We've already told half the world, but Shawn passed all his provincial and national exams!! No more school, no more tests! Just needs to finish his 4th-year hours, and he'll be an official red seal journeyman!
Thank goodness.
Showing posts with label news. Show all posts
Showing posts with label news. Show all posts
Monday, November 4, 2013
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
Boo Boo
Shawn sliced his arm quite deeply at work today. Felt like the usual type of scrape until he examined it... He could see muscle.
Shawn poses dramatically:
Apparently, he bantered quite a bit with the doctor and nurses in regards to his near-amputation... ;)
Shawn poses dramatically:
Apparently, he bantered quite a bit with the doctor and nurses in regards to his near-amputation... ;)
Friday, July 12, 2013
Toronto Flooding
Alberta was not the only province hit by record downpours and flooding. It spread as far as Winnipeg, Manitoba (where Shawn grew up), though not nearly as bad.
Recently, however, Canada's largest city, Toronto, Ontario, was hit with massive rain and dramatic flooding.
I'm sure the entire country has been reminded that no matter how big we get, we are still at the mercy of Mother Nature.
Recently, however, Canada's largest city, Toronto, Ontario, was hit with massive rain and dramatic flooding.
I'm sure the entire country has been reminded that no matter how big we get, we are still at the mercy of Mother Nature.
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
For Our Tomorrow
A beautiful video message posted on YouTube regarding the flooding... Damages have been estimated up to $5 billion and home insurance in Alberta does not include flooding...
Donations are being accepted at the Canadian Red Cross. As of Sunday, they had raised $2.6 million!
Donations are being accepted at the Canadian Red Cross. As of Sunday, they had raised $2.6 million!
Friday, June 21, 2013
Alberta Flooding
If you haven't been following the craziness that is Southern Alberta right now, we are experiencing massive flooding after some torrential downpours! Calgary, High River and Canmore have been hit the hardest with evacuations in Calgary totaling more than 100,000 homes!
Schools in all of Calgary have been shut down to decrease traffic. The entire downtown core has been shut down, including power and gas.
Here's a picture of the southeastern corner of downtown (right by the Stampede grounds):
Intersection downtown:
Downtown from the river:
Some footage and more photos:
Here's an aerial shot of High River (about 30 minutes south of Calgary):
A house floating down Bragg Creek (a small town just south and west of Calgary):
There are also warnings/flooding in Okotoks and area, Red Deer, Banff, Medicine Hat...
[Update: The reason for the flooding, as explained by The National's meteorologist, is that we received the amount of rain normally received over 30 days over 30 hours! The cause? A tornado that Denver, Colorado received a week or so ago (not to be confused with the devastating F5 that Oklahoma experienced a few weeks ago)! Amazing!]
You can follow more pictures and updates on Twitter: #abflood and #yycflood.
For more info on the evacuations and so forth, see this article.
For more info on how to help during the flood, including donating to the Canadian Red Cross, see this article.
Popular pictures of a daring escape by man and cat here!
Another unfortunate effect of the flooding, is that the highway we would normally be taking to get to Victoria next week, Highway #1, has been washed out in/near Canmore.
Some footage:
If necessary, our alternate route lies through Crowsnest Pass. We may head down through Spokane, Washington and take the Port Angeles ferry.
Schools in all of Calgary have been shut down to decrease traffic. The entire downtown core has been shut down, including power and gas.
Here's a picture of the southeastern corner of downtown (right by the Stampede grounds):
Intersection downtown:
Downtown from the river:
Some footage and more photos:
Here's an aerial shot of High River (about 30 minutes south of Calgary):
A house floating down Bragg Creek (a small town just south and west of Calgary):
There are also warnings/flooding in Okotoks and area, Red Deer, Banff, Medicine Hat...
[Update: The reason for the flooding, as explained by The National's meteorologist, is that we received the amount of rain normally received over 30 days over 30 hours! The cause? A tornado that Denver, Colorado received a week or so ago (not to be confused with the devastating F5 that Oklahoma experienced a few weeks ago)! Amazing!]
You can follow more pictures and updates on Twitter: #abflood and #yycflood.
For more info on the evacuations and so forth, see this article.
For more info on how to help during the flood, including donating to the Canadian Red Cross, see this article.
Popular pictures of a daring escape by man and cat here!
Another unfortunate effect of the flooding, is that the highway we would normally be taking to get to Victoria next week, Highway #1, has been washed out in/near Canmore.
Some footage:
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Letter to Grandma
Since my grandmother doesn't have a computer, I print my blog posts and send them to her once in awhile. It's been too long but I'm sending her what she's missed. I usually send along a letter and thought I'd include it here since it is a nice little update and I've been remiss in my posting.
Dear Grandma,
I was thinking that it’s been an awfully long time since I printed and sent my blog posts for your perusal! I should make it a New Year’s tradition…
I keep a document that indicates what dates I’ve already sent you and I can’t help thinking that I must have forgotten to record my last printout because the last date recorded was April 2011!! I’m pretty sure I’ve sent you more since then but just in case… Regardless, forgive any duplication!
A brief overview of our current status:
Finals at SAIT ended in April so I have been home for nearly a month! Catching up on some organization and certainly enjoying some free time! I like to make cards and research educational opportunities. I plan on getting a degree someday when the kids are older. If I get permanent employment at SAIT, then they will fund it! I enjoy instruction. It’s fast-paced and keeps me busy; no chance of getting bored!! I enjoy grading assessments and, as I get better, I hope to improve my methods!
I still work at the hospital part-time. Usually just Tuesday and Thursday evenings, as well as Saturdays.
Shawn is finishing up his 3rd year plumber apprentice hours. He has registered for his 4th and final term in September. After that, he takes his provincial and national exams. All that will be left to do after that is to complete his 4th year hours. He is so excited to have this all done!! His income will improve and we’ll start contributing towards retirement again! Shawn really wants to get a better mountain bike (his current hobby) as well as a motorcycle. I hope to get a motorcycle one day, as well.
Taylor is nearing the end of grade 2. He seems to be enjoying school, in general. Averi goes back and forth about liking Kindergarten. Interesting since Kindergarten is really the most fun of all the grades! Taylor has his two big front teeth as you will witness upon our visit. The teeth on either side of his front teeth are coming in quite slowly so he’s had the appearance of a rabbit for some time! Taylor really enjoys building things with intricate pieces/parts that click together (called Knex). He also rides his very own bike since last year. Averi is also riding her very own two-wheeler as of this year. Ella really enjoys riding along behind one of the parents (as you’ll see in one of the blog posts).
Averi is the sweetest child ever! She reminds me of Eva when she was young. Averi’s only flaw is a propensity to whine. She’s slightly less honest than Taylor, but he’s a hard act to follow! Averi loves to sing and dance and doesn’t usually have stage-fright (whereas Taylor cannot tolerate an audience!).
Ella has some behavioral issues. She’s been seen by a pediatrician but that wasn’t helpful in the least except for a referral to the Early Childhood Mental Health Outreach program. Ella has her own case worker but, again, I’m not sure how effective it’s been. We keep considering a private assessment by a family psychologist group to see if Ella wouldn’t qualify for funding for her issues. As it is, I have registered Ella for “preschool” in the Fall at a school for kids with special needs. Her case worker suggests that Ella goes to a school with children that don’t have issues so that she has models of appropriate behavior. I see the logic and have been trying to find a program elsewhere (with little success so far).
Ella still refuses to potty-train. I have tried all sorts of things, though Dad did suggest a star sticker approach that was apparently used on us as kids. The problem is that Ella is not motivated by ANYTHING! She will simply have to decide that it is time. Unfortunately, Ella is far too BUSY to entertain toilet use. I have, of course, attempted to put her on the toilet every half-hour (she simply goes in between half-hours…), have disallowed TV unless the toilet has been used first, used rewards, etc. etc. to no avail. The one bit of progress that she has made is that she has started hiding when she has to go #2. At least she is recognizing the signs of impending defecation! I always catch her too late.
Ella turns 4 in a week and a half. She always seems to lag developmentally by about 6 months to a year behind average children. I have convinced myself that she will make up for this early torture later on in life. I look forward to it!
Look forward to seeing you and Dad and other family in Victoria in a month! Would love to take the kids to see the fireworks on Canada Day.
Love, Dana
Monday, February 4, 2013
Canadian Penny
Wow, it's been awhile since I posted!
Just wanted to drop in and announce that today is that last day of the Canadian penny.
I wonder if the saying "2 cents worth" will also go out the door... Of course, "2 bits" is still around.
Just wanted to drop in and announce that today is that last day of the Canadian penny.
I wonder if the saying "2 cents worth" will also go out the door... Of course, "2 bits" is still around.
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Teacher Time
Today I was officially offered a teaching position at my old tech school, SAIT (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology)!
Rewind a few years, 2008 to be exact, and I have just interviewed for a full-time position co-teaching the program I graduated from, Health Information Management, with a friend that I graduated with. I felt very good about the interview and the more I thought about teaching as a career, the more ecstatic I became. I used to play school with my younger sibs, creating mini-texts and quizzes to grade. I taught Eva (maybe Owen?) to read (not that I find that kind of patience with my own children!). I've really enjoyed any training opportunities that came my way as both a coder and an analyst.
Unfortunately, it was not meant to be.
It was just as well since our family grew once more after that. ;)
Fast-forward to the beginning of this past summer and my friend at SAIT approached me about a part-time contract (temporary) position at SAIT. It wouldn't be teaching my program but helping out the Medical Transcription and Health Information Office Assistant programs. It would be a foot in the door!
At this same time, I had already applied for a part-time data quality position at the new Calgary hospital (opening end of this year/beginning of next year). Data quality is my passion (consistency appeals to my detail-oriented, problem-solving side) and these positions don't come up often. It made me consider getting out of my stay-at-home-mom mode since Averi is now going to school. Child care would be less expensive and I would be missing less time with the kids. (Ella and parents will all benefit with some time apart.)
I find it unfortunate that both of these opportunities presented themselves at the same time. It has been my experience that Heavenly Father brings about these types of situations for a reason. I went after the teaching position since it was temporary and would lead perfectly into the hospital position. SAIT, however, has offered me a year-long contract, rather than just one term. I look forward to finding out what becomes of this! Will I become a permanent instructor, coding coordinator or both (SAIT assures me that they can be flexible)??
Rewind a few years, 2008 to be exact, and I have just interviewed for a full-time position co-teaching the program I graduated from, Health Information Management, with a friend that I graduated with. I felt very good about the interview and the more I thought about teaching as a career, the more ecstatic I became. I used to play school with my younger sibs, creating mini-texts and quizzes to grade. I taught Eva (maybe Owen?) to read (not that I find that kind of patience with my own children!). I've really enjoyed any training opportunities that came my way as both a coder and an analyst.
Unfortunately, it was not meant to be.
It was just as well since our family grew once more after that. ;)
Fast-forward to the beginning of this past summer and my friend at SAIT approached me about a part-time contract (temporary) position at SAIT. It wouldn't be teaching my program but helping out the Medical Transcription and Health Information Office Assistant programs. It would be a foot in the door!
At this same time, I had already applied for a part-time data quality position at the new Calgary hospital (opening end of this year/beginning of next year). Data quality is my passion (consistency appeals to my detail-oriented, problem-solving side) and these positions don't come up often. It made me consider getting out of my stay-at-home-mom mode since Averi is now going to school. Child care would be less expensive and I would be missing less time with the kids. (Ella and parents will all benefit with some time apart.)
I find it unfortunate that both of these opportunities presented themselves at the same time. It has been my experience that Heavenly Father brings about these types of situations for a reason. I went after the teaching position since it was temporary and would lead perfectly into the hospital position. SAIT, however, has offered me a year-long contract, rather than just one term. I look forward to finding out what becomes of this! Will I become a permanent instructor, coding coordinator or both (SAIT assures me that they can be flexible)??
Monday, June 18, 2012
Ella's Surgery
Considering I had just written this post, imagine my surprise when Ella's surgeon's office called me with a surgery date of June 7th!
[I've been remiss in keeping this blog up to date. There are a few things that I've wanted to post. Mainly, I just can't wait to be able to remember ALL the GOOD things after death. ;) ]
I have a couple of pictures on my phone from after Ella's surgery but until I have a way to transfer them to the computer, that's where they'll remain.
Her surgery (tonsil- and adenoid-ectomy) went well; no post-op complications. I spent the night in the hospital with her but she didn't sleep much after the anesthetic effects wore off. We walked the halls of the unit for a lot of the night. :( She was allowed as many popsicles and jello as she wanted. She wasn't a fan of the jello. She ate lots of popsicles and apple juice after the surgery but then promptly threw it up. Following this, however, she ate and kept down 3 bowls of chicken noodle soup!
Daddy and the kids visited for a short time in the evening. They had to leave expeditiously due to the fact that Averi and Taylor were too boisterous and unintentionally waking kids trying to sleep. Why don't kids ever listen??
Ella had horrific breath for a week or so but that is normal. Averi, among others, constantly checked her diaper to see if she had messed herself! My favorite comment, however, came from Daddy who said that it smelled like something crawled into her mouth and died and then something else crawled into her mouth, ate the dead thing and then died. lol! Some of the more colorful versions were longer.
Ella was not a fan of taking Tylenol. She was supposed to take it every 4 hours for the first couple of days. The only way we could get her to take it was to force a FastMelt into the back of her mouth. They're difficult to spit out because they kind of stick to your tongue but we had to monitor closely. The liquid Tylenol was promptly spewed out on most occasions, despite using a syringe and only squirting it in in small amounts. Crushing a FastMelt and mixing it into applesauce or yogurt only worked if she'd eat the whole amount, which didn't seem often.
On the amazing side, her loud breathing and snoring have completely disappeared! The difference has been like night and day! She no longer has her apneic spells and we no longer fear that she won't wake up.
On the negative side, we can no longer hear her coming.
;)
[I've been remiss in keeping this blog up to date. There are a few things that I've wanted to post. Mainly, I just can't wait to be able to remember ALL the GOOD things after death. ;) ]
I have a couple of pictures on my phone from after Ella's surgery but until I have a way to transfer them to the computer, that's where they'll remain.
Her surgery (tonsil- and adenoid-ectomy) went well; no post-op complications. I spent the night in the hospital with her but she didn't sleep much after the anesthetic effects wore off. We walked the halls of the unit for a lot of the night. :( She was allowed as many popsicles and jello as she wanted. She wasn't a fan of the jello. She ate lots of popsicles and apple juice after the surgery but then promptly threw it up. Following this, however, she ate and kept down 3 bowls of chicken noodle soup!
Daddy and the kids visited for a short time in the evening. They had to leave expeditiously due to the fact that Averi and Taylor were too boisterous and unintentionally waking kids trying to sleep. Why don't kids ever listen??
Ella had horrific breath for a week or so but that is normal. Averi, among others, constantly checked her diaper to see if she had messed herself! My favorite comment, however, came from Daddy who said that it smelled like something crawled into her mouth and died and then something else crawled into her mouth, ate the dead thing and then died. lol! Some of the more colorful versions were longer.
Ella was not a fan of taking Tylenol. She was supposed to take it every 4 hours for the first couple of days. The only way we could get her to take it was to force a FastMelt into the back of her mouth. They're difficult to spit out because they kind of stick to your tongue but we had to monitor closely. The liquid Tylenol was promptly spewed out on most occasions, despite using a syringe and only squirting it in in small amounts. Crushing a FastMelt and mixing it into applesauce or yogurt only worked if she'd eat the whole amount, which didn't seem often.
On the amazing side, her loud breathing and snoring have completely disappeared! The difference has been like night and day! She no longer has her apneic spells and we no longer fear that she won't wake up.
On the negative side, we can no longer hear her coming.
;)
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Another Surgery on the Horizon
After a 5-month wait, Ella was finally re-evaluated by ENT (Ears Nose Throat = Otorhinolaryngologist) for her mouth breathing and obstructed sleep apnea (diagnosed by Dad at Christmas). It was decided very quickly that she required a tonsil- and adenoid-ectomy. Her tonsils had increased from 50% enlargement/obstruction to 75% in the last year. We're looking at August/September for a surgical booking (which is much better than Taylor's experience with General Surgery). An overnight stay is required and I will be allowed to spend the night with Ella in hospital. Apparently, postop bleeding probability is only 1-4% with Ella most likely at the 1%. (Postop bleeding warrants a hasty trip to Emergency.)
I'm thrilled to finally get this resolved! Whenever Ella had a cold (which seemed frequent! over the winter), her parents feared she'd stop breathing completely! Ella's weight has also been a concern--she's at the 15th percentile for her age.
Also of note, Ella has been referred to the Children's Hospital Vision Clinic (where Averi goes for her eyes). I noticed her right eye turning inward about a month or so ago. Since Averi was visiting her surgeon this past Monday, I mentioned Ella's condition and Dr. Cooper fast-tracked her in on Avi's next appointment (August). The current wait-period is one year so I was quite ecstatic with this arrangement. My guess is Ella will only need glasses or some patching as it has manifested much later than Averi's condition.
Averi gets a break from patching this summer as her right eye has strengthened for the time being. There is a possibility she will be patched again. After Kindergarten, the effectiveness of patching will most likely be gone.
I'm thrilled to finally get this resolved! Whenever Ella had a cold (which seemed frequent! over the winter), her parents feared she'd stop breathing completely! Ella's weight has also been a concern--she's at the 15th percentile for her age.
Also of note, Ella has been referred to the Children's Hospital Vision Clinic (where Averi goes for her eyes). I noticed her right eye turning inward about a month or so ago. Since Averi was visiting her surgeon this past Monday, I mentioned Ella's condition and Dr. Cooper fast-tracked her in on Avi's next appointment (August). The current wait-period is one year so I was quite ecstatic with this arrangement. My guess is Ella will only need glasses or some patching as it has manifested much later than Averi's condition.
Averi gets a break from patching this summer as her right eye has strengthened for the time being. There is a possibility she will be patched again. After Kindergarten, the effectiveness of patching will most likely be gone.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
School Playground
Can you believe that elementary schools don't "come" with playgrounds anymore?? Well, after fundraising for two or so years, Taylor (and Averi and Ella)'s school will be getting one soon:
Not spectacular but definitely better than nothing!
Now if I could just figure out WHERE on school premises it will go since the school is situated pretty much in a ditch...
Not spectacular but definitely better than nothing!
Now if I could just figure out WHERE on school premises it will go since the school is situated pretty much in a ditch...
Monday, January 16, 2012
My Four-Year-Old Has Bifocals!
I prefer my pics without flash but I may redo these since it is impossible for kids to be still enough for a photo!
These glasses will possibly help her eyes further straighten out.
These glasses will possibly help her eyes further straighten out.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Taylor's Turn in Surgery
Averi passed the surgical torch to Taylor on Friday.
He's having some minor surgery in a "sensitive" area (I deliberated how much detail to go into and decided to be vague).
The nurses were very impressed with how happy Taylor is!
Here's our little trooper after the procedure:
He had 5 popsicles!!
He's still very careful about bending over and going to the bathroom but the swelling is going down. The poor guy is constantly wary of people around him. ;)
He's having some minor surgery in a "sensitive" area (I deliberated how much detail to go into and decided to be vague).
The nurses were very impressed with how happy Taylor is!
Here's our little trooper after the procedure:
He had 5 popsicles!!
He's still very careful about bending over and going to the bathroom but the swelling is going down. The poor guy is constantly wary of people around him. ;)
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
A New Nelson! er, Bullock!
Lindsay had her baby girl this afternoon around 1:15pm. Weighing in at 5lbs, 11oz, that's a tiny baby girl indeed! Her name (confirmed) is Mayley Monica Bullock.
She aspirated meconium prior to birth and so there was a lot of pandemonium at birth and baby was rushed to NICU. All reports are that she is fine.
She aspirated meconium prior to birth and so there was a lot of pandemonium at birth and baby was rushed to NICU. All reports are that she is fine.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Avi's Surgery
Averi opened her eyes this morning.
Her eyes are still quite swollen and the lateral aspect of each eye is incredibly bloodshot. She's been lovingly referred to as our "vampire child." :) She is, quite obviously, very happy.
Her surgery on Friday, March 11th went excellently. She took some time to revive from the anesthetic but was much more reasonable than last time. She drank plenty of fluids right away, as well as a popsicle and some jello.
Her superbly dedicated surgeon has called once or twice a day to check up on her over the weekend. Avi's next appt with her is on Friday.
The helium balloon in the photo is from her caregiver, Linda. It came along with a care package that included crayons, a coloring book, Dora cards and snacks (which she couldn't eat until after the surgery). I was quite grateful for these activities as the wait for her surgery always seems to take forever...
I was unable to accompany her into the OR this time. I was of two minds about it anyway, since last time was somewhat traumatizing... It's very difficult to watch your child fight the strange smelling gas and then go completely helpless. The reason I didn't accompany her this time, however, was due to an injury I received while dropping Ella off at her caregiver's home... I slipped on some ice and bruised my knee (enough to limp for only a little while) and seriously sprained (my guess) my arm. I thought I had dislocated it at first since I could barely move my right arm/elbow/wrist without acute pain. I was left to guard it for the remainder of the day, disappointingly useless to my daughter while she was in the hospital. The staff were considerate and fashioned a makeshift sling for me (I believe it was a baby blanket).
While waiting for Averi during her surgery, a code blue was called in the Daysurgery department. A code blue indicates some sort of serious medical event, usually cardiac or respiratory arrest. Every parent in the room stopped what they were doing and held their breath. One mother then proceeded to panic and wail, requiring comfort from her mother and reassurances to her young son. Another mother started crying quietly. I just stared at the Daysurgery doors and waited for news. The code blue team rushed through the waiting room into Daysurg, inciting more panic to those present. I can't stand dramatics... Anyway, it turned out that a PARENT accompanying their child into Daysurgery had passed out, due to lack of food. (I think all parents go without food when their child also has to... I just went to the cafeteria as soon as they took Avi away... ;) ) It was a relief to hear but I couldn't help rolling my eyes at those who had chosen to engage in theatrics instead of waiting for an actual announcement.
The most mortifying thing about the whole experience was that the surgeon herself helped me to my van with Averi after discharge. No, wait... the most mortifying thing about the whole experience was that the surgeon paid for my parking because my debit card had become damaged in my pants pocket, where I had left it for easier access due to my injury. Of course, I'm paying her back but it was just a terrible day, in general.
Anyway, my range of motion has improved, though I still can't wash dishes (tee hee!) or write very well. Typing is much easier. ;)
Her eyes are still quite swollen and the lateral aspect of each eye is incredibly bloodshot. She's been lovingly referred to as our "vampire child." :) She is, quite obviously, very happy.
Her surgery on Friday, March 11th went excellently. She took some time to revive from the anesthetic but was much more reasonable than last time. She drank plenty of fluids right away, as well as a popsicle and some jello.
Her superbly dedicated surgeon has called once or twice a day to check up on her over the weekend. Avi's next appt with her is on Friday.
The helium balloon in the photo is from her caregiver, Linda. It came along with a care package that included crayons, a coloring book, Dora cards and snacks (which she couldn't eat until after the surgery). I was quite grateful for these activities as the wait for her surgery always seems to take forever...
I was unable to accompany her into the OR this time. I was of two minds about it anyway, since last time was somewhat traumatizing... It's very difficult to watch your child fight the strange smelling gas and then go completely helpless. The reason I didn't accompany her this time, however, was due to an injury I received while dropping Ella off at her caregiver's home... I slipped on some ice and bruised my knee (enough to limp for only a little while) and seriously sprained (my guess) my arm. I thought I had dislocated it at first since I could barely move my right arm/elbow/wrist without acute pain. I was left to guard it for the remainder of the day, disappointingly useless to my daughter while she was in the hospital. The staff were considerate and fashioned a makeshift sling for me (I believe it was a baby blanket).
While waiting for Averi during her surgery, a code blue was called in the Daysurgery department. A code blue indicates some sort of serious medical event, usually cardiac or respiratory arrest. Every parent in the room stopped what they were doing and held their breath. One mother then proceeded to panic and wail, requiring comfort from her mother and reassurances to her young son. Another mother started crying quietly. I just stared at the Daysurgery doors and waited for news. The code blue team rushed through the waiting room into Daysurg, inciting more panic to those present. I can't stand dramatics... Anyway, it turned out that a PARENT accompanying their child into Daysurgery had passed out, due to lack of food. (I think all parents go without food when their child also has to... I just went to the cafeteria as soon as they took Avi away... ;) ) It was a relief to hear but I couldn't help rolling my eyes at those who had chosen to engage in theatrics instead of waiting for an actual announcement.
The most mortifying thing about the whole experience was that the surgeon herself helped me to my van with Averi after discharge. No, wait... the most mortifying thing about the whole experience was that the surgeon paid for my parking because my debit card had become damaged in my pants pocket, where I had left it for easier access due to my injury. Of course, I'm paying her back but it was just a terrible day, in general.
Anyway, my range of motion has improved, though I still can't wash dishes (tee hee!) or write very well. Typing is much easier. ;)
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Extended Family News
I was reviewing my blog archives and realized that I used to announce Nelson news more often... Guess I should catch up on that...
Lindsay and Kyle are pregnant with their first and due in April!
Norm and Ariel are pregnant with their second and due a week after Lindsay!
We are, thankfully, not pregnant. We're actually "done" in the kid department. I was sad at first but am now completely relieved. I'm getting old and tired. ;)
Lindsay and Kyle are pregnant with their first and due in April!
Norm and Ariel are pregnant with their second and due a week after Lindsay!
We are, thankfully, not pregnant. We're actually "done" in the kid department. I was sad at first but am now completely relieved. I'm getting old and tired. ;)
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Civic Engagement
I am NOT a political activist. I ignore any and all references to elections, parties and politics... as a general rule. I know we've been encouraged to be involved in civic affairs, but I've never fostered an inclination do so.
My brother-in-law, Aaron, asked if we'd be willing to put up a lawn sign for the mayoral candidate he was supporting. I said I'd have to research his platform first. I put it off (just a little bit ;) ) but finally looked into Naheed Nenshi, as well as the other major candidates. Right about the time Nenshi gained momentum, soon entering a 3-way tie with the other front runners, I decided that I whole-heartedly endorsed his candidacy. Shawn followed suit and we invited Aaron to put a sign on our lawn. :)
If Shawn thought he was surprised at my "passion" for Nenshi, I was doubly surprised at the advocate I had become! I engaged in discussions with family, friends and co-workers about the reasons I was voting for Nenshi. I even participated in a "wave" on the Anderson Station pedestrian bridge over Macleod Trail on Election Day! So fun!
I'm thrilled to say that Nenshi stunned political observers with his come-from-behind WIN against the shoe-in alderman and the popular news anchor!!
Here's me and Calgary's new mayor!!
My brother-in-law, Aaron, asked if we'd be willing to put up a lawn sign for the mayoral candidate he was supporting. I said I'd have to research his platform first. I put it off (just a little bit ;) ) but finally looked into Naheed Nenshi, as well as the other major candidates. Right about the time Nenshi gained momentum, soon entering a 3-way tie with the other front runners, I decided that I whole-heartedly endorsed his candidacy. Shawn followed suit and we invited Aaron to put a sign on our lawn. :)
If Shawn thought he was surprised at my "passion" for Nenshi, I was doubly surprised at the advocate I had become! I engaged in discussions with family, friends and co-workers about the reasons I was voting for Nenshi. I even participated in a "wave" on the Anderson Station pedestrian bridge over Macleod Trail on Election Day! So fun!
I'm thrilled to say that Nenshi stunned political observers with his come-from-behind WIN against the shoe-in alderman and the popular news anchor!!
Here's me and Calgary's new mayor!!
Monday, October 18, 2010
Avi Eye Update
Averi has been scheduled for an MRI to determine the location of her eye muscles. The surgeon would like to continue to correct Averi's eye(s), if at all possible, but can't pronounce the prognosis until she gets a look inside. She said she doesn't like surprises... like Avi's 1st surgery! ;)
I don't know why, but I was actually surprised that Averi may have more surgery(ies) for her condition. I mean, obviously, her eyes aren't fixed but ... I guess I thought that that was it. Hm. Well, Averi did so well the first time that I'm optimistic if she has more work done. I just want to do right by my baby...
I don't know why, but I was actually surprised that Averi may have more surgery(ies) for her condition. I mean, obviously, her eyes aren't fixed but ... I guess I thought that that was it. Hm. Well, Averi did so well the first time that I'm optimistic if she has more work done. I just want to do right by my baby...
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Avi Goes to the Hospital... Again
I got a call at work this last Wednesday saying that I needed to pick up Averi and take her to the doctor. She had excruciating lower abdominal pain and a fever. She had been up several times throughout the night before but her general complaints of sore tummy had me administering some Tylenol and putting her back to bed. At least I'd had the frame of mind to warn her babysitter.
I took her to a walk-in clinic where she was immediately seen and then referred to the Children's hospital. Suspicion? Appendicitis!
The ER doc (resident) was fairly certain it was appendicitis and moved Avi to a different bed within the ER to await blood work and a surgical consult. She had an IV started (the nurses wrap the kids up in a blanket with only the necessary limb extruding!) and the surgical resident echoed the ER doc's opinion. So we waited for the "big boss" to come and examine Avi but it turned out her white count was normal (not indicative of bacterial infection).
The surgeon indicated that the pain was in the right place for appendicitis but Avi's age worked against the diagnosis. An ultrasound was ordered despite the late hour. It turned out inconclusive, of course, as pertains to her appendix though there were remarkably HUGE lymph nodes within her abdomen as well as fluid in her bowels even though diarrhea was not amongst her symptoms. This explained the pain, to my thinking, since Avi didn't seem to localize her pain to only the right lower quadrant of her abdomen. The entire width of her lower abdomen was the culprit. (The ultrasound tech mentioned mesenteric adenitis, but again, no nausea, vomiting or diarrhea were present.)
Averi was admitted overnight for observation. Her condition did not worsen, in fact, her fever disappeared. The abdominal pain remained but had lessened enough that Avi could move around. This ruled out the appendicitis but, unfortunately, we did not leave the Children's with an actual diagnosis... It will probably be attributed to a viral gastroenteritis, despite the lack of typical GI symptoms.
I was given a list of symptoms to watch for and she was sent on her merry way.
She has completely recovered but I will always wonder what happened to my girl!
[Edited to add: Most Responsible Diagnosis - Mesenteric Adenitis] ;)
I took her to a walk-in clinic where she was immediately seen and then referred to the Children's hospital. Suspicion? Appendicitis!
The ER doc (resident) was fairly certain it was appendicitis and moved Avi to a different bed within the ER to await blood work and a surgical consult. She had an IV started (the nurses wrap the kids up in a blanket with only the necessary limb extruding!) and the surgical resident echoed the ER doc's opinion. So we waited for the "big boss" to come and examine Avi but it turned out her white count was normal (not indicative of bacterial infection).
The surgeon indicated that the pain was in the right place for appendicitis but Avi's age worked against the diagnosis. An ultrasound was ordered despite the late hour. It turned out inconclusive, of course, as pertains to her appendix though there were remarkably HUGE lymph nodes within her abdomen as well as fluid in her bowels even though diarrhea was not amongst her symptoms. This explained the pain, to my thinking, since Avi didn't seem to localize her pain to only the right lower quadrant of her abdomen. The entire width of her lower abdomen was the culprit. (The ultrasound tech mentioned mesenteric adenitis, but again, no nausea, vomiting or diarrhea were present.)
Averi was admitted overnight for observation. Her condition did not worsen, in fact, her fever disappeared. The abdominal pain remained but had lessened enough that Avi could move around. This ruled out the appendicitis but, unfortunately, we did not leave the Children's with an actual diagnosis... It will probably be attributed to a viral gastroenteritis, despite the lack of typical GI symptoms.
I was given a list of symptoms to watch for and she was sent on her merry way.
She has completely recovered but I will always wonder what happened to my girl!
[Edited to add: Most Responsible Diagnosis - Mesenteric Adenitis] ;)
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Avi's Surgery
I realized recently that I haven't posted about Avi's surgery... A rather significant event!
Thursday, September 2nd was not only Avi's surgery date but also Taylor's 1st day of Kindergarten. After some discussion, it was decided that I would take Avi to surgery and Daddy would take Taylor to school--with the understanding that several pictures must be taken (see next post).
Averi did very well with getting her blood pressure taken, etc. She looked so cute in her little hospital PJs! Unfortunately, since Daddy had the camera, the only pics I got are on my cell phone. :(
The hospital staff loved Averi, of course. She was so full of sunshine and energy. This blond little head could be seen bobbing all over the Day Surgery unit because she insisted on playing at every toy station we could find. We then had to content ourselves with wheelchair rides.
Finally, the porter arrived to take Averi to the surgical unit. She had seen other patients taken out on their beds and so, even though it wasn't necessary, Averi finally got to have her "ride" on the bed.
I got to hold Averi while the anesthesia was administered (Dr. Stuart Neil). She chose the "strawberry" scent which is administered as some drops within the mask. Avi and I held the mask to her face together, but eventually the smell of the anesthetic becomes stronger than the strawberry and she kind of fought the mask. Soon, she relaxed and her eyes closed. At this point, Avi was transferred to the surgical bed and I had to head towards the Day Surg waiting room--my home for the next 3 hours.
I watched many doctors enter in to inform parents of results so the wait seemed interminable to me. When Dr. Linda Cooper and her assistant, Dr. Wood, finally approached me, however, I was caught unawares. Averi was fine, Averi did well. They operated on 2 muscles in her left eye and 3 in her right. One of the muscles on her right eye, unfortunately, was anomalous and so they were unable to fix it. Apparently, this happens about 1 in 100 patients. What does this mean for Avi? Her right eye will still turn inward a bit. There was also quite a bit of intraoperative bleeding so swelling and bruising would likely be significant.
I was informed that it would probably be a half hour to 45 minutes until she revived but I was called in sooner due to her agitated state. I was told that it was quite normal for children of her age to be angry and confused when awakening since they don't really understand what's going on. She was quite vocal and spit out her codeine and ripped off the small towel they had taped around her IV hand so she couldn't pull it out. They suggested I sing to her and I knew that that would probably work since we sing to her every night. The singing helped a little. The saddest thing ever was Averi's bloody tears. :(
She continued to be vocal while transferring her back to the Day Surg unit from PACU (Recovery) but soon fell asleep after arrival. She slept in my arms for a good few hours. Dr. Cooper arrived and explained that she would awaken in much better spirits and promised to return soon. This proved to be true and I was amazed at how well Avi adapted to not being able to open her eyes. "Never underestimate the power of sleeping in mother's arms," is what Dr. Cooper said. ;)
I have to mention how amazing Averi's Pediatric Ophthalmologist is! She called every day over the long weekend to check on her patient, saw her immediately in the Vision Clinic when we had concerns about her swelling and called again yesterday to check on her. Shawn did take her in to the Ophthalmology Clinic at the Rockyview today, where Dr. Cooper told us she was on call, to ask about inflammation on the eye. She responded in her usual exuberant and dedicated and considerate way, examining Averi in the hallway whilst between destinations.
After waking up, she was hungry, of course! My hungry little Avi! She was only allowed jello, crackers, arrowroot cookies, apple juice, ice chips and popsicles. Unfortunately, since we used a popsicle to get her to open her mouth for the codeine in PACU, she refused them ever after.
On the way home from the hospital on surgery day, Avi wanted to listen to Lady Gaga's "Bad Romance" over and over again! She's so cute! As of this writing, she can now sing along with parts of it! ;)
Averi's first day postop was probably her toughest and, almost, our easiest! She couldn't open her eyes and so relied upon us completely for all her needs. It also kept her out of trouble! ;) I was completely amazed, again, at how easily a child adapted to temporary blindness!
Thursday, September 2nd was not only Avi's surgery date but also Taylor's 1st day of Kindergarten. After some discussion, it was decided that I would take Avi to surgery and Daddy would take Taylor to school--with the understanding that several pictures must be taken (see next post).
Averi did very well with getting her blood pressure taken, etc. She looked so cute in her little hospital PJs! Unfortunately, since Daddy had the camera, the only pics I got are on my cell phone. :(
The hospital staff loved Averi, of course. She was so full of sunshine and energy. This blond little head could be seen bobbing all over the Day Surgery unit because she insisted on playing at every toy station we could find. We then had to content ourselves with wheelchair rides.
Finally, the porter arrived to take Averi to the surgical unit. She had seen other patients taken out on their beds and so, even though it wasn't necessary, Averi finally got to have her "ride" on the bed.
I got to hold Averi while the anesthesia was administered (Dr. Stuart Neil). She chose the "strawberry" scent which is administered as some drops within the mask. Avi and I held the mask to her face together, but eventually the smell of the anesthetic becomes stronger than the strawberry and she kind of fought the mask. Soon, she relaxed and her eyes closed. At this point, Avi was transferred to the surgical bed and I had to head towards the Day Surg waiting room--my home for the next 3 hours.
I watched many doctors enter in to inform parents of results so the wait seemed interminable to me. When Dr. Linda Cooper and her assistant, Dr. Wood, finally approached me, however, I was caught unawares. Averi was fine, Averi did well. They operated on 2 muscles in her left eye and 3 in her right. One of the muscles on her right eye, unfortunately, was anomalous and so they were unable to fix it. Apparently, this happens about 1 in 100 patients. What does this mean for Avi? Her right eye will still turn inward a bit. There was also quite a bit of intraoperative bleeding so swelling and bruising would likely be significant.
I was informed that it would probably be a half hour to 45 minutes until she revived but I was called in sooner due to her agitated state. I was told that it was quite normal for children of her age to be angry and confused when awakening since they don't really understand what's going on. She was quite vocal and spit out her codeine and ripped off the small towel they had taped around her IV hand so she couldn't pull it out. They suggested I sing to her and I knew that that would probably work since we sing to her every night. The singing helped a little. The saddest thing ever was Averi's bloody tears. :(
She continued to be vocal while transferring her back to the Day Surg unit from PACU (Recovery) but soon fell asleep after arrival. She slept in my arms for a good few hours. Dr. Cooper arrived and explained that she would awaken in much better spirits and promised to return soon. This proved to be true and I was amazed at how well Avi adapted to not being able to open her eyes. "Never underestimate the power of sleeping in mother's arms," is what Dr. Cooper said. ;)
I have to mention how amazing Averi's Pediatric Ophthalmologist is! She called every day over the long weekend to check on her patient, saw her immediately in the Vision Clinic when we had concerns about her swelling and called again yesterday to check on her. Shawn did take her in to the Ophthalmology Clinic at the Rockyview today, where Dr. Cooper told us she was on call, to ask about inflammation on the eye. She responded in her usual exuberant and dedicated and considerate way, examining Averi in the hallway whilst between destinations.
After waking up, she was hungry, of course! My hungry little Avi! She was only allowed jello, crackers, arrowroot cookies, apple juice, ice chips and popsicles. Unfortunately, since we used a popsicle to get her to open her mouth for the codeine in PACU, she refused them ever after.
On the way home from the hospital on surgery day, Avi wanted to listen to Lady Gaga's "Bad Romance" over and over again! She's so cute! As of this writing, she can now sing along with parts of it! ;)
Averi's first day postop was probably her toughest and, almost, our easiest! She couldn't open her eyes and so relied upon us completely for all her needs. It also kept her out of trouble! ;) I was completely amazed, again, at how easily a child adapted to temporary blindness!
Sorry this one's blurry... This is post op surgery day...
All she wanted post op (in hospital and at home) was fishy crackers!
Her IV bandaid.
Avi making a pouty face! ;)
Avi and Mommy. You can see some of the postop swelling in her right eye.
I have to say that I will never forget how magnificent it was to hold Averi in her post op slumber for those hours in the hospital. I love my beautiful little sweetheart!
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