What's happening...

As I say so often, it has been a busy week!! This week and upcoming next week especially though. This week, Grandma Linda and I took Kelsey in to be evaluated for orthotics for her feet. Kelsey has tried on another child's orthotics at physical therapy and did great in them. So Christen (Kelsey's heaven sent therapist) thought it would benefit us to at least have an evaluation from the clinic where they are custom made. Turns out, the man who evaluated her thought she was doing very well and having them made would not benefit her enough to justify the HUGE cost of them ($1000-$1600!!). He did however suggest that we get some "off the shelf" ones that are just a few hundred dollars. He hopes that we will get the same result, without the cost. We'll see - they should be in soon for us to try.
Next, in the world of Kelsey - we have a BIG DAY coming up this Monday. Kelsey goes in for her 3 year IFSP (Individualized Family Service Plan) evaluation to determine whether she is still eligible for services (school, therapy, etc.) Kelsey is doing fantastic, but we are very much hoping that she will remain in the program. We really want her to have the opportunity to go to pre-school at the Alyce Hatch Center where we know she will be safe. Because of her continuing balance issues and Nystagmus, we believe she needs an environment that has an excellent teacher-student ratio to ensure her safety and will provide her with the extra attention that she requires at this point. We are 99.9% sure that she will remain in the program because of a request letter from her Doctor. I will update Monday evening when we know for sure!
James is doing great! He has had a few fun days over at his buddy Colby's house this week! I am truly grateful to Cathy (my friend - and Colby's Mom). We have really relied on each other for childcare when either of us have appointments and carpooling this school year - although I feel a bit guilty! I have the pick-up shift (the easy part! I don't even have to get out of the car!). James loves his friend Colby and feels happy playing at the Shield's house! James also continues to amaze us with what her is absorbing at school. He loves to recite Matthew 7:12! How great is that??
(Matthew 7:12 “In everything do to others as you would have them do to you")
Lastly, Mike and Leo! What can I say - it's true love! Mike went hunting last week with a co-worker and brought home some bird wings (from the poor little birds that he shot) for training his Leo. Mike has been working with Leo and the wings as often as he can after work. They go in the back yard and Mike and James hide the wings. Then, they let Leo out to "Hunt the up!!!". I am THRILLED beyond words that Mike is enjoying his future hunting dog. And by the way, Leo is a very smart dog! He is so fun to watch searching for the almighty hidden wings! And when he finds them - oh the pride of a successful hunt!