Mon. 4/28 - update

Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But REJOICE that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.
(1 Peter 4:12-13)

Today began with lots of pain! He woke up this morning to it, and has continued throughout the day. We are not sure what the cause is...possibly his body over did it yesterday (the most walking, etc...he has done in 2 mos.) and he is just sore, or because of all the activity his gut is starting to "move" more, or.......? We have no idea. They did increase his feedings to 14 last night. We don't think that is the cause, but we just don't know. The pain got so bad and we had exhausted our "list" of meds he could have, so one of the NP's prescribed some Demoral. We didn't think he would even be able to use his time-away pass today because of the pain. However, he wanted to go SO badly. We knew we could play it by ear and come back to the hospital if it got unbearable. He did good today however. We came back out to Idalou. He fed the fish again, and mainly played with his cousin Xan. They played in the gravel, rode the jeep and the PPV, played down in the basement with musical instruments, played Wii, and watched some movies. A few times he cried out in pain or had to sit/lay to rest awhile. One problem we are having is that when it's time to go back to the hospital, he doesn't want to. I think it will either get easier and he will figure out our daily routine, or harder as we come out each day. But regardless, we are still seeing how beneficial is it for his body and spirit. Please pray that the pain he is experiencing is "good pain." It's hard to see him suffer and our minds always go back to March 1st. (the day this all started and the severe pain he was in) Also pray that the pain will lessen and eventually just BE GONE!! We were so encouraged yesterday and our hearts were overflowing with joy as we watched him be a little boy again. However, today has been very difficult. We made it through and know that there will probably be more days like it to come. We're just trying to look at it as "baby steps." (even though to us they are GIANT!) When we look back at where we were 2 months ago, he truly has made lots of progress! It's just hard when you're living it day by day. (time seems to go so slow)

Todd and Reagan flew in this morning. It was so good to have them back. Caed was very excited when they walked into his room. However, we are now seeing that Todd will only be able to be here with Caed on Mondays and Tuesdays. He will need to be in Celina Wed.-Sun. for the next month. My heart breaks and I can get so frustrated at the feeling of having to do this alone, but I know this is just how it has to be. The Lord has brought us this far, He will not leave us now. This past week with Todd being gone was hard, but not unbearable. (I am ready to crash tonight though!!) I know it was the Lord giving me strength, good night's rests, and providing my parents some extra time to come help out. I do not need to worry about what's to come. God will not put me in a situation without also providing me everything I need.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support. We are taking some big steps toward a FULL RECOVERY, and can't wait for the day we can post "We're finally home!"

playing the keyboard with Grandaddy


Caed wanted to find Zack the kitty so bad!
Nana finally caught him


Xan and Caed going for a cruise


Xan, Caed, and Mommy in the PPV


Xan and Caed playing beautiful music together
(not sure about the beautiful, but it was definitely
loud!)