Hello!

Well, we seem to have settled into a bit of a routine at home (whew!) Brett spends the day in his office on the phone (buy stock in Verizon, with all his talking the stock is bound to go up) and working on the computer.

Christmas Tree season is near. He is busy organizing, ordering, delegating (the best he knows how) and marketing. We are not certain how much he can actually be out selling trees due to the cold weather and the environmentals of navigating a tree lot. Some are dirt, some are parking lots, but they are usually covered with snow, and hopefully crowds of people. He has visions of being driven around to the four tree lots, dressed in a Santa suit, rolling down the car window, puffing a cigar, nodding with approval at the activity and productivity, and moving to the next one. Just kidding (I hope).

Brett continues to get stronger, but hasn't seen significant changes in sensation or movement for a few weeks. Do not lose hope!! This healing process takes months, and even up to a few years. We all need to be patient, optimistic and determined.

The homecoming was wonderful, but so bittersweet. There are days that are full of fun and laughter and smiles, and some days that really suck. Fortunately, we have always had a great balance between the two of us. If he is having a super crappy day, or frustration levels are brimming, I am the calm. And the opposite is very true. If I seem to be boiling over with negative emotion, he can put things in perspective and together we know we will weather this storm.

The kids have found a new routine with their Dad. It is a little sad to see how quickly they are having to grow up and take on responsibilities that are usually reserved for kids a little older, but they are living up to the expectations and needs of the family. They collect the electric blanket for Brett and turn on and off his wheelchair at any chance. They watch for bumps in the sidewalk, and look for doorways that are wide enough for Daddy. They can move his feet so they fit in the elevator gate, climb up on his lap without stepping on his feet or disconnecting any of the buttons, switches or cords. They love to heat up food in the microwave-pushing buttons, and popping the door open. They have taken to drinking with a straw for all meals as Brett has to. Cole especially finds comfort in the lap of his Daddy when things aren't turning out the way a three year old expects they should. Caroline is ever the caretaker. She is always concerned if Brett is complaining of pain, cold, or discomfort. She anticipates how she can help, and beams that huge smile when she has helped make her Daddy feel better.

We have been told the first year home is really the hardest time of transition. I would have to say, based on all the changes, adaptations, and limitations we would agree. This is tough. We know together, we will get through this. Whatever "this" turns out to be. In the meantime, we really do try to live in moment, breathe, and look forward to tomorrow.

Many of you know Brett's Mom's Bizzy's Birthday was yesterday, November 2. It was a tough, tough day for Brett and our whole (extended) family. Here's to you Bizzy, We love you and miss you.

Much Love~Kelly