A warm winter jumper for a little girl who loves (detachable) ribbons
And a tote bag** to hold a nephew's Valentine's goodies, with a pocket of course
*From "Last-Minute Patchwork + Quilted Gifts"
** From "Bend-the-Rules Sewing"
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Happy Sewing
A fat pincushion*
A warm winter jumper for a little girl who loves (detachable) ribbons
And a tote bag** to hold a nephew's Valentine's goodies, with a pocket of course
*From "Last-Minute Patchwork + Quilted Gifts"
** From "Bend-the-Rules Sewing"
A warm winter jumper for a little girl who loves (detachable) ribbons
And a tote bag** to hold a nephew's Valentine's goodies, with a pocket of course
*From "Last-Minute Patchwork + Quilted Gifts"
** From "Bend-the-Rules Sewing"
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Puppet Theater
Several people have asked me about the puppet theater I sewed for Addie. (See post below.)
The fabric:
Timeless Treasures "Chloe" Cut Out Bubbles, in Aqua
Timeless Treasures "Chloe" Honeycomb Textur, in Pink
Timeless Treasures "Chloe" Shirting Stripe, in Pastel
I bought mine at Hancocks of Paducah.
The other stuff:
The ball fringe was one of my Canton finds, but probably any good fabric store would have a good selection. I've also seen the theater made with bunting, regular fringe, etc. I guess it depends on your fabric!
It hangs up by a tension rod, in any standard 34" doorway. To keep it taut across the middle, there's a thin dowel rod inserted.
The whole thing rolls up into the case and can easily be stowed away when it's not puppet season. :)
If you go here, you can find other pictures of the puppet theater. I've found some really great inspiration here! Click on "More Pictures" beneath the photo set to browse.
I hope you have a happy Sunday!
The fabric:
Timeless Treasures "Chloe" Cut Out Bubbles, in Aqua
Timeless Treasures "Chloe" Honeycomb Textur, in Pink
Timeless Treasures "Chloe" Shirting Stripe, in Pastel
I bought mine at Hancocks of Paducah.
The other stuff:
The ball fringe was one of my Canton finds, but probably any good fabric store would have a good selection. I've also seen the theater made with bunting, regular fringe, etc. I guess it depends on your fabric!
It hangs up by a tension rod, in any standard 34" doorway. To keep it taut across the middle, there's a thin dowel rod inserted.
The whole thing rolls up into the case and can easily be stowed away when it's not puppet season. :)
If you go here, you can find other pictures of the puppet theater. I've found some really great inspiration here! Click on "More Pictures" beneath the photo set to browse.
I hope you have a happy Sunday!
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Fun New Things
Addison's puppet theater, from "Bend-the-Rules Sewing"
This was a really fun project to sew! It is definitely easy enough for a beginner, and because it's mostly sewing really long seams, I talked to my mom on the phone the entire time, making it even more fun. I love how it turned out.
This is the case that holds the puppet theater when it's not in use. It rolls up into the case, which is perfect for storing it under the crib or in the closet. This might be my favorite feature, because Addie's room is too small to be storing large toys!
The boys got in the action today, putting on a puppet show for Addie. You can tell she's not quite sure what to think of it.
A new outfit
This is a hodge-podge of projects, brought together into one cute outfit! The jacket is the Sweet Wee Jacket, from "Bend-the-Rules Sewing." I love this because it's made of jersey, so it doesn't unravel, meaning there's no need for hems. You just cut it out, sew up the sides, and attach the binding around the neck. This is the second one of these I've made for her.
And the pants are from the Britches & Bloomers pattern, with a drawstring waist instead of the given elastic. Because it's made of muslin, I thought it needed a little color at the waistline. And then I added a Wee Wonderfuls Stitchette embroidery. I've been wanting to to this project for a long time and am thrilled we're all healthy enough to go to church tonight, so she can actually wear it! If she ever slows down enough for a picture, I'll post one later. (She's a whirlwind.)Oh, it's a nice feeling to get some projects done! Of course there's always a stack more to be started, but that's the way I like it. What on earth did I do before I learned to knit and sew?
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Schedules, Pigs, and Blogging
More answers, in no particular order:
Bella wanted to know if we follow a schedule or routine, and what our typical day looks like: CHAOS! Just kidding. Well, mostly just kidding. It is a little hectic here, mostly because Addison is a monkey and climbs onto the stove every chance she gets, and Grayson is a food thief and raids the fridge, usually when my back is turned to get Addie off the stove. Being tag-teamed by the toddler set makes it crazy.
I've set a million schedules, followed them for one day, and then realized I can't follow them. So we live by a flexible routine: Get up, get dressed and eat, play. While they play, I get all my housework done. If I do it early in the day, I can get it done faster. Around 11 a.m. Caiden and I do lessons while the little ones are in roomtime, and then we have lunch. After lunch the littles have a nap while Caiden plays quietly and I do whatever it is I have planned for the day, whether sewing, knitting, talking on the phone, or taking a bubble bath with a book. It's my roomtime :) After nap we have a snack, and the kids play or we run errands. Late afternoon is a killer; everyone's fussy and cranky and tired of playing nicely. If it's nice out, we'll take a walk or play outside, and if it's not, I'll let them do art or play-doh at the table. But not everyday! I can only handle so much paint and play-doh. On "neat" days, we read books together. After Chris gets home we hang out, eat, the kids get bathed, read to, and kissed, and then they're off to bed. Once they're in bed Chris and I hang out together, and this is also when I get the majority of my knitting done. I try to go to bed by 11. So there you have it! A day in the life of Us. :)
Speaking of knitting, Pam asked which I like better: knitting or crocheting. Knitting, hands-down. I don't know why; I just do. I've crocheted longer than I've knit, though.
This one is going to disappoint: several people asked what the deal is with my husband's name(s). And I'd love to tell you, but he vetoed me! It is a funny story, though, and if he ever lets me, I'll tell you. Just suffice it to say that his immediate family calls him Chris, and my parents and sister call him Chris, but my brother and the rest of the world call him Pace. Except his friends from school and college. And even a few of them call him Pace. And then there's a handful of people, mostly my friends from college, who call him Chris/Pace. Caiden calls him Chris (Well, he calls him Daddy, but he says his daddy's name is Chris, but he doesn't bat an eyelash when everybody else calls him Pace. It's funny.) Oh, I wish I could tell you the whole story! But it's not my story, so I can't. :) Sorry about that one. It'll just have to remain a mystery . . .
TNS asked about the mustard seed trees. I need to post a picture of them! The infomercial didn't lie--those things were 6 feet tall and 1/2 inch wide when we planted them in May, and by the time their leaves fell off in December, they're each about 20 feet tall, with trunks several inches wide. They were about $30 each, and they dwarfed our other oak trees, which cost 10 times more and were three times taller when we planted them. When we move, if our yard is lacking, we'll buy more. We love them.
Speaking of moving, Kathy and Andrea asked why we want to move. We've outgrown our house! We moved here with one baby, and now we're living like sardines with three kids! We love our neighbors, love our house, and love living super close to my two best friends, but we need some space. On top of that, we want to move to the country, where we can have a much larger yard with big trees, and we're pining for a pool. It's hot enough here to swim May through October, and we used to have a pool and loved it. So if we can sell our house, I'll be sad to tell this house goodbye, knowing I brought home two babies to it, but I can easily fall in love with another house. Especially if there's a fifth bedroom for my ever-expanding sewing and knitting stash!
Several people, quite a few actually, want to know what I like least about attending a mega church. I have to be honest: absolutely nothing. Chris and I have served together in three other, much smaller churches, and while we loved the people in those churches, we didn't love the politics we saw there. Our church is pastor-led, and it's our pastor and staff who make the decisions. The result is a church where division and politics are nil, and I love it. We've been there for over nine years, and as a pastor's wife, I can honestly say I can't imagine ever going anywhere else. The church is large enough that I can serve where I feel gifted, and nobody's going to pressure me to play the piano or work in the nursery or serve meals, if that's not where I feel led. (Although I do, actually, work in the nursery.) There's very little pressure on me, and I am free to be myself. I love our pastor and his wife, and the staff is very much like family. It is a wonderful church, and the children's ministry alone makes it worth attending. But we loved it long before we had children! It's just a great church.
Now it helps that we're on staff, and that we've attended for so long, but I believe I know more people than I did at our other churches. There are more people to know, of course, so that helps! But I really don't have a single negative come to mind when I think of my (huge) church. After all, heaven's not going to be small. :)
Kate asked why I won't read Grayson "The Three Little Pigs" as often as he'd like. I have two reasons: with three children to read to, we try to combine storytime as much as possible. I have the goal of reading at least an hour a day to the kids, and if I have to read separate stories to each one, we'd all be hungry and the house would be filthy. I can't do three hours a day! Caiden has listened to The Three Little Pigs as often as he can, but even he, the most cheerful and enthusiastic child I know, can only handle hearing it seven times a week. I guess I could read it a second time to Grayson before bed, but there are just too many great books waiting to be read! He'd listen to that story to the exclusion of everything else, and there are so many other books I'd like to read to him, that I have to impose a once-a-day limit. Besides, we read Paul Galdone's version, which is about twice as long as the original, and we often use the knit set I made to act it out, so it takes a while. Once Grayson learns to read, he can read it to himself day and night :)
Kathy and Janet asked about Lisa Whelchel. Kathy wanted to know if we still do stuff together. Yes, we still get together for MomTime twice a month, and occasionally Chris and I go out with Steve and Lisa or get together at their house or ours. She was "Lisa Whelchel the author and speaker" to me for the first year or so that we were friends, and now she's just Lisa, my friend. Janet wanted to know how Lisa and her family are doing. They're doing great! She's currently taking a hiatus from writing, but once she's back, I'm sure she'll update everyone on her website.
(Okay, this is getting long, but I've never been known for brevity, and I have to get these answers finished!)
There were a couple of questions about blogging: Jenny asked how I got interested in it: I got a degree in writing in college but never wrote, so my husband encouraged me to start again. I decided a blog was an easy way to do it.
Kristi wants to know whose blogs I read. Well, I started out reading a set list of about 15 or so, but then I got interested in knitting, so that led to a whole new list, and now sewing, which has opened up my blogging world! I don't have the time to read that many blogs in a day, so I always read my mom's, usually read a handful of blogs that belong to friends and family, and try to check in once a week or so with a multitude of other ones. I'm not a faithful commenter, simply because of the time constraints. I try to visit the blogs of the people who leave me comments, even if I don't comment, and I'll also sometimes read the blogs of other homeschoolers, especially those using Charlotte Mason's methods. Lately I've been immersed in the world of Ravelry and Sew Mama Sew tutorials, but what I read really depends on what I've got going on in my life. When Addie was sick, I spent a lot of time reading the blogs of fellow mamas with medically-fragile children. Thankfully we're out of that, but I still check in with those moms and children pretty often.
And finally, Stacey asked how I got good blog traffic. Well, when I first started blogging, I had a couple of friends link to me on their blogs, one of them being Boomama, who has since become a blogging sensation. (Note to clarify: She and I were not friends pre-blogging, but we have a friend in common, so we became bloggy friends.) I think Shannon also linked to me in her post once or twice, and my numbers went way up. And right after that, Lisa Whelchel put one of my posts on her website and linked to me, and that certainly helped! After that, Addison had open-heart surgery, and everybody who read my blog linked to me that day, asking for prayer. So outside of having a famous friend or an urgent need for prayer, I'd recommend that you comment often on others' blogs, let them know if you link to them in a post, and take it from there! I have a couple of friends who work very hard at blogging, and they've been successful in that realm.
Well, the coffee's cold again, and we have a tile guy coming in half an hour, so I need to get moving! Thanks, as always, for all your thoughtful questions, and for actually being interested in my life! On a day of small things, it's nice to know my life is interesting to somebody else. :)
Next time I answer questions, I promise to answer all the remaining questions about marriage and all things related, as well anything else left.
*Please forgive me if any of my links don't work. My computer is being cranky this morning, and I don't have any time left to check them. I'll check later on today to make sure they're all okay.
Bella wanted to know if we follow a schedule or routine, and what our typical day looks like: CHAOS! Just kidding. Well, mostly just kidding. It is a little hectic here, mostly because Addison is a monkey and climbs onto the stove every chance she gets, and Grayson is a food thief and raids the fridge, usually when my back is turned to get Addie off the stove. Being tag-teamed by the toddler set makes it crazy.
I've set a million schedules, followed them for one day, and then realized I can't follow them. So we live by a flexible routine: Get up, get dressed and eat, play. While they play, I get all my housework done. If I do it early in the day, I can get it done faster. Around 11 a.m. Caiden and I do lessons while the little ones are in roomtime, and then we have lunch. After lunch the littles have a nap while Caiden plays quietly and I do whatever it is I have planned for the day, whether sewing, knitting, talking on the phone, or taking a bubble bath with a book. It's my roomtime :) After nap we have a snack, and the kids play or we run errands. Late afternoon is a killer; everyone's fussy and cranky and tired of playing nicely. If it's nice out, we'll take a walk or play outside, and if it's not, I'll let them do art or play-doh at the table. But not everyday! I can only handle so much paint and play-doh. On "neat" days, we read books together. After Chris gets home we hang out, eat, the kids get bathed, read to, and kissed, and then they're off to bed. Once they're in bed Chris and I hang out together, and this is also when I get the majority of my knitting done. I try to go to bed by 11. So there you have it! A day in the life of Us. :)
Speaking of knitting, Pam asked which I like better: knitting or crocheting. Knitting, hands-down. I don't know why; I just do. I've crocheted longer than I've knit, though.
This one is going to disappoint: several people asked what the deal is with my husband's name(s). And I'd love to tell you, but he vetoed me! It is a funny story, though, and if he ever lets me, I'll tell you. Just suffice it to say that his immediate family calls him Chris, and my parents and sister call him Chris, but my brother and the rest of the world call him Pace. Except his friends from school and college. And even a few of them call him Pace. And then there's a handful of people, mostly my friends from college, who call him Chris/Pace. Caiden calls him Chris (Well, he calls him Daddy, but he says his daddy's name is Chris, but he doesn't bat an eyelash when everybody else calls him Pace. It's funny.) Oh, I wish I could tell you the whole story! But it's not my story, so I can't. :) Sorry about that one. It'll just have to remain a mystery . . .
TNS asked about the mustard seed trees. I need to post a picture of them! The infomercial didn't lie--those things were 6 feet tall and 1/2 inch wide when we planted them in May, and by the time their leaves fell off in December, they're each about 20 feet tall, with trunks several inches wide. They were about $30 each, and they dwarfed our other oak trees, which cost 10 times more and were three times taller when we planted them. When we move, if our yard is lacking, we'll buy more. We love them.
Speaking of moving, Kathy and Andrea asked why we want to move. We've outgrown our house! We moved here with one baby, and now we're living like sardines with three kids! We love our neighbors, love our house, and love living super close to my two best friends, but we need some space. On top of that, we want to move to the country, where we can have a much larger yard with big trees, and we're pining for a pool. It's hot enough here to swim May through October, and we used to have a pool and loved it. So if we can sell our house, I'll be sad to tell this house goodbye, knowing I brought home two babies to it, but I can easily fall in love with another house. Especially if there's a fifth bedroom for my ever-expanding sewing and knitting stash!
Several people, quite a few actually, want to know what I like least about attending a mega church. I have to be honest: absolutely nothing. Chris and I have served together in three other, much smaller churches, and while we loved the people in those churches, we didn't love the politics we saw there. Our church is pastor-led, and it's our pastor and staff who make the decisions. The result is a church where division and politics are nil, and I love it. We've been there for over nine years, and as a pastor's wife, I can honestly say I can't imagine ever going anywhere else. The church is large enough that I can serve where I feel gifted, and nobody's going to pressure me to play the piano or work in the nursery or serve meals, if that's not where I feel led. (Although I do, actually, work in the nursery.) There's very little pressure on me, and I am free to be myself. I love our pastor and his wife, and the staff is very much like family. It is a wonderful church, and the children's ministry alone makes it worth attending. But we loved it long before we had children! It's just a great church.
Now it helps that we're on staff, and that we've attended for so long, but I believe I know more people than I did at our other churches. There are more people to know, of course, so that helps! But I really don't have a single negative come to mind when I think of my (huge) church. After all, heaven's not going to be small. :)
Kate asked why I won't read Grayson "The Three Little Pigs" as often as he'd like. I have two reasons: with three children to read to, we try to combine storytime as much as possible. I have the goal of reading at least an hour a day to the kids, and if I have to read separate stories to each one, we'd all be hungry and the house would be filthy. I can't do three hours a day! Caiden has listened to The Three Little Pigs as often as he can, but even he, the most cheerful and enthusiastic child I know, can only handle hearing it seven times a week. I guess I could read it a second time to Grayson before bed, but there are just too many great books waiting to be read! He'd listen to that story to the exclusion of everything else, and there are so many other books I'd like to read to him, that I have to impose a once-a-day limit. Besides, we read Paul Galdone's version, which is about twice as long as the original, and we often use the knit set I made to act it out, so it takes a while. Once Grayson learns to read, he can read it to himself day and night :)
Kathy and Janet asked about Lisa Whelchel. Kathy wanted to know if we still do stuff together. Yes, we still get together for MomTime twice a month, and occasionally Chris and I go out with Steve and Lisa or get together at their house or ours. She was "Lisa Whelchel the author and speaker" to me for the first year or so that we were friends, and now she's just Lisa, my friend. Janet wanted to know how Lisa and her family are doing. They're doing great! She's currently taking a hiatus from writing, but once she's back, I'm sure she'll update everyone on her website.
(Okay, this is getting long, but I've never been known for brevity, and I have to get these answers finished!)
There were a couple of questions about blogging: Jenny asked how I got interested in it: I got a degree in writing in college but never wrote, so my husband encouraged me to start again. I decided a blog was an easy way to do it.
Kristi wants to know whose blogs I read. Well, I started out reading a set list of about 15 or so, but then I got interested in knitting, so that led to a whole new list, and now sewing, which has opened up my blogging world! I don't have the time to read that many blogs in a day, so I always read my mom's, usually read a handful of blogs that belong to friends and family, and try to check in once a week or so with a multitude of other ones. I'm not a faithful commenter, simply because of the time constraints. I try to visit the blogs of the people who leave me comments, even if I don't comment, and I'll also sometimes read the blogs of other homeschoolers, especially those using Charlotte Mason's methods. Lately I've been immersed in the world of Ravelry and Sew Mama Sew tutorials, but what I read really depends on what I've got going on in my life. When Addie was sick, I spent a lot of time reading the blogs of fellow mamas with medically-fragile children. Thankfully we're out of that, but I still check in with those moms and children pretty often.
And finally, Stacey asked how I got good blog traffic. Well, when I first started blogging, I had a couple of friends link to me on their blogs, one of them being Boomama, who has since become a blogging sensation. (Note to clarify: She and I were not friends pre-blogging, but we have a friend in common, so we became bloggy friends.) I think Shannon also linked to me in her post once or twice, and my numbers went way up. And right after that, Lisa Whelchel put one of my posts on her website and linked to me, and that certainly helped! After that, Addison had open-heart surgery, and everybody who read my blog linked to me that day, asking for prayer. So outside of having a famous friend or an urgent need for prayer, I'd recommend that you comment often on others' blogs, let them know if you link to them in a post, and take it from there! I have a couple of friends who work very hard at blogging, and they've been successful in that realm.
Well, the coffee's cold again, and we have a tile guy coming in half an hour, so I need to get moving! Thanks, as always, for all your thoughtful questions, and for actually being interested in my life! On a day of small things, it's nice to know my life is interesting to somebody else. :)
Next time I answer questions, I promise to answer all the remaining questions about marriage and all things related, as well anything else left.
*Please forgive me if any of my links don't work. My computer is being cranky this morning, and I don't have any time left to check them. I'll check later on today to make sure they're all okay.
Monday, January 21, 2008
WIPs
I have several irons on the fire lately, which is kind of normal for me. I can't seem to do anything halfway, which tends to drive me crazy, but I'm powerless to it. Lately the sewing and knitting have taken hold of me, and I'm one obsessed woman.
My weekly trip to JoAnn's is something I plan for all week long. Today I went with a Diet Coke, sat at the pattern books table, and just planned and planned. There's nothing that makes me happier than a notebook full of lists and plans. I came home with an armload of fabric to make spring outfits for Addie, along with odds and ends that are sure to keep me busy for a long, long time.
Not that I have nothing to do right now:
A blankie for a new baby boy. It needs to be hand-sewn along the turning edge. There's a full-sized one, for a different baby boy, that also needs to be hand-sewn. (Look, Mom, it's the plantation chair I told you about!)
A pink stripey version of Elefante, this one for Addie.
Grayson's navy blue double-breasted coat, about 20% finished. I love the woven-style pattern!
This one makes me happy just to look at it. It's the Sweet Wee Jacket from "Bend-the-Rules Sewing", shortened, to be worn over a cream eyelet peasant blouse, and the Britches & Bloomers pants, complete with ruffled ankles and a Wee Wonderfuls embroidery.
I need another project like I need the stomach flu, but if I don't submit to my inner need, I wake up all night long, thinking of projects I want to start. It's a sickness. But oh, what a happy one! I will say, however, that it's powerful motivation to make myself promise to get one project done before I add another to the stack! And on that note, I'm off to work . . .
(*WIP stands for Work in Progress. I don't even want to admit how long it took me to figure that one out!)
My weekly trip to JoAnn's is something I plan for all week long. Today I went with a Diet Coke, sat at the pattern books table, and just planned and planned. There's nothing that makes me happier than a notebook full of lists and plans. I came home with an armload of fabric to make spring outfits for Addie, along with odds and ends that are sure to keep me busy for a long, long time.
Not that I have nothing to do right now:
A blankie for a new baby boy. It needs to be hand-sewn along the turning edge. There's a full-sized one, for a different baby boy, that also needs to be hand-sewn. (Look, Mom, it's the plantation chair I told you about!)
A pink stripey version of Elefante, this one for Addie.
Grayson's navy blue double-breasted coat, about 20% finished. I love the woven-style pattern!
This one makes me happy just to look at it. It's the Sweet Wee Jacket from "Bend-the-Rules Sewing", shortened, to be worn over a cream eyelet peasant blouse, and the Britches & Bloomers pants, complete with ruffled ankles and a Wee Wonderfuls embroidery.I need another project like I need the stomach flu, but if I don't submit to my inner need, I wake up all night long, thinking of projects I want to start. It's a sickness. But oh, what a happy one! I will say, however, that it's powerful motivation to make myself promise to get one project done before I add another to the stack! And on that note, I'm off to work . . .
(*WIP stands for Work in Progress. I don't even want to admit how long it took me to figure that one out!)
Still Sick
I'm taking a break from answering questions today. The virus is still going strong, almost four weeks now, and I feel lousy. On top of the marathon virus and the allergies that are in full swing, my stupid lip keeps swelling, and now one of my eyes has a blocked tear duct from all the sinus blockage. So it's red, swollen, and yucky. I look fantastic, if you can imagine it.
Several of you have wondered what on earth is wrong with me, and if I'm getting better. I had a ton of bloodwork done last week, but I doubt any of it will come back showing problems. The allergist says it sounds like I have acute ideopathic angiodema, which basically means my lips swell randomly on and off for about six weeks, for no discernible reason. And fortunately for me, it's also accompanied by outbreaks of hives. So I've been congested, runny, swell-y (new word, I made it up), crusty, and itchy. I feel as good as I look. And I have to confess, I'm getting very grouchy about the whole thing. I even ditched an afternoon with Bridget and Brittani yesterday because I felt so crummy! I'm really tired of the swelling, but it's the constant congestion that's getting me down. If I could just breathe, I'd sleep a lot better.
On the upside, the allergist also says I'm a good candidate for injections for the allergies, and since I've suffered from them forever, I'm very excited about leaving them behind. And this sheds a lot of light onto the situation with Grayson last year, when we thought he had leukemia. He had hives and petechiae for months, on top of his regular allergies. The pediatrician thought it was an immune system response to a virus, and now that makes complete sense. Evidently he and I are cut from the same cloth. We have hyperactive histamine reactions! That's probably the only thing about us that I could call hyper.
All right, 99% of you won't care a whit about what I just wrote, but for those who've wondered what's going on, there you have it. I'm going back to the allergist this week, so if he has a magical cure for me, I'll let you know.
On a much more charming note, I'm working on the most adorable outfit for Addison, and I can't wait to show you!
Several of you have wondered what on earth is wrong with me, and if I'm getting better. I had a ton of bloodwork done last week, but I doubt any of it will come back showing problems. The allergist says it sounds like I have acute ideopathic angiodema, which basically means my lips swell randomly on and off for about six weeks, for no discernible reason. And fortunately for me, it's also accompanied by outbreaks of hives. So I've been congested, runny, swell-y (new word, I made it up), crusty, and itchy. I feel as good as I look. And I have to confess, I'm getting very grouchy about the whole thing. I even ditched an afternoon with Bridget and Brittani yesterday because I felt so crummy! I'm really tired of the swelling, but it's the constant congestion that's getting me down. If I could just breathe, I'd sleep a lot better.
On the upside, the allergist also says I'm a good candidate for injections for the allergies, and since I've suffered from them forever, I'm very excited about leaving them behind. And this sheds a lot of light onto the situation with Grayson last year, when we thought he had leukemia. He had hives and petechiae for months, on top of his regular allergies. The pediatrician thought it was an immune system response to a virus, and now that makes complete sense. Evidently he and I are cut from the same cloth. We have hyperactive histamine reactions! That's probably the only thing about us that I could call hyper.
All right, 99% of you won't care a whit about what I just wrote, but for those who've wondered what's going on, there you have it. I'm going back to the allergist this week, so if he has a magical cure for me, I'll let you know.
On a much more charming note, I'm working on the most adorable outfit for Addison, and I can't wait to show you!
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Questions Answered: Random & Quick
I've been up since 5 a.m. (Don't ask; long story.), so I might as well knock out a few questions while the caffeine is still working!
Here are short answers to easy questions:
Teri wants to know what we spend per month on groceries. Teri, I have no idea. I know, that's bad, bad, bad, but I really have no idea. I used to do the cash-only system, but I don't like carrying so much cash on me, so I stick to debit cards. Our grocery budget is large, since we have a huge dog, two kids in diapers, and five people to feed. I'm going to guess at least $500, which includes anything I need for the house or for food. If it's more than that, I just don't want to know.
Emily asked about Addison's genetic condition. Emily, I'm going to keep that under wraps for now, because we are not sure we (nor our pediatrician) agree with the diagnosis. She'll see her geneticist again later this spring, and then if she's still diagnosed with it, I'll probably keep it private. If not, then I'll be happy to share. As much as I love to write about my children, I think there are some things they need to decide whether or not to share, and this is one of them.
Polly wants to know if I'll move next door to her. Well, we do want to move, and the idea of life on a farm sounds like a nice change, but it depends where you live. And if you'll take care of any rats, snakes, or large spiders that show up on my doorstep. :)
Crista asked about my simple blog background, and if I've read "The Homeschooling Journey" by Susan & Michael Card. I changed the look of my blog on a whim because I was tired of the old one, but now I think it's a little blase. But as un-blase as life is around here, I think I might keep it! And yes, I read the book and loved it. What a great book on homeschooling! And I heart Michael Card.
Linda asked about running. Unless you count running after Addison when she's put another Lego in her mouth and bolted out of the room, I don't run right now. Breaking my foot put a huge damper on my enthusiasm, and the freezing temps lately don't help. But when I do run, I like to run 3-4 miles, 3-4 times per week. It keeps me sane, not to mention it helps make up for my cookie habit. But lately I've just stuck to the cookies, sans running.
Mom asked where I'd like to go on vacation, and for how long. Mom, anywhere that's not here would be a great vacation. Although if I had to put on a swimsuit right now and stand in the glare of the sun on a beach, I'd lie down and cry. (See above.) Why do you ask, are you offering to watch the hooligans for me (for, let's say, about a week?) Remember, we haven't vacationed alone since our honeymoon. Take pity on me! :)
And last, Jenny asked if Chris and I were going to blog anymore at "And I You." Nope. Chris decided that blogging wasn't his thing, and it's not much of a blog on marriage if only one of us writes, right? So feel free to delete it from Bloglines.
Well, that's it! I still need to answer questions about why we're trying to move, what I think of my big church, life as a pastor's wife, and a few other things, so if you're tired of hearing about me, skip reading til, say, Wednesday. :)
Happy Sunday, friends!
Here are short answers to easy questions:
Teri wants to know what we spend per month on groceries. Teri, I have no idea. I know, that's bad, bad, bad, but I really have no idea. I used to do the cash-only system, but I don't like carrying so much cash on me, so I stick to debit cards. Our grocery budget is large, since we have a huge dog, two kids in diapers, and five people to feed. I'm going to guess at least $500, which includes anything I need for the house or for food. If it's more than that, I just don't want to know.
Emily asked about Addison's genetic condition. Emily, I'm going to keep that under wraps for now, because we are not sure we (nor our pediatrician) agree with the diagnosis. She'll see her geneticist again later this spring, and then if she's still diagnosed with it, I'll probably keep it private. If not, then I'll be happy to share. As much as I love to write about my children, I think there are some things they need to decide whether or not to share, and this is one of them.
Polly wants to know if I'll move next door to her. Well, we do want to move, and the idea of life on a farm sounds like a nice change, but it depends where you live. And if you'll take care of any rats, snakes, or large spiders that show up on my doorstep. :)
Crista asked about my simple blog background, and if I've read "The Homeschooling Journey" by Susan & Michael Card. I changed the look of my blog on a whim because I was tired of the old one, but now I think it's a little blase. But as un-blase as life is around here, I think I might keep it! And yes, I read the book and loved it. What a great book on homeschooling! And I heart Michael Card.
Linda asked about running. Unless you count running after Addison when she's put another Lego in her mouth and bolted out of the room, I don't run right now. Breaking my foot put a huge damper on my enthusiasm, and the freezing temps lately don't help. But when I do run, I like to run 3-4 miles, 3-4 times per week. It keeps me sane, not to mention it helps make up for my cookie habit. But lately I've just stuck to the cookies, sans running.
Mom asked where I'd like to go on vacation, and for how long. Mom, anywhere that's not here would be a great vacation. Although if I had to put on a swimsuit right now and stand in the glare of the sun on a beach, I'd lie down and cry. (See above.) Why do you ask, are you offering to watch the hooligans for me (for, let's say, about a week?) Remember, we haven't vacationed alone since our honeymoon. Take pity on me! :)
And last, Jenny asked if Chris and I were going to blog anymore at "And I You." Nope. Chris decided that blogging wasn't his thing, and it's not much of a blog on marriage if only one of us writes, right? So feel free to delete it from Bloglines.
Well, that's it! I still need to answer questions about why we're trying to move, what I think of my big church, life as a pastor's wife, and a few other things, so if you're tired of hearing about me, skip reading til, say, Wednesday. :)
Happy Sunday, friends!
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Questions Answered: Children
You might want to grab a cup of coffee for this one--it's a marathon! (If you're completely in the dark about this, go here and then here first.)
The Children
Connie wants to know how we chose our children's names. Caiden's first name came from the name "Aiden," but we wanted him to have the same initials as his daddy, so we tacked a "C" on the front of it. We'd never heard the name before and thought we were very clever for inventing it. The next year, five other Cadens were dedicated. So much for originality! On the upside, I've still never seen it spelled the way we do. (Interestingly, I've seen that it means "spontaneous/exuberant." We nailed that one!) Grayson's name was next to another name in the baby name book I liked, but Chris didn't. We both saw the name Grayson and liked it right away, but it was in the running with two other names until I was about 8 months pregnant. It means "quiet one," which is perfect for Grayson. And Addison is named after Elisabeth Elliot's second husband, who died shortly after they married. I read an essay she wrote called "In a Hospital Waiting Room" and loved it tremendously, hence the name. (Ironically, it was one of the three we were considering for Grayson.), and her middle name is, of course, Elisabeth. My dear friend Erin told Elisabeth and her husband Lars that sometime last year, and they were both tickled to know somebody was named after both Addison and Elisabeth. They said that was a first, as far as they knew! Elisabeth even sent Addie a book, and she wrote a note for her in the front cover, and I hope Addie treasures it someday like I do!
Speaking of having children, Alicia wants to know what I wish I had known before having them. I was a middle school teacher before I had Caiden, and I wish I had known the fierceness of a mother's love, particularly for her son, back then. I would've understood the crazy moms I had to deal with! A mother's love can make you do some crazy things, if you feel like your child is being picked on/misunderstood, etc. I also would've liked to know that recovery from having your first child is The Pits, but it's temporary. I thought I was going to die. It would've also been helpful to know to keep the diaper over the baby's bottom while changing it, because a newborn has good aim, and that new bedding I bought just a year earlier was never the same.
Polly wants to know the biggest challenge of having children. Polly, I can honestly say that changes, sometimes daily! For a long time, it was the lack of sleep. And as I didn't have any friends with children, life as a student pastor's wife changed dramatically because I couldn't do most of the things I used to do with the students and with the other guys' wives and girlfriends. I missed out a lot, and I was terribly lonely. I was the biggest advocate for all of them getting married and having babies! And now there are so many children between us that we still can't get together, because it's insane! But good. :)
Now life is very challenging, because we have three children, which is a world different from one or even two. Fullheartandhands Mama asked about having the third child, and if it's as hard as she's heard. She mentioned "dying to self," and as much as I'd like to lie and say no, it's not much harder than having two, I can't. Some well-meaning person told me, when I was pregnant with my third, that if I thought having two was hard, then having three wouldn't be as difficult. HA! No, it wasn't terribly hard the first few months, despite going through a couple surgeries and trauma in general with Addie, but once she started to move, all went downhill. Good grief, it's hard! I can't keep up with the messes, the discipline, the need to eat, the need to wear clean clothes and clean diapers, and the allure of sticking things in outlets. I'm in WAY over my head.
However, and this is a big caveat, I had two things going against me: I had three children in 4 1/2 years, with the last two only 19 months apart. I had two babies in cribs, and still have two in diapers. That'll tax even the most laid-back of women. On top of that, I have two boys, and Addison is pretty active herself. So having three might not be so hard if you spread them out more. I have two other friends who've had their third child in the past year, and they heartily agree with me: It's hard, but it's worth it. I LOVE having three children and am sometimes tempted to have a fourth, so Addison could have a shot at having a sister. (Does that answer your question, Jenny?) But probably not.
Kiersten, a college student, asked if life will be as stressful for her once she's a wife and mother. Kiersten, even if you don't enjoy the stage of life you're in right now, it's preparing you for the next one. If you were to jump from being a single college student today to being a wife and mother tomorrow, you'd want to jump right back into your life! College, while it has many stresses of its own, doesn't compare to the lifelong pressures of growing a marriage and raising children. If you fail a test or a course, there's a second shot, in most cases. But if you fail in your marriage or with your children, the implications are life-long. So take what God is teaching you right now, about commitment and perseverance, and you will fare better later on. And yes, your experience babysitting will serve you well as a mother, particularly with babies, but it also can't compare to the real thing. Once you're a mother, you can't give the child back at the end of the evening! Fortunately, God will provide you with the skills necessary when your time comes! I think if you can deal well with the stress in your life right now, it will help you cope with the particular stresses of each stage of life, especially the ones that come when you're a new mother! Great question :)
Tara Lee said she sometimes feels inadequate to be her children's mother. Ooh, I'm so glad to hear somebody else say that! On some days, particularly when I'm sick or tired or overwhelmed, I think of all the responsibilities I have as a mother and want to run away! Think of it: feed them nutritious food, keep them clean and healthy, provide opportunities for growth and education and imagination, teach them to share and be responsible and not to burp at the table, read to them, sing to them, take care of them when they're sick, keep them from falling off monkey bars and bunk beds and trampolines, and on and on and on! And that's just the surface things. When I consider that I'm responsible for their childhood memories, what enters their minds and hearts at a young age, their viewpoint of different races, religions, people with special needs, people who look different physically than we do, and everything else a mature adult already knows, I'm bowed over. Being a mom is harder than I ever imagined! And I have so many faults and flaws that it's scary God has entrusted three children to me. What if I ruin them?
So here's what I do with all of that: I sit down, preferably at Chili's, once or twice a year and make goals for my kids. Having a plan makes me feel better. After that, I just go day to day, trying to make sure everybody's clean, fed, and happy at the end of the day, keeping in mind our overall goal in the back of my mind. I figure that if my kids have a healthy, happy, mostly laid-back mom, everything else, like my flaws and forgotten best-intentions, will carry less weight. Does that make sense? I realize that's not the most "spiritual" answer, Tara Lee, and I'd encourage you to look for verses in Scripture that point out the fact that we are "good enough" with God's grace. Those verses, combined with an overall plan for your family, and a lot of grace extended to yourself, should help!
All right, last one for today. (Are you still here?) Bella asked about our babysitter. I have been deeply blessed by Kristina, one of our former students in our church's student ministry. She started babysitting once a week at night for us when Caiden was little. Then we had Grayson, and she continued. By the time she graduated from high school, we'd had Addison, and Kristina committed to watching the kids on Mondays when I went to MomTime at Lisa Whelchel's house. Now we've moved our MomTimes to evenings, so Kristina still comes to watch the kids once a week while I run errands and eat lunch all by myself. In this area, a babysitter for more than one child can expect about $10 an hour, and I pay her for anywhere between two and four hours. It is expensive, but she's worth it. (But we don't have a housecleaning service, and my kids don't go to preschool, so I don't mind shelling out the money in exchange for an afternoon of reprieve once a week!) The kids don't watch TV while she's here--instead, she plays with them outside, colors and plays Play-doh, and makes cookies with them. They love her, and she loves them, and I am aware of what a great deal this is! I realize this is not something everyone can do, and that someone like Kristina is hard to find.
All right, that's all I can manage for one sitting. My legs are numb, the house is a wreck, and the coffee's cold. Time to get moving! (And if you're still here, kudos to you!!) I promise not to skip anybody's question, so if yours isn't here, hang on!
Speaking of having children, Alicia wants to know what I wish I had known before having them. I was a middle school teacher before I had Caiden, and I wish I had known the fierceness of a mother's love, particularly for her son, back then. I would've understood the crazy moms I had to deal with! A mother's love can make you do some crazy things, if you feel like your child is being picked on/misunderstood, etc. I also would've liked to know that recovery from having your first child is The Pits, but it's temporary. I thought I was going to die. It would've also been helpful to know to keep the diaper over the baby's bottom while changing it, because a newborn has good aim, and that new bedding I bought just a year earlier was never the same.
Polly wants to know the biggest challenge of having children. Polly, I can honestly say that changes, sometimes daily! For a long time, it was the lack of sleep. And as I didn't have any friends with children, life as a student pastor's wife changed dramatically because I couldn't do most of the things I used to do with the students and with the other guys' wives and girlfriends. I missed out a lot, and I was terribly lonely. I was the biggest advocate for all of them getting married and having babies! And now there are so many children between us that we still can't get together, because it's insane! But good. :)
Now life is very challenging, because we have three children, which is a world different from one or even two. Fullheartandhands Mama asked about having the third child, and if it's as hard as she's heard. She mentioned "dying to self," and as much as I'd like to lie and say no, it's not much harder than having two, I can't. Some well-meaning person told me, when I was pregnant with my third, that if I thought having two was hard, then having three wouldn't be as difficult. HA! No, it wasn't terribly hard the first few months, despite going through a couple surgeries and trauma in general with Addie, but once she started to move, all went downhill. Good grief, it's hard! I can't keep up with the messes, the discipline, the need to eat, the need to wear clean clothes and clean diapers, and the allure of sticking things in outlets. I'm in WAY over my head.
However, and this is a big caveat, I had two things going against me: I had three children in 4 1/2 years, with the last two only 19 months apart. I had two babies in cribs, and still have two in diapers. That'll tax even the most laid-back of women. On top of that, I have two boys, and Addison is pretty active herself. So having three might not be so hard if you spread them out more. I have two other friends who've had their third child in the past year, and they heartily agree with me: It's hard, but it's worth it. I LOVE having three children and am sometimes tempted to have a fourth, so Addison could have a shot at having a sister. (Does that answer your question, Jenny?) But probably not.
Kiersten, a college student, asked if life will be as stressful for her once she's a wife and mother. Kiersten, even if you don't enjoy the stage of life you're in right now, it's preparing you for the next one. If you were to jump from being a single college student today to being a wife and mother tomorrow, you'd want to jump right back into your life! College, while it has many stresses of its own, doesn't compare to the lifelong pressures of growing a marriage and raising children. If you fail a test or a course, there's a second shot, in most cases. But if you fail in your marriage or with your children, the implications are life-long. So take what God is teaching you right now, about commitment and perseverance, and you will fare better later on. And yes, your experience babysitting will serve you well as a mother, particularly with babies, but it also can't compare to the real thing. Once you're a mother, you can't give the child back at the end of the evening! Fortunately, God will provide you with the skills necessary when your time comes! I think if you can deal well with the stress in your life right now, it will help you cope with the particular stresses of each stage of life, especially the ones that come when you're a new mother! Great question :)
Tara Lee said she sometimes feels inadequate to be her children's mother. Ooh, I'm so glad to hear somebody else say that! On some days, particularly when I'm sick or tired or overwhelmed, I think of all the responsibilities I have as a mother and want to run away! Think of it: feed them nutritious food, keep them clean and healthy, provide opportunities for growth and education and imagination, teach them to share and be responsible and not to burp at the table, read to them, sing to them, take care of them when they're sick, keep them from falling off monkey bars and bunk beds and trampolines, and on and on and on! And that's just the surface things. When I consider that I'm responsible for their childhood memories, what enters their minds and hearts at a young age, their viewpoint of different races, religions, people with special needs, people who look different physically than we do, and everything else a mature adult already knows, I'm bowed over. Being a mom is harder than I ever imagined! And I have so many faults and flaws that it's scary God has entrusted three children to me. What if I ruin them?
So here's what I do with all of that: I sit down, preferably at Chili's, once or twice a year and make goals for my kids. Having a plan makes me feel better. After that, I just go day to day, trying to make sure everybody's clean, fed, and happy at the end of the day, keeping in mind our overall goal in the back of my mind. I figure that if my kids have a healthy, happy, mostly laid-back mom, everything else, like my flaws and forgotten best-intentions, will carry less weight. Does that make sense? I realize that's not the most "spiritual" answer, Tara Lee, and I'd encourage you to look for verses in Scripture that point out the fact that we are "good enough" with God's grace. Those verses, combined with an overall plan for your family, and a lot of grace extended to yourself, should help!
All right, last one for today. (Are you still here?) Bella asked about our babysitter. I have been deeply blessed by Kristina, one of our former students in our church's student ministry. She started babysitting once a week at night for us when Caiden was little. Then we had Grayson, and she continued. By the time she graduated from high school, we'd had Addison, and Kristina committed to watching the kids on Mondays when I went to MomTime at Lisa Whelchel's house. Now we've moved our MomTimes to evenings, so Kristina still comes to watch the kids once a week while I run errands and eat lunch all by myself. In this area, a babysitter for more than one child can expect about $10 an hour, and I pay her for anywhere between two and four hours. It is expensive, but she's worth it. (But we don't have a housecleaning service, and my kids don't go to preschool, so I don't mind shelling out the money in exchange for an afternoon of reprieve once a week!) The kids don't watch TV while she's here--instead, she plays with them outside, colors and plays Play-doh, and makes cookies with them. They love her, and she loves them, and I am aware of what a great deal this is! I realize this is not something everyone can do, and that someone like Kristina is hard to find.
All right, that's all I can manage for one sitting. My legs are numb, the house is a wreck, and the coffee's cold. Time to get moving! (And if you're still here, kudos to you!!) I promise not to skip anybody's question, so if yours isn't here, hang on!
Friday, January 18, 2008
Questions Answered, Part I
It's Friday morning, and I'm in the recliner with a mug of coffee and a handful of Girl Scout cookies. If there's a better time to answer a few questions, I can't imagine it. So here I go!
Beginning at the first question--
Mary C wants to know what emergency surgery Caiden had, and how I coped. Caiden had pyloric stenosis, which is when the stomach grows closed and can't allow food through. It's life-threatening, and when he was diagnosed at 5 weeks, he had surgery an hour later. It was pretty traumatizing for a first-time mom (and dad!), but we actually coped very well because finding an answer to all the projectile vomiting was a huge answer to prayer. He was out of the hospital the next day, good as new. If there's any benefit to living far from family once you have your own children, it's that you grow up quickly and gain skills to cope. You have to! I look back on Caiden's first year with much gratitude, because I think it helped prepare us for Addison's first year.
Tiffany K, Mandy R, and Kelly all asked about our homeschooling schedule. To combine, Gretchen Hanna asked why we chose to homeschool since we live near so many good school districts, and Polly asked how it's going. We chose to homeschool for a variety of reasons. I was a teacher before I had children, which influenced my choice, and we have not heard good things about the school Caiden would've gone to this year, which highly influenced Chris' choice. But by and large, it was reading "The Mission of Motherhood" by Sally Clarkson when Caiden was three that put the idea into my head. I read about all the blessings and benefits of keeping children at home, and after praying about it over almost three years, we felt led to do it. (Actually, it was this book that has gotten me the most excited about being a mother. I highly recommend it to all mothers, homeschooling or not.) One of my favorite things about homeschooling is that our schedule is very flexible, and we actually do lessons Sunday-Thursday, because Chris' day off is Friday.
This year has been very good, much to my surprise. I had read that the first year is usually hard or disappointing or full of uncertainties, but we've not had that experience. I researched for a long time before we started, and I chose a method that gives good direction but full flexibility. That probably helped a lot. In fact, my best piece of advice if you're considering homeschooling, is to plan, plan, plan! And then pray, pray, pray. And finally, be completely willing to throw out everything you've planned if it's not working. I used all of my Mondays throughout the summer to sit at Chili's or Barnes & Noble with a notebook and calendar to plan, and it has helped tremendously. In March I'll begin planning for next year.
Anyway, Caiden loves it and has no idea some people actually don't like school (But to be fair, Caiden loves everything about life and has no idea some people don't feel the same way. He's the most enthusiastic person I've ever met, which can drive you crazy at 7 a.m..), and it has been a blast to see him learn to read and speak some French. We all get a kick out of that! Even Grayson throws out a French phrase now and then at the dinner table, which gets him much applause.
We start mid-morning when the two littler ones are in roomtime with snacks and finish by lunch. Because it's all one-to-one, we finish very quickly. I've stuck to Charlotte Mason's methods entirely, but because there's not a "curriculum" per say for kindergarten, I've used my own resources and adapted them to her methods. Kindergarten is for us mostly about learning to read, add, etc. Next year will be our Year One (See Ambleside Online for more info if you're interested), and then we'll be following a booklist in addition to math, copywork, etc. One resource I've found particularly helpful for keeping track of our days is the online planner at Simply Charlotte Mason.
And I would be remiss not to mention one of the biggest helps of all: my friend Farrel is a few years ahead of me in homeschooling, and she also has two children right near Caiden's age, so she's my sounding board. We're using different methods, but we have similar goals and mindsets, so she has been a great help to me. We'll be going to Sally Clarkson's conference next month together, and I am so excited!
Jen asked how I choose a Bible study for daily devotions. I hope this answer doesn't disappoint, but I don't do a full-out Bible study very often. My track record at finishing is pitiful. And it's not the studies--I've tried everything!--it's me. I usually make it about 7 weeks in, then just fizzle out. When I've tried instead is to pick a short devotional book (My faves are ones by Emilie Barnes or Joni Earekson Tada) and read a passage from it while I also read my Bible, journal, and pray or think. (Speaking of journaling, Sherry asked me about it. Sherry, I think I love journaling because I love to write, and I love to keep record of our lives but hate scrapbooking. My advice is that if you don't like to journal, don't sweat it. Find something else you love for your quiet time. But if you're determined to do it, maybe journaling on the computer would work for you? I've never tried it, but it might be an option for you. I don't have a set method for journaling. Sometimes it's written to the Lord, sometimes it's just my thoughts put to paper, and sometimes it's lists and prayer requests and all sorts of odds and ends! And no, I don't worry about what somebody else would think if they read my journal. But they better run fast! I'd harbor serious notions of bodily harm to anybody who'd read my journal!!) Back to devotions: I also keep good works by Bonhoffer, Lewis, Oswald Chambers, and others in each bathroom and in my nightstand, for shorter snippets. Sometimes it's the words from a quick devotional mid-day that keep me from losing my mind. Right now I'm reading through Joni's "31 Days Toward Intimacy with God." I'll also use Elisabeth Elliot's books, which Mary B asked about. My favorite so far is "Keep a Quiet Heart." My copy is dog-eared. When I need the truth without candy-coating, Elisabeth's my go-to-girl!
And speaking of daily devotions, Tara asked how I get up early to do them and still stay up late? I guess this is a common question, and I'll answer the one about how I (appear to) get so much done tomorrow. I get up early sometimes. And sometimes I don't. On those days, I try to sneak in a quiet time during naptime or before bed, but it doesn't always happen. I was incredibly consistent in college, but once I had kids, it has been hard. And since I've been carrying the same cold/allergic outbreak for going on four weeks, it has been really hard to get up early. I give myself a lot of grace in this department. Some periods of life are better for getting up at 6 and having a quiet time! But no, I'm not a morning person/night owl. In fact, I'm neither. If I could sleep 9 hours every night, I'd do it. I get really grouchy if I'm missing sleep. Ask my kids.
Well, that's it for today. I'm trying to group similar questions together, so if it appears I've skipped your question, don't worry. See you tomorrow!
Beginning at the first question--
Mary C wants to know what emergency surgery Caiden had, and how I coped. Caiden had pyloric stenosis, which is when the stomach grows closed and can't allow food through. It's life-threatening, and when he was diagnosed at 5 weeks, he had surgery an hour later. It was pretty traumatizing for a first-time mom (and dad!), but we actually coped very well because finding an answer to all the projectile vomiting was a huge answer to prayer. He was out of the hospital the next day, good as new. If there's any benefit to living far from family once you have your own children, it's that you grow up quickly and gain skills to cope. You have to! I look back on Caiden's first year with much gratitude, because I think it helped prepare us for Addison's first year.
Tiffany K, Mandy R, and Kelly all asked about our homeschooling schedule. To combine, Gretchen Hanna asked why we chose to homeschool since we live near so many good school districts, and Polly asked how it's going. We chose to homeschool for a variety of reasons. I was a teacher before I had children, which influenced my choice, and we have not heard good things about the school Caiden would've gone to this year, which highly influenced Chris' choice. But by and large, it was reading "The Mission of Motherhood" by Sally Clarkson when Caiden was three that put the idea into my head. I read about all the blessings and benefits of keeping children at home, and after praying about it over almost three years, we felt led to do it. (Actually, it was this book that has gotten me the most excited about being a mother. I highly recommend it to all mothers, homeschooling or not.) One of my favorite things about homeschooling is that our schedule is very flexible, and we actually do lessons Sunday-Thursday, because Chris' day off is Friday.
This year has been very good, much to my surprise. I had read that the first year is usually hard or disappointing or full of uncertainties, but we've not had that experience. I researched for a long time before we started, and I chose a method that gives good direction but full flexibility. That probably helped a lot. In fact, my best piece of advice if you're considering homeschooling, is to plan, plan, plan! And then pray, pray, pray. And finally, be completely willing to throw out everything you've planned if it's not working. I used all of my Mondays throughout the summer to sit at Chili's or Barnes & Noble with a notebook and calendar to plan, and it has helped tremendously. In March I'll begin planning for next year.
Anyway, Caiden loves it and has no idea some people actually don't like school (But to be fair, Caiden loves everything about life and has no idea some people don't feel the same way. He's the most enthusiastic person I've ever met, which can drive you crazy at 7 a.m..), and it has been a blast to see him learn to read and speak some French. We all get a kick out of that! Even Grayson throws out a French phrase now and then at the dinner table, which gets him much applause.
We start mid-morning when the two littler ones are in roomtime with snacks and finish by lunch. Because it's all one-to-one, we finish very quickly. I've stuck to Charlotte Mason's methods entirely, but because there's not a "curriculum" per say for kindergarten, I've used my own resources and adapted them to her methods. Kindergarten is for us mostly about learning to read, add, etc. Next year will be our Year One (See Ambleside Online for more info if you're interested), and then we'll be following a booklist in addition to math, copywork, etc. One resource I've found particularly helpful for keeping track of our days is the online planner at Simply Charlotte Mason.
And I would be remiss not to mention one of the biggest helps of all: my friend Farrel is a few years ahead of me in homeschooling, and she also has two children right near Caiden's age, so she's my sounding board. We're using different methods, but we have similar goals and mindsets, so she has been a great help to me. We'll be going to Sally Clarkson's conference next month together, and I am so excited!
Jen asked how I choose a Bible study for daily devotions. I hope this answer doesn't disappoint, but I don't do a full-out Bible study very often. My track record at finishing is pitiful. And it's not the studies--I've tried everything!--it's me. I usually make it about 7 weeks in, then just fizzle out. When I've tried instead is to pick a short devotional book (My faves are ones by Emilie Barnes or Joni Earekson Tada) and read a passage from it while I also read my Bible, journal, and pray or think. (Speaking of journaling, Sherry asked me about it. Sherry, I think I love journaling because I love to write, and I love to keep record of our lives but hate scrapbooking. My advice is that if you don't like to journal, don't sweat it. Find something else you love for your quiet time. But if you're determined to do it, maybe journaling on the computer would work for you? I've never tried it, but it might be an option for you. I don't have a set method for journaling. Sometimes it's written to the Lord, sometimes it's just my thoughts put to paper, and sometimes it's lists and prayer requests and all sorts of odds and ends! And no, I don't worry about what somebody else would think if they read my journal. But they better run fast! I'd harbor serious notions of bodily harm to anybody who'd read my journal!!) Back to devotions: I also keep good works by Bonhoffer, Lewis, Oswald Chambers, and others in each bathroom and in my nightstand, for shorter snippets. Sometimes it's the words from a quick devotional mid-day that keep me from losing my mind. Right now I'm reading through Joni's "31 Days Toward Intimacy with God." I'll also use Elisabeth Elliot's books, which Mary B asked about. My favorite so far is "Keep a Quiet Heart." My copy is dog-eared. When I need the truth without candy-coating, Elisabeth's my go-to-girl!
And speaking of daily devotions, Tara asked how I get up early to do them and still stay up late? I guess this is a common question, and I'll answer the one about how I (appear to) get so much done tomorrow. I get up early sometimes. And sometimes I don't. On those days, I try to sneak in a quiet time during naptime or before bed, but it doesn't always happen. I was incredibly consistent in college, but once I had kids, it has been hard. And since I've been carrying the same cold/allergic outbreak for going on four weeks, it has been really hard to get up early. I give myself a lot of grace in this department. Some periods of life are better for getting up at 6 and having a quiet time! But no, I'm not a morning person/night owl. In fact, I'm neither. If I could sleep 9 hours every night, I'd do it. I get really grouchy if I'm missing sleep. Ask my kids.
Well, that's it for today. I'm trying to group similar questions together, so if it appears I've skipped your question, don't worry. See you tomorrow!
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Questions
Okay, I have to admit that when I first read my mom's post, I thought, "There's no way on earth I'd do that!" I figured she did just because her big sister did first, and everybody knows little sisters always do what their big sisters say. (My little sister is laughing her head off right now. I can hear it all the way in Pennsylvania.)
But I'm feeling brave this morning, after a couple cups of coffee, so I'm opening up my comments to you: Ask me anything you want, and I'll pick a couple of questions each day and answer them for you.
NOW--one caveat is that you have to play nice, and not ask me anything you wouldn't want asked of yourself. After all, I'm not crazy. :)
So go ahead, and ask. I'm feeling a little afraid, but I think this might be fun!
*This idea was dreamed up by Meredith at 7000 Feet
But I'm feeling brave this morning, after a couple cups of coffee, so I'm opening up my comments to you: Ask me anything you want, and I'll pick a couple of questions each day and answer them for you.
NOW--one caveat is that you have to play nice, and not ask me anything you wouldn't want asked of yourself. After all, I'm not crazy. :)
So go ahead, and ask. I'm feeling a little afraid, but I think this might be fun!
*This idea was dreamed up by Meredith at 7000 Feet
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Dressing Up My Baby Doll
You can see why I learned to knit and sew last year:
Felted Flower Child Hat, by Susan B. Anderson (Itty-Bitty Hats)
Elefante, by Susan B. Anderson (free download, see her site)
Adaptation of Britches & Bloomers (pants) and Simplicity #3656 (top), fabric at ReproDepot
Dotty Chicken, by Susan B. Anderson (Itty-Bitty Nursery)
Sweet Wee Jacket, by Amy Karol (Bend-the-Rules Sewing)
Felted Flower Child Hat, by Susan B. Anderson (Itty-Bitty Hats)
Elefante, by Susan B. Anderson (free download, see her site)
Adaptation of Britches & Bloomers (pants) and Simplicity #3656 (top), fabric at ReproDepot
Dotty Chicken, by Susan B. Anderson (Itty-Bitty Nursery)
Sweet Wee Jacket, by Amy Karol (Bend-the-Rules Sewing)
Saturday, January 12, 2008
The Fair Share
Well, I'd love to write this post from the Pinnacle of Health, but it's coming to you straight from Germdom. I've caught some rotten virus that's circulating in the area now, on top of the rotten allergies. Top that off with a new batch of swelling plus hives this time, and I'm not feeling very sunny. The allergist was more concerned about my swelling face than my allergies, so he sent me off for lab work, prescribed an Epipen so I can shoot myself in the leg if my throat swells, and told me to come back in two weeks. Then he'll stick me over and over to see what it is that I'm allergic to. I know how to have a good time.
On the upside, I've fallen in love with somebody new. Mucinex D is my airways' best friend now, and as much as I wanted a natural remedy to work, this has worked better than everything else combined. Except that I broke out in hives and my eye swelled shut in the night, so with my luck, I'm allergic to it.
I told my mom today that all of this is my sister Leslie's fault. For years she'd complain that everything always worked out for Chris and me. And she was right. We seemed to have it good all of the time. I think she jinxed me.
Right after I agreed with her, Caiden was born and we had a tough first year with him. Emergency surgery, hospitalization, multiple illnesses. I was the first of my siblings to have a baby, my parents lived 1200 miles away, and I didn't have a single friend who had children. It was rough.
Then he turned one, we moved, the dog got hit by a car and I lost all the keys to both the old and new houses, and the other dog turned neurotic--all in the same day, I think. Things like that should've clued me in that the tide had turned. I had a hard time getting pregnant with Grayson, Caiden turned into a naughty toddler and I was convinced he'd end up in jail (nothing like pregnancy hormones to turn a molehill into a mountain!), and then I had a baby who had acid reflux so badly he'd throw up half of every meal, day in and day out for 10 months. We contacted ECI because he wasn't even sitting up at 10 months, and then I found out I was pregnant (surprise!) Except my numbers were bad, and I spent a couple months terrified I'd miscarry. Add a killer case of poison ivy and no way to relieve it, because I was not only pregnant but still breastfeeding the other baby, and Leslie stopped telling me we had it made. Somehow I got the stomach virus 7 times in 6 months, on top of morning sickness that would not stop, we put our home on the market, and I gave up the notion of ever having it made again. And then, in an instant, life changed dramatically, and it hasn't been the same ever since.
So 2006 was tough, to say the least, and after weathering a newborn's open-heart surgery and pulling our home off the market, we ended the year with an episode of dog impaling (Leslie's dog, actually. Ironic, isn't it?). I told God that since the calendar year was over, and since it had been five years since our Series of Unfortunate Events had begun, I was officially over dealing with crises. I was ready for a break.
Somewhere in the heavens I should've heard laughter. 2007 was easier than 2006, but it still held a life-threatening bout of RSV for Addison, a broken foot and ensuing surgery for me, and the death of my grandmother. I knew better, on December 31st, to make any bargains with God this time.
See, the fact of it is that life is not "fair." Accidents and trauma and defeat are not spread evenly throughout the population, and some people seem to get far more than their share. You know somebody, I'm sure, who has been dealt more hardship than seems even possible, or maybe you're that somebody. And as hard as one person's challenges seem, there is always someone else whose story puts all others to shame. Sometimes I feel guilty, realizing how much worse life is for someone else, but the truth is that my hurts don't hurt any less. My fears for my children, or my weariness when dealing with sickness or tantrums or teething--those things don't pale in comparison, because this is my life. And sometimes just the daily hardships are heavy enough without adding everything else.
There have been times when I've wondered exactly how prayer is supposed to work. If God has ordained the events of my life, then does it really matter if I ask Him to find my keys, or heal my baby, or sell my house? Is it wrong to pray about something as insignificant as lost keys when others are facing death? And if He's going to do what He's going to do, what does it matter if I ask for something different?
My mom and I talked on the phone for over two hours this morning, about everything and nothing and all sorts in between. Nobody else on earth would be interested in our conversation. We talked about yarn, stitch patterns, retirement plans, potty training, homeschooling, decorating, Sacajawea--you name it, and we covered it. She didn't solve any of my problems; I was still itching with hives at the end of the two hours. I couldn't confirm for her whether she should buy the new chair or not; she was still undecided. Rather than plot or plan or solve, we just talked.
I wonder if God just wants me to talk to Him more. Not always seeking an answer or promise or solution, but just to talk to Him. Maybe He likes it when I ask Him to help me find my keys, because it implies that I know He cares about me, and because I acknowledge that He knows where my keys are and can help me find them. Maybe He likes it when I ask Him to heal my baby, give me direction, sell my house, make me stop itching. Not necessarily because He needs me to ask before He'll answer, but because He likes to hear my voice. He likes it when I talk to Him. But He'd probably like it if I'd just let Him get in a few words, too. I bet He'd like it if I went to Him just because I miss Him, like I missed my mom, and want to hear His voice. If prayer were more about communication than a to-do list, I might even find some of the answers I've been looking for, without even trying. It seems to me that might be the point of prayer--to continue a relationship, to make it more intimate and to nourish it.
There is a chance that from this moment forward, all will be smooth-going. My hives will heal, our house will sell, and I'll lose the same 10 pounds I've been fighting for a year and a half. But I doubt it. And honestly, I can't say that I want Him to fix every problem in my life. I can't say that I want to avert every trial and struggle. I learned more about Him--learned how much I need Him--during the months after Addison's birth. He teaches me so much during the times when I'm dismayed and out of options and run to Him in despair--not because He isn't willing to teach me in the easy times, but because my heart is raw and tender and ready when life stinks.
So life goes on, with bumps in the road that vary from pebbles to rocks to impassible boulders. I will get my share, and you will get yours, because somehow in His wisdom that's what He has decided, and it's not going to be any different until heaven. There the streets are paved with gold, no bumps allowed. It changes things, when I think about it. Maybe it is fair, after all. I live a life of less than a hundred years, occasionally dealing with hardship on varying levels, and then I transition to an eternity where there is no hardship, no tears, no hives. No, that's definitely not fair. It's way better than fair. I guess I don't want my "fair" share after all.
On the upside, I've fallen in love with somebody new. Mucinex D is my airways' best friend now, and as much as I wanted a natural remedy to work, this has worked better than everything else combined. Except that I broke out in hives and my eye swelled shut in the night, so with my luck, I'm allergic to it.
I told my mom today that all of this is my sister Leslie's fault. For years she'd complain that everything always worked out for Chris and me. And she was right. We seemed to have it good all of the time. I think she jinxed me.
Right after I agreed with her, Caiden was born and we had a tough first year with him. Emergency surgery, hospitalization, multiple illnesses. I was the first of my siblings to have a baby, my parents lived 1200 miles away, and I didn't have a single friend who had children. It was rough.
Then he turned one, we moved, the dog got hit by a car and I lost all the keys to both the old and new houses, and the other dog turned neurotic--all in the same day, I think. Things like that should've clued me in that the tide had turned. I had a hard time getting pregnant with Grayson, Caiden turned into a naughty toddler and I was convinced he'd end up in jail (nothing like pregnancy hormones to turn a molehill into a mountain!), and then I had a baby who had acid reflux so badly he'd throw up half of every meal, day in and day out for 10 months. We contacted ECI because he wasn't even sitting up at 10 months, and then I found out I was pregnant (surprise!) Except my numbers were bad, and I spent a couple months terrified I'd miscarry. Add a killer case of poison ivy and no way to relieve it, because I was not only pregnant but still breastfeeding the other baby, and Leslie stopped telling me we had it made. Somehow I got the stomach virus 7 times in 6 months, on top of morning sickness that would not stop, we put our home on the market, and I gave up the notion of ever having it made again. And then, in an instant, life changed dramatically, and it hasn't been the same ever since.
So 2006 was tough, to say the least, and after weathering a newborn's open-heart surgery and pulling our home off the market, we ended the year with an episode of dog impaling (Leslie's dog, actually. Ironic, isn't it?). I told God that since the calendar year was over, and since it had been five years since our Series of Unfortunate Events had begun, I was officially over dealing with crises. I was ready for a break.
Somewhere in the heavens I should've heard laughter. 2007 was easier than 2006, but it still held a life-threatening bout of RSV for Addison, a broken foot and ensuing surgery for me, and the death of my grandmother. I knew better, on December 31st, to make any bargains with God this time.
See, the fact of it is that life is not "fair." Accidents and trauma and defeat are not spread evenly throughout the population, and some people seem to get far more than their share. You know somebody, I'm sure, who has been dealt more hardship than seems even possible, or maybe you're that somebody. And as hard as one person's challenges seem, there is always someone else whose story puts all others to shame. Sometimes I feel guilty, realizing how much worse life is for someone else, but the truth is that my hurts don't hurt any less. My fears for my children, or my weariness when dealing with sickness or tantrums or teething--those things don't pale in comparison, because this is my life. And sometimes just the daily hardships are heavy enough without adding everything else.
There have been times when I've wondered exactly how prayer is supposed to work. If God has ordained the events of my life, then does it really matter if I ask Him to find my keys, or heal my baby, or sell my house? Is it wrong to pray about something as insignificant as lost keys when others are facing death? And if He's going to do what He's going to do, what does it matter if I ask for something different?
My mom and I talked on the phone for over two hours this morning, about everything and nothing and all sorts in between. Nobody else on earth would be interested in our conversation. We talked about yarn, stitch patterns, retirement plans, potty training, homeschooling, decorating, Sacajawea--you name it, and we covered it. She didn't solve any of my problems; I was still itching with hives at the end of the two hours. I couldn't confirm for her whether she should buy the new chair or not; she was still undecided. Rather than plot or plan or solve, we just talked.
I wonder if God just wants me to talk to Him more. Not always seeking an answer or promise or solution, but just to talk to Him. Maybe He likes it when I ask Him to help me find my keys, because it implies that I know He cares about me, and because I acknowledge that He knows where my keys are and can help me find them. Maybe He likes it when I ask Him to heal my baby, give me direction, sell my house, make me stop itching. Not necessarily because He needs me to ask before He'll answer, but because He likes to hear my voice. He likes it when I talk to Him. But He'd probably like it if I'd just let Him get in a few words, too. I bet He'd like it if I went to Him just because I miss Him, like I missed my mom, and want to hear His voice. If prayer were more about communication than a to-do list, I might even find some of the answers I've been looking for, without even trying. It seems to me that might be the point of prayer--to continue a relationship, to make it more intimate and to nourish it.
There is a chance that from this moment forward, all will be smooth-going. My hives will heal, our house will sell, and I'll lose the same 10 pounds I've been fighting for a year and a half. But I doubt it. And honestly, I can't say that I want Him to fix every problem in my life. I can't say that I want to avert every trial and struggle. I learned more about Him--learned how much I need Him--during the months after Addison's birth. He teaches me so much during the times when I'm dismayed and out of options and run to Him in despair--not because He isn't willing to teach me in the easy times, but because my heart is raw and tender and ready when life stinks.
So life goes on, with bumps in the road that vary from pebbles to rocks to impassible boulders. I will get my share, and you will get yours, because somehow in His wisdom that's what He has decided, and it's not going to be any different until heaven. There the streets are paved with gold, no bumps allowed. It changes things, when I think about it. Maybe it is fair, after all. I live a life of less than a hundred years, occasionally dealing with hardship on varying levels, and then I transition to an eternity where there is no hardship, no tears, no hives. No, that's definitely not fair. It's way better than fair. I guess I don't want my "fair" share after all.
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
The Tally
In the spirit of adventure, I've tried almost all of your suggestions to clear up my sinuses. Here's the tally:
1. Nose spray
2. Nasal rinse
3. Neti pot
4. Hot shower
5. Inhaling steam over the sink
6. VapoRub on the bottoms of my feet
7. Benadryl
8. Eucalyptus oil
9. Peppermint oil
10. Wellness Formula
11. Zyrtec
12. Sudafed
13. Various cold medicines
14. Eliminating dairy & sugar
15. Eating super-spicy foods
16. Sleeping with a humidifier
17. Vicks/warm compresses under the nose
18. Rest
(You can see I'm serious about this! Eliminating dairy and sugar are by far the most painful things I've tried so far :)
Here's what I haven't gotten to yet:
1. Nettle
2. Indian Tea
3. Bee Pollen
4. Olbas Oil
5. Gargling with salt water--I admit it, I'm scared.
So far, everything has combined to make life better. A few of you mentioned that my immune system has probably taken a hit, and I agree wholeheartedly, so I've been laying low, spending naptime either napping myself, or knitting in my bed while watching reruns of Law & Order. That's hands-down my favorite way to spend free time! (And I'm confessing this to all: I've watched the show for at least five years and didn't know until this week that Arthur Branch was played by Fred Thompson! And I was even a citizen of Tennessee for four years, while he was the governor and knew he was also an actor. Talk about clueless.)
But as much as things like the netipot and hot showers have helped, I definitely need a more permanent solution. I told Chris last night that with my luck, I'm allergic to down comforters, feather pillows, and the dog. I'm probably breathing in allergens all night long. On the other hand, if I am, I get to buy new bedding, and that's always fun! And the dog stays no matter what, so I'll probably be buying stock in Zyrtec.
Thank you, everyone who chimed in with tips! I do have to admit, I was a little disappointed to wake up this morning with a stuffier nose than ever, after trying the VapoRub on my feet! I was totally believing it would help. But my feet do smell really nice :) I think that the best thing I can do--we all can do--would be to build up the immune system and take better care of myself overall during cold and flu season. As you moms out there know, life is not good when Mom is sick! I've also bought a new book, "Smart Medicine for a Healther Child," by a group of authors whose credentials include a medical doctor, a natural doctor, a nurse, a nurse practitioner, and some other acronyms I don't understand. It says it's "A practical A-to-Z reference to natural and conventional treatments for infants and children." That's a good thing to add to the family bookshelf! I used to have a book I loved, called "Healthy Child Whole Child," but I can't find it. (So if you borrowed it, can I have it back?) Anyway, I love it when my doctor suggests something other than the standard antibiotic for an ear infection, and this book is full of the wisdom our great-grandmothers knew.
So if you've been bitten by the cold/flu/allergies/strep throat or whatever bug, like most of America in the winter, you can check out the comments on my last post for tons of great tips! And the best advice of all is to get more rest, eat more fruits & veggies and fewer processed foods, take some time each day to do something relaxing, and to get at least a little bit of exercise each day! And on top of that, I feel better when I spend some time praying and reading my Bible--because when I'm emotionally and spiritually healthy, I can handle things like congestion (or an unbalanced budget, grouchy toddlers, a long to-do list, or whatever!) a lot better.
So there you have it: my tip for good health. And if the allergist tells me tomorrow that I'm allergic to my dog, or my kids, or, heaven forbid, Diet Coke, I'll let you know!
Thanks again for helping out a girl with a stuffy nose :)
1. Nose spray
2. Nasal rinse
3. Neti pot
4. Hot shower
5. Inhaling steam over the sink
6. VapoRub on the bottoms of my feet
7. Benadryl
8. Eucalyptus oil
9. Peppermint oil
10. Wellness Formula
11. Zyrtec
12. Sudafed
13. Various cold medicines
14. Eliminating dairy & sugar
15. Eating super-spicy foods
16. Sleeping with a humidifier
17. Vicks/warm compresses under the nose
18. Rest
(You can see I'm serious about this! Eliminating dairy and sugar are by far the most painful things I've tried so far :)
Here's what I haven't gotten to yet:
1. Nettle
2. Indian Tea
3. Bee Pollen
4. Olbas Oil
5. Gargling with salt water--I admit it, I'm scared.
So far, everything has combined to make life better. A few of you mentioned that my immune system has probably taken a hit, and I agree wholeheartedly, so I've been laying low, spending naptime either napping myself, or knitting in my bed while watching reruns of Law & Order. That's hands-down my favorite way to spend free time! (And I'm confessing this to all: I've watched the show for at least five years and didn't know until this week that Arthur Branch was played by Fred Thompson! And I was even a citizen of Tennessee for four years, while he was the governor and knew he was also an actor. Talk about clueless.)
But as much as things like the netipot and hot showers have helped, I definitely need a more permanent solution. I told Chris last night that with my luck, I'm allergic to down comforters, feather pillows, and the dog. I'm probably breathing in allergens all night long. On the other hand, if I am, I get to buy new bedding, and that's always fun! And the dog stays no matter what, so I'll probably be buying stock in Zyrtec.
Thank you, everyone who chimed in with tips! I do have to admit, I was a little disappointed to wake up this morning with a stuffier nose than ever, after trying the VapoRub on my feet! I was totally believing it would help. But my feet do smell really nice :) I think that the best thing I can do--we all can do--would be to build up the immune system and take better care of myself overall during cold and flu season. As you moms out there know, life is not good when Mom is sick! I've also bought a new book, "Smart Medicine for a Healther Child," by a group of authors whose credentials include a medical doctor, a natural doctor, a nurse, a nurse practitioner, and some other acronyms I don't understand. It says it's "A practical A-to-Z reference to natural and conventional treatments for infants and children." That's a good thing to add to the family bookshelf! I used to have a book I loved, called "Healthy Child Whole Child," but I can't find it. (So if you borrowed it, can I have it back?) Anyway, I love it when my doctor suggests something other than the standard antibiotic for an ear infection, and this book is full of the wisdom our great-grandmothers knew.
So if you've been bitten by the cold/flu/allergies/strep throat or whatever bug, like most of America in the winter, you can check out the comments on my last post for tons of great tips! And the best advice of all is to get more rest, eat more fruits & veggies and fewer processed foods, take some time each day to do something relaxing, and to get at least a little bit of exercise each day! And on top of that, I feel better when I spend some time praying and reading my Bible--because when I'm emotionally and spiritually healthy, I can handle things like congestion (or an unbalanced budget, grouchy toddlers, a long to-do list, or whatever!) a lot better.
So there you have it: my tip for good health. And if the allergist tells me tomorrow that I'm allergic to my dog, or my kids, or, heaven forbid, Diet Coke, I'll let you know!
Thanks again for helping out a girl with a stuffy nose :)
Monday, January 07, 2008
Home Remedies
Adam and Eve probably didn't have allergies in the Garden of Eden.
That thought came to me tonight, as I was standing over the sink with my head under a towel, breathing in steam and mentally cursing dander, pollen, and whatever else it is that's tormenting me. Remember my lip? It keeps coming back, punching harder each time, and when Chris walked in the door last night he stared at my lip and breathed out a "Wow." If it impresses him, you know it's amazing. He's not easily impressed. But it was swollen four times its natural size, and that is pretty impressive. I looked like Angelina Jolie-meets-lip- injections.
So when I woke up this morning with one eye swollen shut in the corner, I decided to circle the wagons and call in the troops and whatever other cliches apply. I called multiple doctors, bargaining for the earliest appointment I could get, being sure to mention swollen lips, swollen eyes, difficulty breathing through my nose, etc. And sure enough, I scored! An appointment this afternoon.
Even the doctor was impressed when I told him my symptoms, a genuine first for me. Wait, I take that back: every person, including the surgeon, who saw my broken toe, was highly impressed. But because freakishly-broken bones tend to wow people, I can't really count it. Anyway, back to my point: the doctor agreed that something is wrong, and that something should be done. So the allergist is now penciled down in the calendar, and until then I'm trying every home remedy in the book to bring down the swelling in my eye (blocked duct, the doctor says) and to keep my nose open enough that I can breathe at least a little. Last night, when I realized not a pinprick of air could squeeze through, I panicked just a little. I had visions of suffocating in my own bed, next to my sleeping husband, and when I finally did fall asleep, it was only to wake with a sore throat and cracked lips from all the mouth breathing. And my husband says I snored "like a man." Great. Waking up with that, only to find Popeye staring at me in the mirror, with an injection-gone-wrong lip to boot, and I am counting my lucky stars that I'm not the least bit famous. A face like this would make the paparazzi go wild.
So, while I'm waiting to see the allergist (who will hopefully fix me, please, please, please!), I'm interested in your best home remedies for nasal congestion, blocked sinus passages/tear ducts, and allergies in general. I have a healthy respect for natural remedies, and besides, at this point, I'm desperate.
Lay them on me--and if anything works, I'll be sure to shout it from the (bloggy) rooftops! Besides, now everybody in the house is sick with either allergies, a cold, or bronchiolitis (Admit it--you want to be me, don't you? We are having so much fun around here!), so I'm sure we can use every tip you've got.
That thought came to me tonight, as I was standing over the sink with my head under a towel, breathing in steam and mentally cursing dander, pollen, and whatever else it is that's tormenting me. Remember my lip? It keeps coming back, punching harder each time, and when Chris walked in the door last night he stared at my lip and breathed out a "Wow." If it impresses him, you know it's amazing. He's not easily impressed. But it was swollen four times its natural size, and that is pretty impressive. I looked like Angelina Jolie-meets-lip- injections.
So when I woke up this morning with one eye swollen shut in the corner, I decided to circle the wagons and call in the troops and whatever other cliches apply. I called multiple doctors, bargaining for the earliest appointment I could get, being sure to mention swollen lips, swollen eyes, difficulty breathing through my nose, etc. And sure enough, I scored! An appointment this afternoon.
Even the doctor was impressed when I told him my symptoms, a genuine first for me. Wait, I take that back: every person, including the surgeon, who saw my broken toe, was highly impressed. But because freakishly-broken bones tend to wow people, I can't really count it. Anyway, back to my point: the doctor agreed that something is wrong, and that something should be done. So the allergist is now penciled down in the calendar, and until then I'm trying every home remedy in the book to bring down the swelling in my eye (blocked duct, the doctor says) and to keep my nose open enough that I can breathe at least a little. Last night, when I realized not a pinprick of air could squeeze through, I panicked just a little. I had visions of suffocating in my own bed, next to my sleeping husband, and when I finally did fall asleep, it was only to wake with a sore throat and cracked lips from all the mouth breathing. And my husband says I snored "like a man." Great. Waking up with that, only to find Popeye staring at me in the mirror, with an injection-gone-wrong lip to boot, and I am counting my lucky stars that I'm not the least bit famous. A face like this would make the paparazzi go wild.
So, while I'm waiting to see the allergist (who will hopefully fix me, please, please, please!), I'm interested in your best home remedies for nasal congestion, blocked sinus passages/tear ducts, and allergies in general. I have a healthy respect for natural remedies, and besides, at this point, I'm desperate.
Lay them on me--and if anything works, I'll be sure to shout it from the (bloggy) rooftops! Besides, now everybody in the house is sick with either allergies, a cold, or bronchiolitis (Admit it--you want to be me, don't you? We are having so much fun around here!), so I'm sure we can use every tip you've got.
Friday, January 04, 2008
And Then . . .
:( The laundry kept on coming, and the dirty piles have eclipsed the clean.
:( And the dirt kept on coming, eclipsing the clean house, too. Now it's not so clean. I'm trying not to look at my baseboards. Maybe if I don't see them, they'll clean themselves.
:( Three of the five of us are sick, involving a rush to the doctor's office, breathing treatments, and brand new medical bills for the brand new year.
:( I have no idea what's for dinner. And dinner is in two hours.
On a good note, just like the tides go in and out, so does life--maybe tomorrow I'll be looking at a clean house, fresh laundry, some time to myself, and healthier people. Maybe :) Either way, this is the stuff of life, and it's the dirty laundry that makes me appreciate the clean so much. So off I go, to attempt to rectify the situation. I hope your weekend is a happy (and clean) one!
:( And the dirt kept on coming, eclipsing the clean house, too. Now it's not so clean. I'm trying not to look at my baseboards. Maybe if I don't see them, they'll clean themselves.
:( Three of the five of us are sick, involving a rush to the doctor's office, breathing treatments, and brand new medical bills for the brand new year.
:( I have no idea what's for dinner. And dinner is in two hours.
On a good note, just like the tides go in and out, so does life--maybe tomorrow I'll be looking at a clean house, fresh laundry, some time to myself, and healthier people. Maybe :) Either way, this is the stuff of life, and it's the dirty laundry that makes me appreciate the clean so much. So off I go, to attempt to rectify the situation. I hope your weekend is a happy (and clean) one!
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
A Happy Start
We've had a happy start to the new year:
:) A clean house, with
:) Loads of fresh laundry, including
:) "Baby," "Blankie," and "Blanket," my children's much-loved lovies. And then
:) A quiet dinner at home, followed by
:) A little bit of sewing at the kitchen table while
:) Listening to the football bowl game in the next room. And now I'm
:) Off to a long bath complete with a good book.
It doesn't get much better than that.
:) A clean house, with
:) Loads of fresh laundry, including
:) "Baby," "Blankie," and "Blanket," my children's much-loved lovies. And then
:) A quiet dinner at home, followed by
:) A little bit of sewing at the kitchen table while
:) Listening to the football bowl game in the next room. And now I'm
:) Off to a long bath complete with a good book.
It doesn't get much better than that.
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