Brody rolled over on Friday and again today. He can do it when he is very mad.
Gracie made a new squeak and she startled herself. So funny.
Madi converses with you. Ricky and I are getting very good at speaking baby. Proof you can learn a new language.
KP
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Friday, January 28, 2011
Walk in someone else's shoes.
I've never grown so much as a person as I have since becoming a mom. The kids teach me so much daily about unconditional love, patience, faith and determination to name a few. But, I learn so much through other parents. I see everyday that my situation is great and although it might be hard, it is nothing compared to what others go through. Two people in my now daily life have inspired me more than I can put into words. I would like my blog followers to meet them through me.
First person. Second time mom in her mid twenties, gave birth to a son recently who is such a blessing. She had a very difficult pregnancy with a lot of emotional, heartbreaking news.Throughout our NICU fight she was a huge support and I've only met her one time! She was able to think of me, Ricky and our babies while dealing with her own battles. She taught me so much recently. When I was crying my eyes out because my kids had ROP and Brody had surgery and we were not sure if he would be able to see, she prayed for us and always had the kindest words to say. Little did anyone know, her son would have ROP and be blind because of his retinas detaching. My worrying about Brody's feeding and 100% against a G Button, being frustrated and stressed that he won't eat like a "normal" baby- her son has a G Button. These are just a couple of things that we kind of have "in common" but it has changed my life. Our issues are so minor. Yes, we do have a lot of issues but it has really taught me a valuable lesson. I am not a poor victim and neither are my kids. If you have that mentality you will be paralyzed and I admire this person so much because with all she is going through, she is so strong. Until you have children with "not typical needs" you will never understand the daily, constant battle. Nothing is easy-nothing. You can't just go to the grocery store or give one a bath. You go about it all in a different way.
The second person is our therapist. What a phenomenal woman. She came again today and we got to know each other a lot better. She has only been an OT for 3 years but has a lifetime of experience. Her oldest is 15 and autistic. She has fought for her and fought some more. I thought I was determined, I've got nothing on her. Her other daughter has Cerebral Palsy, is non vocal, can't walk, eat, along with many other challenges. She has done so much for these kids and has got them so far. It is truly amazing. If she went to a Neurologist and didn't agree, she would go to every Neurologist around until she was comfortable with the care. I can not explain to you how exhausting that has to be. It is exhausting for me to take my trio to the specialist they have and I thought I would die when I had to switch Orthopedics. I'm not sure what her beliefs are but God could not have given her a better calling. She is so great at what she does.
These two have encouraged me so much. It is so awesome to see God's work. There is a reason I've met the first mom and we have the therapist we have. I am very positive and have a lot of faith in my life but sometimes I want just for a moment for things to be easy. The lesson: it is easy compared to the struggles of others. I'm talking real struggles.
It is amazing what you will learn and experience if you stop being so self absorbed and change that all about me attitude.
Krista
First person. Second time mom in her mid twenties, gave birth to a son recently who is such a blessing. She had a very difficult pregnancy with a lot of emotional, heartbreaking news.Throughout our NICU fight she was a huge support and I've only met her one time! She was able to think of me, Ricky and our babies while dealing with her own battles. She taught me so much recently. When I was crying my eyes out because my kids had ROP and Brody had surgery and we were not sure if he would be able to see, she prayed for us and always had the kindest words to say. Little did anyone know, her son would have ROP and be blind because of his retinas detaching. My worrying about Brody's feeding and 100% against a G Button, being frustrated and stressed that he won't eat like a "normal" baby- her son has a G Button. These are just a couple of things that we kind of have "in common" but it has changed my life. Our issues are so minor. Yes, we do have a lot of issues but it has really taught me a valuable lesson. I am not a poor victim and neither are my kids. If you have that mentality you will be paralyzed and I admire this person so much because with all she is going through, she is so strong. Until you have children with "not typical needs" you will never understand the daily, constant battle. Nothing is easy-nothing. You can't just go to the grocery store or give one a bath. You go about it all in a different way.
The second person is our therapist. What a phenomenal woman. She came again today and we got to know each other a lot better. She has only been an OT for 3 years but has a lifetime of experience. Her oldest is 15 and autistic. She has fought for her and fought some more. I thought I was determined, I've got nothing on her. Her other daughter has Cerebral Palsy, is non vocal, can't walk, eat, along with many other challenges. She has done so much for these kids and has got them so far. It is truly amazing. If she went to a Neurologist and didn't agree, she would go to every Neurologist around until she was comfortable with the care. I can not explain to you how exhausting that has to be. It is exhausting for me to take my trio to the specialist they have and I thought I would die when I had to switch Orthopedics. I'm not sure what her beliefs are but God could not have given her a better calling. She is so great at what she does.
These two have encouraged me so much. It is so awesome to see God's work. There is a reason I've met the first mom and we have the therapist we have. I am very positive and have a lot of faith in my life but sometimes I want just for a moment for things to be easy. The lesson: it is easy compared to the struggles of others. I'm talking real struggles.
It is amazing what you will learn and experience if you stop being so self absorbed and change that all about me attitude.
Krista
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Someone has a BIG birthday coming up...
that someone would be Ricky. He will be turning 30 in a few days. I'm going to have onesies made that say Happy 30th Birthday Daddy. My shirt will say Happy. Won't that be so cute? I plan to get him 30 gifts.
It is so crazy that he is already turning 30. Not to worry, I'm sure I will freak out turning 25 this year. We are getting old!
The kids got their RSV shots today. The doctor and nurse said they were very pleased at how well and healthy we kept them this season. They were very concerned since they were so fragile and leaving the hospital at the start of flu and RSV season. Keeping them healthy has not been easy. We've staying home besides doctor's appointments. I'm looking forward to the spring and getting out of the house. I can't wait to go to the park or something outdoors!
All three are eating rice cereal. Madi now loves bananas and squash. We think she has a hollow leg because the girl can put away some groceries. Brody likes rice cereal and bananas but he has very bad aversions so he cries while eating because he freaks out. Gracie has stopped crying while eating rice cereal (she does not like new things) but she isn't to happy about bananas.
Not sure if I've updated but Gracie did get her new braces and they are wonderful. No pain.
Krista
It is so crazy that he is already turning 30. Not to worry, I'm sure I will freak out turning 25 this year. We are getting old!
The kids got their RSV shots today. The doctor and nurse said they were very pleased at how well and healthy we kept them this season. They were very concerned since they were so fragile and leaving the hospital at the start of flu and RSV season. Keeping them healthy has not been easy. We've staying home besides doctor's appointments. I'm looking forward to the spring and getting out of the house. I can't wait to go to the park or something outdoors!
All three are eating rice cereal. Madi now loves bananas and squash. We think she has a hollow leg because the girl can put away some groceries. Brody likes rice cereal and bananas but he has very bad aversions so he cries while eating because he freaks out. Gracie has stopped crying while eating rice cereal (she does not like new things) but she isn't to happy about bananas.
Not sure if I've updated but Gracie did get her new braces and they are wonderful. No pain.
Krista
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
we (heart) therapy
Our OT therapist came out today. We LOVE her! She has 5 children and only one of those children are "normal" Her middle child that is 11 has a G Button so she knows all about feeding issues. Her oldest has very low muscle tone as does Brody so she is experienced there too along in many other areas.
Brody has very low muscle tone. This has a lot to do with Neurological issues. Only time will tell what his muscle tone will be but we will work very hard to get him functioning as best he can. Right now, his brain is not getting the correct signals with touch, head control, etc. As far as feeding, his mouth muscles are extremely tight and he gets very fatigued when drinking a bottle. Mix this with him being "hard headed" equals a very stressful feeding. I have new exercise and stretches to do with his mouth (of course he hates it). It is very hard for me to comprehend these issues. He is so big and looks so healthy but when he can't move about like he should, its hard.
Gracie's arms are concern to the therapist. She thought one was longer than the other which it is. Her neck has more issues than just favoring the one side. Her neck muscles are very short on one side. She also has the issues with her leg and foot as well as not being able to lift her head.
We are going to get an order for Madi to have OT and PT as well since they will be able to work with sitting up and crawling.
The good news is they will be able to follow the kids until we decide to stop treatment. I'm very excited about that. Also, if the kids need any assistance when they start school, having all these things in place will help make getting those services a lot easier.
I hope that the babies will be able to sit up by their first birthday. This will be a big goal but I think we have enough time to accomplish it. Since they will be so small, Ricky and I have been talking about a smaller event for their big day. At this point, they wouldn't be able to eat cake or understand to blow out a candle. I'm not sure if term babies at age 1 can do this but we know ours aren't there yet. Whatever we decide, we will have our family and friends with us ;o)
Krista
Brody has very low muscle tone. This has a lot to do with Neurological issues. Only time will tell what his muscle tone will be but we will work very hard to get him functioning as best he can. Right now, his brain is not getting the correct signals with touch, head control, etc. As far as feeding, his mouth muscles are extremely tight and he gets very fatigued when drinking a bottle. Mix this with him being "hard headed" equals a very stressful feeding. I have new exercise and stretches to do with his mouth (of course he hates it). It is very hard for me to comprehend these issues. He is so big and looks so healthy but when he can't move about like he should, its hard.
Gracie's arms are concern to the therapist. She thought one was longer than the other which it is. Her neck has more issues than just favoring the one side. Her neck muscles are very short on one side. She also has the issues with her leg and foot as well as not being able to lift her head.
We are going to get an order for Madi to have OT and PT as well since they will be able to work with sitting up and crawling.
The good news is they will be able to follow the kids until we decide to stop treatment. I'm very excited about that. Also, if the kids need any assistance when they start school, having all these things in place will help make getting those services a lot easier.
I hope that the babies will be able to sit up by their first birthday. This will be a big goal but I think we have enough time to accomplish it. Since they will be so small, Ricky and I have been talking about a smaller event for their big day. At this point, they wouldn't be able to eat cake or understand to blow out a candle. I'm not sure if term babies at age 1 can do this but we know ours aren't there yet. Whatever we decide, we will have our family and friends with us ;o)
Krista
Sunday, January 23, 2011
...
Hi everyone,
Our little family has some very big issues going on and could use some positve thoughts and prayers.
I wish you all a great week.
Krista
Our little family has some very big issues going on and could use some positve thoughts and prayers.
I wish you all a great week.
Krista
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Dear STUPID leg braces
You hurt my Gracie Ann and if I could do something to hurt you back I would!
Little Sunshine,
If I could trade places with you I would. I hate you have to have any type of pain. You are so graceful and angelic. We do have a long road but I will look for ways to make it a better journey.
I love you and I hope your pain goes away soon so you can get some sleep.
Love,
Mommy
Little Sunshine,
If I could trade places with you I would. I hate you have to have any type of pain. You are so graceful and angelic. We do have a long road but I will look for ways to make it a better journey.
I love you and I hope your pain goes away soon so you can get some sleep.
Love,
Mommy
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Faith: firm belief in something for which there is no proof- complete trust
He has taken care of us and continues. We are so blessed.
Gracie:
The Dermatologist called with the results from her biopsy and there is nothing to worry about. We will consult with a Plastic Surgeon later but nothing to do right now.
The Orthopedic feels she needs new braces for her legs. The brace is not fitting the way it should. The doctor was very pleased with how flexible her foot is now and told me how great of a job I've been doing. That didn't help at all because I put her in a lot of pain every day to get that foot flexible. The doctor is concerned with her left knee because she has a 20 degree contracture. The hope is therapy will fix this.
You can start to hear her laugh now. It is the cutest squeek there is! It is very low pitch but this is huge!
Brody:
Nothing really new with him health wise. We still struggle with feeds and head control. He is talking more these days and likes to move around in his crib. His sister, Madi taught him how to suck his fingers so that is his new favorite past time. He really loves to have his daddy a suprise every morning at 4am to start Ricky's day off just right.... Ricky loves to smell that in the morning :o)
Madilynn:
She has no health issues these days. She is doing great with her rice cereal feeds. I'm looking forward to making her some baby food in the next week or so. She can sit up unassisted for a couple of seconds. She has also started to figure out how to play with toys. Poor baby still has very little hair :o)
We have a lot of appointments I need to schedule coming up. We have to have all of their hearing rechecked very soon. Since they were so preemie there are always concerns for certain things and this is one of them. All three have to get their second flu shot as well as their monthly RSV shot. Brody needs to see the Neurologist for his brain bleed. Madi and Gracie need to see the Dermatologist, Madi needs to see the Cardiologist. Brody and Gracie need to see the Pulmonologist for another OCRG test (to see if they can get off oxygen). Brody and Gracie need to be fitted for helmets. We also need to do blood draws, ultrasounds and echocardiograms.
I need to start planning their 1st BIRTHDAY! July will be here so soon.
I hope everyone enjoyed their pictures of our little cutties!
Krista
Gracie:
The Dermatologist called with the results from her biopsy and there is nothing to worry about. We will consult with a Plastic Surgeon later but nothing to do right now.
The Orthopedic feels she needs new braces for her legs. The brace is not fitting the way it should. The doctor was very pleased with how flexible her foot is now and told me how great of a job I've been doing. That didn't help at all because I put her in a lot of pain every day to get that foot flexible. The doctor is concerned with her left knee because she has a 20 degree contracture. The hope is therapy will fix this.
You can start to hear her laugh now. It is the cutest squeek there is! It is very low pitch but this is huge!
Brody:
Nothing really new with him health wise. We still struggle with feeds and head control. He is talking more these days and likes to move around in his crib. His sister, Madi taught him how to suck his fingers so that is his new favorite past time. He really loves to have his daddy a suprise every morning at 4am to start Ricky's day off just right.... Ricky loves to smell that in the morning :o)
Madilynn:
She has no health issues these days. She is doing great with her rice cereal feeds. I'm looking forward to making her some baby food in the next week or so. She can sit up unassisted for a couple of seconds. She has also started to figure out how to play with toys. Poor baby still has very little hair :o)
We have a lot of appointments I need to schedule coming up. We have to have all of their hearing rechecked very soon. Since they were so preemie there are always concerns for certain things and this is one of them. All three have to get their second flu shot as well as their monthly RSV shot. Brody needs to see the Neurologist for his brain bleed. Madi and Gracie need to see the Dermatologist, Madi needs to see the Cardiologist. Brody and Gracie need to see the Pulmonologist for another OCRG test (to see if they can get off oxygen). Brody and Gracie need to be fitted for helmets. We also need to do blood draws, ultrasounds and echocardiograms.
I need to start planning their 1st BIRTHDAY! July will be here so soon.
I hope everyone enjoyed their pictures of our little cutties!
Krista
Monday, January 17, 2011
2218 Friarwood Trail
Babies, you came home to this house.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Good Bye TEXAS!
One day we might call you home again but only time will tell. One thing is for sure, we will be back to visit.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Rice Krispies
I asked Ricky to stop and pick up some rice cereal for Madi on his way home from the Ortho. I was busy and missed his call, I found my phone and called him back.
Ricky: "I got Rice Krispies cereal and spoons, what else does she need?"
Me:"what? are you playing with me?"
Ricky: "No, why would you think that?"
Me, "Did you really get Rice Krispies cereal?"
Ricky: "Yes"
Me: "Honey, its rice cereal for babies, on the baby food isle"
Ricky: "oh" (a few moments later) "so what kind- regular, wheat.... "
TOO CUTE!
She has come such a long way. I will never forget her first bottle and how it was so much work for her to accomplish it.
More please :)
Hey, That's all I get?
I'm tired and need to have a snack... I will just use my fingers :)My sassy little mini me... LOVE HER!
Did you get something so stinkin cute in the mail today?
I hope so! If not, check tomorrow :) if you don't get anything, I may have missed you, email me your address and I will get it to you asap (before we move)
Things are moving very quickly around here. Movers, home health companies, Realtors, friends, family, etc. have been in and out. We are very excited.
In other good news, we are selling the Honda since Ricky will have a company truck. We still need to do that, find Miley a home, get a small U Haul trailer for our things we will need on the trip, and a couple of other things. I wonder how Hoss will like the snow??? Poor guy, so much has happened in a year.
Ricky is at the Ortho now getting his braces off!!! How exciting! I'm so happy for him.
I almost forgot..... Madi can now have rice cereal! She has to sit in a high chair every time so she knows she has to eat and not play. I'm so excited for her! I hope she does well. I just found out and don't have any cereal yet but as soon as Ricky is home, I'm going to get some.
I'll post pictures of all the excitement asap.
Happy Wednesday!
Krista
Things are moving very quickly around here. Movers, home health companies, Realtors, friends, family, etc. have been in and out. We are very excited.
In other good news, we are selling the Honda since Ricky will have a company truck. We still need to do that, find Miley a home, get a small U Haul trailer for our things we will need on the trip, and a couple of other things. I wonder how Hoss will like the snow??? Poor guy, so much has happened in a year.
Ricky is at the Ortho now getting his braces off!!! How exciting! I'm so happy for him.
I almost forgot..... Madi can now have rice cereal! She has to sit in a high chair every time so she knows she has to eat and not play. I'm so excited for her! I hope she does well. I just found out and don't have any cereal yet but as soon as Ricky is home, I'm going to get some.
I'll post pictures of all the excitement asap.
Happy Wednesday!
Krista
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Things will work out just fine...
Yes! We have a house in PA! We are so excited! It is a 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath, with finished basement, totally renovated with brand new kitchen, new appliances, new multi pane windows, on a gulf course, on 1/2 acre, with lake and hills views, invisible pet fence, free monthly lawn service... I think that does it. The house is only 30- 45 minutes from Ricky's job! The owners are going to build a house on a horse farm and decided, after much prayer, to put their house for sale or rent on Saturday night. Luckily we found the house Saturday night and emailed our relocation realtor. This house is everything we need and more. I forgot to add that it has a very nice playground area with mulch under the swings and slides and is only 30 minutes from Pittsburgh and Pittsburgh airport. Upgrade.... CHECK!
The only thing is we can't move in until March so we will have to stay in temporary housing. This is fine by us because we will live expense free for the first time in over 7 years..... We can finally call ourselves moochers ;o)
Anyway, we will have plenty of space for visitors!!! Check your calenders, book your flights, and we will see you soon!!
Gracie has her biopsy in a couple of hours. Please keep her in your prayers today. She will also find out about her helmet.
Make it a great week and remember to let HIM pave your path and LISTEN. It will all work out.
(Not to worry, I struggle with this all the time because I'm not perfect)
Krista
The only thing is we can't move in until March so we will have to stay in temporary housing. This is fine by us because we will live expense free for the first time in over 7 years..... We can finally call ourselves moochers ;o)
Anyway, we will have plenty of space for visitors!!! Check your calenders, book your flights, and we will see you soon!!
Gracie has her biopsy in a couple of hours. Please keep her in your prayers today. She will also find out about her helmet.
Make it a great week and remember to let HIM pave your path and LISTEN. It will all work out.
(Not to worry, I struggle with this all the time because I'm not perfect)
Krista
Sunday, January 9, 2011
pictures were a complete fail
I just knew I was going to post for everyone to check your mailboxes. Sorry, not yet. Ricky and I were almost in a full body sweat by the time we left. DANG, it is so hard to get three babies to focus :)
Have a great week peeps!
Krista
Oh, I have tried several times to post videos of the kids, I hope to get it figured out soon.
Have a great week peeps!
Krista
Oh, I have tried several times to post videos of the kids, I hope to get it figured out soon.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Madi Faith
Krista
Brody Bear
Sleeping in a pink chair. He is totally confident.
Friday, we had Brody's follow up regarding his eyes and the ROP. We have been really worried because his pupils do not change in size no matter the lighting. Usually I would be nervous about following up but I guess the business of Texas Children's Hospital by myself with the triplets had me distracted because, I had no worries. UNTIL..... the little nurse asked if I had any concerns or noticed anything strange. Of course I told her about the pupils. Instead of putting the drops in for the exam, she stood and said, "The doctor will need to see you right away". I almost threw up my heart. Guess how long I had to wait.... are you guessing?.... a long time! The doctor comes in, flashes lights and all types of things and of course Brody does not respond. Then, finally said something along the lines of no worries, he isn't interested in that toy, the pupils are like that because of the laser surgery, and he would be back after the drops were put in. Another very long time later, he comes in does the exam and.... are you ready?..... Brody does NOT need glasses and does NOT have ROP at all! This is HUGE! For one, they really thought he would need glasses and the other, he is totally healed!
This experience is one I will never forget. The day we found out he had ROP is the day Madi was suppose to come home. We were upstairs at her bedside when the doctor called the unit for us. We of course rushed down to Brody's bedside to hear about the severity of his case, laser surgery, blindness, chance of retina detaching, etc. Me being the emotional train wreck I've become since last year, was crying the ugly cry, Ricky was ice cold. It wasn't that I cared about a handicap it was because I wanted him to be able to see the beauty of life. Then to see him after surgery. It was horrible. His eyes were swollen shut like he had been beaten. A couple days later when he could open his eyes, it looked like they were bleeding. It was a horrible. BUT, in our darkest hours and days, HE pulled us through, again. Most importantly, HE pulled our son through, again!
I'm now so happy that I went through all those experiences because it makes me see the beauty of faith.
We are still concerned with Brody's brain bleeds. They are grade 3, 4 is the worse there is. One of my top priorities once we calm down in PA will be to find a Neurologist to see what the damage really is. I want to find out if his feeding issues are because of his brain bleed or him just being hard headed :) The other concerns we have are the common colds, RSV, and flu. Any illness would be a million times worse on him.
I do have more good news! The Pulmonologist saw him Friday too. She thought he looked great and his lungs sounded awesome. I'm so excited because we've not had to do any breathing treatments. His lungs are growing and getting stronger.
Our goals for Brody Bear: keeping him healthy, improving bottle feeds, working on him being able to lift his head, and better head control.
Fun fact: he is 2 feet tall! He measured 24.5 inches Friday:) He is 3.5 inches taller than Gracie.
Krista
Friday, January 7, 2011
Gracie Ann
Gracie telling her daddy all about the day and those things on her feet that keep hurting her.
waiting at the Pulmonologist thinking she has better things to do like play or sleep
My new shoes and brace.
My little love is doing great and should be off oxygen within a month or so. We will need to see if she will be affected with the higher elevation in PA. The Dermatologist actually met us at the Pulmonologist's office to follow up about the bump on her forehead and her hemangioma on her stomach. The hemangioma is looking great and should start to go down in size. There is no follow up on that. Her forehead will be biopsied on Tuesday. The doctor can't figure out why the mass is growing. The MRI shows that it is not attached to the skull which is great but if it is a fat tumor, it should be going away now that she is 6 months instead of growing. This is done in office. They will give her a shot in her head to numb the area, make a tiny incision, take a sample of the mass, and sew her up. It should be no more than 1 or 2 stitches. I want to have this done by our doctor here because I like her and trust her. Her voice is starting to get a little louder. It is very weak but you can hear it a little better when she cries. Her braces are still very painful for her. The doctor gave me the ok to let her out of them for 30 minutes 4 times per day. I hope this goes away soon.
Isn't she a doll!
Krista
Thursday, January 6, 2011
DONE, So DONE
We can officially move on from Ricky's parents and family. We signed the papers they wanted in agreement that no one in their family would ever contact us again. It is like we don't even exist to them. This is fantastic! It is a great feeling to have them out of our lives for good.... a relief. If only we could change our last names.
I'm excited about this year and moving on in a positive light. Our lives are full of many ups and downs with the babies and although I try to come across positive and cheerful about the babies situation, it is very hard to see each one struggle in their own ways. It is hard to see Gracie in pain all the time. It is hard to see Brody not be able to eat and we worry about his eyes and his sight daily. It is hard to see Madi not do the things a baby her age can do. It is hard to see how behind they are. Gracie not being able to lift her head or Brody for that matter. All of these things on top of the constant worry about them getting sick, even catching a minor cold. Its a tough life right now. It is hard doing this alone all day. It is heartbreaking to feel like your not measuring up to what you know they deserve. It is stressful to think we have three babies to care for at one time financially. It is stressful to worry about medical coverage, will insurance continue to cover so much? What about Gracie's $1200 helmet? Life is hard.
Not to worry because we know things will be better in the long run. We have three beautiful babies that are trying their best everyday. Gracie will be able to walk fine by the time she is 4. Brody might need glasses but so what and he will learn to eat. Madi will be crawling before we know it and Brody and Gracie will follow. I'm determined and they are determined. You will win in the end if you don't give up.
With the things going on in our lives right now, it is very much a breath of fresh air not to have to worry about Ricky's relatives anymore. I know to some it may sound harsh but you have no idea. So, we are excited to be done. Just like we slammed the NICU chapter shut, to never reopen it, We are slamming his relatives chapter shut and running full speed ahead.
To my babies:
Keep this forever as proof (but I know you will never need it).
I promise to love you everyday of my life unconditionally.
I promise to never treat you bad or as if you don't matter.
I promise I will never sue you.
I promise to never play favorites.
I promise to provide a loving home to you that is healthy and clean.
I promise I will take you to the doctor and dentist.
I promise to never be a crutch, or enabler for laziness.
I promise to push for you to do your best and reach for the stars.
I wish the best for the three of you and for happiness everyday of your life.
My hope is for you to know how much I love you... not by just words but actions too.
I promise, wish, and hope these things because you are my babies and my love is forever for each one of you. You each amaze me more everyday and I am honored to be your mom.
You are each our worlds.
We love you,
Mommy and Daddy
I'm excited about this year and moving on in a positive light. Our lives are full of many ups and downs with the babies and although I try to come across positive and cheerful about the babies situation, it is very hard to see each one struggle in their own ways. It is hard to see Gracie in pain all the time. It is hard to see Brody not be able to eat and we worry about his eyes and his sight daily. It is hard to see Madi not do the things a baby her age can do. It is hard to see how behind they are. Gracie not being able to lift her head or Brody for that matter. All of these things on top of the constant worry about them getting sick, even catching a minor cold. Its a tough life right now. It is hard doing this alone all day. It is heartbreaking to feel like your not measuring up to what you know they deserve. It is stressful to think we have three babies to care for at one time financially. It is stressful to worry about medical coverage, will insurance continue to cover so much? What about Gracie's $1200 helmet? Life is hard.
Not to worry because we know things will be better in the long run. We have three beautiful babies that are trying their best everyday. Gracie will be able to walk fine by the time she is 4. Brody might need glasses but so what and he will learn to eat. Madi will be crawling before we know it and Brody and Gracie will follow. I'm determined and they are determined. You will win in the end if you don't give up.
With the things going on in our lives right now, it is very much a breath of fresh air not to have to worry about Ricky's relatives anymore. I know to some it may sound harsh but you have no idea. So, we are excited to be done. Just like we slammed the NICU chapter shut, to never reopen it, We are slamming his relatives chapter shut and running full speed ahead.
To my babies:
Keep this forever as proof (but I know you will never need it).
I promise to love you everyday of my life unconditionally.
I promise to never treat you bad or as if you don't matter.
I promise I will never sue you.
I promise to never play favorites.
I promise to provide a loving home to you that is healthy and clean.
I promise I will take you to the doctor and dentist.
I promise to never be a crutch, or enabler for laziness.
I promise to push for you to do your best and reach for the stars.
I wish the best for the three of you and for happiness everyday of your life.
My hope is for you to know how much I love you... not by just words but actions too.
I promise, wish, and hope these things because you are my babies and my love is forever for each one of you. You each amaze me more everyday and I am honored to be your mom.
You are each our worlds.
We love you,
Mommy and Daddy
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Count down....
What a day yesterday!
It takes 1 hour to leave the house. Since Brody and Gracie are still on oxygen, you have to transfer their o's to the travel tanks, get their monitors, buckle all three in car seats (they really hate this part) and load them up. This is after you make bottles and stock the diaper bag.
Anyway, we got to the Pedi's office for ear piercing and shots. Let me just say that ear piercing is dramatic and traumatic! Never again. On top of that, they had to get 3 shots each and some liquid medication. They were screaming for 30 minutes after. Ricky and I fed them in parking lot and headed to the medical center. The Orthopedic was running late so we didn't see her until around 3 pm. They cut Gracie's cast off. Her foot and leg are very sensitive and will be for a while. She cries when anyone touches it, even when putting a sock on. We left there and went to get her braces. The little shoes are not too bad but the bar that hooks them together is horrible and putting her in the shoe on the foot that has been cast is horrible because her heel is not flat and you have to put the shoe all the way against the heel. It hurts her really bad. Anyway, it is heart breaking to have to hurt her. The fact that she is still non vocal adds to it. We finally got home at 8 pm last night only to do feeds again and get them ready for bed. What a day!
I think there is some real confusion on the flu shot requirements. I think it is really silly for anyone to be under the impression we care if you actually get the flu. The NICU Neonatologist required anyone that would be in contact to have a flu shot. We had to get one before they would release them to us. Honestly, as bad as it may sound, Ricky and I don't care if anyone gets the flu besides our babies. Our babies are the only ones that matter. For someone to use the excuse "you set up all these rules so we couldn't see the babies" is very childish. Welcome to our world, we have NO CHOICE BUT TO LIVE BY RULES. Did you forget they were born at 25 WEEKS? Did you also forget that Brody was on life support for 4.5 months? Oh and this was the first year in my entire life to have a flu shot. And, the babies got their flu shots on top of other shots yesterday so really, 6 month olds can handle it and you can't? I just wonder....
For the record, every single person has been invited to come meet the babies. every.single.one.of.you.
The house is starting to look really bare as move day approaches. Moving is so "on time" in our lives. We are currently being sued by Ricky's parents so it will be very great to be so far away. The damage is so done there. Honestly, there is no going back with any of them. If you can sue your own son, it speaks volumes to the person you are and the family you are.
Moving on, I think we will have our first visitors during spring break! I'm so excited!! In other great news, we found out that the moving package will be good for one year so if we decided we want to buy a house all the great benefits will still be available for us. I hope we love PA since the position is such a great opportunity for Ricky and a fresh start for us.
Thank you for everyone that understands our crazy life and is a support system for us. This life is very difficult and rewarding. We try to take it one day at a time and remain positive and trusting that God will continue to take care of our babies and Ricky and I.
Krista
It takes 1 hour to leave the house. Since Brody and Gracie are still on oxygen, you have to transfer their o's to the travel tanks, get their monitors, buckle all three in car seats (they really hate this part) and load them up. This is after you make bottles and stock the diaper bag.
Anyway, we got to the Pedi's office for ear piercing and shots. Let me just say that ear piercing is dramatic and traumatic! Never again. On top of that, they had to get 3 shots each and some liquid medication. They were screaming for 30 minutes after. Ricky and I fed them in parking lot and headed to the medical center. The Orthopedic was running late so we didn't see her until around 3 pm. They cut Gracie's cast off. Her foot and leg are very sensitive and will be for a while. She cries when anyone touches it, even when putting a sock on. We left there and went to get her braces. The little shoes are not too bad but the bar that hooks them together is horrible and putting her in the shoe on the foot that has been cast is horrible because her heel is not flat and you have to put the shoe all the way against the heel. It hurts her really bad. Anyway, it is heart breaking to have to hurt her. The fact that she is still non vocal adds to it. We finally got home at 8 pm last night only to do feeds again and get them ready for bed. What a day!
I think there is some real confusion on the flu shot requirements. I think it is really silly for anyone to be under the impression we care if you actually get the flu. The NICU Neonatologist required anyone that would be in contact to have a flu shot. We had to get one before they would release them to us. Honestly, as bad as it may sound, Ricky and I don't care if anyone gets the flu besides our babies. Our babies are the only ones that matter. For someone to use the excuse "you set up all these rules so we couldn't see the babies" is very childish. Welcome to our world, we have NO CHOICE BUT TO LIVE BY RULES. Did you forget they were born at 25 WEEKS? Did you also forget that Brody was on life support for 4.5 months? Oh and this was the first year in my entire life to have a flu shot. And, the babies got their flu shots on top of other shots yesterday so really, 6 month olds can handle it and you can't? I just wonder....
For the record, every single person has been invited to come meet the babies. every.single.one.of.you.
The house is starting to look really bare as move day approaches. Moving is so "on time" in our lives. We are currently being sued by Ricky's parents so it will be very great to be so far away. The damage is so done there. Honestly, there is no going back with any of them. If you can sue your own son, it speaks volumes to the person you are and the family you are.
Moving on, I think we will have our first visitors during spring break! I'm so excited!! In other great news, we found out that the moving package will be good for one year so if we decided we want to buy a house all the great benefits will still be available for us. I hope we love PA since the position is such a great opportunity for Ricky and a fresh start for us.
Thank you for everyone that understands our crazy life and is a support system for us. This life is very difficult and rewarding. We try to take it one day at a time and remain positive and trusting that God will continue to take care of our babies and Ricky and I.
Krista
Monday, January 3, 2011
Gracie's big O day!
We have one big day tomorrow!
Gracie will get her cast off!! WHOO HOO!! We will do a little dance in the Orthopedic office :) When we leave there, we have to get her braces and special shoes. My girls is going to be styling!
But before we can do all that fun stuff, we have to get 6 months shots, the kid's flu shot, and ears pierced. Not to worry, Brody won't be getting his pierced.
The plan is to have pictures made tomorrow night but I'm not sure how well it will go since the babies tend to be a little cranky after shots. We are so excited to show off our hip little family!!
Krista
Gracie will get her cast off!! WHOO HOO!! We will do a little dance in the Orthopedic office :) When we leave there, we have to get her braces and special shoes. My girls is going to be styling!
But before we can do all that fun stuff, we have to get 6 months shots, the kid's flu shot, and ears pierced. Not to worry, Brody won't be getting his pierced.
The plan is to have pictures made tomorrow night but I'm not sure how well it will go since the babies tend to be a little cranky after shots. We are so excited to show off our hip little family!!
Krista
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Happy New Year! Our babies are 6 months old!!
Have you made your goals for 2011?? I have! And don't you worry your little heart out, I'm on Ricky's bootay to get his done :) I don't think I'm going to share any of them until I accomplish each of them and we will celebrate BIG on the blog somehow, even with me in PA.
SO, the holidays are over which means I can officially stop snacking on everything edible. Although, I could always go for some rum cakes since MEME didn't make any this year :( BOO HOO!!
On to important stuff...
Our three gorgeous babies are fantastic. They sleep through the night now :) Not that they didn't before but I use to have to feed them every three hours and then every four. Not now, they all take after me and love to sleep. Madi is rolling over! That is so awesome! At first, she was not sure it was a great thing and it scared her really bad but after me clapping and screaming and cheering, I think she gets that it is super cool! Not to worry, my kids already know I'm crazy :) Gracie is amazing. She smiles so pretty and then a half second later, she is screaming. Not really screaming because she is still non vocal but mom and dad are very aware she is not happy. Brody is chill. Maybe a little too chill but I'm working on that. He pulled out his feeding tube and I decided I was really tired of putting it back in. That might sound bad but he is 14 pounds he needs to act as big as he is :) So, we had a chat and I told him he would take bottles from now on. I think this is day 4 of all bottles and no feeding tube. We fight every feed. Its not that he can't take a bottle, he just does not want to. When he is hungry he likes to magically become full. I really feel like a week or so more he will be a pro.
At this point, you can't walk in our house. It is literally like Babies R Us mixed with a daycare. Let me not forget to add that I still have the Christmas tree up. My thoughts are this: why should I organize or clean if movers are going to come in, totally pack us, label everything and then unpack us in PA?? I've got better things to do like take care of my babes. The only down side is that we have a lot of company coming to see us before we leave. The sad thing is I have no shame LOL!
Moving on... PA
So, I have a vision in my head that PA will be so white and cozy and wonderful. What if reality isn't what I picture? Oh and the great news.... WE STILL HAVE NO HOUSE THERE! Isn't that great? The relocation person has to contact us and find us a Realtor and all that jazz. On top of that, we have to drive. It is a 21 hour drive. Is that not the best? Let's load up our three little snow bunnies and dog and drive for days in the middle of winter with snow blizzards everywhere. Sounds fun huh? Little did we know, you have to have a baby per adult to fly until the children are 2. Finding that out was just great. I'm still dealing with that. My plan was to fly down every 6 months or so to see my people. Not happening now. Ricky said I could fly out for the weekend but what fun is that without him and my babies? Plus, if I have the weekend off and can fly somewhere, why not have my friends meet me in NYC? Sorry Texas but NYC is much better :) Or, if he really wanted to give me time off, why not fly to a Mexico vacation. After all the snow I'm sure I will need sand and sunshine. Oh and did anyone realize that a snow jacket is like $250!?!?! And are we suppose to wear gloves? And do you have to wear those thermal pants under jeans? That adds pounds!
OK, well enough. I hope you have a fantastic year. Ricky is turning 30 soon and I'm do something so cool for his birthday but more on that later.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
OUR BABIES ARE 6 MONTHS OLD.... ALREADY! Where has the time gone?
Krista
SO, the holidays are over which means I can officially stop snacking on everything edible. Although, I could always go for some rum cakes since MEME didn't make any this year :( BOO HOO!!
On to important stuff...
Our three gorgeous babies are fantastic. They sleep through the night now :) Not that they didn't before but I use to have to feed them every three hours and then every four. Not now, they all take after me and love to sleep. Madi is rolling over! That is so awesome! At first, she was not sure it was a great thing and it scared her really bad but after me clapping and screaming and cheering, I think she gets that it is super cool! Not to worry, my kids already know I'm crazy :) Gracie is amazing. She smiles so pretty and then a half second later, she is screaming. Not really screaming because she is still non vocal but mom and dad are very aware she is not happy. Brody is chill. Maybe a little too chill but I'm working on that. He pulled out his feeding tube and I decided I was really tired of putting it back in. That might sound bad but he is 14 pounds he needs to act as big as he is :) So, we had a chat and I told him he would take bottles from now on. I think this is day 4 of all bottles and no feeding tube. We fight every feed. Its not that he can't take a bottle, he just does not want to. When he is hungry he likes to magically become full. I really feel like a week or so more he will be a pro.
At this point, you can't walk in our house. It is literally like Babies R Us mixed with a daycare. Let me not forget to add that I still have the Christmas tree up. My thoughts are this: why should I organize or clean if movers are going to come in, totally pack us, label everything and then unpack us in PA?? I've got better things to do like take care of my babes. The only down side is that we have a lot of company coming to see us before we leave. The sad thing is I have no shame LOL!
Moving on... PA
So, I have a vision in my head that PA will be so white and cozy and wonderful. What if reality isn't what I picture? Oh and the great news.... WE STILL HAVE NO HOUSE THERE! Isn't that great? The relocation person has to contact us and find us a Realtor and all that jazz. On top of that, we have to drive. It is a 21 hour drive. Is that not the best? Let's load up our three little snow bunnies and dog and drive for days in the middle of winter with snow blizzards everywhere. Sounds fun huh? Little did we know, you have to have a baby per adult to fly until the children are 2. Finding that out was just great. I'm still dealing with that. My plan was to fly down every 6 months or so to see my people. Not happening now. Ricky said I could fly out for the weekend but what fun is that without him and my babies? Plus, if I have the weekend off and can fly somewhere, why not have my friends meet me in NYC? Sorry Texas but NYC is much better :) Or, if he really wanted to give me time off, why not fly to a Mexico vacation. After all the snow I'm sure I will need sand and sunshine. Oh and did anyone realize that a snow jacket is like $250!?!?! And are we suppose to wear gloves? And do you have to wear those thermal pants under jeans? That adds pounds!
OK, well enough. I hope you have a fantastic year. Ricky is turning 30 soon and I'm do something so cool for his birthday but more on that later.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
OUR BABIES ARE 6 MONTHS OLD.... ALREADY! Where has the time gone?
Krista
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