tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55163608639552308172024-02-27T04:35:45.987-08:00#SparkmanStrongOn April 29, 2014, my husband was the victim of a shooting at the FedEx facility in Kennesaw, GA. He was shot at point-blank range with a shotgun, and has fought to survive. This website is intended to keep family & friends updated, and to share some of our experiences and medical memories from the past two years.JamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.comBlogger83125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-85109751395716334902020-04-29T12:24:00.001-07:002020-04-29T12:26:04.144-07:00Alive Day 2020<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieO5g5nqM4MJR9ZvvnrPqtBXqz9saLDYb4o41eYzUFjA1eGkWg5CtceqUu03mJTvtuU5_nt2hqUBmQrrjkK9NkpAQ_8G322lwf9yFd3Q6AvXuwzyZ3Xea4zrDd9oiXgKTVPhv-0kQaVTw/s1600/unnamed-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieO5g5nqM4MJR9ZvvnrPqtBXqz9saLDYb4o41eYzUFjA1eGkWg5CtceqUu03mJTvtuU5_nt2hqUBmQrrjkK9NkpAQ_8G322lwf9yFd3Q6AvXuwzyZ3Xea4zrDd9oiXgKTVPhv-0kQaVTw/s320/unnamed-1.jpg" width="240" height="320" data-original-width="1200" data-original-height="1600" /></a><br />
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I woke up early this morning, and as the clock ticked closer to the well known minute he was shot six years ago, I held him tighter. Not willing to let go, I believed that if I held him through that moment, he could stay with me forever. Oh, how little have I learned in six years? <br />
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Chris has always had a heart for the eternal things - I've admired this about him greatly. In fact, the day before the shooting, as I stepped off of the West Ridge Church stage from leading a song called "Oceans", my husband jumped with joy at the certain assurance that He would one day experience eternity with Christ. He expressed, "I can't WAIT!" to which my mom said, "Yes, you can." I am not making that story up. God placed eternity on my husband's heart in the same way he was preparing me for the greatest purpose I've ever known.<br />
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Just 48 hours later, Chris was shot at point blank range with a shotgun in a workplace violence shooting. I recognize now that the greatest sacrifice Chris has ever made for me was choosing to fight for his life here, instead of letting the light fade and waking up immediately in the presence of God - pain-free, fully-known, fully-loved, forever. <br />
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Our trail of faith has not been easy but God has given us deep joy and moments of comfort. The surgeries have paused for now at 54, but I would be lying if I didn’t confess there has been discussion of more to maintain quality of life. As with most serious injuries, there will be no end to the chronic pain in this life...we will endure this together. There are losses we can not measure, and good gifts from God that we do not deserve. Life springs forth from death.<br />
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Elisabeth Elliot shares this story in her book "Keep a Quiet Heart" of a preacher from the 1800's named Ugo Blossi who wrote a sermon around John 15, describing with deep detail the process of the pruning of the vine. This particular line stood out to her, and not coincidentally me, as I reflect on this day that set in motion all of our days ahead. <br />
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"Measure thy life by loss instead of gain...Love's strength standeth in Love's sacrifice" - Ugo Blossi <br />
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"The life of the Vine is "not one of pleasure or of ease". Almost before the flower fades the fruit begins to grow, but instead of being allowed to grow where it will, it is tied immediately to a stake, forced to draw out of the hard hillside its nourishment. When "the fair shoots begin to wind and wave in the blue air, and feel how sweet it is, " along comes the gardener with pruning hooks and shears, "and strips it bare of all its innocent pride...and cuts deep and sure, unsparing for its tenderness and joy."<br />
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When the vine bends low with the weight of grapes, "wrought out of the long striving of its heart" the hands come ready to tear down the treasures of the grapes, the feet are there to tread them in the wine-press "until the blood-red rivers of the wine run over, and the land is full of joy." But the vine standeth stripped and desolate, having given all, and now its own dark time is come, and no man payeth back to it the comfort and the glory of its gift." <br />
Winter comes, and the vine is cut back to the very stem "despoiled, disfigured, left a leafless stock, alone through all the dark days that shall come" While the vine undergoes this death, the wine it has produced is gladdening the heart of man. Life springs forth from death - this the central message of Christ."<br />
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Wine poured forth from our trauma...<br />
- Recognition and respect for the sovereignty of God.<br />
- Deeper understanding of the Attributes of God. <br />
- The saving of many lives.<br />
- A strengthened marriage forged in the furnace of affliction.<br />
- Endurance...etc.<br />
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We will only know the true measure of this in eternity. <br />
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"Christ was forsaken, so must thou be too. <br />
Thou wilt not see the face or feel the hand.<br />
Only the cruel crushing of feet, <br />
When through the bitter night the Lord comes down<br />
To tread the winepress - Not by sight, but faith, <br />
Endure, endure - be faithful to the end"<br />
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So there it is. Eternity is now on my heart like never before. Does this mean I will have a near death experience tomorrow? I sure hope not. But I can't help but think the way Chris did - that our faith in Christ should prepare us to keep our eyes so fixed on Heaven that one day we just wake up there. So for now, I hold my husband tight and thank our Father, the giver of all good gifts, for giving me this precious man not once, but twice. <br />
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Happy Alive Day, Christopher. May my love for you be felt in the Heavenlies. <br />
JamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-32807148680123664932017-03-29T06:23:00.001-07:002017-03-29T06:23:32.041-07:00Home and RecoveringHello All!<br />
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It's an honor to share this good news with those who have been following our story...Chris is HOME and HEALING! We had another "side step" just before leaving when Chris fell in the hospital and fractured his T3 and T4 vertebrae. He was in a lot of pain. They kept him longer to monitor his head and spine. All seems slightly better now and he is walking more at home which helps with recovery. While the fall was disheartening, we kept thanking God that nothing upset his newly constructed bowels. He came home on about 20 medications so we have been a bit overwhelmed and trying to get a new schedule down. <br />
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The inflammation in his bowel has still not minimized to a point where he can eat anything other than liquids. He does have an ENORMOUS appetite (he craves Publix fried chicken, PB&J's, and chocolate milkshakes haha!) but sips of chicken broth and popsicles are all he can manage until the inflammation goes down more. They are going to do another CT scan in 3-4 weeks and we will see if he can incorporate more solids from there.<br />
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The doctors haven't talked about it in depth yet, but the next stage of recovery (when he eats) will be trying to get enough nutrition and maintain his weight with food and water. It will be incredibly difficult, but the goal for a young guy like Chris is to be off of the TPN and IV fluids. The diet is referred to as "low residue". I have been told that this process can take anywhere from three months to a year.<br />
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Keep you all posted after his next CT scan in a few weeks. <br />
<br />
Jamie Lynn and Chris Sparkman<br />
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JamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com69tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-43164707566013728852017-03-08T06:53:00.000-08:002017-03-08T06:53:24.209-08:00A slow miracle is still a miracle!It's been two weeks since the first CT scan, and another CT scan last week showed that the partial blockage was beginning to heal. Chris was finally put on a clear liquids diet over the weekend, and managed a few sips of broth and a bite of jello until he said he felt "Thanksgiving full". Baby steps!<br />
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Many ask about his spirits - although he is agitated by hospital life (pricks, beeps, nurses 24/7), he is happy to be moving forward. I've personally been able to witness hope light his face again. It feels like a gift. I watch him as we walk the halls and he believes - he <b>KNOWS</b> this is it. <b>He is healing. </b><br />
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Almost two years ago, we received the letter telling us of Dr. Galloways team from our now dear friends, the Petersons. We didn't know it then - but it would be another two years of trials until we felt the tiniest, first fruits of harvest. We are so grateful for the letters and cards that encourage us along the way. Without the kindness of strangers, I can honestly say we wouldn't be here today. <br />
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Keep you all posted! One month in the hospital already, the goal is for him to rehabilitate at home soon. This is still the very beginning of a long road where Chris will have to learn to live with what he has left. A challenge indeed - but one he will not back down from. God has brought us THIS far already... :)<br />
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With gratitude, <br />
Jamie Lynn<br />
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JamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-31865206552686283172017-02-24T06:55:00.000-08:002017-02-24T07:03:27.048-08:00The CT Scan. A corner has been turned. I remember talking about this corner when Chris was back at Kennestone. Always so close, and then thrown back into the pit after a leak in his bowel occurred. We are now walking in a direction of healing that we have never had the opportunity to go..that, very honestly, we were learning to look at life and feel Gods love for us with or without. <br />
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<b>Chris' CT came back showing that there were NO LEAKS in his newly reconstructed bowel. You heard right...no leaks.</b> <br />
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We kept talking to the doctor after the report, but her voice was fading. The weight of what was said washed over us, like a grand wave on a shore, drawing our shackles back into the water with it. Tears. Freedom. Hope. Life. There is still a long road ahead...but the miracle we were learning to live without has been given and we give thanks to Jesus for what has been done. <br />
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Christopher still can not eat or drink due to a lot of inflammation around the site that was repaired. However, the doctor said this can be expected and he will recheck with a CT in 7 days. Chris' rehabilitation after eating will involve learning how to live with short-bowel syndrome as well as therapies to get his back pain under control, etc. We all have about 600cm of small bowel, Chris has approx. 165cm of small bowel remaining, you can live with 80cm....it will be a change, but we're thankful for the opportunity to continue life together. <br />
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Thank you all for praying. This is a miracle. This is Jesus.<br />
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With love, <br />
Chris and Jamie Lynn Sparkman<br />
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JamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-85178415118360103862017-02-20T19:08:00.000-08:002017-02-20T19:08:07.331-08:00Day 10Today was the 10th day post-op. It's a milestone for us, as far as experiencing a "normal" recovery. However, today we have experienced what we hope is only a minor hiccup in the healing of his bowel. An X-ray showed that Chris has a blockage in what is left of his upper GI, which was signaled to us by him throwing up this morning. It was painful for him, but I do appreciate how the human body has a way of signaling for help when it needs it. It's possible it will clear itself, if it doesn't, they will insert an NG tube in his nose and access the situation from there.<br />
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I'll be doing a post soon of a timeline, so that the new readers can understand the big picture from April 2014 as well as a "refresher" for our friends who have been following this story from the beginning. <br />
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I will keep you all posted when we know more about this situation. I'll never forget what every trauma surgeon at Kennestone kept repeating to me after he was shot and survived the first 72 hours...they said this was a roller coaster, and to expect highs and lows. You think we would be used to them by now. I don't think you ever really get used to the fear of everything falling apart...<br />
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But that's not going to happen this time. Positive thinking, positive thankful prayers. <br />
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Will update you all soon. <br />
- JLJamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-20977922485671112232017-02-11T05:56:00.001-08:002017-02-11T05:56:37.791-08:00Surgery was successful, but with Chris there is always a "we'll have to wait and see" added on to the update. He truly is a medical mystery.<br />
The surgeon made the smallest incision on Chris' abdomen that they say he's ever made to repair the hole in his bowel. He only had to remove 5cm, which leaves Chris with somewhere around 165cm. (You need 80 to survive on food and not IV nutrition). Chris will spend years trying to figure out how to live life with short gut syndrome. I'm told it's a process.<br />
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The surgeon said the bowel felt much stronger than before due to the trial steroids he has been on since August. As tough as they were on Chris, we're hearing they paid off! The next 14 days are critical, so he is not taking visitors at this time. We will let you know when he can.<br />
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The theme we haven't been able to ignore with this surgery are all the "differences" God has shown us. I believe He wants us to break out of the enemy's stronghold of the "same old thing". (C.S. Lewis "The Screwtape Letters"). What a miracle we have watched unfold over the last 48 hours. More about this later.<br />
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With that said, please say a prayer for me because I went home last night feverish/achey/chills and I put my faithful trusty second string in - my mom. It was hard to leave his side, but I couldn't subject him to whatever has taken me down.<br />
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He is well looked after by family and Emory. I have a peace he will be watched with the eyes of an eagle in my absence.<br />
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-JL<br />
JamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-16021857101907807142017-01-29T09:07:00.003-08:002017-01-29T09:14:07.999-08:00The Road ContinuesIt is with a humble heart that I tell you all that Christopher will be going back into surgery on February 10th. This surgery will be similar to the last few, but there are many variances in Christopher's body (many not seen since before the shooting) that give our surgeon optimism and hope that this will be successful.<br />
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Many people have asked, "is this a good thing?" Well, yes. It's the path God has sovereignly asked us to continue, and He has promised absolute goodness for our lives. There will be relief. There will be healing. It's coming.<br />
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When I was contacted about the surgery, overwhelmed with confusion, I told my mom that I could not fathom another extended hospital experience. I was tired, and to see Chris in helpless amounts of pain again was something I have begged God to never experience again. She told me to look back at what God has done. Go back to the beginning of this story, and find His promises tucked inside those little miracles all along the way. (Thank God for moms)<br />
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So, I open the scrapbook, reread my own blog and journals...and Jesus fills us again with His immeasurable strength. We will be equipped.<br />
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I was reminded of this verse through Instagram this week (oh yes, God can use Instagram to speak to us) and I couldn't be more grateful for this Word to cling to during this time.<br />
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"We forget so easily. Remember, intentionally. And when your soul carries complaint, complain in the right direction."<br />
- Brooke Fraser Ligerwood<br />
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"I cried out to God with my voice<br />
And He gave ear to me.<br />
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In my day of my trouble I sought the Lord;<br />
My hand was stretched out in the night without ceasing;<br />
My soul refused to be comforted.<br />
I remembered God, and was troubled;<br />
I meditate within my heart, And my spirit becomes weak.<br />
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Will the Lord cast off forever?<br />
And will He be favorable no more?<br />
Has his mercy ceased forever?<br />
Has His promise failed forevermore?<br />
Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has He in anger shut his tender mercies?<br />
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<b>I will remember the works of the Lord; </b><br />
Yes,<b> I will remember Your wonders of old</b>.<b> I will also meditate on all Your work,</b><br />
And talk of Your deeds.<br />
Your way, O God, is in the sanctuary;<br />
Who is so great a God as our God?<br />
<b>You are the God who does wonders</b>;<br />
<b>You have declared Your strength among the people."</b><br />
Psalms 77:1-3, 6-9, 11-14JamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-86336012972034115652017-01-15T07:51:00.001-08:002017-01-15T07:51:34.587-08:00Preparing to Set Sail<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: start;">While we are waiting for the decision of the doctors, I wanted to share with you an excerpt from my journaling in anticipation of our lives changing soon. I pray God uses it to inspire someone else entering into the unknown...</span><br style="text-align: start;" /><br style="text-align: start;" /><span id="docs-internal-guid-e886cd97-a2c6-f760-2ef2-d0e548221cff" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">"I can pray for our sails to be set a certain direction, and I do, but ultimately my spirit accepts this reality best when I acknowledge that whatever direction I am taken by the Wind, it is to be accomplished by getting through one wave at a time. </span><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To further the sailing metaphor, there is a beautiful island waiting for our arrival one day. We will coast up the sand, step out of the boat into the sparkling blue waters, and walk hand-in-hand up to the warm, soft sand. We will take a deep breath - look back at the waters we tread all those years - and thank God for His grace and deliverance. While we acknowledge the major moments, we simply won’t be able to count all of the miracles, as they have been like the depths of the ocean - <b><u><i>immeasurable</i></u></b>."</span></span></span></div>
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<br />*The art is from an artist named <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/shellieartist" target="_blank">Shellie Mitchell</a> I discovered on Etsy. I love her work, and I hope you do too.<br /><br />JamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com231tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-21089974408439986862016-12-07T08:42:00.002-08:002016-12-31T06:35:11.869-08:00In the Waiting...Hello!<br /><br />Chris and I hope you all had a blessed Christmas season. We read through an advent book on anticipating the arrival of our King. A miracle. We both read in amazement as they waited for their miracle, just as we wait for ours. <br /><br />After the fistula plug was denied in November, the doctor gave us one more opportunity to try the fistula plug procedure. Chris went back on a medication that is supposed to give him the best chance to become a candidate. Although, the side effects of the medication are awful (nausea, severe cramping, etc.) I was told I would hear from the doctor by Jan. 10th. If he is still not approved for a fistula plug, it appears surgery will be the next best option in the early Spring. <br /><br />I will keep you all posted, promise!<br /><br />Chris was home for Christmas and the time with family has been so memorable. His grandparents came to visit this Fall, which was nice since we can't travel to them. The dogs love having their daddy home because he is a constant cuddle buddy for them. Chris and his pittie are attached at the hip. :) <br /><br />Even with home health nurses, the wound care can be emotionally and physically draining for us.(For the new people reading, a hole in Chris' bowel empties stomach acid and the contents of his small bowel into a bag on his skin that is changed daily bc it's so painful). As you can imagine, we wait with anxious anticipation for the doctors next words!<br /><br />Please pray that we would be hopeful and patient with the anticipation of God's promises in the next year. Thank you so much...<br /><br />- Jamie Lynn<br />JamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-30107152993349322792016-11-11T16:21:00.002-08:002016-11-11T16:21:37.359-08:00Hello friends,<br /><br />Christopher and I wanted to let you all know that he went in for the fistula plug procedure on Thursday but unfortunately, due to the wound changing in the month since the original imaging, they had to abort the surgery and the radiology team does not recommend the plug for successful healing at this time.<br /><br />We are going to see his surgeon next week, where we will process through what Chris' options (or rather lack of) are to complete his healing, and bind up the last leak in his bowel.<br /><br />Chris is disappointed - who wouldn't be? We are looking forward to hearing more from the team at Emory. Of course, I will keep you all posted. God is still good.<br /><br />Be well and love each other deeply.<br /><br />
- Jamie LynnJamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-80919218286594610172016-09-15T13:40:00.000-07:002016-09-15T13:45:35.705-07:00"Home is Wherever I'm With You"Dear Friends -<br />
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A blog post is long overdue. You all are so caring and your messages are encouraging to us. Are we really entering the Fall?! (well, at least calendar wise but not temperature wise). Man, it is HOT outside.<br />
<br />
Christopher was sent home from Emory at the end of August for another stent of "bowel rest" at home. It's interesting that it's called rest, because with a small-bowel fistula and the pouch changes it can be quite busy and intimidating. He's on a new, cutting edge medication and we are already seeing signs of healing. Small, baby steps lead to big changes! He has had some good days, and of course we try our best to make memories for him where we are.<br />
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He will go back into the hospital at the end of September. There is a CHANCE that he will be eligible at that point for a non-surgical, non-invasive procedure. If he is not (it depends on what his bowel looks like), it will likely lead to additional surgery in the late Fall or early Winter. He still has just one bag left...but depending on how that scan looks, we come to a fork in the road once again. Please pray for the non-surgical path, it would be the most amazing miracle to not have to send him back to the OR, ever again.<br />
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I'll be back to update you all after we know more in October. Enjoy these "endless" days of summer...<br />
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With love and appreciation,<br />
Jamie Lynn & Chris<br />
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*Image from GoogleJamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-54566808556447676832016-08-17T06:48:00.001-07:002016-08-17T06:52:51.492-07:00It has been slightly over three months, and Christopher is still in the hospital after his mid-May surgery. He still has one bag left. <br />
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It seems surreal that my husband has been home a combined total of about 6 weeks this year. Two and a half years later, the shooting seems like it's becoming a distant memory, but the medical trauma? The surgeries? The pain. The loneliness. The nights apart? It's all still so real...and as far as we are aware, there is no end in sight. <br />
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The doctors have tried many methods to heal the leak in his bowel that came after his most recent surgery. It just hasn't happened, yet. I include the word "yet" because we have to continue to believe it. We will continue to pray for it. They will continue their attempts to heal it.<br />
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Chris and I have recognized a "gift" recently that we wanted to share with those following this journey. It's not a gift that can be unwrapped, or tied up in a pretty bow. It's a gift formed in the furnace of affliction. This gift is the comfort of being present with each other, day by day. It's not always like this, there is medication and stress that interfere with our true personalities most of the time - but today, it's sweet. It's real. It's right now. If you're a caretaker, you know this feeling. It's the gleam in an Alzheimer patients eye when you see a glimpse of them inside the fog, or when a child with autism makes eye contact...it's exhilarating to connect with someone on that level when you haven't been able to for so long. <br />
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The depth of our relationship is magnificent, and we both gain comfort and strength from holding hands and looking forward together regardless of what the mystery of this medical trauma holds for us this Fall...<br />
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We ask for your continued prayers as Jesus navigates this boat in these unknown waters just a little longer.<br />
<br />
With love,<br />
Jamie Lynn Sparkman<br />
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- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhoneJamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-54709687509298548062016-06-28T19:17:00.001-07:002016-06-29T06:36:55.001-07:00Today we had the victory of removing one more wound drainage pouch from Christopher's abdomen. This was such a big celebration for us because a month ago, there were six different holes on his abdomen where stool was coming out of the leak and into three separate bags. Chris was so happy today. I will never forget the look of HOPE on my soldier's face. May today remind us daily of God's graces, seen and unseen.<br />
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One bag left...<br />
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- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhoneJamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-49509357731955679022016-06-21T19:47:00.001-07:002016-06-21T19:50:10.972-07:00It's been a little over a month since Christopher's last surgery at Emory. After the discovery of the leak in his lower small bowel, we both experienced stages of anger, confusion, hopelessness and despair. Our spiritual journey took a deep dive, both together and separately...and with the support of faith, family, and friends we can once again give thanks for the grace and joy in our lives. Regardless of how long this road is actually going to be, there is always grace. There is always joy.<br /><br />Now, a month after the initial leak, we are watching a slow miracle unfold. The leak is beginning to close on its own. We both saw it...and for awhile, no one said a word because we are too scared to hope, too scared to let ourselves believe that this could heal. Slowly, our hope has been reawakened. The nurses and techs can't get out of Chris' room without him reading them a daily devotion and praising Jesus for his mercy in our lives.<br /><br />What changed? Our white-knuckled, clenched fists came down and our hearts cry was to feel the love of Jesus near. For the first time in two years, our view of God was based on truth and not on circumstances. <br />We realized; when everything is looking great, He loves us. When Chris' bowel leaks, He STILL loves us. Together, Chris and I continue to embrace the mystery of our God and His good, good plan for our lives. <br /><br />Chris still remains in the hospital where he is being treated medically with IV antibiotics, IV nutrition & hydration, woundcare, special medications that aid in the healing/sealing of the bowel leak, and more. <br /><br />Thank you for the continued letters, prayers, and messages of encouragement. They all come at divine moments, and move us to tears. <br /><br />- Jamie Lynn & Christopher <br /><br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br /><br />JamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-37307179099890648902016-05-27T18:11:00.001-07:002016-05-27T18:11:03.660-07:00**UPDATE**<br /><br />On our third marriage anniversary, post-op day 9, we found out Chris' lower bowel had a leak. We're heartbroken. We're angry. We're desperate. We are blindsided, again. <br /><br />There's a chance it will heal, a decent one. The process has begun to try everything medically possible. Chris and I have grieved this setback and are ready to go to battle again. No food, no water, more pain, and a lot of patience...<br /><br />I am staying away from social media websites in order to focus fully on our situation, and hopefully hear more from God about what He needs from us. I will keep you all updated on Chris' progress of course. <br /><br /><br />Love you all. - JL <br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />JamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-30443366917757900912016-05-17T18:12:00.001-07:002016-05-17T18:12:38.319-07:00Surgery #52Christopher's 52nd surgery was today and lasted about 11 hours. The doctors were able to get through it without taking out much more bowel. This is important because Chris can't afford to lose much more without compromising his nutrition for life. <br /><br />He is spending a few days in the ICU and will hopefully be brought out of his medically induced coma tomorrow at some point. It never gets easier to see him in this state - but we've learned when he is in THAT much pain - it truly is best. It's selfish to want to keep him awake through it. The surgery has an 80% success rate - pray the favor of healing flow from God. <br /><br />It's a rough road from here - but we are now headed in the healing direction again and we have found our "super strength" in the supporting arms of Jesus. Who is Jesus to me right now? He is that giant rock shielding me from waves of anxiety, doubt, and hopelessness. I won't be captive of traumatic memories this time around. We may not know if this is his final surgery, but I'll never stop ASKING God for this all to come to an end.<br /><br />Thank you for those that prayed. Keep lifting us up. He has a long night ahead, and I am by his side. <br /><br />- Jamie Lynn <br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />JamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-6993710744182114052016-04-23T08:51:00.000-07:002016-04-23T08:53:51.083-07:00Christopher Sparkman's Alive DayTwo years ago this coming Friday, our lives changed forever when Christopher Sparkman was made a victim of a shooting, and shot at point blank range with a shotgun by a FedEx employee in Kennesaw, GA. More trauma than we could have ever imagined has unfolded, and we are still so far from the finish line, but every step we are walking through together. There are many emotions we can feel as we reflect on this day - grief, anger, gratitude, regret...just to name a few.<br />
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When I asked my husband how he wanted to spend his "alive day" this year, he said something which inspired me and broke my heart at the same time - a rare feeling that I believe is the foundation for goodness and change in our hearts. <br />
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Chris wants to run.<br />
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If you had the pleasure of knowing my husband before the shooting, then you know how incredibly athletic he was. Actually, he was annoyingly athletic. He was the soldier in his battalion that would wake up BEFORE required PT, just to run a little more. He was the soldier that would run alongside those striving to do better. He was the best friend helping people lose weight. He was the husband that would drag me to a track after work and pushed me to run further and faster. He always gave 110% to anything competitive, and he was an adrenaline junkie who loved the wind in his face, the trail under his shoes, and an impossibly steep mountain ahead of him.<br />
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This Friday, April 29th, I wanted to invite anyone who has the ability to crawl, walk, or run...to run a mile for Christopher Sparkman.<br />
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Someone asked me recently what Chris needs right now. He needs encouragement. He needs to know you are there. He needs a reminder that he is not just another statistic from a shooting, but a SOLDIER who still has a lot of fight left in him.<br />
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One day Chris WILL run again. Will you run for him now?<br />
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Run for Chris this Friday. Wherever you are, whenever you can.<br />
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Happy Alive Day, Chris.<br />
- your Wife.<br />
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JamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-62827886506103907482016-04-16T20:35:00.001-07:002016-04-16T20:35:20.109-07:00Hello to All -<br />
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Chris has been home a little over a week, and we are adapting to home care once again. He is enjoying his time at home with me and the pups, but Chris and I count down the days (a little under a month) until his next surgery. He's had a few good days, and a few bad. The woundcare and the pain from the wounds is enough to make him pass out at times.<br />
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We count down the days as motivation to keep going. It's truly indescribable what we go through on a daily basis. We have been in "survival mode" well over a year, and our goal is to get Chris back to Emory and his GI working with one more surgery.<br />
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I don't post much about myself, but as many of you who have been a caretaker know, I don't get to be a "wife" very often these days. When he is home, "caretaker" means much more for me. Woundcare nurse, Pharmacist, Psychologist, Taxi, Physical Therapist, Maid, Infusion Nurse, Administrative Assistant, Legal Admin Assistant, Home Manager...etc. Chris tells me all of the time how proud and impressed he is of me, and it means so much to know he appreciates me. To the person who sent me the caretaker prayer info - thank you, MUCH appreciated.<br />
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Please continue to pray over Chris physically, myself mentally, and for our marriage in it's entirety.<br />
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Thank you for the encouraging messages. We read them, but can't always respond.<br />
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Until next time,<br />
Jamie Lynn<br />
<br />JamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-85640830260884939322016-03-24T07:33:00.001-07:002016-03-24T07:36:25.637-07:00<b><u>After five long months, the Emory team has concluded that more surgery is necessary to fix Christopher's GI tract.</u></b> After being sent home briefly for Christmas, Chris was admitted to the hospital again mid-January. These amazing doctors and surgeons have tried all that is in their medical grasp to bind the wounds, but it seems God is asking for everything we have and then just a little bit more...<br />
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<b><u>Yesterday, Christopher was allowed his first bite of food since November 2, 2015</u>.</b> Like a true southern man, he went for cheese grits and sweet tea. <b><u>The sacrifice he endured of not eating, due to a small chance of the leak healing without surgery, was one of the most courageous things I have ever seen him do.</u></b> Watching him take that first bite, even knowing it provides him no physical nutrition, put tears in our eyes that he was able to indulge in such a comfort that many take for granted everyday. We long for the day when food nourishes his body and mind once again.<br />
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We are fast approaching another anniversary of the shooting, and <b><u>our entire family still feels the weight of shock that two years later, we are still fighting for Chris to be able to eat, drink, and have a functioning GI tract. </u></b><br />
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As Chris and I read through the Easter story this week, we find our encouragement in the knowledge that <i>"it is finished"</i>. Jesus knows our story. He already knows the ending...all we have to do is love Him, trust Him, and put one foot in front of the other...<br />
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With love and gratitude,<br />
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C & JL<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib1PWGSnFypzBejmedfTYmCuTWTtYjvefRAz3-KFXhB_TNtDS1Hc_ms1DwQJtakubj1V-c33_y4zE56qIfLYobIEdN_cfZCFmEuZ3MZgte6F0K6a6yCVh97GEWqmjbdaDy__wRpgjOloE/s1600/7ea95169-4012-45a0-9f6a-cd29617036a7.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib1PWGSnFypzBejmedfTYmCuTWTtYjvefRAz3-KFXhB_TNtDS1Hc_ms1DwQJtakubj1V-c33_y4zE56qIfLYobIEdN_cfZCFmEuZ3MZgte6F0K6a6yCVh97GEWqmjbdaDy__wRpgjOloE/s320/7ea95169-4012-45a0-9f6a-cd29617036a7.jpg" width="320" /></a>JamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-62676813148026651732016-02-26T06:42:00.001-08:002016-02-26T06:45:51.138-08:00"Faithfulness in the Furnace of Affliction" Whether it's surprising or not, one of the most popular statements people have made to Chris & I through this trauma is, "I'm not sure I could do what you do." I wish I had found the following quote 2 years ago, but my answer has always been a simpler version: this is marriage.<br />
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"...because God gets the glory when two very different and very imperfect people forge a life of faithfulness in the furnace of affliction by relying on Christ." - John Piper, "This Momentary Marriage".<br />
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You accept it, you wake up, you live it. You root yourself in wisdom from the Word. Surround yourself with people to help you discern truth from lies, and keep going forward. All glory goes to God, because "this is what marriage is for ultimately - the display of Christ's covenant-keeping grace."<br />
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We are still waiting on the final word from Christopher's doctors, I will be sure to update you once we know for certain if he will need additional surgery. We should know something by the end of next week.<br />
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- JLJamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-50213524129192031102016-02-05T06:31:00.000-08:002016-02-26T06:42:06.689-08:00New Year Update Happy new year from Christopher and I. As I write this update, Chris and I are amazed it is February already. In just a few short months, we will be facing the second anniversary of the shooting at FedEx where my husband Chris (Allied Barton Security Guard) was shot in the abdomen by a FedEx employee at point blank range with a shotgun. Now, almost two years later, Chris still fights for his most basic needs.<br />
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So many of you have asked for an update, and I owe you one… although I wish I had better news to share. Christopher's wounds have healed significantly after the GI leak that happened last November after his 50th surgery, but they haven't healed enough to seal up. He's physically in a lot of pain, and mentally this is a lot on both of us.<br />
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Without going into graphic detail, the most important thing is this; we will know in the next 10-15 days whether or not Chris will be sent home to wait for another surgery in the spring. He has endured bags on his belly and acid on his skin for almost two years. Our precious family, along with the Emory Team, is desperate to see Chris healed without more surgery.<br />
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We are asking God for this miracle. Would you ask Him with us, in Jesus name? I will let you know more as we find out. <br />
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Thank you for caring about my family. Thank you for following Christopher's journey. - Jamie LynnJamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-34549336048558002572015-12-24T06:19:00.001-08:002015-12-24T06:19:54.772-08:00Yesterday, I was able to bring Christopher home for Christmas. After a long, exhausting discharge day - it was a gift to see him on the couch, just staring at the Christmas tree. Our pitbull wouldn't leave his side - a very sweet moment for us all.<br /><br />The most difficult thing we face right now is getting the leaks in his GI healed, which means Chris will have to endure another few months of no food/water and IV nutrition. We still pouch bags over drains and leaks, and will continue with woundcare. He's stronger, and wants to get well - but he does feel hunger, and this time of year, that can be pretty difficult.<br /><br /><b><u>You say You're good to those who wait, Lord.</u></b> We are believing that Christopher's body will be healed, and we can move forward with living the life that's been given.<br /><br />Today, Chris and I are reflecting on God's <b><i>grace</i></b> and <b><i>mercy</i></b> that came in the form of a baby so many years ago...and how God wakes us up with that <u>same</u> grace and mercy today, and everyday...<br /><br />From our family to yours...Merry Christmas.<br /><br />Love,<br />- Jamie Lynn & Chris<br /><br />JamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-72355768942730451172015-11-30T11:48:00.001-08:002015-11-30T11:48:31.945-08:00Many have asked for an update on Christopher Sparkman. He is still in the hospital. They are doing everything they can to give the bowel leak that 85% chance of healing. He is in isolation for safety with his wounds, and he does not eat or drink anything to help with healing (no more ice chips or popsicles). Chris has set his mind to do whatever it takes to come home without this leak. <div><br></div><div>One of our favorite things to do is take a "date walk" in the hall holding hands, although it's very difficult with the drain system on his belly. We've been watching Christmas movies, I put up a little tree, and I diffuse peppermint and other oils for him to make it smell "like home". </div><div><br></div><div>Although we wished he could have been home by now, we make it work - because that's what we do. He's alive and we continue to fight for that life. Hope this update helps. We appreciate you all, always. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8v1UbLxy1xWzPNpvuy7rJhy5yygzvs0Tw3PHH2sDriX1eLdvXpOzOLlrTax4LiUubAQ8aYchgbdQxKEVEZr4kmu0cfjx19IJsuSWFNZoEJBnt_ruIvbdN0GacfYc7DLujiAIgKugdCWk/s640/blogger-image--534282029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8v1UbLxy1xWzPNpvuy7rJhy5yygzvs0Tw3PHH2sDriX1eLdvXpOzOLlrTax4LiUubAQ8aYchgbdQxKEVEZr4kmu0cfjx19IJsuSWFNZoEJBnt_ruIvbdN0GacfYc7DLujiAIgKugdCWk/s640/blogger-image--534282029.jpg"></a></div><br></div>JamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-6579844928192615552015-11-24T17:38:00.001-08:002015-11-24T17:38:15.561-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Wx-Bbb-WgiHjQjbBzzWKRMgw6ON9Zf0Op1QfqFmXpM1r546kXJdBz4FbAQAM_X7NwaRvzT17IX6OOVkAskEYYGIiYTEV1c4cT3KULogccDjofYC59knoSJB7taMPphkmP7iNN8b-hn8/s640/blogger-image-1393660364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Wx-Bbb-WgiHjQjbBzzWKRMgw6ON9Zf0Op1QfqFmXpM1r546kXJdBz4FbAQAM_X7NwaRvzT17IX6OOVkAskEYYGIiYTEV1c4cT3KULogccDjofYC59knoSJB7taMPphkmP7iNN8b-hn8/s640/blogger-image-1393660364.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">First day outside in a MONTH! 10 minutes of sunshine and fresh air was just was the doctor ordered for today. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Chris still has a long road to recovery. He currently has a lot of drains and is still monitered closely. Doctors are hopeful the leak in his GI will heal on its own with time and no food/water. He is still on IV nutrition. Because he still feels hunger, the doctors have allowed him one popsicle a day. He was very excited about the popsicles! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">When Chris was deployed in 2012, he came home just before Christmas. It was the best surprise. I'm praying again to have my man home soon, hopefully before Christmas. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">- C & JL</div>JamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516360863955230817.post-37793033217351745412015-11-16T06:37:00.001-08:002015-11-16T06:38:30.532-08:00<div>There is no doubt, it's been a difficult week to get through. With Chris having a set back last week, you would think I'd be used to things not going as planned - but I'm not, I'm so not. It's still a trauma trigger, and it becomes difficult to navigate once the emotion sets in.</div><div><br></div><div>I was driving my 6 mo. nephew home last night in the car and he was hungry. He was crying and thrashing and desperately begging to be fed and held. He didn't understand why...but I was in the drivers seat, and I knew he was hungry but that he would be OK. We were on our way to get formula, it wouldn't be long...but he didn't know that. As I was thinking about this scenario, I smiled and thought how God was showing me a small glimpse of myself this week. I am the baby thrashing about my life in the car seat and God is the wise driver that knows I'm safe, and that we're on our way to our destination despite my discomfort. </div><div><br></div><div>Chris is doing better, but it's still a long journey ahead. One day at a time....today is good. We are resting.</div>JamieLouHoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06755737943631703779noreply@blogger.com1