Walkin' the dog

We had a couple of conversations with Tim today and a voice mail from Uncle John, and there's a bunch o' stuff going on. First of all, the big news is that Tim's room mate Brendan went home today. It's about a week earlier than we expected and we're happy for him and his family. But, it's kind of wierd. It's a fairly intense relationship when two people with spinal cord injuries share a room - family and friends come and go, you get to know folks and share concerns and achievements, and then boom! - one room mate is gone. We'll miss him and his parents, whom we had a very nice relationship with. Now, I guess we'll wait and see who's next.

Friday's are generally visitor-free until John gets home for work and comes down with Noir. This evening, they went for a walk down along the river into the Nashua Street Park, with Tim holding the leash, and being in control, according to John. Earlier in the day, Tim had told me that he was feeling more and more control in the fingers of his left hand, specifically the pointer and little fingers. He is actively online now, but mostly reading only until Thursday when the ATEC folks come by to train him on the voice recognition. He is typing occassionally with one finger on the left hand and experimenting with the back of his right thumb. He welcomes emails and messages, but says "don't expect a reply right away!"

On the home front, Amy met with the rep from Patriot Elevator to discuss where one our our home's new features will best fit. For Tim, it will be just like a luxury penthouse apartment - the elevator will open right into his bedroom. Aunt Katie brought by a poster sized card from the folks at Berkshire West, along with some goodies for the road. Amy and I enjoyed a nice meal of Chicken Stew with wild rice from friends Andy and Jeff. Thank you! I must say that we are eating well!

When we spoke with Tim to say good night, he sounded tired. I think he's looking forward to the lighter weekend schedule. On Sunday, we'll welcome back a sunburned Jancy after a week or so at Hermit Island. We are looking forward to being together again.