Day 330: Home from a long week!

A long week with little sleep, food, and showers. Madison had major separation issues when I tried to leave her for any reason so I didn't. We have several meds back on board (not ideal, but we are home).We are praying for a calm weekend! We will return to clinic on Monday.

I stopped in Vandalia on my way home! We had no groceries, toliet paper, or laundry soap... Thankful for my little brother again for sitting in the car with Madison while she slept and I picked up what I needed!

Nothing says, "I love you" then a friend showing up to the house to help unload the car, get laundry going, meds put away, etc. I'm pretty sure I would be lost without my Debbie Hall. Coming home from the hospital is insane! Not only does everything have to be washed or cloroxed, but getting old meds out of the frig and new ones in takes time.

After 330+ days I'm still learning, growing, etc. I've decided that the crazy of a person comes out when running on no sleep. As this stay was draining on all levels it had its rewards. Ryan and I had lots of snuggle time with Madison, we met several new families (also, heartbreaking), we grew a little stronger, and our faith was shared.

Ryan and I strive to be positive, but let's be honest seeing children who are sick is heartbreaking. Seeing parents emotionally, physically, and spiritual drained while caring for their child brings us to tears. As you enjoy all your summer fun please be in constant prayer for those that are sick.

When in battle (we've had several this year) you notice your human weaknesses. Battle after battle they begin to fade as God trains you. After this battle week's battle I'm aware of the places I need God's grace. God is never done molding us.

Practical Ways to show you are present:
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The list below are things that have literally kept me awake at night. It seems family after family I come in contact with have the same needs. All we need is to feel loved.
Do you know someone who is terminally ill or caring for someone who is? Here are some practical ways to help.

1. Call! Often we take the backseat approach saying things, "If they need me or want me to know they will call me!" False! When your caring for a loved one that is all you have time for... Pick up the phone, text, and ask how the loved one is doing.

2. Just do it! If you know of something that needs to be done do it! Using the excuse, "Well, I didn't know.." is just that an excuse!

3. Assuming since several months, years, etc. has gone by that everyone is healthy and normal is just that an assumption. Let's be honest everyone wants to be "back to normal," but it takes time. In the world of terminal illness it may never be normal.

4. Respond. If you are getting updates on a loved one a simple "thanks for the update" goes a long way. No response sends the message you don't care or your too busy to care.

5. Be present. I've said this time and time again being where God calls you is so important. Loving others is what God has called us to do... Even in the midst of our crazy we find ways to love others the way Christ does us.

Remember we are God's hands and feet!

Enjoy your weekend and remember God placed you where you are for a reason!