Friday, October 16, 2020

A matter of heart...

 It's been quite the week for our family, especially for sweet Blossom and her man. An ultrasound on Tuesday afternoon revealed that their precious little boy has a hole in his heart. 

As you can imagine, this was a shock, and not being well versed in such things it did take their breath away somewhat. Time was needed to learn, to process their own emotions and to come to peace with what is ahead of them.



The wee bub, though not quite so little as he measures much larger than an average 32 week baby, is content inside mummy's womb and though there's been much talk of bringing him into the world a couple of weeks early, dear Bloss feels he should stay right where he is until he's naturally ready to meet them.

Another complication, but this time for Blossom herself is a diagnosis of hyperalgesia, which is incredibly painful as it affects all her nerve endings. It should disappear after the pregnancy so we are praying that is so.



I was blessed to care for Cully May and Rafaella twice this week while Blossom had her ultrasound and then her doctor's checkup at the hospital two days later.

The girls love being here, which is a great thing because they adore their mummy and miss her terribly on the rare occasions she cannot take them with her. Cully May gave the cubby house a jolly good scrub first of all...







...while Rafaella watered all Poppy's raised vegetable beds. She watered herself rather well too. Ha ha!



When the girls arrive here the first thing they do is kick off their shoes and put their gum boots on so that can go tramping through the chicken coop and explore the yard to see what new thing Poppy has built or what flowers they can pick or what vegetables Nana will gather for lunch.

It was a mostly overcast day, so perfect in this heat to play outside, but occasionally the sun would peek through and they'd retreat to the undercover cubby.

Cully May was quite taken with the chive flowers yesterday as they were the same colour as her skirt and t-shirt....



...and Rafaella thought the flowers on my coriander were so pretty that she'd like to take them home - though a little while later she asked, "Nana, can I eat them?" I said yes and so she did! I did explain though that we don't eat all flowers only the ones Nana says are okay. Phew.



Once the clouds cleared completely we went inside and they set up their tea set ready for morning tea. Rice crackers and hummus first and later a plate of watermelon, grapes, strawberries and cheese. They definitely know that there's feasting at Nana's house and even know where I hide the 'sweeties' so later on they continued feasting on Honey Jumbles with cups of real milky tea. 





When Blossom arrived back at lunchtime I had French chicken salad sandwiches ready and a pot of tea brewing. I'd baked a new bread recipe earlier in the day (after making my own oat flour in the NutriBullet) and it was delicious for these sandwiches, very hearty. 



Life has a way of presenting new challenges at unexpected times, some we are quite unprepared for, others we have a little experience with...but it's important to remember that there is no challenge or news that God is unaware of, and as you walk the path which is set before you, one you may not have ever chosen had you been given a choice, HE IS RIGHT BESIDE YOU.

Blossom knows this, she has no doubt that God is her shield and her strength, that He will direct them through whatever is ahead. He loves her baby boy more than she, He loves Blossom more than I do. He holds her precious family right close to His heart and will never leave them nor forsake them.

The little girls don't know or understand any of the secret things that are happening inside mummy's womb with their baby brother, but they do know he is loved just as deeply as they are and that their home is a safe sanctuary where they shall welcome him into one day soon and spoil him with abundant squidgy hugs and kisses. 



I'm reminded often that the people I pass in the street, the men and women we watch fishing on the river as we drive by, the shop assistants who serve me with a smile at the supermarket, our doctors, the police officers often seen patrolling our neighbourhood, the bus driver stepping out of his seat to help an elderly woman on board...all these people live their own challenges, mostly hidden from our view, rarely mentioned. 

Most everyone you meet has a story to tell, something to laugh about, something that brings tears, something to strive for, celebrations to cheer and something which requires a personal battle. I imagine many of you are currently facing your own trials, needs and/or celebrations, so I am praying the Lord's strength and joy is increased in whatever circumstance you have been placed in this season of life.

May I ask that you hold Blossom, Ross and their baby boy in your prayers, that you pray for the girls to sleep well (they don't) and be filled with the peace of Jesus through these weeks of waiting for their 'baby bruvva" (as Rafaella calls him), that you offer praise to the Lord for Blossom's unwavering faith in our God and her trust in all His ways, that God would show her His good pleasure and His healing? 

(((thank you))) - this means the world to us as we do not have other believers in our family. xx

I shared this pattern early last year, but if you missed it I'd like to offer it again today. A simple design but the verse speaks volumes don't you think?

Use the link below to download the free pattern. Perhaps if you have already stitched it for yourself you may choose to stitch it again as a gift for someone needing a reminder of Who they can trust, Who is their shield, and Who will hold them when the world feels as though it's falling beneath their feet.

DOWNLOAD "You O Lord are a Shield"



Bless you heaps, sweet friends.

Hold fast to Jesus, for He is right within reach....

hugs,


70 comments:

LMM said...

Jenny, Prayers certainly coming your way for this journey for all your family. https://www.heartkids.org.au/who-we-are/our-approach-airs/support this group is apparently incredible, so it might be worthwhile getting in contact with them.

Susan said...

Jenny, I rarely comment even though our lives seem to be on a very similar trajectory, even to the point our youngest daughter’s health issues, and their sons. Our John was born last year with tetralogy of Falot, which is significant heart defects. He had a hole in one area and missing arteries in other. People have prayed for him from all over the world and we see daily miracles in John and in ourselves. God’s family will step up for yours as well. Praying for y’all and looking forward to seeing what amazing things God will do!
Blessings , Sue

Deborah said...

Praying for peace in hard things and for knowledgeable medical personnel to assist with the heart issues.

Little Quiltsong said...

Praying, Jenny, for all of you and especially for the 'little one'!

Ruth said...

Years ago, a friend's baby boy was born with the hole in his heart (that usually closes soon after birth) and when he was about 9 months old he had heart surgery to close it and did fine. Personally, I had ASD (atrial septal defect) heart surgery when I was 47 to close that little hole in my heart, as it had become quarter-sized as I aged. I once met the first surviving baby (female) to have a ventricle hole repaired. She had met, on an airplane, the first surviving baby (another female) who had the atrial hole repaired. We three females were all born in the 1950s, when heart surgery on children was just becoming known. Best Wishes for this new baby boy and mother!

Jackie Heath said...

I will certainly be praying for Blossom and her baby. I have 2 cousins whose babies were born with holes in their hearts. One had some initial surgery soon after birth then around age of 1 yr had surgery to repair the heart . The other baby was about the same age when she had her surgery. Both children are doing fine now and you would never know what they had been thru. As you said, the good Lord has them in his hands and He will take care of Blossom and that sweet baby boy! I pray for all of you during this time and that you will feel His presence each minute of the day! Much love and blessings! Jackie Heath

KatieQ said...

I will keep your family, especially the new "bruvva" in my prayers.

Caroline said...

Praying for your gorgeous family xx

Susie said...

Prayers for your lovely family. My brother was born with a hole in his heart 55 years ago and doing very well. He did have heart surgery very young and has been closely monitored all of his life. In fact, he went to the cardiologist yesterday and received a clean bill of health. He had always known he would need a pacemaker and received one when he was 25 years old. I understand the surgery nowadays is less invasive and healing is quicker. I'm sure little bubs will do just fine where he is until he is ready just as Blossom thinks, then then the professionals can assess. I'm sure they'll decide to c-section though to place less strain on his heart. I'm sure Blossom already knows this too. As a mum of four c-sections, rest is crucial (hard to do with a baby) but will be paramount to a quick recovery. Take care.

Sandy said...

I will indeed add them to my prayers.

Becki said...

This was all so beautifully written. I'm praying tonight for your grandson, the girls' baby bruvva. :) And that God will shield you all from the darts of worry the Enemy is throwing at you right now.

Shelley said...

Prayers for them all and you and your husband have been lift up to Jesus. We too are going another serious cancer battle, and everything is up in the air, stressful and disheartening. I don't know what I'd do without Jesus to hold me up . Xox to you Jenny

eliz said...

(((HUGS))) and prayers for your precious boy and his family. (from Minnesota/USA)
I had a super risky (surprise) pregnancy at 46. My son had so many frightening issues, I don't know how we made it. I was 47 when he was born. He's 16 today, almost 6' tall, smart as a whip. And yes- God Loves him more than I do. And he is here healthy! Praise God.

Angie in SoCal said...

Prayers for the new baby and all of Blossom's family. That includes you and Mr. E, Jenny.

gracie said...

Keeping all of your family in my thoughts.

Arrowhead Gramma said...

My thoughts and prayers are with your entire family and most especially for Blossom and her baby son in the days ahead. As believers, we know that God never gives us more than we can handle and will see us through any adversity that comes our way. Stay strong.

Allie said...

Praying for this precious baby boy, his mumma, and her mumma. Well, praying for ALL of you, always. Beautiful post, beautiful pictures of those sweet little girls! How they must adore their nana....much as you adored yours!

Kay said...

Sending special prayers and thoughts for you all. x

Joanne said...

Hi Jenny,
Wishing you all a future with joy, laughter and good health.
Thanks for sharing all these thought and moments on your blog :)
hugs,
Joanne

Lin said...

Prayers for all the family Jenny, especially the little one. xx

Beth said...

Sending you a great big hug!

Fran said...

Praying for you all

Barbara-Kay said...

Prayers for your family, including the new little boy. Thank you for trusting us to pray.

Miriam said...

My prayers for you all,
Miriam

Robin in New Jersey said...

Prayers will continue for the baby and Blossom. The Lord has them in his hand. He is safe to trust. 💞🙏❤

Erica said...

My prayers are for you all Jenny. Take care

Linda said...

Jenny, praying for your daughter and family. Thank you for sharing this post. The Lord is good. Love, Linda

Linda said...

...and I want to add that your grandbabies are just beautiful! 😊

Joan G said...

Praying for all of you. May God bless you and keep you forever in his peace.

Cat Lady said...

I am definitely lifting Blossom, Ross and their baby boy in my prayers, as well as the girls and you too.

Suzy said...

I too, am sending prayers and lots of Love. ♥ ♥ ♥

Karen said...

Our tender Shepherd, all-wise Physician is surely knitting your precious grandson together according to His perfect plan for his life. May your family witness the miracles He will do with him!

Dots said...

Prayers for Blossom and baby, and family,too. Always comes with a bit of concern and shock when we first hear news like that. But we understand as believers that God has a plan. The words I focus on today, are those said by the angel to the women who came to the tomb discovering Jesus' body was gone. He said to the women, "Remember". "They remembered His words". I feed on that in times of concern or trouble. To remember what God said, is empowering and comforting. I hope this helps you as you pray for your loved ones. Hopefully you will draw comfort from remembering what God has said in His word. A lot can happen in that womb between now and baby's birth. 'For You created my inmost being;You knit me together in my mother's womb.' God bless.
Be well, Jenny.

Farm Quilter said...

Praying for Blossom and the whole family, as well as the medical teams caring for Blossom and her son. Prayers for peace and strength for you and Mr. E as well! Friends are the family you choose, so you do have believers in your extended, large family and you know your blogging friends believe!! It is comforting to know that our Savior knows about all that is going on with each of us and cares specifically for us. May His peace that passeth all understanding fill you and your family as you await the birth.

Maureen said...

Praying for all your family as you face this trial. Our God is able. May His in-the-midst peace fill each of your hearts. 💜✝️💜✝️💜

Anonymous said...

Prayers for Blossom and the whole family, you and your hubby included. Such a trying time.
Kathleen - kakingsbury at verizon dot net

barcord said...

Praying for your little grandson. Also for his mum and dad and all his family waiting to meet him. May you all know that special peace that only comes from Jesus. God Bless you all.

Tammy said...

Praying ...Praying...Praying my dear friend. Love the pictures of your Grandies...They are little dolls. Love that Raphaella asked if she could eat the herbal flour.....My question is did she like the taste of it? Now you will have to watch her to make sure she doesn't sample all the flowers in the garden. Love you my friend....God will heal the babe and make sure he arrives safely and will take care of Blossom too....The other babes were difficult deliveries and look how they have thrived......They are such blessings and this little one will be a huge blessing. Oh the things he will do ....and I will be sending up lots of prayers

Alison Ryan said...

Sending prayers for Blossom and baby and for your family xxx

Sharon said...

Praying for all - especially for Blossom and baby brother to be. Our marvelous Lord works miracles - may He bless your family with one... Much love, Sharon

Susan said...

Prayers have been and will continue to go for Blossom & baby and the rest of the family. God can work a miracle and close that hole before the baby is born. He did for my husband's nephew. I admire Blossom's faith in God whatever the outcome. Prayers continue for you too.

Chris said...

So many prayers for Blossom and family because you've cared for us, and now it's our turn to care for you. Hope you can feel God's family pressing in close as we all lift your family in prayer. Thanking Jesus for loving us so we can share that love. Bless your Nana heart--those precious grandbabies steal our hearts like we never dreamed.

Anonymous said...

Prayers for Blossom and her baby. Hope all goes well in the coming weeks and your two delightful granddaughters hopefully can contain their excitement and get some sleep so that Blossom can get some well earned rest as well. God Bless you all.
Glenise

Karen said...

Blossom, Ross and the girls are precious in His sight. I'll be praying blessing on them and the new baby boy soon to arrive. God will hold them all safe in His hands. Arohanui

Cheryl's Teapots2Quilting said...

I'll add everyone to my prayer list.

Brenda said...

Hello Jenny, I do not comment very often any more due to all that is going on in my own life. Yet, know that I still enjoy every post of yours because it still holds so much faith, love and guidance in every part. You are such a guiding light for me in my walk with God and I include You and your family in my daily prayers. With this news, I will continue to prayer and ask that our Lord hold tightly onto your family and guide each and every one of you and give you all the strength that you need. Bless you Jenny and all of your family!

Judy1522 said...

I will be praying for all of you that you will continue to have a peace that passes all understanding. I am sad that you have to go through this but as you said we all have challenges in our lives and I know that you will get through this also. God really does know what he is doing even if we don't understand it.

Elizabeth said...

So sorry to hear this about the wee baby!! But will be asking GOD to help with all things and that it will be fixable. My 7 yr old granddaughter was born with 4 heart abnormalities...well, one of them is that the vein in one arm is not in the right place...in her case, nothing so far has been done. At her 1 year checkup, most of it had healed up and the doctor told them to consider her normal. She is a very active child, who does get very tired at times, but lives a full life. I hope this will give you hope for your grandson!! I am glad that they found it early...that may help in how they decide to treat him, or not.

FlourishingPalms said...

I'm so sorry to hear Blossom's news about the baby and her own health. My concerns are for all of you. I'm so glad you have those happy-faced, precious girls to make you smile and keep you distracted from worry. I pray for peace (and sleep) for every one of you. No need to respond to me... you have way too many other things to think about. Blessings.

Lorrie said...

Such a heaviness to hold during this time. I have a daughter due to have a baby in less than 2 months and can well imagine your heartache. I will pray for Blossom and her baby, and for peace for all of you at this time.

Carol said...

Adding my prayers for your loved ones to all the others mentioned above. Such a privilege to pray for you, keep us updated please.

Our photos said...

We also send prayers for Blossom and baby and for your family!

Pink Rose said...

Hi Jenny oh boy this post was a shock I will pray for Bloss and her precious u born babe and for her beautiful family. Oh Jenny what a shock for you all I will pray that everything womrks out for them and sending you a big hug my friend ,take care lovely lady xx

Nanna Chel said...

Jenny, I am behind with catching up with friends’ blog posts. I am praying for the little bub and I am sure he will be fine. I do hope the girls sleep better after he arrives as his folks will need all the sleep they can get. I know you will be there to help which must be such a relief for Blossom. I hope the warmer weather isn’t making the migraines worse for you. Big hugs. No need to reply.

Susan said...

Jenny, 40+ years ago, I worked for pediatric cardiologists who did wonders every single day with children with exactly this - a hole in the heart. It was the norm in their practice that the children would survive and grown healthy. I'm sure in 40 years things have gotten even better, so I'm confident Blossom's little one will be the fulfillment of all your prayers. And mine. The girls certainly look like they love coming to Nana's house!

Sarah said...

Hi Jenny - my little daughter was born 5 years ago with a VSD hole in her heart. They said she would need surgery weeks after birth but she held out until 18 months which was great because being a little bigger was good for surgery. So, the fact that your grandson is a large baby will be good for him if surgery is necessary. But there is so much that can happen - it can close by itself, it can be lived with sometimes and other times well, it needs intervention. I pray that Blossom and the baby will have good doctors who explain well without frightening her. We didn't know until Charlotte was born and I remember how difficult it was to take in the news and to imagine her having to have such huge surgery. But babies are amazing and medical teams are God-gifted so I pray that God goes before your family as they anticipate this new arrival and makes path to restoration of full functioning of his little heart. Blossom and her family will learn to live with and care for him until it gets better and none of it makes an once of difference to the love that will smother him when he puts in his appearance. God bless you all.

Snoodles said...

Prayers going up for "lil bub" and for Blossom, big sisters, daddy, and grandmother and grandfather. Bless you for this post; I, too, have been burdened recently with the thoughts that all of those I meet may be putting a good face on but dealing with pain or sadness in their souls. Me? Helping hubby recover from cancer surgery....we have a long road to travel, but God walks with us. Blessings to you, Jenny.

Colossians110 said...

Hi! This is the first time I’ve ever commented on anyone’s blog post. :) you and your family are such an encouragement! Thank you for always pointing us to the Lord, reminding us that it’s in Him that we live, move, and have our being. I’ll pray for your daughter and family, and for strength for them and you, as you encourage them. Big things are ahead, but less scary when the Lord is near.
On a creative note, do you have a pattern for your “Have you prayed about it?” stitchery in this blog post? I’ve looked in your Etsy shop, and can’t find it. That embroidery would be a helpful reminder in my home!

Jenny of Elefantz said...

Hi :-)
I have three pages of patterns in my Etsy Shop - perhaps you only looked at the first one? Here is the link for you...
https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/783097867/constant-in-prayer-romans-1212-hand
Bless you!

Christine M said...

How lovely having Cully May and Rafaella visit you. I bet they keep you on your toes. Thinking of you all. xxx

Roxie said...

My pastors son was born with that. He is 18 years old and just graduated from high school. Here is a YouTube video of my pastor and his wife talking about it. He has also written a book entitled We Believe.
https://youtu.be/GoifzXLNJ3Y

KingsailK said...

Hello Jenny ,Yes we will pray and Yes Our Saviour is in Control no matter what!We are asked just to Trust in Him We serve a Great God!Lovely photos!and Blog as always!Thank you X💕

Lu said...

Thank you Jenny for sharing your beautiful free pattern. I am saying a prayer for you and yours and for all the many people who follow your world.

suz said...

I will definitely keep your family in my prayers. My Mom's best friend had a son born with a hole in his heart-this in 1939s, long before all the wonderful new cardiac procedures were even thought of. He passed away last year from complications of diabetes. Her little one will have a tough row at first, but with God's help, he will grow to be a wonderful, healthy man.

sjaoce said...

Jenny, prayers for Blossom, wee-one, your daughter and your entire family. Thank you for another beautiful project.

Denise :) said...

Psalm 3 is my very favorite psalm and hymn! It just happened to be in my reading this morning, too! I may stitch this up this weekend! Thank you so much! :)

Moira said...

Praying for all of you. The girls are so beautiful and I know you enjoy having them spend time there with you. And thank you for the free stitchery project, as well as that very first picture of the completed project - both are what I need right now.

Sharoll Stuckey said...

You are a blessing to so many! Keeping you and your lovely family in my prayers.

liloca, liloquinha said...

Que o SENHOR os abençoe!!!Obrigada por compartilhar do Senhor e da sua Graça.
Liége

jrtemps said...

Praying for you and your dear family.