Two Wonderful Weeks

Playing "horsey" is getting a little tougher these days.

If I believed in "jinxing" right now I wouldn't be writing this post.  But I don't.  I believe in a God that binds up the broken hearted, heals the sick, turns ashes into beauty, who restores the years the locust have eaten,  and is close to the grieving.  What an awesome God to serve.  I don't know why and I don't know if it will continue but Joni has had two wonderful weeks.  She has been happy, more independent, acting the part of a little sister to Colston, and even began talking!  She can say "dog", "mama", "baby", "dada", "more", "ya", "up", "help" and today...."noodle".  I honestly think something just clicked with her and she has been able to move forward cognitively, relationally and emotionally.  I am prepared for perhaps a time of regression and that Joni's mood might turn but I am still grateful for these past weeks.  Not only have they been a needed respite but they have given me a true vision of what our family can look like.  And gosh, it's beautiful!  I mean, THIS is what I've prayed for and wanted for so many years.  I really hope God is showing me that He is faithful, that He has been listening, that He is powerful and that He wants to bless us beyond our imagination.  I also really hope that if it gets difficult again I still have the courage and endurance to love Joni unconditionally, trust that God loves me, and the perspective that our story (The Prinzing Family Story) has many, many more years to weave a beautiful ending.    

God Bless America, Land that I Love.

We had a wonderful 4th of July that included a parade, park, fishing, friends, and fireworks.  Ever since we got back from a visit to my parent's house Joni has been doing great, praise the Lord!  I have to say that I'm happy to ride the happy/secure/receptive Joni wave as long as I can but I can feel my heart bracing for the switch.  It occurred to me that perhaps it takes a lot of effort for Joni to be...well happy..and a part of a family, and that maybe some days she just doesn't have it in her (like especially when she is sick).  This is a sad thought to me and I hope and pray that one day contentment/security/joy/connection will become her new "MO" and come naturally.  Thanks for sharing in this journey with me friends, I feel God's blessings today and I know you all will stand with me on the days I don't "feel" them as much.