December 30

We went to Arroyo Grande to visit our family - Ron, Jane, Stac, and Emily.  We had a great, relaxing, and yummy trip.  It was beautiful - we love Hotel Schram.  The girls love spending time with Emily, and it was nice to get away for a few days.  Chloe has a doctor's appointment a week from tomorrow.  Today marks her half way point, so we have 6 more weeks to go until the plates are removed.  I am obviously posting less because Chloe is feeling well, and we are in steady wait mode for another 6 weeks.  I will definitely let you know how her doctor's appointment goes next week. 

Thank you Bryan, Carol, and The Olivet Presbyterian Church for your prayers, Jesus charm, and cute lamb!  Chloe loves it, and we appreciate all of your support.

We will be spending New Years with our neighbor,s and Chloe's having her friend Bre come hang out.  We wish you all a happy and healthy 2011.  Love you!

December 24 Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas!  We feel so blessed this year to have all of you in our lives.  These last five weeks have been the worse and best time for our family.  We want to thank all of you for all of your support, love, and prayers.  We never could have made it through this time without each and every one of you.   It's amazing how life feels so precious when you or your family's health isn't great.  Chloe feels good and our family is having a wonderful holiday together.  We hope that all of you have a safe, healthy, and fun Christmas.

XOXO  To all of our family and friends near and far - thank you for surrounding our family with your love!

December 22

Tessa had her slumber party last night.  She had 7 sweet girls over.  They had such a great time.

Chloe went to see Dr. Sherwood our dermatologist on Monday.  I noticed last Thursday right before her last surgery a bald spot.  The doctor thinks she has alopecia areata which was brought on by stress.  She says it is rare for people to lose all their hair.  She might lose more hair because of the next surgery.  I am rubbing a steroid into the 2 areas twice a day.   She's being pretty brave about it.  She's feeling good right now and smiles a lot. 

December 20

Chloe has been out and about this weekend.  She went to the nutcracker to watch her friend Bre dance.  She went to church.  She went to see Christmas lights with her good friends Cameron, Makenzie, and Allie, and then out to dinner afterward.  But still she complained about being bored.  I think we're all feeling stir crazy from staying inside with all of the rain.  She is also missing her good friend Emma, who went to her condo in Colorado for two weeks.  We are going to visit my aunt, uncle, and cousins next Tuesday through Thursday in Arroyo Grande for a change of scenery.

The girls love all of the great games DeCastro Family.  Thank you.

December 17

Chloe is feeling much better.  The screws are out of her gums.  She can smile without the screws poking into her lips.  The long movable screws were taken off behind her ears.  She still has the knobs back there.  They just don't poke out into her hair.  Chloe told me she isn't in a lot of pain.  She just can't get comfortable because the knobs hurt her ears if she lies on her side.  She also feels like she's wearing a helmet.  There is a lot of pressure on her head.  It feels like someone is squeezing her head all the time.  I can tell everyday she is feeling better.  She also looks better as well, which is exciting.

I'm so thrilled that we have this holiday break, so I can focus more on her without work, homework, lunches, etc.  We will be spending most of the holiday at home.  She loves visitors, so give us a call if anyone would like to come by.  She is very excited to see my brother Kurt, Amanda, Scott, and Peter, who will be here during the Christmas weekend.

My new friend Diane's daughter Madison had her surgery yesterday(which was even longer and tougher than Chloe's).  I spoke to her today.  She is doing as well as can be expected at this point.  She is in ICU for at least 7 days.  We are praying she'll go home Christmas Eve.  We hope you will say a prayer for her as her family struggles through this tough time.  I know she will get better everyday and this surgery will be a huge success for her.

I had such a great couple of days celebrating with my Kindergartners and their families.  I have a super class this year, and their Gingerbread Play was a huge success.  It was also nice helping in Tessa's classroom, too.  I also enjoyed seeing Chloe's teachers.  She has the kindest most amazing teachers this year.  I can see why she misses them so much.  An extra thank you to Mrs. Roselauf's and Mrs. Fritz's classes for the gifts and cards.  Thank you all so much from the bottom of our hearts for making Chloe still feel a part of Goddard!

We are so thankful this holiday season for all of our friends and family.  Celebrate-Schools out!

December 15

Chloe was extemely stressed about surgery today.  On our drive to the hospital she was crying.  Now that she knows what's coming, she is totally freaked out.  We put numbing cream on her hands for the IV (thanks Veronica and Miranda for the great idea).  She still wigged out, and they couldn't get a good vein.  Instead, she went into the operating room awake, and they put a gas mask on to put her out.  When she woke up her throat hurt badly due to the intabation tube and because she threw up.  She was mad and loud in the Recovery Room.  I think she scared the nurse. 

She had a bean cup from Taco Lita on her way home.  She had a bath and took a long nap.  She just woke up and isn't feeling so hot. 

Thank you Mehlovitch Family for the homemade boo boo bag.  You are so kind.  Thank you Uncle Robbie for the Taco Lita gift certificates.  We already used some today.  Chloe could eat it all day every day!

We once again appreciate your thoughts and prayers during todays surgery.  Thank you.

December 14

Chloe went to bed without fretting about tomorrow's surgery, which is fabulous.  She has to be at Children's at 9:30 and her surgery will be at noon.  I'm hoping for an easy before and after.

Thank you Rod and Barbara for spoiling Chloe with the beautiful portable desk.  She went nuts over it.  She had actually asked for it.

Diane, Emily, and Suzanne, thanks for the adorable hat and scarf.  Chloe loves it.  Perfect for the cold weather that's coming.

We appreciate all of your love and support.  Thank you!

December 13

Greep cousins

Greep Family

I spoke to Chloe's doctor about the rash or hives behind her ears.  He's thinking about changing her antibiotic and told me to give her Benadryl if it starts really bothering her.  He told me the metal in her face is the best metal around, and it is more expensive than his car.  He'll take a look at it when he operates on Wednesday.

Thank you Rod and Barbara Marinelli for the adorable Pottery Barn earring holder.  It's perfect!

Adi, Barbara, and Claire, thank you for coming over to visit with Chloe.  It was so much fun.  Chloe loves the cute heart necklace, chocolates, and sweet card.  We can't wait to see you again for Christmas.

Love to you all.

December 12 = Happy Birthday Tessa!

We had a very busy weekend.  Chloe had a great weekend.  She is getting out more.  Today was Tessa's 8th birthday.  We had a great family brunch at Grandma and Grandpa Greep's house.  Chloe loves visiting with her cousins.  We went to dinner at Tessa's favorite - Paco's. 

The Salle girls came over to hang out.  Thank you for the adorable Build A Bear.  Chloe loves it. 

Chloe has a rash behind her ears.  I'm going to call the doctor tomorrow.  I'm worried she might be allergic to the metal sticking out behind her ears.

December 10

Everyday Chloe feels better.  Today we did some Christmas shopping at Nordstrom and had lunch at CPK.  Chloe felt great, and we had a nice time.  Chloe had a lot of friends over today.  A few of her close friends came to hang out - Cameron, Sofia, Mackenzie, and Emma thanks for keeping Chloe busy and happy. 


Thank you Madonna and Tracy for the adorable memory foam pillow.  It's Chloe's cutest and most comfortable in her mountain of pillows.  Thank you for the yummy slurpee, Lori and Mackenzie.  Sofia, Chloe loves the scrapbook kit.  She's so excited to put it together.  Thank you Mrs. Ghibado and home period -  the card was so nice.  Thanks friends and family!

December 10

Chloe's eyes are open - yeah!  She is feeling much better and is back to being our happy Chloe girl.  We had some more good news yesterday.  Chloe will have the remaining 3 screws in her mouth and the 2 dangling rods removed from behind her ears next Wednesday.  She's feeling nervous about another surgery and having an IV again.  I think she'll feel a little bit better without those things, and she'll be able to smile! 

Thank you Homan Family for the sweet card and yummy sandwich.  Chloe loves Luca Bella.  Thank you everyone for all of your heartfelt thoughts and prayers.  Love to you all.

December 8

Chloe's having more happy, everyday moments, rather than painful sad ones.  Today was very busy.  We did homework this morning, and then took off to Children's Hospital.  Then, we went grocery shopping finding things we could mash up for her. 

We also finally got to meet Diane.  Her daughter is having a similar surgery soon.  She was relieved to see how great Chloe looked.  She brought pictures of her 4 beautiful daughters.  It's so strange to meet someone who lives so close, that has lived somewhat of a similar life.  Thank you Carmenate Family for the fun game.  The girls love it.

Chloe and I rushed home to feed her and finish her homework.  Bre and Emma came by to hang out.  Chloe loved it and adores the bracelet and slippers.  Emma, you are the best.  Cath, you are spoiling us.  The whole Greep Family has happy, big bellies.  You are the best cook ever.  The Trader Joe's goodies will come in handy, too. 

Chloe's teacher came over and is wonderful.  She loves the busy work.  She is also opening her eyes more today.  She told me things are not as blurry as they were before.  Yeah - progress.

All of your prayers have really started kicking in.  Chloe is happy.  The doctor has finished moving her bones forward with the tool.  Now, we have to wait for the bones to grow together and solidify.  This will take approximately 2 months.  Hopefully in the meantime, Chloe will have less pain, become more comfortable, less swollen, and less sensitive to touch.

Thank you for your text messages, thoughts, prayers, emails, and phone messages.  We truly feel protected and surrounded by your love.

December 7

Life is even busier now that Chloe has started her school work.  Due to her eyesight still being poor, I have to read and write her answers down.  It's a great distraction for her. 

Chloe was feeling really good this afternoon.  She took her Tylenol with codeine, and had a great schooling session.  She felt great and cracked a few jokes into the evening.  She took another pill before she went to bed.  We see the doctor tomorrow around 10:00.

Thank you Jay and Cheryl for the goodies and crafts.  Thank you Brad and Catrina Campbell for the crafts as well.  Chloe is loving all of her crafts.  Thanks for keeping her busy.

Bill and Karren, the girls love them snowmen musician - thank you!

December 6

Chloe had a much better day today.  She had a super doctor's visit.  She should be done having her screws turned on Wednesday.  We will go to Children's Hospital for the doctor to make sure Wednesday morning.

Chloe's teacher came to our house today.  It went really well.  Tomorrow she'll do some homework.  He is coming everyday from 3:30 to 4:30.  It's a great distraction.

Chloe was so excited to read her dance email.  Her dance recital theme is Alice in Wonderland.  She is determined to dance in the recital and is walking more to get her legs ready for it.  Thanks Bonnie.

Thank you Mrs. Harwick for the purse full of goodies.  You mean a lot to Chloe.  Pulido Family - what a great idea with the gingerbread house.  Chloe loves to cook and decorate.  That will be a lot of fun.

We are praying for all of you, Coz, Colleen, and Family.

December 5

The days are long and monotonous for Chloe.  She is tired of all of this.  She wants to eat and feel better.  Her nose was bleeding today and bothering her.  She still complains of not being able to see clearly.  She's also worried about her appearance.  She feels her mouth looks crooked.  We will ask the doctor about it tomorrow.  I'm hoping it's because of the missing screw. 

Tomorrow I am working a half day, Chloe has a doctor's appointment, and she will start with her home schooling.  I'm hoping this will keep her mind off of things and make her day go by quickly.

Thank you Fox Family for the cute vest, scarf, and hat.  It's adorable and super cozy.  Chloe loves it and was happy to see you.

Thanks again friends and family.

December 4 - Happy Birthday Gary Campbell

#1 Sparrows

#2 Cardinals

It was a long soccer day for the Greep Family.  Tessa scored the winning goal to clinch the cup for the Sparrows.  She was on an amazing undefeated team.  Great coach and girls.  Katie had a hat trick in her first game winning 3-2.   Unfortunately, her team lost the second game and ended up with second place.  We'll take it.  This is the best season our girls have had.  Enough proud mom bragging - I hate that.  They did OK - could have done better - ha ha.

I'm trying to keep Chloe's weight stable.  I'm trying to get her to have some vegetable soup and a fruit smoothie with a little protein and pedia sure added each day.  I had her swallow a vitamin as well.  She's been losing some hair and looks too thin.  If anyone has any tasty suggestions- let me know.  She hates the powdery taste of the protein stuff and never really loved smoothies.  I actually blended a meatball sandwich today from Luca Bella- Chloe said it tasted like heaven.

Chloe actually went to Katie's game to cheer for her.  Sixteen days cooped up at home has been depressing.  It was nice to get her out and about but a little scary.  You don't want a ball to come close to her. 

Thanks Tetone Family for the great desk top.  It's perfect for Chloe starting home school on Monday- Great idea.  Bishop Family, Chloe loves the soft and cozy blanket.  We love you all a ton. 

Sorry we missed Gary's big birthday - we love you and know you're all having a blast!

December 3 continued

Terrific News - the doctor did NOT repair the screw today.  He didn't feel it was necessary to put the screw back in and was pleased with her progress.  He is keeping a close eye on her.  We will be going back to see him on Monday.

Chloe gave me permission to post pictures from right after her surgery.  You can go back to past posts to see how she looked after her surgery.  She swelled up the most around the 21st.  Every day you can see how much she is improving.

Thank you Jeanette for the delicious dinner.  Emma thanks for being such a great friend and visiting Chloe.  You are the highlight of her day.  Anika, thanks for coming out to deliver the beautiful blanket Sarina made, the yummy chocolate caramel graham crackers, and the beautiful figurine.  Thank you my LVH friends - miss you and appreciate everything.

December 3

Chloe had  a great day yesterday visiting with friends.  It's amazing how her personality and attitude changes when her friends come over.  Typical teenager.

Another screw came out last night.  The doctor wasn't too distraught over it.  He said they might be coming out due to her bone density.  I hope he just leaves it out.  She has an appointment today at 2:30.

Katie had a special concert playing her flute.  It was nice to get out.  It'll be great when the whole family can go on an outing together. 



I can't figure out how to flip these pictures.



Thank you Mackenzie and Forrest Family for the root beer floats - yummy.  Chloe had a great time visiting with you.  Thank you Alexia for the bracelet kit.  It will keep Chloe busy. 

Love to you all.

December 2

Chloe's eyes look so much better today.  I think she is feeling better, too.  She had some rest last night, and I think she's getting used to the rubber bands in her mouth.  She's ready for visitors today. 

Chloe has another doctor's appointment tomorrow at 2:30 in Glendale.  He wants to keep a close eye on the moving out of her mid face. 

Thank you Wendy for the amazing dinner - yippee, no cooking!  You are the best.  Emily and Schram Family, thank you for the Jamba Juice gift card.  Chloe will be on soft foods and juice for 2 more months, so that's the perfect gift.

Thank you so much for everything!



Chloe and Tessa



December 1

Chloe had a rough night.  She was in a lot of pain, and took some pain medication.  The medication is to be taken every 5 hours, and she was feeling pain after about 3 1/2 hours.  At 2:00 she came out on the couch to rest.  She went back to bed and didn't want anymore medication.  When she woke up this morning her eyes were very red and goopy.  I took her to her eye doctor.  Dr. Tarczy-Hornoch is amazing - very gentle, kind, smart, and thorough.  There's a brand new Children's Hospital Arcadia office - yeah.  She said Chloe's corneas look healthy.  Chloe is now using eyedrops and erythromyocin ointment.  I think this will help quickly and will help get Chloe's spirits up.  It's hard not to be able to see, while sitting around all day. 

Chloe isn't up for visitors today.  I think tomorrow she will be.  I think her eyes and mouth will feel much better tomorrow. 

Thank you again for all of your thoughts, prayers, and well wishes!  Love you all!!!!