-not a good thing AT all with surgery just a few days away.
We are pushing OJ, sleep, fresh air, clean sheets, Lysol.
We can't give him anything at all.... so crossing our fingers this passes quickly so everything can go as planned this week.
I am instantly glad the doctor put me on a mild blood pressure pill because this is stressing me out.
Riley still isn't sleeping great at night. He climbed into bed with me around 5am, snuggled close and dozed until almost 10am. I was so glad he slept some more.
This would have been much easier before he was smart enough to know the date. Even without us ever reminding him, he knows.
We are thinking of keeping him out of school tomorrow and Tuesday to avoid any more germ exposure. Nana and Grampy would take him tomorrow and Jerry will be home on Tuesday.
Thinking healthy thoughts here!!
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Feeling Girly
I am feeling girly today! I had a great morning of Mommy/Daughter fun with Madeline. We primped, dressed alike.. kind of, did our hair and just enjoyed spending several hours together. Jerry had taken the boys to James' football Jamboree. So, girl day it was! It was really neat.
After nap time our new family room furniture arrived!!! WOOHOOO!! I love it!! It is a really cool sectional from Haverty's. The color is called cappuccino. It is so much bigger than the couch and chair we used to have. We will all be able to sit together now. Nice!!!
After the furniture came I was off, minus my sweet baby girl, for a pedicure with my friend Cathy. It was nice to sit and have some "girl" talk time... minus husbands and kids. Sometimes time spent with just one friend alone can be nice. My toenails are red. I am REALLY trying hard to be more feminine. Let me tell you.. this girl stuff is WORK! I got so out of practice the last several years while chasing around kids and working to bring them home. Now, is just a little time for me.
I don't know if I mentioned before that I went through a modified targeted selection process with the school district recently and was placed in the Technology Specialist pool. Fancy shmancy, huh? It is kind of nice to stretch my brain a little after doing the same thing for 18 years. I am going to be taking a class to prepare for the Media Specialist certification test starting next month, too. I am just thinking that if I decide to leave the classroom but continue to work for the school district, I need to have options.
So... counting down to surgery on Wednesday and praying that Riley will do well.
After nap time our new family room furniture arrived!!! WOOHOOO!! I love it!! It is a really cool sectional from Haverty's. The color is called cappuccino. It is so much bigger than the couch and chair we used to have. We will all be able to sit together now. Nice!!!
After the furniture came I was off, minus my sweet baby girl, for a pedicure with my friend Cathy. It was nice to sit and have some "girl" talk time... minus husbands and kids. Sometimes time spent with just one friend alone can be nice. My toenails are red. I am REALLY trying hard to be more feminine. Let me tell you.. this girl stuff is WORK! I got so out of practice the last several years while chasing around kids and working to bring them home. Now, is just a little time for me.
I don't know if I mentioned before that I went through a modified targeted selection process with the school district recently and was placed in the Technology Specialist pool. Fancy shmancy, huh? It is kind of nice to stretch my brain a little after doing the same thing for 18 years. I am going to be taking a class to prepare for the Media Specialist certification test starting next month, too. I am just thinking that if I decide to leave the classroom but continue to work for the school district, I need to have options.
So... counting down to surgery on Wednesday and praying that Riley will do well.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Middle School!!!
Today James had his first middle school shindig. I needed to breath into a paper bag the entire time. (Just kidding... but, boy was it stressful.) He got a form for class selection. Wow! He will be taking 6 classes. Three of the six will be Gifted. Gifted will be Language Arts, Science and Geography. He will also test for advanced Math. It is crazy! He will also be deciding what he wants to take for an elective next year. Who knows what he will select. I am going to let him choose since he will have such a big course load with everything else.
James was also nominated for a scholarship through the local counselors association. We will know in a month or two if he was selected. Heck! Even if he isn't selected, what an honor it is to be nominated! I am one proud Mama. It is amazing how this being who started out so small and fragile can grow to be so smart, strong and independent.
Last night James had his first football game for the Winter league. He sacked the quarterback. He was so excited. I think he had a difficult time falling asleep. The first words out of his mouth this morning were about football, too. It is so cute to see him get this excited.
This kid is just growing up too fast!
James was also nominated for a scholarship through the local counselors association. We will know in a month or two if he was selected. Heck! Even if he isn't selected, what an honor it is to be nominated! I am one proud Mama. It is amazing how this being who started out so small and fragile can grow to be so smart, strong and independent.
Last night James had his first football game for the Winter league. He sacked the quarterback. He was so excited. I think he had a difficult time falling asleep. The first words out of his mouth this morning were about football, too. It is so cute to see him get this excited.
This kid is just growing up too fast!
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Lottery Anyone?
I have read all of the stories about lottery winners falling from grace. I even watched bits and pieces of the True Hollywood Story... but I really wish I could win the lottery. I would be a fantastic stay-at-home mom. Heck, I would be a great homeschool mom. The only drawback of the homeschooling would be that I may not always be as patient as I would like to be when my lovely kiddos are pushing my buttons.
I think the time I am with my kids is glorious. I LOVE every minute. I enjoy listening to them talk to each other... and sometimes to themselves. I find joy in watching them read and write. I think they are just hilarious. All of my time spent at work is somehow shadowed by the fact that I can't wait to get home.
I think my truest calling in life is to be a mother... well, and wife. It is where I find my greatest peace and biggest rewards. My happiest moments are spent surrounded by my children, singing songs, discussing issues, addressing the life altering events of their days. It is so special having three children at such different points in their lives.
With James we are talking puberty, middle school, friends, sports. He has such diverse interests. He constantly has no less than two books he is reading at any given time. Being 11 is just so interesting.
Riley is 6 and in full kindergarten mode. He LOVES books. He is so active. He rides his bike, climbs and swings.. runs and rolls in the grass. He does, though, have a very tough outer shell to crack. He does not trust easily. You must earn this. It takes time but is so worth it. He is super quirky. He has an insight that can be startling at times. He remembers and cares.
Madeline is all fire. She is animated and dramatic. She will sing from sun up to sun down. She likes to be girly and tough all at once. Madeline has strong opinions. It is strange, at times, to see this in someone so young. When you meet Madeline, you just know she is going to be a strong woman one day.
I love how unique each of my children are. None resemble the other... yet there is this underlying love they each show for others. It is so nice. There is something about them that just resonates that they will be good people in life. They care.. they care big time.
I love being a mom.
I think the time I am with my kids is glorious. I LOVE every minute. I enjoy listening to them talk to each other... and sometimes to themselves. I find joy in watching them read and write. I think they are just hilarious. All of my time spent at work is somehow shadowed by the fact that I can't wait to get home.
I think my truest calling in life is to be a mother... well, and wife. It is where I find my greatest peace and biggest rewards. My happiest moments are spent surrounded by my children, singing songs, discussing issues, addressing the life altering events of their days. It is so special having three children at such different points in their lives.
With James we are talking puberty, middle school, friends, sports. He has such diverse interests. He constantly has no less than two books he is reading at any given time. Being 11 is just so interesting.
Riley is 6 and in full kindergarten mode. He LOVES books. He is so active. He rides his bike, climbs and swings.. runs and rolls in the grass. He does, though, have a very tough outer shell to crack. He does not trust easily. You must earn this. It takes time but is so worth it. He is super quirky. He has an insight that can be startling at times. He remembers and cares.
Madeline is all fire. She is animated and dramatic. She will sing from sun up to sun down. She likes to be girly and tough all at once. Madeline has strong opinions. It is strange, at times, to see this in someone so young. When you meet Madeline, you just know she is going to be a strong woman one day.
I love how unique each of my children are. None resemble the other... yet there is this underlying love they each show for others. It is so nice. There is something about them that just resonates that they will be good people in life. They care.. they care big time.
I love being a mom.
Monday, March 24, 2008
Getting Nervous
A week from Wednesday Riley will be going in to All Children's Hospital for his surgery. He is starting to ask a lot of questions. I think this is a good thing, but I am concerned that he is starting to stress over this. I know I am getting nervous, very nervous. He is just such a good boy who has faced countless struggles in his short life. I hate the idea of him facing challenges more than the "normal" kid. I, personally, think he has already fought so hard that it doesn't seem fair.
I know he will be in great hands with his surgeon. I know he will do great in the surgery. I know this is necessary. I just hate the thought of my baby hurting. I wish I could just run away with him and protect him from every hurt. I know that isn't possible... I just wish.
So, if you are a prayerful person, please keep Riley in your prayers. If you are not one to pray, then just send him good thoughts. It is so appreciated by one very nervous mother.
I know he will be in great hands with his surgeon. I know he will do great in the surgery. I know this is necessary. I just hate the thought of my baby hurting. I wish I could just run away with him and protect him from every hurt. I know that isn't possible... I just wish.
So, if you are a prayerful person, please keep Riley in your prayers. If you are not one to pray, then just send him good thoughts. It is so appreciated by one very nervous mother.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Happy Easter
I hope this day is full of joy and remembrance. We have had a wonderful family day.
The kids loved looking for eggs. They have spent countless hours going through baskets and trinkets galore. We have just really enjoyed family time.
Last night I made my mother's famous Easter omelette. We invited my parents over to enjoy it too. We had such a nice dinner. We talked and laughed and enjoyed family time. Our neighborhood hunt had to be cancelled due to rain. It was really for the best for us. We had more time to spend just being together. The kids colored eggs. James oversaw the entire spectacle. Riley used the cool wax crayon to write on the eggs. Madeline sat in awe trying to figure out how the eggs changed colors. It was so cute.
After dinner and egg coloring we sat as a family and enjoyed the movie Hairspray. I loved it! It really is my kind of flick. Madeline danced the night away. She really is more of a mash pit dancer than a graceful ballerina. She throws herself around with such verocity! What a fun night!
This morning we enjoyed time, just the five of us. It was nice. After all of the hunting and candy eating we watched the Bee Movie. Actually, I didn't watch it. I took advantage of the quiet and fell back to sleep for a hour. We ate a very light and early lunch and then watched Enchanted. Again, I loved it! It was so fun. We had to laugh when we realized James Marsden was in both Hairspray and Enchanted. He was great in both. We had such a nice time just snuggling together on the couch.
This afternoon we went to a huge Easter meal with my parents at their clubhouse. YIKES!! It was quite an extravaganza! Food and fun galore! After eating more than we should we headed back to Nana and Grampy's for a little basketball action. My parents are addicted to college basketball.
Now, we are home digesting the day. It really was just a nice day. No worries. No stress. No drama. Just family.... nothing better
The kids loved looking for eggs. They have spent countless hours going through baskets and trinkets galore. We have just really enjoyed family time.
Last night I made my mother's famous Easter omelette. We invited my parents over to enjoy it too. We had such a nice dinner. We talked and laughed and enjoyed family time. Our neighborhood hunt had to be cancelled due to rain. It was really for the best for us. We had more time to spend just being together. The kids colored eggs. James oversaw the entire spectacle. Riley used the cool wax crayon to write on the eggs. Madeline sat in awe trying to figure out how the eggs changed colors. It was so cute.
After dinner and egg coloring we sat as a family and enjoyed the movie Hairspray. I loved it! It really is my kind of flick. Madeline danced the night away. She really is more of a mash pit dancer than a graceful ballerina. She throws herself around with such verocity! What a fun night!
This morning we enjoyed time, just the five of us. It was nice. After all of the hunting and candy eating we watched the Bee Movie. Actually, I didn't watch it. I took advantage of the quiet and fell back to sleep for a hour. We ate a very light and early lunch and then watched Enchanted. Again, I loved it! It was so fun. We had to laugh when we realized James Marsden was in both Hairspray and Enchanted. He was great in both. We had such a nice time just snuggling together on the couch.
This afternoon we went to a huge Easter meal with my parents at their clubhouse. YIKES!! It was quite an extravaganza! Food and fun galore! After eating more than we should we headed back to Nana and Grampy's for a little basketball action. My parents are addicted to college basketball.
Now, we are home digesting the day. It really was just a nice day. No worries. No stress. No drama. Just family.... nothing better
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Little Update
State testing is done.
I still have not shopped for Easter.
My kids are a lot of fun. I love watching them play and laugh together.
I stunk it up big time at Bunco last night, but still had fun.
I am ready for Summer break.
I still have not shopped for Easter.
My kids are a lot of fun. I love watching them play and laugh together.
I stunk it up big time at Bunco last night, but still had fun.
I am ready for Summer break.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Jury Duty Scam
This has been verified by the FBI (their link is also included below). Please pass this on to everyone in your email address book. It is spreading fast so be prepared should you get this call. Most of us take those summonses for jury duty seriously y, but enough people skip out on their civic duty, that a new and ominous kind of fraud has surfaced.
The caller claims to be a jury coordinator. If you protest that you never received a summons for jury duty, the scammer asks you for your Social Security number and date of birth so he or she can verify the information and cancel the arrest warrant. Give out any of this information and bingo; your identity was just stolen.
The fraud has been reported so far in 11 states, including Oklahoma , Illinois , and Colorado . This (swindle) is particularly insidious because they use intimidation over the phone to try to bully people into giving information by pretending they are with the court system. The FBI and the federal court system have issued nationwide alerts on their web sites, warning con consumers about the fraud.
Check it out here: http://www.fbi.gov/page2/june06/jury_scams060206.htm
And here: http://www.snopes.com/crime/fraud/juryduty.asp
The caller claims to be a jury coordinator. If you protest that you never received a summons for jury duty, the scammer asks you for your Social Security number and date of birth so he or she can verify the information and cancel the arrest warrant. Give out any of this information and bingo; your identity was just stolen.
The fraud has been reported so far in 11 states, including Oklahoma , Illinois , and Colorado . This (swindle) is particularly insidious because they use intimidation over the phone to try to bully people into giving information by pretending they are with the court system. The FBI and the federal court system have issued nationwide alerts on their web sites, warning con consumers about the fraud.
Check it out here: http://www.fbi.gov/page2/june06/jury_scams060206.htm
And here: http://www.snopes.com/crime/fraud/juryduty.asp
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Thinking about James
I am a blogaholic. I love reading blogs. I was reading a blog I have followed for a while. The aautho is struggling with the realization that adding a child to their family was at a roadblock, a standstill. This family can not have biological children. They have one daughter adopted from China.. and the China road to adoption right now is not available to them. They had considered fostering to adopt, but that is now not going to happen either. This all got me thinking.
James is our biological child. We tried for 6 years to get pregnant on our own to no avail. We were both relatively healthy, young and neither side of our family had ever experienced fertility issues. People would tell us to relax and it would happen. They would say we were crazy to think of pursuing advice from a fertility specialist. They really didn't understand.
So, we began the round of medical visits. When we finally got to the fertility specialist tests were run. I will never forget the Dr. sitting us down and saying we had a 1 in 100 million chance of conceiving naturally. I was in shock. I was confused. I was also.. a little relieved. Strange, huh? It was somewhat comforting to know that something was actually wrong and it just wasn't that we weren't relaxing!! We spent a few days just talking... trying to figure out our next step. Against medical advice we decided to start with Intrauterine Insemination instead of IVF. I had a procedure done to check my tubes right before we started.. so all was clear on my end. Our first attempt with IUI worked. We got pregnant...against all odds. I ended up spending over 30 days in my first trimester on bedrest. It was tough. It was frustrating. I felt healthy, but my body just didn't like being pregnant.
The rest of the pregnancy was rather uneventful. I delivered a healthy 8 lb. 7oz son almost 3 weeks early.
So, a few years later we decided to try again. We did 4 IUI's - unsuccessful. We changed insurance carriers so we could try again. We then did 2 IUS's with heavy drugs. Lots of shots... not fun at all. I got pregnant in January of 2002. I had a tubal rupture in February of 2002.
Riley was born in January of 2002.
Life had a different plan for us. God needed to show us that pregnancy was not where are children were to come from. We had to have a BIG sign to show us that this was not our way.
So... biology worked for us... once. James is everything and more than we could have dreamed of. He is also, probably, the best big brother around. He has accepted his siblings with an open and loving heart.
This family I read about, struggling to add to their family, in some ways, reminds me of my family. Our struggles may be different but the desire to have children.. more children is the same. The frustration that this one act... an act done out of love... could be so difficult can be overwhelming.
I hope they find the peace we have found. I hope they find the open door waiting for them after this last one closed. We couldn't see the end of the tunnel, but found our way along the path to our family. The one that we were always meant to have.
James is our biological child. We tried for 6 years to get pregnant on our own to no avail. We were both relatively healthy, young and neither side of our family had ever experienced fertility issues. People would tell us to relax and it would happen. They would say we were crazy to think of pursuing advice from a fertility specialist. They really didn't understand.
So, we began the round of medical visits. When we finally got to the fertility specialist tests were run. I will never forget the Dr. sitting us down and saying we had a 1 in 100 million chance of conceiving naturally. I was in shock. I was confused. I was also.. a little relieved. Strange, huh? It was somewhat comforting to know that something was actually wrong and it just wasn't that we weren't relaxing!! We spent a few days just talking... trying to figure out our next step. Against medical advice we decided to start with Intrauterine Insemination instead of IVF. I had a procedure done to check my tubes right before we started.. so all was clear on my end. Our first attempt with IUI worked. We got pregnant...against all odds. I ended up spending over 30 days in my first trimester on bedrest. It was tough. It was frustrating. I felt healthy, but my body just didn't like being pregnant.
The rest of the pregnancy was rather uneventful. I delivered a healthy 8 lb. 7oz son almost 3 weeks early.
So, a few years later we decided to try again. We did 4 IUI's - unsuccessful. We changed insurance carriers so we could try again. We then did 2 IUS's with heavy drugs. Lots of shots... not fun at all. I got pregnant in January of 2002. I had a tubal rupture in February of 2002.
Riley was born in January of 2002.
Life had a different plan for us. God needed to show us that pregnancy was not where are children were to come from. We had to have a BIG sign to show us that this was not our way.
So... biology worked for us... once. James is everything and more than we could have dreamed of. He is also, probably, the best big brother around. He has accepted his siblings with an open and loving heart.
This family I read about, struggling to add to their family, in some ways, reminds me of my family. Our struggles may be different but the desire to have children.. more children is the same. The frustration that this one act... an act done out of love... could be so difficult can be overwhelming.
I hope they find the peace we have found. I hope they find the open door waiting for them after this last one closed. We couldn't see the end of the tunnel, but found our way along the path to our family. The one that we were always meant to have.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Happy Friday!!
I am doing the Happy Dance... you know... the one that Snoopy does as he jumps for joy. His little toes wiggling under him, head up and ears happy. It is FRIDAY! The first week of state testing is done. Madeline is on day two of the Great Diaper Denial. She is loving the free feeling of panties! Last night as I was getting ready to lay her down in her bed she took my face in her little, soft hands. Then she pulled our faces together, noses touching. She whispered softly the following into my face... "Morning Madeline PeePee Potty." She was making sure I understood that this diaper I had put on her for bed time was NOT staying. She was not happy about having to wear it to bed, but understood she had no choice. She also understood that wearing panties tomorrow was the choice she was making. What a big girl!
I love the weekends. I love spending time with my family. I love sleeping in. I love snuggling in the late morning with my kids... though Riley is really the big morning cuddler. I love standing outside, watching the kids play and chatting with my neighbors. It is just my favorite part of the week.
The hustle and bustle is still there on the weekends with birthday parties, practices, shopping and more... but doing those things with my family makes it so much easier. I think that I am very lucky. Jerry and I have been together now for 22 years... and we still love spending time together. We still make each other laugh. We still drive each other bonkers. We still enjoy being each others friend. I think, most of all, we LOVE being parents together. Our kids just mean the world to us. They are our greatest achievement.
I love the weekends. I love spending time with my family. I love sleeping in. I love snuggling in the late morning with my kids... though Riley is really the big morning cuddler. I love standing outside, watching the kids play and chatting with my neighbors. It is just my favorite part of the week.
The hustle and bustle is still there on the weekends with birthday parties, practices, shopping and more... but doing those things with my family makes it so much easier. I think that I am very lucky. Jerry and I have been together now for 22 years... and we still love spending time together. We still make each other laugh. We still drive each other bonkers. We still enjoy being each others friend. I think, most of all, we LOVE being parents together. Our kids just mean the world to us. They are our greatest achievement.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
The Sahara
Madeline spent the entire day.... including nap in her Elmo panties and stayed completly dry!!! YIPEE! I am so proud of her. She is strutting around knowing she is all that! I know we will have many accidents to come... but what a great start we are off to.
Yes, More Potty Talk
I have been taking deep, cleansing breaths all morning. Madeline's school wanted me to send her in panties today. They want to try no diapers except at nap time. This is more stressful for me than her!!! I was going to send her in a diaper and then let them change her when she got into her regular room. (She gets to school about 15 minutes before her teacher and goes to a different room first thing every morning.) She REFUSED to allow me to put the diaper on her. She made it clear that she was supposed to wear panties to school. So, she did. I sent two replacement pairs of panties and shorts. I am going to be thinking about her all day.... wondering how she is doing. This is my baby!!! How can she be ready to be potty trained???????? Okay.. more deep breaths. Does anyone have a paper bag I can borrow????
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Getting Busy
It is amazing how life can be so busy. As James gets older he gets busier. Right now he has things up every day after school. He also has a birthday party on Saturday. We have a family gathering with Jerry's family on Saturday, too. The following two Saturdays are already booked, too. Riley is begging to go back to gymnastics. I need to find another gym though. He is aging out of the gym he has gone to previously. They only allow boys through the age of 6. We need to find a quality, inexpensive gym with the correct aparatus for boys. (Yes, I am sure I spelled aparatus wrong, but the spell check isn't working right now.)
Oh, by the way, I forgot that Easter is right around the corner. I mean I knew it was coming but I have done NOTHING to prepare. We were also invited to participate in an egg hunt next Saturday, too. I just realized I haven't even responded to the invite. Oops.
We are smack dab in the middle of state testing. It is my least favorite time of the year. I really do not understand how a state can assess whether a student has learned a specific grade level curriculum when there are still 3 months remaining in the school year. (Don't even get me started on this one.) During this time some extremely smart person (sarcasm) decided it would also be a good time to teach the Human Growth and Development unit. -just not right How do I teach about puberty, etc after students have spent hours testing all morning. The last thing they are in the mood for is to learn about body changes and how a baby is made.
We spent about two hours outside yesterday afternoon working on the new playset and talking with neighbors. It was GORGEOUS outside. Madeline decided to try to eat some grass. Yummy! Of course she had eaten ice cream previously and refused to let me wipe her face. So... she looked quite lovely with pieces of grass and dirt stuck to her face. Very attractive. Riley decided to put dog poop on James' hand. That was a beautiful brotherly bonding moment. I was so proud. (heh!) James didn't pound him. His restraint was memorable.
I think the best thing of all is that my big time antibiotics left me with a sweet present just when my friend came to visit. I am one lucky gal!!
Okay.... that is enough rambling for now.
Ciao
Oh, by the way, I forgot that Easter is right around the corner. I mean I knew it was coming but I have done NOTHING to prepare. We were also invited to participate in an egg hunt next Saturday, too. I just realized I haven't even responded to the invite. Oops.
We are smack dab in the middle of state testing. It is my least favorite time of the year. I really do not understand how a state can assess whether a student has learned a specific grade level curriculum when there are still 3 months remaining in the school year. (Don't even get me started on this one.) During this time some extremely smart person (sarcasm) decided it would also be a good time to teach the Human Growth and Development unit. -just not right How do I teach about puberty, etc after students have spent hours testing all morning. The last thing they are in the mood for is to learn about body changes and how a baby is made.
We spent about two hours outside yesterday afternoon working on the new playset and talking with neighbors. It was GORGEOUS outside. Madeline decided to try to eat some grass. Yummy! Of course she had eaten ice cream previously and refused to let me wipe her face. So... she looked quite lovely with pieces of grass and dirt stuck to her face. Very attractive. Riley decided to put dog poop on James' hand. That was a beautiful brotherly bonding moment. I was so proud. (heh!) James didn't pound him. His restraint was memorable.
I think the best thing of all is that my big time antibiotics left me with a sweet present just when my friend came to visit. I am one lucky gal!!
Okay.... that is enough rambling for now.
Ciao
Monday, March 10, 2008
Big Step Forward
Madeline came inside from playing, went into the bathroom, disrobed... and... POOPED on the potty all by herself!!! WOOOHOO!!! Full on happy dance going on here! She didn't even tell anyone she had to go! She took off her shoes, socks, pants and Pull-Up, climbed up on the potty and went to the bathroom. When she was done she yelled for me and cried a little. I think she may have shocked herself! We called grandparents and aunts and uncles to share the good news and heap a boat load of praise.
PS
She stayed dry for 2 and a half hours after this and then... had diarrahea in undies and jeans. Mom wasn't home so Dad had the job of cleaning it all up. That is two great things in one day!!!!!!!!!!
PS
She stayed dry for 2 and a half hours after this and then... had diarrahea in undies and jeans. Mom wasn't home so Dad had the job of cleaning it all up. That is two great things in one day!!!!!!!!!!
Busy Weekend
We had a weekend filled with great ups and sad downs. It was one of those weekends that will not be soon forgotten. Let's start with some good stuff.
Riley and Madeline went to their friend Ava's second birthday party. The party was at a farm. What a blast! They brushed goats, petted sheep and then things got very different for the two of them. Riley held a baby chick. Madeline cried in fear. Riley looked with wonder at the HUGE potbelly pig. Madeline worried about the mud on her shoes. Riley ran around the coop with the chickens. Madeline pressed herself firmly against the fence unwilling to go in. Riley held a cute white bunny. Madeline climed up in to Mama's arms because she was having no interest in getting close to the bunny at all. Riley followed the geese and ducks around the fence. Madeline ran in fear from the tall birds making noises. Riley rode a horse for the first time. Madeline sat and ate three meatballs. We had an absolute blast!!
Later that night we pulled our fire pit around front to the driveway. There were about 30 of us from our neighboorhood out and about from 6:30 until about midnight. The kids played. The adults talked. It was such a great time. Every time one of these little soires is planned we always have a nice time. We are just very fortunate to have such amazing neighbors.
On Sunday we went to Home Depot and bought a kit for a big playset. It is going to be very cool! Jerry, my dad and our friend Allan got it started. It is going to be a project to assemble, but hours of fun will be had by the Reynolds' children this summer.
Now on to the sad news.... I have a very close friend... she is a sister from college who is struggling. I mean REALLY struggling. She had a bad break-up with her partner of six years a few months ago. Her father has been in and out of the hospital and nursing facilities non-stop the last three months. She has been making the 4 hour car trip every weekend to try to help her mother. She has struggled with depression for several years now. I never really thought about this too much since she has been going to a Dr. for 4 years and they have been trying to figure out the right meds. for her... but she really has had extreme highs and lows. Her highs are higher than I can imagine. Her lows.. are frightful lows. Recently she has been making some really questionable choices in relationships. Last Wednesday she was admitted to the hospital against her will. I didn't find out about it until Friday night. On Saturday after the birthday party I went to visit her. I spent the entire hour available visiting. While sitting there and talking to her... I realized that this is right where she needed to be. We talked. I was very honest with her. She told me some things she had done recently that were...hmmm... just not good. She is struggling. The Dr. has not put her on medicine that is usually used with bipolar patients. I think, if that is her diagnosis, it is probably spot on. She is terrified that this label is going to be placed on her. I think it may be her saving grace. I so want her to just find a nice, quiet normalcy to her life. I want her to find peace without thinking that means her life must be over.
I am not sure how to be the friend she needs right now without being completly honest with her. I won't play games. I won't baby her. I don't think that would be right or fair. She is an intelligent, kind and compassionate person who deserves all the love and honesty I can give her without disrespecting her by being less than honest.
So... that was the gist of my weekend. The good and the bad. The beauty and the beast.
Riley and Madeline went to their friend Ava's second birthday party. The party was at a farm. What a blast! They brushed goats, petted sheep and then things got very different for the two of them. Riley held a baby chick. Madeline cried in fear. Riley looked with wonder at the HUGE potbelly pig. Madeline worried about the mud on her shoes. Riley ran around the coop with the chickens. Madeline pressed herself firmly against the fence unwilling to go in. Riley held a cute white bunny. Madeline climed up in to Mama's arms because she was having no interest in getting close to the bunny at all. Riley followed the geese and ducks around the fence. Madeline ran in fear from the tall birds making noises. Riley rode a horse for the first time. Madeline sat and ate three meatballs. We had an absolute blast!!
Later that night we pulled our fire pit around front to the driveway. There were about 30 of us from our neighboorhood out and about from 6:30 until about midnight. The kids played. The adults talked. It was such a great time. Every time one of these little soires is planned we always have a nice time. We are just very fortunate to have such amazing neighbors.
On Sunday we went to Home Depot and bought a kit for a big playset. It is going to be very cool! Jerry, my dad and our friend Allan got it started. It is going to be a project to assemble, but hours of fun will be had by the Reynolds' children this summer.
Now on to the sad news.... I have a very close friend... she is a sister from college who is struggling. I mean REALLY struggling. She had a bad break-up with her partner of six years a few months ago. Her father has been in and out of the hospital and nursing facilities non-stop the last three months. She has been making the 4 hour car trip every weekend to try to help her mother. She has struggled with depression for several years now. I never really thought about this too much since she has been going to a Dr. for 4 years and they have been trying to figure out the right meds. for her... but she really has had extreme highs and lows. Her highs are higher than I can imagine. Her lows.. are frightful lows. Recently she has been making some really questionable choices in relationships. Last Wednesday she was admitted to the hospital against her will. I didn't find out about it until Friday night. On Saturday after the birthday party I went to visit her. I spent the entire hour available visiting. While sitting there and talking to her... I realized that this is right where she needed to be. We talked. I was very honest with her. She told me some things she had done recently that were...hmmm... just not good. She is struggling. The Dr. has not put her on medicine that is usually used with bipolar patients. I think, if that is her diagnosis, it is probably spot on. She is terrified that this label is going to be placed on her. I think it may be her saving grace. I so want her to just find a nice, quiet normalcy to her life. I want her to find peace without thinking that means her life must be over.
I am not sure how to be the friend she needs right now without being completly honest with her. I won't play games. I won't baby her. I don't think that would be right or fair. She is an intelligent, kind and compassionate person who deserves all the love and honesty I can give her without disrespecting her by being less than honest.
So... that was the gist of my weekend. The good and the bad. The beauty and the beast.
Friday, March 07, 2008
Cuteness
There are many things in life that are cute.... but my two year old daughter in pink Elmo panties, takes the cake. There is absolutely nothing cuter.
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
I Wonder
I was reading about this family who sent a letter to close family and friends regarding attachment practices they will be following upon bringing their daughter home from China. There is a TON of research on this topic. This family made the choices that were best for their family and decided to share it in a letter prior to bringing their baby home.
One of the recipients of the letter responded anon. with just truly hateful comments. The family was able to figure out who it was that sent the response. They are trying to decide where to head with this from here.
This scenario has caused me to really sit and think about many things.
We read and researched a lot about attachment and recommendations regarding how to handle introducing people into our children's lives upon returning home from China. We talked about what we would try to do.
You know... with both adoptions things were very different than we planned. We decided to be lead by our child instead of by research. Riley handled coming home very differently than Madeline. He was also significantly older.
I understand COMPLETELY the desire to prepare close friends and family for the possible scenarios. I have read the research. I have worried as a waiting parent about whether my children would bond with me... with us.
In the time that I have spent thinking about this I came to a few conclusions.
1. I am sooooo glad we never wrote a letter to family and friends. We didn't follow the plans we shared verbally since we took all of our cues from our children. Putting this in writing somehow feels to me like it ties you in to your plans no matter how you child reacts upon coming home.
2. Even though I have read the research, talked to the professionals, etc... I think I would have been very put off if I received a similar letter. I think I would have felt like the sender was treating me like I was an idiot who would physically force my presence on a child who was struggling. Heck, I won't hold a new born who is unhappy for long. This is not because I don't want to hold the crying baby, but know that the parents come first.
3. I don't think I would respond to a hateful response to a letter I sent, but just remove the person from my life. If someone was uncomfortable with what I wrote or shared, then they should talk to me about it... not write an obnoxious hate mail letter and send it unsigned.
4. Adoptive parents are worriers. Heck... new parents are worriers. PARENTS are worriers. The unknown can be all consuming. I think worrying is just part of the parental framework.
5. People can be judgemental on both sides of a coin. Both sides can have different degrees of being wrong and right. Now, don't get me wrong. I in no way, shape or form agree with sending anon. hate letters... but I do understand the concept that this person was hurt and caught off guard by this letter. I wonder if parents of soon to be born biological children feel the need to send letters like this.
6. I feel very bad for the waiting parent. It is stressful enough waiting in a line that seems to go on endlessly for the idea of a future child but to deal with this as well.. that is tough.
7. I am glad my babies are all home now. Whew!
I think it is sad that a friendship that spanned over 20 years is ending due to something like this. That is probably the worst part of all of this. I don't know if the parents will ever forget what happened. Hopefully, with time and distance, life will move on for them in a more positive and loving way.
Okay.... jumping off this topic. Maybe I need to write more about potty training and kids.
One of the recipients of the letter responded anon. with just truly hateful comments. The family was able to figure out who it was that sent the response. They are trying to decide where to head with this from here.
This scenario has caused me to really sit and think about many things.
We read and researched a lot about attachment and recommendations regarding how to handle introducing people into our children's lives upon returning home from China. We talked about what we would try to do.
You know... with both adoptions things were very different than we planned. We decided to be lead by our child instead of by research. Riley handled coming home very differently than Madeline. He was also significantly older.
I understand COMPLETELY the desire to prepare close friends and family for the possible scenarios. I have read the research. I have worried as a waiting parent about whether my children would bond with me... with us.
In the time that I have spent thinking about this I came to a few conclusions.
1. I am sooooo glad we never wrote a letter to family and friends. We didn't follow the plans we shared verbally since we took all of our cues from our children. Putting this in writing somehow feels to me like it ties you in to your plans no matter how you child reacts upon coming home.
2. Even though I have read the research, talked to the professionals, etc... I think I would have been very put off if I received a similar letter. I think I would have felt like the sender was treating me like I was an idiot who would physically force my presence on a child who was struggling. Heck, I won't hold a new born who is unhappy for long. This is not because I don't want to hold the crying baby, but know that the parents come first.
3. I don't think I would respond to a hateful response to a letter I sent, but just remove the person from my life. If someone was uncomfortable with what I wrote or shared, then they should talk to me about it... not write an obnoxious hate mail letter and send it unsigned.
4. Adoptive parents are worriers. Heck... new parents are worriers. PARENTS are worriers. The unknown can be all consuming. I think worrying is just part of the parental framework.
5. People can be judgemental on both sides of a coin. Both sides can have different degrees of being wrong and right. Now, don't get me wrong. I in no way, shape or form agree with sending anon. hate letters... but I do understand the concept that this person was hurt and caught off guard by this letter. I wonder if parents of soon to be born biological children feel the need to send letters like this.
6. I feel very bad for the waiting parent. It is stressful enough waiting in a line that seems to go on endlessly for the idea of a future child but to deal with this as well.. that is tough.
7. I am glad my babies are all home now. Whew!
I think it is sad that a friendship that spanned over 20 years is ending due to something like this. That is probably the worst part of all of this. I don't know if the parents will ever forget what happened. Hopefully, with time and distance, life will move on for them in a more positive and loving way.
Okay.... jumping off this topic. Maybe I need to write more about potty training and kids.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
One More Thing....
James crossed over from Cub Scouts to Boy Scouts tonight after 5 years of learning and laughing. He earned his Arrow of Light. We are so proud of him!
Boy Scouts will be a whole new world.
Also... football scares me. I love watching the pros, but hate watching my baby. Who do those other boys think they are hitting and tackling my baby!!! (Umm... and James is probably the tallest kid out there. He is far from a delicate child, but I still hate it.) Maybe he will decide he likes another sport that does not involve physical contact. I know, fat chance.
Boy Scouts will be a whole new world.
Also... football scares me. I love watching the pros, but hate watching my baby. Who do those other boys think they are hitting and tackling my baby!!! (Umm... and James is probably the tallest kid out there. He is far from a delicate child, but I still hate it.) Maybe he will decide he likes another sport that does not involve physical contact. I know, fat chance.
Monday, March 03, 2008
Crossing My Fingers
Well, my sweet Miss M has decided she rather likes the potty. Yesterday, totally on her own, she asked to sit on the potty twice. BOTH times she emptied her bladder!!!!!!! WOOOHOOO!!!! We danced and sang the peepee in the potty song. It was glorious! She was so proud... and rightfully so. Wow! I am thinking if we really start trying this potty thing on a regular basis she may potty train fairly quickly.
She is just growing up so quickly. Madeline has decided she does not want to be called Maddie at all. If anyone breaks this new rule she will not hesitate to correct you by saying.. No Maddie, I Madeline. Such a little thing yet so opinionated. This whole language explosion is great... but with a greater vocabulary comes the ability to make our thoughts known especially when we disagree.
My girl is growing taller by the minute. A year ago she was in 9 month sized clothing. Now she completely fills out 24 month sized clothing. We really think she will ultimately be taller than Riley. She has big feet, long legs and is just a solid kid for her age as compared to US growth charts. She is no wilting daisy.
Madeline is starting to ask for me to do things with her hair. She will generally leave it alone unless she is bored in the car seat or in her crib. Otherwise she likes to have her hair done up. Now, as she gets older I see this becoming a problem. For anyone who knows me well... they know... I am rather hair challenged. I am not a froofroo hair thingy kind of gal. I can brush my hair and put a schrunchie in it and that is about it. I am not kidding. I almost burnt down the house using a blow dryer. I have a flat iron because it was a gift. I have no clue how to use it. As long as M. is content with a barrette or pony tails we are good. Beyond that I may have to go to beauty school.... I have this big fear of being like Frenchy in Grease... a beauty school drop out. I don't want to embarass my girl, but hair stuff is truly beyond my abilities.
Hey... does anyone know if it is easier if I let her bangs grow out? I am thinking it would be so cute with them pulled back to one side... but don't know if I am opening a whole new hair care bag of worms. Advice is greatly appreciated.
By the way.... I am LOVING having a daughter. My boys are so all mine. Madeline is a Daddy's girl. This is new to me. The boys always choose me first. Madeline is all Jerry's. It is so different. I love trying to figure out of these girly things. She is so worth it.
She is just growing up so quickly. Madeline has decided she does not want to be called Maddie at all. If anyone breaks this new rule she will not hesitate to correct you by saying.. No Maddie, I Madeline. Such a little thing yet so opinionated. This whole language explosion is great... but with a greater vocabulary comes the ability to make our thoughts known especially when we disagree.
My girl is growing taller by the minute. A year ago she was in 9 month sized clothing. Now she completely fills out 24 month sized clothing. We really think she will ultimately be taller than Riley. She has big feet, long legs and is just a solid kid for her age as compared to US growth charts. She is no wilting daisy.
Madeline is starting to ask for me to do things with her hair. She will generally leave it alone unless she is bored in the car seat or in her crib. Otherwise she likes to have her hair done up. Now, as she gets older I see this becoming a problem. For anyone who knows me well... they know... I am rather hair challenged. I am not a froofroo hair thingy kind of gal. I can brush my hair and put a schrunchie in it and that is about it. I am not kidding. I almost burnt down the house using a blow dryer. I have a flat iron because it was a gift. I have no clue how to use it. As long as M. is content with a barrette or pony tails we are good. Beyond that I may have to go to beauty school.... I have this big fear of being like Frenchy in Grease... a beauty school drop out. I don't want to embarass my girl, but hair stuff is truly beyond my abilities.
Hey... does anyone know if it is easier if I let her bangs grow out? I am thinking it would be so cute with them pulled back to one side... but don't know if I am opening a whole new hair care bag of worms. Advice is greatly appreciated.
By the way.... I am LOVING having a daughter. My boys are so all mine. Madeline is a Daddy's girl. This is new to me. The boys always choose me first. Madeline is all Jerry's. It is so different. I love trying to figure out of these girly things. She is so worth it.
Saturday, March 01, 2008
Jenni's Grandparents
My friend, Jenni, wrote a post on her blog about her grandmother, Mamaw. I have to tell you, it brought back a flood of wonderful memories.
Jenni and I met back in 1988, I think. We were in college together. We got to know each other and became great friends. During this time Jenni's grandparents were a very present part of her life at home. Because of that, I was lucky enough to be able to get to know them, too.
Jenni's grandfather, Papaw, was a very unique man. He was sweet and kind... but you could tell he had always worked hard in his life. He would talk about growing crops, his home in TN and the rough years. He was friendly and always had an innocent hospitality about him. I will never forget Jenni telling me about Papaw being hit by the car. Her family was having a yard/garage sale, I think. Papaw had gone out to the main road to put a sign up or down. (Heck, this has been 20 years, I am trying to put the pieces back together here.) Papaw was hit by a car. Now, this man was tough as nails. He survived and lived for many more years sharing his wisdom and memories.
Jenni's grandmother, Mamaw, was a cute little spit fire. She loved her family fiercely. She had the sweetest voice. I used to love seeing Mamaw. She greeted me like family. She welcomed me with a feeling of love and acceptance. It always felt like an honor to be in Mamaw's presence. I think one of the memories of Mamaw that will always bring a smile to my face was after Mamaw had lost her eyesight. I remember walking into Jenni's parent's home in Lake Wales. Mamaw was sitting at the table. I walked over to greet her with a hug. Mamaw took my hands in hers and said ... in her southern drawl... "Now, Mary, I can't see very well anymore but I sure am glad you are here." She was so wonderful. Mamaw made me feel like she cared for me as much as she did for her family. She just had that way about her.
Reading Jenni's post about Mamaw has opened up a few conversations between Jerry and I about our memories of Mamaw and Papaw. They were just good people, who cared about others and treated us with acceptance, kindness and love. We miss them.
Jenni and I met back in 1988, I think. We were in college together. We got to know each other and became great friends. During this time Jenni's grandparents were a very present part of her life at home. Because of that, I was lucky enough to be able to get to know them, too.
Jenni's grandfather, Papaw, was a very unique man. He was sweet and kind... but you could tell he had always worked hard in his life. He would talk about growing crops, his home in TN and the rough years. He was friendly and always had an innocent hospitality about him. I will never forget Jenni telling me about Papaw being hit by the car. Her family was having a yard/garage sale, I think. Papaw had gone out to the main road to put a sign up or down. (Heck, this has been 20 years, I am trying to put the pieces back together here.) Papaw was hit by a car. Now, this man was tough as nails. He survived and lived for many more years sharing his wisdom and memories.
Jenni's grandmother, Mamaw, was a cute little spit fire. She loved her family fiercely. She had the sweetest voice. I used to love seeing Mamaw. She greeted me like family. She welcomed me with a feeling of love and acceptance. It always felt like an honor to be in Mamaw's presence. I think one of the memories of Mamaw that will always bring a smile to my face was after Mamaw had lost her eyesight. I remember walking into Jenni's parent's home in Lake Wales. Mamaw was sitting at the table. I walked over to greet her with a hug. Mamaw took my hands in hers and said ... in her southern drawl... "Now, Mary, I can't see very well anymore but I sure am glad you are here." She was so wonderful. Mamaw made me feel like she cared for me as much as she did for her family. She just had that way about her.
Reading Jenni's post about Mamaw has opened up a few conversations between Jerry and I about our memories of Mamaw and Papaw. They were just good people, who cared about others and treated us with acceptance, kindness and love. We miss them.
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