What Is This Mom Thing???

Resolutions? Maybe

2012-01-03T07:22:00.003-05:00

OK. So, you see, this post was to be about my New Year's Resolutions. However, I think calling them that tends to make people fail almost right away. So.......We will call this my To-Do List for 2012. I LOVE To-Do lists. Honestly, I live by them. I love checking things off as I get them done, I feel I've accomplished something, so let's hope I accomplish alot this year:)
Write Dax more regularly, at least once a week. I love my brother something fierce, but life seems to happen around me and I can't get away from it. I need to be more mindful of sitting down and writing to him. He needs my love and support and gosh darnnet he will get it! I really enjoy writing to him to, we've had better conversations over the past year than we've had in the past 10 years. This is a VERY good thing, especially since we have now lost both our Mother and our Father.
Update Blog. Really, I've already said this, but it bears repeating. I have family members and friends who read this to catch up on the family and to see pictures and whatnot. I'm not going to put a number on how often, but will try for once a week or so. We'll see what happens.
Work out 3-4 times a week. I'm doing this now, but I have to step it up a little, push myself a little more each week. I know my pain level and I know my pain limit. For those of you who don't know about Rheumatoid Arthritis, I can't subscribe to the "No Pain No Gain" theory. For me, that would be just plain dumb. I can work until the pain is there, but not go further. However, I can work until I'm exhausted beyond reason, just have to watch the pain level. I know that. Good thing to know:)
Write in Journal 3-4 times a week. This isn't too hard, but I do need to make it happen. I feel better when I do this. Even if one day is just a phrase or verse or something of that nature.
Better Track of Finances. This is always one we try for, and we do well, but not well enough.
Scrapbook at least once a week. I used to scrapbook all the time. I have fallen woefully behind. So, I'm gonna get moving and get up to date. I really need to do this a few times a week, so I will say once a week, but try for much more:)
Learn more about Asperger's, Autism and ADHD. I've read huge amounts on all of these, but the more information, the better. Michael is doing so well and I want to make sure all of us continue in that manner.
Eat better. That's all there really is to say about that.
Drink more water. I drink about 120 ounces a day, but I want to drink even more. Water will help get rid of water retention, even that water retention brought on by prednisone. Grrrrrr prednisone!
Visit out of town family more. Last year we weren't able to take hardly any optional family gatherings. We took some for Dad's funeral and wrapping stuff up with that, but that was it. All of that was because of various health issues with me. This year will be much better and we will visit much more!
On another note: we had a great family visit with Geoff's family over Christmas break. We left for St. Louis on Dec. 23rd and came home on Jan. 1st. Got to see all of Geoff's siblings and most of his aunt's and cousins. It was a never-ending blur of busyness and chaos, but it was pretty much great. Michael got to spend time with his first first cousin on Geoff's side and reacted in just the way a boy should react to a girl five years his junior. He showed her some things and maintained his distance. It was fun to watch!
Now we're home and sorting through many many piles. I'll write more and post pics when we get through those:)

GAH!

2011-12-13T11:26:00.002-05:00

I keep saying I will update more regularly. I will. I promise. Maybe.
I'm thinking alot about everything that's come and gone this past year, and am trying not to dwell, but it's kinda hard this time of year. Alot of reflection, unfortunately most of it not good. So I'm gonna write it all here and try to "throw it out the door" (Michael's old speech pathologist used to use that saying when trying to rid Michael of his poor speech patterns:)I have also had tons of great things occur this year too, so I will try to list some those as well.
At the beginning of the year (January 6ish)Michael was officially (after rounds of evaluations and doctor appointments) diagnosed with ADHD with a little oppositional defiant disorder thrown in for good measure. While this diagnosis wasn't a huge surprise, it was a huge shock to actually read and hear it. While we had already read quite a few books about ADHD, we began reading alot more. We're all working with it now and doing remarkably well.
Soon thereafter, my brother got in some bad trouble with the law, and was sentenced to 10 years in prison.
February 24th marked the 4 year anniversary of my mother's death.
On March 18th, my father passed away due to a drug overdose.
In May, we discovered that Michael also has a mild form of Asperger's Syndrome. Another thing we had researched and continue to research.
Through everything, I was dealing with extra doctor appointments myself. My left arm has been tingling and numb and my right knee was in so much pain, I had to resort to the use of a cane. After many appointments and much physical therapy, no news on the arm. The knee, however, was deemed operable. In mid-September I had an arthroscopic Synovectomy and a Chondroplasty done. The recuperation has been long, due to the fact that I have very little in the way of healing capabilities, but it's coming along nicely. My Mother -in-Law was able to come up from Arkansas to help out right after the surgery. She was such a HUGE help and I am very thankful for her and my father in law. They made a visit to us three times this year (including the surgery).
In July, I fractured my left foot again. It hadn't fractured since the surgery in 2005, but since I was favoring my right side, my left had to take up the slack. I spent about three months (including the time I had my knee surgery) in a surgical shoe and/or removable cast (the boot).
During the entire year, we had to hold of on family trips due to my knee. So we're very greatful that we're finally able to become fairly active again:)
So, now it's December and all is quiet in the house. Getting ready for Christmas and doing all sorts of normal stuff with that. We're a little harried around here, but all is good.
We get to go to St. Louis for Christmas and get to see, hopefully, the entire family. Michael is counting down the days until we get to leave!
I'm busy making Christmas gifts and cookies and having a pretty good time doing that too!
This coming year is already looking great!!!

Tomorrow, Tomorrow, I Love Ya Tomorrow, You're Alway's a Day Away!!

2011-09-08T09:00:00.003-04:00

I have always been a fan of the movie "Annie". I haven't had the opportunity to see the play, but if I get the chance, I'll be all over that. Even as a child, Annie's optimism amazed me. I was six when the movie came out, and I had never known that kind of optimism. My world always seemed kinda gloomy and I was always waiting for the next shoe to drop, so to speak. At six, I was in the middle of a long series of testing that would go on for another two years before I ever got a diagnosis of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. Watching Annie, who didn't have a home (orphanage does not count), who didn't have a family, who didn't have anything, made me feel a little like a schmuck, even at six. I had a roof over my head, a mother who adored me and would do ANYTHING for me, a brother who could be tolerated, and an extended family that helped us as much as they could. So what if I had a father who was never around, and when he was, he was a mean drunk, so what if I was in pain and nobody knew the reason why, so what if my brother was a typical brother and picked on me all the time. Compared to Annie, I had it good.
Times changed, I've gone through times of major pessimism where everyone around me wanted to shoot me. I've gone through times of great optimism, where again, everyone wanted to shoot me. On the whole, I think I'm an optimist. Although, I'm very sarcastic by nature (did you ever meet my Mom? I come by it honestly:), so i think some people still think I'm a pessimist. And when people ask me how I am, I tend to give it to them straight. And since, I'm not all that healthy right now, it doesn't sound so great. But I'm not good a sugarcoating, and i won't try to be good at it, I don't have time.
I will tell you this. I KNOW I am blessed. Doctor's told be when I was eight that I probably would not be walking when I was 12. I'm 35 and still walking. With alot of pain, but still walking. I was told that I may not be able to have kids because of all the experimental stuff I've been on (most of which is no longer experimental, but in use), I have a beautiful biological son who melts my heart almost every time I look at him. When I was in my early teens, I thought I would never get married, who would want to put up with all this? My husband, Geoff, is the most amazing man ever. really. We've been married just over nine years and have been together for about 12 years. I have better in-laws than most people could ever dream of. We own a condo (although it is in Chicago and we're in Syracuse). See, extremely blessed.
I'm getting into this because, as noted in previous posts, I'm having surgery tomorrow. I'm excited about this surgery, but not necessarily about the outcome. Heck, the doc isn't even all that optimistic, and he's and incredibly optimistic guy. I'm excited because I know, even if it doesn't take away the pain, it puts me that much closer to a total knee replacement. I've known this was going to happen since I was eight. So I've been able to hold it off for a long time. And I'm VERY optimistic about what a replacement could do for me:)
So tomorrow, please send and prayers and happy thoughts my way. All are needed and greatly appreciated.
Less than 24 hours to go!!!!!

The Great American Knee Surgery of 2011 and Other Amazing Things

2011-09-05T10:50:00.005-04:00

I'm just writing to keep everyone updated on our life here in the great Northeastern United States. Of course that's why I'm writing. Why else would I be writing. Oh well...
Currently I'm getting ready for the Great Arthroscopic Knee Surgery of 2011 (that's really what i'm gonna start calling it:) I'm making lists right now. Shopping lists, to do lists, Michael lists, Geoff lists and, of course, Daina lists. I do love my lists. I feel awesome when I get to check something off mys lists, and they are quite long right now...
On that note. Does anyone have any great things one should have by their side during recovery from such an operation? Any tips or tricks for manneuvering through the day with and even more bum knee? Any and all suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
I'm hoping to get a video of my surgery, not sure if that would happen, but it would be neat. if I do get one, it will be posted here, just a warning:)
Michael starts school tomorrow, and while I'm a bit nervous for him, I'm extremely excited, for him and me!!He's got a great team working with him this year and I'm looking forward to working with them all! My friend Brandi will be picking him up from the apart and taking him to the bus if I can't (she's pretty awesome). Of course, Mom will do it while she's here. I've got a wonderful prayer team (thank you!!!!)and a wonderful support group of friends and family (thank you too!!!!).
I should have an infusion this week, but because of the GAKS (yay the acronym is GAKS!! How awesome is that??) I will not have it until the 22nd. The last week is always hard, think it will be harder now. My fingers are swollen and I'm gonna have to do some fancy manneuvering to get my rings off my finger, but this will work!!!I have four doc appts this week (not including the GAKS) and an appointment with two of Michael's teachers. Busy busy busy!! See why my lists are important?
Last week we had Maw Maw and Paw Paw in for 6 days!!!!So much fun and so busy. The day they left I started with a fever and slept for two days. But on the upswing now.
We went to the fair, and to Dinosaur BBQ, and to Southwick Beach, and they took Michael miniature golfing while I had a doc appt, and Mom and I did a puzzle (actually, finished one we started when they were up here in April. i have one of those things that role puzzles up, so i had saved it for the next time we were together:). Mom and I went to the brand spanking new Hobby Lobby just up the street from us in Fayetteville. Annnnnnddddd we removed Michael's training wheels!!He's been able to ride without them for quite some time, but he refused, but he finally agreed:) All in all had a great time. We LOVE having them visit, especially since we know how hard it is for Dad to get away, such a blessing!

Some cuddle time with Michael and Paw Paw

Removing the training wheels, he's soooo big!!

First war wound. he handled it well and got right back on the bike after being given the band aid (it was pretty gross:(

Mom is coming back up on Sunday the 11th to take care of the boy and I after my surgery, so geoff doesn't have to take alot of time off work. Hopefully we'll have an extended Holiday this year with family, since we've missed out on so much because of my knee and not knowing what was going on with it. LOVE my husbands family!!!!I really cannot stress that enough!!

Arthroscopic Synovetomy with Video:)

2011-08-25T11:52:00.003-04:00

This is what they will be doing to me on September 9th 2011, as long as my ekg looks good. My ekg is on Aug 31st. I'm super excited but getting a little nervous. So please pray or send happy thoughts or just some extra loving my way. All is greatly appreciated and always welcome:)
The surgeon will also be looking at a possible meniscus tear and a baker's cyst.
I'm wondering if I will get a video of my surgery?!?!?

Finally an Update

2011-08-18T12:02:00.005-04:00

Now, I'm really updating. First off, I'm bored. And tired. And tired of being bored. Just sayin.

The man-child, aka Michael, aka the monster, is doing quite well. Though he is bored too. He's super excited to start school again and that he gets to eat lunch at school now. I'm obviously nervous about him eating lunch at school because of his eating habits, or the fact that he doesn't enjoy eating, whatever you choose.

For those of you who don't know.....He got a formal diagnoses of ADHD in January and then a formal diagnoses of Asperger's in April. We've spent the last eight months getting used to a little different way of doing things. Since we've known about the Sensory Modulation Disorder for years now, we really haven't changed all that much. We're all adapting. It really helps that he is such a loving, giving child. He is sooooooo smart. he really cracks people up with how he phrases things. He said yesterday to his babysitter " this doesn't work well on rough surfaces". She got a real kick out of that. It's just not how a six year old would phrase things.

He's doing great with his reading, although he does get frustrated. He wants to do everything right the first time. When that doesn't happen, he gets mad at himself. but we're working on that:)

We've had a pretty good summer, all things considered. No camping this year though, which kinda sucks. Next year. Next year we will camp. Even if I have to spend ALL my time at the camp site and not see anything else. But we've gone to the beach alot and we've visited with friends, so it's been good. We've had to hold off on trips to St. Louis and Little Rock because of threat of surgery for me. But more about that in a moment. Here are some pics of visits and such:)

Maw Maw and Paw Paw will be coming up next week to go to the fair with us and visit the monster. They'll be here for a week and we always have a great time with them:)

Geoff is still loving his job, though summer is a very busy time for him. Lots of late nights, but we know that's temporary. He still likes being up here in the great North. We haven't sold our condo yet, but we do have an amazing renter in it, so lots of it is paid for, we're very thankful for that.

We've found a church that we like that has a great program for kids and offers buddies for kids with special needs. So we're really liking that:)

I am having an arthroscopic synovectomy on Sept. 9th at 8:45am. The doc will go in and shave the lining of my joint out. he will also be looking at a slight tear in the meniscus and a bakers cyst while he's in there, so those might get fixed too. I would much rather get a total replacement. it's been a year and a half since this right knee has worked to my normal ability. Not yours, mine. Mom will be coming up for a while after the surgery to help around the house and drive us to appointments and to play with Michael while I'm laid up. I LOVE my in-laws!!!!!!!

So, there's the scoop....Maybe I will actually write more. If I had a lap top it would be easier...

For RAWarrior and Everyone Else Who Requested That I Update Again

2011-08-09T08:05:00.007-04:00

Ok. So I may have lied a little when I said I would start posting again. I've had a crappy year and a half and have had very little good to write about, so I chose not to write. In retrospect we also had quite a few blessings as well, but you know how it is when you're going through the crappy stuff. This here blog post is gonna be about Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and pain relief. A blogger that I greatly respect posted this blog http://http://rawarrior.com/rheumatoid-arthritis-pain-relief-what-do-you-know/ to ask about doctors and pain relief for people with RA. Since above stated crappy year was due, largely in part, to pain problems associated with my RA, I thought I should jump back on the horse, or bicycle, or whatever. I will be posting more about my wonderful boys later. Promise. Again.
RAWarrior asked a few questions about RA and pain relief in her blog. So I'm just gonna copy those questions the answer them. Sounds simple, let's see if I can do this.

1. Do people have sufficient pain relief? Are medications sufficiently prescribed? Do they work?

Those of you who know what I've been going through already know the answer to this. NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!. In HUGE CAPS and many exclamation points. I am in pain throughout the day and night and yet have been told I'm not in an RA flare, but a fibromyalgia flare. However, feels like both to me. I am on pain meds would feel like without anything. Have SERIOUSLY considered within the past six months, quitting everything, infusions, prednisone, methotrexate.......everything but the vitamins. But once again, if I feel this crummy on stuff, how am I gonna feel off stuff?

2. Which doctors prescribe medications for Rheumatoid Arthritis pain relief? Pain management specialists? Rheumatologist practices? General practitioners?

My Rheumatologist prescribes pain relief meds, though I'm trying to find a RELIABLE pain management specialist. The one I saw for my arm that has been numb for 4 months said the same thing I've been getting from alot of specialists lately. I shouldn't be feeling this way. The drugs and therapy I'm on should be helping, but she gave no indication as to why I am and why they're not.

3. Which methods of Rheumatoid Arthritis pain relief work? Eastern medicine like acupuncture? Spiritual techniques like meditation? Traditional physical methods like heat, ice, or rest?

I have have not tried acupuncture, but am currently doing some research on it. Something has to work, right? Meditation and prayer helps my mindset about the pain, but doesn't help the pain. So, it does do something, I guess. I've been told no Heat, but heat makes it feel better for a while, but then it hurts worse. Ice actually causes me great pain (am I the only one??). Rest helps the fibromyalgia, but since I still have severe morning stiffness and soreness (yes, even after an afternoon nap), I don't think it helps with the RA. Plus, since I have a 6 yr old with special needs, rest is kinda hard to come by during the day when he's home..

OK. That's about all folks:) I have an infusion on Thursday and my arthroscopic synovectomy on my right knee will probably be on the 10th of September (waiting for Michael's first week of school).

Seriously?

2010-01-04T12:01:00.002-05:00

So, it's been six months since I posted. I will do better this year, starting now!
I started a new infusion treatment last month. instead of Remicade, I'm now on Orencia. So far, it's working much better and I'm highly optimistic, so please keep up the prayers and good thoughts, we all know I need them:)
Michael started pre-school last fall and he LOVES it! He's learning so fast and is an extremely social creature. He goes three days a week for three hours a day. He actually cries when he doesn't get to go and doesn't want to leave when I go to pick him up. I really can't wait for him to start kindergarten!
So much more is going on, but those are the big things. Geoff still loves his job and I still hate the snow, but I do like this area of the country alot. We did some camping at the end of the summer last year, and we plan on doing alot more this year, as long as my health holds up, we're good to go.
I plan to update this blog more often with more pictures this year, so keep on looking:)

What's going on now????

2009-07-01T07:42:00.002-04:00

Hello All!
All tests have come back great!!!!The mass on my Thymus appears to be part of the Thymus itself turning into fatty tissue (which is what it's supposed to do:). The results weren't actually inconclusive, the nurse gave me the wrong answer. the doc just wanted to see me to go over ALL the test results from the last couple months. I have to get another MRI in about 6 months, just as a followup, but all looks good!!!!!
We're going to Ocean City this weekend, so I'll come back with plenty of pics:)

Good News! I DO NOT HAVE LUNG CANCER!!!!

2009-06-12T07:02:00.005-04:00

This will be a good news, still don't know news, and extra cute pics entry.

Seriously. I don't have Lung Cancer, that is VERY good news. The nodules on my lungs are just scar tissue. They still want a followup CT in 8 months, but nothing to worry about. When I had that bout with pleurisy so long ago, it left lots of little scars on my lungs, so that's what the unidentified objects are:)

Problem: when they did the CT on my lungs, they found a "mass" on my Thymus gland. They wanted an MRI on that. I waited on another approval from the insurance company. I had the first MRI on Tuesday (today is Friday). They called me back in for more views later on Tuesday, but because I have a son and am his sole caretaker during the day, I couldn't make it back in until yesterday. Went in yesterday for the extra views. The doc called yesterday at around four to tell me the results are "inconclusive". She wants to see me in her office and I have an appointment first thing Monday morning. After talking to a couple nurse friends of mine, they told me that she'll probably refer me to someone for a biopsy, but we can't be sure until Monday.

For those of you who don't know (I didn't until a couple weeks ago), the Thymus is a gland that helps the immune system until your out of puberty, then it does nothing but shrink until it's nothing but fat (when you're about 60). So the gland itself isn't all that important, or is it????Remember, I said helps the immune system. Does everyone remember that MY immune system has always worked AGAINST my body instead of for it? That's what Rheumatoid Arthritis does, that's its job.Anyway, people who get masses on their Thymus gland generally have, or end up with, an autoimmune disease. Yay Me!!!!! So, could be something bad, could just be nothing. If it's something bad, they'll just take out the entire thymus, they don't mess around with just removing the mass, the thymus is too small and it doesn't do anything. So, still alot of speculation right now. But I feel fine, except for the fact that I haven had a remicade infusion in about four weeks, so I feel like I have arthritis, but my "spa day" is next Thursday, and then I will feel much better:)

OK, and because these were too cute to pass up, here's a few pis of my Boy (or boy's or friend and boy....)

Michael and Geoff with a sign that says "(I'm cute, but I may have rabies" PERFECT!!

Michael and our good friend Marcia roughhousing in the tee-pee. They don't look like their very happy, Do they?(Insert sarcasm..)This was up at Mexico point, so beautiful and Marcia was an excellent tour guide!!

And last but not least. Michael has been given ALOT of Time-Outs lately. Here's one when we were on a fishing trip. He decided to run into the woods.....

OK. That's it for now. Will definitely update after my appointment on Monday. Plus, I'm sure we'll make it to a fun park or something this weekend...

I'm a square

2009-05-27T22:31:00.003-04:00

So, this is the afghan Christina and I crocheted for our wonderful Mother in Law. I'm pretty sure she liked it, though I was the first to nap with it:)

Pictures and updates

2009-05-22T07:56:00.005-04:00

First, let me say this. It's not my fault. It is not my fault that the doctor didn't send in for the pre-approval for the chest CT when he was supposed to. It is not my fault that the pre-approval has not been received yet. So....it is not my fault that I have NOT had the chest CT yet. Still working on that, it will be a relief to get that over with..

Below are some pictures of our fishing trip to northern Arkansas. Every person in the pic was with us for our three day fishing trip. All Geoff's siblings and their significant others. Geoff's Mom, Dad, Grandfather, Aunt and Uncle and their children. Plus, the three of us and Nora (Christina's Mom). It was a HUGE cabin and we all had a great time!!!!

This was taken after the second day of fishing. Check out those fish eyes:)

While we were at Maw Maw and Paw Paw's house in Little Rock, Michael decided he was ready to start using the potty for everything and made us all very proud:) As his special present, he requested a ride on Paw Paw's tractor. Ask and you shall receive:)

He actually took quite a few trips on that tractor after this. He went for rides with Alison, Jeremy and Geoff too:)

When we got home and I had the kidney stones, Geoff decided I needed some cheering up, so he planted a pretty little garden in our from patch of dirt. I think it looks lovely! The stuff in the little pots is some Yellow Moss that came home with us from Arkansas. It doesn't look very good in this pic, but it is finally starting to look alive! He also planted the two hanging plants.

We also have some tomatoes and other flowers growing in the back in some pots (more sun back there) but there's not much to see yet...

We went for a bike ride this weekend, all three of us had a great time!! There's lots of place to go bike riding around here and Michael is loving the family time outside on his bike.

We went fishing last weekend, but none of us caught anything. Hopefully we'll find someplace good to go fishing soon.

It's Tuesday and I'm back to the normal routine. Hope all is well!

Over a month?????

2009-05-13T10:36:00.002-04:00

OK, we went to Little Rock and had a great time. Such a huge loving family all under one roof. Luckily, it's a big roof, so it wasn't too crowded. We went fishing in Northern AR on the White River and I enjoyed myself and learned to fish a little and can't wait to do some of that here!! I'll post pics of that very soon!
About four days after returning home I was taken to the emergency room. Go figure. Kidney Stones AGAIN!!!! OK, so it's been four years since the last one, but that really wasn't long enough! After 4 trips to the ER and 3 CT scans and two X-Rays and a couple ultrasounds, I am finally feeling better and able to move, That was two and a half weeks go and I just started feeling better this past weekend, which is why I've been absent.
With all those CTs we found I had more stones, they're just resting there, so I'm waiting for another Bomb to blow. They also found a number of "Pulmonary Nodules" . The bottom of my lungs showed up in the abdominal CT and showed a lot of little bumps on it. So, now I get to go in for a CT of my chest. We'll see how that goes. I thought that would be tomorrow, but now it might not be until next week. Pray.....
Other than that, we're doing well here. Geoff planted me a little garden of plants while I was sick and a couple of hanging baskets. Geoff did the housework and the cooking and most of the caring for the child. So I think he should get a good fathers day gift...
I will post pics of the trip and the garden once everything is downloaded

It's Been Awhile

2009-04-08T08:23:00.003-04:00

Sorry about the lack of updating, been a little busy, and a little down, so I didn't feel like writing. I am back in the mood now! It's been a busy month and a half, here's the rundown:

I turned 33 on March 1st. woo-hoo. Geoff made me a nice dinner, my "new" camera was my birthday gift:)

We had snow in March, I'm pretty sure we had snow on the first day of spring. I CANNOT wait till spring REALLY starts!

We found a pre-school program for Michael to start in the fall.

Michael has been re-evaluated for speech therapy and occupational therapy, looks like he'll get both of those next year.

We had a visit from Jen-Jen and Mike. Had a wonderful time at the MOST and Michael is still talking about his "favorite cousin" (she bribes him:)
Michael turned four on April first. We made cupcakes with blue icing and had dinner at a restaurant. Fun was had by all!!

On April 3rd, I got a car!!!!!!!!It's been a year since we moved up here and we've had only one car between us, so I was a little stuck out here when Geoff was at work. I'm not anymore!!It's a 2003 Saturn L200 and it only had 33,000 miles on it.

We had a really warm day here a couple weeks ago, we were able to go to the park and climb. Then we had snow again and the deer came back, on our side of the fence this time! We have birds in each one of our birdhouses this year. I love watching them, can't wait to see babies!!

We leave for Little Rock tomorrow, we are all looking forward to it:) Will come back with more pics:)

The house hasn't sold yet, but there has been more activity on it, so keep praying!

Today Will Be Over Soon

2009-02-24T11:33:00.003-05:00

Ok, had a checkup. My Blood Pressure was 143 over 93. Seriously, hasn't been this high since that infamous Kidney Stone right after Michael was born. But really, I think it's to be expected. I am in pain, and today is the two year anniversary of Mom's passing. I'm really a little surprised I'm as composed as I am.

Boys Are Funny and I Need To Get Out Of The House

2009-02-17T08:34:00.007-05:00

So, potty training is going well. He still has accidents, but he's doing #1 and #2 in the potty most of the time. He has taken to hating clothes when we're in the house, so I'm getting alot of good pics of the boy in his underpants!! Santa had sent a present for Michael to open once he was using the potty, he sent CARS underpants!!! I thought Michael was going to have a little heart attack he was so excited!!!!

We made Valentine's Cookies last Thursday and Michael had a great time. Obviously, a little stressful to me, but he loved it!!!He was also easy to clean up, since all he was wearing was his underpants:)

This is a picture of Michael's first outing in big boy underpants. We went to the Post Office and then to the swan pond. It was actually 55 degrees outside. Now it's 23 degrees.....ugggggg And yes, that is ice around the fountain. I have no clue why they don't turn it off in the winter..

Our Valentine's Day weekend was terrific. We went out to a nice cheap dinner on Friday night, me and my boys. Michael is finally to a point where he does pretty well at a casual restaurant. Saturday, I woke up to Michael screaming "Happy Valentine's Day!!!" and Dunkin Donuts. The rest of the day was spent just hanging out around the house and playing. Geoff made a wonderful dinner of miniature gourmet cheeseburgers, crab cakes and hummus (he bought the hummus and I actually liked it, the first kind I've ever liked) and he made me strawberry shortcake for dessert. Sunday was more just hanging out and enjoying every one's company. We had a very nice weekend:) Can you tell my boys are happy? I love seeing them together like this, It seriously makes my heart melt!

We went to McDonald's yesterday to meet a new friend. it feels like I've known her forever and I can tell that we're going to be close. We had a great time watching Michael play in the playplace and chatting. It took about 5 minutes for Michael to warm up to Miss Marcia, but once he saw that she brought him trucks, he was hooked. he even woke up this morning saying we had to go visit Miss Marcia. So lovely when he likes someone!!!!!I meant to get pictures of the outing, but I got a little caught up, so I didn't get any. Next time I will, I promise:)

Last thing. Christina and I have been working on a crochet blocks blanket for our MIL since Christmas of 2007. I think we may actually finish it by our fishing trip this year. All that is left to do is connect the blocks....Here's what it looks like on my front room floor:)

Snow

2009-01-29T10:26:00.004-05:00

Just posting a few pictures of what the snow looks like here. I did get a new camera, I pretty much love it, it's just a point and shoot (of course, that DSLR will have to wait a few years...) but it works well. It's a Fujifilm (which is actually the very first brand of digital I ever got, it was a gift from Geoff's mom and dad and was a great camera...). So, took some pics and I'm still playing with it. Since we just got another big snow storm, I thought I would add some pics of that...

First, this is our neighbors back stoop. You can almost see it under the snow.

Here's Michael's old Fisher Price Slide and Jungle Gym (the pink and green thing under the giant ball)...

Here are just a couple of pics of my boys, being boys

And here are a few of the puzzles we've done lately. Seriously, I'm and addict. Luckily, friends have donated some...

And here's the Cardinal that caused my old camera to finally break. Actually, right after this one was taken, Michael stole my camera, ran into the kitchen and accidentally dropped said camera on the hard wood floor. Camera then died.....

Daina, You're Not In Chicago Anymore

2009-01-23T13:02:00.003-05:00

So. I went to my back door to look outside at all the marvelous snow (insert sarcasm). I saw snow. I also saw DEER!!!!Two of them. they were just hanging out, trying to find some green left on the trees or bushes. they're still there, napping. Of course, I had to get pictures. i think I'm in love:) I never would have thought I'd see a couple of deer in my backyard. These are the times I really enjoy living further out from the city....
Both of them are in this pic. You just need to look closely.

The next two are of the same deer. She came really close!

I also wanted everyone to see the massive icicles right outside our bedroom window. They've melted a little because we're having a heat wave. It's 38 degrees outside!!!

Hope all is well. Life is going on here. We've had a fun week and had a good play date yesterday. Now Michael keeps asking for his friend David:)

So true!

2009-01-20T14:42:00.004-05:00

A friend of mine e-mailed this to me. It is so awesome and definitely gives me a little validation:)

New Year's Resolutions

2009-01-19T15:14:00.005-05:00

Ok. Every Year I say that i won't make new year's resolutions. Seems to me, they always get broken. This year. I didn't make any resolutions, but I will be doing some things differently..

I will eat healthier. I would love to drop that prednisone weight, so I will try. I don't think I'm actually going to set a number goal though. I think that would mess me up.
Cutting WAAAAAAYYYYYY down on Soda. This was actually decided on by my beloved husband. I haven't had but one soda in the past week. At least the headaches are gone.
I will continue to try to find a job that will employ me working from my home. out of the home is close to impossible because of my health issues and the child.
I will read more this year. Last year I only read three books. I have NEVER read so little in my entire life. This year, I've already read 7. I may start listing them on the side, if anyone is interested.
Once the snow melts, I will walk more. I really cannot walk in three feet of snow.
I (we) will continue to try to sell our house in Chicago.
I will find new music I like. I am open to any and all suggestions. So bring em on!
I will make a conscious effort to keep in contact with my siblings and family and friends. that's harder than one would think.
Michael and I will get along better this year. Michael and I seem to share the same temperament. So that can blow up sometimes...
I will be more diligent with my bible study. I always feel better when I do it, I just need to be more disciplined.

I think that's it. And here's a picture of Michael to end this post. Geoff got it taken for my Christmas present this year. he's so cute!!!

Happy New Year!! And Merry Christmas!!

2009-01-08T13:28:00.014-05:00

Yes, I realize I'm a little late. I've been busy. I'm sorry. I have TONS of pictures to show everyone, but first, a little bit about our trip...

It started on Dec 22nd about 4:00pm. We should have known to just wait, but we were excited and wanted to see our family. So we left Syracuse in the middle of a HEAVY snow storm. According to the weather, we would be done with the storm by the time we hit Buffalo. It did get a little better, but by the time we got to Erie, PA we were on solid Ice, so we decided to stay there for the night. That meant our drive would be around 11 hours on Dec 23rd, instead of 9. OK. We could handle that.

We set out early on the 23rd. Good thing I've learned to pack a simple overnight bag, so all of our stuff (except for that) could stay in the car. Got gas and coffee and were on our way. Everything was smooth (a little slow at points, but smooth) until we got to Indianapolis. We had ice again. ALOT of it. BUT.........by the time we knew what we were going into, we had already passed the last exit for about 15 miles. From 5pm until around 1:30am we were stuck on highway 70. Mostly in completely stopped traffic. When it was going, very slippery, so only going about five MPH. We finally made it off the highway (along with everyone one else in the free world) and wouldn't you know it? All hotels booked solid. We couldn't get back on the highway, too slippery and Geoff and I had been up for about 20 hours driving and very sleepy. We told Michael we would have a BIG Adventure and we would sleep in the car. That's what we did. Pulled into the jammed packed parking lot of KFC. Turned of the lights. Locked the doors and slept (very uncomfortably) until about 5:30.

By 9:30 am on Christmas Eve, we were in St. Louis and very tired. But safe. All three of us took very long hot showers that morning and very long naps early that afternoon.

Ok. Done moaning about that part of our trip. the rest of it was fabulous (stave for lots of the family getting a stomach bug). Christmas Eve we did a big family gathering and did secret santa gifts with the family (we draw a name each year, it's alot of fun:)
Geoff made these Christmas Trees for Aunt Holly, his Secret Santa Recipient. He got orders from Mom for more. Guess we know what she's getting for Christmas next year:)

Christmas Day Santa came to Grandma's house. We were so happy he knew where to find Michael and Jessica and the other kiddos!), we went to the Stock's and played with the little ones and had great family conversation and that evening we were back at the Kleisly's for more family fun. Such a wonderful place to spend the Holiday!
Santa brought Michael another piece (huge piece) for his Thomas track. All that stuff came in one box:)

The day after Christmas, we all went to the City Museum in Downtown St. Louis. if you live close and haven't been there, GO. It's amazing, it's all made out of recycled or re-purposed stuff and there are tunnels and slides for kids of all ages. Even Mom and I made it down the 7 story slide. Thanks to Alison and the other kids Michael was able to do EVERYTHING!!!He had the best time. he went in the highest tunnels, inside and out. Aunt Ali had a heck of a time trying to keep up, but she did a really good job, despite all the bruises she acquired. I spent a good deal of time admiring the fantastic mosaics and sculptures. It really is an awesome adventure.
He fell asleep while we waited for everyone to finish their fun. He hasn't fallen asleep in my arms for a couple years, so I was pretty happy!

We all took a moment to kiss the frog on our way in. Our cousin, Corrinne Foster, passed away in April of 2004 and she worked there and loved it there. The frog was placed there in her memory and she is greatly missed.

Saturday we went ice skating (obviously, this is a royal "we", Daina doesn't do skates..) Michael had a blast, but Big Michael, Daddy and Aunt Alison got to get him around the rink. So comical and lovely!!!!

Sunday, we (Geoff and I in one car and Michael, Aunt Ali, Maw Maw and Paw Paw in the Suburban ahead of us) left for Little Rock. A very uneventful trip, thank goodness!!!

While in Little Rock, we spent lots of time relaxing with Michael's Aunts and Uncle and taking in the Scenery.We went to Pinnacle mountain and did a little "hiking" it was a good outing with both the Chocolate Lab (lottie) and the Yorkshire Terrior (Chelsea) in tow. Michael walked both dogs during the hike and had an awesome time. It was really hard keeping him off the giant rocks though:)

This picture is just for reference. I am actually this much taller than Geoff's sisters (and mother) I feel like a giant sometimes:)Then, Michael got a time-out. While at the mountain. Seriously.

On New Years Eve, we worked puzzles and drank Champagne and lit sparklers. It was very low key and very wonderful. Michael got to do a sparkler before he went to bed at about 8:30.

We left Little Rock on January 2nd and had another uneventful trip. Stayed over-night in Columbus and got to see Jamie for about an hour. Left Columbus at about 7 on the 3rd and Got home around 3. We've been trying to get settled back into a routine here, after being gone for two weeks are are gradually getting back to that.

I have an infusion next week. It's two weeks late because of vacations between my doctor and I, and I've been feeling that for about a week, so the next week won't be too much fun, but I'll probably get alot of reading done:)

Don't forget. Don't use the 708 area code cell phone number. No longer valid. If you didn't get my e-mail, e-mail me and I'll send you our new cell phone numbers:)

New Cell Phone Numbers!!!!!

2008-12-30T15:09:00.003-05:00

Hello and happy almost new year to everyone!!!
Geoff and I will both have new cell phones beginning the first of the year. Please STOP using the one with the 708 area code. Please e-mail me is you need them or if I forgot to add you to the list of people I e-mailed:)
Have a great NEW Year!

Snow Monsters

2008-12-19T13:16:00.003-05:00

So, we all know I craft. i craft more when it's cold. And more when it's cold and we need to make Christmas presents. So while the snow looks like this

(I know you can't see it well, but the snow if very steadily falling here) We're supposed to get around 10 inches by tonight. Michael and I walked to the ear doctors for a hearing evaluation (his hearing is perfect BTW) and there was an inch and a half on the ground when we came out of the office. The roads were already getting bad too, only going to get worse. So happy we got those snow tires!!!!!!

Anyway. I make these when I get bored. You might remember the ones I did last Christmas, well, there are new kids around us this Christmas, so new Monsters. I love making these things. it's just so nice to have them looking back up at you when you're sewing them together:) Michael has certainly gotten plenty of use out of his this past year....The little yellow one is for a 1 year old girl. The pink one is for a 5 yr old and the blue one is for a 2 year old boy. All new neighbors. i do hope they enjoy them:)

And for Michael? Monster PJ bottoms! I love this flannel fabric, though it did make me long for a serger, maybe after our house sells and we get a new house:)

Close up of one of the monsters..

That's really all that's going on in the Stock household. We're just about ready for Christmas! We leave on Monday when Geoff gets of work for St. Louis and Little Rock. So excited!!!!

If I don't write again....Merry Christmas!!!!!!

6 to 8 Black Men

2008-12-10T07:54:00.003-05:00

You NEED to watch this. Friggin Hilarious! I had never heard of this before, but David Sedaris makes it quite humorous:)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UCUHTDrca4s

A NIGHT OFF!!!!

2008-12-05T12:46:00.005-05:00

Who could ask for more. Tonight I'm driving to Buffalo to meet up with Jamie. She's there for the Nuttcracker and we'll have dinner and talk and be alone for the first time in FOREVER!!!It's about a two hour drive, and I get to do it all by MYSELF:) Listen to music and talk to myself and all by myself:) We all know how much I love my boys, but this is all so exciting!!!!

The other night we went to Lights on the Lake and had a great time. Two miles of Christmas lights, and my camera doesn't take pictures well at night while moving. You drive up Lake Onondaga and see the lake and the beautiful lights at the same time. Here's a pic that turned out "decent" just to give you a little hint.

A pic of Michael in the backseat, he loved the lights.

Afterward, we went to the Sainte Marie of the Iriquois Museum, there were trains

and Santa

That was as close as he would get. he wouldn't sit on his lap, but he did offer his lop-sided grin:)
And there were yarn spinners there. So gorgeous, but I didn't get any pics.....They also taught Geoff how to make a drop spindle, so maybe i'll get one of those for Christmas:)

We put up our Christmas tree. It's a little one this year, our big one doesn't fit in this apartmet, but here it is

And here's a close-up of the skirt. The Austin's made it for Geoff and I for our wedding. I love it so much!!!!

I had an infusion yesterday, not a minute too soon, but I feel pretty good today and they only had to stick me one. It was amazing, the very first poke and out came the blood and in went the saline and drugs!YAY!!!!!!

No News on the house yet, so keep praying, I hope I don't go crazy before all this is over....

When he was in the womb

2008-11-25T09:26:00.005-05:00

I think about this so often, but when Michael crawled his 41 pound self up on my lap this morning and said "scratch my back mommy" I instantly thought about it again. Michael likes to be scratched and rubbed, but only when he requests it. S I pretty much jump on the chance. While lightly scratching his back this morning, I took notice of his curving spine. That's the same spine that was curled up inside my womb. The legs that were beneath him. Those are the same legs that kicked the heck out of my ribs. His long body. That's the same body that would stretch so far that I thought he would break out. But now, now that's the curved spine that helps him do somersaults, those legs make him jump very far and very high and that stretch tells me he's tired.
I sometimes long for him to be back in the womb. To be able to protect him and make sure he gets the right things to eat. To make sure he doesn't jump off something to high, or get dropped on his head by his daddy (yes, that happened two weeks ago). He's growing at a speed I didn't think possible and I sometimes wish I had more control of it. But I don't. He is such a kind, loving, energetic boy, I'm glad I get to take care of him.

SNOW!!!!

2008-11-22T10:48:00.008-05:00

OK. Most of this post will be about snow. First, I want to tell you all about the love spoons. heather (a friend of mine who lives in Britain, who comments here often and who I am very glad to have met during the owl swap on Craftster) left this link http://www.thelovespoongallery.com/index.html in a comment. I love beutiful woodworking (probably because of Geoff, YAY) and these spoons range from simple to very intricate. Gorgeous work, and everyone should look at them. We all know I'm not a spoon collector, but these may change me, so look!!!! Thanks Heather!
OK, so yesterday we got around three or four inches of snow, so Michael and I went to feed the Ducks that haven't migrated. boy were they hungry. They really get a little forceful when it get colder, and the sea gulls get down right mean!

A dead frozen spider was on the bench. I hate spiders, but I had to take this picture:P

The Soccer field was full of geese.

And then Michael kept eating the snow. I warned him about yellow snow, but he's not a very good listener. He'll find out some day!
Maw-Maw made him that hat and it makes me so happy. He walks with a jump to his step, so the fringe bops up and down with him. he gets so many smiles from the passing by cars and people:)
Then, this morning at around 9am we went sledding. I woke up to the usual Michael jumping on me and telling me it's time to get up. Added to that was "It's time to go sledding Mommy!!Daddy and me made muffins and we're ready to go!!" He's so cute! But getting heavier by the day, and my back still isn't perfect, so it cause a little pain...oh wel, the price you pay!
This is what we had outside this morning and it was 15 degrees when we left the house

Michael and Daddy just before Michael's first time down the hill. This was his first time sledding and he loved every minute of it. Even the parts where he fell!!

Went down the hill alot!

Which meant Daddy had to go down and get him ALOT!

Geoff went down once by himself and had a little trouble...

I then went down, but Daddy very rarely takes pictures, so I escaped that humiliation:)
Then Daddy and Michael came down together

And we walked home

When we got home, we all stripped out of our coats and hats and gloves and Michael out of his snow pants. We're all warm and toasty now, and michael is begging for more:) He loves the snow, thank God, because if he didn't we might be in a little trouble. i think we're in a little trouble anyway:)
And yes, I woke up to fresh baked blueberry muffins. I love weekends!!

Giveaway!

2008-11-20T10:32:00.002-05:00

OK. There's a give-away going on over at The Work at Home Designs Blog http://workathomedesigns.blogspot.com/2008/11/win-it-wednesday-our-second-giveaway.html They're giving away fabulous Mushrooms from Mushroom Delight http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5097981. So cute!!!!

Bragging on my Husband

2008-11-19T09:36:00.006-05:00

So, Geoff has a lathe (wood turning machine) and he made this rattle. I love the stuff he does on this machine. He uses wood carving tools and the machine turns the wood for him. this rattle is made out of one piece of wood and the rings get formed with him and his carving tools. Then he finishes them with tung oil, so babies can chew on them, and they make such a beautiful, quiet sound. LOVE it!!

Weather and other oddities

2008-11-18T10:09:00.007-05:00

We got back from the wedding yesterday afternoon. It was such a beautiful wedding, unfortunately, I got NO pics of the bride and groom or wedding party. I was a little off my game. But I did get a pic of a couple of very cute cousins laying on the dance floor:)

That's obviously Michael and the little cutie girl is Jessica. They love each other! I did a bad thing. When they were leaving, Jessica asked if Michael could go home with them. I said yes laughing, but she thought i meant it. I tend to forget that 5 year olds don't know what to do with sarcasm:( I felt/feel soooooo bad. I think she'll be mad at me for a long time:(
On the way home, we stopped in Bellville Ohio to sleep for the night. Thank goodness! It was about 10 and the snow was really coming down. We got up and got on our way at around 7 (after a wonderful continental breakfast, they even had a waffle maker there:) love those waffle makers!!!
By the time we got just a little past cleveland, snow was really coming down and there was already around 6-8 inches on the ground. We were going about 30 miles per hour in our little kia, but the big rigs were passing us by very quickly! Got a little scary, but once we got through Ohio and into PA, it was just regular snow. Then New York didn't have hardly anything, hope this is the way the winter goes, everything getting dumped somewhere else but here:)Here's a look at some of the snow on the way. This was after we had passed through the really bad part, so we were a little more at ease.

Michael started one of his fevers while we were there, but it didn't slow him down any. Now hes just got a head cold, that he's passed on to me. We'll get over it:)He had no desire to have his pic taken while in the back of the car, but I did it anyway..

As most of you know, I did something to my back last week, had x-rays, no fracture (Thank God!!) After about 5 days of Muscle relaxers (only at night) and not lifting the boy and other meds, seems it's getting a little better. I can now move, just a little slow.
My ipod is broken. really broken. if anyone has an extra one that they no longer want, I would be more than happy to take it off your hands. Without an ipod, we have no music in our car, since all our cds are packed up in the basement somewhere:( So keep that in your mind. Extra ipod=extra good friend for Daina:)I also have no music to listen to during my infusions. So I'll get to listen to the beep beep beep of all the IV machines instead...
Also, before we left, Michael and I went to the library and stopped by the duck pond to give some bread to the ducky friends. This is what happened....

They seem hungry, huh? I really thought they would be gone by now, but I'm starting to wonder if they leave. It was about 30 degrees outside and they started hovering. Michael loves his friends, looks like we have a few extra mouths to feed this winter!

We're having fun here and had a great time in St. Louis. We won't be traveling again until Christmas, but we're excited about that too!!!

A couple surprising things about being home:
No one broke into my house and cleaned. Very upsetting.
Gas is nearly a dollar higher up here than it was further south. We were paying about 1.80 during the whole trip. Here, we're running about 2.50.
Michael isn't so bad in the car anymore. Still doesn't sleep much, but not so much crying or whining.
Donato's Pizza doesn't sound nearly as good during a snow storm when you're driving on the highway. Guess I'll have to wait until Christmas for my pizza:(
Do I need to unpack? I mean, I'll be packing up again in a few weeks anyway:)
Much love to all!

Follow Me

2008-11-07T10:32:00.003-05:00

Ok. I added the Follow me thing on here. So you should. So I'll feel important. Please:)

And...Had my infusion yesterday and feel about 80 percent better today than I did yesterday morning. Still a little nauseous, but it's not bad right now and will be gone by tonight (from past experience). So, seems like this drug cocktail is really doing it. Puts everyone in this house in a much better mood I tell ya! The doc is talking about putting a port in, to make the IV process easier on me and the nurses. i got stuck three times and the last time they had to thread the needle only half way in and use industrial tape and I couldn't move my wrist for three hours or it would fall out. Needless to say, not the most comfortable position and and IV in your wrist, not all that fun either....so, we'll see about the port, just a risk of infection (everything is with me:)

We go to St. Louis next weekend for Jen Jen's wedding and we're all very excited!!! Can't wait to see everyone!If the weather cooperates tomorrow, we will be going back to Chittenango Falls and taking pictures!!!!!I did get some pics of the acorns we found (finally!) Who would have thought that oak trees would be such a hot commodity??

Because I have other things to do with my time

2008-11-05T15:26:00.008-05:00

I keep on saying "I need to put that pic on my blog, I need to remember that for my blog, etc...." Oh well. here I am and I will put a hundred pics on today, because I forget things. Forgive me, i know not what I do.
I'll start with last week. geoff went out of town to vegas on business. For a convention. And left the boy and I here all alone with no one to entertain us. So what dod I do? Friday morning I wake up and ask Michael if he wants to go on a field trip fro the waterfall. He says yes so I start looking up water falls in the area and Niagara falls comes up (only two hours away) And he wants to go there. So....we do! How's that for spontaneity???We pack a lunch and some snacks and hit the road. Two and a half hours later, we're there. AWESOME!!! A day trip to Niagara falls! Neither of us had ever been so we were both a bit over-whelmed and we will be going back!!Sooooo great! Michael did so well and listened well and loved the water and the trees and buildings with cars in them. He really is a great kid!

The birds wouldn't leave the boy alone. i think they were looking for food. They're all crowded around him...

A friend of mine sent Michael a hand made stuffed animal. It's a Super Dragon Robot Monster Mash-up. Part Super hero, part dragon, part robot. All of Michaels favorite things:) He immediately took the cape off and told mommy "Mommy, he doesn't need the cape, he has wings" Silly Silly mommy.....
Thanks again Tisha!!!He is soooo loved:)
Then there was Halloween. michael was a Super Hero, "Super Michael" To be exact. i made his cape and applique for his tee shirt and little shoe cover-ups that looked like boots. he loved it, so I was very happy:) He was very nice on Halloween saying both trick or treat and thank you, such a nice boy!

The pumpkins were decorate instead of carved this year. The decorations were a halloweeny gift from Great Grandma in St. Louis. Thanks!!!We all loved them!

The next morning, we woke up and found a duck in our back yard. Michael and I quietly went out and sat on our back stoop and fed him some bread. He was right up on us and Michael was sitting there quiet as can be. Such a nice morning!

then, yesterday we voted...
Michael was very excited about getting ready to go vote!
And while watching the results I made "Bunny" Michael isn't very original with names yet, but what can I say? this is definitely one of my better stuffed animals. I was actually a tester for the willowtree. here's the Etsy shop where it will soon be available:) Such a great pattern!! http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5236586

There are other fun pictures of the bunny and other crafty stuff on my flickr site (link at side of page) I love doing all these little animals, and I'm getting better, yay!! I really liked being a tester for the pattern too (brings out that little editor side of me) so if anyone needs a tester person again, let me know:)
We also went hiking this passed weekend. We went here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittenango_Falls_State_Park. I kept walking around saying "I can't believe I forgot my camera!!" So beautiful! Depending on the weather, we may go back this weekend when I'm feeling better..But i should remember to do that stuff the week after, not the week before an infusion. i'm still feeling it and I can't wait until tomorrow when i get to go sit in that chair for three hours and come away feeling better! Yes, the meds seem to be working now, but when they stop, they really stop. But they are working.
House hasn't sold, keep praying!

Apple Butter!!!!

2008-10-23T10:19:00.007-04:00

So, went apple picking with Miss Karen down the street. Had a lot of fun and Michael was really the definition of GOOD:) We got tons of apples at only 69 cents a pound, so we've been doing a lot with apples lately. The other day, Geoff and I decided to try a hand at canning. It can be done with just a big pot and Mason Jars, which we had, so we tried and succeeded!!!Actually, I did most of it, Geoff just got the hot jars out of the hot water......But still....

Here we are picking said apples:)

While cooking, Michael built towers. he thought everyone should see his glorious works:)

I really think Michael and I will be enjoying this canning thing:)

New Arthritis Drug Being Tested

2008-10-16T09:36:00.003-04:00

OK. So everyone that knows me needs to read this! This seems like it would be such a great invention. Problem with pills is generally they afftect your organs in a more problimatic way, so, we'll see. But a pill that takes a couple of seconds, as opposed to an infusion that takes three to four hours, sounds great. Especially when finding a vein is generally a very hard thing for people to do on me:( Anyway....Read. And keep your eyes and ears open. I'll be on board.
Remember, I've been on the self injections, twice a week, Enbrel. Now I'm on the Remicade infusions. I'm going once a month, but maybe that will change to every six weeks soon:) And of course, all the other stuff I am on or have been on. I'm a human Guinea Pig...
http://www.healthcentral.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/c/53/44014/comeback

Nice Weekend

2008-10-13T08:02:00.005-04:00

Well, seems Summer has decided not to leave us yet. We had an awesome weekend with highs in the 70's and were able to get out and take in some of the beauty surrounding us. The colors up here are amazing. Brilliant oranges and reds and yellows. It doesn't hurt that I have an amazing husband and kid tagging along with me:)

On Saturday we went to the pumpkin patch and the corn maze. It's great because you buy a pass that will last for the rest of the fall for like six dollars. On that pass Michael has hayrides and playgrounds and a petting Zoo and a corn maze to enjoy! Love that everything here isn't all expensive like it is in Chicago, but still miss Chicago very much!

Getting ready for the corn maze!

Three year olds should not be able to climb all the way to the top of ten foot rope ladders...

Everyone should get to ride IN a cow someday..

King of the mountain!

After that, we went to Mill Run to look for acorns. Why is it that everytime I need something, like acorns or double sided tape, they are no where to be found???

My son has a goofy side....

This is a view from our walk home from the library. I like the duck pond and it's trees. I'm nervous that we won't be able to walk through there with ten feet of snow...

We got a pack of four plastic placemats at a garage sale. Geoff cut around the bats then cut circles out of the background and Michael and I made the door covering. Looks very cute with the boy in front of it. Yes that smile is present for almost every picture these days.....

I'm not going to give you an update on the house or my job situation or my medication situation. Nothing has changed. Only slightly irritated...

End of Summer fun and embroidery

2008-10-01T09:22:00.002-04:00

So, a couple weekends ago there was a festival in a neighboring town (about five minutes away). They had a bunch of boy scout exhibits and girl scouts and senior centers and three BIG blow up playground things. Michael thought the best part was bouncing, of course. He finally went into a jumper and actually jumped. the whole time he was in, he was going up to other little people and asking if they were his friend. I'm telling you, this kid makes friends wherever he goes! They also had a "maze" blow up thing that he spent a lot of time on. At the end of the maze was a 6 foot slide that you climbed up and slid down. He tackled that one way too quick! He seriously scares me with his physical ability sometimes.

Afterwards there was a fireworks display. This was the first time we dared to go to the actual place that the fireworks were going off. Believe it or not, he has an aversion to loud sounds. Anyway we went. You would have thought I just bought him a car. He was laughing and telling be all about how the fireworks light up the sky and talking about which one was the biggest.....During the fireworks he laid down on me and said "thank you so much for bringing me to the fireworks. it's my favorite thing in the whole world!" I had tears in my eyes, of course. He's such a nice boy. He must have thanked us a hundred times on the way home too! I'm so glad he enjoys the little things!!

On a different note:

I made these for Sarah after she had her first baby. I also made some washcloths. I think the hedgies turned out the best, but for my first go at embroidering tee shirts, I think they all turned out nicely!

I made this for me, it will eventually be a purse. I've just gotten a little side-tracked.

I didn't get the job, for those of you who were wondering. She decided to go through an agency. So, I don't know......We'll see how my treatments go and then go from there. They do seem to be making a difference though. At least the cocktail they have me on is making a difference.

Michael is doing well in speech therapy. He loves the therapist and she is really good with him and he listens to her.

He's asked me to make him a couple more things. Working out the specifics on a Chinese dragon softie and a dinosaur, they don't seem as easy as a woo...

Our house hasn't sold, still. And the market is only getting worse, so keep praying!

Geoff still likes his job. They've been doing a lot of remodeling, so a lot of switching desks and so on for the last month, so that's a little frustrating, but the job itself is great. We're still hopeful of an easy winter....

No Power & "Spooky" Stories = "Woo"

2008-09-16T08:08:00.004-04:00

We didn't have any power yesterday morning due to the wind storm that came through Sunday Night. We had about miles per hour wind and absolutely NO rain! Seems weird to me. Anyway, Moday morning, Geoff went off to work, uncertain if there would be power across town (there wasn't but they go that onwithin an hour) and Michael and I got out our books. Michael chose a new one that we had checked out of the library titled "Woo - the Not-So-Scary Ghost. After the fourth time staright reading it, he looked up at me and asked me if I would make him a Woo. Of course I said yes and we went through the dark basement with a flashlight looking for felt. He chose white with sparkles and orange eyes and a black mouth. I, of course, did the stitching and he "helped with stuffing. I chose to put his name on his bottom (because I do that sort of thing). Ok, on to the pictures. I love this thing and Michael wanted to sleep with him last night. That makes me feel like the most specail person on earth:)

Last weekend we made ALOT of zuicchini bread and gave lots of it to the neigbors. i got tired of the activity after the first two batches. So Geoff took over. And Michael helped. I don't really have the stamina to cook with Michael, i get to nervous about him falling off the chair or blending his finger or something, so I didn't participate, in fact, I left and ran errands and got to come home to the delicious smell of Zucchini bread. I did manage to take a few pics before I left though:

Still no news on the job. So I really don't think I got it, so still looking....

Up until this past week I was feeling a little better, so I think the remicade may be starting to wotk.....YAY!!!!!!

Still no news on the condo....But Geoff still likes his new job, which is great! And we love the area, just miss our friends and family

2008-09-13T23:02:00.005-04:00

New Crafty-ness: made this shirt (well the embroidery) for shannon's little girl It's a little elf-like creature riding a snail and I love it:)

Thanks to Andra Zuill for the free pattern! http://zuill.us/andreablog/

Having fun and feeling sore go hand in hand

2008-09-02T08:36:00.010-04:00

So. The in-laws (known from here on as Maw Maw and Paw Paw) came in last week and the stayed for 5 1/2 days). We had a blast and ended up a bit tired, but happy for the visit. Michael was so excited to have so many of his "Big People" with him everywhere we went, especially since Maw Maw and Paw Paw are his "favorite people ever"!

The next day, we took them (actually they drove, but you get the idea) to Green lakes. We didn't go swimming, but we went around green lake and then played on the playground and Paw Paw and Michael went walking around the lake. Michael and Paw Paw found a Millipede and had a ball playing with him, even if the millipede didn't enjoy it so much.

Michael decided to go in a little and didn't listen very well to Paw Paw, but Paw Paw knows how to handle a three year old in these situations:)

We went to Fort Rickie on Saturday. My goodness! All the animals were so friendly and they let you get right in the gates with the Deer and the Goats. Michael was a little intimidated by the deer and their antlers, but loved it all the same. They had a playground there too! Yes, my son did tip the turtle onto his back. When we told him the turtle was going to be sad, he immediately turned him back and told him he was sorry:)

Isn't he lovely??

Notice how one of the goats is standing on another to get at the hay??

Bev made friends!

All the boys

Monday we went to the New York State Fair. That was of course our first time and Michael seemed to enjoy himself, we all did too! Michael rode some animails and almost went on the jumper, but he got a little freaked out by the guy trying to put the harness on him, so all he got out of it was a little blue ticket, unused. Paw Paw also showed Michael how to golf. I think the hardest part was probably teaching how to go in order...

The nice giraffes were very friendly at the zoo..

Waiting, so excited to jump... Refusing to be harnessed....
Geoff is the only one not smiling because he's being choked:)

They went home on Tuesday and for the next few days Michael was asking for Maw Maw and Paw Paw.

Michael and Geoff and I rested for the next week and then on Labor Day we decided to try another state park. We went to Clark Reservation and got a great workout-I'm sooo sore today!

We took the cliff trail which do a lot of climbing up some rocks (not real rock climbing, but a lot of steep steps type climbing).

View from the cliff trail (and Geoff, of course)

175 limestone steps of pain...

Michael has climbing tendancies

My boys!

After that, we went on the 175 limestone steps that lead down to the lake in the basin. Those steps are the most horrible things ever and I think they should be banned! But we did have a good labor day and Michael enjoyed most of the climbing but did about half of it on Daddy's shoulders (when it came to the climbing of the rocks, he did most of that on his own, "I want to do it by myself"!!!) I swear, the kids gonna give his mother a heart attack one day!

On an un-related note, Geoff and Michael have made a few birdhouses in the past couple weeks. Michael even helps with the sawing. He also gets to pick the color and does a lot of the painting. he loves building with his daddy and things that "the birdies need a place for their family so they don't miss their family". When hes not jumping and climbing and screaming, he's a pretty sensitive kid:)

Two of the birdhouses and Michael "helping" to paint one.

I had another infusion on Thursday and he changed up my meds a little. Arthritis-wise I feel OK right now. The problem is, I stop feeling OK about two weeks after the infusion and they've got me on the highest dose, so we're trying to figure out where to go from there...

Still no news on the job or the house, so keep praying!

Show Mommy What You Did...

2008-08-21T07:53:00.006-04:00

So. My lovely son was supposed to be finding his pirate hat in his bedroom. He was being really nice and quiet and I figured he was actually looking for it, so I let him be. About five minutes after he went upstairs he came down with this:

He was also covered with the white stuff. All over his head and his shirt and a trail of it coming down the stairs. I didn't get a pic of that, I was just trying to get it off him. So I said to him "Show mommy what you did". He took my hand and led me upstairs to his room where I found this:

It smelled bad. It was just baby powder, but that much really stinks. Took an hour of me vacuuming and then Geoff having to empty the toy box and wiping everything down and it still stinks up there...I love my son:)

On a completely un-related note.....I have flowers!Lots of them. The marigolds that I got for Easter popped up while I was in Virginia and now look beautiful!!!!They came from seeds and I planted them in May and the came up the end of July. There was a lot of green before that, but no color. Now there's lots of color:)I really like the big yellow one.

Michael's Zinnia. Aunt Connie sent him Veggie tales seeds and he planted them and does most of the watering.

My Bachelor Buttons didn't turn out well, so no pictures of them.

Mom and Dad are coming for a visit today. We're planning on the fair and lots of other park type stuff. Let's all pray for good weather. Michael is so very

excited about seeing Maw Maw and Paw Paw. He wants to show them all his toys and his "Big House" and his new friends. I guess hes just excited about everything, but so am I. I love having visitors and Mike and Bev are great to have. I love watching them with Michael. Makes me miss Mom a little more, but it's good that he can know at least one set of grandparents!
Haven't heard about the job yet. But keep praying, because it's still a possibility:)

Big Boy Bikes and Other Exciting Events:)

2008-08-07T12:38:00.006-04:00

Well, a couple of months ago Michael climed up on a two wheel Princess bicycle (with training wheels) in the store. At that point, we made a mental note to try to find his two wheel bike. Unfortunately, seems like the five dollar bike that i bought at a yard sale last year didn't end up making the trip from Chicago. So, Michael didn't have a two wheeler.

Then, right after getting home from Virginia, a 14 inch little boys bike came up on freecycle and we snatched it up. Geoff added some training wheels and Michael put on his helmet and was off in a hurry. It was love at first ride:)

First picture on the big boy bike:)
Daddy got a little thirsty after the first ride. Michael already had him at a fast paced jog. He's a little speed demon!

We also went to a new park! It's a park right on Lake Onondaga and in a few of the pictures below, you can see the lake in the background.

What you can't see too well in this picture is that those blocks all move independently of eachother and they have a pretty steep slope. I didn't think he would be able to do this. He showed me, and he did it pretty quick:)

Another ladder type thing that moves. This was taller than Geoff. You see where Michael is.

He's got one huge grape in each cheek. He was trying to put the carrot in without chewing the grapes. Didn't work. See the lake in the back?

I just love these two pictures. He's just having such a good time!

We also went to our first Syracuse Chiefs baseball game. Michael didn't last the whole time and wanted to walk around the stands the whole time, but I think we all had a good time:)

Last, but not least......I may have a job lead. A work from home personal assistant type job, but a job!!!!Keep praying!!!

WE'RE BACK!!!!!!

2008-07-24T11:31:00.003-04:00

So, after nearly three weeks away from the house and two weeks away from the Daddy, Michael came home and I followed suit. He made me, he said he couldn't get on the train without me.....whatever....

We left on July third and headed for Ocean City, MD. We stayed in a townhouse that belongs to our cousins soon-to-be husband (well, it belongs to his family, not all to him....) We saw fireworks from the deck of the townhouse. We went swimming in the ocean every day and played on the deck and the dock every night. Michael loved the sand, but surprisingly, didn't like being in the ocean. he said the waves scared him. Amazing! He's not so fearless after all:)

After the ocean, Michael and I rode to Stafford/Fredericksburg Virginia, where our aunt and cousins live. We were there for two more weeks:) Michael had a great time with his five year old cousin Jessica (even if they did fight like brother and sister:) He also loved swimming in the pool with Jessica and Mike and Jenny. He played with all the dogs, but only Charlie could keep him from picking her up:) He got a little rough with the small dogs, but hopefully it was a learning experience:(

While there, we did a lot of sight seeing and playing. I had the opportunity to visit Fredricksburg a little and went to Washington DC twice. It was the first time I had ever been to either place. I think I could do a whole week in DC and still not see everything I want to see! But it was all pretty amazing!!!

Michael and I came back on the train (the "real choo choo train") and he did really well. It was a beautiful ride. Once we got through New York City we went up the Hudson River almost the whole way. So we saw River with a back drop of mountains. Michael slept about 3 1/2 of the 9 hours, which wasn't so bad. When he was awake, he was busy making friends with EVERYONE and staring out the window for long periods of time. He had only a couple minor outbursts. When we had to switch trains in penn station in NYC, he chose a big soft pretzel over candy, and he devoured it!!I had a couple bites, but that's all he would give me :) By the time the trip was done, he was REALLY ready to see his Daddy. When he saw him through the window of the train, he started jumping up and down and yelling to Geoff through the window. The smiles on both their faces were priceless!!!! As we were getting off the train, lots of people kept saying "bye Michael" Geoff laughed as I expleained all the friends Michael made.
Of course, there are tons of pictures so I'm just posting a link to a "small album on winkflash. Enjoy!!!!!!!
http://dainastock.winkflash.com

Last Post for a Few Weeks

2008-07-01T07:22:00.006-04:00

We're going to Ocean City in two day's and will be there from Thursday through Monday. Then, Geoff is coming back up here and Michael and I will be going down to Virginia with Aunt Holly and the rest of the gang for two weeks. We're extremely excited! I haven't seen the ocean in over a decade and Michael is busy trying to figure out the difference between a Lake Beach and an Ocean Beach (at least I'm busy trying to describe the differences..)

After that, Michael and I will be taking the train back up here. It will be our first time on a real train, we've only been on the El, so we'll see how the monkey does. Maybe we'll get lucky and he will sleep the whole way:)

This past weekend we went to Green Lakes again on Saturday, walked the trails and went swimming. I'm including some pics of the lake, it's such a beautiful color when you get into the deep part!

The beautiful lake, you can see where it's brownish then turns to that gorgeous blue-green color....

Michael Climbing on a fallen dead tree. he made it up about three feet with no help from us. The boy is fearless!

This is one of our chipmunks that hangs out on our back porch (they hang out on our front porch too) it was getting dark and I can't use the flash on moving objects, sorry about the poor quality:(

We walked to Mill Run Park after Geoff got off work one day. There are walking trails and a creek (it's the creek that's right behind our house, but there's no real access behind our house). There's also a playground. This picture is right after Michael decided he could walk by himself in the creek and fell face first. You can almost see the smile on his face when he got up. If you look closely you can see his dimples:) Like I said, the boy is fearless!

It looks like he's holding hands with Geoff here, but he's actually trying to break free, there was a struggle going on...

These ducks and ducklings are very dark, they don't look like mallards. Anyone know what kind of duck they are?

Same set of dark ducks:)

These are just some late hatching ducklings, they're so small compared to the rest of the almost-full-size ducklings born earlier this spring:)

Jumping over a very large bolder. If you build it, he will jump over or on it!

Also, my woodchuck has a trap in his burrow, it's one that the wildlife control guys stuck down in his hole, so Geoff doesn't know how to get it out? Anyone have any ideas? I don't want them killing my Friend. He would be greatly missed:(

OK. I think that's it for now. We miss all of you and hope you're having a great summer!!!Come visit us to see our wildlife friends!!!

How to Go Nowhere Fast....

2008-06-24T07:38:00.006-04:00

We went canoeing with Michael this weekend at Beaver Lake. We went all around the lake and Michael actually kept his bottom in the canoe almost the whole time:) He tried to pick water lillies, I then tr ied to explain that that wasn't possible and that the frogs needed the lillies to jump on. I think he bought that one....

We saw 3 turtles and one frog and I was lucky enough to get 11 mosquito bites while we were out. Yay!

We found a new kind of water lilly. I've decided that when we get a house and a pond, I want one of these!

These pine trees were amazing! I loved the way they line the path. Michael kept looking up and saying..."The trees are REALLY tall!" He has a knack for stating the obvious:)
Look closely, a frog is in there... One of the turtles
Geoff is eating and Michael is jumping...
Some ducks were born a little late. Aren't the adorable?!!I've never seen so many ducklings!

The duck on the left is the baby, born a couple months ago. He's almost as big as Mamma!

The Gosslings are HUGE now! And you really have to watch your step when walking through the grass. They have a tendancy to leave alot of yucky stuff lying around:P

Our friendly groundhog (woodchuck). He lives behind our house and pays a visit to our back porch every now and then. Geoff got some good pictures of him. Too bad most of them were through the screen...... We're obviously still having a lot of fun with the wildlife.

Michael's new friend Anna. He already has a thing for older women. She's 4 1/2:)

We're going to Ocean City MD for the 4th (Thanks Jenny!!!!) So we'll have lots of pictures from that, I'm sure...

Our condo in Chicago still hasn't sold. I think I may shout it from the roof top once it does, so keep praying!

I started the remicade infusions last Thursday, all went well and I didn't show any signs of an allergic reaction, so I'll have another infusion on the 3rd of July, then the 3rd of August and then I will only have to go in about ever 6-8 weeks. I don't have to give myself shots anymore and the infusion is almost like a spa day. I get to sit in a comfy chair and read for a few hours. They bring me juice and snacks and I don't have to to anything while there. So, let's hope the medication starts working after the next infusion, because I don't feel any different yet.

Hope all is well with everyone!!!!!

I hate the DMV

2008-06-06T08:16:00.003-04:00

So. Syracuse only has two, yes that's right 2 DMV offices, for the entire city and it's surrounding areas. Who does that?!!!!

Anyway, Geoff, Michael and I went yesterday. Left Geoff's office at around 4:10, got there at around 4:30 and finally made it out of there at 6:55. Yes, I said 6:55. If you are unable to do the math, I'll do it for you.....That's 2 hours and 25 minutes. In the DMV office, with 200 other people and a very anxious 3 year old boy who really has no desire to sit still at any time. All this so we can drive "legally" in the state of New York where we now live. We all had to go because our car is registered to both of us and we both had to sign the papers and of course we have no babysitter and after walking out of there 200 dollars poorer, couldn't afford it anyway. Can you tell I'm a bit frustrated? Well, I am. There were so many people looking at us like, "WHY DID YOU BRING THAT CHILD IN HERE?" I was about to tell every one of them why, but was stopped by my husband..

OK. Done now. I think my son will recuperate fast enough, but I'm glad I'm done with that for the next couple years at least. The registration doesn't expire until 2010 and our licenses don't expire until 2013. We are now officially residents of the great state of New York....

YIPPPEEEEEEE

2008-06-04T08:11:00.001-04:00

All bloodwork came back. All my levels are in the normal range. No high enzyme levels or anything.....so everything is good there and I can stop worrying about my liver shutting down....At least for a little while:)

Rheumatologist and Beach Fun

2008-05-30T07:19:00.008-04:00

I was at the doctor's office from 8:45-11:30. First, talking to the new doctor for about and hour and a half and then getting blood drawn and x-rays taken. The doc agreed that I have probably developed a tolerance for my miracle drug. Not many develop a tolerance after only a year, but hey, I gotta be different!
Soooooooooooo, I get to start a new regime. I will start doing remicade infusions sometime next month (we have to wait for a pre-authorization from the insurance company and for the Enbrel to be out of the system). He also put me on a different anti-inflamatory. Fun stuff. More pills. Yay. I think I've lined up a sitter for Michael for the first couple monts of appointments. I'll be going every other week and will be hooked up to an IV for a couple of hours each time. After the two months, it will only be every 6-8 weeks. So, at least I won't have to give myself a shot twice a week!

Now, the fun stuff. Pictures of the boy and all that good stuff.

We found a great state park, just about 15 minutes away, and found out that there are about five more just as close in different directions. The one we went to this weekend was Green Lakes State Park. It had miles and miles of trails, two lakes, a beach, a playground, lots of benches and grills, boat rental, and the list goes on and on..... We went Sunday afternoon, then went back on Monday. Michael ADORED it!!!He loves being outside!
Michael and Me. Amazing, isn't it? I'm actually in a picture! This is us on the beach. It was only about 70 degrees outside, but the water wasn't horrible. Michael wanted to go all the way in, but we didn't bring our swimsuits that day..

This is the lovely Green Lake. I love the views we have here, I think they make the move worthwhile:)

I seriously think Michael would have stayed there for the rest of the day, if we would have let him! Here he is running on a retaining wall somewhere along the trail.
Please Daddy!!!!!Don't make me leave!!!!!

Michael and Daddy. LOVE IT!!!!!

The next day we went to the beach and Michael and Daddy went in (I'm still too chicken for a swimsuit:)
He is such a Goofball!!!!!

Splash, splash, splash!

Daddy built a "Castle" and Michael immediately destroyed it:)
So, we had a great time. Everyone should come visit us!!!

Yesterday

2008-05-26T19:21:00.002-04:00

Yesterday would have been my Mom's 56th birthday, so I made her brownies.

OK, one down

2008-05-21T12:03:00.002-04:00

OK. I do have a sinus infection. Prescribed antibiotic and flonase. Woo Hoo. But at least now I think I've found a primary doctor here. She seemed nice. She even put up with my screeming three year old (he was scared of the family violence poster, ugghhh). So she also told me to call her if my appointment with the rheumatologist didn't go well and she would suggest a couple other possibilities. I hate this. And I'm a big baby.

Need prayers, lots of them

2008-05-20T12:59:00.002-04:00

OK. This past couple months have been a bit stressful. Everyone who knows me, knows that I have a little trouble admitting when I need help. So here goes... I need help. Specifically in the nature of prayers. There's some stuff coming up in the next month that I'm a little worried about and I'm having a hard time handing it over the the One in charge. So I figure, friends and family can help too:)
First: We got moved (obviously), but our condo hasn't sold yet. We need it to sell to be able to survive. Right now we're paying a mortgage, condo assessment, rent and two sets of utilities. It's getting a bit rough. We're still fine, but you know.....People have looked at the condo for the past 4 days in a row (not sure if anyone has looked at it more than once..)
Second: I've got a doctors appointment tomorrow for a sinus issue that has been with me since Saturday. I can't let it get out of hand because of the meds I'm on.
Third: I've got a Rheumatologist appointment on the 29th. Worried about the blood tests, my liver enzymes have been high the past two tests, that's not good, especially since every single drug for Arthritis can have a bad effect on the liver. And..The Enbrel hasn't been working (at least it doesn't seem like it) and I feel like crap. He's also a new doctor for me, in a new city, at a new hospital. I really don't like finding new doctors. It took me five years to find my last rheumatologist and it takes forever to get in to see one. Then, they want to run all the tests again even if you've just had them done.
Fourth: Still laid off. Still no prospect of a good job working from home.
Fifth: I miss my Mom. This move, and everything that's happened since, has been so hard and I want my mommy.
OK. I think I'm done whining. Please pray. I know things could be worse (as I've seen in the past week), but I think I need to be a little proactive.
Thanks to all!

Because I said things couldn't get any worse.....

2008-05-19T12:14:00.002-04:00

Last Monday, Grandpa Kleisly passed away. The visitation was Thursday and the funeral on Friday. It was all very lovely and very fitting and he will be missed greatly (an understatement, but the words haven't been coming easily). He had five children (all girls), 15 grandchildren (17 if you count Christina and I) and one great grandchild (Michael). I am so thankful to have seen him right before we moved here, and for him to have seen Michael.
We travelled on Tuesday and Wednesday to get there Wednesday evening. Then we travelled Saturday and Sunday to get home Sunday evening. By the time we got home Geoff and I both had horrible sinus issues. A terrible end to an even worse week.
On the good side, we got to spend some much needed family time with some much-loved family. I've said it a hundred (++++++) times and I'm sure I'll say it a million more....I married into the best family possible. I only hope that one day I can give them all they have given me.

I'm supposed to celebrate what?

2008-05-12T08:23:00.002-04:00

OK. So, I'm a bit on the bitter side right now. I had a good mothers day. Geoff grilled steaks and he grilled chicken and veggie kabobs and we had rice and good beer and Michael actually ate without complaining about it. Then we went for ice cream. That was all fine and good and I love my husband and son.

But........yesterday was my second mothers day without having a mother. So, there's one thing that was making me a little upset. I just wanted my mommy. Yes, I know I'm 32. But I don't think you can ever be too old to want your mommy. I've come to that conclusion.

Second thing that was plaguing our family yesterday...Grandpa was taken off his respirator, and they aren't optimistic. So, Grandpa....Bad. No mommy....bad. i just found it a little difficult to celebrate.

OK. I might be done complaining now.

Survey's happen when I'm procrastinating...

2008-05-05T07:59:00.005-04:00

If I looked on the bedside table next to you, what would I find?
A stack of stuff that has been unpacked, but not put away
Do you go to the bathroom with the door open or closed?
Closed
Are your underwear and socks folded in your drawer or just thrown in?
Thrown in, if they're lucky enough to make it out of the laundry basket after I do the wash.
Sleep on your back or stomach?
Side (why isn't this an option? I know lots of people do this)?
Are you a cuddler?
No
What would I find if I looked UNDER your bed?
Plastic bins full of yarn and other craft supplies
Something that happened today that made you angry?
We'll I think it's too early to be angry yet, but I was a little upset at having to get up at 6:00am...But coffee was waiting for me, and big hugs and kisses from the little monster..
What were you doing before this survey?
Pooring coffee
What will you do after the survey?
Take a shower
Marriage or living together?
Marriage
What shirt are you wearing now?
A robe
Do you sing?
I do, but you don't want to hear it, I promise...
Do you de-label your beer bottles?
Sadly, yes
Do you talk about your feelings or hide them?
Some would say I talk to much.
Is there something you regret and wish you could take back?
I really can't regret things I've learned from. I feel bad for hurting people in the past. But I've apologized and realized they needed to happen for me to be here.
First thing you do when you wake up?
Find my glasses
Ever had surgery?
Yeah, a couple
Last argument you got into with?
Probably my son. Yes, I know, he's only three. But trust me, he can already get his argument on.
Do you tend to rip the paper off water bottles?
Yes,
What's one good thing about your best friend?
She calls me out on stuff. I can't get away with anything, and that's the way it should be.
How long does it take for you to fall asleep at night?
Waaaaaayyyyyyyyyyyy too long!
Current song on myspace?
I forget
When you shut off your alarm clock, do you tend to fall back asleep?
I don't use an alarm clock. i have a three year old for that:)
If you were given the chance to take care of a monkey for a weekend, would you?
I've already got the three year old. Again, no
What is the current advertisement on the side of the screen?
I really can't tell. I think it's some kind of goth glitter icons
What are you looking forward to in the next few months?
Selling my house??????
Who are you texting?
I don't text. That takes money and takes coordination, two things I don't have.
It's Wednesday afternoon, where are you usually?
Home, enjoying the quiet while the little man takes a nap
Honestly, if you could have ANYONE in the world, who would it be?
My husband. Honestly.
Your Christmas list consists of?
A new House here
You're going to New York for school shopping, where do you go first?
School shopping? Then it would be for Michael, so, Target. So no New York
You need a new pair of jeans, what store do you go to first?
I don't.
How do you feel about your hair?
I'm a little bored with it. And there's a lot more grey than there was a couple years ago. But the color is natural again
What movie is in your DVD player?
Little People Discovering Places.
If you could move away, no questions asked, where would you move?
We just got here, I don't think I've seen enough to want to leave yet
How much do looks matter to you in a guy/girl?
I long time ago it mattered a lot. Now it doesn't matter because I'm with the one I want to be with
What's the greatest thing that happened to you today?
I walked down the stairs (seriously)
How many TRUE best friends do you have?
That;s a hard question. I've got a best friend from middle school and a best friend from my post baby days and best friends within my family. I am just as close to all of them, but all in different ways. I'm soooo grateful to be able to say that!
What would you change about your life right now?
I would be in a house. I would be in less pain. And my apartment in Chicago would be sold.
What’s the best feeling in the world?
Love

Big Balls, New Zoos, and First Times

2008-05-02T08:57:00.008-04:00

You all know buy now, I'm a little addicted to taking pictures of the Boy. You may all opt out of looking, but since you are all so far away, I think you should all look!

Before I start with pictures and stories......

HAPPY VERY BELATED B-DAYS to ALISON & THERESA!!!!!!!!! I'm a horrible sister, I know it. But, in my defense, I HAVE had a lot going on:) I'll make up for it someday:)

Congratulations Christina on your last day of school for a long long time!!!!!!!

Ok, now back to the boy and me:)

We've had a fun couple weeks here. Geoff blew up Michael's big blue ball (actually the electric pump blew it up, geoff just watched). Then we played in the big grassy area by our house. Michael LOVES it when we're all able to go out and play together! As you can see, this ball is HUGE!

I told you the ball was huge!!!!!

Lovin the action!

Can anyone tell me what kind of flower this is? Geoff says it's just a clover. Doesn't look like a clover to me....

We went to the Rosamond Gifford Zoo in Syracuse for the first time. Michael and I went on a Saturday so Geoff could stay home and find stuff that we had been looking for. He did find most of it:)

Getting ready to go, all buckled up!!!!!!

Great photo op!!

Michael was a penguin, but wouldn't stay for another picture...

I thought this was a gorgeous tree!

Making friends with the big and little!

Of course, he had to climb all the rocks

riding the baby elephant statue at the Zoo

And finally!!!!!!!Michaels first day of school (well, the first one we're going to stay at since he was kicked out of the first one. he was the youngest by a year and a half, so we put him in a younger class, this one has the same age limits, but he's not the youngest anymore, so everyone is just as disruptive:)

He made a picture. the teacher did the umbrella, but he drew the rain, and decided there had to be rain ON the umbrella, as well as around the umbrella. The letter of the day was "U"

I like how the big blue ball makes it look like he has a hallo:) He's so proud!!!

Hope everyone is well and planning a fun cinco de mayo!!!!

Another Day, Another Playground

2008-04-25T08:02:00.010-04:00

Well, we got some pictures of the "BIG" playground. There weren't any other kids there when we got ther, and Michael said "Where did everyone go Mommy?" So cute! After the playground, we got Ice Cream Cones. This was much more for me than for him. Up until two days ago, he wouldn't touchice cream. Well, he has changed his mind and has joined the dark side. Now he asks for it about every five minutes:) A boy after my own heart:)

These are from the ice cream party Michael and I had. It was a beautiful day and they have benches outside the shop.

Look how neat this Sign is. i think I might like the small town thing!

Here's Michael on the big playground. The building you see behind him is the town police department. Do you think this playground is safe?

Daredevil picture.

"This is how you do it mommy!"

Hanging all by himself. he's getting so big!!

The first time he did this I thought I was going to have a heart attack. It's really high!

I swear, one day, he's going to break this thing. he gets it rocking so hard the butterflies wings touch the gravel. I don't think that;s supposed to happen.

This is the veiw from the big playground. Those are our apartments (but ours is on the other side of the complex)

I Don't know why, but I had to show th epolice department. i really do like that it's so close to the playground:)

I'm in the process of making some blackout curtains for Michaels room. They're pretty plain, I'm just using some Khaki fabric (from stuff we already had), so I'm going to applique some felt stars (that bev has been sending to us since he was born) all over the curtains to make them fun. I'll show those when I'm finished. Hopefully by the end of the weekend:)

Wildlife, Wallets and Wacky Afghans

2008-04-21T09:40:00.012-04:00

Hello everyone!

Well, we made it to Syracuse (actually Manlius, but a suburb of Syracuse). We're in a townhouse with a basement and a washer & dryer. It's been about 7 years since I've done my own Laundry, and, believe it or not, I LOVE it.

We have a small backyard where Michael is enjoying the running and all the wildlife. Here are some pics of our fine (some feathered) friends:

If you look closely at the pic below. You can see the groundhog, right behind our Mr. and Mrs. Duck. The pile of leaves behind our stone garden girl is his burrow. This is right behind our apartment about 20 feet away from our door

This pic is at our front door. We're pretty sure they are the same two ducks, but not positive.

This is Mama Swan. She's sitting on about five eggs. Evidently she hasn't had any babies hatch for awhile (like five years, per the nice elderly gentleman at the swan pond) This pond is about a 5 minute walk from our apartment, right next to the duck pond and the "BIG" playground.This is Daddy swan. He's in the pond right next to the nest. he followed us around the pond this day(there's a walking path around it and he swam around it with us)These are the huge fish in the swan pond (they're about 20 inches long, I know it's hard to see that)

We spend a lot of time at the playground. The "little" playground is right at the end of our building and Michael rides his Bicycle there almost every day. he's getting very good at peddling and steering and has quite the stamina. He'll be on a two wheeler in no time! I don't know how I haven't gotten a pic yet, but I haven't. Here's a couple of pics of him at the "little" playground though

The goofy grin ( I LOVE this and will never get enough of it!

The slide, I swear he could go down this thing a million times and not get tired of it:)He's almost learned the art of pumping his legs when he swings. Almost.Climbing up the rope ladder. He thinks he's grown!

Now, for the Wallets part of my post. I know not everyone cares about my crafty endeavors, but hey, I love it. I made a checkbook cover. This is very exciting for three reasons.....One, i love the fabric and my sister in law gave it to me. The outside is black vinyl with a floral embossing and the inside is a twill floral cream and white. it's so girly girl. Second: this means I have found my sewing machine, thread and fabric. VERY BIG DEAL. I feel almost normal again:) and third: I now have a new checkbook cover for my new checking account at our new bank in our new city. Pretty exciting stuff!

Inside:Outside:

OK, I think this will be the last and most picture-tastic part of my post:) For Easter, Michael and I (Geoff stayed at home to patch walls and stuff like that) went to Little Rock with the rest of the Clan: Paw-Paw, Maw-Maw, Aunt Tina, Uncle Kyle, Alison, Theresa, Jake, Loddi and Chelsea. We had a great time with the grand parents and their dogs and aunts and uncles and their dogs:) While in Little Rock, we took a little trip to a big river and went fishing (well, everyone except me and Paw Paw. I don't fish and Paw Paw had surgery so he couldn't fish) But Michael had a blast and so did everyone else there. We saw lots of pretty stuff and got lots of pretty pictures. While there Christina and I present Mom (our husbands mother) with our b-day present to her. We had both worked on a lot of crochet squares and our plan is to put them together into a pretty afghan. Alison and Theresa and Mom then helped us decide what order to put them in. I'm still in the middle of blocking (with very little space mind you) and Christina, I'm sure is still in the middle of finishing up some of the squares she was supposed to do. I think that's OK though. I've moved and she's busy finishing graduate school and closing on their first house and packing, so I think we both have good excuses:) I think Mom should get it by Christmas. Below are some pics of fishing, Mom and Dad's house fun, Easter egg hunts, and all of us (including Chelsea the Yorkie) figuring out the afghan layout! What a great family to belong to!

One of Michael's b-day gifts in Little Rock, a great bubble wand and bubbles (and Loddi too)

Maw-Maw, Michael & Chelsea

How many eggs does one boy need? MORE!!!!

Maw-Maw and Michael walking to the river. He loved his life vest! (it has Diego on it!)

Paw-Paw (with a post-surgery shoulder) fishing in the river. I think those are Theresa's legs)

Alison and Michael. That's obviously Alison's pole:)

Alison, Michael and Christina right on the river

Michael resting on the tackle box

The last morning fishing. Michael woke with a fever of 104.9 and felt like being naked. Then he wanted a towel for a blanket. You try arguing with a three year old with a fever that high!

The following pics are all of the squares Christina and I did. The pics didn't turn out great, but that was a wonderful night. I'm so glad everyone else figured out where they should go. I' horrible at that stuff!

The daffodil festival in Little Rock. It was gorgeous. We picked some and took lots of pictures:)

All the girls Christina, Theresa, Alison, and Goofy Me

Paw Paw and Michael in the rocking chairs on the deck. That's Jake's bottom.

For Michael's B-day, he wanted a "Blue" cake. So we got a small cake and put blue cotton candy on it. His birthday was the day we got into Syracuse. So we stopped at wal-mart for his presents and some food and went to I-hop for dinner and came home and had cake and presents. We had a really great time and Michael loved everything. He probably had 4 "birthday's" this year:) Now he thinks everyday is his birthday:)

Daddy wearing Michael's lion visor

Michael with skarloey and the track skarloey came with..

More bubble wands!

And then we found some of his other trains and tracks!

So, this is what we've been doing the past month (it all started March 15th). We've had alot of fun, and we're pretty tired. We're getting used to the area and still unpacking, but getting there. Hope this post finds everyone well!

OH MY GOODNESS!!!!

2008-03-12T16:02:00.002-04:00

OK, I'm moving. To Syracuse New York. The 31st of this month. CRAZY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Geoff got a new job, making a lot more money in a city that cost about half as much to live in as Chicago.

I'm scared and excited all at the same time. We will be renting a townhouse until our place sells. But get this....the townhouse will have the same square footage, plus a washer and dryer and a basement to keep all our extra stuff! And the rent there is less than half of our mortgage! This is all so crazy, every time I think about the money part of it I get a little sick....

We will miss everyone here all our friends who mean sooo much to us, but this is such an excellent opportunity, we just can't pass it up.

My office is still going to allow me to work from home. My hours will be cut, but it's still extra income, and since we will have a mortgage and rent for a while, it's needed. We will also need another car soon, but that should be able to wait until we sell the condo.

Michael had his three year checkup today. He's 39 inches tall and 34 1/2 pounds. He's in the 85th percentile for height and 75th for weight. The doctor thinks he's getting ready for a growth spurt since he's so high in the weight department and so low in the height department (compared to what he usually is...)

Right before we left for the appointment, Michael ran into Sebastian's head and banged his eye so bad that he now has a very puffy, very black eye. I'm really shocked nobody has clled the cops on me with some of the injuries this kid gets:( He seems to be taking it all OK.

We leave for Little Rock on Sunday, Geoff is staying home to fix all the picture holes and such, so that we can put the place on the market. So Michael and I are flying to Little Rock then the Mom in Law (I'm sooooooo lucky!!!!) and I will drive back home, going through St. Louis, and be here for the movers. Then the day after the movers come, we'll clean and then head on out to syracuse, we may be going to Virginia, depending on how long the Truck will take to get from here to Syracuse, I'll be without the internet for a couple weeks. I hope everyone is well!!!!

Everything is fine, just fine

2008-01-29T12:02:00.000-05:00

I sent my mom a card right after I moved to St. Louis (that was nearly a decade ago). I had had a bad day and had called my mother in tears, sobbing uncontrollably and needed to re-assure here that i was indeed fine, she was a worrier. I was 23. The card had a little girl on it. All it said was "I'm fine, just fine, really, I'm fine".
For the years after that, anytime one of us would break down into tears on the phone, we would end with that statement. That way we knew that we were going to be fine, that we were just having a rough time for now.
She even said it to me a couple weeks before she passed away.She said that to me the last time this week, last year. I thought I would keep hearing it for the reast of my life, at least for a long time. I never imagined that would be the last time she said it. We laughed then and said I love you and said Goodbye. I only talked to her a few times after that, as her health declined and she never said it again. February 24th will mark the one year anniversary of her death and I often find myself thinking I'm fine, just fine.

Look at me, I can follow directions!!!

2008-01-07T08:19:00.000-05:00

I got this design from here:http://whipup.net/2007/09/18/cigarette-case-needle-holder/ Thank You!!!!!

Since I haven't smoked for a long long time, and this was a gift from my very best friend, I figured I would do something useful with it. It turned out to be exactly what I wanted:) Enjoy! Since Chicago is now non-smoking everywhere, maybe more people should jump on the craft bandwagon!!!

Sewing for Charity....

2008-01-06T17:11:00.000-05:00

Hello, I'm trying to start donating clothes to a charity that sends them to third world countries (I have to get the exact name of it. I'm doing this along with a lady from my church who has been doing it for years:). They sew dresses and book bags and pants and that sort of thing. I don't have a lot of money to spend on fabric, so I'm trying to find someone with a large stash or knowledge of places that will donate. I'm willing to pick up anywhere in Chicago or the surrounding areas! Thanks everyone:) I'll post pics once I get my first article done. I should get the patterns later this week. I can't wait!!!!

my first wallet

2008-01-02T20:11:00.001-05:00

This is my very first hand made wallet. it turned out pretty well, but the zipper is funky, thestitching around it at least. It was also my first zipper, so I'm OK with that:) I got a sewing machine for Christmas. I love it. I have so many projects planned in my mind right now!

I totally forgot to mention that I got the pattern off craftster. Here's the link and thank you babyangel!!!!:

http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=212483.0

Pink and green?????

2007-12-20T07:25:00.000-05:00

I made this for my mother in law last night. I was telling her about Michael's Monster and she decided I should make a Christmas Tree ornament. Then she started talking about how cute it would be to have monsters take over the Christmas tree. So here you have it:) She's in love with the pinks and greens of this Christmas. I know the green is off, but it's as close as I could find:( He's got a snowflake on his belly:)

My hand is killing me today (from all the hand stitching) but I think it will be worth it!

For those of you who are paying attention (which I'm sure most of you are), Christmas Eve marks 10 months since Mom died. It's also a very big marker for me personally. Christmas eve marks a year since I saw my Mom alive. When I left the hospital in Columbus, I had no clue if I would ever see her or talk to her again. She had taken a big turn for the worse, and the doctors didn't know. Well, I ended up talking to her numerous times after that (Thank you God!!!), and she did get better after that, but then she got worse and passed away on February 24th 2007. I remember sitting in the airport, needing to get home after being gone for two weeks (sitting in the ICU with my Mom in sedation next to me, and in my Mom and Dad's living room with my Father in a completely different type of Sedation) and wondering if I would ever see her again. I didn't for the life of me know the answer. I miss her more than words could ever possibly express.

Christmas Present Crafts

2007-12-18T16:51:00.000-05:00

These are some monsters and a gnome I made for Christmas presents. I like the Blue one with the star the best! He's for Michael, and I love him!!!He was so much fun to make!

2007-12-04T11:09:00.000-05:00

My lovely scarf!

2007-11-21T09:36:00.000-05:00

I finished my scarf!!!!Just in time for the first snow:) I'm so excited to be able to show it off. I finally learned to use stitch holders at the end of the turning chain, so it looks much nicer than the first one I tried and unraveled. I will be making one for Michael and Geoff (if he wants one). This weekend my Mother in Law will be teaching me to make hats, so I'll have a hat to match! Pray for a safe trip for us, it will be a snowy slushy mess by the time we get out of here, so we'll need it!

Turkey Day

2007-11-20T08:35:00.000-05:00

Thursday is turkey day. I can't wait for all the food and family! I'm taking my crochet and knitting stuff down to St. Louis so my MIL can help me learn to crochet on the round and maybe help me knit that way too!. I want to make a hat, and since she makes hat for babies in the hospital, she will be able to help me with this.
When I see Christina in December, she'll be able to help me too! What I really need is for all my Sisters to live with me so I can use all of their talents!!! Christina for her sewing and crochet, Theresa for her scrap booking, Alison for her willingness to try anything and to help other people. I also need my Mother in Law here, she knows how to do EVERYTHING!!!
I'm almost finished with my crochet scarf, It looks pretty good. I learned I need to use a stitch marker when turning rows. That way I end up with a straight line instead of a trapezoid looking thing!I'll take pics when I finish, probably won't be until after the little Holiday we're taking though. I won't have access to a computer while in St. Louis, but I'll take lots of pictures of the action:)
I'm using the ProvoCraft Ergonomic handles Crochet hook set and it works wonderfully! When I used the regular hooks, my hands got very stiff and swollen very quickly. With these hooks, that doesn't happen as quickly, so if anyone is thinking about them, get them. Most craft stores have them now and you can get a 50% off coupon and then they're only about 10 bucks, and totally worth it. I just wish they made other hook sizes for them.....Here's the link: http://www.provocraft.com/products/detail.php?cl=knifty%20knitter&scl=needlecrafts&cat=&item=21-0246

Sick again, knitting again, travelling again

2007-11-15T07:28:00.000-05:00

So, Michael is sick, again. It seems he's been sick for the past three months and I might just go crazy because of it. My normally independent little boy turns into a clingy, emotional(well he IS two) little boy whenever he runs a fever or gets a boo boo. These boo boos are bad. He's got blisters in his mouth and on his hands and on his feet. It's called hand, foot and mouth disease. No, it's not the same as hoof and mouth disease (mad cow). It's highly contagious and he probably got it from swimming lessons, so we've been pretty much quarantined this week. I've run a few errands, but haven't had contact with other people all week long (I did go to scrap booking on Tuesday, so I guess that's something). More importantly is that he hasn't eaten all week. I suppose if I had jelly bean sized blisters on my tongue, I wouldn't have much of a desire to eat either! Things are looking up though, yesterday he ate five bananas, a couple of cheese sticks, two bowls of applesauce and some Mac and Cheese. That's the most he's eaten since Saturday. So keep praying, hopefully we won't be going to the doctor again anytime soon:)

I knitted another washcloth. This one turned out very well. It's just a red washcloth with a Christmas Stocking Pattern, but it's very nice. I might keep this one for myself:) I also got the Stitch n Bitch book from the Library, I think I'm putting it on my Christmas List. I can't wait till I get better, I don't think I'll get faster, but I will get better! The picture doesn't show the stocking very well, but I'm sure you can see it a little:)

For those of you who are wondering, I will be doing Thanksgiving in St. Louis this year. Most of the the family will be there (Minus two SILs and one BIL, who will be missed). It will be an eating, gabbing, love extravaganza. I'm very excited about it. Once again, I am so very blessed to have a set of in laws that I actually get excited to see! I think everyone should try it.

I cut my hair again, soooooooooooo short. It's so much easier and I don't think I will ever go back. I don't like my long hair, I have to do to much to it. So I took that ten inches and shipped it off to some organization to make a wig out of it. Now I've got about an inch of hair all over my head. Everyone should try this once too!

My very first washcloth!!!!

2007-11-10T10:38:00.000-05:00

If you look closely, theres a skull and crossbones on the washcloth. I counted wrong a few times, but I blame Michael and Geoff for that:) Most exciting about it? My hands didn't get horrible on me. Don't get me wrong. They hurt a little more today, but my shoulder hurts just as bad. I think this may work!!!!!!!!

A Stitch, or knit, in Time

2007-11-09T07:12:00.001-05:00

Well, I think I've done it!
First, I learned how to use a sewing machine (Thank You Shannon!!!!). I will definitely continue to get better with that. I'm working on a couple of projects for Christmas presents right now.
Then, my truly wonderful mother in law, got me started on yet another craft. Most of you know by now that I have Rheumatoid Arthritis. I've had it since I was five. Well, my MIL calls me up. Tells me she just saw an article about how knitting is good therapy for arthritic hands. I, of course, had already heard this well over a hundred times. The more we discuss it, however, the more I start to think I may be able to do it.My Grandma tried to teach me crochet when I was around ten, but between my hands starting to hurt and me not being the most patient girl in the world, I stopped by the time I was 12.
I did a little searching on Craftster.org. If you don't know about this site, and you like to do lots of different crafts, go there, join, make friends. It's wonderful!!!!!I found a couple people who had arthritis who knit and I asked for some advice. Both people e-mailed me with great tips. One of them posted on another board she belongs to and came up with lots of advice from other people:)(THANK YOU!!!!).
Once I got all these positive remarks, I decided I should at least try again. Whats the worst that could happen? I would be out a few bucks for knitting needles. I got a couple books from the library,a couple needles from Wal-Mart and a nice warm cup of Chai and sat down on the couch with a pillow in my lap (that was one of the suggestions, so your arms and hands don't have to hold themselves up). After about and hour, I had my first cast on row done. After two hours I had about 10 knit rows done. Mind you, it's not very pretty, but I did do it. I think I will get better. After two hours, my hands were a little achie, so I decided to call it a night. I woke up this morning feeling great! Thank God for Enbrel and for people to give me tips!!!!!!!!I will post pictures after I have gotten something actually completed. I'm gonna go try the purl stitch next.
The reason I really want to learn to knit and/or crochet it to be able to give back a little. When Mom was in the Hospital last December, one of the nurses came up to me and gave me a Prayer Shawl. She said that she was a member of the Prayer Shawl Ministry at her church and, after seeing me there with my Mother in the ICU for a week, she thought I would benefit from it. It touched me deeper than I ever thought possible. She let me know that the women in the group pray over the yarn, and pray the entire time their making the shawls. They pray that God will bring peace to the person who receives the shawl. I want to do that. I want to help people who are suffering and struggling. So often, while Mom was in the hospital and after she died, I picked up that shawl and remembered that God brought that nurse to me in my time of need to remind me that He was still there. It really is a wonderful feeling:)
The nurse in the hospital is why I started making the no-sew fleece blankets for the kids in the hospital too! She really did a lot for me. I can't believe I can't even remember her name. She wasn't one of Mom's nurses, she was just one of the many nurses in the ICU. I do remember her face and her actions though.
OK. End of my ramble. I must go learn the purl now......

Wonders of Wonders

2007-10-29T16:26:00.000-04:00

Well, we made it through the weekend. Had a really great time with family, and we lived through the car ride to and from.
Michael only got car sick once. We were still in the city, and we said to me, Mommy, I throw up. When I looked in the rear view mirror at my son, I realized that he had actually thrown up. he wasn't just telling me a story about how he threw up in the car two months ago (Toddlers have this great way of remembering things from a long time ago, but then not remembering that you told them two minutes ago not to jump off the living room table). Pulled over into the walgreens, changed Michael's clothes in the front seat of our car while he was waving and saying hello to every passer-by. He is NOTHING if not friendly. Got on the road and made pretty good time. In the 4 1/2 hours, he didn't throw up again and actually slept for about an hour. this kid NEVER sleeps in the car.
When we got to our first of two big parties in old St. Louie, Michael was a hit. Hugging people he hadn't seen in two years, saying all the necessary please ad thank you's, and only jumping off things that were of reasonable heights. The coolers, the benches. He didn't even hit the puppies too hard. All around, a good time was had. We left that party at about eight. Michael was in bed, asleep, no later than nine. I have a really great kid!!!!
Got to work on the party when I got the baby to bed. I didn't have many duties, so it was all pretty relaxing. Got to talk to my mom-in-law a lot. I am truly blessed to have a wonderful family of in-laws. I don't know of anyone who loves their in-laws as much as I love mine, and I wouldn't have it any other way!
My Brother in law and sister in law got in about eleven that night and we talked to a little while and got to bed around one. Once again, a good time was had by all!
Grandma and Granpa's 60th anniversary party on Saturday went off with very few hitches. Everybody was where they were supposed to be, all the food was where it was supposed to be, and everything was pretty much in place. We got to watch some great old home movies. Those kind of movies that make you wish for much simpler times and more times with family. The food was great, the company was amazing, and Michael was still saying his please and thank you's.
I learned my son is no longer afraid of cake, icing, or cookies. I should have known that it couldn't last. I found out that he can jump off anything he can climb up on. I also learned that he isn't really afraid of dogs, not even 60 pound chocolate labs that could topple him over in a second. I sometimes wonder if he's missing the part of his brain that would make him scared of things that are so much bigger than him. He really is fearless, and strong. I think this is a bad combination for a two year old. Ihave been told that it's normal. But I still think it's bad...He had a great time, so did I.
We left Sunday morning at about 10:30. Michael slept for 2 and a half hours on the way home. He better be careful, I might get spoiled by all this sleeping in the car! We got home and ate a very bad-for-you dinner and Michael was in bed by seven. I love bed time. I did no cleaning up, no working and pretty much no talking the rest of the night. A glorius time was had by all!!!!!
So now it's back to the hustle and bustle. Up at six, work until seven thirty, shower, get the baby up, feed him, answer the door for the three year old I babysit for, play games, snack, more games, lunch, NAP for kids while I work, get kids up, husband comes home, other kid gets picked up, husband and baby go out while I work and make dinner, dinner, bath, bed for kid and more work for me, or scrapbooking, or blanket making, or , well I'm sure you get the picture. In there somewhere, I also clean the house, kiss boo boos, read, do Bible study,pay bills,......It's never ending, but I wouldn't have it any other way!!

Nobody reads this anyway

2007-10-25T06:54:00.000-04:00

OK. I haven't written on this thing in a very long time. Nobody knows about it, so it probably doesn't matter. Things are really pretty good here.

Michael is FINALLY over croup. Who gets croup at nearly three years old? My normally independent, "Mommy, let me do it myself" little boy has become a "Mommy do it please. Mommy, hold my hand". I used to wonder what it would be like to have a child that actually wanted to be touched. I want to go back. NOW!!!!! Don't get me wrong. I love this child more than anything. And it is very nice to cuddle with him for a change (even as an infant he didn't want to be held). But knowing that he is only being this way because he's sick, just irritates me. I want him to be all better so we can get back to the " Mommy, you're walking too close!" The nose has stopped running, the cough doesn't sound so horrifying and the temperature has been normal for 3 whole days. Hallelujah!!!!!!!!

We're going to St. Louis this weekend for my husbands grandparents 60th anniversary party. Last check, the RSVP list was for 87 people. Gonna be fun:) I really am excited about it. The las time we were there, was 8 months ago yesterday. The day I got a call from my Mom's surgeon telling me she only had a few hours to live. I got on a plane, and while in the airport, I got a call from my uncle saying that she had passed. 8 months ago yesterday. That old cliche about time flying when you're having fun? It also flies when you're not having fun.

OK, enough sappy, wipe your eyes stuff. i need to get over myself! We leave tomorrow morning. After my husband's 8:30am meeting. A meeting he has on a day he wasn't supposed to be working at all. I'll pick him up from the meeting and we'll head straight down 55 and be there in about 5 hours. Then, off to Uncle Herb's 50th Birthday party. At a camp ground. With Hot Dogs and Hamburgers and BBQ stuff. Let the Boys run around for a couple hours and off to Grandma's, or Hotel Grandma. Our reservations have been made and Michael get's his very own closet! (I promise, it's actually a room, just used mostly for storage, he cannot sleep in a room with another person!) Then an all day party on Saturday. Geoff likes to leave early on Sunday's. So, not only will we not be going to church, but we'll still need to be out of the house by 9:00am. He hates coming back into the city in the evening. Something about traffic......blah blah blah!

Totally change the subject now! I'm doing well on the Enbrel shot. I'm taking it twice a week instead of once a week and that seems to be working for me. On bad day's I still need to take additional medicine for pain, but for the most part, I wake up without much morning stiffness and am not a crazy person because of the pain. Still a crazy person, just not for that reason. My sinuses are acting up, and the doc says that's one of the side effects of the drug, so now we'll add a nasal inhaler to the long medicine list. I'm also get my ver own verson of croup, but for adults. The doc says that as long as I don't run a fever, it will all be fine. If I start running a fever, I have to stop giving myself a shot until the fever goes away. Then the pain starts again. If infection sets in, automatic antibiotics, possibly the IV kind and lots of worrying by my husband will ensue. So pray that doesn't happen. He already stays far far away from me when he has a cough or a runny nose. I haven't read the side effects portion of this drug. I don't want to talk myself into any of the side effects. My husband did read them. And he's a nervous wreck! And he's not the worrying kind, I swear!

I started a new Bible study about 6 weeks ago. If you're a female and in the west suburbs of Chicago, you should definitely check this out!!! They have childcare and it's two hours a week and it really is an awesome experience. let me know if you want more information!

New family pic taken in August

Let's Try Again

2007-03-16T14:55:00.000-04:00

Michael in Daddy's Cowboy Boots

I started this blog about 2 years ago and never really did anything with it, so here I go again!

Good Stuff:

My life right now is a little hectic. I've been taking care of my friend's son Sebastian for about a year now. He's two and a half and a very well natured boy. My son Michael has a lot of fun with him.

Michael will be two on April 1st. He's a handful. He's favorite things are Fraggle Rock and Climbing anything that isn't supposed to be climbed. He is a very loving boy. He will give hugs when asked and sometimes kisses too. He is now feeding himself very well and talking. My husband and I are usually the only ones who understand him (Geoff does need a little translating once in a while).

I have a husband (as mentioned above). His name is Geoff and, we have been married almost five years. He's a pretty great guy. He comes home from work and takes Michael for a couple of hours so I can work.

Oh yeah, I also work part-time from home for the company I worked for before I got pregnant. I do that about thirty hours a week. Currently I have two real jobs and I have a son and a family. This means that I work almost all the time. I do try to find a little time for fun though.

I'm addicted to scrapbooking and getting to that point with Stamping. I take my son to the Zoo as often as possible. I meet up with friends at least one night a week to scrapbook or just hang out. I try to go to the gym 3 days a week. I read every time I have even just five minutes to spare.

In general, I really do love my life.

Bad Stuff:

About a month ago, my Mother passed away at the age of 54. She had been sick for a very long time, but somehow that doesn't make this much easier. I miss her and I don't think I've stopped thinking about her once. I know she made it to heaven and I know I'll see her again, but I still miss her. I find myself talking to her, but I have been told that's normal, so I don't feel too crazy.

That's my life in a nutshell. i don't know how often I'll write or what I'll be writing about. But you can be sure there will always be pictures on Michael.

Take Care!