Happy New Year!! Wow. It has been one crazy year for me. This year our family has gone through some difficult challenges, and some good ones. As I look back on the last two years I think I could say there are many events that stick out. One day in particular being December 8Th of last year. It was the day, a year ago, Ida Marie was diagnosed with leukemia. I could not help but to think all she has gone through this year, as I sat down to write to you. I know I have said many times how God has providentially brought us (Ida Marie) through. I truly mean this when I say God has brought beauty out of ashes, and I stand amazed. Only one could do this, and that is God.
Abi, my sister, turned fourteen December 7Th. I had every intention of writing a blog post just for her, but as you can see I got very busy and caught up in the distractions of life. So Abi, I dedicate this paragraph entirely to you.
Abi, you make me smile in so many ways. I don’t think there is anyone that makes me smile the way you do. I love how we can die laughing until we fall on the ground holding our stomachs. I know now not to ever look at you when there is an awkward silence at someone’s house or during church. Because when I do that goofy smile of yours is on your face and it’s all I can do to hold my laughter in.
How beautiful you are inside and out. On Sunday mornings I am always asking you to help me pick out what to wear. Because you have a great gift of putting outfits together! Guess I never really thanked you for that, So Thanks!
I know I don’t say it as much as I should, but I love you and always will. Happy Birthday Love!
Ida Marie is doing so well! She is now going to Atlanta once a month instead of once a week. It has made huge difference! She is running round playing with everyone and giggling! It is a delight! It bring tears to my eyes to think that a year ago she was sick in bed, and not able to get up. It was almost as if she had lost the will to live, and that breaks my heart. But now she is like a new person. Yes, she still gets sick with fever, and has some bad days (when on steroids) but not as much as she did when she was going to Atlanta once a week. I praise God for that!
About three weeks ago when we had some really bad weather (snow and ice) Ida started getting a temperature. I can say I experienced a miracle of the Lord that night. Here is what had written in my journal the next day…
I have experienced a true miracle. It was late Sunday night… The wind was blowing harshly with icy raindrops that pierced the treetops. Ida Marie began to run a 100-degree fever. Five to seven inches of snow was expected in Atlanta with serious Ice and freezing conditions here at home. My heart was heavy with the thoughts of my parents having to travel in the horrible conditions with a sick little one. I bowed my head and prayed…. “Lord not my will but yours be done.” I asked God to take away her fever. As mama checked her fever once more, her temperature had gone back down to normal! My heart was filled with strength and comfort. I think it is the little things we do not often “think” of as miracles. In addition, God says ever so gently, “Hannah I am still on my throne and I am still in control.” That is why I continue…
Blessings,
P.s A new family member! LOL ;)
