Thankful Thursday

1. While we were away, I was dreading this week.  Waiting for me on the calendar was a full load of therapy, 3 different appointments for Marcus to be assessed by his potential new school, and another perinatologist appointment (which is tomorrow).  I wanted to stay in Hawaii because there, I felt like my trials were halted, although they still existed.  I didn't want to have to face Marcus' challenges, and I for sure didn't want to hear more "bad news" about the health of this baby.  So after we got back, I was depressed and scared about facing the week.

So we prayed for grace, and like always, He answered.  So far, this week hasn't been as discouraging as I thought it would be.  In fact, Marcus did real well during the assessments and I think he may really enjoy his new school come June.  We continue to pray that  tomorrow's appointment will be an encouraging one and if not, that God would give us greater faith to trust Him.

Most of all, this passage has been an immense encouragement:

Lamentations 3:21-25

But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.  "The Lord is my portion," says my soul, "therefore I will hope in him."  The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him.

2. The women of our care group met last night.  I'm always so amazed by everyone's vulnerability and through their sharing, I see Christ.  It boggles my mind that God loves each of us so intricately and He creates challenges in our lives that are perfectly designed for each of us.  I came away marveling at how sovereignly He ordains pain, and how generously He bestows His love on us...even if we may not understand why we are suffering at the time.

3. Marcus has been enjoying his PT sessions and his therapist has been encouraged by the new things he's been up to.  Here are some pics of Monday's treatment.  Notice that he is coming up to stand on his own (pushing off from a couch cushion) and that he is even standing without support for a few seconds!

Pushing off



Lifting up my torso



Almost there...



I'm upright!



This is FUN!



Standing all by myself!



Woo hoo!



Mr. Mark, are you still there?



Ta-da!