An update

Well, we are finally "back on" the blog, but we make no promises as to the frequency of this venture :)! Our lives are very full--full of lots of joy and smiles and laughs and hugs and some challenges along the way from two precious children! Not to mention the fullness of just everyday life.

We have been a family of 4 for 2 1/2 months now and it has been quite an adjustment for all. We have witnessed so many little "victories" along the way. We are thankful that, in general, we are all adjusting per "normal" standards and life around here is finally finding its new "normal".

There have been many (about a dozen) medical related appointments with our John-Nathan. Although we are about to address his most serious medical need with surgery on October 6th, he is actually one healthy, normal developing little guy for which we give thanks! We do appreciate your prayers for all of us especially John-Nathan as he has this neurosurgery on his spine. He will have to be still and lie flat for 3 to 5 days. For those who haven't met John-Nathan in person, let us tell you this is a kid who likes to move when he is awake AND when he is asleep. As this is neurosurgery he will not be on any medications to help sedate, sooooooooo please pray for him specifically in this area. This is a necessary surgery for his future health.


We have really been amazed at how God has worked to place this little one in our family from the great provisions to the very personality of John-Nathan. Yet we shouldn't be amazed, since He does "set the solitary in families". We would be lieing to say it has all been easy, but we can say with truth that the joys have outweighed the sorrows and that God has been faithful to strengthen us and see us through! With each of our children we are trusting His continued faithfulness to us as we parent them.

Julianna is a wonderful big sister and really loves her little brother. They are truly acting like brother and sister in the good ways and a few "bad" ---you wouldn't think that a 12 year old and a 3 year old could argue over toys :), but it has happened! Julianna is learning how to get her schoolwork done with a bit of action going on around her. She is rising to the new challenges and resposibilities that have come her way!


On September 5th we celebrated John-Nathan's first birthday with us. It was actually 3 days of celebration for the new 3 year old! And the celebrations were topped off with a week long visit from his Gramma Duke and Grampa Doc from Chicago.

We are grateful for all those who have prayed for us and that continue to do so. Prayers have been and are being answered!

Love to all from the 4 of us!(CR)

P.S. Enjoy the updates in pictures (below-in 2 separate posts). We know that is really what everyone wants :)!