Mocha Shakes

Les' swallow test last week went as we figured.  Deanna, the speech therapist, told Les that he was swallowing (no leaking!!), but with difficulty.  His tongue doesn't work AT ALL anymore.  He can't keep his lips pressed together.  The swallowing muscles in his throat are slowing up.  BUT he was swallowing.  Deanna suggested thin liquids only.  She explained it would be easier for Les if his head was tilted back a bit when swallowing.  This has been easiest for Les when reclining in his chair, since he can't really keep his head tilted back on his own.

SO, Les is trying different things and figuring out what works and what doesn't.  One thing that Les has missed eating/drinking is a mocha shake.  He LOVES them.  Teacher niece Emily texted one afternoon and asked if he needed anything.  Yes, he did - a mocha shake.  The next day, pastor friend Ben asked if Les needed anything.  Yes, he did - a mocha shake.  These shakes were from two different coffee stands in town.  As most of you know, there is not a shortage of coffee stands in our town!  Our friend Tana found out about these mocha shakes and insisted that were she works had the best mocha shakes.  Okay, Les said, prove it.  Sunday after church Tana brought one of those over.  (This was 3 mocha shakes in 4 days!!).  Les decided that Tana was right - that mocha shake was the best.  He has also tried eating soup, which works pretty well.  Neighbor Grace once again showed up at our door step - this time with several almond sticks and homemade pea soup.  I have been enjoying the almond sticks and Les also enjoyed the pea soup.  So yummy!!!

Seriously - who does this??? 

Back to the Seattle trip last week.  Les knew I needed a break from Seattle, so he asked his friend Rolf to take him.  Rolf is a farmer; he made the time to take Les.  This was the first appointment I have not been to in a year and a half of appointments.  It was a weird feeling when Les left - guilt mixed with relief.  I have seen a swallow test before so we both felt it was an appointment I could miss.  Thank you very much Rolf - I very much enjoyed the day off.