Hi Anti's!
Update: Haley's tendon transfer surgery on August 19th was successful. (so far as we can tell) Her arm is casted in a supinated position
(palm up). At 12 years old, this is the first time her arm has ever been in that position. She thinks that's really cool. They had to cut a muscle and transfer a tendon to do it, but that's ok. She's able to separate her fingers too. I'm amazed what's important to someone who doesn't have functional usage of their limbs... We spent a couple of long nights trying to outrun the pain without narcotics. Poor kid pukes up her toe nails on any opiate. She and I will drive to Denver in two weeks to have her cast changed and to see her surgeon. 4 weeks later, she'll be put into a splint. Somewhere between now and then, we'll start physical therapy again on both her foot and her hand. She's starting 7th grade on Monday, and feeling very teenage-ish.
Reggae on the Rocks in Denver was wonderful. Israel Vibration and Yellowman not only were wonderful to listen to, but also very inspirational. The two lead singers of Israel Vibration met as boys in a home for polio stricken children. Even though both men depend upon crutches that attach to their forearms, they never let it slow them down. You should see those bwais skank! Yellowman is a Jamaican man born with albinism. He's survived both throat cancer and skin cancer...and as a result of multiple surgeries has significant facial disfigurement. His music format has changed to a more "conscious" tone as a result of his illnesses. He still sounds great. It was a beautiful thing for a mother of a special needs child to see. It was all for Jah that day!
During the concert, (which was the day after Haley's surgery) my friend Loie took care of the little patient. There are few I would trust my baby to, and she was a God send. Love you Lo....and thanks. RobertE was our designated Y- chromosome. He packed up food and beverage for the long day at Red Rocks. Love you guys.
This week in the San Pedro Sun, there is an article about a summer art program for kids. My friend Curvin Mitchell taught art to a group of children from San Pedro. If you haven't already, please read the article. You'll see a photo of him with his kids and their art. Curvin is a true Rasta man....very honest and kind. Many people in Belize wear dreadlocks. Not all of them are Rasta however. I've heard many negative remarks about "dreads" on the island, and I know some are not good people. The true Rasta friends I have are honest, family oriented people who have morals and values. Sorry to preach....just making a point of clarification. Curvin is an amazing artist and I would highly recommend him for either landscape or portait painting. He makes beautiful jewelry and I've had him do some wood burning for me too. I'll be glad to pass on his
phone number for anyone interested in looking at his stuff. He does have work at Belizean Arts located at Fidos....
Been thinking about you all and dreaming about the next time I can make it to San Pedro. I'm
presently paying for the past two surgeries and will have to wait until I've taken care of those bills before I get to think about paradise again...hopefully it won't be too long.
Just wanted to check in and let you all know what's up.
XXOO
Teenah
AmbergrisCaye.com 
