Gavin's Anniversary Update

The mark of our Holiday Season is a little different from most. We begin giving thanks and reflecting on miracles on Novemebr 10th, Gavin's surgery anniversary date. That moment stands firmly in our minds as our beginning. It marks the birth of Chase and Gavin's second chance at life. As we reflect on the last three years, we're amazed that we've survived. Literally amazed that we are alive and still committed to each other and not just 'committed'. (wink)

Gavin continues to progress beyond all medical expectations. He's still not walking, but continues to scoot around the house and gain strength and coordination after his hip surgery. We just went to see the surgeon who said Gavin's right hip is healing very, very well. Lots of new bone growth, looks great! However, his left hip is now showing signs of becoming mishapen and easily dislocated. Yep, the left hip was perfect last June. The surgeon said it's not impossible to see this kind of change, but she's never heard of it before. Then she smiled, winked and said, "he's Gavin". If something weird can happen, it happens to him.

Gavin says only a few words, but understands everything!! Even though we say that, Brad & I are continually amazed at how true it is. He really understands everything we say. Even when we try to be sneaky, spell things and use code. If we talk about taking a walk, Gavin will start acting up and want to go THAT very minute. Even with code, he understands. Today when he was scooting I asked him to reach more forward (I'll spare you the technical explanantion.) and he responded by smiling straight at me and then flopping himself forward so his hand touched his toes and his head touched his knees. After two or three (flops) he looked at me, laughed his new 'Yuk, Yuk laugh', and began scooting with his hand as far behind him as he could have it and still move forward. The title of 'Smart Alec' has never been more appropriately used! I think he would spend most of his time grounded if he could actually say what he thinks.

I'll update on Chase, the Silly Pickle and Parker the little talker ina ouple of days. For now I'm going to try to post a few pictures.

Love,
The Tiehtofs