Well, as you've gathered from the previous two posts things have not gone super well this week. Could be WAY worse but we are still in the hospital as inpatients at 4 days of life which is not normal.
Why is that?
As I'd mentioned previously I had been feeling crappy for 2 weeks prior to delivery. It turns out I have pnuemonia. Dr. K had checked for this via portable chest x-ray immediately post-delivery and it was negative. I still felt awful and was taking Robitusson AC every 4 hours in addition to Ibuprofen. No relief. Very miserable. I had low grade fevers all week but no one paid any attention to them. My OB was worried and ordered a repeat chest x-ray on Wednesday which showed pneumonia. He started me on antibiotics just before being discharged. Well, 24 hours after being discharged I started spiking high temps (up to 103). I called the on call OB and he insisted I go to the ER to be readmitted. :( So here I am. Back in the hospital being pumped full of IV antibiotics. I do feel significantly better tonight that I have in quite some time and an hoping and praying that continues.
Kyle is also still an inpatient. He is doing great for an baby born at 36 weeks 1 day but has some hematology issues that make him likely to have very aggressive jaundice. These are resolved usually by bill lights and he was started on them almost immediately after birth (around 12 hours I believe). He's been fine the whole time - bilirubin never getting higher than 9 so far but he's had steady increases even with super high strength lamps. Thankfully the numbers have stabilized in the past 24 hours but are not going down yet.
So one of us has been hospitalized with pneumonia and the other has a unique, aggressive jaundice. I am planning to tell you more about this specific issue in a separate post. It's fairly confusing to I'm not sure how to explain it best (so I haven't explained it at all). :)
Not really the post partum journey I was hoping to take but certainly could be much worse.
Friday, August 30, 2013
Daily Update
How's Ann?
Well, I am actually feeling much better. I almost hesitate to say that because every time I've thought I've started to feel better during the past two weeks something else gets worse. I had a low grade fever this morning (100) but nothing for the rest of the day (am taking Ibuprofen for rib pain so a low grade fever wouldn't show up).
My vital signs are much more normal for the first time since showing up the hospital early Monday morning. My pulse ox had consistently been 94%, today it is 97-98%. I can tell it's better, without being monitored, because I can breath better again. Not normally but much better.
My pulse is back down to the 70's, it's been around 100 all week, and was 130 when I got admitted last night.
I'm still coughing a lot and cant lay back at all but the cough is more productive which I take as a good sign - likely that pocket of germs is being broken apart.
They did a very thorough work-up involving a lot of cultures. None of the final results are back yet but the sputum culture did show gram positive cocci. This could be any number of things, some good, some bad. I'm hoping it grows out the most common community acquired bug that is easy to treat and has a lot of alternative treatment options that can be given orally.
If it something more aggressive that will be disappointing.
I am currently under precautionary "isolation" while MRSA cultures are pending. They should be back around midnight. Assuming I am not carrying around MRSA I will be able to see Kyle again. I haven't held my baby in 24 hours, not a lot of fun.
So, take home from the day for me...
1) I am still coughing a lot and not feeling great but I think I may feel the best today than I have in 2.5 weeks
2) Please pray that the MRSA cultures are negative!
3) Please pray that the sputum culture grows an easy to treat bug!
4) They told me I won't be discharged until Sunday, a little disappointing but okay. Just hoping that it doesn't get extended for any reason.
5) Please pray that the spiking fevers stay away!
6) Really, really hoping this "can't see the baby" rule will be over soon
7) The super high powered antibiotics that they have me on make it very likely that get a yeast infection. Please pray that I don't get this as I simply can't imagine having to fight thrush while reestablishing nursing at the same time.
How's Kyle?
He is doing fine. His bilirubin went up a little today (8.5 to 8.9). They left him on double therapy lights (I think) and won't recheck him again until tomorrow morning. Once his bilirubin starts going down (not sure the specific cut off but I think it's around 6) they will do a 6 hour trial off of lights to see what happens during that time. If it goes up, back the lights he goes.
After fighting antibiotic choices that were prescribed to me and a neonatologists "must dump breast milk if mom has a fever" rule (not scientifically based at all) I am happy to say that my milk has come in. While I haven't seen Kyle or fed him myself for 24 hours Victor has been doing the feedings every 3 hours with kangaroo care. He's never been responsible for multiple middle of the night feedings before so it's been kind of fun to see. I'm glad he's willing to do them all. The pediatrician felt it was very important he be there and made sure he knew he needed to have skin-to-skin contact with every feeding. I'm thankful for her too.
So at the earliest Kyle will be discharged tomorrow night but more likely Sunday. If I get discharged after him that will be interesting. If all my cultures come back okay then I think they will just let him room in with us. We'll see.
How is the trio?
They are all doing fine I think. Only Erik will talk on the phone to me. He must be anticipating we will be coming home on Saturday (which is what we were hoping for earlier in the week). So he told me, "Mommy, tomorrow's Saturday right?" I told him it was but that we probably can't come home until Sunday. His response, " But I've been missing you a lot mommy." Poor little thing! I miss them too. At one point he asked me how Kyle was doing. He specifically wanted to know, " How's that jaundice mom?" Hahaha! Too funny little guy! He also told me he was saving two cookies for me that grandma made them. Oh my sweet little boy. I think I may pull him and Lainey out of school for a day next week just so I can see them a little bit.
I am so thankful my parents are there to help us out but man do we need to get home and get into a routine again, it's truthfully been a good three weeks since we've had any kind of routine since I was pretty sick leading up to delivery day. For a fairly routine oriented person I'm starting to get a little itchy.
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Prayer Please
So I started was started on antibiotics last night because after 16 days of coughing an xray showed right sided infiltrate and effusion = pneumonia. They'd done a very basic (inaccurate) x-ray monday right after I had delivered and it was okay (portable chest xray which is done sitting in bed). Still not feeling well and spiking very low grade fevers, low pulse (94%), and difficulty taking deep breathes prompted a second more thorough chest xray last night.
I was started on the antibiotics but have higher fevers than ever tonight. So I called the on call OB (not mine) and he wanted me readmitted (102 degrees). I don't mind that except that I will be on a floor in germ land with all other sick patients. I will be completely seperated from Kyle. To say I'm devastated would be a bit of an understatement.
Please pray that this resolves soon so I can go home with him.
Please pray that the nursing isn't completely screwed up. I love nursing my babies.
Pray the the trio are okay, even though I've been gone for a week.
Praying the Kyle doesn't feel abandoned since he has been isolated since birth due to jaundice.
And just pray that I find the strength to not whine and fuss and throw a pity party.
Really hoping that two weeks from now this is a distant memory.
Thank you.
I was started on the antibiotics but have higher fevers than ever tonight. So I called the on call OB (not mine) and he wanted me readmitted (102 degrees). I don't mind that except that I will be on a floor in germ land with all other sick patients. I will be completely seperated from Kyle. To say I'm devastated would be a bit of an understatement.
Please pray that this resolves soon so I can go home with him.
Please pray that the nursing isn't completely screwed up. I love nursing my babies.
Pray the the trio are okay, even though I've been gone for a week.
Praying the Kyle doesn't feel abandoned since he has been isolated since birth due to jaundice.
And just pray that I find the strength to not whine and fuss and throw a pity party.
Really hoping that two weeks from now this is a distant memory.
Thank you.
Kyle James - A birth story I won't likely forget!
Kyle James arrived on Monday at 10:56 pm after a very long day of labor. We was a little early arriving at 36 weeks 1 day. He weighed 6 pounds 12 ounces and was 19.75 inches. The 10 days prior to his birth were an adventure and the first few days post-day continue to be a little nutty.
Here is his story, part one...
The last 10 - 12 days of this pregnancy were quite miserable for me. It started with viral cold symptoms - sore throat mainly that quickly turned into a cough/cold. A few days after the viral symptoms started I also started having constant headaches. Pretty mild at first, but constant. I also was somewhat nauseated and noticed swelling in my hands and legs. A lot of people swell towards the end of pregnancy but this is my 4th (and final) baby and the first time I've ever had noticeable swelling so it was unusual for me.
At work last week Tuesday I decided since I was feeling so crummy that I should check my blood pressure. Well, it was 138/85 in the morning but after lunch was 145/90. I called my OB. He had me come to the hospital so they could monitor the baby and check some lab work. The baby looked great on the monitor. My labs showed nothing drastic but weren't normal either. My creatinine was 2x the expected value for a pregnant lady and I had a trace amount of protein and ketones in my urine. My BP at the hospital was also high when sitting up (140/85) but completely normal laying down.
I saw my OB doctor again the next day in his office. That day he repeated the lab work - no changes. He also did an ultrasound which looked good - placenta, fluid, and baby all were okay. He sent me home with instructions to call if I got worse but otherwise he'd see me Monday.
Well, I felt reassured so mentally felt better but physically continued to get worse. The cold symptoms aside from my awful, terrible cough seemed to improve but the headache was getting worse. I was truly barely able function. It was noticeably worse starting on Friday but unbearable on Sunday evening. I spiked a low grade temp late Sunday night (100 degrees) and then just started to panic.
I knew I was too sick to drive myself to the the appointment the next day (1.5 hours from our house) so I sent out a few text messages seeing if friends could help with bus pick up. Then I tried to sleep. No luck, just more panic and pain (by now my whole body was in pain and the headache just like nothing I've ever experienced). Finally I decided I couldn't wait until the 11:30 for my appointment and needed to go in now.
So we roused my friend Laura out of bed at 2:30 AM and headed to the hospital. On the way to the hospital I noticed I was having contractions. I didn't think anything of them but did notice them.
Once I made it to the hospital they hooked me up to monitors and repeated lab work. The labs were the same - elevated creatinine plus now my uric acid levels were elevated. BP was borderline. The contractions, which were unusual for this pregnancy, continued every 2-3 minutes. The nurses seemed to write off any headache concerns I had but were excited about the contractions.
My doctor wasn't on call that night but by 0700 he took over my care. He came to the hospital and with zero hesitation decided I should be admitted and let my labor progress (I had been zero and closed 5 days prior and was now 2 cm). So I labored on my own for about 12 hours total - progressing to a whopping 3 cm. Feeling completely crappy the whole time.
Dr. K offered to augment the labor at that point so I got an epidural. He broke my water and started pitocin around 5:00 PM. I had some relief from the epidural initially. Not as much as normal as I could still feel everything but some.
Around 7 pm the contractions were very noticeable so I let me nurse know. She got excited because that often means patients with epidurals are close to dilated. Well, I was at a 4. Ha!
An hour later I was having much more intense contractions, not horrible but had to breathe through them. I also started throwing up. Again thinking maybe I was fully dilated my doctor checked me - 7 cm.
Okay - it was going fast. I was definitely uncomfortable though so my nurse gave my epidural a small bolus. No change. The anesthesiologist, feeling responsible I'm sure, gave me a large bolus. Again no change. At this point I did not want anyone monkeying with the epidural and figured I'd just tough it out.
I had thought about trying to make it through delivery pain med free but then felt so crappy when labor day arrived that I lost that determination. Well, a failed epidural gave me that chance anyway. Ha!
Within another hour I was vomiting again and now in terrible pain - basically hopping off of the bed. (At some point she shut off the pitocin at my request but the intensity did not improve.) My nurse was like, "Okay, I don't even need to check you. It's time to push. Let me grab your OB." Thankfully she was right. 15- 20 minutes later Kyle James was born. Not without a few involuntary tears on my part, a lot of talking myself mentally through the agony, and praying it would be over quickly. It was a very, very intense last 56 minutes but we made it! (My OB said when that happens - ineffective epidurals he figures the patient experience 80% of the real pain or so. He has no way of really knowing, but if that's accurate I certainly would not have wanted to experience even 1% more!)
Kyle came out screaming and looking good. We delayed his cord cutting for 3-4 minutes (until the placenta was out basically). His apgars were 8/8. He has a large head of light brown/blond hair and dark blue eyes. We are not sure who he looks like at this point.
He had some noticeable retractions 5- 10 minutes after birth and circumoral cyanosis but his stats all looked great. The retractions resolved completely after being suctioned thankfully. The cyanosis is gone now too (resolved on it's own - pulse ox was never below 98%).
Immediately after birth my headache was gone and I felt immensely better. I can't really describe how intense the headache was and don't think I really knew how bad it was until it was gone and I could function again.
My OB could have stopped my labor (most likely) but both he and I are convinced that Kyle needed to be born this week. I am so thankful Kyle declared that himself as it helps eliminate any guilt I would have felt when faced with a decision about inducing labor which would have happened I think had I not been contracting regularly on my own.
The first two days have been filled with joy, fatigue, jaundice, and coughing. More to come on that later.
I am so thankful he is here and overall healthy! He is a darling, mild-mannered (so far) baby boy. I can't wait for him to be able to go home (and for me to start feeling normal) so we can get into a new routine as a family of six.
We've had a lot of help from friends and family this week which I am so thankful for (Laura, AJ, Lauren, and mom). Thank you!
Here is his story, part one...
The last 10 - 12 days of this pregnancy were quite miserable for me. It started with viral cold symptoms - sore throat mainly that quickly turned into a cough/cold. A few days after the viral symptoms started I also started having constant headaches. Pretty mild at first, but constant. I also was somewhat nauseated and noticed swelling in my hands and legs. A lot of people swell towards the end of pregnancy but this is my 4th (and final) baby and the first time I've ever had noticeable swelling so it was unusual for me.
At work last week Tuesday I decided since I was feeling so crummy that I should check my blood pressure. Well, it was 138/85 in the morning but after lunch was 145/90. I called my OB. He had me come to the hospital so they could monitor the baby and check some lab work. The baby looked great on the monitor. My labs showed nothing drastic but weren't normal either. My creatinine was 2x the expected value for a pregnant lady and I had a trace amount of protein and ketones in my urine. My BP at the hospital was also high when sitting up (140/85) but completely normal laying down.
I saw my OB doctor again the next day in his office. That day he repeated the lab work - no changes. He also did an ultrasound which looked good - placenta, fluid, and baby all were okay. He sent me home with instructions to call if I got worse but otherwise he'd see me Monday.
Well, I felt reassured so mentally felt better but physically continued to get worse. The cold symptoms aside from my awful, terrible cough seemed to improve but the headache was getting worse. I was truly barely able function. It was noticeably worse starting on Friday but unbearable on Sunday evening. I spiked a low grade temp late Sunday night (100 degrees) and then just started to panic.
I knew I was too sick to drive myself to the the appointment the next day (1.5 hours from our house) so I sent out a few text messages seeing if friends could help with bus pick up. Then I tried to sleep. No luck, just more panic and pain (by now my whole body was in pain and the headache just like nothing I've ever experienced). Finally I decided I couldn't wait until the 11:30 for my appointment and needed to go in now.
So we roused my friend Laura out of bed at 2:30 AM and headed to the hospital. On the way to the hospital I noticed I was having contractions. I didn't think anything of them but did notice them.
Once I made it to the hospital they hooked me up to monitors and repeated lab work. The labs were the same - elevated creatinine plus now my uric acid levels were elevated. BP was borderline. The contractions, which were unusual for this pregnancy, continued every 2-3 minutes. The nurses seemed to write off any headache concerns I had but were excited about the contractions.
My doctor wasn't on call that night but by 0700 he took over my care. He came to the hospital and with zero hesitation decided I should be admitted and let my labor progress (I had been zero and closed 5 days prior and was now 2 cm). So I labored on my own for about 12 hours total - progressing to a whopping 3 cm. Feeling completely crappy the whole time.
Dr. K offered to augment the labor at that point so I got an epidural. He broke my water and started pitocin around 5:00 PM. I had some relief from the epidural initially. Not as much as normal as I could still feel everything but some.
Around 7 pm the contractions were very noticeable so I let me nurse know. She got excited because that often means patients with epidurals are close to dilated. Well, I was at a 4. Ha!
An hour later I was having much more intense contractions, not horrible but had to breathe through them. I also started throwing up. Again thinking maybe I was fully dilated my doctor checked me - 7 cm.
Okay - it was going fast. I was definitely uncomfortable though so my nurse gave my epidural a small bolus. No change. The anesthesiologist, feeling responsible I'm sure, gave me a large bolus. Again no change. At this point I did not want anyone monkeying with the epidural and figured I'd just tough it out.
I had thought about trying to make it through delivery pain med free but then felt so crappy when labor day arrived that I lost that determination. Well, a failed epidural gave me that chance anyway. Ha!
Within another hour I was vomiting again and now in terrible pain - basically hopping off of the bed. (At some point she shut off the pitocin at my request but the intensity did not improve.) My nurse was like, "Okay, I don't even need to check you. It's time to push. Let me grab your OB." Thankfully she was right. 15- 20 minutes later Kyle James was born. Not without a few involuntary tears on my part, a lot of talking myself mentally through the agony, and praying it would be over quickly. It was a very, very intense last 56 minutes but we made it! (My OB said when that happens - ineffective epidurals he figures the patient experience 80% of the real pain or so. He has no way of really knowing, but if that's accurate I certainly would not have wanted to experience even 1% more!)
Kyle came out screaming and looking good. We delayed his cord cutting for 3-4 minutes (until the placenta was out basically). His apgars were 8/8. He has a large head of light brown/blond hair and dark blue eyes. We are not sure who he looks like at this point.
He had some noticeable retractions 5- 10 minutes after birth and circumoral cyanosis but his stats all looked great. The retractions resolved completely after being suctioned thankfully. The cyanosis is gone now too (resolved on it's own - pulse ox was never below 98%).
Immediately after birth my headache was gone and I felt immensely better. I can't really describe how intense the headache was and don't think I really knew how bad it was until it was gone and I could function again.
My OB could have stopped my labor (most likely) but both he and I are convinced that Kyle needed to be born this week. I am so thankful Kyle declared that himself as it helps eliminate any guilt I would have felt when faced with a decision about inducing labor which would have happened I think had I not been contracting regularly on my own.
The first two days have been filled with joy, fatigue, jaundice, and coughing. More to come on that later.
I am so thankful he is here and overall healthy! He is a darling, mild-mannered (so far) baby boy. I can't wait for him to be able to go home (and for me to start feeling normal) so we can get into a new routine as a family of six.
We've had a lot of help from friends and family this week which I am so thankful for (Laura, AJ, Lauren, and mom). Thank you!
Look at the blondish, reddish, light brown hair!
Welcome to the world sweet boy!
We hope the rest of your life is less dramatic that the first week has been.
Saturday, August 24, 2013
Baby #4 - 36 Weeks
Are we there yet? That's what I feel like asking after a long two weeks of not feeling well! Beware, the post below will have more whining then you are used too.
The past month has been very busy!
I took Erik to Kansas and Nebraska 2 weeks ago to visit family and go to my cousin's wedding. It was a fun trip.
About 24 hours after getting back I started feeling crummy and haven't felt well since. It's been a long 12 days. I think the biggest problem is a bad virus that I've had trouble shaking. It started with a terrible sore throat, quickly moved into a head/chest cold. For the past 10 days I've had a terrible cough and headache. I haven't slept very well. About a week into the viral symptoms I started noticing swelling in my hands and feet, nausea and of course the awful headache. So while at work on Tuesday I decided to take my blood pressure. That was probably a mistake. It came back elevated. My blood pressure is usually about 110/60 but that day it was 145/90 twice. I called my OB thinking he'd let me do some lab work at my clinic as I had an appointment the following morning. He wanted lab work, but he wanted it done on his turf. :) So I ended my office hours early, arranged babysitters (thank you Aom and Ervins) and then headed to the hospital. My BP sitting up was 140/80, laying down was normal. Labs were okay, baby was fine on the strip. I went back to the clinic the next morning. Repeat labs were done and okay. Dr. K did an ultrasound that morning - fluid levels and placenta all looked okay. So he sent me home on limited activity (no working out) and I will see him again Monday.
Since Wednesday I have continued to feel crappy. The swelling seems better but man do I have a bad headache and can not get rid of the cough. Yesterday when I woke up my face, teeth, and neck hurt in addition to my head so I went to the walk in clinic and have now been started on antibiotics for a sinus infection. I am hoping and praying I feel like a half way normal human soon! My blood pressure yesterday was still the high end of normal (135/85) but not high enough that they'd do anything about it.
Aside from not feeling well the pregnancy is going just fine I think. I'm eagerly awaiting not being pregnant anymore mainly because it seems like I won't feel normal again until I deliver. We'll see.
Heartburn continues to be an issue. It's not daily, thankfully, but when it kicks in nothing seems to get rid of it. On the ultrasound this week I could NOT see any hair so now I've decided this baby will be bald like L and C. (You could definitely see hair on E's ultrasounds by now.)
I've basically been side-lined from all forms of exercise for the past 10-11 days. At first it was self-imposed because I didn't feel well, then imposed by my doctor. I managed to run all the way to 34.5 weeks pregnant. I'm pretty proud of that but think that will be my last run until post-delivery. Since I still don't feel well I haven't been feeling too anxious about getting zero exercise but I am a little worried that no exercise will delay the arrival of baby boy as I've always walked 4-6 miles a day right up until delivery day which always triggered plenty of braxton hicks contractions.
I've gained 19-20 pounds at this point. Baby boy was measuring just over 5 pounds on ultrasound (this can be off by a pound or more) about 5 days ago so he may be a peanut. I am really hoping he will be a good 7 pounds at birth. I delivered the other three 10-15 days from now. It's exciting to know he will be here soon!
To sum things up: I'm fighting a bad virus, turned sinus infection. Monitoring borderline blood pressure issues. Praying for a healthy baby and that I will be feeling better at the time of delivery.
36 weeks baby #4
The past month has been very busy!
I took Erik to Kansas and Nebraska 2 weeks ago to visit family and go to my cousin's wedding. It was a fun trip.
About 24 hours after getting back I started feeling crummy and haven't felt well since. It's been a long 12 days. I think the biggest problem is a bad virus that I've had trouble shaking. It started with a terrible sore throat, quickly moved into a head/chest cold. For the past 10 days I've had a terrible cough and headache. I haven't slept very well. About a week into the viral symptoms I started noticing swelling in my hands and feet, nausea and of course the awful headache. So while at work on Tuesday I decided to take my blood pressure. That was probably a mistake. It came back elevated. My blood pressure is usually about 110/60 but that day it was 145/90 twice. I called my OB thinking he'd let me do some lab work at my clinic as I had an appointment the following morning. He wanted lab work, but he wanted it done on his turf. :) So I ended my office hours early, arranged babysitters (thank you Aom and Ervins) and then headed to the hospital. My BP sitting up was 140/80, laying down was normal. Labs were okay, baby was fine on the strip. I went back to the clinic the next morning. Repeat labs were done and okay. Dr. K did an ultrasound that morning - fluid levels and placenta all looked okay. So he sent me home on limited activity (no working out) and I will see him again Monday.
My ankles on Tuesday night (this has improved thankfully)!
Aside from not feeling well the pregnancy is going just fine I think. I'm eagerly awaiting not being pregnant anymore mainly because it seems like I won't feel normal again until I deliver. We'll see.
Heartburn continues to be an issue. It's not daily, thankfully, but when it kicks in nothing seems to get rid of it. On the ultrasound this week I could NOT see any hair so now I've decided this baby will be bald like L and C. (You could definitely see hair on E's ultrasounds by now.)
I've basically been side-lined from all forms of exercise for the past 10-11 days. At first it was self-imposed because I didn't feel well, then imposed by my doctor. I managed to run all the way to 34.5 weeks pregnant. I'm pretty proud of that but think that will be my last run until post-delivery. Since I still don't feel well I haven't been feeling too anxious about getting zero exercise but I am a little worried that no exercise will delay the arrival of baby boy as I've always walked 4-6 miles a day right up until delivery day which always triggered plenty of braxton hicks contractions.
I've gained 19-20 pounds at this point. Baby boy was measuring just over 5 pounds on ultrasound (this can be off by a pound or more) about 5 days ago so he may be a peanut. I am really hoping he will be a good 7 pounds at birth. I delivered the other three 10-15 days from now. It's exciting to know he will be here soon!
To sum things up: I'm fighting a bad virus, turned sinus infection. Monitoring borderline blood pressure issues. Praying for a healthy baby and that I will be feeling better at the time of delivery.
Friday, August 23, 2013
Joy Project -- Cool School policies, sweet little Lainey
237) This year the school has implemented the "rule" that kids are not supposed to bring birthday treats. Instead the school (PTO I think) will provide the birthday kid was a bag of stickers/tattoos and announce the birthday kids name over the loudspeaker. If the birthday kid wants to bring something in they suggested a book or game for the classroom or small little gifts for their classmates (stickers, etc). I am so thrilled by this! With 20 kids in a class that eliminates a sugary treat every 9-10 days of school. Plus it decreases the risk of Erik getting something with nuts in it. Erik doesn't seem to mind and excitedly picked out some neat paint rollers from Lakeshore Learning for his class that we ordered so he'll have it for his birthday in a few weeks.
238) On a similar note: The pre-k teacher used to give the kids a treat (some kind of candy) every Friday. Annoying but I didn't say anything about it. Well, I asked Lainey what treat she got today? A sticker! Haha! Apparently handing out sugary, chemical laden crap to our kids has been limited beyond birthday treats. Yay!
239) Sweet little Lainey was taking a shower one morning this week while I was getting ready in the bathroom. She loves to sing and makes up songs all day long. The song that day consisted of the lyrics, "My mommy loves me oh so much! I love her too!" I couldn't ask for a sweeter little girl. (She spent the first 20 months of her life quite grumpy but man she's been sweet ever since!)
238) On a similar note: The pre-k teacher used to give the kids a treat (some kind of candy) every Friday. Annoying but I didn't say anything about it. Well, I asked Lainey what treat she got today? A sticker! Haha! Apparently handing out sugary, chemical laden crap to our kids has been limited beyond birthday treats. Yay!
239) Sweet little Lainey was taking a shower one morning this week while I was getting ready in the bathroom. She loves to sing and makes up songs all day long. The song that day consisted of the lyrics, "My mommy loves me oh so much! I love her too!" I couldn't ask for a sweeter little girl. (She spent the first 20 months of her life quite grumpy but man she's been sweet ever since!)
Back to School 2013
Lainey and Erik started school this week. Erik is in kindergarten and Lainey is in pre-k (at the elementary school).
As mentioned in the previous post, I was so thankful that Erik has a teacher that is known to be a good teacher and well liked. His first few days have gone well. He's done some fun projects (hand print painting) and went on an adventure around the school chasing after Pete the Cat who had left notes for the class. The full days are really long on both him and me. I'd love it if he could be home by 2 pm but nope the bus doesn't pull up until just after 4 pm (they get on at 845). He's tired for sure! He seems happy with his teacher and class but has always been slow to talk about his day with us so I don't really know what he does all day. He would tell you that he'd rather stay home than go to school. I'm not sure if he really means that or if it is just part of this "I want to do the opposite of whatever you ask of me" stage he is in. He has a cold unfortunately which he caught from me.
Lainey exuberantly started pre-k this week. My sweet little girl is SO excited to be able to ride the bus and go to the same school as Erik. She's had a wonderful week and can't wait to tell me about her day when she gets home. I LOVE her excitement! Her highlights seem to be playing with her friend Alyssa, acting out the "Going on a Bear Hunt" story, and riding the bus. Lainey is in class with 4 kids we know already (not super well). I like them all and it's comforting knowing she will have some familiar faces to spend the day with.
Erik's always enjoyed school but has somewhat of a quiet, melancoly personality (directly inherited from one of his parents). Nothing really seems to bother him at school (drama free) but nothing really seems to excite him either.
The joy that Lainey expresses regarding school is wonderful and infectious. I am hoping and praying that the year continues to go well for both of them!
As mentioned in the previous post, I was so thankful that Erik has a teacher that is known to be a good teacher and well liked. His first few days have gone well. He's done some fun projects (hand print painting) and went on an adventure around the school chasing after Pete the Cat who had left notes for the class. The full days are really long on both him and me. I'd love it if he could be home by 2 pm but nope the bus doesn't pull up until just after 4 pm (they get on at 845). He's tired for sure! He seems happy with his teacher and class but has always been slow to talk about his day with us so I don't really know what he does all day. He would tell you that he'd rather stay home than go to school. I'm not sure if he really means that or if it is just part of this "I want to do the opposite of whatever you ask of me" stage he is in. He has a cold unfortunately which he caught from me.
Lainey exuberantly started pre-k this week. My sweet little girl is SO excited to be able to ride the bus and go to the same school as Erik. She's had a wonderful week and can't wait to tell me about her day when she gets home. I LOVE her excitement! Her highlights seem to be playing with her friend Alyssa, acting out the "Going on a Bear Hunt" story, and riding the bus. Lainey is in class with 4 kids we know already (not super well). I like them all and it's comforting knowing she will have some familiar faces to spend the day with.
Erik's always enjoyed school but has somewhat of a quiet, melancoly personality (directly inherited from one of his parents). Nothing really seems to bother him at school (drama free) but nothing really seems to excite him either.
The joy that Lainey expresses regarding school is wonderful and infectious. I am hoping and praying that the year continues to go well for both of them!
Monday, August 19, 2013
Kindergarten Relief
Erik starts kindergarten in 36 hours!! Lainey starts pre-k 24 hours after that! This is a big week in our household!
I am a little anxious about Erik being gone for 7.5 hours a day! As a kid who's never spent anytime in daycare (the sitter he's had the past year on the days I've worked has come to our house) this is a big change for him (and me!).
There are 6 kindergarten classes in his school. They'd been having 27 kids in a class which made me nervous but enrollment has been down the past two years I guess. So this year he only has 19! That is a big relief.
There is one kindergarten teacher who has a very, very bad reputation amongst parents. She was new to the district last year (not a new teacher) but every parent I know that had a kid in her class either switched schools completely or spent many hours in the principals office complaining. I don't know if it would have been a problem for Erik as he's pretty easy going but man I am so thankful he didn't get her.
I personally know 2 of the other teachers and really like the both. My top choice for him would be Mrs. S and guess what?! That's who he got. I am so so thankful.
She appears to kind and loving. She seems to love the kids and her job. At the same time she seems very organized and disciplined. She has taught for 24 years. I am very, very thankful.
His teacher last year did fine last year academically but doesn't seem to like her job or the kids very much. She's not awful but definitely not my favorite and I'm glad he will be in a different environment this year. Lainey, being in pre-k this year will have the same teacher he did (there are only 2 half day pre-k classes so everyone has the same teacher). I think she will be okay with that teacher too but I will be watching closely. Thankfully both the teacher and aide in the pre-k class know me and seem to like me so if I have any concerns I think they'd be willing to listen to them.
Below is a note that Erik's teacher gave him tonight. I am still feeling quite crappy and haven't slept in a week so even hearing the affectionate tone in this note made me a little teary (such a welcome change from last year).
I surely hope I get some sleep these next two nights or I will be a hot mess on Wednesday! Haha!
Erik's been visibly nervous about starting kindergarten although he could tell I was super excited about his teacher and he seemed quite excited about his classroom. Lainey doesn't seem nervous at all. I suspect to see some first day nerves from both of them later this week but know they will both do well!
I am a little anxious about Erik being gone for 7.5 hours a day! As a kid who's never spent anytime in daycare (the sitter he's had the past year on the days I've worked has come to our house) this is a big change for him (and me!).
There are 6 kindergarten classes in his school. They'd been having 27 kids in a class which made me nervous but enrollment has been down the past two years I guess. So this year he only has 19! That is a big relief.
There is one kindergarten teacher who has a very, very bad reputation amongst parents. She was new to the district last year (not a new teacher) but every parent I know that had a kid in her class either switched schools completely or spent many hours in the principals office complaining. I don't know if it would have been a problem for Erik as he's pretty easy going but man I am so thankful he didn't get her.
I personally know 2 of the other teachers and really like the both. My top choice for him would be Mrs. S and guess what?! That's who he got. I am so so thankful.
She appears to kind and loving. She seems to love the kids and her job. At the same time she seems very organized and disciplined. She has taught for 24 years. I am very, very thankful.
His teacher last year did fine last year academically but doesn't seem to like her job or the kids very much. She's not awful but definitely not my favorite and I'm glad he will be in a different environment this year. Lainey, being in pre-k this year will have the same teacher he did (there are only 2 half day pre-k classes so everyone has the same teacher). I think she will be okay with that teacher too but I will be watching closely. Thankfully both the teacher and aide in the pre-k class know me and seem to like me so if I have any concerns I think they'd be willing to listen to them.
Below is a note that Erik's teacher gave him tonight. I am still feeling quite crappy and haven't slept in a week so even hearing the affectionate tone in this note made me a little teary (such a welcome change from last year).
I surely hope I get some sleep these next two nights or I will be a hot mess on Wednesday! Haha!
Erik's been visibly nervous about starting kindergarten although he could tell I was super excited about his teacher and he seemed quite excited about his classroom. Lainey doesn't seem nervous at all. I suspect to see some first day nerves from both of them later this week but know they will both do well!
Friday, August 16, 2013
Quick Trip to Kansas/Nebraska
My cousin Carly got married last weekend in Nebraska. My cousin Ryan in getting married next weekend in Kansas. I would love to be able to attend both weddings but my OB already gave me the stink eye when I told him I was flying at 34 weeks, no way would flying somewhere at 36 weeks be a good idea. Ha!
Since I can't go to both but still wanted to see both sides of the family I decided to combine the trips. Erik and I flew into Kansas last Thursday. We had quite the adventure getting there that involved one cancelled direct flight, which was replaced with a non-direct flight, both legs of the non-direct flight were delayed. Excellent. We "only" got in 8 hours later than planned. Surprisingly, US airways didn't seem to think compensation of any fashion was necessary despite the fact that we missed an entire day of our vacation. Oh well.
Anyway, we spent our first night at my Aunt Barbara's. My grandma, cousins Austin and Terri and their baby Sadie were there in addition to the Swan family. So nice for everyone to plan around us!
Friday afternoon Erik and I headed up to Lincoln. This should take about 3.5 hours but took us 4.5 hours due to multiple motion sickness stops. Poor kid!
We ate dinner with about 15 members of the Williams family late that night.
Saturday morning we went to a farmer's market with a big crew of family. After that Dad, Erik, and I went to the Lincoln Children's museum. The wedding and rehearsal were both being held at the hotel we were all staying at which was really convenient.
We gathered for quick family photos around 2:45 and spent the rest of the day at the wedding and reception. My Dad and all 5 of his siblings were there which is quite impressive because they live in California, Nebraska, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Egypt! Also impressive was the fact that 4 out of the 5 kids in my Grandpa's family are still alive and they were all at the wedding too.
On Sunday we headed back to Kansas City. We made it without any stops this time (thanks to a big dose of Atarax) and spent the afternoon swimming, eating, and walking.
Monday morning I took Erik to Legoland (met Terri and Sadie there) before going to the airport. He had a blast!
Thankfully no trouble on our trip home!
It was busy and fun. I'm so glad we were able to spend sometime in the midwest before baby #4 arrives.
Since I can't go to both but still wanted to see both sides of the family I decided to combine the trips. Erik and I flew into Kansas last Thursday. We had quite the adventure getting there that involved one cancelled direct flight, which was replaced with a non-direct flight, both legs of the non-direct flight were delayed. Excellent. We "only" got in 8 hours later than planned. Surprisingly, US airways didn't seem to think compensation of any fashion was necessary despite the fact that we missed an entire day of our vacation. Oh well.
Anyway, we spent our first night at my Aunt Barbara's. My grandma, cousins Austin and Terri and their baby Sadie were there in addition to the Swan family. So nice for everyone to plan around us!
Friday afternoon Erik and I headed up to Lincoln. This should take about 3.5 hours but took us 4.5 hours due to multiple motion sickness stops. Poor kid!
We ate dinner with about 15 members of the Williams family late that night.
Saturday morning we went to a farmer's market with a big crew of family. After that Dad, Erik, and I went to the Lincoln Children's museum. The wedding and rehearsal were both being held at the hotel we were all staying at which was really convenient.
We gathered for quick family photos around 2:45 and spent the rest of the day at the wedding and reception. My Dad and all 5 of his siblings were there which is quite impressive because they live in California, Nebraska, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Egypt! Also impressive was the fact that 4 out of the 5 kids in my Grandpa's family are still alive and they were all at the wedding too.
On Sunday we headed back to Kansas City. We made it without any stops this time (thanks to a big dose of Atarax) and spent the afternoon swimming, eating, and walking.
Monday morning I took Erik to Legoland (met Terri and Sadie there) before going to the airport. He had a blast!
Thankfully no trouble on our trip home!
It was busy and fun. I'm so glad we were able to spend sometime in the midwest before baby #4 arrives.
Post-wedding self portrait
(I don't think any other photos were taken of us! Oh well!)
First attempt at using Atarax to help his motion sickness as Dramamine has failed us four times.
The first time I gave it to him he spit it out (mint flavored which he hates).
I gave him another dose and he slept for 3.5 hours!
I think he must have gotten about 1.5 doses because the next time I gave it too him it had
no sedation effect at all.
4-D movie in legoland.
It was pretty fun - squirted us with water and bubbles.
On a More Positive Note....
We had a fun day yesterday (before the head cold forced me to lay down). We biked/walked to school and met some friends there. Then I took them all for "back to school" haircuts. Lainey loves to get her hair cut which is kind of funny because she needs way less haircuts than the boys. Anyway, I love her hair in a bob and she liked that idea yesterday. It's pretty short but very cute.
After that we went to the beach. I didn't bring my phone (so no photos) but the kids had a nice time. This beach has a net that keeps the jelly fish out (there are a LOT of them) and has a big beach.
Here are some random photos of the kids...
After that we went to the beach. I didn't bring my phone (so no photos) but the kids had a nice time. This beach has a net that keeps the jelly fish out (there are a LOT of them) and has a big beach.
Here are some random photos of the kids...
Coloring together while Lainey was getting her haircut
They all sit together in this chair when watching a video.
I am not sure how long that will last!
Cute little girl, eating breakfast on the deck.
The high's have been in the 70's this week.
Unheard of out here in August!
Just a silly video of Carson showing off a new skill.
For those of you following Daron's story....
He's received good news - click on the caring bridge link to the left to see his most recent update.
Sick Day Continued...
Well, thankfully the large dose of tylenol I took seems to be kicking in because now Erik is puking. Yep. This is actually creating a bit of anxiety for me, not the puking, but just the fact that he is sick again. He's always been the kid who catches stuff and at times I have to squash down this fear that there is something else wrong with him. Overall, I think he's okay but for example during the past two months he had 48 hours of high fevers with 2 episodes of vomiting (no one else was sick), a couple weeks later one day of vomiting that no one else got, a couple weeks later a weird rash all over his body (no other symptoms - no one else got it), and now 2 weeks later a rash on his back and vomiting (which hopefully no one else will get).
I'm not sure how you would explain those things really besides viral soup/bad luck - the pediatricians reading this (Feifei, Kristin, and Dave via Kristal) feel free to let me know if you think I'm nuts or if it is something I should bring up to his pediatrician.
I'm not sure how you would explain those things really besides viral soup/bad luck - the pediatricians reading this (Feifei, Kristin, and Dave via Kristal) feel free to let me know if you think I'm nuts or if it is something I should bring up to his pediatrician.
Rash on his back
Erik fell asleep at noon, so even though he is trying
to convince me "he just ate too much" I know he's not
feeling great. (Plus he had barely eaten anything!)
Sick Day
I'm interrupting my unscheduled blog hiatus to complain. I bet you're excited! We've had quite a bit of fun during the past two weeks but I am now sick. It's just a crummy cold but at 35 weeks, with three kids under my wings, and a husband out of town I am done. Victor's work trip is only a few days but it is over his "furlough" Friday (he's worked most of them for the Navy) and Saturday which just makes me grumpy.
Anyway, it seems a number of people at the wedding last weekend brought home the same bug. Started with razor blades in my throat (Tuesday) and has progressed to a bad headache, sinus congestion, cough, low grade fever, and just generally feeling crappy.
I'd have to say I'm glad that I have this now and not in 2-3 weeks because I'd hate to think about the possibility of laboring while feeling so crummy. So far the kids and Victor seem fine. The kids start school in a few days, if you'd pray that they stay healthy so they don't have to miss the first week of school (or go feeling bad) that'd be great. Erik had pneumonia at the start of school last year and missed the first 3 days! I am hoping not to repeat that scenario.
Anyway, it seems a number of people at the wedding last weekend brought home the same bug. Started with razor blades in my throat (Tuesday) and has progressed to a bad headache, sinus congestion, cough, low grade fever, and just generally feeling crappy.
I'd have to say I'm glad that I have this now and not in 2-3 weeks because I'd hate to think about the possibility of laboring while feeling so crummy. So far the kids and Victor seem fine. The kids start school in a few days, if you'd pray that they stay healthy so they don't have to miss the first week of school (or go feeling bad) that'd be great. Erik had pneumonia at the start of school last year and missed the first 3 days! I am hoping not to repeat that scenario.
Monday, August 5, 2013
Furlough 2013
As you've probably heard, the federal government decided that the best way to cut their egregious spending was to dock the pay of many middle class workers by 20%. I know this doesn't affect most of you personally but almost everyone in our community is directly impacted.
Victor is furloughed for 3 months this year in addition to all other federal workers in our area. Most of the contractors are furloughed as well. If they aren't furloughed, the government has at times declared that the contractor is getting paid too much and just randomly cuts the salaries of the employees hired by the contractor. Not by 20% but this cut is a permanent loss to their salary. Some contracted employees have just lost their jobs completely.
Military pay is not impacted but their productivity is hindered significantly. Basically for them Fridays are a wasted day since none of the thousands of support staff are able to work. This seems like a bit of a free day off to me (which I don't think seems too bad) but you'd be surprised at how annoyed the military personnel seem to be by this lack of productivity. Instead of gloating about shorter Fridays, they are frustrated by the inability to work. Pretty impressive!
I've been amazed at how little people in our community have been complaining. It doesn't mean it isn't tough. I know of stay-at-home parents who have been forced to find part-time jobs, people are dipping into their emergency funds, 401K contributions are often halted or decreased, kids have been pulled out of camps, activities, and preschool for the fall. Thankfully, it seems as though most people I know have been able to make these "small" sacrifices without feeling like they are risk to lose their homes or something much more catastrophic.
The general attitude seems to be that we'll just suck it up until the end of the fiscal year. If the lovely government decides to extend it to 2014 you can believe there will be more complaining for the middle class workers who have been dinged.
We've lived in a military community for 2.5 years now and for the 3.5 years before that, while living in NOVA, Victor was working at the Pentagon as an active duty Naval officer. So after almost 6 years out here (hard to believe) I forget how little the rest of the nation is impacted by government and military decisions.
I wanted to post this not to complain about it but just to remind the people reading this (most who are not impacted by this recent furlough) that this furlough deeply impacts hundreds of thousands of middle class employees. Clearly, the nation has continued to march forward but a lot of hard working people are making big sacrifices.
On a different note living in a military community has been one of the best experiences of my life. Again, being from the midwest, it is so easy to forget that many families are making huge sacrifices over and over again because they are in the military. Most, if not all, of my military friends have endured 1 or more deployments. In addition to that they move every two to three years, with very little input into where they are headed. Often the military spouse works long hours and travels. The spouses left at home to manage a job, house, kids, and pets never cease to amaze me. They complain so much less than they should! Are there perks? Of course! They get paid well, they get to see lots of different parts of the nation/world, and the military employees have pretty neat and important jobs. But it is not without sacrifice and I hope that I never forget that!
Lastly, military "wives" are some of the best friends you could ever ask for. They are always willing to help out (because someone has helped them out before), they embrace friendship intensely no matter how long you/they will be in the area, and they are tough (when you are forced to be a single parent repeatedly not much can slow you down).
So that's it - I hope those reading this will take a second to think about what it would be like to suddenly lose 20% of your salary through no fault of your own (obviously lots of people can relate to losing a job/part of their income but I'd guess most people reading this can't). Also, spend a second being grateful for the hard working military families that sacrifice daily to help keep this country safe.
Victor is furloughed for 3 months this year in addition to all other federal workers in our area. Most of the contractors are furloughed as well. If they aren't furloughed, the government has at times declared that the contractor is getting paid too much and just randomly cuts the salaries of the employees hired by the contractor. Not by 20% but this cut is a permanent loss to their salary. Some contracted employees have just lost their jobs completely.
Military pay is not impacted but their productivity is hindered significantly. Basically for them Fridays are a wasted day since none of the thousands of support staff are able to work. This seems like a bit of a free day off to me (which I don't think seems too bad) but you'd be surprised at how annoyed the military personnel seem to be by this lack of productivity. Instead of gloating about shorter Fridays, they are frustrated by the inability to work. Pretty impressive!
I've been amazed at how little people in our community have been complaining. It doesn't mean it isn't tough. I know of stay-at-home parents who have been forced to find part-time jobs, people are dipping into their emergency funds, 401K contributions are often halted or decreased, kids have been pulled out of camps, activities, and preschool for the fall. Thankfully, it seems as though most people I know have been able to make these "small" sacrifices without feeling like they are risk to lose their homes or something much more catastrophic.
The general attitude seems to be that we'll just suck it up until the end of the fiscal year. If the lovely government decides to extend it to 2014 you can believe there will be more complaining for the middle class workers who have been dinged.
We've lived in a military community for 2.5 years now and for the 3.5 years before that, while living in NOVA, Victor was working at the Pentagon as an active duty Naval officer. So after almost 6 years out here (hard to believe) I forget how little the rest of the nation is impacted by government and military decisions.
I wanted to post this not to complain about it but just to remind the people reading this (most who are not impacted by this recent furlough) that this furlough deeply impacts hundreds of thousands of middle class employees. Clearly, the nation has continued to march forward but a lot of hard working people are making big sacrifices.
On a different note living in a military community has been one of the best experiences of my life. Again, being from the midwest, it is so easy to forget that many families are making huge sacrifices over and over again because they are in the military. Most, if not all, of my military friends have endured 1 or more deployments. In addition to that they move every two to three years, with very little input into where they are headed. Often the military spouse works long hours and travels. The spouses left at home to manage a job, house, kids, and pets never cease to amaze me. They complain so much less than they should! Are there perks? Of course! They get paid well, they get to see lots of different parts of the nation/world, and the military employees have pretty neat and important jobs. But it is not without sacrifice and I hope that I never forget that!
Lastly, military "wives" are some of the best friends you could ever ask for. They are always willing to help out (because someone has helped them out before), they embrace friendship intensely no matter how long you/they will be in the area, and they are tough (when you are forced to be a single parent repeatedly not much can slow you down).
So that's it - I hope those reading this will take a second to think about what it would be like to suddenly lose 20% of your salary through no fault of your own (obviously lots of people can relate to losing a job/part of their income but I'd guess most people reading this can't). Also, spend a second being grateful for the hard working military families that sacrifice daily to help keep this country safe.
Speed Up, Slow Down - Here's comes kindergarten
I am very tired of being pregnant. While we have almost nothing ready for the baby (sorry #4) I would be thrilled if I were full term (37 weeks) now instead of at the end of August. So in that regard I really would like the month of August to speed up. :)
On the other hand, Erik is only two weeks away from going to kindergarten! All day, every day for 180 days he will be gone from 9:00 to 4:00. That is very difficult for me to think about. He went to one week of all day camp this summer and I had to remind myself over and over that he was fine and I didn't need to go get him early. :) Thinking about him being on that schedule M-F for 9 months makes me sad and a little anxious. He will be fine. In fact, I think he'll love school. But it will be a big transition for us both. Coming up on this milestone makes me extra thankful I took 5 years off of work completely. Working part-time doesn't feel like a big sacrifice in regards to parenting/spending time with my kids. It just reminds me how fortunate I am to have been able/willing to spend so much of my time with them (even when I want to pull my hair out because they are ...... again).
All day school poses another issue. Selfishly, because I have a helpful husband, I've often been able to go to the gym or take a walk around 6:00 pm 2-3 times a week while Victor plays with the kids and does baths. Basically, once Victor gets home I can kind of shut off from primary parent mode (taking over as the assistant). Well, now that Erik will be gone all day, I just don't think that's a great idea! So this fall I be adjusting to a newborn, a first born going to all day kindergarten, and needing to figure out a different way to fit in exercise/me time (this is extra tricky because I don't want to stick a newborn in a germ factory aka gym daycare. Exercise/fitness is important to me not only feel makes me feel better, it also makes me a nicer person.). Sound overwhelming to you?! It does to me. :) So, in that regard I really really want the month of August to crawl by. Ha!
Most days the desire to not be pregnant any longer wins out! (Just to clarify I am not wishing for a preemie I just don't enjoy the span from 33-37 weeks of pregnancy very much.)
On the other hand, Erik is only two weeks away from going to kindergarten! All day, every day for 180 days he will be gone from 9:00 to 4:00. That is very difficult for me to think about. He went to one week of all day camp this summer and I had to remind myself over and over that he was fine and I didn't need to go get him early. :) Thinking about him being on that schedule M-F for 9 months makes me sad and a little anxious. He will be fine. In fact, I think he'll love school. But it will be a big transition for us both. Coming up on this milestone makes me extra thankful I took 5 years off of work completely. Working part-time doesn't feel like a big sacrifice in regards to parenting/spending time with my kids. It just reminds me how fortunate I am to have been able/willing to spend so much of my time with them (even when I want to pull my hair out because they are ...... again).
All day school poses another issue. Selfishly, because I have a helpful husband, I've often been able to go to the gym or take a walk around 6:00 pm 2-3 times a week while Victor plays with the kids and does baths. Basically, once Victor gets home I can kind of shut off from primary parent mode (taking over as the assistant). Well, now that Erik will be gone all day, I just don't think that's a great idea! So this fall I be adjusting to a newborn, a first born going to all day kindergarten, and needing to figure out a different way to fit in exercise/me time (this is extra tricky because I don't want to stick a newborn in a germ factory aka gym daycare. Exercise/fitness is important to me not only feel makes me feel better, it also makes me a nicer person.). Sound overwhelming to you?! It does to me. :) So, in that regard I really really want the month of August to crawl by. Ha!
Most days the desire to not be pregnant any longer wins out! (Just to clarify I am not wishing for a preemie I just don't enjoy the span from 33-37 weeks of pregnancy very much.)
Sunday, August 4, 2013
Joy Project
232) Beautiful weather - this summer has been the mildest since we first moved to the DC area (2007). It's been in the 80's with only mild humidity for all but 2-3 weeks. Quite amazing.
233) Unstructured time with my kids. This summer has been busy. We went to WI immediately after school was out. We had a few days of nothing after that but then the next 4-5 weeks involved a lot of 1/2 day camps/VBS. Plus I've been working 2 days week instead of one. Last week and the next two weeks before school starts (only 2 more weeks - can you believe it!) we've had a lot more free time (although I'm still working 2 days a week). I'm so thankful for that - it's been a wonderful way to wrap up the summer. Some of the things we've done include - a hike, trips to playgrounds, board games, bike rides, trip to the library, microwaving soap (thanks to pinterest and Kristal), baked cookies, played with friends, etc. We've done those things all summer but they've been less hurried this week which was nice.
233) Unstructured time with my kids. This summer has been busy. We went to WI immediately after school was out. We had a few days of nothing after that but then the next 4-5 weeks involved a lot of 1/2 day camps/VBS. Plus I've been working 2 days week instead of one. Last week and the next two weeks before school starts (only 2 more weeks - can you believe it!) we've had a lot more free time (although I'm still working 2 days a week). I'm so thankful for that - it's been a wonderful way to wrap up the summer. Some of the things we've done include - a hike, trips to playgrounds, board games, bike rides, trip to the library, microwaving soap (thanks to pinterest and Kristal), baked cookies, played with friends, etc. We've done those things all summer but they've been less hurried this week which was nice.
Pausing on our 4 mile hike
Erik walked the whole way happily
Lainey made it for close to 3 miles - I was shocked and proud!
Erik was the best big brother during the hike.
When Lainey started to get tired he would hold her hand, tell her a joke to make
her laugh, or "race" her so she'd forget she was tired. (Unprompted by me!)
I usually walked ahead of them, but he would not leave her side.
It was really sweet.
Line up shot at the playground post-hike
3 tired and hungry kids
234) Good friends - mine this time! Completely unexpected my friend Laura asked me if she could organize a brunch/small shower for baby #4. We are excited to meet our little guy but by baby #4 not even an ounce of me expected to have any kind of shower. I'm so touched that she thought to organize a get together. (It will be over Labor Day weekend when I am 37 weeks. - Ha!)
235) One on one time with all my kiddos. During the past month I've been able to take each kid out separately. Erik and I went out to dinner. Lainey went to my OB appointment with me, visited a friend up in the DC area and out to dinner. Carson and I went on a "toffee" date and got groceries together. I think each kid enjoyed their time with my full attention. I had a lot of fun too.
Kids don't come much cuter than this little guy, do they?
I know they don't come much happier.
He is such a sweet, fun little guy.
Lainey, drawing a horse, on our date. :)
She's such a big kid now!
She is very easy to take places and fun to be with.
Erik's always been my little buddy.
He has a very tender heart but has reached an age
where defiance seems to be more common that it was a year ago.
The date with him seemed especially beneficial for both of us.
Now I need to arrange a date with my husband before baby #4 arrives.
236) Family trip to Kings Dominion - separate post coming on that later
I have a list in my head of things I want to write about. They include... the furlough (we are living on 80% of Victor's salary now - fun times!), kindergarten, and the day trip to Kings Dominion. Look for those posts in the next few days.
Meanwhile, what brought you joy this week?!
Thursday, August 1, 2013
Budding Artist
Erik has never been very interested in coloring. This summer though he's shown quite a bit of interest in drawing and little art projects (almost all of them have a star wars theme). This has all been self generated as I am the least artsy person you could possibly meet.
Today, while at the library I found some drawing books for him. He spent an hour looking at them and drawing some pretty neat pictures. Here is a sample....
Today, while at the library I found some drawing books for him. He spent an hour looking at them and drawing some pretty neat pictures. Here is a sample....
I'm quite impressed!
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