3 Babies, 2 Miscarriages, Then Christian

 "I prayed for this child, and the LORD has granted me what I asked of Him." 1 Samuel 1:27

This week we celebrate our fourth child, Christian, turning 13.  I can't believe it! The above verse is the one the Lord really laid heavy on my heart when we were strongly desiring another child. See, we had had 3 children right in a row with no problems.  Actually, it was 3 in 3 1/2 years.  Then I got pregnant on the same time table as before with a fourth baby.  I was so surprised, and disappointed, to have an early miscarriage.  There were complications with that miscarriage and I was told not to conceive for at least another year due to a high cancer risk.  We complied and then about a year later concieved again.  I was so excited to be having a fourth!  But it was not to be, again I had an early miscarriage.  My sister had had 3 children herself and then a series of miscarriages and never had a full-term child again. So I really began to think that maybe this was it for us.  I knew I wanted more children, if the Lord willed, and was not ready to give up at this point.  Thankfully I concieved again a few months later and we got Christian!  I am so glad that I did not give up or stop having children just to avoid miscarriages (like some well meaning friends and family recommended.)  I would not have Christian or the wonderful 6 other children after him if I had listened to them.  I just want to encourage any women out there who have had a series of miscarriages not to give up hope.  God is in control, not us. We never know why He allows these things to happen to us, but one day we will.  Many times our bodies are going through things we don't even know about and it may be just a season for us.  I've had 2 more miscarriages since then, but never 2 in row again. 

It's always bitter sweet when one of our sons turns 13, especially hard to a mama.  I had such a hard time when my first turned 13.  It seems they change so much at this age.  It's like, "where has my little boy gone!"  Oh Christian, don't change too much or grow-up too fast.  You are so special to us and God has given you so many talents!

Even though he is a middle child, he is big brother to 6 younger ones.  He is so close to Matthew, his younger brother with Down Syndrome.  He is an awesome hero for him!