Erkel Family: October 2010

Saturday, October 9, 2010

Jessie: Having a Good Day!

We got permission to host Jessie's roommate from rehab for an overnight pass at our house. We rented movies and made popcorn, but not before enjoying some beautiful Autumn weather in Iowa City!

Window shopping as only teenage girls can do...

Enjoying time on the Ped Mall

Watching Jessie walk down the street with a friend, laughing, made the last months all worth it...

Of course, Aissa heard the word "sleepover" and had to jump in with Kayla!

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Jessie's Graduation!

Jessie on her 108th Day: Graduation!

Her "home away from home" for the past four months

When a client graduates, they decorate one of the bricks on the wall in the rec roon. Jessie's included Mt. Emily

Amy, her counselor, Jessie, and Cheri, the Director who answered our call that day in June and made a spot for Jessie. These women are amazing!

Phil, a staff counselor, who was one of Jessie's favorites. He said she was like a granddaughter to him.

Amy with Jessie "on the outside"

Kayla, Jessie's roommate and "sister." She is an amazing 16-year old who graduated with Jessie.

Jessie and Kayla didn't want to say goodbye...so Aunt Sherri got permission from ASAC to bring Kayla home tomorrow night for a sleepover!

After the graduation, teary-eyed and proud!

Kenny came running outside when we were ready to go for one last hug. We love Kenny!

Granny and Grandpa Visit Iowa

Granny and Aissa played, and played...

And Grandpa read books over and over...

and again, some more!

Aissa was treated like a princess for two weeks!

It didn't take long to warm up to Grandpa...

...and Granny too! We miss you already, Granny and Grandpa!

Sunday, October 3, 2010

I have taken photographs of my niece Jessie over the past four months as she completes a 106-day drug and alcohol rehabilitation program. I am struck by the change she has undergone! She graduates from rehab on Thursday and then I will pass the baton back to the family in Oregon.