We're back from Texas y'all!

I don't know where times has gone, I meant to blog before the retreat but things were so busy here I totally spaced it. ANYWAY! We're back and we had an amazing time! I couldn't sleep the night before we left, I still had to pack some things and my mind was racing about me forgetting something and whether traveling with my two monkeys would go well. Everything went well, I have to say, my kids are awesome! They behaved, listened (well, for the most part) and people were very helpful, everywhere but in Dallas. The first day we met some of the families that came early and Nia immediately made friends. She especially loved Ms. Janie's dogs!!! We'll definitely have to get a dog soon....

Isaiah likes Ms. Janie's dogs too!

Evie, a 4 year old stroke survivor, went swimming in the pool that evening and Nia decided to join her, fully clothed! That denim skirt didn't dry until the last day! The next few days went by way too fast! They always do when you have a good time! Nia is now constantly asking about her new friends. While getting a break from Minot was nice, I especially liked meeting other families and talking to the other parents who have been on this journey much longer than us. With Isaiah doing so well physically, I'm asking myself if we're going to see more of the sensory issues and this retreat gave me a great opportunity to learn how to deal with those issues. I also tend to feel guilty almost all the time, guilty about Isaiah doing so well when others are not, guilty about how easy it was for us to get services when other kids who have way more issues don't qualify, guilty for getting a scholarship to the retreat....and the list goes on.... I know none of these things were ever in my hands but I sometimes just can't help it. I expressed those feelings to some of the families and am glad they reminded me that I don't need to feel guilty for said reason. With time I'm sure I'll get better at this. I also really enjoyed listening to the teen and young adult panel. The things they have accomplished and the goals they have set for their lives are truly inspiring and encouraging! I am honored to have met them!

Teen and Young Adult Panel

We also got a chance to take part in two studies, one about adult learning, how our children's diagnosis have affected our own learning. And one for CHASA and what role this organization has played in our lives. A huge one, that is for sure! When we first found out about Isaiah's stroke we had no idea what that meant. With there being limited resources here in Minot, I started doing research online and again found almost nothing on Pediatric Stroke. When I came across CHASA I found THE source. CHASA has been my source of information, comfort, encouragement and support. I am truly thankful for them! Nancy has been on this journey with us since Isaiah was a few months and I thank her from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to answer questions and for being there.

Besides the sessions in which I've learned a lot there was also lots of fun times!

Kandu and his family was there too!

Pictures of some of the kids

Ellie and a slightly cranky Nia

We're ready to have the retreat picture taken

Nia playing in the balloon igloo with Kandu guarding the entrance.

Nia holding Isaiah during the teen and young adult panel

Nia and Jill dancing to "YMCA"

Country!!!

Nia doing the chicken dance with Ms. Janie

Photo booth fun!

We cannot wait for next year to see everyone again!
Love,