Hope everyone's having a Tasty-Tuesday! :)
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Monday, September 10, 2012
Bombarded
The last two days have been a test of my patience and character. I've made a conscious decision to respond differently ... positively ... to those who are so blatantly rude to Jocelyn and I in an attempt to preserve my heart and integrity, and to try and set a good example for Jocelyn.
Allow me to share with you two stories. I'm only picking two stories as I don't have much time, but trust me when I say that in the last two days, I have been bombarded with rude, arrogant and I guess basically those who simply speak more than they think.
So here I am in Wal-Mart of all places (I hate going to big stores because there is almost always a person there that seems to want to share their tiny mind with me), at the customer service desk needing to exchange a few workout shirts (they were really cute so I was excited to get to run in them). Anyways, I take them up to the lady and tell her "I need to exchange these please" and then go about getting a different size. When I come back with my different sizes the lady says "Well, I guess we thought we were smaller than we really are huh ... you had to go up 2 additional sizes." Really lady? I mean, rrrrrrrrreally? Why does anyone comment on the things a person buys? As I stood there looking at her disheveled, uncleaned, oversized appearance I had a million different thoughts run through my head...
Instead of saying, and doing, what initially popped into my head, I looked at her and said "Yep, and I look fieeeeeeeeerce in them honey."
As this lady was doing all the transactions to exchange my items, a different lady was standing behind Jocelyn and I. Jocelyn was sitting in the cart minding her own business and looking all cute when this lady came closer, leaned towards Jocelyn's face and said "Don't you think its about time you lose that pacifier little girl?" When I looked at the lady I asked her "Are you talking to my daughter?" (I knew she was, and not sure why I even asked that, but I did). The lady didn't answer yes or no, but instead replied "Well how old is she anyways? Big kids really shouldn't be dependent on those things ya know."
I think because people say things to us all the time, I know when I'm about to explode. Its like I feel this bomb go off in the pit of my stomach and its contents soar up my chest and throat, then out my arms, fingertips and mouth. The grace of God must've been with me this day because for the first few milliseconds, seemed like minutes, I didn't say a word. Instead I thought to myself, "I'm trying hard, so hard, to learn how to deal with people these days and I have not one, but two nitwits right here at the exact same time. Is this a joke?" I told the lady "I've learned that many people ask and say stupid things because they don't know our situation, so I don't hold that against you." I turned back around to the Wal-Mart employee that was doing my transaction and thinking surely this lady understood that I had nothing more to say to her, but no, that wasn't the case. The lady didn't seem to understand that I didn't want to hear anything she had to say, but she pressed on with asking "Well whats going on with you guys then?" LEAVE ME ALONE!
Ultimately, I did end up telling her that Jocelyn was a preemie and had cerebral palsy which then her whole demeanor changed. I shouldn't have to tell people my whole life story though. Why does someone make it their business if a child has a pacifier "too long?" Its not their kid. Don't get me wrong, I don't mind people asking questions about Jocelyn ... how we do things, what does this mean for you guys, where we get stuff ... I love it in fact because those who ask, instead of making remarks or comments to my daughter in hopes that I hear them, are asking so they can understand or learn, not because they think I'm doing something wrong, want to correct me or feel "they know best."
Enough about those ladies, on to the next story...
So yesterday I planned a full day for us which in part included going to the library to find books about Fall/Autumn, leaves, apples, pumpkins, harvesting, etc. After an early nap and lunch, Jocelyn and I took off. Once we got to the library, I got the stroller out, unbuckled Jocelyn and then picked her up to put her in the stroller. When I picked Jocie up she instantly started vomiting everywhere. We don't know why she pukes, but trust me when I say we hate it as I'm sure she does too, and the fact that it happens so much is exhausting. But anyways, Jocelyn was vomiting really hard, it of course was going everywhere, and I'm trying to hold her in a good position. I've said it before, it is hard to hold a 30+lb kid that has cerebral palsy with low-tone, while they are vomiting, so their body isn't collapsing all the while trying to keep a good airway.
As Jocelyn was vomiting (we were in the parking lot of course), people would pass by making comments and literally just stop to stare. If your going to stop, then help me. There is very minimal common courtesy anymore.
One lady stopped in front of us and said "Gosh is she sick? She is getting puke all over you guys." Another lady told her kid as they passed by "Come over here, you don't want what they have." Finally after Jocelyn was done vomiting, I had the aftermath of cleaning us both up with new clothes (well for Jocelyn anyways ... I just rinsed my shoes off). I changed Jocelyn in the back of the van into a new outfit (didn't even have to change her diaper ... just a pair of shorts & a shirt) and someone in passing said "It's not appropriate to change your daughter in the middle of the parking lot."
Seriously you guys, I'm either going to lose it one day or need some strong anxiety meds to deal with everything each time we try to go somewhere. I refuse to allow people to determine what kind of person I will become because if the world had its way, I would be secluded, self-centered and consumed with hatefulness.
All I can do is keep learning from each experience and hopefully surpass my expectations for myself. I pray I learn more of God's wisdom with how to deal with the general public and society itself.
Allow me to share with you two stories. I'm only picking two stories as I don't have much time, but trust me when I say that in the last two days, I have been bombarded with rude, arrogant and I guess basically those who simply speak more than they think.
So here I am in Wal-Mart of all places (I hate going to big stores because there is almost always a person there that seems to want to share their tiny mind with me), at the customer service desk needing to exchange a few workout shirts (they were really cute so I was excited to get to run in them). Anyways, I take them up to the lady and tell her "I need to exchange these please" and then go about getting a different size. When I come back with my different sizes the lady says "Well, I guess we thought we were smaller than we really are huh ... you had to go up 2 additional sizes." Really lady? I mean, rrrrrrrrreally? Why does anyone comment on the things a person buys? As I stood there looking at her disheveled, uncleaned, oversized appearance I had a million different thoughts run through my head...
Instead of saying, and doing, what initially popped into my head, I looked at her and said "Yep, and I look fieeeeeeeeerce in them honey."
As this lady was doing all the transactions to exchange my items, a different lady was standing behind Jocelyn and I. Jocelyn was sitting in the cart minding her own business and looking all cute when this lady came closer, leaned towards Jocelyn's face and said "Don't you think its about time you lose that pacifier little girl?" When I looked at the lady I asked her "Are you talking to my daughter?" (I knew she was, and not sure why I even asked that, but I did). The lady didn't answer yes or no, but instead replied "Well how old is she anyways? Big kids really shouldn't be dependent on those things ya know."
I think because people say things to us all the time, I know when I'm about to explode. Its like I feel this bomb go off in the pit of my stomach and its contents soar up my chest and throat, then out my arms, fingertips and mouth. The grace of God must've been with me this day because for the first few milliseconds, seemed like minutes, I didn't say a word. Instead I thought to myself, "I'm trying hard, so hard, to learn how to deal with people these days and I have not one, but two nitwits right here at the exact same time. Is this a joke?" I told the lady "I've learned that many people ask and say stupid things because they don't know our situation, so I don't hold that against you." I turned back around to the Wal-Mart employee that was doing my transaction and thinking surely this lady understood that I had nothing more to say to her, but no, that wasn't the case. The lady didn't seem to understand that I didn't want to hear anything she had to say, but she pressed on with asking "Well whats going on with you guys then?" LEAVE ME ALONE!
Ultimately, I did end up telling her that Jocelyn was a preemie and had cerebral palsy which then her whole demeanor changed. I shouldn't have to tell people my whole life story though. Why does someone make it their business if a child has a pacifier "too long?" Its not their kid. Don't get me wrong, I don't mind people asking questions about Jocelyn ... how we do things, what does this mean for you guys, where we get stuff ... I love it in fact because those who ask, instead of making remarks or comments to my daughter in hopes that I hear them, are asking so they can understand or learn, not because they think I'm doing something wrong, want to correct me or feel "they know best."
Enough about those ladies, on to the next story...
So yesterday I planned a full day for us which in part included going to the library to find books about Fall/Autumn, leaves, apples, pumpkins, harvesting, etc. After an early nap and lunch, Jocelyn and I took off. Once we got to the library, I got the stroller out, unbuckled Jocelyn and then picked her up to put her in the stroller. When I picked Jocie up she instantly started vomiting everywhere. We don't know why she pukes, but trust me when I say we hate it as I'm sure she does too, and the fact that it happens so much is exhausting. But anyways, Jocelyn was vomiting really hard, it of course was going everywhere, and I'm trying to hold her in a good position. I've said it before, it is hard to hold a 30+lb kid that has cerebral palsy with low-tone, while they are vomiting, so their body isn't collapsing all the while trying to keep a good airway.
As Jocelyn was vomiting (we were in the parking lot of course), people would pass by making comments and literally just stop to stare. If your going to stop, then help me. There is very minimal common courtesy anymore.
One lady stopped in front of us and said "Gosh is she sick? She is getting puke all over you guys." Another lady told her kid as they passed by "Come over here, you don't want what they have." Finally after Jocelyn was done vomiting, I had the aftermath of cleaning us both up with new clothes (well for Jocelyn anyways ... I just rinsed my shoes off). I changed Jocelyn in the back of the van into a new outfit (didn't even have to change her diaper ... just a pair of shorts & a shirt) and someone in passing said "It's not appropriate to change your daughter in the middle of the parking lot."
Seriously you guys, I'm either going to lose it one day or need some strong anxiety meds to deal with everything each time we try to go somewhere. I refuse to allow people to determine what kind of person I will become because if the world had its way, I would be secluded, self-centered and consumed with hatefulness.
All I can do is keep learning from each experience and hopefully surpass my expectations for myself. I pray I learn more of God's wisdom with how to deal with the general public and society itself.
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Fall 2012 Bucket List
In no particular order, here's a mighty fine start to our Fall family-fun time!!!
I'm really quickly throwing this together but my mind is going & going & going like the little energizer bunny! Yay for fun!
- Lawrence Color Run
- Watch lots of football
- Make Homemade Hot Coco
- Visit Pumpkin Patch
- Go on a Hay Ride
- Fingerprint Indian Corn Craft
- Make Pumpkin Bread
- Carve Pumpkins
- Roast Pumpkin Seeds
- Bake a Pumpkin Pie
- Play in the leaves
- Make a Leaf Book
- Leaf Coffee Filter Tie-Dyes
- Visit an Apple Orchard
- Make Apple Stamps
- Bake an Apple Pie
- Make Homemade Applesauce
- Hand Print Apple Tree
- Go to a Fall Festival
- Read Books about Fall
- Bake French Bread
- Make Green Bean Dumpling Soup
- Nature Walk
- Make Family Tree
- Buy/Make Halloween Costumes
- Go Trick-or-Treating
- Watch a scary movie
- Fall Spice Painting
- Thanksgiving with family
- Make a Thankful Tree
- Turkey Handprint Craft
- Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade on TV.
- Visit Deanna Rose Farmstead
- Visit Smoke on the Water
- Yarn & Sandpaper Craft
- Fairlawn Oktoberfest
Baffled, Botox & Balloons
Yesterday we had another Botox session for Jocelyn which makes this her 5th go-around (I originally thought it was her 6th, but 5 is already too many in my books so no need to rush into the next one).
On the way to Shawnee Mission Medical Center (we normally go to Heartland, but since our last injections, they had sold out), we thought we would stop at Dunkin Donuts to grab some yummy coffee and a treat to "start the day out right." It was a total and complete disaster! I told Justin, "I'll just run in because it'll be faster than drive-thru"... definitely not the case! There was literally almost no one in there, other than the long drive-thru line, and all I ordered was a cafe mocha & fritter for Justin, and a plain coffee with milk and oatmeal for me. I'm waiting and waiting while other customers are coming in and having their order taken as well. I normally just chill out and wait for things like this, but it didn't help that we wanted to have plenty of time to find this new place since we've never been, the traffic towards Kansas City is totally insane and it's pure craziness with the constant construction.
So anyways, after about 10 minutes or so, I ask the guy, "excuse me, have you made our order" and then I have to tell him repeatedly what I ordered in the first place. Finally, 15 minutes and over $8 later, I walked out the door with super sweet coconut coffee, a tasteless non-mocha, undercooked oatmeal and a soggy apple fritter. Needless to say, this was NOT a good way to start the morning. I was completely in awe ... baffled in fact ... that it was so difficult to get such a simple order and yet it still be wrong. I know I'm ranting ... sorry! Between that and the nutso's out driving, we were getting ourselves all kinds of stressed out. No bueno!
Once we got to the medical center and were settled, things were mostly okay. Everyone seemed a little off kilter though and not communicating well which only fueled the brewing anxiety from the morning. We had to review the injections sites because the middle man transposed sites, ensure the meds were correct (ie Jocelyn needs an accurate weight if uhm, oh I don't know, you are going to be giving sedating meds since its a good idea to ensure the weight is correct so too much medication isn't given), make sure baseline vitals are taken in case there is a change after the procedure (yes, sometimes you have to remind the staff) ... and this would be exactly why I'm "one of those moms."
For the most part we really love our orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Gupta, but we would of course rather not have to see him at all. He's a super energetic physician, extremely opinionated, passionate, forward-thinker and doesn't just consider Jocelyn's joints/bones/muscles. We like him because he is concerned about her diet, supplements, exercise, sleep, bowels and so forth. He follows both evidence-based practice and yet critically thinks about all the children he sees and notices how sometimes he does completely disassociated muscles groups and gets a strange but positive result (ie he will inject a child's latissimus dorsi and then all of a sudden the child can use their hand better which very cool in my books).
Prior to going back for her injections, Jocelyn was given some Versed to help make her sleepy. She was of course already sleepy from being up since before 5am, so after that med, she was down for the count before even going back there. She was so cute though, before the pulse ox was attached to her big toe it continued to make a dinging noise. Apparently in her drug-induced drowsiness, Jocelyn thought that "dinging" was funny because she kept giggling while asleep. It truly was the most precious thing and melted the hearts of everyone in the room. Her giggling, smiling face made any anxiety we had totally disappear and definitely a great way to go off surgery.
Prior to yesterday, all the sites had been previously picked out, but seeing how I can't seem to leave well enough alone, I had ideas about "what was best" or "tell me what you think about this?" which Dr. Gupta always seems to so greatly appreciate! Ha! Well, if I have a concern, you don't have to agree, but I at least want you to stop, listen, think and then we can discuss. No harm in that! :) I told Dr. Gupta that I had concerns about her calves/ankles as she was putting even the best ballerina to shame with those pointed toes. He of course smiled at me, did his little thinking jig and then said "oh ok, we'll put some there too." I know I'm not a surgeon ... I know that ... but I also know our daughter and a heel cord release is really not on my "to-do list" right now. We did a total of 11 different sites and I didn't actually count the number of needle sticks this time (some sites are injected in several different spots so even though only 11 sites are picked, she might actually end up with 30+ needle injections).
During recovery Jocelyn did mostly well with minimal crying which always makes that transition period more tolerable and easier on our hearts. She of course slept the whole way home and was sleepy throughout the day. Justin had to fly last night so it worked well that we were sleepy so naps could be had by all. Of course after Justin left, the vomiting kicked in but it wasn't too awful.
Towards the end of the evening Jocelyn seemed to perk-up a little bit so we thought instead of being stuck in the house for the evening, we would venture the short 2 miles over to Lake Shawnee for the Huff-n-Puff festivities and meet our friends Brian & Dani. The Huff-n-Puff is going on all weekend and its where there are vendors selling things, they have that terrible-for-you type of foods and of course it wouldn't be huffy or puffy if there weren't lots of hot-air balloons! For a $10 donation towards the Topeka Ronald McDonald House, they give tethered balloon rides which we are hoping to do late tonight or tomorrow if Jocie's feeling up to it. I think it sounds awesome, it might not be a full-blown balloon ride, but I'll take whatever I can get! :)
Brian and Dani took such a cute pictures of Boogie & I. She was a mega giggle-box last night which is the best! I did lose the "Mother-of-the-Year" award though because it was C.O.L.D and I had Jocie in a little dress with no pants or shoes ... after a procedure ... I mean HEEEELLLLLOOOOO! I guess I had temporarily misplaced my brain :s Lucky for Boogie and I, we have great friends! Dani disrobed herself of her long-sleeved undershirt so we could slip it onto Jocie's legs to keep her warm. We are so loved!
Last night I counted at least 10 different balloon baskets, so they seem prepared for all those who want a tether ride. Hopefully they raise a lot of money because its for a great cause and this is a pretty creative and fun way to do it!
Yesterday was a long day ... LONG DAY, but to end it with happy smiles, giggles, friends and balloons? ... Makes me feel blessed!
On the way to Shawnee Mission Medical Center (we normally go to Heartland, but since our last injections, they had sold out), we thought we would stop at Dunkin Donuts to grab some yummy coffee and a treat to "start the day out right." It was a total and complete disaster! I told Justin, "I'll just run in because it'll be faster than drive-thru"... definitely not the case! There was literally almost no one in there, other than the long drive-thru line, and all I ordered was a cafe mocha & fritter for Justin, and a plain coffee with milk and oatmeal for me. I'm waiting and waiting while other customers are coming in and having their order taken as well. I normally just chill out and wait for things like this, but it didn't help that we wanted to have plenty of time to find this new place since we've never been, the traffic towards Kansas City is totally insane and it's pure craziness with the constant construction.
So anyways, after about 10 minutes or so, I ask the guy, "excuse me, have you made our order" and then I have to tell him repeatedly what I ordered in the first place. Finally, 15 minutes and over $8 later, I walked out the door with super sweet coconut coffee, a tasteless non-mocha, undercooked oatmeal and a soggy apple fritter. Needless to say, this was NOT a good way to start the morning. I was completely in awe ... baffled in fact ... that it was so difficult to get such a simple order and yet it still be wrong. I know I'm ranting ... sorry! Between that and the nutso's out driving, we were getting ourselves all kinds of stressed out. No bueno!
Once we got to the medical center and were settled, things were mostly okay. Everyone seemed a little off kilter though and not communicating well which only fueled the brewing anxiety from the morning. We had to review the injections sites because the middle man transposed sites, ensure the meds were correct (ie Jocelyn needs an accurate weight if uhm, oh I don't know, you are going to be giving sedating meds since its a good idea to ensure the weight is correct so too much medication isn't given), make sure baseline vitals are taken in case there is a change after the procedure (yes, sometimes you have to remind the staff) ... and this would be exactly why I'm "one of those moms."
For the most part we really love our orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Gupta, but we would of course rather not have to see him at all. He's a super energetic physician, extremely opinionated, passionate, forward-thinker and doesn't just consider Jocelyn's joints/bones/muscles. We like him because he is concerned about her diet, supplements, exercise, sleep, bowels and so forth. He follows both evidence-based practice and yet critically thinks about all the children he sees and notices how sometimes he does completely disassociated muscles groups and gets a strange but positive result (ie he will inject a child's latissimus dorsi and then all of a sudden the child can use their hand better which very cool in my books).
Prior to going back for her injections, Jocelyn was given some Versed to help make her sleepy. She was of course already sleepy from being up since before 5am, so after that med, she was down for the count before even going back there. She was so cute though, before the pulse ox was attached to her big toe it continued to make a dinging noise. Apparently in her drug-induced drowsiness, Jocelyn thought that "dinging" was funny because she kept giggling while asleep. It truly was the most precious thing and melted the hearts of everyone in the room. Her giggling, smiling face made any anxiety we had totally disappear and definitely a great way to go off surgery.
Prior to yesterday, all the sites had been previously picked out, but seeing how I can't seem to leave well enough alone, I had ideas about "what was best" or "tell me what you think about this?" which Dr. Gupta always seems to so greatly appreciate! Ha! Well, if I have a concern, you don't have to agree, but I at least want you to stop, listen, think and then we can discuss. No harm in that! :) I told Dr. Gupta that I had concerns about her calves/ankles as she was putting even the best ballerina to shame with those pointed toes. He of course smiled at me, did his little thinking jig and then said "oh ok, we'll put some there too." I know I'm not a surgeon ... I know that ... but I also know our daughter and a heel cord release is really not on my "to-do list" right now. We did a total of 11 different sites and I didn't actually count the number of needle sticks this time (some sites are injected in several different spots so even though only 11 sites are picked, she might actually end up with 30+ needle injections).
During recovery Jocelyn did mostly well with minimal crying which always makes that transition period more tolerable and easier on our hearts. She of course slept the whole way home and was sleepy throughout the day. Justin had to fly last night so it worked well that we were sleepy so naps could be had by all. Of course after Justin left, the vomiting kicked in but it wasn't too awful.
Towards the end of the evening Jocelyn seemed to perk-up a little bit so we thought instead of being stuck in the house for the evening, we would venture the short 2 miles over to Lake Shawnee for the Huff-n-Puff festivities and meet our friends Brian & Dani. The Huff-n-Puff is going on all weekend and its where there are vendors selling things, they have that terrible-for-you type of foods and of course it wouldn't be huffy or puffy if there weren't lots of hot-air balloons! For a $10 donation towards the Topeka Ronald McDonald House, they give tethered balloon rides which we are hoping to do late tonight or tomorrow if Jocie's feeling up to it. I think it sounds awesome, it might not be a full-blown balloon ride, but I'll take whatever I can get! :)
Brian and Dani took such a cute pictures of Boogie & I. She was a mega giggle-box last night which is the best! I did lose the "Mother-of-the-Year" award though because it was C.O.L.D and I had Jocie in a little dress with no pants or shoes ... after a procedure ... I mean HEEEELLLLLOOOOO! I guess I had temporarily misplaced my brain :s Lucky for Boogie and I, we have great friends! Dani disrobed herself of her long-sleeved undershirt so we could slip it onto Jocie's legs to keep her warm. We are so loved!
Dani even caught Uncle Brian attacking Jocie in action. You can almost hear her excitment in these picture!
Here is a taste of one of the balloons for all you awful KU fans! Its been a long while since I've seen a hot-air balloon and was taken by surprise at its size!
Yesterday was a long day ... LONG DAY, but to end it with happy smiles, giggles, friends and balloons? ... Makes me feel blessed!
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Found some pics!!
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Whirlwind
Things have been absolutely crazy lately, but fun at the same time. Gotta tell ya though, I'm pretty darn exhausted.
My sister Cindy flew in from Virgina on Wednesday August 22nd and we've been on the go ever since it seems. I haven't seen her in a year, so I was excited to get to spend a few days with her before she went to go pick up my super studly nephews from being at their dads house all summer.
We were lucky enough to get to spend about three days together before she was off to see a few friends and hang with the parentals. In light of her having recent surgery we didn't do a whole lot, but we are more about hanging out, talking, watching movies or playing games than actually going out and about.
While Cindy was here, we got to take her along to speech therapy so she could see Jocelyn in action, and I even think Jocelyn showed off a little bit for her auntie. That Friday we traveled to Salina to see our beloved physical therapist, Joyce, to cast some new DAFO's since Bobby chewed-up hers and because she has pretty much out-grown the current pair. While we were there, I also got to see my sweetie-pie of a friend, Allison, and she even had time to visit with us for a little while which was so lovely. The trip to Salina seemed long since the weather was terrible and at times the rain was coming down so hard you couldn't even see, but Aunt Cindy got to help pick out Jocelyn's design on her boots so they will be even more special. Who knows, maybe this will be the pair that we'll see big results with?
Of course Aunt Cindy gave Boogie lots of smooches while she was here -- hopefully enough to last another year if need be.
One of the things that Boogie loooooves for Aunt Cindy to do is sing sing SING! Singing is something they do together all the time via Skype, so it comes at no surprise that she'd want it on demand while she was here! Two of Boogies favorite songs are A Poor Old Slave and Gilly Gilly Oseenfeffer Katzenellen Bogen by the Sea.
Its been several years since my sister and I have had pictures together, so it was nice to snap a few.
After my sister left with my parents and picked up her boys, they came back to our house to finish out her stay. It was so fun getting to see my nephews Donnell and Tristen again. They've grown up overnight it seems (that's always the case) and still can't believe they are 12 and 10 years-old. Time goes too fast!
Donnell is now almost as tall as me and Tristen is still a cute little shrimp, but I know his time is coming soon. The first night the boys were here, Justin helped them set up a tent in our yard (we live in the country so we have a huge yard) so they could camp outside one of the nights and roast marshmallows. That was sort of a failure ... epic failure in fact ... Tristen didn't last 30 minutes and I woke up to Donnell watching TV on the couch at 1:30am. Needless to say, it was a sleepless night for all, but we wanted to try something new with them ... they are boys, don't boys like that kind of stuff?? But anyways, the next day Justin was able to get us into the flight facility at his work to see all the Blackhawk helicopters. The boys had a blast climbing in and out of them, checking out all the equipment and repeatedly would say "I can't believe Uncle Justin flies these big things." It was pretty cute and I had fun getting to see them so excited!
On Saturday September 1st, the family all left early that morning to head back to VA, and Justin, Jocelyn and I headed out for Kearney, Nebraska for a wedding reception. My friend and fellow nursing classmate Mickayla married her sweetheart Michael, and we wanted to be there to celebrate with them.
It took about six hours to get there, but we stopped at an amazing BBQ restaurant along the way in Nebraska City. Mickayla (she was the one that sent me that awesome care package a couple months ago that I blogged about) looked absolutely stunning in her wedding dress, and it was wonderful getting to wrap my arms around her and give her a great big hug! Its been several years since I've gotten to see her. A double score for me was that my other nursing friend Nicole came as well and we all got to hang out for the night. That was the first time I got the chance to meet her little boy Thayer and pictures just didn't do this squishy-faced sweetie justice!
We spent the night talking, laughing, eating and dancing. The night went entirely too fast and Jocelyn loved every minute of it. Between Justin and I, we danced every ounce of energy out of her. I honestly think she laughed from 8pm until 10:30pm ... non-stop ... no joking! I don't know how she laughs so much but we love it!!
I would post pictures of Mickayla, Nicole and I but of course I'm not awesome and didn't take any. :s Somtimes you just have to not worry about pictures and enjoy the moment. Lucky for us though, Nicole did take a few pictures and there was one that was super cute of us three, and then there were some that I seriously looked 6 months pregnant. Say what? How do I go from getting asked "You look amazing, have you been working out?" to "when are you due?" If those pictures ever get posted by Nicole, she better do some cropping that's all I gotta say hahaha. Oh, and just so you know how lovely my husband is, I told him how terrible I looked in the pictures and he says "Well, I told you to wear the other dress ... it was more flattering." Thanks honey ... thanks!
Here is a picture of the three of us from four years ago that will have to do for now. This was when Nicole got married right after nursing school. There is even another friend/classmate in this picture that is also getting married soon. She's the one not wearing green and her name is Jill -- she's a dollface!
After the fun night of celebrating a couples love and seeing my friends, we had to make the long trip back home. On our way back home Justin suggested that we go through Hays, KS which would only add 10 miles to our trip, but also meant that we would get to eat the most delicious burgers from The Q. He had me at burgers, so we headed that way. As expected, the burgers, fries, hot wings, jalapeno poppers and beer were phenomenal (yes, we ate all that ... don't judge ... I'm six months pregnant don't you remember?).
Since we were in Hays anyways and have been looking at vans for months, we decided to stop by Hays AutoWorld. We have bought cars from this place before as they have always had impeccable customer service and wonderful cars. Now, I never thought I would EVER want a van, but Jocelyn has quite a bit of equipment that gets really heavy and I am tried of tearing everything apart just to put it in the car only to have to put things back together when we get somewhere.
AutoWorld had a large selection of Dodge and Chevy vans but we weren't impressed with those whatsoever. Then, to our surprise, we see a 2011 silver Toyota Sienna with only 5,000 miles on it. Our first thought was "hmmmmm, whats wrong with this van?" Come to find out, this van was a repo and nothing was wrong with it other than needing to be in the Powers' garage.
We took the van for a drive (these people don't even ask to see your ID -- a little too trusting maybe?) and we fell in love with it ... or at least I sure did. The sales rep didn't offer what we wanted for a trade in value on my car, but he did offer what we wanted on Justin's car which was back in Tecumseh no less. So what to do? We leave the car dealership, head home, Justin takes a few pictures of his car, emails them, makes a deal and then drives all the way BACK to Hays the very next morning!!! Yes, after all that driving over the weekend, he decides on Labor Day no less, that he would spend his day off and drive over six hours, to get me a much needed van. Needless to say, his lack of compassion regarding me looking pregnant was instantly forgotten.
Here is our amazing van -- or as Justin calls it -- "The Silver Bullet" because shockingly its wicked fast!
This van is a total dream! I truly never thought I would love a vehicle so much. Most of the vans we tried out seemed rickety and cheap, but this one is sleek and comfortable. Look at all that space in the back because of the stow-away seats. What you see in the back is Jocelyn's wheelchair, trike and a few other things and there is so much room for more. Can we say this is a dream? What I love the most is that it is now easy to get Jocelyn in and out of her carseat without nearly breaking my back, and I think she loves having her own air-system because she just giggles and smiles when I kick on the air and it blows in her face -- so cute!
I am feeling amazingly blessed with being able to get this van! Even though I told Justin "NO! We are not getting a van right now" (and I totally meant it), I'm glad he didn't listen to me and did what was best for us as a family. Sometimes I am too stubborn for my own good, but thankful my hubby balances me out.
Once my hubby got back from a second trip to hays in less than 12 hours, we quickly got ready for a BBQ at our house to celebrate labor day (and because we haven't had anyone over since we've moved into our new home). That night we had at least 13 adults and 5 kids at our house and it was a lot of fun. Sometimes I secretly get anxious about having people over because I don't want people to not enjoy themselves, sometimes I can be wrapped up with caring for Jocelyn, and I worry the kids will have a horrible time. It was the exact opposite! The kids loved Jocie's play/therapy room, the toys weren't too baby-ish for them, they had a blast running around outside, and it was all around a wonderful evening getting to chat with our friends. If any of you end up reading this, thank you so much for coming over, chowing down and spending the evening together. Justin and I really enjoyed having you all over!!
Okay, so simply writing this blog might have made me more tired for the fact that I've written way more than should be allowed in any single blog entry, and re-living the past two weeks has made me go "Whoa! That was definitely a whirlwind of fun and laughter, but now I'm oh so tired."
My sister Cindy flew in from Virgina on Wednesday August 22nd and we've been on the go ever since it seems. I haven't seen her in a year, so I was excited to get to spend a few days with her before she went to go pick up my super studly nephews from being at their dads house all summer.
We were lucky enough to get to spend about three days together before she was off to see a few friends and hang with the parentals. In light of her having recent surgery we didn't do a whole lot, but we are more about hanging out, talking, watching movies or playing games than actually going out and about.
While Cindy was here, we got to take her along to speech therapy so she could see Jocelyn in action, and I even think Jocelyn showed off a little bit for her auntie. That Friday we traveled to Salina to see our beloved physical therapist, Joyce, to cast some new DAFO's since Bobby chewed-up hers and because she has pretty much out-grown the current pair. While we were there, I also got to see my sweetie-pie of a friend, Allison, and she even had time to visit with us for a little while which was so lovely. The trip to Salina seemed long since the weather was terrible and at times the rain was coming down so hard you couldn't even see, but Aunt Cindy got to help pick out Jocelyn's design on her boots so they will be even more special. Who knows, maybe this will be the pair that we'll see big results with?
Of course Aunt Cindy gave Boogie lots of smooches while she was here -- hopefully enough to last another year if need be.
Its been several years since my sister and I have had pictures together, so it was nice to snap a few.
Donnell is now almost as tall as me and Tristen is still a cute little shrimp, but I know his time is coming soon. The first night the boys were here, Justin helped them set up a tent in our yard (we live in the country so we have a huge yard) so they could camp outside one of the nights and roast marshmallows. That was sort of a failure ... epic failure in fact ... Tristen didn't last 30 minutes and I woke up to Donnell watching TV on the couch at 1:30am. Needless to say, it was a sleepless night for all, but we wanted to try something new with them ... they are boys, don't boys like that kind of stuff?? But anyways, the next day Justin was able to get us into the flight facility at his work to see all the Blackhawk helicopters. The boys had a blast climbing in and out of them, checking out all the equipment and repeatedly would say "I can't believe Uncle Justin flies these big things." It was pretty cute and I had fun getting to see them so excited!
It took about six hours to get there, but we stopped at an amazing BBQ restaurant along the way in Nebraska City. Mickayla (she was the one that sent me that awesome care package a couple months ago that I blogged about) looked absolutely stunning in her wedding dress, and it was wonderful getting to wrap my arms around her and give her a great big hug! Its been several years since I've gotten to see her. A double score for me was that my other nursing friend Nicole came as well and we all got to hang out for the night. That was the first time I got the chance to meet her little boy Thayer and pictures just didn't do this squishy-faced sweetie justice!
We spent the night talking, laughing, eating and dancing. The night went entirely too fast and Jocelyn loved every minute of it. Between Justin and I, we danced every ounce of energy out of her. I honestly think she laughed from 8pm until 10:30pm ... non-stop ... no joking! I don't know how she laughs so much but we love it!!
I would post pictures of Mickayla, Nicole and I but of course I'm not awesome and didn't take any. :s Somtimes you just have to not worry about pictures and enjoy the moment. Lucky for us though, Nicole did take a few pictures and there was one that was super cute of us three, and then there were some that I seriously looked 6 months pregnant. Say what? How do I go from getting asked "You look amazing, have you been working out?" to "when are you due?" If those pictures ever get posted by Nicole, she better do some cropping that's all I gotta say hahaha. Oh, and just so you know how lovely my husband is, I told him how terrible I looked in the pictures and he says "Well, I told you to wear the other dress ... it was more flattering." Thanks honey ... thanks!
Here is a picture of the three of us from four years ago that will have to do for now. This was when Nicole got married right after nursing school. There is even another friend/classmate in this picture that is also getting married soon. She's the one not wearing green and her name is Jill -- she's a dollface!
Since we were in Hays anyways and have been looking at vans for months, we decided to stop by Hays AutoWorld. We have bought cars from this place before as they have always had impeccable customer service and wonderful cars. Now, I never thought I would EVER want a van, but Jocelyn has quite a bit of equipment that gets really heavy and I am tried of tearing everything apart just to put it in the car only to have to put things back together when we get somewhere.
AutoWorld had a large selection of Dodge and Chevy vans but we weren't impressed with those whatsoever. Then, to our surprise, we see a 2011 silver Toyota Sienna with only 5,000 miles on it. Our first thought was "hmmmmm, whats wrong with this van?" Come to find out, this van was a repo and nothing was wrong with it other than needing to be in the Powers' garage.
We took the van for a drive (these people don't even ask to see your ID -- a little too trusting maybe?) and we fell in love with it ... or at least I sure did. The sales rep didn't offer what we wanted for a trade in value on my car, but he did offer what we wanted on Justin's car which was back in Tecumseh no less. So what to do? We leave the car dealership, head home, Justin takes a few pictures of his car, emails them, makes a deal and then drives all the way BACK to Hays the very next morning!!! Yes, after all that driving over the weekend, he decides on Labor Day no less, that he would spend his day off and drive over six hours, to get me a much needed van. Needless to say, his lack of compassion regarding me looking pregnant was instantly forgotten.
Here is our amazing van -- or as Justin calls it -- "The Silver Bullet" because shockingly its wicked fast!
I am feeling amazingly blessed with being able to get this van! Even though I told Justin "NO! We are not getting a van right now" (and I totally meant it), I'm glad he didn't listen to me and did what was best for us as a family. Sometimes I am too stubborn for my own good, but thankful my hubby balances me out.
Once my hubby got back from a second trip to hays in less than 12 hours, we quickly got ready for a BBQ at our house to celebrate labor day (and because we haven't had anyone over since we've moved into our new home). That night we had at least 13 adults and 5 kids at our house and it was a lot of fun. Sometimes I secretly get anxious about having people over because I don't want people to not enjoy themselves, sometimes I can be wrapped up with caring for Jocelyn, and I worry the kids will have a horrible time. It was the exact opposite! The kids loved Jocie's play/therapy room, the toys weren't too baby-ish for them, they had a blast running around outside, and it was all around a wonderful evening getting to chat with our friends. If any of you end up reading this, thank you so much for coming over, chowing down and spending the evening together. Justin and I really enjoyed having you all over!!
Okay, so simply writing this blog might have made me more tired for the fact that I've written way more than should be allowed in any single blog entry, and re-living the past two weeks has made me go "Whoa! That was definitely a whirlwind of fun and laughter, but now I'm oh so tired."
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
FIRST World Cerebral Palsy Day 2012
You guessed it!
Lucky for me, I have parents that would do anything for me and love me to infinity and beyond!
Today marks a special day of raising awareness for all children and adults that are affected by cerebral palsy across the globe.
In honor of Jocelyn, I took on the World Cerebral Palsy Challenge of taking 10,000 steps a day. So since 10,000 steps is close to 5 miles ... thats what I ran today!
We encourage you to throw on some green or attach that green ribbon to show support for someone you know that lives with CP. From what we have learned from our daughter is that she doesn't suffer from CP, she succeeds in making every day her masterpiece even though she has CP!
Today marks the FIRST World Cerebral Palsy Day!!!
CP Facts:
- Cerebral Palsy is the most common motor disability among children
- Spastic CP is the most common type as it affects approximately 80% of children with CP
- About 30% of children with CP also have seizures
- Prevalence of CP around the world range from 1.5 to more than 4 children per 1,000 births
- Approximately 40% of those children born with cerebral palsy will have a severe case
- The United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) Research & Educational Foundation estimate between 1.5-2 million children & adults have CP in the United States alone
- Currently, at least 10,000 babies & infants are diagnosed with CP annually
- About half of people with CP use assistive devices including braces, walkers &/or wheelchairs to help them be more mobile
In honor of Jocelyn, I took on the World Cerebral Palsy Challenge of taking 10,000 steps a day. So since 10,000 steps is close to 5 miles ... thats what I ran today!
We encourage you to throw on some green or attach that green ribbon to show support for someone you know that lives with CP. From what we have learned from our daughter is that she doesn't suffer from CP, she succeeds in making every day her masterpiece even though she has CP!
Monday, September 3, 2012
Bobby
On Sunday, August 19th, we adopted a dog that was a male grey hound/shepherd mix named Bobby from Prairie Paws Animal Shelter in Ottawa, KS. We looked at several other shelters in Topeka and Lawrence, then made the even longer trip to Ottawa, which of course was where we found our lover of a beast.
Bobby had a previous owner who taught him well, but do to financial reasons, they had to move into an apartment and the apartment that they could afford wouldn't allow pets. We've been there before and understand how difficult it is to give away a family member. Several years ago we had to give away our sweet Tabby cat named Mr. Bigglesworth, and sometimes you are just forced to ensure they have a new or better home.
Here was my baby before I had our little Jocie-Bear.
Because of Bobby's last family, he already knew how to sit, lay, shake with both hands and was exceptionally well potty trained.
Isn't he the cutest? The color of his fur was really cool and he was actually hard to see when laying on the rug in the livingroom.
Bobby had a previous owner who taught him well, but do to financial reasons, they had to move into an apartment and the apartment that they could afford wouldn't allow pets. We've been there before and understand how difficult it is to give away a family member. Several years ago we had to give away our sweet Tabby cat named Mr. Bigglesworth, and sometimes you are just forced to ensure they have a new or better home.
Here was my baby before I had our little Jocie-Bear.
Isn't he the cutest? The color of his fur was really cool and he was actually hard to see when laying on the rug in the livingroom.
We have had our bout with Bobby being destructive, and his worse occurrence was when he chewed up Jocelyn's DAFO boots. For those of you who don't know what DAFO's are, they are special boots that Jocelyn wears in an attempt to keep her feet and ankles properly aligned and prevent contractures. Seeing how these cost at least $2,000 for one pair...I literally thought I would kill him! He knew the second I found those DAFO's, and said his name, that he was in trouble. No sooner did I say his name did he take off with his tail tucked and head down which of course made me feel bad for even getting mad. Poor pooch!
Other upsets we had were a destroyed garage door, shredded blankets, torn up garden, lots of holes in the yard and one terrified little girl.
Bobby was as gentle as a big dog could be and would give her kisses, but Jocelyn was terrified of him and she was constantly upset whenever he would even get close to her. He was a big time smoocher, and craved both attention and love. Another battle besides Jocelyn was apparently we are gone quite a bit because of our therapy and doctor appointments and with Justin's work schedule. The shelter was not aware of this, but Bobby has extreme separation anxiety. We tried putting him in different rooms, a kennel, outside...anywhere and everywhere...and he was always so upset and definitely destructive.
Now, its been greater than a decade since either Justin nor I have had a dog of our own and there are many things that we have forgotten. Unfortunately, because of what Bobby's been through, we think being left alone was so much worse for him. It was absolutely heartbreaking, but we took him back to the shelter because we felt that we couldn't come close to providing what he needed. I know, many of you are shaking your head at use or disappointed in our decision, but we felt it was worse to keep him if it was a terrible fit for all of us. We are not in the business of doing something like this, its been a new experience for us all, and Jocelyn is just not ready in the slightest.
The shelter informed us that there was doggy Prozac and other things we could try, but we just really already have our hands so full with simply taking care of Jocelyn, and adding a dog that requires special treatment just wasn't going to work in our life right now.
While we had him in our care, we provided a tremendous amount of love, fun and treats so we know he got spoiled as much as we could. Taking him back was very difficult so this is all I'm going to say about this right now because it still makes me very sad that he couldn't be a permanent member of our family.
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