July 30, 2013

We've been in NJ for a few days and we're still processing thoughts and emotions. But for now, to mark the one-year anniversary, some thoughts....

We saw Dr. Radcliff, John's surgeon, who was THRILLED with his progress. Dr. Radcliff said it best: "John, you've had a miraculous recovery!" He noticed the neurological effects when he examined John, obviously, but was very pleased the amount of function that John has regained.

Here we are, to quote my husband, "back at the scene of the crime":

A year ago today, our lives were forever changed (to fall back on a cliche). But a year later, by the grace of God, John is here with us, and he was able to share in these other life-changing events with us:

• Nora started school and had a fabulous kindergarten year.
• I learned how to make carrot cake (dangerous!).
• Nora learned how to pump herself on the swing.
• We learned that laughter goes a long way toward helping you cope with the unthinkable.
• Nora learned to read! In the past few days, she read her first 100+-page chapter book to herself.

And tonight we will have a quiet evening together, with dinner at Beau Monde (where we had our first date) and then we'll stay at a nearby B&B (a mini second honeymoon).