Saturday, July 5, 2008

How Sweet It Is

GOING HOME!!!

This is Monday night. Dr. Bernstein had come in a short time before and told us that Livi could go home tomorrow. Wild horses couldn't have drug that smile from her face!

Not only are "the Ellisons back under one roof again", as our loving neighbors have stated, but we are back and loving the fun that we've been having. Our "family" here in Vegas is getting to know the Livi that all of you have known since her birth. She has had so much fun, been so loving and nurturing, laughed an innumerable amount of times...it is SO SWEET! Her jovial spirit began Monday, June 30th when we began to get word that we may be heading home. The pictures that follow are simple captions of the joy for life that has returned to our little girl, and in turn our home. WELCOME HOME LIVI, OUR LITTLE LOVER!
Olivia's friend Hailey came to visit, with her brother Garrett. The three kids were able to make "sand castles" in the playroom. Livi was so pleased to be able to share her activities with friends.


Todd came with his mom and brother, Ben, on Monday. They had just come back from a beach trip and so they brought the beach to Olivia. They made her a sandbox full of San Diego sand and beautiful seashells. They also brought a box for Livi to make one for Aaron. Livi ended up only giving Aaron a little sand and one shell because, "He'll just spill it all and wreck it." Very true. Livi loved the sandbox and played with it the rest of the day. Sand was all over the room. We had to explain to more than one nurse/doctor. Livi taught Todd how to play "War". She creamed him! (Way to go Liv!) Todd is a great sport!Bill's mom, Grandma Susie, had joined us for an extended weekend and even stayed the night with Livi in the hospital Sunday. Olivia was so excited to have Grandma stay with her. It was such a blessing to be able to have her with us even if only for a few short days. She was a tremendous help to us all.






Friends from church have come to read stories/play games with Olivia. Aaron of course savors the extra attention as well.





Lots of fun things to do during the day. Above is "Aaron Vader" with his pal "Blue Man Brenley" from upstairs.



Trying to stay cool!









Kickin' back and watching a movie with sister has never been so good!















Livi enjoys playing nurse. With her new home health care, every night we "play" with needles and inject medications into her TPN. She gets to mix the formula and help get her line ready. It's really working out nicely.


We are so grateful to all the wonderful people who have helped us out this last month in so many ways. Phone calls, posts on the blog, cards, scrumptious meals,... the list is forever. We could not have made it through as gracefully without you. Thank you!

10 comments:

DeAnn and Bob said...

Wow!! These photos are priceless and warm our hearts. Livi's smile is so genuine and beautiful and we are THRILLED she gets to be at home. Enjoy yourselves and this time of healing and support. The sun will keep shining brighter.

Love, DeAnn, Bob, and Penny Lane

Julie said...

We have been anxiously waiting for the coming home pictures. Olivia looks so happy to be at home. She is quite the nurse mixing her own med's We are so happy for your family!
Thoughts and prayers are still going out to your sweet family.
Love,
Dan and Julie

Lovell Family said...

Rachel...I've been home in ohio and hadn't checked your blog for a while. I'm SO happy for you guys! Wow. Olivia looks so happy! I'll call you soon to check in! We love you guys!

Arna said...

Hi Team!
I'm so happy to know you are all home and doing well. I wanted you to know what an inspiration you were and are to me with your amazing strength of spirit. You continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. I am looking forward to more pix of Olivia the Brave as she becomes stronger and healthier on a daily basis!
All the best,
Arna

Steph said...

Thanks for a great fourth of July celebration. Your pictures are great. Todd still wants to keep visiting, Livi, even though you have the winning edge with every game lately.

williams family said...

Livi, you look so happy to be home. It looks like you are staying busy with friends and family. I love the pictures, even though I'm not there I get to see the little Livi I know and love. Welcome home sweet girl - enjoy each moment! We love you!

Gramatana said...

Wonderful to see these pictures. So glad you are back as a family and doing well. Luv ya, Cheri

Unknown said...

She's Baaack!!! You can tell she's getting that twinkle back in her eyes! That is a beautiful thing!!

Lots of hugs and kisses!

Tamara (& Scott), Josie, Isaac and Owen

Unknown said...

Thanks for sharing all the new pics of Livi, Aaron and all those who have visited Livi. It's wonderful to see her smile; and to see how much she warms the hears of others. You all will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.

love, cara

Unknown said...

Dear Livi with a v,
I read your blog everyday although I haven't been good at posting a reply lately. So, how are things going today? You are looking good!! I'm sooooo glad you can be home again!! I hope things continue to get better and better each day. We love you tons and pray for you everyday. We will be gone (Bear Lake) next week so I will check the blog before we go and again when I get home. Take care and have a great week!!
Love always and forever,
Aunt Voni with a v