EU: Meet Venice!

Today, we walked around Venice. Talk about fun!! I already shared facts yesterday, so this will be shorter...mostly just pictures. :)

Waiting in the square...

We missed church today...but then, we also missed Daylight Savings... I'm curious, how many of you forgot about the "Springing Forward" an hour? Did you arrive in time for church?

Saint Marco's Square

 We visited the San Vidal Church, where the Interpreti Veneziani Concerts are being held currently (Featuring Vivaldi), and wow--is it gorgeous!!

In one of the squares, I came face-to-face with my first honest-to-goodness 'one-man band'!!!! That made my day...my week...okay, my year. I want to do that....make that contraption...oh yeah. I love the accordion, and the way he did it was almost like watching the One Man Band Pixar Short...(except there was no competition... :/)

The drum and cymbals are connected to his feet, and his "hat" has bells on it.

Another view (and he's my size too!)

This evening, we watched Chitty-Chitty-Bang-Bang...a video I haven't watched in maybe 4 years... It was so good to watch it again....it has always been a favorite, but this time, it was especially meaningful, having just come from Neuschwanstein Castle. Amazing how much I relate to Truly... She's awesome. =)

Afterwards, we went out for pizza. (Remember, dinner isn't served until 7pm.) If you are ever in Venice, go to the Al Vaporetta San Marco restaurant. Their food is great, prices are reasonable (for Venice), and they are VERY accommodating!!

Rebekah and my "chipmunk cheeks". (Her swelling has gone down a good bit...just red, blistered, and raw now.

The moon was especially beautiful tonight (though this doesn't catch half of it...) And my favorite constellations were visible as well--a glimpse of home, as always.

Looking Forward: Tomorrow is our last big travel day until we return to the United States. Last Stop: Monaco!! I can't wait!!

I'm really trying to work on graciousness right now, and conquer this attitude of negativity and contrariness that has been seeping in... Praise God for His grace! I am so blessed how so often my Bible reading and devotions match exactly what God is teaching me... For instance, today - Psalms 39.

"...I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me.  I was dumb with silence, I held my peace, even from good; and my sorrow was stirred.

LORD, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is; that I may know how frail I am. Behold, Thou hast made my days as an handbreadth; and mine age is as nothing before Thee: verily every man at his best state is altogether vanity. Selah.

And now, Lord, what wait I for? my hope is in Thee. Deliver me from all my transgressions: make me not the reproach of the foolish. I was dumb, I opened not my mouth; because Thou didst it."

~ Psalms 39:1-2, 4-5, 7-8 ~

Belize Mission 2014

Belize.....So much was accomplished there,...where do I start? God is so good!!! We were a team of 30 going down, including a family with 3 kids under 4...talk about fun!!

Originally, besides ministry, we went down there to renovate a poorly made building, plus fencing, and so much more...however, when we got down there, we found out that most of the projects we were originally asked to do had already been completed by other teams!! However, work never stops....and we were given a long list of things needing done, which somehow we got most of them done.....incredible! God is so gracious!!

During project hours, I was almost completely devoted to the tile laying in the laundry/bathroom/shower facility: 5 rooms.. However, this had a special challenge with it, as the inner walls were not built straight, nor was the concrete level, so it was time-consuming, to say the least...however, I LOVED it, and learned so much...and checked another thing off my Bucket List!!! (Feeling closer to being able to renovate my own home one day!)

Unfortunately, 1 week into being there, I pulled my right forearm's tendon, messed up the sheath and surrounding nerves (found out later I had just overused it...seriously?!)...which praise God I'd brought my handy brace, and was able to make a makeshift sling for the rest of the time there...coming back, healing has been slow, even now (6 weeks later), but praise God, I have an awesome Chiropractor-Therapist, and it has much improved...

So, for the next week, I tile layed and did everything else all with my left hand--talk about gaining more experience and coordination!! God is so gracious!!


Our schedule was interesting.....working all day on the different projects, and then quickly freshening for Bible Clubs in the mid afternoon, and often we had evening commitments too... However, during the Bible Clubs, 3 little girls accepted Jesus Christ as their Saviour, and about 70 kids learned more about Jesus. We also had young men and women discipleships happening at the same time--about 30 or so there, and also Pre-K for the little ones.

Other ministry opportunities we had were 2 chapel services held in the govermentry schools (with around 700 kids each!); Marion's luncheon and outreach that she (a Belizean missionary) has every day for a bunch of poorer school kids, where evangelism is done; an evening at The Kings' Children's Home (where we hosted an ice cream social); Ladies and Mens' Seminars, and a Pastors' Seminar.

I found out that short-term mission trips are MUCH different than longer term mission trips, however, the saving grace was knowing that we weren't just leaving the people we encouraged to the wolves, but that there were pastors who were going to follow up with them....the biggest thing we all wished for was more time to disciple them..

When we first arrived, I had a really hard time not comparing everything I saw with the Philippines...and I felt that they were so much more well-to-do... I quickly realized that what I was lacking was compassion, and so I cried out to God to give me a compassion for these people, as all people need Jesus..no matter if they live in a 3rd world, 2nd world, or 1st world country...and praise God, He did!!

I found it fascinating trying to look through the eyes of the many teammates of mine who had never been to a 2nd world country before...in some ways, I felt they had an innocence and excitement that I haven't felt for ages...it was really eye-opening..even down to Palm Trees... :)

One of the biggest things I enjoyed was the closeness and restfulness I felt with God while there....something about the mission field..even though I went down with church-mates, it really is me and God...He is the One I utterly rely on, and trust my decisions to.. I miss that in the US, but praise God, He is showing me how to have that 'resting-ness and closeness' here as well, despite living at home and in crazy, fast-paced America!!!

What a wonderful thing it is to truly rest in our Saviour, and leave all burdens and cares at His feet!! There is no need to stress!! As my new mantra is.... "Don't worry, Trust Jesus!!"

There is so much more I could share...but honestly, I would rather ask you to ask me questions, if you want to know more...just ask them in the comment section!

I posted some pictures on my Belize Overview post last month, but I also created a slideshow for our church presentation, which you can watch below!!

"But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the Gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts. For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness:

Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.

But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children."

~ I Thessalonians 2:4-7 ~

Want to know something particular about our trip?
I shall try to answer all questions!

EMT: All Certified

As many of you know, this Spring, I completed my EMT Course and Skills Training, and passed my National Skills Test, leaving one test left to complete - the Adaptive Written Test, before I was completely 'Nationally Certified'. I finally took the test last night, after putting it on the back burner for 4 months, and found out this morning that I passed it, praise God!!

Earlier this summer, I had the opportunity to spend around 75 hrs as a ridealong at our local Fire Department, working on the ambulance, as well as the fire engine for a total of around 34 calls. You see a lot of things in the Emergency field, and I discovered I have a passion for it.

One of my main Shifts and I

As disciples of Christ, we all have been commissioned to 'Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things Jesus commanded us.' (Matt. 28:19-20a) This commission can and should be carried out where ever we are, whether that is at home, at work, at the grocery store, at play, etc.
Christ told us that 'WE are the light of the world, and a city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.' (Matt. 5:14) He commanded us to 'Let our lights so shine before men, that they may see our good works, and glorify our Father which is in Heaven.' (Matt. 5:16)

All of this applies in the field of EMS as well. Except, in this sense, we typically only have about 1/2 hour with each patient: to encourage them and make an impact for Christ--mostly through care, prayer, compassion, and example. We also can make an impact with our co-workers (or the 'brotherhood' as it is termed at the FD)... EMS is a stressful, adrenaline-packed job, and though there is a definite sense of satisfaction with a job well done, it's not always easy or fun.

Ever seen the a battery resting on the ground before?? That's what happens when a Jetta hits a Dumptruck...

There is a huge mission field there in EMS, and the biggest way to have an impact is to lead through example--letting your walk talk mostly, instead of the talk talk (though there are times for that as well).

As a girl going into a mostly guys world, you have to be careful that you are shamefaced and discreet, because you are dealing with other women's husbands, fiances, etc. in high-stress situations. It was really neat, because in the short time I was there, I saw God use me to make a small impact in the areas I served, and it so encouraged me to continue trying to make those little differences in other areas of my life as well.

I am so grateful for all those who serve our Country in all aspects. It is a rough, tough job...you see a lot, and you have to handle a lot..and when you get off the job--12, 24, 48, or longer hour shifts, you have to go home and readjust to 'normal' life, trying to forget the sometimes devastating things you've dealt with...sometimes to people who understand and help, sometimes to people who don't.

It is imperative that we on the homefront encourage those working in those Front Line fields--both those defending our Country from without and within, and seek to understand how we can help.

As you might see, I'm passionate about this subject, and could go on for hours...so I'll end here. ;)

Also, as a quick addendum, Joe Galizio, a Volunteer Firefighter/EMT in NY is writing a kids book called 'Don't be Afraid' to help raise awareness that EMS Personnel are there to help in stressful situations. His hope is to educate Pre-K - Elementary-aged children that it's okay to be nervous, but not to hide from emergency workers, and hopefully help children understand the process during an emergency, which will make it a little less stressful for them.
His goal is to raise $7500.00 to assist with artwork and to cover the costs for the first print run of 2000 books. If you have an extra dollar or two, this would be a great cause to donate it to.. It would be really neat to see this book published... Read more here.

Skills Camp-Day 1

We had a wonderful Mother's Day...before I left to go to my week long EMT Skills Camp, located at Camp Mivoden on Hayden Lake. After an hour long drive on a very windy road (fun!), I arrived at 1645, got settled in, and Introductions & Orientation started at 5pm.

There are 17 of us...11 guys, 6 girls, 13 EMT-Basics, and 4 EMT-Intermediates, most all are ranging on their 20-30's and are single. The food is great, beds are excellent (in my opinion), bugs are few (just carpenter ants), and weather is perfect....pretty hot, actually.

There is another Sarah here--just about my age and my size from CA. We all live in a dorm type situation, but were lucky enough to each get a whole room to ourselves (with 4 bunk beds in it). She lives right across the hall.

Dinner was served at 1730 (scrumptious!)

Our first Session started at 1815 regarding NREMT Registration and Exam Overview.
We started the session with a short video clip...that I thought you'd enjoy as well. :)

When I purchased the course originally, I knew that it was one of the best courses on the market--especially for an online-based course. However, I didn't know HOW much was really included in the price...these guys bent their backs over for us!! They made every penny worth it, and I can't recommend it enough. Their committal to seeing us through getting our certifications is outstanding, and they even cover our first $70 entrance fee for the NREMT Written Test. On top of that, they made it possible for us to test out for our NREMT Skills Test on Friday Morning.

From the start, I personally think we have one of the best Fire Departments....especially after hearing the other EMT's situations....Praise God for North Idaho!!

Praying that I will be able to be a light and witness for Jesus here.....I love these opportunities to hopefully be an example of what Christ can do....with humility, joy, and acceptance. I'm going to enjoy this week immensely!! The Instructors are awesome!!!

Venia

A young friend of ours in the Movie industry just came out with his 2nd film called VENIA, (latin), meaning 'grace, indulgence, favor, pardon, and forgiveness'.

Inspiring and convicting, I would encourage everyone to watch this short 9 minute video:

But I say unto you which hear (do), Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you. And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloke forbid no to take thy coat also.

Give to every man that asketh of thee; and of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again.

And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.

But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for He is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil.

Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.

~ Luke 6:27-31, 35-36 ~

7/7: Butuan Delivery!!

At 8:30 AM, a runner came and told us that Lauralen was having really strong contractions and in labor, and that the Helot was there.  (Helots are massagers who often deliver the babies, but have no training besides just doing it.)

At 9:30 AM, we did visitations, starting with Lauralen and Jane. Not sure if she had her baby yet, all 8 of us decided to go to her house to check on her. Her labor was definitely progressing, but still latent (not active). Her contractions had also lessened, so we gave her some more labor stimulation techniques and then left.

The piglets were SO cute!! The runt was not bigger than 8" long, and the others were about 1.5' long.

One thing I should mention is that Lauralen's sister gave birth last year in the H/C with a 'midwife' helping her. Her baby had complications during the birth, and was stillborn. Reminded of this, Lauralen decided against giving birth in the H/C (in case there was some "repeating reason" there), and asked to have her baby at home.

It was so precious, because her twin sons were playing vigorously. They kept running around the 'house', shooting their 'finger' guns with a 'chug-chug' sound. Then, the one would lay down on the ground, and the other one would lay on top of him in the form of a "T". Then, they'd get up and do it all over again!!! So adorable!!
Here's a video of the one chug-chugging his twin (who is behind the door inside):

After leaving, we split up into our respective teams again. Our team went to check Baby Jane, while Balong's went to visit other homes. Jane was doing good. She had had a few contractions, but nothing permanent.
While talking to her, many of her neighbors came over with questions and complaints of their own, asking for b/p checkspb checks, and so on. One little girl we were asked to check (one of the 6-girl family), had a HR of 136, which is quite abnormal for a 6 year old. They thought it might be due to allergies. Another had a baby with a continual cough. We advised both the best we could.

When we got back, we had lunch and a siesta, and then everyone except Makayla and I went to the Elementary School again to show the Jesus Movie to the next bunch of kids.

Sylvette was supposed to preform "Tuli" on this little boy last year, but it didn't happen, and when we came back this year, we found out that it had been done on him already, via Katie!!

Only thing was, he didn't want to get anywhere near Katie now!! (Good reason too! :D)

So, we bribed him with candy, stickers, and play time with us, INSIDE the H/C....

At first, he viciously attacked Katie with rubberbands,  but....

pretty soon, they were best buddies!!

Making Lunch

This kid got a bloody nose from something during siesta time, so we took good care of him.

Meanwhile, Kay and I went to check on Lauralen. She was definitely still progressing, with contractions every 3-5 minutes apart, but still had a ways to go. She also had slight hypertension (138/90), so we advised her to Left Side Lie.

On our way back, we were surprised to meet Sylvette and Balong standing next to a booth, where there was a large rubbermaid container filled with muffins. I asked Balong what they were doing, and he replied: "Selling stuff."  Playing along with it, I asked "How much??" He replied "Um....500 pesos." I acted shocked and horrified, and said "Too MUCH!! Will you take...180 pesos??" We haggled for a little bit, and finally I agreed to buy the whole container and muffins for 350 pesos. I think he thought that was an outrageously high price for me to consider paying, because his eyes got really big. So I countered again and wailed, "No money!!" (pretending to show my empty pockets), and started walking away. He called after me, "You can eat them now and pay for them later!!" I came up with some lame counter to evade 'buying them', but the whole scene was so backwards-cultural, that we both started laughing heartily.

I then learned the real reason they were waiting, which was simply that they were locked out of the H/C. (I had the key. ;D) We should have thought of it before, but we still had no electricity, and no electicity = no movie. By the time I got back (it was a good 10 minute walk), the Barangay Mayor had unlocked it for them. (They had borrowed them earlier in the morning for a town meeting.) So, I walked really fast for nothing...oh well!!

Unfortunately, everyone was sleeping back at the H/C, and I was pretty energetic from my haggling and walking back so fast, and wanted to do something... Balong suggested that some of us go get some water from the Spring, since no electricity also equals no clean water!! And so Balong, Sylvette, and I went.

I decided to leave my camera at home (which was a stupid idea), and so so don't have any of the amazing pictures I would have if I'd brought it!!! The Spring was about a mile walk, including the detour we took, because we originally were going to get it from the river. Sylvette and I, and eventually Balong, had a blast teasing each other about 'Jack and Jill', and started making our verses up, and having too much fun, as we slipped in the mud, etc. We finally found the Spring in the opposite Purok, we had to go down a very steep hill and muddy path to get to it.

Bringing the full containers of water were a challenge for all of us, because there were 25 gallon containers (and a smaller one which Sylvette took). So, we had fun trying to make the biggest face when resting every 15-20+ steps up the very steep hill. I weigh more than both Filipinos, and I don't weigh a whole lot, so it wasn't that they weren't strong or anything, it was just that we were all small!!! :)

There was a carabao (cousin to the water  buffalo) in one of the watering holes (not the drinking spring :D), which we had fun laughing about, since all that was showing was his head. On the way up, I cut my hands some, not deep or anything, but in the creases, and so they didn't feel good at all. :) Oh well! This is the life!!!

Sylvette went on ahead of us, to hail a driver, since we unanimously agreed that we were NOT going to carry them ourselves back to the H/C. Praise the Lord!! While waiting, we saw 4 boys (ages 10-12??) who had dressed themselves in banana leaves, pretending to be natives. They had wooden swords, and were literally covered in leaves!! (Now I know how Adam and Eve were dressed!! :), except their's were fig leaves, which are tiny, comparatively!!) They pretended to have sword fighting matches, and took turns rolling down a steep embankment.

When the driver came to bring us to H/C, he loaded the buckets on his SkyLab, and then instructed for me to ride on the side, while Balong rode on the back. A SkyLab is a motorbike with a removable wooden slats apparatus attached to the sides, where you can put people and baggage. Balong expertly guided me on how to get on/off and stay on the SkyLab, for which I was very grateful, and what fun it was!!! Basically, as a person, you sit with your feet in front of you the whole length of the wood, whereas, a bag would be tied down to the wood. ;p LOL

I think the Filipinos got a kick out of the whole thing, from a very small Americana and 2 Filipinos leaving with these giant black water containers, and then returning on this SkyLab....it was pretty funny. :) I only wish I had pictures!!

A picture I got from Mr. Google. :)

On our way up, we met Sylvette who informed me to hurry back down with the Birthing Supplies, because Lauralen was in active labor. I think the driver was nervous then, because he zoomed off, and all I could think was "Baby on the way!! Baby on the way!!" LOL As soon as I walked into the H/C, I called out, "Active Labor!!" That woke all the girls up really fast, and Makayla asked "You're kidding, right??" I answered "Nope!!" I didn't mean to startle them, but I guess I did (in my mind, it only started to get them back for last night's scare ;p)...anyway, it got them up really fast, which was what I needed.

Grabbing the medical supplies, we all hopped onto the SkyLab again (he waited for us). The men followed 15 minutes later, after running the water through filter, filling our water bottles up, and putting the water away properly.

That was crazy!! There were 7 of us on the skylab: Jordan and I were behind the driver, who had his 4 year old son in front of him, and Makayla and the Trio were on the "wings". (Riding on a SkyLab was on Makayla's bucket list to do, but she never dreamed that it would be accomplished like it was!!!) Again, I got the feeling of "Baby on the way!! Baby on the way!!" driving.... I guess Etienne tried taking a picture of us, because it was so hilarious, but the driver drove away too fast. Crazy Americanas!! :)

When we got there, we found that though she was 'active', it was early active, so there hadn't been such a need to rush. Oh well! We were all there now!!! :)

Waiting.......

Midwife is Waiting Too....

After half an hour or so, everyone besides MKK and I went to Rocky's house for Bible Study. Rocky had asked the team last year to come for a Bible Study, but they had been so busy, they'd been unable to. This year, however, when he asked again, we made sure we were able, and guess what? 5 people got saved!! Rocky, his son, and then remember the guy who got saved 2 days ago??? He brought 3 of his friends, who got saved too!!!! Praise the Lord!!!

When someone gets saved here, there is almost always a dramatic change in their lives, unlike many dominantly caucasian areas, were there is often much passivity and apathy afterwards. As a new believer, they need discipleship, which NT really tries to do when they are here.

Deserting us...oh well!! MKK and I had some really good talks, so encouraging talking to like-minded believers!!

Back to the Labor:

We did another IE at 4:45pm, which showed some progress: 3 cm dilation, and 40% effacement. Head was still -1 station and not well applied, which gave an explanation for why her dilation was slow. MKK couldn't feel any BOW whatsoever, so we assumed it must have ruptured already.

During labor, she did a lot of standing, squatting, and hand/knees positions. By 5:44pm, after doing labor stimulation, her contractions were getting stronger and more painful, and then got even stronger at 7:13pm. There were 2 times where she felt really dizzy and had heart palpitations, which could be an indicator of pre-eclampsia again, so we had to watch for that as well. (Praise the Lord, it was okay.)

This whole time, Makayla had been walking Lauralen through her labor, while I charted everything. It was really precious, because the bana made us coffee and bought crackers for us to eat!! He also supplied blankets for sleeping.

At 7:53pm, Lauralen moved into the transition stage, and had contractions every 3 minutes for 42-46 sec. long. She was feeling sort of pushy sometimes, and so MKK asked for a runner to go to Rocky's house and inform the team. Unfortunately, no one knew where it was, so they didn't come until later, (which was actually quite okay, since she didn't have her baby right then anyway.)

At 7:59pm, the helot came. Interestingly, she started delivering babies at the tender age of 14, including 4 of her mother's babies!!! She is now 62 years old. MKK really wanted the helot there, so that hopefully, she wouldn't feel like we're taking over her job. We did have some trepidations over how it would work when she came.... Praise the Lord, it went really well. The helot appreciated our presence, and had no problem with MKK handling the birth, and verbally said that she'd be MKK's "assistant".

It was interesting some of the things she did, and some of the beliefs they have about birth. Here are a few examples:

1) If the windows are open or someone is standing in the doorway, the baby won't come out.

2) As soon as the head is out, the like to push the abdomen down really hard from the top, in order to get the rest of the baby out. A lot of damage is done doing this, and it can cause severe hemorrhage and even death.

3) Uterine massage is majorly done here, during pregnancy, and before, during, and after birth. They also like to pull the cord (not CCT), which can cause severe hemorrhaging, and possible prolapse.

MKK was so gracious and calm, and was able to help dispel a few of their myths. They actually had quite a good conversation about some different things. Some things though, we kind of just shook our heads, and left it at that.

Tired Team!! Still waiting!!

Making good use of the blankets!!

Our Captain-Etienne, using his time wisely

Both 'Translators' were SO glad to have like-minded Filipino company!! 

The rest of our team got there soon after 8pm, and at 9:12pm, Lauralen tried pushing a few times, to no avail.  At 9:16pm, the helot did some "abdominal stimulation", and at 9:30, she ate some food. I had needed to use the CR since 4pm, when we got there, but needed to be there to help. At 9:30pm, Sylvette was there, as well as the team, and since Lauralen was eating, I figured I could probably take 20 minutes to go back to the H/C safely. Some more of our medical supplies were back there as well, and so a couple of us headed out.

Family and Friends, waiting in the dark

Balong-watching labor and birth from the doorway.

A teenage boy (unrelated), watched the entire birth. He was very interested.

While waiting, Katie and Hannah did some stargazing--such a clear sky too!!

We had barely gone 40 feet (9:44pm), when Sylvette yelled out "Sarah, 2 cm head visible!!!!". My first thought was "Shoot!!! Just my luck!! Of course, as soon as I leave, the baby is born!! I should have done this a few hours ago!!!" ;p . We hurried back, and to our shock and surprise, found that she had a bulging BOW now as well!!! That was pretty interesting.... MKK did an AROM (artificial rupture), and found it was filled with thick vernix.

9:53pm, baby went from 4cm head visible to fully out, and it was a BABY GIRL!!! Despite thick mec. staining/vernix, her APGAR Scores were 9 and 10. The EBL was 150 total, and the placenta was complete. There was no tear, though her cervix prolapsed, which we were able to get corrected.

All 3 H/C girls cut the cord-together, at one time. It was priceless.

Baby Kylie!! Minutes old.

First Birth for All!!! They were on Cloud 9!!

Taking it all in

Measuring the length of baby

Reading the Tape Measure

I charted the entire birth, by flashlite...what fun!!

Birth Team (minus picture-taking Sylvette): Katie, Jilian, Hannah, me, and Kai with baby Kylie

It was priceless to see the men of our team with baby Kylie

Upon examination, the baby (whom they named "Kylie" after Makayla, who's main nickname is "Kai"), was slightly preterm: evident by her thick vernix, and scarce foot creases. She was 50.5 cm long (20 4/5 inches).

Despite probable/possible complications of VBAC, Pre-eclampsia, hypertension, hemorrhage, tearing, high mec staining, cervical prolapse, uterine rupture, etc. Mom and baby were fine, with only mec. staining, slight prematurity and cervical prolapse happening.

All in all, this was a miraculous birth....there were so many complications that could or should of happened, and much shortage of supplies (we had given the major supplies to Lizzie's team, and so had no bulb syringe or many other necessary-ities) but God allowed for it to be without hardly any problems!! Praise the Lord!!!

Did I mention that that it gets dark at 6:30pm, and so the whole birth was by candle and flash light??? Did I mention that I went through 2 of my 3 flashlights??? WOW!!

We all finally got back to the H/C around midnight, which left me 3 hours to sleep before we had to get up to go do a postpartum exam on them, before catching the jeepney at 4. I slept out in Barangay Hall again, and boy, were the stars beautiful!! This time, I slept like a log.

What I Learned:
- No matter what the possibilities might be, God is a God of miracles, and can overcome any odds with ease.
- God is Faithful, and I know that even if some tragedy had happened, He would be there--right there with us!!!
-Something I have come to realize through this week, is that God is there at each birth, and all we have to do is ask Him for help, for strength, for grace, for wisdom, for comfort. I can picture Him there, tenderly wanting to help us, if we will only but ask Him!!!
- Another thing, is that the both mom and baby were totally fine after birth. If anything really bad had happened, because of past experiences, it is very possible that the village would not welcome any "midwife" again. We serve an Awesome God.

O Lord GOD, Thou hast begun to shew Thy servant Thy greatness, and Thy mighty hand: for what God is there in heaven or in earth, that can do according to Thy works, and according to Thy might?

~ Dueteronomy 3:24 ~