well in climbing additional stairs and is working on strengthing trunk by crawling on all fours and sitting on a large bouncy ball. Looks like a lot of fun because she started bouncing on it. Walking continues to strenghten, while held only by the back of her gate belt. Dr. Currie has not decided a discharge date as of yet. Possibly another two weeks because plans are in progress for outpatient therapy at Milestones in McAllen. We have heard a lot of good things about Milestones and look forward to meeting and working with them.

The Lord has a plan for Ashley and he is opening doors for her because of all your prayers, love and support that you give unconditionally. Today Thursday we had another blessed day. Ashley continued to do well and work hard in all her sessions. We were blessed by a great friendly visit from Heidi and her mom Sharon and brother Chris from Uvalde. Heidi is Ashley's friend who was also receiving rehab here with Ashley. Wow she looks Awesome!! She is walking and talking and eating all on her own. Thank you Lord for your continued love and beautiful work on our girls. You bless us everyday with every hug and kiss we share with our loved ones. Please continue your prayers and praying the rosary for our Ashley. We will be home soon!

We have met another mom and with daughter from Brownsville and another mom with daughter from Mission. We ask for your prayers for them as well.

Thank you and we love you all very much!

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

REMINDER

Today is the last day to turn in your pictures for Ashley's prayer blanket with Juvi Juarez. Also, today is the prayer meeting at the skate park on Jackson & Sprague @ 6:30pm (Edinburg). Don't forget to bring OFF for mosquitoes.

For more information, you can call Juvi Juarez @Mobile:9563305199 or email jjbjj5@yahoo.com

Lets surprise Ashley by the time she goes home with the blanket! She will love to see you on it!

Monday, August 2, 2010 Photos

Ashley's Verse of the Day!

"But as for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today." Genesis 50:20 (ESV)
Dear Lord, Your promises are a gift to me. You've given them to sustain me, to provide hope and peace while I'm in a pit. Help me to trust in all Your promises until You bring me out. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Monday, August 2, 2010 VIdeo

Monday, August 2, 2010

Ashley had a great weekend that was full of surprise visits! On Saturday her dear friend Christopher Granando from ENHS and his parents surprised her. Christopher is also the friend that made the "promise walk" from the Edinburg Children's Hospital to the San Juan Shrine back in June. On Sunday she had a surprise visit from Mrs. Mimi Romero and daughter Grace. Mrs. Romero works at B.L.Garza Middle School (Ashley's former middle school) and Grace attends Norma Linda Trevino Elementary. Ashley later took pictures with her brother Adrian, Dad & Mom. Later that afternoon she was visited by her dear friend Aj Huerta from EHS and his family, Adolfo, Mryna & Ty. That evening she was visited by her Olivarez Grandparents David & Elva & uncle Davis & cousins Davis Jr. & Juliet & friend. Ashley was very excited and happy to see everyone. Also thank you to the Donato Salinas Jr. family and her Uncle Andy & Aunt Roni & family for visiting during the week.

Ashley shows stronger legs when walking as you can see on the separate post of video from Thursday. She was walking "SiSi" a Shih Tzu therapy dog. In the back you can see Ashley's doctors, Dr. Currie on left and on right Dr. Colbert. Her speech is still quiet. On Saturday Dr. Moe came to examine her vocal cords with a scope cam and said everything looked good. No signs of paralization. It may just take time for her to work her vocal cords and strengthen them again and for her strong cough to clear. Her swallow of liquids and small soft food bites continue to improve. During Mass she is very attentive to the Priest and the persons doing the readings. She also joins in to hold hands during the Lord's Prayer and takes communion very well. We have started talking to her about going home and she told us "I want to Go Home".

Ashley's vail bed was removed a week ago and has been sleeping very well at night. She is also using her head to answer "yes" and "no." She follows commands very well when asked to close her and/or squeeze our hand. She can also hold an object in her hands for a long time and she is able to put on her shoes during therapy. Last night while watching a movie, I loved to watch and hear her and her dad laugh out loud. Ashley is so AWESOME and she glows everyday and it's because the LORD is there beside her. He shows us that we are going to be just fine. Live in the present not the past or future!

Thank you all for your continued support and prayers. Please do not stop! We ask you to love one another and hug and kiss your children everyday. Put the Lord first in your lives for He is our leader every morning when we open our eyes. Everything we have is because He allows us to have it. Live and learn from us! Be strong and positive in everything you do. Take care of the hungry, poor & the sick for they are the Lord's people. Give without expecting anything in return for you will receive many blessings from our KING!

Love you all very much!

Ashley's Verse of the Day

"We love him, because he first loved us."
1 John 4:19 (KJV)

Dear Lord, You are bigger, more powerful, and more magnificent than I can imagine. I place myself in Your hands today. I will trust You wherever I find myself today, and with whatever comes my way. I love You, and I know that is because You first loved me. Help me show others Your amazing love. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Hi Everyone!

Ashley had a good day yesterday! During the medical team conference meeting yesterday everyone reported her continued progress in each session. Dr. Currie continues to reduce the medications so that when she goes home she may not be on any medications! Based on the therapist's reports Dr. Currie estimates another 2 to 3 weeks of in-patient rehab then she will be going home to continue out patient rehab in the Valley. It is good to hear that we will soon be going home and we pray and ask for your prayers for the Lord to open the doors to the best out patient facility and have the best therapist work with Ashley in the Valley as in San Antonio.

The therapist continue to work on her trunk muscle strength for more standing and walking ability. Ashley is doing well with grasping objects with her hands and fingers. During PT yesterday she also worked on walking in a grapevine motion crossing her feet in front then in the back as she did a open-cross- together side step. She crossed her feet through the back before the therapist got started which amazed the therapist because it is usually harder for a patient to get from crossing in the front then immediately start crossing in the back. Everyone who sees her coming down the aisle stops to look at her and expresses their excitement on how great she looks and good she is doing. I tell them its all the LORD above!

Ashley also continues to swallow very well using a straw or just from a cup. Her chewing of small amounts is tolerated very well also. She continues to be very aware of her surroundings and we love to hear her laugh when me or her dad do or say something funny. By the time we know it she is laughing, us not knowing that she was even paying attention. She is tolerating her eyeglasses a little more and we have seen a decrease in the blinking. Last night as we were watching one of her cheerleading and track home videos, she called out clearly "Mommy" and I hugged her for a long time as we both cried and I told her everything was going be just fine because the Lord above is making her stronger everyday and he is watching and protecting all of us. We are so blessed to be able to hug and kiss our kids everyday. Adrian and Alyssa are doing very well. They assist and help with her care and interact as before. Alyssa loves to push Ashley in the wheel chair and crawl into her bed to snuggle. Thank you all for your continued prayers for our Ashley, our family and all the children that are here with Ashley in the hospital as well. We love you and appreciate all your love and care.

Thank you ACTS brothers & sisters we love you!

May God Bless you all and all the families struggling with the floods in their homes in the Valley and Mexico.

Special thanks to Patti and Josie who started Ashley's blog page back in May and have done an wonderful job keeping everyone informed. Also special thanks to Jan Keller & her son John Keller and their family for their love and prayers for Ashley as they visited her in the hospital and at home. If you are in need of a miracle, or know of someone who needs encouragement, please read John's story and see the amazing work of our Lord at johnkellerupdate.blogspot.com. You can also view John's story on youtube.com under "John Keller Miracle in Progress".

God Bless and Have a Great Day!
Lourdes

*Note from Patti: It's amazing to see that Ashley's blog has generated over 5,000 visits in such a short time. The outpouring of love towards this family is phenomenal! I would like to share this one verse from The Message translation: II Corinthians 1, verses 3-4 "All praise to the God and Father of our Master, Jesus the Messiah! Father of all mercy! God of all healing counsel! He comes alongside us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, he brings us alongside someone else who is going through hard times so that we can be there for that person just as God was there for us." We have all gone through rough stuff, but it is the reaching out and making those miracle connections that truly brings the blessings! Ashley's recovery is certainly the hand of the Lord, but it is also the demonstration of the love of Christ that you all have for her and her family, and exhibit towards one another. What an honor and a privilege to be a part of something so special as Ashley's recovery! May God bless you all!

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Ashley's Verse of the Day

Have not I commanded you? Be strong and courageous!

Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your

God is with you wherever you go.

--Joshua 1:9