KEVIN, MARCY, AND BABY MARSHALL

On Dec. 18th, Marshall went in for his routine 2-week check-up where his pediatrician became very concerned about his heartbeat. It was supposed to be beating between 150 -200 bpm, and was beating at 250 bpm. He sent them to the Primary Children's ER, and was quickly seen by a cardiologist, and administered medication to bring his heartbeat down. Unfortunately, the med. did not work and he was admitted into the P.I.C.U. the following morning. It was unimaginable to me that my own brother and his dear, sweet wife were going through the VERY same experience that Shaun and I had just gone through one year prior. I couldn't believe it, and was shocked and saddened all at the same time. The days that followed were extremely difficult, and it seemed like none of the medications were working to bring his little heartbeat down. Miraculously, after their ward and our family fast and many prayers and priesthood blessings, he started to respond to the medication that he was given and was just barely released from the hosp. two days ago. He truly is a miracle, and a very special baby. We love them so very much, and want to thank all of you for your concern, thoughts, and prayers. It has meant the world to Kevin and Marcy and to our family.

OUR VERY SPECIAL SERVICE PROJECT!

While Caleb was in the hospital during Christmas last year, we felt so blessed and loved by complete strangers who had donated beautiful homemade quilts, blankets, bibs, burpcloths, special stuffed animals, and so many other generous gifts. Shaun and I had discussed that we wanted to do something special to give back to those parents who would be spending their holidays in the hosp. this year. We sat down with the kids during Family Home Evening, and talked about how much these gifts meant to us, and asked if they could donate some money, and ideas for what our family could do for these babies. We were so proud of them when they each willingly gave $5 of their own money. We decided to buy 44 (that's how many NICU cribs there are) stuffed giraffes and penguins with a special note attached. It was truly a beautiful experience, and a tradition that we will hopefull carry on for years to come.

Syd. and I had the great privlege of delivering these stuffed animals and the darling stockings that our "Activity Days" group designed and created for the NICU babies as well. (Thanks Em. for all of your help and supporting me in this big, crazy project! I love you!)

Syd. LOVES dressing Caleb up in anything that she can find. You name it--her overgrown, huge sweatshirts, hats, scarves, the list goes on and on!!

ANNUAL NOWERS CHRISTMAS PARTY

Thanks Nat for hosting such a wonderful party. We had a wonderful time!! The kids had a blast trying to hit open the pinata, opening presents, and just hangin' out!!