Blessed with Health

Our little Ari has been doing so well. About a month ago she had croup and she made it through without having to go to the hospital. She was able to maintain her oxygen levels and was comfortable, in spite of her noisy breathing. We have been so grateful that the surgery was a success and that she has not had one hospital visit this winter. Last year, if you all remember, she was in the hospital every month from October through January. We praise God for His goodness to us.

Ari has a lot to say these days. She mumbles a lot, as if she's having a conversation but she continues to say a lot of words too. I've mentioned her love for "Dora" so she has a pretty good vocab with "Dora" show words, except for "Dora" she doesn't say that. She says, "I did it, Boots, and for Swipper, she goes, "Ooooooh." It's really funny. She says, " I don't know, poopy, apple, bobo, thank you" (which is pacifier), and all the kids names, including my name. Carlos calls me and she repeats him. She signs a lot of things too, like eat and please. Oh yeah....and of course she says, "No" and "Mine."

She's still a little wobbly with her walking but she gets around well. Her hair is getting long and her bald spot, from lying in the same spot after surgery, is growing hair. She is a real busy body now. We are still waiting for more teeth. She has two teeth, we took her to the dentist, they took an xray and said they are all there (as if they wouldn't be). But I was still worried it was taking so long. The dentist said she'd have a heck of a teething time, since they all look like they are coming in at the same time. She'll be 2 soon. I'm constantly amazed when I think of this road we've been on. We've learned so much. One of the many lessons have been the importance of depending and trusting in God, He has never left us, and has carried us through this.