Hanging of the Greens

Our Little Mary

Today our church hosted "Hanging of the Greens." Decorations were made and hung throughout the church and the kids could participate in a variety of activities. One of the activities was a dress up station where kids could dress up like Biblical Characters and have their picture taken. Josh and Emma dressed up as Joseph and Mary. Emma took her role as Mary quite seriously. She cuddled baby Jesus and posed while people watched. She enjoyed the part so much, she dressed up twice:) Josh spent most of his time stringing popcorn garland and making ornaments. We all had a great time. It is such a blessing to be a part of a local church and spend time with people you love and respect. We truly live a blessed life.

Thankfulness

As I reflect on this year I am constantly reminded of the blessings that God has given me. When I think of the things for which I am thankful, every single one of those things has been given to me by God. This year has been a year of testing and trials, but through it all my Father has been there every moment. Some of the things I am thankful for...

• My Savior and the gift of eternal life.
• An amazing family. I have a wonderful husband who loves me unconditionally and I have been blessed with some pretty great kids:)
• Madeylyn. I am thankful that God did not allow Madelyn to be taken from us early in the pregnancy. We almost lost her, but he spared her life...for a while. Because of that, we had the privilege of meeting her before we had to say goodbye. I can't even put into words how much meeting her meant to us and how it changed our lives.
• My church family. They really are like my own family and I can't imagine having to go through what he have this year without them.

An Incredible Blessing

Two months ago today, my husband and I welcomed a beautiful little girl into our loving arms. Saying goodbye to her was the most difficult thing we have ever done, but meeting her was one of our greatest blessings. I struggle putting into words how difficult, yet joyous, these past two months have been. We have seen our Heavenly Father work in ways that we never have before. His comfort, provision and grace have been displayed in marvelous ways. I consider it such a privilege and honor to be Madelyn's mother. She has blessed our lives in so many ways. Madelyn's life here on Earth may have been short, but her impact has been great.

Missing you much Madelyn.

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