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Do-overs

Those of us who were here over Thanksgiving are planning on having a Thanksgiving meal sometime later this year.  It was our Thanksgiving that never was.  We joke about it occasionally.  We picture Anissa sneaking things off the snack trays, and giving directions, orchestrating if you will, the perfect Thanksgiving.

That was actually one of the reasons we bought this house.

It wasn’t our first choice.  It wasn’t our second choice.  I think it was actually house #234049 that we looked at and decided to make our third and final choice.

We fell in love with it when we drove up.  The lot is deep and nicely landscaped, maybe a bit aged, and overgrown…but I’ve been busy people!  Actually I think some magic elves came and took down the Christmas lights last week, because I can’t find them and they’re not up.  The yard explodes with color at various times of the year.  The house is pretty too.  We did need to have it modified slightly due to a broken butt incident.  It’s the house we saw hosting many holiday dinners in.  We pictured friends and family coming from near and far to spend some time together politely arguing over how many games the Lions would win this year, 1 or 2.

I even went so far as to request the nameplate from my grandparents’ house.  The one our family sadly had to sell this past year after my grandfather built it himself 50 some odd years ago.

This was our version of a “perfect for us” home, and we could so see each other growing old in it.

Unfortunately though, we had to miss our first Thanksgiving here.  We had a packed house, but it wasn’t for the right reasons.  We’ll have our do-over sometime this year, and it will be awesome.

I’m wondering if we could do a do-over for the Super Bowl as well.

Why?

Because my brand new, bought this summer, HD TV broke this weekend.  I called for the warranty.  They sent me to the manufacturer.  The manufacturer told me it would take them a couple of weeks to come out and address.

I thought about that for .2 seconds and called the Geek Squad back.  The poor woman who took the call received the brunt of 70+ days of frustration.  I’d like to apologize now, publicly.  I get on my kids when they throw temper tantrums, and luckily it was late enough in the night that they didn’t see dad pop.  I always tell my kids that nothing good ever comes from a temper tantrum, and that they need to figure out more constructive ways to get what they want.

I guess technically speaking, I did follow my own advice.  I just threw a bit of anger behind it.

Because.  Um.  Ahem.

The Geek Squad will be out on Thursday.  Of course they’ll probably need to order a part or 3, causing me to miss the big game on the big tv.

I told Anissa about it.  She laughed because I’m going to miss the new Lost.  “Welcome to my world” she said sarcastically.  Followed with a “Oh no, actually I have a TV.”  Evil thy name is Anissa!

So this past week has been filled with some pretty awesome news.  I forgot to mention it last week, but Peyton’s last check up came back fine.  So fine, in fact, that we snuck into the rehab center to tell mom all about it.  Peyton was pretty excited that she got to see mom on her own, even if it was a brief visit.  The security guard asked if she was sick in any way, and I offered him her CBC paper.  I guess not many visitors can be that certain.  Also, a dear sweet friend, Heather Spohr, had their baby.  Anissa was pretty psyched about both.

This past weekend, we had several special friends come up and pop in on us.  Monday was Anissa’s birthday, but we celebrated it on Sunday to let the kids be there with her.  There were friends, some old, some new, and family around her, and we all got to just be a family for a little while.  Anissa did not miss a beat.  She was engaged in conversation, and quickly switched to disciplining the kids appropriately at one point.  At the end of the weekend, I sat down and thought about it.  It felt like I’ve almost got enough to buy that family in the Macy’s window…the one with that huge price tag.  We’re almost there.

On Monday, her birthday, I finally got to give her the perfect gift.  First off, I talked her therapy angels into wearing Team Anissa shirts.  She got the biggest kick out of that!  They hooked her up with a balloon and card.  I also got her something special.  I had to clear it through the medical folks and all first.  What Anissa wanted more than anything was Chinese food.  Something she couldn’t pronounce.  So last night, we shared a little chicken lo mein together.  She was ecstatic, and wanted me to leave the leftovers with her, so she could snack.  I opted not to go that far, and only let her have about half of it.  She was in her glory.  We simply hung out for the night, and talked, just like we’d do any other birthday night after the kids went to bed.  She finally asked me some details about what happened.  I told her she’d had two strokes, and that was why this one was taking longer to recover from.  She actually remembers a lot of detail from that day.  She remembers calling me, then nothing.  At some point, when we write the book, we’ll share what she remembers from the coma.  It’s pretty thought provoking stuff.

Ah yes, the book.  So, we’ve decided on a couple of long term goals.  Goals are good.  They give you something to shoot for, and surpass.  First off, we’ve agreed, verbally, to speak at a conference in August.  I’m still on the fence about that, because there’s travel involved, and we’ve already spent so much time apart.  We’ve also agreed to write a book.  Her recovery is going to take quite a while, and I figured what better way to remember the past than to write about it.  The day I came up with that idea, I went in to see her and before I could tell her about it, she told me she had a dream that we wrote a book together.  Anyone know a good publisher?

Ok, I’ve jabbered long enough.  There’s one more bit of business I’d like to share with you all.

For her birthday, Anissa wanted to write a little note to you all, and maybe take that first little step back into the blogosphere.  As part of her therapy, Anissa’s speech therapist helped her come up with the following.  This is Anissa talking and Erin typing:

Things I’ve picked up from being in the hospital

  • 8 year old underwear- don’t wear it.  Wearing underwear that doesn’t belong to you is bad for your health (it was my daughter’s).
  • The fact that my OT wants to kill me by zapping my arm. They’re onto me…and I’m onto them.
  • I wear glasses with tape on them because the OT tells me they will correct my vision. But I think they make me look like Urkel.
  • My “bra” (also known as an omotrain sling)- obviously an issue and meant to kill me.
  • The best thing that has happened to me is realizing that I can do more than I thought I could. I felt weak and I felt tired and I found out that I am able. I have things that I can’t do, but I can still try.
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145 Comments on “Do-overs”

  1. #1 Maria
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:24 pm

    So inspiring, Peter.

    I’m cheering for you all! So proud of Anissa for her note. Very cool.

    Reply

  2. #2 Maya
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:25 pm

    Beautiful. We miss you girl. Get better soon please.

    Reply

  3. #3 Kat @Drawing Cowboys
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:25 pm

    This is so great to hear. And that is a book i will definitely read. <3

    Reply

  4. #4 Jill
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:25 pm

    My heart just swells reading this. Happy Belated Birthday, Anissa!! If the conference in August is BlogHer, then I’m going to have to find a way to get there.

    Reply

  5. #5 Apryl's Antics
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:26 pm

    And you will KEEP trying!

    Reply

  6. #6 muskrat
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:26 pm

    So glad to hear she had a good birthday. I hope to see more “dictated via Erin” messages here in the future, until they’re replaced by real posts from Anissa’s very own fingers!

    Reply

  7. #7 Tina
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:27 pm

    You’re on your way!! YAY!!! I’m SO proud of you :)

    Reply

  8. #8 jenn
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:28 pm

    shes back!!!!

    Reply

  9. #9 Brittany
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:28 pm

    You Mayhews never fail to bring the awesome!

    Such great news, and Anissa…you post was AWESOME!

    Reply

  10. #10 Issa
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:28 pm

    I love this post. Was hoping for an update soon. I think a book would be amazing, I know I’d buy it.

    Hey Anissa, the underwear thing, made me shoot coffee through my nose. I am a very visual thinker. Ha. Thanks for that. :) Happy birthday sweetheart.

    Reply

  11. #11 Mandi Bone
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:29 pm

    It is so good to hear from you. I have been in a coma too. I can’t wait to swap coma stories with you. Keep up the great work.

    Reply

  12. #12 Melanie @ Mel, A Dramatic Mommy
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:29 pm

    All of these updates warm my heart. Thank you for keeping us in the loop. Go Anissa!

    Reply

  13. #13 tena
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:29 pm

    Goals are great! I can’t wait to read the book!

    Reply

  14. #14 Bridget
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:29 pm

    A books sounds like a fantastic idea! Happy Birthday Anissa, I am so happy for the huge steps forward you are taking. Truly wonderful news :) Keep up the great work! xo Bridget

    Reply

  15. #15 Chibi Jeebs
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:30 pm

    “The best thing that has happened to me is realizing that I can do more than I thought I could. I felt weak and I felt tired and I found out that I am able. I have things that I can’t do, but I can still try.”

    Oh, Anissa. <3 Also? The underwear bit? BWA HA HAAAAA!

    I’m so proud of both of you, of ALL of you. Still praying. xoxo

    Reply

  16. #16 Kim @ Beautiful Wreck
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:31 pm

    She is a real fighter!!! And you are too funny.
    You two will write a great book together.

    Reply

  17. #17 Suebob
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:32 pm

    Yay for progress. I love seeing Anissa’s pic on the BlogHer header. Rooting for you all.

    Reply

  18. #18 Themaggers
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:32 pm

    Keep fighting mayhews! Love to you all

    Reply

  19. #19 kia
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:33 pm

    Happy Belated Birthday Anissa! I never knew you before the stroke but am jazzed to get to know you in the aftermath. I have no doubt that conferences and a bestseller are in your future.

    Reply

  20. #20 kpotterbaum
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:35 pm

    Awesome news all the way around. Thanks so much for sharing.

    Reply

  21. #21 Andrea
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:37 pm

    Total wOOOOOOOOOt!!!!!

    (about Anissa… not about your t.v.~ sorry about that one. Don’t worry… I’ll cheer the Colts for ya! :-)

    Reply

  22. #22 Crystal D
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:38 pm

    “I felt weak and I felt tired and I found out that I am able.”

    You are an incredible lady.

    Reply

  23. #23 Angie [A Whole Lot of Nothing]
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:39 pm

    Keep it up and keep pushing!

    I love you, and I’ll be one of the first to buy the book so I can read about how Ralph Macchio joined the cast of Glee just to sing to you. (Isn’t that what you saw in your coma?)

    Reply

  24. #24 Tanis Miller, RNM
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:39 pm

    Oh Anissa, I’m so happy for you.

    I can’t wait to see you again.

    Reply

  25. #25 Debra Muccio
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:42 pm

    Happy Birthday…..what a great way to celebrate!!

    Reply

  26. #26 Karin
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:44 pm

    I am so happy to see that both Anissa and Peyton are doing so well.
    Happy belated birthday!!

    Reply

  27. #27 mommabird2345
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:46 pm

    Anissa you are awesome!! Keep up the great work.

    Reply

  28. #28 katie | motherbumper
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:47 pm

    This post makes me all kinds of happy. Go Team Anissa!

    Reply

  29. #29 Diana, The Doggy Mommy
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:49 pm

    Can’t wait to read the book! Glad you guys had a great celebration for Anissa’s b-day!

    The miracles are still coming, Thank you God, keep em coming!

    Reply

  30. #30 adrianscrazylife
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:51 pm

    I would love to read a book about this. In fact, I’m reading Stroke of Insight right now and it’s so fascinating to see what was going on with her and seeing her experience of her stroke. It’s nice to see what is possible.

    Reply

  31. #31 Kim ~ CraftyMamaof4
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:55 pm

    Happy Birthday Anissa :)
    Thinking of you everyday. Keep fighting you’re almost there!

    Reply

  32. #32 Lorrian
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 1:57 pm

    In tears here at work. Thank you for sharing Anissa’s story - all of you are so inspiring.

    I WILL be buying your book, too!

    Reply

  33. #33 MommaLionessMichele
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 2:03 pm

    Happy Birthday, Anissa! So happy to read good things are happening.

    Reply

  34. #34 pam
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 2:05 pm

    Anissa - They sure do want to kill you a lot. Don’t let the bastards get you sweetheart ;)

    Reply

  35. #35 Two Makes Four
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 2:13 pm

    Happy (belated) birthday! So cool to see Anissa’s note!

    Reply

  36. #36 Dawn
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 2:14 pm

    Happy Birthday, Beautiful -

    Reply

  37. #37 Caroline aka Morningside Mom
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 2:15 pm

    I love hearing your “voice” Anissa. Happy birthday!!!!

    Reply

  38. #38 Tara
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 2:15 pm

    Great news! Do-overs sound fantastic, and it’s great to see Anissa writing again! I have a publisher friend, will ask some questions, and get back to you soon!

    Reply

  39. #39 Melissa - The Sisterhood of the Shrinking Jeans
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 2:19 pm

    I love this post so much! I am so happy that you are both continuing to kick ass! So inspiring.

    Reply

  40. #40 Hockeymandad
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 2:22 pm

    So glad to hear all the positive things and to hear from Anissa herself!

    Reply

  41. #41 VDog
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 2:23 pm

    Go, Team Anissa, Go!!!

    Happy Belated, love.

    Reply

  42. #42 MommaKiss
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 2:25 pm

    The hope and determination in Anissa. Dayum it’s unbelievable. Happy Belated Birthday!

    Reply

  43. #43 Tricia (irishsamom)
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 2:25 pm

    WOW. This post is so inspiring. Tell Anissa to keep getting better and sending prayers and hope to you and the family every day.

    Love,
    Tricia and family xox

    Reply

  44. #44 Emily
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 2:25 pm

    I work for a publisher, actually. Though we technically don’t take unsolicited manuscripts, this would be a great book and they’d probably make an exception. Let me know if you’re serious and want more information.

    Reply

  45. #45 Jessica
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 2:31 pm

    The book is a great idea. Strokes are the most common way adults become disabled (and this is world-wide) and any book that talks about strokes and recovering from strokes and provides information (and humor) for the people who love the one recovering from the stroke will be popular. Heck, you might even make money at this.

    Anissa - you are a rock star. I’ve only become a follower since your stroke and I adore you. Keep working - I’m counting on reading your blog(s) and your book(s) for years to come.

    Reply

  46. #46 cindy w
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 2:33 pm

    Go, Team Anissa! Happy birthday, lady! XOXO

    Reply

  47. #47 Matthew
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 2:45 pm

    So great to see Anissa’s humor and spirit in that “post.” Happy birthday, Anissa!

    Also, Peter, I’m a little heartbroken about your TV. *Man Hug*

    Reply

  48. #48 FourInchHeels
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 2:47 pm

    If you choose to go that route, Amazon (and I suspect a few others) has begun offering the option to self-publish. It’s surprisingly cheap, and might be something you want to look into. http://www.amazon.com/gp/seller-account/mm-summary-page.html?ie=UTF8&ld=AZFooterSelfPublish&topic=200260520 will get you started learning what you need to in order to publish your manuscript.

    Reply

  49. #49 uberVU - social comments
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 2:48 pm

    Social comments and analytics for this post…

    This post was mentioned on Twitter by chibijeebs: RT @AnissaMayhew: New blog post: Do-overs http://www.hope4peyton.org/2010/do-overs/...

  50. #50 Bridget
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 3:00 pm

    What great news!

    Reply

  51. #51 shauna
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 3:06 pm

    Love you Anissa! Awesome post.

    Keep it up!

    xoxo

    Reply

  52. #52 DESERA JOHNSON
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 3:14 pm

    I am LOVING the do over idea for Thanksgiving! And the book?? that is the best idea ever! I am going to first in line to get that one! So glad you had a nice celebration and Anissa was able to eat chinese food for her birthday! that’s awesome!
    This post couldn’t have been any better unless the TV wasn’t broken! LOL sorry Peter!
    Peyton keep rocking those counts! Glad you got a little one on one with Mommy!
    As always thanks for the update. constantly in prayer for your wonderful family!
    ♥ Love you Mayhews♥

    Reply

  53. #53 robyn
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 3:34 pm

    Wow, wow, wow. So happy to see Anissa’s own words! So glad that Peyton is “fine”. So glad for you and your fam. Will continue to pray for you all.

    Reply

  54. #54 amy2boys
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 3:34 pm

    Hi Anissa!! It’s so good to see an update from you! I’ll pre-order 10 copies of that book honey.

    Reply

  55. #55 Kellee
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 3:35 pm

    SO good to hear from Anissa. Looking good, guys… well done!

    Reply

  56. #56 Lindsay
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 3:38 pm

    WOOHOOO!!! Such FAB news all the way around!!! :)
    Continuing to pray for all of you!!!

    Reply

  57. #57 Debbie in Memphis
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 4:10 pm

    It’s wonderful to hear from you and Anissa! Keeping you all in my thoughts, prayers and praises!! Go Team Anissa! GO!

    Reply

  58. #58 Heather @ Domestic Extraordinaire
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 4:32 pm

    So incredibly excited about the news…go Anissa go!!

    Reply

  59. #59 Glenda
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 4:41 pm

    Continuing to pray for all of you! The book idea is great! Go Anissa!

    Reply

  60. #60 AmazingGreis
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 4:45 pm

    Such amazing and great news! So glad to hear all the positives and that Anissa’s birthday was good.

    Go, Anissa, GO!!!

    XOXO

    Reply

  61. #61 Melissa Multitasking Mama
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 5:45 pm

    God is good! So happy to see she is making such great gains!

    Reply

  62. #62 Andrea's Sweet Life
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 6:02 pm

    So many cheers for the Mayhew Family in the window - you are looking damn fine from here!

    So glad to hear that things are progressing so well!

    xoxo

    Reply

  63. #63 Trisha Vargas
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 6:05 pm

    Sign me up on the book pre-order list.

    God Bless!!

    Reply

  64. #64 Headless Mom
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 6:08 pm

    Happy Tears! Go Team Anissa!

    Reply

  65. #65 Janine (@twincident)
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 6:09 pm

    Yay! an update! I will offer my proof-reading skillz to that book (and not just so I can get an early peek, ahem) and can’t believe I just read the first blog post caption from Anissa! OMG - she really is BACK!

    Peter - I think you def. win the husband-of-the year award and that should be the 2nd book. Have it come out on Father’s Day.

    Reply

  66. #66 The Broke Socialite
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 6:19 pm

    Mwah!

    Reply

  67. #67 Alli Worthington
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 6:19 pm

    Big happy, snotty tears for Anissa!

    Go Anissa Go!

    Reply

  68. #68 designHer Momma
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 6:20 pm

    One year ago, I met you for the first time. We went to blissdom, we went to Coyote Ugly, we had a GREAT time. I miss you like crazy, but glad you are on the road to recovery and know you will be back soon. No doubt about it, I’m a part of Team Anissa. Cannot WAIT for that book. I’ll take 20…

    Reply

  69. #69 Karen Hartzell, Graco
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 6:29 pm

    You’ll get there Girl! We are all behind you! You are truly an inspiration to what people can do.

    We know you got this! :-)

    Reply

  70. #70 Adventures In Babywearing
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 6:31 pm

    I MISS YOU ANISSA! My hope was that you’ll surprise us and show up at Blissdom. Of COURSE I think it’s still possible. You can do anything.

    Love love love
    Steph

    Reply

  71. #71 Becs
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 6:37 pm

    Love, dudes and dudettes. Lots of love. Praying to the Blessed Mother to give you strength, Anissa.

    Reply

  72. #72 The Diaper Diaries
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 6:38 pm

    Blissdom will not be the same without you. Here’s to you being the keynote at Blissdom 2011, talking about your book!!!

    Reply

  73. #73 Rachael @PineappleBabble
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 6:46 pm

    WOOOOHOOOOOZIEEEEEE!!!!!

    Reply

  74. #74 Amanda @ High Impact Mom
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 7:03 pm

    *Tears* Thank you again Peter. We miss you so Anissa. Welcome back.

    Reply

  75. #75 Allie
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 7:11 pm

    I have chills. Awesome awesome awesome!!

    Reply

  76. #76 Shelley Philibin
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 7:15 pm

    I see a spot on the New York Times Best Seller List in your future. I can’t wait to read everything you two write. Go Team Anissa! You’re an amazing family!

    Reply

  77. #77 Luci
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 7:27 pm

    Wonderful update! I’m happy for Peyton and happy for the progress Anissa is making!

    Reply

  78. #78 Dawn Tucker
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 7:31 pm

    Oh, such great news about Peyton - and so glad she got to tell Mom all on her own. And awesome news about the book - I promise to do my best to make it an international best seller!!

    Anissa, it made my heart smile to see your note. All those things you want to do - keep trying girl - you’ll get there in the end. BTW, do tell us why you were wearing Rachel’s underwear. LOL!
    Love ya!

    Reply

  79. #79 Amy Driehorst (@amyjod)
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 8:03 pm

    Such great news! Thanks again for sharing! I’m still working on the twitter book for you…it’s going to be massive!

    I’m especially glad to hear about Peyton. I’ve been so worried since you hadn’t mentioned anything for quite some time. I was afraid you got bad news and just couldn’t bear to make it public. So thankful that wasn’t the case!

    Forget the book, tell her to start thinking about who will play her in the movie! I’m guessing she’ll want Ralph Macchio to play you. lol

    Reply

  80. #80 Amanda
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 8:09 pm

    It is so wonderful to hear from Anissa! I’m also beyond thrilled to read of the good news regarding Peyton.

    I’m already looking forward to reading your book. Prayers continue!

    Reply

  81. #81 Kristin
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 8:28 pm

    Welcome back to the blogosphere Anissa! I really hope the conference y’all are going to speak at in August is BlogHer. Hehehe, I just said to someone yesterday that I hoped Anissa would be at BlogHer so I could meet the woman who has inspired so many of us.

    I can’t wait for your book. It will be AMAZING.

    Reply

  82. #82 Rebecca (Ramblings by Reba)
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 8:38 pm

    I was wondering about Peyton the other day. Glad her tests came back good. :)

    Good to see some of Anissa’s words.

    Glad to hear you’re writing a book. That will be great for you, even if no one else ever reads it. (And I’m sure lots of folks will.)

    Reply

  83. #83 Christine
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 8:42 pm

    YAY! That last bit, Jeez, people, way to make a girl get all verklempt at work.

    Reply

  84. #84 Melissa @MBonn
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 8:46 pm

    A book! That is so awesome. When that happens, I’m so there. Before this happened I had only cried happy tears once in my life, now I find myself teary eyed over every post. I’m so grateful for every step closer you guys get to that big price tag. Praise God!!

    Reply

  85. #85 Lee
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 9:08 pm

    You go girl (and guy)!! Tell me where to buy the book. I am there!

    Reply

  86. #86 Lisa
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 9:48 pm

    What an awesome update, especially the little note from Anissa at the end :) Can’t wait to read the book!!

    Still praying for you guys and looking forward to more happy updates.

    Reply

  87. #87 Maggie, dammit
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 10:01 pm

    What a treat to hear your
    voice at the end!

    Happy birthday dear girl! xoxoxo

    Reply

  88. #88 tricia
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 10:06 pm

    It is so good to hear from you again, Annissa. I am praying for you, that you will recover and make it home quickly. May God abundantly bless you and yours.

    Reply

  89. #89 Katja of Skimbaco
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 10:07 pm

    Happy late birthday my friend, and keep it up, keep it up. The book - brilliance!

    Reply

  90. #90 DonnaPatterson
    on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 10:31 pm

    I’m so thrilled that your birthday was a success!!! You have come a long way little lady!!! I’ll be waiting on that book.

    Reply

  91. #91 Ally
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 12:24 am

    And what an inspiring book it will be!
    Anissa’s continued improvement is a great birthday present for your whole family.

    Reply

  92. #92 Deb Rox
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 1:28 am

    So wonderful. So NOT FAIR about your TV. They can do better! Can’t wait for the book, screenplay, all of it, all of it!

    Reply

  93. #93 maryleigh
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 1:48 am

    Thanksgiving in April? Or Merry ThanksGivaween? At Easter? I have learned to never letter a calendar rule when there’s a celebration. We’ve had Jan birthdays in June - and I often move my day if anyone’s grumpy - so just have a Big Turkey Day whenever you want!

    I am so happy for you guys! God is MIGHTY! And Anissa is MIGHT in GOD!

    Reply

  94. #94 Amy Nasworthy
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 8:36 am

    Thanks for the update Peter & Annisa!! Glad to hear that things are moving along in the right direction. I check back often to see how things are going. I wish I was closer so I could come and visit. Keep up the good work guys!!
    Much love & many prayers!

    Reply

  95. #95 Melisa with one s
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 8:58 am

    You GO Anissa!

    Stay Strong, Mayhews! xoxo

    Reply

  96. #96 Nancy
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 9:51 am

    Great update! Loved that Anissa threw in a note, :)

    Reply

  97. #97 Jen
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 9:59 am

    Anissa is amazing…awe-inspiring actually. Thank you for continuing to share your family’s story with us. It inspires me…and makes me realize that if you guys can get through this, I can get through my own troubled times.

    Go Anissa!

    Reply

  98. #98 Kelly Holt
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 11:38 am

    I too just found this site and your story after your stroke but have gone back and read you earlier posts about Peyton and have become a follower of Aiming Low as well. Am truly glad to hear you are making so much progress and that your family is strong enough to share your story with us. Happy Belated B-day and keep progressing in small steps day by day.

    Reply

  99. #99 Fairly Odd Mother
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 11:49 am

    Love hearing from Anissa! (and from you too Peter!)

    Reply

  100. #100 Donna D @donna_de
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 2:23 pm

    Happy birthday Anissa. I have to take some photos of me in my Team Anissa shirt for you - around town in London!

    Your last bullet - about trying - is going to be quoted on my blog tomorrow with a link. Hope that is ok. Your spirit inspires. My thoughts are with you, Peter and family.

    And I can’t wait to read the book!

    Reply

  101. #101 Jett
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 3:08 pm

    Crap. I’m in tears over here.

    Reply

  102. #102 Sisterlisa
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 7:09 pm

    aww ((waving)) Hi Anissa!!! So glad to ‘hear’ from you.

    Reply

  103. #103 amanda
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 8:11 pm

    This is just great!

    Reply

  104. #104 MusingsfromMe/Jill
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 8:16 pm

    So glad to hear that you are having more good days. A book is a fantastic idea. Anissa…keep on keepin’ on!

    Reply

  105. #105 Nanette
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 8:28 pm

    YES Anissa. You keep trying. You can do it!

    Reply

  106. #106 Jessica
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 8:32 pm

    Anissa:

    1. Okay, I suck, happy birthday two days late. My punishment: I will share my dessert next time you and I see each other.

    2. Wow. You’re recovery is incredilbe and damn right there is a book there. Sending you huge hugs, lots of love and okay, A BITE, just a bite, of my chocolate cake.

    oxxo

    Reply

  107. #107 Stacey
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 8:35 pm

    Anissa is so ridiculously awesome. … a present to us on her birthday. Love it. Love her!!

    Reply

  108. #108 Elizabeth
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 8:46 pm

    You can count on me to buy that book, and if the conference is BlogHer, I’ll be there! I hope Anissa is prepared for the standing ovation she’s guaranteed to get. I’m so proud of her for how hard she’s working at recovery! And thanks to you, Peter, for everything you’re doing as well. You both rock.

    Reply

  109. #109 MommyNamedApril
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 8:51 pm

    still rooting for you!

    also… if you have a costco card, they have a no questions asked return policy on their electronics. you know… if you wanted to watch the superbowl on something awesome and the geek squad didn’t come through… just as a last resort :-)

    Reply

  110. #110 BlondeBlogger
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 9:00 pm

    Gooooo Anissa!! Just saw Anissa’s tweet tonight and I am smiling from ear to ear!!! And let me say that I will be first in line to buy the book once it’s published!

    Reply

  111. #111 Petit Elefant
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 9:37 pm

    WELCOME BACK!!!

    Reply

  112. #112 Elizabeth
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 9:42 pm

    Hi Peter and Anissa,

    I’ve little doubt that someone FAR more important than I will come along and offer to publish your book when it’s written. But Anissa’s the kind of woman who inspires people to throw their hat into the proverbial ring. Therefore, I’ll throw out there that my publishing house, Finn-Phyllis Press, published my first two book and will release the third this spring.

    If it felt right on your end, I’d welcome the opportunity to chat with you about your book when the time is right. Even if only to bounce some ideas around. It would truly be an honor to be involved in any way.

    On all other fronts, you guys are on your way!

    -elizabeth

    Reply

  113. #113 A Vapid Blonde
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 10:47 pm

    This is amazing..You both are amazing. Wow!

    Reply

  114. #114 Maura
    on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 11:04 pm

    This is so encouraging and so wonderful. It always makes my day to read about the progress. Love to you all.

    Reply

  115. #115 Diane
    on Feb 4th, 2010 at 12:54 am

    Hello there! You are amazing!!!

    Reply

  116. #116 LisaUnfiltered
    on Feb 4th, 2010 at 10:08 am

    Peter, http://abc.go.com watch LOST. It was GREAT!

    Reply

  117. #117 Alicia @bethsix
    on Feb 4th, 2010 at 2:36 pm

    Anissa is back! Woot!

    Reply

  118. #118 Velma
    on Feb 4th, 2010 at 8:48 pm

    Wow! You guys are batting 100% in the “Make Me Weep When Reading This Blog” category. Strong work!

    Reply

  119. #119 Lisa @ Crazy Adventures in Parenting
    on Feb 4th, 2010 at 10:19 pm

    Between her tweet and her note, I’m floating for you all!! AHH! Go Anissa!

    (By the way, respect knuckles for the ass-whoopin’ you dished for your TV, bro. Rock it!)

    Reply

  120. #120 Mark (Dudge OH)
    on Feb 5th, 2010 at 1:52 am

    Awesome stuff. *s*

    And a belated Happy Birthday, Anissa!

    Reply

  121. #121 Sara Broers
    on Feb 5th, 2010 at 12:28 pm

    You can do it, you will do it! As a Mom who spent 8 months in physical therapy at the age of 39 and had to learn how to walk again! If I can do it, you can too! I’ve been in shoes very similar to yours. i understand the needle prodding, but it’s so darn necessary to get those nerves awakened! Keep it up girl, you can do it! Hey, you are younger than I was- you can do it!

    Reply

  122. #122 Jenny, Bloggess
    on Feb 5th, 2010 at 12:28 pm

    I can’t wait to read that book.

    Reply

  123. #123 Kathee
    on Feb 5th, 2010 at 12:50 pm

    You know, Anissa, you are a true inspiration to so many people. I read the blogs your husband writes (I didn’t quite follow beforehand until my sister told me your story and told me you had disappeared and she was worried) and I am at some point throughout the blog thrown into tears of awe. I hope you both know that your yet-to-be-written book probably already has many buyers waiting in line…and I am one of the first.

    Reply

  124. #124 Katie
    on Feb 5th, 2010 at 6:23 pm

    Pete - I have several friends who are authors. I can check into publisher info, and, more importantly, information about agents. When you have a chance (in all your free time … ), send me a paragraph that sums up the approach you would want to take with the book, and I’ll see what I can do.

    Reply

  125. #125 Christi
    on Feb 5th, 2010 at 9:03 pm

    So glad to read this, as always! You keep inspiring me, girl! I’m so proud to call you my friend! A year ago we met for the first time at Blissdom, and I feel confident that we will meet again someday. Much love and prayers!

    Reply

  126. #126 Karen MEG
    on Feb 6th, 2010 at 9:26 am

    Happy belated sweet Anissa!

    This was such a wonderful post, Peter. I’m so glad that Peyton is doing okay too, and that you’ve got this great project (the book that shall fly off the shelves) to work on together.

    Amazed to hear Anissa’s “voice” again.

    Reply

  127. #127 Rhonda
    on Feb 6th, 2010 at 2:55 pm

    You’re bravery. You’re wit. You’re family. You’re love. You’re inspiration.

    Team Anissa for the Win!

    Reply

  128. #128 Helen
    on Feb 7th, 2010 at 2:36 pm

    Wow! Still praying - in Brazil!

    Reply

  129. #129 Susan (5 Minutes for Mom)
    on Feb 8th, 2010 at 7:37 pm

    What an awesome update!!!!!

    I’m sooooo excited to hear you’re writing a book! Sign me up for the pre-order list.

    Reply

  130. #130 MaNiC MoMMy
    on Feb 8th, 2010 at 7:51 pm

    I love Anissa’s note! Tell her the last time she and I talked on Twitter we chatted about her not wanting to put on a bathing suit - I think she was supposed to do a Disney trip. Tell her (if you think she’ll laugh, which I think she will), that this was one hell of a way to get outta putting on that suit, and also FML, which to me, at the time, I didn’t know what it meant, and I told her I thought it meant, Fuck Me Loud, which is what it should mean! God bless! Peter, you’re a Godsend. Anissa, you’re an angel!

    Reply

  131. #131 Christina Gleason @ Cutest Kid Ever
    on Feb 9th, 2010 at 2:45 pm

    I don’t know how I missed this before, but this is such good news! Glad to see that Anissa had some things to say to us, and that she definitely hasn’t lost her sense of humor. :-)

    Reply

  132. #132 Gale
    on Feb 9th, 2010 at 3:37 pm

    Peter - I’ve been reading your blog since Heather Spohr wrote about Annisa in November. I’m commenting for the first time now because a friend of mine (mother of 3, about the same ages as your kids) went into a coma last week due to blood clots in her brain. After two brain surgeries, she’s still not awake, but she’s stable. Assuming she wakes up, she and her husband and kids will be on a journey eerily similar to yours - months in the hospital, months of rehab, etc. I’m wondering if you have any books, websites, or other resources that you’d recommend for families going through this kind of trauma.

    Thanks,
    Gale

    Reply

    Gale Reply:

    Oops, sorry I misspelled Anissa. My apologies.

    Reply

    Peter Mayhew Reply:

    Gale, hopefully you got my emails last night.

    Reply

  133. #133 Tracy
    on Feb 10th, 2010 at 10:31 am

    So happy to hear about your book! I can hardly wait for up-dates on here…….I’m sure the book will be a “can’t put it down until I’m done”, number 1 on the NY Times best seller list.
    Continued prayers, good wishes and love from Colorado.

    Reply

  134. #134 jennster
    on Feb 10th, 2010 at 6:07 pm

    OMG THE BOOK and what she remembers while being in a coma has me OVER THE MOON!!!!!!!! i cannot wait to hear and read about it… and i think it’s an INCREDIBLE idea and i love and support it…. and AM SO HAPPY! :)

    hi anissa, you sexy bitch you. miss your fine ass and love you tons. :) xoxoxoxo

    Reply

  135. #135 anymommy
    on Feb 12th, 2010 at 12:22 pm

    I’ve gotten behind on my reading. But, I’m always thinking of you.

    Reply

  136. #136 Angela at mommy bytes
    on Feb 12th, 2010 at 5:18 pm

    Go Anissa! Happy Birthday.

    Reply

  137. #137 @JennyQ
    on Feb 13th, 2010 at 7:29 am

    Just dropping by to say “HI” and you are all being thought of — The Lord Bless you and Keep you — All :-) Jenn

    Reply

  138. #138 Snarky Amber
    on Feb 14th, 2010 at 5:55 pm

    Happy Valentine’s Day, Anissa. Miss you so much. Peter, thinking of you and hoping to hear from you soon about our girl.

    Reply

  139. #139 Motherofbun
    on Feb 15th, 2010 at 7:39 pm

    Am cheering you on Anissa!

    Thinking about you all very much! (And now I’m hungry for Chinese food!)

    Reply

  140. #140 schmutzie
    on Feb 16th, 2010 at 10:03 am

    This is very belated, but Happy Birthday, Anissa!

    Reply

  141. #141 Malia
    on Feb 16th, 2010 at 10:23 pm

    Awesome, simply awesome.

    Reply

  142. #142 Becky
    on Feb 18th, 2010 at 9:47 am

    Big hugs and prayers for the Mayhew family. I hope everything is going well!

    Reply

  143. #143 Al_Pal
    on Feb 18th, 2010 at 11:41 pm

    So inspiring. Happy Belated Birthday!

    Reply

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