Day Eleven- December 16th

After going in circles between Rylan's neonatologist, our pediatrician, the genetic specialist, and the transfer of information between Lubbock UMC, the NICU doctors, Baylor, and Texas Children's in Houston, I'm left feeling dizzy and throughly confused.

The frustrating part is that we are being told to wait until next week until we can get results back from a specific amino acid test until they can confirm or deny that she will have long-term (or even short-term) affects from this disease. I think that the Lubbock NICU doctor jumped the gun and scared us more than they should have. There are various levels of MSUD and her levels are borderline abnormal. This is a huge relief to hear, but we're not out of the woods just yet. Levels can change drastically overnight, and be elevated when she gets sick with a fever. We have been given the okay to call the specialist's cell phone number if we need to take her the the TX Children's Emergency room in the medical center so that he can come and consult immediately. There are certain signs we have to watch for. She is showing 5 of the 7 signs of MSUD as of right now, but her eating is sufficient. She's not vomiting, and she gained 1 ounce today! Yea! She gained the weight of a paper clip, but we're very proud, nonetheless.

As for her demeanor, she's the sweetest thing that ever was! It's so easy to fall in love with her. Her little noises are precious, and her expressions are hilarious! She's a perfect Christmas gift from God.

Brayden & Ashlyn are crazy about her. I think Brooklyn is seeing her as competition, but she was very interested in her noises and cries. I think she thinks Rylan is a baby doll.

I was amazed at the growth of Brooklyn while we were gone. Oh my goodness. She is so grown up now, and way taller!

Getting used to four girls in the house all day will take some adjustments, but we'll get there. My mom is here to help out this week (thank goodness)! I've told myself all day today, "Oh my goodness, we have four girls now." It's not surreal anymore. This is reality. This is my "God, I really want a baby so bad" prayers raining down on us. What joy they bring.

Please continue to pray for Rylan's results. Pray for our family, as we adjust to this new adventure in our lives.

Thank you for taking the time to read our blog. Thank you for being our friends. Thank you for prayers. Thank you for showing me God's face through your actions.

All our love,
Casey