Tuesday, May 3, 2011

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!

may3a

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

may3b

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.

may3c

12 comments:

Elyssa said...

I think you are doing a wonderful job of parenting. That made me cry. Beautiful.

Becky said...

I agree with Alice, and from what you've shared about Anna's spina bifida, I think she's doing great!

Anonymous said...

I don't post too much about Julia's cerebral palsy either, and usually it's to complain about my annoyances with the therapists or what not. I don't want to pretend she's *not* different, because it's obvious she is. But if I talk about it too much, people will just see *that* aspect of her, and I don't want it to define her.

Meg said...

I think you are doing a great job! Clearly, Anna has done so well because of you guys! I find what you share about Anna's SB to be so very interesting, it absolutely helps me be a more compassionate person. :)

And can I say that popped collars on kids are just ohsocute!! :)

Anonymous said...

Awwww. Yay cute boots... It's gotta be tough to be that age and not being able to quite do the same things as your sisters... *HUGS to mama*!

Samantha said...

She looks so young in those pics! Super cute!

Ami said...

good job mom!

Hope's Mama said...

Beautiful post about your beautiful girl.
xo

Leigh and Andy said...

Love it!! I found your blog a few months ago and have been checking in on your adorable family ever since! My 2 year old son, Greyson, also has SB. I'm always trying to guess which cutie is Anna and never can...i love that she is redefining SB in her own way...with pink cowgirl boots!

JourneyWithTheCrosiers said...

One of my favorite posts yet. :) Not only do I think your girls are absolutely adorable and love hearing their silly stories and gorgeous pictures, but I am very interested in Anna's Spina Bifida. However, I like that you don't post about it very often...because it does NOT rule your life. Beckett's SB doesn't ruler ours either. Sharing with other families that life does go on beyond that doctor's appointment when you get news that you are certain will effect every minute of your day. But then it doesn't. Then your baby is born. Then you do what other families with small children do. Then you just live!
Thank you for being so honest...I'm a faithful follower!

Wendy said...

<3 love Anna and her momma.

Mr. Kimkovitch said...

I really enjoy your blog posts especially the photos of your triplets. They are so cute. Anna is an inspiration.

I totally understand where you're coming from pertaining to your post. I have a daughter who was born with a CHD. My daughter had corrective open-heart surgery at 6months of age. I don't talk about it as much as I should, and sometimes I forget because she's perfectly capable of living a normal life. For me, I never want her to ever feel ashamed or embarrassed about her condition. I want her to be able to share freely so she can inspire & help others who are affected. She is our hero. :) Many blessings to your family.