4 and 1/2 more...

months that is.  Why is it that 4 and 1/2 sounds so much shorter than 5 months away?  For whatever the reason (probably cause no one is currently sick) I am feeling good about life today.

L woke me up the other morning with a smile.  She told me that she had slept wonderfully because of her dreams.  She was dreaming of when daddy gets home!  That was a beautiful way to greet the day!

The next morning I awoke to giggles.  Beastie was giving L her kisses and she was giggling from the joy of her kitty kisses.  I am so blessed to have 3 amazing kiddos!

Not too much is going on here.  With the web page being updated frequently, I don't have much to tell you on here.  I am just grateful for my husband who chose me!  I am grateful for my kids and the whole rest of our family.  I am grateful for friends and that our apartment didn't flood very much during the typhoon.  Don't get me wrong though...there are tough days.

One day in particular a couple of weeks ago I was giving the kids baths (which are far and few between because have you ever bathed 3 kids by yourself?)  So I decided to condense and give all the kids a bath at the same time.  HUGE mistake.  By the end Caleb had cracked chunks out of his two front teeth and was screaming bloody murder at the same moment in which L got soap in her eyes and proceeded to scream bloody murder.  Then Connor chose that moment to flip one wash cloth in each hand as fast as he could flinging water ALL over me, his siblings and the bathroom.  I yelled, "This is why there are supposed to be two parents!" as I attempted to comfort Caleb, look for his teeth pieces and wash L's eyes out who also needed comforting.  This is not for the faint of heart!

I am so blessed with the kids God has blessed us with and I am humbled by the fact that M chose me to be the one who he put faith for his family in.  Not the spiritual faith, but faith that I can keep the home going, the kids happy and take care of him anyway in which he needs from afar.  I love you M!

I know my mother thinks I am insane to have brought a cat into our home...and she is probably not the only one.  Did I really need another creature to clean up after?  How much puke and poop do I really want to be spend my time cleaning up?  However, if you were here and had seen the response of the kids to the cat in the last week, you would know instantly why the kids needed a cat!  First, this is the best cat we could have ever prayed for!  He is sweet and gentle!  He doesn't tear up furniture.  He only meows when one of the kids gets too close (and by too close, I mean twice I have gotten up to respond to the pitiful meowing and Caleb is sitting on top of the cat smiling).  He has not once pulled out his claws, scratched a kid, hissed or been mean!  I am spending 90% of my time trying to protect the cat from the kids, but he is so gentle.  L has been so sweet and gentle since the cat came home.  She is more respectful and tries to protect the cat as much as a 3 year old can.  Connor babbles all day now, mostly about the cat.  He smiles and loves interacting with Beastie.  If someone new comes into the house, he is fine interacting with the new person because they can play with the cat together.  Caleb loves to "tell" me stories about the cat.  He is constantly gesturing towards the cat and talking up a storm.  He tells me all about what the cat is doing.  This was the best decision for the kids!!!  Hopefully the cat likes us as much as we love him.  I suspect he does because I went to bed last night and while checking on L, the cat was curled right against her fast asleep.  I think Beastie's foster mama made a purfect match.  (Sorry, couldn't resist.).

Time to sing off as Beastie is trying to help me type.

Developmental Delay

An update on my little men...

Connor is being identified as developmentally delayed.  For those who ask, this does not mean he is retarded.  He has some areas where he is delayed due to being a preemie, a twin, a boy, having an older sister who "helps" and it looks like he has some sensory integration problems.  Which according to medical dictionary means:

Definition

Sensory integration disorder or dysfunction (SID) is a neurological disorder that results from the brain's inability to integrate certain information received from the body's five basic sensory systems. These sensory systems are responsible for detecting sights, sounds, smell, tastes, temperatures, pain, and the position and movements of the body. The brain then forms a combined picture of this information in order for the body to make sense of its surroundings and react to them appropriately. The ongoing relationship between behavior and brain functioning is called sensory integration (SI), a theory that was first pioneered by A. Jean Ayres, Ph.D., OTR in the 1960s.

He has some language delays which contributes to the biting and screeching that he uses instead of words and he has some fine motor (think small muscle) delays.  He is also as stubborn as a mule, he wants to do what he wants to do and everyone else better leave him alone.  He also appears to have some perfectionist tendencies...so he refuses to complete activities until he can do them perfectly...which makes him appear to be more delayed than he really is.  All these separate issues combine to what we call developmentally delayed.

There is no doubt in my mind that he will catch up and probably by the age of 3 will no longer need any services at all which is wonderful.  25 years ago he would have not even been diagnosed with anything other than a being little quirky. 

Because the sensory issues, language delay and behaviors (screaming/biting) are interfering with his overall development; he will be receiving Occupational Therapy 2x's/month, a Special Educator 2x's/month and a Speech Therapist probably 2x's/month starting in September.  

I hope this is clearly explained for our family what is going on with Connor.  If you have any questions definitely feel free to ask!  I tend to use the phrases and language of the field just because I was in special education for so long, so sometimes it is hard for me to remember to clarify for people unfamiliar with the way we speak about the field.



Please pray for me...as I am making all these decisions about how to best serve Connor, I am struggling.  I struggle with knowing what exactly is the best thing; trying not to be overconfident because this is my field and then having no confidence because it is so different with your own child.  I feel lost because my parenting partner is not here to bounce/discuss ideas on how to best help Connor.  If M was choosing to be away from our family it would be different, I would just take care of everything.  But because he will be back, and he stays involved as the daddy, I want to make sure that the decisions I make are really best for Connor and that M agrees.  This has been a very hard week and I can't explain my struggles other than I am not concerned about Connor, but I am concerned about how I am parenting while temporarily parenting alone.

Last night M was able to call and we had the chance to discuss some of this. He was so supportive and wonderful!!!  But like my mom says, mother's guilt never goes away.  I think most moms do go to bed wondering if they are doing "it" right.  I have to give this to GOD and know that he placed Connor in my life because I know what to do for him!  I always knew I would have a special needs child...so I have to have confidence that I am best for Connor because this is how God planned it!  I am also so thankful that Connor doesn't appear to have a life-long disability.  He is delayed right now, but there is no doubt among his team that he will eventually catch up.  So while we will have an intense year or two of therapy and support, I am so thankful that he doesn't have Autism, Down's, or any other life-long learning difference.

Caleb is delayed, but not enough to qualify for services.  No shock because this is life with preemies...keep your baby in the uterus as long as you can, not that you have much control, but the preemie things continues to be a difficult.  So no services for Caleb, but he will continue to be monitored.

Both boys do have fluid on their ears and can hear face to face at about 3 feet.  Anything farther than that and they will have trouble hearing.  The boys will be monitored about every 4 weeks to make sure the fluid is not causing ear damage or greatly impacting their hearing.  The boys will continued to be monitored just to make sure we are staying on top of all the concerns.  So glad to have most of the support we need over here.


Alright, the brain vomit is slowing for now.  Thanks for encouraging us on this journey!

Old Hymns

The churches I have gone to since graduating high school sing newer contemporary songs.  Do you ever miss the old hymns?  I have been!  Since having kids, I would love to be at a church that at least occasionally sang all the old hymns.  I want my kids to have that same feeling of comfort I have when hearing the old music.  What is you favorite old hymn?  Mine is Sing and Be Happy (at least I think that is the name) and the one that starts with "There is beyond the azure blue..."

I would love to hear your favorite to bring up fond memories!

Not killing time anymore

About a year ago a friend who has two boys and then identical twin girls wrote that she had not really ever been excited about being a stay-at-home-mom until then.  I so related to this feeling.  She was then finally at a point where she was now enjoying her kids, liking being with them and excited about what each day would bring.  I was not relating to that feeling.  However, I can say that we have reached that point.  I used to think of being at home as a time killer until we could settle and the kids were older.  I would stay at home because it was easier and best for our family.  But I was in the meantime aching to be back in a classroom.  I missed the new year smell, the progress of kids who may not be making such progress with others, the thrill of a child's success.  I can honestly say, since January, life has been getting better and better.  Of course there are frustrating days, but who doesn't have those.

This week with 3 sick kids I realized I am no longer just killing time until I can go back to work.  Being able to snuggle with each kid as he/she was sick was priceless.  I enjoyed being able to hold them and get them what they needed from a mother's heart.  I couldn't imagine my babies even feeling a little crummy and sending them off because I couldn't afford to miss another day of work.  I am grateful we are not having to worry about me missing work and a paycheck.  I am so grateful for the way our lives have unfolded and for the amazing support of our friends and family.

M and I worked very hard pre-kids setting us up to be in a place where we could afford for me to stay home.  I am now so grateful we had a plan and by the grace of God were able to accomplish that plan.  We may not be able to go on weekend trips all over Asia, but my kids have mommy here each day.

I also could not imagine being a working mother.  How do you get errands done, laundry done, kids' activities, homework, church, etc.  How do you do it all and still love on your kids and be there for your kids?  You are quite extraordinary women to be able to do it all!

A toast to all mothers --- those who work outside the home, those who stay at home, those who have babies in Heaven, those who have born children or welcomed a child into your home not from your flesh, those who do it alone and those who have a partner, those who can't be with their children and those who reach out in motherly ways to the people around you.  We are all in this together

I know some people are very sensitive about this topic.  I am not writing this to put down a different way of life for anyone else's family.  Each family has to do what is best for their family.  If you know me at all, you know I advocate what is best for the family!  With M's long work hours, gone for weeks and months at a time, and having to be able to up and go with a moment's notice, there is no other choice for our family.  This is best for our family.  I have to be the rock that our kids rely on and the person who will remain constant.  Leaving no room for work -- and I am recently finding myself so grateful for this!  So don't get all flustered and offended.  I am only expressing my appreciation for our life.  That doesn't mean I don't value you and your life too.

Have a wonderful weekend!

PS - as always stupid comments will be deleted.  Caring, loving, supportive and encouraging-to-all-mothers comments welcome!

Early Intervention -- Again

Here we go again. Almost one year exactly.  Today the boys had their 15 month check up (month and 1/2 late with mommy of the year award going to B).  The Dr. is concerned that the boys are only using about 4 words.  Connor is displaying a few more red flags so EDIS (Early Intervention) will be contacting us shortly.  We'll go through the referral and eligibility process again.  While I am certain that the boys are only delayed and will eventually catch up just as they have since they were born, if we can get services, we will use them.  Being twin, males, preemies,  and an older sister who speaks A LOT well; these are many of the factors we consider when deciding if a child truly has a disability or just somewhat delayed.  We'll keep you updated.  Neither M or I are too concerned and are looking forward to the day very soon when 3 kids are jabbering my ear off.

They both do have terrible colds with ear infections.  They are snotty nosed and just plain miserable.  So please do say a prayer that I have 110% patience with the whining, fussiness and overall unhappy boys.

L just got home from a friend's house and looked off.  She now has a 102.1 temp.  I don't want the family she was with to get sick.   Please pray for all 3 sick kids and that Mama doesn't get sick too!

Please also pray for Connor.  He is now in the 1% for weight.  We are adding some supplements to his diet to try and get some weight on him.  He is way too tiny and needs to get some meat on his bones.  Don't I wish I had that problem ;).  Thanks you all!!!!

Children's Benadryl -- Help PLEASE!

There are only 3 OTC drugs I can give to my babies.  We can no longer get ANY of the only 3 meds for my children at the Commissary or the Exchange.  Can you please help?

Back in Nov. I stocked up on Motrin and Tylenol which are not available.  However, I can no longer get Childrens' Benadryl.  Amazon will not ship Childrens' Benadryl to us.  Can you please help us?  I will reimburse you when you let me know how much you have spent and postage.  I would REALLY appreciate being able to get this item for my snotty nosed babies.  Thank you to you who respond!!  Do you have any idea how miserable little ones can be without meds?  God Bless pioneer women who had no meds for their tykes.  I am just not willing to go without when it is available.

Thank you for your help and support!

8 years later

How did I know M was "the one" for all the rest of my life?

He prays for us.
He prays for our family.
He is a steady rock of faith.
He can be counted on for big and little things.
He overcomes struggle with God and determination.
He is wise.
When he makes a decision, he sticks to it.
He is truthful with grace ind integrity.
What he loves about the Marine Corps. is Semper Fidilis.  Which he lives out in every moment.
He loves his family.
He is dedicated to becoming a better man each day.
He continues to learn when he can.
He can interact and connect in a way with Lexi which guides her to becoming a Christ-centered woman.


Thank you dear God for bringing us together.  Thank you dear God for the life that we have and the blessings and trials you have provided.  Thank you for M!

What?

This email has been cracking me up for 2 days...hope you enjoy!  Don't get all churchy on me, sometimes you just need a good laugh.

Resimay 
To hoom it mae cunsern, 

I waunt to apply for the job what I saw in the paper.   

I can Type realee quik wit one finggar and do sum a counting..   

I think I am good on the phone and I no I am a pepole person,   
Pepole really seam to respond 
to me well. Certain men and all the ladies.   

I no my spelling is not to good but fi nd that I Offen can get a job thru my persinalety.    
My salerery is open so we can discus wat you want to pay me and wat you think that I am werth,  

I can start emeditely.  Thank you in advanse fore yore anser.   

hopifuly Yore best aplicant so farr. 

Sinseerly, 

BRYAN     

PS : Because my resimay is a bit short - below is a pickture of me.  

Employer's response: 
Dear Bryan ,   
It's OK honey, we've got spell check.  
See you Monday.

Appreciative

Thank you so much to everyone who is leaving comments, emails and encouraging words.  We are one month into our deployment and we feel so loved.  I am so excited to check Facebook each day to see who is saying something kind.  Thank you for you love, support and prayers!

My mother-in-laws

You probably know that I am blessed to have two mother-in-laws.  Between both of them we are blessed to have love, support and prayers.  One specific blessing of late has been from M's biological mother, sending me "Daily Words of Encouragement" emails.  They are so touching.  I just opened up today's email and am still sitting here crying.  I was deeply moved that she would think this of me and our family.  She called me her lion.  Though I am not nearly as tough as the Army wives who have to go 14 months with their husbands gone!  Thank you for your love and support!  

Here is the email posted...

The good Lord was creating a model for military wives and was into his sixth day of overtime when an angel appeared. She said, "Lord, you seem to be having a lot of trouble with this one. What's wrong with the standard model? The Lord replied, "Have you seen the specs on this order?" She has to be completely independent, possess the qualities of both father and mother. Be a perfect hostess to four to 40 with an hour's notice, run on black coffee, handle every emergency imaginable without a manual, be able to carry on cheerfully, even if she is pregnant and has the flu, and she must be willing to move to a new location 10 times in 17 years. And oh, yes, she must have six pairs of hands. The angel shook her head. "Six pairs of hands?" No way. 

"The Lord continued, “Don't worry, we will make the other military wives to help her. And we will give her an unusually strong heart so it can swell with pride in her husband’s achievements, sustain the pain of separations, beat soundly when it is overworked and tired, and be large enough to say, "I understand," when she doesn't, and say, "I love you' regardless." "Lord," said the angel, touching his arm gently, "Go to bed and get some rest. You can finish this tomorrow. "I can't stop now," the Lord said. "I am so close to creating something unique." Already this model heals her when sick, can put up with six unexpected guests for the weekend, wave good-bye to her husband from a pier, a runway or depot, and understand why it's important that he leave." The angel circled the model of the military wife, looked closely and sighed, "It looks fine, but it's too soft." She might look soft,” replied the Lord. "But she has the strength of a lion. You would not believe what she can endure." 

Finally, the angel bent over and ran her finger across the cheek of the Lord’s creation. "There's a leak," she announced. "Something is wrong with the construction. I am not surprised that it has cracked. You are trying to put too much into this. "

The Lord appeared offended at the angel’s lack of confidence. "What you see is not a leak", he said, "It’s a tear." "A tear? What is it there for?", asked the angel. The Lord replied, "It’s for joy, sadness, pain, disappointment, loneliness, pride and a dedication to all the values that she and her husband hold dear." "You are a genius!" exclaimed the angel.

The Lord looked puzzled and replied, "I didn’t put it there".