Year One

1st Family Photo: July 2006

"You know, we could be mourning today, but Praise the Lord!", Kristina said to me this morning.

A year ago at this time (approx 9 AM), I wasn't sure what was going to happen to our little child. There had been some problems the night before and we rushed to the hospital. Though we thought we were at least 12 weeks away from having a baby, God had different plans.

Probably the most difficult thing for me was calling our parents. I could not get the words out about what was happening. I didn't know if I was losing my wife and child. They were able to check the heartbeat and everything was o.k., but they couldn't slow down the labor. We transferred to another hospital in the middle of the night. They took Kristina in an ambulance and I followed in the Explorer. I was reminded really quick how our lives our in God's hands.

Our families joined us in the morning about this time a year ago and we had probably the sweetest time of prayer that I've ever had in my life. We poured out our hearts before the Lord trusting in His providence and sovereign control over all things. We asked for the faith and strength to rest in His goodness and bless His name regardless of whether He chose to give or to take away. I cannot imagine having gone through all this without the promise that He is a very present help in trouble, and that all things work together for good for those who are called according to His promise.

Caleb was born around 1020 AM. As soon as he came out the doctor held him up and he let out a little whimper. Then they immediately took him to the NICU. We got to meet him a little while later. He was so tiny. 2 and a half pounds. It's hard to believe where he is today.

I praise God for His lovingkindness and mercy toward us in and through His Son, Jesus. I thank Him for the many, many people family, friends, church family and even folks across the world who were praying for our son. God is always good, and He chose to be gracious.

Happy Birthday, Caleb! We love you!

(click on pics for larger size)

BEFORE CUPCAKE...

...AND AFTER CUPCAKE...

(Pics are from a little 1st birthday party we had for him on Friday.)