She came home from daycare with a couple of art projects yesterday. She wanted me to know that this should be placed on her bedroom door. :)
smile, it's friday :)
13 years ago
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Emmy Writing Her Name
Emmy has been learning how to write her name. With all of our spare time in the hospital last week, I tried to pass the time with her in the cafeteria & at home by practicing her name.
She came home from daycare with a couple of art projects yesterday. She wanted me to know that this should be placed on her bedroom door. :)
She came home from daycare with a couple of art projects yesterday. She wanted me to know that this should be placed on her bedroom door. :)
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Erin - RSV - Christmas
Well, it wouldn't be a normal holiday in our family without one of our family members getting sick. Poor Erin got sick on Friday the 16th with what we thought was the flu. She then came down with a bad cold. She had a fever all weekend that spiked up to 103.1 and she wouldn't eat anything all weekend.
Brad brought her into the clinic on Monday the 19th. The doctor just said she had a bad cold & an ear infection. She said her fever would go away and she should start feeling better by Wednesday and then they sent him home with a perscription.
We just knew there was something else going on. She certainly wasn't acting herself and she remained lethargic all day. She continued to have a fever and hadn't eaten a thing since Friday (the 16th). We couldn't even get her to look at us. She would just lay around and stare off into the distance. We monitored her all night and then Brad brought her back into the clinic on Tuesday (I was at work).
We thankfully got her regular pediatrician this time. She checked Erin's oxygen levels & took x-rays of her chest. Erin's oxygen levels were in the mid to low 80s (normal should be 100%) and her chest x-ray came back showing pneumonia on her right side. (about this time is when I arrived from work) They continued to give her some nebulizer treatments & oxygen to see if her levels would come back up. It helped a little bit, but her levels continued to dip back down afterwards.
Her doctor thought it would be best to send her to Children's hospital, but she had to go by ambulance to receive oxygen during the ride there.
Brad rode along with her in the ambulance while Emmy and I followed in my car. We sat in the Emergency Room for another couple of hours while Erin got treated/tested. Her E.R. doctor was wonderful about explaining everything going on. He did admit her into the hospital because of her oxygen levels alone, but Erin was also very dehydrated. I also mentioned to the doctor that she was a preemie. Preemies are more susceptible of getting respiratory infections. They tested Erin for RSV, put in an IV and then admitted her into the hospital.
During the hospital stay Erin had short bursts of energy that tended to wipe her out pretty quickly. She tested positive for RSV which doctors told us probably brought on the pneumonia. She developed a rash and continued to be treated for her double ear infection. Her fever remained all week until Friday. She didn't eat anything until Thursday - almost a week from when she started getting sick. She got fluids and antibiotics through her IV.
The doctors told us that she had to breathe on her own (without the help of oxygen) for 24 hrs AND have oxygen levels into the 90s before she would get discharged. They tried weaning her off the oxygen a few times & also spaced out her neb treatments to every four hours but eventually had to go back to her previous routine.
Erin became very irritable in the hospital. By Friday she was starting to get sick of being in her room and stuck in her crib. She didn't want me to look at her & she wasn't happy with the nurses that came into her room.
We eventually got approval to take Erin for a wagon ride around the 6th floor. Erin really loved being out of her room and anytime we got close to her room she would freak out and point to go the other way.
Daddy stayed with Erin in the hospital all week while I stayed home with Emmy and made several trips up to the hospital. My mom came up to help watch Emmy too so that both Brad & I could be there with Erin.
Erin was a daddy's girl before but now she's really attached at the hip with all their bonding this past week. If you thought it was bad before how much Erin tugged on Brad's leg...it's way worse now!
Emmy was not allowed to go up to Erin's room. The hospital had a strict policy about any kids under the age of five. However, on Christmas Eve our nurse had told us if we could sneak Emmy past security, she could allow her up to Erin's room for a few minutes. We ended up doing the same thing on Christmas Day.
The doctor finally gave us approval to go home on Christmas Day! I think the next holiday will be celebrated a little bit early in our family since we tend to get sick on those occasions. Also, I think I will just have the ambulance follow us during the next holiday. Just kidding. :)
Brad brought her into the clinic on Monday the 19th. The doctor just said she had a bad cold & an ear infection. She said her fever would go away and she should start feeling better by Wednesday and then they sent him home with a perscription.
We just knew there was something else going on. She certainly wasn't acting herself and she remained lethargic all day. She continued to have a fever and hadn't eaten a thing since Friday (the 16th). We couldn't even get her to look at us. She would just lay around and stare off into the distance. We monitored her all night and then Brad brought her back into the clinic on Tuesday (I was at work).
We thankfully got her regular pediatrician this time. She checked Erin's oxygen levels & took x-rays of her chest. Erin's oxygen levels were in the mid to low 80s (normal should be 100%) and her chest x-ray came back showing pneumonia on her right side. (about this time is when I arrived from work) They continued to give her some nebulizer treatments & oxygen to see if her levels would come back up. It helped a little bit, but her levels continued to dip back down afterwards.
Her doctor thought it would be best to send her to Children's hospital, but she had to go by ambulance to receive oxygen during the ride there.
Brad rode along with her in the ambulance while Emmy and I followed in my car. We sat in the Emergency Room for another couple of hours while Erin got treated/tested. Her E.R. doctor was wonderful about explaining everything going on. He did admit her into the hospital because of her oxygen levels alone, but Erin was also very dehydrated. I also mentioned to the doctor that she was a preemie. Preemies are more susceptible of getting respiratory infections. They tested Erin for RSV, put in an IV and then admitted her into the hospital.
During the hospital stay Erin had short bursts of energy that tended to wipe her out pretty quickly. She tested positive for RSV which doctors told us probably brought on the pneumonia. She developed a rash and continued to be treated for her double ear infection. Her fever remained all week until Friday. She didn't eat anything until Thursday - almost a week from when she started getting sick. She got fluids and antibiotics through her IV.
The doctors told us that she had to breathe on her own (without the help of oxygen) for 24 hrs AND have oxygen levels into the 90s before she would get discharged. They tried weaning her off the oxygen a few times & also spaced out her neb treatments to every four hours but eventually had to go back to her previous routine.
Erin became very irritable in the hospital. By Friday she was starting to get sick of being in her room and stuck in her crib. She didn't want me to look at her & she wasn't happy with the nurses that came into her room.
We eventually got approval to take Erin for a wagon ride around the 6th floor. Erin really loved being out of her room and anytime we got close to her room she would freak out and point to go the other way.
Daddy stayed with Erin in the hospital all week while I stayed home with Emmy and made several trips up to the hospital. My mom came up to help watch Emmy too so that both Brad & I could be there with Erin.
Erin was a daddy's girl before but now she's really attached at the hip with all their bonding this past week. If you thought it was bad before how much Erin tugged on Brad's leg...it's way worse now!
Emmy was not allowed to go up to Erin's room. The hospital had a strict policy about any kids under the age of five. However, on Christmas Eve our nurse had told us if we could sneak Emmy past security, she could allow her up to Erin's room for a few minutes. We ended up doing the same thing on Christmas Day.
The doctor finally gave us approval to go home on Christmas Day! I think the next holiday will be celebrated a little bit early in our family since we tend to get sick on those occasions. Also, I think I will just have the ambulance follow us during the next holiday. Just kidding. :)
These were both taken when she was starting to feel a little bit better.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Children's Choir
Emmy sang in the children's choir at church yesterday. They sang three songs. How precious!! She did pretty good, but was a little shy I think.
She's right in front with the pink dress.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Santa
Santa had to hide around the corner and then the girls got comfortable playing with some toys that they brought out. Erin was having a fit. Santa snuck back in the picture without Erin knowing.
I had been prepping Emmy for a few weeks before our appointment. I told her that Santa was a nice man and that he brings presents to all the good girls and boys. I told her that if she wanted to see her cousins Maya, Madi & Shelby, she would have to sit with Santa. A little bribery doesn't hurt.
Santa asked Emmy what she wanted for Christmas. She said, "A toothbrush." I think she remembers him from last year. He handed out toothbrushes to all the kids.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Weekend News
Our church has this great event called "Parent Night Out" once a month. Parent Night Out is a great opportunity for us to get out while safe child care is provided for our children. It’s a great chance for our kids to strengthen their faith through awesome and exciting faith-based activities.
Brad and I decided to take advantage of it because we haven't really been on a date in a very long time. I was amazed at how many parents take advantage of this event. There must have been over 60 kids at the church. The event is from 6:00 - 10:00 and the parents are free to do whatever they choose. The church suggests $10 per child but you can donate whatever you would like.
Erin spent her time in the nursery while Emmy got to make crafts and watch a movie with kids her age.
Brad and I went to a movie at the cheap theater. There wasn't really anything worth watching at the other theater down the street. We actually spent less money for two tickets, popcorn and pop than it would have cost for one ticket at the more expensive theater down the street.
We are both looking forward to doing this again next month! The kids really loved it!
On Saturday we went shopping for a mattress and box spring for Emmy's room. Her crib is a convertible and is currently set up as a toddler bed. It converts to a full size bed. We want to get her into a "Big Girl" bed and also in hopes that she will stop coming into our room at night.
Looking back, I would have just converted from a crib to a full size bed now knowing how expensive the conversion kits cost, etc.
After shopping at a few places, we decided to purchase from Sears. They had the best deal...But, we can't pick it up until next Friday.
We are slowly getting her room redecorated. Brad painted her room last week. We went from a pale yellow to a pale pink and have added a few pink accessories. I will take pictures as soon as we get everything finished.
Emmy is excited about her new room. She shows everyone that comes to the house. We got her some new fuzzy sheets for her full size bed and we are trying them out on her toddler bed. So far she has stayed in her bed two nights in a row. Yesterday morning, she didn't want to get out of her bed. She said, "Mommy, I'm warm in here. I don't want to get out of bed."
On Sunday we went to church. Emmy's class is singing during the service next Sunday, so we are looking forward to watching that.
We also did some Christmas shopping this weekend. I've found some good deals on toys this year. I haven't wrapped anything yet because I'm sure the girls will try to open them as soon as I put them under the tree.
Brad and I decided to take advantage of it because we haven't really been on a date in a very long time. I was amazed at how many parents take advantage of this event. There must have been over 60 kids at the church. The event is from 6:00 - 10:00 and the parents are free to do whatever they choose. The church suggests $10 per child but you can donate whatever you would like.
Erin spent her time in the nursery while Emmy got to make crafts and watch a movie with kids her age.
Brad and I went to a movie at the cheap theater. There wasn't really anything worth watching at the other theater down the street. We actually spent less money for two tickets, popcorn and pop than it would have cost for one ticket at the more expensive theater down the street.
We are both looking forward to doing this again next month! The kids really loved it!
On Saturday we went shopping for a mattress and box spring for Emmy's room. Her crib is a convertible and is currently set up as a toddler bed. It converts to a full size bed. We want to get her into a "Big Girl" bed and also in hopes that she will stop coming into our room at night.
Looking back, I would have just converted from a crib to a full size bed now knowing how expensive the conversion kits cost, etc.
After shopping at a few places, we decided to purchase from Sears. They had the best deal...But, we can't pick it up until next Friday.
We are slowly getting her room redecorated. Brad painted her room last week. We went from a pale yellow to a pale pink and have added a few pink accessories. I will take pictures as soon as we get everything finished.
Emmy is excited about her new room. She shows everyone that comes to the house. We got her some new fuzzy sheets for her full size bed and we are trying them out on her toddler bed. So far she has stayed in her bed two nights in a row. Yesterday morning, she didn't want to get out of her bed. She said, "Mommy, I'm warm in here. I don't want to get out of bed."
On Sunday we went to church. Emmy's class is singing during the service next Sunday, so we are looking forward to watching that.
We also did some Christmas shopping this weekend. I've found some good deals on toys this year. I haven't wrapped anything yet because I'm sure the girls will try to open them as soon as I put them under the tree.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
E...M...M...Y
Emmy: "Mommy, Hadley's name starts with an 'H' and Nathan's name starts with an 'N.'" (daycare friends)
Me: "What does your name start with?"
Emmy: "Mine starts with an E. E...M...M...Y" (spelling her name)
Me: "Wow Emmy, you spelled your name!!! Good Job! WooHoo!"
She's been starting to write her name now for a few months. She can write the 'E' and 'Y' pretty good.
She also knows all of her letters in the alphabet. If I wear something that has letters on it, she will point to each letter and say them out loud. The other day I had a Monte Mohawk t-shirt on so she spelled out M-o-h-a-w-k and then we shouted "Let's go Mohawks!"
She knows her left from her right and puts on her own shoes (on the right feet too). :)
The other day she was trying to tie a pair of shoes.
Me: "What does your name start with?"
Emmy: "Mine starts with an E. E...M...M...Y" (spelling her name)
Me: "Wow Emmy, you spelled your name!!! Good Job! WooHoo!"
She's been starting to write her name now for a few months. She can write the 'E' and 'Y' pretty good.
She also knows all of her letters in the alphabet. If I wear something that has letters on it, she will point to each letter and say them out loud. The other day I had a Monte Mohawk t-shirt on so she spelled out M-o-h-a-w-k and then we shouted "Let's go Mohawks!"
She knows her left from her right and puts on her own shoes (on the right feet too). :)
The other day she was trying to tie a pair of shoes.
Monday, December 5, 2011
Talking
Erin is saying more words as each day comes and goes. Just in the last few days she has added Santa, Emmy, Dog and Wow to her list of words. She's trying hard every day!! Woohoo!
Hockel Christmas
We celebrated Christmas with grandma Bev in St. James this weekend. It was also her birthday!
In the afternoon the girls made personal bracelets while the men played cribbage. We then had our annual prime rib dinner, which is always yummy, followed by gift opening.
Grandma Bev gave all of her grand kids a special book called Heaven is for Real. It's a true story of a four-year old boy of a small town Nebraska pastor who during emergency surgery slips from consciousness and enters heaven. He survives and begins talking about being able to look down and see the doctor operating and his dad praying in the waiting room. We will enjoy reading the book. I've started reading it already.
It's always fun to get together with family. We sure did miss grandpa Bernie, but I know he was with us in spirit.
The kids all had so much fun playing together. It's just fun to sit back and watch them play and hear their giggles.
I asked Emmy on the way home what her favorite part about the weekend was and she said, "Maya, Madi & Shelby."
In the afternoon the girls made personal bracelets while the men played cribbage. We then had our annual prime rib dinner, which is always yummy, followed by gift opening.
Grandma Bev gave all of her grand kids a special book called Heaven is for Real. It's a true story of a four-year old boy of a small town Nebraska pastor who during emergency surgery slips from consciousness and enters heaven. He survives and begins talking about being able to look down and see the doctor operating and his dad praying in the waiting room. We will enjoy reading the book. I've started reading it already.
It's always fun to get together with family. We sure did miss grandpa Bernie, but I know he was with us in spirit.
The kids all had so much fun playing together. It's just fun to sit back and watch them play and hear their giggles.
I asked Emmy on the way home what her favorite part about the weekend was and she said, "Maya, Madi & Shelby."
Our Family of Four.
Deb & Jerry's family.
Grandma Hockel's Great Grand kids:
Shelby holding Elivia, Wyatt, Maya, Emmy, Madi, Erin, Max and Jayde-Alexis.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Hi Erin
Erin started saying Hi last night. It was so clear and so darn cute. She's also saying kitty too. She must be starting with the harder words first. Last weekend she said grandma & grandpa. She loves to say Dor for Dora when she see's Dora anywhere. She's also starting to put two words together.
She was very excited that she said Hi last night. Brad and I were so excited for her - she got so happy.
She's 21 months now and a growing girl. She's already filling into her 24 month clothing. She bypassed some of the 18 month clothes because we didn't get a chance to even wear them. :-(
She's very independent and wants to do things on her terms. She's very good at throwing fits and tantrums on the floor. She's definitely still a daddy's girl. Brad loves it.
She was very excited that she said Hi last night. Brad and I were so excited for her - she got so happy.
She's 21 months now and a growing girl. She's already filling into her 24 month clothing. She bypassed some of the 18 month clothes because we didn't get a chance to even wear them. :-(
She's very independent and wants to do things on her terms. She's very good at throwing fits and tantrums on the floor. She's definitely still a daddy's girl. Brad loves it.
Piggy Bank
On Monday I was picking up the girls from day care. I was getting the girls in the car and Emmy asked me if I was going to cook dinner that night. I normally cook dinner every night so I don't know why she was asking that question. I wasn't feeling very good so I said, "I don't know if mommy will cook tonight. I'm not feeling real well. Maybe we'll wait for daddy to get home." She asked, "If you don't cook dinner tonight mommy, can we go to McDonald's?" I replied, "Mommy doesn't have her purse with her honey." Emmy responds..."I have money in my piggy bank mommy. Can we go home and get it and then go and get some chicken nuggets?"
It was pretty cute, however, we didn't go back to McDonald's. That stuff is so dang gross and after my episode with my gallbladder, I'm hopeful we won't be there for a long time.
It was pretty cute, however, we didn't go back to McDonald's. That stuff is so dang gross and after my episode with my gallbladder, I'm hopeful we won't be there for a long time.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Thanksgiving Surgery
In the weeee hours on Thanksgiving morning I awoke with what I thought was terrible heartburn. I tossed and turned from 1 - 3 am. We were at Brad's parents house so I got up and started looking for some antacids. I could only find Rolaids. I took a couple of those and went back to my room. I sat for another 20 minutes contemplating if I should take the 20 minute drive to Alexandria to get some Maalox.
I woke Brad up and told him I was driving to Alex. I couldn't take it anymore. He didn't want me going alone so he got dressed and came along. We got to Wal-Mart and I bought some Zantac and Maalox. Brad bought some Pepto for himself since he was feeling a bit crappy too.
We got to the car and I took my antacids, but none of it stayed down. We sat in the parking lot for another hour or so. Brad told me to take the Pepto. I have never been one to like Pepto Bismol. The thick, pink, crappy stuff just makes me nauseous thinking about it. I psyched myself up to take it...plugged my nose and drank half of the dose gagging and saying OKLAHOMA as it went down. YUCK!!!
I asked Brad how long it would take before it would kick in and he said it should be immediately. I waited another ten minutes but nothing was taking the pain away.
I drove to the Alexandria E.R. and contemplated going in because I felt foolish for going in for indigestion. This same pain has happened to me at least three times before. I went to the doctor a few years ago and was told it was indigestion.
I felt that this pain was too intense to go back home to Hoffman so I checked myself in to the ER.
The doctor came in and poked around a bit, they ran some tests and told me they thought it was my gallbladder. They sent me to get an ultrasound and it showed that my gallbladder was full of stones.
The doctor came back to the room and said he could send me home on pain medication so that I could celebrate Thanksgiving but I would have to schedule surgery within one week.
I opted to do the surgery right away because the pain medication that they had me on in the ER was Fentanyl and is supposed to be 100 times stronger than Morphine. I was getting a dose of Fentanyl every 20 minutes. I figured that whatever the medication I was going to get sent home with wouldn't be enough to get me through the pain and I didn't want to be all drugged up.
We met the surgeon and I got prepped for surgery right away. The surgery lasted about an hour and then I was in recovery for I think 30-45 minutes. I can't remember much of that as I was coming in and out of anesthesia.
The surgeon explained to Brad that he was glad I decided to have the surgery because he said my gallbladder was really bad, full of scar tissue, and full of stones. He said it hadn't been functioning for a long time and he was shocked that I had put up with the pain this long.
The surgery was done Laparascopically so I have four incisions on my belly. I had to stay in the hospital overnight. My Thanksgiving meal was chicken broth, jello, crackers and milk. Brad's mom sent over some leftover Thanksgiving dinner for Brad to eat.
I'm thankful for the wonderful care I received during my stay at the Douglas County Hospital. They have been named one of the nation's Top 100 Hospitals. :)
I think our family has something about holidays/celebrations... I got sick on our wedding day, Erin had pneumonia during Christmas last year, both the girls got sick on the 4th of July last year and now I was sick on Thanksgiving. I'm telling you...it's the Gort curse.
I woke Brad up and told him I was driving to Alex. I couldn't take it anymore. He didn't want me going alone so he got dressed and came along. We got to Wal-Mart and I bought some Zantac and Maalox. Brad bought some Pepto for himself since he was feeling a bit crappy too.
We got to the car and I took my antacids, but none of it stayed down. We sat in the parking lot for another hour or so. Brad told me to take the Pepto. I have never been one to like Pepto Bismol. The thick, pink, crappy stuff just makes me nauseous thinking about it. I psyched myself up to take it...plugged my nose and drank half of the dose gagging and saying OKLAHOMA as it went down. YUCK!!!
I asked Brad how long it would take before it would kick in and he said it should be immediately. I waited another ten minutes but nothing was taking the pain away.
I drove to the Alexandria E.R. and contemplated going in because I felt foolish for going in for indigestion. This same pain has happened to me at least three times before. I went to the doctor a few years ago and was told it was indigestion.
I felt that this pain was too intense to go back home to Hoffman so I checked myself in to the ER.
The doctor came in and poked around a bit, they ran some tests and told me they thought it was my gallbladder. They sent me to get an ultrasound and it showed that my gallbladder was full of stones.
The doctor came back to the room and said he could send me home on pain medication so that I could celebrate Thanksgiving but I would have to schedule surgery within one week.
I opted to do the surgery right away because the pain medication that they had me on in the ER was Fentanyl and is supposed to be 100 times stronger than Morphine. I was getting a dose of Fentanyl every 20 minutes. I figured that whatever the medication I was going to get sent home with wouldn't be enough to get me through the pain and I didn't want to be all drugged up.
We met the surgeon and I got prepped for surgery right away. The surgery lasted about an hour and then I was in recovery for I think 30-45 minutes. I can't remember much of that as I was coming in and out of anesthesia.
The surgeon explained to Brad that he was glad I decided to have the surgery because he said my gallbladder was really bad, full of scar tissue, and full of stones. He said it hadn't been functioning for a long time and he was shocked that I had put up with the pain this long.
The surgery was done Laparascopically so I have four incisions on my belly. I had to stay in the hospital overnight. My Thanksgiving meal was chicken broth, jello, crackers and milk. Brad's mom sent over some leftover Thanksgiving dinner for Brad to eat.
I'm thankful for the wonderful care I received during my stay at the Douglas County Hospital. They have been named one of the nation's Top 100 Hospitals. :)
I think our family has something about holidays/celebrations... I got sick on our wedding day, Erin had pneumonia during Christmas last year, both the girls got sick on the 4th of July last year and now I was sick on Thanksgiving. I'm telling you...it's the Gort curse.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Brain Fart
Wednesdays are my days to drop off & pick up the girls from day care as Brad has conference calls early Wednesday morning. Usually Brad drops the girls off in the morning and then I pick them up in the afternoon otherwise.
However, today I exited onto I-94 just as I would to go to work. I hear this little voice from the back seat say, "Mommy, we're going this way?" UGH! My mind is so programmed to just take the same route each day and I guess I was programmed to go straight to work.
I had to drive up to the next exit and turn around to bring the girls back to Dar's. Emmy thought it was pretty funny and was telling everyone when she arrived at day care.
Good thing she has a great sense of direction. :)
However, today I exited onto I-94 just as I would to go to work. I hear this little voice from the back seat say, "Mommy, we're going this way?" UGH! My mind is so programmed to just take the same route each day and I guess I was programmed to go straight to work.
I had to drive up to the next exit and turn around to bring the girls back to Dar's. Emmy thought it was pretty funny and was telling everyone when she arrived at day care.
Good thing she has a great sense of direction. :)
Monday, November 21, 2011
Emmy's 1st Dollar
We were at a restaurant this weekend with some family members. Emmy was with my cousin's little girl checking out all of the fun items in the lobby - (the digger machine, gumball machine, coloring books, etc. All the fun things to attract a child & not sit at the table and eat their food).
A woman walked in from outside and was waiting patiently to be seated, Emmy asked her if she had any money. The lady replied, "I sure do. How much do you need?" Emmy responds, "Three dollars." The woman then dug in her purse and gave Emmy three dollars.
I found out about this a little while later and was so embarrassed. I told Emmy she should give the money back to the lady. She tried to give it back, but the lady was so amused by Emmy that she told her to keep it and buy something nice. She said that she didn't have any grandchildren of her own, so she didn't mind doing this sort of thing and actually thought it was really funny.
Oh Emmy, I think we're going to frame your first made dollar. Since you're asking random people for money, next time ask for a cool million!
A woman walked in from outside and was waiting patiently to be seated, Emmy asked her if she had any money. The lady replied, "I sure do. How much do you need?" Emmy responds, "Three dollars." The woman then dug in her purse and gave Emmy three dollars.
I found out about this a little while later and was so embarrassed. I told Emmy she should give the money back to the lady. She tried to give it back, but the lady was so amused by Emmy that she told her to keep it and buy something nice. She said that she didn't have any grandchildren of her own, so she didn't mind doing this sort of thing and actually thought it was really funny.
Oh Emmy, I think we're going to frame your first made dollar. Since you're asking random people for money, next time ask for a cool million!
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Follow-up on knees
I had an MRI on my knees last Thursday and got the results back yesterday. My Orthopedic doctor said that the MRI came back normal, however I do have Quad Tendinitis in both knees along with water on my knees & some bone degeneration. How in the heck does this make an MRI normal?? Anyway, at the same time I am relieved to hear it isn't anything more major and I'm still able to walk and my ticker still works. :)
The doctor tested the fluid in my knees to see if I had Gout. That test came back normal. So he gave me a cortisone shot in my right knee and said if it felt better, to come back in three weeks to get a shot in my left knee. So far, I don't feel much difference but I do know that it takes a couple of days for the shot to kick in.
I've been putting up with this pain for around two years. I don't know how or what it came from other than maybe volleyball, but it's been a few years since I've done any of that.
The pain has gradually gotten worse over the last few months and the only thing the doctor told me to do is rest my legs. So at work I prop up my legs on top of my computer. It does take the ache away...but only temporarily. Sleeping is terrible because I sleep with my legs curled which makes the pain worse. I wake up at night and have to pull my legs straight. The Dr told me to sleep on my back but I can't sleep when I'm laying flat on my back. I have pain when I walk up stairs, bending, curling, and any time I put pressure on them. So, I hope to have some long term relief from this cortisone shot.
If it does not work, then my next option is a leg brace. How nice is that going to look? Yippee.
I just hope it gets better. The doctor said the pain will eventually go away. Okay then, hurry up and go away pain...I've had enough of you!
The Dr. said I'm not a candidate for knee surgery right now. Probably too young I'm guessing. If I had any tingling in my toes, then he would consider it.
I still think this pain is all somehow connected to my back pain. My MRI on that showed the disc bulge and degeneration. Since last November I have had two steroid injections in my spine. I saw immediate relief in both my back and my knees. However, the relief only lasted a few weeks, but it was the best few weeks of my life! The doctors seem to think a few weeks of relief is great. I'm thankful to get relief, but was also looking for some more long term relief.
I have taken Ibuprofen, Medrol dose pack, muscle relaxers (HATE those. I actually had to sleep under my desk at work one day because the damn pill knocked me out LOL!), iced my knees and back, as well as physical therapy, but none of it seems to help.
Next time you see me I just may be in a full leg brace.
The doctor tested the fluid in my knees to see if I had Gout. That test came back normal. So he gave me a cortisone shot in my right knee and said if it felt better, to come back in three weeks to get a shot in my left knee. So far, I don't feel much difference but I do know that it takes a couple of days for the shot to kick in.
I've been putting up with this pain for around two years. I don't know how or what it came from other than maybe volleyball, but it's been a few years since I've done any of that.
The pain has gradually gotten worse over the last few months and the only thing the doctor told me to do is rest my legs. So at work I prop up my legs on top of my computer. It does take the ache away...but only temporarily. Sleeping is terrible because I sleep with my legs curled which makes the pain worse. I wake up at night and have to pull my legs straight. The Dr told me to sleep on my back but I can't sleep when I'm laying flat on my back. I have pain when I walk up stairs, bending, curling, and any time I put pressure on them. So, I hope to have some long term relief from this cortisone shot.
If it does not work, then my next option is a leg brace. How nice is that going to look? Yippee.
I just hope it gets better. The doctor said the pain will eventually go away. Okay then, hurry up and go away pain...I've had enough of you!
The Dr. said I'm not a candidate for knee surgery right now. Probably too young I'm guessing. If I had any tingling in my toes, then he would consider it.
I still think this pain is all somehow connected to my back pain. My MRI on that showed the disc bulge and degeneration. Since last November I have had two steroid injections in my spine. I saw immediate relief in both my back and my knees. However, the relief only lasted a few weeks, but it was the best few weeks of my life! The doctors seem to think a few weeks of relief is great. I'm thankful to get relief, but was also looking for some more long term relief.
I have taken Ibuprofen, Medrol dose pack, muscle relaxers (HATE those. I actually had to sleep under my desk at work one day because the damn pill knocked me out LOL!), iced my knees and back, as well as physical therapy, but none of it seems to help.
Next time you see me I just may be in a full leg brace.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
More Jibber Jabber
Erin is starting to talk a bit more. She now says NO! Along with mama, dada, DADDDDDDEEEEEEEE, shoes, cheese, more, done, uh oh, and ah ha. She's starting to mumble a few other words but we can't quite make them out yet.
She continues to use sign language: more, milk, hello, bye bye, eat, all done, I don't know, please, and thank you.
At her 18 month check up her doctor tested her ears with a Tympanogram.
It basically tests the condition of the middle ear and mobility of the eardrum by creating variations of air pressure in the ear canal. Her pediatrician recommended doing this because she thought it could have been a reason why Erin wasn't talking very much.
I brought her into the clinic to get retested after two months and that particular doctor said it wasn't necessary and wouldn't be effective since Erin just had a recent ear infection.
Other Milestones...
Erin knows how old she is by raising her pointer finger.
She gets really excited when she sees animals. LOVES them!! She also gets hyper when she sees pictures of herself. She loves to point out airplanes. She loves to play with my iPhone & iPad. Dang kids know how to use these gadgets better than I do.
She loves to do the "Wheels on the bus" song. She knows most of the hand movements, etc and mumbles All & Town when we sing the "All through the town" part.
She continues to use sign language: more, milk, hello, bye bye, eat, all done, I don't know, please, and thank you.
At her 18 month check up her doctor tested her ears with a Tympanogram.
It basically tests the condition of the middle ear and mobility of the eardrum by creating variations of air pressure in the ear canal. Her pediatrician recommended doing this because she thought it could have been a reason why Erin wasn't talking very much.
I brought her into the clinic to get retested after two months and that particular doctor said it wasn't necessary and wouldn't be effective since Erin just had a recent ear infection.
Other Milestones...
Erin knows how old she is by raising her pointer finger.
She gets really excited when she sees animals. LOVES them!! She also gets hyper when she sees pictures of herself. She loves to point out airplanes. She loves to play with my iPhone & iPad. Dang kids know how to use these gadgets better than I do.
She loves to do the "Wheels on the bus" song. She knows most of the hand movements, etc and mumbles All & Town when we sing the "All through the town" part.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Left & Right
We love to do the Hokey Pokey at home with the kids. Emmy has learned her left from her right. She also tells daddy which way to go on the way to Gymnastics.
The other day I was driving the girls to daycare. I was making a right turn just as Emmy was yelling from the back seat..."Turn Right! Turn Right! Turn Right!" I said, "Yeah! I am turning right." Emmy responds, "No, the other right. Right McDonald's." And yes, McDonald's is on our right on the way to daycare. :)
No, I did not stop. Which fully erupted into a crap load of bad behavior from the back seat.
The other day I was driving the girls to daycare. I was making a right turn just as Emmy was yelling from the back seat..."Turn Right! Turn Right! Turn Right!" I said, "Yeah! I am turning right." Emmy responds, "No, the other right. Right McDonald's." And yes, McDonald's is on our right on the way to daycare. :)
No, I did not stop. Which fully erupted into a crap load of bad behavior from the back seat.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Rest in Peace Grandpa Bernie
Brad's grandpa Bernie passed away peacefully on Monday, October 17th at the age of 83. Bernie & Bev had just celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary that prior Thursday. On Monday afternoon they made their flight arrangements to fly back to their winter home in Arizona. Moments later, he sat down in his rocking chair and "fell asleep." Grandma Bev ended up in the hospital with Broken Heart Syndrome. Examples of true love...through good times and bad.
Bernie Harold Hockel was born on May 27, 1928 to Sam and Inga (Langeland) Hockel on the home farm in Cedar Township, Martin County, Minnesota just south of St. Olaf Lutheran Church. He was received into the kingdom of God through Holy Baptism on June 17, 1928 and reaffirmed his faith at his Confirmation on June 7, 1942 both at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in rural Odin. On October 13, 1951, he was united in marriage to Beverly Jean VanOver at the Church Parsonage in Odin, Minnesota. He was grateful for the forty-years of farming which was his pride and joy. Moving off the farm was a major transition for Bev and Bernie but they found new joy in their new home and new neighbors in St. James. He and his wife spent over thirty-five years wintering in Mesa, Arizona. Bernie held several positions in his church, St. Olaf Lutheran of Odin, as well in community organizations. He loved to go camping with his friends, traveling and fishing. He also enjoyed golfing, bowling, playing pool and cards. Above all he loved being with his family and grandchildren who were especially very close to him.
Survivors include his wife of sixty-years, Beverly Hockel of St. James, Minnesota; two daughters, Deb (Jerry) Krusemark of Hoffman, Minnesota and Connie (Guy) Risty of St. James, Minnesota; six grandchildren, Scott (Melissa) Krusemark and their children, Elizabeth and William; Tony (Christy) Krusemark and their children, Shelby, Madisen and Maya;Bradley (Gina) Krusemark and their children, Emmy and Erin; Jennifer (Wayne) Kinneman and their children, Dalton, Gabriel, Seth and Colten; Sarah (Richard) Huffman and their children, Maxwill and Elivia; John Michael (Lindsay) Kremmin and their children, Wyatt and Jayde-Alexis; several nieces and nephews and other relatives and friends.
Bernie was preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Inga Hockel; son, Bradley; brothers, Harlin (Celista) Hockel, Ordean (Myra) Hockel and many cousins, in –laws and friends.
Each of Bernie's grandchildren, their spouses, & great grandchildren were asked to write down at least one memory of Grandpa Bernie to be read during the funeral. Each memory was so very touching. Below are just our memories of Bernie.
For Brad: When we were young and would get in trouble, grandpa would grab the little tiny hairs on the back of your neck and pull up. It worked every time.
I remember rock picking and working on the farm with grandpa. He was so meticulous and loved planning parties…Getting everything just right.
When I just got my driver’s license, grandpa let me drive his new Cadillac. He wanted to show me how much power it had, so he told me to floor it.
For Gina: My favorite memory of Bernie is from our wedding day. During our wedding dance he asked me to sit on his lap. He said he felt like the luckiest guy in the world having the bride on his lap. He also noticed all of the little details that we put into the big day. Most guys don’t even notice those types of things, but Bernie did. I always thought it was so special.
Another one of my favorites was when Brad and I visited Bernie & Bev out in Arizona. I was pregnant with Emmy and had morning sickness as we were all driving down the road. I made Brad pull over so that I could get out of the car. I got back into the car and shut the door. Bernie asked what was wrong and I said, morning sickness. Later that afternoon, Bernie asked Brad to pull the car over. He opened his door, spit out his chew and said, “Morning Sickness.”
For Emmy: Bernie always called Emmy his little dolly every time he would see her. Emmy always called him “Grandpa Ernie.”
For Erin: Erin is a busy bee and doesn’t like to sit still EVER. Whenever Bernie was around she would always cuddle with him in his recliner.
Rest in peace grandpa Bernie. Thank you for the great memories. Much Love!
Until we meet again...
Bernie Harold Hockel was born on May 27, 1928 to Sam and Inga (Langeland) Hockel on the home farm in Cedar Township, Martin County, Minnesota just south of St. Olaf Lutheran Church. He was received into the kingdom of God through Holy Baptism on June 17, 1928 and reaffirmed his faith at his Confirmation on June 7, 1942 both at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in rural Odin. On October 13, 1951, he was united in marriage to Beverly Jean VanOver at the Church Parsonage in Odin, Minnesota. He was grateful for the forty-years of farming which was his pride and joy. Moving off the farm was a major transition for Bev and Bernie but they found new joy in their new home and new neighbors in St. James. He and his wife spent over thirty-five years wintering in Mesa, Arizona. Bernie held several positions in his church, St. Olaf Lutheran of Odin, as well in community organizations. He loved to go camping with his friends, traveling and fishing. He also enjoyed golfing, bowling, playing pool and cards. Above all he loved being with his family and grandchildren who were especially very close to him.
Survivors include his wife of sixty-years, Beverly Hockel of St. James, Minnesota; two daughters, Deb (Jerry) Krusemark of Hoffman, Minnesota and Connie (Guy) Risty of St. James, Minnesota; six grandchildren, Scott (Melissa) Krusemark and their children, Elizabeth and William; Tony (Christy) Krusemark and their children, Shelby, Madisen and Maya;Bradley (Gina) Krusemark and their children, Emmy and Erin; Jennifer (Wayne) Kinneman and their children, Dalton, Gabriel, Seth and Colten; Sarah (Richard) Huffman and their children, Maxwill and Elivia; John Michael (Lindsay) Kremmin and their children, Wyatt and Jayde-Alexis; several nieces and nephews and other relatives and friends.
Bernie was preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Inga Hockel; son, Bradley; brothers, Harlin (Celista) Hockel, Ordean (Myra) Hockel and many cousins, in –laws and friends.
Each of Bernie's grandchildren, their spouses, & great grandchildren were asked to write down at least one memory of Grandpa Bernie to be read during the funeral. Each memory was so very touching. Below are just our memories of Bernie.
For Brad: When we were young and would get in trouble, grandpa would grab the little tiny hairs on the back of your neck and pull up. It worked every time.
I remember rock picking and working on the farm with grandpa. He was so meticulous and loved planning parties…Getting everything just right.
When I just got my driver’s license, grandpa let me drive his new Cadillac. He wanted to show me how much power it had, so he told me to floor it.
For Gina: My favorite memory of Bernie is from our wedding day. During our wedding dance he asked me to sit on his lap. He said he felt like the luckiest guy in the world having the bride on his lap. He also noticed all of the little details that we put into the big day. Most guys don’t even notice those types of things, but Bernie did. I always thought it was so special.
Another one of my favorites was when Brad and I visited Bernie & Bev out in Arizona. I was pregnant with Emmy and had morning sickness as we were all driving down the road. I made Brad pull over so that I could get out of the car. I got back into the car and shut the door. Bernie asked what was wrong and I said, morning sickness. Later that afternoon, Bernie asked Brad to pull the car over. He opened his door, spit out his chew and said, “Morning Sickness.”
For Emmy: Bernie always called Emmy his little dolly every time he would see her. Emmy always called him “Grandpa Ernie.”
For Erin: Erin is a busy bee and doesn’t like to sit still EVER. Whenever Bernie was around she would always cuddle with him in his recliner.
Rest in peace grandpa Bernie. Thank you for the great memories. Much Love!
Until we meet again...
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Farm Livin'
We took the girls to the Eveland Family Farm again this year. It's the perfect little farm with all kinds of animals roaming the grounds along with a huge pumpkin patch. The girls enjoyed the fainting goats...none of them got scared enough to faint though. Erin got scared by a huge pot belly pig. He stuck his snout right between her legs. :)
The farm has all kinds of animals that you can get close to. Even the cows came up to us during our hay ride. It turned out to be a beautiful day. The girls had fun picking out their own pumpkins.
The farm has all kinds of animals that you can get close to. Even the cows came up to us during our hay ride. It turned out to be a beautiful day. The girls had fun picking out their own pumpkins.
Emmy's Surgery
Last month we saw a surgeon regarding Emmy's lump on her face. Emmy calls her lump a mosquito bite. The surgeon looked/felt her lump and said it was a cyst and recommended having it removed. He said that if we were to leave it, eventually it would grow and become painful.
We scheduled her surgery for the following week at Children's. Emmy was such a trooper and had no worries. It's definitely more hard on us as parents to see her go through all of this...even though it was a relatively easy surgery.
The surgery took approximately 20 minutes. The surgeon came out to meet with us after the surgery and told us that Emmy did just fine and that the cyst was exactly what he thought it was. We waited a few more minutes before they called our names to go meet her in the recovery room. It took her a little while to come out of anesthesia. When she did wake up, the nurses pampered her with crackers, a Popsicle and juice.
The whole procedure from surgery to recovery took about three hours.
She has a half inch incision on her left cheek right by her ear. The doctor gave her a few stitches and then covered it with steri strips. He instructed us to limit "horseplay." {cough} how do you keep a three year old from jumping off of the couch, etc? Anyway...that means no gymnastics for two weeks. It's okay for her to continue going to dance class & swimming.
We still haven't found out any results from the surgery. The surgeon told us to follow up with him within a month and if there was any results from pathology, he would give us a call. We see the surgeon next week...I'm assuming everything is just fine at this point.
Emmy got more pampering the rest of the day after surgery. We brought her to Target so that she could pick out a new choo choo train set.
I haven't been able to look at her incision/scar yet. Emmy won't let us take off the strips. The doctor just said to leave them on until they fall off.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Summer Vacation - Wisconsin Dells
If you are looking for a truly memorable vacation, I highly suggest going to the Wilderness Resort at Wisconsin Dells. We couldn't have asked for a better vacation with the girls. It was absolutely perfect!!
We stayed in the Glacier Canyon part of the resort and upgraded to the kitchen suite. It really wasn't that much more and I'm so glad that we got the kitchen. It would have been difficult packing up the wet kids and heading out to eat for every meal. This way, we were able to just run up to our room and make a quick meal. I packed & organized for all three days that we would be there. I planned our menu for every day. It was pretty easy stuff.
Our hotel room was more like an apartment. It had a "cabin/up north" feel to it. It was furnished with everything that we would need at home and was wonderful! I didn't even have to bring utensils. Emmy even got her very own Murphy Bed. She thought that was pretty cool.
The water park passes are included with the hotel and are exclusive to registered guests. So that means no outsiders are allowed into the water parks. This helps keep it quiet. We actually didn't have to wait in any lines and there weren't that many crowds. We lucked out and got there at the perfect time - right before Labor Day.
The resort has four outdoor pools & four indoor pools. We got to swim in all of them but one of the outdoor pools - it was raining on our last day so we couldn't check out that one. The park has so many things to do for all ages. I really wanted to check out the arcade! It was HUGE!!!
The girls had so much fun in the water parks. Our favorite pool ended up being the one closest to our hotel room. It was new, kid friendly, had water slides, an outdoor lazy river with tube slide and a bar.
Did I mention it had a bar? Well, we didn't get to use it that much. Maybe once.
Emmy and I enjoyed the lazy river. Erin didn't want to sit in her tube so she hung out with Brad while Emmy & I relaxed.
Emmy and I checked out the wave pool too. We were having a blast in our double tube and I was hitting the waves just right when all of a sudden a huge wave was coming towards us and I had no time to paddle away. We tipped over - thank God Emmy was wearing her life jacket. It scared the crap out of me. I couldn't find her right away and then I felt her grab me from behind.
Okay...I probably shouldn't have had her out there with me, but we were having so much fun and Emmy was giggling.
I think we will be making this into an annual trip. We had such a blast and I can't wait to do it again next year! Who's going to join us!?!?
We stayed in the Glacier Canyon part of the resort and upgraded to the kitchen suite. It really wasn't that much more and I'm so glad that we got the kitchen. It would have been difficult packing up the wet kids and heading out to eat for every meal. This way, we were able to just run up to our room and make a quick meal. I packed & organized for all three days that we would be there. I planned our menu for every day. It was pretty easy stuff.
Our hotel room was more like an apartment. It had a "cabin/up north" feel to it. It was furnished with everything that we would need at home and was wonderful! I didn't even have to bring utensils. Emmy even got her very own Murphy Bed. She thought that was pretty cool.
The water park passes are included with the hotel and are exclusive to registered guests. So that means no outsiders are allowed into the water parks. This helps keep it quiet. We actually didn't have to wait in any lines and there weren't that many crowds. We lucked out and got there at the perfect time - right before Labor Day.
The resort has four outdoor pools & four indoor pools. We got to swim in all of them but one of the outdoor pools - it was raining on our last day so we couldn't check out that one. The park has so many things to do for all ages. I really wanted to check out the arcade! It was HUGE!!!
The girls had so much fun in the water parks. Our favorite pool ended up being the one closest to our hotel room. It was new, kid friendly, had water slides, an outdoor lazy river with tube slide and a bar.
Did I mention it had a bar? Well, we didn't get to use it that much. Maybe once.
Emmy and I enjoyed the lazy river. Erin didn't want to sit in her tube so she hung out with Brad while Emmy & I relaxed.
Emmy and I checked out the wave pool too. We were having a blast in our double tube and I was hitting the waves just right when all of a sudden a huge wave was coming towards us and I had no time to paddle away. We tipped over - thank God Emmy was wearing her life jacket. It scared the crap out of me. I couldn't find her right away and then I felt her grab me from behind.
Okay...I probably shouldn't have had her out there with me, but we were having so much fun and Emmy was giggling.
I think we will be making this into an annual trip. We had such a blast and I can't wait to do it again next year! Who's going to join us!?!?
Look Mom, No Cavities!
Emmy's 1st dentist appointment last month went well. She sat really still & let them do their thing. She has no cavities and the dentist said that her teeth were spaced apart really well except for the two top middle teeth. She was excited when she got done because they gave her a new toothbrush, tooth paste, a sticker & two coupons for free ice cream at Dairy Queen.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Fall Activities
Our schedule is very busy each week. Emmy is currently enrolled into gymnastics, dance, and swimming lessons. Each class is once per week and is approximately 30-45 minutes. She loves going to all of them and is learning new things each week.
We usually hang out in the waiting area during dance lessons. Every classroom has video cameras so that all the parents are able to watch their kids on TV in the waiting area during class. Emmy loves to show us her moves when we get home. She loves to "shuffle step." She's got some pretty cute rhythm for her age.
She's improving well at swimming lessons. She's keeping her head in the water for at least seven seconds. Last week she swam on her own for a bit. Now we need to get Erin enrolled into the Baby Backfloat class that Emmy was in this summer. Erin loves the water!
In addition to Emmy's activities, I have started taking Jazzercise. I try to go a few times per week - I just have to find time to fit it into our busy schedule. I really like it though and it's a great workout!
Brad's hockey season will be starting soon, but will be mostly on the weekends. We are a bunch of busy bodies. Thank God for DVR or I would never get to watch my shows on TV.
We usually hang out in the waiting area during dance lessons. Every classroom has video cameras so that all the parents are able to watch their kids on TV in the waiting area during class. Emmy loves to show us her moves when we get home. She loves to "shuffle step." She's got some pretty cute rhythm for her age.
She's improving well at swimming lessons. She's keeping her head in the water for at least seven seconds. Last week she swam on her own for a bit. Now we need to get Erin enrolled into the Baby Backfloat class that Emmy was in this summer. Erin loves the water!
In addition to Emmy's activities, I have started taking Jazzercise. I try to go a few times per week - I just have to find time to fit it into our busy schedule. I really like it though and it's a great workout!
Brad's hockey season will be starting soon, but will be mostly on the weekends. We are a bunch of busy bodies. Thank God for DVR or I would never get to watch my shows on TV.
Sunday School
Emmy started Sunday School last month. She enjoys going to "school" and likes to learn as well as sing & do art projects. Before going into her classroom, she picks out her name badge. She knows that her name button is yellow and she can find her own name. We sign her into her classroom and then bring Erin across the hall to the nursery. When we sign Erin in, we get a buzzer to take with us into church in case if she is crying for more than 15 minutes or if she needs a diaper change...then they will buzz us. Most of the time she does just fine.
After the service was finished last Sunday, we went to pick up the girls from their classrooms. Emmy came running to us and said, "Mommy, I learned all about Jesus!" So precious!
After the service was finished last Sunday, we went to pick up the girls from their classrooms. Emmy came running to us and said, "Mommy, I learned all about Jesus!" So precious!
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Emmy's 1st Bible
Emmy received her first Bible at Lord of Life Lutheran Church on Sunday, August 28th. We started out the afternoon by making a coloring book at the church. The church school director then got up to talk about church school, etc. It's amazing how fast this church is growing. I believe Emmy has around 150 kids in her class. They divide up into different groups each Sunday - Emmy is in the Seahorse group.
After the director was finished with her speech, we then went through the coloring book to find all of the different locations of the church - sanctuary, alter, baptismal fountain, bulletins, everlasting candle, Sunday school room, etc.
The pastor then handed out everyone's bible by calling each child's name. Her name is located on the first page of the bible.
The church provided a meal for everyone after each child received their bible.
She loves to read her bible before bed each night.
The first night that I read it to her, we were talking about Jacob & Esau. She wanted to hear all about that boy named "Jake."
After the director was finished with her speech, we then went through the coloring book to find all of the different locations of the church - sanctuary, alter, baptismal fountain, bulletins, everlasting candle, Sunday school room, etc.
The pastor then handed out everyone's bible by calling each child's name. Her name is located on the first page of the bible.
The church provided a meal for everyone after each child received their bible.
She loves to read her bible before bed each night.
The first night that I read it to her, we were talking about Jacob & Esau. She wanted to hear all about that boy named "Jake."
18 Month Stats - Erin
Erin had her 18 month check up last month. She weighed 24 lbs 3.5 oz (50-75%) and was 31 1/4 inches tall (25-50%). Her head measures 49 cm (90-95%).
Emmy's stats at 18 months: She weighed 23 lbs 12 oz and was 31 1/2 inches long. Her head was 48 cm.
Yep, Erin's staying on track and is bigger than her sister was at 18 months! :) Hey...wasn't she a preemie?? Yep! Seven weeks early and at this point you wouldn't really know it.
These are some of her developments:
She loves her daddy! He can't leave the room without her throwing a fit. Her tantrums are getting funny. I don't know where she learned it, but she rolls around and throws her whole body on the floor.
Emmy's stats at 18 months: She weighed 23 lbs 12 oz and was 31 1/2 inches long. Her head was 48 cm.
Yep, Erin's staying on track and is bigger than her sister was at 18 months! :) Hey...wasn't she a preemie?? Yep! Seven weeks early and at this point you wouldn't really know it.
These are some of her developments:
- Walks fast, runs, walks backwards
- Climbs to an adult chair
- Kicks and throws a ball
- Stacks blocks
- Puts rings on a cone and dumps them then tries again
- Turns pages in a book - identifies characters (She knows all of the Mickey Mouse characters)
- Says mama, dada, uh oh, um hum, huh uh, shoes, juice, and wow
- Points to body parts on request (eyes, ears, nose, teeth, tongue, hair, belly button, toes, hands, butt)
- Pulls a toy
- Uses a spoon, fork & drinks from a cup
- Dumps a raisin from a bottle without being shown how to do it
- Holds & shows affection toward a doll or stuffed animal
- Loves to talk on the phone
- Puckers lips & kisses us all the time
- She loves to eat all the time. She eats pretty much anything...she still doesn't care for berries though.
- She loves to pray before every meal and will sometimes remind us if we've forgotten.
- She loves to bring us books. Loves animals and loves bath time.
- She's really starting to jabber a bit more. I know she understands everything, she just doesn't want to say it yet.
- She does a bunch of sign language - eat, drink, more, milk, hello, please, and thank you.
- Loves to brush her teeth - BY HERSELF. She only wants to do things for herself and doesn't want anyone's help. She gets frustrated when she can't do something by herself.
- Loves to feed her dollies.
- Loves to blow on her food when she knows it's hot.
She loves her daddy! He can't leave the room without her throwing a fit. Her tantrums are getting funny. I don't know where she learned it, but she rolls around and throws her whole body on the floor.
Emmy's 1st Fish
Last month we drove up to Hoffman to see Shelby perform in Charlie & the Chocolate Factory. She played a candy kid & an oompa loompa. She did a really good job. We enjoyed the play very much!
Before heading back home the next day, we all went to a nearby lake to go fishing. Emmy caught her first fish! A little itty bitty sunny! She even held it!
Before heading back home the next day, we all went to a nearby lake to go fishing. Emmy caught her first fish! A little itty bitty sunny! She even held it!
New Bike
I picked up this little bike at a garage sale the other day. Emmy is just tall enough to reach the pedals. She likes to "ride" it but hasn't quite learned to pedal yet. She knows how to pedal her trike though.
Valleyfair
Like I said, we've had a busy summer and I have a ton of posts to catch up on.
I purchased a couple of pizzas at the grocery store one day. It said "Free Valleyfair tickets with the purchase of two Bellatoria pizzas." Cub was having a buy one get one free sale. Even better. The tickets were Junior tickets, but what the heck. The girls got in free so that helps. It's really expensive to go to Valleyfair. The adult tickets cost $40 each and then $12 for parking. So right off the bat it costs us nearly $100 just for the two of us. We thought about going later in the day when the prices are cheaper, but didn't do it. We ended up buying our tickets ahead of time at Cub and saved $10 on each adult ticket.
The girls had a blast on all of the rides. They have really gotten a lot more "kiddie" rides since the last time I was there.
I purchased a couple of pizzas at the grocery store one day. It said "Free Valleyfair tickets with the purchase of two Bellatoria pizzas." Cub was having a buy one get one free sale. Even better. The tickets were Junior tickets, but what the heck. The girls got in free so that helps. It's really expensive to go to Valleyfair. The adult tickets cost $40 each and then $12 for parking. So right off the bat it costs us nearly $100 just for the two of us. We thought about going later in the day when the prices are cheaper, but didn't do it. We ended up buying our tickets ahead of time at Cub and saved $10 on each adult ticket.
The girls had a blast on all of the rides. They have really gotten a lot more "kiddie" rides since the last time I was there.
Washer & Dryer
We purchased a new washer and dryer that seems to do everything but fly! Our old washer went on the blink a couple of months ago. It was leaving grease stains all over our clothes. It was time for a new one anyway. The old washer and dryer were swapped from the old owner's house that they moved into. I remember when we were viewing this house before we bought it and remembered seeing a brand new washer & dryer set and thinking how awesome it was. The first day that we moved into the house we walked around the house and then noticed these prize possessions. I was a little displeased because we were told that the washer & dryer were staying with the house. But, I was thankful at the same time that we didn't have to go out and buy new ones. At least they gave us something and I'm grateful that we got good use out of them for six years. The dryer still works but is older. I would like to sell it for dirt cheap but Brad wants to throw both of them away.
The new washer & dryer are Electrolux. I was so excited when we got these. My life must be pretty dull when I watch the washing machine go round and round. I couldn't believe it when they said it will wash a load of clothes in 15 minutes. So, I had to watch it for a few minutes to see how it worked. It actually does a load in 15 minutes and the dryer only takes 14 minutes.
This feature has come in very handy some days. Last Sunday Brad said he didn't have anything to wear to church so he washed & dried his clothes in less than a half hour. Seriously...cool!!!
I also haven't had to iron a single thing since we got these. There is a steam feature and a wrinkle release button ...absolutely love it.
We may rearrange the laundry room a bit to give us a little more room.
We purchased the new washer & dryer from Sears. We had a frustrating shopping experience with the girls. They were in no mood for shopping in the washer & dryer section. We were walking out of the appliance section and noticed the Electrolux pair just sitting there. I backed up and asked Brad..."What about these??" Earlier we were having a difficult time because we couldn't find anything that was under $700 each. These were originally priced at $1,599 each and were marked down to $639 each. We started talking about it. I knew that these were the "Rolls Royce" of washers & dryers. So immediately I'm thinking...what's the catch?
We talked with the sales lady and she said that they were last year's model and they just needed to make room for the new ones coming in. We talked it over and then we decided to get them. When we were up at the counter checking out, the sales lady scanned in the code and looked at us funny and then scanned it again. She thought she had made a mistake because the washer came up as $439 and the dryer came up at $379. It's our lucky day!!...I'm still thinking what's the catch. We NEVER get a good deal...EVER.
Also, we will never have to go to the yucky laundromat ever again to wash our queen size comforter. These both have extra large capacity and can hold a king size comforter no problem!
The new washer & dryer are Electrolux. I was so excited when we got these. My life must be pretty dull when I watch the washing machine go round and round. I couldn't believe it when they said it will wash a load of clothes in 15 minutes. So, I had to watch it for a few minutes to see how it worked. It actually does a load in 15 minutes and the dryer only takes 14 minutes.
This feature has come in very handy some days. Last Sunday Brad said he didn't have anything to wear to church so he washed & dried his clothes in less than a half hour. Seriously...cool!!!
I also haven't had to iron a single thing since we got these. There is a steam feature and a wrinkle release button ...absolutely love it.
We may rearrange the laundry room a bit to give us a little more room.
We purchased the new washer & dryer from Sears. We had a frustrating shopping experience with the girls. They were in no mood for shopping in the washer & dryer section. We were walking out of the appliance section and noticed the Electrolux pair just sitting there. I backed up and asked Brad..."What about these??" Earlier we were having a difficult time because we couldn't find anything that was under $700 each. These were originally priced at $1,599 each and were marked down to $639 each. We started talking about it. I knew that these were the "Rolls Royce" of washers & dryers. So immediately I'm thinking...what's the catch?
We talked with the sales lady and she said that they were last year's model and they just needed to make room for the new ones coming in. We talked it over and then we decided to get them. When we were up at the counter checking out, the sales lady scanned in the code and looked at us funny and then scanned it again. She thought she had made a mistake because the washer came up as $439 and the dryer came up at $379. It's our lucky day!!...I'm still thinking what's the catch. We NEVER get a good deal...EVER.
Also, we will never have to go to the yucky laundromat ever again to wash our queen size comforter. These both have extra large capacity and can hold a king size comforter no problem!
OLD WASHER & DRYER
NEW WASHER & DRYER
New Swing Set
Check out the new swing set!! We came upon this great play set from a friend in Monte. Her mom was retiring her daycare business and wanted to sell the play set. It's only about three years old. We jumped on the deal right away! My awesome brother took it apart for us and hauled it to our house last month. He brought a bunch of big strong men with him to set it up in our back yard. With all their help, it was set up in no time - maybe an hour. The girls are enjoying the play set and it's nice to just let them out the back door to play on it. Erin giggles each time she goes down the slide. She likes going head first. She has eaten dirt/sand several times as she face plants into the sand box.
Emmy loves to get "puppy rides" (aka...an under dog). She says, "mommy I want another puppy ride." So then I give her a great big under dog on the swing and she giggles. :) It's so much fun to hear their laughter.
Emmy loves to get "puppy rides" (aka...an under dog). She says, "mommy I want another puppy ride." So then I give her a great big under dog on the swing and she giggles. :) It's so much fun to hear their laughter.
Monte Fair
While we were home we checked out the county fair. The girls loved the animals. Erin didn't want to get too close to some of them though.
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