Family ties....

This week has come and gone in a blur. It began with an offer on our home in KY....could this be the one? We still have several hurdles such as inspection on Tuesday (if you think to pray), but we'll see.

Next, came the saga of the mysterious rash that covers my upper back, chest, arms, and legs. I've been to two docs in two states and have had both a steriod pack and shot....maybe it's getting better? It's hard to say. Besides, they still have no clue what in the world caused it. But I do love how my friend, Les said that at least by taking steriods to heal I might also get buff! Love that!

And last but not least...my sweet nephew who was due to arrive 9.9.09 came 5 weeks early. My sister, Mel, went in for a normal appointment and found out her fluid was way low, and the baby had the cord wrapped twice. So, about 2 hours later they welcomed Ryan Kemp Simpson into the world via c-section. Due to his premature arrival, he was taken to a different hospital to a NICU because his lungs are not fully developed and because he has an infection. He's stable on the respirator currently, but they are hoping for a clear chest xray in order to proceed in weaning him off oxygen and getting him stronger. His heart has also been a bit of a concern, but we'll know more on that later.

Meanwhile, back at the beach Dad and I packed up and headed to NW AR to be with them. 17 hours later we arrived. Dad got to go in and meet Ryan, but I still haven't had the chance (only parents and grandparents are allowed in the NICU). I did stay with Mel overnight in the hospital, and we got to bring her home the following morning. Since then we've just been juggling the 3 other kids, meals, trips to the NICU, laundry and housekeeping, etc.

My precious hubs kept my two kiddos for two days at home while he worked, and then drove 12 hours to be with his family in Memphis. It will be crowded at his Mom and Dad's too because The Crenshaw recently sold their house and have moved in with Mom and Dad while waiting for their new home to be built.

I have been struck by how some people have communicated that they can't believe we'd come all this way...stay for extended time....how the hubs' family could tolerate all those people in the same house...etc. REALLY? Isn't that what family does/is? I know that I am blessed to be in a family (on both sides) that truly walks with the Lord and loves one another. I guess that's not the norm, but I can't imagine having it any other way. I'm so thankful for that! I feel so blessed! Thank you Lord! And thank you sweet family....for always being there to fill in the gaps in one another lives...what a picture of Christ you are to me and to all those who watch you in action!

Okay, last but not least....check out the pictures of the newest addition to our sweet family, Ryan Kemp Simpson. Please continue praying for his little life! Thank you! Oh, and if you want to link into Mel's blog just go to http://www.5simpsons.blogspot.com .