conversation between Ellie and I:
Ellie: I was thinking I clean my room after rest time.
Me: I told you to clean your room now.
Ellie: YOU'RE NOT COMING TO MY PARTY!!!
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Christmas photos
This year for our Christmas pictures, Kyle set up his lights & backdrops. It's been a while since we had "formal" pictures of the kids. It's just so much easier to get great pics outside of them acting natural. Grandparents don't get the non-traditional pictures, though, and have been begging for "real pictures" of the kids they can put in their wallets.
It's always so stressful, but I think Kyle managed to get some of their personalities even with the backdrops and posing.
It's always so stressful, but I think Kyle managed to get some of their personalities even with the backdrops and posing.
Friday, November 20, 2009
It all started on our way to family camp. Noah started running a fever 2 days before we left for Michigan. It was low-grade and, other than a cough every now and then, there really was no other symptom. It lasted 48 hours and by the time we got to camp, he was back to normal.
Fast forward to Thurs. morning 3:45am. I am awakened to Ellie screaming in the bunk next to me. I get up and go over to her to find that she is now burning up with fever. Hers, too, lasted 48 hours. She had a sore throat. Her last day of fever and our 1st leg of the trip home, Lucas is complaining of a sore throat. But, he has no fever and is acting completely normal. The next morning, Lucas woke up with a cough and said his chest felt funny. I thought he had bronchitis.
We got home that night and he did indeed have a low-grade fever. I sent him to bed.
Sunday morning he was vomiting, coughing and grunting when he breathed. I couldn't leave the thermometer in his mouth long enough for a full reading but when I pulled it out it was 103. I called Kyle home from church and took Lucas to immediate care.
After a chest x-ray, it was confirmed he had pneumonia. They sent us home with antibiotic and albuterol for breathing treatments.
Monday morning we went in after a sleepless night of vomiting, high fevers, and cough. The triage nurse took his oxygen level and was alarmed. It was 95. Not awful, but an hour after doing a breathing treatment, it really should've been higher. She checked his pulse and immediately told us to go into Room 2 and have him lie down. She ran (yes, literally) to get the doctor.
"Pulse is 280."
"Really?" our ped. replied
The pediatrician listened to him. I was told to calm down.
"His pulse is high, but not THAT high. We wouldn't even be able to count that."
I'm crying, Lucas is freaking out (which didn't help his heart rate), and the doctor says:
"I need you to head over to the ER. Do you feel comfortable driving him?"
I head next door to the ER. I can't get a hold of Kyle. While registering Lucas, I see a good friend from church in one of the offices. Who knew she worked over there? God did and it was just what I needed at that moment.
They take us to a room and while waiting on the dr. I get a call from Kyle.
Long story short, Kyle did indeed come right over. (so glad he works at the hospital!) We spent 8 hours in the ER that day and were on the verge of being admitted to Children's. We spent every day of the next week in the doctor's office. Lucas' oxygen level dipped to below 90 several times. Each time, though, they were able to get it to come back up so we were sent home. It was a scary, stressful week.
After being put on a super-strong antibiotic, breathing treatments every 4 hours round the clock for a week, zantec for the heartburn caused by the antibiotic, and finally steroids, Lucas recovered. An entire week of fever and feeling awful. It was, by far, the sickest any of my kids have ever been.
One month later he was deemed "all clear" and we celebrated. With the H1N1 vaccine. :)
Fast forward to Thurs. morning 3:45am. I am awakened to Ellie screaming in the bunk next to me. I get up and go over to her to find that she is now burning up with fever. Hers, too, lasted 48 hours. She had a sore throat. Her last day of fever and our 1st leg of the trip home, Lucas is complaining of a sore throat. But, he has no fever and is acting completely normal. The next morning, Lucas woke up with a cough and said his chest felt funny. I thought he had bronchitis.
We got home that night and he did indeed have a low-grade fever. I sent him to bed.
Sunday morning he was vomiting, coughing and grunting when he breathed. I couldn't leave the thermometer in his mouth long enough for a full reading but when I pulled it out it was 103. I called Kyle home from church and took Lucas to immediate care.
After a chest x-ray, it was confirmed he had pneumonia. They sent us home with antibiotic and albuterol for breathing treatments.
Monday morning we went in after a sleepless night of vomiting, high fevers, and cough. The triage nurse took his oxygen level and was alarmed. It was 95. Not awful, but an hour after doing a breathing treatment, it really should've been higher. She checked his pulse and immediately told us to go into Room 2 and have him lie down. She ran (yes, literally) to get the doctor.
"Pulse is 280."
"Really?" our ped. replied
The pediatrician listened to him. I was told to calm down.
"His pulse is high, but not THAT high. We wouldn't even be able to count that."
I'm crying, Lucas is freaking out (which didn't help his heart rate), and the doctor says:
"I need you to head over to the ER. Do you feel comfortable driving him?"
I head next door to the ER. I can't get a hold of Kyle. While registering Lucas, I see a good friend from church in one of the offices. Who knew she worked over there? God did and it was just what I needed at that moment.
They take us to a room and while waiting on the dr. I get a call from Kyle.
Long story short, Kyle did indeed come right over. (so glad he works at the hospital!) We spent 8 hours in the ER that day and were on the verge of being admitted to Children's. We spent every day of the next week in the doctor's office. Lucas' oxygen level dipped to below 90 several times. Each time, though, they were able to get it to come back up so we were sent home. It was a scary, stressful week.
After being put on a super-strong antibiotic, breathing treatments every 4 hours round the clock for a week, zantec for the heartburn caused by the antibiotic, and finally steroids, Lucas recovered. An entire week of fever and feeling awful. It was, by far, the sickest any of my kids have ever been.
One month later he was deemed "all clear" and we celebrated. With the H1N1 vaccine. :)
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Volunteers anyone?
This morning I was reading the story about Daniel out of The Jesus Storybook Bible for Noah & Jacob's Bible lesson. I was telling them that God is teaching me that He is still the same God that closed the mouth of the lions for Daniel and kept Shadrach & his friends safe in the fire. The following was our conversation:
Me: Isn't it cool to know that the same God that did that for Daniel is the same God that we worship today? He hasn't changed! Do you ever wonder why we don't see God do those things anymore?
Jacob: Well, He doesn't really get the chance. I mean, they don't just throw people to lion's anymore.
Me: Isn't it cool to know that the same God that did that for Daniel is the same God that we worship today? He hasn't changed! Do you ever wonder why we don't see God do those things anymore?
Jacob: Well, He doesn't really get the chance. I mean, they don't just throw people to lion's anymore.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Ouch?
Quote of the day from Noah:
"Sometimes they bring a real bulldog to the Bulldog game and sometimes they bring a real falcon to the Falcons game, but I don't think they'd bring a real yellow jacket to the Yellow Jacket's game."
"Sometimes they bring a real bulldog to the Bulldog game and sometimes they bring a real falcon to the Falcons game, but I don't think they'd bring a real yellow jacket to the Yellow Jacket's game."
Monday, September 7, 2009
Nine
Dear Lucas,
Today you are 9. It seems like yesterday that all the excitement surrounding your birth was taking place. Yes, son, you sure know how to make a grand entrance! Don't ever forget that you are a miracle. God placed his hand on you and has great things planned for you and I can't wait to see what they are!
You have grown into such a young man. I know it's an awkward place to be - sometimes you feel like a little boy and sometimes you think you're grown. It'll be over soon. Enjoy the ride. :)
You love to draw. Especially comic strips. And I have to admit they are quite good. For a child that's never had an art lesson, I see some great things coming from that pencil (or pen, or marker, or crayon....). Your sense of humor isn't quite the same as mine, but I guess to other boys your age it would be hilarious.
You have taken an intense interest in cars recently. You know them all. You love VW beetles and Mini Coopers. You love Corvettes and Porsches. In fact you told me the other day that when you're older Porsches will remind you of your childhood. I questioned that fact considering the best we can do is a minivan and a Ford Focus that is in such bad need of being replaced the windows are taped up in the back. But it's just like you to have grandiose ideas.
You love Switchfoot. You love music. You have come a long way in your piano abilities and are starting to learn a few guitar chords. You'd much rather play the guitar, but we've told you you have to learn to read music on the piano first. One day you'll thank us.
You also read. A lot. At least a book every day. I pray that continues for the rest of your life.
Right now in school we are memorizing the book of James. You were not happy about that at first, but now that we're 1/2way through the first chapter I see you enjoying it! (though you'd never admit it!) I can't tell you what a joy it is to hear you quoting scripture. My prayer is that it takes root deep inside your heart. That you would follow your Creator with a passion.
I see your hunger for God's word - I've seen it since you were three and would recite the story of David & Goliath. Just yesterday Pastor Steve preached from that and I had to smile as I remember you saying - in the lowest voice you could get - "Am I a dog that you come at me with sticks?" Then you would be David slinging the slingshot. Then you were Goliath falling down - you get the picture. :)
So my biggest boy, today we celebrate God's goodness in your life. I am so proud of you. I love you.
For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
(Eph. 3:14-20)
Mommy.
Today you are 9. It seems like yesterday that all the excitement surrounding your birth was taking place. Yes, son, you sure know how to make a grand entrance! Don't ever forget that you are a miracle. God placed his hand on you and has great things planned for you and I can't wait to see what they are!
You have grown into such a young man. I know it's an awkward place to be - sometimes you feel like a little boy and sometimes you think you're grown. It'll be over soon. Enjoy the ride. :)
You love to draw. Especially comic strips. And I have to admit they are quite good. For a child that's never had an art lesson, I see some great things coming from that pencil (or pen, or marker, or crayon....). Your sense of humor isn't quite the same as mine, but I guess to other boys your age it would be hilarious.
You have taken an intense interest in cars recently. You know them all. You love VW beetles and Mini Coopers. You love Corvettes and Porsches. In fact you told me the other day that when you're older Porsches will remind you of your childhood. I questioned that fact considering the best we can do is a minivan and a Ford Focus that is in such bad need of being replaced the windows are taped up in the back. But it's just like you to have grandiose ideas.
You love Switchfoot. You love music. You have come a long way in your piano abilities and are starting to learn a few guitar chords. You'd much rather play the guitar, but we've told you you have to learn to read music on the piano first. One day you'll thank us.
You also read. A lot. At least a book every day. I pray that continues for the rest of your life.
Right now in school we are memorizing the book of James. You were not happy about that at first, but now that we're 1/2way through the first chapter I see you enjoying it! (though you'd never admit it!) I can't tell you what a joy it is to hear you quoting scripture. My prayer is that it takes root deep inside your heart. That you would follow your Creator with a passion.
I see your hunger for God's word - I've seen it since you were three and would recite the story of David & Goliath. Just yesterday Pastor Steve preached from that and I had to smile as I remember you saying - in the lowest voice you could get - "Am I a dog that you come at me with sticks?" Then you would be David slinging the slingshot. Then you were Goliath falling down - you get the picture. :)
So my biggest boy, today we celebrate God's goodness in your life. I am so proud of you. I love you.
For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
(Eph. 3:14-20)
Mommy.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
kissed the girls and made them cry
Last night I picked up Ellie and a good friend's 5 year old son from a birthday party. The following is their conversation on the way home. (name changed to protect the innocent. :))
Joe: Ellie, you're beautiful.
Ellie: What????
Joe: I said you're beautiful!
Ellie: Say it louder!!!
Joe: YOU'RE BEAU-TI-FUL!
Ellie laughs.
Joe: Did you hear me?
Ellie: Yes!
Joe: Do you want to kiss me now?
Ellie: No!
Joe: Ellie, you're beautiful.
Ellie: What????
Joe: I said you're beautiful!
Ellie: Say it louder!!!
Joe: YOU'RE BEAU-TI-FUL!
Ellie laughs.
Joe: Did you hear me?
Ellie: Yes!
Joe: Do you want to kiss me now?
Ellie: No!
Friday, September 4, 2009
Buffalo Chicken Dip
I've never done anything like this before, but one of my favorite bloggers - boomama - is having a diptacular and since Kyle just brought home a fabulous dip recipe from work, I thought "why not share it with all 5 of you?" So here it is:
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo Chicken Dip
2 – 12 oz cans all white chicken
¾ cup Franks Red Hot Sauce
2 – 8 oz cream cheese
1 ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup ranch dressing
½ cup blue cheese dressing
- Mix chicken and hot sauce, add cream cheese and both dressings.
- Add ½ cup cheese and put in crock pot. Right before serving add remainder of cheese.
- Serve with Tostito’s Scoops or your favorite dipping chip or just grab a spoon and eat it as is. :)
Sunday, August 30, 2009
goggles and God's glory
Today Noah was baptized. He wore his googles and went forward instead of backward. But his heart was right. He wanted to be obedient to Christ.
About a year and a half ago, Noah prayed and asked God to be his boss & to forgive his sin. He became at that moment a new creation - a child of God. He knew that it wasn't being baptized that would save him. He understood that baptism was obedience and taking a stand before everyone that Jesus Christ is his Lord. He knew. He understood. But he was terrified. We let it go and prayed for the Lord to speak to him and work in his heart.
So, when it was announced a few weeks ago that baptism would be this Sunday, we asked him - like always - if he was ready. I was surprised to hear "I'll think about it" instead of the adamant NO! that we usually heard. After discussing it with him, it was clear that he was ready. Hesitant and nervous, but ready.
"But," he said, "can I wear my goggles?" Noah has never put his entire head under the water (by his own choosing, at least) and must wear goggles in the water at all times, even though his eyes are always above it. That's just one of the quirky things that makes Noah....Noah.
(Here's the part where I am honest and let my faulty flesh shine through to all of blogworld.)
My immediate thought was "Of course not! Whatever would all those people think if you have goggles on?!?! Jesus did not wear goggles. You should not wear goggles. How will I ever keep my reputation as a godly, spiritual mother if my son is baptized in goggles???" Thankfully, I didn't voice my opinion but instead said "We'll have to see about that." Kyle was all on board with the goggle-wearing, citing that nowhere could you find a passage that says "goggles may not be worn during baptism." I emailed our pastor thinking surely he would agree with me.
His reply - this is a direct quote -
"Regarding Noah... he can wear scuba gear if he wants to :-). I have no problem with the goggles."
Not what I had expected. Thinking that maybe God was trying to teach me something (ya think???) I stopped at that moment and prayed. I admitted that I was worried about what others would think - that I felt the need to explain to everyone beforehand why my son had goggles on. I began to tell God how important it was that Noah not wear goggles.
I'm not sure what I was expecting. Maybe I thought God would change Kyle's mind and he would see my point of view. Instead, God changed my heart. He showed me that I was more worried about what people would think than I was about Noah's heart to follow after Him. He showed me that I was being legalistic. He took away my desire to explain the situation and gave me peace that He was leading Noah. I repented and asked God to show me Noah's heart.
And He did. Noah was more nervous than I have ever seen him. He was quirkier than usual the moments before baptism. I was afraid he wouldn't go through with it. But he did. Even though it was hard for him, even though he was terrified, he did it. To see his smile as he came out of the baptistry, to see the joy on his face afterwards, to watch him be obedient to his Savior despite the obstacles - I had to stop and give God glory.
Today, I was reminded of how many times I have not been obedient because it was too hard or I was too afraid. I pray that I can be as courageous as Noah. That the next time God asks me to follow Him I won't tell him I can't because I'm scared or it's too hard for me. Oh to be obedient despite the costs! That's my heart's desire. Thank you, my precious Noah, for teaching me something today.
Here's the video -(Lucas took it so if you're prone to motion sickness you may want to skip it. )
Click on the thumbnail to watch.
Noah's baptism 8/30
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
blast from the past
We have two computers in our home. One upstairs, one down. The upstairs computer is our old PC. The downstairs - Kyle's new(ish) Mac. Our PC monitor died several months ago so we've been soley a Mac family for a while now. Not a problem, except all our old pictures were on our PC as well as a math curriculum that Lucas needed for school this year. Which is why a few weeks ago we broke down and bought a new monitor for the old computer.
All that to say I have been going through pictures on this computer, deleting bad ones that we'll never use and narrowing down our selection. I love, love, love pictures and love, love, love looking through the kids baby pics and remembering that sweet time of life.
So I thought I'd share a few -
These all got out of order, but oh well. Here's a classic Ellie face that
hasn't seeemed to disappear with age. ;)
And here she is at 3 months - looking a bit more angelic :) - in Guatemala
while we were waiting to come home.
Jacob @ about 6 months.
Noah @ 9 months after bathtime.
Our two handsome boys (lucas & noah) ready for fall festival at church.
And the next year - our 3 sweet boys just hangin' out. Daddy worked nights
during these years - so Mommy and the boys had lots of time
on our hands.
Lucas's 1st birthday
One night we heard "Feliz Navidad" coming from the bathroom. When we went to investigate we found this. Lucas on his little potty with his undies on his head.
Preemie Noah coming home from the hospital.
My baby boy Jacob and his heart-melting dimples.
All that to say I have been going through pictures on this computer, deleting bad ones that we'll never use and narrowing down our selection. I love, love, love pictures and love, love, love looking through the kids baby pics and remembering that sweet time of life.
So I thought I'd share a few -
These all got out of order, but oh well. Here's a classic Ellie face thathasn't seeemed to disappear with age. ;)
And here she is at 3 months - looking a bit more angelic :) - in Guatemalawhile we were waiting to come home.
Jacob @ about 6 months.
Noah @ 9 months after bathtime.
Our two handsome boys (lucas & noah) ready for fall festival at church.
And the next year - our 3 sweet boys just hangin' out. Daddy worked nightsduring these years - so Mommy and the boys had lots of time
on our hands.
Lucas's 1st birthday
One night we heard "Feliz Navidad" coming from the bathroom. When we went to investigate we found this. Lucas on his little potty with his undies on his head.
Preemie Noah coming home from the hospital.
My baby boy Jacob and his heart-melting dimples.Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Burning things & the Old Testament?
So much for creative titles. :)
Today I actually remembered to grab the video camera to capture a couple of moments. Lucas was outside experimenting with the sun's energy. (i.e., burning things) While out there, the others showed off their remarkable singing ability with their books of the Old Testament song we've been learning.
It's a shame my kids are so camera shy. And please excuse my extreme southern accent on the word "Amos." You can take the girl out of Mississippi, but apparently you can't take the Mississippi out of the girl.
Yes, I'm aware that their singing ability isn't what most would call .... good. I'm also aware that 90% of what Ellie says is barely intelligible. We're working on that hand in hand with the school system who promises that "soon" she'll be evaluated. But that's another post for another day.
Today I actually remembered to grab the video camera to capture a couple of moments. Lucas was outside experimenting with the sun's energy. (i.e., burning things) While out there, the others showed off their remarkable singing ability with their books of the Old Testament song we've been learning.
It's a shame my kids are so camera shy. And please excuse my extreme southern accent on the word "Amos." You can take the girl out of Mississippi, but apparently you can't take the Mississippi out of the girl.
Yes, I'm aware that their singing ability isn't what most would call .... good. I'm also aware that 90% of what Ellie says is barely intelligible. We're working on that hand in hand with the school system who promises that "soon" she'll be evaluated. But that's another post for another day.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
School started last week. I'm still working on the room - still need to make curtains and a cushion for the window seat, but I'm enjoying having a room dedicated to school. Even if it means sharing it with a piano! I took our coat closet in the foyer and turned it into my supply closet and have other supplies stored in the window seat. We also started a new routine this year - the kids get up at 7:30 with their own alarm clocks! They have to do their "morning b's" (Brush their teeth, Body - washed/dressed, make their Bed, eat Breakfast, and Bring down laundry). They do them in an order they wish, but have to be done and on the couch for Bible at 8:30. It's worked amazingly well!
We also headed down to Georgia Tech one Saturday for The Great Yellow Jacket Encounter. It was way too hot & way too crowded, but the kids had a blast. We ate at the Varsity afterwards which is always a special treat.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Video diary
Seeing how it's my birthday and I'm so incredibly busy today (watching old shows on hulu.com is terribly exhausting) I'm just posting a few videos from our trip to Mississippi. I'll blog about it later, but we had a great time. My parents bought a slip-n-slide which brought hours of fun and belly rashes, we had a fabulous time seeing old friends, and got to relax and do nothing in rural south MS. Here ya go -
While swimming one day we took off Ellie's floaties and she just started swimming! Fearless.
And this is in the car on the way home - too many hours in a small space does strange things to my kids.
While swimming one day we took off Ellie's floaties and she just started swimming! Fearless.
And this is in the car on the way home - too many hours in a small space does strange things to my kids.
Monday, June 8, 2009
So it's officially summer at our casa. Actually, it's been summer for a couple of weeks now, but I think this is our first full week at home with no school.
Last week the kids and I went with K's mom (AKA Mimi) to their place in Myrtle Beach. Not sure if I've mentioned it before or not, but me and the beach + kids: not close friends. Something about applying sunscreen to 4 wiggly kids, making sure everyone has sunglasses, beach toys, hats, shoes, chairs, water, floaties, being lifeguard to those same 4 kids who think that they are invincible in the ocean, mentally counting 1-2-3-4, 1-2-3-4, 1-2-3......"WHERE'S 4?" over and over, deciding we've had enough *fun* and loading everything back up in the wagon, pulling said wagon through the sand while the 4 kids run ahead of me, walking back to the house with sand rubbing a blister between my toes in my flip flops, having to rinse everyone down and give showers once back to get the 2 gallons of sand out of their hair and various other body crevices.....
Can you see why I'm longing for our July cruise to the Bahamas. A beach paradise with no kids to hear whine about the sun in their eyes? No sand to rinse off? No constant lookout for drowning victims? Paradise.
The pool was so much less stressful and I actually think the kids had almost as good of a time there. Lucas' swimming skills are much improved over last summer and with the other two boys wearing floaties I could relax a bit. Ellie spent her time in the kiddie pool where she impressed us with her un-fear (I'm sure that word's somewhere in the dictionary) of water and her self-taught swimming skills.
I took the boys to see Night at the Museum 2. I have to say that I was not looking foward to it, as most of the movies my kids want to see I don't normally enjoy. However, I was laughing out loud at several parts and had a great time.
I have no pictures to share as I didn't take a camera. (oops). But I did take our new flip video camera. And when I got home and downloaded all the video, I realized that Lucas had discovered the world of video. The 15 videos shot in the car were evidence of that.
The first one posted is his work. I don't think Steven Spielburg has much to worry about. :) (Disclaimer: If you have a tendency toward motion sickness, you may just want to close your eyes and listen. Don't say I didn't warn you.)
Yes, that was my sweet little princess saying "I'm gonna punch you."
And here she is with her mad swimming skillz. (I've always wanted to spell it that way)
Last week the kids and I went with K's mom (AKA Mimi) to their place in Myrtle Beach. Not sure if I've mentioned it before or not, but me and the beach + kids: not close friends. Something about applying sunscreen to 4 wiggly kids, making sure everyone has sunglasses, beach toys, hats, shoes, chairs, water, floaties, being lifeguard to those same 4 kids who think that they are invincible in the ocean, mentally counting 1-2-3-4, 1-2-3-4, 1-2-3......"WHERE'S 4?" over and over, deciding we've had enough *fun* and loading everything back up in the wagon, pulling said wagon through the sand while the 4 kids run ahead of me, walking back to the house with sand rubbing a blister between my toes in my flip flops, having to rinse everyone down and give showers once back to get the 2 gallons of sand out of their hair and various other body crevices.....
Can you see why I'm longing for our July cruise to the Bahamas. A beach paradise with no kids to hear whine about the sun in their eyes? No sand to rinse off? No constant lookout for drowning victims? Paradise.
The pool was so much less stressful and I actually think the kids had almost as good of a time there. Lucas' swimming skills are much improved over last summer and with the other two boys wearing floaties I could relax a bit. Ellie spent her time in the kiddie pool where she impressed us with her un-fear (I'm sure that word's somewhere in the dictionary) of water and her self-taught swimming skills.
I took the boys to see Night at the Museum 2. I have to say that I was not looking foward to it, as most of the movies my kids want to see I don't normally enjoy. However, I was laughing out loud at several parts and had a great time.
I have no pictures to share as I didn't take a camera. (oops). But I did take our new flip video camera. And when I got home and downloaded all the video, I realized that Lucas had discovered the world of video. The 15 videos shot in the car were evidence of that.
The first one posted is his work. I don't think Steven Spielburg has much to worry about. :) (Disclaimer: If you have a tendency toward motion sickness, you may just want to close your eyes and listen. Don't say I didn't warn you.)
Yes, that was my sweet little princess saying "I'm gonna punch you."
And here she is with her mad swimming skillz. (I've always wanted to spell it that way)
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Happy Birthday Jacob!
Today my baby boy is 6. Every year I sit back in amazement that the old cliche' "they grow up so fast" really is true.
May 19, 2003. The very day I was 37 weeks pregnant. I had been in the day before telling the doctor & nurses that I was in labor. But they, in all their "professional" knowledge told me I was wrong. 12 hours later I was back in labor & delivery and had dilated to 4 cm. I tried to tell 'em. :)
At 6:48 am this is the conversation that took place.
Dr. Freeman "I think he's about a 6 pounder"
Me: "Are you sure it's a boy?"
In all seriousness I had doubted the dr's assurance that I was having a boy. Surely ultrasounds can be wrong. Surely Dr. Freeman had gotten it wrong before. In fact, he got it wrong with a close friend of mine. So, I prepared for our 3rd boy, but deep in my heart was hoping for a girl. (more on that in a minute)
Jacob weighed in at a tiny 6lb 2oz. I remember thinking that he didn't look like the other two boys. I remember thinking that I could not name him Davis. I told Kyle this revelation while in recovery. We had already decided his name would be Davis. We had told family & friends - most importantly our then 2 1/2 year old - that this was baby Davis. But now, I just couldn't do it.
So, for the next few hours we "discussed" what we would name him. We, obviously, decided on Jacob. Jacob Aaron Brogdon.
And Jacob has been the hugest (is that a word) blessing to our family. We surely would have missed so much had he been a girl. God showed me, once again, how faithful He is and how much better he knows us than we know ourselves. I thought I wanted a girl. In reality, I just wanted another child. And life with my 3 boys for the next few years was delightful. Jacob was the BEST baby you could imagine. He has developed quite the temper in his preschool years, but he has also developed the greatest personality.
Our pastor once told us "the kite that pulls the hardest flies the highest." I believe God has BIG things in store for Jacob. My prayer for him is that he uses his passion to follow Christ with everything he is and that he will be a true worshipper of God.
I love you J. I am so honored that I get to be your Mommy and I can't wait to see the young man you are on the road to becoming.
May 19, 2003. The very day I was 37 weeks pregnant. I had been in the day before telling the doctor & nurses that I was in labor. But they, in all their "professional" knowledge told me I was wrong. 12 hours later I was back in labor & delivery and had dilated to 4 cm. I tried to tell 'em. :)
At 6:48 am this is the conversation that took place.
Dr. Freeman "I think he's about a 6 pounder"
Me: "Are you sure it's a boy?"
In all seriousness I had doubted the dr's assurance that I was having a boy. Surely ultrasounds can be wrong. Surely Dr. Freeman had gotten it wrong before. In fact, he got it wrong with a close friend of mine. So, I prepared for our 3rd boy, but deep in my heart was hoping for a girl. (more on that in a minute)
Jacob weighed in at a tiny 6lb 2oz. I remember thinking that he didn't look like the other two boys. I remember thinking that I could not name him Davis. I told Kyle this revelation while in recovery. We had already decided his name would be Davis. We had told family & friends - most importantly our then 2 1/2 year old - that this was baby Davis. But now, I just couldn't do it.
So, for the next few hours we "discussed" what we would name him. We, obviously, decided on Jacob. Jacob Aaron Brogdon.
And Jacob has been the hugest (is that a word) blessing to our family. We surely would have missed so much had he been a girl. God showed me, once again, how faithful He is and how much better he knows us than we know ourselves. I thought I wanted a girl. In reality, I just wanted another child. And life with my 3 boys for the next few years was delightful. Jacob was the BEST baby you could imagine. He has developed quite the temper in his preschool years, but he has also developed the greatest personality.
Our pastor once told us "the kite that pulls the hardest flies the highest." I believe God has BIG things in store for Jacob. My prayer for him is that he uses his passion to follow Christ with everything he is and that he will be a true worshipper of God.
I love you J. I am so honored that I get to be your Mommy and I can't wait to see the young man you are on the road to becoming.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Literally?
A part of Asperger's Syndrome is taking things literally.
Yesterday, I took Lucas & Noah to the orthodontist. Why they insist on seeing kids at ages 7 & 8 nowadays is a post for another day. But, that's where we were.
Before our appt each boy had to fill out a questionnaire about themselves: their likes & dislikes, etc.
Lucas had his turn and had a great conversation with the ortho about playing baseball, swimming, & eating pizza.
When it was Noah's turn, the conversation went like this:
Ortho: So, do you play baseball? I see you have a baseball on your shirt.
Noah: No.
Ortho: What sport do you like to play? Oh, I see here that you like to play soccer. Are you playing soccer now?
Noah: No.
Ortho: What are you doing right now?
Noah: Sitting in this chair.
I wish I could type the look on his face because it was so incredibly funny. He looked at the ortho. like "What a stupid question! Can you not see what I'm doing right now?"
I'm still laughing about it.
Yesterday, I took Lucas & Noah to the orthodontist. Why they insist on seeing kids at ages 7 & 8 nowadays is a post for another day. But, that's where we were.
Before our appt each boy had to fill out a questionnaire about themselves: their likes & dislikes, etc.
Lucas had his turn and had a great conversation with the ortho about playing baseball, swimming, & eating pizza.
When it was Noah's turn, the conversation went like this:
Ortho: So, do you play baseball? I see you have a baseball on your shirt.
Noah: No.
Ortho: What sport do you like to play? Oh, I see here that you like to play soccer. Are you playing soccer now?
Noah: No.
Ortho: What are you doing right now?
Noah: Sitting in this chair.
I wish I could type the look on his face because it was so incredibly funny. He looked at the ortho. like "What a stupid question! Can you not see what I'm doing right now?"
I'm still laughing about it.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Fish & Friends
This past week we took the week off of school for Spring Break. I had big plans to get the house super clean & organized. Yeah. It was a good plan.
On Friday we took the kids to the aquarium. A couple of years ago we had season passes and went many many times, but haven't been back since those passes expired. But a few months ago a friend emailed and said they'd be in Atlanta during the week and asked if we could meet them there. So we made plans (which really means we scrounged & saved & ate beans & rice) to be there.
The friends that came down we first met in Guatemala back in 2005. During the adoption process we had the opportunity to travel down and spend a week with Ellie. This was an amazing time & a post for another day. While we were down there, though, we met another couple staying next door to us and adopting through the same agency. Their daughter was only a few weeks older than Ellie. We spent the week hanging out with them and had a great time.
We haven't seen each other since July of 2005 since they live several states away. So, when we found out they would be in Atlanta, we packed up and headed on into the ATL. I had images of Ellie & Makenzie hitting it off and years from now still be great friends. Ellie's first response to Makenzie, however, was to start saying "NO, I don't want to see her!!!!!" and running away. Ellie stayed like that most of the day while Makenzie was a sweetheart. However, we did manage to get one cute picture & hopefully years from now they will still be in contact despite Ellie's rude behavior!
Here they are in July 2005 & April 2009! (Thanks for sending the photo Stacy!)
On Friday we took the kids to the aquarium. A couple of years ago we had season passes and went many many times, but haven't been back since those passes expired. But a few months ago a friend emailed and said they'd be in Atlanta during the week and asked if we could meet them there. So we made plans (which really means we scrounged & saved & ate beans & rice) to be there.
The friends that came down we first met in Guatemala back in 2005. During the adoption process we had the opportunity to travel down and spend a week with Ellie. This was an amazing time & a post for another day. While we were down there, though, we met another couple staying next door to us and adopting through the same agency. Their daughter was only a few weeks older than Ellie. We spent the week hanging out with them and had a great time.
We haven't seen each other since July of 2005 since they live several states away. So, when we found out they would be in Atlanta, we packed up and headed on into the ATL. I had images of Ellie & Makenzie hitting it off and years from now still be great friends. Ellie's first response to Makenzie, however, was to start saying "NO, I don't want to see her!!!!!" and running away. Ellie stayed like that most of the day while Makenzie was a sweetheart. However, we did manage to get one cute picture & hopefully years from now they will still be in contact despite Ellie's rude behavior!
Here they are in July 2005 & April 2009! (Thanks for sending the photo Stacy!)
Autographs for sale
You know those videos & pictures they show on American Idol of the contestants as kids?
You're looking at a future star, my friends. :)
Video by Lucas. Dancing by Ellie.
You're looking at a future star, my friends. :)
Video by Lucas. Dancing by Ellie.
Friday, March 27, 2009
I saw this on another blog that I read. This had to have been written about me.
I present to you My Life.
I present to you My Life.
If You Give A Mom A Muffin
Original Author Unknown
If you give a mom a muffin,
She'll want a cup of coffee to go with it.
She'll pour herself some.
Her three-year-old will spill the coffee.
She'll wipe it up.
Wiping the floor, she'll find dirty socks.
She'll remember she has to do laundry.
When she puts the laundry in the washer,
She'll trip over boots and bump into the freezer.
Bumping into the freezer will remind her she has to plan for supper.
She will get out a pound of hamburger.
She'll look for her cookbook ("101 Things To Do With a Pound of Hamburger").
The cookbook is sitting under a pile of mail.
She will see the phone bill, which is due tomorrow.
She will look for her checkbook.
The check book is in her purse that is being dumped out by her two-year-old.
She'll smell something funny.
She'll change the two year old's diaper.
While she is changing the diaper, the phone will ring.
Her five-year-old will answer and hang up.
She'll remember she wants to phone a friend for coffee.
Thinking of coffee will remind her that she was going to have a cup.
And chances are...
If she has a cup of coffee,
Her kids will have eaten the muffin that went with it.
Monday, March 16, 2009
One of those days
Years ago when I thought about being a wife and mother I had visions of sugary sweet children who lavished their love, affection, and eternal gratitude on me. Kids who were always neat, clean, and obedient. Our home would always smell of freshly baked goods and dirt would not be found inside. Our pets would be non-shedding, non-barking, perfect angels to accompany my delusions. I would have gourmet meals prepared for dinner every night and my kids would never eat junk food.
HUH??
Here's reality. I present to you my day.
I woke up an hour late this morning due to the exhaustion of a child coughing all night. Kyle found a gash on the dog's leg as he brought him in from going potty this morning in the flood outside (it's been raining continuously for 3 days now). I called the vet as I was fixing Ellie's lunch for preschool. Of course I had to bring him in as they couldn't tell me anything on the phone.
I grabbed some clothes for the kids and myself, loaded up 4 kids and a dog and took Ellie to school. Then we headed for the vet.
I asked if I could leave the dog and pick him up later. I was told I had to wait. So I waited. Feeling guilty for not being home "doing school" we had a spelling bee in the waiting room. Then we figured out 19 + 19 mentally. We talked about vets and what they do. An hour and $$$ later we left with Max and his stapled, bandaged leg and one of those cone shaped collars so he wouldn't bother it. I was told he had to wear this for at least 3 days. Yeah. Ok.
We got back home and discovered that Max was not going along with the cone collar fashion. He took it off no less than 10 times and I put it back on him each time. He ran into the walls so many times he started just standing in one place and not moving with his tail tucked between his legs. He wouldn't eat, drink, or pee. So I took the collar off. Someone had to sit by his crate every second to make sure he didn't chew his bandage. Not going to work. Put the collar back on this time accompanied by lots and lots of masking tape. I threw a frozen pizza into the oven and called it lunch.
Went to pick up Ellie. We stopped by the library to get some books and make me feel as if I was doing something to educate my kids. Of course, Noah had forgotten his shoes (see previous post). So here I head across the parking lot carrying my 7 year old and corralling everyone else in the rain. The kids were horrid in the library. The check out machine wasn't working well. As we were waiting on the librarian to bring us our DVDs Ellie dumped out the basket of 43 books onto the floor. I put her in time out in the chair and she started screaming and kicking and crying. I can't put into words how loud this is - you just have to experience it. I pack up the books and start to leave, she refuses to come, and as I walk through the doors, the book alarm goes off. We turn around and head to the desk so they can go through all 43 books one by one to see which one set off the alarm. All the while ellie is still in the chair screaming and the boys are playing chase around the stand of newspapers.
We get home and I take off the dog's collar so he will go potty and drink some water. I'm putting the collar back on which involves lots of tape and a 46 pound dog trying to sprint away, the kids are helping themselves to yogurt, Ellie runs in and shows me her painted yogurt face and the phone rings. Somehow I answer it and a staff member from church says "Hey Rebecca - is this a good time?"
I had to laugh so I wouldn't cry. Still trying to manage the dog I hold a conversation about finding nursery workers for the extra Easter services we're having.
As I hang up the phone I realized it's almost 4:00, I've failed at homeschooling today, my kids will be stupid and never get into college, I haven't had a shower today and am gross, dinner needs to be cooked and kids bathed because we have home group tonight.
Piece of cake.
HUH??
Here's reality. I present to you my day.
I woke up an hour late this morning due to the exhaustion of a child coughing all night. Kyle found a gash on the dog's leg as he brought him in from going potty this morning in the flood outside (it's been raining continuously for 3 days now). I called the vet as I was fixing Ellie's lunch for preschool. Of course I had to bring him in as they couldn't tell me anything on the phone.
I grabbed some clothes for the kids and myself, loaded up 4 kids and a dog and took Ellie to school. Then we headed for the vet.
I asked if I could leave the dog and pick him up later. I was told I had to wait. So I waited. Feeling guilty for not being home "doing school" we had a spelling bee in the waiting room. Then we figured out 19 + 19 mentally. We talked about vets and what they do. An hour and $$$ later we left with Max and his stapled, bandaged leg and one of those cone shaped collars so he wouldn't bother it. I was told he had to wear this for at least 3 days. Yeah. Ok.
We got back home and discovered that Max was not going along with the cone collar fashion. He took it off no less than 10 times and I put it back on him each time. He ran into the walls so many times he started just standing in one place and not moving with his tail tucked between his legs. He wouldn't eat, drink, or pee. So I took the collar off. Someone had to sit by his crate every second to make sure he didn't chew his bandage. Not going to work. Put the collar back on this time accompanied by lots and lots of masking tape. I threw a frozen pizza into the oven and called it lunch.
Went to pick up Ellie. We stopped by the library to get some books and make me feel as if I was doing something to educate my kids. Of course, Noah had forgotten his shoes (see previous post). So here I head across the parking lot carrying my 7 year old and corralling everyone else in the rain. The kids were horrid in the library. The check out machine wasn't working well. As we were waiting on the librarian to bring us our DVDs Ellie dumped out the basket of 43 books onto the floor. I put her in time out in the chair and she started screaming and kicking and crying. I can't put into words how loud this is - you just have to experience it. I pack up the books and start to leave, she refuses to come, and as I walk through the doors, the book alarm goes off. We turn around and head to the desk so they can go through all 43 books one by one to see which one set off the alarm. All the while ellie is still in the chair screaming and the boys are playing chase around the stand of newspapers.
We get home and I take off the dog's collar so he will go potty and drink some water. I'm putting the collar back on which involves lots of tape and a 46 pound dog trying to sprint away, the kids are helping themselves to yogurt, Ellie runs in and shows me her painted yogurt face and the phone rings. Somehow I answer it and a staff member from church says "Hey Rebecca - is this a good time?"
I had to laugh so I wouldn't cry. Still trying to manage the dog I hold a conversation about finding nursery workers for the extra Easter services we're having.
As I hang up the phone I realized it's almost 4:00, I've failed at homeschooling today, my kids will be stupid and never get into college, I haven't had a shower today and am gross, dinner needs to be cooked and kids bathed because we have home group tonight.
Piece of cake.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
No Shoe Noah
After 10 months of waiting, we finally took Noah in for an evaluation today.
We dropped the other kids off at a friend's house (thanks guys!) and headed out. As we were getting Noah out of the van I looked down and noticed that he was shoeless. Here's where I'd love to say that this was the first time we had gone somewhere and Noah did not remember his shoes, but it's not. We've been shoeless at the pumpkin patch, apple orchard, many restaurants, Walmart .....
So, Kyle scooped him up and off we went.
I was a bit nervous about the appointment. After fighting for so many years to find someone to see him AND accept our insurance, I just wanted to be heard. I didn't want to be dismissed as a paranoid mommy.
Dr. Schub could not have been nicer. He listened. He asked questions. He talked to Noah and related to him very well.
He told us that - by his definition - Noah has Aspergers.
We knew that. But I can't explain how great it is that someone with a degree has confirmed that we are not crazy, paranoid parents.
He gave a recommendation for a type of therapy as well as a psychologist and Occupational Therapist who do that type of therapy. We are quite certain we will not be able to afford it, but I have already started researching and I think with a little self teaching it is very doable at home.
Once again God has proven faithful and I am praising him for the blessing of being Noah's Mommy. What an awesome job.
We dropped the other kids off at a friend's house (thanks guys!) and headed out. As we were getting Noah out of the van I looked down and noticed that he was shoeless. Here's where I'd love to say that this was the first time we had gone somewhere and Noah did not remember his shoes, but it's not. We've been shoeless at the pumpkin patch, apple orchard, many restaurants, Walmart .....
So, Kyle scooped him up and off we went.
I was a bit nervous about the appointment. After fighting for so many years to find someone to see him AND accept our insurance, I just wanted to be heard. I didn't want to be dismissed as a paranoid mommy.
Dr. Schub could not have been nicer. He listened. He asked questions. He talked to Noah and related to him very well.
He told us that - by his definition - Noah has Aspergers.
We knew that. But I can't explain how great it is that someone with a degree has confirmed that we are not crazy, paranoid parents.
He gave a recommendation for a type of therapy as well as a psychologist and Occupational Therapist who do that type of therapy. We are quite certain we will not be able to afford it, but I have already started researching and I think with a little self teaching it is very doable at home.
Once again God has proven faithful and I am praising him for the blessing of being Noah's Mommy. What an awesome job.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
a beauitful shade of purple
When I was just married and teaching school, Sharpie markers were my friends. They came in very cool colors. They wrote on everything. They never washed off.
Now, my friends, Sharpie markers are my nemesis. They come in very cool colors, it's true. They write on everything, and they never wash off. Ever.
So after 3 boys and 1 very cute but very mischievous 3 year old little girl, I am swearing off Sharpie markers. Please empty your pockets of anything that could even resemble a Sharpie the next time you visit.
This is war.
This is in the upstairs hallway - the color is weird - that's
NOT what color my hallway is, but the sharpie color is spot on
(what's with spot on - am I British all of a sudden?)
This is in Noah & Jacob's closet - not even her own closet - she had to
go and mess up somebody else's wall!
Now, my friends, Sharpie markers are my nemesis. They come in very cool colors, it's true. They write on everything, and they never wash off. Ever.
So after 3 boys and 1 very cute but very mischievous 3 year old little girl, I am swearing off Sharpie markers. Please empty your pockets of anything that could even resemble a Sharpie the next time you visit.
This is war.
This is in the upstairs hallway - the color is weird - that'sNOT what color my hallway is, but the sharpie color is spot on
(what's with spot on - am I British all of a sudden?)
This is in Noah & Jacob's closet - not even her own closet - she had togo and mess up somebody else's wall!
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Noah's new skill
First an update. After 9 months, we have finally found someone to do Noah's autism evaluation!!! I am ecstatic that after much fighting with insurance and a well-known clinic downtown, I found a pediatric neurologist who has diagnosed many kids in our area - and we aren't on a year long waiting list! We have an actual appointment March 4! Whooooo hoooooo!!!
Noah continues to amaze me, though, with his intelligence, wit, and thoughts. The other, day out of the blue, he says to me "will I have this hair my whole life?" I said "yes, you probably will." He said "whew. I sure don't want to wear a wig like George Washington!" :) He was very serious - which makes me laugh even more.
A few months ago, he decided to show off his new talent to us. Evidently, in his spare time, Noah had been learning to breakdance. Or as he put it "hip hop dancing." He is now king of hip-hop.
Here he is showing some of his mad skillz. (**Yes, the lampshade is crooked. Yes, it's broken. No, I will not spend money to buy a new one until I'm guaranteed that the monkeys will not destroy it.**)
***updated to add: some of you have expressed concern that we think Noah has a future as a dancer. Let me assure you this is not the case. :) Noah, however, is very serious with his breakdancing which makes it even funnier.***
Noah continues to amaze me, though, with his intelligence, wit, and thoughts. The other, day out of the blue, he says to me "will I have this hair my whole life?" I said "yes, you probably will." He said "whew. I sure don't want to wear a wig like George Washington!" :) He was very serious - which makes me laugh even more.
A few months ago, he decided to show off his new talent to us. Evidently, in his spare time, Noah had been learning to breakdance. Or as he put it "hip hop dancing." He is now king of hip-hop.
Here he is showing some of his mad skillz. (**Yes, the lampshade is crooked. Yes, it's broken. No, I will not spend money to buy a new one until I'm guaranteed that the monkeys will not destroy it.**)
***updated to add: some of you have expressed concern that we think Noah has a future as a dancer. Let me assure you this is not the case. :) Noah, however, is very serious with his breakdancing which makes it even funnier.***
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