Sweetness...

-In response to our/your prayers and His provision, God showed off at Grace's cardiology this week!  Grace's cardiologist did something out of the norm, which is come to the room that Grace had her echo (where Grace is still fully sedated) to do her exam and look at the echo images.  The benefit to this strategy is that she could get a good listen to Grace because she was knocked out verses squirming around or fussing at her because she's had enough of people bugging her.  The gradient across her mitral valve (where she has the melody valve = the jugular of a cow) was 4-5 (which is great because it's unchanged from last visit and less than it was when we first returned from Boston, and for a visit or two after) and her Dr couldn't hear a gallop (a third beat that is an indicator that the heart isn't totally happy).  In past visits, she could barely hear a very slight gallop, which was great because her heart has become much more quiet over time (the happier it gets the quieter it gets :-).  Lastly, her Dr made a comment about how her cardiologist in Boston should have a poster of Grace all over his office because of how amazing she's doing (considering where she has come from).  We absolutely, positively ADORE our cardiologist in Boston, but we know the truth of the matter is that Grace's poster hangs on our hearts as a testimony of God's mighty work, and awesomeness.

Ephesians 3:20English Standard Version (ESV)

20 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us,

We are well aware that our battle for Grace's life (we know all too well that things can take a scary turn in a heartbeat), and to find peace and joy on this Divinely designed roller coaster (that is our life), is far from over, but we choose to cling to God, praising Him and celebrating every milestone along the way (especially knowing that you, our Village, are with us on this journey, often times carrying us along the way :-).  Will you please pray for Grace's overall health?  At this moment will you please pray specifically that Grace would be spared from a viral infection that seems to be going on all around her?  She has a very minor cough as of yesterday, but I can't help but fear that a fever spike might be around the corner.  THANK YOU!!!

-On Friday one of my sister in loves had a Dr appointment in the medical center (where I work) and my other sister in love joined her, so I got to get together with both of them for lunch!  Growing up as an only child, I never knew what I was missing in having a sibling until I met these two wonderful ladies 15+ years ago.  I wish I had a picture of this sweet event, but here is a tribute to sisters...

While I've never had one, thanks to Andrew, I know that brothers are fun, protective, and precious, so here's to siblings!!!

Sunday morning snuggles...

-Friday night Grace got to spend some quality time with one of her favorite friends.  This is what happened when they didn't know anyone was watching (they didn't know they were being watched until I asked Grace to give Noah a kiss at the end)...

Time for bed!  Isn't this how you sleep?

(((hugs))) and blessings, sweet Village!