Wednesday, October 24, 2012

The surreal feeling of 5/4 time

5/4 - or any five-beat time signature - has an unevenness to it: 1-2-3 1-2. 1-2-3 1-2. We're finding our way with the five beats in our family. Eight days after Graeme's birth, our biggest concerns have shifted from "When will Sara leave ICU?" to "When will Sara's shoes fit?" (A trip to Brown's for clogs may be in our future.)

Her recovery thus far has been so swift, it boggles my mind almost to the point of questioning whether what we went through last Tuesday really happened. We still have a long road ahead as Sara's swelling dissipates, her incision heals, and she regains her stamina. Graeme's first checkup was a reminder that it did happen. His doctor and I spent equal time talking about Graeme and Sara. (Graeme is doing well, by the way.)

As Sara continues to recover, our attention to find our rhythm as a family of five. Our return and the departure of my parents has unsettled the girls. Hanna had never spent so much time away from us before and has been fussier and clingier than usual. Slane has regressed a little and her play has also changed, adopting new storylines from life events. Tonight, her Grover doll had to visit the doctor and used a breathing machine.

Support from family, friends, and neighbors continues to pour in. Meals, dishes, yardwork, cards, prayers. It's a little overwhelming. One of the lessons you have taught us is that it is much easier to give than to receive. We thank you for all that you have done for us during this difficult time.

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