Tuesday, June 30, 2009

From Charles....

Hey Guys,

I was looking ahead to our next month’s topic and want to encourage you to prepare for class.

We will be “Experiencing God Triune-ly.” That is right, a month long study on the Trinity. We thought 1 John 5:16 was difficult (and I am still looking at it) but the Trinity is a great challenge. One that we can understand in part but the concept of three people working together in perfect will and harmony is foreign to us to say the least. With God, all things are possible.

Have a great week and come prepared to discuss. We also need to try to plan a canoeing/tubing trip that seems to be of interest.

Blessings,
Charles

Sunday June 28, 2009

We had a great Bridge Builder time together with the Pathfinders class. There were a lot of prayer requests mentioned and Charles had a praise of thanksgiving for Jenn's breakfast casserole!! :)

PRAYER REQUESTS:
Abbie Connor- she is doing better, see previous post for Monday's update. Please continue to remember Bobby and Tonya as they are traveling to see her everyday and having to spend a lot of time waiting and watching. Tonya's body is still trying to recover from the section and needs some rest. Remember to pray for Drew and his understanding of the situation with Abbie.

Tria Greene- Leigh's friend had cancer surgery yesterday in Birmingham. Please pray for a good outcome and quick recovery.

Jim Law and family- Jim will be leaving for Afghanistan or Iraq. Please pray for safe travel for him and that his family will cope well while he is away. Please pray specifically for peace, comfort and safety.

Nicole Hyatt- student who has staff infection in her eye. As of Sunday was hospitalized. Please pray for healing.

Amy Howard had a young child to drown. Please pray for peace for this mom and she tries to put together the pieces of her life without her baby. This will be a very difficult time for her and the rest of their family.

Dusty Moles' family. Dusty was run over by a train and was killed. Please remember this family as they grieve the loss of their loved one.

Craig Elliott has to transition back to one of his old doctors. Please pray that problems will be resolved.

Gary Ray- an old student of Obed's who is having some financial trouble for school. He has been dealt a tough hand, but has fought his way to success. He has been given a partial scholarship, however still needs to find about $25,000 for schooling fees. Please pray for an intervention with these financial troubles. Please pray that he will feel God's peace and know there is hope and that God is in control.

Ingram family- Laura Beth's grandfather will be having heart surgery and at his age, this is risky. Please pray for the physicians caring for him and the family who will be caring for him post-surgery. Also, Laura Beth's father will be transitioning with his job where he will staying in Birmingham most of the time. Please remember to pray for Laura Beth's mom since she will be home alone most of the time. I only know them as Babbie and Papa, so there you go!

ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Meal ministry will begin for the Connors once Abbie is home. Please be pre-planning your meal!

Social-?? Do we want a July social or wait until August?

Evan Talley's baby dedication will be Sunday during the 8:30 service. We hope you can join us for this special time for our family.

Hope you all have a wonderful week! See you on Sunday!!!

Update on Abbie from Yesterday

Monday, June 29, 2009

Abbie had a good day today. She kept all of her feedings down except for 2.The doctor has ordered that they up her feedings by 3 cc & turn her IVfluids down so we can wean her off again. When we left tonight Abbie hadfinished her lipids & they were taken off. Her multivitamins were switchedover to just the sugar water since her feedings were better. Hopefully theIV will be off tomorrow. Abbie lost some weight today & at the end of the night she weighed 4 pounds 6 ounces.

Friday, June 26, 2009

Abbie Grace Connor Update

I have been trying to get an email system set up for keeping everyoneupdated on Abbie Grace Connor. I think I have finally gotten it started.Today's email is a little longer than planned but gives an update on Abbiesince her birth. After this email they will be much shorter with only thatday's update. We appreciate all the calls and prayers we have received. Wejust ask that everyone continue to pray for Abbie & for us. We have notbeen to the hospital today yet but are getting ready to go that direction.She has had an Upper GI ordered for this morning so she wouldn't be in theNICU for us to see. She did have a good night her nurse said other than thespitting up. I will send out another update later tonight or in the morningwith today's results.Thanks again for all the prayers & calls! Tonya

Abbie Grace ConnorS
aturday, June 20, 2009
I was admitted into the Labor & Delivery unit at Baptist East a little after6:00 pm. After being checked & placed on the monitor it was determined Iwas 3 cm but my contractions were causing Abbie’s heart rates to drop offthe monitor. She was in distress. The decision to perform an emergencyc-section by Dr. Newman was made & Abbie Grace Connor was born at 8:24 pm.She was 4 pounds 4 ounces & was 18 ½ “ long. For some reason my placentahad gotten “old” at some point & was no longer providing Abbie with thenutrients she had needed. Abbie was brought to my room a little beforemidnight & we were able to spend some time with her. Little did we know atthis point things were about to change.

Sunday, June 21, 2009
At 12:45 am the nurse came to recheck her blood sugar level before herfeeding because it had been low at birth. Her blood sugar now was less than24 & she was taken to the nursery to be placed on an IV. Throughout the dayon Sunday we battled several things. Her blood sugar levels kept going up &down which meant she had to remain on the IV’s & receive sugar water. Herrespirations kept going to high which then meant she had to be fed through afeeding tube in her nose instead of by bottle. When her respirations werelow enough she could receive feedings by bottle, but then she battledprojectile spit up. We also learned by talking to Dr. Glover (pediatricianon rotation) that morning that she had a sacral dimple located on her lowerback & had to find out if it was opened or closed. If it was opened it wasvery serious, but if it was closed we would be okay. He felt as though itwas closed because they had not seen any spinal fluid leaking from it butuntil her other vitals were stabilized we would not know for sure. Shewould probably have to go through radiology to find out for sure. Dr.Glover also told us to be very thankful she had been born on Saturdaybecause she was on the verge of death & would not have made it much longer.He also informed us that Abbie would probably remain in the hospital untilweekend to get everything straightened out. By Sunday night, Abbie weighed4 pounds 4.9 ounces.

Monday, June 22, 2009
Abbie remained in the nursery again today. Her blood sugar still went up &down. The nurse was able during the night to switch her to a soy-basedformula & the spitting up was much better. Because of this Dr. Morrison(pediatrician on rotation) decided to cancel her Upper GI that was scheduledfor this morning. Her bilirubin or jaundice count was high by the evening &she was placed in the light box. Her weight at the end of the night was 4pounds 2.5 ounces. The neonatologist was called in during the night for aconsultation & ordered several lab works to be done at 8:00 the nextmorning.

Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Dr. Trumbull (our actual pediatrician & the one on rotation) met with us &gave us the news that Abbie would be moving to the NICU. Her lab work wasbeginning to come in & her platelet count was way too low. A normal countwas close to 150 & hers was 29. They had to determine what could be causingthis problem. They were starting her on antibiotics. The blood sugar wasalso still an issue. He felt that by moving her over she could be moreclosely monitored & that they would be able to do much more for her. So wemoved from the well baby nursery we had been in to the NICU & our stay hadnow been extended to about Tuesday. Our new doctor in charge would be Dr.Woodall. Once in the NICU Abbie received a platelet transfusion. The lowplatelet count he believed was caused by either an infection of some kind orpossibly by my antibodies. Blood work from me was ordered to helpdetermine the cause. Abbie’s jaundice count was now a 12 so she wouldremain on the lights. A central IV line was also added in Abbie’s foot. Westill are not able to really hold her because of the IV’s & having to remainon the light.

Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Things begin to look better today. Abbie’s platelet counts did go up & downbut always remained in the acceptable range. This causes Dr. Woodall tobelieve the problem is going to be my antibodies rather than an infection.Her respirations have been doing well. Through the IV they have been ableto regulate her blood sugar & she will begin her bottle feedings back thisafternoon. She had an MRI & a stomach ultrasound ordered & everything cameback good on this. The sacral dimple appeared to be closed but Dr. Woodallinformed us that we would later see a neurosurgeon in Birmingham to decideif surgery would be needed or not. Abbie’s feeding tube in her nose & theIV in her hand were both removed. By the end of the night Abbie’s weight was4 pounds 2 ounces.

Thursday, June 25, 2009
Today was another good day. Abbie’s jaundice count has come down to 6.5 so1 light has been removed. She was moved into an isolation box that isquieter, more comfortable, and means we are able to get her out & hold herat feeding times. I got to change a diaper for my first time today. Herblood sugar continued to stay regulated so her last IV came out. She ishaving the spitting up problem again with her feedings & so they are tryinga lactose free formula. If the spitting up continues they will order theUpper GI to be done. The platelet count remained good today. Dr. Woodallinformed us that after talking to the neurosurgeon in Birmingham that wewill not be seeing him about the dimple since it appears to be closed. Theydo not surgically repair them any more like they used to. We also got toget her out of the isolation box for a little over an hour when we fed her.She was so alert & it felt so reassuring. By the end of the night sheweighed 4 pounds 5 ounces.

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Update on Jenn's Grandfather

Got an update from Jenn- her grandfather came through surgery well. They were only able to do 3 bypasses instead of the 5 that they felt was needed. He is in ICU at this point and they do not know much more at this time. Please remember him, the family and medical staff who are caring for him. I'll keep you posted!!

New Prayer Request

I received an email from Jenn Ellis last night (sorry it is just now being posted, did not get it till this morning), her grandfather Ernest Bittle had emergency open heart surgery last night. When I have an update, I will send it out. Please be in prayer that his recovery goes well and that he is up and about soon. Also remember the family members who will be caring for him during this time! We hope he is better soon, Jenn!

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Abby Grace Update!

Just spoke with Bobby and got some news on Abby Grace. She weighed 4lbs 4 ozs and was 18 1/2 long at birth. She has been moved to the NICU at Baptist East. She was/is having trouble maintaining her blood sugar. It continues to drop. She has an IV and is receiving platelets because that count too is low. The Dr.'s would like for her level to be in the 50's and hers has dropped to 29 (was in the 30's). She is also on antibiotics in case there is an infection that is causing the platelet level to drop. The Dr.'s can not find an infection, but are treating as if there is one.They have told Tonya and Bobby that she will be in the NICU for at least 7 days.

Bobby expressed that they are tired and confused. The Dr.'s don't have a lot they can tell them. He said they are just shaking their heads saying we don't know. I can't imagine how scared they must be. When asked if there is anything we can do, he said "Just PRAY!"

Please, please remember baby Abby Grace, Tonya, Bobby and Drew. Remember the physician's when you pray but know the Great Physician is already healing her body according to His will. Please pray for answers and comfort.

Father's Day- June 21, 2009

Happy Father's Day! What a treat it was to be in the house of the Lord on such a special day for many! For those who this was their first Father's Day, we hope it was a great day for you. Take time to thank Jesus for the precious gift of children! Some have lost their dads, but take comfort in knowing you will see them again one day. Memories are special gifts that God has granted us. Make many with your children!
We heard a great message from my parent's pastor where he encouraged all fathers to let their children see and hear them pray. He also asked that the father's let their children know where they would spend eternity so that if they did not wake in the morning, their children would not have to question where they were spending eternity. Be a living testimony of God's goodness before your children. Be the spiritual leader that God has called you to be!

PRAYER REQUESTS:
Tonya Connor had baby Abby Grace. She entered the world a little small. I have tried to call today and get an update, but no one answered. I will try again later. Please pray that all is well with Abby. Pray that Tonya and Bobby get some rest and are able to adjust well to another little one being in the house. Also remember Drew as he learns to handle his new role as "The Big Brother!"

The Ellis' neighbor- he passed away very suddenly and unexpectedly. Please remember this family as they cope with their loss. Let's join together and pray that they will seek and find comfort through Jesus.

The family of the man who lost his life Sunday in the Coosa- Jenn Ellis mentioned this family on facebook. Please pray for comfort for this family as well. Losing a loved one is never easy, especially when it occurs due to traumatic accidents.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Sunday School Social- ???
Meal Ministry for Connor Family- ???
Places of Service- See Charles to get plugged in!

Hope you all have a blessed week! Hope to see you Sunday!!! Stay Cool!!

Monday, June 15, 2009

June 14, 2009

May others see Jesus in us and may He be very well pleased with our words and actions. Thank you Charles for a great lesson this week. May it be our prayer that we be mindful of others and that we will remember to love them as Christ has loved us. We were so glad to have a couple visitors with us this week, but missed those who could not be with us. We pray all is well and we will see your faces this coming Sunday.

PRAYER REQUESTS:
The Connor family- down to the final 2 weeks before Abbey Grace (Abbi Grace, Abby Grace, Abbie Grace-not sure on the spelling yet) joins the Connor household. Let's remember to pray for a safe and quick delivery for Tonya, calm nerves for Bobby and that Drew will adjust well to a new little one in the home.

Jenn Ellis' friend- delivered new baby today. Be in prayer for this family as they welcome their new little one home.

PRAISES:
VBS is complete with one known salvation. God is so good!!

The Connor's are official members of FB! Welcome Connor Family!!!

Jenn Ellis received an offer from both schools and has accepted the position with Eclectic Elementary. Yea Jenn!!!

REMEMBER...
Once the Connors are home, our meal ministry will begin. Be thinking of something good you can make (or buy) that will be a treat to this family.

June 28- We will be joining with the Pathfinders Sunday School class for fellowship and Bible study.

Be thinking of a good time for a fun fellowship...Obed wants a cookout!!!

Hope you all have a blessed week. Be a blessing to someone! Smile, give a kind word or lend a listening ear!!

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

June 7, 2009

The Love Dare Bible study is complete. I hope you all learned more about yourselves, your spouses and your marriages over the past 8 weeks. Take what you have learned and try to apply it daily. Never forget to let your partner know how special they are and how much you love them! Thank God for them daily!!

PRAYER REQUESTS:
Sam Hays Family- he passed away after prolonged liver illness. Please remember his family as they lay him to rest and then try to find a new normal.

The Mills Family- still trying to put the pieces back together after the loss of Lydia Grace. Please remember her parents as they transition back home and will have to take apart the nursery. I can not imagine how many emotions they must be feeling. Pray for comfort, peace and strength.

Buddy Ingram- Laura Beth's father; has to travel a lot with work. Please pray the the Florida position will be filled soon so that he will be able to stay at home more. His travels are also hard on Laura Beth's mom.

Gerald Bittle- Jenn's dad; fell and had to be off work and now has other complications he has had to take a second leave from work for. Please pray for him and for Jenn's mom as she cares for his needs. Pray that they too will feel the Lord's comfort.

Jenn Ellis- had 2 job interviews this week. Please pray that God would make His direction for her career obvious and that child care options will come easily. Please pray for a smooth transition for both Jenn and Troy (Obed, too).

VBS-workers, leaders and the children attending. Pray that souls will be saved.

PRAISES:
Evan's Dr. appointment at Children's went well. No glasses. He will begin yearly eye exams at 3 years of age.

Hope you all have a wonderful week. Continue to think and pray about areas where you can serve the Lord. Ask, listen and make yourself available to respond to His call.

Monday, June 1, 2009

Sunday School Social!






















We had a great time of fellowship and food at the Catfish House this past Friday night! Sunday School Socials are so much fun!!!

May 31, 2009

What a wonderful class we had this week!Thank you so much for attending and participating in great discussion!Pray for your marriage, for your spouse and for yourself. Pray that God may reveal areas where you need some extra work! Try to take the things we learned this week and forgive one another in areas where we may fall short.

PRAYER REQUESTS:
Mills family- Baby Lydia Grace passed away and was buried. Please remember this family as they transition and try to move forward. Please pray that the Lord will lead people to their path that will encourage and lift them up. This will be difficult to move past, but with God's guidance and love, it is possible. Pray for God's peace and reassurance.

Connor family- Sweet Baby Girl is on the way and will be here before we know it! Please remember Tonya, Bobby and Drew as they prepare in the final weeks! Please pray that Tonya will be able to rest as much as possible these next few weeks and that Drew will handle the transition from being the only child to the big brother well.

Evan Talley- will be going to see the Opthomologist (?spelling) on Friday for his lazy eye. Please pray that whatever treatment is needed to correct the problem will be easy for him. Please pray for traveling graces as we travel to and from Children's in Birmingham.

Vacation Bible School- begins June 8th. Please be in prayer for the children who will be attending, the volunteers who are spending their time to teach the children about God's love, for the parents who are entrusting their children to our church workers, for Charles and the VBS leader who are guiding this weeks journey and most importantly that God's will be done through next week's VBS. This coming week is the biggest evangelistic opportunity we are given to reach out to children. Many come to know Jesus through a VBS experience. PRAY, PRAY, PRAY!!!

ANNOUNCEMENTS:
We have been given a Proverbs Chapter-A-Day Challenge for the month of June! You are challenged to read, think about and pray over one chapter of the book of Proverbs each day. This will help us to become better grounded for our daily devotions! Pray for one another that we will be up to the challenge and that we will not grow weary in our attempts with daily quiet time with the Lord.

Saturday June 6, all ladies of our class are invited to a canvas art party at the Talley home. The brunch begins at 10 am. Leave your husbands and children at home, bring $20 with you, come for fun, food and fellowship and leave with a one of a kind masterpiece that you create all on your own. No art experience needed! If you know you are going to be able to join in on the fun, please email me at bama1fan7582@yahoo.com.

PRAISES:
Welcome Ellis family! We are so glad to have you officially part of the First Baptist Church Family! Please be in prayer for the Ellis family as they find their place in the church and search for opportunities to further serve God.

During the 3 day VBS held in Centreville (my hometown, my parent's church) there were 17 professions of faith! Praise the Lord! Please pray that these children will continue to grow in their walk with the Lord!!

I pray that you all have a wonderful week! We hope to see you on Sunday!! Don't forget to lift one another and our class up in prayer this week! Take time to talk to Jesus with your spouse!!