Today at lunch, Isaac introduced us to his plans for two machines. One is a car, I believe, that has a button on it. When he gets older, he will push the button on the car and it will drive very, very fast to a nice person's house. He will marry that person. And he will call her "Mommy" and she can call him "Daddy". Ruby told him that the Mommy can call him "Isaac", but he wasn't to be persuaded. =)
Oh, and the other machine? What was it? See, I totally need to write things down right away. =P OH! It has to do with training his dog. Yes, that's it. He is going to have a machine to train his dog so that his dog won't be mean to his kids. All 11 of them. After the dog is trained, Isaac can then get some "sheepies". And I can come visit and ask, "may I pet your sheepies?" And Isaac will say "yes" and take me out into the pasture. For that is where he plans to live with his Mommy, 11 children, machines, sheepies, and dog. In our pasture. Ruby wanted to live in the pasture, too, but Isaac says there will not be room. His eyes lit up as he informed her that she could live in the woods by the bouncey tree so she can bounce whenever she feels like it. And, an added bonus that Isaac thought of, "YOU WON'T HAVE TO MOW!!!" Still, Ruby didn't like this idea. They settled on the idea of her living by the chicken shed. But not IN it, as Isaac suggested. He is planning on keeping his kids in a shed. So they don't get close to the fence. Or something. This kid and his ideas for caging up his children. Seriously. Where does he get THAT from? =P
David, oh, I mean "Alfred" is dressed up as a butler for work today. Including appropriate name-tag, "silver" (aluminum foil-covered) platter and goblet, tuxedo, white towel (he was supposed to borrow one of those from work), and painted-on handlebar mustache. Oh, yeah...he's a hottie! =)
And that is it for now!
Monday, October 31, 2011
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Catching up - again! =P
Last week we had what I believe is our first official prayer for forgiveness by one of our children on their own. Who was it? Little Jadelyn. For hitting Ruby, she was sent around the garden. She didn't want to complete it, so had a spanking for disobeying. She whimpered around the garden, and then came to me, where I was working in a strawberry patch. I hugged her and didn't say a word. Then, she started: "Dear Jesus.....dear Jesus.....dear Jesus" by this time I was going to jump in and help her, but then she continued on her own, "Forgive for hit Ruby. Amen."
My Isaac continues to be a thinker. He came up with some exercise to 'help' Ruby's hip. I told him that he is a good "exercise doctor". Ruby then asked him if that was what he was going to be when he grew up. He responded in the negative. So I probed further to discover what he would do when he grew up since he would need some money to support his LARGE family. (He informed me recently that he is going to need a dining room table bigger than ours so all his kids can fit around it. ;D) Isaac perked up, and informed me that he was going to have a "money machine" that will "make money!" Both coins and paper money. Thus taking away the need for him to have a job. Genius, 'eh? =P Good grief...I sure hope I can get this boy to enjoy good work!
We attended yet another 3 hour or so appointment at Shriner's last week. With a new doctor. Dr. Walker. The one who would actually do Ruby's surgery if surgery was necessary. I think. Anyhow, I was quite apprehensive about this appointment since the only rating for Dr. Walker on-line was negative - regarding her bedside manner, which is the problem I've been struggling with with the previous orthopedic surgeon. Anyways, I was very thankful to find her willing to listen to us AND Ruby. No other orthopedic surgeon has really LISTENED to Ruby. And what do you know? Because she talked to Ruby and listened to Ruby, she saw how Ruby "clicks" her hips. Ruby explained how she did it and showed the doctor. The doctor then asked Ruby to stop doing that, and turned and told us that she thinks Ruby is partially or completely dislocating her hip on her own. The doctor gave her hips some thorough examination and was unable to dislocate Ruby's hip, though it appears Ruby is able to do it. Strange, I think. Dr. Walker then told us that Ruby will probably need to be in a cast for 6 months with no surgery, or have surgery and then be in a cast for 6 weeks. She needs to consult with more doctors as to the best plan of action, and we're supposed to hear back next week. In the meantime, we've been doing the exercises that a PT gave to us to do and hoping that Ruby's muscles will get stronger and pull her leg back into the hip socket. Not real likely, I don't think, but hey, it is SURE worth the try! When Ruby complains about the exercises, I remind her that the exercises are WAY better than a cast would be. OH! The first day after our appointment, Ruby sought me out asking to exercise. I love that gal's motivation! Anyhow...that was a real side-track. =O After meeting with the doctor and the PT, it was off to meet with the social worker, Faith, for a referral to a neurologist. She got the appointment set up while we were there, so we're off to meet up with Dr. Farjam Farzam (name just cracks me up!) on November 7. Bright and early. Hopefully the kids (and David and I) will survive!
After our LONG appointment, we went to a park for a picnic and bike ride. It was Jadelyn's first "real" bike ride, and she was a trooper, albeit slow. The kids rode for over a mile and a half, I think. I was so proud! There were some big 'ole hills to get up, and Isaac commented at some point, "I wish I had a motor". Ha! =) Ruby rides her bike like a crazy woman. David said that he thinks Ruby will do real well in school with "book smarts" and all, but he's not sure he wants to ride with her when she starts driving! She'll be pedaling along and all the sudden, WHAM! Brakes go on all the way until she stops. One time, she left a good 7 foot or so skid-mark behind her. =) All or nothin' with that gal. It also tickled my funny bone to no end watching her run and have to constantly swipe at her pants to keep them up. Poor skinny gal. ;)
Ruby was talking to David on the phone the other day, when I heard her ask him if he would stay on the phone while she switched the phone to her other ear. Ha. Not sure how long she anticipated the switch was going to take! =) Then, when she was all done switching, she got back on the phone and informed David that it was "still Ruby, your daughter". Oh, that girl!
I don't remember exactly what happened, but David commented to Ruby that it must be "rough being a little girl." Ruby then replied something to the effect of it being "even rougher being a grown-up" and having a baby and not having a job and having to go to jail. This said because we met someone at church last year who had to go to jail for not paying child support. David then had to explain about how some parents don't live together and stuff. I'm still not sure Ruby got it all. =P
Ruby and I finally got the couch vacuumed under the cushions. It was getting kinda nasty. Anyways, when we were done, Isaac took the vacuum apart so I could empty the container. After the dust around the trash can settled down, one of the kids found a button in the garbage and rescued it, placing it on the counter. Well, sometime, it must've gotten knocked down, because I rescued it out of the dirt pile after sweeping the kitchen. I think that rescued button belongs on one of David's dress shirts. I should check that out sometime.
We were writing a thank-you note to a boy and his Mom who gave Isaac a book. Isaac was spouting off what he wanted me to write in the note, and then very seriously told me not to write that he couldn't have the book read to him because he peed his pants because that might make them feel sad. Ha! Took me a bit to get what he was talking about - one day he picked that book for storytime, but he had peed in his pants, so instead of getting a story, he had to change his pants, so he missed out. That silly boy. Someday, SOMEDAY, he will keep his pants dry ALL THE TIME. Last night while at someone else's house, he asked to use the bathroom. I was proud of him, because times like that he is more prone to wet his pants than others, because he's enjoying himself so much and stuff, I guess.
We've been teaching the kids about 9-1-1 lately. Stressing to not practice on the phone unless Daddy is there to make sure they don't hit the "talk" button. Anyhow, at lunch today, they were practicing away. Isaac was the 9-1-1 operator, and Ruby was the caller. They both learned our address today, too. I was so proud! OH! And last night, Ruby remembered when her birthday is for the first time. I was so proud! OH! AND Ruby learned to play a good sized portion of "Jesus Loves me" on the piano today. I was so proud! =)
At during naptime prayers, Ruby told Jesus, "I love you, Jesus. For real. Like I sing in Jesus Loves me." Or something. I sure do love listening to their prayers!
My Isaac continues to be a thinker. He came up with some exercise to 'help' Ruby's hip. I told him that he is a good "exercise doctor". Ruby then asked him if that was what he was going to be when he grew up. He responded in the negative. So I probed further to discover what he would do when he grew up since he would need some money to support his LARGE family. (He informed me recently that he is going to need a dining room table bigger than ours so all his kids can fit around it. ;D) Isaac perked up, and informed me that he was going to have a "money machine" that will "make money!" Both coins and paper money. Thus taking away the need for him to have a job. Genius, 'eh? =P Good grief...I sure hope I can get this boy to enjoy good work!
We attended yet another 3 hour or so appointment at Shriner's last week. With a new doctor. Dr. Walker. The one who would actually do Ruby's surgery if surgery was necessary. I think. Anyhow, I was quite apprehensive about this appointment since the only rating for Dr. Walker on-line was negative - regarding her bedside manner, which is the problem I've been struggling with with the previous orthopedic surgeon. Anyways, I was very thankful to find her willing to listen to us AND Ruby. No other orthopedic surgeon has really LISTENED to Ruby. And what do you know? Because she talked to Ruby and listened to Ruby, she saw how Ruby "clicks" her hips. Ruby explained how she did it and showed the doctor. The doctor then asked Ruby to stop doing that, and turned and told us that she thinks Ruby is partially or completely dislocating her hip on her own. The doctor gave her hips some thorough examination and was unable to dislocate Ruby's hip, though it appears Ruby is able to do it. Strange, I think. Dr. Walker then told us that Ruby will probably need to be in a cast for 6 months with no surgery, or have surgery and then be in a cast for 6 weeks. She needs to consult with more doctors as to the best plan of action, and we're supposed to hear back next week. In the meantime, we've been doing the exercises that a PT gave to us to do and hoping that Ruby's muscles will get stronger and pull her leg back into the hip socket. Not real likely, I don't think, but hey, it is SURE worth the try! When Ruby complains about the exercises, I remind her that the exercises are WAY better than a cast would be. OH! The first day after our appointment, Ruby sought me out asking to exercise. I love that gal's motivation! Anyhow...that was a real side-track. =O After meeting with the doctor and the PT, it was off to meet with the social worker, Faith, for a referral to a neurologist. She got the appointment set up while we were there, so we're off to meet up with Dr. Farjam Farzam (name just cracks me up!) on November 7. Bright and early. Hopefully the kids (and David and I) will survive!
After our LONG appointment, we went to a park for a picnic and bike ride. It was Jadelyn's first "real" bike ride, and she was a trooper, albeit slow. The kids rode for over a mile and a half, I think. I was so proud! There were some big 'ole hills to get up, and Isaac commented at some point, "I wish I had a motor". Ha! =) Ruby rides her bike like a crazy woman. David said that he thinks Ruby will do real well in school with "book smarts" and all, but he's not sure he wants to ride with her when she starts driving! She'll be pedaling along and all the sudden, WHAM! Brakes go on all the way until she stops. One time, she left a good 7 foot or so skid-mark behind her. =) All or nothin' with that gal. It also tickled my funny bone to no end watching her run and have to constantly swipe at her pants to keep them up. Poor skinny gal. ;)
Ruby was talking to David on the phone the other day, when I heard her ask him if he would stay on the phone while she switched the phone to her other ear. Ha. Not sure how long she anticipated the switch was going to take! =) Then, when she was all done switching, she got back on the phone and informed David that it was "still Ruby, your daughter". Oh, that girl!
I don't remember exactly what happened, but David commented to Ruby that it must be "rough being a little girl." Ruby then replied something to the effect of it being "even rougher being a grown-up" and having a baby and not having a job and having to go to jail. This said because we met someone at church last year who had to go to jail for not paying child support. David then had to explain about how some parents don't live together and stuff. I'm still not sure Ruby got it all. =P
Ruby and I finally got the couch vacuumed under the cushions. It was getting kinda nasty. Anyways, when we were done, Isaac took the vacuum apart so I could empty the container. After the dust around the trash can settled down, one of the kids found a button in the garbage and rescued it, placing it on the counter. Well, sometime, it must've gotten knocked down, because I rescued it out of the dirt pile after sweeping the kitchen. I think that rescued button belongs on one of David's dress shirts. I should check that out sometime.
We were writing a thank-you note to a boy and his Mom who gave Isaac a book. Isaac was spouting off what he wanted me to write in the note, and then very seriously told me not to write that he couldn't have the book read to him because he peed his pants because that might make them feel sad. Ha! Took me a bit to get what he was talking about - one day he picked that book for storytime, but he had peed in his pants, so instead of getting a story, he had to change his pants, so he missed out. That silly boy. Someday, SOMEDAY, he will keep his pants dry ALL THE TIME. Last night while at someone else's house, he asked to use the bathroom. I was proud of him, because times like that he is more prone to wet his pants than others, because he's enjoying himself so much and stuff, I guess.
We've been teaching the kids about 9-1-1 lately. Stressing to not practice on the phone unless Daddy is there to make sure they don't hit the "talk" button. Anyhow, at lunch today, they were practicing away. Isaac was the 9-1-1 operator, and Ruby was the caller. They both learned our address today, too. I was so proud! OH! And last night, Ruby remembered when her birthday is for the first time. I was so proud! OH! AND Ruby learned to play a good sized portion of "Jesus Loves me" on the piano today. I was so proud! =)
At during naptime prayers, Ruby told Jesus, "I love you, Jesus. For real. Like I sing in Jesus Loves me." Or something. I sure do love listening to their prayers!
Monday, October 24, 2011
Oh, my, am I ever behind!
And Isaac (at least I THINK it was Isaac =O) had such a good quote this morning, I almost posted it to Facebook (haven't posted a kid story there since May, I don't think), but I DIDN'T WRITE IT DOWN, SO THEREFORE FORGOT IT! Huff.
Okay, to my notes of things that I DID manage to write down. =P
Jadelyn was holding her chin and informed me that she hurt her "knee". Huh.
Jadelyn brought a magna doodle over to Isaac and said, "you're welcome" with a smile. No, no "thank you" was given to respond "you're welcome" to, but hey! She's learning! =)
When putting Jadelyn to bed, she asked for a "'nother manket" (another blanket). That's what she often calls her quilt. This time, though, she was referring to a big-kids-blanket that stays tucked into the mattress like Ruby and Isaac have. I really should be moving her to a big-kids-bed soon, but AHHHHH!!!! =P
When her hair is not done, Jadelyn is hard to see underneath all that hair hanging in her face. One morning, Jadelyn was saying that she needed the "face out Nini's hair". HA! Now I know for sure what is more predominant! =)
At nighttime prayers, Jadelyn said, "thank you Daddy." Daddy asked her if perhaps she could thank Jesus for Mommy, Ruby, and Isaac, too. Jadelyn then prayed, "thank you Daddy, Ruby, Isaac, Nini, Amen". Daddy again prompted her to say thank you for Mommy. Jadelyn then prayed again, "Thank you Jesus, Amen". Persistent Daddy tried AGAIN to get Jadelyn to thank Jesus for Mommy. Jadelyn's final prayer? "Thank you Jesus, Mommy, Amen." David decided, "4th try's the charm". =) Good thing I know that Lynnie really DOES love me, 'eh?
The kids are all experiencing some super chapping around their lips/chin/whatever, so at night we slather 'em up with Vaseline. Jadelyn keeps her lips really still after this application. One night she said "night night" or "bye bye" or something - hey, I didn't write down the specifics in my note! - like a ventriloquist. Cracks me up. She's not really doing it much anymore, though. Rats.
David and I recently had an "ah-HA!" moment regarding Isaac's brain processes. David thinks that perhaps Isaac thinks in pictures. This would explain why Isaac doesn't know his colors, but can point out what matches other things. Or how he once exclaimed of one of those big white crosses by freeways, "Mom, there's a cross that is like Daddy's underwear!" Oh, man...that just cracks me up. =) This picture-thinking-theory would also explain why Isaac calls his toenails his "bottom ones" when getting fingernails and toenails clipped. It would ALSO explain why when I tell Isaac he can just put something in the washing machine he always asks, "the wet one?" Who needs formal names for things, anyhow? =P The picture-thinking-theory would NOT, however, explain this little story: It was time for Isaac to do a last potty time. He went into the bathroom, checked to see if his underwear was wet or dry (he can only tell by LOOKING sometimes instead of being able to FEEL if it's wet. Oh, wait - that's back to the visual thing. But I digress.), and then informed me of his findings. It was either dry or just a TINY wet. I don't remember. ANYHOW! I then asked him if he went potty, but little man didn't know. AHHHHH!!! So, I sent him back to try. That kid is about as distracted as his father at times. Hmmm....
Ruby was on the "phone" the other day when her side of the conversation caught my attention: there is a "lion in our house. It's killed a lot of penguins. And the penguins are eating the lion. And it's eating an owl, too. And it stinks....I love you, bye, bye." Awful nonchalant, I think. ;)
My three kiddos were stomping around in my "stompers" (aka "heels") when Isaac informed his sisters, "there's wet water on the road. WET." Right. Opposed to "dry water", 'eh? =)
Ruby wanted to help me vacuum the other day. It was going along smoothly until Ruby noticed something - "I'm so crazy, I'm vacuuming when the vacuum's not on." Oh, no!!! Not another crazy distracted child!!!! =O
Overheard Isaac talking to Jadelyn: if you need help, say, "Isaac, come help me, please! And I will come." That kid just melts my hard little heart.
I was in the kitchen while Jadelyn was sitting on the couch "reading" a book when I hit something and exclaimed, "OW!" Jadelyn immediately reacted to my pain, "I kiss you!" I expected her to clamor off the couch and come kiss my owie, but no. She sat on the couch with the biggest pucker directed toward me. I went over to her and THEN received my kiss. =)
When coming back from visiting our top-notch neighbors, Ruby commented that she didn't see the moon. Followed by this reasoning, "maybe the moon is at someone else's house tonight so they can enjoy it." Awww.
Isaac was talking about a whale fin when he declared, "I'll call this a paddle to row itself along."
Ruby informed me while in the bathroom to do her hair and teeth that toothpaste is "not good for your belly." Or Vaseline. "Or toys. Toys are definitely not good for your belly."
Yesterday Ruby decided to come spend some time inside where I was instead of outside with David, Isaac, and Jadelyn. But before she left, she had a request for David, "tell your children I love them." I'm so glad my kids say, "I love you" so much! =)
Today I witnessed the sweetest thing EVER. Today, the kids were allowed to go to a certain place in the woods all by themselves for the first time. I could see them in that certain place from where I was trying to reclaim one of the strawberry patches from the weeds. Anyhow, they are just LOVIN' the woods. We hadn't gone back there for about 4 months due to getting TERRIBLE chigger bites last time we ventured back there. Anyhow. Back to the sweetest thing EVER. Ruby and Isaac wanted to "adventure" out of the woods a different way than the tried and true trail. They did this "adventure" several times yesterday with Daddy-o. Anyhow, off they went. They went too fast for Jadelyn speed, so Jadelyn and I went back on the tried-and-true-trail. We were at the end of their "adventure" walk waiting for them. They asked if they could go back the other way, and I told them they could, so off they went. Jadelyn then decided that she wanted to go, too. I wasn't wanting to go, so I said that I was staying, but she could go with Isaac if she wanted. (Ruby was already off to the races and outta-there!) So, off she went. Isaac waited at the bottom of the hill for her, but when Jadelyn started running into trouble, he climbed back up to be by her, held her hand, and walked her down the hill. Then, he proceeded to take more than twice as long as it would have taken him had he gone by himself, so that Jadelyn could keep up with him. He encouraged her, helped her, gave her directions, and stayed so sweetly patient. At the end, I had two happy hikers (well, three, but Ruby was WAY done by then). And I got some pictures of the admiration the two CAN share for each other. My words don't give it justice. I was so proud of my Isaac and what a good big brother he is!
Well, tomorrow is a bright-and-early trip back to Shriner's to meet with a different orthopedic surgeon about a "procedure" or something. Guess we'll find out what that's all about tomorrow! I need to hit the hay!
Okay, to my notes of things that I DID manage to write down. =P
Jadelyn was holding her chin and informed me that she hurt her "knee". Huh.
Jadelyn brought a magna doodle over to Isaac and said, "you're welcome" with a smile. No, no "thank you" was given to respond "you're welcome" to, but hey! She's learning! =)
When putting Jadelyn to bed, she asked for a "'nother manket" (another blanket). That's what she often calls her quilt. This time, though, she was referring to a big-kids-blanket that stays tucked into the mattress like Ruby and Isaac have. I really should be moving her to a big-kids-bed soon, but AHHHHH!!!! =P
When her hair is not done, Jadelyn is hard to see underneath all that hair hanging in her face. One morning, Jadelyn was saying that she needed the "face out Nini's hair". HA! Now I know for sure what is more predominant! =)
At nighttime prayers, Jadelyn said, "thank you Daddy." Daddy asked her if perhaps she could thank Jesus for Mommy, Ruby, and Isaac, too. Jadelyn then prayed, "thank you Daddy, Ruby, Isaac, Nini, Amen". Daddy again prompted her to say thank you for Mommy. Jadelyn then prayed again, "Thank you Jesus, Amen". Persistent Daddy tried AGAIN to get Jadelyn to thank Jesus for Mommy. Jadelyn's final prayer? "Thank you Jesus, Mommy, Amen." David decided, "4th try's the charm". =) Good thing I know that Lynnie really DOES love me, 'eh?
The kids are all experiencing some super chapping around their lips/chin/whatever, so at night we slather 'em up with Vaseline. Jadelyn keeps her lips really still after this application. One night she said "night night" or "bye bye" or something - hey, I didn't write down the specifics in my note! - like a ventriloquist. Cracks me up. She's not really doing it much anymore, though. Rats.
David and I recently had an "ah-HA!" moment regarding Isaac's brain processes. David thinks that perhaps Isaac thinks in pictures. This would explain why Isaac doesn't know his colors, but can point out what matches other things. Or how he once exclaimed of one of those big white crosses by freeways, "Mom, there's a cross that is like Daddy's underwear!" Oh, man...that just cracks me up. =) This picture-thinking-theory would also explain why Isaac calls his toenails his "bottom ones" when getting fingernails and toenails clipped. It would ALSO explain why when I tell Isaac he can just put something in the washing machine he always asks, "the wet one?" Who needs formal names for things, anyhow? =P The picture-thinking-theory would NOT, however, explain this little story: It was time for Isaac to do a last potty time. He went into the bathroom, checked to see if his underwear was wet or dry (he can only tell by LOOKING sometimes instead of being able to FEEL if it's wet. Oh, wait - that's back to the visual thing. But I digress.), and then informed me of his findings. It was either dry or just a TINY wet. I don't remember. ANYHOW! I then asked him if he went potty, but little man didn't know. AHHHHH!!! So, I sent him back to try. That kid is about as distracted as his father at times. Hmmm....
Ruby was on the "phone" the other day when her side of the conversation caught my attention: there is a "lion in our house. It's killed a lot of penguins. And the penguins are eating the lion. And it's eating an owl, too. And it stinks....I love you, bye, bye." Awful nonchalant, I think. ;)
My three kiddos were stomping around in my "stompers" (aka "heels") when Isaac informed his sisters, "there's wet water on the road. WET." Right. Opposed to "dry water", 'eh? =)
Ruby wanted to help me vacuum the other day. It was going along smoothly until Ruby noticed something - "I'm so crazy, I'm vacuuming when the vacuum's not on." Oh, no!!! Not another crazy distracted child!!!! =O
Overheard Isaac talking to Jadelyn: if you need help, say, "Isaac, come help me, please! And I will come." That kid just melts my hard little heart.
I was in the kitchen while Jadelyn was sitting on the couch "reading" a book when I hit something and exclaimed, "OW!" Jadelyn immediately reacted to my pain, "I kiss you!" I expected her to clamor off the couch and come kiss my owie, but no. She sat on the couch with the biggest pucker directed toward me. I went over to her and THEN received my kiss. =)
When coming back from visiting our top-notch neighbors, Ruby commented that she didn't see the moon. Followed by this reasoning, "maybe the moon is at someone else's house tonight so they can enjoy it." Awww.
Isaac was talking about a whale fin when he declared, "I'll call this a paddle to row itself along."
Ruby informed me while in the bathroom to do her hair and teeth that toothpaste is "not good for your belly." Or Vaseline. "Or toys. Toys are definitely not good for your belly."
Yesterday Ruby decided to come spend some time inside where I was instead of outside with David, Isaac, and Jadelyn. But before she left, she had a request for David, "tell your children I love them." I'm so glad my kids say, "I love you" so much! =)
Today I witnessed the sweetest thing EVER. Today, the kids were allowed to go to a certain place in the woods all by themselves for the first time. I could see them in that certain place from where I was trying to reclaim one of the strawberry patches from the weeds. Anyhow, they are just LOVIN' the woods. We hadn't gone back there for about 4 months due to getting TERRIBLE chigger bites last time we ventured back there. Anyhow. Back to the sweetest thing EVER. Ruby and Isaac wanted to "adventure" out of the woods a different way than the tried and true trail. They did this "adventure" several times yesterday with Daddy-o. Anyhow, off they went. They went too fast for Jadelyn speed, so Jadelyn and I went back on the tried-and-true-trail. We were at the end of their "adventure" walk waiting for them. They asked if they could go back the other way, and I told them they could, so off they went. Jadelyn then decided that she wanted to go, too. I wasn't wanting to go, so I said that I was staying, but she could go with Isaac if she wanted. (Ruby was already off to the races and outta-there!) So, off she went. Isaac waited at the bottom of the hill for her, but when Jadelyn started running into trouble, he climbed back up to be by her, held her hand, and walked her down the hill. Then, he proceeded to take more than twice as long as it would have taken him had he gone by himself, so that Jadelyn could keep up with him. He encouraged her, helped her, gave her directions, and stayed so sweetly patient. At the end, I had two happy hikers (well, three, but Ruby was WAY done by then). And I got some pictures of the admiration the two CAN share for each other. My words don't give it justice. I was so proud of my Isaac and what a good big brother he is!
Well, tomorrow is a bright-and-early trip back to Shriner's to meet with a different orthopedic surgeon about a "procedure" or something. Guess we'll find out what that's all about tomorrow! I need to hit the hay!
Monday, October 17, 2011
Oh, the sweetness!
Over the weekend, Ruby was offering to read Jadelyn a story. But she had a disclaimer, "I won't get all the words right 'cause I don't know how to read yet". Today, it was a similar disclaimer, followed by, "but I'll do the best I can" or something to that effect. I love how Jadelyn and Isaac listen with rapt attention, though Ruby's babbling-stringing-together-of-preaching-sounding-words-at-times make little to no sense.
On Sabbath, we were getting ready to go for a walk to visit the neighbors horses, which the kids all love, though Jadelyn informed me now that "I scared" of them. =P Anyways, David was trying to distract Hickory so Ruby could get his leash on. It wasn't working well. Ruby then busts out asking David to put the leash on because "I'm not a dog one". Oooooh! =) Hickory is just a crazy hyper dog, and I don't blame Ruby at all. I just thought it was a funny excuse.
Early yesterday morning, David took Isaac to a deacon's meeting. Before they left, Isaac went around giving everyone hugs. Precious. Ruby was absolutely heartbroken that she didn't get to go. So was Jadelyn, who was standing out on the porch in her jammies and tennis shoes to wave goodbye saying that she was leaving, too. Isaac asked David to roll down the windows even though it was cold out so he could say "goodbye" to Ruby and Lynnie. Sweet boy. After the car pulled out, Jadelyn informed me that she was leaving in the van. Sweet, delusional Lynnie. Anyways, back to sad, sad Ruby, who was crying in her room. I went in with Jadelyn to see Ruby, and sat Jadelyn on Isaac's bed. Jadelyn said, "sorry, Ruby", trying her best to console her broken-hearted sister, but to no avail. Ruby continued to be sad. Well a few minutes after they left, I called David for something, and somehow I ended up talking to Isaac. But just very briefly, before he asked to talk to Ruby and Jadelyn. The "rejection" didn't hurt my feelings at all, I was just so glad he loved his sisters so much! Well, he talked to Lynnie for a while, who answered the phone, "hi-low, Isaac!", and then, to Ruby. She brightened right up and had a lovely conversation with her brother. It was one of the sweetest things I've ever seen. They are so not used to being apart, and they both seemed to miss each other after just a few minutes. Not that they can't survive apart, because they did, but they just LOVE each other! I asked them the other day what it's like to be a twin, since I've never been one. Ruby said it was fun to play with her twin, and Isaac? Well, he was being ornery and said that being a twin isn't fun. =P Whatever, Buddy-boy. Anyways, they really do love each other. Note to self: remember this story every time they're trying to pull each other's hair out. (Not literally, of course. =P) Anyways, after talking to Isaac, Ruby ended up talking to David, and at the end of the phone conversation, she said, "bye, bye, sweethear....Daddy". Ooops. Guess she caught herself parroting David, that time. ;)
This morning, Jadelyn was singing at the top of her lungs, "This Nini's stoooory!!!" to the tune of "This is My Story!" She sure knows how to personalize things, lately. =)
At the breakfast table, we were talking about the new "dry diaper charts" for Ruby and Isaac's nighttime diapers. If they keep their diaper dry, they get to put a smiley face on their charts. Well, we mentioned "smiley faces", and Jadelyn piped in, "Nini's smiley face!" showing us her cheezy grin. Cracks me up.
The kids have started on their new morning checklists today in an effort to curb Isaac's slothfulness in his work. Well, Jadelyn kept me updated this morning, yelling from Isaac's room to me in the kitchen, "Buddy's all done blankets!" Guess she's excited about his quick work, too.
Outside today, the kids enjoyed more running and gate climbing, as well as playing in the sandbox (haven't done that in a long time), and picking seed pods or something off the big sycamore tree. Man, were they ever having a ball, giggling and laughing and carrying on, not even having a problem when they were getting caught in thorns. Crazy kids. I love 'em.
On Sabbath, we were getting ready to go for a walk to visit the neighbors horses, which the kids all love, though Jadelyn informed me now that "I scared" of them. =P Anyways, David was trying to distract Hickory so Ruby could get his leash on. It wasn't working well. Ruby then busts out asking David to put the leash on because "I'm not a dog one". Oooooh! =) Hickory is just a crazy hyper dog, and I don't blame Ruby at all. I just thought it was a funny excuse.
Early yesterday morning, David took Isaac to a deacon's meeting. Before they left, Isaac went around giving everyone hugs. Precious. Ruby was absolutely heartbroken that she didn't get to go. So was Jadelyn, who was standing out on the porch in her jammies and tennis shoes to wave goodbye saying that she was leaving, too. Isaac asked David to roll down the windows even though it was cold out so he could say "goodbye" to Ruby and Lynnie. Sweet boy. After the car pulled out, Jadelyn informed me that she was leaving in the van. Sweet, delusional Lynnie. Anyways, back to sad, sad Ruby, who was crying in her room. I went in with Jadelyn to see Ruby, and sat Jadelyn on Isaac's bed. Jadelyn said, "sorry, Ruby", trying her best to console her broken-hearted sister, but to no avail. Ruby continued to be sad. Well a few minutes after they left, I called David for something, and somehow I ended up talking to Isaac. But just very briefly, before he asked to talk to Ruby and Jadelyn. The "rejection" didn't hurt my feelings at all, I was just so glad he loved his sisters so much! Well, he talked to Lynnie for a while, who answered the phone, "hi-low, Isaac!", and then, to Ruby. She brightened right up and had a lovely conversation with her brother. It was one of the sweetest things I've ever seen. They are so not used to being apart, and they both seemed to miss each other after just a few minutes. Not that they can't survive apart, because they did, but they just LOVE each other! I asked them the other day what it's like to be a twin, since I've never been one. Ruby said it was fun to play with her twin, and Isaac? Well, he was being ornery and said that being a twin isn't fun. =P Whatever, Buddy-boy. Anyways, they really do love each other. Note to self: remember this story every time they're trying to pull each other's hair out. (Not literally, of course. =P) Anyways, after talking to Isaac, Ruby ended up talking to David, and at the end of the phone conversation, she said, "bye, bye, sweethear....Daddy". Ooops. Guess she caught herself parroting David, that time. ;)
This morning, Jadelyn was singing at the top of her lungs, "This Nini's stoooory!!!" to the tune of "This is My Story!" She sure knows how to personalize things, lately. =)
At the breakfast table, we were talking about the new "dry diaper charts" for Ruby and Isaac's nighttime diapers. If they keep their diaper dry, they get to put a smiley face on their charts. Well, we mentioned "smiley faces", and Jadelyn piped in, "Nini's smiley face!" showing us her cheezy grin. Cracks me up.
The kids have started on their new morning checklists today in an effort to curb Isaac's slothfulness in his work. Well, Jadelyn kept me updated this morning, yelling from Isaac's room to me in the kitchen, "Buddy's all done blankets!" Guess she's excited about his quick work, too.
Outside today, the kids enjoyed more running and gate climbing, as well as playing in the sandbox (haven't done that in a long time), and picking seed pods or something off the big sycamore tree. Man, were they ever having a ball, giggling and laughing and carrying on, not even having a problem when they were getting caught in thorns. Crazy kids. I love 'em.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Kid Stories
Ruby and Isaac were proud parents of a baby (doll) yesterday. I forget why, but their baby had to have a shot. But not to worry, Ruby (I think) said that there was a sign that said the baby would only bleed for half a minute. I have never noticed these types of signs at doctor's offices. Maybe I'm not looking hard enough? =P
Jadelyn went looking for her big siblings yesterday. Upon finding them, she questioned, "Ah doing, guys?" Ha. I love that girl. And how she starts many things with "Ah" before saying what she wants to. Crazy Lynnie.
Jadelyn and I have been having some miniature "potty talks". You know, like this, "Jadelyn, when you go on the potty all the time, you can wear underwear!" Or "Jadelyn, when you go poopy on the potty, you won't have poopy all over your bottom!" Yeah, I know. =P Anyways, we've also talked about how gum is for kids who go on the potty. Yesterday, Jadelyn stood in the hallway, and told me "Ah poopy out" (informing me she had just pooped, which she did NOT, for the record) before asking me if she could have gum. Um...I think she missed the part about gum being for people who poop IN the potty. If I rewarded that child with gum for every time she pooped, I'd be in the poorhouse. How's THAT for WAY too much information? =O
Jadelyn was speedily riding her bike around the house yesterday while singing over and over again, "Jesus moves (rhymed with "loves") me!" I love that kid!
Yesterday we were listening to the General Store on the radio where people call in and say what they have to sell, give away, trade, want, etc. Suddenly, Ruby perked up, "what's that?" she asked. I told her it was a kid in the background on the radio. She then informed me why she looked so surprised, "I thought it was an Amish one yelling real loud." Yeah, 'cause those Amish neighbors are SO noisy. Or not. No WONDER she looked shocked! =)
Yesterday Isaac was wearing some "new" (for him, anyways) sweatpants that I took in so they would fit him better. (But alas, I didn't take them in enough. =O) Anyways, Ruby complimented Isaac on his "new" pants: "Isaac, you look like a handsome fandsome". Ha! Oh, yeah...Ruby TOTALLY has the hang of this rhyming thing down now. =)
Yesterday, Ruby again chose a book about Cambodia as her story. Today's section involved the history of the country including Pol Pot. I know, I know...what in the world am I reading my children?!?!?! =O David picked the book out at "Mighty Dollar", and I hadn't pre-read it. =O Anyways...the kids had LOTS of questions. Like why Pol Pot was smiling in his picture. We talked about how Jesus made us to be good, but He lets us choose if we are going to follow Him or Satan. At some point I said how Pol Pot had killed "hundreds and hundreds and hundreds and hundreds and hundreds...." of people. Today, when David came home, Isaac drug the book back out, showed him the little picture of Pol Pot and informed David that Pol Pot had killed "dozens and dozens" of people. Somehow it got downgraded. But Isaac is quite wide-eyed about there being such an evil man. Ruby pointed out when we were reading that we don't know anyone that evil. Thankfully not! Well, besides Satan himself, of course. =P
I came to a new low yesterday. While playing Memory with Ruby, I was whooped on. By a 4 year-old. Without ANY intention of letting that happen. I didn't help her find matches, and didn't purposely not find matches that I knew of. This is the second time this has happened. The first was a long time ago. But this time? Ruby ended up with 10 matches, and I got a lowly 5. How did she get so big? Today she was asking me why she was paying better attention to the game than I was. Um, you weren't! I just have an old brain, and luck was on your side! =O No, I didn't really tell her that.
Another low of yesterday...I was grudgingly getting ready to mop when I remembered "ding!" I have a new mop! I think my face literally lit up and I hurried off to get it. Then I realized how pitiful this was. Ha! Well, I wasn't alone in my excitement. Isaac happily helped me rip the plastic off the mop, and Ruby did some mopping herself. Quite well, too. So well during her last turn, in fact, that I didn't have to mop over any of her area. Isaac wanted to help, too, but that didn't work out. Logistical issues. BUT! Did I blog about how Isaac helped me put straw down around the berries the other day? One day, he laid little squares of straw down the row I was working on so I didn't have to go back and grab any straw. SUPER handy. And then, he actually helped me spread it around the little patch of blackberries a day later. He's a natural. And I'm so proud. =)
Today, Isaac was sent around the garden for 3 trips due to a bad attitude. A few short minutes (or maybe less than that?) Ruby was also sent out for some infraction. I think it was a crazy fit because Jadelyn had something or took something or something. =P Anyways, I watched out the window. Ruby was standing at her starting point. Isaac was paused around the garden some, looking at Ruby. He stayed there as Ruby walked toward him. Then, when she got close, he reached his sweet little hand out toward her, and grabbed her hand. That stopped soon, but they walked on side-by-side. Next time I looked out, they were having a grand time and holding hands. Ruby waited for Isaac to get up one time after he fell (still happy). When they were done, they came back inside, happy-as-clams. (If clams are really happy, that is.) Soon after, out they went again, this time followed by Jadelyn, for much running fun - around the house, around the garden, around the house, around the garden, out to the barn....then they got distracted by the green gate which they climbed on 'til it was time to come inside for lunch. I love, love, LOVE watching them run around outside! So thankful to have a place they can run! Our last house had a BUSY road in front of it, and a not-so-busy-two-track-like-thing right behind it. I LOVE the country! =) Ruby? She loves folding laundry. =) She informed me today, while helping me fold laundry, that when she is a grown-up, she is going to fold laundry all the time. Ha. Glad I'm not the only nerd in this house. =)
Jadelyn went looking for her big siblings yesterday. Upon finding them, she questioned, "Ah doing, guys?" Ha. I love that girl. And how she starts many things with "Ah" before saying what she wants to. Crazy Lynnie.
Jadelyn and I have been having some miniature "potty talks". You know, like this, "Jadelyn, when you go on the potty all the time, you can wear underwear!" Or "Jadelyn, when you go poopy on the potty, you won't have poopy all over your bottom!" Yeah, I know. =P Anyways, we've also talked about how gum is for kids who go on the potty. Yesterday, Jadelyn stood in the hallway, and told me "Ah poopy out" (informing me she had just pooped, which she did NOT, for the record) before asking me if she could have gum. Um...I think she missed the part about gum being for people who poop IN the potty. If I rewarded that child with gum for every time she pooped, I'd be in the poorhouse. How's THAT for WAY too much information? =O
Jadelyn was speedily riding her bike around the house yesterday while singing over and over again, "Jesus moves (rhymed with "loves") me!" I love that kid!
Yesterday we were listening to the General Store on the radio where people call in and say what they have to sell, give away, trade, want, etc. Suddenly, Ruby perked up, "what's that?" she asked. I told her it was a kid in the background on the radio. She then informed me why she looked so surprised, "I thought it was an Amish one yelling real loud." Yeah, 'cause those Amish neighbors are SO noisy. Or not. No WONDER she looked shocked! =)
Yesterday Isaac was wearing some "new" (for him, anyways) sweatpants that I took in so they would fit him better. (But alas, I didn't take them in enough. =O) Anyways, Ruby complimented Isaac on his "new" pants: "Isaac, you look like a handsome fandsome". Ha! Oh, yeah...Ruby TOTALLY has the hang of this rhyming thing down now. =)
Yesterday, Ruby again chose a book about Cambodia as her story. Today's section involved the history of the country including Pol Pot. I know, I know...what in the world am I reading my children?!?!?! =O David picked the book out at "Mighty Dollar", and I hadn't pre-read it. =O Anyways...the kids had LOTS of questions. Like why Pol Pot was smiling in his picture. We talked about how Jesus made us to be good, but He lets us choose if we are going to follow Him or Satan. At some point I said how Pol Pot had killed "hundreds and hundreds and hundreds and hundreds and hundreds...." of people. Today, when David came home, Isaac drug the book back out, showed him the little picture of Pol Pot and informed David that Pol Pot had killed "dozens and dozens" of people. Somehow it got downgraded. But Isaac is quite wide-eyed about there being such an evil man. Ruby pointed out when we were reading that we don't know anyone that evil. Thankfully not! Well, besides Satan himself, of course. =P
I came to a new low yesterday. While playing Memory with Ruby, I was whooped on. By a 4 year-old. Without ANY intention of letting that happen. I didn't help her find matches, and didn't purposely not find matches that I knew of. This is the second time this has happened. The first was a long time ago. But this time? Ruby ended up with 10 matches, and I got a lowly 5. How did she get so big? Today she was asking me why she was paying better attention to the game than I was. Um, you weren't! I just have an old brain, and luck was on your side! =O No, I didn't really tell her that.
Another low of yesterday...I was grudgingly getting ready to mop when I remembered "ding!" I have a new mop! I think my face literally lit up and I hurried off to get it. Then I realized how pitiful this was. Ha! Well, I wasn't alone in my excitement. Isaac happily helped me rip the plastic off the mop, and Ruby did some mopping herself. Quite well, too. So well during her last turn, in fact, that I didn't have to mop over any of her area. Isaac wanted to help, too, but that didn't work out. Logistical issues. BUT! Did I blog about how Isaac helped me put straw down around the berries the other day? One day, he laid little squares of straw down the row I was working on so I didn't have to go back and grab any straw. SUPER handy. And then, he actually helped me spread it around the little patch of blackberries a day later. He's a natural. And I'm so proud. =)
Today, Isaac was sent around the garden for 3 trips due to a bad attitude. A few short minutes (or maybe less than that?) Ruby was also sent out for some infraction. I think it was a crazy fit because Jadelyn had something or took something or something. =P Anyways, I watched out the window. Ruby was standing at her starting point. Isaac was paused around the garden some, looking at Ruby. He stayed there as Ruby walked toward him. Then, when she got close, he reached his sweet little hand out toward her, and grabbed her hand. That stopped soon, but they walked on side-by-side. Next time I looked out, they were having a grand time and holding hands. Ruby waited for Isaac to get up one time after he fell (still happy). When they were done, they came back inside, happy-as-clams. (If clams are really happy, that is.) Soon after, out they went again, this time followed by Jadelyn, for much running fun - around the house, around the garden, around the house, around the garden, out to the barn....then they got distracted by the green gate which they climbed on 'til it was time to come inside for lunch. I love, love, LOVE watching them run around outside! So thankful to have a place they can run! Our last house had a BUSY road in front of it, and a not-so-busy-two-track-like-thing right behind it. I LOVE the country! =) Ruby? She loves folding laundry. =) She informed me today, while helping me fold laundry, that when she is a grown-up, she is going to fold laundry all the time. Ha. Glad I'm not the only nerd in this house. =)
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Isaac's prayers....
My little man went through quite a long period of time where he wouldn't pray by himself - just repeat after us. Well, after much work, he's back to praying by himself. In great detail. I love listening to him!
Last night, he was praying for my Grandma, that she wouldn't die, that her taste would come back, that Gram and Pucka would be really helpful to her, and other things that my brain can't remember. =O He has also started praying on and off at the end of his prayers about "please help when I die for no dirt to get in my mouth or nose" or something. Okay, that part disturbs me partially, but it keeps coming back up now and then and since I've heard it more than once it doesn't disturb me as much. He also prays that if his house burns down "please don't let my Bible burn". That would come from an Uncle Arthur's bedtime story about "The Book that Would Not Burn". Ha.
Today, he prayed that Daddy would do a good job taking care of people at the nursing home and that he would come home safe when he was done with work. Or something like that. And he also prayed, "please help me to be good".
I'm so glad he's "remembered" how to pray by himself again! And I'm sure Jesus loves listening to my little boy even more than I do!
Last night, he was praying for my Grandma, that she wouldn't die, that her taste would come back, that Gram and Pucka would be really helpful to her, and other things that my brain can't remember. =O He has also started praying on and off at the end of his prayers about "please help when I die for no dirt to get in my mouth or nose" or something. Okay, that part disturbs me partially, but it keeps coming back up now and then and since I've heard it more than once it doesn't disturb me as much. He also prays that if his house burns down "please don't let my Bible burn". That would come from an Uncle Arthur's bedtime story about "The Book that Would Not Burn". Ha.
Today, he prayed that Daddy would do a good job taking care of people at the nursing home and that he would come home safe when he was done with work. Or something like that. And he also prayed, "please help me to be good".
I'm so glad he's "remembered" how to pray by himself again! And I'm sure Jesus loves listening to my little boy even more than I do!
Monday, October 10, 2011
Update (or not really) on Ruby's hips...
Got a call from our care coordinator at Shriner's today. We even talked nice to each other. =O My, my....=P
Anyways, she is going to coordinate the referral to the neurologist like the geneticist recommended. So, that appointment isn't set up yet, but will be in the next week. Hopefully.
Also, we are going back to Shriner's in two weeks from tomorrow (2 months before our scheduled appointment) to meet with Dr. Walker, the hip specialist, who would apparently (?) be the surgeon to do surgery if surgery is necessary. We are meeting to discuss any necessary procedure. Or something. Just when I thought that MAYBE we wouldn't have to have surgery, now we're meeting to discuss a procedure? Oh, man. I'm confused. But I'll try to hold onto the peace I've had for the last week. Peace that stemmed from thinking that maybe Ruby wouldn't have to have surgery, but whatever. Worrying does me no good, so I just need to write down questions and not leave until the questions are answered and I understand things. Right? Also, we don't know if this means that Ruby needs surgery (although if she does, I'd MUCH prefer it to be done now than Summer when we spend so much more time outside, and when it's HOT and her cast would get all stinky/sweaty/nasty, but you know...), or if our orthopedic surgeon just wants to pass us off because we're HEADACHES. So, you know...I'm really not anticipating learning anything new during our next visit so much. Just like an "appease the parents" visit. Or something. Huh.
And that is the update (or not really) on Ruby's hips.
Anyways, she is going to coordinate the referral to the neurologist like the geneticist recommended. So, that appointment isn't set up yet, but will be in the next week. Hopefully.
Also, we are going back to Shriner's in two weeks from tomorrow (2 months before our scheduled appointment) to meet with Dr. Walker, the hip specialist, who would apparently (?) be the surgeon to do surgery if surgery is necessary. We are meeting to discuss any necessary procedure. Or something. Just when I thought that MAYBE we wouldn't have to have surgery, now we're meeting to discuss a procedure? Oh, man. I'm confused. But I'll try to hold onto the peace I've had for the last week. Peace that stemmed from thinking that maybe Ruby wouldn't have to have surgery, but whatever. Worrying does me no good, so I just need to write down questions and not leave until the questions are answered and I understand things. Right? Also, we don't know if this means that Ruby needs surgery (although if she does, I'd MUCH prefer it to be done now than Summer when we spend so much more time outside, and when it's HOT and her cast would get all stinky/sweaty/nasty, but you know...), or if our orthopedic surgeon just wants to pass us off because we're HEADACHES. So, you know...I'm really not anticipating learning anything new during our next visit so much. Just like an "appease the parents" visit. Or something. Huh.
And that is the update (or not really) on Ruby's hips.
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