4 Years!!

4 years ago today, Emma underwent open heart surgery. It was by far the toughest day of our lives. As a parent you never want to see your child in pain or have to struggle. We had to witness her struggle daily for 3 1/2 months. The day of her surgery was a blessing and a day we had to stay strong for our girl. God taught us a great deal about ourselves and the strength that lies within us. As the quote goes "you never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have." We certainly would not have been able to stay strong if it was not for our families. Sometimes people do not know how to comfort you when you are faced with a serious struggle but our family was right by our side and Emma's side, which was all we needed. When Emma was in ICU my in-laws pointed out that Emma should never be left alone. Everyone took turns through the days and nights to be by her side. The only time we were kicked out of her room was when they had to remove her breathing tube since she was capable of breathing on her own. Thankfully it was quick and they did let my father-in-law stay which put me at ease. The hardest for me was when I had to pump. Emma's room was in the tower located on the 17th floor. The milk bank was located on the third floor in another wing of the hospital. It was a hard part but at times a nice little break where I could refocus. Even though I do not have to make that trip to the 17th floor anymore, I will never forget what took place there and the people who cared for Emma. We were truly blessed with the greatest surgeon, nurses, and medical staff.

Emma the night before her surgery.

Emma 4 years later.

Two for the price of one

Where else can you go to get a check up from Dr. Abby and a haircut from stylist Emma, all at the same time?!

A mess or a work of art?

Since Emma dropped her nap she still has quiet time in her room. Everyday I ask her to not throw her toys and kick the door. I guess I forgot to ask her to not remove every single book from her bookshelf and line them up on the floor. She told me she was making something and kept referring to the "hop" game. Not really sure where she learned that but my only guess is Sunday School. I also figured out where all our books from the playroom have disappeared to.

She put in a few of her toys as well.

Later in the day she took her new artistic skill and used all the toys and books downstairs. I then discovered the amount of junk toys we have and will be making a trip to Goodwill.

In the News

During one of our music classes, the Austin American Statesman made an appearance to do an article on the class. It was published in the paper and it was fun to see all the familiar faces in the paper.

The article.

I tried to zoom in so that you could see me and Abby.

Emma was bummed to not have been at the class but her pretty face will be published in the school yearbook. What a cutie with that little tongue poking through.

Someone LOVES Pasta

Love is a slight understatement.

Too Warm

I am loving the fact that everyday we can be outside and enjoying the weather but I am worried about how warm it has already gotten here. There have been a few days where we need the water table to keep ourselves cool while we are outside.

Play For All Park

On Saturday, we headed over to Round Rock to try out a new park called Play For All park. It is park designed for children of all needs. Whether they are in a wheel chair, have sensory issues, or just want to burn off some energy, there is something for everyone. The girls loved the park and it was perfect for their age. Tons of things to keep both of them busy.

Having fun on the playscape.

Time for the music pod.

A little ride.

Lots of places to play peek-a-boo.

A peak through the dome.

Shopping in the little town.

Taking a drive.