Happier Days

It has been almost two months since I have blogged, I have to say I have missed it but it's always good news when I have nothing to report. Ava is doing fantastic! On February 10 (two years to the day of her first visit) she had a check up with her Endocrinologist. In the last 6 months Ava grew 1 1/2 inches, gained 3 lbs and her hormone level is in normal range. Yeah!!! We still need to take her for an x-ray to get her bone age checked but all is good.

On top of the world!

It's a wonderful feeling to see Ava just be a kid again. She has embraced her new found freedom but it has not been as easy for me. I still worry about her during certain activities but at least I no longer jump at every fall. When you watch her walk, skip or run you would never know she had surgery. In November Ava started ballet and she is really enjoying herself. Mid January was parent observation, this was the first time I could visibly see her limitations. Her right hip does not have full rotation so it makes it difficult for her do some of the moves. I have to say it broke my heart a little to see her unable to sit 'criss cross applesauce' or sit in a 'V' sit and keep her back straight. She tries hard and I love her determination but I think next year we need to do tap or hip hop.

In February Ava attended her first gymnastic party since surgery, I was very nervous about this. I gave her my normal lectures on the way about being careful. Her response was "I know Mom, I'll use my muscles and my core to be strong. If anyone is being to rough in the bounce house I will move away." She's got this down pat! Needless to say she had a blast! Her favorite activity was swinging on the rope and  dropping into the foam pit. My heart was in my throat watching her but the joy on her face washed that away. We survived! I'm not sure why I worry so much, Ava is the strongest little person I know.

Ava has embraced Kindergarten. She has made friends, joined Daisies and wants to play t-ball in the spring. Hard to believe in 3 months it will be 2 years since her first surgery, she has come a long way. On March 28 Ava goes for her hip check up. I have no doubt her x-ray will be perfect. For now life has finally returned to normal chaos along with Ava's feisty personality. (That's putting it kindly.) I'm always proud of my girl and feel so blessed that her recovery has gone so well. As always, thanks for all the love and support!! xoxo

Beautiful Princess!