Time flys by so fast
It's hard to remember the past
Carrying him up the stairs
or sitting for hours in the rocking chair
kids have grown and days have changed
but one thing still remains
We take our breaths
with a sense of urgency
living in a state of emergency
I want to know this
I may not live perfectly
but I have lived purposely
Busy Wife and Mom to 3 boys... blog with thoughts on raising three boys, life, running, and easy recipes...
Sunday, December 2, 2012
Saturday, December 1, 2012
Proud Mom
During all of those Dr. appointments and tests Braedyn had AIG testing. They test for that at the 3rd grade level. It's the gifted program~is what it stands for but I just tell him it is because those students need to be more challenged.
I was a little concerned since he was getting those headaches that week and would have to stay focused on the testing. I had actually asked the teacher about it and she said if he needed, he could retake it at a different time.
Well, he did not to retake it! He got in the car so excited on friday after school and he told me he did so good on his AIG's that he is going to the AIG teacher now for Math. I was so proud of him, I almost got a tear in my eye when I told him I was proud of him and he said, "I am proud of myself too." It was a great day and such a self-esteem booster for him because he gets so down on himself sometimes. He is hard on himself when it comes to his school work.
Way to go buddy! You still amaze me everyday!
I was a little concerned since he was getting those headaches that week and would have to stay focused on the testing. I had actually asked the teacher about it and she said if he needed, he could retake it at a different time.
Well, he did not to retake it! He got in the car so excited on friday after school and he told me he did so good on his AIG's that he is going to the AIG teacher now for Math. I was so proud of him, I almost got a tear in my eye when I told him I was proud of him and he said, "I am proud of myself too." It was a great day and such a self-esteem booster for him because he gets so down on himself sometimes. He is hard on himself when it comes to his school work.
Way to go buddy! You still amaze me everyday!
Friday, November 30, 2012
Anniversary Day! My belated anniv. post....
Today, November 21st, we celebrate 9 years! Happy Anniversary babe!
Nine years ago we were in Las Vegas with family and friends who could make the trip to help us celebrate our special day.
For those of you who know the story, it was a struggle to get down that aisle for both of us but not because we didn't want to, but physically almost couldn't. We weren't going to reschedule our day that we had planned! Ironically, it was the most joyous day and most awful day at the same time...one we both will remember forever. It gives true meaning to "in sickness and in health."
The wedding trip was the week before Thanksgiving. We were getting married in Las Vegas, Friday, November 21, 2003 at Treasure Island Casino. I wanted a small intimate wedding because my family is so large and I just didn't want the headache or bill of planning a big wedding. It isn't about the day~it's what comes after that matters most, and that was what I kept reminding myself as I was planning a wedding, I was pregnant, and wrapping up a semester at college. I just wanted a big party later and that's what we did. We had friends and family coming with us to make the trip. We left on a Wednesday evening from Minneapolis with my brother, sister, mom, dad, Grandma Baudoin, and aunt Dawn. There was not one of us who had been to Vegas before, except for grandma, yes grandma...because my dad's cousin Keith lives in Las Vegas.
We were tired after landing, so we didn't do much except hit the casino floor in the hotel that evening. After, about 10-15 minutes on the casino floor with Charlie, I realized this is NOT the place for a pregnant lady! Yes, I was 6 months pregnant with Braedyn, as you can tell in the picture above. I wouldn't normally wear a size 16 wedding dress, but that's what it was and it was comfortable and simple and didn't make me look any bigger than I already was! I went to bed early while leaving everyone else to walk around Vegas and the casino tables. I figured we have a whole day ahead of us on Thursday.
Thursday was a beautiful fall day in Las Vegas. We started the morning out with a limo ride to the court house in downtown Vegas to get our marriage license and headed back to meet up with the group. Dad, who we usually give the nickname Clark on any family trip, had figured out our day and what and where we should go...The end of the night we ended up at The Golden Nugget and ate at the buffet, what a great place to eat for a pregnant lady! We later found out ~wrong choice!
I went back to the room and everyone else went to party. Charlie rolled in like at 4 am and I woke up to him in the bathroom. It was coming out both ends and I said "well that serves you right for staying out that late the night before we get married!" He said he had quit drinking "so he says" at midnight. I actually believed him as the sickness progressed and I had NEVER seen him that sick before. Well, then that wave came over me and took me by surprise as I was getting my hair and make-up done at about 10 am. I thought this lady better hurry up or I am going to be sick in the salon. The smells were nauseating! Mom could tell I was turning green even though I had what felt like an inch of foundation on my face!
I got back to the room and Charlie was out cold and when I say cold he was actually cold to the touch with the shakes. I layed down and soon I was joining him not feeling the greatest. I didn't know whether to sit or kneel at the stool.
I thought this is not how I planned my wedding day. We both were so extremely sick how are we going to do this. Mine was tolerable still but not pleasant. Charlie finally got up and got dressed,ready to meet me at the chapel at 6 pm. He could barely make it down the aisle. We both were a a tinge of green. At one point the chaplain said, "Are you okay?"
We were able to make it down the aisle but had spent the rest of the night in bed with both of us sick to our stomach and we could hardly move. The groans coming from our hotel room weren't from your typical wedding night! We missed out on our reception afterward so everyone had a nice dinner after our wedding while we were in our rooms struggling to get down saltines.Turns out we had food poisoning! It was awful! I thought I was going into labor my stomach pains were so bad. My sister got sick and so did another person in our party. We both were still not feeling the greatest on Saturday but made it through. We came home on Sunday feeling normal and a healthy married couple.
The funny part about the story was my mother wrote a letter to complain to The Golden Nugget and you know what they sent back to her a discount to eat at The Golden Nugget. Really, C'mon!
It is something we look back on now and can laugh. We did have a wedding reception after Braedyn was born to celebrate everything in our lives with all our family and friends back in Minnesota.
So when I see people planning their "BIG" day and spend so much time,energy and money on it. Then when I look back at ours....and look how we've turned out. I don't regret one thing! I still had my fairytale ending it just was a little different than the book.
I love you Charlie and I have been blessed and my cup runneth over!
absent from blog
I have been so busy with the holidays and other writing I haven't been as great as keeping this up to date.
Wednesday was our last follow up with the neurologist after the MRI.
As far as Braedyn goes he is doing so much better. He went through all those tests and Dr.s appointment and they have seem to pin point where his migraines are coming from. It has to do with his allergies/asthma and his sinuses! Thank goodness. The MRI showed that his sinuses were full but the ENT Dr. couldn't know if it was inflammed tissue or an infection, pus or etc. So the ENT Dr. put him on a 21 day course of antibiotics which he will finish up next Thursday. He has not had a headache since being on it. We are happy with that! The neurologist said that the kids with sinus problems~it can trigger migraines~ so if we can get his allergies under control and get him on a stronger allergy medication, he shouldn't have these migraines. If he was still having migraines after the antibiotics, then she wanted to see him back because she would want to talk about medication strictly for migraines which I DID NOT WANT him on they sounded like drugs that were a little scary for a child to be on. So I am so glad we can treat his allergies, which will also treat and cure the migraine problems he has been having. He feels much better.
We thank you all for the prayers and concerns! Now we just need to find a pediatric allergist/asthma Dr.
Wednesday was our last follow up with the neurologist after the MRI.
As far as Braedyn goes he is doing so much better. He went through all those tests and Dr.s appointment and they have seem to pin point where his migraines are coming from. It has to do with his allergies/asthma and his sinuses! Thank goodness. The MRI showed that his sinuses were full but the ENT Dr. couldn't know if it was inflammed tissue or an infection, pus or etc. So the ENT Dr. put him on a 21 day course of antibiotics which he will finish up next Thursday. He has not had a headache since being on it. We are happy with that! The neurologist said that the kids with sinus problems~it can trigger migraines~ so if we can get his allergies under control and get him on a stronger allergy medication, he shouldn't have these migraines. If he was still having migraines after the antibiotics, then she wanted to see him back because she would want to talk about medication strictly for migraines which I DID NOT WANT him on they sounded like drugs that were a little scary for a child to be on. So I am so glad we can treat his allergies, which will also treat and cure the migraine problems he has been having. He feels much better.
We thank you all for the prayers and concerns! Now we just need to find a pediatric allergist/asthma Dr.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
3 year old conversations
Jordan and his little friend, that I pick up after preschool to come to our house for awhile, have a cute little friendship. She is so sweet and they play so nicely together. They have their moments but for the most part get along really well. We carpool with this family so we see them a lot. So it's almost like the sister he doesn't have or will never have. I love just listening to them play together and the conversations they have with each other are so cute and funny. Some of the things they say, they just crack me up. Two little three year olds, a boy and girl play differently then when it is boy and boy.
The conversation on the way home was too funny, so I have to share it. Jordan has been kind of obsessed with the Heaven Is For Real book. The story and pictures were so beautifully printed. Jordan was telling her how when you get to heaven you can get to walk around and you get wings to fly around.
She said, "Oh like a fairy". Jordan said "yes, I am going to be a fairy."
To which she quickly commented and said, "You can't be a fairy, there are no man fairies".
I almost choked on my gum that I was chewing because it was just too funny, as I was thinking to myself I think I know a few man fairies....
I let them figure out that one....
The conversation on the way home was too funny, so I have to share it. Jordan has been kind of obsessed with the Heaven Is For Real book. The story and pictures were so beautifully printed. Jordan was telling her how when you get to heaven you can get to walk around and you get wings to fly around.
She said, "Oh like a fairy". Jordan said "yes, I am going to be a fairy."
To which she quickly commented and said, "You can't be a fairy, there are no man fairies".
I almost choked on my gum that I was chewing because it was just too funny, as I was thinking to myself I think I know a few man fairies....
I let them figure out that one....
Monday, November 19, 2012
Parent of the Day
In honor of the holidays I created (with the help of pinterest) a snack for my parent of the day duties...
I am parent of the day in Jordan's preschool class and I thought the kiddos would enjoy this fun snack!
mini bran muffins
rasberries/strawberries
blueberries
Pear as the body
two dots of chocolate frosting as the eyes
some cheese as beak and the legs
I am parent of the day in Jordan's preschool class and I thought the kiddos would enjoy this fun snack!
mini bran muffins
rasberries/strawberries
blueberries
Pear as the body
two dots of chocolate frosting as the eyes
some cheese as beak and the legs
Sunday, November 18, 2012
A Day Out with the Boys
Since the Hurricanes are not playing because of the NHL lockout, it is hard to watch hockey here in North Carolina! We don't even get much of the college games on TV since we don't have those channels.
The sportsplex in Hillsborough, where Cooper started and Jordan now is starting skating, was having a college hockey tournament. It is NOT like watching Gophers vs North Dakota and those kind of teams but the boys don't know any different. That is the one thing I miss being able to watch or attend is the Gopher hockey games.
We got there and NC State was playing Eastern Kentucky. Who knew NC State even had a hockey team. They were having so much fun. It was kind of a boring game as it was slow and not much action packed hits...I think the final score was 16-7. Then Gettysburg College played Elon. Now that was a fun game. I figured it would be a little bit better of a game since that college is in the Northeast. They had some better skaters. The boys were the only kids at the rink and actually we were almost the only fans there until later in the game. Elon is close by in Burlington, NC. The boys could stand by the glass and get close, an experience they can't have really anywhere else. I wish I would have brought the camera as they were all standing there with hands on each other's shoulders. It was so dang cute! They were loving all the action and hard hits at one point Cooper pulled Braedyn from the glass and said don't stand so close the glass will bend and hit you in the face. The team from Pennsylvania was really rough! We left after the first period of that game because they were getting tired. They wanted to watch UNC but they weren't until later that night. We went and got ice cream and played at the park.
Also hockey is a small world. I got to talking to one of the fans sitting next to me and I figured it was a dad of one of the kids out there. His kid played for Gettysburg College. He flew in for the game from Chicago but he grew up in Minnesota too. He was from South Minneapolis and went to Benilde. So it was nice chatting with him. He said to enjoy about the next 12 years of hockey because once it is in the kid's blood it's hard to settle. He also said he had three boys playing hockey all over the states and he spent a lot of time on the road but to enjoy it because it goes by too fast!
We had a wonderful afternoon together. I just loved the looks on their faces while they were watching the game and they were so into it. I can't imagine if we went to a Gopher game or even a Hurricanes game.
The sportsplex in Hillsborough, where Cooper started and Jordan now is starting skating, was having a college hockey tournament. It is NOT like watching Gophers vs North Dakota and those kind of teams but the boys don't know any different. That is the one thing I miss being able to watch or attend is the Gopher hockey games.
We got there and NC State was playing Eastern Kentucky. Who knew NC State even had a hockey team. They were having so much fun. It was kind of a boring game as it was slow and not much action packed hits...I think the final score was 16-7. Then Gettysburg College played Elon. Now that was a fun game. I figured it would be a little bit better of a game since that college is in the Northeast. They had some better skaters. The boys were the only kids at the rink and actually we were almost the only fans there until later in the game. Elon is close by in Burlington, NC. The boys could stand by the glass and get close, an experience they can't have really anywhere else. I wish I would have brought the camera as they were all standing there with hands on each other's shoulders. It was so dang cute! They were loving all the action and hard hits at one point Cooper pulled Braedyn from the glass and said don't stand so close the glass will bend and hit you in the face. The team from Pennsylvania was really rough! We left after the first period of that game because they were getting tired. They wanted to watch UNC but they weren't until later that night. We went and got ice cream and played at the park.
Also hockey is a small world. I got to talking to one of the fans sitting next to me and I figured it was a dad of one of the kids out there. His kid played for Gettysburg College. He flew in for the game from Chicago but he grew up in Minnesota too. He was from South Minneapolis and went to Benilde. So it was nice chatting with him. He said to enjoy about the next 12 years of hockey because once it is in the kid's blood it's hard to settle. He also said he had three boys playing hockey all over the states and he spent a lot of time on the road but to enjoy it because it goes by too fast!
We had a wonderful afternoon together. I just loved the looks on their faces while they were watching the game and they were so into it. I can't imagine if we went to a Gopher game or even a Hurricanes game.
Hockey Photos~11/11/12
The game on Sunday the 11th was a well fought game 3-4. Finally a game that was even matchup and the kids needed that as the other games were really lopsided. Usually outscoring the other team by 10-15 points and everyone usually had a goal. This team was a great little team as well. The goalie for the team was really good blocking a lot of shots. Only 3 people scored and Cooper was one of them. Yes, I was a proud momma yelling in the stands. The score was 3-4. Our first loss. We are 2-1. |
| Coop-thats what people yell in the stands |
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| Cooper's Goal celebration~ he was pretty excited and mom was proud! |
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| Go, Go, Go |
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| Go after it, he's got his eye on it! |
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| Good shot but nice block! |
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| Face off, pass it to me |
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| rehydrating |
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| fighting for the puck |
ENT outcome
The ENT specialist wanted to see Braedyn after school on Friday. So I dropped kids off at a girlfriends house. I was worried they were going to put a scope us his nose and that wouldn't be pleasant with other kids.
He went over the films with us as best as he could because he needs a CT scan an MRI doesn't show really what he is needed. He was able to see that his maxillary sinuses (ones on your cheeks are swollen) which would indicate a chronic sinus infection but he can't tell for sure. So he suggested putting him on a 21 day course of antibiotic so see if that will help clear up the congestion he has had. However, he does not think this is the cause of his headaches. We just want to get him feeling better because on top of the headaches he is severely congested. Maybe miraculously after this antibiotic he will be better but the Dr. wasn't as positive.
He ordered a CT scan three weeks out to see if the antibiotics cleared up the sinuses and see if anything else is going on.
He goes in on Wednesday this week to the Neurologist.
Poor guy, on the way to the Dr.s appointment on Friday, he said I just don't want to go to anymore Dr. appointments.
He went over the films with us as best as he could because he needs a CT scan an MRI doesn't show really what he is needed. He was able to see that his maxillary sinuses (ones on your cheeks are swollen) which would indicate a chronic sinus infection but he can't tell for sure. So he suggested putting him on a 21 day course of antibiotic so see if that will help clear up the congestion he has had. However, he does not think this is the cause of his headaches. We just want to get him feeling better because on top of the headaches he is severely congested. Maybe miraculously after this antibiotic he will be better but the Dr. wasn't as positive.
He ordered a CT scan three weeks out to see if the antibiotics cleared up the sinuses and see if anything else is going on.
He goes in on Wednesday this week to the Neurologist.
Poor guy, on the way to the Dr.s appointment on Friday, he said I just don't want to go to anymore Dr. appointments.
Friday, November 16, 2012
God is Good!
Praise the Lord! The MRI was normal and no scary stuff showed up!!
The ENT Dr. called us though because he was sent the MRI and something concerned him on the sinuses. Braedyn has allergies and asthma so maybe it has something to do with his allergies. So we are off the to ENT Dr. this afternoon after school today. I feel bad for the families that have to go to Dr. appointment to Dr. appointment and that is their life, because I am certainly sick of going to the Dr. with Braedyn.
He came home from school yesterday, his teacher called me at noon and he was in so much pain and in tears he couldn't take it anymore, so I had to go pick him up from school early. So Wednesday, when we meet with the Neurologist, hopefully she can give us some relief for him so he doesn't keep getting them. It's probably hard to concentrate in school and I don't want his studies to become a struggle as he is a very good student.
Just wanted to give an update on the MRI results!
Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers!
The ENT Dr. called us though because he was sent the MRI and something concerned him on the sinuses. Braedyn has allergies and asthma so maybe it has something to do with his allergies. So we are off the to ENT Dr. this afternoon after school today. I feel bad for the families that have to go to Dr. appointment to Dr. appointment and that is their life, because I am certainly sick of going to the Dr. with Braedyn.
He came home from school yesterday, his teacher called me at noon and he was in so much pain and in tears he couldn't take it anymore, so I had to go pick him up from school early. So Wednesday, when we meet with the Neurologist, hopefully she can give us some relief for him so he doesn't keep getting them. It's probably hard to concentrate in school and I don't want his studies to become a struggle as he is a very good student.
Just wanted to give an update on the MRI results!
Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers!
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Pediatric Neurology Appointment Day 2~ MRI
Today I picked up Braedyn and Cooper from school and then met my friend to drop off Cooper and Jordan with her so she could take them to her house while I take Braedyn to his MRI appointment in Durham.
I am so proud of him! He was such a trooper. When he and I were traveling in the car he said, "mom, I am scared," and I told him everything was going to be okay and if he wanted to give dad a call before we went he could do that. Unfortunately, dad could not leave work today and he is more of the one who can remain calm and not get all teary eyed when Braedyn does. When Braedyn cries, I cry. So he called dad and he was still concerned on the way in. He wasn't so much worried about the MRI. He had watched the video I had found on YouTube and he was fine with getting the MRI. He was more worried about the needle and the IV part of the procedure.
When it was time for us to go back the tech had him sit in her chair and wait for her to get her things ready. He kept asking me if she was going to numb it and I said I don't know. Well, when she said, no, that is when the tears began flowing and he was not having any part of it. After calming him down and talking him through it we were able to get him to allow her to place the line. He did great and asked if she was had put it in yet and she was already done! After that everything was going to be easy!
This was an experience for me as well. I have never had an MRI or even seen an MRI unit. We entered the MRI room and it was a very large machine. He laid on the bed as they placed the contraption over his head for his scan, put some earphones on his ears so he could listen to music and then they covered him up with a blanket. They slid the bed into the machine which was a huge tunnel. I stood on the side of him just to let him know I was there. The noises were so loud. They gave me earplugs. I am also glad I found that video for him to watch and he got to hear what it would be like because those sounds might have freaked him out. He did say he got a headache while the scan was going because of the loud noises. It's a good thing he isn't claustrophobic! I am not sure Charlie would have done as well as Braedyn. He layed there the entire hour and they only had to repeat one of the two minutes scans because he was singing along with the music coming thru the headphones. He was jamming out to some Eric Church and his lips and head were moving too much. They did do some with contrast. He told me if felt really weird when they shot that stuff up his arm. I can only imagine.
I am proud of him for getting through all these appointment with no complaints. He is grown up so much. He answers the questions from the Drs like such a grown boy. I still worry about him. He is glad everything is over and we can figure out what to do next about his headaches. We will be meeting with the neurologist on Wed (a week from today) to go over the results from today's scan. Yes, I don't like to wait, but no news is good news!
Thank you for all your prayers and concerns and offers to help out with the other boys. I am hoping all our appointment running is coming to an end and he can get some answers, understanding, and relief.
I am so proud of him! He was such a trooper. When he and I were traveling in the car he said, "mom, I am scared," and I told him everything was going to be okay and if he wanted to give dad a call before we went he could do that. Unfortunately, dad could not leave work today and he is more of the one who can remain calm and not get all teary eyed when Braedyn does. When Braedyn cries, I cry. So he called dad and he was still concerned on the way in. He wasn't so much worried about the MRI. He had watched the video I had found on YouTube and he was fine with getting the MRI. He was more worried about the needle and the IV part of the procedure.
When it was time for us to go back the tech had him sit in her chair and wait for her to get her things ready. He kept asking me if she was going to numb it and I said I don't know. Well, when she said, no, that is when the tears began flowing and he was not having any part of it. After calming him down and talking him through it we were able to get him to allow her to place the line. He did great and asked if she was had put it in yet and she was already done! After that everything was going to be easy!
This was an experience for me as well. I have never had an MRI or even seen an MRI unit. We entered the MRI room and it was a very large machine. He laid on the bed as they placed the contraption over his head for his scan, put some earphones on his ears so he could listen to music and then they covered him up with a blanket. They slid the bed into the machine which was a huge tunnel. I stood on the side of him just to let him know I was there. The noises were so loud. They gave me earplugs. I am also glad I found that video for him to watch and he got to hear what it would be like because those sounds might have freaked him out. He did say he got a headache while the scan was going because of the loud noises. It's a good thing he isn't claustrophobic! I am not sure Charlie would have done as well as Braedyn. He layed there the entire hour and they only had to repeat one of the two minutes scans because he was singing along with the music coming thru the headphones. He was jamming out to some Eric Church and his lips and head were moving too much. They did do some with contrast. He told me if felt really weird when they shot that stuff up his arm. I can only imagine.
I am proud of him for getting through all these appointment with no complaints. He is grown up so much. He answers the questions from the Drs like such a grown boy. I still worry about him. He is glad everything is over and we can figure out what to do next about his headaches. We will be meeting with the neurologist on Wed (a week from today) to go over the results from today's scan. Yes, I don't like to wait, but no news is good news!
Thank you for all your prayers and concerns and offers to help out with the other boys. I am hoping all our appointment running is coming to an end and he can get some answers, understanding, and relief.
Pediatric Neurologoy Appt Day 1
We had our Pediatric Neurology appointment yesterday and she is sending him for an MRI today. That is scheduled for after school today.
The neurologist thinks it is migraines but with his age, and no history of migraines with Charlie and I, they are sporadic with no definite triggers, and with them coming on during physical exertion she wants to get an MRI. Also he had gotten hit in the head a couple months ago at baseball practice with a baseball pretty hard (I don't know what the coach was thinking having him catch without gear on) and he had a headache for a couple days and sore spot there for a couple weeks. I had told her that and she wanted to check to see if that also could have had any affects.
Also, the other reason for the MRI is she had said she would want to put him on medication for his migraines but the meds are for blood vessels inside the brain and if there is anything in there that shouldn't be, it would cause more damage or problems, so before prescibing any meds for migraines she has to be sure the MRI is clear. I don't like the idea of having him on medication daily but that will be something we will have to discuss. He has come to mange them himself when the mild cluster ones come on at school.
So we are on the right track and the MRI is scheduled for tomorrow afternoon at 3. I am very nervous for that as I haven't even had one of those. Braedyn is very scared. I found a video on YouTube that explains the procedure very niceley except for the needle/iv part of course. He hates needles! In fact, one time we took him for a flu shot and when the nurse opended the door to come in he bolted out the door screaming, "get me outta here". So just praying tomorrow goes smoothly and he is able to get thru the MRI and that the MRI is clear!
We have the follow up to go over the results Wed. the day before Thanksgiving but they said they would call us sooner if needed. So in other words no news would be good news.
I will let you know how tomorrow goes. My girlfriend is meeting me in Durham on the way to the appt to pick up Jordan and Cooper and bring them to her houseso I can concentrate on just Braedyn. Then I will just go get them when we are done.
I appreciate your thoughts and concerns! Hoping for the best result and we can give him some relief when they do come otherwise he is just as normal, playful, and busy just like every 8 year old boy and sometimes doesn't want to stop playing until it just gets to painful. I don't like that we have to deal with this but it could be worse!
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Just Because...
This sums up my day...
I am just trying to remain positive and strong even though
deep down I am kind of scared, worried, and concerned.
Mom's carrying the torch.
I am just trying to remain positive and strong even though
deep down I am kind of scared, worried, and concerned.
Mom's carrying the torch.
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Veteran's Day
Thanks to all those who protect and serve this great country! Commitments, Sacrifices, and Loyalty!
Thanks to my dad, my Grandpa Baudoin, Charlie's Grandpa Andy Close, and his dad Boyd.
Cooper's class honored the veterans with a program on Thursday evening at their school. They sang songs and saluted Veterans. When the teacher announced to the crowd as each branch of the military songs were played, you were supposed to stand when you heard yours and a first grader would come and bring you a card, I kind of got choked up as I looked around a lot of these people were either my dad's age or my grandpa's age. Living in North Carolina it is very apparent that there is a military presence. They have a couple bases here and the big one, Fort Bragg is not far from us. I couldn't help but think of those YouTube videos, when a dad comes in and surprises their child at school. It gets me every time. I thought if that happens tonight, someone better get me box of Kleenex! It was a very neat program. One of the teacher's husband helped with some of the presentation as he was a Captain in the U.S. Navy. They had a powerpoint presentation with pictures that people from school had sent in. Well done first graders and their teachers!
My dad still does his duty and serves on the Minnesota Patriot Guard as Patriot Guard Rider. He has been touched by this experience as they honor the fallen soldiers that come home from overseas.
There is a very touching letter that a son wrote and the MN Patriot Guard have it posted on their website. If you decide to read it, grab a tissue. I had tears.
Here is the link...and it is on the right on side "Bringing Dad Home"
http://www.mnpatriotguard.org/
Proud of you dad!!
Love ya!
Thanks to my dad, my Grandpa Baudoin, Charlie's Grandpa Andy Close, and his dad Boyd.
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| My Dad! Handsome Sailor! |
Cooper's class honored the veterans with a program on Thursday evening at their school. They sang songs and saluted Veterans. When the teacher announced to the crowd as each branch of the military songs were played, you were supposed to stand when you heard yours and a first grader would come and bring you a card, I kind of got choked up as I looked around a lot of these people were either my dad's age or my grandpa's age. Living in North Carolina it is very apparent that there is a military presence. They have a couple bases here and the big one, Fort Bragg is not far from us. I couldn't help but think of those YouTube videos, when a dad comes in and surprises their child at school. It gets me every time. I thought if that happens tonight, someone better get me box of Kleenex! It was a very neat program. One of the teacher's husband helped with some of the presentation as he was a Captain in the U.S. Navy. They had a powerpoint presentation with pictures that people from school had sent in. Well done first graders and their teachers!
My dad still does his duty and serves on the Minnesota Patriot Guard as Patriot Guard Rider. He has been touched by this experience as they honor the fallen soldiers that come home from overseas.
There is a very touching letter that a son wrote and the MN Patriot Guard have it posted on their website. If you decide to read it, grab a tissue. I had tears.
Here is the link...and it is on the right on side "Bringing Dad Home"
http://www.mnpatriotguard.org/
Proud of you dad!!
Love ya!
Cracks me up everytime...
Last night the kids were doing their normal high energy activity after dinner and Charlie was washing the dishes. They were chasing each other in circles.
Charlie: "Didn't I ask you stop running in this house?"
Jordan: "I'm not running, I am speedwalking!"
Then I said come and clean your hands.
Jordan: "I did, come see for yourself."
This age can be so frustrating but so funny as their developing their language and the things that come out of their mouths are surprising sometimes!
Even though he used a "naughty" word this is pretty funny....
On the way home Thursday from Coop's Veteran's day performance he rode with Charlie and said from the back, "Dad, I need to go to the bathroom." Charlie said, "Do you need me to pullover in the grass?" Then Cooper said, "I have to poop out my ass." Charlie was a little surprised and stearnly asked, "you said what?!" Cooper quickly replied, "no, you don't have to stop".
Oh man....
and yes, he made it home...
Charlie: "Didn't I ask you stop running in this house?"
Jordan: "I'm not running, I am speedwalking!"
Then I said come and clean your hands.
Jordan: "I did, come see for yourself."
This age can be so frustrating but so funny as their developing their language and the things that come out of their mouths are surprising sometimes!
Even though he used a "naughty" word this is pretty funny....
On the way home Thursday from Coop's Veteran's day performance he rode with Charlie and said from the back, "Dad, I need to go to the bathroom." Charlie said, "Do you need me to pullover in the grass?" Then Cooper said, "I have to poop out my ass." Charlie was a little surprised and stearnly asked, "you said what?!" Cooper quickly replied, "no, you don't have to stop".
Oh man....
and yes, he made it home...
Friday, November 9, 2012
Is This My Child You Are Speaking Of...
I am always amazed when I go to preschool parent/teacher conferences. They compliment me on what a joy it is to have my child in class that he is so kind and thoughtful and I had gotten that same compliment for the older boys. I think to myself, are we talking about the same little boy who fights with his brothers, doesn't like to share with his brothers, and doesn't have any patience at home. Well, at least my parenting isn't falling on deaf ears.
Jordan had his conference yesterday at his preschool and the teacher was commenting how kind, patience and loving he is. He has never been mean to anyone or had a fit. She even showed me a drawing he did that he focused on for quite awhile before just giving up and politely telling her he couldn't draw a face but the paper was covered with marker not only on the front but the back as well. He tried so hard. They were supposed to draw a self portrait for the beginning of the year and they do one at the end of the year. She isn't really looking at the picture itself but if they can stay focused on the project. I was amazed because if he would have been at home he would have tossed that marker across the kitchen table and yelled, "I can't do this!". So I had to laugh when she telling me this.
It feels good when you get that validation as a mother, because as a stay home mom you don't get pats on the back for doing homework, making sure the boys don't hurt each other, that the dog is still alive, folding the laundry, washing the dishes, vacuuming, making the bed, or actually just keeping the house from not being destroyed. You sometimes wonder if you are doing a good job or not. Your rewards come to you in different ways and different stages. I am not making the big deals at work, creating a wonderful powerpoint presentation or creating some innovative tool or application. I am trying to raise three boys. To me that's the most important job I could ever have!
Jordan had his conference yesterday at his preschool and the teacher was commenting how kind, patience and loving he is. He has never been mean to anyone or had a fit. She even showed me a drawing he did that he focused on for quite awhile before just giving up and politely telling her he couldn't draw a face but the paper was covered with marker not only on the front but the back as well. He tried so hard. They were supposed to draw a self portrait for the beginning of the year and they do one at the end of the year. She isn't really looking at the picture itself but if they can stay focused on the project. I was amazed because if he would have been at home he would have tossed that marker across the kitchen table and yelled, "I can't do this!". So I had to laugh when she telling me this.
It feels good when you get that validation as a mother, because as a stay home mom you don't get pats on the back for doing homework, making sure the boys don't hurt each other, that the dog is still alive, folding the laundry, washing the dishes, vacuuming, making the bed, or actually just keeping the house from not being destroyed. You sometimes wonder if you are doing a good job or not. Your rewards come to you in different ways and different stages. I am not making the big deals at work, creating a wonderful powerpoint presentation or creating some innovative tool or application. I am trying to raise three boys. To me that's the most important job I could ever have!
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Giving Thanks!
We are trying to come up with traditions in our own home. We are not around family here in North Carolina and I feel it the most around the holidays! We are made aware of this when the kids have to come up with stories for school or Sunday School with traditions that their family practices around the holidays. We sit and there is silence as we come up with just a couple. I am going to try to write this without tears. I can do it now because the holidays aren't here yet so the emotions aren't at the surface quite yet.
Holidays are filled with traditions when I was growing up. I feel sad that the our children don't get to experience it the way Charlie and I did surrounded by family. I have a very LARGE family so it was always busy and filled with games, laughter, hugs, kisses, snuggles, food, drinks, and fun. When I say large my dad has 8 siblings and my mom has 4, so you can imagine the offspring that this produced. Yes we get a little crazy. Lots of little ones running around and still to this day, as I am one of the oldest grandchildren on each side! This was something that was very important to my grandparents and my parents. We all lived in the same very small town population like 600 when I was in elementary school and we moved like 1/2 hour away starting Jr. High. I remember every Christmas "Santa" came to Grandma and Grandpa's house~actually Baudoin's and Nelson's, we each had to sit on Santa's lap to get our gift (we still do this), on any given night before Christmas dad would take us around town and look at the lights, we would bake Christmas goodies with Grandma, we would have our Christmas pageants at school and at the Grand Meadow nursing home and usually see a relative in the crowd, I remember all the uncles and grandpa playing cards, going snowmobiling, decorating the tree and always being amazed at what "Clark Griswold" (my dad) would put up outside each year, dad cooking steaks on the grill -yes in Minnesota in December with his slippers and Santa hat.
Those are just a few but the one memory that gets me every year, as I sit in church in North Carolina, happens on Christmas Eve and we sing Silent Night by candlelight. I am instantly brought back to a candlelit Baudoin house (grandma and grandpa's until that house could no longer hold the gang) and it is dark and us children are lining up in the kitchen,each with a figurine (usually fighting who was going to get baby Jesus) from the nativity scene, the adults are singing Silent Night and we start walking through the dining room into the living room and we each place a figurine in the Nativity Scene and we sit and sing Christmas Carols. Sometimes, my dad either had the electric piano or most of the time he had his accordion. I don't know why but it gets me every time and a tear starts to run down my cheek at church and I dearly miss being with family at Christmas at that moment. I treasure those memories and I still can remember them today. They are memories you carry with you forever. Charlie's family on the other hand is the exact opposite as mine. They had a very close small family and they also gathered on holidays on a smaller scale but just as fun.
We have to come up with our own traditions as a family so the boys can have great memories too. For us, it was already built into the family structure so I don't think my parents really had to come up with it on their own! Every year rolls around and I say I am going to come up with something and the times come and go with the business of the season. This year I told myself I am going to do it with no excuses. So we will start with Thanksgiving....
I am writing this down because then I think or I know I will do it. It wasn't a fleeting idea...
I have these loose colored leaves I place around the house in the fall until the Christmas decorations go up. I have decided this year we are going to make a "Thankful Tree". At bedtime, each night, we are going to take a leaf and say what we each are thankful for and I will write it down on the leaf and they will hang it on the artificial green decorative tree in my dining room. We will do this now until Thanksgiving Day. I want the children to be thankful and appreciative of things in their life. Too many kids these days think they are entitled and I do not want my kids to grow up this way. We then can reflect on those things as we have our Thanksgiving dinner in our formal dining room. We started a new tradition a year ago and we order a fresh turkey from the local meat market and Charlie fixes it up, brines it the night before and he is the chef on that day. We have a sit down meal. We actually eat in the formal dining room. The furniture Charlie gives me a hard time about because we eat on it like once or twice a year. I am sure we aren't the only family who has a dining room that never gets eaten in. This is my attempt at starting some traditions.
One holiday at a time. We will tackle Christmas next month...
What are your traditions? Do you remember you childhood memories....if you do, you know they were important to you, so that's also why I am trying here to do the same so when my kids grow to adults they can look back and have stories to share with their children.
Holidays are filled with traditions when I was growing up. I feel sad that the our children don't get to experience it the way Charlie and I did surrounded by family. I have a very LARGE family so it was always busy and filled with games, laughter, hugs, kisses, snuggles, food, drinks, and fun. When I say large my dad has 8 siblings and my mom has 4, so you can imagine the offspring that this produced. Yes we get a little crazy. Lots of little ones running around and still to this day, as I am one of the oldest grandchildren on each side! This was something that was very important to my grandparents and my parents. We all lived in the same very small town population like 600 when I was in elementary school and we moved like 1/2 hour away starting Jr. High. I remember every Christmas "Santa" came to Grandma and Grandpa's house~actually Baudoin's and Nelson's, we each had to sit on Santa's lap to get our gift (we still do this), on any given night before Christmas dad would take us around town and look at the lights, we would bake Christmas goodies with Grandma, we would have our Christmas pageants at school and at the Grand Meadow nursing home and usually see a relative in the crowd, I remember all the uncles and grandpa playing cards, going snowmobiling, decorating the tree and always being amazed at what "Clark Griswold" (my dad) would put up outside each year, dad cooking steaks on the grill -yes in Minnesota in December with his slippers and Santa hat.
Those are just a few but the one memory that gets me every year, as I sit in church in North Carolina, happens on Christmas Eve and we sing Silent Night by candlelight. I am instantly brought back to a candlelit Baudoin house (grandma and grandpa's until that house could no longer hold the gang) and it is dark and us children are lining up in the kitchen,each with a figurine (usually fighting who was going to get baby Jesus) from the nativity scene, the adults are singing Silent Night and we start walking through the dining room into the living room and we each place a figurine in the Nativity Scene and we sit and sing Christmas Carols. Sometimes, my dad either had the electric piano or most of the time he had his accordion. I don't know why but it gets me every time and a tear starts to run down my cheek at church and I dearly miss being with family at Christmas at that moment. I treasure those memories and I still can remember them today. They are memories you carry with you forever. Charlie's family on the other hand is the exact opposite as mine. They had a very close small family and they also gathered on holidays on a smaller scale but just as fun.
We have to come up with our own traditions as a family so the boys can have great memories too. For us, it was already built into the family structure so I don't think my parents really had to come up with it on their own! Every year rolls around and I say I am going to come up with something and the times come and go with the business of the season. This year I told myself I am going to do it with no excuses. So we will start with Thanksgiving....
I am writing this down because then I think or I know I will do it. It wasn't a fleeting idea...
I have these loose colored leaves I place around the house in the fall until the Christmas decorations go up. I have decided this year we are going to make a "Thankful Tree". At bedtime, each night, we are going to take a leaf and say what we each are thankful for and I will write it down on the leaf and they will hang it on the artificial green decorative tree in my dining room. We will do this now until Thanksgiving Day. I want the children to be thankful and appreciative of things in their life. Too many kids these days think they are entitled and I do not want my kids to grow up this way. We then can reflect on those things as we have our Thanksgiving dinner in our formal dining room. We started a new tradition a year ago and we order a fresh turkey from the local meat market and Charlie fixes it up, brines it the night before and he is the chef on that day. We have a sit down meal. We actually eat in the formal dining room. The furniture Charlie gives me a hard time about because we eat on it like once or twice a year. I am sure we aren't the only family who has a dining room that never gets eaten in. This is my attempt at starting some traditions.
One holiday at a time. We will tackle Christmas next month...
What are your traditions? Do you remember you childhood memories....if you do, you know they were important to you, so that's also why I am trying here to do the same so when my kids grow to adults they can look back and have stories to share with their children.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Trying to Connect Again
Our lives on the weekends now consist of hockey and I have a feeling it will be that way come fall into winter for quite awhile. I have to get comfortable with that idea now. Which means we are at the "frozen chapel" and we are not able to attend Sunday worship service. We try when we can and when Braedyn's duty calls as the Bible Bearer at the beginning of service. Some of the games are in the afternoons which makes it nice because not a lot happens on Sunday afternoons in the winter except for the NFL at our house.
This has led me to explore other ideas on how to connect as a family and with our faith. I like going to church, because I feel it is the start to my week and it just feels good. I need that time with God. So it kind of throws me off kilter when I am not centered with that area of my life. Also, I feel it gives the kids a great foundation too and they just seem happier and a little bit nicer to each other at least for that day. They are reminded about what's important, as am I.
So tonight we gathered on the couch together after all of our nightly duties like baths, brushing teeth, etc were all done. Jordan played on the side quietly while Cooper did his school reading for 15 minutes and Braedyn did his 20 and I read a book beside them too. That way they can see mom reads too...I am not just a drill sergeant. Then after all of us where done reading, we all squeezed in together and Jordan sat on my lap as I read this new book I bought called "Heaven is for Real-for Kids". It is Colin Burpo's accounts of his visiting heaven and coming back to earth. So before reading the book I kind of had to give them an explanation as to why this book was written or I knew I would be getting questions and be interrupted every page I turned. I didn't know how my kids would react but I thought this is going to strike up some great conversations. I was right, it did. As I read it, there eye's would get big and they would ask questions about God, Jesus, and Heaven and the Holy Spirit. I had to laugh when I got to one of the beautiful pictures in the books and the little children had wings and what do you think they said... Braedyn's eyes got big, he smiled and said, "When we get to heaven we get to fly around with wings, that's pretty cool." Then when we were done with that book, I have a simple daily devotional book and they have asked me about it, so we decided we would also read for that day as well.
It was such a wonderful thing to share together and experience and at that moment I felt so much love amongst them. They weren't arguing, wrestling, punching each other, competing . It was quiet and we were together. I think I might have to start going to the church library and getting more books like this because when we are home this is going to be our new nightly routine. We don't get to always attend Sunday School like I would like them too because of the activities they are involved in, so I will share it at home.
If you have children or grandchildren it would make an excellent gift. If you don't know Coltin Burpo's story...just google it. Like a person told me today at Bible study, when you experience and see for you own eyes the vision of God or Jesus you can't stop talking about it and that's what happend to Coltin. What a wonderful way for us to get to experience what he witnessed.
This has led me to explore other ideas on how to connect as a family and with our faith. I like going to church, because I feel it is the start to my week and it just feels good. I need that time with God. So it kind of throws me off kilter when I am not centered with that area of my life. Also, I feel it gives the kids a great foundation too and they just seem happier and a little bit nicer to each other at least for that day. They are reminded about what's important, as am I.
So tonight we gathered on the couch together after all of our nightly duties like baths, brushing teeth, etc were all done. Jordan played on the side quietly while Cooper did his school reading for 15 minutes and Braedyn did his 20 and I read a book beside them too. That way they can see mom reads too...I am not just a drill sergeant. Then after all of us where done reading, we all squeezed in together and Jordan sat on my lap as I read this new book I bought called "Heaven is for Real-for Kids". It is Colin Burpo's accounts of his visiting heaven and coming back to earth. So before reading the book I kind of had to give them an explanation as to why this book was written or I knew I would be getting questions and be interrupted every page I turned. I didn't know how my kids would react but I thought this is going to strike up some great conversations. I was right, it did. As I read it, there eye's would get big and they would ask questions about God, Jesus, and Heaven and the Holy Spirit. I had to laugh when I got to one of the beautiful pictures in the books and the little children had wings and what do you think they said... Braedyn's eyes got big, he smiled and said, "When we get to heaven we get to fly around with wings, that's pretty cool." Then when we were done with that book, I have a simple daily devotional book and they have asked me about it, so we decided we would also read for that day as well.
It was such a wonderful thing to share together and experience and at that moment I felt so much love amongst them. They weren't arguing, wrestling, punching each other, competing . It was quiet and we were together. I think I might have to start going to the church library and getting more books like this because when we are home this is going to be our new nightly routine. We don't get to always attend Sunday School like I would like them too because of the activities they are involved in, so I will share it at home.
If you have children or grandchildren it would make an excellent gift. If you don't know Coltin Burpo's story...just google it. Like a person told me today at Bible study, when you experience and see for you own eyes the vision of God or Jesus you can't stop talking about it and that's what happend to Coltin. What a wonderful way for us to get to experience what he witnessed.
Braedyn's Neurology appointment
It is scheduled for Tuesday the 13th....maybe we can get some answers if Friday doesn't show anything.
Thanks for your prayers and concerns.
Love,
Allie
Thanks for your prayers and concerns.
Love,
Allie
Colorado
Just reading more about the elections in other states...HMM, makes me wonder how the demographics are going to change in the state of Colorado!
Only time will tell what the law will do, not only to the demographics but a whole lot of other things...
Interesting change of law, no doubt...Wonder if anyone will study that progress.
Only time will tell what the law will do, not only to the demographics but a whole lot of other things...
Interesting change of law, no doubt...Wonder if anyone will study that progress.
Disappointed American
I am not a political person at all but I am disappointed this morning as I woke up to the news of the presidency. I did not stay up to watch the anticipated race. I was sick of it all to be quite honest. I voted because it is my right as an American. I was hoping for a different outcome, but it is what it is and there is no use in getting upset or blasting the people that voted for the winner. I pray that this country can come together to make it a better place for everyone. They have a lot of work ahead. There a lot of things I would like to say but I will keep my mouth shut for fear I might not stop. I have been on Facebook reading a lot of people's comments and I have to pause for a minute and refrain from writing anything it would a lot easier to hit a dislike button. I refuse to fall into these kind of discussions. Everyone is entitled to their own opinions and everyone has one. No one is right and no one is wrong. That's what is the best part of American right~free speech...but is it free speech without judgement...probably never.
I pray the next 4 years are better than the last 4 years. To be quite honest there are a lot of concerns going through my head regarding the future of the country. I will leave it up to God and hopefully he will help lead the government in the right direction. It's not like just the President is running the country - in my opinion and the only one I will state is ~ to be quite honest~ he sure has a lot of other people making the critical decisions, he just has the title of President. I am not a political person nor do I know much about politics but I am a christian and so praying is all I will be doing instead of having political discussions with people because where is that going to get you! I know who my leader is and he isn't defined by red or blue....
I hope you will also join in praying that these people in political offices will come together for the greater good.
God Bless!
I pray the next 4 years are better than the last 4 years. To be quite honest there are a lot of concerns going through my head regarding the future of the country. I will leave it up to God and hopefully he will help lead the government in the right direction. It's not like just the President is running the country - in my opinion and the only one I will state is ~ to be quite honest~ he sure has a lot of other people making the critical decisions, he just has the title of President. I am not a political person nor do I know much about politics but I am a christian and so praying is all I will be doing instead of having political discussions with people because where is that going to get you! I know who my leader is and he isn't defined by red or blue....
I hope you will also join in praying that these people in political offices will come together for the greater good.
God Bless!
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Do You Know What Soundcloud Is?
Answer: Music Share Site
I have downloaded 5 songs I co-wrote to Soundcloud.........they are demos. We have 10 demos that are currently done but I just put 5 out on the site.
I have been thinking about putting them out there but always a little scared or hesitant as to what people will think, etc. I saw that Charlie's relative (Hailey) who was on The Voice and her friend and fellow contestant has some of their stuff out there as does other up and coming songwriter/musicians. It's a site for people to share music. I called to ask Tim (my music partner) about it and he agreed so I went ahead and did that today. Kind of fun for people to hear what we did and what he had worked on. The finished product. It doesn't get heard when it's just sitting in the studio at his place or at my house in the office.
It's hard for us to get together recently because of our busy lifestyles. One day we will get back in the studio. We both have still been working on stuff. I enjoy the creative outlet. I have always thought maybe I could do it and with a little encouragement from my husband, who is my biggest fan, I put myself out there and did it. I met Tim in 2010 and in the short times we got together in the studio, we came up with some pretty good material. Charlie always said he thought my writing should be put to music and he suggested to Tim that he look at my stuff and he did and he had just taken a couple and said yes. I told him that's just a couple~ I have journals full of stuff....
My goal when all the kids are in school is to start taking guitar lessons myself and my friend Leslie is a vocal coach so I could always go to her for some help in that area. I need a lot of help in that area! She would have her work cut out for her.
I hope you enjoy our stuff and feel free to leave a comment...
Here is the web link if you can access it.... You might have to have a soundcloud account which you can also access via facebook. (that's what I do)
http://soundcloud.com/allison-baudoin-jacobson
I have downloaded 5 songs I co-wrote to Soundcloud.........they are demos. We have 10 demos that are currently done but I just put 5 out on the site.
I have been thinking about putting them out there but always a little scared or hesitant as to what people will think, etc. I saw that Charlie's relative (Hailey) who was on The Voice and her friend and fellow contestant has some of their stuff out there as does other up and coming songwriter/musicians. It's a site for people to share music. I called to ask Tim (my music partner) about it and he agreed so I went ahead and did that today. Kind of fun for people to hear what we did and what he had worked on. The finished product. It doesn't get heard when it's just sitting in the studio at his place or at my house in the office.
It's hard for us to get together recently because of our busy lifestyles. One day we will get back in the studio. We both have still been working on stuff. I enjoy the creative outlet. I have always thought maybe I could do it and with a little encouragement from my husband, who is my biggest fan, I put myself out there and did it. I met Tim in 2010 and in the short times we got together in the studio, we came up with some pretty good material. Charlie always said he thought my writing should be put to music and he suggested to Tim that he look at my stuff and he did and he had just taken a couple and said yes. I told him that's just a couple~ I have journals full of stuff....
My goal when all the kids are in school is to start taking guitar lessons myself and my friend Leslie is a vocal coach so I could always go to her for some help in that area. I need a lot of help in that area! She would have her work cut out for her.
I hope you enjoy our stuff and feel free to leave a comment...
Here is the web link if you can access it.... You might have to have a soundcloud account which you can also access via facebook. (that's what I do)
http://soundcloud.com/allison-baudoin-jacobson
Voted!
I voted...how about you...
wondering if the nation can be changed
so many decisions to be made.
So many issues to take stands on
and so many opinions
no one's right and no one's wrong
can't we all just get along.
We'll see what the futures holds
but if it's like always
promises made are promises broken
I vote because it's my right
not because one of them
makes the future look bright.
We hope and pray
God Bless the USA
today and everyday
because we need it!
wondering if the nation can be changed
so many decisions to be made.
So many issues to take stands on
and so many opinions
no one's right and no one's wrong
can't we all just get along.
We'll see what the futures holds
but if it's like always
promises made are promises broken
I vote because it's my right
not because one of them
makes the future look bright.
We hope and pray
God Bless the USA
today and everyday
because we need it!
Monday, November 5, 2012
Outcome of Eye Dr.
The outcome of the appointment was Braedyn does not need glasses. So the result I was looking for and answer to the question of the headaches, was not answered today. We were hoping for an easy fix being that he would need glasses and that would solve the headache mystery.
The Dr. said he was fine on exam and his pressure in his eyes were fine and his optic nerves were fine so that was all positive things to hear. That doesn't solve our problem.
We will still meet with the Neurology Dr. which needs to still be scheduled and Friday he has an ENT appointment to see if it may be his sinuses. He has bad allergies so it may have something to do with his allergies and sinuses so we will try that avenue since I have to be there anyways. Cooper has his last ear check up in the same offices so they will have back to back appointments that day. The ENT Dr. had said previously he wanted to see Braedyn back to maybe check a CT scan of his sinuses if he was still having allergy problems.
Guess we will explore all avenues to see if it can be explained before we say it's just migraines. Just to be sure. I am just overly cautious when it comes to their health. Thank goodness we are blessed for our health insurance and Charlie has a good job that allows us to explore that route.
Also so I can get him some relief when they do happen or he can figure out how to make it better.
The Dr. said he was fine on exam and his pressure in his eyes were fine and his optic nerves were fine so that was all positive things to hear. That doesn't solve our problem.
We will still meet with the Neurology Dr. which needs to still be scheduled and Friday he has an ENT appointment to see if it may be his sinuses. He has bad allergies so it may have something to do with his allergies and sinuses so we will try that avenue since I have to be there anyways. Cooper has his last ear check up in the same offices so they will have back to back appointments that day. The ENT Dr. had said previously he wanted to see Braedyn back to maybe check a CT scan of his sinuses if he was still having allergy problems.
Guess we will explore all avenues to see if it can be explained before we say it's just migraines. Just to be sure. I am just overly cautious when it comes to their health. Thank goodness we are blessed for our health insurance and Charlie has a good job that allows us to explore that route.
Also so I can get him some relief when they do happen or he can figure out how to make it better.
Headache Free Weekend
Braedyn went all weekend without a headache. I was so happy and so was Braedyn! Maybe all it is, is he needs glasses. He didn't read all weekend or have to concentrate on anything all weekend. They just played and he had baseball.
He has his eye appointment today after school. I am hoping it is easy as that.
Will be tellling also if he gets a headache at school again since he didn't have one at home this weekend.
He has his eye appointment today after school. I am hoping it is easy as that.
Will be tellling also if he gets a headache at school again since he didn't have one at home this weekend.
Cooper's Debut at Goalie
Yesterday was Coop's debut at Goalie! He loved it.
He did a pretty good job. He blocked a lot of shots and had only 4 go by him, which were rebounded in because it's just to hard to get up so quickly with all that gear on! His team won by quite a few. I think we scored around 18 goals. We have a pretty good little team that just works really well together. They must be getting some good coaching too because so far they are the only team that actually keeps their players open and in different positions on the ice and they are passing the puck. The other couple teams kind of look like a rugby team they all go wherever the puck is and their whole team is over the puck! I am impressed at how they have improved and working together and not being a puck hog.
The age group of these kids is 6-8...
Here is some shots from yesterdays game and the game before that.
I think one day I might be investing in goalie equipment...
He did a pretty good job. He blocked a lot of shots and had only 4 go by him, which were rebounded in because it's just to hard to get up so quickly with all that gear on! His team won by quite a few. I think we scored around 18 goals. We have a pretty good little team that just works really well together. They must be getting some good coaching too because so far they are the only team that actually keeps their players open and in different positions on the ice and they are passing the puck. The other couple teams kind of look like a rugby team they all go wherever the puck is and their whole team is over the puck! I am impressed at how they have improved and working together and not being a puck hog.
The age group of these kids is 6-8...
Here is some shots from yesterdays game and the game before that.
I think one day I might be investing in goalie equipment...
a usual after dinner activity
One of many after dinner activities is rough housing...not to my liking but boys will be boys.
Cooper: "now you have to get me"
Mom: "Be careful and not to hard"
Jordan: "okay mom"
Cooper: In tears~ "Jordan hit me in the face"
Jordan: "Sorry mom, I forgot to him down low"
Mom: "say you're sorry"
Jordan: "Sorry Coopah"
Cooper: "It's not okay"
Then they start chasing each other again....
as I am shouting
"not so hard, he's only 3 why do you think he hits you so hard...."
and who got the short end of the stick...usually Cooper or Braedyn because they know better....
Jordan is going to be one tough little guy!
Cooper: "now you have to get me"
Mom: "Be careful and not to hard"
Jordan: "okay mom"
Cooper: In tears~ "Jordan hit me in the face"
Jordan: "Sorry mom, I forgot to him down low"
Mom: "say you're sorry"
Jordan: "Sorry Coopah"
Cooper: "It's not okay"
Then they start chasing each other again....
as I am shouting
"not so hard, he's only 3 why do you think he hits you so hard...."
and who got the short end of the stick...usually Cooper or Braedyn because they know better....
Jordan is going to be one tough little guy!
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Eye Appointment will be Monday
Braedyn's ophthalmology appointment is scheduled for Monday after school....
He had another headache after school yesterday and then it got better and he had two at school during the day on Friday. His teacher had sent me a note....
Hoping maybe all he needs is glasses. That would be an easy fix!
The Neurology people will be calling early next week and hopefully we will get in soon to see them.
Thanks for your prayers...
He was feeling good today and he went to his last baseball game of the season. I am anxious to see how it goes because yesterday his headache came on after he had running club at school. I am curious to see if it comes back after his baseball game today.
Following up: Yay! No headaches today after baseball...so thankful for that!
He had another headache after school yesterday and then it got better and he had two at school during the day on Friday. His teacher had sent me a note....
Hoping maybe all he needs is glasses. That would be an easy fix!
The Neurology people will be calling early next week and hopefully we will get in soon to see them.
Thanks for your prayers...
He was feeling good today and he went to his last baseball game of the season. I am anxious to see how it goes because yesterday his headache came on after he had running club at school. I am curious to see if it comes back after his baseball game today.
Following up: Yay! No headaches today after baseball...so thankful for that!
Goalie, Goalie, Goalie
Cooper's hockey team rotates the goalie position weekly for games. That way everyone has a chance to try it out to see if they like it because when they move up someone has to be the full time goalie. Cooper's name got drawn to be goalie this weekend for Sundays game. He was given the pads Thursday night because he had to practice Saturday with the pads to get used of them.
He had originally told me he never wanted to play goalie but after Saturday's practice he told me he always wants to be goalie and to get him goalie equipment and when he gets bigger that's the position he wants to play.
He took the ice with the pads on like a natural. I was thinking it would be difficult with his short little legs and goalie pads and holding the stick with the goalie gloves on but he did great. He is kind of built like a goalie...
He was doing great so I am looking forward to seeing how he does in the game. He is super excited to play goalie in the game.
He said when he got in the car Thursday night "I am GOLDBERG, THE GOALIE!"...(Mighty Ducks:)
I will have to get some pictures posted after the game.
Here's one I took with my camera phone at practice today but it's not that good....
He had originally told me he never wanted to play goalie but after Saturday's practice he told me he always wants to be goalie and to get him goalie equipment and when he gets bigger that's the position he wants to play.
He took the ice with the pads on like a natural. I was thinking it would be difficult with his short little legs and goalie pads and holding the stick with the goalie gloves on but he did great. He is kind of built like a goalie...
He was doing great so I am looking forward to seeing how he does in the game. He is super excited to play goalie in the game.
He said when he got in the car Thursday night "I am GOLDBERG, THE GOALIE!"...(Mighty Ducks:)
I will have to get some pictures posted after the game.
Here's one I took with my camera phone at practice today but it's not that good....
Friday, November 2, 2012
Migraines Go Away!
As I sit and ponder this blog post, I want you to know these are just my thoughts and I am sure there are other people out there who are dealing with much bigger issues but this is mine today and from this time on to when it gets better. I feel like getting a few things out there and I think anytime your child is hurting you just wish you could take away their pain no matter how big or small!
Today, before I wrote this blog, I was doing research on migraines in children. My oldest, Braedyn who is 8, has been complaining of headaches for some time now. I didn't take it seriously until yesterday. I would just give him some ibuprofen and make him drink some water. I thought it was because he was dehydrated, tired, hungry, not wanting to do homework or just stressed from school. It wasn't until yesterday, I became more concerned thinking there has got to be something more to these headaches. He has been coming home from school for about a month now complaining of headaches after school, he's in pain and very agitated and short tempered. It would become a struggle to get homework done, when he is easily distracted in the first place. He has been out of school two times in a month now because his head hurt so bad he couldn't get out of bed. Halloween night he had started to get a headache on our way to my friend's house but then he didn't say anything again until we were out trick or treating and he said it wasn't going away. We didn't go very long because Cooper and Jordan were tired too. We got home and he was in tears and holding his head it hurt so bad. I gave him Ibuprofen and that didn't work and by morning it was still there and he couldn't get up because it hurt. So I let him sleep in while I took the other boys to bed and daddy stayed home with him. He didn't get up until 10 am. He felt a little better. While he was sleeping, I had called the Dr. and made an appointment because this was the second time in a month of missing school and his headaches had never lasted this long before. On the way to the Dr.s office it came back again.
Now with an 8 year old, I am in a whole new area of Dr. appointments, as they can speak for themselves. They used to ask me the questions and you can only speculate as to what is bothering your child but today Braedyn could speak for himself. I let him do the talking and I had told him make sure you answer the questions and tell him everything that is bothering you. The Dr. did the exam and asked him questions to which some of them I was surprised by Braedyn's answers. Some of the answers were:
Yes, I get blurry vision when I have the headaches, my throat hurts. and sometimes I see spots.
When I read sometimes the words get all blurry after awhile.
My front of my head to the back hurts.
Sometimes I can't see the board at school but when I am close I can.
Loud noises make it worse and at the ice rink (cold)
The only thing that makes it better is laying down in a dark room and close my eyes.
As he is saying these things and tons of things are racing through my mind. I tend to worry about him a lot. I just want him to be healthy and happy. He has migraines, he might need glasses, maybe he has a tumor....We just had Braedyn's baseball coach's son this spring have some similar symptoms and he was 10 and he ended up having a brain tumor. So that stuff scares me! That is why I took him in too. Tylenol and Ibuprofen do not work and I feel helpless when he hurts.
The Dr. felt like this problem warranted a visit to the Ophthalmologist and a Pediatric Neurologist to rule out everything else and make sure that he is just having migraines and nothing else is causing it and see what the plan is to take care of them.
After the appointment I took him to lunch at Chik-Fil-A, one of his favorites, and he still wasn't feeling the greatest. He also told me he was scared because of what happened to Carson he didn't want that to happen to him. Okay, I had to hold back my tears when he said that. He was well aware of what happened with Carson the 10 year old I spoke of previously. The boy is always thinking. Also if you know Braedyn with his puppy dog eyes and when they are sad, it breaks you heart and it touches your soul. At this moment, I wished he didn't have to deal with this. I told him, "that wasn't going to happen and we will hopefully get your headaches figured out so you don't have them anymore or figure out why they are happening and stop them before they get so bad." We came home and he took a nap after he took some pain medicine the Dr. prescribed.
Unfortunately Cooper had hockey, so that meant Braedyn had to come along. I was dreading going because I knew it would come back once we got there and also knowing he didn't feel good I felt like a horrible mom dragging him there. He started to feel better after his nap, so we packed up and started our hour trek to the hockey rink. It came back in the car and you can see it in his eyes, as he was holding his head and almost crying. I focused on the road with tears in my eyes not letting him see it was affecting me. At this point, I just wanted to take his pain away and I felt helpless. He looked so sad I just wanted to pull the car over and give him a big hug and hold him. He says it feels better when I massage his forehead.
Eventually, it went away again and we were able to make it through hockey and then we got home and it came back again. Is this normal for migraines? It is so frustrating for all involved.
He woke up this morning feeling better so I am praying he makes it through a whole day with no headaches.
I feel like a horrible mom after today, thinking all this time I was telling him, oh suck it up, just drink some water or go lay down when he actually is having this real problem. I talked to his teacher to make her aware of what is going on because the nurse's office is just down the hallway so he can go lay down in a dark room if it comes on again at school and to call me. I am trying to keep a journal of when they come on and what is happening around him to maybe trigger it.
I have to make his other appointments today and I am praying that this is all it is and we can get his migraines under control. He is only 8 years old and I hate that he has to already deal with this. I know when I have a headache, people better just leave me alone and I am not a very nice person. I can't imagine how he feels! I can understand now why he and his brother's have been so awful with each other too. Braedyn's temper is very short so now I get it. That explains a lot.
I worry about him so much because he thinks so in depth about everything. The poor kid said something to the Dr. yesterday as the Dr. was trying send the prescription to the pharmacy and The Dr. said, "sorry this is taking so long I am trying to find a liquid". Braedyn's response was, "That's okay if it is a pill, I can take it, I take lots of pills." The Dr. laughed and we made light of it and Braedyn said, "I take my vitamins, prilosec, allergy medicine, sometimes actifed, and my pulmicort, and my nose spray." Then I got to thinking. Wow, this kid does take a lot of medicine compared to my other kids. I don't like that he does but it's what he needs to stay healthy.
He was in good spirits this morning and I think he feels better knowing what is happening with his body and the Dr. explained it to him so thoroughly. So he's not left wondering what the heck is happening with my head. I will keep you updated as to what is going on with him. Just keep him in your prayers that he can deal with this new problem that has presented itself and that is all it is.
Love,
Allie
PS~ If any of your children have had or if you have had migraines, What has worked for you? Have you had similar things happen? I will take any advice at this point. Thank you!
Today, before I wrote this blog, I was doing research on migraines in children. My oldest, Braedyn who is 8, has been complaining of headaches for some time now. I didn't take it seriously until yesterday. I would just give him some ibuprofen and make him drink some water. I thought it was because he was dehydrated, tired, hungry, not wanting to do homework or just stressed from school. It wasn't until yesterday, I became more concerned thinking there has got to be something more to these headaches. He has been coming home from school for about a month now complaining of headaches after school, he's in pain and very agitated and short tempered. It would become a struggle to get homework done, when he is easily distracted in the first place. He has been out of school two times in a month now because his head hurt so bad he couldn't get out of bed. Halloween night he had started to get a headache on our way to my friend's house but then he didn't say anything again until we were out trick or treating and he said it wasn't going away. We didn't go very long because Cooper and Jordan were tired too. We got home and he was in tears and holding his head it hurt so bad. I gave him Ibuprofen and that didn't work and by morning it was still there and he couldn't get up because it hurt. So I let him sleep in while I took the other boys to bed and daddy stayed home with him. He didn't get up until 10 am. He felt a little better. While he was sleeping, I had called the Dr. and made an appointment because this was the second time in a month of missing school and his headaches had never lasted this long before. On the way to the Dr.s office it came back again.
Now with an 8 year old, I am in a whole new area of Dr. appointments, as they can speak for themselves. They used to ask me the questions and you can only speculate as to what is bothering your child but today Braedyn could speak for himself. I let him do the talking and I had told him make sure you answer the questions and tell him everything that is bothering you. The Dr. did the exam and asked him questions to which some of them I was surprised by Braedyn's answers. Some of the answers were:
Yes, I get blurry vision when I have the headaches, my throat hurts. and sometimes I see spots.
When I read sometimes the words get all blurry after awhile.
My front of my head to the back hurts.
Sometimes I can't see the board at school but when I am close I can.
Loud noises make it worse and at the ice rink (cold)
The only thing that makes it better is laying down in a dark room and close my eyes.
As he is saying these things and tons of things are racing through my mind. I tend to worry about him a lot. I just want him to be healthy and happy. He has migraines, he might need glasses, maybe he has a tumor....We just had Braedyn's baseball coach's son this spring have some similar symptoms and he was 10 and he ended up having a brain tumor. So that stuff scares me! That is why I took him in too. Tylenol and Ibuprofen do not work and I feel helpless when he hurts.
The Dr. felt like this problem warranted a visit to the Ophthalmologist and a Pediatric Neurologist to rule out everything else and make sure that he is just having migraines and nothing else is causing it and see what the plan is to take care of them.
After the appointment I took him to lunch at Chik-Fil-A, one of his favorites, and he still wasn't feeling the greatest. He also told me he was scared because of what happened to Carson he didn't want that to happen to him. Okay, I had to hold back my tears when he said that. He was well aware of what happened with Carson the 10 year old I spoke of previously. The boy is always thinking. Also if you know Braedyn with his puppy dog eyes and when they are sad, it breaks you heart and it touches your soul. At this moment, I wished he didn't have to deal with this. I told him, "that wasn't going to happen and we will hopefully get your headaches figured out so you don't have them anymore or figure out why they are happening and stop them before they get so bad." We came home and he took a nap after he took some pain medicine the Dr. prescribed.
Unfortunately Cooper had hockey, so that meant Braedyn had to come along. I was dreading going because I knew it would come back once we got there and also knowing he didn't feel good I felt like a horrible mom dragging him there. He started to feel better after his nap, so we packed up and started our hour trek to the hockey rink. It came back in the car and you can see it in his eyes, as he was holding his head and almost crying. I focused on the road with tears in my eyes not letting him see it was affecting me. At this point, I just wanted to take his pain away and I felt helpless. He looked so sad I just wanted to pull the car over and give him a big hug and hold him. He says it feels better when I massage his forehead.
Eventually, it went away again and we were able to make it through hockey and then we got home and it came back again. Is this normal for migraines? It is so frustrating for all involved.
He woke up this morning feeling better so I am praying he makes it through a whole day with no headaches.
I feel like a horrible mom after today, thinking all this time I was telling him, oh suck it up, just drink some water or go lay down when he actually is having this real problem. I talked to his teacher to make her aware of what is going on because the nurse's office is just down the hallway so he can go lay down in a dark room if it comes on again at school and to call me. I am trying to keep a journal of when they come on and what is happening around him to maybe trigger it.
I have to make his other appointments today and I am praying that this is all it is and we can get his migraines under control. He is only 8 years old and I hate that he has to already deal with this. I know when I have a headache, people better just leave me alone and I am not a very nice person. I can't imagine how he feels! I can understand now why he and his brother's have been so awful with each other too. Braedyn's temper is very short so now I get it. That explains a lot.
I worry about him so much because he thinks so in depth about everything. The poor kid said something to the Dr. yesterday as the Dr. was trying send the prescription to the pharmacy and The Dr. said, "sorry this is taking so long I am trying to find a liquid". Braedyn's response was, "That's okay if it is a pill, I can take it, I take lots of pills." The Dr. laughed and we made light of it and Braedyn said, "I take my vitamins, prilosec, allergy medicine, sometimes actifed, and my pulmicort, and my nose spray." Then I got to thinking. Wow, this kid does take a lot of medicine compared to my other kids. I don't like that he does but it's what he needs to stay healthy.
He was in good spirits this morning and I think he feels better knowing what is happening with his body and the Dr. explained it to him so thoroughly. So he's not left wondering what the heck is happening with my head. I will keep you updated as to what is going on with him. Just keep him in your prayers that he can deal with this new problem that has presented itself and that is all it is.
Love,
Allie
PS~ If any of your children have had or if you have had migraines, What has worked for you? Have you had similar things happen? I will take any advice at this point. Thank you!
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Trick or Treat
We celebrated Halloween with some good friends in their neighborhood last night. It was chilly and very reminiscent of a MN trick or treating night. Here are some fun pictures from the evening! Mom pulled out another job from her many hats...A makeup artist! I had fun doing that....
Braedyn: Dracula (or as he said Durakila)
Cooper: Zach Parise from MN Wild
Jordan: Batman
Braedyn: Dracula (or as he said Durakila)
Cooper: Zach Parise from MN Wild
Jordan: Batman
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Happy Halloween
Sometimes kids can say the simplest things and can make an adult reflect on those honest remarks. I hear people comment on how the stores already have the Christmas decorations on display in the stores and how it bothers them. They aren't the only ones. I realized last night kids pay attention to those kind of things too! I was putting Jordan to bed last night and while we were lying there he had told me he wanted some sort of new toy and I said, "well you know, Christmas will be here soon, maybe you can ask Santa for it." Jordan then said, "It's Halloween mom! What~it's almost christmas time?" I told him, "Christmas isn't for another 55 days or so." He had a funny look on his face and responded by saying, "but that is a long time from now, so why do they have christmas trees in the stores already."
As time has went on social media and the shopping world is so focused on moving from one holiday to another~and it's all about the $ ~ can we all just have a child like mind and think about one holiday at a time and live in the moments. The holidays are all for my children and just being together. We rush everyday, I don't want to rush my holidays away too.
I hope everyone has a safe, warm, and fun filled Halloween day and evening. Don't eat too much candy! ENJOY and may you only be haunted by happy memories!!
Enjoy some throwback Halloween pictures:)!
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| Jordan's first halloween my pea in a pod |
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| Joe Mauer and Red Ranger |
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| Super Cooper |
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| Braedyn at 2 was a dinosaur but he thought it was an alligator! Even at 2 he knew he wanted to be a Gator! |
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| at the Pumpkin Patch visiting Auntie Anita in Shakopee |
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| Big pumpkins! |
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| pumpkin cheeks! |
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| Turtle at 3 |
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| this still is my favorite costume of all!!! Chicken Lil! Cooper at 1. |
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| Love those cheeks! |
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| Braedyn as Spiderman! |
Gator Game
Here are some pictures from the football game in the Swamp in Gainesville at the University of Florida! I can't wait to go back and neither can the boys! That was a blast! It was a football experience I had never had before....Florida vs Kentucky with a Gator win 38-0!
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| It's great to be a Florida Gator!!! |
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| UF (getting ready to come out) |
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| Welcome to the Jungle! |
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| I always saw this sign on TV now I got to see it in person which was better! |
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| kickoff! |
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| sea of Orange and Blue! |
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| Like father, like son! |
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| He's out! The heat got to him. But I guess the 90,000 screaming fans didn't bother him! |
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| still to tired to walk back to truck~hitching a ride |
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| Future Gators! |
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| My Gator Boys |
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| and even check out dad's tattoo ~ true Gator fan! |
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| Charlie spent many hours here and now we are back tailgating! |
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| Tailgating |
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| Alligator on campus at Lake Alice |
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| Don't feed the Alligators and really a sign that says no swimming, does that mean someone actually did! |
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