We picked Ruben up from the vet yesterday around 5p.m. He looks like frankendog, which is what they said he would look like. Both of his front legs are shaved, he is shaved from the top of his head to about 1/3 of the way down his back and around his entire neck. He has two drain tubes, one on either side of his neck and several stitches where the original injury, which is now the incision area, was. The vet found several more injuries upon further inspection. Bite marks on his paws and around his whole neck, bad bruising on one side of his neck/head, etc. The paws are because Ruben uses his paws like hands, and was likely trying to use them to defend himself. The bruising is from the dog bashing his head into the ground. Lovely.
They sent us home with antibiotics (10 days worth), pain meds and a collar (cone) just in case. We haven't needed the collar. He isn't eating much, but he's a night eater, so I am hoping that will change tonight. Last night he got chicken noodle soup, but I don't want him to think he will be getting that for the rest of his life!
Luckily he's not draining much at all so we are going back Friday to have the tubes removed. We have to go back toward the end of next week to get the stitches out.
He is pretty shaken up. He just wants to be held or lay around mostly, although he can be quite perky when he wants to be. We are staying at mom's today because we have a showing at the house so I have to walk him. He walks VERY fast which is not his normal pace. I sure he just wants to make sure he stays away from predators. Who wouldn't feel that way?
I'm sure his pride is wounded.
Brian was very upset to see Ruben all "fixed up" and really hasn't gone near him. The vet assistant talked to Brian about how he couldn't touch Ruben while he is healing because he could hurt him very badly. Brian either got it, or is just terrified of how the dog looks. Either way, it's made things easier on me.
Speaking of Brian, he had his hearing test today. He actually cooperated a little bit more today, which is good. I did not sit in the booth with him for the first time. It was my idea, but I was a nervous wreck not knowing what was going on. Basically his sound field test looked mostly the same as the last "good" test from last April. His bone conduction looked better. This probably means that his new tubes are doing an excellent job of keeping the fluid away. Yay!
They will retest in 6 months and see if he can be even more cooperative next time. One complication is that Brian has it in his head that he's supposed to open his mouth wide and say, "ahhhhhh" every time someone goes to examine any part of his face or head. I am thinking this may be a side effect from the dentist visit a few weeks ago. While really cute, it's definitely not a behavior that works well during a hearing test.
They wanted to schedule an ABR which requires sedation. The ENT had talked about waiting on this because he was so recently sedated (for tubes and adenoids) and I tend to agree. The ABR is not the best test-the booth is, so I would really rather avoid it if possible. We will just have to see how he does in 6 months and then decide.
We will also be visiting the developmental pediatrician (Dr. Wiley from 2 years ago) in August just to make sure we are on the right track with speech and that she doesn't see any other issues that need solving. It's just a part of the process at Children's. They always want to check from every angle-for which I am grateful!
So that's where we are with things. Ruben is healing. Brian's hearing is stable. I am still kind of a wreck about what happened to Ruben, but I will be okay.
Thanks for all of the emails and calls to check on Ru! And for weighing in on whether or not we should report the dog. Most people think we should report it, but wait until the bills are paid! I tend to agree.
Oh and we are just about done with doctors this week. I have to get a cavity filled tomorrow. Hopefully that will be uneventful!!
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
The One Where Ruben Is Viciously Attacked
Yesterday was a day for the books. It rates as one of the hardest days I have had in a long, long time.
The morning started with a visit to the OB. That was fine-thank goodness! My BP is fine, weight fine, her heart rate was good and I am measuring right on track.
At 1 we headed to Dr. Price's office for Brian's 3 year old well check. Brian was amazingly good. He stepped right up on the scale which he has NEVER done before. He weighed in at 38 pounds-94th percentile. He is height was a little trickier. He didn't understand why he had to put his feet up against the wall along with the rest of his body. Nurse Kim decided to measure him laying down and he measured 41.5 inches-99th percentile! Dr. Price thinks he'll be 6'2" or 6'3" as an adult.
After some confusion over his records, Brian was given a Hep B vaccination (this is where the day went sour). Upon arriving home and entering his stats in the baby book, I realized he had been given a 4th Hep B vaccination. They are only supposed to get 3. I called immediately and spoke with the nurse who was pretty sure it would not be harmful to him, but wanted to check with the doctor. I consulted the internet and text my Aunt Sarah (also a pedi). Google didn't find any ill effect and later Sarah assured me he would be okay as well. Whew!
At about 5 we decided to take Ruben on a walk. Brian likes to stroll the neighborhood and hold the leash while walking at a Brian pace (really slow). We were enjoying our walk...I was enjoying listening to Brian's speech-"Come on Ru, Ru!" "Sidewalk, Mama." I really just wanted to take a freaking walk with my dog and my kid.
Anyway, as you know from the title, things went down hill fast. As we turned the corner around the block I noticed a lady knocking on the front door of one of the neighbor's houses. I heard dogs barking inside and out of instinct I took the leash from Brian-afraid Ruben would bolt toward the dogs and Brian would be pulled over.
Never could I have imagined what actually happened.
A big dog (I recalled it as white, but have since been corrected-it was a brown boxer) ran out of the house, straight toward Ruben and before I could do anything had Ruben in the air by the nape of his neck. The owner ran out of the house and jumped on his dog, trying madly to pull the dog off of Ru. Brian was standing there in complete shock and horror while I pulled on the leash trying madly to help Ruben get free. The whole time I was screaming like a madwoman drawing 6-7 neighbors out of their homes to see what was going on. The dog just kept flinging Ruben into the air, Ruben was yelping, I was yelling major profanities at the owner and the dog-I really thought the dog was going to kill Ruben. I have never seen anything more violent in person in my life.
At some point the dog finally let go, the owner swept him into the house and we were able to get a hold of Ruben and check him. He had a pretty large puncture wound on his neck, but otherwise seemed okay. Of course somewhere in all of this our doctor called back to say Brian was not going to get Hep B. Are you kidding me?
Shawn had forgotten his phones, so I tried to call the work line with no luck. I called Mom and she flew over to my rescue. A neighbor got me the number for our vet, an ice pack for my fingers (have some pretty bad rope burn from the leash), and a bowl of water for Ruben. I called the vet and luckily our good friend Kate answered the phone. She said to bring him right in.
Somewhere in there I did get Shawn and he ended up meeting us at the vet. It turns out all of the skin on Ruben's neck was ripped away from the tendons, so he had to have surgery this morning. We left him at the vet last night, afraid that Brian would torture him here. The surgery involves 1, maybe two drain tubes that he will wear for 3-7 days. They will drain out onto the floor, so unfortunately he will be confined to the kitchen while he is wearing them. They also had to shave him from his ears to half way down his back. I just called for a status update and he is doing fine post surgery. I am sure the vet will elaborate on this when we pick up Ruben at 5.
The dog owner gave Mom his name, number and address last night, so I will be passing that along to the vet so he can cover Ruben's bills. We are still trying to decide whether or not to report the dog. What would you do?
Tell you what if it weren't for our beach vacation and the excitement of Lilah, this summer would really stink. Between the stupid health department banning our pool time and not being able to take a walk in my own damn neighborhood, I am kind of over it!
The good in all of this is that Brian stayed put. He didn't run away or into the street which would have made things much worse. I feel terrible that I couldn't protect him from seeing what he saw, but I am hoping that he is young enough that he won't remember. Also, I'm pretty much okay aside from emotional wounds and the rope burn, and Lilah is also okay. Ruben will be okay after some healing. Our neighbors came pouring out last night to check on us. The whole neighborhood knows what happened and they are all concerned. It's nice to have people who live nearby and have your back!
Please say a prayer for Ruben (if you pray for dogs!). I am sure he's going to have some pain and with the 4th coming up, he's going to be even more agitated now that he'll have healing to deal with on top of fireworks. Also, please pray that I can keep Brian a safe distance away from him! Thanks!
The morning started with a visit to the OB. That was fine-thank goodness! My BP is fine, weight fine, her heart rate was good and I am measuring right on track.
At 1 we headed to Dr. Price's office for Brian's 3 year old well check. Brian was amazingly good. He stepped right up on the scale which he has NEVER done before. He weighed in at 38 pounds-94th percentile. He is height was a little trickier. He didn't understand why he had to put his feet up against the wall along with the rest of his body. Nurse Kim decided to measure him laying down and he measured 41.5 inches-99th percentile! Dr. Price thinks he'll be 6'2" or 6'3" as an adult.
After some confusion over his records, Brian was given a Hep B vaccination (this is where the day went sour). Upon arriving home and entering his stats in the baby book, I realized he had been given a 4th Hep B vaccination. They are only supposed to get 3. I called immediately and spoke with the nurse who was pretty sure it would not be harmful to him, but wanted to check with the doctor. I consulted the internet and text my Aunt Sarah (also a pedi). Google didn't find any ill effect and later Sarah assured me he would be okay as well. Whew!
At about 5 we decided to take Ruben on a walk. Brian likes to stroll the neighborhood and hold the leash while walking at a Brian pace (really slow). We were enjoying our walk...I was enjoying listening to Brian's speech-"Come on Ru, Ru!" "Sidewalk, Mama." I really just wanted to take a freaking walk with my dog and my kid.
Anyway, as you know from the title, things went down hill fast. As we turned the corner around the block I noticed a lady knocking on the front door of one of the neighbor's houses. I heard dogs barking inside and out of instinct I took the leash from Brian-afraid Ruben would bolt toward the dogs and Brian would be pulled over.
Never could I have imagined what actually happened.
A big dog (I recalled it as white, but have since been corrected-it was a brown boxer) ran out of the house, straight toward Ruben and before I could do anything had Ruben in the air by the nape of his neck. The owner ran out of the house and jumped on his dog, trying madly to pull the dog off of Ru. Brian was standing there in complete shock and horror while I pulled on the leash trying madly to help Ruben get free. The whole time I was screaming like a madwoman drawing 6-7 neighbors out of their homes to see what was going on. The dog just kept flinging Ruben into the air, Ruben was yelping, I was yelling major profanities at the owner and the dog-I really thought the dog was going to kill Ruben. I have never seen anything more violent in person in my life.
At some point the dog finally let go, the owner swept him into the house and we were able to get a hold of Ruben and check him. He had a pretty large puncture wound on his neck, but otherwise seemed okay. Of course somewhere in all of this our doctor called back to say Brian was not going to get Hep B. Are you kidding me?
Shawn had forgotten his phones, so I tried to call the work line with no luck. I called Mom and she flew over to my rescue. A neighbor got me the number for our vet, an ice pack for my fingers (have some pretty bad rope burn from the leash), and a bowl of water for Ruben. I called the vet and luckily our good friend Kate answered the phone. She said to bring him right in.
Somewhere in there I did get Shawn and he ended up meeting us at the vet. It turns out all of the skin on Ruben's neck was ripped away from the tendons, so he had to have surgery this morning. We left him at the vet last night, afraid that Brian would torture him here. The surgery involves 1, maybe two drain tubes that he will wear for 3-7 days. They will drain out onto the floor, so unfortunately he will be confined to the kitchen while he is wearing them. They also had to shave him from his ears to half way down his back. I just called for a status update and he is doing fine post surgery. I am sure the vet will elaborate on this when we pick up Ruben at 5.
The dog owner gave Mom his name, number and address last night, so I will be passing that along to the vet so he can cover Ruben's bills. We are still trying to decide whether or not to report the dog. What would you do?
Tell you what if it weren't for our beach vacation and the excitement of Lilah, this summer would really stink. Between the stupid health department banning our pool time and not being able to take a walk in my own damn neighborhood, I am kind of over it!
The good in all of this is that Brian stayed put. He didn't run away or into the street which would have made things much worse. I feel terrible that I couldn't protect him from seeing what he saw, but I am hoping that he is young enough that he won't remember. Also, I'm pretty much okay aside from emotional wounds and the rope burn, and Lilah is also okay. Ruben will be okay after some healing. Our neighbors came pouring out last night to check on us. The whole neighborhood knows what happened and they are all concerned. It's nice to have people who live nearby and have your back!
Please say a prayer for Ruben (if you pray for dogs!). I am sure he's going to have some pain and with the 4th coming up, he's going to be even more agitated now that he'll have healing to deal with on top of fireworks. Also, please pray that I can keep Brian a safe distance away from him! Thanks!
Sunday, June 26, 2011
A Very Thomas Birthday
Wow, we got so lucky with the weather for Brian's 3rd birthday party! 75 degrees on June 24th, who would have thought!? At his first birthday party we were all melting!! Last year must not have been too bad because I don't remember melting, but 75 is just unbelievable!
As always our wonderful friends and family pitched in to get things ready...making food, running errands, moving tables, etc! The park shelter was decked out in Thomas and his friends! Brian had to be physically restrained many time in order to keep the cake and balloons in place. It's kind of a mean trick to talk up a "Thomas party" to an almost 3 year old all week and then not let him touch the cake and balloons!
He had so much fun at the party though. He was filthy dirty and exhausted from all that playing. It's so nice to have the party at the park. The kids are entertained and clean up is minimal. Not that I would know...my wonderful friends and family took care of that for me!!
Brian got many, many presents and really enjoyed the yummy Thomas cake.
I was shocked when he stuck the entire Thomas face in his mouth! He also insisted that the face and "track" had to be on his plate!
He ate lots of pizza, gave lots of kisses and was an all around good boy. 
He was a little thrown off this year by not being able to play with each present as we went along, but he was pretty easily persuaded to move on once he realized there were "more presents" involved.
Thank you to all of our friends and family who came, helped, sent gifts and cards. Your love is much appreciated!
Oh and we got some great belly shots of all the preggos! Of course Shawn had to get in on the action. Nerd.
Mari at 35 weeks, me at almost 37.
Me almost 37 weeks, Jennie at 20.
Shawn has been working on his since college.
As always our wonderful friends and family pitched in to get things ready...making food, running errands, moving tables, etc! The park shelter was decked out in Thomas and his friends! Brian had to be physically restrained many time in order to keep the cake and balloons in place. It's kind of a mean trick to talk up a "Thomas party" to an almost 3 year old all week and then not let him touch the cake and balloons!
He had so much fun at the party though. He was filthy dirty and exhausted from all that playing. It's so nice to have the party at the park. The kids are entertained and clean up is minimal. Not that I would know...my wonderful friends and family took care of that for me!!
Brian got many, many presents and really enjoyed the yummy Thomas cake.
A little perplexed by the candle blowing concept, but very proud of himself once the task was accomplished and everyone cheered!
I was shocked when he stuck the entire Thomas face in his mouth! He also insisted that the face and "track" had to be on his plate!
He ate lots of pizza, gave lots of kisses and was an all around good boy. 
He was a little thrown off this year by not being able to play with each present as we went along, but he was pretty easily persuaded to move on once he realized there were "more presents" involved.
Thank you to all of our friends and family who came, helped, sent gifts and cards. Your love is much appreciated!Oh and we got some great belly shots of all the preggos! Of course Shawn had to get in on the action. Nerd.
Mari at 35 weeks, me at almost 37.
Me almost 37 weeks, Jennie at 20.
Shawn has been working on his since college.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Dr. Seuss Shower
A week ago we had a Dr. Seuss themed shower for my step-goddaughter, cousin and friend, Mari. She has a little man named Gavin Cain due two weeks after my due date (so early August). Her nursery is going to have a Dr. Seuss theme, so we planned the shower accordingly. My awesomely creative SIL, Teri, helped me out a ton and my Mama did too, as always!
Mari had a wonderful time and got lots of great things for Mr. Gavin. Everyone was excited by our theme-from the Seussey names for the food (Green Eggs and Ham, of course, Cheese Trees, Fieffer-feffer-feff, etc.) to the Cat in the Hat pictures we took of all in attendance. Including Munchie, Lilah and Gavin!
The hit of the party was the beautiful diaper cake Teri made. Shouldn't she go into business??!
Congratulations, Mari! Can't wait to meet bay Gavin!!!
Friday, June 24, 2011
Three Years Old
Dear Brian,
You are THREE today. I am in shock to be honest. How is that even possible? I have to admit that having your new little sister due very soon has softens the blow a little. But the hormones that come along with that have more than made up for it! I am excited to see you grow, and still very sad that you aren't a baby anymore.
Your year has been tough from time to time. Time out has definitely found a place in your world. You are not a bad boy by any means, but you certainly have your moments, tantrums and days! In fact your last day as a two year old was a tough one. I'm hoping your first day as a three year old will be much better! One thing that we have found out over this past year is that bargaining works well with you and it will continue to be used!
Since starting speech therapy your vocabulary has expanded quite a bit. Still work to be done for sure, but it's getting better.
You continue to be quite affectionate-especially with your mama! You pay attention to what everyone is doing and what's going on around you. You are in tune with feelings-especially the feelings of other children. You worry very much when you hear one crying.
On the hearing front, we don't know much because you have refused to cooperate during your tests this entire year. You get another chance next week. Cooperate. Please.
You are really into Thomas still. Really into Thomas. Curious George is still a favorite too. You have expanded your interests to include cars, puzzles and dinosaurs though! Golf is still a huge favorite, although you will watch any sport. You still love animals and recently have decided giraffes are more important to see at the Zoo than monkeys!
You are ridiculously funny and you know it! You love to laugh and you love to make people laugh. I'm excited to hear your silly jokes once your speech is better developed. I am sure they will be a hoot!
I don't have your 3 year stats yet (Monday), but I know you are pretty darn close to being tall enough for a booster seat...maybe even there! You are HEAVY I can definitely attest to that. I'm not sure how since you eat so little. Favorite foods include applesauce, yogurt, fruit bars, pizza, french fries, noodles and milkshakes. That's about it. Any snack foods like gold fish, chips and popsicles. I am hoping this will be the year you expand a bit. Maybe you'll even try meat! Water is still your number one drink of choice, with chocolate milk coming a close second. And you are STILL eating your baby cereal. Hey, it's protein. Eat meat and we'll talk!
You are still in diapers although we had a really good run on the potty train for a while there. I am hoping as your speech improves this will come along as well. You are due to start preschool in the fall, but as a Bible School Drop out (pretty much) this week, we shall see about that.
Little man, your world is about to change. Your baby sister will be here before you know it and it's going to be different around here. You need a sibling though and you will love her and be a good big brother, I'm certain. You are lonely and you need another kid to play with. Your fondness of babies is encouraging. I am hoping you will adore your baby sister.
I'm hoping this will be a great year for you. I am hoping that your speech will improve and we will see you grow by leaps and bounds in all of the areas that you need to. We know you are smart and capable and I can't wait to see you soar!
We love you, Brian Thomas, more than we could ever tell you. You are a joy, a total mess and so much fun to be around! It's hard to believe you have been here for three years, but I can't really remember what life was like before you.
Happy THIRD Birthday, buddy.
Love,
Mama
You are THREE today. I am in shock to be honest. How is that even possible? I have to admit that having your new little sister due very soon has softens the blow a little. But the hormones that come along with that have more than made up for it! I am excited to see you grow, and still very sad that you aren't a baby anymore.
Your year has been tough from time to time. Time out has definitely found a place in your world. You are not a bad boy by any means, but you certainly have your moments, tantrums and days! In fact your last day as a two year old was a tough one. I'm hoping your first day as a three year old will be much better! One thing that we have found out over this past year is that bargaining works well with you and it will continue to be used!
Since starting speech therapy your vocabulary has expanded quite a bit. Still work to be done for sure, but it's getting better.
You continue to be quite affectionate-especially with your mama! You pay attention to what everyone is doing and what's going on around you. You are in tune with feelings-especially the feelings of other children. You worry very much when you hear one crying.
On the hearing front, we don't know much because you have refused to cooperate during your tests this entire year. You get another chance next week. Cooperate. Please.
You are really into Thomas still. Really into Thomas. Curious George is still a favorite too. You have expanded your interests to include cars, puzzles and dinosaurs though! Golf is still a huge favorite, although you will watch any sport. You still love animals and recently have decided giraffes are more important to see at the Zoo than monkeys!
You are ridiculously funny and you know it! You love to laugh and you love to make people laugh. I'm excited to hear your silly jokes once your speech is better developed. I am sure they will be a hoot!
I don't have your 3 year stats yet (Monday), but I know you are pretty darn close to being tall enough for a booster seat...maybe even there! You are HEAVY I can definitely attest to that. I'm not sure how since you eat so little. Favorite foods include applesauce, yogurt, fruit bars, pizza, french fries, noodles and milkshakes. That's about it. Any snack foods like gold fish, chips and popsicles. I am hoping this will be the year you expand a bit. Maybe you'll even try meat! Water is still your number one drink of choice, with chocolate milk coming a close second. And you are STILL eating your baby cereal. Hey, it's protein. Eat meat and we'll talk!
You are still in diapers although we had a really good run on the potty train for a while there. I am hoping as your speech improves this will come along as well. You are due to start preschool in the fall, but as a Bible School Drop out (pretty much) this week, we shall see about that.
Little man, your world is about to change. Your baby sister will be here before you know it and it's going to be different around here. You need a sibling though and you will love her and be a good big brother, I'm certain. You are lonely and you need another kid to play with. Your fondness of babies is encouraging. I am hoping you will adore your baby sister.
I'm hoping this will be a great year for you. I am hoping that your speech will improve and we will see you grow by leaps and bounds in all of the areas that you need to. We know you are smart and capable and I can't wait to see you soar!
We love you, Brian Thomas, more than we could ever tell you. You are a joy, a total mess and so much fun to be around! It's hard to believe you have been here for three years, but I can't really remember what life was like before you.
Happy THIRD Birthday, buddy.
Love,
Mama
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
A Lot on the Brain
I am awake and have been since 5:30a.m. There is a lot going on. And there is no end in sight!
*I am running Vacation Bible School at church this week. Brian was supposed to attend, but last night didn't go so well. He's so used to being there that he thinks he can just do whatever he wants. We'll try again tonight maybe. I just keep thinking...is preschool going to work out in the fall? I guess it doesn't matter. We can always try in January, or wait until the following fall.
*I started two projects yesterday knowing I would not have time to complete them. Brian kept changing floors, so I had one going on each floor. They are related though. Downstairs I am de-tagging all of Lilah's newborn stuff and trying get out the things she will need right away. Upstairs I am packing up Brian's winter clothes to make room for Lilah's stuff in his (their) room. Thee is just not enough space! Both projects proved to overwhelm me and be more difficult than I expected. Downstairs I had to fight the dog off because Lilah's toys look like his. Upstairs I had to fight the child off. Every time I put a Thomas shirt in a box, he removed it. Grrrr!
*Speaking of the child and the dog, they were totally working together against me yesterday. We were late for VBS set up for many reasons, but starting with the fact that Brian got into his Birthday presents. Gone are the days that we can "hide" them in plain sight. After taking them away from my very upset child, I loaded him into the car (with much struggle) and went back inside to hide the gifts better. I forgot to shut the door from the house to the garage, so I came back into the garage to find the dog UNDER the car. He's such a jerk. So I told him to get into the car, where I can usually just grab him and put him inside. Unfortunately it was really stormy yesterday and he was very, very stressed. So, he jumped from seat to seat (much to Brian's pleasure; he was laughing hysterically) until I finally did grab him and he bit me. DONE. So I grabbed a towel, wrapped him in it and stuck him in the house making sure he knew he was a "bad dog."
*The dog and I did not have a good day AT ALL yesterday. He had me up around 4a.m. to get him water, and the storm had him so upset that I had to crawl out bed before I was ready to keep him calm...around 8a.m. Brian was still asleep and I really could have used the sleep.
*Brian's speech seems to be coming along. Yesterday he asked for a specific "Thomas" video, "Splish, Splash, Splosh." He also demanded his "Percy Puzzle"' all day long after finding it among his birthday gifts. "Mama, I want Percy puzzle." It was very hard not to give in on that! He was cracking me up the previous night too. He got three free educational Sesame Street cards in the mail and was "drilling" me on them. He's such a little teacher. He holds them up for ME to tell him what they are. Too funny. One has a picture of the Count on it and I would tell him it was the Count and he would say, "He says, ha ha ha," just like the Count laugh. I didn't even realize he knew who the Count was. Shawn says it is one one of his videos. Figures! Also yesterday morning I told him it was time to go a little ahead of time, thinking he would argue. I ran upstairs and came back to find him in the hallway (turning the lights on and off) with a Thomas toy. I asked him what he was doing and he said, "I bring Thomas." Apparently he was ready to roll!
*I have mentioned the upcoming birthday a few times, so I might as well admit that I spent a good amount of time Sunday morning crying over the fact that my baby will be THREE on Friday. More on this later.
*Brian's party is the last major event I have to plan and execute before Lilah comes. There is still a TON to do to get ready for her arrival, so I won't be less busy, but I am hoping to at least be able to focus on those things and on spending lots of time with Brian. On Sunday, mom and dad watched Brian so we could run out to buy some essentials for Miss Lilah. Sadly there is no where to put those things, but hopefully soon I will find the time to find the space.
*I am running Vacation Bible School at church this week. Brian was supposed to attend, but last night didn't go so well. He's so used to being there that he thinks he can just do whatever he wants. We'll try again tonight maybe. I just keep thinking...is preschool going to work out in the fall? I guess it doesn't matter. We can always try in January, or wait until the following fall.
*I started two projects yesterday knowing I would not have time to complete them. Brian kept changing floors, so I had one going on each floor. They are related though. Downstairs I am de-tagging all of Lilah's newborn stuff and trying get out the things she will need right away. Upstairs I am packing up Brian's winter clothes to make room for Lilah's stuff in his (their) room. Thee is just not enough space! Both projects proved to overwhelm me and be more difficult than I expected. Downstairs I had to fight the dog off because Lilah's toys look like his. Upstairs I had to fight the child off. Every time I put a Thomas shirt in a box, he removed it. Grrrr!
*Speaking of the child and the dog, they were totally working together against me yesterday. We were late for VBS set up for many reasons, but starting with the fact that Brian got into his Birthday presents. Gone are the days that we can "hide" them in plain sight. After taking them away from my very upset child, I loaded him into the car (with much struggle) and went back inside to hide the gifts better. I forgot to shut the door from the house to the garage, so I came back into the garage to find the dog UNDER the car. He's such a jerk. So I told him to get into the car, where I can usually just grab him and put him inside. Unfortunately it was really stormy yesterday and he was very, very stressed. So, he jumped from seat to seat (much to Brian's pleasure; he was laughing hysterically) until I finally did grab him and he bit me. DONE. So I grabbed a towel, wrapped him in it and stuck him in the house making sure he knew he was a "bad dog."
*The dog and I did not have a good day AT ALL yesterday. He had me up around 4a.m. to get him water, and the storm had him so upset that I had to crawl out bed before I was ready to keep him calm...around 8a.m. Brian was still asleep and I really could have used the sleep.
*Brian's speech seems to be coming along. Yesterday he asked for a specific "Thomas" video, "Splish, Splash, Splosh." He also demanded his "Percy Puzzle"' all day long after finding it among his birthday gifts. "Mama, I want Percy puzzle." It was very hard not to give in on that! He was cracking me up the previous night too. He got three free educational Sesame Street cards in the mail and was "drilling" me on them. He's such a little teacher. He holds them up for ME to tell him what they are. Too funny. One has a picture of the Count on it and I would tell him it was the Count and he would say, "He says, ha ha ha," just like the Count laugh. I didn't even realize he knew who the Count was. Shawn says it is one one of his videos. Figures! Also yesterday morning I told him it was time to go a little ahead of time, thinking he would argue. I ran upstairs and came back to find him in the hallway (turning the lights on and off) with a Thomas toy. I asked him what he was doing and he said, "I bring Thomas." Apparently he was ready to roll!
*I have mentioned the upcoming birthday a few times, so I might as well admit that I spent a good amount of time Sunday morning crying over the fact that my baby will be THREE on Friday. More on this later.
*Brian's party is the last major event I have to plan and execute before Lilah comes. There is still a TON to do to get ready for her arrival, so I won't be less busy, but I am hoping to at least be able to focus on those things and on spending lots of time with Brian. On Sunday, mom and dad watched Brian so we could run out to buy some essentials for Miss Lilah. Sadly there is no where to put those things, but hopefully soon I will find the time to find the space.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
35 Weeks
Everything checked out fine yesterday at the OB. Interestingly my sample came back "contaminated" last time and no one bothered to call and tell me.
So-
1. I could have been walking around with an infection all week at the beach and not known. (I doubt this very seriously as I feel fine.)
2. I was greeted with "I have to cath you today." WTH??
I lived, but I wasn't happy. My weight was the same as last week-WOOT! My blood pressure was surprisingly fine. I am always surprised that it's not high when things like, "I have to cath you today," have just been said. Lilah's heart rate was 138, her movement is good and I am measuring perfect.
Best news of the day...I don't have to get checked AT ALL unless I start having contractions. No need since I am having a scheduled c-section. WOOT!!
I was able to schedule my final 3 (weekly) appointments and after some confusion, I am pretty sure I convinced everyone who needs to know that my c-section will be on July 12th at 3:30p.m. with Dr. Brady, not on July 11th with Dr. Hinton. Their computer system is the WORST!
No real complaints other than I am tired...have you met Brian? My hips are really hurting me at night. Last night was better thanks to the tylenol and body pillow. I realized I could just use it between my legs and not have to have it all up in my face and that seems to work better. I'll try again tonight sans tylenol and see if it still works.
Here is my 34.5 week belly shot.
So-
1. I could have been walking around with an infection all week at the beach and not known. (I doubt this very seriously as I feel fine.)
2. I was greeted with "I have to cath you today." WTH??
I lived, but I wasn't happy. My weight was the same as last week-WOOT! My blood pressure was surprisingly fine. I am always surprised that it's not high when things like, "I have to cath you today," have just been said. Lilah's heart rate was 138, her movement is good and I am measuring perfect.
Best news of the day...I don't have to get checked AT ALL unless I start having contractions. No need since I am having a scheduled c-section. WOOT!!
I was able to schedule my final 3 (weekly) appointments and after some confusion, I am pretty sure I convinced everyone who needs to know that my c-section will be on July 12th at 3:30p.m. with Dr. Brady, not on July 11th with Dr. Hinton. Their computer system is the WORST!
No real complaints other than I am tired...have you met Brian? My hips are really hurting me at night. Last night was better thanks to the tylenol and body pillow. I realized I could just use it between my legs and not have to have it all up in my face and that seems to work better. I'll try again tonight sans tylenol and see if it still works.
Here is my 34.5 week belly shot.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
This Week in Brian's Words
This past week we...
Played on the "beach" in the "sand."
Brian especially liked his "truck" and catching "bish." Still no "f" on that, but we're working on it. At least there's a substitute instead of an omission! We also caught some clams and watched them re-bury themselves!
We went "swimming" in the "ocean." Brian apparently likes the taste of salt water as much as chlorinated water. Gross!
We hunted for "alligators." Really! There were real alligators near our beach. Shawn and I were slightly afraid. Shawn was actually really afraid. A nice local assured us we had nothing to worry about. We still chose to walk back on the salt water side of the bridge and look for crabs instead. Brian was entertained by the alligators, not so much by the crabs. In fact, he decided he was "all done" and we headed back to the car.
We followed "Thomas' tracks" on the "beach." No pictures of this, but Brian found some ATV tracks in the sand and insisted they were "Thomas tracks." We walked for a really long time. The tracks ended in the ocean where there happened to be a little boy with Thomas trunks on. B was sooooo excited!
We searched for "dino tracks" and found "dino eggs." (AKA golf balls!) Ever heard of "Dino Dan"? Me neither. Apparently it's a great show on Nick Junior. At least Brian thinks so. Thus the sudden demands to hunt for dinosaur tracks. We do not have cable, but Nana has already DVR'd several for Brian's viewing pleasure.
We "nap"ped a lot.
We shopped at the Piggly Wiggly!
We ran the Marsh Walk. Shawn also found a cool sign on the Marsh Walk!
We "golfed". Both on the course and at the beach. Well kind of. With a rake.
We made new friends. A little guy 2 weeks older than B convinced Brian to finally go in the water on Tuesday. Awesome! Then Friday, a little girl about 2 weeks older also was having fits about the water. Brian was very concerned for her and took her a "shovel" to try to get her to play with him in the sand. Eventually she did. So sweet!
We ended our love affair with the Blue Crab, but found lots of other great places to eat. Landolfis-yummy pizza, sandwiches and pastries. Brian even ate the "pizza"! Russels-"the best fish ever" according to Shawn and some pretty yummy crab and Parmesan dip too! La Playa (The Beach)-yummy Mexican and food from other Spanish speaking countries. We had empanas and Shawn said the salsa was really spicy. I could smell the spice!
We cooked and ate in some and did lots of walking around the plantation.
The weather was great and we didn't want to leave! At least the weather is supposed to be nice at home this coming week!
On the way home, Brian was pretty much done. He did pretty well yesterday, although we did have a hilarious "poop" incident involving Brian waddling into a gas station with a very full diaper (much to the amusement of the many, many locals standing around outside). Today was a tough ride, but we made it. Brian was thrilled to be home with his toys. He enjoyed the beach, but I think a week was enough for him.
Tomorrow I will be 35 weeks pregnant. Today marks 1 month until my c-section! We will be holding "baby Lilah" by this time ONE MONTH from today!!! I see the OB tomorrow and will post my 34.5 week belly shot after, along with an update from the doc.
Played on the "beach" in the "sand."
Brian especially liked his "truck" and catching "bish." Still no "f" on that, but we're working on it. At least there's a substitute instead of an omission! We also caught some clams and watched them re-bury themselves!
We went "swimming" in the "ocean." Brian apparently likes the taste of salt water as much as chlorinated water. Gross!
We hunted for "alligators." Really! There were real alligators near our beach. Shawn and I were slightly afraid. Shawn was actually really afraid. A nice local assured us we had nothing to worry about. We still chose to walk back on the salt water side of the bridge and look for crabs instead. Brian was entertained by the alligators, not so much by the crabs. In fact, he decided he was "all done" and we headed back to the car.
We followed "Thomas' tracks" on the "beach." No pictures of this, but Brian found some ATV tracks in the sand and insisted they were "Thomas tracks." We walked for a really long time. The tracks ended in the ocean where there happened to be a little boy with Thomas trunks on. B was sooooo excited!
We searched for "dino tracks" and found "dino eggs." (AKA golf balls!) Ever heard of "Dino Dan"? Me neither. Apparently it's a great show on Nick Junior. At least Brian thinks so. Thus the sudden demands to hunt for dinosaur tracks. We do not have cable, but Nana has already DVR'd several for Brian's viewing pleasure.
We "nap"ped a lot.
We shopped at the Piggly Wiggly!
We ran the Marsh Walk. Shawn also found a cool sign on the Marsh Walk!
We "golfed". Both on the course and at the beach. Well kind of. With a rake.
We made new friends. A little guy 2 weeks older than B convinced Brian to finally go in the water on Tuesday. Awesome! Then Friday, a little girl about 2 weeks older also was having fits about the water. Brian was very concerned for her and took her a "shovel" to try to get her to play with him in the sand. Eventually she did. So sweet!
We ended our love affair with the Blue Crab, but found lots of other great places to eat. Landolfis-yummy pizza, sandwiches and pastries. Brian even ate the "pizza"! Russels-"the best fish ever" according to Shawn and some pretty yummy crab and Parmesan dip too! La Playa (The Beach)-yummy Mexican and food from other Spanish speaking countries. We had empanas and Shawn said the salsa was really spicy. I could smell the spice!
We cooked and ate in some and did lots of walking around the plantation.
The weather was great and we didn't want to leave! At least the weather is supposed to be nice at home this coming week!
On the way home, Brian was pretty much done. He did pretty well yesterday, although we did have a hilarious "poop" incident involving Brian waddling into a gas station with a very full diaper (much to the amusement of the many, many locals standing around outside). Today was a tough ride, but we made it. Brian was thrilled to be home with his toys. He enjoyed the beach, but I think a week was enough for him.
Tomorrow I will be 35 weeks pregnant. Today marks 1 month until my c-section! We will be holding "baby Lilah" by this time ONE MONTH from today!!! I see the OB tomorrow and will post my 34.5 week belly shot after, along with an update from the doc.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Beachy Pics
Today we head to the beach for the last time this summer. It's hard to believe our trip is drawing to a close. Brian started out the week completely content to play in the sand. He wasn't exactly afraid of the water, but really didn't want anything to do with it either. He's still not as excited by the water as he was last year, but he has been getting in more and more. Maybe now that he's older, he's wiser and knows to be a bit afraid?
We are going to get moving here soon, but here are a few beachy pics just until I have more time! (Um, when will that be???) These are just the first few days.
We are going to get moving here soon, but here are a few beachy pics just until I have more time! (Um, when will that be???) These are just the first few days.
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