All is well...

Garret's procedure was successful yesterday. It was a long day for those waiting it out - Erin, Jim, G.G., G-pops, and Mursaus were keeping each other company. The rest of us were waiting by our phones to hear the news.

What we know is that Garret's fistula was larger than expected - they had to stretch the esophagus quite a bit to close it. That said, there is a 50/50 chance there might be leak, if so doctors will carefully monitor it and look for it to close on its own. Because the gap was a bit larger, lil' G might have to have his g-tube for a couple of years to supplement his caloric intake. In the meantime, he has to stay very still for the next 5 days to help it heal. Once that's over he'll get to experience all the fun of Christmas in the NICU!

Eventful Day!

Garret has been cleared to have his surgical procedure to correct his fistula today. The surgery team came by this morning to confirm that the procedure is a go. He will likely be in surgery starting around 10:00 AM and it is unclear how long things will take. The length of the surgery depends on the gap in the fistula.

Originally the procedure was scheduled for the 24th, but Garret's was having increased apneas and bradies and was intubated earlier this week as a result. The intubation was causing some issues with his g-tube and the surgeons decided as long as his health was good they would move the procedure up.

Erin and Jim are down in the NICU today. G.G. and G-pops are heading down to wait with them, along with Rich and Jenny Mursau. The Mursaus have been a great support system for Erin and Jim reassuring them throughout this journey. Their son Ty had similar conditions to Garret about 3 years ago and they were spending quite a bit of time down at Children's then. Needless to say, Garret and the Darlings will be in the thoughts and hearts of many today as he has the procedure done.

Auntie Missy graduates!

Auntie Missy is graduating today from the University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh! She has earned her bacelor's in Marketing, Supply and Operations Management. The Dallman's couldn't be more proud of her accomplishment. We all wish her the best in her upcoming job search.

Most everyone is making their way over to Oshkosh to support and celebrate Missy's accomplishment. Amber, regretfully, is hanging back in Saint Paul because of the dismal weather forecast - she certainly wishes she could be there. Erin is looking to take a break from the NICU and cheer Missy on in the next chapter in her life.

In general reflection, this shows how far the Dallman girls have come in 2008. Missy moves into the next chapter of being a professional. Erin's next chapter is becoming a new, loving mom. Amanda and Amber are working on rearing their delightful dogs (Sherpa and Sparky) because they're not sure they are ready for anything much bigger than that at this point. Whatever the next chapter is, our family has been there to support everyone through it all.

Can you believe it?

The little G hit the big 4 pound mark! Who ever thought doubling your body weight in just over one month would be such a HEAVY deal? With the weight gain and a couple of other positives, Garret is now down to 3 liters on flow and no more caffeine.

Being 4 pounds means it is also time to talk surgery! They have scheduled Garret's esophageal procedure for Christmas Eve at 7.30 AM. Some you may say, "Christmas Eve? What?" To that, I think Christmas Eve is a great metaphor for a time of hopefulness, light in a time of darkness, and peace in a time of chaotic consumerism. It will be a time to reflect on how much Garret has brought to our family and how hopeful we are for the future. Please keep the Darlings in your thoughts, reflections, and prayers while you reflect upon the holiday season.

One Month Today!

Garret turns one month today! And, in one month's time he has come a long way. He is currently weighing in at 3 pounds, 9 ounces - gaining over 1.5 pounds in the last month! While he keeps packing on the holiday pounds Erin and Jim should be meeting with surgery some time this week to discuss his upcoming procedure in more detail.

This past weekend Garret also had a room full of loving family for his baptism. All grandparents were there as well as new aunts and uncles. Pastor Nate from Trinity in Waupaca came down to conduct the nice little ceremony. And, G.G. brought guardian angels for everyone who was present to hang on a small Christmas tree. The angels all had names on them and will overlook Garret and Erin while they stay down there over the holidays. After the baptism we all enjoyed lunch and conversation together.

With everyone away from home the dog cousins are spending some time alone. Auntie Missy and Uncle Paul have taken in Gunner the past month. And, it appears that Gunner and Chug are now the thickest of thieves. One thing is for sure, Gunner better start taking better notes from Chug on how to remove the holiday headpieces Auntie Missy insists on putting one for pictures. On the other hand, Garret is finally starting to fit into some of the adorable clothes he has been given, which is certainly one of many blessings to be counted!