Empty Nester

Its official.  Today is the first day of my Empty Nester status.  Kim and her family left yesterday to go home to Australia.  This morning we woke up to a totally empty home.  Strange and Bittersweet.  

Resolution

We took Kim to see Dr. Nicol, the neurosurgeon in Flagstaff.  He was satisfied with Kim's progress.  We found out that Kim has 4 screws and a metal plate in her head holding her skull together!
After a few additional xrays, the cervical collar came off!!  This is her infant son, Thurston, who has also been a trooper while mom has recuperated.  This will be my last post about Kim's progress after her terrible accident.  Thanks to all who supported us during our ordeal.  Kim will be returning to Australia January 23rd.  

Back Seat Crisis

My month of crisis continues.  Although Kimberlee continues to grow stronger and stronger, I have to return to the crisis in my life that took a back seat.  My youngest daughter, Kiersten, is moving to Australia.   

Kiersten turns 20 years old today.  She had eye surgery yesterday for vision correction and today she is on the couch recovering.  At least I get to have her at home:)  But I only get to have her until the 14th of January when she leaves for Australia.  If you have any questions about why she is leaving, just check out the picture.  Self-explanatory.  

Since David has been working in Tucson, we were home alone.  After Kiersten's surgery we brought home In-and-Out Burgers, rented a bunch of chick flicks and proceeded to watch 3 movies in a row on my bed.  I'm sure this was the last time my daughter will fall asleep in her parents bed.  It was a tender mercy for a mother mourning the loss of her youngest.  

I know we raise them to leave (I've done it 3 other times) but I didn't imagine the last one would be this painful.  The good news is I have faith in Kiersten's ability to make good decisions.  And just as her sisters have chosen well, she will also.