Wendy Joy, Wendy Joy Patterson, of Atlanta Georgia, here. Thought I'd update you on what has been going on in our world.
You already know how our little "weather bug", Spinner Regan, who is nine, is doing: he's written in his journal several times during the last few months. His little "weather games" keep him busy. He is happiest when there are storms in the forecast; he always has to be on top of things, has to know what is going to happen.
Our other two children, six year old Maeli Torrence and four-year-old Carston Stryker, are just as busy. Maeli enjoys being a typical little girl, and Carston enjoys roughhousing with his brother when Spinner isn't into his weather. Carston and Spinner are extremely different from one another; yet they couldn't be closer. They are the best of friends.
Carston has not had any new problems with his spina bifida: no new surgeries, hospital stays, or illnesses (thank the Lord!!), other than a few minor bladder infections or problems involving his catheter bag. While that is annoying in itself, it is a lot better than him having to go under the knife for the umpteenth time or me sleeping on those hard naugahyde waiting room chairs!
Carston has been extremely blessed, as we all have. We definitely thank the Lord for each day that Carston isn't sick or in the hospital!
We pray this trend continues!
In just a few weeks will be the start of summer, not to mention, the Fourth of July. Already we see signs of the Fourth popping up in stores or hearing advertisements for the upcoming Fourth of July celebration here in Atlanta being advertised on radio or on television; it won't be long before the fireworks go off!
If there's something my kids adore, it's fireworks. Well, the boys love them; Maeli isn't too sure yet. I guess the noise hurts her tender little ears; she's never really liked loud, sudden noises. I guess that explains it when she scuttles underneath the bed during a typical Georgia summer thunderstorm, whimpering like a lost puppy.
Carston gets startled by the loud noise too, but at least he doesn't cry about it. He just laughs once he gets over the initial shock.
During the fireworks, we have to hold Maeli while she buries her head underneath my armpit, hands clamped over her ears, as she cries and whimpers in terror. I don't know what the fireworks signify: bombs, perhaps, or gunfire? One may never know why Maeli acts so afraid whenever fireworks go off.
One day we may get to the bottom of it, but until then, we're not going to rob our boys from the enjoyment of the nightflowers exploding in the night sky. It's all part of the fun and excitement of the July Fourth holiday.
My husband, Ethan, has found out that he's off from work on July Fourth, which pleases us; that will give us time to spend with our family--and have fun, besides. This year, July Fourth falls on a weekend (Saturday); it will make for a long, long weekend for all of us. No doubt, the roads will be jammed with holiday travelers as they go to find places to celebrate our nation's birthday.
Last year Ethan had to work; some company had a big job for him at the last minute, and I ended up being the one taking the kids to the parade; we ended up coming home early because Carston had an issue with his catheter bag (seems those "issues" happen at the worst possible time!!). Poor Spinner was mad at him, and Maeli didn't care: as long as she didn't have to see/hear the fireworks popping/exploding over her head, that was fine with her.
Well, I have to get the kids their breakfast, so I will go now. I will write in here again soon; until then, this is Wendy Joy signing off! Take care, and may God bless you! Pray Carston continues to enjoy his good health; we'd greatly appreciate it!
~Love, your friend in Georgia, Wendy Joy Patterson. :D
*to be continued.*
