New Life and Holiday

On October 26, 2020, my sister gave birth to another healthy baby girl. She was 11 days early, 8 lbs. 8 oz., and her name is Madilyn. Her big sister Avery, now 7 years old loves to hold and play with her. I’m an excited auntie who is now proud to have 2 nieces to spoil. I have shared some pictures below.

Me holding Madilyn. I have the same picture of when Avery was a baby.

Big sister Avery holding Madilyn. My dog Brody loves babies and had to be in the photo!

Madilyn smiling; she is now one month old!

This year is going to be a little different with Thanksgiving. With COVID 19 going around, the governor of Minnesota shut down all restaurant and bars, along with limiting gatherings of 10 people or less. We usually host Thanksgiving and there’s usually at least 20 family members. Although we’re just going have my sister, her boyfriend, my nieces, my aunt Sandy, my mom and me for dinner.

It’s a little different with such a small amount of people, especially since we usually serve such a big meal on Thanksgiving. Although I’m thankful to have family around, supporting and helping me when needed. I know not everybody this year has that, especially since the pandemic.

I’ve been busy with both of the Bible study groups that I’m in. Like I stated a couple posts ago, since I started both groups, I sort of put aside my blog posts. For one of my groups we read certain verses and answer questions that go along with it. It’s thought-provoking and engaging, but between the 2, it’s a lot of reading.

Jenni

Celebrating Life with a SCI

When a person has a spinal cord injury, they may experience a mix of emotions. It’s also one of the most traumatic things they will ever face. Due to it, people may experience physical or emotional side effects. However, life after a spinal cord injury can be managed.

Some days, my mind might wander off and I feel down. In those cases, I try to keep my mind occupied and engaged by doing other activities. These include things like painting, writing, watching movies or reading. I'm usually able to keep myself composed and engaged in the present moment.

Today marks the 18th year anniversary of my accident. Since then, it has forever altered the way I go about doing things. It may be a change, but it doesn’t define who I am. I refuse to let my injury beat me. It’s important to me to have a good perspective on life. I like to be positive and optimistic about things. That means choosing to celebrate even the smallest victories.

Aside from some of the “hard times”, I know that life with a spinal cord injury is worth living. Whether someone is injured or not, life can be difficult. That is why I like to share my story with others. I believe there is a point to every single moment. I try to experience as many things as I can in the time that I am here because life is short. 

Jenni