Boy oh Boy...SOY!

As our family adjusts to the changes in Blake's diet, one of our biggest tackles is the fact that he can not have an legumes - which includes SOY. It is in everything! A couple of weeks ago, I had a great appointment with a nutritionist at Phoenix Children's Hospital. She was able to break down the properties of soy for me, and what parts are worse than others. As we grocery shop and look at packaged and processed foods, we have really noticed that soy is an ingredient in 80% of all products. So I have begun the process of making many things from scratch. I haven't done that in a long while, and I am actually enjoying it. Does it take a little longer - yes, but it is so worth it. We are all benefiting from it. It seems something is always going on the stove and the house always smells yummy - reminds me of my Mom and Nonna when they were in the kitchen all the time. I am thankful that I love to cook and that I was blessed to have great teachers along the way :)

Shop and It Helps!

In March of this year, Blake was diagnosed with a rare form of liver disease, called Wilson's Disease. His body is unable to process the mineral copper (who knew?) He is currently undergoing treatment at Phoenix Children's Hospital-we see the doctors about every 4-6 weeks. The disease is not curable, but can be treatable if caught early. As the Christmas season approaches (or is already here...), many of you might be doing some of your shopping online. I'd like for you to consider something as you shop. As you spend your money, I have a neat way that you can help Blake at the same time. If you go to www.goodshop.com you are able to search/shop from a list of 100's of stores. When you are done your shopping, and are at the checkout for that website, these stores will then make a donation to the Wilson Disease Association- the group that is researching for a cure and better treatment for Blake and other patients with this disease. When you are asked "who do you support" from the website, type in "WDA". Thank you in advance for thinking of Blake, and for helping out the team that works so hard to see him get better!

Merry Christmas!

PS- you can shop from this site all year long - not just at Christmas!

Just in Case

Just in case you think we might have forgotten about this blog, trust us when I tell you we haven't. Our main computer at the house is down and dead. That is where the computer softeware is for the camera. So instead of photos, stories, and info, we are only going to be able to share stories and info for a while. As soon as we get the computer thing taken care of, I will have lots to share with you.

We are all keeping busy; school, church, work, sports...all the things we love and enjoy!

Rockies Come To The Desert!

(trying something new and fun with photos)

Our family was able to go to some baseball games a couple of weekends ago; Arizona Diamondbacks vs Colorado Rockies. Our Rockies won 2 of the 3 games. It's really amazing to walk Chase Field and see so many Colorado fans. We had a lot of fun. The boys were able to get close and see some of their favorite players, as well as get some baseballs signed. It was another fantastic time to be together as a family!

Wilson

We haven't updated on Blake's health in a while. In a nutshell, Blake's progress is slow and isn't really where the doctor wants it to be. We all know that it is a long process to get him to a stable point; Dr. Mc Omber (pictured here with Blake) thinks it will be at least a year before we can look at maintenance medication. So until that point, Blake is now taking 6 pills a day. At our last appointment, Dr. Mc Omber told us that he feels that Blake's liver is swollen as it is trying to clear all the copper out, and he is concerned that some of the other filter organs may be working harder to compensate. We have another appointment in 6 weeks, and lab work to complete before that. When you see Blake, you would never know that he had a sick liver, as the boy eats non stop and is pretty active. He is a very good patient, and the team at Phoenix Children's Hospital loves it when he comes in. We ask that you continue to pray with us that we can get him leveled out on his medication schedule and that the medicine will continue to do its job.

A Whole New World

Blake had a class presentation this past week at school called "The Wax Museum". Every class member had to dress up and portray a world explorer that they had chosen and done research on. Blake presentation was about Pedro Menedez D'Aviles (founder of St. Augustine, Florida). He had an entire speech to give every time someone stood in front of him at his desk and pushed the red button on the piece of paper. I think I saw Blake give his speech 5+ times. He did a great job. Blake is also a member of the ZBC team at school (the in-school TV program; with news, sports and weather). Blake is the sportscaster on Wednesdays. He researches his own stories and then memorizes his script each time before he goes on camera. It's a lot of fun. Who knows, one day it could be ESPN!

Football!

Craig is playing freshman football this semester. He is a defensive and a tight end; plays both offense and defense. It is a large team and we are really proud of him that he made it through all the final cuts to be part of the team. He is #96 and we cheer loudly for him and the school at each game. He has recently been injured with a severe back strain (bummer)and is out for a minimum of 3 weeks. He still supports the team and is on the field every day helping in anyway he can. We are praying that he heals soon, as the rival game between Fremont Jr. High and Shepard Jr. High is at the end of October; he really wants to play in that game. Go Falcons! On game days, all the players have to get dressed up for school; they really stand out among all the other students. Craig II looks so grown up and handsome! :) Blake begins flag football this Saturday, so I will share photos of him soon. Go Dolphins!

The first of a few...

It's been forever since I last wrote anything, so I am playing catch up. I was going to post all this info in one large post, but I think a few at a time is more fun. :) So depending on how you read this is could be current info, or old news.

August 12th began the new school year. Craig II is in 9th grade, and Blake is in 5th grade. The phrase of "time flies so quickly as they get older" is now more evident than ever. Both boys are doing really well in school so far this year. Blake was bumped up to advanced math (he didn't get that gift from me), and Craig II is taking an engineering class that he really likes (again, not a gift from me)- they are already looking forward to their week off in October. :)

Champion Hoops Camp

This past week, Craig II and Blake participated in a basketball camp.  They worked really hard and had so much fun.  This is the second year our church has provided this camp. We had about 115 students participate.  All the kids had so much fun, and they learned a lot about the game, and life as well.  I was part of the administration team - so I "played" off the court, but was able to try and play when I could (Dad, you would have gotten a good laugh watching me, I am sure).  We have the privilege of bringing in Melvin Adams to work with the kids.  He is a former Harlem Globetrotter and NBA player.  He is amazing - both in the game and with the kids.  We are already looking forward to next summer, and the outreach that this event provides.

Some Time Away

Our family was finally able to take a few days last week
and go to San Diego for a vacation. We love that city.
We were able to spend a day at the zoo, a day at Sea World
and some time at the beach before coming home. My sister
Elise and her boys Dominic and Dante joined us as well.
We all had a great time! Here are a few pictures to give
you a little idea of our time together.

Another Blake Update

Blake had another appointment today - we see the doctor every 6-8 weeks. I will start by saying that we love Phoenix Children's Hospital and Dr. McOmber! He is awesome and so concerned with Blake's health and treatment. Blake had to have his medication adjusted, as his liver is not getting rid of the copper as fast as the doctor would like to see. So now Blake has to take 5 pills a day instead of 3; 2 in the morning, 1 in the afternoon, and 2 at night. The good side of this is that it will bring Blake one step closer to a maintenance program. The downside of this is that as the liver is trying to get rid of more copper, there will be abdominal pain. And the hard part, for me as the Mom, is that I can't do anything to take the pain away. Please pray that the side effects from the additional medication are minimal, if there are any at all. Dr. McOmber also doesn't see a need for another biopsy anytime soon - we are so glad to hear that. Blake's food restrictions still remain the same; not as fun, but we are adjusting.
Thank you for praying for Blake - we are thankful for it, and for you, our friends and family too.

Random Activities

Crazy busy here at the Herrman's. For those that don't know, it's Summer Explosion time at church (VBS). Its that time of year when I am only home long enough to catch my breath and then head back to work; but I love it. My guys are so supportive; even if they miss me they still give me encouragement for what I do. Here is what else is going on:

• Blake got his braces off! His teeth are so straight. He lost two more teeth when they took the brackets off, so now he has a retainer to hold everything in place while the new teeth come in. Did you know you can pick the color of the retainer and choose a decal to go in the acrylic color? I didn't - but Blake did. He is now sporting a bright red retainer with an Atlanta Falcons symbol in the middle.


• Craig II had a really bad case of the flu - was it swine flu? Who knows. Lots of kids who went to summer camp came back sick - not a great way to end an awesome week in Big Bear, California.


• Craig II is getting ready for football; even participated in a passing league game the other night. It was 106' outside at the beginning. I wonder, if they have indoor arenas in Colorado that protect people from the winter weather, (so they can play soccer and such) why don't we have indoor arenas with a/c? The boys didn't even have full gear on, and oh man was it hot.

As soon as things settle down a bit - I will post more frequently. :)

A Praise To Share!

After trying to be patient for 6 weeks (not one of my strengths), we received word today from the Mayo Clinic that Craig II is only a carrier of the gene that causes Wilsons’ Disease (meaning he doesn't have the disease). You have no idea how happy we are. God has answered our pray. Craig II is on his way to camp up in Big Bear, California today with the Jr. Higher’s from church and I couldn't wait to tell him the fantastic news. So I found out which bus he was in and made the call. He is so happy!!! He too has been waiting, wondering if and how his life was going to change with a diagnosis. Now we can all relax and move forward and focus on taking care of Blake.
Thank you all for being such an amazing support to our family. God has blessed us with wonderful family and friends, and we are forever grateful!

Seriously?... Updated

So, the toilets are all fixed (yea to my amazing husband), and the cactus hasn't fallen over. The TV's on the other hand; not so good. Our big screen that we got for $10 ten years ago is officially dead, and the other big screen that has been so faithful, is done. We have the expensive option to fix it, with only a 50/50 chance that it will still work. So we have come up with a "stand in" at the moment as we try to decide what we are going to do. Oh well, we move on.

Seriously?

Has there ever been a day in your life when you wonder just what else could be around the corner? In the last 3 days, 2 of our 3 toilets have broken, 2 of our 3 TV's have died and the large agave cactus in the front yard that bloomed this spring is dying (if it has not done so already) and could fall over. So, we smile, get frustrated, deal with it, feel blessed for what we do have and pray that no one gets hurt if the cactus falls into the street :) Just thought I would share.

Mom's Day!

Our family spent Mother's Day at the Wild Life World Zoo and Aquarium. It was so nice just being the four of us. We had a really fun time - finished our evening off at The Fish Market Restaurant (Blake's choice for his birthday - combo celebration! ). I love my guys - they are all gifts from God!

My Turn

Well, it was finally my turn. I received a "golden ticket" from the Mesa Police Department last night. Now I get the choice of paying the fine, fighting the ticket in court, or going to traffic school. I couldn't even get a warning even though the police officer said I was prepared, polite and honest. I even shared with him the names of those that I know on the police force, maybe, just hoping to sway the dreaded piece of paper- but to no avail. Oh, I deserved it - really, I did.

Blake's Day

Today, our boy is 10 years old; where did the time go? Our blue eyed wonder is a blessing to us. Recently diagnosed with Wilson's Disease (a disease of the liver), Blake has not let it slow him down. He is so involved with baseball and football. He likes hanging out with his friends at school and home, and thinks church is a great place to be. He is a fun little brother, a very gentle and kind servant, with a caring and tender heart. Like his brother, he too is a funny boy, and we laugh a lot at our house. We love you more each day Blake. Happy birthday! (Photo of Blake at 6mo old!)

Learning Something New

Craig and I are in Sonoma County, California. We will be going to UCSF today for an all day symposium on Wilson's Disease. We are looking forward to learning everything we can about the disease, and how to best help Blake.

Play Ball!

The boys have begun spring little league. Craig II plays for the Owls (a rookie team for the Angels) in the juniors division, and Blake plays for the San Diego Padres in the minors division. It is fun to watch them do what they like to do :) We have games through June, so the fun has begun. Here are their pictures for this season...

Happy Birthday!

Craig II is 14 years old today! Where does the time go? He is so special to us. He is taller than his Mom (close to being taller than his Dad) and is an amazing big brother. He is a driven athlete, a dedicated student, a budding comedian, has great friends, and has a servants heart. He is a child of God who strives to follow Him daily. We love this young man like there is no tomorrow and are so blessed to have him in our lives. Happy birthday Craig!

(2nd birthday photo - oh so cute!)

The Day Has Arrived

Blake has been waiting for this day for the entire school year. All the 4th grade classes at his school are on their way to the Grand Canyon. It is a big field trip; they left at 6am and will get home around midnight. The kids have school work packets that they do while on the drive; they also stop off at Montezuma's Castle (Indian ruins) for a brief time on the way up to the canyon. They will hike a 3 mile part of the canyon, then stop at NAU (Northen Arizona University) for dinner on the way home. Craig went as a chaperon (He went with Craig's class four years ago as well) and Blake is very happy about that! I can't wait to hear all about their adventure!

Reconnecting

I love Facebook! We have been able to find so many friends.  One of the newest finds are all of the people who we traveled with back in 1989 with Continental Singers.  I know, that is sooo long ago.  We are spread out all over the globe; yet through the computer, we keep in touch on a regular basis - for free:)  It is great to see everyone still singing or playing in worship bands - some are pastors, teachers, missionaries, public leaders etc.  Everyone  still has a passion for the Lord and serves Him with their whole heart.  Once I find a picture of Craig and I from back then, that won't scare too many of you, I will have to post it for all to see - think 80's style and big hair.  Oh my...

Hello Wilson!

Blake had a liver biopsy today to confirm a diagnosis of Wilsons Disease from his doctors. It is a condition where the liver cannot process the mineral, copper (who knew?). Only 1 in 30,000 people have this disease - so Blake is above normal:) He was so brave and such a trooper today - he didn't cry or show any fear through all the blood draws, IV's etc...he was actually really cool about the whole thing. He did however have a reaction to the anesthesia when they tried to wake him up. He apparently went "kung fu" (his brothers words) on the nurses - kicking, waving his arms, grabbing things, etc..oops. I would have loved to see that. Thank you to all our family and friends who prayed for him today. There was great peace about the whole thing and we are really blessed.

Blake in preop with his St. Patrick's Day hat (thanks ME)

Blake in recovery after a long "nap"

Desert Spring

As I am working in the house today; laundry, organizing, downloading pictures (to post on this blog), etc... I have all the windows open and spring is in the air! So much so, that Craig II and I are feeling the effects of it. Ah sweet blooming Palo Verde Trees and Claritin - what a match!

Still Trying

I have such great pictures to post from our trip, with stories and blessings to go along with it. Our computer is sick, which is making it hard to stay online long enough to post anything. So, we are taking it to the doctor, and hopefully it will be fixed. In the meantime I will be working, patiently, on writing something to post as soon as it lets me :(

Ready to be stretched

Our family is leaving this Friday morning to go to Puerto Penasco , Mexico. We are part of a team from our church (150 people) that are going to help some families, by building them a home. Mind you, this is not a "trip" to Mexico. It is tent camping, with very "rustic" facilities - meaning, there basically aren't any (stretch). I can't believe I am saying this - but I can't wait to go! We went last year and were blessed beyond belief. Knowing what I know now, I am a little nervous about a few things (stretch), but overall I can't wait to meet our family and get started! The weather forecast is showing rain (stretch), and I can imagine that will make things a little interesting. This trip is so much more than a whirlwind of construction. It is unbelievable that in 3 days, from the ground up, we construct a home for a family - 4 walls, a roof, 2 doors and 2 windows. Nothing else-no electricity, running water, etc. This is more than they could ever ask for, and we are humbled that we are called to provide. God has really blessed this trip in so many ways before we even leave town- financially, supplies, people, etc.  We would love it if you would pray for us as we travel and work,  that we would put aside our own personal needs and not complain when it gets rough (stretch).  Also pray for the families who we will minister to - we have a great opportunity to show the love of Christ as we work side by side for a brief 3 days.  This is going to be an amazing experience, and I look forward to posting picture and stories for you when we get back. :)

A few thoughts...

Instead of trying to remember to post all the time with the fun and interesting things that go on around here, I am going to try a different approach.
So, with that being said...

• History was made last week- may not like it, but we will pray anyway
• Cardinals in the superbowl- who knew?
  
• An oldest son who is soo close to being taller than I am
  
• A youngest son who loves football
• A husband who is a working machine and is so good at his job; yeah to a new dealership!
• A kids praise team that gets it!
• A job that stretches me; and it is good
• Friends our sons have chosen; so much fun
• Surprise nerf gun attacks!
  
• International beer fest invites:)
• Guitar lessons and an oldest son who likes them
• The end of the tunnel for a youngest son and his braces; almost
  
• Strong family study - looking forward to the journey
  
• Golden spoon certificates from an honor roll student
• Helping choose high school courses for next years registration
  
• Mexico trip meetings and prep work
• Friends that are blessings and we can't live without
• Isaiah 40:28-31

I Can Only Laugh!

Yesterday was one of those days. A morning that was stressful, yet manageable (prayer works well), an afternoon that was fun(doing laundry, watching football and having some of Craig II's friends at the house), and an evening that turned out to be eventful. I decided to order pizza for dinner - big favorite of jr. high guys. Since I ordered over the phone, the delivery guy would need to see my debit card when he came to the door. Craig handled the transaction with my card when the pizza came. I made sure everyone was "good to go", and went grocery shopping. After my marathon shop, I was putting all my bags into my cart and started to pay, when I panicked, realizing I never got my debit card back from Craig. I called Craig to ask him to come and "bail me out", urging him to come quickly. He said he was just getting off the freeway to take one of Craig II's friends home. I asked that he come and help me first, and joked that he needed to drive fast, but just don't get a ticket. Well....10 minutes goes by and Craig II calls ("Mom, you won't believe this") to tell me that they have been pulled over! I seriously could not have made this up. Craig got a warning (what?!!) and a lecture and came to the store to save me. So, all I can do is laugh. We will start over again today; it's a blessing to know God is in control:)

SISTERS

OK, guarda che è così carino

translation is a little off I think :)

xo

So...

I have realized that much can happen since my last post. My sister and her boys were here, we celebrated Christmas, my dad and his wife Dena came for a visit, and we celebrated New Years.

Here are a few pictures of the events mentioned above...