The Latest Happenings

Wow! This past week has been a bit crazy for us. I had been noticing Rachel kind of zone out for a few seconds now and then and tried to think nothing of it until it became apparent that it wasn't normal and it wasn't going away... it was getting worse. I took her to her pediatrician on the 2nd and she told us she was most likely having absence seizures and ordered an EEG for Rachel. It's no surprise to anyone who knows this family that we would kind of freak out at the word seizure since it's complications from seizures that my nephew and a cousin died. I also have a niece who has amazingly survived two critical seizures. So on July 7th we went to the hospital at 6:40 a.m. to have the EEG done. She could only sleep from midnight to 4:00 a.m.. Nate took the midnight shift and I took the 4:00 a.m. one in hopes that each of us could get at least 5 to 6 hours of sleep, although I didn't sleep well at all.... too nervous. Rachel did so well sitting still and doing everything she was asked to do. She did get a little upset when the technician said she was about to start the test. I guess we didn't explain well enough that all the electrodes on her head wouldn't hurt or electrocute her, but she calmed down quickly and before she knew it the test was over. We were then going to wait for the doctors to read the test and then figure out when we could get in to see a neurologist up at Primary Children's, but my dear sister, Laura, contacted the neurologist that has worked closely with all the family cases of seizures and he was nice enough to make time for us the next day, July 8th. The news he gave us was a relief. He did confirm that she is having absence seizures and he believes that they are completely unrelated to the type of seizures the others have had. Children usually outgrow them and they don't cause any neurological or brain damage. He put her on a medication to stop them, mostly to protect her from having an accident. If she were to have one of these seizures while swimming or riding a bike, etc. she could get hurt. We are just so happy to know what is going on in her little head and to be able to get her the help she needs. It's so heart wrenching to know there is something wrong with your child. My heart goes out to all you parents who deal with everyday struggles that aren't going to just go away next week.

So to top it all off..... there has to be icing on the cake, right? All the kids ended up with fevers, and coughs. And of course, they all can't get it the same day. They have to spread it out nicely so someone is sick at all times!! Haley ended up with double ear infections and then got the fever and cough. I have a little cold, but am fine. So it's been a stressful, emotional week, but we still managed to have a little fun amongst it all.

Nate has been dying to have a firepit. So next thing I know he built one where we planned on having one, we just don't have the rest of the patio done... or even figured out completely. The kids didn't mind, though. It was windy that night so it wasn't as enjoyable as it could have been. Note to Nate: No fires when it's windy! I think Rachel's and Kaden's favorite part was pouring water on the fire to put it out. My favorite part-- being with my family and the full moon that I attempted to snap a shot of on my way inside.

After Rachel had a nice long nap the day of her EEG, I let the kids get out the slip-n-slide. It was a bit overcast, but once again they didn't mind! I was too lazy to find Haley's swimming suit, but at least she has on a swimming diaper! Kaden was a party pooper and didn't want to get wet. I love watching kids laugh and play. Entertainment at its best! Fever? What fever?

Thirsty?

Rachel, Kaden and Tye also finished up swimming lessons. They all did great! Tye wouldn't go down the slide even with all his teacher's coaxing and HATED the deep water.... I guess I better take him swimming more often... like at least once this summer. (I have never liked swimming that much so my kids are deprived!)

Nate and I did go on a motorcycle ride through the canyon Friday night. It was nice to have a moment to get away and enjoy the beauty that surrounds us. Now he's off to San Jose and I'm holding down the fort hoping for a brighter, healthier week!