Rock Climbing

Jake had a really good week. We got to spend time with both sides of our extended family for Christmas, some of which we hadn't seen in a few months. We also had a lot of good quality family time. Todd and the boys took advantage of the nice weather and spent quite a bit of time outside. He and Luke tossed the football while Jake and Todd tossed a lacrosse ball. It was so nice to see them all having fun together.

One highlight of the week (besides Christmas of course!) had to be going rock climbing. Jake and Luke were both on a rock climbing team at Lifetime Fitness for about a year and a half before his aneurysm and have been talking a lot lately about wanting to climb again. Jake's doctor cleared him for climbing at his last visit and thought it might also be really good therapy. There is a rock climbing gym not too far from here so we bought them harnesses and a punch card for visits as part of their Christmas present.

Todd and I were both really excited to take them as well as a little nervous. Jake was a really good climber before and we weren't sure how he was going to react. He had done a little at school a few months ago, but this was "real climbing", tall walls which required harnesses and ropes. I'm happy to report he had a great time and did really well! It was so good to see him reaching and grabbing hold with his left hand, and getting good foot placement with his left foot. He needed some extra support from Todd but it didn't seem to bother him. He was just happy to be there. By the end he was getting pretty tired but they are both looking forward to going back. Here is some video I took http://youtu.be/U3KRj7kLTWE

The botox injections Jake got last week appear to be kicking in. He walking isn't as labored and his left leg is straightening up a bit. I'm looking forward to his PT tomorrow to see what the therapist has to say.

We are looking forward to leaving 2013 behind us and heading into a new year. We've all been through a lot the in the past six months. In addition to the obvious tough stuff, we've gained a lot of new perspective. We've been blessed by seeing the good and kindness in people, have a greater appreciation for the small things, and have grown closer as a family. Wishing you all a very happy 2014.