UPDATES

This will be just a brief update as I am about to head out to run a couple of quick errands, and then will be heading up to the hospital.

Mom's surgery went well, HOWEVER, he did have to go in through both the front of her neck and the back.  The brake itself was worse than he anticipated, and her bones were just too soft to not require the extra bracing.  Surgery took almost 4 hours which seemed like a REALLY long time.  3 hours later she still was not out of recovery so my sister and I were able to go into the recovery room to see her and she was just soooo out of it again.  Not totally unexpected of course, but I just HATE that.  I stayed with her for about a half hour and then left as not only had I been there for over 8 hours, but so that my other sister could go in for a while.  I was really glad I got to be with her for a couple of hours before she went in as she was herself, though of course very anxious.  We were able to pray together and she seemed ready for whatever might come.  This morning I talked to my sister who went down early to be with mom and she is STILL REALLY out of it.  They have ordered a brain scan test to see what else "might" be going on.  I have a feeling this might be a long, long ordeal.  Poor mom.  I am sooo grateful she has had such caring, sensitive nurses, and her doctors have been so skilled and good.

Melody has doctor appointments for both herself and Sam on Wed., so if all is well they will be coming on Thursday, and so "maybe" the following Sat. (the 5th of January) my family will finally gather to celebrate and open presents.  If all goes according to plan however, hubby and I will take down the tree and decorations and store them away.

Thank you so much for all the comments, emails, prayers and encouragement from you all.  I appreciate it more than you could know.  I am doing LOTS better.  A little sleep helps soo much, and a God who has so many ways of bringing comfort and strength is unbeatable.  Hope you all are enjoying your week-end!