05/05/07 10:00 p.m. Almost midnight

This is Shelly's mom again, writing to all you faithful blogland readers. Shelly is exhausted and uncomfortable tonight and asked me to communicate with you. I hope you don't mind the substitute!

Today was a mix of emotions for all of us in the Buck and Syswerda families. This would have been Ava's second birthday. She would have been walking and talking and for sure been a cute little sweetie by now. How we all miss her!

We celebrated her birthday last night in what is quickly becoming a tradition. We started out at the cemetery, talking and having prayer together as a family near Ava's grave. It may seem morbid or strange to some, but each time we're there, especially when the wind is blowing as it was on the day of her funeral, we're all comforted and feel like she's near. Then the kids all let pink helium balloons go "up to Ava." 


After that it was time to head back to Grandma and Grandpa Syswerda's for cake and candles and happy birthday songs to Ava. Then, the highlight of the evening. If you're a kid, that is. We all headed for Chuckie Cheese. The kids had a great time, and that's what we want Ava's birthday to be for them. A time to remember her with happiness and fun. It seems impossible that Ava would have been two, that she's been gone more than 21 months. We made it through those first terrible days only by God's grace. And little by little we're learning to live in an Ava-less world. 

Tonight Shelly headed to the hospital once again. Lots of pain and pressure. But after walking for an hour nothing much had changed, so they sent her back home. Pray she's getting some good rest! Tomorrow she is 34 weeks and officially permitted to have this little boy who has been trying to make his way out for more than a month now. 

Tomorrow is the van dedication at Spring Lake Wesleyan Church. We'd love to have many of you join us as we celebrate this gift. The dedication service will take place between the regular church services at 10:30 a.m. It's going to be a great  party!

Prayer Requests

Total healing for Josh!

Healthy development and arrival for Ephram

Continued adjustment to Josh and Shelly's new living arrangement

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