a lifetime of memories

Breaking Dawn Premiere Party!

2012-01-27T17:40:00.000-08:00

All of Jared's High School Friends married such adorable girls. Over the years We have all became good friends. It is so fun to hang out with them. In November we all went to the Breaking Dawn premiere. All admit I am not huge twilight lover. I like it have seen the movies and read the first book. But I am not a fanatic. It turned out to be lots of fun though. We first went to the "wedding". It was decorated so cute like a reception. We did trivia games, got fang tatoos and looked at all of the scenes. We then ate at Johnny Carino's. We did a little shopping, then hit the movie at midnight. I had worked night shift the night before and not slept that much during the day so I was tired But made through the movie. I loved the first at hated the end. It was fun night hanging with the girls!

SANTA PARTY

2012-01-16T18:30:00.000-08:00

Every year Jared's parents have a Santa party at there house. Santa comes we sing songs and the kids have so much fun. It is one of my favorite parties. I love it cause Santa knows them all by name and we get to see all the cousins different reactions to Santa. He usually brings the kids a gift. My kids love Santa. Tyson has no fear of the man! He just walked right up to his lap when his name was called. He of course loved his car and candy from Santa. Chloe couldn't wait for the "Santa Party"! She asked all week when it was. She made a list to give to Santa and was so excited about it. She got make-up and candy and love it. After Santa left Chloe and her cousins preformed their songs that they had learned in pre-school. It is so fun to see all of them grow up together(6 all the same age) . I am grateful my kids have so many cousins to play with that live so close.

Celebrating Birthday's!

2012-01-16T18:27:00.000-08:00

In the Madsen Family all of are Birthdays are mostly close together so in the past years we try to get together and celebrate them all. Especially because we live 1.5hr.s from each other. My dads b-day is Nov. 30, mine Dec.5 and Jake's Dec. 17. We met on Dec. 16 at the gateway and enjoyed Tucano's for dinner. Jake and I got to dance and shake the drum why they sang to us. My daughter loved chicken hearts and ate about ten. Totally grossed me out. Both of my kids are huge meat lovers. Jared missed the night because he was out of town with work. After dinner we rode Trax to temple square to see the lights. The were beautiful as usual and we enjoyed the night together.

They call my son the "model child for Fetal Surgery"

2012-01-13T08:56:00.000-08:00

Our San Francisco trip was amazing! Tyson was so full of excitement this time and I loved spending time with just my boys. Tyson would yell are names and point out different sites, and street acts. He loved the birds all over the city. It is hard to believe that it has already been 2 1/2 years since we were here pregnant with Tyson praying for miracle. I have really special memories of San Francisco. At times as I was walking the streets it seemed a bit surreal. Did I really live here and go through that?
The first night we stayed on the Wharf at the Holiday Inn and loved the location. It was the best place we have stayed in San Francisco. We ate at this delicious iris coffee shop called Biena Vista and Jared Still talks about the amazing roast he ate. We spent the first day touring the Wharf, Ghiradelli Square, shopping and visiting Pier 39. The weather was spectacular I haven't ever seen San Fran so nice.
The second day we checked into are MOMS study hotel Stanyan Park. It was a small Bed and Breakfast hotel right by Golden Gate Park. As I mentioned it was small the three of us shared a queen bed, which made for some sleepless night. Ty got sick the first night and threw up in the bed on us 3 times during the night. It was great fun! After we checked in we headed to my favorite Restaurant The CheeseCake Factory. The entire city was decorated darling for Christmas. After dinner we enjoyed walking around China Town. I must say Jared and I are pros getting around the city now after a total of 5 months being there with all of are visits. We are especially good with all of are luggage it stresses me out a bit getting on and of of the train AKA Muni, We definitely see some crazy people on the muni. One day the underground train was jam packed. I set down and for some reason Tys started singing a song he learned in his musikgarten class. He wasn't being loud and about 10 minutes later this grouchy lady yells " somebody make him shut up" I wish I was confrontational and may have said a few choice words to her. Come on lady he is a toddler stuck on a crammed bus. I kept my mouth shut and was able to get of the train the next stop, thank goodness. Rude people. I think San Francisco brings out the craziest.
Our third day was at the hospital for Tyson evaluation. A little about the evaluation for those who don't know what it is. They study ended in Feb. 2011. This is when we appeared in the newspapers and on the news. These were the preliminary results. They have to wait for all of the 186 kids to reach the age 2 1/2. The study gives a full expense paid vacation to San Francisco to test Tyson. The first day they test Tyson bladder by a urodynamic study and renal ultrasound. Both of these tests are used to check his bladder function and kidneys. The study has not seen much difference in this area from pre-natal surgery. I don't think it helped us. This seems to be where Tyson's biggest issues from Spina Bifida are. We cath (insert a tube into his bladder to drain it) him 4-5 times a day. It is fine and has just become a way of life for us. He also takes Ditropan and Senna for his bowel and bladder. At his last check up at 1 year old his bladder was small and the told us we would eventually need a bladder surgery called a bladder augmentation. Tyson hated the urodynamics test and didn't like the cords hooked up to him. We had to hold him down and it made him really sad. I felt bad for him. It was fun to see Anne Arnhym and her assistance. They are always so nice and positive. They love seeing how far Tyson has come. We did get positive results but still need to cath and can plan on that for life. His bladder held 79ml slightly more than his 1 year evaluation and his bladder appeared smooth around. He also had no reflux on his kidneys.
Since Tyson was born we have known that the results were very positive with him. He was worst case scenario and went to being the best case scenario. I felt overwhelmed with the words that were said to me. From the study nurse Rachel she said Tyson is the "model child for fetal surgery and she could only think of a one other child in the study that has done as well as Tyson. I felt my heart swell. Why were we so lucky! I immediately thanked my heavenly father for giving us such a sweet spirit and for his success. She also told us only 30% have benefited from the surgery. He was the perfect case scenario he benefited in all the areas. He walks great with out asisitive devices, no SHUNT, and appears to be progressing cognitively.
After we finished are evaluation Day 1 we took a bus to Olive Garden and then back to a full day at the the gorgeous Golden Gate Park. Most of are time was spent at Stowe Lake. It was very peaceful and gave me more time to ponder on "our miracle"
On the second day we had very "brain blasting day. It was grueling and my brain was fried before it was over. The first part was spend my asking us questions about Tyson, How many words does he have? Does he stack blocks? How many hours does he sleep? ETC... Then they have lady come from the MOMS study center in DC. She films Tyson walking and doing other various activities. Then the doctor evaluates Tyson. Because the study is completely blinded the doctors and evaluators are not allowed to know whether we were part of the pre-natal or post-natal leg. Because the scars look very different between the two surgery's they put a large bandage on his back scar and we are not allowed to mention any thing about are surgery. The doctor tests all of his reflexes to see how much function he has. She also stick toothpicks in his skin to determine what he can feel. So Tyson's lesion is L5 But he actually functions like a S4. The doctor evaluated him at S4 which is which is three level below what he really is. This was super exciting for us.
On to the worst part of the evaluation process. A psychologist evaluates Tyson's cognitive level. We go into a room. Tyson sets on a chair facing the psychologist. Jared and I are in back and we can't smile talk or say anything to him. So he does something good look at us for praise and we have to stay silent. It is super hard and Jared usually can't do it and gets warned by the crazy psychologist to keep quiet. Well the test usually only last a couple of hours. Ty was very uncooperative. He didn't want to do the stupid task 5 times like the psychologist wanted him to. I was bothered because I couldn't say anything but I knew he could do the things she wanted him to but wouldn't. We had been working on them before we flew out. They call the test "baby brain boot camp". To me it looks like the ACT. After about two hours he was done. He was crying wouldn't do anything and would even talk. I felt bad because he was looking so bad for the study who had done so much for us. I wanted him to look smart and he wasn't cooperating. I was frustrated with the crazy psychologist. Finally we all decided he needed food and a nap. We left the hospital went across the street to the food court and before we even hit the road he was asleep. Long story short he did he a little better after food and nap but was still upset and I kept telling him just answer the questions then we will leave. The test lasted about 5 hours. One cute moment after he was down putting a puzzle together or doing whatever task she wanted he would throw his hand in the air and shout "done". It was so hard not to laugh. I left feeling frustrated and Jared said who cares, " we know he can do the task and that's all that matters".
Last we walked to the fetal surgery center said are goodbyes to Rachel and the tears started streaming down my face. As I tried to babble out the words "Thank You", I could never Thank You enough for giving my son the best life, for your kindness, go above and beyond your job. The goodbyes never get easier and each time. I leave a small piece of my heart in San Francisco we look forward to are next trip in 4 years.

Speaking at The U of U

2012-01-02T11:04:00.000-08:00

I have had the opportunity to speak at the University of Utah around 5 times since Tyson was born. I have always felt that it is important to share his miracle for many reasons. One reason if I can help at least one mom have hope for her child then I have done my job. Most moms don't know there are options like fetal surgery out there. Fetal surgery or not there is hope for these children.
Second I felt so alone when I got Tyson's diagnosis and I would have done so much better if I had the support group I have now back then. I want to be able to share that what the doctors and books tell you are not always right. These Spina Bifida children are amazing, cute, funny, kind, and smart children and they not alone in this journey.
Third we witnessed a very huge miracle with Ty and each and every time I share my story. People give me comments like I got chills. I feel like for some reason I am supposed to share our story and the many lessons it taught us. I usually speak for about 45 minutes telling the whole story of my pregnancy to what Ty is like now and what challenges we have had. It is always emotional for me and every time I am preparing my speech it gives me a lot to ponder on.

Most moms when they are expecting a baby just get to go along enjoying every moment, every kick and movement from the baby brings much joy. Thoughts of the perfect baby run through their head. I was the same with my first. With my second I learned the book "what to expect when your expecting" was not written for me. I am pretty sure fetal surgery wasn't mentioned in their. It should have been called "hang on for dear life" or "when you least expect it". The point is I felt very alone and frustrated wondering why I was chosen to be on this journey. I have learned so much and really felt that I need to be there for other moms. I need to advocate for spina bifida. When your child does not meet milestones when they are supposed it can be exhausting, frustrating and disappointing. But when they do finally meet those goals and milestones nothing is quit as profound to see the tender miracle. My heart swells and I thank heavenly Father that I was chosen for this journey and thank him for my sweet son. We celebrate the tiny things that most take for granted
This Time I spoke to the graduating class of Genetic Counselors. They were very interested and had lots of question. They also had lots of questions for my fan club who is so supportive of me. They haven't missed a single speech I have given. I couldn't have done this journey with out them. It was neat this particular time because my family has heard my side of the story numerous times but I have never got to hear theirs. After I speak I open it up for questions and they had a lot. I don't think I realized how hard it impacted my husband and it was really special to see him open up to the group. I also loved hearing how hard it was for my mom as well. I love these opportunity's it has been fun for me to see how much Tyson has progressed each time I speak. The first time he was only 2 months old. The last time I spoke he was using a walker and now this time running and using NO walker.

2011-12-30T10:10:00.000-08:00

After Christmas my family met up at Boondocks for a family night. Chloe loved the kid zone and Tyson pretty much took every opportunity he had to run free. The kid loves his new freedom now that he is walking independently and has no fear. We played lazer tag, played roller ball, rode go-karts and mini bowled. Are favorite seemed to be the Go-karts and race track. It was outside and bitter cold in Utah but we bundled up and had a blast racing each other. It is fun to be able to spend time with family.

I am Thankful...

2011-11-21T01:11:00.001-08:00

I just got back from San Francisco . It was are our MOMS study evaluation. I had been filled with emotion thinking of are visit and the experiences I have had with Tyson.
How could I ever Thank these people enough? They saved my sons life. He was not supposed to be able to eat, drink, or even walk on his own. Not only did they give him a great life. They welcomed me to a unknown place with open arms.
Rachel and Tamara my nurses become like my family when I felt so alone. They gave me hope when I had none. They put a smile on my face when I had no reason to smile. They seemed to lift my spirits and give me the faith to keep pushing forward. They gave me a shoulder to cry on. Most importantly they were there when I needed someone most. They were angels to me when I was at the lowest point in my life. I hope they know how incredibly thankful I am for them.
I have thought the last month a lot about my doctors and heavenly father guiding me to the MOMS study. I wish I could see all the doctors who preformed are surgery again. Most likely I will never get the Chance. But if i did I would give them a huge and tell them "Thank You". This journey hasn't always been easy but it has been a beautiful one. Tonight I am grateful for the opportunity to be apart of the MOMS Study for a very supportive family and for miracles. Also for those angels in our lives that keep us going in are hardest times.

Stay tuned for more blogging updates:

Chloe Turned 5!

2011-11-17T01:38:00.000-08:00

Our little princess turned 5, well that is clear back in July. One day I will be updated with my blogging. Working night shifts works quit well for blogging. Chloe's party theme was Fabulous Five. She wanted every thing fancy. We ordered a cute cake and was walking out of the store with it. Tyson was getting mad So I leaned a bit with the box in my hand and off course the cake flipped and landed on the ground. The nicest workers at macey's fixed the cake for me. I was so sad. But is still looked okay.

She was so excited for her birthday.

Don't you adore her expressions.

The cake that got smashed when I dropped it in the store.

At 5 Chloe:

Loves Barbies

Love Movies

Wants to pick out her clothes to wear

Wants mom to do her hair curly

Love princess' She loves dressing like all the disney princess.

She adores her brother.

The Miracle Baby, Conquering the world one step at a time...

2011-11-16T22:04:00.000-08:00

These pictures are from the spring and I feel like he looks so much older now. He has changed into a little Boy and no longer has the baby look. I really hate it. Ty has been my little buddy and I just want him to be little forever. Last Friday we went to Spina Bifida Clinic for his check-ups. He was so friendly and would say "hi" to everyone who came to are room. Everyone was super impressed by his physical capabilities. He was super excited to be there. He thought it was hilarious to run out of the room, and down the hall. He would laugh as I would chase him. In SB clinic they leave the door open then 1 by 1 you see about 10-15 different doctors in the different specialities. The door stays open so the others can see when you have a doctor in your room. You can imagine trying to contain a new walker. The doctors loved it and "said we never have escapee's in the SB world, as he would run down the hall". It made me happy to hear these words as I sang, "Take that Spina Bifida" in my head. We couldn't have received better news from all of the specialities. Urology Update: we had a KUB/KUS, Tys kidneys looked great and the doctor told me I was doing a good job at cathing. It made me feel so good. We have started to have a few bowel issues where he gets really backed up. I haven't felt like I wanted to start anything too invasive yet so I have been trying to manage it with diet and it seems to be working. Neuro Update: The doctor felt like Tyson had no reason he would ever need a shunt. YEAH! He wanted to check for tethered cord by MRI/X-ray in 6 months. Ortho Update: The doctors were very excited to see Ty walk and felt like it would be good to try to have him walk bare foot. They also thought that he had great muscle tone and that we could get rid of the walker. No more assistive devices.

He is such a big helper holding all of his "cathing supplies".

Thriller

2011-11-16T15:03:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago Jared and I and the Petersen's went to Logon to see "Thriller" It was a fun night even though the boys didn't love the show and got kind of bored. Lisa and I did'nt love the scary girls wandering around.

Gardner Village Witches Night Out

2011-10-29T12:42:00.000-07:00

Every year I have got invited to go to Witches Night Out at Gardner Village and never been able to go. This year Lisa and I decided to take the girls and go. It was seriously so much fun. I had no idea and I will for sure be making it a tradition. I already have plans for my costume next year. Lisa and I got together the week before to make are hats and costumes. Although they took forever to make thye turned out soo cute. Chloe was so excited to dress-up. We ate at Zupas then headed to Witches Night. Chloe wanted a picture with all the witches she loved. I couldn't believe how crazy it was and how amazing peoples costumes were. Their were so many people there and the weather was spectacular. We walked around and seen all the witches and took pictures. Then we danced and sang to the DJ and acted like we were in Highs school again. Chloe off course loved this.BFF's

My favorite part of the night was watching Chloe be so happy on are mom date. I sometimes feel like she gets pushed to the back burner with all of Ty's cares. It is good to be able to spend time with just her. She and Alivia were playing at started standing on these straw bails. She usually is shy but she was busting out moves to the music. I bet she danced at least a hour and the larger the crowd she got the better she would do and out of the blue while dancing she shouts out" this is the best night ever". Ohh man I love having a daughter.

Hocus Pocus

The little Bro got MARRIED!!!

2011-10-29T12:37:00.000-07:00

Chloe and Jake on the dance floor. adorable.

Dancing

Chloe couldn't wait to give Sam a hug in her wedding dress.

Decorating the truck..... Paybacks a bugger....

I love my parenst soooo much and I swear I hope I look as Hot as my mom when I am her age.

August was a busy month for our family. My Little brother got married. It was a beautiful day! It was a lot more emotional for me then I thought it would be. They got married in The Logon Temple. Sam and Jake have a undeniable love for each other. She is definitley Jake's perfect girl. She will hunt, shoot a gun, jump on a horse and can still get all dolled up. He always told me he wanted to marry a blond and sure enough he got his blond beauty. Chloe was so excited for the wedding. She had the cutest flower dress and high heels. I was shocked she wore her heels all night. My mom said to her "Chloe I am shocked you wore your heels all night and her response was, "there just sooo cute". She had a blast and I hardly seen her all night she was visiting with everyone and playing with all her cousins. I think she felt like she was in a fairy tale. They had their reception at the Riter Mansion and it looked beautiful. My favorite part of the night was dancing. Chloe had blast dancing with her Uncle Jake and dad. I also loved dancing and watching Sam and Jake show off all their moves.

MESQUITE

2011-10-29T01:14:00.000-07:00

In September we headed to Mesquite for my brother's open house. It was a really fast trip but it was fun to be able to get all dressed up are wedding attire again.

Love this picture.......Ty's Big CHEESSSSE

Chloe loved these cupcakes........

CHOP New Fetal Surgery Video

2011-10-15T04:38:00.000-07:00

Worked all night so I am extra emotional but this video touched my heart. I feel so blessed to be part of such a profound thing and have witnessed my own miracle. Thanks you MOMS study I could never thank the staff at UCSF enough and heavenly father for guiding us there and alllowing us to have this experience, and countless reminder of his love. Happy Spina Bifida Awareness month!!! More to come on..........

I Heart Photography!!!!

2011-10-02T09:26:00.000-07:00

Ty's Cinco De Mayo Birthday!

2011-08-15T22:25:00.000-07:00

I am ever so behind on blogging and I miss it. Now we are backing up to May. Tyson turned two! I love parties and had planned to throw a big mexican fiesta party. Ty is my little Cinco De Mayo baby and when he was born all of the nurses and doctors thought it was cool that was his Birthday. At the time I had no idea what Cinco De mayo was. I do now. We had to celebrate a day early because we weren't sure if Jared was going to be off for his brithday. First we headed to the Hogle Zoo. We had fun although it seemed like half the zoo was under construction.

After the zoo we had a big fiesta with all of Ty's grandparents and a few friends. We had enchiladas, chips and salsa and margaritas. Ty loved the margaritas. Are cute friends brought sombreros and mustaches so we had fun with those.

Make a wish baby!!!

Ty got lots of fun presents we had pinata for the kids. Mom was a little scared she might get hit with the tennis racket when the kids were trying to hit it.

On the night of Ty's actually birthday Jared ended up being off work so we invited some neighbors over for a BBQ and cake and ice cream.

Ohh Man I love this kid! He has the most lovable fun personality.

YUMMY Margarita's!!!

The best Red Velvet cake. A few days before his second Birthday he started to taking a few steps. It was very exciting to see him gain more strength. That is a whole other post so we will save the tears for that one.

Party Favors for the guests.....-

The best cupcake recipe. YUMMY.

Ty had so much fun hitting the pinata.

I was a little nervous I was going to get hit by a kid.

The besties,

Tyson enjoying his margaritas....

For Mama: At Two Years old Tyson:

Loves To eat. You eat almost anything and eat way more then your sister.

You love your fleece blankie.

You crawl like a crazy man and could win any race crawling.

You adore your sister and want to always be in the same room as her.

You are super lovable and love to give hugs and kisses.

You love the outdoors and could spend all day oustide.

I LOVE cupcakes....

2011-08-15T21:51:00.000-07:00

Don't forget me and this silly blog, I am gettting it updated and backing up several months. I have lots to tell all of my friends if you still follow this blog. I am working night shift tonight so I can actually sit and blog. If I have a million grammar errors please excuse my tiredness @4:00 AM. My brain wants to sleep but is forced to stay awake.

First up: Playdates

Yes, sometimes when best friends get together we play so hard that the kids fall asleep.

You must visit this shop if you live near or around Ogden.

Loved this sign.

My girls

In the summer Chloe, I and my best friend Lisa and her kids ventured to Ogden for a play date. We went to the Treehouse Museum which I don't have pictures because I can't find my hard drive. Then we went to the cutest cupcake shop called Vintage Cupcakes. I was literally dying over all the cool vintage antiques. It was great day with great friends....

Chloe's Tangled Birthday Party!

2011-08-15T21:44:00.000-07:00

Chloe turned 5! I can't believe how big she has gotten. She got this Tangled hair and dress for her birthday and she wanted to have friends over to watch Tangled in the tent outside. We decided to throw together a quick party. Chloe was so excited. All the girls dressed up and they watched the movie for 10 minutes and then decided it was more fun to play.

Tyson enjoyed popcorn with the girls....

(someone tell me how to rotate pictures ugh....)

Chloe and Alivia

Party Girls.....

Party Favors.... Are these not the cutest slap bracelets....

Isn't she so cute.... Such a princess

Park City Getaway with The Best Friends....

2011-08-06T21:41:00.000-07:00

A few weekends ago Lisa and I had a much needed spa day! We spent a day at the spa in Park City. We had a massage, facial, manicure, pedicure and a paraffin wax. It was so RELAXING! Lisa and I met 8 years ago and I never dreamed of finding a best friend like her. We are like sisters. I seriously can laugh so hard till i want to puk when i am with Brent and Lisa. Later Lisa and I hit the outlets and got are shop on. Then our husbands met us for dinner and a night in hotel in Park City. The four of us are pretty much horrible at making decisions so we drove around to try and find a fun place to eat for a hour. We made some fun jokes along then way. Finally I won and we ate at my favorite Baja Cantina. We stuffed are faces with food, margaritas, and dessert. Then when played cards in the hotel and watched a movie. The following morning we went swimming and had breakfast. It was great weekend together. What more could a girl ask for shopping, spa, and her favorite people.

The HOTEL

SPAN TIME!!!

Happy Father's Day to the best daddy's in my life

2011-06-18T18:26:00.000-07:00

I love my dad he would do anything for me. This picture is us in San Francisco after surgery on Baby Ty. He had flown out to spend two weeks taking care of me. I would have rough days and he would take me out shopping. One day we went to the San Francisco Centre mall. It is huge! I was having a rough day and he said, "we are going to cover every inch of this mall" and that we did. I felt like I was in a race car. He pushed me so fast in my wheel chair but we went to every store. That says a lot for a man who doesn't shop. He would do anything to make me happy and took such good care of me. He sacrificed a lot of time to be with me. I will be forever grateful for his love and sacrifice and will forever be my daddy's girl. He is the best dad a girl could ask for.

This is another great dad in my life. Jared is the best dad to our kids. He is so much fun and they adore him. He is so patient with them. I love and appreciate the sweet dad he is. Chloe absolutely adores her dad and I love seeing the relationship she has with him. Every time she hears the garage open she runs to the door and says I get the first hug
from dad. Hah Hah!

Tyson's Battle wound 2 years Later........

2011-06-06T20:55:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be fun to post what Ty's back looks like now. It looks quit different then most other I have seen. I think beacuse we had fetal surgery.

Lots to Blog about.....

2011-06-06T12:49:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago mom, Chloe and I headed on a quick trip to sunny St. George to meet up with my brother's fiance Sam. It was so great to spend the weekend with her. She is so much like my brother and I am super excited for him to get married. The happy engaged couple is headed off to work at the dude ranch for summer and had only a few short weeks to plan the wedding so we went to St. George to get are dresses for the wedding and get to know Sam better.
The is a picture above is of the incredible house we stayed in while visiting Sam. It's her parents house and its gorgeous

This is Chloe and mom and the dress shop. Sam was so kind to let us come wedding dress shopping with her and she looked absolutely stunning.

Sam beautiful backyard

Chloe loved this giant bear and the "bear room" at Sam house.
The first night we did lots of shopping at the outlets.

Sam's twin Amanda
Chloe loved there walkway, she called it the princess walk

I officially have a HOT soccer mom car

2011-05-22T20:16:00.000-07:00

This should be the last photo, read down.....

The story of my new car. Ever since I graduated and started my career as nurse. I have wanted a new car. I decided the kind of SUV I wanted after driving several. I wanted the third seat so I could drive around all my kids friends and have plenty of room.
So I purchased this nice silver one it had a all features I wanted for a good price. My very cool grandparents came with me so the car salesman didn't try to rob me. We drove to Murdock Hyundai in Lindon. On the way home I get a call from the dealership stating that they had the wrong Vin number on the car and that I needed to sign some different paper work. They told me they would mail it to me, I would sign it and mail it back. I said okay at that was that. Life got busy and I had to work some extra shifts then I decided to open the paper work and sign it. Well to my surprise they had lied to be about the year of the car and I thought I was buying a car that was a year newer. I basically go from thinking I am getting a good buy to feeling like I am getting ripped off. They failed to mention the car was a year older. The widow sticker even said that the car was 2008. I couldn't believe they thought I was stupid enough to just sign the papers and would never notice. Long story short, I was upset and decided that they didn't deserve my money. After having it for a week I told them to come and get their car. I would not recommend Murdock Hyundai of Lindon. They don't have loyalty or honesty attached to their name. It all worked out though, keep reading.

Anyways scroll down for the rest of the story.

Random picture of Chloe bug.

Anyways I had actually liked the Luxury version of the same car better, Jared and I had test drove one a few weeks before and we loved it. It was just a little more money then we were wanting to spend. The dealership dropped the price so we bought it and I am loving have a hot mama car along with all my other neighbors.

The Princess and her fur coat.....

2011-05-22T15:47:00.000-07:00

I had to snap a few pictures of Chloe in this coat. She looks co cute in it. She reminds me so much on my Great Grandma Alice.

For My Spina Bifida Peeps! Please read

2011-05-21T21:38:00.001-07:00

Tonight I was catching up on all of my Spina Bifida friends blogs. I feel so grateful to have this amazing network of women. Most of you I have never met but feel like I know. Their is something special that I feel for your families. We all share that special bond. We all joined the club that no one would probably "chose to join". Tonight I am grateful for that "club". This club has humbled me, changed my life for the better and made me a better person. I am struck by all the awesome moms who would do anything for their SB child and go above and beyond to give them the best life possible. I sit here bawling my eyes out thinking of meeting lots of you in June at The Spina Bifida Conference. This really has been a dream for me. It is crazy that two years ago when I found out Ty had SB I felt so alone. Now I have all of you cheering me and other SB families on.
Tonight I was reading one of the SB families blogs that I have personally met and went to my same church at one point(until are ward split) I was struck by thier need to find a house that was more accommodating to their son Tucker who is 12. Please check out there blog and read the last post. If you know anyone that could help let me know or leave them a message. Thanks.
P.S. Does anyone still read this blog.

My Baby turned 2!!!

2011-05-18T11:42:00.000-07:00

When I saw this picture I cried. It resembles so much to me the surgery Ty and I had. Two years ago at a complete low point in my life when I felt the my world was crumbling. I embarked on a journey to a new city in hope of a miracle. I had a "risky" experimental surgery on me and Tyson while he was still in the womb at 26 weeks gestation. I was scared to death. Before the doctors gave me Anesthesia I felt and overwhelming calmness. I knew heavenly father was with me. I knew he was guiding the surgeons. I knew it would work out. I knew I was making the right decision and I knew I would be watched over and protected. I Never imagined that the most awful time in my life would turn out to be the most beautiful, precious little spirit that no one can comprehend. I feel so grateful for this experience and to be Tyson's Mom and witness a true miracle.

He is still pretty little but I guess when you start at 4lb.s you don't get too much of head start. He is in 5 percentile for height and weight.

Tyson turned two on May 5, it seems crazy that two years ago I was in San Francisco on my journey with him. I think of everything I went through and I know in a minute I would do it all over again. He is proving everyone wrong with his ability to walk and high function. He is determined just on his own time frame. He is such a fun little boy! I just wish he would stay little forever.

Fun facts about Tyson at age 2:

Ty started taking about four steps on his own. I know scream and jump up and down. I feel like I have waited forever. Nothing more rewarding then seeing something that I was told would never happen. I have traveled to countless hours of therapy to help Ty walk. Thanks Ty for not giving up.

He loves the outdoors, he would walk a mile for me just to go outside.

He is a big tease and makes his sister squeal.

He is so lovable. He loves to cuddle on moms shoulder every day and it melts my heart.

He loves is blanket, he puts the fleece in his mouth to go to sleep.

He is the best natured kid especially after everything he has been through.

He loves balls and has quite the arm on him.

He LOVES food. He eats anything. He eats way more then his sister.

He says about 4 words when he wants to, mom, dad, Ty, outside.

BIRTHDAY PICTURES TO COME........

Viva Las Vegas

2011-05-16T08:40:00.000-07:00

Over Easter we went to Las Vegas . Jared had to work so he couldn't come and Jake's girlfriend couldn't miss school so it was just the parents and me and Jake. My awesome grandparents came for a few days. We all drove down in my new SUV which I love(post coming soon). The kids were so good in the car. We loved the whether it was great to get away from the Utah cold. We shopped and swam and the time went way to fast.

Jake and Mom on the strip.
Blurry picture but this is in the Bellagio...
P.F Changs on the strip, Tyson was so naughty grabbing everything during dinner both of the kids were exhausted and could car less about the strip.
The pools were gorgeous at my parents time share.
Chloe absolutely adores her "nana"

We could spend hours in the lazy river.
Ty loved coloring eggs as you can see. It was a big mess. He would just chuck the egg into the dye and grab it with his hands. His eggs were dyed as well as the egg. It was fun to see Tyson and Chloe's excitement this year.

Shopping with mom...... I heart H & M
Lazy River.

Ty and papa having a good conversation. He loved papa and would take steps to him. Yep steps. This is a also a new post coming...

Resort Easter egg hunt. Chloe scored! Thanks uncle Jake.

Happy Easter...Kids Loot!
Are big winnings..... Hah Hah! Dad Gave us $5.00 to play the penny machine. I won $14 then ended up losing it all.

Gambling with grandpa.
Ty loves food more then any kid. I swear.
The best buffet at the M. I loved the desserts

Love my little man!
Girls shopping Day!

Trying on papa's glasses...
She loved the water.

He hated the water until the end of the trip then he realized it wasn't so bad.
After today's whether I think I will move to Vegas..... Thanks mom and dad for a awesome trip...

Get Excited.... First of many post coming.

2011-05-15T19:41:00.000-07:00

First we had some new pictures done. Ashley Olsen Wright Photography took them. We traded services and I am always up for new pic.s I think they turned out great. Although Tyson is that stage where he is very uncooperative for pictures. Watch for new post coming......

To cute not to Post....

2011-03-28T10:48:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago my bestie, Lisa hosted a fun couples wii party. It was so much fun she had cute party favors lots of yummy food. The girls rocked the wii upstairs and the guys were down stairs. Jared was working no big suprise but I went anyways "dateless" I swear all Jared friends high school buddies married such adorable wifes. Earlier that day we had a photo shoot for the deseret news I shot a few pictures before of the kids. Ty was done with the media and refused to cooperate with the photographer. The pictures were not to great. But ohh well..... Do you blame him. As my grandma said he was looked at so much even before he was even born. So i guess he is tired of all the pictures. He is still progressing at his own speed. I wish a little faster. This week we start speech and a music class to help with his speech. He has taken a few steps, only when he dtermined....

Well you know Utah Spring is really "SPRINTER", some days its spring but mostly it's winter like today. March 28, it snowing. Come on sunshine this is what my son needs to motivate him to walk. I swear one day its 70 the next its 30 degrees. Anyways it was a major snow storm on March 7 and I was just going to go to work and Ty wanted to go outside. So we all headed out to play for a few minutes. Ty LOVED it. He would laugh and scrunch up his cute little nose.

Our TV Interview

2011-03-11T09:35:00.000-08:00

Study brings hope for babies with spina bifida - ksl.com

2011-03-06T21:53:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures I took of my babies.....

Little update on Ty: Tyson is still doing the same he is still such a chill kid. But man does he have a mind of his own just like his mom. He has started saying a few words ( mom, dad, good job). He only says them when he wants. He is practically running with his walker and stands holding on to something but hasn't taken those first steps. He has developed this fear of falling. He gets nervous every time I try to get him walking. I think he needs some warm weather to get him motivated to walk. He is so fun and quit the tease.

Chloe Update: Chloe is getting so grown-up. She is so much fun and comes up with some funny things. I honestly wonder where she comes up with the things she says. She is so sweet. Every night she prays she says bless that Tyson will walk and that he does not need eye patches anymore. She just came up with this on her own and she says it everynight. I seriously have to hold in the tears, It is amazing how much a four year old understands and cares for her brother. She is so supportive of the many hours of therapy and doctors appointments she gets dragged along too. She is such a diva and still loves dresses. She wants to wear one everyday. She loves movies especially with her dad. Her favorite toys are polly pockets and barbies and recently has become obsessed wth stuffed animals. The other day I was telling her that I was a nurse and what I did at my job and I said wouldn't that be cool if you were a nurse and she said, no i think i will just be a princess. PRICELESS. I love her!

Valentine's Day!

2011-03-06T21:20:00.000-08:00

I am trying get updated on my blog and share a bunch of pictures. This is my Valentine's Post. Jared and I went on a date the night after because I had to work Valentine's Night. We went to go seethe movie "just go with it". I seriously loved it. It is defiantly one I will buy. We had dinner with our best friends the Petersen's. It was a fun evening.

Jared surprised me with all of this.... What a good hubby! Love him!

We had a fun Valentine's Day! Ty could not wait to eat his cheese and breadstick's he got from mom and dad. The Boy seriously loves food! I had to shoot a few picture of the kids. It was cold so I didn't really get that great of pictures...

She loves him sooo much!

2 Year Fetal surgery date

2011-02-26T21:25:00.000-08:00

Getting ready to be discharged to hospital housing for 4 long months

After surgery, yes I am 26 weeks pregnant and just had my stomach cut open hip to hip.

Two years ago today was the beginning of a life change for me. Jared and I packed our bags traveled to a new city in hope of a "better life for Ty or just any sense hope to help heal our broken hearts". We chose to do a risky experimental surgery when he was still in my belly. He weighed only 1 pound, thousands of prayers were said in our behalf. I look back and feel a bit overwhelmed thinking of that day in our lives. I was so scared, but some how I felt a overwhelming sense of calmness. I knew that I was not alone. Heavenly Father was their and he preforms miracles. He was in that surgery room guiding the surgeons. He was with me and Ty. Everything would be okay. I feel so blessed. I can't explain how grateful I am for UCSF and amazing medical technology. I love my little Man! Here's to many more Fetal surgery anniversary dates!

JUST FOR FUN....

2011-02-22T20:39:00.000-08:00

I Love these babies......

So my cutest friend Whitney took some shots back in nov./dec. of the kids one day when we were having a play date. I just got a disk from her today and had to share a few. She seriously has the most amazing, yard, house and neighborhood. It is like a fairytale and I am amazed every time I go there. It is sooo beautiful!!!! Thanks Whit!

What a fun week!

2011-02-09T21:17:00.000-08:00

This week has been so exciting! It started with a few phone call's from UCSF telling me that study had ended and that official results would be released today (Wed.). Then asking me if I would be willing to do some interviews for the media. I was so excited! I feel like I should be a adovacte for Tyson and Spina Bifida and for all my Spina Bifda mom friends. So of course I said Yes! The last couple of days have been full of interviews and a fun photo shoot. Here is the link to my interview with the NY Times. Click here. The study ended and they have seen some positive results in motor function, cognition with pre-natal surgery. Also children with pre-natal surgery are less likely to need a shunt. I feel so incredible blessed to have been part of this phenomrnal research! I will be forever greatful for UCSF and there incredible staff. It is great to see hope for spina bifida. Here is the prelimnary results. In the New England Journal of Medicine click here

BIG TYSON UPDATE! (For my Spina Bifida Peeps!)

2011-01-25T21:26:00.000-08:00

2 Years ago today I received Ty's diagnosis, Myelomeningocele Spina Bifda, Charii I Brain Malformation and Hydrocephalus. It was by far the worst day of my life. I remember the day very clearly and the weeks to follow. I felt very alone scared, mad, angry, bitter and questioned so many things in my life. I cried until I had no tears left. For some reason heavenly father knew Tyson is just what are family needed and we could handle it. I feel so very blessed to be Ty's mom. He has the cutest personality and taught me so much about life. We learn from our trials. I would have never imagined by life would change so much in such a positive way from such a awful thing.I look at him everyday and am so amazed about the miracle he is and what we experienced together. I am so so grateful for the MOMS study. It was a incredible growing experience for me and I feel so blessed to be a part of it.

Tyson is doing so well. Although today I had a slight melt down to the physical therapist. His balance sucks and it freaks me out a bit that it would stop him for walking on his own. I just want the therapist to reassure me that he will walk. She won't and does not seem to positive about the situation. He has been working so hard and he usually has a smile on his face. We have been going to therapy twice a week and then working with him at home. His trunk and legs are getting stronger. He is cruising in his walker. It is so great to see him use his legs. We are working so hard to get him to walk on his own. The day he takes his first step on his ownI know my heart will melt. I cry just thinking about it. I have waited two + years to see this moment.

Lately I have looked around and realized how different Tyson is. At church some "Punk" kid kept knocking Ty over every time he stands up( His teachers told me). Ty is the only one in nursery who does not walk. I just want to go up to toddler and knock him over and say to him do you realize how hard we have worked to get him to stand. Although I don't it seems like all the kids his age are progressing so much and we have been at a stand still. I know he will walk we just need a little bit more strength and a boost of confidence. Although I have definatly been feeling a little less optimistic.

We went to Spina Bifida Clinic last Friday. Sometimes it feels like a waste of 5 hours and hundreds on dollars but we got a bit of information mostly everything we already knew. We are continuing to cath Ty every 4 hours. It is really no big deal now besides the fact that some days I just feel like I want a day off from it. He still takes Ditropan to relax his bladder. I am thinking that is probably how it will be for the rest of his life. The doctors think it is pretty likely we will be cathing for life. I still have hope though. But if we do have to do it for life. It's no big deal. We treat like it's not a big deal and it won't have to be a big deal for him. Who has to know anyways?

Neurosurgery is completely thrilled with Ty's progress and "NO Shunt" YEAHHH!!! What a blessing! They say very slim chance he will ever need one. Orthopedics was very impressed by his progress with the little AFO's. I really love the Ortho doc. such a stud and so personable. I think he was secretly in love with Chloe. Anyways he was very optimistic Ty will walk on his own. Nutritionist lady is crazy and treats us as if were new parents. Whatever! The main issues we have is his speech. He does not talk which freaks me out seems how Chloe at this point was speaking sentences. Now we get to add speech therapy to are list of appointments. It good thing I love TY so much! He does not talk at all. Not a single word just gabbers. The main thing to watch for is signs of a tethered cord. Poor baby let's hop the tethered cord thing doesn't happen for years.

The next thing I need to update every one on is Ty's vision. Patching is miserable and I feel like worst mom ever seems how he screams for an hour and we have to hold his hands down. We are trying to better at it. Dr. Hoffman acts like we might have to remove the catarct because it is quite large and over the center of his eye. Then we get the dreaded glasses back. We got a new med. cycomydril, which dilates his eye all day. This is to help him see around the cataract. Now he gets to learn to walk with one dilated eye and two different size pupils. FUN huh! We see Dr. Hoffman tomorrow so I am sure will have more eye news soon. For now THERAPY THERAPY THERAPY till this little man walks. Yesterday he absolutely hated it and was miserable. He worked so hard.

Life is Crazy Busy but Good!

Stay tumed for more post to follow:

Christmas!

Chloe Update!

New Years!

Project ELI.avi

2011-01-09T22:34:00.000-08:00

Watch this video for my son. "He is no different then you my friend" I feel so blessed to have Tyson in my life. He is no different then anyone else. I would have loved to have viewed this video when I was pregnant. These babies deserve a shot at life. When I was at SB clinic this Friday. Dr. walker told us that in Utah 15-20 babies are born each year with Myelomeningocle Spina Bifida. Utah has the highest rate. He said mostly because not many abort. It makes me sad to think so many babies don't get a chance at life just because they have Spina Bifida. They are no different the you my friend. I have learned so much and want an feel learned so sooo blessed to have Tyson. Watch this for our Family!!!!

Fun Photo Shoot

2011-01-09T21:23:00.000-08:00

I have had my Dad's Camera, for a few weeks and so I took Chloe out back to get a few shots. She is such a poser. I love her so much. At four years old she is getting so smart. She is such a great sister to Tyson. Sometime I feel like she gets less attention because Tyson is so much work. But she always is happy and keeps are family happy. She loves stuffed animals right now. She loves purses and to pack random what I call "junk" in them. She love movies and want to watch one every night. She loves to sing. She can sing so well and loves to belt out a tune. She also loves to have friends play. She is growing up so fast. She is so beautiful. She is my little "fashionista" and already has a opinion what is cute! I am so grateful she is my daughter.

A BIG Update!!!!

2010-12-14T12:27:00.000-08:00

We have been crazy busy..... This post goes for most current to oldest so first. We had a awesome ward party. It was "ugly sweater" and the best "who ville hairstyles".

Here is our family..... Sporting our ugly sweaters and vests...

My cute neighbors Melissa Cox and Hillary Cronk

Tyson and his crazy hair and super ugly vest

Poor kid she loves him soooo much!

Cindy Lou Who, She was so excited about her hair

I got this in the mail and boy could i not be happier. I also started a new job at Paramount as a RN. I love it so far....It has been weird being a working mom though.

I turned 26!! I am closer to 30 than 20. Dang IT!!!!

For my Birthday we went to dinner at the Cheesecake factory, with my family, we took the kids to see santa, did some shopping then went to see the lights at temple square.

A little unsure about MR. Claus

Birthday Dinner!!!!
I am not a huge cake lover but I do love donuts. so my hubby brought me home this. I was in heaven....

I also had a big month of speaking arrangement. This is me and Ty after my speech at the U of U.
We had a huge snow storm so Jared, Chloe, Amber (Chloe's friend) and I built a snowman.

The kids loved decorating our tree. It was fun to see them get so excited.

This little guy loves standing up here. I found him the other day like this. Now if he would just walk. I could take a big sigh of relief.
Here we are at my speech to the Bear River High Child development class.

Last my little guy in his redefining spina bifida shirt.

Happy Holidays!

I am Grateful........

2010-11-21T10:13:00.000-08:00

I am so humbled today for so many things in my life.

I am grateful for the opportunity to be a mom. It has brought me so much joy.

I am so grateful for Chloe. She says the cutest things that make me smile everyday. She is the sweetest girl. She is her little brother biggest fan. She is always cheering him on which means so much to me.

I am grateful for Ty he has brought me so much joy as well. He has taught me so many life lessons. I am so grateful to have his special spirit around. I know he is gift from god.

I am grateful for modern medicine and the MOMS study. I am not sure I would have Tyson if it was not for modern medicine.

I am grateful for my spina Bifida moms. I am inspired by you. You help me get through the ups and downs and make me want to be better. Although I have not met many of you. I feel like I know you because we share a special bond.

I am grateful for the gospel. I love it so much. It gives me a sense of purpose and has brought me so much joy. Heavenly father is always there and never gives up on me. I am grateful for him.

I am grateful for the most amazing parents ever. They taught me so much and gave me such a good life and will always and forever be my biggest fans.

I am grateful for the greatest grandparents. They support me in everything that I do. I love them so very very much.

I am grateful for health insurance. I am not sure how we would survive without it.

I am grateful for my husband. He is the greatest dad! He supports are family and is always positive.

A few fun things....... I am grateful for animal prints, hair bow, new clothes, the book of Mormon, nice doctors, good therapists,ruffles, people who listen, second chances, music, awesome neighbors, pictures, lace, money, great friends, digital scrap booking, turkey steaks, prayer, and warm home.

Tyson Slide Show

2010-11-16T18:24:00.000-08:00

I made this to show at my speech tomorrow. ENJOY!

HAPPY 18 MONTHS BABY!!!

2010-11-05T21:25:00.000-07:00

I can't hardly believe my baby is turning into a little man! So SAD! He is 18 months today! It's crazy how time flies. He has the cutest, funniest personality. Stayed tuned from his new walker he got at therapy.

A few Family Photo's

2010-11-04T14:33:00.000-07:00

Here are a few of our recent family photo's I am not sure what was wrong with my kids but they were both not very "smiley" and not their usual selfs. I thought they turned out good though. I love the location. Check out my friend Jaci. She is great. She does awesome work. The picture on my disc are too large to post so this are the only ones I can post. Enjoy!

GO GIANTS!!!!

2010-10-31T20:25:00.001-07:00

Us at the SF Giants game In June. We are excited that they are in The World Series and super excited that we got to go to a game this year. Some times I really miss San Fran. I wish I had the opportunity to explore more when I lived there.

We had awesome tickets we bought from scalpers...

FALL is HERE

2010-10-26T19:12:00.000-07:00

Last week we enjoyed dutch oven up the canyon with our neighbors. We had lots of fun. The leaves were gorgeous.

Learn more about spina bifida

2010-10-22T11:15:00.000-07:00

Check out these two videos
Click HERE Then click on the Sophies Voice Documentary Film.
Then watch this clip on Enteratinment Tonight on the new XIO technique. Click here . How cool would it be to not have to cath every 3 hours.......This makes me excited for what the future hold for spina bifida.
Spina Bifida has lit a fire within me. I think it makes me a better person everyday and want to be an advoacte for parents and childrens out there who deal with birth defects.

Spina Bifida World Wide Day of Prayer!!!

2010-10-19T14:56:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is national day of prayer for spina bifida. A mother whose child was recently diagnosed is debating about the possibility of aborting her baby because of his diagnosis. Now as a mom of spina bifida I know this is no reason to abort. My child is handsome, smart, silly, intelligent. He has an amazing spirit and brought much love into our lives. A fellow SB mom has set up this prayer day. To get more details of when to pray and things you can pray about click on this link. This pray day is for all faiths. Join there is strength in numbers.

A VERY HAPPY DAY!

2010-10-13T21:28:00.000-07:00

Ty received a this walker from Therapy yesterday! Tonight I thought we would go outside and practice. He took off all by himself. He just kept going and going clear to the end of the side walk. He had the biggest smile on his face and was so proud of himself. Tears streamed down my face. I have thought about this day form the time we received Ty's diagnosis 2 years ago. I have often wondered if he would walk. Just a day before he was barley moving with the Walker. We have witnessed a miracle. I am so thankful I was guided to the MOMS study and Ty was chosen to be my son and I was chosen to be his mom. He has taught me so many lessons and truly taught me what this life is all about.

XOXOXOX Look at this super star!!!

NEW HAIR-DO!

2010-10-10T20:17:00.000-07:00

This weekend I chopped all my long locks off. I actually like the new do. I was tired of the old do. Chloe wants to cut her hair off now to be like me. She cried when she seen me. Hah Hah! I am one of the lucky girls whose hair grows super fast so it doesnt scare me to try something new. I also like to donate my hair to lock of love to help out children that need wigs.

What cheeser!

side view

before.

me and my cute friend Celee.

2010-10-06T21:46:00.000-07:00

You have to read this. I am so amazed by Spina Bifida Families. This one is truly miraculous. I believe in miracles. I have witnessed my own. You have to read this one. It is worth your time. http://mcginleybabyjourneystory.blogspot.com/.

Girl Nights!!!!

2010-10-06T17:50:00.000-07:00

Two weekends ago I got to go out twice with the girls. It was so nice to have time away just for myself. My sister-in-laws and mother in laws all went to the relief society women's conference and had dinner at applebee's before.

The night before I enjoyed shopping with cute neighbors. We ate dinner Zetas and went to see "Switch". It was super fun!

Are they not way cute preggers? Yes I felt a slight bit jealous as they talked about their baby bumps.

Look at us "brunette bombshells"

Spread the Awareness.....

2010-10-02T20:16:00.001-07:00

October is Spina Bifida Awareness month. Spina Bifida was once a term that I was clueless about. But today it is a common term used in our family vocabulary along with cathing, neurogenic bladder, hydrocephalus. Even my 4 year old I heard explaining it do her cousin (YES I CRIED). I want to be able to spread the word because when I found about Tyson's diagnosis I felt completely alone. Then I slowly met families and now I have a huge network of AMAZING families who lessen the pain and make this journey easier.

More than 166,000 people in the US live with Spina Bifida.

What can you do? You can reduce your chance by up to 70% by taking folic acid 3 months prior to pregnancy. In fact I think that any child bearing women should take it everyday just in case. It can't hurt. (side-note) Most people I know who have had babies with spina bifida did take folic acid. Take it before becoming pregnant because this defect occurs in the first 21 days of pregnancy. Also try to avoid hot bath's your first few months before anticipating pregnancy. Raising your body temperature can also cause this. The truth is I have been apart of several research studies and know one really know what causes Spina Bifida. There are a few "ideas" here and there. I mean seriously last summer I had a phone call and they wanted to know what cereal I ate my first month of pregnancy and how many times I ate meat. WHAT THE HECK? I think we are just lucky to care for such a special child and to have met a amazing network of people and witness miracles. If you have not read Tyson's Story. check it out! Forgive for the grammar errors. I swear editing it is on my to-do list.
This is the patch when he was born.

THE SCAR...... We both have battle wombs, Because we did it together.

Where miracles happen.

Cute love bug.

I love this picture but so glad we don't have these awful glasses. They are adorable but PURE TORTURE.

The Latest Happenings......

2010-09-22T10:37:00.000-07:00

Chloe started her 2nd year of pre-school. She is loving it so much more this year and I am really amazed at what she is learning. Mom also loves it it! It gives me 4 hr.s a week of quietness and time with my little buddy. Chloe also started soccer. Which is quite comical. She is learning and improving but still in her own world. Tyson got is first AFO's we just started with a shoe insert. They have helped immensely. He stand up right and wants to take steps while holding on to the couch or our hands. I wouldn't say he is close to walking but it will come. I really think it is just is very "chill" personality. The biggest issue with AFO's is shoes. He went from a size 2 to now a size 5 with braces. They are pain to get on. Were are doing therapy once a week. Shay come's to our house and works with TY. She has come since he was 1 month old. What a blessing to have her come to our home. He is finally getting used to her and will crack a lil smile at her. Then we go to Tooele to a PT office but I am going to switch to facility in Salt Lake that is more dedicated towards children because I do not feel he is getting what he needs out of the one in Tooele. It often seem like they have to think of what to work with him on and have no toys or children's devices. I have to bring all my own stuff. I think the Primary Children's Facility will be better. He gets so tired I think it really wears him out. Also I have been super busy making bows for my new bow business me and friend our starting. I have made Chloe bows since she was little and have sold them here and there. But this time I want to go all out. My reason? To raise enough money for me to attend the national Spina Bifida conference in Anaheim next year in June. It really is a dream for me to attend this. I hope to raise $1,000. Stay tuned for info. Chloe's 1 day of school

The items she got at school

Stansbury Lake, love where we live

church time

1st Soccer Game

Therapy with Shay

So Tired taking a rest from therapy.

Ty's love this toy the therapist brings...

My favorite tree bloomed...

1st Braces on his ankles

After we got his new braces....

Ty's Blog updated. CHECK!!

2010-09-06T17:03:00.000-07:00

Click on Ty's picture to read Ty's blog. I finally updated. I want to change my blog so I just have one and have Ty's story on it. Joanna how did you make your blog so it show's Jet's story. If you get a second send me an e-mail. THX,

For Sale!

2010-09-02T13:34:00.000-07:00

I am selling my baby girl clothes most our 18-24months. As well as some 2T. I wanted to give my friends first dibs because they are all brand name clothes in realy nice shape. Most are baby gap and oldnavy. There are over 60 clothing items and I am asking $95.00. All items are less than $2.00. E-mail if you are interested.

I'm from the country and I like it that way.....

2010-09-01T21:15:00.001-07:00

I spent all last weekend at my mom and dad's for the BE county fair. I love it! Jared totally makes fun of why I would want to spend so much time at the fair. But I love watching kids go on the same rides i went on when I was growing up. Nothing is better than a fair hamburger and last it is like a big reunion. I see all my old high school friends, my parents friends and old neighbors. It rained a lot this year but we still had fun. On Friday I got to meet up with a bunch of my High school friends and their kids. Sadly I didn't even get a picture but we had a great time. It is fun to see all my friends as mommies. Just Chloe headed to church.

I opened the door to get Ty out and his sister and fed him well. He was going to town on a peach. He was a sticky mess but ohh so adorable.

She also fed him chocolate covered pretzels, can you tell?

The cowboys resting after the rodeo...

Cowgirls in the lamb barn

Rodeo fun!!!

BFF from high school Kami.

mini sheep show, my cousin, belle and the beast.

It Wouldn't be the fair without the big yellow slide. I love it! We took Ty down twice. No smile or cry. Not sure what he thought.

So tired he fell asleep on sisters lap. She thought it was cute.

I though he looked like a big boy sitting in the back seat of the truck.

I love cowboy clothes.

Went to the rodeo with my friends for high school. My mom and dad watched the kids so Jared and I could have a date. It was fun!!

This crazy bull jumped the fence into the crowd and hurt and older man. It was crazy! Then the roped it and you couldn't see it breathing. We thought it was dead. It was a fun night!

Already tired....

At the the most boring parade ever (worst then Tooele's). We will forgo this part next year.

4 Year old Pictures

2010-08-28T13:56:00.000-07:00

My SON!!!!

2010-08-19T10:40:00.000-07:00

Tyson is so much fun but seriously into EVERYTHING!!! It is amazing the difference between boys and girls. He is so easy but always looking for something to get into. Tyson loves to pull all of the silverware out of the dish washer it makes me crazy. I had to run up stairs to grab something so I pushed the rack back because he usually can't get the silverware. As I start up the stairs I heard silverware clanking together and of the course I underestimated him. He had crawled into the dish washer. I had to laugh, it is quit the step to get in especially with Spina Bifida. I also included a picture of Tyson doing the stairs. It is so exciting to see him climb the stairs. It is amazing how the Little things mean so much now. I seriously beam to see him progress. He is such a miracle. We started more therapy this week. It was quit interesting. He really did not want to do what they wanted him to do. All the therapist loved him and he had quit the show of people watching him do therapy. He is pulling him self up and beginning to want to take little steps. We went to SB clinic few weeks back and the orthopedic doctor want to get him a brace for his left leg. It turns really funky and appears weaker. I think it is holding him back. So tomorrow we go for casting for our first AFO's. I am really so proud of Ty he lights up my life. He is really such a chill kid. He has such a special spirit. I have been at Primary's a lot the last few weeks. I am so grateful for how things are going. It is interesting it seems like I always get news that something is not right and then it ends up being fine. I feel really blessed. As for the hydrocephalus we seen on his brain in June. Things appear stable and Primary's does not seem as concerned as San Fran. I think he will be fine. The picture on the pillow was from a few weeks back he just laid there and rested. He thought he was pretty funny. The last picture is of a few mornings ago. I was making dinner and I found him in the pantry helping him self to oreo's he pulled off the shelf. I love my BOY!

I Heart River Rafting!!!!

2010-08-17T15:41:00.000-07:00

Lisa and I floating Kahuna in our life jackets....

My very favorite thing to do is float the Snake River. I started floating it when I was young and love it. I have a blast. Jared also loves it. This year we left the kids behind at grandma;s and camped. It was our first time camping in a tent in 6 years of marriage. It was fun. We had awesome food and a great time with family and friends.

Brent and Jared took a two man kayak. They both flipped on Kahuna

Happy Anniversary!

2010-08-11T13:30:00.000-07:00

Happy 6 Years Babe!

She's 4!!!!!

2010-08-01T21:32:00.000-07:00

I can't believe she is 4, I will post some more pictures from her parties tommorrow!!

4th of JULY, Mr. Tyson update!!!!!!

2010-07-17T15:40:00.000-07:00

The 4th of July is my second favorite holiday. The first of course being Christmas. I love the 4th, every year we spend it with our great friends the Petersen's. The holiday started out with a BBQ and fireworks on the 2nd. The kids loved them. The 3rd we did the usuall Tooele celebrations and Lunch with Thomas'. The 4th we went to church and did some fireworks. It was so fun. I love red, white and blue and getting my kids all patriotic.

I just noticed I never updated on Ty's Primary Children's Clinic appointment about a month ago we went to Primary's and they did not seem as concerned as San Francisco was about Ty's hydrocephalus. So in August I demanded that he have a CAT scan or MRI just to make sure that there is not more hydrocephalus and the ventricles are not getting larger. Just the waiting game. I really think he is fine. I don't think he will need a shunt. This past week he has started doing so much. He learned to do stairs and partially pull himself up. It almost makes me cry every time he does this. I can't wait for him to walk. It will take such a huge relief off my chest.

Ty's update out of order.

2010-06-24T21:04:00.000-07:00

Not sure what happened put Ty's update is 2 post down if you are interested.

Had to post these adorable kiddoes...

2010-06-23T19:36:00.000-07:00

WHO would ever look at my Ty and know he had a single thing wrong with him. I seriously love him to death.We just got back fro San Francisco and received some great news and not so great news that has really tested my faith and made me feel bitter. Stay tuned for his update.

Our Dancing Queen!

2010-06-23T11:13:00.000-07:00

couple of weeks ago Chloe had her dance recital. She was so cute and made me laugh. She is so in her own world. She loved her costume most and her trophy. She has to show it to everyone. It is fun to watch her get older.

The Good, the bad and the Ugly......

2010-06-20T20:55:00.000-07:00

We just got back from our Evaluation for Tyson in San Francisco. It was so "stinkin" fun! Our best friends the Petersen's flew out with us and as always we had a blast and laughed until we wanted to cry or puke from all the yummy food we ate. We did lots of shopping. I was in HEAVEN. I love San Fran's shopping. We drove lil mini go carts down the streets of San Fran and the "crookedest street, we went on a double decker tour bus, visited Alcatraz, went to the Aquarium and wax museum, and went to the Oakland A's and San Fran Giant's Baseball game. We played so hard we were exhausted by the end of the day's. Tyson was amazing as usual. It was hardly like we had him with us. He didn't even make a peep. Then came the evaluations read down for the update on Ty.

Sorry this post is so huge I took so many pictures.

union square

Fetal Treatment Center

I got to Meet up with Nicole who also had fetal surgery. It was great to meet another Spina Bifida mom. I am really excited for her. She is incredible and will be great mom.

GIANTS GAME

My California BABY!
Ocean Beach

I Love this girl..... My best friend in the whole world. Seriously not sure what I would do without her. Who would have thought when we met 7 years ago we would become best friends.

Riding the MUNI

After a million people wanted to touch Tyson in San Fran he needed a good scrub. What's with people touching other people kids.

Ty loved this trick, with daddy.

Alcatraz

China Town

Tyson Update:

The good, great and awesome. While we were in San Fran Ty got all of his testing done. The first day we had physical which they also checked his nerves the were very impressed by his motor ability and could not say enough on how happy they were to see the 4- point crawl. YEAH. They said he is likely going to be one of the people with Spina Bifida that you see walking down the street and have know idea they have it. The doctor said his motor function is almost normal. He is more like s2 or less and he actually is a L5. Hooray! The were very optimistic he will walk. Now at 13 months he just pulls to knees. He is pretty wobbly on his legs. Hopefully he just needs some more muscle strength. It was quit interesting. They cover is back with large bandage so the Physician will not make a biased judgement depending on which surgery we had. This because the scars look different. We are not allowed to talk about it while he is being evaluated. They also pok him with a sharp toothpick to determine what he can feel. He was not showing any feeling in the bowel area. Which surprised me because we haven't encounter any issued there yet. KNOCK ON WOOD. He was showing feeling in the bladder area although. Which is weird because those are the biggest issues now. He did so great on the developmental exam.All in all it was weird to be back in San Fran and even weirder to think that I lived there and ever thing i experienced there. Defiantly bitter sweet. I love UCSF. Incredible staff, truly caring.

The Bad. came the second day. I had kind of prepared myself for this part but still was a little disappointed. His kidney ultrasound look okay although one kidney was slightly enlarged and showed slight hydronephrosis. Then on to urodynamics. This shows how well the bladder is working. Well he is not emptying his bladder and the test showed he has high pressure in his bladder so in order to prevent kidney damage we are uping his dose of ditropan and cathing now every 4 hours. I was a little disappointed cathing is getting harder because he hates to be strapped down so likely he will be cathing for the rest of his life and when it comes time to do underwear hopefully we can keep him dry. I was okay with this and felt like if this is the one thing we had to deal with somehow I would manage. Next was the MRI. We left San Fran feeling really optimistic and I was feeling one of those days when I feel fortunate to have a child with Spina Bifida.

Then comes the ugly the nest day I get a shocking phone call for the fetal treatment center nurse Rachel stating that Ty's MRI report showed severe hydrocephalus in all three ventricles. I was shocked, all along every one has told us that they would be shocked if he ever needed a shunt. If you remember back this is the second on my list that I didn't want, the list of three things I wanted for Ty. I have been very bitter and mad why us? He is past 1 the stats go way down and babies with SB usually don't need a shunt after one. He shows none of the typical signs of hydrocephalus. All in all I am juts upset and wonder why now and why this kid can't have a break. I spent four months away from my family to prevent this. Even though other miraculous things came from the surgery. I need some answers of why? Have I not been tested enough?

One more update on a happy note. We have been through heck with Ty's glasses and after much debate I felt like i needed to see a new eye doctor after our doctor did some shady things. P.S. I would not ever go to Dr. Dries. So I finally got into Hoffman who I loved and Ty does not even need glasses can you believe this. We just have to patch two hours a night and likely eventually remove the cataract from his eye which then we may need glasses. But boy am I glad to get rid of those. He really hated them. It was pure HECK trying to keep them on.

Tommorrow is our big day and Primary's I am hoping for a miracle or some answers. I really don't want a brain surgery. I don't think I am strong enough for this.

SB mom's any suggestions. Have you had similar experiences.

The "famous" sea lions

If you ever go to San Fran you have to drive these. So FUN!!!

GATEWAY FUN

2010-06-08T10:36:00.000-07:00

A few weeks back. I met up with an old friend from high school. It was so fun to hang out with Celee and her daughter Rubee. It seemed like we began right where we left off. As you can tell Rubee and Chloe hit it off as well. Aren't they lil Diva's? We had a great lunch at Olive Garden, shopping, the Disovery center and off course the fountains. Thanks Celee for great day!

For the love of cheetoes.....(For Grandma)

2010-06-06T09:31:00.000-07:00

A few weeks back I found Tyson going to town on a bag of cheetoes, he had discovered in sack of groceries I had not emptied yet. I had to laugh because my Grandma loves cheetoes. She could eat them for every meal. Growing Up I always loved her secret cheetoe drawer. I guess Ty has the same love for CHEETOES !!!

1st Birthday, Mother's day and More........

2010-05-12T07:23:00.000-07:00

I can't hardly believe my baby Ty is ONE! He is doing so well! He started crawling about a week before he turned one. He is in to everything. I thought I would write a few things about Ty at ONE so I can transfer it to his baby book when I get started.
Ty loves food. He is not picky and will eat anything. I have not found anything he will not eat. He is gaggy like it mom. Although he gags with every meal he still eats his food.
He loves to fake "cough". It makes us laugh.
He is so chill. Very calm like his daddy.
He is in to "everything". He finds every thing he shouldn't have and way busier than Chloe was.
He adores his sister and wants to be where every she is and playing with what ever she wants.
He says "mum" and "dad"
He likes balls and beig outdoors.

We had a fun party for him. He got spoiled. Enjoy the pic.s

Just a couple of cute pictures of the kids yesterday! Chloe Tackled Ty after I had changed his diaper. He love it and he gave her lots of kisses. It was cute!

Riding new bike from nana and papa.

Mother's Day!

Kids of Mother's Day!

Ty's Birthday wreath!

Headed to pre-school.....

Pinata for the Cinco De Mayo Baby.

All the Birthday Boys "loot" SPOILED!!!

After the party......

Washing up from the cake mess....

He is just like his mom strong gag reflex. He started gagging and wiping cake in his eyes so we had to take it away pretty fast. Although he got a little taste mostly of the frosting...

Birthday King.

My attempt and a baseball cakes

Headed to dance

Chloe has been dancing the last year. She love's it! Although when I have watched her in class she just watches everyone else and is in her own world. I have to say, "Chloe watch your teacher". She has learned a lot though.

Nursing School Graduation

2010-05-06T13:02:00.000-07:00

Graduation was awesome! It was great feeling.... It was so awesome to achieve a goal that I have always had. 6 years of college, marriage and two babies later I did it. I had many obstacles along the way but with support of family I kept moving along. The last two years of nursing school I think I learned the most about myself and life, especially last year with the birth of Ty. I know I could have done it with out my amazing family. Jared watched the kids so much so I could study. I really appreciate his support. Many people have asked me what I am going to do with my "time", now that i don't have to study. Well first I still have boards. After that I am going to play hard all summer, catch-up on house work I neglected for 2 years and play with the kids.

My next goals are to:
1. Run a Race for spina bifida (I am have trouble finding one in Utah if anyone who knows of one let me know).
2. Organize a place like Disneyland that all my blogging buddies that have children with Spina Bifida could meet. This is like a dream for me to meet these amazing families. I know by communicating that these are amazing women to have such amazing, special children. There area quit a few baby boys Ty's age with SB. I would love for us all to meet within the next few years. I almost want to cry thinking about it. The more people that come the better.

NOW ON TO THE CELEBRATION PICTURES...

Jared took me here to celebrate.... The Anniversary Inn....

PICNIC A COUPLE OF DAYS AFTER GRADUTION. TY'S 1ST TIME SWINGING.

EATING AT TEXAS ROADHOUSE AFTER THE COMMENCEMENT EXCERCISES

MY PARTY DRINK

Two favorite kids..

YEAH MOM!!!

Amazing supportive parents....

President Monson spoke, A great talk my favorite line...no more teachers..., no more books,.....no more teachers dirty looks... he is so funny.

I also liked this ABC's

A-Attitude

B- Belief

C- Courage

Fan club!!!

Supportive grandparents

Supportive Grandma

Supportive Grandpa

Ohh! How I love this girl..... I would have not survived with out her. We always took are extra classes together. We went to art museums, concerts and many places together. We are officially culturally diverse. Right Donna?

Big, Better, Best, Make your big better and your better best.

CALIFORNIA BABY IS ONE

2010-05-04T22:06:00.001-07:00

I can't hardly believe my sweet Ty is one tomorrow. One year at this time I was laying in my hospital bed in UCSF San Fran trying to stay pregnant. I had no idea that at 9:00 the next morning I would be having a emergent c-section with my brother who had just returned from his mission. Ohh! Boy! I was scared nervous and wondered what the heck was happening to me. But some how i knew it would be all right.
Ty was so chill when he was born barley cried. It's hard to believe now he was once 4lb.s. He is a chubby. It is also hard to believe he has anything wrong. He has overcome so many things when the odd were clearly against him. Tonight I am most grateful that he has no shunt and that we have reached the one year point with no signs of a need for shunt. I am also so incredible grateful for fetal surgery. I credit everything I am and Tyson is to it and the power of miracles and the many prayers in our behalf for all faiths.
So to my Ty, Happy 1st Birthday. I love you so much!!! Also a shout out to our favorite nurse in San Fran "Rachel". It is also her birthday tomorrow and Ty could not share a B-day with a more incredible person/nurse. I am not sure I would have survived without her bubble self. She brighten my day. I can't wait to see her soooooo soon!
P.S. I will post pictures soon of Graduation and The big party for Ty.