one tough cookie

I am so happy to report that Ella's surgery went very well. I was nervous about so many different aspects of today, but so far, every fear has been put to rest.

We arrived at the hospital at 10:45am. Ella was in good spirits all morning and didn't even notice that she hadn't eaten anything since dinner the night before until we were about 10 minutes away from the hospital! Even when I told her she couldn't eat until after the surgery, she seemed pretty okay with it.

Once we got to the hospital, she hopped out of the van, and marched her cute little self through the door carrying a little bag and pulling her Dora suitcase. Her long blond hair was swinging from side to side with every step, and her smile was radiating as she greeted everyone who was watching her (it was hard not to watch her, she really was quite darling).

The nurse showed us into her pre-op room where she changed into her gown and slippers and answered a ton of questions asked by various doctors and nurses. Unfortunately the surgeon was over an hour late. It could have been a very uncomfortable wait if it wasn't for Ella's great attitude. We passed the time by playing "I spy", having a few Thumb Wars and watching some cartoons. When it was time to head back to the operating room, she hopped off the chair, gave me a quick hug and kiss and off she went with Carl and a team of nurses. Carl told me that once she was in the O.R., she took a few deep breaths into the mask, and fell fast asleep. Once asleep, one of the nurses looked at Carl and said, "You've got one special little girl here" . . . don't we know it!!

About 2 1/2 hours later, we were able to talk with the doctor. He said that the surgery went very smoothly. He even showed us a picture of the cyst, the duct and the piece of the hyiod bone he had taken out. It was actually pretty big! Carl has been showing the picture off to all the nurses, who have all been equally as impressed.

After meeting with the doctor, we headed back to recovery to see Ella. She wasn't quite awake, but the nurse said she was doing perfectly. She had quite a large dressing on her neck and an IV in her hand, but other than that, she looked like she was resting nicely. It wasn't long before we were wheeling her up to her cabin-themed room up on the pediatric floor. She wasn't talking much, but she said she wasn't feeling much pain. It wasn't long before the nurse came in with a movie and a grape Popsicle. After taking her first lick of the Popsicle she said, "this tastes awesome" . . . that is the most she has said all night.

Boppa, Grandma Barb, Grandma Judy, Jocie and Claire have all been up to visit, and with them has come a influx of gifts. Together with the gifts she has received from other family, friends and teachers, it seems as though Christmas has come early!

As I write, Ella is cuddled up with her beloved blankie and sleeping peacefully. Thanks to all of you who have sent prayers our way. It is appreciated more than you know. We are so thankful :)