Still working on the video. Gotta get it down to a manageable 3 minutes, down from the hour or so of footage I took. Oops.

I took Annie to her 3 and 4 year old's class at church yesterday and she sat at the table with her friends. I looked around and noticed that Annie is just about the tallest kid in the class. She's huge. I was wondering why, when I picked her up, her feet would still be dragging on the floor. What's up with these huge kids around here?? Pretty soon, I'm going to be the shortest one in my house. And I'm 5' 10"!! Anyway--she seemed to enjoy being in the classroom. For awhile. Too much activity can overwhelm her--which is common for people with brain injuries. Or menopausal women. So we left.

Today we tried the swing again. I sang Kumbaya just like her cousins, Grace and Aileen. She seemed much more calm in the swing in spite of my singing and held on with both hands. Her right hand continues to make great progress in grasping, and now when she drinks water from the syringe she brings her arm and hand up to her mouth, instead of positioning her head to go down to the syringe. Does that make sense? I'm rereading that, and I'm not sure it makes sense. This is what happens when all your kids come home from summer camp. Concentration drops to the level of a gnat.

Jean


Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1

So--I was thinking about doing a video of one of Annie's therapy sessions. I'll see what I can do today, and maybe Bill can put it on the blog this weekend. I don't know why I didn't think of it before.

Annie is getting used to the seizure medicine dose, and so is more alert during the day. She took a couple of big jumps this week in her ability to use her right hand--she uses it regularly now to hold the syringe of water. Water seems to be very motivating to her, and she sucks it down pretty fast. Other foods still gag her, but I did get some milk down her yesterday. Maybe if I work from water to milk to whole milk to milkshakes...??

Like I said, the water is a big motivation, and now when I tell her I'm going to get water, she sits up, her face brightens in anticipation, and she watches me go into the kitchen and come out--visual tracking that is much more attentive. I've also noticed that when I bring in a syringe of medicine, she thinks it might be water, and seems disappointed when it's not.

Her facial expressions took a leap this week, too. I read a book about a doctor who had a head injury, and she actually would practice smiling in front of a mirror. I'm not sure Annie would get the value of that, so I play "This Little Piggy" with her toes, and when I cry "wee-wee-wee-wee all the way home," and tickle her under her chinny-chin-chin, the corners of her mouth turn up. Progress.

I also got some more responsive vocalizations from her this week. I say, "I....Love....Annie." "Now, your turn--". And she tries to repeat it. Usually only one syllable, but more progress.

Let me work on that video.

Jean

For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. 2 Chronicles 16:9

The news for today

We're drying out here after 7 straight days of measurable rain. Last night the highs were in the 40's & 50's--what a difference from a week or so ago when the thermometer topped 100.

Three of my kids are at Black Lake Camp this week, and the others are all working, so it's strangely quiet. If I cleaned a bathroom this week, it would probably stay clean for a day or two. That's IF I would.

Yesterday, I took Annie for a walk, then she spent some time riding on her trike and swinging on her new swing. PT Debbie came by and helped Annie practice her standing and walking. Her balance is coming along nicely--she stood in front of the living room chair for about 5 minutes with no help from Debbie to regain her balance. She also played with some "duplo" style blocks--a little Disney castle with princesses. She grabbed the princesses off of the castle repeatedly with her left (stronger) hand. She also sipped about 20 or 30 ml.'s of milk out of her syringe, and about 60 ml.'s of water through the day. Annie also smiled more yesterday--kind of like a half smile--and was more expressive than ever before.

Today OT Beth & speech therapist BJ will come by for a visit. And maybe I'll clean a bathroom or two.

Jean


I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:3-6

Six month mark

Six months ago we were sitting in ICU at Children's Hospital wondering if Annie was ever going to see, hear, walk or talk again. Praise God that today she can see and hear...and push toys, and pick up a spoon, and ride a trike! Six months is early in the recovery of a brain injury, and Annie has done well because God has answered many, many prayers. Thank you, again, for your faithfulness in lifting Annie up to the Great Physician.

Today PT Debbie helped her walk down the hall to her bedroom, where they sat at Annie's table and had a tea party. When Annie walks, I hold her hands in front of her, and Debbie gives her support at her hips--but Annie does all the walking herself. And today was the best yet. It is so encouraging that each day she seems more like herself, more "there" and more relaxed in her little body. She used to be so traumatized when anyone would touch her head, and now I can ruffle her hair with no screams or yells. Little things that mean alot.

Well--tonight we batten down the hatches because the weatherman says we're in for a Pineapple Express to blow through. Ahhh, gotta love that liquid Seattle sun.

Jean

Bless the LORD, O my soul;
And all that is within me, bless His holy name!
Bless the LORD, O my soul,
And forget not all His benefits:
Who forgives all your iniquities,
Who heals all your diseases,
Who redeems your life from destruction,
Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,
Who satisfies your mouth with good things,
So that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. Psalm 103:1-5

Check out the new pictures of Annie--she got a swing from cousins Grace & Aileen, and she's getting some help from brother Jack to swing in it. Or sit in it. She seems to have some anxiety about swinging right now, but I'll put her in it every day for a little more time each day, and pretty soon she'll be doing 360's over the top. I remember one of my other kids didn't like swinging. Or that's what they told their therapist. Anyway--swinging actually is very good for healing the brain, so a little at a time, a little each day. Thanks, Grace & Aileen--and I promise the next picture I post will be of her swinging AND smiling!

So--a few days ago I was reading an article written by a woman who suffered a brain injury when she was hit by a car at the age of 5. She said that after the accident, her family and friends would make remarks that made her feel like she was being followed by the shadow of a little girl who "used to be," and apparently never felt like who she was after the accident was ever good enough--either physically or emotionally.

It was good for me to read from her perspective--and it reminded me not to burden Annie with getting stuck in wishing things were the way they used to be--either in what I say or in any kind of nonverbal communication. I don't want her to feel like who she is now, or what she can or can't do isn't good enough. It's a tricky thing--because I DO want to do all I can and all I should to help her, while accepting her where she is today.

Okay--so she did her best walking EVER today down the hallway.

Jean


And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9

What'snu this week

It's almost 10 PM and I'm feeling a little sleep deprived, but I'll give you the Reader's Digest version on the ch-ch-ch-changes this week. I guess the first thing I'll note is that Annie is always changing--for the better--which is an answer to your prayers. Like I mentioned in a previous post, I really wish I could read all your prayers, and say, "Yes! That happened today!" or, whatever. The other day I was walking around the house feeling good about nothing in particular, and I thought, "I know people are praying for us--I feel it." So, just a reminder...when God brings Annie to mind, and you say anything to Him--He listens and ACTS.

Annie's attention continues to improve. I've noticed that she notices more quickly anyone coming into the living room, and her gaze shifts from person to person quicker too. The stepping and walking continues to improve. When PT Debbie was helping her walk down the hall today, she initiated the left/right thing without prompting, and she was more coordinated than ever before. Funny thing was, though, she didn't want to walk straight down the hall, but she kept pausing to look up at the family pictures.

Also earlier today, OT Beth helped her to hold the water syringe with her right hand, while Annie was moving her right arm up to her mouth by herself to drink. That was cool to watch. I imagine it won't be long before she is eating and drinking by herself. And--another answer to prayer--no seizures since July 4th!

With growing patience--

Jean

For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope. Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus, that you may with one mind and one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Romans 15:4-6

Sizzling in Seattle

Today was 89, tomorrow 100. I'm meeelllllting. I sent Bill down to Lowe's this evening to get a couple of oscillating fans. A couple was all they had left, so we lucked out. Miss Cindy gave us a portable swamp cooler and it works great--but we needed a couple of fans to spread the cooler air around. I know you guys in the midwest and south think we're wimps. Wimps we are.

Thanks for the movie reviews. My kids gave it two thumbs up, but thought the music was lame. Next time will be a silent movie with subtitles.

Back to Annie. She learned to do a few new things the last couple of days. She began using a sippy cup to sip water, and actually sipped rather than bit the mouthpiece. We gave her a taste of the formula she gets through the g-tube, but she preferred plain water. Using a cup, though, is a major accomplishment. Plus, she anticipated the cup coming up to her face and opened her mouth--intentional, purposeful and anticipatory movement.

Today she pushed the peanut exercise ball with both hands and arms with definite resistance to Beth, her OT. AND she grabbed a toy with her right hand. Remember, the right hand has been much weaker than the left, but is really making some nice progress.

She seems more engaged with what is going on around her, and is expressing likes and dislikes consistently. I WANT to stand up, I don't WANT to sit down anymore! I don't WANT to rock in the rocking chair, I WANT to go to bed! I WANT water, I don't WANT formula! She may be nonverbal, but she IS communicating loud and clear.

So--no more obvious seizure activity, and good gains these last couple of days. In spite of the heat!

Jean


It is good to give thanks to the LORD,
And to sing praises to Your name, O Most High;
To declare Your lovingkindness in the morning,
And Your faithfulness every night. Psalm 92:1-2

Trike Video--Link to the Left<-----:)

Click on the link to the left & check out Annie's bike video. She had a great first spin down the street--with many more to come this summer. Things are going well today--she hasn't had any more seizures in the last couple of days, and today she was a bit more alert because I guess her body is getting used to the medicine--both answers to prayer! This is a short update tonight--I need to finish getting her ready for bed, but Bill & I wanted to get this video up so you can all see how cool this bike is. Thank you all for giving to make this happen!

Jean

Happy 5th of July

Annie's seizure activity is back under control--only one seizure yesterday. Thanks so much for praying--she's been sleeping fine, and no seizures at night. We've gone up on her seizure medicine dose, and will again on Monday. We keep adjusting as she keeps changing.:)

We survived the neighborhood war zone last night...Andy & Katie watched the bombs bursting in air from the roof of our house. When we put Annie to bed last night around 10, she gave us a big smile and snuggled down into her blankets. She was probably hoping to get some rest from all the noise from the fireworks. The din finally died down around midnight--not bad for our hood.

Today my brother Jeff, his friend, Cathy, her daughter Natalie, Olivia and Katie are on their way to the zoo, but Annie & I opted out--we have a PT appointment this afternoon and decided to lay low. Hopefully we'll get her bike out tonight & get a video made--Bill said he could put up a link to You-tube and you can see it from there.

Enjoy the great weather today--it's wall-to-wall sunshine across the whole USA!

Jean

Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good!
For His mercy endures forever.
Oh, give thanks to the God of gods!
For His mercy endures forever.
Oh, give thanks to the Lord of lords!
For His mercy endures forever:
To Him who alone does great wonders,
For His mercy endures forever;
To Him who by wisdom made the heavens,
For His mercy endures forever;
To Him who laid out the earth above the waters,
For His mercy endures forever;
To Him who made great lights,
For His mercy endures forever—
The sun to rule by day,
For His mercy endures forever;
The moon and stars to rule by night,
For His mercy endures forever. Psalm 136:1-9

Two steps forward, one back...

It's these stinking seizures again. Annie had 7, yes, S-E-V-E-N "cluster" seizures this afternoon. (After having 4 yesterday afternoon and 2 or 3 in the middle of the night.) A cluster seizure is basically the same type of seizure she had been having, only one right after another. Oddly enough, she seems to have them when falling asleep, or when waking up.

So I called the doctor and she said to give the emergency medicine to knock the seizures out. Annie responded well, and slept for the rest of the day. The problem seems to be that we were going up too slowly on the new seizure medicine, so now we're going to be more aggressive and increase the dose more quickly.

Bottom line--please pray that this seizure medicine work, and that she have no more seizures. Or--that God would simply heal her brain!! Pray that she sleep tonight and not have any seizures at all. I sleep with the monitor next to my bed, but she really doesn't make much noise when she has a seizure, and I think God woke me up last night when she had them. I'm concerned about her having them in the middle of the night. Thanks for praying for us.

Jean

I'll take what's behind the box...

Or IN the box--the Box from Rifton that the UPS man drug out of his truck today. I was afraid to open it, because I'm so mechanically challenged, and I have repressed memories of listening to my dad putting together bicycles on Christmas Eve. But OT Beth made me open it, and fortunately, the trike was mostly assembled, and Beth was there to help me figure out how to put the thing together. So, it's REALLY PINK, and it's VERY COOL, and Annie LOVES riding it!! You'll have to take my word for it, until Bill videotapes her and can put it on the blog--in the next day or so. Again--THANK YOU--everyone who contributed to this great piece of equipment!

So--I do have some pretty neat progress to report today. Annie did a great job for OT Beth & PT Debbie--high kneeling, turning while balancing on her peanut exercise ball, and using her right hand alot. Now, she not only can gag herself with her left hand, she can gag herself with her right! (Don't tell her I said that.) Anyway--tonight, we were practicing sitting on her little black stool, and rising from a sitting position, and then sitting back down. She rose up on her own strength and sat down with control--not just plopping down on the stool. While we were practicing that, we were also listening to a music tape, and today was the first time that I saw her seem to REALLY try to say words--and she seemed so frustrated that they wouldn't come out. It was really amazing to watch. I was so happy to see the effort, but so sad with her that it wasn't all coming together.:(

One more thing--eating has recently been a real battleground--like more than usual, so I've been easing back on the whole food thing. But today after being outside on her trike, she seemed thirsty, so I took a syringe and offered her some water from it, and she sipped it without a fuss. Then tonight, she sipped about 2 tablespoons of milk from a syringe--without any fussing or gagging.

Sooo--just wanted to let you know that God hears your prayers, and He is answering. Thank you so much!

Jean

By awesome deeds in righteousness You will answer us,
O God of our salvation,
You who are the confidence of all the ends of the earth,
And of the far-off seas;
Who established the mountains by His strength,
Being clothed with power;
You who still the noise of the seas,
The noise of their waves,
And the tumult of the peoples.
They also who dwell in the farthest parts are afraid of Your signs;
You make the outgoings of the morning and evening rejoice. Psalm 65:5-8