Anna

I know I don't post all that often about Anna's spina bifida. I was thinking about that today and I thought I would post about why I don't post about it. The reason is that there really isn't too much to talk about. Anna's condition is such a normal part of our lives and thankfully, she hasn't had many infections or side issues because of it.

I wanted to post this to remind everyone that she does have spina bifida though. You all come here and view the pictures I have taken and read stories about my girls. You can see for yourselves that she's a normal four year old girl. Kids with spina bifida are just like other kids. It is possible for them to live happy lives.

I wanted to post this because I've been there. I've been in the ultrasound room when the doctor comes in and tells you that your baby has a birth defect. I've been in the doctor's office. You know the real office with a desk and chairs and Kleenex. The one they bring you to when they have bad news. When they need to tell you everything and give you your options.

And now, look at where we are today.

(Or last week.)

Anna picked out this green dress to wear to school and agreed to wear the jean jacket I picked out. Come on, Anna. Give me a smile!

See, now she is trying not to smile on purpose.

You can't really see it in the pictures but the dress had a polo collar on it and I had it sticking up. It was just so adorable.

Anna came walking into the kitchen holding her pink cowgirl boots. She wanted to wear them to school. Em and Allie both wear their boots (pink fuzzy and purple cowgirl) quite often. Because Anna has PT and can be unsteady when walking, we usually encourage her to wear sneakers or sturdy (aka easier to walk in) boots to school.

Anna started crying. Sad crying. She really, really, really wanted to wear her pink cowgirl boots. I cradled her in my arms and said, "I know it sucks being different. I know." And then I said, "To hell with it. She can wear her boots to school."

And she did.