Humbled

I know I have said before that we have an unbelievable support system, but I don't really think I ever know how big it really is. I knew when Levins was born that we would never be alone. Our faith tells us that we are never alone. Our family, church family, and friends let us know how much support we really have this past Sunday.

We have always been believers in infant baptism. I know God watches over our children no matter what, but I feel it is important for us as parents as well. The humbling time in this process was standing in front of our church congregation. I was holding Levins with her food pump and oxygen. Cullie was holding Rett. Our minister made a comment that he forget the tissues. Standing up there and looking through the crowd was humbling. Seeing all the people that we haven't seen lately but have received cards or meals from was something I can't describe. Levins was born into a great "village." Cullie and I understand that we can not do this alone, and I can assure you we understand that we won't have to. It was a big day for us. It was kind of like the day when we brought her out for good. A lot of people got to see her and it felt good to see the smiles on everyone's faces. Believe it or not I did hold it together. I could not look at certain people because I knew I would loose it. I saw several people with tears in their eyes. That put everything into perspective.

Our daily routine is starting to come together. Cullie is at home with the most important job in the world. She still amazes me on a daily basis. Being at home with the girls every day can be challenging. I know that she would have it no other way. She sends me pictures of she and the girls throughout the day. Normally with all smiles.

Levins is a very determined child. She gets that from Cullie. She is going to sit up soon and I am sure she would have already rolled over if it wasn't for her feeding tube. She does have a few delays but nothing out of the ordinary from being in the NICU 4 months. She is about 2 months behind for a 5 month old. I didn't read books on what Levins should be doing based on DS. I told myself that she will determine what she can or cannot do. She will not be 2 months behind for long. She will change several people's thinking on what a child with DS is capable of accomplishing.

Rett has shown me how strong she is. She has always been strong-willed and determined as well. I was always concerned how she would react to having Levins needing special attention. I can tell you she has taken everything in stride. Of course we have our 3 year old moments a lot but she understands how special it is to have Levins home. She will sneak up to Levins when no one is around and give her kisses. My fear of who will watch over Levins later in life is always answered by our 3 year old.

I can tell you that your marriage is very important when you have children. I could not make it through this time in our lives if our marriage was not strong. Spend time together and make time for each other. Your children can tell when you are stressed. I'm not saying everything in life will be perfect everyday because it won't, but get up everyday and try. Try to be a better husband and father. Trust me I have a lot to work on and so does everyone else. If your family is blessed with a child that has DS, stress will come. Focus on the important things and don't dwell on the minor things. Is your house going to spot less or is your garage cleaned everyday? No chance. I encourage you to focus on the relationships in your home.  That is what matters at the end of the day. Sorry I'll get off my soap box, but I think it's important.

Please continue to pray for our family. Do know that we can never thank each one of you enough.