Abby update - April 30

Shhhhhhh--don't tell any doctors or therapists or teachers, but Abby's staying up way past her bedtime this evening. The Spurs' playoff game is finally on network TV, and Abby and Frank are such big Spurs fans that we agreed to let them just bed down in front of the TV. It's okay--Abby's morning homeroom teacher (A.K.A. me), told her she could sleep into a little of her math time tomorrow--just this once...

I think Abby's like most 7th graders these days and has just a touch of spring fever. Sometimes it's sometimes hard to know what's still injury recovery and what's a typical adolescent. Would Abby before the accident still have lost her spelling workbook today and have no clue where it is? We'll never know...so I'll just pray for recovery both from traumatic brain injury and from being 13... ;-)

Go Spurs Go, Go Abby Go...!
Love,
-the Linams

Abby update - April 27-29

Well, I rolled in late Saturday night from Wichita Falls only slightly behind Gordon and the kids and their busy weekend. But, I've got to tell you that Mr. Mom did a great job negotiating a full kid schedule, along with a little help from our friends...

Abby reports that she had a great time at the sleepover at Taylor's; that she had a good ride on Merlin at the therapy riding center; that she enjoyed going to agility with her agility friend, Mr. Pelton (and that Arby did well there); and that the HCCS pasta festival and talent show was fun.

Frank reports that he and dad had fun practicing lacrosse, that several friends watched his Yankees do well in winning a little tougher baseball game (the coach sent Frank in as relief pitcher with the innings loaded; Mr. Icewater-in-his-veins closed out the inning with only one run getting in, went three-up and three-down in the next inning, and got the save), and that the pasta festival talent show had far too many little girls turning cartwheels for his taste.

A special thank-you to Mr. Pelton for sharing part of our family's weekend. Wade has always encouraged Abby in her dog obedience and agility ever since she began working with Amigo about four years ago, and he was another of those faithful who stood near us during Abby's recovery. (Here is a picture of him bringing Shadow, his bearded collie, to visit Abby at Warm Springs--as you can see, Shadow really made Abby smile--she has that effect on people!). This weekend he not only took Abby and Arby to their agility lesson, but he also attended Frank's baseball game and shared some very special gifts with him, including a baseball signed by Bob Cerv, an outfielder for the Yankees and the A's, who also happens to be Wade's brother-in-law. So many people have cared for our whole family in so many ways...it's nice to know that, if I have to be away, friends like him and others are nearby. Thanks, Wade...

Finally, I just wanted to share some "make-up" Easter pictures with you. The weather was finally warm enough for Abby to wear the pretty dress her grandma sent, so we took some pictures with our own wildflowers (and dogs, of course!).

Hope you had a beautiful weekend too!
-a very grateful Mom of Abby and Frank and wife of Gordon

Abby update - April 26

Well, I can't tell you how Abby is doing tonight, 'cause she's not here! She's having a sleepover at her friend Taylor's house. I'm sure there's lots of giggling, snacking, and practical jokes going on about now...

I have to take a moment to tell you about Taylor. She has been such a good friend to Abby (since they were 3 years old!), and, along with some other good friends, has been at Abby's side since the accident happened. I've truly marveled at how these young women (and a couple of young men) were brave enough to face the very frightening images in ICU, compassionate enough to stand by Abby's side and talk to her even when she couldn't talk back (and later, when what she said didn't always make sense!), devoted enough to stick with her through the very long rehab process even when their own lives were going on, and encouraging enough to make Abby feel so welcome back at school, at home, and at sports. Most of all, though, I have to tell you how their faith has inspired me. From early on Taylor told her mother that "Abby is going to be the same, God is going to make her completely well," and she's always acted like that. Wow--what a testimony of faith to all of us. Thanks girls--from Abby and her whole family.


How's this for a wonderful story of friendship and healing? (photo from Abby's 13th birthday party)



Now, I have to ask for your prayers for Gordon. No, no--he's doing fine, but tomorrow morning I have to head to Wichita Falls to teach another couple of workshops, and I'm leaving him with an itinerary that would make even Stephen Covey want to pull his hair out. Before I return on Sunday morning, he and the kids will have to make it to a physical therapy appointment in Austin, a riding therapy appointment in San Marcos, agility practice in Austin, team photos and a baseball game in Wimberley, a school fund-raiser in San Marcos, and church and a pot-luck in New Braunfels. Stay out of the way of that 2001 CR-V! Needless to say, we'll ask for your patience, as it will probably be Sunday before we update the blog.

So--we hope you have a fulfilling weekend too!
Love,
Lee Ann, Gordon, Abby, and Frank

Abby update - April 24/25

Did you miss us yesterday? Sorry about that. April is my busiest month, and I was in Houston dodging thunderstorms and teaching a frog workshop last night. Gordon did a great job stepping in to handle all the commuting, home-schooling, sports, work-outs, etc., but I didn't make him do blog duty too...

It was great to get home to my family, clear skies, and a beautiful evening tonight. We all took a walk after dinner. The kids spotted birds, identified frog calls, showed Gordon all the milkweeds with Monarch larvae, found Venus in the western sky--they're pretty good young naturalists. And then Frank identified his favorite outdoor sound--the thump, thump, thump of a basketball at the Taylors' house--so we enjoyed a visit there while he shot baskets with their son.

Life is such a blessing, isn't it?
Love,
-the Linams

Abby update - April 23

Seems like we're always singing "Take me out to the ball game..." around here...Abby worked hard to get her homeschool work, Hill Country School work, and music practice done early, so we could head to the ball fields once again this evening.

And it was another four innings--another Yankees win (I can't believe we Linams, with our Texas and Mississippi blood, are cheering for Yankees, but these boys are fun to root for!). Abby and I also got the chance to throw the softball around some. With her arm, I think the girl could still throw out a runner trying to steal 2nd--now we've just got to get those leg joints to cooperate in getting down into a catcher's squat.

It is still those small things that keep us working with and praying for Abby. She can run and throw, but her flexibility and agility aren't completely there yet. She can do math and English and science, but her memory and speed of processing just aren't recovered yet. She can play violin and piano, but her tremors and fine motor control still give her some trouble. She has come so far, but I know she'd like to be back completely...

And, so, as we give thanks along the way, please know that we still need you and your prayers...
Thanks...
-the Linams

Abby update - April 22

Happy Earth Day! The cloudy, cool, drizzly weather in Central Texas probably made the earth happy, but we humans had to find other reasons to celebrate. After a wonderful church service, Gordon, Abby, and I headed to San Marcos for Gordon to work at the Earth Day event at Aquarena Springs. The exhibits were nice (although I think my kids are pretty saturated [no pun intended] on Central Texas springs, aquifers, etc.), but the real joy for me was getting hugs from some friends we hadn't seen in awhile, all of whom were so very glad to see Abby there. The network of love and prayer that has supported us and Abby has been so deep and broad--it's touching to me every time I run into a friend, colleague, acquaintance, friend-of-a-friend... who tells me they've been thinking of and praying for Abby. She's a very special girl who has touched a lot of hearts--something that keeps giving me hope for the future God has planned for her.

Thank you for being a part of that web of life and caring for Abby...
-those "greenie" Linams

Abby update by Abby - April 21

I've been having a pretty cool weekend. Yesterday we went to the Bonsai Garden. It was pretty cool. Today we got to go to Frank's Baseball game. Grandma and Grandpa came to visit. We also went to the Butterfly Festival. In my spare time I've been having fun taking care of our friends' cats.


Now I'm going to bed, good night,

Love,
Abby

P.S. Frank's game stats [by Mom, not sister]: IP-4; SO-5; W-3; BA-.500; OBA-0.667; RBI-2; HR-1

Abby update - April 20

Well, we enjoyed our Friday, much as we anticipated. We did some chores, but also enjoyed our morning walk. We did some homework, but also were able to visit the local bonsai garden. Abby had a violin lesson, then was able to ride at the therapy arena. Frank did some pitching and lacrosse practice, but enjoyed pet sitting with me and Abby. I made everybody clean the kitchen this evening, but then we all got to watch Second Chances (well, I made them fold clothes while they watched the movie...). I guess the guy at the bonsai garden would say we had our Ying and Yang balanced today.

(Abby with worried look on her face, wondering whether her brother would stick up "bunny ears" behind her head...)

But, as I close tonight, I'm simply thankful for rich days and second chances...
Love,
Lee Ann & the rest of the Linams

Abby update - April 19

You all know that Abby loves Hill Country Christian School, but you may not know all the reasons why. There's no school there on Friday, so Abby and Frank are saying TGITh tonight! In fact, you can see that Frank and Arby are planning to sleep in...

Actually, we all love the concept--the idea that busy schedules keep families apart too much and that time with parents is valuable to a child's education, too. Friday, with its leisurely breakfasts, hikes around Wimberley, trips to the library, work on special projects, etc., is probably the kids' and my favorite day of the week. (And I usually get away with even adding in a few chores!).

Fridays off also mean that we can really enjoy Thursday evening activities, like tonight when we attended a farewell party on the San Marcos River for one of Gordon's co-workers, Tim. Tim and his wife Robin were among the first ones to join us in the emergency room at Brackenridge after Abby's accident--a source of quiet support that meant so much. At the party Robin and several others had their first chance to see Abby since her days in ICU. What a contrast! From ventilators, cranial monitors, and IVs to paddling canoes, throwing cast nets, and eating homemade ice cream! We've come so far...

Thanks to all of you who have been at our side at some point along the way.
Abby's family

Abby update - April 18

Wait, wait, wait!!!! You're at the right place!

Just wanted to catch you in case the new look threw you off. Today was a slow news day, so I decided to spend some time doing some blog maintenance. Many of you know that Abby loves the color green (most specifically, lime green!), and, frankly, that original template that our dear friend Harold set up for us was just a little too close to being burnt orange (apologies to our good UT friends), so...welcome to the new look for the Abby Linam blogsite! (I've also set up some of my older posts in archives, so hopefully that will make the page load more quickly.)

Today was a good day. Abby had a great day at Hill Country, where she was able to get a lot more work done than usual and take her first test since returning to school there. When she left this morning she and I felt pretty good about her readiness (it was in Life Science, so that helped), so we'll hope the score turns out well too.

And, after tonight's game, the Yankees remain undefeated!

Keep on prayin'...
-the Linams

Abby update - April 17

Not too much to report from today...Besides school the kids and I squeezed in a swim at the San Marcos Activity Center. Then Frank accompanied me to Austin for some work, but his primary motivation was to obtain some lacrosse equipment. For some reason the kid's developed this fascination with lacrosse (maybe because it involves a ball...), so we offered that he could get lacrosse equipment for his birthday in order to try out a camp in Austin this summer. I don't know much about it, but, based on the equipment required (a helmet and lots of pads), it must be a lot like hockey without the ice. That might make me worry, but my co-worker, Marsha, who loaned Frank some of her son's equipment, said it's not too hard on moms to watch. Anyway, when Frank got home he had Abby throwing a lacrosse ball to his new "stick." Just what we need--another hobby!

And now everyone's in bed, so I think I'll head there too (after I put a load of laundry on, get some bread started for in the morning, pay a couple of bills, and take a look at Abby's math lesson--but you've probably heard that joke...)

Good night!
Lee Ann, Gordon, Abby & Frank

Abby update - April 16

Things are feeling all too normal around here right now. Frank is giving Abby a hard time about spending too long in the bathroom, Abby is glaring at her brother because his latest pesky activity was squirting her with a watergun, the discussion about who should get the watergun out of the trashcan has led to some pinching and yelling--yep, we're a typical family with a 10 (nearly 11)-year-old and a 13-year-old....

But our day started out peaceably. Abby enjoyed a morning walk with me, the dogs, and Frank before doing a little homeschool work. She joined classes at Hill Country Christian School at 11 a.m., and I found a chance to speak with her teacher, Mrs. Doncov. I'm very encouraged about her sensitivity and optimism for Abby. Ever since Abby was in kindergarten I've felt like Hill Country was a safe, encouraging and nurturing environment, and I'm so thankful that the school is there for Abby now.

This evening was special as well. Frank had baseball practice, and Abby joined us there after school. We threw the softball around some, but she also tried out her bat for the first time since the accident. She was doing great hitting some soft tosses! Her form is still there (thanks Coach Amy!), so we've just got to work on the speed and strength. In fact, we thought she was going to have to step in and join her old team for their game this evening, but their missing players showed up just in time...I think she was ready in spirit...

Things have settled down now around the bathroom, and Hank the Cowdog is waiting for me and Frank, so I think I'll sign off...

In His love,
-the Linams

Abby update - April 14/15

We had a relaxing weekend, so relaxing, in fact, that I took last night off blog-duty. Actually, I think you'll excuse me--it was Gordon's and my anniversary, and we decided that the computer was not the place to celebrate it!

We had decided that Abby needed some rest this weekend, so, other than a group violin lesson on Saturday (she played for two hours!), a movie with her dear friend Amber, church this morning, and a book report this afternoon (she did a great job on that!), she took it easy. Okay, maybe that doesn't sound too easy, but she did get some MASH-time (she loves that show!) and some down time with her dogs, which made them all happy, so I think she'd say it was a good weekend.

Frank had a good weekend, too, as the Yankees stayed undefeated. He pitched the entire game, and, though the Reds were doing some good hitting, the Yankees defense backed him up for another win. He also got a couple of hits and several RBIs.

Tomorrow we start our new school plan. I'm looking forward to it. We'll start out at home, where I'll help Abby with her math and English while Frank's also doing his schoolwork. Then Abby will get to finish her day at Hill Country Christian School, joining her classmates for science, social studies, and volleyball. She's very excited about this arrangement, and I'm so glad to see her stress level down. I'm also hopeful, that, if we can keep things simpler, perhaps I can find time to get Abby to write a few more blog posts for us--that should keep our readers happy!

Stay tuned!
Abby's gang

Abby update - April 13

Well, I promised some photos from that special trip to the zoo, so here they are:



Today we dropped by Wimberley Junior High to "un-enroll" and to say thank you to the teachers and counselors who were so compassionate to Abby there. We were very impressed by the character and concern of the Danforth staff and will miss them all, especially Mrs. Ruiz, who did such a good job of guiding Abby back into her schoolwork, but, as for Abby, she is still celebrating the idea that her life will not include the complexities of the unfamiliar school on a daily basis. We are still hoping to work out a way to use the public school speech therapy services, so perhaps we'll get to see our friends there from time to time.

I tucked a work trip to Austin into this afternoon's schedule before taking Abby to riding therapy. She was riding Merlin around the barrels and the poles at a trot--they're looking really great together! But we're all looking forward to trying to keep the schedule simple this weekend.

Have a good weekend yourself!

Love,
-the Linams

Abby update - April 12

Today was a day of respite and renewal. Abby had appointments with her rehab doctor and neuropsychologist at Warm Springs this afternoon, so we just decided to take the morning off from work and school as well and enjoy the day together.

Abby, Frank and I headed down to Brackenridge Park and the San Antonio Zoo together for the first time in a long time. When they were youngsters we always enjoyed picnicking there along the river and a walk through the zoo, but the last time we were there it was just me and Frank trying to enjoy a picnic together while Abby was in Warm Springs, still unable to respond. The weather that day was so cold and dreary and so was my spirit.

Today there was warmth and sun again. Abby packed a picnic lunch for all of us, and, after enjoying it, we headed to the zoo. It was the treasure I had hoped. There was a lot of construction going on at the zoo, but Abby kept us enthused with her appreciation for everything. I think our favorite part was an aviary where you could feed nectar to lorikeets. Seeing all the bright little lories all around brought back great memories of our trip to Australia. (So did the lazy 'roos in the paddock next to it...)

Our appointments with the doctors went well too. I went in with lots and lots of notes, hoping that they would help us sort through these school decisions, and came out with a real sense of peace. Both doctors independently said that they thought two different school settings and regimes were too much to place on Abby right now. They both suggested that we enroll her at Hill Country (her original school) as her primary school and that I work with her for a few hours at home each day on subjects where she needs more guidance (they had great faith in me--perhaps more than I did...). Interestingly, this option was also Abby's first choice. I think I've been trying too hard to accept everyone's offer of help, to utilize the best of everything available to us, but now I can see that perhaps that wasn't the best approach for Abby. What she needs most is a familiar and comfortable routine, surrounded by friends, with a devoted family ready to help her through the hard parts. Did I hear anyone say, "Duh?"

And, once again, Dr. Leonard left us with inspiration during her fast-paced visit (remember the day she shot over her shoulder "She's in there, I know it..."?). Today she was telling us about her most recent visit with Priscilla in El Paso. Priscilla is now able to stand and walk a few steps! (Rosa has had to have an even greater measure of patience than was granted to us). Anyway, Dr. Leonard said that Abby and Priscilla were her two milagras, her two miracles.

A miraculous gift from God to praying doctors, families, and friends...
Abby

P.S. I'll post some pictures of today's outing on tomorrow's blog. Right now my camera is with Gordon, Frank and Frank's friend at the Newsboys concert in San Antonio, and I'm not waiting for them to get home...!

Abby update - April 11

Things went well for the Linams today. Schoolwork takes Abby a little longer these days, but today she seemed to have gotten quite a lot of work done and then enjoyed volleyball practice and a walk with Arby after school.

This evening Frank had a baseball game, and, though Abby and I had planned to leave a little early to go to a 4-H meeting, at the end of three innings it was tied 7-7, and Frank was pitching. During the top of the fourth Frank struck out two and threw home to get another base-runner out, but one runner managed to score, so the Yankees had to score during their last at bat. They managed to get three runners on base and then Frank hit a hard single up the middle to score two and help the Yankees remain undefeated. So what if we were 20 minutes late to the 4-H meeting?--We couldn't miss that exciting finish!

Plus, it was just wonderful to be outdoors this evening--maybe all that cold, wet weather last week was sent our way to help us appreciate days like this...

May you have a good one tomorrow...
-the Linams

Abby update - April 10

I had conversations with more people with big hearts today. I had the chance to visit with some of the teachers, therapists, and special education staff at Danforth this morning. Abby took the morning off from classes, but I dropped by to check in with the staff there. We had a good heart-to-heart talk, and I came away realizing how much they care for Abby and how dedicated they are to finding the right approach for her. We talked over some options that we can explore with Abby and her neuropsychologist, and I left feeling very comforted that we will be able to again find the right balance for her schooling. Thanks for wrapping us in prayer.

The rest of Abby's day went well. She and her dad did some weight-training after school, and this evening the whole family enjoyed finishing up some of Grandma Linam's desserts and playing Cranium (I tried to burn calories pantomiming at least!!).

Here's believing that the sun will come out tomorrow (it better--it owes us a few more hours!!)...
Lee Ann, Gordon, Abby & Frank

Abby update - April 9

Well, I've done it again--let another late night slip up on me. It's easy to do when when we start the day with homeschool, Wimberley school, and San Marcos school, and then tack on some speech therapy, basketball and volleyball practice, music practice, a baseball game, and concession stand duty. Now, I'll admit that schedule includes activities for two kids, but, still, there's only one of me!! (And my sidekick, Gordon).

Actually, I decided to see a little more of what Abby's schedule feels like today. She was just really reluctant about heading to Wimberley Junior High this morning, so I asked if she'd like for me to accompany her to her classes. That seemed to make her feel better, so I tagged along, welcoming the opportunity to get a feel for what that setting is like for her.

I think I have a better empathy for her anxieties now. While Taylor Schaede has been so wonderful in helping her get started each day, the friends that she occasionally encounters there are glad to see her, and many of the staff there are very sensitive to her needs, I think she still feels like she is in a unfamiliar setting, surrounded mainly by strangers, trying to keep up with a unfamiliar schedule. That may be true for any kid in a new school, but for Abby right now learning new patterns and schedules is difficult, schoolwork is more stressful, and forming new friendships is more awkward.

The situation is just the opposite back at Hill Country Christian School. Abby is so happy to arrive there every day, she speaks to everyone, knows her way around, participates in everything, and every student, from little 2nd graders to big seniors, seem to find ways to encourage her. At Wimberley Junior High she feels all alone, while at HCCS she feels surrounded by love.

I think we'll be reassessing these school decisions this week and trying to find a different approach that fits Abby's educational needs, but also fits her emotional needs. I think we may need to challenge institutions to get creative, but that's their job--to educate individuals in the best way possible. We also have appointments with Abby's rehab doctor and neuropsychologist this week, so perhaps we can tap their insight as well. I sometimes feel selfish continuing to ask for your prayers for so many little things along the way, but, still...please pray for us and for Abby in these decisions.

And we, in turn, are praying for you...
Love,
-the Linams

Abby update - April 8

I just thought I’d let a few photos fill in Abby’s news from yesterday.

I really love these photos of Abby and Cheyenne. Abby was so happy to see her, and it really shows in the photos and in the way Abby handled her. Cheyenne has enjoyed her “vacation” with the other horses, however, and I’m not at all sure she’s ready and willing to be “mastered” by a young rider again (she never has been very “willing” or completely trustworthy in that regard). Please pray for us as we need to make wise decisions about Cheyenne that keep both Abby’s safety and emotions in mind. For the moment, we very much appreciate Greg and Linda (and little Kayla) who have been providing Cheyenne with a good home.

All in all, it was a good weekend. It was our first trip “home” since Abby’s accident, and, at each stop along the way, I found myself giving thanks for family and for the blessings of our lives. It was so good to be with grandparents, aunts and uncles, and cousins (of our kids), along with old friends who have been faithful prayer warriors, and, despite winter’s last gasp, it was good to be overlooking the Austwell bay at sunrise this morning, giving thanks for life and Love.

With love,
Lee Ann, Gordon, Abby and Frank

Abby update - April 6/7

Hey Guys,

We've been on an Easter Trip. I got to see Cheyenne. She's still a wild-acting horse. Uncle Greg and Aunt Linda have been taking good care of her. She's living in a big pasture with Aunt Linda's horses. She really likes it!

The weather has been really horrible, so we've been inside eating and playing. When I was at my Grandma and Grandpa Linam's house my mom and I took a walk. In the morning I'm going to check my Easter basket and go to Easter sunrise service on the bay with Grandma Johnson.

Love ,
Abby

Abby update - April 5

Today was just another "regularly-scheduled" day in our lives. Abby dutifully attended classes at Wimberley Junior High (despite her lack of enthusiasm, her teachers there are really watching out for her, especially Mrs. Ruiz, who is now her math teacher), then cheerfully attended classes at Hill Country. After school Abby and Gordon went by the San Marcos Activity Center to pump some iron (you should see her biceps!), and we all enjoyed some time outside with the dogs this evening.

We're looking forward to spending Easter weekend with our families. The idea of sacrifice and new life has extra meaning for us this Easter. To realize that God's plan was to see His child suffer and die for us is nearly incomprehensible love, but to know that the final gift was life that would not end is the greatest hope imaginable. May you have some time to reflect upon life and Hope this weekend...

Love,
-the Linams

Abby update - April 4

No parties or celebrities today, so I just thought I'd share a picture of the kids with some of the bluebonnets at our house. Although cars aren't exactly pulling over to plop their kids out, it's our best crop ever!

I think today was a pretty good day for Abby. Her friends said she's getting better in volleyball all the time and even got some spikes over today! And, though Abby still didn't have much good to say about Wimberley Junior High, this evening she said that she would really miss art class there if she didn't get to attend it..."even if there are only boys in the class," she adds. (Her father is glad to hear her still speak of boys with such distaste...).

Frank, his friend Alex, and I finally got to take a walk again this morning as part of our homeschooling PE. We and the dogs really enjoyed the crisp air, though it put a damper on the boys' plan to swim in the pond this afternoon (that plan lasted exactly 8 seconds, I think). Frank's primary complaint about his school right now probably has to do with pronouns. (Can you name all six types???)

Now I think I'll take my husband's advice and get to bed a bit earlier...thanks for continuing to read and pray...we feel the strength it gives...

Love,
Lee Ann, Gordon, Abby and Frank

Abby update - April 3

As I mentioned yesterday, today is the six-month anniversary of Abby's accident. Like birthdays after you reach 40, when you're recovering from head injury you don't always look forward to these milestones--after all, the statistics tell you that recovery is greatest in the first six months, or at least in the first year, or maybe in the first two years...and, honestly, Abby still has some struggles physically and cognitively that I don't want to embrace in another six months.

And so--I made myself once again look back (by the way, I finally decided I needed to copy the blog to a back-up Word document--It's 152 pages long!!). And once again I gained courage. We have come so far when nothing was guaranteed. And so once again I plead with God for patience and grab hold of hope that Abby can still travel much farther. Here's the road we've traveled so far...may it give you hope too...

October 3 – Day of the accident. Abby was unconscious and intubated at the scene. Doctors in ICU at Children’s Hospital of Austin placed her in a drug-induced coma which was to last for 13 days, and our lives were changed.

Oct. 4-Nov. 3 – Abby awakened and was transferred to Warm Springs Rehabilitation Hospital in San Antonio where she started intensive daily therapy. Her swallowing reflexes were good and pureed foods were introduced. Though she was awake, we were frightened by her lack of responsiveness. It was not until November 2 that we perceived interaction with us. On that day she laughed!

Nov. 4-Dec. 3 – In this month Abby went from standing with much support to moving around the therapy gym with a walker. She learned to use her hands to grasp and throw things. She learned to speak again (though sometimes the right words were hard to find), to do math, to read, to write!

Dec. 4-Jan. 3 – What a lot can happen in a month! Abby began walking on her own, eating "real" food, and then got to come home from Warm Springs in time for Christmas! At home she was walking up the hills of Hoots Holler, playing her violin, typing on the computer, and training her dog. We celebrated a joyous Christmas!

Jan. 4-Feb. 3 – Abby rode a horse for the first time since the accident. She loves her riding therapy! We also started a therapy program at St. David’s Hospital in Austin. Quickly Abby learned to balance on one leg, to hop, and to swim. We also began school with a homebound teacher. Abby’s grammar skills remained good, while we began working on rebuilding some of her math skills.

Feb. 4-Mar. 3 – During this month Abby learned to skip and run. Her memory greatly improved, and she was better able to be responsible for her own daily routine. She began enjoying reading a book on her own, though certainly not as quickly as in the past.

Mar. 4-Apr. 3 – Abby is back in school and loving being with her friends at Hill Country Christian School. Additional classes in a new setting at Wimberley Junior High are a challenge, but Abby is hanging in there. One proud accomplishment: She ran Arby in a dog agility trial in March, something we had not dared hope for until perhaps this summer!

With hope,

Abby's family

Abby birthday update - April 2

What a special day. I think I’ll let Abby’s birthday cake sum it up:


Today was a wonderful day--for what it was and what it represents. Abby had a fun birthday party at the San Marcos River, and friends of all ages stopped by to wish her well. We have been loved so well by so many people, and today was just another illustration, as Wimberley friends, Hill Country Christian School friends, and Texas Parks and Wildlife friends stopped by to share food, hugs and well-wishes. The "teens" (including their most recent addition) spent most of their time in the river (or contemplating getting in the river), but Gordon and I were encouraged by all our friends and colleagues who also shared our joy today. (And we couldn't have pulled it off without major assistance from some TPWD friends--thank you SO much!).

We are so thankful for our 13-year-old daughter--that she is here, that she was given to us and given back to us, and that she reminds us to be thankful for each day and for what it represents. Tomorrow will be six months since Abby's accident and maybe I'll spend some time looking back at what each month represents, but today Abby just helped me be thankful for this day. Even tonight, she was the one who made us all notice the beautiful full moon. That's the way Abby lives and thinks right now--her memory is improving, and sometimes we see glimpses of typical teenage distraction, but mostly she just notices life around her. Through her eyes I feel like we have been given a gift of new sight, and I hope that we will treasure that insight long after these days of recovery are behind us...

I know that many of you feel that you have learned and grown through Abby's experience. Perhaps that is the work that God needed to do through this ordeal. So, we say both "thank you" for being there, and "you're welcome" for allowing Abby to touch you...
With love,
-Abby's family

P.S. I also want to share some good news from Abby's very special and wonderful brother. After Abby's party we hurried back to Wimberley for Frank's baseball game. Frank was pitching tonight, and though he's always a little nervous when he pitches (he never shows it), he pitched a full game, allowing only one run and getting 10 strike-outs. It was a very special day for everyone...

Abby update - April 1

Today was a fairly normal day for us (not too many April Fool's suprises--other than the blue milk this morning). We had a great church service, followed by a party for Abby's youth group. Since not much news happened, I thought I'd just use this opportunity to repeat the invitation to Abby's birthday party tomorrow. I've noticed that the template on the side is sometimes slow to load, so just in case you need the details again:

CELEBRATE!

What: Abby’s 13th Birthday

When: Monday, April 2, 4-6

Where: Old Fish Hatchery Building, San Marcos Plaza Park

Why: Because we can!

Please drop by for some hamburgers, music, and fun and games. The Old Hatchery Building sits on the banks of the San Marcos River at the intersection of Hutchison Street and C.M. Allen Parkway. You can park at the hatchery building or, if space is limited, at the Lion Club’s tube rental site and then walk across the river on the footbridge. Bring your swimsuit if you like.

No gifts for Abby please. We ask only for your presence, not presents. If you would like to bring something, then Abby has requested that guests bring toys for Austin Children’s Hospital (see list below March 29 entry) or dog food or supplies for the San Marcos Animal Shelter.

Call 512-847-9480 or 512-656-1222 for more info. Hope we can see you there!