Updates, news and announcements (most recent ones listed first)

7 OCTOBER 2007
Brooke was scheduled to have surgery this Friday, but has a cold and an ear infection. The decision was made to postpone the surgery. We're still waiting to find out when the new surgery will be scheduled...but hopefully, it will be done before the end of the year. In other news, Kathi was recently called as an early morning seminary teacher. For those of you who read this and are not LDS, a seminary teacher teaches from the four books of Scripture (Old Testament, New Testament, Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants) on a rotating basis. Teenagers between 9th - 12th grade come to my house every morning (during the school year) at 6am where we discuss the Scriptures and learn verses. It's certainly going to be an adventure! And finally Daryl gets his wish - a wife who is an early bird and not a night owl!

5 AUGUST 2007
Recently, we went to Syracuse to visit specialists who work with children who have VCFS (velocardiofacial syndrome), which is the name of Brooke's disorder. We also turned that time into a special tour of some church sites, including Palmyra, the Hill Cumorah and the site where the Aaronic Priesthood was restored. It was a faith strengthening experience. We were also able to go to lunch with one of Daryl's uncles. The twins will be giving talks next month on what they saw and felt as they visited the Sacred Grove and other important sites.
Brooke now has a special Caring Bridge website to update family & friends on her upcoming surgeries and needs. Please visit her site for more information on her visit with the specialists and future events.

17 APRIL 2007
We have a date in late June for Brooke's "modified posterior pharyngeal flap" palate surgery. We're going to spend time getting her ready for the surgery by visiting all her specialists, including the cardiologist, to get approval to proceed. She will also need a scan of her arteries (to make sure of the carotid placement, which can be "off" in kids with her disorder) and will also need bloodwork. There is a 70% success rate and there is a 30% chance she'll need a follow up operation. But we're hopeful that she'll do very well. The goal is to have improved speech and we're willing to do whatever necessary to give her the best chance! Keep us in your prayers. We'll update you once we know more.

20 JANUARY 2007
Later this afternoon, we'll be going to Chris' basketball and having a small birthday party for Brooke, who is turning 4. The children's grandparents, as well as their uncle and his girlfriend will be onhand to watch the game & celebrate Brooke's special day. Photos will be forthcoming, but for now, here are two... One of our new entertainment center & TV in the living room and the other of the girls' new bedroom furniture (and linens by Pottery Barn kids).

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2006