We survived the Christmas/New Year’s break without going bezerk. We were in Vermont for a couple of days in the beginning of the week, then 2 days home and then were in NYC for New Years. Ella got sick in between the two trips. She had a stomach flu and spent Wednesday night vomiting. She had diarrehia on Thurs. which made our departure for NYC somewhat ‘iffy’ until the last moment. Since her attack the illness has moved on to Etan, and now Gaul. Netta and I are still holding out. Ella’s orthopedics appointment was somewhat uneventful. Dr. Kasser, at Children’s pointed out that Dr. Zimbler if on the far of end of being a believer in braces. The advantage to them, based on data, is not so clear. Dr. Kasser suggested using the brace for her hip condition as long as it is not too much of a burden. He thought her situation wasn’t bad and doesn’t warrant surgery at this point. It should be followed. So we’ll continue with the current brace at night as long as it doesn’t become too much of a hassle. Problem is, Ella does Houdini acts at night and is usually out of the brace by morning. She’s making good progress on walking and continues to walk some steps holding on to my one hand. She’s becoming more verbal too and is trying to say some words. This is BIG progress, unbelievable progress. It is cute and funny too. Usually the word is barely discernable but it is clear she is trying. Ella is more aware and alert. What a pleasure! She just started enjoying chasing Netta around. She “runs” after her (I hold her hands for support) with a little smile on her face. It is wonderful to see her being motivated to walk/run.