Ridgell's Originals

Jake Ryder Gilbreth is here. Julie and Jake are both doing fine, as is Bobby. Jake is just a shade over 21 inches and weighed 9 lbs., 4 ounces. But the best thing about Jake is that he is loved. Yes, his grandparents love him and I'm sure we will all spoil him rotten. And of course, Julie and Bobby are thrilled and committted to love and nurture him. It was all the other love for Jake that struck me the most yesterday.

I was reminded by what a loving family he is part of now. Watching his great-grandparents hold him was amazing. Watching aunts and uncles ( and great aunts and uncles) was special. And the ones that weren't here yet kept calling for updates and prayer. Jake's spiritual family is incredible. Elders and their wives, our small group, people that love us and Jake from church all came and called and prayed. I am not just talking about Southern Hills either. God's family is so much more than one congregation.

Most of all, I was struck by God's love. He protected Jake from the wreck, and He delivered him safe. I don't know all of God's plan for Jake, but it is special. Bobby and Julie see Jake as part of God's plan for their life. And he is part of God's plan for Mom and I. Maybe Jake is even part of God's plan for you. After all, we are family.

And thanks God for continuing to bless me way beyond what I deserve or can even imagine.