Austin Pullen

Spoke to Allison today and Austin has hit a big bump in the road. They are at St. Jude's as an inpaitent for at least 6 more days (they have already been there for 3). A rash had developed around Austin's central line in his chest and after a culture of the area, they discovered 2 bacterial infections. Austin had the line removed and had a peripheral IV started. He is now on 3 different antibiotics that will be given for the next 6 days. One of the bacteria that was found doesn't always respond well to antibiotics, so this could be a major step back for his little body which is already immunosupressed. Please keep Austin, Allison, Aaron, and Trey in your prayers.

Julie

Well, Lena is still staying put... but unfortunately for Julie, she has been on bed rest. The doctor said she is allowed to go to the bathroom and the kitchen. Since Julie has been "tied" to the couch or bed and Mike has lots of work to do... I went to Trussville to stay the weekend. While I was there I did some things around the house and entertained Julie while Mike was working. Julie did have a little fun bossing me around, but ultimately she wished she could have been doing things herslef. Other than being a bit bored and stiff from being on the couch all the time, Julie is doing well. She is continuing to have some contractions, but has medicine to help stop them. I really did enjoy my time with Julie and Mike and was glad I was able to help them out.

Matt

I talked to Matt several times last week. It seems that everyday it rains. He was going to fly today, but the weather prevented that. Matt said that this is the "rainy season" for Iraq. He is really getting excited about the arrival of our first niece! We are planning to spend a few days with Julie and Mike (and Lena...) when he is home for mid tour. I can't hardly wait to get him home, even though its only for a short time. I'm really gonna hate having to tell him bye again.... but I think it will be easier than it was in September.

Julie

Lena seems to be growing fast!! She has now found herself a favorite footrest/kicking spot in Julie's ribs. Julie is having some contractions, but so far everything is going well. Grandma Donna told Lena she "better stay put!" and Julie continues to tell her "I'm excited to get to see you but just wait a little longer." With all of the excitement of a possible early delivery I have canceled my travel plans for this month. I was to go to NC to see Valerie and to TN to see Angie (both were very understanding about my canceling) cause I would NEVER forgive myself if I wasn't here for my neice's arrival! (not that I want a front row seat...)

Matt

Can you guess who woke me up this morning? That's right!! My Hubby!! As always whenever he wakes me up Matt says, "Oh baby, did I wake you up? I'm sorry..." My response, as always is, "I don't care." To all the Family I saw over Christmas...and friends I have seen....remember the card I had you sign for Matt? Thanks for letting me "push" that pen and card at you all.... Matt got it a few days ago and he LOVED it. Seeing that I haven't written in a while.... I have to update you on the nice suprise that Matt got New Years. He was able to see a good friend of his, Mike. (Mike was in the wedding) Mike was on his way out of the sandbox heading back home and just happen to be stopping over where Matt is!! (oh by the way Mike, if you are reading this... WELCOME HOME!!)

Countdown continues...... 4 months down, 8 to go....