2 Princes and a Princess

Hearing update

2012-02-08T12:33:00.000-08:00

Just a quick post, because LH is napping and I really should be getting stuff done before school pick up and the meeting tonight.

LH had his hearing check today. It was basically 3 tests. He did great for all of them - didn't complain about the things in his ear, sat quietly in my lap.

The first one, they put ear buds in one ear at a time, and the computer graphed something to do with his ear drum (sorry, a lot of stuff going on in my head right now).

The second test had different ear buds in his ears. He sat on my lap. In front of him was a small dark shadow boxes, and to his left and right were 2 more (on each side) shadow boxes. There would be a sound in one ear, and he would turn his head to that side and one of the boxes would light up to show a toy animal. The front box held a duck, and was used to bring his focus back to the front.

The third test had different ear buds in (see a trend...), but this measured echos off a small part of the inner ear.

His results were normal in the right ear and essentially normal in the left ear. Due to his age and attention span, she couldn't do more testing. If he was older, and she got these results after the play based testing, she would tell the parents to go home and not worry. So, she does want to see him back in a year.

With the second test, his left ear wasnt picking up the quiet sounds. She also said that the first test showed his right ear to be on the borderline of normal.

No update

2012-02-04T23:26:00.001-08:00

I'm sorry I took so long to post an update. Turns out, there's nothing to say.

The day before our appointment with endo, the doctor phoned to cancel. This appointment was made as a follow up to his last one, at which point we didn't have a diagnosis. Now that we know that his condition is a bone one, and not a hormonal one, the endo felt there was nothing to be done from their end.

I expressed concern that they were the only ones who measured everything on him - length as well as arm span and legs. She commented that it was only his length that mattered. But isn't it his arms and legs that are affected? She did offer for us to come in yearly and be monitored since they do measure perfectly.

I also asked about him needing a specialist, since neither his pediatrician or family doctor have any experience with hypochondroplasia. She felt all he needed were regular check ups with the pediatrician.

So, I know there are a few moms with hypo kids... What is your experience? Is your child followed by a specialist? Or is a pediatrician enough?

Tonight, LH is sick. Poor guy. Last week L had a 24 hour bug, and N had a 12 hour bug yesterday. Good thing it was over so quick - it's the first week of playoffs for his soccer team ( they won, after going to a penalty kick shoot out. Much more intense than any other game I've ever watched!).

LH was fine at the game, ran around and even took his nap in the stroller. Once we got home, he just wasn't right. He was sick, then took a long nap. I put him to bed around 9, and when I checked on him 2 hours later he had been sick again. Hope this passes as quickly for him as it did his brother.

Other than that, I've had a very busy week. There are some major changes being proposed for the school. There will be a big meeting on Wednesday and I know it's going to get heated.

The kids were allowed to miss school yesterday and go boarding. We put L in a lesson, so the boys had a couple of hours to ride on their own (first sign that N wasn't feeling well - he was the first to say he was done).

Some photos...

Goodbye January

2012-02-01T07:53:00.001-08:00

Hello February!

Things are going along smoothly here.

I'm busy finishing up the raffle for the kids school.

N tested for his green belt last weekend, and passed. The testing, of course, is getting harder. Not sure how many more I'll be able to watch.

L is special helper today at school. She is bringing in her little brother for show and tell. Should be cute.

LH had his Gessell assement last week. He was such a ham! Was so good for it - his consultant was very impressed with his attention span. She is an infant dev consultant, so her time with us is coming to an end. When a child turns 3, they are transferred to Supported Child Dev. This provides support for the child as they enter preschool. Luckily, she doesn't think that LH will need this.

He was assessed as follows (age 28.5 months)

Problem solving 24 months with five 30 months and two 36 months

Gross motor 24 months

Fine motor 30 months

Language 21 months with half 24 months and three 30 months and one 36 months (the lower end would be expressive and the higher end would be receptive)

Personal-Social 24 months with 2 30 months.

The biggest issue for the gross motor, I think, is the stairs. Since his legs are shorter, he has trouble with stairs. He can now do 'big boy' steps up but it's still one foot to the step, then the next foot to the same step - if that makes any sense. He's jumping off the ground with two feet ( though he would not demonstrate for her!) and he has no problem climbing so I have no concerns with his gross motor.

He has a follow up appointment with the endocrinologist at Childrens tomorrow and he has an appointment to have his hearing checked next week.

His speech is s-l-o-w-l-y coming along. He said his first (and only) 3 word combo last week "Mama please ball" when we were at L's soccer practice.

Better run and get the kids ready for the day!

File under C

2012-01-25T11:34:00.001-08:00

For Crazy!

LH and I were in line to pay at the grocery store yesterday. The older lady behind us began talking to LH. He is a shy boy, so he put his head down and covered his face. While I was putting our groceries on the belt, she massaged his foot and told me she performed relexology on him. Really? She then goes on to tell me that since he is shy he must be lacking in the B vitamins and rattled off things I could buy from the health food store. She also recommended I soak his feet in catnip. She did tell me I could just ignore what she said - probably the sanest things I heard from her!

So, crazy old lady? Or is she onto something?

Our journey with LH...

2012-01-22T01:02:00.000-08:00

I know I’ve posted the quick version of our journey with LH before, but I thought it was time to finally type it all out.

While my pregnancy with LH was average, it was different than my first two. At the routine 20 week ultrasound, it was noted that the placenta was very low. If it did not move up during the pregnancy, I would need a c-section. Everything else from the ultrasound was normal, and when I went back for a follow up in the third trimester, the placenta had moved up enough to no longer be a concern.

At 28 weeks, I was diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes. Not a huge surprise, as I was border line with N, and although I passed the one hour test with L, I suspect that I developed it later in the pregnancy. I was a mess for a few days. I was concerned with how it would affect the baby, and I was scared to deliver in a hospital with a label of GD. I went to a class at the hospital, and met with nurses and a dietician. My mom has been a diabetic for years, so I knew what I had to do – I was familiar with pricking my finger and checking my blood. I began tracking everything I ate. I learnt what foods worked for me, and which ones didn’t. My main goal was to keep my numbers stable and not need insulin. I walked on the treadmill every night. I was very lucky, and didn’t need insulin.

My one ‘silly’ worry with that pregnancy was going into labor in the middle of the night. N was born in the morning, L in the evening. I had this feeling that LH was going to come in the middle of the night and I would need to call people out of bed. Of course, that’s what happened. 5 days after his due date, LH was born at 3:50am. It was a normal birth, no worries. He weighed 8lbs 9oz. I don’t remember his length. His head was bigger than his siblings, and I remember the midwife making a comment about the size of his head.

We watched him for any signs that would show problems with his blood sugars, but there were none. He latched on right away, and nursed without issue. A few weeks after, I went for my blood work, and my blood sugar numbers were back to normal.

When LH was about 4 weeks old, we noticed that his head looked a little funny. It was hard to describe, but it was almost like the bones near his temple were uneven. The midwife looked at him, and offered us a referral to a pediatrician. Since he was acting fine, didn’t seem to be in any pain and wasn’t showing any neurological issues, we decided to take a wait and see approach. 2 weeks later we were transferred back to the care of our family doctor and he didn’t seem concerned.

We saw the doctor at 2 and 4 months for the well baby checkups. Everything seemed to be going along smoothly. LH was growing and developing as I expected. I didn’t take note of his weight or height measurements. He was a happy baby and nothing seemed to bother him.

As he approached 6 months, I started to notice that he wasn’t outgrowing clothes the way my other kids had. In fact, at 6 months he could still fit newborn swim trunks. Pants that were 6 months were huge and would fall off. When he was 7 months, we went to the doctor for his six month check up. I brought up my concerns, but the doctor didn’t see any issue. He was growing, he was happy and healthy and meeting his milestones. I put it out of my mind.

As summer approached, I was still noticing that he wasn’t outgrowing his clothes. Not only that, but his head was big. He needed an 18m-2t hat, but 3-6 month pants. For the first time since becoming a mom 10 years ago, I googled percentiles. I had never bothered with them with my older two; my doctor had never mentioned them. For weight and height, LH was below the 10^th percentile, while his head was over the 95^th %. Since birth, his height/weight %s had gone down, while his head had gone up.

In July, I made another appointment with the family doctor to bring up my concerns. He agreed that LH’s head was disproportionate to his body and made a referral to a pediatrician.

We met with Dr H. later that month. His concern at the time was the size of LH’s head. He sent us for an ultrasound of his head, as well as blood and urine tests. He also wanted to get LH’s weight up and suggested we add high fat foods to his diet.

We went back in November. The ultrasound came back normal, and Dr H. was satisfied that while his head was big, there was nothing wrong with it. At this point, LH‘s weight was down to 0.07% and his height was at 2.7%. Now Dr H. was concerned that there was a problem with how LH’s body absorbed nutrients. He again pushed high fat foods (I never went crazy with the suggestion of putting liquid whipping cream in his food – instead I would add olive oil to his yogurt or applesauce and give him a pediasure before bed). He sent us for a sweat test to rule out CF. We also did blood work – a bunch of different tests including karyotyping (a test that looks at the chromosomes) and to rule out Russell Silver dwarfism. All that came back normal.

In January LH went for a bone age x-ray – that came back on the low end of normal, 2 months delayed. He went for more blood work. This time, there was a decrease in a growth hormone sub factor and the doctor put in a referral for us to see a pediatric endocrinologist at Children’s. He also put in a referral to see the genetics department at Children’s.

We were able to get an appointment to see the Endocrinologist in February (the wait to see the genetics was 9 months). The doctors there gave LH a good look over, measured his leg and arm span (and his penis!?). The decrease in the GH was attributed to a low body weight. At the time, the doctor felt it could either be a hormone or bone issue, and didn’t want to do any further testing until LH was seen by genetics. One doctor mentioned achondroplasia and the other mentioned hypochondroplasia.

In April, we were once again back at the pediatrician. This time he sent LH for blood work to test for achondroplasia. The results took over 2 months to come back negative.

In July, the pediatrician sent LH for blood work to test for hypochondroplasia.

In August, we finally got an appointment to see genetics in September.

In a weird twist of timing, days before we were set to see the genetics department, I received a phone call from the pediatrician’s office, asking us to come in to see the doctor. I knew that meant something had come up on the hypo test. Of course, the receptionist couldn’t say anything on the phone, and the next available appointment wasn’t until October. I phoned back to request getting on the cancellation list, in hopes of being seen sooner. I was able to get in the following Friday. I phoned back again, trying to get some information. I mentioned that we were scheduled to see genetics in a few days, and she assured me that they had the information.

About an hour later, a genetic counselor from Children’s phoned, under the pretense of getting in touch and going over LH’s history and our concerns before his upcoming appointment. On the phone, she confirmed the diagnosis of hypochondroplasia. (http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/hypochondroplasia)

A part of me knew that this was what LH had. Part of me had prepared for this. But still, we were rocked by actually hearing it confirmed. It was a hard weekend. It was heart breaking to have to tell L and N (looking back, I should have told them separately – they were both bawling, I was crying and LH was going from N to L to me and hugging us). But they are strong kids, and it didn’t take them long to adjust and turn their thinking to positive.

We met with the genetics doctors a few days later. I went in armed with a list of questions, but once I got into the room, I became a deer in the head lights. I just clung to LH, and he clung to me. I was so thankful that D was there with me, because he stepped up and spoke for both of us.

The genetics doctor was very positive. He explained a lot to us and really seemed to downplay a lot of our worries. We left feeling much better about the future.

We saw the pediatrician a few days later, and he too was very laid back about it. He wants to see LH every 6 months while he’s still young and if any concerns come up (though I still need to see our family doctor first for a referral). Sometimes I wonder if we should be seeing a doctor who has more experience with this condition. I don’t think either our family doctor or pediatrician has ever had a patient with hypo. Some days this laid back, wait and see attitude calms me, and other days it worries me.

We see the endocrinologist for a follow up next month. Not sure what to expect, since this appointment was made before we received the diagnosis. We see the pediatrician in March.

It’s been 4 months since the diagnosis and I can now say that there are days that I don’t even think of it. I no longer obsess about his weight and height. I think I’ve only pulled out the measuring tape once in the last 2 months. It still hits me now and then – when I think of him starting preschool in September. I worry about kids teasing him. I worry about him being able to do things other kids can do. I know we’ll just have to face each obstacle as it comes. I’m already thinking ahead to elementary school, and have practically begged the kindergarten teacher that L had to stay for a few more years.

As for LH, he’s still a happy, funny boy. He loves to climb. He’s becoming a little dare devil, which is scary. He loves to jump off the couch – I worry about his neck. He’s finally able to climb the stairs, though he prefers to crawl up as it’s faster (and will try to go down, head first on his belly). He still falls often, but he usually gets up, dusts off his hands and continues on.

He’s smart, but is mildly delayed in his speech. I don’t know if that is because of the hypo (some studies have shown a mild to moderate intellectual disability or learning problems, but other studies have produced conflicting results), or just the way he is. He does pretty well with getting his point across, and still uses some sign language. His hearing has never been tested (have been waiting 10 months for that appointment – grrrr), so we don’t know if that has anything to do with the speech. He is on a wait list for speech therapy, but the wait is over a year for one on one. I’m still waiting for that big explosion of words to happen. I know he’s progressing, and will surprise me with a new word here and there, but it’s still slow.

He is being followed by an infant development consultant – K comes to the house every few months to check up on us. LH really enjoys her visits. She’s due to come over next week, and she will be doing a Gesell assessment. We did one back in June, when he was 21 months old.

Gross motor was 18 months (with one 21m skill and one 24m skill)

Fine motor was 18m

Cognitive/adaptive 21-24m with one 30m and one 36m skill

Language -expressive 18m and receptive 21-24m

Personal/social 21m with two 24m skills.

It will be interesting to see how he’s progressed with this next assessment.

Snow!

2012-01-18T20:12:00.001-08:00

Brother vs Sister

2012-01-18T07:33:00.001-08:00

At karate the kids got to spar each other. Love the smile on N's face.

trying again

2012-01-17T17:32:00.000-08:00

Here's the link to the bread I posted below

http://www.laurenslatest.com/hasselback-garlic-cheesy-bread/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+laurenslatest%2FyMlk+%28Lauren%27s+Latest%29&utm_content=Google+Reader

I found the recipe on pinterest. Have you heard of that site? ;)

Yum

2012-01-17T15:48:00.001-08:00

My new fave garlic bread. Best part is that the recipe makes 2 loaves - one can be eaten fresh out of the oven and one saved for dinner.

Hope the link works...
http://www.laurenslatest.com/hasselback-garlic-cheesy-bread/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+laurenslatest%2FyMlk+%28Lauren%27s+Latest%29&utm_content=Google+Reader

The only thing I did different was mix fresh garlic and this yummy pizza seasoning into the butter.

This week is dragging on

2012-01-12T19:24:00.001-08:00

I can't believe this week isn't over yet!

I survived the second class of boot camp. She had a circut set up, and after doing one station for 45 seconds, you did 45 seconds of cardio. We did the circut 3 times. I hope I can get out of bed tomorrow.

Is it really only Wednesday?

2012-01-11T12:36:00.001-08:00

I have been off by a day all week. Sigh...

I made it through my first boot camp. It was tough, but I think I did ok (I was able to walk the next day!). I am not coordinated at all - so anything that requires you to move your arms and legs in different motions at the same time throws me off. Luckily, there wasn't much of that! I am a little nervous (ok, a lot!) as the instructor kept referring to the first 2 classes as easy, to allow her to evaluate our levels.

As for reading, I finished Lethal. It was ok - drawn out in some spots and I wasn't too happy with the ending. I'm onto The White Queen now and enjoying it.

We have a busy weekend ahead. There are 3 birthday parties to attend this weekend, and 2 soccer games. On Friday I am joining N's class on a field trip to watch a curling match.

It's not a resolution

2012-01-09T13:32:00.001-08:00

Nope. I don't do resolution. It just happens to be January and I've joined a bootcamp. One of the moms in L's class is doing it for the teachers at the school. My mom (in her 60s) has been going to a bootcamp for 2 years. If she can do it, surely I can too.

I just hope I don't make a fool out of myself.

Back into the swing of things

2012-01-07T22:21:00.000-08:00

The first week back usually is crazy, as we try to get used to the routine and schedules.

We lucked out this time around...Monday was still a day off, so L had no soccer practice and N had his practice cancelled due to heavy rain. So, we just had karate and playdates.

N even got to go up to the mountain with just his dad on Friday. A first, as L has always been with them (she chose to stay home and go to PJ day at Karate). It was good for the boys - because L still requires so much attention, N is often on his own when they board. This was a great chance for the boys to board together - D is really amazed at how well N is picking it up.

I had to laugh (because, really, what else can you do?) at LH. Before Christmas break, I thought it was so nice that the older kids would be able to sleep in, and how I would still be up with LH at 5:30 every morning. He shocked us when he slept in until 8 or 8:30 every day of the break! I was actually worried that I would have to wake him up, to get the kids to school. First day back, he was up at 7 - perfect timing, actually, as I was just waking the older two up. But, 2 days later and he was back up at 5:30 for no reason. Today it was 7ish - there really is no rhyme or reason to it. I'm just thankful I had those 2 weeks!

I've been busy with school PAC stuff - the raffle we are doing is over next week, so I am sure things will get busier in the next week. It will be all worth it in the end (I'm hoping for some monkey bars out of it!)

As for reading...I finished Tick Tock. A good, quick read. Before I borrowed that book, I had taken out The Lady of the Rivers by Phillipa Gregory. It was a 7 day Super loan, but because of Christmas, I was given extra time with it. I enjoyed it a lot - and that' saying something as I don't enjoy a lot of period books. I had read a couple of hers before (The Other Boleyn Girl to name one).

When I brought back The Lady book, I took a quick look for others form Phillipa Gregory and found the other 2 in the series - The White Queen and The Red Queen. Grabbed those to read.Of course, I can not be in the library without checking out the New Release section, and spotted Lethal by Sandra Brown. It's another Super loan, so I am reading that first before hitting the Queens.

Dojo baby

2012-01-06T20:05:00.001-08:00

He's been going to watch his older siblings at karate since he was 2 weeks old. Lately he's been sitting in and watching the kids and now he is starting to copy their moves during class. Cute. But it can get distracting, as he enjoys the yelling part of it - only he's a few seconds behind the class. I've caught Sempai laughing at it.

Here he is at home with sparring gear that he has put on himself.

Choo choo

2012-01-05T21:02:00.001-08:00

One of LH's favorite Christmas gifts.

Helping

2012-01-04T18:11:00.001-08:00

An oldie but a goodie

2012-01-03T21:29:00.001-08:00

Back to the routine

2012-01-02T19:47:00.001-08:00

Tomorrow...

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T11:13:00.001-08:00

I'm hoping to start a daily Photo of the Day Challenge on my blog.

I thought I would start it the same way I start most mornings. A cup of tea in my special cup. The kids gave it to me for Mothers Day last year. The older kids signed it and Landon added a finger print. I love that it's bigger than a normal tea cup - I need a big cup in the morning!

One of those nights...

2011-12-29T22:11:00.000-08:00

Tonight turned out to be one of those nights where everything just works out.

D and I had been talking about getting a pair of 2 way radios for them to bring up to the mountain. N is a lot faster than L when it comes to boarding, and will often do 'laps' on the run while D stays with L. A couple of weeks ago, we picked up some whistles, but I wanted something else.

D started looking online, and found this set at a local store

Bonus - they were on sale! I called the store, only to be told that tonight was the last night of the sale. I was bummed, thinking the store closed in 5 minuts (it did according to their website) and D and the kids are planning another mountain trip tomorrow. Luckily, the store was open an extra hour, so I drove down and picked up a set. The kids have already had fun testing them out. I feel a lot safer knowing that D and N will have one more mode of communication.

On the way home, I drove past the library, and remembered I had a book ready for pick up (and also remembered I had a book, sitting at home, ready to be dropped off...). It was late, but the library was still open, so I stopped by and grabbed the book (Love the hold system!)

While at the library, I remembered that I had promised the kids a movie/sleep downstairs night. We were just going to pick a movie through VOD, when I saw Rango sitting on the shelf. Kids hadn't seen it yet, and it's free!

To top it off...Gaga had some popcorn for them!

Now, fingers crossed the weather/conditions are good and they can board tomorrow night.

Blog reader?

2011-12-28T09:30:00.001-08:00

Any one have a blog reader app they can recommend for the ipone?

The plan

2011-12-28T09:08:00.001-08:00

The plan had been to stay up all night, so they could be the first ones up. I think it backfired.

They were playing around in N's room last night. They were getting along, so I left them.

At one point, L comes down and I ask her what they were doing.

"Watching N play apps on his iPod" she answered.

"After I told him no more screen time for the day?"

"Oh Mom, we're having a good time so could you just lay off for tonight?" (yeah, she's seven!)

Then she starts tearing up because "I just didn't want to lie to you. Please don't tell N I told you".

I wonder what time they were up to? Or, better yet, what time they will wake up?

It's been over a decade

2011-12-26T16:23:00.001-08:00

I haven't been to a boxing day sale in many, many years. The older I get, the less I can handle crowds and busy places.

Over the past 6 months, N has been saving up for an iPod touch. I'm pretty proud of his ability to save for such a big thing - there certainly have been many smaller things that he could have bought along the way. He received some money for Christmas, which meant he had enough to make his purchase.

Best Buy had the touches on sale, but there was no way I was commiting to being there for the store opening at 6am. I explained to him about Boxing day, and the craziness of it. I also told him that often, stores don't stock a lot of a sale item, so it may be sold out by the time we got there.

We slept in until 8, then headed over. I was surprised that the store wasn't overly busy. We found the iPod area and waited in line. He got one! By the time we were done, there was quite the line behind us - and when I went back an hour later to grab a screen protector the store was much busier.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-26T16:14:00.001-08:00

I hope everyone enjoyed a wonderful Christmas - we certainly did.

This year, N and L got experience gifts as their main presents. N got tickets to see Myth Busters in January and L got horseback riding lessons (but they don't start until March). I think they were both happy with the gifts.

LH got a tool bench and a starter train set, among many other things.

Some photos

one more

2011-12-24T19:12:00.001-08:00

http://contour.com/stories/night-rider-4

Randomness

2011-12-24T15:26:00.001-08:00

A bunch of random photos from the past year. Still learning the blogger app for the iPhone so I'm not even sure the photos will be in any specific order.

Enjoy!

More snowboarding

2011-12-24T11:02:00.001-08:00

Hope these work...filmed by a friend with his helmet cam...

http://contour.com/stories/night-rider-3

http://contour.com/stories/night-rider-2

http://contour.com/stories/night-rider-1

Still sleeping....

2011-12-23T08:20:00.001-08:00

The older kids were allowed to sleep downstairs last night. They choose The Smurfs to watch. I heard lots of giggles. I seem to remember hearing them still up at 1:30. Good thing there is nothing planned today!

It's been awhile...

2011-12-22T23:49:00.000-08:00

Wow, it’s certainly been a long time, eh? I spent some time here the other night, going through old posts. Brought back a lot of memories…and feelings of guilt for not keeping it up.

3 years…there have been many changes around our family. Some big. Some small.

First, a little update on the kids –

N is now 10.5 and in grade 5. He doesn’t love school, but does fairly well. No report card as of yet this year due to the teachers strike, but from talking to his teacher he seems to be on the right track. He does need to work more on pushing himself to do more than the basic requirements, especially when it comes to creative writing. He likes to get the assignment done as quickly as possible so that he can move on to other things. He could be such an awesome writer if he just pushed himself – with his imagination and love of reading (often our biggest struggles with him is to put the book down and go to sleep!). He still plays soccer – 5th year – with the same coach. He plays goal and defense mostly, once in a while will move up to forward. He’s getting close to 3 years in Karate – he’s currently an advanced orange belt with 2 tips. He’s hoping to get his invitation to test for his green belt in the New Year.

L is 7 going on 14. She is in grade 2 and while she will say she doesn’t like school, I know she does. She is doing great – again just from talking with the teacher. She seems to be doing well in math and spelling. She’s on her 3rd year of soccer and loves it, and going on 3 years in Karate. She just earned her orange belt, and is finally in the same class as her brother (whew – that saves me 1.5 hours a week!). Her biggest challenge will be working hard to be invited into the dojo’s BBM program.

Both kids started snowboarding last year and have taken it up again this season. The progress they have made in their last 2 trips to the mountain is amazing. See the post below for a video of L. Hard to get one of N – he’s too fast!

The biggest change to our family requires a new name for the blog (any suggestions?).

In September 2009, we were blessed with our third child, LH. That pregnancy proved to be the hardest one yet as I developed gestational diabetes. Thankfully, through diet and exercise I was able to keep my blood sugar stable and I didn’t require any medication.
5 days past his due date, just before 4 in the morning, LH was born, at home with his dad, siblings and both grandmothers present (along with 2 midwives). He weighed in at 8lbs 9oz. I can’t remember his length, but I do remember the midwife commenting on the size of his head – much bigger than the other two.

We adjusted to life as a family of 5. LH was a happy, easy going baby. Not much choice when you are the third child. He spent most of his time going to and from school, and other activities.

In March of 2010, as we were preparing to take a vacation, I noticed that he wasn’t outgrowing the clothes the same way as his older siblings had – you know, when you buy your baby an outfit and they wear it once and then it doesn’t fit. In fact, at almost 6 months old, he could still fit a newborn size swim short. I had never bothered with percentiles with the older kids – they grew fine and we never worried. My doctor used to joke that I made High Octane milk. With LH, he got weighed at his regular checkups, but I didn’t bother with weekly weight checks like I did as a first time mom when N was a baby. At his 6 month check up (which was actually at 7 months), I mentioned this to the doctor. He didn’t seem too concerned – LH was gaining weight, meeting the milestones and was a happy baby.

A few months later, it was really bugging me – he still wasn’t growing out of clothes like he should have been. I weighed him, measured his length and head circumference and googled percentiles. His weight was under the 2nd percentile; his length 10th (it would soon drop down to the bottom too). But his head was 98th percentile.

In July, LH was 10 months old and I made another appointment with our family doctor. He saw this disproportion too, and referred us to a pediatrician, Dr. H. We were able to get in to see him that month, and we started investigating. Over the next 14 months we went through a head u/s, many blood tests, a few urine tests, a sweat test to rule out CF, and a bone xray.

In September of 2011, we received a diagnosis. LH has hypochondroplasia. Basically, it’s a mild form of achondroplasia which is the most common type of dwarfism. Because it is a milder form, people with hypo are taller than those with achon and have less medical concerns. He probably won’t be playing football when he grows up, but non contact sports should be ok. Actually, the height range for males with hypo is 4 feet, 6 inches to 5 feet, 5 inches so he could end up taller than me! At the moment, he is a happy and healthy 2 year old; a boy who loves to climb and get into trouble. Most people don’t see anything different with him – they just assume he is younger than he is. Put him beside a child his age, and you notice the size difference. It’s not a big issue right now, but I do worry about next year when he starts preschool. My favorite new saying after all of this has become “it is what it is” (hmm...a new blog title?). We’ll take it a day at a time, and try to teach him that size isn’t everything.

The kids keep me pretty busy – I try to help out at the school when I can, both it L’s class and with the PAC. So far, LH has been pretty good with tagging along and letting me get things done. I hope to keep this blog updated more and maybe even try to tackle a Photo of the Day challenge in the New Year.

Snowboarding

2011-12-22T23:43:00.000-08:00

Testing...testing...1...2...3...4

2011-12-22T09:07:00.001-08:00

Just downloaded the blogger app so I'm testing it out...

The Ladybug Coaster

2008-09-16T17:19:00.000-07:00

The family is back from a wonderful trip back east - we all had a great time. I survived Niagara Falls and Marineland solo with the kids (and even managed to make it back to Toronto on my own without Sally (aka the GPS unit).

Of course there are many photos to share, and I will in the next day or so.

Right now, I wanted to share this clip...make sure your volume is turned up...but not too loud!

(And if you think that is loud....try watching it with Miss L beside you. She likes to recreate the experience right here at home...)

it's so quiet...

2008-09-08T10:48:00.000-07:00

Both kids are at school...N in grade 2, and Miss L at her first day of Pre-K preschool.

Life is good, but busy. The last weeks of the summer were full of N's party, two weeks of swimming lessons and our annual trip up to Pemberton. It's been so nice to have done that trip for the past 4 years...as we headed to the back of the farm, to where the play house and tractor were N summed it up pretty well...he said "wow, I don't remember the tractor being that small!". You sure have grown, my sweet baby boy.

We are in the midst of selling our house and getting ready for a trip back east - something we've been looking forward to for what seems like ages. Carolyn and Rob's wedding. I can only hope that the kids don't get shy at the last minute and back out of walking down the aisle as ring bearer and flower girl.

Once I return I will update with photos from the trip and summer.

Her first attempt!

2008-08-13T20:47:00.000-07:00

Check this out! What's missing? :)

4 years ago today

2008-07-09T00:05:00.000-07:00

I was waiting...9 days past my due date, we were all getting very anxious to meet Miss L.

I had spent the morning at the hospital, for a non stress test. A procedure that should take 20-40 minutes, took us close to 90. Baby must have been sleeping. The OB who looked at the strip - but never at me - wasn't too happy with the results and recommended that I come back the next day for another test.

That afternoon I saw my midwife, who performed a 'sweep', hoping to get things going.

I woke up early the next morning with some contractions, but I still drank the awful tasting concoction that my midwife had advised - ok, actually I think I gave up after 2 sips. I headed back to the hospital for the second NST, which luckily went a little better and the OB on call was happy to let me go home for the weekend, with instructions to come back on Monday if I hadn't given birth over the weekend. I hoped that wouldn't be the case - 14 days overdue and you are risked out of a homebirth.

Funny thing is that the whole time I was in the hospital, I never had any contractions - once I got home, they started up again. By 2ish everyone was at the house, including the 2 midwives, and at 7pm Miss L made her grand entrance.

it's been an incredible journey since then, full of laughter...and tears. She is such an amazing child, and I often forgot how old she really is.

She was a little sad today, that she would no longer be 3. I am sad too, but so looking forward to the new adventures this year will bring.

a proud big brother holding his sister for the first time...

Learn to Fish

2008-07-05T22:40:00.000-07:00

So, over the years the kids have asked to fish. It's something that we always put off, due to no equipment or experience. I was browsing through the city's leisure guide and I came across a program called Learn to Fish. It's held every Wednesday at a local lake and they provide everything needed to fish. Best of all, it's a free program.

There were 2 ladies running it, and they started off with quite the demonstration on fish identification, preservation and how to fish. Both kids were taught how to cast, given rods and set off to fish.

They loved it! After a few tries, N became quite the caster. Since it was such a warm night, most of the fish were laying pretty low, so nothing was caught, but it was great practice. The program is run every Wednesday, so I am pretty sure we'll be back!

Victoria 2008 - photos

2008-07-04T22:34:00.000-07:00

waiting for the canon battle...

with some of the street performers...he really enjoyed Plaster Man, and would ask for change to put in their containers. He did that for the musicians he liked as well.

La Nina

Checking it out...

on the Nina...

Pirate school...

Watching a juggling street performer. N thought this guy was so funny!

at the museum...

on the ferry, coming home...

Victoria 2008

2008-07-03T22:54:00.000-07:00

We left for Victoria last Friday, opting to forgo a rental car and walk on. We grabbed a bus from the ferry to right downtown Victoria, just 2 blocks from our hotel. Dropped off our bags and went exploring - of course we ended up at the waterfront where Miss L and I were "welcomed" by a seagull...if you know what I mean...ick!

After a quick change, we went back to the water, and checked out the tall ships. We knew there was going to be mock cannon battle, so we decided to check that out. The nice lady at the tourist booth must not have kids, as she told us that it would only be a 15 minute walk to Ogden Point, the location of the battle. Ha! Took much longer than that, but the kids didn't mind too much.

We had a forgettable dinner at a cafe (a lesson learned in my new found enthusiasm for sushi - only buy from a place that makes it on site. ick.), then waited to see this battle. Once it finally started, the battle proved forgettable as well - we were too far, and the cannon booms too spaced out to be exciting.

We took a taxi back, which confirmed that we did the right thing by not renting a car. The city is not an easy one to drive, as many intersections have 5 streets. I couldn't believe some of the moves the taxi driver attempted!

The hotel was great - had a nice pool that we made use of before bed each night.

Saturday was our day at the Tall Ships Festival. We had really come to see the Nina - the replica of the ship Christopher Columbus sailed on. I think we were all a little disappointed in how small the ship was! Still, we boarded her and 2 other ships. Poor Miss L was not impressed with the volunteers offering to help her board and disembark. Only I could help. I was able to get her on the 3rd ship, but getting her off proved difficult - there was quite the gap between the ship and stairs. She would not let anyone help her - just stood there crying. It was too awkward for me to reach over and grab her. Finally the captain came over, scooped her up and carried her over. He'd raised 4 kids on boats, so she was in good hands. He did it so quickly, she didn't have time to react.

After that, we spent some time around the festival. N did Tall Ships U, put on by the Canadian Navy, and both kids went to Pirate school.

After the festival, we went to the Undersea Gardens a place that has not changed at all since I was there years and years ago. After that we hit Miniature World. We finished the day off with swimming and a yummy dinner at The Sticky Wicket.

Sunday we took the kids to the Royal British Columbia Museum. Both kids really enjoyed this. I was happy to see the Mammoth was still there. There was also a cool ocean station. N really took to the First Nation exhibit - he liked looking and learning about the masks. I also took N to see Wild Ocean, on the IMAX screen.

All in all a great weekend - lots of sun, walking and ice cream!

Instead of taking photos inside a lot of the places, my mom suggested the kids get postcards. What a great idea! The both got to pick out a few after each attraction, and N has put together quite a post card scrapbook! It's interesting to see which postcards the kids picked out - what high lights of the attractions they want to remember.

Here are some photos...

Watching a street performer...

In a tree outside the museum...

at the harbor

I have more photos, but Blogger is being a pain right now. I'll get them up later.

wow...

2008-06-23T11:09:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile, eh? Sorry about that.

Things have been busy around here, and I am looking forward to the lazy days of summer that are coming up - though with all the things I'd like to do with the kids, it won't be that lazy!

N is 2.5 days from finishing grade 1. He's done well this year, though, sadly, his enjoyment for school has gone down. I hope that comes back with grade 2. His reading is just so awesome! He's getting into The Magic Tree House series. I found 11 of them at the library book sale (for 10 cents each! Gotta love those deals!). Of course, he wants to wait until he has the whole series (something like 50 books?) to start reading them - in order, of course. Not sure when that will be.

He just finished a season of Super-T. His swing really came in the last few games and he was getting some good hits. It was great to see the kids develop and progress in the game. He'd love to play again next year. I sent in his forms to play soccer again in Sept. Got my fingers crossed that he gets the same coach as last year.

Miss L just wrapped up her preschool. She had a great time, and is looking forward to Pre-K in the fall. I've got her registered with the same teacher that N had for his class.

She got her ears pierced last week - she did great! It's something that we talked about a lot in the last few months, and while we were at the mall last week, she decided it was time. Brave girl didn't even cry when it was done - I was the one holding back the tears! She did cry for a moment a few minutes after, saying she wanted the earrings out - I think the shock wore off, and her ears probably began to hurt a little. But that was that, and she's loved them ever since. The store was out of rubies, so she has little daisies.

This weekend, Mom and I are taking the kids to see the Tall Ships in Victoria. Mom has been telling the kids stories about La Nina, the ship that Christopher Columbus sailed on, and the replica ship is one of the tall ships. Should be a nice weekend away.

Our townhouse is on the market, and we are actively looking at buying a house. The market has really changed in the last year, and while it's become a buyer's market, we are having trouble finding something suitable. Of course, the neighborhood I've picked out is small, and it seems that nobody wants to leave! We've got our fingers crossed, and I am sure it will all work out.

for mom

2008-04-01T06:50:00.001-07:00

Walking with Dinosaurs

2008-02-01T19:18:00.000-08:00

N and I have a date to see some dinosaurs tomorrow. He got tickets to Walking With Dinosaurs and I have to say, I'm pretty excited to see the show! What a great way to spend some time with my boy!

snow!

2008-01-31T11:23:00.000-08:00

We finally had snow that lasted more than an hour before getting rained away. Not enough to close the schools here (boo!), but at least the kids got to play. D and L made a huge snow man, and named him Smiley. When N got home from school he attempted to put snow fingers on Smiley. He was doing pretty good, but he was set on giving Smiley 5 fingers on each hand and that wasn't working too well.

In other news, L made it into another ballet class. I put her on the waiting list after her last session ended, and a spot opened up for her. She's only missed one class in this session. The only problem is that Miss E, the beloved teacher from last time was not able to teach this session. L was pretty upset to hear that, but we were able to talk to her, and she'll give the new teacher a try.

I've sent in the papers to register N for baseball. Fingers crossed he gets on a team. He's looking forward to that.

He has his allergy appointment tomorrow (was supposed to be 2 weeks ago, but we all got sick, so we had to reschedule). Hopefully this will shed some light on his throat clearing (which has just started up again).

sitting here

2008-01-29T06:50:00.000-08:00

at 6:45, refreshing the news 1130 web page, hoping that school is closed and I can go back to bed. Fingers crossed!

scrapping...

2008-01-26T20:08:00.001-08:00

I haven't done a lot of scrapping lately, but here a couple of pages I've done...(sorry they are small, I had to save them from the web, as all my pages are on the hard drive that was sent off to be looked at).

My new tumbler

oh happy day!

2008-01-25T19:47:00.001-08:00

Today I heard back from the guy that had our hard drive. He was able to find all the files! What a relief! We'll be getting it back on Monday...and once I figure out the dvd burner, everything will be backed up! lol!

it's been awhile...

2008-01-25T13:39:00.001-08:00

Wow…where has the time gone, eh? Sorry I’ve been gone so long…I’ve been meaning to post…life just kept getting in the way! Lol!

Everything’s good…life is motoring on. We had a wonderful Christmas…Santa brought N a new bike, which, according to N he wouldn’t trade anything for! Lol!

The kids have picked up skating. I got word in November that N’s class would be going on a skating field trip, so we made it a point to take the kids to the rink. N hadn’t been on skates since he was 2…their first time out, both kids did amazing! Lots of falling, but they would laugh it off and get right back to try again. We were very proud of them. The next week we went back, and again the kids did great. About 15 minutes before the end, N took a nasty fall on his face and got a bloody nose. I thought that would be the end of skating (and for a little while it was – he didn’t want to go on the field trip), but after he got his own pair of skates (that fit him, unlike the rental ones I had gotten him – did you know that skate sizes don’t match show sizes? I do now! Lol!), and a hockey helmet with a cage (and yes, he tested the helmet out in the store by banging his face on the ground! Lol!) he was good to go. He had a great field trip, and loves to skate. Last time we went to public skate, he stayed out on the ice 20 minutes after we got off!

L is coming along too, getting better without the brace. Next time I’ll try her in hockey skates and see if that helps.

We had computer problems earlier this month. We got a virus, and in the process of getting our computer fixed we upgraded some things…D took care of it, and I really don’t know what we have now! Lol! All I know that while I love our new set up (we grabbed the speakers off of N’s computer so the sound is a lot better now!), we lost some files during the upgrade. Of course, it was my files…the ones that contained every scrapbook page I’ve done, and all the photos that I had taken since last May. It’s heartbreaking. I had been meaning to burn everything to discs, but the task seemed overwhelming, so I kept putting it off. We’ve passed the hard drive over to a friend’s cousin and have our fingers crossed that he can recover those files.

Oh, and I finally got around to taking my road test to become a fully licensed driver! Woohoo!

Hoping to keep the blog more up to date…

IMG_5921

2007-12-10T08:39:00.001-08:00

IMG_5921, originally uploaded by noee01.

testing

one proud mama

2007-11-22T06:36:00.000-08:00

I am so proud of my kids...

N is doing wonderfully in school. Last month he finished the levels in home readers and was allowed to take home any book from the class for his daily homework. He told me that when he picks a book, he takes a look inside for words he knows and words he doesn't. Each day the kids bring home a set of flash cards with sight words on them. The practice them until they can read the words without sounding it out. N finished the last set yesterday, and today he starts back at the beginning, this time he has to spell out each word. First boy in his class!

After school yesterday we went out in the backyard to play baseball. The last time we did this (with just a foam ball and bat), he was hitting about 25% of the pitches. Yesterday it was more like 85%, with some really strong hits. And his throwing has improved too.

And Miss L...who is giving me a run for my money! This girl's mind works so quick, especially when it comes to disciplining. She finds some kind of loop hole, and it is so hard not to laugh. Anyways, yesterday she was drawing a get well card for her friend, while I made dinner. I suggested that she write her friend's name on the top. I spelled it out, and sure enough she wrote it! Not perfectly, but it was legible. Then she wrote her name, though I helped with the r and n.

bowling

2007-11-20T22:22:00.000-08:00

Earlier this month, N was invited to a birthday party at a local bowling alley. The kids bowled once, during the summer at a different party and had a great time, so I decided that Miss L and I would stay for the party, and bowl on our own. The birthday parents were kind enough to include us, so L and I ended up bowling with 2 of N's friends (remember, these boys are in grade 1).

At the end of 10 frames, I was third in points. Yup, the two boys beat me. Not only that, but the only reason I ended up with a few more points than L was because I managed 1 strike. The rest of the frames were pretty pathetic. L did much better than I did - considering at one point in the game I had to run down the land and rescue the ball as it stopped mid-lane.

And yes, I bowled with the gutter-things up. And still came in third...

I did bring my camera and get some photos of L. As you can imagine, the lighting in a bowling alley wasn't the best, and I had dressed the girl in all black (but she looked so cute with her hair off her face, and wearing her new bling shirt).

She had so much fun...she would get so into each frame. We really need to take the kids on a regular basis (N got pretty frustrated that he couldn't get a strike - and yes, he ended up with more points than me!).

pout

2007-11-14T22:57:00.000-08:00

Happy Halloween

2007-10-31T10:46:00.000-07:00

The kids are quite excited about tonight. We have a Raphael and a Fairy Princess (same dress as last year, and she's already decided to wear it next year! lol!)

Gotta run and get the ballerina to ballet. I'll get some photos up in the next day or two.

a quick update

2007-10-15T10:02:00.000-07:00

Not much new to to report...

N is doing a lot better on the puffer. He still coughs, but there has been a big improvement. I guess we'll wait and see what happens when he stops the medicine.

L is being a handful. Not sure what is going on, but these last few days have been trying.

I'm busy getting the house ready for when I go away next week. Clothes sorted and schedules written out for D. Looking forward to 4 days of R&R.

updates....

2007-10-03T09:32:00.000-07:00

Ok, so here it is, the long overdue post. I apologize for not being better at keeping this thing updated.

The Boy –

He’s doing great in school, adjusting well, though he still thinks that kindergarten is more fun. And today he wished that if was Sunday school instead of regular school, because Sunday school is shorter. Lol!. His reading is coming along nicely, and most important is that he is enjoying the reading. He forgot his planner and book at school yesterday, and was so worried about getting a day behind in his reading. Luckily we went right back to the school and were able to pick it up. He’s on level 14 now.

He’s really enjoying soccer. They’ve had 2 games so far, and the boys are coming along. Because this team was put together at the last minute, there are 6 and 7 year old boys on it, so that they play in the U8 division. (if it was just boys from N’s birth year, they would be in U7). So, the teams they play are all bigger (ok, just by a year, but still! They seem huge! Lol!), and have been playing for a year or more already. N’s doing good – he’s able to follow in the game, and usually knows what’s going on. I brought the camera for the first game and I’ll include some photos. (the focus isn’t that great – need more practice with the action shots!). I should have brought the camera for the last game, because N got to play goal. He’s wanted to play for a while, so he was thrilled. He did great!

He’s had a persistent cough for the last few months, and he just couldn’t get rid of it. I took him to the clinic a few weeks ago, and the doctor suggested giving him a anti-histamine for a week. That wasn’t working, so we brought him back yesterday. This doctor prescribed a steroid puffer. So, we’ll see how that goes. Hopefully this won’t need to be a permanent thing for him.

The Girl-

She’s still going to preschool, and still sheds some tears. When I pick her up from school, and on the off days, she was so positive about it. Loved going, loved her teacher. But the mornings of preschool, there would be tears, one morning she just begged me not to take her. Usually when we get there, she’s fine and I stay for the first 10 minutes. I leave after circle time, and sometimes she cries, and other times she tells me where the door is. The times that she does cry, her teacher, Mrs D, is right there with her. She distracts her, and within 30 seconds, L has stopped crying (I know because I wait and listen outside the door!).

She is just loving ballet. It is so cute to watch her. I’ll have to try and remember to bring my camera and get some more photos.

She had her first x-rays 2 weeks ago. While playing with a friend, her elbow got dislocated. The doctor was able to pop it back in, but we still went for the x-rays to make sure it went back in ok.

Me-

I’m good. I’m waking up at 4:45 every morning (crazy, eh? I'm in bed before 10 these days...the last couple of nights I've been asleep well before 9!) to get to the clubhouse for a workout. I do it 5 days a week, and I try to get in on Sundays too. I’ve been swimming twice a week since L has been in preschool. I am by no means good at swimming – I do my own ‘hybrid’ stroke, but I am happy with my progress. My endurance is definitely up since I first started. It may be slow, but at least it’s something. D swims laps around me – literally! He swims with me on Tuesdays, and boy he can swim!

I’m looking forward to my get away this month. I’ll miss the kids and D, of course, but I could use some R&R. A couple days of laying by a pool should do it! Lots to do before then, though. I can’t believe how full our calendar is now.

Hopefully it won’t be so long until my next post…

And his cheerleader...

I'm here!

2007-09-25T06:28:00.000-07:00

Yikes! I haven't been doing a very good job with the blog, have I? I've just found these days to be so busy, and with waking up at 4:45 to get a workout in (yup, going on 4 weeks now! Yay me!), I hardly see past 10pm. Last night I was in bed before 9!

I do have so much to post about, so I will try very hard to get that done soon!

One more thing...Lynne, if you see this...Happy Birthday! Hope you have a wonderful day with your family!

I'm here

2007-09-16T21:23:00.001-07:00

Sorry I haven't been posting so much...the lazy days of summer have been replaced with the busy days of fall! Our calendar is filling up!

Wednesday, Miss L had ballet, with the same teacher she had in the summer. This time, her friend is in the class too! They looked so cute! One melt-your-heart moment was when the teacher was taking attendance, and she got to L's friend. L just reached up and patted her friend on the back!

Thursday was the 2nd day of preschool. I knew as soon as we got off the elevator that it wouldn't go as smoothly has the first. She just had this worried look on her face. Sure enough, as soon as we got in the door, the tears started. I was able to get her calmed down, and we sat on the carpet together. She was chosen to do the weather, which made her so happy! Once she was settled into a craft, I was able to leave. There were one or 2 tears while I was gone, but nothing major.

Friday we had some friends over...

Saturday, a friend and I took the kids to a local fair. Had a wonderful time - the kids made kites. And they did a wonderful job flying them. After dinner, D and I took the kids out to a field by our house, and they flew the kites some more. Both kids did awesome! (I do have some pics, but haven't proofed them yet).

Here are a few from Wednesday...

2007-09-11T20:20:00.000-07:00

She did it! Miss L had her first day at preschool.

As we walked into the classroom, she grabbed my arm and kissed it – I just knew that she would be ok. We hung up her bag and she sat on the carpet for attendance. When Mrs D. called her name, she just sat there, so I had to step in! Once the class got underway, she got right into it. She was happy to be at the craft table, painting an apple. D went to say bye and tell her we were leaving, and she said (in an annoyed voice) ‘I know!’. We’ve only gone over this 100 times!

She did cry a little, missing us about halfway through. The teacher just walked her around the class and helped her find a toy and settle down.

All in all, a great day!

Tomorrow, ballet starts!

2007-09-10T21:07:00.001-07:00

Miss L and I headed down to Granville Island today for a girls day. We met up with my mom. Missy had her hair cut (only her 2^nd real hair cut – we’ve trimmed the back before). She loves this place because they have a tv and Dora playing. L was so zoned out while the lady cut her hair I thought she was going to fall asleep! After her hair appointment we walked around, and through the market.

I love the market there, and perhaps it is a good idea I don’t go very often. That place is full of the yummiest looking food! From fresh produce, to meat and seafood, fresh pasta – anything you can imagine! Not to mention the sweets! Cakes and cookies and pies…oh my!

L was just in awe….at the produce! She picked out a plum and a yellow tomato – she had never seen one before. Then she spied “little baby peppers”, so she chose a red one. Can’t really say no when it comes to those things, eh?

So tomorrow is the big day for L….first day of preschool! I get to pack 2 bags! Lol! I have to plan out her clothes – make sure she is wearing ‘easy’ pants. We had picked out pants and a long sleeve shirt for her to wear, but now that it’s summer weather again, I have to re-think that.

We’ll see if her brave talk pans out…or will I stay the whole class? Lol! (I’d really like to swim if I can…I am starting to see results from my early morning workouts..Woohoo!)

A few photos from today…

Little Miss Independent...

Her market goodies...

First Practice

2007-09-07T06:44:00.000-07:00

went well! N had fun...his coach and the other boys all seemed nice. They have weekly practices, and in a few weeks, the games start (one game per weekend).

The boys got their uniforms (shirt and socks...shorts are still coming). I'll get a photo next time he's all dressed up.

Now, if only he could leave the grass alone and stop picking it! lol!

He survived!

2007-09-06T06:17:00.000-07:00

First day of school, that is.

He enjoyed it, though he did find it a little long. He'll get used to that soon enough. He likes his teacher, and I am anxious to properly meet her - guess that's what Meet the Teacher night is for! lol!

I did ok. Had some friends over for tea, and that helped. It was weird around 11, though, when I would normally leave to go get him. Lunch was so quiet with just L and I. I had all the dinner prep done by 2....guess it will take me a day or two to get used to it as well!

I received a call from his soccer coach last night. Seems like a nice guy - no previous coaching experience, but he seems to enjoy working with kids. Guess it goes hand in hand with our lack of soccer experience! The boys have their first practice tonight, and the season starts in a few weeks. They get their uniforms tonight too! And I have to say, N is just over-the-moon excited about the team name! It's perfect for him!

So, I guess I am a soccer mom now...(just need the mini van to go with it! lol!)

And so it begins...

2007-09-04T19:56:00.001-07:00

A new school year, a fresh start, a new beginning with new routines. Feels like Jan 1^st! lol!

N had his first day of grade 1 today. We went last week to check out the class list and such. I had no knowledge of any of the grade 1 teachers, so there was no hoping for (or against) one particular teacher. He’s in a straight grade 1 class off 22 (I think). There are 5 kids from his K class in with him, which is good for the familiarity, but he also gets the opportunity to meet new kids. His teacher, Ms P., seems nice and fun. I heard good things about her today, though she can be strict – but with N, that’s a good thing. He tends to go off task.

So we went today, just for an hour. I really felt unprepared. A few months before kindergarten started, there was a Parent Orientation, where we could meet the teachers and receive an overview of sorts. I knew to bring a second pair of shoes for inside the class, what kinds of things worked best for snack. I didn’t realize that the indoor shoe policy was a school-wide one, until N announced he needed a pair (and I read through the newsletter! That helps, eh?). So off we went to buy him shoes (an ordeal in itself, let me tell you!). In K, all I had to do was throw some fruit or a granola bar in his bag, and he was set. We were asked not to send any beverages. Not sure if that’s still the same in grade 1…plus I need to pack a snack and lunch! (wow, just me and the Miss for lunch now…). Guess it will be trial and error figuring out how much he needs…

And he’ll be gone all….day….long. I think this is where I am having the most trouble. In K, we dropped him off, came home, and before I knew it, it was time to pick him up. I worry with how he’ll do with the whole day thing. He found soccer camp (a mere 3 hours) long. How will he do? I am sure that he’ll adjust…

Miss L doesn’t start her new programs until next week…so at least I have a week to ease into full day school before I throw PS and Ballet into the mix (and soccer whenever that starts up! Oye!).

D starts new work tomorrow, at a new depot. Lots of change for him…hopefully this schedule will be easier to adjust to then his summer work.

As for me, I am looking forward to getting back into a routine of sorts. We’ve had a lazy summer, and I need the routine to keep me on track. I started going to the clubhouse gym every morning. I find I need to do it first thing in the morning, or I have no motivation for it. That means waking up before everyone else, and getting it done. Feels good, though. Hopefully, once Missy is in preschool, I can add swimming into my activities.

I’ll end it here, with a recent one of L…this is so typically her, tongue hanging out in concentration! (I know it’s not technically perfect – she was running towards me, concentrating on running along the speed bump)

He's in!

2007-09-03T09:47:00.000-07:00

Woohoo!

D's dropping off the registration right now.

He'll be playing with 6 and 7 year olds on an U8 team (usually it's one birth year per team, but this team is combined). From the sounds of it, it is pretty much half and half for '00 and '01 boys, and most have no previous experience. The teams they will be playing will be 7 year olds. There will be one practice during the week (indoors!) and one game on the weekend (outside).

Guess I'm a soccer mom!

Fingers crossed...

2007-09-02T22:00:00.000-07:00

I came home to an email from the registrar of the soccer club. Seems they are trying to get another team together. At last count they had 9 players confirmed, and needed 1-3 more. I've emailed back (and called) to state that we are interested, but not heard back.

The registration is filled out and waiting to be dropped off tomorrow morning. Guess we'll find out then!

More soccer photos

2007-08-30T19:42:00.000-07:00

These have just been cropped/sized for web (except the last one that I did a wee bit of editing to)

Thanks to a tip

2007-08-25T22:58:00.000-07:00

from a friend, N is signed up for 7 weeks of indoor soccer starting in September.

Thanks Rhonda!

World Cup Day

2007-08-24T22:23:00.000-07:00

It was World Cup today at camp, aka the last day. N was mistaken, he was on team Korea, but he got the color right at least, so he was good to go in his new blue outfit.

They warmed up with some drills, then played 3 games. N followed along with the games ok, but there were a few times that you could tell he wasn't paying attention to the play. Maybe it's good that he can't get on a team this year - not sure if he has the attention span needed. Or maybe a coach that gets on his case a little more. That was perhaps my only complaint with this camp - there could have been more coaches to keep the younger kids focused. N is a daydreamer, and if there is too much talking or waiting for his turn, his mind wanders.

Of course I took photos - downloading as I speak...er, type I should say. lol. I'll have them posted soon.

Funny little story...at the beginning of the day, the parents were allowed on the field to take photos, and the coaches had the teams together for group shots. I was standing around when I was approached by another mom. She explained that her camera was broken, and asked if I could get some photos of her son. She offered to pay for the negatives - I did explain it was digital. We swapped phone numbers so she could get an email addy to me. I guess with that honkin' white lens I can't blend into the background anymore!

__________

Super sweet L moment yesterday. We talk a lot about her names, and how her middle name is so special (named after her great grandmother). I'll ask if she wants me to call her that and she says yes. She knows my first 2 names. Yesterday, out of the blue, I gave her a hug and said "I love you A". And without missing a beat, she said "I love you J".

Go Italy!

2007-08-23T23:35:00.000-07:00

It's World Cup tomorrow, and I am cheering for Italy!

It's the final day of soccer camp, and the kids take part in World Cup. Parents are encouraged to stay the entire time to watch, so I am looking forward to that.

_____________

Took a trip down memory lane tonight...

We finally got our camera repaired (just picked it up today, actually), so in preparation of tomorrow I went through the tapes to see if I had room on one to shoot the soccer with. Now, we (or I should say, *I*) have been very lax in recording things since Miss L came around. Call it second child syndrome I guess. N has dozens of tapes of his early childhood. But, she probably has 10 times more still photos, so hopefully it balances out. :)

I started going through the unmarked tapes, to see which one I could use. Wow...seeing those random scenes of our lives flash before me on the screen...A 2 year old N, hunting for Easter Eggs (oh, how they were similar at that age!), just after L's birth when N sang and kissed her, the first time he held her...to an almost 4 year old boy learning to ride his bike with training wheels, while Miss L, not even a year old, running after him....with chubby arms, full of rolls. Wow, tears streamed down my face. I really hope to get back into taking more video of the kids, to remember the everyday things about them.

Soccer Boy

2007-08-22T22:14:00.000-07:00

N has been having a great time at soccer camp this week.

Here are some photos...

(wish I had gotten more of the ball in this shot)

How cute is he in those cleats and shin pads..shh..don't tell him I used the word cute!

He's really enjoying it, and I was all set to get him registered for a team this year. Unfortunately, the club I wanted him in is full. Who knew that soccer registration starts in the spring? opps! Not sure what other options we have, other than waiting until next year.

Birthday photos and more

2007-08-21T21:23:00.002-07:00

Here are some photos from N's party. All I did was resize them, so excuse the lighting and such.

____________

This week he's in soccer camp and liking it. He got a new ball, cleats and shin pads for the week. I'll have some photos soon.

_______________

Miss L is working on a few things, and is so excited to be going to preschool and ballet soon. Our weeks are going to get pretty busy in September, between school, preschool and ballet. I'm actually looking forward to it. I need some routine back in our lives!

Just a quick note

2007-08-13T20:36:00.000-07:00

We had N's party yesterday at a gymnastics place close by. I think all the kids had a great time! I've got over 100 photos to go through, so I'll share some over the next few days.

just a few photos

2007-08-08T23:23:00.000-07:00

sorry...

2007-08-07T12:38:00.001-07:00

(wrote this last night)

Sorry it’s been so long…I can’t believe that it’s already August and tomorrow my boy…my baby…wakes up as a 6 year old! He’s currently sleeping downstairs in the family room, in his best fort yet – one made by Daddy (who was very into forts when he was a boy). I can probably count on one hand the number of nights that N has slept in his bed this summer…lol!

We’ve definitely fallen into the lazy days of summer. We’ve had outings to the water park and water slides (the kids loved that! So did I, actually!). But the last few weeks have been pretty mellow. Good thing too, since August is busy and I know it will fly right on by. Between birthdays and parties and soccer camp and me stressing out over September 4 – when N goes back to school – and September 11 – when Miss L starts preschool – I know the next 4 weeks will fly by.

In more recent news, my mom and I spent a nice evening out last Saturday watching the Celebration of Lights Firework Finale. On the way to the fireworks I wanted to stop by the camera store to pick up a cable release for my camera. Mom decided that Christmas would come a few months early for me (and really, I think she’s covered the next decade of Christmases! Lol!) by treating my to this

A Canon 30-200L f4 lens. What a beauty! Wow…I thought if would be many years before I owned an L lens. It’s taking getting used to – the zoom and the weight. I am truly a lucky girl!

We headed up to Cyprus lookout to catch the show. Not many people have the patience to sit around for hours like Mom does, so I knew she would be the perfect companion. We brought dinner, books and chairs…had a great time.

The show started a little early, when we heard someone talking about seeing bears. Sure enough, down the hill we spotted a mama bear and 3 cubs. It’s the closest I’ve ever been a bear in the wild, and I was a little freaked out! Awesome sight, though.

Night fell and the crowds grew.

Canada place

The fireworks show was great – it was the finale, so all three countries performed (China, Canada and Spain – home county won, Woohoo!). There wasn’t much wind, so most of show was obscured by smoke. I got some shots though – don’t think they turned out that bad. Taken with my new lens, of course!

It’s late, and I best be going. I’ll work on blogging more often…promise!

I know...

2007-08-06T23:55:00.001-07:00

it's been so long...sorry!

I have a whole post ready to go, but blogger is being a pain with loading photos and it's midnight. So, I'll get it done tomorrow, ok? Promise!

dance

2007-07-21T23:39:00.001-07:00

like no one is watching...

(credits can be seen here)

My boy

2007-07-19T23:27:00.000-07:00

It's not too often I get photos of him (and yes it took some deal making - tonight he got to take some photos with my 'big' camera if I took some of him...lol! Whatever works, right?)

Can you handle a few more? lol!

2007-07-19T17:34:00.000-07:00

Miss L had her last class today, and she did fabulous! Great listening, and no one complained about hands being held too tight!

The class is on again in August - another 3 days in a row. Then, in September, it starts up on a weekly basis for 4 months. We'll definitely look into signing her back up! She loved it!

Must have been the shoes

2007-07-18T20:55:00.001-07:00

Miss L had her second of 3 ballet classes today. Wow, what a difference!

Before class, we went and bought her a pair of ballet shoes, which she absolutely adores! She was a little shy at the beginning of class, and ran back to me a few times (but then would get upset when the other girls would move and take her spot in the circle lol!). Bad mom that I am, I admit, I did tell her that if she didn't join the class we would take her shoes back. Eek! Horrible, eh? But it worked! She joined in the class and followed direction. She spoke to the teacher, though most of the time when it wasn't her turn. The teacher was amazed at the change! I think she was a little too excited, though, because a couple of the girls said L was holding their hands too tight! Opps!

And yes, I did have tears in my eyes watching her today.

When we got home, and I uploaded the photos to the computer, she sat on my lap and we looked at them all. In each photo, she pointed out her shoes.

(a lot of the photos are out of focus - I had my 50mm lens, so no zoom, and a lot of the times I was on the other side of the gym from her. Excuse the technical aspects of these! lol!)

I think I'll print this one for her room

Tip-toe walk with rainbows (arm movements)

Blowing up the balloon (to make the circle bigger)

Popping the balloon.

Marching...

some more flowers

2007-07-17T20:48:00.000-07:00

haven't posted any for a while

My little ballerina

2007-07-17T20:30:00.000-07:00

Seems Miss L takes right after her brother when it comes to class/groups like this. All the brave talk before hand about not being shy is for naught. lol!

She certainly looked the part...in her cute Dora ballet outfit. But when class started, Missy wouldn't keep her hands off of me, and if the teacher spoke to her, her head went right into my lap. She finally did take part, in the last 10 minutes of class, with me holding her hand.

She says tomorrow will be different, but who knows. Maybe now that she as an idea of what to expect? Hopefully I can get some better photos tomorrow...(and we will be buying ballet shoes tomorrow morning as she was the only girl without.)

Wow! What a difference a week makes!

2007-07-16T19:31:00.000-07:00

All this week, Miss L has been going to sleep without any nanas...and, she has even been going to sleep on her own! Yup, I sit with her for a few moments, then leave while she is awake! It's not that easy every night, but we are getting there! Saturday night, she slept 12 hours straight! Wow! And yes, when I woke up the next morning I went to see if she was still breathing!

She has her first of 3 ballet classes tomorrow. She's already got her outfit picked out! Should be cute!

The kids are watching N's newest interests....the Discovery Channel! Dirty Jobs is on, and the kids are enjoying it. Apparently next week is Shark Week...N can't wait!

Day 3 of being 3

2007-07-11T21:33:00.000-07:00

went pretty well! Miss L even made it to bed without asking for you-know-what.

Of course, she's been up crying every 5-10 minutes, but I think that has to do with the heat. Poor thing can't settle. I know what it feels like - I've been sleeping on the couch downstairs!

Poor N got stung by a bee - opps, sorry, a wasp tonight. I think he was stung yesterday too. Poor guy, eh?

We are back to the lake tomorrow, so I must get my act together and get stuff ready.

On her second day of being 3

2007-07-10T22:01:00.000-07:00

Miss L said to me, upon waking up,

'I wish I was still 2'.

LOL!

Of course it had to do with the fact that now that she is 3, there is no more nanas. She had quite the breakdown last night, before bedtime. It took some time, but I was able to calm her down and get her asleep. She woke up at 4, asking for nanas, but went right back to sleep. She asked again in the morning.

Tonight was better. She asked once or twice, but I sat on her bed while she fell asleep, and she did ok. I'm pretty surprised, but very relieved that this seems to be going somewhat smoothly.

No new photos for now, and I must make this entry short - it is much too hot to be upstairs. I think I'll go down and read for bit, and wait for a phone call from my neighbor with an update on the baby bird that fell out of the nest.

a few more...

2007-07-09T23:23:00.000-07:00

She's 3!

2007-07-09T16:22:00.000-07:00

Woohoo! Though, she still goes back and forth on wanting to be 2 again!

We had a great day today...her friends came over for a party. Hotdogs and cupcakes - not much, but everyone had fun!

Here's 2 from yesterday

(too bad her eyes are closed...)

3 years ago today

2007-07-08T23:16:00.000-07:00

I was 9 days overdue with L. I had gone to the hospital in the morning for a non-stress test – which I was told would take 20-40 minutes. It was an hour and a half before the tech lady was happy with the results. (L was not a morning baby, but she sure kicked up a fuss at night!). The OB on call was all set to have my in for an induction (mind you, this was without ever meeting me!) I went to see my midwife in the afternoon, and she had no concerns. She did a ‘sweep’ to help get things going, and we planned another non stress test for the morning, to keep up with procedure. I remember being a little worried that I was getting close to the cut-off for a homebirth, but not too worried. Contractions started that evening, though nothing major. I woke up the next morning with more contractions, but I still drank the castor oil, apricot nectar and almond butter concoction recommended by my midwife – ugh…still can’t think of apricots without gagging. This non-stress test went a little better, and there was a different OB on call. He, again without meeting me, decided I would be ok to go the weekend, but wanted to see me back there on Monday. The whole time at the hospital, I didn’t have any contractions. They didn’t start up again until after I left.

Everyone gathered at our house in the afternoon, and Miss L made her appearance at 7pm. It was such an incredible experience. I was so happy that I had a chosen a home birth, and would do it again in a heartbeat – if we have more.

--------

We had a wonderful day today, celebrating L’s birthday with family. She got spoiled, with lots of clothes…some of the cutest I’ve seen. She also received 2 ballet outfits and some fun things for her bike. Tomorrow her friends come to party!

I’ll try to get some photos up soon!

reality is starting to sink in

2007-07-07T17:39:00.000-07:00

My baby is turning 3 in a few days...and she's the one having problems with it! lol!

For the last little while, we've talked up being 3. All the fun stuff she'll get to do, like preschool in September and ballet (she's signed up for a 3 day class this month). How she'll be such a big girl. She seemed really excited about it all.

We've also talked about no more na-nas at 3. She seemed ok with that.

Today, she told me she doesn't want to turn 3. Hmmm....wonder why? lol! She was all ready to cancel her little party. But now, she's walking around the house, with a damp cloth, cleaning the walls so the house looks beautiful for her party.

She's still excited about preschool and ballet. I guess we'll find out on Monday night what's going on with the na-nas. I doubt it will be as easy as her turning 3 to stop, but I've got my fingers crossed.

ahh....quiet

2007-07-06T22:09:00.000-07:00

Dryer is fixed! Woohoo!

A few more from L, in Whistler (and yes, I have some photos of N! I'll work on those later - it's late and I need to get working on a layout.)

A layout I did last week...
if you want to know how much I love you, count the waves - unknown

Murphy's Law

2007-07-06T11:44:00.000-07:00

My dryer has been making this awful squeaking noise for the last little while. I am surprised the neighbor's haven't complained yet. Really, it's enough to make someone go mad.

I called the repair place on Tuesday, and set up a time for Thursday afternoon. Then, plans to go to the lake were made, and I rescheduled for today. Yesterday morning, while getting ready to go to the lake, I threw some clothes in the dryer (that were still damp from being hung to dry). What a surprise - no squeaking! When we got home, I did another load, and again, no noise. What a relief! When the repair guy called this morning to confirm a time, I explained what had happened, and that he didn't need to come. While I was talking to him, I turned on the dryer as a last check. He understood (hey, better the money in my pocket, right?) and we spoke for a few more minutes.

I hung up the phone.

Squeak....squeak....

Seriously, not even 5 seconds later the squeaking was back. I called him right back, and we had a little laugh.

Now I sit here waiting for him to come, hoping it's not a huge repair.

If needed, I could probably sell the machine to some military to use as a torture device.

here's 2

2007-07-05T23:55:00.000-07:00

of Miss L from Whistler...

(the kids and I spent the day at the lake with some great friends. had a wonderful time, but I am just exhausted!)

home from Whistler

2007-07-04T21:58:00.000-07:00

We had a great time up in Whistler with some family. Lots of walking around! We made it up to Pemberton for a visit with friends and our annual trip to the farm, though that had to be cut short due to mosquitoes! They were crazy-bad! My legs are covered in bites.

I;ll share some photos over the next few days. The kids and I are heading to the lake with some friends tomorrow, and I need to pack.

Not much new going on

2007-06-29T20:49:00.000-07:00

The kids and I have been staying close to home this week, getting used to D's new work schedule. The bus has been moved back to it's original route, which is about 5 minutes closer. The kids hadn't been on a bus for a while, and we had library books due back, so we headed out. The kids have signed up for the Summer Reading Club, so today they got their first sticker (since they had read 7 days. After they read 49 days, they get a medal). So, after that, we had dinner out (well, Mcd's so nothing fancy!). Then home - all this without bringing the stroller! yay!

When we did get home, we saw the moving truck, unloading boxes into the house where is best bud had lived. I commented that it would be weird seeing other people living there, and N was worried that he may run into their house by mistake.

Missy is signed up for ballet. Well, three days of it - guess this will be a good introduction for her. She'll definitely have a tutu!

Here's a layout I did last weekcredits can be seen here

Things will be quiet around here for a few days. We leave Sunday morning for 2 days in Whistler.

Sharing 2 projects

2007-06-26T21:04:00.000-07:00

that have been in the back of my mind for some time - feels good to get them done.

1. I've wanted to do a tumbler for ever it seems, ever since I started digital scrapbooking. I picked up the template from Penny at The Digi Shoppe and used photos from our trip to Punta Cana (yes, still have a ton of those photos to go through! lol!)

Here's what it looks like
And in the tumbler
I'm pretty happy with how it turned out, though next time I won't put anything along the edges. The template wasn't quite the same size needed to fit the tumbler, so the edges overlap. No big deal, because at $2.99 for the 8x10 print, I can change it up whenever I like.

2. As the end of school approached I beagan thinking of what to give N's teacher as a thank you gift. She's been teaching for over 40 years, so I knew a mug was out of the question lol! I realized this would be a great excuse to try and make some blank greeting cards. I chose a flower photo that I had taken at Stewart House, while on a class field trip (though I forgot to mention that to the teacher - too bad, because I am sure she would have appreciated that.). I made 6 greeting cards that I left blank. I really like how these turned out.

I definitely have more ideas swirling through my head in regards to the greeting cards. Exciting!

I can't believe

2007-06-26T06:50:00.000-07:00

that I am about to take N to kindergarten for the last time. This year has gone by so fast!

The Graduate

2007-06-22T14:22:00.000-07:00

We're pretty proud of him...

And this is post

2007-06-22T06:52:00.000-07:00

#100! Woohoo! (Imagine confetti and balloons falling from the ceiling! lol!)

Today is N's kindergarten graduation. Wow...I can't believe the school year has gone so quickly. I think back to last September - and what he can do now. How far he's come in his drawing and reading (it's really amazing to hear him read! Love it!). I know he'll miss school, seeing his friends every day, having his things to do (he is becoming so independent these last few months). He's excited about grade 1 in the fall, but I think he'll be a little disappointed that it's more work and less play (he's already asked if they have Centers in grade 1! lol!)

Any bets on if I'll cry today? I know I will. I've got the camera battery charged up, the memory card emptied, and I am ready to go.

Not so ready to have a Grade 1 child, but I'll get there...

A new look and a new layout

2007-06-21T06:40:00.000-07:00

Thought it was time to spruce things up around here...what do you think?

I don't think I posted this layout here yet...I did it for my current quote and lyric challenge at TDS.

D and I at the Police concert last month...

(credits can be seen here)

Sorry this is a few days late…

2007-06-20T13:01:00.000-07:00

We took L to the pediatric dentist on Thursday, who took one look at her tooth and said ‘oh yeah, we see this all the time’. Lol! We’re going to take a wait and see approach, and as long as the tooth doesn’t get infected it should be ok. No surgery like the first dentist said…phew! The staff were really good, and I think we’ll continue taking her (and possibly N) there. Certainly won’t be going back to that first guy!

Poor N got some bad news on Friday. Beside the school was a dirt area, with dirt piles and such that the kids had made into a bike park. The city was actually considering turning it into a proper bike path, but last we heard those plans were cancelled. Not sure what is going in there now, but on Friday, the big digger thing (lol…like my correct terminology!) was out, and all the dirt was removed. N was heartbroken! (We’ve since been back, and the city has put up a sign with the plans…guess what they are putting in? A bocce ball field…ugh.)

We are down to the last few days of school…N’s last day is Tuesday. He has a graduation ceremony (something small in the classroom) on Friday. I’m sure there will be a few tears.

And I registered Miss L for preschool! Eek! She’ll be going twice a week, in the mornings, 2 hours each class. She’s excited to buy a purple lunch box. Not quite sure how she’ll handle the actual preschool part, but I’ll be happy to stay and help out like we did with N. And, if she does fine, that’s 4 whole hours to myself each week!

Miss L...

2007-06-13T13:34:00.000-07:00

has an appointment with the pediatric dentist tomorrow morning.

We went to the office by our house this morning, and due to her age the dentist we saw recommended that we see the pediatric dentist. He also mentioned nerve damage and putting her under. I really hope we don't have to go that route, but we'll see tomorrow.

Tree climbing boy

2007-06-13T06:38:00.000-07:00

(click here for credits)

no tooth update

2007-06-12T06:47:00.000-07:00

After we took N to school, L and I walked over to the 2 new dentist offices. Both we closed - one for the day, and one for the morning. We'll try again today.

Mom, if you are reading...I'm thinking of you today. Enjoy your lunch and call me when you have a moment.

together

2007-06-11T09:34:00.000-07:00

Kellie posted a Random Inspiration on the Digi Shoppe blog (http://www.thedigishoppe.com/blog/) and here is my layout for it...

(as usual credits can be seen here)

(ps...this is my second post of the day, so keep reading!)