Baby Steps

Today was a better day than yesterday, just as we hope tomorrow will be better than today. We are all very tired--not sure if that's jet lag or from spending so much time at the hospital. Probably both.

Regardless, I am too tired to go through all of the details of today, so here are some highlights.

1. Help from family--everyone has been incredible. No one else quite compares. From the housing, transportation, food, hugs, visits, and love, I am truly blessed to be a part of the Johnson/Mason clan.

2. Hearing of Dad's more lucid conversations about politics with Mom and Noah early this morning. He expressed his angst against Reagan and his hope for Obama...all in true Neil fashion. He didn't return to such a conversational level the rest of the day, in fact, he still has a hard time remembering a lot of things, but things are still looking up.

3. Being able to spend my days with Dad at the hospital without having to worry about work or school. I am so thankful to be here to support my family (Plus, I don't think I would be of much use right now in a different state. Arizona seems like too far away these days). We made another huge move today by moving him to the 9th floor, acute rehab center. Progress is being made. It's slow, but it's there.

4. Spending extra time today with Unca, UB, and Uncle Ed. Plus, there was a surprise visit from Kira and a special, special note and present from her and Brian. Their thoughtfulness and care mean so much.

5. Knowing another day of therapy is done, which means we are one day closer to getting Dad home.

6. Phone calls from so many friends. If I haven't called back yet, I promise I will.

7. Making a CaringBridge website for Dad. Check it out here. Leave a note. He would love it.

7. And last but not least...as a fun memory exercise tonight, I asked Dad if he wanted to sing. He said yes, and so with the ArtBarn on our minds and The Chocolate Milk Cow open again this weekend, we sang some of our favorite songs. It was wonderful. We went through the lyrics together a little at a time, helping each other along the way. After he was tired and back to his short answers, but it was a great way to end the day.

So now we are all beat and headed off to bed. More adventures are to come, that's for sure.

Peace--
HGJ