One Week

A week has passed since Meagan and I finally got to see and touch the little boy that has changed our lives. We have been so blessed to have so many positive things happen since the arrival of Carter.
God is working in and through Carter everyday. His first surgery, Tuesday (8/24) was a success. The omphalocele was repaired and a colostomy was made. His bladder halves were approximated and put together. The surgeons had told us, many weeks ago, that any extra tissue would be important for reconstructive purposes. Things like the appendix could be used as such. Knowing this, it was great news to hear that God has blessed Carter with two appendices! Now we are awaiting signs of the colostomy properly functioning so we may begin feedings. We are truly blessed to be where we are and we owe all the Glory to God!
One of the biggest discoveries we have made as parents is that Carter recognizes our voices. He doesn't jump up and down but his eyes move back and forth looking for us. He reacts more to his Mama's voice, but tonight (8/27) he wanted his Daddy! The nurses got my attention and said he was moving every time I spoke. So, I talked to him for nearly 30 minutes before it was Mama time again! Daddy was super proud!
We thank You God for our little boy! It is so hard to leave him because he is all we think about! However, we know that is in Your hands. Watch him, heal him and protect. We know all things are possible through You. Amen!

BC 8/27/2010

Brandon Carter Cline is Here!

Brandon Carter Cline, Carter to all of his family and friends, entered the world at 9:29 a.m. August 20th, 2010. As the proud Daddy, his Mama and I are excited beyond all explanation.
Yesterday Meagan and I attended our 2nd of two weekly appointments. Her blood pressure was high and Dr. Gray was ready to deliver. Meagan was admitted to the Labor and Delivery floor and we waited for showtime. This morning, August 20th, we got the word at about 8 a.m. and suited up for the arrival of our precious little boy.
It seemed like an eternity but before long we heard the cry of our son. He looked great. Meagan and I saw God in our little boy. He is a miracle.
I am a proud father and I have to admit to I was a nervous wreck. It's a character flaw because I know God is in control.
Update on Meagan and Carter. Meagan is doing great and recovering in the Labor and Delivery. Carter looks great. His O.E.I.S. complex is in about the best possible condition it can be in. Everything appears to be very operable. His spinal defect is looking less and less like the original monster it appeared to be. Carter is kicking his legs and moving his toes. He weighs in at a whopping 3lbs and 3oz. Stay tuned for more updates.

Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope...

Wow! How time flies! I am now 32 weeks and have been on bedrest almost six weeks. I still go to the Dr. every 3 days. We have had a few scares with another stay in the hospital for a kidney stone, Carter not doing his practice breathing and my fluid getting a little low. However, overall Carter has looked great. Our goal was to get to 30 weeks and we are now past that. Everyday now is a true blessing. We are going to continue to take it day by day and get Carter as far along as possible.

Carter has a lot of hair!!!:)