Friday, February 13, 9:05 AM

It's been another few days. Mom's feeling better and has been able to go up to see Jonathan during the day, and get her rest at night. NyQuil definitely helps with that. So, please continue to pray that none of us get sick again or that dad gets sick at all. We're trying to get the house germ free before Jonathan comes home. Praise the Lord - he'll be home in one week from today!!! February 20Th, Lord willing, is the date they gave us to bring Jonathan home. They've even begun, in the therapy gym, to show him how to get in and out of a car. So, we've got his room all set up - total makeover - and the house is all accessible for him. He's definitely ready and so are we.

Wednesday night I stayed with Jonathan. We just sat and talked for a few hours. We were both teary eyed at some points. I shared with him some of the miracles that God had done that he wasn't aware of - how the Lord dissolved the fluid on his brain, had him nod "yes" and "no" on Christmas day, etc. I read to him the blogs that I wrote about those specific events and the comments from so many of you that encouraged our hearts, urged him on and committed to pray for that very need. He was amazed and one of the few words that he could muster was "wow". Over and over again - that's all he could say.

We talked about how he felt about certain things and I was able to encourage him, while letting him know that those feelings are valid and it's OK to share those too. We reminisced about old times and talked about the future and what God might have in store. I shared some of my "scenarios" that I had dreamt up and asked him what he thought. He simply wants what God wants for him, and I assured him that's the best thing to want for and that's the best thing that he'll ever have. It was a great night, and one among many through this ordeal, that I will cherish.

Yesterday mom came to spend the day with him, and said he did great in therapy and was overall in good spirits. Dad came later in the afternoon, and I came back after work. As soon I showed up we got him in the wheelchair and took a stroll outside by the bay. We were all laughing and talking - just enjoying being out and being together. Jonathan is definitely back to his old self with all of his sarcasm and crazy humor. It comes in waves. On his birthday, Jonathan, after dad kept referring to himself as Dr.Newman and other such titles, said, "OK, your bishopness". I reminded him of that yesterday and it brought another big smile, which I love to see, and a big laugh from all of us.

Really, he's doing great - beyond what anyone, well, medical staff at least, anticipated. When they brought him in to the hospital they told us that he would be there anywhere from 3-6 months, 6 being the probability. He'll be going home days before we hit the three month marker!! Of course, he still faces a lot of challenges, so please do not be mistaken - your prayers are undoubtedly needed, but please be encouraged knowing - those prayers are working! We are seeing tremendous progress and we know the best is yet to come.

The most prominent need, amongst the many that there are, is for his sight. He still can not see at all out of his right eye. Though he can see out of his left, it is limited. He struggles to see out of that eye. So, please, as you pray for his recovery - pray for restored sight. We have told him, and read to him, the many times of those that God restored sight to. We can't wait to tell you that God has done the same with Jonathan.

Thank you all for your prayers. I asked Jonathan if there were anything he wanted me to say on the blog. The only thing he wanted to say was, "Thank you for praying". So, from Jonathan and from the family - Thank you and please, please continue.