August 6th (Monday) -3:45pm

Hi everyone. We have that rare mid afternoon lull. Mom is snoozing with Joyce quietly reading a book at her side. She is once again breathing without the ventilator today. She did this yesterday for 8 hours which is superlative by ICU standards. Depending on her strength they may try the speech valve this afternoon. Well we know her sense of humor is entirely intact. When I told her yesterday that, as part of my job to take care of their affairs, she is now a Democrat she made a face of horror then laughed until she started coughing. Maybe I should have waited to tell her that "good" news til later.

Rich's body continues to mend. For a guy who loves all food he is a bit of a picky princess about which "nectar" thick foods he wants to eat. I have to use the carrot and stick method to get him to eat his soup. No cranberry (hydraulic oil) until you eat some soup. He had a restless night last night. Still a very disorienting place and position to be in. He did walk some today (50 feet yesterday!) but is otherwise getting the day off for rest. A good night sleep for Rich tonight then he hits it hard tomorrow.

I leave for home tomorrow-Seattle. That is, if I can make myself get on the plane. Maryann and will literally tag-team at the airport. Mary Ann and our wise council will be there daily for their shifts and to continue their amazing support.

Linda W. - I told Mom you threatened to coin check her. Another laughing/coughing fit ensued. Laughter soothes the soul though our wonderful ICU nurses may prefer smaller doses. :)

Thanks again for their support, love and prayers-Sam