Valentine's Day

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave or forsake you." Deuteronomy 3:16 NIV

Thanks everyone for the warm wishes left under the comments section! We have received all your messages, but unfortunately do not have a way to respond to you individually as we are only given the name of the person leaving the comment. Anyways, it is really appreciated...I look forward to the messages as it is one of my only links to the "outside world"!

We had a SLIGHT set-back today. I have been on 2 different intravenous antibiotics 4 times a day, however, the last day or so my veins have become very irritated. I was more than willing to tolerate the pain for the sake of the baby, but this afternoon my arm became quite swollen and the doctor discontinued the use of IV drugs...apparently with my veins so irritated the medicine was seeping into my tissue instead of the blood stream. They have switched me to oral medicine and the doctors say this should be sufficient for now.

The only other new news today is that I started physical therapy to help my muscles adjust to not being used. An added bonus of physical therapy is that it also includes a massage. After being on my back for an extended period - a massage was wonderful!!!

We realized my water had broke about 2 hours before Madison and Joe's flight was scheduled to depart last Thursday. At first we could not fathom Madison flying home by herself, but she was so mature and encouraged Joe and I. She very wisely told us that if something happened to the baby, it was more imporatant that Joe be here to have a chance to hold Kyle. On a lighter note, today while on the phone Madison and I were talking about things she can do at the hospital when she comes to visit. I mentioned that my bed was cool with a remote to move the bed UP/DOWN, etc. and she could lay on it with me. Her response was "No way, that's gross!" I asked her why that would be gross and she said said because I have a "bowl full of poop" taped to my butt! After the cathetar was removed, I "graduated" to using a bed pan and in her mind, it meant they just keep a bowl taped to my bottom. At 7 she can be so mature and wise sometimes, while other times I am reminded that she is only seven.

Today, in light of Valentine's Day, I am reminded of our Heavenly Father's love. He loves us unconditionally. He loves us in spite of our short comings and our sins. His love surpasses all that we can understand. In that while we were still sinners and in need, He sent His only Son to die for us. What a tremendous display of love for us! I thank God for His love.

Happy Valentine's Day to everyone!!!

Much Love,

Joe, Jennifer and Madison