Christmas Memories

 

Christmas is all about anticipation and we sure felt this as we were waiting for the Doctor to call on Christmas Eve to give us the go ahead to leave.  We had the car packed and were pacing around the apartment just holding our breath.  Then the call came and we couldn't help but all have huge smiles as we left. 

 

Headed for Home.....

 

What a great greeting Liss had prepared when we got home, a snowman and notes around the house and decorating her bedroom door.  I remember before this happened I had been complaining about things that needed to be fixed or updated in the house.  But I have to say as I walked through the front door my house was the most beautiful place I have ever been.  The tree lights were on, a candle was warming, the Christmas decorations all around and the Nativity on the piano.  I just couldn't stop looking at everything it just felt like my heart was finally at rest and content. 

 

Abbey was thrilled to see her room!  While she was away Randy had taken out the old carpet and replaced it with a healthy pad and carpet and also a new memory foam bed.  He also had the ducts and carpets cleaned.  Anything that he could do to make it a clean environment he did.  It was his way of using his extra energy when it was just a waiting game during the hospital stay.  

My parents and sister and her family from Preston were soon at our doorstep with Christmas Eve dinner.  They all gathered outside our front window and sang Christmas carols to Abbey.  It was so fun to see the pure joy on their faces as they looked in at Abbey and saw how well she was doing.

  

As soon as we had been released to the apartment Abbey had been concerned about getting her friends Christmas presents.  I told her I'm sure they will understand and not to be worried about it, but then I thought she needs to be able to do this and feel the Christmas spirit.  With a present given back to Abbey that night her friend had a card that said, "this year for Kyleigh's birthday instead of birthday presents she asked for donations to her good friend Abbey.  We love her and your family and are so glad that Abbey is doing better.  We will keep praying for her and your family. Thank you for your friendship.  Merry Christmas Love, The Traveller's"

Abbey's friends have been so amazing and she has felt their love and concern.  The first day we arrived at the apartment there was a package waiting from her friend this made the day even brighter.  I have heard of their fasts and prayers for Abbey and it is just amazing to think that young girls at this age are so in tune with the spirit, they are all going to do wonderful things!
She wants me to tell you all that she loves and misses you too!

I want to share a part of a letter written by Sister Abbott the Primary President in our ward to Abbey. 

"It doesn't seem fair to say this, however to ignore it would be a shame.  You have given each one of us a special gift through this trial you and your family are enduring at this time.  I have seen testimonies strengthened, faith increased, prayers answered, and charitable service given.  All this in our little primary and throughout our ward.  It has happened in other wards as well and in many members of the community.  It is amazing to see and feel the love of our Savior all around us.  We are grateful for your sacrifice in helping to build our Father's kingdom.  It is unfathomable the love He has for each one of His children.  We know He has a special place in His heart for you because you are still here with us.  It is truly miraculous! "

To say our Christmas was different than they usually are would be an understatement.  I only went shopping two times and I had no shopping done before we came here on November 25.  But it was the best!  We played games, laughed and talked about our feelings over what had happened in the last month.  We just can't say enough how we have been blessed by our Heavenly Father but we also know that often his blessings are given through promptings acted upon by others.  We are so thankful to all of you who have listened and been our angels.

As we were preparing to leave yesterday we were trying to stay positive knowing that each day that passes we are one more closer to being able to stay home.  It was still so sad to have to leave.  We knew of one last Christmas surprise from Abbey's friend Maddie.  During the time in the hospital we had encouraged Abbey to call her friend but she had been reluctant.  When they finally started talking to each other they just giggled and talked like no time had passed.  After she got off the phone she just started to cry and said that it was so good to talk to her best friend.  As Maddie gave Abbey her present it was just so fun to see how excited they were to see each other even if it was only for a few seconds.  As Abbey sat down to open the present I started to record it on my phone.  There was candy and socks in the bag and then a card.  As she opened the card and read what it said you can see pure joy, excitement and emotion overwhelm her.  The Jensen's had given Abbey a ticket to go with Maddie to see her favorite artist Taylor Swift!  

 

I have about wore out the recording watching it so many times!   Every few minutes she just keeps saying can you believe it, I'm going to see Taylor Swift!!! 
 Thanks Jennifer & Branden.

 

Love,
The Owens