Thursday, November 22, 2007

Happy Thanksgiving

If you asked us Monday if we'd ever be able to say that this is genuinely a happy Thanksgiving, we would have said "no way." But Nicole and I are able to say that. There are many things to give thanks for. Our parents and in-laws made it in safe last night, and proud grandparents were very glad to meet Evangeline. "Auntie" Adrienne came down yesterday morning to spend the day with us, and her pressence was a blessing; her's along with many other kind visitors who have prayed with us and spent time with us.

Nicole and I begin this day feeling well. We are greatful to my friend Dave Healing for putting us up last night at his house here in Lincoln Park. So far we have not yet been able to sleep back in our own apartment. For one, even when traffic is good its a 20 minute drive. But perhaps more difficult is the fact that all of Evie's things are as we left them on Monday morning when we thought we were off to a routine pediatrician's appointment. At this point, we're not ready to be there again yet. We do believe that after Evie's surgery we can return to our house and sleep peacefully, as we would then just be joyfully waiting for her recovery. It would be like the waiting during the pregnancy again. Indeed, this surgery is Evie's second chance at life. Thank God for second chances.

I'll remind everyone again that her surgery is now scheduled for Monday. Many members of our North Park community had planned to fast and pray for Evie on Friday to coincide with the surgery. I'd encourage them to still do that on Friday, God's faithfulness is not bound by time :) Some have asked about how they can help or if we could use a hot meal. At this point, we spend about 21 hours a day here at the hospital so hot meals will likely go cold at home. We will probably be most grateful for them next week after the surgery when we will likely be spending more time back at home while waiting for Evie's recovery. Everyone's thoughtfulness warms our hearts. This is a happy Thanksgiving.

8 comments:

Anonymous said...

thanksgiving is one of my favorite days. And today I am thankful to have you and nicole as friends and to be witness to Gods provision and faithfulness amidst this terrible-ness. Evangeline is perfectly named as even in her first days of life she is pointing hundreds of people to Christ; his healing, love, and goodness.

Giving Thanks to God
Lydia

Anonymous said...

thanksgiving is one of my favorite days. And today I am thankful to have you and nicole as friends and to be witness to Gods provision and faithfulness amidst this terrible-ness. Evangeline is perfectly named as even in her first days of life she is pointing hundreds of people to Christ; his healing, love, and goodness.

Giving Thanks to God
Lydia

Sheri said...

Nicole and Matt... I was filled in on everything yesterday and found your blog today. Adam and I are praying for you both and for your precious little Evie. I'm sure she'll come through this fine and we will remember to give thanks for her today. May God give you peace, rest and much love. I can't wait to meet her!
love,
Sheri (and Adam)

Alaina Beth said...

Matt and Nicole,

We are praying for you here in Iowa and hope that all goes well in surgery. May God bless you and give you peace.

Alaina and Kennan Archer

Unknown said...

I'm so happy to hear that things are going better. I have many friends who have added all three of you to their prayer lists. I know that the surgery will go well and that Evie will make a wonderful recovery! Happy Thanksgiving!

Anonymous said...

Happy Thanksgiving and I just wanted to let you know that I have many of my friends here in AZ praying for Evie and you guys. I too will fast and offer up my sufferings for a quick and healthy recovery for your little one!
Sarah C.

Anonymous said...

Nicole & Matt ... What a beautiful daughter you've been blessed with and I'm so excited to have your parents join us in the grandparents club!! I'm so sorry to hear of Evie's heart problem, but I have faith that everything will go well! Our youth director's daughter had multiple, severe heart problems and underwent several major open heart procedures in her first 8 weeks of life. She's now a very, very active seven year old. Our God is a very powerful healer and I have no doubt that he will be there guiding your entire surgical staff on Monday! You're all in our prayers! Love, Connie (Dumoulin)

Anonymous said...

As I read your blog I am blessed my your continued faith and attitude of Thanksgiving. I was reminded this morning of one of my favorite verses:
"May the God of all hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."
Romans 15:13.
The three of you, and all that care for Evie will continue to be in our prayers as you prepare for Monday.
Carmen