5 on Friday

1. Happy Halloween!

Although this isn’t a favorite holiday of mine (having littles to dress up does help), I did my best to get in the spirit this year.  It all started last weekend with a trip to a local church for their trunk-or-treat.  It was a great afternoon filled with games, treats, popcorn, and good old fun. 

 

Last night David and I met up with my cousin’s family for Beggar’s Night.  Now, this is a first for us.  I grew up in Northwest Iowa and we didn’t have this “night.” I don’t really even understand the history behind it, but basically I think it is Halloween a day too early. ;)  Are there any other towns out there that celebrate Beggar’s Night?  My other question to you folks out there is what is the history behind telling a joke?  I was caught off guard last night when all the candy passer-outers were asking for the kids to tell a joke.  Isn't it TRICK or treat? 

Tonight, I am going to leave work a bit early to pick up the kiddos so I can get them fed and dressed before trick-or-treating!  Since it’s just me this evening, we are going to visit a couple of houses on our street and then head home to pass out some candy.  It will be our first Halloween in our house so I can’t wait to see all the neighbor kids in costume!

2. B-Man

 Yesterday morning we completed our final trip to the doctor this month (we hope!). As you know we weren't able to have tubes put into Brady's ears when originally scheduled due to sickness.  Then he had his procedure causing the kidney infection and we were delayed again.  Yesterday was our third and final attempt and it was a success! The whole process took about 50 minutes and then we had a straight hour of crying. In the end, I really think we will be happy with the decision to have this minor procedure. In fact, the doctor told us that he removed a large amount of infection from his ears before placing the tubes. Imagine that, he had another (or persistent) ear infection.  That would only make 10-no biggie.  Here's to more healthy days in the future!

As a side note, I have an obsession with Brady's legs.  This boy carries all his length in his torso and has the shortest little chunks!

3.  Gold Canyon

I love candles.  I always seem to have one lit in my kitchen during the Spring, Fall, and Winter seasons.  There's just something magical about a freshly cleaned house that smells wonderful as well.  I have been a Yankee Candle fan for quite some time (only the small ones though - I think the larger one lose their luster too quickly).  Recently a neighbor was selling Gold Canyon candles and I talked myself into branching out and giving them a whirl.  I LOVE my new candle and the amazing Fall scent.  The fragrance of the candle matched perfectly with the tester that I smelled prior to placing the order.  Also, the aroma was strong enough to fill the room but wasn't too overbearing.  If you haven't tried these, give them a whirl next time! 

Thanks For The Introduction Emily!

4. Insta

Instagram-are you on it? I have been amazingly addicted since Spring. I'm a picture girl; always have been, always will be.  I guess that's what happens when you grow up with a father capturing every ridiculous moment of your life on still photo or film.  Literally every.single.moment.  My poor children now have to endure this torture but I know someday they'll appreciate having the memories. Anyway, if you aren't on there, give it a try.  I think you may be pleasantly surprised. 

There's A Link On The Blog To Follow Along

5. Daylight Savings

I absolutely dread daylight savings. Why can't we all be like Arizona and put the cabosh on this practice?  Yes, I know we get an extra hour of sleep but in a few months it's going to be taken away anyway.  Let's just be consistent people! Anyway...don't forget to "turn back time." (In my best Cher voice)

A Wednesday Challenge

LIFE…  If you are like me, we become consumed by the daily grind and often forget to stop and enjoy the days we’ve been given.  I have been attempting to do a better job at slowing down.

It’s difficult when schedules are so demanding; dropping the kids off at school, work, gymnastics, doctor’s appointments, house duties, the commute to and fro, etc.  And to top it off, it’s just my personality to be constantly occupied with something so I try to throw in as many “fun” activities into our schedules as well.  Even though these are happy times, they can be a bit draining as well.

That being said, I try to incorporate some “me” time during it all where I can take a moment to relax, reflect, and think.  This is hard to do at home with the kids (and husband) demanding attention so I have started my little regimen in the car.  Also, because I absolutely detest driving and traffic – it was a good place for me to start to calm down.  Even though I am an advocate of country music and a lover of some good ‘ol hip-hop, I turn the radio to the local Christian station and let it work its magic.  It is truly amazing how this music can affect your mood.  On days where I’m not traveling with the kiddos in the morning, I am listening to this station.  If I’m dreading a busy day ahead or am tired from the night before, I can’t help but feel better with my circumstances.  So, my challenge to all of you out there is to give this a try.  Next time you are out and about, flip your radio to the local Christian station for ten minutes and see how you feel.  If you aren’t uplifted or feeling a bit more relaxed or calm, I give you permission to yell at me. ;)

Weekend In Photos

With both kiddos on the mend, I took advantage of them feeling well and attempted to cram as many festive activities into our weekend as I could. 

 

I had planned on making Halloween cookies with Tessa on Thursday evening but with another ER visit on the horizon, I had to reschedule.  I was determined to make it up to her so Friday night was all about baking with my little helper.  She loved cutting out the cookies and, of course, the sprinkles. 

 

 

We started off Saturday morning with a donut delivery courtesy of daddy before he left for work.  Mr. Brady had not had these tastie gems before (and as you can see there was cereal intended for him) but both sissy and he got the remainder of mommy's chocolatey goodness.  I guess Tessa's plain glazed wasn't as appealing to her that morning.  Mommy fail...but how cute is this?!

 

And Both Children Have Amazing Hair Here Making For An Even Better Photo ;-)

The weather was gorgeous on Saturday (70s in October...in Iowa?)  so we made a trip to town to visit daddy.  Tess may have been more excited about the leaves than anything else!  When you move into new construction, the landscaping leaves much to be desired.  She loved how "crunchy" they were. 

 

Saturday night and early Sunday morning I frantically attempted to throw together a costume for Mr. Brady.  Tessa has wanted to be a pumpkin for months so the only thing that I could think of to "match" her would be a scarecrow.  I threw this together for a trunk-or-treat we were going to go to on Sunday.  I need to add some other things before Halloween but this had to do for now.

Below is picture overload of my little pumpkin and her sidekick...hopefully we can get some more around Halloween as well (when Brady has his face on too).

 

Yes, these last few we bribed them to smile with Sour Patch Kids (a family favorite).

 

Sour

x2

x3

Love Little Miss

He Removed Most Of Those Patches While In The Stroller

Thrilled

The Popcorn Was Amazing (I May Have Eaten Tessa's Too)

Finally, we spent last night carving a pumpkin.  Meaning...Tessa watched for all of 5 minutes, Brady we kept at a distance (he's allergic to pumpkin), I enjoyed an Apple Cider Beer as a spectator, and David did the carving.  Here was our final product!

Actually, I Did Draw The Face So I Guess I Helped A Little

5 on Friday

1.  Brady

As you know, we went to Iowa City earlier this week (Monday) for an updated VCUG.  On Wednesday I picked the kiddos up from school and we headed home for a relaxing mommy and babies night.  Not even twenty minutes into the door and Mr. Brady was fuss-eee.  It was to the point of needing constant snuggling and even the slightest bit of not holding him close would send him into an all-out wail.  I immediately knew he was getting sick and within the hour he was running a fever.  My night was not an easy one and I was up way too early to check on little man again.  David was off at 7am (on time – praise the Lord) and met me at home before I had to leave for work.  Brady was still having high fevers so David took him in Thursday morning.  I knew what the diagnosis would be, and it even pains me (pisses me off) to say that he has a severe kidney infection most certainly obtained from his procedure on Monday.  He spent the entire afternoon at the doctor’s office having tests run, fingers poked, catheters inserted, etc.  They did send Brady home with a shot of antibiotic instead of admitting him to the hospital as we needed to wait for some test results (which would be done this morning) so the doctors could properly treat his infection.  I left work a bit early and took Tess outside to play for a bit before dinner.   We were putting the meal on the table when Brady woke up from his nap.  I went upstairs to find him face down and shaking in his crib.  I took a rectal temperature and it was 106.5.  David took Brady to the ER while I figured out plans for Miss Tess.  Thank goodness my Aunt was available and she came as quick as she could to stay with Tess so I could meet the boys at the hospital.  (I did take her away from a special invite party to the new Nordstrom’s Rack opening in Des Moines today – and for that I will be forever sorry.  She must really love us!)  We spent our night in the ER having more tests run and Mr. man got another IV to help with dehydration.  We will be meeting with the doctor here this morning and hopefully will get some answers so we can get this little guy on the mend!

 

2.  Appointments in Perspective

I was trying to calculate our not so wonderful month of October while I sat in the ER last night.  I may be off +/- one appointment but here are our stats.

We are on day 24 of October.

Between the two kiddos we have had:

9 office visits

2 trips to the ER

1 trip to the Surgical Center

1 trip to Iowa City

24 – 13 = 11 days so far this month free of a doctor's visit...granted we probably still had a sick child...yikes!

 

3.  Nordstrom’s Rack

Today is the day!  It’s opening day of the Des Moines Nordstrom’s Rack.  I actually considered taking the day off to see all the fabulous treasures first hand but my current life of chaos prevented this from happening.  Maybe, just maybe, I’ll sneak on over during my lunch for a quick preview.

 

4.  Man Crush(es)

It’s time for me to just admit it.  I have two, quite different actually, man crushes.  (I’m sure David is thrilled seeing this).

 

The first is Josh Groban.  Yep, you read that correctly.  I mean, have you heard this man sing??  Not only is his voice amazing but I love the fact that he is instrumental as well.  It is on my bucket list to see him in concert at some point.  If you haven’t heard his music you need to stop reading this blog and download some music immediately.  I often listen to him while I am at work and any time I just need to calm down and think for a bit (maybe this is why I have been listening to him constantly these days).

 

 

The second is Lieutenant Severide from Chicago Fire.  Who’s with me?  I actually really like the story line of this show but it’s even better with him in it.  (Yes, he dates Lady Gaga but I am trying to erase this from my memory as to not ruin the fun).  If you haven’t watched an episode, give it a try.  But do not watch it with a fireman…they ruin it by critiquing every.little.thing.

5.  Long Hair?

I was in the bathroom at work this morning and as I looked up I realized my hair grew 3 inches overnight!  I don’t know if it’s because I have been diligent about using my new conditioning products or if it was the recent cut or what, but my hair is finally starting to look healthier and longer again.

I also look a bit like Thelma from Scooby Doo. ;)

 

 

Iowa City

This week we headed to Iowa City for Brady’s VCUG.  I have been dreading this trip because I have nothing but awful memories from his previous experience.  There is nothing worse than watching your child be strapped down to a board, swaddled in a papoose, and seeing their eyes gaze up at you as they cry for help – only to find yourself unable to do anything.  It’s an awful, awful feeling and I am just thankful that Brady is young enough that he shouldn’t remember any of this.

Both David and I were in the room during the procedure.  I was considering staying in the waiting room but when it came down to it, I just had to be in there with Brady.  I chose to stand to the side this time and had David be the one gowned up to assist.  Luckily, this VCUG only lasted about 25 minutes so the torture for all of us was over much quicker than we anticipated.

The other great thing is that we were able to get initial feedback from the radiologist right then and there and meet with our specialist shortly thereafter.

I did leave out some information in my last post that would be beneficial as I explain his most recent results.  Brady’s right kidney did not grow as his other one did.  It is quite small.  Because of this, it only does 25% of the work while his left kidney, which is of average size, does 75% of the work.  Obviously it would be ideal for them to be sharing the work 50/50 but at least they are both functioning.  That being said, here is what we learned:

·         Brady’s right kidney (the small one) showed no reflux during the VCUG.  Both doctors are confident the issue has resolved on its own as Brady grew.

·         Brady’s left kidney is still showing Grade IV relux.  Because this kidney is doing the majority of the work and the dilation occurs very early as the bladder fills, this is still a big concern.

·         From here on out, all high fevers will require a urine test to rule out UTI infections.  It is quite possible that with all Brady’s recent illnesses that an infection was being masked and later resolved due to being prescribed antibiotics for other symptoms.  If Brady has a UTI prior to next October (one year from now), it sounds as if he will be having surgery. 

Overall, this was a very positive appointment since his right side showed such improvement.  We can only hope as Brady continues to grow that the left side will also resolve.  Here’s to healthy kidneys and no infections!

So Tuckered Out After It All

Weekend Rewind

A smooth and stress free weekend was what I was hoping for and believe it or not, that is exactly what happened.  Friday night was very low-key.  I made a few stops on my way home from work but then it was all about making dinner, movies, and sweat pants.



Check Out Those Curls

Saturday morning we were up early and had our coffee.  There’s just something special about weekend coffee and the fact that you can actually savor it, am I right?  Then we ventured into town to get all our errands out of the way.  We stopped for a light lunch at Olive Garden and then headed home so the kiddos could nap.

Brady Love Lemons - Sour!

 We decided to try out a new church as we still haven’t settled on one here in Des Moines.  They offered a Saturday night service and it was so nice to go in the evening and not have to worry about dragging the kids alone on Sunday or having that feeling of guilt for skipping out because “sometimes it just too hard by myself.”  When we got home the weather was still gorgeous so we headed out for a little neighborhood walk to see all the pumpkins and decorations on display. 



A Girl & Her Barking Dog

Sunday morning I relaxed with the kiddos.  Those who know me well know that I can only relax for so long.  I then took it upon myself to deep clean the house yet again (lots of germs between those two kiddos) and organize the pantry.  What a feeling of accomplishment – and I’m pretty quick at doing this these days.  I then packed the kids up and we went to the fire station for a little visit.  We were lucky this time and actually got to hang out for a bit without having daddy drive away in a rush!  



Mr. Uncooperative



He Wanted To Pull Everything

Finally, we took a little visit to the mall to release some energy before heading home for dinner and our nighttime routine.



Shortly After This Photo Those Pumpkins Were Covered In Stickers

Dare I say the weekend was a success?

F.i.n.a.l.l.y F.r.i.d.a.y

There are a group of bloggers who link up for Five On Friday. Basically it's a time to share a compilation of five topics, ideas, favorite things, etc from your week to blog about. I certainly haven't had enough time to investigate how to link up yet (I never said I was good at this computer stuff) but I am still going to post my five here today.

1. Brady's ER Visit

The week started out with a bang with Brady's trip to the emergency room on Monday night.  I know I mentioned this before but as a parent I have never been worried about a child's fever like I was that night.  



He Was Awake But Motionless

Even today Brady is still pretty fussy but at least his temperature has been under control. 

2. Tessa's Surgery Success

We were up at 5am and actually left the house when we were scheduled to at 6am (yay us)! We were checked into the surgical center and they were ready for us right away so surgery happened earlier than expected. Tess wasn't too sure what was happening no matter how much we tried to explain things. What she did know is that she had to go to another room and mommy and daddy couldn't come. This was not good for her or me. She clenched onto me so tight and when the nurse tried to take her back she wouldn't let go of my neck. She started to cry and maybe I did too. The surgery took an hour and we had to wait until she woke up to go see her. This was torture. Every time the door opened we thought they were coming for us. Finally a nurse came out to talk with us. She said we couldn't go back.  Everything was alright but Tess wasn't waking up as quickly as anticipated from the anesthesia. So, we waited again. I finally got to hold her and she sat in my lap and immediately fell asleep.  



Two Very Tired Girls

They encouraged us to wake her up after thirty minutes or so to get some fluids and Popsicles down. She had an orange one and a red one! Good excuse for sweet treats, right? Since her vitals were good and she was taking in fluids well, we were able to leave around 11am.  Tess spent the next few hours on the couch watching movies but by 4pm she wanted to be outside playing! We did let her swing for a bit but then it was time to relax again. She wasn't having pain until the evening so that was comforting as well.  We did notice that the side of her lip has a pretty substantial rash and so does her hand. Her lip bugged her all day actually. We are assuming it is a reaction to the adhesive they used to keep the IV and breathing tube in place. Weird huh? 

Anyway, we are certainly glad we went through with the tonsillectomy and that she tolerated it all so well.



The Night Before Surgery - Happy As A Clam
 

3.  Follow Along

Last night I added an option on the blog for you to input your e-mail so you can have a notification sent to you when I publish a new post.  I did test it out myself and it seems to be working.  If you have any problems, let me know.  Also, if you are in the blogger world, you should be able to follow along that way as well.  Simply sign in and follow.  I am excited to start joining other's blogs as well.

 

4.  Fabulous Fall

I've said it before and I will say it again - I love Fall.  Don't get me wrong, I would much rather have it be summer and be out on the boat sipping a cocktail or two.  Yet, there isn't anything I can do to prevent the seasons from changing so I embrace these beautiful nights while I can.

 This tree is outside the window at work and I make a point to look at it each day.  I'm no professional photographer, but one ought to get out here and take some shots of this beauty.  I love the gold and purple on this tree.  Nature is beautiful.

 

Now, let's move on to my absolute favorite Halloween/Fall candy.  Do any of you like these or am I in a pool by myself with this ol' fashion treat?  My husband is too young to appreciate these ;) - so I hope somebody out there can jump on this bandwagon with me!

5.  F.I.N.A.L.L.Y F.R.I.D.A.Y

As you all know this has been one stressful and tiring week.  I am hoping tonight and tomorrow can be free of pain for the littles and we can all relax and enjoy an evening and Saturday together.  Here's what I'm going to do:

when it rains...it...pours

Was I in for a subliminal punishment after publishing yesterday’s post? 

Last night I picked the kiddos up from school, went to the market where we had dinner and stocked up on a few necessities, and headed to gymnastics.  My aunt met me there to watch Tessa for the first time.  Brady was a trooper for the first half hour but then started to fuss.  I rocked him to sleep and put him in the car seat for the remainder of the class.  After Tessa was done, we stayed a bit to chat with my aunt and the other mothers/kids and then left for the twenty minute drive home.  Within minutes of unpacking the car I noticed Brady was really red and then he started crying…the painful type of cry.  I took an axillary temperature and it was 104.0.  I was in shock and actually questioned whether the thermometer was working properly.  I had never seen his temperature that high and the fact that it got so high so quickly was bothersome as he wasn’t feeling warm while we were at gymnastics.  I took a rectal temperature just to make sure and it was 105.2.  I called my aunt and asked if she would drive over to watch Tessa.  I got her ready for bed, gave Brady some medicine, and packed a bag for him as well.  About an hour later I had us at the Children’s Hospital.  Even with medicine, Brady’s temp was still at 103 when we checked in.  He was given an IV and they did blood work.  We were able to rule out another ear infection and the doctor felt comfortable it wasn’t his kidneys either…whew.  In fact, it was looking viral which meant there wasn’t much they could do for him.  I was given an option to have him stay overnight or take him home and follow-up with the doctor in the morning.  (We had pre-tube physicals scheduled for both Tessa and Brady today).  I decided he would have a better opportunity for sleep at home so I started packing up our things.  Right before we left the nurse did another set of vitals and the fever was back over 105.  They gave him another round of medication and I continued with my original plan.  I got home and put Brady to sleep.  It was around 1:00am.  He was up again at 2:20am and the fever was reading as high as my thermometer goes.  I took him downstairs to our living room, opened his pjs up, put some cool compresses on him, and gave him some more medicine.  I laid down next to him and shortly thereafter he was settled down and asleep.  I took him to his crib and he slept until the morning.  I was up at five (less than two hours later) to check on him again and at that point I just decided to get ready for the day. 

David came home around 7:30am, I left for work, and he got the kids ready for the doctor.  Tessa’s physical went great.  After much talk with the pediatrician we are going to move forward with her tubes and the tonsillectomy.  This will hopefully allow her to sleep better, the risk and recovery is so much lower the younger she is, we have approval of multiple doctors and the insurance companies, and most importantly it should help her health and her brother’s during this upcoming winter season.  Many prayers for Thursday (we know I will be a mess).

 Brady will not be having tubes on Thursday.  He was still running a fever at the appointment and was also diagnosed with hand, foot, and mouth.  How the doctor missed this last night in the ER (especially when I mentioned that it was going around their school) I will never know.  Needless to say they will be receiving a phone call from me…and probably a letter.  Yes, I am that mom.

Another day, another adventure…with lots of coffee.  Now let’s just hope Tessa stays healthy for the next two days or I very well may lose my marbles.