Unexpected Turn...

"Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails."

Proverbs 19:21, NIV 

Life is full of unexpected turns, but it is the Love of God that brings us home!  It has been a a full year and a half of twists and turns - never before fathomed - but today we stand on the cusp of a turn that we did not see coming...so soon.  It was exactly a year ago to the day, when the incredible blessing of the moving trucks (if you remember that amazing story and gift of God's provision) unloaded our belongings in this amazing house that we have called home now for a year!  As the boxes made their way in the front door, it was bittersweet! This home is absolutely beautiful and more than anything we could ever dreamed of, but we knew that this was only a temporary place to lay our heads.  But we did not see it in our plans that the moving trucks would be back this morning...

"Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart."

Psalm 37:4, NIV

For more than two years now - Kelly and I, with our wise counsel, have been praying through a desire the Lord gave to us to move to Charlotte, NC.  It was only a few weeks into the interview process with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association in 2008 that we felt His leading - but there was always a clear reason/purpose presented by the Lord to let us know that the timing was just not right.  So for two years...we waited.  When we sold our home in June of 2009 there were conversations then about moving to Charlotte - but it was only 3 weeks into the sale of our home that we found out about Jackson's diagnosis of Hypo-plastic Left Heart Syndrome, and the life-changing physical, mental, emotional and spiritual journey that we were thrusted into! 

Four months ago, an incredible brother in the Lord and my Managing Director, Ed, flew up from South Carolina to spend a week with me in Baltimore and Washington D.C.  We had several great meetings and conversations through out the week - but I will never forget the pivotal, life-changing conversation during the car ride home.  As we drove through Frederick, MD on the way to Pittsburgh, PA, Ed through me an curve ball I was not prepared for.  I did not see the "twist" that was right around the corner, until we were about an hour into conversation, when it became clear that the Lord was moving powerfully - and He wanted my attention!  

It was a week later that I was officially offered the new position of Regional Manager in Charlotte, NC - one that I did not see myself in nor think that I was the right person.  My response..."who am I that I should go"? 

For the next week, Kelly and I prayed - and prayed hard - with our wise counsel - seeking Peace and Oneness in the Lord as we discerned a response.  Tthe scripture reference that became very clear was that of Abraham and Sarah in their "wait" for the Promise of the Lord.  They were given a desire and a promise to have a son...but they took matters into their own hands, not waiting on the Lord's PERFECT timing and Abraham laid with a servant...and thus Ishmael.  The Promise - Isaac - was delivered on, but we still feel the effects of their sin today. 

So we said NO...or more like "not yet".  There were just too many obstacles medically, financially and within our family dynamics that just did not give us Peace that God was calling us to this position - at this time.  The Lord clearly said..."Wait".  And so we did...

Three weeks later - I was sitting down with one of Jackson's doctor's, and a great brother in the Lord, over a cup of coffee...when out of nowhere he asks, "So, when are you moving to Charlotte?"  My response..."what do you know?"  He knew nothing, other than that for the last year Kelly and I in conversation with him mentioned Charlotte several times, and he just felt led to ask.  I told him of turning down the position that we were offered a few weeks ago because of the lack of peace swirling around the medical and financial concerns of Jackson....and then our world was rocked. I will never forget his response - "Doug, Jackson has a life-altering medical diagnosis, but he is NOT an obstacle to what the Lord wants to do in and through you and Kelly, and your family."   So after another hour long conversation, a few days of research, and several phone calls to the "right" people/decision makers in the medical and insurance world - all the obstacles that presented themselves when first  offered the job were removed!  Every last one...His Grace is sufficient, no doubt! 

Knowing that several people had been thought of and interviewed for the position that was offered to me in the beginning of July, I shared this news with Ed just for future reference and to tell God's incredible story of Grace and Provision!  But again...God caught me off guard, for I was not ready for the next curveball..."Doug, are you open to continued conversation about the position?" 
You have to be kidding me...surely they would have filled the new position by now!  And so my response was..."I am always open to conversation to see what the Lord has in store, but Ed, Kelly and I are leaning towards setting our roots in Pennsylvania and calling this home." 

So a few days later - I was on a plane to our International Ministry Headquarters in Charlotte, and will never forget the conversation that morning held.  God showed Himself powerfully that morning as our Vice President, David, Ed and I talked and prayed over God's leading.  David spoke of Acts 1:8-10 and how the Lord had laid it on Ed and his heart that I was the man for this position...and again my response was "Who am I, Lord that you should send me?"  Come on...four years ago I was a high school math teacher, and my plans were set!  It was just all too amazing - especially in the circumstances that our family finds itself in...but God was and is clearly calling us to Charlotte - which was affirmed my phone call later that night to Kelly while I was waiting for my plane.  After sharing the day's events and conversations with her - my question was this, "Does this shock or overwhelm you?"  Her response..."not at all!  This is exactly what I have been praying for!"  "Are you kidding me...thanks for letting me in on the memo, Kel!"  The power of a praying wife!  And though our plans have been many...the Lord's purpose always prevails...and we are on our way to Charlotte (Fort Mill, SC to be exact)!

So this morning...the movers are here to pack!  They will be back tomorrow to load, and we will travel to Charlotte to close on our new house Wednesday!  And hopefully...our stuff will arrive to begin moving in on Thursday! 

Yall, I know that it has been a while - but life has been full of unexpected turns, and time has been very limited!  But that is not an excuse...and this morning when the Lord clearly laid it on my heart that it was time to write again...I wanted to bring you up to speed.  You have been so faithfully praying us through this journey...and please do NOT stop now!  This is a huge leap of faith and an unexpected turn, but we know that Love of God, the Grace of Christ, and the Fellowship of the Holy Spirit will lead us home! 

And am I sure that you are wondering about our little, big man...so here is a smile for you to start the Jackson update:

He is doing well!  We had a bit of a reality check a few weeks ago...because just by looking at him, and the way that he moves through the house, you would never know that he only has one ventricle, and half a heart.  But our cardiologist shared with us that the tricuspid valve continues to have a mild to moderate leak and at this point, his heart is not functioning or healthy enough for the critical, third open-heart surgery.  But the big reality check came when we had the conversation with his doctor about the possibility of a heart transplant down the road...BUT we will go there if necessary.  We remain hopeful that the valve will improve in function and that we will be able to complete the series of surgeries as scheduled....because God can do all things!  But we do recognize that - just as all of us - are days are numbered here on earth - and great joy awaits us who believe in our hearts that Jesus was raised from the dead, and confess with our mouth's that He is Lord!  It is a waiting game with Jackson...as one ventricle will not sustain a "normal" life, but normal is relative!  He has given us so much life in these last 11 months...and we are so excited to celebrate a year with him on November 30th!  Our God is so awesome, and in Him there is Hope for Today, Tomorrow and Eternity! 

And yes the Lord continues to provide a great medical team in this move - as Jackson's surgical team will stay at Pittsburgh's Children's Hospital under the direction of Dr. Morell, but his pediatric cardiologist will now be Dr. Greene in Charlotte - who is very excited to meet his new "Fetal Aortic Balloon, Single Ventricle" patient.  Jackson is one of kind...literally!

Prayer Warriors - please continue to pray for God's healing and strength for Jackson.  Pray that his tricuspid valve would improve in function so that we can have his third open-heart surgery here in PITTSBURGH in the fall of 2011!  Pray that Kelly and I would continue to be sensitive and lean into the Holy Spirit's prompting, and that we would walk with our Lord every step of the way! 

Carter and Jordyn are so excited (as are Mommy and Daddy) for the move...but there is a lot of change and stress upon our family right now.  So much so, that we all came down with a severe sinus cold over the weekend!  The battle is on...physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually...but the Victory is already in the Blood that was shed on Calvary's Cross!  So we fight from Victory and for His Glory! 

Love yall so much...and thank you for continuing to reinforce the prayer foundation that has been laid!  We will keep you posted...promise!

In the unexpected turns of life...always remember that the Love of God will always lead you home! 

All eyes on Jesus!



Here are a few picture highlights from the last several months...enjoy the smiles!

 

Carter kneeling along a creek at Ben and Victoria's wedding in July...

Princess Jordyn running away from another photo shoot...

Ed Isley holding Jackson for the first time...

The Joy in those eyes...August 2010

Carter's first day of kindergarten...and "yes" his mom rocks!

He was so excited...check out the double-jointed elbows - just like his daddy!

Watch out ladies...funny story - this was actually the outfit that Kelly had set out for his first day, but he wanted to wear his "My Mom Rocks" shirt so that all of his new friends would know how much he loved his mom!  As if the first day of Kindergarten with our first-born wasn't emotional enough...

Three goof-balls doing what the do best...giggle!

Awesome day of adventure in the woods at North Park...

Penny for your thoughts...

Carter teaching Jordyn how to balance on a fallen log...

Ahoy there matey...

Carter and Jordyn 0n the bumper cars at Idlewild Park's Hallow-boo!  Don't ever go on a 70 degree, Sunday in October when the Steeler's have a by-week!  It was crazy...but a ton of fun!

Fun in the pumpkin patch with the Mathieu's at Harvest Valley Farms...

Anybody else hear wedding bells????

Cyclopes and Miss Kitty...the pumpkins silly!

Princess Jordyn turned three November 7th! 

She had an awesome birthday! 

Here we go Steelers!!!!

Commit to Believe...

"The LORD is close to the brokenhearted, and rescues those whose spirits are crushed." 

[Psalm 34:18, NLT]

Of all the scriptures that Kelly and I have stood on, found strength in and committed not only to believe, but to obey through the journey of this last year...this is the promise that has given us the greatest peace and rest!  For the Lord is close - and He has rescued us...

It is hard to imagine that it was a year ago that Kelly and I woke up together this very morning (July 25) in Magee Women's Hospital following the miracle of Jackson's Fetal Aortic Balloon Valvioplasty - the fetal surgery where Dr. Emery, Dr. Speer, and Dr. Kroutzer performed a laparotomy on Kelly, placed a needle through her abdomen, through her uterus, through Jackson's chest, through his heart, down his aorta (which at the time was the thickness of a dime) and pulled an angioplasty balloon across the aortic valve - all while Dr. Speer slipped his hand under Kelly's abdomen wall and held Jackson and Kelly's uterus in perfect position - in the hopes of restoring a blood flow out Jackson's left ventricle.  I will never forget the intensity of the moments in the waiting room, as my younger brother and 7 of my closest brothers in Christ stood in the gap through the wait of a lifetime, lifting  Kelly, Jackson and I up in constant prayer.  

Now of course - it was a hilarious sight for any on looker seeing 9 guys gathered in circle in the middle of the "Labor and Delivery" waiting room in a women's hospital.  Just imagine...here is group of grown men taking up half the waiting room, engaged in moments of great conversation, intense prayer, hard cries, and the occasional loud laughter, while woman after woman, family after family anxiously passed through the waiting room with "mommy to be" in full labor, and ready to deliver!  I can only imagine the thoughts those families had as they witnessed our conversation, laughter and prayers. I will never forget that "wait" as my beautiful wife's and precious baby's life where in God's hands - through the surgical team. 

But we committed to believe through the set-backs, obstacles and struggles of that morning, and stood firm on the clarity, peace and strength of our Heavenly Father!  The team desperately did not want to perform a laparotomy- cutting Kelly's abdomen open and slipping Dr. Speer's hand under the abdomen wall to hold Jackson in place - for that would drastically increase the chances of infection and loss of the pregnancy.  And every time Jackson would come into perfect position to start the surgery...he would move at the very last moment.  For 6 hours, the team of nurses tried to get Jackson in position, walking Kelly, turning Kelly, positioning Kelly - every which way - desperately trying to position Jackson who was a mere 21 weeks old and maybe a pound.  But, then the moment of decision, it was time to proceed with the laparotomy on Kelly.  So the incision was made, Dr. Speer's hand was slipped into position to hold Jackson in uterus...and a few minutes later the surgery was over. 

The first time this surgery was attempted at Pittsburgh Children's Hospital, it ended with the loss of the pregnancy.  We knew the risks.  We knew the possibility of a fatal outcome - not only for Jackson, but for Kel.  We knew the lack of experience, the unknown, and the odds stacked against us!  But we committed to believe!  We believe that our God is far greater than any struggle or problem we face!  We believe that our Savior is our Rock and our Rescue!  We believe in the Power of the Holy Spirit...and we committed to stand firm, hold strong and follow our Awesome, Holy and Sovereign God to go where no one else had ever gone before!  And so we did...and with thousands of people praying that morning, we got our "feet wet" and man did the waters ever part! 
I will never forget the moment that Dr. Speer came out of the OR to share the news with all 9 guys in the waiting room...tears flowed, as smiles, shouts and hugs abound!  Faith flowed powerfully that morning!  And God followed through on His Promise that He is close to the brokenhearted and rescues those who are crushed in spirit!  God proved that He has, is and forever is able to miraculously heal, move mountains and do the impossible and unthinkable!  God restored a flow out the aorta that day, as Kelly and Jackson's surgery was the first successful surgery of it's kind at Magee Woman's Hospital!  We committed to believe...and God showed up!  We prayed for life...and God delivered abundantly!  We worshipped in one faith, one hope and one Lord over all, in all and through all...and our Heavenly Father glorified His Name!   

And now here we are...a year later!  Who would have ever thought...faced with the option to abort or experience death upon delivery...that our beautiful baby boy fell asleep in mommy's arms last night, started to crawl a week ago, and has now learned how to stand up in his crib!  Look out world - here he comes...

Jackson truly is a miracle of God's healing!   It is amazing to look at him, and to think off all that he has gone through...the fetal surgery, two open-heart surgeries, 3 heart caths, 1 esophageal EKG and more than 30 days in the CICU...and here is this big, 7 month bundle of hope!  I would never want to walk through the dark valley of this past year ever again - but the growth, healing, strength and blessing that God has poured out on our family has been seriously ridiculous!  It has been so hard, and there have been moments of great weakness and struggle - but no matter how hard the tears or the depth of the pain, God was always there to hold us.  It still hurts to let go of dreams - but God is a whole lot smarter than us, and His plan is far better than any dream of ours that has been shattered!  He knows the plans He has for us...we just have to "commit to believe"! 

Jackson was at the doctor's yesterday and received a great report!  He is extremely strong, and Dr. Graff was blown away that Jackson is crawling at 7 months.  Kel and I were concerned about the demands placed on Jackson's heart with his increase in activity - but the doctor shared not to be concerned at all at this point, for it is as he grows into his adolescent/teenage years that the concern really starts with the added pressures of peers to go and do things that he will "most likely" not be able to do.
Jackson weighed in at 18lbs and 5ounces!  The boy loves to eat...and the other day, Kelly had finished feeding him carrots and placed what was left in the jar on the counter.  Jackson started to fuss a little and big sister, Jordyn came to the rescue.  Jordyn just assumed since he was still sitting in his chair that he was still "humgy"...so she did what any 2 year old would do...she gave Jackson the rest of the jar!  And this is what Kelly walked into 30 seconds later:

Jordyn is our "joy maker"!  No doubt about it!  And to see the relationships that are forming between the three of them is absolutely awesome!  The care and compassion that they show to one another is truly a blessing.  We just pray it lasts a couple of years...

Carter turned six on July 14, and we celebrated with a "kid party" for the very first time - which was an absolute blast!  A lot of noise comes out of 10 kiddos under the age of six...but we had great party!  Bubba is also gearing up for Kindergarten that starts in a month, and absolutely loves his morning work-book activities with mommy, where he is learning to read, write and subtract! 

We also took our annual trip to Idlewild Park and Soak Zone - which was an another amazing day of memories!

And another highlight this month was the incredible day that Great Grandma and Grandpa Miller had the opportunity to finally meet Jackson - their 14th Great Grandchild. 

Thanks to all of you prayer warriors who continue to lift us up through your daily prayers!  Especially those who have been praying for Jordyn's sleep!  As you know, with all the trauma/stress of the move, Jackson's birth and surgeries - Jordyn has not slept through the night in her big-girl bed since November.  She has been sleeping on the floor beside our bed for 7 months now, the doctors believe it to be post-tramatic stress related - go figure!  I begin to share with you the countless prayers that have been lifted for her and her rest by Kel and I, but for some reason this past weekend she finally decided she wanted to sleep in her Cinderalla bed.  So our Princess Jordyn has slept soundly the last 3 nights in her own bed - in her own room!  Praise God!

There is nothing more powerful on this side of heaven than prayer - and we could never thank you enough for standing with us through this journey! It's been a journey hasn't it...and it has effected us each in a unique way, but our God is an Awesome God! 
Today...commit to believe!  Whatever shadow, storm or valley you face...commit to believe!  Take Him at His Word...you never know, He just may want to prove again that He can still move mountains!  After all...He is God! 

All Eyes on Jesus! 

Recklessly Abandon...

[Jesus] saw that they - his disciples - were in serious trouble, rowing hard and struggling against the wind and waves.  So He came towards them, walking on the water.  He intended to go past them, but when they saw him walking on the water, they cried out in terror thinking he was a ghost. 

They were all terrified when they saw him. 

[Mark 6: 48-50, NLT, emphasis mine]

Why weren't "they" terrified of the struggle?  Or the storm that raged?  Or the wind and the waves that were beating against them and impeding their secure arrival on land?  Interesting - isn't it.

In Matthew 14: 26 it reads...When the disciples saw Him walking on the water, they were terrified.  In their fear, they cried out, "It's a ghost!"  I have read this scripture time and time again - and like never before it spoke to me this morning.  We have all been through "storms" in life!  We have all faced the wind and waves coming against us.  And in many cases - we have relied on our own strength in "rowing" to get us through the storm and arrive in a safe place. 
We know that Peter and his brother Andrew, and James and his brother John were fishing as Jesus called them to be his disciples. And as young fishermen, I would imagine that this was not the first storm they have ever faced on the water.  They may have been anxious as they were caught in this storm, but it was not the "serious trouble" of the wind and the waves that terrified them...it was seeing their Lord in a brand new, miraculous perspective that caught them off guard and caused them to react out of their fear.  Not recognizing Jesus by sight or experience...it was the sound of His voice that shifted their focus! 

Jesus spoke to them at once.  "Don't be afraid.  Take courage.  I am here!" 

Then Peter called to him, "Lord, IF it is really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water." 

"Yes, come!"  Jesus replied. 

So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus.  BUT when he saw the strong wind and the waves he was terrified and began to sink.  "Save me, Lord!" he shouted.

Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him.  "You have so little faith," Jesus said.  "Why did you doubt me?"

[Matthew 14: 27-31, NLT, emphasis mine]

And there is the core question.  Why do we doubt Him?  Why do we not Trust Him - and Him alone!  Why must we always look at "reality" - even with a new perspective - and begin to rely on our own strength and abilities to walk against the trouble we face.  We may not recognize Him by sight, and often times He moves in ways that we have never seen, heard, experienced or imagined.  But - IF - we are going to walk by faith through the storms of life, we must learn to respond to our Savior's voice rather than react out of our fear.  Peter responded to our Lord's voice, by surrendering to Him  - recklessly abandoning -  his identity, circumstances and past success in overcoming "serious trouble" as a fisherman.  Peter risked it all, stepping out of the boat as a disciple and walked on water!  

A year ago - following 3 months of prayer, discernment and preparation with our wise counsel -  we responded by faith to our Savior's voice.  It is hard to believe, but it was exactly one year ago on June 15th that the "For Sale" sign went up in the front yard.  And I will never forget the call - 3 hours after the first showing - when our realtor let us know that the house was under contract, for more than list price!  When God moves...He moves!  

But we don't overlook or undervalue the 3 months of intense prayer that laid the foundation to get our feet wet and respond to the prompting of the Holy Spirit.  That house was a place of identity, security, and success - and yet God asked us to recklessly abandon ourselves and our circumstances - why?  Only He knows!  He intended to pass by...and asked us to walk with Him!  So we did...and it was not until 3 weeks later that we found out that Jackson had hypo-plastic left heart syndrome! 

What a year it has been...a year of incredible blessing, unbelievable growth, unfathomable miracles, and a great deepening of relationship, as His seriously ridiculous love has been poured out upon our family through intense struggle and serious trouble!  When the voice of our Savior calls us to step out, we must willingly, by faith, respond with reckless abandon - surrendering it all to Him!  People won't understand?  They will question you?  They will call you crazy and tell you how poor of choice you have made?  There are plenty of comments from the boat, but it is not between you and them?  It is between you and your Heavenly Father! 

So I ask...are you responding by faith to the sound of our Savior's voice?  Are you willing to risk it all...and step out?  Or - are we still reacting out of our fears and doubts, falling into the trap of relying on our own abilities and strategies to move towards what we believe to be "higher ground"?  God may be calling us to the impossible and the unthinkable...will we respond by faith or react out of fear!  Will we jump overboard and walk miraculously - by faith, trust, and His strength?  Or will we stay in the boat - relying on our own vision, strategy, plan and "rowing abilities"?  BUT...

when he [Peter] saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. "Save me, Lord!" he shouted. 

Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. "You have so little faith," Jesus said. "Why did you doubt me?"

[Matthew 14: 29-31, NLT, emphasis mine]

And let us never forget...that we too are not perfect!  And we too can sink!  So - when we do respond by faith to the sound of our Savior's voice, surrendering it all to Him and recklessly abandon our self and our circumstances, we must continue to walk by Faith!  We must keep our eyes fixed on the One who called us out!  He is our Rock!  He is our Rescue!  He is our Refuge!  He alone - is our Hope!  And in Him there is Strength to do the impossible!

And I can't begin to count the number of times Jesus has reached out and grabbed me - immediately - in this last year alone!  I/We have by no means walked with Him through this storm "perfectly"!  But Praise God for His Grace, Love and Mercy!  Amen?  

Don't get me wrong...His rebuke is strong.  It is clear.  And only out of Love!  He loves us so much that He set the example!  He willingly sacrificed it all on the Cross, so that we too would not drown in our sin...but rather be saved, and become more like Him!  For IF we believe in our heart and confess with our mouth that He is LORD - over all, in all and through all - we will be saved!  That is the Promise of Romans 10...Anyone who trusts in the Lord will not be put to shame!  He richly blesses all who call on Him, and everyone who calls on the Name of Jesus will be saved!  

You do not know when His voice will come to you, but whenever the realization of God comes, even in the faintest way imaginable, be determined to recklessly abandon yourself, surrendering everything to Him.  [Oswald Chambers, My Upmost for His Highest, emphasis mine]

Family Update: 

I have been longing to write for so long now...but man life is busy with 3 kids!  It is absolutely amazing how quickly days move with the energy, joy, and activity of a 5 year old, 2 year old, and a 6 month old!  It is nuts...and I am not the one who is home everyday with our 3 awesome blessings!  The transition from "man to man" defense to "zone" [now that mommy and daddy are out numbered] has been hard, yall!  Seriously!  It has been so overwhelming, especially now that I am back to a "full load" of ministry travel.  The last month has been intense, and full of activity!  Many new adventures have begun and some have come to a close! BUT God is so good...and so full of Grace! 

Jackson...
Is a goof ball!  He is absolutely hilarious!  He is so alert, so attentive, and yet can be so easily distracted!  He is definitely a "rock star" and continues to defy all odds!  He was at the Cardiologist at the end of May, and is doing so well - that he will not have another appointment until August!  The tricuspid valve is still leaking mild to moderately, but the right ventricle is strengthening - and the overall function of his heart is improving.  The left ventricle is still not functioning at all, but the surgical re-circulation seems to be doing very well!  He is still running oxygen levels in the upper 70's/low 80's [where a normal person/4-chamber functioning heart would be high 90's or 100] and the team of doctors would love to see that number improve, and hope that following the third open-heart surgery it will.  But we continue to wait and trust in God's miraculous healing!  We know that every smile, every laugh, and every moment is a true blessing and miracle...and even through the moments of frustration, exhaustion and disappointment...Jackson is a precious gift from God! 

He has begun to move...but not crawl!  He rolls all over the place.  We will put him down on the floor, and two minutes later find him having rolled clear across the room to a toy or sibling he wanted!  He loves playing with Carter and Jordyn - and to see their relationships developing as brother and sister is an absolute hoot!  Carter is the protective big brother - always showing compassion, care and concern...then you have Jordyn who just wants Jackson to get up and chase her around the house!  But can the three of them ever get to laughing...it is hilarious!  And Carter still has the gift to get Jackson "belly laughing"! 

Jackson is now weighing over 17lbs (to the shock of his doctors, nurses and parents)!   He is a big boy - especially considering his big sister only weights 25lbs!  But then again, Jordyn is a peanut!  Jackson loves to eat, and we have transitioned him to baby food in the last month.  Praise God - because he was blowing out our budget with the amount of Formula he was going through!  The boy can eat...

But overall...he is doing great!  And his crooked smile brightens even the darkest day!

{Look out world...here I come!}

Carter...

One of the greatest blessings as a daddy, is to see the ways in which God is working in and through your children!  On June 2 - Carter (aka: "Bubba") graduated from Eden Christian Academy's pre-school program.  And as we watched our little man recite scripture from memory, sing praise songs and interact with peers and teachers...it was a day full of joy, blessing and yes - tears!  We are so incredibly proud of Bubba, and he is truly growing into an awesome Child of God!  

Every year during the Graduation Ceremony, Mrs. Koster - Carter's teacher for the last two years - gives Character Awards to conclude the program.  Each award is prayed over and highlights a specific character trait that each student exemplifies.  Last year - Carter received the "gentleman's award" for the example that he set in and out of the classroom in his care, compassion and support to his female classmates and teachers.  (It was a very proud moment for mommy and daddy, especially, as this is something that we focus on in our home - and to see others recognizing it was a great encouragement to Kel and I). 

So the night before graduation, Kelly and I were praying over Carter and sharing what Character Award we believe Bubba would receive.  We thought maybe Faith, Prayer Warrior or the Leader award...because of the way that we have encouraged and seen Bubba "setting the example in faith, love, life, speech and purity."  [1 Timothy 4;12]  

Then the moment came...Carter was last to receive his award, and the tears were flowing before Mrs. Koster even spoke a word.  Wendy - Mrs. Koster - has been walking every step of the way with us through the last year, and has been such a blessing and encouragement not just to Carter, but to our entire family!  She even incorporated "All Eyes on Jesus" as a theme for her classes this year!  And when Carter received the Ambassador Award from her...I am not sure we could have ever been prepared for that moment!  For Mrs. Koster too see the example that Carter is setting for all those he comes into contact with.  His Faith, his Prayers, his Leadership, and his understanding and handling of the Word of God is truly unbelievable...and the scripture Mrs. Koster used to pray over and encourage Carter was from 2 Timothy 2:15..."Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth."   It is truly awesome what God can do through a heart and life that is surrendered to Him - and we are so excited about what God is doing in and through Carter!

{Our Little Ambassador!}

Princess Jordyn...as she now affectionately refers to herself...is sweet and spunk all wrapped up in one bundle of energy!  She is a hoot, and keeps us on our toes at all times!  You should have seen her yesterday at the park, playing, picking and teasing the boys!  Jordyn's passion for life is contagious!  She is a mover and shaker...and is a force to be reckoned with!  She knows what she wants...no doubt about that! 

Jordyn is growing leaps and bounds everyday in her communication, vocabulary and personality!  She will say things that leave Kelly and I speechless, and wondering where in the world did she get that from.  it is hard to believe she is only 2, and interestingly...the compassion, concern and protection that she demonstrates for others is awesome!  You should see the way she cares for Jackson!  It is so awesome!  And Bubba and her are inseparable right now!  They have a very strong relationship - which is such a blessing to us!  

She still struggles at night though...and prayers for her sleep and rest would be very much appreciated.  She has a very high need of security and still is not sleeping in her own room, by herself.  This last year has left its mark on her, and though kids are very resilient - the are forever changed in the wake of a storm.  I don't think we always are willing to realize the impact our choices and circumstances have on our children.  Kelly and I are learning to become more aware of our influence and impact on our kids every day.  We too must set the example in our faith, life, love, speech and purity!

{Princess Jordyn}

And speaking of Kelly and Doug, we are doing well - at least we think so!  Every day has its struggles, but I can't begin to share the power and blessing that lies in a marriage focused in prayer!  Kelly and I continue to wrap each other in prayer daily...and God continues to move powerfully through the prayers we offer on behalf of each other!  We are stronger today than ever before...and more united with Christ in our individual relationship and marriage than what we were heading into this past year!  Struggle is real...and surrender is the answer!  We can never compromise Truth, and we must always be willing to surrender to Him!  Kel and I have found the transformational promise of Psalm 37:4, that as we draw close to Him, He will give us the desires of our heart!  You want to talk about impact...your marriage and relationships will be transformed as you draw close to Him, and you start living the desires He gives you!  Its awesome...promise!

Well...that was one long/over-due update!  Thank you again for the grace, strength, love and support you have demonstrated through your prayers, encouragement and gifts!  There is no way we could ever describe in words the appreciation and love that we have for you!  Thank you for continuing to reinforce the foundation of prayer...and for recklessly abandoning the pleasures of this world to follow the Voice of our Savior! 

All eyes on Jesus! 

Unbalanced...

As they were walking along, someone said to Jesus, “I will follow you wherever you go.”
But Jesus replied, “Foxes have dens to live in, and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place even to lay his head.”

He said to another person, “Come, follow me.” The man agreed, but he said, “Lord, first let me return home and bury my father.”
But Jesus told him, “Let the spiritually dead bury their own dead! Your duty is to go and preach about the Kingdom of God.”

Another said, “Yes, Lord, I will follow you, but first let me say good-bye to my family.”
But Jesus told him, “Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.”  [Luke 9:57-62]

Are we truly willing to follow Him? Willing to risk it all? Walking away from everything that has provided security...closure...identity? Or are we desiring, searching, and seeking for "balance" in our life? The life of a Christ follower is not balanced! It is sold out, surrendered, wholly devoted to not just knowing - but growing in Christ! He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. And the battle lines are drawn...aren't they?

We want to be relevant. We want to be accepted. We want to be the best, the greatest, perfect, and the example for all others to look up and strive to become. But let us not forget the words or example of devotion in the unbalanced life of John - not the disciple - but John the baptist. In John's response to his disciples inquiring and complaining about people going to Christ to be baptized rather than him, we find clarity to what is meant by the unbalanced, devoted life of a follower of Christ. [Don't miss this opportunity to lock eyes with our Savior and Lord...]

“No one can receive anything unless God gives it from heaven. You yourselves know how plainly I told you, ‘I am not the Messiah. I am only here to prepare the way for him.’ It is the bridegroom who marries the bride, and the best man is simply glad to stand with him and hear his vows. Therefore, I am filled with joy at his success. He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less.

“He has come from above and is greater than anyone else. We are of the earth, and we speak of earthly things, but he has come from heaven and is greater than anyone else. He testifies about what he has seen and heard, but how few believe what he tells them! Anyone who accepts his testimony can affirm that God is true. For he is sent by God. He speaks God’s words, for God gives him the Spirit without limit. The Father loves his Son and has put everything into his hands. And anyone who believes in God’s Son has eternal life. Anyone who doesn’t obey the Son will never experience eternal life but remains under God’s angry judgment.” [John 3:27-36]

I will not lie to you...we have asked time and again, "why me? why us? why Jackson?"...and His response is simple and clear..."I love you! I am with you!  I will never leave or forsake you!  I gave my life, so that you could have life! In this world you will have trouble, but take heart! I have overcome the world!  Greater things are yet to come!"

Are we willing to lie down our lives, in devotion to embrace the life He is! Are we filled with joy at His success, or is our joy in our status, value, wealth, and accumulation of earthly things. "Balance" is an earthly perspective...but devotion - sold out, surrender to Christ and Christ alone - reflects and glorifies the very image of our Heavenly Father! Does our attitude and actions align with a passion of devotion to an audience of one? "He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less."

I can't begin to express my desire to write over the last three weeks, but walking in and through the wake of this storm continues to be a struggle! Praise God that Life is NOT short! The squeeze of life is real - for there are far to many things to squeeze into our time here on earth! But we press on because this is not our home...and Praise Jesus for the Promise of Eternal Life! I will say it again...don't buy into the lie that "life is short"! Its not...life is eternal! We will either live eternally separated from God in hell or we will live eternally in perfect relationship with our Heavenly Father. Those are the options yall! And the ONLY way to the Father is through the Cross - the Life, Death and Resurrection of Christ Jesus! By Faith in Christ - and Christ alone - we are saved by Grace! [Ephesians 2]  And we can walk confidently in the assurance of our Salvation in and through Christ!  Amen?

Transitioning back into the activities of "life" as we know it - has been a challenge. One of the greatest blessings through out the last 5 months is the leadership, encouragement, and support of the BGEA - the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. The grace and love that the leadership has expressed and demonstrated not only to me and my work, but to our family has been absolutely incredible! And my/our transition back into a "full load" of ministry has been awesome!
I was in Charlotte, NC last week for ministry meetings - and in a very weird way...there was a great peace as I pulled out the driveway last Sunday morning. Don't get me wrong...I cried for the first 10 minutes of my trip, but there was an awesome sense of the "old normal" as we knew before Jackson was born.  So daddy went "bye-bye" for a couple of days for the first time in 6 months - with absolute conviction that it was "go time"!   We have been "waiting" and in a "holding" pattern for a year now - at Christ's leading...and now the tide is changing! And we are excited to see the ways in which our Lord leads...

On Thursday, April 29th...we had an incredible opportunity! I know many of you were praying (and waiting for an update) for us, as Kelly spoke at an event hosted by the 25 Club in honor of Dr. Steven Emery's work with the Fetal Diagnostic and Treatment Center (FDTC) at Magee Women's Hospital. Dr. Emery (center) is the surgeon that performed Jackson's Fetal Aortic Balloon surgery back on July 24, 2009.

There was quite an excitement in the air throughout the night as we were greeted and hosted by the 25 Club's members and guests. It was truly an evening that we will never forget! And yes, Kelly brought the house down! Her strength and poise was amazing - and of Christ alone! If you remember when Gov. Sarah Palin was on the campaign trail...you would always catch a glimpse of her husband, Todd, standing in the background holding the baby...well let me tell you - Todd and I need to start a men's small group! It was awesome and absolutely incredible to stand back and watch in awe as my beautiful wife shared our story to 150 guests! There was not a dry eye in the room...and the support and encouragement we received that evening from strangers was overwhelming! And we pray that it is just the beginning...for this is truly a story of God's Healing and Hope!
Some of the greatest moments of the evening was when God "teed-up" the opportunity to share our faith, strength and peace in the Lord Jesus with men and women of great influence! This event was "over the top"! The ultra-contemporary, multi-story home where the event was held was gorgeous!  Complete with valet parking, a dance floor, dj booth, wine cellar, at least 6 bedrooms, and a 50 foot glass wall off the entertaining area that led to the most incredible patio/outdoor area I have ever witnessed.  The two-tier pool overlooked the entire city of Pittsburgh!  And all we could think about was..."how in the world did we get here?"
But - the comment that I will remember for a lifetime was..."Can you imagine what you could do if you had a house like this?" And my response through the prompting/leading of the Holy Spirit was, "Could you imagine what you could do if you didn't have a house like this!" Imagine the impact - if instead of having a million dollar home for "entertaining our earthly, selfish desires" if we lived in modesty and gave the rest away to resource the Lord's work! Want to talk about changing families, communities and nations...

"Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be." [Matthew 6:19-20]


The truth is...our treasure follows our devotion, our heart, and our focus!  Where are we storing up treasures?  The enemy wants us to resource his lie of keeping up with the Jones...but our Heavenly Father desperately wants us to resource His Promise of Life!  It was a night we will never forget...and truly a great blessing to share the story of God's miraculous work through Jackson's team of doctors! Thank you for your prayers...it was a powerful night!

Family Update:
Jackson is Jackson! He is doing so well...he truly is a miracle! His strength is unbelievable...and he continues to defy all odds! On Thursday, April 29th he had his monthly echo/EKG appointment with his cardiologist at Magee Women's Hospital. The echo shows that the "function" of the right ventricle seems to be improving.  his EKG was normal, but the tricuspid valve continues to have a mild to moderate leak.  The leak is holding consistent as to what it has been following the Norwood surgery at 8 days old, and our team of doctors will continue to monitor the functions monthly.  If things remain stable, they will wait to address the tricuspid valve surgically at the time of his third open-heart surgery (The Fontan) in about 18 months. So - we wait - and trust in the Lord's perfect timing and healing! He may not always cure the way we want or desire...but He always heals!
Jackson is now 15.5lbs - which is unbelievable and a miracle in its own right - and has begun to eat his 1st foods! The little, big man loves his sweet potatoes, squash and bananas! And his crooked smile - continues to capture our hearts anew every day! And in every cry, smile, laugh...we realize that it is a moment and gift given from Heaven above - for he should not be here, and in an instant can be home with the Lord. Hence the power in the promise that Life is not short!
This past Saturday, May 8, Jackson was dedicated to the Lord at church. And in the moments before we walked on stage - Kelly and I shared a smile and a tear as we reflected back on all that God has done in and through Jackson's life over the last 5 months. Our God is the Everlasting God, and His Grace is enough! [here is the video of the blessing that Kelly and I prayed over our little warrior that evening.]

Carter...is amazing! And has been such a huge help over the last weeks as we have transitioned back to a full ministry schedule and travel. Last Sunday morning, Mother's Day, Kelly and I were sitting at the kitchen table enjoying our "coffee and hot chocolate" talk and devotions, when Carter snuck into the kitchen and whispered, "daddy, daddy..." he then came over to my ear, covered his mouth and said - as if I forgot - "today is Muvers day!" It was hilarious...he and Jordyn then went down to their playroom and made two beautiful cards all on their own for mommy - and we enjoyed an awesome family day together!

One more quick story that truly gripped our hearts...the other night at bed time, Kel asked Carter to go grab a story book to read in bed, as she would be up in a few minutes to read to him. When she walked in...there was Carter sitting in bed reading the bible!
His intellect and personality continue to amaze us! He is growing so fast right now - physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually! Including attitude! The other day he said to Kel, "Mom - when will I be big enough to have my own life? Because when I am a daddy, I am going to make funner rules." He keeps us on our toes, that's for sure.


Then there is Jordyn...our ball of life! Her passion and energy to live EVERY moment to the fullest is incredible! She is still struggling at night - and for whatever reason is still not sleeping well. She has become quite the UNO player...as it is tough for Kelly and I to beat her! Kelly started teaching her to play about two weeks ago, and now she plays completely on her own - no help needed - and beat me 5 games in a row yesterday! And of course...there is a winning dance full of spunk and personality, as she says "I in! Again, Again! I like OOOT-NO"
She truly is the princess of this home, and her love and adoration for her "bruvers" is awesome! Every morning, she is the first to the crib as Jackson wakes, and she loves to love on her baby Jack Jack!
Last night, Jordyn was not falling asleep and we asked what was wrong...and she said "I miss my Bubba." Carter - has been spending a guys weekend with Grandpa at the farm and Jordyn would not go to sleep, until she "night, night" to Bubba over the phone. She is so cute...too cute!

Our home is full of energy and life these days - that's for sure...and the Rock of this house is doing well! She continues to "press on" in the midst of trial and struggle, and holds firm to the faith she has in our Lord Jesus! Kel is an amazing mommy, wife and friend! The sanctuary, structure and peace that she creates in our home...is truly one of the greatest gifts ever given! There is no doubt - this character "married up!"

Thank you - for your continued prayers, encouragement and support! I know it has been too long since our last update..."but do not worry!" [Matthew 16] Life is hectic, and this storm continues to have phases and elements that we don't anticipate. This last month flew by...as activity in a home with 3 children - truly leaves us gasping for air sometimes! BUT - God is good, and the Holy Spirit continues to teach, reveal, grow and stretch us in ways unimaginable! We are stronger, more united and deeper in love today than ever before...and we Praise Jesus for His Grace, Strength and Love in our home, and marriage! There is no way we would still be standing - walking - in this storm if it were not for His Everlasting Love and Devotion to us!

We are truly blessed...and He is our Victory! Pressing on - with all eyes on Jesus!

{Mr. Smiley!}

{Waiting for the Doctor...again!}

{Wasn't me!}

{"Bruverly" love - as Jordyn would say!}

{Carter scored his first goal last week, and his second this week!}

{Gotta love father - son coaching conversations!}

{Princess Jordyn - or as she refers to herself, "Cinderelli"}

Pause...Shift Perspective!

Walk with me for just a moment through the valley of sorrow to the Rivers of Joy.  By Faith...

I cry out to God; yes, I shout.

Oh, that God would listen to me!

When I was in deep trouble,

I searched for the Lord.

All night long I prayed, with hands lifted toward heaven,

but my soul was not comforted.

I think of God, and I moan,

overwhelmed with longing for his help.

{Interlude/Selah/Pause...Shift Perspective!}

You don’t let me sleep.

I am too distressed even to pray!

I think of the good old days,

long since ended,

when my nights were filled with joyful songs.

I search my soul and ponder the difference now.

Has the Lord rejected me forever?

Will He never again be kind to me?

Is his unfailing love gone forever?

Have his promises permanently failed?

Has God forgotten to be gracious?

Has he slammed the door on his compassion?

{Interlude/Selah/Pause...Shift Perspective!}

And I said, “This is my fate;

the Most High has turned his hand against me.”

But then I recall all you have done, O Lord;

I remember your wonderful deeds [of now] and of long ago,

They are constantly in my thoughts.

I cannot stop thinking about your mighty works.

O God, your ways are holy.

Is there any god as mighty as you?

You are the God of great wonders!

You demonstrate your awesome power among the nations.

By your strong arm, you redeemed your people...

{Interlude/Selah/Pause...Shift Perspective!}

When the Red Sea saw you, O God,

its waters looked and trembled!

The sea quaked to its very depths.

The clouds poured down rain;

the thunder rumbled in the sky.

Your arrows of lightning flashed.

Your thunder roared from the whirlwind;

the lightning lit up the world!

The earth trembled and shook.

Your road led through the sea,

your pathway through the mighty waters—

a pathway no one knew was there!

You led your people along that road like a flock of sheep,

with Moses and Aaron as their shepherds.

[Psalm 77, NLT] 

Did you catch it?  Did you catch the shift?  The change in perspective from that of circumstance, struggle, and despair to confidence, trust, and hope? "BUT THEN"...

I remember what you have done! 

I remember your wonderful deeds, mighty works, and great wonders! 

Your ways are Holy! 

And I fix my thoughts and perspective on Redemption! 

For His pathway was a pathway that no one knew was even there!  Who is that Pathway?  Christ Jesus alone!  He is the Way, the Truth and Life!  And in His Gentle Whisper on the Cross..."it is done"...Redemption was, is and forever will be complete!  Redemption is here!  Redemption is reality; if we believe in our hearts that Jesus is Lord, and confess with our mouths that God raised Him from the dead...we will be saved!  [Romans 10:9]

And it is on this Promise...that we continue to fix our eyes on Jesus and walk by faith through this valley of sorrow to Rivers of Joy!  Yes - we continue to cry out!  Yes - we continue to pray with hands lifted high!  And we are overwhelmed with a longing for His help, rescue, refuge, grace, mercy and love!  However - there is Great Joy, Strength and Peace when we shift our perspective from that of circumstance to confidence!  He is Holy...and there is no other god like our God!   

The last two weeks have been incredible!  Absolutely amazing!  Full of healing, growth, insight, wisdom and peace through the struggle!  Yes, we continue to struggle!  We are human...and no where near perfect!  The struggle is real, the adversity intense and the change...it is overwhelming at times!  BUT THEN...He is Who He says He is, and can do what He says He can do!   

The hardest embrace over the last two weeks...has been the realization of the fact that there is no "closure" in this journey!  Yes, our long-suffering and grieving of lifestyle, dreams, and health for Jackson continues - and only God knows when it will end...but we focus our eyes on the Cross, and embrace His promise of full and abundant life!  Let's be honest...when Christ said "it is finished" He did not mean that our lives would be smooth sailing! The Christian Life is NOT a cruise liner docked in the harbor...it is a fishing boat in a stormy sea!  The battle, warfare and struggle are real because the last thing the enemy wants is for us to be in the game!  He will defend us...but only through deception or false evidence appearing real!  That would be f.e.a.r. yall!  Don't forget - it was Christ that taught us in John 16:33 - that in this world we will have trouble...but take heart, and place our hope, trust and faith in His Promise that He has overcome this world!  For in this very promise...there is peace, hope and the power to walk by faith through the Valley of sorrow, uncertainty and struggle to Rivers of Joy! 

Update:  The miracle of rolling over the first time - never loses its joy!  And this week, as Jackson rolled over from his stomach to his back for the very first time, we were/are so excited!  On the outside...you would never know that our little warrior has half a heart, had 2 open-heart surgeries, 2 Cardiac Caths and been under general anesthesia 5 times in 4months!  He is absolutely beautiful - and huge!  The little man just moved up to size 3 diapers, and is weighing more than 15lbs! 

On the inside...we don't know how Jackson is doing.  We don't know what is happening with the leak in the tricuspid valve?  Or how his heart is adjusting to the new dosage of lasik. We don't know what the prognosis is or will be...all we get to do is "Be still and know that He is God!" [Psalm 46:10]

And so we wait...again...in uncertainty...wrapped in peace!  Jackson's monthly echo/EKG is scheduled for April 29th, where we will continue to monitor the leak and prepare for his third open-heart surgery in about a year and a half.  And then after that surgery...we will again wait in uncertainty as to how his right ventricle will hold up!  But waiting in uncertainty...is not being paralyzed by the unknown!  Waiting...is being prepared, ready, mobile, and agile to step in to the moments and places God calls us!  Waiting is not sitting around twiddling our thumbs...there are relationships to engage, hearts to encourage, and communities to equip...but all in His timing! 

Jackson is an amazing testament to God's faithfulness, majesty, healing, love and mercy - and truly he is doing great!  He continues to struggle - and share his emotions vocally and tearfully - with the adjustment in his schedule, and sleeping habits.  He is still very fussy at times and learning that he loves to cry, but the belly laugh that he is developing is awesome!  I wish I could capture a sound bite of Jackson laughing at Carter!  It is the coolest thing...and brings the whole house in to laughter instantly!  The relationship and brotherhood between Carter and Jackson is truly awesome!  But then again, why should any of us be amazed...Carter has been covering his baby brother in prayer for years!  The other night - Kelly, Carter and Jackson were snuggled up watching TV...and Carter leaned over and got right in Jackson's face, nose to nose.  He then turned to Kelly and said, "Mommy, I like how Jesus decided to make Jackson's face!"  How awesome is that y'all! 

{Beautiful, Beautiful, Beautiful...Beautiful boys!}

And then there is our little "princess" running around with her hand on her hip and attitude, passionately pouring out of her!  Oh, don't get me wrong...Jordyn is a blast!  But exhausting!  Our little princess is wired 220 - and has energy to burn!  She is growing up so quick - and is becoming quite the big helper!  We actually started potty training her this week, and she has only had one accident in two days!  She is sleeping a little better, and has transitioned off of our bedroom floor, and into her bed - Praise God!  She is still waking up in the middle of the night scared (not sure if it is night terrors, bad dreams or just a high need of security), but it is all good...and hopefully this too will pass very soon! 

{The bike helmet was a huge hit Easter morning...but do you think she would take it off to eat?}

Kel...is incredible!  She is doing well, and continues to work through the adversity and struggle! She has been very focused at establishing a foundation, consistency, and routine in the "new normal" of our family. "Boot Camp" continues - as we train, prepare and equip ourselves in the wake of this past year's journey.  It has taken quite a toll on us in all aspects of life!  It has been a challenge...but she continues to amaze me in her faith, love, care, compassion and commitment to press on!  She is a warrior...and yes, that is where Jackson gets it from! 

God truly has blessed this broken road...the waiting has been intense...the preparation incredible...and the healing - beyond words, and not just in Jackson's life! 

When our circumstances overwhelm us...pause...and shift perspective on the confident assurance we have in the One who overcomes!   And as we continue to fix our eyes on Jesus...let us fix our thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable.  Overcome the overwhelming by thinking about things that are excellent and worthy of praise!  [Philippians 4:8]

Thank you for the continued prayers, encouragement and love!  Greater things are yet to come, Greater things are still to be done! 

All Eyes on Jesus!

Here are some picture highlights of the last two weeks: 

{Somebody say NFL Draft?  Pick me!}

{The big, little man loves being outside!}

{"Check this out dad!"}

{I told you he is learning that he loves to cry!}

{Studly!}

{Now - this is trouble!}

And just in case you missed our story being shared last Saturday morning on WORD FM during the "Let's Talk with Stacy and Hutch" show...here is a link were you can listen in.  My conversation/interview with Stacy and Hutch starts about 45min into the second segment (Part B) and then the first half hour of the third segment (Part C).  Thank you for all of you who prayed over and through this conversation!  I had never done radio before...and I had a blast! 

Check it out:  www.northway.org/secondary/care/stacyandhutch/stacyandhutch.aspx