Good morning everyone!

I think this website is becoming a little like a FAMILY website, as I seem to have news about people other than just Rita, Lauren and I!  I would like to give a virtual high five to Malahide's newest deputy mayor, Mr. David Mennill!  The election took place yesterday (for those of you who don't vote or follow politics), and Dave took over 1100 votes, while his worthy opponent received not quite 700.  I forget the actual numbers, but I think Mr. Deputy Mayor will have a good following.  Congrats Dave.

Lauren has now been placed on her ventilator that she will be coming home with, and Saturday night had a bit of, what I will call a "hiccup".  Because her new vent operates a little differently from the one she was using, the medical staff tried their best to match the settings from her prevous vent, but like I said, they're a little different.  Lauren had a little dip, and her CO2 level went up in her blood and she was really working to breathe.  The staff started to wonder if she had collapsed a lung, but that wasn't the case (thank God).  Since then, the vent's settings have been tweaked, and she is doing a lot better.  If all goes well, to my understanding, we are now down to two weeks until we take her home, providing she stays stable on this vent for a week, and then she will be switched to the other vent we will be taking (which is the EXACT same as the one she was just placed on) and is stable on that one as well.

I'm STILL fighting off a cold, but now it's just more of a nuisance than anything.  But I don't want to bring it in to Lauren, so I've been trying to steer clear for now.  Rita's been keeping me updated as best she can, and by that, I mean when I see her!!  She's devoted a lot of time to learning Lauren's care, and as I've said before, she's nothing short of phenominal.  The grandparents of Lauren will be receiving training this week in ways of learning how to suction and change a trach.  Mom, Dad, Judy and Dave, let me tell you it's not as hard as it sounds. Remember a couple of years ago when you were first learning to drive...daunting right?  Once you learn, you're good to go.  There will be some times when you need help, and there's nothing wrong with asking for it.  That's what friends and family is for.  And I've truly learned that over the past few months. 

To everyone:  I've been told that Rita and I are an inspiration to you.  Our strength is derived from how you show your love and compassion, and coming to our aid in our time of need.  It's easier to walk away and ignore an issue, but through the kindess and generousity you've shared with us, you've acknowledge the needs of loved ones, and have shared what you can.  Everytime you do this, words cannot express our gratitude.  Whether you've taken us out for a meal, sent us a gift card for gas (which I have put to FULL use, let me tell you), sent Lauren the most ADORABLE outfits (and socks...let's not forget those), sending us financial assistance, or throwing up a prayer or two to the Big Guy, you've made a significant impact on helping Rita and I.  Thank you.

On the note of finances, I have to head off to work.  But I will post some pics just taken a couple of nights ago, so you can see Lauren and how much she's growing. 

May God bless all you, and thank you so very much for your love, support, thoughts and prayers.