The Pages

2011-05-23T22:17:00.000-07:00

after surgery...

Before...(above and 2 pics below)

and after surgery...with a sweet smile.

What a beautiful miracle. Ryder's surgery went so well. The surgeon came in our pre-op room and said, "you know, I was thinking about Ryder last night...and this surgery, I just don't feel right doing the whole surgery." He went on about how he feels that Ryder is to young for the major surgery (screws and metal plates in hips to redirect the growth direction of hip) He said again I just kept thinking about it last night, and I feel we should just do the adductors (cut part of his tendons in hip area).
He decided that they would put Ryder under, do some x-rays, and make the final decision of what surgery to do. Dr Segal decided after the X-ray that he would try the simple cutting of the adductors. He made a small incision on inner leg, and cut a pretty good amount of the adductors. Immediately Ryder's hips went right into place....meaning they could avoid the big nasty painful surgery for now! woo-hoo!!!
We have to do special stretches in order to keep his hips this way...but throughout the next few years they will grow out of place again because of his stiffness from cerebral palsy....but at that time his body will be stronger and able to handle such a HUGE surgery.
What a beautiful blessing that the Dr went with those feelings he had and switched up the surgery plan....We know this all happened because of all the fasting, prayers and much faith.
So instead of a 4 hour surgery, it was a 30 minute surgery...and instead of staying in the hospital a week....Ryder is home and healing!!! He will be in a ton pain for a few days. He has to wear a huge triangular brace on his bottom half of body for 2 weeks (he cant move).....but much better then all summer long wearing that thing!!!!!!
About 7:30 tonight he was fussy with pain so we had to drug him up. We will be giving him heavy pain meds for at least a few days....because as you can imagine getting your tendons cut in the hip area is VERY painful. Greg and I quickly learned tonight that it take 2 just to change his diaper and try to keep minimal pain from moving his legs....so sad : (
Ryder goes into the Dr for post-op appt in a few weeks to get the stitches cut out, and to make sure he is healing right.
We are just so grateful for Heavenly Father blessing us with such a beautiful miracle. The power of prayer definitely works : ) Truly a miracle.

Thank you for all your prayers!!!

2011-05-20T12:55:00.000-07:00

Ryder's little buddy, Dallin, got a special service award with Mesa Public School District. (you can see Dallin get this award, with Ryder by his side starting at the 17:54 on the link below) Dallin is Ryder's favorite friend. Dallin is such a sweet little boy. We are so grateful the Hansen's have raised such a wonderful child. This is a clip that shows a little bit of the bond these two little guys have...so sweet.

Watch how Ryder watches the lady doing sign language and he copies her! haha...then he spots mom and dad and points at us...hilarious.

http://www.edtv99.org/video/8548
or....www.edtv99.org (look at on demand, live events, exceptional student service awards 2011)

2011-05-05T15:29:00.000-07:00

2011-05-01T15:19:00.000-07:00

Ryder got bumped up on the surgery. May 23 he is having double hip surgery. He is excited that Dr Segal is fixing the pain in his legs. We are happy that he is getting the surgery to fix some issues...but also so nervous!!! This is the first real big surgery for him...and we always hate when he has to be put under. We're trying to focus on the positive though! :) we will try to keep the blog updated as much as possible!
Also no visitors for Ryder while in the hospital. In order for him to get out quicker and heal quicker it is best for no visitors. Ryder does love surprises, balloons, cards, pictures...etc. So if you feel the need, send them our way and he'll get them! He'd love them!!! You should see his face when he gets mail with his name on it!!!
Thanks for everything! Please continue to keep our sweet little guy in your prayers : )

2011-04-25T21:18:00.000-07:00

So got word today that Ryder's surgery is all the way in August!!! (Ruby's first birthday, 8/8/11) Why so far away you are probably thinking??? Because the DR's summer is BOOKED! He only does surgery once a week. Ryder's surgery takes approx 4 hours, so it is difficult to squeeze him into that already booked schedule. I am in the process of contacting DR to let him know that Ryder is in so much pain from his hips. Ryder daily will cry or complain that his "legs" hurt....his legs "scissor" or cross over almost constantly now..he hates standing...the weight on hips hurt him. It's getting worse daily, so I HATE to see him wait all the way until August for the surgery. We will see what happens! I am bugging them though : )
We will keep you all posted..if the date changes (HOPEFULLY!) I will post!

2011-04-09T21:10:00.000-07:00

First...I guess Ryder's surgery can happen anytime with about only a weeks notice...so we'll see when that is! I'm so nervous waiting for the letter w surgery date.
Next, I was so blessed to meet this wonderful family in the waiting room before Ryder's appointment with his Ortho surgeon. The kid was about 7 he also had a sister about 3 years younger (like Ruby and Ryder). This boy was SO much like Ryder...smart as can be! he was so sweet! He looked at my mom and then Ryder and said, "does he talk?" my mom said "Yes he does." then told Ryder to say hi...it took a lot to get ryder to say hi to this kid (ryder is so shy!) finally he said hi....
anyways it was so cute...but the best was the mom and I exchanged info...and it ends up her son just had this surgery this winter that Ryder is having. She sent me a message and I'm going to share it...
I am so grateful God blesses me with such great people at perfect times. When we found out Ryder had CP, a woman I talked to that was a parent of special needs kids told me this...and I will ALWAYS remember. "Heavenly Father will always provide a way to get through our trials in life. Heavenly Father will always provide a way to get through what we face with raising these special Spirit children." Can I just say she wasn't kidding. We always are blessed with such wonderful people in our life, and the blessings we see are beautiful. Anyways here is some of her email....(oh and she talks about HAB, thats the service through the state that someone comes in and helps the child meet goals, and helps teach self help skills..its for kids that are severe....but sadly Ryder was DENIED completely because of s state workers stupid mistakes..and now we are fighting to get it for Ryder....esp after this email I got from this great new friend.)

"I am pretty sure Ryder is having the same procedure that our son had, our son also had his adductor tendon's released, because they were so tight and the botox wasn't helping as much, so Dr. Segal decided to cut the adductors. It is a very intense surgery and recovery, but it was well worth it for our son. I would also talk to your DDD caseworker to asked to have more hours put in for HAB and possible attendant care because after the surgery most of what I had to do with our son took two people. The recovery was much more extensive that I expected and I was so thankful to have a provider there to help me during the day!! Especially having to care for my daughter as well...

I was also very nervous about the procedure, but it really helped our son and all of what he had to endure was very tough for him and for the family, but I do think it was worth it!

Please feel free to ask me any questions.

The Procedure is intense and it will be alot on you as a parent, but you were given Ryder because you are an incredible mother! Always remember not eveyone has the ability to do what you do everyday!! You are a very special MOM and you need to remember that!!"

2011-04-05T18:09:00.000-07:00

Today was a rough day. Ryder saw his wonderful Orthopedic Surgeon today, Dr Segal. I thought the appointment would go the same as usual....we go in get x-rays and get told all looks ok...and then we go on our way....but that is not what happened.
Ryder had X rays done (as usual every 6 months) the DR came into the room and asked me to step out with him so I could see the Xrays....I could tell he was bummed out. We got to his computer screen and I could clearly see something was wrong with Ryders hips....It was kinda confusing in words but basically due to Ryders high tone in his lower part of body his hip sockets are trying pop out the back of socket.
Lately Ryder has complained that his hips hurt, and his legs "scissor" (cross over each other)...and also his left leg only opens at 20%. (very bad)
Ryder has to have double hip surgery...and soon! Dr Segal said he doesn't like having to do this surgery on kids Ryders age...but sadly it has to happen this way. The surgery is going to be intense...(he said kids with spinal surgeries recover quicker then with this surgery). Ryder will regress with anything physically he does now...this surgery once again is very hard on the patient/child.
From what I understand is they go into the hip....cut into the bone....put in a metal plate...and also cut some tendons in the hip area. After I find out the exact name of surgery and more info I'll post a link with info.
Recovery in hospital is about a week...and 6 weeks at home... 6 months later they go back into the hips and take out the plates.

We are very sad about this...it is something we knew would eventually happen...but not so soon
: (

We will keep you all posted on whats going on.

2011-03-20T17:29:00.000-07:00

Ruby pictures from yesterday : ) my oh my, shes growing fast!

2011-03-16T16:01:00.001-07:00

Phoenix Zoo...

Ruby in January.
Jared's wedding at Mesa Temple....Greg, Jared, Bryon....
Reception....

temple...Jared and Ryder....
and more reception...

It has been FOREVER. Sorry to all.

Here is a quick update....

Ruby is growing fast. She has been crawling for a week now....and into everything! esp anything that Ryder has. I constantly hear "mom take her away please."
We have to make barrier thru middle of room to keep her off of him. Even though she is bugging him all the time he is still so sweet to her. He really is the SWEETEST child I have ever seen. We are so blessed to have his special spirit in our family.
Ruby is also beginning to talk... these are her words... her first word was "hi!" then "pway" (play) she says that whenever she sees the guitars...haha.
The words that I hear most are "mama baba" aka mom, bottle!...and also dada...when she sees greg. She is learning pretty quickly. I always tell Ryder he is teaching her SO much! and he just smiles, all proud of himself.

Kira also was recently called to serve in Young Womens...and she LOVES it. It is her dream calling...and is everything she hoped it'd be!
Greg is still as busy as ever...school full time, work full time, doing dirtbike wheels on side, and playing in bands. The band part is a great vent for him with all he does!
That is us since November : )

2010-11-13T17:57:00.000-08:00

Today was Ryder's NyICU reunion for ST Joe's. It was so cool to see some of Ryders medical staff...Esp Claire! She was his nurse pretty much from the beginning to end. The CUTEST moment was seeing Jesus and Ryder hugging. Jesus is the lil guy photo'd with Ryder below. They were lil 2 lbs buddies in the NyICU. I guess there was another little baby in there that was just 13 ounces!!! yes JUST 13 ounces! her nick name was polly pocket, and was the length of a dollar bill!!! she lived and is totally fine, running around! Im bummed I didnt get a picture of her. SO COOL! Yeah thats why I love St Joes they kick major butt.

2010-10-28T15:02:00.000-07:00

Ryder had a Halloween Party at school today....here are his pictures before he headed off. We have 2 costumes for him...At first he wanted to be a monkey...then last minute wanted to change into his cool dragon costume. He wanted to be Elmo....but the store was out of the cool Elmo costumes.

2010-10-28T14:27:00.000-07:00

dimples...the chubbier she gets...the smaller they get : (
she is so much fun....

talking to mommy....
Ruby in her almost finished Halloween Outfit...

Such a cool kid.

first day to ride the bus!

2010-10-28T14:10:00.001-07:00

Yes, it has been a while! goodness. Sorry! Life has been good here at the Page house. Busy, but good.

Ruby is about 13 lbs now, and a great baby! we are so blessed to have this little sweetie in our family. She is doing wonderful and developing fine. She loves kicking! And laying by Ryder and plays with him. She will smile at her big brother, at times even laugh.

Ryder is being Ryder.....AwEsOmE! He is such a wonderful kid. He is so loving, and sweet. Ryder started preschool last week. He rides the bus. He loves school. Today he got home and said, "mom! school was so fun!" He talks all of the time. He was evaluated by the school district...Bragging moment here for me...he scored 106% in cognitive, and the same in communication, 96% in speech (minor problems understanding things). In physical he scored 50%, that actually was surprising. Good job Ryder.

Everywhere we go this is Ryder.... "oooh look mom, that light is a rectangle!" Or "mom that table is kinda like a cylinder!" He's getting down octagon...he knows that the stop signs are octagons.
He knows his colors, shapes, and recognizes many letters. Almost 3 years ago, we were not sure he'd do anything like this! After his brain problems in the NICU, noone really knew what he would do. Well look at Ryder now! We are SSSSOOOOOOO proud of this kid!
Oh another story...the other day while playing a game with him....he smiled to big and said "mom! I have options!!" I laughed, and thought where did he learn that one?

Kiralee is well. I have had a crazy 3 months of ear infections....like 4! I hope to get tubes in my ears...yes like a kid! I am just so sick of getting high fevers and achy ears.

Greg is BUSY~ with work, school, and his band. He got called to be assistant scout leader to the 11 year olds. He is busy busy....he always makes time to hang out with Ryder though. Ryder sure loves his dad!

2010-09-15T17:11:00.000-07:00

Today is one of those days, I sit back and am so grateful to have a special son with cerebral palsy. Ryder is such a sweet loving kid. He teaches Greg and I so much.
I am filled with much emotion today because of his struggles. We get so caught up in our busy life with Ryder we tend to forget he's a "different" kid. Now that Ryder talks (alot!). He is now realizing his differences from his cousins or buddies.
He asks to run, walk...today he really wanted to sit by himself.
Ryder was playing basketball in his playroom, and really wanted to sit to shoot the ball into basket... I had to help Ruby at the same time. Ryder cried to sit, it wasn't an anger thing it was a sad thing....I could see in his eyes he knew... he wanted to sit like the other kids his age....we kind of just stared at each other and emotionally just felt each other.
At that point I knew I could explain his disability... I told him about when he was born really early and got hurt inside his brain....and it hurt his legs, and muscles... Ryder laid in my arms listening, and thinking deeply about it. He told me "Kiwa I want to sit." I knew it wasn't a "help me sit" it was a "I want to sit by myself sit". Yeah, that tore my heart up.
He sees kids playing sports and he wants to do it...he wants to be independent... Greg and I dreaded the day Ryder would notice his cerebral palsy....well today was that day... It breaks our hearts....
moments like today I just grab Ryder and hold him in my arms for a long time and tell him how much I love him, and what a cool kid he is...I could hug him all day.
I told Ryder today that he will sit all by himself someday, and walk by himself. His smile was priceless. I could see in his smile that he is determined, and he will do anything he puts his mind to... like walking : )
Ryder is my Hero. I love him.

2010-09-07T22:01:00.000-07:00

Labor Day weekend was an interesting one.... started off rocky ended great.
We had been planning to go up to grandpa Jones's cabin for Labor day for a while, but Friday morning Kira woke up with a fever. She was pretty mad because she hadn't had one since high school. She saw the Dr. it was another ear infection. Kira's fever got pretty high, but she was set on getting out of HOT Mesa.
So we were about to pack up the jeep (we got a new car Jeep Liberty) but something was going wrong with the clutch. Thank goodness we were able to catch rides up!
So we went to cabin...got there....found out we were going to be locked out of cabin for 4 hours while they "bug bombed" the place. The cabin gets nasty Spiders!!! eeeew.
In the meantime Kira's fever went up to 102.3...she was miserable....but happy to be in the beautiful mountains.
It was nice that we were trapped out of the cabin....it forced everyone to be outside in the pines. Then came a thunderstorm...that was a good thing....thunderstorms at the cabin are beautiful.
Also Ryder went fishing for the first time. He caught 3 fish. Kissed a fish. Yes, kissed a fish. haha. Ryder also got to play all weekend with kids! he loved that!!!
Greg got a nasty migraine, while Kira had her fever....we were so lucky to have people helping with the kiddos!!
I love the cabin...minus the spiders....it's one of my favorite places to be.
That was our crazy weekend.

2010-08-25T20:24:00.000-07:00

A few months ago while driving in the car, a 'Red Hot Chili Pepper" song came on the radio. The song was 'Snow" aka "hey o listen what I say yo...."etc....well Ryder instantly started singing it...and ALWAYS sings it. He watches many music videos on you tube...and he asks all the time to watch the 'Hey o song". So these are pics of that.

2010-08-24T13:25:00.000-07:00

.My phone is not working...Sorry to those...especially Ryder's therapists who may have tried calling!or texting Hopefully I will get to store today or tomorrow to fix it! If not you can reach me at home or on Greg's cell... email me at kiraboo_82@yahoo.com for the numbers.

Long story short... Through all this craziness the past 3 weeks my debit card info was stolen. Some moron tried to spend $300 at a Walmart in Illinois.... what a loser. Anyways, I forgot which bills were auto paid off that card... found out last night ooooops! my cell phone was one of those bills! DANG! So apparently I have to go in to fix it... so in the mean time... I guess its quieter for me with out my cell ringing all day! haha.

Sorry for the inconvenience to everyone!!

2010-08-22T20:19:00.000-07:00

Life as expected, has been very busy after a new little addition to the family. Kira now has to balance between 2 kids that need her constant attention. It gets a bit tricky with Ryder's disabilities. Since Ryder is unable to sit, walk, crawl....it is sometimes a crazy moment trying to take care of a newborn, and a 34 lb 2 1/2 year old, but we manage.

The craziest was Friday when I went out in what 108?? temps while pushing Ryder in his wheelchair and carrying Ruby in a carseat. People kept giving me crazy looks, and many offered help. I assured them I was ok and "got it down." I must say Greg and I are becoming pros at the wheelchair thing! Greg can grocery shop with a wheelchair and a cart! Crazy I know!

Anyways...Ryder enjoys being a big brother. It took him a bit to get over the trauma of mommy being at hospital when she had Ruby. Ryder does not do well with hospitals... poor kiddo.

About the kids:
Ruby is great....super easy baby. We are very grateful for that!

Ryder is alright. He is getting over Pneumonia. He aspirated while I was in hospital after having Ruby, and that caused the pneumonia. On top of that he got a horrible ear infection. We feel so bad for him when he gets so sick, and of course it is scary.

It was also in a weird way a blessing he got pneumonia. They had to x-ray his lungs to see what was going on with his lungs. In the x-ray they found a spot on his lungs. From this point out they have to watch it every few months to make sure it doesnt do anything...like grow. The specialist thinks it is possibly just scaring from past infections. He said in adults, its almost always cancer, but in a child, usually just scaring from infections, and we all know Ryder has had much of that!!! The DR. also said in 30 years of experience, he was only seen a hand full of kids that it was cancerous. That was a relief to hear! We of course still in the back of our minds worry...but in 2 months after a good x-ray we will be even more relieved.

That is how the Page family is doing!

Oh side note... We were planning on going to Idaho in September to bless Ruby, and visit family and friends....but with recent changes at Greg's work...that probably won't happen til later in the year.

2010-08-11T21:02:00.000-07:00

2010-08-09T21:57:00.000-07:00

Ryder is SOOOO happy that he is now a big brother....and a GrEaT one at that!! He always wants to hold her, and will even tell you to"be soft with baby Ruby!" He gets very upset when he has to leave Ruby. It's to cute.

Ruby Amanda Page was born Sunday August 8th, at 1:39 pm, weighing 6 lbs 9 oz, and 19 inches long. She is very healthy, and a great baby....very alert, and loves her daddy!

Where'd her name come from? Well we love the name Ruby, and when we found out it was a girl...it stuck. Amanda is after a good friend of Kira's that passed away in highschool. Amanda was an amazing person, and Greg and Kira loved the idea of having their baby girl have Amanda's name.

The Story: As we all know prediction from OB was Ruby would come the week of cerclage removal...and she was right!

Saturday I just felt funny, and debated if I should go into triage or not. Finally I went in. I was dilated to a 5. With my history, they knew anything could happen at this point, so they kept me in. Dr said if no progress by 6 AM Sunday ( it was 11 pm at this time on sat) they'd give me meds to get it all going. Well apparently my body once again wanted to give its issues....long story short they were giving me the meds at 6.
Before the meds even really had time to kick in, the Dr came in...and found that I was further dilated and such, then the nurses thought. (they were all confused, cuz indeed, I am a freak patient, haha). Next thing I knew Dr B broke my water to get this all done with...then came the amazing epideral (sp?) (it was freakin amazing.... felt hardly anything! )
Then it went fast from there.... and believe it or not....I have to say this delivery was quicker and easier then Ryder's! It was great.
Ruby is just as cute as her older brother! She has a bunch of dark hair... perfect shaped head, she even has dimples when she makes certain faces! She has chunky cheeks like Ryder did. We love it!
Ryder will be a great big brother. We are so excited to have this beautiful baby girl to add to our little family. She truly is a beautiful miracle. I can go on and on and on about how grateful we are to have met Dr Bullaro. It was a totally crazy way we met....but it was a meant to be thing. She and DR Blumrick and our wonderful Heavenly Father got us here today... a healthy baby, a healthy mom....Proud dad, and happy as ever Ryder.
Thank you for every prayer, meal, phone call, card....etc. through these past 9 months. We are forever grateful

2010-08-04T09:38:00.000-07:00

No Baby Yet! Had to wait til yesterday to have cerclage out. Let me tell ya it was not fun at all! haha. Greg was there and was like WHOA! The highrisk Ob said I was 80% efaced (sp?) and labor could happen today, tomorrow....even a week. It's all a surprise to us all!! So in the meantime, I am up and walking and doing stuff trying to get it going! haha.
It was so cool to see the smile on the DR's face...and he said "This is what makes my job worth it. All the long hours, no sleep...etc. To get someone like you to term in their pregnancy, this is what I love. This is why I went into this line of work."
Greg told him how grateful we are for him and his experience, and all he did for us. Wow what a blessing!
So we will keep you posted as stuff happens with labor and such!

Thanks for all the prayers and concern!

2010-07-27T19:31:00.000-07:00

So this morning I wasn't feeling "it"....I was doubting if I should cut the stitches this week. It's been weighing on my mind for a few days. So today when Greg and I went into my OB office, the atmosphere was different then usual. The girls all kinda seemed down. I heard them calling and rescheduling appointments for the rest of patients today. They were rescheduling into next week. So the thought hit me, maybe this is a good thing for me... almost like an answer to prayers?? I just didn't feel right about going through with stitches coming out.
So then when I get back into the room and doctor comes in. She shared with us some very sad personal stuff going on in her life, that requires her to take off the rest of week. She said I am willing to take out stitches, but one week is always better... if I can handle it. I just felt "right" about waiting a week. So we are waiting til next monday.
It was hilarious...she said baby Ruby is TOTALLY ready and wanting to come! She said "man, that daughter of yours really wants to come! She's there, ready to come out....but we are not are not letting her!
She then said "baby must be thinking 'dammit who dead bolted the damn door!' let me out already!"
Greg and I laughed, cuz so true! haha.
My doctor is truly an amazing lady. We are so blessed to have found her. Ruby will have a beautiful life because of this wonderful doctor.
We go in early monday morning and she said she really expects Ruby to come like that day....so we shall see!!!

2010-07-25T22:13:00.000-07:00

This Tuesday may be the day! We shall see! So far it's looking that way...at least for the stitches to come out. Ruby is expected to be born very soon after.

I had to put up the pink page to get ready for it....I gave in to pink-girly stuff. Could not help myself.

Anyways we will update this week and let ya know. We are all excited for a baby....Ryder is VERY excited for "baby Ruby". It's all to much fun.

Thanks for all the prayers, and concerns. We are grateful to have such great friends and family!

2010-07-14T19:22:00.000-07:00

We may have our little Ruby very soon. This past weekend my body has been trying it's best to get her out. Cervix is pretty much down to the stitches, and soft. Have had many labor signs the past 3 days. Dr feels Ruby will be safe being born now, but of course the longer the better! So our goal is 12 more days (35 weeks). She will then cut cerclage, and expect Ruby to come w/in 24 hours.

Thank goodness for a cerclage...it's been her lifesaver. I am now on 3 meds just for labor issues alone niphepine, and tribunaline (sp?) and my shot every week! to try and stop contractions, and cramping. It was working, but is wearing off quickly. All we are doing is trying to buy time.

People keep asking about a baby shower. I was not going to have one, but many have told me I need one. So since this all has been so unpredictable, we are waiting til after her birth. Another question is what do we need???? I registered at baby r us, and target. Right now the most we need, that I'm not allowed to go out and get (back on STRICT bedrest!) is diapers, and a baby bath, and bath stuff, which is listed on my registry. We kept much of Ryder's stuff, so we have some stuff : )

Ryder is doing great...totally into babies. He loves playing with the dolls at my moms and being the daddy to them. He is always talking about Ruby. He understands what is going on...that there is an actual baby in mommy's tummy...and soon she'll come out to play. Thanks to TLC baby story... he gets the idea.

well thats us right now, we will update soon.

2010-07-06T13:44:00.000-07:00

Random Blog entry...

Lately Ryder talks to us about Thomas. We do not know who this"Thomas" is. In fact, we don't know anyone that even goes by the name Thomas. He doesn't watch Thomas the train either.
This "Thomas" is not someone he plays with...like an imaginary friend. Usually it happens at night... he just points Thomas out to us.
A few weeks ago was the first time. We brought him into the computer room. He looks up at the ceiling and says... "hey there's Thomas." Then he went onto what he was doing.
Then a few times when we are putting him to bed... he says as he points to usually a corner of the room. "look, there's Thomas."
The craziest was the other night at my parents Rob, my brother was teasing Ryder. He told Ryder he was going to put Ryder to bed in my parent's bed. So Rob took Ryder into their bed, laid him down, then turned off light and walked out.
Ryder didn't care at all, he thought it was funny. Rob then opens the door and Ryder says "Rob! look there's Thomas..over there!" as he points over to my parents closet.
Rob walks out to me and says, "uh who is Thomas???"
I was like, "you're joking, right."
Rob had no clue about what Ryder had been telling us about this "Thomas".
Rob told me what had happened, I admit it was a bit creepy for me.
Then that night I heard Ryder say "Thomas" in his monitor.
Very odd, indeed. I'm not sure what to think about this.
If you ask Ryder about Thomas....he really doesn't care about what you are saying.
All I have to say is...interesting.

2010-07-04T12:27:00.000-07:00

Lately people have started asking about Ryder's Cerebral Palsy...they are also kind of scared to ask....so On Facebook I wrote this...and wanted to post it on here, So people will know that we are ok with you asking us. We are not ashamed or scared about talking about it. So here's the post from facebook....

People also are curious yet scared to ask if Ruby will have cerebral palsy. When they finally get out the question....They are relieved to hear the answer that likely she will not. It is ... not genetic at all....The only reason Ryder has Cerebral Palsy is because he was born 3 1/2 months early. At that point the tiny baby's brain is at high risk for basically a stroke. (the simple explanation).
From being SO premature, Ryder had very severe "brain bleeds" (stroke) on both right and left side of the brain.Permanently damaging major nerves, and connections to the spine, and such.
Due to to the damage on both sides of his brain. Ryder physically is considered Severe Cerebral Palsy.
People wonder what Ryder can do physically??
Ryder can roll side to side and play with toys. He figured out months ago how to scoot around on his back. He scoots everywhere that way! He is getting quick at it too!
Ryder at this time can not sit on his own. His upper trunk control is very weak, due to the brain damage. He is working on it though!
Ryder can walk if someone holds him up. It takes him a while for his brain to telll his little legs and feet to move....but it's a great start!!!
Ryder has special chairs and equipment to help him be more independent. He has wheelchairs, special feeding and activity chairs, bath chairs....etc. that support his head, and body.
Ryder can feed himself. Soon he will get potty trained : )
The big question many fear to ask is if he will walk on his own. We do not know. That is up to his brain and body. The neurologist said maybe in early adulthood.
The best part is that Ryder IS there mentally. Since his physical disability is so severe, the mental part over compensates. He is a brilliant child... Very intelligent.He is a normal 2 going on 3 kiddo...in some cases even smarter. He speaks in full sentences. He can tell you many things...he can tell us when he needs help with this handicaps...
Like "mom help, Im stuck. Help me please"
He has a hard time getting out of corners, or away from a wall...or thru narrow doorways.
He is seriously a SWEET lil' guy. Constantly telling people thank you for helping him out. He always says I love you. He loves to cuddle with anyone.
We are just so blessed to have this amazing kiddo as our child. We are proud of him, and his great example of overcoming so much.

2010-07-01T10:45:00.000-07:00

31 weeks...2 days along! woo-hoo!! What a miracle! We have been blessed! I LOVE my wonderful team of doctors.

Yesterday had another 4D ultrasound, and OB appointment. All looks great right now. In ultrasound Ruby measures just shy of 4 lbs... all organs are healthy. My health is great as well. Cervical length is still looking good. The Dr believes what will happen is in about 4 weeks when she cuts the stitches out, I most likely will go into labor with in a few days. If for some crazy reason that doesn't happen, she will induce (sp?) me the next week. I never even thought that phrase would come up in my pregnancy! geez.
The Dr also feels comfortable if she comes anytime after next week...since it's a girl (they do better) and her lungs are good from the steroid shots.
It's nice to have a good idea now when she'll be here. We are guessing beginning of August. Yay! We are excited.

Our Amazing Ryder is doing great. He is growing up into a "big boy" as he calls it. He wants to do so many things on his own now....it's bitter sweet, but gotta let him grow up sometime : )

Greg is doing great. Playing in a band again, I have not heard them yet....due to bedrest....but I hear they are pretty dang good. No surprise though...Greg is so talented musically.

Well thats us, will update soon.

2010-06-22T18:15:00.000-07:00

Yes I am still pregnant! (sorry Rachel!) I am 30 weeks today!!! WOOHOO!! 4 weeks past Ryder's birth gestation!

Everything still looks the same, just a little dialated...but no worries :-)

It is a total day to day thing here....we have NO clue when she'll arrive. We are just grateful she is still cookin! Once I hit 32 weeks I have no worries...so 2 more weeks!

Ryder is great he told my mother in law ...."mommy's making Ruby." Or the other night he took this random toy held it up to his belly and said..."I hear Ruby's heart!" yeah I got teary eyed. Ryder gets to hear her heart beat every saturday when my home nurse visits. He'll say I hear Ruby! when her heartbeat is checked. He has asked ruby to come and play, we so oh not yet bud!

He will love having a sister...we are excited.

Well that is us! will update soon : )

2010-06-10T21:24:00.000-07:00

Utah-Idaho trip.....

Greg and I have decided if all goes as planned and Ruby comes at least a little early....we are going to bless her in Utah the week of Labor Day. Greg's mom's side gets together then, and Greg's family will be there in Payson Utah for onion days.My sister lives nearby in Springville, and my parents will come up for the blessing too : ) We figured this would be great for Brett (greg's dad) cuz that is a BUSY time on the farm...so he will not have to travel far.
It will be cool to have Greg's family there for Ruby's blessing. Ryder was blessed here with my grandparents...and Ruby can be blessed there with Greg's grandparents : )

Thought the family should know, so they can plan on it : )

2010-06-10T20:24:00.000-07:00

So below are pics from this week...Ruby, Ryder, and me!

Things are going well here for us, or as expected :) I am no longer freaking out being worried. Ruby is 3 lbs... and still cookin'! I have got the steroid shots for her lungs... her organs, brain look great. Everything with me is hmmm... ok? Or "as expected" for someone like me... my sister's have said (who work labor and delivery) "Kira you are a medical nightmare." I agree, and except that haha.

So here's the scoop without to much info... My surgery I had to help miss Ruby stay in me, well it's not being good to me now :-( The Dr that did the surgery is known for his record of this "procedure" always staying til they remove stitches at 36 weeks. Well apparently I broke his great record... cuz mine is not cooperating.

When will Ruby come??? WHO KNOWS?? it's a day to day, week to week thing I guess. So we shall see: ) but good news she's getting closer to the safe zone... 32 weeks on.

Ryder is doing great. Funny as ever. I sing Ryder to sleep every night... I sing primary songs about Jesus...and such. Well last night that changed...here's the conversation..
Ryder: "mom sing a song about poopie garbage?"
Mom: "ryder, you want me to sing a song about poopie garbage????!!??"
Ryder: "YEAH!"
mom: "GREG! COME HERE PLEASE!" (trying not to laugh)
Greg: "Yes?"
Mom: "um, Ryder wants me to make a song about poopie garbage? can you help me please?"
Greg: "wheres Ryders guitar?"....then sang "there was a garbage truck full of poopie diapers..."
(I do not remember the rest, as I was laughing to hard.)

Ryder loved it... i mean LOVED it...huge grin and all. After that he realized mom and dad could sing about ANYTHING! so the requests started coming...
"mom sing about the vent (he is obsessed with the vents), sing about the speakers, the smoke alarm, the monitor, the light, the hook on wall....etc."
Oh and "song about elmo and Ryder, song about Patrick spongebob and a rocket."

And we made up a song for all of those things. He would've gone on forever about them...but I said he needed to say goodnight to all of those things. So we sang a song about goodnight vent, speaker, monitor, hook,...etc.

Seriously this kid is brilliant. And even though at times its annoying, I am grateful.

2010-06-10T20:00:00.000-07:00

2010-05-25T18:02:00.001-07:00

This is what I want to do to Ruby's room.... can't wait!
My prego belly...and growing : )

So YEP! I made it to 26 weeks! I had Ryder on this day (26 weeks). When I woke up this morning, I smiled : ) thought to myself... "yay! I made it....now to 30 weeks!"
Today and the past 2 weeks I have been doing great. I have had a few ups and downs, but expected for a high risk pregnancy.
Dr Blumrick said if it stays as it has the last 2 weeks, there is a chance to make it to 36 weeks. I was stoked! So I just take it easy...trying to make it to 30 weeks... then go from there!

I have had a fun time getting clothes for Ruby. Her closet is filling up! I love going into her room and looking at the tiny cute clothes! Ryder doesn't get left out though! If I get ruby something, I always get him something to.. a cool toy, fun craft, or another adorable little boy outfit. He is always SOO happy to get a surprise from mom. I love it!

2010-05-06T20:01:00.000-07:00

4d pictures are creepy... but shared anyways!

Kira had her weekly doctor appointment today. It went as expected... good and bad news.... good news my contractions he feels are still resulting from the surgery. My body is still getting used to stitches...at times it wigs out...but then calms down after a bit. No big deal as long as contractions stay small.
Bad news to avoid to much info... lets just say soon all that will hold in Ruby is the stitches. Dr Blumrick said it is such a good thing we did the surgery, and esp when we did!!! because without it... we be in LOTS of trouble!
Several Doctors that have seen me in the last few weeks agree Ruby will likely come around 28 weeks to 32 weeks.... I am 23 & 2 days today! So we are preparing for another preemie!
I am taking it very easy... caring for Ryder gets tricky, but we manage... that is thanks to my mother and family!
We are excited for Greg's sister and mom to come at the end of the month...they will be a TON of help! Ryder will love to see his Grandma Rosaline! and aunt Caralee!
We will of course keep you updated....

Oh some Ryder stories...

He got to feel Ruby kick. He thought it was pretty cool, his facial expression was the best!
After that he decided to put his face right to my tummy and say "hello baby Ruby... I love you!" he kept talking to her about this and that. Greg and I were so touched by how sweet Ryder is. He will be such a great loving big brother.

What has Ryder said lately??
Greg was playing with Ryder the other night... Ryder looks at Greg and says, "Greggy you're weird."
Greg loved it, it was totally unexpected.
Ryder LOVES to say, "um, Actually..." (then throws in a random word or phrase at the end.)
The funny thing is I guess I used to do the same thing at his age... Actually was my favorite word. Haha... we are in LOTS of trouble if Ryder is like me!!!!

2010-04-28T14:48:00.000-07:00

Wow we are going to be in so much trouble with Ryder. He is SUCH A TEASE! I just wanted to share a couple of recent silly stories of Ryder and his craziness....

Tuesday his Physical therapist comes to see him at the house. Every morning I tell him the plans for the day and he listens, and at times tells me how he feels about it.
Well Tuesday I said, "Ryder Linda (PT) is coming to play with you."
Ryder responds, " No Debbie." (his Occupational therapist)
I say, "No Ryder, Linda comes today."
He tells me as a matter of factly, " NO DEBBIE."
( I could clearly see he was teasing me.)
A few minutes later Linda walks up to door.
Kira says "Hi Linda, come in Linda."
Ryder quickly says " Hi Debbie, come in Debbie."
Linda of course was confused. I had to explain to her he was messing with us.
During therapy he called her Debbie, and kept looking right at me, thinking this was funny.
Then at the end of therapy Linda goes to leave....
Ryder says, "Good-bye Linda Debbie! have a good day Linda Debbie!"

What a stinker!!!! Later I had a green frog in my hand...
I ask "Ryder what color is this Frog??"
Ryder says, "BLUE!"
I say, "no its green, you know that."
He tells me as a matter of factly, "no mom its BLUE!"
I say, "ryder you are silly, the frog is Green!"
Then he points at a picture of Jesus...
he says "mom Jesus is blue, and the vent is blue."

At that point I lost it, laughing. I realized that I had a a true Jones grandkid on my hand.... A COMPLETE TEASE!!!!

Then today it got even better...
Debbie came to see Ryder.
Debbie held up an activity and said, "ok Ryder lets do the color wheel."
Ryder says, "oh no, beads."
(meaning the big bag of beads that he puts the shoe lace in.)
Debbie tells Ryder, " no ryder we are doing color wheel."
Ryder shakes his head, "no beads."
Debbie gave in to his negotiating .
They did beads then color wheel.

Later they were doing another activity. He is supposed to match these colored bears to the same color bowl. Instead of putting it is his hand she put it on the lid of his sippy cup.
He said " um Debbie, wrong bowl."
(saying that the sippy cup lid was not right, it wasnt the blue bowl!"

Later Debbie asked him to pick up the bears and bowls...
Debbie said, "ryder please pick up the bears."
Ryder says, "Debbie, shhhh! (with finger on lips) oh look Debbie! a vent!"(pointing at an AC vent)
totally changing the subject.
we had to laugh. He was trying to work us! And many times he's so smooth and sweet about it you cant help but give in.
Anyways Greg and I decided we are in trouble with this clever child!

2010-04-23T14:45:00.000-07:00

Thank you for comments on previous post...

Ryder is still not feeling well.... now a double ear infection. I am now pretty sick with a cough and cold. Bummer to that, considering we are trying everything possible to keep miss Ruby in longer. coughing does not help that at all... my drs are pretty nervous that I have this virus. My mom, Ryder and my dad all had the stupid pneumonia virus going around... my dad was even in hospital all week with it on oxygen and meds... so I sure as heck hope I got the antibiotics in me soon enough!! Oh and Greg is sick now to. YAY! for cold/ flu season! jk haha.

Valerie answering your question... Nope the kid does not give me nicknames... I guess mama aint cool enough. In a little boys eyes daddys the cool one. Ryder all day long will ask for Greggy, and ask to wrestle with Greggy. So I call up daddy, & daddy has to reassure Ryder that he will be home later to wrestle. They wrestle for forever! It is to much fun.
Now does Ryder talk about Ruby?? yes he def does. I have caught him talking to his tummy saying "hi baby-boobie" haha! yes he says it just like that. Baby Boobie...we need to correct that quickly! He also talk to the 4d ultrasound pictures...and points out that Ruby has 2 eyes, 2 ears...a nose a mouth etc. He is excited for baby Ruby... or as he says it "baby boobie."

2010-04-19T10:33:00.000-07:00

Life has still been crazy... full of appointments for myself and Ryder. It's been pretty eventful for myself. I have had some problems since the surgery. My body doesn't really like that it had surgery... causing some issues. I spent one day in Triage, and it was not fun. I was having pain where the surgery was done... and thought nothing of it. Something told me I should get it checked out... so I did. Apparently I was having contractions, and had no clue. The Dr (my reg, non-highrisk OB,Dr Bullero) had the nurses give me a high dose of tributaline (sp??). It stopped the contractions, and pain pretty quickly. They sent me home on trib every 6 hours.... geez it made me sooo shaky, but whatever it takes to keep this kid in!
The following day, my high risk Dr, Dr Blumrick saw me. He said that this can happen, but he knew what to do. I am now on motrin every 6 hours. Motrin relaxes my muscles, and helps the pain. I am still on modified bedrest. My goal is to make it to 28 weeks, then to 32, and so on.

Update on Ryder... he has been pretty dang sick. He has pneumonia... bummer. He is doing well considering. He got his first bike/trike and thinks its pretty cool. He moved to a "big boy" bed...and "big boy bedroom" he asks to "play in big boy room". haha. funny.
Ryder is still coming up with nick names for random things... most recent Greg is no longer daddy or dad... it is "greggy". where he came up with that, I have no idea...we laugh when he says it.

Well that is us! we will update as more happens : )

2010-04-04T16:27:00.000-07:00

This weekend has been eventful... friday all day at the zoo...it was fun...esp my motorized wheelchair! yay-ya! haha.
Ryder had fun...until the giraffe encounter... we paid 6$ to feed the giraffes and it was cool...for Greg and I, but as for Ryder...I dont think he is very fond of giraffes anymore... The huge giraffe went to eat out of his hand, and wrapped its tongue all the way around ryders hand...Ryder was screaming to death after that.
Early Saturday morning I went to St Joes hospital for a surgery. The surgery was an important procedure to help keep baby cookin safe inside me. So far so good, just in lots of pain as I recover. I am also on meds to prevent contractions...cuz the surgery irritates the cervix, and uterus. But the surgery had to be done in order to keep me from having another very preterm baby.
Thank you for all of the prayers that were said for us. We are grateful for the faith and prayers.

2010-03-23T21:53:00.000-07:00

So I am on bedrest... at my moms...been having many high risk issues...been in ER...seen many DR's this week...finally got answers to what is "wrong" with me... basically will always be high risk... keeping a baby in to term or close to it will be difficult, due to incompetent cervix & such ... it is possible to go closer to term with high risk drs by my side....High risk Dr today said it is possible if any problems after 24 weeks, he will "park me in the hospital for a long time"... so obviously if that happens, will need much help....
Dr today was awesome though...has a special needs son...and said he feels for me...and knows how difficult raising a special needs kid is. He said you have a dream as a parent of your kid to someday run down a field playing soccer, run down a court bouncing a ball...ride a dirt bike..etc. But when you are blessed with a special needs kid, your plan or dream changes...but its not to bad... because they do many other great things...like touch many lives by their beautiful personalities and qualities...and much more.
He talked about what a blessing all around a special needs child is, and how grateful he is to have one & wouldnt change it for anything! I couldn't help but smile, and completely agree to all of that.
He told me how happy he was that I was having another kid so close to ryder help him...and be his friend...he to has a daughter close in age to his special needs son...cool! He told me how great it is for his son to have the daughter there, because she helps him in ways no one else can.
I was so happy to talk to this doctor, so cool.
Well that is the update....will keep you all posted.

2010-03-12T11:41:00.000-08:00

4D ultrasounds kinda creep me out...but I thought I'd post this picture of baby for people that want to see :-) They are pretty much 100% sure its a girl. The highrisk dr said its a girl....cool cool. Sadly in the back of my mind I am relieved because if for some reason this kiddo comes as early as Ryder did (HOPEFULLY NOT!!!!) preemie girl's do MUCH better....and have a better survival rate. So yay, for a girl.
I have been having lower tummy pressure from time to time, so DR has me on bed-rest. She understands that I need to care for Ryder, so she lets me go to his therapies, and DR appts. Thank you to my great mother....she is always here to help! And my dad, and my 2 younger brothers. Thank you!!!
How cute is this...my 23 year old brother Aaron. Stopped by our house the other night just to say hi to Ryder, and play with him. He knew Greg was gone doing school work...Ryder was wanting to wrestle...so I said Aaron he really wanted to wrestle w greg, but he's gone. So Aaron wrestled with Ryder...it was so stinkin cute. Then he read Ryder a few books...he was there a long time! and Ryder loved it!
It was so nice, because I was down on the couch feeling pretty darn sick. Aaron was a life-saver.
I have to say Robert does stop by to see & play w Ryder to...My brothers are pretty kick butt. Thanks boys.

2010-03-05T19:26:00.000-08:00

oh and going along w the pics below... Ryder is obsessed with the ultrasound pics...he wanted to keep them...he holds them and talks to the pictures... "Hi baby, hi. Hi baby hi." hilarious.

2010-03-05T18:57:00.000-08:00

todays ultrasound pics....

Had 14 1/2 week appointment today...went well... Everything at this point looks ok. They are worried though that when I am up to long, I get lower pressure. I had lower pressure around this time with Ryders pregnancy. I guess the lower pressure I am feeling can become a problem with the cervix.
The doctors pretty much said take it VERY easy....and NO MORE DOING HAIR! My OB was pretty serious on that one....so sorry people...no more hair stylist Kira.
As long as my cervical length stays longer then a 2.8 I am ok (now its just over a 4, normal)...but they are taking a precautions at this point.
Dr Bullero knows that I have to care for Ryder, so she is letting me do that...but I have to be very careful.
Starting in a week and half, they will be giving me a shot every week to help prevent premature labor. I have heard great things about this shot...so yay.
Ryder had his first MRI the last week of February. The MRI went great....thanks to ST JOES...we love that hospital! They took all precautions with Ryder...intubated (sp?) him, did 2 IV's (knowing one usually fails)....and other stuff. It was such a great experience there at ST JOES....always is. We find out his results in 3 weeks. Oh BTW nothing wrong, that we had to get an MRI, he has needed one since his birth, and blood on the brain....now was the time, so we did it.

Ryders phrase of the day.... while I was changing his diaper...he looked up at me, smiled and said, "mommy, thank you for my diaper." It was so sincere, and sweet.
He is so polite...its hilarious.

2010-02-17T12:07:00.000-08:00

So hilarious....

So Ryder always wants to help vacuum, and could'nt...well Uncle Rob found a way....and Ryder LOVED it. haha...I was laughing so hard....as did everyone else that saw it. It was classic. Oh and here are the first pics I've posted of him and his cute little braces...he loves them!

2010-02-17T11:53:00.000-08:00

95% its a girl....the USound tech was 95% sure...then in the end was like...ahhh, it's a girl. I will believe it 100% when the doctor sees it and agrees. The ultrasound tech pointed out why its a girl....aka....no wiener from any angle. So we shall see...and once again all looks great!

2010-02-05T21:48:00.000-08:00

Many have asked for ultrasound pics...so here ya go....

Appointment today with high risk went great, everything is WONDERFUL so far.....but then again they are not scared of the first trimester at all with me....
This high risk DR was pretty upset with my last dr not doing anything for me....
I will be seeing a Dr each week...and 3d high risk ultrasound every 2 weeks.
In 2 weeks (12 weeks along) if the baby cooperates, they can tell me the sex of baby....because They have the best of the best ultrasound equipment...because they just see high risk patients.
People have asked if I will have a circlage (sp?) NO! they said in my case it is not necessary. Thank goodness!!!!
At 16 weeks I will begin to get hormone shots every week...to keep me from going into preterm labor.
If at any reason I show signs of preterm labor still after getting shots...they may hospitalize me, giving me meds....to stop labor.
After 16 weeks I am on bed rest...for the most part...since they have no clue as to why Ryder came early. Also at that time I can not pick up Ryder AT ALL... sad...but I have to do whatever it takes.
That for now is the doctors plans...I will update as time goes on.
I pray that all will be well this pregnancy.

2010-01-30T16:41:00.000-08:00

So many of my cousins on my side are pregnant...2 of my sisters pregnant...one cousin even due the same day as me, and some of gregs cousins are prego to...so I'm just throwing this out..... I am reserving a girl name... Ruby. (middle name is chosen but waiting to find out if it is a boy/girl, because I have to ask special permission for the name. will explain later : ) Boy name....I am clueless....??? We will think of a good one! eventually.
But if we have a girl it is Ruby...so dont take it. Just saying. haha.

2010-01-30T15:35:00.000-08:00

Had another OB appointment....all still looks great! She said, "I am not scared of the first 12 weeks...its the 12 to 24 weeks that scares me with you." She is such a WONDERFUL dr! HUGE difference from my previous DR. This new dr gives me a hug every time I leave.
She is high risk herself, she has Lupus (SP?) so she can relate to me feeling anxious and scared. She is going to see me every 2 weeks, and also she is not going to use a normal ultrasound machine. She is sending me to a special place with a high risk Ultra Sound machine, that I get every 2 weeks as well. She is also checking the length of my cervix with the ultrasound every 2 weeks. She wants to make sure all is done, to prevent a very early delivery. If at anytime I show any signs of High Risk, she is sending me to her own personal high risk dr. She said it is hard to get into him, but she will get me in no matter what. Yeah I pretty much love her! she is incredible! I found out about her by chance....but dude I am so happy I did.

Ryder update... So this kid constantly is coughing... ALWAYS... He was on a breathing treatment each day... "an average dose". But wasn't working...we finally went to see a pulminologist . He did a long exam, many questions. Then in the end he said , "well Ryder has asthma. Not an average case of asthma, but pretty severe asthma." I'm like "oh great!!!!"
So now Ryder has a high dose of steroid 2 x daily, and albuterol as needed. He gets them by an inhaler, SOOOO much better then 30 min for the breathing machine!
His asthma is genetic (thanks to Kira!, sorry kiddo) totally unrelated to being preemie, or cerebral palsy.
So his asthma kicks into full on crazy mode...when he gets sick, around dust or dirt, windy days, pollution.... fun fun!!!! Sorry kid, no dirtbike tracks for you!
That is us these days!
Thank you for all of the comments! we are grateful for all of the prayers.

2010-01-26T15:39:00.000-08:00

Ryder's new phrase... "baby, tummy." meaning...mommy has a baby in her tummy. Yep...I am 9 weeks pregnant this week. Had an ultrasound last week...so far so good. Heart beat is strong...fast! I got to see the baby move around to... Ryder got to see it to...but didn't understand what it was of course.
People wonder...how will this pregnancy be for me?? well...we do not know. I plan to change Drs to a high risk team. I am most def high risk...after having a 26 weeker before. My new DR is planning on doing everything possible to help keep this kid in longer then 26 weeks! So far I am basically banned from carrying my sweet Ryder around...and I am told to take it easy. Greg has been so great, as usual....helping with Ryder, cleaning...etc. After this thursday I will find out if I am on official bedrest or not. Whatever it takes.
We are excited...and hope all goes well with this pregnancy!!! can't help but be nervous though!
Oh my due date is aug 31.

2010-01-02T20:12:00.000-08:00

Ryder's a freakin crack up...Greg and I many times during the day can't help but laugh our butts off at the things Ryder says or does. He is simply hilarious. First the kid makes up nick names for things...on his own...for instance the bottle became "bobbie", his Dad is "dad'n", his binkie is "inkie". (eventhough he totally knows how to say the real word)

He always says thank you...even when he's crying for his "bobbie." Hand him his bobbie and instantly you get a smile with a "hank-u".

Another famous phrase of Ryders " inkie! er' are you?...Inkie!? Inkie!? er' are you!....(then he spots it) he then giggles "Oh inkie!"

Today he said, "mom, please Bobbie...mom please."

Earlier today he sneezed..and instantly said "bless you." I was crackin up.

He is obsessed with shadows or reflections coming into the house... he looks up...points and yells "mom! mom!" I say, yes Ryder I see...remember it's just a reflection. Then he says "huh?" then I explain like MANY times before what a reflection is and shadows. Then in the end he repeats.."etch-on" (reflection)

Today we are in a parking lot... Ryder yells..."oooh, Bus!"

He loves wrestling...so he says "dad'n estle!"

My parents took him for a ride the other day and my dad said "Im gonna get you!" Ryder quickly responds all tough..."get me!"

On Ryders bday my mom and some utah cousins were in the car with Ryder...we started singing Happy bday to you....Ryder says "TO ME!!! TO ME!!!"

I told Ryder yesterday you are not one any more...you are 2!! he says, "I two?" I say yes ryder you are 2! He says a smarty pants-y way..."I two, I two" holding up five fingers....haha. he'll get the two fingers down soon!

Today I hear Ryder doing his "reading" saying "o-h-a-e-b-..." he's reading the words on a work van passing by...hilarious.

OH! today while driving...Ryder says to greg and I, "I cute, I cute." (as a matter of factly way) I laugh and greg laughs...and say "yes ryder you are cute! very cute!"

What kid likes to go to bed??? Ryder...he will say "GO TO BED! (giggles) then smile and says very happily go to bed." well ok, I guess thats a sign you are sleepy?? and sure enough he goes right to bed! LUCKY US!

Oh we went for a hay ride during Christmas time. Ryder heard everyone saying merry christmas...while waving...so Ryder intantly says "ERRY KISTMAS! ERRY Kistmas!" while waving. He now does that ALL OF THE TIME! even though Christmas is over...hilarious.

One thing kids are not supposed to get down speech wise is the letter "R"...well he cdan say it pretty clear when he thinks about it...yay, cuz I didnt say them til like 3rd 4th grade!

All I gotta say is what a kid! Gotta love him! I could hold him and kiss his cheek all day!

2010-01-01T16:05:00.000-08:00

Happy 2nd birthday Ryder! (dec 30..I'm late posting!)
His 2nd Birthday was fun...COLD! And not to mention he has a bad cold! but we decided he'd have fun at the park with his cousins...he was TIRED! but had a blast still.
He had 2 birthday parties...one on the 12 or 13? then on the 30...We had a ton of fun. Ryder got SOOOO many clothes and toys...then more on Christmas! He got 3 different guitar shirts, and LOVES them!
Christmas was so much fun! we had my sister Carrie her husband Gordy, and their 4 kids stay with us. Christmas morning we had my parents, 2 of my brothers, and Carries fam with us christmas morning. What a blast!

2009-11-25T20:37:00.000-08:00

this is the "swash" hip/leg brace...
This is an example of the type of ankle and leg braces...he can pick a design.

So we got news about Ryder...first the results of blood work were great...his immune system apparently is kickin' major butt. He since that test has been sick with a cold...and as usual catches a nasty cough with the cold. The cough was getting pretty yucky, so we took him in to the doctor. The doctor gave us an answer...its asthma. He said that he def has asthma. Which explains why he always gets a cough w everything... So we have him on breathing treatments once a day to prevent illness.
Next news is we had a WONDERFUL appointment today with an orthopedic specialist. They gave us great hopes for Ryder. To sum up the long appt...Ryder is getting into leg braces and hip braces..
Ryder's body feels so unstable...when we sit him up (while holding him up) his legs stick straight out, and at time cross over each other ("scissoring")...his brain can only focus on one thing at a time, so all those issues work against each other. SO Barb, the orthotic specialist, is making him braces for his legs and hips. Ryder's "AFO's" (leg braces) will help hold his feet in the correct position...and not constantly pointed downward.
Barb showed us what these devises do in videos of other kiddos she has seen recently. They were JUST like Ryder... then w/in a year, they were walking with braces and a walker. AMAZING!
Children with Cerebral palsy tend to have low self esteems, because they are often looked at by their peers as "babies" or weird...because while other kids are walking running, here is little Ryder on the floor laying down...in one spot...which to a kid, thats a "baby"...eventhough he's older and bigger..and even smarter haha. Our goal is to quickly get him sitting standing, so he can feel more "normal"...and like other kids his age.
We look forward to him getting braces! it's so exciting! I'm sure I'll cry my eyes out to see him walking on his own for the first time! even though it'll be w a walker!

2009-11-10T14:51:00.000-08:00

WOW! It has been a long long time! I am so sorry to those that follow this blog! I guess no news is good news..haha.
Well Ryder is doing great. He still gets sick a lot...but no hospitals! He recently got blood work done to figure out what the heck is going on with his immune system. Shortly we will find out! Doc's orders are for Ryder to stay home pretty much always...unless we are headed out for appointments and such. Doc said NO CHURCH! he thinks thats one place that is the source of illness...and we most def agree! So Ryder and myself stay home and play games, and do preschool stuff. Ryder LOVES preschool stuff...like crafts, letters, numbers...etc. He could sit at his little desk and color, and do crafts ALL day if I let him. We have a little desk that he sits at by the front window. He sits and watches the planes fly over, and cars drive by...while he is coloring...its so cute to watch. He's one smart kiddo.
Ryder now repeats EVERYTHING...so we have to be careful. Ryders favorite words now are....air"pain" (airplane), Guy-tar (guitar), "I know"...he says I know with a sassy tone...its sooooo funny. He will tell you "no, no, no, no" sassy but adorable to...while wiggling his finger at you....geez he really says anything though...but those are his fav things.
Ryder is now 34 inches long, and 27 lbs...wearing 2 T, and growing into some 3T! long long kid!
Ryder had his cousin Maggie visit last week...she is like 5 months old...and learned to roll over while here. Ryder watched her constantly...and now he kind of has figured rolling out...but I think he favors his scooting on back...he feels comfortable with that. We are trying to encourage the rolling and scooting on belly....but he is one stubborn kid! Let me tell you....he is SOOOO stubborn! but then again thats whats kept him alive since day one.
His wonderful therapists get to see first hand how stubborn he can be. Today he threw a complete fit with Linda....totally workin' it! could turn the tears off and on in 2 seconds! One thing I was told early on was Special Needs kiddos TOTALLY learn to manipulate the parents...and man Ryder has us wrapped around his finger...and we cant help it. Ryder is pretty pro at it though...with his cute smile.
As for Greg and myself...we are doing great. Greg is busy at work...and loves it! He is signing up for classes this week. Probably going for business degree. Greg recently made a demo song...and I have to say it pretty much kicks butt. He is so talented with the guitar. Him and his cousin Gary are starting a band called Death Jackson...I think it is a just for laughs kinda deal...but DAng its still good music!!....haha. Him and Gary are really good musicians though....so it'll be funstuff.
I am still the same ol' story haha...home, or at appointments with Ryder...like all the time! My visiting teacher asked when she could come see me...I told her well my schedule is pretty crazy...so I wrote out my schedule and she was like "wow you were serious, you are busy!" But every therapy and DR appt is needed for Ryder...so Im cool with it. Whatever it takes to help Ryder improve!
Well thats us! sorry again it took a long time to post!

2009-09-05T21:38:00.000-07:00

dsrgfrfvc fd xy cfuvhhhhhhhhhhhhhh nnn oli;l nm

vuk x
ryder wanted to leave a note for you all.... mj v byfgubghghhhgb jm 6yhhhhhhtttttttttt

2009-09-05T21:12:00.000-07:00

Hey Hey...you all. It has been a few weeks. Life here has been busy as usual with Ryder and therapies. He is doing great. He has started scooting around everywhere....on his back. He pushes off with his legs...and away he goes! I love being in the bathroom doing my hair...and then...WHOA! there's Ryder laughing away at my feet. We are so happy that he has figured out how to move around! Now we actually have to make sure that all small things are up off the ground, and that the outlets are covered. What a kid!
So a new word...."disgusting" or as he says it.."g-is-ust-ing" haha. Oh and he enjoys prayers! he thinks when we close our eyes its funny....and he'll repeat random words in the prayer..then say "Ch-Ist- men" AKA "Christ-amen".
This kid thinks he's reading everything! Wear a shirt with words...he points and pretends to read it. The other day we were at my mom's and he was "reading" a side of a box. Billboards...street signs...he'll read. Hilarious.

Another new thing is everything to him flys and says "vrooooooooom"....even his binkie.
So health update on Ryder....
We got results from his blood work on weds....his immune system is low....the next day....he was sick already. He is pretty sick with the croop/ cold...and thrush. He's on 6 medicines at the moment. FUN FUN! Getting breathing treatments several times a day...which he hates!
So October 1st we are moving into a house. The house is about 4 houses down from my parents. We are very excited and relieved to move there! We live in a fairly small apartment and are running out of space with all of Ryder's medical stuff! So it is time to get out!
The house will be great! It's a 4 bedroom 3 bath house...with a huge backyard! and trees. We are very grateful to the wonderful lady renting it to us....she is very kind! Thanks Donetta! It's funny cuz I grew up with this woman and her children...and now I am renting thier house. Crazy.
It will be soooooo nice being closer to my mom & dad. My mom is Ryder's respite worker. She helps us out so much. We have def been thru a lot with Ryder's condition...and my parents have been there for us through it all. We are so grateful! They really are great! We do not know what we would do with out them! (side note....Greg's parents are amazing to! and we know they would do just as much if they were near!)
They were there waiting in the hospital during his birth...were there during the NICU...there thru many of our tears...and here whenever we need them! Thanks mom and dad....hope you can handle us being your neighbors!

2009-08-19T19:37:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I posted something fun about our lil' guy...so this post is going to be about things he's done lately...

What Ryder has been up to these days...

So Ryder got a new Speech Therapist...and she is a bunch of fun! He loves her already! Her first visit she evaluated him...to find out what to do with him...She told me at his age (19 months) he should be at about 15-20 words. I was like really? hmmm...cuz he says more then 20! so that night I added up all his regular words...and came up with almost 50!!!! Those do not count the ones he'll repeat...they are ones he says daily on his own. So he is one brilliant kid!!! here are some things he says...and phrases

"dog"----"duck,quack"---"go in car"----"going in car"---"Kira!"--"Greg!"---"greg, come"---"buddy come here"---"moon!!"---"Bike!"---"gu-gu-tar" (guitar)----"Bruno"---"eat"---"eeeew, stinky!" ----"go-gma" ---"play"----"owie" ----"A, E, O, I" (his version of ABC's)---"eieioooooo"---"OH YEAH!"---"hey Kid!"----"hey you"---- "yes"---
AND MANY MANY MORE!!!!!!

This kid is a talking machine...it's so fun! The crazy thing is, is technically we are still supposed to correct his age, since he was born so 3 1/2 months early... so really right now we are supposed to consider him 16 months old....so all these words!!!!!!!! WOW!!!!!!!!!!! AMAZING! MIRACLE!

So a recent story about him and his intelligence....

Greg and Ryder and I were at my parents helping Aaron fix his car. It was dark out...so Ryder sat in his wheelchair staring at the sky. He loves doing this! He watches the stars, and airplanes fly overhead...and he ALWAYS points out the moon and says "moon, moon."
Well that night Ryder noticed this really big-bright star. He knew it was different then normal. He pointed at it and said to me, "huh? huh?"
I said, "oh Ryder that is a planet."
he said "huh?"
I saw that he obviously was curious about this "planet"
So I said to Aaron and Greg "hey what planet is that?"
Aaron said "I think its Saturn???"
So I told Ryder "Hey that's Saturn ryder, it's the moons brother, we live on earth the moons sister, and the Sun is the moons sister to."
About a half hour later Greg comes over and says "ryder where's saturn?"
Ryder looks directly at saturn and says "ss-urn" and points.

We were sooo shocked! he remembered! so we said Oh RY you are our NASA genius!!!

So then three days later or so...we got home one night...at our house...not my mom's where we showed him Saturn ( if it was saturn may be venus) a few days previously.
Greg says "Ryder where is Saturn?"
Ryder looks, searches, and finds that bright star and points at it...
"ss--urn."
Then we ask "Ryder where are the stars?"
he looks all around and points and moves around finger...meaning everywhere!
He always shows us the moon to...
So dang! how smart!!!!

Another story...

We have been teaching Ryder his ABC's lately. He loves them! So one day he was playing in his room with toys and books...
I peeked in to check on him...
he had a book opened and was pointing at the letters saying "A-E-O-I_H"
He totally thought he was reading! haha...I was so proud of him, and he knew it!

Today he told my nephew Zakry "I Love ooo"

This kid is always doing the coolest things! That seriously make us sooooo proud!
Ya know this kid may have his struggles physically, but mentally NOT at all! And that makes us soooo happy! It makes it easier on us...takes away from us focusing on his physical disabilities...and getting down about that.

Dang Ryder is soooo cool!!!

2009-08-07T18:48:00.000-07:00

Ryder and his awesome wheelchair!

2009-08-07T18:39:00.000-07:00

feeling yucky headed to hospital....

Happy to be feeling better...

sick boy...

Headed home!

2009-08-05T22:38:00.000-07:00

So what's our latest craziness happening in our life??? well, well, well.....oh where do we begin???
Since our post forever ago...we came back from Idaho...life was normal for us for a bit...then one night I (Kira) cut my heel to the bone...barely missing major tendons...and whatnot... in the end I got 8 stitches. How did this happen?? Well I made my lil' Ryder a cute vintage cowboy curtain to go with his room...and I was putting up the hooks for the rod...and stepped off the stool directly onto the curved part of the Rod....slicing it to the bone. It was crazy cuz Greg had just left for an hour with out the cell phone...Thank goodness for great neighbors! Lorenza and her family came to my rescue...and cared for Ryder.
This past week Ryder has been and still is in the hospital. Why?? well...We went to my grandparents cabin in forest lakes Az...were having a great time...then Saturday Ryder got fussy....and a fever. I thought, "oh it's just his molars (sp?) coming in....well his temp sunday morning was at 101 ish... so we headed home early to go to urgent care. By the time we got there his temp was at 104 plus....so they said ok with Ryders "lovely" history he needs to head straight to the ER now. So away to Phoenix Childrens we went!
They have done many tests...and have come up with nothing...except its a virus. Motrin took the fever down to 101 ish til yesterday. Now he's back to normal on his temp...thanks to IV and fluids. Of course Ryder got dehyrated quickly....he does that no matter what when he is ill. Ryder is getting some tests tomorrow from a team of GI dr's ( intestinal drs...and such). While he has been in the hospital they found non related stuff to his virus....but they found he has some stuff wrong with his intestins...from an infection he had called "NEC" in the NICU. So tomorrow he gets some fun xrays..and tests. Hopefully after that he can come home but who knows...they said they are taking all precautions with him cuz of his crazy history...so we shall see.
NOW AS FOR MORE GOING ON....GEEZ...um to begin...the other night our van kinda broke right when Greg pulled into the hospital, so we were borrowing my mothers blazer. Well lets just say the blazer is no more....and I'm in major pain.
I was driving home yesterday to get a break from the hospital...and was in rush hour traffic..at a dead stop....all the sudden someone going 55 MPH plus...rammed right into the back of me. It actually hit so hard she went under me and pushed me into the HOV lane with cars coming right at me...fortunately God was def watching over me...cuz the cars missed Tboning me...and also I easily could've been thrown into oncoming traffic on the opposite side of freeway. So Yes I am in TOTAL pain...but I won't take much meds cuz I need to care for Ryder.
So thats our crazy crazy life. I just hope Ryder gets well soon and gets home.

2009-06-23T18:55:00.000-07:00

You gotta love it, when you are out of state...and your child gets sick!! But I'm not surprised with our lil' guy. He has had an awful cold the past week...and just as he's getting over it, his ear acts up!!! EEEEEK!
Last night he screamed for about 4 hours straight. I knew it was just his right ear ( the usual ) So I tried soothing him, but nothing worked. Greg of course is still in Arizona, so it was rough. I didn't want to wake up the Page's, so I stood in the front room bouncing Ryder in my arms. Soon his ear started leaking fluid, and his crying slowly stopped. I was happy for that, but knew his ear infection had just began!
Today it's leaking blood. Nasty....but at least his tubes are working!!!
I came prepared for it all though! I brought every sort of medication I have for the kid...and so far I've needed them all!!! even the breathing treatments/steroids for his congestion.
I'm hoping tonight is not a repeat of last night! The Dr said his ear drops should work within 24 hrs to 3 days...IT BETTER!!! haha.
Greg I can't wait for you to get here!!!! haha. We miss you so much!!!

2009-06-18T18:06:00.001-07:00

The view from the Page's backyard...beautiful.

2009-06-18T17:53:00.000-07:00

Ryder at Grandma Rosaline's swinging...

2009-06-18T12:56:00.001-07:00

2009-06-18T11:28:00.001-07:00

2009-06-18T11:24:00.000-07:00

Shiloh you are AmAzInG!!! you did such a beautiful job on Ryder's photos! ThAnK YoU soooo much!!! We LOVE them! everyone check out her blog!!! she's soooooo good! smckinnonphotograpghy.blogspot.com

Here's some of the pics!

Enjoy.

2009-06-18T11:20:00.001-07:00

2009-06-08T22:32:00.000-07:00

So Ryder got his first "real" pictures....they are adorable! Our friend Shiloh took them, and did a wonderful job! until I get the disk....check out his pics at smckinnonphotography.blogspot.com
Enjoy!

Ryder and I made it up to Idaho...We stopped and met my niece and Ryder's cousin....Maggie. What a doll! She's adorable! chunky babies are the best! Springville is beautiful. I love Utah and it's beauty....but I'm not to sure if I could live there.

Greg's mom picked us up today in Springville and drove us up here to Dayton Idaho....we are here for 3 weeks! Ryder gets to spend time with his granny Rosaline, and Grandpa Brett, and of course his Aunt Caralee....and many others!!!!!(yes you to Sarah G!!!)

Thanks Shiloh for the pictures! Greg gave your link to co-workers they all want you to take pics of them! haha.

2009-05-30T23:50:00.000-07:00

2009-05-30T23:30:00.000-07:00

so the other day Ryder was in our living room playing with toys...a regular thing for him....he usually can only move within a 2 foot area...he moves by kicking his cute little legs....he kicks and kicks and slowly scoots his butt around the floor....
anyways Ryder was in the middle of the floor, and started kicking...and moving...kicking and moving....he reached our couch....he realized this was pretty dang cool.....so he kept doing it.....next thing he knew he was like 10 feet away from where he started...then cleared the hallway corner....and scooted all the way to his own room. It was so cool!!!
while scooting Greg and I were cheering him on....saying, "Ryder you did it! you did it!"
Ryder kept yelling SO loud, "I DID IT!! I DID IT!"
It was simply adorable.
It was not til later, because we were so excited...we realized that it was pretty advanced for him to change the you to I....(you did it to, I did it)
I had to ask his speech pathologist if this was expected from a 17 month old....she said oh no....if anything they'd say "me did it".
So we are so proud! He's always saying such cute things....like...I love you, Good boy, Eat ( he yells it while he's eating cuz he's so excited) My brother Robert he calls "berr" hilarious...he even says excuse me when he burps....(in his own language haha, but we understand it) He's so good.
anyways here's the pics.....

2009-05-30T23:25:00.001-07:00

2009-05-13T22:04:00.000-07:00

Greg was so proud of Ryder....
Ryder LOVES guitars!!! his eyes light up
and screams in excitement for the guitar...its quite cute.

2009-05-13T22:03:00.000-07:00

uncle Rob is so mean...

2009-05-13T21:47:00.000-07:00

For those who did not see my post on DJ Gregory, you are missing out on such a beautiful inspirational story. Please check out this link..... hopefully it works....
http://abcnews.go.com/WN/PersonOfWeek/story?id=6254778

I wrote DJ a few months ago....and today he emailed us back....what an amazing person!!! he has just put out a book....he asked that I tell everyone I know to get it! It's called "Walking With Friends: An Inspirational Year on the PGA TOUR"

He even gave us his number and asked how Ryder was...cool huh!? because he is a true inspiration to us...and someday when Ryder understands, I hope that he'll inspire him as well.

What a wonderful story...check it out!

Kira

2009-05-07T20:03:00.000-07:00

yes...I did it, I finally posted pics!!! & updates! enjoy!

2009-05-07T19:53:00.000-07:00

This kid is so hilarious!!

man i love this kid!!!

uncle rob propped him up...he stood for like 10 seconds!

hehe...look at me dad!!!

laughing at Rob.....tickling him.

ryder loves this red ball at grandma's house!! cuz he can actually hold it!

2009-05-07T18:37:00.000-07:00

Update on Ryder boy! He's still the cutest kiddo ever!!! We've been very busy still with doctors and specialists and therapies!!! And I'm still trying to catch up from the hospital stay...he still has a cough from that to!!

The new updates....Ryder saw an amazing Doctor...Dr. Kwaznica. She said that Ryder is def moderate more so severe CP. But the crazy thing is that he does things that he totally shouldnt considering the severity of the CP. Like opening his right hand up....waving.....and things like that. He actually said "good boy" to her....she laughed and agreed that he indeed was a good boy! and oh he is! For the first time he didnt cry with the dr, he laughed with her....that was good to see. I thought he'd be traumatized for life after the hospital.

After all our doctor appointments this is what kinds of cerebral palsy he has.....fyi sometimes people only have one type of cp. The most common is Diplegia...which ryder has, as well as several others.

Once again they believe Ryder is mentally there....which I'm pretty sure of....he told my mom the other day "i uv u" pretty good for a 16 monther i think.

anyways these are the types that he has...all combined with the descriptions....so they all work against eachother, which is why we are pretty sure he'll be in a wheelchair his whole life....but thats ok, he can do many things in it!!!! he thought the wheelchairs at the dr yesterday were pretty cool! it was cute. He gets his first wheelchair next week! yay!!! the pics i posted a few months ago. .... ok no here are his cp types.......

Diplegia: is the term used in the types of cerebral palsy that affect the lower extremities. These patients may be able to control arm and trunk functions but have the most difficulty with leg movement.
(ryder has this but another that affects his arms and trunk as well)

Quadriplegia: is used to define the types of cerebral palsy that affect all four extremities and impair trunk and neck muscle movements. This is often the most severe form of cerebral palsy and is therefore usually the most debilitating.
( this is the saddest one he has, it'll be rough for him to deal with.)

Hemiplegia: involves the types of cerebral palsy that affect one side of the body. Usually one arm and one leg are impaired in hemiplegia and is usually the result of a cerebrovascular accident (stroke) that occurs while the child is a fetus or during infancy.
(ryder's right side is affected by this, he hardly uses his right side....esp his arm/hand)

Spastic: Spastic cerebral palsy causes movements to be stiff or difficult to execute. In these types of cerebral palsy the muscles may not be able to relax properly.
(Ryder goes back and forth on this one....one second he is as stiff as a board, then totally limber the next minute, but its annoying for him needless to say!)

So we see that life will def be hard on him, and us. The doctor said that as time moves on it will show more severe symptoms....but its ok.
I'm not going to lie, it is hard to take in. The hardest for me as his mother, is watching him around other children. They are up running around him, and taking toys away, and just being regular kids. Then he's pretty helpless laying in one spot crying when they run away and he can't follow. My sister stephanie's kids are really good at hanging around him, and playing with him...esp Drake! what good cousins Ryder has! all of them are great.
I try not to focus on the sadness in my heart when he's around other kids, but I can't help just for that split second, to feel so sad for him. I just remember it cant change....but all I can do is teach him to be strong...and that he's one cool boy just the way he is!!! I met this woman at the dr yesterday that had a son with physical disabilities. I asked her how do you teach them to ignore peoples many stares?? she said I tell my son just smile and wave, say hi. She said it always works. Smiles almost always work! gotta love smiles.
Well thats my thoughts. wow! a lot! but minds just filled with so much : )

2009-04-15T22:47:00.000-07:00

I changed our background to one that will stay for awhile...so I erased links, and other crap...i will fix that all soon...sorry!

2009-04-07T14:46:00.000-07:00

Hey please check out our dear friend Bryon's Link.... to the right of this. Bryon is Greg's best friend...like a brother since they were really little. Bryon a while back....like a year or so??? was diagnosed with brain cancer.....STUPID CANCER!!! we hate cancer! yuck! anyways please look at his blog and check out his story.

Thanks,
Kira, Greg, & Ryder.

2009-04-07T14:34:00.000-07:00

So Ryder Ryder~~~ why do you have to always get sick, poor baby!!??? Ryder has another double ear infection.....BAD, PAINFUL....stupid ear infections!!!! I wish that we could just take away all this stupid sickness, pain away.....but we are hanging in here....We just feel bad for him.

Greg and I are well.... yesterday was my bday.....27 yay...no grey hair yet!!! surprisingly huh!? jk. I've wanted a costco card for like EVER!!!!! finally I got one for my bday! and a couple other things....but oh that costco card..... LOVE IT!!!!!!!

Moving this time has been different for us....my attitude about moving in all quick, and making the house look all cute within a few days this time.....so is not happening....i could care less. Greg and I are so wiped out from the stress of EVERYTHING that i'm like agh...who cares. So we have a sh-load of boxes packed up high on my back porch. Instead of staring at them and letting it bug me, I walk by and could really care less. HAHA....how bad is that!!??? I'm like agh, i'll get to it when my energy is back, and when I'm up to it. But today's not that day. No worries....i'm not depressed or anything!!! haha....I just am not in the mood to unpack the mess. ...n ot to mention Ryder wants noone but his mommy. After all the pokes and probs at the hospital, Ryder just wants his mom!!! and I can't blaim him...but it's ok I love him....he's such a CUDDLEBUG!!!!

Thats us : ) this week.

2009-04-02T12:22:00.001-07:00

Real quick update....Ryder is still in the hospital.....the test results came back negative for RSV...but he does have Para3-influenza. Yuck. The stool tests said he does not have rotavirus...yay! but he def had a stomach bug.

He's ok, but still pretty sick. He has a HORRIBLE cough! that is so bad it causes him the throw up....last night a bad rash appeared that's part of influenza. They changed his formula to a lactose free formula.....which is working great! his GI Doc was planning on doing that before anyways. He's just miserable. They have a Resp. therapist coming it and pounding his chest and back every 4 hours to break up the congestion....cuz CP kids dont have a strong enough cough to do that themselves. His IV popped out when I left this morning. They said that they would leave it for now, and watch his fluid level closely.....hoping he'll eat enough to stay hydrated. He's only eating 2.5 oz every hour and a half....usually he eats 6-7 oz that often...when hes at full feeds we'll go home....i hope! so just please keep him in your prayers.

as for the move......my family and some friends moved us. Apparentely its all in boxes in my new place.....waiting for me : ) so that'll be fun.

thanks for the comments! OH!! & as for my prior post, Ryder is getting top service now! the nurse manager found out what had happened and was SO MAD!!! shes made sure we are all set with everything now....and even brought us a sweet card saying sorry....and ryder gifts. We are def in good hands now. ...and the Doc is doing great now to....once he talked to Ry's GI DR...it was better for me.

2009-03-30T21:28:00.000-07:00

Ryder is in the hospital...the bug has got him bad. Its been a scary weekend....so bad we had to call 911.... Ryder is still having bad issues with everything.....they say preemies catch it all....esp the ones that get CP......well thats true....I think Ryder has rotavirus....a horrible infection in the intestines/ stool.
Banner desert is being lame...and I hate it there. I'm trying to get him to Phoenix childrens where his GI doctor is... and nuero doc.....cuz banner desert is not answering my Q's....and treating me like I dont know my own kid...they sent in some "specialist" today to make sure that I knew my "my sons diet of only formula shouldnt continuw after one year old..." WELL DUH!!! you think I dont know my kid!!!!????? I kindly told the girl that Ryder shes MANY DR's and specialists and he's on the formula still for a reason!they told me to keep it that way cuz he has cp!!!! and isnt a "normal kid!"
Then Ryder puked all over his arm/ IV bandaids....( ill explain that sad ordeal) anyways I've beenbugging them to change it or cover it...they wont.....I'm not happy with the service there at all! I'm so stressed out with it all....i never cry but ugh they put me there!!!
But WONDERFUL DR MANCUSO!!!! I LOVE THE GUY!!!!! wow he made us feel so much better, he saw rys name on the ER name list, and hunted us down our first trip there saturday....and was so kind and cheered us up....then today i was SO stressed and was walking out the peds doors and there he was....he gave me a hug and told me that we are so good, and strong. What a wonderful DR, unfortunately with what ry has dr mancuso cant help.
And Shannon Green...she made us feel so good in the ER shes the child life specialist/and my moms neighbor....and amazing at her job! she made Greg and I and Ryder feel so much better....she was with us thru the ER stay...which wasnt good for little Ryder.
w/in 24 hours ryder was poked 19 times for a Iv's only 2 of those pokes were a success. The EMT couldnt get it....he went thru 6 or so ER nurses attempting it.....they were talking about doing a neck IV on a big vein or thru the bone marrow....drlling into the bone. They were desperate...but a great ER nurse steve ( great guy!!!) tried 3 more times with a special light and got it!
since ryders had a rough life with many iv's his veins are scarred and extremely hard to get an iv into. So now we have to ask for a trauma nurse to get the IV...in fact greg juswt called and said ryders iv went bad a half hour ago....and the nurse was going to try for another iv but Greg said, "no! get a trauma nurse to do it" and the T nurse came and got it on the first shot. Thank goodness!!!!! ryders body already is filled with white dots from the NICU ivs, and pricks....and today he's covered in little purple bruises from the 20 x hes been poked for ivs alone...that doesnt include the pokes for blood work either!
On top of all this....we are not moved out at all and our lease is up tomorrow....i hope something works out....because we are so overwhelmed with Ryder I hate thinking about the move.
I'm trying to stay happy and positive but this time its SOOOOOOOOO hard....I feel like im losing my mind....ugh. and Greg is feeling the stress to. We love ryder so much and this worries us badly....we are not getting the answers we need at Banner desert and i hate that. so tomorrow im going to try and get him transferred to phoenix childrens...where all his major DR's are...and i love the staff there!
oh i think ryder has rotavirus....i had to research his symtoms myself and figure it out...lame huh??? a nurse at desert agrees with me. but they wont test him for it....so lame. and they are testing him for RSV because he has a cough....i keep telling them....its his reflux, and low tone and CP....and that his throat is irritated by the puking....but they have him on lock down for RSV....im so frustrated!!!! I know my own kid.. he isnt even congested its a dry cough. oh well. Sorry can you tell im so mad!?? i'll try and update more later.

2009-03-26T16:00:00.000-07:00

Life's been pretty typical for us....cRaZy!!!!! We had issues with the move, and still have not moved.....the new apartment totally screwed things up....they gave us the wrong size apartment....WAY TO SMALL!!! then after much drama we finally got the last big apartment available. The catch is we cant move in til the 31st...the same day our current lease is up....UGH! so we will be going insane that day.....more so then we are now. JK.

Lets update on Ryder....he's been to many appointments lately....the most important was the Gastro. appt. Ryder was diagnopsed w/ bad acid reflux. now hes on meds!!! zantac?? 3 x a day!! and milk of magnesia once a day. Its working! yay! no more puking all the time......with exceptions of today....

Today Ryder came down with a wicked bad stomach bug....enough to make me SO nervous! he's having a very hard time with it. Poor guy.

I'll write more at a later time....but all is well for us.
cool things ryder does now....says "car" "go" "ba-ba" "neener-neener" "yes" "ah-oo-ee!" (aka one two three!) "og" (dog) ......lots of words!!!! his speech path. says he say-sounds/ words that most kids dont learn til about five. Ryder also enjoys shaking his head....no no no no! he loves to read!!! he wont eat the book...he'll stare at the words as you point and read...and he turns the pages for you! At night Ryder looks to the sky searching for the moon....he loves the moon!!!
During the day if he hears a plane he looks for it and smiles. Ryder also LOVES playing with grandma Wilstead's wooden train set....he sits in his special chair and puts the train on the track (or tries!) and plays for at least an hour with the trains, and cars!

What a miracle! huh? this all shows that mentally this kid is so there! we are happy for that!

2009-03-09T20:09:00.000-07:00

I just have to say thank you for all of your comments! We appreciate them so much! We are sorry we can't comment back as often as we should. We usually are on here just to update the blog then sign off. Just know that we get all the beautiful comments and we love them! It brings smiles to our faces.

So Ryder, Ryder, Ryder.....one week after surgery update.....ANOTHER EAR INFECTION!!! yes, even with the tubes. Man, i just wish I could take the ear infections myself, but not possible. He hasn't slept well this entire week...fussy and in pain. This morning he woke up I picked him up and saw the right ear drained tons of fluid down his ear and cheek. I'm like, "uh-oh!" Dr Mancuso said that was a sign of an ear infection. Well I called him, and they said this was a sign of a very bad ear infection...that would require STRONG antibiotic drops. I just feel for this kid!

The best part, is besides the long nights of squirming around in his crib, you'd never know this kid had another ear infection. That's how he is through everything though. He rarely cries....just smiles. I just love him so much he's so sweet!!!! and special. We are SO BLESSED! we are constantly handed everything we need to care from him from Heavenly Father....It just reassures me that this little kid has a special plan here....so far this kid has touched many lives. We are just so grateful to have him in our home. I hope we will do a good job!

So we also got a new number 480-584-0071....for all those who have tried. Sorry I just got this new perm. #.

Also Greg and I are moving on the 21st...to Gilbert! gil and guad....it'll be fun. We'll be moving into a bigger place. YAy!

2009-03-04T10:49:00.000-08:00

We got home today. Ryder's surgery itself went well. Coming out of anesthesia was the scary part. Apparently Ryder had some issues there. I didn't dig for the details, because I didn't want to know. From what I know, Ryder Choked....or something. He stopped breathing, and they had to stimulate him to get him to breath. The nurse said something about suctioning him. I don't know if that was from aspiration or what???? I didn't want to know...I was already scared.

Well ten minutes after surgery, I told Greg it was ok for him to head to work (he had to go, because he's still in training). Greg left...within the five minutes of leaving Ryder reacted to the medicine the anesheseologist (sp?) gave him to get rid of the secretions in his throat, lungs...( the stuff he choked on). Well Ryder's body started to turn all blotchy red, some people do that as a side effect....but then Ryder turned ALL red, with high blood pressure and a high fever. I was terrifed, and alone with just the nurses. A bunch of nurses that came to help didn't think before speaking, but they all said "oh wow! he's so red! I've never seen that happen!" Then Ryder's nurse kindly asked them to not say that, cuz I was already scared. The Doctor came and checked him out and said that it was just a reaction, and that it would go away in a few hours. The redness did last about 3 hours or so, and those hours were filled with Ryder screaming the whole time. In order to keep him kind of calm I had to stand and bounce this twenty eight pound kid....i stood all 3 hours! My mom showed up to help, but nope Ry wanted mommy.

Then for pain all he could get was tylenol. It was crazy....THEN!!! Ryder decided he no longer wanted to eat. Dr Mancuso said it was a neurological thing...after the choking he feared to swallow....even his spit. So that was scary as well. Then Finally yesterday afternoon he ate normal again.....ugh. Thank you Greg! Greg was so sweet with him, and for some reason for Dad Ryder would kinda eat, then he snapped back into his eating rountine....so now today we are home! yay!

He talking more, and eating faster....it's great! This kid scares us from time to time, but then it's all ok. What a kid, he's so wonderful! He's telling me stories now....and babbling about his Dad.... haha. To cute.

Thanks for Prayers, and your comments.

2009-03-01T17:16:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow's the big day! We are excited, and nervous for all at the same time. Ryder is so good at coming out of surgeries, but this one will be more painful. But it'll be ok.

So Mr. Ryder decided this week that he's a freakin' cool kid....and showed us he wants to start scooting. It's his own lil' kinda scoot, but it works for him!! He was so proud of himself, but Oh I was SO dang proud of him!!!! I almost cried. Then he got a cold, and we've kept him off the floor so it does'nt settle in his lungs. After he recovers from tomorrow I hope he catches back up real quick.

So we had to get rid of our truck, because Ryder's special needs carseat didn't fit....so now I am forced to give into a MINI-VAN!!! eeeek! me & minivan, I laugh at the thought! but for this kid I can do it!!! So if anyone knows of any good deals, let me know!

We'll update soon of Ry's surgery! : ) wish him luck!

2009-02-15T14:08:00.000-08:00

So this is Ryder's cool wheelchair that's being ordered....cool huh?!

2009-02-15T13:44:00.000-08:00

Here are some new pictures of Ryder....he's getting huge!!!!

He thinks he's so cool in his new special feeding chair.

2009-02-15T13:25:00.000-08:00

Life has been the same here for us....busy! Sorry it's been a long time since I blogged about Ryder.

He's been keeping busy with therapy...monday's are developmental specialist day w/ Lindsay, Tuesdays is his P. Therapy w/ Linda (he cries when she leaves cuz he loves her SO much! he's been with her forever!) Wed & Thursday are his Speech and Feeding therapy with Karen, and Friday is occupational therapy with Debbie.

He's been doing well with all of them. Each therapist comes in and looks like they are playing, but they are really working him....shh! dont tell Ryder! jk. Linda is aggressively working on getting him loose in his muscle tone, and trying to teach him to roll, and scoot. He hates it! It tires him quickly, but then when she goes to leave he's so sad! It's to cute.

Ryder Goes in for his surgeries on March second....so not to far away! eeeek! No actually we are excited for it. His Mouth needs the surgeries! and his ears are getting tubes! yay! hopefully no more ear infections! poor kid has one or 2 twice a month.

Dr Mancuso will be doing the surgeries. Ryder will be at Banner Desert. Probably just for that day, or two. He'll be miserable for that week, with a swollen mouth and achy ears. But he's a trooper.

So random story here!!!!! You know the Doctor that is responsible for all this stuff with Ryder???!!! the one that is at fault for his premature birth/ CP???? Well Over this past year I have met six people that went thru similar situations with this Doctor.....and now ANOTHER!!!!!!

Greg was at work and ran into an old roomate and his wife. When they heard about Ryder's situation, she asked, "who was your doctor?" When Greg said the Doctor's name.....the girl about jumped out of her seat....completely upset, to say the least.....because she went thru the EXACT same thing with the SAME doctor! !!!!!!! but her daughter didnt get CP....so my lawsuit I have SEVERAL patients of hers that are willing and ready to fight for Ryder. Crazy huh!!!!!??????
I just have one more thing of medical records to get, but the hospital wants $100.00 for them.....ugh! but that hundred dollars will be worth it, esp for Ryder's future.

Well thats us...Greg loves his new job at U of P. I'm well to...just the same as usual staying home with ryder so he doesnt get sick!

2009-01-16T15:51:00.000-08:00

Ryder's better. Yay! We took him in yesterday for his 1 year old shots...poor baby! he SCREAMED! which was a first for us. I guess the chicken pox shot burns. He's still sad today. I just keep giving him hugs.

The Dr. appointment went well. Ryder is in the 70% for length, 50% for weight, and head is at 85% I think. Eventhough he's caught up with weight...they are thinking about putting a feeding tube in his belly. Ryder has feeding problems. He won't swallow. He has always had problems choking on liquids, or solids due to his swallowing disorder. So his body has created this fear of eating food. We continue to try and teach him, but he will not swallow. We are going to a specialist next month that will see if Ryder needs a g-tube at this time. We will see! But we will keep trying! : )

We got a call from Ryder's ENT dr. They will do surgery on his mouth in the coming month.

Through all this Ryder stays happy and strong still! he's a special boy!

Greg is starting up with U of P this next week. We are so excited! This is a wonderful opportunity for him. He will get free college too! yay. They have great benifits for a family with a child w/ special needs. For that we are so blessed!

Heavenly Father has blessed us so much we are so grateful. We are so grateful to be trusted with a special spirit. Ryder makes us so happy!

2009-01-08T16:45:00.000-08:00

Ryder has Pneumonia, and a bad ear infection. Ugh. He's been sick for a few weeks, but the other night Ryder kept us up all night coughing. So I took him in....cuz with Ryder its, "when in doubt, check it out." Dr Guthries been seeing him lately. Dr Guthrie has 2 special needs children of his own, so he understands how it goes! He's wonderful.

So Ryder has no fever or signs of pneumonia, so he was doubtful..that is until he listened to his lungs. Sure enough, pneumonia! My huge fear! AGH! Since he asperates, he's High risk. I almost cried. I'm grateful for Ryder's special spirit. But anything that is as dangerous as Pneumonia, terrifies me! So now he's on med's and were trying to get him better.

Poor baby though. I really don't think he knows what it's like to not be sick. I hope he gets the strongest immune system from all of this! haha.

Greg and I are well. Greg is starting up working at University of Phoenix at the end of the month. We are very excited for this! yay.

I'm well, just stressed with Ryder's stuff. I just feel so bad for the lil' guy. Ryder and I have hung out at home all week....doing our own therapy, since he can't have any come over. That's the worst part, having no therapy for so long really sets him back with CP. But thats why I pay attention to what the therapist's do while here.

That's us this week.

2009-01-02T20:37:00.000-08:00

Ok I have no idea why symbols popped up?! Hopefully its not doing it now. I checked on a few computers, and it was ok. So cross my fingers I hope it's ok now!

2009-01-02T20:05:00.001-08:00

Grandma & Grandpa Wilstead & Grandkids.

All Of us.

Oh Ryder.

2009-01-02T19:56:00.001-08:00

Our Pictures we got Saturday...What an adorable Ryder-boy!

2009-01-01T19:54:00.000-08:00

HaPpY BiRtHdAy RyDeR! (on 12/30) YaY! YOu DiD It! YoU MaDe It to OnE! It WaS RoUgH sOmEdAys BuT YoU Did It! HoOrAy!!!! We ArE So PrOuD!

Pictures will be posted soon!!!!!! Having issues getting them downloaded! but here's memories of his First year of his wonderful life! what a cute kid!

2008-12-13T14:17:00.000-08:00

Ok I have not posted updates on Ryder in a bit, so sorry.

This week was a week everyone of Ryder's DR's and therapists have been waiting on! He had a Modified Barium swallow study....to all the non-medical people....The "mbs" is a test that tells whats going on with the swallow. They needed to see if Ryder was asperating.

So Thursday my mom, Ryder, and I headed down to PCH. Great place I must say! WE LOVE PHOENIX CHILDREN'S!! Anyways The test is really cool. They give him every consistency possible of this stuff that shows on an x-ray. The x-ray isnt still shots though. Its an x-ray that you can watch his swallow, and everything really. We watched him swallow....and at this "moment in time" as the Dr put it, Ryder didnt asperate, but each swallow was as close as you can possibly get without asperating. It went right to his airway...then last second went down the correct one. So they are positive he asperates time to time. So we have to thicken every liquid.
Also they diagnosed him with a swallowing disorder....typical with CP kiddos....his suck is SO weak....and When he drinks, the fluid goes up into his nose as well. Which explains why my child ALWAYS sounds stuffy. Poor guy. But agh, he doesn't care or know so we'll let him go on being happy for a bit, then when Dr. Mancuso schedules a surgery....then Ryder will know.
Dr Mancuso will fix his genetic issue with his upper gum, un tongue tie Ryder, Fix the passage to his nasal passage way, and maybe throw tubes in his ears.

The other recent news is Ryder had another DR appt with Dr. Sweetman. She confirmed again that Ryder has 2 forms of CP, one on top one below. Like before, to floppy & weak above, and to stiff on the legs. The medicine to loosen his legs a little, will only cause more trouble in his upper body, so they can only do one thing at this point. BOTOX! they are going to begin botox shots on his body every 3 months. What does Botox do besides making Joan River look like a freak? ? It actually helps out people like Ryder with Cerebral Palsy. It loosens his tight tone for about 3 months at a time. In that time it allows him to get to know his body and what it should do. So we wish him well with that!!

They later will go into his tendons in his ankles and cut them. Detach them. That helps CP kids as well.

She also told us again she won't give Ryder a prognosis for the long run. Because she believes these kids are tough and miracles can happen. But she will say if Ryder stays the way he is...tight below, floppy & weak above, he will be in a wheelchair for his life. But with agressive therapies, that can change. She also said Ryder is NOT mentally retarded. He is very smart, and alert! YAY!!!!

Right now the only thing in Ryders body that is "semi-normal" is his left hand....he uses that for EVERYTHING! we are trying to remind him he has a wonderful right side to!

We are grateful for Ryder. He is a miracle. And such an amazing little spirit we love so much!

2008-12-13T14:12:00.000-08:00

Just some pics of us and my bro w ryder...

2008-12-06T14:15:00.001-08:00

Sadly baby Miles passed away. He only lived 50 hours. Please keep Mark and Ashley in your prayers. Thanks.

2008-12-03T17:52:00.000-08:00

ok everyone, I know prayers are a beautiful thing....and really help out these little preemies. Another dear friend of mine gave birth to a 26 weeker. It breaks my heart to see these people I love go thru this difficult trial. I grew up with Ashley Dahl and her family. We also did hair together. Her husband Mark and her welcomed Miles into there family 2 lbs 8 oz. He's got a start to life like Ryder. So please pray for him as well as baby Abby! Thanks so much!

Here's her blog http://markandashleyhuston.blogspot.com

I hope its not blocked!

Thanks Kira & Ryder

2008-12-03T17:14:00.000-08:00

Sorry it's been awhile! We've been busy with Ryder. He was sick for like forever! But knock on wood he is well today. :)

We went to Idaho for Thanksgiving. And oh how we are thankful for that much needed trip! We love Idaho. Ryder got to play with his 3 cousins on the Page side. It was so much fun to see him interact w/ them.

Ryder did so well traveling! On the way home we practiced words w/ Ry and he said "gothoo" (got you!) he said "uhbuh" (bus) and boo for blue and gren for green. It was so cute! We were proud!
My favorite thing he said was to his auntie Sarah...she was playing w/ him and asked Ryder "isn't aunt sara a dork?" Ryder smiled and said "mmm yeah." It was hilarious. This kids a funny kid.

Ryder has started cranial sacral therapy (Sp?) He's responding great to that. He's still booked daily with therapies and Dr appts so we are always on the go! Today Ryder had a chiropractor adjustment. It was alot of poppin'! Dr Crismon was kind to adjust Ryder when Ryder went in w/ daddy get cracked. Ryder liked it! But don't we all!

Sad story here. We know Ryder's delayed and different from other kids his age, due to the Cerebral palsy, and we knew that someday soon people would begin to realize this more in him physically. We thought we were prepared for reactions, but on our way home from Idaho I had a pretty bad experience....
We stopped at Wendy's for some dinner in Kanab and this little 5 year old girl walked up to me and looked at Ryder and said "your baby is lazy." I was so shocked I didnt respond. I actually kind of got teary eyed. When Greg came back I told him what she said. He asked if I told the little girl why Ryder looks so weak and floppy. I told him how shocked and thrown off I was. Also I didn't want to embarass the girls mother, so I didn't say anything. But man, that was a rough moment. I realize I need to be prepared for these things from now on...And that kids can be mean!

On a happier note :) A few weeks ago I was watching tv and flipping thru channels and came onto this thing on ABC nightly news. They spotlighted this guy named DJ Gregory. This guy's story brought Greg and I to complete tears. It's a beautiful story google him... I think I googled abc DJ Gregory, and found the clip....

Anyways this guy is 30 years old. He was born 10 weeks early and had blood on the brain just like Ryder. The Doctors told his parents the same as our Drs told us, that he may never walk. Well Dj was determined to walk and did. Then he wanted to learn to golf, so he did. He taught himself a one handed swing. This past year he went to the PGA tour. Nobody EVER walks hole to hole. But he did. He walked and walked and walked. Fell and fell and fell. Then picked himself up determined to accomplish his goal. And in the end he did it. He believes if you believe in yourself, you can do it. His parents taught him that early on in life with his Cerebral palsy. I can't even say what an AMAZING and inspirational story this is. I encourage you all to google it and watch the clips. This story has given us hope with Ryder and we are going to teach him what DJ Gregorys parents taught him....you can do anything if you put your mind to it, and we'll be behind you every step of the way! we'll be there to pick you up when you fall. It's funny and sad but Dj actually tallied his falls....he made light of it.
I keep saying it but google dj gregory-abc news/ and get ready for an AMAZING story!

2008-11-13T18:55:00.000-08:00

oK DoEs RyDeR EvEr CatCh A BrEak!!!???

This kid i'd tell ya!!!! So this ear infection thing was getting him, HA! No he had to go a step way above the ear infection! And scare mommy and daddy to death!!!

This morning I pulled him outta his crib, he was kinda fussy...which is so odd for this guy in the mornings! usually he's happy and talkin' away! But not today, he was arching his back and fuss'n. I notice 2 red dots on his forehead.... I give him loves and simply think agh, just bug bites....poor kid. Well then not 10 minutes later his head is covered in the red dots! Some were ginormous, with wierd surfaces! I'm like great!??? What did this child catch this time!!!???? eeek! And at this point he's pretty mad. So I throw him into the carseat and took him to the Doctors office. By that time his right side is covered. His calf turned white, and was forming wierd pink blotches inside the white large circle. I'm thinking "Ryder! what the heck! you get everything, and dang you know how to scare the freakin crap outta me!"

The Dr takes him back, and was like "oh, wow, he's def reacting to something here." I'm like" yeah something like that!" Ryder had stopped crying and was entertained by the paper on the Dr bed, he thought it was pretty cool, and hilarious. Ryder was covered in hives, even down under ; ( ! (poor kid!)

These hives were outta control! Apparently, eventhough he's taken amoxcillon before, this time his body hates it!

Now he's doped up on benedryl, and off all other meds! Til the hives are gone. Doctor says they'll prob be there til early next week.

I think Ryder made the hives appear so he didn't have to get his synergis (RSV) shot today.
Well I didn't tell him yet, I rescheduled the shot for Monday! Man, this kiddo! gotta love him! And oh, we do!!!

2008-11-10T17:59:00.000-08:00

Ok, here's Kim's Blog so you can see her lil' bundle of joy! CoNgRaTs KiM & JoN!! She's a cutie!
http://rbfmerrill.blogspot.com

Keep lil Abby in your prayers still, she can use the faith and prayers.
We know, because we were there just 10 months ago!

2008-11-09T16:10:00.000-08:00

Another post....

Man oh man! so many babies don't wanna cook in the oven long enough!!

My cousin Kim Jones Merrill had baby Abby today....a 25/ 26 weeker at banner desert. weighing just shy of 2 lbs. So far she's doing great. Def a better start then Ryder! But any NICU nurse or Dr would tell you preemie girls are SO much stronger. She's only on 26% oxygen w/ nasal canula. That's incredible! Kim's water pretty much broke thursday...Abby just wanted out like Ryder. They wanted to beat all their buddies to earth first! haha. So keep lil' Abby and Kim and Jon in your prayers. We've been there in their situation and wow do you need the prayers....it's a tough road. Kim is getting a blog so when it's all together I'll give you that link. But I've seen pics and Abby's a beautiful lil' girl.