A New Day at Our Church

Our church is in the process of merging with another church - in our current building. Last Sunday there was a special prayer of dedication over the 3 pastors of this new church. It's exciting to see what God is doing in our church family. :)

Fall Festival in Our Community

Favorite Elmo Puzzle, Really

(She just doesn't like to get her picture taken sometimes).  ;-D

New Teeth from the Dentist

More Lego Building

Clara and Her Artwork

Post-Op Appointment

Lucas and I saw my neurosurgeon today! He showed us the video highlights of my surgery. Wow, both Lucas and I were pretty queasy by the end of the video, but it was amazing to see what he all did in my brain - in such a small space! My cerebral tonsils (the back of my brain) now have plenty of space in which to sit/hang; they are no longer being squeezed or bumping into my skull.  He said I'm "safer" now to engage in life activities (i.e. flying, scuba diving, running, etc.) than I was before surgery, and that I should be "fixed for life" as pertaining to Chiari anatomy.  Per his experience, any Chiari-related symptoms I've had should finish clearing up in the next month or so. However, any changes to my intracranial pressure (like having a head cold as I do now) may remind me of my Chiari a little bit, triggering a symptom or two.

Overall, the appointment was encouraging and reassuring to us.  And I was able to report to him that all of my symptoms have improved at least somewhat since surgery.  I would say I have regained about 70% of my quality of life thus far. I am very thankful!! :-D 

Thank you all for your prayers!

Yard Sale Finds

Another Bathroom Remodel Started - the Master

New Piece of Jungle Gym Equipment ;-)

Flashback Thursday

These nice fall days lately have been making me think of "winters" on Oahu. 

This was September 2010, Ko'Olina. :D  ...crazy how fast the babies grow up!

Rain Boots!

Brent's Reading Reward!

Brent finished reading 32 "BOB" books (primary readers), and so he earned his reward for these beginning efforts. :)  As we were driving to Toys R Us to get it, Amber said, "What does Mom earn, Dad?"  ...it's a joy to see Brent so excited by his new toy and his new ability to read! (Though I must admit, a trip to the Caribbean could be a nice teacher reward too. LOL)!

One More Dive

Post-Op Neurosurgeon Appointment Postponed

Lucas and I drove into Arlington today for my post-op visit with Dr. Wright. But shortly after we arrived, we were informed that Dr. Wright had just been called down for an emergency surgery. Bummer. We left my MRI CD for the him to look at, and I was told to expect his call next week. 

Apple Picking