First of all, for those of you who aren't pop culture junkies like me, I'll tell you that the title of this blog is a line from an old rock song by The Offspring (old being about 15 or so years ago--I think). At the beginning of the song, the lead singer says the line and then the guitars and drums hit hard. That was my morning today. Like a soft warning came the words, "gotta keep 'em separated," and then the proverbial crap hit the fan. Boom! But even in a decent-sized home with 3 floors, how do you keep 4 children away from each other?
For the sake of this blog and to prove my point, let's assign each of my children a name. Dallin can be "gasoline", Elijah "nitrous oxide" (NOS), Amelia "pure alcohol", and Felicity "rocket fuel" (these are just the most explosive substances I could think of; I always hated chemistry classes). When brought in contact with a spark, all 4 substances are totally flammable / combustible. All morning, if one my children came in close contact with another child, it was as if one was that flammable substance and the other the spark. Kaboom! Oh no, today my children could not simply be as oil and water and not mix. Nope. They had to burst into flames. By default, I became the firefighter. Funny that as a young girl I always wanted to marry a firefighter (it's that man in uniform fantasy), but never did I have the desire to be one.
Constantly putting out fires during our morning routine means that I am regularly running up and down 2 flights of stairs. That is neither an easy nor an enjoyable task for me right now!
Allow me to give you some examples of what I mean when I say sometimes I "gotta keep 'em separated", as much as they are drawn together. (Moth and the flame, anyone?). This morning Amelia wanted to give Dallin a hug. Really, what's wrong with that? Well, Dallin was having none of it. He pushed her away while Elijah grabbed her arms and pinned them behind her back. Mean! Here's another example: Felicity spent much of the morning pretending to play volleyball with a balloon Dallin had blown up for her a few days ago. Great! She was leaving me alone and having a great time while not hurting herself or anyone else. Enter Amelia and Elijah who decide it would be fun to play keep-away with Felicity's balloon. What do you think happened? She screamed like a banshee, she did. If you were 3 years old, what would you have done? One more example from this morning involved Amelia reading a story book and not letting Felicity look at it at the same time. Why couldn't Felicity have looked on while Amelia read? I know not. All I know is that another fire was set.
And let's not forget the frequent fires that begin because someone didn't get the placemat, bowl, spoon, cup, etc, they wanted to eat their meal with! Those are the most fun. Not! What's next? "She's breathing my air?" "He's giving me dirty looks?" I already get complaints like, "I wanted to say the dinner prayer!" and "I wanted to sit next to Mom!" Somebody give me a break!
Lord, give me patience and compassion, and give it to me now!
Richard and I try to teach our children that someday when they are all grown they will live away from each other and miss the time when they saw one another every day. We tell them that once they have families of their own, they will call one another "friend" instead of "brother" or "sister". Of course they don't believe us now, but I have no doubt that what we say will come true. One of Richard's best friends is his little--I mean younger--brother Lawrence. They talk and text often. Lawrence still cracks Richard up. In fact, he puts me in stitches each time I talk to him, too. As for me and my sisters, we don't talk as much as we could / should, but I miss them sick and wish they both didn't live so far away. Dena is in Arizona and Juli is in California. They both have children, too, and it makes me sad that my children don't know their cousins well.
Okay. I need to stop before I get weepy, something that comes much too easily for me these days. But before I go, I want my children to know just how much I love them--challenges, obstacles, tough times and all. Furthermore, I acknowledge and recognize that childhood is a time for learning and growth, trial and error, and that as their mom it is my job to lead and guide them, holding their hands and carrying them when necessary. It is a job I am up to the challenge for. I love you Dallin, Elijah, Amelia, Felicity and Aubrielle.
Love, Cara (Mommy)
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Monday, March 23, 2009
House Rules
Everyone has house rules such as cleaning up after yourself, being helpful, and expressing gratitude. Well, I would like to take a moment to list a permanent record of my house rules, since my family seems to keep forgetting. Yes, I'll openly admit that many of them are anal retentive, though I refuse to apologize. It's just the way I am, and the way I want to stay, too. After all, you have to admit that anal retentive persons keep a cleaner house and run a tighter ship.
Here is my list of rules, in no particular order:
01) Do your chores each day to the best of your ability, remembering that quality counts.
02) Be helpful to others, particularly those who are younger, smaller or shorter than you are.
03) If you're going to play music, play it loud!
04) Do not sit at my kitchen table and expect to eat before you have accomplished everything that is expected of you.
05) Display common courtesy.
06) Use common sense! (Richard, this includes you.)
07) Compliment others liberally and lavishly.
08) Never say "hate". Instead use "dislike" or "I don't care for".
09) Do not tattle tale.
10) Wash and flush after using the bathroom.
11) Be affectionate.
12) Be observant. (If the floor has just been mopped, don't walk across it; if someone is sad, give them a hug; if someone is sick or hurt, ask what you can do to help.)
13) If you make a mess, clean it up. We don't employ a maid.
14) Do not chew with your mouth open, speak when your mouth is full, or shovel food into your mouth as if you haven't eaten in days. No double-dipping.
15) Do not exclude anyone who wants to play with you.
16) Use kind words and do not name-call.
17) From kindergarten we learned: take turns and keep your hands and feet to yourself
18) Say "I love you" countless times a day to your friends and family members.
19) Tell Mom what sounds good for dinner.
20) Remind Mom and Tera when you have an early-release school day.
21) When vacuuming, make clean straight lines.
22) Make sure homework is done in a timely manner.
23) Do not waste your time, or the time of others.
24) Remember that dinner is only served once a day, so come when you are called.
25) No nose picking, nail biting, throat clearing, or expelling noises or smells from any part of your body.
26) Unless it is an emergency, do not interrupt a personal or telephone conversation.
27) Do not throw anything in the house!
28) Do not leave hand prints on Mom's stainless steel appliances.
29) All of President Hinckley's B's apply: (Be Grateful, Be Smart, Be Clean, Be True, Be Humble, Be Prayerful...). So do the Ten Commandments.
30) Do not waste time, money, food, electricity, water, gas, heat, soap, shampoo, etc.
31) And most importantly, if it ain't broke, don't fix it!
And the list could go on, but I will spare you and my family. Ahh... I feel better now that I have gotten that off my chest. Being the type of person that I am, I will likely think of other rules I wish to add to my list--probably in the middle of the night when struck with insomnia. It's my lot in life--it's not a lot, but it's my life!
Cara
Here is my list of rules, in no particular order:
01) Do your chores each day to the best of your ability, remembering that quality counts.
02) Be helpful to others, particularly those who are younger, smaller or shorter than you are.
03) If you're going to play music, play it loud!
04) Do not sit at my kitchen table and expect to eat before you have accomplished everything that is expected of you.
05) Display common courtesy.
06) Use common sense! (Richard, this includes you.)
07) Compliment others liberally and lavishly.
08) Never say "hate". Instead use "dislike" or "I don't care for".
09) Do not tattle tale.
10) Wash and flush after using the bathroom.
11) Be affectionate.
12) Be observant. (If the floor has just been mopped, don't walk across it; if someone is sad, give them a hug; if someone is sick or hurt, ask what you can do to help.)
13) If you make a mess, clean it up. We don't employ a maid.
14) Do not chew with your mouth open, speak when your mouth is full, or shovel food into your mouth as if you haven't eaten in days. No double-dipping.
15) Do not exclude anyone who wants to play with you.
16) Use kind words and do not name-call.
17) From kindergarten we learned: take turns and keep your hands and feet to yourself
18) Say "I love you" countless times a day to your friends and family members.
19) Tell Mom what sounds good for dinner.
20) Remind Mom and Tera when you have an early-release school day.
21) When vacuuming, make clean straight lines.
22) Make sure homework is done in a timely manner.
23) Do not waste your time, or the time of others.
24) Remember that dinner is only served once a day, so come when you are called.
25) No nose picking, nail biting, throat clearing, or expelling noises or smells from any part of your body.
26) Unless it is an emergency, do not interrupt a personal or telephone conversation.
27) Do not throw anything in the house!
28) Do not leave hand prints on Mom's stainless steel appliances.
29) All of President Hinckley's B's apply: (Be Grateful, Be Smart, Be Clean, Be True, Be Humble, Be Prayerful...). So do the Ten Commandments.
30) Do not waste time, money, food, electricity, water, gas, heat, soap, shampoo, etc.
31) And most importantly, if it ain't broke, don't fix it!
And the list could go on, but I will spare you and my family. Ahh... I feel better now that I have gotten that off my chest. Being the type of person that I am, I will likely think of other rules I wish to add to my list--probably in the middle of the night when struck with insomnia. It's my lot in life--it's not a lot, but it's my life!
Cara
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Cara No See Feet
Were I part of tribe somewhere, that would be my name right now, as I cannot see my feet, and haven't been able to for sometime now. You may wonder, just how important is it to see your own feet? Consider the next time you want to check to make sure your shoelaces are tied. Consider the next time you want to trim your toenails or paint them. And here's the kicker: the next time you want to zip up your high-heeled hooker boots so you can paint the town red. For these reasons and many more, it is important to be able to see your feet.
Today I am 34 weeks along in my pregnancy--6 weeks to go! Over the course of the next 6 weeks, my baby will continue to grow and put on weight at a steady pace. This I know to be true. Sometimes I wonder just how much bigger my belly can possibly get, and can my skin actually stretch any farther without ripping. Sometimes I understand when I get comments like, "Do you really only have 1 baby in there?" and "Shouldn't you have had that baby already?" and "Wow! You're huge!" When you are less than 5 feet tall and normally 100 pounds, where else is the baby gonna go but straight out front?
Tonight after family scripture study, Richard and I gathered all of the children around us in preparation for family prayer. Before we called on one of them to offer the prayer, at the suggestion of my best friend Tera, we asked each of the children to voice something specific they wanted to pray about this week. (This is a super idea because then each member of the family knows what the others are concerned about and then we can help pray for that concern). Most members of my family had concerns about me and baby Aubrielle, myself included. You see, last night upon returning home from Mom's Night Out with my girlfriends, I climbed into bed and laid down only to begin 90 minutes of contractions and difficulty breathing. It was a little scary because as much as I don't want to be pregnant anymore, I also don't want to have a premature baby. Thankfully the contractions stopped, my breathing improved, and I was able to get some sleep. Richard is convinced that the contractions were brought on mainly by my tendency to "overdo it".
Yesterday closed out a particularly hairy week for me and my family. That is the one and only reason I didn't blog for almost a week! Each day was filled with appointments with doctors and dentists, visiting teaching, being visit taught, late work nights for Richard, Relief Society Presidency responsibilities, etc. Yesterday Richard practically begged me to take it easy and leave all of the heavy housework to him. As if I could just sit around with my feet up while he attended a meeting and ran errands! No way! As an anal retentive person, I need and crave that feeling of accomplishment and a job well done. So while he was gone I got most of the house scrubbed. No sooner did he get home than we were all outside working. While I cut the hair of Richard and both boys, weeds were pulled, yards were raked, the garage swept and the dog (he's more like a horse) was bathed. Needless to say that I never sat down till I went out with my girlfriends that night. It was too much.
I am grateful that my family is sincerely concerned for me and the baby. I am pleased to not be alone. To all of you who have prayed for Aubrielle and me, I thank you. Know that I have felt the power of those prayers given on our behalf, and that I will reciprocate with much alacrity.
Since I've just swallowed an Ambien, I will bid you all goodnight before I start misspelling words or writing incomplete sentences. My closest friends would never let me outlive that!
Love, Cara
Today I am 34 weeks along in my pregnancy--6 weeks to go! Over the course of the next 6 weeks, my baby will continue to grow and put on weight at a steady pace. This I know to be true. Sometimes I wonder just how much bigger my belly can possibly get, and can my skin actually stretch any farther without ripping. Sometimes I understand when I get comments like, "Do you really only have 1 baby in there?" and "Shouldn't you have had that baby already?" and "Wow! You're huge!" When you are less than 5 feet tall and normally 100 pounds, where else is the baby gonna go but straight out front?
Tonight after family scripture study, Richard and I gathered all of the children around us in preparation for family prayer. Before we called on one of them to offer the prayer, at the suggestion of my best friend Tera, we asked each of the children to voice something specific they wanted to pray about this week. (This is a super idea because then each member of the family knows what the others are concerned about and then we can help pray for that concern). Most members of my family had concerns about me and baby Aubrielle, myself included. You see, last night upon returning home from Mom's Night Out with my girlfriends, I climbed into bed and laid down only to begin 90 minutes of contractions and difficulty breathing. It was a little scary because as much as I don't want to be pregnant anymore, I also don't want to have a premature baby. Thankfully the contractions stopped, my breathing improved, and I was able to get some sleep. Richard is convinced that the contractions were brought on mainly by my tendency to "overdo it".
Yesterday closed out a particularly hairy week for me and my family. That is the one and only reason I didn't blog for almost a week! Each day was filled with appointments with doctors and dentists, visiting teaching, being visit taught, late work nights for Richard, Relief Society Presidency responsibilities, etc. Yesterday Richard practically begged me to take it easy and leave all of the heavy housework to him. As if I could just sit around with my feet up while he attended a meeting and ran errands! No way! As an anal retentive person, I need and crave that feeling of accomplishment and a job well done. So while he was gone I got most of the house scrubbed. No sooner did he get home than we were all outside working. While I cut the hair of Richard and both boys, weeds were pulled, yards were raked, the garage swept and the dog (he's more like a horse) was bathed. Needless to say that I never sat down till I went out with my girlfriends that night. It was too much.
I am grateful that my family is sincerely concerned for me and the baby. I am pleased to not be alone. To all of you who have prayed for Aubrielle and me, I thank you. Know that I have felt the power of those prayers given on our behalf, and that I will reciprocate with much alacrity.
Since I've just swallowed an Ambien, I will bid you all goodnight before I start misspelling words or writing incomplete sentences. My closest friends would never let me outlive that!
Love, Cara
Monday, March 16, 2009
I would rather...
...scrub toilets, clean out the refrigerator, change poopy diapers, shampoo the dog, pull weeds, wash windows, etc. than go to the dentist. But that is just what I did today. Yes, it was just a routine cleaning without any fillings or (Heaven forbid!) root canals. However, I'd still rather do all of the jobs listed above than have anyone working in my mouth. I hate it! I'd even rather go for an annual visit with my gynecologist, if you know what I mean. My aversion is that bad.
So I'll openly admit that one of the worst parts about having someone working in my mouth is that it means I cannot talk. That's torture to me, as I am a rather garrulous person. Then there is the fact that you have to keep your mouth stretched open for an hour. Ouch! And let's not forget all of the scraping and picking that goes on while your mouth is open and drying out. Yuck!
My best girlfriend Tera shares my sentiments. So much so, that she claims she'd rather have a Cesarean Section than go to the dentist. Although I, too, have also had 4 Cesarean Sections, I don't know that I'd go as far as to agree. After all, each time you have a Cesarean Section, there are needles involved, and you don't want to get me started on those!
Okay. Now you all know of my severe aversion to dentists. Such is the reason I hadn't been in about 7 years until today. You think that is bad, Richard hasn't been since we got married almost 14 years ago. He's in for it, because I made him an appointment. He was none too happy about it, either. He can just grin and bear it, though, because as a man there is so much he never has to do. Am I right, ladies? I think so!
That's enough about dentists, those crazy people who stick their hands inside the mouths of strangers. Disgusting!
Cara
So I'll openly admit that one of the worst parts about having someone working in my mouth is that it means I cannot talk. That's torture to me, as I am a rather garrulous person. Then there is the fact that you have to keep your mouth stretched open for an hour. Ouch! And let's not forget all of the scraping and picking that goes on while your mouth is open and drying out. Yuck!
My best girlfriend Tera shares my sentiments. So much so, that she claims she'd rather have a Cesarean Section than go to the dentist. Although I, too, have also had 4 Cesarean Sections, I don't know that I'd go as far as to agree. After all, each time you have a Cesarean Section, there are needles involved, and you don't want to get me started on those!
Okay. Now you all know of my severe aversion to dentists. Such is the reason I hadn't been in about 7 years until today. You think that is bad, Richard hasn't been since we got married almost 14 years ago. He's in for it, because I made him an appointment. He was none too happy about it, either. He can just grin and bear it, though, because as a man there is so much he never has to do. Am I right, ladies? I think so!
That's enough about dentists, those crazy people who stick their hands inside the mouths of strangers. Disgusting!
Cara
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Mr Fix-It
That's Richard for you: Mr Fix-It, though he has been known to break things, too. Today is a good example of why I refer to my husband as such. This morning while the rest of our family was getting ready for church, Richard put a roast and potatoes in the crock pot to slow-cook for dinner. Rather than line the kitchen sink with a grocery bag before peeling the potatoes, he merely peeled them directly into the sink. He then proceeded to send the peels of 5 pounds of potatoes down the garbage disposal at once. Needless to say, the disposal was none too happy about this. You guessed it: the sink clogged up. Needless to say, I was none too happy about it, either, and I was sure to let Richard know of my feelings. After all, how can a cook survive without a functioning kitchen sink?
But it was time to leave for church. We had to go, leaving behind the smelly, disgusting mess. Upon returning home from church 4 hours later, Richard went to work trying to remedy his mistake. In the end, it was necessary for him to take the pipes apart below the sink, resulting in another mess though ultimately fixing the problem. Hooray!
Let us all extol the praises of Mr Fix-It!
In our married life, Richard has fixed, built, replaced, painted, and renovated nearly everything inside and outside our homes. And although he loves to use his power tools, the man can work the hammer! Just some of the home-improvement projects / jobs he has accomplished are (keep in mind he is completely self-taught): crown molding, wainscoting, painting, finishing a basement from concrete and insulated walls, landscaping and sprinkler systems, tiling, basic plumbing and electrical, shelf building, etc. Please note that he also does all of his best work after the rest of the family has gone to bed at night. No, he is not a Weekend Warrior. He's so much more!
Had I kept track of all the home-improvement projects Richard has done on his own through trial and error, and estimated the amount of money it has saved our family, no doubt it would be in the tens of thousands. Thank you, Mr Fix-It! For your time, talent, skill, and much more, I am so grateful that you are my husband. After all, you're a handy guy to have around!
Oh, and Mr Fix-It, I'll be sure to pay you later for your services in a way that only I can. Hee, hee!
Love, Cara
But it was time to leave for church. We had to go, leaving behind the smelly, disgusting mess. Upon returning home from church 4 hours later, Richard went to work trying to remedy his mistake. In the end, it was necessary for him to take the pipes apart below the sink, resulting in another mess though ultimately fixing the problem. Hooray!
Let us all extol the praises of Mr Fix-It!
In our married life, Richard has fixed, built, replaced, painted, and renovated nearly everything inside and outside our homes. And although he loves to use his power tools, the man can work the hammer! Just some of the home-improvement projects / jobs he has accomplished are (keep in mind he is completely self-taught): crown molding, wainscoting, painting, finishing a basement from concrete and insulated walls, landscaping and sprinkler systems, tiling, basic plumbing and electrical, shelf building, etc. Please note that he also does all of his best work after the rest of the family has gone to bed at night. No, he is not a Weekend Warrior. He's so much more!
Had I kept track of all the home-improvement projects Richard has done on his own through trial and error, and estimated the amount of money it has saved our family, no doubt it would be in the tens of thousands. Thank you, Mr Fix-It! For your time, talent, skill, and much more, I am so grateful that you are my husband. After all, you're a handy guy to have around!
Oh, and Mr Fix-It, I'll be sure to pay you later for your services in a way that only I can. Hee, hee!
Love, Cara
Saturday, March 14, 2009
The "Pile of Derby"
Huh? What on earth is a "Pile of Derby"? Well, it's more commonly known as the "Pinewood Derby", although Mimi (6 years old in a few weeks!) would disagree. The Pinewood Derby is held annually at our church building for all scouts and leaders. At the Pinewood Derby, races are held between all scouts who build a car from a kit to certain specifications. Each car is run down a track against another car, and scores are kept. In the end, cars are seated according to number of wins. Single elimination races are held until a winner is determined. The process is similar to the college basketball final 64 tournament or March Madness.
At first Elijah did really well in the races. He began by winning eight races in a row, though his car succumbed to mechanical problems in the end. Ultimately his car lost in the quarter finals. Though Dallin's car began slow, he won many races toward the end. Sadly, his car failed to make it past the first round.
Both Dallin and Elijah designed their cars, and Richard cut them out. The boys each then hollowed out the middle of their cars out and filled them with molten lead, in order to achieve the proper allowable weight. Once the cars were sanded and painted, wheels were added and adjusted. The cars were then ready to be weighed and checked in at the races. Gentlemen, start your engines!
Richard was among the three finish line judges, and one of two scorekeepers. According to him, many races had to be rerun, as they were too close to call. He says that at the Pinewood Derby, they are not blessed with replay technology, leaving all judges to their own faculties to call the winners. Richard enjoyed this job, and enjoyed the races. As a young scout himself he participated in the Pinewood Derby three years in a row as a racer. Each year he participated, he placed in the top three.
The pack leadership wanted each participant to receive a trophy of recognition for his hard work and preparation. Dallin and Elijah each received trophies: Dallin for "Most Fascinating"; Elijah for "Most Amazing". All three of my boys had a great time at the races. For the girls, there were snacks and tables to play and color at. For me it meant socializing and supervising the girls. All in all, it was a fun family activity.
No doubt we'll be there next year. Be there, or be square!
Love, Cara
At first Elijah did really well in the races. He began by winning eight races in a row, though his car succumbed to mechanical problems in the end. Ultimately his car lost in the quarter finals. Though Dallin's car began slow, he won many races toward the end. Sadly, his car failed to make it past the first round.
Both Dallin and Elijah designed their cars, and Richard cut them out. The boys each then hollowed out the middle of their cars out and filled them with molten lead, in order to achieve the proper allowable weight. Once the cars were sanded and painted, wheels were added and adjusted. The cars were then ready to be weighed and checked in at the races. Gentlemen, start your engines!
Richard was among the three finish line judges, and one of two scorekeepers. According to him, many races had to be rerun, as they were too close to call. He says that at the Pinewood Derby, they are not blessed with replay technology, leaving all judges to their own faculties to call the winners. Richard enjoyed this job, and enjoyed the races. As a young scout himself he participated in the Pinewood Derby three years in a row as a racer. Each year he participated, he placed in the top three.
The pack leadership wanted each participant to receive a trophy of recognition for his hard work and preparation. Dallin and Elijah each received trophies: Dallin for "Most Fascinating"; Elijah for "Most Amazing". All three of my boys had a great time at the races. For the girls, there were snacks and tables to play and color at. For me it meant socializing and supervising the girls. All in all, it was a fun family activity.
No doubt we'll be there next year. Be there, or be square!
Love, Cara
Friday, March 13, 2009
Wanted: A Cattle Prod
Someone get me a cattle prod so I can use it on my children! Seriously, must it take so long for them to perform their simple chores and personal hygiene routine? I'm just asking. And I'm thinking that a cattle prod would be an effective tool to a busy, multi-tasking mom like me, who must rely upon her children to not need constant reminders that time is slipping away and they best get the lead out of their behinds! Poke, poke! Get to work! Work now, play later! Timers aren't effective, neither are threats. Much to my chagrin, dangling rewards in front of their faces hasn't born fruit, either. What's an anal-retentive mom to do? (I like things done my way!)
Once Richard leaves for work each morning (about 5:30a.m.) I am on my own with four kids who must get ready for school and for the day. Meanwhile I have to take care of my own chores and personal grooming. Each morning while I shower, the old adage remains true: When the cat's away, the mice will play. Scratch that: it's true no matter what time it is in the morning or what I am doing. My kids are not stupid. Nope, in fact, they have figured out that our house offers many excellent hiding places. They have also figured out that Mom cannot be in two places at once. My kids also know for a fact that, given my current condition, I am not going to chase them through the house. Heck, lately I have a tendency to get winded just walking up a flight or two of stairs. And since I cannot see my feet, it is necessary for me to be extra cautious so as to not harm myself or my baby. A fall at this point in my pregnancy could be disastrous. My kids know this too, and thus are much quicker than I am.
Why can't my children remember to brush their teeth? Feed the dog? Put their dirty clothes in the hamper? Make their beds? Argh. Was I this helpless as a child? I must have been, and now I am paying for it. (Sorry, Mom and Dad! I get it!) Why is it that I must babysit my children every minute they are supposed to be doing their chores? And what's with the slow pace? It's reminiscent of molasses in January!
We are all up by 5:00a.m. and don't have to leave the house for school until 8:15a.m. each morning. Seems to me like enough time to get everything done, and be sure to leave the house with a full belly. At our house, the rule is that all chores and hair must done before you may sit at the kitchen table and partake of any food. Richard and I made this rule, foolishly thinking that hunger would be a powerful catalyst to get the work done and not waste time. Hah! At least half the time one or more of the kids runs out the door with a banana or a granola bar. Not ideal.
The question is, how do we solve this problem? I assure you, I have no idea. While I would like to figure it out before Aubrielle is born, I'm not counting on it. Once my baby is born I know that my mornings are going to be even crazier. The only way I'm going to get through that transition is with the help of my Heavenly Father, and I know I must ask for His help through prayer. I also know that prayer is the answer to all of my problems, concerns, frustrations, etc. Maybe I just need to be reminded from time to time.
I acknowledge that I am neither the first mom to experience parental angst, nor will I be the last. I also acknowledge that when my outlook is positive (ie: the glass is half-full) I am aware of how truly blessed I am to be the mother of four of the cutest kids ever. (Okay, so I am a little bit biased.) I also know that being a mom is simultaneously the most difficult and most rewarding job I will ever have in my life. (I could never have said that about my job at the tax and financial planning firm before I became a mom.)
I feel better now that I've vented a bit. I love my children--each and every one of them, challenges and all. Here's hoping I do my best by them, especially since that is what they deserve.
Love, Cara
Once Richard leaves for work each morning (about 5:30a.m.) I am on my own with four kids who must get ready for school and for the day. Meanwhile I have to take care of my own chores and personal grooming. Each morning while I shower, the old adage remains true: When the cat's away, the mice will play. Scratch that: it's true no matter what time it is in the morning or what I am doing. My kids are not stupid. Nope, in fact, they have figured out that our house offers many excellent hiding places. They have also figured out that Mom cannot be in two places at once. My kids also know for a fact that, given my current condition, I am not going to chase them through the house. Heck, lately I have a tendency to get winded just walking up a flight or two of stairs. And since I cannot see my feet, it is necessary for me to be extra cautious so as to not harm myself or my baby. A fall at this point in my pregnancy could be disastrous. My kids know this too, and thus are much quicker than I am.
Why can't my children remember to brush their teeth? Feed the dog? Put their dirty clothes in the hamper? Make their beds? Argh. Was I this helpless as a child? I must have been, and now I am paying for it. (Sorry, Mom and Dad! I get it!) Why is it that I must babysit my children every minute they are supposed to be doing their chores? And what's with the slow pace? It's reminiscent of molasses in January!
We are all up by 5:00a.m. and don't have to leave the house for school until 8:15a.m. each morning. Seems to me like enough time to get everything done, and be sure to leave the house with a full belly. At our house, the rule is that all chores and hair must done before you may sit at the kitchen table and partake of any food. Richard and I made this rule, foolishly thinking that hunger would be a powerful catalyst to get the work done and not waste time. Hah! At least half the time one or more of the kids runs out the door with a banana or a granola bar. Not ideal.
The question is, how do we solve this problem? I assure you, I have no idea. While I would like to figure it out before Aubrielle is born, I'm not counting on it. Once my baby is born I know that my mornings are going to be even crazier. The only way I'm going to get through that transition is with the help of my Heavenly Father, and I know I must ask for His help through prayer. I also know that prayer is the answer to all of my problems, concerns, frustrations, etc. Maybe I just need to be reminded from time to time.
I acknowledge that I am neither the first mom to experience parental angst, nor will I be the last. I also acknowledge that when my outlook is positive (ie: the glass is half-full) I am aware of how truly blessed I am to be the mother of four of the cutest kids ever. (Okay, so I am a little bit biased.) I also know that being a mom is simultaneously the most difficult and most rewarding job I will ever have in my life. (I could never have said that about my job at the tax and financial planning firm before I became a mom.)
I feel better now that I've vented a bit. I love my children--each and every one of them, challenges and all. Here's hoping I do my best by them, especially since that is what they deserve.
Love, Cara
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Pregnancy/baby update
Being that I am currently 32 weeks along in my pregnancy, I am now required to see my OB every couple weeks. I went today for a check-up (weight, blood pressure, pee in a cup, measure and palpate the belly, listen to the baby's heartbeat, etc.) which would have been ordinary except that Felicity refused to go to the sitter's. Kids have those times when they don't want you out of their sight or reach, and I accept that. It likely wouldn't have been a big deal to take her with me this morning except that Dr. Austin was running more than 90 minutes behind schedule. By the time my name was finally called to enter an exam room, Felicity had eaten all her snacks and we had read all of the books we'd brought along. She was bored, tired, and done quietly sitting still. Argh! Other than the delay, all went well with my appointment. My blood pressure is still perfect, my weight gain acceptable (to the doctor--not to me!) and I am measuring what I should, given how far along I am.
The funny thing about taking a 3-year old to the doctor is that they don't always understand that the appointment is not for them. Poor Felicity has endured more than her share of doctors, nurses, and tests, and was understandably hesitant to even enter the building. Though I did my best to assure her that only Mommy would have to sit on the exam table and be touched, she freaked out when Dr. Austin entered the room and refused to look at him or answer his questions.
Another funny thing about taking a 3-year old to the doctor is that she wants to be attached to your hip, go where you go, and do what you do. This includes the all-important ritual of peeing in a cup. Yep, you guessed it; she had to do that, too. Both times we went potty. Whatever makes her happy, right?
This week the crib and changing table we ordered for Aubrielle came in. Richard spent Monday evening assembling both pieces of furniture (he loved every minute of it) and when I woke up this morning, it was all done. He'd even put the crib bedding set in the crib so we could get the big picture of how the room is coming together. So cute! Since we decided to make the guest room next to the master Aubrielle's room (which was already painted a lovely lilac color) consequently Aubrielle's signature color is going to be lilac. So pretty. Her bedding set has many shades of lilac and purple and today Richard found an adorable lamp to match the room. All this preparation for the baby is making it more real and not seem so far off.
This pregnancy is #7 for me (I've had 2 miscarriages). Never have I had so much love and support from my friends and neighbors as I have this time around. To all of you who have been generous with your time, support and hand-me-downs, I thank you. To all of you who have taken the time to check on me, inquire as to how we are doing, I thank you. And to all of those who have rubbed my belly for good luck or to feel Aubrielle move, I also thank you. I didn't have any of that during my other pregnancies in California. I am convinced that the people here in Colorado are simply more kind and courteous.
Not having any family here in the state to rely upon has made the relationships I have here in Colorado (particularly right here in my own neighborhood) that much more important and necessary to me. Love to all my peeps!
Love, Cara
The funny thing about taking a 3-year old to the doctor is that they don't always understand that the appointment is not for them. Poor Felicity has endured more than her share of doctors, nurses, and tests, and was understandably hesitant to even enter the building. Though I did my best to assure her that only Mommy would have to sit on the exam table and be touched, she freaked out when Dr. Austin entered the room and refused to look at him or answer his questions.
Another funny thing about taking a 3-year old to the doctor is that she wants to be attached to your hip, go where you go, and do what you do. This includes the all-important ritual of peeing in a cup. Yep, you guessed it; she had to do that, too. Both times we went potty. Whatever makes her happy, right?
This week the crib and changing table we ordered for Aubrielle came in. Richard spent Monday evening assembling both pieces of furniture (he loved every minute of it) and when I woke up this morning, it was all done. He'd even put the crib bedding set in the crib so we could get the big picture of how the room is coming together. So cute! Since we decided to make the guest room next to the master Aubrielle's room (which was already painted a lovely lilac color) consequently Aubrielle's signature color is going to be lilac. So pretty. Her bedding set has many shades of lilac and purple and today Richard found an adorable lamp to match the room. All this preparation for the baby is making it more real and not seem so far off.
This pregnancy is #7 for me (I've had 2 miscarriages). Never have I had so much love and support from my friends and neighbors as I have this time around. To all of you who have been generous with your time, support and hand-me-downs, I thank you. To all of you who have taken the time to check on me, inquire as to how we are doing, I thank you. And to all of those who have rubbed my belly for good luck or to feel Aubrielle move, I also thank you. I didn't have any of that during my other pregnancies in California. I am convinced that the people here in Colorado are simply more kind and courteous.
Not having any family here in the state to rely upon has made the relationships I have here in Colorado (particularly right here in my own neighborhood) that much more important and necessary to me. Love to all my peeps!
Love, Cara
Sunday, March 8, 2009
I love Sunday afternoons--I hate Mondays
I love Sunday afternoons. Once we are home from church and Felicity is down for a nap, the rest of us enjoy lunch together, after which there are many activities to chose from. Generally I take advantage of the opportunity to nap right along with Felicity (I LOVE MY BED AND PILLOW). However, when I can stay awake and discipline myself, I realize that this is truly the best time for blogging and journal writing. I have been keeping a pregnancy journal since I learned I was expecting Aubrielle--something I haven't done in 11 years when pregnant with Dallin. It has been so helpful to record the changes, aches and pains, and the joys of expecting another baby.
Now blogging is another story altogether, as it will eventually make up a family history for my children to go back and read someday. I am thoughtful and considerate as to what I blog, knowing that it is not just something for my girlfriends to read. I only hope that my children will appreciate it when the time comes for them to look back on their childhood. Oh, how I wish that I had a journal or family history to read. I have no doubt that it would be helpful to me now, as I blindly navigate the obstacles and traffic jams of life that lay before me.
I love to bake on Sunday afternoons. Sure, I also love to bake during the week, but on Sundays Richard is home and gladly steps in as sous chef. It's great to have a sous chef: "Honey, I'm done at this counter. Would you please clean it up?" Or, "I need 3 eggs beaten, please." "How does this taste?" Why, you may wonder, is he so willing to be my sous chef? Because he knows that I bake for him. He also knows that inevitably the next day he'll be able to take what's left to work to share. He likes that part. Today, however, is different. As I have been typing this blog, Richard has been in the kitchen baking--what else?--chocolate chip cookies. And he just brought me a warm one. Fantastic!
Sunday afternoons also involve phone calls to family members, homework for Richard and the boys, and Scout requirements. The homework part I could certainly do without, but the phone calls to family members are worth the time involved, especially given the fact that we don't have any close relatives here in the state of Colorado.
With all of the options available to us for Sabbath day activities, you'd think I would look forward to Sundays more. But I don't. Sometimes getting all 6 of us out the door to church on time is a royal pain in the neck: the kids are slow at their chores and Richard and I would love nothing more than to sleep in! Okay, so you could argue that on Sunday mornings we do get to sleep in till 6:15a.m., as opposed to 5:00a.m. on school days. Even on Saturday mornings we are up and about early in the morning to strip beds, run 8 loads of laundry, scrub house, go grocery shopping, take Dallin to Scouts at the church 25 minutes away, and every third Saturday cut 3 heads of hair. And that's just in the cold months of the year. When spring and summer are in bloom we add to all that lawn work, car washing/vacuuming, garage cleaning/organization, and family bike rides, park trips, and barbeques. Whew! Is it any wonder why we are so exhausted on Sundays? Hence why I love Sunday afternoons for the downtime.
One more thing--and I know I'm not alone when I say this... I hate Mondays!!! Since we as a family do our best to observe the Sabbath Day, Monday comes likes a rude awakening. Not being able to wipe down bathrooms, dust, do laundry, mop the kitchen floor, or vacuum for 24 hours means that each daily chore takes that much longer than it does during the week. I know you know what I'm talking about! And inevitably my every Monday begins with someone having wet the bed, necessitating an additional load of laundry on top of everything we accumulated from Sunday. And let's not forget that Monday means getting up at 5:00a.m. again for the next 5 days!
I am so grateful, though, to my Heavenly Father for the blessings we receive as a family through obedience to the commandments, namely keeping the Sabbath Day holy. I have no doubt that He helps us during the other 6 days of the week, merely for observing His one. I am grateful for a husband who works hard (2 to 3 jobs at a time) to provide well for our family and to enable me to be a full-time mom. I am grateful for each of my children, and even for the challenges they bring to my life. I am grateful to be a mom. It's what I always aspired to be. I hope and pray that Heavenly Father will continue to guide and direct me in this journey called life. Props to my girlfriends who are also striving to find joy in the journey. You are my peeps!
Love, Cara
Now blogging is another story altogether, as it will eventually make up a family history for my children to go back and read someday. I am thoughtful and considerate as to what I blog, knowing that it is not just something for my girlfriends to read. I only hope that my children will appreciate it when the time comes for them to look back on their childhood. Oh, how I wish that I had a journal or family history to read. I have no doubt that it would be helpful to me now, as I blindly navigate the obstacles and traffic jams of life that lay before me.
I love to bake on Sunday afternoons. Sure, I also love to bake during the week, but on Sundays Richard is home and gladly steps in as sous chef. It's great to have a sous chef: "Honey, I'm done at this counter. Would you please clean it up?" Or, "I need 3 eggs beaten, please." "How does this taste?" Why, you may wonder, is he so willing to be my sous chef? Because he knows that I bake for him. He also knows that inevitably the next day he'll be able to take what's left to work to share. He likes that part. Today, however, is different. As I have been typing this blog, Richard has been in the kitchen baking--what else?--chocolate chip cookies. And he just brought me a warm one. Fantastic!
Sunday afternoons also involve phone calls to family members, homework for Richard and the boys, and Scout requirements. The homework part I could certainly do without, but the phone calls to family members are worth the time involved, especially given the fact that we don't have any close relatives here in the state of Colorado.
With all of the options available to us for Sabbath day activities, you'd think I would look forward to Sundays more. But I don't. Sometimes getting all 6 of us out the door to church on time is a royal pain in the neck: the kids are slow at their chores and Richard and I would love nothing more than to sleep in! Okay, so you could argue that on Sunday mornings we do get to sleep in till 6:15a.m., as opposed to 5:00a.m. on school days. Even on Saturday mornings we are up and about early in the morning to strip beds, run 8 loads of laundry, scrub house, go grocery shopping, take Dallin to Scouts at the church 25 minutes away, and every third Saturday cut 3 heads of hair. And that's just in the cold months of the year. When spring and summer are in bloom we add to all that lawn work, car washing/vacuuming, garage cleaning/organization, and family bike rides, park trips, and barbeques. Whew! Is it any wonder why we are so exhausted on Sundays? Hence why I love Sunday afternoons for the downtime.
One more thing--and I know I'm not alone when I say this... I hate Mondays!!! Since we as a family do our best to observe the Sabbath Day, Monday comes likes a rude awakening. Not being able to wipe down bathrooms, dust, do laundry, mop the kitchen floor, or vacuum for 24 hours means that each daily chore takes that much longer than it does during the week. I know you know what I'm talking about! And inevitably my every Monday begins with someone having wet the bed, necessitating an additional load of laundry on top of everything we accumulated from Sunday. And let's not forget that Monday means getting up at 5:00a.m. again for the next 5 days!
I am so grateful, though, to my Heavenly Father for the blessings we receive as a family through obedience to the commandments, namely keeping the Sabbath Day holy. I have no doubt that He helps us during the other 6 days of the week, merely for observing His one. I am grateful for a husband who works hard (2 to 3 jobs at a time) to provide well for our family and to enable me to be a full-time mom. I am grateful for each of my children, and even for the challenges they bring to my life. I am grateful to be a mom. It's what I always aspired to be. I hope and pray that Heavenly Father will continue to guide and direct me in this journey called life. Props to my girlfriends who are also striving to find joy in the journey. You are my peeps!
Love, Cara
Friday, March 6, 2009
I'm a party pooper...
It's been a while for me, but I actually got asked out on a date tonight. Nothing fancy, just dinner out with my husband, without any children (unless of course you count the baby currently making herself comfortable in my body). The following is a list of reasons why I love to eat dinner at a restaurant without the company of my many children:
1) I'll only have to worry about cutting my own food. In fact, if I ask my husband, he'll even cut my food for me!
2) I won't have to take anyone else to the bathroom other than myself.
3) Unless Richard gets really rowdy, I won't have to remind anyone to behave himself in public.
4) There won't be anyone to beg off my plate of food.
5) If I don't feel like sharing, I won't have to.
6) Should I feel like lingering over my meal, the option is available to me.
7) I can look forward to being the servee, instead of the server.
8) Should I not finish my food, a kind waiter will package it up for me.
9) Any mess possibly made will be cleaned up by someone other than myself.
10) Lastly, if there is anything wrong with my meal, I will be asking the manager to please take it off the bill, thank you very much.
The best part of being asked on the coming date is that Richard actually flirted with me as he asked, telling me he thought I was cute and that he was interested in me. Hmm... Although I did tell him I reciprocated his feelings, I did have to be honest and let him know that I have four children and am expecting my fifth. Alas, he was not discouraged. He still likes me! He still wants to date me! Cool, eh?
Perhaps as you are reading this post you are wondering what on earth the title has to do with it... Well, this morning I got a text from Richard saying once again how excited he was to take me out, after which he begged me to take a nap sometime today so I would last longer than just dinner tonight. So apparently I am a party pooper. Gimme some slack. Afterall, I am very pregnant and very tired all the time. But yes, I will do my best to get a nap today so I can stay up past 8p.m. tonight. Olive Garden, here I come!
Love, Cara
1) I'll only have to worry about cutting my own food. In fact, if I ask my husband, he'll even cut my food for me!
2) I won't have to take anyone else to the bathroom other than myself.
3) Unless Richard gets really rowdy, I won't have to remind anyone to behave himself in public.
4) There won't be anyone to beg off my plate of food.
5) If I don't feel like sharing, I won't have to.
6) Should I feel like lingering over my meal, the option is available to me.
7) I can look forward to being the servee, instead of the server.
8) Should I not finish my food, a kind waiter will package it up for me.
9) Any mess possibly made will be cleaned up by someone other than myself.
10) Lastly, if there is anything wrong with my meal, I will be asking the manager to please take it off the bill, thank you very much.
The best part of being asked on the coming date is that Richard actually flirted with me as he asked, telling me he thought I was cute and that he was interested in me. Hmm... Although I did tell him I reciprocated his feelings, I did have to be honest and let him know that I have four children and am expecting my fifth. Alas, he was not discouraged. He still likes me! He still wants to date me! Cool, eh?
Perhaps as you are reading this post you are wondering what on earth the title has to do with it... Well, this morning I got a text from Richard saying once again how excited he was to take me out, after which he begged me to take a nap sometime today so I would last longer than just dinner tonight. So apparently I am a party pooper. Gimme some slack. Afterall, I am very pregnant and very tired all the time. But yes, I will do my best to get a nap today so I can stay up past 8p.m. tonight. Olive Garden, here I come!
Love, Cara
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Reality TV Junkie--Just For Fun
Alright, I'll admit that I am a reality TV junkie. In fact, I keep up with so many reality shows that many a night all three of my TiVos, (DVRs), are concurrently employed. My best friend Tera is also a reality show junkie, and having that in common along with everything else, means that we never run out of things to talk about.
You may ask, with so many reality shows available to choose from, do I have a favorite? That's hard to say; they're all smut. Take for example, "The Bachelor". How many seasons have aired to date? More than a dozen, I am sure. And how many seasons have had happy endings? Just one, really, but it doesn't mean I'll stop watching any time soon. How about "Survivor"? Season 17 (I think it's season 17--maybe a die-hard fan is reading this and will write in to inform me I'm wrong) is now airing. Little has changed in the game over the years; it's a whole lotta been there, done that, but I'm a loyal fan who cannot let go. "The Biggest Loser". Need I say more? It's fabulous. I just love it. I find myself cheering on my favorite contestants, and when they do well I am just as happy as they are. I have even been known to cry along with them. These people are changing their lives through hard work and dedication. What could be better than that?
Of course I love all reality shows centered on cooking, too. "Top Chef", "Hell's Kitchen", "Kitchen Nightmares"... That Gordon Ramsey has the potty mouth. I so get a kick out of him. But it's when I watch these shows that I realize how simplistic my cooking style is--and that's okay! I don't know anyone personally that has things like crawfish or obscure spices in their kitchen.
Lastly, who could forget the pop culture juggernaut that is "American Idol"? Who doesn't love Simon Cowell and the nasty comments he gives the wannabe superstars? Who doesn't love his arrogance? What's not to love about Randy Jackson? And how much fun is it to laugh at the ridiculous things Paula Abdul says? Of course there is the music and the hopes that amongst the wannabes is a future grammy-winning recording artist (I love you, Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood! I voted for you!).
Before I had DVRs in my house, I had been known to plan my life around my reality shows. Thank goodness I don't have to do that anymore. Nonetheless, each week I look forward to when they will air and record on my DVRs, watching them shortly thereafter so I can zip through the commercial breaks.
For those of you who are wondering if I have a life, yes, I do. In fact my life is terribly busy, though often mundane and routine (ie: "Groundhog Day" anyone?). So besides reading, reality shows are my escape (not that reality shows are a great representation of reality). So sue me! I am proud to be amongst the loyal viewers who keep the networks from cancelling all that smut.
Later! Cara
P.S. If you find this post simply the silliest and most ridiculous thing ever, consider the source is an exhausted, overworked pregnant woman. Hee, hee!
You may ask, with so many reality shows available to choose from, do I have a favorite? That's hard to say; they're all smut. Take for example, "The Bachelor". How many seasons have aired to date? More than a dozen, I am sure. And how many seasons have had happy endings? Just one, really, but it doesn't mean I'll stop watching any time soon. How about "Survivor"? Season 17 (I think it's season 17--maybe a die-hard fan is reading this and will write in to inform me I'm wrong) is now airing. Little has changed in the game over the years; it's a whole lotta been there, done that, but I'm a loyal fan who cannot let go. "The Biggest Loser". Need I say more? It's fabulous. I just love it. I find myself cheering on my favorite contestants, and when they do well I am just as happy as they are. I have even been known to cry along with them. These people are changing their lives through hard work and dedication. What could be better than that?
Of course I love all reality shows centered on cooking, too. "Top Chef", "Hell's Kitchen", "Kitchen Nightmares"... That Gordon Ramsey has the potty mouth. I so get a kick out of him. But it's when I watch these shows that I realize how simplistic my cooking style is--and that's okay! I don't know anyone personally that has things like crawfish or obscure spices in their kitchen.
Lastly, who could forget the pop culture juggernaut that is "American Idol"? Who doesn't love Simon Cowell and the nasty comments he gives the wannabe superstars? Who doesn't love his arrogance? What's not to love about Randy Jackson? And how much fun is it to laugh at the ridiculous things Paula Abdul says? Of course there is the music and the hopes that amongst the wannabes is a future grammy-winning recording artist (I love you, Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood! I voted for you!).
Before I had DVRs in my house, I had been known to plan my life around my reality shows. Thank goodness I don't have to do that anymore. Nonetheless, each week I look forward to when they will air and record on my DVRs, watching them shortly thereafter so I can zip through the commercial breaks.
For those of you who are wondering if I have a life, yes, I do. In fact my life is terribly busy, though often mundane and routine (ie: "Groundhog Day" anyone?). So besides reading, reality shows are my escape (not that reality shows are a great representation of reality). So sue me! I am proud to be amongst the loyal viewers who keep the networks from cancelling all that smut.
Later! Cara
P.S. If you find this post simply the silliest and most ridiculous thing ever, consider the source is an exhausted, overworked pregnant woman. Hee, hee!
I love Felicity
I love Felicity. Thank goodness for her and all she has added to my life. On good days and bad, she makes me laugh and smile and she is the first one to offer hugs and kisses. And she knows just when I need them, too! A few weeks ago I blew my top and subsequently burst into tears. She looked at me and said, "Mommy, you're sad. I'll go get you a tissue." She then proceeded to hug and kiss me on the belly (that's where she could reach). Hopefully she is the way she is because I have been that loving and tender with her all her life; I'd like to think I have been.
From the day she was born, I knew that she would forever change my life for the better, though the addition she made to our family did not come without it's challenges. At about six months old she began to vomit frequently, resulting consequently in a dramatic weight loss. Our family was just getting settled in Colorado after uprooting our life in California at the time. Months later we found a great pediatrician who diagnosed and treated Felicity's acid reflux which hung on past her first birthday, at which time she began physical therapy because of developmental delays.
All went well until her second birthday in February 2008 when she once again struggled with frequent diarrhea and vomiting. By March 2008 she was admitted to the hospital, severely dehydrated. Felicity underwent many invasive tests during her stay but the only thing she was diagnosed with was severe food allergies. How grateful I was at the time to still be breastfeeding her! When discharged from the hospital, Felicity and I were put on a strict diet (fish, meats, rice, and fruits and vegetables). It was the hardest thing I've ever done, but I'd do it again for her if I needed to. I love that little girl so much.
Fast forward one year. In the past few weeks Felicity has seen her pediatrician, her allergist, had blood work and a sweat test done. The blood work shows that her allergies have become less severe in the past year, but since her birthday last month we have had to also eliminate wheat and gluten from her diet which already excludes all dairy and egg products. Most of the time I admit that the change has been easier for her than it has been for the rest of the family; we are sad for her when she is unable to enjoy the foods we so quickly take for granted. Currently we are waiting for the results of her sweat test and considering the allergist's recommendation of a milk challenge, knowing that allergies may not even be the biggest concern with Felicity; the allergist at National Jewish has recommended we take her to a pediatric G.I.
Anyone who has raised a child that has spent as much of his or her life sick as much as healthy would surely understand the strength of the bond I feel with Felicity. Again I say that I would do it again, if the Lord asked it of me. I pray that Aubrielle doesn't have to suffer the same fate as her big sister Felicity, but if she does I am surely prepared and educated enough to handle it.
Enough about the challenges I have faced in raising my Felicity. Here are just a few reasons why I love her so much:
1) She makes me laugh
2) She is openly affectionate
3) She eats like a champ
4) She loves her family
5) For 2.5 years she was a great nurser
6) At 3 years old, she still naps
7) She sings and dances and loves music
8) She is Elijah's disciple
9) She loves to be outside
10) She sleeps through the night
11) She's so smart
12) She can sit on my lap for hours while I read to her
13) She's learning to use the potty
14) Just like her mom, she enjoys talking on the phone
15) She loves to pray
16) She speaks well and has great manners for a 3 year old
17) She adores her daddy
18) She's excited about the new baby coming
19) Everyday she looks forward to when her siblings will return from school
20) She loves her Heavenly Father
21) She always eats her fruits and veggies and drinks her yummy (not!) rice milk
I could go on and on. Alas, the baby and I are hungry so I must bid you all farewell.
Love, Cara (proud mom to Felicity)
From the day she was born, I knew that she would forever change my life for the better, though the addition she made to our family did not come without it's challenges. At about six months old she began to vomit frequently, resulting consequently in a dramatic weight loss. Our family was just getting settled in Colorado after uprooting our life in California at the time. Months later we found a great pediatrician who diagnosed and treated Felicity's acid reflux which hung on past her first birthday, at which time she began physical therapy because of developmental delays.
All went well until her second birthday in February 2008 when she once again struggled with frequent diarrhea and vomiting. By March 2008 she was admitted to the hospital, severely dehydrated. Felicity underwent many invasive tests during her stay but the only thing she was diagnosed with was severe food allergies. How grateful I was at the time to still be breastfeeding her! When discharged from the hospital, Felicity and I were put on a strict diet (fish, meats, rice, and fruits and vegetables). It was the hardest thing I've ever done, but I'd do it again for her if I needed to. I love that little girl so much.
Fast forward one year. In the past few weeks Felicity has seen her pediatrician, her allergist, had blood work and a sweat test done. The blood work shows that her allergies have become less severe in the past year, but since her birthday last month we have had to also eliminate wheat and gluten from her diet which already excludes all dairy and egg products. Most of the time I admit that the change has been easier for her than it has been for the rest of the family; we are sad for her when she is unable to enjoy the foods we so quickly take for granted. Currently we are waiting for the results of her sweat test and considering the allergist's recommendation of a milk challenge, knowing that allergies may not even be the biggest concern with Felicity; the allergist at National Jewish has recommended we take her to a pediatric G.I.
Anyone who has raised a child that has spent as much of his or her life sick as much as healthy would surely understand the strength of the bond I feel with Felicity. Again I say that I would do it again, if the Lord asked it of me. I pray that Aubrielle doesn't have to suffer the same fate as her big sister Felicity, but if she does I am surely prepared and educated enough to handle it.
Enough about the challenges I have faced in raising my Felicity. Here are just a few reasons why I love her so much:
1) She makes me laugh
2) She is openly affectionate
3) She eats like a champ
4) She loves her family
5) For 2.5 years she was a great nurser
6) At 3 years old, she still naps
7) She sings and dances and loves music
8) She is Elijah's disciple
9) She loves to be outside
10) She sleeps through the night
11) She's so smart
12) She can sit on my lap for hours while I read to her
13) She's learning to use the potty
14) Just like her mom, she enjoys talking on the phone
15) She loves to pray
16) She speaks well and has great manners for a 3 year old
17) She adores her daddy
18) She's excited about the new baby coming
19) Everyday she looks forward to when her siblings will return from school
20) She loves her Heavenly Father
21) She always eats her fruits and veggies and drinks her yummy (not!) rice milk
I could go on and on. Alas, the baby and I are hungry so I must bid you all farewell.
Love, Cara (proud mom to Felicity)
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
A late start, a new beginning
Today I can honestly say that I've come darned close to a 7th Heaven. Although the day began badly, once I got my boys off to school I was able to breathe more deeply. Mimi was home from school (no kindergarten today) which made Felicity happy, and once the girls were fed, they ran to the basement to make a mess. With the boys gone and the girls occupied, I was able to get all my morning work done and that always makes me happy. I need that feeling of accomplishment and I can't sit down to eat till it's all done. Once that was checked off my list (I do love to make lists, if for no other reason than to cross items off said lists) I was afforded a hot breakfast in solitude. No way! That never happens! While I had been doing my morning work, my best friend Tera called to invite the girls and me over to play and visit. Fantastic! We had a place to go and friends to be with! Once I had eaten as much as the baby allowed room, the girls and I headed all the way to Tera's house (across the street and through the park). And did I mention that the weather was mild enough for short-sleeved shirts, giving no need for coats? Even better. The girls and I were able to stay at Tera's most of the day, namely because all of our children played so well together. Hang on...I need to wipe the tears from my eyes... Okay. I'm alright, but for a moment there I was all choked up. Thank the Lord for small blessings, right?
So now it's a little after 4:30pm and I am typing my first blog while my boys do their homework and my girls play and hover around me. But there is peace on earth at the moment, all is copacetic, the planets have aligned, you take your pick. Ah, yes, I know it won't last so right now I am soaking it up.
Get out of town! My husband just walked in, home from work an hour earlier than planned. This day just keeps getting better! Tomorrow's sure to suck. Tonight's sure to be bad, too. Undoubtedly the baby and my bladder won't allow me to sleep much...or the insomnia, or the night terrors, or the migraines, etc. Oh, I can't wait to not be pregnant anymore. Get her out! Lest I forget that the end is near (8 weeks from Friday) and that this is my last go around. I ought to relish it--these last weeks--but I don't. I'm so done. Sweet Aubrielle, I can't wait to meet you. May 1, 2009 cannot come quickly enough. You will make our family complete, thus giving us a true 7th Heaven.
Love, Cara (Richard, Dallin, Elijah, Amelia, Felicity & coming soon, Aubrielle)
So now it's a little after 4:30pm and I am typing my first blog while my boys do their homework and my girls play and hover around me. But there is peace on earth at the moment, all is copacetic, the planets have aligned, you take your pick. Ah, yes, I know it won't last so right now I am soaking it up.
Get out of town! My husband just walked in, home from work an hour earlier than planned. This day just keeps getting better! Tomorrow's sure to suck. Tonight's sure to be bad, too. Undoubtedly the baby and my bladder won't allow me to sleep much...or the insomnia, or the night terrors, or the migraines, etc. Oh, I can't wait to not be pregnant anymore. Get her out! Lest I forget that the end is near (8 weeks from Friday) and that this is my last go around. I ought to relish it--these last weeks--but I don't. I'm so done. Sweet Aubrielle, I can't wait to meet you. May 1, 2009 cannot come quickly enough. You will make our family complete, thus giving us a true 7th Heaven.
Love, Cara (Richard, Dallin, Elijah, Amelia, Felicity & coming soon, Aubrielle)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
