“AND became an heir of the righteousness which comes by faith”

Hebrews 11:7  “By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that is in keeping with faith.”

I wish God would ask me to build an ark someday. There have definitely been many days in my life when I struggled deeply. Looking back now, I realize I wish I had just a small portion of the faith I possess today during those difficult times. But perhaps, that wasn’t part of His plan for me. I tend to be stubborn and often have to learn lessons the hard way. Honestly, I have no idea where I got this stubborn streak from, but it’s undeniably a part of who I am and He knows that.

Faith has been the only thing I’ve had to rely on for the last 16 weeks and 3 days. It has carried me through every difficult moment. Thanks to God’s grace, we have made it this far. There is still a long road ahead of us, but I truly believe it’s only going to get better from here. We are gradually settling into Highlands Health and Rehab, and it is a blessing. It is such a relief to be able to visit Ricky daily without having to drive endlessly. More importantly, Ricky himself is settling in well. Each day, he grows stronger and stronger, and his vibrant personality shines through more clearly.

On Friday, Brittany was staying with him while Mom and I were at church. Suddenly, Brittany called me in a panic. Ricky had gotten frustrated with his nurse, bit his oral care sponge, refused to let go of the suction device, and wouldn’t open his mouth. I rushed straight from Woodville to Highlands Health and Rehab. When I entered his room and called his name, he immediately opened his mouth.

That day would have been Savannah’s birthday, and I truly believe Ricky knew it. I gently explained to him that we can’t bite the nurses, but his eyes revealed so much more — they showed how deeply he was feeling inside. We shared a quiet moment talking about Savannah and how birthdays are even more beautiful in heaven. Tears welled up in his eyes, breaking my heart into countless pieces. We cried together, feeling the weight of that bittersweet truth. Ricky’s awareness of the day was another powerful miracle, a clear reminder of God’s presence and love guiding us through every step.

I don’t know if I can brag on HHR enough. We are truly blessed beyond measure. Surrounded daily by complete angels who support and uplift us at every step. Ricky is finally getting the therapy he needs! He’s been spending time sitting in a recliner almost every single day, showing steady progress. His strength is continuing to improve bit by bit. Today, when I walked into the room, he was sitting up in his bed, almost indian style, fully engaged—watching his hummingbirds flutter around and holding his head up completely on his own. Our family will never be able to thank God enough for saving Ricky’s life, for the incredible miracles unfolding in his body every day. I can’t wait until the moment he stands up and walks again, teasing me by telling me I’m stupid and laughing with that unmistakable Ernest laugh. He’s going to do it!

We are having a new baby today !! Not my house, but my nephews.

Please pray that everything goes well in the delivery room. Continue to pray for Ricky and our family.

If you’d like to visit Ricky just reach out to us.

Thank you all for sticking by us throughout the journey.