One For The Big Sister

Throughout her journey to hear, Evy has soared above and beyond our expectations in every way possible. She sure is one strong, determined little girl. I'm often amazed at her strength, but I don't ever wonder where she's learned to be this way.
 Evy's older sister, Paityn, is a sassy, strong, talkative, smart, persistent, stubborn, sweet, amazing little girl who loves her little sister unconditionally. With tomorrow being Paityn's 5th birthday, I thought it was the perfect time to recognize her for all that she does and all that she is. Paityn has definitely gone through the normal feelings of confusion and jealousy and she doesn't always understand, but her maturity through all of this has really surprised me.
Paityn pushes Evy around just enough to give her that "thick skin" that I'm sure Evy will someday need, but still shows enough affection for Evy to know that she is loved. Although Evy gets plenty of love from everyone around her, there is something special about the relationship with a sister; it's something only Paityn can give her. Though she doesn't always realize it, Paityn teaches Evy to be fearless, determined, strong, silly and beautiful in every way. Evy just wouldn't be the same without her big sister's influence, so today I want to say I love you, Paityn Taylor!! Happy Birthday and thanks for being YOU!!

My, How Far We've Come In A Year!

Last year, The 4th of July left us with mixed emotions. We had not yet found out that Evy was deaf, but we definitely had our suspicions. She had not passed her newborn hearing test, but did show "signs" of passing at her follow up hearing test.  We were told to wait and follow up if we felt like she was developmentally behind. So the waiting and wondering began and over the next few months there were times that we swore she could hear everything and other times that we just knew something wasn't right.

One of the days that stands out most in my memory is July 4th, 2011. After a day of fun with our family and friends, we were anxiously waiting for the fireworks to start. As soon as they started, Kyle and I were shocked that Evy laid peacefully in our laps through the entire firework display, without startling at all. We were confused and scared, but ready to face the reality of the situation. Although Evy's first 4th of July was very special, I will always remember it as the day I accepted that something might really be wrong with Evy's hearing. This year, I am so proud that we have a daughter who is not only hearing, but also thriving! Here is Evy last year- 7/4/2011, enjoying the festival. Always such a happy girl!

We've come a long way in just a year and we are so glad that this 4th of July was a much different experience for us! Here's some pictures of our day!

Evy absolutely loved the fireworks, and being able to see her face light up meant the world to me. I am so thankful for her implants and for all of the simple things in life that she is now able to enjoy! Here's the video of her hearing fireworks for the first time!