The Schnabel's

Panic, Panic, Panic

2012-01-29T23:39:00.000-08:00

Okay so for the last three months I have been away trying to take care of some personal needs, it has really been hell, literally. I've hated it, I've hated who it made me be, I hated seeing my boys suffer because I let this illness get so bad. I honestly never thought in a million, gazillion years I would be the one taken down by a panic disorder. I have been on so many medications, our medicine cabinet looked like a 90 year old lived here. Some of the medications made me so sick, I lost about 25 pounds (it's baaaack though, and it sucks!), I was nauseated ALL the time (people thought I was pregnant, and I had actually WISHED that's what the case was, it was SOO bad). There were times I had to call Aaron in the middle of the store and have him walk me through these attacks (it was horrible!). I've even had to leave a basket full of groceries because an attack had started. Let me just say I have the most AMAZING husband, and boys and family. They might not fully understand what I am going through, but I have a hand to hold through these times.

If I could change the title of the book the "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No good, very bad day", it would be called "Crystal and the terrible, horrible, no good, very bad 3 months". The panic got so bad, I had to rely on others to help take care of my little family, which was SOOOO hard for me to do, that being said my little Brenner's blood sugar has been out of control. Please pray for us to get him under control again. Like I said before I didn't know that panic could seriously debilitate someone this bad. I had no clue who this monster was inside me, and I'm still trying to figure it out. My medication I am on currently, seems like it might be the winner (fingers crossed), but I am still pretty heavily medicated. So yep, that means I have a TON of restrictions, and it sucks rocks!

We have had to miss out on a lot of things due to this stupid disorder, but I'm hoping to see the light at the end of this tunnel and get my butt back out and start running again. I just hope this doesn't affect my littles. I love those boys so much, and I have been SO blessed to have Aaron around. He has had to be the mom and dad, and it kills me. It kills me to have to sit back and watch, but I learned from a really good friend of mine, that these trials and struggles help us get stronger (I'm just worried about what's next -ha, ha). Like I need any more worries, that's what got me here in the first place.

I'm sitting here waiting for time to pass so I can check on my little man. His blood sugars have been sooooo bizarre. Today his blood sugar has been reading HI (which means he's been over 600 for about 6 hours--SCARY), I'm waiting for my two hour mark to check him, so I can sleep and pass him off to Aaron for a couple hours. This little kid worries me, he worries Tanner, and he worries his dad. We just applied for a Diabetes Alert Dog for our Brenner and we are praying and crossing our fingers for one of these awesome dogs, but for right now I'm Brenner's diabetes alert mom. The panic has set in, and it'll probably last until the morning when I know my little guy is okay.

Through all of this, I've learned that medicine is okay to take. I've never been fond of taking medications because I didn't want to be one of those people (ha, ha), but I know that there is a reason for these medications. I still HATE being on medications and can't wait to get back to my "normal", but for the time I'm getting there. I've had an awesome friend that has helped me through a lot of this, and I've had an awesome co-worker/friend that has helped me off the side since right now we are uninsured. I'm telling ya, this has sucked, but we sure have been blessed. It has seriously made our family stronger, prayers will be answered, and one day we will see the light again.

5 years later… we're still smiling

2012-01-18T07:42:00.000-08:00

18, 250 finger pokes

12, 950 insulin injections

6 trips to the Primary Children's ER

2 trips by ambulance

14,600 hours of sleep deprivation

$65,000 in medical bills

Countless times of being yelled at, at restaurants by "educated" people about how I should take care of my son's diabetes.

Keeping this little boy of ours alive…. PRICELESS

5 years ago, our lives changed forever. It was a day of sadness, and a day that we learned we could still live a somewhat normal life. I hate to think of my son as "different" because on the outside he doesn't look different. He doesn't have a broken leg, he doesn't walk silly, he doesn't look different, but he IS different on the inside. He is such a happy kid, and is determined to help educate others (sometimes silently) about juvenile diabetes. He is very disciplined and knows when he can, and when he can't have sugar. What 7 year old turns down sugar?!?

These past 5 years with diabetes haven't been THAT bad, but we haven't liked diabetes. We've always had the motto "Diabetes doesn't have us, we HAVE diabetes!" We try our hardest to make diabetes "nothing" to our little Brenner. It is something, a very big thing, but we don't let our Brenner see the "behind the scenes", he already feels some of the weight.

Today as we celebrate Brenner's 5 year diagnosis, he's requested cupcakes with no frosting. Again, what kid doesn't want frosting? A kid that knows what it feels like to have a high blood sugar. We are taking him bowling, and then to his favorite restaurant (he'll surprise us later, he says -ha, ha). We make this day about him and his diabetes. I know a lot of people may think it's weird, but we don't. This is a new lifestyle this little boy has had to live with since the age of 2. We party because we've made it this far, we party because we are so close to finding a cure for juvenile diabetes, we party because we love this kid.

Happy 5 year Diabetes Anniversary Brenner! We love you!

It's been too long...

2012-01-10T20:43:00.001-08:00

Wow, I just decided to look over my blog andI realized that I hadn't blogged since 2011, and what makes it worse, is the last time was in OCTOBER! Oops!

I'll hurry and try to get what's been "blogging" me down (ha, ha) really quickly, but if it doesn't turn into a really quickly, I'm sorry.

On October 13, just one day after my cute little Brenner's birthday, I found myself in the ER twice. One doctors diagnosis was a TIA (for short, mini-strokes), and another doctors diagnosis was anxiety. Neither one gave me any direction or medication to take, so I thought I was on my way to getting better.

On October 15, Aaron decided to run a half marathon, and he did freaking awesome! He ran 13.1 miles in 2 hours and 56 minutes, not too shabby for running his first half marathon in 20 years. I was so proud of him!

I followed up with a neurologist to see about this possible TIA, so the neurologist ran more tests on me, I kinda felt important for a while (ha, ha). After spending 5 hours in the neurologists office, all my results came back negative for a TIA, but they were still concerned about me. I was put on a TON of restrictions, and I was really bummed, the next week I was supposed to run the Provo Halloween Half Marathon with the hubs, and his family. They (the neurologist) told me that I couldn't, I was beyond bummed. Well guess what, after seeing all my results and such, I was able to complete the marathon with my hubby right next to me. It was

awesome!

Well since the marathon things started to get worse. So I called my awesome friend/co-worker and talked to her about everything that was going on. Her diagnosis was a little different, but not too far from the last diagnosis. I have been dealing with a severe panic disorder. It has been the worst 4 months I have ever had to go through in my life. The worst part was, I had let my anxiety get out of control so bad, that now I was dealing with panic as well as anxiety.

So now I'm the guinea pig for medications to help my panic disorder, and it hasn't been fun. At one time, I really didn't know who I was. I felt helpless, I felt like I was going crazy. I will tell you this though, I've never seen the fear in my boys' eyes like they've had when I have these attacks. They're scared for me, and at the time I couldn't console them. It broke my heart. I'm supposed to be the tough mom that doesn't let her boys see her cry. This made me cry, and it s

till makes me cry, and I cry all the time. Anyways I will post more about this because I have found that A LOT of people are trying to deal with this without medications, and guess what?!? This is why we have medications. I know if it weren't for my FREAKING AWESOME husband and two cute boys, and this awesome friend Martha, I probably wouldn't be here.

I will say this, I have had to step back from a lot of social networking because some of the added stress was from those social networking sites. I HATE drama, and I HATE feeling like I'm back in high school.

Anyways, what has gone on the last part of 2011….

This was our Halloween costume… (ha, ha)

Tanner played flag football this last fall (I know I'm so far behind). He WAS awesome, and had about 35 "tackles"/ flag pulls on other opponents. He was the quickest kid on the team, no joke. As soon as the other team could hike the ball Tanner was already on the quarterback. His team went undefeated and he was so proud of that.

Tanner started Jr. Jazz, and is loving it. He is all over the court trying to get a hold of that ball. He gets a little frustrated because he's supposed to stick with his opponent, but he just really wants to keep the other team from scoring. He plays with a bunch of kids from school and I think he loves playing with them.

Brenner is also playing Jr. Jazz as well. My dad and one of my brothers, Todd are his coaches for his team. His cousin Drew was on the team, but Drew's mom, Courtney (my niece) just graduated with her RN and moved back "home" to Mesquite to their beautiful home, her husband has been taking care of. Anyways, Brenner has loved having my dad and my brother as his coach. Their team is undefeated and Brenner is so proud. Brenner is a basketball player/cheerleader, every time he scores a point he dances down the court. If you've ever watched "Good Luck, Charlie" on the Disney Channel, Brenner gets his moves from the mom (ha, ha). We love that show.

Anyways, we had an awesome Christmas. Santa was good to these boys, and I think their mom and dad spoiled them just a little. We weren't going to, but you can't pass up a good deal. These boys have been asking for a TV for their room (they have never stayed in their room a full night since birth, and I know it's sad, but it didn't bother Aaron or I -ha, ha). Anyways, we bought them a TV… a 32" screen TV. Since then, they have slept in their room all night, checking blood sugars (are killing us- ha, ha). I was a little jealous because their TV is better than ours (ha, ha-I'm kidding, but it really is). They also were surprised to see that we bought them a XBox 360 & Kinect. We had told them that Christmas would be small this year due to Aaron being out of a job, but we had a pretty awesome deal come up and couldn't pass up this XBox. Our Christmas was great, well what I could remember (ha, ha).

We spent New Years this year with my family (different than our past years at the hotel) and it was a blast, just to be with family. We are excited to see what 2012 will bring.

As of yesterday, we ALL are in school now, and still looking for jobs (well Aaron is for right now). Aaron is still pushing on towards his Engineering degree, and he's doing awesome. He's working his butt of, and also looking for a job (we keep praying someone will call). I am going to school as well (I'm trying to do as much as I can online), but I'm gonna get my RN!! I'm excited! Tanner and Brenner are still going to school, yes I know an 8 & 7 year old pretty much don't have a choice. They love school though, and their teachers. We have been so blessed to have such awesome teachers for our boys.

That's all that's really gone on. Due to this "awesome" (not really) diagnosis with me, we've tried to keep a lot of things low key. Hopefully when I'm out of this rut, this blog will be as awesome as ever!

Happy 7th Birthday Brenn!

2011-10-12T00:31:00.001-07:00

Isn't he so stinking cute?!?

I can't believe that my little baby is 7 today. It's a bitter-sweet day for me, I hate seeing my boys grow up, I want them to stay little, but it is SOOO much fun to watch them grow up. As I sit here and think about the last 7 years, there is no way I would go back and change anything. We have had so much fun with this little guy, he means so much to our family. This kid is as tough as nails, and I'm not joking.

As we have been getting ready for Brenner's birthday, I have asked him what he would like to do for his birthday, his reply... "go to school, duh!" He loves school, and he loves his teacher. I had mentioned to Aaron a couple days ago something about bringing Brenner lunch to school. We thought it would be fun to have something different other than the bag lunch he gets everyday. So tonight I asked him what he would like to have for lunch, his reply "Well, could I maybe have school lunch tomorrow?" I was totally expecting something like "Oh Chick-Fil-A", but no, he wants to have school lunch. Having school lunch is a treat for Brenner, since he's been in school we've learned that the carb counts aren't exactly right, so that messes up his blood sugar readings, so instead of making a big deal out of it with the school, we've decided to send Brenner with cold lunch. He never complains about anything, as long as he is with his friends, all is well. I should add, every day Aaron and I go and sit with Brenner at lunch to make sure he eats everything in his sack (he didn't one day, and his blood sugar dropped insanely low), but he doesn't mind having his parents there to accompany him at lunch, even with his friends around. I asked him one day, if it bugged him that I came to lunch every day with him, he shook his head "no" and said "I love it!" Man, I am so dang lucky to have this kid that doesn't mind his parents looking over his shoulder (ha, ha). Tanner all of the sudden has become independent and "too cool" to hug his mom (ha, ha).

I had asked Brenner a couple days ago, what we should do for his birthday. His eyes got really big, and said "how about we invite all our friends and family for cake and ice cream?!?" Yep, another reply I was but wasn't expecting. The kid LOVES Boondocks and I really thought that would be the topic of conversation, but then again I remembered that I was talking to the boy that also LOVES to have his family (Grandmas, Grandpas, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, you get the point) around. He loves to laugh, and he has some pretty awesome cousins and uncles that fulfill that love Brenner has. So after Aaron get's out of school, we're gonna have a party! Wahoo!

As I sit here and think about the life Brenner has had so far, I am so blessed to have such an understanding little boy. Since his diagnosis with diabetes we've had our up's and our downs, and through it all, even when the little guy is in a serious life threatening situation, we can always find a smile on that little guy's face. Tonight I took him to pick out his cake, and as we looked at cakes, I said to him "Well, which one do you like?" He looked at me and asked "Can we get cake without frosting? I just don't want to make my blood sugar crazy." That right there broke my heart, this kid is constantly thinking about his health (which is good, but it makes me sad that he has to think about that). He is really responsible when it comes to his diabetes, he will ask how many carbs are in something, if he can have a treat that will help his blood sugar, or he will defer a treat because of how much sugar is in it. I look at him and think (and say) "Wow, I don't think even I have that kind of discipline." I learn so much from this little boy (and his brother) EVERY day. I am so lucky to have this little boy as part of my life, and I am thankful that Heavenly Father trusted us enough to send him to us.

Brenner, we hope you have a fabulous birthday. We hope you get to do whatever you want to do today. Thanks for being the best little 7 year old Brenner we could have. We LOVE you to the moon and back, more than chocolate, and to infinity and beyond.

Happy Birthday Brenn!

Love,
Dad, Mom and Tanner

Not just a cold...

2011-07-17T02:40:00.000-07:00

About a week ago, Tanner came down with a cough, and just a cough. I thought it was kinda odd that he would get this cough in the middle of the summer, but hey our sometimes we get thrown us off just a tad bit. I mean, life would be so boring if everything worked out just as we planned. Well Tanner's cough persisted, and then he was just really tired. We had cousins sleep over, and he just sat on the couch. He was worn out. I hate seeing my kids sick! We decided to venture on over to the doctors office to get this checked out, not just because it was a cough, but something about a "mother's intuition." Well after hanging out in the office, we found out that this little guy was REALLY working to breathe. This poor kid has asthma, allergies, as well as a cold on top of everything. The poor kid, no wonder why he's been so dang tired. He's a "little" excited to start using his new inhaler.

We were hoping Brenner wouldn't catch this cold, but he has. It started out with just a cough, but within the day, he was beyond tired. I will be doing a post on that in just a few minutes, stay tuned for that one (ha, ha).

Now he has something that we get to carry around in mom's purse, wahoo! (ha, ha).

A HUGE Thank You!

2011-06-30T13:21:00.000-07:00

We just want to take a second, or minute, to tell every one that came out to our

5th Annual Texas Roadhouse Fundraiser…

Thank you so much for making this fundraiser what we hoped it would turn out to be. Because of you and your generosity, we were able to raise over $6,000.00!! We had a fabulous turnout and had some awesome raffle prizes as well as silent auction items. This dinner was extra special to us this year since this was our 5th year holding this dinner/fundraiser for Brenner. If you weren't able to attend and would like to donate to the JDRF on behalf of Brenner, please click here.

Thanks again!

(I will post pictures, as soon as my hard drive in the other computer is replaced.)

You're invited to our 5th annual JDRF fundraising dinner...

2011-06-15T09:46:00.001-07:00

So things have become very hectic here and I just realized I didn't post this a couple weeks ago. Plus Noah's, whom we scheduled this even with withdrew our reservation and "took" another reservation that night, which now there is nothing reserved for them that night (ha,ha... that's another story). Their loss (ha, ha). Anyways here's the invite... we blurred the address out, but if you know where the park is... you're invited!

We have some pretty awesome donations and also some fabulous entertainment. We will have our famous face painter there as well as our awesome friend and his group singing. We will also have a bounce house/slide for the kiddos to play on as well as a great big playground. Nothing beats a Texas Roadhouse dinner, Ice Cream, and all this entertainment for $6! Some of our donations include: a river trip with Western River Expeditions (hotel stay at the Red Cliffs Inn included), a Wii, 14 mp camera, hotel stays, dinners, etc.

If you aren't busy that night, come and hang out. You're guaranteed to have a fabulous time, I promise! If you can't make it, and would like to make a donation to the JDRF on behalf of Brenner, please clickity here.

Hope to see you there!

It's great to be 8!

2011-05-17T18:46:00.001-07:00

Today was a very special day for our very special 8 year old Tanner. Tanner decided to be baptized today, and it was so awesome to see him so excited to follow the example of Jesus Christ.

We had a couple flaws that happened during Tanner's baptism, but it was something we wont ever forget. No, nothing came up out of the water, so no double dunking (ha, ha). Just a major person didn't make it for the baptism… yeah that would be our Bishop. I guess he didn't get the reminder call or something. I felt so bad for him, he has become really close to our family since he was sustained as our Bishop, and you could tell he felt terrible about it. Anyways, we still love him (ha, ha).

Last week as he interviewed with our bishop he sat there eager to answer the questions our bishop had for him. After he was done with the bishops interview, the bishop said to Tanner sarcastically , "Well, you passed! You get to be baptized!" (Which in the LDS church, it's not a test, they just want to make sure you understand baptism, and why we do it, and why we do it at the age of 8. I love this church!). Anyways, Tanner was beyond excited, and couldn't wait to get home. Aaron and I were wondering what the BIG hurry was to hurry and get home. As soon as we walked in the door, we heard Tanner telling his Grandma & Grandpa "So I just had my interview with Bishop Smart, and guess what?!? I passed! I passed, I knew all the answers, so you know what that means?!? I get to get baptized next week!" It was so stinking cute! Everyone he saw, he had to tell them that he "passed!". This kid is so literal, it's hilarious, and I love it!

This day has been a special day for Tanner. We were lucky enough to have family and friends come over for lunch and spend some time with us. After everyone left we experienced a HUGE downpour, it was crazy!! Then we went to a ReAL soccer game! It was such a fun day!

We are so proud of Tanner and the choice he has made. We love you Tanner!

The Invisible Mother… just perfect for Mothers Day!

2011-05-09T09:48:00.000-07:00

Wanted to share this. Love and thanks to all the wonderful women out there who should be celebrated every day!

Invisible Mother

"It all began to make sense – the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I’m on the phone and ask to be taken to the store. Inside I’m thinking, ‘Can’t you see I’m on the phone?’ Obviously, not. No one can see if I’m on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all. I’m invisible. I am the Invisible Mom.

Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this? Some days I’m not a pair of hands; I’m not even a human being. I’m a clock to ask, ‘What time is it?’ I’m a satellite guide to answer, ‘What number is the Disney Channel?’ I’m a car to order, ‘Right around 5:30 please.’ I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated summa cum laude… but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She’s going; she’s going; she is gone!

One night a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England. Janice had just returned from a fabulous trip and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at all the others put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself. I was feeling pretty pathetic when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package and said, “I brought you this.” It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe. I wasn’t exactly sure why she had given it to me until I read her inscription:

“To my Dear Friend, with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees.”

In the days ahead I would read – no, devour- the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life changing truths, after which I could pattern my work:

1. No one can say who built the great cathedrals – we have no record of their names.

2. These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished.

3. They made great sacrifices and expected no credit.

4. The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.

A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built and saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, ‘Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof? No one will ever see it.’ And the workman replied, ‘Because God sees.’

I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, ‘I see you. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you’ve done, no sequin you’ve sewn on, no cupcake you’ve baked is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can’t see right now what it will become.’ As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we’re doing it right. But one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of Invisible Women."

I am so lucky to have a mom that ran me to where ever I needed to be, listened to me when I know she could've been doing something else. Raising 7 kids when it really could've been just 6, and giving me the chance to become part of this family. You see me and my sister that is just older than me is 8 years older than me. I would give my mom a hard time and say "yeah, you should have named me Missy, or Misty… short for mistake! Ha, ha, ha, ha" She would laugh and say you know "you may think that because of how far apart you are from your older siblings, but we wanted you and it just took time to get you here." I never questioned anything else after she said that because I really didn't know what she meant by that, and I really haven't asked. But as I have worked in the OB field and seen many heartbreaks, trials and such. I am just grateful she never gave up on whatever it was.

I am also so grateful for my Grandmas (both of them), and one of them that is still living here on this earth with us. She is 95 years old and will turn 96 later this month. She is AMAZING and when I say that, I really mean that. Friends that have had the chance to meet her, will tell you as well. She mowed her lawn up til about 5 years ago and she may still do it once in a while, she still climbs the ladder, she still drives, she still climbs those 10 stairs each day to do her laundry. She's up at the crack of dawn or before it to make sure the coffee is going for her and a great neighbor. She has the BEST stories about her when she was a child or even a young mama, as well as stories of today. My grandma has the best looking garden around, she plants her veggies by the light of the moon and can tell if it's going to be a hard winter or an early spring. She is a smart woman! A couple years ago, she was struck with Shingles, she has lost some feeling in her arm due to shingles, but she never stops. She makes the best and REAL chicken and dumplings, yep the right southern style. She also broke her hip about 2 years ago, and about 4 months after it breaking she FINALLY had it fixed. She is a stubborn woman and didn't want to be put in a nursing home, but after us coercing her into having sugary and knowing we would be with her all the time she finally gave in and did it, and we think it's given her more time here with us. She lost a daughter 13 years ago to cancer and there isn't a day we don't and she doesn't think about her. It really broke my heart to hear her say "A mom isn't supposed to be bury her child, it's supposed to be the other way around." I know to this day, that my Aunt Wilma is watching over her as well as her kids and grandkids. This Grandma is a tough lady and I am so glad tocall her my Grandma.

Another mom I want to give thanks to is my Mom-in-Law… she is one awesome lady! I know her son (aka my hubby) gave her a run for her life when he was a teenager. He wasn't a good teenager, he was trouble. But because of her patience and knowing that some day he would recognize his poor choices, she still loved him. She is truly one of my heroes, she never gave up on her son. She gave him the courage to beat his addictions and to become a better man. She was there for him, she taught him and helped make him who he is today. She is one awesome grandma, and would do anything for her kids and grandkids. Last year we planned a family trip to Hawaii, and because some couldn't afford to go, she paid their way, so that they could enjoy Hawaii as much as she does. Who does that?!? She would give anything to see a smile on someone's face, we are recipients of her putting smiles on faces. She's a trooper and puts up with our BYU decorations every year. She is constantly serving someone in her family. She gives up so much of her time (I call it "me time") to serve her grandkids, kids and mom. If she isn't working at the hospital (she's a fabulous nurse by the way---she's helped save both my mom and dad), she is working at home. She NEVER stops. She ISN'T that typical MIL that you hear about. She isn't nosey, she doesn't tell us how to raise our kids, and she doesn't judge anyone, and she gives the best advice when needed. When I hear people talk about how "terrible" their MIL is, it makes me feel so lucky to know that I do have the best Mom-in-Law, and I can't even agree with what they're talking about because I don't know what they are talking about. When I grow up I want to be like these three important ladies in my life.

I also have some of the best sisters that some are moms and some are not. They may have kids of their own and they may not, but they do teach my boys and have helped raise them to be the best they can be. They are important to me and they are important to my boys. I am so lucky to have these sisters in my life.

I am also lucky to be the mom of these two boys. There are times when I feel like this invisible mom of this story. How many times have I told my boys "I am on the phone, can't you see this black thing stuck to the side of my head?" (ha, ha). It's hilarious how no one needs my help until I have the phone next to my ear, or I am doing something else. But I love it and I wouldn't change anything about that. There are times when I feel invisible at night when I am up all hours of the night checking on Brenner (and Tanner). Making sure that both kids are okay, and that Brenner's going to make it through the night. Many people ask "Will that ever change?" I just shrug my shoulders and say "I don't know, but if it's gonna keep this kiddo alive I will do this everyday, and I do." I wouldn't change the experiences we've had for anything, and I wouldn't change anything I have for anything. These boys teach me EVERY day and I am so grateful to them and choosing me to be their mom. I love them!

We may not have all the money in the world, but I do have what I want and it's my forever family. I am so lucky!

Happy Mama's Day!

(yesterday)

The Easter Bunny last night… the Tooth Fairy tonight!!

2011-04-24T22:30:00.000-07:00

I love Easter, it's just like Christmas. We celebrate these holidays for one amazing person, and I am so thankful for him. We are trying to teach our kids that getting presents isn't what these two holidays are all about. That is why we have birthdays, right? Well that's what I thought too, but these boy's daddy loves to spoil these boys (don't get me wrong, I love to buy them stuff too -ha, ha). Of course, it is the time for new church clothes, and maybe a little treat. I love these boys and their little innocent minds, and I hope they stay this innocent for a LONG time (ha, ha). They were so WORRIED about seeing the Easter Bunny, they went to bed early. Can we have Santa and the Easter Bunny visit more often? (ha, ha).

Anyways, YES the Easter Bunny came. We had our AWESOME Easter egg hunts today, as well as yesterday. Let me just say our parents (both Aaron's and mine) do the most awesome egg hunts for their grandkids. As I sit here are write this, I am seeing a heaping amount of candy sit in these boy's buckets. A diabetic's dream -ha, ha! These boys have had a blast!

So now on to the Tooth Fairy… on Friday we took the boys to see the movie Rio. If you haven't seen it, or if you're wondering if you should buy it when it comes out on DVD. The answer is Yes! We all loved the movie and it will be added to our DVD collection. Well while at the movie, Brenner was chowing down on some popcorn and noticed his tooth was loose, since that discovery the kiddo has been begging for someone to pull his tooth. I had to explain to him that his tooth wasn't ready to be pulled yet. But still, he begged and begged. Well on Saturday while walking around at our second home aka Costco, I thought Brenner was asleep in the cart until he sat up and asked me if his mouth was bleeding. He opened his mouth and sure enough there was blood, but it seemed to be around this little loose tooth. So me being the animated idiot that I am, got excited and said "It sure is, it's bleeding around your tooth! You're gonna lose your tooth soon!" Then of course I asked him how all the sudden it was so loose, well I didn't know that question would become the floodgate of tears. He began to cry and said "Mom I've been laying here in the cart pushing on it, and now it REALLY hurts!" What the? I started to laugh and had to explain to him that we can't force our teeth to fallout, they'll fall out when their ready, and that was why his tooth was hurting now. Well to make a long story shorter than it could be…

Today after our egg hunt, Brenner was showing everyone his loose tooth. People would say to him, "here let me pull it," he'd open his mouth wanting it to happen, but the other person really didn't want to pull it. Well the last person he showed was his cousin Mark. He asked Mark if he would pull it for him and Mark being the queasy one in the family, said "Sure, go get a paper towel." Mark was hoping Brenner would back out of it, well sure enough within 3o seconds he was back with a paper towel waiting for it to be pulled. Mark was really not wanting to pull his tooth, but he did, and Brenner was so excited!

Brenner keeps walking around saying "Can you really believe it? I am so excited! That was a piece of cake!" -ha, ha. So now tonight we are waiting for the Tooth Fairy… and we are beyond excited!

Outdone again...

2011-04-24T21:39:00.000-07:00

Well we were outdone again by the grandparents for Tanner's birthday. Tanner had been eyeing/begging for this popcorn popping machine at Costco, so I had this fabulous idea that we would get it for him. The only problem was every time I was at Costco, so was Tanner. The kid rarely stays home when I go to the store, and I usually don't have a problem with that, UNLESS I'm trying to pick up surprises (ha, ha).

Anyways, two days before Tanner's birthday I went down to Costco to pick up his glorious popcorn machine, and no joke the entire pallet full was gone. Not one popcorn machine around, NADA! This pallet full of popcorn machines had disappeared within three days of me last seeing them. I began to panic, I didn't have a backup plan. Well to make a long story short, after calling around we found one. Picked it up, picked up the popcorn, the butter and popcorn bags. We were so excited, we knew that Tanner would be so excited, and he was…UNTIL my mom and dad showed up with this black garbage bag full of newspaper, followed by this…

Yep, once again, we were outdone by the grandparents, AGAIN! No big deal, but we just laugh about it because he can beg for something and no matter what, whatever the grandparents (Aaron's or mine) give them it's ALWAYS going to be better than your own gift (ha, ha). So hopefully when he's 16… just kidding! Each grandson that turns 8, gets a BB gun from my mom and dad. So Tanner was pretty stoked when he got his, because he knows how much I don't like guns, but I know that turning 8 is exciting and I knew that this has been something he has been looking forward to. Anyways he has had so much fun with this Red Ryder BB gun. Tanner and Brenner have been out of school for Spring Break and everyday they are out in the garage shooting old Christmas lights. Good times! Yes, we have gone over the rules of guns with these boys, so please don't think we're ignorant with guns. Promise, we wont shoot our eye out!

Tanner had a fabulous birthday, he got some awesome birthday wishes, and what was even better is he got a week off of school for his birthday. Nothing can beat that (ha, ha). Now we're off to planning a baptism. Good times!

Swing batter!

2011-04-21T22:59:00.000-07:00

I found this quote today, and thought it fit perfectly with a new season that hopefully is upon our heels in a couple days. We need to get up and get out on our feet, we need to grow, we need to learn, and we need to take chances. We might fail, but we'll never know how we'll do if we never try. Nobody's perfect.

I also thought it fit perfectly with the conversation we had with Tanner this past week. Tanner is on a player pitch team, and is still loving it, but he has become concerned about striking out. We don't know why all the sudden he is so worried about this but he is. He was so concerned about it at the first part of his last game that he swung at every pitch thrown to him. Some were way out of his reach, but he was bound and determined to hit the ball at which he didn't his first time up. He came off the field sad as could be, and I never thought I'd hear the next thing that would come out of his mouth "Mom, I don't get it. I don't wanna play anymore." I just laughed and said "You know what, I probably would've swung at every pitch too." He didn't think that was funny at all. He was so frustrated about playing baseball now, I'd never seen him frustrated PLAYING baseball. He actually wanted to leave the ball field, the one place he longs for each day. So of course we had a quick chat and it was time to get back on the field. Then it hit me… this is quite a leap from playing in the league he played last year which was machine pitch. In machine pitch the teams own coach is trying their hardest to get the pitch to the plate, so the players can get a hit. Now here we are playing player pitch, and it's completely different. Tanner was still frustrated when he came off the field so I called him over and tried to explain to him that the other team was going to try and get him to strike out, and that they aren't going to pitch to him perfectly. I also reminded him of great ol' Babe Ruth, and how he was the record leader in strike outs, AND he was also the record leader in home runs. Well that quick little talk, did it. He finally got it. So of course his next bat, he waited for his perfect pitch and hit a double. He was so proud of himself and so were we. This was perfect timing for Tanner, it was fun to see that kid of mine out on second base with his cute smile and his confidence beaming. I am so excited for this baseball and soccer season, and to watch these boys of ours grow into their own individual sport.

Now that being said… it's time to get out and make the impossible, possible. Swing that bat, run that race, kick that goal, make that leap. You can do it!

8 years ago today

2011-04-16T22:37:00.000-07:00

I seriously can't believe that I have an 8 year old. Time has gone WAY too fast for this boy of mine to be 8. How can this be? How can he be 8, and I feel like it was just yesterday he was put upon my chest for me to admire? How can he be 8, when I still feel like I'm only 20?

This little (I can say that on here because he NEVER reads this -ha, ha) boy of mine is growing up way too fast. He has been such a fun little man to have as part of our family. He has his quick wit and also his soft little side. He is hilarious to be around, and when he's awake there's never a dull moment. I remember the night before Tanner joined our family, how scared I was, how much responsibility we would have on our hands. I know we haven't done a perfect job, but we're still working at it. I will never forget the ride to the hospital knowing the next time we got in the car it wouldn't be "just the two of us", and I couldn't wait for that. We were beyond excited to greet this little boy of ours.

Fast forward now 8 years, 8 years! I still can't believe it. I am looking at him thinking to myself, how did this time go by so fast?!? Well as I have said many times before, I was lucky to have a job and have a dad that would spend time (aka babysit) my boys, but now as I look back I wish I had stopped working when I had Tanner. I always knew that after having kids, time would no longer be on my side. Time flew by, and I wish I could go back and spend that time with my boys. I'm not saying that I hated working, I just hate that time slipped by so quickly. I am lucky enough now that I get to stay home and watch these boys of mine grow. Tanner is hilarious to be around, he loves to be with family and friends.

Here are some things about Tanner…

Tanner LOVES baseball. If we lived somewhere outside of Utah, I know what we would be doing ALL year long. Tanner was just asked to play on a Saturday league, yeah, his head swelled just a little bit (along with the rest of ours -ha, ha).

Tanner could actually hit a baseball before he could walk.

Tanner loves to serve others, and he loves to do it without others noticing.

Tanner loves to be with his cousins.

Tanner loves to swim. When we went on our vacation to Hawaii, Tanner was ALWAYS the last to get out of the pool or the ocean.

Tanner loves to go on vacation anywhere, but as soon as we get there. He starts to get homesick, and starts missing his dog.

Tanner has a heart for animals. He has begged for another dog since our Quincy passed away last year. Hopefully one day we can surprise him and get him one.

Tanner loves help make dinner. One year he asked me to make him a chef's apron, well instead of making the apron I found a Santa apron at Kohls. I thought "He'll only wear this at Christmas," but he doesn't. He wears this apron whenever he is helping make dinner.

Tanner is an awesome speller.

Tanner is starting to LOVE math. This is a good thing, about a year ago he completely gave up on math. He now has this awesome teacher and math teacher that has helped him like math.

Tanner loves to hear stories. He loves it when my dad or Aaron tell him stories about their childhood.

Tanner LOVES to have his back, arm, leg, face, tummy, "tickled". If your hands aren't busy, he'll make sure he can keep them busy by "tickling" his back.

Tanner loves to eat Mexican food (yep, that's my boy!). I'm telling you, we should be Mexican. He loves to eat salsa.

Tanner doesn't like cheese, and he'll let you know. He'll either let you know by telling you or gagging while looking at it (ha, ha

Anyways these are some things about our Tanner that we love. We are so lucky to have this little guy in our family. We are thankful that Heavenly Father trusted us enough to take care of his children.

Tanner we hope you have a super birthday! Thanks for choosing us to be your parents! We Love You!

Where have we been? I'll tell ya!

2011-04-07T16:02:00.001-07:00

Wow, it's already April! Yep, I just realized that I didn't post one time in March. Wow, terrible blogger award goes to me! It has been so insanely crazy here and I wish I could go back to the start of March, but I can't so I wont (ha, ha).

We are getting ready for a baptism sometime, yep, my little Tanner will turn 8 this coming Saturday (the 16th). He is such a fun kid, but I'm not ready for him to grow up. A post is coming soon!

My little nephew, Drew, was just diagnosed with Epilepsy. Watching my niece and her family deal with this new diagnosis, broke my heart. It sent me back to the day Brenner was diagnosed. We are lucky that we now know what is going on with our little Drew. It may suck with having a diagnosis, but we're pretty lucky that we get to keep these boys and that medications can help these kiddos. Soon I will share a story that I was given when Brenner was diagnosed, I have read it a couple times on here and I love it. Last week while we were dealing with Brenner and his long drawn out sickness (he's still trying to recuperate), I was reminded of how lucky we are that we get to take care of God's children.

Anyways here are a couple things we have been up to and keeping us busy...

Spring is in the air!

2011-04-07T15:18:00.001-07:00

Well it's official, Mother Nature has been ticked off, but we don't know who or what ticked her off. As I sit here "blogging" I'm looking out the window thinking "Snow, really? In April?"

Anyways, a couple weeks ago Tanner had his tryouts for baseball. It was fun to watch him tryout, but it also made me sad that we are now at the "competing" part of baseball. I hate it! I want him to stay little, but it's so fun to watch him play now that he's growing. This year he starting playing in player pitch. So of course when you get to player pitch, you have to try out. So tryouts were on a Saturday morning, and the kid was awake two hours before tryouts! WTH! So when we arrived to tryouts all the coaches were watching for the kids to arrive. Well when Tanner walked in, the coaches all started writing stuff down about him (ha, ha). We had two coaches following us around the entire time (it was really funny!). Tanner did really well at tryouts and was really proud of how he did. The next day we got an e-mail, we are on the Cubs! He is beyond excited and so am I. I have been a Cubs fan since I was in 3rd grade (ha, ha)! He started practice last week, and they are wanting Tanner to start practicing pitching because of how strong his arm is. It really makes me nervous, really, really nervous! He is excited but I am a mom and I worry about him stressing himself out. So we'll see what happens.

Brenner started soccer two weeks ago, and is loving it. He did have to miss soccer last week due to his illness, but can't wait to get back out on the field. It is so fun to watch Brenner get into the action. The first game the kiddo almost had 5 goals, but there was a kid on the other team (he's WAY too old for this age division), would come up and knock Brenner over as he was getting ready to shoot the ball into the goal. I thought after the 3rd time, Brenner was going to take him out. Luckily his emotions didn't get the best of him until after the game. Anyways it's so fun watching these boys play their sport.

We can't wait for Spring to FINALLY arrive and finally be able to be outside without sweatshirts, blankets and umbrellas.

We decided to check out Primary Children's ER… again

2011-04-07T15:13:00.001-07:00

Well this last week has been a blur, well kind of. We have had so many "bugs" visit this house the last month, but the last bug that visited has stayed way too long.

(Brenner and Tanner waiting for the "O.K" to go home--poor kiddo!)

It all started the start of March with Tanner coming down with Strep throat, then Pneumonia, then Strep again. In this midst of this, Brenner would get a cough but that was about it, nothing else. Every time we'd get over something, I'd wipe my forehead with relief because Brenner was still healthy. Yeah, he'd have a day or two when he didn't feel good, but nothing we couldn't take care of at home.

Well last week, it finally hit Brenner. He was getting ready for school, putting his shirt on when all the sudden he started complaining about his tummy hurting. I asked him if he wanted to go to school and he shook his head no. When Brenner says he doesn't want to go to school, you know he isn't feeling well. He has this awesome teacher that makes school so fun. Anyways, I thought I had everything under control. Brenner's only visible symptoms was a fever, but when I checked out the other things you need to with a diabetic, I knew he'd require more attention than that of just a fever.

When a diabetic is sick, there are so many things you have to watch like their ketones. The reason why you need to check their ketones is to let you know how dehydrated they are and if they are entering DKA, aka Diabetic Ketoacidosis. Huge word, I know. It measures the level of acid in their bloodstream. If it gets to high it can send them into DKA, or Diabetic shock. It can get scary. Another thing we have to stay on top of is his blood glucose readings, if his sugar is too high it will start spilling into his urine and that can dehydrate him and then that will also send his ketones through the roof. Well Thursday I had this kid under control, I thought. All he did was sleep on the couch, complain when I would make him drink water, and sleep. I stayed on top of this kid like stink on skunk (ha, ha).

(Brenner's awesome IV wrap)

Well Friday rolled around, and it wasn't so good. By 10 am, I was calling the hubby to come home so that someone could pick Tanner up from school while I was at the dr with Brenner. Within minutes we found out Brenner had Influenza A, Respiratory Infection and Strep. Good times!! After finding this all out the dr was trying to figure out what would be next admission to the ICU or just fluids. Well after begging and pleading, Brenner got fluids and by 3 am, we were on our way back home. The poor kid has been so sick, all he has done is lay around, he will get a burst of energy, but within minutes he's back to sleep.

He has been out of school for the past week and we're all going stir crazy! Yesterday I finally let him come to the store with me. Of course he wore his mask, and let me tell you he is the cutest most bravest kid to go out with a mask. While we were at the store, people were staring at him. He turned to me and said "Mom, why are they staring? Haven't they seen a mask like this before?" I just laughed and said "I guess they haven't, but now they have." We both laughed about it, then he said to me "Well I could decide not to wear it, and then they'd get sick. I don't think they'd like it, but we could see ha, ha, ha, ha." He was so willing to wear this mask wherever if it meant he could leave the house. He has been so good to wear this mask so no one else gets sick. He's missing his friends and being at school with his brother. He can't wait to get back there. Yesterday, his teacher and classmates called and left him a message… let me just tell you that message brought the hugest smile to his face. I hadn't seen that smile for a while.

Anyways he's been a trooper, and we're still alive! He can't wait for school and I might miss him a little bit (ha, ha, but seriously!).

The Jimmer...

2011-04-07T15:11:00.002-07:00

I know this is after the fact, but my boys are HUGE Jimmer Fredette fans, AND this was before all his hype! They have loved watching THE Jimmer play, and they were so sad to see his season come to an end. We're now just hoping the Jazz pick him up!

For now we're all learning how to Jimmer!

This happened...

2011-04-07T15:11:00.001-07:00

My nephew Davey and his beautiful fiance announced they are getting married! We are beyond excited to have Angela in our family. He asked her to marry him on the baseball diamond… yep a place they'll be spending a lot of time at. Luckily she loves baseball, basketball, and football, she's a perfect fit into the Quinn family. Brenner and Tanner love her (and so do we), so that's all that matters right?!? June 3rd is the date, we're so excited!

I need to start getting my butt in gear, so when I see a picture of me, I don't throw up. I actually started a new thing, but due to the overwhelming busyness (is that a word?!), I'm starting back up on Monday. Yay!

Making this…

2011-04-07T15:10:00.003-07:00

Tanner requested a blanket for his birthday (along with A LOT of other things), this has been so fun to make for him. I have really enjoyed making it. It has been fun taking Tanner to the fabric store and picking out fabric with him. He hasn't seen it yet, I'm trying to let him think that it wont be done for his birthday, but it is!! I really hope he loves it because I sure do! I can't wait to see his face when he opens this! Anyways, yep I'm keeping busy!

Painting…I hate Painting!

2011-04-07T15:10:00.001-07:00

We are remodeling downstairs and it has been a pain in the ---- well you know what. It all had been going so smooth until we moved to the last room to paint. That room has been a room from---, well you know what (ha, ha).

All the rooms were different colors, and since paint had been pulled of the walls when pictures were removed we decided that if we were going to have to patch up walls, that we would change the color and keep all the rooms the same color. One room was painted red & white, another room was painted lime green and electric blue, and the other room was brown with green flowers. Anyways to make a long story as short as I can, the blue and green room gave me a run. Nope, not the red and white room, the blue and green room. After going to two different paint stores and spending over $150 on this ONE room, it's done for now. I say for now because I don't even want to think about doing anything to this room for now. I have other things I need to worry about... like finishing a blanket for Tanner's birthday (it's so cute!), planning Tanner's baptism, and getting a child better. Good times!

Anyways when these rooms are done, we are going to love them. Can't wait to show you the FINAL!

We are looking for a corner entertainment stand, of course we don't want to spend and arm and leg. We spent that on a bedroom instead (ha, ha). If you have any suggestions, I would love it!

We are also wanting to paint the boys' beds, of course it's not working the way I want it to. If you have any suggestions, I would love that too!

Oh yeah, does anyone know how to reupholster a couch? Anyone have any ideas?

See I'm keeping busy (ha, ha).

Happy 70th Birthday Dad!

2011-02-27T14:48:00.003-08:00

I know I probably wont have time to get on here and blog tomorrow, I really don't have that time to do it when it's just a "normal" day (ha, ha). Anyways, I am lucky enough to share birthdays with my dad (poor guy!). I just wanted to take a minute and tell my dad how much I love and appreciate him. He is seriously the best dad and grandpa ever!

Here are some things about my dad that I love…

He puts up with me and my family all the time (Thanks so much dad!)

My dad is a complete jokester and can really throw someone off guard if they don't know my dad. My mom tries to cover for him (when people don't know if he's serious or not), and we all just laugh because everyone he teases KNOWS he's kidding!

My dad loves to be around his kids and grandkids, I know people think I'm kidding when I say this but if my dad could go back 26 years ago (when they built their current house), he would have bought the entire circle and had his kids living as close as he could get them to. When my dad was little he was around family and friends all the time, and has wanted to keep it that way. Because of him and my mom's patience, we are so lucky to be such a close family because of him.

My dad loves to serve anyone he can, he has taught us all to serve others. My dad's example of service has brought our family many blessings. Luckily my boys are starting to catch the service bug, and I hope that it continues. I know a lot of you would think we were crazy, but my dad loves to make everyone's lunches in the morning, no joke! There isn't a day that goes by that Aaron doesn't have a lunch ready for him to take in the morning. I have gotten up to make him lunch and my dad has already beaten me to it. I'm sure people will laugh about this, but I don't care. He loves to know that people aren't going to starve. Another thing my dad loves to do is make sure people can get to where they need to be. About 10 years ago, my mom bought my dad a truck so that she could have her car for work and he would have his truck to run around the town in. Well in those last ten years I think my dad has used his truck a total of maybe 2 years. Serious. When he hears that a family member needs his truck he will lend his truck until they no longer need it. Who does that? Yep, my dad.

Another thing about my dad is he is a great story teller, sometimes we really don't know if it's an actual childhood story, or if it's his own made up story (ha, ha). He is a great storyteller and all of us love it. Some of the stories I will never forget are about his childhood years growing up in the coal yard knowing they were the poorest family, but his mom would never let them know they were so poor. Another story is about when he was in the Navy… ask him about those Navy stories sometimes… you'll love them. They might not be true, but he'll have you laughing (ha, ha). He also loves to read short stories especially at Christmas time (the ones people send into the newspaper), you can always tell if it's a touching story because you will see him with a box of kleenex wiping his eyes as he reads it, and he will make sure you read it as well. That is another thing about my dad, he isn't afraid to show his emotions, and I love it!

My dad is the Best Grandpa around. He loves to be around family whenever he can, during the baseball season you can always find him at one of the baseball parks watching one of his grandsons playing baseball. You can find him watching a Lacrosse game, or watching a Jr. Jazz basketball game. Whatever sport it is, if his grandkid is playing and he knows about it he'll be there. You can count on him.

When I was little (yes just last week -ha, ha), my dad was very sick. I can't remember how many times we spent celebrating our birthdays in a hospital room, but as long as I was with my dad, I was happy. So 10 years ago two weeks before Aaron and I would get married my dad was admitted back into the hospital. I know people are wondering if I'm only 21 now, I must've been 11 when I got married?!? Well back then it was the cool thing to do (ha, ha). Anyways two days before our wedding, we were hoping my dad was going to be able to be at our wedding. We EVEN talked about having our wedding at the hospital so my dad could be there. My dad insisted that he'd be there, and it wasn't going to be at the hospital. Well sure enough, the day of our wedding, we got a call that my dad would be able to get out of the hospital long enough to walk me down the isle and spend some time there. I was beyond excited! The reason why I tell you this is my dad isn't fond of the hospital. He HATES needles, and he hates the sight of blood. Well when Brenner was diagnosed with diabetes, I sat up in the Forever Young room up at Primary Children's Medical Center thinking about everything. Then it hit me, I would have to quit working. My dad had watched our boys while I worked part time in the OB office and now with this new diagnosis, I KNEW he wasn't going to be able to take care of Brenner. Well after calling work to tell them what had gone on and what I'd be doing, my dad showed up to the hospital, notebook in hand and ready to learn. I asked him what he was doing and he said "I'm here ready to learn how to take care of this boy, you're not getting these boys back that easy. Ha, ha, ha." Sure enough he did it, he learned how to take care of Brenner, he would give him his insulin shots and he is really the only one that knows how to take care of Brenner. Yes even after the fear of needles, he was giving them to Brenner. He loves each and every one of his grandkids and will do whatever he needs to, so that they are taken care of. He's awesome!

Well there's just a little bit about my dad, he is the best dad a girl could ever have. The best grandpa to my two little boys, and the best husband to my mom.

I'm so lucky to get to share my birthday with my daddy!

Happy 70th Birthday Dad, We Love You!

Our Marine & Our Soldier...

2011-02-08T13:26:00.001-08:00

I just wanted to take a minute and tell my nephew, Braden how proud we are of him. He has chosen to serve our country and will leave for boot camp in a week. He has enlisted with the Marines and can't wait to get out and get to work. I think he is eager to do this, due to his wife, Jayme's willingness as well to serve our country. Jayme is currently in Iraq, or as she would call it, Hell. We are so proud of these two, and we are so thankful to them and many others that are willing to put their lives on the line so that we can live here in this country and be free.

Good luck Braden, we'll miss you and can't wait to see you in May!

*We just found out that Jayme will be returning home in June and we can't wait for her safe arrival back on US ground.

(Thanks for the picture Todd, I hope you don't mind, but I had to borrow it)

Happy 4th Diabetes Year!

2011-01-18T10:46:00.001-08:00

I know, I know it sounds so weird to hear a person say "Happy 4th Diabetes Year!" but every year since Brenner's diagnosis we've decided that instead of having a pity party we thought we'd make a happy party out of it. So we've baked a cake, a banana cake, it's one of Brenner's favorite cake, and we are going to have one of Brenner's favorite restaurants Noodles! We figure this is the one day that we are going to show diabetes who's boss (we try to show who's boss everyday, but today we're gonna make sure we prove it!) and let Brenner have his cake and eat it too along with a butt load of insulin -ha, ha.

Since Brenner's diagnosis we've seen the good, the bad, and the ugly!

The Ugly (I'm gonna try to end this post on a good note!)….

Luckily we haven't seen what I would define as ugly too much. In the last 4 years we have experienced one hypoglycemic seizure as well as the added bonus, an ambulance ride to Primary Children's Hospital. That was the scariest day of our lives, we felt so helpless watching our little guy lay on the floor so lifeless. Luckily we have an awesome neighbor that came to our rescue and calmed us all down before the paramedics arrived. Thanks Mike! Brenner turned out fine, but to this day I will never forget the words that came out of the Paramedic and Doctor's mouths when we arrived at the hospital. They told us if we hadn't fallen asleep in the boys' rooms, we would have been dealing with a tragedy. I'm so glad that we fell asleep that night on the floor of their room. I know our Heavenly Father watches closely over these two boys, that's exactly why we never got up to go sleep in our room.

The Bad…

Extremely LOW blood sugar readings, extreme high blood sugar readings, severe insulin sensitivity -it's amazing what a 1/4 unit of insulin can do to this little boy, ketones, the flu, fevers, high A1C levels, hospital admissions, etc. As you can imagine, life can be hard for our little Brenner, but we try our hardest to make it seem like the easiest life we can live. We should anyways. We could be dealing with an illness that is untreatable. Instead of having a babysitter come and watch our kids while we go out, we have decided that it's a lot easier on us to take our boys with us. I know a lot of you think we are crazy, but after seeing how fast B's blood sugar can drop, it scares us, and leaves us worrying the entire time we are gone. Believe me, we've tried to do this, and Aaron and I find ourselves worrying the entire time. It's no fun! One day we will venture out and do something just the two of us, but we both feel like right now isn't the time to do that. We have been judged numerous times while out on family outings and it kills me how judgmental people are. I have been asked numerous times why one child can have any kind of soda pop, but the other has one choice, and that is diet. We have decided to answer, with this "Well if you had more diet choices, he would have a better selection, but because he's diabetic, he can either have a diet coke/pepsi, or water." That usually let's people know we aren't favoring one child more than the other, we're not doing this because we think our child is fat. We do this so because we are trying to take care of our child, because we care. We have also been told that if we would have done something different when our child was younger he wouldn't have this. How much younger can a child be? I didn't know that milk could cause such a thing. They must not hear about babies that are born with juvenile diabetes. We have also heard the comment, he must've been a BIG baby when he was born. Umm, nope! He wasn't, he weighed 6 lbs. If that was the cause I should have this, I was 10 lbs. 13 oz. almost 11 pounds. He has never been a big kid, but thank you. A lot of people think that Juvenile Diabetes is caused by obesity and is preventable. Does it look like my 6 year old has ever had a weight problem? For those of you that don't know, Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are totally different. If I could cure him by changing his calorie intake and diet, I would trust me. Just make sure you know your facts before you speak….Ricki Lake!

I can't wait till my little guy can feel like he's just like one of his friends. Earlier this year we had an incident that broke our hearts. If you would like to read about that click here.

The Good…

We get to have our son around. Even though we have our bad days, we still get to be with our Brenner. This illness is a treatable illness, it could be so much worse. We can't wait for a cure for diabetes, but things could be worse. I remember waiting for Brenner to be admitted to the hospital, and I was bawling my eyes out, I remember turning around and seeing a family pulling their child around in a wagon. This child wasn't older than 3, and this child and his family were battling cancer. Right then and there I decided that we could have it so much worse. We were lucky enough to be able to leave the hospital in three days, but that child wouldn't know when he would be going home if at all. It was while we sat in the Forever Young room watching Brenner play that we decided that we were going to educate ourselves, and we would do everything in our power to show this illness that we were the boss.

We wouldn't change a thing about what changed our lives 4 years ago, we have met so many awesome people and have become friends with so many others that are dealing with the same thing we are. We have had the chance to meet basketball stars, the Jonas Brothers, as well as senators & legislators.

I can't believe it's been 4 years, I still can't fathom that Brenner is 6, but we are still hunting for that cure. 'Til then every year on January 18th, we will celebrate this darn diagnosis. We have started our donation requests for our event this year. We aren't sure when it will be (probably in June), but we are thinking of holding a different type of event. Rest assured Texas Roadhouse will be there, along with AWESOME donations, and hopefully a special guess (cross your fingers!)

Happy 4th Diabetes Day Brenner! You are such a strong little guy, we are so happy that you are part of our family. We wouldn't change a thing!

We love you to the moon and back!

Dad, Mom & Tanner

Off to a new start! Happy 2011!

2011-01-01T21:27:00.000-08:00

I can't figure out where lastyear went! I'm still looking for 2010 because I swear we just welcomed that year in, but for some odd reason I'm hearing that we are now in 2011. So weird.

Okay so our boys are still trying to figure out how yesterday we were in 2010, and now while they were awake how all the sudden we're in year 2011. I would give anything to be as innocent as they are. Maybe I have sheltered them a little much, but I think I've so that I can feel better knowing that my boys are still little boys (ha, ha).

A couple years ago we decided that we wanted to stay at a hotel on New Years Eve, our boys love to swim and since it can be a little cold on New Years we decided that a hotel is a perfect place to stay.Easy entertainment, we all sleep so well (after the swimming, and staying up SO late), and we usually get fed really well at breakfast.

So of course this year wedecided to keep the New Years hotel theme alive. It's pretty sad that when we drive past this certain hotel (Best Western CottonTree Inn) the boys refer to it as "our hotel", wellwe booked our hotel a couple weeks ago.Well since the boys overheard our plans, they have asked EVERYday if it was New Years Eve! We actually had to remind them that we had to celebrate Christmas before New Years. I think the worst part about this was they heard about this probably on the 2nd day of being out of school and they have been out for 2 weeks! Don't get me wrong, I love having my boys home, BUT I don't like being asked the same questionover and over and over and over!

Well we arrived at the hotel, found our room, had to change rooms due to a guest smoking in it prior to our arrival (just wanted to let you know... don't think about smoking in a non-smoking hotel room, they'll charge you an additional $200 to clean it). Before we could get settled in, our boys were in their swimsuits! We decided to let them swim for a while and then we'd go to dinner. Aaron and I had planned to take the boys to dinner somewhere nice (this never happens), and then we would go up town. Well the boys weren't too happy about those plans, all they wanted to do was swim. So we dropped those plans and decided to have Little Caesars Pizza (really?), and play in the pool. It all worked out just fine. Aaron's mom rented a hotel room and invited the other grandkids to come and stay as well. So we had a huge party! Aaron's family had decided to go downtown to First Night, and the boys didn't want to have anything to do with going anywhere but swimming. So after a couple hours of swimming we went back to our room and played a hilarious game called Quelf. If you haven't played it or are thinking of buying this game, do! It is so much fun, even with little kids.

Well as midnight arrived we stood outside honked the jeep horn, set off some fireworks, and let the boys use their air horns. They loved it. We had promised our boys that if they were up at midnight, we would let them swim. Well lo and behold they held us to our words and we headed down to the pool at 12:30. We swam and swam and swam. We thought for sure after going to bed around 3:00 that they would sleep in for a little bit, boy were we wrong (ha, ha). They were up at the crack of dawn, ready to go down to the lobby for breakfast and swimming.

I was sad to see 2010 go because that means we ALL are getting older, I HATE getting older. It also meant that we said goodbye to our little Primary class last week. We loved having these little kids around us, they are so darn innocent, and tell you exactly what's on their minds. We also had Brenner in our class. I loved that! I loved knowing that he was ok and that if something went wrong we were right there to help him. There were a couple times we caught his sugar just in time before things could've been worse for us. I know he is going to be in good hands with his new Primary teachers, they're pretty awesome! He can't wait!

What happened in 2010?

Aaron won a contest at work that allowed his branch a catered lunch as well as 2 extra paid vacation days, plus 4 extra hours for himself!!

We held our annual Texas Roadhouse dinner for Brenner's JDRF walk... we raised just over $5,000!

We had the chance to visit St. George for Great Grandma Schnabel's 80th birthday!

Tanner and Brenner had a fabulous baseball season, we can't wait for baseball to start back up!

Brenner was our All-Star in Soccer!

Tanner is an All-Star Jr. Jazz player!

Tanner got an ACTUAL Presidential Physical Fitness award. I think that's pretty cool since the only one I really cared about was the Sit and Reach (ha, ha). I HATED pull-ups, they're uncomfortable (Bahahahaha!)

Our other Great Grandma McCray turned 94, each year it's a party because we aren't sure how much longer we get to be with her.

We welcomed home 2 missionaries. One that returned in January, he served in the Kennewick, Washington Mission. Another that just returned in November from the Lima Peru North Mission. It's so fun to have missionaries come home, but I CAN wait to send mine out.

We also said goodbye for now to our soldier Jayme, she is serving our country while in Iraq. She is doing good (well as good as it can get in Iraq), but can't wait to get home. Please keep Jayme in your prayers! We can't wait to see her!

Family trip to Hawaii (yes I'm still figuring out PS, so I can actually post pictures in a collage than in single form--someone wanna teach me?!?)

Brenner started Kindergarten

Tanner started 2nd Grade

Aaron finished his first year of school!

We're still alive, and only made 2 hospital visits!

There are so many things, but I'll just keep the list little (ha, ha).

Things we're looking forward to in 2011...

School getting out! Yes I know, so weird that I love having my boys home, but I love it!

Tanner gets baptized this year. This makes me so sad (and happy too!), I can't believe how fast this little guy has grown up. I'm still kicking myself for working after I had him, he's grown up way too fast. Plus I must've been like 13 or 14 when I had him because I'm going to be what... 22 this year.

Tanner's Jr. Jazz games!

Baseball!

Our soldier coming home!

Another trip to the tropical island (we hope!)

Another year of employment with an AWESOME company (I'm not exaggerating when I say AWESOME! We're praying that all stays the same---we're crossing our fingers)

Another year of JDRF fundraising!

Our 10 year anniversary! Holy Cow! I better start planning!

My mom & dad's 50th wedding anniversary!

….and many more things!

Happy 2011, we can't wait to see what's in store for us!

Bring it on!

We weren't on the Naughty list!! (Oh yeah, Merry Christmas!)

2010-12-27T13:53:00.000-08:00

Well another year has come and gone and we weren't on the Naughty List! We had such a fabulous Christmas, and we hope you did too! I LOVE having little innocent ones around at Christmas time, it makes the meaning of Christmas so much more. We all got what we wanted, so I think that was Santa's way of telling us that we did a good job.

Tanner had asked for Santa to bring him Moon Shoes, and an Electric Scooter (and 16 other items -ha, ha). So we thought we would let the big man bring the moon shoes, he's not gonna get the credit for the Scooter (ha, ha). Tanner was so excited to see those two things he had asked for under the tree.

Brenner was so easy going, it was hard for us to find something for him. So I'm pretty sure Santa had a hard time too. Brenner had asked for a bike and also a Tech Deck Ramp (this kid is into skateboards like crazy!). So we decided we'd make it easy for Santa, so Brenner got a tech deck ramp from Santa, and a bike from Mom and Dad. Well it turns out we should have bought him an electric scooter of his own as well (ha, ha). He does love his bike, BUT he really likes Tanner's scooter (ha, ha).

Aaron got his wish and finally got an engine light diagnostic computer. He was so excited! I really didn't think something like that would be so exciting. I'm just hoping he doesn't have to use that on our cars (ha, ha).

I also got what I had been wanting, a pair of jeans that were the size I have been waiting to wear. I'm still losing, but it was so nice to put on a pair of jeans that I had been wanting to wear. The next goal is to be two sizes smaller for my birthday. Then the REAL expensive jeans are mine, just one pair (ha, ha).

Our Christmas was kind of done in September when we went to Hawaii. We loved every second of it and splurged on things we would never would have done up here. So we considered Hawaii as our (Aaron's and mine) Christmas. Plus it's always fun to see the magic of Christmas through the eyes of a child, and we sure did.

Now I'm just sad to see that another year has come and gone. That means we all are going to be a year older (I'm not too fond of that) before next Christmas. Hopefully we'll still have magic of Christmas around again.

Hope you all had a Merry Christmas!

and the Terrible Blogger Award goes to.... ME!!

2010-12-23T20:14:00.000-08:00

So yep, worlds worst blogger here again... just thought I'd reaffirm that I AM THE WORLD WORST BLOGGER! This season has beenreally jam packed, and I don't even know where to start. I feel like I have been living in a bubble, and that bubble wasn't cool at all.

Aaron has been in school, and really hated this last semester. He spent A LOT of time at the dining room table doing homework, andI think the boys thought that Aaron and this table had some kind of connection (ha, ha). We were so glad to see the week of finals come and go (the table has only been used for dinner since finalshave passed, it's been great!).It's been so nice to see Aaron a little bit more, and not sitting at that dreaded table.

The boys have been busy getting ready for Christmas, and trying really hard not to be put on the "naughty" list. Buddy (our elf) made his appearance shortly after Thanksgiving, and he spent a lot of time, moving around.Buddy wanted to make it known that he was watching, and so he would move all over the house when no one was looking. The boys have really enjoyed having Buddy with us this last month. I think I willmiss him a lot, he was my little helper. I really don't think we had any arguments about homework, cleaning up. All I had to do was remind the boys about Buddy.

The boys had their Christmas list written before Thanksgiving, and let me tell you. I wish I had it as easy as my mom did (just kidding, mom!). Tanner had 18, yes 18 items on his list! I had to refrain from laughing, I think this kid thought I had money coming out my ears. Brenner on the other hand had a list with4 items on it. I was so glad to see a shorter list coming (ha, ha). I had to remind the boys that Santa only picks one item from that list. Tanner was a little disappointed to hear that, but didn't have any specific item he REALLY wanted. So I'm sure that made it a little easier on Santa, and also his mom and dad (ha, ha).

The boys got out of school on the 18th and I have loved having them home, although it would probably would've been better IF I would have had all my shopping done. I'm the worlds worst procrastinator as well! So I have decided that next year, I'm going to be done shopping the first week in December. So we'll see about that! Maybe that will be my New Years Resolution... we'll see if I CAN keep that!

We've had a blast having Aaron home. We actually go and do stuff that we haven't been able to to in a LOOOONNNG time.

Here's a recap of December….

We were able to go to the Festivalof Trees and seeall the awesome trees. Every year we go the boys BEG us to buy a tree, well this year instead of doing our yearly tradition, we honestly considered buying a tree. Well the auction happened the night of Aaron's last final, so that was out. We decided that if there were any trees that hadn't been sold we'd pick our favorite ones and then vote. Well there were a couple trees that weren't taken so we decided to sit at the table and vote. Well the tree that we all wanted, was SOLD! Sold within the hour that we had walked by it. We were so bummed! Anyways tomake a long story short, we came home WITHOUT a tree. So we've decided that this next year we are doing a BIG tree and we're looking for ideas. Why do we want to do a tree? We have kept this quiet because we love to be anonymous, andnot make a big deal of it, but I'll tell you just a little bit. Well the last couple years we have gone up to Primary Children's and we look for a family or person that we can help out either with a meal, or whatever theyare in need of. Well this last year we were thinking about how many people can't afford to pay their hospital bills. If it weren't for our insurance, we'd be in the same predicament. So after walking through the trees this year, we've decided we're gonna go BIG or go home, meaning we're doing a BIG tree in honor of our little Brenner. Like I said, we aren't sure what we will do, but we will take any ideas.

We also got our very first manger scene, and I was so excited for it to arrive. No it's not the Willow Tree figurines, it's nothing extravagant, it's a nativity scene my boys can touch. I have wanted one for a while, but I am a saver, so I waited andwaited until it went on sale… $10 bucks for the nativity scene I've been wanting. You can't beat that! It's the Fisher Price Nativity set, and we all love it!

Tanner started Jr. Jazz and is loving it. Heis such a good ball player. He is ALL over the place trying to guard every kid he can (ha, ha).

Recap for November….

I can't believe I skipped out on November. Not one post from me in November. The one month I should be posting what I am thankful for. Terrible mom!

November came and went and as I sit to think about what all went on, all I can think of is SCHOOL and dr. visits. I'm pretty sure I was excited to see this month go. We all have been fighting stupid sinus problems, colds, flu… you name it!

We welcomed home Colyn, our missionary, from the Lima, Peru North Mission. What an exciting day. His mom was a little excited, she was bouncing all over the airport as soon as she saw him come down the escalator. People passing by wouldhave thought she had just won a car. We are so happy to have Colyn home!

The night before Thanksgiving my sister, Robin, called us to come and meet with her and her family. I was worried. It was just us and this never happens. Well it turned out that their family had an announcement to make… I was SCARED! Dave (Robin's husband) was offered a job, but this job would also come with a relocation. As soon as I heard this I started to ball my eyeballs out. I knew that this was going to be a good thing, but I NEVER thought something like this would happen. You see, Dave has been out of a job since May, and it was killing him to not have a job. Well back in August they were offered a job to be foster parents with my sisters work. They as in Robin and Dave. Dave and Robinhad thought about it, but they also had to think about their 4 kids and what they would want. Well after a lot of thought they all came to the conclusion that this was something that they ALL wanted to do. I know they are going to do an awesome job at this, ever since Robin's kids were little she has wanted more kids. This is the perfect opportunity for them, and I am excited for them. I'm just so sad to see them go. There's going to be so many things we are going to miss, but we know that they aren't too far from us. Good thing! So they will be moving in January, so we're hoping time will slow down (ha, ha).

Thanksgiving was awesome! The boys (all3) got up early to go and play in the famous turkey bowl. This year one thing was different, there was snow on the football field, so we had some cold boys. Anyways I love this time of the year. It lets us all reflect on everything that we are thankful for. There are so many things that I am thankful for that the list could go on and on, but I will limit it.

I am so thankful for a loving and understanding husband, he is such a hard worker, and has been such a great support to me. This last year has been a really hard year for me, and I try my hardest to hide it from a lot of people, but he has been such a good support to help me through it all. He knows that I am one that wont call out for help, I will do my hardest to do my best, but he knows exactly when to help out and step in.

I am thankful for my two awesome boys and their health. These boys have put up with a lot of stuff, and they always have a great big smile and hug for me. They are always willing to do whatever I ask (sometimes it takes another round of asking -ha, ha), but they always do it. We are so lucky to have such healthy and happy little boys. I love them to death, and I really don't know what we would do without them!

I am thankful for awesome parents. If it weren't for them, I don't know where we'd be. Its because of them, that my family (there are now a total of 42) is so close. I know of some other families where they can't stand to be around each other. Not us. It's very rare that we go a week without seeing everyone. I am also thankful for my in-laws. They are freaking awesome as well. They are always on the go, and never home, but there isn't a moment that passes by where they aren't thinking of their kids and grandkids. I am grateful that they never gave up on my husband. He was so much trouble and got into so much trouble, they could have easily given up on him, but they didn't and because of that. I have my awesome husband!

I am thankful for friends. Even though this year has been crazy and I am so grateful to know that I have these awesome friends around me. I know you probably don't think it's a big deal, but just know that your texts or sweet notes really meant and still mean a lot to me. Like I said before, this year was really crappy (except for the Hawaii part -ha, ha). Luckily I have a doctor that is FINALLY on top of it, and that has helped out immensely. My heart is finally starting to work (YAY) the right way! I was put on a medication and it really made me feel like crap! I HATED it! So now I am off it, and I'm still trying to figure things out, but we're getting there. I'm grateful for sisters that are also my friends, they have no clue what just a phone call can do. There were many days thatI felt like everything was against me (well until the hubby came home--love that guy!) and they would call just to see what was going on. Those calls made my day! Thanks sisters! Sorry I didn't think I would get into that. Some people wouldn't have even known this was going on because I try to hide as much as I can (I know, stupid huh?!).

I am thankful for the church. I am so grateful for the guidance it gives to me and my family. I might not be as involved as I should be, but one day I will be (please don't judge, I get enough of that already). I am so thankful for the opportunities it gives us to teach these little children we get to teach. They are so awesome! They teach us so much. I'm going to miss them when they graduate to the next class at the end of the year. I think this is going to be a lot harder on me this time because my little Brenner was in our class. I loved being with him and watching him grow.

We had a fabulous time going shopping on Black Friday. We really didn't have that certain item we were going for, but we did get most of what would make a kid happy done that day. Aaron's mom has started this little tradition of going to breakfast after shopping. So of course we loaded the kids up and headed to breakfast. It's been a fun little tradition.

October

Well two of my boys celebrated birthdays! Brenner celebrated his 6th birthday, and Aaron celebrated his 21st birthday (right honey?). We had the chance to celebrate Brenner's birthday at a hotel that has now become another favorite hotel. This hotel was awesome, and we have staked out these hotels across the country, so that when we go on a trip we know where to stay (ha, ha).

Aaron celebrated his birthday weekend in bed. The poor guy got really really sick the day the day after his birthday. We were down at the BYU game and no joke, 5 minutes after getting to our seats, Aaron found his way to the bathroom and spent the entire 1st half bowing to the porcelain king. Upon his return I asked him if he wanted to leave, he told me no that he wanted to be there. Well after his 3rd trip back to the bathroom I made the decision that we were leaving. The poor guy was sick. Throwing up sick, I probably should clarify that (ha, ha). I felt so bad, the last 3 years someone has been sick on his birthday, so wehave decidedto change the date of his birthday, but we're still not sure of what day (ha, ha).

The boys had a blast trick or treating (I can't believe I didn't post any pictures of that!)… see I'm a terrible mom! We had Superman (Brenner) and Batman (Tanner) visit our house. So glad we have superheroes around, they help keep us in line!

Well that's the recap of what has gone on the last three months of this year. I am so excited for Christmas to come and also a New Year. We're hoping for a better one, although the trip to Hawaii was superb., we just feel like we've lived in a bubble (ha, ha). Anyways, we're bursting that bubble and getting out!

Anyways, as I write this the boys are watching the Grinch. Oh how I LOVE Christmas time. The magic of Christmas through a 7 and 6 year old is the best. We can't wait to see their faces when they see that Santa has come.

Hope you all have a Merry Christmas!

Just remember Santa's watching!

Yep, I think we have a little soccer player!

2010-12-22T08:09:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe that I have not blogged on here since my little Brenner's birthday! I am such a terrible mom (and blogger)!

I guess that I could blame it on that we have been busy, busy, busy. Life isn't slowing down at all like I hoped it would (ha, ha). It has been crazy! I feel like the worst mom right now because I just realized that I never blogged about our little soccer player, Brenner.

During the summer the boys were talking about what sport they wanted to play in the fall. The past two years during thefall, you could find us out in Riverton EVERY night watching one of the boys play ball. Well since we lived in Sandy, and Aaron was in school, I really didn't want to be running all over the place for baseball (I know, I can't believe I said that). I love baseball, I really do, but I just didn't want to do that this year. We had enough running around during the summer, I just wanted a break (ha, ha). So we talked to the boys about possibly playing a different sport in the fall, and then in the spring they could play baseball. Brenner was excited about it, but Tanner still wanted to play baseball, along with basketball, and soccer. I think the kid thinks that I'm magic and can pull money from wherever (ha, ha).

After breaking the news that they could only pick on sport, Brenner chose soccer, and Tanner chose Jr. Jazz (post on that will be coming later-- the season hasn't officially started yet). Whew! I was so happy to hear that I wouldn't be running all over the city. Well, we signed Brenner up for soccer with a couple friends and his cousin. We did this because we are completely soccer illiterate and didn't really know the game of soccer (ha, ha). Anyways, it didn't take long for Brenner to catch on. His first game he came off the field tired as ever and told me he really didn't like running around, and that he "didn't get this game." I was kinda bummed and told him that he just needed to watch and see what to do and he'd like it.

Well the next week, wewere out of town vacationing in Hawaii (Yes I'm a little photoshop illiterate STILL!), we thought we'd talk soccer up so that when we got back in town he'd be excited to play. Well for once it worked!

The next week, we got to the game a little early, so Aaron grabbed a soccer ball and had Brenner chasing him down. We also brought treats to bribe him with (ha, ha). I know what you're thinking "You sign this little guy up for soccer to hope that it'll help his blood sugar and then bribe him with treats?" Yep, we did, but they were good treats, so no worries there! Anyways, Brenner got the ball and scored his first goal that game, he was so excited he could hardly stand it. After that first goal, it was like the light turned on and he KNEW what to do. In that game, he scored 5 of the 7 goals. It was so fun to see the excitement on his face. We have pictures hanging around here, so when I get them uploaded you'll be able to see the excitement too.

It has been fun to watch Brenner become a little aggressive, and also work together with his team to get the ball down to the goal box. It's been fun to watch him use his little elbows to keep people away, and protect that ball. He had a blast, and we had a blast watching him too. I really think we may have a little soccer player in the family!

I think the little guy scored about 12 goals this season which I think is great, since Brenner had NO clue how to play this game at the start of this season!

GOOOOAAAAL!

(More pictures to come!)

My baby's 6!

2010-10-12T22:51:00.001-07:00

I can't believe that today our baby turned 6! It's amazing how fast time has flown since we were headed to the hospital to have our little Brenner. As I was talking to Aaron I was saying how much I would give to go back and re-live that again. It was such an exciting day. It was a beautiful day, and our lives grew by another 2 feet.

As I sit here and write this, I think about all the exciting events that led up to Brenner's birth. I had begun the early signs of toxemia the Wednesday before we had Brenner. I had been told by the doctor that if my blood pressure began to rise to get my butt to the hospital. Well it rose, and it rose and it rose, but because I'm stubborn I didn't go into the hospital. I waited for Monday to come around and while I was at work I would have Dr. Tanner check everything out. Boy, was I stupid! I walked into work, Dr. Tanner decided that we would do my OB visit before we would start seeing patients... well let me just say, things weren't looking good. My blood pressure was 220/160, I had gained 17 pounds from the week prior and I had protein spilling like a jackpot into my urine (sorry to be so graphic), and I had every warning sign of toxemia that you could imagine. I was in BIG trouble! Dr. Tanner told me how life threatening things were and that I was going to have this baby that night. I bargained with him and asked him if I could wait 'til the next day. I promised him I would go home and "lay down" (wink, wink--I had a 16 month old at home), anyways I was set to have this baby on the 12! We were so excited, but oh so nervous! We were going to be responsible for another little one (ha, ha).

Well I can't believe that it's been 6 years since this little guy joined our family. There isn't a day that passes by that I can think of what life would be without Brenner in our family. He has been our little trooper through life. He's our perfect little Brenner! I remember sitting in the dr.'s office when Brenner was diagnosed with Juvenile Diabetes, thinking "this poor kid isn't going to live a normal life, this is going to be SO difficult for him." Boy was I wrong! This kid does everything he can and will prove to you that he's going to do whatever he can. He doesn't let diabetes slow him down, he doesn't let diabetes control him---he controls diabetes. Even though we have diabetes hanging around our family, we don't let that stop us from anything. Brenner constantly has a smile on his face.

Here are some awesome things we love about Brenner...

He is pure entertainment, he knows how to turn someone's bad day into a better day.

He has such a fun personality.

He loves everyone he meets.

Brenner loves the JDRF, and his T-1 friends.

Brenner loves to hang out with his mom, and even go shopping!

Brenner loves to be with his friends.

He loves to learn, he is having a blast in Kindergarten.

He loves to tell people about his diabetes.

Brenner is very easy to get along with, and once your his friend and you stay true to him, he will ALWAYS have your back!

Brenner is a great teacher, who knew that a 6 year old could teach so many people.

Brenner loves to dance AND sing. He has got the moves and grooves, and the cutest little voice.

He is also still a big movie watcher, if he stays this way, the girls are gonna LOVE him (ha, ha)

This list could go on and on, but I wont do that....

We are so lucky to have this little guy in our family, we are so happy that our Heavenly Father trusted us enough to have these two little guys and take care of them.

Pictures of Hawaii Coming Soon, I promise!

2010-09-13T18:06:00.003-07:00

11/16/2010

So, I just realized that I haven't posted our Hawaii pictures, and I haven't finished my post about Hawaii, I promise, I'm getting them ready to go. In the meantime, here's a couple to look at (Ha, ha)

Scared to Death? You bet I am!

2010-08-26T11:47:00.000-07:00

Brenner starts kindergarten on Monday, yes in four days. This post may sound like a bit of a downer but don't get me wrong, I am so excited for Brenner to be starting school and, most importantly, he is BEYOND excited (nothing like his brother –ha, ha). But... (there's always a but)...I am SCARED to death! I'd be lying if I told you otherwise. Unless you've lived the life, I suppose it's difficult to comprehend what it means to take care of a child who has Type 1 Diabetes. It is daunting and grueling and tiresome, and frustrating, and scary, etc, etc. I've had lots of folks ask how I'm dealing with this and, usually, it's the same generic answer--mostly because it's hard to tell if people REALLY want to know how you're feeling or if they are just making small talk and don't give a rat's rear end how you are feeling--I usually answer with this, "Oh I'm nervous," and I leave it at that. This is the rest of the story...

Yes I may say that, but it's a lie. I don’t want to cry more than I have, so I give that response. I've mentioned before that blogging is more of a therapy session for me, so let's just consider this another therapy session. I called Brenner’s school back in May to make arrangements to go over his 504 plan. I wanted to give them a heads up that Brenner would be attending school this fall and that he has some special requirements with his type 1 diabetes. The school was nice...always friendly. They also always give me the same answer, "We will call YOU to set up the meeting." Well its four days before school starts and I've gotten the run around. I finally called yesterday and was quite firm that I can't send Brenner to school until we have a 504 meeting, and that so would break his little heart. It is supposed to be set up for tomorrow where they will get a crash course in diabetes management and, on so many levels, I AM SCARED. So here goes...

I'm scared to send Brenner to school. I've been slaving over basal rates and boluses. Carb counts and finger checks. Injection (hopefully we’ll be back to the pump soon). Insulin changes. Night time checks. Prescription orders. Doctor visits. Documenting all blood sugars and carb counts. And, after all my efforts, I still feel like I'm fighting a losing battle. I have studied and read about Brenner’s disease. I am competent in how diabetes works and, in theory, what I need to do to keep him healthy...and I still feel like I'm failing. Sometimes it hits me, like a brick in the face, which this is our reality and his diabetes isn't going away. Those days are ROUGH, and I cry, like a baby. With the impending doom of kindergarten approaching, those days are happening more and more. Why can't I just be able to send him to school without worrying about him going low or high? Passing out. Seizures. Recess. PE. Snacks. It's so much to think about it makes my brain feel like it’s going to BLOW up. I'm tired. I’m beat, but you will never know it. We don’t want Brenner to know what all goes on behind the scenes until he needs to.

And now, after all of this, after all my efforts and tears, I am supposed to send him off to school. To people who barely know about this disease. I can't manage it well-- and I am supposed to trust THEM to do it? I'd be lying if I said I was comfortable with this scenario. Of course then my shoulder angel says, "Yes but so many kids are going to school every day and managing." Then my shoulder devil takes over again. I DON'T want to let go. I've been the one who has learned it all because I love Brenner more than anyone. Despite my best efforts, I can't control this disease and now I am supposed to trust these people who barely know him and obviously don't care enough about him to set up a meeting on how to care for him? I am supposed to, quite literally, put his life in their hands? I'd be lying if I said this thought doesn't terrify me.

Sometimes this disease is so overwhelming. I feel like I'm drowning. The waves are crashing higher and higher and I can't see the end to the storm. Of course then I have dear friends/family who throw me a life vest and it keeps me floating a while longer--helping me get through just one more of life's storms. The problem with the diabetes storm is, while it does calm down after a while, it never goes away and right now I feel very inadequate to be raising a Type 1 child. I can't swim; therefore, I am inadequate to be dealing with Type 1 Diabetes at all, let alone in school.The logical part of me knows that we will get through this and the unknown is generally scarier than the actual event. We will be just fine. I just needed to vent, cry. So, that's it for now. Therapy session over. Don't worry; I’ll be fine after school gets out June 8.

2nd Grade & Kindergarten Already?!?

2010-08-23T15:49:00.000-07:00

Tanner and neighbor Kylie

Today was a big day! It was back to school day for our little 2nd grader. I have been dreading this day since school was let out. This year we did things a little different... Aaron stayed home and came with us to drop Tanner off at school. We decided to make a little tradition starting this year, on the first day of school we will make this year a great one by having breakfast at/from McDonald's. The boys seemed to like the idea and it was such a hit, that next week when Brenner goes to kindergarten, we will do this all over again. Tanner was excited this year to go to school, completely different from the last 2 years. I think it might help going to school, when you FINALLY get some kids in your class that you know. I'm thinking that might have helped a "tad" bit. After school he came walking out like he had the best day ever, I was so happy to see his little smiling face. Hopefully this smiling face will continue all year long, I hope. Brenner was bored to death though, he misses Tanner like crazy. Luckily Brenner doesn't have to wait much longer to be a big kid and be at the same school as Tanner. Brenner's pretty stoked, he has the same teacher Tanner had in Kindergarten, so it'll be fun. I'm still bummed about them starting school, but pretty excited that we get to go to Hawaii and spend more time with these little guys. Hopefully this school year will go great and fast!

8/30/2010

Well I just noticed that I didn't do a post about our little Brenner starting school. I'm pretty sure I started one, and then accidentally deleted it. I'm a little tired (ha, ha).

Well Brenner started school today, and let me tell you how excited he was to go to school. He woke up at 6:30! I was freaking out! (We had his health care plan meeting on Friday, and all went well. Well, I'm still a little nervous, but his teacher is awesome and willing to learn and do whatever. I think she's a little overwhelmed, but she wont say anything-ha, ha. Anyways in this meeting we told the nurse and his teacher that he needs his blood sugar to be checked at 9:45 -two hours after he eats, which means he will be done eating at 7:45). Sorry, but I had to give a little background to this before I went on. Anyways at 6:30 he's up jumping around, wanting to eat and get dressed. I felt so bad because he was so excited for school and I had to be the meanie and tell him to just hang out for a while. I even tried using the excuse that McDonald's was closed, so we couldn't eat yet (ha, ha). Anyways he finally got to get ready and we were out the door to kindergarten. Aaron came along with us again, and I think the boys loved having him there. So after dropping Brenner off, I went home and patiently waited for the report on Brenner's blood sugar, the call came, he was at 90, so his teacher followed the protocol, and Brenner's blood sugar went back to the range we needed it to be in. His teacher is awesome, she came into this knowing nothing about diabetes and is doing so awesome helping Brenner take care of himself. I'm thinking his teacher has got to be a little excited for Brenner to be gone on vacation to Hawaii, I could see the relief in her eyes when I picked him up (ha, ha). Anyways, I hope Brenner's blood sugar and body will keep us all at comfortable levels. Keep your fingers crossed for us!

School is back in session, well for another two days, then we're off to Hawaii! Can't wait!

Get your t-shirts! Get your t-shirts! Come walk with us!

2010-08-13T18:21:00.001-07:00

Hey all!

We FINALLY got our proof for our shirts (for the JDRF walk)! Yay! The walk is just over a week away, and we are getting so excited! If you haven't signed up for the walk, and would like to join us in the fun we would love to have you, and it's completely free! Click on this link if you would like to join us https://walk.jdrf.org//index.cfm?fuseaction=walk.walkeradd&chapterid=4670&eventID=6422&teamid=T1665929, is our 4th year walking in honor of Brenner and every year it just gets funner! Brenner loves it when we have a big group, so if you have time on August 21st from 9am-11am we would love to have you there walking with us. This year we will have a tent at the walk with Brenner's name on it (Brenner's Journey), so come and party with us, and bring your lawn chairs!

So, now on with the shirts... they are $5.50/shirt (childrens small--adult x-large), $7.50 (2X-3X). Aren't they so cute?!? I think so! If you would like to order a shirt, we need your size(s) and also how many you would like to order by this coming Sunday night e-mail me at crystal.schnabel@gmail.com. As always you DON'T have to have a shirt to walk with us, we would just love to have your support at this walk. I thought I would attach what our shirts are going to look like (this is a scanned picture, so the color is a lot lighter), so you can see what you are purchasing.

Thanks again for your support!

I'm so NOT ready for this...

2010-08-02T15:09:00.000-07:00

So towards the end of the month I will be driving my boys to school, yes both of them. I am so scared, it's crazy! I have been having anxiety like crazy, and I know it doesn't help mine, but Tanner has been experiencing anxiety as well. It's crazy, this anxiety hit me like a bus (no joke!). I know there are people out there that will say it's just a phase and it will magically go away, but I have been in this "phase" long enough that I know it's going to be a long time. (Now before I get into this just know I'm not knocking on my mom, it just gets really frustrating for me.)

So Brenner is supposed to be starting school. I know, it's crazy how fast our kids grow up. Yes, I have cried about it, and honestly I will start to cry as soon as it's brought up. So for you that think it's funny to see me cry. PLEASE don't make me cry. I am REALLY having a hard time thinking about both of my boys being in school, and every possible thing that could happen.

So a couple days ago, maybe even a couple weeks (sorry the past 3 weeks have been a blur everything seems to have happened in 24 hours -ha, ha). I was talking to someone (when I could) about Brenner being in school, and I was saying how nervous I am for this new transition. Well my mom (probably trying to put a positive note in) said "Crystal, everything is going to be fine." Which I have heard this many times, and sometimes it's worked and sometimes it hasn't. The thing that really killed me is how she said it, like Brenner's condition is no big deal. Well, it IS a big deal, and it will always be a big deal, it's his life! People really have no clue how to take care of Brenner and so when people say stuff like this, it really gripes me. Which brings me to why I am so nervous for school. We (Aaron and I --and Tanner as well) try not to make Brenner's diabetes a huge ordeal, we want Brenner to feel as normal as possible. We try to keep everything low key so that he feels as much normal as we can. We try not to make high blood sugar readings such a huge ordeal and the try to do the same with his lows. I don't think people understand what a tightrope we have walked and are still walking with our little Brenner. No matter if he eats the exact same thing the day before, his blood sugar readings could be completely opposite than the previous day. Sorry for venting, but while the Mr. is busy off at work and school, a computer is going to "listen" to me (ha, ha).

600 what?!?

2010-07-06T16:49:00.003-07:00

Yes, 600! No people this is NOT the amount of money in my bank account, it's WAS the number of Brenner's blood sugar upon returning from playing over at his friends house. I got a little upset when I checked it and saw the reading "600". We went back over the rules of being over at friends houses...

1. Don't eat ANYTHING
2. Come home if you are shaking
3. Absolutely NO FRUIT SNACKS or SWEDISH FISH!

I asked him what he had been eating and he replied "Mom, they had apples down there, and I wanted to be just like my friends. I HATE diabetes!" That right there broke my heart, I felt so bad. I hate diabetes too! This is the hard part, the part where my child feels completely different.

I hate that he can't go down to his friends house without being checked on EVERY 20 minutes.

I hate that if he goes down to a friends house he has to come home if snacks are out.

I hate that some people are ignorant and don't care if they are giving my child sugar that he shouldn't be having.

I hate when people say they "want to learn" how to take care of Brenner, but really just say that to make us feel like they care.

I hate that we (Aaron and I) can't even dream of going on a date until our son is old enough to care for his diabetes. Every time we go out, it's a group date, which I wont complain, at least I know my son is okay because he IS with us 24/7.

I hate that people think that since Brenner is 5 (I was also told this when he was just 2 1/2), he is old enough to tell people he can't have certain treats. Are you FREAKING kidding me?!? If it's something everyone else is eating, it's wrapped in something cool, etc., he should have the willpower to tell that person no? If that were the case, would we have fat people, type 2 diabetics? You're telling me that my 5 year old, should be able to tell people he can't have candy? You are CRAZY!

I hate it how people think they know EVERYthing about diabetes. Just because your friend's cousin has it doesn't mean you know how my son's diabetes is controlled. Stop trying to inform me on how to take care of my son, that's what his doctor is for. Thank you!

One more thing I can't stand, I can't stand the looks I get when I order my son a diet coke. I shouldn't have to explain why I am ordering him a diet coke, but when people prod and want to know everything, what more can I do but explain that he is diabetic, and move on.

I hate, hate, hate DIABETES!

HELP US FIND A CURE!

If you would like to contribute to our fundraising goal of $5,475 (this is how many shots Brenner has endured since diagnosis 3 years ago), we would greatly appreciate it. A cure for our little Brenner is our biggest wish ever. How exciting will it be when we have that cure and he can go back to being a little boy doing whatever he wishes. If you would like to donate please click here.

Your support and donation is greatly appreciated!

*Okay so this post was supposed to be a short one, not long with venting included. One day I might just have to record the day in the life of a 5 year old diabetic. Diabetes is VERY challenging, but were just glad it's ONLY diabetes.*

Part-ay (week)!

2010-06-24T09:30:00.000-07:00

Now that we have recouperated a little bit, I thought I should probably update how awesome our fundraising dinner was. The support was AWESOME!

We had a wonderful turnout & wonderful entertainment. We were lucky enough to have our former bishop, Brian Merrill & Chip Broyles (High Water) come and entertain us with their talented voices. I kept looking over at my boys playing at the park and dancing around. We loved having them entertain us while we ate. They even took requests from the crowd. One request was from my nephew's wife, Jayme. She is getting ready to be deployed Iraq on Friday, and we are going to miss her. She requested "The River" by Garth Brooks. They took a minute to recognize her and her willingness to serve our country. We are hoping that they will make this part of our tradition now. We had a lot of compliments about this entertainment.

We also had a talented face painter, and boy is she talented. This was our second year having her at our dinner, and I think (hope) she will become part of our tradition. This facepainter can change the look of your child within minutes. The hardest part of having Brenner's face painted was not being able to tell if his blood sugar was low (ha, ha).

We had some awesome prizes that we gave away, as well as auctioned off. If you didn't make it to the dinner this year, you're going to want to next year. People got steals on gaming systems like:

Playstation 3 for $220

XBox 360 $110

Nintendo DS $85

We also auctioned off:

Autographed Carlos Boozer jersey, Autographed Kyle Korver jersey, Autographed Jazz Basketball, Stadium of Fire tickets, Spa Packages, iPod touch, Rivertrip (including stay) for 2, Chess Board.... and many more items.

We raffled off 50 prizes as well.

We all had such a fun night, we can't believe the support this little guy has behind him. We are so lucky that we have such a supportive family & also friends.

As we were unpacking, my sisters, mom and I were all talking about how well everything went. Brenner came into the house and quietly sat next to me, when there was a moment he asked "Mom, do we have a cure for me yet?" My sisters all teared up, and I turned to him and said not yet, but we're on our way to get one. It broke my heart, and it made me want to turn back around and go set up for another fundraising dinner.

Because of everyone's generosity, we have raised over $3,000.

We would like to reach $5,475. Why $5475, that's such an odd number, you ask? Well Brenner has endured 5,475 injections over these past three years, that is $1 for every injection Brenner has received. If you weren't able to make it to our dinner and you would like to donate, or if you feel that little Brenner has a special place in your heart, or you would like to contribute because you know of someone with diabetes, please click here, you can pay with a credit card, debit card, or you can contact me (schnabee@hotmail.com) and mail a check. Your donation is also tax deductible.

We couldn't have had such a successful dinner without the help of Texas Roadhouse, Draper's ColdStone Creamery, Shasta, and YOU!

Thanks again for your support!

You're Invited!

2010-06-16T13:08:00.000-07:00

Well Monday is fast approaching and I just wanted to make sure whomever vists this blog (probably just my mom -ha, ha), that they know they are invited to Brenner's fundraising dinner. We have been working our tails off (well actually I think we have lost them now), but we have some awesome items that will be in our silent auction, as well as prizes our raffle. We have had so many generous donations for this dinner. You will be suprised at what has been donated (Stadium of Fire tickets, gaming systems--yes that is a plural word, longboard donation, etc.). It's going to be fun!

We will have an awesome face painter that will be at our dinner, everything is included in your $6.00 (or more) donation. That means your Texas Roadhouse dinner, your ice cream from Cold Stone, your raffle ticket, and also an awesome face painter! Everything is included in your donation! Well except for the silent auction stuff :).

Anyways, if your invite hasn't reached you, here's another one. We did blur out the address, so let me know if you need the address. Our e-mail is schnabee@hotmail.com.

Hope to see ya there!

Good times!

2010-06-03T08:44:00.000-07:00

Well today is the day! It's Tanner's last day!! Like I've said before, I am SO excited to have him (and Brenner) home with me again. It has been so fun to see how much Tanner has grown, and how much fun he has had. We are still working on our anxiety, but hopefully by the time 2nd grade is here, we will have this under control.

Tanner has had a very understanding teacher, and I am so thankful for her. There were days I worried for no reason, because I knew she would be there for him. I am crossing my fingers that he gets a teacher just like this one. I'm sure she wondered a lot of the time, if Tanner was actually grasping what she was teaching him... and guess what? He was! Everyday after trying to jar his mind, he would tell me about everything that happened that day. We are so proud of Tanner and all of his hard work. He came out to the car so excited because he earned a "Presidential Fitness Award" patch. Which I think is awesome because when I was little I didn't earn that. He also got an award called the "Principal's Pride" pin. Each grade has a list of things they must complete and Tanner completed more than he needed to in order to receive this pin. Way to go Tanner!

We are so excited to report that we have a 2nd grader in the house, along with a Kindergartner. They are both so excited to have the summer to play, but they can't wait to get back to the grind.

Look at how much my boys have changed since their first day at school...

(okay for some reason my computer is being dumb, pictures to be posted soon!)

For you that have little ones, enjoy them because pretty soon another person will be enjoying them 8 hours out of the day.

May 2010

2010-05-31T22:37:00.001-07:00

Okay so I noticed that May has come and gone and not ONE single post for may...WOW! What can I say? That just means we have been pretty busy... well that's what I tell myself to make me feel better (ha, ha). I was thinking I would do a quick update with everything, and just post things and go about my way, but then I realized that it wouldn't be under the month of May by the time I am done (ha, ha). So I am going to make this post a pretty long one, sorry this is actually my way of journaling, so if you don't want to read ALL the stuff we did, then don't ha, ha. I will say though, we did have a blast in May.

4/15/2010 - Now

We have been living at baseball parks for the past month, for BOTH of the boys. Tanner has loved playing machine pitch baseball, and I think Brenner was bored out of his mind with coach pitch earlier in the season (what do you expect -ha, ha), but he has some awesome coaches that have helped him improve, and he has started to love playing. They have made coach pitch a lot funner than it could be. I actually think soccer might be Brenner's "thing". Yes, we are soccer illiterate, but we'll have to learn. Who knows though, maybe baseball IS his thing, we'll just have to see. Tanner has a really awesome coach as well, and I am hoping we can stick with him through baseball seasons.

5/1/2010

We had the chance to "Walk for Autism" with our awesome neighbors. Yes it did rain on us, but that's what makes it fun. It was neat to see all the resources that are out there for these children with Autism. After that fun walk, we went to this 7-11 for some amazing hot chocolate. Then we found out later that another gas station has awesome hot chocolate as well. So one day we'll have to make that trek back there to find out (ha, ha). Thanks for the laugh, Season!

5/6/2010

Tanner had an awesome musical performance for 1st Grade. His class sang "Red is the Color, I know," cute song. It's a Spanish song, and he now knows all the colors in Spanish. He was the cutest little blonde haired Spaniard (ha, ha). He sang his little heart out.

5/15/2010

We walked with the March of Dimes. My friend Lindsay lost her little Andrew when she was only 26 weeks along. I felt that we needed to walk with her in honor of her little guy.

5/19/2010

We had the opportunity of going to the Zoo with the First Grade. Aaron and Brenner met up with us, and we saundered all over the Zoo. It rained on us a couple of times, but other than that, it was a great day at the Zoo.

5/25/2010

My Grandma McCray turned 94! We had a party for her on Sunday (the 23rd) so everyone could come and see her. My Grandma is the greatest, and to think of the things she has experienced makes me say WOW. She is one of the best cooks I know, and she has the greatest stories to tell. She has always been so welcoming to anyone and everyone. Up until the age of 85, she mowed her own lawn, pruned her cherry trees, shoveled her sidewalk, you name it. She is the most active 94 year old. She is still as sharp as a tack, and wont let you forget it. Happy Birthday Grandma!

5/27/2010

My baby graduated from preschool. I was not looking forward to this day. I am so happy to have him home, but I am not excited to let him, or Tanner go back (to school) again in August. I love having my boys home, as I have said before. A couple of weeks before his graduation he was in the car singing this cute song "Goodbye, dear friends". Aaron couldn't tell what he was singing, so he asked me. I told him the name of the song, and he looked at me and said "Are you going to be able to make it through the graduation without crying?" I laughed at him and said "Are you kidding? No!" It's the cutest song, it talks about moving on, and probably not seeing each other again. In Brenner's case, he probably wont. We live about 20 blocks from his preschool, and it has been a drive, but oh so worth it. He does talk about 'marrying' his friend Taya when he gets older. I just laugh. His preschool teacher is awesome, and has taught Brenner a lot. He knows his birthday, his address, his phone number, colors, shapes (including hexagon, pentagon, octagon, etc.), how to tie his shoe, the pledge of allegiance, and The Star Spangled Banner-- things they need to know. She has taught them things that some 1st graders still don't know. We will miss Mrs. Wilkinson, but we know that we get to go on lunch dates with her now! Wahoo!

5/28/10-/5/30/10

We had the opportunity to drive down to St. George for Aaron's Grandma's 90th birthday! It was soooo much fun! It was so fun to hang out with the Schnabel cousins, that never happens! It was also fun to watch Aaron mingle with his cousins he hasn't seen since he was 15. We decided that this is going to be a yearly tradition.

Wow, what a month!

Aaron has been busy collecting donations for our fundraising dinner! It is amazing how generous businesses are, even with this economy still trying to recover.

Hope you all had a wonderful May, we sure did!

Save the Date!

2010-04-30T13:23:00.000-07:00

Monday, June 21st, 2010!

We have finally secured our location and date for Brenner's 3rd Annual fundraising dinner for Juvenile Diabetes! It will be lots of fun! Texas Roadhouse will be catering the dinner (for the 4th year in a row--thanks Texas Roadhouse!), along with awesome entertainment, face painter, and we're hoping for an appearance from the Jazz Bear! We will also have a silent auction for gaming systems, hotel stays, etc.

Your donation of $6/person** will get you...
Texas Roadhouse dinner
Cold Stone Ice Cream
Face painting
Awesome Entertainment
Prizes!!

**100% of funds raised will go to the JDRF in helping to find a cure for Brenner, and others dealing with this chronic illness.

Where can you go for a Texas Roadhouse dinner, Cold Stone Dessert

and entertainment for $6.00?!?

***If you know of anyone or company that would like to donate items (or money) to our fundraising dinner please let us know by either leaving a comment (with an e-mail address, so we can get back to you), or you can e-mail us at crystal.schnabel@gmail.com***

7 Already?!?

2010-04-16T22:58:00.001-07:00

Wow, I can't believe our little Tanner turned 7 today! There is no way I am old enough to have a 7 year old, I must've had him when I had just turned 13 (ha, ha).

We are so lucky to have Tanner in our family, he adds so much spunk to our family, and we love it! He keeps us on our toes and keeps us going just like an Energizer bunny!

This past week, our family got food poisoning from Del Taco (the Draper location), and Tanner and I got the brunt of it. The entire time we were sick I was feeling bad that we had this, but at the same time happy that it didn't happen on his birthday. On Thursday night, we had the boys' baseball games and then a wedding reception (BTW, Congratulations Paige & Brett!), while at the wedding Tanner came up to me and told me he was sick again. I started to freak out because all I could imagine was him throwing up right there. We wisked him out and he did his little job, I just felt bad for him because he didn't feel so swell. On our way home I was trying to figure out what we could do for his birthday IF he wasn't feeling better the next day.

Well while I was talking to Aaron, Tanner must've overheard me talking to him. The next thing I knew he was right next to me telling me that he WAS going to school, so everyone could sing to him. I was completely shocked! Since Tanner was 3, he didn't like people to sing Happy Birthday to him unless it was us, he hated to be embarassed. I was so happy to hear him say that he wanted to go to school so people could sing to him. He is starting to come out of his little shell (ha, ha).

Tanner had a pretty swell birthday, his friends sang to him, he got to choose where his birthday dinner was... Texas Roadhouse (our favorite!), and he got his very own ~~gumball machine~~ skateboard! We thought he would love having a gumball machine, until he opened the box of gumballs and told us that he would rather have a skateboard (ha, ha). So he got his wish, a new skateboard! I never would have thought it would have been a skateboard, but that's just me (ha, ha). I guess he had told all of his friends he wanted a skateboard because when his classmates wrote his birthday book they all had a picture of him skateboarding, not playing baseball or anything close to that (ha, ha).

We have loved having Tanner in our little family. Like I said before, he keeps us on our toes, but he is the most loving kid. Here some things about our Tanner...

He loves to watch Phineas and Ferb.

He loves Diary of a Wimpy Kid books.

He loves going to the movies.

He loves to play baseball, and he's good at it!

He loves to be around his cousins.

He loves to help Brenner out with is diabetes.

He loves little kids.

He loves to sing (especially Hey, Soul Sister), and has the cutest voice!

He loves to be outside.

He loves Cafe Rio!

He loves to share Cafe Rio salads with his mom!

He loves salads and home made Ranch dressing.

He loves to go on walks.

He has the best laugh.

He has almost "broke" the tooth fairy in one week!

He's growing like a weed!

Another thing about him is he can't wait to go to Hawaii, and boogie board!

Every night before the boys fall asleep I tell my boys one thing, and that is "Don't grow up!" He just laughs and says "Mom, I'm sorry, but I have to." I honestly have loved being a mom to these boys, although some days people might question that (ha, ha), but I really do love being home with these boys. They are our life!

Happy Birthday Tanner!
We Love You!

So excited!

2010-04-06T13:26:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's the worlds worst blogger, me. I am sitting here watching it snow (AGAIN), and I can't believe we are in April. I swear this Spring break, was actually Christmas break (ha, ha).

Well last week, we FINALLY booked our tickets to Hawaii! I am so excited about going, but I am NOT excited about looking the way I do right now, so I am putting together a challenge. It does involve money and one person winning the ENTIRE jackpot. It's pretty simple, so if you are interested in becoming a competitor let me know and I'll get you ready to go. Here is the information for the contest click here. I was just going to do this with family, but I thought I would open it to my friends as well. It's going to be fun! We all have vacations we are going on, and I know this is the season I dread the most (ha, ha).

If you are interested in joining this challenge e-mail me at crystal.schnabel@gmail.com!

Sooooo much to catch up on....

2010-03-22T13:17:00.001-07:00

Okay so I will admit, I am the worlds WORST blogger! I haven't blogged in over a month... HOLY COW!

It has been a fun and eventful month, and I will try to do a quick recap of what has gone on since my last post....

We had another fun trip up to Midway with our friends Dallin, Season & Co. We went snowboarding & sledding out on the Homestead golf course. It was so much fun just to get away from it all. We had the YUMMIEST dinner while we were up there, I crave it everyday now--thanks Season! Then we watched the Olympics, I loved watching those. My boys and I would watch those everyday. I loved hearing my boys chant "USA, USA, USA, USA". They would get into the games with me, and yell at the TV, it was great! That Apollo Anton-Ohno, has won my heart over again!

I had posted that I was really hoping that my boys didn't get sick on my birthday, and guess what?!? They didn't! I was really starting to worry about Brenner earlier in the week because he had been sick, but he kicked it without having to visit the ER (so glad!). So I guess Aaron and I can celebrate our birthdays on our actual birthday without picking another birthdate (ha, ha).

We actually got to visit the Kids Safety Fair on the Friday the 26th of February, and the boys came home as little swimmy frog owners (ha, ha)... yes they are still alive!

Later that night, my dad had his "Suprise" swimming party for his birthday. Yes, I did say "Suprise", and my dad planned it (ha, ha). He loves to have all the kids and grandkids together, and he knows how much they love to swim, so he got a hotel room and everyone came. It was fun, because this time I knew I wasn't going to be leaving from the hotel room to go straight to Primary Childrens (ha, ha).

The 27th we went to the Diabetes Expo, to find out some information about a new pump we have our eye on (Hint: Nick Jonas wears it--ha, ha). We are hoping to do a study with this pump, so we can get Brenner back on one and regulated before he goes to Kindergarten (Ugh! That scares the daylights out of me!). We WERE the minorities there, and I felt SO out of place at the Diabetes Expo.

After that, Aaron and the boys wanted to take me to dinner for my birthday. So I picked my favorite mexican restaurant, El Farol. Let me just say our waitress killed the fun night. She was TERRIBLE! You know it's bad, when Aaron gets up and complains. He was so mad, I thought I could see steam coming out of his ears (no joke!). Let me just add this other part to it, I am SO glad I hadn't given Brenner his insulin for his dinner or we probably would've been riding up to Primary's in an ambulance. The kicker of the entire story (maybe I will post the story later when I'm not trying to catch up on life -ha, ha) was when Aaron went up to complain about our waitress, the manager or whatever, told Aaron she could give him $3.00 off our ticket. Are you kidding me, she NEVER brought out our food, she never checked on us, she sat and talked to friends and completely ignored us, and that is what you are going to do for us? Anyways, I was really bummed because I loved that restaurant, but the waitress killed it for me that night. Maybe one day, I will go back, but not right now.

After the lovely El Farol visit, Aaron felt like he had to make it up to me, so he took me shopping! I love shopping! I decided to go to Kohls because it's my favorite place to shop, plus with a Kohls card you get discounts and you can pay it right off, right then. Who doesn't like discounts? The best part about this Kohls trip was my boys. We were standing in line when Tanner realized he didn't get me anything (ha, ha), I told him "It's okay, Dad, and you guys are buying my presents right now." He said with tears in his eyes, "No mom, I didn't get to pick anything out for you and I REALLY want to." So he, Brenner and Aaron ran over to the jewelry counter and picked out somethings. These boys were so excited to give me my presents that as soon as they got home they hurried and wrapped them and then gave them to me. Tanner gave me the cutest hoop earrings (he picked them out by himself--he has some good taste) and Brenner gave me a necklace with a 4-leaf clover and told me that it was my good luck charm! Oh how I love these boys. I was spoiled! I had a great birthday!

We are STILL loving having Davey home and can't wait for Colyn's return in 7 short months.

Tanner and Brenner are growing like weeds! I'm not liking that!

We have decided that we ARE going to Hawaii in September! Wahoo!

We went to Isabelles baby blessing yesterday at Whitney & Jason's. Jason did a great job blessing Isabelle.

Alta's Baseball season has begun and I can't wait for it to get warmer, so we can go watch some games!

Tanner and Brenner are getting excited to start baseball as well. We're just waiting to hear from coaches now!

Tanner is doing his Flat Stanley project. Flat Stanley is visiting New York this week and then he will be off to Peru to visit Tanner's cousin Colyn! Tanner is getting excited to see Stanley.

We are getting ready to send out donation requests for Brenner's dinner, so if you have any ideas of places, or people that would like to donate let us know! We are going to have awesome dinner & entertainment so mark your calendars for June 21st! We also have some awesome donations rolling in, that I know I will be bidding on.

I just pushed the "Submit" button for our taxes today! I am so excited to finally have them done, but I am nervous! The stress that comes along with having a business license, I hate it! Hopefully the IRS will accept my taxes and I can just be on my merry way without the worry (ha, ha).

We are all doing well! I can't believe that my little 1st Grader will be out of school in 2 months! I am really dreading that because that means in August I will be a lonesome one! I am not excited for that, hopefully I can volunteer at the school more than I am, or go back to school myself. We'll just have to see.

Hope everyone is doing well!

He's baaaack & I'm a slacker!

2010-02-09T12:06:00.000-08:00

I can't believe I really didn't do a post right after our missionary Davey returned. We all are having a ball with Davey back. Tanner and Brenner have another new buddy to "hang out" with.
It was the funnest experience out at the airport. My sister Robin (Davey's mom) made shirts for all of the cousins to wear. Each shirt had a letter on it and it spelled out "We (Heart) Elder Cavaness", and then the grown ups had shirts with ties on them. It was so awesome to share this with the rest of the family. The anticipation of seeing Davey come down the escalator was priceless. As soon as I saw him the hair on my legs grew 2 feet, I swear! It was so exciting to see this man that grew up in 2 short years. He is adjusting really well back to life in Utah, but talks all the time about going back to Washington. He misses his peeps up there.

I seriously would hang out at the airport everyday just to see these missionaries come home, but yeah I have other things to do. So, luckily in just 8 short months we will get to do this again and welcome Colyn home from Peru! I can do the homecomings, just not the farewells.

So I noticed that it's the 9th of February and I haven't posted anything... what a slacker!

Everyone is doing good, we are hoping to keep everyone well. I have to put that because every year on my birthday (I will not say which day it is, but it is this month) and in October, Brenner gets really sick. So we are going to try our hardest to spend my birthday out of the ER with the boys. If that doesn't work, we are going to change our birthdays (ha, ha).

Aaron is loving school (well at least I hope, if not, he's putting on a good show). He can't wait for his golf class to start. He is greatful for his job, it's been pretty stable lately, so we just keep crossing our fingers.

Tanner is doing great in school, from what I can tell he is loving school. That's a good thing! Last week at school they celebrated "100 days of school." So that day when he came home I went over his sight words to see how many he knew. There are 100 of them, and at the first of the year he knew 55, now he knows 90 sight words. I was pretty excited to share that with him. He loves to be encouraged, and enjoys the recognition. He also did an animal report and chose to learn about Gorillas. It was fun to watch him want to do his own report. I've never thought anyone could get excited about doing a report, let's just hope it stays that way (ha, ha). Tanner is also rockin out his spelling tests. He is an awesome speller! Out of the 10 spelling tests he has taken, he has got 7 100%! Last week he missed two spelling words and was really bummed. I'm glad to see that he is learning that it's important to try his best.

Brenner is loving preschool, he loves, loves, loves his friends and his teacher. Last night I was laying in bed thinking about the boys and I realized that after preschool, we wont have the "choice" to go to school or not. I really don't like that idea (ha, ha)! I am going to be childless and that seriously scares me. Hopefully I can find someone else to take care of (ha, ha... no I'm not hinting towards another one right now, although that would be a blast!). We are having fun just having "our time" for now. I love it!

I am doing good, I just started a wellness challenge yesterday and I am going to WIN (well at least I hope)! I know it's only day two out of the 12 weeks, but so far I am doing good. This challenge is pretty cool, if you want to check it out it's right here, but it's too late to sign up for this challenge. The hardest thing for me is being hypoglycemic, and not getting the sugar when I drop low (ha, ha), and really need it. I am trying to figure out other ways to get my sugar without having candy, so if you have any suggestions I would love them. I needed something else to motivate me and so I have started this challenge along with buying a way cute swimsuit which will either be worn on the beaches in Cali, or Hawaii (yeah, that's STILL up in the air!).

Oh some other exciting news, my nephew Braden got married on Friday. We are so excited for him and Jamie to begin their life together. Jamie is in the National Guard and will be deploying to Iraq in July, so Braden and her decided to tie the knot on Friday. Congrats you two!

Anywhoo, we have had some exciting news in our family, hope your families are well!

3 years already?!?

2010-01-18T21:31:00.000-08:00

Today is Diabetes Day! No, it isn't the international day to recognize all those people around the world that live with Diabetes every day. It is our special made up holiday that we celebrate on January 18th, and we will celebrate it until we find a cure.

Brenner was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes on January 18, 2007, just shortly after turning 2. Back in 2007 we had been having issues with Brenner and his frequent trips to the bathroom. We actually thought he had reversed potty training.

I worked with a doctor that's grandson had been diagnosed a year prior to this, and so I asked him the signs and everything. On my spare time, I "googled" diabetes to see if my assumptions were wrong, I was really hoping so, but everything was pointing to juvenile diabetes.

After a couple of days, of frequent trips to the bathroom, and many water cup refills through the night, and as soon as I knew they office was open I called the pediatrician. The nurse tried to tell me that it could be a possible kidney stone, or bladder infection, and they could see him in the next couple days. Being the mom that I am, I demanded that he be seen that day, and within the hour. After working in the OB office I knew that I had a little more pull with getting in to see a doctor. The nurse finally talked to a doctor, and the doctor wanted me in the office with Brenner ASAP (thank goodness!).

I wasn't even ready, I hadn't even showered. I honestly didn't know exactly what was ahead that day. Anyways, I woke Brenner up, and took him in his pj's without an ounce of breakfast (I was hoping they would get a "fasting" blood sugar reading on him). So after arriving at the doctors office, they quickly put us in an exam room and I waited patiently hoping that my assumptions were wrong again. They took a quick urine sample and checked that, they were actually checking for a kidney stone still when the urine sample came back with "a little bit of sugar traces". I was like "duh, no joke!"

After checking him out more, his doctor wanted a blood sugar reading. I let her know that his blood sugar reading would be a "fasting" one because he hadn't eaten since 8:00 PM the night before. She came in and said "Well it's a little high, but that's because he just ate." I said "No, he hasn't eaten this morning, it's only 9:15, I woke him from his bed and brough him here." She looked at me and said "Well then we are dealing with a REALLY, REALLY sick boy. His blood sugar was 618 and rising." She told me that she was diagnosing him with diabetes and that we would be spending a couple of days up at Primary Childrens Medical Center learning how to take care of him. She directed me to go straight to the hospital, and not to make ANY stops. She commended me on being so demanding on getting him in to be seen, and had also told me that if I had waited til later in the day to bring him in he would've been life flighted to Primary's.

And that was that. The day our world got flipped - turned upside down. Fast forward one year. The next year on January 18th, I told Aaron how it had been a year since Brenner's diagnosis, and he said "you know what we need to make this a celebration, even though it's not a 'good' celebration, why don't we make it a fun day instead of a gloomy one?" I agreed. We decided that we would have a little party with the 4 of us.

I know people probably think this is weird and are thinking "Why would you have a party to celebrate such a horrible day?" But if you think about it, this disease was going to be with him every day for the rest of his life, or until WE find a cure. We started thinking about the kind of child we wanted to raise. Did we want him to use his diabetes as an excuse? Did we want it to hold him back from things? Did we want him crying about it? No! Instead we would have a party. We bought him a cake (hilarious response everytime I tell the cake decorator what I would like written on the cake) and got him a present and we celebrated. And we have celebrated every year since then! Hard to believe it is has already been 3 years.

So today being 3 years since diagnosis. He was suprised with cousing sleeping over yesterday! Today he played with his cousins and then Brenner's choice for lunch was Arctic Circle. We had planned to take him to the movie, but he REALLY wanted to play with the cousins instead. We bought him Super Mario Brothers for the Wii, but had to give it to him early (I think his dad really wanted to play it instead--ha, ha).

Anyways, I know a lot of people think it's weird that we would celebrate such a weird anniversary, but we can either cry about it which isn't going to change a darn thing, or we can have fun. We have chosen to make it a fun day.

(yes he got enough insulin for his piece of cake -ha, ha)

This post also brings me another opportunity to remind you of the fundraiser we have held each year since his diagnosis. We have set the date for Monday, June 21st with Texas Roadhouse donating dinner. We are going to have an awesome dinner, you wont be let down, I promise! More information to come, but get your thinking caps on, the theme this year is Rock-n-Roll. We are hoping to be in town for the walk, we are trying to get vacations figured out (love college schedules) but as of right now we WILL be walking!

Thanks for being such a great support to Brenner!

To my little Quincy!

2010-01-13T16:31:00.000-08:00

Today was one of those days I knew was coming although I was really hoping it would turn out different. Today we lost our little Shih Tzu, Quincy. Quincy had become really sick over the last two days, and today he decided to return to doggy heaven.

I know a lot of you will think I am stupid for even doing this, and that's fine. Just know that this was my little buddy and my little dachsie, Slinky's, buddy too. Whenever anyone was gone, you could tell someone was missing because Quincy would be waiting at the door for that person to come home. Even though we would push him out of the way at the door, or got shoved outside when visitors were here, we LOVED that dog.

We will miss you Quincy bud, and we will always think of you when we're coming home late!

We love you Quincy!

She's here!

2010-01-12T19:31:00.000-08:00

We are SOOOO excited to announce the arrival of...

Isabelle Piper Powell

7 lbs. 15 oz.

20 inches long

January 12, 2009

2:56 pm

We have FINALLY been blessed with a little girl! She is ADO.RA.BLE

(yep, she takes after me -ha, ha)!

Pictures to come soon, hey maybe after I visit her tomorrow!

Welcome to the world 'Belle, we love you!

Happy 2010!

2010-01-04T12:46:00.000-08:00

We had the opportunity to spend New Years Eve downtown. Aaron had won a hotel stay through the radio station and so we decided to use this stay for New Year Eve. I'm telling you, I'm taking Aaron to Vegas, hopefully we'll hit the jackpot! He wins everything!

It was so fun to be downtown in the heart of the party on New Years Eve. We were right across the street from the EnergySolutions Center, so we were within walking distance to the Gateway Mall as well. We had Trax right out side, so we could jump on Trax and ride for free in the "free fare zone".

The boys were really excited to go swimming. They begged us from the minute we arrived to the hotel until we FINALLY gave in. We ate at California Pizza Kitchen, what a yummy place to eat! We hadn't ever been there, but we will be frequent visitors now when we are up there. After going out to dinner, we headed back to the hotel so the boys could swim. While en route to our room, we ran into a news anchor for Fox 13. She was a little tipsy, and I think she was wearing some six year old girls leather skirt. If you are a well known news anchor, why would you put yourself out there like that. I guess it's good blackmail... yes Aaron snapped a couple pictures of the trash, but I will be nice and not post those.

The boys finally decided to get out of the pool at 11:30, so they could go upstairs and blow their noise makers (ha, ha... that sounded funny!). Anyways, we are excited for 2010 to be here, and we are sad to see 2009 go... because that means we are getting older!

Hope you all had a safe New Years, we did!

Santa made his visit!

2010-01-04T12:45:00.000-08:00

It's true... we were good this year, and Santa was good to us!

We had a fabulous Christmas this year, and it was so fun to see the excitement in the eyes of our boys! The only person that could actually sleep on Christmas Eve was Aaron. Tanner and Brenner couldn't sleep because they "REALLY wanted to open the presents as soon as Santa was gone," (ha, ha).

I was BEYOND excited to see all 3 of my boys faces on Christmas morning. I actually woke Aaron up in the middle of the night and told him I couldn't sleep... he laughed at me and said "what are you 5 again?" I seriously was so excited I couldn't sleep.

Tanner got an actual snowboard package for Christmas (oh how I "heart" KSL.COM), and the Air Hogs he has asked for, for well the last 2 years (ha, ha).

Brenner got the Monster Truck Game along with a new scooter (he's so easy to please!).

Aaron was suprised to see that Santa brought him a new golf club set. He.was.in.shock! Aaron will be taking a golf class while attending school, so Santa thought he could use a new set of golf clubs.

I actually didn't ask for anything, I know what a pooper! I seriously would rather see the excitement on my boys' faces, it's the best present EVER!

We also gave the boys a trip to Disneyland (that was part of my present as well -ha, ha). After visiting family, we found out Aaron's side of the family is going to Hawaii. So now we are torn... Disneyland or Hawaii? Tanner wants to go to Disneyland because "it will be so fun" (I totally agree!). Brenner is not one that likes ride so he is pulling for Hawaii (I would love that as well :) ). So for right now we are going on a trip to somewhere... not sure where, but hopefully we'll get this figured out soon (ha, ha).

Our Christmas was great! We are actually waiting for two more presents, one that will be arriving on the 18th... baby Isabelle, and one that will be arriving on the 26th, my nephew! Davey will be returning from serving a mission in Washington!

Anyways, how was your Christmas?

2010-01-04T12:43:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I have been a terrible blogger for a while. I've been in a little rut, but I am hoping that I am out of that rut. This last month was exciting, but also one of those months where you just can't wait for it to be over. It's been a whirlwind, seriously. December went by so quick, and I have only started to realize how fast life is going.

Aaron did an awesome job in school, he passed all of his classes with flying colors. He is excited to start the Spring semester this coming week. I think he's more excited for March to come, so he can whip out those new golf clubs he got for Christmas. We suprised him and bought him new golf clubs so that he can be in style for his golf class (ha, ha). Who says you can't have fun while learning?

I have loved having Tanner and Brenner out of school for the past two weeks. I know a lot of mom's think I am crazy, but I love having them home. I was actually sad to wake up this morning and send Tanner to school, but life goes on. These boys had an awesome Christmas, I will do a post on Christmas later.

Aaron FINALLY caught up with an old friend, Louie, a couple weeks ago. I met Louie, when Aaron and I were first dating. He was this guy that didn't have a care in the world. He would just bounce from house to house. After Aaron and I got married, as usual, the friends started to disappear. Anyways, Aaron got his number from a relative and finally got a hold of him again. We met up with Louie, Monica, and Evie (their little girl). It's so fun, to see him as a dad. He loves this little girl so much. Anywho, I'm sure your wondering where I am going with this.... my boys have fallen in love with this little Evie. Everytime we go shopping they find little things for Evie, which excites me because pretty soon we will have a LITTLE girl in the family again, and my boys are going to be my little shoppers again. We are so excited, we are counting down the days until Isabelle's arrival.

Aaron and I were released as our wards monthly newsletter "editors" (ha, ha). We have loved that calling, it has kept us in the loop about what is going on. Since we can't make it to church on time we get the announcements to post in the newsletter (ha, ha). Can we say "slackers"?!? Anyways we have been called to teach the 5 year olds in Primary. We have been really excited about this calling, we will be teaching Brenner's class. Brenner's class has a lot of energy, and I am so excited to learn from these little ones. I am hoping that some of that energy will wear off onto us (ha, ha).

Brenner has been taken off his pump and will be on injections for another two months. His body was starting to show a little resistance to the pump, and we were having up to 3 pump failures in a day, very unusual. So after Brenner's appointment with the doc, we came to the conclusion to discontinue the pump until his next appointment. It is amazing how one little mechanism can dramatically change someone's functions. It has been quite a change to go back to injections, but I actually feel better with the injections for right now. The injections aren't as convienient as the pump is, but we actually know he is getting the insulin now, rather than guessing if the pump cathetor is working or not. The pump is a convienient little machine, and we have had to retrain ourselves with the injections. Brenner's doctor has been really awesome, and is checking in on Brenner on a daily basis. Oh how I love doctors that care!

Tanner is another one of our superheros. He is becoming a little bit more independent (YAY!), and is actually asking if he can stay home when I need to run errands. He can't wait for Baseball season to start back up. We ran into some friends a couple weeks ago, and they were asking us if Tanner had comitted to a team for this next year. I looked at them with a puzzled look and said "What do you mean? Baseball doesn't start until April." They laughed and said "Yeah, we know, but people are going to be wanting Tanner, so get ready for the calls." Hearing that made Tanner's (and of course our) night to hear that, and it's has helped boost his confidence. If the snow could just stay up in the mountains, you could find Tanner outside playing baseball.

We are also counting down to meeting up with our missionary...Elder Cavaness! Davey will be arriving in a short 22 days! We are all so excited to see him, Tanner and Brenner keep asking if Davey is really going to remember them. We got to talk to Davey on Christmas, but this time it wasn't on the phone... it was on the webcam. He looks great, and he's actually not wanting to come home (ha, ha) he has really grown to love the people up in his mission. Tanner and Brenner were so excited when he talked to them, they both said to me "mom, he really did remember me!"

Well that's it for right now. I will post later today about other events, but I thought I should probably start my New Years Monday off the right way (ha, ha)

See ya soon!

Where has the time gone?!?

2009-12-12T22:13:00.001-08:00

Okay so I was sitting here talking to Aaron while he was writing his Humanities final (probably not a good idea to do while he's writing it) and I realized that we are almost halfway through December and I haven't posted really anything... where has the time gone?

We have been pretty busy I guess, but it really hasn't seemed like we have been THAT busy.

Tanner is busy going to school and also losing teeth! He will be asking Santa for his two front teeth, and from what the dentist says, he will be "banking" it pretty soon. All of his teeth are coming in and pushing the others out. I'm a little excited to get all these teeth out so we can start some orthodontia treatments (ha, ha). His teeth are HUGE and crooked as well-ha, ha. But he is my cute little "toof"less Tanner. He looks so cute without these teeth! Tanner keeps asking me when he is going to get a retainer...I remember bugging my mom about that when I was little. Tanner is loving school, he got 100% on his spelling test so we rewarded him with a Kong Kone from Macey's grocery store. That thing is ginormous!

Brenner is busy keeping us on his toes with his blood sugars. We actually got some really good news a little bit ago, he no longer needs to be on the gluten-free diet. His blood sugars were so uncontrollably high that we HAD to take him off the diet because of the concern of his blood sugars. The next day after giving him back some gluten his sugars fell back into place. WEIRD! Brenner is also busy going to pre-school and he LOVES it! This last week was a little rough on him though, so he didn't go this week. His pump site failed three time during the night this week, so that kept him up and tired him (and me) out. He can't wait to go to school this next week, so he "can get ready for his Christmas singing day program". His preschool teacher is the best!

Aaron is finishing up his final for Humanities as we speak. He has loved going to college and I hope that this "like" for college continues. He has already signed up for next semester and boy is he going to be busy. He will be taking 10 credits along with working full time. Good thing one of those credits is a golf class. That will be a great de-stresser (I hope)! He actually was a good sport and let my friend (that does my hair), wax his chest. He said it killed, but he was happy to help her get one of her "tasks" completed. He can't wait for this year to be over so he can have more vacation days (ha, ha).

I am just hanging out being a mom. It's seriously the best job ever! There is NEVER a dull moment, even during the middle of the night. I got to attend the best Enrichment night ever on Tuesday. Season, one of my bestest friends, did an AWESOME job! She is so stinkin' talented, I wish I had her brains! These boys (all 3 of them) keep me laughing, crying from laughing everyday. I am going to re-teach my self how to snowboard, as soon as we have enough snow to do this. For my birthday this year, Aaron bought be a snowboard, and so I have decided that I AM going to re-learn how to do this again. Hopefully I wont break anything...no promises though!

So I have to share this awesome idea before I finish. My niece, Courtney thought up this awesome idea. I really wanted to do it and so I hope she doesn't mind that I took her idea. She has this awesome Elf that sits in the Christmas tree, and watches how well her kids behave. During the night, the magical Elf comes to life and goes back to Santa and reports how the kids are doing. Each morning they find the Elf in a different place. Well I found our service Elf we had gotten at a Relief Society night. I decided that he was going to be our Elf that would watch us. Well the boys have loved this, they actually will go up to "Buddy" (yes, that's what the boys named him) and talk to him. This idea has been the best thing ever. If there's a problem I will remind them about Buddy, and the arguing or whatever is happening stops. It's seriously the greatest thing ever, so thanks Courtney for sharing that with me. I'm just wondering now, would it be terrible if I left the tree up all year? (ha, ha--totally kidding!).

We are getting so excited to be welcoming a little girl into our family in January! We will finally have a little girl after 15 years in our family! We can't wait for her safe arrival! We are also getting ready to welcome home a missionary that will be arriving on the 26th of January! We are getting so excited for his arrival. My boys keep asking me if Elder Davey is going to remember them. I think they will be a little "shy" when he returns, but that shyness will quickly disappear! We can't wait for all these new things that will be happening. What an exciting life!

Well that's it for now, I need to get my little critters in bed. Hope all is well!

We're Private!

2009-12-05T18:58:00.001-08:00

Okay so I we are now private, but after noticing how many readers we are allowed, so I "might" be going back to an "open" blog... we'll see.

The reason why we/I have decided to make our blog private is because I am not sure I like unknown looters out there to be able to see my family. We are also doing this for our extened family's safety. There was a unfortunate event that took place this past week, and we are wanting to keep this blog private for right now, so that we can keep this family member safe... so please just bear with us.

The only part that I am unsure about having this as a private blog is that, a lot of T-1 (type 1)families will search for other "diabetic" families to connect with. It's nice to actually have someone that can completely relate with you.

So, anyways not too much to shout about right now... we'll see how long we stay "private".

Thanks for visiting!

Going private

2009-11-29T21:30:00.000-08:00

Well after much deliberation, we have decided to make our blog private. We'll see how long this will last (ha, ha). We will be going "private" on December 5. If you would like to be invited to view our blog, please send me an e-mail at crystal(dot)schnabel(at)gmail(dot)com, and I will send you an invite.

Way to go Cougars! (and SO much more)

2009-11-28T22:19:00.001-08:00

Way to go Cougars, 26-23!

Every one is so upset about Max Hall's comment... does anyone remember this prior to the 2004 Rivalry game?

"I hate 'em...... I hate 'em with a f*&%$ passion. Ever since the day I was born."

University of Utah Safety -Morgan Scalley 2004.

How come no one remembers that????

Black & Blue Friday!

2009-11-28T21:29:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was such an exciting day, it was Black friday! I was seriously so excited to go shopping, I really didn't have much on my list, but I just love being out in that rush. The only problem was I hadn't gotten much sleep during the week. I was so exhausted by Thanksgiving evening, I was even questioning myself if I wanted to REALLY go out. I made plans with my neice Courtney, to meet her at Walmart at 4 am.

I decided to get some shut-eye before shopping which was prolly a great idea. The next thing I know I am waking up from a dream (about shopping--ha, ha), and the clock says 6 am! I was freaking out! I missed all the good deals! I woke Aaron up and we debated on if we wanted to go knowing we had missed the deals. We ended up walking into Walmart about 6:30 and actually getting the deals! Now the next thing I was dreading was standing in line, the lines were insanse, but of course they would be. Then the intelligent fairy hit me, and I remembered the jewelry counter. We walked right up to the counter, had the associate price match everything, and we were on our merry way! We walked out of Walmart at 7 am! After hitting Walmart, we were done shopping! We decided to meet Aaron's family for breakfast, so we went and picked up our sleepy boys and had breakfast with the fam damily. It was so fun!

We came back home got re-charged and began our BYU/UTAH RIVALRY decorating party. Aaron's family got our house really well last year. They vandalized our home with Utah decorations. So this year we had to show them up... and we did. My awesome nieces and nephews came and helped us take care of business! Luckily Aaron's family helped shave a lot of hours off of decorating, we re-used their decorations and corrected them. It's nice to see blue on that home! Here are some of our decorating skills:

My favorite picture!

Gooooo Cougars!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-28T21:09:00.000-08:00

Okay so I am a HUGE slacker, I had realized I didn't post anything about what I/we are thankful for, so eventhough I am a little late I am still going to do it:

We are thankful for our healthy family, without them life would be soooo boring!

We are thankful for our extended families, who would we laugh at/with?

We are thankful for our wonderful friends and neighbors who are a great support to us.

We are thankful for our Church, and all of it's many blessings.

We are thankful for teachers especially those who understand our kids.

We are thankful for doctors, need I say more?

We are thankful for our boys, without them we would be SOOOO lost

We are thankful for humor, who says laughing doesn't cure a sad heart?

We are also thankful for the JDRF and the support they give to our family. (Everytime we see something that has to do with the JDRF, Brenner thinks it's a party for HIM- ha, ha!).

We are thankful for Aaron's job, eventhough at times things might be stressful, we are thankful to have a job.

I am so thankful for Aaron and all his hard work. With him working full-time and going to school he still comes home and has time to play with the boys, and just chill out with me! I am thankful for everything he does for our family, he is seriously the BEST soul mate anyone could ask for. I know there are days he would love to just be "done" with work, but he is always putting our family first and making sure our needs are met. You are the BEST Aaron!

We are thankful for our jeep. Without that jeep, we probably would be stranded (ha, ha)

We are thankful for our missionaries that are out serving.

We are thankful to our men in uniform that are out protecting us and our country. Thank you to all you military wives, husbands and families!

There are so many other things we are thankful, and if I could list all of them on here I would be here all night.

We are greatful for you! Even though you might not see us everyday, or not ever see us. Thanks for making us feel important!

Happy Thanksgiving!

In-n-Out is FINALLY here!

2009-11-28T21:03:00.000-08:00

I just have to say how excited we are to finally have an In-n-Out here in Draper! It has been a big deal since we found out it was coming. Before it opened Tanner and Brenner would beg me EVERYDAY to take them by In-n-Out to see how it was coming along. They were more excited about this than they were about Christmas. We went and stood in line the day it opened (about an hour) and had our first "Draper In-n-Out Burger". Of course Brenner and my burgers were "protein style" but they were still so YUMMY! The only sad part about having an In-n-Out here is now I'm really hoping my pants will still fit me after Christmas (ha, ha)!

Update with Gluten-free living

2009-11-28T20:34:00.000-08:00

Wow, I just realized that I hadn't posted much this month. What a terrible "blogger" I am (ha, ha). This whole new gluten-free diet has put me in low gear. Where do I start? Well let's begin right here (ha, ha)...

On Monday morning I got a call from Brenner's doctor telling me what was going on with Brenner. His lab tests came back "presumptive" for Celiac Sprue and that he still has one antibody that is keeping him from the "total" celiac sprue diagnosis, and the only way to actually find out if he does have Celiac Sprue is to put him on a 6 week gluten-free diet. See how his body reacts to this gluten-free living, and then go from there. I had so many questions, and Brenner's doctor was really patient with me. I asked him what made him want to test for Celiac, and he stated that they wanted to test him because:

1. He had lost 4 pounds since his last visit

2. His A1C is SLOWLY coming down

3. Sorry to be so graphic, but he is having diarrhea at least 4-5 times a week, (sorry again!)

4. Gluten can be the reason to all of these problems.

So I was a little relieved to find out that he may NOT have Celiac, and he may. It all depends on how his body reacts to this diet.

The next day I got another call from the doctor, apologizing about worrying me. He had told me that he took Brenner's chart home with him and went over everything. He told me to continue this 6 week gluten-free diet, but after going over Brenner's chart he realized that Brenner had just gotten over being sick with the lovely Swine flu. He said the weight loss is so dramatic especially with a 4 year old (why couldn't I be so lucky and lose 4 pounds?!?), that it really concerned him. He said the only way to find out if he does have it is to either do this 6 week diet, or to take a biopsy of his intestine. I opted for the 6 week diet, for some reason I don't like people messing with my kids. After that conversation, I was more relieved, but still freaking out about the cost of gluten-free food. It is EXPENSIVE!

My awesome friend, Season gave me a TON of gluten-free food to try because so many gluten-free foods are disgusting. She seriously has the biggest heart, and I hope she knows how much we appreciate everything she has done for our family. It's been nice to "sample" these foods and know which ones taste good, and which ones don't. The sad thing is all of the food she gave us, has tasted really good so far, so yes I like it (ha, ha). I could take on this gluten-free diet as my NEW lifestyle, but I'm pretty sure my bank account wouldn't like it (ha, ha), but I will do whatever it takes for my little Brenner.

I decided to try and eat the food Brenner is eating and so far, and it probably was a good thing I did do this especially around the holiday with him. I didn't eat any pies, breads or stuffings, etc. on Thanksgiving, so hopefully my pants will still fit me after the holidays (ha, ha).

We have been to a couple of restaurants to see how Brenner handles eating gluten-free at restaurants. He has been AWE.SO.ME! He understands what is going on, and why we are doing this. The restaurants have been awesome as well. Kudos to Burger King, In-n-Out, Spaghetti Factory, and Wendys, thanks for helping us out as well!

We will go back in just before Christmas to see how everything looks. If all is well, we will be eating regular people food! My fingers are crossed!

Happy World Diabetes Day!

2009-11-14T14:03:00.001-08:00

So today has been much like a whirlwind, or maybe more like a snowstorm, since yes it is snowing. I woke up this morning thinking "today is going to be a fantastic day, we have so much to do, and it's going to be great." Don't get me wrong it has been great, but we had a little bit of news that has put a damper on my day. It all started like this...

This morning our boys had their primary program practice, since I need to stay close for Brenner, I hung out in chapel watching the program. All was well, everyone was singing their little hearts out (well except for those "cool" 12 year olds), and my phone rang. I didn't know who was calling me (yes I do screen my calls-ha, ha) and so I decided to pick up the phone. It was the lab calling to let me know that my little Brenner has tested postive for Celiac. My heart sunk, it was like a bad dream. I kept rubbing my eyes to make sure I wasn't really asleep. While the person from lab was talking to me, she said "Now this is the preliminary, we'll see what the final result comes back as." That gave me hope for a few more seconds until I realized, when a positive comes back it's going to be positive. I am still hoping and crossing my fingers that maybe somehow this girl has read the result wrong... fingers crossed. I took the news as best as I could, but I knew that if someone were to ask me how things were going I was going to break down. I got off the phone, and just sat there. I looked down at the floor trying not to make any eye contact because I knew if I did the floodgates were going to open.

Well my AWESOME friend Season sat down next to me, and the first thing she said was "how are things going?" I tried to cover up my emotions, but that didn't last too long. Before I knew it, I was in tears. I got up quickly before my boys could see me, and I walked outside. I thought to myself and I realized that yes things are going to be okay, but now another hurdle for my little 5 year old to jump. He already is limited to what he should eat, and now we have another limit on what he can eat. It just broke my heart to think of what is going to go through Brenner's head when I need to explain to him that we need to adjust things again.

Okay so I was excited to do a post on World Diabetes Day, but my emotions have got the best of me, and I really can't think of any thing clever to write. I visited my friend Shamae's blog earlier today and she wrote the best analogy. I really wanted to share this on my blog and I hope she doesn't mind and understands (thanks in advance Shamae--you rock!)...

Parenting a child with a disease such as Type 1 Diabetes does more than just affect Brenner's physical health. It is a mental and emotional challenge for the entire family. It's like fighting a battle that doesn't end. Some days you're stronger. Other days you struggle but if you quit--well you just can't quit.

Are you familiar with a refiners fire and it's purpose?

If you were to visit a silver smith and watch him work, you would notice that in order to finish a piece of silver the smith must use special equipment that holds the silver over the fire to heat it up. When refining silver one must put the silver in the very center of the flames, where they are hottest. This will burn away impurities and strengthen the metal. Although it may seem counter productive to heat something so intensely that it should be destroyed, this is actually the process to make the metal the strongest it can be.

It's the same with us--with me. Type 1 Diabetes is my refiners fire. It is my son's refiners fire. I hold fast to the belief that even though it "burns" and it seems the fire should destroy me, it doesn't. In fact, what should be my demise is actually strengthening me so that I am the strongest I can be. In turn, this allows me to help other's through their "fire."

Everyone has their own refiners fire throughout life--we will go through many different kinds of refining fires. When it seems we should give up and succumb to the heat, remember, just as a silver smith uses the fire to make his metal strong and durable--to withstand almost everything--we go through our trials which will build us, mold us, and make us strong and durable.

Through my fire I have learned a few lessons:

1) I am stronger than I thought possible--it's that refiners fire working it's magic. :)

2) It's ok to let people help me. I'm not supposed to be able to do it all alone.

3) My math skills are better than I thought they were.

4) It's ok to cry sometimes and it's ok to let people see me cry.

5) I will go to lengths I didn't know possible to ensure that Brenner gets what he needs both physically and emotionally.

6) We have friends for a reason. You remember the equipment I talked about above? The equipment that holds and supports the silver while it's being refined? Those are friends. I have the best friends. They hold me and support me. I love them dearly. They are close enough to my fire that sometimes they too get "burned." But they don't leave me. For that, I'm so grateful.

So, my question for you, whether you live with diabetes or not, what is your refiners fire? Have you grown because of it? This little boy below is why I endure our fire. It's shaping and strengthening us. We don't always like it, but it has it's benefits. And, when it comes to our children, who wouldn't walk through fire for them?

Happy World Diabetes Day

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-03T21:19:00.000-08:00

Happy Haunting!

I can't believe that Halloween has already come, where has the time gone? This year Tanner & Brenner wanted to be Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. I said "Okay, but I am NOT buying those el cheapo costumes, you'll freeze your hineys off. Plus these wont be expensive to make." Well I could've bought the el cheapo costumes because it wasn't too cold and it WOULD'VE been cheaper to just buy the costume. Oh well, lesson learned!

So being the procrastinator that I am, I waited and waited until I seriously clued in that no store was selling green sweats this year. I toyed with the idea of having my awesome mother-in-law make some fleece clothes, until she told me to dye their sweats. So I got all giddy and went and bought some green Rit dye. Well after washing and dying the sweats 20 times (No joke, I'm not even kidding!). We finally had some dark green sweats. Wahoo!

In the meantime of dying the sweats is when we all (except for Aaron) came down with the piggie flu. It was a disaster! While in the process of the sweat dying, coughing my head off (I felt like I had a helium balloon head--ha, ha), fevering, I made the turtle stomachs and was off to making the turtle shells. What a HEADACHE! I broke 4 sewing needles and hadn't even finished one shell, so after the 4th needle I decided that felt was going to have to do for the shell effect. I didn't feel well and this sewing machine wasn't helping--ha, ha!

Even though the boys were sick they still had just a dab of energy to keep asking when their costumes would be done. They were so excited! I was too, when the costumes were FINALLY complete. The boys were so excited to be able to wear their costumes three times during the week of Halloween. I was so happy they got to wear them as much as they did because that was a lot of work especially when I felt like crap.

On Halloween, Aaron and the boys dressed up. I did not however...I was just a mom. Aaron's costume was a hit with everyone we saw. He had me and my sister Jennifer laughing the entire time we were out... I think people thought we were drunk (ha, ha)...we were, drunk off laughter!

I thought I would post some pictures of the boys in their Halloween costumes, and I had to post a couple videos of Aaron in his costume. I'm sorry if it's shaky, I was laughing SO hard, and yes that is me wheezing -ha, ha. So I just noticed that the videos are sideways, so tilt your head and watch...guaranteed it's HIL.AR.IOUS!

Hope you all had a great Halloween, we sure did!

Oh NO, you didn't!

2009-10-28T14:49:00.000-07:00

So last week a letter was sent to the Idaho State Journal last week by a Wallace Barber that went something like this....

Complaint

"On Oct. 3, myself and my girlfriend were eating lunch at Burger King. A family came in and sat across the aisle from us. While the father was ordering food, we were shocked and appalled to see a boy inject himself with whatever medication, in front of God and everybody all while sitting at the table. We found this extremely offensive. That sort of business should be done in private. How about a little respect for those around you. Other than the obvious fact that it's not sanitary for those who use the table next, you have no idea how something like that can affect people. People go through a lot in their life and things like that may bring up certain feelings and memories best forgotten. I would like to thank those that day for totally ruining my meal."

This has fired up many T-1 (type 1) moms, yes me! After reading Shamae's blog I really wanted to send a letter to the Idaho State Journal, but the swine flu got the best of me. Shamae also lives up in Idaho and she crafted this awesome response, I am awaiting to hear if her response is published (I REALLY hope it is). Here is Shamae's response to Wallace Barber:

"In response to Wallace Barber’s “Complaint” Letter to the Editor on October 25, 2009. I don’t know the family you are talking about that so greatly offended you and your girlfriend while eating at Burger King but I would imagine, from what you described, that this boy has Type 1 Diabetes. Due to your obvious ignorance, maybe you should research this disease a little bit before letting his life saving medication ruin your lunch. You act as though he were shooting up with an intravenous drug and not having to take insulin to stay alive. Nobody forced you to stare while he gave himself a shot (something he HAS to do at least 4-6 times a day to stay alive.) Didn’t your mother teach you that staring is rude anyway? This boy has to count every carbohydrate he eats or drinks and give himself insulin—via injection—to attempt to regulate his sugar levels or else he will die. In your ignorance you have failed to realize that not all persons are blessed with perfect health. Some people have to take certain measures in order to stay healthy and, in the case of Type 1 Diabetes, stay alive. Now, before you spout off at the mouth again and get Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes mixed up, let me enlighten you. Type 1 is an autoimmune disease. There is nothing that can prevent it and nothing to cure it. You can just do your best to manage it and hope that eventually this disease doesn’t claim your eyes, limbs, kidneys, heart, and your life.

I do not know what has gone on in your past in order for you to say, “Things like that may bring up certain feelings and memories best forgotten.” If you have so much past baggage that you can’t stand a little boy giving himself medicine that keeps him alive then maybe you should seek counseling. If you can’t stand the fact that this young boy needs to take medicines while out to eat; eat at home. And maybe try understanding someone else’s plight before jumping to your biased conclusions. If I haven’t said so already, your girlfriend must be one lucky lady to have such a boyfriend who can’t get rid of the skeletons in his closet and has to place blame on a little boy who needs multiple daily shots to stay alive. We all have things in our past that we don’t like dug up; however, I would never imagine placing my insecurities on a person, especially a child, who is just trying to survive.

You mentioned this injection was not sanitary to those around you. How exactly? Did they throw the needle at you? Did they squirt blood on you? How was this unsanitary? He needs medicine at meal times. Where would you prefer him to do it? The bathroom? Do you think that is more sanitary? You asked for respect, maybe you should try giving some. Do you really lack the compassion for others so much that you have the audacity to complain about a child trying to live? Just remember, this thing that you claim is so disgusting we do, not because we enjoy it, but because we want to keep our kids alive.

Maybe you are wondering how I know about this? My 6 year old daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes a year and a half ago at the age of 4. This little boy you are talking about did nothing to provoke this disease—neither did my daughter or any other person living with Type 1 Diabetes. They are forced to live with it everyday until a cure is found. What they need is compassion and understanding, not ignorance."

Way to go SHAMAE, thanks for standing up for us! You put a ginormous smile on my face!

Another T-1 mom, Tiburon, sent in a letter... I think mine would have been a lot like hers, I was so fired up after reading that letter from Wally. Shamae you kept your cool unlike me (ha, ha)... Here is Tiburon's response to Wally:

You stupid, ignorant piece of &@#%*! It's a good thing you aren't standing in front of me right now because I would grab you by your ^#&#*@* and &*(#*@ and then I would kick you in your #*$%&%^&. After that I would punch your &$*% and take your *#*!@ and pull it up over your #&!&@. When you were on the ground moaning and wailing I would kick you in your $&%*^% and then shove a #^$&*# in your *#*@!%. And that would just be the beginning.

I am so sorry that your meal at the Burger King was ruined by a little boy trying to stay alive. How ^&#^!@$% thoughtless and inconsiderate of him. He should have just gone into a diabetic coma at the *&#$%@ table. It would have been so much more sanitary for him to go into diabetic ketoacidosis and vomit all over the *&#%@#$* restaurant. I am sure that would have made your $^&@#$ meal so much more enjoyable. Perhaps he could have had a seizure. Maybe you would have &%$@#* enjoyed that a little bit more.

What kind of &#@*#($ person attacks an innocent child over a disease that he has no control over? Your girlfriend is one lucky lady. You want to know the worst part of being the parent of a child with type 1 diabetes? It isn't the constant worrying or the staying up all night checking sugars or the doctors appointments or the guilt or the challenge. It is dealing with idiots like you.

Bite me,
Tiburon

I just noticed that on Shamae's comments that there are so many people fired up about this, that they aren't accepting any more responses to Mr. Barber's letter. They have received so many responses that they may even do an article on this... I'll keep you posted.

Just note though... NEVER, EVER, EVER mess with a T-1 mom!

Again

2009-10-22T21:26:00.000-07:00

Yes it's true, we have been confirmed with the swine flu again. This is the most recent picture I took of me (ha, ha).

Brenner, Tanner, my dad, and I have the swine flu. I seriously would not wish this on my worst enemy. I would rather have strep throat, than this. This is the most miserable I have ever been, even next to childbirth. I would actually rather have another child than have this.

Brenner's doctor has been really awesome and has been checking on him to see how he's doing. It can get really scary at times because of his diabetes. As of right now, Brenner is doing great, but that could change any moment. His doctor is really awesome!

Tanner is doing good, just really lethargic. He's not himself, but he'll be back soon.

The thing that's the worst right now is.... today is Aaron's birthday, and this is the third year in a row, we all have been sick. I have proposed that Aaron change his birthday to another day (ha, ha). I feel so bad because we can't even treat him to dinner this year ON his birthday. I did manage to get him a birthday present while picking up the famous Tamiflu.... Aaron got an iPod touch. The boys were really excited to give it to him because they knew how bad he wanted one. I don't know who was more excited, the boys or him (ha, ha).

It has been a pretty quiet night... every one is listening to their iPod, and trying to get rid of the swine flu. I was hoping to do a post about Aaron for his birthday, but I am starting to get restless again, so I may have to make up for that...maybe next week when we celebrate his birthday without pigs.

Happy Birthday Aaron, we love you!

Awwww...

2009-10-13T11:12:00.000-07:00

Yep, these are our boys!

School pictures arrived today, and I HAD to show them off. Aren't they so cute? I think so, but I may be a "little"...just a titch biased. These boys are the best, and we love them so much! They are loving school, and also getting smarter and smarter each day.

Brenner's 5 Today!

2009-10-12T07:56:00.000-07:00

Today is an exciting day at the Schnabel home....it's Brenner's 5th birthday! As I sit here and think about what it's been like for the last 5 years, all I can do is smile. This little guy has brought so much joy and fun to our little family. Brenner has this sense of humor that is hilariuos, but he also has a really, really soft side. He is completely different than his brother, and that's just fine. We all need to be ourselves, right? He tells you exactly how he feels, he lets you know when there's a problem, and he will not be outspoken (ha, ha).

He has been such an awesome trooper since his diagnosis with diabetes. He's a little fighter, and I'm not even joking. These past 2 (almost 3) years have been a little overwhelming for Brenner (and us), but you would never know. People will ask how does Brenner handle diabetes, and we answer "He handles it a lot better, than we do."

Raising a Type 1 child can be an interesting process. A lot of the care we give Brenner becomes second nature. It's not the way the average 5 year old lives, but we make it work. We deal with the highs and lows (both physically and emotionally). Sometimes we wing it and sometimes we have a plan. Sometimes for brief moments, every once in a while, we forget that he has diabetes. He runs and plays and doesn't drop low. He doesn't have a nagging mother checking the color of his face, or watching to see if he is acting out of the norm-both indicative of a low. We love those brief moments--probably because they come few and far between.

Diabetes doesn't take a vacation. The nights can be especially rough because I want to be sleeping but I know there is a little boy who needs me to be there for him, and he is counting on me. I don't know how many times he has dropped low during the night--I lost count a long time ago. Lately it's been happening a lot. Almost everynight for the past two weeks, I have to wake him up in the middle of the night and he has had to drink at least one juice box, maybe even two.

We repeat this ritual a couples times a night...day after day. We cling to the hope that one day we will cure this disease and I can let him sleep through the night without disturbing his sleep.

Anyways, Brenner has been an awesome addition to our family, and we love him VERY much.

Here are some things Brenner likes:

He loves his brother Tanner

He loves to be busy

He loves movies (he loves chic flicks already...he'll be a great date!)

He loves to go shopping

He loves to wrestle with his Grandpa

He loves to play baseball

He loves to sing

He loves the Jonas Brothers

He loves to be with his cousins

He loves In-N-Out Burger... good thing one is comin' down the street

He loves to do anything with the JDRF

He's very patient

He always asks if he can have something before he eats it. He's stronger than me (ha, ha)!

He talks, and talks, and talks

He loves Preschool

He is always asking for a new baby brother or sister... luckily we'll have one in January (thanks Whitney!)

I can't believe that it's already been 5 years since this handsome little guy joined our family. It has been the best 5 years and I am excited to see what more years bring us.

Happy 5th Birthday Brenner!

We love you!

(party pictures to come soon!)

Goodbye Summer!

2009-09-30T21:03:00.000-07:00

Well now that I have decided that Summer is officially over (yes, we got snowed on today), I thought I would give my official goodbye to Summer.

Goodbye Summer 2009!

We had an awesome fundraising dinner for Brenner and the JDRF. Thanks to all who came out and supported us, we can't thank you enough!

We have some awesome neighbors move in across the street. It has been so much fun sitting out on the front porch, having our nightly chats (aka therapy sesssions -ha, ha). What are we going to do now?

We had a wonderful trip down to St. George with my side of our family. What a blast!

We have had a wonderful start to preschool, 1st Grade, and college!

Getting to meet the Jonas Brothers!

Visiting the new Oquirrh Temple

We had an awesome number of supporters show up to the JDRF walk. Thanks for walking with us!

We bought a new bed! Yes, after two years of sleeping in twin beds (another long story--I'll do a post when everything is complete).
We got to see the new baby elephant, giraffe, and snow leopard. That baby elephant is worth paying the $9.00 to see. Luckily we got in for free thanks to the American Diabetes walk (ha, ha). That baby elephant is the cutest animal I have EVER seen.

Here are some things we have learned this summer...

No matter what baseball league you are playing in (T-Ball, Coach pitch, etc.), it is NOT okay to miss a game... ask my boys (ha, ha)!
No matter how nervous you are about starting school, you still have to go!

No matter if you just changed a pump site, it can still go bad within the same day...diabetes has started to get on my nerves again!

No matter how late it is, you can still talk, and talk, and talk (thanks for the nightly chats Season)

No matter how "inexpensive" (if that's what you call it) it is to go to Lagoon, you still can't talk your little boy into riding any "fun" rides (ha, ha...thanks Brenner for the memory).
No matter what mom says, dad will over rule (ha, ha) ***story will come later---it's all good folks!

No matter if you have set a schedule, "someone" will always screw it up.

No matter how much time you spent working on a car, doesn't mean that it's going to work the next day (ha, ha)

A trip to midway, is one of the greatest escapes (thanks again to our awesome neighbors)

Anxiety can kick in at anytime...I hate anxiety!

I completely forgot this one... it sometimes takes a village to raise a child, or at least help them cross the street (ha, ha). Thanks for the reminder Season
The Swine Flu sucks

We have had SOOOO much fun this summer, and we can't wait for winter to come as we will be...

welcoming a missionary home, Elder Cavaness! (Elder Quinn will be returning in October 2010!!)

welcoming a baby girl in our family, finally after 15 years ...wahoo!

waiting for In-N-Out to be complete in Draper! Can I get a woot, woot?!?

planning another fantastic fundraising night for the JDRF, stay tuned!

Anyone want a used pole?

2009-09-23T09:09:00.000-07:00

This is hilarious, enjoy!

(make sure you pause the music at the bottom, so you can hear the video)

Just wondering if anyone would like a "slightly" used pole?

Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha

Dear Santa, I know it's REALLY early, but....

2009-09-17T09:17:00.001-07:00

I really want one of these...

I think it would be so much fun, and I could even tote my boys around in this...

what do you think?

1st day of Preschool!

2009-09-09T14:51:00.000-07:00

Today was Brenner's first day of preschool, and it couldn't have come any sooner for him. He was so excited to go that he was up at the crack of dawn, when I mean crack of dawn I mean 5:30! I was so excited for him but also very very anxious!

We met with his teacher last week, to give her the rundown on what to do for Brenner and his diabetes and she was ready to take him on. She handled it better than I thought, she is an awesome teacher. I still was very nervous to send him today fearing that I might have missed something I should've remembered to tell her.

Before Brenner headed to school, we had to drop Tanner off at his school, so of course I had to get another picture of them together. After dropping Tanner off at school, Brenner said to me "Let's hit the road, mom!" He was so excited he could hardly sit in his seat the entire way. As soon as we drove up, he jumped out of the car and said "We'll see ya later!" Of course I wasn't going to let him get away like that (ha, ha). Plus I have to walk inside to check out the treats, so I can give his teacher the "go ahead" to either let him eat the entire treat or not.

While I was waiting for the treat to arrive, Brenner kept coming up to me and saying "Mom, you can go already." I just laughed because he is NOTHING like his brother. At least Tanner let me know that he was going to miss me (ha, ha). As I sat there and watched him play, I was so excited for him to make new friends, but so nervous about what could happen if we aren't careful with his blood sugar. As I walked out to the car, I was second guessing myself about what I had told his teacher. I wanted to turn back around and go back in, but I finally told myself and was comforted knowing he was going to be okay.

While he was at school, I was lost puppy. I didn't really know what to do, it was so weird not to hear his little voice. It made me sad to think my baby boy is growing up, oh the things that make me want time to go backwards (ha, ha).

When I returned to pick him up, he was so excited to be able to tell me all he did while at school. He loved every minute of it, and actually didn't want to leave (ha, ha). His sugar readings were awesome and he was happy.

What a great start to preschool!

Thanks a Million! (Pictures to come!)

2009-08-31T21:21:00.000-07:00

Saturday was an exciting day at the Schnabel house, we took part in the JDRF's Walk to Cure diabetes. It was such a fun day, and Brenner got to spend this day with his friends that are fighting for a cure for him.

I got there early because I am on the walk committee, and had a ball getting everything together before the walk took place. It was fun to see everything start to fall into place. As we hurried around getting everything ready I chatted with a couple other moms about their child's diabetes, I realized how lucky we are to have the support we have. The JDRF is the best!

We were lucky enough to have 50 walkers with Brenner's Brigade, and it made Brenner's day to have that many people walking for him. He kept asking me that day "Mom, is my diabetes going to go away today?!?" He thought that after the walk, his diabetes would dissappear...oh how I wish!

Even though I say at times "I am happy we have diabetes instead of some incurable condition." Diabetes is hard! Brenner is one heck of a trooper. He has been at critically high stages with his diabetes and it's been hard on him (and us). He is very disciplined with food, and asks before he puts anything in his mouth if he can have it. It breaks my heart, but I'm so glad he's aware that he can't just pop things in his mouth without asking. We try to make it that diabetes is nothing in our house, because we don't want Brenner to feel like he's the odd duck. To be honest with you IT'S.A.BIG.DEAL! It's hard on us, but we don't let Brenner see that. We are up all hours of the night checking on him. Some people say, it's just like having a newborn at home...it's worse (ha, ha)! Newborns actually let you sleep for an hour or so.

This year's theme for the walk was "Be a Hero, Find a Cure" and we just want to thank everyone for being our hero and walking with us. It meant a lot to us, hopefully soon we will be able to sleep through the night (ha, ha).

1st Day of 1st Grade!

2009-08-27T08:05:00.000-07:00

Our First Grader!

Well today I officially have a 1st Grader. Tanner was so excited he could hardly wait to get to school. I on the other hand didn't want him to go. I know it sounds strange, but I LOVE having my boys home with me. I love the sound of two boys laughing together, wrestling, and just hanging out. I am going to miss that!

For all you that are wondering...YES.I.CRIED! I cried like a baby (I am a baby-ha, ha). Yesterday I just kept looking at Tanner, and he would say to me "Why do you keep looking at me?" I of course would say "because you are so darn cute," but it really was because I can't believe how fast he is growing. If I could have MY way, and the support I would totally homeschool my boys. I know A LOT of people would disagree with that decision, but I just love having them with me. CRAZY, I know!

I am just realizing how fast time goes, and how I wish I had quit working a long time ago so I could have enjoyed these boys more. Don't get me wrong, I loved work (at the time), but looking back I wish I would've stayed home from the moment I had Tanner.

Another reason I am having such a hard time, is I have TERRIBLY high anxiety [yes I am working on it :)], but sometimes it is uncontrollable. I am nervous to send my boy to school and trust this teacher to take AWESOME care of Tanner. I am nervous that he's going to starve, I am nervous that he might not come in at recess (I went over that SO MANY times with him...this happened last year, and the teacher didn't know he was missing). I have had "nightmares" about that. I know who ever is reading this probably thinks I am crazy...I probably am! This is what happens after you have kids...you become attached.

I also realized that my boy is going to be spending more time at school than he will be with me...that's what makes me sad. Enjoy your time with your little ones....seriously!

All in all though, Brenner is walking around (and so am I) like a lost puppy! Brenner will be starting school in a couple weeks, and then it will be me walking around like a lost puppy. What's a lost puppy to do? Suggestions welcomed.

First Day of School (College)

2009-08-26T10:26:00.000-07:00

Future Engineer!

Today was Aaron's first day of school, and I knew he would feel left out if I didn't take a picture of him before he left (ha, ha--kidding...he really didn't want me to, but I did anyway!-ha, ha). I am so excited for Aaron to start school back up, and I know he is going to do a great job.

Yesterday when we were picking up Aaron's textbooks, Brenner said "Mom, Dad is going to miss us so much while he's at school," but I think it's the other way. These boys are going to miss Aaron like crazy, but luckily he will still have time to play with these boys. I am NOT looking forward to Tanner starting school tomorrow and then Brenner starting in two weeks. I am going to be so lonely...ugh! Seriously, what am I going to do?

Aaron called me this morning after his first class, and loved it. I.AM.SO.GLAD! He is taking 9 credits this semester, I know it's going to be hard, but I know he can do it!

We're all behind you Aaron, go get 'em!

Come Walk with Us!

2009-08-19T13:24:00.001-07:00

We are counting down the days to the JDRF "Walk to Cure Diabetes". 10 days! We would love to have as many people walk with Brenner's Brigade. So... if you are free Saturday morning (August 29th) from 8:30-11:00 we would LOVE to have you walk with us. It really is fun!

This walk is so fun and there are so many activities for the kids to do (bounce houses--bring swimsuits, magician, classic car show, breakfast, lunch) and it is for an awesome cause...to help us find a cure for Brenner and other's suffering from this chronic illness.

If you would like to walk with us we would so love it. Please click on this --->Brenner's Brigade to register to walk. You don't have to fundraise, just come and have fun at the walk.

If you are interested in donating to Brenner's team please click here and you can donate any amount. The best part is you can pay with a credit card!! Any amount donated is greatly appreciated!

Thanks again for being Brenner's hero!

St. George, Lizard Hunting, & Swimming

2009-08-14T13:08:00.000-07:00

Okay so I know your thinking "what's going on with my hair" well it's called wind (ha, ha). I know my hair is all over the place in the picture, that's why I am not in many pictures (ha, ha)

So last week we meandered down south for a little R & R. It was nice to get away from the everyday things and just hang out and relax. We had planned on taking the boys to Las Vegas, and also to Zions Canyon. Once we were down in St. George all they wanted to do was swim and catch lizards, and "hang out" with the cousins. I can't believe it's already been a week since this vacation...time is flying too fast!

I will say we were all kinda bummed when we got down there and noticed that the outdoor pool had been drained, but we didn't let that ruin our fun. We were lucky enough to have a indoor pool, so we didn't have to worry about sunscreen or sun stroke. (Brenner tends to get sun stroke really quick if he's been outside for longer than 2 hours at a time. Once he's sick, I'm sick with worry the entire time-ha, ha).

Each night after a day of swimming we would find all of the boys ages 2-44 "frog hunting". Each time a frog was caught the door would open with one of the younger kids yelling "we caught another frog!" Of course, they would let it go, but not after a little argument with a mom (usually me- ha, ha). The boys also had pillow fights almost everynight, along with pillow sliding (running and jumping on a pillow on the hardwood).

Almost everyday we found ourselves hiking the rock just above the temple. The boys had a blast, and if we weren't swimming they wanted to go hiking, or maybe to find lizards (wink, wink)

Friday night Scott & April brought this game that was so much fun. It was fun to watch people (a.k.a. Grandma Quinn) get competitive. Scott & April's family always brings the funnest game ideas. After the game the front room turned into a wrestling match. The boys loved it!

In-n-Out burger was one of the places we frequented. So yes, that's another reason why I look the way I do (ha, ha). No seriously! My boys love In-N-Out and can't wait until the one is built here in Draper. I actually took them to McDonalds today, and they looked at the hamburger they got and said "Mom, I actually wanted an In-N-Out burger" (ha, ha).

Everyone headed for home Saturday night, exept our family and my brother Todd's family. We decided to spend our last night at the Marriott Towneplace Suites. Let me just say, I will stay there again. It was like another home away from home, it was so nice. We also got to swim outside (ha, ha)!

Brenner was a little worn out

We spent sometime with Aaron's cute little Grandma Schnabel. She is one of the sweetest ladies I have ever met. She kept telling Aaron how proud she was of him and his accomplishments. It made me beam! I'm really bummed I didn't get a picture of my boys with her this time, so I guess that means we'll have to take another trip down there soon so I can get that picture (ha, ha).

Just before we left St. George, the boys (yes ALL 3) decided that we NEEDED to go on a "lizard hunt". So we headed to the "DIXIE" red rock and hunted for lizards for about two hours. I was "trying" to help look for lizards, but I couldn't see, I was laughing so hard at the boys running all over for these lizards. Luckily enough the lizards were "so quick" that we didn't get to bring that type of souvenier home (YESSSSS!). Maybe next time!

On our way home we stopped at Cove Fort, and took a little tour. We had an awesome missionary Elder Callahan

We had a ball and now were just trying to enjoy the last few weeks we have until school starts, and I'm really not excited about school starting. I'm not ready to have my little 6 year old gone all day, I'm going to be sooooo lost!

Look out...here we come!

2009-08-04T15:34:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to be leaving town, we have had a little countdown...and the day has finally come! This is what we have been waiting for:

this...

and chillaxing

Hope you have a good week, we sure will!

P.S. "Thanks Aunt Ginger for taking care of the dogs, we know they are going to have fun with you!"

--Love Tan & Bren

Finally!

2009-07-15T15:42:00.000-07:00

I finally got the picture of us with the Jonas Brothers! I was really starting to wonder if I was ever going to see it, and after a little bit of "squeaking", I got it! I know I should have just stayed out of the picture, but what do you do? I wish there was a way to photoshop this picture, who knows I may look a little smaller after a little photoshop work (ha, ha). Brenner was pretty excited to see that we "FINALLY" got the picture.

Note to self: Stay out of pictures until I look like Tour Guide Barbie!

8 years ago today...

2009-07-12T13:22:00.001-07:00

I married my best friend!

Who says blind dates never work?

Even after 8 years and 2 boys later, I still get so excited

when I see my man after a long days of work.

Aaron...Thanks for making these last 8 years the best. I know things haven't been the greatest, but we still have time (ha, ha). Thanks for always making me laugh, for always being there, giving me the chance to stay home with our awesome boys, supporting life changing decisions, taking on challenges with me, being the best dad to these awesome boys, and for choosing ME to spend the rest of your life with (and beyond)!

I love you more than chocolate!

Frustration...

2009-07-08T17:38:00.000-07:00

Have you ever felt like this?

I have felt like this for the past week, and it's driving me absolutely NUTS. Luckily I haven't been found unconscious (well, that I know of -ha, ha). I am so sick of diabetes! I am sick of feeling like a total failure to my boys.

Hopefully SOON this sign will disappear!

Oh Jonas & the Stadium of Fire!

2009-07-06T09:39:00.000-07:00

Brenner and I had the opportunity to meet the Jonas Brothers at the Stadium of Fire, and let me tell you I now love them a little more. I know that sounds kinda weird (awkward--ha, ha), being married with two boys, but you know what I mean!

They were so awesome with Brenner, and he was in heaven! As we waited we talked to their dad, Kevin Sr. about diabetes, he told us how hard it was to watch his son take on this challenge, and he couldn't imagine what it would be like having a two year old start this battle. It was awesome to talk to him. It's nice to have a parental support like we do with the JDRF.

As we waited for our turn behind the curtain for our turn, we were given instructions... "give that tall gentleman your purse, no personal cameras, we have our own photographer." I was really bummed that I couldn't use my camera, but I understand why. In no time at all, they were greeting Brenner like they were old friends. Brenner's eyes lit up, and he just smiled like he was in heaven. Nick talked to Brenner for a minute about this diabetes and looked at me and said "he's so young, it makes me sad." As we were getting ready for the picture, Nick said "I'm going to crouch down here by my buddy," Brenner looked up at me with a HUGE smile. I can't wait to get that picture, although I probably should've stayed out of the picture...it was a HOT day (ha, ha).

After the picture, Nick took Brenner by the arms and looked him in the eyes and said "Buddy, we ARE going to find a cure, for me and you and everyone else. You take care, and I'll be out soon!" Right there I wish I would've had my camera for that little candid moment. It was great to see Nick be so personal with Brenner. At least that memory will be burned into my mind.

These boys don't even know how much that meant for Brenner to have that chance to meet them. The JDRF gave us this opportunity and I know that it really meant a lot to Brenner. As we were walking out of the room, Brenner turned to me and said "Mom, that was the best, I love the Jonas Brothers! We're going to get rid of diabetes" I just smiled.

We arrived to our seats to find Aaron and Tanner making paper airplanes. It was fun to see the excitement on Tanner's face as the planes would land a little bit farther than the last one. As we waited for the show to begin, we were greeted by a dark cloud, but it never rained. It was nice to finally have the heat off (ha, ha). I just realized that I didn't get any pictures of SheDaisy..oops!

Here are some pictures of the show:

This giant flag was made 13 years ago for a one time show at the "Stadium of Fire" and after that show it was used everywhere. This flag was retired that night...what an awesome experience!

The dancers...

The Jonas Brothers!

They sounded awesome, unlike Miley Cyrus last year (ha, ha).

They sounded like they do on TV, awesome!

Awesome fireworks!

The cauldron, the giant flag was retired with the help of this.

I will say, the Stadium of Fire was awesome. The fireworks were great and I honestly will be thinking of going again next year, even if the Jonas Brothers wont be the entertainment.

I will be posting more pictures soon, but I thought I should get something posted of the excitement

and the Mother of the Year Award goes to...

2009-06-24T13:26:00.001-07:00

Crystal Schnabel! Yes, I am the winner of the "Mother of the Year Award" (again)! Let me tell you how I won this award this time:

The story goes like this....

On Monday night at our fundraising party, Brenner thought that it would be great fun to play in the swollen river. After much deliberation, and my dad promising me that he would watch the boys, I agreed. During the drawings, Brenner's blood sugar began to drop. It didn't help that he was freezing from the river, so that was making his blood sugar drop even faster. Well, being the GREAT mom that I am, I had taken out our little diabetes cooler so that we would have room for the food--what was I thinking?!? So I quickly ran over and got Brenner some delish Cold Stone ice cream. He didn't want it, he didn't want anything. After much bribery, he finally took a sucker and chomped on it. His blood sugar was finally around 120 (that's our target!). We packed up the party and headed home.

As soon as we walked in the door Brenner wanted to get in the bath. I agreed, he REALLY needed a bath. So I unhooked his pump from his little tummy and let the smelly monster take a bath. He enjoyed the warm, steamy bath. He was worn out and ready for bed....(I know you are all wondering what my point of this story was...)

Before he got into bed, we checked his blood sugar, it was 160. Perfect again! (We're on a roll-ha, ha. Brenner's bedtime range is 160-200 -he drops really low during the night). Brenner was off to sleepy land, and so were we (ha, ha). Well about 2 am he woke up and needed to go "potty". I hurried him into the bathroom and then back to bed. 20 minutes later, he was up asking for a drink, so we walked down the hall got a drink and back to bed. We did this routine twice, and then I decided to check Brenner's blood sugar...450! "What the heck?!?" So I woke Brenner back up to see if he had woke up earlier and had eaten anything... he replied with a soft "No mom, I've been asleep." Well then I decided to check his CGM and see why it hadn't alarmed, to let us know that his blood sugar was starting to rise. Hmmmm....maybe it's because I didn't "plug" him back in to his pump. Ugh!

So much for trying to get his A1C down (ha, ha), I'm just aiming for the "Mother of the Year Award" instead, and I think I got it!

Oh, what a night!

2009-06-23T09:23:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to say THANK YOU to all those who came out last night, and supported Brenner's Brigade's fundraising dinner. I honestly couldn't believe my eyes with all the people that came out to support Brenner and our cause. We had an awesome face painter that painted all night long, and we had some awesome food (after it finally arrived-ha, ha). HUGE shout out to TEXAS ROADHOUSE and DRAPER'S COLD STONE CREAMERY, please visit these restaurants and thank them for supporting the

Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Congratulations to Tracen Warnick for winning the Nintendo Wii for $170. What a STEAL!

Thanks to Best Buy for donating the Nintendo Wii and iPod.

Thanks to all our donors...Texas Roadhouse (dinner), Cold Stone Creamery (dessert), Armstrong Mansion (nights stay incl. breakfast), Inn on the Hill (nights stay incl. breakfast), Backyard Adventures (birthday party), Salt Lake Bees (Bees tickets), Utah Jazz (Basketball, blankets, figurines, etc), Edible Arrangements (fruit arrangement), Radisson (nights stay incl. breakfast), The Mayan (dinner for 2), Ruby River ($50 gift certificate), Rodizio Grill (dinner for 2), Hale Center Theatre (8 tickets), Desert Star Playhouse (show for 2), Checker Auto Parts (Tool kit), Yokums ATV (4 Wheeler & X-board) Western River Expeditions (river trip for 2), Embassy Suites (nights stay incl. breakfast), Elase (Laser skin resurfacing treatment), Mary Ann Williams (4 Michael McLean tickets), Joe Chappell (Maple & Walnut Checker Board-hand made).

Thanks for making this dinner such a HUGE success! We raised over $2,000.00 last night.

Bringing our fundraising to $3300.00!

Brenner woke up this morning, and said to me "Mom, did you see all those people at MY diabetes party last night? They are going to help me get rid of my diabetes!" I couldn't help but smile.

Thanks again for supporting Brenner,

and helping us to find the cure!