The First (Minor) Setback

Hey everyone. This is Monica, and I just want to say in advance that I do not have my journal with me, so this might be the most raw blog you will ever read from me. =)

Many of you know that the last week has been a dream as far as the twins are concerned. They have eaten relatively well, never developed any sleep apnea, and never even developed very severe jaundice. We have been shocked and overwhelmed by how well our little preemies have adjusted to life. Nonetheless, we were shocked to get a phone call on Friday telling us that the boys would be coming home Sunday (today). We were far from prepared for them to come home. With all of my hospitalization and uncertainties, a baby shower never happened, and we didn't expect them to be home so soon so we hadn't done any of the shopping we needed to do. So, my mom took care of Cade on Friday; I missed the Egg Bowl for the first time in years; and Austin and I spent all day shopping and trying to organize. I was exhausted beyond belief, but everything seemed set for the boys to come home. Overnight Friday, however, David lost weight. Long story short, they didn't eat enough throughout Saturday, and even though he has regained his weight, the doctors do not want to send them home until they have a solid 24 hours of better eating.

When we first found that out his morning, I was devastated. I had just gotten so excited about them coming home and me finally getting some rest with them at home. However, the plan the doctors have for today is really good, and we are confident they will be discharged tomorrow. Despite the disappointment of this morning, as I type I am brought to tears by God's goodness. I am talking about two babies that almost came 2 months ago. We have seen babies in the NICU that are that premature, and it is overwhelming to know that God answered all of your prayers so that our children are not in that position. Even for 33 weekers, they are healthy. Their lungs and hearts are strong, and their bodies even had the strength to fight off the jaundice and keep it from getting to high. They've never even had a severe apnea episode, which is a miracle all on its own.

What I'm trying to say is that we've had a really hard time. During my bedrest and hospitalization I even had a hard time reading Scripture or having alone times with the Lord. I've been scared and stressed and in pain for longer than I knew was humanly possible. But here we are. I'm healthy, our boys are healthy, and it's all because of specific answers to prayers. I may not have had the easiest time spiritually, but I never felt abandoned by God. Our situation has been really tough, but it has not been the worst it could have been. And for the first time in a long time, I have seen God's overwhelming answer to prayer in my own life. In fact, He has proven that He has the power to do even more than I think to ask. He has taught about His love for me; He has taught me about walking with Him through pain and fear; and, as icing on the cake, He has given me the most precious children and the most wonderful husband.

Thanks to everyone for your prayers. I believe that each of you has played a vital role in the lives our little boys, and I am so grateful for you faithfulness to us and to the Lord.