tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2738408156487277212024-02-19T00:25:47.516-08:00The Chronicles of CrapA Journey Through My Intestinal Tract and BeyondAlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.comBlogger329125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-22468977332546401652014-12-23T10:51:00.001-08:002014-12-23T10:51:16.513-08:00H is For...I'm here at the infusion center (got to take a couple month break from visiting this place) and so here I am back in blog land. <div><br></div><div>As it does for most, the fall flew by and it's hard to believe that It's Christmas Eve Eve. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1nnQpDPHd3jiBu_5YtGGaHS4MtaGG6X5nqtOjY7-pTyGZaxCVCkzTSeSjqljd6l3aTAuqkvg6WBVQFeNB0Ibuap-D_gJ7OqIwIhVXUb7z7eS96vnWhTvM5UCc51ONreWNVpm4yaOwKpAA/s640/blogger-image--1037854729.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1nnQpDPHd3jiBu_5YtGGaHS4MtaGG6X5nqtOjY7-pTyGZaxCVCkzTSeSjqljd6l3aTAuqkvg6WBVQFeNB0Ibuap-D_gJ7OqIwIhVXUb7z7eS96vnWhTvM5UCc51ONreWNVpm4yaOwKpAA/s640/blogger-image--1037854729.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>We've had a great holiday season full of Santa visits, gingerbread house decorating, a trip to the snow and time with our friends. We are blessed as always with a beautiful life. </div><div><br></div><div>But we have also been dealing with some pressing health issues for me. Let's face it, my body does not want to be ignored. </div><div><br></div><div>The best thing that H is for is our HeRo, and boy does he love that letter too. Always asking us to write it for him. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXXoG7_nuG6GAK67_Oy01VRw_arCoWrmRBPU5wonO8YfF7BK4N02nytkr_Vynt-8BRqGMpKDAo4YWAdhcB5n7EQz3NpcQl2YRpzPEHePtEcEYaYjBI17LJsbY81cBnJvB6laAN86OidILs/s640/blogger-image-1262793113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXXoG7_nuG6GAK67_Oy01VRw_arCoWrmRBPU5wonO8YfF7BK4N02nytkr_Vynt-8BRqGMpKDAo4YWAdhcB5n7EQz3NpcQl2YRpzPEHePtEcEYaYjBI17LJsbY81cBnJvB6laAN86OidILs/s640/blogger-image-1262793113.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>But H has also meant a hernia and hysterectomy for me. The joy. I had the hernia fixed in an outpatient surgery the week of Thanksgiving and all went well. </div><div><br></div><div>I will be having a hysterectomy on January 5, after months (years really) of dealing with fibroids that are growing at an alarming rate and not responding to</div><div>Other treatment. </div><div><br></div><div>I'm nervous to be heading into major surgery again as this will not be a routine hysterectomy. It will be full open. With lots of delicate work to detach my prolapsed uterus from my sacrum all while protecting my Koch pouch. </div><div><br></div><div>I am confident in the surgeons abilities and my awesome colo-rectal surgeon will be assisting. But my past history has proven to be a little wild when it comes to post surgical weirdness so I'm trying to prepare myself for this roller coaster again. Hopefully it will be a smooth and boring ride;)</div><div><br></div><div>Adding to my feelings is the fact that this is my first major surgery since HeRo was born. I know he's only 2 and he will be fine and in the best hands, but the thought of being away from him for 4-7 days and not being able to lift/carry him for 6-8 weeks makes me terribly sad. I love that boy more than I can eve express and he's my best little buddy. And of course my sweet hubs will be pulled in multiple directions. We spend so much time together and I know this will be hard on all of us. </div><div><br></div><div>Im so thankful that my mama will be here for two weeks and for our amazing nanny who is really like family now. Those two are going to make it all so much more bearable. </div><div><br></div><div>I'm looking forward to March when it's all over and behind us. I'll be feeling better and down another useless organ and moving forward. </div><div><br></div><div>It's never a full moment and all of this is just another reminder that chronic illness is forever in all it's ebbs and flows. </div><div><br></div><div>For now I'm going to focus on spending the holidays with my boys and enjoying the magic a toddler brings to it all. </div><div><br></div><div>Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and happy and healthy 2015. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSNLtQX4ThXSf9fPYOOfYA5_Qae8feuHxvI8vq5orILygSXcYWUK4o86N6cgqeRIeupPyunBMUa6FjgwN4Q-fyXcqIja0c88r9jyddsQ_I66DwgJhWOM3Vv6CSr_31at1iOmyrNuumkcco/s640/blogger-image-1808170789.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSNLtQX4ThXSf9fPYOOfYA5_Qae8feuHxvI8vq5orILygSXcYWUK4o86N6cgqeRIeupPyunBMUa6FjgwN4Q-fyXcqIja0c88r9jyddsQ_I66DwgJhWOM3Vv6CSr_31at1iOmyrNuumkcco/s640/blogger-image-1808170789.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-48896164840878906382014-08-15T22:37:00.001-07:002014-08-15T22:37:49.625-07:00August is awesome<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgLcvznn3W1272WgF9rxkmGvV_qfs7ziDyKlUy_3xaxpdc0XVaepEaqkBcu0xwgTkM6deQMNnZTrcOlawO_a3M19cO4sWRULz9N44SHynpKk18nK7j_nwzFLam8CgJUdc-3sYjP3pLolA3/s640/blogger-image-111991549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgLcvznn3W1272WgF9rxkmGvV_qfs7ziDyKlUy_3xaxpdc0XVaepEaqkBcu0xwgTkM6deQMNnZTrcOlawO_a3M19cO4sWRULz9N44SHynpKk18nK7j_nwzFLam8CgJUdc-3sYjP3pLolA3/s640/blogger-image-111991549.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I like August. We start it off celebrating our wedding anniversary and end it with our little HeRo's birthday!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This year the hubs and I have been married for 9 years! Last year in single digits. Woo hoo. Dang I love this guy and every year I love reflecting back on that wonderful day and all we've done and been through together and then looking forward to what may lie ahead. I've said it before, but I'm so proud of us and also continually humbled at how lucky we are to have each other. Our life is not an easy one for a number of reasons, but it is truly beautiful. Love you babe. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAA2922Rz1IC7SfEwd-4fc3S1H4x9NNTOkbXB8KL6Goh0OK1UeFg9hgO0YJmQf8amYeXGCF_07VbGqgH_aQL4nu7yob4rmDSPw9i1V19T-9Z60rqQz9j2HV7_8uNWxau0LgPb8DMNULpUg/s640/blogger-image-526197139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAA2922Rz1IC7SfEwd-4fc3S1H4x9NNTOkbXB8KL6Goh0OK1UeFg9hgO0YJmQf8amYeXGCF_07VbGqgH_aQL4nu7yob4rmDSPw9i1V19T-9Z60rqQz9j2HV7_8uNWxau0LgPb8DMNULpUg/s640/blogger-image-526197139.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">And then there's this guy! How can he be turning 2 already?! He is just too darn cute and spunky and oh so cuddly. It's like we blinked and he is a big boy. Talking (mostly his own language, but very expressively), figuring out the world around him and showing us his personality. It's so great and amazing to be his mama. I know he will understand things in life earlier than others because of my health and the story of how our family came to be. But I hope that it makes him more empathetic and tolerant towards others. He's a love bug, giving bear hugs and kisses. Bad he already has picked up more than we realize. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The other day one of the pads I use to cover my storms fell out of my bag. He picked it up and tried to put it on him self like he sees me doing everyday. Then toddled over and gave it to me. It was heart melting and made me tear up. I know. He doesn't know any different but something in that moment struck me both in a proud and sad way. I suspect this theme will reoccur over and over in our lives. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">As we prepare to celebrate this little man. I can't help but swell with happiness at the joy and gift he is. Happy birthday (early) little man. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">And aside from these two great guys I get to call mine, we've gotten to celebrate a few other people we love to the moon and back this month. It's all been quite lovely really. And always reminds me that although I struggle health wise, my village is as amazing as they come. What more could a girl want? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Happy August!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-3378053934847702832014-07-11T11:15:00.001-07:002014-07-11T11:15:27.934-07:00Best Laid PlansI'm back. Are you surprised? <div><br></div><div>This week has been busy with appointments and general toddler-hood. </div><div><br></div><div>Here's how it went down:</div><div><br></div><div>. Monday. We went to meet Batman with our friends at a locale summer kids event. HeRo was so brave. When it was time for our picture, he kind of sized up Batman, shrugged and then gave him a high five and posed for the pic. </div><div><br></div><div>. Tuesday. I had an abdominal MRI. I was supposed to be there for 3 hours but ended up over 4. First they forgot to bring me my barium yummy ness, until after an hour I went and asked for it. 3 bottles and 45 minutes of choking it down they took me back to the tube. After 20 minutes they pulled me out to go walk for 15 minutes, the barium was stuck in my belly. 20 minutes later I was hooked back up and strapped back down and sent back in. 20 minutes after that I was being pulled back out,again! My bowels were moving so much, I could feel them bouncing like a crazy alien baby was in there. The radiologist had to be called in to give me a shot to relax my bowels so a clear picture could be taken. It worked, yay. Back in for 30 more minutes to get the images. And I could finally leave. I missed another appt but the technician was kind enough to call and cancel for me. The afternoon I had planned went out the window and I went home to deal with nausea and pain the rest of the afternoon. Thank goodness for our awesome nanny!</div><div><br></div><div>. Wednesday. A good day. H has swimming lessons, which after6 months he still cries in anger through because I don't get in with him. We had an impromptu lunch date with our friends. The "I'm almost 2, crazyness sets in and we leave lunch in a hurry. Mommy and HeRo both are ready for nap. </div><div><br></div><div>. Thursday. I have appointments and errands to do from Tuesday. H is with our nanny/his BFF. No nap for mommy today. Too busy. But too many spoons out. Glad the little buddy was happy to play outside before dinner and inside playing around me until daddy got home. </div><div><br></div><div>. Friday. I'm hanging at the infusion center. When I got here they said they had me down for next Friday. I was not happy. I could tell the scheduler was preoccupied when I called last week. I should have double checked. Thankfully someone else cancelled and they fit me in. I didn't have to wait too long either. So although the plan was amiss all turned out. </div><div><br></div><div>Theme of the week, and many weeks, days: being a mommy and a spoonie means that the best laid plans often get ruffled. We just have to go with the flow as best we can. </div>Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-71700473048420871592014-06-13T10:31:00.001-07:002014-06-13T10:31:40.162-07:00Reboot<div><br></div>As usual, some of my loyal and loving peeps, have over the last few weeks gently reminded me about this little space and how it's been a year since I updated. My mom then flat out told me it was time to start writing again, that others find it beneficial and that it's always been good for me mentally. <div><br></div><div>When mama tells me to do something, which isn't often, I listen. So here I am:) </div><div><br></div><div>And I also happen to be at the good old infusion center and I will be coming here once a month, which gives me scheduled time to post. No other excuses. </div><div><br></div><div>I really do have things to say, no shock there. Parenting with a chronic illness, living in a world where people judge what they can't see and the implications for those with invisible illness, tales from my medical trists, and updates on the hubs and our little HeRo of course. </div><div><br></div><div>Still working through where to start. And currently I can only use one finger to type since my IV lkeeps pinching. So I'll just post a few pics and be on my way. I've missed this space, but the farther I got from it the easier it was to say it didn't matter anymore. But I know that's just not true. My soul needs it and maybe you do too. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_KTjl4R4WfGt8euokWsb3ZFjPdnAAsJlA5V_lSlMTxHHrz_Xkhq17DhmSKVAMIaXhhttrABd3C6HSvBeIOBbZGxehbzW-duW12GgwNZsZxdAdiZ_XExFW0ogN0qvsubsWhSz0wgx7SQcn/s640/blogger-image-1486356336.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_KTjl4R4WfGt8euokWsb3ZFjPdnAAsJlA5V_lSlMTxHHrz_Xkhq17DhmSKVAMIaXhhttrABd3C6HSvBeIOBbZGxehbzW-duW12GgwNZsZxdAdiZ_XExFW0ogN0qvsubsWhSz0wgx7SQcn/s640/blogger-image-1486356336.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4C4Xy-QAkedVVAmYHo0vD5sml8dMqypU0LIa2nbY8VDPWDBJLECACeFwF4YiiCmFeeQkmHwRVUzAYV9PYco0Zk1XNv-sx96eRVbpx-mr-scyZ63GpoT4Z_9Ybvxral5IkAVemj_z0wnrA/s640/blogger-image-1674246213.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4C4Xy-QAkedVVAmYHo0vD5sml8dMqypU0LIa2nbY8VDPWDBJLECACeFwF4YiiCmFeeQkmHwRVUzAYV9PYco0Zk1XNv-sx96eRVbpx-mr-scyZ63GpoT4Z_9Ybvxral5IkAVemj_z0wnrA/s640/blogger-image-1674246213.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjPwIRVU_xq_DPSYRfvLfGwO0uvz_0r0dRY3BuBxkW876_-rgDUsU252H1z80qGTh13dA5eFF_RUmrA2eWS4TmAcqAifaT6oaGoWgC9VXKEpu806u0ZIrMUPAoxh_dyLe0vTq5GNN7tHxk/s640/blogger-image--579601113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjPwIRVU_xq_DPSYRfvLfGwO0uvz_0r0dRY3BuBxkW876_-rgDUsU252H1z80qGTh13dA5eFF_RUmrA2eWS4TmAcqAifaT6oaGoWgC9VXKEpu806u0ZIrMUPAoxh_dyLe0vTq5GNN7tHxk/s640/blogger-image--579601113.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeKg-ZWzKsGvA_FIIQ4_OXXrlBR6y90DkvSWq7ttbfS-dpmPRHJhTKSIuWNyothCOWebcONPOmm3fAc8JC5WrWGUkw0irPH_uqI9ElllbgtWzn1xlKkrcNer0oAL1wh8B983PSk7RMyA9E/s640/blogger-image-2110184425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeKg-ZWzKsGvA_FIIQ4_OXXrlBR6y90DkvSWq7ttbfS-dpmPRHJhTKSIuWNyothCOWebcONPOmm3fAc8JC5WrWGUkw0irPH_uqI9ElllbgtWzn1xlKkrcNer0oAL1wh8B983PSk7RMyA9E/s640/blogger-image-2110184425.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br></div><br></div></div>Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-78008625473553980832013-05-29T12:04:00.001-07:002013-05-29T12:04:25.098-07:00Live from the Infusion CenterHere I am, at the infusion center for the third of 3 iron infusions this round. <div><br></div><div>I'm pretty much back to my normal, status quo of tolerable pain and issues, thank goodness. The cdiff seems to be gone, woo hoo. </div><div><br></div><div>My Crohns flare seems to be simmering down too. I do have a distended spot on my belly that we need to watch for possible obstruction, so we'll see how that goes. </div><div><br></div><div>So after today, barring any pipe ups from my body, i don't have to see my GI for three months. Yippee. </div><div><br></div><div>I narrowly avoided the hospital on this last little adventure and I will do all I can to keep it that way. </div><div><br></div><div>As for other news, all is well on the home front. Our little HeRo is 9 months old, crazy! Inch worming around like crazy and making us laugh all the time. </div><div><br></div><div>We are getting ready for a busy summer, so I need to remember to listen to my body and be smart. It's all such a crazy game I'm still trying to master with this little vessel of mine, but I'm doing the best I can. </div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPtLoKcvfdOgMHrAYmfaT38h5h17lXuS1TjpYoGUZdcsxfRKl7eMWJI607rUKDxb2C5mhK9lFq4E3yTi2oauNs2H-hfbMXycuu0l__mLs18Kye6-0W0aVhnSC_zM18pN6CzB1IkDWK5pgx/s640/blogger-image-63672449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPtLoKcvfdOgMHrAYmfaT38h5h17lXuS1TjpYoGUZdcsxfRKl7eMWJI607rUKDxb2C5mhK9lFq4E3yTi2oauNs2H-hfbMXycuu0l__mLs18Kye6-0W0aVhnSC_zM18pN6CzB1IkDWK5pgx/s640/blogger-image-63672449.jpg"></a></div></div>Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-80610508049634505332013-05-15T12:38:00.001-07:002013-05-15T12:38:26.869-07:00Mothers Day 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzrM8XTPyAmHaFjiv8oHcV3dooNGKpiLlzX7mw3Y-VRzUI04hjz2rHpP_wCbEEi8Oq9hCb55VnNHxCJ4JGwIu0sgKhauvMjYEYaNxQvMq9w3Zh1ytfx1mfOOFcYAYqs_BkN3KNakPY8gRA/s640/blogger-image--906607515.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzrM8XTPyAmHaFjiv8oHcV3dooNGKpiLlzX7mw3Y-VRzUI04hjz2rHpP_wCbEEi8Oq9hCb55VnNHxCJ4JGwIu0sgKhauvMjYEYaNxQvMq9w3Zh1ytfx1mfOOFcYAYqs_BkN3KNakPY8gRA/s640/blogger-image--906607515.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">"I did not give you the gift of life, life gave me the gift of you."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Words really can't express how blessed, loved and thankful I felt celebrating Mothers Day for the first time as a mother to the boy who was meant to be our son. I love him and can't believe I get to spend my days with him. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I think a combination of having fought so hard to have my dream of motherhood come true and the beautiful, yet emotional journey of adoption, make me especially thankful for Mother's Day, not as a reason to celebrate me but to celebrate dreams coming true and reflecting on the journey to get to our HeRo. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">And as I do everyday, I felt so loved. The hubs made my day so special. All I wanted to do was spend a low key day with my boys, after all HeRo is the reason I can celebrate this day in a different way now. And although our day was quiet, the hubs found so many ways to make it beautiful. He made, with special touches by our HeRo, the painting above and I was so overwhelmed with the thoughtfulness (and the neatness of his handwriting:)!) i will cherish it forever! I love that man so very much and am so thankful our son gets him as a daddy, he will learn how to be a great man from him. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I was also showered with love by so many people who remembered it was my first Mother's Day. The goodness of people amazes me and reminds me to be better everyday. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We also celebrated Mother's Day with HeRo's birth family this weekend. They are amazing people and his birth mother deserves to be recognized. Because without her selfless sacrifice for her son, I would not be his mommy. I will never take that for granted. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmOBZt91QFYxMXi-WXUfPyqDfKlvvOcBp4zqRuWhh_EbolbDtZJQQX-uYJ_w8HM-jE2xj30t_t4Uih6AMadNwCD4GRASsGcBeEU-FgN1Yru45lfrpFcS9YkxPHvR_3i543DZAoKka3kLA0/s640/blogger-image-1047002266.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmOBZt91QFYxMXi-WXUfPyqDfKlvvOcBp4zqRuWhh_EbolbDtZJQQX-uYJ_w8HM-jE2xj30t_t4Uih6AMadNwCD4GRASsGcBeEU-FgN1Yru45lfrpFcS9YkxPHvR_3i543DZAoKka3kLA0/s640/blogger-image-1047002266.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">"I will never forget that I became a mother through the heartbreak of another."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Open adoption can be hard, but I believe for us, it's the best we can do for our son. And after our dinner, it just felt right and peaceful that we had celebrated two mothers joined together by one very sweet and special boy on this second weekend in May. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It was the best Mothers Day weekend I could have hoped for. It was more than I dreamed it could be as I wrote my Mother's Day posts in years past. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I'm so lucky. I really am. </div></div>Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-91013264059436624182013-05-01T11:32:00.001-07:002013-05-01T11:32:30.814-07:00Time to Dust This Thing OffWell holy cow, it's been exactly six months since I've updated this little ol' space of mine. I've missed it, I really have and I am continually humbled and thankful for the people who gently remind me that they'd love to see some updates here. It makes me feel so loved that people still check in here after all this time. So thank to whoever is out there.<br />
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The last six months have been a whirlwind. Our little HeRo, is now 8 months old and seriously getting cuter by the day. His personality and cuddles and just overall being, make our days go round.<br />
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He's on the verge of crawling and our lives are about to change again, with a mobile infant. Oh boy:) I will say that we have been very blessed with a mild mannered little one and that combined with the pretty great schedule we've got going make things go pretty smoothly.<br />
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Now if only I could say that my body was cooperating with me. But alas it's not. I'm actually typing this from the good old Infusion Center as I wait for my iron infusion. I've been on a bit of a downward the last three weeks or so and went in last week to see my GI. Turns out, Crohn's is flaring, Ferratin levels are extremely low (hence the iron infusion), and we found out just yesterday that I have the dreaded C-diff infection again. Not fun, not good on the pshyce, but as ever just taking one day at a time. Doing the best I can and snuggling my boys, because they are what keep me going.<br />
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There is so much more to say, so many thoughts swirling in my head that have been there for months now. How do I keep up here on my blog that is such a place of therapy for me, when really on most nights after our HeRo is in bed, I just want to have dinner and hang with the hubs.<br />
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How do I work through my guilt of being a "sick" mamma to the sweetest boy on the planet?<br />
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How do I convey how truly happy I am, and still talk about my disfunctional body and not make my life sound bad or that I'm ungrateful?<br />
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Because here's the thing, even though living in this body is hard on a good day and downright ridiculous in times like I'm having now, I have a wonderful, blessed and happy life. The hubs and I thank our lucky stars everyday for our HeRo. And HeRo or not, my body would be doing what it's doing. And let me tell you, he makes the best distraction when I'm down and hurting and all those years of not having him, make me certain we were all meant to be together.<br />
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I won't overpromise on posts, but I will say that getting back in the swing of things. Clearing of the dust and writing is a big goal of mine. It's good for me and if it helps just one other person well then that's a cherry on the top. So we'll see how it goes. I have two more infusions this month, so that gives me good writing time.<span id="goog_587829364"></span><span id="goog_587829365"></span><br />
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Consider the blog Spring Cleaned!<br />
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And now what you really want, pics of the cutest boy in the world;)<br />
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Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-16777969185633993102012-11-06T14:31:00.001-08:002012-11-06T14:44:58.711-08:00Weird Encounters of the Rude Kind<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(This picture has nothing to do with this post. It's stinkin hot down here, but that means that HeRo got to wear his World Champion, SF Giants gear today that his uncle J sent him! SoCal boy or not, he'll know which team he must root for in this family.)</span></div>
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Anywho, to the point of this post. I have had a lot of people, mostly just in innocent curiosity, look at me and then look at HeRo and then sometimes ask how old he is and then comment on how great I look. Obviously they are confused about how I can be so thin with such a newborn in tow. For the most part I understand these people are just being curious and they have all been kind about it and I either smile and nod and say thank you or politely explain that he is ours but we adopted him, until today. </div>
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HeRo and I went to the polling place <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">(whichever way you are voting and for whomever, I hope you went out and voted) </span>and encountered a very shocking conversation. </div>
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Polling Place Lady: "That is NOT your baby!"</div>
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Me: "Well yes he is."</div>
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PP Lady: "NO you are WAY too skinny to have that baby."</div>
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Me (shocked and caught off guard: "Oh thanks, he's adopted."</div>
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PP Lady: "Oh so you cheated."</div>
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Me: "Yes that's exactly what I did. Um can I have my ballot please."</div>
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There was no hello from this woman and I didn't even know she could see HeRo, he was in his car seat that I set on the floor and she was behind the table. Also, let me just state the tone of this was just brazen and rude, not shock and awe like "oh dang girl you look good no way you can have a baby that small, you go."</div>
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Honestly I'm just so shocked, not hurt or did I even take it personally. I do wish I hadn't felt the need to explain that he was adopted, it was none of her business and clearly she's also misguided on the adoption process if she finds it to be cheating. I should have said, "Oh shoot you are right I don't have a baby, picked this one up outside."</div>
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I get that people have no filter, that they can be naive and down right stupid. And I also know this woman probably wasn't intending to be as rude as she was, she just doesn't get it and that's ok. But this is just another reminder to me that you should not judge a book by it's cover. You don't know what people have gone through and just because they look good to you on the outside doesn't mean they've had it easy. And to assume that adoption is the easy way out of not having to get "fat" being pregnant is laughable. </div>
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Just another day in the life over here. I know we'll encounter comments from ignorant people forever and I also know we won't have to hear it near as much as interracial families or white families who adopt children of other races or vice versa. </div>
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But come on people, it's all about how you phrase things. If you have a question that's fine, but think before you speak or if you just don't have anything nice to say, remember what Thumper's mommy taught him in Bambi, "don't say anything at all!"</div>
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Happy Voting Day!</div>
Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-2739759475260725592012-11-01T09:05:00.001-07:002012-11-01T09:05:43.993-07:00Happy Halloween<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We celebrated HeRo's first Halloween last night! My boys dressed up as Carl and Russell (the old man and boy scout) from Up, the Pixar movie. They looked adorable.</div>
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HeRo got to do some Trick or Treating with is best gal pals, Sleeping Beauty and the Geisha. Unfortunately no picture of the three of them.</div>
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Enjoy the pics we do have. </div>
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<br />Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-61563486830797111992012-10-28T08:40:00.000-07:002012-11-01T09:00:26.519-07:00HeRo - 2 Months<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our sweet boy is already 2 months old. How did that happen. We honestly marvel everyday at how much bigger he is, so much more baby than blobby newborn. </div>
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At 2 Months Old HeRo is:</div>
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<li style="text-align: center;">Smiling at us like crazy. Big old open mouth smiles that melt your heart.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Cooing and carrying on "conversations" all the time.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Has the most expressive facial expressions.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Still has early morning gas troubles. Eats 8-9, just over 3oz bottles a day.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Loves music and bouncing</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Sleeping in his crib like a champ. He still wakes every 3-4 hours but getting better all the time. He goes down around 9:30 a.m. and finally wakes for the day around 9 a.m.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Takes 3-4 cat naps (30-45 minutes) a day, and one longer 1-1.5 hour nap at some point. We are slowly working to a more consistent schedule based on what his little body is telling us.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Run errands with mama like a total champ.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Is very alert, always has been, but he looks around at everything.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Has a VERY strong neck and does ok with Tummy Time.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Likes his bath time with daddy.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Had his first Halloween.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Is finally growing out of most of his newborn clothes and is starting to mostly fill out 0-3 months. He wears size 1 diapers.</li>
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We have our 2 month doctor check-up on Friday so we'll see the stats and just how much this little chunker weighs;)</div>
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And here's a comparison pic (sorry it's so small) from month 1 to 2. I love this little cutie pie so much.Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-608699658168462112012-10-26T09:56:00.000-07:002012-10-26T09:56:00.347-07:00Pumpkin Patch x2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As new parents, we of course are into all the "firsts" and a trip (or two) to the pumpkin patch is no different. </div>
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We have a very open adoption with HeRo's birth mother and sister (I know I need to do a big blog post on that.) Our recent visit two weeks ago, was HeRo's first pumpkin patch and it was such a great day, hotter than two bowls of soup, but nice. We've found that for now, meeting and doing an activity is a great way to continue to get to know each other in this new, very different but beautiful relationship.</div>
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Then this past weekend, we went to our local pumpkin patch with our dearest friends. I have to say that seeing all the kids together, ours being one of them, really made my heart so happy. I can't wait for many pumpkin patch pictures in the year's to come. HeRo is going to be surrounded by a lot of older girls doting on him, somehow I don't think he'll mind;)</div>
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I love fall and this year it's proving to be that much more magical -- even if it's been disgustingly HOT in So Cal.</div>
Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-18087954172248664722012-10-24T09:26:00.000-07:002012-10-24T09:26:00.817-07:00How Am I Doing...Really?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I realize my lack of consistent posting may have lost some of the readers who came here regularly for IBD support or information. I'm ok with that as I know I just haven't been able to provide that lately and people move on.<br />
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So I'll keep writing what I can, when I can and if people still read great, if not it's at least a journal of these times in our life.<br />
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So with that, what's going on with me, health wise? How's my body holding up with the BIG changes around here?<br />
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Two weeks after HeRo was born, I had my regular GI appt. I knew this would be the appt where we added methotrexate as I could tell that I was still not having a full response to Humira, even with once a week injections. So I was prepared and willing, especially with increased motivation to feel as well as possible. She agreed that at 6 months in and only a partial response, we needed to add in the the next step. I was hoping it would be a pill, but because of my lack of full intestines and absorption issues, I have to do injections.<br />
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Six weeks ago I started the meth and let me tell you, that injection is so easy. It's the smallest needle ever and I can't even feel it going in. It's a walk in the park compared to Humira. Doing the injections is supposed to help reduce side effects and I think it has. I just have the typical post injection headache, but it seems to last. The GI said it could be 2-3 months to see results and that the combo would potentially first and foremost help my arthritis.<br />
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Speaking of arthritis, it's my hip that has taken the biggest beating with the addition of HeRo in our lives. It hurts, I'm not even going to sugar coat it and now I just take a pain pill each morning to help cut the edge off and that helps. My Crohn's seems to be manageable but in the very wee early mornings, same time HeRo's gas is really bothering him, my intestines are also going cray. Don't know if it's the lack of extended stretches of sleep (although I will say we are so lucky, HeRo does wake every 2-3.5 hours at night, but he eats, gets a diaper change and is back sleeping in 25 minutes so we aren't up long.) And my hubby man does the 5/6a.m. feeding so I can keep on sleeping in the am.<br />
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So we shall see, my body is my body. It's holding on, but it's frustrating and hard to accept. Again I know all new moms suffer from extreme exhaustion, mental fatigue, etc add to that a body that simply does not recover well or have the stamina built up, so it can be a double whammy.<br />
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I am so happy and really everything about motherhood and my body is exactly what I was prepared for, which I know helps tremendously. And this may be cheesy, but I'm SO serious, looking at that sweet boy's face really makes it all worth it and I mean ALL of it -- the years of waiting, sadness, pain, etc. He is meant for us and we for him and so I will power on. My vow is to take good care of myself, so I can take the best care of him. We will be getting some help a few days a week so I can rest and I'm ok with that, because I know it's what will help make me the most available mother I can be.<br />
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Being well has always been a priority for me, whatever that means for me personally. And now it's taken a whole new meaning.Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-47837853950604844702012-10-22T09:25:00.001-07:002012-10-22T09:25:12.951-07:00The Pooping Chair<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Only in our house would a seemingly regular bouncy chair, come to be known as the Pooping Chair. You see, our little HeRo has quite a tough time in the mornings getting rid of his gas. It breaks this mama's heart mostly because I know how BAD trapped gas is and I just cry when I can tell he's in so much pain. We had unpacked the bouncy chair a few weeks ago after we received it from our dear friends (thanks B&C) and the babe loved it right away. But it wasn't until last week when the real magic of the chair showed itself. After a particularly rough morning for the little digestive system, I put him in the chair to see if it would distract him and that it did. It vibrated and jiggled a big ole poop right out of him, hooray! I thought it was just a fluke but it happened then next few mornings in a row and I knew we were on to something. One day the pooping chair worked it's magic three times!</div>
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Now I know all new mamas and daddy's are obsessed with the state of their new baby's diapers. But I think I may be just a little more into it, you can imagine why. But when my baby finally has that big explosion, it makes me so happy and relieved. Gross maybe, but what would this blog be without the poop talk. Now if only I could fashion an adult poop chair hooked to my kpouch when I just can't get the gas out, hmmm.</div>
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Enjoy some pics of the magical chair...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5OcrXlq3RmPfhOhV3asUau0NAneBbaa-ZfOKByrWOr1_nhloavOZ3rSHnusIcTsqofpSAD4ASj7Qmf_i_M0dhCFKnNqg6L94m1MjTArqVcgcQzf0lStVf6eMTzr6mKrtyhizJdDVXW-A7/s1600/IMG_2326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5OcrXlq3RmPfhOhV3asUau0NAneBbaa-ZfOKByrWOr1_nhloavOZ3rSHnusIcTsqofpSAD4ASj7Qmf_i_M0dhCFKnNqg6L94m1MjTArqVcgcQzf0lStVf6eMTzr6mKrtyhizJdDVXW-A7/s320/IMG_2326.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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I'm in my "office", do you need something lady?!</div>
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Just relaxing and letting "it" happen.</div>
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This chair is magic.</div>
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It's productive and entertaining!</div>
Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-41079762070983220092012-10-10T17:09:00.001-07:002012-10-10T17:09:09.297-07:00One Month, Two Weeks Late<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our little HeRo baby turned one month old on Friday, September 28 (which means by now he's six weeks old and I'm very, very late.) We honestly can't believe how fast the time is going by. I know it's so cliche but it's back to that time thing I've talked about so much over the years on this blog. It's so strange how in the blink of an eye 4 or 6 weeks goes by. Here are some pics from our amateur photo shoot that day.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7x4KuvwjhBo3-VqwOSUdSIq5c4lZgt2AWoHBeyCpWS-X5OAs7uM43oF6qbGnUoxPup0Z92W1mM0C3UgUbdVA5xGZ91t1iCOXZBgnhuIOoWjrjsHZww-MGk0dZ_Ogsszbi8qiJ5jmTYTgq/s1600/IMG_2205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7x4KuvwjhBo3-VqwOSUdSIq5c4lZgt2AWoHBeyCpWS-X5OAs7uM43oF6qbGnUoxPup0Z92W1mM0C3UgUbdVA5xGZ91t1iCOXZBgnhuIOoWjrjsHZww-MGk0dZ_Ogsszbi8qiJ5jmTYTgq/s320/IMG_2205.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">disclaimer: We DO keep a close eye on the pets. The cats have not jumped on the baby or in any of his sleeping places. We DO understand the need to be ultra aware of this. So far this cat just likes to be near him, very protective, and the other one has no interest. </span></div>
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Holla, I'm one month.</div>
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He's so tolerant of us:)</div>
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Me and my boys.</div>
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**I had plans for a long post today. But I took a nap when the baby did and now I'm typing this one handed because somebody just needs to be held, and I'm happy to oblige. I've gotten very skilled at doing things with one hand;)</div>
Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-3842455811973248272012-09-21T15:42:00.002-07:002012-09-21T15:42:17.114-07:00I'm Sorry<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm sorry, I can't really blog about all the goings on around here because I just can't stop staring at this face...</div>
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I know it's a bit of a cop-out post, with no information at all, but can you blame me? We are doing very well around here, loving our new roles and just still feeling so overwhelmed by the blessings in our life. I'll get motivated to write more soon, I promise.Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-60059661987581054512012-09-01T17:28:00.003-07:002012-09-01T17:28:43.909-07:00Introducing Our True Miracle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've been keeping something very close to my heart for the last three months. Back in May we met the most amazing birth parents and were matched to adopt their baby boy. We spent the last three months getting to know each other and growing our bond as a new, very different kind of family.</div>
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And this past Tuesday, August 28th our miracle, the long awaited dream, entered this world.</div>
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So with so much joy and thankfulness in our hearts, the hubs and I are proud to announce the arrival of our son, a little HeRo (the first two letters of his first and middle name, and what I'll be calling him here on the blog).</div>
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8-28-12 * 5lbs 15oz * 18.5 inches</div>
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He's more than we ever could have dreamed of. Thank you to all of you who have supported us and prayed for us. If you have extra prayers, please pray for our birth family, they are absolutely amazing and selfless and they could use some extra love right now.</div>
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I'll be back with more details later. I'm going to snuggle my boy now. Enjoy a few pics.</div>
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<br />Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-32215927857834903482012-08-25T10:03:00.000-07:002012-08-25T10:03:00.998-07:00Pictures Say It All<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Last week was spent at our very favorite place. We soaked in the sun, the relaxation and the peacefulness. After a long couple weeks before, it was the perfect timing for us and just what we needed. Plus now we both have a healthy glow (tan) which goes a long way. No need to explain, the pictures (at least to us) show the beauty of our Happiest Place on Earth.</div>
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<br />Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-27785697212848068302012-08-23T11:24:00.001-07:002012-08-23T11:25:04.979-07:00Before and Afters<div style="text-align: center;">
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Well now that we are back from the wedding and our vaca, I'm finally getting around to posting some kitchen pics. I'm going to try to do this in order, but blogger and pictures sometimes make me want to pull my hair out, so bear with me.<br />
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Aside from just a few more cosmetic things -- knobs, moulding and paint touch up -- we are fully functioning and loving every single thing about it. So many things make me want to cry with excitement about what we've accomplished and how it looks. If you've been here, it honestly doesn't even seem like the same place.<br />
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We were able to remove that small, weird half wall on the side of the old microwave to open up the space all the way to our back door. Look at all that usable counter space. </div>
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First please note the hideous linoleum we had in the pic on the left, and take a moment to breathe in those hardwood floors on the right. To maximize space and use what we had better, we shifted the fridge to the back wall and extended our cabinets and counter space. Plus moving the microwave over the stove also was a better use of our small space.</div>
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Even the laundry area looks better with just clean white paint and the new floors. And yes that's extra TP in the pic on the right, you know whose blog you are reading, right?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja2TJTFPMN0Z5Afv2GdpFZJc0-o_0g_FQ9nySsNxDTfiuSDUXpCTLIa2OzxaOJG2X_Hx-WErbR8II8exmlo9FHbjgQ-tu_yUcl2Ve3TIuIjbEAKsvMh59_OdqK4pn5-FMntU9V0f1WVW-x/s1600/IMG_1798.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja2TJTFPMN0Z5Afv2GdpFZJc0-o_0g_FQ9nySsNxDTfiuSDUXpCTLIa2OzxaOJG2X_Hx-WErbR8II8exmlo9FHbjgQ-tu_yUcl2Ve3TIuIjbEAKsvMh59_OdqK4pn5-FMntU9V0f1WVW-x/s320/IMG_1798.jpg" width="239" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ueznwummqgYD4qLzS8J3RIz8k54Qv5-hLjwaqnpK1Ok-0IBvesSPNJ3-_ENYf4-Gt53dBSAgxzYgOAxRtopXBPIPcMPk612qRvMXsJANpYEvvABbJ7M0b3uboUU2H6P-rz6Q9flIKlWX/s1600/new+sink+and+dishwasher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ueznwummqgYD4qLzS8J3RIz8k54Qv5-hLjwaqnpK1Ok-0IBvesSPNJ3-_ENYf4-Gt53dBSAgxzYgOAxRtopXBPIPcMPk612qRvMXsJANpYEvvABbJ7M0b3uboUU2H6P-rz6Q9flIKlWX/s320/new+sink+and+dishwasher.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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And of course probably my favorite functional item, my new BFF, the dishwasher. I mean people, life has already gotten so much easier. I love it, I love how quiet it is, and I love that I now longer ration dishes because it just doesn't matter, I'm not washing them. </div>
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Overall, we had a really good experience with this renovation. It was a lot of blood and sweat and a few tears, but so worth it. We wouldn't have been able to do it at all, let alone in the crazy timeline we had without some very wonderful family members and dear friends. Thanks you guys for making this happen. And I am just so proud of my hubs who worked so hard, most days going to his day job and then coming home to work on this back breaking project. It turned out better than we imagined. We are so happy.</div>
Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-89848501010249430672012-08-06T09:59:00.000-07:002012-08-06T09:59:24.357-07:00My Favorite Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Lj1VaI7BNqJr8L1gWByxfItG6DWgOG3uA68StafhXqOVGp6H7mkqBYeJstt-2GOtemNMwL9hhMq3BCaDCk_8OAcod-LQ87G9YqW92VyUufYllopjveJRxY8ZbzWswOOjLG078CNaTCLb/s1600/0396.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Lj1VaI7BNqJr8L1gWByxfItG6DWgOG3uA68StafhXqOVGp6H7mkqBYeJstt-2GOtemNMwL9hhMq3BCaDCk_8OAcod-LQ87G9YqW92VyUufYllopjveJRxY8ZbzWswOOjLG078CNaTCLb/s320/0396.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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Today, is my favorite day of the year, our wedding anniversary. Today, we celebrate seven years of true wedded bliss. Today (and everyday), I'm reminded of just how very lucky I am to be married to the very best man for me. Today, I remember the vows we made on that Saturday, seven years ago, and I smile at the work we've put into this marriage, how close we've remained, how our love has continued to grow and our strength multiplied time and time again.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8dPsF8q_rV3ZQAjRIJuok3aaA4YFgi547OwwfHAXE3XZNSynk8NqSH9T3-QTzXruDnSDgFEW9Y6nnTaZk86ZFsbfrcbaD73a66N_wvkkss5K6ROO3FRjY7CrdfGxOnQ7XjjrFEjIuB1IT/s1600/Marriage+quote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8dPsF8q_rV3ZQAjRIJuok3aaA4YFgi547OwwfHAXE3XZNSynk8NqSH9T3-QTzXruDnSDgFEW9Y6nnTaZk86ZFsbfrcbaD73a66N_wvkkss5K6ROO3FRjY7CrdfGxOnQ7XjjrFEjIuB1IT/s1600/Marriage+quote.jpg" /></a></div>
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We've been tested with the mundane of everyday life, but also with some of life's biggest challenges and through it we have communicated, bonded and intensified our deep commitment to each other. I'm so thankful to be married to my very best friend.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_mHc6uEzPNy_qyOS5NMr3jEJbNtLnaNdKqKXu59NhV5Ac-rIfeTge-iqoy5aY8RoN6YJPj_-OjhAMIDY5Y48QRVXzToBnH5l0Rk7K4su9FO4gwUZmu13xdOIc8Q1uJ01eQenWT8qQhBcQ/s1600/sparkler+pic.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_mHc6uEzPNy_qyOS5NMr3jEJbNtLnaNdKqKXu59NhV5Ac-rIfeTge-iqoy5aY8RoN6YJPj_-OjhAMIDY5Y48QRVXzToBnH5l0Rk7K4su9FO4gwUZmu13xdOIc8Q1uJ01eQenWT8qQhBcQ/s1600/sparkler+pic.jpeg" /></a></div>
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I love this man, who I've known since he was just a boy, so very very much.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOBQEQ2zxsCTr-5LAQxsZ5SiQhyasm3yKgQ68KuKphZ6ruRJhqYPMeBKt1PMinebjhgdAb8OwZGAuwW_z-9cm9tGUcs3pbCeuIscNjlWjpXgMGgtYwYXCP5-fZ4f76i5yy5KXtUCcvyaHW/s1600/Love+quote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOBQEQ2zxsCTr-5LAQxsZ5SiQhyasm3yKgQ68KuKphZ6ruRJhqYPMeBKt1PMinebjhgdAb8OwZGAuwW_z-9cm9tGUcs3pbCeuIscNjlWjpXgMGgtYwYXCP5-fZ4f76i5yy5KXtUCcvyaHW/s320/Love+quote.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>
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I can't wait to see what year eight has in store for us, I have a feeling it will be the best one yet. </div>
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Happy Anniversary Babe. I can't believe we've been married seven years, CRAZY!</div>
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Check out the <a href="http://thechroniclesofcrap.blogspot.com/2011/08/six-on-sixth.html" target="_blank">6th</a>, <a href="http://thechroniclesofcrap.blogspot.com/2010/08/8610.html" target="_blank">5th</a>, and <a href="http://thechroniclesofcrap.blogspot.com/2009/08/wuv-twue-wuv.html" target="_blank">4th</a> anniversary posts if you want more of the lovey dovey;)</div>Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-16583575325526492092012-08-01T16:19:00.004-07:002012-08-01T16:19:50.326-07:00BulletsIt's busy around here. So here's a quick bullet pointed update:)<br />
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<ul>
<li>The kitchen is coming along really nicely. All the flooring, cabinets, and countertops (with undermount sink) are installed. I love it so much already. We should have the actual sink and disposal along with my new BFF, the dishwasher, hooked up tonight. Hooray.</li>
<li>I couldn't do Humira last night, because I realized the sinus pressure I was having quickly moved into sinus infection category last night. I just got back from the dr with a confirmation -- apparently both nasal passages are almost swollen shut and the left is full of puss -- yeah! I start antibiotics now with a nasal spray to hopefully prevent the ear infection that is threatening. I'll just be happy to have this headache ease up and be back to Humira. Here's hoping my little GI tract doesn't take this as an invitation to go crazy.</li>
<li>And because going to the dr is never dull for me. I was telling my PCP, Dr A, that I was having a weird pain in my left arm. He had me straighten my arm rotate it so thumb was down and then he pushed on it. I said ouch, and he said you have rotator cuff tendonitis. Excuse me what?! I don't do anything strenuous, must be a sympathy injury for all the Olympics I'm watching.</li>
<li>Speaking of Olympics, I'm obsessed. I do like to hear the spoilers before hand though, makes the anxiety a little less and the viewing more enjoyable for me. </li>
<li>I can't believe it's August. So many exciting things happening for us this month -- finish the kitchen, our 7th wedding anniversary on Monday, hub's little brother's wedding next weekend, trip to the lake and much more. Yeah for August.</li>
<li>Did I mention I'll have a dishwasher soon:) I bought my first dishwashing soap yesterday and it made me happy.</li>
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That's it for now. Be back soon with before and afters...</div>Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-28341475226846046022012-07-23T10:30:00.002-07:002012-07-23T10:30:27.063-07:00Consuming<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thank you to my very faithful blog readers, some of you who have checked in on me since I've been MIA the last few weeks. So sorry to worry you, but I've been consumed with a very big house project. For the last month I've been in kitchen remodel land -- layout, cabinet choices, counter tops, flooring, appliances, sinks, faucets, paint and tile just to name the major decisions. It's been fun, but stressful (good stress of course) and very involved. We actually started the demo this past Saturday and have the entire contents of our kitchen, including our refrigerator in our dining area. </div>
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The hubs and some very kind family and friends are doing all the demo and installation, which adds to the stress of the project, but makes it possible by saving us on labor costs. They'll just get lots of praise and food. We are lucky to have such skilled and willing people to help us.</div>
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Here are a few pics of our life over the past weeks. I'll post before and afters when it's all done and beautiful. I can't wait. Plus my dream of a dishwasher is finally coming true, I could cry I'm so excited.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn6XLEYzekSyipdEp4xo6e4pRr7mO5Cyp9Jx3WAO-bAECqhG1fdz1cqABP1eAJwayOcQdZxqtd_yFwXqmWwxqs6O09D1BXTmXybganfuUWxA28XMG-Mitswzs8V14g72GnfPgv9lk8vmwb/s1600/GetAttachment-4.aspx.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn6XLEYzekSyipdEp4xo6e4pRr7mO5Cyp9Jx3WAO-bAECqhG1fdz1cqABP1eAJwayOcQdZxqtd_yFwXqmWwxqs6O09D1BXTmXybganfuUWxA28XMG-Mitswzs8V14g72GnfPgv9lk8vmwb/s1600/GetAttachment-4.aspx.jpeg" /></a></div>
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The final layout, we are doubling our cabinet and counter top space.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaTV1_n6G9lCuL4GKHRJ5Ivd8cgPEiXXIgDkQkxymAIIYbGlVCuNFZn_7_ppbAEP8gr5qOCP2M4QNzu4JugJ7srjgG6BjROZLugKqN6sbYWiaTrvWcChHAstG8PCDFd7tl8RGmaO1wvRdS/s1600/GetAttachment-3.aspx.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaTV1_n6G9lCuL4GKHRJ5Ivd8cgPEiXXIgDkQkxymAIIYbGlVCuNFZn_7_ppbAEP8gr5qOCP2M4QNzu4JugJ7srjgG6BjROZLugKqN6sbYWiaTrvWcChHAstG8PCDFd7tl8RGmaO1wvRdS/s1600/GetAttachment-3.aspx.jpeg" /></a></div>
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I know this is sideways, but I'm lazy so maybe turn your head? Here the flooring we picked up, too bad we realized yesterday it wasn't the right kind and had to go back and get the correct stuff. Oh well, adventures in remodeling.</div>
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I got to go to the countertop slab yard and pick out our actual piece of counter top. It was so cool, I felt so HGTVish. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYbdmUgN_eB_2t1YIU4Pb8mjtW8uqmN2KAmaBzHsxmuV3j8_pdCOb6smjvpZKexSUpWIr2-r7FP2V9TO9aUbXif7GATshT95Cmexad6MSekc2SKANs9xdqpIqEg3T4R8g2CeKp17sPan6C/s1600/GetAttachment.aspx.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYbdmUgN_eB_2t1YIU4Pb8mjtW8uqmN2KAmaBzHsxmuV3j8_pdCOb6smjvpZKexSUpWIr2-r7FP2V9TO9aUbXif7GATshT95Cmexad6MSekc2SKANs9xdqpIqEg3T4R8g2CeKp17sPan6C/s1600/GetAttachment.aspx.jpeg" /></a></div>
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Again, sideways, sorry. I did just a little bit of demo and I loved it. Unfortunately the boys had to do all the back breaking work.</div>
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Big hammer, little hammer. Team Chronicles of Crap ready for the chaos that will bring such awesomeness. </div>Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-35170888612324102952012-07-04T09:20:00.000-07:002012-07-04T09:20:05.552-07:00MisFiredThis is a story of a girl who told a lie last week and how it came back to stab her in the leg...<br />
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You see this girl was told by her GI last week that the day had come where she would need to inject her poisonous venom once a week rather than every two weeks. The problem was that it may take the evil insurance wardens too long to approve this new dose, and the girl only had one injection in her stock pile.<br />
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The GI suggested that the girl call the wardens and tell a small white lie to get one replacement poison while the the paperwork was submitted, which would buy two weeks time. So the girl did, she called and said that she had accidentally misfired one of her pens.<br />
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Warden (actually a very nice person): "Well Miss can you explain to us exactly how this happened?"<br />
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Me: "Um well you see, I just wasn't paying attention and I was holding the pen with my finger on the plum discharge button and I accidentally hit it before I was ready."<br />
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Warden: "Oh I see and did the medicine (poison) just squirt all over."<br />
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Me: "Yes, yes it did it all just happened so fast and it was everywhere. I'm so embarrassed."<br />
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Warden: "Ok well we'll send you one replacement pen just this once. And now we are going to need to go over the safety procedures again with you over the phone."<br />
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Me (sweating from lying): "I understand."<br />
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With a sigh of relief, the girl who isn't so good at lying, felt like she had done it. Made up the story with squirting meds and all. The replacement dose came in time and low and behold so did the approval of the new weekly dosage. There were now six doses in the stock pile and all was right with the world.<br />
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Until last night. It was weekly pain infliction time. The numbing, area prep, pain meds process had taken place. The girl took the two caps off and had her finger on the plum button. Her knight in shining armor was there to breath and count with her and somehow, while the pen was pushed into the girl's leg but without being totally ready the girl pushed the button on accident, pulled the needle up and the medicine (poison) started squirting everywhere. Wide eyed, the girl and the knight were in shock. The girl started crying and the knight jumped to the rescue to soothe the frayed nerves of the girl and clean up the poison that was now all over the floor, the outside of the girl's leg and the trash can.<br />
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A whole poison pen wasted, another one had to be removed and settled at room temp before usage, an embarrassed girl and a freaked out knight. That my friends is why this girl should not tell a lie, with a made up story and all.Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-19215781736853997992012-06-27T11:21:00.000-07:002012-06-27T19:55:05.425-07:00Al's Crohn's Related Roundup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLTFY_dSos_kRoxvObnOuauO-KOci6yeA-nf7cex_NGHYBoFiodeQ9qjhtv-Jnncb4BP6Cwu0ZjnNANVFUylAxPY63J_JeT-wpXNsX35BVF88lCuc955ICYcxJ_U-r_4Z5a2wVPY70RXc0/s1600/Take+Steps+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLTFY_dSos_kRoxvObnOuauO-KOci6yeA-nf7cex_NGHYBoFiodeQ9qjhtv-Jnncb4BP6Cwu0ZjnNANVFUylAxPY63J_JeT-wpXNsX35BVF88lCuc955ICYcxJ_U-r_4Z5a2wVPY70RXc0/s320/Take+Steps+2012.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Take Steps 2012</span></div>
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I think it's time for a recap of whats going on with me and my crap -- anecdotally, events wise and medically. So here you go.<br />
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<ol>
<li>Our CCFA Take Steps walk this past Sunday was a success. Our team, the Poo Crew, has raised nearly $12K and counting (donations are accepted through September) and I personally have raised just short of $1500. Over the past three years our team has raised over $30K and when I think of that my heart swells with pride. We are making a difference, a group of used-to-be strangers, who've come together to fight against diseases who threaten to overtake us every day. Take that Crohn's and colitis.</li>
<li>As of yesterday, I am now inflicting harm via injection of Humira once a week. I saw both my GI and my rheumy for regular followups and both agree that since I'm seeing a slight improvement on days 2-7 and then back downhill day 8-14, upping my dose to weekly is the next step to trying to get this to really make some progress. I'm praying this helps, because as much as I hate the injection, I want it to work so bad and I will do whatever it takes. Especially since the last week has been a little rougher, I can feel the deep within starts of something ominous and I just do NOT have time for that this summer. So weekly injections it is!</li>
<li>I was talking to our insurance provider (home owner, car, life) reviewing policies and he asked why hubs has a life insurance policy and I do not -- we had a different agent when hubby got his policy. I explained just simply that I have a number of autoimmune diseases, but didn't say which ones, which prevent me from even getting a small policy. He went on to say that except for diabetes and heart disease, he didn't think it was a problem to try for a policy, oh accept for Crohn's disease too. This is where I laughed and said, "ding ding that's what I have." He just said, "Oh" and we moved on.</li>
<li>I've been attempting to regularly attend "therapeutic yoga" at our local studio. The description of the class is for those with limitations, that's me:) So anyway, while there the other day we were laying on our backs and were hugging our knees in. The teacher says, now feel your ascending colon being massaged (ok I know sounds crazy, but go with it) and in my head again I'm laughing because if I could feel my ascending colon that would be a miracle since it's in a medical wasteland somewhere;) </li>
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I guess the moral of this post is, IBD pops up in my world so randomly but regularly, a reminder of just how forever this disease is. But thankfully I can laugh about it, spread awareness about it and accept my reality knowing that I can choose joy in my life's situation and I am happy. </div>Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-71392905900274920462012-06-24T10:53:00.002-07:002012-06-24T10:53:38.309-07:00A Visual Representation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEzIb6B8XEusI83-n-cJIGQgqqVZXaSh-Ac7b0wTjTBnI9vHSiZXOBDM_349r5tGm6LCmP_c5lOJNMDawXSWzZ2nwiqQ9-QhllOuZkrvHgljJaNfQgdUD7S4vgyW7GArml33Ng4jvOcAbY/s1600/554673_10150920612494825_461738193_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEzIb6B8XEusI83-n-cJIGQgqqVZXaSh-Ac7b0wTjTBnI9vHSiZXOBDM_349r5tGm6LCmP_c5lOJNMDawXSWzZ2nwiqQ9-QhllOuZkrvHgljJaNfQgdUD7S4vgyW7GArml33Ng4jvOcAbY/s320/554673_10150920612494825_461738193_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I honestly can't stop laughing at this picture, probably because it's the most simple explanation of me vs. a "normal" person. LOVE it.<br />
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Hope you get a good giggle out of it.<br />
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Tonight, we will be walking to for a cure so hopefully someday, pictures like this will just cause confusion not laughs of understanding. If you want to help in that fight, click <a href="http://online.ccfa.org/site/TR?px=1424763&fr_id=3109&pg=personal" target="_blank">here</a>.Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-273840815648727721.post-83839063179115793872012-06-19T10:57:00.001-07:002012-06-19T10:59:50.379-07:00A Need For A Cure<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://online.ccfa.org/site/TR?px=1424763&fr_id=3109&pg=personal" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0IcIWc0SdZti52Ti1zPx0SX7ymr-8p0Ub3pZbn7_i3bp9VNsFVZ0Vd2Qzo-Lz7Js8eA7K68LNRxN9xEonQYWaAdGPicsE9q8qTUqm9IULFFDqCxRsr-edLygSoeHfMmzKYblJSnu7KUem/s320/IMG_0578.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(click the pic to visit my Poo Crew page)</span></div>
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Last night as I sat mentally gearing myself up for my Humira injection, as it tends to do at random moments, it hit me again just how important finding a cure for Inflammatory Bowel Disease really is. It's become second nature to me to live in this dysfunctional body, only really getting me down mentally here and there (especially when I have in inflict pain on myself!)<br />
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But something that I never can accept is the new people being diagnosed and living through this hell every single day. Now that makes me mad. And because of that, I will not stop volunteering, raising awareness and vital funds for the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America.<br />
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CCFA is dedicated to finding a cure for IBD, but until that day, they are also completely focused on patient programs of support, education and empowerment. Every day those of us involved in CCFA are focused on reaching the 1.4 million Americans who suffer, in one way or another.<br />
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This Sunday, I will be walking again in the Take Steps for Crohn's and Colitis with my team The Poo Crew. It is a wonderful and inspiring event that I'm proud to be a part of. Our team has a goal of raising $10,000 this year and we are just over 80% of the way there.<br />
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If you would like to support us again in this journey, please click <a href="http://online.ccfa.org/site/TR?px=1424763&fr_id=3109&pg=personal" target="_blank">here</a>. So many of you who read this blog faithfully, have continued to support the hubs and I in so many ways over the past five years and it continues to amaze us. Thank you just isn't enough.<br />
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You all help us continue to Take Steps to flushing IBD down the toilet by reading this blog, spreading awareness and helping to fund research for a cure.Alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07169383967526776336noreply@blogger.com0