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We had a really hard time picking names this time. Especially boy names. We really wanted the name to be significant and have meaning. It took us a long time to decide on Levi’s name. Joel decided about a month ago, but I wasn’t sure until the day he was born (that is pretty typical of the differences in our decision making skills!) But now we love the name. It is perfect for our sweet little boy.
When we added Levi to our list of boy names we started reading about who Levi was in the Bible and the meaning of the name. Levi means “joined”. That seemed fitting as our family has felt anything but joined since Cora went to heaven. We know that even though our family does not seem complete here on earth we will one day be joined together again in heaven. We can’t wait to tell Levi all about his big sister.
“And you will know that I have sent you this admonition so that my covenant with Levi may continue,” says the Lord Almighty. “My covenant was with him, a covenant of life and peace, and I gave them to him; this called for reverence and he revered me and stood in awe of my name. True instruction was in his mouth and nothing false was found on his lips. He walked with me in peace and uprightness, and turned many from sin.”
Malachi 2:4-6
We are praying these verses for our Levi. That he would grow to be a man who walks in uprightness and stands in awe of our Lord’s name.
Jerald is after Joel’s dad. Joel’s dad, Jerry, is one of the kindest, God-fearing men I know. He is a hard worker, is dedicated to serving the Lord in both his occupation and his every day life, and has such a servant’s heart. Anyone who knows Joel’s dad would understand why we would also want our son to have this name. Jerald is also the name of Joel’s great, great uncle, Joel’s grandpa, and is Joel’s middle name. We had to carry it on one more generation!
And here are a few more pictures of little Levi from the hospital.
Thank you so much for all your kind comments–we were overwhelmed!
We appreciate your prayers SO much.
We told Levi that he is famous already!
More pictures to come soon.
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  • Anonymous - Congratulations!!! He is beautiful and we are soooo happy for you!!! He has a wonderful mommy and daddy!! He is a VERY lucky little boy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Robin in Benton - May all of you continue to be blessed.!ReplyCancel

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  • Jen - He is beautiful!! And I LOVE his name! We always loved Levi too but since our last name starts with a “V”, it just didn’t go together.

    I pray God’s richest blessings on your sweet family. May your joys be many, your struggles few, and your transitions smooth and you welcome Levi home. God is good!ReplyCancel

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  • Stephanie Day - congratulations! levi is absolutely perfect and may he heal your hearts!ReplyCancel

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  • gabriel - Awww, what a wonderful lil family. I am so happy for you all. I love seeing an update from you and the inspiration you both are.ReplyCancel

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  • momof3 - You are absolutely right…Levi is famous and absolutely adorable! What a cute little brother Cora has! So happy for you all and yes, your family will be joined in eternity! So blessed…wishing you nothing but peace and love from here is snowy Iowa!ReplyCancel

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  • Kristin - What a beautiful baby boy! I love his name!!ReplyCancel

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  • starnes family - He is gorgeous. Just like you guys. EnjoyReplyCancel

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  • Anna - He’s so perfect! Congrats again!ReplyCancel

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  • Midwest Mommy - I have tears because I am so happy for you. He is adorable.ReplyCancel

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  • MICHELE - congrats he is beautiful, I mean handsome 🙂
    I am so happy that your arms are full once again!
    He has a great name to live up too! Mr. Mac was one of my favorite teachers! 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Kara - I love your choice of names- beautiful and a wonderful- PERFECT meaning.
    Enjoy these days of having a newborn!
    Prayers!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Levi is a beautiful, stunning actually, baby. And I am a Mum of 2 boys so Levi has a high bar to reach, and he is magnificent.
    I was relieved to see the crying photo because I was wondering how it was possible for a newborn to be this perfect. Perfect, he is truly perfect.
    There are so many “anniversaries” coming up for you and I praise God for His gift of Levi to fill your arms and hearts during these days ahead.
    Crazily, I (still) weep with emotion at his photos, a baby I will probably never be in the same room with, folks I will likely never meet and yet there is a place in my heart for you, a place touched by God through Cora and Levi, and you, their parents.
    Abundant blessings to you all.
    MercedesReplyCancel

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  • Jaclyn @ Love, Laughter, and Complete Chaos - He is just beautiful….its so great to see you get to have some “happy”.ReplyCancel

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  • The Scott's - Congratulations again…he’s beautiful! Looking forward to more pictures!!!ReplyCancel

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  • capperson - He is soo precious!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - He is so beautiful! You are such a blessing Levi.ReplyCancel

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  • Sherryl - He is absolutely perfect! So happy for you and Joel!ReplyCancel

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  • Trasie Bressler - Congratulations again! He is absolutely handsome and I think his name fits him perfectly! What a special little boy and with one amazing guardian angel.

    Many Blessings!ReplyCancel

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  • Nancy - He’s so handsome 🙂
    I don’t know you guys, but you are in my prayers & I’m so happy to be keeping up with your journey on your blog. Cora’s pictures are sooo beautiful. God bless you three!!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I love the name he is absolutely beautiful Cora is smiling down from heaven at her little brother I am sure. many more blessing to you all!
    Summer & Family in CaliforniaReplyCancel

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  • Caroline - His is beautiful. The name is great and I am sure it is fitting.
    Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Corinne Doughan - He is beautiful and SO blessed to be born into your covenant family! I pray that he grows up to be a mighty warrior for the LORD! Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Angie - So thrilled for you, Joel & Levi. He is one handsome little boy, and I am sure he will be in awe of his big sister as the rest of us are.

    Praying always!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations! My husband and I are so happy for you and Joel! Levi is beautiful! I am certain Cora is smiling down at you all….her wonderful family! We pray for you daily! May God continue to heal your hearts and shower you in his blessings!ReplyCancel

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  • Allison - What a BEAUTIFUL baby boy! His name is wonderful. Blessings as you enjoy getting to know your little man.ReplyCancel

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  • Todd and Courtney - This made my night as I am getting ready for bed. I thought Id check one last time to see if there were any new pictures 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Sherri - Congrats Joel and Jess! God’s mercies are so perfect! Praying for your precious family as a new journey indeed is beginning. With every bump, I pray that you may feel God’s grace reign down on you. Levi has a purpose. Fitting for your family only. I can’t wait to see what else God has in store for your wonderful family!ReplyCancel

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  • 3LittleByrds - He’s beautiful and yall look so in love with him. I’m sure Cora is watching over him. Congrats again. What a beautiful family you are.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Wow. You two produce BEAUTIFUL children. I’m sure you are having all sorts of mixed emotions when you hold him. I hope you are able to just feel love and know that by loving him you will never be taking anything away from sweet Cora. You and your family are in my prayers.ReplyCancel

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  • Marla Taviano - What a beautiful baby! Does he look like Cora at all when she was born? So excited for you guys!!ReplyCancel

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  • Heather | Cookie Mondays - amazing!ReplyCancel

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  • The Lundstroms - I found your blog through my sister-in-law and have followed your journey with tears for your loss, and joy for the baby you’ve been expecting. Levi is gorgeous, and I’m so happy for you and your family.ReplyCancel

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  • Krystal - Thanks for the new pix! I’m so glad this little guy got you for parents and Cora as a big sis to hear all about. I pray that God will bless Levi’s life and use him for His glory. Hugs in Christ!ReplyCancel

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  • Jen - He is SO beautiful!!! Thank you for sharing this with us! You are often close in heart & mind. Happy days to you!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Pamela - bless him …and you both.ReplyCancel

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  • amy - levi is beautiful. thanks for sharing pictures of him! 🙂
    hugs,
    amyReplyCancel

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  • Mindy M. Harris - Levi’s name and face are beautiful. May he spend his life making the Lord famous.
    xoReplyCancel

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  • Mom of 2 - I read your blog but have never commented. Your story inspires me.
    I am so happy for you- Levi is beautiful. I have 2 teen boys and feel I can go through anything thrown my way after watching your strength. Celebrate Levi- he will never replace Cora but will continue your journey into parenthood.
    Ottawa,CanadaReplyCancel

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  • Rebecca, Idaho - Welcome little Levi!ReplyCancel

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  • Meredith - Prayers are always with you!! I love the meaning of Levi’s name.ReplyCancel

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  • kaylin rose and mara anne - LOVE the name and thank you for sharing the story of how you came up with the name…I love hearing those stories.

    Hope you are enjoying that little sweet baby boy. Enjoy him.

    BlessingsReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - He is such a doll!!! Congratulations! Love his name too, and you look great for just having a baby.

    Anna from utahReplyCancel

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  • Patty - I pray that your arms and your lives feel full today as you hold your little one near. Congrats on the arrival of your little Levi.ReplyCancel

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  • Miss G - Little Levi is SOO cute! I really like his name too. It encouraged me that you weren’t sure till the day he was born. Today when people at work expressed such surprise that we don’t have names decided on yet it made me a little panicky. 🙂

    Jes, you look GREAT! Enjoy this time with your sweet new boy. KellyReplyCancel

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  • patti - what a blessing for your family. congrats on your sweet baby boy.ReplyCancel

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  • texasinafrica - He is beyond precious!!! Thank-you for sharing the significance of his name.ReplyCancel

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  • Dina - SO happy for you! He’s absolutely beautiful as is your family. God Bless you all:-)ReplyCancel

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  • Auntie Mip - Joel, Jess and Levi…

    Again I feel compelled to comment though I remain a complete stranger to you. I am a pediatric oncology nurse and have walked your journey with Cora with far too many families…I have been doing this for nearly 22 years. I stand in awe of your grace, humility and faithfulness…oh for my faith to be as strong and convicted as yours.

    Levi is breathtaking…I want you to know that people who know and love you completely understand that Levi’s arrival in your arms in know way means that you are “all better”. There is know replacing Cora. There is no forgetting Cora. But I do believe with equal conviction that God has rewarded your faithfulness with this most precious gift. I have told countless parents that God carefully chooses who will love His babies on earth. He made such a beautiful and perfect choice for Cora and now with Levi.

    Congratulations on this precious boy!ReplyCancel

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  • Abby - You are so blessed! Enjoy that little man and take advantage of the naps! ;o)ReplyCancel

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  • cupcakefitz - What a wonderful and beautiful verse to inspire a name for your son. Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • tinycandi - what a precious little man! congratulations! and i love his name. 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Lauren - A baby boy is a precious gift. Mine is a kissy face little snuggler who love to eat dirt. Precious.

    I think the name Levi is perfect.

    I also think it’s fitting that Cora’s shop is always full of frilly girly dresses and now she has a little brother for you to start making things for.

    Blessings. Blessings. Blessings abound.ReplyCancel

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  • gwswenson - Amen!ReplyCancel

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  • Elizabeth - I have been reading for almost a year and have never commented, but I wanted to tell you how happy I am for all three of you and how blessed this little boy is. Thank you for sharing your faith and love with all of us!ReplyCancel

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  • Kylie and crew. - Sooooooooo happy for you. A mighty man of God he will be!!ReplyCancel

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  • Shauna - Congratulations! He is gorgeous!ReplyCancel

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  • Lexie Loo & Dylan Too - I love his name!
    He is a beautiful baby!ReplyCancel

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  • Andolicious - I love the name Levi. He is a beautiful baby boy. I love the first picture of him. He is so lucky to have you as his parents!ReplyCancel

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  • The Browns - I’m so happy for ya’ll! He is so beautiful 🙂 I just had a baby boy on December 21st & he’s sitting in my arms right now. I feel so blessed & I know you do too. Lots of love to ya’ll.

    BonnieReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - He is BEAUTIFUL! And now your arms are full! I LOVE the name!ReplyCancel

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  • Ohtobebeautiful - He is so beautiful! What a gift to be named after someone who means so much to you all. Can’t wait to see more pictures of all of you 😉ReplyCancel

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  • Christine S. - Jess and Joel,

    Congratulations again! I cry tears of joy for you as I look at the beautiful pictures of you with your baby boy! He’s absolutely precious!! So happy for you and your family. God has his arms wrapped around all of you!ReplyCancel

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  • singing mama - Awwwww he is so beautiful! Praying as always!
    Luv DonnaReplyCancel

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  • Stef - THRILLED you posted more pictures and I’m getting the biggest kick seeing you both with a baby in your arms. Praise be to God, for HIS perfect and kind mercies. They are new every morning!!
    Enjoy going home and getting acquainted to life together. I think Levi already looks much like his big sister and his name is quite handsome. I love it.ReplyCancel

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  • Trudy - Perfect in every way! Thank you for sharing your inspiring story with us. A name means so much – you truly got it right!ReplyCancel

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  • Gail - Beautiful baby! Those are the same verses that we chose our Levi’s name from, and the verses that we’ve prayed for him. Love them! Thanks for the pictures.ReplyCancel

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  • Mormishmom - He’s totally famous and totally beautiful. I’ve followed your blog since Julie @ Joy’s Hope posted about your story. My heart is overflowing with joy at your happy news. Our Heavenly Father’s love for you is truly manifest in your tiny new miracle.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Thanks for all the new pictures! So beautiful! And I must say that especially the last one, with Levi enjoying his pacifier and showing his gorgeous eyes, he looks so much like Cora! It is so wonderful to see you cuddling this sweet bundle of joy! Blessings galore to you all!
    Praying for you from Washington, LuannReplyCancel

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  • Vashti - He is scrummy. Congratulations.
    God bless.ReplyCancel

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  • Kristin - What an insanely beautiful baby boy! Levi is already a great name, but now hearing the meaning and the verse that you quoted, it is so fitting! Congratulations, again!ReplyCancel

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  • Miriam - I loved his name when you posted on the 2nd, but hearing the meaning behind his name makes it all that more special.

    He is a beautiful boy and I’m so happy for this joyous event.

    Can’t wait to hear more about your journey with Levi.ReplyCancel

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  • Sue - I have tears in my eyes! You guys look so happy, it’s hard to believe you’ve had such a bumpy year. 2010 has started off beautifully and I just know that it’s going ot be a wonderful year for you all. And I know you’re both going to treasure every moment of this extra special journey with little Levi (gorgeous name, by the way!). I know this must also be an emotional time and I’m thinking about you all the time! So glad you’re back to blogging already and thanks for the photos, I can’t wait to see more! Sue xReplyCancel

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  • Diana - Ohhhhhh, he is ADORABLE!!
    His name fits him PERFECTLY!!
    And that is such a WONDERFUL
    photo of the three of you TOGETHER…
    JOINED here on earth at this moment…
    and later in Heaven with CORA!

    Peace, love and many prayers! ♥ReplyCancel

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  • Keilani - I am so happy to see these pictures of your family. Baby Cora is jumping for joy in Heaven with the arms of our Heavenly Father! What an inspiration your family is! Many blessing and hugs!ReplyCancel

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  • Amber - Congratulations! Levi is precious and so handsome! Praising the Lord with you for a healthy baby boy.ReplyCancel

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  • Jessica K. - Congratulations!! He must be the most beautiful little boy I have ever seen! His little face is precious!!!
    I LOVE the name! I have a list of names since I can think and if I were to miraculously get pregnant with a boy now his name would be Levi Gabriel. I just love that name!!

    I will keep your family in my prayers! Levi has a little angel watching over him and his parents! She will never be forgotten!

    Much love from Germany..

    JessiReplyCancel

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  • Melissa - Just amazing. God is who he says he is…praying for peace and for you to thoroughly enjoy every minute of your new little man!ReplyCancel

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  • Mommy2QTPies - Aw, congratulations on your sweet baby Levi! He’s precious…ReplyCancel

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  • Mandi @ It's come to this - He is beautiful! And I just love the meaning behind is name!!! Still praying for your family.ReplyCancel

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  • Melinda - He is beautiful! I love your name choice – such a wonderful meaning behind it. I wish your family the very best.ReplyCancel

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  • k and c's mom - Praise God from Whom all blessings flow!
    Thanks for sharing the pics of little Levi.
    He is beautiful (handsome!) and you are all blessed.ReplyCancel

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  • Mum2twopreciousgifts - Thanks for taking the time to post about Levi’s name. I know you will be busy, busy, busy with a newborn in your home but we, in blog land, will looked forward to your updates.

    Good night from Australia!

    MichelleReplyCancel

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  • Emma and Company - He is gorgeous!! Congratulations!! I love the significance of his name…what a lucky little boy to join your wonderful family! God Bless!ReplyCancel

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  • Maria - He’s beautiful! You guys are so sweet together. Congratulations. Enjoy that new baby smell:)ReplyCancel

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  • Joyce - Enjoy your sweet beautiful boy…I love the verses behind the name.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations on your beautiful baby boy! May God bless your family!

    JenniferReplyCancel

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  • Jane In The Jungle - What a cutie!!!!

    And Girl….welcome to the world of boys, LOL!!ReplyCancel

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  • Brittany - he is beautiful! and you look great too, mama!

    blessings,
    brittanyReplyCancel

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  • Courtney Cloud - Congratulations! He is so beautiful. He looks so much like you Jess. I am praying daily for y’all. I know that it must be so bittersweet. I am praying for God’s amazing Love and His wonderful Presence to be close to you in the coming days and weeks.
    Love to you from Alabama.ReplyCancel

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  • Amanda - What a beautiful baby boy! Congratulations and my continued prayers are with you all!ReplyCancel

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  • Heidi - BEAUTIFUL pictures of your sweet little boy. THANK YOU so much for sharing them with us. GOD BLESS your family.ReplyCancel

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  • onlymehere - I love the meaning of both of his names. He truly is a beautiful baby and I’m so happy for you and your family!ReplyCancel

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  • Just Beachy - Levi is a beautiful boy and lucky to have such a loving family , I hope you enjoy this time with some more healing , it would be nice if you make a book about Cora for him ??.ReplyCancel

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  • Miranda - He is absolutely adorable!! So so precious! Congrats again. .love his name and that it has so much meaning.ReplyCancel

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  • Brian, Angie, Matt, Tim, and Meredith - Beautiful family! I see resemblences to Cora…in his eyes, I think(?). Great name; and you’ll have to hunt down a baby pair of Levi jeans for the little man! 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Jessica - Congratulations! He is absolutely beautiful – and compliments both of you!ReplyCancel

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  • Jennifer - Levi is absolutely beautiful and I love his name and the meaning of it. I continue to pray for peace and comfort for you because I know that no one will ever take Cora’s place. You have 2 beautiful children! It is such peace to know that God is sovereign. Continue to love Jesus and live for Him. Thank you for being a blessing in my life. Some sweet day you will join Cora in heaven and I will do the same with Kyler. Until then, let’s continue praising our loving, faithful Father and doing His work here. Love and hugs to you all!
    JenniferReplyCancel

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  • lauren - A precious baby boy for a precious family! God bless you!ReplyCancel

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  • Team Alix - Thanks for sharing him with us- he is gorgeous and your name choices are perfect!!ReplyCancel

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  • Kristen - God bless your precious little boy! 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Krystal - Yay baby pictures!!! He is soooo pretty! And has a beautiful, strong name! Congrats again!ReplyCancel

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  • i love plum - as precious as can be! xoReplyCancel

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  • Kristi REDISKE - What a beautiful baby boy with a beautiful name with so much meaning. I have been checking your blog everyday for an update so I was so excited to see more pictures. I am still praying for you-you are so inspiring to others-God Bless You.ReplyCancel

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  • susy - My husband and I have always wanted children. We have prayed to the Lord for at least one child but it is not in God’s plans for us. Although I never had children, your journey with Cora felt so close to home. To loose someone you love so much or to loose someone you never had but wanted so much. Levi Jerald is as much a part of you as all of us. We prayed for his safe arrival and good health and rejoice in the Lord of what a precious gift he is. He is very lucky to have you both as parents and Cora as a big sister. I can’t wait to see him playing in her playground. God Bless you all.ReplyCancel

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  • Brittany - He is simply beautiful. The third picture gets me every time…he’s perfection. What a blessing! Welcome Levi!

    Love and Prayers from KY,
    BrittanyReplyCancel

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  • Vonda - Checked in today to see if the baby had been born. Congratulations! I love the name and he is beautiful.ReplyCancel

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  • Megan DiVito - He is just beautiful! I am so happy for you guys. One day, he will be able to play at his sister’s playground!ReplyCancel

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  • The Hopkins Home - I had tears reading the verse from Malachi – what an appropriate name for your little guy! He is just BEAUTIFUL and I am so happy for the both of you – enjoy him!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Kelli - I love his name and it the significance in it’s meaning!! He is just beautiful and I’m praying for your family!!ReplyCancel

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  • Nicole - He is beyond precious! So happy for you and your family.ReplyCancel

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  • Katina - He is sooo handsome!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Anna Marie - He is beautiful!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Claudia - What a precious one and his name is perfect, just like him!!

    Congratulations again and blessings to your sweet family!ReplyCancel

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  • Dena - God’s blessings!!!ReplyCancel

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  • The Gunter Family - He is just ADORABLE!!! Oh my!
    I continue to pray for your family!ReplyCancel

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  • La Familia Garcia - Congratulations! He’s beautiful! And love the name!ReplyCancel

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  • KK - It never ceases to amaze the blending of 2 people into a new little person. Levi looks so much like both of you. His name fits perfectly. Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Annie Thompson - Levi and his name are so beautiful! I am praising God for you guys and for his birth. Congratulations on the birth of this gorgeous little Man of God!!ReplyCancel

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  • Lauren Kelly - Absolutely precious!!!! So happy for ya’ll 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Ashley - Congratulations! Levi is so very handsome! I’m so happy for you and I pray blessings over you and your family!!ReplyCancel

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  • Tara - he is so adorable!!! i love the name that you chose. [and the verses]. what a sweet, little blessing!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - He is so precious! I love the name and the meaning behind it. You are right – you will be “joined” as a family in heaven some day! Levi has a very special angel looking over him. God bless.ReplyCancel

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  • Mallory - I LOVE the name Levi, and I love that Jerald has such a huge family connection. You two are just glowing with happiness in the photos, despite the fact that I know you still miss Cora so much. I am SO happy for you! And Levi is BEAUTIFUL!!ReplyCancel

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  • Karina - Levi is indeed lovely. In that last photo, I can see Cora’s eyes. How bittersweet.

    I agree with the poster who said she has two boys and still finds Levi beautiful; I have two boys myself and even though they are the most beautiful children in the world to me, I could happily take Levi home with me!

    I also have a little girl almost exactly Cora’s age, which is the main reason I come back to “visit” you almost daily – you are my constant reminder that I am lucky to have my precious children with me where I can love and hold them.

    Congratulations again, Jess and Joel, on your new son.ReplyCancel

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  • CourtneyC - Aww, he is just precious!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Wow — in that last picture his eyes look just like Cora’s! He is a doll. Congrats from Texas!ReplyCancel

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  • Al's World - What a perfect name for a perfect little boy…I am praying that he brings laughter and joy back into your home..God Bless!ReplyCancel

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  • Rachel - Congratulations! Levi is so cute!!Many blessings and prayers for all of you 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - What a beautiful name for such a beautiful little boy! Thank you so much for the update and the new pictures. It is so nice to see you all together, and even though Cora is not there physically, she is part of each and every one of you, always. Congratulations again!

    JaclinReplyCancel

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  • Rach - Very beautiful that you took such consideration in choosing Levi’s name. What a wonderful meaning it has. Many blessings.ReplyCancel

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  • Kristin Stegent - He is absolutely precious! He looks some like Cora I think. I love his name and how you chose it. You are a beautiful little fam!ReplyCancel

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  • Toni :O) - Oh my, he is just adorable you two! You did SO good. Cora would be SO proud as a big sister! I hope these first few days have been absolutely wonderful and fun for you…nothing but great joy is wished upon and prayed for you all. Big hugs and thanks for sharing him with all of us, I couldn’t be more happier for you and those pics just made me grin from ear to ear!ReplyCancel

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  • Cyndi - He is sooooo cute! Congrats!ReplyCancel

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  • Kelly - He’s a beautiful boy! And his name is full of wonderful meaning! I love that! Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Grace Halsey - This is wonderful! Praise the Lord for His hand of blessing upon you in this new year. It is encouraging to read your blog!ReplyCancel

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  • Molly - He’s just gorgeous! My nephew’s name is also Levi! It’s a good strong name. I am praying for you during this time. It must be so beautiful and so hard at the same time. But Cora is there. She is with you. He is with you. You are all “joined” in the Lord.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I haven’t posted in quite sometime but I just had to say how adorable baby Levi is!! I am so happy for you as you begin this new journey. I have 3 wonderful little boys and each of them are such a blessing 🙂 Keeping you in my prayers,

    JoannaReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - He is Beautiful..Such a precious sweet new life! Love the pictures and your posts! Thank you for sharing your new journey with us blog stalkers 🙂

    KimReplyCancel

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  • Heather - Oh, congrats and God Bless your family! He is just beautiful!ReplyCancel

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  • Drew, Taylor, and Caroline Clayton - OMG…You need to post a side by side of Levi and Cora(at his age)I think they have the exact same eyes 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Staci - Congratulations on your precious little Levi. I love that name 🙂 I’m sure his big sister Cora is so proud of her baby brother as well.ReplyCancel

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  • Shannon - Oh my goodness–he is absolutely beautiful! And I love the meaning of his name. What a beautiful blessing!ReplyCancel

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  • Falling Around - That boy is SO stinkin’ cute, you guys!

    LOVE the picture of Jess kissing his head – makes me cry. What a blessed little baby to have such amazing parents.

    XOXOReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - We love the pics! Thanks for taking time out of your crazy day to post them. We are going to come visit that guy hopefully soon. He’s the cutest!!!! AndiReplyCancel

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  • Allen and Debby Graber - The meaning of the name Levi is so precious and I love the verses you are praying for him. And we agree that Joel’s Dad is one of the kindest and God-fearing men we know! What a privilege for our children to have him as their teacher! Hope you bring Levi to Bible study with you soon!!ReplyCancel

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  • eeguiltner - Congratulations Jess and Joel. We are very happy for you and wish you the best as you begin this new journey.
    ~Erin & Clay GuiltnerReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - What a BEAUTIFUL boy! I love the name Levi! You know what else is great about the name? If you play with the letters, you spell “LIVE”!
    This baby will help you heal and will help you LIVE YOUR LIFE as Cora would have wanted for her precious Mommy, Daddy and baby brother! Thank you for keeping the blog… you make me smile on days I really need it. You help me remember the simple things in life.ReplyCancel

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  • waiting - He is precious in every sense of the word. So happy for you and your whole family!ReplyCancel

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  • Enos Family - He is absolutely BEAUTIFUL! A perfect little baby. So happy for you guys!
    Best wishes and blessings.ReplyCancel

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  • Sincerely, Stephnie - Beautiful Family….all 4 of you.ReplyCancel

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  • A - Can’t wait for more pictures- and I love his name and all the meanings it holds. I’ll continue to pray for your family!ReplyCancel

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  • Melissa - He is beautiful! I love the family pic.ReplyCancel

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  • Shuggamom - Congratulations !!!!
    Levi is a handsome and beautiful doll !!!! I think he is already smiling in the first picture. I know Joel’s dad is so honored that Levi was named after him,that was so thoughtful and caring.
    All the pics are so good and clear,yall look amazing and joyful.
    Cant wait to see more beautiful pictures of yall !!
    Please kiss those sweet cheeks !!

    He is truly a very blessed little boy !!

    Love,
    Stacey
    Atlanta,TXReplyCancel

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  • Amy Bell - oh…he is wonderful….so precious. i am so excited for you all…i love the meaning of his name…enjoy this wonderful time getting to know him!ReplyCancel

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  • Natalie - Wow he is a beautiful little boy, with a beautiful family! Congratulations!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Nancy - congratulations on your beautiful baby boy!ReplyCancel

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  • Lindsay - love his name! He is beautiful and I’m in awe of our God and thank Him for your testimony.ReplyCancel

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  • jandkland - He is completely gorgeous. I can’t fathom what this is like for you, but praise God for making all things new! Cora surely gave little man a big kiss before he came to you. (:

    –Kelley in GAReplyCancel

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  • Melissa - He is absolutely lovely!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Gorgeous – he is just gorgeous! Little babies are proof that God is so good. Looking at Levi just melts my heart. Congrats!ReplyCancel

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  • MaryBeth in PA - Beautiful words and pictures … they brought tears to my eyes. So so happy for you and wishing you peace, love, and happiness. And what a special sister little Levi has.ReplyCancel

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  • Lindsay - My heart is just filled with joy for you all.ReplyCancel

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  • Brooke - I am so glad to see your arms full again. Love from Baltimore!ReplyCancel

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  • Something In The Glass - Levi will do wonderful things, there is no doubt, with such strong and faithful parents. Congratulations to your family. Cora must be so proud!ReplyCancel

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  • Hair Bows & Guitar Picks - He is so so cute! What a beautiful name for a beautiful little guy!ReplyCancel

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  • meg duerksen - great! now i may have to jump in my car and risk my life on these icy roads just to get to baby levi!!! i just want to kiss him all day!ReplyCancel

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  • Mama Sons - Congrats! I am so happy for you. Love hte name too. We were going to name our little boy that until we found out it was a girl!ReplyCancel

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  • Polka Dot Moon - He’s precious! Love and joy to you all!ReplyCancel

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  • Beki - TheRustedChain - He is just completely perfect!

    I am so happy for you guys.

    Love you and still praying for you!ReplyCancel

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  • DianeTaylor - Long time lurker of your blog but I finally had to come out of hiding and comment…..I am SO HAPPY for you both! I adore the name Levi – Cora would love it too. God bless you all – may the light of God’s love shine on you always.
    The Taylors from Baltimore MDReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - adorable!ReplyCancel

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  • Sue - Wow….what a beautiful baby boy Levi is. He is blessed to have you both for his parents. I have been praying for all of you!ReplyCancel

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  • Barbara - He is absolutely precious!! Congratulation on another gorgeous baby!!ReplyCancel

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  • Christine - Oh, he’s just so incredibly precious! What a perfect name for this blessed child of God! I think of you so often and pray all is well in your sweet family as you get settled in with your new baby boy.ReplyCancel

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  • Micah - I love the thought that you put into Levi’s name. That is so, so special. He is such a handsome little guy. What a beautiful family you have.ReplyCancel

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  • Ruthie - Might I say, that just like Cora, your son is absolutely STUNNING! What a cutie pie, and I love how you shared why you named him Levi Jerald. How special! Praying you recup quick quickly and that God gives you grace and strength for these next few newborn months.

    RuthieReplyCancel

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  • The Mershawn's - Wish I could come squeeze that boy! He is so precious.
    Happy birthday little Levi. What an awesome man you’re parents are praying you to be.ReplyCancel

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  • katydid_KS - “It is no small thing when they, who are so fresh from God, love us.”ReplyCancel

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  • Ashley - Congratulations on your sweet Levi – it is so wonderful to see prayers answered. I have been praying for blessings and joy for you and your husband since the loss of Cora. I’m so thankful for God’s faithfulness to all of us! Enjoy your perfect little boy.ReplyCancel

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  • Courtney - He is beautiful. Congratulations to you all.
    CourtneyReplyCancel

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  • The Call's - Congratulations! Levi is darling! I am sure Cora is rejoicing in heaven that her baby brother made it to earth safe and sound.ReplyCancel

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  • Anna - Congratulations to the both of you, he is beautiful. I am so happy for your family!ReplyCancel

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  • Heather C - Congratulations! What a precious gift from the Lord! 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • MomMom - What a handsome little baby boy and I love his name. How nice that you gave him such a meaningful name—both of them. I’m sure his grandfather is honored to have his grandson named after him. So thankful that Levi is here safe and sound. Enjoy!!ReplyCancel

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  • Paula Aspacher - this boy, just might look like his daddyReplyCancel

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  • The Klins Family - I bet Cora gave Levi a great big hug and kiss before he was born, knowing that you soon would be cuddling him in your arms! He is an angel – congratulations.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations to you both on your beautiful little boy! Many blessings to you all.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - He is beautiful! Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Joy - Congrats! I’ve been praying for you guys and love reading your blog. Thanks for sharing what you do. It’s very encouraging.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Blessings for Levi

    Carol H
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  • Jerri - A-D-O-R-A-B-L-E! God Bless and protect you each and everyone!ReplyCancel

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  • mrstolli - Congratulations! He is absolutely precious! You are in my prayers!ReplyCancel

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  • Sarah Furlough - I know Levi will never replace Cora, but I hope he brings you joy for the rest of your days! What a sweet, sweet blessing!ReplyCancel

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  • Andrea B. Houston, TX - Congrats on your beautiful baby boy. I’m sure Cora is smiling down on him. May god bless you and your family.ReplyCancel

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  • Matt and Nicole - Congratulations! We’re very happy for you! I agree with your comments about Mr. Mac. I wasn’t surprised at all that you wanted to carry on his name!ReplyCancel

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  • Heather - Oh man you guys i think he looks like Joel!! How great..he is precious!

    Love loveReplyCancel

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  • Holli Taylor - he’s the best of both of you…how precious! Congrats again.ReplyCancel

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  • Townsend Crew - “Heaven is the sound of him breathing deep
    Lying on my chest, falling fast asleep while I sing
    And Heaven is the weight of him in my arms
    Being there to keep him safe from harm while he dreams…”

    Thinking about you and your fantastic visit from Heaven here on Earth!!!

    Love from LaGrange, ILReplyCancel

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  • Whimsical Creations - He is just precious!ReplyCancel

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  • Susie from Bienvenue - He is just BEAUTIFUL!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I couldn’t be happier for you! He is adorable, what a good sized little baby! Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Allison - He is absolutely beautiful! I am so happy for y’all! I am sure Cora is smiling down from Heaven. Levi will always have her watching over him. I wish she were here with you. Praying for you and Joel….ReplyCancel

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  • Celine - Awesome pictures! What an adorable little boy. You look fantastic too!ReplyCancel

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  • Michelle - He is beautiful! Enjoy!ReplyCancel

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  • tiggerjd3 - Levi is so beautiful!! Thanks for posting some pictures. Even though I do not know you personally, you and your family have a special place in my heart. I have continued to pray for you. All of your words have been an inspiration. It is so nice to find a caring and loving person in this world that shares their love of GOD with us. GOD will continue to bless you!!ReplyCancel

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  • Missy - he’s so adorable!!!!!!!!! and i love his name 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Amy - He is beautiful! And his name is perfect!ReplyCancel

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  • grace - What a sweet little guy… you all look wonderful! Praying for you and yours!ReplyCancel

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  • Jessica - He is beautiful. Congratulations.ReplyCancel

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  • Wibeche - HE IS SO ADORABLE:)

    WIB.ReplyCancel

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  • Kimberly - He is beautiful! Congratulations! You and your family are always in my thoughts and prayers!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Aubre's Creative Cakes - I have been following your story since the death of your sweet girl. I have tears of joy seeing you and your new sweet boy. I am so happy for you both, you deserve this joy. Congratulations!!! God is so good.ReplyCancel

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  • Lauren - Congratulations! I haven’t ever commented but have followed your blog for a while now. You all are such an encouragement. If you can stay focused on God through all that has happened then I certainly can in my daily life. Thank you for being who you are and for being strong. God Bless you and thank you.ReplyCancel

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  • Baylee and Blair's page - Congrats! He is JUST gorgeous!

    Hugs – TiffanyReplyCancel

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  • Megan Noel - he’s beautiful jess. sometimes i don’t comment on your blog cause there’s hundreds for you to sort through, but i’m always reading. love you.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - HE is SOOOO GORGEOUS!!!! 🙂 I don’t even remember how I came across your blog months ago but I’ve been praying for your precious family ever since!!! I’m celebraing along with you and will continue to pray for you all!!
    Sending Hugs from IN,
    LauraReplyCancel

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  • Sarah - Congratulations! He is the most beautiful baby boy in the world…I’m sure you think so too! Stick your nose in that little neck and drink up that baby smell for me…that’s the best part isn’t it?ReplyCancel

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  • ~Katie - He is soooo CUTE. He looks a lot like his beautiful sister! Congratulations!!!ReplyCancel

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  • amy - He’s perfect! God Bless you all!ReplyCancel

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  • The Schilling's from Cimarron - CONGRATS! I wanted to pick up the phone and call, but then remembered how it is with a new little one….. talking on the phone is the last thing you would want to do….. WOW he is beautiful! love the little cheeks! We love the name and the meaning behind it….. I just want to hug you all! I cried with JOY the minute you posted all about him. We still pray for you daily and know you are headed once again for a wonderful journey! we love you and miss you all! Please take care and give those little cheeks a kiss from us!

    love always,

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  • Anonymous - congratulations, baby levi is beautiful. boys can be beautiful 🙂 your cora has really touched me; i check in on you all now once in a while. praying for peace and joy for you all! god blessReplyCancel

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  • Just the Two of US - I love reading your blog!! Congrats!! You are blessed once again!ReplyCancel

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  • Natalie Powers - Congrats!!! So happy for you!! Love his name. 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Christina Egner - OOOOOOOO in the last picture….. Levi’s eye color is the same exact as Cora’s. SO SWEET!ReplyCancel

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  • Shelly Primm - I love how you got his name! Again, congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations! I have followed you from blog hopping for about a year. I don’t have my own blog but am addicted to others’. We don’t know each other but I have thought of you and your family so many times and am so happy for you. Take care.

    Sincerely,
    Patti H.
    Livonia, MichiganReplyCancel

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  • Dear Abbi - Oh my goodness, he is SO precious!! I love him and would like very much to kiss those little cheeks. He is very sweet! Congrats to you all! I love the name Levi, too…especially for the meaning. It has always been one of our favorites! I am so happy for you all!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - May God bless your precious little family. Levi is a gift from God to bring back your joy, to restore your faith in life. You will feel Cora as you love and care for her brother. Honor her and look ahead. She is pure love. Everything will be fine. All of you are in our thought and prayers. Let your heart feel joy. All is well.

    Love,
    Margaret, Virginia BeachReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - You are a beautiful family! Children are such blessings…know you miss Cora even more right now so I am praying for you. I’ve been following your blog for awhile and especially through this pregnancy. You and I had our babies merely hours apart! 🙂 Congratulations and enjoy that little love as I know you will.ReplyCancel

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  • carollai - congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Amber - How amazing!!! Congrats on your new arrival! Levi is adorable!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Levi is beautiful, and I love the story of his name.

    DebReplyCancel

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  • mEET - beau-ti-ful!!!!! congrats!ReplyCancel

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  • Kirsten - What a blessing to have a beautiful baby boy. I pray for you all often and can’t wait to watch Levi’s story unfold. The Lord has big plans for this little guy!!ReplyCancel

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  • Christina - My parents were in town and I took a blogging break, but have been anxious to come back and see what new things you had about your sweetest addition! I love so much his name and the meaning…it’s beautiful. Names are important. They can tell such a story. In between our second and our youngest I had two miscarriages…the closer the end of my fifth pregnancy came (that sounds so weird to say, when you only have three children) the more serious we got about a name. We knew it was a girl, and of course were drawn to particular ones. Many got the boo from others, or the weird-eye. 🙂 We finally came across the name Eliana, which means “the Lord responds” and we knew that was the one! Thank you for continuing to share your journey. Your little man is so darling. The black and white of Jess and Levi is lovely.ReplyCancel

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  • Princess Martha - Congrats to you both! He is simply gorgeous. I am so so happy for you. xxReplyCancel

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  • Kari Jenkins - What a beautiful little boy! Your story and strength continue to inspire me. Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Stephanie @ and noah makes five - Congrats and he is beautiful. I’m so happy for your family!ReplyCancel

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  • Sarah - He is BEAUTIFUL!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Kelly @ The Beauty of Sufficient Grace - Your Levi is just beautiful! Rejoicing with you…continuing in prayer…ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - i will be thinkin of u and breathin a prayer for u all over the next few days…i m sure it is a difficult time-just thinking of all u were going thro at this time last year!! What would we do without God and His grace in moments like these??? Levi is so handsome-hope u are feeling well physically. Lena StoltzfusReplyCancel

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…with a sweet little boy.
Levi Jerald
Janaury 2, 2010
1:31pm
8 lbs 8 oz
20 1/4 inches
Posted in: Uncategorized
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Leave a comment

  • jen christians - Welcome Levi! Love his name… Love the sweet picture of him and his daddy. I know that Cora is rejoicing in heaven. God bless you on this new journey!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations!
    Tears of joy welled up in my eyes seeing the photo, I am so filled with happiness for you.
    A son, unto you a son is given.
    A new year, a new life, a renewed faith.
    Thank you and God Bless you for sharing your journey and your joy.
    MercedesReplyCancel

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  • kace - Congratulations!! He is beautiful:)ReplyCancel

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  • Kathryn Moors - Congratulations and best wishes as you embark on this wonderful new journey. Levi is incredibly blessed already to have been born into such an amazing family. Welcome to the world, Levi! GOD IS GOOD!!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations what a great news, I’m so happy for you and Joel.

    EldaReplyCancel

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  • Kendall Smith - Beautiful boy!!!! We can’t wait to see him grow big and strong. And shower him with Cubs gear. 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Marc, Sarah, and Luke - Yay — a little boy!!!! Congratulations!!!! Marc said this evening, “I guess Joel won’t make it to investment club tomorrow.” (Leave it up to President Marc to figure that one out). But seriously, we’re very happy and excited to hear about Levi’s birth….Get some rest. Enjoy little Levi.ReplyCancel

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  • Amanda - Okay, so I held back tears several times in the hospital today – but the are flowing now! Levi is fearfully and wonderfully made – by an awesome awesome God. He is seriously SOOOO stinkin cute – I could have held and loved on him all day! Love you guys so much and love little Levi too!ReplyCancel

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  • Amanda - oh yeah Jess, I meant to tell you when I saw you – you look amazing! So so beautiful!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - May your New Year be blessed with much happiness! He is precious!! Congratulations!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Wow, what a beautiful moment captured! What an amazing way to start your New Year. Congratulations to you both, I am so very happy for you. I am certain Cora is watching over all of you, loving you and smiling down on her new little brother! Levi is blessed to have his very own personal Guardian Angel to walk through life with him, guiding and protecting him! Cora will never be forgotten, as she lives within each of you, and in your continued journey here on Earth! God Bless all of you! Big Hus and Smiles!

    Jaclin

    P.S. Jess, you look amazing for having just had a baby!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - He is precious! Congratulations!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Amber Handy - I am so, so happy for you. I’ve been following your blog for quite a while and am so inspired by you. Enjoy that little boy – he is beautiful!ReplyCancel

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  • Ashley - Congrats! What a handsome, sweet boy!! Blessings to you all as you start this new journey with Levi!!ReplyCancel

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  • The Bounds Family - Congrats!!! Levi is beautiful!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Welcome beautiful Levi! Congratulations! what wonderful parents he has been blessed with!

    KimReplyCancel

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  • Lisa - I’m always lurking but had to comment this time. I am so happy for yall! Congratulations!!!! He is beautiful.ReplyCancel

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  • The Carroll's - I have been checking your blog like crazy over the past few days! Congratulations on little Levi- what a blessing. Praying for you all as you bring your sweet boy home. Thanks for sharing with us!ReplyCancel

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  • forever folding laundry - Congratulations!! Little Levi is adorable. What a perfect New Year blessing!

    ~KeriReplyCancel

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  • Schneider Family - What a precious gift that only our amazing God could give! We will continue to pray for your family as you begin this new journey with precious baby Levi. Cora is smiling down on her little brother!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - What a wonderful blessing. Congrats – he’s so beautiful and so loved.
    ~SuzanneReplyCancel

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  • BreezieGirl - Congratulations and HAPPY New Year! Welcome Levi!! Your Angel Cora is watching and rejoicing!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations!! What a sweet little boy!ReplyCancel

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  • Jill - congratulations! what a precious blessing-love that name 🙂
    praying for you all!ReplyCancel

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  • Party of Five - What a great name. How sweet he is. Congrats. You guys deserve the very best and I am so happy for you!ReplyCancel

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  • Aaron and Shannon - Yay!! Congrats! Can’t wait to see him! So happy that things went well.ReplyCancel

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  • Taylor - I have been looking every day the past week or so to see if you have a new addition to your family…now you do! Congratulations!!ReplyCancel

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  • Christian @ Modobject at Home - And He will lead you on this, your newest journey.

    To God be the glory.

    Congratulations.ReplyCancel

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  • Lori - Congratulations! We are SO excited for you! Levi looks adorable and we can’t wait to meet him! I hope he and Riley can have some good times together! ;o) Love you guys!ReplyCancel

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  • Katherine - What a beautiful baby boy!!! Congrats to you both. What an awesome blessing!!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Megan - Congratulations! I’ve been reading for awhile and am so, so, so thrilled for you. He is absolutely adorable.ReplyCancel

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  • The Kellys - Congratulations!!! Such a beautiful family!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I am so happy for you both!
    I love his name…
    God Bless!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Am so happy for u!!!! It is pr’y such a bittersweet time altho full of JOY! God Bless You!ReplyCancel

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  • Ashley - Love the photo of all of you. What a blessing!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Little Levi is so adorable, I’m sure Cora is so proud to be a big sister. He is adorable, and you look FANTASTIC.-MaureenReplyCancel

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  • Regina - Your news made my day! Congratulations on your new baby boy. What a sweet baby!ReplyCancel

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  • Heather at All A Flutter - he’s magnificent! congratulations!!ReplyCancel

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  • Country Roads - Welcome Levi!!
    Your family is such an inspiration.

    We are SO HAPPY for you. Congratulations and God Bless!!ReplyCancel

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  • Maria - Wow — a new year, a new son and a new blessing. What a wonderful way to start the year. I know you still feel the pain of losing Cora, but I know that she is smiling down on the blessing of her brother’s arrival.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I’m SO happy for you!!!! Congratulations!!!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • The Perdaris Family: - Congrats! So happy for you!ReplyCancel

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  • Scott, Joanna, Matthew - Congratulations on your little bundle of joy! Great pictures! He is so precious!ReplyCancel

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  • starnes family - A million congrats! So happy for you guys.ReplyCancel

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  • Maranda Whorton - Congratulations Jess and Joel! God Bless you and your beautiful little family. My thoughts and prayers with you!

    MarandaReplyCancel

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  • Seraphim - Welcome to your beautiful family Levi. Your daddy, mummy and big sister must be thrilled you are safely here. Loved from heaven and all over the world. A precious baby boy xxxxReplyCancel

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  • Ashley - CONGRATULATIONS. 🙂 Levi is adorable.ReplyCancel

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  • ~Cherie - My heart is SO HAPPY for you!!! Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Mrs. Big Time - Congratulations on your sweet babe! Many prayers of blessing and healing as you welcome this beautiful boy into your amazing family.ReplyCancel

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  • Christa - CONGRATULATIONS!!! I am SO happy for you and your husband! I love the name Levi! Too cute!ReplyCancel

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  • Todd and Courtney - I’ve always loved the name Levi. I’m so excited for you and can’t wait for more pictures. My heart just sank and was filled with joy when I saw you had posted.ReplyCancel

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  • Melissa Jensen - My heart is so full and REJOICING for your family!! What an AWESOME God we serve! I cannot wait to get to meet him!

    Your family is just so beautiful!
    (Jess you look great for just having a baby! So radiant and just so happy!)ReplyCancel

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  • Laura Ann - Congratulations. I am so happy for the both of you and for little Levi. I have read your blog since little Cora’s dignosis and have prayed for you guys DAILY. I was so glad to log onto tonight and see that your baby had arrived. I will continue to keep you guys in my prayers.ReplyCancel

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  • Maxcey - Congratulations! Welcome to the world Levi!! I’m so happy for you and your family!ReplyCancel

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  • k and c's mom - YEA!!! I’m glad I checked into your blog and saw the good news tonight. So overjoyed for you all. Congratulations, sweet little family.ReplyCancel

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  • Midwest Mommy - Congrats! I am so happy for you.ReplyCancel

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  • Robin - Welcome to the world, Levi, and welcome to a wonderful family!ReplyCancel

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  • Wendy - Hooray!!! What a beautiful boy! I’m so happy for you all!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congrats! My dad’s birthday is today as well. I am sure Cora is delighted in heaven and will be there to watch over her brother and the rest of the family.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Oh what a joyful day! A blessing sent straight from heaven! I cannot imagine what it feels like to hold that precious boy in your arms…SO loved SO wanted SO blessed SO adorable. God bless ya’ll as you begin this new journey, this road will never be easy, but today marks the beginning of a new chapter, with a beautiful baby boy!!! Keep the pictures coming… I will keep the prayers flowing.ReplyCancel

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  • Jayne - Congratulations. God bless you all!ReplyCancel

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  • LAURA - I am so happy for you! My heart skipped a beat when I saw your post tonight. Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Tonya - Oh congratulations!!! Levi is amazing and God is so good!ReplyCancel

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  • Clem - He is beautiful! Thank you for sharing with us.ReplyCancel

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  • Farris Family - Every Good And Perfect Gift Is From Above~James 1:17 God Bless~ReplyCancel

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  • Nichole - Congratulations! What a little sweetie!ReplyCancel

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  • Lacey McKay - Congratulations! What a cutie pie! And what a great way to start the new year!ReplyCancel

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  • hoosier68 - Thanks be to God! Congratulations to all of you. Levi is precious!ReplyCancel

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  • Steph - Aww, Congratulations, he is so adorable, just precious!! I pray for a much better 2010 for you and your family!!ReplyCancel

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  • rentz - Congratulations! So happy and excited for you. The Lord is good–all the time! Levi is so precious and adorable.

    And, Jess, I agree with the others. You look fabulous! Oh, and Joel, you do too, of course! : )ReplyCancel

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  • House of Collinsworth - Tears of joy for you. A son…a beautiful son. So happy for you!ReplyCancel

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  • Mommy - CONGRATS!!!! He’s so beautiful! God is GREAT ALL THE TIME!!! So happy for your family 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I knew you would have a boy!! SO happy for you and your beautiful family. Welcome, Levi!! He is precious. Congratulations!!

    ~blog reader JenReplyCancel

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  • Heather's Home (aka Chez Hez) - I said this when I saw your post:

    “OMGosh, yayayay!!!” my hubby laughed at me. 😛 Congrats on your newest bundle, Macs! May he bring you much joy and he’s got the bestest big angel sister there is in Ms. Cora. *hearts all around*ReplyCancel

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  • Linda - Congratulations!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Linda - BIG congratulations!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Jenni - Congrats!! I love the name Levi!
    I know that Cora is with you guys and she is smiling ear to ear about having a baby brother!!
    Such a great way to bring in the New Year!!ReplyCancel

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  • lauren - My heart is bursting for you!

    Many congratulations.

    Your beautiful family is in my prayers!ReplyCancel

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  • adoptingmama - Congratulations to your sweet family!ReplyCancel

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  • Rach - This comment has been removed by the author.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations. He is beautiful. What a gift from God. Looks like Cora sent you a very sweet baby brother.ReplyCancel

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  • kaylin rose and mara anne - Welcome Little Levi! Congrats to you…love the name and love your new family pictures. You are so blessed. I have never met you, but I am SO happy for you guys….enjoy your little one!

    Many blessings to you!ReplyCancel

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  • The Farmers - YAY!!!!! I am beyond excited!!! Thank you Jesus for this new beginning!!!ReplyCancel

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  • C Golden - Beautiful congrats x1000000!ReplyCancel

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  • Ethansmom08 - I am SO excited for you and your husband! Congrats on the arrival of your sweet baby boy, Levi! He is blessed to have you both as parents and to have Cora as a big sister!

    Love and Prayers,
    SaraReplyCancel

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  • Cristin - Congratulations!!!! I am overjoyed for you all!!!ReplyCancel

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  • amy - welcome to the world, Levi! you are loved!
    hugs,
    amyReplyCancel

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  • Dallas - Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • dawn - So happy for you. enjoy every moment with Levi! Congrats.ReplyCancel

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  • Manda - I don’t think I’ve ever commented before…but this deserves a break in my silence!! Congrats! I pray that the Lord allows this bundle of joy to continue to heal your hearts!ReplyCancel

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  • Peggi - Yeah!!!! I knew you were having a boy, not sure why I just knew. Congratulations and enjoy your beautiful baby. 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Erin, Kaitlyn and Henry - Congratulations! He looks so sweet. I about jumped off the computer with happiness when I saw your exciting news. God bless your little family. I will continue to keep you in my prayers.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - oh wow congatulations!
    he looks divine.
    love amanda australiaReplyCancel

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  • Crystal - I wanted to cry when I seen your post 🙂 I am so happy for you and your family. He is beautiful!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • E @ Oh! Apostrophe - Congratulations! Welcome to the world, Levi!ReplyCancel

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  • Mark and Mandi - I’ve followed your blog for months and have cried so many tears for you…and now I’ve cried happy tears! What a blessing- congratulations on your second beautiful child.ReplyCancel

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  • Cherry Tree Lane - The angels in heaven sing! Blessed be the name of the Lord. Cora rejoices with them!
    Welcome baby boy!ReplyCancel

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  • Lindsay - Congrats and God Bless You!ReplyCancel

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  • In Debt Dee - Congratulations!! Blessings,
    The Bautista FamilyReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congrats! I nearly screamed with joy when I saw your post! What a beautiful baby boy! God is good!

    Levi is so fortunate to come into such a loving family. He will always have his big sister Cora to watch over him…

    Again, God bless your family.

    Evelyn in Newport News…ReplyCancel

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  • tinycandi - Congratulations! He is absolutely adorable! Beautiful photos as well!ReplyCancel

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  • sarah @ life {sweet} life - Congratulations!! He is absolutely adorable and I love his name. I am praying for you guys and your sweet son…many blessings your way!! 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • katherine - Congratulations! What a beautiful baby!ReplyCancel

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  • Amy Lynn - Congratulations! And welcome, sweet Levi. What a beautiful baby.ReplyCancel

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  • beckley - congratulations.
    peace and joy be yours.ReplyCancel

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  • Help Meet in the Making - Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Anna - Welcome to the world little Levi…it warms my heart to see yours and Joels arms full again. However, I know that while you’re thrilled to have another precious baby, you still ache for Cora. She is rejoicing in heaven as you welcome her little brother into this world! How awesome that she can continue to live through you as you take this new journey! Blessings…and keep the pictures coming!ReplyCancel

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  • Tess - this is my first comment ever, after almost a year of reading your blog – but i had to say CONGRATS!!! He is such a gorgeous little guy, what a true blessing!ReplyCancel

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  • Bailey - Congratulations! May God bless you all!ReplyCancel

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  • Clare - Congratulations Jess and Joel!! May he be everything you wished for and more, you deserve it!!
    Jess, you look great-I wish I looked half as good in my hospital pictures.ReplyCancel

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  • Joyce - So happy for you…God bless you all. Best wishes as you celebrate your baby boy.ReplyCancel

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  • Brandi - Congratulations! What a beautiful baby boy. Wishing you lots of love and happiness with your boy. Big sister Cora is celebrating in Heaven!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Abby - Congratulations, he is beautiful and you both look radiant!ReplyCancel

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  • Cristy - Awww….Congrats Jess and Joel! So happy for you guys. I can’t wait to see your new little man in person!ReplyCancel

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  • Sarah - Congratulations! What a wonderful beginning to the new year and decade!!ReplyCancel

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  • Susan - How sweet…I’ve been checking all day because I just knew it would be today!! Congratulations…Levi is just handsome! A new journey is beginning for you…enjoy!ReplyCancel

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  • the*4*of*us - congrats!!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Jaime - Oh welcome little Levi! What a precious gift and a beautiful family. Congrats!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Kelly - Welcome to the world, Levi! Congratulations mom and dad!!ReplyCancel

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  • The Costellos - Praise God from Whom ALL Blessings Flow! Praying for you in this surely bitter-sweet time. He is beautiful. Congratulations and welcome to Cora’s little bubby 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • gabriel - I sweet lil boy! I am so happy for you and it wont take no time for Levi to realize he has the bestets parents. Thanks for being such an inspiration to so many.ReplyCancel

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  • Dina - Streaming tears of happiness!!! You are all beautiful. God Bless You All!!!! Our God is THE most AWESOME God!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations! I’m so happy for you guys.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I sat and wept as I saw the picture of your new son appear on my screen. Praying for you to feel God’s overwelming prescence as you go thru all the many emotions you must be experiencing. Congrats Macs!ReplyCancel

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  • Leanne - Congrats! He is precious!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - We are so happy for you Joel and Jess. We think little boys are great!!
    Here’s to a joy filled 2010!
    Love,
    Reid and LoriReplyCancel

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  • Rachel - Oh Congratulations!! He’s beautiful!ReplyCancel

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  • jenni - Congratulations! What a beautiful boy!! I can only imagine how proud big sister Cora is of her baby brother – rejoicing with all of heaven! Thank you so much for sharing – it is amazing, though we have never met…how much we love you guys! God bless you as you continue on this journey!ReplyCancel

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  • Robin in Benton - Congratulations and God Bless you – I know Cora is celebrating for you in heaven!ReplyCancel

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  • Becky - He is so beautiful. Congratulations and blessings to all of you!ReplyCancel

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  • Ginger - Congratulations!!!! I, too, am overcome with emotion… he is beautiful. I love the name. So redeeming – I pray that God showers you with love and grace as you adjust to this new season. May God bless your new little bundle of joy. 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • deyoungsters - congratulations!! he is so precious. you look beautiful 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Paula Aspacher - beautiful baby boy! looks just like his daddy and daddy looks over the moon!ReplyCancel

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  • Kelly - Praise the Lord!! Levi is beautiful & your hearts must be overjoyed & yet overwhelmed. I will continue to pray for your family as you begin this new & blessed chapter in your lives. Congratulations from the plains of NW OklahomaReplyCancel

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  • Amy - Yay! You don’t know me but I follow your sweet blog. We have also lost a baby. I’ve been waiting for you to have the baby!! And a sweet boy! He is perfect. Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Shauna - Congratulations!!! What a handsome lil fella!ReplyCancel

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  • Colleen - Welcome Levi!!! Congratulations to you, Joel and your newest addition to your family! I was soooo excited to see your post when I got home tonight. Cora is smiling from above. God bless and take care 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Jaymie - Congratulations on your newest miracle, he is perfection!ReplyCancel

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  • Amy@theredheaddiaries.blogspot.com - Congrats!!!! He is adorable 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Brooke - Congratulations!

    He is so sweet!ReplyCancel

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  • Alicia - Welcome to the world Levi! I am so happy for the 3 of you and am sending lots of love from CO. What a wonderful way to welcome 2010!ReplyCancel

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  • songskatesang - Congratulations! I am so happy for you!ReplyCancel

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  • Courtney Kay - Welcome sweet baby boy! Enjoy this road of the Journey…ReplyCancel

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  • Linda - I’ve followed your blog for quite some time now, but have never commented. You are both such inspiring, faith-filled people. Thank you for sharing your story.

    Congratulations on your new arrival! I wish you many blessings!!ReplyCancel

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  • Jackie - Congratulations!!!
    I am so excited for your family!ReplyCancel

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  • Heather - I’ve been following your blog for a while now, and been praying for you and your husband. Having a baby girl myself, my heart has broken for you over the last year, but I am so happy for you and your new blessing. Congratulations, God bless you and your beautiful family.ReplyCancel

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  • Gail - Oh my goodness–I squealed and scared my hubby when I saw your blog–so happy to have some good news in your family. LOVE the name! Love that baby. Praying for you…ReplyCancel

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  • Alex(andra) - I’m another lurker, but I thought I’d come on out to say that Levi is absolutely beautiful. Many congrats!ReplyCancel

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  • Rachel E. - Congratulations on Levi’s birth, Joel & Jess! Jess, you look AMAZING for just having had an 8 lb-er! I am so excited for you and pray that God would surround you with his peace during the coming days.ReplyCancel

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  • Vicki - Congratulations! He is a beautiful and amazing gift! God bless you all!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - God IS good. Every happiness and blessing to you and to both your families—

    This little guy has already brought much joy to many.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congrats! Great pictures!! You look beautiful after having a baby, and the picture of baby and daddy is touching….
    ShannonReplyCancel

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  • Lori - Congratulations! May God bless your family with health, peace, and joy.ReplyCancel

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  • Heather | Cookie Mondays - Happy Birthday, Levi! I am thrilled!!!!!!!! Big hugs, Joel & Jess! xxxxxReplyCancel

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  • Casey - Oh YAY! Congratulations! He’s adorable! What a head full of hair. And he was born on Palindrome day too, you can put that in his baby book 🙂 Amazing what God can do isn’t it, the baby not the palindromes 🙂 Congratulations he’s beautiful.ReplyCancel

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  • Boothbloggers - Congratulations! So excited for your family! He is gorgeous!God bless you all!!ReplyCancel

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  • emdalke - Yea! I am so happy for you guys! Wishing you many blessings with little Levi!ReplyCancel

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  • Auntie Mip - Been following since sweet Cora but never felt I should post as we are complete strangers…but Levi is pure BLISS…God Bless The Macs!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Emily Zimmerman - I am tearing up!! Thank you so much for sharing the good news with us!! Congratulations!! I have enjoyed reading your blog and following your story, ever since I was introduced to it through another favorite blog…whatever. I am sitting here with my husband enjoying a quiet night at home. This has made my night even better. I’m so excited for you and your family!!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations….I had a feelng your newest bundle of Love had arrived. May the Lord bless your family.
    You have been such an inspiration as you have traveled this painful journey and yet through the journey you have pointed others to God and His immeasurable love & grace in your lives. Be blessed, I will be praying for you as you adjust to your new kind of wonderful. : – )ReplyCancel

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  • Melissa - Congratulations! He’s beautiful!ReplyCancel

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  • Erin - Congrats! So happy for you!ReplyCancel

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  • Leah - Oh my…Congratulations! I’m going to cry 🙂 Welcome Levi!ReplyCancel

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  • Celine - It is amazing to see how many people you have touched. You deserve every bit of outpouring of love and support. I am thrilled for you and Joel to welcome a beautiful baby boy. I know you will enjoy every moment with him and never take a single day for granted.ReplyCancel

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  • Kristie - AWESOME!! Congrats! I checked on you guys earlier and thought I’ll check one last time before bed! I’m glad I did! He is absolutly precious!!ReplyCancel

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  • maryboys - oh. how incredibly wonderful! there is a tear or two in my eyes…he is simply perfect…congratulations…

    maryReplyCancel

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  • Trasie Bressler - Oh he is beautiful and absolutely perfect!

    My little girl was born on the 30th of December 2008 weighing in at 8lbs 8 oz but we celebrated her birthday today. My friend then told me that you all had welcomed that baby boy bundle of joy into the world today and my heart skipped a few beats.

    May you celebrate many birthdays and I pray that your arms will always be full.

    Many Many Blessings,
    TrasieReplyCancel

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  • Amy - I am so thrilled for you both! Levi is absolutely adorable. Such a sweet, sweet face. I can’t wait to meet him in person and give you a hug! Congrats!ReplyCancel

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  • Angie - Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Givinya De Elba - Oh Jess! Tears of Joy! Cora is in heaven, rejoicing too! Thankyou Lord!ReplyCancel

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  • Melissa Brandman - What a wonderful gift for 2010. May God bless your family, and especially little Levi.

    MelissaReplyCancel

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  • Devon - congrats! he’s beautiful…ReplyCancel

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  • Shelly - Blessing to you all! He’s beautiful!ReplyCancel

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  • Brooke - Yeah…..pure joy and wonder. Tears are rolling down may face for your family. Levi is blessed to have you as parents and to have a sister watching out for him. God is wonderful! Love, BrookeReplyCancel

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  • purejoy - i just had this feeling you were going to have a boy. he’s beautiful and y’all look precious together. welcome little levi!!
    rejoicing with you!ReplyCancel

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  • Kelly - Congratulations on your sweet baby boy! He’s beautiful! (and like a whole slew of others have already said, you look incredible!) What a perfect beginning to this new year!ReplyCancel

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  • Tyler and Gillian - Congratulations, Macs!!! He’s beautiful! Rejoicing with you from Seattle. 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Nancy - Bless your hearts!! He’s beautiful! Praying for you 3 as your new journey begins!! WITH A PRECIOUS BOY!! Congrats!ReplyCancel

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  • lgraves - CONGRATULATIONS! A beautiful journey. Love, the Graves’ReplyCancel

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  • run26.2mom - Levi doesn’t know it yet…but he will find out soon….what amazing parents he has to guide him through this world. Your faith speaks loudly! Thank you for sharing your love of the Lord on your blog. I occasionally remark but conistently read. You inspire me to look at my own faith. Congratulations! Cora is a proud sister in heaven.
    Peace,
    SusanReplyCancel

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  • Deborah - Joy has arrived! Congratulations on baby Levi!ReplyCancel

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  • Kelly - Congratulations on your sweet baby boy! He’s beautiful! (and like a whole slew of others have already said, you look incredible!) What a perfect beginning to this new year!ReplyCancel

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  • Savanna - Congratulations Jess and Joel! Levi looks beautiful- I’m sure Cora is up in heaven and feeling very proud to be a big sister to such a wonderful little boy. Thank you so much for sharing your lives and your journey with so many!ReplyCancel

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  • ran shae - congrats macs! he is adorable!ReplyCancel

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  • Angie - Congrats!!! Levi is just adorable, I love his name!! Praying for you on this new journey and so glad that Cora has a sweet baby brother to look down on!!ReplyCancel

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  • Shannon - Congratulations! He is absolutely beautiful, and you both look radiant with him. He is a lucky boy to be born into such an amazing family with such a strong love of God!ReplyCancel

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  • A - Welcome to your little boy!ReplyCancel

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  • Alaina - PRAISE THE LORD!!! Lord you are good and your mercy endures forever! Rejoicing with you on the birth of Levi!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations from Wyoming! Enjoy him.

    RobynReplyCancel

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  • Kelsey - The pics are beautiful and brought tears to my eyes.ReplyCancel

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  • bayleesmommy07 - I have been a silent observer for a few months now. your journey with cora and traveling through her passing and grief that comes with has helped me cope with the loss of my son 5 years ago this february.

    I finally want to say congrats on the birth of your son and know Cora & God is watching over you and your family.ReplyCancel

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  • Our Lives - Congratulations! Welcome Levi! Praise the Lord for His goodness! I am so happy for you I cried! My children said “Hooray for Levi!!”.
    Will continue to follow you blog and share your joyfulness!
    JennyReplyCancel

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  • Diana - Amen! Amen! Amen!
    Praise the Lord!
    Amen! Amen! Amen!
    Praise His Name!
    Welcome, Levi!
    Congratulations to his mommy and daddy!
    Such a beautiful boy!
    The Heavens rejoice!
    And God smiles…
    as does Cora 🙂

    PRAISE THE LORD!

    P. S. Like everyone else is saying…
    you look BEAUTIFUL, Jess!

    ♥ReplyCancel

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  • Abby - Congratulations! Welcome to the world, Levi!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Beki - TheRustedChain - Gorgeous!!!!
    I just knew it.

    We were driving home from Missouri and I just knew I’d come home and see a blog post that you’d had the baby.

    Congratulations and welcome to the world baby Levi!! He could not have been placed by God in a more perfect family.

    We love you guys!!ReplyCancel

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  • Beth McC. - Congrats on the new baby!! I teared up when I saw your new sweet baby boy!!ReplyCancel

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  • Have Cracker Will Travel - Words cannot express how happy I am for the two of you!! Congrats and welcome to the world, Levi!!ReplyCancel

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  • Kristi - COngratulations!!! I was SO SO happy to see your post on my dashboard tonight!!! God bless you all!! I cannot wait to hear more about sweet Levi! How lucky he is to have such wonderful parents!
    xoxo
    KristiReplyCancel

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  • Launa - Oh my gosh… he is so beautiful! Congratulations! Those pictures are so stunning they made me cry… wishing you all the best and, of course, keeping you in our prayers!ReplyCancel

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  • Elizabeth - Happy Tears for you and your family — congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • 3LittleByrds - Praise God for his blessings. What a wonderful way to start 2010. Welcome Little Levi to the World.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Such joy! He’s beautiful and blessed to have you both as parents.

    ElizabethReplyCancel

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  • singing mama - OhSo excited for you!!! Tears are running down my face! He is gorgeous and you look so beautiful! Praise God and I will be continuing to pray for you in these first awesome but tiring weeks.
    Luv DonnaReplyCancel

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  • Marylou Levrets - Congratulations on the safe arrival of your new baby son. I wish you the very best in every way. You are a precious family and I shall continue to pray for you and yours.ReplyCancel

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  • Erica - oh CONGRATS!!! yay! i had a feeling it was gonna be a boy 😉 i have two boys and you will just LOVE having a little man around 😉 my niece was born today as well, so it’s a great day! congrats again, you are so blessed!!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Beautiful. Just beautiful! Congrats to you both as you begin a new joy-filled journey!!!! I’m so overjoyed for you… and I just know Cora is too 🙂
    Warmest regards!
    ~Nichole in TulsaReplyCancel

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  • Meredith - Oh my gosh, goosebumps galore! I was NOT expecting this!!! I’m so glad your life will be blessed with a boy! Congratulations! I KNOW Cora has her “I’m a BIG Sister” shirt on! 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations from WA state!!!
    Thank you for sharing this wonderful news with us all right away!! I am so very happy for you all and will continue to pray for the bonding and growing together in precious love for the 3 of you.
    Thank you for continuing to share your life with those of us out here connected to you via this blog.
    The Lord bless you!
    LuannReplyCancel

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  • Stef - I am SO happy for you guys!! Praise the Lord for a healthy baby and healthy Mama. We will be praying for these early days, that are sure to have some ups and downs. I am so, so, so, so filled with joy for you both. Amazing goodness from the Lord.

    God bless Cora’s sweet little brother <3ReplyCancel

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  • Clint & Missy Green - Cora has a brother. Excited to see Joel carry him into church for the 1st time w/ a big grin on his face. U may not remember but Clinton & I stopped u in the parking lot the 1st Sunday Cora came to church. Joel was so proud, perhaps u were so tired:) Congrats!ReplyCancel

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  • Jennifer - Congratulations! May he bring you SO much joy. I also have older siblings in heaven and while it is different, I know they are there; I know they are my family, and they still matter oh so much to me. Big blog hugs to everyone! Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congrats he is just gorgeous!
    Summer & Family in CaliforniaReplyCancel

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  • Becky - Yeah! Congratulations! Many blessings and much love for the coming new year!ReplyCancel

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  • Tracie - Congratulations!!!!
    He is so beautiful!!!
    Happy Birthday Levi!!

    Your faith is so amazing and wonderful. Thank you for sharing your blessed day with us.ReplyCancel

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  • KK - Congrats, what a big boy!ReplyCancel

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  • Allison - Wow, so many comments, I wonder if you will get down the list to this one! I am so happy for you two!

    Also, Jan 2 is such a good birthday! My little boy Ellory turned 1 year old today! He is my third and last child, but baby Levi is your second and I pray he will be a wonderful big brother for more “Baby Macs”.

    Congratulations Joel & Jessica. I think of you and pray for you often. May this new joy bring some healing to your hearts.

    ~Allison Pile VogesReplyCancel

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  • Lauren - well,suffice it to say, this post caught me off guard. I knew you were due soon, but goodness, I fell emotionally unprepared! 🙂

    Levi. Words are not enough. From heaven to earth, he is a blessing unmeasurable.ReplyCancel

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  • Candace - So happy for you! He is so absolutely precious! Will be praying for you all! Much Love!ReplyCancel

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  • Christina - Oh my goodness! I’m so excited that he’s here!
    My oldest’s birthday is today…we spent the day celebrating, too. 🙂 Praise the Lord for your sweet family!ReplyCancel

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  • Angie - Welcome little Levi!! So very happy for your family!!!Cora will always be with you! She gave you the gift of learning parental love and it will always be with you as you journey with Levi! Love & happiness to you all!!
    AngieReplyCancel

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  • Sarah - Congratulations! It is so wonderful to see you holding this beautiful gift you have been given! I know that Cora is looking down sharing this moment with you both also! Levi may not know it yet, but he has some of the stongest, most faithful parents out there. Thanks for sharing this news!ReplyCancel

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  • Melody - What a beautiful little man!! I am so happy for you guys!! Congratulations!!ReplyCancel

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  • Breanna - Congratulations!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Elizabeth-Plain and Simple - Congratulations. I am so happy for all of you.

    Blessings,
    ElizabethReplyCancel

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  • leel - congratulations! can i boast about how i totally called it being a boy months ago?!? i did!

    what a wonderful chapter to start your new year. Welcome, Levi!

    ps. Levi is my 3 year old nephews name as well! He is the most amazing kid, so cheers to the name!ReplyCancel

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  • Shawn - I love Amanda’s comment-“fearfully and wonderfully”-so happy for you all. Love love love love to you. ShawnReplyCancel

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  • amy and kids - Congratulations! He is just gorgeous!ReplyCancel

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  • Enos Family - CONGRATS!!!!
    Oh, I love the name. So, so, so happy for you! What a wonderful new year for you! He is absolutely beautiful.ReplyCancel

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  • The Drama Mama - What a beautiful little miracle! Praying for all of you….CONGRATS! You guys are constantly in my prayers! HUGS!!ReplyCancel

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  • Candice - Congratulations!! Blessings and love to your family, including little Cora of course.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations! I am so happy for your family!

    LaurieReplyCancel

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  • Abby Johns - He’s absolutely precious! Congratulations to you both!ReplyCancel

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  • Carpenter's - Congrats to you and your famliy! Levi is so cute and you look fantastic! I can’t wait to watch him grow!ReplyCancel

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  • Miss G - Oh Wow!!!! Congratulations!!! I am so excited for y’all. He is so sweet and precious and adorable! Thanks for letting us know! You guys are quick to get a post up! KellyReplyCancel

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  • Rachel - I have followed your blog for almost a year now and am sitting here crying tears of joy for you! May your family be truly blessed for you more then deserve all the happiness your angel is shinning on you!ReplyCancel

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  • Shana - I am so happy for you guys. Congratulations!!ReplyCancel

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  • The Clark Clan! - Congratulations!!!!! He is so beautiful!ReplyCancel

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  • mel @ the larson lingo - CONGRATS!!!!
    Tears of joy for you!
    Welcome to the world, Levi!
    p.s. Jess, you look GREAT!ReplyCancel

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  • Proud Grandma - Congratulations – Levi is adorable.ReplyCancel

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  • Vera - Oh my goodness, he’s precious!! CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Chris - Congratulation! I have been on the watch for this announcment for a week now 🙂 Its 3 am right now and I decided to check my blogroll and there he is 🙂 Beautiful baby .
    I love his name and the pictures .
    Happy new year to you and your beautiful family .
    Again Congratulation.ReplyCancel

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  • Mum2twopreciousgifts - Alleulia for Levi’s safe arrival. May he be Blessed with a lifetime of good health and happiness.

    May Cora guide him and you both along the path of his life.

    Congratulations from Australia!

    Michelle xReplyCancel

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  • Zingo Tots - Oh my goodness…he is beautiful! He is so alert for a new baby! Wisdom in his eyes! Congratulations!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Heather - Congratulations! He’s a gorgeous little boy! Much love for this new year.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I’ve been excitedly checking your blog every day hoping for good news. I know that you are overjoyed with the birth of Levi but I also know that your hearts are heavy in missing Cora. May God surround you at this time and bring you comfort and joy.ReplyCancel

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  • Carla - Hurrah, Hurrah, he is here!! I’m so deeply happy for you both and for Levi too, being born into such a beautiful family, with his darling big sister watching him from heaven. I wish you peace and happiness to enjoy this new chapter. I have to say Jess, you look amazing, not a bit tired. Levi Jerald (love the name :-)) shares a birthday with my little munchkin, she was born at 3.10pm on 02.01.08. Big birthday party here today, better go get ready, but the first thing I had to do today, was check TheMacs for any news. I couldn’t be happier for you both. Deo Gratis. Oh I’m so HAPPY for you!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Clare - What a beautiful little boy, I’m sure Cora is smiling down on you all at this special time.

    With love xxReplyCancel

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  • Kiley - What a way to celebrate my birthday then to see a happy family!! What a handsome little man. Congrats to all of you. I am sure Cora is welcoming her baby brother with many kisses from heaven.

    Love
    Kiley Rodrigues
    http://www.kileyandjason.blogspot.comReplyCancel

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  • Davene - Congratulations! I am thrilled for you!!!

    The pictures are wonderful; you look great, Jess, for just having had a baby. 🙂

    Thanking God with you for this precious gift…ReplyCancel

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  • Ashleigh - I am so happy for you both! You all deserve huge amount of happiness!ReplyCancel

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  • Amber - oh congrats on your new journey. What a sweet little boy. Take care and God bless you and your family.ReplyCancel

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  • Whimsical Creations - Congrats!!! Bless you and your family!ReplyCancel

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  • Selina - He’s here! Finally! Levi is the name of my 2nd son. Love it! Congratulations.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - What a wonderful New Years Blessing! Congratulation on the birth of your son!

    May God contine to watch over your Family as you start down a new and happy path.ReplyCancel

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  • EmilyE - Beautiful! God Bless your Family.
    xoxoReplyCancel

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  • Tina - What wonderful news! Congratulations! I loved the pictures. He is beautiful. Many blessings to you and your family Jess. Praying for you all still!!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Shelby - Congratulations!!!ReplyCancel

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  • jandkland - Many, many congratulations to you on the birth of your precious baby boy. I can’t fathom what it’s like to welcome a child so soon after you’ve lost one, but I can’t help thinking it’s a a big dose of grace wrapped up in the beautiful package of a son. I am so happy to see the joy on your faces as you hold your boy! While I don’t know how heaven works, I like to imagine your Cora giving Levi a kiss on his way into your earthly arms. Praying for your adjustment and grateful to God for this precious new gift even in the midst of great loss.

    –Kelley in GAReplyCancel

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  • Sara - Welcome to the world sweet Levi! What a sweet picture of you guys – I couldn’t be happier. I am sure Cora is beaming with pride in Heaven for her new baby brother!ReplyCancel

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  • Ruth - Praise God! Congratulations!! Such beautiful pictures. Many prayers for your new journey – Levi is a blessed boy to have you guys as parents.ReplyCancel

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  • Mandi - What a sweet addition to your family. Welcome to the world, Levi!ReplyCancel

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  • Kimberley - Many, many congratulations to you all! Levi is gorgeous (and you look entirely too good to have just had a baby!!)! God bless you all on this new journey.ReplyCancel

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  • Kim - Congratulations! What a lucky little boy! So happy for you all!ReplyCancel

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  • Angela - First time commenting…Congratulations….I’ve been following your blog for awhile now..you’re in inspiration! Best of luck and can’t wait to follow you and your family over the next several monthsReplyCancel

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  • Carol - Beautiful little Levi! You will be so loved!ReplyCancel

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  • Kristin - Oh my goodness-I have been waiting for this post!! He is beautiful…now you have 2 very beautiful little ones! Congrats! I am so happy for you both!ReplyCancel

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  • Julie Shaner - Congratulations to all three of you….What a great way to start the new year and decade. I pray that the year is full of blessings for you all.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - And what a cool birthday little Levi has! It’s only the second palindrome day of the 21st century, meaning that if you flip the day over it reads the same: 01/02/2010. There are only 12 of these days in this century! (not to mention his time of birth!) What a special day for a special little boy. He’s beautiful! Congrats!ReplyCancel

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  • Melinda - Oh he is beautiful! Such a wonderful name too. Congrats Jess and Joel! Cora is smiling down, so very proud of her little brother.ReplyCancel

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  • Mandi @ It's come to this - Congratulations!!! He is beautiful! I know Cora is smiling on her new brother with love! Continuing to pray for this “new” normal. God bless your family!!ReplyCancel

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  • Maria - Beyond thrilled for you and your entire family! Enjoy the joy he will bring and know sweet Cora is watching over all of you.ReplyCancel

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  • jen - congratulations 🙂 what a wonderful gift.ReplyCancel

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  • Drew, Taylor, and Caroline Clayton - Congrats I am so happy for y’all my eyes teared up when I saw him!ReplyCancel

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  • Nicole - Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • The Eyre Family - Congratulations! What a sweet boy with a sweet name! Thank you for your inspired story to help my faith to grow. God Bless You!ReplyCancel

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  • Unmistakably BLESSED - Baby Mac is beautiful. Welcome Levi! Knit together, what a miracle! I’m praying for you all. I check in daily, and I pray!ReplyCancel

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  • Heidi - I am a stranger to you, but to me you are a good friend. So with that friend, Congratulations on the birth of your son. I wish I could visit with you and Levi and share in your joy. He is a blessed little boy that has wonderful parents and a beauiful angel in Cora. Enjoy this special time with your baby. Thank you so much for posting, Your blog friend HeidiReplyCancel

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  • Tj and Chelse - I didn’t realize opening your blog and seeing a picture could make me cry! Congratulations, what a miracle.ReplyCancel

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  • Patrice - My heart leaps for joy for you!! Cograts on your newest journey!!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations! I’m so happy for you. He is beautiful… 🙂 What a way to start off 2010!

    -Michelle
    V.B. FloridaReplyCancel

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  • Stacie - he’s beautiful! congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Autumn - Congratulations! What a sweet baby boy! Praying for a happy healthy new year for all of you!ReplyCancel

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  • Roo and Wren's Mama - I am SO happy for you! God is good.ReplyCancel

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  • Erica - Congratulations guys. You’ve been on our hearts.ReplyCancel

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  • ems - Congrats! So happy for you two:)ReplyCancel

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  • Hollie - Congratulations on your sweet blessing!

    I don’t even remember how I came across your blog, but I have been following for several months. Keeping you all in my prayers!ReplyCancel

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  • Kristi REDISKE - Congratulations! So happy for you but i do know it must be bittersweet-I am sure Cora is in Heaven looking down and so proud. Little boys sure are fun-the Lord has blessed you with a beautiful one. Hope the delivery went well. God bless you all.ReplyCancel

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  • katy - Heartfelt congratulations! He is gorgeous!ReplyCancel

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  • Michele - Oh wow, CONGRATULATIONS! What a surprise to check in today and find out that you’ve already given birth to a beautiful, healthy baby boy. I am happy for your family; I’m glad it was a boy and I know Cora is with you always! Enjoy that baby! Happy New Year!ReplyCancel

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  • The Hams - Such a handsome blessing to begin 2010! Congratulations and I am continuing to pray for you and your beautiful family.ReplyCancel

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  • andrea - Congratulations, I am so happy for you guys!ReplyCancel

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  • Tiffany - Praising God on your behalf – stay strong; may he encourage your hearts & fill them with much joy!ReplyCancel

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  • Savanna - Praise the Lord! I am so happy for you all…I have been checking in to and was SO happy to see your post! Levi is adorable, and it is such a blessing to see you both happy and smiling!
    Much love to you and Levi,
    SavannaReplyCancel

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  • Pamela - All I can do is cry for you. Happy tears for your beautiful boy. Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations! God Bless all of you!ReplyCancel

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  • The Goshorn 5 - I can’t express how HAPPY I am for both of you. He is beautiful!
    Congratulations and God’s Blessings to you all.ReplyCancel

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  • Molly - He’s so cute! What an amazing blessing. Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Team Alix - Oh Hooray!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Michellesayshi - Congratulations!!!!!!! May the Lord continue to bless your family!! I’m not sure how I can be so happy for someone I don’t know, but I am! 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Kate @ home,family & all the craziness in between - congratulations!! he is perfect!!!! best of luck to you guys!!ReplyCancel

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  • Christie - Congratulations! Blessed be the Lord and Praise God for Levi! Levi is beautiful! I am so happy for you both!

    Christie in Las VegasReplyCancel

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  • Amanda - Congratulations Macs! What a beautiful baby Levi is…and so very blessed!ReplyCancel

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  • emily - congratulations to your family! 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Our Family... - Congratulations! We will continue to cover your sweet family in prayers. Blessings to you all!ReplyCancel

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  • Mrs. P - I have been following your journey since i heard about Cora and am just soooo happy to see you two with your new son. He is beautiful!! Much love to you!!ReplyCancel

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  • Alli - This comment has been removed by the author.ReplyCancel

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  • Alli - Tears of joy for your beautiful family… What wonderful news and what a gorgeous boy! Congrats!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • JulieA - Congrats on a beautiful baby boy. I got goosebumps reading this post… our God is truly faithful. God bless you both for sharing your story and His love!!ReplyCancel

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  • This is the day! - Congratulations!
    What a doll baby, he is adorable. Praying for your sweet family.
    Welcome to the world baby Levi!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Christina - Congratulations! My eyes welled up with tears as well, seeing how happy you are in the photo. This little guy will bring such joy to your lives! Can’t wait to READ all about it! hehe

    God Bless!ReplyCancel

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  • Rachel - Congratulations!!!! That’s one very lucky little man to have you as parents! 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Heather - YEAH Jess and Joel!

    I am praying for you! What a great picture! Welcome little Levi!

    HeatherReplyCancel

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  • Miranda - Awww!!! Congrats!! He’s adorable! Welcome little man!ReplyCancel

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  • Amy - I, like so many others, have been checking ridiculously often to hear the good news. So glad Levi is here! What a beautiful little boy and sweet, sweet family… Congratulations!!

    And you DO look amazing!! 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - 01022010…Cool birthday…it’s the same forward as it is backwards!!! He is PRECIOUS!!! I can’t wait for more pictures. Rest-up mommy and daddy! I’ll bet you can’t wait to bring this little man home! God bless you!ReplyCancel

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  • Sharon - Wishing you,Joel and baby Levi peace and many blessings as you begin your journey together! Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I am saying congrats with a big lump in my throat. I can’t imagine the emotions you are experiencing. Many blessings to you and Joel.ReplyCancel

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  • Rachel - Congratulations and Welcome Levi! May God bless you all!!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Oh..is there an address that your blog followers could send gifts to? Even if it is not your own (I know it is a little scarey to post your address for everyone to see!)ReplyCancel

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  • Christine S. - Tears of joy! I am so happy for you and your family. Levi is absolutely adorable and precious! God has blessed you with this wonderful little angel to love. Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Lindsay - Congratulations! I am so happy for your family and I’m praying that 2010 brings you much joy as you welcome Levi to your family.ReplyCancel

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  • tami - How exciting!! We continue to hold you in our prayers!! What fun you are going to have with that precious little guy!!ReplyCancel

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  • The Sieberts - yeah!!!! so happy for you! can’t wait to meet this handsome little man…ReplyCancel

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  • Shosh - congratulations!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Stacy - OH congrats…Love the name and the smile he looks like he has on his face in the family photo of you guys!!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • thehighbargers - Congratulations on your beautiful boy! What a great name you have chosen! Levi will someday realize how blessed he is to have the two of you for his parents!ReplyCancel

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  • Brittany - Congratulations! He is simply beautiful. I love the picture of Joel kissing him, priceless!

    God bless you on this new journey with a precious baby boy! 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • KatieMGreen - congrats macs!!!!!!!!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Jennifer - Congrats!!! He’s beautiful. I know Cora is smiling from Heaven. I pray God will bless your family as much as you’ve blessed others!!ReplyCancel

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  • Lauren Kelly - YAY!!!!! congrats!!!!!! He is beautiful!!!! 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Shari - Beautiful! Just beautiful! Congratulations on your little guy, I can’t wait to watch him grow (through your blog of course!)ReplyCancel

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  • Kim - So happy for you! Praise Him for His unending faithfulness and blessing in your life! Levi is beautiful and I pray he is a comforting balm to your weary hearts. Bless you all for sharing your journey!ReplyCancel

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  • The Scott's - CONGRATULATIONS!!! He’s precious (well, maybe I should say handsome)! Can’t wait to see more pictures. God Bless you and your family on this new journey!ReplyCancel

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  • Mom to 4 Sweeties - WOW!!! Tears of joy when I saw your post! SO happy for you on the birth of your beautiful, blessed baby Boy!! Enjoy that sweet, sweet baby!!ReplyCancel

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  • Stacy - Congratulations Jess and Joel. I couldn’t be more happier for such a wonderful couple. What a little miracle little Levi is in more ways than one.

    God Bless your sweet family always!
    Stacy (Houston, TX)ReplyCancel

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  • Mindy M. Harris - Oh, I’m SO HAPPY for you guys. He is beautiful, as you all are. You all glow…with the glory of God’s goodness.
    Love to you.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congrats! He’s beautiful and you both look so happy. What a cute family!ReplyCancel

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  • Jennjilla - He’s amazing! Congrats and Happy New Year!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Tara - Congrats on your sweet, little boy!!! What a blessing!ReplyCancel

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  • Laura - Oh, Miss Cora is dancing in heaven watching you with her sweet baby brother. Welcome, precious Levi! Many blessings to your beautiful family.ReplyCancel

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  • Chesnye - Had to “check-in” before we left for church and now my make-up is all smeared!!! Tears are flowing for you and your family at the wonderful news of Levi joining your family. I can only imagine the special dance Cora is doing in heaven for her little brother!
    God bless you all!
    ChesnyeReplyCancel

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  • Bobbi Jo - Congratulations!!Thinking of you and your family today.ReplyCancel

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  • Christina - I have tears of joy for you right now. I am so happy! Congratulations on the birth of your sweet precious boy. I just know Cora would be SO proud!!!ReplyCancel

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  • amy - congratulations to you both! and what a happy new year this will be for you! sending many prayers your way today…ReplyCancel

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  • Lindy - Congratulations and God Bless you all!ReplyCancel

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  • Karina - CONGRATULATIONS!!!!! Welcome, Levi!!! I am SOOOOOO happy for all of you!ReplyCancel

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  • Lena - Wonderful news! Congratulations to your beautiful family!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - NO WAY! My jaw dropped open, I am SO HAPPY for the both of you! Congratulations. He is beautiful.ReplyCancel

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  • RB in BC - Tears of joy over here in BC too! Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations! May God bless you and your family. He is just beautiful!

    Krissy Hunecke
    Batavia, ILReplyCancel

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  • Toni :O) - Oh sweetness!!! A hearty congratulations to you both…such wonderful news to see the arrival of your beautiful bundle of boy…Levi…I LOVE his name! May this year bring you nothing but happiness and joy, joy, joy…welcome to the world of Hot Wheels sweet family! God bless you all and you both are absolutely glowing and radiant!ReplyCancel

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  • Laura - Congratulations. I’ve been following your journey for awhile now and just praying like crazy for your whole family. I wish you many precious days ahead with your new little bundle of joy. How lucky is Levi to have such a sweet angel in heaven watching over him.ReplyCancel

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  • angie c - Congrats congrats congrats! Praise to God for starting your New Year off with a sweet bundle of joy. Big sis cora is smiling down from heaven! God bless you guys!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I am SO SO SO excited for you guys! you have never met me but I have followed your blog since for a long time now. January 2nd is SUCH a special birthday… my son was born January 2nd a year ago and had a VERY SERIOUS in utero stroke before he was born… the doctors didn’t think he would live. He has! And he has done so well to God’s glory! I am thrilled with your new addition of a beautiful baby boy, and I cannot be happier that his birthday is January 2nd!!! He is beautiful! I pray you guys enjoy him so very much! I am sure that Cora is SO SO proud! -debiReplyCancel

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  • AJ - Congratulations on the beautiful boy!!!!!! 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Natalie - Oh we are so happy for you and your new bundle of joy!! Praying for you all!! Congrats!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - What a sweet Blessing for the New Year!!!
    vintagegirlatheartReplyCancel

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  • Sarah Q. - Congratulations and many blessings and best wishes your way!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - congrats honey. im so super happy for you all.ReplyCancel

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  • Falling Around - Hurray!!! I am SO happy for you guys – I’m in tears over your new blessing Levi. I can’t think of two people that deserve the blessing of a baby more than you. Praise God!

    XOXO
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  • Beckycain6 - Oh thank you, Jesus……

    Praying happy prayers for all four of you…Daddy, Mommy, Cora and little Levi.

    So happy for you all,
    BeckyReplyCancel

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  • The Mumaw's - Congrats!!! I am so happy for you !
    Amy Marinello MumawReplyCancel

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  • Sarah - CONGRATS!! He is adorable!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - That is so exciting! He is precious. I have been checking several times a day to see if there was any news. Can’t wait to see more pics of him.

    JamiReplyCancel

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  • Julie - He is adorable, I have also been checking the blog several times a day, even though you don’t know me, I am so happy for all of you!!!ReplyCancel

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  • The Buchanan Family - Congrats. I have a nephew named Levi, what a sweet name!ReplyCancel

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  • The 5 Bickies - Oh….I am so happy for you all! Welcome to your new baby…it’s going to be a great new year!

    Blessings to you all as you enjoy this time with each other!ReplyCancel

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  • Kim - Welcome little Levi! Congratulations Macs on your new addition.ReplyCancel

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  • Trish - Yay! What a wonderful way to start the new year with a blessing of a baby boy! Love and prayers to you both!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Aww, he is so sweet. :::whispering – he looks like his Mama!::: Congratulations on the new family member, what a *great* way to start the year!!ReplyCancel

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  • onlymehere - I’m sooooo happy for you! You all look so good and he’s absolutey adorable. God bless you and that new little angel!! CindyReplyCancel

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  • Sue - YAYAYAYAYAY!!! I am so thrilled to hear that your precious baby has arrived safely! So glad to meet little Levi, thanks for sharing photos, can’t wait to hear all about his progress. Good luck with this new chapter in your lives, I know it’s going to be awesome!

    Love Sue xReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations I am so happy for your family!
    KathrynReplyCancel

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  • Margaret - Welcome Levi! Oh what an amazing amazing blessing he will be to y’all! This is the best news of the new year!ReplyCancel

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  • The Nebrigs - Praise the Lord! I am so excited for you guys as well as praying.ReplyCancel

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  • Emily Craft - Congratulations! Cora is so proud to be a big sister! He is beautiful and you look stunning!ReplyCancel

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  • Anne - THRILLED for you!! He is perfect! Thank you for continuing to share your journey with all of us!ReplyCancel

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  • Sallie D - Welcome, Levi!!!! God’s richest blessings to you!ReplyCancel

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  • Ryan and Jessica - I’ve never commented before but have followed your blog praying for you and Joel often.

    Congratulations! Levi is so handsome. 🙂

    Many Blessings to you all!ReplyCancel

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  • Sonya @ Balentine Bliss - Just beautiful!! Levi is a perfect name. Prayers and many blessings to you and your family as you begin a fresh New Year with a sweet little boy. Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Trudy - So happy for you. The Lord has surely blessed your family. Cora is rejoicing on the birth of her little brother.ReplyCancel

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  • Tricia - Oh congratulations to you, Joel and Jess.
    What a sweet, precious little pumpkin.
    I look forward to seeing him grow.

    With love and prayers,
    XO*TriciaReplyCancel

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  • Sarah - YEAAAAA!!!!!!!!! Congratulations!!!!! Welcome to the world little Levi!!!! I pray this new year and new little life is a very blessed one!!!

    Praying in Nebraska,
    SarahReplyCancel

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  • Anna Marie - Oh how wonderful indeed! I am so thrilled for you two. Enjoy that little man! I hope that delivery went smoothly for you and that you are all settling in nicely. Many blessings to your family!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations to both of you. What a precious gift.ReplyCancel

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  • Stephanie - Congrats you guys! We love you!ReplyCancel

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  • Katina - Aw, congratulations!!! He is so handsome! My little Levi is 7 months….love the name! 🙂

    Praise the Lord for his mercy and lovingkindness to you and your family!ReplyCancel

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  • Angela Leaverton - i’m so excited for you!!! he is beautiful, fearfulling and wonderfully made!! lots of love and prayers from texas!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Angela Leaverton - ** fearfully 🙂 🙂 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Angela - Congradulations! Levi is precious! I am sure that sweet Cora was cheering with the Angels, celebrating her bother’s arrival! And I will continue to keep your family in my prayers as you begin your new journey.ReplyCancel

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  • gina - Congratualtions.ReplyCancel

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  • Hank and Mary - I am so very happy for you. Congratulations on the healthy arrival of Levi.ReplyCancel

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  • Jan - What wonderful news, and a beautiful picture. Words can’t express what my heart feels for your family.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Praise God! How mighty and awesome God is!!!

    What a precious little man you have in your life. My heart is overflowing with joy for you all.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - What a Blessing!!ReplyCancel

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  • Rebecca, Idaho - Welcome little Levi…. I hope you grow up to know you had a wonderful big sister!ReplyCancel

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  • Amy Tiemeier - Congratulations! He’s beautiful.ReplyCancel

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  • Kim - So happy for you! Welcome Levi! Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Michelle - Congratulations! What a beautiful blessing for your sweet family!Your blogging had been an inspiration for me… thank you!ReplyCancel

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  • RLG - I’ve been checking every day. Congratulations on your sweet baby boy. I wish you so much happiness and healing. xoxoReplyCancel

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  • kelli - congrats! so very excited for you all. constantly in our prayers. much love!ReplyCancel

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  • Sarah Furlough - He’s beautiful! Congratulations and God bless!ReplyCancel

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  • tripntwinmom - CONGRATULATIONS!

    He is beautiful!ReplyCancel

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  • Jess Reimer - Yay, I’m so glad he’s here!!!! Congratulations! You all look fabulous. I can’t wait to meet this beautiful bundle. And Jess, I would have never guessed you were carrying an 8-pound-8-ounce baby!
    Blessings to you three.ReplyCancel

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  • laney - …God bless…God bless…God bless…ReplyCancel

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  • Brittany - Jess & Joel, he is BEAUTIFUL!
    Praise God for a sweet, healthy baby boy!ReplyCancel

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  • Marla - What a precious blessing. Deep felt congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Barrett and Jen - Congratulations! He is beautiful!ReplyCancel

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  • Aiden's Mommy - He is a beautiful newborn baby. I’m so happy for you!ReplyCancel

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  • Ashley Ann - Congratulations! Levi – what an awesome name. So excited for your family, boys are so much fun!ReplyCancel

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  • Sommer - Our family has been following your blog for quite some time
    now. We were beyond thrilled to see a photo of your newest bundle. What a perfect beginning to 2010! Seeing your arms filled with a baby brings our family so much peace. We will continue to follow your honest and hopeful story while holding you all up in prayer. Never forgetting the ultimate emptiness you feel every hour of every day but also celebrating the beauty of your new baby boy.ReplyCancel

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  • Al's World - He is so precious…welcome little one into this world! Congratulations Mac family! (btw, you look AWESOME!!)ReplyCancel

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  • Christina - Congratulations! I’ve been checking everyday for your big news. So happy to see that he is here. He is beautiful. Praying for you all as you start this new journey together.ReplyCancel

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  • Mike, Sha, Kenna, & Kate - So happy for you and your beautiful boy!ReplyCancel

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  • Meredith - so happy for yall!ReplyCancel

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  • julie - Although we don’t know each other, I’ve followed your story, and I am so happy to hear that Levi is here! I am one who cried a bit, too. Thank you for sharing your story. God bless your family!ReplyCancel

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  • HighlandGhillie - congratulations! What a sweet little boy.ReplyCancel

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  • Jenny - What a way to start off the New Year! Blessings to Levi and to the proud parents from a “friend” in Ohio.ReplyCancel

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  • Katie - Congratulations!
    Wishing you and your new son all the best, thinking of your sweet daughter too.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations! My eyes filled with tears of joy when they announced the birth of Levi at church this morning. Blessings to your family!ReplyCancel

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  • Marla Taviano - Oh my goodness. I can’t believe it. I love him already. Congratulations, Jess, Joel and Cora!! We love you four!ReplyCancel

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  • Angela - I am so overwhelmed with joy for you both! Congratulations on your new journey and we will continue to lift you and your beautiful family in prayer. God bless you and your family!ReplyCancel

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  • Barclay Kathryn - Yea! Congrats!! He’s adorable and man you look great too! : )ReplyCancel

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  • The McIntyre Family - Congratulations…He’s a cutie!!! What a New Year Blessing!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Laura - I have been reading your blog for a while now, but have never commented. I just had to tell you how precious your new baby boy is. Congrats to you guys! We will be praying for you as you being this new journey in your lives.ReplyCancel

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  • yellowismyfavorite - Amazing and Happy New Year. <3

    Levi is Beautiful.ReplyCancel

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  • Alli Unruh - Yay! Congrats. What a sweet boy, and a sweet name!ReplyCancel

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  • Dawn - Yay! Congratulations! So happy for you. He is adorable!ReplyCancel

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  • Wibeche - Congratulations! I am so happy for you:)
    He is beautiful:)

    God bless you.

    Wib.ReplyCancel

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  • Liana - yahoo! Happy New Year and welcome baby Levi. Love the name, love the pictures, love the smiles on your faces. God’s Blessings to you and your little family. I know your sweet Cora is watching over her little brother.

    Congrats!ReplyCancel

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  • Liana - ps- this is silly to add, but the thought just crossed my mind…now the Cora shop will have lots of fun boy stuff too. Haha. Those of us who love your stuff but only have boys are excited to see what you and Grandma come up with (when and if you have time). Congrats again!ReplyCancel

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  • Cara - Congratulations on the birth of your sweet baby boy!!!!!!!!!!!!! May God bless your precious family!!!!!!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Kelli - I am rejoicing with you both!!!ReplyCancel

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  • thedeinesfamily - Congratulations! What a sweet baby boy.ReplyCancel

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  • Becky - Hooray!!! Congratulations. I am so happy for your family. He is beautiful!ReplyCancel

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  • Darlene R. - I don’t know that I have ever commented on here before, but I have followed your blog for awhile now. (Hope that doesn’t creep you out! :))
    Anyway, congratulations on this new little blessing that the Lord has sent your way.ReplyCancel

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  • The Stockton Crew - Oh, I am so happy for you and Joel! What a sweet way to start a new year! May God pour out his blessings on precious Levi’s life and allow you the JOY in knowing him and HIM!ReplyCancel

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  • Krystal - I am sooooo excited for y’all! What a beautiful little boy! Who has been blessed with 2 wonderful parents! Many, many blessings! Congratulations!!ReplyCancel

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  • sassy studio - you are a superstar! how did you fit that little miracle between posts! perfect, beautiful, gift from above…….the world is now a better place with your new son! Joy!
    hugs from sassy and sprout in canadaReplyCancel

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  • Sarah Damaska - Praying for you as you remember Cora . . . and make new memories with Levi . . . and somehow try to combine the two. Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Kristi - Congratulations!!!! Oh, what a handsome little boy! We are so happy for you both :). I know Cora must be smiling down from heaven at her new baby brother.ReplyCancel

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  • Allison - Congratulations!! Praise God! Your son is beautiful!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Lindsay - Congratulations!
    So happy for you guys!ReplyCancel

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  • Shannon Strong - Congratulations! I have followed your blog for quite a long time now. I am so very happy for you, what a beautiful baby boy! I will continue to pray for you and your beautiful family & faith. Hugs to you guys…-Shannon 😉ReplyCancel

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  • Kelly - Welcome Levi! Congratulations mom and dad! We will continue to lift you up in prayer! May God bless you this year!ReplyCancel

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  • Carly Winborne - what a darlin. so so happy for you and to know he’s finally here. oh the joys of little boys!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I don’t normally comment like this. But i also don’t normally weep audibly at work. congrats! i am so happy for you!ReplyCancel

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  • Micah - Yeah, yeah, YEAH!!! Congrats to the WHOLE family on a handsome little guy. Welcome to the world, Levi!ReplyCancel

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  • Courtney - Welcome baby Levi! Congratulations you guys. He is beautiful! Cora is now the proud big sister of a bay brother yeah! Congrats again and God bless all of you.
    Courtney MayfieldReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - What a sweet answer to prayer. I am the mother of six sons (14 years old down to 8 months). Thank you for sharing your life and faith with me – your faith is amazing and inspiring. Enjoy every moment with your precious son. I am a mom in the Nashville, TN area who prays for you!
    ~BeckyReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations on your little guy, how adorable!
    Love,
    Kim FreundReplyCancel

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  • cousin Deb - I am So happy for you! I am crying tears of joy for you, what a sweet boy!
    God bless you!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Leatha - You don’t me or my family but we have been following your journey and have prayed for you both. I have twin boys who know when your blog pops up for me to read they ask how Cora’s parents are doing. We are so thrilled and excited for both of you!! What a blessing!! We will be praying for you both and Levi. Congratulations and God bless you.ReplyCancel

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  • Kory Fields - How precious! Congratulations to all of you!ReplyCancel

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  • Aurora - congratulations! God bless you and your precious family!ReplyCancel

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  • gwswenson - Welcome, sweet Levi!!! What a beautiful blessing. Enjoy every moment with your precious baby boy.ReplyCancel

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  • Lori - Congratulations! How blessed you are and how blessed we are to celebrate with you.
    LoriReplyCancel

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  • Allie in AZ - Wa-hoo! Praise God from whom all blessings flow! I am delighted to hear of Levi’s safe arrival and wish only God’s riches blessings on you as you begin your journey with your son. Cora is smiling down on you, you can bet on it.

    Smiling through tears for you,
    Allie in AZReplyCancel

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  • Kelly - Conrats and welcome baby Levi! He is so lucky to have you all as his parents! love and hugs!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - YAY for y’all. Happy Journey.ReplyCancel

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  • Lindsay - Congrats! I’ve never commented on your blog but oh what a joy and inpiration you are to me! I love his name, his beautiful face, and the thought of his older sister praising God!

    Blessings,
    LindsayReplyCancel

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  • Geo - Congratulations!!!!!! xxxReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congrats on Levi! He is very blessed to have you as parents!ReplyCancel

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  • Sarah - What a perfect way to start out the New Year. So happy for you. He is precious! Love that pic of him and Daddy. Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Angie - Perfect start to a new year…congratulations McClenahans!ReplyCancel

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  • Michelle - Welcome Levi, he has a birthday buddy in Ohio. My son Shane turned 20 January 2 and has been the biggest blessing in my life. I thought all along a little angel named Cora had put a word in for a little brother! God bless, enjoy!ReplyCancel

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  • Lacie and Stephen - Congratulations! What a beautiful family and welcome to the world Levi! This will not take away all of the hurts you have from you loss of Cora. It may even renew some of them. It will however bring joy in your time of saddness and grief. Rejoicing with you!

    Lacie Hutchins
    Wichita,KSReplyCancel

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  • Ruthie - I don’t comment often anymore, but I am an avid reader of your blog, having followed you since shortly after you lost Cora. I am simply moved to tears seeing your new bundle of joy – Levi! What a sweet boy. Praying as you all transition into this new journey of parenthood. God bless you all!

    RuthieReplyCancel

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  • The Mommy - Welcome baby Levi! Enjoy your new little gift. I know it’s a new journey that has a touch of bittersweet to it, but I’m sure there is a rhyme and reason as to why it’s YOUR journey. Congratulations and best wishes for happiness and joy in the coming years!ReplyCancel

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  • Stacy - WOW!! i’m so happy for u guys… been following ur blog since this past march………u’ve been in my prayers…..and will continue to be!! congrats!!ReplyCancel

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  • Dawn - oh! Congratulations you guys! How wonderful. I’m pretty busy these days but always checking in on you guys from time to time. I still miss Cora, even though I only knew her thru your blog. But from a Mommy with a just turned 3 yr old daughter I can not imagine the pain you guys have had to deal with. I’m so glad you have a new normal to get used to. Congrats on Levi! And Happy New Year. What a great way to start 2010 off!ReplyCancel

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  • Trish - so sweet. congratulations. i love his name. 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Cabra Clan - As if you’ll have time to read all of these comments with a newborn…but CONGRATS anyway!! I am teary eyed and joyful for you and so excited for your new journey with your son! Hope he blesses you with lots of sleep 🙂 I had hoped our babes might share a birthday since they shared a due date so close but Kaylee arrived 3 weeks early!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - What a beautiful blessing and perfect way to begin a new year!
    I continue to follow your blog because you are so inspiring to me. I wish you and your family all the best in 2010 and for many years to come. I know Cora is watching you all from heaven and is so excited about her new baby brother. Levi is a great name too! Take care of yourselves and enjoy every minute with your wonderful family.
    xoxo,
    from a stranger in WIReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Levi “Joined in Harmony” … how perfect…I pray that your entire family will be joined in harmony and peace in 2010. Welcome Levi and congratulations Macs!
    Much love,
    Amanda in NCReplyCancel

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  • Rachel - Warmest congratulations, Jessica and Joel. Levi is beautiful!ReplyCancel

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  • Brooke - Congrats from FREEZING COLD Baltimore!ReplyCancel

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  • Samantha - CONGRATULATIONS!!

    I’m tearing up over here at such a incredible blessing to start the new year!

    PS. His name is adorable, love it!ReplyCancel

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  • Erin - Congratulations! What a blessing. Have been following you and your blog for about a year now and it is so wonderful to see you and your hubby so truly happy. May God bless you all in 2010!ReplyCancel

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  • Lindsay - I’ve been following your blog for about a year now, but haven’t commented until now. Congratulations on the addition of Levi to your family. What a blessing!ReplyCancel

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  • FaceforGrace - Just the sight of the picture literally took my breath away! Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations on your beautiful gift from God! He is adorable. We lost our first daughter and the feeling of loss is indescribable. We have since been blessed with another child and the amount of joy that has returned into our lives is enormous. I pray the same for your beautiful family!!

    Kelly in TexasReplyCancel

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  • Jon (dh) - He is beautiful! Congratulations! I love his name!…rachelReplyCancel

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  • torinem - Congratulations! January 2nd is a great day to be born (my birthday, too!). What a sweet an precious gift he is!ReplyCancel

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  • torinem - Congratulations! January 2nd is a great day to be born (my birthday, too!). What a sweet an precious gift he is!ReplyCancel

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  • Melissa - So beautiful, so perfect, a blessing sent from heaven!ReplyCancel

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  • Sherryl - So happy for you and Joel – congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • mEET - cogratulations!!!!!! i wish you 3all the luck in the world! he is beuatiful!ReplyCancel

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  • Tasha Roe - congratulations!! I have been thinking and praying for you guys for so long! what a joyful blessing little Levi is! Happy New Year!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Heidi - Congratulations! So happy for you!ReplyCancel

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  • JC - Congratulations and God Bless your family. What a sweet baby boy!!! So very happy for you. Your blog post made my day!!!ReplyCancel

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  • The Brack's - Congratulations!!!! He is absolutely adorable, I am so happy for you both!ReplyCancel

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  • molly - Congratulations! January second is an important day in our home too. My youngest turned three. Levi is beauty-ful!ReplyCancel

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  • Ohtobebeautiful - Congratulations!! What a wonderful name 🙂 He is so beautiful and I just know that Cora and all the angels are celebrating her baby brother in heaven! God bless you all!ReplyCancel

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  • awalker7 - God Bless you Joel and Jess and your new son Levi. We are so happy for you as you begin this new journey, thank you for sharing your wonderful news with all of us faithful blog followers:)

    The Walkers
    Augusta, KsReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations!!!!!!! Levi is so beautiful. I couldn’t be happier for you guys!

    Love from Michigan,

    RachelReplyCancel

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  • Squirpy Momma - Beautiful baby, beautiful family…congrats on your new little love!!!

    NancyReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations! Loving this baby will truely honor your sweet Cora. I hope that his presence helps to heal both you and your families. Bless you!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Praising God with you! Also recognizing the aching in your heart among the intense joy. Continue to allow God to lead on. He is with you!ReplyCancel

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  • The Perfect Trio - Congratulations!!! He is just precious!!!

    MelissaReplyCancel

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  • alissa - Congratulations on your beautiful son!ReplyCancel

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  • Suzy Q - Congratulations and Welcome Levi!! So happy for you all!ReplyCancel

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  • Kelly - I cried seeing your pictures! Congratulations Jess and Joel! Levi is just so handsome! I am so happy for you guys!ReplyCancel

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  • Christy - Congratulations! He is adorable!ReplyCancel

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  • Tabitha - He’s perfect. What a blessing from the Lord, He does all things well.ReplyCancel

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  • Marcela - I have tears in my eyes seeing that beautiful picture of your new new son.

    Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • MomMom - Congratulations! I really like the name and can’t wait to see more pictures. I’m sure Cora is one happy big sister smiling down on Levi and all of you. So thankful Levi is here safe and sound.ReplyCancel

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  • Jamie - So happy for you! Little boys are sweet and they love their Mommys so much!ReplyCancel

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  • Andrea - Congratulations! He is beautiful and will be a true blessing to your family! (I have followed your blog for a long time and have been praying for you all and Baby Mac.)ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Jess,

    I have been following your blog since I read about you on Etsy last February. Your words are always so beautiful and powerful. Thank you for sharing His word and for the strength you give to others. I wish you joy and continued hope.

    A fellow mother in VirginiaReplyCancel

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  • The Finnans - Congrats! He is adorable! God Bless your little family! 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Ashley - Congrats on your beautiful baby boy! I’m so incredibly happy that God has brought such a blessing to your lives! What a great way to start the new year 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • MellieBob - Congratulations!!! God is so good! Welcome, baby Levi!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - He’s perfect. …wonderfully & fearfully made! Congratulations on your newest addition. God Bless!

    ~Destin, FloridaReplyCancel

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  • The Hopkins Home - What a beautiful little guy! Tears of joy for all of you – what a wonderful way to start the new year! God’s richest blessings to you and little Levi! Congratulations from Michigan 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Polka Dot Moon - Welcome beautiful boy! Congratulations!! His big sister is smiling with the Angels 🙂
    DeniseReplyCancel

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  • Jane In The Jungle - YAY!!!!!!
    Congrats!! All of y’all look great!ReplyCancel

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  • Andrea - Congratulations! I’m so very happy for you both. I can’t wait to hear more!ReplyCancel

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  • danielle - Congratulations on your beautiful baby boy! Best wishes on your new journey with your little miracle:) God Bless!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I have never commented on your blog and I can’t really remember how I found you – a friend of a friend of a friend type of thing most likely. I have checked in on you here and there since Cora got sick and you have often been in my prayers. Congratulations on your sweet new baby boy!! My brother and his wife just had a boy on January 2 as well. Their son (Jaxon) was born at 12:28 pm – in Rogers, Arkansas, about an hour before Levi. I don’t know why I clicked on your blog tonight and when I saw you had your baby at about the same time my nephew was born I got goosebumps for some reason. I just wanted to wish you all the best. You have such a sweet personality I have truly been inspired by you. Happy New Year – I hope many happy days are ahead of you!

    Sheri Fuhrman
    Fort Smith, ArkansasReplyCancel

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  • in a world surrounded by men - What a beautiful boy! Congratulations. I love his name!ReplyCancel

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  • Christine - YAY!! Praise the Lord! I’m so very excited for you guys! Levi is the most precious thing! Congratulations to your sweet family 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Eileen - I have followed your blog forever, but never commented before. Congratulations! he is beautiful!ReplyCancel

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  • i love plum - yiPPPeeeee!!!! congrats you two + 1!!! levi…so cute!!! xoReplyCancel

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  • susy m - Uwhat a wonderful god. He is beautiful
    And Cora is so proud. God bless you all.ReplyCancel

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  • Sarah - Congratulations! He’s perfect.. what a beautiful start to the new year!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Praise God!
    Praise HIM for your TWO AMAZING babes!!
    Praying for you all!
    Blessings from Colorado!ReplyCancel

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  • Jennifer - So, so happy for you guys! God bless!!!
    Jennifer Watson
    Auburn, ALReplyCancel

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  • The Shepherd Family - Congrats!!! What a wonderful way to start the new year!!ReplyCancel

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  • Kristin - Wow! What a beautiful surprise to stop by your blog and see your sweet little boy! Congratulations. He is precious and I love his name too!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Oh my, Levi is so sweet. What a blessing from God! All the best wishes and prayers for you as you welcome your new little one. Congratulations!

    DianeReplyCancel

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  • Christian Carroll Stewart - So happy for you and your precious little boy! What a blessing! Congrats!ReplyCancel

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  • harpw716 - Yeah!!! How exciting. I knew that it was going to be a sweet little boy!!!!! God Bless your family!!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Mrs.Ardiano - Congratulations…. Levi is gorgeous, handsome, and ever so blessed to have a big sister like Cora watching him from above. God blessReplyCancel

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  • The Noble Steeds - My heart is so happy for you too! Congratulations! Welcome little Levi. You are one lucky baby!ReplyCancel

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  • Shanda - Oh my goodness! I have been checking daily to see if baby had come yet or not. He is absolutely beautiful and I am so happy for you guys. Welcome little Levi! Cora is up there looking down at you all and proud to be a big sister.ReplyCancel

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  • Sharon - Praise God for a gorgeous baby boy! Congrats….ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I am so so so so happy for you and Joel! A bouncing baby boy! So exciting!

    Levi is beautiful!

    Congratulations!

    CarrieReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - CONGRATS ON THE BIRTH OF —

    JONH DEERE MCCLEHEHAN

    HE IS AS CUTE AS HIS DAD!

    LOVE
    NATALIAReplyCancel

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  • Melissa - I got goosebumps…Congrats on your sweet baby boy!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - JESS,

    IS THAT HOW YOU SPELL MCCLEHEHAN? I CAN’T RECALL. I THINK THAT IS HOW YOU USED TO SPELL IT? Hmmmmm…

    Your Bestie,
    NataliaReplyCancel

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  • Miss G - I just had to come back and look at him again! He is just so, so sweet! KellyReplyCancel

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  • Morgan - Happy Tears!! He is precious!! Congrats!ReplyCancel

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  • Lindsay - What a perfect way to start off the New Year! Congrats on your new addition to your sweet family. I have been reading your blog for a while now and just had to say how happy I am for you!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congrats!!! I am so excited for you guys! He is beautiful!ReplyCancel

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  • Be My Chickadee - You have friends in Christ all over the world who are lifting you up in prayer while praising God for his blessings. Congratulations on the birth of your 2nd child.ReplyCancel

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  • Bill and Mary - COngratulations!!! Welcome Levi!!! He is gorgeous!

    Much love,
    MaryReplyCancel

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  • Kate - Congratulations!! Beautiful baby, beautiful family. You are deserving of every ounce of joy, peace and love that comes into your life. I hope you have some small sense of the depth of feeling that you inspire.ReplyCancel

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  • Melissa Joy - I am weeping over this beautiful family! God is faithful. May this new little brother be a continual blessing in your home.
    We are praying for you in the days ahead. May the Lord grant His grace to let you reap with joy what you have sown in tears.
    The Lord bless you all.ReplyCancel

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  • Tristan - congrats! he is precious!ReplyCancel

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  • JustMommer - God bless your precious family. Welcome Baby Mac, Levi! Cora is watching over you from heaven and Levi will always have his own angel,his big sister.ReplyCancel

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  • James' Full House - Praise God from whom all blessings flow. You are all in my prayers.
    He is beautiful!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations to you both on your sweet little boy! Levi is a wonderful name, and I wish you and your family nothing but joy and abundant blessings in the future!ReplyCancel

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  • texasinafrica - Congratulations! He’s perfect. You look wonderful! Rejoicing with you and praying for good rest and peace in your hearts as you prepare to take him home.ReplyCancel

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  • Dina - Congratulations! He is adorable.ReplyCancel

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  • sara - beautiful Levi…what a blessing!ReplyCancel

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  • Lindsay - Congratulations on your new bundle of joy. I have read your blog periodically since hearing about your precious Cora through another parenting billboard. I have never posted but your story has touched me. I have been checking daily these last few wks to see when your precious new baby would arrive. I have not experienced losing a child but I too have a son and I myself almost lost my life this summer to an accident. I still cry everytime I think about how he almost had to grow up without his mother. I fought hard and came out with a few less organs but am still here to continue my duties as a mom to my precious little boy. I hope your new son is just the most wonderful baby and I hope he grows up wanting to hear stories of his big sister.ReplyCancel

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  • beth - I have been reading your blog for a while. I am so thrilled about the news of the birth of your precious baby boy. You and your husband have been through more than most people can imagine and have shown such grace and unwavering faith. God Bless you both and your precious baby boy!ReplyCancel

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  • cupcakefitz - I am so, so happy for you and your family. I think of you often and keep you in my prayers.ReplyCancel

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  • Sophia - He is beautiful. Many blessings to you guys!! He’s so cute, just like his big sister.ReplyCancel

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  • Michelle - Congratulations!! Levi is absolutely beautiful!!ReplyCancel

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  • Stacy Lord - Yay! Congrats Joel and Jess. What a precious little boy! Wishing you all the best. I know Cora is watching over you all and adoring her new baby brother.ReplyCancel

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  • Mary Vigil - Praise Jesus –ReplyCancel

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  • Susie from Bienvenue - Welcome sweet baby~ReplyCancel

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  • Amy - I don’t leave many comments here, but I just had to say congratulations and he is so gorgeous! What an awesome blessing!ReplyCancel

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  • Sandys2girls - SO VERY HAPPY FOR YOU AND THE NEWEST BLESSING TO YOUR FAMILY!! CORA MUST BE A VERY PROUD BIG SISTER!!! GOD BLESS YOU ALL!! ENJOY THAT PRECIOUS LITTLE ONE!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Cori - Congratulations! He is absolutely precious. Welcome to the world Levi!ReplyCancel

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  • nennermommy - ((tears)) Congrats mommy and Daddy! YOu make beautiful babies!!!ReplyCancel

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  • 3boysmom - Congratulations! What a beautiful name for a precious baby boy. He is a doll. I am SO happy for you.ReplyCancel

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  • Lindsey - God is so, so good! Congratulations! God could not have blessed a more wonderful couple with such a beautiful miracle!ReplyCancel

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  • Mommy2Sophia - What wonderful news! Enjoy sweet baby Levi, he’s so adorable!

    LisaReplyCancel

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  • Emmy - PreciousReplyCancel

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  • Amy - He is so beautiful. Welcome, sweet Levi. I don’t know your parents personally, but you are the luckiest little guy… your mommy and daddy are amazing! And you have a fantastic big sister!

    Always remembering your sweet family in prayer. Please remember, that no matter what, Cora will NEVER be forgotten.

    Congratulations on your sweet son! (And, Jess, you look fantastic!)ReplyCancel

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  • macalla - how exciting!! congratulations to the both of you! he’s beautiful.ReplyCancel

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  • Janine - Congratulations. You don’t know me but I stumbled upon your blog a while ago and have been following it ever since. Your strength and courage have inspired me. I was so happy to see the picture of little Levi. His big sister is surely smiling down on him from Heaven. You and your family deserve much happiness. Thank you for sharing your journey with all of us. God Bless the Macs.ReplyCancel

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  • tifRN - i am SO happy for you guys! i immediately texted everyone at work to let them know that cora’s brother was here! he’s BEAUTIFUL and i know cora is just so proud of the brother she helped pick out. i wrote about you guys, too. congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Gene and Annie - Congratulations Mac Family!!! I am rejoicing with you in his birth and praying for this new year to bring you much needed rest and joy!! Praying for you guys!ReplyCancel

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  • L ~ S - Congrats! So he wasn’t born on my birthday, but a friend’s 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Robin Cotton - I so needed the joy that filled me when I saw your post tonight . I am so happy for your sweet family . God is so good !ReplyCancel

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  • Emma and Company - Congratulations…love the name! He is so darling. What a sweet brother for Cora 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Kris Reed - Congratulations, Joel and Jess! I was SOOO excited to hear the wonderful news on the 2nd. Ivy texted me to let me know of the birth of Levi Jerald. I can’t wait to see him and YOU in person. I love you both and continue to pray for you as you walk the journey God has set before you.ReplyCancel

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  • Marsha - Congratulations on your new baby! God is good!

    Love and prayers

    Marsha in VAReplyCancel

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  • Megan - Welcome to the world Levi. God bless this new little life.ReplyCancel

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  • kimalli1 - SO happy for you! What a beautiful boy.
    KimReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I’m so excited for you! He’s adorable. As a mother of 4 boys, I must tell you that everything you own will now be dirty or broken:) It is worth it! Happy New Year my sweet sister!
    AshleyReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - PS…one of my 4 boys is Levi, too!ReplyCancel

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  • Katy & Ross - Congratulations! I love his name 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I am so excited for your family. He is beautiful in every way!ReplyCancel

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  • Amy Bell - congratulations!!! i love his name!!! such a beautiful picture….so happy for you….what a little miracle…ReplyCancel

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  • Just Beachy - I am so thrilled for you .ReplyCancel

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  • The Jones' - Congrats!!!! I am so happy for you and Joel 🙂 What a blessing!ReplyCancel

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  • Kristen - Welcome, Levi! God bless! 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Jen - welcome sweet Levi! I love his name… just precious picture of him and daddy.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Praise God for Levi and for you wonderful people who I don’t know but admire so very much!

    AmyReplyCancel

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  • Brittny - Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!! I’ve been praying for you and your sweet family!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Megan - Congratulations on the birth of your little man! He is absolutely precious and it must be such a relief to have him here with you!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations on your beautiful baby boy, Levi!!!

    BTW, do you have a sister? Someone looks like you that’s on the ProActive commercial. The girl from the commercial said she’s from Kansas. When I first saw the girl, I thought it was you. Just wondering.

    Congratulations again!!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow!

    The doxology flooded my heart and tears of joy came to my eyes when I saw your post on Jan. 2. I have never commented before but have prayed for your family often. Welcome Levi!

    Rachel BarronReplyCancel

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  • Laurie - Awesome! God is Good! I never have left a comment, but I am so excited for your family! May you find peace and comfort through this transition! Cora’s story has had such an impact on so many lives! I’m sure her little brother will love hearing about the lives changes by her sweet life! Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Karen - What a joy!ReplyCancel

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  • Marty and Kim - Congratulations! So happy for the both of you….what a blessing!ReplyCancel

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  • Stephanie - He is too sweet and YOU look fantastic!!! God bless your little family!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Kate - Praise the Lord! Congratulations and welcome Levi!ReplyCancel

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  • Miss Em - Welcome sweet baby. Congratulations! He is beautiful! What a wonderful Happy New Year!ReplyCancel

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  • The Gleasons - Congratulations to your sweet family. I am so overjoyed that you have been blessed with a beautiful little boy! Happy 2010!ReplyCancel

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  • tiggerjd3 - Congratulations on your new baby!! He is beautiful..ReplyCancel

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  • Claudia - After all you’ve been through seeing this picture, this sweet baby boy in your arms … all I can do is cry, the emotions are flowing and I’m thankful for this baby in your lives.

    God Bless all of you!ReplyCancel

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  • Audrey - Congratulations! Welcome, Levi! I’m sure Cora was right there helping our wonderful Maker as he was being created.ReplyCancel

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  • bagfashionista - congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • LL - Many congratulations to you both as you welcome Levi! What a wonderful way to start the new year! Just think, Cora got to see him first!ReplyCancel

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  • amyflew - Congratulations! I am sooo happy for all of you! May the Lord continue to bless and watch over you family 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Hair Bows & Guitar Picks - Welcome baby Levi! I am so happy for you both 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • HannahM - I was so delighted to read your sweet news. Welcome Levi! We’ll be praying for you and Joel.ReplyCancel

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  • surprisetriplets - Welcome little Levi! He came right on his due date just like my son. Have a wonderful time getting to know your little guy:)ReplyCancel

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  • tania - congrats macs! He is a little doll.ReplyCancel

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  • Missy - he’s beautiful! i’m so happy for you 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congrats! Blessings to your family.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - so happy for you guys! COngrats!!
    jeffandkeriboyd.blogspot.comReplyCancel

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  • MyLinda - Congratulations to your precious family!ReplyCancel

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  • The Carrolls - Welcome sweet baby! He is so beautiful. Congratulations on your new journey!ReplyCancel

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  • Ann - I’m so happy for you both. Congratulations. You all look so wonderful. Praise God for the new little blessing.ReplyCancel

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  • Lisa Curcio - Congratulations! He is beautiful!!ReplyCancel

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  • Kristin - Congratulations and welcome to the world, Baby Levi!ReplyCancel

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  • Baylee and Blair's page - Congrats!

    Levi, you have the most amazing parents! You are a lucky little boy!

    He is ADORABLE!

    Hugs – TiffanyReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - CONGRATS!! What a little doll!!
    CarleyReplyCancel

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  • lil miss' mama - Congratulations! What a lucky little boy Levi is to have you two as his parents and Cora as his big sister! God’s blessings on your family now and always.ReplyCancel

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  • Erica - Congratulations. Boys will melt a mother’s heart. May you be filled with peace and joy in 2010 with Levi.ReplyCancel

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  • Jennifer C - Oh my word, he is gorgeous!
    Congratulations on your beautiful baby boy!!ReplyCancel

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  • SRA - Congrats, he is beautiful. Excited to follow along on your new journey!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations on such a wonderful blessing!

    Hugs ~
    Michelle, St. Louis, MOReplyCancel

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  • Jamie and Joy George - Congratulations!! Very exciting news. We pray God’s blessing in this “new journey”. I enjoy reading your blog and seeing how God continues to work in your life.
    Joy (Claassen) GeorgeReplyCancel

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  • April Swarthout - Congrats!! Praying for your family.ReplyCancel

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  • Andrea - Congratulations! Praising God for the new ways he will bless you with this little man.ReplyCancel

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  • Jeremy & Katie - Yay! Congratulations to your sweet family on the birth of little LeviReplyCancel

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  • Jessatsea - congratulations!!! Little boys are wonderful and what a great way to start a new year!ReplyCancel

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  • Suzanne - Congrats you guys! He is wonderful! I’m sure that his big sister is so proud of him!ReplyCancel

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  • Bri!!! - I totally got all teary when I saw the pictures because of the thought of your new journey you are about to begin. I’m so happy you have another baby in your arms. While it wont make things “all better” it will allow your mother heart to love even more! God bless your beautiful family. I can’t wait to hear about the birth!ReplyCancel

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  • Juliann - Welcome baby levi; praying for you and your family today…hope and joy for you!

    Juliann
    Gurnee, ILReplyCancel

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  • Adventures on the Farm - Oh CONGRATULATIONS…..what a wonderful way to start off the New Year’s.

    He is beautiful and just think he has the best guardian angel a boy could ask for!!ReplyCancel

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  • KyndraRenae - Congratulations!!! Levi is precious. Idk if you need any boys things, but my son is 6 months old and I have alot of baby boys things that he never even used if you would like them. I live 15 min from newton…. For some reason I thought it was a boy idk why but i did lol.ReplyCancel

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  • hopefuls #1 - My eyes just welled up with tears… what an amazing picture and what a happy little family.

    I’m so happy that he’s here and I wish you all the best of luck while adjusting…

    Love the name too!!ReplyCancel

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  • Angela - Congrats on your new baby boy! Enjoy every second!ReplyCancel

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  • Lindsay - Congratulations! Wahoo! Ryan is really excited for a boy. I would anticipate some sort of tractor in your future! Welcome little Levi.ReplyCancel

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  • judith - Man! 642 comments! I had to make it one more having followed your story for a while. Congratulations and welcome to little Levi. A sweet little soul. Sending love and good wishes from Scotland. xReplyCancel

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  • Rachel Bobalik - Welcome to the world sweet Levi! Congratulations! He is absolutely beautiful!

    God’s blessings to you all!ReplyCancel

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  • jorgy - Congratulations!! I have followed your blog for quite sometime and have shed many tears and said many prayers in your behalf! I am so happy for your new precious little blessing and will continue to pray for your healing as you start your new journey!!ReplyCancel

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  • Holly - Congratulations on the birth of Levi!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations!!!!

    I’ve been waiting and watching….welcome baby Levi!

    I’m sure your big sister Cora will be watching over you from heaven.ReplyCancel

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  • Laura - Ex. Dir. - Many congratulations and blessings to you!ReplyCancel

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  • Nadine - The heavens are singing and the angels are surronding your blessed family.Cora is rejoicing in heaven with all of you and proud to be a big sister. Praise God. Congratulations! Tears of joy are flowing and sending you much love from Canada!ReplyCancel

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  • Jamie - Congrats! I started reading your blog months ago and I keep checking back every week (or more!). I have told so many people your inspirational story. I put myself in your shoes and wonder if I would have had been so great to God. God bless you and your family on your exciting, new journey. May 2010 bring you continued love and happiness.ReplyCancel

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  • Elizabeth - Congratulations! Levi is absolutely beautiful!ReplyCancel

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  • Kim - God bless you all and welcome Levi!ReplyCancel

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  • Kelly @ The Beauty of Sufficient Grace - Thank you Jesus…what a beautiful blessing! Rejoicing, rejoicing, rejoicing with you!ReplyCancel

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  • ricky - Yeah! Congratulations!! We are so excited for you! Know that we continue to pray for you guys!
    Ricky and KristenReplyCancel

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  • Tonya - Congratulations! Best wishes for some rest and enjoying that cute little man of yours!ReplyCancel

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  • Tsquared417 - Congratulations! Tears of Joy for you!!ReplyCancel

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  • Amanda - I am so happy for you both! Nothing but prayers and well wishes!!ReplyCancel

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  • Megan - I am so happy to hear about Levi’s safe arrival! (did you know beforehand that he was a boy? If so, I missed that)

    God bless your sweet family!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - May God Bless your precious little family. Wonderful news that baby Levi has arrived safely. Now, let your heart be at peace. All is well.

    Congratulations!

    Margaret, Virginia Beach, VAReplyCancel

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  • Dawn Eshnaur - Congratulations on your baby boy! God is Good!!ReplyCancel

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  • The McBrayer family - He is just beautiful and perfect! I have been following your blog for quite a while now! Rejoicing with you and your new miracle! Congratulations from the very bottom of my heart!
    KelliReplyCancel

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  • Misty Rice - Oh my world….. this TOTALLY brightened up my horrible day. Congrats and what a beautiful little brother he is.

    YEA!!!!!!!

    SO EXCITED. SO EXCITED…ReplyCancel

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  • Jody - Yea!! Congrats on Levi’s arrival!!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - A long time reader, first time poster here…congratulations! I was so thrilled to see your post and picture. He is beautiful. My prayers will be with your family. May God continue to bless you all!!ReplyCancel

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  • Debbie - Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • vonFRINKenhagen - Congratulations! Enjoy your sweet boy!ReplyCancel

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  • rmfox - I too have been a “lurker” for quite sometime. What a wonderful way to start a New Year with a beautiful baby boy!! He is soooo cute!! May 2010 bring nothing but joy to your family!!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - So Happy for all of you. May this overwhelming joy help you – in so many ways! Love from someone you’ve never met!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Like many others, I have been following your blog for a year now. I am so thrilled for you – Levi is a beautiful baby!!! I love the name 🙂 Thank you so much for showing me that it is possible to be faithful during the darkest times in life. I have never actually seen someone still praise God even through the most devastating of circumstances. You and your husband have really opened my eyes and caused me to draw closer to God. Levi is incredibly blessed to have you as parents. I know that I am blessed for having stumbled across your blog and for getting to “know” your family 🙂 Congratulations!
    AshleyReplyCancel

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  • Kara and the Oosterhous Boys - God’s blessings will flow out of that little bundle of love and I know that he will be a soothing balm for a wounded soul. I have 3 little boys and they are a mother’s joy. Congratulations and welcome to the world Levi!ReplyCancel

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  • Lexie Loo & Dylan Too - Congratulations! Welcome to the world, Levi!
    He is perfect and beautiful!
    I am so happy for you!ReplyCancel

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  • Brian and Staci - Oh so very very happy for you both!!!!! Welcome Levi 🙂 May God BLESS your little family!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Erin - he’s beautiful!!! congratulations; I’m so happy for the two of you. You will continue to be in my prayers.ReplyCancel

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  • Allison - I read your blog often but have never commented. Wanted to say congratulations to you & your husband & your beautiful baby boy! No doubt that Cora is smiling & looking down from Heaven & so proud to be a big sister!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations… I am so happy for you! What a beautiful baby boy. Best wishes!ReplyCancel

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  • Jess - Congratulations!

    We almost named our son Levi, decided on Benjamin instead. I’m sure you know that Levi means “joined”…how perfect!ReplyCancel

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  • rhinz - Congratulations!!! Welcome to Levi!!! We’re so very, very excited and praise the Lord for his safe arrival and his life! Cora must be enjoying the look of “joy” on your faces…bless you all!
    Joe and RosemaryReplyCancel

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  • rhinz - Congratulations!!! Welcome to Levi!!! We’re so very, very excited and praise the Lord for his safe arrival and his life! Cora must be enjoying the look of “joy” on your faces…bless you all!
    Joe and RosemaryReplyCancel

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  • CinderellaMommy - Congratulations!!!!!!! Your announcement brought tears of JOY to my eyes – not that we all haven’t been expecting this one any day! Praying that all is well with your beautiful baby boy & lovely family. His big sister is SURELY smiling down upon him from her place in our Heavenly Father’s arms!

    Happy New Year to You All!ReplyCancel

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  • Monick S. - Congratulations ! Baby levi is beautiful and what a day to be born on my birthday! lolReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Oh, praise the Lord! He is so beautiful! Congratulations!!

    Melinda in HoustonReplyCancel

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  • Marie - Congratulations you two. Levi will always know of his beautiful older sister Cora.ReplyCancel

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  • Lisa - congrats! Levi is beautiful.ReplyCancel

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  • Krystal - Okay, so I’m two days late. I’m glad God was on duty and was taking care of things! Seriously, I know He’s always on duty.

    Congratulations!!! I’m thrilled for all of you, and I’m delighted to say I have a niece born just one day before Levi. 2010 is looking su-weet!ReplyCancel

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  • Kelli - He is beautiful! Congratulations!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Ruth - Such wonderful, good news!! God Bless all of you!!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - congratulations, I’ve been reading your blog for a while now and pray that this little fella will be a blessing to his mum and dad and a joy to your whole family.

    thank you so much for your willingness to share this journey in all it’s pain, and joy with so many, your story has indeed encouraged me in my faith, to trust that truly God is with us always.

    he truely is a good God!!

    much love jane
    janelockrey(at)gmail(dot)comReplyCancel

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  • Marlene W. - Oh beautiful baby Levi! My heart is just overflowing with joy for you. This wonderful news truly made my day! And I’m partial to baby boys born on January 2nd – my own son just turned 6 on Levi’s birthday. Having a little boy is the best way to start a new year 🙂 Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Julie - Welcome Levi – he is precious. I am rejoicing with you both…and know Cora is with you on this new journey.

    Hugs and prayers.ReplyCancel

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  • The Wilsons - Blessings and prayers. So glad he is here!ReplyCancel

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  • NancyG - He is beautiful!! May God bless you and your new little bundle of joy!ReplyCancel

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  • Meg - Oh my! What a perfectly handsome little man! I love his name, Levi! Congratulations and many blessings!ReplyCancel

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  • CourtneyC - Congrats on a precious boy. I LOVE the name!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - What a beautiful blessing to you both! Many happy days ahead!ReplyCancel

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  • Jessica - Congratulations Jess, Joel, and angel big sister Cora. He is gorgeous!ReplyCancel

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  • Cottage Mommy - Soooo happy for the two of you…tearing up as I write this…God is so faithful and good and you have been a testament to that this past year and such an encouragement to so many people. Levi is beautiful! Boys are so much fun (I have two myself…) rejoicing with you!ReplyCancel

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  • The Mershawn's - Oh yay. Congratulations guys. We’re so happy for you & yet know how crazy this must be. Praying for joy, peace & hope filled days.
    Enjoy that new baby boy…we just recently joined the baby boy club ourselves. Sweet, sweet…ReplyCancel

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  • Joel Rodell - Congratulations Joel and Jess!

    I hope to meet Levi someday.

    Maybe we can go to a cool playground!ReplyCancel

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  • Mary - Congratulations to you all! I’m in tears looking at your beautiful family, with the picture of Cora smiling down at her baby brother from the side of the screen. What a blessing!ReplyCancel

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  • Ruth - Congratulations to you both, and welcome to baby Levi!! I am so happy for you.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congrats to you and the family on the newest addition!

    Blessings,
    ChristineReplyCancel

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  • Amy - Congratulations! Been following & praying for you throughout the year. Thank you for sharing your story. By your actions, even in brokenness, you are bringing glory to the Lord.ReplyCancel

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  • Christine Trebendis - Congratulations…I am so, very happy for you. I’ve been following your blog for quite a while and am so inspired by you. Enjoy your beautiful little boy.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - A belated congratulations on your beautiful baby boy! God bless!ReplyCancel

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  • The Galimore Family - Congratulations on a precious baby boy! I have followed your blog for some time and you are such an inspiration to me! Praying for you as you begin this new journey!ReplyCancel

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  • Rush Family - Thankful for a sweet healthy boy. Our oldest is a Levi also. God is so good.ReplyCancel

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  • Townsend Crew - What wonderful news… I join the hundreds (on this page and beyone) who welcome this beautiful boy to the best place on earth… YOUR arms! Thank you for sharing him with us… can’t wait to walk this journey with you!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Michele - Congratulations MACS!! Welcome Baby Levi!! Wow, he is beautiful!! I cannot even fathom your emotions during this next chapter of your earthly journey but as you can see, there are hundreds (Thousands?!) of us PRAYING and rooting for you guys. Much Love, Many Hugs and GOD’s abundant Blessings to you all!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I just read the news!!! I’m so happy for you all. Levi is a precious name and he is adorable. God has blessed you with a son and you will feel so much joy through this journey just like you did with Cora. She is surely his angel 24/7! You can begin building those wonderful memories — it’s only the beginning and there are a million to be made!

    I’m so happy for your family!!!!

    Karen
    Cincinnati, OhioReplyCancel

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  • Jenn VH - Praise the Lord!! What a blessing to start this new year with a sweet baby boy!! I love his name and I love to see you with a baby in your arms again. I’m sure Cora is smiling up in heaven. Bless you!ReplyCancel

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  • normanmelody - God is so good. May you continue to feel His blessings daily. I will remember Levi’s birthday, because it is also my birthday. Melody (Scott) ChristinReplyCancel

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  • kimberlysayre - Congratulations! He is so beautiful! I love his name, too!ReplyCancel

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  • KK - CONGRATULATIONS!!! Such wonderful news. So happy for you all. Blessings!ReplyCancel

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  • Lindsey - I am so happy for you, what a wonderful gift! He is perfect. God Bless!ReplyCancel

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  • Jerri - Congratulations! What an awesome New Year gift! May God bless you all!ReplyCancel

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  • Mae - Congrats! I am so happy for you! Levi has great parents!ReplyCancel

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  • The Fishers - Praise God for the healthy delivery of sweet Levi!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - So happy for you! He is beautiful!! Wishing you all the best!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Kathleen - Congratulations!! What a beautiful baby boy!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Jason Gregory - What a wonderful blessing to start the New Year. I wish you all the happiness you both deserve! I’ll look forward to seeing him scamper around a really cool playground!

    God’s Blessings to you and your family.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I am so happy for you!!! May God watch over you!!ReplyCancel

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  • Kahla - Welcome to the world Baby Levi!!! Congratulations, I am so happy for you. What a special little guy to be loved by so many and watched over from above by such a wonderful big sister. <3ReplyCancel

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  • Melissaak83 - Congratulations! I love the name. Your family is beautiful, both here and in heaven. Little Levi and I now share the same birthday. : ) Congrats again and thank you for sharing your journey with us.

    MelissaReplyCancel

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  • Shuggamom - Precious Mac Family, y’all look AMAZING!!
    So excited for you!! Little Levi is a DOLL!!!
    Richest Blessings to the whole family!!

    Love,
    Stacey
    Atlanta,TXReplyCancel

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  • Justin and Lisa - So, so, happy for you! Congrats on the beautiful baby boy!ReplyCancel

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  • Emilie - Congrats!! I couldn’t be happier for you! Enjoy your gift!ReplyCancel

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  • Wendy McDonagh-Valentine - There are no words that could come close to describing how happy I am for you all. My tears for you are of such mixed emotions. Amazing Grace at its finest. God bless you, baby Levi. XOXOXO

    ~ Wendy in New YorkReplyCancel

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  • Becky - Wow, congratulations! Cora’s little brother is just beautiful. Best wishes to all of you.ReplyCancel

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  • Lori - Congratulations! What a blessing he will be. Thanks for sharing your journey with us – God bless!ReplyCancel

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  • The Tulip Lady - God bless you Macs, what a blessing to be included in this journey you call life. Always in my thoughts and prayers-VickiReplyCancel

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  • McKenzie - I gasped aloud at work when I saw his beautiful pictures! When the girls asked me what was wrong I said, well my friends…I mean these people whose blog I follow just had a baby! I had shared Cora’s story with them as I followed her through her diagnosis and hospital stay. We have never met. I have been following you through Amanda’s blog and you have shared so much that I feel like we should know each other! Biggest Congrats on your new little miracle!ReplyCancel

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  • Lodmell House - Congratulations!ReplyCancel

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  • Josie - Congratulations. I’ll be praying for your family.ReplyCancel

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  • Danielle - Tears of joy are running down my face! Congratulations on your sweet little gift. What a way to start the New Year!ReplyCancel

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  • Mama de Ryan and Zane - more pictures of levi, please!!ReplyCancel

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  • Mike, Chelsea and Co. - SOOOOO Happy for you both!!! Congratulations and welcome little Levi!! I imagine Cora smiling from above. I’m sure she shared a few tips with him before he came down and joined the family. Congratulations again!!

    The OstlersReplyCancel

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  • Rebecca - Congratulations and welcome to the world, Levi!! The first picture of Joel and Levi just melts my heart!

    I am praying for you at this bittersweet time. Praying for you as you work through many emotions. Praying for strength. Praying for hope. Praying for peace. And praying as you adjust to having a new baby in the house.
    You are all loved so much.
    Love and Hugs.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Praise God! Congratulations to you on your new blessing in the new year! He is beautiful 🙂 Thanks for sharing your joy (& your sorrows too) I pray for you.

    Theresa
    CAReplyCancel

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  • middleagedmom - Congratulations! God bless you and your newest addition.ReplyCancel

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  • Adrienne - little boys are just so sweet! congratulations and blessingsReplyCancel

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  • Loraine - so happy for you.ReplyCancel

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  • Shelly Primm - I am SO happy for you and Joel. God is good and I can’t wait to get to “know” your new baby! CONGRATULATIONS!!ReplyCancel

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  • McArthur - Congratulations! Such an amazing gift from God to start a brand new year, full of joy, renewal and growth as a family.ReplyCancel

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  • John and Elisa Seaba - Congratulations! Little Levi is adorable!!ReplyCancel

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  • Leah-in-the-Kia - I am a long time reader, but have never commented. Best wishes to your and your family, he is just lovely!
    from Leah
    australiaReplyCancel

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  • Nan - Ohhhhh! I’m so happy for y’all! Congratulations on your beatiful new little reminder of our living HOPE! God’s richest blessings….ReplyCancel

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  • annamarie saarinen - So beautiful! Congrats again. From our heart community, another baby Cora was lost recently…and Levi – an amazing dad advocate lost his little Aiden. Greatness comes in all shapes and sizes. Blessings to you, Annamarie 1in100 (Facebook), 1in100.orgReplyCancel

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  • mayasmom23 - Congratulations! What a beautiful name for a beautiful baby. 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Carla - I’ve been meaning to comment all week. Im expecting a baby next month, please God, and my little girl thinks our baby is Levi, somehow. SHe gets really excited pointing at him and then at my bump lol. I hope you’re settling in well, I’d imagine things are a little tough at the moment, with the postnatal hormones on the scene but i wish you peace and serenity at this beautiful time and we (my LO and I) send huge hugs to Levi and his gorgeous big sis in heaven.ReplyCancel

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I really thought that Baby Mac might decide to come in December.
Cora was early, so I had my hopes set high.
But I think he/she is content just waiting.
Still nothing happening.
I have another appointment this morning,
so we will see what the doctor says.
It is hard to believe we have made it through nine months. This year has been so hard, and honestly sometimes I miss Cora so much I haven’t even been able to think about this pregnancy or the new baby.  But now, at any time, we are going to be meeting our second child.  It is a weird feeling because I finally feel like Joel and I have figured out how to function in a somewhat graceful way (at least some days) with our new normal.  And now everything will be changing again–but this time a welcome change!
I think we feel so excited, yet so scared at the same time.  We are scared of moving forward without Cora.  Scared that people will think we are “better” now that we have another child.  Scared of loving so deeply again.  Scared of ever having to watch a child suffer again.
But we know it will be SO worth it.  This little baby is such a blessing to us already during an incredibly dark time in our lives.  And God does not call us to live in fear.  Will you pray for us as we take this next step forward?  It is probably silly for me to even ask because I know you have been so faithful to pray for us already.  We are praying that we will embrace the fullness of who Jesus is–the ultimate answer to our deepest needs.  Whether we are in the hospital saying goodbye to our sweet Cora or in the hospital welcoming a second little miracle, He is faithful and by our side.  Our circumstances can change in an instant, but He never does!

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:13
As we get ready to welcome Baby Mac into our family and approach a new year, may our lives OVERFLOW with hope!
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  • Robin in Benton - Praying for you all through the happy and the sad. Your faith throughout this journey has been an inspiration to myself as well as others. Looking forward to meeting Baby Mac – whenever he/she decides to make an appearance!ReplyCancel

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  • Livesays - Beautifully written, Jess. Your words are so honest and tue! Can’t wait to hear the news of Baby Mac’s arrival! We pray you have a safe, easy delivery! Baby Mac is coming into the most wonderful family. He/she will be truly blessed to call you and Joel mommy and daddy! Take care!!ReplyCancel

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  • Bev from VA - I have been reading your blog , since about a month before Cora became really sick but have never commented before. You & your husband are amazing people ! And your blog has touched my heart , over & over again, in so many ways.
    I am praying that everything goes smoothly for you both & this new little one. I know Cora will forever be in all our hearts & she is always watching over you. I admire you & your husband so much. This old world needs more human beings , like you.
    Prayers always……
    A faithful blog reader from VAReplyCancel

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  • The Chance Family - I admire your strength and will be praying for you and your friends the Johnsons! You both are such amazing examples of having strong faith through trials! Thank you for sharing.ReplyCancel

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  • kaylin rose and mara anne - You are just amazing! And I love how honest you are…I am praying for you guys, during this happy and sad time.

    Looking forward to finding out what Baby Mac is.

    Happy New Year!ReplyCancel

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  • Shana - I am definitely praying for you guys. I know this new precious will make it easier in some ways but will also make it harder in others. But like you said God does not want us to live in fear. He loves us and wants us to be happy. God Bless You and Your family and this new precious baby.ReplyCancel

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  • Lauren Kelly - Just beautiful!!!!!! And praying that in 2010 with the arrival of this new miracle, that you will once again be restored with hope, peace, and joy as you go into the new year!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Thank you for your honesty and for continueing to share your journey with us. Will be praying for you as you welcome Baby Mac!

    KimReplyCancel

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  • onlymehere - Hugs and prayers coming your way. I sincerely pray that all goes smooth and well for you, Joel, and baby Mac. 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Nancy - So glad I found your blog & I will definitly be praying for you both & this new baby.. Praying for peace & hope for you this New Year!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Best wishes to you! Love the photo grid – you should print that as one print and frame it for the baby’s room – so perfect!ReplyCancel

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  • Marla Taviano - 1. Those 9 pictures are incredible. What a treasure!!

    2. Dear friends of ours lost their baby girl just after Cora died and are expecting again. They made a short video of their story for our Christmas program, Hope. I think (know!) it will bless you.

    http://bit.ly/6cD18SReplyCancel

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  • Just Beachy - I hope that the new baby comes very soon and very easily , no one will forget Cora and how much she is missed .
    January 2nd will mark a year since my niece was still born , for those of us there she was a perfect little baby who didn’t have a chance, to others she wasn’t meant to be , but to us she was so very real and meant to be ,to those of us who held her and ached when we looked into her beautiful face and missed her cries and smiles and potential, the pain is so deep , for you mothers who have lost their little angels I ache for you .
    my sil is pregnant again too , it is a guarded hope and tempered excitement.
    I wish you a healthy and happy year ahead full of healing and blessings , I can not wait to hear the good news soon.
    Cheers
    ChrisReplyCancel

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  • Just Beachy - One more thing , you are the most adorable pregnant girl , it sure looks good on you , loved that photo of you rockin the drums , so cute.ReplyCancel

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  • Brian, Angie, Matt, Tim, and Meredith - Checking daily for updates on baby Mac(!)…can’t wait for his/her arrival!ReplyCancel

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  • Robin - Your faith is amazing and you inspire me so much. I will pray for you as Baby Mac enters your lives. Happy New Year to you all!ReplyCancel

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  • Angie - I will be fervently praying!

    We will never forget Cora and we will always be praying for your hearts.

    New years baby??!! Thinking and praying always!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Melissa Joy - You speak so honestly and truthfully, poignantly and beautifully.
    You are prayed for earnestly and frequently!
    May the Lord be with you during all of these changes, and may He uphold you during the weakest moments and give you delight at the most joyous ones.
    Thank you for ministering to us even through your pain. (((hugs)))ReplyCancel

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  • Kristen - Look at that beautiful baby belly! Praying for the all the Macs, and anxious for news of his/her arrival! God bless!ReplyCancel

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  • Launa - Praying so deeply for you and your whole family. Praying that the day this new little one arrives goes as smoothly as possible. Know that Gods grace is being shown in your lives and that His plan is perfect.ReplyCancel

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  • Aja - Amen. I am praying for you guys right now! May this child come quickly and easily and in God’s perfect timing and be a blessing to you both.

    Can’t wait to hear about the arrival! Happy New Year!ReplyCancel

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  • Angry Julie Monday - A New Year, full of life and change. I hope that the doctor has good news. And your new gift will be here soon!ReplyCancel

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  • Karina - I absolutely love the belly pics.

    You have many people praying for you, rest assured. I do not pray, but you and Cora enter my thoughts daily. I admire your strength and look forward to news of the new baby’s arrival!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - totally ramdom, but do you think that baby mac is a boy or girl?ReplyCancel

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  • A - I have been praying for you as you miss Cora and anticipate the arrival of Baby Mac! I love your picture collage- I hope to do that when I become pregnant. Thank you for reminding us of that Romans verse- it is so appropriate as we begin a new year!!ReplyCancel

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  • Jennifer Dawn - Best wishes for the new year! I love the pregnancy photo collage. I wish I had done something like this. Maybe next time. 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Kristi - Oh, I have already been praying for you and will continue to do so. I have shared your story with my husband. Everyday, I check to see if your little one has made his or her appearance yet :). Thank you for sharing your story with those of us who do not you in person.ReplyCancel

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  • k and c's mom - May the joy of the Lord be your strength.
    In His presence is fullness of joy.
    I have such a sense that His presence will be more real to you during this time than anything you have experienced in the past.
    Bless you, yours and this little one who is going to bring so much joy into your world.ReplyCancel

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  • The Moffats - Can’t wait for Baby Mac to make his/her entrance into this world and into the best mommy & daddy’s arms! Wishing Cora was here to welcome her. She’ll be throwing the greatest welcoming party in heaven – clapping and singing with the angels. Praying for your strength in these next few days and weeks and for all the emotions that will come with this next chapter. Love and hugs.ReplyCancel

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  • Amy - So excited to hear your news! Hopefully soon! You are simply gorgeous when you are pregnant (and when you’re not, too!) This little baby is already so, so blessed to be a part of your family. A baby couldn’t ask for more! Hugs to you!ReplyCancel

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  • Melissa - You look beautiful!

    Praying for you!ReplyCancel

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  • Tonya - Such a beautiful post. Thank you for sharing so much of your lives with us. Many prayers for you as you embark on this new journey. (By the way, we’re friends of the Bohrers. Heidi sent your blog to me when Cora was hospitalized. Been following and praying for you ever since.)ReplyCancel

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  • Brooke - Praying for you always. Your story has touched my heart in a way that I can’t even begin to write down. You are faithful followers of our GOD! Love, BrookeReplyCancel

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  • Alicia in Arkansas - Your words are so inspired and anointed by God. Thanks so much for sharing your story and opening your soul to us. You will never know the depths of how your story has impacted the life of my family. We don’t take ourselves and the kids so seriously, we take time to enjoy the mundane…we laugh more. I got an email with a like to your blog early this year to pray for Cora and have been reading ever since but never commented. I had to today after reading your scripture. That exact verse is the reason I am a functioning mother of 4 today. After loosing a baby at 14 weeks, our next pregnancy (last one and unexpected) was filled with anxiety when my quad marker screen came back abnormal…until this verse was read as the sermon at our church the same week! I meditated on it 24/7, printed it several times and hung it all over our house. We had a healthy baby girl, middle name is Hope b/c of this verse.
    Will continue to pray for your family as you move forward and will pray for this baby from the top of his/her head to the soles of his/her feet, that every inch and every cell that makes up his/her body is covered by His blood! Will pray for your delivery too.
    Love your pictures, pregnancy definitely agrees with you. God Bless!ReplyCancel

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  • Sarah - Always thinking about and praying for you!!ReplyCancel

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  • Heather at All A Flutter - I understand the worrying about people thinking your “better” now because of new baby mac. We felt the same way when our daughter was born after our son died. Some people may never understand, but take heart in knowing that the few that do understand what your new normal is, are the one’s that really matter! And take each moment one at a time- that’s what is still helping us everyday. I’m praying for you!!ReplyCancel

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  • Molly - Faithfully praying for your family during this exciting, yet emotional time in your lives. God is with you and has remained with you over this past year, he will always be by your side. I’m super excited to hear all about baby Mac’s arrival and gender, and can’t wait to see pictures of his/her sweet face! Much Love! Happy New Year!ReplyCancel

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  • Toni :O) - Such a sweet post and those pictures…wow, can’t believe it’s so close already! We’re still praying for you, every day. Wishing you a blessed 2010 and may Baby Mac provide you with nothing but joy and happiness as Sweet Cora watches over all of you. I hope your delivery is smooth and easy and we can’t wait to see pictures of your sweet addition. Take care and sending you love and hugs from Michigan! :O)ReplyCancel

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  • laney - … amen…ReplyCancel

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  • Jamie - Your words are beautiful… Please know that we are praying for you in Alabama. Take Care!ReplyCancel

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  • BEK - Shalom and Amen!ReplyCancel

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  • Alli Unruh - I love the pictures you’ve taken thoughout your pregnancy. It’s fun to see them in order from beginning to almost there:) I am praying for you, Joel, and your new little one. I think of you so often.ReplyCancel

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  • Cyndi - When is your due date? My first was 3 1/2 weeks early so I too thought (as did my doctor!) that my second would be early. No such luck…she came 1 day late! I’m sure you’re getting uncomfortable…that last month is hard!

    Do not feel that others will think you are better b/c you have a new baby. We know that is not the case at all! I still check back on you every few days since I started reading (a few days before Cora died I think). My heart aches for you. (((hugs))) CyndiReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I am excited to meet your new little one. Praying for you is part of my daily routine! Lately I have in fact been praying that you would be able to enjoy your new baby without fear. Hoping for a quick, painfree delivery for you!!ReplyCancel

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  • Joanna - We are praying for you!!!
    Thank you for sharing
    JoannaReplyCancel

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  • This is the day! - We are praying for your sweet family. May you have a great delivery and healthy precious baby to welcome into your lives. We can’t wait to hear about your new little one.ReplyCancel

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  • Cristin - Dear Jesus,

    Please bless Joel and Jess as they welcome baby Mac into this world. Thank you for giving them strength when you called Cora home. Please continue to to fill their lives with your spirit!ReplyCancel

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  • in a world surrounded by men - I haven’t commented very much, but I’ve been reading, praying, and feeling for you during this past year.

    I’m so excited to hear your news and see a little light shine in this dark time.

    Happy New Year.ReplyCancel

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  • Kristin - May the New Year bring blessings of hope, love, joy, and comfort during this bittersweet time. God Bless!ReplyCancel

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  • Julia - Don’t know that I have commented before but I like have to check your blog every day. The waiting game is so hard and your writing today was so sweet. I know you will be a wonderful mom and dad to the new little mac just like you were with Cora. I admire your clinging to God and not becoming bitter with the nightmare of losing Cora. Your strength is amazing.
    Praying all goes well for you with your new little bundle.ReplyCancel

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  • Judy - Definitely praying for you right now and in the days to come!!! I can hardly stand myself I’m so excited to see this precious new baby of yours. Hurry up Baby Mac!ReplyCancel

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  • waiting - Praying for you as you wait for this sweet Baby Mac. I pray that God will surround you with his love. In March, I had my miracle baby after 6 years of secondary infertility and 2 back to back miscarriages. The pure JOY these last 9 months have brought are indescribable. I pray for you and your husband to have that joy tenfold. Praying for you in these last days of your pregnancy. Praying that God will give you the peace and joy to move forward in HIM with this new life in 2010.ReplyCancel

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  • Vera - I pray for you and Joel SO SO much during this time. I can’t wait to “meet” your little one!ReplyCancel

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  • Mum2twopreciousgifts - Jess and Joel

    With prayers for you and your families. May Baby Mac come soon. We are checking in every morning in the hope for news.

    Thank you for reminding me, constantly, that God is in control and I just have to HOPE in him.

    God Bless you all from our little family in Australia.

    M xReplyCancel

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  • Donna H - She had another baby;

    http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=529462942&ref=search&sid=1054262812.1103011451..1ReplyCancel

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  • Tricia - Wishing your sweet family a happy, blessed,and abundant New Year.
    You all will indeed continue to be in my prayers.

    XO*TriciaReplyCancel

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  • ame - Praying for a safe delivery of Baby Mac, and rejoicing that He is still carrying you through. 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Brittny - what a cute way to show the progress of your pregnancy!! i love that! and i will be praying for your family as you go through the next few days, weeks, months. i can only imagine the emotional roller coaster you must on right now. i lost my brother in jr. high and was so thankful to know my God was with me through it all. it doesn’t make things instantly better, but gives you a peace i’d never know otherwise. i look forward to seeing photos of your newest family member, hopefully soon!ReplyCancel

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  • Jody - Jess & Joel –

    I am so glad that I stumbled across your blog in 2009. It was just a few months after Cora had gone on to heaven. It has been a blessing for me to pray for y’all as you travel this journey of grief and happiness. I’ve kept checking the blog feed a couple times a day to see if Baby Mac has arrived yet.

    God Bless!

    Oh, and my niece looked adorable in her Cora Christmas dress and I shared your story with her mommy 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Anna - Can hardly wait to watch you take this next step of welcoming your second baby into this world!ReplyCancel

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  • RB - You continue to inspire me with your grace and strength. We’re definitely praying for you up here in British Columbia, Canada, as you welcome Baby Mac into your wonderful family. Happy New Year to you all!ReplyCancel

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  • kate - your blog is an incredible encouragement to me. I’ve followed for a while and am inspired by each post. Your hope in the Lord is steadfast and His strength shines through you brightly. In our pain of loss I have learned that our God is a GOOD God and I’m going to obey and see goodness in the choices He has for me. His goodness is bright in your life and He is walking faithfully beside you.

    Many blessings to your growing family. May your birth be beautiful, perfect, and joyful. May this baby be an incredible blessing to you and the Lord give you balance in your emotions in the days and weeks following your birth.

    I look forward to hearing of the great joy the Lord has for you.
    eloise-lily.blogspot.comReplyCancel

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  • Micah - Happy New Year, Jess!ReplyCancel

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  • Krystal - I am praying right now for you and your family. Looking forward to seeing Baby Mac! Best wishes!ReplyCancel

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  • Nan - Amen Jess.

    Praying for a swift and safe delivery and for your emotions as you welcome your new one.ReplyCancel

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  • Heather - I am praying Jess..you guys are brought to my mind often!

    Love love
    heatherReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - thinking you Jess, and hoping for good news very soon.ReplyCancel

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  • Carla - thinking you Jess, and hoping for good news very soon.ReplyCancel

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  • Carla - thinking you Jess, and hoping for good news very soon.ReplyCancel

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  • forever folding laundry - What fun pics! Love those belly shots.

    Praying for you still. 2010 is sure to be a very blessed year for your family.

    ~KeriReplyCancel

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  • Stef - I love the way you express your emotions. I’ve never been through what you have, but you have this way of writing, that makes it easy to come alongside and sympathize and even pray with more of an understanding spirit.

    I cannot wait to see pictures of you guys holding another precious baby in your arms. I imagine every single time you hold or kiss your new little one, memories of Cora will come flooding back… forever. I doubt it will change. Its one of the ways her memory will live on with you.

    Praying for a safe delivery and healthy baby!ReplyCancel

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  • Andolicious - I love how you documented the past 9 months in those pictures. It will be something new baby Mac will love when he/she gets older! I pray for you and your husband. I know God will help you two thru this and you will love this baby so much! This baby is a blessing and I hope the delivery is quick, easy, and goes smoothly! God Bless yoU!ReplyCancel

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  • The Potters - Praying for you guys and can’t wait to see pictures of the new baby! Hope you will post promptly!! 🙂 Good luck in delivery.ReplyCancel

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  • Kahla - Sending lots of prayers for peace, continued strength, hope, and so much more. Cora will be looking over her brother/sister from above and she will never be forgotten. I have no doubt you’ll continue to keep her in your lives each and every day. You are both so strong.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - This is ridiculous, but not even knowing you, I am so excited to hear of the news of baby’s arrival (and I am getting impatient,even more ridiculous, so can only imagine your anticipation level). I was certain you’d made a DIY Christmas gift….I suppose baby could be an Epiphany gift, that would still count as Christmas, right? All that I am certain of is that God’s plan is not ours to understand and His is perfect timing.
    Babbling along, trying to say, I am sitting in the pacific northwest saying my prayers for you along with everyone else.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - To put it simply you are an inspiration. Reading your blog helps me to appreciate EVERYTHING that I am blessed to have, so… THANK YOU!!! Best wishes for baby Mac and Good Luck!!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Christina - Like so many others, I have been praying for you, about the very thing you mention in this post. I pray that the God of peace and hope is so present and real in your lives right now, and that you are able to be joyful as you anticipate the arrival of your new little Mac. Your words are so amazing and wonderful…and a true testimony to God’s grace. May he continue to heal and answer.ReplyCancel

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  • Ceri - Jess,
    I have been reading your blog for a while. I think of you often and keep you in my prayers. You are an inspiration to me in ways you will never know. I love your love for Christ and your steadfast faith. Your beautiful pictures and crafts inspire me as well. Thank you for sharing your story. You are a beautiful woman, inside and out. I love your belly shots your so creative! I cant wait to hear about the birth of baby mac I keep checking back every day. Hold your new little one close knowing that there are hundreds probably thousands out there praying for you and Joel and baby mac.ReplyCancel

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  • Roo and Wren's Mama - I’ve been checking your blog every day lately, waiting for new of Baby Mac’s arrival… hoping for a smooth and easy delivery for you!
    I’ve been reading your blog since just after Cora went to Heaven… your testimony and honesty is truly God-honoring. May 2010 be a year of joy and hope and continued healing for your hearts.ReplyCancel

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  • Joyce - I want to say what an encouragement you are to me…I stop in here and read and always leave feeling such a sense of peace. I am praying for you… thru your tears and thru your joy in welcoming a new little one into your hearts and home. May God do exceedingly more than you can ask or imagine in this new year. I look forward to hearing your baby news…God bless you and your husband and Baby Mac too.ReplyCancel

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  • The Wrights - Congratulations! I just heard the news of your new little one! My prayers are with you in this new journey.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Congratulations. We just heard the good news about your new son. We are happy for this new blessing for your family.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Sending prayers your way and wishing you a quick labor can’t wait to see the new baby mac but Cora is never far from my mind. Your strength and faith has really showed me so much about myself and guided me back to teh Lord. May God continue to watch over you and bless your family.
    Summer in CaliforniaReplyCancel

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  • Deedra - I read your blog often, I rarely comment, but wanted to say that I pray for you and your husband often. I have a little girl who is one month younger than your precious Cora (born April 2, 2008) and I have just given birth to a little boy (nov 09)

    Anyway, just wanted you to know I’m praying for you both and for your new delivery! 🙂

    DeedraReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Hi- Looks like someone spilled the beans before you could 🙂 Congragulations on your new little one..anxiously waited for pictures and post from you but can’t patiently wait until you are ready to share with us…
    In my thoughts and prayers EVERYDAY

    KimReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - should have read through my comment BEFORE I posted…ok I was excited..meant anxiously waiting and CAN wait until you are ready..:)

    KimReplyCancel

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  • Carla - Excitedly awaiting the official announcement!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Townsend Crew - Macs— that 9-shot picture is absolutely amazing! What a beautiful (yes, YOU!) image of this amazing transformation over these last 9 months! Never seen anything like it before!ReplyCancel

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  • Kathy - Oh my goodness, what a precious blessing! I have been following your blog from time to time for a long time and I’ve prayed for you through many of your difficult days. My deear, I am praying a prayer of thanksgiving today, as you celebrate the brand new year with a brand new beginning! Nothing can replace sweet Cora, but Levi will provide you all with many tears of JOY! God bless your sweet family.
    xo…KathyReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I really think it should have been up to Jessica to post any announcements. It is her/their news to announce, afterall.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I follow your blog almost every day. I just wanted to send more thoughts and prayers your way as you welcome a new part of you into this world. I know you will always feel with Cora not here that a part of you is gone, but I’m so glad you are being blessed with Baby Mac to help bring joy to your lives. I can’t wait to hear the big announcement that Baby Mac is here. Cora will surely be his/her angel 24/7.
    Just relax and enjoy each and every precious moment up until the birth and after! Congratulations!

    Karen Andwan
    Cincinnati, OhioReplyCancel

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  • the girl that rambles♥ - You guys are angels and Cora is an angel too.ReplyCancel

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  • Irismar Oliveira - Olá, conheci teu blog e amei! Que o Senhor Deus continue te conduzindo ao crescimento na graça a no seu amor.

    Uma boa tardeReplyCancel

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  • 15 Adorable Weekly Baby Bump Photo Ideas | Blended - […] Photo: The Macs […]ReplyCancel

After Thanksgiving my brother-in-law brought
ROCKBAND over to my parents house.
He had bought it for super cheap at a Black Friday sale.
We all loved it.
We were hooked.
Especially my mom.
My brother-in-law was kind enough
to leave it at my parents’ house for us all to enjoy.
Little did we know,
my mom played even when we weren’t there.
She was even caught practicing the drums
into the wee hours of the night.
So, when Christmas rolled around,
my dad decided she might need her own ROCKBAND…
She was SO excited when she opened it.
Who ever thought that a grammy would want ROCKBAND for Christmas??
We even found a ROCKBAND t-shirt for her.
My niece got a ROCKBAND t-shirt too.

We spent a lot of Christmas day rockin’ down the house.
It was fun.
Lots of good memories and good laughs.
There is nothing like a rockin’ Grammy!

Oh, and someone was wondering about these bats.
They are called Mashoonga! Sabers.
My mom got them at Sam’s Club.
They are supposed to be for safe, competitive, contact play.
I am not sure if there is anything safe about this picture.
Maybe they are not meant for grown men!!
At least we know how to have fun, right?

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Leave a comment

  • meg duerksen - THAT is unreal.
    it makes me totally want to get rockband.
    i LOVE that!ReplyCancel

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  • Sara - these pictures are so great…everyone is so serious 🙂

    i have been following your blog for a long time…don’t know if i have posted before today.

    i am still stalking your etsy store, too…

    can’t wait to see your baby!
    blessings from CA!ReplyCancel

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  • Karina - What a great picture of you – nine months pregnant, barefoot, and playing the drums with a VERY serious expression on your face! Love it. (And so impressed with that rockin’ grammy!)

    I’ll be sure NOT to tell any of the men in my household about those bats – they would LOVE them, but I’d probably have a heart attack if they did that in my living room!!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Love, love, love your Mom.
    This post cracks me up.ReplyCancel

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  • purejoy - so good to see laughter. and a sweet little baby bump!!
    rockstarbaby!!ReplyCancel

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  • Melissa - Those pictures are so fun!

    We LOVE rock band at our house! Sometimes I concentrate so hard on the screen that my contacts pop out!! Guess that’s what distinguishes me from a real musician.ReplyCancel

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  • k and c's mom - You made me laugh out loud with this post! I think I am about the same age as your Mom, so maybe I should take up drumming or something for my new hobby.
    You look beautiful and I hope you are feeling well. Glad for some happy times for you.ReplyCancel

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  • MICHELE - That is too funny! She makes that look good! 🙂
    Can’t wait to see pics of that baby! Rest up.ReplyCancel

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  • Sara - Nothing like a really pregnant drummer! I love that pic!ReplyCancel

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  • Lauren Kelly - HAHA!!! Love it 🙂 Rock on Grammy.ReplyCancel

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  • K - So cute! My parents got totally the Wii when it came out a few years ago.ReplyCancel

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  • Abby Johns - I just wanted to let you know that I think you make one stinkin’ cute pregnant lady!ReplyCancel

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  • Sherri - oh Jess, this is fantastic! Now these are memories that will last forever! What fun Christmas must have been for you and the fam.

    You and JOel look so wonderful in the pics! I can’t wait to see pics of babymac on the outside!

    PS: those bats will be at our next Christmas! Thanks for he action shots….LOVED it!ReplyCancel

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  • Alicia - So much fun!!! That is what Christmas is all about…fun and family!

    I have read your blog for a bit(don’t know if I have ever posted)…I send lots of prayers with baby on the way.ReplyCancel

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  • Utecht Family - Now Adam knows who to call if he wants a Sunday off. You’ve got a whole worship team right there!ReplyCancel

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  • Carrie Darney - I want to come play! What a FUN family! The bats…could have used those in the office today. Rock band, never played but I need too…sounds and looks like so much fun!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Jane In The Jungle - Go Mom!!!!ReplyCancel

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  • The Browns - All the guys in my family are the same way. They love to get silly stuff. One year they all got that farting foam (or whatever it is) & they had so much fun with it. I also got them all a silver or gold “grill” to wear in their mouths from Wal-Mart & that was a great picture 😉 Praying for you & your pregnancy.

    BonReplyCancel

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  • Heather | Cookie Mondays - again… best family ever 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Jennifer Dawn - How fun!ReplyCancel

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  • Vera - How fun! You look ADORABLE!!ReplyCancel

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  • E @ Oh! Apostrophe - Hi! Not sure I’ve commented before, but love your blog!

    Had to chime in and say- LOOK OUT!- my friend went into labor right after a crazy night of rock band drumming! 😉ReplyCancel

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  • Miranda - That is awesome! LoL!! Whoever said Grammy’s can’t be cool? Glad to see everyone have family fun together. 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Erica - your family is SO much fun! wow!ReplyCancel

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  • Brian, Angie, Matt, Tim, and Meredith - The family that rocks together, stays together(???). 😀 My bil brought Guitar Hero to the C’mas gathering last year, and it’s become a standard activity w/n our own family during our gathering too!

    I had a good laugh, Jess, at your intent look on the drums! My face is identical on the guitar during our ‘showdowns’. 🙂

    Your mom looks *great* in her shirt; and it’s so nice to read of a family having fun together like this!ReplyCancel

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  • Liliana - Wow…looks like you all had a great time!! We just got Band Hero & like your mom…I get really into the game. It’s so much fun & a great thing for family fun night!!

    My brother alway jokes that we look constipated b/c we concentrate so hard not to miss a note!!! lol!!

    Can’t wait to “meet” your new baby!!ReplyCancel

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  • CourtneyC - Oh my goodness that is hilarious that your mom loves Rockband so much.

    Looks like everyone had a blast!ReplyCancel

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  • Shari - Rockband is very fun! Our kids got it for Christmas. Highly recommended if you have 3 or more kids because they can all play together YAY! The lyrics on the songs tho…not so much for kids. Something very disconcerting about a 9 year old singing about being drunk! We ended up buying the Lego song pack and the Country track pack for the more appropriate lyrics!ReplyCancel

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  • Amber - That is hilarious!!! 🙂 Glad you all made some great “rockin'” memories!!!ReplyCancel

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  • Nan - Okay, we totally need the Mashoonga Sabers here!! I have four boys that are always playing swords. My Dad got them some foam swords from Pottery Barn kids but they lasted only a day before they broke! Clearly they are not made for real live children! LOL

    What a fun Christmas this looks like! I think I love your family! :^DReplyCancel

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  • linda_happy60 - What a fun family. Makes me want to rock out and I’m a granny to 7.ReplyCancel

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  • Gail - Your mom must be a lot of fun!ReplyCancel

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  • Sarah - Hilarious pic with those “sabers”…I’m sure your mom knew exactly what was going to happen after all.ReplyCancel

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We spent Christmas Eve at my parents house…
Celebrating my nephews first birthday,
eating sausage subs (yummy),
and spending lots of time together.
Christmas morning we were back at my parents…

eating breakfast together,
stockings,
opening presents,
building a gingerbread house,
eating more food,
celebrating Jesus’ birthday,
and spending more time together.

These bats were one of the major highlights Christmas morning.
Every time one of the boys would get up it would turn into this.
Thankfully pregnant ladies were off limits!

Saturday we celebrated Christmas with Joel’s family…

eating breakfast together,
stockings,
new bikes for the kiddos,
eating LOTS of good food,
reading the Christmas story,
opening presents,
and spending lots of time together.

This Christmas was hard.  It still makes me so sad to look at all of these pictures and know that Cora should have been a part of these memories.  I wondered so many times what it would have been like to wake up with her on Christmas morning or watch her playing with her cousins.  We would have had so much fun.  But we were blessed in so many ways this Christmas.  Our families are so wonderful and our time together was great.  And, like so many other times this year, we felt the indescribable joy and peace that only comes from our Lord.

And…
We are still waiting to meet Baby Mac.
He/she apparently did no want to come for Christmas.
Nothing is happening yet.
Just waiting.
We will keep you posted!

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  • Sarah Furlough - Still praying for peace and comfort for you and Joel. Can’t wait to read about the arrival of Baby Mac!ReplyCancel

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  • Marla Taviano - Thanks for sharing, Jess! Praying for you and Joel!!ReplyCancel

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  • Maureen - Thinking and praying for you guys! Can’t wait to see pictures of baby!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - I need to know more about those bats! Where did you get them?ReplyCancel

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  • Micah - It sure looks like you and Joel have been so blessed with two wonderful families to love.

    Anxiously awaiting the arrival of the new little one – along with 1,000 others ;).ReplyCancel

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  • Lauren Kelly - There is so much sweetness flowing out of those pictures…. And look at the belly, looks like Baby Mac should be coming like today, haha!!! A stubborn little thing though, huh?? 🙂ReplyCancel

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  • Ashley Ann - Wow those pictures of all the guys and the bats make me feel like I am seeing my life in about 10 years….looks fun!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Love the pictures and the glimps into your world 🙂 I so wish your Cora was here with you..and she is in spirit..
    Can’t wait to meet Baby Mac..

    Thoughts and PrayersReplyCancel

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  • gwswenson - Praying for an easy labor and delivery, and can’t wait till your bundle of joy arrives!!ReplyCancel

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  • purejoy - sounds like you guys were really surrounded by lots of family and love this christmas. and cora in your hearts…
    can’t wait to meet your little baby mac and am praying for peace and joy to meet you.ReplyCancel

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  • Heather | Cookie Mondays - you have the BEST family!
    i keep hoping your next post will be an announcement!! 😉ReplyCancel

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  • Krystal - I know we don’t know each other but I’ve been praying for you and your family! Even though we don’t know each other I”ve been secretly hoping you’d have Baby Mac today, Dec.29th…it’s my birthday! So you’d better get busy ;)!ReplyCancel

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  • Karina - Thank you so much for sharing some photos from your Christmas; your families look wonderful. I am among the many checking back daily awaiting news of Baby Mac!

    I am so sad for you that Cora couldn’t be there in person. I come back sometimes just to see her face – she still has the power to move me to tears just from looking at her, but there is something strangely fortifying about the sadness she inspires. What a powerful young lady she is.ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Thinking of you and praying for you! You have an amazing family and are an amazing woman. I am certain Cora was right there beside you, watching over all your Christmas happenings, as she is in all things you do. Can’t wait to hear the news of your new arrival!ReplyCancel

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  • Stewart Family - Love the pictures. You are truly blessed with an amazing family!!

    Praying for you and Baby Mac…I am so anxious to see that post!!ReplyCancel

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  • Alison A. - I have no idea how I found your blog, but just wanted to wish you well and let you know there are many internet strangers who are thinking of you. Your blog is a work of art, as well as a great memorial for Cora.

    Wishing you and your husband the best with your labor, delivery, and enjoyment of Baby Mac.ReplyCancel

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  • Proud Grandma - Thinking and praying for you both and I can’t wait to see pictures of Baby Mac – maybe you will have a New Years Day Baby!ReplyCancel

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  • Loraine - please share the sausage sub recipe….

    please.

    yum!!!ReplyCancel

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  • The Carroll's - Thank you for continuing to share you journey with us. Praying for you often. Cant wait to “meet” Baby Mac!ReplyCancel

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  • k and c's mom - Thanks for sharing. I thought of you and prayed for you often during the holidays. Can’t wait to see and hear all about the baby’s premiere. Blessings on you. God is faithful.ReplyCancel

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  • Stef - Happy New Year! I’m anxious to “meet” your new little one. I’m so glad you had real joy and peace on Christmas Day, even in the midst of aching for Cora.

    Much love,ReplyCancel

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  • Melissa Joy - I am praying for you every day. Walking the line between grief and hope is precarious and hard! May God continue to be your strength and joy. (((hugs)))ReplyCancel

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  • Carly Winborne - so glad to see this post. i was thinking that you may have been tied up, not posting, because of your new baby. i am seriously thinking of you constantly, and thought about you a lot today. i was just convinced your baby had been born. (i know that sounds so stalkerish, but i don’t mean it that way. i just wish you were my friend in real life. what fun we could have!!!) excited to see your little one’s precious face very soon.

    praying for you and your husband, even now.ReplyCancel

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  • Carly Winborne - PS: i was having lunch with my mom today and was telling her about you, that you just seem amazing, so focused on Jesus even in your grief. she said i needed to leave a comment, even if you get dozens on every single post you leave. just know that you are so admired, even from a distance.ReplyCancel

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  • Tricia - It looks like a wonderful time was had by all. Glad to see that pregnant ladies were spared from the sword fighting. 😉
    Excited to hear of the arrival of baby Mac.

    With love and prayers,
    XO*TriciaReplyCancel

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  • capperson - Thinking and praying about y’all. I can’ wait to see pics of the baby!!ReplyCancel

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  • Jane In The Jungle - I know it was so hard wondering. But so glad you have the peace that passes all understanding.

    Can’t wait for news of Baby Mac!!ReplyCancel

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  • Melinda - You have such a lovely family – I’m glad to see that you were surrounded by so many loved ones throughout the holiday. Cora is always with you in spirit – I’m sure she enjoyed the bat game 🙂 You and Joel are in my prayers. I pray that you have an easy labor and birth – can’t wait to read about the arrival of Baby Mac!ReplyCancel

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  • Carla - I was that lady in waiting Christmas two years ago, my bundle of joy didn’t arrive til the 2nd Jan! Hope you’re getting lots of sleep and TLC, which no doubt you are, given your lovely hubbie and family. Your pics of Christmas look lovely. Its hard even as a stranger to see you there without Cora but your strength as always Jess, is a an inspiration to so many. Wishing you peace and calm in the next few days to enjoy the end of your pregnancy and not toooo many texts/emails asking you whether you’ve gone into labour yet :-). I’ll be thinking of you (when I should be fast asleep, gotta love pregnancy insomnia, hope you’re not suffering from it!)
    Hugs, CarlaReplyCancel

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  • Christina - Those are such wonderful pictures…it does look like you had some great moments, and were surrounded by loving people through the hard ones. Your family looks like such a treasure!ReplyCancel

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  • Anonymous - Praying for you out here on the west coast! May you feel the reality that the Lord is with you as you wait on Him for the birth of this precious new child and for the delivery of him/her into your loving arms!ReplyCancel

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  • Diana - What a fantastically happy and blessed Christmas for you all — such fun you had! Your smile is a ray of sunshine in each of your photos 😀

    Keeping you covered in prayer as everyone waits……..

    ♥ReplyCancel

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  • jen christians - First I must say you have an amazing eye with your camera! Second, your families are so ADORABLE, they are appear to truely love eachother…(well the bats, ha!)Third, you are in our prayers as the appearance of baby Mac draws near. I will pray for a gentle, easy labor, and God’s arms wrapping around you as you meet the beautiful child created just for you.ReplyCancel

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  • onlymehere - I know that Cora was with you in your heart. Somehow, someway I believe she is there at special moments when you need her most. I love the header and feel like it gives us all a glimpse into her personality. I’ve followed you for a long time but don’t comment too often. I just wanted you to know how your courage inspires people. I keep you and Joel and new baby Mac in my prayers daily. I’m exciting to see him/her and pray the delivery will go well for all of you. 🙂 CindyReplyCancel

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  • Donna H - http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/undertaking/stories/ReplyCancel

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