Saturday, March 28, 2009

jonah - saturday, march 28th

Another great day for Jonah! Ever since I asked you guys to pray for Jonah at 8pm, his dressings have gone great! We had all four limbs and his torso dressed and his hair washed in an hour and 45 minutes. To you EB moms out there, that probably sounds ridiculously long, but for us that's awesome. We're still getting the hang of things. :) That's down from about 3 hours when the doctors and nurses first started doing them - of course he's improved a lot since then too.

Thank you for your continued prayers. Jonah continues to blow our minds with his improvement. Although he gets new blisters everyday, the healing of his skin amazes us. He looks about 1,000% better from the day he was born, and actually has skin colored toes and fingers. His arms are looking awesome, and his legs are getting better too!

He's so beautiful. I can't get over it. I was up in his room tonight and looking at his bassinet in our room and his swing in the living room, and I just can't believe we FINALLY get to bring a baby home. It just seems too good to be true. And it's not just ANY baby. It's Jonah. Strong, sweet, beautiful Jonah. I love everything about him. He's absolutely perfect. And God gave him to US. Amazing.


One of Jonah's diapers - new and improved!



Night Night hugs
Clean, curly hair

106 comments:

Erin said...

He is looking wonderful! His progress is AMAZING! God is good!

Shannon from Mn said...

oh my goodness, he is so beautiful... god bless you baby Jonah. It is hard to believe that he is coming home in a day and a half!! Yipeee..........
Shannon from Mn

kathunt said...

He is so beautiful. We are truly happy for you & your husband.
GOD IS GREAT!!!

Misty Rice said...

This post brought a HUGE smile to my face tonight. Oh such words and pictures can make my heart so warm. He is going home..... YEA!!!!! And he IS beautiful. Want to eat him up.

God Bless...and keep the good news coming.

Thank you GOD!

Dressed-Up Dots said...

He is glorious and God is good...my heart is smiling and I am praising The One who is responsible for it all right along with you! Blessings, love, and prayers from North Carolina!

Tribulation said...

ohh just give him a kiss for me when you see him again. he looks so sweet. I just know Jonah is gonna pull throgh this and totally surprise everyone. * because that is how God works lol* sometimes it seems that things happen like this to get us to realize that every minute is precious and we need to cherish everyone. try not to look at this as a disability but rather an opportunity to take as much care as you can. i know sometimes i have rushed my time with my kids because of stupid things like im tired or i need a break, but now i look back and wonder where did it all go? you and matt have a great blessing on your hands. sure it will be different from the average but lets face it the avereage is all that great. sorry i know i am rambling. it all sounds so good in my head lol, but i cant seem to get to come out the right way. i guess what i am trying to say is enjoy him. every minute. i know i dont have to tell you that but i can already tell how special he is and how great you are. anyway, good night and many prays for jonah's safe journey home.

anna said...

oh my goodness!!! he is a cutie!! my favorite picture is the first one posted tonight. so adorable!!! i just found your blog a few days ago, and i am hooked! what an amazing story you have, and a beautiful miracle!!!

Susana said...

Patrice, these are the best, most beautiful, sweetest pictures you have posted of Jonah so far! He looks so wonderful and so much improved! I am so happy for you and for Monday! Can't say it enough. His hair is adorable. Speaking of hair, you cut yours too didn't you? You both look great, well and happy. As always continued prayers and so much love to the 3 of you.

Cathy said...

He looks so wonderful! I keep thinking he has such an "old and wise" look about him already. I think he's going to really do great at home. Praying for you all.

Kat and Crew said...

He's so precious!! Still thinking and praying for yall.

Tiffany said...

He looks wonderful!!! He is soo cute, congrats on bringing your sweet Jonah home, we are praying for you guys...
Tiffany in TN

Krista said...

You are both so beautiful I have tears in my eyes! He is perfect and you are so blessed. Congratulations and thank you for allowing us to know you and pray for you!

Rachael said...

He looks so handsome!! I love that picture of you and Jonah! You look so happy and he looks so peaceful! I can't wait for you to get him home!! I know you must be so excited!! I am praying for little Jonah!

Toni :O) said...

God bless you...he's beautiful and he looks as though he's doing so great...must be all of the love and snuggles from Mommy and Daddy! Best wishes to you both bringing that sweet boy of yours home on Monday. Have fun and enjoy the ride...it's an amazing and joyful one and I just know he's going to continue to do well...I have faith! :O)

kimmie said...

geez how CUTE. my 11 week old daughter, Natalie, is totally going to want Jonah to take her to the prom in seventeen-or-so years :)
~Kimberly (Randolph) Waller

Anonymous said...

I have been crying over the computer for the past two hours reading the blogs of another mother. Thankfully, following through with my nightly ritual, clicked the link to your page. Praise God for healing! I just want to thank you for allowing me to "enter" your life and see a glorious side of our Savior. For living your faith in a very real way and allowing God to use your family for His purpose. Your story has rocked my world and brought me closer to Jesus. I praise God for you...

Danielle @ Living Out Loud said...

WOW!!!! Jonah looks great! So happy that you get to bring that sweet baby home soon!

MiniMe Mom said...

Wow, he is a cutie pie!

I just caught up on your blog, and what a journey it has been! I am so thankful Jonah is going home with you on Monday. So happy for you guys, praying for a smooth ride!

Anonymous said...

He looks absolutely PERFECT and so ready to come home and be in your arms all day long!!! We spent some family time tonight praying for Jonah and Stellan, and prayed again before putting Casey to bed. And at church tomorrow we're letting people know to be praying for him as he heads home on Monday. Lots of prayers from this part of the US! And I'll be mailing the diapers to you Tuesday; had to wait for something else that will be coming with them! Love you all!

........ said...

What an adorable little angel! Still praying daily...

Janel said...

HOW CUTE IS HE!!!! That first picture is just so precious - I just want to eat him up!!

He really does look fantastic and I am so glad that his bandage changes are getting better and quicker! The mepilex lite and transfer really make bandaging easier and faster! I LOVE the stuff!

Speechless said...

He is so adorable. It is amazing to see how much God has done in the last month. I'm so excited Jonah is getting to go home.

This IS The Fun Part! said...

What a beautiful scene for me to have in mind as I finally go to bed! Been feeling a little blue all day - but this has really brightened me up!

I just know that you two are going to be the best parents ever and that Jonah has been given to you for a very special reason!

Still Praying!
Grannie in Florida

Sara Denslaw said...

I think 45 minutes is AWESOME!!

Mary Dunbar said...

He is so sweet, I just want to snuggle him. =)

Patricia said...

I've just become acquainted with your blog and your story. How precious your little boy is. I love the pictures. I'm so happy to hear you will be bringing him home. May the Lord continue to give you strength and grace. I read your previous post about forgiving those who have hurt you. It was excellent. I know how difficult it can be.

Kristie said...

I remember when you first posted the pictures of him.......wow what a great improvement. I told you then he has a mission here on earth and I will say it again...JONAH HAS A MISSION HERE ON EARTH, GOD KNOWS WHAT IT IS, and it will be awesome. Take good care of Jonah even on them tiresome days and nights when he is screaming his head off thank god that he can even scream and cry cause there is some that can't. That is how I would look at things in the middle of the night when I was up with my baby that has seizures{{GOD IS GOOD}.

Sorry for the long post.

Take care,
Kristie

Amie said...

What beautiful pictures! And what an amazing journey this has been. Jonah is SO blessed to have you as his mom and Matt as his daddy. Of course God knew you were the best parents for this special and wonderful baby! Praying for your homecoming. May it be as happy and joyous as I know it will be!

Becky said...

I recently came across your blog, and have been touched by your story. As a mom of 4, including one with medical issues, I tear up when I think of all that little Jonah has endured in his life so far, and what it might be like as a mom. I have been praying for you all every time it pops into my mind, especially around 8 pm. I feel an overwhelming sense of love that our Heavenly Father has for both you and Jonah. You are an amazing family, and I look forward to checking back in and seeing the progress he continues to make.

Becky in Ohio

The Van Ordens said...

God is good! Jonah is the cutest thing ever! So happy he he is coming home! We continue to lift you all up in prayer!

Michelle in Va said...

Praise God!! Jonah is so cute. He does look so good. He is so ready to go home with his amazing mommy and daddy. I am so thrilled that tomorrow is the big day. I know it will be a great blessing to have sweet Jonah home and tuck him into his own bed. The God we serve is truly amazing. Praying continually for Jonah and your precious family. Thanks be to God. God is so good!!! Happy Homecoming Jonah

blog said...

tomorrow, patrice! you get to bring him home TOMORROW! Shawn, Jude, and I have been counting down the days, and we're so excited! He looks amazing, friend, his improvement is astounding and so encouraging. I know you're going to have your hands full for awhile after you guys get Jonah home, but when you're ready for a playdate (or some "leaving the kiddos with daddies so mommies can chat over coffee time), let me know. :)

Desha said...

I love the pictures. It always does my heart good to see his beautiful face and those curls are adorable! Is there going to be any special things you need as he comes home? Also, is he able to wear regular clothes? I saw the cutest outfit yesterday that I wanted to pick up for him as a welcome home gift, but didn't know if he had to have special material for his skin. I am so excited for you, I can't stand it!

Anonymous said...

PRECIOUS! God is good!
daisy

Anonymous said...

Yea for a less than 3 hour bandage change! I am glad that his hands and feet are growing skin!

Dana

Jackie said...

He is absolutely BEAUTIFUL!

Unknown said...

Awwwww... Isn't he so precious!!! I am so excited that you get to bring him home soon!!!

Blessings!

Alyson - Mommy to Evan and Avery (severe PPHN)

p.s. Thank you so much for sharing your story!! It truly is a beautiful and miraculous one!!

Zack Troop said...

Woohoo on the shortening time! Wound care is a looong process for us so that is great. I also wanted to tell you good job on getting him circumsized. You will be glad down the road.
Tomarrow is the big day and we are so happy for you!
KaDee

Anonymous said...

I am sooo happy that you get to bring little Jonah home on Monday!!!! Can I just say he is soooooo darn cute and those baby blues it looks like hes gonna have!!! Oh my....he is just precious and his skin is looking fabulous. My kids and I have been praying for little Jonah since I found your story through MckMama. You keep the faith girl. God is blessing you in mighty ways. Jonah is just a complete, sweet miracle and we are just in love with that little guy! Thanks for sharing this journey with us and just know you have so many people praying! Love, Becca from Arizona

Em said...

Praying for your first day at home tomorrow!

j3k said...

You both look absolutely amazing together :) God bless you both and I can't wait see pictures of him at home in all of his "home things"!!

Hearts and Hugs
Marie

momma said...

he looks so gorgeous! i ♥ the curly hair and big eyes!!!

Melissa said...

He is beautiful...and I love that diaper...too cool! Congrats on getting to come home tomorrow!!!

rameelin said...

He looks great Patrice! He is starting to look like you so much! His little sleeping pictures are precious and priceless! I bet holding him close like that feels sooo amazing! I'm so proud of you and I cant believe the day is here when you are taking him home! I'm thinking about you guys and praying still!

The Quiet One said...

Glad he's making such great progress.

Molly said...

he looks FANTASTIC! and oh my goodness those eyes. gorgeous

jenny304b said...

Jonah is a beautiful little boy and a beautiful miracle. We are so excited for you that he's going home tomorrow! Always sending love and prayers.

Shannon said...

Do I see a slight smile in the 1st picture? Oh, he is just beautiful!!! I love him so and continue to pray for his continued healing!!!!! Cant wait for you to get him home!!!

Brooke and David said...

He's beautiful and he looks wonderful! So glad to hear you are bringing your sweet baby home! Prayers still be sent up!

Tammy said...

He is so so precious! Still praying in Indiana

Rebecka said...

He is beautiful. I wish you the best of luck when you take him home.

Jolene said...

That is great news! We will continue to pray. Baby Jonah looks great!

Unknown said...

I love seeing him snuggle with his mama! I think he looks a lot like you. What a beautiful child. I'm so glad Jonah made his way into my heart. Thanks for sharing him with us.

Praying for Jonah in Ga,

Ashley

Tara said...

Jonah is absolutely beautiful! I am so happy that he is going home with you tomorrow.. What a wonderful day for your family!!

Stacie said...

those are beautiful pictures! i am so glad to hear things are going well. with prayers for your homecoming...

Channe said...

What a cutie pie!!!! Tomorrow's the big day!

LisaShaw said...

PRAISE THE LORD! He is more and more adorable each day. I rejoice with you and your husband Patrice for the precious life of your son. Enjoy him and I stand in agreement for his complete healing and restoration in Jesus Name. God's will be done.

Anonymous said...

What an absolutely beautiful baby! I don't know what you guys think, but I think he looks JUST like his mommy!

lisavengesta said...

jonah is gorgeous!! i love the picture of you holding him :) may God continue to bless you guys ((hugs))

Just Believing said...

He is so beautiful and so perfect in every way!

Nancy said...

He is such a cutie patootie! My baby, Noah and I pray for him at every nap time and bedtime. I am so happy he is doing better and goes home tomorrow!

Anonymous said...

I think Annie said it best, "Tomorrow, tomorrow, I love ya tomorrow, it's only a day away!!" We're excited for you getting to bring Jonah home. I can only imagine that you all will be much more comfortable there! Even with all that encompasses caring for him, there's just something about being at home. He is so cute and we're praying for you all.

Jon and Andrea Hauser

Anonymous said...

I love the pictures of Jonah and the one where you are looking at the camera is wonderful. He is looking better and better isn't he? :) My spirit is happy and I'll keep praying for he, you, Matt, and for others involved. May God continue to give you strength for each day. - Jared

Cristi said...

Wow precious pictures. His face is looking awesome. Still in our prayers and- You won an award. Maybe it will bring a couple of extra prayers your way. Check my blog to see it.
http://cristi-jesusis.blogspot.com/
Have a great day!

Jalita* said...

He has such kissable cheeks!! I know you love 'em. He is precious, and glad to hear good news from you!

Lauren said...

I don't even know you and I can tell that you are a wonderful mom! We had to leave our twin girls in the NICU for 5 and 10 weeks so I know that "not right" feeling of having an empty house even though you have a baby. Praise God that Jonah is coming home and he can fill all of the baby equipment you have. Still praying for your family!

Tara said...

Ah what great photos, and what a praise that his 8pm dressings are going well! I too, will be praying at that time for you all. Happy Homecoming tomorrow!!!
Hugs from Iowa!

Stephanie said...

How do you not just EAT HIM UP!?!?!
ooooh, he is just gorgeous and CUTE, Cute, Cute!!!

I am so thankful for every little step forward.
God is so good.
My boys pray for him a lot. They just love him!!
You are doing it, Patrice! You are walking on the water... and the world is watching. Incredible faith on display for all to see.
May God bless your family's socks off! ;)

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful and perfect little sweetheart. I have been following your blog for about a week now after a prayer request came my way. I can't tell you how uplifted I am by how one little boy can bring so many people together in prayer. He will continue to be in my prayers, especially during the bandage changings. He has made such amazing progress since your journey began. I know you can't wait to get him home and be able to love on him all day long. God's blessings to all of you!

Becky H - North Carolina

Mary said...

Wow, he looks terrific!! And reading about your wonderful Jonah is making me consider the name for my soon-to-be-born baby :). Can't wait to see pics of his coming home!

RLR said...

I was on my way home from a weekend trip today, thinking about Jonah's trip home TOMORROW. I am so excited for your family! Jonah looks wonderful. Thanks for sharing the photos. Prayers as always - RLR

Erin Edwards said...

I LOVE the new pictures! Gorgeous:) Would you like to try the type of cloth diapers Ethan was able to use? I'm not sure if they are what would work for ya'll, but everything else we tried rubbed his skin off. They are swaddlebees all in ones with snaps if you want to look them up. I am so excited for you tomorrow!

Jane said...

Loved the pictures Patrice, he is adorable and I know you can hardly wait to get him home. Prayer is powerful and people from all of the world have been praying. It is awesome how Jonah has brought so many together and that is what the world needs right now. I am so glad the bandaging is improving. I am sure with time, you will have it down to less time than that. My thoughts and prayers continue without ceasing for Jonah, you and Matt and tomorrow the transition goes well. Looking forward to hearing all about it.

kejenn said...

He is a beautiful baby boy. I'm so excited that y'all get to take him home!

Shay said...

You're son is precious! Absolutely adorable! I pray for him all the time.

Anonymous said...

We are so excited for you and Matt and can't wait to see pic's of Jonah in his new home. He is looking so good and so BIG, I can't believe how much he has grown in just a month. We love you guys are praying for a smooth day tomorrow. By the way...your hair looks really good, did you get it cut? Love!

Nathan, Lindsey & Mason

Alisha said...

He looks absolutely beautiful!

cookfam said...

I came to your blog through another..and I am so glad I did! Jonah is truly a miracle! He looks so good and I am so happy that he continues to improve, daily! You are an awesome mother and I am so glad that I was led to your blog!! You and your family are in my prayers!!

Georgia said...

What a gorgeous little boy! I am friends with the Runyons and have been following Jonah's story! I was so happy to see he was home! We continue to pray for you from Florida!

Claire said...

What gorgeous pictures! I'm praying for you guys!

Cxx

Angie Davis said...

i love, love when i see pictures of you holding him. i can't imagine the urge you have to hold and kiss him all the time, and to squeeze him tighter than you are able. i'm praying that those hugs will become often, long, and filled with joy. especially when you have him home

goodness, he is so cute! i love seeing the curls!

Anonymous said...

Many prayers for Jonah's safe homecoming and a relaxing couple of days for you all as one big happy family. Cute haircut for mom too! Thank you for keeping us posted on Jonah's progress. As you begin this new chapter in your lives, our thoughts and continued prayers are with you. Selfishly, I hope the journal entries continue, but if they are shorter because of Jonah's care (and lots of snuggles and baby stuff) we understand and will continue to lift you up through prayer. Dawn M. in MN.

Kirsten: said...

He is such a cutie!!!

jaime s said...

My goodness, he is precious! I love the pics of you two together! What a blessing Jonah is to you and what a blessing you are to Jonah! I love how God does that!

marines jackson said...

I am praying for him every day, He is so beautiful. Lord is love and he loves him.
Each day God made us stronger and, the good news is that this make us more happier.
GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY !

The Sweetest Things said...

oh goodness what a beautiful little sweetie.
This is my first visit here so you can imagine I'm in tears of your story.
I will keep you all in my prayers daily. May the Lord bless you always.
Love and hugs to you and God Bless.

Kim from San Antonio, Texas said...

Oh, he is just so precious. I wait so eagerly every night to see his recent pictures. He is looking so grown up now and looks so much like his loving mommy! I am just so excited tonight to know that he will see his home for the first time tomorrow. Blessings to you all!

Roxy said...

First time here...prayers and praise to you and your little one!
May GOD continue to bless your family!

He's beautiful!!!!

Kristen said...

What a beautiful boy! I am so happy that he is coming home. I pray that the road ahead will be filled with more sweet memories blessed by Jesus.

Sandy Moore said...

Jonah is absolutely a heart breaker! HE IS BEAUTIFUL! I'm so happy to hear about the dressing changes. I know you and Matt can't wait to have him home. It will be such an exciting day for you tomorrow. I'll be in prayer about the transition and much much more for you and your family.
With Christlike Love,
Sandy Moore

nancy said...

Patrice your face says it all! You look so happy and you are just beaming! I got "chill bumps" looking at these new pics! Jonah, OMG, could there be anything any cuter? I think not!
You are the first thing I think about when I open my eyes each morning and the last thing at night.
Monday, Monday, so good to me!
Looking forward to the pics of this amazing family all home together! I am crying just writing this because I am so overjoyed with, I don't even know the exact words, maybe it's Jonah, Patrice, Gabe, home, family, health, GOD, just one big combination of all of them! I didn't mean to leave Matt out, you too:)

Love and prayers,
Nancy Lee:)

Thrifty Decor Chick said...

He is a beautiful, beautiful boy...I'm going to go kiss my boy tonight...

Patty said...

I have to tell you that your post today brought tears to my eyes! I first read your blog around the time Jonah was born but somehow lost track of your blog and was brought back here today. I am so happy for your family that you'll be bringing Jonah home soon! He looks great in his pictures and I'm so happy to see that he is doing well. Congratulations and best wishes to you and your husband!

Sent with Love from California!

Stephanie said...

He looks absolutely amazing!!!! I'm so happy to hear that his skin is getting better :) Tomorrow's the big day!!! YAY! Praying for Jonah tonight!

Marissa said...

Tomorrow's the day! I've been following your story and I am so happy for you guys! :)

Susan said...

I am SO VERY HAPPY for you. Taking your beautiful little boy HOME where he belongs. It must be the best feeling on earth! May THE ONE continue to bless you, walk beside you, lift you up, carry you, and guide you.

I just love looking at Jonah- he is adorable...but that's nothing you don't already know :)

Will be praying for you Monday that everything goes as planned and you spend your first night at home together as a family.

(((HUGS)))

Susan in Indiana
www.mycollinsfamilyblog.
blogspot.com

Jennsmere said...

Such a beautiful little guy! He is such a joy....thanks for sharing the pics!!
Bless you!
Susan

Anonymous said...

I have been reading up on this blog and all I have to say is "WOW". I have been crying and crying....sometimes for sadness sometimes for anger and sometimes for happieness. I do not know you and your family but you can count on me and my family to be praying for you and that sweet little boy. And what a great name by the way.

purejoy said...

he is one beautiful baby!! and you are one special mommy. thanks for sharing your heart so willingly.
blessings to you as you begin life, for real, as a family.

Nicole said...

What a beautiful baby boy. Praying and rejoicing for you today as you bring him home. God is SO good!

Shaina said...

He looks fantastic!! What a gorgeous baby. :D I hope he gets the all-clear to go home tomorrow! Blessings on your family!

Angela said...

He is so cute! My prayer is that he keeps getting better.

It Is Worth It said...

He looks like you :) We are praying for your requests! Praise God from whom all blessings flow :)
Heather

Mama10EE said...

I am amazed at how GOOD his face looks and I pray that his little body is healing that well. He's so gorgeous, those eyes are great! Praying for you today as you make the BIG transition home! Congrats Mama and Daddy.

Vonda said...

Oh my word...he is such a cutie patootie! We are still praying like crazy for your sweet little boy!

Amy said...

What a handsome little man.
Your faith is inspiring.
Blessings and welcome home!