Additionally, we had another great outing today to the National Aquarium in DC, as both a birthday present to Forrest and a test of his stamina. It was the first time out of the hospital since his last trip to theNational Aquarium in October, and they graciously opened their doors to us again and made us feel welcome. He did great and seemed to enjoy getting out of the hospital, if only briefly. Forrest also had a visit from the Selfe's today, who've visited him many many times over the last year. Forrest even smiled for the camera today when taking a picture with the Selfe's (that hasn't happened in months!) We're looking forward to being home for the holidays and being amongst friends in Middleburg. We also can't wait to have Forrest's friends over to the farm. Thanks for the blog posts and facebook comments and videos, you all help us keep up the charge.
Best wishes from DC,
Austin
Headed off to the National Aquarium in DC!
In front of the albino alligator exhibit
Forrest smiling seeing the Selfe's
Hurrah for you guys! I would love to come on an outing like that someday. I'm so glad it was a fun day with a chance to get out. I thought of you ALL day today Forrest so happy 19th. I hope things fall in place smoothly for the move. How exciting. Lots of love across the miles.
ReplyDeleteGreat news all around. So very happy for you all!
ReplyDeleteHAPPY BIRTHDAY MY GRANDS0N FORREST!! HOW I DO LOVE YOU! WHAT A WONDERFUL BIRTHDAY PRESENT!! GOING TO THE NATIONAL AQUARIUM! YOU LOOKED SO HANDSOME SITTING THERE IN THE CAR WITH YOUR PRETTY MOM. WHAT AN OUTING. KEEP THOSE SMILES COMING. I'M PROUD TO HEAR YOU ARE JUST MOVING THOSE ARMS ALL AROUND. YOU WILL BE ABLE TO PLAY SOME GAMES SOON, I'LL BET. GLAD YOU GOT OUT. LOVE, GRANDMA NORMA
ReplyDeleteForrest- It was so good to see you and Mom at NRH on Wednesday. I was thinking of you today on your birthday and hoping that you got to go to the aquarium. And after reading your blog you made it! And the van transfers must have worked out too. Very excited for you and you family that you are getting to go home next week for the holidays. My thoughts are with you all and I will make sure to keep updated via your blog. Also I will do what I can to make sure I have a part in your care when you return to WHC for your final surgery. Happy Birthday and happy holidays to your whole family! You guys are amazing!
ReplyDeleteKelly (PT from WHC)
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ReplyDeleteI stayed a little bit late to finish up some things at the house tonight, and as I got in my car to leave, I happened to look in the rear view mirror; as I did, I was struck by the reflections of the candles in each of the windows at BrightWood. Historically, a lit candle in the window has symbolized many things, but the one that came to mind tonight was the candle left lit to guide the weary traveler home. You have traveled many, many miles this year, Forrest, both physically and emotionally... and on this night, your 19th birthday, we are all working so hard to bring OUR weary travelers home. To be in familiar spaces, with the smell of the woods from the back porch and the fire in the great room; to be restored by the love of friends and family, and the community that has been so behind you all.... by the comfort that only home can bring.
ReplyDeleteThe candles are lit, bud, come on home.
Love you much and can't wait 'till you're here. xx
Looking great Forrest!!
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday. You're always in our thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Troy, Jessica and Camden
Hi Forrest, and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! I'm so glad you were able to go out for your birthday, and what a wonderful place to visit! I sure pray that you will be able to go home next week and just get a new start. Keep up the good work!
ReplyDeleteLove and Prayers to you all,
Joyce and Wilbur
Happy Birthday Forrest! Today marks the beginning of a year of hope and happiness for you and your family. We are praying for you to keep up your strength and continue your road to recovery. Keep smiling - your beautiful smile lights up the room and brightens everyone's day!
ReplyDeleteLove and hugs from the Rafferty Family
Bro!
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday my man! Looks like you had a good time. I hope you got to see the video message Nikki, Johnboy and I sent you. All of your Mercersburg friends here at the Naval Academy are thinking about you!
Love,
Danny
It is so great you are coming home, Forrest; we're sure your progress will flourish enormously, just being at at Brightwood.
ReplyDeleteMuch love,
Jim and Gail (Wofford)
So great to see Forrest"out and about". An enthusiastic (belated) Happy Birthday! and lets pray that this is Forrest's leap year and you have great strides of progress in 2012!
ReplyDeleteCan't wait for your arrival home Forrest. Brightwood looks sparkly and welcoming this holiday season. I can only imagine what this trip will mean to you. Much love, Barbara and the gang from Rabbit Hill XXOO
ReplyDeleteForrest and Team 44,
ReplyDeleteWe are thinking good thoughts for you as make your way home to Brightwood this week.
Love,
The Selfes