Bugs and blessings

The nefarious TBC (Tummy Bug Crud) has systematically attacked the Craciun family this past week. Monday night, Kendra became pale and lethargic and vomited for the next 24 hours. In pain, unable to eat, and with an irritated colostomy, she had to spend a night at SHMC for observation and hydration. Early Tuesday morning, Ian joined the fun. Full bedding change was required, but with a bucket handy he made it through the next 12 hours in not too bad of shape. Filip and I experienced nausea, but nothing more. Two blissfully healthy days passed. Then yesterday Evan had a walk-a-thon. After one lap he complained his tummy hurt, and I'm thinking, "I've gotta get this kid into shape." We left early, came home for a snack and some rest, and an hour later I hear, "Honey, we've got a problem." Yeah, him too. Only this little guy can't aim. We were scrubbing laminate, carpet, couches, and rugs all afternoon and evening. I went to bed thinking, "At least Collin was spared..." Well, you guessed it. 1:00 am - moaning and puking from the babe. We spent a good part of the night rocking and consoling. He's not a very good puker either. He fights it and tries to get it back down. No good.

However, despite all this chaos, we continue to see God's loving hand on us. Kendra's hospital stay was kept short, and they didn't find anything serious like a dreaded obstruction. My mom, who was gone on vacation all last week, was around to help when I had to stay with Kendra and get her to appointments. One of those appointments was to get her hearing aid. We were told at the last appointment that what would benefit her most, a unit called a BAHA, cost $4000 and was rarely covered by our insurance. We were expecting to get a less expensive, bulkier, and less effective aid. But God poured His blessings on us yet again. The first aid they tried to get for her is currently out of production, and the second option is far too large and unsuitable for infants. So, they fit her with the BAHA!! She's using a clinic rental for now, but the technician believes that, under the circumstances, insurance should cover it and she'll be getting her own within a few weeks! Praise the Lord!! Yet another blessing was having our good friend safely deliver her darling baby girl on Wednesday. New life - a gift from the Author of Life. So, all in all, not a bad week. Bugs, blessings... and a baby!