stopped by to see Laynie for a quick nuzzle (I had 15 min between appts) and Lacey answered the door, holding Smidge straight up, and she was wide awake and just beamed at me. What a beautiful wonderful gift! She loves to be kissed behind the ears (which I can tell you are sticking out just WONDERFULLY), another cute as america thing, and she just smiles and gazes at you.
Lacey just called to tell me she was kissing on her and she actually laughed. LAUGHED! Our girl laughed.
She visited the Lifechurch Edmond group today, and I know that you guys all just love to see her! What a special angel she is, and her Lolly loves her sooooo much -- God is good.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Laynie's Opthamology Visit - Mar 27, 2008
Well, there’s two hours we’ll never get back. After sitting in the dirtiest waiting room in the WORLD (I’m prone to exaggeration, for you all that know me), but seriously, ooh. We actually watched the doctor go room to room, talk on the phone, and do stuff, and NEVER wash his hands. We are sooooo hyper sensitive to this, it was incredibly stupid !
But what we garnered from Dr. Dirty, was that our girl has sight in both eyes. Her parts are get this.... "Small".... REALLY? (Said in my MOST sarcastic tone) and the cloudiness we see on her left eye is a "Corneal Scar". Apparently, right now is a critical time for her brain and her eyes to be working together to develop her sight. So Dr. Dirty said we could do a "Corneal Transplant" with a 60% failure rate. ISn’t he a veritable ray of sunshine? or........ we could dilate her eyes daily, hoping that will help whatever is wrong with them. I looked at him, trying to remain as calm as I could, and told him that he was witnessing a miracle... That the baby that was laying in her mother’s arms was 10 weeks old, a precious gift from God, and that so far.... God’s had her plan. I told him we were doing everything to make her life optimum, but we were NOT going to put her in any distress or pain, any more than necessary for now. Yeah, she’s in casts.... they don’t bother her one bit, and I betcha that she LOVES it when she is bigger to have her feet turned the right way. For now, we will probably go with a second opinion on Laynie’s eyes. We are thrilled to know she has sight, even limited is a gift! So guess what I’m asking for...... time for more prayer.... time for praying for her eyes. Praying for the miraculous healing that we have witnessed over and over with our little girl. She cracked me up.... she can just really tune her pipes when she gets good and ticked. Now that we don’t worry over every little thing she does.... we just really get a kick out of her "mad cry". She can wrinkle up that face, and let out a howl as if to say "WHAT EVER!! Get me my .... milk, lovee, dry diaper, daddy, etc..." Oh my goodness, she is just precious.
Anyway, just a quick update to let you know all is well.....and by the way, Lacey turned in her stuff at work today... she is officially a stay at home Mommy. I know it will be hard for them for awhile, but this time with her baby is sooo precious and it’s time she’ll never get back. So, 10 weeks old, guys, God is Good.
But what we garnered from Dr. Dirty, was that our girl has sight in both eyes. Her parts are get this.... "Small".... REALLY? (Said in my MOST sarcastic tone) and the cloudiness we see on her left eye is a "Corneal Scar". Apparently, right now is a critical time for her brain and her eyes to be working together to develop her sight. So Dr. Dirty said we could do a "Corneal Transplant" with a 60% failure rate. ISn’t he a veritable ray of sunshine? or........ we could dilate her eyes daily, hoping that will help whatever is wrong with them. I looked at him, trying to remain as calm as I could, and told him that he was witnessing a miracle... That the baby that was laying in her mother’s arms was 10 weeks old, a precious gift from God, and that so far.... God’s had her plan. I told him we were doing everything to make her life optimum, but we were NOT going to put her in any distress or pain, any more than necessary for now. Yeah, she’s in casts.... they don’t bother her one bit, and I betcha that she LOVES it when she is bigger to have her feet turned the right way. For now, we will probably go with a second opinion on Laynie’s eyes. We are thrilled to know she has sight, even limited is a gift! So guess what I’m asking for...... time for more prayer.... time for praying for her eyes. Praying for the miraculous healing that we have witnessed over and over with our little girl. She cracked me up.... she can just really tune her pipes when she gets good and ticked. Now that we don’t worry over every little thing she does.... we just really get a kick out of her "mad cry". She can wrinkle up that face, and let out a howl as if to say "WHAT EVER!! Get me my .... milk, lovee, dry diaper, daddy, etc..." Oh my goodness, she is just precious.
Anyway, just a quick update to let you know all is well.....and by the way, Lacey turned in her stuff at work today... she is officially a stay at home Mommy. I know it will be hard for them for awhile, but this time with her baby is sooo precious and it’s time she’ll never get back. So, 10 weeks old, guys, God is Good.
Lolly's reflections & Laynie's Progress- Mar 22
Lolly’s Reflections and Laynie’s Progress
After being gone on vacation for the last few days and having a few minutes to catch my breath and reflect on the last 9 weeks, I am happy to blog to you about the things I’ve come up with to date. First of all, how lucky am I? and how blessed am I to have all of you to share it with!!
First, I want to update you on Miss Laynie. At her orthopedic visit this past week, she weighed in at 4 lbs, 6 oz (that’s up 2 oz, people!) her left hip is completely fixed (!!!! yeah for harnesses) and the doctor feels the right hip feels good, but still is alittle off.... but it WORKED! He’s going to leave her in her casts for a little longer than a week at a time, since she isn’t breaking any land speed records growing...so, she will remain in her casts for 13 days.... This week what was very apparant, was the fact that she moved her feet correctly just as much as she moved them backwards. That baby is going to be MULTI talented, I am telling you. The casts will be on her for many months, though.... Plus, her pediatrician has added 1/2 tsp of formula in every 1 ounce of breast milk, and our little smidge just loves it. Takes the whole ounce, burps like a truck driver and sleeps wonderful! What a blessing for her mommy! She sees the opthomologist on Thursday to see what is going on with her left eye. Hopefully it will be like everything else, and just need a "tune-up", kinda looks cloudy, like a cataract, keep praying that the cure will be easy and non-invasive.
I sent Laynie’s easter bunny picture to the Genetic Head at Children’s and he replied back with "WONDERFUL!..... Resurrection Kid." yes, she is. But, those of you reading and those of you continuing praying... we know "God is GOod." Here’s my thinking over the last 3 stress free, laying and relaxing days.... Always in my past life (I have two lives now, prior to October 3 and after, that day will be forever locked in my memory) I totally took for granted good health. I had 3 healthy babies, all my friends had healthy babies (except one, which I remained blissfully ignorant of her pain until now) Healthy babies everywhere. And when I saw a child with disabilities or a "different" child, I was always a little bit "put off" (I’m trying to be honest here) .. WOW... what did that mom do during pregnancy to cause that? or How could they COPE with that? or even as far as not making eye contact... because what in the world to you ever SAY to someone with a child with obvious disabilities??? This coming from me, who can talk to a mailman or a 99 year old deaf man, or a 3 year old hitting his sister, ANYONE I can talk to.... but put me up with someone that has a disability....rendered speechless. I’ve always said ever since I had Hallie at 37 years old, that God has an AMAZING sense of humor. He knew in his infinite wisdom that all I needed to round out my personality was to have a grandchild with disabilities.
When I found out Lacey was pregnant, and then found out we were having a GIRL, I was at Dollar Tree and found some of the cutest tea party clothes ever. I purchased 2 sets, one for Payten (Greg’s grandbaby and in my heart, mine too) and one for our highly anticipated arrival. 2 precious little high heeled shoes, complete with foo foo skirts, wands and of course, the much needed tiaras. What are princesses without tiaras? After our October 3rd finding, and all the turmoil that ensued those few weeks after, I had forgotten about my purchase. Right after Thanksgiving, probably in one of my darkest days.... I found that sack of tea party regalia, and I sat in the middle of the floor in my closet and just cried and grieved for the precious times I thought we’d be missing, and all the incredible bonding of the first grandbaby/grandma that I would never get to experience with our little baby. That one time. I cried until I thought I could never cry again. Almost made myself sick with the crying, then a voice inside of my heart said "She is fearfully and wonderfully made..... I had her plan before you ever knew she was in existence." and I never cried again... I blogged and I prayed and I believed and I never ever stopped hoping.... until the hospital when the doctors shook our faith, and Lacey and I grieved, holding a tiny little bonnet made of a handkerchief, with her name embroidered on the side, for her to wear home, and carry on her wedding day. That was a hard day. Then we took her home, and she showed us how never to give up, never to stop believing, and gave us the incredible gift of living in the moment. In my whole life I have always been consumed with "When I graduate..." or "When I get this far in my job".... or "When they walk..." or "When they graduate"....... never, EVER "What can I do today that will make a difference for me?" Holland teaches you to slow down, and to appreciate ... well..... LIFE. I saw some special kids on vacation and they were having such a great time. Their parents were all hands on deck and they were having quite the fun. 2 years ago, I wouldn’t have spent 10 seconds thinking about things like "I hope they don’t have heart conditions" or "I wonder what type of trisomy they have". I would have smiled absently and walked on by. God changed my heart. God has changed everyone that reads my blogs hearts. I know that. I think all of us have a better understanding of "Special Gifts" and "God’s Blessing and Miracles". Laynie will have a circle of love and friendship that will sustain her for many years.... but I also know that she will face ignorance, and ugliness, and for that I would protect her with my life. I, myself, was ignorant and never blantantly ugly, but I was apathetic, more out of fear than maliciousness. No more. Every person and every child is a gift from God. And some gifts are more special than others.... and praise GOD I finally know and believe and understand --
God is Good.... All the time.
After being gone on vacation for the last few days and having a few minutes to catch my breath and reflect on the last 9 weeks, I am happy to blog to you about the things I’ve come up with to date. First of all, how lucky am I? and how blessed am I to have all of you to share it with!!
First, I want to update you on Miss Laynie. At her orthopedic visit this past week, she weighed in at 4 lbs, 6 oz (that’s up 2 oz, people!) her left hip is completely fixed (!!!! yeah for harnesses) and the doctor feels the right hip feels good, but still is alittle off.... but it WORKED! He’s going to leave her in her casts for a little longer than a week at a time, since she isn’t breaking any land speed records growing...so, she will remain in her casts for 13 days.... This week what was very apparant, was the fact that she moved her feet correctly just as much as she moved them backwards. That baby is going to be MULTI talented, I am telling you. The casts will be on her for many months, though.... Plus, her pediatrician has added 1/2 tsp of formula in every 1 ounce of breast milk, and our little smidge just loves it. Takes the whole ounce, burps like a truck driver and sleeps wonderful! What a blessing for her mommy! She sees the opthomologist on Thursday to see what is going on with her left eye. Hopefully it will be like everything else, and just need a "tune-up", kinda looks cloudy, like a cataract, keep praying that the cure will be easy and non-invasive.
I sent Laynie’s easter bunny picture to the Genetic Head at Children’s and he replied back with "WONDERFUL!..... Resurrection Kid." yes, she is. But, those of you reading and those of you continuing praying... we know "God is GOod." Here’s my thinking over the last 3 stress free, laying and relaxing days.... Always in my past life (I have two lives now, prior to October 3 and after, that day will be forever locked in my memory) I totally took for granted good health. I had 3 healthy babies, all my friends had healthy babies (except one, which I remained blissfully ignorant of her pain until now) Healthy babies everywhere. And when I saw a child with disabilities or a "different" child, I was always a little bit "put off" (I’m trying to be honest here) .. WOW... what did that mom do during pregnancy to cause that? or How could they COPE with that? or even as far as not making eye contact... because what in the world to you ever SAY to someone with a child with obvious disabilities??? This coming from me, who can talk to a mailman or a 99 year old deaf man, or a 3 year old hitting his sister, ANYONE I can talk to.... but put me up with someone that has a disability....rendered speechless. I’ve always said ever since I had Hallie at 37 years old, that God has an AMAZING sense of humor. He knew in his infinite wisdom that all I needed to round out my personality was to have a grandchild with disabilities.
When I found out Lacey was pregnant, and then found out we were having a GIRL, I was at Dollar Tree and found some of the cutest tea party clothes ever. I purchased 2 sets, one for Payten (Greg’s grandbaby and in my heart, mine too) and one for our highly anticipated arrival. 2 precious little high heeled shoes, complete with foo foo skirts, wands and of course, the much needed tiaras. What are princesses without tiaras? After our October 3rd finding, and all the turmoil that ensued those few weeks after, I had forgotten about my purchase. Right after Thanksgiving, probably in one of my darkest days.... I found that sack of tea party regalia, and I sat in the middle of the floor in my closet and just cried and grieved for the precious times I thought we’d be missing, and all the incredible bonding of the first grandbaby/grandma that I would never get to experience with our little baby. That one time. I cried until I thought I could never cry again. Almost made myself sick with the crying, then a voice inside of my heart said "She is fearfully and wonderfully made..... I had her plan before you ever knew she was in existence." and I never cried again... I blogged and I prayed and I believed and I never ever stopped hoping.... until the hospital when the doctors shook our faith, and Lacey and I grieved, holding a tiny little bonnet made of a handkerchief, with her name embroidered on the side, for her to wear home, and carry on her wedding day. That was a hard day. Then we took her home, and she showed us how never to give up, never to stop believing, and gave us the incredible gift of living in the moment. In my whole life I have always been consumed with "When I graduate..." or "When I get this far in my job".... or "When they walk..." or "When they graduate"....... never, EVER "What can I do today that will make a difference for me?" Holland teaches you to slow down, and to appreciate ... well..... LIFE. I saw some special kids on vacation and they were having such a great time. Their parents were all hands on deck and they were having quite the fun. 2 years ago, I wouldn’t have spent 10 seconds thinking about things like "I hope they don’t have heart conditions" or "I wonder what type of trisomy they have". I would have smiled absently and walked on by. God changed my heart. God has changed everyone that reads my blogs hearts. I know that. I think all of us have a better understanding of "Special Gifts" and "God’s Blessing and Miracles". Laynie will have a circle of love and friendship that will sustain her for many years.... but I also know that she will face ignorance, and ugliness, and for that I would protect her with my life. I, myself, was ignorant and never blantantly ugly, but I was apathetic, more out of fear than maliciousness. No more. Every person and every child is a gift from God. And some gifts are more special than others.... and praise GOD I finally know and believe and understand --
God is Good.... All the time.
March 12, 2008 2 months old!
We have had our special sweetheart for 2 months now. 2 wonderful incredible lifechanging months. The doctors are still shaking their heads. Lacey said to her today "Laynie bug, look at you, sweet peaches!" and little miss just threw back her head and smiled and coo’d. SMILED full out at her mama. That baby can hear and can see, and can respond correctly. She is AMAZING. We’ve heard NOTHING, I repeat, NOTHING from the genetic doctors. I guess they are all just scratching their butts (sorry) saying, "Hmm, guess we shouldn’t have been so QUICK"..... God is good, people. God’s plan for Laynie is happening, and alive in us every day. My brother summed it up in a nutshell.... "I think Laynie’s plan is perfect and love is changing US." Hello. I’ve always seen those "Faith, Hope and Love" things everywhere, and I never got it. Faith is a belief that surpasses understanding, faith is a promise to yourself to believe without question, Hope is giving yourself permission to have the impossible, the serenity of putting yourself out there and just believing in the unbelievable... and Love, well Love is the best.. In Holland, love surrounds you every second. Love comes in quick hugs from people that don’t even know why they are hugging you, love comes in sweet emails from friends you haven’t seen in years that say things like "We are praying for you everyday" and "I shared your story with my church group and we are praying for you without ceasing". ... That my friends is Love. Love is a sweet smile or the funniest little sneeze, followed by the BIGGEST sigh in the world. That’s from our Laynie.
We took Laynie out to Target for her first outing. (Of course it would HAVE to be Target, with me for her Lolly)... She wasn’t having ANY of her carseat nonsense, so of course, out she comes, and there go the jaws dropping. Lacey said "Oh, if ONE more person says, ’she is sooo tiny’, I might lose it"... then immediately said, "Mom, every time you take her from me at the apartment and I look at her with you holding her, I say "She’s sooo tiny"... so what should I expect"??? Hello. SHE IS TINY. :) I was holding her in her blanket, keeping her pretty covered up for germs and such, and she was just talking and squeaking her little pipes, telling me ALL about it, and the lady in the dressing room said "Is there a baby in there? I thought you had a doll". Well, yeah, because I’m a 46 year old that carries my dolls into Target. Wow. People will ALWAYS be fascinated with her because of her mighty size. She weighed in at 4 lbs 4 oz at the orthopedic the other day (we left her onesie on and a dry diaper , so take off 2 oz for that) but guess what?? At 8 weeks old, she is back to birth weight. WHAT A VICTORY~! After our orthopedic visit, we know that our little miss is going to be in casts for a very long time. Her normal reflex and muscle tone take her feet back in the backward position. But I’m not discouraged because after all she’s only been in them 2 weeks. And they don’t bother her one bit, so on we go. She is much easier to grip with her "Paraphenalia" on. The little harness that holds her hips in place really does make her look like a goalie. Be sure and look at my profile, the picture of her and Brad is just precious. You can really see how itty bitty she is. Lacey cracked up because he was sitting her on the back of the chair and they were just talking to each other. I have another pic of them both just smiling at their mom, but I haven’t put it on yet. We have a DANDY pic to share in a week or so, Lacey has first right to put it on her myspace...so we’ll be sharing shortly. Oh, it is beyond precious.
Well, it had been awhile and I wanted to let you all know all is well on the home front and Miss Laynie continues to thrive under her sweet mommy’s watchful and caring eye. Looking forward to sharing her first easter egg hunt with her next week. Isn’t God so good?
We took Laynie out to Target for her first outing. (Of course it would HAVE to be Target, with me for her Lolly)... She wasn’t having ANY of her carseat nonsense, so of course, out she comes, and there go the jaws dropping. Lacey said "Oh, if ONE more person says, ’she is sooo tiny’, I might lose it"... then immediately said, "Mom, every time you take her from me at the apartment and I look at her with you holding her, I say "She’s sooo tiny"... so what should I expect"??? Hello. SHE IS TINY. :) I was holding her in her blanket, keeping her pretty covered up for germs and such, and she was just talking and squeaking her little pipes, telling me ALL about it, and the lady in the dressing room said "Is there a baby in there? I thought you had a doll". Well, yeah, because I’m a 46 year old that carries my dolls into Target. Wow. People will ALWAYS be fascinated with her because of her mighty size. She weighed in at 4 lbs 4 oz at the orthopedic the other day (we left her onesie on and a dry diaper , so take off 2 oz for that) but guess what?? At 8 weeks old, she is back to birth weight. WHAT A VICTORY~! After our orthopedic visit, we know that our little miss is going to be in casts for a very long time. Her normal reflex and muscle tone take her feet back in the backward position. But I’m not discouraged because after all she’s only been in them 2 weeks. And they don’t bother her one bit, so on we go. She is much easier to grip with her "Paraphenalia" on. The little harness that holds her hips in place really does make her look like a goalie. Be sure and look at my profile, the picture of her and Brad is just precious. You can really see how itty bitty she is. Lacey cracked up because he was sitting her on the back of the chair and they were just talking to each other. I have another pic of them both just smiling at their mom, but I haven’t put it on yet. We have a DANDY pic to share in a week or so, Lacey has first right to put it on her myspace...so we’ll be sharing shortly. Oh, it is beyond precious.
Well, it had been awhile and I wanted to let you all know all is well on the home front and Miss Laynie continues to thrive under her sweet mommy’s watchful and caring eye. Looking forward to sharing her first easter egg hunt with her next week. Isn’t God so good?
March 1, 2008
March 1, 2008
I can't believe it's March 1. Wasn't it just Christmas? Wasn't Laynie just born? Now our gift is 6 weeks old. 6 weeks. She continues to amaze.
I had typed a long long blog this morning and somehow managed to erase it before I got it posted. As I was typing it, Lacey called and talked to me, and once again, I was amazed by God's power. What I was typing about, was exactly what was on her heart this morning. We are so blessed. So completely amazingly blessed. My mom spent the night with Lacey last night so she could rest, and Lacey couldn't hardly wait to get in there to see Laynie this morning, and when mom handed her off, and Lacey said "Good morning peaches", Laynie's smile lit up the room. She smiled and smiled and smiled. Coo'd, and turned her head and smiled some more. as if to say "I love ole Grammie Great, but YOUR my favorite, momma". I know what they say about her brain, and the fact that they don't know what her future holds as far as cognitive and developmental learning.... but a baby that smiles and responds and squeaks and talks at 6 weeks old??? That's pretty darn amazing. She holds her head up in the turtle position, and can roll back and forth just great. To me, that is just amazing. She has NO IDEA she weighs 4 pounds (almost). And we are going to keep on keeping on, loving her strong and keeping the faith.
Lacey made a conscious decision on October 3. Now she'll tell you, "I didn't know the enormity of my decision", but she doesn't rail against the injustice of it. She doesn't ask "Oh God, why me?", she looks at Laynie and says "What can I do to glorify God more through her". We believe that our girl will have a special gift, I see all these amazing stories of people with disabilities that are amazing in other areas (see my videos on myspace) and I know that our Laynie will be among those. Her special gift already is the gift of faith. Unwavering Faith that God is Good. She has grown my faith more than I thought possible. Faith was a word about people that went to church. They had faith. Faith was God. What I know about faith now, is the totally undisciplined lack of self, no "self" in a true testament of faith. You are under God's power, when you truly have faith. God directs and leads you, and with HIS purpose foremost in your mind... you walk in Faith. And he hasn't failed us. Not once. We started to doubt God's plan for her in the hospital. We listened to the doctors and the grim outcomes and we lost sight of our faith. It took the Lifechurch team to come to our room and remind us, No one knows God's plan. God has Laynie's plan, and it's perfect and it's complete. And all we are, are his people, to walk through the plan, not self-seeking, but looking to Him for guidance and hope, and keep walking in our complete faith.
I may not be making any sense, and it's frustrating, not being able to put into words the gigantic feelings that I have on this. The purpose of Laynie is perfect. And though through the world's "eyes", our girl will never be perfect.... in those that are touched by her, know her story and her magnificent journey.... she is perfect. She is amazing, and she is His.
You are told all the time by your parents, that you will never understand the love that a grandparent has for a grandchild. You hear it, you listen, you nod.. I just want to tell you, there isn't a feeling I've ever experienced that compares to this love and compassion and faith, that I have with my granddaughter. Coupled with the "Grandma" love that comes naturally, plus the supernatural power of being so close to God right now.. feeling His constant presence in our lives... I wish everyone could have this joy and peace. Peace that passeth understanding. That's having faith in God.
God is Good. All the time.
I can't believe it's March 1. Wasn't it just Christmas? Wasn't Laynie just born? Now our gift is 6 weeks old. 6 weeks. She continues to amaze.
I had typed a long long blog this morning and somehow managed to erase it before I got it posted. As I was typing it, Lacey called and talked to me, and once again, I was amazed by God's power. What I was typing about, was exactly what was on her heart this morning. We are so blessed. So completely amazingly blessed. My mom spent the night with Lacey last night so she could rest, and Lacey couldn't hardly wait to get in there to see Laynie this morning, and when mom handed her off, and Lacey said "Good morning peaches", Laynie's smile lit up the room. She smiled and smiled and smiled. Coo'd, and turned her head and smiled some more. as if to say "I love ole Grammie Great, but YOUR my favorite, momma". I know what they say about her brain, and the fact that they don't know what her future holds as far as cognitive and developmental learning.... but a baby that smiles and responds and squeaks and talks at 6 weeks old??? That's pretty darn amazing. She holds her head up in the turtle position, and can roll back and forth just great. To me, that is just amazing. She has NO IDEA she weighs 4 pounds (almost). And we are going to keep on keeping on, loving her strong and keeping the faith.
Lacey made a conscious decision on October 3. Now she'll tell you, "I didn't know the enormity of my decision", but she doesn't rail against the injustice of it. She doesn't ask "Oh God, why me?", she looks at Laynie and says "What can I do to glorify God more through her". We believe that our girl will have a special gift, I see all these amazing stories of people with disabilities that are amazing in other areas (see my videos on myspace) and I know that our Laynie will be among those. Her special gift already is the gift of faith. Unwavering Faith that God is Good. She has grown my faith more than I thought possible. Faith was a word about people that went to church. They had faith. Faith was God. What I know about faith now, is the totally undisciplined lack of self, no "self" in a true testament of faith. You are under God's power, when you truly have faith. God directs and leads you, and with HIS purpose foremost in your mind... you walk in Faith. And he hasn't failed us. Not once. We started to doubt God's plan for her in the hospital. We listened to the doctors and the grim outcomes and we lost sight of our faith. It took the Lifechurch team to come to our room and remind us, No one knows God's plan. God has Laynie's plan, and it's perfect and it's complete. And all we are, are his people, to walk through the plan, not self-seeking, but looking to Him for guidance and hope, and keep walking in our complete faith.
I may not be making any sense, and it's frustrating, not being able to put into words the gigantic feelings that I have on this. The purpose of Laynie is perfect. And though through the world's "eyes", our girl will never be perfect.... in those that are touched by her, know her story and her magnificent journey.... she is perfect. She is amazing, and she is His.
You are told all the time by your parents, that you will never understand the love that a grandparent has for a grandchild. You hear it, you listen, you nod.. I just want to tell you, there isn't a feeling I've ever experienced that compares to this love and compassion and faith, that I have with my granddaughter. Coupled with the "Grandma" love that comes naturally, plus the supernatural power of being so close to God right now.. feeling His constant presence in our lives... I wish everyone could have this joy and peace. Peace that passeth understanding. That's having faith in God.
God is Good. All the time.
Laynie's Orthopedic Visit - Feb 27, 2008
Laynie’s visit to the orthopedic doctor
Miss Laynie went to her first visit to the orthopedic today. I COULDN"T GO. Seems I have some crud (still not convinced it's the flu) and I am not chancing it. So Lacey called me when they were done and here's what I know.....
Smidge's right hip is very dislocated and may require surgery later. Her left hip can probably be fixed with the harness. BUT he said that she was very "Bendy" and the harness may fix both hips. It looks and fits like overalls on her. and she has 2 itty bitty casts on her feet. (which by the way aren't club feet, they are the opposite of club feet) She has lots of muscle tone in her feet and ankles, which is great, and she jerked and flexed them out of the doctors hands. The xray tech told Lacey that she was the tiniest baby he had ever xrayed! Hello. Our big almost 4 pounder! She also pooped on the xray table. Told them, huh? Let me leave you a little something to remember me by.....
So our girl will be going back to the orthopedic every week for many weeks to come. She has soft casts on both feet, and it was very hard on her mommy this morning. I can't believe I couldn't go. I have been counting the days for this appointment, and I"M SICK. Sigh. I know the financial pressure is becoming a burden to my kids. The doctors bills are enormous, and Lacey told me her co-pay each week for the ortho. Wow. I'm meeting with IBC Bank tomorrow to see if we can set up an account for her. Everyone has been asking what they can do, and honestly, a $20 donation would be an amazing gift to Brad and Lacey right now. Every time she goes to the doctor, they have to pay between $40-$70 because of the "specialist" title. I shudder to think about the hospital (NICU) bills. The kids trust God in all of this, and are just taking it a "day at a time", but I know the burden of financial strain, and WOW.... BUT, encouraging news today is that her feet are fixable, and we'll just watch that little right hip and see if it turns around on it's own. Her shoulders and wrists are fine, just very flexible too! Thanks for your prayers and love..... She is a precious baby.... and our God is soo Good, all the time.
Miss Laynie went to her first visit to the orthopedic today. I COULDN"T GO. Seems I have some crud (still not convinced it's the flu) and I am not chancing it. So Lacey called me when they were done and here's what I know.....
Smidge's right hip is very dislocated and may require surgery later. Her left hip can probably be fixed with the harness. BUT he said that she was very "Bendy" and the harness may fix both hips. It looks and fits like overalls on her. and she has 2 itty bitty casts on her feet. (which by the way aren't club feet, they are the opposite of club feet) She has lots of muscle tone in her feet and ankles, which is great, and she jerked and flexed them out of the doctors hands. The xray tech told Lacey that she was the tiniest baby he had ever xrayed! Hello. Our big almost 4 pounder! She also pooped on the xray table. Told them, huh? Let me leave you a little something to remember me by.....
So our girl will be going back to the orthopedic every week for many weeks to come. She has soft casts on both feet, and it was very hard on her mommy this morning. I can't believe I couldn't go. I have been counting the days for this appointment, and I"M SICK. Sigh. I know the financial pressure is becoming a burden to my kids. The doctors bills are enormous, and Lacey told me her co-pay each week for the ortho. Wow. I'm meeting with IBC Bank tomorrow to see if we can set up an account for her. Everyone has been asking what they can do, and honestly, a $20 donation would be an amazing gift to Brad and Lacey right now. Every time she goes to the doctor, they have to pay between $40-$70 because of the "specialist" title. I shudder to think about the hospital (NICU) bills. The kids trust God in all of this, and are just taking it a "day at a time", but I know the burden of financial strain, and WOW.... BUT, encouraging news today is that her feet are fixable, and we'll just watch that little right hip and see if it turns around on it's own. Her shoulders and wrists are fine, just very flexible too! Thanks for your prayers and love..... She is a precious baby.... and our God is soo Good, all the time.
Laynie Hope 5 weeks old 2-21-08
I got the call from a scared mommy about 11:20 last night. "She's choking on her bottle and she can't breathe". So off I scoot to Edmond.... it's just NO BIG deal making that 45 minute drive anymore. And I can do it in about 30 now, when I'm really motivated. And last night, I was REALLY motivated. By the time I had gotten there, she had righted herself and hacked up her "Loogie". I proceeded to shoo Mommy to bed, and enjoyed an all-nighter with my girl. Am I cross-eyed right now?? Oh yea. Did I go to the Y and walk on the treadmill last night until I couldn't hardly walk to the car. Oh yeah. Did I burn myself in the tanning bed after the excitement of walking my tail off at the Y? Oh yeah. So, how do I feel right now??? Well let's say I don't feel as fresh as a spring daisy... that's for sure. But I did manage to make 2 sales today (GOD IS GOOD) and that seems to always make life a little brighter. Even stuttering and with 2 different socks on... got er done.
Ok, let's talk about Smidge. I don't know what happened with her mom, but the little girl downright talks while she is trying to eat. She grunts and she whistles and she squeaks (My other name for her "Squeaky McSqueaker") while she eats, and all I can figure out is she aspirated some of her milk. She wasn't really happy about it, and yelled at her mom until I got there. When she heard my voice and felt me holding her, she proceeded to tell me all about it, WIDE EYED and squeaking for about 20 minutes. I LOVED IT. Then I gently gave her the rest of her bottle and off to sleepy land we went. Her in her boppy seat on the couch, kinda propped up, and me with my legs under her sprawled out on the couch. (Pretty sight). We slept that way until about 3 am. Then she took her bottle, burped like a big girl, sang alittle to me, and off we went BACK to sleep, this time in our bed, instead of that fun couch, (hee hee, OUR bed), with her sprawled on her wedge, bundled to the hilt with blankets, and me slumbering beside her (far enough to not smash, but close enough to pat). So, she and I, we're a team. Love that baby.
She's going to her pediatrician in the morning and discuss the possibility of adding some formula to see if we can get her to gain some weight. She hovers around 3 lbs 9 oz, and just isn't going anywhere fast. I never really expected her to, but it still feels like we're not doing enough, not to even grow a few ounces. So the best thing to say to us is NOT, "Is she getting big"?? Uhm, no. My hope is she weighs 6 lbs by the time she is 6 months old. That would be a victory.
Did I tell you guys about American Girl "Itty Bitty" baby clothes? They fit our girl. And one of Lacey's cousins brought a box of the sweetest clothes over and our girl was sooo patient letting us change her, and change her and change her. She was such a great trooper. I think she liked having some clothes that fit. What an angel.
You can see a picture of her on my pics in her album. Cute as a button.
Thanks for the calls on reminding us about Shriner's Hospital. Hopefully, her feet won't be that big of a deal, and we can fix them with splints or casts. If you are still praying for our angel, let's focus on 3 things... her continued good eating skills, the fluid on her brain to be gone, and ease of the process of splints and casts. Lacey & Brad's blood work was perfect. No chromosomal abnormalities in either one. Now we wait for a vein to get big enough on Laynie to see what is up with her. Meanwhile, we keep on getting great days and sweet smiles. God is SOO good.. all the time.
Ok, let's talk about Smidge. I don't know what happened with her mom, but the little girl downright talks while she is trying to eat. She grunts and she whistles and she squeaks (My other name for her "Squeaky McSqueaker") while she eats, and all I can figure out is she aspirated some of her milk. She wasn't really happy about it, and yelled at her mom until I got there. When she heard my voice and felt me holding her, she proceeded to tell me all about it, WIDE EYED and squeaking for about 20 minutes. I LOVED IT. Then I gently gave her the rest of her bottle and off to sleepy land we went. Her in her boppy seat on the couch, kinda propped up, and me with my legs under her sprawled out on the couch. (Pretty sight). We slept that way until about 3 am. Then she took her bottle, burped like a big girl, sang alittle to me, and off we went BACK to sleep, this time in our bed, instead of that fun couch, (hee hee, OUR bed), with her sprawled on her wedge, bundled to the hilt with blankets, and me slumbering beside her (far enough to not smash, but close enough to pat). So, she and I, we're a team. Love that baby.
She's going to her pediatrician in the morning and discuss the possibility of adding some formula to see if we can get her to gain some weight. She hovers around 3 lbs 9 oz, and just isn't going anywhere fast. I never really expected her to, but it still feels like we're not doing enough, not to even grow a few ounces. So the best thing to say to us is NOT, "Is she getting big"?? Uhm, no. My hope is she weighs 6 lbs by the time she is 6 months old. That would be a victory.
Did I tell you guys about American Girl "Itty Bitty" baby clothes? They fit our girl. And one of Lacey's cousins brought a box of the sweetest clothes over and our girl was sooo patient letting us change her, and change her and change her. She was such a great trooper. I think she liked having some clothes that fit. What an angel.
You can see a picture of her on my pics in her album. Cute as a button.
Thanks for the calls on reminding us about Shriner's Hospital. Hopefully, her feet won't be that big of a deal, and we can fix them with splints or casts. If you are still praying for our angel, let's focus on 3 things... her continued good eating skills, the fluid on her brain to be gone, and ease of the process of splints and casts. Lacey & Brad's blood work was perfect. No chromosomal abnormalities in either one. Now we wait for a vein to get big enough on Laynie to see what is up with her. Meanwhile, we keep on getting great days and sweet smiles. God is SOO good.. all the time.
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