It passes all understanding...

I have never sobbed so hard or cried so many tears as I have over the past 12 days. This has truly been the hardest thing that Jason and I have ever been through. But, I must say that I have never experienced God's peace the way I have through the loss of our sweet Ava.

The day that we delivered our baby girl was an incredible day. Incredibly hard and emotional, but still so good. We felt God's peace and mercy in a new and awesome way. We actually were able to smile and laugh throughout the day. We had friends and family across the country praying for us and God was so faithful. I can't even explain it. It was truly a precious day. I'm thankful for the time we had with Ava, to look at her in awe of God's creation- and to tell her goodbye. I'm jealous for the time that our grandparents are having with her in heaven now, but I know that she is happy and healthy. Jesus is loving on her for us. And He is loving on us through this, too.

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. ~Philippians 4:7

Ava Marie

Our sweet baby girl was born yesterday morning just before 8:00am. She was 10.4 ounces and 9 3/4 inches long. We appreciate your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. We know that she is in heaven with Jesus, and being loved on by her Grandma & Grandpa W, and her Granny & Pop. But oh, how we long to love on her, too. We look forward to the day when we have that precious opportunity, we just have to wait longer than we expected. Here's the beautiful profile picture that we saw for the first time in December.

The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
~Psalm 34:18

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
~Psalm 147:3

Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him." The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD. Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love.
~Lamentations 3:22-26, 32