Faster, Further, Longer, Stronger....

I am making this post to show my immense gratitude to my Father in Heaven for Matt's constant improvement. These pictures are from a few weeks ago when we walked along the trail that goes around the lake. It is hilly and uneven, and BEAUTIFUL. Last summer we walked regularly, but Matt could only go out a quarter of a mile. The other day when we walked we went 2 miles and Matt said he could go farthur but it was getting kind of cold! His balance is so much better, he walks faster, his gait is smoother, he has more indurance and strength. He also loves to go on walks and no longer sees it as a chore. It is definitely one of the best things we do together as a family. I love the quality time together.


Here he is just hiking along...he's so cute with his professional hiking poles (the best investment ever!) They give him more stability and confidence...plus, they look cool!

I cannot brag enough on how far Matt has come in the last year. Sometimes we both get discouraged and frustrated because we want everything NOW, but if we sit and reflect on how far he has come, what his abilities are, and his motivation to keep trying, we realize what true miracles have already taken place. I am awed and amazed at the way the last two years have gone. We were told that Matt would remain uconscious indefinately, and if he were to awaken, he would be in a vegetative state. We were told that he would not dress himself, eat by himself, or even be able to swallow. He likes to brag that he gets up and showers, dresses, (often before I get my lazy bum out of bed), and is able to eat (in LARGE quantities), ALL BY HIMSELF! hah! Those things are very simple for him.

I am so grateful though, because they weren't always simple. When he first came home from the hospital he needed constant help and care with every daily activity and task. He was confused, disoriented, forgetful, etc. He has come a long way, and we continue to see great and innumerable improvements and strides. He talks faster and more clearly, his long and short term memory are MUCH better, he maintains a sense of humor (extremely corny I might add), and still constantly shows love and devotion to Kaden and I.

Although I would never have dreamed we could make it through the things we have endured, and sometimes I lay awake at night wondering HOW we are going to do it....I wouldn't change my life. I LOVE my husband more than words can express. I LOVE my baby more than words can express. I LOVE where we live. I LOVE our wonderful, supportive friends and family. I LOVE the gospel, and I LOVE my life. I know things will all work out for us. We are happy and doing our best. I have so much to be grateful for and so much to share with those around me.






This is what really matters....our beautiful family.

I scraped this onto a rock for Matt....I DO LOVE HIM! When things are looked at through a proper perspective, we realize what matters most. Looking at my life in the right perspective makes me realize how loved and blessed I am.

My big man and my little man....my favorites.