October 12 Update

It’s been a long few days and nights. We took AnnaMaria back to the pediatrician today and she still has an ear infection. We have new, stronger antibiotic and trust all will be well soon! I hate for people to meet her when she’s not at her best. She is so friendly by nature, but when she feels bad, she’s not so outgoing.

Life has been a whirlwind here with lots of “firsts”. AnnaMaria enjoyed her first family meal at Grandma Wanda’s house celebrating Jeff’s birthday. Lily and AnnaMaria were in the Mule Day parade with Grandma and Grandpa Great. She met the extended family at Grandpa Great’s 90th birthday party.

The Big Kids were out of school this week for fall break. We all spent the night in St. Louis last Sunday night. The guys went to Phoenix for a short business trip and AnnaMaria had her first mall shopping trip with the girls. I have to say, I don’t miss hotel life. I think I got my fill of that for a long time this summer!

We had an evaluation from First Steps and we plan for AnnaMaria to start physical therapy a few times per month. At eleven months, her gross motor skills were at about an 8 month level. We don’t think this is too worrisome given her background. She is quite proficient at scooting and is starting to show some interest in pulling up.

She likes to scoot across the wood floor to the tile floor in the kitchen which she knows is off limits. When she gets to the tile she looks at us and shakes her head “no”. If we aren’t looking she proceeds onto the tile! Ahh…another strong willed Douthitt woman.

Life in the new house is still busy. We continue to have a few workers coming and going (ahh…the conferences I’ve had with men in my bathroom). We’ve had a couple of snakes, at least three mice, and we see raccoon tracks up the spiral staircase to the deck. A few evenings ago, there were four deer in the valley behind the house. We enjoy some of the wildlife more than others, but life in the country is quite wonderful! We are so very blessed!

We have a big weekend approaching with Corn Day in Carmi (Jeff & Sharon’s home town) on Saturday and AnnaMaria’s baptism and family birthday party on Sunday.

Please say a special prayer for my friends Julie and Kelly who are in Guatemala on pick up trips!

Blessing to all of you!
Sharon