Shining through the Sorrow

My sweet Grace, You are now one month old and your little life has already blessed me so much.  Having the opportunity to hold, cuddle, and love another precious baby has brought me so much joy.  God certainly knew what He was doing when he gave you to me.   Before my memory of your birth completely fades, I thought I'd write it all down - just as I have with all your brothers and sisters. Leading up to Your Birth After passing your due date of February 14th, my anxiety surrounding your arrival continued to grow.  I already had a midwife appointment scheduled for Wednesday the 17th, but I ended up calling into the office on Tuesday the 16th.  I was tearful and worried about all the little things that I now know can go wrong.  What if something happens with her cord?  What if it's wrapped around her neck?  What if the placenta starts to detach?  What if she's too big?  What if she passes meconium while inside? The nurse wrote dow...

(My precious husband had the honor of speaking at this year's annual Young Life Banquet.  Held last night, we celebrated 75 years since the ministry has been introducing kids to Christ.  "Grateful.  Joyful.  Hopeful."  Below is his speech.) For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Kyle Dingle. I have been married to my beautiful wife Meghan for ten years and we have 5 children together. I am a 5 th grade teacher at Maugansville Elementary School and I love Young Life. Before I found out about YL, I was your pretty typical kid. I grew up here in Washington County. My parents, who are awesome, are sitting at my table tonight. They taught me all the right things growing up like how to be polite, to do well in school, and how to fix anything. My brother and I have a running joke that no matter what our significant others are interested in buying we say, “Well, heck I can build one of those.” Thanks Dad for that. Most importantly, my parents thought...