Well its Sunday the 15th Fathers day and on this day I woke up and all I could do is think about how much you mean to me so I thout I would let you know how much I LOVE YOU! and to tell you HAPPY FATHERS DAY

HI KIP! This website is really different now! I just registered, so ya thought I’d leave ya a comment!
Well talk to ya lata! LOVE YA!
~Billie

Hello Blomquists-
Just wanted to drop a note on your new guestbook! You guys are always in my thoughts. Boot camp is ALMOST done so hopefully I will be able to spend somemore quality time with ya all.
Love and miss you-
Angie

Ohhh….geez…it’s been along time! I’m sorry it’s taken me so long to write an update (it’s going to be a long one)…gotta love summer! Things are going well in the Blomquist household! As good as good can be expected…or “just fine” as Kip says (I hate it!). It’s not his “wonderful” that we’re all used to hearing, but sometimes he still sneaks one of them out. We started Lithium! We went to HCMC for our quarterly and “that’s the buzz in the ALS world”…many of you have seen/heard! We wanted to be part of a study, but never really heard back…so we started thru our family dr. The last thing we have is more time to wait. It’s only been about three weeks, so we’re not sure if it’s working…he has a Dr. appt on August 8th (I think). Just have to make sure his kidney, liver and all that fun stuff is holding up. So far so good. Kip’s not one for taking meds, but he takes anything I give him now a days:-) He used to ask…now he just goes with the flow. He takes Lithium, Rilutek, Flexall, IBU when he hurts and Bacloffen. I think that’s it. A couple vitamins too…

We’ve also upped his Re-liv shakes. There’s an ALS patient in Alabama who has shown great improvement…who knows what’s true and what’s not true, but Kip quit taking them (money!) and he started to get worse, so we decided to get back on them. Plus, when he’s hungry it’s nice!!!
He is getting along and uses his walker (or I should say his girlfriend) 100% of the time. The kids and I even got him a little fanny (yes…fanny!!) bag so he can store the phone, cigars and even a can cooler if he likes! It’s cute! Speaking of phone (in case you call and get no answer)…it takes him a bit longer to get it out of his pocket (cell) or to get to it in the house, but it’s darn cute watching him try to hustle! I usually help him rip it out of his pocket, but sometimes I opt to say “well, you missed that one” and giggle!

That’s one thing that’s great about this icky disease…his laughing. It’s almost hurtful to watch him giggle because you end up laughing right along with him just as hard! It’s great! I can’t tell you enough how many times we’ve laughed over his falls as he’s laid out…it helps keep the heart upbeat. One of his most recent falls, he accidentally landed on Breana’s wicker clothes basket and the 1st thing I said was “ohhh man, now we have to buy Breana a new laundry basket”…we both laughed! Not every fall is as “delicate” as we hope for…he’s got a long way down.

I’m sure many have heard, but he started having problems with his lower back. The chiropractor said the muscles in his lower back are deteriorating, so he’ll a lot of back spasms. He’s had a pretty tough month with that (I can’t tell you how many times we’ve watched Oceans 11, 12 & 13, but he’s starting to feel much better. He had slept in his recliner and I had been sleeping on the couch for 5 weeks up until yesterday (He’ll be by my side until the day God decides he needs another helper up there). We purchased a sleep number. It’s adjustable, so he can alleviate some of the swelling in his ankles and I can rest comfortable with my twitches next to me. I often joke because we know someone who has a van that we will borrow when he is fully in his wheel chair and I asked him if we could get cool plates that said “Twitches”…it didn’t go over so well:-) We still have time to talk about it

Another funny…Can you say Bathroom breaks!!! I mean really!!! That zipper can really kick his butt! He’s just like a little kid because he waits so long and then bounces! I may have to start watching him and after three beers make him go to our awesome (it’s so high) toilet!! He’s not a very fast mover, so when he holds it’s until the last minute it gets scary!

Kip also fell about two weeks ago and we think he cracked a couple of ribs…I had looked it up and made a few phone calls and there’s not much they can do for that. He had a hard time breathing at first, but fortunately no punctured lung. He’s getting better and better everyday. The only thing that hurts is sneezing and laughing hard:-) I tell him I hope it hurts often…it signifies how much he laughs and we need him to keep smiling!

In a couple of weeks, we are going down the Apple River with our friends that are also dealing with ALS…The Vlecks! We CANNOT WAIT to go to the Apple River with them and I especially can’t wait to talk with Steph, John’s wife (not on that weekend of course b/c we don’t want to think bad…right, Steph?!…It’s the good times that we cherish so much right now)! I think it helps to talk with someone who really knows how icky this is and is in the same place I am. I hope the kids can relate a lot too…as well as John & Kip!! We had emailed the other day and she mentioned how John had fallen out of bed and was still there when she left for work…I just had to laugh because most would say “OMG”, but we have to take the attitude of “at least their getting some rest” I just invested in a “beer hat”…yep, two beers fit on the top…that’s another BAD part…it’s hard to hold your beer!! He doesn’t really care for it, but I like it:-) I think he’s just embarrassed because his heads too big:-) Sorry honey! I thought we’d bring that down the river!

Last, but not least…Anger level? Kip has NEVER been one to get upset and sometimes I just want to leave him on the side of the street (not really, but I often joke about it)! He definitely has gotten a bit more “short-fused”…but again, that laughing helps!! We both find it hard to be SO serious that way!! Our new thing is…as long as we say I love you after every mean comment then it’s A.O.K!! You should hear us…”You A$$hole!!!! I love you”…it’s hard to be mad at the big lug! Be aware when you ask for his opinion…or maybe just don’t ask! J/K…he still gives great advice…it’s just straight to the point! He’s also been much more emotional…especially yesterday…his bracelet broke. He’d never taken his initial one off and it broke on him last night. He was pretty teared up. It was tough…but seriously…we ordered 500!! I should just put 3 at a time on him! That way he knows there will always be one! No really…I understand his sadness though…it was tough.

Kids Update: Breana is off to St. Cloud on August 24th…that will be a very sad day for all of us. We’re going to miss her to pieces and she’s only 50 miles away. Mitch is working at the strawberry farm…it’s so cute…he picks up his buddy Austin (I was just in him mom’s wedding this weekend…Congratulations Jenny & Denny!!) and they head to work. They grow so fast. Jordan is such a good big brother!! Maddie had her shots and Jordan wanted to do everything…he held her while she had her shots and she didn’t even cry! It was unbelievable! Those two just adore each other. Maddie gets her Graduation GC from Gillette’s next week…her head and neck look great! As hard as that was to hear, time went by fast!

My oh my…I think I could even write more, but I might bog down http://www.forkip.com

p.s. I’ve asked Kerri if we can go back to the old guestbook…I’ve heard it’s a lot more confusing and not as easy to post a wonderful message. We’ll see if she has time…she’s got her hands full too and still makes time for all of us! Thank you Kerri!

Love to all and “Never Give Up”…Love, Shannon (Kip, Breana, Mitch, Jordan & Madison)

Never worry about bogging down this site! It’s not possible, baby!

Hi kip! debbie loves giving me grief for posting. her and sue talk all the time (they do!!!!). but anyway, just a quick hello from me and amy. hope all is ok. see you soon!

Brad

Hey Blomquist’s!
It was so good seeing you this last weekend at Angie’s. Kip, Thanks for the ride on the Rhino. That thing is a beast! I am glad you enjoy it. Shannon, I will be over sometime for those sunglasses of mine. The new pair I had broke this morning…darn. You guys have fun at Apple River! Sounds like a blast. I think you should bring the beer hat, Kip! Be safe and have another great week and weekend! Never give up!
Love Always,
The Schottenbauer’s
Brad, Amy, Jeg and Kendall
P.S. Brad and Brian WON the Bracket III Drag Race in Brainerd. Whooohoooo! Finally….

Hello! I finally got in! I think I was about to have withdrawals. Just wanted to say “hello” and I love you all. Kane and I cannot wait for the Apple River. The Shasta is calling our names! Kerri, great job on the website - it’s pretty cool lookin’. Well, we all know how hard I work, so I better get back to it.

Love ya,
Rian

Just stopping by to say Hello, It sounds like you have been keeping pretty busy. Keep it up!

HEY,
JUST WANTED TO STOP BY AND SAY HELLO AND READ ALL THE COMMENTS AND SEE HOW YOUR DOING.I JUST WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT I AM ALWAYS THINKING AND PRAYING FOR YA….H.J.

Hi,

I just wanted to say how much fun I had Saturday at Rian’s house getting to know you guys. I had a blast Sat night and can’t remember the last time I had that much fun and played that many card games! Take care! Love- Kelly

Hi Kip. May each day bring you fresh strength. Shannon, thank you for the update and being real. Sending warm thoughts your way . . . Missy

Hi Guys!
Wow…what a great site. Kerri, thank you for all your hard work on keeping this updated and easy to use for everyone.

Kip, I hope you are doing well. I think of you everyday and thank my lucky stars that you are in our lives. You have brought so much fun, excitement and joy into Shannon’s life and for that I could never thank you enough.

Please let me know if there is anything I can do or if you need anything. I’m here for you…even if I’m “all the way in Minneapolis :)”

Looking forward to the ALS walk in St Cloud!
Love you all so much,
Sonia

Hey Kip & Family!
Well i thought i would stop by and say hello! You all are in my thoughts and i hope you all are doing well.
Crystal Godfrey

Hi Kip and family, just wanted to say hello and send our good wishes. Dave wanted me to tell you he stopped by today and another day last week. He thought you guys might just have a beer together! Sorry he missed you. We think of you all often, Debra and David

Hello Blomquist’s!
Just checking in. Hope all is well with the Blomquist Bunch and the float down the river went swell. You will have to update us. Keep smiling. Stay in touch!

Love,
The Schottenbauer’s

Kip and Shannon-
We had a great time with you at Apple River! We are so glad we got to hang out for a weekend. I don’t know about you, but we have not recovered yet. Don’t worry, the motto is “what happens on the river stays on the river…”

Hi Kip and Shannon!
I am so glad I got to know you guys this past weekend. Was bummed I wasn’t able to say goodbye, we had to take off early. According to Steph, “What happends on the river stays on the river…” so I’m quite thankful for that! Just want to say thanks to you guys and Kane and Rian for putting up with me; you guys ROCK! I’m hoping we can all get together again soon, we had a lot of fun (from what I remember)!
Never Give Up! Love ya!
Amy

Hello everyone!! I have two updates…one from 8/4 and one from 8/15 (following)…I have be unable to access it…but today it worked!!! Just keep in mind this one is old news now, but I figured I’d post it! Lots to read!! Thank you for all your comments…on the weekends we all talk about who posted and what they said…it’s pretty cute:)

Here we go:

Things at the Blomquist’s are going well. Grandma & Grandpa Blomquist have arrived and are staying with us for two weeks. It’s great to see them. As well as Grandpa’s Sister Margaret. Her, her husband Phil, their daughter Kathy & her son Brian are all here to visit from Arizona/California! We had a family get together on Saturday and it was great to hang out and talk face to face vs. via email:) They’ve been taking the big tour of Isanti County. Kathy hadn’t been back in quite some time (she’s currently lives in CA) and Brian’s never been here…I said “only if it were winter, you could walk on water”. Can’t do that in CA!! Gotta love MN’s Ice fishing!

Although MN is wonderful, this winter is already scaring the heck out of Kip and I…that cold is no fun for an already shaking body:) Last year he strictly wore flannel pants, insulated socks and warm hoodies. I wonder if we can get a heater built in on his wheel chair:) Knowing him, it’s already included and I just haven’t heard about it yet!!! Enough about that though…we are sucking up all of summer we possibly can!!

Many ask if Kip is walking….he is, but is starting to use his scooter more. He just brought it home from work and loves it…so do the kids when he’s not on it:) We had gone to the Isanti County fair and Kip said “it was the best fair he’s ever been too!!!” Well, of course it was….he got to ride and we walked all day!!! Silly! He just wanted to cruise! Did any of you see us in the Cambridge Star…we were in it!! It was great to take Maddie on her 1st rides…she loved it! Jordan didn’t want to leave her side at all! Never does…they love each other dearly! I have to tell Jordan to leave the room when I’m feeding her b/c she cranks her head all the way around just to find him if she remotely hears his voice.

Being Kip has been using his scooter more, it seems like the falls have slowed down a bit….so that’s a great thing! His falls have included Breana’s wicker basket (last blog), the computer, the elliptical, Maddie’s bouncy, the hot tub steps…and the list goes on, but truly all of them have been very “nice” falls…no broken bones (a few cracked ribs) or blood. His newest one was at work…he hit his head on the concrete and blacked out for a short time, but there were many to helpers. His head hurt for a few days, but that’s all in the past now! Not to bring anyone down, but I want to keep you as updated as possible. Again…good and bad days:)

I think I mentioned the recent one at home…when he went to get water from the Culligan thingy and he fell so low…his head went into the sheetrock…almost to the floor. It was crazy! Tootie (Kip’s sister) was teasing him saying “since you were down there, you should’ve had a scrub brush”. I had to mention that one again because it was so darn cute! I thought about getting him a fanny pack after that and putting in a couple toothbrushes and so forth!! He didn’t like that idea so much! I just worry that if he does fall and CAN’T get up…that would at least give him something to do until I or someone gets there:) Just kidding…you got to put humor in it, right?!

Did I ever mention Kip got a tattoo on the back of his neck (as well as Breana) that say’s “Never Give Up”….it’s great! There are many of us that are thinking we just may have to do the same! My dad actually got a full blown picture of Kip over his heart and “Never Give Up” wrote around it…My dad says “He’ll always be close to my heart”. It’s incredible! Kip sure is loved!

Our sleep number bed is in!! It’s more than amazing to be able to sleep next to “twitches” again! That couch was getting old! He just loves it too! He doesn’t complain about a back ache, his ribs haven’t bothered him and his ankles aren’t nearly as swollen as they were. He’s had some other issues that have made him stick to bed this week, so we’re lucky it’s comfortable. He had the poops!! He didn’t want to eat anything, drink anything…nothing! My mom finally said “I’m not eating until you do…”, so we grilled up some food and he ate three cheeseburgers. I don’t think he cared at the time and I’m happy to say he’s felling much better! Thank goodness! It was a VERY icky week. Things are looking up and both him and my mom got to eat!

Here we come Apple River! We are very excited to conquer another eventful weekend with such special people (The Vlecks)! I’ll tell you all about it upon our return!

Last, but MOST IMPORTANTLY…we are doing the ALS Walk! 2008 St. Cloud Walk to Defeat ALS! It’s September 13th @ 9 am. If you’d like to join us, we’d love it! Let us know!
Our goal for “Team Blomquist” is $10,000 and we’re going to crush that!! Just typing that brings tears to my eyes…:)
If you’d like to make a donation, please let us know. Your donation would not only enable us to reach our goal, but also help in the research to get ride of this ICKY disease….Let’s help in that fight! Someday, there has to be a cure…let’s find it!!!
You can send donations to us @
1205 County Road 6 NE
Stanchfield, MN. 55080
Payable to: ALS Association
***The kids each set their goal to $210 as well! They’re very excited!
I think that’s all for now! I should call him and make sure he’s staying out of trouble! He’s probably at home watching CSI!!! Before all this, I could never EVER get him to sit down and watch t.v. and now he loves it. He never thought he would feel that way, but he enjoys it now. I tell him he just likes to boss people around and make us do all his outside work while he sits and watches and as much as I know that’s not the case, it’s fun to give him heck…VERY FUN! Although…he does tear up a lot more…I find myself giving him heck and either he laughs hysterically or that big bottom lip appears…I just have to say “Don’t cry”…sometimes he stops and sometimes he doesn’t…he just really emotional. It’s a day by day thing:)

Good-bye for now! “Never Give Up”

Love to all, Shannon

It’s me again…:)

We’re actually on our way to Blackduck as I type this. It’s almost time for bear hunting…which usually is a very exciting time for us, but today is a tough one…it’s one year exactly (Aug 15th, 2007) since Kip had his 1st symptom. Him and Jordan came up here and when Kip got out of the Suburban his legs locked up. As sad as it is, we talked about celebrating this weekend and thinking of the positive…not the negative. He’s here with us now…and there’s nothing that can replace that. He plans on trying to hunt, but his fingers are very turned in and his hands are very weak…I’ll let you know when to GET OUT OF THE WOODS:) J/K! He’ll do great! He also just had his quarterly appointment at HCMC on Thursday. We knew he was obviously getting weaker, but it really stinks to be “reassured” of it. We again met with about 8 specialists (they all come in one after another and specialize in a certain area). We love going there and meeting with “the gang” because they always make us feel so special and try to help make life easier. This time was extra special because the boys came with us for the 1st time (no school). I guess I was kind of scared (if that’s the word…) because we talk about some serious stuff and as much as I know they need to hear the stuff 1st hand and learn as much about it as possible…I find myself trying to protect them from hearing bad things. Breana’s older and more emotional (aka “a girl”) so she’s easier to talk to about things, but Mitch is pretty quiet about a lot…he’s not one for sitting down and fully talking about it…as much as we try. He’s pretty vague. All the conversations this time were pretty standard and expected, but we had a new subject come up….a feeding tube. As my eyes started to swell, I tried not to make eye contact with the boys and just tried to hold back the tears. It was tough. I left feeling confused. I just didn’t and don’t fully understand the stages and how fast they come. I had called a very dear person at the clinic the next day and I explained how all of our friends & family are going to ask me how it went and I really don’t know how to explain…I mean, should I be reporting on what we have on order from the “loan closet”…such as a toilet raiser, a pivot, a lift…I guess if I had asked someone how it went, I would want more specifics…especially since we’re already talking feeding tubes. She explained his breathing percentages and so forth, but I still felt “unclear”…so as stupid as I sounded, by the time our phone call ended I felt more “clear” and that’s what I want to share. She first went into his breathing levels or percentages. Two appt’s ago, Kip was 108, then our last quarterly appt was 98 and then this time it was 92. She explained that they really like to get the feeding tube in before it falls below 50. When 50 comes around there’s more room for problems…such as an infection or ammonia and they could possibly do more harm than help. They really like to have it in sooner than later, whether the patient uses it right away or not (some use it to take just their pills, but still eat food regularly). They really focused on his weight. He lost 3 pounds (seriously…I can lose three in one trip to the toilet!!!). But I guess if you start to lose weight they worry b/c they feel once you start to lose weight, you may go down hill faster. I mentioned that last time he had jeans and a hoodie on vs. this time soft shorts and a t-shirt (which is his normal attire these days…for ease of bathroom breaks and comfort). Jeans are very difficult…pretty much impossible for him nowadays. I still dig them out every once in a while and make a promise to him that I won’t take my eyes off him all night so when he does have to go to the bathroom…it’s not a problem. I still feel it’s necessary to shower him, do his spiky hair, colone…etc. everyday (he’s unable to that stuff anymore by himself). Kip…if you’re reading this…you’re not getting out of it that easy:)!! Anyways, with the discussion of the feeding tube, Kip feels very strongly that he is passing on that jazz. He just doesn’t want it, but things may change as they approach. We’ll see.

On a positively-great note, we made it down the Apple River with our other ALS family! The Vlecks! It was so great to get to know them and see how great they all have handled such an icky disease. John Vleck was diagnosed Jan-07 and has an amazing support group just as we do! He also has an amazing wife that gave me a brighter outlook…Steph is amazing too!! Before we actually went down the river, a few of us had gone down to the end (rapids) to make sure it didn’t look too dangerous for the guys. We were both very iffy, but it’s their annual outing amongst their friends and it was almost a must he went thru them again…of course, with a life jacket this time:) Kip refused to wear one. I’m happy to report the guys made it! One of the guys lost his tube down the river, so he somehow managed to go down the rapids on his back…ouch! Poor guy…can you say liquid courage. We were all a little too tipsy and found it more amusing than hurtful…sorry Paul!! It was such a great experience and we are so thankful to have met so many WONDERFUL people. As unlucky as we are, we are very lucky too! There’s so much more I could report, but I suppose I should keep this email PG13:) I also have to send a BIG BIG hug to Rian & Kane…they made it very special too…as always! We love you guys more than words can say. Rian’s always there to pick me up when I’m down! There’s been more than once that I really didn’t know where I was going to dig up the strength to come home and make dinner… etc. and she’s been there doing so much…not only that, but she’s an amazing listener! Thank you, Rian.

Another positive note…we are participating in the “Walk to defeat ALS” on September 13th in St. Cloud…as I mentioned in the last blog. Everyone and anyone are welcome to join us…it’s going to be day full of laughter and tears…we would love to have EVERYONE with us on that special day! If interested, contact myself or Rian at 763-286-1519. It’s starts at 10am and we walk only 1.5 miles. Wheelchairs and strollers are welcomed…so it’s no race…a nice little walk with a bunch of loved ones!

A couple other notes/funnies: Took the boys school clothes shopping at Rosedale yesterday and Kip sat in the truck for 3 hours…I know…it sounds very mean, but we want him to be part of everything…just kidding:) We are just so busy and it just worked out best to stop then. The boys and I felt so bad, but it was pretty cute too. Next, I’m very happy to report it’s been about 3 weeks since Kip’s last fall…he really, really has to think about his steps, so I tease him and just tell him it proves he’s still thinking! So cruel! It’s the humor that keeps us all going. Next, he drove the whole way to blackduck and I had a pile of mail to put in the mail box and I told him if it falls off the dash he can no longer drive (kind of like the movies)…well, we had just pulled in the driveway and they fell. He was not very happy b/c he’s been trying the whole way to keep them there…I suppose we can give him the benefit of the doubt today:)

On a bit of a sad note…Kip was looking very forward to getting in one last hunt this year and it doesn’t look like it’s going to happen. Galin, Danny and him tried to make it work this weekend, but those fingers of his are pretty curled up and his just doesn’t have the strength to hold the end of the rifle. I just put a call in to the ALS clinic to see if there’s any hunting device that can still make this happen (he’s pretty devestated…those are his words)…I hope to hear back soon. He knew he wasn’t going to get a deer season in this year, but he was hopeful for bear. We’ll see. Also, being his arms & hands are getting weaker…I had to take over on the Rhino…I couldn’t say “watch out for that tree” any faster and he agreed:) It may have just been a bad day (he actually blames in on the power steering going out on the Rhino!!!!…go figure)…so we’re not totally giving up on that yet either. The toughest thing about this is his mind tells him he can do it, but his body is just a stickler.

Overall, things are truly good. I know alot of the above sounds icky, but he’s one fine guy with high spirits and I’m very proud to be his wife! We are all learning so much…not that we wanted too, but God has a funny way of working sometimes!! Maybe he’ll come thru with a Cure:) Let’s hope!! Again, please join us on Sept 13th…most of the proceeds go to the patients now (and I can’t tell you enough how much they’ve helped us and the stuff that we’ve gotten from the loan closet is great!) and then some goes to research to defeat ALS! Let’s fight together…whether its raising money or just being together…Kip will love a party until the day he leaves us…if he does!!

Stop in and see us!! Love to all! Never Give Up!

Love, Shannon (the rambler!!…sorry they get to be so long!!)

Thanks for the update. We think about all of you often and love to hear the scoop. (Even the “hard to hear” things.) Of course the positives are wonderful to hear!!! I am glad you keep the humor alive! Like always, never give up and stay strong. You guys are amazing…you are very loved! See you soon!

Amy, Brad, Jeg and Kendall

I cannot believe how freaking amazing your family is! I am sure you hear this alot, but I just want to make sure you know. I love your “Never Give Up” and positive attitude even when its the pits you all stick together and hold on and get through it and then if that isn’t enough you share your experiences good or bad with everyone. Thank you for updating us, we definetly want to know either good or bad. I am glad you had a wonderful trip to Apple River. I was wondering how that went. You deserve it!

Look at that! I finally got in! Great job on the updates, Shan. I feel like I’ve been out of the loop. Wanted to tell you guys I love ya and I wanted to put in a blurp about The Walk to Defeat ALS taking place on Saturday, September 13th, 9:00am in Whitney Park, St. Cloud. Please, anyone interested in walking with us or donating let one us know as soon as possible. It’s fast approaching and I’d like to get everything squared away sooner rather than later! It will be a fun day for a tremedously great cause! Peace, Rian

Hi Guys,

Just wanted you to know that your in my thoughts and prayers.

Tiff

Hello, hello it’s me, mom-Sue. I just wanted to stop by and tell you guys how much I love you and how proud I am of you all. Kip I have been checking in to stem cell research and I really believe this could be the cure to this ICKY ALS. We really just need to by some time. “Never give up and keep having faith.” One other thing I think we need to try is a faith healer, Sometimes God uses people to show us all how real he is, even when there seems like there is no hope. Tiffany got an e-mail from a girl she had’nt talked to since fifth grade, it stated “my mom HAD ALS and we took her to a faith healer in Texas, she had a feeding tube and was in a wheel chair, after going to see him, the next day she woke her daughter, Kelly up and was eating potato chips. Tiffany has e-mailed this man and were waiting to hear from him. Keep up your possitve additude!! Just remember you are my favorite son-in-law and I LOVE YOU SO MUCH! Shan since the day you were born I knew you were special and had much to offer the world, I LOVE YOU SO MUCH, keep up that possitive attuitude!!!!! Love Mom

Hello Blomquists!

I hope you are all doing well. I love the updates, Shannon, thank you for keeping us all in the light. I assume typing is not one of Kip’s achievements these days, but would love to see a blog from him transcribed by his lovely wife!

Stem cell research! I’ve been praying for a democrat to take office for the last 8 years because of stem cell research! Some day…it will be the answer to everyone’s problems, including my boys. Until then, everyone, keep this research in your prayers. I truly believe it’s the tool God will bless us all with to cure the horrible ailments so many people endure daily.

bless you guys! I miss and love you! ~Kerri

This is to Kerri. Kerri THANK YOU so much for coming to the benefit and helping. Also THANK YOU for setting up this Web Site. You are a very SPECIAL person. You have your hands full and still found the time to help us out, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU. Kerri if there is any thing I can do to help you, let me know. Your boys are in my prays and always will be. If you know of anything I can do to push stem cell research, let me know. Please use me to do any work that needs to be done to help cure your boys and Kip. I also believe you have alot to offer the world. Sorry it took me so long to THANK YOU, but again THANK YOU. Sometimes when were in our own grief, we forget about others that are hurting, please know your boys are in my thoughts and prays. Kerri, keep on keeping on and NEVER GIVE UP! Shannons’ mom Sue

Kip and Shannon, just wanted to thank you for the wedding gift. We love the pictures. Thank you for everything. Shannon your great, if you guy’s need anything please call. If we can, we’ll help.

Take care Denny and Jenny, Austin, Riley, Kenzie

HEY YOU GUYS!!! WHAT’s UP!? Miss YOU ALL! Love You! Just wanted to say that! Have a Wonderful day!
P.s. Can’t wait for Sep.13th for the ALS walk!

So glad I swung in the other night!!! Love and miss you all very, very much!!!!!!!!!

Hey Kip-

Ken is on his way to bed, and our computer is in our bedroom. (he gets up at 3:00 a.m. for work.) So I’ll make it short and sweet. I’ve been thinking about you and your family a lot lately. We admire the way you milk the most joy out of every day and every event. I’m sure you have frustrating days. But please remember there are lots of us out here still praying for you, your healing and an ALS miracle.

Love ya, bud! Sandy

Hi Kip just wanted to say “I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!” and I’m so happy you get to go hunting. Have a great time and be good! “NEVER GIVE UP”

So I hear you are going hunting. I am so happy for you! Hope you get lots of which ever animal it is you are hunting this time of year and that it is HUGE! Have a good time and hope to see you the day of the walk.

hay kip joey here i mised you guys for the last 8 mo but iam back for now i cannt wait to see you guys see u sunday for sammys party at kanes

hello kip I havent been online for awhile I heard you went baiting for bear. good for you. I hope you ae feeling ok debbie tells me we should be seeing you soon. keep your sperits high.

brad

Hello all,

We are very excited for the Walk coming up! We hope as many friends & family can join us. It will be very memorable. Below is a message from Rian (team captain!!)…I thought I’d pass it on. She has worked hard throwing this together and I just want to make sure she knows how much we appreciate her! Love you Rian!!!

Kip is looking forward to seeing everyone (more than you know!)…dust off those walking shoes and share the joy with us!

Love to all! “Never Give Up”

Shannon

A message from Rian Schermerhorn scottie.rian@att.net.

Good afternoon, Team Blomquist!

As Walk day nears there are a few things that I wanted to go over with all of you. As you know, the Walk registration begins at 9am and the Walk will commence at 10am. For those of you interested in ride-sharing we will be meeting at my house (north of Hwy 95 in between Cambridge & Princeton) at 8am. We will be leaving my house NO LATER than 8:15am. Please let me know if I should be expecting you Saturday morning.

For those of you not meeting at my house, the directions are as follows:

Location: Whitney Park - St. Cloud, MN - Walkers will gather at the shelter by the baseball
diamonds.

From Highway 94, exit at Highway 15 and head North toward St. Cloud. Go to 12th St. North and turn right. Pass the North junior High School and 12th will curve around and become Northway Drive. Go about 4-5 blocks and Whitney Park will be on your left side. Enter the Park and drive around to your left until you see the concession stand.

From Hwy 95, turn left onto MN 23 heading toward St. Cloud. Go to Cty Rd 1 and turn right. Go to 10th St NE/Cty Rd 46 and turn left. 10th St NE/Cty Rd 46 becomes 5th St S. Go to S Benton Dr and turn right. Go to 1st St S/Cty Rd 33 S. and turn left. 1st St S./Cty Rd 33 S. becomes 9th Ave N. Go to Northway Dr. and turn right.

Tomorrow (Thurs. Sept 4th) is the deadline for me to order the white forkip.com t-shirts that I would like all walkers to wear for the walk. Please let me know whether or not you will be needing a t-shirt and also what size. We WILL be able to order toddler sizes 1-4, so don’t forget about the little ones (yeah!). Anyone over the age of 4 should order an Adult Small. I will not know the exact price per shirt until I submit the order. It will take most of next week for the printing to be completed, so for most of you I will not be able to get you your t-shirt until my house the morning of the Walk or at registration. It is at this time that I will collect the money for them.

Please bring all of your cash/check donations with you the day of the Walk. The more donations we have submitted on-line beforehand the better, so that we can see our progress. I will collect everyone’s envelopes during registration and hand them in. The ALS Association has sent me out envelopes to help keep everything straight. If you don’t already have one, let me know and I will forward one to you. You need only one envelope per family. Make sure to get every donor’s name and address so that they will receive their Thank you letter/receipt for tax purposes from the ALS Association.

Lastly, for those of you interested, we will be heading East out of St. Cloud on Hwy 23 after the Walk and stopping in at Dusty’s for some food, drinks and good company. Children are welcome, however, they do not have high chairs. Please let me know whether you will be able to join us as I will need to call Dusty’s a couple of days prior with a tentative number.

Please call/e-mail me should you have any questions.

Let’s see that thermometer start rising, people!!!

As always, with love,
Rian
763-286-1519
Scottie.rian@att.net

Click here to visit my personal page.
If the text above does not appear as a clickable link, you can visit the web address:
http://web.alsa.org/site/TR/Walks/MinnesotaWalk?px=1938018&pg=personal&fr_id=4101&et=iI2RLVcMkyPYRCGXwlzEBA..&s_tafId=52564

Click here to view the team page for Team Blomquist
If the text above does not appear as a clickable link, you can visit the web address:
http://web.alsa.org/site/TR/Walks/MinnesotaWalk?team_id=85882&pg=team&fr_id=4101&et=DU1-dSEWEBfBb3-JQQ1Jgg..&s_tafId=52564

Hello my favorite son-in-law. I just was wondering what’s up with the stripper pole. Is it for you or Shan, LOL. Does this have to do with your STRONG tongue, LOL. I LOVE YOU SO MUCH, NEVER GIVE UP. You are my HERO.

Just a little note on stem cell research. Please know that when your voting this November, Sara is against stem cell research. We really need to get this passed!!!!!!!!!

HEY CHRISS THOUGHT WOULD SAY HI. NEVER GIVE UP. THINKING ABOUT HOW YOU ARE DOING AND REMBERED YOU TOLD ME ABOUT THIS WEB PAGE IT IS NICE

Hello there!

Wow…what an amazing turn out we had at the walk…74 people and a dog that even had a forkip.com t-shirt on! It was incredible! We even went above and beyond our $10k goal (not sure the final tally yet…I’ll keep you posted). Good Job Team Blomquist!! It’s ridiculous to think that mile and ½ was a breeze for Kip not too long ago and as hard as it may be nowadays for him (on foot that is…he kicked our butts on scooter:), he still has a tremendous attitude that keeps all of thankful for what we have around us. Thank you Kippy for being such an amazing inspiration!

Kip was quite emotional on the way there. I drove the Suburban and there was one time I looked in the review mirror and saw a stream of people following…I said “look babe”…and he couldn’t help but shed some tears…he was/is just SO overwhelmed with joy. I can’t thank everyone in our lives enough for being there for us when we need you most! Thank you…more than words can say. This tough time wouldn’t be easy if it weren’t for all the love and support we have.

The party didn’t stop at the track:) We carried on at our house and we were just amazed by the people that had come to hang out with us after the walk. I hope everyone who came had a great time! Kip and I couldn’t stop talking about it yesterday! It was a blast!

I have to send out another big thank you to my company, NRG. There was a team of 6 of us that walked and NRG donated $2k plus matched anything we as employees donated. That really helped us achieve our goal. Thank you NRG and all my co-workers/friends that walked (Tom Claussen, Mari Beth Ross, Sue Sandbulte, Eric Toth, Ruth Bryan). You can only imagine their drive if you know how far I drive back and forth everyday:).

I’m wrapping this one up early being so many people seen him this last weekend and will see him again this Friday for my 30th b-day party…if you’re in the neck of the woods…stop in! I promise…you won’t be disappointed:)

Good-bye for now and Thank You! “Never Give Up”

Keep the posts coming! Kip loves to see who’s thinking about him:) With his “new” 9 to 5 job, he looks forward to this website! It keeps him out of trouble!!

Love, Shannon

Just want to stop by and say this weekend was a complete BLAST!!! The turn out was amazing!! Except for my blow out on the way, I had a great time!! Love you all and can not wait for Friday Night!!!

Kip I just wanted to tell you thank you so much for letting me steal Shannon for the night last night. It obviously didn’t end up as we planned, but I’m glad her and I had some time together. It had been way too long. I hope she is having a wonderful 30th birthday today with her wonderful husband!

Happy Thursday!
Just wanted to post alittle “Hello”! I think about you guys every day. Wish I could only work part time as then I could help out more. Today is the 3rd day of Fall. I absolutely Love this time of year. Nick and I took a walk down the field to check out the deer trails and such the other evening. The smell and feel of this weather is absolutely fabulous. It will soon be pumpkin carving time! I canned some tomatoes last weekend, so we can have some fresh vegies in our chili this year. Rick always likes to make the chili, which I love to see him be so creative. Last year, he had just bought the “Rockstar” c.d., and cranked it up in the house while he was cooking. It is a great memory that makes me smile. Better get back to work, sending the Blomquist’s my love and happy thoughts! Love to you all, Your friend,
Dana

Things are going goood at the Blomquist’s!

I successfully made it to 30! Thank to all who came and celebrated with us…it was amazing. Friends and Family are truly what makes everything we’re going thru so much easier. Thank you, thank you…more than you know! It was so great to see eveyrone. The night was very eventful:)In the midst of the celebrations, Kip decided to take that scooter of his and head on back behind the pole barn to use the rest room (He said “someone was in his normal spot”, so he switched it up a little:) While trying to stand, he began to feel like he was falling and he fell towards this trailer that was quite tippy and it didn’t hold his weight. Before he could even blink, he was kissing a brick…litterally. He has a pretty good wound that needed 22+ stitches from his nose down to his chin…one straight line. Poor guy! As awful as it sounds and as bad as it looks, he’s still cute as ever! But by golly…it was one for the records! As much as he loves kisses, he’s getting them on the cheek this week:) Grandma Nancy (Kip’s mom) said that he’s not allowed to go to the bathroom alone no more and he agreed! With that said, he’s mostly in his scooter (that of course will soon need bigger tires!), but he is still making the hike up the stairs to our bedroom…slowly, but surely! We will soon be moving our bed to the main level. Although he can still walk, it gets a bit scary…especially after those bruski’s that he will never give up:) I hear all to often…”If I have a couple, my showers are easier”…what a crock! Nice try hun! He is very dependent in regards to showering and so forth…I whip him into shape every night. Also, I’ve learned how to shave him, but boy is he picky. It can be midnight and he’s telling me I missed a spot…that doesn’t go over so well:) I’ve only cut him a few times:)!! Just yesterday, he got this really cool gadget that allows him to use a magnet to control his computer…he puts a little circle sticky on his head and he can type and everything with that. This is a good thing because he loves emails, but his fingers are quite curled up so typing is becoming bothersome. He recently got some braces that he wears at night to help keep his fingers straight…I’m not so sure if they’ve helped, but we try to keep an open mind. Also, I’m not sure if many are aware, but we have fought long in hard in regards to trying to obtain his records from the VA (they pretty much cannot prove that he stepped foot in the Gulf War and…it goes on and on) and on the 23rd, the government announced that all VA vets that have been diagnosed with ALS are eligible for benefits. I can’t imagine how many people have struggled with this and it was awarded during our fight. It’s just amazing. My grandma just said “God may not always give you what you want, but he gives you what you need”…that hit home. It doesn’t make things perfect, but easier. For some reason, Kip was chosen. When I figure it out…everyone will be the 1st to know:) Seriously, we’re thankful for everyday. Well, I just wanted to give a little update not only to thank everyone for coming on Friday and explaining Kip’s wound, but also to say Happy Friday. p.s. we just started this “Share the Care” program and it’s not fully ironed out, but we have a good start. We’ve had friends bring us dinner and just to stop in and see Kip (during lunch is amazing…then I don’t worry so much:). It’s been wonderful. So many thanks to so many people for so many different things. Also, I was just on Kere 11 website and there’s this amazing family that is not only dealing with ALS, but Papa bear also has cancer. They have two kids…Keep them in your prayers. Feel free to visit their website… http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/houstons. On a good note, we have some very busy weekends ahead of us…1st weekend in Oct, a bunch of us are heading to Finland, MN. to do some riding. Kip is very excited. Also, the 2nd weekend in Oct, we are taking the boys to Washington to see where Mitch was born and so dad can show him the ropes:)The memories will be more than incredible! A couple of p.s’…1)Rian’s grandpa just passes yesterday…please keep the Hoeschen’s in your prayers! 2)I just want to give an extra special thanks to a very special friend/co-worker for the extra special things she’s done for us-Thank you Mari Beth! 3)Dave (my dad’s best friend and my good friend Amy’s dad)…he’s been having some struggles, so please say an extra prayer for him too. Lots of love to all! “Never Give Up”. Love, Shannon

Hey Kip! I am SUPER Stoked for next weekend to Finland! We are gonna have a flippin Blast! I hope You, Dad and Wayne shoot some deer up North!
I Love You!
Love, Billie

It’s been one year since we were sitting in that icky room and got the news. It’s going to be a tough day, but I am so thankful we have had him this year…he’s a blessing. Mitch and I were talking last night and it’s just crazy to think this is happening…I think we find ourselves asking “why?” a lot more lately, but I always tell Breana…for some reason this is happening…we don’t know why and we’ll probably never know why, but we are so lucky to have gotten to love and be loved by this amazing person! Kip, thank you for everything you are to us! We love you!

On a good note, there are about 20 of us that are heading up to Finland, MN. for what Kip says is his last 4-wheeling trip. Yeah right!! We’re staying at a Moose registration, so we’re all very excited to not only 4-wheel, see the amazing colors, spend great time with family and friends, but to also see what kind of trophy’s come in:) Then, the following weekend we are heading to Seattle, WA. Mitch was born there and he got confirmed a couple Sunday’s ago (we’re so proud of you bud!) and that was our present to him. We’re just taking the boys…the girls are staying home. It will be good memories!

Lots of love to all! Love, Shannon

“Never Give Up”

Love to the Blomquist’s.

HI Kip-

Glad to hear you are going up north for some fun this weekend. Take care and hope to see you guys again soon! Love, Kelly

PS- I had a major blast at the walk and so did Duane- tons of fun at your house too!

Just wanted to thank you guys for including us on the four-wheeling trip! It was a Blast! Love to all!

Just wanted to stop by and show some love!!! We think of you often and are keeping you in our prayers daily. Can’t tell you enough how much we love you and your family. See ya soon.
Brad, Amy and Keegan Godfrey

Hey kip, just wanted to send a hello to ya and let you know that you and your family continue to be in my prayers. sounds like you got to go up north and enjoy the outdoors, I bet it was awesome. Take care and god bless!! Jeff Gomall

Hey chris,
I hope things are going good for you… i miss comming over all the time I hope to see you soon! =)
love ya

Hello Everyone,

I just wanted to let everyone know that Kip shot a deer last night with his cross bow. My Dad & him sat in the ground blind (pulled his scooter right in there) and they weren’t even out for an hour. My parents, Rick A, Brian G & Jay L were all there to help us celebrate! Kip was ecstatic! He’s still got the touch:)

Good job honey!!!

It’s only mid October and it’s already been one that’s unforgettable:)

The 1st weekend in Oct, we made our way to Wildhurst in Finland, MN. where we put on 50 + miles on the ATV’s. It was the Blomquist’s, the Schermerhorn’s, the Anderson’s, the Peterson’s & the Johnston’s that all made memories! We all rented cabins and had a blast. The colors were amazing! We saw many Moose (Wildhurst is a moose registry)…and the kids were thrilled! Kip just sat in the passenger seat and sucked up the scenery! As much as I enjoyed driving the Rhino…I almost booted him out a few times…he doesn’t have the back seat driver thing down quite yet and he wasn’t afraid to express it:) He really misses driving, but I don’t think he minded me escorting him TOO much!

This last weekend, we made our way to Whidbey Island/Seattle (Kip, Mitch, Jordan & I)! I mentioned before that Mitch was born there and Kip wanted to take him there before he couldn’t. We got there Friday morning and toured Whidbey…couldn’t get on the base though. They blocked it off since 9/11, but we still did a lot of sight seeing. Then Saturday, we hopped on the ferry and went to the space needle, did some shopping (Mitch had to hit every sports spot there was…we went to Qwest & Safeco fields) and then met up with Kip’s buddy from the Navy and his family…Ted, Shalena, Fin & Jack. We had dinner, went swimming and hung out. It was great to see those two together and talk about all the great times they had! We did a lot more, but most of all we made more great memories that the boys will cherish forever! The flight went good…we were the last ones on the plane and the last ones off the plane, but it was good. The poor ladies that sat in the window seat were very patient and held their bladder the whole ride Seriously, it couldn’t of went any better. The ALS loan closet got us a manual wheelchair right before we left and Mitch did the pushing, while Jordan and I pulled two suitcases each! They were both so cute!

This coming weekend, Kip is in Kelly (step-brother) & Lesley’s wedding and he is going to look as cute as ever in that tux! I am very excited to see him coming down the isle again And we are very excited for Kelly & Lesley!!

We have our annual Halloween party on Saturday, Oct. 25th @ 2pm…if interested, bring the kids and something to share…pumpkin carving, hay ride and campfire!! It’s going to be a blast! I don’t have everyone’s address…but the more the merrier…as always!

Love to all! Shannon

“Never Give Up”

***Congratulations to my little deer hunter!

Congratulations on shooting a deer. It sounds like you have been keeping buzy! You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Wow! what a night, last night to see Kips’ BIG SMILE as he said “I got one” I have come to realize nothing is going to stop him from doing what he enjoys. My new saying is Kip is living with ALS not dying from ALS. His positive attiude is amazing!!! Shan grab on to the good days and hold them tight. You two togather is so AMAZING! I LOVE YOU GUYS SO MUCH! NEVER GIVE UP, love mom (Sue)

YAY KIP! Good job on the deer! I loved the pics! It looks good size! You got it and you are all that plus a bag of chips!!! Glad you had a fun time up north too. I have to tell you I was wearing my forkip.com shirt from the walk and I got a phone call I was not expecting…it was good news, I got a promotion and a new position at work and I say it is my lucky shirt now!!!!!! Talk to you later Kip and Shannon! Love Krazy Kelly

heyy shannon & Kip. I just finally made an e-mail and now i can leave comments, yea i know i’m a little slow. I missed you guys this weekend and i hoped you had fun. Congrats on the deer, when i called kip sounded so happy..!!! it was awsome to hear him pumped up:)

I love you guys so much and always will..!!!!!

&&babe, cant wait til you spend the night again:)

CoNgRaTuLaTiOnS!!!!!!!!!!
I am So Happy fo You! I saw the pics and they are So Cute! Love Your Big Smile!
Can’t wait to see ya soon!
Love ya, Billie

Just wanted to drop a note and say, how awesome you looked at the wedding!!! I am really looking forward to punkin carving!!! Love you all!!!!

Love, Tootie

Can’t wait until Saturday!! Love you guys!
Rian

Hola!

It’s been a little while since our last rendezvous so I wanted to pop in and say, well, Hola!
I hope everythings been going well lately. I’ve been neck deep in the new full time school routine and Toni is having fun with her new job. She and a friend had some badass seats on the floor of the T-Wolves game last night. Me, well…homework again. (There is something sadistic about the architecture program where they believe it is a good thing to have it completely consume all of ones time!) It’s been tough to get used to…but it’s going well enough.

It would be fun to hang out again…what say you about getting everyone rounded up for an evening of laughter and libations?

More later…back to homework

Love
Jamie & Toni

Hello everyone!

First off…Happy Friday! As we speak, there are people at our house for what they call “The Blomquist’s clean up day”…isn’t that incredible?! Rian told me I could not be home though…funny! She’s always looking for me:) We are so blessed in that respect. With the Halloween party tomorrow, they are helping us get ready for that and to just winterize the house (put hoses away, leaves…etc.). Stuff that Kip does, that he’s unable to do any longer. I’m sure Kip’s in heaven. I just called home and my mom mentioned that my dad just got Kip dressed and ready for the day! I’m glad he got to sleep in a little. I usually wake him up and make sure he’s in his chair before I leave for work. Speaking of chair…he got HIS chair this week. It came Tuesday and he thinks it’s very neat and boy, is it nice! Maddie is pretty fond of it too…he’s taken her for a ride the last two nights. Although last night, she got a hold of the joy sick and they drove into the wall. Kip couldn’t stop laughing (as most of you know…he laughs a lot harder these days), so I had to take control before they were both laying on the ground. It was pretty humorous! Last week, Kip had taken a fall in the bathroom and I couldn’t get him up for quite some time, so I told him he can’t use his walker anymore…he agreed. If he continues, his legs will just give out and we would hate for that to happen…he’s got a long way to fall. So needless to say, he’s got a new ride. He took me for a ride to the mailbox last night:) It’s fun! Also, last weekend, Kip was in Kelly (step-brother) and Lesley’s wedding and boy, did he look good! We had the manual wheelchair from the previous weekend (Seattle), so Naomi just pushed him down in that…it was cute! He was very, very happy to be part of their big day! The whole thing was great! Lots of great family & friends and I now have a sister in law! Yeah! Congratulations, Graham’s! On a whole different note, I went to my 1st ALS support Group meeting and it was such a good experience. There were people there that have been diagnosed for 12+ years to as new as 3 weeks. All the patients and caregivers meet at first and then the caregivers break out and talk…it was very nice and I plan on going monthly. I wish the kids could go to something like that…I’m trying to figure that out now…everyone needs a little support:) On a positive note, again, tomorrow is the annual Halloween party, so if you’re in our neck of the woods…please stop in.

I better sign off! Love to all! Shannon

“Never Give Up”

Kip and Shannon-
Thanks for a great time on Saturday! Our kids were so glad to finally meet your’s. You sure do have a great group of family and friends. We are working on finding a time to get you to our neck of the woods, too!

Hi Blomquists,

Saw you got another one Kip! Awesome! I think Maddie had a birthday and just wanted to say Happy Belated Birthday to her. Hope you are all well. Wish we could have made the Halloween deal- but we had to go to Hinckley. Take care and hope to see you soon! Love Krazy Kelly

Hey guys I just wanted to let you know that we all had a blast at the Halloween party. Wished I would of came earlier though. I was so excited for Kip when he got both his deer that I call Calvin right away and told him. Hopefully after the holidays we could do a family dinner again at our house or yours, which ever works the best. I will make scalloped carrots just for you Shannon. If I can do anything to help out please let me know.

SORRY i didn’t make it to the tupperware party! How long will you have it opened til? Maybe I could look at a book.
Well its time to get the kids to bed so we’ll talk soon.
Love ya all

Extra special thoughts and prayers from me to you, Shannon and the kids today. Love you! Rian

Hello all,

We had Kip’s quarterly check-up yesterday and it went as well as expected. We didn’t learn too much, but it’s always nice to see the girls at the clinic. They’re all so great. We got some helpful devices to make everyday life easier, they evaluated his meds (he’s been getting leg cramps, so they wanted to see what could help), they asked about his diet which he still loves to eat but now he needs someone to give him that good food…he’s arms aren’t flexible or strong enough (he still weighed 205.5…last time was 208…they don’t want your weight to fall), they had him do speech exercises (if I had to say…that’s the part that got worse from this check-up to last…he speaks very slowly and as if he had too many beers!!). He also had his breathing test done (not sure the professional name for it)…and it came back at 81. He was 98 last check-up. This is just something the doctors like to keep their eye on for feeding tube purposes. From my understanding, once you fall below 70 it gets more complicated to put one in. Kip has pretty much refused the whole feeding tube thing, but I on the other hand would love for him to get it. I always try to tell the doctors to put in a good word when it comes to that:) We’re still working on him! We DID get him to get a flu shot yesterday which was pretty incredible…I’ve tried for years. He’s always refused. He had blood drawn out of one arm and the vaccination going in the other…I told him he got tagged teamed! He was a trooper. The clinic was filled yesterday with familiar faces from my support group and the ALS Seminar that Rian and I recently attended. The ALS world is so small, that it’s like going to Cambridge Wal-mart and knowing every one:) We will be going back Feb 5th. Speaking of the ALS Seminar we attended, we learned a lot about the research process and the background of it. To date, there are about 80 things in the pipeline right now and one of them sounded very promising, but they wouldn’t give specifics. We try not to get too excited. We jumped on that Lithium study that I mentioned a few journals back, but I asked the doctor about it and they said there’s no use putting stuff in our bodies if we don’t know if it works…I agreed, especially since Kip has the fastest progression rate amongst all the ALS friends we’ve met. I started to think we were doing more harm than good. This disease is such a guessing game…I look back and giggle about all the things we did…do you remember me mentioning the 8 carrots, celery, beats, cabbage and an apple for flavor shakes! Yummy!! Hey, we gave it a shot Other than that, we have been in contact with the VA (just went down to St. Paul for his physical two weeks ago now) and in hopes that there will be assistance with the bathroom that we need badly. Being Kip’s fully in his wheelchair, that couple of steps from the door to the toilet gets to be long and then the stand up shower is not the safest thing. He holds on for dear life:) I’ve had a break in that area. We now have home health care come in Mon-Fri for two hours and clean him up and do misc things around the house. It’s amazing! It leaves more time for all of us the hang out at night…and do homework!! Seriously, we got homework for us sent home the other day…isn’t that funny?! 4th grade is a busy one! We also have physical therapy coming in three times a week to stretch him. And then at lunchtime, someone comes to see him for about an hour or so and gives him lunch and pills. If you ever have a day off and you’d like to venture over, call and sign up! He’s always loved company! Kip’s also been busy hunting…he’s shot two deer with his cross bow! The 1st one he was with my Dad at our house and then the 2nd he was out with Chip Imker…thank you to all who do this for him! It’s very exciting for him…he loves when people take him out in the ground blind. It’s something for him to look forward too and we all want those smiles to keep coming!! He’s truly still amazing in that respect. I feel like I’m always telling Kip to write something on the board and I’m not so sure why he hasn’t, but we would LOVE to hear from you Babe! I know it may take a little longer than the olden days, but make it happin’ captain! Other than hunting and getting ready for the addition, we are looking forward to the holidays and spending time with our loved ones. I recall thinking last Christmas was our last…it was a hard Christmas last year:), but we try to live each day to the fullest and enjoy this precious time. Please continue to write. If you’re reading this right now, I’ll be very disappointed if you don’t write and say hi to us. We love the entries! Also, one more thing…I wanted to thank the girls who threw the Tupperware party for us. It’s been a success and I can’t even believe the support. Kip and I are just amazed on a daily basis. It’s incredible. I think that’s it for now! I hope this email finds everyone doing well.

Lots of love from the Blomquist’s!

“Never Give Up”

Hi kip and shannon just read the update and wanted to say hi. Im at work so Ill keep it short know we are thinking of you!!!

Hello from the Wades! It’s been forever since I’ve seen you guys! Just wanted to say HI and know that we’re always thinking of you and your family! I check your site everyday and love to get the updates. Have a fabulous Thanksgiving!
God’s Blessings…
Paul and Amy

Kip and Shannon-
Thanks for the update! I think about your family so often. I’m glad you are able to get some help a couple of days each week. Kip- I hope you will consider the feeding tube. John just got one last week. He still eats all of his food, but the tube will be there when he needs it. One very important thing to know is that they won’t give you the heavy duty pain meds after surgery if your breathing is low. (John found out the hard way because his breathing is at 70%). Go in soon while you can get the good drugs!
-Stephanie

Hi Guys, Just want you to know I am thinking about you often. You are both a great inspiration in many lives. Hope all is well for you today.

Jenny

Hi Kippy, Shannon, and Family,

Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving! Love and prayers to you all…
Love, Deb

Hey guys- Just wanted to say Happy Thanksgiving and we hope that you had a nice day together with the family. We thought of you and are thankful you are in our lives. Keep your chins up and we hope to see ya soon.
Lots of love- The Godfrey’s

Mom and dad said Happy Thanksgiving as well!

Hey Kip and Shannon, I was reading the updates and Just wanted to say you guys sound like you are doing great. I read the updates often but this is my first time posting but it will not be the last. Kind of a bummer I have not run in to you guys in a while but I guess that is my fault because I can alway come to your place. I will try to get up there soon and say hi. See you soon and “never give up”

Tom Leeb

Hi Blomquist’s!

We (Duane and I) sure miss you guys. Hope you had a great Thanksgiving! We will need to come and visit sometime soon! Thanks for updating us and keepingus in the loop.

Hugs and love,

Krazy Kelly

Greetings to the Kippy, Shannon and your adorable children-

We think of you guys often and hope things are going well. As I have said in the past you guys are our inspiration. We have been put to the test as well. We take one day at a time and pray it will be a good day!

Dad said he had a nice time visiting with you the other day. He said you guys laughed alot. That is the best medice.

Wishing you a happy day and a wonderful Christmas for your family!

Love to you all!

Hugs to you,

Dawn Marie, Brandon, Coy, Kelsey and Jarret

Hi my favorite son-in-law, here’s the deal; I am willing to go ice fishing — only if you go too. So now it’s your move to come up with a date. I’ll be watching your web site everyday to see if you wrote back with a date (don’t wait to long, cause I could chicken out). I’m very scared but I think I can do this, after all I went down the Rum River with you guys. (I never thought I could do that and I did). Waiting patiently and with alot of love for you. P.s. Shan it only counts if Kip writes back himself. Love you so much, mom

Golly gee…these updates are getting far and few between with the holidays and year end for me! I have to apologize up front! Things are going well…Kip shot another deer last night! Mitch, my Dad & Rick had been working on a heated hunting shack last week and it’s set in place right behind our house! Mitch plows a trail all the way out there and Kip can just sit in his wheelchair…very handy!! He has a ramp and all! Last night, Jordan was chomping at the bit to go out there and wouldn’t you know it…lucky guys! Mitch and I were in the house when the phone rang and I thought they were kidding. Jordan was on the other end and said “come out and get us”. It’s such a great thing being “Big J” got to be out there with dad yet again! He’s such a trooper. Last night as we were sitting in the garage (after we got the deer in), Kip looks down (trying to spread his fingers out) and said “these hands of mine pulled it off again. They still got 15 more days (until the seasons over)”. He’s not giving up yet! On another good note, Kip decided to take up his Re-liv shakes again and boy is he determined to get three in a day. It’s great! Many of us noticed that his speech kind of got a little more “weak” after he quit taking them, so he wanted to re-start. I’m very proud of him! Something’s better than nothing, right?! His speech has gotten a bit worse…last night he wanted to say “too” and instead he said “also” because the “t” doesn’t come out as fluent as he’s like…(as an example). Those are the little things that are tough to see. As the holidays are coming, we’ve been busy with parties. We just had Kip’s Christmas party with Pellco and I can’t tell you how great it was for Kip to see everyone. Lots of tears & laughter! It was so great for Kip to get out of the house too. We actually have a mini-van on order, but this weekend we borrowed Bob Scott’s van and it was great! It was HUGE, but great! I kept saying “Look out, big mama comin’ thru” and I could just hear Kip giggle in the back. It was so nice to get out! Kip has been battling this little cold and I’m hoping it’s gone or going away! Tis the season, right?! It seems like everyone has a cold. It’s tough on him though because he has this little flap in the back of this throat that doesn’t quite cooperate and closes on him, making it more difficult to breath, cough and blow his nose. We work thru it though…he’s not going to let a little cold get him down! I actually just called the ALS clinic today and asked about a few things (here’s the “not so fun” part of the update)…Kip has a little excess saliva, which is common but evident with ALS. He also has been biting those darn cheeks of his, so I’m in the process of talking with the speech therapist to see if there’s a mouth guard or something. His breathing has obviously gone down a bit, so we are “debating” about the feeding tube…most patients are against it. If you’ve read other entries, you’ll see the Vleck’s had to take this step unfortunately and being John’s breathing got below a certain point, it wasn’t the funnest thing to go thru. Speaking of our ALS families, we send lots of thought and prayers to Michelle Houston and her family…they just had a benefit and we completely planned on meeting our friends (Mari Beth & Jerry) to show our support, but mother nature decided it wasn’t a good day to hop in that big conversion van!! If anyone whose reading this can give big hugs to the Houston’s from the Blomquist’s…that would be great! I’m not sure who all knows Kip’s set-up with his computer, but he has this little dot that he sticks to his forehead and he can type with that (his head). The reason I bring this up is because he LOST his dots! I got home one night last week and he was literally huffing and puffing…he was lost all day and has been since. We tried everything! They should (I hope!!) be in the mail today! Needless to say, if you’ve emailed him and haven’t gotten a response…that’s why! He refers to it as his “life line” and loves working on the computer (and is great at it too!). It takes a lot more effort and patience than the average person would like to contribute and he makes it look so easy! I feel like I have so much more to update you on…I’ll just list them…

-HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOMORROW Kip! He turns the big 38 (December 17th)!! If you’re not aware of his “surprise” party that I ruined at 11pm on Sunday night (I was so upset!!)…it’s Friday, the 19th at 7:00. He still has no idea on details, but I know he would love to see so many friendly faces!
-Kip’s buddy Dan is making his a cup holder for his wheel chair and boy is he excited!! You all know how much he loves his “Vitamin B”.
-We’re hoping to get the addition underway soon…we need a bathroom very bad. The few steps he takes are getting harder and we’d all hate for him to fall…or stink:) If anyone has free time, Kip’s been making the calls to see who can help. He hates calling, but loves the incoming calls. I think he thinks he’s a burden…I continuously tell him he’s not a burden…he’s just a pain in the a$$! Love you babe!
-My dad is chomping at the bit to get Kip on the ice. We just talked to someone at the ALS clinic yesterday and they’re going to see if there’s any adaptive equipment that will help him…there seems to be something for everything, so let’s hope! And them…MOM, YOU’RE ON!! Love you!
-Speaking of Grandma Sue…Maddie was there on Friday (we were at the Christmas party) and wouldn’t you know it…but she’s a walking fool! How do Grandma’s do it?! She said “next we’re on to potty training”. Where does the time go! Maddie is such a little gift…she just adores her brothers and sister!! It’s incredible! As soon as Mitch & Jordan walk in the house, they’re looking for her and she’s looking for them!
-Kip & Rick went on an adventure to look for a toboggan…aka: a big sled! They were successful! We look forward to the warm weather…I’m hoping to throw Kip in it…wouldn’t that be hilarious! We want to thank Rick for all he’s done and all he is…it’s amazing! We love all of you Anderson’s! Happy Holidays to all! Lots of love & hugs from the Blomquist’s.

p.s. big hugs go out to the Hoeschen’s (Rian’s family)…they lost a loving family member this week unexpectedly…Rian’s aunt Carol. That’s never an easy thing and we just want you to know we’re thinking about you all!

Also, big hugs to Coy Anderson and his family (Dawn Marie, Brandon, Kelsey & Jarret)….Coy was diagnosed with T Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and he’s fighting the fight that will eventually be a success (with as hard as he and his family are fighting and all the love and prayers!), but right now it’s good and bad days and we just want you to know how much you’re thought of in our household too! Stay strong, Coy!

I’m signing off for now…I feel like I could type so much! Stop by anytime, call, email…Kip loves to hear from you all!

Merry Christmas! Lots of love, The Blomquist’s

(Kip, Shannon, Breana, Mitch, Jordan & Madison)

One more thing:)…I don’t think we’ll be doing Christmas cards this year…time is tough to find some days…you never know though…if that doesn’t happen, we’ll shoot for New Year’s!

Walk 2 Defeat ALS Update!!!! I was so excited to share the following information with my fellow Team Blomquist members. Final numbers have been tallied and show that Team Blomquist was able to raise $10,817.50 for the ALS MN Chapter!! This was by no means a competition of any sort, but I think that we can all take pride in the fact the we were able to raise the 9th most amount of money out of 133 teams! A special thanks to NRG Energy for all of their support. Again, I am so proud of each and every one of you for all that you do for Kip and his family and I am honored to have met each and every one of you! The Walk 2 Defeat ALS will take place again on September 19th, 2009 in St. Cloud - be sure to save the date!

With love,
Rian

Greetings to all! I got my dot’s in the mail today, so I am able to use my computer again. I want to thank you all for your messages, I check here most everyday. LOVE, KIP

Yay! So good to hear from you KIP!!! Just wanted to post a Happy Birthday for you on the 17th- tomorrow. Have a GREAT DAY!!!
Love- Krazy Kelly and Duane

Happy Happy Birthday Kip!!!! Hope your day is as great as you are!!!!!! I Love You So Much!!!! “Never Give Up” Love Sue, Wayne, Tiff and Cassie

HAPPY BirthDAY KippEroooo! I LovE YoUUUUUU!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Looks like I’m going ICE FISHING!!!!!!!!!
LOVE YOU SO MUCH
“I’ll never give up, Because you’ll NEVER GIVE UP”

happy birth day kip hope you got spend a good birth day with your family my thoughts and prayers arde with you I often wonder how you are doing but wish i could keep in touch better you are a good guy

i hope to hear from you

I usually log on here each day and start to submit a comment, as I write alittle, either my phone rings here at work, or I am interuppted in some way - could be just a mental block and I never finish. My apologies. I just read Shannon’s update - and YOU ROCK SISTER! It is so nice to read those, even though I know most of whats going on daily. (lucky me). I just want to say how much I LOVE your WHOLE ENTIRE FAMILY! Each one of you are a blessing and my family and I are all soooo lucky to have you in our lives. The holiday season always stresses me out as I am very much a procrastinator, but we should not sweat all the small stuff right? The season is all about the Miracle of Jesus’s birth and being with family and friends. I wish you all smiles everyday!
Love and hugs, your friend Dana

Hey there kip, thumbs up on shooting the deer. Hope your birthday was a great one, just want to wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year. thoughts and prayers, jeff

Hey Chris,
I hope your doing well.
I miss youu and I Hope you have great Christmas!!

Merry Merry Christmas to my favorite son-in-law and your Beautiful wife and my wonderful grandkids. I LOVE YOU GUYS SO MUCH!!!!!!!!!!!! If I could take all your pain away, I would in a second. “NEVER GIVE UP” Love Sue, mom

Kippy, Shannon and family,

Just wanted to write and say we are thinking of you! Praying for good days and nights for you. Also, I would not of been out fishing last year if it wasn’t for you and Brandon. We had a wonderful time with you guys last year in Blackduck. Thanks for letting us share in the fun with you and your friends. I can’t believe it has been a year already. Hugs and kisses to you guys. Hope you have a wonderful Christmas and wishing you a Happy Healthy New year with a CURE!
Our love to you, Dawn Marie, Brandon, Coy, Kelsey and Jarret

My big brother kippy and my loving shannon! We are coming upon a new year. I look forward to many, many more family fun times. When I am around you guys, it gives me so much hope and encouragement to deal with the curves life throws me..Kip I love you soooo much and everyday I wish I could take away your pain. I think back sometimes to when we were little. We were the best of friends, then we were the worst of enemy’s. I was the little tag-a-long sister..Well I learned more than you know from tagging a long.(HE HE HE)No really, like how kind, considerate and brave my brother is and I always wished I could be. I wouldn’t change one day of it!!! You were always there when I needed you. Now it is my turn to be there for you! I love you sooooooooo much.(I hope that is enough Sue?) I know this is going to be a year of new challenges, but with “Team Blomquist” we are going to plow right through them!! “NEVER GIVE UP” right?……
Shannon, well what can I say YOU ARE THE BEST EVER!!!! LOVE YOU ALL!!!

Kip check this out, A CURE is so near
Stem cell therapy can be used to reduce some symptoms, improve a patient’s quality of life and slow down chronic consequences of ALS. The exact process behind the workings of the stem cells re-introduced to the patient’s body is not yet fully understood.

The stem cells are first collected from a patient’s bone marrow, extracted from the hipbone (iliac crest) then implanted back into the body days later. Prior to re-implantation of the cells, the bone marrow is processed in one of our labs, where the quantity and quality of the stem cells is also checked.

Results
The survey was conducted one to six months after the treatment of each patient.

16 out of 53 patients reported no change in muscle spasticity, sensation, mobility or feeling of wellbeing after the treatment.
19 out of 53 patients reported an overall improvement, with improved mobility (legs, arms) and/or improved breathing and or/ improved strength. Some patients reported a regaining of muscle strength and/or an improvement of balance, sleeping or a reduction of spasms.
One patient reported a strong improvement, with a marked improvement of mobility, breathing, speech and swallowing.
17 out of 53 patients reported a perceived deterioration of the quality of their life. A majority of these patients saw a reduction of mobility, strength, speech/swallowing or balance. The treatment could neither stop nor reverse the advance of the ALS symptoms. It is believed that the treatment has not adversely affected the patients.
Cost
The costs of an ALS stem cell treatment are approximately €7,545 (Euro) using the lumbar puncture method.
“NEVER GIVE UP” I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!!! SUE

Hi Kip, Shannon, and family,

Just wanted to wish you a HAPPY NEW YEAR! Hope your day is great!

Lots of Love,

Jenny

Kip, Just wanted to stop by and check the updates and say hi.HAVE A GREAT AND HAPPY NEW YEAR..H.J.

Hi Kip -
It was so great to see you and talk with you at your birthday party. What a great time everyone was having and Jerry and I felt so welcomed by all of your friends and family. You have so many people that care about you. Shannon told me you should be getting a van soon - that should help you get out and about more. Jerry would like to drive up sometime soon to just sit and talk and maybe have a few beers with ya! Congrats on getting yet another deer on New Year’s Eve! That is AMAZING!
As always, thankful for the friendship with Shannon and inspired by all of you. Hope to see you again soon.

Happy New Year!

We had a wonderful Christmas…lots of friends and family that we are so blessed with! As tough as things can get, you all make it brighter. Thank you! We also had a very great New Years! Kip got yet another deer! We had plans to go up to the Casino in Hinckley, but of course I had to wait until he got out of the hunting shack:)!! My Dad came up to sit in the stand with Kip, while my mom and sister babysat Maddie. It worked out great. He was so eager to sit out there on the last night and it turned out to be a dream come true. We’re all so proud of him! He kept saying “I got another deer”. We had to put ANOTHER call into Rick and have him come up and help my dad:) Big thanks Rick and my Dad (Wayne)!! What would we do without you guys?! After we wrapped all that up, I went to Bob Scott’s and got the conversion van and got back home and loaded Kip up. We can’t wait to get our van! It will be so nice to be able to hop it in when ever we feel like running. Soon!! Grandpa Jim and Uncle Jerry ran Kip to the VA in St. Cloud last Monday to register and get a few things done…the VA is proving to be very helpful in our battle. Things take longer, but we’re still thankful we can fall back on that and they are in the process of helping us get the van!

The kids had a great Christmas as well! For those of you who around often, you all know what an amazing kid Mitch is and we just want him to know how thankful we are for him…he’s really picked up a lot of Kip’s duties and sure he gets pooped, he still plugs on with a great attitude. Anyways…he got his Xbox 360 (maybe he’s called you already to ask if you knew what he was getting:)!!!). He was so psyched! I had stood in Wal-marts line the day after Thanksgiving at 4am, so it also came with the guitar hero! We kept telling him he was getting an air compressor…aren’t we horrible?! And Jordan got the ipod he wanted, but we had a little fun with that too. I had wrapped it in a diapers box with actual diapers, blankets…he said “what the heck?” I think he thought he got Maddie’s present at first. It was cute! Breana got accessories for her laptop and a printer. To be honest with you, we kind of took the easy route on Maddie…she’s too little to know, plus she just had a b-day:) She’s happy with Bella (our dog)…you should see the two of them! It’s amazing! It makes Kip happy to see Maddie playing with Bella being Kip can’t do it anymore. It’s all about teamwork!

I think I could go on and on…especially with all the thanks for so much! We thank God everyday for what we have been given in this icky situation. We’re just so grateful I have him today. Happy New Year again! Lots of love from the Blomquist’s!

“Never Give Up”

Happy New Year Blomquist Family! All my love to you.

Thank you again for hosting Christmas. You have so much on your plate yet you take the time to make all those around you feel welcome and comfortable. You are amazing people.

Hope to see you soon.
Hugs & Kisses,
Sonia

Hello Blomquists! SO glad to hear you had a wonderful Xmas and New Years!! We had fun talking and playing out at your house at Kip’s Birthday. Thanks for taking all us girls out on the rhino for the sled ride!! Duane and I had a great Christmas too, Duane proposed and it was an awesome surprise! We also found a house in Isanti and are putting an offer in tomorrow. Hopefully it goes through- then we can visit you more!! Duane says Hi and Congrats on yet another deer! Marissa is in bed sleeping right now, we got to head to bed too. I am beat and have to work on a Saturday tomorrow. Take care, lots of love, and “NEVER GIVE UP!” Hope to see you soon again- Love Krazy Kelly

Hi,
Just want you to know you are in my continual prayers!!Glad Hunting season went well and you had a great Christmas. Happy 2009 to you!!
Loves and hugs,
(Mama) Jean Jenner

Kip check this out, I’m telling you a CURE is near!! “NEVER GIVE UP” I LOVE YOU SO MUCH

Karen Brooks—ALS patient
Name: Karen Brooks
Sex: Female
Country: Australia
Age: 43
Diagnosis: ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis)

Before treatment:

Karen was diagnosed with ALS in May 2006. Her condition rapidly deteriorated ever since.

ALS, is a progressive, fatal, neurodegenerative disease caused by the degeneration of motor neurons, the nerve cells in the central nervous system that control voluntary muscle movement. The disorder causes muscle weakness and atrophy throughout the body.

Karen was diagnosed with ALS only one year ago. Her condition since then has deteriorated to the point that she could no longer use her arms and legs, and had to use the help of caregivers for all her personal daily care, helping her in washing, dressing, getting in and out of bed. While being dressed up, or forced to do big movements, she suffered great pain in her muscles.
She needed someone to feed her as she did not have enough strength to bring her hands to her mouth, she could not hold a cup of water, or even turn the pages of a book.

Her voice was getting weaker, and her speech was slow and difficult to understand.

She did not have enough strength to hold herself sitting on the bed or lie down from sitting position without help.

Her neck muscles were very weak and her head was falling backwards while she could not bring it forward on her own.

Her legs were weak and stiff and she suffered frequent cramps and twitches. She could lift her legs only few inches high from a sitting position.
She could not walk anymore or stand without support, and used a wheelchair for transportation.

Dr Like Wu and Dr Xiaojuan Wang gave her 4 injections of neural stem cells through the spinal cord fluid and nutritious intravenous cocktail treatment (IV).

After stem cell treatment:

Karen started to slowly show improvements few days after starting to receive a daily nutritious cocktail through IV. She then continued to show improvements along the 6 weeks of her treatment.

Her hands and arms were the first to respond to the treatment; her fingers, that before were closed inside her palm, opened up and straightened. Before the treatment her arms lay in her lap and she could hardly lift them up. After the treatment Karen could lift her arms to chest high, and was able to resist to a light pressure with her arms. Dr Like Wu said it is a great improvment for a ALS patient.

Her legs got significantly stronger; she could now lift them from a sitting position almost to knees high, she could put more weight on her legs while trying to stand and eventually walk. The cramps in her legs were almost gone.

Since her muscles got stronger, and were now more open and flexible, she could hold herself in a sitting position on the bed without support, she could participate more in the process of dressing up, washing up and transportation from one place to another; and the muscle pain that she suffered during these activities was greatly reduced.

Her neck muscles got stronger and she could now control her neck movement, bringing her head backward and forward by herself.

Karen’s voice had little improvement of getting louder and stronger, and her speech, though still slow, could be better understood.

Karen’s condition will be monitored carefully in the coming months. She was recommended by the doctors to come back for another treatment.

Hey guys hope all is good. i was just thinking about how i love you both so much!!! I hope this new year brings only good for you guys. I was thinking and Joel can help Kip with stuff anytime. It would be good too put him to work. But Shannon I’m going to make you happier with me than you are now. I promise. Ma is busting her butt always looking for stuff on the computer and i know a cure is close. just hang in there. i give you lots of props babe and kip!!!

I love you both so much!!!!

love Tiff

Hello Kip! Well it sure is a bit on the chilly side today. 24- zero. What the Hell! Hope your are snug as a bug at home with your wool socks on. As I was filling the wood stove last night, I was remembering one of the Little House on the Prarie episodes when it was a really bruttle winter with a huge blizzard and Pa tied a rope from the barn to the house so he wouldn’t get lost. I was feeling Thankful that it is not the bad out and how lucky we are with the whole indoor plumbing thing. Any hooskie, just sending a big warm hug your way! Love you lots and lots!
Dana

Happy Friday!

Just wanted to send a little update on this weeks events…

We were anxiously awaiting our new van, which was supposed to be here Wed night or Thur and Kip called the dealership yesterday (who was supposed to deliver it) and it just so happens the individual has been out all week due to the loss of a family member and they didn’t completely cover his responsibilities. So needless to say…it’s coming soon. Kip was pretty disappointed last night, but before long we’ll be able to throw him in the van and head anywhere we want with ease. You take for granted the ability to just hop in the car and go…

We kind of had a scare this week. I had noticed Kip’s feet were abnormally different in temperature (one really cold and one really hot) for about three days. I had called the ALS clinic and they recommended we take him into the emergency room in the case it was a blood clot. When I heard that, I called my parents and my dad ran out to my house to “test his feet”. It turned out fine…not sure what the deal was, but it was weird. Kip’s index finger has also been giving him alot of pain. The clinic thinks it’s due to his poor hands curling up, so on Monday we have an appt to get a bo-tox (sp?) injection. They say it will help with the pain and it may help straighten it out some. That would be great! His poor hands are taking a turn…literally. During daily pt he has them stretched, but they like to go right back to “getting settled”.

We visited the VA last week…the dentist (very nice facility) & speech therapy. It was a very full morning and then we had a very long visit with social security. It’s a lot of paperwork, but I think we’re getting to the bottom of it. I have piles after piles of stuff…and no clue what’s in them. Kip will tell me to go find a certain pc of paper and I cringe. I’m usually very organized…time just gets away from me:)

Mitch just turned 16 on Tuesday! Happy Birthday Bud! I can’t brag enough about what a wonderful young man he is! He is in the process of taking his behind the wheel hours (6) and soon will have his license. Holy smokes! Tonight he is having a little get together!

I just want to mention how proud I am of Kip. Sure he pisses me off on days:), but he has such a good attitude on life and continues to look for things to do. It’s amazing. Keep up the good work honey…you’re an inspiration to so many of us. Love you!

That’s all for now…I hope this update finds everyone staying warm!

Love , The Blomquist’s

“Never Give Up”

Hey family!!! Just wanted to drop by and give you all a little love and to say, Have a blast this weekend!!! Hope the new van ROCKS!!!!! Talk to you soon!! Love you all!!!!! Toot

hello
i hope you guys have lots of fun this weekend fishing, i know maddie will have so much fun at grandmas playing with her aunties. i just wanted to tell you guys that i love you both soo muchh!!

Hey Kip and Shannon! I hope you got your new van and have already had a couple of adventures. I’m not sure that anyone would want to venture out in this cold, though. Bundle up, Kip! We are thinking of you always.

Read this today and thought about you……
“When we look at statue of someone great we tend to think they’ve got something we don’t. We are trained to think that only a tiny percentage of us have the stuff that it takes to be a hero. Not many of us will cure any diseases or slay any dragons, but every single one of us, EVERY SINGLE ONE OF US, is called to be a king, a queen, a hero in our ordinary lives. We do not build statues to worship the exceptional life, we build them to remind us of what is possible in our own.”

Kip, you are my hero. I hope all is well and that fishing went great…looking forward to getting together soon, pass my hello’s onto the kids and Shannon…miss and love you guys….

Val

Hi Kip and Shannon! We feel like we’re about a thousand miles away from you down here, so it sure is nice to be able to feel like we’re keeping in touch this way. We hope you’re both hanging in there, getting rest when you can, and staying warm. Hope to see you again soon.

-Nathan & Kim

Hello!

We had a very nice (and needed) surprise drive up last Thursday…a minivan! It’s hard to explain the joy it brings to the Blomquist’s! We open the door, drop the ramp and Kip drives right in! Those last few times of getting him from his wheelchair to the Suburban were a wee-bit scary. We can now hop in the van and go anywhere at anytime…it’s just amazing! Plus he gets to be in his automatic wheelchair vs. manual and it’s so much more comfortable for him. Now he has no excuses:)

We were all starting to feel Closter phobic. On Monday, Kip had bo-tox injections in his fingers (I’ll explain more soon) and when we drove home I suggested we get the boys and go OUT to eat! It was the best. I thought the boys would be waiting at the end of the driveway when we pulled it…just kidding, but we were all ecstatic to be out and about!

Kip has had some sore fingers…from curling up (part of this FANTASTIC disease). It’s primarily his index fingers. We took a trip down to see our Dr. at HCMC and they injected bo-tox into both his index fingers. The 1st one went well, the 2nd one…not so well. Kip all of sudden started to turn WHITE/GRAY! He almost passed out (don’t worry…I made fun of him…in a nice way!). We opened to doors, got a fan, Dr. Teriyaki was waving her folder on him for air and I fed him juice. He said “I’ve never felt that way before”. Needless to say bo-tox can be bothersome. He was instructed to wiggle his finger so they could determine if they were injecting it into his index finger vs. another one and he can’t really wiggle his fingers anymore so they had a hard time finding it on the 2nd hand. All is good now! We should know by today if it helped and if he likes it, he’ll need to get it every 3 months going forward.

We now have home health care coming in for three hours daily (instead of two) and they get him up and ready for the day and then end with physical therapy. They really have been trying to work his upper body…that seems to be getting more and stiffer. We just love those girls and are so grateful to them. We did have a little scare the other day…he got forgot about. The schedule was overlooked. It just so happened, that morning before I left for work, I just happened to put the phone on Kip’s chest (never do that) and at 10:26 I got a phone call from him saying “I’m still lying in bed”. I about died. I instantly called home health care and flew out the door. They ended up beating me there (thank Goodness…it took me an hour) and got him up. He was not a happy camper!! I now leave the phone on his chest every morning before I leave.

The following day I got a phone call from Vicki (baby-sits Maddie) and Maddie was sick. I had my mom & sisters go get her and they called a few hours later saying Maddie needs to go to the Dr. I rushed home again…to only sit in urgent care for 4 hours. She was o.k. and they just said go home, but her temp was over 105. She stayed up all night, so I of course stayed home with her and then Friday I had scheduled off because we were heading to the cabin. What a week ha?! It was a doozie!

Friday, we headed North!! Woohoo!! Our plan was to all meet at our house (about 15 of us), head to Blackduck and then fish Red Lake Saturday morning. Well…we really tried fishing, but only got about 7! The memories are irreplaceable though!! The ALS clinic had sent this little gadget that hooked onto Kip’s forearm so he could jig. He didn’t catch anything, but he sure enjoyed trying. Thank you to all of you who came…it meant so much to Kip and I.

I just have to say that I am so proud of Kip and his willingness to keep fighting! He just keeps going! Always a happy smile! From hunting to fishing…he sure is not giving up!

The last thing I wanted to mention is his newest gadget that will be coming…the Tobie (speaking software). As bad as it is…we know he’ll have to eventually speak without words. It’s just amazing how much technology can extend someones abilities. It’s not something we want or ask for, but we’re just so grateful we’ll be able to communicate with him…although…the 1st thing he put in whne they were at the house testing it was “Babe, I’m hungary”…yeah, that could get real old…especially since he has the ability to “shout” it. This could be intersting:) Although he may be slower…he’s still a pain in my ass:) Right, Kip?! Love you!

I feel like I could update you on so much more, but I have to work:) I’ll get back soon. Please keep in touch with us…we love to see your hi’s!

Love from the Blomquist’s

“Never Give Up”

Hey Kip & Shannon.! i am just stopping by to show some love, and tell you both how much i love you, and i think about you both all the time and your both always in my prays. and i send my hugs & kisses.!!
love you, Cassie

Hi guys I wanted to tell you “Thank You So Much” for taking dad along last weekend. He won’t quit talking about how much fun he had. Kip you amaze me, I’m so blessed to have you as my son-in-law, Shannon is a very lucky lady.

Shan I’m so proud of you, You are the best wife and mother in the world!!!!! Oh best daughter too (lol) lets not tell your sisters I said that. Kip is a very lucky man.

I Love You both so much!!!!! “Never Give Up”

Kip, Shannon and family,

It was so great to see you guys the other night. It has been so long! The two of you are such an inspiration to me. Maddie is adorable and such a sweet little girl, I have not seen her since your benefit. Your boys are so handsome as well and what wonderful helpers they are! Hope to see you again soon. Coy says hello to you guys.

Hugs,

Dawn and family

Kip, Shannon, and Family

The hilite of my weekend for surely was seeing you guys. It has been so long. Thank you for making my day!

Love, Deb

Hi everyone!

Just a quick update…

I can’t tell you how much we love our new van (minus trying to figure out the locks!!). I left work early yesterday for personal reasons (aka: bad day…we all have those, right?!) and went home, loaded Kip up and took him into town to get a pedicure/manicure and a haircut! He felt like a brand new man! He loves getting out and about! We have his quarterly appt tomorrow at HCMC. It’s a little earlier than three months from his last, but I think they want to test his “breathing” and maybe talk him into getting a feeding tube (which he is denying). He does not like the thought of it…it grosses him out. I can’t blame him, but I also don’t want to see him in pain being he won’t be able to take meds anymore or be thirsty/hungry…seriously…no beer?!! What’s this world going to come to?! I should really get rid of the kegmeister and he’d see what it’s like-j/k…but that’s not a bad idea:)I will send another update when we know more. I’m so thankful for your comments…it makes our day to see people visit. Also, I have to send a big thank you to my Dad (Wayne)…he’s been out so much lately…thank you Dad!

Quick Tidbits:

-Friday we went to the Anderson’s to talk about an upcoming event for Coy and it was so great to see everyone! Lots of love!
-Saturday Mitch had snowdays…he was so cute! I left to go to a benefit & celebrate Sonia’s birthday and told him and his buddy to take pictures…yeah, that didn’t go so well! Instead of taking a picture of each other separately, they took one picture in the mirror. Goofs!
-Monday, Lance Hasselfeldt came and picked Kip up to go see Herb (a good buddy from all hunting)…it’s so great they got to see each other!

Thank you to everyone for all your support!

Love, The Blomquist’s

“Never Give Up”

Hello and good morning!!
Just wanted to say hello and let you know that we are always thinking about you guys and praying for a cure!! Love and hugs to you!!

Thinking about you guys today for your appointment! Your van is definitely “The Bomb”! I love it! I am so happy for you guys to have that mobility now! You deserve every bit of convenience. Glad you have good travel weather today. Love you guys a ton, and count us in anytime you need a sitter. Your family is ALWAYS welcome, our home is your home! Have a blessed day!
Love Dana

Hi there!

It was one crazy week last week. I’m sure many of you heard that Kip came down with a severe case of strep throat. It was horrible. Last Wednesday, my dad called out to the house and he didn’t answer so he just drove there. He found Kip freezing, but sweating. Not a good sign. I stopped at Walgreens and $78 dollars later we have our very own Blomquist pharmacy. I had NO idea what to get him! He was real sick that night and then he had his quarterly appt that next day. I really didn’t think I was going to be able to get him out of bed (very weak), but it was either that or go to Cambridge to get checked out. We ended up going to HCMC and after everything was said and done, they should just throw out all his tests. He was so weak and sick…that all his pt (upper and lower) and breathing were real bad. His breathing was in the 50 percentile (down fr 81% last time). It’s real scary, but it helped knowing his sickness played a big role in the results. I’m happy to say he’s a brand new man and feeling MUCH better! Being the great guy Kip is, he had a special Valentine’s weekend planned for us this last weekend and we unfortunately had to cancel on Friday, but being he was feeling better we headed to Black bear Casino on Saturday. We had an amazing time and to top things off, we were just about to leave and Kip wanted to play “one more time”. He sat at the machine (I sit next to him and when he gets pooped I hit the button) and wouldn’t you know it…Jackpot, Progressive, Call the Attendant come flashing on the screen. He won $1267!! He was so happy!! You should’ve seen his smiling face! We took the money and ran! Good job hun! On another good note, Kip decided to go thru with the feeding tube. I just teared up and thanked God! I am so happy he said yes. He’s still wheezy feeling about it, but it will be a great thing. The feeding tube only extends your life about a month or two, but it’s good to know he’ll be able to take pills if he has a headache/fever or water if he’s thirsty. He’s scheduled for that on Feb 23rd. Although it will be in and usable, it could be a while (I hope!) that he even needs to use it. We just need to have the procedure done so he can have pain meds to relieve the pain that follows afterwards (it will take about a week to recover). Until that date, there’s lots of appts to be scheduled (MRI, chest x-ray, sleep apnea…I should receive the packet today). On ANOTHER good note, we are officially starting the addition. Liberty Exteriors (Eddie Wilkinson & Jeff Pole have been our main contacts) have been so good to us and hope to have the project done within two months…we need a bathroom real bad. Kip’s legs have just gotten weak and we don’t want ANY falls. We are so thankful for their help and guidance…and look forward to seeing so many friends and family that have graciously volunteered their specialties. If you’re good at something…come on up! We’ll be there with our construction hats on…aka beer hats:) With that said, I will be done working this Friday. Kip really needs me home and I’ve come to realize I just can’t pull off both worlds right now. I need to be there for him and the kids. It will be a good thing. My company has been amazing to us, but my heads just not fully in the Accounting world right now:) I will miss it though. I have a few things that need to be wrapped up before I say my good-byes for good…so I should get to work! I hope this update finds everyone doing well!

Love, The Blomquist’s

“Never Give Up”

**p.s. Mitch passed his drivers test this morning!! Congratulations bud…we’re so proud of you!

Just checking out your update, thought I’d say Hi. Way to go at the Casino! I bet that was a blast! Could never complain when you leave with more money than you walk in with.

Love,

Jenny

Going in for my exit interview! Pretty nervous, but very excited to be home with that wonderful husband of mine!

Happy Friday everyone!

“Never Give Up”

Just a quick note to say “Hi”! Wanted to let you guys know we think of you more than you will ever know…Am keeping you and your family in our prayers. Hope you two had a great Valentine’s Day; you’re such a cute couple!
Never Give Up!!!!
Paul and Amy

Hi Blomquists! We hope you 2 had a wonderful Valentines Day! 1 more week and we will finally be living in Isanti. We are having a get together on Sat March 7th at the new house if you can make it. It goes from noon til ?? The address is 1001 Winsome Way Isanti. Loved the casino story and pics! Now you can say “That’s my Grand Casino Story” just like the commercial! How awesome is that! We miss you and think of you often! Sorry we have not been in touch, but with me working 60 hours in the end of December and all of January into the first part of February, and getting ready for the move, and chasing Marissa around who is walking all over now it has been hard to stay in touch with all of our family and friends the last month and a half. We are still here and are sorry we have not been in contact. SHannon- I will be calling you for some cocktails sometime after we are settled in the new house like we said in the email! Can’t wait to see you soon! Love Krazy Kelly and Duane

Hello everyone!

It’s been a full week since I’ve been home! Kip’s had lots of appointments this week in preparation for his peg/feeding tube. Poor guy has been in and out of that van more than he’s bargained for, but our van is still the biggest blessing! Monday, we went to HCMC for a check-up and to determine whether or not he needed another sleep apnea test and he passed…meaning there’s no need for another over night stay to test his sleeping. The main reason for this is to ensure he’s breathing well when he’s under for surgery. Tuesday, we had a super great day…we headed down to his work (Pellco) and had lunch with everyone. It was a very long overdo visit and it just brings tears to my eyes to see how much he’s missed and loved. He misses them all greatly. Wednesday, we had an appointment at the VA in St. Cloud. Got lots accomplished. He had his vision tested because he’s been having a hard time seeing both near and far…I keep teasing him because this has nothing to do with ALS…it’s just old age:) Poor guy…he gets so much grief from me. I think the lady that was helping us pick out glasses got upset with me. If you can imagine the selection the VA had to offer…it was very humorous! He also checked on the Tobi System (speaking) and we got a loaner manual wheelchair and we ordered his (should be here in 3 weeks). You never know when his automatic will poop out unexpectedly. It’s just nice to have that back-up. Thursday, we had appointments at CMC for an EKG, chest x-ray and a full physical. He passed with flying colors:) Needless to say, it’s been busy…but I can’t tell you how much I love spending my days with him. It’s amazing to be home with Maddie too and to be here when the boys get home from school!! That couples extra hours of family time are irreplaceable! Monday is his surgery. He’ll need to stay overnight a day or two. I’ll be staying in the “cot” next to him. They say it should take about a week to heal, but again…we are all so thankful he decided to go thru with it. Also, we broke ground for the addition! The house was just rumbling! They took a break on Friday due to the weather and will be back at it full force on Monday (please help us pray for good weather). So excited to have a bathroom we can ensure he’s safe in. Those few steps get to be scary. Speaking of steps…just as a funny…I put one of those walking meters on him today. I don’t think he found it really funny, but I did. Not sure how many steps he put on, but it was cute:)

I hope this update finds everyone doing well. Please keep Kip in your thoughts and prayers on Monday. I’ll be sure to update again soon! Lots of love to all!

Love,
Kip, Shannon, Breana, Mitch, Jordan and Madison

“Never Give Up”

Hi Kip, Shannon & kids…
Just wanted to let you know all of you are in our hearts and many prayers are continuously being said. Will be thinking of you all day tomorrow as everything will be just fine. You’re one tough cookie Chris! Whenever I look at the pictures of the eagles I took at our old place in Stanchfield I think of you & how you love to be out there!! It is truly a snapshot of heaven up there! (Except for the mosquitos).. Way to go Mitch, watch for those deer. Love you guys …

Hi Kip and Shannon I’m so PROUD of you two!!!! You two sure know the meaning of love! Kip I promise tomorrow will go well. You are so brave, your my HERO!!!! I LOVE YOU BOTH SO MUCH! “Never Give Up”

Extra prayers being sent today! Love you guys tons and wish I was there. Call if anything is needed done at home or for the kids. Kerri Branson gave me a plaque with this prayer on it when we were in school, and it has been a favorite of mine ever since. This prayer is for you and your family: I said a prayer for you today and know God must have heard. I felt the answer in my heart Although he spoke no word! I didn’t ask for wealth or fame (I knew you wouldn’t mind). I asked him to send treasures of a far more lasting kind! I asked that he be near you at the start of each new day, to grant you health and blessings and friends to share your way! I asked for happiness for you in all things great and small. But it was for his loving care, I prayed the most of all!
Love you guys tons!!!
Dana

Kip and Shannon-
We wish you the best of luck with this difficult week! We are hoping for an easy procedure with a very fast recovery. Both of you need to get lots of rest and let everyone take care of you! Kip- I hope they give you lots of the “good” pain meds!

another frustrating day too overcome but the thing is i know you guys can do it. you 2 are so dang strong is unbelievible. I’m always praying for the best(you both deserve it). I love you guys so much!!!!!! good luck and stay strong..!!!!

kip and babe-
time to think of the good and not the bad.! i kno how freakin strong you both are, and i know you guys can overcome this one so stay strong and always know you are very loved and i am always praying for you both.
and kip i am so freakin proud of you for doing this..
i love you both very very very much.

remember you both are my hero’s.

Glad everything went well yesterday!!! I am praying for a speedy recovery!!! Love you all!!! “NEVER GIVE UP”

Hello there I a just wanted to let you know I was thinking and praying for you yesterday. I hope all went well and when you feel up for a little fish let me know. Calvin has been fishing up the wazoo and has actually became a good fishermen. We have plenty of fish !!! Love ya guys talk to you soon.

Hi guys I just wanted to tell you I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!!! Kip hang in there, its gonna be ok. Shan I’m so PROUD of you! You are right by Kips side. The love you two have is strong enough to get you threw this. “NEVER GIVE UP”

Hi Kip and Shannon-just thinking about you guys and just want you to know you are in our thoughts and prayers!!!! Love ya both!

Hey Kip, Shannon, and kids-
I’ll Love You For Forever.
I’ll Like You Always.
As Long as I’m Living,
My Family You’ll Be.
Love ya no matter what!
Don’t worry about a thing, cause every little things gonna be Alright!
Peace and Love Mon:
Billie Jo

LOVE YOU KIPPY!!!!

Hi Kip and Shannon, just sending our thoughts and prayers for you all. We think of you so often. Dave will try to stop and visit in the next couple weeks.

Hi Chris and Shannon & children:

Just want to say hi from Faith Lutheran Church in Blackduck. Keep on going and giving praise to God for who He is. God bless you more than you can imagine. (Ephesians 3:20-21)

Tom Reagan, pastor

Hello everyone,

Another week behind us! The dr’s said the procedure went perfectly, but I think it was a lot harder than both of us anticipated. That first day he was in a lot of pain…it was a rough night…he was up the whole night. He just wasn’t comfortable and you should’ve seen the rockin’ chair they gave me to sleep in:) Kip was in so much pain, that he wouldn’t let me slide in with him:) Darn him! Just kidding…but it was tough to see him in so much pain. To give you a visual picture…he now has a tube about 4 inches above his belly button. Right now we only use it to administer water and other liquids (aka prune juice…darn meds!). When he needs to use it, it will be there and ready though. We left the hospital late Tuesday to find a bunch of friends and family helping with our addition…we are so lucky for all our loved ones!! I tucked him in a bit early that night and the rest of the week following was kind of icky. He just wasn’t feeling well…the pain was getting the best of him. He’s not one to take pain meds, but he needed them. We just couldn’t figure out why it was still so painful, so I called HCMC yesterday (Sat) and they said it’s very abnormal. They wanted us to go to the emergency room or urgent care, but with my recent experience bringing Maddie there…I didn’t want him to be exposed to anything else being he just kicked his cold and his immune system is a bit weaker than before. We ended up calling our home nurse and she was more than happy to come over and check him out and wouldn’t you know it…it’s infected. It’s pretty gross. Poor guy! We ordered antibiotics, so we’re on our road to recovery now…but I’m not going to lie…it’s been a tough week. About an hour ago he said “I think the pain is going away”…so that’s great! Tomorrow’s a whole new day and a busy one at that. We should have the crew working very hard this week. They said the addition should be shingled by the end of this week. My job is to keep them fed and their thirst quenched:) We are so thankful…no words can explain. Kip is in such need of a bigger bathroom and they are really working hard to make that happen asap. We truly have an amazing group around us!

With all that said, things are good. He still sheds that cute smile! I hope he kicks the infection soon and is back to feeling better. I’m sorry I didn’t update sooner…I’ll be sure to keep the updates coming. And stop by anytime!

I hope this update finds everyone doing good!

Lots of love!

The Blomquist’s

“Never Give Up”

Holy CATS Kip and Shannon! I just read on here for the first time since the 20th as I have not been around a computer since we moved and the darn thing was not hooked all the way up til today, Sunday. It was so good to see you at our new house. I am SO glad you both could make it! We were so happy you came! I had no idea that you had the surgey til I just got my internet hooked up today. Sorry I was out of the loop! I hate not having a computer! I feel terrible I didn’t know and am sending lots of love in this email to make up for lost time. You both are so strong! You don’t let anything hold you back! I am so thankful and happy yet still surprised after reading this that you made it out to our new home. Thanks so much for coming and for the awesome picture frame and m&m’s. You didn’t have to do that. Your presence was our present! If you want to email me, I had to change my email address, it is horseychicklet@hotmail.com now. Just got it working today. Love you all and take care! Love, Krazy Kelly and Duane

Kip,Shannon and Kids
Hello I sure miss you guys! We have been pretty busy. We moved into the new house a couple weekend ago. I have been painting, and putting tile in the dinning room and kitchen. (Pictures to come) Nikisha is living with a friend in Isanti. That is not the greatest situation, but it is all she has right now. We are getting a new addition to our family on thursday. We will bring her over to meet the family! Well I really really miss you all!!! I need to get over to see the new addition on the house!
Love tootie

P.S. HAPPY GOLDEN BITHDAY TO JORDAN!!!!!

BIRTHDAY…OPPS FAST TYPING..

Hello Kip aka Chris to me. Sure hope you are having a good day! If I could I would send you some of our warm Arizona weather. This morning the quail families were up earlier and parading through our back yard. The bunnies are starting to emerge and scamper about, soon they will be fat and the coyotes will come racing down the arroyo by our house screaming like the Indians in an old coyboy western as they seek their evening meal. We have several roadrunners that come to visit too. Madera Canyon is not to far from us and great birding area. Folks come from all over the world to catch a glimpse of birds stopping by here on they way either south for the winter or north for the summer. We also see some in our back yard. Very beautful colored red bird recently.
Hello to Shannon and to all the family.
Hugs and kisses to all of you.
Love, Auntie Margaret & Phil

Hey Blomquist Family- Just sending our love!!!!
We love you so much and think of you often.
Love- Amy,Brad and Keegan Godfrey

Hi Kip and family,
I was giving NWEA tests yesterday at CIS and Jordan’s class came in. He said that you had a feeding tube now and seemed to be doing well. His teacher told me about this site so I wanted to be sure and say “hi” and that I have been thinking about you/your family since you were diagnosed over a year ago. Of course, I remember you as a tall, thin 5th grader who was a great kid and always nice to everyone (especially Tootie) and always had a smile for everyone too. Tootie always came to our room so she could walk home with you after school each day. You were a wonderful big brother and never complained but happy to see her each day.
I read through many of the postings of your progress/journey since being diagnosed with ALS. Life throws us some pretty strange and unwelcome curves but you have a wonderful wife, family and support system in place to help with the journey. That is a blessing, Chris, as you are well aware. I hope you stay strong and will keep you in my prayers and thoughts daily. Nancy King

just wanted to say hi chris

Hi honey I just want you to know I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!!!

Hi Kip. You’re on our minds as usual. Just checking in to say “hello”. Talk to you soon.

Jeremy and Tina

Hi Kip… how are you doing?

Alison and Karson.

Hey guys! Just wanted to let you know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers! We miss & love you all very much! Give Madison a kiss for me! Love, Angel

Dear Shannon & Kip,
Heidi has been sharing news with us about your incredible journey over the past months. Also we read in the newspaper about your deer hunting last fall. Way to go! We wanted you to know that you’ve been on our minds and in our prayers. Reading through the many postings, we can feel your amazing courage and perseverance! Keep on keepin’ on, your strength is an example for others to follow. Love, Sharon & Dennis

Kip, Shannon and Family -
I MISS you guys tons! Nick is very upset that we are not following through with the every other Thursday night dinners. (and Mitch, Jordan and Nick’s Friday morning trip to the bakery) What can I say, it’s a crazy world. We love you guys tons, and hope to visit soon. Please remember Judy and Don and the whole Anderson Family in your prayers. Tough stuff! Did Madison’t boots ever get clean from the mud day? Sending big hugs to all - God Bless, Love Dana

Hello everyone from the Blomquist’s!

Thank you so much for all the postings…it really made my day! As many of you know…we have this incredibly, amazing addition going on our house. We are so blessed and thankful for each day! It’s been a very busy place since my “retirement” (that’s my fun way of saying it!). With the help of the VA, Eddie Wilkinson (Liberty Exteriors) and so many great friends and family (big write up in the paper to follow)…we have a bathroom, bedroom and Kip’s very own personal room being worked on as I type. It’s consumed much of our time lately, but I just can’t tell you what a big smile it puts on Kip’s face to see so many people visit on a daily basis! After everyone leaves…he “strolls” out there to take a peak. The guys tell me not to let him out there so he can “inspect”…we all know how precise (aka: anal) Kip is. They joke with him and say “if the roof leaks put a plant under it”. He truly just goes out there to enjoy though! We will be so thankful when the bathroom is done…those legs of his have pretty much gotten their use:(

If you’ve been over lately, you’ve noticed the icky illness taking over Kip’s body and most recently…his speech. You can understand him in person, but the whole phone thing has pretty much gone out the window. He is still that happy-go-lucky guy we’ve all grown to love and it’s without a doubt he still has his “smart allic” ways…it’s just a lot slower in return:) He still loves to have a beer with the best of them and talk smart…as he would say!

Many people ask about his feeding tube. It’s there…but rarely used that this time. We just pretty much flush it on a daily basis and give his he water needs. That’s the hard part right now…liquids. He chokes more often because those muscles in his throat have gotten weaker (or as I say…are twitching too much). It’s very hard to see, but it’s amazing to learn what and how much we take advantage of the little things…such as swallowing. It’s just crazy to watch this icky disease progress, but Kip does such a darn good job at inspiring all of us.

I’m really enjoying staying home with Kip and the kids…although, it’s been a bit difficult at times to “adjust” and being so depended on (as well as dependent for him)…but it’s all learning process. I always tell him he’s a “pain in my a$$”…in a good way of course. I’m sure many of you know how dependent we become on our spouses (in a “healthy” situation). I just hate to go far…and that’s not always the healthiest thing either…for either of us. Like I said…it’s a learning process…does anyone have a book?!!!:) I’m always asking him what he wants to do…but there are only so many options. I just got back from 4-wheeling with Maddie (which is hard too b/c he’s usually right there with me).

One thing Kip has really taken a liking too is facebook. I don’t know if he would’ve enjoyed it previously, but it keeps him busy and he loves to talk with all his “friends”. I can hear him in the other room ticking away as we speak. I think I mentioned this before, but he has a little “circle magnet” on his forehead that enables his to type and he is fast! Most recently, he got the “Tobii” system and it hooks to his wheelchair and enables his to talk, change anything with any of the remotes for the T.V., email, play games…you name it…it’s just amazing. I now lie in bed (which is in the middle of our living room!!) and say “Babe, can you turn it up?”…it’s incredible and that way I don’t have to figure out which darn remote to use! I really don’t want him to use it until he has to though…I’d like for him to talk with his voice as long as he can:)But it’s such a good feeling to know we won’t have to guess what he’s saying:)

Kid Update: Breana is due with Caiah (baby girl) on May 30th. We just went to Britney Spears concert on Friday…Caiah’s 1st concert! It took a little adjustment to get used to the fact the she’s becoming a mom, but now we can’t wait to meet her! Mitch is now 16 (got my car…he deserves it!), joined tennis and is such a little Kip. He is just an amazing help! I sometimes feel really bad that he has to do so much in place of Kip, but (for the most part)…he does it with a big smile on his face (hey, he’s 16!). Jordan recently turned 11! We had a birthday party for him and I woke up at 2:30am and they were still awake!! I told them to put a movie in and then woke up again at 4:30 am to them as wild as could be! I just couldn’t believe! Later on I found out they had a little plan to try to stay up all night long (stinkers!!). That was after the movies, bowling, 4-wheeling, hot-tubing… I’m tired just typing it! I felt so bad for those boys (and their parents)…they’ll never forget it. Maddie just turned 17 months and Kip continuously tells me that I have no idea how lucky we are. She is so smiling and just loves to ride in between dad’s legs on his wheelchair (foot feet). She’s so curious and watches so much…especially the feeding tube routine. I always say “you are just learning too much at such a young age”. She even opens the door for dad now…he just loves it! Breana just videotaped her opening the door the other day!

Well, I think that’s about it for now…I hope this update finds everyone doing well! Stop in anytime!

Lots of love!

The Blomquist’s

“Never Give Up”

Hey Kip, Shannon and the Kiddos! I MISS you guys Very much! Like my Mom said, “It’s a Crazy World!” I need to come visit soon! I can’t wait for your guys completed addition! I am so happy for you guys! I might be stoppin up there sometime this week if everything goes ok with Gramma and everything…See you soon…I Love All of YOU!!! XoXoXooooXXXXooo!!!!!

We have been thinking of you guys and wondering how the addition is coming along. Thanks for posting periodic updates. They are fun and interesting to read. Have a happy and joyous Easter. Love you all,

Beth (& John, too)

Hi Honey Happy Happy Anniversary to you and Shannon!!!! Hope you have a great day, I LOVE YOU BOTH SO MUCH!!!!!!!!!! “Never Give UP”

Kip and Shannon-
I am so glad that you have your new addition almost finished! You have some great friends and family. I think of you two all the time. I can’t tell you how many times I have thought “If Kip and Shannon can do this, so can we.” Keep smiling, Kip!
-Stephanie

Hey you guys,
I kind of stumbled upon your page just because I was thinking of you today…..especially. My in-laws commented on the addition that was taking form on your house when I ran into Nancy at the grocery store. She told me how you were feeling a bit down about the feeding tube but the construction was keeping your mind very busy. Great for you guys. You know I can’t help but count all of you amoung the greatest of life lesson teachers. My Pastor always talks about living life “looking in the rear view mirror” and how stale and unfulfilling it will make you. You guys only look back on the love and good fortune you are blessed with. You are all focused on today and living for the moment. Tomorrow is not a promise and you demonstrate your commitment to each other for whatever moments you have. My mom always says (and I quote)….”Wake up in the morning and look at the cards the good-Lord dealt you today. Then ask the Lord how you can play those cards best for him.” You have played your cards well kids! Thank you for continuing to ‘teach’ me. God Bless-
Thinking and praying for you all-
Deanna Gusk

HI Blomquists! I hope you are all doing well. Miss you and think of you lots. Been super busy downtown for work and hardly home. I know I need to come see you and this addition. I will call you sometime in May on a weekend after I transfer to my new office in Coon Rapids. It has been hectic lately and lots of work changes. Miss you! Hugs and kisses! Krazy Kelly

PS- I got my wedding dress last weekend! SOrry- I am just a little excited and telling everybody!

I am so excited to hang you tonight! It’s been WAY too long! See you soon…..Rian

Hello,

Just checking in and sending hugs your way! Hope things are going well and that addition is done or close to being done. We will have to come visit one of these days….will have to wait til’ Coy is feeling well enough

Wishing you guys a great week!

Love,
Dawn Marie, Brandon, Coy, Kelsey and Jarret

P.S. Shannon, I am anxious to see all the pictures

Had a super GREAT time this weekend!!!!! Thank you guys soooo much!!! I am so jealous kip got in the hot tub and I wasn’t there to see!!! I glad he finally did!! hehehe… Just dropping a note to tell both of you that you are in my heart each and everyday!!!! Love you soooo much!!!!
“NEVER GIVE UP!!!”

Hello Kip & Shannon-
Wow…can’t believe all the activity you have been up to since we last saw each other. Can’t wait to get up your way and hang out…sorry I haven’t made the time recently. No excuses. Been thinking of you a lot. Hope you are all doing well and see you soon.

All my love,
Sonia

Hey! I just wanted to let you know that I am thinking of you extra today and that I am hoping for a “positive” day for you and Shannon. Easier said than done, I know. Love you both so much!

Rian

Hello to my favorite son-in-law, honey I just wanted to tell you I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!!!!!!!!! I am so PROUD of you and Shan!!!!!! You two are like that energie bunnie on T.V. you keep going and going!!!!! LOL! I am so amazed at how much fun you two have even with this ICKY disease als. Kip most people would feel sorry for themselves, but not you!!!!!! You two have a love that is AMAZING!!!!!!!! Shan you are such a positive person, I really think you are a angel sent from heaven!!!!!!! God is so working with you two!!!!! Just remember to always surround yourselves with POSITIVE people!!!!!!! The changes you two have made are remarkable!!!!!!! You two are so blessed!!!!!!!!!! I LOVE YOU BOTH SO MUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Ps. Rick you deserve a metal THANK YOU for all you do for Kip and Shan!!!!!!!! You are a TRUE friend!!!!!!!

Congratulations on the new addition to your family! She is absolutely adorable! Hope up North is treating you all well. Well, Miss Billie made the big move to Duluth on Friday. This will be quite an adjustment for all of us. It is definitely a positive thing, but yet alittle scarey. Nick and I drove by your place on Saturday on our way home and saw the railing up on the deck. Nick wanted to stop and check it out, I told him we would just wait until you guys get home and have alittle “Party on the Porch”! Hope your week is swell! Love each and everyone one of you lots and lots! Take Care and see you soon! Love Dana
p.s. On Friday, after Rick, his Dad, and brother left for Cambridge from Duluth - Nick, Billie and I went to the bank and grocery store and then back to her place, walking up the sidewalk, I could hear the neighbors music playing - BOB MARLEY - I’m taking that as a good sign - what do you think? No worries Mon’! Oh and you should see her room, your family is plastered on her walls, pictures of all of you - so dang cute! Especially the Father Daughter outing up icefishing!!!! AWWWWWWW! O.k. I will stop blubbering now, love ya guys!

Hi Chris, received your return email today and I’l be getting back to you. You might mention to your webmaster that if the comments section appeared in reverse chronolgical order it would be easir to use.
For now,
Hang in there from a fellow PALS.
Jim O’

Hi Kip and Shannon!! It was great to see you last night. Hope everything goes good today, Kip you look awesome and Shannon your always cute We will be stopping over soon to visit!!!! Angie is going to try and get us on a horse and ride on over (just like one of those western movies LOL!) Love you guys!!!!
Tracy

hi everybody its been along time sence i saw you guys , hay kip how you been i got all the emails from you i deffinly miss you sorry about my spelling i can,nt see to good were i,am writing this i,am waiting to fly home for my r&r writing this in the dark army tent in baf everybody is sleepimg but i hope to see all of you guys and angie too she hot . by y,all love ya joey pape

Yo! What’s up Blomquist fam! I miss you all! I hope all is Great with everyone of ya! I hope to see you all soon!
Love Love
Billie

Hi Chris & Shannon~
This is an amazing site that you all have created and it’s all because your such a great guy with an amazing wife! If there is anything I can do to help your family enjoy the outdoors to it’s fullest this summer please holler! I think you two know where to find me! Keep smiling friends!
Drew

Hi guys just wanted to say I LOVE YOU BOTH SO MUCH!!!!!!! I am so PROUD of both of you!!!!! Remember to always surround yourselves with POSITIVE people!!!!!!! Listen to Gods’ words he will carry you threw this!!!! You two are learning so much!!! You are my Hero’s!!!

long time since I got on this web site thinkig about you guys often just wanted to tell you that amy and I and keegan age doing fime enjoing the summer wanted to tell you hello. dave and deb (still living with us) say hello also

love and miss you

brad amy and mr keegs

It was great meeting you Shannon. Hope to met Chris soon. Glad to hear that the TWINS took extra good care of you guys…that was awesome! Take care~ Michelle and Dave

Hi Kip and Shannon! It’s been such a long time since we saw you guys. How is everyone? We think of you so often. I hope you are both still in good spirits and find lots to laugh about every day!

Chris, I am glad I got a chance to see you at Pellco last week! You are so surrounded by love that it is truly a blessing that some will never experiance. You are in my thoughts and Prayers. Kevin

Hi there!! This is a very long over do update!

We’re happy to say the addition is 98% complete and more than we could’ve ever asked for…it’s just amazing. It has made life so much easier for Kip. We recognized recently that he hasn’t been needing to take his daily nap and he is staying up quite later. We thought about it and realized it’s due to him not taking those extra steps to the old bathroom and having to stand in the shower (which got to be quite scary at the end there). Now he doesn’t have to take any more steps and gets to relax while he’s getting washed up. It’s more than amazing!! We are very blessed in that respect. We can’t thank everyone who contributed to this project enough…there’s just not enough words to express our thankfulness! As hard as things are and may get, this makes everyday so much easier. Sure I’d give anything for Kip to have a clean bill of health, but with the circumstances that have faced us, we are so grateful for so many and it’s just incredible to learn and see how many people care. Thank you. You help us keep plugging along…more than you know.

Kip is fully dependent at this stage and sure it gets hard at times, we eventually come back to our senses and realize it’s hard…not impossible! We continuously tell each how much we need to keep each other going…he pushes me and I push him. Everybody needs a little push, right?! I think the most difficult part right now is that his speech is escaping him. Some days you can understand him better than others, but he gets frustrated. We just have to slow down and listen and we eventually figure it out. I’ve learned it’s more beneficial to take the time and listen and do it his way vs. my way…especially since I’ve become the “handywoman” around the house. He’s a great teacher! I’ve amazed him & myself lots of times already…I told Kip I need to get a hot pink drill gun. He laughed and told me how much ours was, so I quickly scratched that off the Menards list:) He’s always trying to teach the boys something as well. Some of the stuff that he has them do is just ridiculous, but in the end you realize there was a learning lesson behind it that we can all appreciate it. It’s amazing. Their next project is building a picnic table…it’s nice they can hang out! You should see how much grief Mitch and Kip give each other…they’re always ripping on each other and trying to prove each other wrong. Mitchell is such a great kid…amazing! Kip is very particular and Mitch is even worse…if you can only imagine?!!

Our last visit to the ALS Clinic was not as we hoped, but o.k. His breathing was at 51% and his weight dropped 10 lbs. As soon as we got home, I immediately started feeding him like there was no tomorrow. I think he would eat less because it’s become harder to chew, but now he loves mac & cheese and backed potatoes with lots of butter and sour cream. That brought the weight almost back to normal in a matter of time!! In the morning he has a nutrition shake in his feeding tube. At first they weren’t settling as well as he hoped, but now I think he likes them and doesn’t get any more icky feelings from them. They’re high in calories and nutrition. We also just got something called “The Vest” …an airway clearing system. Kip sometimes has a difficulty coughing and this will help him shake it loose. That’s our newest thing…just had someone come to the house and train me on it. Other than that he’s still smiling as much as ever:)

We’ve had a great summer so far! 1st and foremost, we were blessed with a beautiful granddaughter! Caiah was 6 lbs 14 oz and 21 inches long! I know everyone is biased with baby’s looks when it comes to their own families, but I swear she is the cutest darn thing! She has so much hair! We just love her being around! We were lucky to be able to take a full week and enjoy a cabin at Thunder Lake. We’ve always gone with the Guimonts, Sanborn’s & Otte’s and we normally would’ve tented it, but the last two years we decided to get cabins and it was wonderful! The tradition usually consisted of a long weekend, but we decided to stay a full week and make more memories! Caiah took her 1st vacation at 4 days old!

We not only returned feeling refreshed, but also to this amazing deck! Kip just says it makes him want to live forever! He’s out there all the time…just scrolling around. Maddie hops on the feet of his wheelchair and they chase Bella (our dog) all around the deck. The two of them laugh until their tummy’s hurt! It’s so darn cute!
I should wrap this update up so I get some food in Kip’s tummy, but I wanted to at least get a little update out there and let our friends and family how were getting along and let you know we’re here…stop in! We love the company. I’m trying to get Kip out as much as possible…he loves Menards! You should see when we walk in…we have so many great people greeting us and asking how they can help. I tell him it’s a bad sign…we’re there too much, but it’s nice that he feels comfortable!

Just a couple other things: Mitch is busy with Tennis camp, Jordan just finished Bible camp, Maddie has tot time (swim lessons)…she is also in the middle of potty training! She’s went on the toilet “big girl chair” four times already today, Maddie was also in the kiddie parade for the Rodeo days (Auntie Melinda made her a very cute outfit), we just had a very nice visit at Pellco and got to see all our friends at Kip’s old job, we also had a very nice surprise from Kip’s buddy that he was in the Navy with (Ted, Shalena, Fin & Jack stayed with us for the 4th of July weekend), we got to visit with the Guimont’s/Prickett’s for their family reunion, Grandma & Grandma Blomquist are coming to visit us on the 28th…we look forward to them coming…

I think I could go on and on, but it’s just an idea of what we’ve been up to. I’m always kicking Kip in the butt:) I think he gets frustrated with me making plans all the time, but he always says how much he enjoys himself on the way home…as he’s smiling from ear to ear. I love seeing it!

As always, we welcome friends and family! Come see us!

Love, The Blomquist’s

(Kip, Shannon, Breana, Mitch, Jordan & Madison)

It has been such a long time since I checked in with you. So glad you are all having such a nice summer. Can’t believe you are grandparents. How exciting!

I am so glad you are surrounded by so many friends and family. What a blessing.

I think you often.

-Molly

HI Blomquists! I am so glad you posted so I could hear what you have been up to. You have had a busier summer than us, holy cats! Good for you. We have started planning the wedding and finally got a date. It will be June 26th of 2010 at the fair grounds. Finally are getting things set in place. It was good to see you at the Rodeo days parade. I bet you are so happy to have your addition, it sounds awesome! SOrry we could not come over after the parade, we had Marissa and she needed to go home to bed- she was tired. I think of you every day and am glad to hear you are all well. Our family hopes to all be able to go to the walk again, I work some Saturdays with my new stupid position this year and hope to be able to come. If I can’t Duane and Marissa said they would go, and of course I will meet up with you all later on since I would not get home til early evening. Love you all- take care! Love Krazy Kelly

Don’t forget to sign up for the Walk to Defeat ALS. For those of you who have deleted your informational e-mail or did not receive it, let me know & I’ll forward you an invite! Or, if you can’t make, donations are of course always appreciated. Log onto alsa.org to sign up with Team Blomquist or to make a donation on behalf of Team Blomquist. The walk is Saturday, Sept. 19th in St. Cloud. Registration is from 9-10am and the 2 mile walk will commence at 10am. We did an AWESOME job raising money in support of the ALS Association last year. So awesome that Team Blomquist received (2) awards at the walk commencement ceremony earlier this summer: Most Team Members AND most money raised at the St. Cloud Walk. Let’s do it again, shall we?

Go Team Blomquist!
Rian Schermerhorn

Just one thing to say Rian…….. GO TEAM BLOOMQUIST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Kip we all love you so much!!!!

OK so maybe it’s a little to early to be typing……Team Blomquist

Hi guys,

Just wanted to send a quick note saying hello. We think about you often and want you to know we’re wishing you all the best every day. We see the ups and downs with Steph and John and know it’s likely the same for you. It’s great to read here that you’ve had a memorable summer. Hard to believe it was just a year ago we were floating down the river together!!! Hope to see you guys sometime soon.

Take care,
Kim (and Nathan) of the Miller/Vleck clan

Hello to All!

It’s been a couple of interesting weeks, but we’re back on track! It all started when Kip’s Tobii (communication device) crashed. It’s like his very own laptop that mounts to his chair and he not only can communicate, but we have all the TV remotes programmed on there so he can change the channel, volume…you name it. He also has internet/email access so it’s pretty handy to have around. Although he’ll use it more in the future for speaking, his uses mostly for the TV! If you can only imagine how great it was for me when he had no say about what we watch!! He wasn’t so happy though! When it initially crashed there were many tears. I called the company and they had me ship it back. Kip said “overnight it”, but they wanted $141 for that and I just couldn’t justify it. Isn’t that crazy?! We did two day!! I’m happy to say we received it back last week and he was as happy as the day we got married:) Maybe more!! Just kidding…but that gives you an idea of how important it is to him.

A couple of days after the Tobii crashed…the motor blew in his wheelchair. It was a double whammy for the poor guy. The boys and I had just gotten back from school clothes shopping and Kip kept saying “do you smell that?” We didn’t smell anything for a while and then all of a sudden we could all smell this burning smell. The poor guy had the smell following him everywhere he went. Not long after that it completely gave out. He was devastated. We moved him into his manual wheelchair and luckily Adam and Caiah (grandbaby) were over because Adam quickly mounted a new cigar holder on…gosh forbid he doesn’t have that:) It was actually quite cute though. I was glad Adam could do that for him.

Lastly, we’ve had some minor issues with our home health care…but our newest phone call from them indicated they can no longer administer anything into his feeding tube. Kip had come over to my side of the bed and he was sad. I think it just came at such a bad time, so it was harder. The thing is, Kip’s had his feeding tube since February and the aids have been doing it for all that time. I think the hard part was the routine they had in place…it was great. I now get up with them and administer them. I love the little break when they come in the mornings to shower and do physical therapy, but being they can’t do meds anymore, I have to get my rear out of bed and administer what he needs. After all that BS (nicely put)…truly, things are getting back on track.

We just got back from Blackduck. It was opening bear hunting, so Kip was ecstatic to get up there and hang out with the guys…and his wonderful wife:) I stand by a lot more to reiterate what he says. We had a very exciting week and Kip slept great at the cabin. I brought nine pillows…you should’ve seen the big black construction bag hanging off the back of the trailer!! Yep…that’s just our pillows! There was much success and even Alexa (our niece) got a bear! She was so excited and I was glad we were there for that!

“Never Give Up”…that stem cell research is right around corner! I’m even more hopeful after watching the Jerry Lewis telethon!! My mom has MADE me watch it all these years (all night long!!) and although it’s always focused on muscle dystrophy, this year there were a lot of our ALS families on there (they’re both neuromuscular). It was very emotional, but very uplifting as well. It’s crazy to think that after all these years of watching it, it would relate.

We owe so much thanks to so many…for so much! Thank you! Our parents…Thank you (although I know Grandma Nancy can’t read this!). My parents and his parents are up here all the time…we are very lucky in that respect. My Mom & Dad even came up yesterday morning and made us omelets!! Can you believe that jazz?!! We are very thankful. Times are tough…no lie, but it always seems when things get “impossible”…everything works out.

Love to all! The Blomquist’s

p.s. Just heard Kip scroll by…he’s off to get showered up! I’m sure he’s SO excited to see Trish (Home health aide) this morning after all these days of me getting him up!!!

I also just put Jordan on the bus a little while ago…you should’ve seen me with my video camera and camera…he kept saying “o.k., go…the bus is coming”. He’s lucky I didn’t stand out there with a big sign saying “I love you Jordan”.

I forgot to mention the ALS Walk!!

We had a good turnout at the car wash/bake sale two weeks ago. We raised $352. It was a little chilly, but we had a great, energetic team out there! Thanks to all who helped and contributed baked goods! And the bloody Mary’s afterwards didn’t hurt a bit!!

The Walk is Sept 19th in St. Cloud. It’s a short walk!! We would love to see so many out there…helping us fight this fight! It’s not an easy one, but it sure does help seeing so many loved ones. It would make those big dimples of Kip’s shine through too!

If you’d like to help us reach our goal…see Rian’s instructions above:) Can you say “Lazy”

Love to all!

“Never Give Up”

Come help us celebrate!

We are having a get together on Sept 26th @ 4:00pm. We have been so blessed in respect to friends and family and we wanted to have everyone over before it gets cold…that cold is so harsh on Kip’s poor body!! It’s just amazing the people we have in our lives…from daily visits, to helping with the addition, to just sending us a little email…we are very lucky to have so many that care so much.

Kip is still that amazing person that we all loved to have a beer (or Bacardi Limon!!) with and we wanted to take a Saturday out and hang out! We hope you can make it! It will be a great night! It’s been a while since we’ve hung out at the Blomquist’s! You should see how excited Kip is!

Lots of love!

Shannon

“Never Give Up”

Happy Happy Birthay Shannon!I LOVE you guys so much!!!

Hi Guys!
Just noticed that your ALS walk is tomorrow….Hope you have a great turn-out and beautiful weather. We are doing the Mpls walk next Saturday and are getting geared up for it!
Thanks for all the updates…haven’t seen you in a LONG time, but think of you often!
Blessings,
Amy & Paul

Happy Rainy October 1st!
Just wanted to say Thank you very much for the nice party last Saturday! The weather was gorgeous, the food was Awesome and the Company couldn’t get any better! Love you guys lots!
Dana

Hey guys! I had a blast at your party last week! It was soo much fun! You couldn’t have picked a better day to have it

Love you guys-always will!

Take care,
Marissa <3

Hey guys just wanted to tell you I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!! I’m so PROUD of you two!! “NEVER GIVE UP” You are my HEROS!!!

We had a blast at your house at your party and was glad we saw you 2 weekends in a row at the walk and your house the next weekend! You had me rolling in laughter when all of us were up on the deck joking around! You keep such good company around! Fun was had by all for sure! We need to get together more often- I know we have been super busy with the wedding planning and that my work schedule sux, but let me know any time you are up for some company! Love Love Love you! ALways- Krazy Kelly and Duane

Kip and Shannon-
How is everyone doing? I feel bad that we can’t manage to get together more often. We had hoped to make it to your party but it was the day of the Minneapolis ALS walk. Everyone who came into town stuck around for the evening, so we had a get together of our own at our place. It ended up being the last nice day of the season so I’m sure you had a great party, too! We still think of you often.

Hello there!

As I type, I am laying in a recliner watching Kip undergo a sleep study. At his last appointment they really recommended it. It will help him feel more rested during the day and even if he needs to take a breather during the day we can put it on him. He’s never been a hard sleeper, so I’m hoping after tonight he gets up and starts dancing around this god awful room!! It could happen! :] I made him wear a mask coming into HCMC…he was not very happy with me. Better to be safe than sorry…too much icky stuff going around.

A real quick update about his last quarterly at the ALS clinic. We had it Thursday and it wasn’t good news, but I guess expected. His breathing is at 40% (when he was 1st diagnosed it was 106% and his last appt was 51%). He also had lost 8 lbs from his last appt. They don’t like to see that happen. It seems like he’s always eating…maybe it’s the neglect of beer…maybe I should try to administer a few of those down his feeding tube everyday…that could be our answer!! I’ll have to find out the legalities of that!!

Other than that, we had two amazing parties! Our 1st was to walk at the ALS walk in Honor of Kip…it turned out great! Thank you to everyone who came to cheer him on. I think he’ll need a lot of during the icky cold months. He’s not looking forward to winter at all, but he loves being home enjoying the house. He really doesn’t have to leave the house for anything, but I’m always trying to kick him in the butt to get out and about. I win about 50% of the time…that’s pretty good!!

Our 2nd party was a big one that we hold near and dear to our hearts. It was a big Thank you to so many that were out at our house helping us build this amazing addition so Kip can scoot and maneuver around like a champ. He is just so darn happy for what so many did for us…things are so much easier and anything done easier in a wheelchair is a blessing! We talk about it all the time…just how lucky we are…in that respect if you know what I mean. We can’t give thanks enough!

As you can tell things have been busy as always. The kids are doing good too. Breana is kicking it hard at college and being a great mom. Mitch is always plugging away around the house and busy watching football and hanging out with friends. He told me that when football is on, he’s off the clock. I asked him when we’ll ever see him…football is always on! We really enjoy watching how much he loves it though. Jordan even tagged along with Mitch to his 1st Friday night football game. After the game he literally passed out on the couch…sitting up. He’s not quite as used to running as his big brother is. Maddie turns 2 on November 1st…what a journey it’s been. She is quite the entertainer for dad! She knows our routine inside and out. She’s with Mother Goose tonight (aka Vicki…who used to care for her when we were working). She was ecstatic to see her and the boys!

Off to bed I go! Kip is doing great! He’s not snoring, breathing hard or anything. Just sleeping.

Lots of love to everyone!

Love, The Blomquist’s

“Never Give Up”

Hi Kip and Shannon- Just saw the new message. Hope the sleep study went well. Love you! Krazy Kelly

Hello again!

Another successful Halloween party to put into memories! It’s so funny because I find myself saying “my favorite part is…” and then it turns out to be everything that takes place. The actual pumpkin carving itself, the hayride, the piñata…it’s all so much fun! Thank you to so many…Dana for helping me keep my head above water (it always helps to have someone borrow you their arm floaties!!). She had come up the night before the party and early the day of the party and also a big thank you to Brian for driving the tractor. That’s just one thing I was a little skeptical doing…I don’t think I would even know how to start the darn thing! That’s usually Kip’s job and I can’t thank everyone who helps fill that role…I know it’s minor (yeah right!!). As stinky as we find our situation, I’m very thankful for Kip still being by my side…guiding me through. His speech is escaping him, but he is still a wealth of information. If you’d like to make an appointment, just let me know:) No but truly, we all know what I mean:)

He’s still plugging away and we love to see it! I have a cute/funny to share…I needed to turn the heater on in the garage for the season and I was so scared to jump up on the work bench, hit the pilot light and light the torch up. He of course reassured me things would be o.k. We’ll, as I lit it…all the spider webs, bugs…you name it started to flame up. I thought we were going to blow!! I then went to get the camera and took a picture of the inside (b/c he can’t see it). Little did I know, he would take those pictures, write up instructions and send it to me. He told me to store it in a file for future use. He’s amazing! I thought many of you would get a kick out of that…I know I did! Thanks Babe!
We had great news after the sleep study! We had gone to our consultation afterwards and it was with the doctor and three male interns…I don’t think we ever get just one doctor anymore…everyone wants to learn and research. It makes us feel good we can help in that area. The doctor came in and said “good news, your sleep study went great”. It appears Kip doesn’t have any difficulties sleeping, no struggling breathing, no snoring…it was a good report. They said it was up to us if we still wanted a bi-pap machine though and I said “yes”. If it comes to the point where Kip needs a little more air, we can even put it on him during the day. They agreed.

We have a busy week ahead of us! Family pics (I can get a jump start on Christmas cards!!…still don’t be surprised if they’re late though!), Kip has a VA appt in St. Cloud (which turns into an all day thingy). His doctor resigned, so we’re off to meet our new one. And then his wheelchair is getting fixed Friday. The actuator is going out (makes the wheelchair go up and down). It will be a relief to have that in tip top shape.
Kip’s napping now…as well as Maddie. We all had left over chili for lunch, so as soon as they had full tummies it was off to take a nap. I tried to wean him outside today, but I think he was afraid it was a wee-bit too cold. Chicken!:) We had gotten this heater that I need to set up. It’s a smaller one so it’s just perfect for his level. I hope we can get some use out of it.

Now it’s time to get ready for opening deer hunting. I was very excited to hear that he wanted to make the trip to Blackduck. Although he can no longer hunt, he’s very happy with the time he’s had in the stand. He’s always been very lucky in that area…I suppose its skill too:) He’ll get to see what other trophy’s the guys bring in and get to join in with the bs’ing that takes place there! Hopefully Mitch can show up Dad too!

Kid Update: Breana got her 1st apartment with Adam & Caiah! It sure brings a lot of “happy” tears to Dad to see her getting all grown up. Mitch has been hanging out with his friend Brittni…who we just adore. Although I tease that I’m going to dress up in my worst pj’s and rat my hair when she comes over so she wonders what kind of family he has (I don’t ever want him to leave us!!). Jordan is sick today…and tomorrow (they want the kids to stay out of school for at least two days when they come down with something right now). Poor guy! He’s got a bit of fever and cough. Maddie turns two on Sunday…time flies, doesn’t it?! There are no words to thank the kids for all their help…they’re amazing!

Before I forget, if you can say an extra prayer for one of our ALS families that just lost the battle. His name was Danny (about Kip’s age) and I’ve become very fond of his mom, Georgie, had taken care of him during his fight. It’s never easy to lose a loved one, but she’s been an inspiration to me. Lots of love to Georgie, Danny and their family.
As always, thank you to so many of you for making everyday special. Stop in and see us!

Lots of love,

The Blomquist’s
(Kip, Shannon, Breana, Mitch, Jordan, Maddie and our granddaughter…Caiah)

“Never Give Up”

Hello Blomquists!
Just wanted to send a note to say I’m thinking about you all each and every day and missing you all. Hoping to the Good Lord, that Madison is feeling better really, really soon! Poor kiddo! Hope your Up North weekend was good. My parents and I are bottling the grape wine we have made this weekend, I will bring up a bottle and see what you think. Plum wine is next on the agenda. Love and Hugs to all,
See you very soon,
Your friend, Dana

Hey guys…
I’m going to have to make it over soon I have alot of hunting stories to share with you Kip! Glad to hear that you enjoyed blackduck and that maddie is feeling better.
Love ya LOTS XOXOXOXOXO
Ang

Hope the casino was good to you!!! : )

Oops….that previous message is from me. Love you!

Kip- hope you have a great Thanksgiving with all of the family. Eat all your favorite foods
We will come up sometime next week again and hang out.
I am thankful to have you and Shannon in our lives.
We love you so much!
Amy, Brad and Keegan

Hi Blomquists! Hope all is well with you and that you had a fabulous Thanksgiving! Sorry we could not make the Halloween Party. SOunds like I missed a wonderful time!!!! I had the H1N1 at that time which then turned into puemonia and was out of commission for 2 weeks!!! Couldn’t do anything or go anywhere, but I am so thankful that Little Marissa and Duane did not catch it from me. Let us kno when you are up for company! We miss you!

Love Krazy Kelly

Hello there!

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving!!

We had Grandma & Grandpa Blomquist stay with us for a little over a week and Grandma and my dad completely whipped up Turkey dinner. It was great! We had a full house…and full tummies by the end of the day! Even for about three days after that, Kip had turkey dinner for two meals a day…he loved it! We have to chop up everything for him nowadays, but he can still enjoy many foods.

Before Thanksgiving, we had a couple of busy weeks. It was actually really nice to have a “plan” everyday. We had alot of fun…alot of road trips:) Whether it was just to the Doctor or our date to the casino…it was great! It’s always so nice to see those big dimples shining thru…don’t get me wrong…he can be a big pain in the butt too:)

We had gone and met with the third dr. he was assigned to at the VA…actually a nurse practitioner, but she completely whipped things into shape for us. I had been trying to call them in regards to the bi-pap and never had any luck. She had us going to Repertory Therapy right after our appointment with her and we came home with one that day. We also asked about a suction thingy and I believe it’s sitting on the counter now. Something came fed-ex today and I never got around to opening it. And then at 11am this morning, we had a consult on a “cough assist”. It’s pretty neat and I think it will help Kip so much. Lately, he’s had quite a few cough episodes. I think he may have a little cold, but I’m trying my best to keep the ickies away! He was very lucky to not come down with anything when Jordan and Maddie were down and out. Poor kiddos!

We have been very busy with Kip’s “to do” lists. The last one had a title on it “Shannon’s someday to dolist”…nice ha?! What a bully! Just because I was over about 10k on my oil change and we have no water pressure doesn’t mean it’s a priority:) Just kidding babe! I even ran to John Deere today and read exactly what his email said to the guy…he laughed. He had no idea that Kip is paralyzed, so the associate probably thought I had a very precise husband!!! I love that Kip’s mind is still going strong.

He still takes so much pride in accomplishments…it just amazes me. I feel like I already have an angel by my side:)I always tell him that when and if his time does come to travel to that big blue sky…he better not haunt me! I can totally see him already! A huge bird “accidentally” flying into my very clean windows (yeah right…but he’s starting to get bad eyes so they’d look clean to him:)! We have a lot of jokes that are not so nice, but keep us laughing!

We’ve also done some work in the new basement. Calvin Gustafson and his crew had put in a sunk pump for us…so no more water! and then a couple of friends from Liberty had come back and put the wood back up and then yesterday Rick insulated with my help. We were itchy! It looks great though! It should help the old heat bill:)

We’ll, I just wanted to send a little update being it had been so long and wish everyone a happy thanksgiving! Kip is sound asleep next to me! We watched a whole move, I fed him supper in bed, gave him his pills and he was out for the count! He was tired! I better close my eyes too!

Thanks for all your replies, cards, visits!

Lots of love from the Blomquist’s

“Never give Up

Hey guys!
Whenever I need inspiration I just read what you’ve been up to. I don’t think you realize what a blessing you are to all those who know you. I feel so priveledged to have been the voice singing at your wedding. What a beautiful couple you are. Anyway, Kip, keep on being a P.I.T.A.! Blessings to you and your family this Christmas. May Santa visit and bring PEACE to all of you. God Bless…
Deanna

Sending warm wishes to your family. Shannon, thanks for the updates. Merry Christmas.

Happy 39th Birthday Babe!

You are so very extra special!

Love you!

Shannon

p.s. I will update SOON! It’s gotten to be a little bit later than I hoped, but Kip is doing good. His neck hurt a little today, but nothing we can’t kick in the butt! He’s been keeping me busy more than anything. I love that he wants to keep getting out and about! He’s amazing.

I’m off to snuggle with him! Love to all!

“Never Give Up”

Just stoppin by to say I love you two soooo much!!! Can’t wait for Christmas!!! We may all be snowed in together?? YEAH!!!!!

LOVE U!!!!

Just wanting to say Hi and Hope you all had a very Merry Christmas!! And cheers to a Happy New Year! Our New Years is going to be a Mexican Feista–Ole’!!

Love,
Jean

Hello from the Blomquist’s!

Happy New Year to everyone!

We had a wonderful Christmas, New Years…everything went very smoothly. We had the traditional Christmas Eve here with both our sides of the family and then woke up to the kids Christmas morning chomping at the bit to see what Santa had brought them! It was really cute because Breana and I had decided to put the Christmas tree in Kip’s room this year (new addition), so it made it very easy for all of them to gather around our bed and open their presents! Caiah (grandbaby) even sat on the bed and ripped open her presents! It was pretty extra special for Kip. We are so lucky to have such amazing rug rats! That makes life special every day.

We then asked if we could host the Graham Christmas party here on the 26th so Kip could be free to rome throughout in his wheelchair. He loved it and so did all of us! I don’t know if we could’ve asked for a more special holiday season. It was busy, but it was GREAT!

We brought the New Year in at the Anderson’s. We didn’t really anticipate going anywhere, but I had asked him at about 9pm if he wanted to head over there…so we loaded up. It was extra special too. On the way home Kip was thanking me…and I of course, was thanking him. Isn’t unbelievable how fast the holidays go by?! It just amazes me and from what I hear…it only goes fast the older you get. I hope that’s a myth!!

We just celebrated Mitchell’s 17th birthday too! The whole time he thought he was getting a snow blower!! We had gone to Kip’s work (Pellco) Christmas party and Mitch came along with us. He kept asking what he was getting and I had secretly told a couple people what he was really getting…but they helped me with leading him on about the snow blower. He even told me “I’ll be so pissed off if I get a snow blower” and he doesn’t swear around us. It was hilarious. Needless to say, he didn’t get a snow blower. He got a new cell phone. He was thrilled! He deserves everything and more.

Now it’s on to celebrating Nancy’s 60th birthday (Kip’s mom) and Jim’s retirement (Kip’s step-dad)! Shhhh….it’s a surprise, but they have no access to email so I feel pretty safe about posting this:) I booked the American Legion basement the night of February 13th at 7pm. The more the merrier! They would loves to see familiar faces…it should be such a nice surprise. It’s getting kind of tricky though because Grandma Nancy knows about Grandpa’s retirement party, but she has no idea the surprise that is being pulled on her too. It should be fun! Always something to look forward to!

Kip is doing good. I think I’ve mentioned in previous updates that his speech is pretty much gone. Mitch and I can understand him, but it’s tough. You can tell his breathing is getting harder…which is hard to see, but he still loves his cigars so we know we’re not giving up! Obviously, there are tough days…and I’m sure many more ahead of us, but he is still a lot of fun to hang out with. I cherish these days…especially 40 degreers!! Keep ‘em coming! He is on his computer now (on the far side of the house!) and really enjoys it. It’s just amazing watching how fast he is at typing with his eyes. The bad part about it is he can still yell at me too…but I guess that can be a good thing too, right?! Everyone needs it from time to time. You would just laugh at the “to do” lists he has for me and the boys…same old Kip…which we love!

Kid Update: Breana is doing great! She started new classes. She’s thinking about cutting her hours a little bit b/c the classes are a wee-bit more difficult this term. She and Adam are enjoying their apartment…obviously they have good and bad days too, but they’re young yet:) Mitch…our 17 year old! It’s amazing how time flies. He is doing great….expensive, but great! He’s an amazing helper…just like dad! Jordan is doing great too. School has been going good for him. He is taking after his big brother. I just bought him a Vikings picture and he has to work 5 hours before January is up. I actually wanted to get it for Mitch because he LOVES football, but Jordan just moved into our old room and has a little bit of the Vikings theme going on. I figured it would be good responsibility too. Plus I wanted to darn picture:) Jordan is so great with Maddie. They spent many hours outside this weekend and built two wonderful snowmen. He is always putting her snowsuit on and taking it off. Maddie just loves it. She teaches us something new every day and puts smiles on our faces all the time. She just loves her big brothers and sister, but her whole life seems to revolve around Caiah nowadays. She just adores her! Caiah (grandbaby) is almost crawling. I got a picture of her doing a perfect push up. It’s so darn cute. She’s ready to take off.

I should go check on Kip and I haven’t heard Maddie in a while…oh, oh! I’m not going back to check my grammar…I hope it’s not too bad:)

Lots of love to all!

Love, The Blomquist’s

“Never Give Up”

Great update!!!! Just wanted to say we all love you!!!!!

JUST DROPPING BY TO SAY LOVE YOU VERY, VERY MUCH!!!

Hi Guys,

Just letting you know I appreciate the updates here and check in every week or two. I’m glad that you’re all doing so well. Little kids are a hoot!

Also, thanks for sharing Bella with us while we were puppy-sitting our son’s dog Ave’. They had a great time romping in the deep snow together.

Please let us know if we can be of any help or if you just want to chat. I watch this email account if that would be easier for Kip.

Best wishes,

John & Faith

Hi Kip and Shannon! It’s been a LONG time! I got your Christmas card in the mail - what a beautiful family!!! It’s hard to believe how much everyone has grown since we met you all on the cruise (not even sure what year that was!) and a new baby - she’s adorable!!
We had no idea what you guys have been going through! Our thoughts and prayers are with you! You guys have been on my mind a lot! I read the updates and the ones of your family! Nice kids! Two of our boys are about the same age as Mitch and Jordan. Our oldest son, Eric, is going to turn 16 on Feb. 6. He has his driving permit. It’s amazing how fast they grow up! Our middle son, Ryan, is 12. Our youngest son, Cole, is 9 and in the 3rd grade. I can relate when you said that Jordan is so good with Maddie, because that reminded me of Cole with our daughter, Lauren (who just turned 4 in November-same b-day month as Maddie!). She looks up to her brothers and it’s so fun to watch!
Kip, you’re a very strong person. It just amazes me when I read all the updates how strong you are and keep the humor. You and Shannon are a very special couple! I love the way you guys are still doing a lot of the things you love to do! We would love to hear from you! Send us an e-mail. God bless you and your family! Our prayers and thoughts are with you! NEVER GIVE UP!

Hoping that your day is going well. Thinking of, and loving you both!
Rian

Hello - Hello - Hello!
Thanks for the super fun Sunday! I think we all created quite a bit endorphins, good laughs, good company! Hoping this dang weather warms up soon. Great update Shannon! Hope your Friday is going Great! Sending all my love to the family,
Love Your friend,
Dana

Glad to hear all is well. SO sorry I missed the partylite party. I was so sad that I was unable to make it but I had my wisdom teeth emergency taken out and it has not going well. It is 2 weeks later and I am having trouble and missing work here and there as I have been ill and or in pain. Nothing too big of a deal and it will pass, but I was MAD that I had to miss coming to your home. I was looking so forward to seeing you all, and I was really sad I couldn’t come. I am so glad I logged on today and saw your wonderful update. I miss you tons and hope to see you soon. Love Krazy Kelly

Hello there!

I am happy to be writing this update! We had Kip’s quarterly at HCMC on Thursday and not that his breathing was what it once was, but it didn’t decrease much (he’s still at 40%). It seemed to be stable compared to the last quarterly…which was such great news. I did warn him as we were driving down that if he didn’t do well on his test, he wouldn’t be getting anymore cigars. I think that’s what motivated him to blow like hell:)

He also only lost 4 lbs (183). I thought it would be a lot more because it seems like I can “throw” him around a lot easier…but I could be just really strong too:) Just kidding, but I was very happy it wasn’t more than that…we can make up those 4 lbs with extra brownies (which he LOVES)! I told him he can’t lose any more weight…he’s perfect.

The doctors said a red flag could be thrown in at anytime (if he were to get sick or something), but they were very happy to see his breathing stabilized, he had good strength and most of all, he looked as cute as a button!

Other than that, we didn’t learn anything new. I think we’re set in the equipment area for now. We just love seeing everyone at HCMC…and they love Kip. Although his voice is leaving him, he’s still a smart allic!! Breana came down with us too…we had a very good day. It was very extra special that she could make the trip with us. I wish the boys could’ve come too, but I didn’t want to take them out of school. Maddie went with Auntie Tiff, Auntie Cassie and Grandma Sue.

After we dropped Breana off at her apartment, we got home and he wanted me to drive in back (twice-our neighbors probably thought we were crazy…going for a spin in our driveway!!). We looked around and he said “I’m happy, are you happy?” I said “I’m happy”. It’s was one happy moment. He also said “I did good today”. I said “you sure did”. He’s so darn cute! That will be a life long memory:)

We just got approved for more hours of care too. I hate to give up some time with Kip, but it’s so great to have the help. We’re trying to figure it out so they can feed him one meal a day. It’s not hard, just repetitive and that gets a wee-bit wearing sometimes. As I type, there are two girls here helping him get ready for the day. One is in training. I hope Kip’s not too hard on them:) We just adore the girls. They help the heart more than they know.

Kip has a few appt’s with the VA coming up soon…a check-up to meet his new doctor, a dentist appt, an eye appt (he’s getting old) and at the end of the month, we’re having his feeding tube changed. That’s just a small procedure, but I don’t think he’s looking forward to it very much. If you recall, it was very hard for him to take the leap and actually get the feeding tube placed:)

Other than that, things are going good. We have Grandpa Galin & Grandma Pat coming to stay with us for the next two days. It’s really snowing out there, so I’m sure they’re trip down will be a little bit slower…but gosh darn it, it’s beautiful! I’m not much for snow, but it looks pretty:)

Mitch, Jordan, Mike and Maddie all took Kip out for a Rhino ride on Sunday…he had a blast. He said Mitch drove a little faster than he would’ve liked because he didn’t get to enjoy the scenery as much, but he LOVED it. He had been chomping at the bit to get out there for a couple weeks now. It’s great to see he’s still so motivated.

Lots of love to all and I hope everyone is doing well!

Love,

The Blomquist’s

Kip, Shannon, Breana, Mitch, Jordan & Madison

“Never Give Up”

p.s. Happy Birthday Sonia!!

Thanks for the update and glad to hear that things are going well. We enjoyed spending some time with you guys over the past few weeks! Hope you have a great week.
Lots of Love-
Angie and Kelly

Very good update…so glad to hear that things have stabalized and that Kip is in good spirits

Lots of love,
Son

Glad to hear it was a good update and yes Kip you did well! We love you! Love Krazy Kelly Duane and Marissa

Hope you’re enjoying your stretching! Miss you!
Love ya,
Rian

It’s been a long time since we talked, but we think of you often! I hope things are going well for your family. I tried to e-mail Shannon, but your address must have changed. Let us know if you are up to meeting up with us some night in the near future!
John and Steph

Hello everyone!!

I’m so sorry it’s been so long! I’m so bad at “computer stuff” these days…especially since it’s summer!! We’ve been wonderfully busy! Kip definitely keeps us on our toes!! I wanted to pass on a little article that was done on Kip and his Tobii (communication device). We’re just so proud of him…you have no idea how many times I’ve looked at this site:) You may have to copy and paste the link below into your web browser. There’s a couple pictures on there too!!

http://www.tobiiati.com/corporate/usercase/meet_chris.aspx

Clinic update: Kip’s breathing was at 29% (upon diagnosis he was 106%). He’s not that same rambunctious guy physically, but his incredible zest for life is still there. He now can text…he loves it. If you text, send him a message…a NICE one:)!! Boys!!

We have baseball tournaments all weekend for Jordan. He just loves it and so do we. Kip comes to every game too. I’m off to do get Jordan a haircut and then we’re going to do concessions. I’m sorry to cut this so short. I feel like there is SO much to share.

Lots of love to all!

Shannon

“Never Give Up”

Hey there you 2. Shannon Good to see you at the parade. Glad all is well with you guys and that you are having fun this summer! We love you tons and think of you all the time! We have a wdding the day of your walk this year and if we are unable to attend the walk- we will for sure send a donation, however I am still hoping to some how get there and do all! Love Krazy Kelly and Duane Lillyblad