New Day

Yesterday, we faced a pretty big scare...one that shook me unlike any we had faced up to this point. Even once we knew all was okay and "normal," I just couldn't shake my uneasiness. I am willing to do whatever it takes to keep you safe. To think it could've all been taken away so quickly and suddenly yesterday was just terrifying.

I'm thankful for my family's visit yesterday. They forced me out of my funk, made me take my weekly picture, and did all they could to keep my mind occupied. As always, before leaving, Paka offered a prayer for our sweet family. I felt myself relax and feel comforted with his prayer. I offered my own silent prayer that this peace would continue through today.

I am so thankful that the Lord heard our prayers. I tend to get really anxious at night. By the evening, I am the most sore from the day's "activity." You would think I would notice this pattern, but every night it makes me nervous. Last night was the most peaceful I have ever felt before going to sleep. And even better, I woke up in that same peace.

Today I saw three doctors, all were very positive and optimistic. From there, my day just got better. I spent the day with Zsu Zsu and we kept super busy today! We chatted, watched some movies, showered, knitted, and even took a spin around the third floor! That afternoon Aunt Aubrey joined us for "Massage Monday," and gave my hands and feet a fabulous massage (oil and all! she's the best!).

feelin' good!

third floor stroll, here I come!

thanks Zsu Zsu! new hobby!

massage monday!

Later in the evening we enjoyed a visit from Grandpa Curran, Paka, and some of our close church family. It was such a turn around from yesterday's roller coaster ride. I thank God for His peace. I thank God for my family and how selfless they have been through this all. I thank God for another day you stayed put and stayed healthy. And I thank God that today was "a new day!"

It's a new day
Oh, it's a new time
And there's a new way
I'm gonna live my life
All the old has, passed away
And the new has come
Thank God, It's a brand new day

Movin' On Up

Friday Dr. Weeks had given us another positive report, pleased that my body was not fighting the surgery and was still infection free. He also said his goodbyes, letting us know he would not be back for at least six days, but his partner would check in daily. 

Saturday morning brought on our goofy nurse, who stressed me out completely. As I lay in the hospital bed, I was praying and trying to find comfort in our situation. At that moment there was a knock on the door and a familiar face came in...Dr. Weeks! "Well, I had a little more paperwork to follow up on and a few patients I wanted to check up on." I was so comforted to see him since he knows the intricate details of our difficult stimulation.

So, I shared my concerns with him. He was so positive and pleased with the progress we had made! I count Dr. Weeks' surprise visit a complete act of God. Here I had been praying for comfort and reassurance and in walks the doctor who can be painfully honest...and yet he was so positive! I instantly felt peace and thanked God for this small blessing. 

And then, things got even better. Dr. Weeks was so pleased with our stable condition, he decided we didn't need to wait until Monday to move upstairs, he was ready to send us to a more permanent room Saturday.  So, not long after, we were headed to the third floor where we would not need the constant hourly monitoring. 

We packed up the room, I "hopped" in my wheelchair, and we headed to my new room. I have accomplished and overcame a lot of fears in just one week, but this may have been one of my proudest moments. For the first time in over twelve years, I rode an elevator. And not only did I ride an elevator, I rode an elevator without having a panic attack!! You, my boys, have given me more strength than I ever thought possible. I love you more than I could imagine even possible and believe me, I will do whatever it takes to keep you safe and healthy. 

23 Weeks

watchin' you two wiggle!

hospital cuddlin'

sweet smooches

always there to comfort me

lovin' on our boys

Holding to Our Faith

Last night was a difficult night for me. Thursday and Friday had been such positive days, yet by Friday evening I was feeling discouraged. I was having several contractions which were making me nervous and just overall uncomfortable.

I kept reminding myself that I had just had a very difficult surgery done, as well as have now been on bed rest for a week. Moving around (even if just to the bathroom) was bound to make me sore and tired. Nonetheless, it caused some anxiety and nervousness in me last night. I told myself to just get a good night's sleep and in the morning, I wouldn't be as sore.

I woke up somewhat disappointed to find I was still uncomfortable and still contracting. "This is normal," I reminded myself. "Dr. Weeks told you to expect constant contractions from now until I deliver." Still, I felt uneasy.

So, I decided to share my concerns with my nurse. I mentioned the pain, as well as a few other side effects I was still experiencing from the surgery. "Should I be nervous?" I asked, looking for some reassurance.

"Your whole situation is very difficult. I would be nervous about everything. Your cervix was in a very delicate, difficult situation to deal with. So yes, you have several more weeks to get through before I wouldn't feel nervous anymore."
Sheesh. So much for a new, positive start to my day.

So, I texted Keal immediately, looking for reassurance from him, since the nurse failed miserably.

After my initial text, I said, "I was feeling so anxious / stressed last night, got a good night's sleep to clear my mind, and now I'm gonna have that lingering all day. I'm trying to remind myself, Dr. Weeks was positive, so I'm gonna be positive. Just have to really pray hard. Our boys are gonna be just fine."

His response was perfection.

"Overcomer came on just as I was reading your text."

"That's so awesome!! They're gonna be our little overcomers for sure!! I love you!"

"I love you. Drink water and relax today. Read a book, watch TV, keep that busy mind a working!"

I am so grateful for his response and kind words. I am grateful for God comforting us both this morning. I don't need a nurse to tell us we're going to be okay. I know we are going to be okay, regardless of our statistics; regardless of what science tells our doctors and nurses. We are going to hold tight to our faith, knowing with 100% certainty that you boys will be just perfect.

One More Day

"One More Day" is the song your father keeps singing throughout the week! Each day is another victory. We do not take it lightly that we make it through another day without your arrival (yes, we want to meet you...just not yet, Little Ones!).

Today, I met with Dr. Weeks again. This is absolutely the most positive we have ever seen him and count the victory the Lord's! My white blood count is still low, so still no infection!! He hinted that if we've made it this far without fever / high white blood cells, most of the time, you will not have an infection. I was on cloud nine after hearing this! He also even mentioned that if I really behave myself, I may even be looking at a short stroll down the hallway (although I don't know if I even want to attempt that...I'm quite content to stay plopped in my hospital bed if it keeps you safe).

Today we are praising God for one more day and for more answered prayers! You are well and healthy, I am doing good today and much healthier too...today is a great day! We will continue praising God for you, our miracles until you are born and will continue praying to keep you safe!

Encouraging Words

We have been beyond blessed with an outpouring of prayers, texts, calls...you name it! We have been added to countless church prayer lists and have people praying for us that we don't even know. It is such a blessing sharing the love of Christ. We can feel the prayers working and know these prayers will carry you both safely through until you are ready to meet the world!

my family and rocks! been at my side each step of the way

Slow, But Steady

Thursday brought us a lot of new, wonderful firsts since being admitted:

• First time my feet touched the floor of room 16
• First time I sat up (besides for pills or meals)
• First time they disconnected me from the IV machine when meds aren't being administered (IV still in arm, ready for my 6 hour doses of antibiotic and iron)
• First time I could take the blood pressure cuff off, as well as the heart monitors
• First time I could shower (with a lot of sweet help from Zsu Zsu and Aunt Aubs)
• First time I enjoyed eating again / first time eating 3 meals in one day
• First time beginning my new Ensure regiment to help fatten me up / to help you grow stronger!
• First time receiving confident, positive news from our doctors

yum!

pre and post shower! feelin' sassy again!

Aunt Aubs capturing everything...including my first, independently eaten meal (don't I look happy with all these pics!)

Thursday was a great day. We just pray it continues that way and that we all continue to stay healthy!