Post op thoughts

Well, I think yesterday will be one of those days forever in my memory. But, as memories fade, here are some moments I do not want to forget. This is more for me than anyone.

1) When we were checking in at the admissions desk, I looked over and saw a beautiful almost life size nativity of Mary, and Joseph, and Baby Jesus nestled so beautifully against a lit background and poinsettas. That tenderness of it all touched me. But especially as I walked by and noticed this cute mom with her two kiddos (http://givehopetobensonandclaire.blogspot.com/) crouched down with her little girl in her pink stroller looking at Baby Jesus on their way to her baby girl's DAILY 3 hour DIALYSIS treatment. She looked up at me and smiled, almost knowingly and reassuringly as if "I know what your kid is about to experience." For me, just taking Bella to surgery for the third time was enough for me. I can not even imagine what it would be like to go for every day procedures. But the great thing is that I just learned her little girl will be getting a new kidney TONIGHT! She will be in that same preop area and PACU and everything that Bella was in. It just brings tears to my eyes to think about all the struggles they have had and will have to deal with. I am grateful for only a little eye surgery. Click on the link above to learn more on their story.

2) The worst part of yesterday: Getting Bella to drink the tylenol mixed with the drug that makes you forget and calm down. It was pink but she would have none of it in pre op. She spit half of it back into my hands while screaming and being restrained and me turning into Medusa mom "you have to drink this NOW!! Do not spit it out!!!" Luckily, it still took affect.

3) The best part of yesterday: Being able to go in the PACU (post anesthesia care unit) or recovery room as soon (ok 15 minutes) after she came out of the OR to hold her while she woke up. I walked into this huge 40 bed PACU. I could just see rows and rows of beds with half asleep people. None of the curtains were drawn because they don't let visitors in there. But Bella was put there because the pediatric one was full and they have the parents come back for kids (note to Columbus' Children's to do the same asap). Bella was in the far corner but I immediately knew where she was. She was the only child in there. There was a high pitched cry for Mama(!) and a crowd of people hovered around the only rocking chair in there with the nurse trying to soothe her. As soon as I got her settled in my arms she went right back to sleep the anesthesia off. They immediately pulled the curtains all around me (probably so I wouldn't see any of the other 30 something patients). I got to sit and just hold and rock her sleeping form in there for at least an hour and just breathe her in. When do you get to do that?!

4) Worst part of today: Trying to hold her down and get drops in her eyes 4 times a day without poking her in the eyes. Plus get her to swallow medicine every 6 hours. Believe me, she needs it, you can tell when she doesn't have her meds she just cries and cries and lays around. Bribes do not work since her memory from yesterday. I spent about 1/2 hour trying to bribe the first dose and then decided turning into Medusa it is. I still spent about 2 hours today trying to do this. Any suggestions would be appreciated . . .

5) Another happy memory: The rush I always get from walking in a hospital. I love the smell of the latex and hand sanitizer and everything (ok almost everything). My adrenaline starts pumping even now as I think about it. I love talking about medical stuff, and being able to help people and explain things, and do chest compressions, and start IVs, and even help hold a bowl for someone when they puke. I love thinking about all the things I did in the hospitals back in Ohio. I LOVE learning and I LOVE teaching. I love being that person--that nurse. Sometime maybe I'll be back there working, but for now, that memory alone can take me to a happy place.

BUT For now, I'll be my Bella's nurse. And hold her down and make her have her antibiotic/steroid drops. And then give her gum drops and tell her how much I love her. And give her lots of loves and stories and cuddles. And guide her hands since she's seeing double. And talk about sometimes we have to do hard things, etc. etc. And wait, and worry, and watch for signs of infection since I'm not sure how much of the drop she actually gets between clenched eye lids. And keep Hoping that this surgery will have made things better.

And help her get better because I love her and care about her much more than I could any other job.

The Big Day

B's big surgery day was today. She got herself dressed in comfy pjs and a big sweater because of course it was below freezing. We waited for over an hour to be called back from the pediatric assessment area. B was fine with that because it meant more time to watch TV--Sid the Science Kid, Super Y, etc. As a side note, we do not have our TV hooked up so she was in HEAVEN.

It's amazing that she sat like this for at least 1/2 an hour. Oh yeah, and she chose a spiderman sticker at the admissions desk. A different choice for our princess girl.

Here's where the doctor initialed on each eye so they knew where and what to cut and sew.


Here she is in her cozy kiddie scrubs and cap she had to wear for surgery. She was not very excited at this point.

Here she is about 6 hours later with the meds wearing off and her face a bit swollen as you can see. You can't see how her eyes are bloody here. But owing to our last experience, this will probably last for a week or so.

We are thankful this day is over and hope for a speedy recovery!

We love you Bella!

Thank YOU

Well, I'm still too lazy to upload pictures. Sorry.

B's surgery is tomorrow and so I must prep bags for S and her. Plus Eric's on call so I'll be taking B in by myself (he'll meet us there). She was sad going to bed tonight when I reminded her she couldn't have breakfast in the morning. But I was reminded of the Lord's tender mercies when I found out we didn't have to report until 8 am. And because my dear visiting teachee is watching Sierra!

Also, thanks for the clothes, Kaicie. They are perfect and little did you know, an answer to prayers. Bella was so excited to go through them, try them on, put them away, etc. etc.

Also, thanks to Monica, my wonderful neighbor for coming over and taking gorgeous photos of the girls yesterday in our home. I am so grateful that although she prefers outdoor shots, she took them inside by our big window since the high was 17. Once she sends me all of them I'll post some.

Thank you for the Christmas treats that are trickling in. They mean more than you know (even though I'm pretty sure only one person here has my blog address). Still a public thank you. I feel like I might just have friends. I'm excited to try the chocolate chili mix and brown sugar scrub!

Also, you know who you are, Mai-mai. You made your friend's day by sending a cute package for her big surgery day tomorrow. I started getting all teary.

Thanks to all of you who fasted and have prayed for us and Bella.

There are angels among us. And they are YOU!

Winter is here

Well, it's official. Winter is here. We just got hit by a blizzard (aka snow with zero visibility) over the last 24 hours. I took a picture of our deck with the snow over Sierra's head. Some of the drifts are 3 feet plus it didn't help the plow just went around the circle 5 times and piled all that snow at the base of our driveway. School is canceled. We're not going anywhere.

Eric took our only snow shovel with him to work because he had to dig the car out 3 times on his way there. Yesterday, Walmart was out of folding shovels for the car. Guess I should have gone to another store.

And last night we put 3M window film up to help combat the below freezing temperatures. It is a perfectionist task.

And of course it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!


As a health update, S is much better thanks to Amoxicillin except for the perpetual runny nose. B is now on a Zpack for a sinus infection and bronchitis. And I'm over the flu but feel bronchitis coming on. So we're doing better. :)

And here's S's one year stats I omitted last post: 22 lbs and 30 inches. She's only gained 1 lb in 3 months, something I'm not used to with her above average sister. Hence, S is still wearing 18 month size (she even fits in some 12 month stuff). She needs lots of cozy warm clothes in 18 month size if you're in the buying mood. And Bella could use cozy 5T winter clothes. ;)

Salutations from up North!
Lynnsey, glad you're in Guam now?

I have the flu

Well, it's official. I have the influenza. Yay for me! I got the flu shot but not H1N1 cause I didn't "qualify." Next time I'm lying and saying I have a 2 month old in the house. Just kidding.

Also, this little cutie turned ONE yesterday! Sadly she has an ear infection and 2 pink eyes and a URI (upper respiratory infection). So it was not as fun as it could have been . . .


But I dressed her all up in a cute outfit for her special day. This hat lasted about 1 minute but was just so dang cute!


I gave her her own box of kleenex to play with. She loved it. I think every one year old should get one of these:



She also got some clothes from Oma and Great Grandma. Thanks! She immediately draped them over her shoulders. She's a smart girl! You'll also notice the cute stuffed animal bird at her knees from her friend, Hewitt. It's a yellow winged warbler. That one's for you, Nate. ;)


She also got in lots of time with her awesome sister! So we may have two kids with pinkeye in a little while. . . .
We gave her a baby doll of her very own that she just loved.


And of course a cake or post-cake picture:


And then we got to Skype with Oma, Grandpa, Aunt Manda, Livy, and of course, Roxie. Yay for technology! Now Eric's parents just need to get it.

Thanks so much for all the well wishes for this little princess. She adds so much to our home. Happy Birthday one year old! We love you SOOO Much!




P.S. for those who still have the stamina to read more on this blog, my mom sent me this funny email and I couldn't stop laughing which is supposed to be good for the immune system. I deleted one that I didn't agree with but I thought I'd pass the rest on:

1) I think part of a best friend's job should be to immediately clear your
computer history if you die.

2) Nothing sucks more than that moment during an argument when you realize
you're wrong.

3) I totally take back all those times I didn't want to nap when I was
younger.

4) There is great need for a sarcasm font.

5) How the h..... are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet?

6) Was learning cursive really necessary?

7) Map Quest really needs to start their directions on #5. Pretty sure I
know how to get out of my neighborhood.

8) Obituaries would be a lot more interesting if they told you how the
person died.

9) I can't remember the last time I wasn't at least kind of tired.

10) Bad decisions make good stories.

11) You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work
when you know that you just aren't going to do anything productive for the
rest of the day.

12) Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after Blue Ray? I don't
want to have to restart my collection...again.

13) I'm always slightly terrified when I exit out of Word and it asks me if
I want to save any changes to my ten page research paper that I swear I did
not make any changes to.

14) "Do not machine wash or tumble dry" means I will never wash this --
ever.

15) I hate when I just miss a call by the last ring (Hello? Hello? D.....
it!), but when I immediately call back, it rings nine times and goes to
voicemail. What'd you do after I didn't answer? Drop the phone and run away?

16) I hate leaving my house confident and looking good and then not seeing
anyone of importance the entire day. What a waste.

17) My 4 year old asked me in the car the other day "Dad what would
happen if you ran over a ninja?" How do I respond to that?

19) I think the freezer deserves a light as well.

Update

Well, Thanksgiving here was none too eventful. Eric worked all day and night and slept the next day. And then he went back and worked again all weekend. So that was really fun. ;D


My saving grace was that some people invited me to their Thanksgiving dinner and all I had to do was do drinks . . . for 30 something. Luckily, being Mormon, no alcohol is involved in "drinks" so that helped me budget wise. I made a delicious banana citrus crush type drink where you add 7 up. It resembles a daiquiri. Plus I brought the usual 2 liters and water with lemon graced the tables. I was highly complimented on it and consider it a success!

Although I was unsuccessful in remembering to take pictures til after the festivities had ended.

On another note--check out those thighs! I think Sierra's thighs definitely beat out the turkey ones we feasted on. Lucky girl, she got those from me. :)


Also, we brought out our bouncer seat for the girls' dolls to pretend. But Sierra fully claims it (maybe she has newborn memories of the countless hours she slept/spent here as it was the only thing that soothed her colic). She just climbs her little hiney on up there and is as happy as anything.

Bella, on the other hand, decided to take a little nap here before Thanksgiving dinner. She was so excited and kept asking me when we were going and got all ready in this cute dress and leggings. But as you see, sleep got the best of her watchful waiting. I felt so bad for her but had to take a picture and then helped her move!

And here's one more just cause I can't get enough of those thighs that are all covered up (usually) this winter!!

Today I Woke Up and My Heart Ached

For a place to call home.

(no, I did not do that screaming crazy thing that Belle does in New Moon-- a little dramatic I think). But I do feel like there is a bit of a void in my heart that is not yet filled from moving from a place we loved.

Somehow, we're not here yet. And Eric working tons doesn't help.

I'm trying to make friends. I make phone calls, send emails, extend invitations. . .

When we moved out here I told myself it takes at least 6 months to make it feel like home.

But it's a long six months.

I'm glad we're flying "home" to Utah for Christmas. That will do my heart some good so I don't

have to spend another holiday alone.

I need to remember this feeling so I can help others as well as cultivate the "longing for home" in the eternal sense.

Christmas Cards?!

Hey peeps!

It's that time of year, so if you want a picture or two headed your way for the holiday season, drop me a line of your name and address and you'll be added to our Christmas card mailing list!

Leave your info in the comments or email me at rachel.o.freeman@gmail.com

Much love!
~R

Motivation

Any good ideas out there for getting a 3 year old to do their "chores?" (i.e. getting dressed, putting clothes away, emptying the utensils, etc.)

1, 2, 3 Magic tends to work for negative behavior.

But how do you motivate your kids to do good things?! I was thinking of a chore chart with stickers. . . .

If any of you have already blogged about this can you give me the link to that post?

Danke!

Here's a fun pic E clicked one night as B and I were both "checking our email." I know--I look super excited don't I? B's email consists of plunking on Word on the retired lap top that moves at about 1 word per minute. But she's super into it and I'm glad it makes her happy.

Quote of the Day

‘Today, in a quiet grove at Valley Forge, there is a heroic-sized monument to Washington. He is depicted not astride a charging horse nor overlooking a battlefield of glory, but kneeling in humble prayer, calling upon the God of heaven for divine help. To gaze upon the statue prompts the mind to remember the oft-heard expression, “A man stands tallest when upon his knees.”

“Unfortunately, prosperity, abundance, honor, and praise lead some men to the false security of haughty self-assurance and the abandonment of the inclination to pray. Conversely, turmoil, tribulation, sickness, and death crumble the castles of men’s pride and bring them to their knees to plead for power from on High. Well might the younger generation ask, 'But what about today? Does he still hear? Does He continue to answer?' To which I promptly reply: “There is no expiration date on the Lord’s injunction to pray. As we remember Him, He will remember us.”
~Thomas S. Monson

Cake on her Face?!

Does SOMEONE have cake on her face? !

That's right! Less than a month til this monkey is one!

Where does time fly!?

Sorry

Sorry. No Blogee.

Have guestees.

Ron and Sonee.

Too much funee.

Maybe in a few days.

When they leave. :(

But don't remind meeeeeeeeee.

Here's a pic of B blowing out candles on my birthday.


Thanks Belly. For the help. Love YOU LOTS!

10 Things I . . .

This is a long one and random pictures. But I figure it's due:

Ok, so I thought I'd list 10 Things I Like/Have Been Doing Lately/or Used to Like. I hope you find it interesting.

Here goes:

1. In high school, "10 Things I Hate About You" was one of my (and all my girl friends) favorite movies. We watched it at least once a month. Promise. And we'd get our guy friends to watch it too. Repetitively. I probably like it so much because:

2. In junior high, I played Beatrice in our school's version of Much Ado About Nothing. I LOVED that character. I still remember saying, "I'd rather hear a dog bark, than a man swear he loves me." I kept that motto for several years until I met college.

B's princess (and prince) party. Cupcake time!
Let's hope she keeps my former motto for a long time too

3. Which brings me to my next THING or rather DOG. We have been fostering this little lady through Small Dog Rescue of Minnesota since last Sunday. After the first couple days she has settled in nicely to our routine. She even correlates her naptime with the kiddos.
I signed up for it since I have that place in my heart for animals. She is a sweetheart, does not shed, and is adored by my girls (which she tolerates rather well I must say). I highly recommend fostering since it is a shorter term commitment and the company provides all the grooming/vet/food/etc. Know of someone who wants to give her a forever home?!

my unprofessional photo shoot

4. Speaking of FOREVER, I haven't seen much of Eric this month (he is doing his ICU rotation). In fact, sometimes it seems like forever. Like tonight, when he is on call. BUT, I am So thankful for the knowledge that our family can be together forever. This is only one of the things that I, as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe.

Our other princess and her doting dad

5. Recently, as in 3 weeks ago, we had our church's General Conference. Which means our church leaders and modern-day prophets spoke to us (as in millions of people across the world through satellite broadcast to church buildings). I LOVE General Conference and am always so uplifted and INSPIRED. If you're wondering what they said you can view, listen, or read it here. Or for more information you can check out www.mormon.org

Opening birthday gifts and LOVING it!
(note patched eye, surgery scheduled for December)

6. I also have been trying to resurrect my daily scripture study/thinking time/quiet time in the morning before the kids get up. It's only about 15 minutes but it nourishes my soul and has helped me put the day in perspective before all the craziness begins.

Look who's standing now!? (with her mini guitar in hand)
I can't get enough of those thighs. Even if it is cold.

7. Another thing that speaks to my soul is MUSIC. I LOVE IT! I started teaching piano lessons this fall, as I have played since I was 6 and wanted to pass that love onto others. Plus, I LOVe teaching. So, to add a little flair to my music "studio" (i.e. corner with a piano in it), I purchased a sign from my friend Cassi that reads "Discover Music: the vernacular of the soul." I'll take a picture of it sometime. Also, my friend Monica, does vinyl too. So I'll be using her in the near future for other decorating projects up my sleeve . . .

S's version of hanging out
Eric's on call now, obviously. At the end of the day I've had it.
And Wendy's food is in the background!

8. Speaking of creative. I hosted a baby shower yesterday and over half the gifts were handmade. And AMAZING. We're talking boutique-quality blankets, booties, even handsewn 0-3months sweats and the cutest baby ugs you'll ever see knitted. One lady says she does sell her things in boutiques in Cali. And others sell them here. Wow. I don't think I've ever been in a room with so many crafty ladies. Who would have known here at the north pole? I guess you have to do something when it's so cold so long!?! Maybe my sewing machine has hope yet . . .

We have found B loves anyone dressed in any sort of character suit.
Here she wouldn't leave our tour of the firehouse without a picture with the fire dog, Sparky.

9. Or maybe not. Because you know what starts every November!?! That's right. Basketball season! And I found a bball league here through the local technical college and signed up with a bunch of ladies from the hubby's work. I think I'm the only one who doesn't work there and I haven't met any of them but I'm excited. Our season starts November 16th. Wish me luck!

S practicing the "wave" for halftime

10. Onto other things I Like/LOve. If you know me, you know I love to exercise. Talk about a sanity saver and de-stresser. And luckily our local YMCA is the place for me. Ghetto, you must be thinking. So did I, but then I realized I'm a little ghetto too. PLUS I LOVE their childcare. My girls have such a good time their and I feel like they are so well taken care of and safe. And I have discovered that, like my parents, I love spinning. And luckily they have all these free classes with a membership.

B's version of Spinning

Ok, so that's about it for now. And OF COURSE, if I had a #11, it would say FRIENDS and FAMILY like YOU!!! I cannot express how much you all mean to me. If you're reading this blog, this means YOU. Perhaps your value has hit me harder as I realize we are really here for the long haul. We miss you all!

And I'm so looking forward to these next couple weeks. Eric will be done with this rotation, Halloween, then in-laws visit! Every time I think about in-laws visiting I think about you, Melissa. This post is for you, beautiful friend. You are a light in itself.

Melissa's grad bash! Yay!

Preschool

Someone has been talking about preschool for a while now. So I caved in and signed her up for one day a week.
Look at that grin as she gets in the car. She's got her watch on, purse handy, and an attitude to match.

A New Love

K.
Just wanted to share with you all since I am IN LOVE with these socks my friend, Heather, gave me as a moving away present.

They are soooo comfy! My feet feel like I've just had a paraffin wax pedicure. Delicious! And great for this chilly weather and expected first snow fall tomorrow!

A great stocking stuffer. Do you think E would like them?

I should be getting paid to advertise these. ;)

And THANK YE Heather. Who introduced you to these beauts?

A Special Announcement

Well, SOMEONE (clearing throat) has a birthday in the next week. I'm not mentioning any names or pointing any fingers, but I'm sure this certain person would love any birthday wishes you would send her way. She may be related to the above-pictured little cow baby. She may even be the mother of the cute baby-in-costume. But, like I said, I'm not mentioning any names. Just putting it out there.

That said. I feel like it's all good and dandy to announce your birthday before hand. But the day of I feel weird saying "it's my birthday!" to someone. Maybe some of you don't mention your birthday at all. What do you think?

B is Three!

Hard to believe that three years has flown by. But it's true.

This post is more for Bella and me to remember than for you to care about. But here it is:

Dear Bella,

Today we had fun filled day full of princesses and sugar. I hope it was a beautiful one.

Whenever we asked you what you wanted for your birthday you just said,"Pink Licorice." That request was simple enough. But we knew how much you love "Cinderelly-night-and-day" as you put it, so we thought a Princess Party was in order.

When you got up I had a little package of Tinkerbell socks waiting for you next to your favorite cereal "Trix" on a princess table cloth. You squealed in delight. It was priceless. S got to have a few morsels too.

You also opened an envelope from Grandma and Grandpa Freeman to find some money and carried it around in a cardboard photo tube all day.

Then we had playgroup come and had a little princess (and one prince) party complete with candy necklaces and playdough and pink cupcakes that were self-sprinkled by each child. Bella wore this huge Tinkerbell pin that said "Pixie Power" and her new Tutu (thanks Andrea) under her princess dress which she had on over a pink turtleneck and black cords. She ate about three candy necklaces and I nixed the 4th.
You reminded us to sing happy birthday to you when we had "snack" and ate apples we had picked at the orchard yesterday as well as the pink chocolate cupcakes you requested. Unfortunately we had no candles so we had to call dad to pick some up on the way home from work to use later that night.
When everyone left you told me you wanted another birthday party. They are so fun.

After your nap Eric was home (yay for an early day!) and you opened your presents from us an Oma and Tressa I had wrapped the night before. She was super excited to open each one. Although of course clothes aren't the favorite thing of a 3 year old. But she lit up when she saw the Christmas dress from Oma and the "chocolate" from Aunt Tressa. She just kept saying: "more presents for me?!"

You has been requesting Cinderella and Barbie dolls for a while. So when you opened the $5 polly-pocket type Cinderella and Sleeping beauty you were in love. It was so cute. You carried those around with you everywhere and constantly wanted to change their clothes. You couldn't even eat the pink dinner we made her (eggs, sausage, strawberry milk, and pancakes) because you were so distracted playing with Cinderella and her "mom" as you called Aurora. And of course you had eaten a candy necklace only 5 minutes before.

We splurged a bit this time and got her one big gift--a dollhouse. I have been wanting to get her one for some time and so have checked them out for a year or so. Finally we felt she was old enough to appreciate it and the timing was right. I found a great deal on Fisher Price and got a quality one that we can add sets to. I have been really excited about this and could hardly wait til her birthday. I love giving gifts. She was as excited as I thought she'd be and exclaimed, "A dollhouse!?" I love it. And Sierra of course "helped" dad put it together as well as taste each person and piece of furniture etc.

Bella played for quite a while with everything (as did her sister) until we announced we would watch Nemo with her. We wanted to get a princess movie but personally I think some of the villains are pretty scary for a 3 year old. So we settled on Nemo. B was pretty enraptured by that too and it was fun to have family movie time and be able to enjoy a movie together.

I think her new little Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty are her new favorites as they are down in her room right now as she sleeps. But I will rest easy tonight that after putting lots of thoughts and energy into making her feel like a Princess today--I was successful.

Thanks for all the cards and phone calls and gifts! Dave and Rashelle got the perfect Princess card. And "Gi-Gi" with her "Princess" necklace. B also loved the phone message from Grandpa. And requests more. :)

Bella, you are a joy to have in our home. Of course sometimes you are so independent and "I do it" is one of your most common sayings. But you also love to cuddle with your "Mom" and are a great big sister to Sierra. You LOVE animals and will pick up or pet anything that comes your way. You have started saying, "go away" or "I don't want to" as well as "I did it!" and "I love you, Mom" and "I missed you." You are a true three year old. You like to pat Sierra on her head and say in a baby voice with your teeth in a clenched smile,"It's ok Ci-ci. It's ok." If she cries you go to see what's wrong. If she laughs, you want to join in the fun.

You sleep like a champ now in your "big girl bed" and tell mom "I'm a big girl, now." You love princesses and layering your clothes and can be seen wearing many multi-colored outfits that you put together yourself.

You learn a lot from example and Love singing songs. You love music and dancing in general.

You are very tall and gorgeous and are pretty obedient to mom, although sometimes I have to pull out the stern voice or threatenings. Everything is PINK to you. And you love "cute" and "sparkly" things. It's fun to hear you say,"that's cute!" or "Ooooh, I like that" to me when I'm wearing something you haven't seen before. You love my earrings and everything jewelry and are already accumulating quite the stash.

We had a pink, princessy, beautiful day in honor of a girl that is so precious to me and her dad and sister. We love you Bella. You are our beautiful girl, our miracle baby, and we are so glad we can be a forever family with you.

Love,
Your Mom

British Doctors Leave Preemie To Die

Check this story out:
http://www.parentdish.com/2009/09/15/british-doctors-leave-preemie-to-die/

And then tell me what YOU think?!

We're Back!

Ahhhh . . . .

It's good to be back.

We are almost recovered from our vacation. ;)

Although it was a good one. To Utah that is. . .

Except for that part where Sierra got 2nd degree burns on her hands. This picture is before that. At the zoo. Fireplaces are evil. Especially when only the pilot light is on. And they're on ground level. And the hotel doesn't tell you the pilot light is on. And and and . . .

I'd say after this experience I don't want to work in a burn unit.

You know the expression "writhing in pain" ? Well. I never want to see my child do that again.

More later.

Flying with Babies

Picture? You ask. Well, I'll tell you more about that after you finish reading this post.



Well--I love to travel. I love seeing new places. I love smelling new smells. I love it. Most of the time.


I guess it's in my jeans - - - I mean genes - - - since my dad immigrated here from the Switz (aka Switzerland) only about 25 years ago.


Anyhow--I have flown with both my girls 7 times since S's birth. Yep. That's right. I'm now on my 4th trip with the kiddos visiting fam. The other side this time.





They are pretty good travelers as well. They seem to have that same excitement for flying and that adrenaline rush that hits every time the plane takes off. Plus free "spicy juice" aka soda helps as well.





BUT this was my WORST travel experience. NOt because of my girls. They in fact were angels and took turns sleeping on the flights. And B even managed to go potty by herself about 3 times in the teeny airplane toilets.





It was because of THE AIRLINE.





And of course I have NEVER been asked to prove S's age until this last time:





SOUTHWEST.





Hello! She was not even 9 months old. Drooling--in her pjs--with that baby look--sparse hair--can't walk--can't even feed herself very well. And they question me that she's under 2?!! And threaten to make me pay for a child seat for her. While I say "If you know babies you can see she is OBVIOUSLY not 2" (even if you don't know babies it's pretty obvious).


And what does the unpleasant checkout guy say: "Well--the CFA doesn't know babies . . . blah blah blah."


I say "I haven't ever been asked to show ID for her before."


He says: "Well did you fly Southwest?!"


Me: "NO."


He: "Well that's why."








Ok OK. I bow to you Southwest. You are awesome.





Except for the fact that you count carseats as luggage pieces. Unlike Northwest or American or US Airways etc. etc.





So much for 2 free bags per person.





But wait. It didn't stop there.





Not only was the checkin man exasperating but NO one stepped an inch out of their way to let me get by with my stroller as I tried to get my position as A25. Yep--I checked in exactly 24 hours before and got the A group. And people were giving me disapproving glares as I tried to actually get my coveted position. Some men even tried to look over my shoulder at my number on that ticket. I imagined myself in Wild West days giving them a good smack.





This scenario was also repeated on my 2nd flight after my quick layover and the same refusal to move an inch type thing. Really?!





And then when I got down to the bottom of the jetway I guess the 30.6 seconds to one-handedly close up my stroller (I tell you I have flown a lot) was too long for the people behind me to wait (Mrs. A26 and A27 you know who you are) and so they rushed on past bumping into me balancing my diaper bag, portable DVD player, and S while Bells and her Scooby Doo backpack also got their onslaught.





Thanks. Ms. A 26 and Mr. 27. You are real winners.





Ahhhh . . . . . . . . . . . . .

thanks for letting me let it all out.





I must say there was one redeeming thing in that a pilot who was along for the flight carried S out (in her carseat) of the last plane for me. And offered any other help I needed.





You, Mr. Southwest pilot, are a gem. I guess because of you I can grin and bear flying SW again on my return flight in a week.





Until then be well.



Who knows when the next post will be.

I'm having too much fun with the fam and watching this super star (aka my sis) play soccer. She's the goalie if you can't tell.

Oh yes--and you were all right on the three guys in the picture. It was Eric and my two nephews who were too busy playing to stop to pose. ;) Just kidding. We love you guys!

And then there were THREE

Eric's wonderful sister/photographer took this fam pic of the whole gang in Cali. Guess who was photoshopped in? There are 3.

Naked Babies are Cute

It's the little things . . . such as an inflatable whale-shaped pool.

Thigh rolls are great for modesty sake.

And SUNSHINE couldn't be sweeter.

Here's to the end of Summer!

Guess Who?

Guess who's crawling and standing now?

Yep . . . the little munchkin Si Si.

"What? 8 months?" You say.

"No. At Seven" I respond with pride but stress in my voice.

And yesterday she let go and stood "freestyle" by herself.

She is 8 months now.

You are NOT supposed to grow up!

We LOVe YOU Sis!

(p.s. Sorry about the blurriness. The "softness" around aforementioned subject is due to older sister's eager finger to touch the camera lens. We did not mean to take a "glamour shot" of our 8 month old). J

The Best

My husband is THE BEST.
Seriously.
We went camping on Friday.
With the kids.
2 years old and Zero.
Wow!
I felt brave.

He hates camping.
But he NEVER complained. Not one word.
I was the one jumping and screaming when hundreds of Huge Daddy Long Legs were all over our tent and I'd accidentally touch one.

Ok . . . I may be exaggerating a little.

But still . . . there were at least 10.

Eric said so himself.

As a side note:
Bella loves to husk corn.
I hate it.
Husk away my child. Husk away. ;D


And Bresk - -
If you are reading this. I was thinking of posting the picture here of you and Eric when you did a face mask at Liberty Square. Perhaps it would cheer you up.
But for now I will just remind you of it.
And maybe you will still laugh.
One of those classic throw your head back and laugh laughs that I so love about you.
Buck up little camper.
(you know I dared to camp with two small children because of you don't you?)
You are an inspiration.

Love
Your Friend

Cambria

Doesn't that picture just make you start salivating?

Ok . . . not literally--but metaphorically. I have that feeling of anticipation and excitement and longing just to be there:

Cambria

For me Cambria holds many memories. Not as many as some. But enough.
That is where Eric first took me to "meet the fam" (besides our short stop in Fresno to "meet the bro"). That's where we started talking more seriously about "I Love You" and "marriage" and all that scary stuff.
We played card games and watched fireworks and ate salmon. Mmmh!
I sat on the beach there in my cute prego swimsuit with a little basketball that was Bella in my belly.
And now--by myself--I decided to try my hand at it with both girls on my hip to again visit "the fam" and share this special place with them.

SO . . . How did they like it?!!

See for yourself:

Bella and Grandpa

Aunt Stacey and adventurers

Friend Hannah

S and Grandma

and cool babysitter cousin C

Grandpa time at "the Grill"

Lovin the beach: In the SUN!! And the Clouds!!!

Uncle "Teve"


Lookin for moonstones

Couldn't be happier

Beautiful beach and beautiful Aunts




And doesn't this face just say it all?!!!

Notice in the background this pilot sleeping . . .
YES! It was midnight on our flight home and B was Overjoyed from having an awesome week with lots of cousins; and to watch her movies and get "spicy juice" (i.e. soda pop) as a special treat on the plane.


While THIS girl was supposed to be sleeping:

Or NOT!

The End.