My life in pictures

Tonight we three kids enjoyed a delightful time with Mom showing her pictures and video of the past 78 days of her life. (Actually, I'm sure all four kids were there -- Lynn wouldn't have missed this for anything!) Thanks to Jim Jr.'s love of photojournalism and his dedication to documenting Mom's progress, on the spur of the moment he was able to hook up his camera to the TV in Mom's room so we could witness together the journey she has travelled these past 3 months. It was humbling to relive the miracles that have been bestowed on our family and finally be able to share them with Mom. She was so coherent and marveled at how far she has come. In addition, she was able to provide some enlightening commentary from her point of view, which was fascinating. It was difficult to watch the situation unfold in the early weeks, and then equally thrilling to see her exponential progress these past two weeks. We are in awe of the way the Lord has blessed our Mother and each one of us. We have not walked this path alone.

Mom had a great day in therapy. She accompanied the therapists downstairs to the cafeteria on the first floor, without her wheelchair -- walking completely on her own, taking the elevator and all! Ruth, Alycia, Parker and Breck met Mom downstairs and she had a fun time visiting with them.

Although she went down to the cafeteria, Mom didn't want anything to eat. However, tonight we were able to discuss the reasons why food is so unappealing to her, and ask what would make the situation better. She gave us some suggestions as to things she would enjoy eating, but made it clear that food has never been something she cared too much about. (Goodness, I certainly didn't inherit that trait!!!) We are going to bring some items from home that she requested, and see if that helps.

Mobility wise, Mom is getting more steady by the day. Other skills are coming back as well. This afternoon she practiced writing her name, and tonight she stood at the sink in the bathroom and brushed her own teeth. Things are really clicking and it is so exciting to watch our Mother come back!

Thanks for all your love and prayers and support. Still no word about the appeal. Keep us in your prayers!

Jim Jr's comments. This morning, mom was alert as she has ever been. Speech therapy was right on task. Before physical therapy, after eating acceptably (she's not a huge breakfast person, but that's what arrives on her plate every morming) -- mom had to go the bathroom. She stood straight up, walked right to the bathroom, sat down, did her thing, got up, dressed herself, walked over to the sink, washed her hands and dried them and walked back into the room just like nothing! This is absolutely incredible!

She fussed with her shoe laces a bit. The physical therapist walked in, and she stood straight up for Alex. He just about lost it, because he hasn't been around for a few days. When we told him she had walked up and down a whole flight of stairs he couldn't believe it. Well, she started walking out of the room and right down the hall to the gym (some 220+ feet) without any complaint. She even walked fast for part of it! Alex checked out her knees and motion in walking and shook his head in disbelief that this could even be the same person he saw late last week (who was struggling to even get up off the bed or out of the chair).

This evening, though, mom didn't eat but a morsel or two at best -- and, as Diane mentioned, during our discussion about her lack of appetite (with we 3+1 kids), I gave her a bowl of grapes and Lays potato chips, which she promptly devoured and munched down before our very eyes! We ate a Big Cherry just before leaving and all had a good laugh. A most incredible day! Astounding! Amazing!

Mom, your goal of walking out of the hospital and going home will be realized sooner than you think!