Mom2Max&Alex

Sending you to my new home!!

2010-06-11T13:51:00.002-04:00

I realize its's already half way through the year, but since school just ended, I feel like this is a good place to start. I am going to begin a new blog to cover the boys' school years. This will be the last summer that I have a baby at home. Next year I will have a 1st grader and a preschooler. I'm a little bit saddened by that, but I don't want to miss, or forget a thing.

Please visit us in our new home......

http://primebrothers.blogspot.com/

Cranky today

2009-12-09T20:39:00.000-05:00

I worked until noon today. But I went in last night. Weather was crappy, it was busy, and there can't possibly be any more pregnant women in the area. I think we have seen them all in the last few days.

Anyway, two hours of sleep and I'm not in a good mood. I feel bad for the kids. Lucky for them, they are in bed now. Tim is asleep at his desk. What the heck??? I'm running on no sleep and I'm still awake. Haha! It's all good. I'm heading for the couch now!

See you when I wake up. I may hibernate for a very long time!

Did you know...

2009-12-04T08:57:00.000-05:00

That when November ended I was 7 months cigarette free?? Tim is now 7 months tobacco free as well. I'm very proud of us but dang, it is NOT easy!! I think about it everyday and wish I could just have "one" which in my case would turn back into full blown smoking. Remembering Alex picking up a butt and putting it in his mouth makes it easy to make the right decision though.

I have sucked at keeping up in here like I always promise, but I was in the mood for it today. My mom and dad left last Friday for Arizona and they'll be gone until Spring. I sure wish I could go visit them.We'll have to see what happens!

Max is doing great in school and Alex is doing pretty good too at his daycare. His teacher is very militaristic which worried me at first. He behaves so well for her though. And I think he's cracking her too. She said occasionally he will do or say something that just makes her heart melt. He is talking so much and getting so smart since switching daycares! I'm glad we made the move, even if the original reason was to get him closer to home.

I'm sure I have lots more to talk about, but I have a busy day ahead of me now. I'll be back in the near future...hopefully ;)

Update on me

2009-10-17T20:47:00.000-04:00

I can't believe I forgot to mention it, but after two years of being a mother/baby nurse, I am now getting my opportunity to train as a Labor and Delivery nurse. I've been at it for two weeks now and I'm loving every second of it. Most days have been pretty busy which is great for learning. I feel like I'm picking up certain things fairly quickly, and it's taking much longer on other things. I definitely can't imagine ever doing it all on my own, but I guess I will be in about 5 weeks. Wish me luck.

Last weekend my friend Debbie and her two boys came for a visit! The kids had a blast together! We painted and carved pumpkins, made gingerbread scary houses, and spent some time at the book store. Debbie and I got to veg and enjoy each other's company. I did, however, fall asleep on her the night we were supposed to be drinking and having fun. Oops! Hopefully she forgives me.

My mom and dad are here this weekend for Grandparent's day at Max's school. As an added bonus, his class is singing tomorrow morning in church so they are going to go to that as well. Next week it's grandma and Aunt Shannon and then Halloween weekend Uncle Rusty is coming. It has been a busy month, but we are loving it. It's nice to not be so alone on a long Saturday when Tim has to work.

I'm sure I have more video and pictures, but I'm in desperate need of the couch to lay on and my book to read. I'm heading in that direction now, but I'll be back. You can see I'm doing better lately at writing, right?

My Insane Child

2009-10-12T21:48:00.001-04:00

Had a great weekend with my friend Debbie and her boys, but not enough time to write about those details just now. I have a video to share with you proving that Alex is certifiable! I swear if he makes it to his teen years we will be lucky.

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

I made pancakes!

2009-10-08T18:11:00.000-04:00

I know this makes me sound like a horrible mother, but I have never made pancakes for my kids before. I did do waffles about a week ago and those turned out ok, so when they asked for pancakes tonight I decided to give it a shot. I must say, they turned out pretty ok. Neither boy is complaining and they are upstairs eating pancakes and fruit as I type.

Yay me!!

On a normal note, I have almost completed my first week of labor training. I LOVE it!!! I have sooooo much to learn, but I really feel like I'm going to do ok! I hope so anyway, I'll keep you updated on how its going.

That's all for now! Thanks for reading!

As you can see

2009-10-04T15:49:00.001-04:00

I'm still playing with my template. I keep thinking I have a great idea, but then when I get it on here I hate it. Don't be surprised if you see it change again soon because I hate it the way it is now!

Too busy watching the Lions lose to play around any longer today though!

PS, I've lost my blog roll list a few times now and I'm not sure I'm replacing them all each time I redo this thing. Please post a comment with your blog name if I can display you here!

I know you think I'm a slacker....

2009-10-03T13:19:00.000-04:00

But look what we have been up to.

We've been talking about it for ages but one day I finally decided to go out and buy the paint. One thing led to another and now it looks amazing!! Still a few things to add/change, and I've done a few things since these pictures were taken, but right now we love the basement. I've decided I want to do the whole house. Just one room at a time until we are done. No idea where I will go next. I know what I want to do in the kitchen, but I think I'd rather wait til I have some money so I can do it right. That leaves bedrooms or bathrooms. We shall see.

Speaking of bedrooms, we got a new bed too. We have had our mattress set since before Max was born, but never a frame. I was at an antique store with a girlfriend and found this baby for $100. It ended up being $300 after delivery and getting two guys to help us move it upstairs, but it was still 100% worth it.

The boys have been doing great. Alex started a new daycare right before labor day. It's the same company, just a different location. He is doing amazing there. He's potty training...for them...and learning so much. He's doing much better with his behavior too, although he's still a little monster.

Max loves kindergarten. He already has a sub for a few weeks because his teacher had surgery on her knee. We were worried that the change would throw him off but he handled it very well. He's a little too talkative, but otherwise doing well in class and is doing amazing with his writing. Before this year his fine motor skills left much to be desired. I think a big part of his problem is that he'd rather be reading than anything else.

Speaking of reading, I think I mentioned it, but Max has been reading for a long time now. A friend from work loaned me a Geronimo Stilton book last week. It's a chapter book for kids 9-12, but has tons of pictures. Max would never read chapter books because he didn't like anything without pictures. Wouldn't you know, he has 4 of his own now and loves them! I still can't believe my 5 year old is reading chapter books and that he taught himself!

Have I discussed Alex and his love for food? I know I've posted videos of him cooking before. My newest story is about broccoli. He LOVES it! We were at the farmers market a few weeks ago and he had a big soft pretzel, and gummy bears. That was not enough though. When we walked passed a booth with broccoli he started screaming that he wanted some. Of course I had to buy it. People thought I was crazy for not wanting my 2 year old to eat something healthy. Anyway, Tim cooked it up when we got it home and here is Alex devouring it.

There is another video so see dropshots to watch that one as well.

I think that's about all I have for now. I feel like that's a pretty good catch up. I'll promise once again to try to be better about updating! I'm on a weight loss mission right now so maybe as I'm tracking that I can post about it and it'll give me something else to talk about!

Until next time!

Max rode a two wheeler today!

2009-07-12T23:09:00.002-04:00

Can't say it was the first time, because we've had him try a few other times, but today he did it, and he did it well. No falling at the first sign of a curve, being able to turn and stop. He was awesome. I was so proud of him. I think in my frustration trying to teach him before I gave him the idea that he wasn't capable of riding without training wheels. I feel really guilty about that so I tried my best to talk him up and tell him how awesome he was going to be. Tim and I both congratulated him and told him how proud we are of him and that he should be proud of himself. The kid could not stop smiling. It was adorable!! We took him for ice cream afterward and to him that was more fun..but whatever.

Anyway, that was my excitement for the day. Yesterday I had the kids out in their new pool. They played for quite awhile before I decided to get the camera so I don't have much, but they definitely had fun. I wish we had a big pool. Next house for sure!

Hmm, what else to talk about. Have I mentioned we got mountain bikes? I'm pretty sure I did. When we first went out it was just a regular bicycle trail. Easy, but turned me into a whiner. Haha! Last Monday he took me back to Potato Creek and we did the mountain bike trail. Holy crap did I not know what I was getting myself into. It was all out in the woods on a foot wide trail with tree roots and rocks everywhere. I ended up having tons of fun, but for the first 3 or 4 miles I was totally freaked out that I would fall and kill myself. Tim talked me through all that by telling me that I was in control, not the bike. When I finally believed him it got alot easier. It was a 6.6 mile trail and fortunately the second 3 went much faster than the first. I can honestly say I need to do that "easy" trail again before I take on anything more difficult, but I love that we are getting into biking!

I feel like I should update on Alex too. What can I say, Alex is Alex.....and he's 2.5. I hate 2.5. He is whiny, cries at the drop of a hat and I'm pretty sure he does it on cue to get what he wants. Makes me absolutely insane. He throws tantrums and expects everyone to do what he wants when he wants it. He is also extremely bossy, but when he's yelling orders it's quite clear he's been listening to Tim and I giving orders to Max. It's pretty funny, but not all at the same time. I love that he is still my little cuddle bug, but I'm ready for him to grow up just a little and be able to use words rather than whines to tell me what he wants. Max picked up on that a whole lot quicker than Alex seems to be. He will still eat pretty much anything you put in front of him, but for some strange reason he wants nothing to do with a few items that normal kids would love. It's too cute. He prefers broccoli to ice cream. It's very strange to someone like me to doesn't like much of anything.
Here is a video of him, both kids actually, at the park today. You can hear Alex bossing Tim around.

Well, I guess I'm just making small talk now. Not much else to talk about that I can think of off the top of my head. I've got some videos uploading now and they'll be ready before I finish this post. See a few others at the picture/video link to the right. I couldn't wait for them all ;) Hope you enjoy!

I just realized...

2009-07-05T22:22:00.002-04:00

That I never told the details of cutting off my finger and I'm sure people are wondering. I was slicing cucumbers on a mandolin that night, getting ready to leave for work. For some reason I knew I was getting close to needing to move my hand, but I didn't. The rest is history. I grabbed the phone and went to the sink. Called Tim first as I was running cold water on it. That just made the sting worse. I seriously thought I would die from the pain. Tim said keep pressure and eventually it would stop bleeding. Yeah, um, it didn't, no matter what I did. Called work (I was mandated off anyway, thankfully) and then my mom. She said it sounded like I would need to go in and have either gel foam put on to get the bleeding to stop, or silver nitrate. Wouldn't you know those were the two options the doctor offered. Luckily the foam worked and I didn't need the silver nitrate. At my mom's urging, I got the tip of my finger on ice and took it with me. The doc said it would make a great biological dressing if I let him sew it back on, but that it would not survive and would still turn black and die. Um, NO THANKS!! I opted not to go through having it stitched back on, but now I'm wishing I had. I didn't realize how painful it would be to have all those nerve endings exposed. I leave it open to air at home and cover it when I go out. Seems to be healing and the pain comes and goes. I'd rather it just go.

So, there you have it. The reason Tim doesn't let me cook, and keeps me away from all of his good kitchen stuff ;). I am a complete idiot when it comes to the kitchen. Lesson learned. It'll be a long time before I cut anything again!

We had an awesome 4th of July but those details will have to come tomorrow. I'm a day late and a dollar short with everything lately. There are tons of pictures, but they are still on the camera so I'm going to try to get to that tomorrow.

Have a good night!

Just in case you were wondering

2009-07-03T21:55:00.002-04:00

My finger is finally feeling better! I seriously think that was the worst pain I have ever felt for the first few days.

Otherwise I don't have a whole lot to talk about. I did get my birthday present early though! Tim has been dying to get us "good" bikes so we finally went today and picked a set out. Then we drove to Potato Creek which is a state park near here. We road for about an hour and a half and I'm thinking now that I may not be able to sit tomorrow. I'm excited though. Tim wants to make us an extreme couple to get us out of the house more!

Tomorrow is going to be a big day. I love July 4th. Almost as much as Christmas if not more. We will probably just hang out with the kids during the day. In the evening we are doing a cookout with a few of the neighbors and then fireworks in the backyard. Tim and Dave are going to get them tonight so I'm hoping they come back with a few hours worth ;) Haha! I'm guessing once they get drunk the time it takes to light them will get longer and longer. We had so much fun last year so I'm sure it'll be tons of fun again this year! Plus, I'm looking forward to the yummy food!

I'm sure I'll have pictures to post tomorrow. I need to head to bed soon for tonight.

I had an accident

2009-06-30T11:49:00.002-04:00

And cut off the tip of one of my fingers! OOPS!! Anyway, its tough to type, but I didn't want to leave everyone hanging when I said I'd post more so I figured I can at least come post some recent pictures! We went to Chicago on Saturday with grandma and have also been playing out in the yard alot.

Hope you enjoy and I'll be back again when I can type with all of my fingers to give you more details!

Don't know why this is so blurry but here are the boys fighting over their new toy!

Alex being insane! He did this several times before I thought to get the camera. In the beginning he always landed in two feet without falling

Standing on the moon

Lots more Chicago pictures at dropshots but my finger is tired ;) Check them out!!

Ok, I'm back

2009-06-21T12:03:00.004-04:00

I've slacked long enough. I'm sorry to those of you who still check in with me. I promise to try to do better, but don't hold your breath ;) Lots going on lately. The first week in June Max went camping at Gun Lake with my parents. He had a really nice time. Tim, Alex, and I went the next weekend to pick him up and we all had fun too. I have some great video of the boys on the tube behind the boat.

I've also been working a lot the last week or two, but before that I was volunteering to be off as much as possible. I know I should need the money, but I just hate going in at night. I wish ever day that a day position would open up somewhere.

Tim has been working a ton too. He'll get nice 3 or 4 day stretches off, but then he'll have to work for 11 days straight. He had to let his assistant go due to the economy and that really stinks for us.

Hmm, what else. I walked in a 5K with my neighbors and some of their family members. That was pretty fun. Definitely a day I enjoyed.

Here are some pictures and videos to tide you over until I can get the blog looking pretty and post more often.

Alex and Papa fishing.....or trying to ;)

Alex pushing Max on the swing. This did not end well, haha. Alex ended up on his butt because he doesn't know to move after he pushes.

Can you see the purple tinge to his skin? He was blue but didn't want to get out.

Come and try to get me

The three boys wrestling.

Max on the tube all by himself.

Daddy taking Alex for a spin

Chilling out sporting his "Life is Good" T-shirt.

And that's about all I've got for now. I have laundry to do today and seeing as Tim will be home in a few hours and the house is a mess, I should probably get to cleaning. I do promise to try to post more and I even have more video on my camera right now. I'll get it in here as soon as I can!

Under Construction

2009-05-29T19:09:00.000-04:00

If you see this blog and it looks all funky with the template, I'm working on it. Be patient and I promise it'll look normal again ;)

Picutres....Finally

2009-05-26T21:27:00.002-04:00

Lots of good ones of late, with stories to tell too. So far we have really been keeping busy this spring. Tim has done an amazing job with the yard. I really need to get some pictures so we can share that as well.

This is Max's last week of preschool and I'm getting kind of sad. My baby is growing up and going to kindergarten next year :( He is really looking forward to it. For the summer he's going back to Starz Daycare and I know he's excited about that too. I keep giving him other options, but thats where he wants to be. He starts there in two weeks. First he needs to go camping with my mom and dad up at Gun Lake. He is very excited about that. He is going to try to learn to ride his bike without training wheels before they go. I'm not going to hold my breath though.

Alex has become quite the monster lately. Definitely all 2 year old. He is very cute which makes it hard to stay mad at him. You'll see from some of the pictures. Haha!

Here he snuck downstairs when he was supposed to be sleeping. In trying to keep quiet and not get caught, he fell asleep.

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Here I believe he had been eating candy, and then later some dirt or something outside. In any case, he was a mess. It must have been fun though because he was crashed out.

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Here is a video of him cooking with Tim. Don't freak out when you see him by the stove. This is a very common occurrence and he's quite good at not touching anything he shouldn't.

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Memorial Day we took the kids to Indiana Dunes in Michigan City. They had a blast. It was cold, windy, and the water was frigid, but I have never seen them have so much fun. Tim taught Max how to skip rocks and Alex enjoyed just throwing them. Towards the end, Tim took them up the big dune hill and let them run back down. I got some great video of that.
Going up

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing
Going down

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing
And a few pictures of the day

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

And you get the idea. If you'd like to see the rest of them, and a few more videos, visit our dropshots site. I have them all posted.

I'd love to stay and post more, but I just found out I have to go into work at 3am. I should really get some sleep before then ;) Sorry it took me so long to update and I'll try not to do that anymore!

Yikes!

2009-05-09T22:35:00.004-04:00

I had no idea it has been almost 2 months since I've posted anything. I didn't mean to do that. Time has just gotten away from me lately. Between work, kids, sleep, and the beautiful weather, I haven't been on the computer much and when I am, I'm not in a posting mood.

Anyway, just wanted to stop in and let you know that I have some great videos of Alex helping Tim cook, some cute pictures Max took when he had my camera, and one of Alex asleep on the stairs. I promise to take some time to get them on the computer tomorrow and do a real post with catch-ups and everything!

Thanks for your patience and sorry for my absence!

Spring Fever

2009-03-25T16:24:00.002-04:00

I haz it!

I love winter. I love the snow, and even the ice as long as I don't have to drive on it. It makes for some beautiful pictures. But there is just something about springtime. I was driving home from taking Max to school this morning and I all of a sudden wanted to start painting the shutters on my house. It was windy today, but nice and warm. I have NEVER wanted to do anything outside. I much prefer the indoor projects, but it has been so beautiful the last week.

I do dread the coming of summer and the heat with humidity, but spring can get here quickly and stay forever!!

Our first Spring project

2009-03-24T15:23:00.002-04:00

Tim took this past weekend off and I only worked Friday night so we had plenty of time to enjoy the nice weather together. Saturday he power washed the front of the house and tidied up the front porch area. Sunday, we painted. Here are some before, during, and after pictures.

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing
Our little helper

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing
Done, but not cleaned up yet

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Max enjoying the weather on Saturday

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Saturday night we had a bonfire with Dave, Cindy, and Alli! That was really fun. Max got to stay up a little late and he and Alli played with glow bracelets. Then off to bed for him and the adults got to chat around the fire, eat a few marshmellows, and have a few drinks. It was so relaxing. I can't wait until summer when we can do that more often. 4th of July will be very fun too since Dave and Tim are already discussing what they are buying and doing for fireworks. Bunch of big kids that they are ;).

This is Alex from the previous weekend.

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing
That weekend Tim did all of the yard work, including picking up sticks, trimming bushes, removing leaves from everywhere, and stuff like that. Alex helped the entire day and did not nap. He crashed out sooooo hard when I finally dragged him inside. He did however wake up before we went to bed. I never heard him, but this is how I found him

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing
There are a bunch more pictures on Dropshots of Tim and the boys enjoying outside that weekend. A few of Alex having "I need a nap" meltdowns too. Check them out if you have some time.

I also have one video to share. Alex has been rollerskating. He's quite good actually!

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Tim was on TV this morning!!

2009-03-12T15:25:00.003-04:00

The local news did a St. Patrick's Day segment and visited Tim's pub to talk about a recipe they are running as a special. He cooked it up live so of course we had to TIVO it. Max was ecstatic to see it when he got home from school. I was impressed myself. No stuttering or looking nervous. It was like he had been doing it all along. I've been trying to find the segment on their website so I can post a link, but so far it's not there. GRR! I'll keep checking, maybe it'll be there in a day or two. For anyone who might be interested, here is the recipe

Guinness Braised Beef Short Ribs
Ingredients

10# Beef Short Ribs
1 # Diced Onion
8oz Diced Carrots
8oz Diced Celery
6ea Bay Leaves
2c Tomato Paste
15ea Black Peppercorns
1 Bunch Fresh Thyme
1qt Water
1 Can Guinness
2c Port Wine

Process
Brown short ribs in skillet on all sides, add vegetables, bay leaves, peppercorns and tomato paste, when vegetables begin to brown add Guinness and Port Wine, Reduce liquid by 2/3 add water, cover and simmer in 275 degree oven for 2-3 hours.

This looks slightly different than what he did. He used chicken stock rather than water, and mentioned a 300* oven on his segment. He served it with horseradish mashed potatoes and baby carrots and green beans. I'm telling you, I usually hate short ribs, but seeing them all cooked up sure made them look yummy! Hopefully he brings me a bite home, but I won't hold my breath.

I'll keep checking for them to have the video online and if they ever add it, I'll make sure to post it here. Maybe he can figure out how to get it from the TIVO box onto one of the computers. That would be awesome!

I have to go get Alex from school now, but I just had to share the exciting news!!

Hi, remember me?

2009-03-07T15:39:00.002-05:00

Haha, I've seriously been a slacker lately. Not just with the blog, but with everything. Work has not been the greatest, Max has been difficult to control, and Alex is definitely in his terrible twos. Dealing with all of that has made me slack off on what should be important...updating my family and friends.

Last weekend we headed up to Bay City for grandma and grandpa's birthday. We had a very nice time and the boys loved playing with their cousins. They spent the night with grandma and grandpa on Saturday so Tim and I could go out. That was awesome. The bars were kinda boring, but it was a nice time. We hung out with an old friend of Tim's and then a guy we both used to work with showed up for a little while. Always nice to see him.

Otherwise, there really is nothing new going on. We just sit around the house all the time and it's getting old. I'm looking forward to the nicer weather so we can get outside more and maybe take the kids to the zoo or other fun places. I'm even considering taking them to McDonald's for dinner tonight just to get us out of the house. How scary is that.

Oooh, I guess there is a highlight. Tim and I decided we are taking a vacation this year...without the kids. Not sure where or when yet, but it's in the works. Maybe a long weekend or something. Vegas has been tossed around which I think would be a lot of fun, and more affordable than many other places I'd like to see. If you have any awesome ideas, let me know!

I added quite a few pictures to dropshots last weekend in case you haven't seen them. I'm a bit too lazy to add them here, but don't forget to check them out! Some of the kids playing outside, and others of them just being their cute selves!

Later!

I'm still working out

2009-02-25T14:27:00.002-05:00

Can you believe it? I can't. It's so not like me to be motivated like that. I slept all day today in preparation for work tonight and then got up and did some kettlebells. I don't feel anything yet but soreness, but I'm thinking that results will have to show soon. Show or I'll quit and that would be bad ;)

We are still working with Max through his "meds not quite working" phase, but on the whole he is doing much better. He started Zoloft last weekend to replace his prozac and that has definitely helped his out of control meltdowns. He still has way too much energy, but from what the doctor says, the energy isn't going to go away with Straterra anyway so we just use it for good as often as possible.

Alex is Alex. He has been spending time in the older two classroom at school this week. I think he really enjoys it. He's all happiness when I pick him up but still quite the little monster at home. Whatever Max has, Alex wants. It's not pretty, but we are slowing learning to distract him.

I have quite a few pictures to post, but they are still on the camera and I don't have time before I go get Max. Krystle came this past weekend to stay with the boys while I worked and Tim had them outside in the snow on Sunday. It was a really good weekend and I am very sad that I had to miss it because I slept all day. It has been quite a while since I worked 3 in a row and it almost killed me, but I made it. Have to get used to it since Krystle thinks she'll be able to do this every 3 weeks. Yay!!! It's nice to have two weekends in a row off now instead of working someone else's Saturday to get my Friday off.

Hmm, as I'm thinking about what I'm typing, I realize it's probably pretty boring to everyone. Life has been so busy lately there just isn't anything super exciting to talk about. Hopefully when I get the pictures on here that'll make it more exciting.

I'm out for now, but you can bet I'll be back! Hopefully sooner rather than later!

Day 3 of working out

2009-02-17T23:29:00.003-05:00

And I feel awesome! Still a little sore in spots, but it's a good sore. I know it's working. I definitely don't hurt nearly as bad as I did yesterday, and I can walk up and down the stairs without wanting to cry. I'm so proud of myself because I don't know that I have ever stuck with anything so long before ;)

In other news, I'm going shopping tomorrow with two friends from work and looking forward to it. On Thursday Max and I have his first counseling appointment, only I forgot to get a pre-approval from the insurance company so hopefully I can do that tomorrow. Friday Krystle, and probably Bill, will be here to watch the kids for me this weekend. I have to work all 3 days and without them, I wouldn't be able to sleep on Saturday. What nice siblings I have!! Tim will be around in the evenings so maybe someone or two will be able to get out of the house. That would make me very jealous, but what can I do? Hope to VEX. Haha!

I'll update on Max as soon as I know more. Meds still don't seem to be doing much, but Tim has been doing some amazing discipline which seems to be helping some. I hope the combination kicks in soon because he is definitely having a rough time at school and I do NOT want him to lose the friends he has made because he can't control himself. That would make me very sad.

Have a good night!

Just thought I would share

2009-02-15T16:59:00.002-05:00

Tim made me crab dip because I asked nicely and it was soooo yummy! I have really missed it. We didn't even get to use fresh crab because I don't think they have that in the midwest ;), but it was still good.

The boys have been fighting all day and they are driving me nuts. I remember Bill and Rusty fighting all the time, but it seemed different. Maybe because it wasn't my problem? Haha! Alex is a little terror! Max is having a hard time without working meds, but at least he tries sometimes. Alex just antagonizes and screeches, and makes me crazy. I do love them both. I wouldn't trade them for the world even on the worst day. I do threaten to sell them daily though.

I guess I don't have much else to talk about. I need to do my work out but Max is watching Dungeons and Dragons. As soon as he's done, I'll do 20 minutes or so and then hit the shower. Shortly after will be bedtime. Yay!!

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T15:19:00.003-05:00

I'm spending it alone with the boys because Tim has a big dinner at work tonight. The day is lasting forever!

Lots of new developments. A few weeks ago, Max's teacher pointed out that she didn't think his meds were working very well anymore. I noticed at home too, but I attributed that to me just being tired and cranky all the time. Anyway, I called his psychiatrist and we changed him to Focalin. Well, that didn't work either. He was horrible on it and didn't sleep at night. We lasted a week and I had to call back because we were miserable. This time we are trying Straterra. I've never wanted to go that route because I am a fan of the stimulents, but with Max being so little, we don't have many options. He still only weighs 38lbs which is what he weighed at his 4 year check up too. Anyway, the Straterra was making him sleep in school, and not so good at night so they recommended we give it to him at night instead. We still have not noticed it helping, but he has only been on it a week and we have to give it at least 4 before deciding it doesn't work. The next 3 weeks are going to be the longest of my life.

Alex is moving up to the next classroom at daycare in the next few weeks. I'm really happy about that. He is one heck of a bullyl lately and I'm so afraid he's going to hurt one of the younger kids. He's doing really well there, though, and Tim said it has been much easier lately to drop him off in the morning. He still cries for me, but I'm sure it's because he'd rather I not leave.

Tim has been working a ton this past week and they are trying to make cuts at his hotel. Luckily everyone loves him so his job is pretty secure. It's stressful for me to work at night, sleep during the day, and deal with the kids so much on my own, but I'll survive. The older Alex gets, the harder it gets because he is quite the little demon! He gives a whole new meaning to terrible twos. Max threw tantrums, but Alex screams, says NO, hits, and has no reservations about anything at all. He'll jump from any height and climb on anything he can. He can pretty much kick Max's ass at this point.

I decided to start making some changes. With the few days of warm weather that we just had I kinda got a bit of spring fever. I'm starting a Homeowner's Notebook to have handy around the house. Addresses, phone numbers, tracking bills, to-do lists, home improvements that we want to make, emergency info and stuff like that. It's a long project but it gives me something to do to fill the time.

I've also decided that I HAVE to start working out. On one of the message boards I read, the women have been discussing kettlebells. I had never heard of them before, but people were saying they noticed a difference in the first 2 weeks. Exactly what I was looking for. Even if I don't lose weight because I gain muscle, my flabby self is ok with that. I ordered one from Amazon and it arrived this morning. Holy shit am I sore!! I only did one of three workouts on the DVD that came with it and I feel like I can barely move my arms and legs. I guess that means it's already working though. I'm hoping to do a little each day and build up to doing longer sessions. I'm thinking if I was physically healthier I might be happier with myself.

I'm also trying to get a budget going. Unlike many people today, we both have pretty stable jobs but I hate the debt that lingers. We were doing so good for so long until we moved. My goal is to live like we don't have any money, get rid of the debt, and then we'll finally be able to live with the money we do have! Not sure if that even makes sense, but it does in my own head ;)

I guess that's about all I have for right now. Alex is jumping on me and it's making typing a little difficult. I had Max take a before picture for my workouts. I'm not posting it now, but if I do start seeing changes, watch for it because I'll definitely post it then.

Peace out and have a good Valentine's Day!

Sorry I've been so bad about updating!

2009-02-02T14:29:00.002-05:00

Between us all being sick and work, I've just been tired all the time and barely on the computer. I just got over the stomach flu yet again, but it seems so far that everyone else has been spared.

Last weekend I took the boys and we went up to Bill's house in Grand Rapids. Had a blast. Alex got to go sledding in Bill's backyard, and Max mostly hung out in the house shooting his new nerf gun. I went out Saturday night with Bill, Krystle and Rusty and we had a ton of fun. The only thing that would have made it better was Tim being able to come with me. Hopefully next time.

Not a whole lot new to report. The kids are growing and changing so much all the time. I'll need to post the details on that soon but I have to go get Max in a few minutes from school so I don't have enough time now. I also have some pictures of them from last weekend and a ton of pictures that Max has taken. I think he desperately needs his own camera ;)

Anyway, thanks for your patience and keep checking back because I promise to be a better blogger in the near future!

Another trip to the ER

2009-01-23T20:04:00.003-05:00

And you guessed it, it was Alex again. He and Max were wrestling. Alex was the instigator as usual. Max finally got pissed off enough and shoved Alex. When he fell (I was on the computer and not watching) he must have landed on his left arm. He was favoring it like crazy, crying if I tried to touch it, and just basically freaking out. I called my mom and she said he definitely could have fractured it so off we went to the ER. Tim was still at work and not answering his phone, so all I could do was leave a message.

When we got there Alex was still obviously favoring his arm and not willing to let anyone touch it. They sent us to radiology for x-rays which was horrible and cool. Cool for Max because he got some neat stickers and was able to be in the room with us behind the glass. Horrible because I had to help hold Alex down while they manipulated his arm to get the pictures. Wouldn't you know, as soon as we were done and getting ready to head back to our room, he started moving his arm again and quit crying. I told the tech that he probably fixed it, but he said "NO way."

Sure enough, we got back and the doctor said there were no fractures that she could see. Being that he was using his arm at this point she said the tech probably manipulated the dislocation back into place when he was moving it around. Yay!!! Tim had called and was on his way so I had to call and tell him to just go home because we were on our way. I'm glad it was just dislocated, but dang, I am so sick of going to that hospital when it isn't for work!

I also got my hair cut today. It's pretty cute, much darker than normal, and very short. I couldn't get good pictures by myself and Max wasn't into helping, but here they are anyway...

Hope you like. I'm off to put the kids to bed now. Tomorrow we are heading up to Grand Rapids to see Uncle Bill, Uncle Rusty, and Krystle and mommy needs some rest!

Max on a Mission

2009-01-17T22:24:00.002-05:00

So, tonight Tim made dinner and Alex had to help. He was using tongs to pick up pieces of chicken from the frying pan, helping stir, and just getting in the way. It was adorable to watch. Anyway, after dinner the rice pot was on the counter and he started pretending to add salt, stir, and taste. Tim grabbed the camera to take a few pictures and then I got a short video. Don't worry. I'll post them.

But first, I have to show you what I found on the camera when I went to upload those pictures. This was one of the first nights Alex was sick. Guess Max was bored when he woke up before everyone else.

(in the order found on the camera)

I swear I have never laughed so hard in my life. What an adorable kid! I love that he thought to take pictures of himself first and last. There were a few others that I deleted, but the quality was either really bad, or you couldn't see anything.

And, since I promised, here is Alex cooking.

He started out doing a lot better, but he was sorta over it by the time I started recording. Next time, I swear I'll get the camera right away.

Here's your update

2009-01-15T20:47:00.003-05:00

I now have rotavirus! I could shoot my kid. I know it isnt' his fault, but if he was able to take care of himself I wouldn't have had to and then maybe I would still be healthy. I had to call in sick at work tonight which really ticked me off. First of all, I was just off for 7 weeks. I don't want more time off. Secondly, I just don't want it to get me into trouble. My boss said I was fine on points though and she would much rather I not come in with something so contagious.

Alex seems to be doing better, but he still can't go back to school until his diapers are "normal." Probably sometime early next week. I on the other hand will be going back to work as soon as I feel better. Hopefully by Sunday night! Maybe even tomorrow although I doubt that.

We had Max's 5 year appointment the other day. He did great. He hasn't gained any weight in the last year, but he is getting taller. Because of his ADHD meds and activity level, we weren't really surprised by the lack of weight gain. The doctor gave us ideas to help get some extra fat into him. Butter everything, whole milk, stuff like that. I'm going to give it a shot. Anything to put a little meat on his bones. His vision was perfect, but his hearing was questionable. Makes me wonder if we waited too long to get him tubes when he was younger. It also could have just been wax in his ears, but we will go to an audiologist next week just to be safe. The doctor was very impressed with Max's vocabulary and the fact that he is reading as much as he can. He tries so hard to sound out all of the words, but there are already so many words that he just knows from seeing them. It made me feel pretty good to hear that it wasn't normal. Haha!

Anyway, seems like things in the Prime house may never get back to normal. I hope that isn't true because I'm ready for some normalcy again soon!

Another hospital visit

2009-01-12T21:46:00.003-05:00

And wouldn't you know, it's Alex again. Who else would it be??? LOL. He had a stomach bug over the weekend and couldn't keep anything down for the longest time. Then when he could, he still wasn't drinking much, not peeing, and just looking dehydrated. I took him to daycare this morning thinking he was better and now I feel really bad about that because he is obviously not better. Actually he is, but we are still in the hospital for dehydration. Ugh! I'm staying with him and Tim is at home with Max. Fortunately neither of us had to work.

So, here I sit, watching him sleep, hoping this works. I can't imagine why it wouldn't though because his labs looked great. His lack of a wet diaper does prove that he was at least a little dry though.

I'm off to read my book and hope to get a little sleep tonight. I'm sure I'll be back with an update tomorrow!

Under Construction

2009-01-07T12:49:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to let you know in case you couldn't tell by looking at it.

I just started back to work this week. Only one shift so far, but it has my sleep all messed up again.

Anyway, I was going to change my blog look and lost interest halfway through. I need to keep working on it and change my header picture but it's taking some creativity that I can't find. I promise to get to it soon, and also a new post with updates and stuff.

Love you!

Our Christmas

2008-12-28T09:13:00.002-05:00

We had an awesome Christmas. The boys almost slept in. I think it was at least 7:30 before we headed downstairs. Alex didn't seem interested in much other than his candy and feeding suckers to Spike (our new dinosaur) but Max went right for all of his transformers and other toys. They had a great time. We had breakfast when all the dust settled and got Alex down for a nap. Most of the afternoon was spent playing our new Wii games. Tim and Max tried out Outdoor Adventure while I played on the internet. But they quickly switched to Wii Ski and that has been the biggest hit. Max has been playing for 3 days now. He is getting really good too and comments often that he would like to learn to ski for real. That made daddy proud.

Here are some pictures of the big day.

The before

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

The aftermath

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Checking things out

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

The kids see Spike for the first time

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Another funny with Spike and suckers

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Max's sucker face

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Mommy's turn

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Max playing outdoor adventure....too funny!

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Check out dropshots for even more video of the kids opening gifts and pictures of that morning. Hopefully I'll have more new ones later today when Grandma and Grandpa get here to visit for the week!

Otherwise, not much else to report. Kids are doing well and I'm soooooo ready to go back to work.

Last Saturday night

2008-12-24T10:13:00.002-05:00

Rockapella was in Bloomington, IL. I knew they were going to be there, but never thought I would be able to make it since it's about 4 hours from here. Wouldn't you know, my dear friend Debbie mentioned it and said we could go together and I could stay at her house. Wahoo!!! A night without kids, spent with a dear friend, and I get to see Rockapella too. It doesn't get any better than that! Here are a few pictures from our night

Notice the ice on the trees?

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

My favorite Rockapella guy, Kevin

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Debbie and I with the guys

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Friends Forever

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

All in all it was a great night. We went shopping and to dinner before the show, and there were plans to go out afterward as well. However, mother nature had another plan for us. There was horrible ice and the power went out at Debbie's house. Her husband hooked up a generator so we were able to sleep comfortably, but we ended up not going out. I can't wait to do it again!

Today is Christmas Eve and we really don't have much planned. Alex ended up going to the pediatrician yesterday because he was beyond cranky and not at all himself. He has yet another double ear infection. I am seriously getting sick of them. He would only sleep with us last night and was up at 5am screaming in pain, but refused to take any Motrin. Usually he loves it so I have no idea what was up with that. He has had some now and is in a much better mood. He has eaten a ton of watermelon this morning so I'm guessing that means he is doing better.

Max was sick last week and is doing much better as well. I'm hoping the sickies are gone from our house now for a very long time. We have all had the stomach bug as well as a cold.

Santa is coming tonight and the boys are very excited about that. I'm not sure I'm looking forward to it, but their joy will help make it all that much better. Look for pictures because there are sure to be some good ones.

Yes, I am a poopy mom!

2008-12-18T20:37:00.005-05:00

My baby turned 5 two days ago and I haven't said a word about it. In my defense, I spent his entire birthday in the bathroom with the stomach bug. Here are some pictures to compare.....

Birth

2 years old

And now at 5

I can't get over how much he has changed through the years. He is growing up to be quite the handsome little man. Quite mouthy too, which I'm guessing he gets from me. He had a party on Sunday for his friends and that went pretty well. Unfortunately only 2 kids could come, but the moms stayed as well so that was really nice for me. We discovered we all had 2 year olds as well so playdates would work out well. We are already talking about letting the kids get together over Christmas break.

On Wednesday Max redid his winter program at church for the older people who go during the day. It was nice because both Tim and I got to go. In the afternoon, Alex's daycare also did a Christmas Program. That didn't go over so well. The normally rambunctious 2 year olds did not want to participate in singing or even dancing and hand motions. Alex stood still and chewed on his jingle bells. I'll include a video, but it's very very long. Don't feel obligated to watch the whole thing wondering if you'll miss something. You won't. He pretty much did the same thing the entire time. It was hilarious!

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

And now, slacker that I am, I need to get off this computer and go start addressing Christmas cards. I just got them today and figured I should get them out ASAP and hopefully they'll get to at least a few people before the holidays are over. Hehe!

Night!

Party Weekend

2008-12-13T09:04:00.002-05:00

I think I might be insane. I am driving 3 hours one way to my mom's extended family Christmas party today. While I am very much looking forward to seeing everyone, my children are insane. They have been wrestling and fighting (for fun) all morning and making me crazy. Two more hours til we leave and I'm not sure I'm going to make it. I am looking forward to them being stuck in car seats though!

Tomorrow is Max's 5th birthday party for his friends. We let him invite 7 just in case a few couldn't show up, but so far I have only gotten responses from 2 so it might be a very small party. Easier for me, but I feel bad because he was really looking forward to his friends coming over. I know he'll enjoy the two that will be here though. And with a little luck, a few will show that didn't RSVP.

I have a lot to pack up in the car right now, so I really should get to it. I have no idea what I'm going to wear yet as I still can't wear anything but sweatpants. I am not all that comfortable in jeans, but I swear I would be so happy to wear some now. It has been 3 weeks in sweats and I am getting really over them.

Not much of an update, but at least you know now why I haven't been around all that much. Too much to prepare for, not to mention Christmas right around the corner. Max is redoing his Christmas play this Wednesday and I volunteered to drive. I'm looking forward to seeing it this time without having to watch through a camera!

Happy Holidays and I'm sure I'll have some pictures to post soon!

Our newest family member

2008-12-06T15:37:00.003-05:00

Meet Dexter. Or as Max insists we say, Dex. He is 5 1/2 months old and came to live with us on Thursday. I have to drive up to just west of Grand Rapids to get him, but he is already worth it. So much fun. Both of the kids like to play with him and Max even holds him. I'm sure Alex would but he's too busy getting poked because he likes to pull on the quills. So not nice!

Getting a meal worm from Tim. He doesn't seem to like them much. No interest

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Hand feeding a cricket. Those he does love!!

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

and here he is sleeping in his litter box. Hopefully he eventually uses it for the right purpose

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

And that's Dexter. Don't be too overly surprised if you hear and see more about him in the future. I'm going to take him to visit both kids schools in the next few weeks so that should be interesting!

No other news to report. It's snowing today and no one wants to get dressed or do anything. We've been bumming around all day and now I'm ready for a nap. I'm going to hit the couch with my book and see what happens.

Just a quickie

2008-12-04T22:47:00.009-05:00

Cuz I'm watching ER and typing under the influence...of percocet. I'm still taking about one every night, but during the day I'm feeling ok. I definitely think I've been overdoing it some, and I plan on trying to relax this weekend. Tim is off so hopefully he'll let me. Haha, we shall see, but I won't hold my breath.

Anyway, I got some videos of Max's preschool Christmas play last night. It is a few shorter videos because I had to change positions but hopefully you can still get the gist. Hope you enjoy!

Ok, technical difficulties. For some reason I cannot get the code I need to post directly here from dropshots. Blogger is only letting me do one portion of the video directly with them. I give up. Here is a link to the "day" all the videos are located at. Please visit there and watch them if you have the time. If not, no biggie. I know the grandmas will watch even if no one else does, LOL!

Click here to view videos

Also a picture of Max with a few of his buddies from school

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

So Alex doesn't get slighted in this post, have I ever shared his new favorite food? On the nights where he is cranky and doesn't want to eat, all I have to do is say the word OLIVES and he goes crazy. He would eat a jar at a time if we would let him. It totally grosses me out but its so cute too. Here is a picture of his dinner a few weeks ago.

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing
BLECH!!! And no, that isn't all he had, that was the 10th or 11th serving!

And, on to new pet news. Dexter, our new hedgehog, came to stay with us today. I drove up to Lake Side, which is just west of Grand Rapids, to pick him up. He is the cutest thing ever. Max couldn't wait to hold him and let Dexter crawl all over his legs. Alex thinks its funny to pull on the poor thing's quills which so far has done nothing but get me pricked. Tim decided we should try to put him in his giant ball to roll around the living room so we did. Wouldn't you know he chose that moment to have to pee and take a dump. While I was upstairs cleaning out the ball Tim fed him two freeze dried crickets and then put him back in the cage. Once in the cage he goes right for his hiding spot and I lost my opportunity for a good picture. Hopefully tomorrow when the kids are gone I can get him out and playing for awhile so I can share him with you. I must say I'm pretty impressed that all 4 of us seem to like him. I figured Tim wouldn't have much to say or one of the kids would be afraid of him. Doesn't appear to be the case though.

Anyway, I'm going to finish uploading the videos and then publish for your viewing pleasure.

On my own again

2008-11-30T22:50:00.004-05:00

My mom and dad left this morning and Tim goes back to work tomorrow. I am so not excited about this. Granted, it'll be nice having the house to myself after having guests for almost 2 weeks, but I am not supposed to be driving just yet and I'm not sure I'm ready to tackle the household stuff on my own. Tim has been awesome today though. He did the dishwasher and is even running a load of wash right now. I'm still having alot of pain from the bruising (I assume) and am probably doing far more than I should. I can't help it though. I get so bored just laying around doing nothing. Poor Alex is going to be the death of me. He keeps jumping on my stomach and that has to be the worst feeling in the world. When I scream out in pain he says "Sorry Mommy" and then kisses my head. It's so sweet, but doesn't make me want to kick his little butt any less ;)

Max has his preschool Christmas play on Wednesday and poor Tim has a huge function at work that he can't miss. I'm hoping to be able to video the whole thing so he can at least watch it on the computer. I'll have to call Alli tomorrow to see if she can watch Alex because there is no way I can video with him there, especially since it starts at bedtime. He's going to be very difficult if I have to take him along.

In other news, we are getting a hedgehog! Tim finally agreed, mostly to shut me up, but also because they are non-smelly. I have to be the one to take care of it, but I've been wanting some sort of pet for the kids, and from what I've researched they are pretty good with kids. Not saying it'll be easy, but not as hard as a dog, or as smelly as a cat. I've been looking for one for a few weeks now. Usually you can only get them from breeders, but there was an add in the Grand Rapids Craigslist where someone wants to get rid of theirs because their kids aren't taking care of it. YAY!!! Cheaper than buying it from a dealer for sure and the cage comes with him. It's going to be a 2 hour drive, but without the kids it shouldn't be too bad. I'll be sure to post pictures when he gets here and let you know what we decide to name him. I haven't told Max yet. I want it to be a surprise.

Yesterday Krystle and I put up the Christmas tree with a bit of help from Max and Tim. Krystle also decorated the living room and wrapped all of my presents. I swear she is the best woman in the world for my brother. I hope he smartens up and marries her soon!!

Here is the tree

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Max and his tower

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Alex watching TV

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

And a video of Alex cooking for Krystle and Bill (just like daddy)
Watch Video Here
I can't get the video to post so you'll have to click the link.

Also, since I know some of you are curious, here is my bruise and incision about 5 days after the surgery. The bruise goes down quite a bit further, but I'll spare you a picture of that whole area ;)

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing
My initials are there because I had to mark the site since they were only taking one ovary. I used permanent marker and it wouldn't wash off. It's almost gone now though.

So, there you have it. A nice little update on us. Not much else to tell from now, but I'm sure there will be lots more in December. So much going on!!

Another Update on my Recovery

2008-11-24T13:54:00.003-05:00

I'm doing pretty good. They did end up sending me home on Friday morning because there was no point in keeping me since I was doing so well. I have been doing good since being home too. I'm very sore and coughing is a complete pain in the ass, but otherwise I feel ok. I'm not sleeping very good, but I think that's because I get shooting pains if I turn, and in my sleep I move alot.

Tim and I took Alex to Med Express yesterday because he has not been acting himself. Not sleeping either and I feared an ear infection. I was right (love it when that happens) so he's on antibiotics now. I'm wondering if him not sleeping had something to do with me not sleeping well too. Anyway, he's been having a hard time with me not being able to pick me up, but he is soooo cute about my belly. He keeps lifting my shirt and pulling down the top of my pants to kiss my bruise. He has pushed on me by accident a few times and that sends more shooting pains, but I'll take it over not being able to cuddle with him at all.

Max is handling it a little differently. He pretty much stays away from it. I think he's so afraid of hurting me, and to him it definitely looks scary. He said he doesn't want to see it anymore. We showed him once just so he would know it was there and be a little more conscious of jumping around me. He has been fairly well behaved lately, but somewhat whiny when we ask him to do something he doesn't want to do. I'm thinking that's pretty normal for his age so we just deal as it comes. I'm so proud of how smart he is though. Although he doesn't read yet, he can point out tons of words that he recognizes and there are always a few we had no idea he knew. He is amazing at the new computer game we got him. I wish I could track his progress better because I think he is playing games far past his age level.

Not much else to report I guess. I have pictures of my cyst and the bruise but I won't scare you with the bruise. However, I know there are people who wanted to see the cyst so I'll post it here. If you don't want to look, hurry and click away, although I'm guessing it's probably already too late ;)

Thanks for keeping me in your thoughts during this time!!

This ruler is 6" long to give you an idea of what you are looking at!

Surgery Update

2008-11-21T08:40:00.002-05:00

I should have done this yesterday because I'm sure you were all waiting for it, but I was either too tired, or just not in the mood for typing.

My surgery went very well and my doctor is 99% sure that it is not cancerous. I was quite happy to hear there. They also found a small cyst on my left ovary that didn't seem to be there on my ultrasound so he removed that too, but was able to save the left ovary with no problems.

By noon I was up walking in the halls. By 3 my catheter was out and by 9pm last night I had my IV saline locked. Since my doctor was on call last night and I was a walking fool I saw him several times. He said I was acting more like I was 2 or 3 days post op instead of less than 24 hours. Good, that's how I wanted to be. I hate patients who take forever to heal because they don't do the things they are supposed to do. I started out right away taking oral pain pills instead of the heavy duty stuff in a PCA and that was the right way to go in my opinion.

I'll probably be able to go home today since there really isn't much reason to keep me. However, I guess he had somewhere to be because my doc bolted already this morning. I think he forgot about me. Hopefully he comes back, but it not, I'll just have someone page him to ask. All he really needs to know is how my lab work looks and he can hear that over the phone.

I have a gigantic bruise all across my incision and last night he tried to tell me I was overdoing it a little and probably popping out the stitches just under the skin. Then I realized I'm getting Lovenox (a blood thinner) to ward off blood clots. That causes some serious bruising issues so I'm guessing that the bruise is probably from that and them pulling so much on the skin during surgery. I'm hoping so anyway. He seems to think either way that the bruise will be there for a good long time. I'm going to take pictures so if you don't want to see, either don't check back here for awhile, or post me a comment!! If I get enough comments from people who would be grossed out, I may not post it here. I also have a picture of the cyst they removed. It was as big as a softball or better. I was going to post a picture of that too because it's not all that gross, but again, if you don't want to see it, leave a comment. Otherwise, protect your eyes! I'm morbid and love stuff like that!

So, I'm getting kinda tired. I've been up since 6 because of lab coming in to draw blood and I stayed up way too late last night so I'm thinking I'll probably take a little nap until Tim and my parents get here to visit. I promise to update again soon!!

4 days and counting

2008-11-16T20:45:00.002-05:00

Til my surgery that is. My mom and dad will be here Wednesday night because they want to be here to help me out. My mom of course would like to be at the hospital and I'm sure it's killing her that she can't be in the OR. I know everything will go well, I just hope I'm healthy afterwards so my doctor lets me go ASAP. I do NOT like being a patient!! I am figuring it will be Saturday morning before they release me though.

Tim and I totally purged the house today! It was awesome. I started on the main level yesterday and we continued with the basement today. I threw out 3 bags of garbage yesterday alone and I know Tim did at least one more when he hit the computer desks last night.

Today it was the toys. We tossed several more garbage bags and loaded up the back of my van with stuff I plan to try to sell to Once Upon A Child. Whatever they won't take is going to Goodwill. I just want it out of the house. The basement looks so much better now, and it will be much easier to clean up when the boys make a mess. Not to mention there isn't nearly as much for them to make a mess with! I'm hoping to hit the bedrooms tomorrow, but that'll depend because we have some errands to run. Dropping off the junk and over to the bank. We are finally putting all of our money into one account. It's been in the works for a long time, but Tim had to do some paperwork to cancel his checking before his checks would deposit into OUR account. Now we'd like to open a second savings so we can each have a little of our own play money, and maybe an account for each of the kids. We'll have to see on that one though. I need my credit card to get changed over to my new last name and he needs to get an ATM card. Should be loads of fun.

As for updates on the boys, Alex is a crazy man! He has not been sleeping well lately which means I don't sleep well either. So not fair!! Tonight he and Tim had a wrestling match. I wish the camera would have been nearby so I could video it for you all. He seriously acted possessed. How he did not break a bone with all the jumping and flipping he was doing I will never know. He got a huge red mark on his neck when Tim accidentally close lined him with his hand and even that didn't stop him. At one point he started screaming (with a smile on his face) just for fun which was pretty funny, yet annoying at the same time.

Max is Max. He has been begging to play Tim's computer game all the time for weeks now. Tim finally got smart and found a kids game to replace it. For anyone with computer savvy kids, I highly recommend it. It's from Jump Start and it's 3D World or something like that. He creates his own character and then gets to roam his "world." That's the part he likes best about Tim's character. Along the way they give you "quests" and as you accomplish them you get gems and can buy cool things with the gems. The "quests" are learning games so it's great from every angle. He is soooo smart it makes me ill sometimes. He plays the Kindergarten level and I have no doubt that he could probably do at least the 1st grade level. K is pretty easy for him but it does help him acquire gems much faster that way and I know he likes that.

Well, True Blood is about to start so I have to run. Date night with Timmy! Sundays are my favorite!!

Ooopsie!

2008-11-11T10:43:00.002-05:00

It just occurred to me that I never really mentioned what was going on with Tim and his interview. Probably because nothing is going on. They haven't called one way or the other and I'm getting really frustrated. I've come to the conclusion that he probably did not get the job (lots of politics with the company) but they could at least call and tell him that. All is well since my surgery is next week anyway. The last thing I need to be doing right now is dealing with that stress.

Alex had a 45 minute meltdown this morning stemming from wanting to brush his teeth for about as long. I am not letting him run the water forever, but I guess if I don't I have to watch him kick and scream. Fortunately I didn't work last night and was able to see him through it. He spent some time screaming in his room and that appeared to do the trick. He snapped right out of it when I opened the door after a minute and was ready to go to school. Max used to have tantrums like this too. All the time in fact, but for whatever reason I think we thought we avoided it with Alex. Guess not ;)

I don't have much else right now. We have been bumming around the house lately, but hopefully something exciting will come along soon!

Lots to tell

2008-11-05T14:06:00.002-05:00

First off, my cancer blood test came back negative. Woohoo!! Secondly, my surgery is officially scheduled for November 20th. I'm guessing I'll be in the hospital for 2 days and not looking forward to it at all. I don't "do" patient, but we shall see. My mom is coming down to stay with us to make sure that I have everything I need and Tim can be there for the boys, or vice versa. Hopefully Tim will be able to take a few weeks off too, but he hasn't been able to let me know yet.

Secondly, I had Max's parent/teacher conference yesterday. He is doing GREAT in school. She said he is a joy to have in the classroom, he has lots of friends, and he is very very bright. He keeps her on her toes by pointing out when she forgot something or says something wrong. Poor woman, we go through that at home too. He doesn't forget anything. He has a hard time keeping quiet during listening time, and while he raises his hand, he also starts to answer before he is called on. All things she said she is working on with him and he is getting better. I'm so proud of my little man.

Alex continues to surprise us everyday. I had to lay with Max for a few years until he fell asleep at night. I just assumed it was the same with Alex. However, I started kissing him goodnight and telling him to stay in bed and go to sleep, leaving before he was completely out. Do you know, he hasn't followed me out the door once. HUH?? Also, when we tell him it's time to go night-night, he races upstairs into the bedroom to get his jammies on. Sooooo not what we are used to. Max has always been and still is difficult to get upstairs at bedtime. Alex is a little monster at times, but when you correct him, he's like "ok" and then does what you ask. He is definitely headstrong, but for some reason so much easier to control....most of the time.

Last night was a proud moment for me as a mommy. Tim came home from work and decided to take Max outside to light off some fireworks in honor of democracy. While outside they talked about voting, the president, and stuff like that. When Max came back in he didn't want to go to bed until we knew who the president was. He ended up going. I asked him questions regarding the "talk" from last night and he came up with all the right answers. I was impressed. Hopefully with the next election he can become a little more involved since he'll be that much older. I was also proud of Tim for thinking about explaining this country and the way it runs to a 4 year old. The thought never even crossed my mind.

Hmm, what else. My dad had another heart cath last week because he has been having chest pains. His main artery on the bottom side of his heart was 95% blocked and he never would have survived a heart attack. Silly man for keeping quiet for so long. Hopefully now he understands the importance of speaking up sooner when he doesn't feel right. Fortunately they were able to get in and place a stent before anything bad happened. We love you dad!! Please take care of yourself.

I guess that's about all I've got. I feel like there was more, but now my mind is drawing a blank. I'm sure I'll be back if I can think of some more!

Update on my medical drama

2008-11-01T12:24:00.002-04:00

So, we had planned to schedule my surgery for the 13th, but the OR was booked full so we are going ahead on the 20th of November instead. My doctor said there isn't a need to worry so much about this type of cyst rupturing and that made me feel better. They are doing testing ahead of time to see if there is a likelyhood that it is malignant. Since I smoke that test could come back with a false positive, but it'll let us know ahead what we might be looking at. The doctor also said he'd probably be able to tell once I'm opened up if it looked cancerous or not and would do testing immediately to find out. Not that it would change the outcome much, but it would let us know to do further testing afterwards. Basically, he's pretty sure it's benign, but because of my family history we are covering all of the bases.

So, I'll be off from work for about 6 weeks starting on November 20th. Nice because I'll be home for the holidays, but stinky because it means I'm not going to be making much money. Short Term Disability doesn't pay well and I don't have much of it. In the end, I know I'll be happier being home with my family at the holidays though!! I should start feeling better after a week or two so maybe he'll let me go back to work early. We shall see.

There is my update. Not much excitement or anything.

Last night was a bust. Max started throwing a tantrum two houses out when we went Trick-or-Treating so we came home. He watched TV while Alex and I hung out with the neighbors who awesomely got a little buze into me! Haha! I needed it. It was an enjoyable couple of hours and Alex was pretty well behaved, especially considering the amount of candy he consumed.

Today we were supposed to take Max to a birthday party, but another meltdown this morning got that taken away from him. I talked to his friend's mom and she said would could come by tomorrow. I want to make sure she gets her gift and there is a goodie bag for Max.

He has been really out of control lately and I'm torn between wondering if he's being a normal almost 5 year old or if he needs more med adjustments. We just started Vyvanse a few weeks ago and I'm convinced this one is NOT working because he has definitely gotten worse since being on it. I seriously think we need to start counseling back up to see what's up with us and to know if Tim and I are handling things correctly. I guess only time will tell.

That's about all I have for now. Hope everyone that celebrates had a good Halloween!

I got some bad news last night

2008-10-29T17:06:00.002-04:00

And still no news on Tim's interview. It was supposed to come today so we'll see. The day is not over yet. I'm going crazy not knowing though.

Anyway, on to the bad news. I've been having a lot of abdominal pain and pressure lately. Thought I was pregnant a few times but always negative. I went to the doctor a few weeks ago and he thought my uterus was enlarged and it was probably fibroids. Not a big deal because they weren't causing anything more than a little discomfort. Last week I had an ultrasound but no appointment to find out about it until November 7th. Fortunately my doctor was on call last night and I saw him at the hospital. He printed out the report for me and we discussed it a little. I have a 10cm cyst on one of my ovaries and it needs to be removed. Sooner rather than later as I run the risk of it rupturing and that could cause all sorts of problems.

I'm waiting to hear about Tim's job before I make any quick decisions, but my surgery could be in the next two to three weeks if I can even wait that long. I'm sure it's just nerves, but I've been having a lot more pain today. I was really busy at work last night though too, and that could have something to do with it. In any case, please keep me in your thoughts and prayers. I'm not too worried about the surgery, more the recovery time and the kids because recovery can take 6 weeks. I'll probably feel ok sooner than that, but I won't be able to lift and stuff like that. Not easy when you have little ones.

I'll keep you posted and let you know when I know anything. Thanks for thinking about me!

My baby boy is 2!!

2008-10-26T16:19:00.002-04:00

Here is a glimpse of him two years ago today.

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

with big brother

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

I just can't get over how small they both were. Both have grown up soo much in two years time.

We didn't do anything special today. In fact, I slept almost all day long because I worked last night and I work again tonight. However, I did discover that Alex has heard the three little pigs story a few times. When I was laying down with him at nap time he kept blowing in my face. Then he started saying "Huff....House...." and blowing. It was hilarious! Everyday he teaches me something new. Such a joy and so much trouble all at the same time.

Hopefully the next two years go by a little slower and I can enjoy him a little more before he leaves me to go off to school!

A cute video and some new pictures

2008-10-25T17:11:00.003-04:00

This video is hilarious! Alex was starving, but also ready for a nap

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books
The boys new beds

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books
Opening Alex's Birthday presents

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books
Blowing out his candle

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books
Watching cartoons with Papa

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books
Cooking with Nana

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books
Putting together a puzzle

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books
Wrestling

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books
I let him win

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

And there are several more on dropshots if you want to check them out.

We've had a nice weekend with Nana and Papa. Lots of just hanging out and enjoying the indoors because the weather has been crappy outside. They are leaving early tomorrow morning and I have to go back to work tonight after being off almost all week. It's not going to be fun.

Alex has his two year check up on Monday so I'm curious to see how that goes. Seems like he's doing pretty good and the way he eats he has to be climbing up there on the charts. At one point a year ago I thought he was going to fall off because he was so little.

Max's new med doesn't seem to be working. Then again, we have been cooped up in the house and maybe he just needs to get outside and run out some energy. I'm hoping Tim can take them pumpkin picking tomorrow and that should help. He is listening and following directions, but has crazy amounts of energy and is VERY loud. If we could just control his voice level I think I'd be happy. Who knows, maybe this med isn't right for him either. We are both being very consistent with him and following through when we take things away, but praise for what he's doing right definitely seems to be the key. Like any kid, he loves to know when he's doing something good and when he's being good.

Not much else to report. Hopefully we'll hear about Tim's interview by Wednesday of this week. More details when we finally hear.

No update yet!

2008-10-23T19:53:00.002-04:00

GRR! I was hoping to know something already, but it looks like we won't hear until next Wednesday about whether or not Tim got the job. There is one more candidate to interview and a lot of factors that could come into play. He said he felt very confident in his interviews so we shall see. Please keep your fingers crossed.

The boys are really enjoying having Nana and Papa here. Alex got to help make dinner which doesn't happen very often around here. He was eating green peppers and onions as my mom was cutting them up. EWWW! Then after dinner he had a bunch of green olives. How in the world can he be my kid??

Max had a great day at school today. I'm thinking his new med is going to be ok when he takes the full dose. He's been pretty good tonight too. A few almost meltdowns, but much better than the last few weeks have been.

Tomorrow Uncle Bill and Rusty will be here and the kids are definitely excited about that. Unfortunately Bill has to work on Saturday morning so they'll only be here for the day. He is bringing our old bunk beds with him though so tomorrow night the boys will finally be in bunkbeds. I am so excited. I'll have to get some pictures to share with everyone. Hopefully they both sleep all day and no one falls out.

I'm off to watch Survivor, but I promise to update when we hear something. I'm sure everyone is dying to know where he interviewed, but that shall remain a secret so as not to jinx things!

Think happy thoughts for Tim today!

2008-10-22T10:55:00.002-04:00

He's at an interview all day long! We should know more by tonight. More details to follow. Don't want to spill til we know something for sure!

In other news, visit with grandma and grandpa went well. The boys had a really good weekend. We took them out to dinner on Saturday night and both behaved so well. Alex ate almost the entire restaurant. I swear that kid has a hollow big toe. If Max would eat half of what Alex does he might actually gain some weight.

Speaking of Max, today was his first day on another new medication. I'm hoping it goes ok at school. I was to give him half a dose for the first day to make sure there are no crazy side effects and it's either going to work ok, or he's going to be impossible. I'm hoping it's the former. Tomorrow (if he does ok) we'll go up to the full dose and see how that goes. I'm praying for a miracle because he has been difficult to live with lately. Very impulsive and a little too talkative at school. Such a joy when he's being good though.

Alex will be two on Sunday so we are having my family here this weekend to celebrate his birthday and my dad's which was a few days ago. Bill and Krystle as well as Rusty will all be here. I'm really looking forward to it and I know Max is too. I don't know that Alex will get it until they get here. Mom and dad are arriving tonight. Yay, the house is clean! Now if I can just get the laundry done before they get here.

I have one more week of 8 hour shifts before I switch back to full time and start working 12s again. I'm quite excited about it. I'm thinking it'll be easier because at least I'll be awake and ready to go when I get there instead of ready for bed. The bit of extra money will be nice too.

I guess that's all I have for now. I'll be back to update about Tim as soon as I know more!

Grandma and Grandpa are coming tonight!

2008-10-16T09:11:00.003-04:00

And the kids are pretty excited. Well, Max is anyway, Alex won't be until they get here. I'm happy because I have to work all weekend and now I'll be able to sleep. Woohoo! Win-win for everyone.

I don't really have much to update. Just felt like writing this morning. I have a ton of cleaning up to do and I think I'm avoiding it.

Skunk smell seems to be gone. It has been raining the last few days so I think that helps. We will probably have to powerwash the deck with some cleaner, but it's out of the inside of the house. The deck needs to be powerwashed anyway. It gets moldy pretty easily because there is so much shade in the backyard and it doesn't dry out the way it should.

Max has become a handful again lately. He has been sassy, is throwing tantrums, and is having a very hard time controlling himself. I'm thinking it's time to call his psychiatrist again. I hate to always have to call between appointments, but that's just the way it works out. His current meds are almost maxed out as far as the dosage he can take. I'm pretty sure that a lot of the problem is the fact that his metabolism is so high and he probably processes it differently than he should. I just don't think the Concerta is right for him anymore. Makes me sad because he did so well on it for awhile. I'm also afraid if we change him to something else it will affect his sleep. He already wakes up far earlier than he should even taking melatonin. I know there are sleeping meds we could put him on, but at almost 5 I really hate to keep adding medications. I do want to see him succeed and be a happy little boy though so I do know that this is probably the only way. He gets so down on himself when he can't control his emotions. He can't explain what he's feeling, but I can see that he does not like being out of control. He is such a happy boy when the meds are working and that's what we want for him. I know it's trial and error, but it sure is frustrating.

Alex on the other hand has been pretty good lately. Still gets into everything, but he is getting so good about telling us what he needs. I think his ability to communicate has helped spare the meltdowns that Max had at this age. His 2 year checkup is next Monday and I'm curious to see what they have to say about him. He seems advanced in a lot of ways, but behind where Max was in some ways too. He is a little bully which cracks us up because he is so small compared to the other kids in his class. He picks fights with Max too and generally win.

I guess that's about all I have. I'm just rambling anyway. I'm sure there will be more after this weekend!

Skunk Crisis is over!!

2008-10-13T20:57:00.003-04:00

Don't know if I mentioned, but when we first discovered the skunks, our neighbor, Dave, took a few shots at them. Two different skunks on two different occasions. It appears that the smaller of the two did get hit and crawled under our deck to die. We thought it was living under there and did several things to deter it from coming back when it left at night to feed, but I guess it wasn't ever leaving. Another thing we noticed was that sometimes it smelled really bad during the day, like a fresh spray, even though they are nocturnal. Now it all makes sense.

Tonight, Dave and Tim were discussing ways to get rid of it and while we were inside on our computers, Dave got under our deck with a flashlight and located it. He grabbed a rake and hauled it out, noticing that the ribcage area had been feasted on by some other animal. That would be the possum I saw going under the deck a few nights ago, I'm guessing. Anyway, he hauled it out and dropped it into a trash bag. Then out to the woods to bury it.

Tim and I just came in from trying to clean up the smell. First I dumped some vinegar but that didn't help much at all. Tim used ammonia and febreeze. A whole bunch of each. He sprayed the area down with the hose hoping to get the stink out from under the deck. I'm praying it works because I am OVER skunk smell. I've smelled enough in the last two weeks to last me the rest of my life!!

So, thank you Dave, for rescuing us from the awful smell!! Even if it was you that shot and killed it in the first place ;) At least we know its gone for good now. Hopefully the big guy is out in the woods dead somewhere too.

Have a great night! Tim and I are off to watch Heroes!

Max's Grandparent's Day Program

2008-10-10T11:53:00.002-04:00

He was so cute this morning. Not sure what's up with his nose, because he kept rubbing it all morning, but he says nothing. I'm guessing allergies just like the rest of us.

Anyway, here are a few videos I took since none of the grandparents could be there. They aren't great because of all the people, but you can get the idea.

He was so excited to get to the snack time they had afterward. Once we ate our cookies we got to go on a scavenger hunt around the school so he could show me all the places that he goes during the week. We visited his classroom and he showed me all of his favorite things to do and play with. He was so proud. Anyway, the kids could either leave or stay and he decided to stay. Probably a good thing because I'm taking Alex to the ped this afternoon. He didn't sleep well the last two nights and I'm guessing an ear infection. At least I hope so because at least that's treatable. Haha, how great of a mom am I? I'm sure it's probably just a cold and we'll have to ride it out, but I'd rather know that for sure.

I forgot to mention it in yesterday's post, but we have a skunk! It is AWFUL!! I believe it lives under the deck and has sprayed in the backyard a few times where we can kinda smell it in the house. Last night, it sprayed either under the deck or right near it. The smell is coming in the dryer vents and the back patio doors. The entire first floor of the house stinks and last night Tim and I could even smell it downstairs. I have tons of candles lit today although I'm sure it isn't helping. At least it's masking the smell some so it doesn't make me sick. Blech! If you have any hints on how to get rid of the stink, I'm open to them!

Yeah, I stink!

2008-10-09T17:16:00.002-04:00

There just hasn't been much to talk about lately. I worked mad days this week after being sick all of last week. Tim had regional people at work so he was busy too. Basically walking in the door as I walked out. We definitely didn't get to see each other much. Now I'm off til Tuesday and sooo looking forward to it.

Tomorrow is grandparent's day at Max's school. The preschool kids are putting on a little show and then snacks in the cafeteria. Since he has no grandparents close by he can take a parent or special friend. I decided I'm going to go. I'm really excited about it too. He asked me to tape them singing their song so I can post it for everyone to see. Hopefully it'll be short enough that I can do that. If so, it should be on by tomorrow afternoon. Overall, Max is doing great in school. He loves going and on the mornings that Tim has to drop him off, he walks himself all the way to his classroom. I'm so proud of him doing so well. He loves learning about God and Jesus and comes home talking about them everyday.

Alex is doing pretty good too. He is a totally different kid than Max was at this age. He is definitely a little bruiser. He's a bully and constantly getting into things he shouldn't which has caused lots of bumps and bruises. He currently has a huge goose egg in the middle of his forehead from screwing around at school today. He is just now getting interested in TV and has a few favorite shows that he loves to watch. Blue's Clues is probably #1 which I find interesting since it was Max's favorite show too.

I change to 12 hour shifts in about 3 weeks. Oddly, I'm totally looking forward to that. 3 days a week is going to be awesome, and so are the full time paychecks. The economy has me freaking out about finances and I'll feel better bringing in a little more cash than I have been.

Tim's job is going ok, although the hotel overall isn't doing great. He has been working really long hours though which is hard on all of us. Hopefully things settle down soon and we can do some fun family fall stuff.

Grandma and Grandpa are coming in two weeks and then Nana and Papa are coming the weekend after. The kids don't know yet since that's too long to make them wait, but I know they are going to be excited. Max asks about all of them all the time. And Alex can point the whole family out in a picture now and name them, including uncles.

I guess I've got nothing else. I need to go start some laundry so I'm not doing it all weekend. I have to change the sheets on my bed because someone snuck some midnight apple juice and had an accident on my side. No way I want to sleep in stinky pee ;)

Sorry I've been so poopy at keeping up lately! I'll definitely try harder!! Leave more comments and maybe that will inspire me, haha!!

We've had the sickies!!

2008-10-03T14:36:00.002-04:00

Max got it first. Tim and I took him to the zoo on Monday because he didn't school. It was an awesome day and he was so good. Tuesday he went to school, but seemed a little "off." Tuesday night he started throwing up everything that went in. Poor kid would not listen to me and kept sneaking drinks of water and apples from the frige. He stayed home with me on Wednesday but that was a nightmare because we forgot to give him his meds. Yesterday he seemed quite back to normal.

Unfortunately, that's when I started getting sick. I was up all night last night in the bathroom. I had to call in sick to work the second time in two weeks and I HATE doing that!! Hopefully it doesn't get me into trouble.

I'm feeling a little better today, but not much. Hopefully some food will perk me up some. Tim has been working crazy hours this week because it's end of period and he has some big meals planned for the away team this weekend. Hopefully his cooking will help them beat Notre Dame! Haha!

I need to go get Max from school now. Trying to decide if I want to try to eat or not. Subway sounds sooooo good, but probably not the best thing for my tummy. We shall see. It's going to be a long night because neither of the boys slept much last night. Hopefully they'll go to bed early!

Yes, I am a total slacker!

2008-09-24T21:08:00.003-04:00

Sorry I haven't been around much. Not that I don't have anything to say, I've just been busy. Either working, sleeping, or playing with the kids.

This past weekend I headed up to my mom's for girls weekend. The Shock men and my dad all went hunting (sort of) up in Oscoda, so Liz, Sarah, Michelle, their kids, and my mom and I all got together to hang out. Michelle's oldest daughter goes to Northwood, my first college. They spent much of the weekend visiting with her, seeing the campus, and stuff like that, but we also went to a nearby orchard and the Tridge. The orchard is about 1 mile from my mom's house and I can't believe we have never been there before. It is an older couple that has owned the house/land for years. They also have bee hives and beautiful gardens on thier property. We got some frozen cider, donuts, and just sat around enjoying each other's company. The boys loved running around in the gardens and Max got to learn all about honey bees. He was scared to death, but would not leave the hive area because "I have to learn all about them, mommy!" It was so cute. He held my hand the entire time just shaking away. I bought a big bag of local apples for Tim and the boys (but I must admit I've eaten quite a few myself) as well as a 3lb jar of fresh honey for Tim with part of the comb in it. He was in heaven. I can't wait to go back there next year and hopefully get some pictures next time.

In the evenings after the kids went to bed we sat around watching movies and just hanging out. It was a very nice change of pace.

On the job front, I do have some new news. At least I don't think I've mentioned it yet. One of the girls that I work with who was just promoted to the 7p-7a postion decided to move to the Washington DC area. Since I am next in line as far as Labor and Delivery nurses go, I get to move into her spot. That means back to full time hours and full time pay. Plus I only have to work 3 days per week. I am soooo excited. I believe that schedule starts November 2nd. Alli has agreed to help us out with the boys on the nights Tim can't get home from work before I have to leave. My only worry is that she won't quite be healed enough when I need to start. We shall see as I just got the start date today and I haven't talked to her yet. I know she has a few friends who might be able to help out until she is given the all clear in December.

Hmm, other news. I finally got our professional wedding pictures back. A HUGE thank you to Wendy Bennett who did an amazing job. Here is the link to check them out if you are interested. Be warned, there are over 700 so it could take awhile. I have no idea how we will ever figure out which ones we want to have blown up for around the house.

I guess that's about it for now. I promise to try harder not to go so long in between posts. I'm sure it's not very excited to keep checking in and seeing the same stuff. Love to everyone!

Max's Story

2008-09-09T18:44:00.001-04:00

We are all playing Wii right now so I don't have much time, but Max tells the cutest little story that he learned at school. I finally got it on video and wanted to share.

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Also, his new haircut in case you can't see it from the video

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

That's all for now! Later!

Ninendo Wii

2008-09-08T11:36:00.001-04:00

We finally got one. I've been talking about it for ages but they are never in stock when I'm thinking about it. Lately I've been down on my weight and activity level, so I decided now was as good a time as any. I picked it up Sunday and got Wii Fit as well. That will be my main game to play, but so far, as a family we have done a ton of bowling and a few other sports too.

Max is loving it. He has a hard time not turning his wrist when he throws the bowling ball, but we discovered where he needed to stand to hit the head pin. Now he's bowling over 100 almost every time. I need to get some video of his strike/spare dances. Yesterday he actually got a turkey!! 3 strikes in a row.

This morning was my first day of training with the Wii Fit. I did 30 minutes of cardio and 24 minutes of yoga. I am BEAT!! Definitely a workout but I feel better knowing I burned some calories today instead of sleeping all day or playing on the computer for hours on end. I'm hoping to meet my goal of losing 15lbs in 2 months. I figure if I can get to that point, it'll be easy to stick with it and make it part of my routine. Now if I could just get myself eating healthier I'd be set to go.

Speaking of eating healthier, Tim has been cooking more when he's home. Chicken, fish, stuff like that. Veggies and (hopefully) lower fat sauces. He uses a lot of lemon which is awesome. He knows I want to get healthier and is definitely on board to help. I'm sure he would love it if I'd stop buying junk food and start eating half the fruit that he and the boys eat.

I guess I don't have much else to talk about today. Max has the cutest finger story that he has been telling lately. I had him tell my mom and Chris over the phone, but it is so not the same as seeing it in person. I'm going to try to get some video of him telling the story so I can share it with all of you.

We are also working on "bettering" the house. We changed the boys' bedroom again, to the one further away from ours. Alex sleeps better in there so we are hoping that helps. The big bedroom will become a toy/TV room for when they wake up way too early in the morning, but don't want to head downstairs yet. It helped us get some of the toys out of the basement. They won't be getting a TV until Christmas though. That's going to be thier big gift. I'm just happy we can do this without actually putting the TV in their bedroom.

Opening up the basement a little, Tim decided to rearrange our sectional couch last night. The whole area seems so much bigger now. I love it!!

K, off to shower now and get ready for the afternoon. I want Tim to take me to lunch when he gets home from his conference call and then we'll have to go get the kids. Tonight is my first of 4 in a row, so don't expect to hear from me again very soon, haha!! Love to everyone!!

More Randomness

2008-08-28T11:11:00.002-04:00

Just don't feel like there has been much to talk about lately. I think I've been working too many nights. I'm off for 4 in a row right now though and it feels GREAT!!

I got some cute pictures of the boys last weekend. Max has by dying for "Blendy Pens" which are markers that you can blend together to make cool pictures. I found them at Meijer so of course got some to help keep him busy. I also got some bingo daubbers for Alex. He played with the at Debbie's and loved them. Guess what....Paper isn't as fun as your body!

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

and then that evening I found some cool clouds outside our house. Had to take a picture or two. Actually there were about 10, but I won't bore you with all of them ;)

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

We also did some last minute, winter clothes, shopping for Max because there was a 30% off (additional) coupon I had to use as well as $40 in giftcards to Gymobree. They had some pretty cool Halloween pajamas so of course I had to buy the boys matching sets. Max loves it when they wear them together, and Alex just likes whatever Max likes.

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Max is doing great at school. He still comes home everyday saying he loves it. When I dropped him off this morning he was pointing out all of his friends to me. I think it was the best decision we ever made for him. He does mention that he misses his friends at Starz, but he goes with me everyday to pick up Alex so he does get to see them. Always tons of hugs!! Yesterday he and his "girlfriend" Megan had eye lock for what felt like 10 minutes. It was intense to watch, and very cute. A little weird though since he's only 4. They hugged like old times though. I am sure he can't wait until winter break so he can go back and play with them all for 2 weeks.

Tim and I are doing great. He got a bike for his 15th anniversary from Marriott so I had to get one for myself. Last night we hooked the bike trailor up and took the kids around the neighborhood. I was so tired when we finished, but at the same time it felt great to do something that was excercise. Now I can hopefully keep at it and make it something that we do regularly.

Off to clean up the house and work on my thank you cards now. I got them started, but I really need to get them finished and in the mail! Hope everyone is having a good week!

Random Stuff

2008-08-22T08:28:00.002-04:00

Today is our two week anniversary! Yay!! We made it this far, haha! I found a bunch of pictures on my camera last night when I was uploading Max's first day of school pics so I thought I'd come share some of those in addition to telling you about Max's first day.

I took the night before off so Tim and I could both be there to drop him off. He was pretty excited about going and didn't really seem apprehensive at all. I'm thinking it was definitely harder on me than it was on him. Anyway, we parked at the school and took him in. I got a few pictures of him walking in, and then another by his hook where he keeps his lunch box and backpack. He also has a bin to store his napmat although they don't take naps...just a rest. We took him into the classroom where he went straight to the morning circle. Tim had to chase Alex around while I dropped off all the last minute paperwork. When I went to tell him goodbye all I got was a smile and a "see you later." No hug, kiss, or anything like that. Isn't he supposed to be scared? Or sad?? Guess not :(

Here he is with Alex just before we left the house

And walking across the parking lot

At his hook

And in circle time

Such a cute kid!! Too bad he's growing up so fast. When I picked him up that first day he said he had a great time and that he made a lot of new friends, but wouldn't name any names or give me any details. He did say that he learned a prayer and talked about Jesus. He is so cute when it comes to Jesus. Must be because he doesn't get any of that info at home, but he is VERY interested!! I'm sure it will make Nana very happy! He did mention that he missed his friends at Starz and couldn't wait to go get Alex so he could see them. He was NOT happy that they were in music class and I wouldn't let him interrupt. He did get to see them all yesterday though and he was so excited!! Lots of hugs all around.

The awesome news is that Connie, the director, said that they can be my backup, keeping him at winter and spring break as well as next summer. I know he'll love that!! When he was crying about missing his friends I asked him if he wanted to quit "Jesus school" (as he calls it) and go back to Starz. He was like, "Heck no!! I just miss them, I don't want to leave my school." He told Tim last night that his new best friend is Zack. That's the first name he's given although he did say he knows everyone's names.

I guess that's about it for school news. Here are a few pictures from the last few weeks!

Video of Max helping daddy make breakfast

The boys when they were both sick

Alex wearing mommy's shoes

The ring bearers

Naptime

Rehearsal

I guess that's about all I have for now, as if there aren't enough pictures. Just wanted to do a quick check in since I haven't updated in awhile. My goal now is to spend the rest of the day picking up the house and finishing the laundry that I started when we got home from the wedding. Talk to you soon!

Not totally wedding related..but

2008-08-16T11:33:00.002-04:00

Debbie got some awesome shots of rainbows on her way to MI for the wedding. It stormed good on Thursday and I'm guessing there were several. I even remember looking for one at Tim's mom's house when the sun finally came out.

On the way home from MI back to IN we had some more storming. Tim called me to point out there were rainbows off to the left of us and to show Max. Since he had the camera in his truck I told him to find it and take some pictures. He got a few good shots as well.

Check them out!

Debbie's picture from Thursday

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

And Tim's picture from Sunday

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Here is another of the sky so you can see the view we had. I was definitely distracted

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

And lastly, the kids crashed out in the back of the van

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Just thought I would share ;)

Picture Overload!

2008-08-15T14:10:00.002-04:00

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books
Watching TV last night

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books
Night before the big day!! No mistakes here....we are in love!

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

If you want to see the rest, just go check them out! Too many to post here obviously but the new ones I just added are amazing!! More to come in a few weeks too. My mom's friend Diane took tons of pictures and dropped a CD off at my mom's yesterday. I just have to wait for someone to come home and send it to me. My professional pictures probably won't be back until the end of September or early October, but I'm really excited for those too. She got some amazing shots of Tim and I at the River Walk that no one else was there for.

Out for now....Sorry to overload you, but I am still so excited that we are finally married and have to share memories from our awesome day!

YIKES!!!

2008-08-15T12:46:00.002-04:00

I just found another 250 pictures. My mom's neighbor, Bridget, is going to school for graphics design and she took a ton. She has been playing with them and posting them on her myspace page. They are amazing!!! Anyway, last night I all of a sudden noticed the pictures from her camera were showing up on my harddrive even though I thought there was an error and I couldn't view them. I am sooooo excited! Many of them are amazing! I'm uploading to dropshots now. They'll just add to the end of 8/8/08 so you may have to look for them, but totally worth it. Give me a little bit and I can post some here!! Just have to wait until they load. Wow! I am so impressed.

So, married life hasn't been too exciting so far. I had to work this week so I haven't really even seen Tim all that much. Kinda makes me sad, but I'm off this weekend so hopefully we can hang out and do some fun family stuff on Sunday.

I took Max yesterday to meet his new preschool teacher. Aside from still having a belly ache and not feeling well, he really seemed to like the school. He thinks its neat that there won't be any babies there and there will be some really big kids. He liked his teacher and played with every station in the classroom checking it all out. I am guessing my mom will be quite impressed that he knew the picture of Jesus and the cross when he got to the religion station. Since it is a Lutheran school there will be plenty of religion teaching which is a great opportunity for Max because his parents aren't so hot in that area. He starts on Wednesday and gets to take a big back pack as well as his own lunch everyday. I'd buy him hot lunch, but I hate to spend the money when I know he won't eat most of it. Next menu time I'll go over it with him and see if there is anything he wants. I'm doubting it though.

I guess that's about all I have for now. I'll be back later today to post some of the better pictures though so watch for that!!!

For those of you who couldn't be there with us

2008-08-13T20:46:00.002-04:00

And don't want to go through a million pictures on dropshots, here is one of Tim and I getting married

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

I have changed my name at the Social Security office, on my driver's license, and several of our household bills. I also sent in the paperwork to do it on my nursing license which will be a big deal. I can't change anything at work until I've done that. It's pretty exciting, and really the only thing that makes me feel married. I guess when you've been together for 10 years not much changes. At least, that's what we are hoping. Things were good before so I'd hate to think that anything would change, unless of course it gets better.

Kids are sleeping and I need a nap before work, just thought I would share that!

Hi Shannon!

2008-08-11T10:37:00.002-04:00

I see you checking in tons so I know you are probably looking for pictures and an update ;)

We are home safe and sound in Indiana and there is tons to do around the house. I have to put everything away, start thank you's, change my name everywhere, and stuff like that. The list never ends. I cannot wait to get back to normal life. The boys were very excited to get back to school today though!! They even slept in past 8:00 and Alex woke up Max instead of the other way around.

There are tons of pictures on DropShots right now!! I know some are missing, but I had some technical issues yesterday so I'll try to work on that. It'll probably be quite awhile before I have the professional shots because the photographer is busy with her son's graduation and going off to college. I promise to get them posted ASAP though!! Hopefully somewhere that people can order prints if they would like to.

I had an amazing weekend with my best friends, Donna and Norma, and my Rambler Friends got me Michelle for my wedding present which was the best surprise ever!! I was shocked when I saw her at the reception and it was really the only time I actually teared up. Seeing all my girls this weekend was amazing, I just wish it wouldn't have been so hectic so I could have spent more time with you all!!!

All the out of town family was great too! I have to mention Shannon because she was my lifesaver! She is Tim's aunt and loves my kids! Has been following my blog/pictures for some time now and the only person I can count on to always check in, even when she doesn't post ;) She was unofficially in charge of the kids pretty much all week, without even being asked. They LOVED her and I know she enjoyed all of the time she got to spend with them. If it weren't for Shannon, neither of them would have ever napped, got food, or anything like that. Half the time if you couldn't find one of them (usually Alex) she was there taking great care! During the wedding ceremony she kept Alex in control, as much as anyone can with that kid. He had fun though. They were sad to see her go, but hopefully she and her husband will come visit us in Indiana soon!

Several people only stayed for dinner and I must say I was pretty sad about that. Dinner was chaotic since we were late (pictures) and the kids were all over the place. My surprise guest arrived, and much much more. I didn't get to talk to everyone like I wanted to, but I do think we got to pretty much everyone that was at the reception. To those of you I didn't get to talk to, I know you were there, thank you for coming, and I hope to talk with you soon!

Ok, I am out of time. I have to much to do today! I'll try to get some of the best pictures posted later, but if you can't wait please check out the picture link. They are pretty much all there!!

Peace out......from MRS. PRIME!!

The beginning of the big day!

2008-08-07T07:27:00.002-04:00

Today is only the rehearsal, but there is so much to do to get ready that it feels like the beginning of the big day. I apologize in advance if my ramblings make no sense. I'm so tired and am on the verge of puking at any moment. I don't know that I've ever been this stressed out in my entire life.

For starters while my best girls, Norma and Donna, and I sat around trying to plan out the next two days, Alex woke up again at 11 screaming. Fortunately it only lasted about an hour, but he woke Max up in the process. Max was thinking it was morning since everyone was still up and refused to go back to sleep. My sanity was seriously on the verge of a breakdown. Finally got them both to sleep and wouldn't you know I was wide awake at 6:30 this morning with everyone else still asleep. WTF is up with that?? I've been up for an hour now with no accomplishment other than freaking out.

Ok, Max and Norma just joined me. At least I don't have to freak out alone anymore. My friends are very good at keeping me calm, and they also know me well enough to put me in my place when I need it.

Can I just say now that I am going to DIE over the next few days from lack of sleep!! I'm sure we'll be out all night tonight due to partying and then I have to get up early tomorrow to go get my hair and nails done. We'll be up late again tomorrow for sure and then Saturday morning my parents leave to go camping at 10am so we need to be back from the hotel by then to get the boys. UGH! After Alex's night last night I'm not sure Norma will still be willing to stay with Alex on Saturday so Tim and I may have the kids with us at the hotel. Haha, how sad is that??

So, it's been an hour since I started this and everyone is waking up now. Just waiting for Rusty to get out of the shower so I can get in. I must get going! Stay tuned...I'm sure there will be more to come!

3 Days and counting!

2008-08-05T08:59:00.002-04:00

I had Alex in the ER last night. His crying at night was getting worse and had lasted 4 nights. Tim took him to the pediatrician yesterday and they couldn't find anything wrong with him. He started up with the screaming again last night though so I called the ped on-call. Luckily it was his doctor!! The doc said to take him in because it could be a blockage or something with his belly since that was his complaint and of the way he was acting. They did bloodwork, tested his poo for blood, started an IV and did a belly x-ray. NOTHING!!! Fortunately his bloodwork was fine, but the x-ray looked ok too, with maybe a small amount of constipation. Odd, since he's been going, but whatever. Once the IV was in he fell asleep for about 2 hours. It was very peaceful for me to watch him sleep. They discharged us shortly after with instructions only to try a stool softener if I thought he needed it.

Once we got home he fell almost immediately to sleep and stayed that way until 6:45. Pretty much sleeping in for him. Max slept in too which was nice. I guess he's fixed now. Still don't know what was wrong, but he definitely acted more like his self this morning and got some decent sleep for the first night in 5 days. If only I could say the same thing for me. Lucky also that it was really slow at work and I got canceled or it would have really been a bad situation!

As for the wedding, I have pretty much done everything I can do here except pack to head to MI. As soon as I finish up here I'm heading out to go tanning. Then home to do laundry, shower, and pack. I'm hoping to be on my way to pick up the kids by 2:30ish. Can't go any sooner because of naptime but I also don't want to be on the road too late.

Tomorrow will probably be hectic. Picking up the marriage license, picking up Norma and Donna at the airport, working on favors, and all sorts of other fun stuff. I can't wait!

I'm outta here for now, but I'll have my computer with me so I'm sure I'll be checking in throughout the week!

One week to go!!

2008-08-01T15:05:00.002-04:00

In one week and one hour I will be walking down the aisle. I can't believe how fast this has come up. Especially considering I thought Tim would make me wait another 10 years after buying my ring.

No wedding news to report really, other than everything seems to be falling nicely into place. I still need to finish working on the programs, but otherwise most everything I can do ahead of time is done. Bachlorette party is planned and airport pick-ups are scheduled. I am off work tonight, but I work the next three nights after and leave the day I get home/finish sleeping.

I officially enrolled Max in "real" preschool today. He is going to Trinity Lutheran School which is about 2 miles from our house. I didn't realize it was that close so Tim should be happy. I'm thinking I might even be able to take him most mornings that I don't have to stay over. I'm sure Tim will love that since it is in the opposite direction from work. We are going to miss registration while we are in MI next week so I'm planning to e-mail the teacher to see when we can come in to see the classroom and stuff like that. I also have a short supply list to get for him and need to figure out what we are doing for his lunches. They have hot lunch, but looking at the list there probably isn't much he'll eat so I have a feeling I'll be packing for him pretty often. I need to find some healthy stuff that he'll like. Apples, grapes. What else?? He doesn't like much.

Oooh, picked up my dress yesterday. Did I mention that?? I can't remember but I think I did right before I rushed off to the meeting at work. Seeing myself in it makes me realize how much I need a diet and to start working out, but it was beautiful at the same time. Just very strange seeing something so dressy on me because I have never been a girly girl and into dressy stuff. I can't wait to see the pictures though!! I know it will be better than looking at it in the mirror.

(PS- just went back and looked at yesterday's post. Guess I not only mentioned my dress, but the thread was titled after it. Haha!! I'm such a dork)

I don't think I ever talked about it, but there is a new park in South Bend right across from the zoo. We took the kids for a few hours last Friday and they loved it. Very new, very up to date, and very clean. If it wasn't so hot I'd take them again today. Maybe tomorrow morning before the sun hits full force. I love that they can run off so much energy and have fun at the same time.

Can't think of much else at this point. I'm off to go get the boys. I was going to go tanning again, but it's Biker Night on Friday evenings and I'm just not sure I want to head there for that. Then again, only a few days off. Maybe I'll stop by if they aren't too busy ;)

Later!

Woohoo!! Got my dress today!

2008-07-31T13:39:00.002-04:00

And it looks soooo beautiful on me. I also bought a few other things for the big day while I was out today. Too bad I didn't get what I went to the hobby shop for and I have to go back out. GRR!

I guess I forgot to mention, but Max started a new bottle of meds on Sunday. We have noticed a significant drop in their effectiveness this week so automatically assumed it was maybe a bad batch or something. However the pharmacy said if that was the case there would be a recall and they haven't had ADHD meds recalled in a long time. Sooo, next I had to call the doctor. He (and I guess kinda us) decided that it may just be a coincidence that it was a new bottle and that he probably was on the smallest dose just long enough for his body to adjust and now it's not working as well. I'll go with that. I had to pick up a new prescription today and hope he shows some improvement over the weekend. If no change by Monday I can get a higher dose, but I hate to max out too soon and then have to switch to something else. When the Concerta was working, it was amazing!! Max has been an awesome and well behaved kid for the last month.

I'd love to stick around and talk more details, but I just remembered a meeting I have at work in 30 minutes. Unfortunately I thought I had one more day before attending. Good thing I checked my e-mail.

More updates to come so keep checking!

11 Days and counting

2008-07-28T14:32:00.002-04:00

And I'm beginning to think this is never all going to work. There are so many little details that keep popping up. Then I don't write them down and forget what they are. I'm feeling quite overwhelmed the last few days, but I'm working, home alone with the kids, or taking them fun places (more about that in a minute) so I'm not getting anything done. I really need to make a list and get focused by my days off towards the end of this week. I leave a week from tomorrow for my mom's so it all needs to be done by then!!

So, yesterday we took the kids to Indiana Beach. Not really what it sounds like. It's more of an amusement park. Alex and I hung out in the shops, walked the boardwalk, and played in the water that splashes out of the log boat ride. He had a blast. Max and Tim got to ride on the rides all day long. Alex and I did join them for the haunted house tour. Let me tell you, that was hilarious!! Alex jumped a mile the first few times something jumped out at us or made scary noises, but once he settled he was soooo interested in whatever it was. He kept doing the surprised face which I love. By the end I think he was ready to go again. Max on the other hand cried like a baby (well, whined) that he was scared and wanted to hurry up and get out of there. By the time we got to the end he was begging to go in again. I don't get that kid. All in all it was a great day!! Very busy and a little expensive, but I can see us doing it again. The only problem was the kids both being too small for most of the water park so we skipped it. I think I would have really enjoyed that. Tim said he can't wait for next year to take Max to Cedar Point when he'll be big enough to ride everything.

We have errands to run and haircuts to get today so we are heading out shortly to go get the kids. I really should have slept longer, but Tim is used to me telling him not to let me sleep past one (when I'm off the next night) so he got me up a little early. No big deal, except it was my first of 3 in a row. I'm hoping to VEX (volunteer off) tomorrow, but we have so many people on vacation or calling off so I don't know if it'll happen. I just want a few days to get stuff done. I guess I can nap tonight before I go back in too. I got a great little nap last night!

I guess that's about all for right now. I'm slightly scatterbrained with all thats going on so sorry if I missed anything and you can be sure I'll be back!

Holy Shit!!!!

2008-07-24T15:37:00.002-04:00

I'm getting married in 15 days. Our rehearsal is in 2 weeks and 20 minutes. I can't believe how quickly this came up. I'm so excited, a little stressed and so happy all at the same time.

Work has been crazy this week which is why I haven't been around. Even now I should be leaving to go get the kids, but I wanted to at least post something first. I'm soooo late on pictures from the trip to Debbie's house, but if you check out dropshots they are all there. Well, most of them. Since there were 4 of us with cameras we had quite a few doubles, triples, and quadruples.

Thinks are going well, with the exception of it being so busy at work. Max decided yesterday that he wants next week to be his last week of gymnastics so I won't be signing him up for the fall session. He really would like to do Karate or some version of that so I'm going to start looking into it soon. The schools around here open back up on July 30th so I'm going to look into a preschool or pre-k for him too. I think he would really like "real" school and it would be cheaper for us than having him in a daycare. We shall see what I find out though. It really stinks that he can't just go to kindergarden.

I guess I should run now, Love you all and can't wait to see those of you that are coming to the wedding!!

I should be sleeping, but....

2008-07-16T21:10:00.002-04:00

Why is it so stinking hard to pick our first dance song??? Maybe because we have been together for a million years already. I thought I knew what I wanted but I keep changing my mind and Tim is no help what so ever. Anyone have any suggestions?? Actually, it's more of a vote I'm looking for. Maybe I'll do a poll on the sidebar. I gotta do something quick!!

Just got back yesterday from spending 2.5 days with Debbie, Dawn and Heather! What a blast. We really did have a lot of fun. I have details and pictures to share, but for now I really must take a nap because it's almost time to get ready for work. Check in for that during the next few days!!

Night!

Old News....but

2008-07-12T18:55:00.002-04:00

Wednesday I got to take a nice little trip to the pediatrician with Alex. Daycare called me just before noon to say he was crankier than normal and not really using his left arm. All I could think of was the 2nd degree sunburn that he has on his shoulders, or the fact that he slept all screwy on our pillow the night before. I went to pick him up and realized it was probably worse than I thought. He wasn't using it at all, screamed when you touched it, and flinched any time I tried to pick him up. I took him in. The doctor initially thought nursemaid's elbow (dislocation) but he wasn't acting exactly like that. She did x-rays just in case and the x-ray definitely showed that it was dislocated. She did the maneuver that they do to put it back into place. It didn't pop like it should have, but darned if he wasn't grabbing for stuff and moving around like normal the instant she finished. I'm happy that experience is over. The only problem is that now that its happened, its more likely to happen again in the future. Still no idea what happened. It could have been someone wrestling with him at diaper change time, him falling on the playground, any number of things. All I know is that I hope it was a fluke and I never have to go through seeing him in pain like that again.

In other news, I got canceled once this week and was able to volunteer myself off another night. AWESOME!! The only problem with that is now I have to burn some vacation time. I guess it's worth it though. Especially having last night off since Tim worked all day today and I have to go in tonight.

Tomorrow after I wake up we are heading to IL to see Debbie, Dawn, and Heather!! Heather moved to PA just before we left the DC area so we haven't seen her in ages. It's going to be a fun time. I just wish all the rambler girls could be there! You can be sure I'll have plenty of pictures from this trip! When I get home I'll have to work 4 nights straight again, including the weekend. I don't mind all in a row like that, its actually easier, but I sure hope Tim can be off next Saturday so I can get some sleep!

Wedding plans seem to just be getting more and more solid. I still haven't talked to the DJ, but Russ talked to him last night and he's still planning on being there. My awesome cousin Jody has already wrapped the silverware so we don't have to worry about that last minute and Tim's mom has been picking up cute little decoration stuff whenever she sees something cute and cheap! It's going to be awesome. The only detail I sorta forgot was video. I'm hoping I can talk my brother Rusty into doing something, even if its just on his camera and we upload it to the computer. I'm not sure any of us has a decent camcorder, but I would love to have something to share with my friends who are unable to make it. Less than 4 weeks and counting! I can't wait!!

Hmm, one other thing I forgot. Alli, our neighbor and babysitter, is having surgery in Chicago on Tuesday of next week. She has scoliosis and it needs to be fixed so they are putting rods in her back. Please pray for her if you think about it!! I'm sure everything will go well. We are counting on her feeling well enough to come to the wedding and help out with the boys. She won't be able to pick up Alex, but if we can get him ok with that, she will be an amazing help! I'd much rather it be someone the boys love and trust than a stranger they probably wouldn't listen to. Here is Alli's caringbridge website in case you'd like to visit. http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/allisonkapica

I guess that's about all I have for now. I need to get Max to bed so I can take a nap before I head off to work for the night. Talk to you soon!

Happy Belated Birthday to me!

2008-07-08T14:53:00.002-04:00

I turned 32 yesterday and I am so excited about that. I've never much liked being odd numbers so yesterday marked a good turn. Last year was not the greatest. Living apart from Tim sucked, Alex in the ER with the aqua dot scare, not liking working nights, and on and on. This year is going to be much better!!! I'm also getting married in one month and I'm more excited than ever.

Yesterday Tim and I went and applied for our marriage license. We also rented his tux, ordered Clay's and went to meet with the pastor who is going to marry us. He is a huge UofM fan so we liked him immediately. He asked why we waited so long to get married and obviously I had to defer to Tim. He had me sweating bullets for a few minutes that the pastor might decide not to marry us, but in the end his honesty won him over and he is glad that we are finally doing this. He has already sent me a copy of the ceremony so I can make programs and I really think its going to be beautiful. We also met with my mom when she got out of work to order flowers. My bouquet changed alot from what I had originally planned, but I love what I decided to go with. I really think this is going to be an amazing wedding considering it was supposed to be small and intimate.

Today I slept most of the day. Much needed sleep since I've been sick, going to bed late, and the kids getting up early. We had to wake them up for school this morning which is completely unheard of. I think staying up late on the drive home helped, and neither of them budged when we got home and carried them to bed last night. I'm sure playing in the pool with their cousins and grandma's house helped a little too. They were both so well behaved all weekend, including on the 4th.

Speaking of the 4th, I guess I never wrote about that either. Tim went out and bought a ton of fireworks. The big ones are legal in IN and we've never been able to have such cool ones before. Two of the neighbors also went in together and bought tons more. We had a very nice cookout with Dave, Cindy, and Alli, as well as Cindy's sister, and another couple from the neighborhood. Both kids stayed up later than they ever have before, but they really were good. Until Max's meds wore off and he wouldn't sit still that is. He drove me kinda crazy, but I know he had fun and that's the important part. It was an awesome 4th of July that's for sure. I hope we can repeat it for years to come.

I have tons of pictures on my camera right now that I need to post, but I need to jump in the shower so we can go get the kids. I'll try to get to that tonight if I can. I'm back to work for 5 nights in a row though, so I may take a nap instead. We shall see. Look for them though because they'll be out soon!

Hope everyone had a great holiday and I promise to come back soon!!

I am sooo done!

2008-06-28T16:59:00.003-04:00

With Alex that is. Anyone want an almost 2 year old?? I tried to give him away last week but there were no takers. Today he has dumped an entire container of corn meal on the kitchen floor and then walked through it, smooshed a nutrigrain bar into the ground, escaped outside when I wasn't looking, broke into my wedding chocolates and destroyed several of them when I barely had enough for those that we invited, and several other things I can't remember off the top of my head. He won't stop screeching, he freaks if I'm out of his sight and I'm over all of it. I'm about to put him out on the corner and hope someone picks him up. I do not remember Max being this horrible at 2. I'm sure he was, but I don't remember it.

Speaking of Max, we changed his meds yesterday. Same overall med, but this one is long acting so he only has to take it once a day. Today is his first day and he's doing great. He has been so pleasant all day its the only way I've made it through. I took them to McDonald's for lunch and he was sooooo good. Ate his food before he went to play and everything. I think Tim and I both agree that doing meds was the right thing because he has just been so good lately. An angel at school too which is the important part.

K, have to run. Alex won't stop hanging on me and crying. I'm giving him dinner and putting him to bed. I'm hoping that's the reason he's so crabby because if not, he'll be up bright and early tomorrow. Haha, then again, I'll be at work so I don't really care. Tim deserves it a little for leaving me all day today to go to work!! :)

Behind again as usual

2008-06-26T18:53:00.002-04:00

But I have an excuse!! After being off work for almost 2 weeks because Tim was out of town I've had to work all week. I'm soooo over working nights! I love the people I work with and it's fairly easy most nights, but it's getting old to have to be up when normal people are sleeping.

Haha, speaking of normal people, my family is so not normal. Max decided to wear lined winter pants to school today. Not sure which shirt he wore, but he had a too small long sleeved one on when I picked him up. It was his third shirt of the day. Spilled water on the first and bled all over the second when he fell on the playground and smacked his nose on his knee. The worst part about this lovely outfit....it was 90 degrees outside today. What the heck was daddy thinking when he let Max out of the house dressed like that??? I'm guessing he didn't watch the weather this morning ;)

Alex was no better. No idea what he went to school in either. He decided to drink from a big boy cup today. He's done it at home and makes a mess at least half the time. Today was half that he spilled all down the front of himself. For some reason I only had long sleeves and pants there for him too so they put an extra set of clothes on him. A 6-9 month romper. It was obviously too short to button so it looked more like a dress. Very cute, very white trash. I was cracking up. They both got boo-boo reports today too. Makes me so happy to wake up in the afternoon.

In other news, there really isn't any other news. Wedding plans haven't changed much. I guess I'm just waiting for my dress to come in and all the last minute stuff to start falling into place. I'm thinking that probably won't be for another month. Just before the big day gets here. I was able to get the 4 days before the wedding off and I'm hoping for 2 or 3 after as well. And that's not using any vacation time. Woohoo!!

As a preview, and for those of you that won't be at the wedding, here is Max in his little tux

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

He looks so cute, and so goofy all at the same time. Alex's is a bit short, but I decided not to get him another one. The shorts fit great and he won't be in it all that long so hopefully no one will notice ;) This is how Max wants to look for the big day

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

And, speaking of the big day. I just remembered what his teacher told me today. He has been practicing writing his name. He's been able to do Max for a long time now. He has always been resistant to learning "Prime." Today when I picked up his papers, he not only did the Prime tracing, he wrote it on his own as well. When I told him how proud I was of him for doing that, his teacher had this to say.

"Max told me he wanted to learn to write his last name because pretty soon his mommy was going to have the same last name"

Isn't that the sweetest thing. She asked him in front of me why he was wanting to write his last name and he not only told me, he also gave me a big hug and told me he loved me. Isn't that the most adorable thing you have ever heard. I'm telling you, this kid has done a complete 180 since going on meds. I was sorta resistant at first, especially to prozac being he's so young, but he is doing so well that I know we made the right decision.

I guess that's about all I have for now. I'll try to get back this weekend if I get a chance!!

Yard Sales Suck!!

2008-06-21T19:01:00.002-04:00

And I can't say I want to do another one again any time soon. At least not when it's hot and I have the kids home. Today was not fun by any means. Alex was horrible all day long and Max was rotten tonight. I couldn't win. Fortunately they both went to bed early or someone would not be happy...me!!

I did make a small amount of money, but not what I was hoping for. Now I have a crapload of clothes to box up again too. I'm hoping if I wait until fall and have another one I'll do better. For the simple fact that my kids were born in the winter so all of their clothes are pretty much for that season. I did get rid of quite a few of the 0-6 month stuff though. Good sales to the crowd I had, just not a good crowd I guess. Plus, my neighbors put out a 50% off everything sign today and didn't tell me so I'm sure that hurt me too. GRR! Oh well, except for the clothes I wasn't really into selling stuff for 50% off anyway. I'd rather wait than take such a huge loss on things like the stroller and crib. I may try Craigslist while its all still in the garage though.

K, enough rambling. I'm heading to bed early tonight since the kids did. I'm exhausted from chasing them both all day. Tomorrow afternoon we pick up Tim and I can't wait. He can handle them tomorrow evening ;)

Not much to update

2008-06-20T13:28:00.003-04:00

It's been a slow day from what I hear from the neighbors. I'm bored out of my mind and ready to figure out a way to get the TV out here in the garage. I even closed up shop for a few minutes and took off around the neighborhood to see what I could find. Unfortunately the only thing I wanted was a battery operated jeep for Max but they were asking $100 and it didn't have batteries. Um, No thanks!! I can get a new one for not much more than that.

I'm hoping it picks up soon, or is busier tomorrow otherwise I did a whole lot of work for not much money. I've made over $100 so far, but not nearly as much as I had hoped. All the big stuff is still here.

Talk to you later!

Yard Sale Friday

2008-06-20T08:01:00.002-04:00

For starters, Alex slept better last night so I'm in a much better mood. Only slightly sleep deprived now instead of horribly sleep deprived.

So far I've had 3 customers. All have been old men. Cracks me up because you can plainly see from the road that all I have is kids stuff. They look around, act interested and then bolt. I have a feeling it's going to be a long day. Plan on plenty of updates. Wireless internet is AMAZING!!

Anyone want a 19 Month old??

2008-06-19T09:14:00.002-04:00

Cuz I don't want mine anymore. I'm soooooo over this whole teething thing. Max was rough, but he woke up in the middle of the night and wanted to play. As long as we turned cartoons on for him, he left us alone. Not Alex. You'd think he has an ear infection (but no fever) because of how much he screams, and cries, and whines, and tosses, and turns. I haven't slept in two days and I have a ton to do to get ready for our yard sale this weekend. I will probably have to stay up all night again tonight just to be ready, and that's only if he lets me get work done. He'll probably be moaning that I have to lay with him. UGH!! I can't take much more. That I can tell, only one molar has broken through the skin, but they are all swollen and so are several spots in the front of his mouth. What kind of 19 month old only has 6 teeth anyway?? 7 if you count the molar that has barely broken skin.

In other news, wedding planning is coming along nicely. I am getting quite a few RSVPs back which I love. It's neat to see who's coming. So far I haven't gotten any no's. Hopefully it stays that way. All the big stuff is pretty much done and taken care of. I have to send some paperwork back to the pastor, but I will probably take that in person when I go up in July to get the marriage license. I got the boys tuxes, and while Alex's is a bit small, they look so cute in them!! All the little stuff at the end will probably get me stressed out, but for now I'm feeling good.

Not much else to talk about. The yard sale should be taking up all my time but I don't feel like getting started. Which means I probably won't have much out there to sell, but Alex's lack of sleep has almost cause me not to care.

Tim will be home from DC on Sunday and I can't wait. He can go without sleep for 5 days while I get to go back to work. YAY!!!

I have pictures from Max camping, but no time to post them now. Check out dropshots if you'd like to see them!

I get to see my (first) baby today!!

2008-06-13T09:32:00.005-04:00

As soon as Tim gets out of work we are heading up to Gunn lake to camp for the weekend. I have not seen or talked to Max in a week. I still don't get how my not talking to him was a good thing, but at least it's finally over. I'm kinda sad that he didn't get homesick and want to come home, but at the same time I'm glad he's having tons of fun and doing ok without us. It'll make it easier the next time we need to go away for awhile and leave him with someone.

Alex is going to be so happy to see him!! This morning (trying to talk Tim into leaving work early) I had Alex chanting Max, Max, Max complete with arm motions. It was adorable!! I need to get a video of it later. Poor kid has been lost without his big brother this week.

Wedding RSVPs started to roll in yesterday. Can I tell you how excited I am about that?? And so far everyone that has responded is able to make it. That makes me even happier. I think I'm finally not feeling the stress and able to enjoy it a little. I know as it gets closer til I'll get all stressed again from the last minute items, but I have almost 8 weeks before I get to that point.

Anyone know where Alex's life jacket is?? I don't want to buy a new one, but I can't remember where we put his and he can't go on the boat without it. Hmm, who wants to explain that to him ;) He is going to HATE it!!

Surprisingly the house is pretty picked up today and I only have a few things to do to get ready for camping. I got home from work last night around 4 so I really should be napping, but I can't sleep. Trying to plan out packing in my mind so I don't forget anything. I'm sure I'll be making at least one trip to WalMart for the stuff I need. A bathing suit for me is at the top of that list. My one from last year is finally too big. YAY!!! Not by much, but my top has shrunk since then.

Not much else to talk about right now. I feel like I'm only here to ramble, but sometimes you just need to do that. Talk to everyone at the end of the weekend!

Single mom to an only child??

2008-06-09T14:28:00.002-04:00

At least for the next 2.5 days. Woohoo!! We were supposed to take Max camping tonight, but my parents stopped by on Saturday and decided to just take him back with them. He didn't even call yesterday to say he missed me. I'm so sad!!!! I'm sure it's good for him though, and I did talk to my mom who said he is doing great.

Tim also left this morning for Cleveland for a training session. The only good news this brings is that I can't work because I have to be at home at night with Alex. I'm off til Thursday night and then off again for more than a week. Next weekend we'll go to pick Max up, and stay camping for the weekend. A huge father's day dinner is planned for Saturday and then we'll head home Sunday. Tim leaves Monday morning for Washington DC because his old hotel, Wardman Park, asked him to come help out for the week. He'll be gone until the next Sunday. I hate being alone with the kids all the time. I don't do single parenting very well, but I'm sure we'll manage just fine. First off, the kids will still be going to school, and I have a ton to do to get ready for our yard sale that is the weekend of the 20th and 21st. The house is also trashed so there is plenty of picking up to do. Guess I should get started on that tonight. It might take two weeks ;)

Other than that, not much going on. Invitations finally went out for the wedding, although there are several addresses I still need but Tim is dragging his feet. My mom and I went shopping on Saturday to get ideas for flowers, favors, and stuff like that. It was a very nice day and we got quite a bit accomplished. I finally feel like everything is coming together nicely and I shouldn't have to stress for the next month and 30 days.

Tim got some video the other night of the boys playing in the sprinklers. I haven't taken them off the camera yet, but I'll try to get to that tonight or tomorrow and get one posted. Having a sprinkler system is awesome though!! They love it.

Saying HI!

2008-06-05T10:16:00.003-04:00

So much to report. First of all, Saturday I woke up feeling poopy because I did not want to spend a long, beautiful weather day with the kids while Tim worked late. So, I mentioned on my message board that I should come visit Debbie and wouldn't you know she was there 20 minutes later saying that would be ok with her. It took us about 3 hours to get there, but it was totally worth it. The boys had a blast playing with Caige and Trace and Debbie and I got to have an enjoyable day as well. Not to mention I finally got to meet her husband so now maybe he'll let her come back to our house to play ;) Here are a few pictures from the day

Good buddies!

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books
Hanging out in the pool. Kelly says this is Alex's sexy face

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books
Crazy second children! It must be genetic.

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books
He wanted to drink that water so badly

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books
Bath time....notice Alex sitting under the stream of water

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books
I love love love this picture

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books
And this one too!!

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books
Telling stories

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books
And here is all of us

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

And now that I've taken up all this space with pictures, here is more news.

Things seem to be coming together quite nicely with the wedding. I finally got the invites done and as soon as I buy stamps they'll be going out in the mail. Photographer, DJ, and location are taken care of. We'll find out later today if we have an officiant. Chris and her friend Pat are doing the food and my cousin Jody is going to make our cake as well as provide decorations. Donna is going to be here so I have a maid of honor, and my dear friend Norma is going to be able to make it from CT as well. I'm so excited!! Tim finally asked his friend Clay to be his best man so he's making a little progress. Now if he would just get me the addresses that I need to finish getting all invitations out.

Next week Max is going camping with Nana and Papa all by himself. I am sure he'll have fun, but I hope he does ok without me. He's never been away for so long before. I hope they remember to take tons and tons of pictures. Tim is heading to Cleveland on Monday for a 3 day training thing. Thankfully he is only leaving me with Alex or I may have to cry. Oh wait, but then the next weekend he's going to DC to help at his old hotel, Wardman Park for a week. I'll have both kids by myself trying to prepare for our yard sale. Fun fun fun. And thank goodness for daycare!!

I guess I should stop here because this has gotten really long with the pictures. I'll be back soon though!

It's coming together...

2008-05-30T21:16:00.004-04:00

Slowly but surely. I never imagined planning a budget wedding could be so much work. I figured since we were doing everything as cheaply as possible that it would be simple. Guess not. I ordered my dress, bought our wedding bands, hired a photographer, almost have a DJ lined up, and confirmed the site. I've also been listening to songs trying to figure out what I want to dance to with Tim and my dad. The guest list is done, most of the addresses are ready, and I have the wording for my invitations. I'm just too afraid to print them because as soon as I do something will change. As impatient as I am to get everything done it surprises me that I didn't just go with my first draft. I'm glad though, because I'm liking the current version a whole lot more. Now I just need a vacation, but there are only 2 months and a few days left to plan so I need to keep plugging on. It'll be nice once everything is set and I can stop stressing until closer to the big day.

In other news, Max had a good week at school this week. He had an appointment on Wednesday to check his blood pressure and heart since he is on a stimulant. Everything is perfect. I'm still not convinced he is on the right medication, but we'll give it a chance to work for a few more weeks and then see what his psychiatrist says when we go back.

Alex has been a nightmare. I'm guessing it's teething since there has been no fever, but he's not eating very good and sleeping horribly. Tim said even when he slept he was tossing and turning. It makes me feel bad that I'm not here for him at night, but thankful because at least I get to sleep peacefully during the day. Well, usually. This past week it was either a phone call or something everyday that kept me up. I think this was my worst week yet as far as sleep goes.

I applied 2 weeks ago for a position at a doctor's office that is affiliated with the hospital. One of the phone calls this week was HR saying that they did want to interview me. It's going to probably be a pretty big pay cut though which has me quite nervous. I already feel like things are tight enough as we keep trying to dig ourselves out of the hole we created with moving last year. However, it's only part time, probably 3 days a week, so I have the option to stay per diem at my current job and pick up shifts there whenever possible. I can pick up days if its needed, but I'm thinking one night a week would be ok. Not ideal, but better than my current situation. I'll miss having so many of my daytimes home to get things done around the house, but really, I sleep most of them away anyway so what's the difference. Keep your fingers crossed that it all works out.

Other than that, not much new to report. All I do lately is sleep and plan the wedding. I'll keep you updated, but for now I think I'm heading to bed ;)

It's official

2008-05-24T17:18:00.002-04:00

We are getting married 8/8/08 at Tim's mom's house. Sort of. You'll see eventually and it will all make sense. Guest list is almost done, and invitations will hopefully go out pretty soon. Russ is handling a bunch of details for us as far as the hall next door for dinner, possibly a DJ, and cleaning their pole barn for a bar and dancing.

I found the perfect dress today but had to order it in white since the one I tried on was red. I sooooo can't wait til it gets here. Of course, I can't show it til the wedding, but at least I'll be able to see it ;)

Just thought I would let you know!!

What are you doing 08/08/08?

2008-05-22T14:24:00.002-04:00

Cuz I hope to be getting married. Hopefully I get a chance to talk to Tim about that before he reads this, but I think we can swing it if he's willing. We talked about it a month or so ago, and he was on board for a Vegas wedding as long as he could wear whatever he wanted and I planned everything. I tossed that idea out the window though because my parents couldn't be there and they reminded me that we might get a nicer "gift" if it were closer to home and people didn't have to pay airfare and hotel costs.

So anyway, I was back to wanting to get married on 08/08/08 but that was my weekend to work. Nice how I know for the whole year and can plan, right?? I was talking to a dear friend at work last night, the one who works my Fridays and I work her Saturdays. She works the weekend before me and was planning to go camping with her family in between our two weekends. I offered to take her full weekend (the 1st in August) and she'll take my whole weekend. Now if I can just get Tim to agree to take it off, we can get married!! Woohoo!! His family's reunion is the 9th so it would be a nice weekend to head up to Bay City and do it. Lots to plan and not much time to do it if he says yes so hopefully I'll find time to chat with him soon. It's hard when one of us always seems to be working lately. I'll update you as soon as I know anything.

In other exciting news, he got an e-mail asking him to come down to Wardman Park Marriott (the place that took us to DC originally) and help them out for a week in June. At first I said NO WAY!!! He would be leaving father's day weekend when we are supposed to be picking Max up from camping for a week with my parents. Then he wouldn't be back until the following weekend, but I already have concert tickets to see Kenny Chesney with my awesome friend Debbie in Chicago. Not to mention, who is going to stay with the kids while I work at night??? Just not infeasible right? Actually, I was able to swing it. I'm still hoping he can wait until Father's day to leave so we can camp for at least one night, and I'm hoping he'll get back in time for me to head to Chicago, but I don't have to work that week. Fortunately it wasn't a popular week for requests so my supervisor said it was fine to have off. YAY!!!

It'll be great for Tim's career. This is the biggest hotel he's worked for and one of the biggest convention centers on the east coast. In addition, our old GM from Westfields is there as the resident manager now. He is the one who requested Tim's help. Tim is thinking he may be thinking of Tim for the future as executive chef when the current one retires. Now, I could be totally wrong about that, but if I'm right, who wants to risk him not being able to show off his new executive chef skills!!! He is an amazing chef, manager, and employee. So, I'm letting him go in the hopes that maybe we can move back to DC in the next few years. Funny, huh, how I couldn't wait to get away from there and now I'm dying to go back. I miss my old friends terribly and I also miss my old job. Nothing here can ever compare to any of that. I do like that we are close to family, but we did it for 10 years so we can do it again. Just getting over the cost of living and traffic would be my only obstacle. Now I'm trying to figure out how I can go with him and take the kids so I can go see old friends for the week. Flying would be expensive with both kids, and we wouldn't have a car for me to get around. However, it's also a short amount of time to be gone if we are going to make a 12 hour trip by car. I guess we'll have to see. I won't hold my breath, but the possibility has me pretty excited.

Not much new to report on the home front. Alex is teething and still kinda snotty (from allergies) but Max is doing well. The Ritalin doesn't seem to work as well as it should, but it will get us by for awhile. We go back to the psychiatrist in about a month so hopefully then we can see if there is another drug that will work better, but still allow Max to sleep at night. I still have pinkeye. I'm still not totally convinced its bacterial. It seems to get worse when I spend time outside, but who knows. I quit using the drops and was using my allergy drops, but yesterday the goopy redness came back so I'm back on both drops now. I'm praying something works soon because this is miserable. How unfair to make it 31 years without the dreaded pinkeye only to come down with it now. How come no one else has it???

Grandma and Grandpa are coming to visit this weekend so I really need to get some laundry done, but I have been lazying around. I'm tired from working and not being able to sleep great during the day. Nana and Papa are up in Tawas for the weekend camping and I'm quite jealous just thinking about it. I miss childhood trips up there and how much fun Corey and I used to have. My dear friend Heather pointed out the Trace Adkins song, "Your gonna miss this" and boy is that true. There are so many things I wanted to rush growing up and now I wish I could go back and do it all again.

Ok, I'm off for now. Almost time to go get the kids and I'm still in PJs, gunk in my eyes, and crazy hair. Hopefully I'll be back with big news soon!!

Yup, I have it!

2008-05-16T21:29:00.002-04:00

Pinkeye sucks!! My eyes hurt and they are sooooo red. I got told today it looks like I've been smoking pot. Um, no.

I also got a call from daycare while I was at the doctor saying Alex had a temp of 101.8 so I had to take him back to the pediatrician. His ear isn't infected, but it still looks nasty considering his antibiotics from earlier in the week should still be working. So, he's on a new antibiotic now and I pray this one works. I'm soooo over the sleepless nights. Last night I kinda assumed it was his teeth, but now I know otherwise.

On a brighter note, Max is doing great! No problems at school, although he has been complaining that his neck hurts. Not sure what that is about, but I have him using a different pillow (the one he used to use) to see if that will help. Keep your fingers crossed because if this is a med side effect I will cry. I thought we finally had the med issues fixed. He didn't nap today because of the "ache" but he's been sleeping great at night so I won't complain.

The weather was amazing today and Tim got to come home early. We spent all evening outside with the boys which is always a joy. Tim took them for a mini hay-ride in the wagon that pulls behind the lawn mower. It cracks me up how much they love it.

Oh, I can't believe I almost forgot to tell you this. I totally should have had Tim take pictures because no one is going to believe me. I made burgers on the grill for us tonight. All by myself!!! I started the grill, placed the burgers, flipped them, cheesed them, and even grilled the buns. I had to ask a million and one questions, but I was the only person to ever touch it. I was so proud of myself. I guess I can do it if I want to bad enough. Not saying I'll do it again anytime soon, but at least I know that I know how.

K, Tim is making me run upstairs for his chew so I have to go. I will hopefully check back in this weekend though! Night!

Pinkeye

2008-05-15T21:07:00.001-04:00

Me thinks I have it. Never had it before, so I'm not sure, but my eye went from being fine two hours ago to hurting, being flaming red, and super goopy now. I'm not liking it. I can barely see through all the gunk so I'm looking through my left eye. So not fun.

Guess tomorrow I'll be heading to a doc in a box. Hopefully it's not pinkeye and I can get it cleared up before I have to work again. I'm not so sure I can work with something like this, not to mention if the boys get it thats going to be ugly for school.

Just thought I'd share. I'm going to try to watch TV now and veg out!

I'm back and this will probably be long ;)

2008-05-14T09:42:00.003-04:00

Sorry it has been so long. Lots going on and I just haven't had the time to come blog. First off, the weather was BEAUTIFUL last week so we spent a lot of time outside.

Max's meds had been doing ok, but we finally got to see the psychiatrist last Friday. He thought putting Max on Dexadrine might help with the hyperactivity where the Ritalin really only took care of the aggressiveness. Hmm, so, we gave it to him Saturday and it worked alright, but when it wore off the kid was INSANE!! He didn't go to sleep until after 2:30 am and was up at 5:30am. This drug is an amphetamine. Most people would be zinging while they are on it. Not Max, he got his energy when the crap wore off. Not cool!! So, we are back on the Ritalin, just a little higher of a dose. Yesterday was the first day for that and it seemed to go ok. He definitely slept well last night. As did Alex for that matter. It was nice!

After running Max to the psych Friday morning at 7am, I had to drop Max off at school and pick Alex up to run him to the pediatrician. He didn't sleep well the night before, was running a fever, and was just plain cranky. I had a feeling it was an ear infection. I was right, and it was in the very early stages so I got a "great intuition, mommy!" I would have felt good about that, but I would really like to think it was my awesome nursing assessment skills!

Tim has been doing tons of yard work lately and our yard is looking good. Dead branches coming down, bare grass patches growing new grass, and weeds being pulled. Not to mention we finally replaced the crazy unsafe trampoline with a new one that has spring covers and a net. Not only does it have a net, but it has a zipper opening so we can lock the kids in ;) Haha!! They love it, but they also love swinging, blowing bubbles, riding bikes, and anything else they can find to do outdoors. Tim and I have been playing frisbie together too. It's insane kind of. A few years ago if you would have asked me where I'd be today, I would have said in the house on the computer with the kids watching TV. Not a good mommy that's for sure. But we are loving all the family time we get together. Not that there is a ton, but enough to keep me happy.

Speaking of happy, I still hate my job. I despise getting up at 10pm in the evening (after going to bed at 8) to go to work. I don't mind it once I get there, but just not being at home at night drives me crazy. I applied for a position in a doctor's office, but I haven't heard anything back, and even when I do I probably won't take it. As awesome as the hours are, it's only part time and with the loss of pay on top of that I think it would stress me out way too much. Lots of people are talking about traveling, moving, whatever at work so I will just continue to keep my fingers crossed that something different opens up soon. I'd even take 7pm to 7am over what I'm doing now. We shall see.

I'm trying to think of what else new has been going on. Really not much. Just lots of outside time and working. I have been doing horrible at keeping up with scrapbooking, although I'm hoping to get a few pages done today. I keep telling myself if I can just find a groove it'll be easy enough to get going again.

Here are a few videos to leave you with..and pictures too.

Please visit the photo/video website to see more!! There are some really good ones, but I didn't want to overload this post with all of them.

We are getting rid of the old trampoline soon. Tim is giving it to a guy he works with. We also want to upgrade the slide/swingset. The swings aren't in great shape and Alex scares me on the ladder. I want to get a rock climbing wall thing for the back and a newer slide for the front. We've also talked about getting some sort of firepit area going. The best place in the yard would be where the basketball court is, so that won't work. Unless we get one of those table firepits. Not sure about that though. We shall see. Still plenty of time to figure it out!

I promise to try to keep up better from this point on. I feel bad for staying away so long, but it's been hectic around here.

Yes, I know I am a slacker!!

2008-05-10T19:47:00.003-04:00

I did however get a ton of pictures of the boys while we played outside today. I've been sick (allergies) and so have both the kids. Darn this warm weather and everyone cutting their grass.

I still don't have time for any updates because I am soooo tired and I have to work tonight. I'm off to take a nap. I'll try to get in here tomorrow with updates and pictures. Check out dropshots in the meantime though. They are all there. I'll only post the best ones here!!

Miss you all!

First day back to school!

2008-04-29T13:33:00.002-04:00

I guess I should have updated yesterday about this. Max's first day back to school on meds went well. Miss Sarah said she didn't notice a change in his activity level, but Sparkles the tooth fairy was there so you can't blame him for being excited. Haha!! He did have less outbursts and seemed to be able to stay on task better though so that's a good start. When I picked him up yesterday afternoon he was in music class. He sat on the floor with his little legs crossed listening intently. I couldn't believe it and wouldn't have had I not seen it myself. I guess the meds are working!!

Alex has his 18 month appointment later today so that should be interesting. I'm thinking he has fallen off the growth charts, but then I remembered that their scale weighs differently than ours. Maybe he is doing ok. He's definitely active and that probably burns more calories, but we shall see.

I'm back to work tonight after having 6 nights off. I'm soooo not looking forward to it, but I know it'll be fine once I get there. I do look forward to getting some real sleep this week without the kids interrupting me 5 times. And no little knees in my back and arms across my forehead.

I'll try to make it back tonight to let you know how Alex is doing, otherwise, I'll definitely update later this week!

Back home!

2008-04-28T13:06:00.002-04:00

But you probably didn't even know I was gone. I took the boys this weekend and headed up to MI to see the grandparents. We were going to stay until today, but Max and I decided that driving while the kids were sleeping would be a better idea. They got up just in time to go to school today which was nice for me. I took a nice long nap when I got home and finally got up and around to start unpacking. Laundry is being done now and I did the dishes earlier. So proud of myself. Stinks that I have to go back to work tomorrow.

My dad looks good. He looks like he lost a lot of weight, but I'm sure that won't hurt him. My brothers were around all weekend doing yard work and other heavy duty stuff that my dad shouldn't do and he spent the weekend supervising. It was pretty entertaining to say the least. My mom had an awesome dinner Sunday afternoon, made by neighbor Pat, and all of us were there. Haven't done that in a long time!

We also spent mornings with grandma and grandpa. They are doing well and of course loved having the boys over. It was warm enough Friday evening when we got there to play outside so the boys got to squirt each other with grandpa's hose and get completely soaked. We also headed over to Mike and Katherine's yesterday afternoon so Max could play with Splendid. They had alot of fun. We had pizza and cupcakes too which was great! I'll always eat cupcakes ;)

Max started his Ritalin this weekend as well. My little man could swallow that pill on the first try with no problems! I was so proud of him. Each time he had to take one he would show me his mouth so I would know it went down, and he was pretty excited about it too. I can't say I noticed a huge difference, but I could tell when it started wearing off so it must be working. Today will be the real test since he's at school.

I guess I really don't have much else to talk about. I thought there was more, but nothing is coming to me. I need to get back to work anyway so I'll talk to everyone later!

Oh Miss Jessica!! Read here please!

2008-04-24T18:16:00.003-04:00

What happened??? I was going to talk to Beth but there were several other parents around and I was in a hurry since it was already after 5. Tomorrow won't be much better since we are leaving for Michigan. Please leave me a comment, e-mail me, call me, something!! Rajah1000 @ gmail.com without the spaces. I'm dying to know whats up. You already looked in a bad mood this morning so I'm sure you were ticked about something. I'm going to miss you so somehow this will not be the end!!!

For everyone else, none of your beeswax! Haha, just kidding. Not much new to report. Had Max's first counseling appointment tonight. He acted all shy at first, was a little obnoxious in the office, but overall did ok. We'll probably start out doing this weekly for awhile and see if it helps. They are hoping Tim can come next time. He was supposed to be there tonight, but too much going on a at work. GRR!

Heading to MI tomorrow to see the grandparents and Max is very excited about that. Alex is just cranky so I think I'll be putting him to bed any minute!

Boredom post!

2008-04-23T12:01:00.002-04:00

I really want to be scrapbooking right now, but I cannot focus so here I am. I have the news on in the background and decided I would come here to talk about it rather than calling Tim at work. He'd kick my butt.

Let me preface this by saying I still do not know who I am voting for come November. However, I'm finding the democratic race to be quite humorous. Hillary is soooo smug about her win in PA boasting about how she's still in the race. Did she read or hear about the stuff where tons of Republicans changed their party lines a short time before this election so they could vote in the democratic primaries. They are voting for her because they feel that their candidate is more likely to beat her in the end. She isn't going to get those same votes when the real election rolls around.

Does she know all this, and just has to play dumb so people think she's confident. Or does she just not get it?

I can honestly say I do not want to be voting for her come election day. I've had enough of that family..although I've had enough of the current president as well.

I usually don't talk politics because I can't back my beliefs up with facts, but this just really struck me as funny! I say GO OBAMA because then I feel like I'll actually have to do my research in a few months rather than making a decision based on default.

K, that's all I have for now. I should be back but we'll have to see. As I said, I'm not very focused today. I am going to see my parents this weekend though so I'll definitely have that to talk about in a few days!

My daddy is home!!!

2008-04-20T20:04:00.002-04:00

Well, not home as in back in Michigan, but he has finally been released from the hospital. They let him go last night. He's eating and doing great!! They have a flight leaving Florida first thing in the morning on Wednesday and should be home that afternoon. I'm so excited. Now I can't wait to get up there and visit. Hopefully I can work that out soon.

No more time to post tonight. Had a great day today, but not nearly enough sleep considering I worked last night and I'm working again tonight. I was outside with the boys from 1:00 when I woke up until 5 when I finally coerced them inside with the promise of a bath. Alex was clean and in bed by 6. Max was clean, helped pick up the basement and in bed by 7:30. I'm showered and now I'm taking a nap. I will try to update more tomorrow if I have anything to talk about ;)

Lots O' Updates

2008-04-19T14:16:00.002-04:00

I've waited a few days to write this post because I wanted to make sure I can get through it. Wednesday night Max did ok at gymnastics, but it's apparent that he is more hyper than the other kids. At least to me. After we got home and put the kids to bed, Tim came and said I could go ahead and medicate him. Not sure if it was my blog, my whining, or seeing him with the other kids, but thankfully he changed his mind. He did say I could say "I told you so" when it works, but he also said to expect one in return in 20 years when Max has some weird disease he got from taking the meds. Haha! Doubt that'll happen, but then again you never know.

Anyway, the reason I was so thankful he changed his mind was because of Thursday. I was only home from work for 20 minutes and about to go to bed when I got a call from school. Max had hit another child in the chest so hard she couldn't breath and then proceeded to bite her drawing blood. All because he didn't want her on the same toy he was on. I had to go get him. Needless to say it was no fun being awake more than 36 hours straight, but I survived. He was on the verge of being expelled, but fortunately his director really wants to work with him. She advocated for him big time, but also said getting him on meds was probably the only way they'd agree to let him stay. The soonest I could get in to see anyone is next Friday at his pediatrician. I also have an appointment May 9th with a psychiatrist who will take over his care. I would prefer that he be followed by someone who specializes in these meds and children.

Friday he was able to go back while I spent the day trying to get him in somewhere sooner and did ok. But let me tell you, I was scared to death to drop him off. I figured someone would say something about the previous day and he would explode again. Or anything could set him off really. It's like an impulse thing. Instead of getting the feeling, thinking about it and realizing it's wrong, he just acts and thinks about it afterwards where he ends up crying because he feels so bad. It breaks my heart. Both that he did it, and that he didn't mean to but couldn't stop himself in time. We discussed with him many times that if someone makes him angry he's supposed to go to Miss Connie's office to his safe place, and he'll tell you that if you ask him, but he just doesn't have time to think before he acts. Hopefully getting him on some meds will really help.

The next update is my dad. He seems to finally be getting better everyday. He's now eating solid foods and doing great with them. His white counts are heading downward which is great too. The last time I spoke to him they were planning on releasing him Monday. Not sure when they'll get back to MI but at least he'll be here soon.

Hmm, I guess next would be the earthquake. Yup, you read that right. In case you didn't hear about it in the news, there was an earthquake in southern Illinois. We felt it all the way up here in South Bend. Thanks to our kids being up at 5am we were laying in bed in a semi sleep when it happened. It was a very strange feeling to get woken up by your bed shaking and dresser handles rattling. My first thought was earthquake and sure enough it was on the news just a little while later. Kinda cool since it wasn't a big one that did much damage. I wouldn't want to live where they happened regularly though.

Next is Russ. He had his surgery this week and from what I hear it didn't go as well as planned. He is doing better now though, and we'll just kinda wait to see what comes of it. Hopefully they find it's nothing and he can get back to life!

Yesterday was gorgeous outside and Tim came home from work a little early so we let the boys stay up way too late. We played, sat on the big swing, let Alli take them for a walk. It was so beautiful. Alex was dressed enough that he could be cleaned up with a washcloth and was sent to bed only a little late. Max on the other hand desperately needed a bath so in the tub he went. He was more than 2 hours late for bed which I knew meant bad things for this morning. He was a grump and acted up big time at gymnastics. After a nap though, he's been doing ok.

I work the next 4 nights in a row so that'll be slightly stressful. Tim isn't off till Tuesday which means I'm on my own tomorrow with no sleep. Fortunately Alli has agreed to come babysit so I can get at least a few hours uninterrupted.

I guess that's about all I've got for now. Alex is out walking with Alli again and Max is upstairs watching a movie so I need to use this time to get me another nap. I'll keep updating as I have more info!

I think my eyes are broken

2008-04-16T11:25:00.002-04:00

I found this on my camera when I went to get pictures off this morning. Only, it's just not possible that this situation ever occurred so how can there be a picture?

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Really, both of them sitting still at the same time?? And next to each other? It can't be right. I'll have to check with Tim when he gets home because I know I didn't take this picture.

Just talked to my dad a little bit ago. He sounds really good. He said he's on a clear liquid diet now, but doing well with it. Hasn't gotten sick yet. He's starting to feel alot better too, but its a slow going process and that's driving him crazy. Hopefully we'll find out soon when they are going to release him. He had to hang up in a hurry because a nurse came into the room so I'm also hoping they call back at some point later today.

I've been cleaning the house this morning which is so not fun. Next on my list is to go put away the piles of laundry on the couch upstairs. I've never seen the piles so big before so I'm thinking every piece of clothing the boys own was dirty. I'm back to work tonight too so anything not done isn't getting done.

Max has gymnastics tonight if he can make it through the school day without getting into trouble. It's watch day so I should be able to get some pictures if Alex cooperates. We actually get to be inside the gym in the balcony as opposed to sitting outside the mirrored window. Max is pretty excited about that so I'm thinking he'll have a good day.

Not much else to talk about. Just had to share that picture when I saw it. I still don't believe it.

Were the answers right?

2008-04-15T10:15:00.002-04:00

Max had a big blow up at school today. Again. This time he scratched his teacher and drew blood from her hand. NOT cool! The director called me. I think it helped keep his spot there that she knows we had him evaluated. She's not sure she agrees with the fact that he is "only" ADHD. She thinks there may be something more that the psychologist wasn't able to see only having 3 sessions with him. Maybe oppositional defiant disorder? Not sure, but his outbursts are bad. Usually removing him from the situation and taking him somewhere he feels safe helps, but we can't continue to let him have these out of control behaviors. The director has 4 sons, one with ADHD, one with ADD and ODD, and two that were ok. She's been there done that and really is willing to help us. I just pray we can figure out what works for him and stick with it. It kills me to know he always feels remorse after his episodes. He doesn't like that he gets that way, but he can't help it. He can't stop it on his own before it goes to far so I guess that's up to us to help him learn.

It definitely makes me want to hurry up and get him into counseling. For his sake and for ours. The sooner he can learn to control himself and we can learn how to help him, the sooner I might not feel like such a horrible parent. I agreed not to push for meds because Tim is so against it at the time being. However, what if they would help?? They helped Rusty, but I know every person is different. I just don't want him to go through life being labeled as the angry kid. Especially because he is so loving and caring when he isn't blowing up. Anyway, I feel like after today I want him on meds more than ever. Because I want to help him find balance long before he starts school.

I don't know much right now other than I'm sitting here with tears in my eyes feeling so guilty that he's this way. Wishing I could just flip a switch and make it better. I'm sure tonight when Tim gets home we'll talk about it. Hopefully that'll leave me feeling better than I do right now. I do know I'm calling the friend who referred us to the psychologist so I can find out from her who to take him to for counseling. I'd like to get that set us ASAP.

I'll let you know more when I know more.

As for my dad, he was supposed to have some infected drainage sucked out yesterday but that didn't happen. Not exactly sure why since I didn't talk to my mom. I'm hoping she call herself today so I know what's going on. Originally they were thinking they'd release him this week so I'm hoping that still happens. I'm also curious to see if he has been able to eat and drink yet without getting sick. Again, you'll know more when I do.

Tim is awesome!!!

2008-04-14T13:47:00.002-04:00

I was playing around on the internet, as usual, and all of a sudden he hands me a bacon, egg, and cheese biscuit. It was soooooooo good! Nothing like homemade. He should really be a chef ;)

Finally, some answers!

2008-04-12T09:36:00.002-04:00

I'll start with Max because I know everyone has been waiting to hear what we found out yesterday. I meant to post last night, but I was too tired.

Max's IQ is above normal. He's in the 82nd percentile which means only 18% of kids his age know more than he does. However, his attention span was in the normal range. If you look at either of the tests alone, he appears pretty normal, but a little smart. If you put them together, he appears to have ADHD. For his intelligence level, he should definitely be able to still a lot longer. She also said some of the attention test was on the computer and he did really well there. Since he hyperfocuses on the computer, that may have caused him to test higher in the attention portion than if she had given it orally. Basically, if his attention matched his intelligence he'd be in the 98th percentile. Because of the discrepancy she definitely feels that he does have ADHD.

She recommended we see a doctor who would prescribe meds because she really feels that they would help Max. Tim doesn't necessarily agree with meds though, and I really wanted to wait until he goes to school. So, our next option is counseling. Max would go some on his own and do play therapy, but Tim and I would also be involved with learning how to help him deal with his impulsiveness, attention problems, and meltdowns. Tim agrees that that's the best place to start and we'll go from there.

Nothing really surprising. Dr. Monroe was very impressed with Max and it cracked her up that he would ask if they could be done with the questions because he was bored. He really just wanted to get back to the waiting room to play.

As far as an update on my dad, he's doing better. He did have another infection pocket erupt yesterday, but it's probably a good thing because now it's out and he can work on continuing to get rid of the infection. His NG tube is out and yesterday they started letting him drink little bits at a time. If he can keep it down without getting sick to his stomach than they'll increase the amount and what he's allowed to have. Hopefully his antibiotics will continue to work and his white count will continue to go down. At this point he is supposed to be released next Wednesday unless his labs don't look good or something else pops up. My mom still isn't sure how long they'll stay down in FL as she likes that they are handling his IV antibiotics well. It would be a hassle for him to fly home in between doses. We shall see though. I just want them home so I can go visit and take the boys to see him.

Tim told me last night he heard of a bar near here that has rock bands on Saturday nights. So, of course he wants to go out again. Since we rarely ever do, I'm all for it. Alli is probably still sleeping though so I have to wait a bit to call and see if she can babysit! Keep your fingers crossed. With all the sickness going around, I just want to have fun and forget it all for a night.

We are all home for the weekend so I'm hoping to do something that doesn't include vegging on the couch. Unfortunately its supposed to rain all weekend so that really limits what we can go do.

I'm off for now, but I shall return!

Boys SUCK!!

2008-04-10T20:01:00.003-04:00

K, first let me start with Max. I totally forgot to mention this, but a few weeks ago when I was dropping him off I overheard something I never thought I'd hear. At least coming from a 4 year old. One little girl did something Max didn't like. He called his "girlfriend" over and whispered "Go tell ??? you're gonna kick her ass." Little girl saw me standing there and refused, but I wonder if she would have done it (repeated what he said at least) if I weren't there. I told his teacher so she would know we didn't find that acceptable. Yikes!

Today someone didn't do what he wanted them to do so he kicked and hit at them. Got talked to and 5 minutes later did it again to another child. When the teacher tried to take him out in the hall to talk to him, he kicked at and hit her. HUH??? He loves this teacher!!! He got sent to the office where they would now like to know how we would handle such a situation. That's a tough one. At home he might get spanked and would definitely be sent to his room. Most likely we would take away his computer and anything else he seems to be in love with at the time. No snacks, or anything fun for at least the rest of the day. What can they do there though?? Tim out in the office and stay there until he wants to be human again is the only thing I can think of. Fortunately we have his appointment with the psychologist tomorrow to find out the results of his testing. I'm hoping to bring that up and see what she has to say.

On to Alex. That kid is an absolute monster. In addition to having no fear and getting into anything and everything, he's a mean bully!! He hits at home, beats the crap out of Max and has been pushing other kids down at daycare. Last week he knocked one girl off a bookshelf that he probably taught her to climb up on. Spanking him does no good because it just teaches him to hit more and he doesn't listen to NO at all. I've tried time outs, but he's really still too young for that. I get right in his face and tell him that it's unacceptable, but how much does he really understand. I guess it's good practice for when he does, but I am at the end of my rope with these two monsters. And second, today he grabbed his teacher's chest and said "boobie" Where did he get that from????? We don't use that word, and really, we don't much talk about them around here because I'm the only one that has them. Max was curious for awhile when Alex was still breast feeding, but it doesn't come up that much. How embarrassing!!!

With all that is going on with my dad right now, I'd really just like to curl up in a ball on the couch and cry. Veg, scrapbook, whatever. Nothing stressful that's for sure. These kids do not give up though. If I don't get myself medicated with some happy pills I'm going to have to start medicating them or someone isn't going to make it to their next birthday.

Ahhh, feels better to get that out.

A bit of mindless rambling for my sanity.... Today is Thursday. I have a gazillion shows that I watch on Thursday nights and Tim decided tonight of all nights to download and start watching Juno on his computer. It's a chick flick! Might be a comedy but it doesn't seem like something he would like. How come he has to watch a movie that I've been dying to see on a night when I already have enough to watch? He can't wait til this weekend when there will be NOTHING on TV to watch?? GRR! Men!

EWWWW! Someone on Survivor just ate bat. That is nasty. I guess where he's from that's normal, but just gross!!! I don't care how hungry I am, there is no way.

Bill and Rusty are down on FL with my parents now. I must say that I'm quite jealous. They also haven't called to give me an update today. Wonder if they think because they are all there I don't need information anymore. Um, I don't think so. Mom did give me some pretty good updates on where things stand when I talked to her yesterday, but I expect a call everyday. It's bad enough that I can't be there but to be left out of the loop too just sucks!

I guess that's about all I have for tonight. Just needed to get a few things off my chest. I'm sure there'll be more this weekend! Stay tuned!

What will be #3??

2008-04-08T19:56:00.003-04:00

So, first my dad. He still isn't doing well. From what I understand, he's feeling better, but still isn't doing great. His white count is still up so that means there is infection somewhere. If the infection gets in his blood, that could be bad. My mom has been working on getting him home, but so far it's hard. They have to prove he'd do better at home with his doctors because insurance won't cover medi-vac if it's just for their convenience. Bill and Rusty are flying down to FL tomorrow so spend a few days with them and then drive the car back up. Either way my mom and dad will be able to fly home and not have to worry about the car. I just wish I was there, or could go there or be with them. It's driving me nuts that I'm stuck here and can't do anything. Even if they are able to get home later this week, my schedule, and Tim's, next week don't allow for much time to travel. I will find a way to make it work though.

Anyway, on to #2. Russ (Tim's mom's husband) called yesterday to tell us he had a lump removed from his lip and it turned out to be malignant. He has to have surgery again next week to make sure they got all the bad tissue. Then there is the possibility of chemo or other treatment.

I have been a basket case for the last week and a half with my dad and now it's gotten worse. All I can think about it who will be next. These things always come in threes. I'm afraid to let the kids play outside, I'm afraid that every phone call is going to be bad news. Who knows, it could be me.

All of this happening makes me want to quit smoking, get Tim to quit chewing, start eating healthier, etc. But even though it's in my head as the right thing to do, it's not in my heart. Especially quitting smoking. I want to grow old with my children and be there for them, and if I were to get sick I couldn't do that. But at the same time, I just don't know that I'm strong enough to do it. Especially now. Ugh!! Why does life have to suck sometimes??

On a lighter note, the weather has been amazing. We stopped by McDonalds today on the way home because it was late, ate quick and went outside for awhile before bedtime. The boys just want to play on the trampoline which of course makes me a nervous wreck. They did have fun though. Tim came home and spent some time with us out there as well. Now they are snuggled safely in their beds. I should probably be napping, but I slept enough today that I should be fine tonight.

I guess I don't have much else. Please keep our families in your thoughts and prayers!!!