Overdue Update...

Okay, I am overdue on an update! But I suppose we just have not had much going on! Our big news lately...James lost his first tooth a few weeks ago and will lose his second any day. Losing teeth brings back unpleasant memories for me! (My Dad, some dental floss and a door - you get the picture...). James also has been out of school for the Summer for a week now and I am wondering how to survive! He is such a busy body that I am trying to find things to keep him moving so he won't get too bored! We did get a great new toy this past week on Craigslist - a bike trailer so James and I can go for bike rides during the day and Kelsey can trailer along! It has been a bunch of fun so far. Here are a few pictures of James and his missing tooth and some other random pictures from the past few weeks! Things are going well!

Kelsey is 3!!

Today is Kelsey's 3rd Birthday! What a special day it was! After dropping James off at school this morning, we spent an hour or so at Target looking at toys. Then this evening, we had cake and gifts with Grandma and Grandpa Bjorvik. Simple plans, but sooooo enjoyable!
In her three years of life, Kelsey has brought so much joy to my life! I remember when I found out we were having a girl, I was not sure I could be a good Mom to a girl - I was such a tomboy as a child. But now that she is part of our lives, I just love having a little live doll to dress up and play with! She has been blessed with such an amazing sense of humor and such a tender heart. Here are some pictures of our day...

Grandma and Grandpa Bjorvik got Kelsey a "Plasmacar" and kudos to whoever came up with this amazing toy! How fun!! (Sorry Grandma, but I had to add this picture!!)

Cousin Weekend...

James and Kelsey got to have their first sleep over with their cousins Ryan and Meredith this weekend! It brought back great memories for me of the many nights that my cousins and I stayed at eachother's houses as kids. The kids had a great time - and slept pretty good considering the oldest 3 slept is James's room.

Grandpa & James

I have to share these pictures of James and Grandpa Roger shooting the BB gun! I love to see what a little "man" James is becoming - he loves all things boy! These moments in life so warm my heart!

Adventures With Animals!

Thanks to our beloved pets, we've had some excitement around here! On one of the warmer days last week, James and his next door pal Ally were upstairs and spotted a little mouse outside. They raced down stairs and outside to get a better look. I really did not believe that there was a mouse just playing in the yard - until the kids came back into the house. I could see in James's face that yes indeed, we had a little friend. Kelsey and I ventured out to take a peek and found Maggie (our youngest cat) sitting proudly in the bark with a little gray mouse in front of her - ALIVE! We all wanted the poor little mouse to have a chance at freedom, so we put Leo in the house (he really wanted to eat the little mouse), and we re-located Maggie so we could scoop up the mouse and drop it over the fence into the front yard. Little did we know, that while we were rescuing this little creature - Leo was frantically trying to get back outside. When we went to open the sliding glass door, we discovered that Leo has locked it! Thankfully, our neighbor Corene was home and had a key!
Then - more animal adventure! This weekend Leo was out in the backyard running around and tossing something up in the air. Mike went to investigate, and found that our sweet Leo had gotten a bird! He was so proud of himself and James thought that was the greatest thing ever!

Grandma Linda's Birthday

Last night (March 9th) we celebrated Grandma Linda's birthday! Here are a few pictures...

Kelsey's update: Kelsey had her IFSP evaluation a week ago, and it went well - as expected. Thankfully, she will continue with an IEP (individualized education programs). Depending on how she is doing, she may start pre-school at Alyce Hatch in the Fall.
We are looking forward to a nice quiet week this week! We had so many appointments last week, it will be nice to take a little break!!

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!

Kelsey has made the move! She is now in a big girl (toddler) bed! The crib has a new home thanks to Craigslist!

Peaches...

Each Tuesday, Kelsey gets to go out to Healing Reins and ride her designated horse, Peaches. She is such an amazing animal and you can see in her eyes how much she loves these kids! Well today, James came up with the idea to take a "gift" out to the ranch for Peaches - a small baggy of baby carrots. When we arrived at the ranch, Kelsey was so excited to take her gift to her horse. Turns out that Kelsey had to exercise some patience, because Peaches trainer said she cannot get a treat until she has worked. So off Kelsey and Peaches went for their 45 minute ride. When they were back to the stall, out came the carrots again. We went and got a bowl to dump the carrots into and Kelsey proudly walked with this big bowl in her little hands over to this massive animal and held the bowl up so Peaches could consume her snack. As Kelsey was walking over to her, Peaches lips were quivering and she was literally "licking her chops" with the anticipation of the snack that she knew was coming. I have never seen anything so sweet! Those horses at Healing Reins are a gift from above. They are the most wonderful, gentle animals!

(Speaking of wonderful animals...I had to add this picture that I took this evening of Mike and Leo - we are all so in love with him! Leo loves furniture - especially the living room couch - but that's okay with us!)

The woman at the grocery store...

Yesterday, I had the luxury of going grocery shopping alone and did not have the feeling of being rushed like I normally do - like the second I pull away, the stop watch starts. As I walked though the parking lot of Safeway, there was an elderly woman with an empty cart that had just finished loading a few small bags of groceries into her trunk. I asked her if I could take her cart for her and she said, "Oh that would be great!" When I looked at her face, I had this overwhelming feeling of recognition of her. I said to her as I looked into her wise eyes, "Do I know you from somewhere?" She took my hand I said, "You look familiar too - what is your name?" I told her and it did not ring a bell for her. Continuing to hold my hand, she told me such a sweet thought... "How wonderful it is when you recognize someone and speak up to tell them - even when you cannot place the person. I may just have a familiar face...either way, eventually, everything makes sense and we do remember." With that, she let go of my hand and wished me a pleasant day.
Who was this woman? I still cannot place her, but I am so glad I had a moment with her - whoever she is.

Update on Kelsey and the insurance mess...Though we have not yet come to a firm resolution on this, I have peace about it. I know it will work out the way it is suppose to. We will be filing for an extension of therapy visits which we are confident will be approved. I know we are not the only people having to battle with insurance to get things covered - and with the way the economy is, I am just thankful that we have insurance!

My Birthday...

I had a fantastic 35th birthday on Thursday. Colette flew in from Seattle and was able to stay til Saturday morning! I so enjoyed having time with her! She was able to be here for a birthday dinner of Chinese food, we were able to go snowmobiling on Friday (which she has never done, but did fantastic - got her sled up to 50 mph!), we did a tiny little bit of shopping, and just had fun talking. Since I know you will read this Colette, thanks again for coming and thanks for being you! I love you!

A road block for Kelsey...

I normally never lose any sleep over worry. But, early this morning I was awakened by a whining Leo who had to go potty at 3am. When I returned to bed, I laid there unable to return to sleep, with the feeling of a 100 pound stone on my heart. Yesterday, we were dealt a huge blow in Kelsey's therapy. It turns out that our new heath insurance has some hang-ups with her coverage. First of all, it has a 20 visit cap on physical therapy, which we will do in about 2 months. You can file for an extension of visits, which we fully intend to do. But, it also turns out that Kelsey's medical issues are written into the contract as "non-covered" items. So even with an extension, she still may not be covered at all. I am feeling heartbroken today. I do not like to use my blog as a complaint venue - but this hits us where it really hurts and I just have to write about it. If we don't get this resolved, Kelsey will pay the price. We hope to come to a resolution with the insurance because if we don't, we will not be able to keep Kelsey in therapy. Even with the Sparrow Club's help (Which is wonderful, but to be quite frank, not even enough money to even cover 2 months of therapy should we have to pay for it out of pocket).
The outcome of her visit with the vestibular specialist last week was great. She ruled out BPPV (a kind of vestibular issue that runs in my family). She does however believe that Kelsey does have a vestibular issue and would benefit from seeing the therapist at St. Charles. Which brings us back to the insurance problem once again. She will not be able to see an occupational therapist unless we get this extension and they agree to cover her.
I will end my "soap box" here, but I ask for my friends and family to please keep this issue in your prayers. And most of all, please pray for me as Kelsey's Mom. That I will be able to let go of the INCREDIBLE anger and disappointment that I feel today. As Mike and I have said so many times before...We were given Kelsey for a reason. I believe because God knew we would be 150% dedicated to her care. I also hope this road block will be crumbled so we can continue our journey of progress for Kelsey. I also pray that if the insurance issue cannot be resolved, that a local business will step up to sponsor her with a significant enough sponsorship to actually make a long term difference.

The Week...

BUSY, BUSY, BUSY...We had a busy week and look forward to the same this next week. Here are a few highlights...
Kelsey had a great therapy week with Christen in the pool on Monday and riding Peaches on Tuesday. I am singing Christen's praises! All along, Mike and I have questioned whether Kelsey's balance issues could be because of a vestibular problem, but we have been told by a number of Doctors that Kelsey is too young to have a vestibular disorder. Since Christen has been working with Kelsey - she has been able to see what we see in this regard - and agrees with us. So as a medical advocate for Kelsey, Christen was able to set up an evaluation for Kelsey this week by a woman at St. Charles that is a vestibular specialist. YES! We might be finally getting somewhere! Kelsey is doing fantastic overall, and absolutely loves her big brother! Mike and I continue to be amazed at James's creativity! He has a special stuffed bunny that belonged to Grandma McCall. This weekend, he came up the the idea to build "Dee Dee" the bunny a crate. It's pretty amazing! He also made Dee Dee a collar with tags that he wrote her name and our phone number on - in case she escapes! We are so happy that James has the gift of creativity! He can always think up something to do. Mike and I re-financed the house this week and were very happy to get a 4.5% rate! This is the only good thing about the economic woes!
Mike's Grandpa Gunnar was hospitalized yesterday after a "spell". We don't fully know what is going on with him yet as of this morning, so we are keeping him in our prayers.
Leo the dog continues to bring our family so much joy! He has decided that he too is a human. He is learning many new commands and is eager to please. We just love him! Finally, I am SOOOO excited that my oldest and dearest friend Colette is flying here for my birthday! If the weather holds for us, we plan to go snowmobiling while she is here. She has never been and that is a true love of mine! I cannot wait to see her!
Have a wonderful week...

It's the little things...

Each night as Mike and I get ready for bed, we spend a few minutes chatting as we brush our teeth. It is just one of those times each day that is part of the routine of life. Small as it may be, it's special quality time. Not only do we have the chance to talk without kids interrupting, but there is a small thing that Mike silently does for me each and every night. He places a clean and neatly folded hand towel by my sink. I glance down at that loyal towel that appears like magic each night, and think of how lucky I am to have a husband who is so thoughtful. Yes, a clean towel is small, but it speaks volumes on Mike's love for me - along with the many other things he does. I could not have asked for a better husband and father for our kids. I am also grateful that he makes time each and every day to do something - small or large - but something that says I love you! It is truly the non-material, giving of yourself gifts that mean the very most.

Of all the gifts in this world that I have been given, I have to say that my husband Mike is one of the best!

Back to work!

With the first official work week of 2009, we are back to our old schedule. Kelsey is back to riding Peaches this week at Healing Reins and she also had water therapy on Monday. Both went great - especially her riding therapy! We have not been out to the ranch in about 3 weeks, so Kelsey was very happy to see Peaches again! James is happy to be back to school. We continue to be amazed at how much he is learning and absorbing! He continues to be very intrigued with the garage and "projects". He is actually very careful - even using the saw! Today, he made of flag pole and drew an American flag to hang on the pole (it even had 50 stars!). Very creative! Leo has given himself a new nickname..."Houdini". We continue to love him dearly and enjoy him, but one small challenge he is presenting us with: He is an escape artist! We purchased a 8'x8' chain link kennel for him when we are not home (which is not too often!). Leo has managed to bend and contort the fence 3 times and escape. Luckily, only into the main garage. Mike and James spent 4 hours this weekend shoring it up, and so far it has held. We are chalking his escapes up to the fact that he truly loves being with us and the kids at all times!

HAPPY NEW YEARS!

Happy New Year 2009 Friends and Family! I hope and pray for a wonderful 2009 for all! 2008 proved to be a rough year for many friends and family - but life seems to keep marching on!
Mike and I spent New Years asleep - happily! We could say that we don't go out because we have small children, but that would not be true! Even when we did not have kids, we still always spent New Years home by choice. I guess we are just home bodies!
Have a Wonderful 2009!

Christmas

Christmas this year was very nice - and quiet! Mike and I so enjoyed the kids on Christmas morning. James came into our room about 3am and whispered, "Mommy...Santa came! He left my stocking at the end of my bed!" Thankfully he did go back to sleep until about 7am. I remember that "Christmas Morning" feeling like it was yesterday - waking up so excited Christmas morning and looking for the faithful stocking that was always left at my bedroom door or at the foot of my bed. (Thank you Mom for making such a special memory for me and a tradition that I can pass on to our kids!) Kelsey was not very interested in unwrapping anything - she was more interested in the toys that had already been unwrapped by her big brother.

The obvious "best gift" for the family was Leo, our new little friend. He continues to bring us such joy and James especially just loves him. Leo has managed to worm his adorable little way into snuggling in bed with James as he falls asleep at night. It so warms our hearts to see James so happy with his new best buddy! Kelsey also loves to lay on Leo's new cedar dog bed and cuddle with him.

Christmas evening was spent at our home with Mike's parents, Brother Erik and his family. The kids had a wonderful time playing with their cousins Ryan and Meredith.

Mike also turned 35 Christmas day. We celebrated with cake and gifts for Mike after Christmas dinner.

My mom continues to heal from her surgery in the comfort of her own home. She says she is sore, but feeling better and better - depending on the day.

Here are some pictures of Christmas...

"Leo"

Santa came a week and a half early this year with a special gift for our family...Yes, another furry friend. "Leo" is a AKC purebred German Short Hair Pointer. He is such a sweet and kind animal! He is 6 months old, his previous owner has already trained him a bit, but most importantly they potty trained him. The kids (James especially) LOVE him! Unlike Ben, who is getting stiff and grumpy in his old age, they can hug and snuggle with Leo. Where do we stand now in the pet department? 2 Dogs and 2 Cats, ("Mo" the fish passed away a few months back). Mike and I both truly believe that having a pet is one of the great joys in life - especially for the kids. We both reminisce about the dogs we had as children and how fun it was to grow up with a dog. Here are some pictures of our new friend!

O' Happy Day...

Okay, I believe each day we have air in our lungs and ground to walk on is a gift - but some days are just greater than others. Today was one of those days for me and our family! I spent a WONDERFUL morning in Sisters with a friend that I have not seen in a long time. No kids, no crowds, just 2 friends enjoying hot chocolate, endless chatting, and shopping! It was a wonderful and much needed break for me!!
I have had lots of updates on my Mom's surgery and all is good! Her surgery was about 5 1/2 hours long - as expected. It went well and her spirits are good. She and my Dad have also made the decision that she will go to a rehabilitation facility before going home. I believe this will be such a good stepping stone in her recovery!
As some of you may know, we applied to the Sparrow Club in Bend in hopes of getting some financial assistance with Kelsey's Hippo and Water therapy bills. I had called many time in the last 6 weeks and never heard back, so at the beginning of this week, I truly had given up on the idea and just figured that God had another plan in mind. Not so fast...This afternoon the phone rang, and it was the new applicant coordinator for the Sparrow Club. YES! We have a meeting at our home tomorrow morning, and it sounds like Kelsey will most likely be "adopted" by the club as a project. We are so thankful for this early Christmas Gift!
Thanks for your continued thought and prayers for my Mom. She has a long road ahead!