Pictures of Isaac

Isaac Update

Isaac Samuel Triumph King is a little fighter! He is 6 days old today! The Lord has been so gracious to allow us such precious time with him. We have confirmed he has Trisomy 18, though we don't know the extent of it, and we don't care about labeling him like the medical community does. Isaac is so sweet; I love cuddling with him and holding his little clenched hands and kissing his darling face.

We finally named him! Isaac had been on my heart ever since we found out he had some health conditions. Isaac, because Abraham laid his Isaac down knowing God would provide, no matter what. The name also means "he laughs". Isaac is a gift, and we know any tears we cry now will be exchanged for joy someday. In the Word, Hannah dedicated her Samuel back to the Lord, and that is how we feel with Isaac. "Triumph" because Christ has already triumphed over every fear we have, over sin and death, and He will bring us triumph through this!

The older four of us have stayed at the hospital in family rooms with Mom and Dad for the last two nights. They haven't been home since Isaac was born, or had the sleep they need so much. We crave a little bit of normal during this time, but it's hard to come by. If Isaac could eat on his own, things might change.

JD, Cody, Hannah and I needed showers and a clean change of clothing, so we came home after two days at the hospital. It feels good. We're heading back to the hospital in a little bit for another plunge. Our grandparents on Dad's side are here and have been helping with Will Jed and Wyatt at home. Grandparents on Mom's side got here yesterday and will stay for a week to help out where they can. We're so thankful grandparents can be here and meet Isaac!

Isaac is still having bouts of apnea. It could partly be triggered by a heart medication he is on, but it's such a low dose we don't know if it is contributing to his apnea, or if it's even helping his little heart. He seems very peaceful and content, thank the Lord. God is merciful and good. During the past few days we thought he was totally gone from apnea 3 different times, but he came back. It's an exhausting emotional roller-coaster. His breathing is shallow sometimes; he's on oxygen and IV for nutrients. For the last 48+ hours we've taken turns holding him in a recliner. He hasn't even used that crib of his.

We're so humbled and thankful for the faithful prayers of so many dear friends, and want you to know we love you.

We continue to trust the Lord and seek Him. Isaac has already touched our lives so much, and the lives of others around us. We just need His strength, mercy and grace desperately. The Lord will provide...

A Post for Will

I missed posting on Will's birthday on March 25th due to the flow of life lately. But I'm still going to "celebrate" my sweet little brother with a post and some pics.

William Jon is 7 years old now, and he is finally starting to grow into the teeth he got last year. He is a very gentle-hearted little fellow with a sunshiny personality. We are so thankful for him and his big smile! He has a big mind too. He has memorized several chapters of Scripture. He can tell you exactly where Kazakhstan is on the globe. And he can beat people several times his age in matching game, respectively. He is reading and writing well already. He also enjoys playing golf (on the Wii, on the putting green with his big brothers, and the card game), and is an up-and-coming Settlers of Catan whiz. He's such a blessing to our family, and we're so thankful for him!

Will and his chocolate cake.
I like putting organic cacao nibs on the top for a sophisticated look and mature crunchy taste. :)

Best buddies Jed and Will - I adore these guys. They are my favorite ever.