Hope and Grace

All of last week seemed to be a catching of breath for both Chris and I. We were surrounded by our brothers and sisters who came into town to support and celebrate the lives of these two unique children. We were so grateful to everyone for the meals sent to us, and the flowers, and the many emails of love and kind words for us and our children. It's quite a reflection on how God all these years has been building for us a strong bridge of support for us through all of you to get us through this. Thank you!
With the many prayers said last week, we decided to name the babies Hope and Grace. Although we are not definite on the sex of the twins, 75% of the time they are usually girls. Now if they end up being boys we will just adjust to something like Bob Hope and Lou Grace ;) ... But as you can see we are doing really well given all of the "unknowns" to this pregnancy.
There are many unknowns to deal with, which scare Chris and I the most. Whether we will have tomorrow, 6 months, or the rest of their lives to enjoy their unique love they have given us. But we are prepared and hopeful in what God gives us.
Many people might find it hard to understand why this was given to us, and even find it as punishment or just not fair. Chris and I do not feel this way. We feel chosen. Our sufferings come in so many different ways and in so many different sizes. The suffering is only not knowing when they will be with us or leave us. But we have been chosen and are grateful to be given this chance to love two children of whom many mothers and fathers would have chosen to terminate their chances of life.
If ... and that's a big IF. If, God gives us a miracle of life with these children then we dedicate it to Pope John Paul II. He told us "Do Not Be Afraid" and we will not. God says that only the faith of a mustard seed is needed to move mountains. For John Paul II's canonization a miracle is needed to be performed, perhaps he will help us move mountains.
BE NOT AFRAID!!