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Posted 2016-07-24T06:17:32Z

At home, resting comfortably

Big step today. We came home. To overstate how amazing it is to be home would be impossible. As I lay here in bed, Eden is asleep by my side, as comfortable as could be at this point. We are surrounded by family - Eden's sisters, Hillary and Libby; Eden's mom, Marilyn and my mom, Judy.

Right now it's about healing. Brain surgery is incredible and amazing, but it is really hard for patients. There is swelling, a large wound that needs healing, and it knocks you out. The things we all take for granted like popping out of a chair to run to the fridge and grab a drink, is something that must be done slowly, deliberately, and carefully after surgery. To say nothing of those of us  helping who are tap dancing on pins and needles, wanting to bubble wrap walls and afraid of everything and anything that might endanger the patient.

21 years ago today, Eden and I had our first date. We went to the Snoqualmie ski resort in the heat of summer and took the lift up to then mountain bike down. Oddly I brought yogurt for lunch (Eden never lets me live that one down - not sure why I brought yogurt. That's weird; kind of a red flag). Anyhow, it was a magical day, and we celebrate it every year because of the significance to both of us of how we came together that day.  And now, as July 23 comes to a close, I get to snuggle up to Eden, close my eyes, and feel such love and tenderness. Tomorrow will bring more healing and the first day of our 22nd year together.

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Comments (15)

  • Jason Unger
    Jason Unger

    Yogurt...I could see that. Glad to hear continued good progress. Happy date anniversary.

    9 years ago · Reply
  • Michelle Rappaport
    Michelle Rappaport

    You are lucky she is so smart and looked beyond your food choice (and wasn't yogurt kinda...bad 21years ago?). Hoping for slightly less need for bubble wrap each day!

    9 years ago · Reply
  • Kathryn Courtney
    Kathryn Courtney

    Happy date-aversary!! Many more years of love and teamwork ahead. <3

    9 years ago · Reply
  • Laurie Comeau
    Laurie Comeau

    So wonderful to hear that Eden made it home and you and your family are caring for her. Still sending hugs Eden's way for an awesome recovery. Tell her it's ok to slow down, even just for a bit. 😉 And Dan, very funny story too... Lucky for 2nd dates & a lifetime..... Do you still bring yogurt on your excursions? 😜

    9 years ago · Reply
  • Jodi Sorensen
    Jodi Sorensen

    Sweet story, sweet couple! We're rooting for Eden to kick your ass next year as you ride down the ski hill. ;-)

    9 years ago · Reply
  • Aaron Goldfeder
    Aaron Goldfeder

    Beautiful thoughts and memories and so glad y'all are home and that she's healing. You guys are amazing!

    9 years ago · Reply
  • catherine coulter
    catherine coulter

    Glad to hear Eden is home and surrounded by her family. Hope the recovery continues well. You probably only had yoghurt in the fridge and had other more important things on your mind that day. Happy 1st date-anniversary.

    9 years ago · Reply
  • David Marcus
    David Marcus

    Great story. Happy you are able to celebrate at home.

    9 years ago · Reply
  • Brandan Wilburn-Herbert
    Brandan Wilburn-Herbert

    I'm so happy to hear that she's home, your family is whole and Eden can now recuperate at home. Still praying!

    9 years ago · Reply
  • Vickie Payne
    Vickie Payne

    Thank you so much for the updates. Isn't it amazing how many lives Eden has touched? :-)

    9 years ago · Reply
  • Dorothy Donovan
    Dorothy Donovan

    Dan thank you so much for keeping us updated, it means so much. Eden, we love you and so many thoughts and prayers are being sent from all over the world!!! You have really impacted so many lives, we love you!!! Dan, sounds like you and the family have her well protected! Love to you all!

    9 years ago · Reply
  • Amy Henne
    Amy Henne

    So happy to hear Eden is home and surrounded by loved ones! Such amazing progress!

    9 years ago · Reply
  • Jennifer Burgey
    Jennifer Burgey

    Wonderful news and take each day one at a time. Thrilled to hear you are all home and able to enjoy the comforts of home begin celebrating 22 years together!!

    9 years ago · Reply
  • Patty Pedersen
    Patty Pedersen

    Dear Eden and Dan, So happy to hear you are home! Sending big hugs and positive thoughts that each and everyday gets better and better! I hope you are able to get outside to enjoy a little bit of sunshine too! You are very much an inspiration for all! Patty Pedersen

    9 years ago · Reply
  • Amy donaldson
    Amy donaldson

    . I'm just seeing this and having strong feelings of sadness, but hope, despair but ultimately faith and courage. Dan- give my love to Eden and your beautiful girls, I'm available most Mondays if you ever need anything - could hang with the girls for a day, maybe? I'm touched by your entries- and will be thinking about you all. All my love

    9 years ago · Reply