Tuesday, August 20, 2013

A little Fall inspiration and a Message

Thought I'd share a few images from my Pinterest Boards with you today. I've been going through my magazines and Pinterest looking for some Fall inspiration. I always get excited when Autumn approaches, it always invigorates me mind and body. Since it's a little early for tons of Pumpkins, I found a few others with some apple inspiration instead. If you'd like to repin any of these please browse through my boards,  Fall Decor and Fall Gardens and Porches,to find them there. (Please scroll down to the end of the post first)

Then I have something to share with you...



































Those of you who have been with me for awhile may know that I have a hereditary heart condition, and that most of the time I don't have many symptoms or problems. I absolutely hate talking about it here on the blog because in my mind it makes me feel like I'm "old and worn out". I'm not a whiner or a complainer so I put it on the back burner and try to forget about it publicly. But I know deep down that it's just something that I have to deal with, and since I try to be real with you all, not talking about it would be insincere.

The truth is that I have had 3 major heart attacks 10 years ago and open heart surgery when I was an energetic, healthy, and vibrant person. I had no symptoms to speak of other that my stress level was a 15 on a scale of 1-10. Since then I've had another stent put in for a blockage and have an ongoing situation called microvascular disease. This is something that's more common in women which causes high levels of angina, (chest pain) that is a result of smaller vessels not getting good blood flow.

So, now to the present. I noticed a few weeks ago the pain level was increasing, but I thought it might just be due to being more active in the summer, swimming and working in the yard. But over these last ten days my medications haven't been working and now I'm at a place where I have to find out what's going on. I have a high pain threshold and I can outlast an attack that normally would send someone to the ER. (not a good idea).

I'm seeing my cardiologist today and I imagine I'll end up in the hospital for tests and another stent. I'm not worried, because I've been through this before, and I know God is taking care of me and that He is totally in charge of all this. I just needed to tell all of you. And being honest, I need to take a few days to rest. I had my posts done up for the rest of the week, but since I'm not going to cover this up, I felt like I should just postpone things a bit. I'll check in with you when I'm back and let you all know what's going on.

I love you guys, you all are some of the sweetest, dearest people in the world. Your friendships are real and treasured. So I'd sure appreciate your prayers today and this week. You'll hear from me soon.

xoxo,

96 comments:

  1. You certainly have my prayers and well wishes.....take a break, girlfriend.....maybe you are trying to do too much. Slow down and rest, your health is the most important thing!! It sounds like you have a high energy level but your body can't keep up...keep us posted, we love you and want you to be well....hugs...cleo

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  2. Debra - Definitely sending prayers and hugs your way. This "old age stuff" certainly isn't for sissies, is it? Take good care of yourself and allow your body to get the rest it needs. We'll all be here when you return!!

    Praying for you, family and doctors.

    Judy

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  3. Debra, I'm so sorry you are having to deal with these health problems. In a way you remind me of my mother in law, she has heart failure as a result of chemotherapy. She has good days and "down" days where she's pooped. She hardly let's it slow her down...which is how I think of you. Keep us posted and get well girl.

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  4. Oh my, Debra.....prayers for you AND the medical team's hands that will work to heal you. XO

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  5. Debra, I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers that today's visit brings relief to your pain and peace of mind going forward. Your friends is real and treasured to me. All the best to you, dear friend. ~ Sarah

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  6. Debra,
    Oh, dear one, my prayers are coming your way at this very moment
    and will continue daily until I hear "It is well with my soul" from you!!!
    You have become a precious blog friend over the past three years,
    I am continually blessed by your friendship!
    I'll be watching for your return and in the meantime, please know
    I will join others in whispering your name in my prayers!!!
    Fondly,
    Pat

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  7. Debra, Your images are beautiful but I am more concerned about you. I worked at a large heart hospital and I know what you will be going through. We will, all of us, pray you through this. I have a high pain threshold, too, and that is NOT a good thing. We bull through where others dare not tread. Take care of yourself and let us know what is happening as soon as you can- xo Diana

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  8. Sending prayers for peace and a fast recovery.

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  9. Wishing you good health, with prayers...

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  10. Dear Debra. I'm so sorry you're going through all of this but you will certainly be in my prayers! Take care of yourself and well be here when you feel like coming back.
    Blessings,
    Shelia ;)

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  11. Debra
    I so enjoy your post, but don't often leave a comment.
    I wanted to today to let you know I will be praying for
    you and that all goes well with your appointment.
    Blessings-Kimberly

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  12. Sweet lady, I hope you got my email back last night... I love you, as we all do, and my prayers are continuing for you and your family, who I know it is very hard on them as well... you are such a strong lady... never ever complaining... always wearing a smile... please do take a break and take care of YOU... you are certainly not old or worn out... you have more energy than ten women combined!... and I know how strong your faith is... and I am a firm believer in the power of prayer... and we are all praying for a speedy recovery this time... wish there was more I could do for you... much love, Julie Marie

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  13. Debra,
    I am also a follower of your wonderful blog...but do not comment often. I send you all my well wishes! And from reading your blog I can tell you are a strong faithful person!
    Good health to you,
    Renee

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  14. Hi Debra, I don't comment often either but when I see someone asking for prayer, I pray. I want you to know that I am a firm believer in the healing power of our Lord and in prayer. I know your strong faith will carry you through and I pray you will take time to rest and get well again. God bless you with His healing and strength and peace.
    Hugs, Pamela

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  15. You are in my thoughts and prayers!

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  16. Debra:

    Good luck with all of this. I will be thinking of you! Hang in there!!
    Roselle

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  17. Sending good thoughts and prayers, Debra! Get some rest and take care...xoxo

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  18. Praying all goes well and you feel much better soon!

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  19. Prayers, positive thoughts, and best wishes to you Debra!

    Becky @ Vintage 541

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  20. Debra, you know you've been in my prayers since you mentioned this to me. I'm so glad you put it out there, so all your prayer warriors can lift you up. Take the time you need to get well. YOU are far more important than a blog post. xoxoRosemary

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  21. Debra, praying all will be well with you. I love all the Fall inspiration you've posted. I'll be thinking of you...

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  22. Debra,
    Thank you for sharing this personal issue with us. My prayers are with you. We will all be here when you return and are feeling up to blogging. Life really happens sometimes and you need to take time for that. Best wishes for whatever the outcome will be and for a good recovery. My prayers are with you my friend.
    Kris

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  23. May you be at peace, knowing so many are lifting you up in prayer. Thank you for the beauty you so generously share with all of us-may an abundance of good health return to you very soon.

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  24. May you be at peace, knowing so many are lifting you up in prayer. Thank you for the beauty you so generously share with all of us-may an abundance of good health return to you very soon.

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  25. You have my prayers and best wishes. I will be thinking of you often this week.

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  26. you are in my prayers....

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  27. Debra, I'm sorry to hear you are going through this again. My prayers and thoughts are with you.

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  28. You will certainly be in my prayers Debra, I've always enjoyed your blog and I'll be waiting to hear from you when you are rested.

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  29. Praying for you and those who will be caring for you. I know God will give you the strength you need at this time and wisdom to those who will be treating you.

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  30. sending prayers, love, light and healing vibes your way, right this very moment, my dearest.
    erin
    xxoo

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  31. Praying for you sweet lady! If possible, keep us updated so we know how to pray specifically and take all the time you need - we'll all be here waiting for you when you are back to full strength and health!

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  32. Debra,
    Keeping you faithfully in my prayers, and hoping that you will be back blogging again soon.
    Pat

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  33. Please put yourself first and come back only when you feel strong and well. We'll all be right here waiting for you.

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  34. Wow, Debra, it is amazing what people plow through the days with. You are so strong- physically, spiritually- I know you will be fine... God is with you.

    I have a heart condition, too...not to the degree of yours, but I have been tachicardic 14 years now and I completely understand your fear b/c I was just in the ER for a night in May this year during the last week of school. It wasn't the first time, either. Mine is brought on by the stress of my teaching profession. When I see people on TV walking in a strike I know they deserve every penny for what crap we have to go through- education is SO political. I doubt every day that I'll last 20 more years in it. I keep praying for guidance.

    I'm so glad that you are recognizing that you need to see a doctor rather than thinking you'll be okay on your own. I think as strong women sometimes we think we can handle it, and it can be very difficult to go get checked out. I will pray for good doctors, a good rest, good news, the support of angels, and our Redeemer's healing hand in this for you my friend. When I am scared the most I think from the Bible- "FEAR NOT! I AM WITH YOU!" I will pray for you every day, Debra. You take as much time as you need! You have been through enough.

    And you are STILL energetic and vibrant! Good health IS on the way.

    Love you and be safe, Andrea

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  35. We will be with you in spirit, and we hold you in our hearts.
    Brenda

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  36. Thank you for the beautiful, inspiring photos, Debra! It really makes me love autumn all the more. :)

    Now....as for you, my sweet friend -- you will be in my prayers and I will be lifting you up every morning! I am so glad that you feel at peace and comfortable with the possible tests you'll be having. God is good! He loves you and will be by your side every single second. Love ya, girlie! ♥

    xoox laurie

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  37. Debra -
    I'm so glad you told us. I'm also glad you've taken action when feeling symptoms. I hope you are back 100% soon. I know after going through my Mom's heart surgery that hearts can be fixed. I'll be glad when your big heart is working properly again. I adore you and your blog and will be praying for you. I'll look forward to an update on your health.

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  38. I'm not sure what made me come here today but like everything in life, I guess it was just meant to be. I'll pray that everything goes smoothly and you get the best news possible. I know God will take care of you so I'm not worried about that. Thank you for sharing this. Looking forward to when you and your big heart are back in shape!

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  39. Dear Debra, Hopefully a new medication will make you feel much better soon. Take good care of yourself and get some rest. You are in my thoughts.
    Hugs,
    Julia

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  40. I'm glad you shared this with us, dear Debra. I've been away for a little while, so I'm glad I saw this tonight! I'm sorry you have to go through this, but I'm happy to know that you are trusting God. I will be praying for you tonight, and in the days ahead. (And thank you for the glorious Fall images!)

    Jeanette

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  41. Hi Debra,

    Doesn't it feel good to get things off your chest? I'm grateful that you could share this with your readers. One would never know, with all your energy and constant activity here on your wonderful blog that it sometimes is just too much. Glad that you are getting the care that you need in understanding what is happening with your heart at this time. Sending prayers and positive thoughts your way, to be with you during this break. Be well!

    xo
    Poppy

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  42. Debra, I am so glad that you shared this with us. I will be praying for you. xo Laura

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  43. hugs and prayers to you, debra. take all the time you need:)

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  44. Sending prayers your way!!! God is great and he will be with you... Take it easy... I'll be thinking of you and I'll keep praying for you...

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  45. Take the time to relax and heal, as this is the most important thing right now. We love visiting your blog to see all of the unique refreshing ideas that you share, however that is not a top priority right now. Thank you for sharing the intimate details, as it gives us an opportunity to lift you and your family up in prayer. Rest and we will hear from you when you are rested and able. May you be enveloped in the peace of God and know that he is in control.

    Sherrie

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  46. Praying for you. Your condition is like my brothers. His started in his early 40's. I must give you credit for marching on!!

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  47. Have loved reading your blog daily for a very long time & will continue to keep your name in my prayers for restored health for you. Sending you gentle hugs.

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  48. Sending prayers and well wishes your way!
    Pam
    scrap-n-sewgranny.blogspot.com

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  49. Debra I wish you nothing but the very best. I so enjoy your inspirational blog - have been reading for a long long time and I love that you share so many wonderful things with us. Praying for your speedy recovery and good health for the future. I too am going in for surgery tomorrow morning for a shoulder replacement so I will be thinking of you also in my prayers. God bless you during this stressful time and always.

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  50. Dear Debra, I am so sorry to hear that you are going through this! You sound s though you have very positive frame of mind and strong faith, which I know will bring you through. I'm glad you shared this with us. I think it helps to get some things out in the open at times so that you know how many people care for you! I'm sending healing thoughts and prayers to you. Please keep us posted! Hugs, Leena

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  51. Bless you for being so brave. Remember that God made our bodies with pain to give us warning signs like the ones you've had. He has also given the knowledge to treat us to a multitude of trained medical staff. I'm thankful you have stopped postponing that treatment. You bless so many people with the beauty you bring to their lives. Just those beautiful pictures you shared with us today bring moments of happiness and sometimes special memories. Now go take care of yourself and remember that a multitude of semi-strangers are praying for your swift recovery. Thank you for telling us. Even though we've never met you are a sister through Jesus and a gift from God.

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  52. I am fairly new to your blog. My heart goes out to you. I will pray for you, expecting the best news. Love these autumn pictures.

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  53. Dear Debra,
    I know of your history and I'm so sorry to hear you are having trouble again. Sending you love, hugs and prayers with the knowledge that you are protected and cared for.

    xo
    Claudia

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  54. Dear Debra,
    I know of your history and I'm so sorry to hear you are having trouble again. Sending you love, hugs and prayers with the knowledge that you are protected and cared for.

    xo
    Claudia

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  55. whoa, you already had 55 comments when I came to post...so you know you have lots of prayers coming your way! I had to chuckle when you said you had a weeks worth of posts ready--that sounds like you, always taking care of business....now go take care of yourself. We will be here cheering you on! (((hugs)))

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  56. Debra, Please know I will join my prayers with all the others for you and to get the help you might need. You are a take charge person, I can tell and sometimes, we (because I am one too) have to lay it down and let someone else do it all. There are always lessons to be learned in surrender, but it is so very hard for people who were born to take care of others to ask for help themselves. Take heart that your best days are ahead and you can rest and let others do for you. Thank you always for your so very encouraging posts....you are gifted, but be a gift to yourself also. Blessings, Linda

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  57. Oh Debra...please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I can't even imagine what you have been though, but I know that our Heavenly Father knows and that He will cover you with His almighty love.

    I LOVE the autumn pictures that you shared. Just beautiful..take it easy and know that we love you!
    Blessings~

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  58. II have always enjoyed your blog but now you need to take of you. I know that God has a plan for each of us but we ,must be willing to listen and then follow. Thank you for doing what you know you must. Don 't worry about your readers we are faithfully praying for you and waiting for your healthy return.

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  59. I'll keep you in my thoughts until I read a new post for you. Sending lots of positive energy from France.

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  60. Debra, even though you don't me, I am a true believer and follower of your lovely blog! I'm so sorry to hear of your situation and will keep you in my prayers! Positive thoughts coming your way! ~~Angela

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  61. Dear Debra
    I know that we worship the same loving Father who will place His hand upon you. My prayers to you my sweet and precious friend. So many of us here in blogland love and truly care about you. Sending you much love and hugs

    Kate
    xoxo

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  62. God bless you, Debra, and keep you in his loving hands until you are healed of these woes. I am sorry you are burdened with this. I pray that you are soon feeling well and renewed and will have to deal with this less and less as time goes by. I enjoy your blog and hope that you are soon up to delivering more new experiences to those of us who love every word and picture you share.

    patty

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  63. Thinking of you and hoping that all is well. Hopefully better than you thought! You are so smart to be aware of your body's signals and taking care of yourself. Hope to see you back blogging very soon!

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  64. You are in my thoughts and prayers this evening and I hope all turns out well and you can get back to your normal life and routines as soon as possible:-)

    Take care, my friend!

    xoxo
    Kathleen

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  65. Debra, my heart is goes out for you. I pray that you will be o.k. and that the pain will reside. I have always loved your blog and will be here waiting when you are able to blog again. Your health is the most important thing! I will have you in my prayers!
    hugs,
    Jann

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  66. Debra, thank you for sharing this private part of your life so we can all send thoughts and prayers your way!
    Blessings,
    Susan

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  67. Beautiful post, and then your message. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

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  68. Debra,
    Please know that I am thinking good thoughts for you and saying a prayer as well. Please take care of yourself! All the best, Melinda

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  69. Hello Debra, Know that we all truly wish the best for you - praying God will heal you and that your rest and the tests will be positive. We are all with you -
    Love in Christ,
    Kathy

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  70. Thoughts and prayers are with you Debra. Take care of yourself!

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  71. My thoughts and prayers are with you Debra! Take very good care of yourself. I am sending you hugs from here!
    Love, Sherrry

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  72. Sherry,
    Prayers being sent your way!! You are very smart to look into this now before things get worse.....

    Let us know how you make out as soon as you can and take it easy after your testing is completed...

    Hugs,
    Debbie

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  73. Debra, Best wishes for a smooth recovery and may God continue to watch over you~ praying for you today.
    hugs,
    moni

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  74. Debra I hope you are feeling better and have this under control very soon. I am so sorry you have to endure this trial. Many prayers and good thoughts sent your way from me. Your blog is always such a beautiful place to rest my eyes and dream up new creative ideas. You will be missed while you are away. Thank you for sharing the gorgeous Fall photos. I really wasn't feeling at all inspired and almost resented seeing anything Fall on the blogosphere, but this post has inspired me! I love the collection you have, and as always, I leave here being inspired and feeling peaceful. Take care and much love. -K

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  75. Debra, I so love your posts and everything you do. I follow right along but don't comment often. Now is the time to put your energy into yourself and to take the time for healing. We will all be praying with you and look forward to hearing that you are feeling well again..Take care, Judy

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  76. Debra, I hope all goes well - you are in God's hands. Take it easy and don't worry about coming back till you feel well again.

    Noreen
    Crafty Journal

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  77. Hi Debra,
    Thank you for being real with us! You are such a dear woman and we all care about you! You will most definitely be in my prayers and I know that God is watching over you closely and giving the doctors wisdom and guidance.
    Love in Christ,
    Amanda

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  78. Debra, you definitely have my prayers of complete healing and restoration! I will miss your pretty posts, but rest assured we will be right here waiting for your return. Continue to saturate yourself with His word as you go throughout your tests. We all love you and look forward to a good report! Your sister in Christ, Kathryn @TheDedicatedHouse

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  79. You have been wrapped in many prayers and warm thoughts. Wishing you strength to take care of yourself.

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  80. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Take good care of yourself and we will all be waiting for your healthy return.
    Simone

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  81. Please know that you are not walking alone. We are with you every step of the way and you are in our hearts and prayers. Stay strong in your faith as I know you will. You are in my heart and Bentley sends healing kisses.

    Big Texas Size Hugs,
    Susan and Bentley

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  82. Debra, will be holding you in my thought and prayers. Let us know how you are doing when you are up to it. Will be thinking of you, Laura

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  83. I can see that you are a strong woman of faith and you know that God is in charge. Sending thoughts and prayers for you.

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  84. Debra, Please know that you are in my prayers. It's good that you are a woman of faith. I'll pray for the doctor to find the best treatment for you,and for your improved health. Take care and let us know how things are going.
    Hugs, and may God continue to bless you.

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  85. Oh, Debra. Bless your heart, literally. Praying now. Your photos are lovely, dear one.
    -Revi

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  86. Debra, I've been taking a break from blogging, but wanted to let you know that I'm thinking of you and hoping all is well. Even though I haven't been posting, I've been "watching from the sidelines" when I find the time and enjoying all the inspiring ideas found here.

    Take care,
    Vickie

    p.s. Your photo of the pumpkin in the urn was my favorite fall photo. :)

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  87. Debra, will say a special prayer for you today. Hope you get feeling better soon!!!!!!

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  88. Glad that all went well and you are on the road to recovery...Your faith in knowing that God is in control and will take care of you is an awesome testimony..Thanks for sharing and giving me the privilege of praying for you...Jeremiah 29:11 Hugs, Jeannie

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  89. Very sincere prayers for you, and hopefully you will be back with more beautiful photos and ideas soon...I can't imagine how difficult it must be to deal with this. Thank you for sending us to your pinboards for inspirations, incredibly thoughtful! Hurry back!
    Jenna

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  90. Dear Debra,
    I'm so sorry to hear of your condition. I will be praying for God's healing, peace, and comfort. This was such a gorgeous post, and your blog has never looked more beautiful. It has really inspired me to overhaul mine! All best wishes coming your way!
    Laura from Sunday View

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  91. Still trying to catch up on my reading.I just wanted to let you know Debra I will continue to keep you in my prayers <3
    xx
    Anne

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  92. Debra, I'm looking forward to your return. Please know that you're in my prayers for a great recovery.

    Helen

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  93. Debra, I am praying for you! I love your positive and upbeat and honest attitude! Debra I treasure your friendship also. God bless you!

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