One Packed-Full Post!

What a busy time of year! Just to prove it, I have lots of pictures and stories to share about all that has kept me busy enough to neglect our blog. You'll have to scroll down, I have a story that has to be shared first.

Among all the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season, it is so easy to get caught up and not focus on the true meaning of Christmas. Jesus, the greatest gift of all. How thankful I am for Jesus! I am so thankful for the hope that I have because of him!

This past Sunday was the first time I have been to church since July. Keeping Audrey at home until she has gotten stronger and received a few Synagis shots has been the priority. Since we have a few of those shots out of the way, I felt it was time to take her to church. I love our church and I especially love being at church during Christmas! If I had any reservations at all whether or not I should've taken Audrey out in the blustery cold weather they were answered within five minutes of stepping into the church building. We were greeted and Audrey was immediately the center of attention (such a proud mommy moment). When a lady commented on how small she was I explained that she only weighed 2 lbs. 14 1/2 oz when she was born. Since she is now over 12 lbs she seems rather big to me. As I hung up my coat an older lady approached me and asked if she heard correctly what Audrey weighed. She explained that she was born during the Great Depression and weighed the same as Audrey. She then furthered her story by explaining that she had an identical twin sister that weighed a little over one pound that did not survive due to heart complications. What are the chances? Thank you, God, for this reminder that this is exactly where I'm supposed to be. I smiled and shared that Audrey had an identical twin sister, too. I really wanted to give her the biggest hug! We spoke for a few more minutes, there were so many questions I had for her. She did answer one without my asking. It was heartwrenching to hear her say, to this day when she sees twins she wonders what her life would've been like with her sister here. Confirmation that it is normal to wonder everyday what life would be like with both, Audrey and Olivia here.

There was more for me during the service. You know those services, the ones that make you feel like it's just you and the preacher having a one-sided, heart-to-heart. One-sided because you don't need to speak, he knows exactly whats on your heart and what you need to hear. I just have to share a little bit from the service. The title: When a Baby Reigns as King-Discover the Life You've Always Wanted (Isaiah 9:6-7). Our notes from the sermon warm my heart as I read them again now. "A baby always attracts attention - any time, anywhere...all babies deserve love and attention, but no baby deserves more attention than the One born in a barn over 2,000 years ago. Discover four reasons why this baby provides the life God designed us to experience." This sermon is exactly what I needed, the four reasons are as follows:

1. When I am confused, He offers his plan. Jesus is our "Wonderful Counselor" and He makes the plans. "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails." Proverbs 19:21
2. When I am weak, He offers his power. Jesus is our "Mighty God" and He makes the plans work.
3. When I am alone, He offers His presence. Jesus is our "Everlasting Father" forever.
4. When I am disturbed, He offers His peace. Jesus is the "Prince of Peace." "I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take Heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33

Wow, talk about knowing exactly what someone needs! I was right where I was intended to be on Sunday morning. As we head into Christmas it is important to remember Isaiah 9:6-7. "For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end." I am so thankful for the Hope and Peace we have been given!

Troyer Tales to Share:

We kicked off this month by attending The Nutcracker in Wooster. Mom got tickets for the three of us to go knowing that Dawson is a big fan of Tchaikovsky. Funny story, we were waiting for the ballet to start and Dawson asked if Tchaikovsky was there (he, he, he). I told him he had been there, given the music and had been gone for a long time. Best explanation I could give him before the show started. I was quite impressed with the fact that Dawson lasted through the entire show and didn't get ancy until the last fifteen minutes.

Mommy, Dawson & Nina ready for The Nutcracker

Dawson enjoying his gift from Nina, how fitting!

Ok, so it's really late and I gotta catch some zzzz's before Audrey wakes up for her first late night, early morning feeding! More to come...

Merry Christmas!

Love,

Jenn