We had a very special guest visit our house this evening! We had talked about someone special coming, but when Santa arrived, the kids were all stunned! We took him down near the Christmas tree and each of the kids took turns talking to Santa. Keyan asked for a teddy bear, McKenzy asked for a surprise, Abagayle told him she wanted jewelry, Sidney asked for a Barbie, and Jamahl asked for Legos…which Santa said was one of his favorite things too! Santa showed them Rudolph’s jingle bell harness, and his magical keys that help him get into homes that don’t have chimneys. He told us that Mrs. Claus really likes to pick out special things for each of them and helps him make sure every child has a special Christmas.
Jamahl had LOTS of questions about his toy sack, getting past our nurses, how the reindeer fly, and if he knew our elf on the shelf, Magic Mike. Santa knew just how to answer his questions and you could see Jamahl’s eyes growing bigger and bigger.
Obviously, we are all feeling so much joy to have Keyan home with us this Christmas season. Your life is forever changed when you go through a holiday season with a child in the hospital. The reality for us is that the overall picture of her health has not changed. The intestinal failure is still present, she is still TPN dependant, and we live constantly walking on egg shells waiting for her to have a medical crisis. However, her day-to-day life is SOOO improved and we now know that that is really all that matters. With the help of Cincinnati, Hospice, and several of our doctors here in Grand Rapids, we have given her the quality of life that Paul and I so desperately longed for. This is what life is all about. When faced with the mortality of someone you hold so precious, the value of every joyful minute engraves memories on your soul. The visit from Santa was just that….a magical moment to etch into our hearts and minds. One that will carry us thru the tough times of the year to come. A memory to share with each other for years to come and reminisce about the awe that it inspired. Tonight, our hearts are full, our minds are reeling with questions, and we are so blessed to be together. I just want to sit very still and savor the fullness of my heart!
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3 comments:
Oh Stephanie! (((((HUGS)))) Memories to cherish, for sure. You're great at creating those!
What a great evening for all you precious Hogans! We love each and every one of you and wish you the most blessed Christmas. We sure miss getting to see you and we're looking forward to "pool" season when maybe you can come camp out in Indiana! Love from Mark & Debbie.
Stephanie and family,
I look for new postings every day, knowing that they are few and far between - but I don't mind because I don't want to miss any. My prayers are with you and your family, and I know you will treasure each day for what it is, a gift from God.
LOVE FOR YOU AND YOURS, GWEN
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