Church Family

Have I ever mentioned how much we love our church family? The people of Union Baptist Church have been such a blessing to our family. The day before Ryan and Evan were born and I was admitted to the hospital people came to see me in droves. When I was transferred to Yale they were there. When the boys were born I don't think there was a moment when somebody from our church (and churches around the nation--literally) were not praying for us. They sent flowers and visited. I pretty much lived in New Haven the summer the boys were born and one family drove up on a regular basis--to New Haven--in rush hour traffic--to bring me a home cooked meal. The condo I stayed in that was walking distance to the hospital? Courtesy of a friend of a church member. They threw us a surprise baby shower that was out of this world! I still have things from our shower that I haven't used yet--18 months later! The biggest surprise was my grandmother, sister, and Cousin Betty were all in attendance. I'm telling you, they thought of everything.

One day, I was at the hospital and I was at my breaking point. I'm talking, I'm about to lose it, admit me to the psych ward right now breaking point! I went to the chapel to pray and my phone rang. Something told me to answer it and it was our pastor. How in the world did he know that I needed a word of encouragement right then at that very moment?

Their love and kindness have only continued since the boys have been home with us. This time last year the director of the children's choir brought the kids to sing Christmas carols to the boys through the window, since they knew we couldn't come outside and they couldn't come in. When we didn't bring the kids to church for months they didn't push and respected what we had to do, even though I'm sure they couldn't wait to see them.

We go to church every Sunday now, and their support starts as soon as I pull into the parking lot. The deacons save me a parking space, get the stroller out the truck, help strap the boys in, and insist on pushing them inside. If it's raining or is too cold, they let me pull to the front and get the boys out. They even park my car for me. Once we get inside, the church mommies step in.


Miss Ina is Ryan's church mommy, even though she loves her some Evan too! She brings yummy snacks that she knows they'll love and has the perfect spot for them when they need to run around.

Miss Laverne is Evan's church mommy, but I know Ryan has a special place in her heart too. Laverne is quick to go with me to the cry room when the boys need a break. She'll grab the diaper bag to change a diaper before I even realize they're wet.

Without these two, I don't think I would be able to come out to worship. On second thought...not true. There are many more mommies-in-waiting that I'm sure would come to my rescue at a moment's notice.

By the way, Ryan hates to take pictures now. Would you look at him?!

This one was taken immediately after Laverne put him down, though! Crocodile tears??

Even the kids get involved with the after service fun! When the boys were still in the hospital someone said to us that one day our babies would be running around Union in no time. Guess what happens every Sunday after church? God is awesome and I'm not talking about what I heard. I'm telling you what I know.


I know there are many church members who read our blog and I want you to know that we love and appreciate you. We are so very grateful to each and every one of you. Thank you for loving us and for loving Ryan and Evan.