Extremely sad news.
Received an email from Bryce's mom today regarding the outcome of tests and his surgery for the brain tumor he was diagnosed with last month.
Hello everyone,
Bryce's new diagnosis is not a good one. We returned to MD Anderson on Tuesday for Bryce's surgical follow-up.
He had a battery of tests to check on his cognitive skills following this massive surgery. His staples were removed --
all 43 of them. The update on the surgery was that approximately 85% of the tumor was removed. All involved
felt that the surgery was an amazing success as it took so much of the tumor while leaving Bryce completely intact,
physically and cognitively. The MRI is quite stunning. The entire front 1/3 of Bryce's right side brain is gone. It is
so unbelievable that he is functioning so normally with this large area just gone! No, it will not refill -- the area is
filling with spinal fluid and will remain that way. Bryce thinks the MRI pics are just amazing. I can't look at them.
The diagnosis has changed to a glioblastoma multiforme. There were a small number of these cells, but the World
Health Organization staging of tumors requires that the highest staging of any cells requires the tumor to be staged
at that high number. All of this is somewhat subjective and the two physicians in the room as well as the pathologist
seem to have a slightly different take on the staging of the tumor. The gist of this is that Bryce's tumor is generally
thought to be malignant and much faster growing that we first thought. They also surmise that the gliobastoma cells
just began -- the tumor has recently transformed from an anaplastic astrocytoma to a glioblastoma. There is so much
guess work here.
They are calling this a stage 3 tumor (1-4 being the rating). A glioblastoma multiforme is the worst case scenario of
gliomas. Dr. Levine told us that the survival rate is 10% at five years. Obviously, devastating news. However, our
son Scott (he is a physician) did some research and feels that this number is very, very low. There are many cases
of patients who are out-living this prediction. Particularly, Bryce's age and great health to this point will be in his favor.
Scott spoke to an oncologist who works with patients who have this type of tumor and the oncologist tells him that
there are huge advances being made on brain tumor research. Dr. Levine has also mentioned to us that five years
ago there were virtually no people with a 5 year survival from this type of tumor -- so althought 10% is an awful number,
it is a huge advance in only 5 years. BTW, Dr. Levine was Bryce's surgeon at MD Anderson.
Today, we head to Oklahoma City to meet a radiation oncologist who Dr. Levin (our neuro-oncologist at MD Anderson)
referred us to. Dr. Levin will be directing the radiation treatments and feels Dr. Algon in OKC is very, very qualified to
do the incredibly technical treatments. The remaining tumor is very close to Bryce's optic nerve and to his brain stem.
Dr. Algon was trained at the Mayo Clinic. Dr. Levin and Dr. Algon are both Badgers (U of Wisconsin) -- although there
is quite an age difference. Bryce's treatments will be 5 days a week for 6 weeks.
In addition, Bryce will be taking Temodar which is an oral chemotherapy designed especially for the treatment of brain
tumors. He begins the chemo the night before his first radiation treatment which will probably be Monday, June 22nd.
There is exhaustion and nausea associated with these treatments, but other complications are not expected. He will
take the chemo for 42 days.
How are we doing? Bryce is getting better every day and seems to be handling the news pretty well. At least better
than the rest of us. This news is very new to us, but I go between extreme anger and grief to hope and belief that
Bryce can beat this. I do know that our entire family is committed to having great days ahead with lots of fun and laughter.
We probably wouldn't have made the decision financially to have our family vacation this year, but it was already scheduled
and paid for, so we also have that to look forward to. We did have to change our date, but the house we have rented had
a week open in August and transferred us to that week. So, Fripp, here we come!
We will need lots of prayers. We know that God provides miracles every day. We need a miracle! We pray for this through
the medical hands and minds who will treat Bryce and all others who face this terrible disease. Especially we want prayers
that Bryce will not have pain and will keep his spirits high. All of us who surround Bryce need strength and we ask for your
prayers as well.
Feel free to call or come by the house. Bryce is getting tired of his boring old parents!
Thanks to all our friends and family for everything.
Love,
Debi
xoxo
Per usual, Bryce's outlook on everything is quite upbeat. His facebook status reports today that it was "not such great news. But we are going to kick cancer's ass."
Yes, you will, Bryce! We send you all our love and thoughts of healing.
What a vacation will do to the mind....and the heart.
J and I took a vacation for nine days. Nine whole days, sans-baby. We let go of the parental steering wheel and handed over the controls to the grandparents. It was the hardest thing we've done as parents, but also the most rewarding thing we have done for our relationship since she was born.
We had an amazing time, with three vacations packed into one. 2 days in Vegas, 3 in Seattle, one night in Carson, and three nights camping at Sasquatch Music Festival at The Gorge.
We saw some pretty amazing things, so I'm going to have to split this post up into several, as to not overwhelm you. I can tell you, though...it felt great. We turned off the Blackberry (but left our iphone on for emergency calls/emails). We took our laptop, but only to convert videos and photos we took on our trip. We turned on the television only one night (to watch the American Idol Finale, duh). We spent a lot of time playing Scrabble on the Iphone (and the board game version in Carson). We spent even more time walking, hiking, seeing sites, sitting down to nice dinners, cuddling by the fire, taking gorgeous drives and of course, seeing some fantastic music.
It was great to remove all the stress of the day-to-day, and reconnect with each other. It is good to know, that we have a great foundation and to revisit that foundation for nine whole days.
Bryce's Biopsy
I wanted to share some great news with everyone. But first, the backstory...a not-so-great email we received on the 2nd from my mom's first cousin (we're a very close family).
Hi everyone,
Facebook seems fairly inappropriate for this, but calling everyone seems more difficult. We had some very sad news today concerning our 26 year old son, Bryce.
About three weeks ago, Bryce had a seizure in the middle of the night. No one saw it and Bryce couldn't remember it, but he was bruised and extremely sore the next day. Bryce lives with our oldest son, Scott and our two grandchildren, Hannah and Gabrielle, in Bentonville, AR. Scott is a physician and so had some tests ordered. Those tests came back normal and after consulting with other docs, decided not to pursue more invasive and expensive procedures. This past Sunday night, Bryce had another seizure similar to the first. So an appointment was made with a neurologist for next week. Then, last night Scott witnessed bizarre behavior from Bryce that led him to believe that we needed to move faster with a diagnosis.
Bryce had a C-scan early this morning. We were all shocked to learn that he has a brain tumor. An MRI was immediately scheduled for a couple of hours later. Scott was able to get Bryce an appointment with a neurological surgeon in Tulsa at 2 pm this afternoon. Roger, Ross and I met Scott and Bryce in Tulsa for the appointment.
So, if there is good news when you have a brain tumor........
He has an oligodendroglioma high in the right frontal lobe of his brain. Scott says if you have to have a brain tumor this is the kind you want. There is a 75% survival rate at 5 years for this type of tumor. This doesn't sound great until you realize that those numbers include all ages, people who are not very young, people who have other health risks, etc. Bryce has his youth, his excellent health, the relative good placement of the tumor, all in his favor. Also, it does not appear that this tumor is malignant. This is an extremely slow growing tumor.
The not so good news...... The tumor is quite large. 8 x 6 centimeters. The doctors were actually surprised that we had not noticed any behavioral changes in Bryce. Operating on this type of tumor is not recommended. There is the chance of doing harm to his brain. The main symptoms of this type of tumor is seizure. He will be on seizure medications for the rest of his life, barring some wonderful new medical treatment. Frequent MRIs will also be ordered to be sure the tumor doesn't change.
The treatment.... Bryce has been placed on seizure medication with the hopes of getting control of these seizures. He is taking steroids to hopefully reduce the edema (swelling) in his brain. Next Wednesday, the 29th, Bryce will have a biopsy done. This is an invasive procedure, drilling a small hole into his skull. There will be an active MRI going on during the surgery so the physician can see where he is placing the needle. Several areas of the tumor will be sampled. We will have the results in 3-5 days. He will be in the ICU following the procedure, then on to the surgical floor for about one day. They are keeping him so they can watch for bleeding in the brain which is a side effect of the biopsy.
Bryce is in very good spirits and as Scott said he is taking this news better than the rest of us. My sons started in on the 'tumor jokes' right away. What does your tumor think about that? Just think, if either of you two ever get a tumor, mine is the biggest. Oh, you go first, tumor boy. Man, I bet you feel bad about the way you treated me when we were kids, knowing I have this tumor and all. It got worse and I'm sure it will only continue.
And because we can't have just one family emergency, my dad is having open heart surgery, probably this Thursday. He needs a mitral valve repair or replacement. His surgery will take place in Oklahoma City. We were on our way to see his surgeon when Scott called with the news about Bryce. It has been a difficult day.
We need your prayers. I am home tomorrow so if you want, you may call. Bryce is also probably home tomorrow. Also on the good news side, Bryce, Scott and friends had a trip planned to Las Vegas for this weekend. The doctor said he can go! He, of course, is not allowed any alcohol -- his mother has no problem with that -- and he's just thrilled he still gets to go. No calls on Thursday, please, as Dad will most likely be in surgery.
I will update you on Dad and Bryce when we know more. Thanks to all of you for your good wishes and prayers.
Deb
xoxo
Followed by an update sent out today:
Yesterday, we got our report from Dr. Wilson on Bryce's biopsy. We have a change in diagnosis. Bryce's tumor is a low grade oligoastrocytoma (WHO grade II).
First the World Health Organization grade II -- There is a standard rating of tumors, grades I - IV. Dr. Wilson says a grade I is "is this even a tumor". He has never seen a grade I. So, this is good news. It says that this tumor is "about as benign as they get". Obviously great news.
An oligoastrocytoma is a mixed glioma. There are four classes of gliomas: oligodendrogliomas, astrocystomas, anaplastic astrocystomas, and glioblastoma multiforme. These are in order, least malignant and lethal to more malignant and lethal. So, we have a mix of an oligo and an astrocytoma.
This tumor can do one of three things: it can continue to grow so slowly that with seizure medication it might not be a problem for Bryce for a number of years; it can begin growing more rapidly and become a larger problem very soon; it can de-compensate and become aggressive and malignant.
Dr. Wilson has released Bryce as a patient and is sending us to MD Anderson. We already had an appointment there, but nice to know that this was Dr. Wilson's recommendation as well. Dr. Wilson is positive that there may be new treatments available for the treatment of his tumor. We are also seeing a neurosurgeon in Dallas on Friday to get his opinion.
Bryce is off steroids as of yesterday and is feeling much more like himself. Nasty stuff, those steroids. He is tired and ready to move forward in this fight.
The entire family is very positive about Bryce's complete recovery. We need your prayers. Yes, please put Bryce on the prayer chains you are a part of -- we know the power of prayer in our home.
You may feel free to contact Bryce via email. brycemusick@hotmail.com
He is staying here at our home at this time. 1214 HIckory, Weatherford, OK 73096
He isn't able to work because of the medications but hopes to return to work soon.
Friends of Bryce who have his phone number, call him. He would love to talk to you.
Thanks for all your good wishes and prayers.
Debi, Roger, Scott, Hannah, Gabrielle, Ross, Kendra, Jordan, Casey, Cierra, Fitz, and Bryce
xoxo
Summer Vacation
Scooter is getting ready to go on her first summer vacation at her grandparent's house. She'll be in the Top 'o Texas for a full week without her mommy and daddy. We would be going crazy, but we're going to be preoccupied with our own summer vacation. We leave the day before she does, heading to Seattle and Sasquatch Music Festival via Las Vegas, Nevada! Oh, who am I kidding, we are going to go a little crazy without our little girl. We haven't been apart from her for more than a couple of overnight stays with Meemaw or Aunt Allie, and I know how hard it is to do that!
Things we plan on doing to keep ourselves busy: buffets, gambling, staying out late, sleeping in early, going to museums, dining at fine restaurants, catching some local music, camping, hiking, staying at a B&B, shopping, seeing the sites, riding a ferry, throwing some fish, and running into old friends. We'll be apart for almost ten days, so we have a lot planned to keep us as busy as possible.
We love you Scout-Scout! We'll miss you incredibly, but we also know you'll have a ton of fun with your Marmie and Papa! xoxoxo!
oh the cuteness...and the shaky camera.
Watch it in HD. Yay Vado camera! And yeah, I know...it's almost five minutes long. But ask me if I care.
Mother's Day #2!
Happy Mother's Day to all you mommies out there! I hope your day was filled with sweet kisses and hugs and alleviated diaper duty. We had another wonderful Mother's day, here at the hizouse.
J and S let me sleep in this morning until 9 a.m....which might have been the best treat of all. Then, I awoke to Einstein bagels and coffee and mother's day presents and cards. I am blessed to have such a thoughtful and sweet little girl!
We then prepared ourselves for a day of biking and outdoor activities. J outfitted my bike with my new distance/calorie counter and we loaded up the bikes, trailer and baby and headed south the the Veloway. It was such a nice afternoon for riding! We observed the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower center and trucked through the Veloway trail. I'm rather proud of myself for pulling the baby and making it out alive! I didn't make it all the way up the big hill, but I'm hoping to be better prepared next time!
Then, we went to the SoCo Food trailers and enjoyed some Hudson On The Bend Mighty Cones and Hey Cupcake! cupakes. :D After a short nap, we aired-up Scout's swimming pool and she donned her new polka-dotted bikini and we spent some time in the backyard and splashed in the pool!
I'll post some pics and video this afternoon...must go change out the laundry and a dirty diaper! Back to real life!
A note about sleep.
Sleep is important for many reasons, and honestly? I thought once Scout started sleeping through the night, I would be SOOO well rested. Back to my "old self." No more bags under the eyes. No more grumpy mornings. Loads of energy.
Lately, it's not been the case. After reading about cases where Chinese drywall has led to illness, I'm beginning to question our walls. ;) Okay, not really. But, what the heck is up with my lack of feeling well-rested?
I'm hoping that in a couple of weeks, when we go on our baby-free vacation (sad, I know)...I'll be able to sleep. Yeah right. ha. I'm already counting on being rundown and worrisome the entire time we're gone. Funny, how I used to tease and taunt Jay about how he can't relax...even on vacation. Doh!
So, with that...I'm going to assess our room's Feng Shui and see what I'm doing wrong. I'm pretty sure the pile of laundry at the foot of our bed is messing with our chi.
Internet love.
Happy birthday, JB!
To the best husband, friend, and daddy on the block. Here's to another fun year!
We're in the clear....
No swine flu here! Just a little tummy bug. She's doing better now, eating solids and holding down liquid. Everything looks on the up and up!
when your baby calls a puking rally at 3 pm....
The first thing you do is, *gag* "what's that smell?"
Then, the next thing you know, you're flinging doors open, screaming at the hubby to call 911 and everyone is covered in vomit.
Calm and level-headed, I am not.
Kiddo is doing okay, I think it might have just been something we ate? By dinner, we were keeping down fluids and tried some applesauce and toast. Everything is looking on the up and up, but we are going to Doctor Cav just to check in the morning.
I'm not even going to go into my irrational thoughts about pigs and flus.
Two vids of the babe
Vid one is of Scooter and dad enjoying an episode of Yo Gabba Gabba. Who is more enthralled with the show? I don't know. We are all pretty big fans here. Watch them get their wiggles out. Then you'll see how a 22 pound baby gets a grown man off of her pillow.
THEN...some baby tricks. These are the only two I could get her to do. BUT, you do get to hear her favorite word: "DANCE!"
Give this photo a title.
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If I like your title the best, I'll send you 2 free AMC movie passes. Or something else I find lying around my house. ;)
Sick Dancing Orange Juice
Oh my goodness. SO, my life lately can be described by one word: snotty. Allergies have led to one heck of a sinus infection, complete with chest cough. SO, yeah. Baby S has not been affected, which is nice.
J has been busy busy busy busy busy busy busy with work and had to work straight through Easter weekend, so he didn't really get to enjoy my parents being in town, which is sad. But, I did get to spend lots of quality time with mom, which always feels a little bit nicer when I am sick (no matter how old I get).
Something that has been especially annoying lately is that stupid Tropicana commercial with the actress (what's her name?) who is dancing around in the kitchen to "She's a Lady." Oh my goodness, no one feels that good in the morning. AND no one, I mean NO ONE, feels that good about their orange juice. But, it does have one redeeming quality....it makes Scooter squeal with delight and shout "Dance Dance!" That is quickly followed up by a spastic clap dance that I really should catch on video...if J will ever bring back our camera to the house.
Moms on Oprah
So I'm a big fan of moms everywhere, duh. Thus being true, I was super psyched to see moms from the Momversation videos were going to be on Oprah, including Dooce, Karen, Melinda, and others (sorry, can't remember all).
The episode was great, but the more I thought about it, the more I got a little peeved. I mean, Oprah is known for being a little....how do you say it...."over the top?!" BUT, wasn't it just a big negative pity-party? So yeah, parenting is hard! It's not just hard for the moms (although, probably for most moms, it is)...but it is hard for the dads too. Men feel disillusioned as to what they expected from their lives, it's not just women. Everyone feels that.
So now is the time (as my mom would so blatantly put it) to put on our big girl panties and get glad!
*Waking up early sucks, but how much do we love our morning coffee, and those first snuggly moments with our little sleepy-heads? I know for a fact that Scout is stinkin' adorable early in the morning. When you walk into her room and she looks at you and points and says "GIOADOGJSDFJDFSIDIFJSDLJD," it makes it all worth while.
*So you're constantly juggling your work, baby, and home schedules. That's what life is about. You make plans, you take lessons, you teach your kids things, you spend time with them and you have to work to be able to do all of those things. It's a vicious cycle, but it is one that gives you purpose.
*So you are feeling unappreciated and struggling with your new identity as a parent or a provider. Ask for some recognition...maybe your partner is feeling at a loss. Maybe you need to give some cues. Take some time to yourself and regroup, but then dive back in! Get your feet wet! And the identity thing...someone on the Oprah show said it best...DON'T FIGHT IT! Re-invent yourself. You ARE a parent. It is a maddening thing, but it is a wonderful thing, too.
Now, don't get me wrong, I'm not saying that the hardships don't deserve their acknowledgment, too. I'm just saying that if you focus on the negative, you're going to reap the negative. Take delight in the small moments and cherish them. Remember them. Hold on to them in the dark times, and you're going to be alright. Have some belly laughs. Roll in the floor with your kiddos (dogs enjoy this activity also). Go outside for a jog, a walk, or a bike ride and get some Spring-time sun on your cheeks. Sing a silly song and dance.
What are some things that get you through your hard days? What do you do to relieve a little stress? Share your thoughts below, and I'll pick a random winner who will receive a lifetime of free E-Hugs from yours truly. :D
Or just cry in the shower. ;)
lack of posts: symptom of allergies?
Sorry for the recent lack of posts...all I've been able to think of lately is my battle with pollen! I made a doctor's appointment today, after having my eyes swollen for 18 hours straight...and counting. It looks like I got in a fight...and lost!
I'll keep you posted...hopefully.
a blog post to a blog....
Check out www.brittanilouise.com to see a feature on Scout! Thanks again, Mrs. O for taking such amazing pictures of our little ham!
How to keep a dog off the couch:
Pile a bunch of pillows, laptops, books, baby toys ontop of couch...no room for doggy!
Next up: How to keep a dog off the chair....
And now for the collective "ahhhh!"
What a productive weekend! Ahhh! Feels GOOD! Jay and I FINALLY got the garage cleaned out and allllll of the holiday decorations are now back in their rightful places in the attic. Geez, it only took us four months? When I started work on our garage, I could barely move around b/c of all of the bikes, strollers and other baby goods, boxes of decorations and baby clothes, and leftovers from replacing our floors. Finally, though, you could park our car in the garage! And everything is ORGANIZED. AND the dreadful old carpet has been hauled away! Now to tackle that pile of clean laundry on my bed....
The fabulous Brittani Louise is at it again!!!
Click here to see Baby's 12 month pics!
Thanks britt, those pics of her in the grass were exactly what I was picturing in my head....and the way you caught all of her little expressions and funny personality...is priceless. You cannot put any sort of value on pictures like these!
Thanks britt, those pics of her in the grass were exactly what I was picturing in my head....and the way you caught all of her little expressions and funny personality...is priceless. You cannot put any sort of value on pictures like these!
No blizzards here....
Mom and dad are experiencing blizzard conditions, and we are basking in the 80-degree sun! Hard to believe we live in the same state. Though we aren't having any crazy weather at the moment, earlier this week, the aTx did get some crazy hail. Most of everyone I know now has a dented car, at the least. Some people lost entire windshields and will be getting new rooftops on their houses.
Freaky weather!
Check out our friend's Jetta:
Some info here and there....
Lots of things going on...spring has sprung! With the first day of Spring, we celebrated my brother's birthday. We also celebrated the arrival of pollen! My allergies have once again been fully affected. I didn't have any problem with them while I was pregnant/nursing...I wonder why that is? But here I am, all stuffy, watery-eyed and itchy-mouthed. The grass is starting to turn green, trees and flowers are blooming and Austin-ites are consuming local honey at new rates. :D The only thing I hate worse than the cedar is....SPIDERS! The first of our 8-legged friends made his appearance on our porch last night when I arrived home with arms full of groceries. Ick. Already!?
Scooty is growing, growing, growing. We've FINALLY made the switch to "people food." She is currently enjoying some Cheerios and raisins for her morning snack. We celebrated her 13 month with a Little Einstein's Scooter. We were so shocked when she knew EXACTLY how to make it move. I love watching her play, especially the older she gets. You can really see her mind cranking!
March was the month of weddings, and we are finally settling back into a routine. Congrats to Chris and Sarah, Laura and Brad, and Lori and Anthony! Here's a pic of E and myself after Laura and Brad's nuptials.
March in Austin also means South By Southwest was in town. Jay got to take in some new music at the Don't Mess With Texas Fest in Waterloo Park on Saturday. While he was doing that, my bro (D) and I enjoyed an Austin City Limits taping with Ben Harper and the Relentless7. I'll let you know the airdate and you should all watch, b/c I'm sure we'll be on television, dancing up a storm (front row, baby!).
Also, in blog-news...I've uploaded some of my OLLLLLLD blogs from good ol' myspace onto this blog. You can check them out in 2005 and there's more on up into 2006/2007.
Happy Spring!
Things to do:
Realize what you did wrong.
Take responsibility for your actions.
Accept the punishment for wrong actions.
Seek heartfelt forgiveness.
Rinse and do not repeat.
We learned a valuable lesson today....
When one hears baby quietly playing in room, content with being alone....check on baby. Baby may have found brand new bag of 500 wipes and MIGHT be emptying them on her bedroom floor.
You might then have to learn how to put 500 wipes back in a resealable bag.
OR part with said wipes.
oh....yeah....
ME: I get real frustrated how when sometimes I push the "on" button for the tv in the living room and the cable doesn't come on. then i can push the button "off' and then back "on" five times and it finally comes on. why is that?
J: That remote is kinda funky. I need to set up the good remote with our new cable.
ME: but it works every time in the bedroom. just not here. annoying.
J: IT’s because HDMI has a delay in the switching-the other remote will fix it. Trust me, little tech novice.
ME: you make me giggle.
Just an ordinary update.
Lots has been happening here at the house, and other places too, hence the lack of an update. In the past two weeks, we've been to two amazing weddings, thrown a bachelorette slumber party at our house, had 12 hour work projects due over the weekend, gone to an Austin Aztec soccer game, gotten 1 year pictures made for Scooty, had two sleepovers at cousin D's house, one sleepover at Mim's house, and there's another wedding this weekend that A is making an appearance as the matron-of-honor.
Baby has been in the mood for playing dress-up lately. One of her favorite activities during the day is to bring me shirts or pants from her hamper and motion for me to put them on her. She also likes to carry around a clutch purse of mommy's and put on headbands. Be afraid, be very afraid.
The adults of the casa have scheduled a retreat in May. I will be visiting Las Vegas for the first time in my life, and J couldn't be more excited to take me there. We will be there for a couple of days and then we are flying out to Seattle where we will hang out on top of the Whole Foods, walk to Pike Street Market, and check out the EMP (Experience Music Project). THEN, on the last four days of our trip, we are heading to Sasquatch Festival! We are so excited. We haven't had a vacation like this since our honeymoon in Switzerland.
We are recommending Orbitz right now b/c their hotels are 20% off when you book your airfare. Or something like that. :D
A shopping list:
Floor cleaner for laminate floors (recommendations welcome)
Shoes to wear in next week's wedding (silver, with heel that won't sink into mud)
Bachelorette party gift (something PG rated)
Wedding gift (something off registry?)
Wedding outfit (probably pants, due to clumsiness and dry skin)
Last-minute-babysitter-in-a-bottle (HELP!!!)
Shoes to wear in next week's wedding (silver, with heel that won't sink into mud)
Bachelorette party gift (something PG rated)
Wedding gift (something off registry?)
Wedding outfit (probably pants, due to clumsiness and dry skin)
Last-minute-babysitter-in-a-bottle (HELP!!!)
Tinted Windows!!
My teenage dreams have come true...
Taylor Hanson once again has a musical career. Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmbop indeed.
Hard day's night? No, just a hard night.
Let me be the first to say, nothing throws a SAHM off like 3 months of sleeping through the night interrupted by one night of shrill baby-crying for an hour, followed by an early morning. Catch all that?
Here's a translation for you in layman's terms: Scooty was up from 12-1 last night, screaming her tiny heart out and woke up at six this morning, fresh as a cucumber!
Everyone has hard nights, and this was certainly not our first. But man, it made me rethink my whole "we got this" attitude that I've been sporting around for the last three months. Even at her 1st birthday party, I felt more "with it" than I felt last night at 11:47. I made J get up with me, I was so out of it. I've never done that. In a year of parenthood, it's always been "you get up, or I do." Unless something was terribly wrong...which I can't recall a time before last night...he's always been afforded the luxury of staying asleep or only being on "binky duty." Not that this means he's been getting more sleep than I have, b/c as we all know, that's not always the case.
Well, my point of this whole thing is: baby is not ready to give up her bottle at night, yet. How did you moms handle this transition? I'm at a loss. I folded last night, after an hour of screaming and clawing her way out of the crib, diaper changing, rocking, restarting the lullaby cd, cuddling with mom, ibuprofen and a drink from the sippy cup...I fed her a bottle.
I just realized that again, I have no idea what I'm doing.
And on another note, why did we stay up until 11 o'clock watching Encino Man?
And on another "related" note, you only care about three things: Nugs, chillin' and grindage.
The end.
Nadya business
As you undoubtedly know, there have been TONS of opinions stated on numerous blogs (and news sites and at Tupperware parties and at the water cooler and in the break room and....) concerning the infamous Nadya Suleman...or as she is better known now: "Octomom."
As it as been stated elsewhere...it is reeeeeeally easy to be hypocritical and judgmental as to this woman's choices for conceiving her 14 children. Certainly, I would not wish to be in her shoes. She has a long and daunting future ahead of her and I must say, it takes a strong woman to defend her circumstances under all of the pressure of raising those kids...not to mention outside pressure from the media, her community and society in general.
It has been especially hard for J and I to cast any sort of opinion or views of our own on this woman. If you think she's crazy, maybe you think we are too. J and I had desires to start a family almost immediately after getting married. We were married in August, and certainly by Christmas...or Thanksgiving, we were starting to plan for "trying." After a couple of months of heartbreaking moments with pregnancy tests, I decided that something was probably wrong and I needed to go see my GYN. After getting blood work done, I received a call saying that we needed to go see a fertility specialist because I was not having a complete cycle every 30 days and this needed to be remedied before we could actively conceive.
I went through a battery of tests, and it turned out that all I needed to do was to take a pill (Clomid) that would "jumpstart" my reproductive organs and give me a cycle. We were made aware of the side effects of such treatment, including the chance of multiple births. Well, needless to say, Clomid worked the first time for us, and with no real side effects (other than drowsiness and a little nausea). Even something as simple as the treatment plan that we were prescribed can have unintended results and known risks.
I think there is some weight to what people are saying about the doctor in Suleman's case. He should hold some responsibility for the outcome of Suleman's treatment. But have him provide any kind of support to her and the children now? That's just kind of silly, isn't it?
This is one of those areas that are not black and white; it is a total grey area. If you cast opinions and judgments on one part of it, you are casting those same opinions on the whole of it. I hope that society's opinions of IVF, IUI and other fertility treatments are not affected after this, but fear that they may be. I hope that this doesn't make it hard for women and/or couples to seek any kind of fertility treatment for fear of being judged or thought of as nutty.
You were born on a Wednesday.
As I watch you explore your surroundings with your new-found sense of confidence, my heart beams with pride. But sadly, every night when I put you to bed, I realize that you are growing up. And that tomorrow, you'll be a day bigger and a day more independent. You'll eventually need me less and one day, you'll be embarrassed by the kisses I so freely give to your forehead and cheeks.
But today, you are only ONE. You are one. I have to pinch myself! I can't believe how quickly the year has gone by! One year ago today, you were a puffy-faced 8 lb. 13.4 oz newborn. Now you are a 22 pounder, verging on toddlerhood.
It's no surprise your first word/syllable was "Da-da." From the minute you were born, you could follow his voice through a room. At first, you were a mama's babe. But, in the last 6 months, you have developed a ridiculously adorable bond with your daddy. You follow him to the door each morning, and every day starting at 5:00 pm (sometimes earlier), you ask for him repeatedly.
You are our little athlete...you love to pick up, bounce and chase balls. Your dad's dream came true when you dribbled a toy with both feet the other day (maybe it was coincidence, but, hey...). You can crawl and climb over anything. You were an early walker...and your "crawling" left us all in stitches. You came into this world wide-eyed and observant; like a little sponge who had heard all about this wonderful place and the people who live in it, and wanted to learn more.
Your favorite things are baby dolls, books, bathtime and binkies. I like to think that you are so sweet to your babies because I have been so sweet to you. You love our puppies, and spend 50 percent of your day playing with them through the window or in person. You love to be outside.
You have three teeth and thick blonde hair, a sweet pouty lip, cheeks to die for and big, beautiful, blue eyes.
You have changed our lives, filled our hearts, kept us on our toes and wrapped us around your little finger.
Happy Birthday, Baby.
A Very Happy V-day.
Happy belated Valentine's day everybody!
We had an awesome V-day, for the very first time. It's not that we haven't tried before (in previous relationships and previous Feb. 14's with eachother....), but this one actually worked out. Our first Valentine's Day together, I was absolutely ill. I had whatever was going around the office that "winter" and had actually gone home from work and climbed in bed and gone to sleep. J woke me up with an amazing dinner and a nice potted mum, but I was too sick to even enjoy it. When ya can't even smell the flowers or taste the food, it's kind of a buzz kill. After our lovely dinner, I sent him packing and went back to sleep with a green dragon (nyquil) cocktail.
The next year, we were in the midst of buying our house and were completely freaked about spending money. I managed to get J a card, and he hand-made me the cutest card ever (as a total after-thought, but whatever).
The next year, I was overdue with baby S. So, nothing kills the romance like swollen feet and false labor.
THIS YEAR, though. J really outdid himself. He arranged for a sitter (thanks mom and A!), had fancy dinner reservations, booked a hotel stay, and took me to a movie and shopping! It was a day full of my favorite things, and I couldn't have been more surprised. To cap it all off, we met up with friends downtown after dinner and stayed out late like we were just a young couple again.
It's safe to say, this V-day is good for another three years. ;)
Awkward.....
So I recently have come to grips with SAHM-ness. I denied it for almost a full year, but you know what? I am a stay-at-home-mom. I think the thing that solidified it for me has been my enjoyment of morning t.v. programs like GMA, Today, The View, and my favorite, Ellen.
I just have one problem. Is anyone else a little freaked by the mandatory dance-off at the beginning of every Ellen show? Now, I'm as big-of-a-fan of crazy flailing of arms and kicking of feet and snapping and clapping (also known as awkward dancing) as anybody...but, man. It almost gives me a bit of anxiety during this part of the show.
eh, not like it's going to keep me from watching and enjoying.
I just have one problem. Is anyone else a little freaked by the mandatory dance-off at the beginning of every Ellen show? Now, I'm as big-of-a-fan of crazy flailing of arms and kicking of feet and snapping and clapping (also known as awkward dancing) as anybody...but, man. It almost gives me a bit of anxiety during this part of the show.
eh, not like it's going to keep me from watching and enjoying.
the past 7 days
In the past seven days, we've celebrated an 80th birthday, kicked back and went out with dear friends, tried the coconut ceviche (ooommmmmmggggg), did a week's-worth of grocery shopping, definitely got our walking skills down, contracted THREE colds, took some time off to recover, bought new floors (yipppeeee!), installed them ourselves, saw a grrrrrrrreat movie with some awesome friends, and caught up on some Jericho.
What did you do?
What did you do?
man....
Nothing makes you feel MORE out of shape than getting an email from Vicki Secrets advertising their swimsuit sale....in JANUARY. Thanks a lot honey, but I'm SOOOO not there yet. When do I get to stop using "I just had a baby" as my excuse?? Next month? eegahds. I better get to work.
HAPPY FRIDAY EVERYBODY!!!
HAPPY FRIDAY EVERYBODY!!!
Forgive the baby talk...I really want to stop. I really do.
She just gets so excited when I talk to her in a high-pitched voice! Maybe it's excitement or maybe it's anxiety. Or maybe it's just bouncy houses that make us revert to our squealing 7 yr. old selves! Either way...here's a vid of the baby at Cousin D's 4th bday party! What fun we had!
On the Eve of Change....
Growing up a young WASP in Texas, I always had desires and dreams to live in a different time, in a different place. I wanted to live in Elizabethan days, to experience the dress, the traditions and the lifestyle. I wanted to live in the 1920s to drive one of the first cars. I wanted to live in the 1960s to experience having a television for the first time. I wanted to live in the 1970s to see what life was like during the "flower power" movement.
For one of the first times, I'm excited to live in the day that I do. What a world to live in and what a time to live in it. Great change is on the horizon...not only for tomorrow, but for the 4 years to come.
I am hopeful for our economy. I am hopeful for our troops. I am hopeful for our country. I am hopeful for the rights of my neighbors and friends. I am hopeful for my daughter's future.
For one of the first times, I'm excited to live in the day that I do. What a world to live in and what a time to live in it. Great change is on the horizon...not only for tomorrow, but for the 4 years to come.
I am hopeful for our economy. I am hopeful for our troops. I am hopeful for our country. I am hopeful for the rights of my neighbors and friends. I am hopeful for my daughter's future.
an unintended use of a 26 (and a half) year old...
So here's some things I've found myself doing lately, that I probably shouldn't...because I'm probably supposed to be "past that phase."
1. saying things like "don't front."
2. staying up late to play video games (and actually doing a pretty good job)
3. learning to play golf (i really am not good...but it's still fun...really.)
4. dancing to Mix-XM songs while driving down the road
5. drinking Sparks (tho sadly, it is out of production)
6. Learning to ride a bike (again)
1. saying things like "don't front."
2. staying up late to play video games (and actually doing a pretty good job)
3. learning to play golf (i really am not good...but it's still fun...really.)
4. dancing to Mix-XM songs while driving down the road
5. drinking Sparks (tho sadly, it is out of production)
6. Learning to ride a bike (again)
I just have to say it.
I LOVE the new Kleenex ads. Freakin' love.
Touch. Touch. Touch. Touch. FEEL.
Isn't that the truth? When I see those commercials, I stop. I was having one of those moments (like in the commercial) where you are running around the house, putting up toys and cleaning stains from the carpet and avoiding getting pooped on, peed on or puked on (the three deadly P's)...when I saw that commercial. I laughed, I related and later in my day, I talked about the ad.
Then, tonight, I'm sitting in my chair...watching American Idol on my DVR and flipping through my Parents magazine...when bang! It happens again...I see an ad in print...with pics of lots of things I would want to touch (and the word "touch") and then I turn the page. OMG. There's an ACTUAL Kleenex in the magazine with the word "FEEL."
And I did.
But it's not only about the ad. This commercial reminds me to stop being so BUSY. Take time and smell the roses. Touch the soft tissue. Smell your baby's sweet smelling hair. Kiss the hubby. Pet the puppy.
Then, get back to your cleaning. Those stains won't remove themselves, ya know.
Touch. Touch. Touch. Touch. FEEL.
Isn't that the truth? When I see those commercials, I stop. I was having one of those moments (like in the commercial) where you are running around the house, putting up toys and cleaning stains from the carpet and avoiding getting pooped on, peed on or puked on (the three deadly P's)...when I saw that commercial. I laughed, I related and later in my day, I talked about the ad.
Then, tonight, I'm sitting in my chair...watching American Idol on my DVR and flipping through my Parents magazine...when bang! It happens again...I see an ad in print...with pics of lots of things I would want to touch (and the word "touch") and then I turn the page. OMG. There's an ACTUAL Kleenex in the magazine with the word "FEEL."
And I did.
But it's not only about the ad. This commercial reminds me to stop being so BUSY. Take time and smell the roses. Touch the soft tissue. Smell your baby's sweet smelling hair. Kiss the hubby. Pet the puppy.
Then, get back to your cleaning. Those stains won't remove themselves, ya know.
Why we don't eat (most) meat.
As I'm sitting here with S, watching BBQ Paradise on the Travel channel...I have to admit to myself....a big plate of barbecue sounds pretty good right about now. But then I have to remind myself it's only 9 in the morning and I've not eaten any beef, pork or chicken in almost 8 months (besides that one slip-up on Christmas Eve...).
A lot of our friends and most of our family are avid meat-eaters...so why would we choose to give up the meat? For goodness sake, my family raises cattle and we live in TEXAS. Some people "go veg" for political reasons, or for religious reason, and some give it up for social reasons. High cholesterol runs in my family. In fact, several members of my family have been told to consume red meat only once per week, if that. So how about health reasons? Studies have shown that vegetarians have a lower rate of coronary artery disease, hypertension, obesity, and cancer.
J was raised vegetarian. I gave up meat for Lent in college. J doesn't like handling red meat and I gag at the thought of handling chicken or any other birds. We noticed that the times we enjoyed cooking the most were usually when meat was not involved. Also, when we went on a vegetarian diet, we would feel lighter and have more energy. We had friends who were vegetarian or vegan, and of course, J's parents don't eat meat. So, when we would eat with these people, it was easier to cook meals that didn't involve meat.
Being vegetarian has led to some surprising benefits. We get a kick out of knowing that our knives have only been used for slicing veggies, tofu or Quorn. In the Austin area, it is a lot easier to live this lifestyle. There are vegetarian restaurants, bakers, and grocery stores (or at least large sections in certain grocery stores).
We do still eat fish occasionally, and still eat dairy products and eggs...because it is easier to eat at a restaurant that way. We don't want to completely inconvenience friends and family who do still eat meat. Being a vegetarian doesn't have to mean eating salads and side-items only. That's not to say that we don't still think meat looks good. Because at this stage, it still does have an appeal. The thing is, we can't bring ourselves to actually eat it. You're crazy if BBQ doesn't still look good on paper, or if you think we don't have cravings for hamburgers or tacos.
This has raised the question of "what about baby S? Will she be allowed to eat meat?" Our take on this is...there are still a lot of healthy options for vegetarian babies and as long as it makes sense for us to keep her on a veg diet, we are going to do that. Of course, if when she gets older and can form her own opinions...if she wants meat, she can have it...just probably not in our house. But who's to say we'll still feel that way in ten years. For now, this is what works for us.
Fin.
A lot of our friends and most of our family are avid meat-eaters...so why would we choose to give up the meat? For goodness sake, my family raises cattle and we live in TEXAS. Some people "go veg" for political reasons, or for religious reason, and some give it up for social reasons. High cholesterol runs in my family. In fact, several members of my family have been told to consume red meat only once per week, if that. So how about health reasons? Studies have shown that vegetarians have a lower rate of coronary artery disease, hypertension, obesity, and cancer.
J was raised vegetarian. I gave up meat for Lent in college. J doesn't like handling red meat and I gag at the thought of handling chicken or any other birds. We noticed that the times we enjoyed cooking the most were usually when meat was not involved. Also, when we went on a vegetarian diet, we would feel lighter and have more energy. We had friends who were vegetarian or vegan, and of course, J's parents don't eat meat. So, when we would eat with these people, it was easier to cook meals that didn't involve meat.
Being vegetarian has led to some surprising benefits. We get a kick out of knowing that our knives have only been used for slicing veggies, tofu or Quorn. In the Austin area, it is a lot easier to live this lifestyle. There are vegetarian restaurants, bakers, and grocery stores (or at least large sections in certain grocery stores).
We do still eat fish occasionally, and still eat dairy products and eggs...because it is easier to eat at a restaurant that way. We don't want to completely inconvenience friends and family who do still eat meat. Being a vegetarian doesn't have to mean eating salads and side-items only. That's not to say that we don't still think meat looks good. Because at this stage, it still does have an appeal. The thing is, we can't bring ourselves to actually eat it. You're crazy if BBQ doesn't still look good on paper, or if you think we don't have cravings for hamburgers or tacos.
This has raised the question of "what about baby S? Will she be allowed to eat meat?" Our take on this is...there are still a lot of healthy options for vegetarian babies and as long as it makes sense for us to keep her on a veg diet, we are going to do that. Of course, if when she gets older and can form her own opinions...if she wants meat, she can have it...just probably not in our house. But who's to say we'll still feel that way in ten years. For now, this is what works for us.
Fin.
The importance of routines, binkies, and lullabies
Finally, after the Christmas holiday travel and the New Year's Eve debacle, we are back into a routine. It only took five days...but man, those were loooooong days. We definitely were not ready for J to go back to the office on Monday.
But now, we are back to our four squares and two naps a day, and it is pure bliss. S is finally sleeping through the night again. In fact, this morning when she woke up, a disoriented mom thought it was 2 or 3 in the morning...and sent dad to go soothe her with a binky....yeah.
Speaking of binkies, man...our kid loves hers. In fact, it's usually somewhere in this developmental stage that babies form attachments to certain things. Often times, it's a blanket or a stuffed animal or something. But what has Miss S chosen for hers? Why...another binky, of course. Putting her to bed or down for a nap without a binky in the kisser and binky in her hand is like walking out of the front door without pants on.
Her lullabies are almost as important. Since she was in the womb, we've always let her listen to music and it still has a tremendous soothing effect on her. Our house has also been filled with the sound of a heartbeat noise-maker since she was born. That with the scent of lavender and vanilla, our house is a basic 24/7 cocoon.
Speaking of...zzzzzzzzzzzz
But now, we are back to our four squares and two naps a day, and it is pure bliss. S is finally sleeping through the night again. In fact, this morning when she woke up, a disoriented mom thought it was 2 or 3 in the morning...and sent dad to go soothe her with a binky....yeah.
Speaking of binkies, man...our kid loves hers. In fact, it's usually somewhere in this developmental stage that babies form attachments to certain things. Often times, it's a blanket or a stuffed animal or something. But what has Miss S chosen for hers? Why...another binky, of course. Putting her to bed or down for a nap without a binky in the kisser and binky in her hand is like walking out of the front door without pants on.
Her lullabies are almost as important. Since she was in the womb, we've always let her listen to music and it still has a tremendous soothing effect on her. Our house has also been filled with the sound of a heartbeat noise-maker since she was born. That with the scent of lavender and vanilla, our house is a basic 24/7 cocoon.
Speaking of...zzzzzzzzzzzz
A new year in the "big city"
We rocked-in 2009 with some Rockband 2 and maybe a little champagne....and the neighbor's fireworks/loud music/bonfire/partying until 2 a.m. (*ahem* thanks *ahem* neighbors!).
I also worked on my knitting. Did I mention I'm trying to learn to knit? It's really just so I can impress my grandmother...who is like...the QUEEN of knitting. I took pictures of E's Christmas gift...which was an awesome "no-knit" scarf that I made myself the week before Christmas. :D
J bought an awesome 80's metal guitar with his Christmas cash...and walked around the house making Gene Simmons' faces and throwing up his classic rock hand gestures.
I've written and rewritten this post nine times.
I have this little belief that you can tell how your year was by looking at your bank account, your photos and (recently) your twitter or social networking site of your choice. Since some of that is privileged information, I wrote a post earlier with pictures from every month. I can describe that to you in one word: "baby." It was definitely the year of the baby for us here at the H house. In January I was 8 months pregnant. In February, S was born. And from there to the end of the year, we were documenting milestones...baby's first laugh, baby's first Easter, baby's first tummy time, baby's first rolling over, baby's first road trip, baby's first July 4th, baby's first solid food, baby's first crawl, baby's first stand-up, baby's first Halloween, baby's first Thanksgiving, baby's first Christmas, baby's first snow...etc.
I have another little belief that you can tell how your year is going to be by looking at how you spend New Year's Day. Our day was spent with our little family. We worked on hobbies, cleaned the house, danced in the living room, played all day, rested when it was needed, and then I capped off the evening with dinner and a lot of good conversation with E. We talked about our year and where we are now in our marriages, our friendships, our families, and where we want to go in the next year. We talked about our long term goals, we laughed at stories we hadn't told each other, we cried over memories and achievements. It was a good day, full of normal every-day activities and a few extraordinary moments; and I expect nothing more of the year to come.
Willkommen 2009. Willkommen.
I also worked on my knitting. Did I mention I'm trying to learn to knit? It's really just so I can impress my grandmother...who is like...the QUEEN of knitting. I took pictures of E's Christmas gift...which was an awesome "no-knit" scarf that I made myself the week before Christmas. :D
J bought an awesome 80's metal guitar with his Christmas cash...and walked around the house making Gene Simmons' faces and throwing up his classic rock hand gestures.
I've written and rewritten this post nine times.
I have this little belief that you can tell how your year was by looking at your bank account, your photos and (recently) your twitter or social networking site of your choice. Since some of that is privileged information, I wrote a post earlier with pictures from every month. I can describe that to you in one word: "baby." It was definitely the year of the baby for us here at the H house. In January I was 8 months pregnant. In February, S was born. And from there to the end of the year, we were documenting milestones...baby's first laugh, baby's first Easter, baby's first tummy time, baby's first rolling over, baby's first road trip, baby's first July 4th, baby's first solid food, baby's first crawl, baby's first stand-up, baby's first Halloween, baby's first Thanksgiving, baby's first Christmas, baby's first snow...etc.
I have another little belief that you can tell how your year is going to be by looking at how you spend New Year's Day. Our day was spent with our little family. We worked on hobbies, cleaned the house, danced in the living room, played all day, rested when it was needed, and then I capped off the evening with dinner and a lot of good conversation with E. We talked about our year and where we are now in our marriages, our friendships, our families, and where we want to go in the next year. We talked about our long term goals, we laughed at stories we hadn't told each other, we cried over memories and achievements. It was a good day, full of normal every-day activities and a few extraordinary moments; and I expect nothing more of the year to come.
Willkommen 2009. Willkommen.
Friendship after baby
My circle of friends ebbs and flows like....well, like my weight. And after having Scout, it has been no mystery that I've found myself busy with an influx of friend activities one week, and then completely solitary the next. It's not something I expected, but something that I've come to accept, like the stretchmarks that now brand my body.
There are so many different ways your life changes after having a baby (good and not so good)...and, I wanted to share a little of my experience in THIS department. I've always been a private person...and there are probably 3 people in the world that I know that I can talk to about ANYTHING. I like to be alone some days and I like to be surrounded by people on other days.
I don't think I'm the BEST friend of many. In fact, it's always been hard for me to make friends, for various different reasons. Since getting pregnant with Scout, I think I've found that I've not had time or energy to make new friends, but have really solidified and revisited some of my older friendships.
Most of our friends knew we were trying to get pregnant for the nine months before we actually conceived. So it didn't come as "that much" of a shock when we announced that we were expecting. What we didn't expect were the cheers of joy mixed with the "aw man, now we can't hang out/party/have play dates/go out as much."
It's not just my friendships that have changed, it's also J's. J hasn't played soccer since late in my pregnancy (something he's done since he could walk). He literally goes to work, comes home and is a daddy and a husband to us and doesn't really have time for himself. Granted, he could choose to make some time, but he would rather spend time with us than without us (most days--haha).
Recently, I've really tried to strengthen friendships and learn new things to help me with my own sense of self. Yes, I am a mother...but that's not all that I have to offer. I devote myself 99.9% to my family...which leaves me .1% to do activities that I enjoy by myself or with friends (girl's nights, shopping, golf, crafting, movie night...etc). This in turn makes me feel better about myself. And if I feel better, that trickles down to my relationship with my husband and my daughter.
So, I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the friends I have for understanding that my world has been rocked in the last 19 months. I'd like to thank my friends for being patient, dropping by the house (when it's easier), helping me keep my sanity, introducing me to new activities, and getting me out of the house when I need it the most. You guys are the best and I love you for it!
Edit: Here's an awesome clip from a friend of mine. Thanks Mrs. H! :D
There are so many different ways your life changes after having a baby (good and not so good)...and, I wanted to share a little of my experience in THIS department. I've always been a private person...and there are probably 3 people in the world that I know that I can talk to about ANYTHING. I like to be alone some days and I like to be surrounded by people on other days.
I don't think I'm the BEST friend of many. In fact, it's always been hard for me to make friends, for various different reasons. Since getting pregnant with Scout, I think I've found that I've not had time or energy to make new friends, but have really solidified and revisited some of my older friendships.
Most of our friends knew we were trying to get pregnant for the nine months before we actually conceived. So it didn't come as "that much" of a shock when we announced that we were expecting. What we didn't expect were the cheers of joy mixed with the "aw man, now we can't hang out/party/have play dates/go out as much."
It's not just my friendships that have changed, it's also J's. J hasn't played soccer since late in my pregnancy (something he's done since he could walk). He literally goes to work, comes home and is a daddy and a husband to us and doesn't really have time for himself. Granted, he could choose to make some time, but he would rather spend time with us than without us (most days--haha).
Recently, I've really tried to strengthen friendships and learn new things to help me with my own sense of self. Yes, I am a mother...but that's not all that I have to offer. I devote myself 99.9% to my family...which leaves me .1% to do activities that I enjoy by myself or with friends (girl's nights, shopping, golf, crafting, movie night...etc). This in turn makes me feel better about myself. And if I feel better, that trickles down to my relationship with my husband and my daughter.
So, I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the friends I have for understanding that my world has been rocked in the last 19 months. I'd like to thank my friends for being patient, dropping by the house (when it's easier), helping me keep my sanity, introducing me to new activities, and getting me out of the house when I need it the most. You guys are the best and I love you for it!
Edit: Here's an awesome clip from a friend of mine. Thanks Mrs. H! :D
A very happy holiday.
This was baby's first Christmas...and I know you aren't supposed to say "Christmas (or other event, here) is so much better with a baby." BUT...my holiday season was so much merrier with Scout here. And maybe that's not the same thing. Maybe a baby doesn't change everything...maybe WE change things once the baby gets here.
It was a different and somewhat difficult year for present buying. We didn't want to spend money on ourselves or on each other. We wanted to buy her the world. We wanted to introduce her to Christmas lights, trees, Santa, snow, wrapping paper, tissue paper, bubble wrap, baby dolls and the spirit of giving.
Baby met (and was quizzically intrigued with) Santa, stared at lights and touched her first Christmas tree. She helped me decorate (and un-decorate and then decorate again) the tree and house for the holidays. She tried and finally got the hang of unwrapping presents, though she disapproved of bubble wrap. She experienced her first Miltos, Toy Joy and (almost) Trail of Lights tradition with family. She kissed the baby dolls and hugged them, tackled them, and tried to figure out their hands, feet, eyes, noses and eyelashes. She saw her first snow. She had her first Christmas Eve celebration with extended family. She left milk and cookies for Santa for the first time. She got a letter from Santa for the first time. She had her first Christmas morning and opened her stocking for the first time to find all kinds of goodies.
It was the best Christmas of our lives and part of that has to be because we were sharing it with our baby girl.
A new look..
Oh hey there, readers! Notice anything new about me? That's right....I had a little work done. Welcome to the new blog. It all started with a new name. Then, thanks to a little genius and a lot of hard work...it all came together. So, thanks J. You rock my face off.
Baby standing, caught on video.
She's been doing this for a while...just wanted to share a video.
Watch it once for the standing, and twice for the cute curl behind her ear/collar.
Watch it once for the standing, and twice for the cute curl behind her ear/collar.
What has kept Scooty busy lately?
Oh ya know...making some phone calls, answering some emails, posting some blogs.
"Why I married a Radio, Television and Film degree-holder"...in pictures.
SO. Rebecca at Girls Gone Child posted a blog about money shots (of our children)...and requested readers to gather theirs and send them in. Like I'm not going to do that! ;)
Couldn't pick just a couple, so here's a my top ten...eleven...twelve...thirteen...ok I'll stop. Click the pic below for my photo album and listen to me gush about the cuteness that is.
Couldn't pick just a couple, so here's a my top ten...eleven...twelve...thirteen...ok I'll stop. Click the pic below for my photo album and listen to me gush about the cuteness that is.
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| $$ shots |
Happy Thanksgiving, Baby Scout!
This is your first Thanksgiving, baby girl. And we are so thankful for YOU and all the joy you have brought to our lives! We love you so so so much.
a little inspiration of my own....
I was just inspired to get in shape by a new endeavor...here's your super nerdy literary hint:
"A way a lone a last a love a long the
riverrun, past Eve and Adam's,
from swerve of shore to bend of bay,
brings us by a commodius vicus of
recirculation back to Howth Castle
and Environs."
...and no...nothing is misspelled or nonsensical.
"A way a lone a last a love a long the
riverrun, past Eve and Adam's,
from swerve of shore to bend of bay,
brings us by a commodius vicus of
recirculation back to Howth Castle
and Environs."
...and no...nothing is misspelled or nonsensical.
Such a big girl!!!
Our lil' grower has been growing! And she has the numbers to prove it to ya!
Our growth chart puts Lil' Scouter in the 75th percentile as far as length and head size (she's def. a thinker!!) in her 9th month. She is long and lean, at 18 lbs. 10 oz...and Dr. Cav is wonderfully happy with her development. She is 28 1/2 inches long (I think she gets that from her daddy).
Anywho...just wanted to share the latest stats! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, if I don't get another post up before then!
Our growth chart puts Lil' Scouter in the 75th percentile as far as length and head size (she's def. a thinker!!) in her 9th month. She is long and lean, at 18 lbs. 10 oz...and Dr. Cav is wonderfully happy with her development. She is 28 1/2 inches long (I think she gets that from her daddy).
Anywho...just wanted to share the latest stats! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, if I don't get another post up before then!
Argument FOR teaching your baby French...
This has to be the cutest thing I've ever seen. on the internet.
Once upon a time... from Capucha on Vimeo.
Once upon a time... from Capucha on Vimeo.
two cuteness stories for the day
cute story numero uno:
So today, I watched Scout crawl over to the shelf and take a thick book off the shelf, scoot it over to the other shelf, and stand on it so she could reach the glass vases she isn't supposed to have. So cute that I couldn't tell her no. Until she tried to pick them up.
cute story numero dos:
As I type this, my adorable husband is curled up on the couch...snoring. And below him (on the floor), in the exact same position...also snoring...Champ Champ. They would totally be spooning if they were on the same level.
omg...the cuteness abounds.
So today, I watched Scout crawl over to the shelf and take a thick book off the shelf, scoot it over to the other shelf, and stand on it so she could reach the glass vases she isn't supposed to have. So cute that I couldn't tell her no. Until she tried to pick them up.
cute story numero dos:
As I type this, my adorable husband is curled up on the couch...snoring. And below him (on the floor), in the exact same position...also snoring...Champ Champ. They would totally be spooning if they were on the same level.
omg...the cuteness abounds.
Who's that standing baby?
So, forgive the lapse of posting. I've been busy chasing our little explorer all over the house trying to keep her little mitts off of daddy's records, xbox, books, dog toys, shoes, socks, tp, laundry, tables, tv cabinet and picture frames...to name a few things.
At this rate, we are pretty sure we have an early walker on our hands.
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