2010: A Year in Review

In January of this year, we found out we were expecting our second child. We were surprised but also knew she would be a little blessing from Heaven.In June we took Nicholas to Disneyland. I am so glad we went when we did. Nicholas was doing pretty well then and really enjoyed our visit to the "Happiest Place on Earth."

We spent most of the month of August at OHSU in the Children's Hospital. Nicholas had his g-tube surgery while hospitalized which helped him put on some weight. He only weighed 16 lbs when admitted and weighed 22 when he was discharged. He left a much healthier little boy. He got out of the hospital just a few weeks before his baby sister was born, which was truly a blessing.Elizabeth Rose was born on September 15th, a full five days before her due date. Labor and delivery was much better the second time around and Ella is a delightful baby. In late September and October Nicholas resumed regular physical therapy with his favorite therapists. He started putting on weight again thanks to his new g-tube.

In November our little girl started to become more interactive and alert. She started smiling, giggling, and playing a lot more this month.In December we went to a feeding clinic at OHSU and discussed a new diet with Nicholas's neutritionist. The Amino Acid diet has been a welcome change for him and has really made a difference in how he feels. He is so happy and feeling so good now-he has absolutely no tummy troubles and we couldn't be happier!Ella loves to bounce and kick her legs...thank goodness for the Jolly Jumper!

As I reflect back on 2010, I thank God for all of our blessings. Our children are such a blessing, as are our friends and loved ones. We hope that 2011 will be an even better year!

Wishing you all a new year filled with laughter, love, and happiness!

~The Gustafsons