If I Had Alzheimer’s...

Tonight at supper, we were discussing Alzheimer's, because a man and his Dad, who happens to have Alzheimer's, came by and bought one of David's dirt bikes tonight.  Anyhow, we were talking about how often people with Alzheimer's cannot live at home because it's just not safe.  Well, I can rest relieved tonight, because Jadelyn will let me live with her - no nursing home for me.  She told me that if I ever get Alzheimer's, she will lock me in my room, but she will still feed me.  I asked her if she was going to slide the food under the door.  No, she will not stoop that low (stoop - get it?  Under the door?  Stoop?  Ha.  I crack myself up.  Except I'm not laughing.  =P).  She will unscrew the door and give me my food.  I told her I might get lonely and want someone to cuddle.  I don't think she responded to that. 

So, now the vote - which is better - live in a nursing home or locked in your room at home?

Thanks, Jadelyn.  I love you, too.

Little Lynnie Loofah...

A long while ago, Jadelyn asked me if I loved her as high as the numbers go.  I assured her that I do.  She then told me that she loved me that much, and that we're alike, "except I have freckles, and you don't".  So, that's the only fundamental difference between the two of us.  =)

Last night, after being a mother for nearly 8 and a half years, I was told by sweet Jadelyn that I am the "best Mom in the world.  And the nicest and prettiest".  Yowzers.  She sure packs the punch in her compliments.  I nearly got all teary!  ;P  And that's why I had to write this compliment down for posterity - it's a compliment that I've been waiting nearly 8 1/2 years for!!!  =P  She then told me, "I'm saying that 'cause you're my Mommy".  Then she said that David is the "handsomest Daddy" in the world.  He's not the prettiest, 'cause he's a boy.  =)  Thanks, Lynnie!  Your parents love you, too.

Funny...and Embarrassing...Kids

So, Isaac got Impetigo the other week.  This kid is sure having the health issues lately.  First the flu so bad that he ends up at the ER at the beginning of last month, then Impetigo this month, and then yesterday we had another day of headache leading to throwing up.  Thankfully he was able to keep his pink medicine down...what is that called?  Oh yeah!!!  Antibiotics!!!  I KNEW it would come to me.  Anyhow, soon after he got diagnosed with Impetigo, Jadelyn was talking about if something bad happened to Isaac and he died or something (I don't remember the specifics).  Then, she let me know how bad that would be 'cause we'd have to throw away all his medicine.  Good reason to care if Isaac kicks the can, 'eh?  ;P

Then, on Sabbath, we went hiking at the Petrified Forest.  During some of the hikes, Jadelyn was singing, "Nate, in all things we are more than conquerors!!!"  I KNEW those weren't the right words, but didn't know what the right ones were because I don't know all their worship songs from their morning worship books.  =O  (For those who are wondering, Ruby came home, studied it out, and learned that it was saying "NAY, in all things we are more than conquerors!!!")  Anyhow, Jadelyn's walking/running/whatever along singing "Nate, in all things we are more than conquerors!!!!" over and over and over and over and over and well, you get the idea.  Over and over and over until we get within earshot of complete strangers.  And then her words change.  "Nate, in all things we are more than MURDERERS!"  Yes.  Twice.  Clearly.  Right by the strangers.  Lovely.  I squeezed her hand and told her "no", and she stopped.  But really?  Murderers?  JADELYN GRACE!!!!  If Mommy lives until you're the ripe age of 6, it will be incredible.  'Cause mothers sometimes die of embarrassment, right?  ;P

Today, Isaac wanted to help me sand the shelves for the schoolroom.  So he did.  Like a happy lark.  And quite thoroughly, too.  I was mucho impressed!  He's really wanting to work with Pucka in Pucka's workshop this summer...prepared for that, Dad?  ;)  Then, later, he was doing dishes, so I worked on sanding.  He came to help me when he was done with dishes, and we were talking about how we use the nice oak plywood for shelves that will be visible all the time, and how we use the other plywood for in the closet where nobody will really see 'em.  Well, he wanted to know why we don't use more "okra" wood.  =)  That WOULD be more cost effective, but I don't know how well it would hold up!

And this is me, who always means to blog about things, but forgets what she was going to blog about, signing off.  And a goodnight to all!

Snow!

Looked outside at breakfast this morning and saw it snowing!  First snow of the year for us.  So, the kids were SUPER excited, and I said they could go play for a while.  It took them quite a while to put on their snow clothes, which I don't think they've done for almost 2 years.  One way to know it's been a LONG time is that Jadelyn put on her snowpants backwards with the zipper in the back.  ;)  Anyhow, we got the tiniest, and I mean TINIEST little skim of snow.  Only in some places.  TINY amounts.  But now I have kids out back, scraping snow off boards and things to get enough to throw at each other.  Crazy little desert kids!

Singing With Jadelyn

This afternoon while Ruby and Isaac were doing dishes, I sang with Lynnie.  After a while, I had to get to work, so I moved to a different room to finish making some beds.  Jadelyn followed me, and blasted her music so I could still hear it.  I sang a little, and Jadelyn said, "Mom!!!  How can you sing so good?!?!?"  I asked her about it, and it sounded like I didn't sing as good as the people on the CD (which I don't.  At all.  Ha.)  Anyways, I said something like, "are you saying that your Mom doesn't sing as good as those people?"  And she told me no, I sing BETTER than them.  Well bless your heart, Lynnie.  Your love is clouding your judgment.  But I'll sing to you any day!  =)

Lynnie Loofah...

Yesterday, we went to Pizza Hut to claim some Book-Its.  Namely because I hadn't cooked supper.  =O  Anyhow, there are TV's at Pizza Hut.  Playing sports.  And commercials.  Neither of which my children have really watched before for any length of time.  So, there were lots of questions about basketball, and about why the gym on the TV is so much nicer than the one at the school here.  And questions about what the most dangerous sport is (we watched football during Book-It claim last month), and what the least dangerous game is.  Jadelyn asked the latter question to her Daddy.  I don't know what he said, but she came up with her own answer along these lines, "I think duck, duck goose" is the least dangerous.  A new sport is born!!!  =)  On another note, since when do restaurants need TV's blaring?  I thought going to a restaurant was supposed to be a relaxing time with your family enjoying conversation?!?!?!  Anyhow.

Then, they were enjoying some of the commercials, and then a different one came on.  Jadelyn kept watching it.  "Jadelyn, don't watch it!" Isaac exclaimed, "it's WICKED!!!"  And true enough, there were explosions and such.  Glad he knows not to watch things.  Now to teach Lyn. 

Then, last night during the getting ready for bed routine, Jadelyn came out to see me.  "Mama, I want to tell you something.  Thank you for getting me this chewy toy at Wal-Mart."  (Said with the chewy toy in hand.  And maybe partially in mouth.  I don't remember.  =O)  For you see, Jadelyn has always been a beaver.  As an infant/toddler she chewed chunks of wood out of an endtable and my piano bench.  She also shredded her crib all around the top.  She chews on her clothes and, well, on just about anything.  So, last summer, I got her a baby chewy toy.  That way if she feels the urge to chew, she can channel it in an "appropriate" manner.  Not that she does very often, but you know...it was good for the LONG van ride back from KY this summer.  ;)  Anyhow, she appreciates it.  Funny kid.

The Little Things...

Today as I was working outside, Jadelyn came to me with a painting that had a rip in the middle of it, asking if I could fix it.  I told her that I probably could, and asked her to put it on the table for me to get to when I could.  "You're the best Mom EVER!!!" she exclaimed as she went back inside.  Well, thanks, Jadelyn.  I'll tape a picture for you ANYTIME for a compliment like that!  Ha. 

Sickness and Funny Kidisms...

So, on Sabbath, I, Kim, decided that we would skip the kids' naptime and go on the hike with the school.  David was on supervision and would have to go, but I could've taken a nap.  Guess I was feeling out of the ordinary adventurous to suggest skipping naptime, 'eh?  ;)  Yeah, yeah.  They're only almost 8 and 5 1/2, but they still nap almost every day they go down, so naptime (and my quiet time) continues...=O  Anyhow, I announce my spontaneous-like decision very soon before we need to walk out the door, and I'm met by Isaac crying, saying that he has a headache and would rather take a nap.  See, when Isaac gets headaches, it often progresses to nausea and sometimes the real deal throwing up.  So, I reluctantly decided that Isaac and I would stay home (David said he'd still take the girls).  Gave Isaac some good 'ole Tylenol, which sometimes stops the nausea from happening.  Guess his headache started when we got to church, or something, and got worse when he and Jadelyn cracked heads while playing "Red Rover" after lunch.  That game is trouble waiting to happen.  I almost always felt like my wrists were going to get broken playing that game.  But, I digress.  Because Isaac was napping, I laid down on the couch to read, which lasted the approximately 10 minutes that it normally does before I feel very, verrry tired.  So, I took a nap.  Isaac woke up from his nap after only an hour.  He did not come to see me.  That was strange, but I figured he really had to go potty after drinking a cupful of water right before naptime in an effort to get his headache to go away.  I waited around 10 minutes and went to find him.  Fella was sick.  I think he had thrown up by that point.  So, we cuddled in the bathroom for 20 minutes or so.  Long enough for my posterior to become quite sore.  =P  Then, we moved the cuddle session out to the living room.  After a while, little man was fine (as he often is in situations like that.)  We continued with our evening plans as usual with no problems. 

For some reason that nobody knows, David and I forgot how old we are and stayed up 'til midnight on Sabbath.  Finally hit the hay, and shortly after, hear the pitter patter of Isaac's feet running to the bathroom.  Lovely.  He was sick.  Sick, sick, SICK.  Threw up every 30 minutes or so until 3 or 4, and then slowed to about 1 throw up an hour 'til 7.  Oh, and at some point in there it progressed to throwing up AND diarrhea.  Thankfully the worse occurrence of that happened during the hour and a half or so that David was getting up with I-see.  Also thankfully, David is strong-stomached and Isaac didn't want a new pair of jammies and just wanted to just sleep in his undies (first time in his life, I believe).  This made changing easy, since he went through 4-5 pairs of underwear that night.  Only the first time was bad.  After that, it was just a little.  He learned to sit on the potty and heave into the garbage can.  Again, thankfully, I heard him going at it, and ran into the bathroom to find him sitting on the toilet heaving into thin air.  Enter garbage can.  Life saver.  Although I don't think he was really bringing anything up by that point.  Needless to say, I did NOT get much sleep.  But, during one strange episode of sleep, I awoke to a little face at the side of my bed saying that her belly hurt.   Around 5:30am.  Ruby.  Well, it had been about 1 hour before that she woke up to come check on Isaac, who she heard throwing up from her bedroom.  I figured her belly hurt 'cause she was worried, so tried to reassure her that he was fine (for in-between throwing up, he said he felt good and would act totally normal.  Said his belly didn't feel like it normally does when he's "throw-up sick".  Yes, our family has a well-used term.  For throwing up happens around these parts a LOT.  Nobody knows why.  But it does.  =P  Poor little man.).  Anywhos.  Sometimes her belly hurts and if someone pushes on it real well it feels better.  (She's learned this from Isaac, who used to ask Ruby to sit on his belly if it felt bad).  So, I instinctively pushed on her stomach and rubbed it and told her that Isaac was okay.  She said she wasn't worried about Isaac.  And what'dya know.  She started puking soon after.  That lasted until 7am THIS morning.  Yes.  Over 24 hours.  Though really she went from like 8:45 last night 'til 5:30 this morning with no puking.  Strange thing is, she really NEVER brought anything up.  But child wanted to throw up so bad and sometimes would say "help me" as her head swung around in her sickness.  Poor girl.  Every time she'd go an hour without being sick and I'd let her have a tiny sip of water, she'd throw up about 30 minutes later (or maybe that was 30 minutes after the 2 sip time.  =O  Yes, I think that was mostly it.).  So, finally I decided I was going to have to break some rules to hydrate the child, plus I figured that maybe she was throwing up 'cause she was SO HUNGRY by that point.  Gave her ice chips and said she could have as many as she wanted and felt like she could handle.  She had almost an ice-cube tray worth of ice chips.  Then progressed to Gatorade and then broth.  She likes broth.  Couldn't handle jello at lunch time - said she started feeling a little sick when she tried it.  So, broth again.  Then she napped for 3 hours and woke up saying she felt "good" but was tired.  Ate at supper, helped clean up the house, and played hide-n-seek.  I think she's on the mend!!!  =)  This is good.

Aren't you glad you just read so much about puke?  =O

Oh, and in that puke story I forgot the cuteness.  Ruby, after throwing up and asking me to pray for her, then prayed for herself.  And for Isaac - that he wouldn't get sick again.  And Isaac reported that he prayed for Ruby when he heard her puking in the other bathroom.  Seriously, I had one kid camped out in one bathroom, and one in the other bathroom.  There were times I would be talking to one of them after they were done being sick, and I'd have to cut it short 'cause I'd hear the other one at it in the other bathroom.  And during this my belly started not feeling great and I had one end of the sickness (=P).  I was thinking we might really regret not having the 3rd bathroom completed, but all worked out.  =P  Oh, and then David took Jadelyn to work with him on Sunday morning for a few hours so I could get some sleep and such, and when he brought her back, she just quietly colored in the living room, looked at a book or so in her room and then colored on a dry erase board in Isaac's room.  Was all great 'til I found 4 different places this morning that dry erase marker made it on to Isaac's carpet.  =P  That's still a work in process to get it out - any suggestions?  =P  OH!  And at one point, I came out and gave Jadelyn a run-down on her siblings situation.  "I don't care" she told me, "I just like to color."  Ai yai yai.  =P

We got our first hard frost last night, so Isaac and I went out and picked all the tomatoes and tomatillas we wanted to salvage.  4 of our 5 kitchen window sills are now full of tomatoes at different stage of ripening.  When Jadelyn saw all those tomatoes, she said that there were so many tomatoes, "I can't believe my eyes -- I'm about to hit my eyes!"  Okay, then!!!

Another time, something was so funny that Jadelyn exclaimed, "I'm about to laugh my feet off!!!"  Versus "head off", I'm guessing.  ;)

And then she said that Isaac "cracked me up so much I'm about to die!"

There was another good one that Ruby and I overheard from the living room, but I don't remember it.  It gave us a good smile, though.  That Lynnie.

At lunch today, I was telling the kids how Thanksgiving is coming soon and telling them what's on the menu.  Jadelyn didn't want me to "ruin our surprise", but I did anyways.  Isaac was reminiscing to 3 years ago when we had the relish tray on the table and how he wants to do that again.  Funny guy.  I was telling them how I use Gram's recipe for dip, but mine is never as good as hers.  Isaac then said that maybe Gram has a sprayer machine that is a little cone with a hole in the end.  Once she mixes up the ingredients it sprays in a little something extra to make it so delicious.  Must be!!!  My dip never tastes like hers!!!

And tonight, when I was tucking Isaac in to bed, he told me, "I have to talk to you."  He often talks at bedtime.  And talks and talks and talks, even as we shut the door.  So, I figured he was just buying time before he had to be quiet for the night and go to sleep.  But nope.  He really had something on his heart.  So, back to the story.  "I have to talk to you", he says.  I asked what about?  "My brain".  Period.  Pause.  Oh...hmmmm...this could be interesting.  Then, he tells me that his brain tells him things and he thinks and thinks about it.  Then he plays and forgets, but then he stops playing and remembers.  And he needs to tell me.  His brain tells him to pray a lot 'cause Jesus is coming soon.  And he wants to go to heaven.  And he needs to tell this to Jadelyn, and Ruby, and me, and Daddy, 'cause he wants us to pray a lot and go to heaven, too.  Sweet man.  I asked him if his brain tells him that he should stop aggravating his sisters.  Nope, his brain hasn't sent that message yet.  ;)

OH!!!  And on Sabbath night, I taught Ruby how to add and subtract up to 4 places with borrowing and carrying and all that, and she thinks it's so fun she wrote some of her own problems to work.  I love planting messages like, "Math is fun!!!"  Yeah, I think I totally told her that.  ;)

We were supposed to claim their Book-It Pizzas tonight, but with the sickness I thought we'd better hold off.  Hopefully soon.  We're partying this week.  More on that on Thursday, maybe...;)

Oh, yes!!!  The other day, we were running late for story time and I was tired out.  I told Ruby that the other day, Isaac read to me, but I didn't read to him, and I read to her that day, so on this day, she was going to read to me, but I wasn't going to read to her.  She left the room to get her book.  "You broke her heart!!!" Isaac exclaimed.  Sure enough, Ruby re-entered the room with the saddest face and quiet tears.  Then Isaac, my sweet fella, pipes up something like, "Ruby, you can have my story and I just won't have mine."  This is a big deal, for Isaac has been working his way through a library book about elephants and really treasures his story time.  It was the sweetest cheer-up message.  I told Ruby she should give him a hug, so she got down of the chair, went over, and hugged and kissed her favorite twin brother.  Then, Jadelyn pipes in something like, "Isaac, I'll pick the elephant story so you can hear it."  So, Isaac went and hugged his little sister and everyone was happy.  Until I didn't read the elephant book to them because they weren't present when they were supposed to be.  But that would ruin the happy feel-good story, yes?  ;P

OH!!!!  (Again...=O)  Tonight, we played hide-n-seek.  When I was "it" the second time, I walked around singing about where my lost children were and I needed to find 'em.  And then, Isaac was "it" next and he started by walking around singing the same song, except for his song was about his lost "girls" and where is his Mommy.  =)  Funny guy.  And after I shut the door on him when saying goodnight tonight, he sang a quick "Goodnight, little Mommy, goodnight" to the closed door.  Earlier he was singing his own composition that I really need to get on video, "1, you know I'm coooomiiinnng!!!  2, you know I'm cooommming!!!  3, you know I'm coooomingg!!!" and on and on.  About the second coming, of course.  Maybe his brain was thinking about what it's been thinking about lately.  Jesus loves you, my I-see.  He wants to be your very best friend.  Keep using that brain. 

Paper and Conversational Gems. Courtesy of my Daughters.

Found a little slip of paper laying around the other day.  That is not out of the ordinary.  With these three kiddos in the house, there are OFTEN little pieces of paper laying around.  I picked up the piece of paper and read it.  It was kinda funny.  I showed it to David.  He told me that Ruby had given the paper to a student who had been at our house earlier that day.  See, Ruby likes to give "love tokens" and has since she was 5 or so.  Used to be little tiny pieces of paper that she had colored and cut out.  Now they are often a full paper with a picture drawn on it and "I love you so much" written on the back.  But this time, Ruby had chosen to write down the first few sentences from a book and hand it to a poor unsuspecting student.  Can you imagine what he thought when he read his "love token"?  It read, "Has your head been itching all day?  You may have head lice.  Lots of children get head lice."  HA!!!  Ruby, you CRACK ME UP!!!  =)

Yesterday was my birthday.  I was greeted first thing by Ruby telling me "Happy Birthday!" and shoving my very own "love token" at me.  Well, she later informed me it was a card.  Anyways, there was a picture on the front.  She told me what it was.  Alpine (our kitty), a male lion, Hickory (our dog), a sad Ruby because the octopus died, and an octopus.  What a random card!  She had a sweet message written on the back, too: "Happy birthday Mommyyyyyyyy!!  Love, Ruby.  I love you."  She then told me that she wrote so many "y's" because she didn't know what else to write to fill up the space.  Funny monkey. 

Ruby and Jadelyn were having a conversation the other day when Jadelyn busted out with this statement: "Mommy loves me the best 'cause I'm the youngest".  Oh, really?  Hadn't heard that one before.  Well, I'm glad to know that she feels loved.  Who knew the youngest sibling birth-order-thing started so young?!?!?!

Okay, MUST MAKE LUNCH!!!

Morbid Lunchtime Conversations

So, the other day during lunchtime, somehow the term "biology" came up, so the kids and I started discussing how biology is the study of life.  Then I started sharing stories of my time in biology class with Mr. Haus, and how he had us studying birds, and how we had to disect things.  Okay, Hughes did the disecting, but I was proud of my weak-stomached-self for holding a frog eyeball in my gloved hands.  =O  Then, we were talking about how in A&P, Mr. Carter had them disecting cats, and how I did NOT take that class.  Then we got to talking about where those animals that got disected came from.  THEN we started talking about how medical people learn lots of things from disecting animals and cadavers.  And then there was talk about how you could be an organ donor, donate your body to science, get cremated, or get buried.  And the kids were talking about what they would want done with their bodies.  Well, I think mostly the girls were.  I'm not sure what Isaac was doing.  Eating, perhaps?  =O  Anyways, then Ruby was talking about a funeral they went to (someone from David's nursing home), and how the man's eyes were closed.  I told them that they make sure the dead person's eyes are closed, and the kids wanted to know why.  I told them it would be a bit disturbing to go up to see your beloved and have them "staring" back at you.  And then they wanted to know how the eyes stayed closed.  Jadelyn had an idea - "maybe they put glue on the colored part of your eyes and then slam them closed".  Lovely.  I believe I ended the conversation there.  =P

Oh!  I KNEW there was something else!  And not morbid, even!  =O  Jadelyn started reading yesterday!  In fact, she nearly finished a 50+ page book with Isaac's help.  She's not keen on sounding out words, at ALL, but she learns sight words QUICK so off she went.  It's so great to see my little man in the role of reading coach.  He's quite good at it and nice and patient, and it's SO GOOD for his confidence and practice.  Just a proud moment, you know.  ;)

Okay, back to work!

Quick Note...

So, I've been missing for a long time.  Kidney stone surgery and recovery (1 cm by 6mm MONSTER, doc said it probably had been growing for a year to get to be that size =O), falling and hurting my shoulder real bad, etc., etc.  I'm probably 95% cured now.  MRI said fractured shoulder, orthopedic doctor said no fracture, just a bad MRI and a badly bruised bone.  Shoulder has been a bit achy the past few days, but you know.  I've been back to painting and caulking and cleaning and life is good.  =)  There's my update.  Now you know.

There's been several times that things happen and I think I need to write about it, but alas, I didn't.  So trying to get back on the blogging bandwagon again.  =O

Today, the kids and I were talking about a student who broke his collarbone.  He has to keep his arm in a sling for a couple weeks, and I was commenting that I hope it's not his dominant arm.  Jadelyn then was talking about how rough it would be if his "coloring bone" was broken, and how he would color messy and out of the lines.  Funny kid.  =)

After a sweet tuck-in session with Isaac tonight (his favorite bedtime song is "Away in a Manger" lately...I think 'cause it's the song he thinks is the longest, and he likes his back scratched on his bare back for as long as he can), he told me that he is going to invent a machine that will scratch backs and sing songs.  He just might knock it out of the park with a machine like that!

And then, I was singing to Ruby (also "Away in a Manger" tonight), and she was grinning like a silly loon.  A kind silly loon.  Today we focused on kindness.  She made treasure hunts for all of us.  Most of the messages spell out "I love you so much." when put together.  What a sweet little color-coded-treasure-hunt-maker!  And she shared a cheese "puff" with Lynnie at lunch and water with Lynnie in the van.  Sometimes she really struggles with being kind.  Tonight she said, "I like being kind."  I like it too, Ruby.  Love you to loves.

Night night!

Holding Her Breath.

Ruby has had lots of fun lately seeing how long she can hold her breath.  She even roped me into having several contests with her the other day to see who could hold their breath the longest.  And I was afraid a time or two that she'd actually beat me!  =O

Last night at supper, somehow the topic of Ruby's surgery/hospitalizations came up.  Oh, I remember now!  They were talking about motorized cars, and Ruby was saying that she got to drive one on the way back to her first surgery.  That was crazy.  Drug the child up and put her behind a wheel.  Bad, bad combination.  =P  Jadelyn was reminding us (as she seems to always do when the topic arises) that she and Isaac threw up in Gram's car when they were coming to visit Ruby and I at the hospital.  Isaac added in that Gram gave him a bag to throw up in, but he missed.  And Jadelyn was talking about wiping up with baby wipes.  Bless you, Mom.  All I remember was that you called and said you weren't going to make it 'cause they both got sick.  And you were all upbeat sounding.  Wowzers.  Anyways, back to the point of the story.  So, we were talking about the laughing juice or whatever they gave Ruby before surgery that made her loopy the first time, but didn't work the second time.  Ruby said that she knew the pain that was coming was going to be bad, and so she just didn't get giddy.  She screamed all the way back to the room.  SCREAMED as they took her away.  Last night, Ruby told us that she tried to hold her breath when they put the mask on her, but it didn't work because she'd been crying, so she was gulping air during her sniffs and stuff.  And for some reason, I got all teary.  I almost thought I should excuse myself from the table and come back to my room and have a good cry.  My poor baby girl, all alone, scared out of her mind, trying to hold her breath.  Silly, I realize, but that's how I felt.  I talked to her about it later.  How I was sad that she was so scared and that I wasn't there with her (they don't let parent's back for anesthesia where we went).  Ruby, ever the practical one, told me that it wouldn't have done any good if I WAS back there.  She was just scared of hurting.  So, independent Ruby, thanks for not needing me.  Now I can erase that guilt.  Right?  ;)

SPIDERS!!!!

So, lately Jadelyn has decided that she is terrified of spiders.  Terrified.  Can't stand in a corner if it happens to be inhabited by a "baby Daddy Long-legs" like yesterday (or was it the day before?!?!?!  =P)  Can't go to the bathroom in the Master bath, 'cause she's sure there are more spiders in there than in the main bath.  I don't believe that's true.  Tonight, she couldn't get in the bath because there's a little tiny "Daddy long-legs" in the corner of the bath (the bathtub, by the way is HUGE.  And diagonal.  So she's really far away from that itsy bitsy spider.)  I told her that I wanted her to pretend that she is friends with the spider and just take a bath.  I asked her if she thought the spider would want in the water.  "No".  I told her that's right, the spider would drown, and the spider doesn't want to drown.  "But what if he doesn't think good?" she asked.  Ai yai yai.  Anyhow, she happily took a bath, and just recently got out.  I was informed that the "spider was smart", I believe were the words.  It stayed out of the water.  Good spider.  We can all be friends now.  'Till next time....=P

Today we were gifted a baby dove by Mr. Bruce.  A little tiny thing.  Will be a miracle if it makes it.  Then, tonight, David and the kids went to rescue a raven that was hit by a car or something and was by the side of the road for hours.  They came home with their captive, which apparently had a broken leg.  Came inside to find a box for it, and when they went back outside, it was dead.  We are not good bird rehabilitators.  But I'm glad David and the kids are so caring.  Me?  I'm messed in the head and keep trucking with my housework.  =P

Okay, I'm beat.  Kidneys were starting to hurt.  Ultrasound tech guy told me last Friday that I have a 3mm stone in the right kidney and a 4mm stone in the left.  Lovely.  Explains the off and on kidney pain I've had since the beginning of April.  Doctor's office still hasn't reviewed the ultrasound report, so I'm still not officially informed as to what is going on.  Good thing ultrasound man told me, so I've been drinking about 9 cups of water a day, 2-3 cups of cranberry juice a day, and a cup of kidney detox tea.  And sometimes some "breathe easy" tea, since I'm stuffed up.  Oh, the joys!  =)  Glad it's just stones.  Glad it's just stones.

Well, that was about more than spiders, wasn't it?  =O

Jadelyn.

The other day, Jadelyn was talking about the "Mourning doves" here and I told her I wasn't sure they were really mourning doves or not.  Sitting on the floor in the kitchen, she quietly replied that maybe they're something else.  Like "night doves". 

The other night, I went in to pray with Jadelyn and kiss her before she went to sleep.  She hugged me and prayed something like, "Dear Jesus, thank you that Mommy's here!"  I love you, too, Lynnie.  Even when you sure don't like me.  =P  Today was a rough day in the Jadelyn (okay, ALL children) department, so I figured I'd better write down a time she appreciated me!  For sanity sake, you know.  =P

2011 Facebook Updates....

January 1, 2011 - Hickory is out of "intensive care" and downgraded to "hospitalization". Whoo-hoo!!! We MAY be able to get him tomorrow....if he keeps keeping his food down. Thank you all SO MUCH for the prayers for our little puppy!

January 2, 2011 - was wondering where all the 18 month jammies were when I went looking for them for Jadelyn to wear. I figured we just didn't have many, because Ruby and Isaac slept in onesies around that size. Well, I found out today where they are. Any guesses? Yup, Ruby's still wearing 'em. At age 4. Well, she's gonna have to start sharing with her baby sister...

January 3, 2011 - Hickory is HOME!!! And spunky as all get out. We are so very thankful. The kids have so far handled his energy with much more patience than the past. We'll see how long that lasts...

January 3, 2011 - today Ruby wanted to pray for Jadelyn after a hitting/screaming tantrum. The prayer went something like this (it's been a while, and it's been a rough day, so my brain is EXTRA fried), "Dear Jesus, Please help Jadelyn give her temper away. Help her to give it to you, 'cause you're the best one. We love you Jesus. Amen." May she give it away SOON, Ruby!

January 6, 2011 - just wonders is anyone else's four-year-olds ask you to read them nutritional information about what they are consuming. Lettuce, cauliflower, broccoli, sunflower seeds, rice, tomatoes, etc., etc., etc. My kids are turning out to be nerds like their Mom. =O RUN FOR THE HILLS!!!  We have a book with the nutritional information on many things, and the kids listen with rapt attention as I spout off what vitamins are in what. They LOVE their vitamins! (And this handy dandy book - along with a reminder that Uncle William eats spinach smoothies - has convinced Isaac (on one occasion, at least) to gobble down his spinach like a turkey. Get it? Turkey? Gobble, gobble? Oh, I digress...=P)

January 6, 2011 - has two happy as a lark four-year-olds cleaning mud from their boots with vinegar water and rags and a happy-as-a-lark 18-month-old who signs "eat" whenever she sees a picture of food. Guess I should have tried these entertainments this morning when they were anything BUT "happy-as-a-lark". 

January 6, 2011 - haircut notables by Isaac Dickerson: (kinda laughingly) "I shoulda been a girl, 'cause then I wouldn't have to get my hair cut as much" and he can tell his hair doesn't have a brain, 'cause it doesn't move. But he can move his hair. His hair just can't move itself. Or something like that. I mean, this happened like 10 minutes ago, and you expect me to remember?!?!?

January 6, 2011 - was listening to the youngest toilet seat up or down argument that I've ever heard. The battle apparently starts at 4 years-old. At least in this house.

January 7, 2011 - absolutely LOVES that Jadelyn learned to ask for kisses today. Gunk on the head? Walk to Mommy with funny fish puckers, and all the hurt goes away. I love being a hero. 

January 8, 2011 - Isaac apparently REALLY likes Jadelyn's hair in pigtails. The other day, he commented that it looked really nice, and today, he told her that she was "handsome". I love that little fella!

January 9, 2011 - is raising the youngest stalker ever. Isaac wants to go to the propane guys' house to ask them how they fill up their truck with propane. I said that I don't know where they live. Isaac's response? "We can follow them when they come to give us gas". Great.

January 10, 2011 - this morning, Isaac decided to get dressed in the living room instead of his bedroom because there was something "scary" in his room. Upon questioning, I learned that he did not see or hear anything scary. "I just felt it with my ears". Interesting. 

January 10, 2011 - Tonight, there was much loud, frantic screaming coming from the back bedroom. Culprit? Ruby Jean. Reason? Her nose was bleeding. Why? She ran into the wall, because she didn't "realize" it was there. Or didn't "realize" that her nose was bleeding. Or something. Is it bad that I had a hard time not laughing at my hysterical bloody-nosed daughter? Gotta watch out for them walls.  Don't worry, I asked her if she was crying because she was hurt or scared - when she first said she ran into the wall, I thought maybe she broke her nose or something. Nope. Just scared...

January 13, 2011 - had a cuddly naptime on the couch with Jadelyn this morning. Anyone want to guess what Jadelyn wanted to cuddle with? Cracked me up. - "The Desire of Ages"

January 14, 2011 - enjoyed the conversation between Ruby and Isaac about Isaac's baby's surgery. Apparently the little booger swallowed a bunny. Ruby was very thorough in her questioning, and it seems the baby has fur around it's mouth. Also, prayer was had about the baby. And Ruby and Isaac were holding hands while walking and talking animatedly about it. Love it! 

January 17, 2011 - this morning when getting the kids up, Isaac informed me that he had a "scary" dream. A chicken came and told him that a tornado storm was coming. Yeah, the talking chicken would scare me, too! =O Oh, and then the tornado took out the chicken shed, but the chickens were okay - they hid with us. 

January 17, 2011 - i miss Kim who must still be logged onto this work laptop of mine. Love you Buddy! -David

January 17, 2011 - had surgery done on myself tonight by Dr. "Clumsey" and Dr. "Clumsey". Doesn't do much to inspire the confidence of the patient, huh? =O Ruby says they're married, Isaac says they're twins. I certainly hope they're not BOTH...=O

January 18, 2011 - is KNOWING that David is thinking of her and hacking into her facebook again! now david will logout so he can make a facebook page for The Rock! Love you honey!!! -davidickerson

January 18, 2011 - really needs to find tights that will stay on Ruby. (She's super skinny and Wal-Mart is failing us - yes, I'm cheap). Any suggestions?

January 18, 2011 - is quite sure that I just heard a mouse scratching around - WHERE IS DAVID WHEN I NEED HIM?!?!?!?! Yikes. I'm such a wimp.  We had a mouse in our first house. David caught it with a live trap, and then when I went to work that evening, let it go to see if our new kitten would catch it - it didn't. =P Then, in our house in Arkansas, there was a mouse that ran through the kitchen while I was in there. I was sitting on the chair with my feet up screaming for David. =) THEN there as a mouse under the painting plastic the previous renters had there, and I left the house while David disposed of it by dropping a paint can on it. Yuck. Oh, and then he caught some in traps, too. When I heard the traps go off, I wouldn't go out in that part of the house until David took care of them (at least I would attempt not to...) Yeah. That house was a DUMP when we moved in. And OLD and yeah, apparently there was lots of ways for mice to get in. Or at least one good way that we didn't block up. =P Then there was the mouse in Cicero that scared Ruby so bad that she screamed and screamed and screamed about how there was something that looked like a dog, only it wasn't a dog and it was looking at her and moving it's head or something. Yeah. The people who lived HERE before us said there was no mice, but we shall see. =P What in the world is it about mice that's so scary, anyways? I don't know, but I have the fear!

January 18, 2011 - is exhausted and bummed that David won't be home tonight like we thought. Tracy, I just don't know how you do it. You are a much better woman than I! (And this is only the second day/night he's been gone...) 

January 20, 2011 - cannot believe how emotionally wiped I am after being at the doctor's office for over 2 hours this morning. Ruby's shots really hurt her, and she is having a hard time walking. Good thing the kids were champs, or I'd be MORE wiped! Now to go visit a "eye doctor" for Ruby and Isaac, a "foot doctor" for Isaac, a "hip doctor" for Ruby, and an "exercise doctor" for both. Moving stinks.

January 21, 2011 - loves days when the kids are friends. They've had a lot of those days this week. That is good.  Today, Isaac was helping Ruby out in any way he could - making her bed, putting her jammies in the dirty laundry, getting and putting away markers/crayons, helping her up on her bed when she needed to go for a "break", etc., etc., etc. because Ruby "hurts so bad" (Isaac's words, I believe) from her shots yesterday. That child is limping and grimacing and has a fever. =( Probably didn't help that she was trying to kick her SERIOUSLY SKINNY LEG when getting her shots. =P Crazy gal.  Oh! I forgot to mention that he drew her a sweet-lookin' "picture" (aka random colors spread around on a sheet of paper). Of course, she asked him to draw it because she felt bad. Ha. Guess she knows how to ask what she wants! =P

January 26, 2011 - spent some fun time outside today. Isaac's been wanting to build a snowman for MONTHS, but the snow is never right. Today, it was! So, we built that long-desired snowman. Let me rephrase. I built the snowman, while Isaac and Ruby rolled random snowballs and Jadelyn added strange tumor bumps to the snowman. Isaac did put on the nose and eyes, though, and with the strange tumor bumps...well, we can say it was a team project!!!  Oh, and a side note...we had to lock Hickory up while building the snowman, 'cause he was so excited he couldn't keep himself from biting. When we let him out again, he barked and barked and barked and barked and...well, you get the idea...at the snowman. Well, not directly AT it, but I'm pretty sure that's what was going on. Good thing he got over it. I thought for a while that I might have to knock the thing down so he would quit barking. =O And my snowpants need to be waterproofed. Yup.

January 27, 2011 - well, Isaac sure knows how to get out of having his immunizations! Last week he had a fever, and today we had to cancel the appointment 'cause he threw up last night. Sure hope he gets over this soon so we can ENJOY Florida!!! Poor fella...

January 28, 2011 - wonders where I have gone. You know, the perfectionistic clean-freak. I spent all morning cleaning (oh, guess I still AM a clean-freak), but then when Ruby and I were out hauling wood, Isaac and Jadelyn were in their snowsuits stomping through, and kneeling in, the big mud puddle in front of the house.  Then, it was time to go in (to eat lunch and wash those nasty snowsuits), and in a final moment of glory, Jadelyn fell down and couldn't get up. Gallant Isaac went to rescue her, but she fell down on her side. Oh, well. (That's the part of me that I'm not used to - the "oh, well Kim". I kinda like her. =D) So, does anyone know where mud suits are sold? I kinda need a few...

February 8, 2011 - has a crazy toddler who laid face-down in the snow today to eat it. She would sometimes get up for air, and then go right back at it. Happy all the time. Crazy kid.

February 9, 2011 - is glad that the kids all took a break from their incessant meltdowns today while at Wal-Mart. And PART of the doctor's visit. Oh, may they all take a nice, LONG nap...

February 10, 2011 - last night, David went to get the eggs from the chicken shed, and two dogs were in our yard. One has come by several times before, and seems like a nice dog. Anyways, they were about 30 feet or so away. Then, one of them started circling quietly behind David, and he thought, "that's like what wolves do". And when he turned around, the white dog was about 4 feet behind him baring his teeth and growling. Crazy David said he felt like it was as dream, but then realized it was real life and he should probably do something, so he yelled as loud as he could, and dog went away. Hope that dog

February 10, 2011 - really despises insurance. Well, I mean, I like it and all (so I don't go broke =P) but I wish that I didn't have to go broke if I went to an out-of-network provider. 2 of the 3 doctors I was referred to are out-of-network, so I gotta try to find ones that are IN network to get referred to and then wait and wait to get an appointment. Wish I would've checked on the "in-network" thing like a month ago...

February 11, 2011 - is this day over yet? 

February 13, 2011 - was helping David organize the barn tonight. It came to an end because it was too late. However, the nail poking through my shoe and the skeleton-still-covered-with-skin-RAT didn't help my desire to stay longer. Gross.

February 14, 2011 - legs were briefly turned into a slide much to the amusement of three little kiddos. Crazy kids.

February 15, 2011 - is SO glad that I don't have to bring the kids back to the opthamologist for another year. Don't need or want to repeat the day's drama for a long, LONG time...

February 23, 2011 - is taking a break from Facebook (can't tell, 'eh? =P), but thought I'd get on to post a quick update from our incredibly LONG doctor's visit today. Ruby's hips are a bit further out than they should be and have to continue to be monitored. The x-rays from last summer weren't at the new doctor's yet, but when they come in, they are going to compare them and see if things are looking worse or the same.

February 28, 2011 - no longer has a peaceful bubbling creek, but a mad torrent of a raging river. Good thing I slipped in yesterday when it was still a peaceful bubbling creek instead of today! =O

March 3, 2011 - WHY DOES THAT CRITTER INSIST ON SCRATCHING AROUND IN MY BEDROOM WALL/CEILING?!?!?! Kept me awake for about an hour in the middle of the night last night (Well, morning, but you get the idea...) and it's going at it already. RAHHHHHH!!!

March 8, 2011 - enjoyed listening to a conversation that Ruby was having with her Grandma today. My favorite part? When Grandma pointed out that Ruby had two nostrils and asked what she used them for. Ruby answered, "to get boogers out of my nose". Crazy gal.

March 14, 2011 - the other day while outside, I heard Isaac making a very displeased noise about the dog. Checking on him, I found Isaac trying to lick Hickory. Why? Because "HE licked ME!" Must admit, I've never had that urge.

March 14, 2011 - farewell, my beloved broom. Thank you for your long service. And thank you for your final sacrifice - saving me from that little, baby cricket.

March 22, 2011 - This morning, the kids were discussing tornados. Since it's spring, Isaac thinks we're going to get a tornado almost every day. Anyways, they have different concerns about a tornado. Ruby wanted to know how she could grow up and get married if she got crashed in a tornado storm, and Isaac? Well, he wanted to know how he could get food to eat.

March 24, 2011 - oh beloved naptime...thank you for finally coming today. And lasting long enough that my children woke up happy.

March 27, 2011 - has a new nephew as of Friday. Eric Walter Verbrigghe, and he's a cutie!!! Way to go, Mark and Aliya! (I figured I could finally post this since you put pictures up now....=D)

March 27, 2011 - Ruby: "where's my pencil?" David: "I don't know. Am I your pencil's keeper?" Ruby: "yeah". David gives Ruby the pencil. Push-over.

March 27, 2011 - finally finished making a bib for Jadelyn...her last bib was biting the dust. Never made one of these before. Hope this thing lasts - it took forever! (like 3 hours. Good grief.)

March 28, 2011 - everyone has a different motivation for hiking. You know...to see what's around the next bend, get exercise, etc. Isaac's? To get to the next bench so he could sit down. And later, so he could eat. See, everyone's motivation is different! 

March 29, 2011 - FINALLY has supplies for the greenhouse, which I was supposed to have planted in over a month ago. =O Oh, well. Watch out. This is gonna be one AWESOME greenhouse. 

March 30, 2011 - Ruby and Isaac are being "missionaries" today by singing in the bathroom. I'd like these missionaries to visit me every day! 

March 30, 2011 - doctor was finally able to compare Ruby's hip x-ray from last June with the one taken this February. There is not any change (which is good), but there is some "uncoverage of the femural head" which may require surgery sometime in the future (which is bad). Anyways, it's good to know what's up! We've been trying to get those x-rays compared for just over a month. Yikes.

March 30, 2011 - is VERY thankful for those who share their knowledge and TIME with a intimidated Mom. Thanks, Francie!!! (Hey, I'm all high-tech now...that's the first time I've put a hyperlink in. Is that called a hyperlink? =O)

March 31, 2011 - heard what I believe to be Jadelyn's first prayer by herself. She was sitting on the couch, folded her hands and said, "thank you today. Maymen." Precious!

April 1, 2011 - The kids and I were talking about what we were going to grow in our garden, and I mentioned "basil". Isaac said something like, "we need to grow bagels in our garden, 'cause Ruby and Isaac like bagels". So...any ideas where to get bagel seeds? 

April 2, 2011 - was visited by the Amish neighbor man a little bit ago. He apparently found a pile of mail in and around the creek near our house, and brought our water bill to us. Guess someone is stealing people's mail and looking for money or something. Wonder how many bills I've missed. Lovely. "No, honestly, I never got the bill!" Or "no, honestly, I've never had a credit card with your company". Yikes.

April 3, 2011 - has FINALLY completed phase 1 of operation Greenhouse. Hoping to complete phases 2, 3, and FINITO today.

April 4, 2011 - dog tore up one side of our greenhouse this morning. So today, we went and bought new plastic...and a chain for the dog. Why do I feel so guilty about putting him on a chain?

April 4, 2011 - dog escaped from his chain and eventually from his fence, too. (I chained him up inside his fenced enclosure for double security. Ha ha.) Where did I find him? Over by the recovered greenhouse! RAH! That dog is an escape ARTIST!!! In other news, I just about finished up getting my seeds ordered. Yee-haw! Bring on the garden season!!! 

April 4, 2011 - kids are terrified of tornado storms. Nearly every time they hear thunder, they want me to check the weather to see if there is a tornado. I told them that they were "storm watchers". Ruby said they weren't. They are "storm hearers". Ooooh.

April 5, 2011 - wants to know who can pony up $800 per week for Physical Therapy appointments? I've been on the phone and on the phone and on the phone and there appears to be no alternative in sight. Well...I can drive like 55 miles one way to therapy. Might have to do that. RATS!

April 7, 2011 - is lovin' this weather, and my kids are too...it's showing in their MUCH improved attitudes. Guess I should've moved further south so we could have nice weather even MORE often. Ha. 
April 13, 2011 - Ruby told me at supper tonight that I "hooked her up" because she liked the food. Too bad she hardly ate any. 

April 14, 2011 - asked Jadelyn the other day if she was "poopie". (Yeah, nice term, I know...) Her response? "No. [I] Lynnie".

April 15, 2011 - it's a pretty well-known fact that Isaac often "kisses the ground" that Ruby walks on, and at lunch today, he took that a bit further - kissing her actual feet. Gross.

April 15, 2011 - got a phone call from the CFO of the hospital we're trying to get Physical Therapy through in response to a letter I sent out 2 days ago. That's right, hospital, you've unleashed the Mama Bear! Watch out! Yeah, whatever...I'm just trying to act tough

April 17, 2011 - has a true country gal in Lynnie. Today, she was sitting sideways in the dog house, all decked out in her mud boots, with the dog climbing on her. Both were eating (or at least tasting) dog food. Then, when I made her stop that, she came and pretended to sleep in the straw that I'm mulching the strawberries with. I love that little gal!

 

April 18, 2011 - Jadelyn was trying to get by Hickory today, and instead of the usual "no!" or "down!"; today, it was "'scuse me!"

 

April 19, 2011 - can't decide if it's disturbing or a good thing that my kids are so into trapping mice in the chicken shed. Oh, and what is it that makes dog food so delicious? We had a picnic tonight, and when we were done (and therefore should be full), I'm pretty sure that Jadelyn helped herself to some dog food. (Was watching out the window. Daddy was on duty. =D)

April 20, 2011 - talked to Mr. CFO man. I don't think we'll be able to afford going there, still, but I'm glad to know they do have some programs (we just probably won't qualify) and that they were willing to talk to me. Now to find some AFFORDABLE Physical Therapy...

April 21, 2011 - was practicing piano this morning. My little fella climbed up next to me and was singing softly as I played. Then, he put the play stethoscope backwards on me, stood behind me, and sang into the stethoscope, so his sweet little voice was singing right into my ears. Must admit...I practiced extra long today...

April 22, 2011 - wonders if it's a bad thing that I was looking at the clock and counting down 'til I could go to bed. And it was only 9:20am. Oh, dear...

April 24, 2011 - yesterday, Isaac wanted up on the bed, but forgot to use the word "please" in his request. When reminded of this fact, Isaac replied, "what's please?" (or something to that effect) in a very innocent tone. Oh, boy....does he have amnesia or something? =O

April 24, 2011 - David came in from burying the dead mice collection (yes, we had one =P) with the kids and informed me that Ruby is his hero. She moved 10 decomposing mice by the tail into the hole dug for them (with plastic gloves, and held at arm's length because they stunk). Sure didn't get that ability or desire from me! =O

April 25, 2011 - took Ruby and Isaac to registration for HeadStart today in hopes they can get Physical Therapy through them. We sat down at the first table, and the lady said something like, "so, you're all 4?" To which Ruby replied that she and Isaac were, "but Jadelyn's 1, and Daddy's 33, and Mommy's 30". No, Daddy wasn't even present, and yes, the lady was surprised. 

April 25, 2011 - wonders what is so very therapeutic about mowing the lawn with ear protectors and no young children. Ahhhh........

April 26, 2011 - just finished copying and pasting 593 pages of my Facebook profile into word so I can actually save the memories I've written down over the past several years. Took a while, and now I have to clean it up, but we'll get there someday! 

April 28, 2011 - wonders what has gotten into Ruby's system in the past few months...and how to get it OUT of her system....sigh....

April 29, 2011 - My voice of authority is failing me. That or the neighborhood dog that has chosen to come visit today is DUMB or deaf. He better just stinkin' leave my clothes on the clothesline. Peein' in my flower garden, and wagging his tail at me when I'm talking authoritatively and passively swinging a mop at him? Go home, dog!

May 2, 2011 - was mowin' in the rain with my I-see. Our yard now looks like a mud pit, but oh well. Can't rain on our parade!

May 2, 2011 - ai yai, yai. I just did some math on PT costs. (Do I sound obsessed or what? =P) Anyways, they wanted to charge us $41,600 per year for Ruby and Isaac to have one hour-long PT session per week. I looked at the average pay of PT's around here, and if we were only to pay for the PT and not overhead and such, our cost would be $3679.52 based on the highest average salary I found...

May 3, 2011 - David was singing "all we need is love", and Ruby just came over and whispered to me, "Daddy's crazy. He said all we need is love, but we" need more than that. I asked her what else she needed, and she said "we need energy". True that.

May 3, 2011 -  we got down to only having to pay 15% of the PT bills...still at $60 per hour or $120 per week. Almost double the amount that a PT in our area makes. Well, at least I finally have my answer! And it's a lot less than $800 per week. 

May 5, 2011 - gave in and went ahead and started tilling the mud pit...hoping the air/sunshine mix will help it dry out. This tiller is quicker than the old one, but still HEAVY as all get-out. Where's my Dad's old Kubota when you need it, anyways? 

May 5, 2011 - : apparently Jadelyn talks in her sleep. I just heard "Mommy!" coming from her room two times (a few minutes apart), so went to get her. She is sound asleep. Crazy thing is we just found Isaac sleep-talking a couple nights ago. We couldn't tell what he was saying, but he was mighty cute! 

May 6, 2011 - was asked by a very insistent Ruby tonight where the dog's medicine is. When I said I didn't know, she, gesturing with her hands said, well, "you're the worker", so I must've put it somewhere. Well, at least I now know what my official title is. "The worker". That's me!

May 9, 2011 - just got off the phone with David...a vehicle's brakes weren't working, and they crashed into the side of the nursing home. Leaving a 3 ft x 18 inch hole, but a crack around 6 ft. David estimated that they were going between 30 and 40 mph and said they went through a parking lot on their way to hitting the building.

May 9, 2011 - on our way back from playing in the creek tonight, Jadelyn and Ruby's mud boots were full of sloshing creek water. (Isaac stopped to empty his out, and in the process got a rock in one of 'em, which he needed Mommy's help with. But I digress...) Ruby had a hand trowel stuck in her boot, and Jadelyn had her hands stuck in her boots - playing in the water, of course.

May 17, 2011 - is overwhelmed after the first PT appointment with the kid's new "exercise doctors". How am I supposed to find about 2 hours a day to exercise these munchkins? Of course, if I DID manage to find that time, well, they'd be lean, mean, tough machines! (They're already lean and mean, so we'd just be working on the "tough" part.)

May 18, 2011 - chuckled at the following conversation: David: "I want you to be nice and quiet..." Ruby: "What's that?" Oh, my.

May 18, 2011 - : tonight, David informed Isaac that he was going to have to have a consequence for not obeying. Isaac quickly replied that he was going to run away. (Who knew it started so young? =P) Ruby then piped in, "I betcha that they'll catch ya!"

May 19, 2011 - : 9 years ago, I was getting ready to walk down the aisle. Happy Anniversary to my lovely David! (Yeah, I bet he's THRILLED to be called "lovely", but he is! =D)

May 19, 2011 - : well, the kids had a ball with their babysitter, and we had a ball without the kids. Good thing that David didn't hit the vehicle behind us in the Dairy Queen drive thru when he put the car in reverse instead of going forward. He thought he might have hit them, but he got out and checked with them and he hadn't. Maybe I'll have to be the designated driver. =O

May 20, 2011 - "Mom, did you know I love you so much...I feel like crying". - Ruby
"Am I super strong?" - Isaac to Ruby while playing. Alas, there was no response. 

May 20, 2011 - : apparently Jadelyn's dare-devilness wasn't diminished at all after riding her tricycle down the 5 steps on the back porch. Soon after, what do I find her doing? Riding Pucka's rocking horse with no hands.

May 22, 2011 - found a tick in Jadelyn's crib on her blanket when doing the before-bed-straighten-up tonight. Now I have a minor case of the creepy-crawlies....

May 23, 2011 - is super disappointed after our first PT session since leaving Indiana. Super disappointed. 

May 26, 2011 - : tree fell down on our barn, and I don't even know when...we've only had a little wind, nothing real bad. Huh. David noticed it tonight, but the only damage we've found so far is just a little dent in the very edge of the tin roof. Good thing, 'cause the things so old it can't be insured. At least I think that's the story. =O

June 21, 2011 - Had a great few days in Kentucky with Kim and her family. Now we are back home safe and sound. (By Tracy)

June 22, 2011 - Hannah told me this morning that she wants to stay at your house forever, 10 days, til Jesus comes (By Tracy)

July 13, 2011 - Yay! Going to the park for a picnic with Kim and 3 pretty cool kiddos So glad it has cooled off since yesterday! (By Hughes)

July 16, 2011 - Andrew is the only one who caught any. (By Tracy)


September 15, 2011 - I request your prayers in behalf of Ruby and her worried Mommy and Daddy. We're back to the orthopaedic surgeon's AGAIN tomorrow (we were there 3 weeks ago, and then two weeks ago were at a geneticist's) for more x-rays and a video. It's looking like surgery for Ruby's hips is looming. I know God is in control, and I covet prayers to cover my little Ruby.

September 16, 2011 - Packing for camping at Turkey Run with Kim and family!! (By Tracy)

September 21, 2011 - in reply to Tracy asking what we did with our extra day of vacation: Well, we just went to a hotel with a pool and HOT TUB (kids' favorite). Swam a little on Sunday night, and then a little more on Monday before hitting the road. We were gonna go to the Children's Museum, but the kids were way too tired and cranky. We were tired too, but not so cranky. =) They slept most of the way to Louisville. Then we hung out on the skywalk thing in Louisville for a couple hours on Monday. The kids loved the "tunnels" over and next to the roads, escalators, and glass-elevators (in a hotel that we visited...David had been there for meetings before and wanted to show us it's awesomeness.). David? He loved the food court that had Subway (for me), Taco Bell/KFC, Taipei Taiwan or something (for him), and Wendy's (for Frosties). I think he has decided that that is the best place EVER for eating out. =) How's THAT for a long-winded reply, you Tilt-a-whirl-rocker, you? =) I'm IMPRESSED, by the way...I think I'd have gotten SICK. Can't handle spinning post-kids. Wimp, I know. =P Okay, I should go. Love you!

October 5, 2011 - : Ruby update - no surgery for now at least. Geneticist doesn't need to see us back but thinks the hip subluxation problem is related to hypotonia. Being referred to a neurologist to find out any underlying cause of the hypotonia. Maybe we can just exercise her hip area muscles like crazy and avoid surgery? Thank you all for your prayers!

November 7, 2011 - is SO VERY proud of my Ruby who had 6-7 (or so?) vials of blood drawn today with just the slightest whimper when the needle first went in. This from the child that usually screams BLOODY MURDER when she (or one of her siblings) gets a shot. She nearly passed out afterward, but we got her fixed up. GO RUBY!!!!!

November 29, 2011 - Another 9 vials of blood for Ruby. She declared that she "wasn't brave" this time 'cause she cried a bit at the beginning. But quieting down after two vials or so and staying still on her own....I'm still impressed. Now we're in wait mode. If her tests come back positive, she'll have surgery on one hip, followed by 6 weeks in a cast, then surgery on the other hip, followed by 6 weeks in a cast. If the tests are negative, then it's 6 months in a cast. Just want to get it over already. 

 

December 4, 2011 - Please pray for my amazing Grandma. She's been battling cancer for a long time, and it now appears that the end is very close. Please pray for her peace and comfort, and the same for her 7 kids. I am so very blessed to have her as my Grandma. I love you, Grandma!

December 4, 2011 - My kids with Grandma - she had such patience with them, even when she was so weak and they have boundless energy. What a wonderful, wonderful lady.


December 4, 2011 - Just another picture of my amazingly strong and wonderful Grandma.


December 5, 2011 - Today we lost our matriarch, an incredible lady who was very much loved and will be very much missed. I love you, Grandma! You are inspiring, and I am so grateful that I have had the privilege of being your granddaughter.

December 11, 2011 - : 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...."hmmm..........stinky poo!" Oh, dear. Guess I should be more careful with my nicknames. =O

December 12, 2011 - Cannot believe it, but I now have two 5 year-olds. Crazy!!! =O Happy birthday, Ruby and Isaac!!!!!! I love you!

December 18, 2011 - My kids are growing up. Sniff, sniff....Jadelyn is in a big kid bed for the second night (Isaac slept in her crib last night, and Ruby is tonight - we haven't got her own big kid bed put up, yet. =P) and tonight, Isaac is wearing underwear to bed for the first night. Crazy how fast time flies!

December 25, 2011 - I'm quite convinced that we have the sweetest neighbors in the world. So very blessed to have them!

December 27, 2011 - Finally got Ruby's surgery dates today: first surgery and cast is April 9, second surgery and cast is April 23, and cast comes off on May 30. Thankful that she'll be in a cast so much shorter than originally anticipated. Scared about the surgery, pain, recovery, and stuff. Thank you all for your prayers!

2012 Facebook Updates....

January 11, 2012 - You know you're a mother to young children when, upon entering a public restroom alone, you feel an overwhelming sense of peace (No fighting, screaming, peeking under doors, crying when the toilet flushes unexpectedly or too loudly, etc.) and you actually stay longer than necessary to fully soak in the quiet aloneness... Seriously was close to being the highlight of yesterday's date with David...other than time with him, of course. 

January 12, 2012 - True love - Isaac got a "big sucker" for having an entire day with no consequences, and he shared. Big time. Gotta love that kid.


January 13, 2012 - The sharing saga continues.  


January 29, 2012 - Tonight at supper, Ruby was thoroughly enjoying her concoction - soynuts in her carob shake. And Jadelyn was thoroughly enjoying getting as much relish as she could out of the squeezable relish container. Any guess who the health nut is? Ai yai yai.

February 11, 2012 - Jadelyn and Xander bonding time. (By Shelley)


February 11, 2012 - Ruby wanted to get dressed up for Sabbath in my boots and Selah's coat (by Shelley)


March 8, 2012 - The sweetest brother this house has ever seen - Ruby wasn't feeling well, and when I looked over from the kitchen, this is what I found.


March 8, 2012 - On a "date" eating "dates".  


March 8, 2012 - My sweet little hairy man.


March 8, 2012 - Caring for sicko-Daddy-o in their own special way. 


March 8, 2012 - Taking advantage of our snow/hail/combo/thing - David's idea. Smart fella.


March 8, 2012 - Ruby's very proud of her stash! 


March 8, 2012 - Our snowman of the season - since it doesn't appear we'll get to build a real one. Much to Isaac's chagrin. =O


March 8, 2012 - Crazy Lynnie, who acts completely normal while running high temperatures. Except the crazy eyes in this picture. Ha!


March 8, 2012 - A more normal Jadelyn. If that is possible.


March 8, 2012 - Lovin' this activity of the past few days.  


March 10, 2012 - Was reading some old gems my children have blessed me with when I stumbled upon this one from last month - "Today, I asked crazy Jadelyn where she came from. She didn't know. I asked her if Jesus made her. Yes. I asked her if Jesus loved her. Yes. I asked her if she loved Jesus. "Monkey's bite me all the time" was the answer I believe I got. Okay, kiddo. " That kid cracks me up.

March 11, 2012 - Got 545 seeds, (okay more, really, but 545 little holder-things - yes, I'm a nerd) planted and in the greenhouse in probably less than an hour and a half thanks to my little farmhands. I used to dislike spring, but it's become magical in my old age. 

March 15, 2012 - Had a great conversation (okay, I mostly listened) to Jadelyn at bedtime tonight. It started by talking about who loved her, turned into a lengthy conversation about teeth, (Mr. Matt and Ms. Josie love her and won't bite her because they have teeth...or something to that effect, I believe) then tornados "sucking you up" and needing to go under the house, then about "oh! My light just went blink, blink, blink!" And then about why did she used to bounce in her crib. Got the attention span of her father, I fear....

March 26, 2012 - Bike crashes, sunburn, waterfall hikes, hot tubbin', rainbow-viewin', family time - 'twas a good vacation. 

March 28, 2012 - 1 week until Ruby's surgery and today she came down with the cold that the rest of us got yesterday. Please pray she gets over this QUICKLY so she can still have the surgery.

March 29, 2012 - The joys of pruning apple trees comes indoors.  


March 29, 2012 - Family time in the pasture....


March 29, 2012 - Crazy loons - Photo Courtesy of Tammy Sowder Photography 


March 29, 2012 - My Brave Ruby - Photo Courtesy of Tammy Sowder Photography


March 29, 2012 - My Little Fella - Photo Courtesy of Tammy Sowder Photography


March 29, 2012 - Silly Little Lynnie - Photo Courtesy of Tammy Sowder Photography


March 29, 2012 - My 3 Little Monkeys....Photo Courtesy of Tammy Sowder Photography


March 29, 2012 - Oh, yeah...I still got it. Photo Courtesy of Tammy Sowder Photography


April 1, 2012 - 2 more days 'til Ruby's surgery. Any favorite Bible texts about fear/worry/anxiety you wish to share with us? I'm hoping to write 'em down and review and review and review and claim and claim and claim and cry and cry and cry and pray and pray and pray...you know...stuff like that...during what I presume will be the longest 5 hours of my life. "I need the prayers of those I love!"

April 3, 2012 - Pre-op visit, x-ray, blood draw, urine specimen COMPLETE! Ruby was NOT all about the blood draw, but you know....she shared her stickers and toys with Isaac and Jadelyn when we got home. Supposed to check in at 6am tomorrow. We won't know if Ruby is too sick for the surgery until the anesthesiologist sees her. Please pray that she's well enough!

April 3, 2012 - And...Isaac threw up at worship tonight. When it rains it pours. This time literally. Gross. Please pray Ruby stays well enough!!! Poor little fella....

April 4, 2012 - Playing with the bed...BEFORE WE GOT SENT HOME!!! Crazy. She was fine, minus her little stuffiness...pretty much had gotten the all-clear to proceed, went to the OR place, where the anestegiologist was checking her, noticed she was hot, fever of 100. It had been fine when they checked before. Then, once we got home? It was 98.1. So, April 16 is the new date.


April 5, 2012 - Got to plant some of the garden (thanks for tilling it up better, Dad), and tuck all 3 kiddos into their own beds last night. Wasn't thinking that I'd get to do any of that. There are good sides to sugery getting postponed, I suppose. 

April 8, 2012 - stove that's been sitting out in our garage for around a year and a half? SOLD!!! Finally. 

April 8, 2012 - Not to sound like a broken record or anything, but please keep Ruby in your prayers. She's had a fever pretty much all day today and her new surgery date is a week from tomorrow - we need her well!!!!!

April 10, 2012 - Ruby just did something that I must admit I've never done - caught her very own frog!!! I was so proud! Isaac wanted to catch one, but was too afraid, so was trying to have Ruby catch the frog again. That's my boy! 

April 11, 2012 - They're making the decision about if Ruby's surgery on Monday will continue or be postponed due to a low-grade temp that she had on Sunday, Monday, and part of Tuesday...please pray! I'm so impatient, I just want this over already. 

 

April 12, 2012 - As of right now, the plan is to continue forward with surgery on Monday - please pray that Ruby gets ALL the way well and STAYS that way!!! Thanks so much for your prayers!

April 15, 2012 - Tomorrow morning will start out bright and early - 4am. Please pray for us as we again go in for Ruby's surgery. Thankfully...she told me she's not scared right now. I, on the other hand....yeah, I've been doing lots of memory verse reciting and praying. "I STILL need the prayers of those I love!!!!!" P.S. Her temp has been fine...though she got a little rash-looking thing from her pre-op scrub tonight. =O

April 16, 2012 - Ruby was gettin' ready to head back for her surgery. She's back now. Please keep us in your prayers today - it'll be a long haul.


April 16, 2012 - Just got a call. Ruby went to sleep fine - held her own mask to her face. So proud of her - that's the part she was most scared of. I'm sure the "happy juice" helped. I love that gal and can't wait to see her in a few more hours. Thank you so much for your prayers! Please keep 'em comin'!

April 16, 2012 - PRAISE GOD!!! They are already sewing Ruby up - that will take about 20 minutes and then another 40 minutes or so to do the cast. AND!!! The graft took well, so NO SCREWS OR PINS!!! God is SO good!!! Looking forward to seeing my little girl in an hour! Whoo-hoooooo!!!!!!

April 16, 2012 - Talked to the surgeon...still waiting to see my girl. Things went really well...hope she's not hurting too bad.

April 16, 2012 - Watchin' my baby girl go to sleep for a nap. She's such a brave girl! Looking forward to her incessant talking again...who knew I'd miss it so quickly!

April 16, 2012 - Here's part of her cast...the rest is all covered up! Wasn't expecting it to look like this, but am pleasantly surprised that it doesn't go on her one leg at all....

April 16, 2012 - Finally sleeping - for hopefully more than 2 minutes like the last "nap". Poor girl is exhausted. And hungry (but she's laying on her belly and they don't want to turn her again just yet). And wants a cuddle but alas that's not allowed right now. I love my Ruby.

April 17, 2012 - Well, the pain has started - especially when we have to turn her. She's still brave as all get out, but hurting - in her hip and in her arms, which she hasn't been moving much. She hardly slept after the surgery yesterday and didn't sleep real well last night, so she's resting now. Just checked and she's sleeping. Thank you for your prayers, thoughts, and kind words!

April 17, 2012 - Ruby had some pretty special visitors today!


April 17, 2012 - Oh, and she loves this boy, too...though it doesn't particularly look like it.  


April 17, 2012 - These next few pictures about melt my little heart....love these kids.


April 17, 2012 - Isaac took the soundmaker out of the doll...and Ruby actually had enough hand strength to squeeze it this way....


April 17, 2012 - He loves her so very much! Did NOT want to leave when it was time. Of course it MIGHT have had more to do with the fact he was having a ball making the pinwheel go crazy fast in front of the fan, but I like to pretend it was all about his love for his sister....


April 17, 2012 - Caretaker Isaac, who would've loved to stay up here tonight...


April 17, 2012 - There it is - the cast in all it's "glory". 


April 17, 2012 - Enjoyed a relaxing few hours with Isaac, Jadelyn, Karl and Linda at a park for lunch and play. So thankful for my incredibly amazing kids and my wonderful in-laws. Oh, and for David, who stayed with Ruby, of course. Ruby update: resting for the longest time I've seen her rest here except for at night (which I technically didn't "see", 'cause I was busy resting, too ;D), though she keeps jerki...ng herself awake which terrifies her - she feels like she's moving, which is a side effect of the medication. Luckily these times a little kiss and reassurance seems to calm her down. Beat me in her first game of Old Maid tonight, too. Thankful for our wonderful doctors and nurses and aids, too. Special people.

April 17, 2012 - Okay, scary-for-Mama update: Ruby's heartrate is hanging around 150. Then she complained of chest pain. Then the doctor was called. Then orthopedist person was called. Said her cast wasn't too tight. Nurse thought it was. Orthopedist left to call someone. Came back in soon after with the cast-saw. Cut it down the length of the not-bad-hip side and stretched it some which traumatized both R...uby and Mama (because Ruby was so scared and they didn't explain things well to her). (Hope it still keeps her hip in place properly!) That relieved Ruby's pain. So, they were hoping her heart rate would go down. But it didn't. Well, it did some, but it's still in the low 150s for the most part. Nurse just came in and talked to me - said that we're hoping it will stay in the 140s again. They are hoping to take the epidural out tomorrow morning, but Ruby keeps complaining of hip pain. Some is fear, and some, I believe, is real pain. Please keep praying for her pain (and fear) level to go WAY down. Enough of my long update. 

April 18, 2012 - Rough, rough night last night 'til about 2am, then got MUCH better. This morning, Ruby's been quite alert - "playing" and talking, but still lots of fear. They stopped the medication through her epidural and since then there seems to be more pain - seems quite bad when they move her at times. She has been out and about in her wheelchair - played Chutes and Ladders and some "Sorry" before she tired out. Resting now. Poor girl. Heart rate is still up, but not as high. No idea how we're going to manage at home - she can't sit up at all, so eating, playing, etc. are going to be a real trick.

April 18, 2012 - "It's crazy how Jesus made night shifters....normally people don't work at night." - Ruby

April 18, 2012 - Oh, what a long, long day. Ruby is almost manic with all her talking and worrying and wow. "Just-in-case" IV out, catheter out, epidural out, out and about on wheelchair (followed by an hour of bad pain), she's hardly slept at all and still isn't. Still hurting when getting moved, but most of the crying seems due to fear. Oxygen levels have gone as low as 88 tonight that I saw, but are at 93 n...ow. Pulse is still in the 140s/150s unless she's real scared, when it jumps to the 160s/170s or so. Reality that we have to figure out a way to take care of her at home is setting in and I'm getting a bit scared. It's not been too bad here - she's the only one I have to focus attention on and the nurses do most of the scary stuff - I'm just the support person. At home it's 3 kids, housework, and garden time. And thankfully David, who has already volunteered to do most of the nighttime turning - THANK YOU, BUDDY!!! Inner super-Mom, where are you? ;P On a positive note, though, I've got to hear Ruby sing several times today. Medicine for my weary soul! 

April 19, 2012 - GOOD night. Ruby slept and slept and is still sleeping. Praise God!!! She was SO overtired. And as of 5am, she had a dry diaper, and around then went a good pee in the bedpan, so hopefully she'll stay dry. I got nearly 5 hours of sleep in a ROW thanks to our nurse

April 19, 2012 - Well, Ruby is making sure that I am well inducted into bedpan use before we go home. Pretty much for 4 hours I've been doing bedpan runs. Only took me 2.5 hours or so to eat part of a roll, some chips, and some juice (well balanced, I know. =O). My back is killing me. But, well, we're getting the hang of it. 

April 20, 2012 - Home!!! And whadd'ya know, Isaac has a fever over 102. Poor little fella. All kiddos are in their beds and sleeping. Ruby's first real nap at the "right" (or sorta right) time since Sunday. Ruby has had some pain today, but she's pretty medicated to avoid that. Still not pooping (minus the few spurts), so prayers would be appreciated. It's been since Sunday since a good poop. (Man, you c...an tell I'm old when I'm posting about poop. =O) Oh, and WHERE IN TARNATION DID I PUT MY CAST COOLER?!?!?! =O That's what I get for "organizing" - I forget where the thing is, and I tore the closet apart, and STILL can't find it. ARRRGGHHH!!! Someday I'll find it, but I'd really like it today to take care of the wet places on Ruby's cast. Oh...and we tried to get her on a real potty today, but she doesn't fit right with the angle of her cast...Dr. said with the type of hip problem Ruby has it would be best to cast her straight down, but can't do that 'cause she's gotta go potty. Okay, enough potty talk. Consider yourself updated - probably more than you cared to be. 

April 20, 2012 - Sweetest phone conversation I've ever overheard - Ruby and Isaac were talking last night and Ruby said "I love you!" (okay, I told her to say it, I admit) and then I heard Isaac, "I love you, too!" to which Ruby said, "I love you, too!" and Isaac said, "I love you, too!" (or something like that...distance must REALLY make the heart grow fonder...never heard a conversation like THAT from them before. =D) Sweetest thing now...Ruby woke up from her nap but managed to scoot herself up to the head of her bed and reach over her head to find the baby monitor we put in her room for if she needed help to let me know she was awake without waking Isaac up. Just LOVE that girl! 

April 21, 2012 - SUCCESS!!! 

April 22, 2012 - Today I am thankful. Thankful for an amazing husband and 3 healthy kids. Thankful that our "health crisis" is not a life-threatening one. Thankful for dirty clothes and toys that were strewn all over earlier today. Thankful for food to make and bottoms to wipe. Just overwhelmingly thankful, thankful, thankful

April 23, 2012 - Me to Jadelyn: "are you my girl?" Jadelyn: "will you share with Daddy?" Guess she doesn't want to be JUST mine! 

April 24, 2012 - "Good thing they didn't put a cast on my mouth....'cause then I couldn't talk." - probably paraphrased Ruby. 1/2 hour later or so she commented that another reason it's a good thing they didn't put a cast on her mouth is then she couldn't kiss. 

April 25, 2012 - This morning I asked Jadelyn if she had a song stuck in her head. Her response? "No. Just hair". Ha! 

April 27, 2012 - Is it wrong that while looking at some pictures today I came across a picture of me blowing out my "31" candles and thought something along the lines of, "WHAT?!?!?! I thought I was only 30!!!!" Oh, good grief....

May 3, 2012 - Rough day. May tomorrow not be like this.

May 6, 2012 - Gearing up for the next surgery on Wednesday. Ruby seems to be relatively okay, other than not wanting all the "tubes" in her again. Thank you all for all your prayers!!!!!

May 8, 2012 - It appeared that Ruby got teary tonight as she hugged Isaac goodbye. Harder for me to say goodbye to Jadelyn and Isaac, too. Headed out for sugery #2 bright and early tomorrow...please keep us in your prayers...again and/or still. 

May 9, 2012 - Ruby was taken back for surgery around 8:30am SCREAMING her head off. "Happy juice" didn't work so hot today. Really, she had been doing GREAT minus the finger stick and then when they took her back. She told me, "I want you to stay with me". Child sure knows how to rip my heart out. =O Cast is off, skin looked great and surgery has started....pink cast coming!

 

May 9, 2012 - "I'm not so scared of the hospital today!"

May 9, 2012 - Surgery is over already! No pins and screws again, Praise God!!!!! Closing her up and getting her cast on, which could take another hour, then she has time in the recovery room, so we'll probably get to see her in 2 hours or so. So, so, so thankful!!!!

 

May 9, 2012 - Off to meet with the Dr. in the surgery waiting room.....

May 9, 2012 - LOTS of pain this time around. Worse than the worst owie face on the pain chart at times. Please pray for Ruby!

May 9, 2012 - 3 loonies on a log....


May 9, 2012 - Quite sure the epidural was leaking and not doing a thorough job of pain management. They've turned it off and started her on IV and suppository meds but if she's sleeping, how is she supposed to push her pain button every 6 minutes? Dr. is supposed to be here at 9pm to remove the epidural, I think. Please keep Ruby in your prayers. She's sure hurting today. Also, hoping her cast lining isn't all wet from the epidural leak. My poor girl.

May 9, 2012 - Okay, off to bed! I think I have an hour or maybe even an hour and a half until I need to be up for moral support!

May 10, 2012 - The "jerks" have started...so scary for Ruby. And she's pretty consistently rating her pain as an 8 out of 10. Thank you all for your prayers! I think it was in one of her prayers last night/this morning that Ruby was telling Jesus about the people praying for her. Or maybe she just told me. =O My brain is failing me. 

May 10, 2012 - Ruby continues to be in LOTS of pain. Supposed to get her epidural removed in the next 15 minutes or so - very upset about it, as it hurt her so bad when they took the tape off last time. Also looking like the cast might need to be loosened some again - it's incredibly tight, and even has some rough edges rubbing on her bottom. Cast loosening was the most traumatic thing for Ruby last time. Please keep us in your prayers! My heart is breaking. Ruby keeps asking me to pray for her, too....

May 10, 2012 - Thank you all for your prayers! Ruby has been sleeping for about 2.5 hours - unheard of for a nap in the hospital for her. She sure can use some rest!

May 10, 2012 - This afternoon I witnessed my sweet Ruby endure 2 and a half hours of pure torture. She was in agony, saying over and over, "Oh, so owie! Oh, so owie!" Broke my heart. They loosened the side of her cast a little, but didn't seem to give her relief. Dr. is concerned with how low her oxygen is going, so we're limited on how much morphine we can give her for the pain. Please, please, please pray that she stops hurting soon.

May 10, 2012 - And Ruby has thrown up and is feeling sick and is on oxygen. Poor girl. Thankfully the Dr. found a way she can suck her thumb even with the oxygen mask on. It's all gotta get straightened around soon, right?

May 11, 2012 - We seem to have turned a corner! Ruby expressed some desire to get "out and about" today once her tubes come out, I got 6.5 hours of sleep, and she's been quite alert and talkative today. Praise the Lord!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

May 11, 2012 - Couple Ruby quotes from the last day - "You're a good Mommy", and in response to me saying that I'm so sorry she was hurting, "Jesus is even more sad than you are". She's still definitely not her normal self (hence the "you're a good Mommy" quote. Ha!), but things are looking up. She's been eating - felt nauseous but didn't throw up; has been awake most of the day - resting now; got up in her wheelchair - we didn't go anywhere, but she ate and played Old Maid in it; oh, and the most important - I've seen some smiles and heard some singing! 

May 11, 2012 - We're in the midst of the pooping battle again. TMI? Sorry. =O Anyhow...it's worse this time, as she's in incredible pain. Things she has screamed (over and over and over) in the past 2.5 hours? "I NEED HELP!", "I NEED IT OUT!", "HELP ME!", etc. Poor girl. It's just agony. We turned her on her belly (smart nurse) to relieve some pressure, and she's resting now.....

May 11, 2012 - More talkative Ruby this evening - and even some pottying without screaming, which is always nice. Okay, well, some screaming, but not nearly constant for hours on end. I think we're JUST about to get over the hump...once we get back home, all will be well - we just need to get outta here!!!!!! Ha.

May 12, 2012 - Well, we had another good night last night and pretty good morning so far. Ruby ate better than she's been eating, but after nearly every bite of the sandwich she was eating, she had to pause for a few minutes to hold the throw-up bin. Nauseous even though she has IV meds to help with that. Still wondering if her cast is too tight on her poor little belly.....and still don't know if we'll go home today or tomorrow.

May 12, 2012 - Well, because of the nausea, which is happening quite often, we're stuck here 'til tomorrow. Disappointing for sure, since we were hoping to leave today, but just a few more hours.....

May 12, 2012 - She's BAAACCCKKKK!!!!! Ruby is much more her normal self today.


May 12, 2012 - Thinking about you and your beautiful family ~
Jeremiah 33:6
Behold, I will bring it health and healing; I will heal them and reveal to them the abundance of
peace and truth. (By Tammy Sowder)


May 14, 2012 - Well, we're home - hence the lack of constant updates. Ruby's feeling much better and still needs much tending to, and Isaac and Jadelyn are periodically vying with Ruby for Mommy's attention...so, busy times. Still, glad to be home!!!!!!

May 15, 2012 - So, when we got home on Sunday, Jadelyn had a fever, and our drain field is shot, so we are REALLY limiting our use of water - not my idea of fun. Now, Jadelyn and Isaac have colds and the hose for the hot water under our bathroom sink exploded all over the bathroom floor today. Thankfully my good-attitude-Mom was here, pointing out that "well, at least that's one way to get the floor mopped!" I told her that I need her attitude!!!!! She was also all cheerful after both Isaac and Jadelyn got carsick and threw up in her car last week. Mom - you amaze me!!!!! Thanks for all your help!!! 

May 25, 2012 - So, in the past few weeks, Ruby had her second big surgery, we had our current septic connected to a different drainfield, our bathroom sink and toilet broke (minorly, thankfully), we had family in from MI and AL, David and I celebrated our 10th anniversary with a date (thanks, Tracy and Mom - you guys are brave!!! =D), Ruby and a follow-up x-ray and all is looking fine, spent 3 hours at the dentist's for 4 cleanings (we all got "A's" =D), and David lost his job. Life never gets boring around these parts. Please keep us in our prayers that we will follow God's will wherever that may take us!

May 26, 2012 - Thought I would share this to all my Mom friends - well, the rest of you might like it, too. "Not the great things which every eye sees and every tongue praises does God account most precious. The little duties cheerfully done, the little gifts which make no show, and which to human eyes may appear worthless, often stand highest in His sight. A heart of faith and love is dearer to God than the most costly gift." Desire of Ages page 615. Sometimes what we do doesn't seem to matter, and seems like thankless work, but Jesus cares!

June 4, 2012 - Jadelyn: "Why you wearing a skirt?"
Me: That's just what I put on this morning.
Jadelyn: "Why you wearing a red shirt?"
Me: That's just what I put on this morning.
Jadelyn: "Why you wearing a head?"

Kinda makes me wonder what headless people she hangs out with.... Crazy kid.

June 7, 2012 - My little Jadelyn Grace is 3 today. Crazy how time flies..... Happy Birthday, Lynnie! 

June 7, 2012 - Let the job interviews begin! Please pray we end up at the right place. I sure will miss my farm. ;( I got spoiled....=O

June 7, 2012 - Just made what I think will be the yummiest cake I've ever made. But also the worst looking. Learned that though oil can be substituted for butter/crisco in most recipies, it should NOT be substituted in frosting recipies! Running down the sides, for sure. =O Oh, and what did Jadelyn want on her cake? A picture of a blue bowl. Yeah. My kids are so abnormal. And I love 'em. Bowls are WAY easier to draw than a princess or something. 

June 7, 2012 - Jadelyn's nighttime prayer tonight (not ver batim, but as close as I can remember it) "Thank you that I'm 3. Oh, thank you for the day that you gave us, I'm 3 now. Close your eyes [Mom - hey, she was done, and then started again!] Help me get 5." Oh, boy...nothing like rushing through your childhood!!!! 

 

June 11, 2012 - Just listed my dream home on Craigslist....sigh...can't I just take it and our neighbors with us wherever we go? Sniff, sniff.....

June 11, 2012 - Yes, we had a little visitor in our home yesterday....


June 11, 2012 - The fam is out flying with Uncle Darbi. Ruby takes up 2 seats, so I'm left all alone. Here's to hoping they don't crash!!!

June 13, 2012 - "Dad, this is a FUN traffic jam" says the little girl laying flat on her back in the middle seat....

June 14, 2012 -  Sad conclusion to the bluebird experience...returned home last night to find things knocked down, bird poop by nearly every window, and a dead bird in the sink...


June 14, 2012 - I was showing Lona (my grand daughter) pictures of Ruby & her cast, and Lona said "that poor thing.. she looks too pretty to have a cast on" (By Linda Butcher)

June 14, 2012 - I did some serious "cast care" on Ruby tonight- replacing tape and vacuuming the snot out of her cast. What did Ruby think of it all? (This may be a paraphrase...) "THIS IS THE WORST NIGHT OF MY LIFE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" Yeah. So not a fan...

June 16, 2012 - Ruby wanted to sing special music at church today. David told her that he wouldn't offer her services like she wanted him to, but if they asked her, she could sing. (Visiting at a different church today, so the likelihood was slim...) What do you know? They asked if anyone had a special music! So, Ruby and Jadelyn (Isaac didn't want to sing) sang "Wonderful". So glad Ruby wants to sing for Jesus! (And appreciate that she has her Daddy's outgoingness, too...;D)

June 21, 2012 - Job offer rolled in today. Please, please, please pray that we make the right decision...

June 22, 2012 - David just accepted the job for South Haven. His new boss is letting him start a week later than originally planned so that we can be around here for Ruby's week of intensive Physical Therapy following getting her cast off next Friday. So, he starts on July 9 in MI, and we can all come up together. Time to pack like crazy! Anyone want to buy a house in Crab Orchard, KY? Or know of a place in South Haven? Good grief....moving is crazy.

June 24, 2012 - Anyone want to move to Crab Orchard, KY? I know just the home for you!

http://craborchardhomeforsale.blogspot.com/

June 27, 2012 - "I wanna watch more videos of a girl getting popped with that balloon" (or something like that) - Ruby (aka videos about airbags...=P)

June 27, 2012 - Chickens are gone. Why am I a bit sad about it while the kids are fine? ;P They loved those things! I'm a mess. 

June 28, 2012 - Ruby goes in to get her cast off tomorrow!!! YAY, YAY, YAY!!!!! After 10.5 short (really, they went by fast) weeks, the day is almost here!!!! Please keep us in your prayers. She has to go under anesthesia again to have an arthrogram of her hips done, and then, as the doctor says, "the hard part starts" - learning to use her muscles again. From what I've seen, it takes about 6 weeks on average to learn to walk again, and Ruby has low muscle tone to begin with....thanks for all your prayers, support, and encouragement!

June 29, 2012 - The return of the legs!!!!! Her right leg (the one that's been casted the whole time) has quite a bit of pain. The left is fine. She's moved them both around some (left further than the right), has sat up in her wheelchair at a 90 degree angle, rode home in her normal carseat, took lots of (very assisted) steps, and is looking forward to a bath after naptime. Oh, and NO BRACE!!! What a great day.


June 30, 2012 - Today, Ruby was cruising around holding onto furniture, stood without holding onto anything, climbed onto the couch, pushed around a tricycle while sitting on it, walked around while holding our hands (or having us hold under her arms), and begged to walk a bunch more. I'd say she's doing better than I had EVER anticipated. SO thankful. 

July 2, 2012 - Ruby's first day of therapy today. There was much gawking and people with open mouths watching my amazing daughter. Bursting with pride, here, I know. =O She walked for over an hour today with her new walker (real slow, but bending her knees and heel-toeing it), rode a bike, and did everything the therapist asked - and some extra for good measure. Very proud of my determined little firecracker! And Isaac and Jadelyn, too...they're getting left out of update posts, but I assure you, they are VERY special, too. 

July 2, 2012 - "If I scream, the spiders will come. If you are quiet, the bears will come." - Jadelyn. What's a Mom to do? 

July 5, 2012 - Tonight I realized another benefit of having a small house. Less walls and windows to clean when you move. Are we on the road yet? Moving is SO not my thing. 

July 6, 2012 - Anyone want to take care of our high-energy, outdoor, 2 year-old Red Heeler, Hickory, for a few months until we can buy a house in MI? It won't work well at our rental...

July 10, 2012 - Guess who started walking on her own yesterday? And who didn't use her walker at ALL today? And who can get back to standing from laying down on the ground? (as long as she has something to hang on to) And who has gone potty independently for the past day and a half (minus the time Isaac helped her pull her pants up)? Oh, yeah, it's my girl!!! I'm so proud of her!!! She's only been out of the cast for 1 week and 4 days. Did I mention how proud of her I am?

July 11, 2012 - This morning Ruby told me that David called her independent. But that he was silly, 'cause she's just Ruby. 

July 13, 2012 - Yesterday, as we were driving down a dirt road, Ruby asked, "what town are we in?" That amused me, as we were driving down...a dirt road. But to humor her, I answered, "Grand Junction". They didn't know why it was named that, and then Isaac piped up from the back seat something along the lines of, "must be 'cause there's a lot of junk here". Crazy loons.

July 13, 2012 - "That's too screamey. If you want to buy your own house and lock yourself in it and scream than that's okay" - paraphrased David talking to Jadelyn who was doing a scream laugh in the van. This guy is a crack up.

July 18, 2012 - My internet worked properly, so I got houses lined up and in order to drive by tonight. 24 more houses, here we come!!! (If the kids can hold out that long....=O) SO THRILLED that the internet worked!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yes, I may have moved to Michigan from Kentucky, but I still live in the boonies....further in the boonies, actually....I miss Kentucky. =O

July 19, 2012 - Paraphrased goodnight conversation with Jadelyn: "Mommy, is Jesus coming tomorrow?" "We don't know when Jesus is coming. We just have to wait and be ready." "I'm ready!!!!!" Oh, to be like little children!

July 20, 2012 - So, tonight's goodnight conversation with Jadelyn involved her letting me know that my finger would not fit up her nose because my finger is too big, but her fingers fit up just fine because they're small enough. Oh, the things we never think we'll discuss and then do.....

July 22, 2012 - I asked Jadelyn to get a diaper out of her room. "But there are bugs in my room! I heard them when I was sleeping. So I plugged my ears". Huh....must have sensitive ears. Then, off she went to get me the diaper. She soon returned, informing me that she saw a bug, but it didn't get on her skin. This kid is so dramatic....

July 22, 2012 - The kids have been eating out on the deck tonight. Jadelyn had more than her share of fruit already, and was told by Daddy that she could have no more. When I was coming inside, Jadelyn was right behind me. I asked where she was going. Talking quietly for once, she said, "to get a plum". Nice try, sneaky Lynnie.

July 22, 2012 - Jadelyn is just full of it today! In preparation of her bath, she now has no clothes on except some of Ruby's too big shoes. She was talking to the cat through the closed door, "Cat, no woofing." I'm betting Alpine doesn't need to be told twice. 

July 22, 2012 - And, after bathtime, Jadelyn was in her hooded towel with crazy hair coming out the front, hiding on the couch, then lifting her head and announcing, "I a turtle. A snapping turtle. I bite people." Something like that. So, if you happen to visit, please keep an eye out for my people-biting-snapping-turtle-Jadelyn. 

July 23, 2012 - I have never heard a little girl that was wrestling-with/getting-squashed-by her older brother giggle as much as my crazy Lynnie. That child is a wild one.

July 24, 2012 - Rather enjoyed listening to Isaac tell his sisters that girls do not have gas. Only boys. He was quite insistent about it, too. I'm getting strange in my old age, aren't I? =O

July 24, 2012 - So, the house that we put an offer in on this morning is pending sale to someone else. The house that we were quite excited about at first sold the day after we looked at it, I think. Good news about this? We are spotting good deals - just have to get trigger happy now. 

July 29, 2012 - went blueberry picking tonight. And blueberry bushes are so yesterday's news. These things were like TREES! Fast, yummy, cheap pickin'. (55 cents per pound cheaper than the other week. I was TAKEN then. =P)

August 7, 2012 - Mini family reunion (By Aunt Utchie)


August 7, 2012 - David, Kim and kiddos (By Aunt Utchie)


August 8, 2012 - To all who were around my kiddos recently...Ruby got a sudden fever on Monday night, threw up, and has a sore throat. Today we went to the doctor and she has strep throat...so if your kiddos have those symptoms, BEWARE! Isaac now seems to be starting it, and David and I have sore throats, too. Yuck.

August 14, 2012 - David's nursing home survey just started today. This makes a LONG week. BUT! I'm so thankful it wasn't last week when the kids were sick, AND since it's here, we'll just get it done and over with. OH! And his nursing home license just got in today or yesterday, too, so perfect timing!

August 15, 2012 - So, we drove a ridiculous 20+ minutes each way to go to a park this evening. Add to that, as I got lost and couldn't find the park. Add to that more time because I got pulled over for speeding. (SO THANKFUL I ONLY GOT A WARNING! For that, I'm glad I still had KY plates on my car...I could truthfully look even more clueless than I already am. =O Honest...it was a big wide road and I was doing 35, but learned I should only have been doing 25. =O) The kids had about 20-25 minutes to play. What did Isaac and Jadelyn want to do nearly the entire time? Swing. I think I need to hang some swings up at home and stay there. ;P

August 19, 2012 - Isaac and Ruby were carrying on a gigglefest back in their beds. David just went back to remind them that it's time to sleep, and I heard Ruby telling David that we "can't turn off our laughers". Silly gooses....

August 21, 2012 - Jadelyn had to come tell "Grandma" (yeah, that'd be me) that they are going "swimming on dry land". Must be an interesting new sport. And then I heard Isaac talking about how he is going to raise his staff and the water will go sssssssssssss (or something). So happy things have turned around from what they were an hour ago! God is good!!! 

 

August 21, 2012 - Got an offer on our Kentucky home! That being said, these people are jokers. Ha!!! 

August 31, 2012 - Anyone have any homeschool curriculum they really enjoyed/have heard really good things about? The kids are somehow getting really old, and I should probably start thinking about such things. =O

August 2012 - Ruby and Isaac with their suspenders showing sibling "love" (by Shelley)


August 2012 - Making pennants for the kids to wave on our float during the parade (by Shelley)


September 2, 2012 - Oh, how different my kid's personalities are! Asked the kids tonight what their favorite part of the day was. Isaac - "fishing." Ruby - "seeing Jacob, Eric, Hannah, Jonathan, Andrew, Aunt Tracy, Aunt Aliya, and Uncle Mark." (not particularly in that order, but she did name everyone individually.) And Jadelyn's favorite part? "ICE CREAM!!!!! That's all." Crazy loons. 

September 9, 2012 - by Aunt Jeanne


September 10, 2012 - Isaac to Ruby: whispered, "I have some good news...we're going up to heaven now. WHEEE!!! Hold my hand. WHEE!!!! Yay! We're up in heaven now!!!" Love that kid.

September 12, 2012 - Ruby's follow-up appointment for her hips is tomorrow. Please keep us in your prayers. That her hips are dandy...AND that I don't get lost! =O I'm so not a big city gal! =O

September 13, 2012 - Dr's appointment went FANTASTIC! (Minus Jadelyn's near constant whining when the Dr. was in. =P) Ruby's hips are "awesome". This doctor actually did a rotation during his residency at Shriner's in Lexington and knows Dr. Walker, who did Ruby's surgery. He said Dr. Walker wrote "the" paper on CMT and hip dysplasia. I told him that she never told us...he said she wouldn't. Only downside is that he really doesn't want Ruby jumping or running much for the next 6 months, as her bone grafts aren't fully incorporated into her own bone yet....yeah, she's already done jumping and running...now we have to curb it. Oh, and I didn't get lost! Well, we DID go to the wrong floor of the parking garage, but you know...we figured it out. Good thing they're color-coded. So happy to have such an awesome doctor here! YAY!!!!! 

September 13, 2012 - Well, that totally backfired on me. I was talking to Jadelyn while changing a VERY stinky diaper about how she still wears diapers like a baby, blah, blah, blah, hoping to kick in her "I'm a BIG girl!" sentiment that she always has, and thus promote potty training. Then I put her to bed for naptime. She was kicking the wall. I went in and told her that was not okay. Her response? "But I'm a baby!" AAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!

September 13, 2012 - "K, let's make a conscious choice not to be annoying." - Paraphrased David to Ruby, who was saying, "Daddy, Daddy, Daddy, Daddy, Daddy, Daddy...." He worded it so much more eloquently than just saying "STOP THE MADNESS!!!" Bless his little heart

September 14, 2012 - Ruby was in the bathroom doing her hair while singing her very own ditty, "I'm a crazy woman! I'm a crazy woman!" True story. And true song. 

September 14, 2012 - Oh, sometimes the goodnight conversations I have with Jadelyn just crack me up! Tonight she was telling me all about her baby, and how she's the Mommy. She's a good Mommy 'cause she doesn't hit anyone. She just walks around them. And her baby played in the sand with her, and got dirty, so she put her in the dishwasher. (Good Mom, huh? =O) Then she saw Mr. Tom and Ms. Tina on the road and they went for a walk. And then they went to the hospital, because her baby had 3? appointments because her hips wouldn't stay in place. And she came to visit me. And her car is parked in the bathroom. What a kid. 

September 16, 2012 - Girls Day out!!!! (By Tracy)

September 17, 2012 - Tonight during Isaac's prayer, he was telling Jesus about my haircut, and how it looks like Aunt Shelley. And then something like, "Mommy's not normal. And she doesn't like it." Then we had to pause prayertime while we all had a good laugh. That kid is crazy

September 19, 2012 - Our cat just came up on the deck with a chipmunk in it's mouth. The chipmunk was still alive, but really hurting. The kids, Ruby and Isaac in particular, were really bothered by this, and got the cat to drop the chipmunk, who then hopped away crazy, but not very fast. The cat then grabbed the chipmunk again. Isaac went outside to keep the cat away from the poor chipmunk, and it worked well. We prayed for the chipmunk to be okay, but by the end of our prayer, it was out of it's misery. At least he didn't have to suffer longer. I hate sin. Just for the record. ;(

September 21, 2012 - Jadelyn hurt her arms (I don't remember how) and we used napkins as her "cast" (by Shelley) (I believe she fell down the stairs outside Uncle Donnie and Auntie Martha's  =O)


Hannah signing Jadelyn's cast (by Shelley)



September 22, 2012 - Kids fascinated by hailstorm at church (by Maggie Yelding)


September 22, 2012 - Enjoyed a bike ride around the lake tonight with the family. Tried out the new-for-us tandem attachment for Ruby and Isaac to ride behind David. (And I didn't even get any pictures! =O) Was a little afraid that this might have been too long a trip for thier maiden voyage, but it was a hit. Hopefully we'll go riding a whole lot more now. They were outgrowing the last get-up (one in front of and one behind David on his bike). How're my babies getting so stinking big! (I know, I know...relative to most other children their age "big" is not the appropriate term, but you know....)

September 25, 2012 - Jadelyn "ate" me as I was putting her down for her nap. Then she said, "I ate you up, so we have no Mom." "Why?" I asked. "'Cause I'm a lion". And she said it like it was perfectly normal and like it explained everything. That kid....

September 30, 2012 - This Dickerson family has a fleece out about some serious decisions we need to make...any prayers you could offer for us would be GREATLY appreciated. Really, really, REALLY feeling the need for prayers.

October 12, 2012 - I was playing the piano with Jadelyn this morning, when she asked, "are we playing the Vaseline one?" Not having a clue what she was talking about, I questionned her about it. She said something about "the vaseline arms one." Then I got it. And yes, we WERE playing, "Leaning on the EVERLASTING arms." Those poor kids probably don't get what hymns are really saying at ALL. 

November 10, 2012


November 12, 2012


November 18, 2012 - "It’s amazing how we get food on our foreheads when we’re just trying to get it in our mouths" – deep-in-thought-Ruby. HA!!!!!

December 12, 2012 - Happy 6th birthday to my oldest kiddiokies! I love you, Ruby and Isaac!!!!! 
   From Aliya: 12/12/12 today! Happy Birthday to my twin niece Ruby and nephew Isaac who, when you add their years together are a cumulative 12 years today! Good planning Kim and David.

December 17, 2012 - Was working with Ruby on her Memory Verse for Sabbath night’s homeschool Christmas Program at Grandma and Grandpa’s.

Me: “Now there was in that same country.”
Ruby: “What country?….Oh! Now there was is that same country…..”
Me: “Shepherd’s living…”
Ruby: “…in a house”.
Me: Disbelief.
Ruby: “Once upon a time…”

Ai. We have a bit of work to do!!! =O