The Gavin Chronicles, January 8, 2008






































Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
(Isaiah 40:28-31)

One hundred and thirty days ago our lives were forever changed by the birth of Gavin Eric Philben. That same day we placed our faith in God to someday bring our beautiful baby home. Today those prayers have been answered.

In a mere 130 days I have personally learned so much from this journey.....so much from this small child. Looking through Gavin's eyes I realize that life is about perseverance and that faith is believing in things you cannot see. I have learned that much of what happens to us is totally out of our control despite our best efforts to control it all the way. Let go and Let God really is more than a phrase that people say to you.....it is true. I have learned so much from Gavin about the power of prayer. We have been surrounded by such wonderful people from coast to coast who have stood by us in prayer through thick and thin. We have friends who have cried with us and laughed with us. We have shared this journey with so many. I have learned what a beautiful husband I have. He has been my rock, my stronghold and supporter even on days that seemed to last forever. He has stood by me through thick and thin, always with arms open and a shoulder to cry on. His strength on this journey has never wavered. I have a wonderful family who has so willingly opened their arms to being temporary "mom and dad" to my two other kiddos. Grandma and Papa will always hold a special place in these kids hearts. The Lord provided us with such a wonderful hospital staff. This staff was not only there for us medically but they were like family. They will forever hold a place in our hearts. They did so much for Gavin and us as a family that words alone could never pay back enough thanks. We rejoiced with them in each step of the way and we cried together too. Gavin meant as much to them as he does to us and for that we are forever grateful.

At one point during this journey I doubted whether or not I would ever see this day. We have been surrounded by such love and compassion far and wide. We are so thankful to each and every one of you who has kept us in your thoughts and prayers.

Today begins a new journey for us. Together, with God as our captain, we embark on new beginnings. We come together as a family and support each other. The future is bright before us and we are excited for the opportunities that lie ahead. Please continue to keep us in your prayers. Always remember that God's will will never take you where his grace cannot sustain you. In times of doubt pause for a moment and "Be still and know that he is God"

The Gavin Chronicles will continue......however, the frequency may change. Please continue with us as we begin a new chapter on our journey. We love to hear from you and your continued support means so much to us.

I have enclosed a few pictures from Gavin's big day......I will update more.....hopefully tomorrow....after I get some sleep .

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