Well, so far so good. Kate was up in the middle of the night coughing so I gave her some Tylenol. She asked for her binkys and I explained the Binky Fairy had taken them for the new babies and left her a surprise which she could have tomorrow (as I had not planned this, I needed time to run out to get something. LOL) She seemed okay with this and went back to sleep. This morning the first words out of Molly's mouth "Binkys?!" I explained the whole Binky Fairy deal. She burst into tears but after a bit seemed to come to some kind of understanding. Ryan was even a bit upset. "The Binky Fairy?! Why did she take the girls' binkys? How'd she get in? And where's my surprise from the Binky Fairy?" Good grief my kids know how to milk it.
So anyway, they all went to school. The girls shed a few tears at drop off and cried for their binkys a bit. (I had let them have them at drop off in the very beginning of school to help with the transition but they hadn't taken them to school in quite some time.) I left to do some errands and waited for a phone call but they must have calmed down as I did not get one.
So I did my errands and had lunch with my mom. I even made the Binky Fairy pit stop. At 1 PM I picked the gang up and everyone was all smiles. Whew! I had their surprises in the car waiting. For Ryan, some new Cars, for Molly a new baby and for Kate a Fur Real Puppy. Happy kids all around.
Or so I thought...
Kate's puppy came with a little red bottle. Don't ya know I have been hearing Molly screaming about that dang bottle for the past two hours and how she WANTS it.
MUST.HAVE.IT. I tried to give her other bottles. No dice. I suggested she could take a turn and give it back. No dice. Molly is just like her mother who every Christmas was always jealous of a certain sister's present and figured out some way to con said sister into "trading".
Some day I hope Molly's strong will, determination and drive will take her far. In the meantime, she wears me out!
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
Laughter is the best medicine
It is. I use it daily. I need to laugh, otherwise I might just end up in the funny farm. This is the latest to render me snorting.....
Dare I say it?
I think I broke the girls of their binky habit tonight ala "mean mommy way".
As some of you may know, we have been trying to transition to big girl beds. Gamma got them for the girls last week. They were SO excited. SO excited they could not sleep. Instead they found all the fun things to do in their room that they'd been missing out on while trapped in their cribs. Molly had loads of fun trying to put "butt cream" on her doll's heiney, that is until Mommy foiled that plan. Molly also had fun scaling the hutch to reach the Longaberger baskets and princess crowns all the way at the tippy top. (See, I told Dad and Kevin we had to secure the hutch to the wall.) Another time, Molly had fun busting down the gate in their doorway. See a trend here? Molly, Molly, Molly. But really I think it's Kate the InstaKator, I mean instigator. I overheard her saying, "Do it Molly, do it!" And "Uh oh, here comes Mommy." To what she was egging Molly on to do, I am not sure. Then another time, I found them on the other side of the gate, Molly crouched down in a fit of giggles while Kate was standing on her back trying to climb back over.
So needless to say, the girls have not been getting much sleep lately and to say they have been grumpy is a mild understatement. And grumpy kids definitely equals a grumpy Mommy. So I've had them back in their cribs a bit. Tonight, Kevin thought we should try the beds again. Yeah okay. So we told the girls, no getting out of your beds. Show us how you can be big girls and stay in your beds. "We pwomise!" So we tucked them in and sure enough not two minutes later, gales of laughter and scampering around the round. This is where the mean mommy comes in. We put them back in their cribs with lots of protest. Too much protest. So I did the unthinkable, I put the binkys in time out. And you know what, it worked. They settled down, albeit in their cribs, and went to sleep. Can I actually hope that's the end of the binkys? Guess what girls, you are so big now the Binky Fairy came and took the binkys for some new babies. Whaddya think?!
I'll keep ya posted.
My Ryan boy is getting to be such a big boy. We had a nice afternoon of working on homework, playing Candyland and decorating some ornaments with puffy paint. He told me tonight he had the best day ever today. Awwwww! Makes my heart melt.
The kids got letters from Santa the other day. Ryan was especially excited. I read him the letter and it mentioned how Santa may not have time to write everyone but to be sure to tell Erik he would be stopping by his house as well to which Ryan exclaimed, "How does Santa know about my best friend?"
You better watch out
You better not cry
Better not pout I'm telling you why
Santa Claus is coming to town
He's making a list
And checking it twice;
Gonna find out
Who's naughty and nice
Santa Claus is coming to town
He sees you when you're sleeping
He knows when you're awake
He knows if you've been bad or good
So be good for goodness sake!
O! You better watch out!
You better not cry
Better not pout I'm telling you why
Santa Claus is coming to town
Santa Claus is coming to town
As some of you may know, we have been trying to transition to big girl beds. Gamma got them for the girls last week. They were SO excited. SO excited they could not sleep. Instead they found all the fun things to do in their room that they'd been missing out on while trapped in their cribs. Molly had loads of fun trying to put "butt cream" on her doll's heiney, that is until Mommy foiled that plan. Molly also had fun scaling the hutch to reach the Longaberger baskets and princess crowns all the way at the tippy top. (See, I told Dad and Kevin we had to secure the hutch to the wall.) Another time, Molly had fun busting down the gate in their doorway. See a trend here? Molly, Molly, Molly. But really I think it's Kate the InstaKator, I mean instigator. I overheard her saying, "Do it Molly, do it!" And "Uh oh, here comes Mommy." To what she was egging Molly on to do, I am not sure. Then another time, I found them on the other side of the gate, Molly crouched down in a fit of giggles while Kate was standing on her back trying to climb back over.
So needless to say, the girls have not been getting much sleep lately and to say they have been grumpy is a mild understatement. And grumpy kids definitely equals a grumpy Mommy. So I've had them back in their cribs a bit. Tonight, Kevin thought we should try the beds again. Yeah okay. So we told the girls, no getting out of your beds. Show us how you can be big girls and stay in your beds. "We pwomise!" So we tucked them in and sure enough not two minutes later, gales of laughter and scampering around the round. This is where the mean mommy comes in. We put them back in their cribs with lots of protest. Too much protest. So I did the unthinkable, I put the binkys in time out. And you know what, it worked. They settled down, albeit in their cribs, and went to sleep. Can I actually hope that's the end of the binkys? Guess what girls, you are so big now the Binky Fairy came and took the binkys for some new babies. Whaddya think?!
I'll keep ya posted.
My Ryan boy is getting to be such a big boy. We had a nice afternoon of working on homework, playing Candyland and decorating some ornaments with puffy paint. He told me tonight he had the best day ever today. Awwwww! Makes my heart melt.
The kids got letters from Santa the other day. Ryan was especially excited. I read him the letter and it mentioned how Santa may not have time to write everyone but to be sure to tell Erik he would be stopping by his house as well to which Ryan exclaimed, "How does Santa know about my best friend?"
You better watch out
You better not cry
Better not pout I'm telling you why
Santa Claus is coming to town
He's making a list
And checking it twice;
Gonna find out
Who's naughty and nice
Santa Claus is coming to town
He sees you when you're sleeping
He knows when you're awake
He knows if you've been bad or good
So be good for goodness sake!
O! You better watch out!
You better not cry
Better not pout I'm telling you why
Santa Claus is coming to town
Santa Claus is coming to town
Friday, November 02, 2007
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
"Got your penis!"
Yesterday my friend Erin watched the kids while I did an interview for Welcome Neighbor. (Trying to carry on a conversation let alone an intelligent conversation with three kids running around doesn't really work.) So last night Erin and I were out "Spaghetti Dinner" shopping and she told me of a Ryan funny. First the good news..... Apparently all the kids played very nicely together. Now for the funny..... Ryan was playing chase and at one point grabbed at Molly's diaper area proclaiming, "Got your penis!" "Got your penis!" Say what?!
Erin suggested maybe we should teach Ryan about the difference between boys and girls. I was laughing so hard I was crying. Everytime I even think "Got your penis!" I start to laugh.
Yes, we have taught Ryan the difference between boys and girls. Yes, we've talked about Molly and Kate having vaginas, "'ginas" as they call them. I also assured Erin that no, we do not play any strange games in our house.
Nothing like a night out with a good girl friend and laughing about penises. :) Thanks Erin!
Oh and by the way, I got the job. I start next week.
Erin suggested maybe we should teach Ryan about the difference between boys and girls. I was laughing so hard I was crying. Everytime I even think "Got your penis!" I start to laugh.
Yes, we have taught Ryan the difference between boys and girls. Yes, we've talked about Molly and Kate having vaginas, "'ginas" as they call them. I also assured Erin that no, we do not play any strange games in our house.
Nothing like a night out with a good girl friend and laughing about penises. :) Thanks Erin!
Oh and by the way, I got the job. I start next week.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
My MOMS Club is famous!
The following article was in Sunday's newspaper.....
And there was an announcment today on the local radio station. Woo hoo!
Moms' group aiming to help kids' hospital
Benefit dinner will collect money, toys for A.I. duPont
By ROBIN BROWN, The News Journal
Posted Sunday, October 28, 2007
A mothers' organization is planning its annual benefit dinner Saturday to help cheer up kids in medical crises and their families during the upcoming holidays.
Guests can bring their choice of donation for admission to the event -- $5 per person or a new toy of at least that value.
The Pike Creek MOMS Club's Benefit Spaghetti Dinner on Saturday is the latest event being listed in The News Journal's Help Us Help public service feature that includes an online database, designed to match Delawareans' holiday generosity with events and programs that help others in need.
The dinner, with a silent auction of donated goods and services, will be held 5 to 9 p.m. at Limestone Presbyterian Church, off Limestone Road (Del. 7) in the Pike Creek area.
Adults and children are invited with tickets available -- and toy donations welcome -- at the door.
Both money and toys will be given to the Nemours Foundation of the Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children in Rockland, where the toys will be distributed to young patients during the upcoming holidays, event spokeswoman Erin Lacey said. The money will help support other programs for the children.
Hospital officials ask that, because of potential allergies, all donated toys be new and latex-free. Also welcome are donations of new or gently used DVDs, music CDs, PlayStation games, Xbox and Sega Genesis games, Lacey said. Bath and body kits, youth books, makeup and other gifts suitable for teens also are needed, she said.
Delawareans are encouraged to drop off donations at the event even if they can't stay for dinner, Lacey said. Pick-up of donations also may be arranged, she said.
For more information, to reserve dinner tickets or get information about donation pick-up, call Lacey at 999-1985 or e-mail emoran74@yahoo.com. Donations for the auction also are welcomed.
In its first two years, the nonprofit Pike Creek MOMS Club benefit dinner collected nearly $2,000 that was given to the Mother-to-Mother organization to help survivors of Hurricane Katrina.
This year, the MOMS -- one of nearly a dozen such clubs in Delaware -- decided to keep the benefit closer to home.
"We chose Nemours as our charity for this dinner because we believe that children should have every chance to be happy and healthy," said Kristen Dunne, President of the Pike Creek MOMS Club. "We want the kids and families at Nemours to know our thoughts are with them and that hopefully, our donations will make a difference in their stay."
Donations of toys and games -- new in their packages, but not wrapped -- are needed for youngsters of all ages who are being treated at the renowned children's hospital, Lacey said.
For information on the MOMS Club, visit www.momsclub.org, where a link provides details on local groups statewide.
Contact robin brown at 324-2856 or rbrown@delawareonline.com.
TO GET LISTED
To be highlighted in The News Journal's Help Us Help features, nonprofit groups and community efforts may submit information for publication about benefits and donation drives -- at least two weeks before the event -- to Help Us Help, in care of The News Journal, Box 15505, Wilmington, DE 19809, help.us.help@delaware online.com or by fax to 324-5509. Required information includes the program name, sponsor, donations sought, who will be helped, drop-off sites/times, how to write/send checks, if donations are tax-deductible, event fees, donation deadline, how the needy can apply for help, the name and phone number of a contact for publication and a Web site for information/online donation if available.
HOW TO HELP
The Pike Creek MOMS Club Third Annual Benefit Spaghetti Dinner and silent auction is 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday at Limestone Presbyterian Church in Pike Creek. Admission is $5 or a new unwrapped toy. Dinner attendance is not required to drop off donations, which will benefit Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children in Rockland.
And there was an announcment today on the local radio station. Woo hoo!
Moms' group aiming to help kids' hospital
Benefit dinner will collect money, toys for A.I. duPont
By ROBIN BROWN, The News Journal
Posted Sunday, October 28, 2007
A mothers' organization is planning its annual benefit dinner Saturday to help cheer up kids in medical crises and their families during the upcoming holidays.
Guests can bring their choice of donation for admission to the event -- $5 per person or a new toy of at least that value.
The Pike Creek MOMS Club's Benefit Spaghetti Dinner on Saturday is the latest event being listed in The News Journal's Help Us Help public service feature that includes an online database, designed to match Delawareans' holiday generosity with events and programs that help others in need.
The dinner, with a silent auction of donated goods and services, will be held 5 to 9 p.m. at Limestone Presbyterian Church, off Limestone Road (Del. 7) in the Pike Creek area.
Adults and children are invited with tickets available -- and toy donations welcome -- at the door.
Both money and toys will be given to the Nemours Foundation of the Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children in Rockland, where the toys will be distributed to young patients during the upcoming holidays, event spokeswoman Erin Lacey said. The money will help support other programs for the children.
Hospital officials ask that, because of potential allergies, all donated toys be new and latex-free. Also welcome are donations of new or gently used DVDs, music CDs, PlayStation games, Xbox and Sega Genesis games, Lacey said. Bath and body kits, youth books, makeup and other gifts suitable for teens also are needed, she said.
Delawareans are encouraged to drop off donations at the event even if they can't stay for dinner, Lacey said. Pick-up of donations also may be arranged, she said.
For more information, to reserve dinner tickets or get information about donation pick-up, call Lacey at 999-1985 or e-mail emoran74@yahoo.com. Donations for the auction also are welcomed.
In its first two years, the nonprofit Pike Creek MOMS Club benefit dinner collected nearly $2,000 that was given to the Mother-to-Mother organization to help survivors of Hurricane Katrina.
This year, the MOMS -- one of nearly a dozen such clubs in Delaware -- decided to keep the benefit closer to home.
"We chose Nemours as our charity for this dinner because we believe that children should have every chance to be happy and healthy," said Kristen Dunne, President of the Pike Creek MOMS Club. "We want the kids and families at Nemours to know our thoughts are with them and that hopefully, our donations will make a difference in their stay."
Donations of toys and games -- new in their packages, but not wrapped -- are needed for youngsters of all ages who are being treated at the renowned children's hospital, Lacey said.
For information on the MOMS Club, visit www.momsclub.org, where a link provides details on local groups statewide.
Contact robin brown at 324-2856 or rbrown@delawareonline.com.
TO GET LISTED
To be highlighted in The News Journal's Help Us Help features, nonprofit groups and community efforts may submit information for publication about benefits and donation drives -- at least two weeks before the event -- to Help Us Help, in care of The News Journal, Box 15505, Wilmington, DE 19809, help.us.help@delaware online.com or by fax to 324-5509. Required information includes the program name, sponsor, donations sought, who will be helped, drop-off sites/times, how to write/send checks, if donations are tax-deductible, event fees, donation deadline, how the needy can apply for help, the name and phone number of a contact for publication and a Web site for information/online donation if available.
HOW TO HELP
The Pike Creek MOMS Club Third Annual Benefit Spaghetti Dinner and silent auction is 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday at Limestone Presbyterian Church in Pike Creek. Admission is $5 or a new unwrapped toy. Dinner attendance is not required to drop off donations, which will benefit Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children in Rockland.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Does this have me pegged or what????
Your Superpower Should Be Manipulating Fire |
 You are intense, internally driven, and passionate. Your emotions are unpredictable - and they often get the better of you. Both radiant and terrifying, people are drawn to you. At your most powerful, you feel like the world belongs to you. Why you would be a good superhero: You are obsessive enough to give it your all Your biggest problem as a superhero: Your moodiness would make it difficult to control your powers |
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
FIVE!
Ryan is five! Five! I have been a stay at home mom for five years. I know everyone says it, but where does the time go? It seems like just yesterday that I was pregnant with Ryan and now he is five! Ryan is the most handsome, sweet, loving, thoughtful little boy I know. He is the best big brother too! Ryan celebrated his birthday with a trip to Strasburg with lots of family. Mom, Dad, Molly, Kate, Gamma, Pop Pop, Aunt Gale, Aunt Hilary and Lou all went to the PA Train Museum and then took a train ride. We hit the Shady Maple for dinner and called it a day. On Sunday we had a joint party for all three kids at Moonbounce Adventures. It was a hit! The kids all had a blast and were totally pooped and asleep by 7pm.
I know I know, where are the pictures???? I am working on them. I took a ton and haven't had a chance to process them yet. I have been dealing with more medical BS. Just got my CPAP for sleep apnea and had a Thyroid Scan today. With all the goings on in my life I am waaaayyy behind on all things fun. Here's a sneak peak of "Firefighter Ryan"....
I know I know, where are the pictures???? I am working on them. I took a ton and haven't had a chance to process them yet. I have been dealing with more medical BS. Just got my CPAP for sleep apnea and had a Thyroid Scan today. With all the goings on in my life I am waaaayyy behind on all things fun. Here's a sneak peak of "Firefighter Ryan"....
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Three years
Three years ago tonight I had just given birth to my sweet little girls, Molly and Kate. In some ways it seems like three years have passed in the blink of an eye and in others it seems like the girls have been a part of my life forever. They have definitely brought me much joy and happiness. I always dreamed of having a daughter, little did I know that I would end up with two!
The girls had a great day. They hung out snuggling with Daddy in front of Caillou this morning and then the whole fam went to McD's for lunch. They were really into the birthday thing this year. They woke up saying, "Today's my birthday!" After lunch they both took a much needed nap. Gam, Pop Pop and Aunt Kiki joined us for dinner. The adults ate Pot Roast while the kids held out for cake. I actually baked a cake for the girls and it was a big hit. I took lots of pictures today so stayed tuned for those. I know I have been promising pictures for a while and I do plan to deliver. I am waaayyy tired tonight after a busy weekend. Kevin and I did the Mothers of Multiples Resale on Fri and Sat. Sat night we went on a date and today was the birthdays. Tomorrow night is a Girls Night Out. I am feeling much better lately but still tired so trying to take it easy.
The girls had a great day. They hung out snuggling with Daddy in front of Caillou this morning and then the whole fam went to McD's for lunch. They were really into the birthday thing this year. They woke up saying, "Today's my birthday!" After lunch they both took a much needed nap. Gam, Pop Pop and Aunt Kiki joined us for dinner. The adults ate Pot Roast while the kids held out for cake. I actually baked a cake for the girls and it was a big hit. I took lots of pictures today so stayed tuned for those. I know I have been promising pictures for a while and I do plan to deliver. I am waaayyy tired tonight after a busy weekend. Kevin and I did the Mothers of Multiples Resale on Fri and Sat. Sat night we went on a date and today was the birthdays. Tomorrow night is a Girls Night Out. I am feeling much better lately but still tired so trying to take it easy.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
The kids
Well after my long drawn out therapeutic post below I thought I'd better update about the kids. Surprisingly they are doing quite well. To say life in our house has been a bit chaotic lately is a huge understatement. But they are troopers and are marching along. They are all in school. Ryan is in a Pre-K class at his preschool. It is officially a kingergarten class but because of his October birthday, he will do kindergarten again next year. He loves school! Such a big change from when he started at age 3. He walked in the first day and barely uttered goodbye. He has several kids from his class last year in his class and talks about the "guys" every day when he comes home. He has stayed several time for Lunch Bunch and even had his first playdate without mommy the other day. I cannot believe how grown up he is. He is definitely the big brother and looks out for his sisters. He can be a bit crazy at times but really he is the sweetest little boy I know. I am so proud of him!
Molly and Kate are in school two days a week. The first day there was a lot of tears (both them and their classmates). Then I ended up in the hospital and it pretty much rocked their world. They were in a three's class but we ended up switching them to the two's class and they are doing much better. Kate seems to really like school and is adjusting fairly well. Molly on the other hand, not so much. When you ask her if she likes school her response is a big fat "NO! I don't like it." Now I know she is doing fine because despite all the tears at drop off her teachers are telling me it only lasts for a few minutes. She is painting and singing and dancing and playing. I let them have their binkys on Thursday to try and help with drop off. I totally know I am going to regret that but hey, whatever works. That is definitely my motto these days.
They are all eagerly awaiting their upcoming birthdays. We are having a party at a local moon bounce place. They can hardly contain their excitement. Ryan changes his mind at least daily about what kind of cake he wants. Molly wants a "Cars" cake and Kate wants an "orange" cake. I still have trouble wrapping my mind around the fact that I will be a mother to a five year old and twin three year olds.
I have some pictures of the first day of school that I need to upload and post. I will do that soon but right now I need to get to bed.
Molly and Kate are in school two days a week. The first day there was a lot of tears (both them and their classmates). Then I ended up in the hospital and it pretty much rocked their world. They were in a three's class but we ended up switching them to the two's class and they are doing much better. Kate seems to really like school and is adjusting fairly well. Molly on the other hand, not so much. When you ask her if she likes school her response is a big fat "NO! I don't like it." Now I know she is doing fine because despite all the tears at drop off her teachers are telling me it only lasts for a few minutes. She is painting and singing and dancing and playing. I let them have their binkys on Thursday to try and help with drop off. I totally know I am going to regret that but hey, whatever works. That is definitely my motto these days.
They are all eagerly awaiting their upcoming birthdays. We are having a party at a local moon bounce place. They can hardly contain their excitement. Ryan changes his mind at least daily about what kind of cake he wants. Molly wants a "Cars" cake and Kate wants an "orange" cake. I still have trouble wrapping my mind around the fact that I will be a mother to a five year old and twin three year olds.
I have some pictures of the first day of school that I need to upload and post. I will do that soon but right now I need to get to bed.
The day I lost my belly button and all the other stuff that has been keeping me from blogging
Feel free to skip this post as it's a long rambling about my health (senior citizen style aka blow by blow) and is mostly just therapeutic for me.
It all started Thursday, August 9, 2007.
The day I lost my belly button started out quite unlike any other day. I was up at 4:20 AM in order to shower and shave one last time. I had to be at the hospital at 6 AM as surgery was scheduled for 8 AM. Kevin and my mom came with me. We got there in plenty of time and did the 'ole "hurry up and wait". I was getting pretty nervous. I finally got called back and got gowned up. I got a chance to say a quick goodbye to Kev and mom. The nurse said I would likely be in surgery for 4 hours. 4?! I got really nervous then. So they got me on the stretcher and got an IV started the first try. So far so good. I remember being wheeled into the OR and the next thing I remember is being in my hospital room. Apparently I had several hernias enmeshed with the old patch and my belly button. They couldn't save my belly button so now I am the local circus freak. I was pretty distressed to learn of this. The doctor's didn't warn me about the possibility and I rather LIKED my belly button. But all had gone well so I couldn't complain too much. So Friday I got out of bed for the first time. NOT an easy task. I even got washed up and was feeling pretty good with some sweet pain meds. I slept a lot, but was up and about, even going to the bathroom. I got moved to the surgical floor as apparently there was a miscommunication and I had been admitted to the Short Stay unit. My mom and Andrea visited that evening but I don't remember much of the visit thanks to the aforementioned drugs. Around 10pm I woke up and didn't feel well. I can't remember if someone came in to do my vitals or what but I remember saying over and over "I don't feel good." I was having chest pain and shortness of breath. Someone checked my pulse ox and it was 74. I heard something about a trach and all kinds of people started flooding my room. The crash cart was wheeled in. HUH?! They gave me some nitro and got me on oxygen. Sometime around midnight they took me for a chest CT scan. I knew something was up when the Nursing Supervisor introduced himself and stayed with me during the CT scan and the trip back to my room. I was put on a heart monitor and had an EKG as well. Sometime around 4:30 AM I was taken for a VQ Scan. The nurse had told me they were calling around to see if they could get someone to come in early to do the test. I had no idea what was going on and to say my anxiety level was a bit high was an understatement. Then I had a ultrasound of my legs to check for blood clots. Each time I was taken for a test, a nurse would walk with me with the heart monitor and the portable crash cart. Once the sun was up, different doctors started coming in to see me and I was told I likely had a Pulmonary Embolism aka a blood clot in my lung. There was some debate about whether or not I did as the CT scan did not show a clot but the VQ scan showed "high probability" for one. My EKGs and an Echo were normal. In the words of one of the cardiologists that saw me, "If it looks like a duck and it quacks like a duck, then it's a duck." So they started me on Heparin and Lovenox shots. Blood thinners. Boy did those Lovenox shots hurt! I was getting two shots twice a day. I ended up being in the hospital for 8 days.
Finally I went home. Boy had I missed my family. My kids were beginning to wonder if I was ever coming home. It was a bit of an adjustment but everyone was happy that mommy was home. I had a visiting nurse out to see me for the next several weeks to check my INR (blood thinner level) and my incision. I had 70 staples from hip to hip. I started out with 2 drains but one got accidentally pulled out while in the hospital. I had follow up appts with the Plastic Surgeon, the General Surgeon, the Cardiologist, the Pulmonologist and my PCP. I was also getting my INR checked regularly. I am not an easy stick so they did finger pricks which was much easier.
The kids were really good about my not being able to pick them up. I showed them my "big boo boo" and they knew I couldn't lift them. My family and my MOMS Club friends were wonderfully supportive. We received over 21 meals from many members of the club. In addition, moms were coming to help out with the kids so Kevin could go back to work. My MOMS Club has been such an awesome support over the past 4+ years. I don't know how I'd have survived this journey called "life" with out all my buds. Pop Pop has even been changing stinky diapers since I've been out of commission. My mom has been my rock. Telling me over and over how much this sucks but giving me the faith and courage to know that "this too shall pass." Kevin has been Super Dad/Husband! He has been keeping the house clean, doing dishes, doing laundry, grocery shopping, grass cutting, bathing, dressing, hugging, disciplining, working and that's only some of what he's been up to. The boy deserves a medal!
So life was slowly getting back to normal. Ryan was calming down. (He got quite upset the first time I left the house for a doctor's appt. Apparently he thought I wasn't coming back.) The girls were getting used to various and assorted diaper changers and I was feeling better and stronger. I was showering everyday and had even shaved my legs with an electric shaver courtesy of BFF, Kelly. Then Ryan got Strep. And Molly got Strep. Then I started to feel poorly. I went to a Mothers of Multiples meeting on Sept 11th and when I came home, I really didn't feel good. I called my parents and they strongly suggested I go to the ER. So mom came and got me and off we went. I HATE the ER. I wasn't sure it was necessary. They took me right back, did an EKG and wanted to get an IV so I could get another Chest CT Scan. The IV was not so easy this time. Finally they got it and I had the scan. PNEUMONIA! Again! I had been treated for pneumonia right after my surgery too. At least it wasn't another PE which was a big concern. So I was admitted again. I spent the night in the ER on a most uncomfortable stretcher and finally got into a room at 10:30 AM. Not a fun night. So they were giving me 3 different IV antibiotics. They had the Pulmonologist come back to see me and an Infectious Disease doctor. Turns out I had pneumonia in the Right Lower Lobe. I spent 6 days, yes, 6 days in the hospital. By Monday I was begging to be sent home. When I was finally discharged, they called for a wheelchair to take me out. It took too long and I ended up walking out on my own because I couldn't stand to be there another minute. Oh and right before I left one of the doctor's told me I had some nodules on my thyroid. When I asked what the hell that could be, her answer, "Could be a cyst, could be cancer, could be nothing." Thanks! She obviously didn't realize she was telling this to woman who suffers major anxiety over medical stuff. So I have to follow up with a thyroid ultrasound and some blood work. More fun. So I am home now. Trying to get better and stay out of the hospital. I have been coughing like crazy and regularly peeing my pants. Thank god for Depends! (Yes, after three kids I have no bladder control but no thanks, I'll skip any surgery to fix it.) I saw the Pulmonologist and had a follow up Chest CT Scan. I have to have a sleep study to determine if I have sleep apnea. I need to see a Gastroenterologist to check out why I am having such horrible heart burn. But they don't want to do this while I am on blood thinners. And depending on my thyroid blood work I may need to see an Endocrinologist. Cha ching! I am sure my insurance company is hating me right about now. I feel like I am 76 instead of 36 and am marveling at the fact that up until this surgery, I was pretty healthy. I was a mom needing to lose the baby weight (and then some) but overall I was fine. Yep, so that's my life lately in a nutshell. All of my friends are amazed at all of the medical stuff this family has endured over the past several years. Apparently I need to write a book and profit from this shit.
Hmmm, this might be a good start.....
It all started Thursday, August 9, 2007.
The day I lost my belly button started out quite unlike any other day. I was up at 4:20 AM in order to shower and shave one last time. I had to be at the hospital at 6 AM as surgery was scheduled for 8 AM. Kevin and my mom came with me. We got there in plenty of time and did the 'ole "hurry up and wait". I was getting pretty nervous. I finally got called back and got gowned up. I got a chance to say a quick goodbye to Kev and mom. The nurse said I would likely be in surgery for 4 hours. 4?! I got really nervous then. So they got me on the stretcher and got an IV started the first try. So far so good. I remember being wheeled into the OR and the next thing I remember is being in my hospital room. Apparently I had several hernias enmeshed with the old patch and my belly button. They couldn't save my belly button so now I am the local circus freak. I was pretty distressed to learn of this. The doctor's didn't warn me about the possibility and I rather LIKED my belly button. But all had gone well so I couldn't complain too much. So Friday I got out of bed for the first time. NOT an easy task. I even got washed up and was feeling pretty good with some sweet pain meds. I slept a lot, but was up and about, even going to the bathroom. I got moved to the surgical floor as apparently there was a miscommunication and I had been admitted to the Short Stay unit. My mom and Andrea visited that evening but I don't remember much of the visit thanks to the aforementioned drugs. Around 10pm I woke up and didn't feel well. I can't remember if someone came in to do my vitals or what but I remember saying over and over "I don't feel good." I was having chest pain and shortness of breath. Someone checked my pulse ox and it was 74. I heard something about a trach and all kinds of people started flooding my room. The crash cart was wheeled in. HUH?! They gave me some nitro and got me on oxygen. Sometime around midnight they took me for a chest CT scan. I knew something was up when the Nursing Supervisor introduced himself and stayed with me during the CT scan and the trip back to my room. I was put on a heart monitor and had an EKG as well. Sometime around 4:30 AM I was taken for a VQ Scan. The nurse had told me they were calling around to see if they could get someone to come in early to do the test. I had no idea what was going on and to say my anxiety level was a bit high was an understatement. Then I had a ultrasound of my legs to check for blood clots. Each time I was taken for a test, a nurse would walk with me with the heart monitor and the portable crash cart. Once the sun was up, different doctors started coming in to see me and I was told I likely had a Pulmonary Embolism aka a blood clot in my lung. There was some debate about whether or not I did as the CT scan did not show a clot but the VQ scan showed "high probability" for one. My EKGs and an Echo were normal. In the words of one of the cardiologists that saw me, "If it looks like a duck and it quacks like a duck, then it's a duck." So they started me on Heparin and Lovenox shots. Blood thinners. Boy did those Lovenox shots hurt! I was getting two shots twice a day. I ended up being in the hospital for 8 days.
Finally I went home. Boy had I missed my family. My kids were beginning to wonder if I was ever coming home. It was a bit of an adjustment but everyone was happy that mommy was home. I had a visiting nurse out to see me for the next several weeks to check my INR (blood thinner level) and my incision. I had 70 staples from hip to hip. I started out with 2 drains but one got accidentally pulled out while in the hospital. I had follow up appts with the Plastic Surgeon, the General Surgeon, the Cardiologist, the Pulmonologist and my PCP. I was also getting my INR checked regularly. I am not an easy stick so they did finger pricks which was much easier.
The kids were really good about my not being able to pick them up. I showed them my "big boo boo" and they knew I couldn't lift them. My family and my MOMS Club friends were wonderfully supportive. We received over 21 meals from many members of the club. In addition, moms were coming to help out with the kids so Kevin could go back to work. My MOMS Club has been such an awesome support over the past 4+ years. I don't know how I'd have survived this journey called "life" with out all my buds. Pop Pop has even been changing stinky diapers since I've been out of commission. My mom has been my rock. Telling me over and over how much this sucks but giving me the faith and courage to know that "this too shall pass." Kevin has been Super Dad/Husband! He has been keeping the house clean, doing dishes, doing laundry, grocery shopping, grass cutting, bathing, dressing, hugging, disciplining, working and that's only some of what he's been up to. The boy deserves a medal!
So life was slowly getting back to normal. Ryan was calming down. (He got quite upset the first time I left the house for a doctor's appt. Apparently he thought I wasn't coming back.) The girls were getting used to various and assorted diaper changers and I was feeling better and stronger. I was showering everyday and had even shaved my legs with an electric shaver courtesy of BFF, Kelly. Then Ryan got Strep. And Molly got Strep. Then I started to feel poorly. I went to a Mothers of Multiples meeting on Sept 11th and when I came home, I really didn't feel good. I called my parents and they strongly suggested I go to the ER. So mom came and got me and off we went. I HATE the ER. I wasn't sure it was necessary. They took me right back, did an EKG and wanted to get an IV so I could get another Chest CT Scan. The IV was not so easy this time. Finally they got it and I had the scan. PNEUMONIA! Again! I had been treated for pneumonia right after my surgery too. At least it wasn't another PE which was a big concern. So I was admitted again. I spent the night in the ER on a most uncomfortable stretcher and finally got into a room at 10:30 AM. Not a fun night. So they were giving me 3 different IV antibiotics. They had the Pulmonologist come back to see me and an Infectious Disease doctor. Turns out I had pneumonia in the Right Lower Lobe. I spent 6 days, yes, 6 days in the hospital. By Monday I was begging to be sent home. When I was finally discharged, they called for a wheelchair to take me out. It took too long and I ended up walking out on my own because I couldn't stand to be there another minute. Oh and right before I left one of the doctor's told me I had some nodules on my thyroid. When I asked what the hell that could be, her answer, "Could be a cyst, could be cancer, could be nothing." Thanks! She obviously didn't realize she was telling this to woman who suffers major anxiety over medical stuff. So I have to follow up with a thyroid ultrasound and some blood work. More fun. So I am home now. Trying to get better and stay out of the hospital. I have been coughing like crazy and regularly peeing my pants. Thank god for Depends! (Yes, after three kids I have no bladder control but no thanks, I'll skip any surgery to fix it.) I saw the Pulmonologist and had a follow up Chest CT Scan. I have to have a sleep study to determine if I have sleep apnea. I need to see a Gastroenterologist to check out why I am having such horrible heart burn. But they don't want to do this while I am on blood thinners. And depending on my thyroid blood work I may need to see an Endocrinologist. Cha ching! I am sure my insurance company is hating me right about now. I feel like I am 76 instead of 36 and am marveling at the fact that up until this surgery, I was pretty healthy. I was a mom needing to lose the baby weight (and then some) but overall I was fine. Yep, so that's my life lately in a nutshell. All of my friends are amazed at all of the medical stuff this family has endured over the past several years. Apparently I need to write a book and profit from this shit.
Hmmm, this might be a good start.....
Friday, August 03, 2007
Magic monster spray, The Mommy Store and other things I want to remember
As much as I complain about my kids driving me crazy all the time, they really are just the cutest kids ever!
The girls have been afraid of "monsters" lately. I remember Ryan going through this phase so we've had to break out the "Magic Monster Spray" aka Febreeze. A few quick squirts and no more monsters. Of course, Ryan needs in on the action just because. They have really fresh smelling rooms now. :)
There have been occasions when Ryan is not so happy with me that he says he wants to go to the "Mommy Store" to get a new mommy. The first time he said that I was totally taken aback. Now it's morphed into something cuter. He has at times asked me about where he was at and usually it's been before he was born, like my wedding day. He sees the pictures and asks, "Where was I?" I had to really stop and think about this. I finally settled on "The Baby Store". He was there with all the other babies waiting for his mommy to come and pick him out. I came to the store and picked him because he was the cutest and I loved him. He gets a big grin on his face. Then he says he went to the Mommy Store and picked me because he loved me. Makes me smile every time I think about it.
Molly has turned into quite the little mommy. She is obsessed with babies. She sees them and wants to hold them or push their stroller. She has two dolls that MUST go everywhere she goes. This morning Kevin went in to get them and Molly was naked. She had put her pj's on her baby because "baby was cold".
Kate has finally mastered the art of jumping. She has been trying for a while. And while she was kind of jumping it really wasn't. Now she can climb the chairs and stairs just like R&M and JUMP! She is so darn proud of herself. Kate refers to herself as "The Little One". She is such a pipsqueak but she definitely makes up for her small size with attitude.
I am working on getting all the things crossed off my TO DO list before next Thursday. I have to be at the hospital at 6AM. Surgery is at 8AM. I will be SO glad when it's over. My MOMS Club friends have once again been so good to me. I received an email today with a schedule of meals that will be delivered over the next few weeks. I really don't know what I would have done without them these past 3 years.
The girls have been afraid of "monsters" lately. I remember Ryan going through this phase so we've had to break out the "Magic Monster Spray" aka Febreeze. A few quick squirts and no more monsters. Of course, Ryan needs in on the action just because. They have really fresh smelling rooms now. :)
There have been occasions when Ryan is not so happy with me that he says he wants to go to the "Mommy Store" to get a new mommy. The first time he said that I was totally taken aback. Now it's morphed into something cuter. He has at times asked me about where he was at and usually it's been before he was born, like my wedding day. He sees the pictures and asks, "Where was I?" I had to really stop and think about this. I finally settled on "The Baby Store". He was there with all the other babies waiting for his mommy to come and pick him out. I came to the store and picked him because he was the cutest and I loved him. He gets a big grin on his face. Then he says he went to the Mommy Store and picked me because he loved me. Makes me smile every time I think about it.
Molly has turned into quite the little mommy. She is obsessed with babies. She sees them and wants to hold them or push their stroller. She has two dolls that MUST go everywhere she goes. This morning Kevin went in to get them and Molly was naked. She had put her pj's on her baby because "baby was cold".
Kate has finally mastered the art of jumping. She has been trying for a while. And while she was kind of jumping it really wasn't. Now she can climb the chairs and stairs just like R&M and JUMP! She is so darn proud of herself. Kate refers to herself as "The Little One". She is such a pipsqueak but she definitely makes up for her small size with attitude.
I am working on getting all the things crossed off my TO DO list before next Thursday. I have to be at the hospital at 6AM. Surgery is at 8AM. I will be SO glad when it's over. My MOMS Club friends have once again been so good to me. I received an email today with a schedule of meals that will be delivered over the next few weeks. I really don't know what I would have done without them these past 3 years.
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Same old, same old
For some reason, I alway fall behind with this blog. Hmmm....
I cannot believe August is right around the corner. Seems like just yesterday we were filling up the mini van and the car and heading to the shore. We spent the week before Father's Day in Cape May. Needless to say traveling with three kiddos is always an adventure. Within the first 10 minutes in the house, Kate fell and smashed her head into a chair. She developed a huge lump and quite the bruise. Kinda like our last shore trip in June '05 when Molly fell within 30 minutes of our arrival and did pretty much the same thing. We had a fun week especially dodging the nasty seagulls at the beach. Apparently I provided some great entertainment when I tossed an order of fries into the air when I felt the flying rats were about to dive bomb me. I don't think I'll live that one down anytime soon. Ryan LOVED the water. The girls were scared to death of it. Which in truth was just fine. They stuck right by us and played in the sand. Aunt Hil became a water slave, trapsing to the ocean to fill up buckets over and over and over again. Thanks Aunt Hil. Gam, Pop Pop and Aunt Kiki (aka Kelly) came alonf too. It was def nice to have some helping hands with the kids. Kevin and I even got to sneak away for a date at our favorite spot, The Lobster House.
For the 4th of July, Kevin was working so I took the kiddos to the parade with Gam and Pop Pop. The highlight, the police horses pooping right as they went by. The kids are still talking about that. "Horses poop! Stinky!"
Ryan is such a big boy now he even watched fireworks! In the rain to boot. I can't believe how quickly he is growing up.
We've been keeping busy with MOMS Club and a "homemade" camp with our playgroup friends. We've been taking turns hosting and planning fun activies to keep everyone learning over the summer. We hosted train camp last week. We ended the week with a trip to one of Ryan's favorite spots, The Pennsylvania Train Museum.
Ryan just finished a week of Vacation Bible School which he loved. He did so well! He got a teeny bit teary the first two days but he stayed the whole time and had fun. Today he told me he really liked it and wanted to go back every summer. Yay Ryan!
I am getting ready for hernia repair #3. The plan is to do some major reconstructing this time. I will probably be in the hospital for several days and then will be restricted from lifting for 12 weeks. I am a bit overwhelmed and stressed by this. As anyone who knows me should know, I am a control freak and don't do so well asking for help. I've joked to my girlfriends that this is God's way of sending me yet another message that I am not in control and I'd better chill. Easier said than done for me. Anyway, I've been needing a good vaca.
I am trying to wrap up some MOMS Club things, get haircuts for me and the kids, clean my house, make phone calls and generally get my To Do list done. Today I took the girls to Kmart and they got back packs for school. Yes, school. They will start preschool two days a week in the fall. Ryan will be in pre-K five days a week. When did they get so big????
I cannot believe August is right around the corner. Seems like just yesterday we were filling up the mini van and the car and heading to the shore. We spent the week before Father's Day in Cape May. Needless to say traveling with three kiddos is always an adventure. Within the first 10 minutes in the house, Kate fell and smashed her head into a chair. She developed a huge lump and quite the bruise. Kinda like our last shore trip in June '05 when Molly fell within 30 minutes of our arrival and did pretty much the same thing. We had a fun week especially dodging the nasty seagulls at the beach. Apparently I provided some great entertainment when I tossed an order of fries into the air when I felt the flying rats were about to dive bomb me. I don't think I'll live that one down anytime soon. Ryan LOVED the water. The girls were scared to death of it. Which in truth was just fine. They stuck right by us and played in the sand. Aunt Hil became a water slave, trapsing to the ocean to fill up buckets over and over and over again. Thanks Aunt Hil. Gam, Pop Pop and Aunt Kiki (aka Kelly) came alonf too. It was def nice to have some helping hands with the kids. Kevin and I even got to sneak away for a date at our favorite spot, The Lobster House.
For the 4th of July, Kevin was working so I took the kiddos to the parade with Gam and Pop Pop. The highlight, the police horses pooping right as they went by. The kids are still talking about that. "Horses poop! Stinky!"
Ryan is such a big boy now he even watched fireworks! In the rain to boot. I can't believe how quickly he is growing up.
We've been keeping busy with MOMS Club and a "homemade" camp with our playgroup friends. We've been taking turns hosting and planning fun activies to keep everyone learning over the summer. We hosted train camp last week. We ended the week with a trip to one of Ryan's favorite spots, The Pennsylvania Train Museum.
Ryan just finished a week of Vacation Bible School which he loved. He did so well! He got a teeny bit teary the first two days but he stayed the whole time and had fun. Today he told me he really liked it and wanted to go back every summer. Yay Ryan!
I am getting ready for hernia repair #3. The plan is to do some major reconstructing this time. I will probably be in the hospital for several days and then will be restricted from lifting for 12 weeks. I am a bit overwhelmed and stressed by this. As anyone who knows me should know, I am a control freak and don't do so well asking for help. I've joked to my girlfriends that this is God's way of sending me yet another message that I am not in control and I'd better chill. Easier said than done for me. Anyway, I've been needing a good vaca.
I am trying to wrap up some MOMS Club things, get haircuts for me and the kids, clean my house, make phone calls and generally get my To Do list done. Today I took the girls to Kmart and they got back packs for school. Yes, school. They will start preschool two days a week in the fall. Ryan will be in pre-K five days a week. When did they get so big????
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Catching up with pictures
Molly doing what she does best...running.
(This reminds me of the opening credits to Little House on the Prairie. LOL)
A sisterly moment
Cheese!
Bored with Mother's Day Brunch
Aunt Hil and Molly
Kate
More running Molly
She did hold still for a while to play in water!
"I do it myself!"
Crocs on the wrong feet
Gift for Gam for Mother's Day
Kate and Gam at Hershey Park
Ryan getting his picture taken with a "character"!
Pooped but happy at the end of the day.
Ryan jumping
Arriving at Hershey Park
Sibling squabble!
Molly's hand did make contact.
Molly in time out.
HUGS!
Storytime
Self portrait
I love feet pictures!
Pooped but happy at the end of the day.
Ryan jumping
Arriving at Hershey Park
Sibling squabble!
Molly's hand did make contact.
Molly in time out.
HUGS!
Storytime
Self portrait(Really just bored waiting for Ryan to get out of school.)
Molly and Kate LOVE babies. 
Molly's pouty face
And happy face
So handsome
Molly and Kate LOVE babies. They were even allowed to hold a real live one!
Molly's pouty face
And happy face
So handsome
I love feet pictures!
Most of these pictures were taken with my old lens. Boy, does the new lens make a difference.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
The funniest thing ever!
I am laughing so hard I almost peed my pants. Click here and here to see.
I promised some graduation pictures and I do plan to deliver. Just one small glitch. I can't find the software cd needed to upload the video from my camcorder. I'm working on it.
Kids are in bed after a busy day. Kevin worked OT. Our a/c is broken and it was HOT! So I took the kiddos out to play in the hose, which they loved! Tonight we headed to Gam and Poppop's for some coolness. The kids had Shrek Happy Meals and got yet another Shrek baby. Then we went out for ice cream. Ryan had chocolate everywhere! Molly and Kate both dropped their cones. Uh oh. But all in all I think they had a fun day.
I did add some more photos to my Flickr account just in case you want to take a peek.
Tomorrow we are taking Ryan to see the Shrek movie. It's just for "big" boys.
I promised some graduation pictures and I do plan to deliver. Just one small glitch. I can't find the software cd needed to upload the video from my camcorder. I'm working on it.
Kids are in bed after a busy day. Kevin worked OT. Our a/c is broken and it was HOT! So I took the kiddos out to play in the hose, which they loved! Tonight we headed to Gam and Poppop's for some coolness. The kids had Shrek Happy Meals and got yet another Shrek baby. Then we went out for ice cream. Ryan had chocolate everywhere! Molly and Kate both dropped their cones. Uh oh. But all in all I think they had a fun day.
I did add some more photos to my Flickr account just in case you want to take a peek.
Tomorrow we are taking Ryan to see the Shrek movie. It's just for "big" boys.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Slacking again
Yep, I've been slacking on the blog. Life is crazy and I get lazy. Had a very nice Mother's Day. Aunt Hil was home. Went to a delish brunch at Winterthur. Mimosas and Eggs Benedict. What more could I ask for? I got a gift certficate for a mani and pedi, a beautiful Belleek bowl and best of all, a new lens for my camera! I've been trying it out yesterday and today. Check out my flickr site for new pics.
Today was Ryan's last day of school. He has his Graduation tomorrow night. Check back for some more pics.
Night owl here signing off.
Today was Ryan's last day of school. He has his Graduation tomorrow night. Check back for some more pics.
Night owl here signing off.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
"Haircuts by Ryan"
No, it's not the name of a swanky new salon in town. It's what happens when mommy sits near a certain 4 yr old with scissors. Yep. He cut my hair. My bangs more specifically. Short. Super short. I was trying to be a good mommy and let him practice his fine motor skills. Somehow my bangs got in the way and a nice tuft of hair fell on the table.
Kevin says it's not really noticeable. Thanks dear.
Oh the joys of motherhood!
Kevin says it's not really noticeable. Thanks dear.
Oh the joys of motherhood!
Easter Sunday
It was a chilly day but the kids didn't mind the cold at all while hunting for eggs...
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