EYE EXAM-TAKE 2

On Monday, I took Stephanie to Lens Crafters to have her eyes checked. It was a stressful experience all the way around. Stephanie is not a big fan of new people or unfamiliar situations, and she had crocodile tears as she sat waiting for her exam. The doctor told us that Stephanie's left eye has reduced vision, but that glasses would not correct the problem. He told me that we would have to do vision therapy with a pediatric optometrist. When I asked him for a referral, he didn't know of any in the area. He left me dumbfounded and went on to the next patient. I was frustrated with myself because I chose Lens Crafters for her exam because of our insurance over going to Doctor Patten's office where I knew Stephanie would be more comfortable.

As any concerned and crying mother would do, I called Martha Patten to share my frustrations with her. She had me talk to her husband, Doug, who is an optometrist. He said that he would check Stephanie's eyes and give me his thoughts.

So this morning, Steph and I went to Dr. Patten's office for a very thorough exam. He did a great job with Stephanie. As buddies outside of the office, they were so cute together in this environment. Stephanie was so much more relaxed in his office and with his exams. She even laughed and joked with Dr. Patten.

Even though Doug's diagnosis was the same, it was a much better experience. I feel so much better having his second opinion. Next time, we skip Lens Crafters and go straight to Dr. Patten's office.

THANKS DOUG AND STAFF FOR MAKING THIS MORNING A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE FOR STEPHANIE! WE ARE SO FORTUNATE TO HAVE YOU IN OUR LIVES. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DOUG, AND ENJOY YOUR HUGS AND KISSES FROM STEPHANIE! :)

Christmas in LaGrange

The holidays are upon us, and this is the time for pure craziness. Shopping, cooking, Christmas cards, Santa, expectations, commercialism, etc. etc. etc. We tend to be consumed with the "to-do" lists of the season. With all of the hustle and bustle of the season, we often don't stop to feel the strong Spirit that is in the air and reflect deeply on the miracle of Christ's birth.

I am grateful for the opportunity that we had as a family this past weekend to reflect on the Savior and to feel of His love as we set aside the busyness of the season to spend time celebrating the true meaning of Christmas with the Blazzard family and their friends.

On Saturday, our family was invited by the Blazzard family to LaGrange for a Christmas bonfire celebration with some of their family and friends. It was our first time to drive to this area. LaGrange is located in the foothills overlooking the Tuolumne river.


After dinner, the Blazzard girls helped the children with costumes for a reenactment of the Christmas story. Brother Blazzard read the Christmas story, as the children gathered around the stable and manger. The setting was perfect. A make-shift lean-to, a cold, crisp night, stars overhead, the wind gently blowing throught the trees, and the leaves rustling as the angels and shephards came to the stable, the campfire giving off a warm glow. It was so calm and peaceful as we sat under the stars thinking about the miracle of the season.

I want to thank the Blazzards again for a picture perfect night. The scenic view was breathtaking. The evening air was crisp, clear, and refreshing. The sunset over the foothills memorable. The food was delicious. The company was wonderful. The Spirit was present. It was a wonderful evening and a great way to keep Christmas-Christ-centered.

Thank you Marrianne and Ben (and family) for such a wonderful evening. You guys are awesome.