Wednesday, August 26, 2009

SIX MONTHS TODAY


Where did the time go? As of 5:29 p.m., Andrea is celebrating her 6th month birthday! I cannot believe we have reached this milestone.

Andrea continues to progress. We try to give her breaks from the oxygen cannula, allowing the tubes to rest around her neck or below her nostrils. That seems to provide enough oxygen enrichment to allow her to maintain decent saturation levels.

We were blessed to have a visit today from Deacon Diane Riley. She officiated at our wedding (along with The Rev. Gray Lesesne) in May of 2007, and has provided emotional and religious support since January 2009, when our world was turned upside down. Andrea was in a good mood, and actually smiled for Diane! Ken has commented that Andrea is stingy with her smiles - she doesn't give them freely, but she was passing them out today. Diane prayed for all of us and gave Andrea (and me) a blessing. For a lot of reasons, we've opted to postpone Andrea's Baptism until the spring. Since we're not able to bring her to church right now (because of the risk of infection) it was wonderful to have the home visit.

Andrea is moving toward sleeping through the night, but she's not there yet. Last night, she was out from 7:30 p.m. until 3:15 a.m. The right number of hours at the wrong time of day! Today, she's being contrary, and has been crabby for much of her waking time, except when Diane was visiting. She would only sleep in my arms, although she's eaten pretty well. Oh, well... she's been a challenge up until now, and will probably continue to be one for the rest of her life!

Andrea's doctor has told us that we can be outside, but we should avoid being in buildings, since germs collect in the enclosed space. Since it has finally stopped raining, more or less, we've been going to the town pool. Kenny gets a chance to play with his friends, and Andrea gets some fresh air. I have to say, she seems to thrive on the attention she generates. Because of the cannula, people frequently come up and ask questions, and I love having the opportunity to tell her story.

"Few things in the world are more powerful than a positive push. A smile. A word of optimism and hope. And you can do it when things are tough."
Richard M. DeVos

3 comments:

  1. I was all smiles reading today's post! Happy Birthday, Andrea!!!!!!!!!

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  2. And I bet everyone loves to hear such a positive story about one tiny baby with a huge spirit (and her brave family, who cope with obstacles as they arise, with hope and joy in their hearts)...
    Happy six month milestone, Beautiful (really beautiful) Andrea the Second.
    God Bless and much love,
    sue x

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  3. Happy birthday you beautiful little angel. I guess I should be honored that Andrea gave me 2 smiles when I visited with Adrienne!

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