Little Robo Girl

Our little robo girl is sleeping soundly in her crib(still in our room!) this morning. I peeked at that sweet face a moment ago and glanced at the robo arm who is in fact still flushing nicely. She's adjusting to it the best she can since she really has no choice. Signing is almost impossible. She tends to be right handed and since her robotic arm happens to be her right one then she has relied mostly on pointing to the things she needs this week. Her speech therapist is going to really appreciate this. Oh, well. Playing has been difficult as well. That silly left hand isn't enough to hold onto books and turn the pages with. I've resorted to propping books up for her while she lies down for a nap or for bed and she uses her left hand to point to all the pictures she would like for me to sign for her. It seems to be working. I've also watched her use her legs and feet to hold a book in order for her to use her left hand to turn the pages of it. Kind of funny to watch, but I figure its almost an act of genius and have really enjoyed watching her figure life out.

Yesterday the kids came home from school and both mentioned how sad it was that she can't use that hand. She sometimes forgets and reaches out for a toy with it only to discover her fingers are all wrapped up and that she can't hold it. This broke Blake's heart yesterday as he tried to hand her the beloved lady bug that she is never seen with out. Blake and Allison have never been stuck by a needle of any kind and they have a hard time imagining what Ashley goes through each week. The bruises on her hands, wrists, arms, and elbows are really bothering them. They are so tender hearted towards Ash and to listen to them talk to her as they help her play and read this week just blesses my heart.

The robo arm has become quite a game for Ashley Kate. Last night she lay in between Dave and I as we were visiting and she turned from one to the other smacking us on the head. It brought quite the giggles from her and she couldn't stop laughing as we yelled a loud, "OUCH". Of course it doesn't hurt, but she thinks its absolutely the best thing ever. You had better watch out because she'll whack you when your not expecting it. Blake was the recipient of one of those surprises yesterday and it cracked him up. It came out of nowhere and landed on the top of his head as he bent down to help her with something. She thinks she is so, so funny.

Its amazing to me what this child will adapt to. She pretty much goes with the flow and tolerates whatever has to be done to her. I had imagined this week to be a nightmare for her, but she is adjusting and learning to function the very best she can. Like always.

2 down and only 3 more to go. Hold on little robo arm. We have to make it to Saturday and then life should return to normal. You know, the vomiting and fevers, but were used to all of that.

Its Thursday and that means good things for me. I love Thursdays. Its the last day of Dave's work week and our weekend begins tonight! Tomorrow Dave and I will have the opportunity to finish all the little things we want to do before listing the house next week. Its going to be an exciting ride and I can't wait for it to start. Have a great day.