Blurbs....

David was going out of town for meetings, and was going to be gone one night. Ruby asked him if he was going to eat bagels at the hotel. She then asked him not to. Because if he did, it would "break my heart" because she wouldn't have any bagels to eat. Oh, my dear, sweet, dramatic Ruby. =)

David asked the kids to be big helpers for Mommy while he was gone to his meetings. This did not appear to happen until we were outside, and I was cleaning up the yard of stuff. (How does "stuff" pop up all over my yard, anyways? =P) Anyways, on this trip, I was carrying one of the kid's bikes out to the barn. Ruby then remembered that she had told Daddy she would help me while he was gone, so she proceeded to grab onto the bike and "help" (aka pull down on the bike, making it more heavy, and pull back, making me need to walk slower) me. It's the thought that counts, right? =)

According to my notes, I mentioned something about needing/wanting/something arms that could reach the fridge from an undocumented location (so therefore I don't remember it). Isaac said that I might need "a special machine" to help me with this. That boy and his machines.

I love how Isaac says "large". You know, that really big one over there. It's very large. Things like that. He's just a cutie. =) I also love how he gets his sister's attention, "Hey, gowos" instead of "Hey, girls!" Now to correct that speech problem......

Isaac got his wish and his sisters came out to the top of the playhouse to blow bubbles with him. First it was Jadelyn. Then, Ruby joined them when she was done with her trips around the garden, and after the girls came inside, Alpine the cat joined Isaac. He was well loved that day! =)

David had to bring the nursing home's minibus to the meetings, so he drove it home after the meetings were over. The kids all got to go for a ride, and boy, were they excited! =) Sometime after, we were having a lunchtime conversation. Isaac wants to know when he can go to school (presumably so he can ride a bus). We then talked about how we were going to homeschool because some of the things that are taught in public school are not things that we want them learning right now. We talked about church school and how there aren't any around here. We talked about how Grandpa was a teacher at a church school and how that church school closed down soon after Grandpa went on disability. We talked about how Aunt Tracy worked really hard to try to get that school re-opened for years, as she wanted her kids to go there. We talked about how it takes a LOT of money to re-open the school. The kids were wondering if it would take so much money that if we had it here, it would fill our house. Or at least our living room (I think). Then, Ruby had a solution. We will just go to our bank and ask them for all our money, which we could then give to Aunt Tracy to re-open the school. I had to educate Ruby that we didn't have enough, and how banks only give you the amount of money that you had in the bank. So, resourceful Ruby came up with another idea - we will just go to our bank, then another bank, then another bank, then another bank until we had enough money. Somehow I don't think she completely caught the gist of my "bank education". ;)

Ruby asked Isaac and Jadelyn to not "distract" her with toys on the day that she has to get her cast/have surgery. Because she is going to walk around and walk around, since she won't be able to with the cast on. I wish we could have it over, already. The "anticipation" (to put it positively) is difficult. Quick update: second-opinion-doctor pretty much agreed with the first doctor as to the plan of care. So, we're waiting on the CMT blood test, and if Ruby has CMT, surgery it will be. If not, casting it will be. Results are supposed to be back on the 22nd of December, but I'm hoping and praying for an earlier date. I'm worn out from waiting. =P

Overheard Ruby telling Isaac that she would help him open a container for the ornaments or Christmas lights or something because it was hard for Isaac, and Ruby is older. Oh, being one minute older than Isaac is something that Ruby will NEVER let Isaac forget! =P

Jadelyn drew a yellow-banana-shaped oval and later told me that it was a "banana!" I was impressed. She then pointed to a round green circle that she had drawn and told me it was an "apple". I was getting really impressed. Until she pointed to another green circle and told me it was a "banana!" Rats. =P

Ruby was helping Jadelyn put crayons away when she excitedly said, "Mom, look what we did! We alternated them!" Then, "there,you have alternated crayons, Jadelyn." I love Ruby's organization (except the fact that she hides things all over the house. And sometimes I need those things. And Ruby sometimes forgets where she hid them. =P) and her big-word-usage. =)

Ruby was being the "Mom" for Isaac, and "baby" Isaac just wasn't settling down to sleep like Ruby thought he should. Which prompted this outburst, "I have to stay up late when you keep messing around." Oh, Ruby...you have no idea....=)

I looked out the window last Sunday to see the sweetest thing EVER. Walking from the barn to the house were my three kiddos. Isaac holding Jadelyn's hand, and Ruby holding Jadelyn's other hand. Then, when crazy Hickory would charge at them, Ruby and Isaac would circle around Jadelyn to protect her from having the dog jump on her. Seriously SO SWEET! I love moments like that. Hickory kept pestering them, so I had to go save them. My sweet little heroes! =) Ruby also informed me that while we were at Noah's birthday party, Noah's Daddy was acting like a lion (or Ruby was pretending he was a lion. Or something. I need to not get this far behind in blogging. =P), and Ruby was protecting other kids. Ruby and her no-fear. Except of this surgery/cast/blood-draw business. =P

Ruby had been very excited about Jadelyn's upcoming 1/2 birthday. And she had great plans. To sing "Happy 1/2 birthday to you! Happy 1/2 birthday to you! Happy 1/2 birthday, dear Jadelyn! Happy 1/2 birthday to you!" She forgot that on the actual day, but on the big day we went to Wal-Mart. I had completely forgotten that it was Jadelyn's half birthday. Until Ruby informed the lady behind us in the check-out lane that Jadelyn turned "2 1/2 today!" Ruby, my walking calendar. =) Today, she said, "today is....wait.....don't tell me.....1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11....December 11th!" That girl.

The other day, Ruby came out of her room. Jadelyn was lying on Ruby's new bean bag (for positioning her comfortably when she's casted). Instead of the usual, "Hi, Ruby!" Jadelyn called out, "Hey, sister! I on your Pack 'n Play!" Ruby, of course, quickly informed her that it is NOT a Pack 'n Play, but a beanbag. =P

Jadelyn likes to say "7 clock" when asked when something will happen. If Ruby and Isaac ask her when they can have the toy she is playing with, she will answer, "7 clock", and Ruby and Isaac will then start quickly counting from 1 - 7, inform Jadelyn that it's now 7 o'clock, and then ask for the toy. Well, Jadelyn doesn't always fall for that now. She also answers "7 clock" when asked "why" or maybe even "where" questions. Not helpful to get a response of "7 clock" to those types of questions. Just so you know.

The other day, after Jadelyn screamed (for the millionth and second - or maybe more =P) time in her life, Isaac asked, "why does she always scream?" Ruby piped in, "she's saying, "Mommy, may I have a consequence, please?"" Ha!

Today, I asked Jadelyn what her name was. "Jadelyn", she responded. (Not "Nini! =O) Then, I asked what her middle name was...pause...."Jadelyn", she responded. So I then asked her what her last name was...."hmmmmmm..................Stinky Poo!" Oh, dear. Guess I should be more careful with my nicknames. =O

Tomorrow is Ruby and Isaac's 5th birthday. I simply cannot believe it. 5 just seems so....OLD. =O It was a little sad for me saying goodnight tonight to my 4 year-olds for the last time. How does time pass so quickly?

Grandma...

Today at 12:05pm, my dear Grandma fell asleep in Jesus. Ruby, in particular, has had a lot of questions about this. "Is Grandma still in her bed?" "Are her eyes closed?" "Does she know she's dead?" All questions have been answered to the best of my ability. Ruby gave me a snippet of childlike wisdom (not verbatim, here, 'cause you know, I have memory issues). "Jesus said it was okay for Grandma to die, and that's why she died even though we prayed for her." Yes, even when it's hard, I will trust that Jesus knows what is best. The next thing my Grandma knows, she will be seeing Jesus' face when He comes to call her home. And I'm still incredibly thankful that I was so fortunate and blessed to have that sweet, dear, strong, patient, amazing lady as my Grandma. I love you, Grandma. Thanks for being you.

Notables....

Last night Ruby told me that if I had held her when she got her blood drawn she probably would not have cried. For you see, she wanted David to hold her this time to try to show him how brave she could be. Since he was not in the room at the time of her last (tearless) blood draw. Anyways, I asked her why she thought she wouldn't have cried if I had been the one holding her. She informed me it's because I have a "softer face". Yes. This "softer face" is also the reason that she is planning on calling for Mommy in the middle of the night if she needs assistance when she has her cast on. Doggone "soft" face, you're gonna cost me some sleep! =P

I love how Ruby likes to throw around words. The other day, she motioned for Jadelyn to come stand next to her to see "how tall you are related to me". And today, Jadelyn was doing something that Ruby didn't like, which led to the verbal outburst of, "you're disturbing me!"

Today at lunch we were discussing blood draws (again) and how Ruby has possibly had more blood drawn in her two times of getting it taken than I have in the however-many-times-I've-had-to-have-my-blood-drawn. I now have to have it drawn every three months due to a thyroid issue. Ruby was telling me how I would have to take medicine every day until I die, but I won't have to take it anymore when Jesus comes back and "you wake up from your deadness". Then Isaac piped in, "Jesus will probably throw it (thyroid problem, I'm presuming?) in the river." And then Ruby was musing about how we probably won't have to poop and pee in heaven. Interesting thought processes these kids possess.

Today, Isaac was absolutely DYING to get outside. I was unavailable to go outside as we've been gone from home for the past 3 days and I'm drowning in stuff to do. So, he got decked out in his hat (with assistance since it ties and all), jacket, mittens, and rain boots. Then he got bubbles out of the garage and THEN perched atop the playhouse blowing bubbles contentedly. I love that kid. He didn't even notice that I was out taking pictures of him. He was just that content in his chosen activity. =) After a while, he came inside, DYING for Ruby to come see his big bubbles. But alas, she was a stinker and would not go. =P


And now, just for fun, a picture of the kids with Grandma when we were down visiting earlier this month. I love that lady. She is so strong - still hanging in there, though she continues to deteriorate. What an amazing Grandma I have been blessed with.

Ruby's situation updated AGAIN....

We had a "good" day as far as Ruby's hip situation goes. Had a visit with Dr. Walker, the orthopedic surgeon. She seems to get where we're coming with as far as our concerns about CMT and casting now. I had sent up some research that I had found, and it seems that she had read over it. The plan is now that if Ruby's test comes back positive for CMT, we will do surgery on one hip, followed by 6 weeks in a cast, followed by surgery for the other hip, followed by 6 more weeks in a cast. If there is NO CMT, then casting will continue as planned. Both Dr. Walker and the neurologist have said that it's unusual for a 4 year-old to show signs of CMT and be diagnosed, but hello - there's a family history, she has low muscle tone, lacks reflexes, and has an odd walking/running gait. Unusual to display symptoms this young? Perhaps. Possible? Yes. =P Anyways, off that rant...at least they're willing to listen and look into it. Dr. Walker also showed us the x-rays and explained some to us. The angle of Ruby's acetabulum (which I think is the hip socket bone) should be around 24% in a one year old and about 11% in an adult. Ruby's is steep at 55%...which could explain how her hips can slide out. If they do surgery, they will cut some of this bone, bend it down, and fill in the gap with a bone from a cadaver. If she's in the cast, the hope is that the bone will grow out and down some. If they do surgery, they will tighten the ligaments. If they do the casting, that is supposed to tighten the ligaments on it's own. Either way, the ligaments could stretch back out and then we're stuck. If I understand correctly, they are more likely to stretch out if there is an underlying problem leading to the subluxation (CMT in our case).

So, after we were done at Shriner's, we headed to the neurologist's office to see if we could get Ruby's blood drawn today for the CMT test. At first they said no, and we left, but on our way up the stairs, we were chased down by Dr. Farzam (who we were told was not in the clinic today...where did he come from?) who said he would get things straightened out for us. So we waited. While we were waiting, a quartet came and started singing Christmas Carols. Ruby went with David and requested that they sing Silent night, which they did. She stood by and sang some with them. Then, off to the lab we went. Today she had 9 vials of blood drawn. At first, it looked like there was only going to be 2, but then the amount grew. There seemed to be some confusion about the test and where to send it and what to draw, so...well, David will be following up on it. We hope that it gets figured out.

We have no appointment scheduled for surgery or casting, as we don't know when we will get the results of the test back. So, we have our second opinion appointment on the 9th, and then we're just waiting on the test results.

So, it was a "good" (meaning productive) day. We spent Sunday and Monday at the church working on the mural that refuses to be finished and then today we left around 7am and got home around 4pm, so I am looking forward to being home tomorrow. Minus the fact that David is going out of town tomorrow and will be gone 'til Thursday evening. =P Such is life, 'eh?

Oh, yeah. Ruby had some questions for the doctor today. 1. "How will I go potty?" (bed pan) 2. "Will you be gentle putting my cast on?" (yes =D) and 3. "How old are you?" (we didn't remind Ruby of this question at the appointment today. ;) After we left, I asked Ruby if she got all her questions answered. She said "no" because she didn't learn how old Dr. Walker was. Crazy gal. =D)

And that is that.

Notes....

On Thanksgiving, I believe, Ruby asked Jadelyn if Ruby could kneel on Ruby's pillow (because she had shared it with Jadelyn) with Jadelyn for prayer time. (How's THAT for a sentence? =O) Jadelyn responded, "yes, you may". Ruby: "thank you for sharing". Jadelyn: "You're welcome." Awww. =) Jadelyn has been saying "you're welcome" very consistently now at the proper times. I love it.

One morning, we were discussing if you can really know what people are doing when you can't see them. Or something. I asked how we knew that Daddy really went to work every day and that he wasn't just spending the day at Wal-Mart or something. Ruby responded, because "Daddy doesn't mess around". =) Thanks for working for us, Daddy-o! =)

Today, we were at the church for the second day in a row, working on painting the wall mural that refuses to be completed. =P While I was painting, Ruby was acting like a baby and asked Jadelyn for something. Jadelyn informed that she would not give it to Ruby because "I love you". Ruby reasoned that if Jadelyn loved her, she would get it for her. Jadelyn then said, "I love you because I love you." Good reasoning, little Lynnie! =) The kids really did very well for "being on their own" as I worked. Thanks, kiddie-o-kies!

We had to reschedule Ruby's appointment with Dr. Walker to discuss our concerns, since David couldn't make the previously scheduled one, so we're headed in tomorrow morning for an 8:30am appointment. Hope we get some clarity. Also, we're supposed to find out then when her casting is scheduled for.

Thankful....

For worship on Thanksgiving night, we shared what we were thankful for.

Isaac was thankful for fire. Because it keeps him warm and it's pretty to watch. Later, he was thankful for Mommy, that I let him help make Thanksgiving food, and that I helped him when he slid off the couch. Then he got shy and hid his face. Cute little fella. I'm sure thankful for him, too.

Jadelyn was thankful for Ruby. Awww.

Ruby was thankful that she is not in a cast right now. True that.

Ruby's Hips...again

Well, talked to Ruby's care coordinator yesterday afternoon for quite some time. She told me Dr. Walker's responses to our questions. David and I aren't quite convinced that they are good answers. She is still recommending the 6 months in a half-body cast. So. We now have an appointment to discuss our concerns with Dr. Walker on Dec. 1. Casting is scheduled to take place sometime before Christmas (we don't have the specific date yet). I called and set up a second-opinion appointment with a orthopedic surgeon from Cincinnati Children's Hospital for Dec. 9. Hopefully they can get their recommendation to us before the casting date so that we will know what they think, too. Things are finally starting to move, and for that I am thankful. Please pray that things move in the RIGHT direction.

Hide 'n Seek

Highlights of tonight's Hide 'n Seek game?

-Jadelyn cheering and laughing wildly when she "found" me sitting on the couch. Until I reminded her that Isaac was the one hiding. Ooops! ;)

- Hearing David gasp in fright when he found me in our closet. Followed a little later by hearing him mutter something about needing a nitroglycerin pill. Ha!

- Finding out that I can no longer fit under the beds that I had as a child so easily. I slithered under, tried to roll onto my side, and lifted up the bed up a bit in the process. Then, I was stuck in an awkward position with my left arm stuck out from under my body. Good thing Ruby found me quickly and that my knight-in-shining-armor (that'd be Isaac =D) moved the bins away from in front of me so I could get out. Thanks, Buddy! =)

Bits and Pieces....

David came home on Friday and told the kids that Aunt Debi told him that he should take hot and cold showers to get well. Ruby commented that then there would be a "tornado in your shower." Ha!

On Friday night, I was playing "Egypt to Canaan" with the kids for the first time. Jadelyn lost interest quickly. Ruby and Isaac often required having the Bible verse with the answer in it read to them before they could get the answer. Sometimes several times. With some emphasis on the answer courtesy of Mommy. Guess we'd better work on those listening skills. Anyways, Isaac got the question asking how many Egyptians successfully followed the Israelites across the Red Sea. Isaac: "4? 5? 6?" Oh, boy...;)

Isaac has decided on yet another machine that he will need when he grows up and has his 11 children. A machine to wash baby washcloths fast. For he will use a LOT of them - one for each kid at mealtime, like we do...only he will have a LOT more kids. =) So, this machine will take the washcloth down and then "shoot it out" (I believe that was the term) in just a minute. Speedy machine. Wonder where I could find one of 'em?

Ruby thinks that maybe she will be a "teeth doctor" when she grows up. But probably not because she is going to have kids when she grows up.

We were visiting Tom and Tina on Friday, and they presented each kiddo with their very own Fruit Loop bowl. They said that they had two more for their "other grandkids" (those being the biological ones ;D). We have been so very blessed with neighbors that have "adopted" our kids as their grandkids. The love is mutual, I can assure you. ;)

At lunch on Friday, the kids were being crazy, saying that they had many more grapes than they really had. This went on and on and on and on and on....and then I, standing near the stove with a big spoon in my hand, turned toward the table and simply said, "bonk", gesturing with the spoon like I was bonking them over the head. All three kids erupted into giggles. Man, I don't remember the last time I was that hilarious. =)

Isaac was telling me an angel story the other day. Something about angels stopping lightning bolts from hitting the house, and the angels were getting hit with the lightning but were not hurt. Or something. And the angels were blowing their trumpets at the lightning. "Booo, boo, boooooo!!!"

Jadelyn informed me the other day that she was going to work. I looked over and saw her on the little rocking horse with some toy keys in her hand. I asked her where she worked. "On Sabbath", she said. I asked again, and she told me that she works with Daddy.

Ruby, my 0.18% weight/height percentile or something recently told me something like, "I'm big, tall, and strong." Gotta love her view of herself! =)

On Sabbath night, we went to a baby shower for Ms. Nely at Ms. Hannah's house. Ms. Hannah had arranged for a clown to come and entertain the kids and men. From the stories I've heard, they all had a lot of fun. Jadelyn as a bit apprehensive at first, staying REALLY close to David and saying over and over that she didn't like that man, but eventually she warmed up and was right up there saying what balloon she wanted. Wish I'd have made sure that David had the camera! I missed out.

I love....

That Isaac's trend of "kissing me all over" (cheek, cheek, ear, ear, chin, nose, eye, eye, eyebrow, eyebrow, head, head, head) though it took about a year reprieve, has been back healthily for quite some time now.

I love that Isaac's trend caught on to Ruby, though her routine is different: cheek, cheek, ear, ear, chin, nose, head, ponytail, ponytail-holder. Maybe she does eyes, too...man, I need to pay better attention.

Just recently, Jadelyn caught on with her own version. Today's was cheek, "'nother cheek", head, cheek, cheek, head. Or something.

I tell them that I get paid in hugs and kisses. For a long time I was broke. Now I'm wealthy. Love those crazies. Easier to say when they're sleeping sweetly and not talking above each other the.whole.lunch. =) Oh, speaking of lunch! Looked across the table today and found Ruby crossing her eyes with her lips pursed together sticking WAY out. Man, I wished I had a camera. Cracks me up. Like her self-portraits do. Ha!

I love that Isaac wanted to help me cut felts by picking up all the scraps today. Ruby and Jadelyn helped me yesterday, but he was unable to due to his refusal to eat, and therefore his stationary existence at the table. =P We talked about how he was helping me, Ms. Angel, and Jesus. Later, I heard him singing "I'm a little helper, a helper, a helper, oh, I'm a little helper for Jesus!" That boy seriously has such a sweet singing voice. Ruby? She sang "Silent Night" for Grandma when we were down in Florida last week, and I was cracking up. It's such a raspy, cracking, strained sound. But man, does she ever sing with ALL her heart. =)

I love that lately when I practice piano, I am often flanked by two little girls.

Side note: Care coordinator e-mailed me last night. Dr. Walker was still in clinic, and care coordinator needed to leave and is off today. So hopefully we'll hear something by Monday. I'm happy that I know not to expect to learn anything today. Communication, people. It's a lovely thing. And I no longer feel like biting anyone's head off. Preventative communication, I would like to call it. =P Though I do wonder why, after telling us that the plan is to put Ruby in a cast for 6 months, no follow-up appointment or appointment for casting was made. Strange. We'll likely be going for a second opinion at Cincinnati Children's Hospital. The director of orthopaedic surgery there is interested in pediatric hip disorders AND neuromuscular disorders. Would LOVE to get in to see him - he might just know better how to treat my sweetie-patitie.

Next side note: Ruby left the water running slightly after washing her hands before she went to bed. I should go turn that off. Crazy girl.

I AM SO FRUSTRATED!!!!!!!

I am frustrated beyond belief about the run-around and lack of communication from Shriners after being told that they plan to put Ruby in a cast for 6 months. We have concerns (which of course I think are quite valid), shared them, and now have waited a week with NO ANSWERS. The care coordinator told us yesterday that Dr. Walker hasn't responded to the e-mail and that the care coordinator would get a hard copy of the e-mail to Dr. Walker today. In today's e-mail, she told me that Dr. Walker has been very busy today (isn't she always?) and that the care coordinator "suspects" the Dr. Walker will REVIEW the e-mail at the end of the day. When can we expect a response? In a year? Good grief. Why won't they just clear up the confusion and get on with the best plan of action? Ruby ain't gettin' any younger, and this problem should've been fixed YEARS ago. Add to this the fact that I found a 30 page or so report last night from some Dr.'s at Mayo Clinic about CMT and hip subluxation and how often this problem happens in CMT kids and how it may be a bad idea for a CMT kid to be put in a cast because it "may exacerbate hip weakness". But when we bring up the possibility of CMT playing a role in Ruby's hip subluxation to the Dr.'s they blow us off. Mama Bear is out in full force and I'm having a hard time calming down so I can be civil when they do decide that it's important enough to get back with us. Everything I read says this problem should be fixed by age 5, and Ruby will be 5 in 25 days. STOP PUTTING US OFF!!!!! ARRRRGGGGGHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!! I think I need to scream. But the kids are sleeping. So I shouldn't do that. Maybe I should go iron. =/

You know you're kinda lame when....

you crave quiet, alone time so you can iron. Really. When that's your hobby, you've got to wonder about yourself. Well, I crave that time. Funny thing is, is that laundry and ironing are like my two favorite chores. I don't like actually DOING the laundry, but folding it is great. And I keep up on that. But ironing? Because it's my favorite, I put it off as like a "reward" for getting my other chores done, and it somehow gets pushed to the end of my to-do list, which explains the laundry basket full of clothes needing to be ironed that has been a permanent fixture in our bedroom for the past oh, 7 months or so. I need a hobby. =P

Ruby was a bit random this morning - going off talking about things without saying what in the world she was talking about. This was a bit concerning - normally anyone can follow the child. Add this to the fact that the last two mornings she has reported that she feels like she is going to throw up, hasn't really been eating heartily, and says that she feels weak. =P Talked to David about it and he said "maybe she has a UTI". Well, she started acting more normally later, so I didn't worry too much about it. Hope she's okay!

Isaac...that fella. He stood at the table for 5 hours this morning because he didn't want to eat his food. He finally finished it. FINALLY. Wowzers. I think I'd have given in and just eaten the stuff quicker. Stubborn stamina that fella has. And so I have to, too. For if I didn't, he wouldn't have eaten, and he would've thrown up by now from hunger. AHHHHH!!!!!

Soon after leaving my Grandma's house on Sabbath, Jadelyn informed us in the van, "I not goofy. I two." (She likes to say "I two" while holding up one finger. Adorable.) Pucka had been calling her goofy, and I guess that just perturbed her. Ha! As much as she loves Pucka and talks about him, she doesn't really want him anywhere near her. My poor father. =)

And if we let kids name things and be in charge of grammar rules, things would make more sense in the English language. Cases in point? "Teethbrush" - courtesy of Jadelyn, and the oft-repeated "gooder" instead of "better", courtesy of the older two. Had to throw this in just to be random myself, you know. Huh...maybe I have a UTI. ;) Love you, David!

Huh....

Well, we have heard nothing back from Shriners after asking our questions about the plan of putting Ruby in a cast for 6 months. I sense a pattern - tell parents scary things and then leave them dangling. =P Well, we're planning on Ruby having to be in a cast for some time - whether it's the 6 months with no surgery or the 6 weeks following surgery, so today during our Wal-Mart trip, we bought big underwear to cut and affix velcro to so that it will fit over her cast. Got home and realized that won't work. So, we'll have to buy material and make it fit like a diaper like my smart mother-in-law brainstormed. Next up will be pants/skirts that will fit over the cast and then to make some chairs that Ruby will be able to sit in and such. Trying to make this seem like an adventure of sorts to the kids instead of the dreadful mess that it is. Hope I can keep it up. And hope it gets done soon. If she gets her cast on next week (yeah, not likely), she won't be out of it until almost June. And then it's HOT and SWIMMIN' weather, folks. And this gal loves to swim. We were at a hotel on our way back from Grandma's house on Sabbath night, and that gal went right from the hot tub to literally jumping in the pool. She has SUCH a sense of adventure and craziness. I love it. Though I don't share it. =O

It was nice to see Grandma, but sad, too. She sleeps a lot of the day, and doesn't seem to feel like talking much. She's still crocheting 2 hand towels a day, and still working on her crossword puzzles, but she's getting so very weak. I don't understand at all how she can do what she does on just a tiny bit of apple juice and a few bites of ice cream a day. That lady is simply amazing. I am so very blessed to have her as my Grandma. The strength! Wow. Ruby especially seemed to enjoy being with Grandma - standing by her chair, talking and showing her paintings over and over and over, and Grandma? She was a grand sport. Though she wasn't all about the kids pulling all the toys out of the toy box at once. Ooops. =O Ruby and Isaac both seemed to really enjoy their time with their great-aunts and uncles. All cuddle-buggy they were! =) When we were getting ready to leave, Uncle Skosh told me something about how I was the rock for my family, as it's hereditary. I don't know if I can EVER posses the strength and grace of Grandma. I sure love her, and wish she didn't have to go through all this. When I told her that, Grandma said that we all have to at some time and told me that there are "better days ahead", which seemed to be in reference to heaven. Oh, to take the pain out of it, though, 'eh?

Huh...sure seems like there is more to say, but yeah, that's what I get for not writing down any notes. =P

Ruby

Ruby, out of the blue: "Now guys, yesterday when you put me on Mouthbound, nobody told me I could get off, but I started talking". (something to that effect).

David: "Do you think I'm a priest?"

Ruby: "Yes".

Okay, then! =)

Heard back from Shriners today that Dr. Walker has decided on a plan of care for Ruby. 6 months in a cast. We have some concerns/questions about this, so put those in to the care coordinator, who should be talking to the doctor tomorrow, so guess we'll find out for sure then what the final plan is. This could be a long, LONG haul.

Oh, boy...I'm really getting bad at blogging!

Last week, while I was finishing reclaiming the strawberry patch from the weeds, Isaac was playing in the same strawberry patch when he began to go crazy, grabbing at his head like a madman and screaming about the nearby bee. Took me way longer than it should have to realize that he got stung. Took me even LONGER to find the actual sting site so I could put baking powder paste on it. It was right by his ear, and it swelled up nicely. Sorry, buddy!

While at the table one day during lunch, I glanced over at Jadelyn to see a "fish cracker" stuck partially up her nose. That child!

Overheard Ruby "reading" the other day. Not sure what the story was about, but it included this lovely tidbit, "you're wrong. I'm right. Stop the arguing!" Niiiicee, Rubes!

My children bite their fingers on accident while eating WAY MORE than would be expected. One day after Isaac had his accidental crunch-down and was crying due to the pain, Ruby piped in, "do you want me to bite my finger for you?" For you see, when one of the girls gets hurt, Isaac will often do whatever hurt them so that they feel better (maybe because they're not alone in their pain?) At least Ruby was willing to reciprocate the favor, though I believe Isaac turned her offer down. Much to the relief of Ruby's fingers, I'm sure. =P

One day, there was an all out jacket-pulling war amongst my kids. I believe that Jadelyn pulled Isaac and Ruby's jackets and Isaac pulled Jadelyn's jacket. Ruby informed me later that she was going to pull Jadelyn's jacket, too, but then Jesus told her not to do that, and she listened. Another time, Isaac wanted my old watch with the watchband no longer on it, but he couldn't find it. Well, while he was in a "break" on his bed, Ruby found it. She was going to play with it, but then she thought that she should give it to Isaac, who wanted it first. So under the bedroom door it was slid. I sure hope that the times she listens to Jesus increase!

Isaac had a crazy neck outbreak this past week. It started as a scratch at the base of his neck. None of us know where it came from. It then grew into a rash around the scratch, then into a bigger rash with bumps. David was getting mighty worried and wanted me to take I-see to the doctor. Being the stubborn person I am, I told David they wouldn't be able to do anything for it, anyways. I put on zinc oxide, but had to wash it off soon afterward, as it was spreading to other things in the house. =O I replaced it with charcoal, covered with gauze. My tape job left much to be desired, so I put on more tape, then packing tape over the gauze, hoping that would hold it on better. No such luck. So after an hour or two, that had to be removed, and it left behind some nice trails of charcoal on his neck. Ooops. The next thing we tried was hydrocortizone cream, and that seemed to work. He still has a rash, but it's much improving, thanks to David's repeated applications of hydrocortizone cream. Thanks, Buddy!

David was mowing with Jadelyn on his lap yesterday, when he saw her leg jerking along like crazy. He stopped. Her sock was shredded in one place and her leg was slightly scratched up from the barbed wire they were mowing by. David felt so bad, but was so happy it wasn't worse. Good thing she was wearing her thickest socks!

My Grandma isn't doing so well. She's down to like 100 pounds, is walking with a four-pronged cane, and is no longer able to complete her crossword puzzles, though Mom does report that Grandma is pulling some pranks. =) Well, with David's survey finally over, we are heading down there tomorrow. We'll get there on Wednesday and get to stay until Sabbath after lunch. I'm looking forward to seeing Grandma, but a bit afraid. I just don't do well with sickness and death. I hate to see Grandma doing so poorly when I'm so used to a healthy, active, vibrant lady. I'm so thankful that very soon we won't have to deal with sickness and death ANYMORE. Now, to get my kids over their colds so they can visit with Grandma, too. =P

Ruby had her neurologist appointment today. The Dr. thinks there is likely some neurological condition contributing to Ruby's hip problems, I think. At one point, he said that maybe we should look at getting the surgery done instead of the casting, because she could likely regress after the casting if there IS a neurological issue underlying the hip problem. But then when David and I tried to clarify this, he started backpedaling some, saying that he is a neurologist, NOT an orthopedist. I know that. I just wanted his input. Rats. Anyhow, he wanted some labs done. Ruby cried a little bit because she didn't want to have her blood drawn. I let her "draw" my blood a couple times, and I "drew" her blood a couple times, and then off we went to the lab. We had a bit of a wait, but then when we went in, Ruby had just the slightest whimper when the needle went in, and then she sat perfectly still while they drew 6-7(?) vials of blood. I was SO PROUD of her! She normally screams BLOODY MURDER when getting a shot, or even sometimes when Isaac and Jadelyn are getting shots, so this was a LOVELY surprise. She wanted to go up some more stairs and to some ramp that Isaac found, and I told her if she was still, we would do it after she was done. (I hadn't even mentioned not screaming.) Well, when it was all said and done, she nearly passed out once we got to the hall, but after laying down with her feet propped up and drinking some juice and eating some cake, she perked up and was off to the promised adventures. I was so proud of her! Isaac seemed quite concerned about Ruby. He sure loves that gal. He has said that if she has to have a cast, he will push her in her stroller, and I believe he will. Love how attentive he can be to her!

Well, if we are to really leave home right after breakfast tomorrow, I need to get packing. Off to the races! =P

Single-Moming It

So, today I was a "single-Mom" until about half an hour before bedtime. The kids behavior was fine, but my poor little fella threw up 5 times. Thankfully 2 of those times was outside, and he went over to the woods before up-chucking. 2 of the times he made it in the bowl, and the other one? All over the living room floor. Yuck. David is SO the puke cleaner-upper, but I managed to survive. Without throwing-up myself, though I did have to look away and bury my nose in my shirt several times. Why was this a day that David couldn't be home more? Stinkin' survey. =P And then, as I was enjoying my naptime peace, it was cut very short. Ruby and Isaac woke up and were partying by like 3pm. I know, I shouldn't complain, since my almost 5 year-olds are still such good nappers. I'm not ready for the next phase of parenthood - "the no naptime phase". YIKES! I really have no idea how single parents do it. I'm just emotionally drained by like 5:30pm, and my brain is screaming, "BACK-UP, PLEASE!!!!" Even if the kids have been good. Crazy.

And to end, a quote from my Isaac, "I have a blender in my belly. It blends my food up gooder". I love that little guy - puke and all. May this sickness not last for weeks and weeks and weeks like it did 2 years ago. =O

Isaac and His Machines....

Today at lunch, Isaac introduced us to his plans for two machines. One is a car, I believe, that has a button on it. When he gets older, he will push the button on the car and it will drive very, very fast to a nice person's house. He will marry that person. And he will call her "Mommy" and she can call him "Daddy". Ruby told him that the Mommy can call him "Isaac", but he wasn't to be persuaded. =)

Oh, and the other machine? What was it? See, I totally need to write things down right away. =P OH! It has to do with training his dog. Yes, that's it. He is going to have a machine to train his dog so that his dog won't be mean to his kids. All 11 of them. After the dog is trained, Isaac can then get some "sheepies". And I can come visit and ask, "may I pet your sheepies?" And Isaac will say "yes" and take me out into the pasture. For that is where he plans to live with his Mommy, 11 children, machines, sheepies, and dog. In our pasture. Ruby wanted to live in the pasture, too, but Isaac says there will not be room. His eyes lit up as he informed her that she could live in the woods by the bouncey tree so she can bounce whenever she feels like it. And, an added bonus that Isaac thought of, "YOU WON'T HAVE TO MOW!!!" Still, Ruby didn't like this idea. They settled on the idea of her living by the chicken shed. But not IN it, as Isaac suggested. He is planning on keeping his kids in a shed. So they don't get close to the fence. Or something. This kid and his ideas for caging up his children. Seriously. Where does he get THAT from? =P

David, oh, I mean "Alfred" is dressed up as a butler for work today. Including appropriate name-tag, "silver" (aluminum foil-covered) platter and goblet, tuxedo, white towel (he was supposed to borrow one of those from work), and painted-on handlebar mustache. Oh, yeah...he's a hottie! =)

And that is it for now!

Catching up - again! =P

Last week we had what I believe is our first official prayer for forgiveness by one of our children on their own. Who was it? Little Jadelyn. For hitting Ruby, she was sent around the garden. She didn't want to complete it, so had a spanking for disobeying. She whimpered around the garden, and then came to me, where I was working in a strawberry patch. I hugged her and didn't say a word. Then, she started: "Dear Jesus.....dear Jesus.....dear Jesus" by this time I was going to jump in and help her, but then she continued on her own, "Forgive for hit Ruby. Amen."

My Isaac continues to be a thinker. He came up with some exercise to 'help' Ruby's hip. I told him that he is a good "exercise doctor". Ruby then asked him if that was what he was going to be when he grew up. He responded in the negative. So I probed further to discover what he would do when he grew up since he would need some money to support his LARGE family. (He informed me recently that he is going to need a dining room table bigger than ours so all his kids can fit around it. ;D) Isaac perked up, and informed me that he was going to have a "money machine" that will "make money!" Both coins and paper money. Thus taking away the need for him to have a job. Genius, 'eh? =P Good grief...I sure hope I can get this boy to enjoy good work!

We attended yet another 3 hour or so appointment at Shriner's last week. With a new doctor. Dr. Walker. The one who would actually do Ruby's surgery if surgery was necessary. I think. Anyhow, I was quite apprehensive about this appointment since the only rating for Dr. Walker on-line was negative - regarding her bedside manner, which is the problem I've been struggling with with the previous orthopedic surgeon. Anyways, I was very thankful to find her willing to listen to us AND Ruby. No other orthopedic surgeon has really LISTENED to Ruby. And what do you know? Because she talked to Ruby and listened to Ruby, she saw how Ruby "clicks" her hips. Ruby explained how she did it and showed the doctor. The doctor then asked Ruby to stop doing that, and turned and told us that she thinks Ruby is partially or completely dislocating her hip on her own. The doctor gave her hips some thorough examination and was unable to dislocate Ruby's hip, though it appears Ruby is able to do it. Strange, I think. Dr. Walker then told us that Ruby will probably need to be in a cast for 6 months with no surgery, or have surgery and then be in a cast for 6 weeks. She needs to consult with more doctors as to the best plan of action, and we're supposed to hear back next week. In the meantime, we've been doing the exercises that a PT gave to us to do and hoping that Ruby's muscles will get stronger and pull her leg back into the hip socket. Not real likely, I don't think, but hey, it is SURE worth the try! When Ruby complains about the exercises, I remind her that the exercises are WAY better than a cast would be. OH! The first day after our appointment, Ruby sought me out asking to exercise. I love that gal's motivation! Anyhow...that was a real side-track. =O After meeting with the doctor and the PT, it was off to meet with the social worker, Faith, for a referral to a neurologist. She got the appointment set up while we were there, so we're off to meet up with Dr. Farjam Farzam (name just cracks me up!) on November 7. Bright and early. Hopefully the kids (and David and I) will survive!

After our LONG appointment, we went to a park for a picnic and bike ride. It was Jadelyn's first "real" bike ride, and she was a trooper, albeit slow. The kids rode for over a mile and a half, I think. I was so proud! There were some big 'ole hills to get up, and Isaac commented at some point, "I wish I had a motor". Ha! =) Ruby rides her bike like a crazy woman. David said that he thinks Ruby will do real well in school with "book smarts" and all, but he's not sure he wants to ride with her when she starts driving! She'll be pedaling along and all the sudden, WHAM! Brakes go on all the way until she stops. One time, she left a good 7 foot or so skid-mark behind her. =) All or nothin' with that gal. It also tickled my funny bone to no end watching her run and have to constantly swipe at her pants to keep them up. Poor skinny gal. ;)

Ruby was talking to David on the phone the other day, when I heard her ask him if he would stay on the phone while she switched the phone to her other ear. Ha. Not sure how long she anticipated the switch was going to take! =) Then, when she was all done switching, she got back on the phone and informed David that it was "still Ruby, your daughter". Oh, that girl!

I don't remember exactly what happened, but David commented to Ruby that it must be "rough being a little girl." Ruby then replied something to the effect of it being "even rougher being a grown-up" and having a baby and not having a job and having to go to jail. This said because we met someone at church last year who had to go to jail for not paying child support. David then had to explain about how some parents don't live together and stuff. I'm still not sure Ruby got it all. =P

Ruby and I finally got the couch vacuumed under the cushions. It was getting kinda nasty. Anyways, when we were done, Isaac took the vacuum apart so I could empty the container. After the dust around the trash can settled down, one of the kids found a button in the garbage and rescued it, placing it on the counter. Well, sometime, it must've gotten knocked down, because I rescued it out of the dirt pile after sweeping the kitchen. I think that rescued button belongs on one of David's dress shirts. I should check that out sometime.

We were writing a thank-you note to a boy and his Mom who gave Isaac a book. Isaac was spouting off what he wanted me to write in the note, and then very seriously told me not to write that he couldn't have the book read to him because he peed his pants because that might make them feel sad. Ha! Took me a bit to get what he was talking about - one day he picked that book for storytime, but he had peed in his pants, so instead of getting a story, he had to change his pants, so he missed out. That silly boy. Someday, SOMEDAY, he will keep his pants dry ALL THE TIME. Last night while at someone else's house, he asked to use the bathroom. I was proud of him, because times like that he is more prone to wet his pants than others, because he's enjoying himself so much and stuff, I guess.

We've been teaching the kids about 9-1-1 lately. Stressing to not practice on the phone unless Daddy is there to make sure they don't hit the "talk" button. Anyhow, at lunch today, they were practicing away. Isaac was the 9-1-1 operator, and Ruby was the caller. They both learned our address today, too. I was so proud! OH! And last night, Ruby remembered when her birthday is for the first time. I was so proud! OH! AND Ruby learned to play a good sized portion of "Jesus Loves me" on the piano today. I was so proud! =)

At during naptime prayers, Ruby told Jesus, "I love you, Jesus. For real. Like I sing in Jesus Loves me." Or something. I sure do love listening to their prayers!

Oh, my, am I ever behind!

And Isaac (at least I THINK it was Isaac =O) had such a good quote this morning, I almost posted it to Facebook (haven't posted a kid story there since May, I don't think), but I DIDN'T WRITE IT DOWN, SO THEREFORE FORGOT IT! Huff.

Okay, to my notes of things that I DID manage to write down. =P

Jadelyn was holding her chin and informed me that she hurt her "knee". Huh.

Jadelyn brought a magna doodle over to Isaac and said, "you're welcome" with a smile. No, no "thank you" was given to respond "you're welcome" to, but hey! She's learning! =)

When putting Jadelyn to bed, she asked for a "'nother manket" (another blanket). That's what she often calls her quilt. This time, though, she was referring to a big-kids-blanket that stays tucked into the mattress like Ruby and Isaac have. I really should be moving her to a big-kids-bed soon, but AHHHHH!!!! =P

When her hair is not done, Jadelyn is hard to see underneath all that hair hanging in her face. One morning, Jadelyn was saying that she needed the "face out Nini's hair". HA! Now I know for sure what is more predominant! =)

At nighttime prayers, Jadelyn said, "thank you Daddy." Daddy asked her if perhaps she could thank Jesus for Mommy, Ruby, and Isaac, too. Jadelyn then prayed, "thank you Daddy, Ruby, Isaac, Nini, Amen". Daddy again prompted her to say thank you for Mommy. Jadelyn then prayed again, "Thank you Jesus, Amen". Persistent Daddy tried AGAIN to get Jadelyn to thank Jesus for Mommy. Jadelyn's final prayer? "Thank you Jesus, Mommy, Amen." David decided, "4th try's the charm". =) Good thing I know that Lynnie really DOES love me, 'eh?

The kids are all experiencing some super chapping around their lips/chin/whatever, so at night we slather 'em up with Vaseline. Jadelyn keeps her lips really still after this application. One night she said "night night" or "bye bye" or something - hey, I didn't write down the specifics in my note! - like a ventriloquist. Cracks me up. She's not really doing it much anymore, though. Rats.

David and I recently had an "ah-HA!" moment regarding Isaac's brain processes. David thinks that perhaps Isaac thinks in pictures. This would explain why Isaac doesn't know his colors, but can point out what matches other things. Or how he once exclaimed of one of those big white crosses by freeways, "Mom, there's a cross that is like Daddy's underwear!" Oh, man...that just cracks me up. =) This picture-thinking-theory would also explain why Isaac calls his toenails his "bottom ones" when getting fingernails and toenails clipped. It would ALSO explain why when I tell Isaac he can just put something in the washing machine he always asks, "the wet one?" Who needs formal names for things, anyhow? =P The picture-thinking-theory would NOT, however, explain this little story: It was time for Isaac to do a last potty time. He went into the bathroom, checked to see if his underwear was wet or dry (he can only tell by LOOKING sometimes instead of being able to FEEL if it's wet. Oh, wait - that's back to the visual thing. But I digress.), and then informed me of his findings. It was either dry or just a TINY wet. I don't remember. ANYHOW! I then asked him if he went potty, but little man didn't know. AHHHHH!!! So, I sent him back to try. That kid is about as distracted as his father at times. Hmmm....

Ruby was on the "phone" the other day when her side of the conversation caught my attention: there is a "lion in our house. It's killed a lot of penguins. And the penguins are eating the lion. And it's eating an owl, too. And it stinks....I love you, bye, bye." Awful nonchalant, I think. ;)

My three kiddos were stomping around in my "stompers" (aka "heels") when Isaac informed his sisters, "there's wet water on the road. WET." Right. Opposed to "dry water", 'eh? =)

Ruby wanted to help me vacuum the other day. It was going along smoothly until Ruby noticed something - "I'm so crazy, I'm vacuuming when the vacuum's not on." Oh, no!!! Not another crazy distracted child!!!! =O

Overheard Isaac talking to Jadelyn: if you need help, say, "Isaac, come help me, please! And I will come." That kid just melts my hard little heart.

I was in the kitchen while Jadelyn was sitting on the couch "reading" a book when I hit something and exclaimed, "OW!" Jadelyn immediately reacted to my pain, "I kiss you!" I expected her to clamor off the couch and come kiss my owie, but no. She sat on the couch with the biggest pucker directed toward me. I went over to her and THEN received my kiss. =)

When coming back from visiting our top-notch neighbors, Ruby commented that she didn't see the moon. Followed by this reasoning, "maybe the moon is at someone else's house tonight so they can enjoy it." Awww.

Isaac was talking about a whale fin when he declared, "I'll call this a paddle to row itself along."

Ruby informed me while in the bathroom to do her hair and teeth that toothpaste is "not good for your belly." Or Vaseline. "Or toys. Toys are definitely not good for your belly."

Yesterday Ruby decided to come spend some time inside where I was instead of outside with David, Isaac, and Jadelyn. But before she left, she had a request for David, "tell your children I love them." I'm so glad my kids say, "I love you" so much! =)

Today I witnessed the sweetest thing EVER. Today, the kids were allowed to go to a certain place in the woods all by themselves for the first time. I could see them in that certain place from where I was trying to reclaim one of the strawberry patches from the weeds. Anyhow, they are just LOVIN' the woods. We hadn't gone back there for about 4 months due to getting TERRIBLE chigger bites last time we ventured back there. Anyhow. Back to the sweetest thing EVER. Ruby and Isaac wanted to "adventure" out of the woods a different way than the tried and true trail. They did this "adventure" several times yesterday with Daddy-o. Anyhow, off they went. They went too fast for Jadelyn speed, so Jadelyn and I went back on the tried-and-true-trail. We were at the end of their "adventure" walk waiting for them. They asked if they could go back the other way, and I told them they could, so off they went. Jadelyn then decided that she wanted to go, too. I wasn't wanting to go, so I said that I was staying, but she could go with Isaac if she wanted. (Ruby was already off to the races and outta-there!) So, off she went. Isaac waited at the bottom of the hill for her, but when Jadelyn started running into trouble, he climbed back up to be by her, held her hand, and walked her down the hill. Then, he proceeded to take more than twice as long as it would have taken him had he gone by himself, so that Jadelyn could keep up with him. He encouraged her, helped her, gave her directions, and stayed so sweetly patient. At the end, I had two happy hikers (well, three, but Ruby was WAY done by then). And I got some pictures of the admiration the two CAN share for each other. My words don't give it justice. I was so proud of my Isaac and what a good big brother he is!

Well, tomorrow is a bright-and-early trip back to Shriner's to meet with a different orthopedic surgeon about a "procedure" or something. Guess we'll find out what that's all about tomorrow! I need to hit the hay!

Oh, the sweetness!

Over the weekend, Ruby was offering to read Jadelyn a story. But she had a disclaimer, "I won't get all the words right 'cause I don't know how to read yet". Today, it was a similar disclaimer, followed by, "but I'll do the best I can" or something to that effect. I love how Jadelyn and Isaac listen with rapt attention, though Ruby's babbling-stringing-together-of-preaching-sounding-words-at-times make little to no sense.

On Sabbath, we were getting ready to go for a walk to visit the neighbors horses, which the kids all love, though Jadelyn informed me now that "I scared" of them. =P Anyways, David was trying to distract Hickory so Ruby could get his leash on. It wasn't working well. Ruby then busts out asking David to put the leash on because "I'm not a dog one". Oooooh! =) Hickory is just a crazy hyper dog, and I don't blame Ruby at all. I just thought it was a funny excuse.

Early yesterday morning, David took Isaac to a deacon's meeting. Before they left, Isaac went around giving everyone hugs. Precious. Ruby was absolutely heartbroken that she didn't get to go. So was Jadelyn, who was standing out on the porch in her jammies and tennis shoes to wave goodbye saying that she was leaving, too. Isaac asked David to roll down the windows even though it was cold out so he could say "goodbye" to Ruby and Lynnie. Sweet boy. After the car pulled out, Jadelyn informed me that she was leaving in the van. Sweet, delusional Lynnie. Anyways, back to sad, sad Ruby, who was crying in her room. I went in with Jadelyn to see Ruby, and sat Jadelyn on Isaac's bed. Jadelyn said, "sorry, Ruby", trying her best to console her broken-hearted sister, but to no avail. Ruby continued to be sad. Well a few minutes after they left, I called David for something, and somehow I ended up talking to Isaac. But just very briefly, before he asked to talk to Ruby and Jadelyn. The "rejection" didn't hurt my feelings at all, I was just so glad he loved his sisters so much! Well, he talked to Lynnie for a while, who answered the phone, "hi-low, Isaac!", and then, to Ruby. She brightened right up and had a lovely conversation with her brother. It was one of the sweetest things I've ever seen. They are so not used to being apart, and they both seemed to miss each other after just a few minutes. Not that they can't survive apart, because they did, but they just LOVE each other! I asked them the other day what it's like to be a twin, since I've never been one. Ruby said it was fun to play with her twin, and Isaac? Well, he was being ornery and said that being a twin isn't fun. =P Whatever, Buddy-boy. Anyways, they really do love each other. Note to self: remember this story every time they're trying to pull each other's hair out. (Not literally, of course. =P) Anyways, after talking to Isaac, Ruby ended up talking to David, and at the end of the phone conversation, she said, "bye, bye, sweethear....Daddy". Ooops. Guess she caught herself parroting David, that time. ;)

This morning, Jadelyn was singing at the top of her lungs, "This Nini's stoooory!!!" to the tune of "This is My Story!" She sure knows how to personalize things, lately. =)

At the breakfast table, we were talking about the new "dry diaper charts" for Ruby and Isaac's nighttime diapers. If they keep their diaper dry, they get to put a smiley face on their charts. Well, we mentioned "smiley faces", and Jadelyn piped in, "Nini's smiley face!" showing us her cheezy grin. Cracks me up.

The kids have started on their new morning checklists today in an effort to curb Isaac's slothfulness in his work. Well, Jadelyn kept me updated this morning, yelling from Isaac's room to me in the kitchen, "Buddy's all done blankets!" Guess she's excited about his quick work, too.

Outside today, the kids enjoyed more running and gate climbing, as well as playing in the sandbox (haven't done that in a long time), and picking seed pods or something off the big sycamore tree. Man, were they ever having a ball, giggling and laughing and carrying on, not even having a problem when they were getting caught in thorns. Crazy kids. I love 'em.

Kid Stories

Ruby and Isaac were proud parents of a baby (doll) yesterday. I forget why, but their baby had to have a shot. But not to worry, Ruby (I think) said that there was a sign that said the baby would only bleed for half a minute. I have never noticed these types of signs at doctor's offices. Maybe I'm not looking hard enough? =P

Jadelyn went looking for her big siblings yesterday. Upon finding them, she questioned, "Ah doing, guys?" Ha. I love that girl. And how she starts many things with "Ah" before saying what she wants to. Crazy Lynnie.

Jadelyn and I have been having some miniature "potty talks". You know, like this, "Jadelyn, when you go on the potty all the time, you can wear underwear!" Or "Jadelyn, when you go poopy on the potty, you won't have poopy all over your bottom!" Yeah, I know. =P Anyways, we've also talked about how gum is for kids who go on the potty. Yesterday, Jadelyn stood in the hallway, and told me "Ah poopy out" (informing me she had just pooped, which she did NOT, for the record) before asking me if she could have gum. Um...I think she missed the part about gum being for people who poop IN the potty. If I rewarded that child with gum for every time she pooped, I'd be in the poorhouse. How's THAT for WAY too much information? =O

Jadelyn was speedily riding her bike around the house yesterday while singing over and over again, "Jesus moves (rhymed with "loves") me!" I love that kid!

Yesterday we were listening to the General Store on the radio where people call in and say what they have to sell, give away, trade, want, etc. Suddenly, Ruby perked up, "what's that?" she asked. I told her it was a kid in the background on the radio. She then informed me why she looked so surprised, "I thought it was an Amish one yelling real loud." Yeah, 'cause those Amish neighbors are SO noisy. Or not. No WONDER she looked shocked! =)

Yesterday Isaac was wearing some "new" (for him, anyways) sweatpants that I took in so they would fit him better. (But alas, I didn't take them in enough. =O) Anyways, Ruby complimented Isaac on his "new" pants: "Isaac, you look like a handsome fandsome". Ha! Oh, yeah...Ruby TOTALLY has the hang of this rhyming thing down now. =)

Yesterday, Ruby again chose a book about Cambodia as her story. Today's section involved the history of the country including Pol Pot. I know, I know...what in the world am I reading my children?!?!?! =O David picked the book out at "Mighty Dollar", and I hadn't pre-read it. =O Anyways...the kids had LOTS of questions. Like why Pol Pot was smiling in his picture. We talked about how Jesus made us to be good, but He lets us choose if we are going to follow Him or Satan. At some point I said how Pol Pot had killed "hundreds and hundreds and hundreds and hundreds and hundreds...." of people. Today, when David came home, Isaac drug the book back out, showed him the little picture of Pol Pot and informed David that Pol Pot had killed "dozens and dozens" of people. Somehow it got downgraded. But Isaac is quite wide-eyed about there being such an evil man. Ruby pointed out when we were reading that we don't know anyone that evil. Thankfully not! Well, besides Satan himself, of course. =P

I came to a new low yesterday. While playing Memory with Ruby, I was whooped on. By a 4 year-old. Without ANY intention of letting that happen. I didn't help her find matches, and didn't purposely not find matches that I knew of. This is the second time this has happened. The first was a long time ago. But this time? Ruby ended up with 10 matches, and I got a lowly 5. How did she get so big? Today she was asking me why she was paying better attention to the game than I was. Um, you weren't! I just have an old brain, and luck was on your side! =O No, I didn't really tell her that.

Another low of yesterday...I was grudgingly getting ready to mop when I remembered "ding!" I have a new mop! I think my face literally lit up and I hurried off to get it. Then I realized how pitiful this was. Ha! Well, I wasn't alone in my excitement. Isaac happily helped me rip the plastic off the mop, and Ruby did some mopping herself. Quite well, too. So well during her last turn, in fact, that I didn't have to mop over any of her area. Isaac wanted to help, too, but that didn't work out. Logistical issues. BUT! Did I blog about how Isaac helped me put straw down around the berries the other day? One day, he laid little squares of straw down the row I was working on so I didn't have to go back and grab any straw. SUPER handy. And then, he actually helped me spread it around the little patch of blackberries a day later. He's a natural. And I'm so proud. =)

Today, Isaac was sent around the garden for 3 trips due to a bad attitude. A few short minutes (or maybe less than that?) Ruby was also sent out for some infraction. I think it was a crazy fit because Jadelyn had something or took something or something. =P Anyways, I watched out the window. Ruby was standing at her starting point. Isaac was paused around the garden some, looking at Ruby. He stayed there as Ruby walked toward him. Then, when she got close, he reached his sweet little hand out toward her, and grabbed her hand. That stopped soon, but they walked on side-by-side. Next time I looked out, they were having a grand time and holding hands. Ruby waited for Isaac to get up one time after he fell (still happy). When they were done, they came back inside, happy-as-clams. (If clams are really happy, that is.) Soon after, out they went again, this time followed by Jadelyn, for much running fun - around the house, around the garden, around the house, around the garden, out to the barn....then they got distracted by the green gate which they climbed on 'til it was time to come inside for lunch. I love, love, LOVE watching them run around outside! So thankful to have a place they can run! Our last house had a BUSY road in front of it, and a not-so-busy-two-track-like-thing right behind it. I LOVE the country! =) Ruby? She loves folding laundry. =) She informed me today, while helping me fold laundry, that when she is a grown-up, she is going to fold laundry all the time. Ha. Glad I'm not the only nerd in this house. =)

Isaac's prayers....

My little man went through quite a long period of time where he wouldn't pray by himself - just repeat after us. Well, after much work, he's back to praying by himself. In great detail. I love listening to him!

Last night, he was praying for my Grandma, that she wouldn't die, that her taste would come back, that Gram and Pucka would be really helpful to her, and other things that my brain can't remember. =O He has also started praying on and off at the end of his prayers about "please help when I die for no dirt to get in my mouth or nose" or something. Okay, that part disturbs me partially, but it keeps coming back up now and then and since I've heard it more than once it doesn't disturb me as much. He also prays that if his house burns down "please don't let my Bible burn". That would come from an Uncle Arthur's bedtime story about "The Book that Would Not Burn". Ha.

Today, he prayed that Daddy would do a good job taking care of people at the nursing home and that he would come home safe when he was done with work. Or something like that. And he also prayed, "please help me to be good".

I'm so glad he's "remembered" how to pray by himself again! And I'm sure Jesus loves listening to my little boy even more than I do!

Update (or not really) on Ruby's hips...

Got a call from our care coordinator at Shriner's today. We even talked nice to each other. =O My, my....=P

Anyways, she is going to coordinate the referral to the neurologist like the geneticist recommended. So, that appointment isn't set up yet, but will be in the next week. Hopefully.

Also, we are going back to Shriner's in two weeks from tomorrow (2 months before our scheduled appointment) to meet with Dr. Walker, the hip specialist, who would apparently (?) be the surgeon to do surgery if surgery is necessary. We are meeting to discuss any necessary procedure. Or something. Just when I thought that MAYBE we wouldn't have to have surgery, now we're meeting to discuss a procedure? Oh, man. I'm confused. But I'll try to hold onto the peace I've had for the last week. Peace that stemmed from thinking that maybe Ruby wouldn't have to have surgery, but whatever. Worrying does me no good, so I just need to write down questions and not leave until the questions are answered and I understand things. Right? Also, we don't know if this means that Ruby needs surgery (although if she does, I'd MUCH prefer it to be done now than Summer when we spend so much more time outside, and when it's HOT and her cast would get all stinky/sweaty/nasty, but you know...), or if our orthopedic surgeon just wants to pass us off because we're HEADACHES. So, you know...I'm really not anticipating learning anything new during our next visit so much. Just like an "appease the parents" visit. Or something. Huh.

And that is the update (or not really) on Ruby's hips.

Small-town Livin'

During Prayer and Praise time at church today, Ruby informed the church family that she got a shot yesterday so she doesn't get "the fluid". Ha. Isaac informed the church family that we had a millipede in our house today. The things our church family learns, 'eh? =) One of the songs today was "Trust and Obey", which Ruby loves to BELT out during the chorus. Mr. Bill was up on the platform today, and when Ruby would start singing, he was trying to hide a smile and keep singing. Well, tonight, Ruby told me the rest of the story. When she would sing, she would smile at Mr. Bill, and he would smile back at her. David said he had to hold his hymnal up high so he couldn't see Mr. Bill, 'cause David was having a hard time keeping it together and not laughing. =) Ruby also told us that Mr. Bill recently told her that he just loves seeing her, 'cause she makes him happy. She seems to have that effect on people. Who don't live with her. Ha. =)

Last night, I accidentally left my keys out on our back porch. Good thing we live in the boonies and nobody wants to break in and steal our goodwill furniture. =)

Speaking of living in the boonies...David was talking to me last night about the constable in the "city" he works in. The Constable is 80-sompthin' and David described him to me last night. He wears dirty blue work pants, a white t-shirt, and a cap with "Police" on it. He drives a 1985 Cavalier or Corsica with a small blue light attached to a cord stuck to the top. He also has cotton shoved in one ear and a hearing aid in the other. =) In other words, he doesn't look real offical or threatening. =) He lives across from the nursing home, so is right there to help out when necessary. There's a "no parking" place in front of the nursing home, but people park there all the time. Which, apparently, is okay with the Constable. What is NOT okay, however, is when a semi parks there, and he comes right out to send them on their way. Yesterday, a semi came to deliver something to the nursing home, and Mr. Constable man was right there to send the semi driver away. The semi driver was looking like he was going to unload something to deliver, so the Constable whipped out a yellow pad of paper and said he was going to write a ticket and call a tow-truck if the man didn't leave. So, the semi roared off to park at Dollar General across the street. What's extra great is that David said the Constable's yellow paper was something that you could just buy at Dollar General - nothing official at all. David loves this guy, so we're not making fun of him...he is DEDICATED, driving by the nursing home at 10pm and midnight every day to make sure no funny business is up, as well as keeping up with the rest of his constable duties with precision. Small town living just cracks me up. Totally where I belong. Though I wouldn't mind being closer to church and Wal-Mart. You know...the essentials. ;)

Life with David

Isaac: "Can I have more chocolate milk?"
David: "Eat some more cake, first" (it's healthy cake with tofu frosting)
Kim: "Did you really say that?"
David: "It's like spinach!"

Oh, boy.

Ruby: "I don't like it" (the aforementioned healthy cake.)
David: "What. It's too healthy?"

On our bike ride today, Isaac was asking why it was so quiet. I told him that it was kind of nice, huh? Soon after, David and I were talking, and Isaac told me he just wanted to be quiet. Bless his quiet heart. =) Later, I asked David if we should be quiet while walking our bikes up a hill to avoid alerting the big German Shepherd at the top of the hill of our whereabouts. Some kiddo asked why we were being quiet. David said, "so we can hear the nature. And so the nature can't hear us". Where did this guy come from, anyhow?

Have I mentioned that I LOVE yard sales?

Well, I do.

This morning, we headed off to work with Daddy-o to get our flu shots. 2 of us didn't cry. 3 did. Any guesses? Ha. Ruby was definitely the loudest. But it wasn't all bad. Two of the residents gave them some candy and gum after it all.

Then, it was off to the therapy department, where the kids got to play with a balloon with one of the therapists for a while. Then, Ms. Debbie gave Jadelyn the cutest little hair bow that matched her shirt GREAT. I've never done the hair bow thing, 'cause, well, it costs money and takes time and such, but man...it was adorable. And after singing "Jesus Loves Me" and looking at some pictures, they got HELIUM balloons to take home. Ruby and Isaac were holding SUPER tightly to theirs, but somehow Jadelyn's got away and popped. There was a delayed cry. Followed by getting another helium balloon. Good thing those kids don't visit Daddy at work more often or they would be super spoiled.

Then, it was off to the doctor to see if I could get my blood drawn to check my thyroid levels. I used to only have to do this once a year, but since we moved here, it's every 3 months. Crazy. Especially since I haven't had my dosage changed since just after Jadelyn was born. I think. =P The people at the doctor's office are super nice. They remember my name, where David works (they've never met him), often remember to ask how the kids' therapy was doing, and we've only been there a few times. They also remember my kids' names (or at least Ruby's), so that's a bonus. =)

After that, we headed out yard sale-ing. Really, we only went to one, but we found a LOT of nice boys clothes that will fit Isaac when he's 16 or so. Ha. Really, we got sizes 5 -12? or so. I stock up and box 'em up, and then when the kids grow, I just pop open a box and am a hero. For now. Sometime they might stop liking garage sale clothes. At that time, they will need to find a job. =) Because today, for $50, I got three big bags of clothes/shoes. I love 50 cent yard sales! Okay, some was more than that, but you know. =P While at the garage sale, the office manager of the doctor's office showed up and said "hi" to us. Then we saw the receptionist who told us of her great finds. Then we saw the nurse and the nurse practitioner. Yeah, that would be all 4 of them that work at the doctor's office. Ha. The receptionist said they took a break to come out to the yard sale. Gotta love small towns, huh? =)

OH! Last night, I was just starting my mopping when the mop handle broke in two. So, my floors got cleaned last night, but my back was hurting from bending over so far. Also noticed scratches on the palms of my hands today - likely from the rough metal from where the mop broke. And with my spending at the garage sale today, I don't know if I'll have enough in my budget to get a new one next week. Yikes. I'll just have to cut something else out. I can't be breaking my back again. And, well, the squeezy-part of the mop looks like it's about to break, too. =O

Okay, enough talk. With being gone all morning, I have a LOT of work to do to get ready for Sabbath!

Wedding in My House

This morning, Ruby and Isaac were playing along when the following conversation caught my attention:

Ruby: "I was trying to marry a man, but he didn't like the smell of me, so he ran away, so I can't get married".

Pause.

Isaac: "Do you want me to marry you? [pause] I will. I love you so much."

Awww.

Isaac then said he would marry her if she was nice, even if he didn't like the smell of her. Or something like that.


Then, this afternoon, I heard Ruby asking Isaac if he loved her and Jesus. Isaac said he did, but he loved Jesus more. Ruby decided that was okay with her, but asked again, "do you love me, too?" or something. Ha. Then they REALLY got decked out in their wedding attire.


Oh, they crack me up.


On a different note, I overheard Jadelyn counting today. Today's counting was, "7, 8, 9, 10, lot."

Also, I talked with Ruby's genetic counselor today. She ran the x-rays by a doctor. who specializes solely in skeletal issues and his impression based on the x-rays is that Ruby's hip subluxation is due to hypotonia. So, the question now is "what is causing the hypotonia?" The genetic counselor got back with the geneticist that we saw, and he said that the hypotonia he saw in Ruby was really not impressive, which is a good thing, 'cause it means it's not super bad or anything. So, they want us to go see a neurologist now to see if there is a neurological problem. The good news I see in this is that maybe Ruby won't have to have surgery but just more exercises focused on her hips? That would be FANTASTIC! We'll see....

David talked to the orthopedic surgeon today. We understand things better now. She said that hip subluxation is on the mild side of the dysplasia spectrum. (Why has no one told me this before? =P) And she said that with some hip problems, age is really important, but with the mildness of this condition, it wouldn't matter if surgery was done now or in 2 years. So, we'll probably not learn anything new until after we visit a neurologist and/or see the orthopedic surgeon again in December. At least I'm not so worried now. EDUCATE THE PARENTS, FOLKS! =P

Okay, this house needs some sweepin' and I need some sleepin'. Oh, that was corny. Oh, well.

Supper talk...

Last night, Jadelyn proclaimed with glee that she had a "cookie". Alas. It was a meatball. I felt the disappointment coming. It didn't show up. Ruby then announced that "these are good stuff". Wowzers! There are rarely compliments on supper meals, so this was something! Jadelyn then said again, "I eat cookie" and chomped with enthusiasm. Ruby informed her that it was not a cookie, but a "meat bulb." Jadelyn then said, "I eat house" and continued eating her "cookie". Ruby informed me that it was a "good supper that you made". Jadelyn wanted another slice of orange pepper from the garden. She pronounced it "yummy" though she had a disgusted look on her face. I guess I'll call that meal a success. ;)

Breakfast conversation...

This morning at breakfast, Isaac was talking about his "Mommy" again. He has decided that he is going to get up at night when his "Mommy" needs to feed his babies. That way if his "Mommy" gets bit, he can help her out. And the baby. No, just the "Mommy". Where this conversation came from, I'm not sure. They normally just feed their "babies" with a bottle. Huh. Then Ruby piped in, saying that her "Daddy" is going to go to work and she is going to stay home with their babies. I think Isaac said he is going to go to work, and Ruby informed him that if he gets up at night with the babies and then goes to work during the day, he won't get enough sleep. I wonder when she figures that the Mommy gets sleep....=P

I tilled up some of the garden today, with my kiddos trailing me back and forth and playing in the dirt. I wonder what's so much more fun about the garden than the sandbox. Tomorrow we'll dig potatoes, and I'm betting they'll love it like they did two years ago. Jadelyn's never been in on the fun since we didn't really have a garden last year - what with moving during the summer and all. =P

On a side note, why in tarnation does Jadelyn have to go poop after she's laid down for a nap? And WHY is she STILL awake?!?!?!?! =O But I do so love little pats on my back from that little girl! =)

The Grandparents Were Here!

And a blast was had by all. And my garage has suddenly turned into an organized work-space instead of what appeared to be an explosion of junk. Thanks, Grandma and Grandpa! =)

I'm a little behind in blogging because of this lovely visit, but I have my scribbled notes to help me remember things. =P

One day, Grandma was having "school" with the kids. She was talking to Ruby and asked if you have the word "cat" and take away the "c" and replace it with a "h", what word would you have? Ruby's response? "Kitty cat". =) I think Grandma was working above Ruby's capabilities for the moment. =)

At some point, David was talking to Ruby about a cowboy. But Ruby insisted it was a "horse boy" because he was riding a horse.

As I mentioned before, Grandma and Grandpa did incredible amounts of work in the garage. During this time, my little man decided to climb up on the kitty pedestal and put his head through the cat door. I heard some little noises, and looked at my Isaac, who's head was in the garage and who's body was out of the garage. Poor man had his head stuck. Why am I smiling while I write this? It's just wrong. Anyways, Grandma and I went to help him - one on each end, but he was s.t.u.c.k. Eventually we got his head out, but he was hurt and not happy. Sorry, fella. Lesson learned? I hope so. The kitty door is meant for the kitty.

Ruby informed me last week that people are more fun than toys. She was rather enjoying having her grandparents around, I think. ;)

My little Ruby was thinking aloud at some point about how Jesus made Himself alive, and "I don't know how He did it. Incredible." I love deep thoughts that come from my little people!

Ruby (man, I have a lot of Ruby stories this time =O) was playing doctor. She had to give me a shot. But had to check her paper first to see where this shot was to be given. She returned, informing me that the paper said that the shot had to be given in my nose. I wrinkled my nose up, and without missing a beat, Ruby scolded me, telling me that the paper "says not to wrinkle your nose". Ha!

Ruby was writing a song at the table. To an inexperienced song reader, this "writing" may have appeared to be nonsensical scribbles. But to Ruby, it was a lovely song: "God is with me all the time." Yes, He is! And I'm so glad.

I overheard Jadelyn do something (burp, perhaps? I don't remember exactly what.) that required her to say "excuse me". Without being prompted, Jadelyn said, "'scuse me. You're 'scused." Ha! Who needs someone else to excuse you when you can do it yourself? =)

Isaac informed me (after a bath, perhaps? Man...I need to make my scribbled notes more detailed. =P) that his foot had "crinkles" in it. And that it "feels like sand" is in it. "Or sugar". Hmmm....=)

One of Jadelyn's favorite books is the little "Love Bug" book that Gram and Pucka gave to Ruby for her first (I think) birthday. There is a part in it that says, "you're my silly goose, my moosey-moose, my monkey up a tree!" This is perhaps her very favorite part of all, or at least the part she remembers. =) Well, Jadelyn woke up from her nap earlier than Ruby and Isaac, and at some point, she headed off on a mission. When I asked her where she was going, she said, "monkey up a tee!" Too bad the book was in Ruby and Isaac's room and I had to tell her to wait. Thankfully, this time, she was okay with that, and no screaming was involved. =P

Ruby has pulled out another random accent. This one is a baby accent, and she doesn't say her "r's" properly. So, she's now done a Southern accent, a Caymanian accent, and now the baby accent. Wonder what's next? And where she's getting them from.

We went swimming at a local pool twice with Grandma and Grandpa. The kids LOVED it. Well, Jadelyn took an hour or more to warm up to it the first time, but then she caught on to the fun. As long as I didn't let go of her. The pool we were in was salt-water and warm. Lovely. Here's a video that we made for my Grandma, who is still not doing well at all:



We sometimes put on our snorkel goggles to watch underwater as the kids jumped in. Isaac jumped in with a little smile on his face, and Ruby jumped in with her eyes open, crazy gal! Isaac was VERY hesitant to jump in the first time. He wanted to SO bad, but was afraid. I finally held one hand, and then, before I knew it, he had climbed out and jumped in again. Guess he conquered that fear! =)

Ruby informed me that Grandma is fun because she buys "junk food" and she lets Ruby wear her flip-flops. Ruby is banned from mine until next summer for her poor behavior related to my flip-flops, so wearing Grandma's was an extra special treat. ;)

Last night when Jadelyn was praying before bed, she prayed, "thank you for anteater. Amen". Ha! That was a new one. ;)

And that's the end of my scribbled notes!

Oh, but I just thought of something from today. Ruby and Isaac were sliding down their little slide on their bellies, crashing their heads into the ground. There were MANY giggles. And some hurts. Nothing major. What they both seemed to enjoy the most? Ruby riding on Isaac's back down the slide. Looked like he REALLY slammed his head those times, but he didn't mind. Those crazy gigglers.

R.A.N.T against Shriner's

Dear Shriner's,

Last time I talked to the orthopedic surgeon, we were informed that Ruby likely needed surgery. Since then, we were sent back for not one, but TWO x-rays, as well as a video. I waited anxiously for 5 weeks, wondering what the fate of my dear daughter would be. This was seeming quite serious.

Then, our lovely care coordinator, who seems unable to fulfill promises of calling and telling us what is going on, though she has enough time to shoot me e-mails promising to call me, again fails to call. I called at the time she specified I could, and waited for a return call. None. So, I called the next day and was informed that she "done got my message". Then why in the world was there no follow-up e-mail or call to me? And then she wants me to wait another day to get me the information as to what is going on with Ruby. After I had given her 9 days since our last interaction as she requested. Sorry. No. Mama Bear came out and told said care coordinator that I thought that 5 weeks was long enough to wait. I wanted an answer. That very day.

What do you know? 2 hours later, I get a call from the orthopedic surgeon. Guess I should've been a jerk earlier. =P Anyways, dear doctor: Please to not minimize the long wait by telling me that it was "nothing acute" and that if it was, you would've worked on it faster. It seemed acute to me by the extra x-rays, video, and you telling me that surgery was probably going to happen. Please do not tell me that my care coordinator has been trying to keep me informed. HA! Please do not tell me that we're not in a "window" where surgery would need to occur or not. Last I checked, this type of surgery should be done when a child is YOUNG, and mine is almost 5. Her hips aren't getting any better, let me remind you, but worse. I DO appreciate that you are consulting with other doctor's and not making any rash decisions. I really do. Next time, though, please make sure that your care coordinator does her job and keeps the parents involved.

Thank you.

Kim

P.S. A letter to the geneticist: How is it that you manage to take a 2 week (or more) vacation right when I need your report? Just wondering.

Rough Day

This is the day that we were supposed to find out if Ruby needs surgery or not. Our care coordinator at Shriner's didn't call today. Though according to her last e-mail, she would "definitely" talk to me today if she didn't call yesterday. I called her (as she asked me to if she hadn't called me first) and left a message. She didn't call back. So much for customer service. And my patience. It's shot. It's been nearly 5 weeks since we were told that Ruby will probably need surgery. So let's get it figured out. Tell me what's going on. Ai yai yai. I don't even know her diagnosis, though we've asked. More than once. What's with the secrecy? =P

I wanted to finish mowing the lawn today. To finish SOMETHING today. But the mower went shot. So it's off to the fix-it guy for the second time in a year. Okay, less than a year. Good grief.

And my gas oven's pilot light won't stay lighted. And it also goes out when it's on and baking things. So when I bake things, I have to light the light before starting, and then I have to check obsessively to make sure that it's still on. Convenient.

And THEN, worst of all, I talked to my Mom tonight, and my Grandma is not doing well at all. My sweet Grandma's cancer has come back, and she just decided to not do any more chemo. And she's really not eating, and gets sick if she tries. We probably only have a few more weeks with her. Our Matriarch. I hate cancer. And I hate death. Hate is a strong word. And it belongs there.

The end of my depressing post.

Stories about my Kiddos...

Ruby has let me know that Isaac is her "best, best friend", but she can't marry him because they are brother and sister. Very often she forgets that they are best friends, and I try to remind her, but it doesn't always go well. =P

Recently, the above "best, best friends" were playing that Ruby was the Mommy, Isaac was the Daddy, and a baby doll was their baby. Ruby was asking to hold the baby, but Isaac had a different idea, "I love her so much I’m gonna keep holding her”. Awww...he's such a sweetie. Don't worry, Ruby got to hold the baby later. Probably soon after. 'Cause Isaac's a softie like that. ;)

At mealtime, Ruby informed me, "Jesus makes us all different. But we're all Dickerson's, so we're all crazy". This is a common theme when discussing "crazy", but the "Jesus makes us all different" is a new addition to her previous reasoning.

Yesterday, we went on a bike ride down the country road. The country road that normally has no dogs chasing us on it. =P Normally. Yesterday, there was one little ankle biter that came out with a vengeance, and the house right after that has a BIG German Shepherd that was loose and out in the road. I told David that I was going to turn around, but then I didn't. I followed that crazy man. But the dog ignored us. Whew! =P Anyways, down the road further, we saw some more loose dogs, and I told David I was not going past them. Yes, I'm a wimp. Anyways, there were some cows there, so we all got off the bikes (David had Ruby and Jadelyn on his, and I had my little man) to visit with the cows. The Jersey cow was super friendly and came right up to the fence. David and the kids spent some time picking grass for the cow and feeding it. When it came time to leave, Ruby said, "bye, cow, I love you" and then continued on to inform the poor cow that it now had to pick it's own grass. Jadelyn, who often wants to be like her big sister, said, "bye horse!" Close, Lynnie, close. ;) On the ride home, no dogs bothered us at all. Which was a HUGE blessing as that big German Shepherd lives at the top of a steep hill that David normally has to walk his bike up (hey, it's difficult peddling a bike with a kid strapped up in front of you, and a kid behind you to boot!)

On the ride home, we saw some bluebirds, which, though not unusual on that stretch of the road, is still enjoyed. Isaac was asking if that was a "bird blue". In all seriousness. Crazy man.

This morning, Ruby had an attitude problem that spanned for about an hour and a half. Most of that was spent in different consequences, trying to get a heart change. Finally, things calmed down and she could eat breakfast. At the table, before beginning eating, I saw Ruby flailing her arm around like a crazy woman. I questioned her about this, and she informed me that she wanted Satan to go away from her. Bless her sweet little heart. She was trying to swat him like a fly, I guess. ;) I reminded her that she needed Jesus to drive Satan away, so Ruby turned, prayed for Jesus to help her, and then my sweet Ruby emerged for most of the remainder of the morning. I'm so glad that Jesus loves my little gal! Stay away, now, Satan!

David was working on sharpening the mower blades this morning, and Isaac was told that he could watch after he was done with his morning checklist. Have I ever mentioned that that child is S L O W in doing his work? Well, he is. =P After he had finished his checklist and was working on his shoes, Isaac informed me that Daddy is "done with the sprinkles", aka the sparks that fly when the blades are being sharpened. =)

The kids got to spend most of the morning working/playing outside with Daddy-o, while I worked on baking up a storm since Grandma and Grandpa are coming today. Side note: it is easier to "bake up a storm" when the pilot light in the oven stays LIGHTED!!! Arrrgghhhh...hope my Chex mix is really toasted, that my bread and muffins aren't doughy, and that the granola bars are baked enough to stick together. Good grief. Okay, I'm off the subject, aren't I? =P SO! My sweet little Ruby popped in a couple times to ask, "you doin' okay?" Oh, when that girl is sweet, she is SO sweet! =)

At lunch today, the kids were talking about our trip to Florida last February. Ruby said, "we were up in Florida". Which would be an accurate statement if we lived in Cuba. Or something. I'm not up on my geography. =O Also, why in the world do my kids remember such random things? I guess when we were down there, they went on a bike ride with Uncle Mark and Jacob and ate some food, but they didn't have anything to clean up with, so when they came back to Grandma's house they had food all over their faces that I asked them about. Why is that a pertinent memory, anyhow? Just wondering.

Just before naptime, Ruby was decked out in my over-sized sunglasses with a nasal aspirator up her nose. Which reminded me that though I had STARTED organizing that shelf in the bathroom closet, I had not COMPLETED my job. Ooops. I asked Ruby to put it away, as it wasn't a toy, to which she responded, "but, Mommy, I'm tryin' to get out the boogers!" I should've gotten a picture. That girl cracks me up.