August 7, 2012
What a difference a year can make! I have spent the day reflecting on this past year. There is really not much to say except God has been faithful to us. He has answered our prayers. Brittany continues her PT twice a week. I would like to see her gain some more strength and balance, but she is doing great.
Brittany will be in her Senior Year. (Still has a little catching up to do didn't get as much accomplished this summer as we hoped, but I know she will do it). Brianna will be starting High School. Donald and Erika will be in the 6th grade. This past week we got unexpected news that Don is going to be transferred to Soldotna, AK down on the Kenai Peninsula. This has been another blow to the kids, but they are strong and will adjust (with some groaning and moaning). I've told myself that after this past year moving doesn't really matter after what we have been through although the idea of moving again is a little overwhelming. Don will move September 1st. Right now the kids and I plan to stay in Fairbanks for the next year. It will probably take some time to sell our house and we would like Brittany to finish her senior year here.
The trial has been moved to November. The reality is there may never be a trial and if there is it will probably drag out for awhile. I am coming to terms with this and giving it to God because He is in control not me.
I have decided that as part of my healing and moving on I wont be blogging anymore.
Thank you for your prayers, love, and support over this past year and for continued prayers.
Love,
Jennifer
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Sunday, May 27, 2012
Its been 2 months since I've blogged anything. First trouble logging in and then tonight I had written my blog hit a wrong button and gone! Wondering if I should still blog? It just seems like I should share more news about God's blessings.
We are so proud of Brittany, Brianna, Donald, and Erika. They have all risen to the challenge and finished their school year March 18th with wonderful grades reflecting their hard work. Brittany would say at least Brianna, Donald, and Erika have finished. Brittany is taking 2 online classes, completing summer work for her fall AP art class, finishing her driving class, and studying to take the ACT and SAT tests. She feels like she's been robbed a bit of her summer, but she is working diligently to finish all of this so she will be on track to graduate with her class. She continues pt 2x's a week.
Erika continues to swim and is building endurance.
Brianna will travel next week to Anchorage for her first comp soccer tournament. I thought I was going to have a pretty easy summer, but both Donald and Erika decided they want to play soccer. (If you need to talk to us we'll be at the soccer fields)
Tomorrow the 6 of us are going to drive down to Healy (accident site). I hope this can be one more part of the healing and moving on process. Like the expression of getting back in the saddle we have to be able to get back on the Parks Hwy! We will have some reflection on the past year and thanksgiving for all our heavenly father has and continues to bless us with.
I thank you again for all the prayers and love bestowed upon us over the past 9 months. I'm not really going to say much, but there will be a trial in August regarding the accident. Please pray for all involved. My prayer is that God will provide healing and understanding.
Jennifer
We are so proud of Brittany, Brianna, Donald, and Erika. They have all risen to the challenge and finished their school year March 18th with wonderful grades reflecting their hard work. Brittany would say at least Brianna, Donald, and Erika have finished. Brittany is taking 2 online classes, completing summer work for her fall AP art class, finishing her driving class, and studying to take the ACT and SAT tests. She feels like she's been robbed a bit of her summer, but she is working diligently to finish all of this so she will be on track to graduate with her class. She continues pt 2x's a week.
Erika continues to swim and is building endurance.
Brianna will travel next week to Anchorage for her first comp soccer tournament. I thought I was going to have a pretty easy summer, but both Donald and Erika decided they want to play soccer. (If you need to talk to us we'll be at the soccer fields)
Tomorrow the 6 of us are going to drive down to Healy (accident site). I hope this can be one more part of the healing and moving on process. Like the expression of getting back in the saddle we have to be able to get back on the Parks Hwy! We will have some reflection on the past year and thanksgiving for all our heavenly father has and continues to bless us with.
I thank you again for all the prayers and love bestowed upon us over the past 9 months. I'm not really going to say much, but there will be a trial in August regarding the accident. Please pray for all involved. My prayer is that God will provide healing and understanding.
Jennifer
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Saturday, March 10,2012
God is truly amazing. He continues to bless our family. We still have lots of bumps in the road, but we are moving forward. This past Tuesday night we put Brittany on the plane to attend Camp Adventure in Lubbock, Texas. This is part of the AIM (Adventures in Missions) program run by Sunset School of Preaching. Brittany was so excited to go. Mom and Dad actually handled it pretty well too!! Brittany will be totally exhausted when she gets home as I'm sure they will be on the go the 10 days she is gone, but it will be a good tired. Brittany is still going to physical therapy twice a week. I hope she can continue to gain more from this.
Please pray for everyone involved in the accident. We are now in the process of starting to settle everything and this has been emotionally draining.
Over the last 7 months while sometimes it has seemed like forever I am reminded by professionals that although it seems like a very long time that for the extent of injuries the girls had it has actually not been that long in their road to recovery. The Great Physician has truly intervened.
Love,
Jennifer
Please pray for everyone involved in the accident. We are now in the process of starting to settle everything and this has been emotionally draining.
Over the last 7 months while sometimes it has seemed like forever I am reminded by professionals that although it seems like a very long time that for the extent of injuries the girls had it has actually not been that long in their road to recovery. The Great Physician has truly intervened.
Love,
Jennifer
Friday, February 10, 2012
February 10, 2012
Brittany has completed one month of school. She is doing amazingly well. She tires easy, but is keeping up with her classes and working very hard. She continues with her physical therapy and is progressing.
Erika tried out for a swim team she basically made the team, but he wants her to have some private lessons before she actually starts (build some endurance). She has met 2x's with one of the assistants high school student. Yesterday she swam 6 laps!!! This will be good for her because of the injuries she sustained.
Brianna is having fun with her competitive soccer.
The exciting news this week was that Donald finished his Fast ForWord program at school. He was the very 1st student to start the program when he was in 3rd grade. Quite a few students have finished before him, but he has worked diligently the last 2 years going to school early. This program computer based and designed to help struggling readers and addressed some of the auditory problems he has. They say steady wins the race and I am so proud of him.
We've had a rough (cold) January, but February has started off nice.
Jennifer
Erika tried out for a swim team she basically made the team, but he wants her to have some private lessons before she actually starts (build some endurance). She has met 2x's with one of the assistants high school student. Yesterday she swam 6 laps!!! This will be good for her because of the injuries she sustained.
Brianna is having fun with her competitive soccer.
The exciting news this week was that Donald finished his Fast ForWord program at school. He was the very 1st student to start the program when he was in 3rd grade. Quite a few students have finished before him, but he has worked diligently the last 2 years going to school early. This program computer based and designed to help struggling readers and addressed some of the auditory problems he has. They say steady wins the race and I am so proud of him.
We've had a rough (cold) January, but February has started off nice.
Jennifer
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Thursday, January 12, 2012
It has been a little over 5 months since the car accident. God has been so good to us!!! We had a nice Christmas with Don's parents here. I think the visit was therapeutic for them to be able to see Brittany and Erika doing better.
The big news is Brittany returned to school full time on January 9. She was excited to do this. She has missed her normal routine and of course all her friends. It is a long day for Brittany and she is tired, but it is a good tired. Pray that she will be able to keep up. Brittany continues physical therapy 2x's a week and continues to get stronger. Next on her agenda is to start driving again, take the driving course and get her license that she had planned to get last August.
Erika is doing wonderful. She finished her physical therapy in December. She can do anything in gym class!!
The wound on Erika's head continues to heal, but not at the rate we would like. She wants to hit the pool so we are working diligently to get this healed.
Donald and Brianna continue to be troopers.
As our family has healed physically I ask that you continue to pray for our emotional well being. Pray that each of us can adapt and accept the changes that have occurred as a result of the accident. No matter how subtle change is hard to accept.
I ask specifically that you pray for me. I think the stress of it all has hit my body (specifically my neck and back). I'm trying some physical therapy myself. I also am working hard to let the kids do the things that they enjoyed before the accident. It is hard because I just want them close to home.
I had good intentions of sending out Christmas cards, but it just didn't happen. I got a beautiful picture frame with several pictures of the kids. My friend said what else could you get for Christmas you already have the best gift. She was so right.
My prayer for you is that God will bless you in 2012. Your love and concern has blessed and will continue to bless us.
Jennifer
For those that want to continue to hear how the kids are doing particularly Brittany I plan on posting/reflecting on the 7th of each month.
The big news is Brittany returned to school full time on January 9. She was excited to do this. She has missed her normal routine and of course all her friends. It is a long day for Brittany and she is tired, but it is a good tired. Pray that she will be able to keep up. Brittany continues physical therapy 2x's a week and continues to get stronger. Next on her agenda is to start driving again, take the driving course and get her license that she had planned to get last August.
Erika is doing wonderful. She finished her physical therapy in December. She can do anything in gym class!!
The wound on Erika's head continues to heal, but not at the rate we would like. She wants to hit the pool so we are working diligently to get this healed.
Donald and Brianna continue to be troopers.
As our family has healed physically I ask that you continue to pray for our emotional well being. Pray that each of us can adapt and accept the changes that have occurred as a result of the accident. No matter how subtle change is hard to accept.
I ask specifically that you pray for me. I think the stress of it all has hit my body (specifically my neck and back). I'm trying some physical therapy myself. I also am working hard to let the kids do the things that they enjoyed before the accident. It is hard because I just want them close to home.
I had good intentions of sending out Christmas cards, but it just didn't happen. I got a beautiful picture frame with several pictures of the kids. My friend said what else could you get for Christmas you already have the best gift. She was so right.
My prayer for you is that God will bless you in 2012. Your love and concern has blessed and will continue to bless us.
Jennifer
For those that want to continue to hear how the kids are doing particularly Brittany I plan on posting/reflecting on the 7th of each month.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Saturday December 17th
Erika and I traveled to Seattle on December 4th. Thankfully at night traffic was relatively light and we had no trouble finding our hotel. Erika had her 1st appointment on Monday. We met with rehab psychologist.
Tuesday she had testing from 9AM to 1:30 with the psychologist and speech therapist. We left right from there to pick up Brittany and Michelle at the airport. I immediatley turned over the combat driving to Michelle. We got to spend Tuesday afternoon/evening with Kristi and Makelya Finley (friends who use to live in Fairbanks) going to the malls.
On Wednesday, Brittany had appointments with the rehab doctor, occupational therapist, physical therapist, psychologist, school teacher and speech therapist. These were back to back appointments from 9 to 2. (Erika had plenty of time to work on school work) Then we had our last appointment for Erika with the psychologist and speech therapist.
Brittany was pleased with her appointment with the rehab doctor. She was given permission to resume activities (contact) next summer, she can do a few now with precautions and limits. Most exciting is that the Dr. said Brittany can resume driving (Mom and Dad think spring will be a good time to pick this back up).
The doctor wants Brittany to continue physical therapy for a couple more months she would like to see her pelvis/hip stronger.
Brittany worked with the PT and OT. She has gained alot of strength since she was there in September all the measurements had improved.
Next we met with the psychologist, school teacher, and speech therapist. This was an emotional meeting for both of us. I think I have been so focused on Brittany's physical well being that I had not fully recognized the emotional toll this has had on Brittany. She opened up about her feelings of missing friends and not being at school full time.
The new semester will bring change for Brittany. She will be returning to school full-time. She will continue PT, but as Erika would say she has graduated from OT and speech.
Brittany may have some long term subtle changes, but God has truly blessed us with a Christmas blessing. He has answered our prayers.
Erika's evaluation went very well. All her testing went well her personal weakness was in her working memory, but it was minimal. Again our prayers have been answered.
To celebrate their good checkups and my birthday we went to the Cheesecake Factory for dinner. You should start with dessert because after eating dinner we didn't have dessert. Took Michelle and Brittany back to the airport.
On Thursday, Erika saw a plastic surgeon to have her eyelid evaluated. Her eyes do not droop. Sometimes the eyelid and the way it is healing gives the appearance that her eye droops. Erika is adamant that she will not be having anything done to it and since mom and dad got their question answered that there is nothing that needs to be done medically everyone was happy with the appointment. They did find one last lonely stitch and removed it!
Now that all of our appointments were over it was time for some fun. We decided to visit the American girl doll store. After all the Seattle combat driving, I couldn't believe it a guy backed into us in the parking lot!! Ugh after an 11/2 hour we got to go to the store. We then changed hotels closer to our friends. Spent the evening with the Finley's and Erika got to have Mikaelya for a sleepover. Spent Friday with Kristi, Dustin, and Mikaelya before flying home.
On December 13th Brittany and Erika saw their orthopedic doctor. Erika has graduated from PT. She will get to return to regular gym class in January. Brittany will continue PT and her own exercise routine. Both girls are healing well, but I ask for your prayers that they have no long term problems from the change in their pelvis.
I look back on these four months and what a long journey it has been in someways, but how much progress they have made in a relatively short time. The Great Physician has truly blessed us.
Jennifer
Let all who seek Thee rejoice and be glad in Thee;
And let those who love Thy salvation say continually,
"Let God be magnified."
Psalm 70:4
Tuesday she had testing from 9AM to 1:30 with the psychologist and speech therapist. We left right from there to pick up Brittany and Michelle at the airport. I immediatley turned over the combat driving to Michelle. We got to spend Tuesday afternoon/evening with Kristi and Makelya Finley (friends who use to live in Fairbanks) going to the malls.
On Wednesday, Brittany had appointments with the rehab doctor, occupational therapist, physical therapist, psychologist, school teacher and speech therapist. These were back to back appointments from 9 to 2. (Erika had plenty of time to work on school work) Then we had our last appointment for Erika with the psychologist and speech therapist.
Brittany was pleased with her appointment with the rehab doctor. She was given permission to resume activities (contact) next summer, she can do a few now with precautions and limits. Most exciting is that the Dr. said Brittany can resume driving (Mom and Dad think spring will be a good time to pick this back up).
The doctor wants Brittany to continue physical therapy for a couple more months she would like to see her pelvis/hip stronger.
Brittany worked with the PT and OT. She has gained alot of strength since she was there in September all the measurements had improved.
Next we met with the psychologist, school teacher, and speech therapist. This was an emotional meeting for both of us. I think I have been so focused on Brittany's physical well being that I had not fully recognized the emotional toll this has had on Brittany. She opened up about her feelings of missing friends and not being at school full time.
The new semester will bring change for Brittany. She will be returning to school full-time. She will continue PT, but as Erika would say she has graduated from OT and speech.
Brittany may have some long term subtle changes, but God has truly blessed us with a Christmas blessing. He has answered our prayers.
Erika's evaluation went very well. All her testing went well her personal weakness was in her working memory, but it was minimal. Again our prayers have been answered.
To celebrate their good checkups and my birthday we went to the Cheesecake Factory for dinner. You should start with dessert because after eating dinner we didn't have dessert. Took Michelle and Brittany back to the airport.
On Thursday, Erika saw a plastic surgeon to have her eyelid evaluated. Her eyes do not droop. Sometimes the eyelid and the way it is healing gives the appearance that her eye droops. Erika is adamant that she will not be having anything done to it and since mom and dad got their question answered that there is nothing that needs to be done medically everyone was happy with the appointment. They did find one last lonely stitch and removed it!
Now that all of our appointments were over it was time for some fun. We decided to visit the American girl doll store. After all the Seattle combat driving, I couldn't believe it a guy backed into us in the parking lot!! Ugh after an 11/2 hour we got to go to the store. We then changed hotels closer to our friends. Spent the evening with the Finley's and Erika got to have Mikaelya for a sleepover. Spent Friday with Kristi, Dustin, and Mikaelya before flying home.
On December 13th Brittany and Erika saw their orthopedic doctor. Erika has graduated from PT. She will get to return to regular gym class in January. Brittany will continue PT and her own exercise routine. Both girls are healing well, but I ask for your prayers that they have no long term problems from the change in their pelvis.
I look back on these four months and what a long journey it has been in someways, but how much progress they have made in a relatively short time. The Great Physician has truly blessed us.
Jennifer
Let all who seek Thee rejoice and be glad in Thee;
And let those who love Thy salvation say continually,
"Let God be magnified."
Psalm 70:4
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Saturday, November 19th
Yesterday and today we celebrated Donald and Erika's 11th birthday. We got to go swimming last night with Tim, Kaylee, Jesse, Juliana, PJ and 2 classmates. Then we had a sleepover three girls upstairs three boys downstairs. Tonight we had some of our Fairbanks family for a birthday celebration at home. The Taylor's, Mondelli's, and Mellon's joined us.
I want to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. I know this Thanksgiving I will be reflecting on how much our family has to be thankful for. We have been blessed by God and so many people those close to us and those we've never met, but have touched our lives.
I am not going to blog next week, but please keep us in your prayers. Brittany, Erika, Michelle, and I will be traveling to Seattle from December 4 - 9th for follow- up evaluations (and hopefully a little fun).
I want to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. I know this Thanksgiving I will be reflecting on how much our family has to be thankful for. We have been blessed by God and so many people those close to us and those we've never met, but have touched our lives.
I am not going to blog next week, but please keep us in your prayers. Brittany, Erika, Michelle, and I will be traveling to Seattle from December 4 - 9th for follow- up evaluations (and hopefully a little fun).
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Sunday November 13th
I realized this morning that I forgot to blog last night. Erika had a successful return to full school days this week. I think she is more tired than she likes to admit, but it is a good tired. She continues to work hard in PT and is looking forward to getting to go swimming this Friday to celebrate her 11th birthday. Please continue to pray for Erika's physical healing, but also for some of her anxieties to lessen. She has been through a lot for a 10 year old to understand.
Brianna and Donald have been willing helpers (the majority of the time). While they have healed physically I want to share how proud of them I am for their academic achievements through this stressful time. Brianna just received an award certificate for earning a 4.0. Donald made a great gain in his reading (first time I remember having to change his IEP because he was reaching the goal).
Brittany continues to work hard in speech, OT, and PT. She is also planning to take a history course through BYU. She should start it in the next few weeks. Brittany is doing well in her Algebra and Art class. Brittany would like to return to school full time next semester. This is a huge goal for her. Prayers would be appreciated. Her OT recommended she have further evaluation of her hand so she will be seeing her orthopedic Dr. on Tuesday please pray that no surgery will be required.
I know I said I would post some new pictures and I will try soon.
Jennifer
Give all your worries to him, because he cares about you.
New Century Version I Peter 5:7
Brianna and Donald have been willing helpers (the majority of the time). While they have healed physically I want to share how proud of them I am for their academic achievements through this stressful time. Brianna just received an award certificate for earning a 4.0. Donald made a great gain in his reading (first time I remember having to change his IEP because he was reaching the goal).
Brittany continues to work hard in speech, OT, and PT. She is also planning to take a history course through BYU. She should start it in the next few weeks. Brittany is doing well in her Algebra and Art class. Brittany would like to return to school full time next semester. This is a huge goal for her. Prayers would be appreciated. Her OT recommended she have further evaluation of her hand so she will be seeing her orthopedic Dr. on Tuesday please pray that no surgery will be required.
I know I said I would post some new pictures and I will try soon.
Jennifer
Give all your worries to him, because he cares about you.
New Century Version I Peter 5:7
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Saturday Nov. 5, 2011
Brittany and Erika continue to get stronger each day. Erika seems to be on a faster course than Brittany at the moment. Therapies continue several days a week for both girls. Erika will return to school full days this coming Monday. Thank you for your continued prayers over the past three months. It has been a long journey and I try to face each day recognizing the blessings we have been given.
Jennifer
Jennifer
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Saturday, October 29th
This was an exciting week!!! Erika, Brittany, and Kaylee are all crutch free. The girls continue to work hard in their therapies. Please pray for them to be patient while having to wait to return to some of their physical activities it's not easy. I can tell the girls are still experiencing some discomfort, but just seeing them walk reminds me of how excited parents are when their baby takes their first steps. I am reminded daily how truly blessed we are. Next week I will get the real blogger (Michelle) to help me post some pictures. Thank you for the continued prayers.
Jennifer
Jennifer
Sunday, October 23, 2011
October 22, Saturday
We started the week off with celebrating Brittany's 17th birthday!!! We had lunch on Sunday with friends from church. On Monday the rifle team had a surprise party for her. What a blessing to be able to celebrate this day.
Brittany had her first outpatient PT. She did very well. She continues with OT and speech. Brittany was able to shoot a whole target this week standing. Her aim is pretty right on now if she can continue to build her endurance.( a match requires shooting 6 targets) She was granted a waiver that is allowing her to participate even though she is only enrolled in 2 classes.
Erika continues to go to school half days. She has enjoyed getting to return to her ELP class. Erika got to go outside for a couple recesses this week, but after a rough go one day she decided maybe indoor recess wasn't such a bad idea after all. She will see the orthopedic Dr. later this week. Please pray this week for the wound on her head to heal quickly she is eager to hit the swimming pool, but this is holding her back.
The big news this week for Brianna was that she was asked to join the Eclipse 98 competitive soccer team. Needless to say she was very excited and she has worked hard toward this. Go Brianna Go Eclipse. (I will thank Michelle in advance since I know that since Cristina is playing I'll have help.)
I can't leave Don and Donald out they left yesterday with two friends Mr. Robert and Grandpa Robert to go hunting for a bison. Don has been putting in for this permit for 20+ years and of all years his name was drawn. They will return tomorrow. (So far the bison are winning) They will have a few more opportunities, but it would be nice if they could get one before the deep freeze settles in.
Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refugee in Him. (NIV)
God Bless All of You
Jennifer
Brittany had her first outpatient PT. She did very well. She continues with OT and speech. Brittany was able to shoot a whole target this week standing. Her aim is pretty right on now if she can continue to build her endurance.( a match requires shooting 6 targets) She was granted a waiver that is allowing her to participate even though she is only enrolled in 2 classes.
Erika continues to go to school half days. She has enjoyed getting to return to her ELP class. Erika got to go outside for a couple recesses this week, but after a rough go one day she decided maybe indoor recess wasn't such a bad idea after all. She will see the orthopedic Dr. later this week. Please pray this week for the wound on her head to heal quickly she is eager to hit the swimming pool, but this is holding her back.
The big news this week for Brianna was that she was asked to join the Eclipse 98 competitive soccer team. Needless to say she was very excited and she has worked hard toward this. Go Brianna Go Eclipse. (I will thank Michelle in advance since I know that since Cristina is playing I'll have help.)
I can't leave Don and Donald out they left yesterday with two friends Mr. Robert and Grandpa Robert to go hunting for a bison. Don has been putting in for this permit for 20+ years and of all years his name was drawn. They will return tomorrow. (So far the bison are winning) They will have a few more opportunities, but it would be nice if they could get one before the deep freeze settles in.
Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refugee in Him. (NIV)
God Bless All of You
Jennifer
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Saturday October 15th
Erika attended school half day all week. :) She was caught playing badminton standing up when the agreement was she would sit in a chair to play during PE.
Erika also started outpatient physical therapy this week and was excited to get to take a few steps without her crutches.
Brittany was able to shoot two shots in air rifle standing this week. (Shot 9's) She will be continuing to build up her strength.
Brittany saw the orthopedic doctor on Friday and is now full weight bearing on her right side. She is only required to use one crutch. She will start outpatient PT this week.
Thank you for the continued prayers.
"Oh Lord My God,
I cried to you for help
And you have healed Me"
Psalm 30:2
Jennifer (operator of the looney bin)
Erika also started outpatient physical therapy this week and was excited to get to take a few steps without her crutches.
Brittany was able to shoot two shots in air rifle standing this week. (Shot 9's) She will be continuing to build up her strength.
Brittany saw the orthopedic doctor on Friday and is now full weight bearing on her right side. She is only required to use one crutch. She will start outpatient PT this week.
Thank you for the continued prayers.
"Oh Lord My God,
I cried to you for help
And you have healed Me"
Psalm 30:2
Jennifer (operator of the looney bin)
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Sunday, 10pm
Monday: Erika began school with math class, recess, and lunch with much success. She is excited to be back.
Tuesday: Erika attended her first Girl Scout meeting of the year.
Wednesday: Brittany was able to shoot air rifle with the rifle team. She has been allowed to participate!
Thursday: Erika's last homebound physical therapy. Now on to outpatient therapy!
Friday: Beth and Leiah Reichel made a surprise visit to see the Stickel's and Bennett's. They were able to help celebrate Tim's birthday. Pictures to come later.
Saturday: Brianna scored three times in her soccer game!
Continued prayers for psychological healing for all the victims and their caretakers.
3 His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.
1 Peter 1:3 NIV
Michelle Mondelli
Tuesday: Erika attended her first Girl Scout meeting of the year.
Wednesday: Brittany was able to shoot air rifle with the rifle team. She has been allowed to participate!
Thursday: Erika's last homebound physical therapy. Now on to outpatient therapy!
Friday: Beth and Leiah Reichel made a surprise visit to see the Stickel's and Bennett's. They were able to help celebrate Tim's birthday. Pictures to come later.
Saturday: Brianna scored three times in her soccer game!
Continued prayers for psychological healing for all the victims and their caretakers.
3 His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.
1 Peter 1:3 NIV
Michelle Mondelli
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Saturday, 10pm
The week in review:
Sunday: It was a great day and I wish I had my camera at church! It was the first time since the accident that all the Bennett's and Stickel's were able to worship together. Even Granddaddy joined them!
Tuesday: Brittany began school at Lathrop. She is taking 2 classes, math and Honors Art. She also continued her Occupational and Speech Therapy in the Outpatient setting. Erika also had her last homebound speech therapy and tutoring session.
Friday (Erika): The big news is Erika is cast free! She will need crutches for the next month, but is full weight bearing on both legs. She is ultra-excited! She will be starting school on Monday, beginning with math, lunch, and recess. (She's got the important stuff in!) Please pray for a smooth transition.
Friday (Brittany): Brittany got the final medical clearance she needs to be able to participate on the Lathrop Rifle Team. Because she is not taking a full case load, she needs a waiver to compete. Please pray she gets this waiver. Competing has been her goal since they took the ventilator out.
Saturday (today): Granddaddy and Grandma Jo left this morning to go back home in Juneau.Their departure was bittersweet. They were appreciated by many for the help, emotional support, and love they were able to provide while they were here, but it's good thing that Don and Jennifer feel like they can function as a family, again.
Saturday (Brianna): Brianna played in her first competitive soccer game this morning. (Yes, it's indoor soccer.) The team didn't win, but it is a milestone. It was her first game since the accident.
Jennifer is glad to be home, (this is the longest she's been home since before the accident,) but is a bit overwhelmed with the amount of decisions and tasks that come with having children with a variety of "new" needs. She is glad she has the daily challenges because it means life at the "Looney Bin #1" is working on the return to normal (whatever that is/was!).
He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. Psalms 91:4
Michelle Mondelli
(of the Looney Bin #2)
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Saturday, 11pm
It was a busy day. All four Bennett kids played games together with Jesse, Kaylee, and Tim Stickel. Brittany and her friend, Briana, made a trip to Fred Meyer and shopped for some items lost in the accident.
There are lots of appointments this coming week for both Erika and Brittany. We would like prayers to make good decisions to help Brit back to school and to begin the transition for Erika. Because the girls' progress is slower and not as dramatic now, we will try to blog once a week for those that still want occasional updates. Jennifer feels a little overwhelmed but is thankful to be home, even though she isn't sleeping in her own bed, yet. You can bet the kids and Don are glad she's home. She received a dozen peach roses tonight!
Oh, how generous and gracious our Lord was! He filled me with the faith and love that come from Christ Jesus.
~ 1 Timothy 1:14, NLT
Michelle Mondelli
(head writer for the Looney Bin)
There are lots of appointments this coming week for both Erika and Brittany. We would like prayers to make good decisions to help Brit back to school and to begin the transition for Erika. Because the girls' progress is slower and not as dramatic now, we will try to blog once a week for those that still want occasional updates. Jennifer feels a little overwhelmed but is thankful to be home, even though she isn't sleeping in her own bed, yet. You can bet the kids and Don are glad she's home. She received a dozen peach roses tonight!
Oh, how generous and gracious our Lord was! He filled me with the faith and love that come from Christ Jesus.
~ 1 Timothy 1:14, NLT
Michelle Mondelli
(head writer for the Looney Bin)
Friday, September 23, 2011
Friday, 9:45pm
The big day has arrived! Brittany made it into Fairbanks at about 9pm and was met by family and friends. More details to follow tomorrow.
Michelle Mondelli
Michelle Mondelli
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Thursday, 10pm
The most exciting news of the day is Brianna got her cast off today! She is very excited to be able to do sports again. Soccer, here she comes!
Brittany finished up her evaluations in Seattle. She will be coming home tomorrow. Things look good for her. She will continue with Speech and Occupational Therapy on an outpatient basis. Physical Therapy will be added as her leg and pelvis improve and she is able to bear weight once again. She has been cleared for school, but has been advised not to dive in. She will need to take it slow (probably only a couple of classes) considering she has lots of make up work to complete. (School has been in session for five weeks now.) Brittany is excited about being cleared for air rifle. The doctors in Anchorage didn't think she'd be able to do it. She has amazed everyone! The girls are "walking" miracles!
New International Version (©1984)
Jesus replied, "What is impossible with men is possible with God."
Luke 18:27
Michelle Mondelli (in Fairbanks)
New International Version (©1984)
Jesus replied, "What is impossible with men is possible with God."
Luke 18:27
Michelle Mondelli (in Fairbanks)
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Tuesday, 4pm
I am blogging early today because (regrettably) I have to catch a flight back to Fairbanks this evening.
Brittany had another busy day. This morning was OT, PT, and then school and speech. Brittany's second OT session was held in the pool!
This afternoon Speech Therapy and Recreational Therapy (TR) took Brittany and us on an outing. We went back to the "California-style" mall. This time we went for cupcakes at a cute little shop. All the therapists seem pleased with Brittany's progress so far.
It has been a quirky day also. The clock in Brittany's room was off by about 25 minutes when Jennifer and I got here this morning. As we were looking at the clock trying to determine how far off it was, the hands started going around and around at a break-neck speed! It was weird! This continued for at least 10 minutes and now the clock is an hour fast. There was also a fire drill this morning. Brittany was at "school" in the day room and the nurse closed the door to her regular room where Jennifer and I were sitting. Also, quirky is the name of Brittany's evening nurse. His name is Happy (we think).
Then the way you live will always honor and please the Lord, and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit. All the while, you will grow as you learn to know God better and better.
~ Colossians 1:10, NLT
Michelle Mondelli (in Seattle)
Brittany had another busy day. This morning was OT, PT, and then school and speech. Brittany's second OT session was held in the pool!
This afternoon Speech Therapy and Recreational Therapy (TR) took Brittany and us on an outing. We went back to the "California-style" mall. This time we went for cupcakes at a cute little shop. All the therapists seem pleased with Brittany's progress so far.
It has been a quirky day also. The clock in Brittany's room was off by about 25 minutes when Jennifer and I got here this morning. As we were looking at the clock trying to determine how far off it was, the hands started going around and around at a break-neck speed! It was weird! This continued for at least 10 minutes and now the clock is an hour fast. There was also a fire drill this morning. Brittany was at "school" in the day room and the nurse closed the door to her regular room where Jennifer and I were sitting. Also, quirky is the name of Brittany's evening nurse. His name is Happy (we think).
Then the way you live will always honor and please the Lord, and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit. All the while, you will grow as you learn to know God better and better.
~ Colossians 1:10, NLT
Michelle Mondelli (in Seattle)
Monday, September 19, 2011
Monday, 11pm
Brittany was in good spirits today. The doctors extended her therapies by 15 minutes each to 45 minutes this morning and a half hour this afternoon. Brittany also attended a group session of speech/recreational therapy. She was excited to begin school. She even had "homework"--finish a math assessment. A bright spot of Brittany's day may have been the Olive Garden fettucine we brought for dinner. It was a very full day and she fell asleep early.
The highlight of the day was finding out Brittany will be able to go back to Fairbanks soon, probably Friday. She is still trying to find an accomplice to get out earlier. There are still more assessments to complete. Therapies need to be arranged in Fairbanks, also.
Psalm 89:2, 8
I will declare that your love stands firm forever, that you established your faithfulness in heaven itself... O LORD God Almighty, who is like you? You are mighty, O LORD, and your faithfulness surrounds you.
Michelle Mondelli
The highlight of the day was finding out Brittany will be able to go back to Fairbanks soon, probably Friday. She is still trying to find an accomplice to get out earlier. There are still more assessments to complete. Therapies need to be arranged in Fairbanks, also.
Psalm 89:2, 8
I will declare that your love stands firm forever, that you established your faithfulness in heaven itself... O LORD God Almighty, who is like you? You are mighty, O LORD, and your faithfulness surrounds you.
Michelle Mondelli
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