Day 190 - Dec 7, 2008

We had a really great day today! We have known that this group of guys was going to come for a week or so now and every day we would tell Kevin and he would shake his head 'no'. I was so worried because I didn't want to offend them thinking that Kevin didn't want to meet them. But, it turns out that Kevin just didn't believe us all this time. This is the first look on Kevin's face when they walked in the door. I think he was just figuring out what was going on:



This one is where Kevin really understood that the band was truly here to see him:



And here is kevin just grinning from ear to ear:



And here is a pic of us and the band:



And the bands name? Atreyu!! This is the band whose name Kevin first read on my iPod! When we realized he could read! They are a heavy metal band and one of or possibly Kev's favorite band!!!

I must say that this group of guys was wonderful! We had a very enjoyable visit. They actually stayed for over an hour in Kev's room and then they walked around the ward and met some of the other patients. Then they came back to say 'goodbye' to Kev and invited him to see them in concert next year when they come back to Tampa.

And to Sharrin at Hollywood Records - thanks so much for talking to the guys about coming to see Kev! You made his day - his month - probably his year! Tell them all 'thanks' again!

Now I'm going to answer a few of the questions. I am way behind.

Jessica, we received the shirt and button - very nice! I hope they work!

Kim - we did get the pics of the kids from the preschool. Kevin even pointed to his name that was on a piece of paper in one of the pics. I just love it when I can see him reading. Tell the kids 'thanks'!

Albie - we got the picture you drew of Kevin - wow! Beautiful!

Also, a few of you suggested Kev wearing a hoodie. That is a great idea. We even have a Zoo York one (skateboard company) so we will try that.

Some of you have asked when Breezy will be coming back to PA to live - we are figuring March. Her boyfriend will be home from Iraq in April and she wants to be set up before then. This is going to be very hard for all of us. The three of us are very close and I just can't imagine not seeing her all the time.

Bea (Holee) - hurry up and send those quilts, lol! It has been unseasonably cold here lately. I would've loved to have one last night (and tonight) as it's only 50 degrees here. I am told this is not the norm and I sure hope not...

Anonymous asked why we shouldn't take Kevin out in Tampa - I am thinking it's because he still doesn't have the plate in his head. Normally he would wear a helmet and be able to go out, but they can't get one to fit as his head size fluctuates daily. It is also very painful to have it rub on that sac above his ear.

Denver - the realtor will be dealing with the bank and our bid. I am leaving this aspect in their capable hands so I probably won't know who it is - at least until the end.

Barbara - I don't think Kevin even knew who Charlie Daniels was. It didn't matter to him in the least that he met him, but he was wiped out as we just came back from PT and OT. When he is tired, he retreats into himself and we all just back off and let him rest.

Well, that's enough for tonight. Breezy and I are actually going to Disney World tomorrow for the day/night. My niece Chrissy is coming to stay with Kevin. The reason we are going is because there are some classes I need to take. One is on retiring vs active duty. So we are going to leave tomorrow afternoon after seeing Kevin in the morning and then come back the next afternoon/evening. I still won't leave him for a full day as I just can't do it. I will also be skyping with him. I am really scared to leave him, but I really need to meet some of the contacts at this conference and I also need to learn from the classes. And most importantly - Breeze and I need some time together.

So wish us luck. I hope it all goes well...