Grabbing the Bull by the Horns

     Tomorrow is a big day for all of us.  Our public schools and Amarillo College both begin the Fall semester.   Mariah is ready to knock out the final steps in one leg of her journey.    Arranging her class schedule around what Libby might need is just one of the gracious sacrifices she has made.  Without Mariah's help we couldn't have gone and learned as much as we did this summer.   She's been a one woman force and I remain grateful for the time with her and all her help.  Having a grown child willing to be with you and offer help (insist on helping) is a special kind of gift.  

     Libby is registered for two glasses within her art certificate program and wait listed for another.   Our goal remains to keep her happily going and out of the house for as long as possible. 

      Rachael is taking over as head of her English department.  I couldn't be more excited for her and for her campus.   Knowing the big shoes she's filling has made the transition daunting, yet there is nothing Ms. Rachael Collins can't handle.  

 

      The spasticity in Libby's legs continue to cause her to have legs that stiffen and hurt if they have to bend.   It is a part of the Parkinson's and Dystonia.   She has been complaining more and more and all we can do is hope one of her pills will help it.  Mild stretching and massaging also helps, but she's not big on either most of the time.  We have an official, and insurance approved, date for her Baclofen pump installation.   We had to finagle quite a bit, but we have the date.  Botox in October and Baclofen surgery in November.    (I'll announce the date once I've talked with my bosses.)  

     We originally had this surgery scheduled for July 5, but insurance cancelled.   http://libertyslymefighters.blogspot.com/2016/06/we-are-on-go-morning-has-been-beautiful.html

 

 For more information on this implant http://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments_and_procedures/hic_Intrathecal_Baclofen_Therapy_for_MS 

     For this semester I have a set of goals that are so important to me that I am afraid of voicing them.  Excitement for the incoming seniors and my continued focus  on allowing choice in their reading and quadrupling the amount they write have driven me throughout the summer.  I am always willing to be reassigned, but I was delighted that I would remain working with seniors.  Truly, everyday I get to teach is a good day.   Truly. 

Indeed, we are blessed! As we move forward we will not shirk away from our challenges- we will grab hold and conquer.  This only works when we are united in our endeavors.  

Thank you all

for your kindness.  Be blessed.