Family, Food, and Fun

Memorial Day brought a three day weekend (whoo hoo) and also the grandparents to town. Nana and Pop and Maw Maw Judy came to visit with Boone this weekend. That's right we're on the official back burner from now on (wink wink).

Nana and Boone

Maw Judy and Boone 

Sorry Dad. I'll get a picture of you and your trendy gown on the next post.

We spent a lot of time at the NICU of course, but we also did some fun things around Houston. We visited the George Herbert Bush monument in a city park on Memorial Day. I didn't know he was responsible for quite so many accomplishments in his two terms as President. It was a nice time to reflect on many individuals who have made strides in continuing the liberties we Americans enjoy so freely.

The park had a great view of downtown Houston. 

Also, we went to the Aquarium in downtown Houston. It was a lot more interesting than I expected. Eating dinner in front of a 150,000 gallon tank filled with 23 different species of fish, who'd have thought it would be that intriguing for adults.

The food was hit and miss. The meals that me (bayou shrimp pasta), mom (stuffed flounder), and Casey (bacon wrapped shrimp) had were delicious, but Dad (fried seafood platter) said he wasn't that impressed. That's what happens when a Louisianian orders a seafood platter in Houston. However, our desserts were incredible. They even had little fish cookies.

We had a great time with the grandparents this weekend and are looking forward to many more family adventures with them. Hopefully, those times won't include the NICU.

In the meantime, Boone is still gaining weight. He's currently 5lbs 5oz and 18 1/2 in. He's doing a better job of maintaining his body temperature, nursing like a champ, and his heart rate is remaining stable. The nurses are still gah gah over him and want to keep him there longer because they love to cuddle with him, but they're really doing everything they can to get him home as fast as as possible. They're even making him wear two hats and three blankets to aid in him maintaining those good body temperatures he's been getting over the weekend. We're still expecting him to come home in another week or so. Although that's been the consensus for the last couple weeks, this is still what they're saying. There are no other changes. He's as cute as ever and we are chomping at the bit to get him home.

Enjoy the pictures for now.

Here we geaux tigers! Here we geaux! (To sleep that is.)

My little monkey man.

And his monkey dad. 

I just can't stand it. I have to stare at him. And yes... even when he's asleep.

Who knew that frog would become a hit so quickly. He doesn't like to be very far from Ribbit. 

One day closer to home,

The Belgards

Faithful friendships I call family

We all have them... Faithful friendships. Despite how long it's been since you've seen each other the conversation typically picks up right where you left off. I'm truly thankful to God for providing healthy relationships in our lives to lean on, laugh with, create awkward moments and so on...

Always a good time with The Booths! Thankful they stopped by to love on Boone. Many vacation memories ahead!

Boone Bear Update

This will be short and to the point.

Please pray for Boone in the following specific ways:

• stability of body temperature (97.5 or higher)
• consistent increase in weight
• 5-7 days without apnea spells
• regulation of heart rate without medication

Please pray for Casey and I in the following ways:

• rest
• patience
• perseverance

Looking forward to taking Boone home in the next couple weeks.

The Belgards

Take me out to the ball game!

Today when I went to the hospital Boone had his feeding tube again. Ugh! Really Boone? Really?

The nurses said that he needed his tube to be replaced because he wasn't getting enough calories etc. Our goal is to continue to nurse him and give him bottles with breast milk until he's able to gain enough weight and keep his body temperature. The feeding tube will be used to supplement what he doesn't eat with the bottles. Hopefully, with these changes he will beable to accomplish his goals. We're looking forward and not backward. Hopeful that he will make progress again. For now, we wait. Again.

I'm feeling better than the last couple days. Last night we even went to an Astros baseball game with Stacy and Brad Booth. We sat right behind home plate in the "Diamond Club" seating, got to eat some incredible food, and the Astros even won in the 9th inning. It was really fun and took my mind off everything for a while. Thanks Booths for the invite.

These things I know...

I've been a little lazy on the posting over the weekend etc. Sorry about that. It's been an interesting few days. Not interesting because things are taking place that are rare occasions or events, but interesting because they've been rather a blur for me. To explain this may take a few thoughts, but overall I've not been myself. Sure I'm fine in front of people, but when I'm at home with Casey (watching me cry or sleep) and Marley (letting me hold on to her) I feel as if I'm not really myself. The nurses said most moms hit a wall from the emotional highs and intensity of the first two weeks after babies are born and that's probably the cause for this odd feeling I've been experiencing. Maybe so. What I do know is this journey has caused me to sit still in His presence often, and meditate on the things that are true to His word. For example: 

• God has been and will be glorified through this journey. 
• He has His gracious and merciful arms around me at all times. 
• He weeps over His children just as I weep over the distance between me and Boone. 
• The Lord provides for me spiritually, physically, emotionally, and mentally by using those around me (Casey, friends, family, nurses, doctors, our students and young adults, our faith families across three states, and yes... even Marley).

I long for the day that this experience is over, but am thankful for God giving me an opportunity to experience Him and His provision, consistency, and faithfulness. He has never left my side, and I constantly sing praises to His name throughout the day. Here's two of the songs I've been singing over the last two weeks: 

Leeland - "Carry Me On Your Back"

Even heroes fall down

And mountains won't last forever

But Your promise never fails

When the ocean is raging

I find stillness in Your presence

And I lift my voice to say

'Jesus take me away!

Carry me on your back

Through the storm, Lord!

Carry me on your back

Through the storm, Lord!'

When the furnace is burning

I know rescue is coming

Your promise never fails

In the darkness Your light shines

Breaking over the horizon

And I lift my eyes to see

Heaven's fighting for me

Waking up in the arms of love

I'll be singing, singing a new song

Waking up in the arms of love

I'll be singing, singing a new song

Hillsongs United - Forever Reign

You are good, you are good

When there's nothing good in me

You are love, you are love

On display for all to see

You are light, you are light

When the darkness closes in

You are hope, you are hope

You have covered all my sin

You are peace, you are peace

When my fear is crippling

You are true, you are true

Even in my wondering

You are joy, you are joy

You're the reason that I sing

You are life, you are life

In you death has lost its sting

Oh, I'm running to your arms

I'm running to your arms

The riches of your love

Will always be enough

Nothing compares to your embrace

Light of the world forever reign

You are more, you are more

Than my words will ever say

You are Lord, you are Lord

All creation will proclaim

You are here, you are here

In your prescence I'm made whole

You are God, you are God

Of all else I'm letting go

My heart will sing no other name

Jesus, Jesus

My heart will sing no other name

Jesus, Jesus

Boone is doing about the same. We are trying to pack on the pounds this week so he can go home soon. The extra pounds will help him maintain his body temperature etc. Also, he will be switching to Digoxin this week. This heart medicine has less long term side effects, and will be easier to manage when we are at home. Hopefully, he'll be on this medicine for a short period of time. Maybe 3 months or so. It's getting closer to having him home, but we still have to be patient. 



In the meantime, here's a picture of Boone Bear without his feeding tube. 

We're so proud! 

• I know Boone will be home when the time is right. 
• I know that until then the Lord will continue to use this journey to make His name famous. 
• I know that I'm thankful for the opportunity to be a part of this. 
• I know that I'm blessed to have a hubs that stands strong in the Lord, and by my side each and every day.

Please continue to use us Lord for your glory. 

Melbel

Jim vs Marley... things get a little "Ruff"

It was a typical day in the Belgard home... wake up, breakfast, 10 mile run... upper body workout on Fridays to keep up my physique. After the average morning routine I decided to spice it up. It was time to introduce a new friend to the family...

Meet Ruff...

A multi-purpose pooch in training for his special moments with Boone in a few weeks. 

His goal as a Tiny Tillia will make...

Bath time a splash of fun...

Dinner time easier to digest healthier foods...

After experiencing much quality time together Jim and Ruff became great friends...

Which lead to a game of fetch...

Jim was all smiles... but things turned south.... Including Marley's attitude.

It appeared that Ruff and Jim hit it off so well that they left Marley girl out of all the festivities. But that isn't the only thing. Marley specifically set aside the brand new Penn 2 tennis ball for bright summer days in the park with Boone Bear. We all know the wonderful smell of fresh, newly opened tennis balls. So with that in mind... imagine the emotions Marley was attempting to overcome. It was a memory she wanted with Boone. 

It really upset her.

After discovering what seemed to be our first family difference I (AS PROUD DADDY OF THE MONTH) had to address Jim and Ruff. It was tough but it was a lesson learned for all of us.

After talking with the two Ruff made a wise decision to discuss his actions with Marley.As the mediator I witnessed things unfold as best as they could have. I found it a bit hard to interpret but maybe you can help... it went like this

Ruff- Ruff, Ruff... Ruff Ruff Ruff

Marley- Ruff Ruff

Ruff- Ruff... Ruff... Ruff... Ruff Rufff

Marley- Ruff

Soon after... Marley and Ruff were on speaking terms and slowly working things out.

It was another accomplished training day in the Belgard household. When Boone arrives... we will all be ready. Speaking of Boone... He is doing great! Mom will post an update soon.

*Please be advised. A professional stunt man performed all stunts. No animals were harmed during this test.

There will be a day...

Honestly...I'm not real sure what to type in this post... I am speechless. So I will not type much. The song and testimony speak for themselves. Please take the next 45 minutes to read, listen and respond.

Please click on the link to watch testimony

"A Man and His World" a testimony by Brad Booth

Song Lyrics:

"There Will Be A Day" by Jeremy Camp

I try to hold on to this world with everything I have
But I feel the weight of what it brings, and the hurt that trys to grab
The many trials that seem to never end, His word declares this truth,
that we will enter in this rest with wonders anew

But I hold on to this hope and the promise that He brings
That there will be a place with no more suffering

There will be a day with no more tears, no more pain, and no more fears

There will be a day when the burdens of this place, will be no more,

we’ll see Jesus face to face

But until that day, we’ll hold on to you always

I know the journey seems so long
You feel your walking on your own
But there has never been a step
Where you’ve walked out all alone

Troubled soul don’t lose your heart
Cause joy and peace he brings
And the beauty that’s in store
Outweighs the hurt of life’s sting

I can’t wait until that day where the very one I’ve lived for always

will wipe away the sorrow that I’ve faced
To touch the scars that rescued me from a life of shame and misery

this is why this is why I sing….

There will be a day with no more tears, no more pain, and no more fears
There will be a day when the burdens of this place, will be no more,

we’ll see Jesus face to face

There will be a day, He’ll wipe away the stains, He’ll wipe away the tears, He’ll wipe away the tears…..there will be a day.

Meet Stacey... Brad's lovely wife. She's a NICU nurse in Birmingham, AL.

She has this baby lovin' down to a science.

A wonderful change of pace... after dinner and a game of Catan with the Kraffts;

Brad and Stacey stopped by to love on Boone before the big week ahead.

Thankful to call them friends... even more thankful

to call them brother and sister in Christ.

Doctors, Distractions, and Dinner

Today I had my post op visit with Dr. Ramirez. She said I'm doing great! Healing very nicely and looking thinner than last time she saw me. I had to remind her that the last time she saw me I was prego, but none the less it was still great to her. She said I can start driving soon, and do some moderate walking for exercise etc. She also mentioned the only reason why she was allowing these activities is because she knew she couldn't keep me down with "bubba" (that's what she calls Boone) still in the NICU. I just laughed in agreement. Overall, our experience with Dr. Ramirez has been fantastic. I'm so thankful we ended up under her expertise and care.

This is where a cool pic of the two of us standing in her office would go except... I forgot to take the picture. See, I got distracted by the enticing smell of Starbucks coffee and couldn't focus on anything else during the appointment except getting to the tall half-caff white chocolate mocha that was waiting for me after the visit. 

Whoops! So here's a picture of "Callie" from Grey's Anatomy (a show about doctors and hospitals). Annnnnnd her real last name is even Ramirez. Close enough for me. The real Dr. Ramirez would say this picture of her looks "years younger and shows off her great hair!" Ha! Maybe next visit I'll be successful in the picture attempt.





Also, today I slept a TON! I mean I thought I'd never wake up. I'm not sure why today was so tiring, but I certainly tried to catch up on the sleep I was apparently missing.

Anyway, I feel refreshed. Casey is at church with our students tonight for Impact. I sure miss those guys and gals (WO:Students shout out). Hopefully, I'll be around sooner than later to show off Lil B.

As far as Boone's progress: Today the docs said that he is maintaining his heart rate and body temperature well. The halter monitor results were normal and they seemed satisfied with normal (so am I). Maybe I already mentioned this last time, but there is a possibility that he will go home without any medication. He's still on one right now, but that's the information the docs offered. Lastly, he's still really young for his suckling skills to have matured full force. So they are saying that he's doing really great, but needs more time to get stronger and increase the longevity of his feeding times. He's a little lazy after feeding on one side. No worries. They said that's totally normal for a baby at 34 weeks who's still supposed to be inside my tummy. This is the time frame that they actually begin suckling in the womb. So we're all good with his progress. Estimated time of departure is looking like 2-3 more weeks. So we'll continue to wait for his super man strength and abilities to mature.

Thanks for the continued prayers, encouraging cards, and invaluable support from our friends, family, and even those we haven't met. Also, thanks to those who have visited this week. It's been great to pass the time with my faith family at White Oak. I hope to be back at church this Sunday. Looking forward to getting back in a routine. Dinner here I come... a girl's got to eat!

One day closer to home,

Melbel

Boone Bear Speaks Out

Everything is still looking good. Boone is progressing with his weight (4.14oz) nursing better each day and learning to keep his body temperature. His heart rate is stable, but he's still medicated. Best case scenario is he will go home without any medication (Whoo hoo!) yesterday he had a halter monitor on for 24 hours which they took off this morning. We won't have the results of that analysis until tomorrow. Honestly, I'm not quite sure what results or outcomes they are looking for. So hopefully we will be able to give more info tomorrow.

In the meantime, let's have fun narrating a picture I took of Boone Bear.

Jim vs Marley... "The Bumbo Challenge"

So far Marley and Jim are having a mutual respect for one another. She doesn't mess with him... he doesn't mess with her. She has licked her lips a few times but overcomes the urge to drag him around like a rag doll.

So this evening I was feeling a little chipper... It was time to challenge Jim and Marley's communication skills and bring their relationship to new heights.

Many of you have heard about the wonderful invention called a Bumbo.

The Bumbo Baby Seat is cleverly designed to support babies and allows the little ones to sit up independently. Knowing that this design is used by lazy parents throughout America we decided to give it a try.

But first... Ole' Jimbo gotta do the dirty work!

Jim's point of view

Marley's point of view

Everything turned out fine.

* Please be advised. A professional stunt man performed all stunts. No animals were harmed during this test.

Late Night Updates

Boone is maintaining his body temperature, nursing twice a day, and his heart rate is consistently normal. He is doing great! In fact, we even brought a new friend to the hospital today to keep him company. Introducing... Ribbit. That's right it's a frog, but not just your ordinary frog. He's got a nu nu attached to himself, the frog that is. I think the official name of this product is the Wubbanub. It was a gift from cousin Rachel. We weren't sure if he was gonna go for it or not, but as you can see he really likes it. He immediately latched on to it, so we wrapped it in his swaddling before we left. Mommy in one hand, Ribbit in the other, his belly full, and he's ready for nap time. So sweet!

Since he's doing  so well, I'm trying to adjust to a not so normal schedule: seeing him at the hospital, getting things done around the house, taking care of paperwork for school, and ending the semester with packing up my classroom etc. Ah summer, could you hurry please!?!

It's been interesting trying to be normal when you're baby is still at the hospital. Really he should still be in my tummy, and I should still be working. Last night was my first night back at our house.

Blubbering M. E. S. S.

No other way to describe it. I know God has a purpose for this journey we're on. I believe that 100%. Even though I would rather have Boone home sleeping in his crib as I rock in the glider and type this blog post, I can lean on these two things and find comfort:

1. He is safe, loved from a distance, and under the best care as possible right now. I certainly can't monitor his heart rate, lung functionality, or body temperature.

2. God is already using him in a mighty way to touch lives in the NICU (nurses, docs, and parents of other NICU babies) and the lives of our friends and family across at least three states (TX, AL, and LA).

HIS plans often throw us for a loop when we least expect it, but Casey and I are thankful that Boone is growing stronger each day. We are also seeing our friends, family, and faith family grow closer through this journey as they love us and our Lil B in a number of different ways. We are humbled, grateful, and giving glory to our Lord as we continue this journey.

One day closer to home,

Melbel

Someone seems a bit protective over Lil' Jimbo...

Meet Jim... Boone's stunt double.

Meet Marley Sue... Boone's soon to be best friend

But before they can meet up Mrs. Marley Sue must go through some pre-game warm ups w/Jim. Through recent research Mel and I discovered that it is best for us to use a look-a-like swaddled in Boone's clothing to play out his arrival. So... We did. I must admit... Marley did wonderful. Jim is only missing 1 arm and hair.


We will keep you posted on Jim's progress... In the meantime Boone and Mommy are doing well, gaining strength each day.

Boone... Right where he belongs.

Weighing in at 4lbs 10.6.... Boone Belgard!!!!

Gaining weight & looking sharp.

Somebody doesn't like to get on the scale...

Update

Boone continues to show progress. He is feeding from mommy and the bottle twice a day. The remainder of the feedings are done through the tube. He is slowly gaining weight(He gets that from his daddy) and looking beautiful(He gets that from mommy)
Overall we could not ask for anymore from our little man. He is giving every ounce of effort to get healthy. We are proud! The biggest challenge we face is going home. We head back tonight. It is the first night Mel and I have been more than 3miles from Boone. It will be quite the transition but we find comfort in our Lord. He is sovereign.

So... You might ask... What now? Here is our game plan.

6:00am- Mel is up doing her mommy duties providing meals for Boone
7:00am- Preparing for the day
8:30am- Drop Mommy off and visit w/Boone Bear
9:00am- Snack time w/Boone
12:00pm- Mommy and Boone have lunch
1:00pm- Mommy naps
3:00pm- Snack time w/Boone
5:45pm- Daddy on the scene... doing what he does best.
6:00pm- Dinner time w/Boone provided by Mommy served by Daddy.
7:00pm- Daddy and Mommy dinner
9:00pm- Snack time w/Boone
10:00pm- Back home to Marley

Whew... That makes me tired just typing it! We better put on our game faces!

Once again... We are so very thankful for the prayers and praise over our family the last 5wks. It is clearly evident that the hand of our Lord is working.

One day closer to home,
The Belgards

Proud Daddy pic of the day!

We like to call this picture "The Boone-Rito" special.

Proud Daddy Pic of the Day!

Hey everyone... Sorry for not posting anything over the last day or so. Blogger was having some difficulties.

In the meantime... here is my proud daddy pic of the day! He almost finished his bottle.

If at first you don't succeed...keep tryin'

We gotta figure this out little man!

Hmmm... look... daddy likes it!

VICTORY!

1 Week Old

Notice anything different? Someone upgraded their sleeping arrangments!

Boone Bug Update

Ladies and gentlemen Boone Bug is impressing all the ladies... Nurse by nurse stopping by to see how cute he is.

As of 12:45pm today his heart rate is stable around 130's with no umbilical or oxygen tubes. His levels are great.

Our current prayer requests are...
1. Boone learns to suck, swallow and breath simultaneously.
2. Mel continues to recover smoothly
3. That we find favor with some housing opportunities on this side of town so Mel can be next to Boone w/out traveling and moving around much
4. As we work w/insurance and such figuring out details w/Mel's job.

Our Lord has been faithful. We thank Him for using His church to show His love. Thanks for all your prayers and support.

Mommy and Roar making it look easy!

Mommy... I'm hungry.

Alert letting us know he is hungry.

Update

Well... Jackson Boone is doing great; however the family members have been place in a padded room taking doses of Toprol. After Boone Bugs latest update we are thrilled' shoutin' laughin' like a bunch Cajuns at crawfish festival workin' on gettin' kicked out of the NICU!

Brace yourself...Here is Latest

Jackson Boone is off the oxygen and maintaining a stable heart rate for over 3hrs... We are thankful and overjoyed.

One day closer to home...

Casey