Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Christian's 2 year pictures
....or rather 22 month pictures, (taken in October 2010) but close enough. I got the first one because he is standing and basically charging the camera. It's not the best smile but shows his attitude and spunk. Enjoy!
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
My baby is perfect
I have been neglecting my blog lately. Not so much on purpose but due to the fact that I haven't had much to say. I had a pretty special moment with Christian this morning though; and I want to share it.
I was changing his diaper and he kept sticking his feet in my face so just playing with him I started tickling his feet; kissing and blowing. I am pretty sure he can feel it although I guess we won't know how much until he starts talking to us. What is so funny is that he just started giggling when I rubbed my finger from his heel to his toes.
I think the bottom of his feet are tickle-ish. The right foot more than the left, but none the less.
I am just so amazed every single day by this little boy! He is going to be 2 in a few short weeks and that makes me sad, but at the same time I am in awe of him. He WALKS or toddles and it is so freakin cute! He doesn't need bracing right now; but the doctors are keeping him on the "watch" list that he may need them in the future.
When we first got the diagnosis before he was born we were given the worst case senario and prepared. 2 years later, my baby is perfect. Yes, he has issues with bowel and is in medication to relax his bladder. He is about six months behind developmentally and doesn't say more than two words yet. We have physical therapy and a teacher that comes to work with him. He will talk when he is ready.
But take that doctors - he walks and it is so darn cute! And he is tickle-ish on the bottom of his feet.
that's all for now...
I was changing his diaper and he kept sticking his feet in my face so just playing with him I started tickling his feet; kissing and blowing. I am pretty sure he can feel it although I guess we won't know how much until he starts talking to us. What is so funny is that he just started giggling when I rubbed my finger from his heel to his toes.
I think the bottom of his feet are tickle-ish. The right foot more than the left, but none the less.
I am just so amazed every single day by this little boy! He is going to be 2 in a few short weeks and that makes me sad, but at the same time I am in awe of him. He WALKS or toddles and it is so freakin cute! He doesn't need bracing right now; but the doctors are keeping him on the "watch" list that he may need them in the future.
When we first got the diagnosis before he was born we were given the worst case senario and prepared. 2 years later, my baby is perfect. Yes, he has issues with bowel and is in medication to relax his bladder. He is about six months behind developmentally and doesn't say more than two words yet. We have physical therapy and a teacher that comes to work with him. He will talk when he is ready.
But take that doctors - he walks and it is so darn cute! And he is tickle-ish on the bottom of his feet.
that's all for now...
Friday, October 29, 2010
Kids Halloween Costumes 2010
Colton, Maria and Caleb trick or treating at the mall.
Christian and Charlie trick or treating at the mall.
Nicole's gang with Maria
Monday, October 18, 2010
Spina Bifida Kids Worldwide Day of Prayer
October is Spina Bifida Awareness Month, and we SB moms have on our minds, more than anything, the precious unborn babies who are so often terminated before they even have a chance to prove their lives have meaning and value to the world. To say that 50% of all Spina Bifida affected pregnancies are terminated is a conservative estimate. But we SB moms know there is no reason to terminate a baby because of SB. Our children are beautiful and intelligent gifts from God who have every opportunity to live full, productive, and totally normal yet extraordinary lives.
So we proclaim Wednesday, October 20 as the Spina Bifida Kids Worldwide Day of Prayer. We believe in the power of prayer, and we are excited at the prospect of many people praying at the same time for these unborn babies. We moms can make a difference individually and collectively, but that is nothing compared to the change that can come if we have God on our side.
We will begin at noon EST. Pray for as long as you feel led. Pray individually or with another person or group. On your knees, at your desk, while driving your car … the logistics do not matter.
Here are a few things you can pray about specifically:
1. There is one woman in particular who is on our hearts. God knows who she is. She is expecting a child with Spina Bifida, and she is afraid and considering termination. Today (Wednesday) is her appointment with a pediatric neurosurgeon to find out the severity of her baby’s case and to learn more about the diagnosis. Please pray that she will go to this appointment with an open heart and mind, that the doctor will give her a prognosis that is realistic and hopeful (we believe these adjectives are not mutually exclusive when talking about SB), and that most of all, God will give this woman a peace beyond understanding and a clear indication that she should keep her baby or give it up for adoption. There are many mothers willing to adopt this baby.
2. Obstetricians are usually the doctors who first diagnose Spina Bifida based on a prenatal ultrasound. Unfortunately, most know very little about SB except for what to look for on the ultrasound. Many of us were told by our OBs very scary and inaccurate information, such as “Your baby will likely not survive,” “She will be a vegetable,” “Terminating is the most loving thing you can do for this baby.” If this is the first time you’ve really even heard of SB, and a doctor you trust tells you this, you’re probably going to believe it. Please pray that these doctors will be educated about the SB prognosis so that they can give the diagnosis accurately and compassionately.
3. We SB moms will always remember the day we received the diagnosis as one of the most terrifying days of our lives. An initial grief response is denial, which often presents as “Please make this problem go away.” Termination is offered quickly. Please pray for these mothers and fathers, that they will first and foremost trust God to get them through this scary and uncertain time instead of letting fear guide their decisions. That God will draw near to them and make His presence known, as He did for so many of us. That these parents will be so filled with His peace about the future and love for their child that they will consider carrying the baby to term the easiest choice.
4. These precious babies are absolutely innocent and helpless. They are being thrown away because they are not “perfect.” Not one of us is perfect. Please pray for the lives of these babies to be spared. That each movement and kick will remind the mother that God knit that baby in her womb exactly as he or she should be. That their lives will bring glory to our Father.
5. Many of us SB parents cite the support of our family members and friends as the biggest comfort during the time right after receiving the diagnosis. But there are also families and friends who are unsupportive and even encouraging of termination. Please pray for these family members and friends, that God will use them to minister healing to the parents’ breaking hearts. That they will be wholly supportive, not hurtful, and they will lift up and help these parents as their raise their child.
Feel free to add other suggestions for what we should pray. And please pass this on to friends, family, church prayer groups, prayer warriors, pastors, and strangers.
“Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:19-20 (NIV)
So we proclaim Wednesday, October 20 as the Spina Bifida Kids Worldwide Day of Prayer. We believe in the power of prayer, and we are excited at the prospect of many people praying at the same time for these unborn babies. We moms can make a difference individually and collectively, but that is nothing compared to the change that can come if we have God on our side.
We will begin at noon EST. Pray for as long as you feel led. Pray individually or with another person or group. On your knees, at your desk, while driving your car … the logistics do not matter.
Here are a few things you can pray about specifically:
1. There is one woman in particular who is on our hearts. God knows who she is. She is expecting a child with Spina Bifida, and she is afraid and considering termination. Today (Wednesday) is her appointment with a pediatric neurosurgeon to find out the severity of her baby’s case and to learn more about the diagnosis. Please pray that she will go to this appointment with an open heart and mind, that the doctor will give her a prognosis that is realistic and hopeful (we believe these adjectives are not mutually exclusive when talking about SB), and that most of all, God will give this woman a peace beyond understanding and a clear indication that she should keep her baby or give it up for adoption. There are many mothers willing to adopt this baby.
2. Obstetricians are usually the doctors who first diagnose Spina Bifida based on a prenatal ultrasound. Unfortunately, most know very little about SB except for what to look for on the ultrasound. Many of us were told by our OBs very scary and inaccurate information, such as “Your baby will likely not survive,” “She will be a vegetable,” “Terminating is the most loving thing you can do for this baby.” If this is the first time you’ve really even heard of SB, and a doctor you trust tells you this, you’re probably going to believe it. Please pray that these doctors will be educated about the SB prognosis so that they can give the diagnosis accurately and compassionately.
3. We SB moms will always remember the day we received the diagnosis as one of the most terrifying days of our lives. An initial grief response is denial, which often presents as “Please make this problem go away.” Termination is offered quickly. Please pray for these mothers and fathers, that they will first and foremost trust God to get them through this scary and uncertain time instead of letting fear guide their decisions. That God will draw near to them and make His presence known, as He did for so many of us. That these parents will be so filled with His peace about the future and love for their child that they will consider carrying the baby to term the easiest choice.
4. These precious babies are absolutely innocent and helpless. They are being thrown away because they are not “perfect.” Not one of us is perfect. Please pray for the lives of these babies to be spared. That each movement and kick will remind the mother that God knit that baby in her womb exactly as he or she should be. That their lives will bring glory to our Father.
5. Many of us SB parents cite the support of our family members and friends as the biggest comfort during the time right after receiving the diagnosis. But there are also families and friends who are unsupportive and even encouraging of termination. Please pray for these family members and friends, that God will use them to minister healing to the parents’ breaking hearts. That they will be wholly supportive, not hurtful, and they will lift up and help these parents as their raise their child.
Feel free to add other suggestions for what we should pray. And please pass this on to friends, family, church prayer groups, prayer warriors, pastors, and strangers.
“Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:19-20 (NIV)
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
I am not a very creative writer. I read everyone elses blogs and think to myself how much I agree with what is written. Then I think why didn't I write that down. I can think about writing something down and then never actually write it down. Anyways, with that said....
Christian had his neurosurgery follow up Monday morning. Everything went well. He is doing good and we go back again for a follow up in 6 months. Ortho is next week on the 15th. I am excited as we will get to show the doctor how Christian is taking steps and walking by himself for 5-10 steps at a time. :)
that's all for now....
Christian had his neurosurgery follow up Monday morning. Everything went well. He is doing good and we go back again for a follow up in 6 months. Ortho is next week on the 15th. I am excited as we will get to show the doctor how Christian is taking steps and walking by himself for 5-10 steps at a time. :)
that's all for now....
Friday, September 10, 2010
Big kids check up
This week we have had check ups for all of the big kids. Colton and Maria had their well child check and everything is good. Caleb has his 5 year well child check and his kindergarten shots.
Here is how they are growing up:
Colton is in the 70% for height and 75% for weight.
Maria is in the 60% for height and the 57% for weight.
Caleb is in the 75% for height and the 90% for weight.
Now this is only comparing them to other kids their ages, which really doesn't matter much to me. It is interesting and good to see that they are steady on the growth charts. They are all very porportioned and growing well. I told the nurse that Colton is almost skin and bones so I don't understand how his weight is 75 compared to 70 for height. This is why it doesn't matter much to me. If they lost weight they would all look almost sickly.
that's all for now...
Here is how they are growing up:
Colton is in the 70% for height and 75% for weight.
Maria is in the 60% for height and the 57% for weight.
Caleb is in the 75% for height and the 90% for weight.
Now this is only comparing them to other kids their ages, which really doesn't matter much to me. It is interesting and good to see that they are steady on the growth charts. They are all very porportioned and growing well. I told the nurse that Colton is almost skin and bones so I don't understand how his weight is 75 compared to 70 for height. This is why it doesn't matter much to me. If they lost weight they would all look almost sickly.
that's all for now...
Soccer - Colton
Colton had his first soccer game last night. Colton is on the bigger fields this season and it did prove to be a little more interesting than the 1-2 fields which are smaller. There are goalies now. Charlie and I are learning some more rules and new calls that are being called this year. It was fun to watch the kids work together to get to the goal. Colton helped assist in a couple of goals. He played 'forward' while he was in. He had fun and was all wore out after the game. We are very proud of him.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
ENT appointment
First - please excuse my typo errors. My 'OOOOO' key isn't working that great as the kids have popped it off and it won't go back on. Anyways.....So today we went to the ENT for Christian's 4 month check on his ears and throat. Initially we started going to the ENT because of his noisy breathing but the dr has always focused on the ears. I wasn't really excited or anxious about the appt, just figured he'd say ears good and be done. The doc checked Christian's ears, everything looks great. He passed his hearing test and the pressure looks great, a lot better than last time. Now we start talking and I tell him how spaghetti comes out Christian's nose. Sometimes it is even the next morning after he has slept all night after dinner. NOW...I know I have mentioned this to AT LEAST ONE DR already. But apparently this is news to him or I am just catching him in a curious sort of mood. So....we are going to have a swallow study done to see where this food is sitting and then coming out the nose 10-12 hours later. The swallow study is scheduled for Oct 5th. THEN....this is the part I like....we will go back to visit the dr 2 days after to discuss. Christian's first swallow study was done back before he was on solids so anything could have changed. Plus we never really got any answers at that time. We were just told to give him lots of drinks to help him get his food down.
So we will see. I am optimistic but somewhat pessimistic too.
Hoping for some results or answers....
So we will see. I am optimistic but somewhat pessimistic too.
Hoping for some results or answers....
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Soccer - Maria
The first soccer GAME of the season was tonight. Maria did a great job! She scored one goal and came VERY VERY close to scoring 2 more times but the other team caught up to her right before that final kick into the goal. Overall, we are very proud of how hard she worked and focused on the game tonight. It was a good night.
Thursday night is Colton's first game of the season.
that's all for now....
Thursday night is Colton's first game of the season.
that's all for now....
Saturday, September 4, 2010
It's late
It is 12:26 am LATE Fri night or earrrllllyyyy Saturday morning. Christian was just up screaming like crazy and wouldn't stop for nothing. I changed his diaper, got him a drink and rocked him to no avail. So finally I gave in and got out the tylenol. I am guessing either he has a tummy ache, can't breathe very well (from the stuffiness), his teeth, or all of the above. He has 5 teeth now. The 5th tooth popped early last week.
I am just making sure he will go back to sleep now before I go lie down and hopefully don't have to get back up again. oooppppp....he just made another sound....
I think I will try going back to bed now....
I am just making sure he will go back to sleep now before I go lie down and hopefully don't have to get back up again. oooppppp....he just made another sound....
I think I will try going back to bed now....
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Fall is almost here
School is back in session now, soccer practice has started, and we are back to having a busy schedule. I don't think I will ever be good at this blog stuff. Seems that when I need to write about something I forget and then when it is time to blog I forget everything I need to talk about.
This week was the first full week for the kids. Colton is doing awesome. He is at a new school for 3-5 graders in Lakewood. The school just finished a big addition and remodel and even has that brand new smell to it. Christian and I got to go have lunch with Colton this week. The lunch room is very nice. Maria is doing well. She is in the 2nd grade at Oviatt and seems to like her teacher. One thing that she was very excited about is that her and her friend Skylinn are in the same class. Skylinn is one of the kids I watch after school. Caleb is having a harder time adjusting. He is in kindergarten this year. The school and Caleb are working very hard with Caleb and there seems to be a little inprovement every day.
About 3:45 today I got a phone call from the 319 area code. It looked familiar so I answered. Sure enough it was the auto system at the hospital telling me it is time to schedule Christian for a neuro-surg check up. I knew it was coming up; I just didn't want to think about it. See, we are one of the few that haven't had any shunt problems yet and I am scared that the next appt or the next sickness will be our time. I don't dwell on it too much but when something triggers my thoughts, that's when worry sets in. As long as I keep this sort of thing to the back of my mind I am alright.
I found a couple boxes today down in the basement of kids clothes. I picked out all of the 24 mo and 2T clothes for Christian since he is about ready for the 24mo size. As I was doing this I was looking at each piece and remember Caleb, and even Colton in some, wearing the shirt or whatever and walking around. My mind kept going to "Oh I remember Caleb running all over in that shirt". Some of the clothes I wish I would have found months ago because now they are too small for Christian but would have fit him great in June or July. LOL
Christian is getting more and more ornery. He is just tall enough that he can reach the top part of the desk and toss off everything within the first 2-3 inches. So we are quickly learning to move things BACK farther. Yesterday he got into the bottom drawer and found a piece of paper that had cut outs on it. He entertained himself for probably 10-15 mins just tearing the paper up. Granted, it was a little bit of a mess, but he had fun. Then later he did it again after I had picked it up.
that's all for now...
This week was the first full week for the kids. Colton is doing awesome. He is at a new school for 3-5 graders in Lakewood. The school just finished a big addition and remodel and even has that brand new smell to it. Christian and I got to go have lunch with Colton this week. The lunch room is very nice. Maria is doing well. She is in the 2nd grade at Oviatt and seems to like her teacher. One thing that she was very excited about is that her and her friend Skylinn are in the same class. Skylinn is one of the kids I watch after school. Caleb is having a harder time adjusting. He is in kindergarten this year. The school and Caleb are working very hard with Caleb and there seems to be a little inprovement every day.
About 3:45 today I got a phone call from the 319 area code. It looked familiar so I answered. Sure enough it was the auto system at the hospital telling me it is time to schedule Christian for a neuro-surg check up. I knew it was coming up; I just didn't want to think about it. See, we are one of the few that haven't had any shunt problems yet and I am scared that the next appt or the next sickness will be our time. I don't dwell on it too much but when something triggers my thoughts, that's when worry sets in. As long as I keep this sort of thing to the back of my mind I am alright.
I found a couple boxes today down in the basement of kids clothes. I picked out all of the 24 mo and 2T clothes for Christian since he is about ready for the 24mo size. As I was doing this I was looking at each piece and remember Caleb, and even Colton in some, wearing the shirt or whatever and walking around. My mind kept going to "Oh I remember Caleb running all over in that shirt". Some of the clothes I wish I would have found months ago because now they are too small for Christian but would have fit him great in June or July. LOL
Christian is getting more and more ornery. He is just tall enough that he can reach the top part of the desk and toss off everything within the first 2-3 inches. So we are quickly learning to move things BACK farther. Yesterday he got into the bottom drawer and found a piece of paper that had cut outs on it. He entertained himself for probably 10-15 mins just tearing the paper up. Granted, it was a little bit of a mess, but he had fun. Then later he did it again after I had picked it up.
that's all for now...
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Bored
I am bored! Sometimes that can be a good thing I guess. We went from having something every night of the week in May to having a few things but only to get cancelled because of the stinkin' rain. Don't get me wrong, I like having free time but sometimes too much is just plain ol' boring.
Soccer ended and baseball is winding down. There have been so many cancelled/make up games that the league has ran out of make up days to schedule so now games are just being cancelled with no make up. We have had 2 games now cancelled without a make up scheduled. The league's resolution for this is to offer a discount when you register for the second summer league. At first we didn't think we would do it, but now I am reconsidering so that Colton can get more baseball in and more time with kids/boys his age (peer interaction).
The kids are out of school now. I am looking forward to spending the summer hanging out with them and getting out and doing things. I am just a bit discouraged because my first couple of attempts have flopped. First, we went to the zoo and they kept running off and not listening so I had to follow through with my threat to leave if they couldn't listen (It was the 7 and 8 year olds this time). Second, I filled up our pool and they turned it into a mud bath within 5 mins (the 5 and 8 yo). The pool thing was just yesterday and then today I was draining it. What sucks is that if we can't get out and do things and/or they won't behave then I don't know what to do with them. You would think they would want to be out and about and not holed up inside our boring house. Right?
I was looking forward to going to baseball tonight BUT once again the rain prevails and it was cancelled.
Oh well, I guess I just needed to vent. I am bored right now. It is nice that the kids are all playing nicely and no one is screaming or yelling or fighting with eachother. I am just not sure what to do with myself. Guess I could be cleaning.
that's all for now....
Soccer ended and baseball is winding down. There have been so many cancelled/make up games that the league has ran out of make up days to schedule so now games are just being cancelled with no make up. We have had 2 games now cancelled without a make up scheduled. The league's resolution for this is to offer a discount when you register for the second summer league. At first we didn't think we would do it, but now I am reconsidering so that Colton can get more baseball in and more time with kids/boys his age (peer interaction).
The kids are out of school now. I am looking forward to spending the summer hanging out with them and getting out and doing things. I am just a bit discouraged because my first couple of attempts have flopped. First, we went to the zoo and they kept running off and not listening so I had to follow through with my threat to leave if they couldn't listen (It was the 7 and 8 year olds this time). Second, I filled up our pool and they turned it into a mud bath within 5 mins (the 5 and 8 yo). The pool thing was just yesterday and then today I was draining it. What sucks is that if we can't get out and do things and/or they won't behave then I don't know what to do with them. You would think they would want to be out and about and not holed up inside our boring house. Right?
I was looking forward to going to baseball tonight BUT once again the rain prevails and it was cancelled.
Oh well, I guess I just needed to vent. I am bored right now. It is nice that the kids are all playing nicely and no one is screaming or yelling or fighting with eachother. I am just not sure what to do with myself. Guess I could be cleaning.
that's all for now....
Friday, May 21, 2010
May is a busy month...
May has been a busy month so far. The picture is from our first visit to the zoo after the kids early out the first week in May.
Charlie spent a week in Michigan for work. At first he thought he picked a week that wasn't very busy, but it turned out to be VERY busy instead. My week of being a "single" parent was pretty good. The kids worked very hard and helped me when I asked. We had therapy and doctor's appointments during the day, soccer two nights, AWANA, baseball practice and a music concert for my daughter. There was something every night of the week. But we made it, and I would like to think I did it without getting too overwhelmed and upset.
On Wednesday of this week Christian, the 1 year old, had an ENT appointment. I was pretty much disappointed with this appointment. We originally started going to the ENT for his "noisy breathing" but the doctor has made it about his ears. For the first time, the doctor is happy with how his ears look and test. When I asked about the adnoids (from previous blog) I felt that I was basically ignored, almost as if it was too easy or something. Now we don't go back for 4 months for a check up. So still we are nowhere closer on the noisy breathing! Very frustrating.
On Friday of that same week Caleb, my 5 year old, had an ENT appointment too. That's right 2 ENT appointments (with 2 different drs) in the same week. He has had chronic ear infections since he was a baby. Since the tube in the left ear (the right fell out a long time ago) came out a few months ago, his ear has been one infection after another. So the steroids didn't work. He is going to have to have a tube put back in. Dr Brown says he rarely does it, but will just do the one ear since the right ear has been fine. When I ask about the adnoids too he takes a look. His response was "He sure has some big tonsils! They could be problematic in the future" So our overall decision is to get it all done with one shot of anesthesia. Caleb will be having a tube put in his left ear, adnoids removed (again) and his tonsils removed. We have scheduled this all for after school is out so that I don't have to push recovery. His scheduled surgery day is June 15th. Dr Brown said the surgery will take 15-20 mins and we will be on our way. He makes it sound so simple. BUT...I know that the tonsils are a big deal and will have to stock my fridge with pudding, ice cream, popcicles, etc. It might be nice for a day or so when Caleb cannot scream at us. hmmm....
The kids are counting down to the last day of school. Our last day for school is June 8th. Of course Caleb being in preschool, he gets out a few days earlier. Then let the summer begin. I am looking forward to being outside and enjoying the summer with the kids. Hopefully we can have a lot of fun around all of our appointments. I am also hoping to be able to join the play group that I am in a couple of times this summer. I joined last year but have always had appointments and other committments when the group meets. I hope this year is different.
Colton's birthday is next Friday, the 28th. He is going to be 8! I sent his picture in for Birthday's on the 8 for KCCI. He is excited to see his picture on the news in the morning. Colton chose to have a pool party this Saturday (since his birthday is Memorial Day weekend) with some of his friends. This is after he has a double header in the morning for baseball. I hope they show up and it turns out well.
that's all for now....
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Christian's surgery
Christian had hernia repair surgery last Wednesday, April 21st. Everything went real well. The doctor said the hernia on the left was pretty big and there was a small one on the right side too. He didn't do anything with the umbilical though. He said that when he felt around it was even smaller than before and felt it wasn't necessary to do it right now. Worse case is he would have to have it done at 4 years if it starts getting big again.
Christian has healed up real well. He went to church with me Wednesday night and played with his friends. The hardest part for him was pulling himself up. He only required the tylenol with codeine 2 times. He is back at 100% now.
that's all for now....
Christian has healed up real well. He went to church with me Wednesday night and played with his friends. The hardest part for him was pulling himself up. He only required the tylenol with codeine 2 times. He is back at 100% now.
that's all for now....
Friday, April 16, 2010
Ears, Ears, and other things too
So today we shook things up a bit and Caleb actually had a doctor appointment. I know! Crazy, right? Caleb had an ear infection about a month ago but then a few days ago his symptoms reappeared. Wonderful! Caleb has already had two sets of tubes and his adnoids out when he was a baby. The doctor removed the last tube just a few months ago because it was not in place anymore. The right ear is doing great. It's that darn left ear that doesn't want to cooperate.
So off we go to see Dr Matt Brown. Not to my surprise, Caleb has fluid in his left ear. He prescribes him with 5 days of steriods to see if it will go down. We will recheck in three weeks. Dr asked about Caleb's sleeping, if he snores, etc. He said that kids should be nose breathers and not breathe through their mouths. Caleb sleeps on his back but his mouth is usually wide open while he is sleeping. Dr suggested that this could be his adnoids and that they have grown back. (Caleb had them removed when he was a baby but unlike tonsils they DO grow back) If the fluid is still there then he will want to do tubes and scrape out his adnoids again.
Then Dr looks at Christian in my lap and says "He sounds horrible" to which I reply that he always sounds like this. (we go to a different ENT for Christian) He asks me questions about Christian's breathing and if he always has his mouth open. To be honest, I replied that I haven't paid that much attention. (I didn't tell him anything about Christian's history or anything) He again said that this is a symptom, that kids should be nose breathers. He suggested that it is possible that Christian has enlarged adnoids. CRAZY HUH?! Maybe the breathing is something so very simple that we have been looking too deep. Is it possible?
So, next time we go to see Christian's ENT I am going to ask about this. We go back to the ENT in May. We were scheduled for this week, but since Christian still hasn't had his hernia surgery, I rescheduled his appointment to after the surgery. Since Caleb's appointment (an hour ago) I have been paying attention and the only time Christian closes his mouth is when he is sucking his thumb or eathing.
OH! Next week is going to be a busy week. Monday Christian has an orthopedic appointment in Iowa City. I am guessing that they will say everything is good. He is a little weaker on his right leg side but I am not sure if there is anything that can be done. Caleb will be traveling with us and miss school on Monday.
and then Christian's hernia repair surgery is NEXT WEDNESDAY the 21st at Mercy. Right now he is scheduled for outpatient at 9:00. We have to be there at 7:30am. We are praying that everything goes as planned with no complications. After anticipating this surgery for what seems like forever, it is almost here. Let's make it to the day this time. I am sure I will be a bundle of nerves on Wednesday.
that's all for now......
So off we go to see Dr Matt Brown. Not to my surprise, Caleb has fluid in his left ear. He prescribes him with 5 days of steriods to see if it will go down. We will recheck in three weeks. Dr asked about Caleb's sleeping, if he snores, etc. He said that kids should be nose breathers and not breathe through their mouths. Caleb sleeps on his back but his mouth is usually wide open while he is sleeping. Dr suggested that this could be his adnoids and that they have grown back. (Caleb had them removed when he was a baby but unlike tonsils they DO grow back) If the fluid is still there then he will want to do tubes and scrape out his adnoids again.
Then Dr looks at Christian in my lap and says "He sounds horrible" to which I reply that he always sounds like this. (we go to a different ENT for Christian) He asks me questions about Christian's breathing and if he always has his mouth open. To be honest, I replied that I haven't paid that much attention. (I didn't tell him anything about Christian's history or anything) He again said that this is a symptom, that kids should be nose breathers. He suggested that it is possible that Christian has enlarged adnoids. CRAZY HUH?! Maybe the breathing is something so very simple that we have been looking too deep. Is it possible?
So, next time we go to see Christian's ENT I am going to ask about this. We go back to the ENT in May. We were scheduled for this week, but since Christian still hasn't had his hernia surgery, I rescheduled his appointment to after the surgery. Since Caleb's appointment (an hour ago) I have been paying attention and the only time Christian closes his mouth is when he is sucking his thumb or eathing.
OH! Next week is going to be a busy week. Monday Christian has an orthopedic appointment in Iowa City. I am guessing that they will say everything is good. He is a little weaker on his right leg side but I am not sure if there is anything that can be done. Caleb will be traveling with us and miss school on Monday.
and then Christian's hernia repair surgery is NEXT WEDNESDAY the 21st at Mercy. Right now he is scheduled for outpatient at 9:00. We have to be there at 7:30am. We are praying that everything goes as planned with no complications. After anticipating this surgery for what seems like forever, it is almost here. Let's make it to the day this time. I am sure I will be a bundle of nerves on Wednesday.
that's all for now......
Saturday, March 27, 2010
laundry, sick and appointments
This week has been a rather long week. Charlie has been very busy at work, working late hours and very stressed. Thus leaving me with the kids most nights which is normally fine and I am okay but this week I got sick. I got sick the day Charlie had to work late! What timing. Thankfully the kids behaved well we got through the day. I had the kids play downstairs after dinner so they wouldn't be contaminated by me and my stepmom brought them dinner because I couldn't have imagined trying to cook for them. I might have mustered up some PB&J but was afraid that I would vomit in the food.
Yesterday I was feeling a bit better and the house was an absolute disaster from the day before. Usually not doing laundry for a day is fine but when you don't do it for a couple days with 4 kids it gets a little out of control. My mom and aunt came over and did a load for me so at least Charlie has some clean clothes. I have to get on it today and get caught up or I will be forever behind.
So enough whining!!!! Yesterday I felt a little better but was still weak and not 100% but I did get the dr called to reschedule Christian's surgery. Finally! We connected instead of leaving messages. Christian's hernia repair surgery is scheduled for April 21st at Mercy. We see the pediatrician a week before for his 15 mo check up and do the history and physical the same day. We also have an ENT appointment and go to Iowa City for an ortho appointment all before the surgery. I pray that Christian will stay healthy so that the surgery can be a go this time.
The first few weeks of April will be busy. We have Easter, dr appointments for all of the kids at least once averaging 3 appointments per week for three weeks. Throw in going to St Paul for my cousin's baby shower (she's having twins and we are so excited for her) and we will be hoping! Oh, and my step sister is moving home from Aruba and she is 7 mo preggo too. That's a whole lot of babies that are going to be born this spring! very exciting!
that's all for now....
Yesterday I was feeling a bit better and the house was an absolute disaster from the day before. Usually not doing laundry for a day is fine but when you don't do it for a couple days with 4 kids it gets a little out of control. My mom and aunt came over and did a load for me so at least Charlie has some clean clothes. I have to get on it today and get caught up or I will be forever behind.
So enough whining!!!! Yesterday I felt a little better but was still weak and not 100% but I did get the dr called to reschedule Christian's surgery. Finally! We connected instead of leaving messages. Christian's hernia repair surgery is scheduled for April 21st at Mercy. We see the pediatrician a week before for his 15 mo check up and do the history and physical the same day. We also have an ENT appointment and go to Iowa City for an ortho appointment all before the surgery. I pray that Christian will stay healthy so that the surgery can be a go this time.
The first few weeks of April will be busy. We have Easter, dr appointments for all of the kids at least once averaging 3 appointments per week for three weeks. Throw in going to St Paul for my cousin's baby shower (she's having twins and we are so excited for her) and we will be hoping! Oh, and my step sister is moving home from Aruba and she is 7 mo preggo too. That's a whole lot of babies that are going to be born this spring! very exciting!
that's all for now....
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
New Pictures
Maria reading a book to Christian.
The boys were playing with buckets before bedtime. It was very funny to watch them being silly.
Christian in his walker. He was trying to get through but I was standing in his way. :)
The older boys room. Caleb's bed on the left. Colton's on the right. We got new curtains and rearranged a bit. It was safe to take a picture. 
Our new bed! We have been talking about getting a new bed for over five years. We finally did it! With the new bed, of course, I had to get new bedding and I got curtains too. Saturday, February 27, 2010
Thursday was a long day
Well, it has definately been a long week. Last Friday we saw Christian's primary dr who went over everything that is Christian. He okayed Christian's surgery for Friday the 26th. Now come to Wednesday night. Christian is running a slight fever. Nothing that I am too concerned with but I kept him home from church with Daddy to be safe. Thursday morning, the fever is still there. Never over 100.1 but nevertheless still there. I was contemplating calling the dr but put it off hoping his fever would break. We, being the kids and I, went to the science center so the kids could have something to do. Christian stayed in his stroller and was a gem. He didn't complain at all. At 2:00 I checked his temp and it was still there so I began the calls to the dr.
The surgeon said that as long as his temp doesn't go above 100.5 then he could still do surgery. "Okay" I thought "It will be alright, no worries." But, he wanted us to go see our pediatrician to have him checked out. So I get an appointment at 3:15. We were just 5 mins away since we were already downtown so that was nice.
Once we got into the doctor we began a 2 1/2 appointment seeing a doctor that has NEVER seen Christian before because the doctor and NP we normally see were not there. Having four children in a little exam room was really trying on my patience. We did thumb wars, reading time, rock paper scissors, and they were still bored. Good thing I had 3 cookies in the diaper bag for the older kids and fishies for Christian to bribe them with.
Christian's ears were both bulging and red and the doctor was concerned with his breathing. We did an RSV test. Negative. "Thank God" Then the doctor wants to do a breathing treatment to see if it will help. They test his pulse ox, 94 is the result. Optimal is 100. This is his oxygen level. Another breathing treatment with another drug. Same result for the pulse ox test after both breathing treatments. I kept trying to tell the doctor that Christian always sounds "weezy" and his is a "noisy breather" but he didn't seem to care. He wanted to fix his breathing. Granted Christian was weezing a little more than normal, but his "normal" is different. On a good day people think he has a cold.
For the ear infections, the dr wants to do shots of rocefin. This is because they are so red and bulgy and the antibiotic would work quicker. With these shots you have to come back 3 days in a row to get the full dose. I reluctantly agree. In my head I was thinking that I remembered Tamara, the NP who is one of my favs, suggest this last time but we were trying to be optomistic. So we did the shot. This is a shot in both legs for three days. Painful for Christian but supposed to help. The surgery is cancelled! The doctor (pediatrician) said Christian isn't well enough.
So, no change in the breathing, the doctor thinks I will do nebulizer treatments at home, which why the heck would I? They don't do any good! And they haven't ever done any good for Christian. It seems to be something the dr's want to do to make themselves feel better. I really feel that his noisy breathing is part of his spina bifida; Arnold Chiari. But, could I get any of the dr's to tell me that. If anyone has any suggestions on this please let me know.
We left the doctor's office at 5:40pm. This is the time that I was supposed to be at school for Caleb's conferences. Then another at 6 and the last at 6:30. It didn't turn out the way we wanted but we got it done. We got to the school at 6:00. Colton ran in to meet Daddy for his conference while I stayed in the car with Caleb and Christian. Then at 6:30 Colton and Daddy came out and Maria and I went in for her conference.
It all worked out in the end. We got the kids conferences done, Christian got medicine to help him feel better and we had dinner at 8:00 pm. 30 mins after bed time. Now for the anticipation of when the surgery will be rescheduled for.
that's all for now.....
The surgeon said that as long as his temp doesn't go above 100.5 then he could still do surgery. "Okay" I thought "It will be alright, no worries." But, he wanted us to go see our pediatrician to have him checked out. So I get an appointment at 3:15. We were just 5 mins away since we were already downtown so that was nice.
Once we got into the doctor we began a 2 1/2 appointment seeing a doctor that has NEVER seen Christian before because the doctor and NP we normally see were not there. Having four children in a little exam room was really trying on my patience. We did thumb wars, reading time, rock paper scissors, and they were still bored. Good thing I had 3 cookies in the diaper bag for the older kids and fishies for Christian to bribe them with.
Christian's ears were both bulging and red and the doctor was concerned with his breathing. We did an RSV test. Negative. "Thank God" Then the doctor wants to do a breathing treatment to see if it will help. They test his pulse ox, 94 is the result. Optimal is 100. This is his oxygen level. Another breathing treatment with another drug. Same result for the pulse ox test after both breathing treatments. I kept trying to tell the doctor that Christian always sounds "weezy" and his is a "noisy breather" but he didn't seem to care. He wanted to fix his breathing. Granted Christian was weezing a little more than normal, but his "normal" is different. On a good day people think he has a cold.
For the ear infections, the dr wants to do shots of rocefin. This is because they are so red and bulgy and the antibiotic would work quicker. With these shots you have to come back 3 days in a row to get the full dose. I reluctantly agree. In my head I was thinking that I remembered Tamara, the NP who is one of my favs, suggest this last time but we were trying to be optomistic. So we did the shot. This is a shot in both legs for three days. Painful for Christian but supposed to help. The surgery is cancelled! The doctor (pediatrician) said Christian isn't well enough.
So, no change in the breathing, the doctor thinks I will do nebulizer treatments at home, which why the heck would I? They don't do any good! And they haven't ever done any good for Christian. It seems to be something the dr's want to do to make themselves feel better. I really feel that his noisy breathing is part of his spina bifida; Arnold Chiari. But, could I get any of the dr's to tell me that. If anyone has any suggestions on this please let me know.
We left the doctor's office at 5:40pm. This is the time that I was supposed to be at school for Caleb's conferences. Then another at 6 and the last at 6:30. It didn't turn out the way we wanted but we got it done. We got to the school at 6:00. Colton ran in to meet Daddy for his conference while I stayed in the car with Caleb and Christian. Then at 6:30 Colton and Daddy came out and Maria and I went in for her conference.
It all worked out in the end. We got the kids conferences done, Christian got medicine to help him feel better and we had dinner at 8:00 pm. 30 mins after bed time. Now for the anticipation of when the surgery will be rescheduled for.
that's all for now.....
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Christian's ENT appointment
Christian, Caleb and I all went to the ENT this morning for Christian's follow up for his ears and noisy breathing. Christian has had a constant runny nose and cough. The right ear looks great and passed all of the tests. The left ear is a little unsure. The doctor did the pressure test, a hearing test and one other. Again, the right ear passed all and looks great. Christian's left ear is just iffy. The doctor said that we have two options. We can put tubes in and see if that will take away the fluid and build up or we can wait it out and see if it may get better on it's own. I asked what the risks are and if Christian could lose hearing in his left ear from waiting. The doctor said that while it may be hard for Christian to hear right now because of the fluid, that when the fluid goes down then he should be able to hear better.
I told the dr that Christian is already having surgery next week and he said that we should wait then and not put him through another surgery so soon. He did give me some information to tell the anesthesiologist on the granulation that was on his vocal cords a few months back so that the anesthesiologist can check that when he is intubating him. He even drew a picture!
So....we are still playing the wait and see game. Our next appointment is in April - hopefully it will be warmer out!
that's all for now....
I told the dr that Christian is already having surgery next week and he said that we should wait then and not put him through another surgery so soon. He did give me some information to tell the anesthesiologist on the granulation that was on his vocal cords a few months back so that the anesthesiologist can check that when he is intubating him. He even drew a picture!
So....we are still playing the wait and see game. Our next appointment is in April - hopefully it will be warmer out!
that's all for now....
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
hmm...
Christian's surgery is next Friday. I know exactly what the dr is doing, but I am nervous. We have lived with the hernia's for a year now and I know we need to get rid of them. I will keep praying that the surgery goes well.
Christian has been a little off lately so I don't know. Last night he just started screaming and wouldn't stop. Finally I said "If you are going to scream at me, you can go in your bed" Well that must have been what he wanted because he fell right asleep. It was as if he was trying to tell me he was tired but I was too busy making dinner to listen. And, oh my! This kid has horrible stinkies! He is worse than his dad. So if you are around him, beware that you might need some air freshener! :)
It seems like one week we have nothing going on and the next we have appointments every day. Everything and everyone blow up all at once! It is crazy!
Colton was officially suspended from school for 1/2 day, Caleb was kicked out of AWANA for a week, and ....... It's NUTS, it's their behavior! Maria has started hiding food and candy under her bed. I almost wonder if she has been doing it for awhile and I never noticed since we weren't cleaning under the beds. I really hope I can stay sane and continue to try to do the chart for responsibilities and stay consistent. I know that if I stay consistent then the boys won't (hopefully) continue with their disrespect and misbehavior.
What I don't understand though, is WHY they think it is okay now? I don't have outbursts all the time, or do I? Well, this is what we are working on. The kids have to earn everything.; play time, computer time, late bedtime, movie time, etc. We are in WEEK TWO of this and I really think it will work.
I want to get new bedding for my bed. I also would like to get curtains for the kids room. I asked the kids yesterday if they think they could handle it and they said yes. Now, I just have to figure out what kind of fabric would look good in their rooms. For the boys I can do all boy and for Maria and Christian's room I am going to need something gender nuteral. I am hoping that maybe we can make curtains for the kids room. I am not sure if I can make them, since my machine has been in the closet for almost five years, so hopefully my step mommy will help me. I guess I need to ask! Hoping that would cut the cost down. I have been looking on EBay for bedding for us, but cannot decide on any one. First I have to get Charlie to help paint my now purple room to a more....hmm.....beige color.....
that's all for now.....
Christian has been a little off lately so I don't know. Last night he just started screaming and wouldn't stop. Finally I said "If you are going to scream at me, you can go in your bed" Well that must have been what he wanted because he fell right asleep. It was as if he was trying to tell me he was tired but I was too busy making dinner to listen. And, oh my! This kid has horrible stinkies! He is worse than his dad. So if you are around him, beware that you might need some air freshener! :)
It seems like one week we have nothing going on and the next we have appointments every day. Everything and everyone blow up all at once! It is crazy!
Colton was officially suspended from school for 1/2 day, Caleb was kicked out of AWANA for a week, and ....... It's NUTS, it's their behavior! Maria has started hiding food and candy under her bed. I almost wonder if she has been doing it for awhile and I never noticed since we weren't cleaning under the beds. I really hope I can stay sane and continue to try to do the chart for responsibilities and stay consistent. I know that if I stay consistent then the boys won't (hopefully) continue with their disrespect and misbehavior.
What I don't understand though, is WHY they think it is okay now? I don't have outbursts all the time, or do I? Well, this is what we are working on. The kids have to earn everything.; play time, computer time, late bedtime, movie time, etc. We are in WEEK TWO of this and I really think it will work.
I want to get new bedding for my bed. I also would like to get curtains for the kids room. I asked the kids yesterday if they think they could handle it and they said yes. Now, I just have to figure out what kind of fabric would look good in their rooms. For the boys I can do all boy and for Maria and Christian's room I am going to need something gender nuteral. I am hoping that maybe we can make curtains for the kids room. I am not sure if I can make them, since my machine has been in the closet for almost five years, so hopefully my step mommy will help me. I guess I need to ask! Hoping that would cut the cost down. I have been looking on EBay for bedding for us, but cannot decide on any one. First I have to get Charlie to help paint my now purple room to a more....hmm.....beige color.....
that's all for now.....
Friday, February 5, 2010
Christian's surgery is scheduled
Christian is scheduled to have a bilateral inuinal and umbilical hernia repair surgery on February 26th. His surgery is scheduled for 7:30 am and we have to be at the hospital by 6:00. Luckily we are having the surgery at Mercy so we are not driving all of the way to Iowa City.
The surgery is supposed to be a same day surgery barring any complications.
The kids do not have school this day so they will be home with someone.
Please pray for no complications and fast recovery. Thanks!
The surgery is supposed to be a same day surgery barring any complications.
The kids do not have school this day so they will be home with someone.
Please pray for no complications and fast recovery. Thanks!
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Pinewood Derby Races
Colton was in his first pinewood derby race yesterday. The race was with his Cub Scouts group pack 103. He had lots of fun! His team had 9 boys from his den. He won First in the race with "Skinny Mini" and Second place in design. We were very proud of him.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Urology, 12 month check up and a walker
It has been a long eventful month. Christmas was good. We celebrated with all of our family and the kids got lots of new toys and some clothes.
christian is doing very good!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Okay, well, Colton wrote that while I was busy doing something else. The kids had a two-hour delay for school today because of the ice still.
First off with Christian; he had an endoscopy something or other done. They looked at his insides of his esophagus, small intestines and his stomach. Everything came back okay so that was good. I am really sick of trying to figure out why he breath's so loudly. Right now I am just chalking it up to Arnold Chiari. Maybe one of the many dr's will eventually tell us, right? I haven't heard anything else from the GI dr. I have noticed more lately that Christian does seem to cough or choke on more foods. He has been having more and more 'adult' food so I am guessing that is why. We do have a few jars of baby food left for when we have something that he cannot have. But, he has been doing great with his one tooth and getting things mashed up to swallow. I do think that the solids are still harder for him because of the esophageal reflux but he manages it well by taking drinks after almost every bite and sucking his thumb too.
We went to see the urologist the beginning of the year. Christian had a urodynamic study and a kidney ultrasound. Christian's kidney's look fine and his bladder actually seems to look better. The dr said that this is hopefully from the ditropan. During the urodynamic study Christian didn't empty as well as before but when he sat up it was leaking. Since he has lots of wet diapers at home and kidney's look good the dr didn't seem to concerned. So all great news from urology. He just upped the dosage a little since Christian has gotten bigger. Still no cathing since the kidney's look okay.
We had Christian's 12 month check up. He was 21 lbs 14 oz and height was 28 1/4 inches. He is in the 10th percentile for height and the 25th percentile for weight. His head circumference is good at 47 cm. He got shots and handled them like a trooper. His next check up is at 15 months.
This week for physical therapy, Lisa brought Christian a walker. This will help Christian to be mobile without us having to hold his hands everywhere. It also helps him strengthen his legs and work on his gait control. He loves it and gets all over the kitchen and living room. Last night while I was making dinner it was real neat; he stood next to me holding my hand while I made dinner. The kids think the walker is neat and try to play games with Christian to get him moving.
I guess that is all for now as I just lost my train of thought.....
christian is doing very good!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Okay, well, Colton wrote that while I was busy doing something else. The kids had a two-hour delay for school today because of the ice still.
First off with Christian; he had an endoscopy something or other done. They looked at his insides of his esophagus, small intestines and his stomach. Everything came back okay so that was good. I am really sick of trying to figure out why he breath's so loudly. Right now I am just chalking it up to Arnold Chiari. Maybe one of the many dr's will eventually tell us, right? I haven't heard anything else from the GI dr. I have noticed more lately that Christian does seem to cough or choke on more foods. He has been having more and more 'adult' food so I am guessing that is why. We do have a few jars of baby food left for when we have something that he cannot have. But, he has been doing great with his one tooth and getting things mashed up to swallow. I do think that the solids are still harder for him because of the esophageal reflux but he manages it well by taking drinks after almost every bite and sucking his thumb too.
We went to see the urologist the beginning of the year. Christian had a urodynamic study and a kidney ultrasound. Christian's kidney's look fine and his bladder actually seems to look better. The dr said that this is hopefully from the ditropan. During the urodynamic study Christian didn't empty as well as before but when he sat up it was leaking. Since he has lots of wet diapers at home and kidney's look good the dr didn't seem to concerned. So all great news from urology. He just upped the dosage a little since Christian has gotten bigger. Still no cathing since the kidney's look okay.
We had Christian's 12 month check up. He was 21 lbs 14 oz and height was 28 1/4 inches. He is in the 10th percentile for height and the 25th percentile for weight. His head circumference is good at 47 cm. He got shots and handled them like a trooper. His next check up is at 15 months.
This week for physical therapy, Lisa brought Christian a walker. This will help Christian to be mobile without us having to hold his hands everywhere. It also helps him strengthen his legs and work on his gait control. He loves it and gets all over the kitchen and living room. Last night while I was making dinner it was real neat; he stood next to me holding my hand while I made dinner. The kids think the walker is neat and try to play games with Christian to get him moving.
I guess that is all for now as I just lost my train of thought.....
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