Let's talk about outdoor ed

Earlier in the month the twins went on a school overnight trip. First time ever to sleep away from home. With loads of excitement, the kids prepared for this trip several weeks beforehand. There were awesome activities in store for them, zip line, canoeing, archery, fossil dig, trust course: both low and high (yikes) They stay overnight in cabins with friends, eat meals together and spend time bonding as 5th graders! At first, I have to admit I was nervous to have Zachary in the care of someone else all night long. Mainly, because his seizures typically occur in the evening while he is asleep. I was worried he would be scared without us to tend to him. I was worried about the proper care and complications. I guess I wasn't the only one... as it turns out the Fire Ridge staff was nervous too. So, they came up with a plan that would suit us just fine. They invited Jeff to come along and supervise the boys cabin. Yes! What a plan. Now, I was really excited to have them go to camp.

As you well know, they couldn't of picked a better "camper" to lead the troops. Jeff loves to be with children (especially his own). Games, funny stories, and a bunch of boys laughing at his jokes... is right up his alley. He prepared a funny story to tell by the campfire. He prepared a rockin' song to sing as a group. He prepared a bag of treats to distribute to the lucky boys who had him as a leader. He wasn't prepared to be swept off his feet by the kindness of the boys as they interacted with Zach. He mentioned what genuine and sweet gestures he witnessed as the boys were grouped together. Same with the girls. Although, he didn't spend much time with them he couldn't help but peak on Elle various times through the night. She was always with a group of giggling girls. Wild, loud, and happy...just as girls do. I was pleased to hear from her cabin leader what a "delightful and polite" young lady she is. Thank you, Mrs Campell.

a "pink" group picture. Looks like someone didn't like wearing his hat....

the girls gathered in the morning bursting with jitters and excitement before they boarded the bus.

Ellie and Mckenna in the lodge before the campfire.Zach and some buddies from his group

I am thankful

My prayers are heard and answered. And, in some cases immediately. This morning at 4:30 Zachary suffered a seizure. It woke him up, he calmly called to me. I know the "seizure" voice. I quickly ran to his side, administered the needed dose of medicine and waited. Typically, the seizure will stop within minutes. However, recently the seizures are taking on a new role. They are frequent and longer. Fearful that it may not stop with one syringe of medicine, I said a prayer. I prayed that he would fall asleep and his stiff arm would loosen to the point that is obvious to me the seizure is over. I prayed for a sign. Note, that a few times we have thought seizure ended only to find another begin moments later. The only sure way to know the seizure is gone is if Zach immediately falls asleep (the medicine is powerful and fast-acting.)

Only a few minutes into the prayer, a snuggly Zach fell asleep soundly. And snored loudly. Music to my ears. When my prayer was over, I checked his arm. A once tightened and twisted arm was as flimsy as a wet noodle. No confusion there. The seizure had stopped. And, I was thankful. Thankful for the quick answer and for the tender mercies we are afforded each time.

One tender mercy that i can't neglect to realize is the fact that either Jeff or myself have been with Zach during the seizures. Either by phone or in person. Last month when Jeff and I were in NYC, he had a seizure. Scary for grandma and grandpa, however we happened to be on the phone at the onset of the seizure. Jeff could walk his mom through the procedure without a minute to waste. Heavenly Father has blessed us with tender mercies along the way. Zach has always been awake and coherent for several minutes at the start of each and every seizure. He speaks clearly and appropriately. It allows me the strengthen to carry on, give the needed aid, watch the clock and comfort my baby. I talk to him, express my admiration for his courage and hold him.

Because he is awake I can tell him, you are my hero.

How can we deny that Zachary is being watched over and protected. We are blessed and thankful for answered prayers.

NYC

Jeff and I went to New York this week. We left the children behind. We left them in good hands and knew that they would have fun with grandpa and grandma. We knew that we would have fun in the city alone. We called it an "extended" date...luckily, this date would last for several days and nights. A dream, really. We planned our days to include plenty of free time. To wander the city, stop and see with no time constraints or schedules. Infact, each day we knew only to come home for our dinner reservations with Robby and Kat. Fabulous New York dining!

With that being said...NYC is busy, bustling, and fast paced so, we kept up with the pace and endured the blisters.

The first few days were rainy but warm. At first I thought it added to the thrill and adventure of being in NYC. But, a couple of hours later I wanted to grab a cab any chance we could. Wow, this city can be expensive. A few of my favorite sites included the 9/11 museum (heart wrenching), Broadway musical...shrek(sooo cute), the mets game (an experience), and most definitely shopping. Oh, the shopping. And, eating at such fantastic restaurants. We most enjoyed being with Robby and Kat and are very thankful for their hospitality during our stay. Thank you, guys!
I wanted to share with the kids our trip in pictures. This picture stands above the rest in their eyes. Nothing is more impressive to school kids than spying Taylor Swift on the streets on NYC... only hours before the famous Kayne diss.