One week later

Today is one week since Annabel had her surgery. Her palate looks so beautiful. She can slurp and drink from a cup normally and is starting to make some new noises. Today she said "no" and "on". As I have said for weeks she is trying to say things. She needed her palate closed to say it properly. It is soooo exciting for us to hear her talk. On a sad note...her recovery is so slow for her. She has been in a lot of pain. So much so that yesterday we took her to the Dr and he suggested we put her back on the Codeine. I hate to have her so doped up but it is the only way she can get any rest. Mark and I are grateful for the reprieve ourselves. After two full nights and two full days with out any sleep you start to feel like you are headed to the looney bin. Fortunately for us that is not on the agenda this week. We feel much more rested today then we have all week. She also has learned to wiggle her way out of her arm restraints. So we have her clothes in layers to help keep the restraints on and one of us are either holding or playing with her at all times. She is so sneeky and is learning new ways to get things into her mouth. Fortunately we have stopped her each time. I have to brag on my older kids a bit. They have been so helpful during this recovery time. Amber comes in from school each day and takes over for me without me even asking. She is loving that Annabel snuggles in the recliner and sleeps on her lap. Joey has helped in countless ways as well. I am so grateful to have their help. Thanks for your prayers, emails, phone calls and cards. We will keep you posted.