Blessed

Yesterday was one of those days when you are reminded that life is good and God is great! Ansley had her one year check-up at the pediatrician and we are thankful to report that she is a thriving, healthy twelve month old! Here are the stats from her visit yesterday...
Weight: 20 lbs. 6 oz. (50%)
Length: 31 inches (80%)

Dr. Barron also checked her ears and her tubes are still in place and he said her ears look "beautiful and clear", which was music to our ears! He also said it looks as if she is cutting about four teeth right now which accounts for all the chewing, drooling and occasional fussiness. She still only has three teeth right now (two on the bottom and one on the top). All her blood work came back normal. Dr. Barron was also impressed with her communication skills as she showed off in the exam room saying "dog", "uh-oh", and "momma" and clapping and blowing him kisses (this was before she got her shot...I don't think she wanted to blow him any kisses afterwards!) . On a side note, I have to admit I always feel a little embarrassed when Ansley says "dog" to other people and there is no dog in sight...I hope they don't think she is calling them a "dog" :)

As the doctor left our room yesterday, he said "all I can say is you guys are very blessed." I echo that...we are. All glory to God who entrusted us with Ansley and has protected her, gifted her and blessed her with healthy growth and development. As we pulled out of the parking lot, I reminded myself to never take her health for granted. There are so many precious little children who are suffering around our world and who don't receive the care they need to thrive.

After her appointment, we headed downtown to have dinner with friends from our small group and then we headed over to UAB hospital where we delivered baskets filled with snacks, books, gum, drinks, magazines, etc. to people in the ICU waiting rooms who have family or friends in critical condition. We encountered people who were in need of cheering up, a smile, a prayer,or simply a bite to eat. One women even began to cry as she was given goodies that did not cost her anything. Ansley and many of our friends' children went along and spread some happiness to those in desperate need of joy. I remember when my grandmother was in ICU for 93 days when I was in the 8th grade. My mom and grandfather stayed at the hospital the entire time and I know the people they encountered and the ways they were blessed helped them make it through each passing day. While I was there last night, I was reminded that at any given time there are countless people who are hurting, worried, waiting and praying for a miracle in those hospital waiting rooms.

Driving home from the hospital last night with our baby girl fast asleep in her carseat, I was overwhelmed by God's goodness. Who are we that He would be mindful of us? We are indeed blessed!