December 20th, 2008

Hello friends and family, hope you are doing well. Ed thought it was time to publish a new picture so Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Today marks the one year anniversary of the accident that took my mother and forever changed my life. You'll note I use the term "change" and not the word "ruin". I'm not sure when I made the distinction between the two but I thank God that I did. It's been difficult trying to figure out how I feel about today. Certainly there is sadness in not being able to say goodbye to my mother and losing her so soon after my dad. On the other hand there is a certain amount of joy and triumph that I feel having beat the odds and made such an incredible recovery. I am blessed.

Today was spent with family, attending a U of O basketball game, and reflecting on this past year and the wonderful relationship I had with Carol, my mother. I am one lucky woman.

Overall, I feel good. Physically, I'm doing very well and able to walk further and further as time goes by. I haven't seen my buddy John (the leg guy) for almost five weeks. I'll go in for a tune up after the first of the year. My left foot and ankle seem to hurt/ache more then anything right now and that could be due to the cold weather we've been having. The right wrist is coming along and I may actually see a bit more rotation then prior to the last surgery. All of this is very good news.

I had contemplated closing out the blog today given the anniversary date but may keep it up for a little bit longer. It has proven to be a good communication tool for out of town friends and family. It's been good for me as well in allowing me to express myself and share feelings and experiences.

However, sooner or later all good things must come to an end. I appreciate so much the emails, phone calls, and comments I've received over these past few months. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the love, support, and encouragement I've received.

Peace to you and your families this holiday season.

Marta Yorganson Barclay