Discouraging

Please read Lynette's blog for the complete update.

Olive has Staphylococcus Aureus, which means she has meningitis. Praying for healing of the infection and that she can stabilize enough for the trip to the states on the 24th.

They're back

The boys made it home safely on Tuesday night.

I told Tyler I had seen a picture of him holding baby Jillian.

He said, "I held her more than one time. I had lots of practice for holding my new sister."

He paused, as though it had dawned on him, "I forgot...you're pregnant!"
Silly.

He also, apparently, bonded with his Daddy on this trip. The other night, I hollered at Wayne to come upstairs.

Tyler looked at me and said, "Don't yell at Daddy. That's my Daddy. Be nice to him. He is the best Daddy in the whole United States of America." :)

They had a great time. I am thankful that they could join in this special family time! And I'm also happy to hear that Jillian (and her parents) continue to do very well.

Infection for Olive

Lynette posted to her blog, which I would encourage you to read.

Olive has developed an infection from the temporary drain and has to be on two IV antibiotics again. The nurses are again having trouble starting an IV on her.

Tomorrow an opthamologist has to assess Olive's eyes again. Sounds like a very uncomfortable procedure. They put metal clips on her eyelids and pull them back - which makes Olive cry. :(

They are still planning to fly to Grand Rapids on November 24th! :)

Eye surgery

Lynette posted about Olive's laser eye surgery. It went well! :)

Government hospital and coming home?

Lynette posted an update on her blog. She reported that the doctors at the government hospital are overworked and after Olive's head circumference had continued to increase for six days, they finally put in another drain this morning (this evening in Thailand). Pray that she does not develop an infection so that they can fly home to the states on Monday, November 23rd!

Jillian

Sue sent me a couple more pictures tonight, and I think they're worth posting.

The new Showalter family

Tyler and Jillian...don't let her get away, Tyler! :O)

I miss my boys. While I'm thankful that they had this opportunity to visit, and it sounds like they had a great time, I'm so glad they're coming home tomorrow!

Potato Chips

Microwave Potato Chips
-Adapted from Taste of Home

1 potato
1 T or so olive oil
salt

Scrub the potato and cut into thin slices, about 1/16 inch-thick. (I used my mandolin). Lay 3 paper towels on a plate. Toss the potato slices in olive oil and arrange on the paper towel. Do not overlap. Sprinkle with salt. Microwave for 3 minutes. Turn and microwave for 2-3 minutes more until the potatoes are dry. Sprinkle on a little more salt. (I did 3 minutes/side and they were golden brown and crunchy). Let cool for at least a minute before serving.

Delicious!


OK, does it make it better or worse that I made these after I went to the YMCA tonight? :)

Update from the boys...

Wayne and Tyler seem to be enjoying themselves with the family in Indianapolis. Sounds like Tyler has been Hollins' shadow. Today, Grandpa and Grandma Stuckey came down for their first visit to Hollins and Rachel's house.

Wayne sent me some pictures today.

Here is my new niece, Jillian Kaye.

Tyler and Caesar


Watching Daddy from the stairway.


I've also been enjoying my time at home. I've gotten a lot of little projects done around here. I guess that way I can relax with them when they get back. :)

Lynette posted this morning...

"This morning the neurosurgeon did another ultrasound and he was pleased with the results. He said that her brain tissue is continuing to expand and he was also pleased with how active she has been. For the last two days she has been breathing only room air, so that is also good news!

They are considering trying to switch all of her medicines to go through her ng tube and remove her IVs now that she is getting 22 ml of my milk 8 times a day. This way they won't have to keep poking her.

We are feeling encouraged as we crawl into bed tonight.

love,

Lynette"


Woo Hoo! Sweet little Olive - we love you so much. What encouraging news!

Olive moved again...

Lynette posted several updates to her blog since I have posted anything here. Sounds like there are still lots of changes, most recently with her being moved to the army hospital in Bangkok.