Take A Peek

Take a peek inside Ashley Kate's new normal. She's getting stronger every day. Staying awake for longer and longer periods. Still just as beautiful as she's always been. We love her so very, very much. We hurt over her losses, but are all cheering her along each and every step of the way back. She has such a huge task ahead of her, but look at our daughter and tell us that she doesn't deserve another chance. She can do this if only given the opportunity. We are all behind her. Ready to give her whatever it takes to re-gain her quality of life. As you scroll through the pictures from the last two days imagine how very proud we are of this baby. My heart swells with pride as I watch her fight her way back into her life. Even in the midst of our despair and our hurt we are grateful for her life. Grateful that she is still with us. Grateful that we have these days with her.
Wishing she could climb back into her bed.

I still love to stare at her as she sleeps. Its in these moments that I get to truly appreciate her beauty and I'm awed at His handiwork.

Not really feeling too good on her birthday, but she did tolerate us for a moment or two.

This is the very first grin we have seen cross her face in over a month.

Thanks so much for all the flamingo goodies sent her way. These came to her a week or so ago and I saved them for the big day. Having Blake and Allie arrive made it all the more fun!

My dear friend Lou Ann has been by our side for almost 4 years now. Every time we are back in Omaha she selflessly comes to see my sweet baby girl. If its rubbing her tiny feet, filling her water cup, or holding her pillow up during therapy she is willing to love on my baby. Lou Ann, God blessed me with a precious friendship the day you walked into this PICU and I'm grateful for you. Thank you so very much.
Its tough on Ash each time we force her out of the bed. She hurts, and she is very weak. Little by little she's going to regain her strength. Its hard work. My heart aches as I push her to a little more each and every day. Tears do flow with the memory of all that she had and now seeing all that has been lost. She will get there again, but oh how it hurts to watch the struggle.

For a brief moment we saw a glimmer in her eye yesterday afternoon. I had hoped to catch it on film and so when I came across this photo my smile beamed. She's in there. Her spirit is strong. Her twinkly may be dim, but its still there. I can't wait to see her come back to us. My heart was encouraged.

Yesterday we climbed onto her Amtryke. Normal life for us. We pushed her through the halls of the PICU for 30minutes and watched her little legs go round and round. She hasn't got the strength to pedal for herself anymore, but she was able to balance and hold on with at least one hand. Day after day, ride after ride, she's going to get her life back. I just know it.

We are busy with details for tomorrows big celebration. Friends and family will be arriving throughout the day and night and into tomorrow. I'm nervous about getting everything to come together, but no matter what I'm able to accomplish it will be a day of celebration. Our sweet baby is 5 years old, with or without her "guts".

Just wanted to allow you to take a peek. Enjoy your day. Trish