Just when we thought things couldn't get any crazier....

I was determined that I would be gainfully employed by the end of July wellllll......Natalie's appendix had other ideas. I had no idea what any of us (she especially) were in for when she woke up with an upset stomach in the early morning hours of July 9th. What we thought was a 24 hour stomach flu quickly became something else when she woke up the next morning and said her hip hurt!!

After spending the day in ER it was determined she had Appendicitis and she was transferred by ambulance to Children's Hospital here in San Diego. Within 45 minutes of arriving there she was in surgery having her appendix removed. Good news was that they were able to remove it using Laparoscopy, bad news is it had ruptured; which lead to a longer than normal recovery.

8 days and 8 long nights she and Mom stayed in the hospital. I had the pleasure of sleeping on this chair that made into a twin bed, doesn't sound so bad, AS LONG AS YOU DON'T ROLL OVER! As much as I need a new mattress at home and making my bed is not my favorite thing to do I will never complain again about making the bed and boy was it nice to get home and sleep in my own bed!!

The best news is that Natalie is doing great, she doesn't having any pain from the surgery and just about back to her old self.

For all you parents out there who have never dealt with appendicitis here is what I learned in the past two weeks; Appendicitis is very common in children, for some unknown reason more likely to happen in the summer months, Children's Hospital performs 400-500 appendectomies a year. So if your child ever complains of a stomach ache or has an upset stomach with fever be alert to the fact that it could be their appendix and seek medical attention immediately.

Also, if you ever find yourself in need of services from Children's Hospital count your blessings they are there. We were so impressed by the quality of service and care that Natalie received they did everything they could to see that she was as comfortable as she could be. They are a first class organization.

Thanks to all who came to visit and called to check on her and sent their prayers and best wishes her way we all appreciated it so much!!

Love to all.......

First day after surgery; my poor baby.....

Four days after surgery and

thanks to Nurse Nancy she got to wash her hair!!

7 days after surgery and finally food!!

Natalie with her beautiful flowers
from her Awesome Uncle Johnny
and Aunt Dorothy...it even had
a giant chocolate bar!!