tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80860086937125298492024-03-05T03:07:19.448-08:00The CraigsCorinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.comBlogger124125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-60139952902378688722013-11-20T21:09:00.001-08:002013-11-20T21:36:30.515-08:00Life with Leukemia: Or is it?<br />
<span style="background-color: #ffc000;"></span><span style="font-family: Arial Narrow;">Monday was our weekly (more like bi-weekly) visit to Huntsman. It was an early appointment which we soon discovered was a big mistake<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> have you seen me in the morning? It’s not pretty</span>. Neither of us enjoyed getting up that early. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial Narrow;">It was pretty routine. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial Narrow;">Labs drawn, by a nurse who isn’t brand new. Poor Tyler kept getting the newer girls who aren’t quite as smooth with that needle. It’s no biggie, but a painless prick is worth something to him. One of our very favorite nurses <span style="font-size: xx-small;">every time my hair is in a bun I think of her</span> came out to see me in the waiting room. She switched jobs and is now working in our clinic! We couldn’t be happier. That made my visit!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial Narrow;">They took us back for the actual doctors appointment so fast. We usually wait much longer. The waiting room was bumming me out so I was happy about that. We were seen quickly, so quickly in fact that the RN (she’s not an RN, maybe just a nurse… or a PA… or.. I don’t know) and Dr. D came in at the same time. Now that NEVER happens. But of course I’m sure they were just both so anxious to see us, who wouldn’t be? Dr. D left and came back a little later.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial Narrow;">I appreciate the humor of highly educated nurse(?) R. She is quick on her feet with retorts to our ridiculous statements.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial Narrow;">The results from Tyler’s bone marrow biopsy were back. In easy to understand words NO TRACES OF CML WERE FOUND! They refer to this as a complete molecular response. For those of you wondering, he still has CML, but the medicine is doing such an amazing job it can not be detected in the marrow. His body is amazing. We are soooo grateful for the huge strides it is making in healing itself. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial Narrow;">We were out of the office by 10:15, got his refill <span style="font-size: xx-small;">which came to a grand total of 0 dollars by some strange miracle</span> by 10:30 and were headed home. Well, not quite, I always insist that we visit the gift shop.<span style="color: #ffc000;"> They were setting out some colored bracelets<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> you know the ones</span> so we picked up a couple of orange ones (that is the color for Leukemia).</span><span style="color: black;"> I may have wished, just for a second, some Carcinoid Cancer <span style="font-size: xx-small;">no idea what that is</span> on my husband so I would have a reason for a zebra striped bracelet. Did you know that the color for Brain Cancer support is grey? Kinda sad…</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial Narrow;">The only side affect Tyler has from this new medication is a small rash, that really is only there in appearance. It does not itch or burn or anything. He’s a lucky dude.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial Narrow;">We won't have to go back up to Huntsman for 6 weeks. I’m almost not sure how to handle that! Is it weird to think that I may miss the hospital?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial Narrow;">In other news, I have put up my Christmas decorations. Each of you who just rolled your eyes at me are welcome to judge, but I don't care, I love it (name that song). The past two years I haven’t really had the energy or desire to get them all the way up, so as soon as the decorating bug hit, I took advantage of it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial Narrow;">Sawyer started nursery <span style="font-size: xx-small;">3 weeks ago</span>. Maybe I’ve mentioned that… I can’t ever remember. But he loves it, especially the bubbles at the end. I’m so grateful for wonderful nursery leaders who care for him and make it a blast. I’ve never had my kid so joyful at the end of church. He will wave and blow kisses to just about everyone as we leave the building. <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HOtDiNlX-RM/Uo2YPNgueII/AAAAAAAAA_U/rfH11ji3_Qk/s1600-h/11-4-13%252520110%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="11-4-13 110" border="0" height="164" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3YVxafOzYTE/Uo2YPlvaMAI/AAAAAAAAA_Y/tf5HqD1geLE/11-4-13%252520110_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="11-4-13 110" width="244" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial Narrow;">The tantrums have thankfully slowed down <span style="font-size: xx-small;">Sawyers and my own</span>, although we did have a melt down over not being able to snuggle a cup of milk<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> that one was Sawyers</span>. He’s like a little sponge these days, copying and repeating everything we do and say. It’s a super fun and exhausting age. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial Narrow;">Being a mom is great. We have a lot of fun. Each day is new and different, some days are easy and exciting and some days<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> like today</span> I sit on a diaper full of pee that has been left opened on my kiddos bedroom floor <span style="font-size: xx-small;">probably my own fault</span>. Some days I am overwhelmed by the amount of hugs and kisses this little angel gives me, and some days I have to sit him in time out for biting Cooper or Lexi <span style="font-size: xx-small;">and leaving a bruise but for some crazy reason Lexi thinks it’s only means he loves her more</span>. </span><br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-8XFNPpdEzu0/Uo2YQ5kr1LI/AAAAAAAAA_k/6pPyHZ9MKmY/s1600-h/11-4-13%252520243%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="11-4-13 243" border="0" height="164" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wBLMWldD-7A/Uo2YSKHUvlI/AAAAAAAAA_s/goICvdqvsek/11-4-13%252520243_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="11-4-13 243" width="244" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial Narrow;">I am blessed with wonderful friends who will let me be at their houses or come sit at mine. I am happy.</span><span style="background-color: #ffc000;"></span>Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-43319331353110449862013-10-23T11:41:00.001-07:002013-10-25T07:37:52.572-07:00Life with Leukemia: A Spoon Full of Sugar<span style="font-family: Microsoft JhengHei;">Remember how last update I said nothing new had happened. Sometimes I wonder how much of what I say causes the next event… A day or two after that post we got a call from the clinic. They told Tyler to reduce his dose of the meds. Not a big deal really. A few days later our nurse called<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> at 7AM mind you</span> to tell Tyler that the study was ending and he was to stop taking the pills. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Microsoft JhengHei;">We went into the office on Monday to decide on a new choice for meds. I expected we would be taken back to see the doctor, but a tech called Ty back for labs. We didn't think he needed labs so we chatted with the tech. She told us that the study was actually back on and that the vials they were pulling were for the study. While they pull labs I wait in the waiting room (the room they do the blood work in is very tiny I tried standing in it once, but it was obvious I didn't fit) . I was waiting for a while… and I started to wonder what was happening… I look into the clinic and see them wheeling someone out of the small room. My mind races at this point… could that be my husband? is he hurt? why is he in a wheel chair? has he always been that white and pasty? It took me a couple of seconds, but after recognizing his clothes I knew it was him. The nurse came out to get me. Tyler had passed out <span style="font-size: xx-small;">not all the way, but pretty close </span>as they drew his blood. They were attempting to pull 30 tubes of blood, and Tyler's stomach was empty, bad combo.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Microsoft JhengHei;">People who pass out during blood work get an extra special room with an ER bed and a TV. They also get tons of crackers and juice. Eventually, they did draw the rest of the blood. After the rush of nurses Tyler finally got to tell me that the study was NOT back on and the blood was being taken as final blood work to end the study. Along with blood work they would need a bone marrow biopsy DUN DUN DUN. We met with a new fellow (fellow being the stage of doctor he was not just that he was a man) who spent time with us explaining our options for a new medication. After going back and forth we had him write the information down so we could decide. Each drug has 2 names, it gets confusing!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Microsoft JhengHei;">After meeting with Dr. D Tyler had the bone marrow biopsy (done by the fellow). He tells me it was actually not as bad as the last time. He'd have to get you more info on that, but even just watching it wasn't as bad. I got closer this time and the doctor showed me how it was done. I'm thinking of doing his next one<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> I'm sure he'd love that</span>! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Microsoft JhengHei;">We decided on a new medicine and went to pick it up from the pharmacy. I was glad they let us get it right at Huntsman. I can only imagine what the guy at WalMart would think if I came in looking for my meds.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Microsoft JhengHei;">Basically starting this new drug is like starting back at square one, but with better blood test results. Taking that first pill was as nerve racking as it was 3 months ago. I figured if we made the atmosphere awesome, the pill would work awesome. I didn't give him a spoon full of sugar, but I did get him a bagel sandwich and we blasted the radio<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> probably the coolest way to take a pill.</span> So far he hasn't had any crazy reactions, and hopefully he wont. We feel really comfortable with the switch. We appreciate that our doctor was obviously concerned for Tyler's wellbeing. He was probably more upset about the switch then we were. And nothing makes you feel better then when a doctor cares for you the way this doctor cares for Tyler. An even more assuring thing is that if this medicine doesn't work we always have a back up plan. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Microsoft JhengHei;">I took exactly one picture of this last hospital trip. This was after the biopsy, it's proof it wasn't all that bad! I wish I could hire a photographer to follow us around. I always regret not taking more pictures after the fact!! I'd have loved to show you how he looked right after passing out. You might have also loved the zombies we saw as we drove home. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Microsoft JhengHei;">Can you guess what he is doing on his phone??? His work recently recorded one of his labs and put it on youtube, so we were listening to it. Nothing more exciting then listening to Tyler teach.</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8p1LTVTrNlD6I3UI_cid14Tm5sVs-eDGP85nC6Enhti-HpQMqz2zjl34ubpKJGgd8z4b_5mS4ekGg_sgBzRhNnOd43l7_X0ITk_98iACuXbAIm0rlaXPNvW0X56Q4lawx5IUITpXX1A/s1600-h/IMG_20131021_114151%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><span style="font-family: Microsoft JhengHei;"><img alt="IMG_20131021_114151" border="0" height="244" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Iv0xR8xfVQg/UmgYXq8QXgI/AAAAAAAAA-8/LFzomhUUgPc/IMG_20131021_114151_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_20131021_114151" width="244" /></span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Microsoft JhengHei;">What else is happening you ask? Tyler is planning the ward Halloween party. I am stressing about Tyler planning the ward Halloween party. We are speaking in church on Sunday. I am stressing about us speaking in church on Sunday. Sawyer is growing up! I'm working on setting rules and boundaries for him because his brain is way too fast and smart for me. I've started watching our friends little baby Finley once a week. She is the cutest thing and Sawyer loves having her here. We went on an adventure to Park City with the Atkinson's. I'll blog about that later because people NEED to know what happened!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Microsoft JhengHei;"></span><br />Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-53239436524479899812013-10-09T14:31:00.001-07:002013-10-09T14:31:48.884-07:00I Guess You Had to be There<p>Leukemia may be the reason Tyler can no longer share a water bottle with anyone <font size="1">that’s really gross anyways</font>, the reason he should avoid too many handshakes and kisses <font size="1">also he’s married so he shouldn’t be kissing anyone but me</font> during the flu season, the reason the first Monday of every month has been lost to hospital visits but there are some things Leukemia didn’t take…</p> <p>For example his sense of humor. It also did not alter his priorities one bit. He sticks to the important things. Why just yesterday I called Tyler (he was downstairs in his office. I was requesting to be relieved from mothering so I could take a nap <font size="1">shocker… I know…</font> I knew Tyler had a few hours and would desperately want to help <font size="1">what dad</font> <font size="1">wouldn’t</font>. Instead of meeting my request he responded with, </p> <p>“Well, how about instead I come up and eat lunch and then WE can play legos together while Sawyer naps”</p> <p>Ummm I think he missed the point of my call. I even asked again if I could just nap and he insisted we needed to spend time together.</p> <p>This morning I was picking up the house and getting ready to go out shopping. I asked Tyler if he would go with us. He declined making me think he had other things to do. He did…</p> <p>“I’ve just got to finish this Lego set, oh, and then I’ll do the dishes in the sink”<font size="1"> I love that he does the dishes, but I laugh at the order of importance </font></p> <p> </p> <p>Making a shopping list for me is always stressful! I know I’m going to forget things and I worry about staying in budget. After I figured I had the whole list ready I said to Tyler;</p> <p>“There’s just one thing worrying me about going shopping today” <font size="1">I’m thinking about staying in budget when I need to buy a lot of big items</font></p> <p>Tylers quick response </p> <p>“I know I know it must be Tuesday… double coupon day” <font size="1">Do I really complain about that every time I shop on a Tuesday? I wish you could have heard it. It’s obviously not Tuesday, he’s a little lost there, but really I do ALWAYS say that on a Tuesday and I usually just cancel all grocery shopping. I’m glad to know he has been listening.</font></p> <p><font size="2">As I read this over, these things don’t seem as funny as they did when they happened, but I’ll let you work at it and create the hilarious scene in your heads. </font></p> <p><font size="2">Here’s something funny in case this post didn’t make you laugh…</font></p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSuGxYWHunaonq0Ai4dJ4R5okjCgVor7aXyeGMC0OosbZ8q3DrpTIst0CQ2bORBtntuNgi6xFw-FiR7-xr5LXySFNzdbDUQ30NhRVxQL-H0u0AJsdwra1978zkv7xSLtR5HXyRNRr1iA/s1600-h/1-30-13%252520014%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="1-30-13 014" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="1-30-13 014" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NjOtE2qP7-Q/UlXLQqa8ujI/AAAAAAAAA-o/ydff2J_N-YM/1-30-13%252520014_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244"></a> <p>He put that hat on backwards all by his little thug self. It must be the California in him.</p> Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-27911099428320540262013-10-08T20:49:00.001-07:002013-10-08T20:49:24.382-07:00Like with Leukemia: No News is Good News<p>We haven’t had much to share as of late, but as the saying goes….</p> <p>Monday was our monthly appointment and since things have been going so slow we figured, why not make it a marathon appointment?<font size="1">The only marathon I will ever run</font> Because who doesn’t want to spend their whole day in waiting rooms? I know I do! </p> <p>On Friday evening Tyler got the reminder phone call about his appointments, unfortunately we missed that call. In the message the mentioned a bone marrow biopsy..<font size="3"> WHAT?!!</font> <font size="1"><------that’s what Tyler said</font>. We called back, but they were closed so we had to wait until we got in on Monday. We were a bit nervous thinking about it all weekend, but I kept assuring Tyler it would really be ok (then praying that I knew what I was talking about). I vaguely remember being told that we were making a tentative appointment for one, just in case one last test came in off. makes sense right? </p> <p>Monday morning, we get there bright and early for blood work. One of our nurses from the BMT unit was filling in and taking blood. It was so great to see her. She was definitely one of our favorites! We immediately saw the girl who had called us and asked about the bone marrow biopsy. She wasn’t sure, but was determined to find out if Tyler really did need one. Long story short, I was right, he didn’t! We moved forward with appointments. </p> <p>We had breakfast after the blood draw</p> <p>We hung out in the 4th floor waiting room <font size="1">something about that extra clean smell brings peace to my soul</font></p> <p>We met with Tylers’ doctor (always pleasant)</p> <p>It took awhile….</p> <p>His blood counts look fabulously normal</p> <p>He had an EKG,<font size="1"> next time I’m making him put his own stickers on… I think we have it figured out</font></p> <p>Tried to pick up the meds</p> <p>Went and had an Echocardiogram,<font size="1"> did you know those take 45 minutes? I sure did fall asleep in a chair in that dark room</font>.</p> <p>Picked up meds</p> <p>Listened to an A Capella group</p> <p>Grabbed a not so fabulous pizza</p> <p>Went home! <font size="1">And because it’s not a trip to Salt Lake without something crazy happening… On the road back to the freeway, at a stoplight, there was a man laying in the street… LAYING IN THE STREET! He must have fallen. There were people all around him, one lady even brought him a jacket to use as a pillow. really lady? A pillow? How about lifting this guy up and off the street.</font></p> <p>We saw a few other people we recognized. It warms my heart to run into them. Everything looks great for Tyler. The medicine is working as it should. His body is responding. We can’t ask for much more. </p> <p>I am blessed to have a great friend (whom I share a b-day with) who has a sister in law with CML. A few weeks ago we had them over to our house. It’s inspiring to meet other people whose lives are on similar paths <font size="1">except they are ten times the people we will ever be</font>. Her and her husband were beyond awesome and I hope we get to spend more time with them in the future. Her husband was VERY well versed in all things CML. It’s kinda nice to talk with someone who knows so much. He knew a lot of statistics and information we hadn’t heard. We are glad for our friends who brought us together.</p> <p>Other then that… life is good as usual. We both had birthdays. We are both getting older<font size="1"> Tyler more so then me</font>. Sawyer is growing at an unprecedented rate. He does hilarious things daily and is obviously the worlds smartest baby.</p> <p>We wont be back to Huntsman till next month, so hopefully nothing eventful with Tyler’s health happens in the meantime. or ever again</p> Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-72612988625209400322013-09-25T20:54:00.001-07:002013-09-25T20:54:07.632-07:0026 things that I am usually embarrassed by, but today thought I would share<p>In honor of my 26th birthday…</p> <p>1. I once was a coordinated teenager who could play sports, I am no longer that person </p> <p>2. I have been in so many car accidents it has made me a paranoid driver</p> <p>3. Most of you probably knew number 2, but did you know that I’m SO paranoid I sometimes memorize license plates of cars that I’m sure will hit me and then drive off without stopping? I figure if I have their license plate number memorized, the police can find them and match the damages on our cars… for example.. the other day I pulled into an empty space at Wal-Mart. The man in the space in front of mine was packing up his car. I was sure that since he didn’t see me pull in, once he got in his car to drive away, he would pull forward through the space and hit me. I memorized his license plate. He did not hit me (as most of you probably guessed). I also did not need to memorize his license plate because it was a neighbor of mine, I’m sure I could have found him easily.</p> <p>4. I’m paranoid, but only about certain things (#2 and 3 for example)</p> <p>5. I am paranoid my house will be broken into and I wont be able to call the police because the burglar will hear me and hunt me down so I have set up texting codes with a neighbor. She can call the police for me.</p> <p>6. I wish my hair was super long again</p> <p>7. I love Disney channel movies and shows. Miley and I used to have a good relationship (back when she was normal)</p> <p>8. I would go to Disneyland over any amusement park anywhere</p> <p>9. This year was my first time getting a flu shot (that I’m aware of, I probably got them as a kid). Oh and if you love Tyler and want to spend lots of fun, close proximity, time with him this winter you’ll get one too!</p> <p>10. The other day I was sure I smelled fish in my friends ice.</p> <p>11. I’m the worst person to ask for a book, movie, or TV show recommendations (mostly because I like the Disney channel)</p> <p>12. The longest I’ve ever had a job was 3 years</p> <p>13. I am a believer in retail therapy, and I think my insurance should cover it</p> <p>14. I’m NOT paranoid when it comes to my child. </p> <p>15. This last year was the first year I actually attempted to make food that had more then 3 ingredients (and most of them were successful)</p> <p>16. When I was young I own a pair of leggings that were black with ghosts and I’m pretty sure some with pumpkins (nowadays they’d be in style)</p> <p>17. My kids bowed legged walk makes me laugh</p> <p>18. I’ve picked up a hitch hiker (but it was completely against my will and I’m pretty sure I wasn’t driving).</p> <p>19. I love making to-do lists and (despite what some people say) they work wonders for me</p> <p>20. When I find a show I like I overdose on it and will watch whole seasons in a matter of days</p> <p>21. I didn’t love reading until after I was married</p> <p>22. The furthest I’ve ever run is 7 miles</p> <p>23. I love meeting new people (but only if I am with someone else, because if I am alone I apparently have some sort of new people anxiety)</p> <p>24. I have the WORST memory there ever was (it’s really embarrassing at times)</p> <p>25. I actually enjoy hospital stays. When I had Sawyer I loved it. I figured if I was ever in a hospital for a bad reason I’d learn to hate them, but I rather enjoyed Tyler’s stay (granted it was a super nice place)</p> <p>26. I could eat Lo-Mein (which I always thought was chow mein) all day and night</p> Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-7158484051414914392013-09-08T14:07:00.001-07:002013-09-08T14:07:19.637-07:00California In August<p> </p> <p>Last month Sawyer and I took a quick trip to visit my family in CA. I already told you how awesome the flights were (and really they weren’t so bad). But now to tell you a little about the trip… using pictures.</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZt1MwPwor0mwZ8mjc_G0mlMQyDD1Oa0z25tjVSLGyFRrHmtyngnddIZhITsKVu25RE4U4M5P0qruaXrF62XA2XSKxhSAFqyTGOOZoUm1H9X5NX0mvQZqvaY8UGs6ZPoa-M6wen4mmCw/s1600-h/sept%2525207%252520256%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="sept 7 256" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 22px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="sept 7 256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhljYIKLJ3p3XyIIlgVxIOrpLPT9rWfTg8iC9Fk1fLeTTZcralgHdeKKWNJETCs5evJil3ajWruUoygXw5_eXYIotcEJWVZEELLAXr22RclvgMfLWaylDWvqOg0fVkWvq-QADsY2Jm6WA/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p align="center">Sawyer was still on Utah time (which I expected) so he would wake up every morning at 5:30. He wasn’t thrilled with the idea of being cooped up in a room, so this DVD player saved the day (Thanks Williams family!)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-FacTrFNQXbE/UizmqPQhAxI/AAAAAAAAA50/9W7Vo_DFIZk/s1600-h/sept%2525207%252520260%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="sept 7 260" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 12px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="sept 7 260" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xpwwXEiIgyY/UizmqriJbQI/AAAAAAAAA58/N7csGRi6Tl4/sept%2525207%252520260_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p align="center">Sawyer called home every chance he got.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1Si_Vd9DEOw/UizmrdYe4VI/AAAAAAAAA6E/eSBP2DKMVUU/s1600-h/sept%2525207%252520272%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="sept 7 272" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="sept 7 272" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fvpljQFmSZ4/UizmsDqaPXI/AAAAAAAAA6M/4PLdm8f4-xI/sept%2525207%252520272_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-V5D2bnif5WJQR-OCnZNGvo0BmOtlPH2PER22sbMEbCbAPUrQ8btvVekqTQof-_CZgqRA91XM4FHQgYk2amXcwYgcKNUqgSPgaqT7_mK9ZtlJG3E3o886ihC7yFnIvpow9hhl3ntdJQ/s1600-h/sept%2525207%252520273%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="sept 7 273" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 21px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="sept 7 273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJCL6R9Ij3jxiHRJNemuXllSyBaSoxup8P90XxbohF_gKl_UoeMhHwcKfuIbjVckYn57mxv1nRVirgGMOGoU5XfSGQxAWOhWT89rhmJy0VkOkgozCbVl7BzqWOGbpJn07OlqZCH0KHLw/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p align="center">We had to do some sharing… Sawyer LOVES sharing. Can’t you tell?</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VVYrVOYbjcA/UizmuIZzaqI/AAAAAAAAA6k/3CkXHH61w4k/s1600-h/sept%2525207%252520259%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="sept 7 259" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 12px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="sept 7 259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQR8760E8jcWL3vN1UsPrd13ncjh9lN4_cdAsniQuLFQYhyphenhyphen0UCdWNldsQ1ofnmw6rZHPuCw2M4SXj8JrunRfil-nvxg4p2FyJ_P0-3SR5hOm0ukXn7g2rs5WzuG24MZbavRNBzaF5sfg/?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244"></a></p> <p align="center">Future pianist… He INSISTED on sitting on the stool to play.</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjviVHyfqdQgvGwy9B7-qWoSF1Qo5AXSg5E-5bVcE_pH_rnXfGSNPc-4a9M7ajY7aT0vCoGtCZHF7Fr0orl-ywlboGKP2zWC4Zh_7-jynuF1l9zcKycrZ7twSYtYY0QnrRVP0UWtZbOBQ/s1600-h/sept%2525207%252520276%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="sept 7 276" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="sept 7 276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv0AkgOkoDFATindKjv3AQGgIkcc3hhJdAPc2G2shMpSr68ug0-qR9VV04TrkDLpGC97r65oCvf4qj5GxIRC9dkHPqj02YdpntIbuao8ce1OwiHhWdXF4teijzQYdwEOz_-x_N4ghuoQ/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p align="center">He really can be an excellent share..r…</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK2wm36Eyq4bmplO45YXcEjUS8wuk99n4Wi2x2lxdtrP7K0vVOV7SNapAPR392kBxgxtO8LEt-JNzBqEkdxe0VKs7J63B4i8AJFxIEpRQsQF0bAvCcSwDQonFhiIIBrBqbs7sZswt9og/s1600-h/sept%2525207%252520281%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="sept 7 281" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 12px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="sept 7 281" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7FKPDcZLnJI/UizmxKnnu0I/AAAAAAAAA7M/DFsiEpK2ukQ/sept%2525207%252520281_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244"></a></p> <p align="center">We took naps, it was hot there (which is why this is the only outfit he ever wore)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jkcKoW1XNVM/Uizmyb1FbZI/AAAAAAAAA7U/mSlpI1o1__I/s1600-h/sept%2525207%252520283%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="sept 7 283" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 12px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="sept 7 283" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0bkZfFEXLMY/UizmzDt9vnI/AAAAAAAAA7c/itPJNxOimw4/sept%2525207%252520283_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p align="center">We hung out with our super cool cousins.</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix5SrJQkBx3h2jNlHtTQoqtvpeHrF-MnTYm-T2g7RSANhedZ1DSa6icu2LWDW3mpk3NpAyQWph1CEO0_NP80CoYk8sYwaOwKzHvQ1s37cLRugWTkdZJC0VQt27su3rOtQkT_K9kCKgLA/s1600-h/sept%2525207%252520295%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="sept 7 295" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 12px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="sept 7 295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjecPQVr_PJqYGh6lSWeuW6ulJhiPbPMn5ZxgAd4COpnEgpanqJiokEd30UM6sa77AGUimXHqrMqp7AaVo36Eu94dOKXqw43F6BlB62uKYNmuGqG5Z_y6W7UvRBzI7k3MIYDKb03ik1oA/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ygq_absP8EU/Uizm1KNA6qI/AAAAAAAAA70/x1FCLEIfCqY/s1600-h/sept%2525207%252520296%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="sept 7 296" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 12px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="sept 7 296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Bq6OxGvbwbOE-y7kAcgWu_d-zu48hZ6lVsHknfhYbqUMAU683VIdVg8bPr7OnNP_jMjl3FyJJu6RgjB5i-kGc0m0vFiEOnU6UvjRMkDlylg-OvNHF8GWAa8_3PnB-we41N1xUiIRPw/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-YL6OKCfNz9o/Uizm2KlH0OI/AAAAAAAAA8E/P1QX9V1bFtM/s1600-h/sept%2525207%252520297%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="sept 7 297" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 12px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="sept 7 297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4CPz-E4oHu2K6szqoCwAGjcbVDiYQ6ZxLELGLbIpO4GpLqG_K7-ou-U5MqGuyDqYhqN-HHBGxg3LckgdymjWtmwFvHflhG_zxkwgq_VTfKz4n3NanzMfwC8PL42yXAC9Vvqvq943pQ/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wgMtKtZCK_0/Uizm3opThiI/AAAAAAAAA8U/_wWf3PmDUFY/s1600-h/sept%2525207%252520298%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="sept 7 298" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 12px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="sept 7 298" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-U4LG7weZ3yc/Uizm4dsMAnI/AAAAAAAAA8c/_DV7DhjGf_0/sept%2525207%252520298_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-58-cvKGe3Kg/Uizm48lETGI/AAAAAAAAA8k/RDBA83eyAx8/s1600-h/sept%2525207%252520299%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="sept 7 299" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 12px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="sept 7 299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpaJlK2_VBNeyHYm3z1p8sHQpBG2SLrznNm4pRBTVR45gSiuZUM7tqeSJ9I3Hc9Nn0x3bwRROW6DNJlwhNkXx_ww5cjc6en2NHQZ9l5TLeVhsg3wnqEnWB1dbS8YTxB89887Rt5c-9Uw/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p align="center">Recently Cassie told me that she had still yet to see one of Sawyers tantrums. I realized most people probably haven’t seen one. It’s kinda funny to watch really. Here’s a little scene by scene on how it goes.</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg24sio4Yk6BBu_tqtb2QVQZy5wboKDx5WCw-p1iZE4obfslQ01CUIjnOKs6dFnCDNLgjlVLWstCRQmtw0iaBe5WqPJ4qlnTtXFKCont4vztj4a63e3gO22jUgwcpzOh_AIdbgCVPQElw/s1600-h/sept%2525207%252520304%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="sept 7 304" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 12px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="sept 7 304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcYQfE3YR3MhCwsLHI57rTg1UHkFa3-YXus-W8XQKH0YSE5ufTBVQXxtZwmIhFpqtJphyphenhyphenMNnntSb2f_4yb4_epLhB-JCtZI5LvZobj50qi_ceq36RYHl3hMEu1odo48NuOaHkQ1b5sow/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p align="center">This cat is the last of my parents animals. He is great with the kids.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BQvTDKLND0o/Uizm7eaeY7I/AAAAAAAAA9E/pRmWxa-3cQ8/s1600-h/sept%2525207%252520310%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="sept 7 310" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="sept 7 310" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ELZfTf8vcDU/Uizm70BuA3I/AAAAAAAAA9M/GvLNvwkJDZg/sept%2525207%252520310_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244"></a></p> <p align="center">Grace is the best! She took care of Sawyer for me most of the time.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-BB-saI2SOio/Uizm8rHeNWI/AAAAAAAAA9U/CUBCDdujeSM/s1600-h/sept%2525207%252520316%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="sept 7 316" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 12px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="sept 7 316" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nkEnLAjoUWI/Uizm9JvjFPI/AAAAAAAAA9c/4QrLiAM0g74/sept%2525207%252520316_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244"></a></p> <p align="center">Sawyer and Meme hung out</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGoGiVDBRMRQATR0E-e7vSPfnpVowG84hVrHkKvGI858jBMI7fd3IAlEm_LEXI6m3Le3zDx6Wh3E_XcfLpOjMnoLBCi-e1_A5JQg7_qy-npPKHgGeyqwbt1OkLSSoyNSA3VE-CkHiJRg/s1600-h/sept%2525207%252520326%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="sept 7 326" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 12px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="sept 7 326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2tjetKByxARn9grNTEmEmKJlOPSx8H1EodQHQP61ykKFCrrmIIbipqTigq7lfVikVR7jQzX74SumAWE4PjSM8wlmVU80zt2mLCwsW7jyVD5NT6e4P_lp6KAA9zYteE7j5Yh1N43hZ_Q/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p align="center">Here’s what I will look like in 30 years and in 60 years.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-II4yBtTjrgU/Uizm_SVOmrI/AAAAAAAAA90/JHIg15kR9wY/s1600-h/sept%2525207%252520328%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="sept 7 328" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 12px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="sept 7 328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifscusFD1IeIrm5aY5nrZyCRLJRhzAwN2ZxtLi2yCdnV-u2EZ6wFEKSeSkaa8xZWHsG0O0hfY9k-jTWOlD0sYkyCxQXV2ueCRHflFSUjpsaAUC_9Ho_9q09q0CSGLBHO_cGfiv57ZlnQ/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2tTUt8AazSw/UiznA9LPhbI/AAAAAAAAA-E/tKTMaNy0Bu8/s1600-h/sept%2525207%252520331%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="sept 7 331" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 12px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="sept 7 331" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NFxxFqyas7E/UiznBSJiXxI/AAAAAAAAA-I/hpIeA2agyZc/sept%2525207%252520331_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p align="center">Sawyer loves his grandpa.</p> <p>We had a really good time visiting and playing. I forget how hot the heat is there and really I would have been fine just laying on beach all day in heat like that. Poor Sawyer is no where near getting used to it though. We missed our dad and were happy to come home to him </p> Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-62504629418614179182013-09-07T22:49:00.001-07:002013-09-07T22:49:49.536-07:00It’s a girl!<p><font face="Ebrima">It’s been 15 months and I have just been waiting for this to happen…</font></p> <p><font face="Ebrima">Sawyer has finally picked a toy he loves and wants to carry around with him. It’s darling! It’s precious! It’s a little<font size="5"> girl</font> baby doll…. We call her baby. He sits with her, walks with her, <font size="1">face plants because he’s too busy holding her with both hands</font>. He gives her kisses and tries to put diapers on her. I tried to switch her out for a teddy bear, but that didn’t work. He just wanted baby. Seriously, the cutest thing ever. I don’t really even care that he loves a doll. I told Tyler I’d even bring the thing to church if it makes him happy <font size="1">and distracts him long enough to listen</font>. </font></p> <p><font face="Ebrima">Sawyer had a bath today and first thing he did was throw baby in, luckily there wasn’t water in the tub yet.</font></p> <p><font face="Ebrima">Check out this cute picture of them both after the bath, he obviously missed her.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK5kip35snDmWx6UaW5k2Q1ayRci0UEc1__f4lNARWSySGdGP_eJrICEXwhCNBDXjhresEi7NmOX2qIh4c1rrPhMgLpd3FhI3YMGptfUllwenizv6dlgPnxQe_xm6fuVZbIG3tOOSBTw/s1600-h/sawyer%252520and%252520baby%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font face="Ebrima"><img title="sawyer and baby" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="sawyer and baby" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQIAyPAQHhbxVbVh_JOYjB77YPxXTbWbR4AXAFajwfgi64lv52b7yMDnH4GSTXW9RXHKNNmPzEg4-qrKIaYnOmHbRM7ehHND-DN21J3IxMZgEmczKAYIc1_w41Bpmh38qmi0iCRONhA/?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Ebrima">Sorry to everyone who is just dying for us to have another one of the worlds cutest children, this isn’t an announcement for that. And to put all your minds at rest, you wont be seeing that announcement for awhile <img class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" style="border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-right-style: none" alt="Smile" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jHOx-bonoEM/UiwP-8SOwQI/AAAAAAAAA5U/P0l3tKJifFw/wlEmoticon-smile%25255B2%25255D.png?imgmax=800"> My husband did get Leukemia and all…</font></p> Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-56395009134728513302013-08-27T20:01:00.001-07:002013-08-27T20:02:03.110-07:00Life with Leukemia: Old people sense of humor<p>Monday we went to Huntsman to have some labs drawn then over to U of U for a visit with the ID doctors. It should have been quick, but for whatever reason still took 3 hours…ish. We have a routine when we get to the Huntsman clinic. I always sit in the same chair while Tyler goes to check in. On that day however someone had turned the hallway into a wind tunnel. Literally my hair was blowing. I made Tyler sit inside the clinic (there are only a few chairs inside, the rest are in the hallway). As we waited I did what I love to do best at these visits. I people watched, and I wasn’t disappointed with the crowd. I listened to a nurse telling her co-workers about how she can feel her baby kick at night, <font size="1">awwww</font>. I noticed a new girl behind the desk checking people in and was thoroughly impressed with how fast she was for being so new. It made me miss working, then I stopped missing working and went back to watching. I listened as a old man came in and by the look of his warm welcome he is obviously a regular. He got tons of hugs! As he waited his turn he turned to the new girl and said:</p> <p>Old man “I like your beads” she was wearing a pearl necklace with lots of strands</p> <p>New girl “thanks!”</p> <p>Pause…</p> <p>Old man “Did you get them in New Orleans?” </p> <p>Then he gave himself an I’m pretty funny chuckle and went back to reading his newspaper. HILARIOUS. People with cancer have a different lease on life. I’ve loved watching how they can be less reserved. Did I write about the lady wearing a cape last visit? No inhibitions. And why would they? When your told you have a disease that can end your life early you definitely learn to let go. </p> <p>Also while we waited a lady came up with a snack cart full of yummy treats (oreos, granola bars<font size="1"> real ones not even store brand</font>, sun chips) and some beverages.</p> <p>At the U hospital we got in pretty quickly. The tech here offered us more snacks, but really all the had was an assortment of crackers <font size="1">which didn’t stop</font> Tyler. Not the same. We met with Dr. W and H. They both agreed that he would stop taking the antibacterial medicine. They checked the results of Tyler’s blood work from that morning. His platelets were just a little lower then last time, but they think these antibacterials are probably causing some of that. They gave us a run down of what happens with low platelets, which we already knew, Tyler tried to make a funny joke about avoiding razors, that didn’t go over well <font size="1">a joke is never great if you have to explain it</font>. </p> <p>Tyler’s numbers:</p> <p>You already know the platelets were still low</p> <p>WBC: 6.2 or maybe 6.5… I don’t remember</p> <p>Potassium… great</p> <p>Everything else…. normal!</p> <p>So pretty much he’s normal. Well… I mean… you know. The ID doc was talking about how even though his WBC is normal there are still bad cells in there, but it’s not affecting him much.</p> <p>We didn’t run into any moaners, screamers, or scary people this trip. It was pleasant. </p> Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-14673748515767882362013-08-26T22:00:00.001-07:002013-08-27T10:23:10.186-07:00Plane Ride Do’s and Don’ts<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">This last week Sawyer and I made a quick trip out to California to visit my grandma. I was missing her and my family was missing Sawyer so it benefited us all. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Our only obstacle would be the actual getting there part. I could have driven, but, I have some sort of chronic sleep while driving disorder and would have fallen asleep by Payson, and I love Payson and all but we wouldn’t have made it there so we flew. Between the flight there and back I came up with a pretty comprehensive list of flying tips and tricks that will benefit you all.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga; font-size: x-large;">DO:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Remember to fill up all Sippy cups once inside the security gate so your child can promptly spill them</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Bring string cheese</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Dress your child in warm pants, planes are cold</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Bring a change of clothes so once everything has spilled on them you can put fresh clothes on and no one will know</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Deal with AMAZING gate peeps who will purposefully find you a row with an empty seat, even if it is by the toilet</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Be grateful for that empty seat, and the two on the other side of the aisle</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Thank each and every person who compliments you, you know they mean it otherwise they wouldn’t say it</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Smile and be kind to others around you then when your child loses all control they will like you better. The saying kill them with kindness really applies here</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">If you have to sit next to someone (like I did on my return flight) let it be a kind mother of 5 who is taking her last son to BYU. She will be amazing and will even help with the screaming kid. And eventually she will ask to be moved but only for your benefit so you have more space to wrangle in your crazy overtired baby.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Stand up when your child loses control! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Bounce them like crazy and eventually they will fall asleep</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Bring lots of toys, food, drinks, movies, books, beaded necklaces and a blanket</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Remove child’s shoes before attempting to take off pants to change diaper</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Sit next to a bathroom that actually doesn’t smell</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Let your child pull out each and every magazine, barf bag, and safety instructions pamphlet</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga; font-size: x-large;">DO NOT:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Drop your child’s diaper on the floor, you know… the messy ones</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Wipe the food you’ve spilled off the seat and then look at the wipe </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Look at the cleaning wipe, after your child has just licked the seat</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Show your child where the button to turn the light on. Even more so if they aren’t tall enough to reach it on their own, <span style="font-size: xx-small;">my arms were exhausted</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Feed your child yellow fruit snacks</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">React to your child’s fake cough, it will turn into fake choke and people think you’re being abusive.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Bring a scratched DVD, kids don’t have that kind of patience</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Think that just because you’re flying during nap time your child will sleep</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Hand a mad baby a squeeze food packet</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Try and hold down your angry toddle, it’s better to let them kick and scream</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Think you can actually fly with a 15 month old on your lap by yourself</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Try and take blog notes while flying solo with a 15 month old… he will rip them out of your hands</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">We obviously survived both flights. The first was ten times easier then the second. And once he fell asleep on the way back it was fine. <span style="font-size: xx-small;">The Benadryl probably helped a ton.</span> I wont ever fly alone with that sweet angel baby again. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Our trip was good. Sawyer did weasel his way into bed with me all 3 nights. That is something I do NOT ever do. My resolve to not let him in was only strengthened. If you think Sawyer is busy when he’s awake you should see him sleep. That kid moves soooo much! He was completely on my face at one point. BUT it is scary for him to wake up in the middle on the night in a new place. And the small cuddles I did get were nice. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">It was hot there as usual, but we took advantage of my moms little swimming pool and the fact that babies can run around in just a diaper.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Tyler survived the 4 days alone. He actually worked a ton and stayed pretty busy. He also managed to clean the entire house before we got home. What a dream!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Here’s some pictures from the trip!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin0_yPwNIdv0Dl8GJpSk21n9-5E69Dien2e8MwNngjaiGvjsGOaOai0RXO7mKnBlsvAe2fOaX1RZTMlQIKvA4xV-a9K3Y_Df_sa6VHZ5ctzUd0GPD_BEAmqErJl7vOf0oPaj0C96vYRQ/s1600-h/IMAG1466%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMAG1466" border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaN8ChVyNe5LGM0u10GQcR5Lhhm4fiCnqvZErvtq75AqWfIPUfUONTXnZ6C1AAVXUJa12zVdxGLLHEbdlRRaRgWDUyzuk-SUX_hEg6wZFEZ7qpCjfnnd_jwBysVDjfTqjbJ6dQIyTGXw/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMAG1466" width="139" /></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-SMkkck1DdfI/UhwyRScDlVI/AAAAAAAAA3s/OsXEtzDksM4/s1600-h/IMAG1475%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMAG1475" border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga6D55-6IK4VWI6k17alfuaXOtASnRcC20FsTWQKLqnnlE_1PiccQM3mmdPvB9VbJo5Lp2j6gS6fmY1kt8K6jTg2l7dNGPCx-ddxnQ7w5uMh5ZtluF8xLuK_LqB4rUg4VsUl6MGykmzg/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMAG1475" width="139" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mZWDxvpmWIE/UhwyTFetOMI/AAAAAAAAA38/XhwDRIAaqIY/s1600-h/IMAG1490%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMAG1490" border="0" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8z0NawUHcptTvxmoaI-9FJfbcwYZYmYWHhUj20td-HQYP1GQIEHBqPLxHZXGXyuofu8twa2tuUYI5BiOor3p47jktxgehUWUaolnN9sp1ntAcEubwdxsRf0b_zy9zKzYXmcleI_sBvA/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMAG1490" width="244" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-JV5o_7pbUTg/UhwyUdpM8lI/AAAAAAAAA4M/biJD8-5hW28/s1600-h/IMG_20130822_082920%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_20130822_082920" border="0" height="244" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Wo5sAMgCj3Y/UhwyU7lYGlI/AAAAAAAAA4U/YohaJmnVw54/IMG_20130822_082920_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_20130822_082920" width="244" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCM-yI5HBweTLHpEFOc82QMVEGF545sJ79ddSr2kVQlAxd77MB7_xSStlUp5c1jUM98nDBQjiC7KY6ZFqe9Hm0PmHnT0VxfmE-fiLm3RJfu-MSaILdstuW5DlM3UDzKcY9j0eq-lyqlQ/s1600-h/IMG_20130823_165851%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_20130823_165851" border="0" height="244" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jEvON9kJ2N8/UhwyYsJbsKI/AAAAAAAAA4k/u8UNXw7rs0k/IMG_20130823_165851_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_20130823_165851" width="244" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0d7IgcPh0tc/UhwyZmHbdaI/AAAAAAAAA4s/X3mwOQJNIRw/s1600-h/IMAG1472%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMAG1472" border="0" height="244" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7-tPBOTCc2E/UhwyZ_SwKtI/AAAAAAAAA40/1zvD6uW93FU/IMAG1472_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMAG1472" width="139" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">Let's chat about these in order from left to right…</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">1. Sawyer loved the DVD, until it skipped. And those headphones worked awesome</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">2. Sawyer driving his new sports car at the mall</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">3. The truck at Emilys house. Notice the nakedness.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">4. Living it up in his own seat.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">5. More nakedness. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Kalinga;">6. Dear people of CA, I know your style is different then here in Utah, and I can respect that, but PLEASE do not wear Disney themed leggings, tight dresses, or short skirts. There is a reason these are one sale.</span>Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-89247431108728249192013-08-20T20:01:00.001-07:002013-08-20T20:49:47.472-07:00Life with Leukemia: Angels All Around Us<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Kalinga;">We had family home evening on Monday night with a few neighbors. I was horribly unprepared, <span style="font-size: xx-small;">which was embarrassing because we invited some new neighbors to join and I know they couldn’t have been very impressed</span>. Instead of planning my lesson that night I was preparing for the next few years of motherhood as I watched my sweet angel baby throw many many tantrums. You would all be impressed at his perfection in tantrum throwing. I guess the saying practice makes perfect can really apply to anything. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Kalinga;">Since I was so unprepared I turned to the scriptures and looked for a marked one. I figure if I marked it, there has to be something I can learn from it <span style="font-size: xx-small;">which really what scripture can’t you learn from?</span> I ended up using Mosiah 2:41.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Kalinga;">And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed and </span><a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/mosiah/2.41?lang=eng#"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Kalinga;">happy</span></a><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Kalinga;"> state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are </span><a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/mosiah/2.41?lang=eng#"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Kalinga;">blessed</span></a><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Kalinga;"> in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out </span><a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/mosiah/2.41?lang=eng#"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Kalinga;">faithful</span></a><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Kalinga;"> to the end they are received into </span><a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/mosiah/2.41?lang=eng#"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Kalinga;">heaven</span></a><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Kalinga;">, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness. O remember, remember that these things are true; for the Lord God hath spoken it.</span></blockquote>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Kalinga;">This verse got us talking about blessings and of course I rambled on about our hospital stay, <span style="font-size: xx-small;">I’m like a return missionary just off the plane, it’s as if nothing else has EVER happened to me</span> Talking about the hospital made us think of Doctor J, <span style="font-size: xx-small;">which got me thinking of Channing Tatum… you only know why if you met him.</span> Dr. J was an angel sent to us. One we did not see coming, but who was there for us the moment we would need him. We are thankful for him. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Kalinga;">Speaking of rambling… lets see if I can actually get my thoughts together enough to write this blog post</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Kalinga;">Dr. J… Angels…Thankful.. Watch this video:</span><br />
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Elder Holland… you know you want to hear what he says.</div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Kalinga; font-size: xx-small;">side note: there was a link on the LDS.org website for this video so I could share it through IM… Do people still IM?</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Kalinga;">Gratitude. We recently found ourselves feeling a bit lacking in ways to show our gratitude for people like Dr. J and other angels around us. After some talking <span style="font-size: xx-small;">and Tyler listening</span> we decided the best way we can show it is through action. I love that at the end of this clip Elder Holland encourages us to be angels as we pray for ones of our own. If I’m praying for angels I know others are too and who am I to think the Lord wouldn’t use me to answer another's prayer? You don’t have to be LDS to understand what is he talking about, or to follow his counsel. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Kalinga;"> I know this post got spiritual fast, don't tell my bishop but I’m hoping a couple of these will count as a sacrament talk <span style="font-size: xx-small;">you can tell him that part</span> and I can avoid being asked <span style="font-size: xx-small;">leave that part out</span></span> <img alt="Smile" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-j_IKlFDpopg/UhQtjwAGuSI/AAAAAAAAA3I/E-PapC3AytI/wlEmoticon-smile%25255B2%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none;" /> <span style="color: #666666; font-family: Kalinga;">And if I do get asked, I’ll probably just read a few blogs posts.</span>Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-48161283676762021492013-08-14T19:29:00.001-07:002013-08-14T19:29:06.557-07:00Life with Leukemia: Count my many blessings<p><font face="Malgun Gothic">I wanted to write a very elegant post about all of the many blessings that we have experienced these last 2 months, but it was an overwhelming thought so instead, here is a very unorganized not elegant list. Also, just mentally add the word awesome to the front of most <font size="1">because in some spots it wont make sense</font> of these items, that way I don’t seem redundant using it over and over.</font></p> <ul> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Huntsman</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Nurses</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Doctors</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Modern medicine</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Hospital visitors</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Yummy treats</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Hospital pizza</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Family</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Friends</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">All the service we received</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Priesthood blessings</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">A clean home</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">A safe place for Sawyer</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Humor</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Insurance</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Art</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Games</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Music</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Babysitters</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Healthy days</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Healed stomachs</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Sleep</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Renewed energy</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Generous co-workers</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Meals</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">The Spirit</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Peace and comfort</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Dr. D</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Quick recovery</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">Social media</font></li> <li><font face="Malgun Gothic">More friends and neighbors</font></li></ul> <p><font face="Malgun Gothic">I could go on but my brain is a little on the fried side these days and I feel like that was all it could out put at this time. In the end we want everyone to know how great this experience has been. The blessings have completely out weighed the trials and to be honest we are having a hard time finding the… well.. the hard times. These days we feel so loved and happy we can only be grateful.</font></p> <p><font face="Malgun Gothic">HEALTH UPDATE: Tyler promised Dr. D that he would be his number one patient and it seems as if he’s holding up his end of the deal. At his appointment on Monday his numbers all looked great. His WBC is at 7… yes you read that right, 7. For those of you with better brains then mine you will remember that when we went into the hospital his WBC was 99. If you're wondering if this drug is working, the answer is YES. Their only concern was some low platelets, but it’s nothing too worrisome and we will just check it again in 2 weeks. The rest of his numbers… normal and perfect. <font size="1">like his wife</font>. </font></p> <p><font face="Malgun Gothic">SIDE NOTE: I really do think there is a red flag on my name at the pharmacy. Once again I go to get a prescription (this time for Sawyer) and once again I decline speaking to the pharmacist and ONCE AGAIN he comes to talk to me anyways… sir, I know how to give my child one teaspoon of this pink stuff twice a day. I promise to refrigerate it. Maybe I need to look less drug dealer-ish when I go to Wal-Mart</font></p> Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-60435623110351062992013-08-09T12:08:00.001-07:002013-08-10T06:38:12.895-07:00Bucket List<br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Tyler was telling me a story yesterday about a man who found out he had a terminal illness. He quickly cashed in all his investments and bought a boat… or something like that… and traveled the world. He lived his life to the fullest. Only to find out a couple years later that he had beat the illness and would continue to live. I think he was in his 50’s. Now he’s in a big battle with the IRS because along with liquidating all his money, he decided not to pay taxes on any of it…. whoops.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">His story got us talking about bucket lists and what we would do if we knew we only had a year or so to live. Ty is way simpler then I am. He says he’d quit work and just hang out at home. He also said he’d pray and read his scriptures a lot… <span style="font-size: xx-small;">always so righteous</span>. I on the other hand think I would want to do big things. Problem is I don’t know what any of those big things are.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">We realized that neither of us really have a bucket list. Not that either of us plan on kicking the bucket any time soon, but it would be fun to have SOMETHING on our list. I haven’t told Tyler yet, but I am planning a family meeting where we will come up with some ideas for our lists. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">I plan on living a long life and dying of old age in my sleep. This list will be more of a fun things to do while I’m young and raising kids. I guess it can span into retirement too, I would hate to get bored in my old age. I love making to do lists, I know some people throw those out as they create new lives for themselves, but I LOVE crossing things off my list. I am excited to make this new big list for me and my fam.<span style="font-size: small;"> Help us make our bucket list! What are some things on yours?</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">A quick <span style="font-size: small;">update</span> on Tyler, since that’s why everyone is reading this. He’s doing and feeling great this week. Sleeping really well. He is now in charge of Sawyer in the mornings while I workout and clean. It’s a bigger responsibility then working haha. I picked up a refill of the anitbac prescription that the ID team has him taking. The girl at the Walmart pharmacy asked if I had any questions for the pharmacist <span style="font-size: xx-small;">which is standard</span> I said no, but she went and got him anyway<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> maybe she didn’t hear me? Walmart is pretty loud.</span> He, seeming very concerned, asked: </span><br />
<blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">“Has Robert<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> that’s his real name</span> taken these pills before’</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">“Yep”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">“This dose?”<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> he takes 6 a day</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">“Yep”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">“I’ve never filled a prescription for this amount…”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">“Ya… guess they are just hitting him hard with the meds”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">“I see, What does he have?”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">“…umm…. they don’t know…well, Leukemia but.. obviously that’s not what these are for…you see he had a fever for 2 weeks and the day he took this pill it went away, so he’s still taking them…”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">“oh…”</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">I am officially red flagged as a drug dealer at the Walmart by my home.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">We are still just getting explanations of benefits from our insurance, we’ve only seen one bill so far, but as I was reading through all the EOB’s I noticed that not only do they charge per procedure, and day, but they charge for each and every doctor that visits you. <span style="font-size: xx-small;">And here I was just thinking they enjoyed checking in on us all the time!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Sawyer is STILL teething, I’ve looked in his mouth and it seems like it will be teething torture time for the next month at least. We are working on diversions to distract him from throwing tantrums. He wont eat or drink when upset, I tried teething tablets, I ended up wearing them. He really likes taking Tylenol<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> should I be worried?</span> Sometimes we just have to let him lay on the floor and roll around screaming,<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> one of us has to keep our sanity</span>, and since Sawyer is being unreasonable, it’s going to be me. Next step is given him a frozen teething ring.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">More on Sawyer. He just keeps getting smarter. He’s figured out that even though I hide candy under a blanket, it is still there. He knows that his high chair tray is two parts and enjoys taking off the top part to throw on the floor <span style="font-size: xx-small;">it is especially fun if there’s pasta with red sauce on it.</span> He knows exactly which cabinets are not baby proof and which ones have the dog treats in them. He knows that a tissue coming towards him only means one thing. He can cross the street in no time flat. If he puts his arms up at you and smiles he knows you’ll pick him up, doesn’t matter who you are. He’s pretty sure every square object with buttons is a cell phone, and the only person he could possibly call is daddy. All toys in the loft need to be thrown down stairs. Coins belong in his mouth and my drivers license under the couch, not in my wallet. Books should be pulled off the shelf, covers ripped and pages bent. And lastly, he knows, even if he’s napping, the sound of the front door opening means its time to wake up! When did my baby get so smart?</span>Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-28329409047745663922013-08-04T16:47:00.001-07:002013-08-04T16:49:31.071-07:00Picture update<p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-XyP8EwHB7LM/Uf7n7zpjgYI/AAAAAAAAA0A/jstZYvJphR8/s1600-h/7-24-13%252520476%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><font face="Corbel"><img title="7-24-13 476" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="7-24-13 476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAzj8dcUlEOJ8qsyfq_LIhlGXWyb-HiCnGWCyXAMjf7I_195AC0u1sByW2E9W9iK6N7MFa0EhPdd16dIu7d4npClchWIslRE2LPlTxE6urHF8XI8ZUXON-Y7PfmzLRkYmt53wBYu0Iww/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></font></a></p> <p align="center"><font face="Corbel">Our view from the Huntsman room.</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1L3cExgWfzU/Uf7n88ukQaI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/7BsdrPnSBy8/s1600-h/7-24-13%252520480%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><font face="Corbel"><img title="7-24-13 480" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="7-24-13 480" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-EwaDRJ2d6zA/Uf7n9asGnNI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/VCWkWkZ-iKE/7-24-13%252520480_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244"></font></a></p> <p align="center"><font face="Corbel">The IV pole, they told us we could name it, but we never got that close to it.</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8TqtMagxZCiPoG6uuuV0gmz16gOy87t9wHCDJYl19CvaUljwEulF6951GDQJefdZLSIGsMuhVo8SD90fwyFPLfaC_iN6KEuLXyZ2IX9dQoI-wDxAebKaz1C4m1V_dfK6jhFnpL6g3jQ/s1600-h/7-24-13%252520512%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><font face="Corbel"><img title="7-24-13 512" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="7-24-13 512" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7X5yLI5ahr0/Uf7n-mMoueI/AAAAAAAAA0o/3eSqsd-Ef2g/7-24-13%252520512_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244"></font></a></p> <p align="center"><font face="Corbel">Swollen feet anyone?</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dJuhT0btMUg/Uf7n_FdK1qI/AAAAAAAAA0w/AyZf3AM7tXQ/s1600-h/7-24-13%252520523%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><font face="Corbel"><img title="7-24-13 523" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="7-24-13 523" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguMURuvJDcmpR1DJQ22I6X0xQaZIjfsrystAGpiFfC0fdNMol7WRp_3orzX-lJQV2IN96w4I3QIF4o7BD9yA02LnGANiN5frDzahYY458lKDDdounnTXDIPwrPRrU3ZYWSUQbUzSzDaQ/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></font></a></p> <p align="center"><font face="Corbel">Our view from the U of U.</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMWSJUy2KwlH-I7x8ru9D-diftmEg0I_zhPICBfbhiDbGZV6NL9IOuGQSV20FgDySTte1-sEyzIfjQ4PYKTUBCIKc8arx2vWmBJAviuCMhpUy3Z1rpevJ2eAF7gJ0uvgmGmx_H4C_RWw/s1600-h/7-24-13%252520508%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><font face="Corbel"><img title="7-24-13 508" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="7-24-13 508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL9yWk_k71civVnEZwDTVg9aDRY5O8E_wAlv_NOkElgOL-E4qgDCK-wAMjlW9RwpoOYmXx2d1QvMCaBpnwdXcYk7BeIaj4rYvG3beikdYfluLEtPXlG8PeU75WWmaIXhOZc2U_tKbkew/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></font></a></p> <p align="center"><font face="Corbel">Ordering room service, Tyler’s favorite part of the day.</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFXhwz-IyIchEOFQCVUWJ6XYbkivqdCuegSx4WN_I1eIqIyKI6xrVJm2UzPwvlBkFwVAlSB6QgCrD7Vj2OZxGyMWNhkDYq6RNzFUl5F-fzWUoDQG5Gde8NqaDWoeBE1J0WUhMO4XF-IQ/s1600-h/7-24-13%252520474%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><font face="Corbel"><img title="7-24-13 474" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="7-24-13 474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiehHH5qLYQ5HEpHSyyeGVy5dExlv6jj8WKd2G4djFU-6mgZ1skI2pnVYGJgkJqPM7Feh_1XJ705v7gM5Bs02VN1JKFXLd5EbFf6iG5C9xPmNbwBf3cx0MuOUB90-Wbp9e0ihhDFm6T6g/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></font></a></p> <p align="center"><font face="Corbel">The needles used for the bone marrow biopsy</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4NIP4U1-utU_9CSnUsDB3QPEI2Nl-4e0WLbXR1tKSzXE2OJa4k7Xf8_8HRMIBkTTTRBYa6Z5mKYDhb1BTrxznlOta9H3xNkPOEhnYTWi4ztMfcNWBbANJt__SpMTJ1o8PHZTrwm2zWw/s1600-h/7-24-13%252520504%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><font face="Corbel"><img title="7-24-13 504" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="7-24-13 504" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BTINbv86kZQ/Uf7oChNbrWI/AAAAAAAAA1o/zS_k6eSnSoE/7-24-13%252520504_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></font></a></p> <p align="center"><font face="Corbel">An artist is born.</font></p> <p align="center"><font face="Corbel"></font></p> <p align="center"><font face="Corbel"></font></p> <p align="center"><font face="Corbel"></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-wDuogPtWxyU/Uf7oDMgQZUI/AAAAAAAAA1w/i_4hxGRhECM/s1600-h/7-24-13%252520526%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><font face="Corbel"><img title="7-24-13 526" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="7-24-13 526" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4R4cRRz7Gr0/Uf7oDdcRk2I/AAAAAAAAA10/Kf5H9vx5ZN4/7-24-13%252520526_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></font></a></p> <p align="center"><font face="Corbel">We have lift off.</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-uVTQ01UTp5g/Uf7oD8U4KxI/AAAAAAAAA18/18UC4PI6QbI/s1600-h/7-24-13%252520549%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><font face="Corbel"><img title="7-24-13 549" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="7-24-13 549" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-DHTS4joxAAg/Uf7oEhGsR6I/AAAAAAAAA2I/2dPIYlxwK7U/7-24-13%252520549_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></font></a><font face="Corbel">.</font></p> <p align="center"><font face="Corbel">Our favorite visitor.</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfQkH2S2Wt9ThUsGIMpGa7jcabyxddKO-1n9_J_BsFWU3BZ4XIAKgYESfq9cETRxH_ExTPfa8FPWKkQettblnZwWTzt0fMTFnHaEaHW9-jzjGtTS4jS9_5lv3PmW6Q5uhk2ZSac7Xd8Q/s1600-h/7-24-13%252520561%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><font face="Corbel"><img title="7-24-13 561" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="7-24-13 561" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bGn3-1MLXNs/Uf7oFedXCFI/AAAAAAAAA2Y/POJvJSthzbk/7-24-13%252520561_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244"></font></a></p> <p align="center"><font face="Corbel">Our favorite nurse showing us how long the picc line was.</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvaPvq8z94kicsUueHsBUfC7urVDNZdQESZW-gt9VUAjPtZRmq08SLYCPsLF7WKZ8xN_wK2MzHq3vaWyyc-JbbdT_cFvMLhU37tu8QSdFuGkMk8qeb2g2dFb_8wSDrZd0q-GzEehR-JA/s1600-h/7-24-13%252520533%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><font face="Corbel"><img title="7-24-13 533" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="7-24-13 533" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5DiutwkcS40/Uf7oGUCWPxI/AAAAAAAAA2o/XizfV8_7K2U/7-24-13%252520533_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></font></a></p> <p align="center"><font face="Corbel">He looked way too good to be a cancer patient.</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL5yUDLfi7UTjXBf7wlydFUxao3WWAi7w-8cPMvXgI9_XRDFgqv-cvtTVlCF8sOJ6-45G1yDF3wqupFKskr4opobVMaW2k6KBAFWVV9xDUEK2W57zh8hgPcW7tXEYrKa4lEg48FXmFtQ/s1600-h/7-24-13%252520564%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><font face="Corbel"><img title="7-24-13 564" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="7-24-13 564" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-r65Xnhr8Apg/Uf7oHehF2_I/AAAAAAAAA24/cP-AhJL-Hec/7-24-13%252520564_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244"></font></a></p> <p align="center"><font face="Corbel">Going home!</font></p> Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-29820796447041873592013-08-04T16:36:00.001-07:002013-08-04T16:36:13.677-07:00Life with Leukemia: Weekend Update<p><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--3atAeNe2pI/Uf7laq3ag1I/AAAAAAAAAzo/SI0DjIBJA80/s1600-h/7-24-13%252520495%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="7-24-13 495" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="7-24-13 495" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ErgsncuLfho/Uf7lbP7J34I/AAAAAAAAAzw/5ILEQ2Hj8iI/7-24-13%252520495_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></font></p> <p><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB">Who doesn’t love a family photo from the hospital?</font></p> <p><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB">A whole week has gone by, a whole normal week. Mondays Doctors appointment went well. Dr. D was actually out of the country so we met with a new lady. She was extremely sweet and helpful. They took more blood that day. We asked nurse M about the results from the blood work (from Friday and that day). They hadn't actually received Fridays work, but what they had just taken looked great. His WBC was at 20 something, down from 44. Potassium also down. He can go back to eating bananas, which is a good thing since he is convinced that will prevent Charley horses. </font></p> <p><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB">Oh Charley horses... wondering where that term comes from? So is everyone else, I found </font><a href="http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/charley-horse.html"><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB">THIS</font></a><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB"> and learned a bit about them. </font> <p><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB">I digress, Charley horses. </font> <p><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB">Do you have ANY idea how terrifying it can be to wake up at 2 AM to your husband who has cancer and is taking medication with side effects of all kinds screaming in pain?? I do, it's very uncool. Thankfully it was only a leg cramp. It took a second maybe a few for me to figure it out. I gave him the best advice that I could, and then went back to sleep one of us has to be awake enough to take care of this kid of ours. JK I stayed awake till it was over HOW was I supposed to sleep through the screaming? Poor guy didn't ever go back to sleep for fear it may happen again. Instead he did some Google research on CH's and read his scriptures. </font> <p><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB">Note to self: read scriptures before bed, so as to not receive a painful leg reminded in the middle of the night. </font> <p><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB">But truly honestly I am the WORST at night. THE WORST. No, not just at night, anytime I am woken out of a deep sleep, ok not just a deep sleep, any sleep. Don't believe me, come visit me in the middle of the night, or during a nap for that matter. I should wear a shirt when I sleep that apologizes for my attitude if woken up. And when things happen at night my husband not only has to suffer his afflictions, but has to suffer my wrath as well. Therefore, I think it is always better if I just fall back asleep instead of trying to help, because my help usually turns into bitter torture of some kind. It's annoying for all parties involved.</font> <p><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB">Want to know something else annoying? Being on a pill your life depends on and forgetting it at your moms house. haha Tyler had to drive back home to his moms last night to pick up his pills he left there. I'm glad Ty can drive on his own.</font> <p><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB">The second side affect although I'm not really sure it's a side affect is Tyler's appetite. Now he's never been a bird when it comes to eating, but many of you know he does have issues with some foods and eating too much food. And knock on wood, it seems as if things are better in that area. So since he's healed for the time being why not pig out??? Tyler will go back for second and usually thirds of whatever we are eating. Despite what it may seem upon first glance he's actually not getting skinnier. As a matter of fact he's getting bigger! But just in his stomach of course. Case and point: he came out of the bathroom last night and said </font> <p><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB">" I know why I can't fast tomorrow" </font> <p><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB">we had been discussing whether or not he should participate in fast Sunday with his meds and all </font> <p><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB">Me: "Why?"</font> <p><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB">Tyler: "Because I'm pregnant" pulls up his shirt and put his hand on his stomach.</font> <p><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB">Other then that, life really is normal. The new normal. </font> <p><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB">Tyler has been working. I have been playing with Sawyer. </font> <p><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB">Yesterday Ty laid sod all morning and wasn't dying! We went to the temple that afternoon. I took Sawyer for a walk at night with my neighbor while Tyler finished up his lesson for church. </font> <p><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB">Speaking of Sawyer, since the adults in this house keep getting more boring lets talk about him for a second. </font> <p><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB">I've successfully taught him 4 1/2 REAL words! I even taped him saying them since he refuses perform in public :) He will clearly say mama, dada, cheese, more and nana. The problem with more is that he thinks it means food. Before he has even eaten he wants more, while he's eating he wants more, after he's done and sees you go to eat something he then wants more.</font> <p><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB">Eat much?</font> <p><font color="#0000a0" face="Berlin Sans FB">He may not speak to you, but chances are he will blow the most darling kiss you way! and who can resist a kiss from that cutie? Do I say that every time?</font> <p><font color="#f79646" face="Berlin Sans FB"><font color="#0000a0">Today I am grateful for my neighbor across the street who humors my in my night time craziness. Something happens to me after 11:30PM and she seems to witness it more often then not and will still talk to me that next day.</font> </font> Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-10502277043901612732013-07-28T21:05:00.004-07:002013-07-28T21:05:59.967-07:00Life with Leukemia: Weekend Update<div style="text-align: center;">
Dr. H from the ID team called Tyler on Thursday. Tyler is always so witty. When she said who it was calling he responded with "Hey! I hope you're calling because you have good news for me" They never call with good news. </div>
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But! It wasn't terrible news either. His numbers were just off from Mondays blood work. his WBC (white blood count, remember that for the future) has risen and his potassium levels are high. Nothing too crazy, but they had us go to our doctor down here for some more blood test just to recheck, <span style="font-size: x-small;">of course they wont get the labs until tomorrow when we go in anyways... so I think we wasted that office's time...</span></div>
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Other then that we are the same. Tyler was exhausted from our <em>relaxing</em> trip to Fillmore so he slept pretty well. </div>
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He has been able to work all his calls and attend all his church meetings, <span style="font-size: x-small;">plus the ones I make him go to!</span></div>
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His brother on a mission claims his letters are less exciting now that Ty is out of the hospital and I have to agree, life is pretty boring these days. But we will take it.</div>
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Tonight we went to a trek wrap up fireside. It was great. I really enjoyed my trek experience and the growth that I gained from it. Looking back I see the Lord's hand in getting me to and through trek. I wasn't initially invited to trek. </div>
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I assumed I was going, but they had enough people and didn't need me. Also, I'm sure they knew my husband wouldn't go<span style="font-size: x-small;"> no not because he has cancer, but because he does not enjoy camping. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">So I wasn't going.</span></div>
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While on a trip with my Laurels to Salt Lake the sister in charge of trek randomly, or so it seemed, invited me to go. It caught me off guard. I told her I would talk to Tyler and let her know. Knowing all along I would say yes, I asked Tyler if he minded then let her know I would be going. I was thrilled, but a little nervous about attending without my husband. I tried guilting him into going many times, however Tyler will NOT be swayed by peer pressure of any kind... ever. Just ask him.</div>
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June came and at 5 am in the morning I was walking to the stake center with Lexi and Jordan. It was a 6 hour drive to Martins Cove, a drive I was dreading. It turned out to be the fastest car ride of my life. Thanks to the great company I had. </div>
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We were all given names of people to trek for. Mine was a single woman. Fitting. And as I trekked I could feel the sorrow she must have felt being alone as she walked so many miles. It was painful to watch the other couples support and comfort each other. <span style="font-size: x-small;">for reals, it was three days and I'm just a huge baby, but I felt it! </span><span style="font-size: small;">I felt the courage she would have had to have during our womens pull and the sadness she would have felt when the men would return and celebrate being reunited with their wives. I felt the loneliness she must have known as I walked the trail without a hand to hold. <span style="font-size: x-small;">I considered her alone feelings at night, but I slept on an air mattress with Lex so I was fine then.</span> I also felt her strength as I realized that I could do hard things. I could push forward and have faith that this was for my good. I could find the amazing blessings along the way, like square dancing with my youth, bonding with these awesome YW and YM that I serve, making new friends and strengthening relationships with adults in my ward. I could have a positive attitude and help lift others. I enjoyed trek, and I realize it more each time I think about it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">But tonight as I sat in the fireside I saw trek for what it really was for me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> It was preparation, the Lord knows our paths, HE KNEW what I was coming home to. No more than two weeks later did Tyler get sick. <span style="font-size: x-small;">I was still on my "I appreciate my husband because I missed him so much" high and was willing to do any and all things for him.</span> Then one week later he was diagnosed with Leukemia. And that's when I had to remember I CAN DO HARD THINGS. I know this because I told it to my youth in my testimony, and I told them they could too. Of course once I put it out there it had to be tested right?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I can't let myself down. I need to know I can do it. I want to be strengthened by our trials. </span></div>
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I will forever be grateful for the trek leader who followed whatever prompting she had to invite me to trek, she can now write down a 22nd miracle on her list.</div>
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Again, looking back I see the small miracles that prepped us for this new life of ours and I'm glad we were ready.</div>
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Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-2378348878667832492013-07-28T20:26:00.002-07:002013-07-28T20:26:38.557-07:00Fillmore Family Fun<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Tonight I'll probably need to write up a couple of blogs in order to get all my thoughts out into cyberspace, <span style="font-size: x-small;">because who doesn't want the people of the internet knowing their thoughts?</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I love having and being a friend. It is something that gives me joy. I'm social and enjoy interacting and connecting with other people. Sometimes I think it drives my husband nuts because I constantly want to go visit people or be out of house chatting with neighbors <span style="font-size: x-small;">and I like have him with me in case the convo stalls, which is rare... </span><span style="font-size: small;">So when we moved into this neighborhood it was basically my social life's dream! I am surrounded by fabulous people who I could talk to all day, and night sometimes.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">We have made some great friends here. One set of fabulous friends that we have is Lexi and Jordan. If you know us, you know them. <span style="font-size: x-small;">I could go on and on about our friendship, but that's not the main purpose of this post, otherwise I would have named it "Our Fabulous Friends Lexi and Jordan", but I didn't so lets talk Fillmore.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Lexi's brother and sis-in-law live in Fillmore, UT. The halfway point from here to St. George. They are some more fabulous people! We have stayed at their house once before on our way to SG. Krista is an amazing cook and Riley tells awesome stories about his super cool job. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">It's taking me way to long to get to this story...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Krista throws a family fun weekend in Fillmore for her and Riley's families. And since I'm the kind of friend who adopts themselves into your families, we too were invited. We couldn't go for the whole weekend so we went for the day on Saturday. Thank goodness we did!!! We never really told them we would come. It's always better this way. I know people are way happier to see us when it's a surprise. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Our time there started with an intense Fear Factor game. By the end Tyler was covered in chocolate pudding, I had learned how to tie a tie... barely, I learned that I'm no good at running out from under tables <span style="font-size: x-small;">I have bruises and scrapes, and probably some video footage to prove it</span>, and everyone was a winner. Seriously, so fun! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Next we went swimming at their local swimming pool. Sawyer LOVES pools now! Can I get an AMEN!? He enjoyed every second of swimming while his pop enjoyed a nap on the lawn.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">We headed over to the skate park, only to get drenched on by some sort of torrential rain fall. Don't worry, I (Jordan) only left one window open in the Lexus when I had parked it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">A delicious dutch oven dinner was prepared for us and as we waited for it to cook I spent time with Lexi's parents and a sibling in their trailer. There's nothing I love more then watching that family interact. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">After dinner we dressed in our best disco outfits and went roller skating, <span style="font-size: x-small;">which I am terrible at and shouldn't even attempt. </span><span style="font-size: small;">Tyler enjoyed from the sidelines and was slowing running out of steam, but in true Corinne fashion I convinced him to hold out a bit longer. Or at least until our kiddo lost it, because at that point I'm always finished. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">We headed home that evening wiped out from the funnest day in Fillmore we have ever had. <br />HUGE thanks to Krista and Riley for inviting us down. We will be back soon!</span></div>
Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-17352484586435458962013-07-24T21:36:00.000-07:002013-07-24T21:43:47.049-07:00Life with Leukemia: Late night update...may not make sense<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Thank you to everyone who reads this and is following our life. I appreciate all the compliments I have been given in regards to the blog.</span> <br />
Monday we went back to the ID clinic at the U hospital to have Tyler's follow up appointment. We brought with us the CT scan and X-rays from Friday<span style="font-size: x-small;"> because heaven knows Tyler has been blasted with enough radiation for awhile.</span></div>
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Tyler hasn't been in the lobby of the University of Utah hospital (I went down once to see Sawyer while we stayed there). They have all sorts of clinics and doctors offices there, it's what some of the doctors referred to as a melting pot hospital. As you walk in you are lured into a false sense of security from the sounds of a young girl playing a piano, it seems serene and inviting... don't let that girl fool you. This place is a REAL hospital, where people with REAL SERIOUS injuries go. In the front entry alone I saw people missing limbs, covered in burns, hooked to IV's, riding in wheel chairs and wrapped in bandages. It is not for the faint of heart. </div>
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So I warned Tyler, <span style="font-size: x-small;">because sometimes he's a little faint of heart</span>, of what to expect from the hospital and the hospital did not make a liar of me! It all started with a man blowing his second hand smoke at us as we made our way out of the parking lot, <span style="font-size: x-small;">sir, my husband has leukemia, please don't give him lung cancer as well</span>. We made a mental note to take advantage of the free valet parking next time. Once inside <span style="font-size: x-small;">being serenated by some chopsticks</span> we made our way back to the ID clinic and checked in to see Dr. W. He remembered us from our stay at Huntsman. </div>
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He and the nurse who brought us back both apologized for the "confused and upset" woman in the room next to us. I'm not sure why she was there, but I can tell you she was NOT happy about it. There was a lot of noise coming from her room <span style="font-size: x-small;">remind anyone of our last time there?</span> and it honestly made me feel bad for her. Dr. W explained that they see a lot of mentally ill patients as well as homeless people. <span style="font-size: x-small;">so that explains that. </span></div>
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After seeing the scans Dr. W and Dr. H both came in to tell us that the mystery nodules Ty developed in the hospital were almost gone! <span style="font-size: x-small;">Victory. </span><span style="font-size: small;">They are convinced his pleurisy is nothing extreme and can continue to be managed by taking ibuprofen if he needs it. I love both of those doctors. </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">You know how I feel about kind people, they are both VERY kind.</span></div>
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We finished off the appointment with the custom blood draw and headed home.</div>
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We are always starving after the appointments and I was wanting to try out some tacos and Café Rio. We got some the tacos,<span style="font-size: x-small;"> I made an excellent choice getting those</span>, and headed back to our car. </div>
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Now look, I'm not used to this Salt Lake way of life. There are people walking everywhere! That is something about big cities that I find incredible. People walk all over the place. As I'm starting up my car, <span style="font-size: x-small;">and making a phone call</span>, I wondered what this <strike>blonde hustler</strike> lady standing outside my car window was doing. She looked like she had something to say to us... She finally knocks on the window and proceeds to petition us for some money for gas. <span style="font-size: x-small;">I'm such a push over</span>. We did end of giving her some cash, because maybe she really did need it, if she didn't, that's on her. However, we may not stop for food in SLC again though, <span style="font-size: x-small;">or I may not roll down my car windows while in SLC or ever.</span> </div>
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Tyler is still working on finding a good sleep regimen, it seems to be improving, <span style="font-size: x-small;">that may seem that way because I'm sleeping through the night though...</span></div>
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Ever since finding out Tyler had Leukemia, I've become very aware of all things cancer<span style="font-size: x-small;"> I'm pretty sure there is a term for this, I tried asking Tyler tonight, but he fell asleep before he could answer...at least he's sleeping</span>. I hear ads on the radio, see commercials, see videos online, and find articles that relate to us. Just today I read an article in the Ensign that sounded a lot like the experiences Tyler is having, you can go <a href="https://www.lds.org/ensign/2013/08/grateful-for-life?lang=eng">here</a> to read it. <span style="font-size: x-small;">On a side note, I also read </span><a href="https://www.lds.org/ensign/2013/08/no-corrupt-communication?lang=eng"><span style="font-size: x-small;">this article</span></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"> and realized I may need to tone down my sarcasm</span>... <span style="font-size: x-small;">dang it</span>.</div>
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Something else that's been on my mind recently is the process we will go through to have Tyler typed and matched for a bone marrow transplant. He does NOT need one as of now, but they get all the matching out of the way so if there ever was a time, heaven forbid it gets that bad, it is a quick process. We will go in sometime next month with his siblings to get the process started. If they aren't matches the search begins. You wouldn't believe how hard it can be for some people to find a match. There is a movement, <span style="font-size: x-small;">well a website but I feel like it's a movement</span>, at<a href="http://bethematch.org/Home.aspx"> bethematch.com</a>. It's a donor registry for bone marrow. If I am not a match for Tyler I plan on becoming a donor. </div>
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I can save a life. </div>
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You can too. </div>
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People are always saying they wish there was a cure for cancer, for people with blood cancer this can be it. </div>
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LASTLY <span style="font-size: x-small;">I know this is way too long</span> I went to Zumba this morning. Tyler put Sawyer down for his morning nap while I was there. It was AMAZING! I forgot how much I enjoy Zumba. The instructor was a delight. I am so out of shape it's hilarious. And for some insane reason it was almost emotional for me. To push my body past the point of hurt was something I seriously needed. Have </div>
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you ever cried doing Zumba? Me neither... but I was dang close. I tried to explain it to Ty, but couldn't so I'll spare you the jumbled description, just know I plan on being there every Wednesday morning. And if you see me crying, pretend you didn't.</div>
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Happy Pioneer Day!<br />
P.S. Beware that Tyler is just itching to post his version of this trip to SLC on the blog. It will be full of big words that I couldn't understand well enough to add into my own version. <span style="font-size: x-small;">Glad his brain is still functioning at full speed, wish mine was!</span></div>
Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-46409513143025571362013-07-21T08:56:00.002-07:002013-07-21T08:57:25.353-07:00Life with Leukemia: A Yard Sale and a Hospital<div style="text-align: center;">
All has been well the last couple of days. We are still adjusting. Tyler is still trying to figure out how to sleep. </div>
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Friday morning my darling pregnant<span style="font-size: x-small;"> well she isn't pregnant anymore!</span> friend Lacey asked me to go to a yard sale with her. I LOVE yard sale shopping <span style="font-size: x-small;">who am I kidding, I love ANY shopping</span> so I got Sawyer ready to go and we left. This particular yard sale was in Highland, it was a friend of hers. </div>
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It was HUGE! There were a couple of families involved, <span style="font-size: x-small;">always the best kind. </span><span style="font-size: small;">Lacey's friend had tons of baby clothes so we searched through it for things for her new little girl and my big boy. And man are girls clothes cute!! As we are sifting through these peoples things I started to think I could want to live in Highland! It was such a pretty neighborhood, so clean. The houses were all amazing. I started to picture my life here. Then I started looking around and quickly realized I would NOT fit in here. It was 8am and here I am in my black yoga pants and a shirt I bought at Wal-Mart. I can't even remember if I brushed my hair, but I know I did not put makeup on </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">but I wore sunglasses so no one would know the different right</span>? And here are these highland folk... fully dressed in the trendiest clothes! Hair and makeup done! One girl was even wearing a fedora. I came to the realization I'm too lazy couture wise to be able to live and keep up with these girls. I love where I live too much to want to leave anyhow. <span style="font-size: x-small;">And I am in no way saying the people I live with out here are not trendy or cute, they are just practical. Who wants to get up extra early to get done up for yard sales? Well, maybe some of you do... I don't know...Did I just offend people? </span></div>
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ANYWAY, as I am checking out, because yes they had a checkout line, I looked at my phone and saw that I missed a few calls from Ty. I hurry and call him back,<span style="font-size: x-small;"> <span style="font-size: small;">this annoys Mr. Highland</span> because how rude can I be? </span><span style="font-size: small;">I didn't know how to explain to him that my husband has cancer and I HAVE to answer any and all phone calls that come from him, so I just said "sorry my husband is really sick". Tyler starts telling me that the chest pain that's been lingering is getting worse and he's concerned. Which of course, concerns me. We hurry and pay and start driving home. </span></div>
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Tyler calls again and says it's even worse! I told him I would be calling 911. He decided it wasn't THAT bad. Instead, I called nurse M and she told me to take him to the ER. I relayed that to Lacey, she works at our dr's office, and she said she would get us in there (which she did, bless her heart). Our neighbor brought Tyler to the office. The doctor there was so nice, he's up against Dr. D for kindest doc. He thought it could be a couple of things </div>
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1. A blood clot <span style="font-size: large;">yikes!</span></div>
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or</div>
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2. Pleurisy (go <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pleurisy">here</a> to learn what that is, but keep in mind Ty only had chest pain)</div>
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Tyler had a chest X-ray, which didn't show a whole lot so next step was a CT scan. We had to have that done at Timp. From that scan, they are sure it is pleurisy, but there isn't an infection or anything crazy, just a little swelling. We have had Tyler on ibuprofen and a heating pad (thanks Lexi) since and he is doing tons better. We are glad that it wasn't anything crazy! </div>
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I checked in with the ID team (Dr. W) as Ty was doing the scan and he assured me that this was exactly what we should be doing. And he was glad that we were taking action on the pain.<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Add another Doctor to the kind list!</span></div>
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Monday we have an appointment with Dr. W, already scheduled before this incident, and he will take a look at the x-rays and scan to double check them, but he was even sure, just from the sound of it, that it was pleurisy.</div>
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On another note:</div>
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We have been trying to find ways to help Tyler sleep better and longer. He still wakes up 2 or 3 times a night and it's wearing on him. If anyone has any ideas, we would love to hear them. We do plan on asking the docs on Monday, but he doesn't want to be relying on meds to sleep for the rest of his life.</div>
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Also:</div>
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Congrats to my friends and family Nisha and Adam, AJ and Lacey, Amanda and Jeff, and Allyson and Mickele on the birth of their darling baby girls! I wish I could steal them all and keep them as my own!!</div>
Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-10615252494006550722013-07-18T15:09:00.000-07:002013-07-18T15:09:08.888-07:00Life with Leukemia: Follow Up to Mondays Post<div style="text-align: center;">
Mondays appointment went smoothly, and faster then I expected <span style="font-size: x-small;">it only took 3 hours, not 4</span>. They did a basic work up of Ty; weight, height, blood work, exam... the usual stuff. We saw a couple of nurses, they all ask the same questions. Nurse M came and talked to us about Tyler's blood. The levels were ok. She felt like everything would be better once we started the meds. His spleen is shrinking and will hopefully be back to normal size by next visit.</div>
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Tyler was selected for drug P. The newer, stronger drug. Everyone seems thrilled that he got that drug (probably because it helps with their study a ton to have him on the new drug). But I do feel like they have our best interests at heart as well.</div>
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Then came the scary part... talking more about side effects! They told us a couple of big ones to watch out for and how they might present themselves. They also said it would happen within the first 48-72 hours.</div>
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We've slept poorly, no scratch that, we haven't slept... We go to bed worried about what will happen during the night. Every muscle twitch, itch, or pain causes seems scary. We are three days in now.</div>
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The first night was the worst, <span style="font-size: x-small;">my husband isn't sure how to get out of bed quietly</span>. Tues night, a little better <span style="font-size: x-small;">except for the charlie horse he got in his calf, which obviously required a good yelp</span>. Last night, once we fell asleep, I actually slept all night, and I'm pretty sure Tyler did too. Honestly, those two nights of sleep seemed worse then when Sawyer was a newborn. </div>
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It's been an exhausting couple of days! Poor Sawyer... I've fallen asleep a couple of times while watching him play in his room. Luckily he's not too crazy and can stay out of trouble. Yesterday, he pulled blankets from a basket and put them on top of me. Whose little angel child is this??</div>
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Today we are both feeling abnormally well. Tyler told me his cancer must be gone, <span style="font-size: x-small;">nice try husband</span>.</div>
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Back to the appointment. After meeting with nurse M we then met with Dr. D. He is the kindest man. So soft spoken and calm. We really enjoy meeting with him. He thanked Tyler profusely for taking part in the study. Then we chatted some more about the actual drug and how things should go. Then he left, but not without giving Tyler a hug first! </div>
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We have to go back to Huntsman every Monday for the next month. Lots of follow up tests and things to have done. </div>
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We are so happy that we haven't had any crazy side effects so far. Hopefully it stays that way. </div>
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Tyler has been staying busy catching up with work and friends. It's great to see him back to normal, <span style="font-size: x-small;">although I had hoped his cancer would somehow magically make him dislike the xbox... no luck! jk he rarely plays that thing.</span></div>
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His energy level is rising. We tried going for a walk the other night (did I mention this already?) and he made it a whole whopping block! He asks me to walk at a cancer pace. <span style="font-size: x-small;">it's a work in progress.</span></div>
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I had a friend stop by who is pregnant and it was funny, and a little surreal, to listen to my husband and her compare maladies. Swollen feet, leg cramps, low energy, always hungry, ultra sounds and more I'm sure. I just had to laugh. There is some comfort in knowing that next time I'm pregnant he will have some extra sympathy for me.</div>
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\We joke a lot about using cancer as an excuse in life from now on. It's all jokes, he wouldn't really do that, or so I thought. I found a snake in the backyard a couple days ago. Today I asked him to help me pull a couple bushels of weeds so the stupid snake wouldn't be able to hide. He look at me and said "ohh umm you'll probably have to ask Jordan (our neighbor) to do that" I asked why and he said "well, I do have cancer". ohh brother.</div>
Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-45839048825586644372013-07-16T08:42:00.002-07:002013-07-16T08:42:31.114-07:0011-12 monthsThis poor child. It's a good thing he is happy and independent. He's survived beautifully without his parents. He is lucky to have grandparents who love him and have taken great care of him. <br />
In the last couple of months he has started walking and talking. It blows my mind! <br />
He doesn't enjoy walking with shoes on, but will manage. If he goes barefoot he can pretty much get anywhere. He's started climbing too, <span style="font-size: x-small;">we are in a whole new world of trouble. </span><span style="font-size: small;">I still worry he may be a bit bow legged, but Tyler managed fine as a kiddo, so I know he will too.</span><br />
He talks! Now that's the cutest thing that ever happened. He says Hi and Bye (they are basically the same word) and will give you a wave with it. He says momma and dad and daddy and dada... can you tell who he loves more? He sorta says thank you, dog, cheese (for the camera). <br />
If you ask him for a kiss, you'll get one! Sometimes it's opened mouthed and those teeth are sharp! Speaking of teeth, He's getting a molar!! It makes for funny faces on his part and he tries to soothe it.<br />
His hair is getting way too long and out of control, I know people are wondering when I will cut it, and eventually I'll get around to it.<br />
He can give high fives, fist bumps, thumbs up, <span style="font-size: x-small;">which is really a fist bump but looks like a thumbs up</span>, and hugs.<br />
He is a treat to have around. We have loved being home and spending time with him. He exhausts Tyler pretty quickly, but just this morning Ty let me sleep in while he played with Sawyer. He must be getting some energy back! <br />
Yesterday we had some people come by to visit. I was feeding Sawyer in his highchair, in the kitchen. Tyler opened the front door and Sawyer started yelling, <span style="font-size: x-small;">at the top of his lungs mind you</span>, HI!!!! and waving. He stopped eating and insisted we go to the door so he could visit. <br />
We went to Thanksgiving point with my parents last Friday. I was hoping for more excitement out of Sawyer, but he was only a little thrilled to be there. It was hot, and brilliant me decided we would go to the little farm area. He did yell at a cow, that was entertaining. <br />
We took him on the pony rides. He was excited at first, we have a rocking horse at home, so he grabbed the saddle and started rocking back and forth. That was all fine and dandy till the horse started moving. He practically jumped out of the saddle. We were that mom and baby duo trying our best to stay on the pony without getting stepped on. After a few rounds he warmed up and gave the crowd a couple WEEEEE's. <span style="font-size: x-small;">so darling.</span><br />
I wish I had tons more updates, but really I missed about a month of him growing and the rest is all blurred. I do have some darling pictures that I will upload once I take a friend advice and find an easier way to use blogger! <br />
Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-5537014803572550442013-07-16T08:06:00.002-07:002013-07-16T08:06:29.819-07:00A little understanding (even if you can't REALLY understand) goes a long way<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This video so perfectly describes what I was trying to explain in <a href="http://tccraig.blogspot.com/2013/07/life-with-leukemia.html">this</a> post. I can see myself standing in all sorts of places those first few days with the heading "Just found out her husband has leukemia". Obviously, in a hospital it's easy to look at people and imagine something bad just happened, but you have to realize these people leave the hospital, and you see them on the streets, in the store, at church, everywhere! What would your heading say? What do you wish people REALLY knew about you and your struggles? Do you wish they could just SEE the wording and be able to understand you better?</div>
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Try and be just a little kinder today, be more understanding of the idea that everyone is going through something. And since we can't see inside peoples hearts look inside your own and find that compassion you want others to have for you.</div>
Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-18516907369474340732013-07-15T08:12:00.006-07:002013-07-15T08:17:12.702-07:00Life with Leukemia: The Journey Begins<div style="text-align: center;">
Today marks the start of our lifetime adventure of treating Tyler's CML. We have an appointment at 11:30. They will take more blood <span style="font-size: x-small;">it's amazing that our bodies can give up so much blood</span>, have another EKG, and then wait <span style="font-size: x-small;">and wait</span> while they work on getting us the medicine he will start. That may sound like a quick trip, but I'm estimating it will take <span style="font-size: large;">at least</span> 4 hours, <span style="font-size: x-small;">maybe we can make bets on how long we will be there?</span> We will bring things to entertain ourselves. </div>
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Big shout out to our babysitters who will be taking over now that my parents have left. It was nice having them here as we have had to go back twice already. </div>
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I had a grand plan this morning that I would get Sawyer up an hour earlier so he would take him morning nap at 8:00 instead of 9:00... it's 8:32 and he is most definitely NOT napping! He's in his bed, and is talking to his stuffed zebra. Probably telling it how dumb I am for thinking he would nap any sooner then 9. Oh well, I'll just have to wake him up early from his nap,<span style="font-size: x-small;"> that'll teach him to talk bad about me to his zebra. </span></div>
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It's been getting around and getting mixed up and we want everything to be very clear about what is happening, so let me explain.</div>
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Tyler is taking part in a study at the Huntsman center. It is NOT a trial, but a study. They are taking two of the medications that are commonly used to treat CML and comparing them against each other. One is the very first med that they developed the other is the most recent. I'll distinguish them with a G (being the older) and a P (being the newer). G is approved as a first line drug, meaning it is one they would give people first as treatment. P is approved as a second line, or G failure drug. Meaning if people don't react well enough to G (or a couple of other meds out there) they would switch them to P. </div>
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There are already people on P regularly. It has been through trials and other studies already, and for those of you that care, it is FDA approved. </div>
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The great things (and things that will ease anyone's mind) about this study are:</div>
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-both drugs are FDA approved</div>
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-both treat CML </div>
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-we will know which drug he is given</div>
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-we can drop out of the study at ANY time</div>
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-our doctor can pull us out of the study at ANY time</div>
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-The risks associated with the study are the same we would be facing either way because he would most likely end up on these drugs at some point</div>
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-the risk/side effects are NOT as scary as I would have thought, and are all manageable, and may not even happen.</div>
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-Tyler will receive extra treatment and monitoring at no cost to us</div>
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speaking of COST </div>
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-the meds are free as long as we are on the study</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>And the best part</strong></span></div>
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-Tyler will be helping these doctors better the treatment for CML</div>
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We are ever so grateful for those who have participated in trials and studies (some which may have had way more risks) before us. Because of them, Tyler's CML can be treated and he can live a normal life. We really feel like this trial (<span style="font-size: x-small;">the one of having cancer, not the one at huntsman :)</span> ) has been given to us as a way to help serve and bless others. Tyler wanted me to share this study info with all of you. He feels like the more we share, the more people we can touch and help.</div>
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We feel very safe and comfortable doing this study. We have prayed and know that our Heavenly Father will put Tyler on the medication that is best for him. Please feel free to join us in these prayers this morning as we wait to see which drug he is put on,<span style="font-size: x-small;"> you're welcome to pray that Sawyer will nap too</span>.</div>
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After today we will be going back to Huntsman pretty frequently over the next month <span style="font-size: x-small;">(so if anyone feels like they need a Sawyer fix, just let us know!) f</span><span style="font-size: small;">or lots of follow ups! It will mostly include blood tests. Every 6 months Ty will get a bone marrow biopsy, which we will dread, but handle.</span></div>
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Life can get moving forward for us, just as it is all of you. We are optimistic and excited about our future. </div>
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Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-37545490210351919832013-07-12T14:46:00.000-07:002013-07-12T14:46:33.741-07:00Life with Leukemia: Back to normal (some what normal) life<div style="text-align: center;">
So night two at home was MUCH better! It may have been that we were finally settled in, it may have been the prayers, it may have been the oxycodone... Either way, we will take it! Wednesday was definitely slower for us. We slept a ton! <span style="font-size: x-small;">we do a lot of that. </span><span style="font-size: small;">I went with my parents and Sawyer to check out Scheels. He really liked the fish tank and he was mesmerized by the Ferris wheel, but I'm no dummy, he would have lost it had I tried to take him on it. </span></div>
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We picked up a toy compound bow for Tyler, thinking it would be a fun gift, but it really was made for a little kid. <span style="font-size: x-small;">Which I should have guessed front the picture of the 5 yr old on the box. I had high hopes...</span> So we will take it back and look for another fun toy. </div>
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Tyler decided to try to take another call. He did just one and said that was enough. I know he misses it. <span style="font-size: x-small;">weirdo</span>.</div>
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We got a call from the dr's office. Ty's platelets were super high and his red blood cells <span style="font-size: x-small;">(There's another word for that... hemo-goblin.. jk but really something like that)</span> are low. So they asked us to come back in Thursday. <span style="font-size: x-small;">They must know how much I miss the place. </span><span style="font-size: small;">Ty had a friend come visit that night (wed). He loves seeing everyone! We were brought another delicious dinner. It was a good day.</span></div>
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Thursday we got up bright and early and drove up to Huntsman. It was a quicker visit. They drew labs and we waited to hear what his numbers were. In the meantime the nurse came out. We talked about Ty's lung biopsy, which showed........ absolutely NOTHING! </div>
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This guys body... </div>
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Dr.D thinks the fevers could really be attributed to his CML. I guess we will never really know, and that's ok because he's better now. </div>
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His numbers came back and were a little better. Thank goodness. If things had changed too much he would have needed a transfusion, which would mean coming in on Friday. <br />
They did tell us that his platelets were in the 1 mil range and should only be about 200,000. What an overachiever. </div>
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This appointment I noticed 4 couples sitting in the waiting room with us. They were all around our age. Who knew cancer hit so many young people? </div>
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We came home and... you guessed it, napped again! Tyler woke up before me and went to do some work. I eventually got up and got ready to go to girls camp. OH I'm so glad I went! I was able to be there to hear from our stake presidency, eat dinner, and have a testimony meeting with my girls. They are amazing YW! I'm sad I missed the week of awesome activities they had. I loved hearing their testimonies and sharing mine with them. I think my most favorite part had to be just getting there. The leaders hadn't told them I was coming. It's always a great feeling to see people get excited when they realize you've showed up!</div>
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I reluctantly left around 11:30 and made the trip home. I hate mountain roads a night, can someone please tell the deer to go to sleep when it gets dark and NOT come out for midnight snacks! I did make it home safely though.</div>
Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-9800573756491432022013-07-09T20:42:00.002-07:002013-07-09T20:42:36.921-07:00Life with Leukemia: Home Sweet Home<div style="text-align: center;">
Yesterday morning, after spending 16 days in the hospital, our doctors told us that Tyler could go home! They wanted to see his final blood tests results and such, but that didn't stop me from packing up my things. We spent a lot of time chatting with our sweet nurse about what to expect at home and all sorts of other things. Tyler showered and ate. The nurse came in and pulled out his picc line! That was cool to watch. I took a picture of it, and once I get to uploading them you can see how long it was. The last 30 mins seemed to drag on, but eventually we had gotten our meds, signed the paperwork, and found a way to carry all 7 bags of belongings we had collected,<span style="font-size: x-small;"> you'd think I had lived there months</span>! They had Tyler wheeled out in a wheelchair. </div>
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As we left all the nurses said their goodbyes and there girl pushing us asked how long we had been there, because everyone seemed to know us. I explained Tylers charming ways to her. jk jk, I think the fact that we were some of the youngest people there and some of the least sick, in comparison, it was easier to have conversations with us. <span style="font-size: x-small;">And tyler really did turn on the charm.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">It was a bittersweet moment, leaving, but we are happy to be home.</span></div>
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We came home to a happy baby boy awaiting our arrival. Our house had been cleaned from top to bottom, our laundry done, and food was being brought in. What more could we ask for?! Thank you to everyone who took a part in that! It was a relief not to come home to the house I left two weeks ago, <span style="font-size: x-small;">picture a tornado aftermath</span>.</div>
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People had decorated our driveway and porch. There were sweet notes written on hearts all over the house.</div>
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We were thrilled to be home! </div>
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Tyler had a hard nights sleep. I'm not sure he slept much at all. I know I didn't.</div>
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The day went better. Sawyer was so excited to see my face this morning.</div>
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Our follow-up that was supposed to be Wed, got changed to today. After taking some extra time to shower, <span style="font-size: x-small;">so these people would know that I have another hair style then messy bun</span>, and Tyler taking time to shove his very bloated feet into his shoes. <span style="font-size: x-small;">(at one point at the hospital I couldn't help but laughing as I walked behind him. His poor feet)</span> We headed back up at 11 and didn't get home till around 5. We had to sign more paperwork and Tyler had a few more labs to do. We <span style="font-size: large;">LOVE</span> the new nurse that we will be working with. She is great and really put us at ease.</div>
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As we waited for the lab peeps, a guy walked up that we recognized. I did a double take and remembered him as the guy who sold us our bedroom furniture a few months ago! He recognized us, but it was as we were going in so we didn't get to chat, but what a small world!</div>
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I love how happy all the employees are.</div>
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We swung by the pharmacy real quick to see if one more of Ty's meds had come in. It had, but they wanted $1000 for a 12 day supply! Our nurse jumped right on that and is taking care of it.</div>
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After, we went back to the 4th floor (our home) to ask the nurses a quick question. We got to say goodbye to a few nurses that we hadn't yesterday. Again, I love how they love us, <span style="font-size: x-small;">or at least how they pretend to ;)</span></div>
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Our room is already filled, a little sad about that.</div>
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In true Tyler fashion, Tyler worked for an hour tonight. He called the guy that has been subbing for him and asked if he could take the call back. His people were happy he was back! He was so happy when the hour was up. I know of no one who loves there job like my husband,<span style="font-size: x-small;"> I think he's a little insane</span>.</div>
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We went for a little walk tonight and chatted with a few neighbors. It's nice to be back to normal. Tyler is looking forward to catching up with everyone! </div>
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If your in the neighborhood, check in! We might just be up for a visit :)</div>
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Tyler will start his actual Leukemia meds on Monday. Until then lets all pray I can keep his other ones straight.</div>
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Here's to a better nights sleep and a slower day tomorrow.</div>
Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086008693712529849.post-56490914048245057332013-07-07T12:23:00.002-07:002013-07-07T12:26:56.792-07:00Life with Leukemia: Slow Sunday<div style="text-align: center;">
We haven't had too much going on as of late. Our days are so much slower then they were originally. BUT! Tyler is feeling better, and that's all that matters. Today is day three of no fevers <span style="font-size: x-small;">as of yet today </span><span style="font-size: small;">and we are hoping they don't ever come back, <span style="font-size: x-small;">like ever (exactly ike T-Swifts song this is our breakup with fevers)</span>! We should get some more results tomorrow from the biopsy. But the Drs are happy with how Tyler is magically healing himself.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> If all keeps going well with Tyler they will be able to send us home and we will be able to move forward. Moving forward meaning, taking meds and starting the new chapter in our lives. Tyler is excited to sleep in his own bed, eat food I cook him <span style="font-size: x-small;">that's not really true</span>, work, workout with his bro, and just be normal again.</span></div>
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Tyler is still pretty tired. Things we do on a daily basis that don't even phase us, wear him out! I feel like that's to be expected with how exhausting these last three weeks have been. </div>
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The nurse just asked him if he's walking, to which responded "ya, I walk a lot". </div>
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A lot in Tyler terms = 2 laps around our unit a day</div>
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See what I mean... </div>
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We went to church again today. We were a little late and missed the sacrament. No big deal, after we listened to two testimonies they ended and blessed the sacrament again for us. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Bishop: I would like to institute second sacrament in our ward! I would never miss again! ;)</span></div>
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After church we came down and took our Sunday naps, <span style="font-size: x-small;">which lasted two hours!</span></div>
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Now, our room gets cleaned and Tyler is working up the energy to move from his bed to his chair. There he will draw, he has become a real artist! We figure that can always be his backup plan if he ever needs one.</div>
Corinne & Tyler Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07213826631810376519noreply@blogger.com1