Six Months Ago...

Six months ago today, we appeared in court in Chongqing, China and made Mary Kate an official member of the Sigmon family. I can't believe we have been together only 6 months because in so many ways it seems like much longer. I feel like I have known her longer than 6 months and I think the feeling is mutual. Mary Kate or "Mei Mei" as Jack and LIly refer to her, which means little sister in the Chinese language, has fit into our family beautifully. At 21 pounds and almost 23 months of age, she is bright, determined, sweet and playful!

Happy New Year!

We spent the days after Christmas in Taos, New Mexico with the kids and our new puppy, Bella. The kids had a great time playing in the snow, skiing and drinking hot chocolate. Mary Kate played with her toys and snacked as often as she was able to do so. She still loves her cheerios! We went to the Orthopedist today and he said she is healing well from her hip surgery. We will see him again next month for more x-rays, but as for the next four weeks we are BRACE FREE and thrilled about it! Happy New Year to you!

She is cast-free!

As of today, Mary Kate is free from her cast. She remains in a brace for the next two weeks and then we will see her Orthopedic doctor again and he will hopefully allow her to have a few minutes each day out of the brace. She has been rather stoic today as her little body is very stiff. She did remember how much she likes to be held by mommy and has been in my arms most of the day. We will keep you posted with her progress!

Two Weeks From Today

Two weeks from today, Thursday, November 13th, Mary Kate is scheduled to have her cast taken OFF! We are anxiously awaiting the day. She will be fitted for a brace that will keep her from bearing weight on her hips, but I don't know too many details yet. Her orthopedist said that she will wear it anywhere from six weeks to two years. We will keep you posted. Thanks for your encouragement and prayers.

The Day After Hip Surgery

Mary Kate's hip surgery went very well yesterday. For those of you who are more technical, the surgery included a pelvic osteotomy and reduction of the right femur. She is now stabilized in a hot pink body cast for the next few months. Although she is not crazy about the cast, she is adjusting to this new way of life. The good news is that she can eat as many cheerios as she desires! Mary Kate has been stoic, brave and compliant, we are very proud of her. Thank you so much for your prayers, we have been filled with peace as a result.

The Day Before the Big Day.

Today is Sunday and we enjoyed a fun day that included church, swimming, (laundry for me) and family dinner. Mary Kate loves to jump to her daddy in the swimming pool and Jack and Lily are fish! They have become wonderful swimmers this summer and I am so proud of them.

Tomorrow is Mary Kate's hip surgery. We are anxious, but know that God will take great care of us throughout the process. Thank you in advance for your prayers.

One Down, One to Go!

One week ago, Mary Kate had palate closure surgery and received her first set of ear tubes. She is doing great! She has been such a trooper, but I think she really misses her beloved cheerios. She has been on a liquid/soft diet for the past week. We have a follow-up appointment tomorrow with the oral surgeon and I am hopeful he will add a few additions to her diet as she is growing tired of oatmeal, applesauce and yogurt! She also misses her sippy cup and bottle!

On Monday 9/22, Mary Kate will undergo hip surgery to correct the right hip dysplasia and will be in body cast for THREE months. As you can imagine, we would appreciate your prayers during this difficult time. Thank you so much!