tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-346476352024-03-12T21:27:40.651-05:00Benjamin's BlogThe adventures of our cranio kid.Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.comBlogger175125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-45689052583386088642009-04-08T16:28:00.007-05:002009-04-08T16:53:06.475-05:00The End?It's been over a year since Benjamin's diagnosis and surgery and almost one year since he graduated out of the helmet. I've kept this blog up to record memories for Benjamin to have one day. But thankfully, we are at the end of his cranio story.<br /><br />If you look back at posts from May of 2007 you will see the anxiousness of a mother as she awaited the arrival of her new son.<br /><br />Not long after that, you will see the exhaustion of motherhood taking over, as well as the frustration of having a difficult baby.<br /><br />In November and December of 2007 you will see the uncertainty of a family as we faced a never before heard of diagnosis and the doubt and fears of a major surgery on our sweet six month old.<br /><br />There are times of joy, or praise, of thanksgiving too.<br /><br />One of my prayers is that through this blog, you will see our faith. A faith that carried us through the hard, dark, and uncertain times. A faith that made our joy and praise richer than ever. Look past the doubt of this mother, and see the hand of Benjamin's Creator as it moves through our lives.<br /><br />My other prayer is that this blog would be used as a resource for parents who have children facing the same diagnosis as Benjamin faced. It's scary! Craniosynostosis is a big word that I had never heard of. If you are a parent of a cranio kid, you're not alone! On the sidebar of Benjamin's Blog is his story, as told through this blog. And the best part is that there's a happy ending!<br /><br />And if you have a cranio kid, please feel free to contact me at <a href="mailto:kierstynkrajca@hotmail.com">kierstynkrajca@hotmail.com</a> for more encouragement. Or just leave a comment, so I know you were here.<br /><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322440218422833762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/Sd0bLd1YcmI/AAAAAAAAEig/QD6ztKReBGU/s320/DSC_0260.JPG" border="0" /> This picture was taken today, of my beautiful, blue eyed, cranio kid!! How far God has brought us and I praise Him for how good He has been to us!</p><br />Thank you to all our friends and family who have supported and encouraged us on this journey. You mean more to us then we can express!<br /><br /><br />God is good all the time, all the time, God is good!!!Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-62878893839108988812009-02-09T22:58:00.004-06:002009-02-09T23:17:38.620-06:00Benjamin's Story of God's FaithfulnessI posted on our family blog about my new "hobby", making books on-line. My first attempt at making a book came after I got word that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Snapfish</span> was giving away a free book. I jumped on, confirmed the information, and decided I wanted to make a book of Benjamin's journey. Obviously, he won't remember any of the things he went through, as we <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">dealt</span> with his <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">cranio</span>. I wanted him to have something tangible, something that contained some of my thoughts and prayer. A place where I could record some of the scripture I prayed over him. One place where I could record the song I sang to him while he was in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">PICU</span>. I had toyed with the idea of putting it all in his scrapbook, but didn't want the whole <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">cranio</span> thing to be the main focus of his first year.<br /><div></div><br /><div> </div><div>It was hard to put all those things in one place. It was hard to go through all the pictures again, and have the memories flood my thoughts again. I laughed, I cried, I prayed, praising God for how well Benjamin is now. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Finally, I was happy with the end product, and I went to order it, only to find out that I had missed the deadline for a free book by one day. I was so upset!! This wasn't just any book, this was my heart. But it was a month before Christmas, and I wasn't about to pay full price for something I didn't need.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Well, my Mom, being ever so <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">sneaky</span>, figured out how to get onto my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Snapfish</span> account, and ordered the book for me for Christmas! I was so excited! And it's beautiful. I love the way it all came together. It really meant to world to me, and I was so thankful that once again, my mom saw a need and met it for me.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>So here's parts of Benjamin's story book.</div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SZEKC84hEJI/AAAAAAAAEPI/CIZsq0W5EQE/s1600-h/100_5169.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301029282210975890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SZEKC84hEJI/AAAAAAAAEPI/CIZsq0W5EQE/s320/100_5169.JPG" border="0" /></a> <em>the cover</em><br /><br /><div><em></em><em></em><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SZEKChYFeOI/AAAAAAAAEPA/9x8YGWGX608/s1600-h/100_5175.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301029274827192546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SZEKChYFeOI/AAAAAAAAEPA/9x8YGWGX608/s320/100_5175.JPG" border="0" /></a> <em>One of my favorite pages, the grandparents with Benjamin.</em><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SZEKCrOjCcI/AAAAAAAAEO4/Iq8hWx_uNb8/s1600-h/100_5179.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301029277471541698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SZEKCrOjCcI/AAAAAAAAEO4/Iq8hWx_uNb8/s320/100_5179.JPG" border="0" /></a><em>Gotta love the helmet pictures!!!</em> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301029268478269394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SZEKCJuYl9I/AAAAAAAAEOo/PGR8uy_3MMo/s320/100_5185.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SZEKCbvB9KI/AAAAAAAAEOw/GiNGgamFolA/s1600-h/100_5183.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301029273312818338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SZEKCbvB9KI/AAAAAAAAEOw/GiNGgamFolA/s320/100_5183.JPG" border="0" /></a></div></div></div></div><br /><p align="center"><em>And the verse that comforted me so much, the verse that I prayed over Benjamin, and the verse I claim for him... Psalm 71.</em></p><br /><p align="center">Though the book was really hard to put together, I'm thankful for this book. I'm thankful for the reminder of God's love, goodness, grace, peace and most of all, faithfulness. He took something so very scary, so very hard, and worked it for His glory and our good.</p><br /><p align="center">The last page of Benjamin's book says, "God is good all the time. All the time, God is good."</p><br /><p align="center">Amen, and amen!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301033025231433746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SZENc0uIsBI/AAAAAAAAEPQ/GSy2K6NJaiU/s320/100_5187.JPG" border="0" /></p>Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-3876061480561645832009-02-05T10:20:00.002-06:002009-02-05T10:32:54.354-06:00A good report<div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SYsSBlt2EAI/AAAAAAAAEMg/yNz6pN1y30w/s1600-h/100_5119.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299349205045088258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SYsSBlt2EAI/AAAAAAAAEMg/yNz6pN1y30w/s320/100_5119.JPG" border="0" /></a> <em>Isn't this a sweet face???</em> <br />Yesterday we made the familiar <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">trek</span> to Austin to see Dr. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Aronin</span>, Benjamin's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">neuro</span> surgeon. We have to go every six month, just to check in, make sure the hole in his head is closing up, make sure his <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">development</span> is on track, share any concerns, all that good stuff. Benjamin's appointment went very well. He is doing great, is on track, has a shrinking hole in his head.... life's good! We'll go back again in August, just to check in again.<br /><br />At this stage in the game, we expect to hear good reports. But we never take them for granted. There are so many things that could have gone wrong, that could still go wrong, and we are thankful that God has given Benjamin such a remarkable recovery. He is so good to us!<br /></div>Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-21988359868669517542009-02-01T21:17:00.002-06:002009-02-01T21:30:19.080-06:00Right BackAs I'm driving, on the same road I drove to and from Austin so many times, I get hit with that old familiar feeling, and I'm right back where I was.<br /><br />While standing in church, training the two older kids, the words of a song will penetrate, " All my trust on Thee is stayed, All my help from Thee I bring; Cover my defenseless head With the shadow of Thy wing." and I'm right back where I was.<br /><br />A picture.<br /><br />A conversation.<br /><br />Getting a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">glimpse</span> of his scar.<br /><br />Any of these things can take me right back to where I was. To those hours in the waiting room, when all I could do was pray, hope and wait, longing to hold my baby. To those moments in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">PICU</span> when I was so scared, so worried, so overwhelmed with emotions. To the moment when we got to go home! When we received good report, after good report. To all the exhausting trips to Austin and back. So many moments. Some good, some bad.<br /><br />The road we've traveled has not always been easy (isn't that just life?). This road hasn't always been filled with the joy that I long for. But this isn't a road we've had to walk on alone. Every step of the way, our Savior has been with us; guiding us, protecting us, encouraging us, strengthening us. And that makes all those other moments worth it, knowing that I am now walking a closer walk with my Savior.Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-74825314493491041312008-11-27T22:32:00.001-06:002008-11-27T22:35:27.698-06:00One year<div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SS90zC9BEjI/AAAAAAAADxQ/6pTwATVKoOg/s1600-h/100_9163.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5273562108989084210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SS90zC9BEjI/AAAAAAAADxQ/6pTwATVKoOg/s320/100_9163.JPG" border="0" /></a> Thanksgiving 2007<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SS90y0cOZVI/AAAAAAAADxI/Zk9KXrFt86c/s1600-h/100_4226.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5273562105093449042" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SS90y0cOZVI/AAAAAAAADxI/Zk9KXrFt86c/s320/100_4226.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /></div><p align="center">Thanksgiving 2008</p><p align="center"> </p><p align="center">My, what a difference one year and cranial surgery can make!</p>Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-31199858215152868702008-11-27T10:12:00.002-06:002008-11-27T10:27:16.798-06:00Happy ThanksgivingHappy Thanksgiving!!!<br /><br />Not only is today Thanksgiving, but it is also one year since Benjamin got his diagnosis. How far God has brought us all!<br /><br />My hope was to write several posts about all the things I'm thankful for, but that didn't happen. So, I'm just going to list several of the things that I am thankful for.<br /><ul><li>I'm thankful for Benjamin's health. It hasn't been an easy road, but today, he is a perfectly healthy little boy! That's more than I could say a year ago.</li><li>I'm thankful for God's protection and provision. He protected Benjamin during surgery and recovery. He protected us during several trips to and from Austin. He provided for all our needs... physical, spiritual, monetarily.</li><li>I'm thankful for my parents and for Curtis' Dad and his Dad's wife Melinda. Their love, prayers, encouragement have meant so very much to us.</li><li>I'm thankful for our siblings who have been there for us as we've walked this sometimes rough road.</li><li>I'm thankful for our dear friends the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Findleys</span>, who have joined us in the middle of all our drama, including driving to Austin to be with us after Benjamin's surgery.</li><li>I'm thankful for all our friends who have supported us with prayers, food, babysitting, listening ears, and just loving us in every way possible.</li><li>I'm thankful for the Word, and how the Spirit has comforted.</li><li>I'm thankful for Kenny, Lindsey, Adam and Andrew who helped, comforted and strengthened us by their faith.</li><li>I'm thankful for Kris, Andria and Zak, who can related to our struggles.</li><li>I'm thankful for the great medical care that Benjamin received.</li><li>I'm thankful our church, who cared for us like family.</li><li>I'm thankful for the people who stopped what they were doing to hold us, hug us, and pray with us.</li><li>I'm thankful for prayer.</li></ul><br />God has been so good to us! We have so much to be thankful for this year. Last Thanksgiving, we still didn't have Benjamin's diagnosis. We were still in a state of worry, confusion and prayer. And now look at where we are! It hasn't always been easy, but by God's grace we've made it.<br /><br />Thank you again, to all of you who have lifted us up in prayer, who have encouraged us, who have loved us so well!Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-38397701471028244272008-11-14T16:50:00.006-06:002008-11-15T01:21:02.716-06:00Thankful for CurtisAs I reflect on the people who have been there for me and our family as we've walked down this crazy road with Benjamin, the very first person who comes to my mind is, of course, Curtis.<br /><br />From the moment he became a father, Curtis has been an amazing father! What an amazing process to watch him become even better at a job he already excels at, as we add more children to our family.<br /><div><div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SR4A3p0muPI/AAAAAAAADr8/GJzInimnt88/s1600-h/100_6403.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5268649570189359346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SR4A3p0muPI/AAAAAAAADr8/GJzInimnt88/s400/100_6403.JPG" border="0" /></a> In the above picture, Curtis was telling me, "I know you can't tell, but I'm smiling! A lot!" Benjamin's birth was such a joyful day for us. Despite the surprise of the pregnancy, despite the post <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">partum</span> depression that we dealt with while I was pregnant, it was a wonderful day! Curtis was nothing sort of incredible during my pregnancy with Benjamin.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5268649842369331122" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SR4BHfxXf7I/AAAAAAAADsE/0JuaHrgq0so/s400/100_6512.JPG" border="0" />Benjamin was a beautiful baby. Curtis and I spend the afternoon he was born, before all our company arrived, just staring at our beautiful new son.</div><div></div><div>During the really trying days, when Benjamin didn't sleep, when he cried for hours, without being consoled, Curtis was my support. I could call him, totally freaking out, and at the end of my rope and he had a way of making it better, of calming me in the midst of the most chaotic moments (and there were many).</div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div>Once Benjamin received his diagnosis, and we started down the road of surgery and recovery, Curtis was there for him and for me. There were days where I was so scared, so overwhelmed, and so angry, that emotions spilled out, and Curtis took it. We fought, we cried, and at the end of the day we were so thankful for each other.<br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5268650472805176722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SR4BsMU_FZI/AAAAAAAADsM/iWrhJk9kIxw/s400/100_9557.JPG" border="0" />Curtis, thank you for walking down this road with me. Thank you for calming me, for pointing me back to Christ. I look back at the past year, and I really don't know how we made it. But I know that the love we share has made it possible. Thank you for loving me, and our children so much!<br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5268651935006933442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SR4DBTdDQcI/AAAAAAAADsU/3rdhQfmh3aw/s400/100_1485.JPG" border="0" /></div></div></div>Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-12782359160562118742008-11-12T14:09:00.004-06:002008-11-12T14:57:57.867-06:00Can you believe it's been almost a year?!I was just going through a few old posts, from this time last year. This was about the time we were wading through the insurance mess, trying to find out what to do, what doctor to see, and praying that Benjamin didn't have this head "thingy" (I still didn't even know how to say <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">craniosynistosis</span>!). I spent as much time as possible reading up on this head deformity, taking pictures of Benjamin's head to compare to the pictures on line, praying, reading scripture, and just worrying.<br /><br />My how long ago that seems!<br /><br />As I look back, I am flooded with many emotions. But mainly, I am overwhelmed with thankfulness. I am so thankful for the protection that God showed Benjamin! To think how he was, and to see him now is like night and day. God lavished his protection, grace, and healing on Benjamin. I am so thankful!<br /><br />There are also many people to who we are forever thankful for. As I begin to prepare for the holiday season, I'm going to take time to remember just a few of the people I am so thankful for. So, stay tuned!Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-7103149486748696442008-10-29T16:35:00.002-05:002008-10-29T16:48:35.963-05:00"I prayed for you!"<div>Today, after my young mom's bible study, I was talking with a couple of the ladies. I made a comment about what Benjamin had been through, and one of the sweet ladies asked, "What happened?" I started telling her about how Benjamin was born with a rare head deformity and she stopped me saying, "I prayed for him!" </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Those words were some of the most powerful words I have ever heard. I thanked her, and I hope she understood how truly thankful I was. And I know that she wasn't the only stranger that lifted Benjamin, Curtis and I before the throne of God. How thankful I am to all the people, those who we love, and those who we don't yet know, who prayed for us. And I know one day, probably in Heaven, I will get to meet every single person who prayed for us.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Knowing how blessed I was by prayer, I am asking again that you lift up another family who is facing the same thing we did. Here's a picture of Anderson (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Ande</span>) and his momma, Kim.</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262695785363722946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SQjZ7w-M0sI/AAAAAAAADnY/aqezxh3OCkQ/s320/ande.jpg" border="0" />I spoke with Kim earlier this month, and just haven't taken the time to share her and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Ande</span> with you all. But please join me in praying for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Ande</span>! I believe that he has already had his surgery, and I hope to have another update soon.<br /><div></div><br /><div>Thank you!</div>Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-18954491763652510542008-09-15T10:49:00.003-05:002008-09-15T11:08:33.237-05:00More about sweet ZakLast night, Curtis and I were blessed to be able to spend some time with Kris, Andria and Zak. Even though I have been through this I was still SHOCKED to see how great he looks! He was playing, "talking" to us, and just being as sweet as he could be. Praise God for his great goodness and love!<br /><br />Andria was telling me how full her heart feels, and how she can't stop smiling. And I know that feeling! The feeling of praise, of joy, of thankfulness. And it's been even more amazing to see that Kris and Andria are praising God.<br /><br />Thank you for your continued prayers!Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-19007910228081737902008-09-11T17:06:00.002-05:002008-09-11T17:18:24.351-05:00ZakI just talked to Kris, Zak's dad, and Zak is doing pretty good. Everything went as planned, and I could hear sweet Zak crying in the background. Our conversation was very brief, but they seemed to be doing well, and were praising God for his rich blessings!<br /><br /><div align="center">Praise the LORD, O my soul; </div><div align="center">all my inmost being, praise his holy name.<br />Praise the LORD, O my soul, </div><div align="center">and forget not all his benefits-<br />who forgives all your sins </div><div align="center">and heals all your diseases,<br />who redeems your life from the pit </div><div align="center">and crowns you with love and compassion,<br />who satisfies your desires with good things </div><div align="center"> so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's. </div><div align="center">Psalm 103:1-5</div>Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-87713069904876841002008-09-01T20:11:00.008-05:002008-09-01T21:52:22.129-05:00Prayer Request<p align="left"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SLySzL2Q75I/AAAAAAAACdU/aSgJ2u3eRGM/s1600-h/100_3083.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5241225474403790738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SLySzL2Q75I/AAAAAAAACdU/aSgJ2u3eRGM/s320/100_3083.JPG" border="0" /></a><em>This is Zak, Benjamin's new cranio kid friend!</em></p><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left">Please join our family in praying for Zak. Last week he received the same diagnosis as Benjamin did, craniosynostosis. He will be having surgery next week, on the 11th.</div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">God is so amazing! Through friends, an aunt, and the boys' neuro surgeon, our families were put in touch. This evening, we had dinner with our new friends. For Curtis and I, it was a very special time to encourage fellow believers facing some of the same fears that we have faced.</div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">So, to all our faithful prayer warriors, please pray for Zak and his parents Kris and Andria! Curtis and I know first hand the power and blessing of prayer, thanks to all of you who so faithfully lifted us up! Kris and Andria check this blog frequently, so feel free to leave prayers, Bible verses, words of encouragement here. (Watch out Kris and Andria.... I'm going to be leaving lots of comments of my own with all the amazing scripture that helped us!!)</div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em>Father God, I praise you tonight for your faithfulness. Thank for being our God and a God to our children. Your promises are true, and we claim them, knowing that you are faithful.</em></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em>Father your Word says that we are perplexed, but not driven to despair. I pray that Kris and Andria would not feel despair. Lord, I pray that you would hold them, comfort them, encourage them, and grant them peace. It the hard times, in the scary times, in the moments when they don't know how they will do this, I pray that you would sustain them. Grant them perfect peace, as they wait on you.</em></div><div align="left"><em></em> </div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em>Lord, your Word also tells us that you have a plan to prosper, and not harm us. I pray that you would fulfill this promise to Zak. I pray that through all this, you would draw him closer to you. I pray that you would protect him and sustain him. Lord, would you prosper him, and grow him into a man who loves you. May he one day declare the marvelous deeds that you have done!</em></div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em>Father, I again thank you for all that you have done for my family! Thank you for bringing us together with Zak, Kris and Andria. Please be with our friends, protect and keep them.</em></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em>Amen. </em></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div>Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-27548588246542262602008-08-24T22:20:00.003-05:002008-08-24T22:32:20.286-05:00Thinking backTonight, we had our first night back at Covenant Kids. This time last year, I would take Benjamin to the nursery, drop him off, and leave, knowing that even though he was screaming his sweet little head off, <a href="http://hannahkev7.blogspot.com/">Ms. Hannah</a> would love him and take care of him. Curtis and I would go to Dairy Queen and read, enjoying a little break. It was such a tough time! Benjamin wasn't sleeping during the day, and was up at least twice during the night. He cried incessantly! Nothing seemed to help him. It was exhausting, frustrating and just made life tough.<br /><br />This evening, Hannah and I were talking about what a difference a year has made in Benjamin's life. And I again found myself praising God for all the love and grace he has shown our family!! I also found myself even more thankful for all the friends who helped us during those tough times of sleeplessness and crying. God has been so good to us!Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-11797384654323519392008-08-13T22:25:00.002-05:002008-08-13T22:39:10.130-05:00ScrapbookingI love to scrapbook! It's a little hobby that <a href="http://findleyfamily.org/">my</a> <a href="http://jasonsclan.blogspot.com/">friends</a> sucked me into while I was pregnant with Elizabeth. And to feed this horrible little hobby, I've even become a Creative Memories consultant, to get my stuff at discount, of course!<br /><br />I currently have three, almost four, albums going. My family album for 2007, my professional pictures album (the very first picture is our engagement picture!), our wedding album and Benjamin's first year.<br /><br />I've put Benjamin's album on hold for a couple reasons. One, I really need to get the other albums finished since CM is changing their pages and I have all old pages in these albums. But the main reason is that I just don't know what to do in his album next. I'm just about to his surgery, and I'm a little stuck.<br /><br /><a href="http://findleyfamily.org/">Christi</a> gave me some good advice. I can look at it two different ways. One, just give the facts, include some pictures, but just stick to the basics. Or, I can go the highly emotional route and include every detail of every emotion that I was feeling.<br /><br />And I'm sure you can guess which one I tend to. The emotional one!<br /><br />And that about sums up how life post surgery and post helmet has been. I often find myself wanting to just stay in that emotional place, where I think about all the thoughts, feelings and emotions that surrounded us. I find myself looking at old blogs, pictures, and just being a big weepy mess! <br /><br />But that's not where God has called me to be. He's given me grace for today. And that's where I need to rest and stay.<br /><br />I am so thankful for the story that I have to tell! It should be interesting to see how I portray the whole story in Benjamin's album. And even though it is a pretty amazing story, I don't think that this will be the greatest story that I tell about Benjamin. God is just beginning to work in the lives of my children!!Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-79459662969298874782008-07-24T21:34:00.002-05:002008-07-24T21:37:32.078-05:00Outstanding!That's what Dr. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Arronin</span> had to say about Benjamin when we saw her yesterday. Outstanding! Everything is going as planned, just like it should. He is healthy, and will have no long term problems from all this. Praise God!<br /><br />Long term.... we will go back in six months (January). Then, we'll go back six months after that. Hopefully, if all continues going as it is now, we will then only be going once a year. She said we would be doing that while his head grows at such a rapid rate. Once his head growth slows, we should be done. Not sure exactly how long that will be.<br /><br />We are so, very, thankful for another good report! God has been so good to us!Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-18967136466492303112008-07-17T15:58:00.003-05:002008-07-17T17:17:15.649-05:00In My ArmsI heard this song on the radio today, and thought it was beautiful! The song triggered some memories, which then triggered a thought process, which of course led to this blog. :-) Funny how that happens!<br /><br />Here's the first part of the song and the chorus.<br /><br />Your baby blues<br />So full of wonder<br />Your curlicues<br />Your contagious smile<br />And as I watch<br />You start to grow up<br />All I can do is hold you tight<br /><br />Knowing<br />Clouds will rage in<br />Storms will race in<br />But you will be safe in my arms<br />Rains will pour down<br />Waves will crash all around<br />But you will be safe in my arms<br /><br />There have been so many instances where I have held my baby, looking at their sweet face, knowing full well that they are sinners, born into a sin marred world. A world where they will fall down and get hurt, where sickness is inevitable, and where people will hurt them. Even though they are very loved, and even though Curtis and I vow to do everything possible to shelter and protect them, we know we can't. But in that moment, as I look into their sweet face, they are safe in my arms.<br /><br />I remember holding Benjamin for the last time before his surgery, as Curtis and I prayed over him. And then the doctor came, and I let him leave the safety of my arms. And even worse, I knew what he was about to undergo. It was the hardest part of the entire day for me, to have my baby leave my arms, probably the hardest thing that I have ever done. I know that the only way I was able to do that without completely losing it was to know that my arms aren't the safest place for him, or any of my children. Try as I may, I can't protect them from the trials they will encounter. Even though I did everything "right" during my pregnancy, I couldn't protect Benjamin from his deformity. And even though I love my children, so very much, I know that they are loved by Someone who can keep them safe. And so, at that moment when I let my baby leave the safety of my arms, I thought about the ONE who was holding him.<br /><br />After the surgery, I went back to the recovery room to be with Benjamin as he woke up. Coming out of anesthesia isn't fun, especially when you are six months old! I was nervous about seeing him for the first time, unsure of what to expect. But the joy that I had seeing him, doing so well was immense! Never mind the cords, the wires, the beeping, or the massive bandage. God had protected him, and kept him safe in HIS arms. <br /><br />"We don't usually let Mom or Dad hold their baby right after surgery," the nurse told me. "But Dr. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Aronin</span> gave special instructions to let you hold him." I was so thankful!! It was quite a challenge to maneuver all the wires and cords, but of course we managed. And when he was placed back into my arms, I had more joy and thankfulness than when I held him for the very first time, after he was born.<br /><br />Later, during the middle of the night, Benjamin struggled some with pain. We were able to manage it with morphine, but in order to get out of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">PICU</span>, he had to be off morphine. I was the only one up there with him, and rather than sleeping, I was watching him sleep. As he started to struggle with some pain, and his blood pressure rose, I asked the nurse if I could hold him (so strange to have to ask permission to hold your own baby!). She kindly told me that sometimes the best thing is for them to just get rest and not to be messed with. She also told me that she was a mom, and knew that sometimes moms just need to hold their baby. I wanted to do what was best for him, so I just loved on him and let him rest. But his blood pressure wasn't going down. The nurse suggested that we go ahead and let me hold him and try to nurse him (another requirement to get out of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">PICU</span>). The second that he was put in my arms, his blood pressure dropped to normal, as did his heart rate. The nurse just smiled, and said, "Well, you were obviously right, and knew just what he needed!" The safety of my arms.<br /><br /><em>Thank you, Heavenly Father, for holding us all in your arms! Thank you for loving us, for protecting us, and for showering your us with your grace and mercy. Once again, I place my children back in your arms, knowing that you alone can keep them safe.</em>Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-66125375467929751172008-07-13T00:12:00.004-05:002008-07-13T00:52:23.439-05:00What to doI started this blog to share the news of our <a href="http://allaboutbabyk.blogspot.com/2006/10/were-pregnant.html">pregnancy with Benjamin</a>. During my rather uneventful pregnancy, I used this blog to share <a href="http://allaboutbabyk.blogspot.com/2007/01/why-im-good-mom.html">little stories</a>, updates, <a href="http://allaboutbabyk.blogspot.com/2006/12/its-boy.html">ultrasound pictures </a>and of course, <a href="http://allaboutbabyk.blogspot.com/2007/03/my-veiw.html">belly pictures</a>!<br /><br />After Benjamin's birth, the blog was used for all those baby pictures... you know the ones... where the baby looks the same since all he does is sleep, but he was wearing different clothes! I almost used the blog as a scrapbook or journal, to record <a href="http://allaboutbabyk.blogspot.com/2007/07/2-months.html">little milestones </a>and <a href="http://allaboutbabyk.blogspot.com/2007/06/brother-and-sister.html">memories </a>I was afraid of forgetting in my sleep deprived state.<br /><br />When Benjamin was about <a href="http://allaboutbabyk.blogspot.com/2007/10/many-faces-of-benjamin.html">five months </a>old, I started thinking about wrapping this blog up, and just posting on our family blog.<br /><br />But then we had that unforgettable <a href="http://krajcafamily.blogspot.com/2007/11/prayer-for-benjamin.html">visit to the doctor</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://krajcafamily.blogspot.com/2007/06/prayers-for-benjamin.html">For the second time</a>, I used a blog to ask prayer for my baby. Rather than cheerful updates and cute pictures, I was posting about head deformities and possible <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">diagnosis's</span> and treatments. I used this blog to write out my thoughts, to <a href="http://allaboutbabyk.blogspot.com/2007/11/praying_16.html">pray</a>, to find comfort in <a href="http://allaboutbabyk.blogspot.com/2007/11/psalm-71.html">God's word</a>. The prayers of the people continued, and every day I heard from someone new, someone who was praying for us.<br /><br />After Benjamin's surgery, I was able to keep all our faithful prayer warriors <a href="http://allaboutbabyk.blogspot.com/2007/12/praise-god-for-his-blessings.html">up to date</a>. Words will never be able to express how thankful I was for the prayers, the e-mails, the comments, the phone calls that we got during our time in Austin. The blog served as a tangible reminder of all those prayers.<br /><br />I continued to use the blog to let people know how Benjamin was doing and progressing. Our prayer has been that Benjamin will one day say the words of David:<br /><br /><em>But as for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more. My mouth will tell of your righteousness, of your salvation all day long, though I know not its measure. I will come and proclaim your mighty acts, O Sovereign LORD; I will proclaim your righteousness, yours alone. Since my youth, O God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds.</em> (Psalm 71)<br /><br />God has done marvelous deeds in Benjamin's life, and in our lives. I prayed that this blog would declare <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">those</span> might deeds, that it would be a place where we could tell of the righteous acts of God.<br /><br />So now what? What should I do with this blog now?<br /><br />I thought about continuing to post until Benjamin was released from the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">neuro</span> surgeon. I thought about making this my final post. But then today I was talking with <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">someone</span> who was going to be able to give a friend this blog as a source of encouragement since her friend's daughter will be having similar surgery soon. God has given me a couple opportunities like this.... opportunities to help and encourage other parents facing the same thing we've been through.<br /><br />So for now, I'll keep posting, and telling of the marvelous acts of God, because there are so many!Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-55500964924541356762008-06-17T14:18:00.006-05:002008-06-17T15:06:49.478-05:00198 days later....<div align="center">(thanks for the title <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Shannie</span>!)<br /></div><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFgTSvM5tpI/AAAAAAAACIA/BU7INMtNESg/s1600-h/100_9500.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5212937781310502546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFgTSvM5tpI/AAAAAAAACIA/BU7INMtNESg/s320/100_9500.JPG" border="0" /></a> before surgery, front (notice how his <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">forehead</span> bulges)<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFgRjxeAVcI/AAAAAAAACH4/FAtoURcIyG0/s1600-h/100_9150.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5212935874953631170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFgRjxeAVcI/AAAAAAAACH4/FAtoURcIyG0/s320/100_9150.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFgRXl3nLUI/AAAAAAAACHw/rCsLQzmy2S4/s1600-h/100_9098.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5212935665681378626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFgRXl3nLUI/AAAAAAAACHw/rCsLQzmy2S4/s320/100_9098.JPG" border="0" /></a> before surgery, top (notice how long his head was)<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFgRM2NlG2I/AAAAAAAACHo/-RKLkWbUPEg/s1600-h/100_9017.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5212935481089923938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFgRM2NlG2I/AAAAAAAACHo/-RKLkWbUPEg/s320/100_9017.JPG" border="0" /></a>before surgery, side (you can really see the way his head bulges in the back)</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>AND NOW...... after 164 days in the helmet.... 192 days since surgery.... 198 since diagnosis.....</strong></span></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5212941404284277474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFgWln1KUuI/AAAAAAAACII/yIQbS3TG5hk/s320/100_2058.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5212941478859350322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFgWp9pPoTI/AAAAAAAACIg/9kqEqgn9HAQ/s320/100_2064.JPG" border="0" /></div></div><br /></div><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5212941459728668962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFgWo2YImSI/AAAAAAAACIY/YUMVxr8E-k4/s320/100_2063.JPG" border="0" />"<strong><em>Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name!</em></strong> Bless the LORD, O my soul, <strong><em>and forget not all his benefits</em></strong>, who forgives all your iniquity, <strong><em>who heals all your diseases</em></strong>, who redeems your life from the pit, <strong><em>who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy</em></strong>, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s." Psalm 103: 1-5</p><p>I literally cannot look at the "before" pictures with out tears. It breaks my heart. And I can't look at the "after" pictures without a huge smile! And the verse above is the verse I keep hearing in my head. I heard it during the tough times, during the good times, and now, I hear it again! God has been so good to us! He has lavished His <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">faithfulness</span>, mercy, and grace on our family. I hope that as you have observed Benjamin's story unfold, that your heart has been pointed to Christ. We are so thankful to all our friends and family who have loved us, supported us, encouraged us, prayed with and for us, watched our older children, brought meals... words will never express our gratitude! Thank you! But most of all, we thank Christ for the mighty act that he has done in our family. We thank Him for healing Benjamin, for restoring him to health. God is good all the time, all the time, God is good!</p>Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-36957156437897750482008-06-15T22:21:00.002-05:002008-06-15T22:28:13.941-05:00So, now what?We are loving life with our helmet graduate! So far, we've been able to avoid any major falls, but all the little falls still have me a little jumpy. The first night without the helmet, Benjamin woke up a couple times, and would only back to sleep while being rocked with his hand resting on his forehead. So sweet! It was like he knew something just wasn't quite the same up there. This morning I asked him where his helmet was, and he rubbed his head looking perplexed.<br /><br />It's been weird to NOT be stared at! No more questions, no more looks... it's odd. But as I said earlier, we are loving it!<br /><br />So, now what? Well, we have an appointment with Dr. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Aronin</span>, the neurosurgeon, late next month. And that's all I know for now. I think I remember hearing at one point that we would need to follow up with her for a year after surgery (every three months or so....) but I'm not positive. As of right now, we're not getting the soft helmet. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">orthotist</span> basically left it up to us, saying that if we wanted to call and talk to Dr. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Arnonin</span> about it, we could. I decided to give it a few days, and see how things played out. Things have played out beautifully, so right now my plan is to just wait and see what Dr. A says next month.<br /><br />I'm going to try to get some before and after pictures up soon. It's unbelievable the change that has taken place! I praise God for everything, but most of all, for his love and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">faithfulness</span>!Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-5335301435190309142008-06-12T15:30:00.005-05:002008-06-12T15:44:13.740-05:00We're DONE!!!<div align="center">We had Benjamin's FINAL helmet appointment today. Everything looked great, and we are DONE, DONE, DONE, DONE!!!! Here's our day in pictures.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGJjOCU9fI/AAAAAAAACDo/6gRDvpeCL8U/s1600-h/100_2025.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211097482000659954" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGJjOCU9fI/AAAAAAAACDo/6gRDvpeCL8U/s320/100_2025.JPG" border="0" /></a><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Snoozin</span>' in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">carseat</span> on the way to Austin.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGJjSuB2wI/AAAAAAAACDw/x7wSiraZu2Y/s1600-h/100_2029.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211097483257699074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGJjSuB2wI/AAAAAAAACDw/x7wSiraZu2Y/s320/100_2029.JPG" border="0" /></a> On 290, on the way Austin.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGJkMgkXQI/AAAAAAAACD4/FzWnELvYzeE/s1600-h/100_2034.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211097498770496770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGJkMgkXQI/AAAAAAAACD4/FzWnELvYzeE/s320/100_2034.JPG" border="0" /></a>In the waiting room.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGJkYxDMgI/AAAAAAAACEA/XiHO6IUxsao/s1600-h/100_2036.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211097502060851714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGJkYxDMgI/AAAAAAAACEA/XiHO6IUxsao/s320/100_2036.JPG" border="0" /></a> Come on Bud!!<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGJkrAp9fI/AAAAAAAACEI/pEAPz1Zn_88/s1600-h/100_2043.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211097506958145010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGJkrAp9fI/AAAAAAAACEI/pEAPz1Zn_88/s320/100_2043.JPG" border="0" /></a> Doing a few <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">measurements</span>. Ben's head is 1 cm wider, 1 cm longer, and 3 cm bigger in <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">circumference</span>.<br /><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGI4XIbrVI/AAAAAAAACDA/A94YIqIEgAE/s1600-h/100_2047.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211096745707810130" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGI4XIbrVI/AAAAAAAACDA/A94YIqIEgAE/s320/100_2047.JPG" border="0" /></a>Benjamin and our <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">orthotist</span>, Bud. Bud said that we were one of his favorite patients, and he was sad to see us go. We have loved working with the people at Hanger!<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGI4rJD1HI/AAAAAAAACDI/pIOmvblaEXM/s1600-h/100_2049.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211096751079150706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGI4rJD1HI/AAAAAAAACDI/pIOmvblaEXM/s320/100_2049.JPG" border="0" /></a> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Outside</span> the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">orthotics</span> office<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGI47TYlLI/AAAAAAAACDQ/gbPs153dp_g/s1600-h/100_2051.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211096755417420978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGI47TYlLI/AAAAAAAACDQ/gbPs153dp_g/s320/100_2051.JPG" border="0" /></a>Let's GO Mom!!<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGI5dEjjyI/AAAAAAAACDY/5m0ekExtv4E/s1600-h/100_2053.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211096764482031394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGI5dEjjyI/AAAAAAAACDY/5m0ekExtv4E/s320/100_2053.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGI5hi9DKI/AAAAAAAACDg/cKD85xBcsxU/s1600-h/100_2055.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211096765683272866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGI5hi9DKI/AAAAAAAACDg/cKD85xBcsxU/s320/100_2055.JPG" border="0" /></a> Daddy and Benjamin outside the Pediatric Specialty Building<br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGIJPjlvqI/AAAAAAAACCY/y7HBPDhXJmI/s1600-h/100_2058.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211095936220380834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGIJPjlvqI/AAAAAAAACCY/y7HBPDhXJmI/s320/100_2058.JPG" border="0" /></a> What a cutie!<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGIJZEwOYI/AAAAAAAACCg/uSJM3QPJ6hQ/s1600-h/100_2066.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211095938775398786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGIJZEwOYI/AAAAAAAACCg/uSJM3QPJ6hQ/s320/100_2066.JPG" border="0" /></a> eating lunch after our appointment<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGIJiAwf7I/AAAAAAAACCo/0IN9kX5sCYc/s1600-h/100_2076.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211095941174558642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGIJiAwf7I/AAAAAAAACCo/0IN9kX5sCYc/s320/100_2076.JPG" border="0" /></a> That way to home<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGIJ05OW1I/AAAAAAAACCw/90IwIA2qHvw/s1600-h/100_2077.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211095946243234642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGIJ05OW1I/AAAAAAAACCw/90IwIA2qHvw/s320/100_2077.JPG" border="0" /></a>Heading home on Hwy 21<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGIKVr7LoI/AAAAAAAACC4/rHA2uQBs-ws/s1600-h/100_2079.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211095955045822082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SFGIKVr7LoI/AAAAAAAACC4/rHA2uQBs-ws/s320/100_2079.JPG" border="0" /></a> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Wohoo</span>! No more helmet!<br /></div></div></div>Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-77714495307274488122008-06-11T06:58:00.004-05:002008-06-11T07:14:07.742-05:00When I see Benjamin.<div>About two weeks ago, Benjamin didn't have his helmet on when Curtis and I took him to lunch. It was very strange NOT being looked at (whether it was because Ben wasn't wearing his helmet, or because we only had one kid, I don't know). The past few months I've grown very accustom to the looks, the questions and everything that has come with the helmet. When people would look at Benjamin and smile, I wanted to tell them, "He's not just your average cute baby! You wouldn't believe his story, and what he's been through!" But I didn't. I just smiled back as Benjamin waved. The whole experience gave me a glimpse at what my life with a helmet graduate will be like.<br /><br />It made me think about the way people have looked at Benjamin, and what they see. When people look at Benjamin I think they see....<br />a helmet.<br />a little boy who has a problem.<br />his big blue eyes that pop when he wears the helmet!<br />something they aren't familiar with.<br />their child, who also had to wear a helmet.<br /><br />We have been very fortunate, and haven't gotten any horribly tacky comments. We have gotten lots of stares, lots of questions, but also lots of smiles and encouragement.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210595966128363202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SE_BbJ0qFsI/AAAAAAAACCI/0bxkL_yXtGM/s320/100_2020.JPG" border="0" /><br />When I look at Benjamin, I see...<br />my beautiful son.<br />his crazy smile that makes me forget about the tough times.<br />his mess of blond hair, that flips out over his ears.<br />a child who has endured a lot for a 12 month old.<br />a testimony to God's faithfulness.<br />evidence of grace.<br />a little boy who is very loved.<br />a little boy who has received more prayers than I will every know.<br /><br />Tomorrow might be the big day! Curtis is coming with Benjamin and I to Austin, and we are hoping and praying that we will be done with the helmet! Please pray for safety, for good news, and peace to rest in God's will (even if that means more helmet time or another helmet).</div>Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-85874854887318045502008-06-05T14:03:00.002-05:002008-06-05T14:08:42.009-05:00gettin' antsyIs it next Thursday yet? I'm getting so very anxious, excited and very ready for our next appointment with the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">orthotist</span>, where hopefully we will get the official "you're done with the helmet!" I'm so ready to be done!<br /><br />Sure, in the big picture, this whole head think will be a minor part of Benjamin's childhood. But right now, it still feels so major! I sat down the other day and figured out that we have been dealing with this in one way or another for over seven months! And that's since we've had a name for it. There were the months of crying, not sleeping, and me knowing <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">something</span> was wrong, but not knowing what, before that too. And I think all that is the main reason I am ready to be done. I'm ready to close that chapter of his life, and move on to the next thing that God has in store for Benjamin and for us.<br /><br />Stay tuned! Maybe the next time I post it will be before and after helmet pictures!Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-89762152327627294802008-05-29T13:38:00.002-05:002008-05-29T13:55:24.638-05:002 weeks!!!Benjamin and I just arrived home from our latest trip to Austin. And we have BIG news!<br /><br />The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">orthotist</span> said that at our next appointment, which is in two weeks, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Benjamin</span> will probably be out of his helmet! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Yay</span>! Of course there is never any <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">guarantee</span> that we'll actually be done in two weeks, but just knowing that we are so close to the end is very exciting!<br /><br />I am still a little concerned over the hole in the top of his head. Though it is much smaller than it was, it is still obviously there, and still a concern for the mommy of a busy, walking everywhere, one year old with two older siblings who like to wrestle with their baby brother. There is a possibility that if the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">neuro</span> surgeon thinks it necessary, Ben would go into another helmet. This helmet is a soft helmet, made of rubber. When I saw it, I thought of the old, leather football helmets. So, we'll see what happens with that. Part of me wants it, just to be on the safe side. The other part of me is ready to be done with any form of head stuff.<br /><br />We are so thankful to see the end! God has been very loving, gracious and faithful to us over the past several months. Last night at our community group, I was thinking over the "hardship" that we have been through, and how God has used it to make me stronger, and to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">exemplify</span> his power and goodness. Our group was talking about God's power to remove our struggles, our weaknesses and our "thorns of the flesh". So often we don't pray expecting our great God to deliver. Yet we are told it <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Eph</span>. 3:<br /><br />"20Now to <strong><em>him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine</em></strong>, according to his power that is at work within us, 21to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen."<br /><br />I prayed that God would spare Benjamin from this deformity. I prayed knowing that He was powerful enough to deliver Benjamin from the road that he's been on, but also trusting that even if he didn't, all things would work for our good. When Benjamin still had to undergo surgery and all these months in the helmet, I didn't doubt God's strength. But what I am now seeing is that God has brought all of us through this to grow us, to make us more dependent on Him, to draw Curtis and I <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">closer</span> together, to remind us of his grace. At the beginning, I thought the mighty thing God could do would be to heal Benjamin of his deformity. I now see that God did immeasurable more than I asked or imagined with the work He has done in me and my family! To Him be the glory forever and ever!Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-60235492471009621092008-05-25T14:47:00.000-05:002008-05-25T14:49:34.699-05:00To make you laugh<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SDnCvHxW_yI/AAAAAAAAB_I/x8UaNW1VbiE/s1600-h/DSC_0965.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204404959199035170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5hnLyVB489w/SDnCvHxW_yI/AAAAAAAAB_I/x8UaNW1VbiE/s320/DSC_0965.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div>Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34647635.post-61597779579159955492008-05-21T05:14:00.002-05:002008-05-21T05:18:42.708-05:00TubesThis morning, Benjamin will be getting tubes put in his ears. We are very positive about how it will help him, and aren't too nervous about the day. One of my main <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">concerns</span> was if he woke up after midnight and we weren't able to give him anything to eat. But, God answered my specific prayers, and Benjamin has been snoozing well all night long. What a testimony to God's love!<br /><br />Please pray that all would go smoothly, that we would be able to come home later this morning and that the older children would be <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">obedient</span> to their babysitter.Kierstynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12811812082522580472noreply@blogger.com2