Boys, Blankets and Walking Sticks . . .

Blanket #1
When we first got here, I wrote about the beautiful quilt that was waiting for us. I showed it to Seth early on but he didn't remember it, so I showed it to him again. He said, "I can see why it makes you cry. It's beautiful. In fact, I'm not sure why I'm not crying because it really touches me."

I wish you could see the actual quilting, which consists of flags, stars and eagles. 

Thank you to Lesli and Joy of the Tidewater Quilters Guild in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Blanket #2
When we got to Ward 57, we learned that there is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the guys in this ward. Their reps brought us T-shirts and this magnificent blanket.











The Gift of a Walking Stick
Yesterday, two men came by with a hand-carved walking stick. Unfortunately, I have forgotten their names and their organization, but they have 28 carvers around the country who take the information about the soldier and create a personalized walking stick for him. I wish I had thought to get a close-up of the one they brought to show us.

Seth and Chang Lee, July 23, 2011

and Boys Finally, many of you have been wanting to see Seth. Yesterday, another highlight was a visit from Chang Lee, a member of Seth's platoon, who was injured while Seth was on leave. Chang was shot in the arm. It caused considerable damage to his bicep, and there is nerve damage.

Other updates: Seth got a shave today and surgery for tomorrow has been postponed until Wednesday. Even though we know postponement doesn't mean any fewer surgeries, it is still welcome to have more than one day between surgeries.

Random Realization:

•  It occurred to me that for many, hospitals are depressing places, and they may avoid visiting because of this. For us,Walter Reed has become our home. We find comfort here because we're not alone; we find hope in the lives of others around us who have been or are going through what we are going through--or more. We are grateful to all those who put aside their fears and become part of the hope and healing process.