Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Christ is in our midst!
Hello all, It’s been awhile! The year 2024 was most eventful. I am currently writing to you, very late and while my youngest nurses, and plays the piano with his foot. Talk about talent! Anyway, to fill you in, my toddler has a genetic condition called Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, the TSC 2 strand. This causes his body to prevent suppression of tumours. Therefore, he has growths on his brain and heart.
The tumours or (growths because they’re technically not big enough to be called tumours) were causing him to seize daily, and preventing him from reaching his true potential developmentally. My husband and I made the difficult decision for him to have Neuro surgery.
November 19th he had his first procedure. He had two more procedures that same week. We were discharged the day before Thanksgiving. My youngest has not had a seizure since his last brain surgery. He is stronger, sharper and doing so many new things, Glory to God!
My family and I are trying to transition to life since little one’s surgeries. Stress interferes with relationships and it really takes constant prayer to stay afloat.
As far as homeschooling, I’ve been worried about being “behind” and also trying to embrace what this year has given us. We’ve handcrafted to the point that they’re needing a break from it. We’ve been enjoying nature walks, reading good literature, although my eldest has been reading “The Bronze Bow” ever so slowly. I may have to read it aloud to him. He is also re-reading Harry Potter, which he enjoys more. I did buy him “The Hobbit” for Christmas but he had trouble understanding it on his own.
None, the less, as Charlotte Mason says, is “ Do the next thing next.” My middle one has been working on self regulating, routines, coloring, reading and math. Piano here and there. We read aloud, often. Chores in our cozy space are challenging. I’ve tried lists, routine charts, yelling and complaining. Any feedback is appreciated. Don’t get me wrong, they do alot but it’s not smooth all the time. It’s not always orderly. It’s annoying. 😊
I’ve made sourdough discard crackers and bone broth that were a hit this year! Elderberry syrup and an onion and honey syrup made for immunity and sickness! I’ve been praying to be good at things again and discover other ways of staying healthy. Raising a family takes alot of time and effort. My husband and I have ventured in marital counseling. It has taken just that to bring about struggles that are quite obvious and not so.
I’m sure I have more to write about but I’m eager to post since it’s been awhile, and hope to more consistently! I welcome any parental tips, schooling tricks, and fruitful conversation!
