It feels so good to write again to you, our Bowen’s Heart family. Even though we haven’t had as much to report, so many of you have remained faithful in praying for our family and posting encouraging messages. Thank you!
As you can see by the sign Bowen is holding up, we’re excited to announce to those of you who may not have heard, that Bowen will be a big brother! Hammitt baby number four is on the way! We’re expecting in early November.
Matt and I had been going back and forth on whether to have another baby. We were definitely leaning toward being done with three, but something in our hearts just didn’t feel our family was complete yet. We had considered so many things before having another. I mean, could we handle it with Matt being gone so often? I love being a stay at home mom, but I’m not great at some of my organizational responsibilities that come with the job. Also, even though the chances are low, the thought that we could have another special needs child was definitely on our minds. Emmy and Claire went through so much while Bowen was in the hospital that the thought of them having to go through it again was hard for us. I’m sure those are all natural fears and concerns, but we serve a supernatural God who has big plans for our growing family, and we trust Him.
I love our little man so much, I feel like I’m going to burst some days! I just know that he will make such an incredible big brother.Β Seeing how much Emmy and Claire adore him makes it even more exciting to have another baby on the way. We can’t wait for Bowen to have the same opportunity to love a baby brother or sister like that.
As for an update on Bowen’s progress, he looks and seems to be doing better than ever! He’s up to 22 lbs, and is growing better than ever. Now that spring weather is here, he loves playing “ide” (outside). He just waddles up and down the sidewalk singing and laughing at his sisters.
People often comment on how well behaved Bowen is, and they ask if he is always that way. He really is such a good boy…well, most of the time. Also, despite some of the odds, he is so stinking smart. The other day I handed him his dirty diaper and said, “Go put it in the trash.” So he took it out of the room and then a few minutes later he came back empty handed. I thought that surely he must have dropped it or put it somewhere random. As I followed his trail to the kitchen it was nowhere to be found. Then I opened the lid, looked into the trash can, and there was the diaper. I was shocked because I didn’t even think he knew what the trash can was, let alone able to process my request! Ah, it’s moments like those when I think about all he has been through, about his cardiac arrest and so many other complications. He had plenty of opportunities end up with developmental delays, but is doing so great. We are still so thankful that God blessed us with with such a great team at MOTT Children’s Hospital who cared for our little man so well, helping him get to where he is today. God is good.
Sarah
In his room, brushing his teeth like a big boy!
Barbie, Surfer Girl and Bowen having a dance party.
In November, this circle will be complete. Just one more to share the iPad with. π
Isobel
March 26, 2012 at 5:05 am
Wow! Wonderful news Sarah. Congratulations to you both , to you all! I hope you’re feeling ok and are able to keep on taking care of the brood. Bowen’s quite a little man. Amazing to think where he’s come from. If HE’s already aware of how to trash things , I’m sure the girls will be a great help with all the extra challenges with a new baby. And about the organization thing……….don’t wory too much about that. Some never do get the hang of it π , but it’s the love and fun times the kids are going to remember. Not WHAT they ate , how tidy the kitchen was around them or whatever.
It was great to hear from your mum. She sounds like she’s a wonderful lady , mom and Grammy. Things do go so fast. Last year at this time our Graeme was having severe headaches , a week later they found the brain tumor. He had his op next day and I can hardly believe it’s a year ago!! He’s doing fine . Last scans were all clear.
We’re enjoying some lovely spring weather here in Belgium too . Just great to lift the spirits and get down to the dirty work.!
Anyway , thanks for the update. The Lord bless you all!
Love Isobel + co X
The Lavina Family
March 26, 2012 at 1:28 pm
Isobel,
It’s always nice to see a post from you with an update on Graeme! Glad he’s doing so well. Still keeping him in my prayers!
In His Name,
Dana
Isobel
March 26, 2012 at 6:18 pm
Thank you Dana !
I’m humbled by such love and faithfulness…….
It has been such an encouragement to Graeme to know people (he doesn’t even know) across the ocean have been praying for him. We’re British, so it’s not that we have family in the States.I’m definately going to remind him of this in the morning.;) (Midnight here!)
How special for so many lives to touch each other since Bowen was born. How many times we’ve agreed in our requests for healing for Bowen and each other. Awsome !!!
Lots of love
Isobel
Shirley Stanton
March 26, 2012 at 5:11 am
Congrats!! So happy and excited for you!!
Eddie Bennett
March 26, 2012 at 6:03 am
I am so excited for all of you, what wonderful News!! I know what a hard decision it must have been for you to decided to have another child, but we serve such a amazing God, and we know He will see you all through just as He continues to each day. I often think of you all, and have saved so many of your updates into its own file, so I can go back and watch and be reminded of how God has worked in your lives. This past year was a hard one for our family with the loss of a daughter to a car accident, so those post about Bowen, and see how God continued to bless all of you reminded me of what a loving, caring God we serve, and that He is always there for us, during the good times as well as the bad. My prayers continue to go up for all of you and now I will be remembering you as you start yet another page of the wonderful Life Our God has blessed you with.
love, prayers & Blessings, Pastor Ed
Isobel
March 26, 2012 at 6:24 pm
Pastor Ed,
So sorry to hear what your family’s been through in losing your daughter. I pray for comfort and encouragement for you all.
God bless
Isobel
Cheryl
March 26, 2012 at 7:34 am
Congratulations Hammitts! with such beautiful children how can you not have another. Bowen looks amazing. Always in my prayers, Cheryl
Jeri Lau
March 26, 2012 at 7:37 am
Congratulations you guys! What awesome news!
I wrote just yesterday to comment on how Bowen’s pics bring a smile to my face : ))
I will pray for you, Sarah, for a healthy, smooth pregnancy!
My continued prayers for Bowen and your entire family.
Thanks for the pics and the update.
And you are right, Bowen will make a GREAT BIG brother!
X O
The Vincent Family
March 26, 2012 at 7:37 am
Congratulations Hammitt family!! We will be praying for each of you and the new baby!
π
Nancy Black
March 26, 2012 at 7:44 am
Good Morning Matt, Sarah, Emmy, Claire, and Precious Baby Bowen,
Congratulations on your pregnancy. I know that with God’s love surrounding you with his ever loving arms, you are going to have another beautiful baby.
I love waking up in the morning and hearing how well Bowen is doing, he is the country’s “little man” my heart and love go out to all of you. I love the pictures. He is so beautiful. Yea, your hands are full, full of love and comfort knowing he is getting better with each passing day. God is a wonderful and merciful God we serve, can we really call it serving, when we do his work and he takes so much care of us when it is compassion we give to others in their need?
Take care Sarah, with three active children, you are lucky to know your name π You are a wonderful, loving, sweet, beautiful, and precious mother and wife, never forget that. We all have bumps and bruises with raising children that is our gift God has given us to share with children that life is never smooth sailing, to teach them that life is full of ups and downs, to accept all of it and learn from everything.
Love all of you
Respectfully,
Nancy Black
Nan
March 26, 2012 at 8:08 am
So inspired by your story. You are such a beautiful family and reflection of God’s love for us. So happy for you guys. Will continue to pray for sweet Bowen, baby #4 and your growing family. Thanks for the updates.
Krista
March 26, 2012 at 8:17 am
SO excited for you all!!! Congratulations!!! I gotta tell you, I know we only see a sneak peek through pictures, but you seem like one of the most organized people I’ve ever met!!! You’ll do FABULOUS with #4, I have no doubt!
He’s getting so big!!! And he weighs exactly what Annabelle does, woohoo!!! Holy cow, a BIG boy bed!?! *sigh*
He really IS doing great, y’all. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t turn a light shade of green with envy… Annabelle can’t even walk yet, still can’t eat, and yeah. Lots of hurdles still to climb. (although, I totally realize our paths are very different, and spending 10 months in the hospital and multiple cardiac arrests comes with lots of delays, and she’ll get there! Some days are just harder than others!)
*hugs* and prayers to you all!!!
Susie Michaud
March 26, 2012 at 12:27 pm
Matt and Sarah, congratulations! You two have such cute kids! Don’t feel alone in the being organized thing! We’re having a baby shower for our daughter here Sunday and I’ve got so much cleaning and organizing to do,it’s ridiculous. If I think about it too long, I think I might have a panick attack! AAahhh…too late…..just kidding. But being organized can be difficult. There’s not a boss breathing down my neck to fire me if I don’t do my job (well, my hubby has tried, but that does not go over well at all!) so it is a daily struggle for me to be motivated! And my hubby would probably love to have a magazine perfect, Better Homes and Gardens house if it were completely up to him. He even likes our closets and storage room to be completely organized. I love my guy though. He is very giving, willing to try, has ambition like no one else I know, is fun to hang around with and a great provider! You’d be amazed how much the older kids can help out with the younger ones too. I have struggled with feeling guilty asking my kids to help out thinking,”If I had my act together. I could do all this myself! I shouldn’t need to be asking for help!” When you need help,please ask for it! I agree with Krista. From what I’ve seen from sneak peaks in pictures, you are doing great! If my kids rooms ever look that good, I’ll post a picture…don’t count on it! We love you all bunches and blessings on your pregnancy!!! Dennis did get the order for Sandusky,Ohio! Not sure when they will be installing stuff yet, but I hope I can tag along with him and hopefully,fingers crossed, get to see you all! And we decided where to go for our anniversary…Italy π
Isobel
March 26, 2012 at 6:27 pm
Amen to all of this! π
Susie Michaud
April 2, 2012 at 10:40 am
Riete and Isobel, How close do either of you live to Germany?
Isobel
April 4, 2012 at 6:00 am
Hi Susie,
We’re in Geel , in Belgium , which is about an hour from the German border. Germany is a lot bigger than Belgium , so depending on which city or region you have in mind , that’s probably not a lot to go on….
Susie Michaud
April 12, 2012 at 12:18 pm
I might get the opportunity to go to Germany this summer. It would be really neat to meet you if possible!
Isobel
April 18, 2012 at 3:47 pm
Wow! Keep us posted!! That would be sooo great. We’ll be in Scotland in July , so that would be out but please let us know when and where. How cool would that be. π
Would that also be for your anniversary? How many years?
Isobel x
Jenn
March 26, 2012 at 8:37 am
Shut UP! This is so exciting! I am so glad that you didn’t let fear of the unknown keep you from growing your family. And your big girls will be able to help you so much more this time around. Tim and I have been on the fence about another baby for a while now, but we always said we wanted an even number… and I am creeping so very close to “advanced maternal age.” Ha ha.
Anyway, this is wonderful news to read this morning. I will be praying for your new baby and for your strength and health as you run a home with three little ones.
Congratulations!
Nan Lowery
March 26, 2012 at 8:51 am
What wonderful news! All babies are such blessings and adding another blessing to your family is, well, a blessing!! Continuing to pray for your sweet family and so happy that Bowen continues to make such great progress. God is faithful.
Sharon Gartley
March 26, 2012 at 8:55 am
Such great news! I am so happy for you!! Hugs and blessings (and continued prayers)!
Sharon
Karen Lindsey
March 26, 2012 at 8:56 am
B.E.A.U.T.I.F.U.L.
Lisa G
March 26, 2012 at 9:05 am
Congratulations!! So happy for you! The new baby is going to be blessed with such an awesome family!!
I said a prayer for Mommy and baby to be and keep Bowen and you’re whole family in my prayers!
Christina
March 26, 2012 at 9:11 am
Dear Sarah,
I was touched by this post. A new baby is wonderful news! God bless you and give you much grace for your pregnancy, and shower you with wisdom and His love for raising these precious little people for Him.
I’m a stay-home, homeschooling mom with four children and the youngest has HLHS and is three months younger than Bowen. I appreciate your blog and it was especially helpful the first several months after Grant was born, giving me an idea of what to expect. Thank you so much!
I definitely sympathize with your feelings about the organizational skills! I have the same problem plus terrible time management! It’s something I’ve asked God to help me with countless times, but am learning that if I give my life and time to Him and do the best I can without fretting (too much!), He does a much better job of managing my life than I do. It’s amazing how He works things into and out of “my schedule” as needed! With my oldest daughter at twelve years, I increasingly see the importance of spending lots and lots of time with the children, and do not regret a moment I sacrificed for them. However it IS a constant challenge to juggle the household and school duties with fun times and personal moments with each one.:) But I LOVE my job and consider it to be one of the most influential and fulfilling careers possible!
From my heart,
Christina
Tammi T. (mom of an HLHS boy)
March 26, 2012 at 11:13 pm
Thanks for sharing! I know our paths have never crossed; however God has used your words to encourage me. I’m a homeschool mom of 2 boys – the youngest having HLHS. I have been struggling with time management issues and have been growing discouraged with the challenges that come with homeschooling and maintaining a home; as well as meeting the needs of my family. Your post made me realize that I haven’t been totally putting it into God’s hands. Thanks for sharing.
Megan
March 26, 2012 at 9:21 am
Wow – how exciting! This baby is already blessed to be part of such a wonderful family focused on Christ. Matt – our family loves your music and has been to see Sanctus Real many times. Your passion for Christ and for your family is contagious! Sarah & Matt – Bowen’s story has been something we have shared with our children. We will continue to pray for you all! I look forward to your updates and spiritual encouragement. God has given you an important ministry. Thank you for sharing!
Maria aka Rockermom
March 26, 2012 at 9:37 am
Good morning and blessings to the growing Hammitt family. Thanks Sarah for taking time to share with us and post these beautiful pictures. It blesses my heart to see that Bowen is doing so well. Cant wait till the day I meet him and the new baby. Much love to all of you!
Darlene Greer
March 26, 2012 at 10:15 am
Congratulations may God continue to bless your family.
Judy Fussell
March 26, 2012 at 10:19 am
Wow! What an awesome post! Congratulations Matt, Sarah and the Hammitt family! π I continue to be faithful in my daily prayers for Bowen. Love, love, love the pictures and I am so encouraged to read he is doing so well. I just recently switched from prayers for “Baby Bowen” to “Little Bowen” and now I find out he’s going to be a big brother – how awesome is God! What a courageous step of faith to decide to have another baby. My prayers will be with you all.
Judy Fussell
St. Peters, MO
janis gonzalez
March 26, 2012 at 10:26 am
Sarah~ What wonderful Blessed news! I dont comment as often as I use to but yes, continue to keep you all in prayer. I love hearing Matt’s band on the radio, and immediately think of Bowen and his prescious sisters & parents when I hear Matt sing.
Have a wonderful pregnancy! Love & Prayersto you all. And thank you for updating us!
Bonnie
March 26, 2012 at 10:30 am
Am so happy for your family. It’s wonderful how well your little man is doing. Love the photo announement. Prayers for all of you! May God continue to bless your family.
Grace Mae~
March 26, 2012 at 10:32 am
Hi Sarah, Matt, Emmy, Claire and Sweet Bowen,
Congratulations on the wonderful news of a new little one. I am so happy for you all.
I’ve been praying for you since I first heard about Bowen.
Is there a way to contact you about getting something mailed to you all?
Email me and let me know,
Grace Mae~
Andrino Family
March 26, 2012 at 10:53 am
PtL! Congratulations on the news of your little one how exciting! Our first baby was born with a birth defect and she has 7 brothers and sisters behind her! And the organizational thing if I could only encourage you!!! It is sometimes overwhelming but the children are so worth it! I am sure you will do great! Congratulations to all of you! We can’t wait to hear about your growing baby’s progress! Again congratulations what a blessing! Love in Christ, all of us Andrino’s 8^) 8^) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
Cindy
March 26, 2012 at 10:58 am
Congratulations to all of you. Bowen will be an amazing big brother, he’s growing so fast!!!
Your new baby will certainly be blessed by having such an amazing family. Will be praying for you all and the new little one.
God Bless,
Cindy
Sylvia Turner (aka heiresschild)
March 26, 2012 at 11:39 am
wow! the children have all really grown. congrats on the good news! this email was right on time this morning as i was needing a little pick-me-up, and your post did just that! congratulations again to your whole family! much love and blessings to you all.
Jessica Scranton
March 26, 2012 at 12:20 pm
Congratulations Hammitt Family!
What amazing news!! You all and in our thoughts and prayers daily as you continue this exciting time in your lives! The pictures of the kiddos are just perfect! Thank you for sharing!
julie halll
March 26, 2012 at 12:51 pm
CONGRATS!!!! to your sweet family!! Praying for a wonderful pregnancy and a healthy baby!!
The Lavina Family
March 26, 2012 at 1:32 pm
Hammitt Family!!!!!
What wonderful news! So incredibly happy for you! Can’t wait to share the news with the rest of my family. Also thrilled to see a new post this morning with an update on your family. Bowen and the girls look great!! Don’t forget to post pregnancy pictures : )…there’s nothing more beautiful than a growing baby belly!! xoxo
With love and enthusiastic congratulations,
Dana, Carmelo, Claudia and Ethan Lavina
Connie Lancaster
March 26, 2012 at 2:57 pm
Congrats to all of you! I know you are all excited.
Veronica
March 26, 2012 at 3:05 pm
Congratulations!!! : ) I was just thinking about you yesterday! Was wondering if I’d somehow missed an email saying that you had posted a new blog! Here it is! : ) I was so hoping you two wouldn’t be done! You’re such a beautiful pregnant lady and you two are such great parents! God Bless you and your sweet family!
Victoria Soto
March 26, 2012 at 3:15 pm
It’s been such an honor to follow what was happening with your family over the last year and a half or so. Sooo inspirational. I haven’t had the experience of having children or any family with special needs, but it doesn’t matter. Bowen’s story, and you and Matt being so open about your experience, has shown me first of all how powerful God is, and second, how I want to carry myself as a woman of God. Thank you so much for sharing, and huge congratulations on the new baby! I’m pretty sure that God has used your family in ways you’ll never know, including Bowen. I hope someday I get the honor of meeting your family!
Shelly Silverberg
March 26, 2012 at 3:38 pm
Congratulations Hammitt family!!!! We are ecstatic for you!!!
Lisa
March 26, 2012 at 3:55 pm
What a beautiful family! Im so happy to hear that Bowen is doing so well. He is so stinkin cute =) Congratulations on the new bundle of joy that will enter your lives soon. What a blessing. I was hoping to go see Matt this week here in Indianapolis for Winter Jam. Unfortunately, I will not be able to make it. Hopefully one day.
God bless you!
Lisa
Kelly Wagner
March 26, 2012 at 4:14 pm
Congratulations! Wishing lots of blessings on your pregnancy and your family as you prepare for the newest arrival. Glad that Bowen is doing so well…I will continue to pray for him as he grows. Sending love and prayers from Viriginia…
miranda
March 26, 2012 at 4:29 pm
congrats; wonderful news :).
Debbie
March 26, 2012 at 5:00 pm
Congratulations! I am very happy to hear that your family will soon be plus 1. I pray that God continue blessing you and your whole family.
Suzie
March 26, 2012 at 5:06 pm
Congratulations….I am so happy to hear your news Sarah. As a CRNA I have followed your progress with great interest and compassion. I have been so blessed by the things you and Matt have shared…struggles and joys. Thank you for sharing your heart, lives and the pics that are so heart warming!!
Suzie
Mallory Fields
March 26, 2012 at 6:01 pm
Congrats!!!!!!!! Im so happy for you all I pray that the baby will be healthy. I know that all the kids are excited. I wish you all the very best and if it’s a girl name it Mallory. But whatever yall name it will be perfect! We are all praying for you guys to make it through!!!!
Connie Richard
March 26, 2012 at 6:47 pm
Congratulations!!! I am sooo happy for the Hammitt family. Sarah, you are right in stating that God is good.
Blessings to All
Katie
March 26, 2012 at 8:17 pm
Such exciting news!!! I’m so happy for you guys π I’m the youngest of 3 and I always wanted a sibling. I felt my brothers always had each other and I was alone…so I think 4 seems like the perfect number!
Deborah Bequette
March 26, 2012 at 9:21 pm
PRAISEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I just absolutely LOVE HIM!!! I am thrilled to see your news about a new special sweet baby coming into your home! CONGRATULATIONS! My heart just swells in amazement of just how great our God is. Every time I see sweet Bowen’s face all I can do is praise God for healing and MIRACLES! Jesus HOW do people live without you??????
Enjoy the journey sweet family! Thank you so much for bringing so much joy to my day!
Your Texas prayer partner,
Deborah
Dallas, TX
Alaina
March 26, 2012 at 9:34 pm
So happy to hear from u again i love the pictures god is an awsome god to bless u guys with another child bowen is going to be a grate big brother and the girls will be grate big sisters to another little babyby guyd will be awsome parents well u already are and thats what i love when i checked to see if rhere was a post shure enough there was and then when i read it i was even more happyer thanks for sharing we all love to hear from u guys i widh u luck and will pray for guys<3 remember god is awsome + grate
Alaina
March 26, 2012 at 9:37 pm
Hope the baby will be healthy and iv aleays wanted 4 children four is perfect
Emily Laywell
March 26, 2012 at 10:10 pm
I was so excited to read this!!! Bowen is getting so big! And he looks so healthy! Praise the Lord that he is doing so well! I am glad to finally hear something. I’ve have been waiting anxiously for the next post. And the news that a new baby is on the way!!! That’s SOOOOOOOOO exciting!!! Congratulations!!! π π π I still remember you guys in my prayers and I think of you all frequently. Again, congrats on Bowen doing so well and the new baby!!! Bowen sure is one smart, cute little guy!!!
Elizabeth Daniel
March 26, 2012 at 10:56 pm
I am beyond excited for you! Bowen will make an excellent big brother. I feel like a part of the family. I love you guys.
Tammi T. (mom of an HLHS boy)
March 26, 2012 at 11:18 pm
How exciting!!!!!!!! CONGRATULATIONS!!! I LOVE the pic of Bowen holding the announcement. What wonderdull Christmas pics you’ll have this year. You’re in our prayers. May God bless!
Holly from Pevely, MO
March 26, 2012 at 11:24 pm
CONGRATULATIONS !!! you have no idea who I am but I have commented a few times. Bowen and I share the same birthday but I am 52 years older than him !!! I live down the highway from the lady above from St. Peters and found out about Bowen from JOY FM (yeah for Christian radio !!!).
Praise God for babies !!!!!
Gabriele
March 26, 2012 at 11:40 pm
Congratulations to you!
And don’t worry: since every conception is TOTALLY in God’s hand you don’t have to worry if you made the right decision, because it wasn’t you who made it anyway.
You have such a great family. My prayers are with you all.
God bless
Gabriele
Ron
March 27, 2012 at 7:15 am
Congratulations guys! That’s really great news! I’m so happy for you!
Bowen looks great! It’s great hearing from you again!
(That’s a lot of !’s)
May God continue to bless you, and all of us through your story!
Thanks adding a smile to my face this morning. π
P.S. Nicole may have let it slip a couple weeks ago. π But it’s great to hear from you!
Ashley
March 27, 2012 at 12:05 pm
I love it! Children are such a blessing and your family will surely be blessed by this newest addition. It was such a joy to meet you (Sarah) on the Love Like You Mean It cruise. I’ve been praying for you and your entire family, and especially Bowen, for so long. It warmed my heart to chat with you face to face and to know that you are as genuine in person as you seem on this blog. Many congratulations to you all!!
Judy P
March 27, 2012 at 2:03 pm
It is so good to hear of all the wonderful things your family is doing and sharing together. I am so thankful God has allowed me to get to know your family.
So happy you will be a Mom again and Matt a Dad. We do serve an awesome God.
I just feel compelled to share what God dropped in my heart the other day. I was thinking why did God save me. I know He saved me from my sin and made me a Child of God. But, why did he do this. Then God spoke to me and said because He wanted fellowship with me. How awesome is that to hear. Fellowship with each and everyone of us.
I so love your family although I have never had the opportunity to meet, I know one day I will.
God bless!
Love, Judy
Jessica T.
March 27, 2012 at 2:03 pm
CONGRATS! How exciting that is for you guys!!! π SO SO happy for you! Praying for you Sarah during your pregnancy, I have been babysitting for a long time and have spent many hours with pregnant moms and have learned when there’s already one or more kids under foot it can be long and tiring so I hope your getting rest!
And I pray this baby is growing healthy, and that you guys family stays healthy and that you are enjoying the amazing weather!!! π So glad to hear Bowen is doing so well too, God is good and faithful!! π
Gail
March 27, 2012 at 5:16 pm
I have followed your blog on Bowen since first hearing about it (when he was born). It has been a blessing to see God working in Bowen’s life. Your family has been in my prayers daily and your story has helped me to remember how good God is. I am so excited to hear the news of your new baby. God bless you all as you have blessed us by sharing and letting us see how wonderful God is!
Stephanie
March 27, 2012 at 7:41 pm
WOO HOO!! Congratulations Hammitts!!!
Tracy
March 27, 2012 at 8:18 pm
Congratulations! SO excited for your family!
Dianne
March 27, 2012 at 9:25 pm
Congratulations! That is so exciting.
Bowen will make a wonderful big brother!
God bless all of you.
Erin D.
March 27, 2012 at 11:36 pm
Congrats!!!! We are so excited for you. Your cup runneth over!
Jerrilyn
March 28, 2012 at 2:05 am
Congratulations Hammit family! It is such a blessing to read of Bowen’s progress and your trust in the Lord.
Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4
… and so as your faith grows, so does your family… God bless both.
Mary Powers
March 28, 2012 at 8:58 am
WooHoo!!! What FABULOUS news! How EXCITING!!! I think Bowen will make a fantastic big brother!
I understand your fears, Sarah. My oldest son was dx’ed with Type 1 diabetes at age 2. He was a handful to manage, and often, I didn’t manage well. When my second son was born with severe heart defects, I couldn’t imagine how *I* could be struck with two medical maladies. I wept at my son’s bedside and asked what I had done wrong. The surgeon replied, “You’ve done nothing wrong, Mom. You’ve just won the lottery.” I shook my head in disbelief, “That’s impossible! I can’t win the lottery twice!” So, being pregnant with my 3rd child was a fearful thing. Though I prayed and trusted God with the outcome, I was certain He had another shoe to drop — something to use for my growing. I was SHOCKED to have given birth to a perfectly healthy baby girl! So, I named her “Grace”.
We will be praying for you and your little one-to-be, as well as the rest of the Hammitt household,
~Mary
Micah Peacock
March 28, 2012 at 1:55 pm
I could cry. So happy for your family! I’m thinking….another perfect little boy ; ) No wait – a girl. Haha, I don’t know. Who knows?! Oh my word, so so so happy for you!
Bunches of love, prayers, and happy wishes : )
Love,
Micah P.
Erin
March 28, 2012 at 2:06 pm
Wow what awesome news! God is Great! Bowen looks amazing and I’m sure he will be a fabulous big brother. It is all part of the Lord’s plan for your family!
Page Family
March 29, 2012 at 10:29 am
How awesome! We are extremely excited for your family as you welcome in another little one. It is also great to see Bowen doing so well. May Christ continue to bless your family beyond measure and may you continue to have much joy. π
tiff & cora
March 29, 2012 at 10:29 am
You all have come so far. Bowen looks great, and seems so very happy. Your family continues to be in our thoughts and prayers. Congrats on your new little blessing.
Sarah
March 29, 2012 at 10:44 am
Congratulations on your new addition coming this fall! I love reading the updates on Bowen! He is one adorable little man. May you continue to feel God’s guidance and blessings!
Jean
March 29, 2012 at 9:42 pm
Congratulations on baby #4! Will keep praying for all to go well. Bowen is so cute. Love all of the pictures.
Melanie Lake
March 30, 2012 at 9:07 am
CONGRATULATIONS guys!!! I am so happy to hear the good news. I am also happy to hear that Bowen is doing well. God is so good!!! Continued prayers and support for everyone.
Love in Christ,
Melanie
Jill Leebrick
March 30, 2012 at 2:34 pm
YAY!! What great news indeed. I’m sure the girls are so excited as well. So happy for all of you. And thrilled to hear that Bowen is doing so well. We serve a big God and everything will work out just fine. One day you and Matt will be sitting on the front porch in rocking chairs with big smiles….
Tabitha Justice
March 30, 2012 at 8:17 pm
Congratulations! We are very happy for all 6 of you.
Riete
March 31, 2012 at 8:04 am
I’m late in reading this but I’m so very, very happy for you! Congratulations!
And Bowen looks awesome!! He will make a fantastic big brother!
Victoria
April 1, 2012 at 2:19 pm
Congratulations, Hammitt Family! What exciting news!
Cathy
April 3, 2012 at 8:02 pm
Congratulations to the Hammitt Family — Blessings abound!!
Jennifer
April 4, 2012 at 1:39 pm
Congrats Hammitt family on your announcement of a new little Hammitt on the way! So happy and excited for you all! I want to say that, for the first time in my life (and I’m 36 years old!) I got to go to a concert! It was WinterJam in Indianapolis! I enjoyed listening to all of the bands and it was a great message! So I want to thank you, Matt and Sarah, for all that you do! Not only are you raising a wonderful family, you are helping to spread God’s word! As I listened to Matt signing last Friday night, I was remembering all of the posts from the Bowen’s Heart website and all of the struggles you and your family went through. And when Matt said “These are my prayers” to thousands of people, it just made me realize that every prayer, big and small, is special to God and HE cares so much and it showed on that stage! I didn’t get to meet Matt, but my husband got to listen to him when they had a pastors prayer meeting backstage. I want to say THANK YOU for staying strong in the Lord! I know that you will be incredibly blessed with your new little arrival!
Love and Blessings!
Pastor Mike and Jennifer Harper
Mt Calvary
Bloomfield, IN
Wendy Clark
April 4, 2012 at 9:02 pm
Congratulations to you and your family! You are always in our thoughts and prayers!
Sarah, only sorry that I will miss seeing you at the OB office w/this fourth pregnancy. I know you will be (and have always been) in very good Hands!
Take care!!
Wendy
Madeline Eaks
April 5, 2012 at 6:59 pm
Your family is beautiful! Congratulations to all of you!!
Holly Johnson
April 5, 2012 at 10:52 pm
So happy for another blessing to your family from God!! Thanks for sharing the great news!
Carol
April 9, 2012 at 9:18 pm
Congratulations, such exciting and beautiful news!! So happy for all of you!
Toni
April 10, 2012 at 4:10 pm
Beautiful news! Thank you for sharing <3
Lysbeth Smith
April 10, 2012 at 10:26 pm
Very, very happy for your blessed family.
Melissa Austin
April 10, 2012 at 10:49 pm
Congratulations! I have followed your blog about Bowen since his early days. I have a 3 year old boy and 10 month old girl. As a mother, my heart has felt the highs and lows of your journey with Bowen and I am elated that he is doing so well. Praise God. You have a beautiful family and admire the faith you both have to open the door to another blessing. I am excited to hear the updates about your pregnancy, Bowen and the rest of your family. God Bless you on this new chapter of your lives.
Piper
April 11, 2012 at 2:28 am
Congratulations π
Stacy Gerlach
April 11, 2012 at 1:40 pm
CONGRATS!!!!
Super news…4 IS a good number. I have 4! Always wanted 4…We will always have 4!
My baby went to be with Jesus last month but God is so good….He blessed us with 21 years with him when doctors said 5 years was max…they had no clue what God had in store…
Prayers and Blessings to you & your family!!!
Eva Hunter
April 12, 2012 at 4:42 pm
Sarah and Matt
Wow what great news, I’m so happy for you. If the Lord didn’t want to have more children he would let you know. You two are such great people and parents, I want you for my parents. Boy what a blessing Bowen is he is just a sweetie pie and along with the girls they are getting big. I was having a bad week this week at work and I come to your web site and you just up lift me with seeing the kids and all that going on with your family. It is just a joy to my heart, the Lord is so good to us and it is so great we can count on him to be with us where we are going. Take Care and God Bless you alll.
Kristen Arispe
April 12, 2012 at 9:09 pm
Thinking of you all today. So many mountains and valleys crossed in the last two years. So happy to hear the good news of another blessing on the way. I think Bowen is going to love being a big brother. π π Praying for your baby, and for you, Sarah, for God to strengthen and bless you each day as you serve your family while God knits together and grows this little blessing.
Tera Farhat
April 14, 2012 at 2:06 pm
Congratulations!!! How exciting for the whole family. We are delivering our HRHS baby next week at Mott. We have pulled so much strength and courage from you.
Thank you
Tera Farhat
Robbin Czerny
April 16, 2012 at 9:15 pm
Congratulations Hammitt Family!! God has indeed blessed you with another bundle.
A brief word of encouragement. Gabriel, our special heart, is our 3rd child. It was so hard to leave the bigger ones during various procedures for him. When we were “surprised” with baby #4 I was concerned about having to put another baby through the trails of an older brother with heart issues. God was amazing, baby #4 was heart healthy and did amazing during Gabriel’s fontan surgery.
((HUGS))
Robbin
Ali McCormick
April 18, 2012 at 12:05 am
Congrats to both of you. I am so glad to hear how well Bowen is doing. What a blessing. May God continue to watch over and protect your family.
Amanda
April 22, 2012 at 3:07 pm
Congratulations Sarah and the Hammitt Family!! Keep those pictures coming!!!!
Lisa Mom of 5 boys
May 11, 2012 at 9:56 pm
Well, I guess it’s never too late for a big CONGRATS!!!! This is great news. Children are such a blessing!
I too, am expecting #6 in November. I went through 2 miscarriages prior to this pregnancy… It just reaffirmed that I was TRULY blessed to have 5 healthy children in a row… and that fertility is fleeting and won’t last forever.
Just a side note, now that you’ve been through so much with Bowen. What do you think of level 2 ultrasound? Do you think it is necessary to pick up on serious heart conditions? Any thoughts on a regular ultrasound versus a level 2 ultrasound when it comes to detecting heart conditions? I have the option of doing a level 2 this time, but I may be on a long waiting list and have a very large co-pay.
Sarah, I hope you are feeling OK? Have you ever heard of ABOVE RUBIES? It is an AWESOME Christian ministry to mothers. VERY encouraging. Their magazine is free, and the website is packed full of encouragement for moms. http://www.aboverubies.org
I am glad to hear that God continues to watch over Bowen. He is such a miracle.
blessings,
Lisa
Amelia Boomker
May 15, 2012 at 8:08 am
Congratulations! As another heart mom also expecting my fourth (hopefully heart healthy) boy, I just want to say to be sure to insist on a fetal echo for this one. They should do it automatically since Bowen’s condition will make this a high risk pregnancy for you, but I just want to make sure. I hope this one is perfectly healthy! (After my HLHS child, I’ve had two more heart healthy since.)
Lainie Brown
May 21, 2012 at 12:11 pm
Grace told me your happy news. I have been a bit behind. Congratulations to the whole family
Kari
May 28, 2012 at 8:40 pm
Congratulations! May God bless you with many more beautiful treasures!
Shannon
June 30, 2012 at 9:41 pm
I can’t tell you how excited I was to read this – even if I am very late reading it. My husband and I also had a son born with a different type of heart and liver issue that led to first year of hospitals, doctors, therapy, chemo, and one terrifying day in the ER watching him be revived after going into arrest. Three months into our journey with our Alex, we found out we were pregnant with our 4th child. I had the same fears I’m sure you did. Can I manage a baby and a child that needs extra care? What if this child has the same issues or something worse? Will my oldest (Alex is a twin so his brother was only slightly aware of what was going on) survive if things don’t go smoothly – am I setting her up for night terrors again etc. I was so blessed to have an amazing doctor who understood my fears and helped me to know our daughter was perfect. I wasn’t convinced until I saw and heard her in the delivery room. She was the biggest and strongest of the 4 and I cannot tell you the healing I experienced with her birth. We are also blessed that Alex, now 6 shows no outward signs of his trials and there must be something about being around all those genius doctors because he knows things I cannot imagine a 6 year old being able to comprehend. I pray that your new little boy will bring you more amazing adventures and that Bowen will continue to thrive and love being a big brother as much as our son does. Thank you for sharing this journey with us.
Stephanie
July 7, 2012 at 5:59 pm
Congrats!!!
big brother
June 14, 2013 at 11:30 am
Can I simply just say what a comfort to discover somebody that truly knows what they’re talking about on the net. You actually know how to bring a problem to light and make it important. A lot more people really need to read this and understand this side of your story. It’s surprising
you’re not more popular because you most certainly possess the gift.