God is so Good!!

It is 2:00 pm and today has been full of blessings and my heart is so content and happy.

A few days ago, we finally received a diagnosis for Noah and his hives.  He has heat and exercise induced hives and we have ruled out allergic reactions. If his body temperature passes above 99 degrees, he breaks out in hives.  That explains why he gets them running with friends, in the water, playing sports, etc.We are blessed to know this so that ... 1.) we do not continue to worry about underlying infections or irritations, 2). at some point in his life, he should out grow them, and 3.) we no longer need to keep him medicated (this has been the biggest blessing of all).  We have our son back.  His personality seemed altered from all the antihistamines, steroids, etc.  Lastly, we can shift to preventative treatments. If we know beforehand that he is going to be exercising or runs a risk of over heating, we can pre-treat with H2 blockers and antihistamines.  We can also encourage ice cold beverages, ice packs/wraps in a cooler before an event to help keep his body temperature below the 99 degree mark.  Even just one degree can make a difference.  It has been 3 days since he had hives last. :)

Today, my friend Kelly came to visit me from Keller and we had a great time at Penzey's Spice Shop and Tuesday Mornings.  Freshly ground spices, herbs and good friendship made for an amazing afternoon.

Grayson's speech.  This has been an issue for Gray since the beginning of the year.  He started with a one year speech delay.  Today - no real delay!  He is recognizing and clearly articulating numbers, letters, colors, animals, sea creatures, with a word for everything he sees.  Most people understand him the same as they would any other 2-year old!  We have prayed and worked hard with Gray and GOD is awesome! God is so GOOD!  I am looking forward to every moment I have with him to continue to teach him and help him grow.  I can see the excitement in his eyes when he knows he has said or done it right.

Anthony made it home safe and sound at 2:00am.  He had many delays in departing Chicago, but made it home to the delight of two very excited little boys this morning (and me too!)