Bennett's Surgery - All is Well

How old are you Bennett?
Greeting from Childrens Hospital in Minneapolis. Bennett's surgery yesterday afternoon went very well. The surgeon said everything played out exactly like he thought and hoped it would.

Bennett has a nice "pirate scar" on the left side of his stomach, which will be a good life long reminder for this little 4 week adventure. (An adventure where we've had the opportunity to feel God's nearness in ways that we don't always in everyday life...)

We have been very grateful to be here for both the surgery and recovery - especially when contrasted with one of us being alone in jo'burg dealing with all this. Home is a wonderful place.

At the same time, we feel so grateful that we have been given the opportunity to be living in Zambia. Bennett just had an exchange with a nurse that reminded me of how grateful I am for all that we are learning and experiencing.

Nurse: What is your (stuffed) alligator's name?

Bennett: It's a crocodile. His name is Zambezi.

Nurse: Where did you come up with that name?

Bennett: (a bit exasperated) The Zambezi is one of the mightiest and most dangerous rivers in Africa...And it is filled with Crocodiles, and hippos.

Nurse: Wow. Where did you learn about that?

Bennett: We're visiting Zambia for a few years.

As you can see from the exchange, Bennett is back to himself.

We will be here in the hospital until tomorrow and then a few weeks of recovery at home.

So, as we head into Thanksgiving week, we are thankful for so much. Thank you for your prayers and encouragement.

Peace