We are nearing the end of our journey and I can't describe what I'm feeling. Overwhelmed, overjoyed, just plain over. I've told several loved ones that this has been harder than anything we've been through to date. It has been sad, frustrating, lonely, emotionally torturous, and gut-wrenching.

And then... Monday, I told Rhyan I loved her without her looking at my mouth to read my lips and she said immediately, "I love you, too". It was a turning point that I desperately needed. It has just been over the last few days that she's been responding more and more and I feel so comforted.

This coming Monday, she'll get her old ear back and have the old and new ears 'synchronized' She will hear with both ears for the first time in her life. I heard this song today and I feel like I've had a chance to catch my breath. I have felt these words sometimes every second of every day over the last month. But He has given us the promise of a lifetime. So, in case you've ever felt the same. Remember His promises.

* Kutless - Promise of a Lifetime *

I have fallen to my knees
As I sing a lullaby of pain
I'm feeling broken in my melody
As I sing to help the tears go away
Then I remember the pledge you made to me

I know you're always there
To hear my every prayer inside
I'm clinging to the promise of a lifetime
I hear the words you say
To never walk away from me and leave behind
The promise of a lifetime

Will you help me fall apart
Pick me up, take me in your arms
Find my way back from the storm
And you show me how to grow
Through the change

I still remember the pledge you made to me
I am holding on to the hope I have inside
With you I will stay through every day
Putting my understanding aside
And I am comforted