Our Brave Girl

After a fun summer, Abby started second grade last week. It's hard to believe our little girl is that old! She'll be taking a little break from school now though, as she faces her fourth heart surgery next week. We're all pretty nervous about it, but she has been very brave over these past weeks as we've anticipated the surgery and her hospital stay. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers. Thank goodness for supportive grandparents, who will coming to help out . . . then coming back two weeks later for our baby's arrival! We're keeping them busy this month.

Her first day back on the bus . . .

Last week I spruced up our front garden with several of these red vinca plants, as a cheery pick-me-up during a difficult time. (Who can look at these and NOT feel a little better about things?) I've always believed that God created flowers for the sole purpose of lifting our spirits and making us smile, and I'm so grateful that He did.