June 9,10,11,&12

Day 117,118,119,&120
Tomorrow is the four month mark on this journey of ours. That's 17 weeks today, and I can hardly believe that it has not been longer, yet it has gone by quickly in some strange way. Time warp, or being taken out of normal routine, stress, busyness, whatever it is, it is June, and summer is upon us. When Glenn went in, it was -38 that morning, and was the coldest week of the winter. Things are so green now, I hope he can get out to see it soon.
The really big development over the weekend was some movement in his right hand. He looked amazed and disbelieving but sure enough his pinkey was moving. By Sunday morning he could move his thumb, and tonight he had all but the ring finger showing some life. What a relief! It will come more quickly now that a pathway has been forged, so he will use it more all the time. He will have a swallowing assessment tomorrow, and perhaps he will soon be eating. That is the biggest obstacle remaining, so here's hoping. He does swallow better, but whether he can actually start to take anything by mouth will be decided tomorrow for the next 2 weeks.
Glenn has been given a conditional license to drive his power chair, and he does quite well. He can motor around with a bit of guidance, and likes the independence it gives him. It is a bit big for him, so I hope he gets a smaller one of his own soon.
I've been training at the store, and took care of it myself today for the first time. I don't think I had any big problems, but I will find out soon enough. The lawn mower continues to give us headaches, but I'll try to keep it going. I might have to call in someone with a bit more mechanical knowhow if it doesn't respond to my band aids better than this!
People I meet are still passing on prayer wishes for us, and I do appreciate the concern for us. It is a real slug fest now, and I will admit I'm tired of the drive, and would like to stay home and work in my yard more. But when I get into Glenn's room and say hi, and we start to talk about what is going on , what needs to go on and the usual stuff we always talk about, then it's OK. This is what we have to do now, and next year will be different. He gives me strength to keep going, I'm there for support. I will start to do a bit more of his care in preparation of his visits home, so that is a good incentive.
'Til next time,
Louise