I have to start with an apology. I am sorry for such a brief last update. I have been overwhelmed with all of Carter's care. I did not realize how hard it would be. I thank God everyday for leading me to my career. Although, it is hard to admit, if I was not a nurse there would be NO WAY I could do all of Carter's care right now.

The past few weeks have made me realize just how fragile and temporary our lives are here on earth. We are all here with one goal and that's to get to heaven. I sometimes question how God could forgive me for all of my sin and why he chose Carter (the son of two very ordinary people) to carry such a heavy cross. Then I am reminded "For Christ died for sins once for all the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God." 1 Peter 3:18a. I also know there is no stronger little boy that could and would fight through all of this pain. I know I couldn't. His strength amazes me. One day his cross will be lifted and oh how I cannot wait to be in heaven to see that day. If God had the strength to give his only Son so I could get to heaven then I have the strength to climb this small hill on Carter's journey.

So a little about my little gift. Carter's day consist of constant TPN, 10 hours of lipids and back and forth antibiotics going through his PICC line. Of course, his antibiotics are not compatible with his TPN, so we are constantly flushing, cleaning and starting or stopping fluids. We are also closely monitoring his intake and output and he has multiple dressing changes a day. So as I said before to say that I have been busy is an understatement. Again, thank God I am a pediatric nurse and already had the knowledge to provide Carter with the care he needs. We would most likely still be in the hospital if not.

Our heads are still above water and Carter is doing great. Carter clapped and smiled for hours once we got home from the hospital. I guess, since he has had to stay home so much he loves it. There is no other place he would rather be. He is a different child at home. When Carter got discharged from the hospital, he was unable to sit up on his own. He is gradually building his strength and has started crawling again and can sometimes pull himself up. I have been very impressed with his progress. He is a different baby than he was a few weeks ago. Carter's TPN has made a huge difference. He has hair! His teeth have really started to come in and his personality and speech have really developed. When he is awake he is much more aware and alert. He is still sleeping a lot during the day. He spends most of the day sitting in his boppy playing with his toys watching Veggie Tales. I usually try to minimize his TV (he is an addict) but right now he is healing and it makes him happy.

Every Tuesday we see our surgeon, get blood drawn for our GI Dr. and go to our home health agency for Carter's weekly PICC line dressing change and physical. I am very thankful everyone worked together, so I only have to get Carter and all of his supplies out one day a week.

Even though we have been extremely busy, I cannot say how happy I am to be Carter's mom. He melts my heart. I have no other desire in the world, but to be his mommy. Of course, my heart melted a little more while in the hospital, he started saying "I want my mama!" during one of his dressing changes. Now Carter's vocabulary consist of mama, uh-oh mama and now I want my mama! Don't feel too bad for Brandon. He calls him mama too.

For right now Carter will stay on his IV medications and we will continue to closely monitor him. If he stays infection free he will have his next surgery in 5-7 weeks. If he gets a fever or has any signs of infection he will be admitted back into the hospital. I ask for continued prayers, specifically for healing, strength and for him to stay fever and infection free.

I cannot begin to say how thankful Brandon and I are for each and every one of our followers on this crazy little journey called Carter's Journey. We honestly could not do it without all of you. You have no idea how much an encouraging word or even a short e-mail means. This past year I have been blown away by the growth and amount of love our family has received by followers of Carter's Journey. I am thankful to each and every one of you and as always..To him be the Glory!