Dear Family and Friends:



Wow... It has been three years since the accident on October 25th. It is hard to believe that it has been three years, yet in some ways it seems so much longer. Yet, whether long or short, God's grace has been sufficient for us, and I don't say that as some pietistic jibber jabber--I really mean it.

There have been some exciting things to report over the last month. Recently I went to the pool with Antonia and was completely shocked. Her mom stood about ten feet away while Antonia held on to the edge of the pool, then her mom said, "OK, swim to me Antonia." To my surprise Antonia fell forward with her face in the water and began kicking and stroking her right arm forward. I could hardly believe my eyes, there was my completely dependent wife, who can't do anything on her own, swimming all by herself! After about eight strokes she was at her mom and then she needed to be rolled over in order to catch her breath. What an encouraging day that was.



Another first has been the adventures in the hallway. A railing was firmly secured to the side of the wall down our long hallway, and with a brace on Antonia's left leg she has been able to practice trying to walk. It is always a delight to see her trying to get up and take hold of life and push forward. What an encouragement to us all when she says, "I want to do it one more time."



It is also a joy for us every time Antonia hears one of the kids play a familiar tune on the piano. If Azaleah or Isaiah even plays Three Blind Mice, and Antonia hears from the bedroom, she almost comes out of her skin with hoots and howlers of excitement. You would almost think she saw Bach himself rise from the dead playing her favorite piece. This brings a smile to all our faces.



From November 5th to the 16th we will be in Florida for our ten year anniversary. Please pray for our travels and the breakup of routine for Antonia. This could be stressful for Antonia, but we pray it is nothing but pure delight. We will be going with the children and Antonia's mom, Mary, as well.



Thanks you all for your continued support and prayers throughout our journey, we couldn't do it without you all.



Love,

Dean and family