If you are an Aggie and a Catholic and living in the Austin area, keep on reading.
Join us for an Aggie Catholic get together after the 5pm Mass at St. William in Round Rock on Saturday, August 6. We're having BBQ (donations appreciated) and you can bring a dessert, side or veggie to share. Fr. Dean Wilhelm has graciously offered to host! The dinner will be in the parish hall.
If you can join us, shoot me an email: kathryn(underscore)whitaker(at)hotmail(dot)com.
Whoop!
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Happy Baptismal Anniversary ALG!
Six years ago today, we baptized a mighty special lady in the house, Anna-Laura. Oh happy day. We love you pretty girl.
A big shout out to her amazing Godparents, Fr. David Konderla and Lynne Neiers. Both of you inspire us in so many ways and it is a true honor to have you as a permanent part of our family.
A big shout out to her amazing Godparents, Fr. David Konderla and Lynne Neiers. Both of you inspire us in so many ways and it is a true honor to have you as a permanent part of our family.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Here we go...again
Just as Scott and the boys pulled out of the driveway to head north for Scott's 20-year high school reunion, I felt Luke's forehead. Hot.
"Wave bye to Daddy," I whispered, praying that it was just low-grade and perhaps a result of teething. But my heart knew better. By 11am, his fever had jumped to 101. I called the pediatrican's office and asked them to fax over orders for a chest x-ray. They told me to make an appointment and, if necessary, the pediatrician could write the order after our visit.
Uh...no. I politely asked the nurse to ask Dr. E if she could go ahead and send over the order so we could have the x-rays in hand before the visit. An hour later I got a call that they had been faxed over.
Rule #1 in being your child's advocate. Never discount your gut. And rule #2, don't placate the mom. I knew what he had, I just needed a doctor to confirm it and write the scrip.
Later this afternoon, after getting the x-rays, we headed to the pedi's office and...
Luke now has pneumonia.
D***
Oh, and the even more fun part? Most of the drugs you give to treat it he's either A) allergic to or B) will have major gut issues because they are so harsh. Outstanding.
After several minutes of serious discussion with Dr. E, we opted to give him a less potent antibiotic to see if it will do the trick. If he's still having high fevers and not keeping fluids down by Sunday, I'm to take him directly to Dell.
{sigh}
Please, please, please take a few moments to pray for Master Luke. I am so hopeful that these meds will alleviate his symptoms and we can get him on the mend without any major side effects or a trip to my most unfavorite place in the world.
"Wave bye to Daddy," I whispered, praying that it was just low-grade and perhaps a result of teething. But my heart knew better. By 11am, his fever had jumped to 101. I called the pediatrican's office and asked them to fax over orders for a chest x-ray. They told me to make an appointment and, if necessary, the pediatrician could write the order after our visit.
Uh...no. I politely asked the nurse to ask Dr. E if she could go ahead and send over the order so we could have the x-rays in hand before the visit. An hour later I got a call that they had been faxed over.
Rule #1 in being your child's advocate. Never discount your gut. And rule #2, don't placate the mom. I knew what he had, I just needed a doctor to confirm it and write the scrip.
Later this afternoon, after getting the x-rays, we headed to the pedi's office and...
Luke now has pneumonia.
D***
Oh, and the even more fun part? Most of the drugs you give to treat it he's either A) allergic to or B) will have major gut issues because they are so harsh. Outstanding.
After several minutes of serious discussion with Dr. E, we opted to give him a less potent antibiotic to see if it will do the trick. If he's still having high fevers and not keeping fluids down by Sunday, I'm to take him directly to Dell.
{sigh}
Please, please, please take a few moments to pray for Master Luke. I am so hopeful that these meds will alleviate his symptoms and we can get him on the mend without any major side effects or a trip to my most unfavorite place in the world.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Luke Update 7.28.11
A couple of weeks ago, before the sickness crazy hit our house, Luke had a big doctor visit with his nephrologist (kidney doc), an ultrasound and some bloodwork. In case you don't remember, Luke's kidneys are on the small side (like everything else with him!) and one is pelvic. In other words, instead of being where it should be, it sits right in the middle of his pelvis. Contact sports are a no-go for him.
The ultrasound showed that both kidneys are growing and his pelvic kidney (the right one) is actually in the 50th percentile for size. The left one is still puny, but growing. What all that means is that he's got pretty good kidney function and both are contributing, rather than one doing all the work. Dr. Simon gave us the one-year pass. If it was legal and socially acceptable I just might've kissed him.
For now, Luke will go back in a year, repeat bloodwork and the ultrasound. In the meantime, we will pray that both kidneys continue to grow. I'm hopeful that we can keep up the annual visits. Those are quite nice and a wonderful change from the every three and six months. The true test of kidney growth will come during puberty, but that's a ways off, right? I'm trying hard not to let all the uncertainties with these major organs get the better of me. Some days are better than others.
May I present Master Luke and the amazing Dr. Simon?
I really like Dr. Simon (the kidney man) for many reasons. 1) He is super funny and very chatty, 2) he is a Florida Gator, and 3) he always does a great pep talk and says things like, "Luke, dude, you look good!" or "Whoa man, look at you go."
Austin has some mighty fine pediatric specialists. I mean, I would know, I've practically met them all!!
The second and third parts of this update will come in about a month after we visit with Luke's geneticist. Technically, she brings our specialist count up to 8, but she's a short-timer. I hope. The other doctor on tap in a few weeks is the famous Dr. George, the neurosurgeon. 'Tis the season for annual specialist visits :)
The ultrasound showed that both kidneys are growing and his pelvic kidney (the right one) is actually in the 50th percentile for size. The left one is still puny, but growing. What all that means is that he's got pretty good kidney function and both are contributing, rather than one doing all the work. Dr. Simon gave us the one-year pass. If it was legal and socially acceptable I just might've kissed him.
For now, Luke will go back in a year, repeat bloodwork and the ultrasound. In the meantime, we will pray that both kidneys continue to grow. I'm hopeful that we can keep up the annual visits. Those are quite nice and a wonderful change from the every three and six months. The true test of kidney growth will come during puberty, but that's a ways off, right? I'm trying hard not to let all the uncertainties with these major organs get the better of me. Some days are better than others.
May I present Master Luke and the amazing Dr. Simon?
Dr. Simon just happens to married to the "other" Dr. Simon, as in the neonatologist who discharged Luke from the NICU. Love. Them. Both. And, oh my, is Luke a peanut here or what??
I really like Dr. Simon (the kidney man) for many reasons. 1) He is super funny and very chatty, 2) he is a Florida Gator, and 3) he always does a great pep talk and says things like, "Luke, dude, you look good!" or "Whoa man, look at you go."
Austin has some mighty fine pediatric specialists. I mean, I would know, I've practically met them all!!
The second and third parts of this update will come in about a month after we visit with Luke's geneticist. Technically, she brings our specialist count up to 8, but she's a short-timer. I hope. The other doctor on tap in a few weeks is the famous Dr. George, the neurosurgeon. 'Tis the season for annual specialist visits :)
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Top Ten: 15 Years!!
Scott and are celebrating a big anniversary today - FIFTEEN YEARS! When I think back to how little we knew then, how much we've learned and how much we'll know in another 15 years, I am humbled. Every morning, I see those beautiful blue eyes and feel grateful. I am thankful that Scott has a job he loves, that he cares for his family, that he cleans toilets, barbecues, cooks and rarely complains. Mostly, I am giving praise that the man I married is one of the most faithful people I know. Without a doubt, he is my rock. I've seen just how much so in the last two years. I don't take our moments together for granted. Life is fragile.
Thank you, God, for giving me such a wonderfully, irreplaceable, loving, handsome gift. I thought it might be fun to think back over these last 15 years with a bit of nostalgia. Today you get a top 15 in honor of our big day. Enjoy.
TOP FIFTEEN: I DO!
1 Miscarriage. In September 2004, I miscarried sweet Mary Grace. It was then I think our marriage took on deeper meaning. Up until then, we were just blissfully happy and then reality hit. It happens to all of us. I'm just thankful we took the experience and fell more in love, rather than falling out of it.
2 Apartments. When we first married, we moved into a sweet little abode in Ames, Iowa, when we began graduate school. You could stand in one place and see the entire apartment! Two years later, we got "real" jobs, moved to Carmel, Indiana, and called another apartment home. We were able to save up for our first house (totally exciting). Wow. So much has changed since then.
3 States we've lived in: Iowa, Indiana and Texas.
4 Trips to Italy (2000, 2002, 2003 and 2009). We were excited to venture to Italy in 2000 and 2002 on a pilgrimage with our youth group from church. In 2003, we went back for a business trip and in 2009, it was totally pleasure. I've said it before...Italy, a lifetime is not long enough.
5 Kids. I think you might know these people. We chuckled when we looked through the 'ol wedding album and saw that we answered the "How many children to you plan on having" question with "more than two..."
6 Cars (Ford Probe, Chevy Trucks - 2, Chevy Malibus - 2, Honda Accord, Honda Odyssey). Gee, I guess we have been good customers at home and abroad :)
7 Parishes we've been members of (St. Thomas Aquinas and St. Cecilia - Ames, IA; Our Lady of Mt. Carmel - Carmel, IN; St. John Vianney - Round Rock, TX; St. Elizabeth - Pflugerville, TX; St. Theresa and St. Vincent de Paul - Austin, TX) Wow, we get around.
8 Elfa closets from the Container Store installed. Should you need assistance, provide Scott with a six-pack of beer and consider your closet installed.
9 Anniversary trips out-of-state (South Dakota, Tennessee, Ohio, California, Florida, Indiana, New York, Arkansas, New Mexico). These totally make my year. Five of them have been "out of country" and I'm just not telling you yet where we're going this year!
10 Years as a fundraiser. Scott is so darn good at asking people for money. I'm pretty good at spending it.
11 Years of pre-school. Wow. Now that number just makes me feel old.
12 Place settings of nice china that's still unbroken. Amazing, no?
13 ER visits (John Paul is 6 of those, just in case you were wondering.)
14 Times we've seen the Pope. Twelve of them Pope John Paul 2 and two of Pope Benedict 16.
15 Years of love, laughter, faith and family. I love you sweetheart.
Thank you, God, for giving me such a wonderfully, irreplaceable, loving, handsome gift. I thought it might be fun to think back over these last 15 years with a bit of nostalgia. Today you get a top 15 in honor of our big day. Enjoy.
TOP FIFTEEN: I DO!
1 Miscarriage. In September 2004, I miscarried sweet Mary Grace. It was then I think our marriage took on deeper meaning. Up until then, we were just blissfully happy and then reality hit. It happens to all of us. I'm just thankful we took the experience and fell more in love, rather than falling out of it.
2 Apartments. When we first married, we moved into a sweet little abode in Ames, Iowa, when we began graduate school. You could stand in one place and see the entire apartment! Two years later, we got "real" jobs, moved to Carmel, Indiana, and called another apartment home. We were able to save up for our first house (totally exciting). Wow. So much has changed since then.
3 States we've lived in: Iowa, Indiana and Texas.
4 Trips to Italy (2000, 2002, 2003 and 2009). We were excited to venture to Italy in 2000 and 2002 on a pilgrimage with our youth group from church. In 2003, we went back for a business trip and in 2009, it was totally pleasure. I've said it before...Italy, a lifetime is not long enough.
5 Kids. I think you might know these people. We chuckled when we looked through the 'ol wedding album and saw that we answered the "How many children to you plan on having" question with "more than two..."
6 Cars (Ford Probe, Chevy Trucks - 2, Chevy Malibus - 2, Honda Accord, Honda Odyssey). Gee, I guess we have been good customers at home and abroad :)
7 Parishes we've been members of (St. Thomas Aquinas and St. Cecilia - Ames, IA; Our Lady of Mt. Carmel - Carmel, IN; St. John Vianney - Round Rock, TX; St. Elizabeth - Pflugerville, TX; St. Theresa and St. Vincent de Paul - Austin, TX) Wow, we get around.
8 Elfa closets from the Container Store installed. Should you need assistance, provide Scott with a six-pack of beer and consider your closet installed.
9 Anniversary trips out-of-state (South Dakota, Tennessee, Ohio, California, Florida, Indiana, New York, Arkansas, New Mexico). These totally make my year. Five of them have been "out of country" and I'm just not telling you yet where we're going this year!
10 Years as a fundraiser. Scott is so darn good at asking people for money. I'm pretty good at spending it.
11 Years of pre-school. Wow. Now that number just makes me feel old.
12 Place settings of nice china that's still unbroken. Amazing, no?
13 ER visits (John Paul is 6 of those, just in case you were wondering.)
14 Times we've seen the Pope. Twelve of them Pope John Paul 2 and two of Pope Benedict 16.
15 Years of love, laughter, faith and family. I love you sweetheart.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Sit Rep: Sickopalypse 2011
For my military-loving friends, here's our Sit Rep (Situation Report):
Clare, did in fact, have the chicken pox. She scratched the area so badly it became a staph infection. ACTION: Taking bleach baths every night x3, bleaching the tub afterward, along with her bed, toys and towels and on antibiotics for seven days.
Will and John Paul had a nasty strain of bacterial pneumonia. ACTION: On antibiotics for 10 days and we're watching them like hawks to make sure they COVER THEIR MOUTHS when they cough.
Anna-Laura got the worst of it. Her bacterial pneumonia turned into all-out pneumonia. ACTION: Her first round of antibiotics was still resulting in horrific fevers (103 and above), so in addition to her 10-day treatment, she also had a shot of antibiotics last night. If that doesn't work, it's off to the hospital we go. We head back to the doctor in the AM to get the verdict.
By no small miracle, Luke is still well and doing beautifully in therapy.
Scott and I are sortof on the verge of losing our sanity. But other than that minor detail, Dr Pepper and the gym are keeping us off the ledge. I really should've just posted a one word description of life here the last couple of weeks: Seriously???!!
Clare, did in fact, have the chicken pox. She scratched the area so badly it became a staph infection. ACTION: Taking bleach baths every night x3, bleaching the tub afterward, along with her bed, toys and towels and on antibiotics for seven days.
Will and John Paul had a nasty strain of bacterial pneumonia. ACTION: On antibiotics for 10 days and we're watching them like hawks to make sure they COVER THEIR MOUTHS when they cough.
Anna-Laura got the worst of it. Her bacterial pneumonia turned into all-out pneumonia. ACTION: Her first round of antibiotics was still resulting in horrific fevers (103 and above), so in addition to her 10-day treatment, she also had a shot of antibiotics last night. If that doesn't work, it's off to the hospital we go. We head back to the doctor in the AM to get the verdict.
By no small miracle, Luke is still well and doing beautifully in therapy.
Scott and I are sortof on the verge of losing our sanity. But other than that minor detail, Dr Pepper and the gym are keeping us off the ledge. I really should've just posted a one word description of life here the last couple of weeks: Seriously???!!
Monday, July 18, 2011
Monday blues
We are suffering from a ridiculous amount of sickness over here. Anna-Laura has bacterial pneumonia (oh joy) and I'm taking the boys BACK in tomorrow morning for coughs and fevers. Nine days and a doctor visit and it's still not getting better. Clare has an infected bug bite which I think the doctor is going to have to lance (double joy).
Prayers appreciated :)
Today's HDYDI is...not very well!
Prayers appreciated :)
Today's HDYDI is...not very well!
Saturday, July 16, 2011
So, I did this thing...
I may be opinionated, but I don't usually call the radio and let 'er loose. On Friday afternoon, I did just that.
You see, a sweet friend called and told me there was quite an animated discussion about Harry Potter on our local Catholic radio here in town. It was a national show, but broadcast on our local affiliate. At first, I was like, "Oh, I'll tune in and see what they're saying." I figured there would be equal play and I was curious as to how the discussion was going. After a few minutes, I'll be honest. I was horrified at what they were saying. And I quote...
"The Harry Potter series is an invitation to sin."
"After reading Harry Potter, droves of young people are delving into the occult, researching real witchcraft and wizadry and turning to Wicca."
"Parents would be ill-advised and irresponsible to let their children not just read the series, but watch the movies."
"Harry Potter is not Christ-like, he is evil and JK Rowling has woven a fascinating tale of evil."
Hold up there, skippy.
You know how you get all trembly because you are so frustrated and are trying to arrange your thoughts in an articulate manner? That was me. I dialed and after hearing my counter-argument, they patched me right through. I'm guessing I was either 1) good for ratings or 2) a poor soul they could beat up on, or 3) both.
"So, Kathryn from Austin, tell us your thoughts on the Harry Potter series."
And I did. Hopefully eloquently. I mentioned that the series uses magic as a conduit, but that the real issue at hand is the point of the book: good vs. evil and love vs. hate. End of story. How Scott and I've seen it as an invitation to talk with Will about evil in the world and how to confront it, battle it and ultimately be a disciple of Christ. And, how we look forward to reading the books and watching the movies with all five of our children.
That did it. That's when the priest said parents were being led astray and five years down the road my kids would most likely be on a path to championing the occult cause.
For the love. I wanted to respond, but they cut me off.
Let's shoot straight, shall we? Our job as parents is to provide experiences for our children to learn. To catch them when they screw up (and they will) and lead them to make good choices. We should show them how to constantly ask themselves, "Is what I'm doing glorifying God or glorifying the Devil." For every parent, that is a constant struggle. No one choice is the right choice for every family, for every child, for every situation.
I'm reminded of my own misgivings. I am a Christian, but I have missed the mark so many times. Yet, somehow, the learning experiences, the guidance of my parents and ultimately the grace of God has allowed me to decipher right from wrong, good versus evil. But sometimes I have to be wrong and experience evil before I get to right and good.
There was the time in high school when my then-boyfriend was home from college. He picked me up for a date and before things got rolling he asked if I wanted to smoke a joint. Um...NO. Take me home. Date over. Never talked since. Clearly, I made a bad choice in going out with him, but by the grace of God I got out of that car.
In college, during my time as a 4-H camp program staff, Scott came up to visit. While he was getting ready in the bathroom, I turned on the TV, fell asleep on the bed and then was summoned to the director's office. The TV was mistaken for "inappropriate behavior" and I nearly lost my scholarship. That's when I learned the harsh lesson of "perception is reality" no matter how jacked up it may be.
As a mom, I could write my own book series of my missteps. But let's not go there.
Point being? I'm hearing a lot of talk about how evil Harry Potter is...from people who have never read the series or watched the movies. From what they've heard on the radio, Googled or perceived the series to be.
That sure sounds a lot like what non-Christians say about Christianity.
If you've read the series you've seen the beauty in Harry's final sacrifice. You've learned to fall in love with his friendship - true and pure - with Ron and Hermoine. You've seen how Voldemort's way (complete with his pesky SERPENT) never works no matter how hard he tries. You read about the magic, but it is the relationships that keep you hooked. It is the love that makes you believe good can win. And it does. I say, don't be so quick to judge until you've read it for yourself.
We set firm boundaries for our children and set our standards high - real high. But, keeping your kids in the bubble, sheltering them from the secular world is not the way Team Whitaker rolls. How blessed are Scott and I that we get to have these discussions with Will while he's still living in our house. We get to help form the conscience, shape the character. In eight short years, those lessons will be cemented. Our day-to-day job as parents will have ceased. What kind of a young adult will we have created? One who shies away from everything that doesn't conform to his thinking? Or, one who meets people where they are and shines as a Christ-like example? I hope the latter. I'm praying for it.
You see, a sweet friend called and told me there was quite an animated discussion about Harry Potter on our local Catholic radio here in town. It was a national show, but broadcast on our local affiliate. At first, I was like, "Oh, I'll tune in and see what they're saying." I figured there would be equal play and I was curious as to how the discussion was going. After a few minutes, I'll be honest. I was horrified at what they were saying. And I quote...
"The Harry Potter series is an invitation to sin."
"After reading Harry Potter, droves of young people are delving into the occult, researching real witchcraft and wizadry and turning to Wicca."
"Parents would be ill-advised and irresponsible to let their children not just read the series, but watch the movies."
"Harry Potter is not Christ-like, he is evil and JK Rowling has woven a fascinating tale of evil."
Hold up there, skippy.
You know how you get all trembly because you are so frustrated and are trying to arrange your thoughts in an articulate manner? That was me. I dialed and after hearing my counter-argument, they patched me right through. I'm guessing I was either 1) good for ratings or 2) a poor soul they could beat up on, or 3) both.
"So, Kathryn from Austin, tell us your thoughts on the Harry Potter series."
And I did. Hopefully eloquently. I mentioned that the series uses magic as a conduit, but that the real issue at hand is the point of the book: good vs. evil and love vs. hate. End of story. How Scott and I've seen it as an invitation to talk with Will about evil in the world and how to confront it, battle it and ultimately be a disciple of Christ. And, how we look forward to reading the books and watching the movies with all five of our children.
That did it. That's when the priest said parents were being led astray and five years down the road my kids would most likely be on a path to championing the occult cause.
For the love. I wanted to respond, but they cut me off.
Let's shoot straight, shall we? Our job as parents is to provide experiences for our children to learn. To catch them when they screw up (and they will) and lead them to make good choices. We should show them how to constantly ask themselves, "Is what I'm doing glorifying God or glorifying the Devil." For every parent, that is a constant struggle. No one choice is the right choice for every family, for every child, for every situation.
I'm reminded of my own misgivings. I am a Christian, but I have missed the mark so many times. Yet, somehow, the learning experiences, the guidance of my parents and ultimately the grace of God has allowed me to decipher right from wrong, good versus evil. But sometimes I have to be wrong and experience evil before I get to right and good.
There was the time in high school when my then-boyfriend was home from college. He picked me up for a date and before things got rolling he asked if I wanted to smoke a joint. Um...NO. Take me home. Date over. Never talked since. Clearly, I made a bad choice in going out with him, but by the grace of God I got out of that car.
In college, during my time as a 4-H camp program staff, Scott came up to visit. While he was getting ready in the bathroom, I turned on the TV, fell asleep on the bed and then was summoned to the director's office. The TV was mistaken for "inappropriate behavior" and I nearly lost my scholarship. That's when I learned the harsh lesson of "perception is reality" no matter how jacked up it may be.
As a mom, I could write my own book series of my missteps. But let's not go there.
Point being? I'm hearing a lot of talk about how evil Harry Potter is...from people who have never read the series or watched the movies. From what they've heard on the radio, Googled or perceived the series to be.
That sure sounds a lot like what non-Christians say about Christianity.
If you've read the series you've seen the beauty in Harry's final sacrifice. You've learned to fall in love with his friendship - true and pure - with Ron and Hermoine. You've seen how Voldemort's way (complete with his pesky SERPENT) never works no matter how hard he tries. You read about the magic, but it is the relationships that keep you hooked. It is the love that makes you believe good can win. And it does. I say, don't be so quick to judge until you've read it for yourself.
We set firm boundaries for our children and set our standards high - real high. But, keeping your kids in the bubble, sheltering them from the secular world is not the way Team Whitaker rolls. How blessed are Scott and I that we get to have these discussions with Will while he's still living in our house. We get to help form the conscience, shape the character. In eight short years, those lessons will be cemented. Our day-to-day job as parents will have ceased. What kind of a young adult will we have created? One who shies away from everything that doesn't conform to his thinking? Or, one who meets people where they are and shines as a Christ-like example? I hope the latter. I'm praying for it.
Friday, July 15, 2011
QOTW: July 15, 2011
"Mom! Mom!"
Master Luke finally busted out with the word I've been praying for all of 21 months. Then, he followed it up with about a dozen kisses. I did tear up, for the record. Now, when I ask him, "What's my name?" He proudly says, "MOM," with a big smile. That makes two of us, buddy.
"I hope I make it to the eighth grade."
John Paul. Where does he come up with this stuff?
"Do you ever wonder if I'm going to stop talking?"
John Paul, again.
"I have lots of things to say, don't I Mom?"
John Paul. Yes, son, you do.
"So, we'll see you in a year."
Luke's nephrologist. Love that man. I'll have a full update with pictures next week!
"Being sick sure does stink."
Will. Who then so kindly shared his icks with John Paul and Anna-Laura. They've all had fevers and hacking coughs. The doc says it's just a virus. And that the incubation period is 7-10 days. Awe-some. We told Will if we had to, we'd leave him at home while we went to HP. Kidding, only kidding. Maybe. It looks like he's on the mend, though, so we're in the clear.
"12 more hours!!!!"
Scott. I think he's more excited than Will and I combined about seeing Harry Potter tonight. It should be lots of fun.
We have a little cinema, a little home improvement, a little decluttering and a little family time on tap these next few days. Make it a great weekend!
Master Luke finally busted out with the word I've been praying for all of 21 months. Then, he followed it up with about a dozen kisses. I did tear up, for the record. Now, when I ask him, "What's my name?" He proudly says, "MOM," with a big smile. That makes two of us, buddy.
"I hope I make it to the eighth grade."
John Paul. Where does he come up with this stuff?
"Do you ever wonder if I'm going to stop talking?"
John Paul, again.
"I have lots of things to say, don't I Mom?"
John Paul. Yes, son, you do.
"So, we'll see you in a year."
Luke's nephrologist. Love that man. I'll have a full update with pictures next week!
"Being sick sure does stink."
Will. Who then so kindly shared his icks with John Paul and Anna-Laura. They've all had fevers and hacking coughs. The doc says it's just a virus. And that the incubation period is 7-10 days. Awe-some. We told Will if we had to, we'd leave him at home while we went to HP. Kidding, only kidding. Maybe. It looks like he's on the mend, though, so we're in the clear.
"12 more hours!!!!"
Scott. I think he's more excited than Will and I combined about seeing Harry Potter tonight. It should be lots of fun.
We have a little cinema, a little home improvement, a little decluttering and a little family time on tap these next few days. Make it a great weekend!
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Top Ten: Harry Potter, I Heart You!
{This was supposed to post yesterday. Blogger. Sigh.}
If you follow me on Twitter or are my friend on FB, it comes as no surprise as to how much I love all things Harry Potter. I have my ten-year-old to thank for that love.
When Will was in second grade, we finally caved and let him read book one. It wasn't because we thought there was anything sinister about the series, it's just that Will is a very advanced reader. Our challenge has always been finding age appropriate material at his reading level. But, after doing a little research and reading the first few chapters, Scott and I gave him the green light. He's never looked back. He read the entire seven-book series FIVE times. As is the rule in our house, he had to read the books before he watched the movies.
{Disclaimer: I don't think I need to say "spoiler alert", but should I inadvertently let something slip, please forgive me.}
Admittedly, the first four books are mostly innocent, not too scary, reading. In book five, the series turns a little darker (as do the movies) and we didn't allow Will to watch those movies until just this year. And, certainly, none of our other children have read or watched any HP just yet. As long as we feel they're mature enough, we'll let them all begin the series in second grade.
Honestly, I just can't say enough good things about the world of Harry Potter. Let me share the love, shall I?
TOP TEN: THINGS I LOVE ABOUT HARRY POTTER
1. It is a classic tale of good vs. evil, love vs. hate. There have been many an intellectual conversation we've had with Will as we discect the series.
2. It is superbly written. I'm all for a good plot, but one that has outstanding character development and solid and believable story lines is a winner in my book. Bravo, JK Rowling. Bravo.
3. Hermoine, one of Harry's best friends, is such a great role model for my girls. I look forward to reading the book with them and seeing it through a girl's eyes. That should be loads of fun.
4. For the record, I was right all along about Snape. If you haven't read the series, I'll just let that statement stand on its own.
5. It is one of those series that defines a childhood, in a good way. Rarely does a series come along that captures so much of what we try to teach our children. When I originally heard "witches and wizards" I started thinking "Wicked Witch of the West" from "The Wizard of Oz". Yeah, this is nothing like that. No crooked noses and warts (well maybe a wart or two), but I never dreamed there would be the folly between twins Fred and George, the love of Ron's mom, the bond between Sirius and Harry, the innocence of Luna, the admiration of Dumbledore or the selflessness of Neville.
6. I love how everytime I re-read a book, I read something new. I swear JK slips in new things when I'm not looking. Scott and Will swear it's because I read too fast. If memory serves me correctly, I read the entire series in a little under two weeks. Benefit of waiting until all the books are out!
7. It breaks my heart to think that Harry never really knew his parents, especially his mom. When I think of my own children and my relationship with them I am reminded of what a unique bond that is. Yet, as Neville so beautifully says, "May those that died live within our hearts." It is this piece of the story that reminds me sometimes life is not perfect, yet it's still worth living.
8. If my 17-year-old EVER runs away from home to save the world, I will cut off his toes. But, it's totally okay that Harry, Hermoine and Ron do it. They have wands, for goodness sake!
9. I love that the last book made me cry. By nature, not a big crier over things like TV commercials, E.T. or touching documentaries. I'm touched, but I rarely shed a tear over that stuff. Perhaps it was because I really felt like I'd come to know the characters. That last book got me. I'm going to be a hot mess at tomorrow's movie. Better take some kleenex.
10. I think it's darn near awesome we've been able to see two of the movies in the theatre with Will...yet, it makes me sad that we don't get to do that with the others. Guess we'll just have to crank the BluRay, pop some popcorn and do the best we can at home!
Raise your wand to literature greatness!
If you follow me on Twitter or are my friend on FB, it comes as no surprise as to how much I love all things Harry Potter. I have my ten-year-old to thank for that love.
When Will was in second grade, we finally caved and let him read book one. It wasn't because we thought there was anything sinister about the series, it's just that Will is a very advanced reader. Our challenge has always been finding age appropriate material at his reading level. But, after doing a little research and reading the first few chapters, Scott and I gave him the green light. He's never looked back. He read the entire seven-book series FIVE times. As is the rule in our house, he had to read the books before he watched the movies.
{Disclaimer: I don't think I need to say "spoiler alert", but should I inadvertently let something slip, please forgive me.}
Will, Halloween 2010
Admittedly, the first four books are mostly innocent, not too scary, reading. In book five, the series turns a little darker (as do the movies) and we didn't allow Will to watch those movies until just this year. And, certainly, none of our other children have read or watched any HP just yet. As long as we feel they're mature enough, we'll let them all begin the series in second grade.
Honestly, I just can't say enough good things about the world of Harry Potter. Let me share the love, shall I?
TOP TEN: THINGS I LOVE ABOUT HARRY POTTER
1. It is a classic tale of good vs. evil, love vs. hate. There have been many an intellectual conversation we've had with Will as we discect the series.
2. It is superbly written. I'm all for a good plot, but one that has outstanding character development and solid and believable story lines is a winner in my book. Bravo, JK Rowling. Bravo.
3. Hermoine, one of Harry's best friends, is such a great role model for my girls. I look forward to reading the book with them and seeing it through a girl's eyes. That should be loads of fun.
4. For the record, I was right all along about Snape. If you haven't read the series, I'll just let that statement stand on its own.
5. It is one of those series that defines a childhood, in a good way. Rarely does a series come along that captures so much of what we try to teach our children. When I originally heard "witches and wizards" I started thinking "Wicked Witch of the West" from "The Wizard of Oz". Yeah, this is nothing like that. No crooked noses and warts (well maybe a wart or two), but I never dreamed there would be the folly between twins Fred and George, the love of Ron's mom, the bond between Sirius and Harry, the innocence of Luna, the admiration of Dumbledore or the selflessness of Neville.
6. I love how everytime I re-read a book, I read something new. I swear JK slips in new things when I'm not looking. Scott and Will swear it's because I read too fast. If memory serves me correctly, I read the entire series in a little under two weeks. Benefit of waiting until all the books are out!
7. It breaks my heart to think that Harry never really knew his parents, especially his mom. When I think of my own children and my relationship with them I am reminded of what a unique bond that is. Yet, as Neville so beautifully says, "May those that died live within our hearts." It is this piece of the story that reminds me sometimes life is not perfect, yet it's still worth living.
8. If my 17-year-old EVER runs away from home to save the world, I will cut off his toes. But, it's totally okay that Harry, Hermoine and Ron do it. They have wands, for goodness sake!
9. I love that the last book made me cry. By nature, not a big crier over things like TV commercials, E.T. or touching documentaries. I'm touched, but I rarely shed a tear over that stuff. Perhaps it was because I really felt like I'd come to know the characters. That last book got me. I'm going to be a hot mess at tomorrow's movie. Better take some kleenex.
10. I think it's darn near awesome we've been able to see two of the movies in the theatre with Will...yet, it makes me sad that we don't get to do that with the others. Guess we'll just have to crank the BluRay, pop some popcorn and do the best we can at home!
Raise your wand to literature greatness!
DEEP
Each spring, our kids take the private school equivalent of the TAKS standardized tests - the ITBS (Iowa Test of Basic Skills). If your child scores above the 95% overall, they are invited to participate in a summer program for children who are gifted and talented.
Back in Dumas during my elementary school days, I think that consisted of flower arranging and a here's how to count to 10 in French! We were extremely proud of Will for making such high marks and qualifying for the three-week camp.
They had 47 courses in which to choose (wow!) and Will's top choices ended up making the cut. We didn't give him any limits, we just told him to choose what he loved. I suppose we could've told him to only choose science or math courses, but as providence would have it, Will's courses were quite well rounded and included a little history, a little math and a little art.
For three weeks, he studied Greek Mythology, Young Architects and DEEP Memories. For camp first-timers, he also enjoyed a "Perspectives" class which focused on how people learn. He loved every class. On Fridays, they were able to participate in four different "mini-classes". His included Fundamentals of Sport, It Matters, Mystery Class and Watercolor Techniques.
"Thank goodness I didn't get Jewelry Making, Mom. No offense," he added.
"None taken, my dear. Just remember, your uncle owns his own jewelry business and designs beautiful pieces. There's nothing unmanly about that," I replied.
Honestly, I think there was a three-way tie for his classes. But, if I had to declare a winner, I'd say Young Architects. In the class, they designed their "Dream House," calculated the square footage and the price for flooring, molding and other construction components. Once designed, they drew it to scale and then calculated its current market value. At just over $400,000, and complete with a pizziera, basketball court and ice cream parlor, Will's house would be ANY person's dream. Outstanding job, buddy.
In Greek Mythology, he was thrilled to have his former Texas history teacher. He was already totally into the Percy Jackson series, so this class was right up his alley. But, it did remind me I need to brush up on my Greek gods and goddesses :) Persephone is why we have seasons, right?!
DEEP Memories was probably the most meaningful and heartfelt choice. The students were asked to scrapbook something of importance...Will chose his 10-year-old trip to D.C. and then presented the book to Scott as a surprise for Father's Day. What a big heart. And, the book was so well done!
He's already excited about going back next summer (this spring's scores qualified him again) and we are extremely proud of his growing imagination, love of learning and happy spirit.
Back in Dumas during my elementary school days, I think that consisted of flower arranging and a here's how to count to 10 in French! We were extremely proud of Will for making such high marks and qualifying for the three-week camp.
They had 47 courses in which to choose (wow!) and Will's top choices ended up making the cut. We didn't give him any limits, we just told him to choose what he loved. I suppose we could've told him to only choose science or math courses, but as providence would have it, Will's courses were quite well rounded and included a little history, a little math and a little art.
For three weeks, he studied Greek Mythology, Young Architects and DEEP Memories. For camp first-timers, he also enjoyed a "Perspectives" class which focused on how people learn. He loved every class. On Fridays, they were able to participate in four different "mini-classes". His included Fundamentals of Sport, It Matters, Mystery Class and Watercolor Techniques.
"Thank goodness I didn't get Jewelry Making, Mom. No offense," he added.
"None taken, my dear. Just remember, your uncle owns his own jewelry business and designs beautiful pieces. There's nothing unmanly about that," I replied.
Honestly, I think there was a three-way tie for his classes. But, if I had to declare a winner, I'd say Young Architects. In the class, they designed their "Dream House," calculated the square footage and the price for flooring, molding and other construction components. Once designed, they drew it to scale and then calculated its current market value. At just over $400,000, and complete with a pizziera, basketball court and ice cream parlor, Will's house would be ANY person's dream. Outstanding job, buddy.
In Greek Mythology, he was thrilled to have his former Texas history teacher. He was already totally into the Percy Jackson series, so this class was right up his alley. But, it did remind me I need to brush up on my Greek gods and goddesses :) Persephone is why we have seasons, right?!
DEEP Memories was probably the most meaningful and heartfelt choice. The students were asked to scrapbook something of importance...Will chose his 10-year-old trip to D.C. and then presented the book to Scott as a surprise for Father's Day. What a big heart. And, the book was so well done!
He's already excited about going back next summer (this spring's scores qualified him again) and we are extremely proud of his growing imagination, love of learning and happy spirit.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Before & After: The Pantry
I am a self-proclaimed lover of all things elfa. Me and the Container Store? We go way back. I distinctly remember my first-ever trip to the Container Store when I was in college. I went with my then-college roommate to the store in Houston. I laid one eye on their drawer systems and I was in love. A few months ago when my sorority sisters and I got together, we stopped in at Charming Charlies and they all said, "Kathryn, it's the store made just for you!" {everything is color coded - brilliant!}
Some people call it OCD, I call it being efficient. I only consistently lose two things in my life - my cell phone and my shoes. For everything else, there is a place.
Our pantry wasn't horrific, but we didn't have a system and I needed a couple more shelves for bulk storage and seasonal kid items, like water bottles. The shelves were all funky and we had an odd angled wall which made storage a little tricky. My old pantry in our smaller house was double the size, but I didn't have near the cabinet space. In this house we have many more cabinets, so I truly only store food and a few kid items like water bottles and lunch sacks in there now.
We had a three-day weekend and after "convincing" Scott of my plan, he accepted it on one condition. His part of the project had to be completed by noon on Saturday. Done and done.
Here's the result! I got rid of all the bulky cereal, snack and pasta boxes. This way, I know exactly how much food we have left. Any instructions needed were just cut out and double-sticky-taped to the top of the container. The smaller things were placed in some wire bins I scored on sale from Crate & Barrel. I reorganized the shelving on the wall and the door to group like things together - like all the pb&j supplies (jams, nutella, PB and honey) are on one shelf, within easy reach for the kids. All in all? Love. It!
If you ever need me to come help you declutter and maximize your space - holla anytime. I love it when a plan comes together!
Some people call it OCD, I call it being efficient. I only consistently lose two things in my life - my cell phone and my shoes. For everything else, there is a place.
Our pantry wasn't horrific, but we didn't have a system and I needed a couple more shelves for bulk storage and seasonal kid items, like water bottles. The shelves were all funky and we had an odd angled wall which made storage a little tricky. My old pantry in our smaller house was double the size, but I didn't have near the cabinet space. In this house we have many more cabinets, so I truly only store food and a few kid items like water bottles and lunch sacks in there now.
We had a three-day weekend and after "convincing" Scott of my plan, he accepted it on one condition. His part of the project had to be completed by noon on Saturday. Done and done.
Here's the result! I got rid of all the bulky cereal, snack and pasta boxes. This way, I know exactly how much food we have left. Any instructions needed were just cut out and double-sticky-taped to the top of the container. The smaller things were placed in some wire bins I scored on sale from Crate & Barrel. I reorganized the shelving on the wall and the door to group like things together - like all the pb&j supplies (jams, nutella, PB and honey) are on one shelf, within easy reach for the kids. All in all? Love. It!
BEFORE & AFTER: THE PANTRY
If you ever need me to come help you declutter and maximize your space - holla anytime. I love it when a plan comes together!
Monday, July 11, 2011
HDYDI: Christmas Shopping
I know, you're thinking I'm nuts talking about Christmas in July when it's like 135 degrees outside. But, you asked how I do it, and this is how I roll.
Christmas has traditionally been a season full of activity around here. Mostly the good kind. I find, however, that I enjoy the season even more (if that is at all possible) when I take some of the stressers out of it. Namely, gift buying. Here's how we do it:
HDYDI: CHRISTMAS SHOPPING
1. We've adopted the one gift per child rule. Between grandparents, aunts/uncles, Godparents and us, my children are not lacking in the gift department. We ask each of them to give only one gift and we follow the rule ourselves. Even Santa only brings one big gift - he's a rule follower! The reindeers happen to sneak in a few stocking stuffers when he's not looking, but they're forgiven. What we've found is that we're able to really focus on each child - to take some care and put some real thought into their gift. It has been a wonderful experience. Our children are always delighted by the gift, our wallets are not empty and we all feel that there wasn't Christmas gluttony. Because I really hate that feeling. Gorging on gifts. Truly, that excess makes me sick to my stomach.
2. I have an ongoing list on my phone. When I see something or a relative or friend mentions something they love or want, I write it down...right then. It makes the gift selection much easier instead of just buying a gift off the rack with a week left to shop.
3. I shop early. Like now! In fact, I'll be buying a gift next week when it goes on sale. We've found that spacing out the purchases make the pinch not so much come December.
4. I don't charge it if I can help it. And, if I do, I pay off the balance the next month. Nothing is worse than the January credit card hangover. Been there, done that, not doing it again.
5. The day after Christmas, I hit the sales. Believe it or not, I actually do have a few gifts tucked away for this year already. But, I am purposeful in the buying. A sale is fantastic - trust me, I love them as much as the next person - but I am learning to ask myself this very important question: Am I buying this just because it's on sale or because it's what I came in to buy? Always go with the latter folks. This lesson is a work in progress for me.
6. We stay away from Black Friday like the plague. Just like we skip "tax-free weekend", too. It just isn't worth it. Half the time (well, maybe more than that) you can get the same "sales" on the internet. I like shopping in my pajamas.
7. The internet is my friend. I have a few tried and true stores that are on my internet browser history permanently. I'm also their follower on Twitter and I like them on FB. All that adds up to savings when they post a sale. And, as my dad says, "9 out of 9 times your favorite thing will go on sale." Shopping with littles in tow is usually a recipe for major stress. Doing it all during naptime while listening to Casting Crowns? Way more fun.
8. I try very hard to buy local, buy from a self-employed vendor or make it myself. Yeah, it's good for the economy, but I love the personal factor, too. I've bought and made some great gifts this way.
9. We always participate in the tree of giving at church. There have been several years, Scott and I opted not to buy gifts for one another and bought for an entire family instead. The kids really enjoy the shopping for other kids!
10. Mostly, I just try to remember why we buy gifts. Why we give. It is so stinkin' easy to get caught up in the stuff. Peeling away the reason why is much harder. Every year, we try to do another activity that refocuses our minds and hearts on the reason for the season. And every year I am grateful we make the effort.
Christmas has traditionally been a season full of activity around here. Mostly the good kind. I find, however, that I enjoy the season even more (if that is at all possible) when I take some of the stressers out of it. Namely, gift buying. Here's how we do it:
HDYDI: CHRISTMAS SHOPPING
1. We've adopted the one gift per child rule. Between grandparents, aunts/uncles, Godparents and us, my children are not lacking in the gift department. We ask each of them to give only one gift and we follow the rule ourselves. Even Santa only brings one big gift - he's a rule follower! The reindeers happen to sneak in a few stocking stuffers when he's not looking, but they're forgiven. What we've found is that we're able to really focus on each child - to take some care and put some real thought into their gift. It has been a wonderful experience. Our children are always delighted by the gift, our wallets are not empty and we all feel that there wasn't Christmas gluttony. Because I really hate that feeling. Gorging on gifts. Truly, that excess makes me sick to my stomach.
2. I have an ongoing list on my phone. When I see something or a relative or friend mentions something they love or want, I write it down...right then. It makes the gift selection much easier instead of just buying a gift off the rack with a week left to shop.
3. I shop early. Like now! In fact, I'll be buying a gift next week when it goes on sale. We've found that spacing out the purchases make the pinch not so much come December.
4. I don't charge it if I can help it. And, if I do, I pay off the balance the next month. Nothing is worse than the January credit card hangover. Been there, done that, not doing it again.
5. The day after Christmas, I hit the sales. Believe it or not, I actually do have a few gifts tucked away for this year already. But, I am purposeful in the buying. A sale is fantastic - trust me, I love them as much as the next person - but I am learning to ask myself this very important question: Am I buying this just because it's on sale or because it's what I came in to buy? Always go with the latter folks. This lesson is a work in progress for me.
6. We stay away from Black Friday like the plague. Just like we skip "tax-free weekend", too. It just isn't worth it. Half the time (well, maybe more than that) you can get the same "sales" on the internet. I like shopping in my pajamas.
7. The internet is my friend. I have a few tried and true stores that are on my internet browser history permanently. I'm also their follower on Twitter and I like them on FB. All that adds up to savings when they post a sale. And, as my dad says, "9 out of 9 times your favorite thing will go on sale." Shopping with littles in tow is usually a recipe for major stress. Doing it all during naptime while listening to Casting Crowns? Way more fun.
8. I try very hard to buy local, buy from a self-employed vendor or make it myself. Yeah, it's good for the economy, but I love the personal factor, too. I've bought and made some great gifts this way.
9. We always participate in the tree of giving at church. There have been several years, Scott and I opted not to buy gifts for one another and bought for an entire family instead. The kids really enjoy the shopping for other kids!
10. Mostly, I just try to remember why we buy gifts. Why we give. It is so stinkin' easy to get caught up in the stuff. Peeling away the reason why is much harder. Every year, we try to do another activity that refocuses our minds and hearts on the reason for the season. And every year I am grateful we make the effort.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Happy 40th!
Hard to believe Mom and Dad have been married forty years. Wowser, as my dad would say.
Happy fortieth you two. You are very loved!!
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Golf Camp!
Last week, the bigs went to golf camp. Truly, it's one of my favorites. The coaches really focus on the fundamentals of the game - both the physical and the mental. Golf is a polite sport and Coach Lonny and crew really *drive* that home. Sorry, couldn't help myself.
Will was BEGGING me to not take this picture. Hasn't he learned anything? He got the stank eye from me and promptly smiled because he knew the sooner he did, the sooner the agony would be over. Someday he will thank me for this, right? RIGHT??
Will was BEGGING me to not take this picture. Hasn't he learned anything? He got the stank eye from me and promptly smiled because he knew the sooner he did, the sooner the agony would be over. Someday he will thank me for this, right? RIGHT??
We are grateful for their wonderful coaches, namely Head Coach Lonny and his wonderful assistant, JB.
After camp on Friday, we headed around the corner and enjoyed some really wonderful pool time. For the better part of the hour, it was just us, one other family of two and the lifeguard. That's it. I was able to get in the pool with the kids and watch them all and know that everyone was safe. We all had a great time playing. It was really lovely. You know, one of those good mom days. We need those every once in a while, don't we?
Friday, July 8, 2011
QOTW: July 8, 2011
This Friday, you actually get the story of the week, peppered with quotes (as noted by the fancy-shmancy italics). This is a doozie and totally sums up life with five kids. Enjoy.
Last Friday afternoon, just before naptime, the kids were playing hide-n-go seek. All fine and dandy until someone gets hurt, right? I call them out of my bedroom and I hear a WHACK, then a THUD, see John Paul walk out of my room sheepishly and hear a WAAAA from Clare. She walks out holding her arm.
Mom-radar kicked in and I immediately knew the following things to be true:
1. John Paul had hurt his sister.
2. Possibly on purpose.
3. Clare had nursemaid's elbow.
4. The ER visit would cost us around $400 smackeroos (hopsital room, ER doc, x-ray + a valium for me).
5. I was completely peeved.
John Paul got sent to timeout while I muttered something like, "Your piggy bank better have $400 bucks, mister."
I took Clare upstairs to her room and tried to bend her arm.
"MOMMY THAT HURTS!" she wailed.
"D****T," I tried to say quietly.
Will softly whispers, "I heard that, Mom."
Proof that I did not.
Before I call Scott, I decide to text my college roommate whose husband is an ER doc. Todd knows us well. This would be, after all, our THIRTEENTH visit to the ER. Can I just say that is wrong on so, so, SO many levels? While I'm waiting to hear back, I call Scott and say, "Well, are you ready to start off the weekend with a bang?"
In the meantime, Clare is continuing to cry, I get Luke down for a nap, John Paul is in timeout and Will and Anna-Laura are doing their best to keep C calm.
I hang up the phone and hear the familiar 'ding' on my phone. Incoming text says Todd is not at work, but I can call him on his cell. I call, get the voicemail, leave a slightly exhasperated message and hope that he calls back soon.
Clare is still crying, Luke is (thankfully) still sleeping, John Paul is still sitting in timeout, W and ALG are still doing a great job and I'm still muttering under my breath.
The phone rings and it's Dr. Todd on the other end of the line. We chat briefly about how it all went down and then I ask, "So, should I take her to the ER or could we swing by the Urgent Care place across the street?"
"Well, do you want to fix it yourself?" he says.
Hallelujah, baby. "YES!" I reply, perhaps a bit too enthusiasticly?
I put Dr. T on speakerphone and less than a minute later the crying has ceased and the elbow is fixed.
I practically scream in the phone, "Holy smokes, Todd. You. Are. So. Awesome."
Then I text his wife: "Todd is awesome. Walked me thru it on the phone. All better. Tell him he has a six pack of beer with his name ALL over it."
Oh, yeah. Momma has skillz.
As I'm walking down the stairs, I hear a tiny little voice say, "So, Mom. Can I get out of timeout now?"
He's still sitting there.
And that, my sweet readers, is your SOTW!
Last Friday afternoon, just before naptime, the kids were playing hide-n-go seek. All fine and dandy until someone gets hurt, right? I call them out of my bedroom and I hear a WHACK, then a THUD, see John Paul walk out of my room sheepishly and hear a WAAAA from Clare. She walks out holding her arm.
Mom-radar kicked in and I immediately knew the following things to be true:
1. John Paul had hurt his sister.
2. Possibly on purpose.
3. Clare had nursemaid's elbow.
4. The ER visit would cost us around $400 smackeroos (hopsital room, ER doc, x-ray + a valium for me).
5. I was completely peeved.
John Paul got sent to timeout while I muttered something like, "Your piggy bank better have $400 bucks, mister."
I took Clare upstairs to her room and tried to bend her arm.
"MOMMY THAT HURTS!" she wailed.
"D****T," I tried to say quietly.
Will softly whispers, "I heard that, Mom."
Proof that I did not.
Before I call Scott, I decide to text my college roommate whose husband is an ER doc. Todd knows us well. This would be, after all, our THIRTEENTH visit to the ER. Can I just say that is wrong on so, so, SO many levels? While I'm waiting to hear back, I call Scott and say, "Well, are you ready to start off the weekend with a bang?"
In the meantime, Clare is continuing to cry, I get Luke down for a nap, John Paul is in timeout and Will and Anna-Laura are doing their best to keep C calm.
I hang up the phone and hear the familiar 'ding' on my phone. Incoming text says Todd is not at work, but I can call him on his cell. I call, get the voicemail, leave a slightly exhasperated message and hope that he calls back soon.
Clare is still crying, Luke is (thankfully) still sleeping, John Paul is still sitting in timeout, W and ALG are still doing a great job and I'm still muttering under my breath.
The phone rings and it's Dr. Todd on the other end of the line. We chat briefly about how it all went down and then I ask, "So, should I take her to the ER or could we swing by the Urgent Care place across the street?"
"Well, do you want to fix it yourself?" he says.
Hallelujah, baby. "YES!" I reply, perhaps a bit too enthusiasticly?
I put Dr. T on speakerphone and less than a minute later the crying has ceased and the elbow is fixed.
I practically scream in the phone, "Holy smokes, Todd. You. Are. So. Awesome."
Then I text his wife: "Todd is awesome. Walked me thru it on the phone. All better. Tell him he has a six pack of beer with his name ALL over it."
Oh, yeah. Momma has skillz.
As I'm walking down the stairs, I hear a tiny little voice say, "So, Mom. Can I get out of timeout now?"
He's still sitting there.
And that, my sweet readers, is your SOTW!
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Leg Bling
Like forever and a day ago, on Good Friday, Luke got his foot braces. Or, to be all medical, his SMOs. A week beforehand, I trooped up to the doctor with all five kids. Yep, all five.
There are two exam rooms - one really huge one and one itty, bitty tiny one. Guess which one we got? Uh huh, the small one. The kids actually did pretty well. I put two on reading duty, one on iPhone camera duty and one on "keep Luke happy" duty.
Our amazing orthotist, Bud, who fitted Luke for his helmet last July was on the case again for Luke's foot braces. Or is it feet braces? I don't know. It didn't take long at all and a few days later the actual braces came in and we trooped back up for his fitting. These are much different than his helmet in that we don't have to go in every two weeks for an adjustment. It's likely he will wear them two years. Yes, I said years. But, we won't go back in for about a year to get new ones.
We put them on over his socks and they cover his entire foot, ankle and about two inches above the ankle. His shoes then fit over the top of those. Now, his shoes are three sizes bigger and two times as wide as before. We call them his clown feet! I was really worried that we would have to go back to physical therapy when he got the braces as I was convinced that it would really throw things off. Guess I was wrong.
When we went to get his new shoes, the gal helping us encouraged Luke to take a few steps. I looked at her and apologetically explained, "Oh he just got these new braces so he won't be able to do that."
Then, he walked across the room as if to say, "Mom, please don't tell me what I can't do."
The braces haven't slowed him down one single bit. In fact, I think he runs a little faster and a lot steadier. He wears them during his waking hours and we take them off for naps and bedtime.
I'm so hopeful that this proactive approach will help him in the long-term and it will be yet another thing he'll have to read the blog to remember!
There are two exam rooms - one really huge one and one itty, bitty tiny one. Guess which one we got? Uh huh, the small one. The kids actually did pretty well. I put two on reading duty, one on iPhone camera duty and one on "keep Luke happy" duty.
Our amazing orthotist, Bud, who fitted Luke for his helmet last July was on the case again for Luke's foot braces. Or is it feet braces? I don't know. It didn't take long at all and a few days later the actual braces came in and we trooped back up for his fitting. These are much different than his helmet in that we don't have to go in every two weeks for an adjustment. It's likely he will wear them two years. Yes, I said years. But, we won't go back in for about a year to get new ones.
We put them on over his socks and they cover his entire foot, ankle and about two inches above the ankle. His shoes then fit over the top of those. Now, his shoes are three sizes bigger and two times as wide as before. We call them his clown feet! I was really worried that we would have to go back to physical therapy when he got the braces as I was convinced that it would really throw things off. Guess I was wrong.
When we went to get his new shoes, the gal helping us encouraged Luke to take a few steps. I looked at her and apologetically explained, "Oh he just got these new braces so he won't be able to do that."
Then, he walked across the room as if to say, "Mom, please don't tell me what I can't do."
The braces haven't slowed him down one single bit. In fact, I think he runs a little faster and a lot steadier. He wears them during his waking hours and we take them off for naps and bedtime.
I'm so hopeful that this proactive approach will help him in the long-term and it will be yet another thing he'll have to read the blog to remember!
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
HDYDI: Grocery Shopping
Truth is, I just don't go.
HA!
Obviously with 7 peeps in the house (6 currently eating :) and two mighty hungry growing boys - we have a lot 'o groceries flowing through our pantry door. Hang tight, that's my before & after in a couple of weeks!! Here's how we roll with food.
HDYDI: GROCERY SHOPPING
1. Back in the Dark Ages, before stellar technology like iPhones, I did this with a sticky note. Whichever way you roll, you can play, too. When we think of something that needs to be added to the grocery list, we pop it in our iPhones via the Cozi app. If you're not all fancy like that, have a sticky pad nearby (preferably on the fridge) and jot down the needed item as you remember it. That way, you are prepared the next time you hit the store and you don't have to call your husband on his way home to pick up that "one thing" you forget. Completely hypothetical, of course. I have NEVER done that. Ever.
2. I'm all about planning. Find your favorite store and spend a few minutes figuring out where things are. Or, if you're me, send Scott to do that. His dad owned five grocery stores growing up, so if I'm ever stuck and can't find anything, I text him. He always knows where they put stuff. It's awesome!!
3. Now, if you're flying solo, stop reading this blog post. Seriously.
4. Before we even set foot in the store, my kids get the 1-2-3:
1) What kind of choices do we expect? (GOOD CHOICES).
2) What happens if you make bad choices? (WE GO TO TIMEOUT AND LOSE A PRIVILEGE)
3) Then, we assign "jobs." (see #5)
5. The job assignments make for a much smoother shopping experience. Note, I did not say awesome experience. That would be #3. This should leave you with the ability to actually get what you came in for and back out to your car with no lasting marks, really nasty stares from other shoppers or permanent brain damage. For example: Clare, you hold the list; Anna-Laura and JP, you put the stuff in the basket; Will, you cross off the items; Luke, you look cute :).
6. I try to plan my grocery outings according to the type. If I have a massive list of groceries, I go really early in the morning, like 6AM early, before Scott leaves the house for work. I've tried the evening runs, but it seems like everyone else is there, too. If it's a moderate list, I'll get everyone off to school, Clare at MDO and then Luke and I will head in to get our stuff. If it's a quick trip, I knock it out while the bigs are in school. Summer is dicey. Don't ask how I'm doing it right now.
7. I should probably come clean. I am not a couponer. I'm just a deal searcher. I rarely buy brand-name stuff. The store brands, even if you're using a name-brand coupon, are almost always cheaper. Back in my 4-H days, I learned to calculate the cost per ounce to find out if the bigger size, was in fact, a better deal. Sometimes, but not always. It's not rocket science. If you just look at the label on the shelf, the store usually calculates the per ounce cost for you.
8. Stick to the list. The endcaps will kill you everytime.
9. If I have littles in tow, I avoid going to the grocery store just before mealtimes or naptimes. Your kids will be cranky + hungry + tantrum prone = purgatory for you. There is nothing more I detest than seeing kids at HEB after 8pm. Don't they put their kids to bed?? I digress.
10. If you can't find what you're looking for, ask. It will save you tons of time instead of walking the aisles.
11. Meal planning. This has been so hit or miss at our house. When I do plan ahead, our lives are so much easier at home, mealtimes are less stressful and the grocery bills are much less $$$. Sometimes life gets in the mix, though, and I'm not the best. I'd like to tell you I have a meal plan all laid out, but that would be a big, fat lie. The only thing that is a constant no matter how crazy life may be, is we have homemade pizza every Friday night. I mean homemade - crust, sauce and toppings. It's a snap and the kids love it.
Oh and my PSA for the day: refuse the balloon tied with a sucker for your kids. Those are TWO horrible choking hazards. I think it should be illegal to have those things in stores. Give my kids a sticker or a HEB Buddy Buck, but lose the balloons, people. Aren't you lucky, you get tips and a PSA today!
HA!
Obviously with 7 peeps in the house (6 currently eating :) and two mighty hungry growing boys - we have a lot 'o groceries flowing through our pantry door. Hang tight, that's my before & after in a couple of weeks!! Here's how we roll with food.
HDYDI: GROCERY SHOPPING
1. Back in the Dark Ages, before stellar technology like iPhones, I did this with a sticky note. Whichever way you roll, you can play, too. When we think of something that needs to be added to the grocery list, we pop it in our iPhones via the Cozi app. If you're not all fancy like that, have a sticky pad nearby (preferably on the fridge) and jot down the needed item as you remember it. That way, you are prepared the next time you hit the store and you don't have to call your husband on his way home to pick up that "one thing" you forget. Completely hypothetical, of course. I have NEVER done that. Ever.
2. I'm all about planning. Find your favorite store and spend a few minutes figuring out where things are. Or, if you're me, send Scott to do that. His dad owned five grocery stores growing up, so if I'm ever stuck and can't find anything, I text him. He always knows where they put stuff. It's awesome!!
3. Now, if you're flying solo, stop reading this blog post. Seriously.
4. Before we even set foot in the store, my kids get the 1-2-3:
1) What kind of choices do we expect? (GOOD CHOICES).
2) What happens if you make bad choices? (WE GO TO TIMEOUT AND LOSE A PRIVILEGE)
3) Then, we assign "jobs." (see #5)
5. The job assignments make for a much smoother shopping experience. Note, I did not say awesome experience. That would be #3. This should leave you with the ability to actually get what you came in for and back out to your car with no lasting marks, really nasty stares from other shoppers or permanent brain damage. For example: Clare, you hold the list; Anna-Laura and JP, you put the stuff in the basket; Will, you cross off the items; Luke, you look cute :).
6. I try to plan my grocery outings according to the type. If I have a massive list of groceries, I go really early in the morning, like 6AM early, before Scott leaves the house for work. I've tried the evening runs, but it seems like everyone else is there, too. If it's a moderate list, I'll get everyone off to school, Clare at MDO and then Luke and I will head in to get our stuff. If it's a quick trip, I knock it out while the bigs are in school. Summer is dicey. Don't ask how I'm doing it right now.
7. I should probably come clean. I am not a couponer. I'm just a deal searcher. I rarely buy brand-name stuff. The store brands, even if you're using a name-brand coupon, are almost always cheaper. Back in my 4-H days, I learned to calculate the cost per ounce to find out if the bigger size, was in fact, a better deal. Sometimes, but not always. It's not rocket science. If you just look at the label on the shelf, the store usually calculates the per ounce cost for you.
8. Stick to the list. The endcaps will kill you everytime.
9. If I have littles in tow, I avoid going to the grocery store just before mealtimes or naptimes. Your kids will be cranky + hungry + tantrum prone = purgatory for you. There is nothing more I detest than seeing kids at HEB after 8pm. Don't they put their kids to bed?? I digress.
10. If you can't find what you're looking for, ask. It will save you tons of time instead of walking the aisles.
11. Meal planning. This has been so hit or miss at our house. When I do plan ahead, our lives are so much easier at home, mealtimes are less stressful and the grocery bills are much less $$$. Sometimes life gets in the mix, though, and I'm not the best. I'd like to tell you I have a meal plan all laid out, but that would be a big, fat lie. The only thing that is a constant no matter how crazy life may be, is we have homemade pizza every Friday night. I mean homemade - crust, sauce and toppings. It's a snap and the kids love it.
Oh and my PSA for the day: refuse the balloon tied with a sucker for your kids. Those are TWO horrible choking hazards. I think it should be illegal to have those things in stores. Give my kids a sticker or a HEB Buddy Buck, but lose the balloons, people. Aren't you lucky, you get tips and a PSA today!
Friday, July 1, 2011
QOTW: July 1, 2011
"We've been upstairs frying our brains out playing Monopoly."
Will trying to tell me just how intense the game had been.
"This is SO excitin'!"
Clare, when we pulled up to her favorite restaurant, Chuy's, for her birthday.
It's been a good week, but I am SO grateful for a three-day weekend. Happy birthday America! Usually, a three-day weekend or any extended vacation means Scott has a Container Store project on the horizon. This weekend is no different. Raise a shelf and a drill to another organization project! Make it a great weekend.
Will trying to tell me just how intense the game had been.
"This is SO excitin'!"
Clare, when we pulled up to her favorite restaurant, Chuy's, for her birthday.
It's been a good week, but I am SO grateful for a three-day weekend. Happy birthday America! Usually, a three-day weekend or any extended vacation means Scott has a Container Store project on the horizon. This weekend is no different. Raise a shelf and a drill to another organization project! Make it a great weekend.
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