tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85224893387400886712024-03-13T12:12:05.253-07:00Carter & 1p36 Deletion SyndromeCarter's trials and life with 1p36 deletion syndrome.Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.comBlogger114125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-74083669350744632442017-02-08T16:40:00.003-08:002017-02-08T16:55:01.576-08:00Cabin Fever<span style="color: #274e13;">It's been a few months since I've blogged so let's get to it! Carter had his yearly vision appointment and boy, was that an adventure (we'll stick with that word instead of nightmare). Taking all three kids with me was quite an undertaking. Needless to say, I was pretty shaken up that by the time the doctor came in I told him we wouldn't come every year if his vision was good. I can't handle all these appointments even if they are just yearly! I may have scared the doctor but hey, he wrote in the note to come back in 1-2 years because his vision was good. We haven't liked Carter's new wheelchair quite as much as we did at first, its lightweight causes it to rock easily and it has actually tipped over several times. We made some adjustments and hope that it will help. During the Christmas season we did the typical things such as seeing the lights and attending family parties. My side of the family even attempted to take a surprise picture of all 13 grandchildren (ages 7 and under) for my parents. Oy. Chris and I had a nice date night to see Celtic Women at Abravanel Hall, it was great. We all got a stomach bug right before Christmas (except Keaton) so by the time it came we were pretty worn out. Christmas was quiet at home, we didn't go anywhere. We were very blessed this year because my best friend nominated us for sub 4 santa and through United Angels Foundation in Orem and a private sponsor, we received more than we needed!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #274e13;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Shl_YJJfuA8/WJuvSwKJ4xI/AAAAAAAAA7M/2z1673MLhfYwFbkAi1ShLw3HTwN5VedjQCLcB/s1600/20161225_074545_resized_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Shl_YJJfuA8/WJuvSwKJ4xI/AAAAAAAAA7M/2z1673MLhfYwFbkAi1ShLw3HTwN5VedjQCLcB/s200/20161225_074545_resized_1.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13;">Keaton had his 6 month autism follow up a few days after Christmas. We went over my frustrations with his sleep and his behaviors. His doctor will be moving this summer so we'll have to see someone else which is too bad. She's been great at keeping in contact with me and answering my emails. We did start Keaton on a little medicine at night to help him sleep. I'm not sure what exactly was going on with him, but there were weeks where he was up before 5, one time at 3:15! And he wasn't always taking his nap either. He has since given up naps altogether which has made going to bed so much easier! He now sleeps soundly and solid but now the days just drag. We are going to increase his therapy hours though now that he's not napping, so we'll see how he handles it. Keaton has been doing really well with therapy, cooperative and learning new things. Since his words come and go it's hard to say how many words he does know, but the ones he uses on a regular basis are 'ball', 'bobba (bottle)' and 'yes'. He has said 'Momma' several times which is super sweet! And he said 'what' the other day several times. Now that his sleep seems to be good, I can breathe a sigh of relief. His behaviors are still busy or even naughty when he's bored or not being entertained. He makes plenty of messes and some days I just want to cry because it seems so much. But he sure has the sweetest and most happy smile! He loves to wrestle and jump on us and dance; he loves mirrors and his routines.</span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13;">Christmas break was a little rough with all the kids home and bored and there was nowhere to go because of the effort and weather. Then Keaton got croup and shortly after an ear infection; the ear drops weren't enough so after about a week we had to add an oral antibiotic so the poor kid had to deal with medicine for over 2 weeks for one infection! Carter seemed to go from cold to cold to cold/cough, poor guy. We missed another date from the Young Women because of all the sickness, that's 3 in a row! This winter has been a bit rough with all the snow especially where we live on a busier road. And it seems like right when I feel somewhat caught up, the kids don't have school or someone is sick. Both cars also needed a lot done- Chris's car needed snow tires (terrible in snow), new wipers, an oil change and registration. The van needed new tires (we drive so much) and two handles because they broke off. Unexpected expenses around Christmastime are never fun.</span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13;">We got new carpet in our TV room which was so needed! The carpet that was there when we moved in was light so it showed foot traffic and pretty much everything. With the New Year came 9:00 church, the return of great shows, politics (blah), and goals. Some of my goals have been to enjoy life more and not to just endure or survive. I'm not exactly sure how to break that goal down, but one of my priorities was to find the right medicine for my anxiety. I found a great doctor and I'm on my second new medicine and so far (fingers crossed) it seems to be working. I've also started to be more organized with a new detailed planner and with it, I'm writing notes of things to be thankful for. With this I've been able to notice more of the things we have received. In January alone we were given two meals, someone shoveled our huge driveway multiple times, a friend dropped off a treat, a relative gave an unexpected gift of $. </span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13;">Sierra is still enjoying preschool and dance- we were able to see her costume for her recital and it's so cute! We applied to 2 schools for Kindergarten so we'll see what happens. She's still seeing her speech therapist at school and IHC in Bountiful and doing so good. Her teacher met with me briefly to have a mini parent/teacher conference and said how well she's doing. Her main concern is one of mine, that she doesn't know how to respond to certain social situations. She avoids conflict by not talking and doesn't stand up for herself. At home though she can be feisty and is definitely outspoken. I'm still a little concerned with her level of activity- she's always so busy and wound up. We're always trying to limit screen time and keep her busy but we can't always entertain her! It can be frustrating for both of us. Hopefully with warmer weather she can play outside, take swim lessons again and maybe soccer. She's still so helpful around home and affectionate, always learning new things and being silly.</span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13;">The new Seaquest Interactive Museum opened up in Layton Hills Mall, so we went and had a lot of fun! We ended up getting a membership and I've done the fish pedicure twice now lol! The kids have ridden the train as well at the mall and love walking around and eating pretzels. We also stopped at Scheels to ride the Ferris Wheel. It was kind of scary because Keaton got so mad whenever it stopped to let people on or off so we had to get him off, I was worried he'd squirm right out of the seat! End of January I turned 31 and was blessed with a lot of birthday wishes, gifts, friend get-togethers and celebrations. We saw Vocal Point with Chris's family, that was fun. </span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13;">We were able to get a discounted Blendtec for Carter through their medical assistance program. It gives me peace of mind in case something happens and we're out of formula for him, that we can mix something up for him. I also plan to use it for Keaton to get him to try new things and variations. I got a quarterly update on Carter's school goals and he seems to be progressing well in most of them. He's getting super heavy and carrying him is getting pretty hard. Even with all his colds he's still been a sweetheart. He loves music and his toys and hugging. Since his autism diagnosis we're trying to get therapy started through the place Keaton goes to. He has an appointment in a few weeks and a mountain of questions to go through. I'm not sure if he'll respond favorably but hopefully it can help in some way. Carter has some behavioral issues like slapping his leg in frustration and doing it too hard causes him to cry but he doesn't seem to understand what he's doing. He also gnaws on his wrist but not enough to break the skin, and plays with himself on occasion. In the spring if we're still living up north, I want to re-start horse therapy and maybe find some summer activities for him to do.</span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13;">Taxes were just done today hooray! I'm hoping that the weather continues to get warmer so we can get the kids outside. I plan on enjoying my time when/if I get it before spring break and summer comes. Being a Mom is so tough! Sometimes it seems fine than others so unexpected and busy. I know this season is a tough one with little kids, especially with 2 special needs kiddos. I hope that with my new medicine and goals that I can make this a better year. There were some pretty dark times last year. We're also looking at possibly maybe moving so we can be closer to family. We've lived up north for over 1 1/2 years and we drive so much and I feel so isolated. Always doing things for your kids all day long, watching what they want and going to the bathroom and eating only because you were lucky enough to get a second wears on you. There's so much you're in charge of and responsible for, not to mention cleaning a house! We'll see what life brings us, I feel like I never know. And for someone who's a planner and OCD, it makes me uncomfortable. I hope the sicknesses and snow stay away so better times are ahead. </span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13;">What's Coming Up: Carter's ABA therapy assessment, Valentine's Day, 8th wedding anniversary and Backstreet Boys concert in Vegas</span>Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-89178318383719052692016-12-14T09:45:00.000-08:002016-12-16T19:23:36.361-08:00Holidays and kids<span style="color: #0b5394;">Sierra saw ENT and they were able to see that her tonsills are enlarged but not too much to require surgery. The doctor suggested a sleep study to determine if that is the reason for her hyperactivity or if she would need surgery to help with sleep. It was scheduled a few weeks after our appointment and she did so good! The whole time they were hooking her up to everything she stayed so still. She slept really well, only woke up once to use the bathroom and then freaked a little when she saw herself in the mirror. We don't have the results yet so we'll see what we do from there. She has still been taking dance weekly and loving it, and seeing her speech therapist at school and the Bountiful Rehab clinic. She has been so awesome sharing a room with Keaton, they seem to play more together. She has been so helpful and attentive to her brothers which is such a blessing. With the holidays here, she has been so excited! She's done a few Daddy-daughter dates; they saw "Trolls" and then had dinner at Famous Dave's one evening.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Keaton has been doing great with ABA therapy, he can now say: cracker, ball, bobba for bottle, of course momma and dadda, the k sound for his own name, book and probably others I just can't remember. He nods and says yes to every question, once in awhile he'll say no and shake his finger lol. He will try to sound out the beginning of a word if he doesn't know it. He was having therapy 3 times a week but the schedule got a little mixed up and it changed to 4 times a week so we had to quit our play2learn class early. We also missed one week because the weather was terrible, so in all we missed 3 weeks. It was every Monday at The Children's Center in Salt Lake and was so informative on connecting with autistic children. <b>Week 7 </b>we had an OT come and talk to us about sensory processing difficulties/disorder and the different senses/systems: tactile (touch), vestibular (part of the inner ear and brain that processes sensory input from eye movement and balance), proprioceptive (movement), vision and hearing. She gave us sensory activities and ideas as well as good toys or objects and books to buy. She gave us web resources and handouts. Each system/sense can be either hypersensitive or hypo sensitive. Too high is hypersensitive and too low is hypo sensitive. It was an open discussion so the parents were able to ask questions and bring up examples.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Keaton was just approved for SSI (social security income) for having severe autism (level 3). I had applied back in June so it was a long time coming. We are also working on adding Keaton to our handicapped parking permit because he likes to bolt and wander wherever we go. It's been hard with Keaton because not only is he 2 which is pretty tough, but he has these delays and sensitivities and trouble communicating. If I don't stay right on top of him to keep track of what he's doing or needs, he can often get frustrated and have meltdowns, throw things, make messes etc. I try my best but reality is, I'm a busy stay-at-home Mom and there are times he just needs to entertain himself or figure things out. Just the other day I figured out he's been taking his bottle and spraying the remaining milk just randomly throughout the house. I find dried spots on the kitchen floor, carpet, couches, bedding. It's just one of the many frustrating activities he likes to do. Besides flipping light switches on and off he likes to shut doors but then can't open them. Church has been extremely difficult because not only is it during nap time but he has wide open spaces to run around in. </span><span style="color: #0b5394;">He has been waking up at 5:-5:30 for weeks now and it's been rough. </span><span style="color: #0b5394;">One super cute thing though is that he's been singing lately, really loud. He loves watching music videos and that's one way to calm and also entertain him. He also loves chocolate, sometimes he closes his eyes in such rapture lol. </span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Carter's developmental pediatrician did add autism to Carter's diagnoses after discussing it with her team. I have the prescription for ABA therapy, but with school I think I'll hold off until the summer or even spring break. I don't know if he'll respond to it but it's worth a try. Although Carter's main diagnosis shares a lot of commonalities and probably overall trumps the autism diagnosis, we still felt it was appropriate. Usually Medicaid requires the IDOS testing for the diagnosis, but because Carter isn't walking on his own they weren't able to give it. The pediatrician had to speak with someone at Medicaid to pass it through, so we could make sure the ABA would be covered. Silly hoops they have to go through sometimes. I don't have the perfect information, but when looking at an autism diagnosis they look for the following 7 areas. They look for defects in <i>social/emotional</i>; they have to get 2 out of the 3 requirements but because of Carter's cognitive impairment, it was hard to know exactly. Most kids are at least at a one year level for this area. The next are defects in <i>non verbal communication</i> such as eye contact, gestures etc. Carter actually has great eye contact unless he's immersed in a toy.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Another area is <i>maintaining relationships</i>, another is <i>repetitive behaviors</i> and you have to get 2 out of the 4 requirements (ie: hand flapping). The other three areas are <i>sensory, abnormal/focused attentions and flexibility in routines. </i>This doctor has been so awesome in working with us and getting things figured out. Carter has been so touchy and cuddly lately, he actually lit up one day when I came home from an appointment. It was very sweet to see that he actually cared that I had been gone and wanted to see me. He sure is a sweet sweet boy. At school and home he has been taking several steps all by himself. I don't have it on video yet and he looks a little like Frankenstein, but how proud I am! I tried signing up for skiing lessons with Wasatch Adaptive, we tried a few years ago too, but I don't know if it's going to happen. We also just signed up for Mascot Miracle Foundation because they seem to have fun activities.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">We had Thanksgiving at my sister's new beautiful home in Bluffdale this year instead of my parents'. We were all there except one sister and her family. We had a good time playing games including pie face, watching the Cowboys game and of course eating. The food was delicious and the kids had so much fun together! I got the boys new sweaters and Sierra a cute outfit. We took corn, sweet potato souffle and a pecan pie (Village Inn).</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_iGVGdrryCU/WFF9ztByF7I/AAAAAAAAA44/-jiz0IkRSMcT-Es9crlqjEa32pzw87XswCLcB/s1600/15192545_10209209789416703_1530961329617475612_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_iGVGdrryCU/WFF9ztByF7I/AAAAAAAAA44/-jiz0IkRSMcT-Es9crlqjEa32pzw87XswCLcB/s200/15192545_10209209789416703_1530961329617475612_n.jpg" width="112" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5AebBbC2PGs/WFF9t9LoYmI/AAAAAAAAA40/vvTgZYPibWwvOsmCkc3GWfZt08HLocAtQCLcB/s1600/15232088_10154812864051108_5789718511207336312_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5AebBbC2PGs/WFF9t9LoYmI/AAAAAAAAA40/vvTgZYPibWwvOsmCkc3GWfZt08HLocAtQCLcB/s200/15232088_10154812864051108_5789718511207336312_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;">The very next week the kids had pictures taken with Santa. It was part of our Christmas from my parents'. It was a terrible storm that day, it took us 2 hours to drive to the lady's house but, in the end, it was totally worth it.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tsfdi3-Hr3A/WFGAVTdcC5I/AAAAAAAAA5E/VLKYzetafosyJsS1gJ2pHKVHl2ViY_CGgCLcB/s1600/CCI12012016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tsfdi3-Hr3A/WFGAVTdcC5I/AAAAAAAAA5E/VLKYzetafosyJsS1gJ2pHKVHl2ViY_CGgCLcB/s200/CCI12012016.jpg" width="153" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;">With the Christmas season here, we had so much fun putting up the decor, lights on the house and the tree. This year we started the Elf on the Shelf which has been fun, even if not that creative. Sierra is the perfect age to enjoy everything about Christmas. We also usually have an Advent calendar with a little chocolate for each day counting up to Christmas. I also tried little candy canes in a countdown calendar but Keaton attacked that as well as the tree. We were able to go with Chris's family (without kids) to see The Forgotten Carols for its 25th anniversary. It was a very touching night even though I've seen it a few times before. They did the mannequin challenge at the end which was fun. Chris's mom had never seen it, so it was nice to help put it together. We also celebrated Carter's 7th birthday last week! He wore a birthday shirt to school instead of decorating his wheelchair. He got one toy from us because they are so hard to find new ones for him and Grandma Thorup came and spent the day/night with us to spend time with the kids.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ma-h377GpNE/WFGBEyPBcFI/AAAAAAAAA5I/sIFSZhvazysyuiNvAlme4j_q1TlM_r6JQCLcB/s1600/20161209_193753.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ma-h377GpNE/WFGBEyPBcFI/AAAAAAAAA5I/sIFSZhvazysyuiNvAlme4j_q1TlM_r6JQCLcB/s200/20161209_193753.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;">The next day Carter had his 7 year doctor check-up- he is very healthy and now 60 lbs. Yikes! We also had The Forgotten Carols so we stayed at my parents' house since they were watching the kids. Saturday afternoon we had Carter's ice skating party at Cottonwood's Park & Recreation Center. We had a great turnout and so much fun! It's also the first time I think Carter paid attention at his party and smiled when we sang to him.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-emw-w3kAnKo/WFGB_TwFtYI/AAAAAAAAA5g/nP-IFsjCdMI9gpoak-j6c7bStQEw1nmsACLcB/s1600/15356534_1117806248273295_3004729203857816623_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-emw-w3kAnKo/WFGB_TwFtYI/AAAAAAAAA5g/nP-IFsjCdMI9gpoak-j6c7bStQEw1nmsACLcB/s200/15356534_1117806248273295_3004729203857816623_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MjZAEOouKiY/WFGB51he_1I/AAAAAAAAA5Y/B2B_11yVxToY9CvsYLKeNGLJs2sCaYKeACLcB/s1600/15355819_10209361759935871_3937446256771074540_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MjZAEOouKiY/WFGB51he_1I/AAAAAAAAA5Y/B2B_11yVxToY9CvsYLKeNGLJs2sCaYKeACLcB/s200/15355819_10209361759935871_3937446256771074540_n.jpg" width="112" /></a><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BM6u9LSo0jw/WFGB62dRKAI/AAAAAAAAA5c/X18PkcAuQGkYbzBGJn2mFpBaMNZ4c9-dgCLcB/s1600/15401139_10209359729165103_6110317105912423404_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BM6u9LSo0jw/WFGB62dRKAI/AAAAAAAAA5c/X18PkcAuQGkYbzBGJn2mFpBaMNZ4c9-dgCLcB/s200/15401139_10209359729165103_6110317105912423404_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Life is always moving forward at a fast pace and sometimes we scramble just to keep up. We also sometimes miss events that can make us feel isolated or guilty but we can't always do everything. I missed the Relief Society Christmas dinner, we missed the ward Christmas dinner (had just gotten home from a busy weekend), the Angel Hands Foundation Christmas party and also Chris's work Christmas dinner. I have to remind myself with young kids with so many needs that, it's just part of the path. I'm so thankful for the holiday season to help us reflect and pause on our blessings and the reason for the season. I'm also thankful for my family, friends and the teachers both at school, dance, therapy and church that help teach my children. It really does take a village. Merry Christmas to all and a Happy New Year!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HBEK10v3T30/WFGDH31rWfI/AAAAAAAAA5s/B779Pl74kXoBEDj5mQBnfGWemdMuhK3uACLcB/s1600/e0fcc644014248968ada8d80793fdb2f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HBEK10v3T30/WFGDH31rWfI/AAAAAAAAA5s/B779Pl74kXoBEDj5mQBnfGWemdMuhK3uACLcB/s200/e0fcc644014248968ada8d80793fdb2f.jpg" width="157" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Coming Up: Carters' yearly eye appointment, YW date, Johnson Christmas party, Celtic Women concert, Keaton's autism follow-up and Christmas!!</span>Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-7438245102010002622016-11-09T09:57:00.000-08:002016-11-09T10:45:36.463-08:00New & Old Things Plus Halloween<span style="color: #38761d;">Pretty soon after Carter and I had strep, we found out that Sierra and Keaton got it too. That was a rough week or two because we had to cancel some dates and fun activities. Sierra had her speech assessment at the University of Utah Assessment Clinic by the speech pathologist there that I had met at Keaton's appointment. She was amazing to work with; she conducted her tests and concluded that Sierra does have apraxia although it's mild. What is <b>apraxia? </b>It's a type of speech disorder that is present from birth and can cause trouble making sounds correctly and consistently. Many children with the disorder have a family member with a speech disorder or learning disability. Sierra has been receiving speech through her preschool as well as at the Primary Children's Rehab in Bountiful. With consistency and patience, she'll be just fine. Sierra has been enjoying dance and school, she has been writing her name so good and singing all sorts of songs. She did lose motivation with the online preschool program, so I cancelled that. We moved her into Keaton's room so now they share a room. She was either with Carter or on the couch because she was afraid of Carter waking her up. Keaton and Sierra already get along so well, they seem to have fun being together so much. At her speech assessment, the therapist noted that Sierra's throat opening is smaller and her voice is higher pitched then usual for her age. We are going to see ENT this week to have it checked out and possibly address any sleep issues as well. Sierra can sometimes be bouncy and has a hard time focusing on things, especially during speech appointments, so instead of looking at ADD or ADHD, we're going to address sleep first. I'll update on what happens with that. We've also noticed some anxiety in her which we'll also have to watch. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Carter got his new wheelchair from Shriner's! This wheelchair is a lot lighter and smaller and it's a step up for him to have less support and more independence by learning to push the wheels himself. It kind of rocks a lot and it can't seem to go over large curbs, but it's a nice change. Carter had his yearly IEP meeting at the school and it went well. A lot of his goals seem to stay the same because his progress is so minimal, but he is doing well and enjoying first grade. He qualifies for ESY (extended school year) which is a first, because he seemed to regress with his walking. They are really focusing on self-care, walking farther distances without a walker, just one-hand/arm for support and making choices from pictures for speech. He has adaptive PE as well as OT, educational goals and some behavioral goals. Not surprising because Carter loves to hug people so much. He is growing so fast, he's over 57 lbs now! We've had to put him in the L/XL pull ups now and he wears size 8 pajamas. We ended up cancelling horse therapy for awhile because it was getting to be too much work for me. Carter had his autism assessment appointment at the University of Utah Assessment Center, we met with the developmental pediatrician only. Because Carter isn't ambulatory the psychologist couldn't conduct her testing, and because he's non-verbal the speech pathologist didn't need to do hers either.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Because of our insurance and its requirements for a diagnosis of autism and covering treatment, they had to go about this carefully. It's also hard with a kid like Carter that can't communicate and show us his cognitive level or skills. So I'm waiting to hear back from the doctor on whether an autism diagnosis would be helpful or appropriate. Kids like Carter don't always do well with ABA therapy, so we'll see what they say. 1p36 deletion syndrome already has so many autistic tendencies that explains and also trumps an autism diagnosis, so it may not even matter. At the appointment I was able to meet a worker there who has a 16 year old that sounded a lot like Carter so she wanted to meet us. She was very nice and gave me some good advice. Carter got his school picture back, it's absolutely adorable and on the side of the blog. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dC6j9Dw8_80/WCNTM35l_GI/AAAAAAAAA34/p4-fXjWLxZkK1Vv27_rbErHioW39ZOeHACLcB/s1600/14610998_10208818355031088_2947098038572775101_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dC6j9Dw8_80/WCNTM35l_GI/AAAAAAAAA34/p4-fXjWLxZkK1Vv27_rbErHioW39ZOeHACLcB/s200/14610998_10208818355031088_2947098038572775101_n.jpg" width="112" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #38761d;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">Now onto Keaton, so much going on with him. We put a hold on Early Intervention services (OT, speech, developmental therapist) because it's just more appointments that add stress to my life. I feel like with ABA therapy which is three times a week and the play2learn class which is weekly, that that's enough for now. With ABA therapy, Keaton has been doing so good at pointing to things to indicate what he wants. He's also learned to nod for yes while saying yes, and is using more words. He enjoys group and seems to do well. I have had a hard time at home with him having meltdowns either because I'm busy or he's not able to communicate what he wants. It can be very frustrating for us both but I'm still trying to learn what he needs. He still loves balloons so much and going outside to swing or to go on a walk. It seems the busier he is, the happier he is. He loves playing with Sierra and sometimes going in his room and playing by himself. Play2Learn has been skipped a few times because of the lady running the class being out of town, so we'll be going weekly until mid December. <b>Week 3 </b>(which comprised two weeks) we talked about rabbit hole techniques part 2: theme and variation, helping them do it better and changing the sensory mode as well as the art of waiting. LESS IS MORE. Theme and variation is trying to extend the time of an interaction by presenting new ideas without taking control. We're supposed to be in the passenger seat; we can still use our other tools such as waiting, narrating and parallel play which we learned in previous weeks. I wrote about weeks 1 and 2 in a previous post- I'm writing this all down for me to remember and also if it's helpful for anyone else.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Helping them do it better is offering a different idea, again without taking control. Changing the sensory mode can mean running a toy up and down their leg or singing a song with the game. Sensory modes are very fun and desirable for children so it can help calm them down and interest them. The goal again with these tools is to make it better <b>with you</b> than without. <b>Week 4 </b>(which comprised two weeks again) was about going for circles. Circles of communication is this- you open a circle with your child because you look at him- he closes that circle of communication by responding with a smile or saying something. It is the back and forth process of communication. Opening a circle means initiating an interaction and closing a circle means responding, also described as the 'pink-pong'. Another example: your child opens a circle because he points to something, you close the circle by getting them what they asked for. These encounters are usually brief, so our goal is to keep them going and identify if those circles are being closed or not and who opens more circles. It means BEING WITH, paying attention. Of course life gets busy so I'm not always paying attention, but this has been helpful to notice if I am addressing his needs which also leads to less meltdowns. W</span><span style="color: #38761d;">e also talked about being a good floor-timer. Our behavior strongly affects our child's behavior so we talked about things that can be helpful and problems or mistakes parents often make.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"> </span><b style="color: #38761d;">Week 5 </b><span style="color: #38761d;">we started talking about Greenspan's first 2 developmental levels. This will help us to know where they're at, what therapies would be helpful when and when we can expect Keaton to talk. Level 1 is <i>self-regulation and shared attention</i> which can be deep pressure, rocking, doing things they love. Level 2 is <i>engagement and relation </i>which can be imitating, peek-a-boo, cuddling, swinging etc. We received a handout that showed us how a child can become dis-regulated throughout the day and how to help them. We also went over how there are three types of children: under-regulated which shows the cup has very little in it, also known as Eeyore. These kids need something to stimulate them, get their attention before you can interact with them or teach. The second shows a regulated child- their cup is just right, also known as Winnie the Pooh. This is optimal for teaching and interacting. The third is an over-regulated child, the cup is overflowing. This is a child that needs help calming down before you can interact or teach. The visual handouts really help to understand how children with autism are. We want their cup to be just right but there are things that can set them off and we have to be aware of that and how to help them. One of our next classes we're going to have an OT come and talk to us more about children's sensory and vestibular systems, I look forward to that. Anything that can help me learn to understand Keaton and even Carter more.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">This class has been so informative for me and has given me more patience with Keaton, especially in his harder moments. Keaton had an assessment/testing again with another psychologist because SSI was requiring more information before approving him. It was a couple hours long but she came to the same conclusion as his first testing, that he is autistic. She recommended that I focus more on the floor time techniques than ABA because it will help him more overall. I was pleased to hear that because it's what we've been doing and learning. We applied for a donated ipad for Keaton because he has autism and it could help with learning and speech, I hope we get it. October was busy with not just appointments and therapy, but fun stuff too. We had a few birthday parties and the kids went to a couple of trunk or treats, we went to Carter's school to see him in his parade, we went to the Ogden Dinosaur Museum, my mom had a cousins' Halloween party and then of course trick-or-treating. I felt like the kids wore their costume several times last month. They had a lot of fun and got lots of candy. I was happy to put the Halloween stuff away after all of the activities and focus now on fall and being thankful. We've been going on walks more and to the park, we also went to temple square one Sunday. Now that it's Daylight Savings and it gets dark so early, we may not have as much time to get out and have fun. Chris ended up getting strep as well which was odd because it was weeks after the rest of us got it. My friend joked that we need zinc in our water. I pray this is it for awhile. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VEc6vqxeg_8/WCNcF5xIGfI/AAAAAAAAA4U/uTxQ-iN_q0Eb5wfBldXeHymyVxObotf2ACLcB/s1600/14729213_10208928621467680_6877911555564867299_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VEc6vqxeg_8/WCNcF5xIGfI/AAAAAAAAA4U/uTxQ-iN_q0Eb5wfBldXeHymyVxObotf2ACLcB/s200/14729213_10208928621467680_6877911555564867299_n.jpg" width="112" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fMeHaWdzvgg/WCNcEYYRYUI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/9NKVYWXIg8IgSSBJ_9_pflIKGlRbFlp1QCLcB/s1600/14642208_10208910118005105_2140161723520087404_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fMeHaWdzvgg/WCNcEYYRYUI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/9NKVYWXIg8IgSSBJ_9_pflIKGlRbFlp1QCLcB/s200/14642208_10208910118005105_2140161723520087404_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">In the last month I have been quite overwhelmed and stressed, so I have tried to cut out things and simplify where I can. We did drop the horse therapy for Carter even though I felt bad about that, we dropped Sierra's online preschool program because it was too much for her, I also asked to be taken off my visiting teaching assignments for a bit from my church as well. Chris has one more class to get part of his CNC machining certification from school, and then he's going to stop to be home with us. He is doing this to help me out and also to take time to find a better-paying job. If things work out, he can learn more skills as he goes and he may not need to go back to finish the rest of the program. We'll see. Knowing that each of my kids' have a diagnosis and have and need therapy is quite overwhelming, and isolating. I have learned that I can be really hard on myself and that I expect a lot from myself and others, so I'm trying to be gentler and more realistic with myself. I've also learned if something is harming more than helping me, I have to drop it. I treasure my alone time and am quite selfish with it. Parenting is really hard, especially when your husband also has school and his plate is full and you have children with special needs that require so much extra. I've said it before and I won't hide it when I struggle. I want to be real, so hopefully it can help other Moms out there. I'm trying to enjoy my kids and not worry about all the other stuff so much.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">What's Coming Up: Sierra's ENT appointment, SSI determination and Carter's ASD diagnosis, Thanksgiving, pictures with Santa, and Carter's 7th birthday</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-49381514744165333562016-10-05T20:16:00.002-07:002016-10-06T15:44:10.491-07:00Busy busy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yIq645Jkiwc/V_WxEf68q1I/AAAAAAAAA2Y/2X1WQXzcbz45BVBnWqHoV6WODbZGrWLWQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yIq645Jkiwc/V_WxEf68q1I/AAAAAAAAA2Y/2X1WQXzcbz45BVBnWqHoV6WODbZGrWLWQCLcB/s200/IMG_2205.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pS22JCNClxs/V_WxDNQGsBI/AAAAAAAAA2U/D7b11z0tg7cxhvEE9qAYjELGa1jeWRTqgCLcB/s1600/14440634_10208660363601401_5656212179124612738_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pS22JCNClxs/V_WxDNQGsBI/AAAAAAAAA2U/D7b11z0tg7cxhvEE9qAYjELGa1jeWRTqgCLcB/s200/14440634_10208660363601401_5656212179124612738_n.jpg" width="112" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #783f04;">It hasn't been quite a month since I updated the blog, but it feels like a lot has happened. Let's start with Carter- these adorable pictures of him make me smile! His 1st grade teacher sent me the one on the left from recess at school, and the right is just on a Sunday. I realized I don't take many pictures with Carter, and he is so smiley and happy. Carter seems to be sick almost constantly since school started up. He got strep a few weeks back and got this rash on his back and spots all over his face. The spots came back it seemed after we completed the antibiotic, but the doctor said they look like acne. I'm still not sure what they are, but he's still cute. Right now he has a cold/cough that has been lingering. He has been doing well at school and still doing horse therapy every week. I love seeing him get excited for that. My parents came up to see him ride the horses, and my dad was able to walk with him. While I don't feel like I have a lot of time with Carter, he sure is a sweetheart. He loves going on walks and flaps like crazy when he sees the bus coming to pick him up for school. I feel like he's such a treasure and a blessing. We were signed up to do a run/walk for Shriner's as a family, but that's when Carter had strep so we weren't able to go. I ended up getting strep as well, blah. So when we go on Monday to get Carter's new wheelchair (yay) we'll get his race bag anyway. </span><br />
<span style="color: #783f04;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #783f04;">This month we're going to start having some Young Women leaders and girls come to babysit once a month to help give Chris and I some time out. I hope it will work out well and they will feel comfortable doing service and also will love getting to know the kids, especially Carter. I think it will be a unique opportunity for these teenage girls to serve and also be around a kid with disabilities. There is one kid in Carter's Primary class at church that is just so warm and welcoming to Carter- he lets Carter embrace him and is looking out for him and genuinely happy to see him there. It's rare to see this and it just warms my heart and usually makes my eyes wet. We recently had the Primary program in church, and Carter didn't participate in anyway. I realized that people just don't know what to do and maybe communication is necessary in a lot of situations. While I felt like he was not acknowledged and it did hurt a little, I also realized I probably shouldn't place any blame because they probably weren't intending to wrong or hurt us. While at Sierra's dance class this week, a little girl probably 5 or 6 openly glared at Carter and gave him some pretty disgusted looks. I was shocked at first and even angry; the mom was clearly oblivious. I had to think for a moment, and realize that again, people just aren't used to seeing or being around people or kids like Carter. While it does hurt, I have to realize that they probably just weren't taught. This painting comes to mind as well as a quote I came across on lds.org: </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0.00784314); font-family: "open sans" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #783f04;">“How are the works of God made manifest in these, our handicapped brothers and sisters? Surely they are manifest greatly in the loving care and attention given by parents, other family members, friends, and associates. The handicapped are not on trial. Those of us who live free of such limitations are the ones who are on trial..."-Unknown</span></span><span style="color: #783f04;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #783f04;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JGK1-X6Fdzk/V_WzTYdjGzI/AAAAAAAAA2s/rsU9KPHAU-IFKWA4DnylHVJxYnwLeJIOACLcB/s1600/jesus-with-children-0403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JGK1-X6Fdzk/V_WzTYdjGzI/AAAAAAAAA2s/rsU9KPHAU-IFKWA4DnylHVJxYnwLeJIOACLcB/s1600/jesus-with-children-0403.jpg" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #783f04;">Now on to Sierra- she is doing great in preschool, she loves going! She is also doing great in dance, she looks beautiful and does well when I peek in. She has gone on a few daddy/daughter dates- once to Winger's for lunch and once to see "Secret Life of Pets." It's something I want to continue because it's important for our kids to get one on one attention, especially when our lives are so busy. Sierra has been struggling to do her online preschool program in addition to everything else, so we may have to back out on that. She is constantly singing her ABC's and different songs she is learning at school. Her teacher said she is adorable and so talkative. We have parent/teacher conferences next week, so I'm anxious to hear more. Sierra had pictures on Tuesday, and today she had a field trip to the Sunset City Fire Department. I was able to go with her, it was so fun to see her interact with her classmates and be so excited to have me there with her. I feel like she is such a treasure, so helpful and lively and fun. She loves to help push Carter in his wheelchair to the bus and is always looking out for Keaton and playing with him. She has recently taken up sweeping. Sometimes I pinch myself because she is my pride and joy. It's been hard getting times that work with speech, but this Friday she has an appointment and also finally her appointment at the Developmental Assessment Center with the speech pathologist. She has actually been doing great, so she may be just fine. She had a small line in the Primary program and did great!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #783f04;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SFBPOH01U2M/V_W1awb7caI/AAAAAAAAA24/1sRC0T7PR8EUoBUqVN2GZ80BCfpJo7JqgCLcB/s1600/14495466_10208745542450819_7709792055262512122_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SFBPOH01U2M/V_W1awb7caI/AAAAAAAAA24/1sRC0T7PR8EUoBUqVN2GZ80BCfpJo7JqgCLcB/s200/14495466_10208745542450819_7709792055262512122_n.jpg" width="112" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9CJ9BOEGD9I/V_W1g8FyIkI/AAAAAAAAA3E/FR6J_xNzKfcEyHogt3wYAX_vFHW_bKyAwCLcB/s1600/14502823_10208744140055760_2797057052811133723_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9CJ9BOEGD9I/V_W1g8FyIkI/AAAAAAAAA3E/FR6J_xNzKfcEyHogt3wYAX_vFHW_bKyAwCLcB/s200/14502823_10208744140055760_2797057052811133723_n.jpg" width="112" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #783f04;">A lot of new shows have come back on that I love: Law & Order SVU, Shark Tank, Last Man Standing, Once Upon A Time, Poldark (a new obsession), and the Mindy Project. This month I was able to go to a movie with my mom, breakfast with a neighbor, and dinner with my best friend. It's always nice to get those free times to myself. I went to the Instacare twice in just a few weeks- once because I got really dizzy and it wouldn't stop, so I had to take medicine, and another time for the strep Carter gave me. The hazards of being a mom:( Some things I have to look forward to is a surprise concert for Chris in December, The Forgotten Carols, and then a girls trip to Vegas in March 2017 to see the Backstreet Boys! With the holidays coming things fill up fast. We decorated for fall and Halloween and Sierra has been so excited about trick-or-treating. With school back in full swing and our other activities and appointments, we are getting used to the new schedule again. It takes some time, thinking and maneuvering on my part but so far we haven't forgotten anything...knock on wood. We can't always do everything like play dates, family dinners, parties etc but we try to. I feel tired most the time and I'm hoping one day it will get better. So I found out recently too that one of my best friends from high school moved to the city right next to me (they're small up north) and we were able to go to dinner and catch up which was lovely. I feel like it was a tender mercy, something I needed.</span><br />
<span style="color: #783f04;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #783f04;">Now on to Keaton- a lot to update here. Still waiting to see if he qualifies for SSI, they are requiring more information. Keaton is doing ABA therapy 3 mornings a week- twice at the center with other kids and it's called pals. It's more of a play group with structure and expectations, and we just got to the point where Keaton doesn't cry anymore when I leave (knock on wood). It's 3 hours so it's been giving me some much needed self care time 3 days a week. They go to the park, have snack time and art time and work on goals. He plays a lot with balls and bubbles of course, and they've been taking it easy on him while he gets adjusted. The girl he had on Thursday mornings stays with him on Thursday at pals so he feels more comfortable. The girl he has on Wednesday mornings at the house he's had a lot, so he knows her well. His eye contact has improved so much, along with vocalizations and pointing to things. He still needs some prompting and reinforcement, but he is doing excellent. If you aren't around him everyday, you might not notice the difference. He's also still doing speech every other month, OT/feeding twice a month and the developmental specialist once a month. I feel like the one area he isn't improving on is feeding. He used to do well with fries and goldfish crackers, but recently he's chocked or spit them out. If you have a kid with eating difficulties, you let them eat whatever they will, seriously. He's actually been napping better, I think all of his activities are wearing him out.</span><br />
<span style="color: #783f04;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #783f04;">A few weeks ago we started a class called Play2Learn at the Children's Center in Salt Lake. An old friend that I grew up with told me about it. It's basically a boot camp for Keaton and I on autism and how to engage better. It's based on the DIR Floortime by Stanley Greenspan (deceased) and Serena Wieder. There are lots of videos about it on YouTube and also a book. So, a speech pathologist by trade teaches the class over 10 weeks, instead of the original 10 month program. So it is much more condensed. We meet every Monday from 9-11:30, and Keaton plays with 3 other kids while I learn with the other 3 parents. What does DIR stand for? D is for developmental, I is for individual differences and R is for relationship-based. What is Floortime? It is a specific technique where you follow your child's natural interests, take his lead so to speak, and at the same time lead your child towards a mastery of social, emotional and intellectual capacities. It definitely emphasizes the role of the parents and how they interact with the child. It perfectly complements ABA therapy, because ABA is so technical and necessary, but Floortime is the fun and joy of learning. It seems so simple but yet is so complex. I could write for hours about what I've already learned. Kids with autism are programmed differently than typical kids, and it's trying to look at it from Keaton's eyes and go from there. How to engage with him and get him to interact. Each week they videotape us playing with our child and then they give us that tape to watch, so we know what to work on.</span><br />
<span style="color: #783f04;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #783f04;">As parents, we're learning each week a new concept or tool, as well as watching videos and discussing our experiences from the week and how to help each other. Week 1 we focused on "Being With". The goal was to establish a relationship and build feelings of trust and attachment. Our homework sheet we were to write down how many sessions we did, what we learned, what were Keaton's favorite activities and what was his attention on, and what were his intentions? A lot of kids with autism have <b>comfort zones, </b>and when they are doing these activities they don't really need anyone else. So I learned that week what he liked to do, and did them with him. At first he resisted which was normal, or bounced from one thing to the next, but then he got really excited I was participating with him. ABA is a lot about coaxing him to do specific things, but this is about doing what he wants to do. We did a lot of cuddling, playing with the strings on the blinds, playing with balls, swinging, etc. Then we were to look at his activities; is it a cause/effect activity, is it sensory, it it sequence, or pretend? Keaton has since sought me out more to play, and that was my aha moment for the week. How important it is to just slow down, talk less, don't ask questions, especially don't ask why he's doing what he is doing. Just quietly watch and participate with him. What a joy those moments have been.</span><br />
<span style="color: #783f04;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #783f04;">Week 2 is this week, and we are focusing on the rabbit hole techniques. How to get our child to interact with us. We are supposed to ask ourselves this week- why not? If Keaton wants to play with water, why not? If he wants to repeatedly hit the string on the fan or blinds, why not? For whatever reason, that is something he likes to do. He also loves to play with the water in the sink and turn light switches on and off. While some of these things drive me up the wall, he enjoys them. As I find little moments to spend with him, I am filling his bucket. Have you heard of the love languages? Each adult and child has one, and once we find out what their need is, we can fill their love bucket. As I do that, hopefully the tantrums and mis communications will be less. Even though we aren't actually communicating with words, we are with actions and our connection. It's amazing what I've already learned. I am profoundly grateful I have been able to participate in this class, even if it has added to my stress and anxiety and schedule. I always want the best for my kids, and if you can start younger, all the better. I am also grateful to my neighbor for helping me get the other kids to school on Monday so I can make it to this class by 9. I hope one day I can help someone else out who is struggling to understand their child. I feel like this will also help me understand Carter and even Sierra more. Week 2 also has 3 parts: "being with" from week 1 which is the foundation to this program and so crucial, narrating the activity but not asking questions (up, ooo, crash) and imitating/parallel play, copying what your child is doing.</span><br />
<span style="color: #783f04;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #783f04;">A lot of times as parents we feel the pressure to ask a lot of questions, to need to have a purpose in every activity or second of the day. But that can often lead to frustration for the child and the parent. We have things we have to work on from ABA, from the OT, from the speech therapist, etc and we fill our days with so many things. This is really teaching me how to stop and enjoy and simplify. LESS IS MORE. I found even after school that asking Sierra less questions and instead asking open-ended questions, she doesn't get mad at me and the transition from school to home is much more smooth. So it is with Keaton- asking less questions and either being quiet or just narrating makes our playtime much more enjoyable. The pressure is less on me, and it leaves room for imagination. It's like I'm being taught how to play with my child, and it's amazing. </span><br />
<span style="color: #783f04;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #783f04;">Things haven't been all rosy and peachy though, most my days are constantly busy and overwhelming and I sometimes find myself in tears at the end of the day. A lot of Keaton's behaviors can be immensely frustrating and cause clean up. It feels like I'm not doing enough, or that I'm forgetting something or not measuring up. It's easy to be hard on myself and not to be reasonable. I do have control issues and OCD and anxiety- they are things I'm working on. I'm open about it so people can relate. I have high functioning depression and anxiety, but it doesn't mean I don't hit bottom sometimes. It is easy to feel alone and down, to get upset. I try not to let those feelings get to me. I try to be positive and upbeat, especially for the kids. I have to realize my life is different than I thought it would be, it's not what I expected, and that's okay. I can mourn and grieve and get mad and even cry. I can realize I'm not going to measure up to the physical therapist's expectations, or this person's, or that I'm not going to be able to volunteer at Sierra's school or this and that. That I am just going to barely make it each day, by the skin of my nose. That I might forget to brush one of the kids' teeth at night, that I might not get enough time to read to them, etc. It is hard to get it all in in one day. And it is really hard for people to understand my life, because it's not theirs. That's okay. I have moments that bring me to my knees, that make me weep because it is so hard, or because people are so ignorant or cruel, and it knocks me down a little. I have moments with my kids where I realize I am not enough, and so I pray that God will pick up the pieces and let my kids know how much I love them and that I really am trying so very very hard.</span><br />
<span style="color: #783f04;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #783f04;">I am not perfect, so far from it. I have lists on my phone, my fridge, my computer, my nightstand...things to work on, things to do, things that are missing, important things, things that can wait, etc. I have books waiting to be read, shows waiting to be watched, things in the house that need to get done...but slowly, I am doing what I can. I know most moms experience this, I am no different. I don't try to show off that I am so much busier or important, I'm just trying to get through life with some grace and love to others and especially to my littles. I am trying to work better and not appearing to need pity all the time, to take ownership of my life, my decisions and my circumstances. I have been focusing more on service and others struggles. Thanks for reading, sorry it's so chaotic! If I missed anything, I will update this post if I remember. As always, feel free to comment or ask a question!</span><br />
<span style="color: #783f04;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #783f04;">What's Coming Up: Speech assessment for Sierra on Friday, Carter's new wheelchair on Monday, Carter's school pictures, Halloween!</span><br />
<span style="color: #783f04;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #783f04;"><br /></span>Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-29925123639822757062016-09-08T09:44:00.001-07:002016-09-08T10:05:47.059-07:00Back to School and Fall!<span style="color: #274e13;">We've been trying to soak up the last of summer, even though I'm not too sad to see it go. We've been to the park at Chloe's Sunshine Playground because it's an all abilities one, the kids love it! We've been to the splash park and Carter is still riding his horses. We thought we were about done with our scholarship and with Sierra starting dance, but I guess it will last a little longer. Keaton rode the horse once and loved it! Keaton finished services with his early intervention physical therapist. Angie was great and so sweet but so glad to see the progress. Carter saw GI for his yearly visit, it was so quick! He's doing great, he is in the 70th percentile for height and weight. Labs came back normal, always happy for that. Carter also got his new Batman ankle braces from Shriner's and of course we had to get matching shoes! Chris and my father in law fixed the van from my accident and it was able to pass emissions and inspections, so happy for that! I have my van back! It's amazing how much you can save by going to the junk yard and doing the work yourself. Grateful!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #274e13;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vEjSSMgYgaM/V9GPtx953GI/AAAAAAAAA1g/Zew0JGmidT4F2I-MhAK9yz1gYkcuND11gCLcB/s1600/14054943_10208304107375218_2126642553045801454_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vEjSSMgYgaM/V9GPtx953GI/AAAAAAAAA1g/Zew0JGmidT4F2I-MhAK9yz1gYkcuND11gCLcB/s200/14054943_10208304107375218_2126642553045801454_n.jpg" width="112" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13;">Carter started 1st grade, we are so happy for him! His bus drivers are new but his special education teacher(s) stayed the same. She is awesome so yay for us! He has seemed happy to be back keeping busy and being around friends. I feel like I barely survived the summer with the kids, so it's a relief! The first week was early out, but now he's back to 4 days from 8:27-3:50 and Friday early out. Carter has started something new that I don't like and not sure how to deal with. He has been exploring his diaper area and it's something that I'll have to learn to distract him from. Oy. His wheelchair was approved by insurance even though it's hasn't been quite five years, so it's now being ordered. I think he'll love being able to push himself with the wheels! He has an appointment in November to be assessed for autism, so we'll see what happens with that. He has been waking up some at night for the past while, not sure why. Change in the weather?</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #274e13;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cIuyL6UWgco/V9GPpftj8rI/AAAAAAAAA1c/9NFwC102Ugg118fLNFOyHwz3fTAt_ULaQCLcB/s1600/14051731_10208371996072393_5647276951106863640_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cIuyL6UWgco/V9GPpftj8rI/AAAAAAAAA1c/9NFwC102Ugg118fLNFOyHwz3fTAt_ULaQCLcB/s200/14051731_10208371996072393_5647276951106863640_n.jpg" width="112" /></a></span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #274e13;">Sierra has been going to speech at the Primary Children's Rehab in Bountiful. I love the lady she works with, she is so sweet with her! She seems to be doing well so far, I just need to find time to work with her everyday. We are still waiting on her assessment in Salt Lake to see if she has appraxia. I hope she doesn't. Sierra also starts dance next week, she can't wait! It's a ballet/tap/jazz preschool class for kids age 4. I've been wanting her to dance since she was 3, she will absolutely love it! Sierra started her second year of preschool yesterday; she goes to Sunset Elementary in the Head Start preschool. Several kids from last year are there and her teachers seem so nice. My little girl is growing up! She is almost 80% for height and in the 60% for weight. She is also doing her preschool program online, it seems to motivate her to learn. She will be busy in the coming weeks, that's for sure! She has been such a big helper to me this summer, always looking out for her brothers and playing and being affectionate. She balances me out, I don't know how I'd do this without her.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #274e13;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N0qdigGtNHc/V9GRDbZm4hI/AAAAAAAAA1s/MQEQ-bIL50AmjkW1bRazsF5pCg70iuV9QCLcB/s1600/13901334_10208259215572951_1965160618996074914_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N0qdigGtNHc/V9GRDbZm4hI/AAAAAAAAA1s/MQEQ-bIL50AmjkW1bRazsF5pCg70iuV9QCLcB/s200/13901334_10208259215572951_1965160618996074914_n.jpg" width="112" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YgQ1OqxM4BE/V9GRAoNtdZI/AAAAAAAAA1o/e_Ny6rqwQ-EpZwuswjzirXTBQQS7ygHLQCLcB/s1600/14225632_10208501962401470_4783175389945130167_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YgQ1OqxM4BE/V9GRAoNtdZI/AAAAAAAAA1o/e_Ny6rqwQ-EpZwuswjzirXTBQQS7ygHLQCLcB/s200/14225632_10208501962401470_4783175389945130167_n.jpg" width="112" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #274e13;">In looking for resources which I'm always on the lookout for, we went to the library in Roy on Saturday for sensory hour. It was on dinosaurs and Sierra just loved it! It's funny how I went mostly for Keaton, but she ended up doing better. It's something I want to continue to do. I found a great class for kids with autism through an old friend. Keaton will be starting on the 26th for 10 weeks every Monday morning with me. It will be like a boot camp of sorts, learning how to deal with Keaton's behaviors and such. I feel blessed we found this resource and that we're able to attend. A neighbor will be helping me get the other two kids off to school those mornings so I can just go with Keaton. In the meantime, he's still doing OT, speech and meeting with the developmental specialist through early intervention. ABA therapy (applied behavior analysis) also started last week, and so far he's seemed to enjoy having people come and play with him. It's nice for me because I don't have to be with him for the session, I can come and go as I please. They give me tips of things to work on at the end and I can always ask questions. We've started with 9 hours a week, but can go up to 30 hours a week. They have goals and things they work on with him, such as his tantrums and throwing things and rocking. It will be good to keep him occupied while Sierra isn't home since he misses her. We found out WIC covers Carnation instant breakfast which Keaton loves in his bottles, and I ordered some Boost puddings to help him get the nutrition he needs. His weight is not an issue he is almost 80%, but with how little he eats I'm glad he is getting what he needs. He is 40%ish for height. The OT is addressing his feeding concerns and I hope he continues to make progress. He has said 'bobba' for bottle, 'no' and 'dadda' this month, so his speech seems to be progressing slowly but surely. He sure keeps me on my toes!</span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13;">It's interesting how your parenting becomes different when you have children with special needs. For instance, with Keaton, if he asks for something whether verbally or with gestures, we're supposed to instantly give it to him to reinforce his request and to keep him using communication instead of like yelling or crying. They call it manding. The ABA therapy is also a lot about restitution, so if he throws a toy he has to pick it up, or if he plays with a puzzle when he's done he has to put it away. They like to reinforce and praise him a lot, especially with trying to communicate. A lot of it is consistency so it can look boring but it's essential to how Keaton is going to learn. As Moms we have so much to do in our day and it can be hard to pay attention to everything, but with Keaton I have to watch for those clues that could lead to a tantrum or clues that he wants something etc.</span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13;">We went up to the mountains over Labor Day weekend, the kids loved it! Even Carter who had to stay in his wheelchair because he couldn't just crawl on the dirt. We didn't get to camp among a few other things this year that I wanted to, but it sure was nice to get out and be with family. For my mom's birthday we surprised her by most of us meeting at Texas Roadhouse for dinner. She seemed happy and surprised to see us there! All 3 kids saw the dentist and did great! Sierra was actually so excited to see the dentist, his assistant is the best! She is getting some cavities on her bottom because she's miss independent and doesn't like me to help her brush or floss, so hopefully we can work on that. It's fall and I already got my fall decorations and clothes out! I love the crisp weather, pumpkins, scarves, boots and jackets and hot chocolate and leaves. I can't wait for the fun activities too! I've been reading some good books, trying to get out with my close friends when I can. It's important for us mommas, especially those that have kids with special needs, to take care of ourselves. Our new routine has just begun, but I feel like we'll settle in nicely and I can finally enjoy some peace and quite, here and there:)</span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13;">What's Coming Up: Sierra's dance class, Walk & Roll walk for Shriner's, Church Primary program, Keaton's Play2Learn group class, new wheelchair</span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-63172238812146325822016-08-08T13:23:00.002-07:002016-08-09T15:19:53.203-07:00Summer is Coming to an End<span style="color: #6aa84f;">So, summer is coming to a close. I have mixed feelings because I don't love the hot weather but I love the sunny days. I'm also excited for school to start for Carter and Sierra so I can start focusing on Keaton's needs. Just an update on things- I have another new nephew named Kyler, he is the 7th nephew for me. Carter's new daffos are in at Shiner's, they are Batman decorated so I'm excited to see him wear them. We went to Bear Lake for a day with the Johnson side, my mother in law's family. My kids love water so they had a blast. After one of our summer sensory friendly movies, I got into a minor car accident (my fault). We are still in the process of fixing the van ourselves since the cost of the damages were close to what the car was worth, thence it was considered a total loss for insurance. So, I've been borrowing my mother in law's van in the meantime. I was without a car for a week or so. The van has to pass inspection this month so crossing my fingers. I hate car troubles! We only ended up seeing 4 out of the 10 summer program movies because we missed the first week, and then the car troubles began. Plus, Keaton had mini accidents every time we went so it just wasn't worth going anymore. He threw a food tray once at a handicapped adult's head, oy!</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">We celebrated Keaton's 2nd birthday on July 15th! We didn't throw a party because I was still processing his recent ASD diagnosis and with us living farther from family, I didn't feel like making everyone drive so far for it. But, we had cake and went to the Clinton city fair. Keaton had his 2 year check up and was 75% for height and about 50% for weight. He is still seeing OT now twice a month and the developmental specialist once a month- we changed speech to every other month until he makes more progress. I plan on adding feeding therapy back once school starts. I also contacted the Children's Center in Salt Lake for their Play2Learn group; he'll start this fall or in January depending on space. I applied for dspd (division of services for people with disabilities) so we'll see if Keaton qualifies right now for that- Carter is already on the list. I also applied for ssi so there's a 4 month waiting period to see if Keaton qualifies- again, for now. Things might and hopefully will change. Keaton had some follow ups from his diagnosis appointment; he had a sedated MRI (brain scan) and ABR (hearing test). It took up half our day but the good news is he passed both and was such a good boy! His genetic test also came back normal. It looks at certain areas of genes that are associated with developmental delays and autism to find possible causes. There's a wiggly worm sensory processing class that I might sign up for as well in Salt Lake. </span><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Awlz-r8b_yE/V6jneujOQaI/AAAAAAAAAz8/upRMPWQ-q70Wa-uHwcC3uMG2QWTGGEfaQCLcB/s1600/13729075_10208041408767917_7942032599912582943_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Awlz-r8b_yE/V6jneujOQaI/AAAAAAAAAz8/upRMPWQ-q70Wa-uHwcC3uMG2QWTGGEfaQCLcB/s320/13729075_10208041408767917_7942032599912582943_n.jpg" width="180" /></a><span style="color: #6aa84f;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SoBXu0LB-xk/V6jneIvZLmI/AAAAAAAAAz4/wE8LhHSPGy4yoMXgZmjQx8cG-uKYoF_-wCLcB/s1600/13690595_10208040989157427_6487029492606222918_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SoBXu0LB-xk/V6jneIvZLmI/AAAAAAAAAz4/wE8LhHSPGy4yoMXgZmjQx8cG-uKYoF_-wCLcB/s200/13690595_10208040989157427_6487029492606222918_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x60dZzNJDWI/V6jil3njYWI/AAAAAAAAAzc/Pajv0gCNyiwLXWsu3GcK5cd5UKRz0r8owCLcB/s1600/13697143_10208044205957845_5272727139329926082_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x60dZzNJDWI/V6jil3njYWI/AAAAAAAAAzc/Pajv0gCNyiwLXWsu3GcK5cd5UKRz0r8owCLcB/s200/13697143_10208044205957845_5272727139329926082_n.jpg" width="112" /></a><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sl_k9RF2F0A/V6jinoRn5cI/AAAAAAAAAzg/NlymbGLUw6YIt6lxXheu0wJHNBbfcYvhQCLcB/s1600/13718701_10208043727065873_9220647016395038973_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sl_k9RF2F0A/V6jinoRn5cI/AAAAAAAAAzg/NlymbGLUw6YIt6lxXheu0wJHNBbfcYvhQCLcB/s200/13718701_10208043727065873_9220647016395038973_n.jpg" width="112" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> I finished a book called Bloom: a memoir by Kelle Hampton that a friend suggested- it's about a mother's journey to acceptance and her grief process as she has her 2nd child and finds out she was born with down syndrome. It was good for me to read because I still feel like I am processing Carter and his challenges as well as Keaton's now. Carter has been doing good at home other than the occasional crying fit, but unfortunately we haven't been to physical therapy in July because of the car issues and being so busy. It's hard for me to take all three kids and expect to focus on Carter. I hope with school coming back he'll be able to regain any skills he may have lost this summer. Carter will be in 1st grade, how crazy is that! We've been school shopping for clothes, they outgrow their stuff so fast it seems! Carter's horse therapy will be ending in the next few weeks as our scholarship ends- it's been a great experience, one I hope we can do again! I filled out a mountain of paperwork to have Carter accessed just like Keaton was for autism, since I'm sure he's on the spectrum as well. I should have done it years ago but didn't really think about it. Having that diagnosis opens some doors for more services, but the wait to be seen is pretty long. We are also waiting to hear if insurance approved Carter's new wheelchair- we ordered a zippy that will allow Carter to help push the wheels and have more independence. It's been over 4 years since he got his first wheelchair and he's almost outgrown it. It will be an exciting change! </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8pbpL0xFnmc/V6jou_xGCeI/AAAAAAAAA0I/Mw4YROZPxUIlWLD6Gs_HlmywedPxv7uXgCLcB/s1600/Quickie-Zippie-2T.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8pbpL0xFnmc/V6jou_xGCeI/AAAAAAAAA0I/Mw4YROZPxUIlWLD6Gs_HlmywedPxv7uXgCLcB/s200/Quickie-Zippie-2T.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Sierra started an online preschool program through Waterford called Upstart. We do it at home online 5 days a week for 20 minutes. She has enjoyed it so far and looks forward to doing it. She will start her 2nd year of preschool through Head Start soon; it will be 4 days a week for half a day. We're also waiting on her speech assessments through Primary Children's and the University Assessment Clinic to address any concerns (possible appraxia) and possible adhd. She is quite hyperactive for me at home and has trouble concentrating at times and falling asleep at night. Her scores in preschool at the end of the year were low too, which could indicate adhd as well. Part of it could be it's summer and everyone is here and things are busier, but the pediatrician has seen her twice and said girls exhibit signs differently than boys, so we'll see what the doctors say. She starts dance next month, so I'm hoping that with the 2 preschool programs she's in and dance class, she will be able to tire herself out and calm down. I just want her to succeed and not fall behind.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">We went boating with my family at Jordanelle over the weekend, and it would have been so fun except it was so windy! With 13 kids ages 7 and under, it was kind of crazy. We got this cute picture of 10 of the kids in the relaxation station tube. We were missing the three youngest grand kids. Family is the best!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fb58QVB3-lQ/V6jlC186xaI/AAAAAAAAAzs/c5eXOFEICSo5OaZk0aK9YmiUql5OaGd-ACLcB/s1600/13903305_10209093273781948_6075883699611139639_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="151" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fb58QVB3-lQ/V6jlC186xaI/AAAAAAAAAzs/c5eXOFEICSo5OaZk0aK9YmiUql5OaGd-ACLcB/s200/13903305_10209093273781948_6075883699611139639_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">We just met with Utah Behavioral Services today to get approved for Keaton's ABA therapy, which I mentioned in my last post. It's specific to kids with autism and focuses on praise and consistency. Keaton does exhibit some behavior issues like tantrums over small things and needs specific ways to calm down as well as throwing things at people's heads and knocking things down. I hope we can work on these things and work towards Keaton being more socially acceptable and age appropriate. Right now my biggest frustration is that he isn't talking other than the occasional "uh oh" or "Momma" or "car" which we think is his way of saying "Carter". Also, his throwing tendency has hurt Carter a lot as he is the main target and the objects or toys are heavy. Keaton doesn't seem to understand "no" or "stop" or he does and just enjoys our reactions. Trying to figure out Keaton will be a puzzle I think.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Besides just life and therapy and doctor appointments, family dinners, birthdays and baby blessings and the occasional escape to go out with a friend or have a play date...I am just trying to survive it feels like. This blog is a great way for me to journal our activities as well as remember what's going on and express my feelings. In this fast paced and technology driven world, we don't have enough time to just sit down and talk to people, have real deep conversations. I care so much about my family and friends and kids that it sometimes feels like a full-time job just trying to keep in touch with everyone. I definitely try to be a good friend and Mother and advocate for my children and research all the possible activities and things they can do that will benefit them, but is also affordable and feasible with my situation. If I could, I would do a lot more than I already am but we can't run faster than we can walk. I am trying to pace myself but my anxiety drives me to do more than I sometimes can, and then I end up feeling overwhelmed and take a day or two to recover. Sometimes the simplest activity takes me a lot of time to consider and plan, that I used to be able to do fairly easily. It seems like my capacity to handle things is getting lower and my threshold for noise and stress is also diminishing instead of growing. I am pretty open about my feelings and issues and I have started seeing a counselor again to work through things. I have so much free time to work on things, right? Lol.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Anyways, thanks for reading, and always feel free to comment or ask questions! The thing that gets me through the day is knowing how hard my hubby is working at his job and school, and how cute my kids are when they play together. I often find Sierra and Keaton playing a game together giggling or Keaton and Carter playing in the same room. That's my paycheck!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">What's Coming Up: Carter's yearly GI appointment, school starts for Carter and Sierra, dance starts, Sierra's speech assessment, Keaton's ABA therapy...</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Also, now that the blog isn't just about Carter's journey with 1p36 deletion syndrome but also Keaton's journey with autism...ideas for a change of my blog title? </span></div>
Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-48816728285616503712016-06-26T10:16:00.001-07:002016-06-26T21:45:03.224-07:00Appointments, Summer Activities, Keaton's Diagnosis<span style="color: #0b5394;">Again, this will probably be a long post, so stick with it if you wish. Carter had his sedated ABR (auditory brainstem response) test. We got in fast and smooth and it went great. Both ears passed all pitches, so that was a relief. When a child that is non-verbal or doesn't respond or always pay attention, a regular sound booth test and such doesn't always work. The ABR is accurate and efficient; the only downside is putting them to sleep. We went to St. George mid May for 3 nights and stayed in my parents' home there. Most of Chris's family went as well and stayed in nearby hotels. We went to the St. George Children's Museum and the nearby park and splash park. The next day we went to the main street splash park then walked around Snow Canyon. We got a nice group shot. We had dinner together at the house, then drove back on Sunday morning with a stop at Cove Fort where we had a nice picnic. The kids did pretty good on the trip.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p1O8bqo6Yz8/V2__dJWv0KI/AAAAAAAAAyc/kFsAYGrvALsZIkfwABQ8vx-6CCs_aSbNwCLcB/s1600/13391422_10207766780342378_5278311502642274332_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p1O8bqo6Yz8/V2__dJWv0KI/AAAAAAAAAyc/kFsAYGrvALsZIkfwABQ8vx-6CCs_aSbNwCLcB/s320/13391422_10207766780342378_5278311502642274332_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Memorial Day we visited my Grandmother's grave and then went swimming. Sierra had her last day of preschool and Carter his last day of Kindergarten. I wasn't able to make the graduation because of short notice, but I don't think he would have cared anyway. Every June, South Jordan Country Fest has a parade, fair, free swimming and fireworks with a concert. My mom likes the whole family to come down for it since we grew up in South Jordan; we consider it kind of a family reunion. This year several of us had things going on but we went to the parade and fair. Hoof beats to Healing received a bunch of tickets to the Odysseo by Cavalia show, and Carter and I got two tickets to go see it. The show was incredible and it was a neat experience, even if Carter was a bit of a distraction. While we went, Sierra went swimming with Grandpa. That evening Chris and I went to dinner for his 30th birthday. We stayed the entire weekend with family because we had a baby blessing the next day. It was a busy but fun weekend. For Chris's 30th birthday, we went swimming as a family, it was pretty low key. He wanted to focus on the kids having fun. He got a bike so now we can all go biking as a family. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MpsuhpHn4Y8/V3ABQQ9LgdI/AAAAAAAAAy0/Cg8GLEVLWQgkMwqqV_6yyZO5NdxVytLVwCLcB/s1600/13350378_10209212253805142_4098643275593637328_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MpsuhpHn4Y8/V3ABQQ9LgdI/AAAAAAAAAy0/Cg8GLEVLWQgkMwqqV_6yyZO5NdxVytLVwCLcB/s320/13350378_10209212253805142_4098643275593637328_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SySIQAQpAr4/V3ABEtN3AzI/AAAAAAAAAys/hJV2P00j-Qw3xaHft7GnjJ_KWuNJEbJrwCLcB/s1600/13392080_10207728737991343_6315529400031140656_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SySIQAQpAr4/V3ABEtN3AzI/AAAAAAAAAys/hJV2P00j-Qw3xaHft7GnjJ_KWuNJEbJrwCLcB/s320/13392080_10207728737991343_6315529400031140656_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">For the summer, besides horse therapy every Wednesday, the kids and I have been going to the Megaplex in Ogden to see a sensory friendly kid movie every Wednesday morning. So far we've seen Minions and Pan. It has been interesting because Carter has been the best while the other two wander all throughout the theater and don't really pay attention to the movie, but it's still nice to do something different. So far we have been by far the most disruptive people in the theater. Oh well. I think it's awesome places do things like that though, so you can do something fun without having to worry about how your children behave. Keaton loves the stairs and the lights. Carter had his yearly appointment at Shriner's to see orthopedics, and it was a little crazy with all the kids with me but it went well. His spine and hips look better than last year, so he's doing good. His left leg is slightly longer than his right, so something to keep an eye on. Carter is still seeing physical therapy outpatient twice a month in Bountiful. Keaton is still doing all of his therapy, and for one of his last physical therapy appointments, we met at Chloe's Sunshine Playground in Syracuse. It was built for a child with disabilities, so you can push a wheelchair throughout the entire park, and it had two handicapped swings and a musical area. It was pretty cool to try it out. Keaton loved walking around, Carter liked the swings and Sierra all the slides. I love finding new things to try up north, since we're still new to the area. Roy library does sensory hour the 1st Saturday of each month, so I want to try that out. Keaton's early intervention group had a play day at a park in Layton; there were activities to do and it was right next to a splash park. It opened when we left, so we'll have to go back and try it. Sierra had a sleepover with her best friend and 2nd cousin; they went swimming, had pizza and played together. Even though they're still young, it was fun to see them have fun together.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Fathers Day was busy but nice; we let Chris sleep in and made breakfast, then had church and went to visit both sets of dads down south. Chris is a wonderful dad to the kids; he loves being with them and even after a long day at work and school, he wants nothing more than to be with his kids. My dad is also a wonderful dad, he is involved and loves us all, and now is the best Grandpa. He has a special relationship with my kids and they just love him and look forward to seeing him and being tickled or wrestled. We got our access pass finally, it allows us free entrance into the national parks because of Carter's disabilities. The summer has been a bit crazy with all the kids home and trying to keep them all happy and entertained. Carter gets bored and likes to 'attack' Keaton still, and Sierra demands a lot of attention. Being a mom is definitely not easy, and things won't be getting any easier for us. Besides Keaton's physical therapy fading out, he still sees OT, speech and a developmental specialist. I was feeling very overwhelmed so I dropped the feeding therapy for now since it's outpatient. One less thing to worry about. So, many know that Keaton has been in Early Intervention for over a year now. He is behind in almost every skill, but he is making progress. He was a late crawler and walker, and so far only says a few words. I have been worried about him for some time and have been watching things he does that didn't seem typical or 'normal'. Was he picking it up from Carter? Was I just being paranoid because I already had a kid with special needs? I was doubting myself and questioning people around me to see what they thought. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">So, I filled out some paperwork to have him seen at the University Developmental Assessment Clinic in Salt Lake. That's where we started with Carter, although it was a little different at the time. They told me once they got the paperwork, it would be 3 months or so to even schedule us an appointment, which would then be a 8-9 month wait. I was shocked to hear that, but determined to get everything in quickly so he could be seen. I prepared myself that he wouldn't be seen until he was about three. He already had testing done through Early Intervention and feeding therapy, which showed delays but gave no answers. When we saw Dr. Murphy last month for Carter, I happened to mention a few things to her about Keaton. She seemed a little concerned as well, and suggested I call the clinic again and see if they could push him up. I did just that, and they said they were doing some new things and kids under 3 with delays and concerns would be seen sooner. I was told that he'd get an appointment by August. I was very happy to hear that, so I waited. Just a week or so later, they called to schedule Keaton for an appointment. We just had to wait 1 1/2 weeks to get in. They are doing clinics once a week where you get to see all the specialists in one sitting and leave with a diagnosis or answers. I left the other two kids home with Chris and just Keaton and I went. We filled out paperwork for probably the first 40 minutes in a play room, then saw audiology. Keaton had just had his post op appointment with ENT for his tubes that were placed, which looked great, but they weren't able to complete a full hearing test. They tried again, and he did pretty good. The age is hard because they won't stay still.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Next, we saw the speech pathologist. She had me fill out more questions and watched Keaton play while she conducted her testing. She told me she was concerned, obviously, because he wasn't speaking or using non-verbal ways to communicate. She also got the chance to see him eat a snack, and was concerned with how he ate. He wasn't using his jaws or tongue to move things around, he just uses an up and down motion. She said he could have appraxia which is a type of speech disorder that causes trouble when making sounds correctly and consistently. She also mentioned he could have dysarthria, which is a motor-speech disorder that makes it hard to use or control the muscles of the mouth, tongue, palate and vocal cords. This can also affect chewing and swallowing. She said since he isn't speaking much yet, she'd have to wait to see him again in 6-12 months to evaluate. The main thing that surprised me with her visit, is that one of Sierra's speech therapists mentioned she could have appraxia, and I was told it can run in the family and is present from birth. So, now I'm going to have Sierra see this speech pathologist, because not every speech professional is trained to diagnose appraxia or even work with it.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Then we had a break and saw the psychologist. She was an older lady but very kind. She interacted and played with Keaton and conducted her testing. She explained everything to me and what she was looking for, and asked that I just observe unless he needed comfort, which he did twice. She explained to me her concerns, and then we had another break before we saw the developmental pediatrician. By then, we had been there about four hours and we were tired and hungry. Keaton fell asleep on me while we talked, so she wasn't able to see him play. But based off the information I gave her and what the others observed, she was able to see where he was at. We went over his early intervention testing scores and some more questions she had. Then she told me to wait while they all met together to discuss their findings. We went to the play room once again, where another mom and her daughter was also. It was nice to have someone else to talk to while we waited. Keaton was an angel during this whole process; he didn't throw fits and was quite congenial. We went back in to talk with the pediatrician, and she said they had diagnosed Keaton with autism spectrum disorder. Their tests were all to see if he met enough criteria to qualify, and he did. Yes, he is still quite young, but the benefit is we can start getting him more help now and be ahead of the game. The doctor said she knows adults with autism and you wouldn't even know it. She said right now, because of his speech issues and feeding problems, that he is rather high on the spectrum. But that can change. At the risk of writing a novel, I will leave it at there.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">I was not surprised to hear the diagnosis, because it's what I was there looking for. It validated my feelings and concerns. Now we had a direction to go and things to do. Not everyone that goes to the clinic is diagnosed. It means Keaton will get more help in school and hopefully more understanding from those around him. People might get confused with this diagnosis because he is cuddly and does make eye contact. The spectrum varies and there are so many different types. So what's next? We might get an MRI to see if Keaton's brain has any abnormalities to explain why he is so delayed. There's a 10-20% chance they'll find anything. We sent off a genetic test to see if they find anything, even though it definitely wouldn't be Carter's diagnosis. We also need to set up and start ABA therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis) which is specific to autistic children. Thankfully they come to our home to do the therapy. There are other resources and things I need to look into, but we have a good head start. Technically, Keaton has 5 or more diagnoses: autism spectrum disorder, severe expressive language delay, feeding difficulties/dysphagia, gross/fine motor delay and sensory processing difficulties.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">What is Autism Spectrum Disorder? It is a neurodevelopmmental disorder that is characterized by repetitive behaviors as well as difficulties in social interaction and verbal and nonverbal communication. Some or all of these behaviors are present from early childhood and affect daily functioning. It is important to keep in mind that ASD is NOT caused by anything the child's caregivers have done. There is no cure, but therapy can substantially improve symptoms. The term "spectrum" refers to the wide range of symptoms, skills, and levels of impairments in functioning that can occur in those with ASD. </span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">If you have questions, feel free to ask me, I'd be happy to answer. This is not something I'm trying to hide or be ashamed of. Like my mom said, he's still Keaton. The Keaton that loves to play with balls and bubbles and smiles and cuddles and does funny things. I've gone through a range of emotions in the last few days, and I'm sure that won't stop anytime soon. We'd appreciate prayers for strength and understanding and patience, as our current load seems extremely full, especially being farther from family and already having Carter and having him home during the summer. I feel very thankful for the doctors and that we were able to be seen so quickly. They are extremely skilled and trained as diagnosticians. I am thankful for the answers and that I can feel more at peace. Thanks for reading this and being a part of our lives!</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">What's next: Carter gets new daffos (ankle braces and possibly a new wheelchair), Keaton's 2nd birthday, Carter's GI appointment, therapy therapy therapy...</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-50336394316389439212016-05-18T18:28:00.000-07:002016-05-18T18:57:45.149-07:00Busy and thoughts<span style="color: #3d85c6;">My brother and his wife had a beautiful daughter named Tavia, and Sierra was so excited to go with me to meet her! Darling little thing with lots of dark hair. Sierra's swimming class ended, it was only four weeks but she really enjoyed it. Carter had his sleep safe bed extended for safety, because he's getting so tall. With the mattress on its lowest setting and the side up, he was getting close to being able to fall out. We're thankful for insurance and National Seating & Mobility for helping us out. Keaton had his ear tubes put in; we had to be there really early. He wasn't too happy when he woke up, but it was a quick procedure. He had an ear infection in his left ear that they cleared out and fluid. The funny thing is, he hasn't acted different like he hears any better. His post op appointment and hearing test is beginning of June, so hopefully it will show he's hearing well. Keaton started OT with a great therapist that comes to our home and speech therapy. Combine that with his feeding therapy and developmental specialist, and I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed with appointments and to-do activities. We tried a bunch of water beads for sensory play and he loved it! Problem is, they ended up everywhere! </span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">Keaton is pretty delayed in most areas of development, which is concerning to me especially as the mother. While I feel like I'm doing everything I can and should, I don't feel up to the task. And it feels a lot like deja vu. I've done a lot of this before with Carter, but it's different this time. We don't know why Keaton is delayed or if he'll just catch up and be fine. I admit to giving in to feelings of feeling bad for him and myself and wondering why I have to go through this again. Wondering what I did wrong and getting tired of peoples' stares and questions. He'll be 2 in 2 months and all he says is 'uh oh' and still walks slow and slightly spread out. I turned in paperwork for Keaton to have a developmental assessment at the Children with Special Needs Clinic; they said he should be seen by August. In the meantime, he is doing some good things. He is using his teeth/jaws more when chewing food and playing with food and trying new things. He is really good with a ball and likes walking on different kinds of terrain. He is sleeping better at night (knock on wood) and napping well. He is attending to tasks more and paying attention. I sure love his huge smiles and cuddles. No matter what, I love that little boy fiercely.</span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">Miss Sierra celebrated her 4th birthday! It seemed to last an entire week because her birthday was on a Monday. I was a mean mom and took her to the pediatrician (3 shots ouch!) 50% weight and 80% height, then had cake/presents, and Daddy took her to Layton's Surf n' Swim to ride the waves on tubes. The next day, she went to Grandma Devey's for a sleepover. They went to the mall and she went to Build a Bear where she made a pony named Brownie. I was surprised at her choice but thought it was cute. She had such a fun time playing with her Grandma and cousins! Thursday she took cupcakes to her preschool class where they sang to her, and then Friday was her birthday party. We had a tea party with dolls at Gardner Village's Georgell Doll Shop. We had a room reserved just for us (so cute!) and just her girl cousins were invited. They had 'tea' (strawberry lemonade), sandwiches and cupcakes. We played Tea Bingo, pin the teacup on the doily, took pictures and opened presents. The girls were fascinated with pouring their 'tea' and walking around the shop and outside. It was the cutest and most feminine party, perfect for my princess!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8U9jRKWFvs/Vz0MBGcTxVI/AAAAAAAAAxI/NW7iqIBY6zAU9ouRR6ggNp7zw5AxdTGOwCLcB/s1600/13096244_10207490828443753_189440916811943672_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8U9jRKWFvs/Vz0MBGcTxVI/AAAAAAAAAxI/NW7iqIBY6zAU9ouRR6ggNp7zw5AxdTGOwCLcB/s200/13096244_10207490828443753_189440916811943672_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k1mFFEKoeJE/Vz0L8uy_jhI/AAAAAAAAAxE/6LMB92jbOCcm336c1d41652lYUJWTX7ewCLcB/s1600/13062537_10208348896612984_3146756477682063834_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k1mFFEKoeJE/Vz0L8uy_jhI/AAAAAAAAAxE/6LMB92jbOCcm336c1d41652lYUJWTX7ewCLcB/s200/13062537_10208348896612984_3146756477682063834_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WQln7v_-eAM/Vz0MOG9F8LI/AAAAAAAAAxU/MnWUhi4JpN4-LcHUx7fuBIPDeT16yj2GwCLcB/s1600/13064505_10154207815221108_2268305050406888856_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WQln7v_-eAM/Vz0MOG9F8LI/AAAAAAAAAxU/MnWUhi4JpN4-LcHUx7fuBIPDeT16yj2GwCLcB/s200/13064505_10154207815221108_2268305050406888856_o.jpg" width="131" /></a><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vhgwO41PyIw/Vz0MHndHqFI/AAAAAAAAAxQ/rzCTa0YK5aQyGKbQ4POjBQfj2WTFiFyWgCLcB/s1600/13083297_10207470687460241_3855968390770483135_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vhgwO41PyIw/Vz0MHndHqFI/AAAAAAAAAxQ/rzCTa0YK5aQyGKbQ4POjBQfj2WTFiFyWgCLcB/s200/13083297_10207470687460241_3855968390770483135_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eWq4PNH1Jws/Vz0MDXtuN6I/AAAAAAAAAxM/Gs6nEc5OwnQ43LGOr2rekNHkhoZKCVuFQCLcB/s1600/13119817_10207490820603557_7474181358003981841_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eWq4PNH1Jws/Vz0MDXtuN6I/AAAAAAAAAxM/Gs6nEc5OwnQ43LGOr2rekNHkhoZKCVuFQCLcB/s320/13119817_10207490820603557_7474181358003981841_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"> Sierra had her last day of preschool and is still doing speech therapy. She has articulation issues and perhaps more, we're not sure yet. I haven't liked her first two therapists, so we're waiting to see another one at Primary's outpatient clinic. She's such a big helper and a great sister to her brothers. She loves to pretend play with dolls, ponies, anything! We visited Wheeler Farm one evening and got some cute pictures of the kids. They loved riding the wagon. She mostly says "play with me!" and "You're my best friend".</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2xJjXsDXHUA/Vz0O-bxNmSI/AAAAAAAAAxs/Tg5XlP8dSk406ygPbwD9lSXMtCxlvcAaACLcB/s1600/13119106_10207523075929920_6111022831040412626_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2xJjXsDXHUA/Vz0O-bxNmSI/AAAAAAAAAxs/Tg5XlP8dSk406ygPbwD9lSXMtCxlvcAaACLcB/s200/13119106_10207523075929920_6111022831040412626_n.jpg" width="111" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">Mother's Day was a quiet affair- I slept in a little and Chris made me breakfast and gave me a card with gift card. We had church where the Primary kids sang (Sierra loved being up on the stand), and then dinner at Chris's mom's house. I had brunch the Friday before with my mother in law, her mom, and my two sisters in law (the younger 2 were at school). Keaton's physical therapist told me about a gym that might be fun for him while also working on his development, so we decided to go and try it out. It's called Lil' Flippers Gymnastics & Gym. They have a mom/kid class for the littles and then Sierra joined the older group. Keaton wasn't able to do a lot of what they do, but perhaps with time he will. They did a few courses with trampolines, slides, crawling on ladders and through tunnels etc. Sierra loved her class; we'll have to go a few more times! We got our family passes to the zoo (thank you Angel Hands Foundation) and to the Tree house Museum in Ogden (thank you Head Start). We tried it out last month with some cousins, it was pretty cool. Carter is still enjoying his horse therapy every week. He has just a few more weeks of Kindergarten, then it's summertime. Oy. I'm planning on doing some outpatient PT to keep working on his skills during the summer. The last few movies we've seen were Batman vs. Superman and Captain America Civil War. I have some great books on my nightstand (when I have the time to read).</span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">Carter's been having some crying spells at school and home, and we haven't quite figured out why. He's also been waking up some at night crying and waking up Sierra. We have been trying some Clonidine in the mornings and feeding him a little more often to figure it out. We saw Dr. Murphy today and Carter is probably really hungry- he was only in the 20s for weight and in the 60s for height. We are increasing his food to help him gain weight, and perhaps that will help with his crying spells. She also suggested when we get a new wheelchair this summer (he's had his for 4 years), that we could try one with big wheels to see if Carter could help propel himself. Cool idea. The social worker came in to give us some ideas on summer activities, although it's pretty hard with just me and the three kids going out. Carter failed a hearing test at school, and USDB didn't have any success at getting results from hearing tests, so we took him to audiology and he still failed the tests and sound booth. So tomorrow he's having a sedated ABR; it's been 4 years so I hope we haven't missed anything. It's really the only way to get full and accurate results.</span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">I don't know if it's summer approaching that has me nervous or what, but I've been really struggling lately with the kids. Between all the doctor/therapy appointments, worrying about Keaton and Carter, and trying to keep the house clean and going and the kids happy and fed...I've been exhausted. Not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. I feel drained, depleted. Even just going to the store by myself, the logistics of it are tricky. Carter has to be lifted and Keaton still clings to me. I have felt like not many can understand my particular situation, and it's isolating. Being farther from family has hit me too, and I feel like my support system is quite small. I have been angry and frustrated, which hasn't made me feel any better. But I decided it's ok to let myself feel like this, because I can't always be happy or content. Motherhood is hard, and I do have some unique situations on my hands. I am overwhelmed and quite busy. It's easy to see my failings and berate myself every night. But I guess the point is, I keep going. I keep trying. And I sure love these kiddos of mine, even though I'm pretty sure I will go crazy any moment now. I don't rely on my Heavenly Father much, because I tell myself I'm strong enough and I've got this. Plus sometimes my bitterness blames Him for my circumstances. But when you see the fabric around you crumbling, it's time to start asking for help. And to humble yourself. Stay tuned, if you dare, for my progress.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mc-YQ8LxLrM/Vz0dgjQs8NI/AAAAAAAAAyE/giYebJpsB0MjATj9xeJt6gmhuKJGY9W2wCLcB/s1600/13221440_10206671875656082_7941862591839677882_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mc-YQ8LxLrM/Vz0dgjQs8NI/AAAAAAAAAyE/giYebJpsB0MjATj9xeJt6gmhuKJGY9W2wCLcB/s200/13221440_10206671875656082_7941862591839677882_n.jpg" width="137" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">What's coming up: Carter's sedated hearing test (tomorrow), weekend trip to St. George, Carter's outpatient PT appointment, Sierra's outpatient speech consultation, SUMMER, Chris's 30th birthday and Father's Day.......</span>Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-84121156407143002132016-04-07T13:30:00.001-07:002016-04-07T15:25:22.903-07:00LIFE<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hGYLpbqK4V4/Vwa8H-jhGyI/AAAAAAAAAvI/gyXaLY-xD5AS7i2qdoYVt5xF9a_P1afNQ/s1600/12821373_10207013568352549_8660848612354881837_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zf20LkwIdp8/Vwa8dUBgvaI/AAAAAAAAAvU/pwR__cCDXksvyF3yZtKxPM7P-EYraa0oA/s1600/10660105_10206939108011087_445758060670372093_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zf20LkwIdp8/Vwa8dUBgvaI/AAAAAAAAAvU/pwR__cCDXksvyF3yZtKxPM7P-EYraa0oA/s200/10660105_10206939108011087_445758060670372093_n.jpg" width="111" /></a><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hGYLpbqK4V4/Vwa8H-jhGyI/AAAAAAAAAvI/gyXaLY-xD5AS7i2qdoYVt5xF9a_P1afNQ/s200/12821373_10207013568352549_8660848612354881837_n.jpg" width="111" /><span style="color: #38761d;">A lot has happened since I last blogged, so this might be a little dense. We had Valentine's Day which was uneventful because of being sick, but the kids got cute Valentine's and I helped with Sierra's preschool party by having the kids decorate heart sugar cookies and play bingo. Then we had our 7 year wedding anniversary, and we went on a date. I got a cute eco flower bouquet and got Chris a month pass at the indoor shooting range nearby. We were able to go on a nice date. Sierra and I went swimming at the Clearfield Rec Center and we all visited the zoo, still a bit chilly that day. Time sprung forward and yay, spring time!! More walks outside and playing in the backyard. All the kids saw the dentist, and it was the first time Sierra had x-yrays, a full thorough cleaning and fluoride, and she did it all! I was so proud of her. Tax return time is also great, we bought a new couch which was very needed. Our old one was so worn out and falling apart. We also had the carpets cleaned in most the house, got a giant banana rocking chair for Carter, and a mattress for Sierra, and mounted our TV on the wall for safety. Sierra is now in a big girl bed which she loves!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xKyDi6RoktA/Vwa8Kxsa8oI/AAAAAAAAAvM/SKEwgaUdvpEv_mId-tHIMpPwb6K0fdomw/s1600/12672074_10207203608183426_33495300551979461_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="177" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xKyDi6RoktA/Vwa8Kxsa8oI/AAAAAAAAAvM/SKEwgaUdvpEv_mId-tHIMpPwb6K0fdomw/s320/12672074_10207203608183426_33495300551979461_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oqH97B0hUP4/Vwa8MMOvdbI/AAAAAAAAAvQ/63MdKXhSKnA8K69YexfDjgjiuO29t7ZVw/s1600/12418904_10206938962647453_8595060173631404347_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oqH97B0hUP4/Vwa8MMOvdbI/AAAAAAAAAvQ/63MdKXhSKnA8K69YexfDjgjiuO29t7ZVw/s200/12418904_10206938962647453_8595060173631404347_o.jpg" width="200" /></a> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">We were all sick for awhile which wasn't fun- we got a stomach bug that was passed around, and then Carter got influenza from school we think. It took him about 1 1/2 weeks to get better. He lost 4 pounds in 2 weeks which was 10% of his body weight, so that was kind of scary. Thank goodness for Pedialyte, his G tube and his sweet temperament! Keaton started walking which is just wonderful! I honestly didn't think it was going to happen as his 2nd birthday is approaching. He still will crawl occasionally, but he is doing great! Easter was a beautiful day, we got some cute pictures of the kids even though just Sierra and I went to Grandma's and her Easter egg hunt, since Carter was still sick and Keaton had a cold. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TZ33X0Kqa6M/Vwa90auoKVI/AAAAAAAAAvs/fm7FSemjsdcDvF9Wr_WKqH7kWOjLp4mCg/s1600/12901158_10207321064319756_6257760375544908859_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TZ33X0Kqa6M/Vwa90auoKVI/AAAAAAAAAvs/fm7FSemjsdcDvF9Wr_WKqH7kWOjLp4mCg/s200/12901158_10207321064319756_6257760375544908859_o.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OnXIExqWT9U/Vwa9xS-0HyI/AAAAAAAAAvk/cggU3VJIYlYmdIOk4nSVZV9P4CFiUZH1w/s1600/12801573_10208051837786699_6374193639481192968_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OnXIExqWT9U/Vwa9xS-0HyI/AAAAAAAAAvk/cggU3VJIYlYmdIOk4nSVZV9P4CFiUZH1w/s200/12801573_10208051837786699_6374193639481192968_n.jpg" width="150" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lfT_eFno2c0/Vwa9z_Y5rqI/AAAAAAAAAvo/h9-pVqS5PqgK80w3BwukSqmOiaxwfZMyQ/s1600/12888632_10207227393858053_8559811946573319167_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lfT_eFno2c0/Vwa9z_Y5rqI/AAAAAAAAAvo/h9-pVqS5PqgK80w3BwukSqmOiaxwfZMyQ/s320/12888632_10207227393858053_8559811946573319167_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-27u4N-Dtl1Q/Vwa_dp-JVwI/AAAAAAAAAv8/8ReanODXsIMXxPLR_e2aWge2Gif_2hBqg/s1600/12938071_10207340933936484_7863880205592992709_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-27u4N-Dtl1Q/Vwa_dp-JVwI/AAAAAAAAAv8/8ReanODXsIMXxPLR_e2aWge2Gif_2hBqg/s200/12938071_10207340933936484_7863880205592992709_n.jpg" width="111" /></a>Sierra started talking time once a week, which is a speech program with 5-6 centers that have games, that meets every Tuesday after preschool. I go with her and work with her along with the speech therapists there. Her main issues are articulation and baby talk, as well as her l's and s's. We also got a family membership to the Tree house Museum in Ogden, it will be fun to check it out! April has been a busy month because Sierra started swimming lessons twice a week and Carter started horse therapy in Bountiful. I'm so glad I found a place for him, and even better, it offers scholarships! He goes every Wednesday after school and just loves it! It's called Hoof beats to Healing and they go to Bountiful once a week but is based in Saratoga Springs. They use Missouri fox trotter horses that mimic a crawl in their gait. Crawling is an essential learning skill as well as mapping for the brain because it connects both hemispheres. So far Carter loves it! They even let Sierra take a turn. Jon & Jill had their first baby, a boy named Porter, my 6th nephew! It was fun to see and hold him.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tk8Tx3VMZfs/Vwa_bD6XdDI/AAAAAAAAAv4/2mn4Cdjq1XMDOZi3OC2f0PMaIUMs1wvfg/s1600/12973027_10207334293410475_4227111070127453064_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tk8Tx3VMZfs/Vwa_bD6XdDI/AAAAAAAAAv4/2mn4Cdjq1XMDOZi3OC2f0PMaIUMs1wvfg/s200/12973027_10207334293410475_4227111070127453064_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #38761d;"> We renewed our family membership to the zoo through Angel Hands Foundation, with a donation for them to auction. They believe in paying it forward which is great. Keaton has had multiple ear infections, and combined with the fact his speech is very delayed, he is getting ear tubes on the 22nd. I'm hoping it will help him hear better if there is fluid trapped in there so he can make progress. He also started feeding therapy at an outpatient IHC clinic because he isn't properly using his entire mouth when eating and is very picky. They gave us a Nuk brush to use to help stimulate his mouth muscles for eating, and suggested we try licorice or slim jim's to strengthen his jaw as well. Feeding issues usually go hand in hand with speech delays because it all involves the mouth. They said it's good if he plays with his food and is exposed to as much variety as possible. I had his yearly early intervention meeting today that involved a lot of questions and testing to see where he's at. They said he throws things a lot probably because he gets distracted easily or doesn't know how things work. We still definitely have things to work on in the speech, feeding and functional play areas. I'm just so glad to see him walking! At least I know he's making progress in one area. He loves to swing outside with Sierra and go on the slide. Right now he's getting his 2 year molars, so he isn't the happiest. Plus we've been so busy lately he just gets dragged around with us. We lost an aunt on the Thorup side this week quite unexpectedly. It makes me grateful for families and all those that are in our lives. I hope to make more time for those special people in my life and to keep involved with them. We also had the benefit of Women's Conference and LDS General Conference this month. Downton Abbey came to a close which was sad, but Call The Midwife is back and soon Reign and The Mindy Project:) Also keeping my nightstand stacked with wonderful books!</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Coming up: A new niece, Keaton's ear tube surgery, Sierra's 4th birthday and a tea party with dolls: girls only! </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Things I want to do: Take a sign language class sometime and a parenting class The Incredible Years ages 2-8 which covers: setting boundaries and appropriate discipline, setting expectations, nurturing their social/emotional needs, praise/incentives and more!</span><br />
<br />
<div style="font-family: 'PT Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 1.8em; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px; padding: 0.3em 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-45999993502666395192016-02-10T16:09:00.002-08:002016-02-10T16:25:30.067-08:00Holidays & New School, Challenges<span style="color: #741b47;">I realized I haven't posted for like three months, so I'll try to catch up. Thanksgiving was small for us because Chris and one of the kids were sick, I forget which one now (lol), so we stayed home and had Thanksgiving together. Since I don't cook, we just ordered out. It wasn't the best day ever, but I admit I am kind of a Thanksgiving scrooge. It's just not my favorite holiday. Carter turned 6 in December, we just celebrated with our small family since he doesn't care for parties and can't eat cake. I decorated his wheelchair for school. Then of course came Christmas, and we were very blessed. Someone did the 12 days of Christmas for us which was a lot of fun to look out for, and someone dropped off 3 wrapped gifts, not marked, one for each child; and we had a secret Santa give us a gift card so we could buy presents for the kids. I was extremely grateful because Christmas is usually a hard time of year for us financially, with no bonus or anything. Our kids are still young so they probably wouldn't have cared, but it's fun to spoil them. We spent Christmas Eve with the Thorup side, and Christmas day we visited both sides. The kids were spoiled and we all had a great day. New Years Eve was quiet, we're not the party type especially with little kids. </span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #741b47;">2015 was a big year for us- we went to Disneyland for the first time with our kids (except poor Carter) and bought our first home. With those changes it has also brought one more big one, and that was Carter transitioning from Utah School for the deaf and blind to the Davis district. One of my big concerns when we moved is that the district wouldn't have what we wanted. Jordan school district was awesome and it was hard to leave it, where we both grew up. After looking at our home school up the street, we settled on Carter attending Kindergarten at Parkside Elementary, just 3 minutes away. Our biggest frustration has been transportation, but finally we have everything settled (I hope). It's a long story, but Carter was approved to attend Kindergarten all day and have transportation back and forth, since it's in his IEP. His teacher is great and so nice, and it's great it's closer to us now. There are 11-12 students with 1 teacher and 2-3 aides. He seems to be adjusting well, and they got him a push walker to work with again.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #741b47;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--zGggSwc9oA/VrvO5Yr5i2I/AAAAAAAAAuw/VmeCblllc24/s1600/946167_10206748322961580_5241569425870920970_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--zGggSwc9oA/VrvO5Yr5i2I/AAAAAAAAAuw/VmeCblllc24/s200/946167_10206748322961580_5241569425870920970_n.jpg" width="150" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #741b47;">I turned 30 last month on the 30th, and I was lucky to have a girls overnight trip to The Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake the weekend before. It was so much fun and so needed! My mom is great at putting things together, especially just us girls. It was my mom, myself, my two sisters, and two sisters in law. We had two adjoining rooms, had dinner at The Cheesecake Factory at City Creek, shopped, hot tubbed, took pictures of course and more shopping. When we turn 30, my mom also gets us our own Minky Couture blanket. Mine matches Sierra's, which she thought was fun:)</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #741b47;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IrjfUPRIn2A/VrvOd-2m11I/AAAAAAAAAuk/_Kt0UW8c9wU/s1600/886959_10153940621351108_4008681116370794938_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IrjfUPRIn2A/VrvOd-2m11I/AAAAAAAAAuk/_Kt0UW8c9wU/s200/886959_10153940621351108_4008681116370794938_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #741b47;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gFD132Nj4MY/VrvOe_KvaxI/AAAAAAAAAuo/KlJjbAwQMYU/s1600/12604691_10206738403233593_8214934137741840284_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gFD132Nj4MY/VrvOe_KvaxI/AAAAAAAAAuo/KlJjbAwQMYU/s200/12604691_10206738403233593_8214934137741840284_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #741b47;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hWrTqF9qA_k/VrvOgykFuXI/AAAAAAAAAus/DsPV1xmLiIQ/s1600/12583759_10153943142691108_872349633_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hWrTqF9qA_k/VrvOgykFuXI/AAAAAAAAAus/DsPV1xmLiIQ/s200/12583759_10153943142691108_872349633_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #741b47;">We also have a close 1p36 family to us that generously donated to us their son's old walker. Carter was excited right away to see it and use it. He's standing a lot now at surfaces, especially the sink and stove. He is a bit more mobile, which is actually a little frightening. At the same time, Keaton who is 18 months, is getting closer to walking as well. I call them my 'twins' because they are at the same stages in so many ways. They play with a lot of the same toys, even fighting over them. Our biggest challenge with Carter right now is that he loves to 'hug' Keaton so much. He will give him a great bear hug but won't let go. It's frustrating for us because he doesn't understand 'no' and seems to feed off of Keaton's cries. He will go for him and hug him multiple times a day, so I feel like a referee. It's also frustrating because Keaton could get away but doesn't even try to. Carter also loves to pull hair, and will do it on purpose to his sister. These behavioral issues aren't huge yet, but ones I am definitely not a fan of.</span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #741b47;">We've lived in our house for over 6 months now, and probably with the winter making things harder to get out, I have felt isolated and more shut in. I feel like we are not as involved with our families as I would like to be. It's hard not getting the breaks or help like I used to. Now any errand I run has to be done while Carter is at school, or I just have to deal with all 3 kids by myself. I can't wait until Chris is done with school, so he'll be home more. I think the winter blues have certainly kicked in. The kids are more emotional and difficult, my patience is thin, and I am not getting that help I used to, to help refill my bucket. This move has been hard on me, and sometimes I question it. I'm trying to just be thankful that we got a house. Our family is just an hour away, not states away, but still...I think what keeps me going right now is Downton Abbey (which is ending soon), reading other mom blogs, and The Bachelor. Let's cheer for spring!</span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #741b47;">Our ward has been great with Carter and I've made a few friends, but these things take time. I have a neighbor that is always willing to help which is wonderful. I think sometimes we get lost or it's hard to find purpose in things, and I think that's where I'm at right now. I have a hard time with Carter's behavioral issues or why he does things the way he does and why we can't communicate, and why it's harder for me to get things done or go anywhere, and we don't have family close etc etc. I have hard days as a Mom, I know everybody does, but it seems like mine are more frequent. Having a child that needs me so much while my toddler is not a great napper or sleeper and is super clingy, while having a special needs kids- it's rough. Trying to balance it all is a skill I have not perfected yet. Trying to find time for Carter to use his walker, while working with Sierra on preschool things (she is struggling with recognizing her name and writing it herself, among other things), while trying to find time or energy to work with Keaton on walking, eating new foods and language skills. It's all just a lot of work, and some days it's just easier to not do it. Motherhood is a big challenge and responsibility, but especially when your kids have additional needs.</span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #741b47;">Coming up: Valentine's Day, our 7th wedding anniversary & a new nephew:)</span>Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-61918065493889882932015-11-06T15:25:00.000-08:002015-11-07T11:43:16.569-08:00Halloween fun, outings, appointments and IEP/placement!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LKWupsqOyi0/Vj0tEzqlCtI/AAAAAAAAAuA/krzawdAdxnI/s1600/12191888_10206257578493275_757720984134378851_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LKWupsqOyi0/Vj0tEzqlCtI/AAAAAAAAAuA/krzawdAdxnI/s200/12191888_10206257578493275_757720984134378851_n.jpg" width="111" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #990000;">Things have been busy since my last post, we did several fun things for fall/Halloween. We took the kids to the zoo, the dinosaur museum in Ogden for their Halloween night which included games with prizes, and accompanied Carter on a field trip with his school to Black Hills Farm and went to our ward's trunk or treat. The kids had a fun Halloween night trick-or-treating at my parent's house in South Jordan with the rest of their cousins.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lm6JCMdYD0I/Vj0tA11_SbI/AAAAAAAAAtw/YflP7lo0Oe4/s1600/12195773_10206249229484555_8296860863554446935_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lm6JCMdYD0I/Vj0tA11_SbI/AAAAAAAAAtw/YflP7lo0Oe4/s200/12195773_10206249229484555_8296860863554446935_n.jpg" width="111" /></a></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8IjGOHM62Pk/Vj0s97ZtIHI/AAAAAAAAAtg/CYAs1m4ZYYE/s1600/12107923_10206189695716248_4915938640372093918_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8IjGOHM62Pk/Vj0s97ZtIHI/AAAAAAAAAtg/CYAs1m4ZYYE/s200/12107923_10206189695716248_4915938640372093918_n.jpg" width="111" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinosaur Museum</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7VZq37GiYAI/Vj0s_Y5MrqI/AAAAAAAAAto/wSPX6Sc8EPg/s1600/12182512_10206238484775944_3340260531284470877_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="111" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7VZq37GiYAI/Vj0s_Y5MrqI/AAAAAAAAAto/wSPX6Sc8EPg/s200/12182512_10206238484775944_3340260531284470877_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FA_bcqD-h8w/Vj0tDKKIGYI/AAAAAAAAAt4/HMv_STOjj4E/s1600/12196333_10207021022056950_4746179306892612956_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FA_bcqD-h8w/Vj0tDKKIGYI/AAAAAAAAAt4/HMv_STOjj4E/s320/12196333_10207021022056950_4746179306892612956_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NlGxLNLEcGc/Vj0suHzKKfI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/E6qIVavwwEQ/s1600/12109131_10206189692876177_4741007979029975228_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NlGxLNLEcGc/Vj0suHzKKfI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/E6qIVavwwEQ/s200/12109131_10206189692876177_4741007979029975228_n.jpg" width="111" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XEj2MGP6xTA/Vj0scCdgaVI/AAAAAAAAAtI/e9NpzS4A7Zw/s1600/12109323_10206189687516043_7549306692404870955_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XEj2MGP6xTA/Vj0scCdgaVI/AAAAAAAAAtI/e9NpzS4A7Zw/s200/12109323_10206189687516043_7549306692404870955_n.jpg" width="111" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3IMSEcbYhyA/Vj0swOPf8iI/AAAAAAAAAtY/M4b_5lRZhB4/s1600/10393786_10206189682955929_234971411819812227_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3IMSEcbYhyA/Vj0swOPf8iI/AAAAAAAAAtY/M4b_5lRZhB4/s200/10393786_10206189682955929_234971411819812227_n.jpg" width="111" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;"> The kids got their flu shots, and Carter had his yearly eye appointment at Primary Children's. It was a little crazy taking all three kids with me, but the doctor said he was the most attentive he had been for him yet and had excellent vision. Carter also got fitted for new braces for his feet/ankles since they're too small. His wheelchair is also going to be adjusted for his growth. We also had to go back early morning to Primary Children's for more dental restoration. Carter managed to get his spacer out with his tongue, which he could have choked on, so we had to go back in for them to put in a silver crown with the spacer attached. This will stay in better and will help guide in the adult tooth once it comes in. With Carter having a smaller mouth and getting lots of adult teeth fast (6 so far), and not being able to tolerate braces in the future, we'll have to keep a close eye on his teeth and how they come in. He didn't like the effects of the anaesthesia, but as last time, as soon as we got home he was happy again.</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dcQ-93h74h4/Vj0u5yfwPUI/AAAAAAAAAuM/RdCBBZqAv5Y/s1600/12187745_10206244398123774_1528623261442161563_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dcQ-93h74h4/Vj0u5yfwPUI/AAAAAAAAAuM/RdCBBZqAv5Y/s200/12187745_10206244398123774_1528623261442161563_n.jpg" width="111" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000;">I love this picture of Keaton, so happy! He was even sick that day. Keaton had his 15 month appointment and was 55% for height, 60% for weight and 50% for head. He is still receiving physical therapy once a month and is doing great! He just had his 6 month review and met every goal but one, and we made new ones. Every time his therapist sees him he is improving rapidly. Keaton is pulling up to stand at many surfaces and tall kneeling and transitioning in and out of all different positions, and feeding himself small finger foods. The pediatrician was concerned with a few things: that he doesn't point or wave which is a pre-language skill, and that he isn't talking other than babbling. So we are going to have the family development specialist start coming out as well, to help Keaton with his language and even some feeding therapy. Keaton is behind, but not that bad. We want to work on him side-walking by furniture and even with a walking toy that's weighed down so it's slower. He loves playing ball, tossing it back and forth with you. He loves to crawl everywhere and is getting faster and better form. The stinker is getting teeth so he still isn't sleeping all night. He loves his milk and eating most things and watching his sister play and imitate him and definitely still a momma's boy and loves to cuddle! He has quite a pair of lungs on him and screeches when he wants your attention and loves to imitate noises. Carter and Keaton often fight over the same toy which is funny. I love my little but big Keaton boy!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000;">So, I had Carter's big IEP today and his 3-year placement meeting. It was three hours long!! Intense. Their paperwork is now mostly online and his teacher is still new, so I think it made things take a little longer than usual. The speech therapist and child psychologist weren't present, and over speaker phone was his physical therapist and a school representative. Present were myself, his teacher, occupational therapist, school nurse who feeds him and another school representative. We went over Carter's progress and testing in every area, especially vision. Now that he has such a glowing report from his eye doctor and there was no mention of inattentiveness, they didn't have much to say on his vision. He does still need time to process what he's looking at, but can see both near and far and to the side and tracks wonderfully. Being seizure free and seizure med free certainly has helped with his level of awareness. His scores were highest in social because he loves everybody! So cute. Sometimes it's hard to hear how low he actually is on his skills, but to me he's doing excellent! You learn to appreciate every achievement, no matter how minor. His physical therapist was most pleased with him, because overall he had made 11% improvement. He's pulling up to stand, loves to walk with his push walker at school, he's all over the place!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000;">We also had to discuss goals in each area: pre-academics/vision, gross motor, fine motor, speech and social skills. There has to be a math and language goal which the math is covered in fine motor and language in speech. A few examples of his goals in vision; he will recognize his name in big-sized print when given 4-5 options with 90% accuracy, and that he'll independently pick an object out of 5 choices. In social skills, that he'll learn to take turns playing with peers and even learn to play with them. So far he mostly plays with adults or by himself. In gross motor, they want him to lower himself to the floor independently 4 out of 5 times, take 3 steps between furniture, and continue to work in his gait trainer. While he is great at standing, he has trouble getting down safely on his own. In fine motor, that he will place 3 items into a container (also a math goal, can count as you do so) and learn to help put on his coat or shoes while using both hands. These goals are because he is great at taking objects out of things, but not back in. And he is good at using one hand, mostly his left, but needs to learn to use both together. His thumb is also extended and he doesn't use it to pick things up, instead using a raking motion, so the OT suggested a splint for his thumb to pull it in to help him learn to use it.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000;">Finally, speech/communication goals. Since the speech therapist was absent, I talked to him over the phone to go over his goals. Carter is showing interest in imitating noises and being so aware and interested in what's going on around him, that we want to explore his communication to help him be successful in life and school. Obviously so far, his communication has been sorely lacking because he is non-verbal and doesn't sign or point. So, we want to work on using pictures more for communication. They've already done this some, but we want him to do it more consistently. We want to find 10 words or sounds that Carter can use as approximations so he can request a desired item. For example, if he can say 'ba' we can use that as bottle whenever we feed him, for him to identify the action. Or 'ma' for mom, etc. He can't say actual words yet, but we'll start with whatever noise he can say. Then, we want him to be able to make a choice out of 4 pictures for what activity or object he wants. Then, following reading a book or an activity, have pictures that represent that activity and ask him questions and have him answer by selecting the picture that goes with the answer. We may look at using a communication device as well. A lot of kiddos end up with pictures all over the house to represent an activity or object, so their non-verbal child can make choices.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000;">The last part of the meeting was to discuss placement. It's been three years since it was discussed, and with his vision not being a huge issue, there was really not a need for him to stay at a school that focuses primarily on vision. Their goal is to educate the child in the least restricted environment possible, while still making sure the child is receiving what they need. I knew this was coming, but was still sad because he's grown so much and done so well at the school for the deaf and blind. The district doesn't like you "shopping around", so they're sending his file to the Davis district, then they'll see which school can meet his needs and let me know. I will also likely contact our neighborhood principal to get a feel for the Kindergarten special ed program there. They call it a functional skills class rather than special ed class. He would go from full days to half, but they can still meet his IEP goals and speech and therapy needs there. Of course any change this big is scary, so we'll see what happens. They want to transition him at the beginning of the new year. The plus side, is Carter will be able to focus more on education and not so much on vision as he has in the past few years, and he'll have more interaction with his peers. They say it's sad to let a kid go, but great because it means they are growing and ready to move on. We love our Carter and his wonderful progress and are so thankful for all the teachers he's had to help him along the way!</span></div>
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span>
Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-5664439540173334502015-10-06T13:57:00.001-07:002015-10-08T09:15:03.570-07:00School, Family Pics & Dental Work!<span style="color: #cc0000;">We've been settling into our house, and one of the fun things we bought was a playset for the kids to play on outside. We still need to get Carter a swing, but in the meantime we've been using hammocks for him. Each child had their own room, but Sierra has been scared at night, so now she shares a room with Carter. So far they both have adjusted very well. Carter started Kindergarten at the Ogden Utah School for the Deaf and Blind campus. He leaves at 7 (I love his driver) and gets home around 4, except Wednesdays he's home at 1:30. Long week for a young kid. They had school pictures last week, so I'll post those when they come in. The school has already hosted a fun carnival and family day at Cherry Hill, both which we've missed unfortunately. As soon as they get a swim therapist, Carter will be able to swim weekly as part of his goals. He's built up his strength again with his walker and wearing his braces. The teacher and class is new to him, but he seems to be doing pretty well. They also have a library visit every week and it's all sensory which is great. His IEP is end of this month, so I hope it goes well.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-syQFentmu6o/VhQxGO8jZ8I/AAAAAAAAAr0/tXuaV-q0aiI/s1600/11952863_10205858370353321_9199696319361843291_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="111" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-syQFentmu6o/VhQxGO8jZ8I/AAAAAAAAAr0/tXuaV-q0aiI/s200/11952863_10205858370353321_9199696319361843291_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JsEkO3qWyiE/VhRTD-V2VTI/AAAAAAAAAsk/52MWINFvcxM/s1600/11953203_10205878749462786_4230213936482138130_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JsEkO3qWyiE/VhRTD-V2VTI/AAAAAAAAAsk/52MWINFvcxM/s200/11953203_10205878749462786_4230213936482138130_n.jpg" width="111" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;">Carter saw his GI doctor in August for the year, and he was pleased with Carter's growth and health. We checked some labs to make sure his salt and other electrolytes are fine because all he takes is Pediasure still and water, but they were all normal. He is now completely off his seizure meds and has been seizure free for over 2 years. He has gone from 6 to 2 meds in totality, which is awesome.</span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;">We've had fun exploring our new home area up north. We went swimming at the Clearfield Rec Center which all the kids loved. We also went to the zoo a few times, soaking up that sunshine while we can.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kUOH5Hf94so/VhQxa9bOZrI/AAAAAAAAAr8/ik6GNqzTHYo/s1600/11707941_10205473743217883_469646846911402836_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="111" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kUOH5Hf94so/VhQxa9bOZrI/AAAAAAAAAr8/ik6GNqzTHYo/s200/11707941_10205473743217883_469646846911402836_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ia_HniD7qyY/VhQvv7e04tI/AAAAAAAAArQ/1bC5YVeI7pw/s1600/11947558_10205903371398319_999009745507461414_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ia_HniD7qyY/VhQvv7e04tI/AAAAAAAAArQ/1bC5YVeI7pw/s200/11947558_10205903371398319_999009745507461414_n.jpg" width="111" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cc0000;">Sierra started preschool at the Head Start in Clearfield, she is doing very well so far. She goes twice a week from 9:15-12:45. We are working on flash cards and learning her color/shapes, numbers, letters and more. She enjoys her teacher and being more independent. Her teacher visits us twice a month at home for an hour to work on things, and she also has monthly reading groups and father/daughter activities. During this little bit of free time, Keaton suddenly took off crawling on his own everywhere. He's also pulling up to kneel and getting into things like a normal kid should. It's nice to see him catching up. We've had several birthday parties lately and also a nice visit to Brighton and Silver Lake. It was a nice Sunday walk to go on.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2P-e70ZCem0/VhQwWugNX-I/AAAAAAAAArY/-pXg3_R9wWg/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2P-e70ZCem0/VhQwWugNX-I/AAAAAAAAArY/-pXg3_R9wWg/s200/FullSizeRender%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cc0000;">We had family pictures on my side for the 4th time in 6 1/2 years, because the family keeps growing so fast! Those pictures are on the right side of the blog. I was pretty pleased with them. We had some nice friends give us a special needs trike for Carter. He's about tall enough to do it on his own, and Sierra loves standing in the back of it. The grand kids got a kick out of it the other Sunday. The older ones took turns riding it and others around on the back of it, while others chased after it. It was like a mini gladiator race, lol.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IP0uzsThR9Y/VhQwyqwUwII/AAAAAAAAArk/sgVaBwWl7GU/s1600/12143226_10206131948352600_3961931979496987181_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IP0uzsThR9Y/VhQwyqwUwII/AAAAAAAAArk/sgVaBwWl7GU/s200/12143226_10206131948352600_3961931979496987181_n.jpg" width="111" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cc0000;">And this is just a nice photo of my dad with Carter, he loves him so much!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fb8jM5pUfqU/VhQw7uZvKmI/AAAAAAAAArs/umsaGJrnzcg/s1600/12052440_10207368062981524_5635155573475067146_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fb8jM5pUfqU/VhQw7uZvKmI/AAAAAAAAArs/umsaGJrnzcg/s200/12052440_10207368062981524_5635155573475067146_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cc0000;">Today, Carter had a dental visit at Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake. We had to check in at 7:15 to Same Day Surgery, and he went back about 8:40 to receive anaesthesia. They took xrays, properly cleaned his teeth, put sealants on, a spacer on one side and extracted a tooth on the other side. It all took around an hour, and when I went into recovery he was kind of waking up and pretty mad. Poor guy. I'm sure he has terrible memories of the place, and it's been awhile since he's been there for anything major. Once I got him home and fed and gave him Ibuprofen, he was a lot happier. I hope I can keep his teeth cleaner this time around, especially with several permanent teeth in now. They look so nice and clean now!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cc0000;">Just a shout out, a bit late, to my mom for losing 100 lbs+! She looks great and is so happy. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3RnG7XQvF-4/VhQ1lv8b3uI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/siKg4wN3O20/s1600/11813470_10205761020679640_1560549331566635393_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3RnG7XQvF-4/VhQ1lv8b3uI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/siKg4wN3O20/s200/11813470_10205761020679640_1560549331566635393_n.jpg" width="150" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cc0000;">What's Coming Up: IEP end of October, HALLOWEEN!, vision appointment...</span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7VCrQqfuiRE/VhRTP3VIkkI/AAAAAAAAAss/6xmu5MOuiig/s1600/12091412_10206133827319573_1482459914686199393_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="111" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7VCrQqfuiRE/VhRTP3VIkkI/AAAAAAAAAss/6xmu5MOuiig/s200/12091412_10206133827319573_1482459914686199393_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's Fall!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cc0000;">Last night, Carter's tooth spacer came out. Stinker! So now he has to go back in November to have a crown with a spacer attached to his tooth. The problem is he's so young but getting his adult teeth, and his mouth is so small. We'll have to watch his crowns real closely for the next several years to make sure they come in properly.</span></div>
Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-77321118363230645822015-08-11T09:39:00.000-07:002015-08-11T09:51:53.690-07:00Keaton is 1 & The Move<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #134f5c;">Keaton turned 1 on July 15th! We weren't sure when we were moving, so we did his party the weekend before at the Herriman Rosecrest Splash Park. We had cupcakes and lots of family and cousisn came to play with us. My brother in law took pictures of Keaton which turned out adorable. He has the greatest smile with all those teeth, and is definitely a Momma's boy. He loves his brother and sister and playing with toys. Carter and Keaton often want the same toy and will fight over it. Keaton is a picky eater but is doing well with whole milk now and loves to eat puffs. He loves to turn on his side to sleep and has to have his soft bunny or a blanket against his face to sleep. He was 20% for height and 70% for weight at his appointment. The shots are never easy for him, he takes a few days to recover. We love our Keaton Thomas!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #134f5c;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EJDItYJ2ODk/Vcoml70webI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/mRsgBsQn5-o/s1600/11693974_10205551950373013_805881617713273410_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EJDItYJ2ODk/Vcoml70webI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/mRsgBsQn5-o/s320/11693974_10205551950373013_805881617713273410_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #134f5c;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UvfdehDIGgU/VcommhrQDjI/AAAAAAAAAoY/9hD3JWLBen4/s1600/11695904_10205551959573243_7318786669229746074_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UvfdehDIGgU/VcommhrQDjI/AAAAAAAAAoY/9hD3JWLBen4/s320/11695904_10205551959573243_7318786669229746074_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #134f5c;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2YYdBowROt0/VcomN40LZzI/AAAAAAAAAoI/XHZFT8PeErM/s1600/11204871_10205688775633559_8155227987477020245_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2YYdBowROt0/VcomN40LZzI/AAAAAAAAAoI/XHZFT8PeErM/s320/11204871_10205688775633559_8155227987477020245_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vl5CMHzlks8/VcoiBHOOJ_I/AAAAAAAAAn0/bgdYFMLDbdw/s1600/11807686_10205718576738568_9165855031900604082_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vl5CMHzlks8/VcoiBHOOJ_I/AAAAAAAAAn0/bgdYFMLDbdw/s320/11807686_10205718576738568_9165855031900604082_o.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;">We finally got our first house a few weeks ago! We moved from West Jordan to Clinton, Utah which is about 45 minutes away. Getting the house was actually a very stressful experience with all the delays and last minute faxes and emails. We had to re-arrange our moving plans several times also, but we finally got it. Because of July 24th being a holiday, we had to move most our stuff in the garage until the house posted in our names, which ended up not happening until Tuesday instead of Monday. So we stayed with my in laws for a couple nights, then took up the beds, rest of our stuff and food on Tuesday evening. Our new ward helped us get our stuff into the house, so it was kind of like moving twice but so nice for all the help we got. The kids stayed through Wednesday with my in laws so Chris and I could try to un-pack. It's been two weeks today and we only have a few more boxes left to un-pack. The house was built in the 60's so it is an older home and we still have work to do. But we feel somewhat settled in and like it's starting to be home. My priority is always to get up the wreath, pictures and curtains. </span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #134f5c;">The kids each have their own room which is so nice. We also have a front room now and a family room, so we can keep the toys and TV in a separate room which is nice. I have my Grandmother's piano in my front room now and it's so nice to be able to play again. The house is a one level, over 1400 square feet. There is a one car detached garage and a good sized yard that's completely fenced in and has sprinklers. There are two nice trees in front and one apple tree in back. We have space for a garden behind the garage and a covered patio area and porch. We have just one neighbor, on our left is a storage unit which we don't mind. The house had an outlet for a gas dryer, so I've still been hanging clothes to dry on a clothesline until the electrician comes out. The kitchen also doesn't have a dishwasher, so I have a roll-away one that I use. Just a few differences. There is a crawl space under most the house that's about 4 feet tall for storage, and another fairly large storage closet which is nice. There is no hall closet for coats and stuff which is odd. I love the white siding, I'd like to do shutters in front on two of the windows with a matching star, and a porch swing. We also want to get a play set and trampoline for the backyard.</span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #134f5c;">Being homeowners is fun so far but busy. I was excited the first time Chris mowed the lawn and trimmed the trees. We have a Walmart and many other stores just a few blocks from us, so the location is nice. We're not too far from the freeway, but are now about 45 min-an hour from family. There's a Swig that just opened up, I want to try it:) We lived in the upstairs of my brother in law's house and we're so thankful to him and his wife for letting us stay there so long. It helped us stay close to family and was a great deal. Sierra has become so close to the Thorup side of the family now since she got to play with them and see them so often. This summer was kind of odd because I knew the move would take up a lot of our time. We didn't go to Lake Powell this year with my family because Chris didn't have anymore time off work from Disney Land, and we also missed a day to Lagoon and weekend trip to St. George because of packing and waiting for the house. So what's coming up? Carter starts Kindergarten at the Ogden USDB on the 31st, and Sierra will be starting preschool with Davis Head Start soon too. Keaton starts therapy back up today with his new therapists, so I hope he can start making some progress. He's had a rough time with the move I think, he's been fussier and waking up more at night. Carter sees GI tomorrow for his yearly appointment, and vision in November. Just two more weeks of horse therapy, then we're done. It's so far from us now we'll have to find something else for him to do. Anyway, bye for now!</span>Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-88498124952621222892015-06-09T12:48:00.000-07:002015-06-09T13:26:03.046-07:00Disneyland, Preschool, Horses & Appointment<span style="color: #783f04;">We were able to go to Disney Land in the middle of May, and had a great time. We went with my whole family except one of my sisters and her family, and Carter. After debating how he would do with the long drive and different sleep arrangements and lots of time in the wheelchair, we thought it best to leave him home with his Grandma. It ended up being a wise choice because Carter had a bad cold that entire week. We started to get it on our trip unfortunately, but I think we were too busy to notice. Sierra loved all the rides, she said more after each one. Ariel and It's a Small World were her favorites. We saw a couple parades and had lunch one of the days at Ariel's Grotto, where we saw several princesses. Sierra wore a different princess dress everyday and just ate it all up. By the third day she was getting tired and a little difficult, and the last day there she had a lot of meltdowns. Three is still really young to go. Keaton was such a trooper! He was so good in the stroller or our arms on the rides he could go on. There were only one or two things we weren't able to do because of time- Peter Pan was closed which is my favorite. It rained some two of the days there, thank goodness for ponchos. We stayed just three miles away in a house that had a pool. My parents gave us the master bedroom and bathroom since both kids slept in our room with us. It turned out surprisingly well. We drove Sunday (Mother's Day) to St. George to sleep overnight and break up the drive, then finished driving to California on Monday. Had a barbecue and swam and got ready for the next day. Tuesday was in Disney Land, Wednesday and Thursday in California Adventure and Friday in Disney Land. Saturday we skipped the beach and drove to St. George to stay overnight again, then Sunday came home.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t4B6ozijYRQ/VXc-P_XI_xI/AAAAAAAAAmY/5qU6QnJt_Zw/s1600/11148320_10153358075246108_1499357665209379107_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t4B6ozijYRQ/VXc-P_XI_xI/AAAAAAAAAmY/5qU6QnJt_Zw/s200/11148320_10153358075246108_1499357665209379107_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pu0eCMOVwq4/VXc-SRgGrXI/AAAAAAAAAmg/5-vziI9gLvY/s1600/10474609_10206370303958172_3677618688978691061_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pu0eCMOVwq4/VXc-SRgGrXI/AAAAAAAAAmg/5-vziI9gLvY/s200/10474609_10206370303958172_3677618688978691061_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6yjaL9JQLeU/VXc-ToIUOdI/AAAAAAAAAmo/067NUOyUWus/s1600/10520656_10153358000576108_240181618855506226_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6yjaL9JQLeU/VXc-ToIUOdI/AAAAAAAAAmo/067NUOyUWus/s200/10520656_10153358000576108_240181618855506226_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sgiHPDwQLeg/VXc-W5w1ypI/AAAAAAAAAmw/Q-OSkFks-fI/s1600/11115607_10153358002116108_2601995869970945586_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sgiHPDwQLeg/VXc-W5w1ypI/AAAAAAAAAmw/Q-OSkFks-fI/s200/11115607_10153358002116108_2601995869970945586_n.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9F8y7unYWZE/VXc-a0xVCMI/AAAAAAAAAm4/HbtKRhI-90o/s1600/10405312_10205785909059897_8505674021993360317_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9F8y7unYWZE/VXc-a0xVCMI/AAAAAAAAAm4/HbtKRhI-90o/s200/10405312_10205785909059897_8505674021993360317_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #783f04;">Upon returning home Carter seemed pretty sick, and got worse fast. I took him to the pediatrician and he had a bad double ear infection, eye infection and cold. He also threw up a few times. With eye drops and antibiotics he got better pretty quick. But soon I got really sick and Keaton too. Then Sierra threw up a few times and got an eye infection and sore throat. We were really sick for a couple weeks, even with antibiotics and eye drops. It was rough. Thankfully it was over Memorial weekend so Chris was home for four days to help. I felt like I had just caught up on laundry from our trip then we were so sick for so long. My sister brought banana bread, my sister in law dinner one night, my parents dinner twice and a get well basket, a cousin brought a basket of treats and toys, and my in laws brought multiple meals- it helps they live so close:) I'm so blessed to have such loving family. I hate seeing my kids sick, especially when there's only so much I can do. Keaton ended up so dehydrated from his sore throat and ear infection that he had to get fluids at Primary Children's. Little Keaton has had 3 ear infections in 2 or so months, so he is probably going to get tubes in his ears. Poor guy inherited my ear problems. His physical therapist moved, so he'll be getting a new one.</span><br />
<span style="color: #783f04;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #783f04;">Carter had his last day of preschool last Thursday. My mom and I went to his classroom with the kids to see his yearbook and talk to the teachers. He was playing in pudding and got it everywhere! But he loved it. It was so nice how much they all liked him and talked about him. They suggested some summer activities and we shared resources with the other parents. Carter is loaning a push walker over the summer to help him keep up on his walking. He got a glow stick, cotton candy and bouncy ball to take him. One of the high school students who had worked with him all year also bought him a birthday gift. So nice! His teacher is moving on so he'll once again have a new teacher next year. She predicted he'll be ready to mainstream soon, so we'll see. We have been house hunting online and this Friday we start our official search. Crossing my fingers and toes we stay close to family, but we'll see.</span><br />
<span style="color: #783f04;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #783f04;">Carter was able to start back up with horse therapy. Chris took him and he loved it so much he cried when he had to leave. He was able to wear a helmet just fine this time. Our parents and one anonymous donation helped us to get him going again. They were surprised how big he is, it's been a few years I think. Chris also celebrated his 29th birthday on Sunday. We also had South Jordan Days, we had a parade and went swimming. Then my sister's new baby boy was blessed. 11 grandchildren now for my parents, crazy. Carter had another yearly appointment today at Shriner's. I got to take all three kids with me, yay (sarcastic). I can't do a stroller and wheelchair, so when I'm with all three I have to do a wagon. It was tricky but it worked. He had x rays of his hips and spine since last year it was curved a little. His orthopaedic doctor said it was orthopaedically perfect. Because he's walking and climbing things now, his spine is straight and hips where they should be. I'm so glad! Oh, Carter also lost his third and fourth tooth within days of each other. He looks a bit homeless now:)</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #783f04;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LXNuUE2MC8w/VXdCaIN-kEI/AAAAAAAAAnY/WVvD4iUHq_U/s1600/11393024_10205130039345501_1475813698174056453_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LXNuUE2MC8w/VXdCaIN-kEI/AAAAAAAAAnY/WVvD4iUHq_U/s200/11393024_10205130039345501_1475813698174056453_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #783f04;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V-52de_orjI/VXdCR9clF2I/AAAAAAAAAnQ/0zv96lxrw1s/s1600/11054335_10205095824890161_5597776197388970510_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V-52de_orjI/VXdCR9clF2I/AAAAAAAAAnQ/0zv96lxrw1s/s200/11054335_10205095824890161_5597776197388970510_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #783f04;">What's next? Well, getting through the summer:) with horse therapy every week and house hunting vigorously. Then getting Sierra ready to start preschool and Carter Kindergarten. We'll still be working on therapy with Keaton. I love my kids and their different personalities and needs, they challenge me to be a better person. More loving, kind and patient. Until next time, adieu!</span></div>
Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-73223251038063213112015-05-04T10:14:00.001-07:002015-05-04T10:14:29.852-07:00Resources & Updates<span style="color: #38761d;">Carter had his yearly appointment with Dr. Nancy Murphy, his comprehensive care doctor. She was a bit surprised when he yanked her hair hard, which I was just about to explain to her he does. She doesn't think he has a mean bone in his body, but she was surprised that he wouldn't let go even when asked to. Stinker. He's 75% in height and weight so doing well, he has chunked up a bit. She was pleased with what he is doing and didn't need to make any changes. I spoke with the social worker for some resources for the summer, which I'm still looking into. Carter is registered to do horse therapy this summer, once a week. That will be fun for him to do again. I also just applied for HopeKids <a href="http://www.hopekids.org/">http://www.hopekids.org/</a> who I was told do monthly movies for the family as well as other activities, </span><span style="color: #38761d;">and Push To The Finish <a href="http://www.pushtothefinish.org/">http://www.pushtothefinish.org/</a> where they race with your child in their wheelchair. I think Carter would love that since he loves going fast, and it's cool because it's like they are racing even though they can't physically run. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Carter was able to get a family zoo pass through Angel Hands this weekend, who also sponsors his baseball games. This month we have a meeting with Wasatch Adaptive Sports <a href="http://www.wasatchadaptivesports.org/">http://www.wasatchadaptivesports.org</a> Carter will be able to bike this summer and ski this winter in Snowbird with the family. I'm excited for these cool new activities we get to try together. It's so nice too that they involve the family. It's hard to do things all together since all my kids have different abilities. I'm also looking into Camp Roger and CAST which is Catch a Special Thrill. It's a fishing day for special needs kids and their parents. I also heard that the Salt Lake County Parks & Recreation department has a lot of things for kids with intellectual and/or physical disabilities. I love finding out new things and resources for Carter to get involved in.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AEKeNtJW9dI/VUeoFQn5n4I/AAAAAAAAAlg/ATX-_PHUn74/s1600/DSCN4135%5B2%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AEKeNtJW9dI/VUeoFQn5n4I/AAAAAAAAAlg/ATX-_PHUn74/s320/DSCN4135%5B2%5D.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Update on Keaton: Keaton had his 9 month appointment and he is 30% for weight and 50% for height. Not as heavy as I thought he was. We are doing a swallow study in a few weeks because he gags on his solids. He also doesn't like people food or putting things in his mouth much. I just want to make sure he isn't aspirating and he may possibly need OT to help with feeding. It's interesting the path Keaton has taken, some of it very similar to Carter's. They both wore helmets, both had physical therapy and swallow studies. I'm not saying I think Keaton has a diagnosis or anything, it's just interesting. I think it is also personality, because both boys are good natured and laid back. We need to get Keaton motivated to move so Carter can't keep attacking him. Keaton is a good baby, sweet and happy. He still wakes up once at night and fights naps, but otherwise has the cutest bluest eyes and sweetest smile. He has been a real sweet addition to the family.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NB091iHFssw/VUeoUyPiPdI/AAAAAAAAAlo/wfljlcadYEM/s1600/DSCN4047%5B2%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NB091iHFssw/VUeoUyPiPdI/AAAAAAAAAlo/wfljlcadYEM/s320/DSCN4047%5B2%5D.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Update on Sierra: Sierra had her 3 year appointment following her My Little Pony party over the weekend. She is 80-85% for height and weight. I knew she was tall because she wears a lot of 4T dresses and pants. She is pretty close to being potty trained and is talking more. She loves apple juice and chocolate milk and dancing to music and wearing pretty clothes and shoes. She loves to imitate people or things and when people ask her name she now says 'I Elsa'. Lol. She kisses Keaton a lot and calls him 'cute baby' and gives her brothers toys when they cry or are sad. She loves to swing and jump on the trampoline. She is full of life and so pretty and funny.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MOmFvb4ZENI/VUeoeSf7UhI/AAAAAAAAAlw/O2_6cL-33WM/s1600/DSCN4036%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MOmFvb4ZENI/VUeoeSf7UhI/AAAAAAAAAlw/O2_6cL-33WM/s320/DSCN4036%5B1%5D.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Carter's last day of school is June 4th, his preschool graduation. We also have Disney Land next week. We are still house hunting but no luck yet. This weather has been beautiful and fun to be out in.</span>Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-87859065076649757472015-04-18T14:46:00.001-07:002015-04-18T14:46:24.386-07:00Over my Head<span style="color: #351c75;">So lately I seem to be reading a lot of blogs written by moms and dads alike, about the daily struggles of parenthood. I wish I was a better writer but a lot of things they said were exactly how I felt. I've struggled sharing my thoughts because I'm afraid people will look down on me, judge me, or even question why I'm a mother. In fact, I've even had someone tell me that maybe I shouldn't be a Mom. Imagine the nerve. I am pretty open about sharing a lot of my feelings, the good and the bad. It seems like people don't always want to read the bad. Like they just want to see those great family pictures and family vacations, etc. But what about the day to day things? I like to see people post a little of everything: their meals, vacations, kids going to school, kids games, rough days, tired days...it means they're human like me. I think some people like to just display their good side to the world. And keep the hard or ugly things hidden. Some things truly are tmi (too much information) or private, I get that. But for a mom, a stay-at-home Mom...it kind of helps to know others are roughing it too. That some days they can't wait for their kids to go to bed, that they are struggling to discipline their child, that their child had a major meltdown in the store...it's normal. Refreshingly so.</span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #351c75;">Before I was a Mom I probably would have scanned over those posts. But now...I DEVOUR them. I breathe them in. It gives me a sigh of relief. Thank you to those moms for sharing your hard times too. I can't thank you enough. On the days when I don't know how to explain my feelings, you say it just right for me. You get it. You understand. I admire moms and dads whether they work or not, whether they have one kid or ten, or whether their house is clean or not. I have learned to keep an open mind and to really try hard not to judge. I don't know their situation. I will be kind. I am not perfect, but that is my goal. So when I see the others people in the grocery store wince at me when my kid is whining and I'm ignoring them...you get it. Right? Because sometimes, you are so tired and just need to get in and out of the store. You just need a few things. And please, heaven forbid, your children will behave so you can get out. But no, sometimes they do freak out and sometimes you do have all three kids and one of them is handicapped so you are trying to manage them in one cart or maybe a double stroller while your toddler is running off. And you get those looks and winces. Sometimes I want to snap at those people, but I'm learning they either forgot what it's like or they don't know what it's like.</span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #351c75;">Every once in awhile someone very nice, who understands, will lend a hand or give a smile. That is ENORMOUS in my world. Thank you! To the moms out there in the stores with screaming kids, possibly without shoes...I get it. I do not judge. I smile and wish I could help, but my own hands and legs are already taken up. When I see that mom in church looking exhausted and annoyed with her kids, I get it. When I see the mom looking put together and serene and her kids well behaved I think, good for you. You are lucky. Maybe she is one of those that really is just that good at her job, or maybe her kids really are just that good. Who knows. I try not to envy her, but I do relate more to the moms not so put together. I relate to the moms with pony tails, tired faces and excitable kids. I especially relate to the moms I see with handicapped children. It is another level of multi tasking and backbreaking work, literally, if you have to carry them.</span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #351c75;">I used to have high expectations of myself as a mother. That I would stay in shape, have a nice home, well behaved and smart kids and a happy life. Problems? Nah, no problems. I don't even think I wanted that many children because I knew, even then, it must be a lot of work. So the first kid came and what, it was a boy and he ended up with a diagnosis and early intervention and multiple appointments. What? This already wasn't cracked up to what I was hoping for. Then a beautiful, smart and typically developing girl. Then the gamble, a third kid. A beautiful, big and happy baby boy. He ended up needing a helmet and therapy too, and being a bit behind developmentally, but he was my sunshine. My kids are still little; 5, almost 3 and 9 months. I am in the thick of it. My 5 year old acts like a baby to a 3 year old, depending on the skill. My almost 3 year old threw us for a loop when she went through the terrible two's. This I have understood. They will get older, they will progress, they will be able to do more for themself (except my oldest in some ways), but there will always be problems. Maybe money problems, maybe a job loss...who knows.</span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #351c75;">We have been through many shocks and challenges in our 5 years of being parents. I have learned it is very hard, exhausting work. I know I am in the thick of it. So it is hard for me to see the finish line, or easier times. I am often tired, even irritable and overwhelmed. I am a perfectionist in some things and others not so much. I have my weaknesses and my strengths. I share my feelings in the hopes I can help others. When I say it is hard, it doesn't mean I don't love being a Mom. Because there are those moments that almost break your heart. When your toddler hugs you and says "I love you Mommy" and your baby goos and smiles at you and your handicapped son hugs you and his eyes say he loves you even as he is pulling your hair so hard for the millionth time...amidst the same day to day routine, the piles of noisy toys, the same shows for the hundredth time...I manage to find something great each day, sometimes a few things. And even if I only get a little bit of alone time, I pray it is enough, because I have to clean, then sleep soon to start a whole new day again. Do I dread it? Oh yes, I do. A lot. And I get discouraged at the messes and the things I'm trying to work with my kids on and they don't seem to be getting it. So much to worry about and so little time.</span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #351c75;">But this I know- my three children are a beautiful, amazing gift from God. He has entrusted them to me. I will never be this loved or needed in my life. This touched. Sometimes it is too much to take, but I take a deep breath and embrace it. Instead of being on my phone I try to look at my kids in the eye to let them know I am present. I love them. So much. I never knew I could feel so much at once. It's insane. I never knew how hard or fun it could be. I never knew that someone saying 'enjoy every moment' would make me want to pull their hair. But I am so grateful that I get to stay at home with them, to see all those milestones and special moments. To take pictures and play with them. To teach them. I try to take the good over the bad and appreciate what I have. But I'm not perfect. I'm still trying. To the mom reading this also trying to take a deep breath and forge on, I get it. Four hours to bedtime. You can do it. I can do it. Don't be so hard on yourself. Sometimes you just have to give what you can and ask God to do the rest.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rU_wFSfdXZc/VTLPqcu2NRI/AAAAAAAAAlM/BAl1rGRmceM/s1600/80d0e6423ab4a45b33a6579d1461a4ae.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rU_wFSfdXZc/VTLPqcu2NRI/AAAAAAAAAlM/BAl1rGRmceM/s1600/80d0e6423ab4a45b33a6579d1461a4ae.jpg" height="320" width="243" /></a></span></div>
Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-12989344775363721422015-03-17T13:14:00.000-07:002015-03-18T06:42:32.242-07:00Deseret News and Update!<span style="color: #6aa84f;">In January the Utah Symphony and Opera hosted an event just for special needs kids and their families. It was at the Capitol Theatre for about 45 minutes, and Chris and I went on a date with Carter there. He originally sat in his wheelchair by us, then we moved him to a seat next to me. He loved how it rocked and seemed to enjoy some of the music. The rest of the time he kept spinning in his seat. It was neat to go to an event where we didn't have to worry about how loud Carter was, because many kids there were doing the same.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">The Opportunity Foundation of America: Eagle Eyes hosted a Wheels on Ice event at the Cottonwood Heights Recreation Center. I was excited to go take Carter ice skating in his wheelchair because I know he likes speed and even better, it gave us some alone time. We were joined by other Eagle Eyes workers, the mayor, Olympus High students that volunteer at several schools and other kids with their families. I haven't been skating in forever and it was tiring, but Carter loved it. He just wanted to go faster and faster. He kept waving his arms and smiling. The mayor Kelvyn Cullimore Jr. offered to help take turns going with Carter. Several of the volunteer students knew Carter and introduced themselves. It was nice to meet people that love and work with him too. I noticed people taking pictures and as we'd signed a waiver already, Deseret News asked us after for our names and Carter's diagnosis. Surprise, we were in the Deseret News paper on Sunday! Here are some pictures from the event. After it was over he literally cried for an hour straight, he was so sad to stop.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mxArY_6Z6fU/VQiGTYnCBrI/AAAAAAAAAkc/1a7Zq7vUUDE/s1600/1499100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mxArY_6Z6fU/VQiGTYnCBrI/AAAAAAAAAkc/1a7Zq7vUUDE/s1600/1499100.jpg" height="200" width="132" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sdb8-QM8PBQ/VQiGU-NwtrI/AAAAAAAAAkk/Z5v25cVa23I/s1600/1499102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sdb8-QM8PBQ/VQiGU-NwtrI/AAAAAAAAAkk/Z5v25cVa23I/s1600/1499102.jpg" height="200" width="111" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Another neat thing for Carter to participate in, is the Miracle League baseball at the Gene Fullmer Recreation Center in West Jordan, close to where we live, hosted by Angel Hands. He will get to play with assistance, and I think it's awesome that there are things like this out there. We haven't done this before, so I'm excited. I also am trying to raise funds to help us put Carter back in horse therapy this summer when school is out. Insurance doesn't cover it or respite, which ended in January anyway, and it is expensive. We are starting to look for a house or condo, so lots of big changes coming our way. We also have Disney Land in May to look forward to. It's crazy how fast time goes. Chris is busy working and going to school, working hard for us. Sierra is potty training and doing pretty well. We are also looking to get her into preschool this fall, and dance next spring. She turns 3 next month! Keaton is 8 months old and sitting up, and getting six teeth. Poor guy. He's had a few sicknesses and ear infections, so hopefully his luck will get better here soon. He is done with his helmet but needs Early Intervention because his gross motor is slightly behind. He won't stand or bear weight on his feet, like Carter used to do, so we will do physical therapy twice a month at home. While I was disappointed, I realized I at least have the experience to help him.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">1p36 Deletion Syndrome & Awareness is having their annual conference in July in Florida. We've never been able to go because of funds or having babies, and they are taking applications for a grant to go. I hope we will be able to go with Carter and meet people. We'll see. We celebrated our 6th wedding anniversary in February, and I just recently cut a lot of my hair off. It's nice to have a change. On Feb 2 Chris lost his step grandpa and we attended his funeral in Idaho. Carter has a 3rd loose tooth and molars coming in. He is climbing stairs and onto couches and people, anything really. He loves to swing or go outside. He is doing so well walking with assistance, better than with his gait trainer in fact. His school therapist is going to look at something different for him to use. He got new daffo's (braces) and had a parent/teacher meeting. Carter is making great progress in all his goals. His teacher described him as such: 'loves to be the center of attention, a rebel. Has to be reminded to not grab peer's hair. He escapes at any opportunity.' That's my boy.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Carter can find his name when given two choices in big font. Carter can match ten objects with their picture, he will pat his play sign when he wants a toy but a lot of times will just go get it himself, he is better at taking turns and sharing, he is getting good at stacking and doing puzzles if you almost line the pieces for him, he is still working on using two hands to do an activity. He is obviously doing great at scooting fast and walking if you help him. I am so pleased with how he is doing. I love hearing his teacher talk about him glowingly. Life is almost always busy with three kids and daddy in school, but I'm trying my best to keep up:) and provide all the needs for my kids. I am thankful for everything I have and for our health. We got a new nephew last week named Colin, so that makes 11 grandkids on my side- 6 boys, 5 girls. I love seeing families grow!</span></div>
Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-15313932360783912462015-01-03T10:20:00.000-08:002015-01-08T07:21:23.974-08:002014 in Review<span style="color: #38761d;">I noticed a lot of people have been writing about their 2014 year, so I thought I'd so the same! 2014 was a good year for us, pretty healthy and no hospital stays! That is a huge plus for us. We had our share of colds but nothing serious. In January I turned 28 and Chris started school at DATC (Davis Applied Technology Center) in Kaysville. He is in a machinist certification program that will take around 2 years to complete. Chris works in this area so he already had several years experience and was interested in it. This is an intense and pretty hard program. We also sold our Subaru that was having lots of issues and bought a Kia Spectra 5 for the gas mileage for Chris.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">In February we had Valentine's Day of course and then celebrated our 5 year anniversary on February 27th. Chris and I were able to go to Zions and stay in St. George for three or so days in my parents' second home. It was so nice to be able to get away for longer, although I sure missed the kids! I was over four months pregnant at this time so we weren't able to zip line like we wanted to.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DyfpH-uzkCQ/VKgsoE91mTI/AAAAAAAAAis/JBKGpWPBjVc/s1600/DSCN2182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DyfpH-uzkCQ/VKgsoE91mTI/AAAAAAAAAis/JBKGpWPBjVc/s1600/DSCN2182.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;">We had Easter which was fun because the kids got to attend several egg hunts and got new outfits. Then it was Sierra's 2nd birthday! We did a Minnie Mouse party.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MBrTbMeT668/VKgtOnCQd6I/AAAAAAAAAi8/UyGRLgk38jQ/s1600/DSCN2315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MBrTbMeT668/VKgtOnCQd6I/AAAAAAAAAi8/UyGRLgk38jQ/s1600/DSCN2315.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9QjlStYmJBI/VKgs8wpw69I/AAAAAAAAAi0/w-sgfEAYHSk/s1600/10258795_622822411105017_6942081054093069880_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9QjlStYmJBI/VKgs8wpw69I/AAAAAAAAAi0/w-sgfEAYHSk/s1600/10258795_622822411105017_6942081054093069880_o.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;">In May Carter had a sleep study and we found out he no longer needed his bi pap to sleep or oxygen, so that was great news! I also helped drive my sisters in law home from middle school a few days a week. In June Chris turned 28, Carter went on summer break and did some annual appointments: Shriner's for orthopedics, the dentist, and Neurology. Carter was able to get a one time respite fund from DSPD (Division of Services for People with Disabilities) so we got him an aide through RISE, named Brenda. I was nervous at first how this would work out, but she was great! She took him 4 days a week for six hours to give me a break. By this time I was big pregnant and really struggling carrying him. In fact, the last month of preschool I had family help get him in and out of his wheelchair for school and my mother in law helped get him into bed at night as well. She was amazing!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w6FcMbRiK2o/VKgt50AHZSI/AAAAAAAAAjI/xSvbJ_jmgSc/s1600/10427285_10203124601410806_634574944004267523_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w6FcMbRiK2o/VKgt50AHZSI/AAAAAAAAAjI/xSvbJ_jmgSc/s1600/10427285_10203124601410806_634574944004267523_n.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;">End of June my parents threw their annual Family Reunion/South Jordan Days. We went to the fair, saw a parade and went swimming. In July, Chris finished his class so he could be home with me for the baby. My parents were going to pay for our air fare to go to the annual 1p36 Deletion Syndrome & Awareness Conference, but I couldn't go because of the baby. My mom had surgery during this time and was recovering. I was induced the night before I was 39 weeks, since nothing was happening to put me into labor. In fact, Keaton was breeched for a bit but luckily turned. I ended up being in labor for 22 hours before having him. Don't worry, I had an epidural! It was a long, frustrating process but everything worked out well and he was big! Keaton Thomas Thorup was born at 6:33 pm on July 15th at 9 lbs 7 oz and 21.5 inches long. He had a light red hair and was so cute and chunky! </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r-89ImsJ60E/VKgu8vxkKyI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/y2jB1Stn0jU/s1600/DSCN2460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r-89ImsJ60E/VKgu8vxkKyI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/y2jB1Stn0jU/s1600/DSCN2460.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;">Chris was able to be home for two weeks from work. Adjusting to 3 kids is still in progress! Keaton is a super sweet boy and calm and happy. We got lucky! Carter's aide came back until the end of the summer when Carter started school back up. He got a new teacher, shorter school day, new bus driver and a new school building with lots more room. We took the kids to the zoo, the Aquarium and Wheeler Farm since we weren't able to do Lake Powell this year. We got a new nephew named Kayson end of September, and that's about when we blessed Keaton. Carter had his annual eye appointment and GI. I had my own 10 year high school reunion with some close friends, mostly Heather's:) at Olive Garden.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dd8YNzYsy4g/VKgvqgRLiZI/AAAAAAAAAjY/m9WLEJj6OVg/s1600/1622301_10204437367315750_2365476978450373264_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dd8YNzYsy4g/VKgvqgRLiZI/AAAAAAAAAjY/m9WLEJj6OVg/s1600/1622301_10204437367315750_2365476978450373264_o.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #38761d;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">In October my brother proposed to his fiancee Nichole- I already blogged about that with a link to the YouTube video. Over 10,000 views now! It was also on Fox 13 News. Halloween was fun, we had a ward trunk-or-treat and made Carter a tractor/train.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ozFKiRqFp7M/VKgwd256v4I/AAAAAAAAAjo/OosIij1ZiwI/s1600/DSCN2873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ozFKiRqFp7M/VKgwd256v4I/AAAAAAAAAjo/OosIij1ZiwI/s1600/DSCN2873.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wrYIrJ-qW_4/VKgwEGMD-SI/AAAAAAAAAjg/1SMx_3q5tdo/s1600/10516831_10152786180263910_4242268033163773937_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wrYIrJ-qW_4/VKgwEGMD-SI/AAAAAAAAAjg/1SMx_3q5tdo/s1600/10516831_10152786180263910_4242268033163773937_n.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;">In November we got another new nephew, Michael Logan. We also had Thanksgiving at my parents which was nice and then had family pictures on both sides. The one was a Christmas surprise for my family with all the grand kids, and the other was family pictures with the Thorup side. The pics are on the right sidebar if you want to see them.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;">In December Carter turned 5, although we didn't throw a party this year he still got visits and presents. Then on December 13th Parker and Nichole got married- all 5 siblings are married now! Then we had Christmas, which was wonderful.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KAuSAHTzQ2A/VKgxSD6DzJI/AAAAAAAAAjw/LvJcu7wUCgA/s1600/DSCN2941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KAuSAHTzQ2A/VKgxSD6DzJI/AAAAAAAAAjw/LvJcu7wUCgA/s1600/DSCN2941.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;">It was a good year, busy and full of fun activities: showers, parties, Sunday dinners, baby blessings, swimming, new baby, appointments, visiting Grandma & friends etc. Carter is in school and doing great. He had his aide again for 4 days over Christmas break. He lost his 2 bottom teeth and grew his adult ones and got a Kid walk this year. He can stand for 30 seconds or so at a surface with no support. He went from 5 meds to just three. Only 1 seizure in the entire year. He is growing well and got new nighttime diapers which helps:) We had to have his wheelchair adjusted and get new daffo's because he is growing so big. He is 75% in height and weight. Sierra is 2 1/2 and so busy and smart but also a challenge at times. She loves juice, babies, playing, her blankie, watching Curious George or My Little Pony, and visiting Grandma. Keaton is now 5 1/2 months and has a helmet to help shape his head. He can roll and tries to sit up. This new year Chris is back in school, we will be moving and going to Disney Land in May. Something always has to change:) Looking back at this year I can tell how the Lord has blessed us and been mindful of my needs and wants. I have tried harder at keeping and strengthening family relationships. Happy New Year!!</span></div>
Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-75131752806514826112014-11-13T14:52:00.002-08:002014-11-13T14:52:28.147-08:00IEP<span style="color: #38761d;">Carter's IEP was last Friday and I dread and anticipate these meetings. I was excited to hear how he does and if he could stay at USDB. At his last meeting they reminded me it's the goal and law to continue their education in the least restricted environment possible. But of course, whatever is best for the child. This meeting was much smaller as his speech and physical therapist were not present. The director is new as well so I got to meet her. We discussed Carter and compared him from last year with his goals. His physical therapist usually sets a goal to improve by 5% and he did by 12%. She left notes about how well he is doing in his walker and is using a more appropriate crawl at times. She said if Carter receives help with getting up from his knees to standing, that he can stand for over 30 seconds at a table or surface. It's amazing how far he has come in strength. Then we discussed her new goals for him in the next year. Then the speech therapist phoned in and talked with us about him and her goals for him. Based on a questionnaire Carter would do best learning print instead of braille, so she wants to use pictures to communicate with him. They tried a communication device that also talks but he didn't seem to like that. She said they will start using pecs, a communication system, with up to 10 pictures so he can come up and pick what he wants from the pictures. The idea is to work up from there to more pictures or to where he can pick it out himself without prompts.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 23px;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;">The PECS Approach</span></span><br />
<ul style="background: 0px 0px rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 25px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 17px 1em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<li style="background: 0px 0px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 8px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;">In Phase one, the trainer (therapist/me) works with the learner and their caregivers to figure out what might be most motivating to that individual learner (a ball, toy, food, etc.). Cards are created that picture that motivating item, and a pair of trainers helps the learner discover that, by handing over the card, they can get the desired object.</span></li>
<li style="background: 0px 0px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 8px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;">In Phase two, the trainer moves farther away from the learner, so that the learner must actually come over to the trainer and hand over the card. This is a life skill lesson in seeking and obtaining another person's attention.</span></li>
<li style="background: 0px 0px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 8px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;">Phase three requires the learner to discriminate among multiple pictures when requesting an item. For some learners this is easy, for others it's tougher. Some learners learn best with photos, and others with graphic images that approximate the appearance of an object.</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 25px;">His speech therapist seemed very pleased and surprised with how social and engaging Carter has become over the last year. He comes up to you immediately and engages with eye contact, touch and noises. You can tell by his facial features that he is usually excited to interact. She couldn't believe how much he has changed. His teacher Athena is new, she's had him just since school started end of August. Her background is in vision and she said she considers Carter's vision to be a strength now instead of a weakness, which is her goal. She went over her goals for him which include vision/compensatory, cognitive/social and communication. One of her goals is to get him to recognize his own name in print, which is a good thing to learn for Kindergarten. His OT works on his fine motor and he discussed how his grip strength is better. He is going to work with Carter on stacking objects, simple puzzles and taking things in and out. He still needs help with that.</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 25px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 25px;">It was a consensus that Carter continue attending USDB, but his teacher said she thinks he'll be ready to move on fairly soon. I don't know when that means. She said he hates art and as soon as he sees the picture that it's time for art, he'll try to take off. So funny! He struggles having to sit there and attend to something when he doesn't want to. She said he gripes less but still doesn't like it at all. As soon as the classroom door is open he tries to take off (he does this at home) and one day she decided to let him 'escape' and followed him. He went into the boy's bathroom and was making noises because it echoed. Funny. He is always going in our bathroom at home and I wondered why. He loves his classmates especially Emma. He gets sad when she is gone. The teacher has noticed them actually play together, which is another one of his goals to play more with his peers now that he is interacting so much more. He even lays by them when he's tired or not feeling well. She has him walk distances in the walker, like to the gym or front office. He loves when the high school students visit twice a week. They also cook something once a week and he loves to help mix she said. Even though most the kids can't eat, they still play with food for sensory play.</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 25px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 25px;">I enjoyed hearing her comments about him and how well he has improved. I am so grateful he can attend school there with trained professionals in a smaller classroom, in a huge room where he can move around and play. He is growing so much, although to the casual observer perhaps not so much in the sense of walking. But he is getting there, he is building strength. If you hold his hands he will take steps. I'm so pleased with Carter and I love that he enjoys going to school. Heaven knows I need the help and don't have the time to help in all the areas that he needs. He had picture day this week so pictures will be forthcoming.</span></span></div>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-67696524620535550732014-10-23T13:11:00.000-07:002014-10-23T13:14:24.525-07:00Update<span style="color: #38761d;">Carter saw the eye doctor and he said his vision is well enough that he doesn't need glasses. He still is visually inattentive and possibly has cortical visual impairment. This should help with his IEP which is in a few weeks. I want him to stay at USDB for Kindergarten if he can. He also saw GI and he's in the 60-70% for height and weight, can't remember exactly. But his BMI is almost perfect the dietitian said. So, I guess we're doing something right:) Carter has school pictures coming up in November, I like to see how they turn out. Halloween is also coming, and we are hoping to turn Carter's wheelchair into Thomas the Train. Pics will be posted of course.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Keaton is 3 months old and loves to try sitting up. He loves starting at ceiling fans, his siblings, and being kissed. He still only naps in his swing, if I get him to anywhere else it isn't for very long. He still wakes up 1-2 times at night. He had an ultrasound done on his abdomen because when I was pregnant the ultrasound showed white calcifications. They thought perhaps a gall stone and told me to follow up when he was born. He had to fast for four hours which was hard because he eats every 2-3 during the day. Well, it went well and nothing was seen. I have noticed for a few weeks now that his head is flat on one side, because he favors it. I tried laying him on the other side or when he was asleep turning his head the other way. Apparently it wasn't enough, because the craniofacial doctor said he needs a helmet at 4 months old. He said they wouldn't normally say yes at 3 months of age but he was an 11 so over the norm according to measurements. His forehead is bigger on one side so it makes his ears uneven. I'm very bummed about this because it will be right during the holidays. Carter did fine with his, so hopefully Keaton will too.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Sierra is 2 1/2 and so busy! She is talking more and putting two to three words together easy. She loves to say "thank you, you're welcome" and "what you doing". She loves apples, strawberries, milk, tortillas, chicken, rice and green beans. We are reading her potty books still and she loves sitting on hers. But she is still very wet during naps and at night, and doesn't help with dressing or un-dressing, so I'm waiting a little still. I think her naps are ending soon, because there are days she doesn't take them and just plays in her room. Part of me is very sad for that, but it means Keaton will be able to nap in the crib soon (I hope). We are planning on putting Keaton in Sierra's room in the next few weeks. She is a good sleeper so I just hope they both do fine with it. I haven't had my kids share a room before. My kids are early risers and Daylight Savings is coming. Not excited about that.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">We blessed Keaton on Sun, September 28th with family and friends. He was a good boy and it was a nice day.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zcOAy3e5vG8/VElhjulNlkI/AAAAAAAAAhc/LTheLjp_6Mc/s1600/DSCN2717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zcOAy3e5vG8/VElhjulNlkI/AAAAAAAAAhc/LTheLjp_6Mc/s1600/DSCN2717.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QrTu2ovFkJw/VElhNk4nwqI/AAAAAAAAAhU/6-9nxJV8Qko/s1600/10407682_10203349110423391_7783009417454332032_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QrTu2ovFkJw/VElhNk4nwqI/AAAAAAAAAhU/6-9nxJV8Qko/s1600/10407682_10203349110423391_7783009417454332032_n.jpg" height="294" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Life is busy and stressful and hard and fun as a Mom of three. Some days I think I'm doing it right, others I think I'm messing it all up. We went to Wheeler Farm last week and had some fun.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bLEAkYH1kwc/VElf5bJB93I/AAAAAAAAAhA/Au64A_lcwMo/s1600/DSCN2825.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bLEAkYH1kwc/VElf5bJB93I/AAAAAAAAAhA/Au64A_lcwMo/s1600/DSCN2825.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;">My brother proposed to his fiancee by putting together a lip dub with family and friends. We practiced for about a month, kept it a secret and came together on Sat, Oct 18th to do it. Fox 13 News was there and it's now on YouTube as well. It was a fun experience, there was three mascots there.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s9ZJBhf-JHU/VElgVJS1xSI/AAAAAAAAAhI/ZYkNrMhwpF0/s1600/10687460_998356796856690_3291071821471522044_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s9ZJBhf-JHU/VElgVJS1xSI/AAAAAAAAAhI/ZYkNrMhwpF0/s1600/10687460_998356796856690_3291071821471522044_o.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbtT3GM-dzY">Parker's Lip Dub Proposal</a></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Fall is in the air and change is as ever present. My new mantra is THIS TOO SHALL PASS.</span>Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-76213565571501464072014-09-06T14:15:00.000-07:002014-09-07T09:45:20.681-07:00Back to School!<span style="color: #741b47;">Carter started his last few months of preschool up again last Wednesday at Utah School for the Deaf and Blind (USDB). This is his second year and there are a lot of changes for him His teacher is new, his school is in a new building (much bigger and further east), he has a new driver and the time has changed. When I heard that his teacher changed I was very sad because we loved her. I haven't had the chance to meet the new one yet since we were informed just days before school started. I hear his classroom is much bigger so he has more room to explore, which is good. His driver Kent is really nice and he still goes in his wheelchair back and forth. He is picked up at 7:55 and dropped off now at 3-3:10. It used to be 7:15 and then around 4, so it's shorter by like two hours now. They feed him only once now instead of twice, so that kind of threw me off for the first while. Their theme for the month is back to school peanut butter & jelly, so they have been playing with it and making stuff too. Since Carter can't eat he just plays with it. They still have music time and therapy, which it sounds like he has been kind of ornery with. He has seen his old teacher and she said he recognized her and wanted to go with her, which is sad. Poor guy. I don't know that he understands why people aren't there anymore, like Brenda, who was with him all summer but is now gone. We still keep in touch via email.</span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #741b47;">The first two days of school Carter had a meltdown after getting home. Not sure why but he hasn't done it again. We noticed a couple of weeks ago that he was shaking a lot and seemed scared of some of his toys. He got a really scared look on his face when his bear started singing. That was unusual, so we tested his glucose to see if it was low but it was fine. Then about a week later, he woke up one night crying and moaning very strangely, a sound I hadn't heard in awhile. When he used to have seizures he would sometimes make that sound like he was scared of something and he would shake. He was doing that but I didn't notice any seizures. I'm still not sure what caused it. I have noticed he seems a bit shakier overall from time to time. Might be something for us to figure out. Carter has his yearly GI and eye appointments this month, then hopefully we are good until next year. His 2 bottom teeth have been coming in good- they have those nice serrated tops that his baby teeth don't have because he grinds so much. Carter's oxygen concentrator and tanks were finally picked up because we don't need them anymore. So nice. We still own his bi pap machine so we cleaned it up and packed it away for now. I love seeing progress.</span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #741b47;">Carter has been watching us eat a lot lately, like he's really paying attention, so I was curious if he was interested in the food or just what we were doing. So I tried giving him some pudding today, and he smiled but flinched and turned away when the spoon got close to his face. It's not something I want to force but I was curious. He turns 5 in just three months and I had hoped he would be walking by then. He will stand and even walk some if you help support him, but still has trouble keeping his head up. I haven't really ever pictured him walking and to be honest, I'm not even sure if he will be able to walk totally on his own. I think he can with support or a walker, but I don't know about all by himself. Of course that would be incredible but I kind of keep my expectations low or more realistic so I don't get disappointed, while still giving him the opportunities to do what he can. </span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #741b47;">Sierra is 2 years old and about 5 months, so I've been thinking about potty training her. I bought her a toilet before Keaton was born, my mom bought her panties and I just ordered some potty training books. I've been reading up on the signs of a toddler being ready and I don't think she is quite there. She still needs to have periods of time during the day where her diaper is relatively dry, she needs to be better at sitting still, she needs to help put her pants on and off, and I need to see her interest and more awareness of messy diapers. I want to start reading to her about it and see if in a few months she will be ready. They say if you do it too early that it will just take longer. She drinks a lot too so I want to switch her to eating more. With her still being a bit difficult and acting out, I think it's best we wait a little bit anyway. She is putting two to four words together when she talks, but I'd like her to communicate a little better with me. She follows directions pretty well and seemed interested in the toilet, but mostly because it made music when you flushed it. Lol. </span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #741b47;">Keaton is 7 weeks 4 days and getting so big. Whenever we are out people think he is like 3 months old or more. He's still in 3 month clothes and acts small still. He is pretty even tempered and sweet and has started to smile, coo and laugh some. It takes some work but he will get there. He likes to wiggle on the floor and look around and receive lots of kisses from Sierra and me. He is still sleeping pretty good and seems to be strong with his grip and lifting his head. He has rolled to the side a few times now. He can see really well now and follows me when I leave his sight. I can tell he likes my voice because he smiles the most when I come into his vision and talk or sing to him. He is very cute- we still aren't sure if he'll be blonde or have strawberry blonde hair like me. I see a little bit of me, Carter and Chris in him. He is a good mix of everyone. We are blessing him this month so I look forward to that. I have two sisters in law having baby boys within the new few months so that's exciting. Anyway, that's it for now!</span>Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-89377779153061769852014-08-18T16:36:00.001-07:002014-08-18T16:54:37.012-07:00Some venting<span style="color: #274e13;">I don't have a specific topic in mind but I wanted to write anyway. We upped Carter's calories with his Pediasure because he hasn't gained weight in awhile. He starts preschool next Wednesday, which I'm sure he'll be excited about once he's back there and sees his teacher and friends. He has enjoyed his summer with Brenda- she helps him color, walk and play with toys. It has given him somewhere to go and new things to do. Carter has a cold right now so is fussier and he gave it to the other kids. Sierra deals with it well, but the poor baby has been congested and has made for a little bit more sleepless nights. I think things have been catching up with me, I'm getting more tired and a bit ornery lately. I think once you've gone without enough sleep for enough time you think you're used to it, but then you hit this spot where you start to get ornery about it. At least I do. Who doesn't love sleep and function better with it, right? I love having Keaton, he is such a good baby, but it still wears on you. He does love being held, which baby doesn't, so by the end of the day I really need a break. I am changing like 15-16 diapers a day between the 3 kids and let's see...4 meals for Carter, 3-4 for Sierra, and about 8 for Keaton. Once you add everything up just getting through the necessities of a day starts to sound a little depressing.</span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13;">I think in life it's normal that the day to day stuff just starts to bum us out. We have our routines and such which is normal and necessary, but as a Mom sometimes it just gets a bit much. I know I have a newborn so it's expected, but I guess I'm at that point I wanted to vent a little. My post partum depression has gotten better as I've bonded with Keaton and gotten to know him more. But I still have my hard days like lately, or get stressed or bummed out. I tend to let my mind run with me once I'm bummed out which only makes it worse. I start to compile lists in my head of things I need to do, or worries about the future and things that I wish were better or that I could change, etc. I start getting down on myself for not doing better, and think about potty training Sierra or thinking I should do more with Carter and then I just start feeling tired, which I already am...you know, that pity party roller coaster that gets nobody anywhere. But we all do it sometimes, right? I'm not trying to make anyone feel bad for me, just like to express and share stuff. I'm a girl:) Chris will be going back to school in 2-3 weeks so I know that is coming, which means things will only get worse. I joked with a friend that I will probably start drinking then. Seriously no, but I foresee a lot more Dr. Pepper in my future and tears.</span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13;">Sierra has definitely been in her terrible 2's which has just added to things. Keaton will be good one day but then she is terrible. Or vice versa; guess that happens once you have multiple kids. I've had a few mornings where all three kids are crying and need something. Fun. I've had to learn to move faster and multi task even more. With Sierra when she can't communicate to me what she wants/needs I try to get her to show me. It doesn't always work, but at least we are trying to solve the problem. She likes to scream a lot, hit, spit and throw things. We are trying to be consistent with time outs and listing consequences. I have no idea if she is listening or learning anything, but we have to do something. I try not to get frustrated with her but it isn't easy. Some days I wonder why people even have kids. Oh boy. I tell people I had kids just so I will have grand kids one day. Haha. I hear it's the reward and so fun so I look forward to that:) Don't get me wrong there are great things with kids, but it's not all rainbows. Let's not kid ourselves here. I have a disabled kid, a terrible 2's and a newborn- that speaks for itself some days. It's hard as a woman and parent to not get down on yourself at the end of the day and think I can do better or should have. But thankfully, we get a new start everyday and hopefully it will be better and easier. Sometimes it won't, but I have chocolate and Dr. Pepper for that.</span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13;">I've also realized something about myself over time- that I have high expectations for people in my life. It's not the same for everyone and it can change depending on my mood, but I do. I say it's because I would do it for them, if that makes sense. I feel like I have a lot to offer and am willing to do for those I love, even if never given the chance, so I expect it of people. There are friends I expect little of because I understand their situation, and others I've learned to not expect much because our lives are in different places. I have to be realistic so I don't feel let down. But with family, I do expect a lot. And most of the time, we get a lot. With Carter being disabled and the new baby I felt like we should be the top of every one's list. I don't know if that sounds cocky or weird, but that's how I felt. We can't have anyone babysit Carter because of his feeding and meds, and with a newborn you should expect more help. I have received a lot of help and have recognized and been thankful for that, but it's been hard still. With summer people have had vacations and other obligations, and sometimes communication isn't always understood how you thought it would be. I try to make my expectations clear so people don't have to read my mind. It was hard too because my mom had surgery and her own things she needed to deal with, which is understandable. When I had Sierra I really wanted the time to bond with her so we had help with Carter everyday for like two months. I've had help with Carter because of the funds we received, which is huge, but I wanted help more with Sierra so I could focus on healing and the baby. It has worked in some ways and not in others. I've had to tell myself to be grateful for what help I've received and to move on. </span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13;">I've had some family relationships that I've had to kind of cut off and step back from for awhile, possibly indefinitely. It was sad to have to make that decision but it sure helped with my stress. A quote on Facebook inspired me because it said, "Either you invite drama, cause drama, or associate with people that cause drama..." I don't remember the rest, but I realized I needed to not associate with certain people because of all the drama. I'm not saying I have never caused drama, I have, but certain people certainly were causing a lot that was unnecessary. It was hazardous to my well being and life. I had a friend on Facebook that reassured me in my decision, and even though it still doesn't make sense to some family members, it was the right decision for me. I believe that families can be forever, but I focus more on my family of five in that regard. Our extended and even more extended family relationships are also important, but not as much. So when I decided that, and focused more on my own family of five, I have felt much better. Anyway, instead of venting anymore I am going to go hold my baby boy and count my blessings so I feel better.</span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13;">Thanks for reading!</span>Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-43500389273713497452014-08-03T07:37:00.000-07:002014-08-06T05:16:21.217-07:00Momma of 3 and Real Stuff<span style="color: #38761d;">So Chris went back to work this week and I was a momma of three on my own. No, not quite. Since I am still healing from childbirth I can't lift anything heavier then the baby for six weeks. Now, you tell me how that is supposed to work when you have a 4 1/2 year old that can't walk or do anything for himself. So, once again I've had to enlist the help of my mother in law who lives across and over the street. When Carter gets up in the morning, I call her and she comes over to get him out of bed and dressed. Then she watches the kids while I feed Carter, do his meds then get myself ready for the day. I have no idea how I'd be able to do that all by myself yet. Once everyone is dressed and ready she goes back home until I need her again. Carter's CNA Brenda still comes at 10 then drops him off at 4, giving me 6 hours from having him as well. He will be starting school back up at the end of the month, and that might be tricky as well depending what time his bus comes.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">My mom was able to help me two days this week with Sierra, and then my sister in law Heidi helped some on the other two days. My mother in law is very busy with her church calling and helping others in the neighborhood, so she is able to help me mostly in the morning. My mom recently had surgery right before I had Keaton, so she is also not able to lift anything over 10 lbs. This makes things tricky as well as far as getting Sierra in and out of the car. So far we've asked Brenda to help, and then my dad. Now that I've shed some light into how we are handling three kids, I'll let you know how Keaton is doing. He is a lot more awake during the day and likes to be held or lay on the floor looking around. A dangerous place if Carter is around, so I have to keep a close eye on things. He seems to eat really often and likes his binkie sometimes. Once late afternoon approaches he seems to settle down some. Sierra naps about 1-4 but Keaton seems to be awake during this time, so I always have someone to watch. We try to feed him one last time about 8:30 or 9, then put him in pajamas and swaddle him. Carter and Sierra are in bed between 7:30 and 8. He will sleep anywhere from 3-6 hours, then wake up to eat. This feeding takes about an hour because he's very hungry but also tired. Once he's changed and burped (which takes times) he usually goes back to sleep again for another 2-3 hours. Then we're pretty much up for the day because by then it's like 5:30. Chris is up and gone to work and once Keaton is fed, Sierra and/or Carter are up for the day. Even if Keaton goes back to sleep, the other kids are up and needing breakfast. So I think we are averaging 5-6 hours of sleep. Chris and I are taking turns feeding the baby right now until he goes back to school. The night is the hardest part of having a baby by far.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Having three kids is hard and I don't know how long it will take to feel comfortable. We have three in diapers (yikes!) and it's hard to go to the bathroom or eat when it's just me. I'm almost always holding the baby which obviously makes it hard to do things- he will go in the swing for some time here and there- and Sierra loves to touch and kiss him a lot. It's sweet, but sometimes wakes him up and agitates him. I've heard from other people it takes a few months to adjust, so I'm trying to be patient. It's hard for me because I'm very schedule-oriented, organized and like to know what to expect. With a newborn it's pretty go with the flow for a while until you notice their habits and can develop a schedule. Keaton has already smiled a lot in his sleep and even has laughed twice. I know that sounds crazy since he isn't quite 3 weeks old, but it's true. He seems to be a pretty good baby so far. He is hard to burp sometimes and wiggles a lot in his sleep, even when swaddled, but hopefully that will get better with time. We ran out of newborn diapers so he's in size 1 now. They are a tad big but the newborn ones barely covered him anymore. At his 2 week appointment he was 75% for height and weight and 80% for head. He was back to birth weight with 1 more ounce, weighing at 9 lbs 8 oz. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">One more thing I wanted to touch on again, is post partum depression. This time I've had it some, and for those that have never experienced it I wanted to share some of the feelings. Having a baby causes your hormones to go all over the place, and even with a good baby it takes time to feel normal again. Being sleep deprived obviously doesn't help, but goes with the territory. It can cause feelings of loneliness even when others are around, feelings of sadness and darkness, feeling scared or nervous to be around the baby, not feeling confident in your abilities as a mother, wondering when things will get better, feeling bleh most of the time, having a hard time sleeping, over-thinking (my hugest problem), over-analyzing everything, being obsessed with the time, hating night time and when it gets dark, being hard on yourself, loss of appetite or having a hard time eating, heart racing or body tremors, crying often...etc. I've had all or some of these with each kid I've had. It's even possible to feel like running around, giving away the baby or even hurting yourself or the baby. I have never wanted to hurt my children, but some people can really have a hard time. I have had a hard time before so I am very empathetic to those that go through this. What is helpful in these situations for those that want to help, is to be patient. To listen, not to judge, and to help in anyway you can. I am good at asking for help now and not expecting people to read my mind. I am trying to be easy on myself, but I find myself overdoing things by cleaning too much or lifting things I shouldn't. Being pregnant for so long made me impatient to get back and doing things again.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Having children is really hard but can also be fun. For me, the fun stuff comes a little bit later when they can interact more and are sleeping better. I wouldn't have had more children or made it this far without a wonderful, fantastic husband. We got a few more pictures back from Keaton's photo shoot, and I will share my favorite one here. A great book I like to review is <i>Secrets of the Baby Whisperer. </i>It has good information on baby's signals and cues, and how to love the baby you were given and trying to figure them out. If I don't blog for awhile you will know why! Thanks for reading and feel free to share any thoughts.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W-PouOaJ7ZM/U95IWNUL6TI/AAAAAAAAAgw/Pn2NyTxym7Y/s1600/IMG_8531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W-PouOaJ7ZM/U95IWNUL6TI/AAAAAAAAAgw/Pn2NyTxym7Y/s1600/IMG_8531.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></span></div>
Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-81176375594044307852014-07-23T09:13:00.001-07:002014-07-23T09:13:31.296-07:00New Baby!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m2x1_dm5xPc/U8_ccZJubvI/AAAAAAAAAgg/zj4-xu6-QIo/s1600/10531467_682706625147837_3850350224381645358_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m2x1_dm5xPc/U8_ccZJubvI/AAAAAAAAAgg/zj4-xu6-QIo/s1600/10531467_682706625147837_3850350224381645358_o.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #134f5c;">Keaton Thomas Thorup was born on Tuesday, July 15th at 6:33 p.m. He weighed 9 lbs 7 oz and 21 1/2 inches long. I went in Monday night at 8 pm to be induced since the doctor thought it would take awhile. Well, she was right! After almost 22 hours of petocin and being in labor he finally came. The nurses were betting each other that I would end up getting a C section. Keaton was breached for awhile but turned on his own. Although he was heads down, he stayed high up. It took just a lot of time, positioning and petocin to finally get him to move down. We didn't think he would come down on his own. The doctor said it was because he was so big, and I'm just glad I didn't have to have a C section. I only pushed for like 8 minutes and there he was! We had some pictures done three days later and he cooperated for part of it. This is just one of those cute shots.</span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #134f5c;">It's been an adjustment having three kids, even with Chris home helping. Keaton loves being held so not much is getting done but that's alright. He is pretty easy to calm down and seems to be a good baby so far. His cry is cute and not too loud or piercing. Once you've already had kids the shock of how much work and lack of sleep can bowl you right over. This time we were a little more prepared for it. Change can be hard even if it's a good thing, so I expect a few months of adjustment before we feel like things are "normal" again. I've had a few downs so far already because I had planned on nursing the baby. With Carter I only did a little in the NICU and then pumped for several weeks. With Sierra I bottle fed right from the beginning. This was to be a new experience for me, but one I hoped would work. Unfortunately, the breast feeding did not work out for us. Keaton latched on great in the hospital but never seemed to get enough. With being such a big baby, we had to supplement as well. I hoped once my milk was in it would be enough, but I got so engorged that he never latched on again. We tried frozen peas, cabbage leaves, warm showers, pumping and a nipple shield but nothing worked. I know my limits, so we decided to just go with bottles like we did with the other kids. I talked to several lactation specialists and they said I must just get a ton of milk and immediately get so swollen that nothing can come out. It was frustrating and painful for a few days.</span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #134f5c;">The other thing about having a baby is post partum depression. I had it really bad with Carter and some with Sierra. It's something I know I will probably struggle with, so I have to take it easy on myself and accept all the help I can get. I love my children, but motherhood has been the biggest struggle in my life. I hope with time that things will get better. I'm open about discussing it, and if anyone wants to add their experiences feel free to. In the meantime, we are a happy and busy family of five. Sierra is sweet and gentle with Keaton and loves to touch and kiss him. Carter so far seems a little more stressed out then normal, but otherwise doing fine. We are lucky to have such a cute little boy added to our family.</span>Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8522489338740088671.post-6952634580644046512014-06-12T09:52:00.002-07:002014-06-12T09:55:42.743-07:00Tooth Fairy & More<span style="color: #351c75;">Carter has lost his first tooth! It's so funny because we just saw the dentist and he noticed 2 bottom teeth that were loose and suggested numbing and pulling them out the next week. Later that day we were in the car, and I noticed blood in his mouth and something white rolling around. I fished it out and it was his little tiny tooth! He seems so young to have lost a tooth, being only 4 1/2. We might try pulling the other one out this weekend. He looks cute with that little gap now.</span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #351c75;">Carter also had an xray at Shriner's in orthopaedics since it had been 18 months- his spine had a curve of 11 and you have to get a 10 to have scoliosis. She didn't seem concerned though, and said it could have been how he was sitting. So we will follow up in a year and see how it looks then. His hips look great though and she was pleased how he is sitting, scooting and standing now.</span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #351c75;">We weighed and measured Carter, he is 38 lbs and 44 1/2 inches long. Measuring his length can be tricky but we did it several times. His dietitian didn't believe me, because that puts him at 95% for length and like 45% for weight. He is a tall boy! So we are going to be increasing the calories in his Pediasure to help support his growth.</span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #351c75;">Carter's CNA Brenda started on Monday, and today is the 2nd day he's gone with her for the day to play. She takes him from 10 am to 4 pm and she seems really nice and caring. I think he enjoys a new change of scenery and routine. He's had a sinus infection, plus with teething he's been a little more ornery. I am 34 weeks 3 days and so ready for this baby to come! I have 32 days until I am induced! Crazy.</span>Heather Thoruphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15424572910155856726noreply@blogger.com2