NDNorth: Clara's Adventure

We were worried about Clara. She kept getting sick, and we were concerned that she may need another open-heart operation sooner than we had previously anticipated. (Clara has her first open-heart surgery at the beginning of 2015 for a complex congenital heart defect.)

So we sent Clara to Beijing so that her cardiologist could take a look at her and give his advice.

At New Day in Beijing, everyone was preparing for Christmas, and Clara was swept into the action. Someone dressed her up and put a hat on her head and started taking pictures.

This is what Clara thought about that.

But she came around, eventually. And goodness -- just look at her!

On Christmas Eve, Clara went to the doctor for her check-up, and the news was encouraging! The doctors feel like Clara is currently stable and they don't see the need for open-heart surgery at this point.

Clara was pretty thrilled. Hospitals are no fun, and she had to spend a lot of time in the hospital after her last operation due to complications.

So, Clara, what did you think about the folks in Beijing? What's that face supposed to mean?

 They did your hair funky? Yeah, really? It looks kind of cute, though...

Well, when you make that face, it does look funky. Silly girl!

Aha, but you liked the big bows that they let you wear? That's no surprise, our little princess! You always do like to dress up.

All around, it was a pretty fun trip, wasn't it? You got to make new friends, try on new hair bows, and don't have to have heart surgery for a little while longer. Good news and fun times all around!

Merry Christmas, Clara.