Merry Christmas Grace and Ivan

Two years ago yesterday, our niece Grace was crossing a street out in Southern California with her violin, headed to play in a concert. In the split of a second a car ran into her at full impact. She suffered a very traumatic brain injury. She and her new husband Ivan had been married less than a year.

Most miraculous of all, Grace lived. God in His mercy said, "She will live."

Grace had been playing the violin since she was five years old. One could say it was her life and her heart's desire. She had attended the prestigious Eastman School of Music in New York State. She had
dedicated her time and efforts to constant practice. She performed at many concerts. She taught children to play.  Grace and Ivan were looking forward to a life of sharing their music talents with each other and others.

For two years this sweet girl has received countless hours of medical procedures, tests, and therapy.
She has fought the fight that many of us will never have to face. She has maintained a sweet spirit and happy countenance throughout it all. She writes of her struggles in her blog so we can be blessed with how God is bringing her along to His new normal for her and Ivan. She sees it all as from God and according to His will.  She struggles...she perseveres.  She is witty and smart.
God has given her back so much.

But...her left hand, the one she needs to play the violin, doesn't work any more.
All of her lifelong dreams and aspirations were changed late on a Saturday afternoon two years ago.
Amazingly, though, She is content with her life as it is,
God has done such a good work in her heart.
She has her amazing husband and family and friends.
She is prayed for and encouraged.
She is strong in Him. She is an inspiration.

I was in the attic just now getting some more of my Christmas Decorations.
The above picture fell out on the floor.
Grace sent it to us when she was a little girl.
Yes, Merry Christmas Grace and Ivan.
May God continue to bless you guys.
And you know...
Nothing is impossible with God.
I'll keep praying and watching what God is doing in your life.