Sorry, Computer Down!

My home computer has been on the blink. I am sorry but downloading Birthday pics almost crashed it so I had to remove them all. So no pics and limited updates. Right now I am using Brent's laptop, he brought it home from the office for the weekend. I am sorry I hope to get it fixed soon.

Brody is doing well. He is traveling around still holding onto things. He has taken a step here and there but usually falls upon trying. He is getting it. He holds up his index finger when you ask him how old he is (ok usually, sometimes 30 seconds after the fact, lol) He does patty cake, jabbers, still loves to climb, and is enamored with peek-a-boo. He is a total joy and couldn't be a more pleasant baby. Currently, he has a stuffy nose. I'm not sure if it is a cold or more teeth coming, time will tell.

We will start RSV shots in November. Also November 1st we will start staying in as much as possible and visitors will be limited as well. His lungs are still recovering from the damage of being a preemie and the pulmonary hemorrhage. Next winter we will not be in as much danger. The cold weather is not a danger as much as the chest colds that travel through the community this time of year, not to forget the dangerous RSV, which can be like a just a regular cold for us and deadly for babies.

Thank you for your continued love and support. I know so many of you still check on us because when I see you...you tell me the last time I wrote on the blog, lol. I can't tell you how it warms my heart that you still keep us in your thoughts and prayers.

The Birthday Boy

On Brody's Birthday, Thursday the 18th, we went out to breakfast, then to Sam's to buy cookies and cupcakes, then to the NICU. We wanted to celebrate with our NICU family. They all loved seeing Brody and they appreciated the goodies. He had a big day.

Then the big party on Saturday. What a day!!! Brody awoke at 4am, giggling. It's like he knew it was his party day. From then until 10pm he only had about 2 hours of naps. Saying he loved everyone singing to him is an understatement. What a joy watching him smile looking around at everyone. We had an awesome day and it was wonderful celebrating with all of our family and friends. As soon as Aunt Leeta gets pictures to us I will post them on the blog. I didn't take any pics, I knew I would be like a butterfly caught in a windstorm so I asked Brent's sister, Leeta, to be our photographer. She takes excellent pictures (especially of Brody) and I can't wait to see all that she captured.

Until then.......

Living

He played so hard he fell asleep in his play yard.

Crawling in the grass, he loved it.

And side note on the pics (for Swick especially) ....if you will note there is a lot of hair on his little head in the 1st pic but it appears to not be there on the 2nd. This is due to the lighting...Brody has hair it's just very fair. Although he hardly has any on the sides. It looks like he has a "high & tight" military cut. I think it's from the infamous NICU mohawk. He DOES have more hair than his Daddy, lol. This is my story and I'm sticking to it.

Today Brody and I enjoyed a long visit from our adopted college daughter, Chantelle. Our church has a program where a family adopts a different student each year. Well, we rebelled. We have kept Chantelle all four years. She graduates in December and we hope she finds a job around here so we don't have to let go just yet. She has been a blessing to us and Brody enjoyed playing with her today.

Then Brody and I went to college ourselves. We were on the campus of WVU. A friend of ours, Robin Smith, asked me to speak to her class of junior Social Worker majors about our story. I was more than willing to talk about my perfect guys. The class asked a few questions. One was where did I find my sweet husband. I am blessed! Brody stole the show though, he loved talking to everyone. It was an honor to be the spokesperson for our family and that WONDERFUL WVUH NICU. Have I told you lately how much I love those peps at that NICU? Master Brody and I went up the other day to visit and so many of the staff came out to see him and just made over him. A year later and they are still so amazing to us.

Speaking of amazing.....my grandparents are 86 and 89 and they have been married for over 70 years. Unfortunately they are getting to the point where it is necessary to either move to a nursing home or have round the clock care. It is a hard time in our family. I went to my uncles' business the other day and saw the picture of my grandfather in the foyer of when he was younger, stronger, (and remembered that I was his Deedlebug) and it broke my heart to have that flashback memory unexpectedly. My grandmother's mind is still very sharp but my grandfather's isn't at all. The thing he remembers the most right now is Brody. He loves "that baby". I think because last year he was more coherent and Brody was such a concern to all of our family. And it broke his heart that Brody had oxygen like him. It is hard to see him and know him and he not know me but it is a joy to take Brody for visits and brighten their day. Pappy (my grandfather) always wants to keep Brody. He'll say, "Hey Maw, do you just want to keep that baby?" And my Nan just laughs. Then Pappy talks about "that baby" for days.

Life quickly comes full circle in the midst of living. Master Brody is a year old, already. My grandparents are almost 90. And at the beginning of October my parent's will celebrate 48 years of marriage and Brent and I will follow at the end of the month with 14 years. I love to celebrate my birthday (understatement to those of you who know me well) because I love life. I am glad I was born. I am glad God wanted me to share in this awesome earth he created for us. I am blessed! Livin the dream!!!!

Party Party

Here are all the details about Brody's party. I am so excited. If you plan to attend please let us know either by calling, posting a comment, or calling. We hope you can come and celebrate with us.

God’s Precious Gift
A year ago Our Heavenly Father gave us the gift of a son,

and we want to celebrate his first year with you.

Please Join Our Family in a Day’s Celebration
September 20th
Chestnut Mountain Ranch
1pm – 8pm
Dinner at 5pm

Fireworks Shortly After Dark

Fun & Games
The Ranch offers a new softball field and two large ponds for fishing so please

bring your fishing poles & tackle. Also we will have horseshoes, volleyball, a

bounce house, and yard games, plus surprises for "kids" of all ages.

Your gift of love and support has meant more to us than any of you can ever

know. We want to celebrate our answered prayer with you. No gifts, please.

Small donations to Chestnut Mountain Ranch in honor of Brody are welcome.

The Ranch is dear to our hearts and is a huge part of our life. Brody making a

difference to others in need by your donation is a priceless gift to us.

If you plan to attend please call our home at 368-0104 or email us at

mrsbreeze94@yahoo.com by September 14th so we know how many

people to expect. Feel free to bring extended family and friends.

Save-the-Date

His first cookie

Napping with Daddy

Standing in my crib

Sitting with Papaw

Can you believe that Brody's birthday is just right around the corner? We hardly can. What a year!! We want to celebrate, so mark your calendars for September 20th because EVERYONE is invited to Brody's Birthday Bash. Details will be posted soon. Pass it on to all blog readers to keep checking because we don't want anyone left out. We can't wait to meet and celebrate with everyone who has been checking on our little guy and praying for him over this past year.

As far as that little guy.... The picture of him standing is the first time he stood. I walked in his room and there he was "up" after his nap. I squealed and Brent grabbed the camera and caught the moment. He travels around while holding onto things. And that 6th tooth finally made it in. Now his smile is even which makes Almost OCD Mommy happy, lol. We went to the Dr. on the 13th and he still weighs 21.5lbs and now measures at 28.5" long. Still eats everything in front of him although if I had to pick his favorites I would say squash and bananas. He loves music (ask anyone at church today - it was very obvious). And last night he drank successfully from a sippy cup. I didn't get a picture of some "too cute" events but I can share them with you. One was when I heard him behind me playing with the silverware in the dishwasher (I had forgotten that I left the door down) I assumed he was leaning, like he does, and grabbing for them. But when I spun around he was on all fours on the door. Then he was feeding Maddy Cheerios off of his tray, it was so cute. They are gonna be great buds. He often cries when his daddy leaves for work and in return almost makes Daddy cry too. He is a joy and I can't wait to share God's Precious Gift with everyone at his party.

We did find out at the Dr. that we will have the shots to prevent RSV again and be on limited visitation again so we will most likely go into hibernation again after his party untill May 1st.

Moving Right Along

Well Master Brody's accomplished crawling. Very fluent movement. He is amazing. And today he pulled himself completely up to his feet in his crib. Tooth #6 hasn't broken through yet but is SO close. He now eats a jar of Stage 1 baby food a day (split at two feedings). So far everything given to him he gobbles down, not particular at all. We have NO idea where he gets that LOL.

Some updates...Cousin Christian is doing well. (I'll ask cousin Jill if I can post a picture of him.) Growing and no continued problems with his heart. I heard from Hannah Grace's mom and they are doing well. Also I received an email form Waylon's mom and he is growing and doing well. Both moms sent pictures and both babes are perfectly adorable.

So Many Changes

What weighs 21.5lbs, has 5 teeth, and crawls????? You guessed it. Master Brody!!!!

He is amazing. He is not only caught-up on his size for his actual age of 9 mos but is catching-up developmentally also. I know it's because of all of YOUR prayers. You all have been amazing prayer warriors for our little man. His crawling is what we my niece calls belly-flop-leap-frog. But every five attempts he gets one fluent crawling motion. He has said mama and pop. But not because he saw me or my daddy but because he was jabbering away. (a trait he is bound to do considering his parents) The day he says it when he sees me - I will definitely melt.

He did wave at Brent the other day but only briefly. Now we have been trying to get him to duplicate it and he just barely moves his fingers wherever his hand might be. And the sweetest thing...Brent was rocking him the other night and I went to get a blanket for them and when I placed it over Brody he gave me the sweetest smile, like "Thanks Mom." We laughed and laughed. Oh... he does that too sometimes the more you laugh the more he laughs, too funny.

He got his first tooth around the middle of May and now they just keep coming. He is not fussy at all with them he just gets a little snotty nose. In the words of his grandmother's, "He is an angel."

The abundance of pictures are a peace offering for not writing in so long, especially for Aunt Sharon. Sorry :( Love you all and thank you for still checking on our little man. (ok not so little anymore, lol)

No Worries

First I want to say....The ladies in Pet Scans at WVUH Rock!!!! My sister-in-law, Jamie, works there and this sweet group of gals have prayed for our boy and they follow every other preemie website I post. Thank you ladies for your love and support. We are truly blessed to know you. We WILL come visit again. (Last appt we went so Brody could meet his fan club)

My brother, Craig, and Jamie came to visit Brody last night. I wanted to talk more about what Jamie and I were talking about last night....worry. Jamie always marvels at how through all of this I don't worry. There are many reason for this. 1) I never learned to worry. It is a taught reaction. Think of a huge worrier you know and I bet their parents are the same. My parents never taught me to worry - thank you God. 2) I am a realist - I know worry won't change an outcome. 3) God is in Control - Sincerely I believe this. Brody may have developmental delays (so far he's perfect). I am real enough to know he may have future problems from his humble start but I also KNOW that God has tomorrow covered and He is already there waiting for us. God empowers us to handle anything that life throws at us. So if one day Brody has problems...1) God will be with us. 2) He will give us the strenght and power to handle it. So why would I worry about something that God has coverad already?

Sorry I didn't blog last week I had a sinus infection and a couple vertebrea in my upper back jumped out of place. I don't think I could have held my arms in the position to type. But this week....much better.

Brody is an angel as usual. He still loves his jumpy chair. He loves to watch Maddy and touch her face (she is very tolerant - what a good girl). He is getting more vocal (as I write I hear him "talking" in his room) but he doesn't like an audience when he talks it's either by himself or just with one or two around. His hands aren't nearly as fascinating this week, and today he realized he had feet but I think that was because he had on his socks with the flying WV.

OK, so I wrote that on Monday and was going to come back to it (it is 10:40 on Thur night) and then I don't know what happened. Whew what a busy week. I'll update more tomorrow. Till then xoxoxoxo.

Stuffy Boy Update

Just incase you haven't seen our celebrity in ads. That's him (the little guy in the middle,lol) with his Nurse Tara.

Master Brody is fighting either a cold or allergies. He is very congested and not his happy self, although he still tries to be. It's 4:45am and I got up about 3:00 to check him and now can't go back to sleep. Tomorrow my wagon will be draggin, oh well.

Other than being stuffy he is good. He loves his jumpy seat, oh my, you should see how he jumps and laughs, especially when Daddy is singing to him. He is getting along just fine with his heart, no more episodes since the doc adjusted his med dosage. When on his belly he is really lifting himself high, it probably won't be long before he is crawling. He is doing everything perfectly for his corrected age.

If you remember I told you I would blog more about Our Favorite Things/ Importance Challenge. It may come in parts because I think sleep is finally finding me.....and I have a collage of thoughts.

The reason I decided to do this little exercise is because for a couple of days in a row it was presented to me so I took it as a God Prompt to talk to you. Anyone that has been in any touchy/feely class with me at church may remember that if we are ever to "confess" our biggest fear mine is always the same, "having to live without Brent". I don't EVER want to do that, ever. Brent knows this and he always prays that he outlives me (sounds weird if you didn't know my fear). Someone that was visiting us recently said that while it was touch and go for our little man they prayed for God to not take him home because I wouldn't survive it. Hmmm... Obviously, not a blog reader, you all know my faith. God will always meet me at tomorrow and I can survive anything with Christ, so that comment for me was hurtful to my strength of faith. But the deeper Brody gets ingrained into us and our life, neither Brent nor I can imagine life without him. Even in the NICU he was ours and we wanted nothing more than to protect, love, and nurture him. In Brent's words we were "hard-wired" to want to do these things for Brody.

Then I read a story in Reader's Digest about a woman that lost her son in 9-11..........til next time.

Oh and remind me to tell you all about our March for Dimes walk too. Good night cyber-family.

Isn't he cute?

Once again it is late and I am still working to catch-up on lost sleep. So I will ask for forgiveness by buying you off with some adorable pictures of Master Brody. I PROMISE the details of our 12 hour PICU trip tomorrow. I have gotten a few emails and phone calls, thank you for your concern, love, and support. You all are great and we love you. (Brodys Daddy here) filling in for the much exhasted Brodys Mommy. Basically he Red Lined the Tachometer again. Early thursday morning Maddy was going back and forth between his room and the living room where Deedee was folding clothes and when she went to check on him he was moaning and restless. After changing him and trying to settle him she quickly decided to check his pulse and found it to be 256 according to our in home monitor. She then got me up and we attempted the few things they taught us to try with no success. So packed up we went to Ruby. They were awesome as usuall. It took over an hour to get it Broke from 288 to back down to 116 but Doctor Brady was successful with the Ice water bag treatment again. Way to go Doc. And most importantly THANK YOU GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Our little prince has had a couple of tough days as he is trying to get back into his routine and his is sore from the multiple unsuccesful attempt at getting an IV in him. Finaly a nurse from the PICU was brought in (Maurice) and was able to thread the needle. He was then Brody's nurse for the remainder of the morning. Then Deedee got to bring him home after noon. I had to leave the Hospital at 5am to go to Germantown maryland that morning. So after 8 hours on the road I to am just about wiped out. Thanks to the entire staff at WVU hospitals who worked so wonderfully on Brody and all our friends and Family for the prayers and again.

THANK YOU GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Short but Sweet

I will give you the short version tonight and update more tomorrow (and I haven't forgotten that I still owe you a blog about our most important things).

Wednesday was busy with taking Brody to the doc. He saw many peps and had a good day. He weighed 17lb 15oz still but was 26 3/4" long. His docs are all very proud of his progress.

Then...........the rest of the story.

Early this morning he went into SVT again. We were at the ER by 1:30am. In a room by 3:30am. And home by 1pm. Brody is doing just fine now. I will update tomorrow with all of the details, I am still sleepy from the long night. And I promise new pics tomorrow too.

Day Five of The Importance Challenge

In our make-believe world this is day five. Today we have only one piece of paper that symbolizes the most important/precious person, place, or thing in your life. This is the question I ask you of this last piece of paper. If tragedy struck your life yet one more time, could this be taken away? If your answer is yes then it's not THE right answer. I say this because I know I have one thing in my life that nothing can ever take from me and that is Christ. It is late tonight and I have so much to say about this but I will have to ask you to check back tomorrow to read my thoughts. And I pray for all that read that you make Christ number one in your life, I couldn't make through each day any other way.

Day Three and Four of the Importance Challenge

As life sometimes happens tragedy has struck twice in our make-believe world. Since yesterday got away from me and I didn't post, today we will take two days in one so now instead of having two of our most precious person, places, or things we only have one left. So tear up two pieces of paper and toss them, they are no longer in your life. See ya tomorrow to find out what happens with our most important piece of paper.

Day Two of the Importance Challenge

Today instead of having five of the most important people, places, things in your life you only have four. Once again tragedy has struck our make-believe worlds and one more of these pieces of paper is eliminated but at least you get to choose which one. So tear-up another and lets see what happens tomorrow with our last three.

Day One of The Importance Challenge

Yesterday I asked you to write your most 5 precious people, places, or things in your life on five different pieces of paper. If you didn't, please do so right now before reading further. The rest of us will hum the theme to Jeopardy and wait for you. da da da da da da da da da dum dadum dum dum dum. Ok, ready?

Unfortunately as life sometimes goes tragedy has struck and one of your 5 has been taken from you. In make-believe you get to choose which one. Therefore, throw one of your pieces away. And tomorrow we will start the day with four.

Oh and you're welcome that you all will be humming the theme to Jeopardy all day, hehehehe. It's so fun being me, LOL.

Baby Christian is up to 5lb 12oz. He is still learning to eat but he is getting it and should be home soon. Jill and Jimmy are getting weary of waiting, they want him home so badly. Oh how we know that feeling. If you will take the time I also ask that you pray for Sandra Saurborn. She is one of the sweetest Christian gals to serve on this earth and she has lost her dear sweet husband, Ken. They were a couple that exuded not only romantic love but Christian love as well and I tear-up every time I think of her having to say goodbye to him. She is doing well because she is so grounded in Our Father but she could use an extra measure of His love, peace, and comfort right now. Thank you.

Brody has been sticking out his tongue all day like he is trying to touch his nose. This week he has been making "car" sounds, blowing bubbles, and such but today....sticking out his tongue. And tonight while putting himself to sleep in the twilight of his rain forest he was examining his hands - like the dim light made them more interesting somehow. He also has the baby bird reflex this week (at least that's what I call it). He sees his bottle and his mouth opens. He still thinks Daddy is the most interesting thing on this earth. Huh, me too (that's how Brody got here, LOL)!

Time for a Change

Since Brody's arrival some things changed instantly (like spending every available moment at the NICU) and some things are changing over time (like figuring our car situation). Priorities haven't changed because family has always been number one to me and Brent, but outlooks definitely have.

I am a car chick, I sorta had to be in my family to survive. Saturday night in the Walker household was spent at Eldora Dragway watching my brothers race their Sunkist Camaro. And Friday was spent carrying bologna sandwiches and iced tea to the legs sticking out from under the car in the driveway getting it ready for Saturday. I loved playing hostess to my brothers and their friends. I love cars, I love the smell of burning rubber, I love glasspack pipes and horse power. This is one of the things that caused Brent to fall in love with me, being a car guy himself it didn't take long for him to join the Walker Bros. Racing Team. Cars = Fun.

During our 13 1/2 years of marriage we have owned many different cars, we enjoy change. Then three years ago when the new body style of Mustang was presented I fell in love, I can tell you exactly where I was when I saw The Legend Lime 2005 Mustang. (At a shopping center in Michigan, I was more interested in the car than the shops - it was sooooooooooo awesome). Brent wanted to buy me that car. Always holding on to my Brody-Dream I said, "What if we get a baby?" (I said "get" because I was waiting for God to drop him on the door step I never thought after all this time I'd have him) Brent said, "We'll take care of it then." Well...then is now, lol. I naively thought that I could get Brody in and out of the back seat and his car seat. Hahahahahaha. Especially not now since he weighed 17lb 15oz yesterday at the docs and is nearly 26" long. I believe it is time to say goodbye to Sally (that's the Mustang's name, I always name all of my cars). I have had much fun zooming (sorry Officer Gidley) down the highway. Driving her is exhilarating but loving Brody is beyond words. Some changes are hard to make and others are no-brainers.

So what's important to you? Do me a favor? Take five pieces of note paper, on each write one thing that holds great importance to you. Make them be the 5 most important people, places, or things in your life. Then "tune-in" tomorrow to share in a mental exercise with me but write down your five things today.

As far as Master Brody......he had his last cynagis shot yesterday until fall rolls around again. He is doing very well and our pediatrician is pleased with his development. We see the neonatologist next week. We are going out and about more - so you may see us soon. I am a home-body so staying home since Dec has not been a sacrifice for me but I am anxious for Brody to meet the world. He sleeps through the night most of the time, an occasional 2am-3am feeding here and there. He loves to roll from his back to belly and he lifts his head and looks around. He loves bath time, books, and music (he and Daddy sing and dance while Mommy giggles). He still loves his chair although he barely fits anymore, lol. He is cooing, laughing, and talking more each day. He sucks his thumb when he is really tired and doesn't care for a pacifier but he has his fingers and fist in his mouth almost all the time he is awake. He loves Daddy soooooooo much. When Brent comes home and Brody hears his voice he almost turns his head all the way around to find Daddy. He will watch Brent talk (just in conversation not to Brody) and squeal and laugh. And last week I was talking to my mom on the phone and I had it on speaker, Brody was looking at the phone and smiling yet had a confused look on his face. I know he was thinking, "How did Grammy get in that phone?" So we think he is gonna be extra smart too, lol.

March for Babies

Christian is still needing our prayers (as well as Jimmy and Jill). Christian also has bad reflux and isn't wanting to eat. They are doing some testing to make sure it's not another issue and reflux is just a symptom of something else. This is a trying time. Jill and Jimmy want him home so badly. Please pray for the three of them.

Brody is perfect. So cute and so sweet. He slept for the first time last night in his room. He did well and so did Mommy and Daddy. He is literally on the other side of the wall of our room but it still seemed so far away, even with the video monitor. He has been sleeping in our room in his pack & play. I think he liked having more room to move around in his bed and the softer mattress. He slept from 10pm to 6:30am.

Chris Byrne is the advisor for the FBLA group at Fairmont Senior High and also the sister of a dear friends of ours. Her FBLA kids have committed to walking in the March for Babies walk to benefit the March of Dimes in honor of Brody. Several are walking this Saturday in Morgantown and others on May 4th in Clarksburg. These kids have raised $250. Brent, Brody, and I will be going to the walk in Clarksburg at the VA park at 1:30 on the 4th. We may walk some but we will definitely cheer on our "team". If you are interested in supporting us you may mail me a check before Monday April 28th or you can come to the park and walk with us. But mostly please pray thanking God for these awesome kids and on the 19th and the 4th pray for all babies in every NICU everywhere. Thank you for your support. Our address is 3648 Smithtown Road Morgantown WV 26508

Tess Wolford was a premie herself and she attends church with Jill & Jimmy and she will be walking in honor of Christian this Saturday in Morgantown.

God is Love

Time got away from me last week so sorry no news from me.

First of all Christian is competing with Brody in the reflux department. He is doing well except for that. He will be having some testing this week to determine that it is just reflux and no other problems. Please pray that they get it under control soon. When they do he will eat better then he can come home, which Jill and Jimmy are anxiously awaiting. We know that feeling all too well.

Brent says Brody is like a polarized magnet when you lay him on his back - flip - over he goes. Which is so funny because he really doesn't like his belly. He has yet to figure out how to roll from belly to back but he'll get it soon. Other than flipping so quickly he isn't doing anything new this week.

The reason my week got away was because Brent's grandma passed away. She was 88 years old and had a healthy life except for the past 6-7 months. She was a strong christian and we all know she went home. I like what Brent's Uncle Bill said, "She graduated to Jesus." That's a cool outlook.

Brent went to visit Grandma Ginny about a month ago. Grandma's roommate in the nursing home in Parkersburg has Alzheimer's but she told Brent's aunt later that day that a man was there to see Grandma. Aunt Naomi knew Brent had been there so she, "Yes a man was here." Then the roommate said, "Yes he was here and there was love." With tears in her eyes Aunt Naomi told us that story. I was so proud of my guy. He told me how Grandma complained that her neck hurt while he was there and he rubbed her neck and he wished he could have done more for her. He was sad that he she was failing so. But knowing now that it was evident that he loved her made that last memory even more treasured.

Grandma Ginny saw a banquet table filled with every food imaginable upon her entrance into heaven, she described it to her daughter, Naomi. During the funeral Brent spoke about how his Grandma was not one to be physically affectionate but if she had made you cokie and toast, corn bread and coffee, or apple sauce pie you had Grandma's love. I think when she was entering heaven she saw that table because she saw love. Growing up in a family of 17, as one of the oldest Grandma was always preparing food for loved ones and she continued to do the same for her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Not ever having much, choosing to purchase food over her own needs happened more than once I'm sure. There was love.

This scenario has given me a myriad of thoughts. How do I show my love, is it sacrificial? What will I see when I get to heaven? We had a dear friend, Mary Morris, that sang a hymn while entering Heaven. Mary obviously had a passion for music and praising God. Where Grandma had a passion for taking care of her family and honoring God so when she got to heaven He was returning all this to her.

My last thought is how do we treat our others when we think only an old Alzheimer's lady is observing. Do we show love? Is it obvious? I can only hope that when I leave a room I receive the same compliment, "There was love." No matter who we encounter we should be reflections of Christ and show love just as He did.

Lovin on the Edge

Ok, showing my age...But do you remember the Aerosmith Song "Livin on the Edge"? Well it's been in my brain for several days now (who knows why I haven't heard it for years). But instead of the word Livin my brain has been saying Lovin (it's a scary place, my brain). I think the Lovin is a God prompt to write this. So I obediently follow - 3 days later :(

I have been lovin Brody on the edge since he was conceived. Are you that brave? I didn't know I was till now. I was so afraid to invest in my pregnancy with Brody. Having 4 miscarriages you can understand why. Then when he came I was scared everyday would be the last. I had a prayer several years ago. I prayed that God would allow me to just hold one of my children, if he would please just let me look into the eyes of my child. When Brody came so early and then on day 2 came so close to death, then I watched him turn blue more times than I want to count. I thought I was going to have my prayer answered and only my prayer, that I was not going to raise my son, mother my son, love him all my days. But I still loved.

Everyday I would pray gratitude for that day. For instance, "If it ends today at least I got to see my baby on an ultrasound." "If it ends today at least I know it's a boy." "If it ends today at least I got to feel my child move inside of me." "If it ends today at least I got to look into his eyes." "If it ends today at least I got to hold him." I wanted him so badly and for so long that I would take him for as long or as little as God could give him to me. I was loving on the edge. I saw several babies in the NICU without visitors. Some had circumstances that left them unable to come only on weekends, some had health problems of their own. But I met one mother who said she just couldn't take it. Wow, I couldn't take not being there ( I got into so much "trouble" early on when I was supposed to be home healing). But she hadn't been taught to love at all costs. Brent and I have parents that love at all times. So doing that for Brody came natural. The baby of the mother that couldn't take it passed away, I think of that young mother often and pray for her healing.

Being there beside Brody's isolette was for his benefit as much as mine. There have been studies that babies with active parents heal more quickly and grow much faster (Brody should be the poster child for growing fast, lol). Also we would watch Brody's monitors. His breathing would be much smoother and saturation levels higher when we talked, sang, and read to him. He knew he belonged to us.

I do not say my "If it ends today"...prayers any longer but I do have several weepy moments a week where my blessing overwhelms me. When Brent is holding Brody, or the first time Brody took a nap in his room (I just couldn't believe I had a baby room with a baby in it), or when he's asleep in my arms, etc........... God is so good to me he answered my prayers in excess. No prayer is too little for God and no prayer is too big. So I'll keep living Lovin on the Edge.

Brody loves to make silly sounds and giggle this week. He still rolls from his back to his belly but not reverse. He doesn't like to play on his belly much but we encourage him to do it to build his upper body strength. He loves to stand on our laps. And most of the time he hates to recline, he takes his elbows and pushes them back so he can sit up straight. He is holding his head up really well this week. And I pray it's a God intervention, but his reflux seems better this week, alleluia. Not nearly as much spit up. I pray pray pray it's so. He can reach his lion on his jungle gym and pull to make it play the songs. He kicks his right leg more than his left so he is always doing 180's wherever he lays. He can also wake up from his nap and roll on his side and turn on his rain forest, too funny. He is very good at entertaining himself . He doesn't cry when he awakens he just plays in his crib and starts talking (shock shock mine and Brent's child wakes up talking). He is an angel.

Pep Talk

Brody's appointment went well on Thursday. He weighed...are you ready for this?..... 16lb 2oz. Wow, he has grown fast. He received 3 shots and cried a lot, poor Angel. He has started something new this week...he is getting really attached to Mommy and Daddy. We went to my parent's for Poppy Pancakes for lunch today and Brent and I were in the dining room and he cried without us. Poppy Pancakes are pancakes that my Daddy makes. Poppy is what all the grandchildren call my Daddy, so probably once a month he makes a breakfast smorgasbord and we all go over after church. Master Brody was just taking in all the sounds and sights. Looking at each person then hopping to the next. He really stared at my nephew Andrew, we think because he has hair, lol. Neither Brody, his daddy, or either of my brothers do. Boys with hair was a new sight for Brody. Well that way he can see how he'll look at every stage of life.

Saturday we went to Game Day on the MileGround to get a free football autographed by 3 football players. OK, we all know I am NOT a sports girl so...a guy named Mike, one named Adam, and another Grant. Nice guys to give up their afternoon for WVU Children's Hospital kids. Of course Bro couldn't go with us but we took his pictures. And proceeds that day went to the WVU Children's Miracle Network, so we helped the cause. Brent and I both bought new sweatshirts and some bibs for Bro. They've invited us to some Blue/Gold Game (or something like that) in the near future also. Brody can't get out yet and he is getting just the busiest calendar. Soon enough he can go everywhere with us.

Today one of mine and Brent's favorite teachers, Ed Young, was talking about "Entering the Door of Negativity". Ed is on USA at Sunday 8am if you ever want to hear some sound teaching. It has had me thinking. You probably have noted over the past 6 months that I am most days a pretty positive person. Ed was speaking of choosing the Door of Negativity today. Which indicated two things to me today; 1) Being negative is a choice. 2) Being negative is a temptation for some (I never thought of that before). I know lots of peps read this that have never met me but I have to say that life has given me several reasons to be negative. There have been times in my life when I have given into that temptation to be negative. But with the Power of Christ I clung to the Promise of Abundant Life and fasted my negativity. I have even rid my daily life of negative people.

Think of those you know that never have a positive word. Do others want to be around them? Do they make good leaders? Do they have effective relationships? We are charged to lead others to Christ, how can that be accomplished with a negative attitude? And negativity seems to be contagious (especially at work, church, or school).

The thought of Abundant Life used to overwhelm me. I didn't want an Abundant Life because I was afraid if I had an Abundant Life it would be taken away. Then God spoke to my heart, "Child you already have an Abundant Life." Wow!!! I did and I had it every day, yet I was negative because I kept waiting for something....I already had it all and I wasn't enjoying it because I was living in the past and wishing for the future. Do you want to take steps today to rid negativity?

1) Get rid of your big BUT - Negative people use but to justify their negativity. " I know I shouldn't say this BUT......"

2) Don't live in the past. - We can't change it, we can only accept it and move on, so do it.

3) Count your blessings - It's hard to be negative when you appreciate your life.

Philippians 2:5 (NIV)
"Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus."

Celebrity Status

Trying to help Mommy hold his bottle.

Well watch the TV closely because "Our" commercial has started. It starts with showing the front of Ruby then shows Nurse Tara handing Brody to me. The it interviews Tara and some other health care professionals then ends with Brody. And his pic was in The Dominion Post this past weekend. Also I have heard that there is a bulletin board in Star City. I was so excited when I saw the commercial all I could utter over and over was "Brody - TV, Brody - TV". I was in tears to see my baby on TV. He was very little still then and so sweet.

He loved his bath today, cooing, laughing, kicking and splashing. He is the sweetest guy. He went for another walk today and enjoyed the sunshine. And the other night we gave him some peas. Dr Lynch said to try it a couple times a week so he can get used to the texture and the spoon. He was sooooo funny; he kept sticking out his tongue, then kinda rolled the peas around in his mouth, then shut his mouth and out they came, lol. I don't think he swallowed any. I guess that's why we practice before we move to solids. At least he didn't make any icky faces.

Baby Christian is doing well still having problems learning the "suck-swallow-breath" technique but he'll get it and he's g-r-o-w-i-n-g, 4lb 13oz. Prayers are working. Thank you.

New Loves

My Baby Prince Charming Asleep

I just thought I should take a few moments to tell you about Brody's new loves.

One is his Glow Worm or Light Bright (I forget her name). But he will lay looking at her and touching her face for almost an hour. She plays music when you squeeze her tummy and he has hit her so hard he makes her sing. Brent and I were amazed when he did it. He will lay looking at her, touching her face, and talking to her. It is sooooo adorable. My dear friend, Deanna, got it for him and I laugh because Deanna was an incurable match-maker when I was in school. She finally made a match in my family.

Master Brody's other new love is his thumb. He has found it only a couple times before the end of last week but now....he loves it. I was really pushing the binky cause I can't take away his thumb :( Binky is out, the thumb won.

Brody's First Easter

We had a good day celebrating the Resurrection of our Lord. It is late and I am ready for bed. So I will leave with you pictures of Brody in his Easter outfit. In case you can't see the detail...it is green with little chicks. And a pic of him in his snowsuit with the teddy bear ears, although today we told him he looked like a bunny.

Christian is doing so well; off of all oxygen, doing some bottle feeding, dressed and bundled. He's an amazing little fighter too. Thank you for your prayers.

Happy Birthday

Even though it is now Wednesday the 19th (it's 2am I just fed Baby Bro and he's back to bed). I still wanted to acknowledge Master Brody's Birthday. 6 Months. Can you believe it? I hardly can. We went to see Dr Lynch today and he weighed 15lb 2.5oz, and to think at one time he weighed 2.5lbs. Dr Lynch is very pleased with him. We are still on 2 meds but are off everything else. No oxygen, no monitors.....it's so fun to carry him around the house now, without dragging all his extras, yeah!!!!!!

Brent is better, but since Brody was exposed to the flu and it is such a bad season for it he did get a flu shot (you have to be 6 mos to get it) and he got his Cynagis. The 1st shot (the flu) he didn't even pout but the 2nd :( he cried and cried. It's almost comforting to know he can though (because seriously he never cries - he is just the best little baby ever - Brent says I'm bias. The nurse at the Doc's office today said he was spoiled just because when we put him in a gown I put his puppy slippers on his feet so they wouldn't get cold and wrapped his legs in his puppy blanket, matching is not spoiled- it's fashion conscious).

I almost couldn't go to sleep Sunday night because I had "Talkers Remorse". My poor cousin Patty (so sorry Patty - I just haven't been out like that since December - you should have sat me by Crystal, lol - prolly why Mom sat by her and me by you), I talked her ear off at Baby Christian's Shower. Wow, I didn't realize how starved I was to be out and to hang with the girls. If Brody talks as much as Brent and I do, whew.... I just don't want to think about it, lol. Christian (or CJ maybe, Jill and Jimmy are trying it out) is doing well, he's back in the NICU, he is extubated and doing well. Maybe I'll talk to Jill tomorrow and see if they have started him on feeds again yet. I pray-pray-pray that this heart repair helps his belly digest and now he thrives.

If "Talkers Remorse" kept me awake can you imagine the remorse Judas felt after he sold-out Jesus? Unimaginable!!! Satan uses remorse/guilt to manipulate us into being unproductive. Judas' remorse made him commit suicide, you can't be any more unproductive then dead. Once we have asked for forgiveness, God grants it, it's over. I have known people in my walk who believe that they can't be workers for the Lord because of their past, I have known people that are so concerned about what others think of them because they haven't forgiven themselves, I have known people that don't get close to others because they think they will be judged because they haven't accepted forgiveness, and others who can't give forgiveness until they ask for forgiveness. All of this faulty thinking (to steal from Marilyn Meberg) creates unproductive people. And Satan rejoices. I hate Satan!!! I never want to give him reason to rejoice at my life. If he can't tempt us with lust, greed, addiction, etc...he will be very subtle. So laugh at Satan and be productive today---tell one person how much fun you had at church on Sunday, or invite a co-worker to a Bible Study, tell the check-out girl at the grocery "God Bless You", share a story about a miracle at lunch, tell someone about Brody and explain without prayer he wouldn't have made it; just be productive for Christ today. If we all do it we'd give Satan a crappy day----then we can laugh.

The Waiting Game

Baby Christian's surgery went well. Long time waiting.....I don't know how Jimmy and Jill didn't lose it. But they kept calm, I'm not sure I would have been able to do the same. Christian was taken at 10:45 for surgery. We knew it would take an hour to prep him and we saw Dr Gus walk down the hallway around noon and it is a 17 minute surgery, then close and recovery. We thought we would hear something from one of the PA's by 12:30. Well at 4:00 they came and told us Christian was in recovery and would be back up to a room in the PICU in about 30 minutes. Talk about being left in the dark. I so wish we were better informed. It was longer because they couldn't do the surgery like they wanted because something (aorta, artery, flap?) was too small and they had to use a piece of Gortex to fix his narrowing Aorta. When we left the hospital Jill and Jimmy were anxiously awaiting to see him. I pray he recovers quickly.

As for that cutie that lives with me.....Brody I mean. He is as usual an angel. He played today with his Aunt Chele while Brent ran to the office, and my mom and I went to the hospital. Now Aunt Chele is "in-love". He steals your heart instantly...so watch out for the middle of next month when we get out and about. You have been fairly warned to guard your heart. He is spitting up a lot lately but I guess that's just Brody. He is never fussy so I can do tons of laundry compared to him hurting. And for the other cutie that lives with me (grrrr, Kara) please remember Brent in your prayers he is still fighting a viral respiratory infection, he feels awful, he wants to love on us but he is so afraid he is gonna give it to me and Bro. It's so sad. Plus we do need that out of our home before we share it.

Waiting today made me think of when Christ was praying in the garden of Gethsemane because he knew he was going to his torture and death. He asked the disciples to pray for him for a single hour while he went into the garden and prayed alone. When he returned all were asleep. Why is that story in the Bible? Is it to show us that even today we can't wait one hour while Christ goes to the Father, even on our behalf for an answer, we plunge ahead without waiting for a response? Is it to show us that the disciples were human, it was late and they were sleepy? Or to show us that Christ gave up everything for us and we usually, in our busy lives, can't find an hour for him. Maybe to illustrate that this was a burden Christ had to bear alone. I'm not sure but I know it wasn't there by accident. God wants us to learn from that account. Today several family members gave their day to Christian (understandably and expectantly so) but tomorrow will I make time for Christ? Being on this ride since Sept 18th, I have to admit studying, serving, meditating, and praying (for anything/anyone other than Brody) has been out of my mind and heart. Today I was reminded while we sat and prayed Christ was still there waiting for us not just for an hour but for as long as it takes. Tomorrow.....will I return the favor? I'm sure gonna give it my best effort.

Pray-Pray-Pray

Another picture of cute Baby Christian.

Baby Christian's surgery is tomorrow at 10am. He needs all of everyone's prayers. I understand more tonight than last night about his condition. He has a narrowing of his Aorta. This causes blood to "back-up" in his heart. It may be what was causing his collapsed lungs because when the blood is backed-up in the heart too much blood can stay in the lungs. It also is most likely causing his digestive issues because there is not enough blood going into his belly to make everything run correctly. To fix this problem they will cut and remove the narrowed area and sew the Aorta back together. Master Christian only weighs 3lb 10oz, and although they would love for him to be bigger to do this surgery; it is a catch 22, how can he get bigger if he isn't digesting well?, so the surgery is necessary. He Bro's cuz, so strength (or is it stubbornness) runs in the family, Dr Gus is one of the best Pediatric Cardiac Surgeons on the East Coast, and prayer works. I will blog tomorrow and let you know how remarkable he did during surgery. Thank you for loving him too.

Brody is good today...no changes...just eating, pooping, sleeping, cooing, smiling, and snuggling. Say a prayer for Brent too, this virus cough is trying to kick his butt and he is working so hard to make sure he doesn't share with me & Bro.

Prayers for Christian

Sleeping with Daddy after a hard day's work

Baby Christian is going to have heart surgery either tomorrow or Friday. He has a narrowing of the main artery to the heart. Since I didn't talk to the docs, I don't understand it a lot. I do know that it can be called co-arc and the surgery should help Christian's other health issues. Christian's Dr is the same Dr Phillips that we love and he is confident that this is a pretty uncomplicated surgery but scary for Jill and Jimmy nonetheless. And I totally understand why. Christian is still less than 4lbs and he has had both lungs collapse during his first two weeks. So please keep him in your thoughts and prayers. I will keep you updated.

As for Bro-------his rash is completely gone and he had a wonderful day. We got dressed and went for a drive in the sunshine (and to let Brent have quiet for a nap - he's still under the weather). Brody had a bath today which he tolerated. Only once has he cried during his bath. And sometimes he loves it and kicks and splashes but today he was indifferent. He had 5 5oz bottles and took his medicine like a champ. I have this cool little thing my cousin's wife got us that is a medicine dispenser with a nipple. Well when Bro came home he couldn't use it because the med would choke him and he would desat and brady so I would have to shoot his med very slowly into the corner of his mouth. But in the last few days he sucks it right down out of the little dispenser thingy (yes, that's the technical name). He even slept from 11pm to 7am. Our other Dr appointment for tomorrow was rescheduled to Tuesday (due to insurance coverage for Brody's Cynagis shot). He is such a good baby boy. I still can't believe he's mine. God's goodness is overwhelming.

Flying

Baby Bro played himself to sleep on his beloved Jungle Gym.

Master Brody went to the cardiologist yesterday. We stopped by the NICU to see our friends and to meet Cuz Christian. Both boys were adorable. Christian was just hanging out in his warm isolette, looking as cute as ever. He is doing well...still a wee moment on the roller-coaster.

Master Brody was adorable because he "performed" for all his nurses. He talked, cooed, laughed, and smiled at all his pretty nurses and NICU staff (and Rus too - Rus isn't so pretty, but we still love him). I really think he remembered them, he seemed sooooo excited to be there. In spite that he had a rash and hives all over his body. Our pediatrician, Wonderful Susie, thinks it was the last of that virus we had just saying goodbye. Today he is much better. But me and Brent on the other hand...not so good. I have a sore throat and Brent has a cough, sore throat, congested, ick. So please pray we don't give it to Baby Bro.

The cardiologist said Bro's EKG looked good and we don't go back for 3 months. Dr. Phillips will keep an eye on Brody's conditions and we will pray they remedy themselves.

Tonight as I think about all of the things Brody has over-come (and Christian, and Wyatt, and Addy, and Charlie, every preemie we have met), I leave you with one of my favorite verses, Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Are these little miracles not a breathing testimony to that? God strengthens them every day and every day they accomplish much. So today when adversity hits you...muster the strength of a preemie.....remember Jesus died for you....and succeed, just like the bumble bee. He flies because God told him to, his wings are too little to support his big body but he flies because Christ strengthened him too.

Baby Christian

This is my cousin's baby he was born at 30wks 5 days. My cousin's name is Jill and her hubby is Jimmy. Their new bundle of joy is Christian. Christian is 2 weeks old today, and has had quite a ride on the NICU Roller-Coaster. He was born weighing 3lb 6oz and dropped to 3lb 2oz and is back up to birth weight as of last night. He was born crying "Hello World" and did not have to be on a vent, then his lung collapsed and he had to be intubated. He was on billi loghts for a while but is off of those now. And he healed enough from the collapsed ling that he was extubated, and on the C-PAP (now you remember the C-PAP - these should all be familiar for you NICU veterans), and quickly he went to a nasal canula (not ka-nula Kerri). Unfortunately last night his other lung collapsed (not a common occurrence - just like Bro's hemorrhage - can you tell they are related?) So back on the vent he went and off of his feedings, he was up to 8-9cc every 3 hours. He is doing well today in spite of his "thrill" last night. But please pray for him and for Jill and Jimmy....from keeping up with us you know what a ride they have in store for them, poor Jill didn't sleep a wink last night. I asked Jill and she said I could share information with Brody's fan base (lol). Jimmy has started a page for Christian at http://www.caringbridge.org/ then type in christianjamesmiller in the Visit a Caring Bridge Website box. Thank you for being so good to us and now so good to Jill, Jimmy, and Christian.

Oops...almost forgot to tell you, Baby Bro is wonderful. If you don't believe me ask Grammy or Grandma. He is so cute and so sweet. He is getting so big that he keeps pulling his lead wires out of his electrodes on his AB Monitor. A sign to me that he is saying, "Mommy, I'm done with this machine." Just like he did with his vent tube and canula. God's goodness is evident every day in the Wilmoth home.

New Adventure

Yes, he has socks on his hands, they were cold...

Well...wasn't today beautiful? 74* I couldn't wait to take Brody on his first walk. I secured him in his stroller and off we went (me, my mom, Maddy, and Baby Bro). We all soaked in the sun's vitamins. Brody seemed intrigued, just wide-eyed, taking it all in; he did smile a few times. I told him wait till he's a little bigger, we'll go to the park across the road and he can swing in the airplane swing. What an awaited event for this summer.


This week is a down week for Master Brody but next week...we go to the cardiologist on Monday and the neonatologist on Thursday. I pray we master the germs better this time, last time we went to the doc I contacted a stomach virus and then gave it to Bro. I will be even more diligent about using my antibacterial gel. Thank you to so many who are anxious to visit understanding how sensitive Brody's lungs still are and that we have to be sooooo careful about keeping him healthy until his lungs heal a little more and get stronger. Thanks to dear family who visit through the front window (yes we really do that, ask Craig or Michele). I know many want to meet him and I appreciate your patience and understanding.


No updates on our friends tonight except Baby Waylon did not get to go home over the weekend and Baby Christian had to be intubated. That was from Friday so I don't know what's happened since. I'll update you when I know.

Milestones

This is a picture of the ladybug that lived in the first high-care room we inhabited in the NICU. I ask tonight for prayers for my cousin Jill's baby, Christian James Miller. I don't know if he is in the ladybug room yet or where but he is in the NICU. He was born 9 weeks early. He is doing well right now but we know the roller-coaster ride they have awaiting them, so please keep Jill, her husband Jimmy, and mostly Christian in your prayers.

Brody is doing so many great things.....not only the normal baby things, smiling, cooing, and (today) laughing but he is sleeping at night without his slope & swing (daytime naps he still uses his it), he is off of 2 of his medicines (only on his prevacid and his heart med), he has been off of oxygen for over a month, instead of 2 monitors - just one, and he has gotten over his first virus. Brody and I both had a stomach virus last week. I think I picked it up when I took Bro for his pediatrician visit on the 15th, then I gave it to baby Bro. We found out at his appt that he is growing too. He weighs over 13lbs and 23.5" long. We are feeling better but still recovering. That icky thing just zaps you. But Bro kicked-it, he is so amazing.

Keep our friend, Waylon, in your prayers too. He may go home this weekend.

Heart Strings

Ok for the detailed updates on Brody's heart conditions.

SVT - Supraventricular Tachycardia
This fast heart rate involves the upper and lower chambers. It has to do with the electrical system. He has an extra electrical wire that makes his heart beat too fast occasionally. Sunday morning at 4:45 when his AB Monitor alarmed his heart rate went to 300 for a baby his age it should be around 150. The medication he was prescribed lowers his heart rate. 50% of babies "recover" from this condition by age 1. The other 50% will recover by are 3 and the rest will battle it and have to have catheterization as a teenager, some go away and come back. The longer he goes without having another episode is encouraging that he will not have continuing problems. With some research, we have found that he did have an episode once in the NICU.

WPW - Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome
This is related to the SVT, it means that the electrical conduction pathways are larger. This type of SVT sometimes can be undetectable except by EKG.

Coronary Artery Fistula
This means that Brody has an extra channel (artery) between the coronary artery and the pulmonray artery. Also sometimes repaired by a catheterizaon.

These conditions can be serious but don't have to be. We found them early, he is responding well to medication, and the fistula is tiny (a good thing). We will be following up with the pediatric cardiologist, DR. Phillips, and will find out more detail and treatment plan then. But so far so good. God is good all the time, I am so thankful that we found these early.

It wouldn't let me use the picture thingy tonight, sorry. Or the spell check, lol.

Home Again Home Again Jiggity Jig

Alleluia, we are home. Brody is doing well. The medication that the pediatric cardiologist prescribed is working and his heart is no longer racing. I am sure we will have some more testing. As it stands right now he may have 3 different heart conditions, unrelated to being a preemine and unrelated to one another. When I get unpacked tomorrow (after some sleep :) and find all of our information I will share with you. It does appear that all of the conditions can be "outgrown". When the echo-cardiogram gets read and we see the Dr. we will have aven more answers.

I know some of you have been asking for the blog...I am sorry that I haven't given you any information. I saw so many people that asked or called about Brody followed by, "I never go on the blog anymore.", many didn't even know I hadn't been blogging. Then the comments got less and less - I truly assumed no-one was checking it except 3 people. Therefore, the way to keep me finding time to blog I need some encoragement. Even if you comment, "I was here."

Thank you for your love, support, and prayers.

Let's go to the PICU Daddy

For all that have heard from this morning that we had to return Master Brody to the ER this morning, it is true and he has been diagnosed with Supraventricular tachycardia. This is best discribed by me as he over reved his heart tachometor. His heart rate was very fast this morning and we could not get him settled down. We took him to the ER (thanks Susan) and they were able to diagnose and treat him and get him settled down to normal rates. They are keeping him overnight for sure and perhaps Monday night; we will re-eval tomorrow.

This little guy just seems to keep us on our toes. This has nothing to do with his previous conditions and is something he should out grow. Surprisingly common, but serious none the less.

We appreciate all the prayer already and welcome more as we will be spending the night on our knees and welcome all who want to jump in on the line. God has taken such good care of us through all of this that we just have to praise Him in this storm and trust that He is up to something else that will prove to be amazing.

Path Light

We are safely at home but the life at the NICU still goes on. I know tonight our dear friend, Susan Neptune, was on a flight to get yet another sick little baby. Our stay in the NICU was a tough one not only did Master Brody have such a rough start but they had sick babies like never before. Usually WVUH NICU loses 1 -3 babies a year. During our 3 month stay they lost 9 babies. My throat thickens with emotion as I write these words. There wasn't an epidemic of an outlandish disease it was just grievous loss. And when I look back (not actually realizing at the time) of how delicate Brody's situation I get sick. I thank God that I didn't know that with the pulmonary hemorrhage he had only has a 30-40% survival rate. That he lost so much blood and having as many transfusions as he had is not a preemie norm. That he was in such distress during labor and was born with a large hematoma. I learned so much and learned quickly but sometimes being ignorant is bliss.

Sometimes ignorance can kill. Knowing the difference is the key. How does one know this difference? CHRIST. Ask Christ to lead your daily life don't go anywhere without Him. Just as
Psalm 119:105 says "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path." Think of Christ as that lamp too. I do. Think of walking in the dark without a flashlight. What would happen? Fall most likely if outdoors in an unknown territory and indoors we usually hit our toes or trip over things in our path. God wants to be our light, He doesn't want us to walk without Him. And when we do...we falter, fall, and even sometimes get hurt. Just like walking in the woods at night without a flashlight. With light walking is easy especially if you are paying attention, the path is clear, and the light gives you direction even shows you the path ahead. With The Light the future is bright, without The Light the future is unknown and scary. I wouldn't think of walking through my filed in the middle of the night without a flashlight. And I wouldn't dream of walking my daily life with The Light of the World. I hope every time you see a flashlight you think of your walk with God and if you chose to take Him with you everyday. When your'e out in the dark alone remember that the fashligh didn't choose to stay behind, it was forgotten or smuggly we think we don't need it.