Birthdays are for Joy

   Happy Birthday, Sweetheart. Twelve is a celebration, a triathlon, and an overcoming.

   Last year at this time you were being told you had severe, acute, and chronic colitis, for life, from Doernbecher. Oh, the story. It is thousands of words long, but only one word counts: God! He is good, and He is able. 

  He writes your story, not men or women; don't ever forget that. He led us north to Seattle Children's Hospital, and they said a very different thing: mild to moderate colitis and healing possible. "Yes, very likely an infection, not genetics, and we have patients who make a full healing." Full healing.  

   There is hope in front of you lovely girl. His grace reigns supreme. This past year He was, still is, our hope. We have hoped upon Him, and He met the need. He is able, and He is good. 

    And you have run your race with grace.

 You persevered. You gave all.
Yesterday's triathlon? A herald of healing.

 We are privileged to run beside you. 
We cheer for you with joy.

     Morrocan, for the girl who dreams words and worlds.

 May this next year be blessed and looked upon with anticipation.

   What does a twelve year old girl want for her birthday? That would be: pretty soaps, pretty papers, a pretty nightie, (on sale) and of course, outdoor gear. A Patagonia Sling Bag (Using the REI dividend and a 20% off coupon :-), an outdoor emergency sleeping bag, and Rite in the Rain paper, then there's a digital watch, books, and more books.