On the road...

We set off from Tupelo last last night for the first 3.5 hour leg to get to Searcy, Arkansas, my hometown.
Leaving Noah, Elijah and my mom proved to be a difficult moment for all of us.  Tears of sadness and joy fell as we drove out of town.

Here are some pics before the tears began:

 A sweet kiss from Elijah

And all three Keith kids: Elijah, Noah and Josie

We arrived after midnight to my parents' home and got a few hours of comfortable sleep.  

Early morning brought proud Papaw and smiling Josie together.  He gave her the morning bottle and prayed for all of us before we left.  

I consider a good indicator of how well I packed is how many trips to Wal-Mart I have to make during traveling.  Wal-Mart stops today: 1 for make-up.  Yes, I didn't pack any make-up! I sure don't want to scare anyone on this trip...

After our Wal-Mart trip, we travelled to Little Rock where we stopped for a late breakfast with some of our dear friends, Jill and Andy Chase.  They have a 3 year old son, Nicholas, who in his short life so far has made a huge impact on ours.  You see, Nicholas was born with a congenital cardiac defect which was undiagnosed during pregnancy.  After birth, he was taken immediately to Arkansas Children's Hospital.  He required several interventions, including open heart surgery on day 5 of life.  After several weeks in the hospital, Andy and Jill brought their little hero home.  Now living a healthy life, Nicholas and his parents are a source of encouragement for us as we face our fears with Josie.  Just as prayers are going up for our Josie, many prayed fervently for this little boy.  God is merciful.

Nicholas and Josie hit it off today.  I think she missed pulling big brother Noah's hair.

And the beautiful next chapter in this story is that Nicholas is expecting a baby sister in October.

Carmen, Josie, and Josh Keith; Andy, Nicholas, Jill and baby girl Chase 

Josie travelled remarkably well today, requiring only two additional stops between Little Rock and Waxahatchie, TX.  

Josie's comfy nest

Arrival in Waxahatchie, TX was at her evening feed time.  After her bottle, some play time and a bath, she was asleep at her normal time.  

In peace I will both lie down and sleep; 

for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.

Psalm 4:8