It's been a two weeks since we found out about Collins. Monday she was diagnosed with a few more things. She has two motor speech disorders. Dysarthria and Apraxia. Dysarthria meaning her vocal, throat, tongue, mouth muscles are very week. Aprexia meaning her brain thinks of the word to say but short circuits, not being able to use her motor in her mouth to get it out.
Through all this I have been so blessed to see all the many tender mercies that have come our way.
I just wanted to share a one. My heart is full. Things I don't want to forget. Things that remind me, humble me, bless me and feel my heart with gratitude.
About nine months ago Dave had come to me and said I think I would like to join my brothers out in Boston selling solar. Mind you we have done this before. Move to another state for a few months. For a job. But this time we wouldn't be going for a few short summer months. This time I had five kids. Both of our summer selling experiences didn't work out for us. I remember telling Dave "We are never doing something like that again!"
This time was different. The feelings were different. I wasn't sure that I liked feeling at peace with going. I spent a day going to the temple, praying thinking, hopping I could go back to my husband and tell him, hey doesn't look like it's going to work out for us. Sorry but the spirit has advised other wise. Something I said once before we headed out to Connecticut for the summer. I sat there pondering hard, and wasn't getting what I wanted to hear. I mean, I was being realistic, I thought, and was judging on our past experiences. Those type of things just don't work out for us. But the harder I prayed something kept telling me this is the right thing for your family, you need to have faith. Then I thought OK maybe we could do it maybe I don't want to go because I'll be leaving everything behind like family, friends. I can't do that. I can't leave whats always been home for me. As days,months had past and the answer remained the same, calm and simple. I would try to pick apart the answer, questioning, how is this best for our family? But the answer has never changed. It's the right thing for your family!
I excepted that we would move and kept putting it in the back of my mind. Will see what happens I often thought. Life continued. Having five kids sure keeps a mother busy, let alone two out of five of our children have physical disabilities which keeps our appointment book filled. The last two months have been crazy busy. I thought of moving wasn't really there. My husband how ever had been counting down. He leaves in a few weeks. Leaving me for single mother-hood for a few months.Trying to cram in Doctor. appointments so that Dave can be there with me, things he doesn't want to miss either.
The time came to discuss Collins MRI with her Neurologist. And then it hit me! My tender mercy. After explaining everything that was going on she asked Dave and I, if we would be interested in traveling to other states for services as other states services are more progressive. She continued to tell us how they send families all over to help with patients particular diagnosis. "Yes of course!" "What state offers the best service for what our Collins needs." we asked. (We had never mentioned that we would be moving out of state soon.) She began to tell us " Boston has the best services for what you will need for her." "Would that be something your interested in." Tears streamed down my face. My answer was clear. I now knew why the move was the right thing for my family! My tender mercy.
I am grateful for these moments. I am grateful for the lord's had in all thing's, that he is watching over my little family. It has been so hard for the doctors to figure out what's going on often confusing them. I have sure gained an even stronger testimony that the lord has a time line for everything. Finding out when we did. This move. I am excited to get there now. And so excited to know Collins will get all the therapy she can. Being told by the doctors because now that she has a diagnosis she will receive services everyday instead of twice a month. So look out Boston and take that Dystarthria and Aprexia because this HT Cerebral Palsy beauty is headed your way and there's no stopping her and what she can do!
Thursday, January 15, 2015
Sunday, January 11, 2015
Where to begin....
Where to begin.
I haven't blogged in so long.
I haven't seen my blog in years.
As this week has been a rough one for us. We have had so many friends, family etc. call, pm me Facebook and extend love and concern for our sweet Collins. I thought how do I go about sharing my thoughts and feelings. Do I want people to know about her? I certainly don't want to label my child and don't want others to do so either. My blog came to my mind and decided this was good time to bring it back and way to get out how I feel and to share with others, those who have asked "what's wrong!" So here goes nothing!
From the moment I had Collins there was something special about her. Not that my other children aren't special but from the moment I held her there was just this something, something I felt about her that was different.
As she stared to grow we noticed that she wasn't meeting milestones that she was supposed to. So many times every one around us would share stories with us like "my kid took a long time to do such an such" but as a mom I just knew something wasn't right. As kind as people were to encourage me and say "she's fine, I'm sure you have nothing to worry about." In my heart. My instinct as mother. I just knew. At times I admit I would internally get frustrated, sometimes angry with people as I was often told, "she doesn't look handicap" " your making it to big of a deal." "You have to stop comparing her to your other children." I knew people meant well, but in my heart, well a mom just knows.
Visiting with our Pediatrician who agreed that something just wasn't matching up. So begin our journey of what's wrong and why. We started with simple things. X-rays. Everything was fine there. Secretly I was hoping all the things that had been said to us would prove me wrong and we would find nothing and I was just being and over dramatic mom. We did blood work and some other tests. Everything was fine there. As we continued down this path we just weren't finding anything as to why she didn't start sitting up until she was one. Why everything startled her and she would cry for hours. Why she had no interest in speaking. Why she choked all the time, once scaring me so bad I thought I needed to call an ambulance. She was so purple and I swear minutes had gone by that she wasn't getting any oxygen to her brain.
Why it wasn't until she was eighteen months she finally started to crawl, not on all fours but army crawl. Why we still aren't talking. Let me tell you something about Collins she is so smart. Often times doing things that surprised me. She wasn't meeting milestones but I knew she was a smart little girl and I just couldn't understand why. At eighteen months we decided it was finally time to get involved in early intervention. They came. They evaluated, she scored so low on everything that we were approved. They couldn't tell us anything either as to why.
She made great strides in physical therapy. She made my worries as a mother a little less. All my what if she never, at ease. She was finally walking! It took her a year. She was progressing. I was a proud mom. Now I don't want you think I never had faith in her, faith that she could do hard things. For the most part I am and optimistic person and a positive, up beat person. But as a mom you just worry. You want the best for your child. You want them to experience everything they can, to learn and grow.
Finally it was suggested to us that we visit with and orthopedic doctor at Shriner's hospital to be fitted for inserts and talk about a diagnosis. We meet with her and were given the diagnosis of Hyper tonic Cerebral Palsy. An MRI was ordered. Wow, what did we just hear! When I think of someone having CP so much comes to my mind. But Collins didn't fit the mold of what I thought I knew about it. So many thoughts and feelings coursed through Dave and I. We went back to the car and both of us just cried. What did all this mean? What did this mean for Collins and her life? So many questions like, how did this happen? Collins had a traumatic birth. Cord wrapped around her neck, broken collar bone and a collapsed lung. All my thoughts raced to that day. Was that the cause? Did the doctors miss something? I wasn't sure how to feel. We collected our thoughts and reminded our self that we still hadn't had her MRI and slayed a prayer in hopes that her brain was not involved. December came and it was MRI time. Collins did so well even while getting poked for an IV she still was willing to give out hugs to all the nurses in the room, even the ones that poked her. If any one knows Collins knows she is such a sweet girl she loves to hug everyone even random strangers especially when we are shopping at Costco. Its her way of saying thank you for all the great food samples. This is something I love about her. She loves everyone and wants to love on everyone.
Christmas came, New Years came and we waited patiently waited for the phone call, the one that I wasn't sure if I wanted to hear. It came. The messenger on the phone was kind but his voice got soft and quite "I hate to inform you Mrs. Gallagher but we found somethings some brain Admiralties that are concerning. Things that we don't want to discuss over the phone. We need you to come in as soon as possible and meet with the Neurologist. Can you be here tomorrow." OF COURSE! Getting off the phone so many more thoughts. What are they going to say to us? Whats wrong that they just can't tell me over the phone? The next day came. trying to not read into things trying to not let myself go there. Our PT had said the day before we went in, sometimes when they call parents in like that it could mean something bad like a tumor. "Oh please not that!" I thought, don't go there Brooke!
We arrived and were taken back right away. It seemed like forever. Dr. Kerr came in and told us what her brain scans said. Some where in my pregnancy Collins lost some of her brain cells. Which means you have a right side and a left side of the brain and the brain cells or tracks are what connect the two together. Collins is missing half of what the normal person is born with. She wont get these back. We have a part of the brain called the Basal Ganglia, both of Collins BG are dysmorphic meaning that are shaped oddly. The BG is the part of the brain were it forms habits and then maintains the repetition of the habit. It also controls motor and breathing. There are different parts of the Basal Ganglia one part in particular is more rounded then it supposed to be and larger in volume as well. Her head and brain are also not growing as fast as they should but so far not a huge concern for the doctors at this moment. Being told that there not sure if she will ever talk.
So there we have it. We will have to see the neurologist every 6 months to watch the growth of her head. Will be taking on a new speech therapist along with our wonderful other one. Collins starts a special toddler class or did start last week really. And we will continue with our other three wonderful therapist at home.
We have so many questions. Lot of them which cannot be answered, but only time will tell what will become of Collins life. I have been up and down in the feeling department. Moments of tears running down my face wondering if she will have everything in life I wanted her to. I've done the guilt thing. Was there something I could have done different in my pregnancy? Feeling like not again. We already have one other child with a physical deformity's. Warner's cleft lip. Now I have another one. What have I done.
But because of my faith and what I believe in. Everything will be just fine!
I believe that Heavenly father has a plan for us, plans we may not understand. I try to look at the positive and am grateful that it could be so much worse. I'm grateful that cognitively she is just fine and she understands. She really is a smart little girl. I am grateful that when I am feeling down or scared about not knowing what's around the corner the Saviour is there by side to comfort me. I can feel it. There will be days that are hard for her. Days like now that we face every day. Days were she gets tired from walking and we have to carry her. Days were she is so clumsy because of her muscle control. I look forward to hearing her voice when ever that will be as much as I love her sweet signing I can't wait to her "I love you!" We will treat her like the rest of our other children except for she has a disadvantage that makes achievement difficult. That she can do hard things. But really everyone has a Handicap. Anything is possible and we will in courage her to work hard and support her along this bumpy road. Most of all it's this sweet little girl without knowing it, in courage's me to be her best mom I can. She has no idea what's going on. I love how she tries so hard to be one of the big kids. Doesn't want to be left out of anything, and try's so hard to keep up with them. It's this happy attitude that she carries around with her that I hope to always have something I admire in my two an half year old.
I am so grateful for My Husband. I know it has been hard for him. I feel so blessed to go down this path with him. Collins loves her daddy more then anyone. We really make a great team. There is no one better. I am so grateful for all the wonderful therapist that we have been so blessed to have in our home. They have worked so hard with Collins pushing and in couraging her to do anything. I am so grateful they have been there for Dave and I to support us call us to check on us after appointments. For hugging me when I cry. For loving our sweet Collins. We have been so blessed and are so grateful that the lord has in trusted us with this sweet baby. We are ready to dive right into this journey together and I couldn't pick a better family to do it with. Thank you for all your love and support. We are still learning so much about CP if you have questions please don't hesitate to ask.
I haven't blogged in so long.
I haven't seen my blog in years.
As this week has been a rough one for us. We have had so many friends, family etc. call, pm me Facebook and extend love and concern for our sweet Collins. I thought how do I go about sharing my thoughts and feelings. Do I want people to know about her? I certainly don't want to label my child and don't want others to do so either. My blog came to my mind and decided this was good time to bring it back and way to get out how I feel and to share with others, those who have asked "what's wrong!" So here goes nothing!
From the moment I had Collins there was something special about her. Not that my other children aren't special but from the moment I held her there was just this something, something I felt about her that was different.
As she stared to grow we noticed that she wasn't meeting milestones that she was supposed to. So many times every one around us would share stories with us like "my kid took a long time to do such an such" but as a mom I just knew something wasn't right. As kind as people were to encourage me and say "she's fine, I'm sure you have nothing to worry about." In my heart. My instinct as mother. I just knew. At times I admit I would internally get frustrated, sometimes angry with people as I was often told, "she doesn't look handicap" " your making it to big of a deal." "You have to stop comparing her to your other children." I knew people meant well, but in my heart, well a mom just knows.
Visiting with our Pediatrician who agreed that something just wasn't matching up. So begin our journey of what's wrong and why. We started with simple things. X-rays. Everything was fine there. Secretly I was hoping all the things that had been said to us would prove me wrong and we would find nothing and I was just being and over dramatic mom. We did blood work and some other tests. Everything was fine there. As we continued down this path we just weren't finding anything as to why she didn't start sitting up until she was one. Why everything startled her and she would cry for hours. Why she had no interest in speaking. Why she choked all the time, once scaring me so bad I thought I needed to call an ambulance. She was so purple and I swear minutes had gone by that she wasn't getting any oxygen to her brain.
Why it wasn't until she was eighteen months she finally started to crawl, not on all fours but army crawl. Why we still aren't talking. Let me tell you something about Collins she is so smart. Often times doing things that surprised me. She wasn't meeting milestones but I knew she was a smart little girl and I just couldn't understand why. At eighteen months we decided it was finally time to get involved in early intervention. They came. They evaluated, she scored so low on everything that we were approved. They couldn't tell us anything either as to why.
She made great strides in physical therapy. She made my worries as a mother a little less. All my what if she never, at ease. She was finally walking! It took her a year. She was progressing. I was a proud mom. Now I don't want you think I never had faith in her, faith that she could do hard things. For the most part I am and optimistic person and a positive, up beat person. But as a mom you just worry. You want the best for your child. You want them to experience everything they can, to learn and grow.
Finally it was suggested to us that we visit with and orthopedic doctor at Shriner's hospital to be fitted for inserts and talk about a diagnosis. We meet with her and were given the diagnosis of Hyper tonic Cerebral Palsy. An MRI was ordered. Wow, what did we just hear! When I think of someone having CP so much comes to my mind. But Collins didn't fit the mold of what I thought I knew about it. So many thoughts and feelings coursed through Dave and I. We went back to the car and both of us just cried. What did all this mean? What did this mean for Collins and her life? So many questions like, how did this happen? Collins had a traumatic birth. Cord wrapped around her neck, broken collar bone and a collapsed lung. All my thoughts raced to that day. Was that the cause? Did the doctors miss something? I wasn't sure how to feel. We collected our thoughts and reminded our self that we still hadn't had her MRI and slayed a prayer in hopes that her brain was not involved. December came and it was MRI time. Collins did so well even while getting poked for an IV she still was willing to give out hugs to all the nurses in the room, even the ones that poked her. If any one knows Collins knows she is such a sweet girl she loves to hug everyone even random strangers especially when we are shopping at Costco. Its her way of saying thank you for all the great food samples. This is something I love about her. She loves everyone and wants to love on everyone.
Christmas came, New Years came and we waited patiently waited for the phone call, the one that I wasn't sure if I wanted to hear. It came. The messenger on the phone was kind but his voice got soft and quite "I hate to inform you Mrs. Gallagher but we found somethings some brain Admiralties that are concerning. Things that we don't want to discuss over the phone. We need you to come in as soon as possible and meet with the Neurologist. Can you be here tomorrow." OF COURSE! Getting off the phone so many more thoughts. What are they going to say to us? Whats wrong that they just can't tell me over the phone? The next day came. trying to not read into things trying to not let myself go there. Our PT had said the day before we went in, sometimes when they call parents in like that it could mean something bad like a tumor. "Oh please not that!" I thought, don't go there Brooke!
We arrived and were taken back right away. It seemed like forever. Dr. Kerr came in and told us what her brain scans said. Some where in my pregnancy Collins lost some of her brain cells. Which means you have a right side and a left side of the brain and the brain cells or tracks are what connect the two together. Collins is missing half of what the normal person is born with. She wont get these back. We have a part of the brain called the Basal Ganglia, both of Collins BG are dysmorphic meaning that are shaped oddly. The BG is the part of the brain were it forms habits and then maintains the repetition of the habit. It also controls motor and breathing. There are different parts of the Basal Ganglia one part in particular is more rounded then it supposed to be and larger in volume as well. Her head and brain are also not growing as fast as they should but so far not a huge concern for the doctors at this moment. Being told that there not sure if she will ever talk.
So there we have it. We will have to see the neurologist every 6 months to watch the growth of her head. Will be taking on a new speech therapist along with our wonderful other one. Collins starts a special toddler class or did start last week really. And we will continue with our other three wonderful therapist at home.
We have so many questions. Lot of them which cannot be answered, but only time will tell what will become of Collins life. I have been up and down in the feeling department. Moments of tears running down my face wondering if she will have everything in life I wanted her to. I've done the guilt thing. Was there something I could have done different in my pregnancy? Feeling like not again. We already have one other child with a physical deformity's. Warner's cleft lip. Now I have another one. What have I done.
But because of my faith and what I believe in. Everything will be just fine!
I believe that Heavenly father has a plan for us, plans we may not understand. I try to look at the positive and am grateful that it could be so much worse. I'm grateful that cognitively she is just fine and she understands. She really is a smart little girl. I am grateful that when I am feeling down or scared about not knowing what's around the corner the Saviour is there by side to comfort me. I can feel it. There will be days that are hard for her. Days like now that we face every day. Days were she gets tired from walking and we have to carry her. Days were she is so clumsy because of her muscle control. I look forward to hearing her voice when ever that will be as much as I love her sweet signing I can't wait to her "I love you!" We will treat her like the rest of our other children except for she has a disadvantage that makes achievement difficult. That she can do hard things. But really everyone has a Handicap. Anything is possible and we will in courage her to work hard and support her along this bumpy road. Most of all it's this sweet little girl without knowing it, in courage's me to be her best mom I can. She has no idea what's going on. I love how she tries so hard to be one of the big kids. Doesn't want to be left out of anything, and try's so hard to keep up with them. It's this happy attitude that she carries around with her that I hope to always have something I admire in my two an half year old.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Just a number of things I've done today!
So I did this post a while back and today's events, adventure, mishaps and a book I read to my kids after getting them to settle down (The very hungry caterpillar) reminded of that post. So again I thought I would do another one like that!
Last night wasn't to bad of a night. I only had to remind and return Boston to his bed 1 time last night.Thanks to the elf on the shelf in my home Boston is doing his best to stay in line and listen. I do however wish there was a mythical creature of some sort I could keep in my home all year round to get my kids to listen! Any thoughts of what would work? Maybe I can tell them that's why we have a dog she's actually magic or something I don't know!
This morning we got the kids all ready for there Christmas program at pre-school. They did such a good job singing and putting on a cute show for all the parents. Boston and Bailey then did a cute gift/book exchange with the other kids in there class. We brought home 2 new books to add to there bookshelf. Let's see how long they will last before Warner realizes that "Boy, there's something wrong with those books, I know they haven't been ripped to shreds I must help out mom and take care of that right away!"
WARNING: This might be TMI, before you continue on..... but I am happy for me! I have only had to visit the toilet fair 3 times today! My kids are so sweet except Boston did tell me "hurry up mom I have to go potty and your taking to long!" to which I replied "there is another toilet bud," in between gag reflexes. Kids! It's like me being pregnant is old news for the 4 1/2 year old!
We haven't done to much today, just hanging out in the play room watching movies. We love Christmas movies and there is a reason they only come out at the holiday's, not only because it's the most wonderful time of the year and what wonderful memories they remind us of but if I have to watch the Grinch one more time........I might loose it, we have watched it 4 times today and that's just today. I am pretty sure sense we hit December we have watched it at least a hundred times! (maybe that's a little over the top but it sure feels that way!)
I realized Christmas is only twelve days away so I took a look at my Christmas list to see were I was at with my Christmas shopping. It's not bad, still have some to do. But I only have 5 things left on my shopping list! Yay!!! much less then I then I list in my head!
Today was supposed to be Dave's day off ! I had all these plans to spend the day as a family and be lazy, hang out and bake cookies with the kids and go around and pass them out as a family. Unfortunately Dave was called into work and my plans of the five of us being together in my kitchen having a blissful baking night of fun are not going to work out. So Dave will be leaving us at 6 and be home in the wee hours of the morning.
I used to have Wednesday be my laundry day but now that I have a bigger home and three kids and a husband I can't have just one day be laundry day. Everyday is laundry day! It amazes me how fast, magically whatever you want to call it, the laundry can pile up! I swear I did all or most of it yesterday but I guess not because I'm on my 7 Th load! It's a sad realization that I have this amount of laundry to do for eighteen more years! At what point and age does laundry become a chore? Who out there thinks four is to early to start, he does tell me all the time he is the big bro in charge and likes to remind me even though he is in pre-school he does go to high school with the big kids, he does make a good point! So with that being the case, like I said who think four is to young?
Bailey loves having the elf in our house. She definitely considers herself his little helper or "has his back" one might say. She reports to him when she sees fit to make sure the elf is catching every thing, good or bad, naughty or nice. She has had many conversations with him, 8 so far today in fact! Whether it's to report any hitting, saying please and thank yous or just telling him a story of her own. She cracks me up when I can hear the things she shares with him and waits patiently for a response but nothing comes from his mouth and she so kindly says to him " It's OK I know it's one of Santa's rules that you can't talk to me or you will loose your magic." It melts my heart! I love what Christmas is and what it represents but not only that the sweet innocence that children have at this time of the year. I am so blessed to have three of them in my home and soon a fourth will be here to share it's unconditional love and innocence with us! I am a lucky, blessed, rewarded times three, mom!
So far today I can't think of anything that has, been, almost, happened 9 times. I do know that I use I word "NO" often. It often takes me 9 times or more before I can get a response or people moving around here. I am almost sure my kids think that, that's the only word I know especially Warner. But I guess it's a good thing, a positive way to see things I really haven't had to say "NO" that much today. That's always refreshing in one's home when you spend most of your day as a stay home mom and feel like a broken record!
I really do love winter! I love living in a state that gives me opportunity to experience the joy of having all four seasons. I love all the the things that I get to look forward that comes with each one, whether it be getting out new decerotions for my home, spending outside playing in the sun or just staying in by the fire place reading, watching a movie and eating something warm out of the crock pot. Something I love about winter is pulling out all my winter boots which I'm sure every women does. So I thought today While my two older ones were occupied by the Grinch, and Warner napped. I decided that just because my feet go into hibernation for the next few months why not still make them feel pretty in there home of winter boots, so I painted all 10 of my toes hot pink even though no one will ever see them!
Last night wasn't to bad of a night. I only had to remind and return Boston to his bed 1 time last night.Thanks to the elf on the shelf in my home Boston is doing his best to stay in line and listen. I do however wish there was a mythical creature of some sort I could keep in my home all year round to get my kids to listen! Any thoughts of what would work? Maybe I can tell them that's why we have a dog she's actually magic or something I don't know!
This morning we got the kids all ready for there Christmas program at pre-school. They did such a good job singing and putting on a cute show for all the parents. Boston and Bailey then did a cute gift/book exchange with the other kids in there class. We brought home 2 new books to add to there bookshelf. Let's see how long they will last before Warner realizes that "Boy, there's something wrong with those books, I know they haven't been ripped to shreds I must help out mom and take care of that right away!"
WARNING: This might be TMI, before you continue on..... but I am happy for me! I have only had to visit the toilet fair 3 times today! My kids are so sweet except Boston did tell me "hurry up mom I have to go potty and your taking to long!" to which I replied "there is another toilet bud," in between gag reflexes. Kids! It's like me being pregnant is old news for the 4 1/2 year old!
We haven't done to much today, just hanging out in the play room watching movies. We love Christmas movies and there is a reason they only come out at the holiday's, not only because it's the most wonderful time of the year and what wonderful memories they remind us of but if I have to watch the Grinch one more time........I might loose it, we have watched it 4 times today and that's just today. I am pretty sure sense we hit December we have watched it at least a hundred times! (maybe that's a little over the top but it sure feels that way!)
I realized Christmas is only twelve days away so I took a look at my Christmas list to see were I was at with my Christmas shopping. It's not bad, still have some to do. But I only have 5 things left on my shopping list! Yay!!! much less then I then I list in my head!
Today was supposed to be Dave's day off ! I had all these plans to spend the day as a family and be lazy, hang out and bake cookies with the kids and go around and pass them out as a family. Unfortunately Dave was called into work and my plans of the five of us being together in my kitchen having a blissful baking night of fun are not going to work out. So Dave will be leaving us at 6 and be home in the wee hours of the morning.
I used to have Wednesday be my laundry day but now that I have a bigger home and three kids and a husband I can't have just one day be laundry day. Everyday is laundry day! It amazes me how fast, magically whatever you want to call it, the laundry can pile up! I swear I did all or most of it yesterday but I guess not because I'm on my 7 Th load! It's a sad realization that I have this amount of laundry to do for eighteen more years! At what point and age does laundry become a chore? Who out there thinks four is to early to start, he does tell me all the time he is the big bro in charge and likes to remind me even though he is in pre-school he does go to high school with the big kids, he does make a good point! So with that being the case, like I said who think four is to young?
Bailey loves having the elf in our house. She definitely considers herself his little helper or "has his back" one might say. She reports to him when she sees fit to make sure the elf is catching every thing, good or bad, naughty or nice. She has had many conversations with him, 8 so far today in fact! Whether it's to report any hitting, saying please and thank yous or just telling him a story of her own. She cracks me up when I can hear the things she shares with him and waits patiently for a response but nothing comes from his mouth and she so kindly says to him " It's OK I know it's one of Santa's rules that you can't talk to me or you will loose your magic." It melts my heart! I love what Christmas is and what it represents but not only that the sweet innocence that children have at this time of the year. I am so blessed to have three of them in my home and soon a fourth will be here to share it's unconditional love and innocence with us! I am a lucky, blessed, rewarded times three, mom!
So far today I can't think of anything that has, been, almost, happened 9 times. I do know that I use I word "NO" often. It often takes me 9 times or more before I can get a response or people moving around here. I am almost sure my kids think that, that's the only word I know especially Warner. But I guess it's a good thing, a positive way to see things I really haven't had to say "NO" that much today. That's always refreshing in one's home when you spend most of your day as a stay home mom and feel like a broken record!
I really do love winter! I love living in a state that gives me opportunity to experience the joy of having all four seasons. I love all the the things that I get to look forward that comes with each one, whether it be getting out new decerotions for my home, spending outside playing in the sun or just staying in by the fire place reading, watching a movie and eating something warm out of the crock pot. Something I love about winter is pulling out all my winter boots which I'm sure every women does. So I thought today While my two older ones were occupied by the Grinch, and Warner napped. I decided that just because my feet go into hibernation for the next few months why not still make them feel pretty in there home of winter boots, so I painted all 10 of my toes hot pink even though no one will ever see them!
Friday, December 2, 2011
Friday, November 18, 2011
it's been a while ..... in fact it's been over a year, rewind, redo!
Wow times fly when your life gets busy with three kids. It was last that I posted just having my third. So now he's 18 months you say and practically a toddler, how could I miss blogging about him and the other three special people in my life. Trust me just cause I didn't have much to blog about (actually there was A LOT to blog about just not enough time!) Maybe I can now that there's and extra hour these days, I have no excuse. Well sense I have missed blogging due to trying to juggle everyone and everything, (in the midst of my juggling I couldn't mange all I had and the computer too) so here's to my blogging attempt number 2. With that said, first post to blog number 2 will be our year in review!
1. Warner Owen Joined our family June 26, 10 with a minor Birth defect
2. Warner had his first of 3 surgery's on October 3 that repaired his cleft lip. And may I say what a great surgical time they have at primary's. I am so grateful!
3. Boston Started his first year of pr-school in September from a wonderful lady in our ward in Salt lake, a lady that I have learned so much from! What an amazing family she has.
4. Boston's pre-school teacher's husband looses a battle to cancer of the body, I stepped in everyday to play pre-school teacher. That was exhausting but so rewarding!
5. With Halloween around the corner, Boston was a dragon, Bailey girl was a bumble bee and Warner was a duck. Of course in our family everyone gets to be a duck there first Halloween.
6. Typical Christmas in the Gallagher house but it was Warner's first Christmas!
7. We had a special visit by Grandpa Mike in February. The kids love there Grandpa!
8. I lost my sweet granny on my birthday. I will miss her so much!!!
9. my bro and I re-unite with our dad and couldn't be happier.
10. We move and are waiting for our new home in Orem to be ready while waiting we get the chance to stay with grandma Linda and aunt Megan. The kids loved the ducks at grandmas apartment complex!
11. I had a scary miscarriage which lead to emergency surgery and blood transfusion. I pray that never happens again!
12. We are finally moved into our home in Orem and absolutely love it the kids I couldn't be more happier!
13. Boston loves soccer and his soccer team
14. Boston turns 4, Bailey turns 3, Warner turns 1! Happy Birthday in June!
15. Dave and I celebrate our fifth wedding anniversary!
16. another great visit from grandma Margret and Grandpa Mike. We always look forward to this time of year!
17. Boston and Bailey start pre-school. Bailey is so excited to be big like her brother!
18. Dave and I are excited for new church callings. Dave is the ward cub scout master and I serve as activity's day leader.
19. Boston breaks his right arm!
Which brings us to present, life has been wonderful, sad, crazy and fun! I wouldn't have it any other way I love my little family what joy my heart is constantly filled with.
Ps. On a side note we are expecting baby number 4 coming this June 3, 2012 Boston says it's should be named spider man while Bailey is routing for Cinderella. Dare I tell them those are not options!
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Were back in business!
So I have not blogged in a really long time. I try to get away with one pic and a few sentences but I hear from others that's not cutting it, it's not a real update they say. My brother has been out of town with work a lot this summer and I his wonderful sister, let him take my lap top with him so he can skype his cute little family back home. (This being my excuse for the lack blogging, is it working?) Not to mention are recent new family member who takes all my time even though most of it is watching him sleep so peacefully. And of course the two other children that we already had. Not to much is different with them except Bailey did turn two, and boy did she let me know it! (oh and did I mention shes a red head, if you know any red heads you know what I am talking about! nothing bad intended to fellow red heads, cause boy we sure love this little lady!) And always there is the husband and the dog blah, blah, blah I think you get the picture. So with that said here is or family update with no pictures but as soon as I get my computer back we should be back in business!
Dave- Dave like always is working hard for our family. He recently got a job promotion and is now the new assistant Manager at Biglots. We are so proud of him. Mom really loves his new work schedule sense our house schedule has changed a little bet in the last few weeks. He is here in the morning until noon and back home by six, it's great! He of course is always working out and his newest hobby is road biking. He frequently points out the bike he wants that is worth more than a car. I told him if ever gets one, that is his Christmas and birthday for the next thirty years! And as you all know or maybe I am just being byest but he is the best dad ever. These kiddos of ours just love him to pieces!
Brooke- Brooke is loving being mom again for the third time around! I am still is trying to figure out how to mange three kids though, which some days are better than others. I do feel as long as we are all bathed and dressed by eleven, all kids have had breakfast and at least one maybe two rooms are still not destroyed than that day might just be OK! I still try to sneak in a craft or two but I am finding out it takes me a lot longer to get them done than I like. My new favorite thing right now besides my new baby is my jelly bean baby sling. It has made my life that much easier and it all so keeps Warner safe from two, three feet tall predators that roam our home daily.
Boston- What can I say this little guy isn't so little anymore, he is always playing some kind of sport. He currently rocks a catchers met and mask around the house 24/7 and is always wanting some one to pitch him a ball. He loves Scooby Doo and Little rascals. He heard a bad word the other day " Holly C***" I had to tell him that was not an OK word to say. I also asked him "Do you think that is a word Jesus uses?' he told me no and that Jesus says "Holy molely" instead. We were at the store the other day and the man in line behind us said they above mentioned word and Boston said to him "excuse me but Jesus does not say holy c*** he says holly moley" and if he kept saying it he would get a time out! I guess you had to be there! He is such a great big helper to mom with new baby Warner. I can't believe my once and only baby, the first baby to makes us a family is now as big as he is, a leader and example to his other siblings. He is doing such a great job leading the way. This could not make his mom and dad more happier!
Bailey- Bailey, Bailey, Bailey! My seek and destroy child as I call her. Or that at least that is her daily mission. This little one has a fire so strong I don't know if any one will ever tame it or put it out! And I love her for that! She is always on the go and is always keeping me on my toes. People always remind me "You know shes a red head, they just come that way". But enough said about her wild and craziness, I do hope these are her only wild and crazy days! She is every thing girlie. She loves to dance like no other. I just love coming home from church on Sundays she sings all of the rest of the day all the songs she sang in nursery. Her favorite song to sing to baby Warner is wheels on the bus and of course the part where the mommy on the bus goes shh, shh, shh to the baby. She does give me a little scare around the baby. She has all ready tried to walk off with him a few times but I know some day she will make the best mommy ever! I just love this little girls spirit!
Warner- There's something about a new baby in your home. It amazes me how much love you have for each of your children each so strong as the next. I can't express how much I love this new little man in my life! As I was pregnant with him I knew what strong spirit he was even before we knew of his birth defect. He is such a good baby and I sure can't complain about the six hours he sleeps ever night. We were so blessed to find out that all he had was a cleft lip. When we had his ultrasound they told us the the problems that he would have had when he got here and they also prepared us for roughly about 6-10 surgery's that he would need in the next sixteen years of life. Boy was that sure over whelming but we got ready and sure enough only one small minor thing was wrong. So September 30Th, Warner will have his first of only two surgery's. We know that he will do so well and will be so strong!
Dave- Dave like always is working hard for our family. He recently got a job promotion and is now the new assistant Manager at Biglots. We are so proud of him. Mom really loves his new work schedule sense our house schedule has changed a little bet in the last few weeks. He is here in the morning until noon and back home by six, it's great! He of course is always working out and his newest hobby is road biking. He frequently points out the bike he wants that is worth more than a car. I told him if ever gets one, that is his Christmas and birthday for the next thirty years! And as you all know or maybe I am just being byest but he is the best dad ever. These kiddos of ours just love him to pieces!
Brooke- Brooke is loving being mom again for the third time around! I am still is trying to figure out how to mange three kids though, which some days are better than others. I do feel as long as we are all bathed and dressed by eleven, all kids have had breakfast and at least one maybe two rooms are still not destroyed than that day might just be OK! I still try to sneak in a craft or two but I am finding out it takes me a lot longer to get them done than I like. My new favorite thing right now besides my new baby is my jelly bean baby sling. It has made my life that much easier and it all so keeps Warner safe from two, three feet tall predators that roam our home daily.
Boston- What can I say this little guy isn't so little anymore, he is always playing some kind of sport. He currently rocks a catchers met and mask around the house 24/7 and is always wanting some one to pitch him a ball. He loves Scooby Doo and Little rascals. He heard a bad word the other day " Holly C***" I had to tell him that was not an OK word to say. I also asked him "Do you think that is a word Jesus uses?' he told me no and that Jesus says "Holy molely" instead. We were at the store the other day and the man in line behind us said they above mentioned word and Boston said to him "excuse me but Jesus does not say holy c*** he says holly moley" and if he kept saying it he would get a time out! I guess you had to be there! He is such a great big helper to mom with new baby Warner. I can't believe my once and only baby, the first baby to makes us a family is now as big as he is, a leader and example to his other siblings. He is doing such a great job leading the way. This could not make his mom and dad more happier!
Bailey- Bailey, Bailey, Bailey! My seek and destroy child as I call her. Or that at least that is her daily mission. This little one has a fire so strong I don't know if any one will ever tame it or put it out! And I love her for that! She is always on the go and is always keeping me on my toes. People always remind me "You know shes a red head, they just come that way". But enough said about her wild and craziness, I do hope these are her only wild and crazy days! She is every thing girlie. She loves to dance like no other. I just love coming home from church on Sundays she sings all of the rest of the day all the songs she sang in nursery. Her favorite song to sing to baby Warner is wheels on the bus and of course the part where the mommy on the bus goes shh, shh, shh to the baby. She does give me a little scare around the baby. She has all ready tried to walk off with him a few times but I know some day she will make the best mommy ever! I just love this little girls spirit!
Warner- There's something about a new baby in your home. It amazes me how much love you have for each of your children each so strong as the next. I can't express how much I love this new little man in my life! As I was pregnant with him I knew what strong spirit he was even before we knew of his birth defect. He is such a good baby and I sure can't complain about the six hours he sleeps ever night. We were so blessed to find out that all he had was a cleft lip. When we had his ultrasound they told us the the problems that he would have had when he got here and they also prepared us for roughly about 6-10 surgery's that he would need in the next sixteen years of life. Boy was that sure over whelming but we got ready and sure enough only one small minor thing was wrong. So September 30Th, Warner will have his first of only two surgery's. We know that he will do so well and will be so strong!
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