Space Time Continuum Paradoxes

Two years ago today we were in Houston, TEXAS! embarking on a new chapter in our lives.  (Yes, I know I capitalized and exclamation pointed the word in the previous sentence but as we all know, everything associated with that word is bigger, bolder, and begs to be shouted from the rooftops).  At that time our little Maggie was still developing in the womb, Davey had an awkward buzz haircut that showed just a little too much forehead, Josie was enthusiastically enjoying life as a hog-caller-in-training, and Kate reveled in her newly acquired ability to read simple chapter books.  We had experienced a surreal week of preparation, heartache, and joy as everything fell into place for us to move forward with Maggie’s fetal surgery at Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital.  Two years ago today that surgery was completed by an amazing and awe-inspiring group of miracle workers.  Millie recuperated, Maggie was born, and here we are. 

In some ways, not a lot has changed—Maggie is still developing (thankfully outside of the womb this time), Davey’s hair is a bit longer and he enjoys styling it (he’s no longer allowed to get haircuts from his Dad), Josie’s inherent hog-calling talent has been wasted on singing and yelling funny things at the dinner table, and Kate continues to revel in the fun of reading chapter books.  Of course, there are other ways in which our lives have changed forever.  As we consider the past two years, we look back with intense gratitude.  Life is so good.  We are grateful to have four wonderful, beautiful, unique children.  We are grateful to have incredible family and friends who love us.  We are grateful to feel God’s love for us and recognize His hand in our lives.  If we could go back in time and share some bits of advice with our 2012 selves we would undoubtedly tell ourselves,  "Prepare yourselves for zany Disney songs involving a snowman that you'll never get out of your head, invest in Netflix, and get ready for some of the most amazing years of your lives because it just keeps getting better."

2012 Maggie

2012 Davey

2012 Josie

2012 Kate

2014 Maggie

2014 Davey

2014 Josie

2014 Kate