Monday, March 30, 2009

Update : 33009

Tuesday, March 17... Tough day. As you know, this was a dreaded day as we faced Luke's birthday for the first time. It was hard. We went to his grave with my parents and were joined there by Todd, Angie and their girls. I don't even know how to describe it to you. So many emotions. So awful. So wrong. So painful. STILL SO HARD TO BELIEVE. I think we were there for about an hour... maybe a little more than that... not really sure. We placed flowers on Luke's grave. We wiped away the dust and dirt that had been blown onto his marker. We sat in silence. We talked and caught up on life. Abby, Ellie, Kate and Summer ran around and laughed and played. We enjoyed the beautiful sunshine and warmth of the nearly-spring day. We remembered Luke and shared some stories. We circled around his grave, hand in hand, while Todd prayed. And then we left. 

I guess it's what you do in situations like this. What else is there to do?  

As difficult as that day was, the entire week really, we know many people were praying... we sensed those prayers, we were strengthened and encouraged by them, and we were able to get thru those days in large part because of them. Thanks to all of you who were part of that outpouring on our behalf. God was faithful to listen and kind to act. We are grateful.

Saturday, March 21... I was in the living room with Summer and my parents when I heard Nicol calling out to me from the top of the stairs, "Greg, can you come up here?" By the time I started up the stairs she had already disappeared. I found her standing in the middle of the bathroom with a wonderfully familiar look on her face. I looked over at the vanity and saw something else that has become a familiar sight over the past few years... a home pregnancy test. 

So let me just cut to the chase... Nicol is expecting! We confirmed the HPT with a visit to the doctor the following Monday. I hadn't planned to share the news here this soon, but I decided to do it anyway because the way I see it, there's no reason to wait. Yes, these early weeks are critical. Yes, things can go wrong. Yes, maybe it's best to wait a while. But THAT is exactly why I am sharing this with you... so that you can celebrate with us and, especially, so that you can pray. 

We would be - as always - so thankful for your prayers. This news has a bit of a bittersweetness to it. Bitter because it tears at ours wounds as we miss Luke so much and continue grieve his loss. Sweet because... the precious gift of new life... what more can I say? 



 

185 comments:

Carrie said...

WOW! Congrats to you. God is good ... all the time - isn't He?

I will continue to pray for your sweet family.

mandy rose said...

Awwww that is soooo amazing! I have been following your journey and I am so glad you are being blessed with a new life! No one is more deserving than your family! Congratulations!

Rebecca said...

Congratulations! Very bittersweet. Thank you for sharing.

I was thinking of you and your family this morning when Nicol's song, "Resurrection", came on the radio (KSBJ in Houston).

Linda said...

Congratulations! May the LORD bless you and your family, and especially your precious, expected little one.

Karalin said...

That's such wonderful news! Congratulations. :-) Such a sweet blessing to look forward to!

Anna said...

Couldn't be more excited for you guys!!!! CONGRATULATIONS... rejoicing with you as you anticipate new life! Sad for you as you miss Luke, but excited at this new chapter in your life!

my3sons said...

That is the best news I have heard in a very long time! I am so happy for you all! A new life is the most precious as you already know. I thought of your sweet Luke on his Birthday also. I pray for a healthy pregnancy!!Katie

KimMc said...

Absolutely amazing...I am so sorry that your family has had such a hard week...yet amazed at God and his sovereignty! I pray that the next 8/9 months continue to bring healing, along with excited anticipation for what is to come! May God's presence continue to be with you!

Mrs. D said...

I will add you to my prayer list. With another pregnancy will bring new thoughts... I will pray that your family is covered against anxiety and worry. I'm pregnant now with our 3rd child. I'm due at the end of June. This baby is the 1st pregnancy that we have had since our second daughter was stillborn at 35 weeks gestation. Odd enough that this baby has the same due date at our baby that died. But I look at it as part of the Godly restoration process. It has been hard and I've learned to give this pregnancy back to God everyday. Thank you for sharing because it gives us the chance to pray for your covering.

Shelly said...

Yeah!!! I'm soooo happy for you both. Congratulations!!!

I will be praying for you all. May God wrap his loving arms around you as you remember your precious Luke. God bless you:)

The Queen B said...

What wonderful news! It gave me goosebumps :)

All of you are in my prayers & have been since I discovered your blog 9mths ago.

Paige said...

Congratulation again!!!!!! I am so excited for yall and will be praying!

Wade's World said...

Congrats on the new baby! I will be praying for your family as you walk this exciting road.

glw0605 said...

Congratulations! I will be praying for you all. For Nicol to have a safe and healthy pregnancy. For all of you to continue to experience God's comfort and love as you remember Luke.

Melody said...

Yay!! Congratulations!! I will definitely keep this little one (and your poor wife, as this time is so exhausting!) in my prayers. How exciting!

Anonymous said...

Soooo VERY happy for you guys!!!

King J's Queen said...

That is such wonderful news! I am so happy to hear that Summer and Luke will have a new baby brother or sister. I'm sure there will be many bittersweet moments; but my prayer will be for a joyful pregnancy, full of peace and free from any fears or worries.

Wishing you God's blessings as you embark on this next stage of your life journey, remembering with sadness while looking forward with hope.

Jodi said...

CONGRATULATIONS!!! Praying all will go well.

Unknown said...

I will be praying. I have no words, really, I can't imagine how hard that was to visit the cemetary instead of having a birthday party. Just know I'm praying for your peace and comfort. I'll be praying for the pregnancy to be healthy for mom and baby. :)
Millie and Colin-HLHS

Anonymous said...

The wonder ofthis new life is a sweet antithesis to the sorrow you have in your hearts, and it is the wonder of His Love that is so important to remember as we celebrate Resurrection Day in less than two weeks.
So happy for all of you.

Kassandra said...

Oh my goodness, congratulations!!!! This is amazing!!! So happy for you guys.

I know the memory of Luke will live on in your hearts forever, and that this new baby will know who his/her brother was, and what a precious gift he was here on earth with your beautiful family.

Praying that the Lord continues to heal in ways that only he can. Congrats again. :o)

The Stain Family said...

I am sobbing. Literally. What a mix of emotions. So happy for you and your family and will absolutely be praying for Nicol and your baby. Thank you for letting us be a part of your life.

Christy Morgan said...

Congratulations, Greg and Nicol! We know all too well the bittersweet feelings of that subsequent pregnancy. We lost our Luke to SIDS on January 1, 2007 and had our subsequent baby on January 2, 2008. It is a tremendously difficult and wonderful time. We will pray.

Miller Family said...

What wonderful, fantastic news! We are so happy for you and yes, we will definitely keep you in our prayers.
Another blog I have been following is Annabelle Butcher's. She passed away last year and now her parents are expecting again. You should check out her website babygirlbutcher.blogspot.com if you have a moment. Rebecca (the mom) is an amazing woman of Faith as well and I think you would enjoy reading her posts.

Courtney said...

Oh praise God for your little blessing..After a stillbirth and a miscarriage I am currently 21 weeks pregnant, and it's been bittersweet the entire time. We just found out not a week ago that this baby girl is healthy. We lost our first two daughters to two different trisomies. I've already found myself almost calling her by our first daughter's name..There are so many bittersweet moments..I will keep you both in my prayers. May God bring you this sweet baby healthy, whole, and to live a long and beautiful life with you!

http://cestep.blogspot.com

"And whatever you ask for in prayer, having faith and believing, you will receive." Matthew 21:22

God has a plan... said...

We are so excited for you! Know that we will continue to cover your family in prayer over the months to come. -The Dukes.

Cochran Family said...

Wow, congratulations to you and your family!!! Will be thinking of you and praying for you. :)

Channe said...

YEAY - CONGRATULATIONS!!! We are rejoicing with you & your family. We are & will continue to pray that Nicol has a safe, easy, pregnancy. We are SO happy for you all - the Karaba family

Jody said...

I came here to tell you that your family continues to be on my heart and prayed for often. I have been in similar shoes as this- holding a positive pregnancy test, while grieving the loss of our 4-yr old daughter.
Life- from our perspective- doesn't really make sense. The loss of innocent life and knowing God could have made a way for things to have turned out differently is not only hard to understand, but hard to accept too.
I trust that God will fill your cup with blessing in this new life- while still giving you peace and comfort as you miss Luke forever. And one day, we will all see from God's perspective, why and how it had to be this way.
Our suffering is achieveing an eternal glory, which far outweighs them all...
May you cling to Him as the emotions come in waves. Where there is pain, God also brings great Joy. Thank you for sharing your journey. All of it. I will be praying with you and look forward to another beautiful baby Sponberg.

Stacy D said...

I can imagine it is really bittersweet. It's something I've been thinking a lot about as my husband and I dialogue abotu when we may feel ready to try again after having lost Isaac.

Speaking of that, do you think Nicol would mind me emailing her to talk with her about what it's like to be expecting again after having lost a child? If not, it's ok... I would just appreciate the perspective of a Godly woman who has been there.

I will most certainly be praying...

~ Stacy

The Thornton Family said...

Congratulation! And yes, we will be praying.....


Stacey in Missipi

Mocha with Linda said...

Oh, congratulations! I can imagine the bittersweetness, but I suspect this is one way God will turn your mourning into laughter!

momof4kr said...

I have tears in my eyes as I try to put myself in your shoes.

I am so proud to be you and Nicol's Sister in Christ.

I pray for a smooth, stress-free, enjoyable pregnancy...and that this new life brings a pouring down of blessings like you can't even imagine!

God loves you so.

~Katie

Delena said...

How cool! So excited. God is Good!

Ang said...

CONGRATS!!!!!!!!!!

rebecca said...

Congratulations! God is SO good!

I will continue to hold your precious family up in prayer.

Thank you so much for sharing!

S. said...

Congratulations!

S.

Anonymous said...

That is just wonderful!!! God Bless you and your growing family!!! I will continue to pray for all of you.

Laurie in Ca. said...

I have been praying you through missing Luke and I will be praying for this new baby and new life. It is bittersweet though, isn't it? But life is always precious. Praying for your family.

Love and Hugs, Laurie

Karen said...

Continuing to pray for you and Nicol. Congratulations!

Cheryl said...

Congratulations!!! God is great!

Jennifer said...

Congrats! I will be praying for you.

rthling said...

Oh, I am happy for you, but I am crying, anyway!
I'll be praying this pregnancy goes smoothly, and Nicol is strong, and well.

Daddy's Dream ~Mommy's Miracle said...

Super excited to hear the news...and we will be praying!!!

6HartsforHim said...

Congrats! May the Lord bless you with peace and a healthy pregnancy.Continued prayers for you all.~Bethany

Melissa said...

Brought tears to my eyes...So glad you and your wife got to share this special moment. I know you will enjoy this very special time as you watch new life begin to grow, a new sibling for Summer and sweet Luke. May peace surround you, congratulations so happy to hear this news.

karen44 said...

That's wonderful news! I will be praying for an uneventful, and blessed pregnancy.
-karen l.

Mommyof3 said...

I understand so much of what your going through. We lost Ella Grace on July 30, 2004 and gave birth to Ava Grace on September 22, 2005. Bittersweet exactly.

Praying,
Valerie

Ashly said...

That's great news! I'll be praying for you guys. Being pregnant again after a loss has been emotionally and mentally difficult. I will be praying specifically for you guys to have a great pregnancy and a healthy baby!

Kim said...

Congratulations!!! My fourth child, Benjamin was born just before your precious Luke and I spent many nights in his darkened room, praying and weeping for your loss ... and my own fears.

I read your daily updates and my heart has been burdened for Nicol in ways I cannot even explain. Being a complete stranger and only having the words that you all have shared is but a glimpse of your pain but I am privileged to have carried even a glimpse.

I too am expecting just a year later and look forward to hearing how this blessing of life unfolds in your lives. Thanks again for sharing.

zum the mum said...

Oh my goodness!!! I have goose bumps and just know that God is near. His plan is perfect, isn't it? Even when we don't get it, it's perfect.

Congratulations! We will all be praying for this precious new life on the way!

Kelli said...

Exciting news! Praying for things to go well with this pregnancy.

Janice said...

Congrats!

Sarah said...

Congratulations!

Krystal said...

Yay! I will certainly be praying for all of you in this early phase. (I came over from Angie's site when she wrote that you'd lost Luke.) I ask our Heavenly Father to hold you tightly in His nurturing arms as you continue to grieve Luke and look forward with this new precious one.

We've Got Scents said...

I have chills......I am so thankful.......and I will continue to pray for your family.
Blessings always,
Kaye
Matthew 21:22

Heidi said...

Congrats! I hope she is feeling well and your joy is very abundant!

Nic (NotPerfect) said...

What a wonderful blessing! Bittersweet, of course, but also quite wonderful. Best wishes. I'll be praying for you.

Pat said...

Praise God. I pray for you and your family. God is good. Smile and enjoy this new life that is to be.

harmonysong said...

Rejoicing with you!!!! :) Will be praying!!

Anonymous said...

Congratulations! God is so good, and so faithful! Your whole family will definitely be in my prayers.

-Amy

(came here from Angie's tweet!)

Elizabeth said...

Here from Angie's blog . . . Praise God! And congratulations. I'm so very happy for you.

Liz

Ashley said...

Congratulations! I'm so excited for you! I will keep your family in my prayers!

Jess :) said...

YAY!!! Congratulations! May the Lord wrap his arms around ALL of you, especially Nicol and this precious new life that has been created!

Blessings,
Jess :)

Lisa said...

Congratulations!!
I will keep you and your family in my prayers.

Blameless said...

God is turning your sorrow into Joy...and I Praise Him for the renewing of life!

May you and Nicole continue to rest in His embrace as you await the growing new baby.

Congratulations!

Sarah

Anonymous said...

Congratulations that is wonderful news!!!
Praying for you all
Em
from Australia

Jenn said...

Congratulations! Your family will be in my prayers. I know how bitter sweet pregnancy after loss is. Hang in there.

Amy said...

Congratulations!

Rissa said...

Yipppieee... congratulations!!! Will be praying for you all!!

Katie said...

Congratulations!

Andrea @ Mommy Snacks.net said...

Congrats! Praise God! So happy for your happiness and joy!

mama2lsa said...

I am praising our Lord for your wonderful blessing! Congratulations! I, too, became pregnant 11 months after our infant daughter passed away. My son has become such a healing balm on my grieving heart. I pray that the Lord will grow your blessing strong and healthy and that he/she will live a life that shouts God's glory from the mountain tops! Many blessings to you all!

AuthorMama said...

Congratulations, Greg, Nicol and Summer! We've been praying for you, grieving with you, and now rejoice with you over your news.

Kacie said...

Wow - and I just finished writing a long musing post about suffering and pain that coexists with joy and hope in our lives - and the whole thing was punctuated with Selah lyrics.

And yet again, here you announce great hope and joy amidst your pain. Thanks for sharing all of this with us!

Pam said...

I will pray with all of you as God has blessed you with a new life - even in the midst of sorrow.

Candy said...

I have prayed for you many times and am giving God praise for this blessing once again. Congratulations!

Mallory said...

Found out about you from Angie just after Luke died, and my heart broke that your family had to deal with so much so close together.

But I am so excited for you! No one is more deserving than your family! Congratulations!!!

Hall Family in MD said...

We will be praying for you all!!

Kate's Mommy said...

congrats! will be praying, God bless the baby and your family.

Gene and Annie said...

Congratulations on the awesome news! You and your family will be in our prayers!

Denise said...

This is by far the BEST news I've heard all week! Congratulations!!!!

Your family will, as always, be in my prayers. But I'm so thrilled to have a new request to lay before Jesus: for a healthy, uneventful pregnancy!

dena said...

Congratulations:) God Bless you all and I will keep you all in prayer as you await a new addition. God's peace!

The Grown Up Teenager said...

Praying for you, Nicol and the new little life that you're going to be blessed with.

Congratulations.

Anonymous said...

I'm sitting here at the keyboard crying for you. Tears of joy mixed with sorrow. Lots of love and congratulations xxx

Lauren said...

So happy for your family!

Anonymous said...

Many Praises for your joy! Yea! I am so happy for you both! Scratch that for you three! Blessing Shi~

Michelle Ferguson said...

I have a huge smile on my face as I add my own "Congratulations!" to the others that have accumulated here. Will be praying for you and Summer and your sweet, beautiful wonderful, expectant wife!

Vannoys said...

Praise the Lord!

MapleCottage said...

I am so happy to read this.. Congratulations and prayers coming your way!

K said...

Congratulations! You will be in my prayers!!

IAmDenise said...

will be praying for you guys!

Congrats that is super exciting!

Mrs. Wilson said...

Congratulations!!!

suzncasey said...

I don't know you really!
but I do!
I'm crying tears of joy for you!
God Bless I am so thrilled for you!!!
Suzanne

It must be said "God is SO GOOD"

Janine said...

What awesome news! What a wonderful light to our world.
Thank you for sharing ..... so that we can be happy for you and pray for all of you!!!!
Good news .... such a welcome thing.
:)

Skerry said...

I am so happy for your family as you look forward to welcoming another blessed child. The sadness and pain of losing your Luke will never go away. It may sound silly but I would like to imagine that Luke has already met his future brother/sister and has shared the joy of being born into your family. My prayers for you all will continue.

Stacia said...

Congrats! I now how scary it is to announce a pregnancy early, so thank you for sharing and letting us pray for you! I have been thinking about your family and Angie's this month. I pray the good memories are stronger than the ones that bring you pain.

WendyCarole said...

Congratulations. What wonderful news

Laura said...

Congratulations!! We will be praying for you!

Briana said...

Congratulations! Wishing you all the best!

Jen said...

Congratulations!!! My thoughts and prayers are with your family as you start this new chapter of your journey. Wonderful news.

Courtney Kay said...

Praise the Lord :)

jo said...

God is good!!! May this time be full of peace and joy. What a lucky baby to be blessed in your family. We are praying each day. Congrats Big Sis!

Anonymous said...

Congratulations! You all are always in my prayers- I will just tweak them a bit ;)
Much Love,
Amber

Unknown said...

Congratulations! How exciting to add to your precious family! I will be praying for your family as your new miracle grows...can't wait to see pictures of him/her in the fall!!! ~Melissa in MN

daniella said...

I'm so happy for you and the way our God blessed you that I'm actually crying. The happiest cry I've had for a long time. What wonderful news...like Spring, when the lily of the valley blooms despite some snow still on the cold, ugly, mushy ground. He redeems. He loves. He lives!!!

I'll be praying for His favor, protection, and peace. And least amount of morning sickness, of course.

Julie D. said...

Such an answer to prayer, such a miracle, so AWESOME!! You guys have been in my thoughts often lately. Hopefully Nicol won't be so sick with this pregnancy....will be praying! Certainly is a time for CELEBRATION!!! AWESOME JUST AWESOME!! He is an AWESOME God and his timing is perfect....although we don't always agree..AWESOME!!

Love in Christ, Julie Doody

Julie said...

Congratulations to you and your family. I found myself in tears as I read the good news! I understand the bittersweetness of a new pregnancy...and I will be praying for your hearts as you get through each day!

And rejoicing with you!!!!

Anonymous said...

Congratulations! I pray that God will bless your family & watch over Nicol & this new life. Too often, we humans forget just what a miracle a healthy baby is. May God grant you peace & joy in the several months to come, that Luke's memories will live on, and you will continue to heal day by day.

Jen said...

I was led here by Angie, and have been following your blog. My heart has been broken for you, yet your words have strengthened and encouraged me. I have never commented before, but feel as though I know you. I guess it isn't fair to only be on the receiving end though huh? =) I am thrilled for your family and the blessing of new life. I will pray alongside many others these next 9 months and beyond. God is good.

Kippy said...

Congratulations! What a blessing!

Deborah said...

My prayers are with you and your growing family.

The Hansen Family said...

Congratulations! God is good

Lindsey said...

Just lifted up a prayer for the entire Sponberg family. May this precious life be a reminder of His great love.

sunset pines farm said...

I could not be happier! Congratulations!!!

Precious 3 said...

Praise God! I sit hear with tears of sadness AND of joy for your family. I have not read your blog before today, but had heard your story through Angie's blog.

I lost a child, before he was born. I know those mixed feelings you can have with the next pregnancy. Oh, but praise God for the miracle you have! He is wonderful.

I will be praying for your wife, your baby, and your family.

Liz said...

As I sit here in tears, I am praising God for this miracle and will pray for a healthy pregnancy.

To God Be the Glory!

Sonya said...

Congratulations!!!!!!!!!

sheila said...

Greg and Nicol I am so very happy for both of you. Congrats!!! I will be praying often for your little one and for Nicol's heart, may the Lord continue to bless you and hold you close. To him be the glory. In God's Love, sheila

Isaiah 61:3
and provide for those who grieve in Zion— to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor.

Kris said...

You are in my prayers! So excited about your news and praising God for the promise of new life with you!!

Angie said...

Congratulations! God is good! We will continue to pray for your family! ~Angie F.

Laura said...

Congratulations to you both!!! This little bean will have a very special guardian angel watching over.

Anonymous said...

CONGRATS... We will be in prayer for you all and for things to go smoothly as we know that God has his hand involved in this....
Kellie - Clarkston, michigan

Sunshine said...

OH WOW! I just was reading a post on Angie's blog and caught the twitter update out of the corner of my eye...I KNEW as soon as I saw the page loading...I knew! Tears sprang to my eyes and I rejoice with you both and will be in prayer. PRAISE GOD! Sunshine

Laurie said...

Praise God in all His glory... He is sending you another prescious life, A breath of Heaven. This is His plan, we may not know the whys or hows or even comprehend His grace, Love and Mercy but we are free to accept it. God has been Blessing you and your family all along and now you have like Angie said something tangible of his LOVE!!! God Bless you and your family and The blessing God has given you!! A BABY :0)

Laurie

Sarah said...

I am over from Angie's blog. I met you, Nicol, at Christmas at the Candlelight Vigil--my twin daughters are buried there.

I can understand somewhat your emotions. We just welcomed a baby girl 7 weeks ago into our family--our "first" after losing our daughters.

You are in my thoughts and prayers. Please know that I always visit Luke and Audrey when we go see our girls.

Jordan said...

Congratulations! God is good =]

debi9kids said...

Congratulations! What a wonderful blessings during a time when you so needed to feel one.

Kelly robinson said...

Praying for all of you. May you continue to be BRAVE! Choosing life and all the pain that it opens us to. So grateful to have you bearing witness to the infinite ability of God to help us go forth, unafraid of the possibile pain and sorrow. I am so grateful for your presence on the web and LUKE's life which has reached souls, like mine, for God's greater glory.
Thanks for not hiding your light, your hope, your grief, and your humanity.
Much blessing to you,
Kelly Robinson

Becky said...

Wow! Praise the Lord for the sweet blessing!

I pray for God's protection on your little miracle and continued peace and support as you grieve Luke's absence.

Anonymous said...

God is SO GREAT!

What a precious gift ~ thank you for sharing it with the world.

I continue to pray for your family, now I will add the newest member in! :)

With lots of love & warm congratulations,

Beth,
MI

Devon said...

congrats.

i know how bittersweet this must be for you....

hope its a healthy, easy 9 months!

jm said...

This is my first time commenting but I just had to say that I will be praying for this new gift and hope that this can be a joyful time for you and less bitter than sweet! Congrats!

Janellie said...

So incredibly happy for you all!!! Will be lifting you all up in prayer and trusting God to do a mighty work. Yahooooo!! So excited!! :) :) Much Love, Tony & Janelle

Anonymous said...

So incredibly excited for you all!! WIll be lifting you all up in prayer and trusting God to do a mighty work. Yahooooo!!! So excited for you all!! :) :) Much Love, Tony and Janelle

Mrs. Hany said...

Many prayers your way! Congrautlations on the new baby, I hope Nicol is feeling well!

Tina and Todd said...

I am shedding tears of joy for you both!!! Those early weeks are scary and I will be praying! May God continue to remind you of His love!

Rose said...

That is wonderful, happy news! Congratulations to your family! Nicol and baby will be in our prayers.

Kandy said...

Praise the Lord. You well know what precious gifts children are to us. I will be praying and celebrating with you!!

Jessi said...

That is just wonderful! Congratulations and I will pray for health and saftey for Nicol and the precious baby growing within her.

Johannah said...

Congratulations! I'll be praying for this new little one, and the rest of you. Praying that God will continue to help you all heal, stiching you up little by little. :-)

sheila said...

I know I already posted, but truly I am so very happy for your family. And last night as I was readying 'Safe In God's Arms' (after my sister of course) I was at the part where the mother had lost her baby at 26 wks and really needed a service to honor her little one. She then went on to say how the children after were spurned on to follow Christ and meet their 'Big Sister' who was in Heaven waiting for them. The one who went before them was an evanglist in the family. How cool is that.... I too have a baby in Heaven and my 3 older children will mention the baby (I was 13 wks along), not even sure if I have a Baby Boy or Girl waiting for me, and look forward to meeting him/her. Just as, I am sure, Luke will be a part of your family on earth, until you are all re-united in Heaven again. Praise be to God. Did I mention, I'm doing a Happy Dance for y'all. lol In God's Love, sheila

Megan said...

God bless you, Sponbergs! That's wonderful news!

Wendy said...

Oh, Praise God for His precious gifts! This is just wonderful news. I wish you a blessed and healthy pregnancy that will bring new joy to your hurting family.
God bless you all!

Carolyn said...

Congratulations! I'm soo excited for you and Nicol!! I'm sure that your family will be going through all kinds of ups and downs through these next 9 months. I will be praying for you, Nicol, Summer, and the new baby. I hope that you continue to feel God's love on the wounds that you have from Luke's death. I pray that your family will feel complete peace and absolute joy with the changes that life continues to bring you!

Marlene McGarrity said...

We are rejoicing with you and Nicoll. Praise God for a wonderful miracle!

Anonymous said...

Praise God! We'll keep you in our prayers as we await a new Sponberg baby.

Scuba Girl said...

Oh! God is so glorious! We will pray for all of you!

Tasha said...

Yay!This just totally made my day!I feel so close to your family because I pray for you guys EVERY DAY.I count it an honor and a privalage.I will be praying that Nicole would have a healthy pregnancy and that you will be blessed with a healthy new little one to love.Tasha in Indiana

Anonymous said...

prayer to you and your family.

congrats and prayers for the newest addition!

Anonymous said...

God is so good! I just love babies! Congratulations to all of you!
Jennifer in Southeastern, NC

Anonymous said...

Congratulations! That is amazing news. Thank you so much for sharing and continuing to share your story. I was thinking of you and your family today...I work in a Christian bookstore and saw Nicol's CD on the shelf...it is a great feeling to see the CD and feel a tiny connection to you through this blog..and be able to pray for you, Nicol and Summer on a personal level. So thanks again for sharing.
May the Lord continue to bless you and watch over you. Keeping you in prayer.

Vonda said...

Yeah! The best news I have heard in a while. Congratulations to all of you. Prayers for a healthy nine months and beyond.

Susie (So Blessed) said...

What blessed news! No doubt, there will be many bittersweet moments during this pregnancy...but the One who has held you up thus far will not fail you. I'll be praying for a wonderfully healthy pregnancy. Praise God for His good gifts.

Susie

Anonymous said...

Congratulations!

Sue said...

I am so happy for you!

I will continue to pray!

Jennifer said...

What a miracle! God's blessings to you!


Jennifer

Navy Chief Family said...

Tears in my eyes as I read your blog. How wonderful and I am sure baby luke had a hand in it. May you be blessed with a happy and healthy pregnancy and life with this precious child.

anglswngs said...

Keeping it short and simple here...

WOOOOOO HOOOOOO!

Debbie

Stacy said...

I can not imagine the conflicting emotions...but what a precious gift from the Father. I will be praying.

Joy said...

Congratulations! Life can be so bittersweet...and the sweet part is only so because God is good. Will be praying for the little bean!

Millicent said...

congrats!!!!

Lisa said...

Oh, Greg and Nicol! I could not be happier for you if I tried. Honestly.

My first baby's due date is approaching on April 16th. We lost him/her a couple of months in to the pregnancy. And we had tried for 7 years! We're just now beginning again after much healing and, well, God's grace. Had we given birth and it was a boy, his name was going to be Luke. My favorite book in the Bible. That's still our goal. And just reading your sweet story, I have a little more hope than I had hours ago. God has taken your March and turned the hurt into hope. Congratulations to you both. And you can bet we will be praying here in Louisville. BTW, when is Nicol coming to Southeast Christian?! We would LOVE to have her -- and you and Summer and Baby Sponberg.

Blessings and Christian love,
Lisa

Kristina said...

Congrats! Praying for a healthy baby and a healthy mommy. I followed the link from Angie's blog and saw your posting. May the Lord bless you and give you peace, too.

Tammi said...

Congratulations! I will be praying God's peace to enfold you as you continue to process Luke's homegoing and the coming of this precious babe.

Ashley Beth said...

Rejoicing with you at the news of new life! We will pray for you all, as we so regularly do. May your hearts be joy-filled at this exciting news! Blessings...

Kristi said...

So happy to hear this! Congratulations! You will be in our prayers!

Susan said...

Congrats! This little one will never take the place of Luke but hopefully will provide some new joy and hope in this earthly life! I will be faithfully praying for a wonderful pregnancy and happy, healthy new little one!

Susan Simpson

Unknown said...

Congrads! We are praying!!!

Glenn said...

We have a two year old daughter who was born after our son passed away. I remember feeling every emotion, joy, love, fear, sadness, and probably some emotions that don't have names. She has been such a blessing and added so much to our family. What a wonderful turn this is on your journey!

Lyn Kearns said...

I have been following your blog since your sweet Luke's passing and have been touched in so many ways, but have never commented. I have a baby girl who was born 5 days before Luke so your loss hit close to my heart. Everytime I celebrated a milestone for her, I would pray for you and your family. It made me appreciate a the little things so much more and not take my kids for granted. While there are no perfect words to say that would provide comfort to you, please know that your experience forever changed mine and my husbands' hearts. Congratulations on the wonderful news. We will continue to pray for your sweet family.

HJW said...

Celebrating WITH you...what exciting news! Thanks for sharing :)

rameelin said...

What an awesome God we serve!
I'm crying just reading that you are expecting! It's just so remarkable...the gift of life! I'm so happy for you guys and will be praying!! Cant wait to hear the updates as time goes on.
Congrats again!

Unknown said...

Congratulations!!! Yeah! I wanted to share this with Nichol, I received this e-mail today and thought of Nichol, Angie, Stellan's mom Jennifer and I wanted to share!

Before I was a Mom,
I never tripped over toys
or forgot words to a lullaby.
I didn't worry whether or not
my plants were poisonous.
I never thought about immunizations.



Before I was a Mom,
I had never been puked on.
Pooped on.
Chewed on.
Peed on.
I had complete control of my mind
and my thoughts.
I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom,
I never held down a screaming child
so doctors could do tests.
Or give shots.
I never looked into teary eyes and cried.
I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.
I never sat up late hours at night
watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom,
I never held a sleeping baby just because
I didn't want to put her down.
I never felt my heart break into a million pieces
when I couldn't stop the hurt.
I never knew that something so small
could affect my life so much.
I never knew that I could love someone so much.
I never knew I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom,
I didn't know the feeling of
having my heart outside my body..
I didn't know how special it could feel
to feed a hungry baby.
I didn't know that bond
between a mother and her child.
I didn't know that something so small
could make me feel so important and happy.

Before I was a Mom,
I had never gotten up in the middle of the night
every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay.
I had never known the warmth,
the joy,
the love,
the heartache,
the wonderment
or the satisfaction of being a Mom.
I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much,
before I was a Mom .

Send this to someone who you think is an awesome Mom.

May you always be overwhelmed by the Grace of God rather than by the cares of life.

Love a Sister in Christ, a Prayer Warrior, Angie's Sundays.

Brenda Christensen said...

I am so happy for you both. I have been following you for almost a year now. You both have been threw so much. I also read bring the rain. I love both of your families so much. God bless you all. I will always pray for both your families

Penny said...

Praying for your family. It sounds like you had a precious day at Luke's grave. I am so sorry that you or any parents have to be blessed through loss. Three years later we still grieve our baby girl.

I am so excited for you and Nicol on your new life!! I hope and pray that this new journey blesses your life with some happiness.

Congratulations!!!!

Kristy said...

Oh my gosh, I am soooo excited for you both!!!!! What a happy ending to this post. I have been praying for ya'll - with Luke's birthday coming and now passing. What a blessing - a new little one, at God's perfect timing. You both need new hope and joy springing up in your lives, and we couldn't be happier for you!

carol adkins said...

You can count on my prayers! Blessings to your family

Amy said...

Warmest congratulations on your new baby. We'll continue to lift you family in prayer as you prepare for your new baby and continue to ask for comfort as your mourn for Luke.

I have an angel care monitor that I used witih both my babies, as I was worried about SIDS. If you are interested, I would be more than happy to send it to have for the new baby.

MiMi said...

Congratulations! God is so good!

May God continue to bless you and your precious family.

Rejoicing with you!

Jenn said...

Congratulations! I pray for a healthy pregnancy and birth for your family. Awesome...

Jennifer said...

Congratulations!!!! I have been following your story for a a while now. I pray for a healthy pregnancy and for peace and comfort for you as you continue your journey.

9hammys said...

So happy for you all!! God is so good. You are in my prayers. I know the next few months will be rough ones and I will be praying for you all tomorrow on Audrey's birthday. love to the whole Smith/Sponberg family.

Ang said...

I am so happy for you all. I just wept as I read your post. That your precious daughter will get to have another brother or sister and that one day Luke will to be reunited with his sister and the new baby. God is so Good. I will be praying for your wife not to be so sick. ((hugs))

RenaissanceBeliever said...

Congratulations are in order for both of you of course, and though we have never stopped praying for you, we'll renew our prayers again!!!

Please tell Nicol that in addition to her amazing gift of singing, her kind heart and incredible faith continue to make an indelible impression on my daughter and I every single day...