Brynn "got her throat fixed"

Last week we took Collin in to get tubes put in his ears. The procedure only took about 15 minutes, and then he spent about 20 minutes in recovery waking up. We went home and that day he was either really cuddly and sleepy or he was acting like himself, climbing on everything and running around playing. We were joking that we should ask the doctor for more of the gas stuff they used to put him under, because he slept 7 hours during the day, and then slept through the night (yeah, we're back to the sleep issues). Hopefully Collin won't have the same problems with constant fluid in his ears now. Maybe he will even start talking a bit more/better now?

Yesterday was Brynn's turn. We got up before the sun was up and took her to the same surgery center with the same doctor and most of the same nurses, so she could get her tonsils and adenoids removed. Her tonsils have been huge for months now. She hadn't been getting throat infections too much, but she was having breathing obstructions in her sleep from them. As well as the obvious problem that is, it also has meant poor sleep which has resulted in increased problems with her behavior. She has also been getting hurt more lately, because the lack of sleep has made her less careful. It has been kind of rough, and we're just now getting into cold and flu season.

I felt fortunate that she woke up happy yesterday and was being really sweet and happy as we waited before the surgery. When they called us to the back, she refused to wear the gown or socks they provided, and started getting really nervous and uncooperative. However, when the nurses carried her in to have the surgery done, she didn't even cry. They said they were able to get her sedated while she was on a nurse's lap, and she didn't cry then either. We waited for about 40 minutes while they did the surgery, and then got to go back to recovery. She was still trying to come out of the sleep they put her in, but I got to hold her while she did. As she became aware of her surroundings, she kept staring at me and would frequently smile at me. She didn't talk much while she was in the recovery area, but the first thing she said was "I love you" to me (seriously melted my heart!). After she had a popsicle, we all got to go home. She has been doing pretty well considering. I have been warned that Collin's surgery was a piece of cake compared to Brynn's, and that the first couple days after having your tonsils removed are usually easier than days 3-5. I am so proud of her though. She has been so brave, and has been trying to do all the things the doctor asked. I am also so grateful for the support system we have as well. My mom got up early to come over and watch Collin while we were gone. My dad was with us at the surgery center. Dave's mom came over and read books to Brynn and watched Bambi with her. Brynn's Grandpa Ralph and Grandma Ida have called to check on her. My visiting teachers brought us dinner. My friend Kelly has also called to see how we're doing (from her couch on bedrest). I feel so fortunate to have so many people that are there for us, and willing to help us out when we need it. I know tonsillectomies are pretty common, but we have really appreciated the support and concern we have received. It is good to have the surgery out of the way and get going with the recovery. It will be so good to have it all done and out of the way.


Sleeping in the recovery area after the surgery (still not wearing a gown. I guess she was more stubborn than the nurses as well):

Her grandpa helps her eat a popsicle before she got to go home:

My dad with the kids after we got home:

Trick or Treat!

I think this Halloween was one of our favorites. Brynn had been asking for days if it was Halloween, so she could put on her costume and trick or treat. She was so excited when the day arrived, and her answer was finally YES! We spent the evening with our friends Scott and Kelly and their darling daughter Quinci at their neighborhood party. They had all blocked off the corner of their street, so there was plenty of space to eat, visit, and let the kids run around. And the kids took full advantage of all that space and the freedom of being outside. Brynn and Collin were running around splashing in any little puddle they could find. Then they took turns riding Quinci's scooter (I think I know what they'll be getting for their birthdays this year). They were loving it! After a yummy potluck dinner, I headed out with Brynn and Collin, the other kids and the dads from the party to do some trick or treating. Dave stayed behind to visit with the moms (poor guy had a bit too much Halloween candy and homemade donuts). Brynn, who usually won't go beyond 2 feet of me, quickly became brave enough to leave me at the sidewalk and go with Quinci and the other kids to the doors. I guess candy helps you get over your fears. She even held Collin's hand when he wanted to trick or treat at a couple houses. It was cute! After we went around the block once and their pumpkin buckets had candy sufficient to make them sick for days, we headed back to Scott and Kelly's house to get the kids in their pajamas and make the drive back home. It was a memorable night, and we're already talking about next Halloween. Here are our pictures from the night:

Collin the Lion & Brynn the Mermaid... (yes, I had to bust out the candy early for a little bribery. I know, I'm Mother of the Year.)

Brynn showing off her mermaid tail (or is it a fin? I'm not up on the mermaid terminology.)
Brynn's friend Quinci as a Bumble Bee...
Best friends!
Dress Up + Candy = Happy Kids
Collin was not too fond of this boy's costume. He got pretty freaked out when they crossed paths. Collin kept his eye on him all throughout dinner too. He didn't have to watch Star Wars to know that Darth Vader was a bad and scary guy!
One of the neighbors at the party had some little puppies they brought over. The kids were in heaven! Brynn was so sweet and gentle as she picked one up and held it. I think she could have sat there holding the puppy all night!
Collin on the other hand... He was just as excited to hold and pet the dogs, but he wanted to pick them up by their necks and give them a big squeeze. He ended up being escorted away from the area by his dad.So that was our Halloween. Each year just keeps getting better. We can't wait to see what next year will bring!

I forgot to add something. As we were getting the kids in their pjs last night, I wiped off Collin's bear makeup. Brynn saw him and gasped, "He turned back to my brother! His chops (whiskers) distappeared!" Kids provide the best laughs!