Nov 21st 'Step by Step'

First off, it was very so wonderful to see my mother! I can not begin to tell you the feeling that came over me when I walked into my mother's room......

Second, my mother looks like a new woman since I last saw her. She had her hair done and just looks wonderful.

One of the first things I showed my mother was the 'updated' pictures of her grandkids. She was very excited to see them. Then she chose two of the pictures to add to her display.

Yesterday we did a lot of catching up. After meeting all of my mother's therapists I truly believe my aunt and I chose the best rehab center possible. Nick, her speech therapist took a good 30 minutes to explain my mother's speech, eating and listening skill development(s). He was very confident that my mother is ready to 'graduate' to solid foods with the exception of meats.

CAN YOU SAY WOOOOOO HOOOOOO! Of course Betty and I made sure my mother was aware of how proud we were to hear that her diet was going to change from 'pre chewed food' as my mother put it (great sense of humor) to solids!

This morning, Betty and I arrived for breakfast. Nick had a one on one session with my mother to ensure she was eating, chewing and swallowing properly. After their session, Nick let us know that she did a good job but that she may need assistance until she is able to consistently eat safe.

To explain a bit, my mother has a little difficulty using the R side of her mouth (chewing and swallowing) therefore she needs to chew and swallow with her L side until she is able to strengthen her R side.

When I got off the plane yesterday, Betty said, 'I forgot to tell you the good news'. During therapy on the paralell bars Wednesday, my mother was able to move her R leg to take a STEP!!!!!!!

She repeated the same thing yesterday! Today during therapy she was not as successful to move her R leg. However, my mother is also doing squats with both legs and I think that she was sore and tired.

I will write more in the morning.

I LOVE YOU MOM!