"Listen to the mustn'ts, child. Listen to the don'ts. Listen to the shouldn'ts, the impossibles, the won'ts. Listen to the never haves, then listen close to me... Anything can happen, child. Anything can be." - Shel Silverstein

Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Happy New Year!!

It is time to say goodbye to 2008.  We are very thankful that Marissa only had one major illness this year (pneumonia in May).  This year brought us many good memories and accomplishments. Marissa learned how to crawl and walk and she learned how to use the PMV (speaking valve) so we could hear her sweet voice.  And let's not forget all the great dancing!  She is such a blessing in our lives and we are so thankful for her. Each time she acts like a "normal" toddler who gives us attitude and frustration, I have to look back on where we were 21 short months ago and be thankful.  She came very close to dying several times and the fact that she is here at all and giving her parents many gray hairs every day is such an accomplishment and a testament to the power of prayer and the Power of the Lord God Almighty.


Raise your glasses with us to a prosperous and healthy Happy New Year!!

On a different note, I am asking for your prayers for myself, Jeremy and Marissa in the next month and beyond.  Marissa's kidney surgery is a short three weeks away and Jeremy and I are already having a hard time dealing with the upcoming stress.  We talked about it just last night we and are both very nervous and scared.  Nervous and scared not only about the surgery itself and the anesthesia, but the recovery.  It was unimaginably difficult to see her have surgery as an infant and watch her recover.  Now she is old enough to understand pain and communicate her discomfort.  She also has proven to regress in her therapies after a week long cold... I can't imagine how much she will regress after her belly is cut open.  I know this surgery is necessary, but I am dreading it.  I have to admit, I feel a little silly being so nervous about this surgery.  I know of other children who have had much more intense surgeries and I can't help but think that we are lucky this is considered to be a "routine procedure".  I know of kids who have had their skulls taken apart and put back together again... twice, for pete's sake!!

Please pray for peace for our little family as we get closer to Marissa's surgery.    

P.S.  I ask for your patience and  I "HOPE" (hahaha) you understand the delay in the next installment of "The Story of Us".  Aside from the busy holiday season, I am having a hard time recalling the events of March through May, 2007.  It was a very scary and difficult time for us.  I can't believe how emotionally draining it was to write the  "Story of Us IV" post.  This one is proving to be ten times more draining.  I will post the next installment as soon as I finish it.  Thanks for your patience.  

8 comments:

Nana and PaPa said...

May we ALL have a very prosperous, HEALTHY new year! Marissa is a trooper and even though she will be facing surgery, I think she'll do very well....probably better than Mom and Dad...lol. We love you all. Happy New Year!!
Love,
Nana & PaPa

Anonymous said...

You and your family are always in my prayers. I'll be sure to add a few extra for this rough time ahead. God Bless, Happy New Year!

The Marini's said...

Happy New Year! I hope Marissa has another great year.

Dana said...

We are pryaing with you about the surgery. I always get nervous for surgery as well. We've just had no big deal surgeries after the trach, and nissen and g-tube placement. Just breath. She is in HIS hands. Good luck and keep us posted as it gets closer.
Happy new year!

Michelle said...

Happy New Year.

As always, I will be there for you guys for whatever you need!

Marissa has been through a lot and this is just one more thing.

2009 will be just fine.

Love,
Auntie Chelle

Hope said...

How did I miss this?! I had no idea Marissa needed kidney surgery. What's wrong with her kidneys?

Happy new year!

Myssie@PendletonMarket said...

I will be keeping your family in my prayers regarding Marissa's upcoming surgery. I can only imagine how nervous you and your husband must be, but find comfort in knowing that we are all here for you and praying for a speedy recovery for Marissa.

God Bless,

Finding Normal said...

My kid has had her skull taken apart and put back together. Twice. But that doesn't mean your kid's surgery is any less stressful for you. I get nervous for outpatient eye surgery and ear tubes, for heaven's sake. But just know that she's in God's hands. And don't sit in that waiting room the whole time if it's a few hours long. Wait until the nurse comes around to update (that's how it works for us anyway), then go for a walk or get a drink. The movement and change of scenery helps me.
I would tell you not to worry, but I know you will. Just spill your worries here!