The Macs

Thursday, October 15, 2009

sono #2

Baby Mac is 28 weeks.
That meant it was time for our second sono.
On Monday we headed to Wichita for another trip to the specialist.

We were so nervous.
That drive to Wichita, almost in total silence, seemed all too familiar.
The same trip we took to the hospital over eight months ago.
Except this time Cora wasn't in the back seat.
It is times like these where Cora's absence seems to be screaming at me.
The memories, fears, and pain come rushing back.

Although the waiting and anticipation of that appointment was scary and uncomfortable, I think sometimes I need those times of quiet.
Time to just think and pray.
Time to remember that God has brought us this far
and He is not going to abandon us now.
Time to rely on Him and His strength to get me through another hard thing.
Time to remember that I need to continue to trust.

We walked back into the specialist's office,
having to face Cora's hospital again right across the street.
I tried not to even look.
It is amazing how just being there--not even in the hospital--causes so many pictures, memories, and emotions to start flashing through my mind.
I hate that!

We had the sonogram first.
Baby Mac was moving around again like crazy.
I think we have a wiggly one {and maybe ornery one like daddy} on the way.
The technician talked to us through the whole thing,
and from our perspective it seemed like everything was looking good.

They were going to specifically look at the baby's adrenal glands at this appointment.
That is where Cora's tumor started.
When the doctor walked into the room she flashed a big smile and said,
"Aren't those the most beautiful adrenal glands you have ever seen?"
I think I was still too nervous to respond much,
but it was so wonderful to hear her excitement.
She reassured us that everything was looking great.
Baby Mac looked perfect, adrenal glands and all.
She even gave us a hug when we left.
We are so blessed to have such kind people taking care of us.

And so we are past one more hurdle.
It is hard to believe in a little over 10 weeks
we will be meeting this new little one.

And we even got away with another picture.
Want to see?

67 Comments:

Blogger Unknown said...

I am so happy to hear that everything looks good! You guys are in my prayers always! Can't wait to find out if you are having a boy or a girl.

October 16, 2009 at 10:54 PM  
Anonymous Ashley Ann said...

That's one beautiful sono picture!

October 16, 2009 at 11:08 PM  
Anonymous Maureen said...

So happy for you guys... you hold a special place in my heart and I think of you often :-) Excited to meet your little one!

Blogging in WA,
Maureen

October 16, 2009 at 11:20 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Oh, love the photo! What a little beauty, he or she!

October 16, 2009 at 11:37 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Prayers--and happiness for you and your families!

October 16, 2009 at 11:38 PM  
Blogger Misty Rice said...

All choked up....holding back the tears.

Go GOD!!!

October 16, 2009 at 11:55 PM  
Blogger Erica said...

precious baby mac! what a blessing!!

October 17, 2009 at 12:03 AM  
Anonymous Diana said...

Praise the Lord for such awesome blessings! You are surrounded by soooooo much love from so many folks! Keeping you in our prayers!

Joyfully in Christ,
Diana :)

October 17, 2009 at 12:21 AM  
Blogger Beki - TheRustedChain said...

God bless you Jess.

There is Hope in Him!!

October 17, 2009 at 12:21 AM  
Anonymous Christina said...

A little over 10 weeks!! When you say it like that, it seems so close, doesn't it? That's a good thing, I think, and I'm so happy that things look so good. Praise God for your healthy baby! Praise Him for your life together, all of your family, and your trust in Him.

October 17, 2009 at 12:48 AM  
Blogger Suzi K said...

I am so happy and ready to bawl my eyes out at the same time! I just love your sweet spirit Faith in the Lord.

October 17, 2009 at 1:16 AM  
Blogger Jess@craftiness is not optional said...

so happy that everything is going well for you! you deserve it. :)

October 17, 2009 at 1:24 AM  
Blogger Heather | Cookie Mondays said...

he or she is too cute already! getting so excited for you, jess :)
xx

October 17, 2009 at 1:28 AM  
Blogger Amber Filkins said...

Oh dear Jess. My heart just aches for you. And I know a lot of those feelings all to well that you mentioned in your post. I just got done writing a post about losing our {2nd} baby in a year, and my D&C today.

I had so many quiet, silent moments. Moving through all of the motions and emotions, silently.

But through all of the silence, and unpleasantness, there was NO denying God's presence, His promises, His hand holding us up under the unbearable pain.

What a beautiful, healthy little baby you have on the way!

Hugs & prayers, my dear.

October 17, 2009 at 2:04 AM  
Blogger forever folding laundry said...

Beautiful. Just like big sister Cora.
So glad all is well. Enjoy these next 12 weeks!

~Keri

October 17, 2009 at 2:36 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Continuing to pray for your family! Baby Mac looks gorgeous and healthy and strong! I cant wait to meet him/her!

October 17, 2009 at 7:24 AM  
Blogger Unknown said...

I continue to pray for you, Joel, and your precious unborn baby. He or she looks so beautiful. Jesus loves you all so very much.

October 17, 2009 at 7:33 AM  
Blogger Natasha said...

Absolutely beautiful!
I've been reading your blog for a few months now and it makes me cry every time, my family's heart goes out to you and you are in my prayers. I can't wait to see you holding this little one!

October 17, 2009 at 7:38 AM  
Blogger Marla Taviano said...

Can you even fathom how much rejoicing there will be across the country (the world!) when Baby Mac is in your arms for the first time??

Yet I know you'll miss Cora SO much at that moment.

Praying for overflowing peace and joy to fill your hearts!!

October 17, 2009 at 7:59 AM  
Blogger Polka Dot Moon said...

Can't wait to see Baby Mac in your arms! You're always in my thoughts and prayers!!
Denise

October 17, 2009 at 8:26 AM  
Blogger Lori said...

Congratulations!! Thanks for sharing this journey with all of us. :)

October 17, 2009 at 8:48 AM  
Blogger Amy said...

Can't wait to meet him or her! :)

October 17, 2009 at 9:00 AM  
Blogger Anna said...

So happy for the good news...what a wonderful, wonderful picture!!

October 17, 2009 at 9:40 AM  
Blogger Shannon said...

What a beautiful baby! And I'm so glad to hear that those adrenal glands are perfect, too!

Good luck with everything, and we will continue to pray for the three of you!

October 17, 2009 at 9:59 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Wonderful news! I am praying for you.

October 17, 2009 at 10:06 AM  
Blogger Julie said...

Oh, Jess! What great news. Thank you for sharing. I prayed so hard for you on Monday and am glad you got such beautiful news. Can't wait to meet Baby Mac. Love you!

October 17, 2009 at 10:17 AM  
Blogger Melissa said...

I'm so happy for you guys. I haven't commented, but wanted to today. I know what u mean about just driving down the same roads or even looking at or going to the hospital. When my grandmother died it was very sudden from an allergic reaction that caused all her skin to come off. It was devastating to us. After that long week in the hospital I felt like I could not breathe if I smelled the hospital soap somewhere or had to actually go in a hospital. We work w college students at our church and one night we were scheduled to take coloring books, etc to the children's hospital. I knew I had to go. I was trying to hold it together bc the students were so nervous and excited. The nurses asked if we would go see a sweet girl who had a head injury from falling at a church camp. She could no longer talk or walk, but was having to learn all over again. I was so scared to open her door. We all went in and met her family. The students were hanging back...it was different to try and talk to the girl, so most talked to her parents. The second I walked in her eyes locked on mine...I could feel her hurt and how scared she was. She reached out for my hand and I took it. Because I had been so close to my grandmother and had to witness such horrible pain and still hold her hand and talk to her,I felt comfortable. God's peace just washed over me. I talked to this little girl and held her hand forever. When we had to go she cried. I was crying, too. I had gone from scared to death to being able to love and minister in a new way. Because you've been there it changes you. Just wanted to share because I know god has and will continue to use you for his glory. Even when you feel like it might not ever be a possibility. Praying for you!

October 17, 2009 at 11:23 AM  
Blogger Keilani said...

I am so glad to hear everthing is ok! The pain you feel breaks my heart, but the comfort you receive from God also comforts me. I cannot tell you how much your family has taught me about love, kindness, and the power of God. Thank you.

October 17, 2009 at 1:23 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Congratulations on the new baby, he/she is looking great!
I don't know you, but I just wanted to say how proud I am of you and tell you that you are such an inspiration to me and are truly a testament to God's love :)

October 17, 2009 at 1:49 PM  
Blogger Melanie @ Whimsical Creations said...

Just precious! I am so happy to hear everything looks good.

October 17, 2009 at 2:02 PM  
Blogger merlin said...

28 weeks is such a happy milestone bringing a fresh sense of peace and hope. And then to have the confirmation with the sonogram that your sweet babe is looking perfect. I pray this all puts a bit of calm in your soul. A lot of folks are praying for your baby and the two of you. Blessings to you and all you love.

October 17, 2009 at 2:24 PM  
Blogger Tricia said...

My heart is so full of joy for your family. I hate that there must be such sadness mixed with all of this joy, but as you said; God is with you and he won't abandon you now.
The funny things you never expect to be excited to hear at a sonogram, right?! What a beautiful blessing.

XO*Tricia

October 17, 2009 at 3:12 PM  
Blogger Nashville TV Show said...

So happy for such a good report ... and another picture too! Continuing to pray for your family!!

October 17, 2009 at 3:52 PM  
Blogger amy said...

oh, jess! i'm so happy to hear your news...i bet you are relieved. :)

hugs to you...
amy

October 17, 2009 at 4:34 PM  
Blogger Mrs. Boot said...

So happy to read this x

October 17, 2009 at 4:48 PM  
Blogger dawn said...

Congrats on the good news...

Your light continues to shine brightly...

October 17, 2009 at 6:35 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Precious! So excited for you two!

Always in my thoughts and prayers...

Kim

October 17, 2009 at 8:15 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

SO incredibly happy for you! Your family is always in my prayers!
Summer in California

October 17, 2009 at 8:16 PM  
Blogger Christine said...

What a blessing! I love the sono pic! So looking forward to meeting precious Baby Mac!

October 17, 2009 at 8:24 PM  
Blogger Farris Family said...

Good Bless Your Sweet Family!

October 17, 2009 at 8:54 PM  
Blogger The Moffats said...

Jess & Joel - I was so happy to read this post! I have been wanting to call & check in all week. Dropped my phone in a tub full of Pinesol while cleaning(keep those comments to yourself, Joel) & was out of touch since last Friday. Just got your text when my new phone arrived & was sooo glad to see the good news. Love & hugs.

October 17, 2009 at 9:47 PM  
Anonymous Elizabeth said...

Your Faith inspires me!

October 17, 2009 at 9:47 PM  
Blogger texasinafrica said...

That is a beautiful little one! Glad to hear that things are going well, and praying for a deep, deep sense of peace for mom and dad.

October 17, 2009 at 9:51 PM  
Blogger B In Real LIfe said...

That sounds like Dr. Ohara? I had my appointment with her on Monday too...she's such a blessing during such a tender and tense time. I am so happy for you both and will continue to pray for baby's health.
...this is Brooke Krause by the way :)

October 17, 2009 at 11:52 PM  
Blogger hoosier68 said...

Thanks be to God!

October 18, 2009 at 8:46 AM  
Blogger Al's World said...

Precious baby...and remember "for I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future" Jer. 29:11. Praying for you..we are at 21 weeks and have our detailed ultrasound in two weeks..I am nervous about it as well.

October 18, 2009 at 9:21 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

So happy to hear that wonderful news. Praying for you!

October 18, 2009 at 10:35 AM  
Blogger Kathy said...

I am so amazed at the strength and courage you and Joel have. Your blog has been a witness to me.....of having faith through every walk in life. Thanks so much for sharing your journey and sharing your sono of your new precious gift. God is so good.

October 18, 2009 at 11:27 AM  
Anonymous Nan said...

Praise God!

October 18, 2009 at 6:17 PM  
Blogger tripntwinmom said...

CONGRATULATIONS and praise God on your healthy little Mac.... :)

Your family is in my thoughts and prayers as always...

October 18, 2009 at 9:12 PM  
Blogger Kristi said...

Oh, what a sweet baby! I am so glad you received another good report.

October 18, 2009 at 10:07 PM  
Blogger Misty said...

i love reading your blog. again, i am inspired, empowered and strengthened.

October 19, 2009 at 12:22 AM  
Blogger Givinya De Elba said...

Oh my heart was in my mouth as I read. My little sister's tumour started in the same place - maybe that's what neuroblastoma is all about?

I remember that back in 1980, the doctors told my parents it wasn't hereditary, and that I and my (future) siblings were not at any higher risk of the same thing. Is that still the current view?

But you still worry don't you? I have asked my doctor to check the tummies of all 3 of my babies, just to feel and see if there's anything there that shouldn't be there. (Just because my sister's tumour was so large, and I'm guessing it could be felt.)

What a beautiful picture.

I wish I could bring your Cora back for you.

October 19, 2009 at 7:09 AM  
Blogger leel said...

One more step forward. What a milestone. Yay for adrenal grand beauty and wonderful healthcare professionals who show emotions! It makes all the difference. Thanks for continuing to share it with us all! I am so happy for you, and your families.

My prediction, a boy. I'm just saying... (my guessing record is EXcellent, btw!)

Peace and love,
leel

October 19, 2009 at 7:32 AM  
Anonymous Robin in Benton said...

So happy for you! Praise God for those beautiful adrenal glands! Praying without ceasing for you

October 19, 2009 at 8:45 AM  
Blogger Emily said...

Simply Wonderful! God IS Great!!! I am so excited for both of you and keep you in my prayers.

October 19, 2009 at 9:03 AM  
Blogger Lauren said...

So precious and soooo glad everything is looking good :)

October 19, 2009 at 11:42 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Thought you might be interested in this link.
http://www.zevsfund.org/

October 19, 2009 at 2:27 PM  
Blogger Sarah said...

Awesome news!

October 19, 2009 at 5:10 PM  
Blogger Lexie Loo, Lily, Liam & Dylan Too said...

I'm so happy to hear that the baby is doing well! He/She is beautiful!

October 19, 2009 at 11:10 PM  
Blogger Princess Martha said...

Great news! Very happy for you :-)

October 20, 2009 at 12:55 AM  
Blogger Judy said...

Praise God for another great doctor's report!! I can't wait to see that sweet baby's face :)

October 20, 2009 at 8:49 AM  
Blogger Judy said...

This comment has been removed by the author.

October 20, 2009 at 8:50 AM  
Blogger Sherri said...

YEAH for Jess and Joel! Congrats on another amazing blessing. What a great doctor taking care of you and sweet baby Mac. Of course we do know God is the Master of all Dr's which is also pretty amazing. There is NO doubt He is by your side. Good to hear everything checked out great today. Hopefully these 10 weeks or so will go by quickly so you can have FULL arms again....I am sure Cora is looking down ahead and SUPER happy she IS a BIG sister :)

October 20, 2009 at 9:05 AM  
Blogger Wendy McDonagh-Valentine said...

God bless you and that beautiful new baby!! Thank you for sharing that wonderful new picture with us. : )

~ Wendy
http://Crickleberrycottage.blogspot.com/

October 20, 2009 at 9:47 AM  
Anonymous Karina said...

You have a beautiful baby there. I can't wait to see him/her in your arms!!!

October 20, 2009 at 11:55 AM  
Blogger onlymehere said...

I'm so happy to hear your wonderful news. I wish I knew what I was looking at in the photo. I think I see a hand though! Cindy

October 22, 2009 at 9:24 AM  

Post a Comment

Subscribe to Post Comments [Atom]

<< Home