Monday, December 15, 2008

Psalm 91:11 For he will command his angels concerning you

The above verse is on an angel ornament that my friend Raji sent to Robynn. It hangs on her IV pole keeping constant watch. The words are not written on the angel, just the verse. I am not the bible scholar you might think and I had been meaning to look it up for a couple days and never found the time. As I sat hear watching her sleep, I took it down and decided to "google" the specific verse. As I read the words on BibleGateway.com, I was overwhelmed with emotion. This was the very verse I had chosen to put in Kelly's program's (after I received it from Robynn's Aunt Augie) in an attempt to comfort all who miss her so desperately. What perfect words to keep vigil for Our sweet girl. Sorry, I just had to share, because this is so NOT an accident.
Right now we are waiting on 2 more units of blood. She had an extremely miserable night filled with the nastiest of "yuckies". She seems to have overcome that bout and is finally resting. She is not allowed to eat or drink anything and she is protesting this when she is awake. As soon as she saw me she asked if I would get her a diet vanilla coke and I was thrilled to have her ask for something. I was ready to run as fast as I could to find one(keep in mind, I don't run;) and Brian says she knows she can't have one, but is still trying to pull a fast one...can't blame a girl for tryin!!! It is still unclear what needs to happen before she can go home. Some moments, I'd like to unhook her from everything, throw her over my shoulder and bolt down the hall and drive away with her. Not rational, I know, I'm over it...for now.
Back to some fonder memories. Yesterday Aunt Robynn got a solo performance from Tanner. He has chorus for an elective and they had their fundraiser Saturday night. So, as soon as she was able to see him, he sang the songs from his program to her. No one was allowed in the room, it was a private performance for his Aunt Robynn. What an amazing gift to her and a wonderful memory for Tanner...his Aunt Robynn bursting with joy and pride.
A Life experience, truly at its best!!!

I have more stories but want to get this posted, as I know you are all anxious. Things are very difficult, but I will keep you updated best I can.

Love you all!
Stand Strong!
Pray On!
S

26 comments:

Anonymous said...

Just wanted to keep telling you how much we are praying for you and hoping you will get to go home soon and get that Diet Vanilla Coke! Love you,

Cammie & Jeff

Anonymous said...

Good Morning Sweetie petee. Hope this morn finds you feeling better. Can't wait for you to come home. Miss you terribly. Matthew is sending you love and kisses as am I. We will continue to pray for miracles. Shelley is absolutely right. It is NO accident. He really is looking after you. Love you...Aimee

Anonymous said...

Hi Robynn,
You probably don't remember me, I'm Kate's mom, Kimberly (we met on the OLG 1st grade pumpkin patch fieldtrip). You truly are an inspiration to me and my family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless!

Unknown said...

Hi Robynn and Family -

We don't know each other...my first encounter with Army Goodell was when a friend of a friend of someone else's friend (who knows where it started) forwarded the announcement for your Blood Drive. I read your story (on one of the most amazing websites I've ever seen!)and figured that after several years of not donating blood, your fundraiser was an excellent reason to finally get back to it. I met my friend there and we both sat and waited, and waited, and waited because there were so very many supporters there. It was amazing to be a spectator that night...it was cold, windy, and a great night to be at home, but no one was going home until they did what they came to do. There were people racing each other to fill their bags, sissy men whining about needles (but never once thinking of leaving), a swarm of people selling baked goods, and people who probably never wore brown in their lives, all bustling around in brown to support this lady I'd only just heard of. It had such a sense of community that we knew this 'Robynn' must be pretty special...people don't come together like that for just anyone. So, I've made checking your site a regular thing...check my e-mail, read the news, check out Robynn's site, pay some bills, goof around at work, check Robynn's site for updates... Aside from keeping up with your highs, and lows, and highs again (because nothing has kept you down for long), I've learned how to live my own life a little better. I have three young children and I've made a concerted effort to enjoy the little things a lot more. With seemingly little spare time around work, traffic, school activities, cooking, cleaning, etc., I used to be worried about getting to my To Do List, and would even get irritated when something took time away from it, like one of my Kids wanting to snuggle up to watch a show or have a story read to them. Then, I'd read how you fought to get out of the hospital so you could see your Kids' baseball games, or get a pedicure with friends, or just sit with family and friends and watch a movie, and thoroughly enjoy it. Talk about seizing every opportunity! You have been and will continue to be an inspiration for how I choose to treat people and spend my time. You have an incredible family and great friends, and it's clear that you have earned them. I have learned a lot from you and your Army and you've had a profound, positive effect on me. I just wanted to THANK YOU and wish you all a very, very Merry Christmas. Stay strong, and know that you and your family and friends have had a miraculous ripple effect, and it continues...

Anonymous said...

Robynn....hi there sweetie! I hope you get some good rest today and hope the day brings you joy. It is funny that Shelley writes about running you out of there and sometimes I think...wow, how can I get Bryce to bring his detective car so we can make a quick run for it as well and hopefully not get stopped. :-)
I want you to be happy most importantly. Every night when Alyssa, Bryce and I pray for you we wish you happiness. Hannah I am sure has her own prayer but she is peaking a different language these days...HA. The first time I met you, it was immediate sunshine! You truly are amazing, you bring such joy to whomever you talk to you to or say hello too. I mean it! I heard so many great things about you and when I finally was able to meet you, I felt special. I still remember that day at the bust stop.
I know I am rambling...but I miss you!!! I know you have great family around you and they love you very much.

The Heinlein Family loves you and is thinking of you all the time.

Love you pretty lady!!!!!

Amber

Anonymous said...

Robynn,
You are a beautiful inspiration to those who know you and those who just admire your strength, character and faith from afar.

Anonymous said...

1 Corinthians 13:4
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.
And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.

Sweet Robynn, you and your family are loved.

Anonymous said...

How lucky you were to get a solo performance from Tanner. I hope the "yuckies" stay away for a long while and God lets you have some peace.
Continued hugs, kisses, and prayers!

Unknown said...

Hey there ~

Whew! What a day, and it’s only 1:45! Work has been sooo busy today. I have been dyin’ to check in to see how you’re doing! I’m sorry that you’re not home free yet, but, I’m lovin’ the fact that you are trying to get Shelley to get you some goodies, (Diet Vanilla Coke, eh? Sounds really good!) Make you a deal, come home today and I’ll leave you a 12 pack on your door! Deal?? =D

Ya know between the words of encouragement, prayers and scriptures, and just plain funny stories, how can you not feel better? I know just reading a few of the comments has totally changed my mood! As I type this I am feeling the stress and tension of the day just fall away. It’s truly awesome! I wish I could hang out for the rest of the day, however, work calls. I told Myron the other day I was too busy to work. He didn’t seem to agree; not sure why? ;) Oh well, I tried. Okay, I’ll check on you in a bit! Love ya! Remember, victory through perseverance.

P.S. Shelley, just have to let you know that I, as I’m sure everyone else was very touched to read about the special scripture. I am also in complete agreement. It was Not an accident! As much as I don’t like to admit it sometimes, everything happens for a reason; never an accident. In 2005 our family lost our niece Dani (short for Danielle) after only being with us five short days. Following her service, life just seemed overwhelming and too painful for words. I remember being outside one day watering a plant we had received in Dani’s honor. I began to cry and just thought about how much I would miss not being able to get to know her. Shortly after that, a humming bird with a bright pink chest flew up to me and Dani’s plant. I felt an immediate sense of peace and knew that she was letting me know she was okay, and she was with me. Now when ever I see humming birds I take a moment to say hello and thank Dani for being my little angel and helper. What’s so interesting is that I see them at the most incredible moments.(but, again, it's no accident.) I didn’t have the pleasure of meeting Kelly, but I believe that she visits with our Lord regularly on your behalf, asking for our miracle sooner than later. Continue to look for her in the everyday things; she’s all around you. =)

Anonymous said...

Hi Shelley:

I am new to the blog. It was just sent to me over the weekend from another great 1st grade mom, Kimberly Speakman.

I have known about Robynnn's WAR for sometime from a mutual friend Stine, and have silently kept her in my prayers.

I had a war of my own just 5 years ago. Different, but the fear is always the same.

From this day forward, please let Robynn know she has new soilder fighting for and with her.

One of the things that got me through each day was an old tale of the man who had a dream on the beach. The Foot prints story. Where a man was told that Jesus would walk with him through his life. When the man had seen two sets of footprints next to his, except during his darkest times... He questions the Lord. The Lord explains " My precious, precious child.... when you see only one set of prints in the sand, it was then that I carried you".

I invision, that this is the time Shelley, that Jesus has Robynn in a very tight grip... and is carrying her to safety.

May God Bless you all during this very special time of the year. The time we celebrate our Dear Savior's Birth.

D'Niece Garcia Hall

Anonymous said...

I think she should have that diet coke... :) but I am feeling naughty :) Oh you guys, I don't exactly know what I am praying for right now....just that God holds us all in his graces. For those who are suffering either emotionally or physically that we can all find our peace through HIM. Robynn, I am sending the biggest, most annoying hugs ever. I just hope you feel our love for you...for your whole family.
xo

Anonymous said...

How nice to have your own personal performance :) Very impressive.

I'm with all of you on the escape thoughts :) Between all of us, we know enough law enforcement "officials" to plan a secret getaway "op", right? :) Let us know if you need us!

All joking aside - Robynn, I hope today is proving to be a better day without those darn yuckies!

OH and friends and family, please be watching the fundraising blog - there's a new fundraiser going AND we still have Robynn's Ribbon Magnets... need a stocking stuffer???

:) Kim

Anonymous said...

Robynn,

So, if it is any consulation, I am eating enough for you and me both!:) Keep your strength up as well as your chin. Diet cokes, cookies and all your favs are soon to come, I just know it. Is this the pregnancy stomach talking or what??:) Again, I pray for your comfort physically as well as emotionally. Remember, you have a great host of angels surrounding and protecting you. I know you will be home soon. Remember, you are a child of the most high God and everything you touch will be prosperus and successful!

Stand Strong girl!

XOXO,
Kellie Stroud :)

Anonymous said...

Diet Vanilla Coke...er..um..uh...since you haven't been able to have goodies in awhile I think when the time comes you should just go for the real thing!

SO,sorry that the yuckies have been wreaking havoc and we are praying that,that gets remedied right away!!!

I'm with you Shelley, I don't see it as pure coincidence that the ornament Raji sent to Robynn had the same verse that brought comfort & peace after Kelly's sudden passing.

That verse is lovely, and I can picture Sweet Robynn having a team of Angel's watching over her and pulling her through these less than easy times.

I am just glad Sweet Robynn is getting some rest and that Tanner could give her a private performance, who doesn't love live music!

Keeping the prayers comin' and sending you all hugs via the Internet...take good care!!!

Jill West

Anonymous said...

There were several rainbows around Bakersfield today and I couldn't help but think they were the hundreds of prayers being lifted by the Army to Our Father for Robynn and her beautiful family. Peace, comfort and healing to them all!

Anonymous said...

Robynn, I hope and pray that you God will bring you peace, comfort, and a healing. I pray that He will continue to sustain you, but will allow you to be comfortable in the process. I know that you are a warrior, and you never question why you. We know that only God knows. I sincerely believe that He has a plan for you, for all of us. It is being fulfilled right before our eyes. As I read the comments of so many, particular those who don't even know you, I can't help but question how could one person be as amazing as you. You are something girl. You really are something. None of us may understand what this is really all about, but God's certainly in it and we don't question Him. Keep your faith because He's all around you. I love you for allowing me to see through you, life as it should be. Praying for better days for you.

Tonya Sandoval said...

Somebody get that girl a dang "diet" vanilla coke already! Sorry Brian! If it is truly bad for her at this time, then I guess I take it back. But, I am feeling for you girl. Sometimes when I am driving home, my car automatically makes a left hand turn into the Country Boy Drive-in on Rosedale Hwy. I share your addiction for caffeine and sugar. Hopefully you will get the doctors approval really soon. Until then, I hope you have some relief from the "yuckies." We love you!
Tonya Sandoval & Family

Papa Kevsan said...

As I sat at my desk finishing off a crazy Monday thinking of all that I need to get done before the boys show up for Christmas I decided to read Robynns blog;as I read notes from complete strangers detaiiling how my niece has inspired them to see life in the moment tears of bittersweet joy run down my cheeks. Robynn you are one special child of The Lord.

Anonymous said...

My Dear Robynn,

I think about you all the time...I am praying and begging God to make those "yuckies" go away and never come back!! Girl you are so strong and amazing..I know I say that every time I write on your blog but it is soooooo true, everyday you amaze me more and more. You are so loved and you have such a wonderful husband (who is a saint)and Shelley (who is a true angel-just like you Robynn) and two beautiful children who are the luckiest kids ever to have the two of you!! I just LOVE the Goodell family.
I found a scripture today. It is from Denteronomy 31:6 After I read it I knew it was meant for me to share this with you.
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the "LORD" your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you".
Stay strong; stand strong
Always praying,
Liz Haskell & family

Anonymous said...

Hello Shelley:) Hello Brian:) Dearest Robynn~
On the way to drop Eden off @ school this morning, we saw the most PERFECT, BEAUTIFUL rainbow! I knew that this was for you:)Just as you are, beautiful & bright!!

Love you~
Tina

Anonymous said...

Hi Robynn,

It has been years since we have seen you, a decade perhaps, but you are not far from our thoughts.
I hope this evening finds you at HOME and free of pain and full of love. We just wanted to take a moment to let you know that you are in our thoughts and are simply magnificent in your fight. Your family is beautiful and I don't know that I have ever seen any one person surrounded by such love and devotion. Brian....I have never had the pleasure but WOW! Nice choice Robynn! Your children are beautiful, and certainly courageous as well (just like their parents). Shawn wanted me to say hello. All our love to you and yours.
Cathy, Shawn and Aiden McBride

Anonymous said...

Dearest Robynn,

I had to tell you about my day today. I was leaving Target with my packages and getting ready to put them in my truck. A complete stranger came up to me and asked me about the Robynn magnet I have proudly displayed on my car. Of course, I had to tell her your story and that you needed extra prayers. She was so moved by it and wanted me to let you know that she will be saying a prayer for you.

I hope the yuckies stay away tonight and that you get some rest and comfort.

Forever in my thoughts.

Anonymous said...

Shelley, I am so in on the get-away team. So when you do unhook her from everythingthrow her over your shoulder, sprint down the halls and jumo on the elevator, I'll be waiting outside in my car, engine running and I will have a 12-pack of diet Vanilla Cokes in the back.Just let me know and I will be there in a heartbeat. Trust me, we'll be leaving skid-marks when we are reving out of there....
And thank you so much for keeping us all so well-informed.'Cause you know we are all sitting by our computers(and for some of us, constantly checking our blackberrys), waiting for news and then hoping that the news you deliver, are good news.
Give our sweet Robynn lots of love from me and my family, and for that matter, her entire "West Sac extended family"...We all miss her so much, just having her local, knowing that she is in her own, comfy chair with Mousse and "Twilight"...
Love, Stina

MandyMarie12 said...

Jennifer, thank you for your post. It is so wonderful to hear how many people Robynn inspires and your story was so touching!

Sabrina, that is always my most favorite story. Thank you for sharing it. Ever since you shared it with me the first time, I think of Dani when I see hummingbirds.

Robynn, if Tanner sings anything like he dances, you are one lucky chick!! ;-)

Just wanted to say hi,

Mandy

jill summers said...

Robynn promise me that when they finally let you have something to eat or drink that you will go for the real vanilla coke and skip the diet part!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jill Summers

christine Booth said...

Good Morning PERFECT, BEAUTIFUL girls. The sun is shinning, so that must mean your up and smiling, pointing fingers and telling Brian and Shelley to get that car started your going home. I hope you got good rest last night and the yukies are still resting. I prayed all night that this morning you would be pain free and rested. so I can't wiat to see the next post. Im not given up on the Diet coke and donuts we are suposed to have and of cousre your singing and dancing on the way.
I love you and can't wait to hear that you are home with your family.
My prayer for you Brian and the family.
love you