Introducing our New Little Girl!

The Lord who is kind, redemptive, who turns the tables on difficult times and gives generously simply because he can, has given our family a gift: a new little girl!

As a word of confession, Laura and I have known about this pregnancy since early June (the due date is early February). At first we decided to say nothing to anyone since we knew all too well a miscarriage could be our lot. As the days ticked by and Laura entered the second trimester we continued to hold our breath and found we couldn’t share our news with others. Certainly we were excited but in an odd twist we found ourselves living on tender and sacred ground worried, anxious, cautious, and prayerful at every turn.

In August a special ultrasound was done and a repeat of anencephaly was ruled out. The news was met with tears of relief and, interestingly a deep mourning for Emily (we still miss her very much). Finally, last week Laura had her 20 week ultrasound and, thankfully, our little girl appears at this point healthy and active. A quick funny story: as the tech got started and we watched the black and white swirling of the ultrasound picture settle on our first good look of our daughter she was, clear as day, giving us a thumbs up (even the tech was laughing). Thank you, Lord, for your kindness and the thumbs up (so far) on a healthy pregnancy! We will keep you posted…

2 Years

Happy Birthday, Emily Jean!

Under different circumstances, today (August 29) you would be 2 years old- active, curious, and full of life. We trust you are much the same this very moment in the presence of Jesus. We all miss you very much!

With Love,

Your Family

The Glimpse

We haven’t written much on this blog this past year but this doesn’t mean we haven’t had anything to share. Emily is often on our mind and always in our heart. Now, with Emily’s birth date fast approaching and a few days of free time thanks to a short vacation it is the perfect time to pass along a special story.

Nearly a year ago, a few days after my hand accident to be exact, Laura was driving home with the kids from Iowa. As she drove the minivan somewhere in the flat scenery of Nebraska she had what she later described as a glimpse, a momentary sight of Emily- not with her eyes, but in her mind. Emily was older, beautiful with long flowing hair and her back to Laura until she turned and gave a big smile… And that was it- a glimpse, a smile but for Laura (and later for me) this was huge.

Honestly, I can be skeptical when I hear stories of visions, not because I doubt God but I question man and motive. That said, here is what I know: That glimpse has been deeply helpful to us both as well as an affirmation of the truth we cling to from Scripture: heaven is real and to be present with Jesus, whether here or there, is joy!

There is one more part of our story worth mentioning: Several weeks after Laura’s vision she was telling a close friend what happened. As the story unfolded this lady shared with joy that, unknown to Laura, she had been praying for several months that Laura would get to see her daughter Emily as she really is. This is an aggressive request from a loving friend and we are so thankful she asked and the Lord answered.

(Note: To others who read this blog who have lost a child we hope you find this account a personal encouragement)