Hi All! 

Audrey Daniel was born to our beloved Stephen and Heather at 3 pounds 14 ounces. Heather was induced the week before Christmas due to high blood pressure and the risk for preeclampsia as well as the concern that Audrey was not properly gaining weight in utero, most especially in the most recent 2 weeks of pregnancy. Soon, at 6:39am, Audrey arrived into the world in safe medical health except for her size. The doctors have advised that Audrey stay in the NICU until she reaches 4 pounds.

Heather was released to go home soon after with medication to manage blood pressure. 

Heather and Stephen have been visiting her daily, including on Christmas. Audrey started out on a feeding tube, and is increasingly able to drink from a bottle now (yay!). The doctors are optimistic, they expect that Audrey will be able to come home in the next week or two.

Heather shared her mom will come and stay with them for a while after Audrey comes home, and Stephen's parents live nearby. 

One of the most common stressors I've heard from those dealing with hospital intervention is how the expenses add up quickly. The choice between work and presence is a never ending concern for those dealing with extended hospital stays. 

While some stressors simply can't be mitigated beyond our prayers, others can. Would you consider contributing to medical bills and those little side expenses that quickly add up during a life crisis? Any amount will obviously be of help. 

Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year! May this snowy holiday season be a time of rest and restoration for you all.