Afternoon Drive

We typically don't do much in the way of spontaneity when it comes to Riley because he takes a lot of time and effort to pack up and tote around.  We definitely don't do many spontaneous things when it comes to just Marc and Me because we can't just drop him off to anyone to watch. This winter has been compiled of lots of pajamas, tv, naps and just a whole lot of nothing.  Yesterday on a whim I thought that we could use some fresh air and some new scenery so we took a little drive down to Manti, Utah.  Marc and I were married in the Manti Temple and we've never taken Riley down to see it.  It's about 2 hours away from us and it was a bright sunny day, aside from the wind chill, it was beautiful.  Riley was sound asleep in the car when we pulled up so he was not thrilled about getting out of the car. As soon as we got back in the car he was all smiles again...what a stinker.

A quick shot on the steps where some of our wedding photos were taken and then we piled back in the car. But the trip wouldn't be complete with out a stop at the Malt Shoppe for a twist cone.

On the way home we took a pitstop and Grandma and Grandpa Ogden's house since they don't get up to see Riley very often.  Then we headed over to my mom's house so we could skype baby Clayton.  Riley thought that was the best part of the day.  It was so nice to get out of the house for an afternoon.  All I can say is I'm so ready for spring!

Birthday Bash

Another birthday has come and gone and I now can consider myself 'in' my 30s. The day was pretty much uneventful but ended on a high note with a 2 hour wait at the Cheesecake Factory and Marc being drenched with diet coke by the waitress which on the bright side scored him a free dinner. This birthday was a night and day difference from last year. So thus far 31 has deemed worthy of greatness purely for the ability to avoid illness and hospital stays. 31 treat me well.

30 vs 31...liking 31 much better

science and religion.

For the past 5 years I have lived in the presence of an everyday miracle and his name is Riley.  Torn between science and faith has left me questioning his fate for this Earthly life. Every day brings new challenges and worries and uncertainty  leaving me wondering if the decisions I make for him are going to be the best in the long run.  The past few years have been very difficult watching some of our closest SMA friends say good bye to their children.  This has left me riddled with survivors guilt constantly asking the question why Riley has been blessed with strength and health that these children with the same disease were not given?  People tell me that my diligence with his cares have kept him strong and healthy but this simply isn't true. These parents are just as diligent if not more than me and yet Riley continues make great strides. Should I abandon my training and knowledge of science and statistical date for an eternal perspective that I don't completely understand? I know that we each have a purpose and we are to fulfill our duties on this Earth for how ever much time that takes. At times this is a difficult concept to follow and I think that's where faith comes in.  It's not so much having faith of miracles through the power of prayer or what have you. I think it goes beyond that. Having the faith to accept the understanding of our role in this life and the purpose/potential that we all possess. Such a fine line between science and religion.