Saturday, March 3, 2012

It's been a bit of a week.  A week ago we were headed for Grand Rapids because our newest grandson decided that he couldn't wait 7 more weeks to join us.  Nina and Jamie are on cloud nine and little Ben is doing very well.  I am constantly amazed at how well premies do in this day and age.  It was comforting to see stories of all the babies - how early they were born and how they thrive today. They were all over the wall in the neonatal unit.  Hundreds of babies and hundreds of stories of hope.  If you've never been to the NICU at Spectrum in Grand Rapids, it is truly wonderful!!

Anna, Kelli, Sam, and I went down yesterday.  We were able to touch him.

We even got to see Nina hold him.  Anna and I were so excited that we forgot to turn our flashes off which is why Nina is cringing in the picture.

This picture wasn't taken yesterday, but this post wouldn't be complete without a pic of Daddy and Ben.

We also had an impromptu mini shower in the lobby before scrubbing up to see Ben

In other news, the Maple Syrup Festival is fast approaching and between that, making gift soap for the Girls on the Run gift bags, filling Christmas stocking orders, and getting ready for a welcome party for Ben, we have a lot to do.  (not to mention that big big feast of the Church coming up.)  Oh, and squeezing in time for my new addiction - making rag rugs - I have no excuse for not staying out of trouble!

Word of the day:
Saturday of the First week of Lent
Saint(s) of the day : St. Cunegundes, Empress (+ 1040)
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 5:43-48.

Jesus said to his disciples: "You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.
But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you,
that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust.
For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have? Do not the tax collectors do the same?
And if you greet your brothers only, what is unusual about that? Do not the pagans do the same?
So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.