March for Macy

On Sunday, April 25th, Mandi, Brett, and TONS of friends and family members walked in the March for Babies walk benefiting the March of Dimes. It was a wonderful way to honor Macy Grace, and all babies that are born too early or with other complications. I walked with my mom and Jason, and it was such an uplifting experience. First of all, the outpouring of support and financial donations was unbelievable! I raised $360, and Team Macy Grace raised $2,907!!! Even more amazing is that we are in a recession, and yet people still find the means to be generous and help others.

I am amazed at how God is able to take some very tough and sad situations and bring joy and peace from them. I remember sitting in the waiting room at the hospital and praying so hard for Macy...I wanted her to hold on just a little longer so we could all love on her as much as possible before He took her to be with Him. I also remember praying for Mandi and Brett, for peace in their hearts, a solid relationship to get them through this rough spot, and for the opportunity to have a healthy baby here on earth. I am happy to report that all of my prayers came true. While Macy only lived 16 short hours, she was loved on as much as any baby could hope to be (and then some!) during that time!!! Mandi and Brett are truly at peace with God's plan for Macy. I admire them and sometimes wonder where they have found such enormous strength and peace. I am thankful that they're doing so well. I believe that their relationship has grown stronger since they were blessed with Macy. Jason and I have spent a lot of time with them as a couple, and we look to them as a model for what we want our relationship to be. We are so blessed to have them as friends, and have found them to be people that truly "grace" our lives in countless ways. I ask that you please continue to keep Mandi and Brett in your prayers. Please ask God to bless them with a healthy pregnancy and child. As Mandi always said during her pregnancy with Macy, "It doesn't matter if the baby is a boy or a girl...all that matters is that it is healthy!" How very true, and just another reason why they will make the most AWESOME parents! Macy is a lucky little girl to have them, and baby number two will be just as lucky when the day comes! :)

I am blessed to believe in a God that has plans more wonderful than my own. I am blessed that He gives us struggles in order to encourage us to grow. I am blessed that He brings rainbows after stormy weather. I am blessed that He gives us angels on Earth in the form of friends and family members. I am blessed...and for that, I am thankful. :)