James 1:2-4

² Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, ³ because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. ⁴ Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

The book of James was always my favorite growing up and was a classic "go-to" when I  couldn't remember where I had left off in the Bible. Rough day being homeschooled? James 1. A boyfriend just broke up with me? James 1. I couldn't decide what I wanted to do when I grew up? James 1. I think back of all the "trials" I faced growing up and literally laugh. I'm pretty sure I thought the world was going to end when I couldn't sell my 4-H sheep my Junior year of HS due to miscommunication with the 4-H committee board. I also remember secretly dying inside when it took Derek 3 years to marry me. I promise I'm not quite as pathetic as this post is making me sound BUT I say it to point out "trials" we face. Yes, God does say we will face small and large trials. I am also not trying to put down anyone whose current trial includes deciding what hair color to go with for fall. I am saying that these verses have a whole new meaning in my life. They remind me that things could be much worse. I understand our trial may seem very hard to some and it is VERY HARD. But it is also not nearly as difficult as other trials people face throughout their lifetime. Does this seem fair? Meh. No. But as I often say to Derek when I serve him dinner, "You get what you get and you don't throw a fit".

Today I wanted to just share with you our new routine. Here at the Rehab hospital. He typically has around 3-4 hours of scheduled rehab per day. These workouts vary between OT (Occupational Therapy), PT (Physical Therapy), and possibly some group workouts.

We receive his schedule around 6pm the previous day and then make a game plan. I usually arrive between 7:15-8am each morning depending on when his first sessions starts. When I arrive, I help the nurses get him ready with the daily routine. Teeth brushed, shirt on, tummy binder in place(he calls it his waist trainer), ted hose in place, getting him into his chair, etc.

Once we get the sessions, the first few hours always go fairly fast. Derek works on things such as balance, strength, and transfers. With OT, he works more with daily life things such as putting on shoes, learning to get himself into his chair, or even simple things like putting in contacts. With PT, he really gets a workout. He does strength training and more workouts regarding his balance. Balance and flexibility will be key for him.

We can tell he is getting stronger, but with so many other broken bones, it is difficult for him to do a lot of these tasks on his own. So, here is a challenge for you. Sit down on the edge of your bed and lay back. Now with one elbow to the side, use that elbow to get yourself into a sitting position. But no using your abs or legs to help! (Remember Derek is paralyzed from chest down)  Well. I am going to guess that no one actually tried to do that but take my word for it, it is really difficult. Moving from that position will be the way Derek will need to lift and move himself around.

In between sessions, we also take medicine breaks, bathroom breaks, and breaks to meet with doctors. Honestly, our day fills up very quickly. He is usually finished with everything around 4 and then we fill up our remainder evening with visitors, games, a movie, or just trying to catch up on catching up. Visiting hours end at 8, so I gather up my stuff and head back to the condo.

So now you know more of our daily routine!

They did a doppler scan yesterday which showed NO blood clots in his legs (Wahoo!) which means we are able to participate in the  exoskeleton study. This is a big deal and we are very excited. If you want, search Exoskeleton suit and you will now know why Derek insists I call him Tony Stark.

Derek did get transferred over one bed to the room with a view. We also got a new roommate, Ryan. Ryan is awesome and around our age. He has a spinal injury as well from a dirt biking accident. We are very thankful that God provided Derek with someone who he can relate with a little more.

For this weekend, please be praying for Derek's heart rate. It is still very high and they are not sure what is causing it to race.

We appreciate you all!

With Love,

The Lavenders