February 25 - a Day of LOVE

Most of us think of Valentine's Day as a day of LOVE. For me, February 25 has taken that moniker. Last year, February was filled with hospital ICU visits by loved ones - in Hobart early in the month, Greenwood and Chicago later in the month. All of these visits remain heavy in my heart today, and yet, remind me that "when God closes a door, He opens a window."
Early in February, Bryan and I spent several frightening days waiting for Sharon to recover from E.R. trip that included some nightmare moments. After Sharon's recovery, Jackie spent most of the second half of February living the same nightmare in Indianapolis with Mom. At the same time, Cyndi was waiting for the delivery of her first grandchild (a delivery at Northwestern Hospital that was meticulously choreographed with an immediate trip to Children's Memorial Hospital.)
On February 25, God opened a window as He closed a door. In the afternoon, Bailey entered into this world and made her first trip to CMH. In the early evening, Mom left this world. (I find comfort in thinking that she asked God to let her go and spend the extra time with Bailey.) After SEVERAL months in CMH's neo-natal ICU, heart surgery, oxygen therapy, and LOTS of prayers, Bailey continues to grow, thrive, and celebrate her FIRST BIRTHDAY today!

Can this BE the same Abbey?

Abbey-Abigail had a wonderful check-up last week. She "fluffed" out so much that I thought the "aura" that surrounds our house had enveloped her. Luckily, she's perfect weight (13.9 pounds - only gained .9 this year.) The horrible winter took a toll on her coat - she was starting to mat and pull, so I had her groomed at the same time. Little did I know that the "fluff" was just that! Wasn't sure I was picking up the right dog until she started wagging that tail! WHAT A TRANSFORMATION!!!
BEFORE:

AFTER:

ONE YEAR LATER

Presidents' Day (February 16, 2009) marked a very special anniversary for me. Last February was full of unpleasantness (Sharon in ICU, Mom in ICU, Mom's death, Bailey's rough start), but the 16th marked a bright moment. On the 16th, Cyndi, Megan and Kevin brought my Abbey-Abigail to me. Megan and Kevin had taken her for her shots, spay, and recovery. Little did I know how Abbey would steal my heart.

THANK YOU Cyndi, Megan, and Kevin for the best gift ever!