Happy Thanksgiving

So it's Thanksgiving.

This has been a year of many things to be thankful for. Our son, who was born dead, is alive and thriving. Our house burned, yet God's timing is perfect and we were able to keep it in perspective. Our family has drawn closer together, and we have seen God provide over and over.

I am thankful.

Yesterday, Jethro had a cardiologist appt. We were able to take him off one more med. His heart looked great on the echo, and he doesn't have to go back to the cardiologist until March ~ he said if the roads were good and we wanted, we could come back in February. :-)

I have said it before, but I want to repeat it. I am so very thankful for the Drs. God has provided for Jethro. Dr. Rick, who is never afraid to give us worse case scenario, but is also willing to spend the time answering my many, many questions. Who had the unenviable task of talking with us just after Jethro's birth and laying out our options, but was compassionate and understanding.Who made sure that we knew that Jethro's Dr.s were among those praying for him ~ what a comfort and encouragement that was!

Dr. Burg aka Sunshine, who gave us the news of Jethro's diagnosis, but always held out hope. She's been the cardiologist in both surgery's and is always on top of things immediately following surgery.

Dr. Carl, who is also very good about answering my questions, erring on the side of caution, and providing memorable quotes.

Dr. Anderson, who specializes in rhythm issues. I have been so thankful for his expertise and care when Jethro has had severe arrythmia issues.

Dr. Hrar aka Hurricane Hrar. :-) He always brings a tremendous amount of energy into a hospital room, and though we haven't seen him as much, the wisdom and experience he brings are invaluable.

Dr. Worrall, the surgeon who's skilled hands God used to repair Jethro's little heart so that it could sustain life.

I am thankful for the entire staff at NWCCHD. From the sweet gals at the front desk to the surgery scheduler, to the nurses and records  transcriptionist. Everyone has been so supportive and such an encouragement, and gone above and beyond in gettin' it done ~ no matter what the "it" is.

We are so thankful for the nurses who lovingly care for Jethro when he is in the hospital. What an outstanding group of (mostly) ladies. There are a few guys in there! They give their all, they recognize us whether they see us at the hospital or not, and it's obvious they genuinely care about the little folks entrusted to them. I have often said, I would much rather be home, but if I can't be home, there's no place I'd rather be than Sacred Heart. And I can't forget the Palliative Care staff, especially Caroline, Beth, and the social workers, All have eased the way while Jethro was in the hospital.

The therapists that have worked with Jethro. Karen, Natasha, Jessica, and Lynn. We are extremely thankful for their expertise and care. They have gotten us through feeding issues, reflux, and physical limitations...and they are sooo excited when he makes strides forward!

I am thankful for the adult CHDers, and heart parents that God has brought into my life since Jethro was born, what wonderful, precious friends they are, and I feel so blessed to have them in my life.

I am thankful that we are here, 9 months later with a mostly healthy baby, who is happy and content. Who loves his brothers and sisters, and is doing really well. :-) I am thankful for Will, Levi, Garth, Logan, Kathleen, Laura, Josiah and Ezra too. Each one is such a blessing and adds so much joy to our family. Each one is so unique and special, and I feel so privileged to be their Mama. I am thankful for my precious husband and our 21 years of marriage.

I have also found myself more and more thankful for Tucker, our son who died 6 years ago. Now, walking this journey with Jethro, I really believe part of Tucker's purpose was to prepare me to parent Jethro. I am thankful that God walked us through that deep, dark valley. I am thankful that He is faithful and true. I am thankful that He never lets go. I am thankful for all I learned of Him during that time, because it has enabled me to walk this valley in faith, hope and trust.

I am thankful that God pulled me from the mire and cleansed me. That He continues to work on me, molding me further and further into the image of His precious Son and my Savior, Jesus. I am thankful I live in a country where I can freely share that.

So, with a heart full of praise and thanksgiving, may I wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving from our home to yours.