Chicago

This past week we took a family vacation with Munga, Gramma & Uncle Ben to the city of Chicago. We had a wonderful time exploring and visiting various city attractions thanks to the CityPass. Day 1: We went to the Shedd Acquarium. The kids loved the dolphin show and seeing all the fish, sharks, frogs, lizards and more. We then went to the Field Museum where Samuel was finally able to see some dinosaur bones. He had been talking about dinosaur bones for a really long time. He was thrilled to get a wooden skeleton model of a T-Rex, named "Sue". We went to a Play Lab for the kids inside the museum where they played musical instruments, dressed up as turtles and viewed objects under microscopes. Day 2: We took the L-train in to the city and then used the bus system to get around town. We went to the Museum of Science & Industry and once again the kids loved the whole museum experience. There was so much for them to do and interact with. We then went to the top of the Sears Tower for a magnificent view. We topped the day off by a swim in the pool at the hotel. Day 3: We walked through Millenium Park along the Magnificent Mile before heading home.

We are so thankful for this precious time with family and for the memories that were made together. What a joy it is to see the kids discovering new things with such excitement. They are at such fun ages and I really wish that time could just stand still for a while. So that's the short version and recap of our past week. Obviously everyone was feeling well enough for the trip, for which we are so thankful!

Millenium Park

The Field Museum

Uncle Ben
Train Conductor Samuel
Resting on the bus

View from the Skydeck of Sears Tower

Luca & Emma were really impressed by the view

The Shedd Acquarium

"Sue" the T-Rex

The Cutest Nephew Ever!

Diego Miguel Morel

Welcome to the world...little nephew!

Diego Miguel was born on Monday, May 12 in the Dominican Republic. He weighed 7 lbs. and was 19 inches. We praise the Lord for his protective hand over Jennie and the baby. At her check-up on Monday she was told that the sack was dry and the doctor wanted to confirm that with an ultrasound. Upon having the ultrasound they also saw the cord wrapped around the baby's neck. Therefore, Jennie delivered the baby via c-section on Monday night. Everyone is doing well and we are anxious to get some pictures for you all to see. I am told that Miguel's ribs are feeling better so thank you for your prayers for him. My mom said the day of the delivery it was 94 degrees with 89% humidity. I can't even imagine life with no AC!

Just in case you may think I am a slacker of an Aunt by not letting you all know sooner. I have been layed up in bed since Sunday night with the flu. I was unable to keep fluids and food down for 2 1/2 days and I reached my breaking point last night. Just walking to the bathroom was a difficulty. I went in the ER because of dehydration and felt much better after a couple liters of fluids and anti-nausea meds. I am still very weak today but hope that I am on the up-swing.

Jonathan has an EMG on Monday morning to test his peripheral nerves. Samuel is currently at his follow-up appointment for his pheumonia so hopefully good news on that front as well. Okay, I need to get back down for a rest. Have a wonderful day!

Tulip Time

Yesterday we had the chance to go to Holland, Michigan and enjoy the festivities of "Tulip Time." Being raised next door to Solvang, California it really brought back a lot of memories since the Danish & Dutch cultures are so close in appearance. The weather was nice and we just had a fun time as a family. The kids liked the idea of Cold Stone ice cream for lunch, watching the dutch dancers and the making of a wooden shoes from start to finish (it really kept their attention). And of course with tulips being on my top 10 favorite flower list, it was a spectacular day for all. Thanks to Jonathan you can all enjoy some of the beauty too...

Niece or Nephew?

The anticipation is building as we await for the grand entrance of our new niece or nephew. Jennie and Miguel are holding their breath in hopes that Nano will arrive before the delivery. Please pray for my mom's traveling safety as she leaves LA at midnight on Friday and will arrive in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic on Saturday afternoon. The doctor says that Jennie will go before her due date which is the 14th. Speaking from experience cross-cultural deliveries always provide interesting stories and very unique circumstances. Pray for safety, calmness and for a healthy arrival of their first baby.

I am also writing to ask especially for your prayers for Miguel. Today he was working on a building project when a person fell from the roof. Miguel tried to catch him and consequently broke some ribs (they think) in an attempt to break his fall. An x-ray has not yet been done but he is in a lot of pain and sure could use your prayers. This is not ideal timing with a baby on it's way at any moment. Please keep them in your prayers and for God's peace, wisdom and strength to pour over them during this time.

Thank you so much!

The Update

1. Samuel is feeling much better this week and hopefully has made a full recovery from his pheumonia. He is still battling a runny nose and some coughing. The inhaler we received a week ago for him really seems to help him with his coughing. He definitely gets agitated when he is running around and playing so that most likely is asthmatic related. He visits the doctor next week for a follow-up check and we'll see if he needs something else for his runny nose. Any tips on how to teach him how to blow his nose? He just doesn't get it!

2. Jonathan had his MRI yesterday and he will receive the results in 2 more days. They want to rule out all the major concerns especially MS. He too has a doctor visit with the neurologist next week. He still is experiences some tingling and pain in his hands and we really hope to get some answers to this issue.

3. After 2 ER visits for Jonathan's mom, Lora, we hope that her issues will soon be resolved as well. She has been layed up for a week not being able to keep food down and often times liquid as well, along with severe nausea. The doctors determined that she had a bowel reversal problem and she seems to be doing better with the new meds. Pray for continued strengthening to her body.

4. The ministry update was just sent out so I won't repeat too much on that. We are enjoying our visits with new and old churches. Continue to pray for the Lord's provision of our needed monthly support. No new committments have been given at this time. Trusting Him for his amazing working in this great need.

Love & hugs to all!