grateful

This past weekend has made me realize how grateful I am for my family, especially my dad. Sometimes it takes a lot of waiting and thinking to make me stop and look at the many blessings in my life that I am often too busy to see.  

And so here we are in Denver at the hospital waiting and waiting...

...and waiting.  There were about 25 of us in the waiting room as my dad and uncle went in for surgery.  My dad donated his kidney to his brother who has kidney disease and was very close to having to go on dialysis.  

Of course Cora wanted to be there for Gramp's surgery too.  She had lots of attention.  

And she even slept a little too.

My mom and Aunt Lori were anxiously awaiting news from the doctors.  I think it is so sweet how they both have their husband's wedding rings around their necks.

Finally we got the good news and eventually got to visit the recovering patients.  My Uncle David felt better almost immediately after receiving the kidney.  Isn't that amazing??

My dad on the other hand wasn't feeling so hot.  It was great to see him and give him a big hug.

I love this picture.  This was taken on the second day after the surgery.  My dad was feeling pretty horrible, but he mustered up enough energy to give this big cheesy grin.  What a tough daddy!

When I talked to my mom this afternoon both my uncle and dad were getting ready to go "home".  Home will be in Denver for a little while.  My dad will come home to Kansas sometime next week while my uncle will stay in Denver for about three months.  Thanks for all of you who prayed.  We are so grateful!