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Our little Micahboo is turning 1 next Tues!  What a year it's been!  If you've ever had to take care of anyone with continual health difficulties, you know how much you are challenged to grow in character and also how much you cherish the moments spent together--whether it's the multiple middle of the night feedings, the delights of bath time, early morning snuggles, watching the loving interactions of Joel & Ellie with him, or the fun of trying and making a gigantic mess of those first foods!   And he is our last baby (at least, unless God has different plans!), so I really have tried to find true joy each stage!  I know facing eczema and food allergies (and kidney issues that he is supposed to outgrow) doesn't seem life threatening or that big of a deal, but when you already have other kids with food sensitivities to consider--it becomes quite the ordeal planning meals and snacks!  I am hoping and praying Micah will outgrow his allergy to eggs and peanuts, as those have been staple foods in this house for years.  Staying gluten free and mostly dairy free for Joel & Ellie has really seemed to help them out.  Thank the Lord there are so many great recipes and resources to tap into these days via the net and library!  Just now, I'm getting to a more well-rested state--so I may actually start being more creative in the kitchen again(=

Micah enjoys banging on things, picking up objects and dropping them, pushing things around, clapping his hands, checking out wheels, eating almost anything I put in front of him, drinking from a cup, rocking with mama and dada, nursing, his binky and 2 favorite blankies, going for rides in the stroller or car, tickles, bath time, listening to the sounds of birds, dogs, vehicles, and wind chimes when outside...and music.  His personality seems pretty calm and serious, but as soon as someone smiles or acts goofy he gets a little smirk that blossoms into a huge grin and little giggles.  He talks a little, but seems to be taking in a lot so far....and seems to understand our names and when I'm asking him if he wants a drink or to eat or diaper.  We are starting to teach him a few important signs...they were so helpful with Joel.  His eczema has improved so much over the last few months.  He has 5 teeth in and the 6th one is just popping through this week!  He was still waking up every 2 hours at night at 11 months (I tried my best to give him much grace in this area since he was so itchy and uncomfortable at night), so we decided it was best to guide him to more restful sleep.  Now he sleeps well from 8pm-4:30am...and after a 10-15 min nurse sleeps almost another 3 hours.  After a week, the better sleep seems to be helping his eczema issue improve more.  He naps like a champ now...usually clocking 2 naps that total at least 3-4 hours.  He is mama's boy for sure...which is fine with me for now!  All too soon, he will testing his wings and finding he enjoys a little more independence.

For his birthday, we'll celebrate with a picnic/BBQ with friends at the Navy base's campsite by the ocean near John's workplace.  I'm sure the kids will have a lot of fun.  Pictures to come!

Thanks for all who prayed for him (and us!) and supported us in so many ways over the last year or so.  We praise the Lord he suffered NO infections (skin or kidney), bad colds, flu, or injury (ok, besides the 1 Lego which seems to have gone through his system just fine LOL).  The worst of it has been the itchy eczema and occasional gassy tummy.  We will keep fighting for comfort for him.  The allergist thinks he will overcome the eczema issue in the coming year.  He will have a kidney ultrasound checkup the end of July to make sure he's outgrown his issue.  We have faith all is well!  He is a strong little guy!