A day in the life of a Green M&M

He did his first sign!!

2011-09-26T22:53:00.000-07:00

He signed "Thank You" for the first time today!! We were at the doctor's office (he's got Bronchitis)and as we were leaving I told Mitchell to sign thank you, I showed him the sign and he did it! It was such a proud mommy moment! The problem is that we have asked him all afternoon to repeat it and he's blown raspberries instead but he did it for the Dr. and that's all that matters! Mitchell has inspired me to prepare a lesson on sign language for the kids I work with after school. Not only is sign language a fun language to learn (you get to talk with your hands!!) it's also important for everyone to learn as it gives a voice to the voiceless.
I am finally done feeling sorry for myself when it comes to Mitchell's DS. I told Mike tonight that sometimes I wish all three of my kids had DS and he looked at me as though he thought I was crazy! Mitchell's ability to capture the hearts of those around him is amazing. I have never experienced love like Mitchell's before I had him, it's the warmest, deepest love I have ever felt. He has the ability to lift the spirits of those around him, he can change even the grumpiest moods. He's an amazing child who is full of happiness and love, he never gives up, he's what I want my other two children to become. Mitchell lives in the moment and is always smiling when my other two are so often wanting more and miserable. How do we teach our other children the traits that come so naturally in our children with DS? I want my other children to live in the moment and not worry about what tomorrow brings. I want them to love deeper and be kinder. I want them not to worry about what others think of them, to be happy with who they are. These are things that I wish came easily to my older two children. Maybe Mitchell came to show our family how to love a little more deeply, care a little more and to care what others think a little less. Maybe he was sent to us by God to teach us, perhaps the lessons to be learned aren't to be learned by him but our family as a whole.

For Jenny

2011-09-18T09:45:00.000-07:00

I guess I had better make this a great post because it's for one of my favorite bloggers, Jenny Chillihitzia!
I don't blog much anymore because I don't feel like I have all that much to blog about. Sure, once in a while I think to myself "I should blog about this" but then life with three kiddos sucks me back in and I completely forget what I was going to blog about... I do however check my blog and I read a lot of what you all post, it helps me through tough days knowing I have other mommies that are going through the same challenges as I am. I really enjoy seeing the progress of all of the kids, it really gives me hope for Mitch.
Speaking (I am not speaking, rather typing) of Mitch, he is doing wonderfully! He still isn't walking but he's with in inches of cruising. We bought him a Little Tikes shopping cart yesterday in hopes that he would walk while pushing it and that's exactly what has happened! He thinks he is so big as he pushes his cart. His brother and sister take him "Shopping" and put his toys in his cart for him, he loves it!
I think it's so great that many of my struggles with Mitch are the same as any mom that has an almost 2 year old. He's into everything, he's super picky in his eating and he's constantly testing me. I can't keep my house clean unless he's down for a nap because he makes messes quicker than I can pick them up. He's figured out how to open various drawers around the house including his favorite, my underwear drawer! He loves to strew the contents of the drawers all over whichever room he's in. He loves to "Sort" the laundry, unfortunately he's not much help as it's a huge mess when he's done "Sorting!" He loves my cupboard with my pots and pans, he loves the dogs dishes... He's my mess maker! I need to make him a shirt that says, "If there's trouble I'll find it" because he is always in trouble! He is climbing too which means he's stuck quite often. This makes him mad because he doesn't understand how he got in but can't get out! He definitely tests my patience and there have been a few "Time Outs" lately, they are more for me than him. I have to contain him occasionaly so that I can finish picking up after him. He is defineitely on his way into the "Terrible Two's" AAAGGGHHHH!

NDSC Conference

2011-08-09T14:29:00.000-07:00

This years conference was held in San Antonio Tx and we had the best time! It was an experience that I will never forget, the happiness, the love, the acceptance, it was amazing! We were all there with one common goal; to learn as much in 3 days as humanly possible. We all went to learn different things as there were seminars offered on everything from feeding issues to explaining sexuality to our children but we all walked away with the knowledge that our children are accepted, maybe not by all but the vast majority of people love and accept our children. I learned that having Down Syndrome doesn't define our children, it is part of who they are but they are so much more than Down Syndrome.
There were so many aspects of this conference that were life changing. There were the brief meetings in the elevator, hanging out in the pool and meeting other parents, sitting down at a table and talking for hours to a presenter. There were so many amazing experiences but walking down the halls was my favorite. It was in the hallways that I was able to talk to other parents, I was given many ideas and suggestions because they had just accomplished with their child what we are trying to accomplish with Mitch.
I was amazed by how many families were there that had adopted children with Down Syndrome, they choose this journey and by the end of the conference I could see why. I have never in my whole life been part of such a loving group of people, love just seemed to emanate from everyone. Maybe it was because we were there for the same reasons but I think it was because we have all been blessed by someone with Down Syndrome and love is just a by-product.
Going to NDSC Conference was a a wonderful experience and I am looking forward to doing it again!

Major Vent!

2011-06-07T22:43:00.000-07:00

I got my first hurtful comment about DS tonight. I had gone to my neighbor's home to talk about an issue we've been having, we sat talking when she asked me what our plans are for the summer. I told that we have a few trips planned including San Antonio Tx for NDS conference. I then told her what a hard time we are having getting OT and PT services for Mitchell. She told me that she didn't think he should recieve these services because they cost the state too much money and that if we want services for him we should be paying for them ourselves "like parents used to do"! I tried to tell her how much these services would help him and she looked at me and said "You can't tell how much they'll help him, he's only a year and a half!" She is a school teacher and has recently had her hours cut, she told me that the state spends way too much money on children like Mitchell and not enough on regular ed. I was floored! I want my son to have the best education and learn as much as he's capable of, just like my other two children. I have the same expectations of all three of my children, Mitchell is just going to need some extra help to reach his potential. This woman has never been married or had children so I can't stand the fact that she stood there telling me what a burden my son was on the state.She has never walked even one foot in my shoes!! I just stood there and I am pretty sure that my lower jaw hit the floor because I was shocked, at a loss for words. My husband wanted to go over and speak his mind but didn't because he knew it would upset me. I would've spoke up but like I said, I was at a loss for words! I feel like she's blaming her lost hours directly on Michell, because of the services he's recieving, her hours were cut. She's crazy!!

I've been "Blinded By Love!"

2011-03-24T23:05:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity after Mitchell was born to visit with another DS momma on the phone. I remember her telling me that her son didn't look like he had Down's Syndrome, she told me that he had none of the physical features that distinguish our children. Not too long after this conversation, I had the chance to meet this momma and her beautiful little boy. I remember thinking to myself, "Oh my goodness, how can she not see his features, he definately looks like he's got Down's Syndrome!"
Fast forward to today- I look at Mitchell everyday and I don't see Down's Syndrome, I see nothing that distguishes him from other children his age, I see beautiful blue eyes, a gorgeous crooked smile, a sweet little nose and incredible red hair. I see a boy who is trying so hard to walk and is really quite a jabber mouth! I see him for what he is, an incredible addition to our family, a boy who has no limits to what he can accomplish. I guess this is what it feels like to be "Blinded by Love" I see no faults, only perfection. I look at pictures and I don't see it, I know it's there but my eyes won't allow me to see what the Doctors have told me are his imperfections. All I see is perfection!

Trying to be the best

2011-01-31T13:41:00.000-08:00

I am not a competetive person, I have never been into sports, I have never cared about winning.. But lately I have found myself becoming competetive in a strange way, through my children. However, It's not what you are thinking, I am not cheering them on while sitting on the sidelines of a soccer game, I find myself becoming ultra-competetive about their lives. I want them to have the best friends, the best clothes, the best grades, the best teachers. Simply put, I want my children to be the best. An example- Maddi was recently tested for GATE which is our Gifted and Talented program. In order to be tested she had to score at an advanced level in both reading- language arts and mathmatics on the STAR test. There were 22 kids that achieved this in her grade level. She didn't make it into the program, only a few kids were selected. I keep telling myself it's not a big deal, she is a smart little girl and she'll have a chance next year. I so wanted her to be in that program and I am having a hard time knowing that she didn't make it.... She could care less. I almost feel like I am trying to show others up through my children, "Ooohhh, Look over there, that's Maddison Green, Isn't she lovely." That's what I want people to say. I want my children to be the best at everything they do because they are a direct reflection of me, of my parenting skills. When they misbehave in public I feel like all eyes turn to me and people are whispering, "There goes Katie, what a terrible mom to let her kids behave like that in public!!" I worry constantly that I am not doing enough for my children, then I remind myself that there are only so many hours in a day and most of my day is focused on my children. I am constantly telling my friends that I wish that I had a magic mirror to show me the futures of my children, I just want reassurance that I am do everything I can possibly can be doing to produce wonderfully, well balanced children. Is that to much to ask?

Ramblings

2011-01-18T09:57:00.000-08:00

I am reminded today just how blessed I am, great friends, great family, a roof over my head, clothing, food on the table, a loving husband who provides for his family. Everyday is a miracle, a blessing, a gift. Although we have our fair share of trials, we pull through them and we are better off because of the experience. Some days I am not sure these trials are a good thing but when we have made it through a rough patch, I look back and I am realize how much stronger my family and I are because of what we have experienced.
Every Friday I volunteer in Maddi's 3rd grade class and I have been taking Mitchie along with me. The kids have come to count on Mitchie being there and once they have finished their work they then line up to play with Mitch. Mitch adores the attention he gets and the kids adore Mitch. This last week Maddi was holding her brother and her classmates were crowding around her, all wanting to play with Mitchie. I heard a child ask if Mitchie has Down's Syndrome to which Maddi replied "Yes." The conversation that then took place was pretty wonderful. Maddi and her classmates talked about thier different fmaily members that have Down's Syndrome, cousins, aunts, uncles. What impressed me the most was that while they were discussing it they all seemed so accepting, they talked about how much fun they had with these family members, how "Normal" they were. I think that this means alot to Maddi as well, it helps her to accept her brother, to understand that he really isn't that different and that her friends will still accept her. I think she enjoys having her brother in her classroom and being able to show him off.

Blessed

2011-01-13T20:45:00.000-08:00

It's been a little while since I've updated my blog. I wanted to report that Mitchie Guy has gotten a clean bill of health! He gained back his lost weight plus some and his blood counts came back good, his platelets are at a normal level, his white cells are still on the low side of normal but they are coming up in numbers. Wow, I am so thankful for his health. I don't think I have ever been so afraid for one of my children. He was so sick, so lethargic, so lifeless. That's not my child, he is full of it, he's a wild little guy, he loves to get into the garbage, he loves to pull his sibling's hair, he loves to crawl and get whatever it is that he's not supposed to be into. His little face has "Mischievious" written all over it. When he was sick he lost his sparkle, his shine, he was dull. I am thankful for every spilled trash can, I am thankful for every time my other children yell "Mitchie, don't pull my hair." I am thankful for him, all of him. Mischief and all!

Today

2011-01-04T15:07:00.000-08:00

Today is a good day!! I am feeling at peace with everything, I am trying to remember that I am not in charge and I don't have the answers. I know that in time I will get the answers to all of my questions, somedays it's just hard to wait for the answers. Today we were finally able to submit a stool sample today so hopefully we'll find out if he is having problems with lactose soon. Tomorrow is more blood work and I hope that this is Mitchie Guy's last draw for a while, he hates being poked! I hope that by Fri. we will know if his blood counts are still off and if they are then I am hopeful we can decide on what our next step will be. He is eating good and talking more today, he seems to be on the mend. I am so greatful for every babbled word he speaks and every cheesy grin he gives, they give me hope, they keep me going.

My little prayer

2011-01-03T19:54:00.000-08:00

Dear God,
I am so scared, scared for Mitchell, scared for Mike and I, scared for Maddi and Merrick. I don't like waiting for answers but I know I have to. Although you have given us answers to some of Mitchell's health problems, you have also added questions. I don't want anymore questions but I would love some more answers. I want to know why his blood counts are abnormal and why he seems to keep having tummy troubles (thank you God, he doesn't have Celiac or a thyroid problem.) I want to know why he is loosing weight and sleeping so much. God, I know you are an amazing God and therefore have an amazing plan for our family but none the less, I am scared. I pray for sleep for myself as I lay awake at night worrying that tomorrow might be the day I get the answers I don't want to hear. I am dreading the word Leukemia yet I am so afraid that is the answer you have for me. I pray that Mitchell will do well at his blood draw on Wed., he hates getting poked and I hate seeing him getting poked although I know it is something that needs to happen and It will lead to the answers that I am so desperately seeking. I am so scared but I know that you are walking this walk with me and that does give me comfort. God, keep holding my hand because I need you more and more each day. I am really learning that in order to make it through my day I need to turn to you and ask for strength because I can't do this on my own. I am thankful for the sweetest boy with the sweetest smile and all of the milestones he has accomplished, I am thankful for everyday I have with not only Mitchell but also Mike, Maddi and Merrick. I know you have blessed me in so many ways and I sometimes have a hard time seeing those blessings amidst all of the hurt that I am feeling. God, I pray that all of these trials are leading me closer to you and and deepening my faith.
I pray this in your son's name,
Amen

Prayers for Mitchell

2010-12-29T23:23:00.001-08:00

This all started when he decided that he was done nursing, so about 3 weeks ago. Mitchell began to have constant diarrhea but I chalked it up to teething. A couple of days ago he started running a low grade fever and yesterday I found him pulling on his ear so I decided it was time to take him to the Pediatrician to see if something was going on. When we were called back the nurse had me weigh him and he weighed 14lbs 12 oz, when we were there for his one year check up in Oct. he weighed 16lbs 9 oz. He had lost almost 2 lbs in 3 months! I started crying because I felt horrible and I couldn't believe that I hadn't noticed he was loosing weight. He has been eating like a horse and should have been gaining, not loosing!! When our Pediatrician came she asked about his fever and how long he'd had it for, then we moved on to the diarrhea and I told her that it had gone on for 3 weeks. (When I say that now it sounds like so long and I can't believe that I didn't take him sooner but he didn't seem unhappy and there wasn't anything else that went with it so I chalked it up to teething.) We discussed possible diagnosis and she thinks at this point it is one of three, Celiac's, a hyper-thyroid or an intolerance to lactose. I am alright with any of those three, I don't know what I am going to do if it isn't one of those. That is what scares me the most, the idea that it may not be one of those, that it is something big and bad and ugly. I keep doing the woulda, shoulda, coulda thing over in my mind, beating myself up!! We have cut out Gluten and lactose as of today and hopefully we will see results and he will begin to gain weight. I am just asking for your positive thoughts and prayers for our little Mitchie Guy as we try to figure out his weightloss and what to do about it. On the upside, his fever was due to an earinfection and he is on antibiotics and they are already helping him to feel better.
Katie

Normal

2010-12-26T19:52:00.000-08:00

I found this on another blog I frequent.

Warning: this article is intended to make a serious point in an interesting way. It is not meant to offend anyone, except possibly doctors.

--------------------------------------------------

I'm very sorry, I have the results of the genetic tests and they have confirmed our suspicions that your fetus is what we call... Normal. Some people prefer the terms "Ordinarily Challenged" or "Normal Syndrome". The syndrome can be easily identified by a complete lack of any interesting genetic characteristics. I know this will come as a shock to you, but you should be aware of what this is likely to mean.

If your fetus manages to survive the rest of the pregnancy and the birth, which is becoming more common these days, he or she will face some daunting challenges. Children who suffer from normalcy are prone to health and psychological problems. It is almost certain that the growing child will suffer a seemingly endless stream of viruses. They will frequently damage themselves, and sometimes others, from their excessive energy.

Their relentless demands will put a strain on your existing family and, of course, your relationship with your partner will suffer, and possibly end in a painful and acrimonious separation. Any children you already have, even if they also suffer from normalcy, will be jealous of the newcomer and all their extra attention. Many siblings are liable to be psychologically scarred by the new arrival.

I need hardly mention the financial consequences, although disastrous, they will be nothing compared to the emotional turmoil your life will suffer.

After a while, you may be lucky and find they can be kind and loving young children. They may find some temporary happiness in things such as music, dancing, food or playing with toys.

But if they survive early childhood, a Normal child is almost certain to grow into a Normal adolescent. Your years of sacrifice will be thrown back in your face as they become disobedient, wild and reckless. Unable to find happiness and contentment, they will treat you with contempt until they manage to leave home. Even then the suffering will continue as they will often return to try and extract money. They will blame you for their own faults and leave you bitter and twisted.

They may well become criminals, over a quarter of Normals will have trouble with the law, many will spend time in jail. Many will have problems with alcohol or drug abuse. Normal marriages are often unhappy and short and over half end in divorce.

Even if they become successful this is likely to be because of the often observed tendency of Normals towards excessive greed. The chances of them sharing their success with you are remote and they will tend to see you as an embarrasment.

Finally, Normal people are likely to die before their time. 23% will die of cancer, 33% of heart disease. Hundreds every year in this country alone are so distressed by their condition that they take their own life. I'm sorry to say that many will have had a lonely, painful and pointless existence.

I am afraid that Normal Syndrome is a genetic condition that affects every cell of the body, and so is impossible to cure.

Termination is an option.

Shall I book an appointment?

...from a parent who received a diagnosis rather like this.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-22T09:20:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!!

2010-12-21T19:40:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that Mitchell will be celebrating his second Christmas this year! It doesn't seem possible that he is almost 15 months old, the time sure does fly! Mitchell is doing so many things this Christmas that I didn't think he would be doing for a while. He is crawling and pulling himself up to stand, he is playing with his toys, he is tormenting the dog and his brother and sister. I love watching him get into trouble because one year ago I didn't think he would be getting in trouble, I didn't know what he'd be doing but I never thought he would be crawling and I certainly didn't think he'd be mischievous!! That's the thing about DS, they prepare you for the worst when you leave the hospital but they certainly don't prepare you for what's coming! If I would've been told how much joy he'd bring our family maybe some of my heartache wouldn't have come. I still have my bad days but they are few and far between. I think I will always worry more about Mitchell but I'm alright with that.
A couple of weekends ago, we were able to meet up with another DS family. Cylus is 14 and he was a lot of fun. His parents were wonderful to visit with and they answered a lot of questions and told us a lot about Cylus and his development. At one point in our conversation, Cylus's dad, Dave, said that Cylus is more like their other children than unlike them. While we were with him he played video games with the other kids, ate pizza, told stories about the dance he had just attended and got mad at his parents! We really enjoyed our visit with the Medina family and I look forward to future visits.
I haven't posted pics of Mitchell for a really long time so here they are!!

We are going to the National Downs Syndrome Conference!!

2010-12-09T17:54:00.000-08:00

Mike and I have been discussing whether or not we should go to the conference this coming year. We had decided that it might not be practicle though as we have a quite a few things planned. I went ahead and asked Maryanne, who is from our Regional center while she was at the house today if there was funding for families who want to go to different trainings/conferences and told her about the DS conference in San Antonio this coming summer. She told me that she would see what she could find out about state funding through various programs and when she called me back she informed me that she found enough money to cover travel expenses!! I am so excited I want to scream WOOHOO!!!

One day at a time

2010-12-08T12:45:00.001-08:00

In the past few days I have spent alot of time being scared for Mitchell, or so I thought. Really, I am scared for myself. It's not Mitchell at all. He is doing wonderfully, he's pulling himself up to standing, crawling like crazy and getting into so much trouble. I am scared for me, what my life is going to be like, I know that sounds so selfish but just hear me out.... I want to know what I can expect of him, I don't want to expect to much of Mitchell and be disappointed but I don't want to expect him to do nothing because that is what I would get. Right now I feel like I can expect "Normal" things out of him, he is a normal kid but as he grows up I don't know what I can expect. I want to keep expecting normal things but I don't know if I dare. I want to know if my life is going to be about taking care of Mitchell or if someday he'll take care of me. I know that Mitchell is always going to need me more than my other kids but how much more? I know that he'll bless our lives and everyday I am thankful that I was chosen to be his mother. I guess I just need to learn to take it one day at a time because when I look to far ahead I make myself crazy!

In a funk!!

2010-12-07T14:42:00.000-08:00

I have had such a heavy heart lately. I don't know if it's just that time of the year when life is so chaotic or if it is because I have been really reflecting on the past year. I have really been struggling with Mitchell and everything that goes along with Down's Syndrome. I just wish I could wake up and he would somehow just be free of Down's Syndrome but if that happened he wouldn't be Mitchell. I just want to have peace in my heart about everything. I want everything to be better and not so scary. I tell people all the time that I wish I had a magic orb to look into, to see what Mitchell's future holds. Will he have a job? Will he live on his own? Will he marry? I just want to know so that I can prepare myself, good or bad. I love him as I do all of my children but I don't worry about my other children like I worry about Mitchell. I want to know that I am doing right by him, I want proof that I am doing the right things... Is that too much to ask? Everytime I reach this point I turn to all of my blogger friends for help, prayers and inspiration. You all are amazing and really do help me to find strength just when I need it most.
Thank you,
Katie

He's one!

2010-10-06T12:20:00.000-07:00

Today is Mitchell's birthday. I think this birthday Mike and I will be celebrating us. We made it. Through thick and thin, lots of tears, heartache and hurt, we made it. A year ago I felt as though there was nothing to celebrate but a year later I know there is so much to celebrate! We have made it through many scares, many unknowns, we made it and our marriage is stronger because of Mitchell! While it wasn't an easy year, we have both grown so much stronger, we have learned to love each other through thick and thin, we have learned to rely on one another more than we did before, we have found peace within one another. I love my family, I love Mitchie Guy and I love my husband. The last year has shown me that with my family and God nothing is impossible!
Happy Birthday Mitchie Guy, I love you more than you'll ever know!

21 reasons why I love my T21 guy!!

2010-10-05T19:59:00.000-07:00

1. His smile lights up the room!
2. He is so happy.
3. He is so determined.
4. He loves me so much!
5. When I pick him up out of the crib, he is so excited to see me!
6. He blows great raspberries.
7. He gives sweet kisses.
8. He's got red hair!
9. He's just precious!
10. He's got beautiful blue eyes.
11. He has taught me a lot about myself.
12. He makes me laugh.
13. He reminds me to take one day at a time!
14. He reminds me not to sweat the small stuff.
15. He has shown me what unconditional love is all about.
16. He has reminded me that each and every child develops at their own pace.
17. He has helped my faith in God.
18. I now see beauty in all people.
19. He has helped me gain patience.
20. Did I tell you that he has the greatest smile?
21. I love him because he is my one of a kind Mitchie Guy!

What a year!!

2010-10-04T20:03:00.000-07:00

This is such a big week at our house! One year ago tomorrow I started having labor symptoms and I couldn't wait to meet the little guy (or gal) that had occupied my ever-growing belly for the last 9+ months. Mitchell was born on Oct. 6th weighing in at 6lbs 10oz and he was perfect. I loved him the moment I layed eyes on him, he was such a precious little dude. I layed awake the entire first night and just held him and snuggled him, never imagining the news that was coming my way. I shouldn't say I couldn't have imagined getting his diagnosis because I remember thinking his eyes were a little different, he wasn't passing his hearing screen and he was having trouble nursing but like I said, he was perfect. It will be a year ago Friday that the Pediatrician came in and gave me the news that rocked our world. "I think that your son has something wrong with him, I think he has Down's Syndrome." That was the most devistating day of my life thus far.
Fast Forward to today. What a joy Mitchell is. He is funny, determined, loud, smart and incredibly handsome. When I found out that my son had Down's Syndrome I immediately feared the worst, he's never going to go to school, he's not going to have friends, he just isn't going to be NORMAL!! Boy, did I have some learning to do!! He has done everything before his "Normal" brother did. He smiled at 8 weeks, his brother didn't smile until 9 weeks, he crawled at 11 months, his brother didn't until after a year. He's attempting to stand up and he jabbers up a storm, both things his brother didn't do until much later. I now am hesitant to label a child as "Normal" because there is no normal as Mitchell has shown me. Mitchell has taught me lessons in many subjects, including lessons in determination, happiness and love. We have been blessed by this little boy who came into our lives one year ago. I have grown so much since that day when I got his diagnosis, he has changed my life forever and I wouldn't have it any other way!

A few pics of Mitchell

2010-07-15T23:30:00.000-07:00

Mitchell is getting so big! He is now able to sit for long periods of time and play! Go Mitchell!

Mitchell and Merrick making scary faces for the camera.

Mitchell's aunt decided he needed his hair done and this was the end result.

We are going on VACATION!!

2010-07-07T12:35:00.000-07:00

We are getting ready to head up to Washington in a few days and the kids are getting super excited! We are going to be in Seattle on Sunday where we will watch the Mariners take on the Yankees, I am so excited to see Derek Jeter!(HEHE) ;) We are going from Washington over to Idaho where we will spend time with my MIL, I know we will have a blast there as well. There is so much to do on this trip, when I start to think about it all my mind starts to spin... What happened to relaxing while on vacation? I guess that once children are in the picture a relaxing vacation goes by the wayside!! I think what I am worried about the most is all of the driving time and how trying to figure out how to occupy my 3 angels (though in the car they may be devils!) If any of you have any fun traveling ideas, let me know!

I need to vent!!

2010-07-05T21:08:00.000-07:00

This has nothing to do with my children but rather a friend of my husband... My hubby has this friend that recently moved back into town and he calls our home constantly!! Not once or twice a day but on the hour for hours at a time! I am to the point where I see his number and I hit the silence button and once he hangs up I turn off the phone's ringer! I am going insane!!! He begins calling at percisely 2 in the afternoon when he knows hubby is on his way home (this happens to be NAPTIME!!) and continues to call, while leaving stupid messages, until hubby calls him back. We happened to be away from our home tonight and he proceeded to call three different times in three hours! His message sounded something like this "I thought answering machines were for people that aren't home.. I know your home but you're just not answering.. Answering machines were a stupid invention.." My hubby doesn't know how to proceed without offending him because he is easily offended but we have both HAD IT!!

On a bright note, Mitchell is doing well! He is rolling all over, sitting up on his own and he's begining to do the army crawl thing, and he talks! Jabbers, talks, it's all the same... point is that he is a noise maker. He is alot of fun. His brother and sister have started to really enjoy him because he interacts with them now and he thinks they are hilarious! He still doesn't have any teeth but I am assuming they are on there way because he chews while nursing... Can you say OUCH!! I have a feeling that once his first tooth comes in our nursing relationship will be over because he bites too hard! I am just thrilled that he has nursed for this long.

I have seen many posts recently about blood work testing the Thyroid and blood cell counts and I was wondering if these are tests that I should have done regularly or only if there is reason to be concerned? I know that the tests were done when he was born but they haven't been since, do they need to be done yearly?

Thanks for reading while I ramble on...
Katie

perfect

2010-05-19T11:18:00.001-07:00

My oldest is really growing up, maybe a little too fast. She has recently discovered that not everyone has the things that she has, she has found out that some moms don't love their children unconditionally and that many children live with grandparents or other relatives instead of with a mom and/or a dad. She has started to ask if I'm going to leave her, it breaks my heart that she thinks that I could. I really liked it when she thought that the world was so perfect, I hope that she knows that I try to make her world perfect.

My little blossom

2010-05-17T17:28:00.000-07:00

It is Spring time here in N. California and lots of things are growing including one awesome little man, Mitchell! He is growing like a weed, not only is his weight increasing but also his abilities. He is sitting up with minimal help, starting to self feed, learning how to get into a crawling position and he is rolling all over the place. He is really funny and he knows he is, he cracks himself up and it is really funny. I have his giggle recorded on my phone and when he hears that he laughs even harder, he loves to blow raspberries and thinks it is hilarious when you blow them back at him. He is a funny little guy and definately the happiest baby of my bunch!

A long time

2010-04-27T19:47:00.000-07:00

It has been a long time since I have "Blogged" but we have had a crazy winter(which apparently isn't over because it is snowing outside!) Mitchell has had chronic breathing problems this winter and we were finally given our own nebulizer so that we can give him breathing treatments when he starts to cough and wheeze. Other than breathing problems Mitchell is doing wonderfully! He is really starting to move, he rolls well and is starting to roll to get to where he wants to go. He is also trying to sit up, sitting up is his favorite postion because he can observe his sibblings doing silly things. Mitchell has been surprising me continuously since his birth, maybe because I expected something so different from what he is doing. To my surprise he is developing at a fairly normal rate, he's not to far off on hitting his milestones on time and he is, well, amazing. His smile lights up his whole face and his laugh is contagous! It was really hard on me when he was sick because his smile faded and he forgot how to laugh, he looked pitiful. His eyes lost their sparkle and they drained down the sides of his face, he had constant tears on his cheeks and so did I. I cried with him and for him, it was a really rough time for both him and I.

It's been a while

2010-02-08T19:21:00.000-08:00

Everyday I have great intentions of updating my blog but life gets in the way! We have had so many things going on at our house this past month, power outages, strep throat and numerous doctors visits to name a few. After the cold Winter we have had I am looking forward to warm tempatures and flowers again, I can't wait for Winter to leave and Spring to rush in!
Today Mitchell had his 4 month checkup and is doing wonderfully! He is steadily gaining weight and he continues to meet many of his milestones. He is still having some difficultly with head control and he is not rolling over but he'll get there. He is smiling and jabbering up a storm, he responds to voices and loves looking at his surroundings.
Mitchell has become such a bright spot in our lives, it is hard to imagine life without him. I still have days when I feel sorry for myself but then he grins at me and reminds me that it's going to be alright. He has not only perfected his grin but now he GIGGLES!! I love his hearty little giggle, when he giggles so do I!
Lately I have become irratated with so many of our healthcare providers, I don't need to be told at every visit that we can expect our son to be delayed. I get it, there may be delays!! I don't need to be told repeatedly that my son is going to be delayed. I know that he will be able to everything, he's just going to do it all on "Mitchell time" which is fine with us. He is teaching us to slow down and take it all one day at a time.

Happy New Years!!

2009-12-31T23:36:00.001-08:00

I can't believe that we are still awake and waiting for the ball to drop. I am beyond exhasted so excuse any typos in this post. 2009 has been a rough year for our family, we had financial problems (who didn't?), jobs come and go and a Gestational Diabetes scare amongst other things. Looking back on this year, we were also blessed in so many ways, we were able to modify our mortgage allowing us to keep our home, we went on a great trip to see old friends in Utah and we were blessed with a beautiful baby boy, Mitchell. Yes, 2009 has brought quite a few wonderful things our way, the most wonderful being Mitchell. He is such a sweet little guy and has the happiest disposition. It has been difficult at times knowing that he has Down's but all of the wonderful people I have found through my blog have made it less difficult to accept. I really appriciate all of your honest posts about your children with Down's Syndrome, through your blogs I will know what to expect, what to be fighting for and I know I will gain a knowledge that I didn't have prior to Mitchell's birth. I want to thank you all so much and let you know that I am proud to be part of this new family!
God Bless,
Katie

What 3 months can show you

2009-12-28T17:36:00.000-08:00

It has been 3 months since Mitchell was born and I have learned so much since he was born. I have not only learned about Down's Syndrome, I've learned things I didn't know about myself.
I have learned that I am stronger than I ever imagined,
I have learned what unconditional love feels like,
I have learned to praise even the smallest accomplishments,
I have learned not to look to far down the road, I'll only drive myself crazy,
I have learned to be happy with today and whatever today has to offer,
I have learned that I am surrounded by wonderful people in a community that is warm and embracing,
I have learned that Mitchell will accomplish great things and will have many abilities,
I have learned that Down's Syndrome isn't something to be sad about but rather something to celebrate!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-22T23:24:00.000-08:00

It is hard to believe that in two nights Santa will make his appearance! My kids are so excited and can't wait to see what Santa brings. We have so much planned in the upcoming days, dinner with family, Christmas Eve church services, baking for Santa, play dates with friends and last minute preparations, the upcoming days are sure to be busy. This Christmas has been the best I've had in a long time. I've tried to space out all of my baking, card sending, wrapping, sending of gifts over the entire month instead of waiting until the week before Christmas to cram it all in. This strategy has worked well in keeping the holiday chaos to a minimum. I feel like I have had time to savor the holidays this year and that is a true blessing.
Merry Christmas,
Katie
P.S.
I was holding Mitchell as he slept tonight and he looked so sweet that I had to take a picture to share. Enjoy!

Tough day

2009-12-16T21:23:00.000-08:00

I thought that I was alright with Mitchell's Down's diagnosis until today. I sat down with a dear friend whom I had not seen since having Mitchell and we began to chat. She asked me how I was doing and I told her I was fine, we continued to chat and I said something (I can't remember exactly what) and she replied "It sounds like you are having a hard time accepting it." I started to cry and I realized that I am having a hard time accepting it. I am fine as long as I don't have to discuss it. I am still hoping to wake up and discover a baby free of Down's, I am still trying to make sense of all of this. I have found myself feeling lost and alone, Mike and I don't discuss it, we've moved on or so I thought. Tonight I am finding myself shaking fists at the sky and wondering why me? Why am I the chosen one? I love him and I know that I can do this and do a darn good job at it but I didn't sign up for this! I am thinking some counseling might help me sort out my feelings and help me move forward, it might be good for my marriage as well. I know that with time this will all get easier and I will reach a point of acceptance and I look forward to getting there.

Christmas pictures

2009-12-12T23:25:00.000-08:00

Tonight we went to our church's Christmas program. Since we took the time to dress the kiddos up in their Christmas best and trudge out in the snow I decided I might as well document the occasion. ENJOY!

Remaining positive

2009-12-11T19:28:00.000-08:00

This week has been so cold. The temperature hasn't gotten above freezing for around a 5 days. We have had our water pipes to our washing machine burst and our washing machine has been frozen since then. It has been rough watching the laundry pile up and knowing there is really nothing I can do until the weather changes. It has also been hard to keep the house warm as our central heat isn't efficient and our wood burning stove heats only the front rooms of our home.
Even though this has been a rough week I have been blessed to have great friends to visit with. Jaquelle was kind enough to let me do 3 loads of laundry at her house and help me with a fleece tie blanket, Sherry was wonderful to visit with as she offered much needed adult conversation and Sanna was a Godsend as she came to get Maddi for school this morning. So to all of my wonderful friends, Thank You
We also had Mitchell's two month checkup with the pediatrician on Monday and he is doing well. He is smiling, cooing, reaching for objects and trying to roll. He is steadily making his way up the growth chart and has gained 3 pounds since birth. He is now breastfeeding exclusively which I think is awesome! I am so proud of him and I love watching him meet his milestones. I hope that this continues as he grows.

Holidays

2009-11-28T23:09:00.000-08:00

Wow, I can't believe that it is Christmas time already! We got our lights up today, actually I had nothing to do with it, Mike did the lights while I napped with Mitchell. I got some of my Christmas stuff out and I am slowly putting it up. I always enjoy this time of year but I equally enjoy it being over; every year I say that I am going to slow down and savor the holidays but every year that doesn't happen. What is it about this time of year that causes me to run around like a chicken with it's head cut off? I hope that this year I will be able to truly savor the holiday season, maybe by getting gifts wrapped sooner rather than later and by beginning my seasonal baking now I will be able to enjoy the holidays this year.
We went to Reno yesterday and braved the Black Friday crowds to find the perfect presents at bargain prices. We found presents at decent prices but I am not sure we got any true "Deals." We were able to ride the Ferris wheel at Scheel's and go to lunch, so all in all it was a productive day. The kids were so good and came home exhausted which was nice. Now I just need to wrap all of the gifts we bought and hopefully wrap them before Christmas Eve!

Love to all,
Katie

Thankful

2009-11-25T22:00:00.000-08:00

As we get ready to celebrate Thanksgiving I have a lot to be thankful for but I am not feeling thankful. I am feeling scared, scared that I don't know what to expect, scared that I don't know what to do and say. As a third time momma I feel awkward for the first time in my mothering career. I worry I am not doing things right, that I am not helping Mitchell to develop like he should be, I feel like I am not doing enough. As I type this I am scared, scared for what the future holds for not only Mitchell but for our family. I hurt for Mitchell and the challenges he will face and I pray that we (Mitchell and his family) have the strength to get through these challenges as a family. For the last couple of days I have really struggled with knowing that my child has Down's and that he is different from other children. To me he looks like any other child but I am always afraid that people can tell he's different. I am finding comfort in the fact that he is doing what both of my other children have done at this age, he is making eye contact with me, he is beginning to respond to his siblings, he is NURSING (so happy about this!!) and he is on the verge of smiling. I love him so much and I am sure that he will bless our lives in ways we never imagined!
I am thankful for this opportunity to get some of my feelings out and will reflect on what I am thankful for tomorrow.
Night Night,
Katie

A sad day

2009-11-14T17:30:00.000-08:00

Today was a sad day. Chris Ritz, a local paramedic who flew on a life flight helicopter, was killed when his helicopter went down about 60 miles away from where we live. I knew him because he served on SSD school board with me. He also was also part of our local Boy Scout organization. He leaves behind a son, Kenton, who is in fourth grade this year. He was a wonderful man and will be greatly missed by our community.
When something like this happens, I am reminded at how short life on earth can be. I am also reminded to cherish each day I have with my children and family. I know that Chris cherished everyday he spent with his son. He glowed when Kenton was around, he was one proud dad!

Really MAD!!

2009-11-09T15:31:00.001-08:00

I am so mad! I just got off the phone with the ENT who informed me that since Mitchell isn't showing up under our insurance yet, we have to pay for the entire visit up front! We can't afford to do that and he needs to be seen! I am so frustrated because I know that he is insured as of Nov. 1st, he just isn't showing up yet! I don't know what to do because we have to travel 80 miles to get to the closest city and we are going to get my MIL tomorrow so we planned the ENT visit on the same day. I don't know when we will be back to go to the ENT, maybe I'll just find a new one! I am going to SCREAM!! I had heard such good things about this ENT, he has an Audiologist in his office and is supposed to be great with little ones but I am now floored and not sure I'll go back! I am off to figure out what I am going to do!

Wal Mart experience

2009-11-08T17:17:00.000-08:00

Today we all went to Walmart so that the kids could begin to look and see what they want for Christmas. As Maddi and I were wandering around looking at toys we saw a young woman who had Down's. She looked at me and said "Hi" and I said "Hi" and I asked her how she was doing and she looked at me and said "Fine." Maddi looked up at me and said "Mom, I think she has Down's" I told her she was right and began to cry. Why, I am not sure. I think it was a mixture of being scared because this is our life now and also happiness as she could converse with me. I looked for a guardian or parent to perhaps talk with but I never saw the young woman again. It was like she was sent to just show me how normal things may be for us!

2009-11-05T23:11:00.000-08:00

It has been a little while since I have updated my blog. I suppose that is a good thing as this is supposed to be my therapy, I guess I haven't needed therapy!

I am loving Mitchell, he is such a pleasant baby. He loves to be cuddled and doesn't seem to mind being passed around as long as he is being held. He has decided that he needs to sleep with mom and dad (or maybe we decided that!) Since I have let him sleep with us I am getting no sleep. I wake up everytime he wiggles or grunts, but I enjoy knowing that he is sleeping well.

We went to the cardiologist last friday and Mitchell's heart got a clean bill of health. I walked out of that office feeling like I was on cloud nine, I was so happy! He weighed 7lbs, 3 oz at that appointment which means that he is steadily gaining weight. This week we have met with the physical therapist and the speech and language specialist, the physical therapist gave us some excersizes to do with Mitchell and the speech and language specialist recommended that we start signing to him when he is awake. We have been getting so much information and so many suggestions and bits of advice, it's hard to remember everything and keep it all straight!

I finally have pictures to post of my little man, Mitchell Beck Green.

Enjoy,

Katie

2009-10-24T21:34:00.000-07:00

Today was a rough day! I don't know why, it just was. I spent so much of my day crying, the tears just wouldn't stop today! I think I am going to go on a low dose of an anti-depressant so that my emotions will even out. I can't handle crying anymore.
We took all three kids to the Halloween carnival at Maddi's school. So many people peeked at Mitchell who was curled up in his sling and told me how beautiful he is, that's nice to hear. I think he is beautiful!
Mitchell is really starting to eat well. It seems like every time I turn around he is hungry! I can't wait for him to put on some weight so he doesn't feel so little! I am excited for him to get bigger and begin to smile and coo, it might be a little while but I am still excited. I think that he will be a smiley guy as he is so mellow and seems to be happy most of the time.
Mitchell is crying so I guess that it is bathtime!
Love to you all,
Katie

A Night OFF!!

2009-10-22T16:34:00.000-07:00

I am officially not sleeping at night but it's all right because Mike is a trooper and lets me sleep in the morning. Mitchell was up this morning from 3:30 until about 6, he went to sleep and let me sleep until 7 when it was time to get the older two up and off to school. I hope that I can get him to sleep through the night here soon....

Tonight, Mike and I are going on our first date since Mitchell arrived. A friend of ours has agreed to watch the three kids so that we can get out for an hour or so. I am so excited!! I think that we will just go out and talk about something besides Mitchell, I am not sure what that topic will be but we need to talk about something else! We have been dwelling on Mitchell and his diagnosis for the past two weeks so talking about something else will be nice.

I will let you all know how our date went..
Love,
Katie

2009-10-21T22:07:00.000-07:00

As I look back on the last two weeks I am reminded of going to the dentist and getting dental work done, the shot hurts and then the numbness kicks in and you don't feel anything for a while but when the numbness starts to wear off you slowly start to feel again and it might hurt a little but you know that it will go away at some point. That is where I am, the numb feeling is starting to wear off and I know that some days I will feel pain but it will get better.

I got a phone call today from a wonderful woman who works with special needs children in our area. She is going to come over in the next week or so to do an intake on Mitchell into her program. She will help us fill out all of the paper work for SSI and State aid. We never thought we would need any assistance in raising our children, we're not about being supported by the government but it looks like we will need all of the assistance we can get when it comes to raising Mitchell, he is going to get expensive!! She also talked to us about physical therapy and speech services.... This is so much to take in as three weeks ago we were preparing for our healthy baby who wasn't going to have any problems!!

2009-10-20T21:27:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that two weeks have passed since I gave birth to Mitchell. So much has happened in the last two weeks and I am still having a hard time wrapping my head around it all. The good thing is that Mitchell is here and healthy overall. Now that he is here, I can't imagine life without him!

I started an American Sign Language class tonight with Mitchell in mind. It was really interesting and took my mind off of everything else. I learned to sign "Hello, my name is Katie", I also learned a lot of other things. Mike is going to start coming with me so that we can learn it together. I am really excited to learn this new language that may someday benefit Mitchell.

I think that I am ready to re-enter the world. I have felt so alone for the past two weeks but after tonight's class and the fun I had, I think that I need to start getting out and living again. I will be a better mom if I get out and do things. I am excited for everything that comes with this time of year, pumpkin carving, Halloween parties, costumes and carnivals. I need to spend time doing these things with Maddi and Merrick, they need their mommy back!

Normal

2009-10-19T16:49:00.000-07:00

Mitchell's Pediatrician appointment went well. We discussed Mitchell's overall health and what steps to take next. He will be seeing a Pediatric Cardiologist and an Ear, Nose and Throat/ Audiologist in Reno, hopefully we get through those hurdles without any major surgeries.

As I look into Mitchell's future, I not only worry about his health but also how people will look at him. I know that he is surrounded by love but those that don't know us or him might look at him differently. People are mean and Mitchell, I am sure, will get his fair share of mean and nasty remarks, knowing that many people will not see him as "Normal" hurts! We will treat him the same as our other two children and he will be expected to follow the same rules. He will be "Normal" to us!

I am surprised at how many of our friends have special needs children in their families or are close to a child who has special needs, it is comforting to know that they will love Mitchell and see him for who he is. I know Mitchell will grow up being loved by so many and I am sure that he will touch a lot of lives.

My aunt said something that has stuck with me over the past week. "We all have "Stuff," Mitchell's "Stuff" just has a name."

Love to all,
Katie

Our Blessing

2009-10-18T17:10:00.000-07:00

It has been almost two weeks since Mitchell was born. He was born with Down's Syndrome and we had no idea that our child would have a condition as life altering as that. We were so happy when he entered the world but I knew instinctively that something wasn't quite right, call it mother's intuition but I knew. He only weighed 6 lbs, 10 oz. when my other babies both weighed around 9 lbs. His weight made me wonder... Then when he didn't pass either of his hearing screens, warning bells started to sound. The morning the Pediatrician came in and told me what his suspicions were, I came apart. I don't think I have ever cried that hard. Poor Mitchell slept on my chest while my tears washed over him. Mike wasn't with me, he was in Susanville with Maddi and Merrick and I have never felt so alone. That was the hardest day of my life.
Since bringing him home, life has gotten better. We got a definite diagnosis of Down's Syndrome. Knowing what he has will help us know how to raise him and the kinds of services he will need. He is such a good baby, he very seldom cries and sleeps well. While life has gotten better since finding out what he has, I still have my days of grief and heartache and I am not sure that they will ever go away completely. It feels good to know that I have so many great friends and family members that are helping me through this with their kind words and prayers. While I have a lot of support, some days I still feel so alone.
Tomorrow, Mitchell has an appt. with the Pediatrician. Mike and I have so many questions to ask, this is so new to us. He feels like he's our first child even though I am an experienced mom!! We are concerned about so many health issues he might have, heart, thyroid, skeletal, hearing, vision and digestion. I try not to think about these things as they are unknown. I try to think about what I do know, he is eating and digesting his food, he is very wiggly and is trying to pick his head up, he can hear out of his left ear and he will turn his head to look at you when he hears a voice. He is doing so many good things!

Wow, It's been a long time!!

2009-02-17T14:00:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it has almost been two months since I last posted. So much has happened, It's hard to know where to begin!! I got a job with the State of California working at one of our local prisons, not crazy about it but it is a job. We have been really busy with everything now that I am working full time, I am still doing PTA, Girl Scouts and School Board on top of raising two kids and trying to keep Mike happy. My Girl Scout troop recently sold cookies, we ended up selling around 1600 boxes- WHOO-HOO!!! Merrick got a haircut, his hair is no longer and now I miss his beautiful blond locks. Boy, I hope it grows back quickly.
Until next time,
Katie

2008-12-25T22:22:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!! I hope all of you have had a blessed day and that you are all anxiously awaiting the new year! We had a great Christmas at our house, Mike's dad is here and will be here through Saturday, the kids were once again spoiled rotten and we had a wonderful dinner with my family. We are getting together with friends tomorrow for dinner and we are going to be going to Reno on Saturday to go have some fun with Mike's dad.

We need a HEAT WAVE!!

2008-12-20T11:51:00.000-08:00

It has been so cold here, hasn't gotten above freezing for at least a week! Our washing machine is frozen because it is so cold, hopefully once it warms up again it will begin to work again. Perhaps a move to Mexico is in order, at least it is warm there!
The kiddos are home for the next two weeks- hopefully I don't go crazy while they are home. I actually enjoy having them home. Having them home means less running around for me, I can stay home and enjoy playing with them. I often feel like I am a taxi, running from school to school, home to dance, preschool to home, picking up friends and so on, you'd think that I drive a yellow vehicle!

I am official!!

2008-12-11T19:32:00.000-08:00

It's official, I am now a trustee on the Susanville School District Board of Directors! I was sworn in last night along with the other two new board members. I look forward to learning about the administrative aspects associated with running a school district.
Our house is becoming quite festive as we anxiously await the arrival of Mike's dad and Santa Claus. Our family went out last weekend to get a load of firewood and also to find the perfect tree, mission accomplished! Our tree is beautiful and the kids have had a ball decorating it with the millions of ornaments that we have. We are also begining our seasonal baking which Maddison is enjoying helping with. She loves helping to make anything in the kitchen, I am not allowed to bake without her by my side- she is mommy's helper! I hope all of you are well as you begin your family's holiday preparations.
Feliz Navidad,
Katie

Life is ROUGH!!

2008-11-06T21:27:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is going to be rough, I get up at 5:00am to go to Sacramento for the State of California clerical test. I am not that worried about it because I have heard that it isn't that difficult. I think I am more nervous about the drive down there. It's going to be a long day, that is for sure.
Yesterday was my last day at work and I am going to miss them so MUCH!! I loved working with kindergarteners, they are alot of fun and have so much energy! I went and applied for a job today with Lassen Family Services, I would be a Parent Educator, which means I would be going on home visits to work with court appointed families. It sounds interesting and I am hoping I get it. I just know that I need a job!

2008-11-02T23:06:00.000-08:00

It once again has been a while since I posted, What can I say, I am a busy girl!! We had a busy week, we had Pediatrician appt. in Reno where I ended up getting really sick, we got the majority of our new floors layed and we had a Halloween party at our house!! I am getting excited, I go to test for the state on Friday, I have no idea what to expect but I usually test fairly well so I am not too worried about passing. I think I am more nervous about the drive down to Sacremento because my mom and I are going to do it in one day!! Crazy, I know but neither of us wants to spend the money for a hotel. Maddi is getting excited as well because she is going on a trip with my parents in a couple of weeks up to Oregon to spend some time with my aunt, uncle and grandmother. She loves it when the attention is focused completly on her. We have had an extreme mouse problem, I have killed 3 today, they gross me out!! I also just went into the garage because I heard a loud noise and guess what was out there? A *%!$(@ RACOON!! They are such PESTS!!! For those of you who visit my blog for pics of the kids, here is a pic of Merrick, who fell asleep at 5:30 tonight!! He didn't even eat dinner, I guess he'll be starving in the morning.

I'm not going CRAZY, I'm already there!!

2008-10-27T21:12:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I posted but I haven't had much time to just sit at the computer. I have been so busy preparing for our school's Fall Festival that I haven't thought about many other things. We are all most ready to begin putting down our laminate floors and finishing up that project. I will be thrilled when it is all over. I really am about to loose my mind- just too much going on. I am up to 16 girls in my Brownie troop and they just keep signing up, agggghhhh! I am really excited to have such a great group of girls, I thought about turning it in to two troops but they all are good girls and I can't decide which ones I would get rid of so I guess they are all going to be mine. Our next meeting is a week from tomorrow and I need to plan something that will keep all of the girls busy, I think we will do something related to Thanksgiving. That is all I can write for now so I will post later!

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-15T17:05:00.000-07:00

Today, Merrick and I went to Wemple's Pumpkin Patch with Maddison's 1st grade class. It was alot of fun we picked pumpkins, went on a hay ride, saw farm animals and played. I had even more fun because I went with the Brewers, they are always fun to be around. The Pumpkin Patch donated 20 pumpkins to PTA so Steven and I went and picked them, that was the highlight of my day (*snicker snicker*) It was a fun filled day and I am tired but I still have tap class tonight, hopefully I have the energy to move my feet.

Holy Cow!!

2008-10-13T18:57:00.000-07:00

Holy Cow, I didn't realize what an undertaking this remodeling thing would be! I have been painting, pulling up carpet, pulling up tack strips and painting some more! I want it to be over but it seems to be neverending. My kiddos have been neglected during this process, they have been forced to play by themselves (GASP)!!
The kids want to help us tonight and they are into everything, it was easier to get things done today when they went over to Denise's house (THANK YOU Denise!!) I got alot done today and I am seeing a faint light at the end of the tunnel. We are hoping to begin putting down the hardwood floors this coming weekend and then we will be almost done.

2008-10-12T10:21:00.000-07:00

I got happy mail on Friday!! It was my Halloween jar of whimsy. Steph rocked this swap, she went above and beyond the requirements of the swap! We were all so thankful for the Halloween goodies, the kids loved their felt puppets, Mike and I loved our goodie bags and I loved all my scrapbook goodies. It was decorated so SPOOKILY- it was AWESOME!! Thank you Stephanie!!

On another note, we are getting so close to being done with all of the painting and getting ready to begin laying new flooring. I am so excited to have all of this done, it will look great! I will post pictures of it all when we are finished!

2008-10-09T17:22:00.000-07:00

Sorry, I haven't been able to post for a while. I am busy trying to plan a "Fall Festival" for our schools PTA. I think it is so silly that we can't call it a Halloween carnival, I really don't care if people are offended by the word "Halloween," they are more than welcome to stay home if they don't want their children participating in a "Halloween" carnival. It drives me crazy that we are forced to make everybody happy by being P.C. Why can't we have a CHRISTMAS break anymore....? Sure, we have a Winter break but what is so wrong with the word Christmas? Same goes for Easter, it's no longer Easter vacation, it's now Spring Break!! Maybe we should have school over these school breaks so those that think these words to be blasphamas can continue to go to school and let those of us who believe have our "Christmas" breaks!!
I am going to spend some time tonight watching paint dry..HAHA! Actually, I am going to be painting the hall and start on the ceiling, sounds fun!! I am so excited for this project to be over!! I want my floors in and I want everything painted but I really don't want to do the work that goes along with it.
I'm off to paint.. Have a great evening.

What a DAY!!

2008-10-01T20:25:00.000-07:00

Today was rough!! Maddison came with in inches of getting hit by a car, she ran out into the street from a blind spot and the gal in the car was going slow (Thank GOD) she hit her brakes just in time and avoided hitting Maddi by mere inches! I spent my morning crying and freaked out because it really shook me up. I was worthless at work because I was drained and when I came home to tell my husband about it he basically told me that if I would have watched her closer that wouldn't have happened! He made me feel really small! We had a talk with Maddi this afternoon about street safety and making sure that you look both ways before you dart out into the street, not sure she got it but I hope she did.
I had my tap dance class tonight and boy, it's hard! I am so uncordinated but it is still alot of fun. There are alot of fun girls in my class and it is always an enjoyable hour.
Still nothing fun in the mail-BUMMER!! Maybe tommorrow, when I get what I am waiting for I will not only post pics but I will also explain my obsession.
Till tommorrow,
Katie

Wow, Glad Tuesday is over!

2008-09-30T22:55:00.000-07:00

I am so glad that today is DONE!! I was incredibly busy today, PTA, dinner for us and for another family, work and just running the kiddos around. It is now 11:00 pm and I am exhausted! I hope that tommorrow is a little less busy, it should be, I only have my tap class.
I'm also hoping for something fun in the mail tommorrow...... I will post if it arrives.

Oh, How I love Sundays!!

2008-09-28T13:45:00.000-07:00

Sunday is by far my favorite day! There isn't alot going on, Mike is into watching football, the kids enjoy playing together, leaving me to do whatever I please!! I am still in jammas and it is almost 2:00!! Oh, how I love Sundays!
Today I discovered Etsy and I love it... People are so CREATIVE!! I only hope that someday I will be half as creative as some of the people there! It has inspired me and I am going to be scrappin' for the rest of the day.
Hope you all have a fabulous afternoon!
Katie

A sad week

2008-09-27T20:36:00.000-07:00

This has been a sad week at our house.... We had 5 kittens that a stray cat had in our garage, two were hit by a car this week and we tryed to rescue a 3rd only to have it die on our kitchen floor. Maddison is devestated, Mike and Maddi just buried the 3rd kitten and she has been crying ever since we found it on our kitchen floor. Mike has *PROMISED* her a new kitten but I am thinking more along the lines of a hermit crab or hamster, we just don't have good luck with kittens!
On a positive note- Our living room is coming along nicely, we have about 2/3 of it painted and we should finish painting it tomorrow. Hopefully, we can begin ripping out the carpet this weekend as well. I will post pictures as soon as we finish this project.