Romans 12:12

Rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing...in prayer.


What beautiful words I stumbled upon tonight. I do find myself rejoicing in the hope of the progress I see she has made. I am so thankful the verse doesn't ask us to rejoice in the tribulation because I'm pretty sure I would struggle with that, but I am working on being patient during this time. Continuing in prayer. I truly desire to continue in prayer. Its a funny thing with me. Not all fancy words or heads bowed. More like an ongoing conversation with the Father that doesn't seem to have a beginning or an end. Even when things are going well in our lives I am striving to just continue on with Him in prayer.

Its been a long day, but a good day. I miss Dave so much more on the days that he leaves for home. There is just an empty feeling inside without him here with us. Thankfully the Lord sent friends by to keep me company. During our time in Omaha I made some really wonderful friends. Some were transplant families, some nurses, some families of the nurses, and others who just some how stumbled across Ashely's story and reached out to a tired mommy and her baby. How blessed I feel to know each of these. I know without a doubt that our days here were orchestrated and that we were led to this place. Why we are back now? I'm still searching for that, but I am open to the knowledge and possibility that He just isn't finished working in my life and that there are more relationships in store for me here in Nebraska. I'm trying to be willing to be used by Him.

Ash has fallen asleep and even though she wakes with that nasty cough periodically she is able to be soothed back to sleep. My hope is for a nice peaceful rest for both of us tonight. We are sooo tired. Her tummy albeit still quite large is getting softer by the day. Her bowel continues pouring fluids telling us that the infection and rejection continues to work its way through her system. She is putting out between 1500 and 1800 ccs of fluid. Her allowed amount in a 24 hour period is 400ccs. We have a long ways to go, but I am hopeful it will continue to heal and recover. The most beautiful thing that has happened to us today is the function of her kidneys. I am having the privilege of changing big heavy diapers weighing as much as 60mls. What an amazing difference. We were having 24hour periods with only 8-12mls of urine. So scary!

I did not get any pics posted tonight. I am just so very tired, but I promise I will do better sharing with you tomorrow. As always I appreciate each of you so much and I am honored to share our baby gherkin and her story with you. You have become such part of her story and our lives are forever changed because of walking this journey with you. I can't say thank you enough for all you do. I am going to go and lay down for awhile since Ash is resting. Good night my friends and may God bless you and your families. Trish