So, here are my handsome boys on their first day of school, August 2011...
 |
| Joshua, 3rd Grade |
 |
| Bryson, 6th Grade |
 |
| Nathan, Kindergarten |
 |
 |
| Rachel, Sophomore |
Showing posts with label Bryson. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bryson. Show all posts
Friday, August 3, 2012
First Day of School - Fall 2011
Fist day of school for the boys always comes faster than we want it to. Summers at our charter school are shorter, allowing kids to retain more skills and knowledge and giving us more time off for breaks during the school year. We love it, but wish it lined up with the the school district a little better. It's always hard going school though, knowing the big sister is laying in bed being lazy.
So, here are my handsome boys on their first day of school, August 2011...
...And the big sister, on her first day of school, a couple of weeks later.
So, here are my handsome boys on their first day of school, August 2011...
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Bryson's Progress
One of the reasons I started this blog was to share my thoughts and feelings about having special needs children, one with health needs and another with psychological needs. I hoped by putting these thoughts into words I might help someone else someday that is walking a similar road. Unfortunately, I don't do a very good job of keeping those updates coming when things are going so well.... Here is a long-overdue update about Bryson.
I heard a few weeks ago that the term, "Aspergers Syndrome" is no longer valid, and kids with those symptoms are now part of the umbrella of "High Functioning Autism". Doesn't really matter to me, the diagnosis a few years ago is what got him the help he needed, and getting him the help he needed made him higher functioning than I thought possible.
On October 13th, the day after his 11th birthday, he was officially released from his occupational therapy, having met all of the goals we created with his therapist, and no other new concerns or deficiencies presented themselves. We were excited and so proud of him for accomplishing so much in just over a year. He was sad about not going to therapy anymore, because he loved Tonja and loved learning and practicing his new skills. She gave him an hour of undivided attention and listened to him talk (greatly encouraged him, really) about his day, his worries, his successes, and his preferences as she worked on strengthening his muscles, balance and coordination. It was kind of hectic for me, going every other Wednesday for over a year, but Bryson and I really enjoyed our alone time in the car driving there and back for each appointment. Sharing that time together was pretty special for both of us and we loved to talk about and celebrate his successes (always with an Arctic Circle ice cream cone on the way home).
This TumbleForm "Swing" was one of Bryson's favorite things. He nicknamed it "Tumbleweed" because it reminded him of a horse and he tumbled from it often! He also loved throwing the medicine balls into the small trampolines to play "bounce back". He got pretty good at it and could catch the heavier one while standing on one foot. By the time he was released he had learned how to tie his shoes (again), throw and catch with one hand, and how to skip, hop, and climb. He climbed up a rope ladder and a rock wall, and loved being up so high. (He was so afraid to climb even 2 feet off the ground when he started his therapy.) It was absolutely amazing to see the confidence grow in our little boy in just a year. I think being successful and getting stronger, plus having something to do that was all about him, was so good for him. Tonja always talked with me, too, giving suggestions with his sensory issues, resolving the frustrations at home, and offering new ideas for school and homework. She said once that she loved having him for a patient because his parents were engaged in his development and his therapy continued with us at home. Why would we not follow her suggestions and reinforce her teaching? Oh, how we love Tonja, and will be forever grateful to her for teaching us what to do to help our sweet, special son. He's a different kid than he was a year ago...confident, comfortable, successful, and even happy!
We also love our special eduction teacher at his school, Mindy. Like Tonja, she does her job with such loving care and concern that it doesn't even seem like she's doing a "job". She called me a couple months ago because she was concerned about Bryson's math scores, and we met for over an hour to talk about that and some frustrations with homework we were experiencing at home. (Because of his diagnosis, he has an IEP and accommodations at school to give him the added support he needs to be more successful. He attends a charter school whose philosophy is that when children are in a safe environment with accelerated learning opportunities, they will rise to the challenge and excel. It's a philosophy that works, even for kids with learning challenges. He still struggles at school, but is getting the help he needs to understand concepts and actually catch up to where he should be.) He was struggling specifically with the tasks of completing his 12 or 13 math problems each day and putting his spelling words in ABC order. It just took FOREVER...(like until bedtime). Well, we went back our 3rd and 4th grade method of having his math problems transferred from the book to the paper for him, as it seems that he was getting lost between the book and his work several times for each problem. And I think she's brilliant with the alphabetical order thing.... Bryson is a tactile learner. If he can manipulate it, he gets it. So, deciding he could show his understanding of the concept with 10-12 words just as easily as with 20, she started making him 10 word cards for him to manipulate until they're in order and then just write them down in a list like he has them placed. Pretty smart, huh? I never would have come up with that! Anyway, he also goes to early morning study hall at 7:15 three days a week to have someone help him correct and fix his math assignments. These accommodations alone has reduced homework time from 4 hours (not kidding) to about 1, and he works independently at his desk in his room, is self-motivated, successful, and again...happy!
I am so grateful for the people in my sweet boy's life that have helped us help him. I can't imagine how frustrating life would be to have a brain that processes things differently from the rest of the world (or so it seems) and not be able to understand why things are so hard and uncomfortable all the time. Oh, how I love my sweet little angel boy, with his happy, forgiving, loving disposition. And how grateful I am to have found help through the suggestions of loving teachers, doctors, therapists, friends and family.
I heard a few weeks ago that the term, "Aspergers Syndrome" is no longer valid, and kids with those symptoms are now part of the umbrella of "High Functioning Autism". Doesn't really matter to me, the diagnosis a few years ago is what got him the help he needed, and getting him the help he needed made him higher functioning than I thought possible.
On October 13th, the day after his 11th birthday, he was officially released from his occupational therapy, having met all of the goals we created with his therapist, and no other new concerns or deficiencies presented themselves. We were excited and so proud of him for accomplishing so much in just over a year. He was sad about not going to therapy anymore, because he loved Tonja and loved learning and practicing his new skills. She gave him an hour of undivided attention and listened to him talk (greatly encouraged him, really) about his day, his worries, his successes, and his preferences as she worked on strengthening his muscles, balance and coordination. It was kind of hectic for me, going every other Wednesday for over a year, but Bryson and I really enjoyed our alone time in the car driving there and back for each appointment. Sharing that time together was pretty special for both of us and we loved to talk about and celebrate his successes (always with an Arctic Circle ice cream cone on the way home).
This TumbleForm "Swing" was one of Bryson's favorite things. He nicknamed it "Tumbleweed" because it reminded him of a horse and he tumbled from it often! He also loved throwing the medicine balls into the small trampolines to play "bounce back". He got pretty good at it and could catch the heavier one while standing on one foot. By the time he was released he had learned how to tie his shoes (again), throw and catch with one hand, and how to skip, hop, and climb. He climbed up a rope ladder and a rock wall, and loved being up so high. (He was so afraid to climb even 2 feet off the ground when he started his therapy.) It was absolutely amazing to see the confidence grow in our little boy in just a year. I think being successful and getting stronger, plus having something to do that was all about him, was so good for him. Tonja always talked with me, too, giving suggestions with his sensory issues, resolving the frustrations at home, and offering new ideas for school and homework. She said once that she loved having him for a patient because his parents were engaged in his development and his therapy continued with us at home. Why would we not follow her suggestions and reinforce her teaching? Oh, how we love Tonja, and will be forever grateful to her for teaching us what to do to help our sweet, special son. He's a different kid than he was a year ago...confident, comfortable, successful, and even happy!
We also love our special eduction teacher at his school, Mindy. Like Tonja, she does her job with such loving care and concern that it doesn't even seem like she's doing a "job". She called me a couple months ago because she was concerned about Bryson's math scores, and we met for over an hour to talk about that and some frustrations with homework we were experiencing at home. (Because of his diagnosis, he has an IEP and accommodations at school to give him the added support he needs to be more successful. He attends a charter school whose philosophy is that when children are in a safe environment with accelerated learning opportunities, they will rise to the challenge and excel. It's a philosophy that works, even for kids with learning challenges. He still struggles at school, but is getting the help he needs to understand concepts and actually catch up to where he should be.) He was struggling specifically with the tasks of completing his 12 or 13 math problems each day and putting his spelling words in ABC order. It just took FOREVER...(like until bedtime). Well, we went back our 3rd and 4th grade method of having his math problems transferred from the book to the paper for him, as it seems that he was getting lost between the book and his work several times for each problem. And I think she's brilliant with the alphabetical order thing.... Bryson is a tactile learner. If he can manipulate it, he gets it. So, deciding he could show his understanding of the concept with 10-12 words just as easily as with 20, she started making him 10 word cards for him to manipulate until they're in order and then just write them down in a list like he has them placed. Pretty smart, huh? I never would have come up with that! Anyway, he also goes to early morning study hall at 7:15 three days a week to have someone help him correct and fix his math assignments. These accommodations alone has reduced homework time from 4 hours (not kidding) to about 1, and he works independently at his desk in his room, is self-motivated, successful, and again...happy!
I am so grateful for the people in my sweet boy's life that have helped us help him. I can't imagine how frustrating life would be to have a brain that processes things differently from the rest of the world (or so it seems) and not be able to understand why things are so hard and uncomfortable all the time. Oh, how I love my sweet little angel boy, with his happy, forgiving, loving disposition. And how grateful I am to have found help through the suggestions of loving teachers, doctors, therapists, friends and family.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
'Tis the Season to be Jolly!
What a great month December was for our family. We had so many wonderful opportunities to "feel" the Christmas Spirit and so many great events with family that kept my emotions close to the surface and my tear ducts occupied for most of the month.
At the very beginning of the month, Rachel's choir sang at the Festival of Trees they hold every year at the Stephens Performing Arts Center at ISU. We went early to look at all the beautiful trees and the boys got to sit on Santa's lap. Then while Rachel was practicing, the boys and I worked on crafts they had out for the children to do. The concert was really nice (the Century Choir and Band performed) and the boys were really good. We've never done that before, but enjoyed it enough that I think we might have to make it an annual tradition to at least go to see the trees and Santa (and Rachel if she's performing, too).
That next weekend, we had our annual Brown Family Christmas party, which was far from traditional this year. Steve's parents bought us all tickets to see "A Christmas Carol" at the Hale Centre Theatre in Salt Lake for Christmas. (I think there were over 50 that they paid for.) Oh, what a fun event. Bryson got to sit in the front row next to Grandpa, and Nathan was sitting on the edge of his chair the whole time. We all loved the performance so much! The theater is so fun with it's sunken stage and audience all around, that you feel like you're part of the story, too. Bryson said to Steve on the way out, "Dad, I think I would like to go to the theater more often." We wondered if he'd like more to be part of the play...he spent most of his day quoting Tiny Tim. Josh really loved it too. He actually hugged "Mr. Scrooge" on the way out. It was so fun, and such a wonderful treat for our whole (extended) family to share in the spirit of that classic tale together. Following the play, we went to a church building and had our very traditional lunch, game exchange, musical present game, collection for "Secret Santa", and family program. That also was very special with the sweet testimonies that were borne following the program. After we cleaned up the church, we went to a friend's of Steve's parents who works at the temple with them. They had a "ride on" model train with a mile or more of permanent track through their amazing property. We started in their heated garage/shop where we sat and watched "The Polar Express" until it was our turn. We had instructions and then got on the train. It rode through the property past more lights and yard decorations than I've ever seen in one place, to a place they called the "North Pole". There some cute little elves, took us into a room where Santa sat and the kids all got to sit on his lap and put in their requests and talk with him. He then showed the kids a candy cane and explained that it represents Jesus. We all sang "Silent Night" together, and then "reverently" left to return to the train. The second half of the train ride was through the rest of the property where we passed large "billboard" prints (mostly of paintings by Simon Dewey) with spotlights on them and listened to sacred Christmas hymns and songs. It was such a fun outing, and gave the kids an opportunity to think about the fun of the season, as well as the true meaning of Christmas. It was such a fun day with the Brown Family, a great time together, and a wonderful way to bring the Christmas spirit into our thoughts and hearts.
We spent an extra night in Utah so we could go visit and attend church Sunday morning with my Grandma Law (my dad's mom) in Provo. That was a special treat for her, and for us. Then we spent the rest of the afternoon with Steve's mom and dad and left in time to hit Salt Lake City in the dark. We drove around until we finally found a parking space in a lot, bundled up the kids, and walked a few blocks to Temple Square. The kids couldn't believe how beautiful all the lights were and loved the story and huge nativity on the lawn between the visitors center and the tabernacle. We wandered around for about an hour until we were tired, and then headed home. It was really the very best way we could have ended such a fun Christmas weekend together.
The following Friday, Steve and I took the three biggest kids (Sarah, Rachel and Bryson) to Salt Lake City for the Tabernacle Choir's Annual Christmas Concert. We were so grateful to my mom for volunteering to have the little boys spend the night with her, and to Steve's friend who works for the church's public affairs department was able to get us tickets. It was a miracle of sorts. David Archuleta and actor Michael York were the special guests. What a fun concert! There was something for everyone to enjoy. There were dancers, the Temple Square bell choir, an organ solo, a very touching story, and the conference center decorations were incredible. The music that the choir and David sang were everything from traditional carols to original compositions, sacred hymns to festive songs. It was such a fun concert, and something we would LOVE to do again! One of the best parts, though, was running into Steve's parents there. The concert was the culminating event of an interfaith conference that his dad had been asked to speak at. Their reserved seating was in the row right in front of us! It was fun to share the concert with them as well.
The very next day, Saturday, we headed to Boise for the Dixon Family Christmas party on Sunday. Sarah had a double date that her cousin set up for her, so we had to be there by Saturday evening. They had a lot of fun together (went to see lights, eat pizza, slide down icy slides at the park and play games). She was really grateful for a cousin with good friends that went to all that trouble to make sure she'd have fun. The next morning, we went to church with my sister, Kristina, and the had the family part that evening. We always do our "Christmas soup" dinner and treats and then act out the Nativity. It was a tradition we did as children, that has survived the years and is now part of our children's Christmas memories as well. Instead of reading the Christmas story from the Bible or another book, we sang the verses of "The Nativity Song" in the Primary Songbook and had the kids enter the "scene" as we sang about them. It was a very nice, quick way to review the story and act it out without all the chaos we usually have. Nathan was Joseph this year and chose his older cousin, Macey to be Mary. The other kids just picked what they wanted to be. The funniest part of the program this year was when Mary and Joseph entered and Mary just dropped the baby (a doll, thank goodness) into the "manger". As part of the program this year, we added a story called "Mary's Treasure Box" that I read as my mom and Macey acted it out. It's a story about Mary as a grandmother, telling her granddaughter, Sarah, who is James' daughter, about Jesus and the events in his life. For each thing they pulled out of the treasure box (like gray wool, straw, a flute, cloth, gold, frankinsence and myrrh) they talked about where it came from what it represents or what we learn from it. It was such a wonderful story. (I had photocopies of it because we used it for our program at our Relief Society Christmas Breakfast.) I would love to add it to my collection, but it's pretty expensive (maybe out of print or something). Anyway, it was a great program and we had a really fun time together.
The next weekend was Christmas, and we loved sharing that week before it together with everybody home from school and work, finishing shopping and wrapping, watching movies, playing games, building puzzles, and just being together. Rachel's piano recital was that Monday, and of course, she did a beautiful job. My brother, Michael and his wife Krystal, came and spent a night with us and we had a wonderfully fun time together. With the exception of a head cold settling in on me and Krystal, it was such a fun visit and we were grateful that they spent part of their vacation time with us in our new house.
I think more than all the things we saw or did to celebrate before Christmas, I really loved all the new experiences we had, and that we were together enjoying them. We got pretty spoiled on our trip last summer and really liked having so much together time exploring and discovering new things. I think I loved all these events because they seemed kind of like an extension of those wonderful memories. It was a very busy month and lots of traveling, but these memories we made together made this a year we'll always remember.
At the very beginning of the month, Rachel's choir sang at the Festival of Trees they hold every year at the Stephens Performing Arts Center at ISU. We went early to look at all the beautiful trees and the boys got to sit on Santa's lap. Then while Rachel was practicing, the boys and I worked on crafts they had out for the children to do. The concert was really nice (the Century Choir and Band performed) and the boys were really good. We've never done that before, but enjoyed it enough that I think we might have to make it an annual tradition to at least go to see the trees and Santa (and Rachel if she's performing, too).
That next weekend, we had our annual Brown Family Christmas party, which was far from traditional this year. Steve's parents bought us all tickets to see "A Christmas Carol" at the Hale Centre Theatre in Salt Lake for Christmas. (I think there were over 50 that they paid for.) Oh, what a fun event. Bryson got to sit in the front row next to Grandpa, and Nathan was sitting on the edge of his chair the whole time. We all loved the performance so much! The theater is so fun with it's sunken stage and audience all around, that you feel like you're part of the story, too. Bryson said to Steve on the way out, "Dad, I think I would like to go to the theater more often." We wondered if he'd like more to be part of the play...he spent most of his day quoting Tiny Tim. Josh really loved it too. He actually hugged "Mr. Scrooge" on the way out. It was so fun, and such a wonderful treat for our whole (extended) family to share in the spirit of that classic tale together. Following the play, we went to a church building and had our very traditional lunch, game exchange, musical present game, collection for "Secret Santa", and family program. That also was very special with the sweet testimonies that were borne following the program. After we cleaned up the church, we went to a friend's of Steve's parents who works at the temple with them. They had a "ride on" model train with a mile or more of permanent track through their amazing property. We started in their heated garage/shop where we sat and watched "The Polar Express" until it was our turn. We had instructions and then got on the train. It rode through the property past more lights and yard decorations than I've ever seen in one place, to a place they called the "North Pole". There some cute little elves, took us into a room where Santa sat and the kids all got to sit on his lap and put in their requests and talk with him. He then showed the kids a candy cane and explained that it represents Jesus. We all sang "Silent Night" together, and then "reverently" left to return to the train. The second half of the train ride was through the rest of the property where we passed large "billboard" prints (mostly of paintings by Simon Dewey) with spotlights on them and listened to sacred Christmas hymns and songs. It was such a fun outing, and gave the kids an opportunity to think about the fun of the season, as well as the true meaning of Christmas. It was such a fun day with the Brown Family, a great time together, and a wonderful way to bring the Christmas spirit into our thoughts and hearts.
We spent an extra night in Utah so we could go visit and attend church Sunday morning with my Grandma Law (my dad's mom) in Provo. That was a special treat for her, and for us. Then we spent the rest of the afternoon with Steve's mom and dad and left in time to hit Salt Lake City in the dark. We drove around until we finally found a parking space in a lot, bundled up the kids, and walked a few blocks to Temple Square. The kids couldn't believe how beautiful all the lights were and loved the story and huge nativity on the lawn between the visitors center and the tabernacle. We wandered around for about an hour until we were tired, and then headed home. It was really the very best way we could have ended such a fun Christmas weekend together.
The following Friday, Steve and I took the three biggest kids (Sarah, Rachel and Bryson) to Salt Lake City for the Tabernacle Choir's Annual Christmas Concert. We were so grateful to my mom for volunteering to have the little boys spend the night with her, and to Steve's friend who works for the church's public affairs department was able to get us tickets. It was a miracle of sorts. David Archuleta and actor Michael York were the special guests. What a fun concert! There was something for everyone to enjoy. There were dancers, the Temple Square bell choir, an organ solo, a very touching story, and the conference center decorations were incredible. The music that the choir and David sang were everything from traditional carols to original compositions, sacred hymns to festive songs. It was such a fun concert, and something we would LOVE to do again! One of the best parts, though, was running into Steve's parents there. The concert was the culminating event of an interfaith conference that his dad had been asked to speak at. Their reserved seating was in the row right in front of us! It was fun to share the concert with them as well.
The very next day, Saturday, we headed to Boise for the Dixon Family Christmas party on Sunday. Sarah had a double date that her cousin set up for her, so we had to be there by Saturday evening. They had a lot of fun together (went to see lights, eat pizza, slide down icy slides at the park and play games). She was really grateful for a cousin with good friends that went to all that trouble to make sure she'd have fun. The next morning, we went to church with my sister, Kristina, and the had the family part that evening. We always do our "Christmas soup" dinner and treats and then act out the Nativity. It was a tradition we did as children, that has survived the years and is now part of our children's Christmas memories as well. Instead of reading the Christmas story from the Bible or another book, we sang the verses of "The Nativity Song" in the Primary Songbook and had the kids enter the "scene" as we sang about them. It was a very nice, quick way to review the story and act it out without all the chaos we usually have. Nathan was Joseph this year and chose his older cousin, Macey to be Mary. The other kids just picked what they wanted to be. The funniest part of the program this year was when Mary and Joseph entered and Mary just dropped the baby (a doll, thank goodness) into the "manger". As part of the program this year, we added a story called "Mary's Treasure Box" that I read as my mom and Macey acted it out. It's a story about Mary as a grandmother, telling her granddaughter, Sarah, who is James' daughter, about Jesus and the events in his life. For each thing they pulled out of the treasure box (like gray wool, straw, a flute, cloth, gold, frankinsence and myrrh) they talked about where it came from what it represents or what we learn from it. It was such a wonderful story. (I had photocopies of it because we used it for our program at our Relief Society Christmas Breakfast.) I would love to add it to my collection, but it's pretty expensive (maybe out of print or something). Anyway, it was a great program and we had a really fun time together.
The next weekend was Christmas, and we loved sharing that week before it together with everybody home from school and work, finishing shopping and wrapping, watching movies, playing games, building puzzles, and just being together. Rachel's piano recital was that Monday, and of course, she did a beautiful job. My brother, Michael and his wife Krystal, came and spent a night with us and we had a wonderfully fun time together. With the exception of a head cold settling in on me and Krystal, it was such a fun visit and we were grateful that they spent part of their vacation time with us in our new house.
I think more than all the things we saw or did to celebrate before Christmas, I really loved all the new experiences we had, and that we were together enjoying them. We got pretty spoiled on our trip last summer and really liked having so much together time exploring and discovering new things. I think I loved all these events because they seemed kind of like an extension of those wonderful memories. It was a very busy month and lots of traveling, but these memories we made together made this a year we'll always remember.
Monday, December 27, 2010
2010: Our Year in Review
If I was into sending out Christmas letters with our postcards, I would have sent a letter that was way too long, bragged way too much about my wonderful family, and still wouldn't have even touched on the enormous amount of gratitude we feel for all we've been blessed with this year.
I do know, however, how much I love reading about all of my treasured friends and loved ones' families, so for those who took the time to search out my blog to see what we've been up to, here's our year in review (and what you would have read, had I sent out a Christmas letter this year)....
The two most exciting things we can share from 2010 is our family vaction this summer and our move this fall. We spent the first half of the year saving our pennies and in June, we packed up our Suburban to the very top (not kidding) and drove to Alaska. We spent almost a month traveling through Canada and Alaska. We drove about 8,000 miles in our car, rode to the top of the Space Needle, hiked a glacier, saw the ocean and lots of wildlife, caught our “first fish”, rode a ferry, dug up clams, played with cousins, swam in a hot spring, camped in the rain, and had many other grand adventures. We had a wonderful time together and have so many happy memories! In August, a wonderful opportunity and blessing was dropped in our lap, and we took it and moved forward with faith! We moved moved into a new pre-loved house that is just perfect for us! It has lots of room inside and out, and is absolutely beautiful! We really like our new ward, and love that we have so many new friends already. We've all adjusted pretty quickly, which helped our new house feel like "home" almost from the very first day. It's just where we're supposed to be!
Steve (our Daddy) still works for U.S. Congressman Mike Simpson. He loves his job, and also had an opportunity to help his boss get re-elected by working part-time at night and on weekends on the primary campaign. By June, he wasn't quite busy enough, so he accepted the Mayor's appointment to fill a vacant seat on the Pocatello City Council. It's been an eye-opening experience, and as much as he loves working with the other members of the board, he's really had to make some tough decisions and then stand behind what he feels is right and best for Pocatello. We're so proud of him. As entrepreneurs do, he's also found time to pad the family income with his direct mail business which helped out a lot during the campaign season (and our move) with 65,000 pieces of mail we designed, had printed, labeled, and sent out for several candidates. He has also been crazy busy this year getting our old house ready to rent, working out the little kinks in our new house, serving on a couple of other community and state boards, spending incredible quality time with his family, and tinkering in a couple of other business ventures. He was also recently called as the Cub Master in our new ward. He really likes having the opportunity to be the "funnest" 10 year-old in the ward!
Julia (Me, the Mommy) still loves being a stay-at-home mom. My kids are my life and I love that I have the opportunity to be totally involved in their activities and schools. This was also a year of change and growth for me as I discovered and learned much about myself and developed many new physical and spiritual strengths. I end the year much healthier and happier than I started it, and much more the person I want to be. I spent a few months preparing for our trip and then a few more preparing to move. It's been a crazy year, but so many blessings have been thrown our way, I know that the Lord has watched over and blessed me to be able to keep up and be the kind of mother and wife I want to be. On our 3rd Sunday in our new ward, I was called to serve as the 2nd Counselor in the Relief Society Presidency. In the short time I have served there (almost 2 months now), my heart has been changed, and I've seen the Lord's plan for our family start to unfold. As you can guess, I haven't had a lot of spare time for hobbies this year, but I still love baking, blogging, and reading, and playing with my family the most.
Sarah (17) has had a pretty good year. It's been a healthy one (heart-wise) with relatively little action in that department. She found out this year that she has a pretty severe case of Scoliosis, which has caused much more heartache and many more challenges, but takes it all in stride and remains her sweet little self. She is a senior in High school, and is beginning the new year with college and scholarship applications dancing in her head. Besides our family trip and moving, the highlight of her year was attending EFY at BYU-Idaho. It was such an amazing experience for her and she came back a changed teenager! She loves to spend time with our family, and all of her extra time with friends (live or on Facebook).
Rachel (14) has become the best traveled member of our family. In March, she went on the American Heritage Tour with other 8th Graders in the community. Her favorite things were spending time in New York City, and seeing "Wicked" on Broadway, and making so many new friends! She earned all $3,000 herself (with help from her terrific parents) and had a wonderful experience. She also started high school this year and absolutely loves it! Being in a "real school" now, she can wear make-up, "real clothes" and make many new friends. She stays busy with piano lessons (taking and teaching) and friends, and thoroughly enjoys having her own room!
Bryson (11) is in 5th Grade now and still loves school. He was recently released from his occupational therapy and had grown and matured in such amazing ways. We hardly ever see evidence of his Asperger's anymore, and his confidence is apparent in his constant smile. His drawing talent has continued to blossom as he draws everything from the most detailed dragons you've ever seen to cartoon mice with goofy grins. He absolutely loves scouts, and earned his Arrow of Light just before we moved. His new scout leaders are amazing and he is looking forward to camping and many other adventures in the spring with his new troop. With our move came a whole handful of friends just down the street, a few he already knew from school. Having so many friends to play with all the time is a new thing in his life, but just one more blessing that came with our new house.
Joshua (7) is in 2nd grade and has discovered the joy of reading. He loves non-fiction the best, and any information he can gather about space, electricity and mysteries of the natural world are the best. He still loves to take apart and build things, but has discovered a new love for science experiments. He loves to draw, too, but his drawings are usually of mechanical or body systems, or data charts from his experiments. He also loves to play the wii, run around the yard, and play with his brothers and friends.
Nathan (5) is spending his last year at home with Mom. He is such a fun boy. He spent the first part of the year being a pirate, and the last part of it being a scarecrow. He often changes several times a day, and mom has to be careful to keep up. He also loves to draw and shows much promise of following in his big brother's footsteps. He started sounding out words this fall and has recently "published" his first book, "The Wizrd of Pos." He also loves running errands with Mommy, reading books, visiting Great-Grandma Mangum, and following his brothers around and playing legos with them.
Our family has been blessed beyond measure this year, and knowing that our Heavenly Father loves and watches over us is among our greatest treasures. We are so grateful for our forever family and all the amazing things that have happened this year to help seal our bonds of love and friendship. We pray that you, our family and friends near and far, have also felt the love and blessings of God rest upon you this year. We love you and hope you all have a merry Christmas and an amazing new year!
I do know, however, how much I love reading about all of my treasured friends and loved ones' families, so for those who took the time to search out my blog to see what we've been up to, here's our year in review (and what you would have read, had I sent out a Christmas letter this year)....
The two most exciting things we can share from 2010 is our family vaction this summer and our move this fall. We spent the first half of the year saving our pennies and in June, we packed up our Suburban to the very top (not kidding) and drove to Alaska. We spent almost a month traveling through Canada and Alaska. We drove about 8,000 miles in our car, rode to the top of the Space Needle, hiked a glacier, saw the ocean and lots of wildlife, caught our “first fish”, rode a ferry, dug up clams, played with cousins, swam in a hot spring, camped in the rain, and had many other grand adventures. We had a wonderful time together and have so many happy memories! In August, a wonderful opportunity and blessing was dropped in our lap, and we took it and moved forward with faith! We moved moved into a new pre-loved house that is just perfect for us! It has lots of room inside and out, and is absolutely beautiful! We really like our new ward, and love that we have so many new friends already. We've all adjusted pretty quickly, which helped our new house feel like "home" almost from the very first day. It's just where we're supposed to be!
Steve (our Daddy) still works for U.S. Congressman Mike Simpson. He loves his job, and also had an opportunity to help his boss get re-elected by working part-time at night and on weekends on the primary campaign. By June, he wasn't quite busy enough, so he accepted the Mayor's appointment to fill a vacant seat on the Pocatello City Council. It's been an eye-opening experience, and as much as he loves working with the other members of the board, he's really had to make some tough decisions and then stand behind what he feels is right and best for Pocatello. We're so proud of him. As entrepreneurs do, he's also found time to pad the family income with his direct mail business which helped out a lot during the campaign season (and our move) with 65,000 pieces of mail we designed, had printed, labeled, and sent out for several candidates. He has also been crazy busy this year getting our old house ready to rent, working out the little kinks in our new house, serving on a couple of other community and state boards, spending incredible quality time with his family, and tinkering in a couple of other business ventures. He was also recently called as the Cub Master in our new ward. He really likes having the opportunity to be the "funnest" 10 year-old in the ward!
Julia (Me, the Mommy) still loves being a stay-at-home mom. My kids are my life and I love that I have the opportunity to be totally involved in their activities and schools. This was also a year of change and growth for me as I discovered and learned much about myself and developed many new physical and spiritual strengths. I end the year much healthier and happier than I started it, and much more the person I want to be. I spent a few months preparing for our trip and then a few more preparing to move. It's been a crazy year, but so many blessings have been thrown our way, I know that the Lord has watched over and blessed me to be able to keep up and be the kind of mother and wife I want to be. On our 3rd Sunday in our new ward, I was called to serve as the 2nd Counselor in the Relief Society Presidency. In the short time I have served there (almost 2 months now), my heart has been changed, and I've seen the Lord's plan for our family start to unfold. As you can guess, I haven't had a lot of spare time for hobbies this year, but I still love baking, blogging, and reading, and playing with my family the most.
Sarah (17) has had a pretty good year. It's been a healthy one (heart-wise) with relatively little action in that department. She found out this year that she has a pretty severe case of Scoliosis, which has caused much more heartache and many more challenges, but takes it all in stride and remains her sweet little self. She is a senior in High school, and is beginning the new year with college and scholarship applications dancing in her head. Besides our family trip and moving, the highlight of her year was attending EFY at BYU-Idaho. It was such an amazing experience for her and she came back a changed teenager! She loves to spend time with our family, and all of her extra time with friends (live or on Facebook).
Rachel (14) has become the best traveled member of our family. In March, she went on the American Heritage Tour with other 8th Graders in the community. Her favorite things were spending time in New York City, and seeing "Wicked" on Broadway, and making so many new friends! She earned all $3,000 herself (with help from her terrific parents) and had a wonderful experience. She also started high school this year and absolutely loves it! Being in a "real school" now, she can wear make-up, "real clothes" and make many new friends. She stays busy with piano lessons (taking and teaching) and friends, and thoroughly enjoys having her own room!
Bryson (11) is in 5th Grade now and still loves school. He was recently released from his occupational therapy and had grown and matured in such amazing ways. We hardly ever see evidence of his Asperger's anymore, and his confidence is apparent in his constant smile. His drawing talent has continued to blossom as he draws everything from the most detailed dragons you've ever seen to cartoon mice with goofy grins. He absolutely loves scouts, and earned his Arrow of Light just before we moved. His new scout leaders are amazing and he is looking forward to camping and many other adventures in the spring with his new troop. With our move came a whole handful of friends just down the street, a few he already knew from school. Having so many friends to play with all the time is a new thing in his life, but just one more blessing that came with our new house.
Joshua (7) is in 2nd grade and has discovered the joy of reading. He loves non-fiction the best, and any information he can gather about space, electricity and mysteries of the natural world are the best. He still loves to take apart and build things, but has discovered a new love for science experiments. He loves to draw, too, but his drawings are usually of mechanical or body systems, or data charts from his experiments. He also loves to play the wii, run around the yard, and play with his brothers and friends.
Nathan (5) is spending his last year at home with Mom. He is such a fun boy. He spent the first part of the year being a pirate, and the last part of it being a scarecrow. He often changes several times a day, and mom has to be careful to keep up. He also loves to draw and shows much promise of following in his big brother's footsteps. He started sounding out words this fall and has recently "published" his first book, "The Wizrd of Pos." He also loves running errands with Mommy, reading books, visiting Great-Grandma Mangum, and following his brothers around and playing legos with them.
Our family has been blessed beyond measure this year, and knowing that our Heavenly Father loves and watches over us is among our greatest treasures. We are so grateful for our forever family and all the amazing things that have happened this year to help seal our bonds of love and friendship. We pray that you, our family and friends near and far, have also felt the love and blessings of God rest upon you this year. We love you and hope you all have a merry Christmas and an amazing new year!
Friday, March 19, 2010
Snowshoeing with Bryson
In January, Bryson's fourth grade class went snowshoeing at the Mink Creek Nordic Center near Pocatello. Steve took the day off so I could go with Bryson's class. We had such an amazing time together. I borrowed snow gear from my sister-in-law, and for the first time in my life in Idaho, I was actually warm while being in the snow all day. First, we gathered in the yurt for instruction and then got our snowshoes. They were a lot different than we expected, nothing like the "tennis rackets" we expected from watching cartoons. We went on a hike (about 3 miles round-trip) over hills, through gullies, and across fields. The guide stopped often enough that we didn't get too tired, and taught little nature lessons throughout the hike. We also played hide and seek in a gully. It was so fun, so beautiful, and we had such a good time together. My little Bryson was such a trooper. He just kept going with an energy I hadn't seen in him before. I think it had something to do with being in nature. It must have energized him.
Trudging down the trail
Rabbit tracks in the snow Bryson spotted in a clearing
Bryson's class
A tree-chair we just HAD to try out
After the hike, we went back to the yurt and had lunch. Then we went back outside and the grown-ups (the old tired adults) watched the kids play games in the snow... tundra, fox and geese, and capture the flag. The grown-ups were actually recruited for the last game, and that's when I was exhausted. Imagine a 37 year-old, running through the snow in snow bibs and boots trying to catch 10 year-old boys... Yeah. I was pretty sore. But, it was a glorious day and such a great time with my Bryson boy!
Trudging down the trail
Rabbit tracks in the snow Bryson spotted in a clearing
Bryson's class
A tree-chair we just HAD to try out
Friday, January 29, 2010
The Adventures of "FATMAN"
Last night, Bryson and I were in the kitchen doing homework, and Nathan came in with a cape and a stretchy fabric book cover (for his head) and asked me to put it on him so he could be Batman. (The corners of the book cover poke up like little bat ears. It's pretty funny.) Well, he doesn't exactly say "Batman". It sounds much more like "Fatman". After he left, we laughed and the conversation turned to what a superhero named "Fatman" would do. In light of my recent struggle with climbing over my "weighloss wall", I decided he should save me from eating too much chocolate. We had a good laugh about it, acting out how it would all go down. After his homework was done, Bryson drew me the first-ever authentic Adventures of "Fatman" comic strip. It is with much pride that I post it here for all of you to enjoy. (Please disregard the capital letters and bad spelling. My son is much more articulate in the drawing than the writing!! I also wanted you to notice that the "madam" in the cartoon is eating a chocolate bar, and Fatman's hat is a chocolate kiss.) Sure do love that special little boy!!
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Christmas 2009
As we reflected on the past year, we realized, with much gratitude and joy, the great blessings Heavenly Father has granted us. We are employed, healthy, and happy. What morecould we want? We have enjoyed many special moments together and marvel at the blessings and miracles we are granted daily. Through our successes and struggles, we are more aware and grateful for what we have: a most amazing family.
Steve just finished his 2nd year working for the U.S. House of Representatives for Congressman Mike Simpson. He runs the office here and represents Mike at meetings and ceremonies. It has been a great experience for him as he's able to set his own schedule, work with wonderful people, and make connections with people all over southeast Idaho. He also serves on two community economic development boards, one as the chairman. He took somewhat of a "break" from local politics this year, determining to spend more time with our family. It's been marvelous for us. However, politics is "in his blood", and he still meets regularly with local Republicans. He currently serves on the Stake High Council, and we joke about dad "going to his church", but he usually takes at least one week a month to come sit by us at ours. His entrepreneurial spirit is still alive and well. He spent much of the year taking courses on internet marketing, looking at some avenues for a business that "runs itself". Through success we had in some direct mail pieces we created and sent out for a couple of friends, a new idea was born, and he's most currently working on a direct mail business. He's a wonderful daddy and husband, patient, funny and so supportive. We love him more than we can express!
I spent the year being the mom. Running kids wherever, volunteering many hours at the school as the PTO secretary and in classrooms, helping my boys with their homework, doing 323 loads of laundry, making 1,089 meals, and cleaning up the house too many times to count. I really love being a stay at home mom. I serve as the Stake Young Women President, which comes with the perks of working with awesome youth leaders (and their adult leaders) on things like youth conference and girls camp. The summers are pretty crazy, but I get to attend those stake activities with my girls and love the special testimony-building moments we have together there. When I make time for me, I love reading, blogging, card making, baking and spending time with my kids and sweetheart.
Sarah has had a great year this year. With a low-fat diet and handfuls of medicine, her health has improved dramatically. She feels so much better most of the time which has greatly increased her spirits, too. She is a Junior at Century High School this year, only missing a handful of days so far. She turned 16 and attended her first big dance this fall. She has a great group of friends now, and spends her time doing what teenagers do (whew...finally!). She likes to be with her friends, a good book, her mp3 player, Facebook, and the guy she attended the dance with (not necessarily in that order). She's recently found a new hidden talent in the choir at school and loves to help in the kitchen. She's in the Laurel class presidency at church and is a great example of faith and goodness.
Rachel has spent her year fulfilling her dream of going on the American Heritage Tour with the 8th graders in the community next spring. She decided last spring that she really wanted to go, and after Steve told her we couldn't afford it (over $2500), she moped for a couple of hours. He let her, then talked to her about ways that SHE could afford it. She put her mind to doing just that. Within a week, she had 6 children lined up for piano lessons, several babysitting jobs in the wings, a yard sale scheduled, and plans for a hand-delivered coupon packet (daddy's specialty) during the summer. She worked really hard, and by the time school started in the fall, she had earned $2100 of her money. She turned 13 this summer, traded her glasses in for contacts, started wearing make-up, and turned into a beautiful young woman overnight. She also serves in her Beehive class presidency. She loves to play the piano, read, write on her blog, and be with her friends. She's pretty excited to be at a public high school next year and wear "normal clothes" to school again. With all her drive and self-discipline, it's been so fun to watch her grow and mature.
Bryson had a pretty life-altering year this year. After so many struggles with school and some hard times at home, we finally found out that he has Asperger's Syndrome, one of the high-functioning autism spectrum disorders. So since summer, we spend our days in rigid routines, going to psycho and occupational therapy, encouraging social and physical experiences, and loving and enjoying our sweet boy with new eyes and hearts. He has responded well, and with his new accommodations at school and home, is thriving. He is still an incredible artist and loves to draw. He recently discovered that he kind of likes to read, too. He loves prehistoric creatures, ancient civilizations, and any animal that's ever existed (and some that haven't). He also loves cub scouts and just beams with pride when he earns his awards. Bryson is my special buddy, loving and sweet, tender and quiet, and good all the way through.
Joshua has decided this year that he prefers to be called Josh. (I think it's because it's faster to write.) But, he's still the same sweet, cute, cuddly kid he's always been. His darling little smile has saved his life on many occasions, as he's still our busiest, most inquisitive child. He builds traps, tears things apart, wrestles with his dad, and comes up with the most amazing things most of us couldn't even fathom. It is fun to watch his face light up when he finishes reading a book, or gets his spelling words right. He's excited to be in school all day, but is still practicing just paying attention and sitting still. He's a cuddle, a laugh, and a wildly vibrating ray of sunshine.
Nathan is such a fun little boy. He's very intrigued with letters and numbers and also loves to draw. He and Mom spend a lot more time together alone and we've become such good friends. He loves to go run errands with mom, play on the computer, read stories, watch movies, do puzzles, and make play dough "cookies". He is usually very loving and sweet, but has practiced his different moods and independent thinking a lot more this year. He's really grown up a lot, and has become quite a strong-willed little boy. He makes us smile all the time with his funny little antics, and has decided lately that he's either a pirate (aargghh!) or Santa Claus (ho ho ho!), complete with costume. We're so grateful he's in our family, too.
We have been so abundantly blessed this year, but among our greatest treasures is our wonderful family and the incredible blessing that we can be together forever. We couldn't stand it any other way.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Halloween with Mystery, Inc.
This Halloween's costumes were inspired by a cute little dog costume I bought at our school yard sale last August for Nathan. Since the girls are a little too big to do the whole Halloween and Trick-or-Treating thing, I thought we should have them all be the Scooby Doo gang. That way, the girls could dress up, too, and help the boys for me! Besides, the boys love to watch the old Scooby Doo cartoons. They all loved the idea and we went searching for clothes and accessories to make it work. Both the other boys had clothes that worked great, and for the girls, we hit three different thrift stores and Wal-Mart, and borrowed a few accessories from a friend, and had everything we needed. I was so excited with the way their costumes turned out, and the kids all loved them. Bryson had a brilliant idea that Steve and I should dress up as the "Mystery Machine", but we declined. Sarah, Bryson and Joshua all won movie tickets in the costume contest at the school carnival, and we got a lot of comments. Joshua's yellow hair ended up being a nice neon green, and Rachel's red hair spray ended up all over everything in the bathroom, but it was so cute, and so worth cleaning up the mess!!
Freddy (Josh), Shaggy (Bryson), and Scooby Doo (Nathan)
Velma (Sarah) and Daphne (Rachel)
The whole gang from Mystery, Inc.Scooby-dooby-doo!!!
Monday, November 9, 2009
Family Pictures 2009
We haven't had our family pictures taken since Joshua was about 6 months old. Yeah, six years ago. Well, we wanted a bunch of fun pictures and didn't want to spend our life savings, so David spent the good part of a Saturday in October taking our family pictures. He has a new hobby in photography and is really very good. This was his first "Family Portrait" shoot, except for his own, so we all learned some things. We had four locations in mind, but we started out pretty cold, and then the sun came up pretty fast and made things a little more complicated with the shadows and light. He took about 260 shots, and we hoped a few of them turned out okay. With that many people, you always have somebody blinking, not looking, talking, or crying. Well, he got many more than a few good ones, and I am so happy with what we ended up with. Actually, there are too many to choose. I might just make a collage for the wall instead. There are just so many that are so fun! I love my brother and am so grateful for his willingness to do this for us!!
Saturday, November 7, 2009
That's Progress...
One Saturday, a couple of weeks ago, we had one of those days where we went from one thing to another and then I crammed Halloween costume shopping into all the little spots in between. I picked up Bryson from a birthday party, where he had a wonderful time. Then, instead of going home, we parked at the church parking lot. Our family was assigned to clean the building that day, and were already late, so I just planned to meet Steve and the other kids there. Well, I had forgotten to notify my son that we had other things planned for his afternoon, and this surprise really didn't sit well with him. His Asperger's responses kicked in and he asked in a pretty angry voice, "What are we doing here?" I answered that we were there to clean the church. He folded his arms, glared at me through his knit eyebrows, and said, "You didn't tell me. I'm not going." Well, I tried not to stay calm, and just apologized for forgetting to tell him, and told him he could stay in the car, but we were here until the work was done, and I was going in to help. I locked him in, and went into the church. I secretly checked to make sure he was safe out there, but he sat like that for quite some time.
After a while, I saw him slink into the building and with an embarrassed smirk on his face, he told me he had to come in to go to the bathroom. After he was done, he stayed and helped clean the bathrooms and vacuumed. On the way home, I thanked him for his help and as I put my arm around him, I asked, "So, was that really so bad?" He looked down at his feet and said, "No, Mom. I was wrong. It was okay. Sorry." We talked about how good it makes you feel to be helping others and showing our gratitude for the nice church we have to meet in. It took me a few days to realize how much his simple admission must have cost him, and how much it really meant. He admitted (without my prodding or "guilting") that he was wrong and that he was sorry for his behavior. He recognized that it was not acceptable, and not the correct way to respond to that situation. I know he was frustrated, and probably had much different plans for his day. I should have remembered how important it is to prepare him for those things. But I was so impressed with his thoughts during our short conversation in the car on the way home. I think that's what I'd call progress.... Boy, I sure do love that kid!
After a while, I saw him slink into the building and with an embarrassed smirk on his face, he told me he had to come in to go to the bathroom. After he was done, he stayed and helped clean the bathrooms and vacuumed. On the way home, I thanked him for his help and as I put my arm around him, I asked, "So, was that really so bad?" He looked down at his feet and said, "No, Mom. I was wrong. It was okay. Sorry." We talked about how good it makes you feel to be helping others and showing our gratitude for the nice church we have to meet in. It took me a few days to realize how much his simple admission must have cost him, and how much it really meant. He admitted (without my prodding or "guilting") that he was wrong and that he was sorry for his behavior. He recognized that it was not acceptable, and not the correct way to respond to that situation. I know he was frustrated, and probably had much different plans for his day. I should have remembered how important it is to prepare him for those things. But I was so impressed with his thoughts during our short conversation in the car on the way home. I think that's what I'd call progress.... Boy, I sure do love that kid!
Monday, November 2, 2009
Hours in Line for H1N1 Flu Shots
Sarah's cardiologist confirmed what the pediatrician told us...that she really had to have an H1N1 (Swine Flu) Shot. Originally, we weren't planning on getting one for any of us. Something to do with a government-infused scare tactics, not enough testing, more problems with the vaccine than the flu...yadda, yadda, yadda. Anyway, we figured we'd be careful, sanitize, and be fine. Well, with both doctors telling us she needed one, we figured Bryson should probably have one, too. And because they're both high risk (with Sarah's compromised immune system because of her heart problems, no spleen, and PLE, and Bryson's asthma), the other kids should probably get them too. We've always had our kids immunized, and never been crazies who refuse shots that could protect our kids, so we figured we better just do it.
The health department was having H1N1 flu shot clinics in Pocatello a couple of weeks ago. They had to cancel one because their shipment of vaccine was less than they expected. So, at the only clinic in October (and the only place the vaccine was available) people started lining up 6 hours before the clinic began. We were beginning to get a little paranoid about how to make sure we got Sarah's shot, until my mom called earlier in the day to say that if we brought her by the school (it was happening at the school where she works) at a certain time, that she could get in line to get one with her. Steve went and checked her out of school, sent her in to meet Grandma and then got in line to save the rest of us a place. We were in line, all the way around the church across the street, by 3:15, and worked on homework on the sidewalk, whined about being bored, and tried to calm the ones that had just figured out why we were there. It was fun.... okay, not really. We stood in line for 3 1/2 hours before we were able to get the kids their shots.
We did have a little excitement, though. Some wonderful Domino's Pizza owner had his drivers come around 5:00 with a whole bunch of pizzas that he was passing out to different sections of the line. I couldn't believe how generous and thoughtful that was. There were so many tired and hungry kids and pregnant mommies, it was very appreciated. About 15 minutes 'til the front of the line, the news station asked to inteview me, and I had yet another 5 seconds of fame. (Couldn't find a clip this time, though.) When we got to the front of the line, the nurse confirmed that the kids would all have to get shots since they had so recently had their seasonal flu vaccines, and Josh fell apart on me. He thought he was getting the nasal spray again. They all did fine, though, and we stopped at K&B and let them each choose a candy bar for their reward. Poor kids. We're such mean parents. I really hope it was a good thing to get the vaccines and it really will protect my kids from harm. We're still really going through the soap and sanitizer, though!!
The health department was having H1N1 flu shot clinics in Pocatello a couple of weeks ago. They had to cancel one because their shipment of vaccine was less than they expected. So, at the only clinic in October (and the only place the vaccine was available) people started lining up 6 hours before the clinic began. We were beginning to get a little paranoid about how to make sure we got Sarah's shot, until my mom called earlier in the day to say that if we brought her by the school (it was happening at the school where she works) at a certain time, that she could get in line to get one with her. Steve went and checked her out of school, sent her in to meet Grandma and then got in line to save the rest of us a place. We were in line, all the way around the church across the street, by 3:15, and worked on homework on the sidewalk, whined about being bored, and tried to calm the ones that had just figured out why we were there. It was fun.... okay, not really. We stood in line for 3 1/2 hours before we were able to get the kids their shots.
We did have a little excitement, though. Some wonderful Domino's Pizza owner had his drivers come around 5:00 with a whole bunch of pizzas that he was passing out to different sections of the line. I couldn't believe how generous and thoughtful that was. There were so many tired and hungry kids and pregnant mommies, it was very appreciated. About 15 minutes 'til the front of the line, the news station asked to inteview me, and I had yet another 5 seconds of fame. (Couldn't find a clip this time, though.) When we got to the front of the line, the nurse confirmed that the kids would all have to get shots since they had so recently had their seasonal flu vaccines, and Josh fell apart on me. He thought he was getting the nasal spray again. They all did fine, though, and we stopped at K&B and let them each choose a candy bar for their reward. Poor kids. We're such mean parents. I really hope it was a good thing to get the vaccines and it really will protect my kids from harm. We're still really going through the soap and sanitizer, though!!
Sunday, November 1, 2009
An Alien Invasion on Bryson's Birthday
Bryson turned 10 on Monday, October 12th. He was out of school for his Fall Break, so we invited 10 of his friends from school, and had a birthday party. He helped me plan the whole thing, from the theme to the invitations, to the games and treats. 
He wanted to do an "alien" party (one of his greatest interests at the moment) and drew pictures for his invitations. We decorated with lime green crepe paper and Bryson drew alien faces on all of the green balloons. At the party, we made Alien masks, played "Alien Battles" (2-person contest requirement in his bear cub scouts book), musical chairs (with alien pictures Bryson drew on each chair and alien music), and a sculpture contest with alien goo (bright green kool-aid playdough). Bryson and Rachel helped me create the cute little UFO cookies we passed out for treats. The gray frosting was a little tricky, but they turned out so perfect! All but a couple of his friends were able to come, and they had a great time! Prizes were rubber aliens and body parts candy. They had so much fun! I was so grateful Rachel (and her friend Ellie) helped at the party. I was so surprised to see how big all of these boys have gotten over the last three years they've been at the charter school together. They really filled up my house. They were so excited about their presents for him and were all so grateful, polite and kind. Bryson was the most grateful little alien at the party. What a sweetheart.
That night, we had his favorite dinner...waffles! Grandma and Grandpa Dixon and David and Valarie and their kids came over for dessert that night. We had hot fudge pudding cake that Rachel actually made for him. It was sooo yummy! We had to cram all 10 candles into his ice cream so the hot fudge wouldn't melt the wax candles.
He got lots of treasures and we got lots of hugs. He was so grateful and so sweet. It was worth all the time and energy to see that huge smile and get so many hugs and thank-yous for so many days afterward.
He wanted to do an "alien" party (one of his greatest interests at the moment) and drew pictures for his invitations. We decorated with lime green crepe paper and Bryson drew alien faces on all of the green balloons. At the party, we made Alien masks, played "Alien Battles" (2-person contest requirement in his bear cub scouts book), musical chairs (with alien pictures Bryson drew on each chair and alien music), and a sculpture contest with alien goo (bright green kool-aid playdough). Bryson and Rachel helped me create the cute little UFO cookies we passed out for treats. The gray frosting was a little tricky, but they turned out so perfect! All but a couple of his friends were able to come, and they had a great time! Prizes were rubber aliens and body parts candy. They had so much fun! I was so grateful Rachel (and her friend Ellie) helped at the party. I was so surprised to see how big all of these boys have gotten over the last three years they've been at the charter school together. They really filled up my house. They were so excited about their presents for him and were all so grateful, polite and kind. Bryson was the most grateful little alien at the party. What a sweetheart.
That night, we had his favorite dinner...waffles! Grandma and Grandpa Dixon and David and Valarie and their kids came over for dessert that night. We had hot fudge pudding cake that Rachel actually made for him. It was sooo yummy! We had to cram all 10 candles into his ice cream so the hot fudge wouldn't melt the wax candles.
He got lots of treasures and we got lots of hugs. He was so grateful and so sweet. It was worth all the time and energy to see that huge smile and get so many hugs and thank-yous for so many days afterward.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Life After the Diagnosis
It's been about 8 months since Bryson was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome. Some days I can totally forget that there's anything different about him, and think we were hasty in seeking a diagnosis. Other days, I'm so grateful to finally have an explanation and some tools to help us be able to help him through this adventure we call life.
After waiting forever for the doctor to send referrals and get appointments set up for us with therapists, we finally bypassed him and with the help of his nurse, we started some therapy. Bryson went to his first Occupational Therapy appointment in August, the week I was gone to girls camp. Steve took him in and they started the assessment process. His therapist is a cute and sweet girl (probably in her late 20's) named Tonja. It is so fun to watch how she interacts with him. At their first appointment, she told Bryson that she loved his name and when she has a little boy, she wants to name him that. (Her last name is Brown, too.) Bryson beamed. Through the evaluation, we learned that there were some things that she can help us with, mostly related to gross motor skills and building the large muscle groups. She gave us some tips to deal with homework time and some information about Sensory Diet and how to help him with his sensory needs. There is so much to learn. First, we let him go outside and jump on the neighbor's trampoline for about a half hour. She taught us that since he's spent so much time at school trying to focus, he's probably really burned out and needs to use his large muscles to kick his mind back into gear. Through the sensory information, we also discovered some music that he loves to listen to with a steady quick rhythm to keep him going at a reasonable pace.
The miracle occurred after the first week of school, and now homework time isn't nearly the nightmare it was last year. It still requires preparation and focus on my part, but we've made significant strides. I'm not sure if it's the maturity I've seen developing in him, the new desk arrangement for homework time, the "homework helpers" (small reward treats), the beat of his new favorite music, or the exercise prior to homework time, but something (maybe a combination of all of it) has clicked, and he works hard until the chore is done. He works so much more independently and sticks to it until we can sign it all off. I can tell that he's really trying and I tell him almost every day how much I appreciate his hard work and amazing focus.
About 5 weeks ago, we went back to visit the psychologist to talk about some therapy that the pediatrician recommended to help with stress management and relaxation techniques. He refereed us to Renee and we started seeing her, too. She assessed the needs based on his original diagnosis report, and the things I shared with her, and by observing and talking to Bryson. She's already taught him some breathing and relaxation techniques (using sensory reminders) that will help him be more "grounded" and focused for homework time. We haven't had to use them yet, but she taught them to me, too, so we could do them together. She spends time with me (or Steve) alone, or with Bryson, to discuss issues that come up and offer ideas and insight to help us better deal with the hard situations.
At our last session, she taught me the importance of focusing on praising his effort, rather than the whole. We had a situation during that week where I was correcting some of his spelling and the "criticism" was just too much. He shut down. When I got him back and talking to me, he told me that he felt stupid and hated that he makes mistakes. I realized at that moment how damaging my "help" was to him, but was worried also because I don't want him to get his homework back with everything marked wrong. I can see how damaging that could be, too. So, I asked Renee how to help and correct him without criticizing. She told me that in our society we focus on the end result as being "good" or "bad", "right" or "wrong" and that for kids like Bryson, he needs to know that each step of the way is a battle he is winning. She suggested that I praise his straight lines, nice handwriting, or the creative sentence and then ask him if he can see something that's not correct in the sentence (or problem). I tried it the next day, and realized how turning it into a game, and having him find the mistakes himself was a much better way to help him learn. I also realized in our discussion that his very literal mind hadn't completely grasped the "rules" or concepts in the assignment. The assignment was to "choose 7 spelling words and write 7 sentences." To you and I, that also includes application of the understood rules of proper grammar, spelling, capitalizaiton, and punctuation in those 7 sentences. Yet, every sentence he wrote started with a lower case letter and had misspelled words (including his chosen spelling words). It's amazing what you can learn when you step outside of the moment and look at things from an AS mind. We approached that and a couple of other issues with his teacher in his IEP meeting.
We had the IEP (Individual Education Plan) meeting a week or so ago. We feel so blessed that he is able to attend The Academy, where the environment of the school already addresses much of what Bryson needs. We brought up the thought of giving speific guidelines to each assignment and the teacher agreed that it would probaly help all of her students to have that reminder. We talked about having short-term assignments written out for him to better pace himself with the long-term assignments. His special ed teacher suggested that homework shouldn't take as long as it does, so we also made accommodations for his math homework (when appropriate) to be written out for him, so he can focus on working the problems rather than the transfer of information. He also gets to do his "mad minutes" math facts with flash cards instead of on the paper for the same reasons. We also talked about how note taking is so tedious for him with this stuggle between transfer and processing information and asked that a copy of the teacher's notes be provided so I can help him at home to make sure he has all the right informaiton on his study guides and worksheets. He will also be receiving OT at school once a week to reinforce the activity goals that Tonya has begun.
I'm so excited about the progress we've made, the special alone moments and talks I've had with him driving to and from therapy, and the much-needed help we're getting for him and us. I feel like things are moving at a nice even roll now, and that we have many more tools and resources to help us work through the bumps. He's such a special kid with so much to offer and I love him and his special little self sooo much!
After waiting forever for the doctor to send referrals and get appointments set up for us with therapists, we finally bypassed him and with the help of his nurse, we started some therapy. Bryson went to his first Occupational Therapy appointment in August, the week I was gone to girls camp. Steve took him in and they started the assessment process. His therapist is a cute and sweet girl (probably in her late 20's) named Tonja. It is so fun to watch how she interacts with him. At their first appointment, she told Bryson that she loved his name and when she has a little boy, she wants to name him that. (Her last name is Brown, too.) Bryson beamed. Through the evaluation, we learned that there were some things that she can help us with, mostly related to gross motor skills and building the large muscle groups. She gave us some tips to deal with homework time and some information about Sensory Diet and how to help him with his sensory needs. There is so much to learn. First, we let him go outside and jump on the neighbor's trampoline for about a half hour. She taught us that since he's spent so much time at school trying to focus, he's probably really burned out and needs to use his large muscles to kick his mind back into gear. Through the sensory information, we also discovered some music that he loves to listen to with a steady quick rhythm to keep him going at a reasonable pace.
The miracle occurred after the first week of school, and now homework time isn't nearly the nightmare it was last year. It still requires preparation and focus on my part, but we've made significant strides. I'm not sure if it's the maturity I've seen developing in him, the new desk arrangement for homework time, the "homework helpers" (small reward treats), the beat of his new favorite music, or the exercise prior to homework time, but something (maybe a combination of all of it) has clicked, and he works hard until the chore is done. He works so much more independently and sticks to it until we can sign it all off. I can tell that he's really trying and I tell him almost every day how much I appreciate his hard work and amazing focus.
About 5 weeks ago, we went back to visit the psychologist to talk about some therapy that the pediatrician recommended to help with stress management and relaxation techniques. He refereed us to Renee and we started seeing her, too. She assessed the needs based on his original diagnosis report, and the things I shared with her, and by observing and talking to Bryson. She's already taught him some breathing and relaxation techniques (using sensory reminders) that will help him be more "grounded" and focused for homework time. We haven't had to use them yet, but she taught them to me, too, so we could do them together. She spends time with me (or Steve) alone, or with Bryson, to discuss issues that come up and offer ideas and insight to help us better deal with the hard situations.
At our last session, she taught me the importance of focusing on praising his effort, rather than the whole. We had a situation during that week where I was correcting some of his spelling and the "criticism" was just too much. He shut down. When I got him back and talking to me, he told me that he felt stupid and hated that he makes mistakes. I realized at that moment how damaging my "help" was to him, but was worried also because I don't want him to get his homework back with everything marked wrong. I can see how damaging that could be, too. So, I asked Renee how to help and correct him without criticizing. She told me that in our society we focus on the end result as being "good" or "bad", "right" or "wrong" and that for kids like Bryson, he needs to know that each step of the way is a battle he is winning. She suggested that I praise his straight lines, nice handwriting, or the creative sentence and then ask him if he can see something that's not correct in the sentence (or problem). I tried it the next day, and realized how turning it into a game, and having him find the mistakes himself was a much better way to help him learn. I also realized in our discussion that his very literal mind hadn't completely grasped the "rules" or concepts in the assignment. The assignment was to "choose 7 spelling words and write 7 sentences." To you and I, that also includes application of the understood rules of proper grammar, spelling, capitalizaiton, and punctuation in those 7 sentences. Yet, every sentence he wrote started with a lower case letter and had misspelled words (including his chosen spelling words). It's amazing what you can learn when you step outside of the moment and look at things from an AS mind. We approached that and a couple of other issues with his teacher in his IEP meeting.
We had the IEP (Individual Education Plan) meeting a week or so ago. We feel so blessed that he is able to attend The Academy, where the environment of the school already addresses much of what Bryson needs. We brought up the thought of giving speific guidelines to each assignment and the teacher agreed that it would probaly help all of her students to have that reminder. We talked about having short-term assignments written out for him to better pace himself with the long-term assignments. His special ed teacher suggested that homework shouldn't take as long as it does, so we also made accommodations for his math homework (when appropriate) to be written out for him, so he can focus on working the problems rather than the transfer of information. He also gets to do his "mad minutes" math facts with flash cards instead of on the paper for the same reasons. We also talked about how note taking is so tedious for him with this stuggle between transfer and processing information and asked that a copy of the teacher's notes be provided so I can help him at home to make sure he has all the right informaiton on his study guides and worksheets. He will also be receiving OT at school once a week to reinforce the activity goals that Tonya has begun.
I'm so excited about the progress we've made, the special alone moments and talks I've had with him driving to and from therapy, and the much-needed help we're getting for him and us. I feel like things are moving at a nice even roll now, and that we have many more tools and resources to help us work through the bumps. He's such a special kid with so much to offer and I love him and his special little self sooo much!
A Bear and Two Arrow Points
After cramming a few family home evenings with "character connections", letter writing, and family outdoor games, a few talks with dad, and a soap carving of a semi-truck, Bryson finished all the requirements for his Bear Award in Cub Scouts! He worked right up until the last possible minute to get it at Pack Meeting a couple of weeks ago. He was so proud! When he dropped his book off at the scout leader's house, he held up his hand for a high-five, and grinned the whole night. He worked really hard and also earned a gold and silver arrow point.
Admiring the Bear and Arrow Point Patches
Pinning on the Mother's Pin
(Good practice for those corsages on Prom Night!)
Bryson and Andrew (a fellow scouter) both received exactly the same awards that night!
Admiring the Bear and Arrow Point Patches
Pinning on the Mother's Pin(Good practice for those corsages on Prom Night!)
Bryson and Andrew (a fellow scouter) both received exactly the same awards that night!He still has a couple of weeks until his birthday and is trying to get at least one more arrow point. I love how cub scouts gives him something to look forward to each week and an opportunity to work toward lots of small goals. The pride he feels when he completes requirements for each of his major awards just shines in his face. It's so good for him, and makes his mom (and dad) so proud! Way to go, Buddy!
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Back into the Swing of Things...
Well, we've been back in school for... a month for my Charter School kids, and 3 weeks for my Junior at Century High School. Yeah, I can't believe she's that old, either. Rachel is in 8th, Bryson 4th and Joshua 1st grade. I can't believe any of them are that old. The first day of school was pretty exciting. Sarah was still sleeping (she still had another week of summer break), Rachel was spending record time in the bathroom with the spiral curling iron, and the boys were dressed by 7:10 and making their sack lunches in the kitchen. Nathan was all caught up in the excitement, too, making his own lunch and packing his "pack-pack". (Sarah and I had to take him to the park to eat his packed lunch that day.)
Joshua, Rachel and Bryson on the first day of school
August 14th, 2009
...And Nathan on their first day of school...
Sarah's first day of school
August 20th, 2009
So, after a month, how are things going? Bryson had a major homework meltdown and Joshua had a little period of "bad choices" at school the first week, but everyone seems to have settled in and is doing great now! ...Whew! We love the kids' teachers, the new administrators at the charter school, and the new routine that comes with school schedules. Rachel's life changed a little bit this year with some of her good friends leaving to the traditional jr. high, and the new homework load of 8th grade. But, she's been busy, involved in student council and mostly happy. Sarah has only had one "sick day" so far, and we're thrilled that she's enjoying her classes and strengthening friendships. Nathan and I hang out all day at home (if we're lucky) and plan to have lots of trips to the library for storytime and special mommy-time at home. All in all, I'd say school is going great, and things are good. I'm holding my breath that life won't get much crazier and that homework time won't put me in a mental hospital this year!
Baby Blues is one of my favorite cartoons. Steve clips it out for me at least once every couple of weeks as it seems to apply so directly to my crazy mommy-life with my great kids! This was one he cut out last Spring, during burn-out season, but it also seems so applicable now....
Joshua, Rachel and Bryson on the first day of schoolAugust 14th, 2009
...And Nathan on their first day of school...
Sarah's first day of schoolAugust 20th, 2009
So, after a month, how are things going? Bryson had a major homework meltdown and Joshua had a little period of "bad choices" at school the first week, but everyone seems to have settled in and is doing great now! ...Whew! We love the kids' teachers, the new administrators at the charter school, and the new routine that comes with school schedules. Rachel's life changed a little bit this year with some of her good friends leaving to the traditional jr. high, and the new homework load of 8th grade. But, she's been busy, involved in student council and mostly happy. Sarah has only had one "sick day" so far, and we're thrilled that she's enjoying her classes and strengthening friendships. Nathan and I hang out all day at home (if we're lucky) and plan to have lots of trips to the library for storytime and special mommy-time at home. All in all, I'd say school is going great, and things are good. I'm holding my breath that life won't get much crazier and that homework time won't put me in a mental hospital this year!
Baby Blues is one of my favorite cartoons. Steve clips it out for me at least once every couple of weeks as it seems to apply so directly to my crazy mommy-life with my great kids! This was one he cut out last Spring, during burn-out season, but it also seems so applicable now....
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Pioneer Day Celebration
Pioneer children sang as they walked, and walked, and walked....
Sarah and Rachel walked with the float in the Pioneer Day Parade and held signs with some of the other young women in our ward. They were wearing cute little blow-up alligator swimming floaties around their waists. Of course, Sarah thought they were cute and funny, and Rachel was embarrassed to death. We brought the quick shade and lawn chairs and found a pretty non-populated spot on Center Street with friendly and polite neighbors. It was really fun this year. After the parade, we did our usual run up to the fairgrounds to fight the crowds and heat and stood in line to get our traditional Pioneer Day lunch: hamburgers or hot dogs and corn on the cob, watermelon, and snowcones. Yum! That's what summer's all about. It was really hot that day, and I opted to hold everything while Steve took the boys into the petting zoo. When they were done, we made a bee-line to the car before they noticed anything else to do or eat.
We got home and Steve was watering the plants in the front yard. Rachel opened her water bottle and dumped it down his shirt. Pretty soon, there was an all-out waterfight going on in the front yard, and my poor husband was without his hose. A few minutes later, I heard footsteps on the roof and Steve opened fire with the backyard hose. Rachel didn't stand a chance.
Sarah and I were hiding and laughing on the porch, using picture-taking as my excuse so I could stay dry. Before I knew it, he bent the hose around the roof and squirted me and Sarah down. So, of course we joined the fun. Afterall, we had to get him back! We all had a great time, except Josh, who loved being the hose guy and squirting everyone when they came to fill up their buckets and pitchers, but cried everytime somebody dumped it over his head. We finally got smart and gave him an umbrella as a shield and had him sit on the sandbox and watch.
After an hour of drowning each other, we called a truce so we could all clean up and dry off. Of course, we did have to stop and pose for a picture first. What a fun, fun day! Spontaneous moments are usually the the stuff great memories are made of!
Sarah and Rachel walked with the float in the Pioneer Day Parade and held signs with some of the other young women in our ward. They were wearing cute little blow-up alligator swimming floaties around their waists. Of course, Sarah thought they were cute and funny, and Rachel was embarrassed to death. We brought the quick shade and lawn chairs and found a pretty non-populated spot on Center Street with friendly and polite neighbors. It was really fun this year. After the parade, we did our usual run up to the fairgrounds to fight the crowds and heat and stood in line to get our traditional Pioneer Day lunch: hamburgers or hot dogs and corn on the cob, watermelon, and snowcones. Yum! That's what summer's all about. It was really hot that day, and I opted to hold everything while Steve took the boys into the petting zoo. When they were done, we made a bee-line to the car before they noticed anything else to do or eat.
We got home and Steve was watering the plants in the front yard. Rachel opened her water bottle and dumped it down his shirt. Pretty soon, there was an all-out waterfight going on in the front yard, and my poor husband was without his hose. A few minutes later, I heard footsteps on the roof and Steve opened fire with the backyard hose. Rachel didn't stand a chance.
Sarah and I were hiding and laughing on the porch, using picture-taking as my excuse so I could stay dry. Before I knew it, he bent the hose around the roof and squirted me and Sarah down. So, of course we joined the fun. Afterall, we had to get him back! We all had a great time, except Josh, who loved being the hose guy and squirting everyone when they came to fill up their buckets and pitchers, but cried everytime somebody dumped it over his head. We finally got smart and gave him an umbrella as a shield and had him sit on the sandbox and watch.
After an hour of drowning each other, we called a truce so we could all clean up and dry off. Of course, we did have to stop and pose for a picture first. What a fun, fun day! Spontaneous moments are usually the the stuff great memories are made of!
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Scenic River Classic: The Day of the Race
Development Workshop, Inc. in Idaho Falls holds the Scenic River Classic each year to raise money for their programs. My dad works there, and because he's always bragging about his kids and their abilities, he told them I would submit some t-shirt logos to the company to use for the race. I did, and after some adjustments, here's what they used for the t-shirts. I'm glad my dad is so proud of my abilities. I wouldn't very often volunteer to do that kind of thing without his "nudging".
I walked the 5K with my mom and dad, my brother David ran the 10K, and Byrson, Josh and Kyle (David's son) ran the Kids' 1-Mile. I came in just under an hour, rounding the corner to the finish line the same time David did. It was interesting to learn that he runs exactly twice as fast as I walk. It's a beautiful course, around the Greenbelt (the river and waterfall area) by the temple. The kids' run was at a nearby park. Steve brought Sarah and Nathan up to Idaho Falls to watch and cheer us on.
Bryson heading for the finish line
Joshua finishing his race
Me and my cute little runners
After the races, they give out free slabs of Great Harvest bread and Farr's ice cream cones. Bryson wore his medal all day with such pride. It was really cute. It was one of those days that you go to bed feeling good that you did something to help. I hope we can afford for more of our family to participate next year.
On the way home, we did our usual trip over to feed (and chase) the ducks and geese by the river. Josh saved his free bread slab especially to feed to the birds. Glad they liked it. (Hope whole wheat bread doesn't do weird things to a goose's system.)
I walked the 5K with my mom and dad, my brother David ran the 10K, and Byrson, Josh and Kyle (David's son) ran the Kids' 1-Mile. I came in just under an hour, rounding the corner to the finish line the same time David did. It was interesting to learn that he runs exactly twice as fast as I walk. It's a beautiful course, around the Greenbelt (the river and waterfall area) by the temple. The kids' run was at a nearby park. Steve brought Sarah and Nathan up to Idaho Falls to watch and cheer us on.
Bryson heading for the finish line
Joshua finishing his race
Me and my cute little runnersOn the way home, we did our usual trip over to feed (and chase) the ducks and geese by the river. Josh saved his free bread slab especially to feed to the birds. Glad they liked it. (Hope whole wheat bread doesn't do weird things to a goose's system.)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)