The Stander

Zach's New Carseat
He Likes His Stander
Zachary's stander arrived early last week. He seems to enjoy it, although it is a little big for him at this time, so he is fairly limited in what he can do while in it. The basic premise of the stander is to support Zach's torso, keeping him upright while putting some weight on his legs at the same time. It has wheels similar to a wheel chair, so when he does reach a certain height he should be able to move the wheels with his hands and move around. As you can see from the pics he already grabs onto the wheels, but hasn't quite figured out the movements of them just yet. It's alright, we can't expect a 10 month old to be able to figure everything out instantly. So for now we have him in the stander for longer periods each day, but are limited to only the kitchen and front entry since those are the only non-carpeted areas!

With each new week we see more and more improvement from Zachary, and we utilize new "tools" to help him with those improvements. Our little inspiration continues to amaze us each day, and we're so grateful for all the joy he has brought to our lives. October is Spina Bifida awareness month, take a minute to learn more about it, and educate others about this ailment and how you can support those affected by it. Our Love to You All - Brian + Kimmie

Busy, Busy

With Daddy on the hayride
With Mommy on the hayride
These two pumpkins look just right!
Family photo op by the wagon

The Thinker
Tummy Time!!

Zach and Daddy in the Snow!!

We have been very busy the past few weeks (sorry about the underlined text, can't figure out how to fix it?!), and were greeted with our first real snowfall of the season yesterday morning. We all went to the pumpkin patch last weekend, and Zachary had his first hayride, and pumpkin picking experience! We did make a short trip to the pediatrician recently because Zach was very fussy and uncomfortable on Monday, and were told he has an intestinal virus that should pass with a little time, and plenty of rest. So no medication to assist in the recovery, and no relief from the stinky diapers, but he does appear (and smell) much better now that a few days have passed. He is back to his old happy-self, and enjoying all the play time with Mommy and Daddy! His stander is scheduled to arrive tomorrow, so that should further his development with standing and supporting his full weight. Jennifer, his physical therapist has been doing a great job with Zach, and she has been a God send for getting things like his stander, and some new shoes to fit over is AFO's. The week ahead should be "normal" for the Zurliene household. No Dr.'s appointments, or conferences for Mommy at school, and the weather should warm up nicely so we can get in a few more evening walks with Zach before his bedtime. We hope Fall is finding you all in good spirits, and we will most certainly be posting again soon. With Love and Praise - Brian + Kimmie