The Martins Est. 2000

Blogaroo

2009-10-05T17:09:00.002-05:00

So, I promised more blogging and then life happened and I chose the wrong way in the fork in the road. The one that headed towards illness, stress, and busy-ness (how do you spell that without spelling business...like a workplace)? Wow, I blog again and that's what you get!

I'm working hard on my Esther Bible Study and LOVING IT! It's main theme is that It's Tough Being a Woman...do I need to say anything more? I tried to cheat on some of the answers and went to www.esther.com but, I suggest you not do that unless you want to see a very scantily clad woman of maybe asian or hawaiian descent? Yep, I know how to find porn without really looking for it!

Work is good. The working for Scott is super good. I'm loving learning about what he does (not the nerdy part...don't get me wrong) and I'm having tons of fun working on some marketing ideas to build up our little office here in this part of the world.

Spending more of the day with Scott and being able to talk about more things we've suddenly been talking a lot about this life and the meaning to it...the everyday meanings and recently up came the word "Integrity" - shoot...I can't even spell it so we obviously haven't gotten all that far. These days nobody has manners anymore. People chew with their mouths open and cut in front of you in line...and most recently I found out that someone very close to me is telling people that I'm a terrible mother. Who does that? Is that what life is about? Hurting others to build yourself up? Scott and I want to be that couple, that family, those Christians that SCREAM "we are who we say we are and we'll do what we'll say we're gonna do and darn it we love you"....now I'm starting to sound a little Stuart Small-y. I'm just saying that why don't we make a point every day to do something nice for someone? Why don't we remember our manners and etiquette and if someone's hurting...get your butt over there and help instead of kicking them even harder?

I've challenged the kids to pick one point during the day to find a way to help another kid out at school. It can be picking something up for them that they've dropped, help them if they fall or are struggling with school work...anything that shows another child that they love them because that's what we're here for. Man, if I could share the excited stories I get every afternoon about ways that they've found to help.....I'm getting goosebumps right now.

So, no, I'm not the perfect mother...and, yes, sometimes I forget to say thank you when I should. But, you better believe that my heart is brimming, no, overfilled with love for my kids and the people they're loving all over every single day. And, that....to me....is worth any negative thing any person has to say about me.

It's tough being a woman in a mean, mean world...but, it's easy to get through it when you have a Super Man on your side!

"O to grace how great a debtor
Daily I'm constrained to be!
Let Thy grace, Lord like a fetter,
Bind my wandering heart to Thee.

Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it.
Prone to leave the God I love;
Here's my heart, O take and seal it,
Seal it for Thy courts above."

Wild Weekend

2009-09-02T19:53:00.009-05:00

We had a GREAT weekend and I just now finally got the pictures uploaded. I think there were over 100!
Friday night I overcame my co-dependancy and went to the Beth Moore simulcast by myself. I haven't really met anyone at our new church, yet, but I really, really wanted to go to the simulcast...so I put my big-girl britches on and went. There is nothing else like a Beth Moore Bible Study or Simulcast and if you ever want to be totally refreshed and reenergized by the Word of God you MUST do one of her studies! I could not have gotten through the last year without them!
On Satuday I had to miss the final day of the simulcast because the little mister had his first soccer game and I really didn't want to miss it. It was so cute...right before the game he looked at Scott and I and said "I'm scared...What if nobody remembers me?" I assured him that since they had just seen him 3 days before at practice I was certain that they would be able to remember him. I was really proud of him...he got out there and played his little heart out! (And, didn't even ask once what the snack was going to be!)

After the game we headed back to Topeka to spend the night. Scott had his fantasy football draft in Manhattan the next day (which he's won the last 3 years!) and I wanted to take the kids to our old church's carnival. We had SO much fun! They had all kinds of great things to do and we spent almost 4 hours there.

That's Papa in the dunk tank. The kids couldn't wait to dunk him! :)

We surprised Darby with a fun visit from two of her friends from Randolph! They had a GREAT time!

I showed off my muscles!

Scott and our friend, Matt, in the inflatable jousting ring!

I'm not sure who this guy is!?!

We had a fabulous time with all of our friends and family! A big shout-out to Anna and all the people who worked their butts off for the carnival! You guys did an amazing job and we were so grateful to be able to go! This weekend is looking promising for another busy few days. Someday soon, we're hoping to take a weekend off and relax...although I'm thinking it may be awhile! :)

Random thoughts...

2009-08-27T09:00:00.002-05:00

I had a big happy blog all thought out in my head over the weekend and then everything just went to crap.
Two deaths, sick kiddo, laundry piled up...welcome to my life!
We're getting adjusted to the "real" life again. Working, school, PTA, homework...it's all rushing back to me now. But, I can't complain too much. Things are going as smoothly as they possibly can. Aidan has a really bad cold and stayed home from school today. I'm thinking one good day of rest will help him get back on his feet again. But, at least there's no puking involved. And, it gives me a day to catch up a little (in between watching cartoons and waiting on a whiny 7 year old hand and foot).
One of my dearest and oldest friends' dad passed away unexpectedly and my great-uncle Leo also passed away this week. It's so good to know that they are both healthy and whole again in heaven...but, it's still so sad for those that are left here mourning. We've just about had enough deaths this summer. I'm hoping that, like everything else, this too shall pass...
I wish I had some pictures to post...but, I just don't. I'm hoping to get a little mini "tour" of our new house put together for those that haven't seen it, yet. But, I'm guessing the house will need to be clean for that...which may take awhile. :)
I just wanted to check in and let you know that I'm not taking another blogging sabbatical or had gone crazy from all of the insanity here. This weekend will be very busy and full of some exciting things so I should have a great post for next week.
Until then, know that I'm praying for each and everyone of you. This life is way too short to waste not telling everyone that you love just how much you love them or how often you think of them. I just love you all to bits and pieces and in no way, shape or form could have gotten through this last year without each and everyone of you! Big Hugs.....

Back to Work!

2009-08-19T15:55:00.004-05:00

Today was my first day back to work. I am working part-time at Scott's firm doing some admin stuff, small tax returns, and mostly payrolls for clients. I'm actually kind of excited to get back into an office environment, at least for a little while! The firm takes such good care of us and offered me the job until I figure out what I want to do with the rest of my life. Scott will be my "boss" so I'm excited to work with him throughout the week. We worked together the first 4 years of our dating/marriage which I thought would not work out (the working part, not the marriage part. okay, maybe sometimes both!) :), but, we do really well working together! Plus, he needs a chance to be in charge every once in awhile! It was so easy because I already know everyone and what the firm is about. It felt very comfortable going in today! The getting up at 6 a.m. - not so much. But, a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do!

I forgot how girly and pretty you feel when you get dressed up professionally. Thanks to some of my favorite people I was able to put together a brand new gorgeous outfit for my first day. Darby saw me this morning and said "Oh Mom, you look soo beautiful. Come over here...we need to take pictures of your first day!" So, I'm including the pictures of the fashion show. Don't pay any attention to the red face...it's normal thanks to these wonderful things called hot flashes!

Tonight Aidan has his first soccer clinic. He's actually sitting here in his gear already. I'm thinking he might be excited? I can't wait to see how it goes. Although, if I hear "Is it time to go, yet?" one more time, I may have to kill him...

Welcome Back

2009-08-18T17:30:00.002-05:00

Okay, so I know I took a break from blogging...obviously.
But, with my health and moving and everything else in our life it just seemed best if I spent my time focusing on the things that were in our face.
Now that we're getting back into the routine and making a new life here in KC, I thought it was high time I came back and did the thing...
We are moved. The kids are in school and I go to work TOMORROW!! It's been so awesome to see all of the prayers we begged for just covering our home, life, and everyday activities. So, thanks, for those that have been praying through our journey!
Obviously, things will not get less hectic, but, it will be nice to share thoughts, stories, prayer requests, and of course lots of pics as we get situated here.
Thanks for those of you still checking in on us. If you gave up, I don't blame you. But, if you're still here...welcome back. It's good to see you friend!

Changes, okay, revamping...

2009-08-18T10:39:00.001-05:00

if you're still checking...bless your heart! but, i'm working on getting this back up again!! check back later!

Good Start (No, not the baby formula...)

2009-01-02T15:32:00.002-06:00

You know it's going to be a good year when you start it off with the stomach flu! Everyone's writing about how this year is going to be a year of change....oh, yes, it is - change the sheets, change the p.j.'s, change the hand sanitizer 'cause it smells funny......

We had a really good holiday, as you can tell by my lack of posting. It was busy and crazy and just a little sad. So many new things coming our way this year. Where will we be next Christmas? I have no clue, but I DO know The One who does. He has it planned out for us and so I'll rest assured in His arms.

The kids really enjoyed the holidays, as always. I'm so amazed by their maturity this year. Things are tight....with everyone, and unfortunately we're living in a time where our kids actually know the meaning of "economy" and "market" - but, it's provided many a good lesson on the meaning of "gratefulness" and "contentment". What the enemy intends for harm, our God uses for good.

Scott was able to take several days off over the holidays and we used them to our advantage, because, as you know.....we won't see much of him until the end of April. We were talking about something going on this weekend when I remembered he starts working Saturdays this Saturday. It always comes too fast. He'll be traveling back and forth to K.C. every day starting next week. Pray for his safety and my sanity as we enter this time.

I've become obsessed with some books about Amish life and if you haven't heard me tell this before....When I read a book, I am literally transformed into the book. It takes me a good couple of days to adjust back to the real world. I think that's why I love reading so much. So, I had to put the books down when I'd stop myself in the middle of the "Oh, I should go get started on the milking and after that I think I'll whip up some homemade jams and jellies" thoughts. Yes, it gets that bad!

I'm having surgery in about 10 days. I'm on my knees that this is what will turn my health around. It gets old when people ask "How are you?" and, you just have to smile and say "Fine." or else they'll get the whole chapter book on periods and ovulation and other socially inappropriate topics. It's good we're all friends here and I can type these things unabashedly.

It's at this time that I would love to share wonderful pictures of our family celebrating the joy of Christmas with you all, but, then there's the problem of getting the pictures out of my camera that I never took! So, this is what you get, doesn't it kind of remind you of those "Christmas Letters" that a family member sends you every year? Except, they probably don't talk about vomiting and woman problems in those. Nope, pretty sure they don't......

All Done...Until Next Time!

2008-12-08T17:08:00.002-06:00

I'm done.

I passed! And, even better, I got a 92%. Oh yeah, no crying was involved either.

So, that's it until I take my practical boards when I graduate. Which, at the rate I'm going, will be in another year.......hopefully not.

Thank you so much for your encouragement and prayers. I seriously couldn't have gotten through this time without you all. So, be prepared, when the practical comes up I'll be sure to enlist your help again!

Nerves of Steel.....

2008-12-08T09:01:00.003-06:00

I don't got 'em....

Today is the big day. 4:30 to be exact....I will be sitting in a teeny tiny cubicle testing my life away. I feel like I know the information, but at the same time, what if I don't know enough, or what if what I know isn't on the test - it'll be some obscure thing I forgot to look up or study? Is this test anxiety or what? I've heard of girls going in there and as soon as the door shuts, they start crying. Oh Lord, I hope that's not me.

Plus, my mama-mode is in high gear because Aidan is sick with a nasty cold and Darby is at the doctor's office as I speak having a strep test done. She spent most of the weekend with 103-104 degree temperatures and a sore throat. Thankfully, I have a good husband who is taking the day off to help me out.

So, there I am. Nerves a-dancin' like butterflies and the Luttjohann curse of "tummy nerves". I'll post tonight with my score......if it's worthy of sharing. If I don't, for some reason, pass - I will have to wait until I'm completely graduated and take it ON THE SAME DAY as the practical exam (the actual doing of hair and such, in front of proctors). You're talking an 8 hour process. SO, I'm really hoping that I won't even have to go there. Really, really hoping.....

Love you all - thanks so much for the prayers. They are more than appreciated!

New "Aidan-isms" and Life As We Know It

2008-11-24T20:30:00.000-06:00

The kiddos were sitting at the table the other day and of course Darby was torturing him with something terrible about the food he was eating. I corrected her and he looked at her and said "Guess I won't be listening to your advice anymore!"

We introduced the kids to Bobo's Drive-In last week and Scott's mom, Terri, went with us. She let each of us try one of her onion rings and Aidan shook his head up and down and said "Mmmmm...that's impressive."

Darby had to sleep with Aidan the other night because her bed was, um, incapacitated? and needed some airing out. After about 10 minutes of giggling and whispering I was just getting up to tell them to calm down and get to sleep....Aidan walked out and asked us if we could please make her leave his room because she was "distractin'" him.

He's really into using big words and big phrases these days and, miraculously, picked up reading practically overnight. We were still able to spell words around him without him picking up on what we were talking about. Those days are over.

I'm trying really hard to keep this blog up. I know it doesn't look much like it. But, with my exam, and a possible major surgery, and moving and what-not, it's not leaving me much time for anything else. Pray for my focus to stay on God and not the things that are happening around me. I read a really neat article the other day about Endometriosis and how the pain can become your idol because it ends up being all you think about. I can so relate. You pick the lesser of two evils - stay in pain and unable to live your life, or go on pain meds and float through your life. December 9th I will go in for a consult to just have the whole shebang taken out. Pray for the ability to work this out as I have so much packing and cleaning and "fixing up" to do. It's a bit overwhelming.

I'm off to watch ESPN. I know that sounds ridiculous coming out of my mouth, er, keyboard. But, Scott scored an awesome ticket to the tournament (i.e. KU game - two rows up) and the kids and I've been watching him the whole game. I called him a little while ago to tell him to quit biting his nails. Even on a boys night out I can keep my eye on him. How awesome is that? ;)

Beauty 101...

2008-11-14T10:58:00.000-06:00

If I start throwing out big words like anode and cathode, or orbicularis oculi, and maybe even immiscible substances - it's not because I suddenly turned genius and started medical school. It's because these are actual things I have to know to become a liscensed cosmetologist. Hey, I just signed up to do hair!

I will be taking my state boards in approximately 3 weeks and I am a studying fool. I'm taking practice tests (and failing miserably) and making notecards and reading a TEXTBOOK. I know, you envy my life.

Please pray that I can stay focused (how am I supposed to do that when Jon and Kate are about to renew their vows, and the Real Housewives of Atlanta are in such a tizzy, not to mention Meredith and McDreamy are finally together!?!?). My priorities are SO in line! I'm not a good test taker, that is why I'm a cosmetologist. But, unfortunately the state of Kansas thinks that in order for me to roll a great perm or turn people blonde/red/brunette/gorgeous requires me to have the knowledge of chemistry, electricity, and anatomy/physiology. So, I guess I have to follow the law. Speaking of, there are exactly 10 law questions on the test, too - mental note...study law.

If you don't hear how I did on this test, I'm sure it's because I only failed by one point......

It's Days Like These.......

2008-11-11T17:21:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was the kids' last annual visit to Dr. Cooley's office......Sigh.

Nurse Ellie and I shared a few laughs and a lot of tears as we reminisced over the last 8 years. The middle of the night phone calls for 103 degree fevers and Saturday visits. Oh, and the week Aidan had to go in EVERY SINGLE DAY for Rocephin injections in his teeny little one-year-old booty for a very persistant ear infection - he would cry as soon as he saw Ellie's face for the next year - he just knew she was going to hurt him again. And when Darby had her first seizure 5 years ago? Ellie and Dr. Cooley were there. They were there to take care of my kiddos, they were there to comfort me as a mommy, they were always there when we needed them. I know we'll find a good doctor in KC, but he/she won't be Dr. Cooley. And, the new doctor's nurse won't be any Ellie. They won't remember my babies when they were actual babies. Or, my brothers and me, as little kids. I know it's silly to be so emotional over a doctor's office, but, they were our security when we were facing RSV when Aidan was a baby and when we faced epilepsy with Darby as a toddler. That means a lot to me.

These are the days that are going to be hard as we face our next chapter. But, they also remind us what we have to look forward to when we get there.....new memories, new places, and new friends. Sure, we'll miss all of these things here, but they won't really be all that far away......about 60 miles to be exact! :)

p.s. The kids are super great! They are both very healthy and they had to endure their flu shots. But, we have a rule that when someone gets shots they get to pinch mommy's arm as hard as they want. I think I made out the worst in the whole process!

Oh, Yes, I Did.....

2008-11-07T16:05:00.000-06:00

cut

one of these

today!

It was basically the greatest day ever.

And, then, I signed up to take my State Boards, had as close to a panic attack as there can be because I haven't studied in, like, a year, and ruined the moment.

I have to tell you - I did that haircut on a 63 year old lady and I kept snipping off the ends and she'd say "Um, shorter." And, then, I'd snip off a little more and she'd say "Probably a little shorter". And, then, I got brave and cut the whole darn front off. That's a hair cut "first" that I swore I would never do. Never say never, I guess.

Sneak Preview......

2008-11-03T16:01:00.001-06:00

of the Martin Family Photo Shoot 2008 (these are just a few of my faves - out of the 293 taken)

These haven't even been cropped, edited, or nuthin'! Our photographer is a genius! And, so's her assistant!

Happy Birthday Doodlebug!

2008-10-24T07:30:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Gorgeous Girl!
Eight years ago today, you came into our lives, and we couldn't have been more excited! Your moods have always been contagious (yes, the good ones and the bad ones)! You're so smart and you've always used it to your advantage, like the time you weren't even 2 and I let you put lotion on in the morning and later that evening you came into the kitchen to tell me you could still smell your lotion. (If you hadn't forgotten to put the chair back, I would have never known you had snuck in for more!) You've always entertained us - when you were little with "The Look" and now your Mary Katherine Galligher-esque antics. Your teachers tell us every quarter how fabulous you are - helpful, courteous, caring and well-behaved. (We always wonder if we're talking about the right child when we leave there!) :) But, at the end of every day, I can always count on a hug and a kiss no matter what!
We know that some day you will be something great - once you get past the point of basing what you want to be when you grow up on what requires the least amount of schooling! We love you, little miss sunshine! You are the music in us!

Highs and Lows

2008-10-23T10:56:00.000-05:00

I hinted, well actually lamented, a few weeks ago that we had some very exciting, and scary, things going on in our life and I'm so excited to say that I can FINALLY open my big mouth about everything! Wahoo!
Scott has been promoted to Manager at his firm that he's been with for the last four years. This would normally be very exciting news but the hard part is that with this promotion comes the fact that he'll actually be the manager of the Overland Park office. In a season of layoffs and economic uncertainty, this has been a really huge blessing and a very scary transition all at the same time. The possibilities are enormous, however, the losses will be also.
I'm a family kinda girl. I've lived in the same town my whole life. My kids were born at the hospital I was born in and their pediatrician was my pediatrician. So, you see, even though it's ONLY 60 miles away.....it's still 60 MILES AWAY! But, deep in our hearts we always kind of knew this would be where we'd end up. I keep reminding myself it could be a city away or a state like my friend, Sarah, who's entire family lives in Colorado! (Sarah, you keep me humble about complaining!) :)
Fortunately, through this entire process we've chosen to not focus on any one thing, except for God. There were so many pros and so many cons and we knew we couldn't make a decision without Him. So, once we left it up to Him, He showed us where to go. I can't count how many times we thought it wouldn't happen because of this, or that, or another thing. And, the next day that door would swing wide open.
SO, although it's going to be hard, and there are days that I'm going to be homesick and my kids will be homesick and Scott's going to be working very hard...we've chosen to do this together as a family.
I actually had questioned keeping this blog, since OBVIOUSLY, I'm not very good at keeping it up. One night, I was thinking about maybe the next day just taking it down and for some reason I thought - "No, I'm going to need it." And, here we are! You'll probably get to see how frustrating it is to pack up and move to another city for a control freak like myself. And, once we're there, it will be a great way to keep connected with our friends and family here day to day (or month to month since we all know how my blogging skills go).
So, there it is. We have a to-do list that's a mile long and many things to finish up here, but I know we'll get it done. And, according to the kids, once we get there "WOOHOO, Worlds of Fun EVERYDAY!"
Thanks for supporting us and for those of you who've had to listen to me blubber, thanks also. And, for everyone in Topeka, don't worry - I've already had Scott work gas money to drive back and forth every weekend into the budget! :)

Little Boys...

2008-10-14T16:02:00.000-05:00

Their purpose in life is to create as MUCH havoc as they can on their mother's lives. The following is a true story and is in no way to be performed in your own home without supervision:

I'm talking to my friend, Jolene, on the phone and my mother's instinct perks up. Or, maybe it was the sound of the buttons on the microwave...Anyway, I jump up to go check out the situation just in time to see blue sparks emitting from my microwave. Of course, I shriek, right into the ear of poor Jolene and run to open the microwave and remove the offending piece.

Which, happens to be Aidan's METAL THERMOS for his lunch box. And, to think, I stopped it with only 52 minutes and 5 seconds to go. LORD HAVE MERCY!

I explained to my giggling tyrants that under no circumstance should metal ever be placed in the microwave EVER again....all the while, Jolene is giggling at me in the background....And, from now on all items being placed in the microwave must be approved by me. Darby looks at me and says "But, is Aidan's THERMOSTAT ruined?"

Nope, but I think the microwave's is.........

If You Happen To Be Home Watching T.V.

2008-10-04T19:05:00.000-05:00

The Titanic is on TNT. Watch for my Aunt Nikki. I think she went by the name "Rose" back in those days.

Darn her for throwing that necklace in the water!

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to School

2008-10-02T08:58:00.000-05:00

Every Thursday (like clockwork) we climb into the van to go to school and Darby screams "My library books!" And, every Thursday I shut the van off, go inside, dig around the laundry and retrieve the library books. Well, today was no different, as you can guess.
I bring the books out and hand them to Darby and Aidan says "Oh, the boat book. I really, really love that boat book." Darby informs him that it is NOT a boat book, it's a very important book about the Titanic and he does not know what he's talking about. She then goes into the story of the Titanic, because she actually read her library books this week, and I'm having to help her with Aidan's questions (like "What the heck's an iceberg?").
She gets to the part about people dying from drowning and freezing and that some people still lived even though they had to swim in the very coldest water you could ever imagine. And, she informs Aidan that it was a long, long, long time ago "even before Grandma Keri's mother was born". Aidan asked her who WAS alive when it happened and Darby tells him "Um, God."

Aidan says "Ooh, Ooh, I know who was......Aunt Nikki!"

So, Nikki, was the water really that cold?

Did You See My Face on the Side of a Milk Carton?

2008-10-01T16:57:00.000-05:00

Hello all. It's been awhile. My mother has resorted to checking my friends' blogs to see what's going on in our lives. Or at least pictures of her grandkids.

I'm recovering from a little surgery I had 12 days ago. (But, who's counting....) Slowly, very slowly, I'm starting to feel a little normal again...whatever that means. :)

I'm hoping that tomorrow I can get some pictures up on here. My camera is such a piece of junk and, oh yeah, so's the computer. So, the effort just hasn't been worth it but I feel bad for my children's grandparents so I'll put some on here to ease my guilt!

I just wanted to share these two funny little stories because they are so typical of every day here at the Martin house...

Story #1 - Darby and I were going through her closet on Monday weeding out all of the shirts that fit like they were glued to her body and pants that were screaming "We're waiting for the flood, y'all!" It's been a LOOOOONG time since I've done this and my kids' closets were not equipped to deal with fall weather. So, I'm digging through the closet and Darby's trying things on and I hear her say behind me "You know, Mom, I really don't like these turtle-lips. They're not very comfortable." As soon as I turn around she looks me dead straight in the eye and says "I said turtlenecks, I did, I really did. Turtlenecks." Yeah, uh huh.

Story #2 - Aidan is REALLY, and I mean REALLY, into sounding out words, asking us to spell stuff, spelling things to us. He's a never-ending walking dictionary these days. Today, he comes running into the living room and says "Mom, guess what!! I can spell something all on my OWN!" Of course, I'm waiting with baited breath, ready to be so proud of all the hard work I've put into making him a little genius and he says "I can spell ok. O---K! Woo Hoo!!" I'm so proud. Can anyone say "gifted"!?

Changes

2008-09-08T12:48:00.000-05:00

Change is inevetible. Merriam Webster defines change (in the noun sense) as an alteration, transformation, or substitution. I cannot count on all of my appendages the number of changes that happen in a single day at our house.

But, last week Scott and I were presented with one of, if not THE, biggest change we may be facing in the very near future. As much as I would love to spill details with you all, I just can't yet. But, trust me, I will as soon as the time is right.

In the process of life, we are faced with so much uncertainty and that is very unappealing for a control freak such as myself. But, some things are just not in our control. We can, however, choose to hand our control over to The One who is. And, that's just what we've decided to do. Our ultimate goal in this life is to live according to God's will and not ours. And, so, we've chosen to hope, believe, and trust in that. Our prayer is that whatever happens, wherever we are, and in whatever we do - God will be right there with us. We come to you all asking for prayer for wisdom and discernment for Scott and I, doors to open where they need be, and shut where they need be. We'll be right there on our knees with you!

I was given this song this morning and I just can't help but let it wrap itself around my weary heart:
I will praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
And every tear I've cried
You hold in Your hand
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm
(In case you're wondering....that's Casting Crown's "Praise You in This Storm".)

Thanks so much for being there for us! Thanks for being interested in our lives and thanks for loving us so much! We appreciate it beyond words!

For You, My Dear Jolene.....

2008-08-27T17:03:00.000-05:00

So, I got "tagged" by my dear friend, Jolene, to fill this out on my blog like 2 weeks ago. And, I'm actually getting to it! Although, a teeny tiny bit late! But, I DO have an excuse. As of last Tuesday I am officially a cosmetology student again. I'm having mixed feelings about it, so, we'll wait until I'm more comfortable again to talk about it. Anyway, here you go Jolene! Love you!

About me: A-Z
A - age - 29 ....at least for a few more months
B - birthday - October 26th
C - candy or cake - Either...in chocolate
D - dessert you love - See above
E - easiest person to talk to - yeesh, depends on what i'm talking ABOUT!
F - favorite song - right now I'm hooked on all the songs from the living proof live event from a couple of weeks ago!
G - gold or silver - silver
H - habit - y'all know this one and I'm trying to quit
I - instruments - flute and piano in grade school
J - job title - mommy, student
K - kids - 2 - i think - i lose track some days!
L - love or lust - love
M - married or single - married
N - next to you - everything that needs picked up and put away
O - one wish - to be beth moore's very best friend
P - person you called last - my brother andrew
Q - quotes - mostly scripture right now, and mostly the ones about anxiety and being scared
R - reasons to smile - my family and friends
S - steak or pork - definitely not pork
T - turns you on - really? i have to answer this?
U - unique talent - triple folding my tongue-it's genetic?
V - vegetable - i heart carrots
W - woke up at what time - 6:30-scott has a breakfast every wed. morning so i get the kiddos ready by myself
X - xrays I've had - last year when that idiot ran a red light and hit me and they had to check my insides....i think that's it
Y - your favorite color - PINK!
Z - zodiac - i'm not into zodiac, but i know i'm a scorpio...i think

Do you feel like you know me better!?!?
Sarah, put that baby down, it's your turn to fill this thing out!!!

The Finality of it All....

2008-08-18T07:31:00.000-05:00

Dear Scott,

You deserve this! You put your trust in God to get you through this and He prevailed! It's been a long, long road and there were SO many times when you questioned your path and the strength you would have to make it, but you remained steadfast in this battle - relying, sometimes, solely on the prayers of our good friends and family members.

Darby, Aidan and I are so proud of you! We love you Mr. C.P.A.!

Now get back to work!!

Growing Pains

2008-08-06T09:11:00.000-05:00

Someone is turning 6 tomorrow and I don't know who it's hurting more......

Him: Who realized lately that the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are really NOT giant, talking, kung-fu-ing turtles in "real life".
or
Me: Who realized lately it's been a long time since I've heard a story about Ericka Bericka. She's gone and I doubt she's coming back.

Him: Who's figured out he's too big to be held much more than 30 seconds anymore.
or
Me: Who hasn't heard "Iholjume" "Iholjume" ("I hold you me") every 30 seconds in years.

Him: Who's a little scared about starting Kindergarten next week.
or
Me: Who's a little scared about him starting Kindergarten next week.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BUBBA!
You are the most hilarious little man in our lives!
I never thought that I would literally get excited about certain cars driving by, Lego Indiana Jones, or soccer - but, here I am, a mustang lovin', playstation playin', soccer mama - thanks to you!
Your unconditional love for your sister is so amazing - who else can get punched in the arm and turn around and ask her what she wants to play next!?
You can be anything you want to be and, no, YOU do NOT have to do your wife's taxes when you grow up!
We love you to the moon and back!

Babies, Babies Everywhere!

2008-07-21T14:59:00.000-05:00

Cousin #5 came last Tuesday! I'm sorry I'm so long in posting, but I have been "under the weather". After a weekend of being poolside, I'm much better (and redder)! :)
Scott's sister, Angie, and her husband, Jared, welcomed Easton Dean (6lbs. 14ozs) on Tuesday night. I won't go into the gory details, but let's just say that when Angie got to the hospital she was halfway done laboring - and within 15 minutes he was born! Mama and baby are healthy and from what I hear he's been a great baby.

Marley is doing well and it is so emotional for me when I spend time with her because she reminds me so much of Darby. Andrew really has turned out to be a great daddy! (Not that we expected anything less!) :)
We are so excited to have all these new babies join our family and we're anxiously awaiting our friends, Sarah and Matt's, baby boy due in August. We're also very glad to not be the parents getting up with the babies all hours of the night!

Our "babies" seem to get bigger and bigger every day. We enroll in school next week and it's sad to see the summer coming to an end. (And, even sadder enrolling our baby-baby in Kindergarten!)

Scott is taking this week off for a little "vacation". We don't have anything planned but since it's a week off for the first time in two years, we're going to appreciate it. He took his fourth (and, hopefully, final) test this morning, so pray that this journey is over for him!

She's Here!

2008-07-12T21:47:00.000-05:00

Marley Jaye was born at 10:14 this morning after a LOOOONG night! 8lbs 12ozs. and 20 inches. She's doing great and Andrew and Ashley have done amazingly well. Now, we're just waiting on Angie (Scott's sister) to have our new little nephew any day now. Hopefully, not tonight. I'm tired.

Please Forgive Me....

2008-07-10T14:36:00.000-05:00

I know, this blog sucks.

Or, maybe it's me that has the issues. I seem to have lost interest in just about everything lately. The kids and I mostly hang out....at home....together....all day. Which is totally cool with me. But, they're getting tired of it, for sure.

I've really been struggling with my foot. I won't go into all of the disgusting, warty details. But, just to bring you up to speed, I'm now back to my original doctor because the THIRD doctor that I'd been passed off to was a complete idiot.
Everything came back, and then some, and so for awhile I honestly have felt very hopeless. This is very sad to say, but, I never in a million years would have felt pity for someone who had plantars warts. They just sound so, blah.....But, now that I've been dealing with them for 2 years, I have so much sympathy for anyone else who has gone through this. Google plantars warts some day when you're REALLY bored. I met someone who had them for 15 years. FIFTEEN! That's half of my life right at this moment.

I don't want to be that girl that every time you talk to me - all I talk about is my foot. (For those of you who've had to put up with that - I'm sorry and thanks!) So, I've kind of avoided this blog out of fear that that's the only thing I have to talk about. Hope you all don't mind that I'm bringing it up now. I actually have an appointment next week to discuss where we are going to go with treatment options, I've obviously exhausted all of the "normal" options and so, off we go with some "out of the norm" treatments. They include using formalin (similar to formaldehyde), immunity boosting injections, mumps injections, and bleomycin (a chemotherapy) injections. If all else fails, I do have the option of having a heel "transplant" which would totally stink. Especially, since I'm trying to go back to school. Can't do a lot of hair on crutches for 4 months. Not to mention the pain that my doctor is trying to control at the moment is no where near what it would be going that route.

So, there it is. There's where my mind is at. I'm sorry for the lack of interesting (or not so interesting) stories, pictures, and what-not. You know the cartoon character that walks around with the grey cloud over his head? That's been me the last couple of months. But, Thank God, I'm starting to feel the warmth of sunshine!

3 Down, 1 To Go!

2008-06-20T08:54:00.000-05:00

So..........

Scott passed!

One more test on July 21st.
And, then, hopefully he'll be done! Wahoo!! :)

That's the Night the Lights Went Out......

2008-06-09T12:46:00.000-05:00

So, last Thursday we were expecting SEVERE storms. So, "dangerous" they were comparing what we were about to get to the storms here in 1973 that produced tornadoes. If you know me, you know that I am deathly afraid of storms and, more importantly, tornadoes. I developed this fear when Scott and I lived in our mobile home years ago and anytime it rained it sounded, well, like rain hitting a metal roof....you get the picture. I won't even go into what hail sounded like. So, I got my storm strategy in action...1. Build a dam in the basement to prevent more flooding and prepare the spot in which we'd get on our knees and cover our heads...check, 2. Pack all my "valuables" in my purse, along with the flashlight, 2 candles and lighters (big purse!)....check and 3. Keep my eyes glued to the weather reporter (whose voice was shaking - doesn't help)....check.
We ate a quick dinner and waited out the disaster, ignoring all the other things I had wanted to get done that evening. When the storm "hit" it was all of 60 seconds of sideways rain and that was it. Yep, BIG STORM! However, apparently, the winds took out our power so for about an hour and a half we were in the dark. We decided to go hang out on our enclosed porch, which we never use, but turned out to be quite the entertaining spot.

Darby entertained us with some dancing....

And, just when we were trying to figure out sleeping arrangements for the night (I can't wait until our kids outgrow the "fear of the dark" stage)......

The lights came back on!

It actually turned out to be a fun evening! And, I did not die of a heart attack, anxiety attack, or any other attack resulting from my irrational fears. Chalk that one up as a good day!

Summer Fun

2008-06-05T15:27:00.001-05:00

Well, aside from cleaning up the 3 inches of water we got in our basement on Monday (we were going for the indoor pool-but 3 in. doesn't cut it), we have been having lots of fun this week.
Our neighbor's little boy, Nathan, came over last night for fun with the water hose. I was watering my plants and within 3.5 seconds had 3 children staring at me with swimsuits on. (They're like Superman-run into house and voila! swimsuits!). p.s. Yes, I DO realize that Darby's swimsuit is a wee bit small - we're retiring it today.

We've been making weekly trips to Scott's parents restaurant for free lunch/breakfast and down the strip there's a little grocery store with a pay phone outside of it. I don't know what my kids' obsession with pay phones is all about, but they love them. I'm not a fan - what with people putting drug needles laced with HIV in them. I know, I know - I'm paranoid and I'm okay with it. But, it's kind of cute to listen to them "call" people and have conversations with them.

Today, we went downtown to the capitol with our friends Jenny and Emily to have a "brown bag" lunch and dance to The Exceptions. They do this weekly and thanks to overcast skies, today was the day to go. (It wasn't at all for the free hot dogs, chips, and pop. But, that was a bonus!) My poor friend Jenny realized after we parked, walked, and sat for about an hour that she still had the change in her pocket that we were going to put in the meter. Oops! She is now the lucky owner of an $8 parking ticket. I did offer to pay for half of it! :)

If you look really closely, in that last pic they are all running around like chickens with their heads cut off. I swear, they did that for a half an hour straight. They had a blast.

This last picture is SimonBob being really grateful that his human mama is too busy (okay, lazy) to finish folding laundry. ;)
If I could be any animal I wanted, I'd most definitely be a cat!!

New Rule at Our House

2008-06-03T10:51:00.001-05:00

Your sister is NOT allowed to eat your two remaining bites of strawberries for you, while Mom is out of the room, so you can get up from the table. Even when "she's actually bein' nice to me, for the first time in a loooooooong time, though".
And, it was only 8:30 a.m.
That's all I'm going to say about that.

Weekend Fun

2008-06-02T09:34:00.000-05:00

We are recovering this morning from a super busy/super fun weekend! Friday morning we met my friend, Sarah and her daughter, Camdyn, at the zoo and had a great time. It was our 2nd time at the zoo in one week, but the kids really enjoyed it all the same.

Scott took Friday off because he had a CPA exam that morning and so, we got some good family time in. We had to go update our cell phones/plan and the kids did a great job being patient through the process so we decided to surprise them with something they've never done before. Lake Shawnee has paddleboats that you can rent out for $3/half hour. Darby was excited but, Aidan was actually a little scared to get on one. Afterwards, he said "That was really great, after all. I'm glad I didn't get scared anymore." He's the one who didn't want to get out of the little boat when we were all roasting from the sun. Figures.

On Saturday, Scott took Aidan to his "summer camp" for church in Solomon, KS. It was only a day camp for the Pre-K/Kindergarteners. They had a lot of fun. Darby and I ended up helping Andrew and Ashley move out of their apartment and into their new house in Montara. It was so hot outside. I think we were all sweating by 9:45 a.m. But, they got moved and the house is really cute.

Yesterday, we ended up spending the entire afternoon and evening working in our yard. I'm really bad about planting things and then deciding I want them somewhere else. So, I transplanted some ivy and a wisteria "bush". Scott's working on getting our back yard to start looking like a back yard. It's going to take a lot of work so we're glad for a good start.

Well, it looks like we're about to get some really bad storms, so I'm off to watch the weather.......

Hope everyone had a good weekend!

Retired!

2008-05-21T13:56:00.001-05:00

As of 11 a.m. yesterday, I am officially a non-working person. I thought it would feel weird, not having a "purpose" and then I walked in the door and saw huge piles of "purpose" in the sink, in the laundry hamper, in the kids' rooms....need I go on? I'm super excited for this summer, not that we have a lot planned because now we are minus one income, but I think it will be a good thing for the kids. Now, we'll just have to get into some sort of routine and not sleep in every morning. Which, for those of you who know me well and how I'm such a big fan of sleeping - this will be a struggle.
I'm excited for the opportunity for the kids to really spend time together. All these years they've been in separate classes, even at the same daycare, and so they are having to learn how to be each other's friend. Which is super-important to me. I talk to my brothers pretty much every day and wouldn't know what to do without their friendships. I really want my kiddos grow up to feel the same way about each other.
So, I implemented a really funny way of getting past bickering. Aidan loves it. Darby's not a big fan....
When they start arguing, I encourage them to work it out quickly or they know what's coming next.

They have to hold hands, first.

And, if that doesn't stop the arguing....

This usually does! :)

I know this picture doesn't look like anyone is having a bit of fun. But, after about a minute of standing like this, they start giggling and get over it.

This is going to be a fun summer!

I know, I know....

2008-05-02T14:43:00.000-05:00

I've become TERRIBLE at updating this thing. Last Friday we went to the annual Royals game with our church and I kept meaning to put up pictures......it's the thought that counts, eh?
Last year, when we went to the Royals game, it was BEAUTIFUL outside and we had a blast. This year.....well, I'll let you see for yourself.......

Aidan and his best buddies, Titus and Ezra.

Darby and her friend, Melissa.

Four layers of clothes and winter coats....at the end of April.

In the only picture I have of Scott, he looks angry, I think it was just because his hiney was frozen.

In spite of the below-40 temperatures, $1 hot dogs (yum), and long, long, long drive home...it was worth it. (Except for the part where we parked and the guy next to us let go of his door and it slammed into the side of our van with a loud "WHACK" - Yeah, that wasn't a good start to the whole evening!)

Happy Earth Day?

2008-04-22T16:44:00.000-05:00

This is how a 7 year old celebrates Earth Day.....

Dissect an apple that your mother approved for an after school snack....(make sure and leave it all over the counter, too!)

Retrieve a Taco John's container out of the trash, (clean out the rocks and concrete chips your brother had stored in it), fill it about 1/16th full of water, and place the seeds from the afore-mentioned surgical procedure in the container

And, last but certainly not least, follow up with a good whine at your mom for ten minutes about how we HAVE to plant a tree for Earth Day. It's what we're SUPPOSED to do.
Who came up with this rule?!?
Oh well, Happy Earth Day to you!

Lincoln...

2008-04-21T11:55:00.000-05:00

I have a ton of pictures to post.....so, I won't bore you with explanations of each. Here's a rundown of our weekend in Lincoln.....We drove there...went to the Husker Spring game....swam (until we saw someone had had an accident in the pool - yuck!)....we ate at a cajun restaurant (and tried Fried Alligator...which Aidan LOVED!)....ate brunch with my mom's family that lives in Nebraska....and then we drove home. Lots of fun, lots of laughing, and now we're spending the day at home recuperating. Enjoy!

Round 2!

2008-04-09T15:57:00.000-05:00

If you were wondering, today is 10 days since Aidan's first chicken pox showed up. And, also if you were wondering, the incubation period is 10-14 days for chicken pox. And, just on the tiny chance you were wondering if Darby would get the chicken pox..........

I'd post pictures, but I'm not in to making a pedophile's day. And, since she's got them EVERYWHERE except for her back - where a picture might be appropriate - we'll save those for a scrapbook!

So, apparently, the new chicken pox vaccination just allows them to get little "spurts" (or, as the pediatrician calls them - "breakthrough") of chicken pox for years and years and years. This is Darby's 3rd round. Yeah!

Sneak Preview.......

2008-04-03T21:20:00.000-05:00

Getting ready to go on stage.

Cheer #1

Cheer #2

I wasn't sure if they were going to top the dolphin origami kid, or even the kindergarteners who completely FROZE during "These Boots Were Made For Walking" (way too cute) but they did so well! We'll see how solid they are when the audience is full.......

They made up every bit of what they did and worked on it during all of their recess time the last few weeks. I made the t-shirts (courtesy of the Dollar Tree and Hobby Lobby iron-on transfers 30% off - I think we spent $20 - who doesn't love a good bargain!?). I'll put more pics up after the big performance tomorrow night!!

On The Mend...........

2008-04-03T15:49:00.000-05:00

We're moving along.......Aidan is doing better at times. He's really struggled with the pain and is just now slowly starting to eat again. There's a flu'ish bug in our house and I think he may have a touch of it, on top of recovering from surgery, on top of chicken pox, so that doesn't help at all. But, we're getting there!
Darby and I have to be at one of the elementary schools in our district tonight for dress rehearsals for her Talent Show tomorrow night. She and 5 other girls made up some cheers and will be performing them for everyone tomorrow. If you're in town and can make it, it's at Whitson Elementary on 17th Street at 7 p.m. I've heard there's even someone playing the air guitar - now THAT'S talent! :) I will try and get pictures tonight and tomorrow and post them.........

Confirmed..........

2008-03-31T11:31:00.000-05:00

We went up to the daycare center to have our trusty teacher (now daycare director)/friend Megan check out Aidan's back and indeed, he does have chicken pox. I called the pediatrician to make sure we were/weren't doing everything that needed to be done. I struggled when I made the decision to vaccinate my kiddos against the chicken pox. But, apparently, we made the right decision. (Not to mention, now you HAVE to have it to go to school.) This could be so much worse if he hadn't been vaccinated because as we all know, chicken pox (the full-fledged version) can, and usually will, spread to the mouth. So, the timing on this could have ended up being a really big deal. I'm so thankful that it isn't. We'll just keep truckin' on!

Look What Came to Our House!

2008-03-30T20:35:00.000-05:00

I know the picture isn't very clear (dumb camera) but if you look real close, you can see about 10 little red guys who look suspiciously like chicken pox. Figures. This kiddo can't catch a break! His sugery recovery has gone really well (aside from the nights full of choking and gagging on what I assume is drainage - yuck & Friday's vomiting marathon). He's doing great with the pain and after lots of cajoling he'll rest for us. But, today he started running a fever and a few hours later the little red spots started showing up. Hopefully, he'll have the same experience Darby had - about 10-15 spots that go away quickly. That would be thanks to the vaccine they give kids these days. By the way, whatever you do, DON'T google chicken pox images. At least wait until your stomach can handle what pops up! :)

Surgery

2008-03-27T16:23:00.000-05:00

Hi all, we're home! Aidan's tonsils and adenoids came out at 8 o'clock this morning. Everything went super. The surgeon said his adenoids were huge and he was really glad to get them out of there! We had to be at the hospital at 6:30 this morning. I really feel very tested with this getting up early thing. I'm not sure how I did it when I had a REAL job.
They gave him some tylenol with versed this morning before they took him. I think he told me about 8 times "They gived me that medicine. It makes me goofy." And, then
he'd shoot us the goofiest little grin! Too bad they can't give us some of that to bring home, too!
He did great waking up and when they got him up to pediatrics he was all ready for popsicles and the play room. We stayed for about 3 hours and then came home. I think all of the medication they gave him in the operating room started to wear off because as soon as we pulled up in front of the house he started crying and jumped out of the van to puke. Purple popsicle isn't so pretty coming back up!
We took a good nap and now he's enjoying round two of popsicles. Hopefully, by tomorrow we'll graduate to ice cream and pudding. He's really hungry and liquid diets don't cut it!
This really sweet lady came in while we were in the room and gave Aidan a blanket she had made. She told him that she's just a grandma who loves making blankets for little kids who have to stay in the hospital. I thought it was so kind and Aidan really loved the blanket she gave him - plus, he got to bring it home. Nikki, I think I found your next hobby!! :)

Does This Make My Arm Look Fat?.....and Random Pics

2008-03-23T20:01:00.000-05:00

So, I baked last week. We took dinner to our friends who's baby just got home from the hospital and I baked their older children some chocolate chip cookies. I was talking on the phone and pulled the pan out and got the inside of my arm. Well, I have some ointment here that has an antibiotic and numbing stuff in it and so I immediately put it on. As the last few days went on, the red around the actual wound kept getting bigger and my arm swelled up to the point where I couldn't even bend my elbow. So, I assumed I was having some sort of allergic reaction to the ointment and started taking Benadryl and coating it with hydrocortisone cream. After church this morning, and several urges to "have a doctor look at that", I finally had my mom take me to an urgent care place and sent Scott and the kids off to hunt Easter eggs. Apparently, when you put ointment on a burn, it seals the heat in and creates a burn under the skin, which can then get infected. And, since my luck happens to be the way that it is......all of the above happened to me. I have a 9 inch by 9 inch "wound" all on the inside of my arm and am now taking oral and external antibiotics. Moral of this story? Don't bake and talk on the phone at the same time. (And, according to the doctor, when you get a burn - the only thing you should ever put on it is human urine. Yep, I said it, pee on yourself. Um, no thank you, I'll stick with cold water.) So, I have to wear the above pictured "dressing" until I go back and see the doctor on Wednesday. And, of course I didn't get pics of the kids in their cute Easter outfits, so you'll have to settle for the ones below!

This is where I found Miss Darby "napping" a few weeks ago when she was not feeling well. And, in the middle of the living room, none the less!

First soccer game of the season. It was 40 degrees with 40 mile an hour winds. Good thing we love him enough to sit out there. And, good thing they don't keep score, it wouldn't have been worth it! :)

Results!

2008-03-21T11:38:00.001-05:00

No sooner did I post that last entry and the doctor's office called. They did see seizure activity, which we weren't super surprised, as she's had symptoms. It's in the same place that it was 3 years ago, so that's actually positive - the same type of epilepsy. It's much better than it was 3 years ago, even though it's still there, so that means that it's being semi-controlled with the medication. Her doctor is switching her to a different type of medication and we have an appointment in 3 months to see how it's working. Unfortunately, the regular nurse was out sick and so it was a "float" nurse that called with the results, which means every question I had - she couldn't answer. I'm not sure why you'd have a float nurse call with important test results, but, whatever. They will call me next week to answer questions and give us directions on switching medications, which apparently, is a process in itself. Darby's doctor apparently said that we may be able to use the medication for 6 months and then talk about taking her off. Again, the nurse couldn't answer why he would think that, so I'll save that question for when a real nurse calls me. Obviously, we're disappointed that the seizure activity was even there, but the positives really outweigh the negatives, so we'll focus on those. So, we'll just pray that the transition between medications goes smoothly and that they don't make us do any more sleep deprived EEGs any time soon! Thanks so much for all of your prayers and support! Dealing with all of this is so much easier with all of the love that we have from our family and friends!

Spring Break

2008-03-21T09:36:00.000-05:00

So, if you've seen "Enchanted", read on. If you haven't, why havent't you?! Go see "Enchanted" and come back. This is the first movie I've actually gone out and purchased, we love it so much. So, we watched it last night for, I think, the fourth time. I just asked the kids, this morning, to please pick up their rooms and gave them their time frame for doing so. Went to the kitchen to retrieve my coffee and a book and hear both children singing "Ahhhhh, Ahhhhhh, Ahhhhhhhhhh!" Which, if you'll remember is what Giselle does when she's calling for all of the "forest" animals to come help her clean the apartment. My kids'll try anything to get help cleaning their rooms! :)

We've had a good week, although busy. It's been good practice for this summer. If you didn't know, I let the church know that once Darby is done with school in May, I'm done working. I'm going to stay home with the kids this summer and then when Aidan starts kindergarten in the fall, I'll go back and finish school. It should work out that if I go Tues - Thurs during the day while they are in school, I should be done in about 5 months. So, hopefully by the end of the year! After that, I have no clue what I'll do. I hope to stay home and be PTA President, well, maybe just a classroom helper. Someday, we'd like to build a house and put a shop in it. But, I'm not quite ready to work full-time again, yet. These last two years have really shown me how much I enjoy being home with my kids and available whenever they need me. Which, lately, is a lot of the time!

Just so you know, in the middle of all of these other things, we found out last week that Aidan has to have his adenoids out. While they are in there, they're going to go ahead and take his tonsils, too. His adenoids are massive and so he's very "obstructed" and sounds like he's snoring even when he's awake. They're going to do the surgery next Thursday. He's been having obvious trouble sleeping at night and so we're hoping this will (pardon the pun) "clear" things up. Darby had to have it done when she was three and it made a huge difference in the quality of sleep she was getting - which in turn helped the quality of mood during the day! If you'll keep him in your prayers, I would really appreciate it. He's older than she was and understands more about it - which makes him way more apprehensive about it. We're going this afternoon for his pre-anesthesia appointment and they'll give him a little tour and explain everything to him, which I hope will help!

We still haven't heard the results of the EEG, yet. I will post as soon as we do!

4 A.M. Is For The Birds!

2008-03-18T17:38:00.000-05:00

We had Darby's EEG today. You know, the sleep-deprived one? The deliriously, over-exhasted and brain fried one? I can now tell you that Best Buy is open until 9 p.m., the bowling alleys close somewhere around 9 (I love when you walk in and it's 8:30 and they tell you can bowl for 45 more minutes - uh, no thanks), Sonic although open all hours of the night closes it's carhop service at some point before 10, and Barnes & Noble, oh glorious Barnes & Noble, is open until 11. It's hard to find things to do until midnight, with a minor, on St. Patricks day, but, we survived. I thought getting up at 4 this morning would go over as well as 5-year-old shots, but with some coaxing and a warm bath waiting, it went very smoothly. Thankfully, Scott's dad's restaurant opens at 6 a.m., so we were able to go there this morning and hang out and have breakfast. We also bribed her with a trip to Wal-mart and one free toy. So, after 2 HOURS of walking around looking at everything at 7 a.m., she settled on a Hannah Montana play set (on sale, even!)

The whole test thing went really, really well. Darby laid very still and was cooperative with the tech. I wondered how she'd do being so tired, but she did great! She fell asleep very quickly and at one point we were supposed to wake her but keep her eyes closed. Yeah, right. We will hopefully know by the end of this week what, if anything, it showed.

So, needless to say we are all on our way to bed in a few minutes. Thankfully, it's Spring Break and I'm home with the kids all week. Maybe we'll recover over the next few days!

By the way, thank you Aunt Nikki for the phone call this morning! The look on her face was priceless! :)

What Do You Think?

2008-03-15T16:24:00.000-05:00

MyHeritage: Look-alike Meter - Geneology - Black and white photographs

MyHeritage: Look-alike Meter - Yad Vashem research - Family history

How About These?

2008-03-15T15:59:00.000-05:00

This is TOO Funny!

2008-03-15T15:53:00.000-05:00

I Just Wanted to Share This...........

2008-03-09T14:47:00.000-05:00

(I can't figure out how to link it, so copy and paste it in the top and click on the video to watch!)

http://www.ozville.org/epilepsy/

We Are Diseased

2008-03-04T18:23:00.000-06:00

If you happen to be in the neighborhood, don't stop by! Or, at least, don't take a shower here. Don't wear my shoes, or Scott's, and now you'll have to keep your tootsies out of Aidan's. He asked Scott last night "Daddy what's this on my foot?" Yep, my baby has a baby Plantar's Wart. Yeesh! You'd think Comet, Bleach, Clorox Bathroom Cleaner WITH Bleach, and I have to admit even Easy-Off Oven Cleaner (it was suggested - I figured what the heck?) would have killed this nasty junk off of our shower floor. But, hey, we're nice, we share. The doctor told us that since he's completely FREAKED OUT after accompanying me to all of my appointments, we can treat it at home. Whew! I thought I was going to have to hog-tie him to get him near a podiatrist's office! So, if you visit, we really would like it.....and, we won't be offended if you don't take your shoes off, or your coat, or a surgical mask. I promise!

You Get What You Ask For......

2008-03-03T18:59:00.000-06:00

If you look at the "Title" of my last post and then read this, it will make a lot of sense!
We went to the brain doctor (as Darby likes to call him) today. Now, I've told you all before how weird (in a goofy kind of way) he is. Well, I've actually forgotten how compassionate and sensitive to Scott's and my beliefs/feelings he is. You all know that Darby started an anticonvulsant in December last year. We've had really good luck in the fact that she's been seizure free, but also migraine free. She had been having some migraines that really knocked her on her hiney and they were starting to happen more frequently. So, that's really exciting but she's picked up two of the side effects that we're not crazy about - weight gain and irritability. We are really watching her with food (trying really hard not to be obvious about it and turn it into a complex - remember I'm already setting my children up for much-needed therapy when they are adults) but the irritability is almost more than we can handle. She's a girl and she's moody, but this is almost like everybody/thing gets on her nerves ALL of the time. We are looking into another medication that could possibly get rid of some of these side effects. (Am I the only one who didn't know that they treat epilepsy and bipolar with all of the same medications?) The yucky news is that Darby may be having a different type of seizures now. When she wakes up in the morning or after a nap the right side of her face is fallen (almost like a stroke). It usually takes less than a half an hour for it to get back to normal. It's not happening all of the time but she was sick this weekend and it was a lot more noticable. She's also having some twitching on the right side of her mouth - another type of seizure. This totally sucks. So, we're going on the 18th to have an EEG done (a study on how the brain of a 7 year old works- ha!). It's a sleep deprived EEG which means that the night before she will go to bed at midnight and we have to wake her up at 4 a.m. and keep her awake until her appointment at 1 that afternoon. She can't even fall asleep in the car on the way there or they may have to reschedule it. And she's not allowed any caffeine so we can't even cheat! I'm collecting ideas on what to do with a 7 year old at 4 o'clock in the morning that will keep her moving. I've started the list with hanging out at anything that starts with "Wal" and is open 24 hours. Who isn't in the mood for shopping at that time of the morning!?!? :)
*Warning: I'm about to get emotional* I was sitting in his office reading some of the literature about epilepsy and I don't think I've ever really sat down and absorbed that Darby is an epileptic. It sucks. To think about the things she may not ever get to do - riding certain rides at amusement parks, attend concerts with strobe lights without having to cover her eyes, all the way to the fact that because of the law - she may not be allowed to drive. I pray so hard that she'll be one of the lucky ones who really does outgrow this. I pray that this next test will go well and that they won't find any new abnormalities. I pray that she remembers her childhood as fun and laughter and not medications and MRI's. I know it could be much worse and I know that compared to the things other people are going through, this may seem like nothing. But, if I could change it for her, I would. Please pray for strength and wisdom for Scott and I as we walk this path. We really, really want to do the right thing for her and some days it feels like we're just not qualified enough.

I'd Like to See a Study on How the 7 Year Old Brain Works

2008-02-25T10:48:00.001-06:00

As I was telling my mom this story this morning, she said "Why do I get the feeling this is turning into a blog post?" She's right, it's too funny not to share....
We had to have a serious conversation with Darby last night over dinner. A lot of valid points were raised during our discussion but, I really feel like the matter is settled as of now.
Darby informed us that she wants to join the circus. (We got 3 free tickets last week and so I sent Scott and the kids for some Daddy-bonding time.) Apparently, the allure of the circus was just too much for Darby and she has found her calling. We educated her on all of the pitfalls of joining the circus; lots of road travel, no school, always practicing and performing, you know - the specifics. She told us that she's okay with all of that. She can jump off of things "real good" and besides, she WOULD look "really cute in those outfits." I thought we may be fighting a no-win situation and we'd have to send our daughter off to join the circus. Hey, don't they get paid for that? We COULD use the extra income.
Anyhow, we knew our logical explanations started to sink in when she asked me about going to the bathroom while traveling, you know, would they stop if she needed to go? I told her that probably they would have scheduled bathroom breaks and she would only be able to go when they stopped at those times. She didn't really like the idea of that so much. So, we made a mutual decision that since she's 7 - Mom and Dad would make all of the life-altering decisions for her and that once she's an adult we'll revisit the issue and she can make a decision at that point. I can't wait to revisit this issue like, say, when she's 20 and sitting here with her boyfriend.

A (Not-so) Funny Thing Happened on the Way Home

2008-02-22T13:33:00.000-06:00

To all of my (10) faithful blog fans, I have to apologize. You, who have faithfully checked in on our little life have been let down day after day after day. There is a purpose to my madness and I can finally explain......
I try to be very careful what I put out here, what with all of the bad guys running around these days. Not that I think bad guys really have time to sit down and read a blog to figure these things out, but I'm the girl who sleeps with a cell phone in case a bad guy cuts the phone lines in an attempt to get into my humble abode. So, I'm a little bit of wimp - I'm okay with that.
Scott has been out of town for the last 4 weeks. Yep, 4 weeks. He's been in the booming town of Phillipsburg, Kansas. It's about 4 and a half hours north and west of here. He's faithfully traveled before the sun rises every Monday morning and trekked home every Friday afternoon (on top of putting in full days at the office in Topeka on Saturdays.) He's worn out, I'm worn out, and our kids have separation issues now. This really is nothing new to our life, but it is a hardship and I learn a lot about myself during these times. 2 years ago Terri (Scott's mom) arrived to find all three of us on the couch crying. She kicked me out; fed, bathed and put my kiddos to bed (and had my house picked up) by the time I got back. You know what I did? Sat in a grocery store parking lot. In peace and quiet. Some days you need that and I wasn't strong enough to admit that at that time I really, really needed that. The kids really are very well adjusted and for the most part handle these times very well, but this week especially, they've totally freaked out if I have to leave their sides for even a second. Does this mean I'm responsible for their therapy when they are older?
Last Friday Scott was traveling with 2 of his co-workers along I-70 without realizing that a 21 year old man from Fort Riley (a military guy, nonetheless) had robbed a bank in Topeka and taken the cops on a wild chase down I-70, crashed his car, jumped out of the car and shot at officers and then ran into the woods. This created a major speed bump on the interstate and forced Scott and others to navigate small highways the rest of the way home. It took them 4 hours to get 30 miles. So, what normally takes them 4 and a half hours took almost 9 to get home. The man who created this disaster actually ended up shooting himself in the head and died this week.
There have been stumbling blocks in the last month. We've gotten through them, not without a TON of patience and wisdom and strength, but we made it. So, if you've been blessed by my silence, I'm sorry. If you've missed me, you're in luck. As we readjust our family life, I'll have more time to take pictures, to tell you funny stories, or to bore you with my thoughts! Thanks for sticking in there with us!

A Five Year Old's Prayer.......

2008-02-19T18:31:00.000-06:00

Aidan knelt down by the bed last night and prayed the following........."Dear God, Thank you for making the world and the things in my room. Thank you for mommy's boots so I can play cowboy. Thank you for my mommy and my daddy, even when they're mean. And, thank you for letting me bug my sister all the time. Amen"

Where have I gone wrong?

Rah, Rah, Rah!!

2008-02-11T13:38:00.001-06:00

I went into Darby's room to put a couple of things away and found this. I love how even the Bitty Twin Boy (Collin, I think his name is?) is in the splits. This child has too much time on her hands.

For Every Action.......

2008-02-02T21:18:00.000-06:00

......there's a reaction! Darby started new medication last night and this morning woke up to thighs swollen to twice their normal size and softball size welt-looking spots (hives?) and her entire lower half of her body was covered in a rash. I called the pediatrician's office to confirm that this was an allergic reaction and made sure I knew what to do for it. So, we loaded up on Benedryl and I told her that she had to take a bath. I told her I was sorry that it was going to have to be a little bit chilly to get the swelling down.............she looked at me HORRIFIED and said "You're making me take a bath in CHILI?!?!?" I love her.

So far, no more rash, no more hives, and no more chili-baths! :)

Teenage Angst

2008-02-01T13:36:00.001-06:00

Aidan and I went to McDonalds today for lunch. He's totally obsessed with their "fishburgers" (filet-o-fish) and they advertise the heck out of them during lent season. So, I rewarded him for his great behavior this morning while I was super busy trying to get things done.
School must have been out for one of the districts because the place was FULL of kids from Aidan's age to high school. While we were eating I noticed these 3 teenage girls talking SERIOUSLY around a small table - and I mean SERIOUSLY. I watched them (to keep my vision averted from my 5 year old horking down seafood between a bun slathered in tartar sauce - blech!!) The girls were obviously dealing with something MAJOR! and I was hit with memories of MY high school years and all of the "drama" that seemed to be happening everyday. Isn't it amazing the difference in what's important - what hurts - what the BIG DEAL is when you're 16-17 as opposed to 29 and 50? I imagined that they must have been dealing with some boy or some gossip or some parents - yuck - and I thought "Man, it must be nice to have THOSE issues!" But, when you really think about it, it's just as hurtful, just as important, and just as big of a deal at that time. The only thing that changes is the scenery! So, we finished our "meal" and left and I said a small prayer for those girls that whatever they're dealing with (I hope it's just their parents, just a boy, or just some gossip) they'll get over it quickly, because once they ARE the parents, married to the boy, and STILL dealing with gossip (all the while trying to pay bills and keep a house clean)? Oh, man, it doesn't get much better! :)
Please keep Darby in your prayers right now. We have an appointment at Children's Mercy Hospital in KC on March 10th to check her out. In the middle of all of this we're trying to decide if our neurologist here in Topeka is really a good fit for her and for us or if we should look into the neurology team over at Children's Mercy. Right now, she's great and active and mostly happy (except for when Aidan's in her room). And, we can't ask for much more than that!!

Can You Believe It?

2008-01-28T14:09:00.000-06:00

Finally, a post! We've been very busy, very sick, and very not at home. Scott's schedule continues to be hectic. We are trying to get through it. While others are dreading April 15th, I am so looking forward to it!

Aidan and I ended up getting the flu last week. We spent a lot of time laying in bed and watching Spongebob. But, we're better now!

Emma got a haircut a couple of weeks ago! You can tell by this picture how much she enjoyed it!! I just trimmed her bangs so she doesn't look like a ragamuffin anymore.

Much happier afterwards! :)

I love this picture of the three of them! They enjoy spending time together so much!

I'm off to enjoy the end-of-January/spring day! Aidan and I have been trying to run as many errands as possible today to avoid doing them once the arctic blast comes back in tomorrow. Can you believe it's at least 65 degrees today? I have the windows open! Yeah!

I Know.......

2008-01-14T10:26:00.000-06:00

I've been promising pictures. But, the truth is, I haven't taken any. I'll make a mental note to take some this week. Last week only lasted 2 days (it felt like) and I don't even know where my camera is at this point. And, so, you'll have to learn patience! :)
We are in the planning process for our trip to Dallas over spring break in March to go stay with Aunt Nikki and visit the newly built American Girl Doll store. I've almost had to stop talking about it in front of one particular seven year old, because she's one of those kids that cannot stand waiting for something exciting that she knows about. So, I'm on covert operation to plan the dates and specifics. This is the excitement in my life.
Darby started at the Topeka Civic Theatre Academy last Thursday. She didn't really like soccer so much and so we made her finish the season last fall with the promise that she could choose something different for the spring. Aidan loves soccer, so, we'll still get to be involved - but, he informed us last night that he wants to try out for football too. (Which upon visioning makes me chuckle.) I'm not sure where he got the idea from, but he's determined, now.
So, Darby looked around at some different activities and decided she would like to try the Academy. She LOVED it! It's a 7-week program where they develop the acting, singing, etc. skills and at the end they put on a tiny little performance. But, it's my understanding that she can audition for something after she's completed the class. She finished the 1st class and went straight over to the audition boards and decided she wants to audition for Robin Hood this summer. Since it's over the summer and not during school I'm considering letting her. It's a very big schedule (Wed.-Sun. performances) and so, we're putting A LOT of thought into it. She has, however, only completed 1 class - so we'll see how the remainder goes.
I entered the year that I turn 30 by ordering new glasses last week. I've needed them for a really long time and kept avoiding the issue. During all this time my eyes got a lot worse and so I finally broke down and made the appointment with the eye doctor. The kids are so excited. I am not.

What Have We Been Up To?

2008-01-07T16:59:00.001-06:00

So, we're officially addicted to a movie. It happens in our household.....a lot. But, usually it's 2 little people's addiction. This time, I have to admit that I'm guilty of fanning the fire. The kids have been asking us to rent this movie for a month now and I vetoed it because I, for some reason, thought it was completely inappropriate for children. But, under the influence of pain meds (legally - remember the foot surgery?) I relented and at least read the back of the movie. I guess I wasn't as informed as I thought I was, it's only rated PG. So, Scott and I decided there would be no harm in letting the kiddos watch this movie. Little did we know we'd start an obsession!! So, you're probably asking "What is this amazing movie????"

Yep, Hairspray. I've always been a big fan of musicals. My most favorite birthday present was a couple of years ago when Scott got me tickets to see Wicked while we were in Chicago. I was awed and amazed the entire time. So, Scott, your children and I are now requesting tickets to go see Hairspray. Maybe you can schedule some training in New York? :) Are they still on Broadway? Does anyone know?

Darby loves Hairspray for a whole other reason - see below.......

If you don't know who that is.....it's the one and only Zac Efron. Do crushes really start around 7 years old? At least she has good taste! :)

We are doing really well. Getting ready to go back to school tomorrow. Darby insists she doesn't want to go back. But, I know she'll be glad to be back once she gets there. She's my schedule following kiddo and really does much better when she's on a strict one. She's adjusting really well to the medication. It's showing a few side effects that we're not crazy about, but we'll give it until her March appointment.

Aidan has been back to preschool and so he's not too far out of routine. I got on the USD 501 website to look at the academic calendar so I can get our home calendar squared away and I saw that in April they are having Kindergarten Round-up. I kind of overlooked it and then my heart skipped a beat as I realized that he'll be going to that. My baby is going to kindergarten. It will be a sad, sad day at my house. And, a joyous one as we quit writing that monthly daycare/preschool check!! Wahoo!

Scott started the ominous "busy season" with a bang. So far his schedule has been manageable, but I know in time it will overrun our lives. We'll travel that road when we get there.

My foot is healing slowly but surely. I'm so glad the initial surgery is over with. However, I'm not one for exhibiting much patience, so I'm really, really, really working on that trait.

I'll post some pictures soon!!

Goodbye 2007

2007-12-31T08:37:00.000-06:00

Can you believe it's the last day of this year? My, has it flown by! We've had a lot of changes in our house this year and it's amazing to think about how at the time they seemed so huge. But, now, they are just things of the past.
Christmas came and went with the grand flourish that it is. The kids had a great time (of course.) Lots of traveling over the river and through the snow. It's been awhile since we've actually had white on the ground during Christmas. And I appreciated it for those couple of days. But, now I wish it would just melt away.
Miss Darby acquired a new American Girl doll. (Big surprise, I'm sure.) The way American Girl works is to infiltrate your entire existence. Their catalog comes 4 times a month, I swear. And, they were on Oprah about a month ago. So, that's all we've heard about. It doesn't help that they have a million dolls to choose from and so the list for a need for each one never ends. Julie - the 1970's-era girl came to live with us. She's actually my favorite one - which made it easy for Santa to ponder the idea about bringing her home. The next one on the list is Mia - the girl for 2008. Darby has it all planned out. She's going to save, save, save every penny she gets so that when we go to the new store in Dallas in March she can get her. I have a feeling I'll have to save, save, save as well for this trip. I doubt that when she walks into that store she'll only be able to walk out with a doll. We'll see.
Aidan crossed the bridge into a video system playing kind of kid. Which I swore would never happen, I have to tell you. But, he enjoys it and we actually limit his time playing and most of the time he plays with at least one of us. I just don't want him glued to a control with his face never to leave the screen again.
Thursday I called the new podiatrist to see if there was anything he could do until my surgery in January for my foot. It had gotten to the point where no shoe and/or being shoeless had become quite uncomfortable. They called me back Thursday afternoon and said that they could actually reschedule the surgery for Friday morning. After a quick assessment of our schedule and recruiting grandmas to watch the kiddos....we plowed through the newly fallen 4 inches of snow bright and early Friday morning and got it done and over with. If you ever have laser surgery while awake, I suggest you wear nose plugs. I won't go into details. Just trust me on this one. I have no heel left. I guess that's the point, to just wipe it all clean and get rid of the virus, but it's still disgusting to look at. So, I don't. I'm just glad to have it done and start the healing process. He said that it takes the normal skin cycle process (28 days) to heal enough to walk on, so 25 more to go! Pray that it goes quickly. I don't do well being incapacitated and watching my house move along without me. There are dishes to be done and laundry to be washed. Darby has been a HUGE help. Of course, I'm going to have to retrain her after this period of helplessness that when I call her name it WON'T mean that I need something. It's like an automatic response now, I get the semi-willing face. It's kind of cute actually. She reminds me a lot of me. :)
I hope everyone has had a great 2007 and looks forward to an even better 2008!

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!

2007-12-22T19:23:00.000-06:00

So, this is the scene earlier this afternoon! It snowed, and snowed, and snowed some more! We were getting ready to head to Kansas City (we hadn't checked the weather, obviously.) Once we DID finally check the weather we cancelled our plans and holed up inside.

We baked Jesus' birthday cake. A tradition we've had since Darby decided a couple of years ago that it was a good excuse to have a party and, of course, cake!

And, homemade marshmallow fudge. I AM a chocolate addict (Isn't the first step admitting you have a problem?)

And, homemade Snickerdoodle cookies. Hey, I was on a ROLL! I'm all baked up for a good 4 months, now.

The dishes have to get done somehow!

But, we had to prove our manhood afterwards! (I can't believe how much he looks like Tim in this picture!)

Sugar fix! Happy Birthday Jesus!

Camdyn's here to spend the night. Her mom and dad braved the snow to go to the Cirque Dreams show. We're having lots of fun. She's such a good girl.

8 inches of snow! This is at about 7:00. And, Scott had already shoveled once.

What a good day to stay inside and bake and have a birthday party!

Okay, so.......

2007-12-20T17:47:00.000-06:00

I know I declared a vow of silence, but I had to report that Scott passed his second section of the exam (the Audit section - go figure, it's what he does every day!) We are very proud of him and his diligence in getting these things passed! 2 down, 2 to go!! Wahoo! :)

It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas!

2007-12-19T17:29:00.000-06:00

So, I finally got motivated to wrap some Christmas presents. Have you ever noticed that you spend a good amount of time picking out the paper, the ribbon, the bow, the tag - wrap it just so - make sure the edges are all straight - just so someone can rip it off in .325 seconds? I, especially, am really picky about all of these things and how they're placed under the tree so that it's picture perfect and really, what does it matter? :)

These are normal days at our house - as normal as they can get with two kids, two cats, and a wiener dog. Charlie is adjusting well. Simon and Nory still hate him, but he's really gotten brave and runs after them now. Eventually, he'll probably get an eye scratched out and that will be that!

Aidan went to see the new Alvin and the Chipmunks movie last week and Terri (Scott's mom) bought him the Chipmunk Christmas c.d. because he LOVED the movie. So, I've been listening to nothing but chipmunks the last 2 days. I'm sure you remember the "I still want a huuuuuuuuuuula hoop!" song. It's literally super glued into my brain. I miss the Go Fish Guys. They're at least fun to listen to - if you haven't heard them - you have to go to their website (I have the link on the right side of this page) and listen to the clip of "The Mom Song." They're so fun. Aidan has been really silly this last week. On Sunday we were counting the cars driving in the opposite direction (hey, you do what you have to do to keep them occupied) and Aidan yelled at all of us to "Be Quiet! I'm TRYING to read my mind!" I asked him what exactly he was reading in his mind and he told us that "Right now, I'm trying to read that you'll be quiet counting cars!" And, last night he asked Scott, "Are you thinking what I'm thinking?" Scott said, "I don't know. What are you thinking?" Aidan said "I don't know." Scott said "Well, then, I guess we're thinking the same thing." He's so goofy! :)

Darby is doing well. She's adjusting to life on medication and we really haven't noticed any side effects other than a little sleepiness. We're adjusting to remembering to give her the medicine. I can hardly remember to take medication myself, so this IS a challenge. We'll take it one day at a time, I suppose. She's very excited about winter break, but not nearly as excited as she is about Christmas. My kids have always struggled with how Santa really gets into our house since we don't have a chimney. Dale, our minister, and his wife Marsha gave us the neatest thing last weekend. It's a "Santa Key." It's an actual key that has a Santa "head" on it and you hang it on your front door for Santa to use. I have NEVER seen one of these. Although, I forget how detailed my daughter is and so we've had lots of conversations about only Santa being able to use it and no "buggler's." Now that that's all cleared up, she's thrilled. She checks every day to make sure it's still there.

The next 7 days will probably be pure madness. We have a ton of things going on, so I'll probably be silent for awhile (did you think that could really happen?)

Every year I have really great intentions on sending out Christmas cards, a Christmas Letter, or a Christmas picture. If I'm lucky, I get the cards signed and then they go into the Christmas box for next year's attempt. This year, I didn't even look at them. So, this is my new version of a Christmas card..........

Have a wonderful Christmas!

Hug your family members and tell them how much you love them and appreciate who they are in your life. Which reminds me, you all mean a lot to me! :) Remember the reason we celebrate. And, enjoy every moment of every day of this season!

Love to you all!

Scott, Anne, Darby, and Aidan :)

Ah, Monday at last!

2007-12-17T08:28:00.000-06:00

I have to tell you.......my daughter has an amazing little voice. The kids' Christmas choir at church had their little performance yesterday during both services. Of course, Aidan played with his sleeves and rocked back and forth into the boy next to him and sang maybe every 6th word. Typical. But, Darby had what she called a "solo with Titus." I told her that it's actually a duet since she's singing with another person, but she feels VERY strongly that it was a solo - I pick my battles and this just wasn't worth it.

I have obviously had a rough week and I was feeling very "why me?" yesterday morning and I think at that moment, God decided to touch my heart. During first service it was just Scott and I there (our family all came to the second service) She got up to sing her solo/duet and I could NOT believe the voice that this child has considering her father and I can't carry a tune if our lives depended on it. Of course, it's a 7 year old voice, but several people turned around and looked at us and said "Wow!" Of course Mommy-pride took over and the tears started to well. But, I think at that moment I realized that it's not HER voice, it's her GIFT from God. Just like what He gives me - I can HANDLE things. I can HANDLE what comes at me because it's not based on MY strength, it's based on HIS. If I could let go and know that I am not in control.......EVER......I think I can get through these things. I think that I need to remind myself of that all the time.

My friend, Anne, just posted on one of my favorite verses in the Bible "Be still, and know that I am God." I guess sometimes you like the way something sounds, but if you really dig into it and apply it, it has SO much more meaning than you can understand. I have a really hard time being still. I have a really hard time just knowing that God is God. I am not. I am not in control. I am not the boss. I am not the one who makes things happen. And, I am not the one who picks me up when I feel like I just can't handle anything, anymore, ever. I cannot rely on me anymore. If you like to read, James - our youth minister, gave me a really good book called I Am Not But I Know I AM. It has all of these principles in it. I guess I hadn't really applied what I had read until yesterday.

Sorry, to get into all of that. I guess it's just easier to get these things out there. To just say them. Maybe that makes it more real?

I have to add, that before the services yesterday morning. It was about 7:30 and we were on our way there, so we were all in our "I really didn't want to get up this early" moods. Darby all of a sudden said "Mommy, do you think we could just have me sing and maybe get rid of all of the other kids. I COULD just do the whole thing one big solo." I was hoping she just got up on the wrong side of the bed, but I think I could possibly be raising a future diva. Yeesh.

Love to see you SMILE!

2007-12-14T16:33:00.000-06:00

We're kind of back to normal today. I went in to work at the church and two days of "stuff" really piles up!

My dad is not doing real well, but they've gotten some things figured out. He'll stay in ICU until they can make sure he's more stable. That's really a relief because it means there will be constant watch over him. Pray that he'll recover quickly and strongly.

Darby's neurologist called today. He's such a goofball. But, I guess if you're working with kids' brains all the time you'd have to find an outlet. Apparently, his is being weird. He's very nice and very understanding of my feelings and beliefs, which I really appreciate. He's decided to try Darby on some medication. It's a very mild medication with little to no side effects. The fact that her seizures have changed in presentation and are happening more frequently (we and he are pretty sure she's having them in her sleep more regularly) is a little bit concerning. And, now that she's had one where she's actually lost consciousness it's a lot more frightening. We have to start thinking about leaving her in the bathtub without supervision and playing on jungle gyms, etc. and decide at what level we need to take the chance of her having a seizure into consideration. So, we'll try the medication. He said he won't twist my arm to do it and we'll evaluate her in 2 months to decide if it's working or if she's having any ill side effects. If she is, then, we'll wean her off of it. Pray that it helps and doesn't hinder her. One of the possible side effects is mood changes - I can't imagine what THAT would be like! :)

Well, I'm off to prepare for more winter weather. I've heard we could be looking at 6 - 8 inches of snow. How many more days until summer???

Is This Day Over?

2007-12-13T18:56:00.000-06:00

So, today actually went downhill.....really, really fast! When I got to the hospital this morning, I knew something was up because my dad was having a lot of trouble with his heart rate and blood oxygen levels. The nurses weren't TOO frazzled, but you could tell they were bustling. Amidst all of this my cell phone rang. Scott called me to tell me he was on his way to the school. Darby had a seizure and went unconscious (sp?) and fell and hit her head. They said she had regained consciousness and was doing okay. So, I gave him all of the important numbers (pediatrician, neurologist) and told him I would wait to hear from him once he actually SAW her. (Lord knows the interstate does NOT need a completely frazzled me traveling down it!) The pediatrician said to take her home and keep an eye on her and call the neurologist, so that's what he did. I'm really blessed to have his calmness, because I was totally freaking out! Once I turned back into "the one in control of herself" I hopped in the mini-van and headed home. It felt SO good just to touch her! The nurse from Dr. Katz's office (our neurologist) said there wasn't much we could do. She's a diagnosed epileptic so the next step is for the doctor to decide if he wants to see her or put her on anti-seizure medication (which I've been totally against, and he's supported it - the side effects can be worse than the seizures.) It's now 7:05 p.m. and we haven't heard from him.....of course, it takes on average 6 months to get into him normally, so I'm thinking it will be next week before we know anything.
Okay, so I'm home at this point and snuggling her on the couch and my stepmom calls to tell me that they moved my dad to ICU. They thought he was having a heart attack and may be septic. Talk about being torn.........I checked back with Dr. Katz's nurse and she okayed Darby traveling (she would be at a hospital after all.) So, we packed back up and headed back down there. The surgeon and cardiologist determined it wasn't a heart attack after all, but there is some seriousness with an infection, so they're following a sepsis protocol. He should be out of ICU sometime tomorrow. Thank God.
I think I'll shut my brain off and take a hot bath and wait for tomorrow! :)

UPDATE!

2007-12-12T22:19:00.000-06:00

About 10 minutes after I posted the last entry, we actually ended up losing our power!! So, we bundled up and carried all of the blankets upstairs to sleep together.............while visions of electicity danced in our heads. No such luck. We could hear the branches breaking off of trees and hitting things. Thankfully (kind of) USD 501 had cancelled school because THEY were without power too, so we didn't have to worry about getting anyone to school! But, we DID have to worry about packing (me) and bathing and doing all of our morning "stuff" by candlelight and flashlights. I think the lesson for today was being okay with not being in control. Not freaking out. I think I failed.
Anyhow, I made it to KC and just left the hospital. The surgery went okay. It was actually more difficult than they thought and took over 7 hours. We were there for about 14 hours total. So, I am exhausted - physically and emotionally.
Scott took the kids out to my dads so he could work and they could be warm. Apparently, sometime today our power came back on, which I'm really, really thankful for since some people have been told it could take up to 7-10 days to restore theirs.
I hope to be home tomorrow afternoon, but you know, the Legends shopping center is on my way home. So who knows!?!? :)

2 Days of Updating - Who'd have thought...............

2007-12-11T18:29:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, after I posted I went to get cleaned up. (Yes, I admit, I shower at 2:30 in the afternoon somedays! - That's the rebel side of my life.) Anyway, I noticed - after months of using it - that the foundation I've been using says, and I quote, "Reduces Signs of Fatigue" WHAT?!?!? If you look really closely and pretend that my camera is of better quality you can see it right below the red circle! I'm thinking about sending it in to get my money back because I'm pretty sure that it's NOT WORKING! :)

When I went to pick Darby up from school I had planned a little "surprise" for the kids. So, I tell them that we're going to a super neat place. Of course, they both (in unison - I might add) yell "Chuck E. Cheese!!!!!" Now, why is it that EVERYTIME I have something cool planned it gets ruined because whatever I've thought up is NEVER as exciting as Chuck E. Cheese? I, for one, am an avid hater of Chuck E. Cheese. I'd rather stick a fork in my eye than spend an hour in that place! I do have to admit that every once in awhile, I relent. (And, so has my mom - if you haven't seen the poem on that one - request it - you WILL laugh!) So, onto my project - we have a really cute little scrapbooking store not far from our house. I frequent the place around birthday time because they have the cutest stuff and even though it costs 337 times as much to make birthday party invitations as opposed to just buying them, I LOVE doing it. (Remind me that I said this while I'm grumbling over how time consuming and stupid this idea is as I'm working on them!) We went and picked out some cute Christmas paper........

And after an arduous 15 minutes chalk-full of glue sticks and patterned scissors........ (little red t.v. is a portable, battery operated t.v., radio, and flashlight in one - hey, I'm prepared for ice storms!!)

We have paper chains to decorate our rooms with! (Note, my doofus son - he's pretty proud of the chain that Mommy cut, and glued, and put together - that's his!) And, he's without glasses because for the one millionth time they're broken. The people at the optical place know us by first name. Good thing those babies have a great warranty! The project went well, by my standards, and the children were only a hair below the Chuck E. Cheese satisfication level.

Darby came to me yesterday and said "Mom, I have a question." I've learned that when I'm being prepared for a question, it's immediate cause for heart palpatations and a lump lodges itself in my throat! She says "Did I get born............(insert my wide eyes and lack of breathing at what's to come).......on my birthday?" Whew! Isn't it amazing that the things that we know, that we take for granted, are legitimate causes of concern for a 1st grader?!? I assured her that she WAS born on her birthday and that she didn't get born, she was born. Remember, one of my career choices was to be an English teacher? Yeah, me neither. But, it's a pet peeve of mine!

If you think about it, please pray for our family for the next two days. My dad is having a pretty serious operation in KC and I'm traveling there (by myself - which is worth praying for in it's own right) amidst all of the treacherous road conditions. Scott will be with the kids (again - much praying requested on this one.) I expect to be there for the next few days and hopefully home by Friday, if all goes well. I'm super nervous about leaving the care of my family in Scott's hands......namely, the lack of control that I will have over running the household!

I'm sure he'll do fine - I think...........

'Tis the Season.........

2007-12-10T13:01:00.000-06:00

I'm FINALLY catching my breath from the last two weeks and posting. (Warning: many pictures following!)

Scott's schedule has been hectic (as usual) and so the kids and I have (barely) survived the past few weeks. My wedding ring broke. And we even had the bonus of passing the stomach flu around our house in the middle! I've been researching sayings, bible verses, etc. to paint in our dining room and I'm leaning strongly toward "Whatever Doesn't Kill You Will Make You Stronger." :)

I found out last week that I have to have a second surgery on my foot in January. In October I had a plantar's wart "removed" from my foot. I've been fighting this stupid thing for about 9 months and my podiatrist had decided to "excise the tissue." Well, excise the tissue must be latin for "lots of pain for nothing". The dumb thing came right back. So, in a few weeks I'm going to ANOTHER podiatrist to have it removed AGAIN with a laser. Apparently, THAT will kill it? If you have any good suggestions on how to get around in winter weather with a surgery shoe and crutches, please feel free to share! (P.S. when you notice something on your heel that doesn't go away and continues to spread - don't wait until it's massive to see a doctor about it! Buy some Compound-W and duct tape and get rid of it - FAST!)

On to the good stuff:

Darby and I went to an awesome little Christmas party/gift exchange last weekend with a group of girls that Darby's known since she was 2. These girls all went to First Christian together and have developed a tight little bond. It's amazing to see that even though we've all moved on to different schools once these girls are together they're immediately best buds again. Darby had a great time. And, luckily their moms are fun to hang out with too! :)

Say hello to the newest member of our family. Little Charlie Brown came to live with us a week ago. He's a miniature dachshund and the kids' Christmas gift from Goose and Gandar (Scott's grandparents) and Uncle Jon. He's a lot of fun and a LOT of work. We are crate training him and housebreaking him and he's doing really well. Darby loves to dress him up and the sad thing is I think he likes it, too! (See below...........)

(Nikki - do your super-sewing abilities include doggie dresses, also!?!? :)

We, of course, had to have a visit from Emma. She actually let me put little pigtails in her hair. I think they look so cute! This picture is of her telling me "NO!" That's her favorite word these days and apparently the only response she knows when you ask her a question!

And, finally, throughout this season of shopping, Christmas parties, decorating, baking, etc., etc., etc. let us not forget the season of Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving is not the season of bows and presents and trees and presents and commercials for more presents, I know - but it's so overlooked in our rush to get to the sales at 5 a.m. and all the other crazy things we do to get ready for one day of Chaos/Christmas (at least at my house.) And, so, I'm trying, daily, to stop and remember Thanksgiving....so.......I'm beyond thankful for my family. My babies and my husband. My parents and beyond. My friends - they're family too! I AM thankful for our hectic life (even when I complain about it) because it reminds me that I HAVE a life and I'm thankful that I can still get up each day to face it. I'm thankful for the people who read this blog, because I know it means that you care! And, as silly as it sounds, I'm also thankful for little things like my camera because it's a way that I can chronicle all of these things and days and moments so that someday (I can't believe I'm going to say this....) when I'm OLD and can't do the things I do everyday......I can look back on all of these things and be THANKFUL! :)

All She Wants for Christmas.................

2007-11-27T12:46:00.001-06:00

As we walked into Aidan's preschool this morning, we ran into Beth (the director of the preschool and friend of ours.) Beth asked Darby how many teeth she's lost so far. Darby showed her the one she's been working on for the last few weeks and Beth asked if she could pull it. Apparently, Beth is the tooth-pulling expert because within a nano-second she had that sucker out! (Darby and Andrew worked on it for an hour solid the other night - complete with anbesol and lots of bleeding - and no such luck.)

Looks like the tooth fairy will be visiting tonight.......if I remember...........the last 2 teeth have earned us the "Bad Parent of the Day" award since we forgot and woke up to a dissapointed little person. (Thank goodness, the "I think the tooth fairy was busy......go check now........I'm sure she came by this morning!" worked, or we'd be in big trouble!) :)

...................if only her two front teeth were ALL she wanted for Christmas!!!

This is how you babysit Emma.......

2007-11-24T10:17:00.001-06:00

Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving! We're 2 down, 1 to go. By this evening I won't want turkey for another year! The kids are, at this moment, playing outside in the 1/4 inch of snow we got this morning. (Which means mini-snow/leafmen!)

We had Emma yesterday. It was tons of fun. She's a little under the weather - so she wasn't in the greatest of moods, but we made the best of it!

High School Musical Karaoke kept our feet movin'!

A snack always helps! Emma knows where the snack cupboard is in our house and we made several trips to check out the contents!

And, if all else fails.........................

This'll contain her! :)

WAHOO!!

2007-11-21T08:19:00.000-06:00

Congratulations Mr. Martin!!

(Scott passed the F.A.R. section of the C.P.A.!!!!)

1 down, 3 to go! :)

Phone Directories, Gingerbread House, and a Biker Bar

2007-11-16T15:51:00.000-06:00

Do you know what 7 year olds do when the new school phone directory comes out? They call each other..........A LOT! I think my phone rang 14 and a half times yesterday between 3:45 and 5:30 (when all of the parents got home and restricted their children's phone use.) I even got a whispered "Is Darby there?" from a cell phone. Someone pilfered their mom's cell and placed a secret phone call from the closet. Yeesh!
Darby's class went on a field trip to TPAC today to make gingerbread houses. This is her creation. I've heard "Can I eat it?" 237 times in the 20 minutes she's been home. I've set the "Wait 'till your father gets home" rule. I'm fairly certain I just caught her licking a candy corn..........

Aidan always goes with me on Friday mornings to church to work (since it's a short day.) He usually packs a bag of toys, movies, etc. to keep him occupied and then follows Dale and James around instead. Today he was actually playing cars on my desk while I worked. I heard the usual "Vroom, vroom" and a conversation about going inside. I asked him where the cars were and he nonchalantly replied "A biker bar." Keeping my calm, I asked what it is that cars actually DO at biker bars and I got this..........."Mostly they just walk inside and turn around to leave so they can go race again." Whew!!!

I question Aidan's "imagination" all of the time until Scott reminded me last night that I've convinced him that my "night job" is a ninja and I have to be to work on time and that's why HE needs to get to bed on time. Aidan wanted to see my moves last night but I told him that the Head Ninja doesn't allow me to share them. He said "Or else he'll have to kill me?" I'm breeding geniuses here!

I Baked....................

2007-11-15T16:08:00.000-06:00

.............from scratch!

I'm well aware that my level of domestication lies somewhere between a can of Spaghetti-O's and store bought birthday cake (Hey, I make sure to have them add the "Happy Birthday so-and-so"!!). Although, every couple of months I feel that urge to become a proper housewife and attempt a feat of homemade something-or-other. This time it was "Melt In Your Mouth Mint Chocolate Sugar Cookies." So far, there haven't been any reported cases of food poisoning. Which is fabulous - I really didn't want to go to prison for murder by baking. It's pitiful when you overhear your 7 year old's conversation on the phone go something like this....."Yes, she really, really BAKED the cookies! She didn't go to the store and buy one of those container things and CALL them cookies. She actually GOT THE INGREDIENTS OUT OF THE CUPBOARD AND MIXED IT ALL TOGETHER TO MAKE THE COOKIES!" WOW - I DO still have the ability to impress my kids! Chalk one up for Supermom! :)

Pennies From Heaven.....

2007-11-13T16:59:00.000-06:00

Most of you know that when I was 15 one of my very dear friends, Bridget, was killed in a car wreck. I miss her terribly and mostly whenever my kids do something really funny because I know how much she would have appreciated such antics. I've regaled many a story about our crazy days running around with Bridget (of course with some discretion!!) to Darby and Aidan and they love to ask questions about her. Darby has asked to go to her gravesite several times over the last year and I've debated about her maturity and whether she could handle and understand the meaning of visiting there. Yesterday, after the zoo, I really felt in my heart that it would be a good time to take them there, since it's right next door. We got out of the van and went to the headstone while I explained (as simply as I could) the process of burial and that your body is there but your spirit/soul is not. Darby gets it. Aidan - not so much.

Some of you are aware of the penny thing. (Everytime we visit the grave - we leave a penny.) Anne D., you'll have to remind me exactly why we do this. In my old age I've forgotten. That's really sad.

I grabbed 3 pennies and handed them out. We each placed a penny on the headstone and talked about the importance of driving safely and wearing our seatbelts and following the law. I got really emotional and started to cry. I don't really know why - maybe because of all of the lost opportunities for my kids to have gotten to know her. I don't know. Anyway, Darby looked at me and said she had another penny in her pocket that she was saving for her bank, could she please put that one on the headstone as well. (If you know Darby and money - this is a HUGE shocker!!) I told her that was fine and that I appreciated her thoughtfulness.

We trekked back to the van and when I opened Darby's door she gasped - there on her seat was a bright, shiny new penny waiting for her! She was so thrilled. She said "Mom, do you think Bridget the Angel left it for me?" I told her "Darby, I think God gave it to you as a reward for your heartfelt gesture and the thoughtfulness that you showed today!" Which prompted a discussion about HOW God could have left it there. Darby decided God made the whole world and trees so He could probably do just about anything. Aidan decided that God is always there - and as he says "looking at you" (you think I've used this phrase as creative correction!?!?)

However it happened, I know one thing, my children just witnessed the first of many miracles and blessings of a Father who loves us SO much! As a mother - I think I have a fairly good handle on how that feels!

Monday, Monday..........................

2007-11-13T10:17:00.001-06:00

Darby was out of school yesterday so we were looking for something to do and I suddenly remembered that I had bought a zoo pass earlier this summer. We thought it would be fun to go (even though we had to bundle up.) But, I was worried that since all schools were out it would be really busy. Little did I know!

We only saw 2 other people there the whole time. We had time to read the signs and watch the animals and didn't have to worry about moving out of anyone's way. It was so awesome. I loved all of the questions the kids asked!

The animals were so interactive and playful. Aidan was pawing at this black leopard and the cat was pawing back! We were all giggling so much! Sometimes, I complain that our zoo stinks (especially compared to the grand one in Omaha.) But, I've never really had time to explore ours like we did yesterday. I think I'll change my tune.................

Weekend Fun

2007-11-12T17:03:00.000-06:00

Wow! What a weekend!

We went and saw my cousin Andrea's daughter, Blake, cheer at "Jamfest" on Saturday. They did such a good job.....and even placed. (Although it was so loud and crazy I couldn't tell in what category or which place!!)

Saturday night Scott and I went to his firm's annual party, so we got to dress up. It was so much fun! Darby and Aidan stayed at Nan and Papa's and Darby went with Aunt Cortni to go see High School Musical at Topeka High School. They didn't see Zac Efron! Darby was disappointed about that, and I'm sure Cort was too! :)

Sunday, Aunt Nikki and Uncle Richard came for a visit. Darby has been looking forward to this visit, as it meant new clothes for Elizabeth and Nicki and her whole array of american girl dolls. Nikki's either going to have to retire at making doll clothes or hire a factory since we're now up to 5 dolls......and counting!

We finished with choir practice/bible study and a family night watching Spiderman 3. (Thanks Uncle Jay - we'll get that back to you soon!)

Hope everyone had a good weekend as well! :)

Just another Thursday night!

2007-11-08T21:46:00.000-06:00

Homework's always more fun when it involves Halloween candy and counting to make a graph!!

Emma and Darby at Grandma Keri's. Thanks for the homemade potato soup and Chef Boyardee Ravioli! :)

From Darby...................

2007-11-08T16:25:00.000-06:00

This is me and my cousin kailee we are in Arkansas we love each other.

I didn't have time at lunch, but I wanted to add this....

2007-11-08T16:21:00.000-06:00

Emma Jean

Jelly Bean

The "Cheesiest" Girl

I've ever seen!

(Emma says cheese when you try to take a picture, now! It comes out looking like this!)

Halloween Pic

2007-11-08T12:38:00.000-06:00

Where Darby got the idea for a 50's girl? I have no clue.

P.S. Darth Vader(sp?) would not keep his mask on. Defeats the purpose of a costume, I think.

Some Aidan Funnies.......

2007-11-07T19:02:00.000-06:00

On Friday, I was putting the slides up in the sanctuary for Sunday's church service. Aidan is sitting next to me on the pew while I'm working on the computer and picks up the microphone sitting next to us. He stands up and says "Dis one's for aaalllllllll de ladies out dere.........Jesus loves me dis I know......." and breaks into full Wayne Newton-esque song.

We're coming home from exchanging curtain rods and my hands are full and I ask Aidan if he can please get the door for me. He said "Sure, dat's what best friends are FOR."

And, finally, Scott and I are talking (dreaming) about new cars and which one we'd want if we could choose. Aidan says "Excuse me, Mom, but the driver doesn't pick the car. The car picks the driver."...........If you've ever seen Transformers, you'll know where this comes from.

Okay, I'm going to try this.................

2007-11-06T22:12:00.000-06:00

Darby and I are going to try and keep this updated. We'll see........................