Happy Birthday Brother Bear!

So, I should have posted this yesterday, but I was too depressed about the fact that I was missing yet another of my nephews birthdays. I am still a little sad about that, but I am choosing to accept that there is a lesson in all of this and that God has allowed this in order to accomplish something good in me.

But let me tell you the story of our little Sky-bear. He was born one Friday afternoon two years ago. I was away at a Women's Retreat with the ladies of Calvary Chapel Surprise. But instead of enjoying my time as a grape in our skits, I was worrying about my beloved Stephani and the baby that she had carried less than 8 months. I was wishing I could be bringing my brother coffee as he paced the waiting room, or reading books to my niece and teaching her to pray for her new brother. Logically, I knew that my presenc

e wouldn't help my nephews lungs develop, or help my sister-in-laws liver function. But somehow, I felt, if I could be there, they would be better. I could help. I could DO something.

That Sunday, as soon as I was back in town, I rushed home, packed an over-night bag and headed to the hospital to take care of the new mom while daddy went to work. I brought her water, and wheeled her down to the nursery. We laughed and tried not to worry about the fragile boy who was more connected than my laptop. I was allowed to change his diaper, allowing me more contact than my sisters or parents had been allowed so far, and in that moment, as his little read legs kicked and his little chest rose and fell with his gasping breaths, my heart melted.

Please save him, Lord, I prayed. I don't think I could live without him.

About two weeks later, Skyler James went home to a new house, two loving parents, and a doting three year old sister. His parents and doctors constantly monitored his breathing and heart rate. Every sneeze caused fear, and every cough brought panic. He had many doctor's visits, and again I prayed. Please keep him, Lord. We need this little boy.

By Thanksgiving, he was a mostly healthy baby boy. He had made it to his due date. He was breathing normally, and his monitors were no longer needed. By Christmas, he was gaining weight, and by the time I said goodbye in August of the next year, he was in the 90th percentile for non-premature babies.

Now, he's two. He's got a huge smile, and a personality to match. Every time I look into his big blue-green eyes, my heart melts all over again. And every time I hear his uproarious laugh, I am reminded of the miracle of his life. And I breathe a different prayer. Thank you, Lord, for this little boy. Thank you, for letting me be part of his life.

I am truly blessed to be part of this miracle. This is for you, Sky. Your Tee loves you.