Pass Home

 This morning, we were able to pick our girl up at 9 AM and bring her home for about 40 minutes. (We had to have her back by 11 AM on a 2 hour pass) It felt SO GOOD to have her home... like the missing piece to the puzzle of my aching heart was replaced for a time that was wonderful, but far too short. We also have passes tomorrow and Monday. Being together in a "normal" environment is such a gift. 

We've come a long way in the past few weeks. 

We've changed. All of us.

We still have the same address; same names....but our hearts have grown. We aren't the same people we were before climbing the mountains this year brought. The compassion we have for others, the preciousness of family, the kindness of community, our faith in God's promises are all more meaningful than ever. 

Peter and I are both headed back to work next week, which for me feels good and nerve-racking. It will feel glorious to live, at least one foot, in the world I am used to...and at the same time, our fight isn't over. The understanding and support of both of our work communities has been beyond what we could have ever expected. For that, we are unendingly grateful.

Now that Leah has achieved "Level 2" and "Passes", we hiking toward Level 3....which is the last step before we switch to intensive outpatient treatment. We don't know what that will look like yet, but it feels amazing to be making progress. Leah is fighting so hard and she is doing so well. We're insanely proud of her, and our other two kids for the support they've shown and the strength they've had as they've pulled even closer togther. We continue to covet your prayers and send our love.



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