Just not feeling it

Today just wasn't a good day. I wasn't feeling the holiday spirit at all! Or any spirit for that matter. I was frustrated, irritated, angry. You name it, that was me.  I'm feeling a little better now. I'm in the middle of baking my Oma's wien cookies. I am up to 300 bite size cookies so far and I have another roll of dough to go.  Then I have to add icing and sprinkles, let them dry and put them all up.  It's already 11 !!! I am thinking its going to be a long night.  Oh well, to me, it wouldn't be Christmas without these cookies so it is totally worth it! 

I am hoping tomorrow is a better day.

Holiday Cheer

As always, we've been fairly busy.  Actually, things slowed down a little for the time being.  Rassie had one appointment last week and labs.   He hasn't started his outpatient physical therapy yet so we've had time to stay home. 

We finished up the Christmas shopping.  I think we managed to do pretty good on a budget.  I finally finished wrapping gifts.  I take that back I have 3 left to wrap.  I made up all the dough for my wien cookies and tomorrow I plan on baking them.  We took the kids to see the Christmas lights at BLORA.  Scarlett and Lane both loved it!  I was surprised at how well Lane followed the lights.   Last Friday we took the kids to see Santa at the mall.  Scarlett actually sat in his lap. I was so proud of her.  When we saw him at WalMart she was scared to leave my hip.  It was like we were glued together.  We also got Lane to smile in one of the Santa pics but Scarlett had her eyes closed in that one so we had to choose another.  That's ok.  I got both my babies together in a picture with Santa.

I managed to get my house fairly clean this weekend. I need to clean the floors and pic up the minor stuff now.  I bleached both bathrooms today. I can honestly say THEY'RE CLEAN!   I think I lucked out on having to cook the ham and turkey for Christmas.  My brother and Rassie decided they were going to deep fry one turkey and smoke the other with the ham.  Woo Hoo! Less work for me.  I am doing the mashed potatoes, gravy, beans, mac & cheese, chocolate & lemon pie and maybe a green bean salad. I need to double check if mom is bringing that or not.  I can't wait for Christmas morning! I am so excited to see the kids open their gifts.  Especially Scarlett because she actually gets the concept of what a present is this year.  She got to open one the other day when the inlaws were here and she was excited!

Alright. I think thats a pretty good update for now.  I have recipes coming soon!

God Bless & Good Night

It's been a while

I guess its been a little bit since I updated on everything here.  We are all doing pretty good.  Lots of appointments and much more.   Scarlett was sick this past weekend with a stomach bug and then I had it yesterday. I felt like crud and didn't get out of bed the entire day.  I managed to drink some 7up and eat a few crackers.  Scarlett had me a little worried with her stomach bug. She threw up Saturday but then seemed to be ok. On Sunday I couldn't get her to drink anything and she had a total of ONE wet diaper.  After talking to my aunt, a nurse and my mom I decided to take her to the ER.   Because they managed to get her to take a sip of juice while we were there they said she was fine.  She still had tears and her mouth had some moisture in it.  I am glad they didn't have to hook her up to an IV though.    But I did not like the doctor we saw at all.  She said I should take a syringe and force fluids into her.  1) I don't think a scare tactic is the right way to go and 2) forcing it down her could have caused her to aspirate and fluids to go into her lungs. Then the doctor told me DO NOT give her pedialite because it is nasty and then she wouldn't drink anything.   AHH! Finally around 11pm I got her to eat a popsicle and then she decided it was good and ate 2 more. I was happy and so was Scarlett!

Today I took Lane into the doctor.  Last Monday night the area around his boy parts were all swollen. He did have a rash on his bottom though.  So when I called in and talked to the nurse she said it sounded like inflammation from a yeast infection and I could put lotrimin cream on him or monistat.  I went with A&D ointment w/zinc oxide.  The rash was gone in less than 2 days, the swelling and puffiness wasn't.  I called back and talked to the nurse again. She had me check to see if I could feel both of his testicles to make sure they were both dropped and one wasn't stuck.  They were both there.  The nurse said to give it 2 more days over the weekend and if he was still swollen bring him in.  Since I was sick Monday I had to wait until today.  The doctor said she believes its a hernia.  She checked everything over thoroughly.  It's all where its supposed to be.  Lane is still puffy though.  The doctor said he will probably swell again.  If the swelling becomes tight or bluish I should bring him back immediately. She also said if it doesn't go away when he nears the age of one they may want to do surgery to remove the hernia.  I am praying it goes away.

Other than being sick everything has been decent.  Playing, cleaning, growing.  You name it we're doing it.  We switched the nursery and Scarlett's big girl room because she wouldn't sleep in a new room and a new bed.  I only thought I was going to get the easy way out by leaving the nursery in the same room.  That's ok though.  It's working out just fine switching the rooms and Scarlett is sleeping great in her twin bed.  I think I updated on this already though? I can't remember..lol

The in laws visited this past weekend. It wasn't as bad as it could have been.  And the visit was short and sweet. Although they did claim that Scarlett drinking too much sweet tea at lunch is what caused her to throw up and be sick all weekend..lol  Oh well, what can you say?

Well I have LOTS of house work to do so I better get to it.

Thankful For Family

I am so Thankful for my family and friends. I had a wonderful Thanksgiving. We stayed home and everyone came to us! Well at least my side of the family. I cooked the turkey and ham and everyone else brought a pot luck Thanksgiving dish. It was great. We all sat around eating, talking and then all the guys went outside and played football. Of course Dallas played too so everyone hit the TV for the big game as well. The day turned out to be just beautiful. Scarlett was a little cranky but she missed her nap and refused to take one with a house full of people. I guess I can't blame her. It was such a Blessing to be surrounded by so much family.


Life is still busy as ever. People coming and going. Appointments here and there. This week we have a total of four appointments! Plus we have physical therapy coming three times this week and the home health nurse once. Crazy right? That's life!

I moved Scarlett into her twin bed. I've been working on this for a while with naptime but it just wasn't working. I finally got a clue and switched the baby room furniture with her big girl room furniture. I think switching rooms and beds was way too much of a tranistion. She was super excited when we moved her Tinkerbell bed into her room and took down the crib. She grabbed up all her bedtime things: doll, bear, blanket, snoopy and headed to her room in the middle of the afternoon. Told me "nigh nigh" and closed the door. Haha! She's such a toot. She has slept in there for 3 nights now and is doing a terrific job and I am very proud of her. She is becoming such a little lady! She has her silly moments but she melts my heart with all she does. On top of her 'please' and 'thank you's' she is now saying 'excuse me' when she needs to get by you or you're in her way. *sigh* I love my babies so much.

I let Lane sleep in the crib for the first time. Only for naptime though. I am so not ready to move him out of my room. But he's outgrown the bassinet and I still have him in it. He's past the age and weight limit. I guess I need to suck it up and move him. *tear* I can't believe how fast my two sweet babies are growing. Lane has his 4 month well baby tomorrow. I think he's doing great and right on track but I am a little worried about him rolling over. He's still not doing it yet. He's rolled from front to back a few times on accident and its been a while since he's even done that. Oh well, he's happy and healthy and I couldn't ask for anything more than that. Plus, I don't want him to grow up so fast!

Once this week blows by us I plan on calling my primary to set up an appointment. My foot is killing me! Some days I feel like I can't walk. I cannot go barefoot at all. And the only shoes in the house I can wear that don't hurt my feet are some off the wall crocs that are a harder plastic and baby blue in color. Not to mention the green grass stains from mowing the yard. Not sure what is up with mmy foot. It hurts on the bottom outside of the heel and when I stretch it it hurts up through the toes I guess? It's hard to explain I would have to show. I have had 2 surgeries on this ankle before and there is a screw in it. I am really hoping that has nothing to do with what's going on. Especially since that was torn and detached tendons and ligaments. I really wouldn't be able to go through a surgery right now to fix it yet again! But since that was the ankle and this is the actual heel/foot I am thinking it's something new. So, wish me luck when I finally do get into the doctor to figure out whats going on!

Alright, enough from me tonight. I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

God Bless & Good Night!

Life is Busy

Life is busy. Between babies and Rassie, cleaning house, keeping up with everything else, etc.  I don't have much time to update on here.  I have been trying to spend lots of time with the kids. I want to make sure I give them plenty of attention and playtime.  I am still cooking with Scarlett every weekend.  She really enjoys it.  Last weekend we made puppy chow. This weekend we made chocolate pretzels and cheesy ranch chex mix.  Scarlett is growing so fast and getting so smart.  She is really starting to put words together and make sentences.  Everyday she amazes me with something new she's saying.  I guess my favorite this week was when we were laying in bed watching cartoons, she decides to sit on my head and say "I fart Mommy"  she wanted to pass gas on me.  I couldn't help but laugh so now she has been doing this all week.  Oh well, I'm hoping its a phase. LOL   Lane is growing too. He's actually giggling now.  I can't wait for the full belly laughs. Those or the best.  But his giggles really melt my heart.  Lane is also a talker.  As long as you talk to him he talks right back to you.  I'm loving this time together so much right now.

I have also been considering nursing school.  I am a big weenie when it comes to needles. To the point I have passed out in the past.  I have started doing better with them though.   Rassie may not be able to get back to doing a strenous job and has said he would go through nursing school with me.  The nursing program starting in May but I would have to have some pre-reqs out of the way so it may not be able to do those until the spring or next fall.  And I would have had to have them finished before MAY and take the test to enter the nursing program.  So it's something I am thinking on and have a little time.  

Thats about it for now

Life is a little busy

Being a Mommy makes life a little busy!  Taking care of the two babies and then my third baby (husband)  has become quite the chore!   Cooking, cleaning, baths, and playing nurse!  I should just go to school and become a nurse (if it weren't for being deathly afraid of needles I might just do it!)   I feel like I am working around the clock. Lane is sleeping from about 8/9 pm to 5:30/6:30 am but I am still waking up every 4 hours! Not to feed but to give medication.  I have my clipboard, my clock and a bowl full of prescriptions for Rassie.  They can't all be taken at the same time but the main pain medication is due every 4 hours. The rest are due every 8 hours.  I tried to get them on the same schedule but they have to be taken at least 15 minutes apart. Sound crazy? It is! When they both fall during the middle of the night I either have to stay up for 15 minutes or just as I fall asleep I have to wake back up.  Oh the life! But I can't complain too much because I am extremely happy to have my entire family at home! 

The kids are doing great. Scarlett is talking up a storm. Putting more and more sentences together. You really have to be careful with what you say these days too because she enjoys repeating.  I do let an "oh sh*t" slip every now and then and I pay for it for about 5 minutes.   I'm getting better.  Lane is sleeping really well at night.  He has become and extremely hungry baby too!  I have given him a taste of bananas a few times to tide him over. I know its a little early but he is 3.5 months and we started solids at 4 months with Scarlett. Her pedi recommended it. There is so much information out there and yes I've read it all but I am going with my gut and my gut says that my baby is hungry!  Lane loves the banana!  I don't give him much and its only once a day but I have really seen the difference in his appetite. He's actually full and not crying for a 6oz+ bottle every 3 hours.   He stays awake for long periods of time now and is so alert.  He loves sitting up. I wish I had a bumbo but they're just too dang expensive for us right now.  His bouncer is his favorite place to be and he really bats at and grabs his toys.  I am really amazed.  Scarlett didn't play with her toys on the bouncer this much, this early.   I can put him in the bouncer and he will play for at least an hour.  It makes it really nice to get things done around the house.  Scarlett has become quite the little helper.  When I vacuum she gets her popper toy and vacuums.  When I sweep she gets the extra broom and sweeps.   She helps take the dishes to the sink. She helps throw the laundry in the washer and pull it out of the dryer.  It's so darn cute but I know its a phase that will soon pass and she will not want to help clean anymore :)    It keeps her out of things she shouldn't be in while I do chores though and that makes things a little easier around here.

Rassie is doing well.  He starts his CML treatment this coming week. Our insurance approved his Gleevec. I am extremely happy about that.  His rehab/physical therapy is going well.  He is still standing each day and some days he's able to take a couple of steps with the walker.  I work with him on the days the nurse doesn't come.  It's hard to see him in that much pain but I give him lots of encouragement and remind him just how proud I am. 

That's about it for now!  Pictures coming soon.  Scarlett and I have started a new 'tradition' . Each weekend we're going to start cooking something.  Last week we made Daddy's b-day cake and this week we made puppy chow.  She really loves it and I think its a great way for us to have Mommy & Scarlett time... Ok I'm going to stop rambling.

God Bless & Good Night

May the Fallen Soldiers who passed during the

Ft. Hood shooting

Forever Rest in Peace

Cooking With Scarlett

Yesterday was Rassie's 30th Birthday.  Because we relaxed most of the day and then attended a wedding, today was the day to celebrate daddy!  I slow roasted steak and potatoes and Scarlett made Daddy a birthday cake.  She loved every minute of it!  This is extremely picture heavy...so GET READY!

Ready to get Started

Pouring the cake mix

Adding the water

Pouring the oil

Don't forget the eggs

Now Stir

And Stir

What do I do now?

Time to Clean up

Washing the counter

Time for icing

Finished Product

One last lick

Happy 30th Daddy

It was "1" or "tinkerbell" I let Scarlett choose

Tasting her work

Weekend Fun

The family as a whole had a pretty good weekend!  I picked Rassie up from Scott & White on Friday afternoon and brought him home.  After much running around I finally got my hands on most of his scrips, did some grocery shopping and got both babies in bed. Don't worry, I didn't drag Rassie out with me.  Rassie and I both crashed by 9:30 that night!

Saturday we spent most of the day relaxing at home for Rassie's 30th birthday.  I made him breakfast and we snacked for lunch.  Sunday I made him cake and dinner. Then it was time for extra showers and pretty clothes!  My cousins wedding was at 5.  We barely made it in time.  Start early, get side tracked, never get out of the house when you expect to.  I guess that truely is the life of a mother!  Oh and I could not for the life of me find Scarlett's shoes so I had to grab her too little sandals and just go with it as I was flying out the door.  The wedding was outside and was absolutely beautiful.  We all had a great time, even Rassie.  I know he was hurting but he wanted to stay for a while and enjoy himself.  We did make it home by 8 though and once again we were all in bed by 9:30!  We are just a worn out family :)

Today was Sunday. I spent the day trying to get the house cleaned up but I didn't get very far.  I put a london broil and potatos in the crock pot.  Man oh Man how I wanted a steak on the grill but our grill is acting up and I didn't want any explosions.  The slow roasted steak and potatoes turned out really yummy.  Rassie said it was a really great birthday dinner.  Scarlett and I also made Rassie a cake. Scarlett had a really fun time helping and I think she did an amazing job!

Here are a few pictures from the wedding.

Scarlett on the dance floor

Scarlett and Rassie - they were sneaking candy

Relaxing in the stroller after a long night

The Wedding Party

The Punch and Pretty Flowers

The Wedding Cake

Decoration on the Cake Table

Part of the Candy Table.. Something about this just draws me in. :)

 

Wednesday Wishes

For the past 3 weeks I have been praying for Rassie to be well enough and stable enough to come home.  He got to visit on a day pass this past weekend.  I was ecstatic to have him home and have that time with him.  And now my wish for him to come home is coming true.  Friday he gets to come home, for good!  No more nights alone! No more mornings waking up to an empty bed! 

I'm Glad It's Over

I am glad today is over. CSI New York is on the way and I will be watching it from my big comfy bed!  The day didn't start off all that bad. I did wake up with a stye.  I hate them!  I rarely wear makeup but I have been lately because I don't want to feel blah when I go to the hospital to visit Rassie.  It seems like everytime I wear eye liner I end up with a stye.  Guess that's my sign to stay makeup free.. I really am not a big makeup person anyways so its not a big deal.  I guess the stresses of daily life didn't help either. Styes are sort of like pimples and stress can bring them on. Oh well, I did a warm compress a few times today and it seems to be lots better. Hoping its gone tomorrow. 

I took the kids to the WhistleStop Park again today.  The weather was beautiful. I think we ended up with a high of 78.  I loved the warm sun.   I strolled Lane around while Scarlett played.  She even braved the tire swing and tunnel slides today.  She was watching the other kids play and I guess seeing how happy it made them she decided she should give it a try too.   There was one little boy who was a bit mean.  The park is all wooden and there was this truck with a steering wheel that Scarlett was playing in.  The little boy told her "get away" over and over.  I walked over there and blatantly said "he's not being very nice Scarlett. I will stay here so you can play" .  The little boy ran off.  I couldn't find his mom.  There were lots of mom's not even watching their kids. It kind of irritated me because I didn't feel like I should have to stand over Scarlett just so another little kid would let her play.   Scarlett did find a friend though.  The little girl was 2.  I didn't catch her name but Scarlett was infatuated with her.  They followed each other around and took turns on the slide.  Scarlett kept telling her "HI" and trying to hold her hand.  Her mom actually came over and talked a little bit.  The little girl also like looking at Lane.  She was amazed by the real life baby. It was cute. 

From the park we headed to Casa Ole'.  My mom treated me to lunch.  I haven't eaten at Casa Ole since early in my pregnancy with Lane.  It made me sick everytime and so we just stopped going there.  That's ok though, my favorite little off the wall Mexican Restaruant, Corona's, never did me wrong!   After lunch we all went to the soft play area in the mall and let Scarlett play a little longer.

It was 1 by the time I made it home and boy was Scarlett ready for a nap.  We could not find either of her 2 paci's.  Right then and there I should have just taken them away cold turkey.  I found a back up in the kitchen drawer but it was latex instead of silicone and a much smaller fit for her mouth.  She was not happy and threw it down.  I told her it was that paci or nothing and so she took it and went to sleep.

Both babies were down for a nap when a horrible headache hit me.  I took a motrin and laid on the couch.  Then Lane woke up. I had a 3 muskateers and started feeling nauseous. Yuck!  Just my luck Scarlett woke up.  I tried to get up and get moving so we could head to the hospital to see Rassie but the pressure was just beating down on me. My nose started running. I could feel plegm in my throat. I felt like I could puke any moment and my head was still pounding.  I fed Lane and got him happy in the bouncer then I laid back on the couch with Scarlett for some Tom & Jerry.  Nothing was helping! So I locked us all in my bedroom. We crowded onto the bed with cartoons. I put a cool cloth on my head and just relaxed. Lane passed back out and Scarlett was content playing with her babies on the bed and watching toons.  Finally at about 4:30 I started feeling better.

We made it to see Rassie for a few hours.  Scarlett ate dinner with him. I skipped dinner.  Now I'm home, both babies snoozing and my big ol' bed waiting for me to climb on in!  I hope tomorrow is a better day.  I don't want to feel sick again!

Photos As Promised!

They are so in love with each other

Lane at the Pumpkin Patch

Scarlett at the Pumpkin Patch

Lane in his Baseball sleeper for Halloween

Princess Scarlett

Can you tell she was ready to go?

Hooray for Weekends!

This past weekend was really good.  Rassie got to come home 2 days in a row on a day pass.  The kids really enjoyed having Daddy home and I know he enjoyed seeing these familiar walls. Now we're just waiting for the day he gets to come home for good and do rehab as an outpatient.

This weekend was also Halloween.  Scarlett was a princess and Lane was a baseball player.  I took Scarlett trick or treating while my aunt watched Lane and handed out candy.  Scarlett really enjoyed herself.  She loved walking from house to house and collecting candy.  I could not get her to say trick or treat when we walked up to houses but as soon as we walked off she would.  She was very polite though and said thank you to everyone who gave her a treat.  When we got in the truck to drive to the next street she couldn't wait to get out.  "more, out, more, out".  Those were her cute little words.  I loved seeing her so excited.   We took her trick or treating last year but this was her first true Halloween that she was old enough and able to grasp the concept of what was going on.  I really wish Rassie could have been with us be we all understood why he couldn't be.  We did spend most of the day with him though.

Lane turned 3 months on Halloween.  Where has the time gone?   I can't believe how fast the days are going by.  Sometimes I want to slow down the hands of time.   He is cooing and smiling and getting little bits of a giggle out here and there.  He holds his head up really well now and thinks he should sit up like a big boy.  If I weren't so broke I would get him a bumbo chair!  He has rolled over, once and it was on accident. Not to mention I missed it because I was out of the room.  Hasn't attempted to roll over since but I am sure the time will come and there is definitely no rush as of now.  I want my baby to be a baby.

Scarlett is doing good. As I said above, she really enjoyed Halloween.  She also likes the fish at the hospital so we are thinking that Santa is going to bring her a fish for Christmas.  I think a beta will do just fine.  She is getting so smart. And her memory, wow!  I can really tell its improving.  She's remembering people and places that she does not see very often.  Her vocabulary, a bit hard to understand, is growing and she's trying to spit out sentences.  My favorite is "Lub Me"  Everytime we say "I love you"  she tells us "Lub Me" back.  hahaha! I love it!!!!! 

I will make a special post just for new pics later when I find the time!  I hope everyone enjoyed their weekend and had a fun, safe Halloween. 

What a Stinker!

I've had the potty chair out again. Hoping to make some progress on this potty training deal.  Scarlett is a smart girl. I know that when she finally goes on the potty she will like it and the training will go alot easier.  Bad thing is, she is still afraid to go on the potty.  She loves to sit on the toilet and her potty chair but she is scared to go on it when she actually needs to.  I was so excited yesterday.  She told me she had to potty and wanted me to take her diaper off. She sat on the potty.  She sat and sat and sat.  And then she gets up and squats beside the chair.  Mid pee I hurry back on to the potty.  She wouldn't finish.  She then asked for her diaper.  I think she just doesn't understand what exactly she is supposed to do on the potty.  I was thinking about getting her a doll similar to a Betsy Wetsy. That way she can see that when her baby drinks and you sit her on the potty her pee pee goes into the potty.  Not sure what else to try.

We had a pretty good few days. Visited Daddy at the hospital. Scarlett was upset to leave yesterday but once we were gone she was fine.  Today she was upset over the fish when we left.  I think I see a fish from Santa in the near future!  Lane is still doing good.  He's trying to laugh now.  He can't quite get it out though. He loves to sit up. He's liking the bouncer more over the swing because he can sit up more and look around. Lane & Scarlett are still best friends! She keeps him very entertained while I clean. She's a big help!

We also painted Daddy a picture yesterday! Here's a picture of the "finished prodcut" LOL

The WhistleStop

Today was a pretty good day.  I started out feeling like a horrible Mommy this morning though.  When Scarlett woke up I put her in my bed to watch cartoons.  She was ready to get up but she didn't get into the right position and she fell off the bed. She hit her back on the side boards of the bed from.  There is a soft knotted bruise.  I felt so bad. I did call the pedi's office and ask them what to watch for in case I needed to bring her in.  They said to watch for the bruise and bump to get bigger or for blood in her urine. Either of these two things could mean that she bruised her kidney.  I watched her closely all day but she was fine.  Her happy little self.

I took the kids to the park this afternoon.  It was cloudy out but still warm, 70s, and a south wind.  I went ahead and put a light jacket on Lane.  I figured he's still pretty little and needed it.  Lane loved being outside. He did end up falling asleep on us though.  Scarlett had a blast.  She found one wavy slide that she had to do over and over again.  Everytime she would slide down she would hold up one finger and tell me "one more".  The funny thing, she holds up that one finger on each hand everytime she tells me something lately. No clue where she got it from but it is the cutest thing!  She was scared of the tunnel slides.  She would climb all the way to the top and look into the slide. I would tell "Ok Scarlett, slide down."  And she would tell me "NO" in a whiny voice with a little bit of attitude. Hilarious! She sounded like when you tell a teenager to go clean their room or something.   She also had fun driving the train and truck there. Oh and let's not forget the swing.  She wanted to sit in the chair swing so that Lane could sit with her.  I did put him in it for a minute but it's probably not the safest so it was only long enough to snap a picture and satisfy Scarlett.  There were a few other kids her age but she wasn't really interested in playing with them.  She would chase after them and laugh. But then she would just stop and go back to what she was doing.  Guess she was having much more fun on her own. Silly Girl!

We went and visited her Daddy tonight at the hospital.  She always enjoys seeing him and we're always there just in time for supper.  Everytime they bring in his food tray she jumps up on his bed and hollars "I EAT!"  We weren't there very long tonight.  Rassie was pretty tired.  They gave him an ambien last night to help him sleep and it didn't kick in until today! Strange I know.  That's ok though.  Scarlett was ready to come home anyways.  She had given him hugs and kisses and told him byebye before we ever planned on leaving.  And everytime we leave she has to run over to the fish in the rehab lobby.  Kiss and hug the fish tank and tell all of the fish bye bye.   I was taking in the double stroller but on days with nice weather I let her walk.  It does slow us down a little, especially with the fish, but why not let her enjoy being out and about.


So that's about it.  Tomorrow we may make a trip to the Mall's soft play area or grocery shopping if the weather permits.  Its supposed to be rainy and cool so we'll see.  Happy Hump Day Everyone!

Days Go By

The days seem to be flying by here lately.  I hate it.  I wish everything would just slow down.  My babies are growing way too fast.  In less than a week Lane will be 3 months old. I can hardly believe it. It seems like just yesterday I was in labor and delivery holding him in my arms for the first time.  He is such a happy baby. He really loves when you lay him on your tummy. He just looks up into your face smiling and cooing.  I would do anything for that sweet little face.   And Scarlett, she'll be 2 in January.  I was just looking at pictures of her from last year and she has grown and changed so much. I can't believe my baby girl is becoming more and more of an independent toddler everyday.  She says the silliest things.  From "I'm Fine" "I'm Ok" "You ready?....VROOM!"   She has even started the all time "WHY? WHY? WHY?"  She really cracks me up sometimes.

Scarlett and Lane are going to be best friends. I can see it already.  Scarlett is so in love with her baby brother.  When he cries she will say "cryin!!!!  I check him."  Then she will run to him, put her hand on his cheek and say "don't cry".  And the amazing thing, Lane stops crying.  He just looks at her with his big, beautiful eyes and smiles.  If that's not love, I don't know what is.

This past weekend I had my cousins bridal shower here at the house.  It wasn't the biggest turn out but it was still a good shower.  The wedding is in 2 weeks on Rassie's birthday. I am really hoping he gets to be out of the hospital that day if he isn't already discharged.  *fingers crossed* I want him to be able to spend time away from the hospital for his birthday and to be able to go to the wedding.

I haven't made it to the pumpkin patch with the kids yet. I just have not had time.  For the past 2 weeks I have spent everyday at the hospital.  I go less now then I did at first. Mainly because he has rehab all morning and afternoon.  So we only go in the evenings. I have been able to do a little more at home and the kids are able to play and relax.  I was hoping Rassie would be able to go to the pumpkin patch with us but I will just have to take extra pictures while we're there to share with him.

As for trick-or-treating.  The kids and I will probably go to my mom's and hit the neighborhood there.  Small towns always have plenty of Halloween to go around.  I might also take the kids trick-or-treating at the hospital. They usually have a day where you can go around to all the receptionists' desks.  I am hoping that if we do this Rassie will be able to wheel around with us so he doesn't miss out on Lane's 1st Halloween completely.  Scarlett's going to be a Princess and Lane is going to be a baseball player.

Ok, enough of my ramblings. I am sure I have jumped around enough for the night!  Have a great week.

Thursday Already?

Bloggin' right along. This week hasn't been too bad. Spent lots of time visiting Rassie at the hospital.  He enjoys the company considering there's not much he can do.  The kids are pretty well behaved while we're there.  Scarlett is just too funny.  She thought it would be cool to sit in daddy's bed and have breakfast.  I guess the CNA did too because she put clean sheets and blankets on the bed and then brough Scarlett some cereal and juice. All I could think is "you have no idea what kind of mess you are in for"  Luckily there wasn't much mess but that's probably because Scarlett didn't care too much for the Raisin Bran.  Oh well.

Lane liked Daddy's bed too.  He just layed there and cooed and smiled, having a blast.  I can't believe how fast he is growing.  He really likes when you talk to him so he can 'talk' back. He's my funny guy. Especially when he wears Scar's shades..too cute!

This morning I gave the kids a shower.  Yep, I give them showers. I find it so much easier to jump in the shower while Scarlett plays in the water. Wash myself, then her then Lane and get us all out.  This morning I got Lane and I out and dressed. I asked Scarlett if she was ready to get out of the shower and she said "I'm fine". LOL  Oh my goodness I can not believe how smart she is geting and the things she picks up on.

Scarlett got her first package in the mail today. Her Aunt Judy bought her a halloween costumer she found on sale for $2.90 at Toys R Us.  She is going to be a Barbie Princess and just adorable.  Lane is going to wear his baseball sleeper and be a baseball player.  Not sure just yet what we are doing for Halloween but we still have a little time to decide. For now all is good.

Wow I'm Good!!!

*knock on wood*

3 nights in a row and my little prince and princess are both in bed before 9. Of course Scarlett's always in bed around 8 but getting Lane to follow suit not long after has been amazing! I thought it would take months. Well, I guess it kind of did. He is 2 1/2 months already.  He has been taking one long afternoon nap too which has been awesome!! Obvisouly he takes more than one nap a day but that really long one is sooooo nice!

Scarlett's new saying - " I'm OK "   .. She is such a clumsy girl.  I am constantly asking. "are you ok" because she is falling, running into things, and all of the sorts.  So now as soon as she falls or bumps into something she yells " I'm OKAY "   I absolutely love it. She is just too darn cute for her own good!

So that was my quick update of the day. Hope you enjoyed!

Easy Frito Pie Chili Recipe

I don't know about all of you out there but I am not too fond of canned chili.  I always feel like I find something weird in it.  So I came up with my own simple chili recipe and it works great for Frito Pie

Chili

1 lb      ground beef

1 can    ranch style beans

1 can    tomato sauce (the small can)

1 pckg  chili season (found near taco season)

1-2       jalepenos, optional

1/2       diced onion, optional

Brown and drain beef.  If using jalepenos, dice and fry with meat.  Add in remaining ingredients and simmer until heated through,  Serve over Fritos and top with cheese and onions for a Tasty Frito Pie!!

Quite the Weekend

We spent most of the weekend at the hospital visiting Rassie.  What can I say. I miss my hubby and the kids miss their daddy.  But Saturday, Scarlett and I made a trip from the 5th floor to the ER triage.  She spilt hot coffee on herself.  The nurse had brought it in while I was feeding Lane and sat it on the windowsill. She no sooner turned around to walk off reached up and grabbed it. I couldn't say or do anything fast enough to prevent the spill.  Oh how I wish the nurse would have known better than to sit it there!  But being a mom I reacted in super speed.  Laying Lane on the bed between Rassie's legs.  Stripping Scarlett's shirt off and getting her in the bathroom sink with cold water.  Poor baby screamed and cried.  Aside from the coffee burning her she was scared to death of all the comotion.  At first her face, neck, chest and ear were completely red.  But the more I put cold water and damp cloths on her the red went away.  The burns didn't look that bad but the nurse insisted we go to ER and be seen.  (I think this is because she realized it was partially her fault and didnt want to get in trouble if something serious happened).  So they looked my sweet baby over in triage and we all came to the conclusion she would be just fine.  The spots on her that were still red might blister is what the doctor had said but today they are almost all gone.  Thank God.  I know he was watching over her. I could not imagine what the hot coffee could have done to her precious little face and chest.  Before long she was back to her normal self, playing and giggling.

My mom came up to check on us.  We had lunch at Corona's. Oh how I love their enchilladas! I went for the chicken enchilladas this time.  I was stuffed before I could even finish my plate.  So was mom.  Scarlett of course, gobbled up foor like she hasn't eaten before. She loves the mexican food. I can't say I blame her, it's my favorite!  Lane snoozed through lunch.  That was a treat. He usually wants to wake up and be fussy right when its time to sit down and eat. 

For the past 2 days Lane's been on a schedule. It's nice.  I started feeding him 6oz bottles because he was wanting to eat every 3 hours with 5oz bottles and I didn't want to over stuff him.  The 6 oz is working great!  He has been taking a bottle about 10 am.  goes down for mini nap and then at 1 goes down for a long nap sleeping until almost 4.  Then he takes a bottle between 8 and 9 and goes down for the night.  It is so nice!He does still get up twice a night for a feeding but its not bad because he goes right back to sleep.

Scarlett has been sleeping really well but I am sure its because she is worn out with not being home.  It's not like we do much visiting Rassie in the hospital. But it adds to her being tired.   My house is filthy in my opinion. I have a bridal shower I am supposed to help host next Saturday, here at my house. So everytime I am home I am trying to get things cleaned up.  I just don't have enough time between tending to the kiddos and getting back to the hospital to see Rassie.  Starting tomorrow I will probably stay home until after nap before we visit daddy.  I hate leaving him alone all that time but he understands that the kids and I need some home time too.

Ok, I'm going to end this because I seem to be rambling on and on. And Lane is asleep on my shoulder so I need to get him in bed. I hope everyone enjoyed their weekend!

My Babies Tickle Me

My babies make me laugh and laugh and laugh!   First thing this morning, I give Scarlett cereal for breakfast. This isn't an everyday thing. She loves her cereal and does ask for it often.  She didn't ask for it today but I was in a hurry and it was a quick fix. So into the highchair went Scarlett with a bowl of cereal.  She whines and fusses about it.  I tell her 'you need to eat so we can go see daddy'.   She then tells me ' I don't like it '  WHAT?!  So I tell her that's all she's getting.  She goes on with 'want chicken'.   Oh my goodness.  Nope, no chicken for breakfast eat your cereal.  I continue on with normal stuff, getting diaper bags and such ready.  I guess she realized I wasn't giving her anything else to eat because the next thing I knew she was putting the cereal that she dumped back into the bowl and eating it!  Crazy girl.  I made up for it at lunch though and fixed her popcorn chicken.  She ate all of it. 

...and Lane. Oh boy!  He's such a little toot.  Just about everytime he gets fussy and I pick him up he just looks at me and smiles and coos.  It's like he's say "I got ya mom! I knew you'd pick me up.  I just knew you couldn't stand to hear me cry"  Yep, he's got me wrapped around that finger good!  And he makes me laugh every time.  Scarlett was so laid back and easy going. She was content just about anywhere you put her but not Lane. Oh no! He thinks he needs to be held all of the time.  He is definetly a momma's boy!

And did I mention that these babies who give me so many laughs are also the ones that give me the biggest messes?  Yep, that's right.  It started off with Scarlett dumping her chocolate milk all over herself (she needs new sippy cups, her's leak) and ended with Lane leaking poop out the side of his diaper and all over his blanket it and then scrunching up his legs and getting his socks all in it!  I'm glad he was laying on a blanket though. That saved me from having to take apart the swing and clean it and from having to scrub the floor because I didn't make it to the changing table today.

I can no longer imagine a day without my two great kiddos in it.  It's hard to remember what I ever did with my time before I had babies.  Those days could not have been as near as interesting as my life is now.  What kids will do to you! Oh how I love my babies!

The kiddos and I spent the morning visiting Daddy at the hospital. He is in acute care and seems to be doing better. If you would like more of an update on Rassie you can click here. We are all happy to finally have him at a hospital in town with faster more efficient care and a staff that actually has a little bit of compassion.

Worker's Comp is finally stepping in and doing their part.  They have agreed to cover all medical bills. If I receive any in the mail I am to let them know immediately.  They will also make up for lost wages and pay him once a week.  It will only be a percentage of his regular pay but at least it is something.  I am going to try to get something worked out so I can work and make up the difference.  We will see how that goes.

Scarlett is doing good. She has a stuffy/runny nose again.  I am pretty sure it has something to do with the nasty weather because Lane has somewhat of a stuffy nose too.  He's doing well also with the exception of always wanting to be held.  I don't hold him all the time but he sure thinks I should.  Don't get me wrong, I love holding him but I have Scarlett and a house to take care of the same time and he makes it hard at times.  It's ok though, I still love him :) I guess I shouldn't have talked about him because now he is up and crying..lol  gotta go get my sweet pea

Today is finally over

I am so happy today has come to an end. I can't wait to take my shower and crawl into bed.
I finally got a sigh of relief with a phone call saying Rassie was coming home! Well to the hospital here in town anyways.   There were initally going to send him home home but the nurse case manager for workers comp stepped in.  They were going to send him home knowing he could not get out of bed on his own and without any pain meds or muscle relaxers etc.  And without an appointment set up to see a doctor here in town for a follow up and treatment.   Go figure.  Things changed quickly and they did a hospital to hospital transfer.  It took a while because they had to wait for a free ambulance so they could do transport.   He finally made it to S&W around 9ish.  You have no idea how happy I was to hear his voice say " I made it, I'm here"    My honey is almost home!  I can't wait to see him tomorrow and I know his babies miss him too.
We can also get back on track and reschedule an oncologist appointment and get things taken care of with that whole situation.  These past few days have been very hectic and overwhelming. I know I have cried numerous times.  But I try not to do it in front of the kids so mainly at nap and bedtime.  I still have many worries but I have faith we will get through this.  We're still having a few problems concerning worker's comp but I am hoping to get some answers tomorrow so that we can get things worked out.  I did contact a lawyer and he sent us a contract to sign if we want to use him.  He only gets paid if we recover so that's good because we can't really afford to hire a lawyer right now.  As far as that goes, we will make our decision tomorrow once we talk to the workers comp claims adjuster.    Oh the nurse case manager is also sending me paperwork to sign to release Rassie's medical records from the hospitals where he was seen for his accident.  But the doctor at JPS already told her everything, down to he has leukemia and is on medication for that.  I am pretty steamed because he violatd HIPA laws.  Rassie is under the influence of pain medication and cannot consent to anything without being free of those pain meds for at least 4 hours and I was not there to give consent.  Talk about a shocker, who would have thought, a doctor violating privacy laws. Sounds about right, huh?    I am glad they didn't need consent for some type of medical procedure. I guess they would have just done it illegally.  Oh well, it's done with for now and we will get it all worked out eventually.  I'll update when I know more. I hope everyone has a wonderful rest of the week!

Taco Soup

Taco Soup

1 lb                   ground beef, browned

1 15 oz can       ranch style beans

1 10 oz can       rotel tomatoes

1  15oz can       corn, drained (you can use frozen also)

 2 1/2 cups        water

1 pckg              taco season

1/2 pckg           ranch dressing mix (if you do not have you can substitute one squirt around the pan of ranch 

                                                        dressing)

Brown ground beef on med/hi.  Add in all other ingredients, stir well and bring to a boil.  Lower heat to medium and simmer for 5-10 minutes.   Top with crumbled  tortilla chips and cheese of your choice.  Takes less than 30 minutes.  Rassie and Scarlett love this fast and simple meal!

My picture is missing tortilla chips! We were out of them tonight but it was just as good!

What a weekend

Rassie had a work accident Sunday morning.  To read what I initially wrote about that click here.  For today's update... well that is what I am blogging now...

JPS actually got Rassie in for an MRI last night and he got to se a nuerosurgeon today. He has a chronic slipped disk in his back. They let him take off the neck brace and sit up. They are also feeding him finally. It's about time. I know he was starving. Today is the first day he has had anything to eat or drink since Saturday. Yesterday they finally gave in and let him have a few ice chips but other than that he was getting nothing but a saline drip.


The nuerosurgeon suggested transferring Rassie to Scott & White because his recovery will take 4-6 weeks and it would be better if he were closer to home. Because if they do let him come home he will need extensive physical therapy and we can't drive back and forth 2 hours one way everytime he has a pt appointment. But, once Rassie get's here to Scott & White their treatment may be different than what JPS would do. So it's just a wait and see situation. Right now we are waiting for the transfer to be approved. It is a whole process of JPS calling S&W and getting a doctor here to accept Rassie as a patient. Getting dishcharge papers from JPS getting and ambulance transport in between 911 calls and finally the trip down here. We are pretty sure since it's already 8 pm that the transfer is not going to happen tonight but are really praying it does tomorrow. So keep us in your prayers for an approved transfer and a safe drive down here.

Rassie's employer is also giving us trouble and saying Rassie was admitted to the hospital due to a personal illness and not because of his injury at work.  We are trying to get that worked out and are considering talking to an attorney.  We already have a few picked out that we are going to call for a consult to see if we want to go any further.  Maybe just the consult will get his employers on the right path and stop them from denying him workmans comp during his recovery. 

Birthday Party Fun

For the 3rd day in a row now, I was able to get out of the house with the kids.  I am on a roll!  I was worried that Scarlett might be cranky because she took all of a 45 minute nap today. Actually, I do not think she fell asleep at all but I can't be positive. She was quiet for 45 minutes though.

The Birthday Party wasn't until 5 p.m. So for most of the day we hung out around the house.  We didn't do much other than play.  Scarlett put her baby in the high chair and we moved it to her kitchen.  She had a blast playing mommy.  She also colored a picture for Daddy but I forgot to snap a photo of it. Oh, and let's not forget that she insisted on calling Grandpa.  When she finally got him on the phone all she would do is giggle.  Towards the end of their conversation she asked him what he was doing, told him bye bye and said love you and love you too.   She really does love her Grandpa!

Getting Ready for the Party

At about 4:45 we headed to the birthday party.   It was a pizza party and my cousin was turning 3.  Scarlett had lots of fun playing with the balloons and noise makers.  She wasn't too interested in the other kids.  I thought that was strange but then againe she had balloons and that made everything else disappear. She had so much fun that she barely took 2 or 3 bites of ice cream and cake.  But that's ok with me.  She did eat a little bit of salad, cheesy bread, a couple bites of mac & cheese and a taste of pizza.  She was just too busy and interested in everything else going on.  She was pretty well behaved and I am so proud of her for that.

Playing at the Party

Lane stayed awake for the entire party and was past around from relative to relative.  He only fussed once or twice and that was only because they layed him in their arms like a baby.  2 months old and he thinks he is a big boy already.  He likes to be in an upright position on your shoulder or supported sitting against.  What a little stink butt he is.

Being his lazy, drooling Self

Scarlett did get upset once the party was over.  She wanted to go home with grandma.  She was happy once I gave a balloon in the car.  She played with it the entire way home.  Lane finally passed out.  Once we got home Scarlett through a fit to have her balloon untied from her sippy while I was getting Lane out of the car.  I untied the balloon and tried to put it on her wrist but she was not having that.  Needless to say the balloon made an escape through the trees and off into the grey sky above.  Scar was not happy.  But lessoned learned, well for me anyways.  Scarlett will never remember not to let go because she rarely gets a balloon.

Scarlett was overly tired. So after feeding Lane a bottle and getting her into pj's I put her in bed at 7:30.  By 7:40 Lane was in the bassinet sound asleep too!  Wow! Two nights in a row and both babies in bed at the same time.  How I have managed this I have no idea but I am so proud of myself!

Now I am just sitting around relaxing.  Editing a few photos and about to snuggle up in my bed with a good movie and call it an early night.

An edit of my Brother's Fiance and my Nephew