Carmen is very, very comfortable. We are still alternating morphine and Ativan and she is more peaceful than we have ever seen her. It’s impossible to know when she will take her last breath but for today, she is here with us.
I, on the other hand, am completely exhausted. I think I could fall asleep standing up. I am getting enough sleep. It’s emotional exhaustion. My mom (who happens to be a psychologist) always says that when you are under extreme stress, your body shuts down what it can. I think half of my brain has already shut down.
Dave…well, he’s full of energy. Today, I asked him to please go get Hope because I was passed out on the couch. He said sure and danced to the stairs saying, “Woo hoo! I’m Richard Simmons!!!” We respond to stress quite differently. When Dave gets stressed, he tries to lighten things up.
***
A few weeks ago, before Carmen got sick, I finally finished choosing and photoshopping pictures of Carmen’s life. I wanted to have the pictures all ready so that when the time came to plan her funeral, it would be easy to quickly make a slide show. Dave is now putting together that slide show. So many memories!
April 2007
Love the image! And I am so happy you and Dave have each other. We continue to pray you all feel the peace and love of our Father surround you. It sounds like Carmen is fully aware of it, what a blessing that is.
Take good care.
Lana and Dave,
I can’t even imagine what you are going through. How is Lauren? I wish so much that I knew the right words to say to you. I continue to keep you all in my constant thoughts.
Diane
still praying!!!!!!!!!!!!! i know God is holding you even through the exhaustion! thinking of you in MS.
in HIS love and mine,
lynn <
Always lifting you all up in prayer, and sending lots and lots of love your way
Hang in there–praying for strength and energy for you–love you!
Praying for you all!
Lana…just wanted to let you know that you and your family are in our prayers each and every day.
Special prayers going to the throne room right now for a family and little girl who are PRECIOUS IN HIS SIGHT!!!! Love and hugs sent your way, and may “the peace of God which passes all understanding” reign in your hearts today and in the days ahead.
Steve and I are praying for you all with all our hearts. Please let me know if I can do anything for you… love, Wendy
What a beautiful smile, I keep you all in my prayers every day. God love you, Joe
What a beautiful picture. I am so very sorry you guys are having to go through this. I pray you guys have more time with Carmen, but that when it is time for her to go to her heavenly home, there will be nothing but peace in your heart. xoxo
What an absolutely beautiful smile….definitely one I will never forget. Thinking of you and sending you all many hugs, Nicki (Angel Riley’s Mommy)
praying you through…
I don’t want to, but I can imagine the emotional roller coaster. Nothing is right with the world when babies die before parents. God Bless You ALL! I’m so happy to hear that Carmen is so comfortable.
Prayers, Hugs, and LOVE, Janet
Breaks my heart…no parent should ever have to make a slide show like that…praying for peace and comfort for all of you!
Praying for you and your family today and everyday. My thoughts are with you.
what a sweet photo, she is so precious! I’m glad Carmen is peaceful and comfortable. My heart just aches for your family. Praying and thinking of you continually.
Debbie
I have never written to you before, but I have followed your blog since before we brought our two beautiful boys home from Guatemala over two years ago. Your family is an inspiration, and after seeing Carmen’s beautiful photo, I had to write and let you know that there are so many lives she has touched–even from far away, Carmen has made a way into our hearts. Praying for your whole family,
Janelle in Missouri
still just praying ……praying for your whole family.
My heart is heavy for all of you. No parent should have to watch their child die. I have followed your blog for 2+ years and am inspired by your grace and dignity. Carmen was so blessed to have been placed in your arms. May Carmen continue to remain comfortable and may all of you be at peace.
What a beautiful picture! Know that I am still lifting all of you up in prayer. God bless you!
As you have taught us through these years and seasons, He is our Rock. The Lord is our Strength. Praise the Lord! Love you all…..
Carmen has touched so many people!! Keeping all of you in my prayers. HUGS!!
I have been following your blog and praying for Carmen and your family for over two years now. I have two adopted children from Guatemala, and I know you as Sisterbear on the forum (I’m DeeVee). Your lives are a remarkable testimony, and Carmen has touched so many people and brought them closer to our Lord and Savior… you have no idea. Praying for comfort for you, peace, and that you feel Jesus’ arms as He wraps them around your family through this.
continued prayers for a beautiful girl….God is wrapping his hands around you all and has a time for Carmen. I am glad that she is peaceful….
What a wonderful picture. Praying, praying, praying…