I AM PREGNANT + Prayer request + GREAT Jewelry GIVEAWAY

[Cami Walker -- 29Gifts Founder]

I am on deadline again for my proposal for Book Two. I wish I could reveal the title so I could stop calling it "Book Two," but the book is only optioned (not yet contracted) with my publisher, so I must remain hush-hush for now.  I am horrible at keeping track of time (and keeping secrets). I wish I was already off to the races to work on the fun part -- writing the manuscript. I am good at that part. I enjoy the process. I hope to retreat somewhere so I can focus on just writing the book. I am looking at a place near Austin, Texas because my youngest sister lives there and I have not gone to visit her since she moved at age 18 to do undergrad work. She is about to defend her PhD dissertation, so I have clearly fallen down on my sisterly duties staying away for so long. It would be cool to be near her for a short time before she officially becomes "Dr. Walker" and then packs up and moves to New York City to start her new brainiac neuroscience research project. Oh, did I mention that my youngest sister is seriously smart? I can't fathom having a science mind like hers. I am just a storyteller.

 

Most days I strictly limit myself to two hours or less of computer time to avoid pain flaring up. Since I arrived on the West Coast in March, I have been struggling to get my footing (literally) and continue to make progress. I have fallen a few times and each time I take a few steps forward, something pops up and sends me backwards. Good thing I was taught how to fall "correctly" in physical therapy back in 2008... or I might have a broken bone or two instead of just bruises all over my body.  My new team of specialists (who ROCK) have diagnosed some additional problems with my neck (cervical spine) and mid back (thoracic spine). I have a number of treatment choices to make, including a possible spinal surgery. I am excited about the possibilities, however just found out two weeks ago that I am PREGNANT! In fact today I am TEN WEEKS PREGNANT, which is so exciting I want to explode.

 

The baby growing in my belly is certainly BIG NEWS. The pregnancy was such a surprise it feels like a huge gift from God. I feel a bit like I struck it rich in the lottery. So far, it has been challenging because the doctors had to change all of my medication very fast. I have been vomiting non-stop for two months now but the doctors say this is a good sign that my pregnancy hormones are raging. Since we made it past the eight week mark, there is now only a 5% chance of miscarriage and they have given me a shot to help keep the baby safe. So far, so good. The baby and I welcome prayers from all of you so please send good energy our way.

 

I want to THANK you all for helping me help Elly Rose Kick Cancer in August. We easily reached our $1,500 fundraising goal, which allowed us to cover Elly's rent for three months. Take a moment to read the update below from Elly.

 

August 21, 2012 Update from Elly Rose: I just had Chemo treatment #5.  My next treatment will be half way. My doctor is amazed at my numbers and my blood pressure.  He says I am the "healthiest" cancer patient he has ever treated! One of my side effects are blurry eyesight.  It is like I am trying to see the world through a kaleidoscope.  Dr. Davis promises this will pass, but I have chosen not to drive right now.  The weather has cooled and I am walking again.  Soon I will be back to 3 miles and then I will focus on the 5 mile mark. If all stays on schedule my last chemo session will be November 27th.  Dr. Davis has scheduled a cat scan and we will know a more then. My son, the teacher, came with his family to visit me this summer.  We had a wonderful visit.  I know that he felt he had to come because of the cancer.  But he left feeling relief after spending time with me, he sees I am really doing well. Your love, support, prayers and financial support continue to buoy me up.  I am blessed to have so many friends here sending me healing thoughts and prayers.  Thank you to everyone.

 

September Theme:  Spreading Kindness. We all have in our power the way to uplift lives and inspire kindness. Step outside yourself for a minute each day and find a way to just be kind. John Kimbrough offers these suggestions in his ABC's to kindness. Click here for more ideas!

Affirm a value.
Beam a smile.
Convey a compliment.
Drop a line.
Encourage a good deed.
Forgive a mistake.

 

GREAT GIVEAWAY: THREE NECKLACE AND EARRING SETS

I decided to celebrate my pregnancy by hitting a sidewalk sale to shop for giveaway items. I found these lovely jewelry sets made out of glass. I am thrilled to offer them up for lucky three winners. Leave a comment here on this discussion by Sept 29, 2012 to enter to win.

[Susan Young]

Congratulations to you and Kevin! I joined the 29gifts crusade 3 years ago. Please don't say you are "just a storytelller"...you ARE a storyteller, and a damn good one at that!!! 

Wishing you health and happiness,

Susan

[Jessica Burns]

I haven't been on the site in quite some time, and I am thrilled to hear you are expecting.  Sending prayers to you as you embark on such a magical journey.

[Nat sweetie]

fab news that you are expecting, blessings and prayers coming your way

[Jezga]

I'm praying for you and the baby!

[Nifer]

Congratulations! Wishing you a happy and healthy pregnancy! I'll pry for your family

[Jenny Sparkles]

So happy for you to be having a baby!!  How wonderful!!  Babies are truly a gift from God.  It is not easy, but being a mother is one of the greatest blessings in the world!!  It is a Divine calling and you will love it!  Love and Hugs!! Peace and Prayers!!

 

 

[Sasha L]

Congratulations Cami!!!  I'm so happy for you.  I've read your book several times and I always have wondered, "Did Cami ever have a baby?"  Sending you positive thoughts and lots of prayers for healthy baby growing.  (I'm a doula so I have good pregnancy and birth juju, lol :)  You said your sis was a brainiac, great at science and you're "only a storyteller."  Wow.  You are such an amazing storyteller Cami.  You have changed so many lives.  You're definitely not "only" anything.  Finally (!), I can't wait for the new book.  I never ever buy books but I will definitely have to buy that one.  I won't be able to wait for my library's copy (I'm also a librarian).

[rocken nana wwt]

So glad for you Cami.  Will keep you and your family in  my prayers.  d

[AtikokanAnnie]

Congratulations!! Big news all round.  I will definately be praying for good health for Elly Rose, you and your baby!  Can't wait to read the new book, as I was truly inspired by the first.  Namaste!

[TColeman]

What an exciting time! Babies are such a blessing! Prayers to you and your family!