Answering Friday Questions

Mattsmom said...
On a scale of 1-10 how STINKIN' EXCITED are you to be having a baby this year?With just 10 weeks to go, are you getting nervous? Anxious? Or just happy?

Mattsmom:

I'm at about a 9.5 right now with my excitedness. I'm getting really anxious about the things I've yet to get done, but really, I'm just very happy and excited! :)

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Anne/kq said...
Have you bought them MATCHING OUTFITS YET??? BUAHAHAHAHAHA! (I'm so evil. I'm gonna dress my kids in matching clothes for ever. Does that qualify as evil, if it's really cute?)

Anne:

Matching outfits?? I honestly hadn't even thought about it (maybe it's the age-gap I've got going on....but would it still be cute with an 8 year difference?)

If I say you're evil, will you still love me? ;) (I actually think matching outfits are WAY cute, but I really hadn't even thought about doing that with Cam and the baby.....hmmmmm....now you've got me thinking.....)

Sickies Here and GONE!! (I hope!)

I've been a miserable mess all weekend long. But I didn't have time to wallow in my sickness....I had to do things, and it wasn't fun.

Sleeping wasn't easy either....I found that I was sweaty and literally STICKING to my sheets. I thought only menopausal women did that!! YIKES!! The thing that made it worse was that I was FREEZING with all that sweating going on, so I HAD to have the blankies covering me. Honestly, it was NOT something I hope to ever do again!

I ended up going to church on Sunday so I could bolster our ward choir's poor little alto section, there's a whole 2 of us, and I think we did pretty well for our small, sicky numbers.

Then I spent all day yesterday recovering, and it completely helped!! I was feeling MUCH better (although my lungs need to be hacked up occasionally....) and I was able to do the things that I'm SUPPOSED to do today.

Cam has been such a trooper. He's been entertaining himself rather well, considering that mommy AND daddy were both laid up with the flu. He even prayed for us many times! (Thanks, buddy!)

Last night, on a random whim, Steve picked up my little "foldy" pillow off of my side of the bed. (I MUST sleep with this little extra pillow....don't ask me why!) And promptly threw it back down pronouncing, "Peeeew!" upon my lovey!

I asked him what it smelled like (thinking he'd respond, sweat or sick smell...something that he could say was stinky and worthy of the pronouncement.)

Then he said, in a matter-of-fact way, "It smells like your head!"

Uh, thanks honey! Maybe I need some better smelling shampoo! :P

Free For All Friday

It's Free For All Friday!

If you want to ask me a question -- and anything goes -- here's your chance. You can ask about whatever you wish, no holds barred. I'll either answer honestly, or I'll tell you that I won't answer.

(And just in case you think I've been slacking when it comes to my blog, you're right. I've been fighting off the crud all week! Cam told me yesterday, "Mama, you don't sound so good!"
Gee, thanks, child!!)

Answers

Deanna said...
Um...What is your favorite part about spring? and Two, what are you looking forward to most this comming week?

Deanna:

My favorite part of spring is the weather. It's SO nice...not too hot, not too cold, JUST right! (I feel like a fairy tale character saying that!)

I'm looking forward to relaxing this next week. I do have to babysit, but otherwise, I don't have to worry about Cam in school...just doing his regular after school stuff! (Oh, and no scouts...WOO HOO!)

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One Scrappy Gal said...
When you shoot a mime, should you use a silencer?

What is one of your all time favorite books? I'm in a literary slump right now...

Scrappy:

If I were to shoot a mime, I'd probably NOT use a silencer....who would care!? ;)

I can't think of just one book that's my all time favorite. Really, I love any and all fluff books. (Not the ones that make you think....just ones that are easily read for fun!) I guess I can't quite answer that one!

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Melzie said...
I wasn't home... but-- I wante dto let you know, I waved to you on our way thru IDF. Joe told me to call-- but I was so crabby.... forgive me?!

Melzie:

OF COURSE, I forgive you!! I just hope you had a ball on your trip!!

Crazy Dreams and Little Sleep

That's it for my "bad" news. :) I'm having insanely crazy dreams....ones where there's a psycho ghost baby who is EVIL, but I'm the only one who believes it. So I'm forced to take care of it. (This "ghost baby" was found in Cam's school....what she was doing there no one knows...) I've also dreamt that while Cameron and I went 4-wheeling in the middle of nowhere I ran across my parents. We had run out of gas, and were walking when we saw a castle. They were staying in the castle, that was modernly furnished on the inside, but after a quick peek, the whole castle collapsed with them inside of it. Cam instantly became super-heroey and saved them. Then that same night, I dream that I'm telling my mom about the castle dream. I even show her where the castle was supposed to have been.

Yes, dreams plague me! I get so deeply into my dreams that I sometimes forget where I am when I wake up.

On top of this, my hips are spreading, which causes me constant pain! Finding a comfortable position is not easy, and when I do find that PERFECT spot, Steve will invariably roll toward me and snore in my face or ear, depending on the side I'm sleeping on.

Such fun! :P

On a happier note, I saw my doctor and she's proclaiming that everything is going well. I have normal-ish blood pressure (top number was SLIGHTLY high...only 4 points up...), decent blood sugars, we're not worrying about the ketones, and I had a side-ache checked out (I worried it might be kidney problems....) and there was nothing to worry about....probably just the hip pain or just normal aches of pregnancy.

The baby is doing well. He's a mover. He likes to move VERY low in my belly. In places where Cameron just CANNOT feel! (Although he tries...) When the doctor measured my tummy, she said he's definitely NOT small. I guess that's good!

Now I wait a few more weeks. Then I'll be doing the weekly visits and more monitoring! As long as we get a healthy baby, I'm all for doing whatever it takes!

(OH, and I did NOT schedule the c-section date yet....I have yet to register with the hospital, and I think that COULD be an important factor....)

On another doctor related note, I found out that we may have to make a day-trip to Salt Lake next week for an NF1 study Cam is participating in. We thought we were finished until October, but I guess they need to do some more testing on the boy. *sigh* At least I'll get to see my study-coordinator friend, who I JUST told I was pregnant! :D

Countdown

At church last Sunday I had probably 10 people come up to me and ask when I was going to have this baby. TEN!! (I didn't think I looked THAT miserable!) And happily I could announce that I have 3 months left. In the same thought bubble, I realized, "HOLY COW!! I only have 3 months to get things ready for another baby at my house! I'm NOT ready for this!!"

Happily I can say that we DO have a lot accomplished:

• crib and bedding.
• general clothing.
• car seats.
• Boppie. (The COOLEST thing ever!)
• burp cloths...although, they're in my downstairs hole....SOMEWHERE!
• a bouncy seat.
• extra blankets.
• high chair.
• play pen. (Which for the first few months will double as the bassinet.)

BUT there is SO much more that I need to get before I feel like I'm ready. I'm beginning to feel overwhelmed, but in a good way.

Things I've yet to get:

• swing.
• jumper chair (not necessary IMMEDIATELY, but would be nice for when he gets bigger.)
• diapers and wipes.
• air conditioning for the upstairs, where I feel I'll be spending the majority of my time.
• bottles (not that I want to put him on bottles as soon as I have him, but it would be nice to have them for when I need them.)
• binkies. (I'm HOPING this baby will be a good sucker, unlike his older brother...)
• breast pump. (Yeah, for what you THINK I need it for!) ;)
• the little head rest thingy that goes around babies heads when they're in the car seats.
• baby monitors.
• a diaper bag.

My only hope is that on Monday my doctor will allow me to schedule my c-section. (I've been told I have to wait until a month before the due date....I'm such a planner I want to get everything squared away NOW!) Such a short amount of time to get SO many things done! *sigh*

So Glad for Teachers

Today was our normal Wednesday at Scouts. The boys were rowdy, and obnoxious, but thankfully, my partner, a former first grade teacher, has control. She's so good. I know she feels like the boys don't like her, but you know, I have a sneaking suspicion that they really do like her.

She comes up with the best games and the most fun activities for them. I feel like such a slug when I'm around her. (Gosh, I guess I AM a slug around her!)

On the way back to the Primary room from playing in the gym, one boy, the usual ring-leader, acted like he was going to ring the bell. The bell at church rings all throughout the building and can be very obnoxious. The other leader has warned them over and over about the consequences of ringing the bell. (Sitting like bumps on a log in the Primary room doing NOTHING!) I told him not to ring the bell, he begged, "PLEASE!? If you let me, I'll like you more!" I then told him that he could hate me all he wanted...to which he told me that he would! (Then he giggled....I'm not too worried about a 9 year old hating me!)

I'm just very grateful for the training that teachers get, and wish that there was a way for me to get all of that training without going through all of that schooling! :P

Being a Mom to my Mom

I didn't think it would come this soon, but I've been doing all sorts of things for my mom since her surgery on Thursday. Not that I'm doing a lot, but it's been quite an eye-opening experience. The poor lady is just miserably sick. She can't hardly eat or drink, everything she DOES manage to get down just doesn't taste. On top of this she's been stuck inside her house since Thursday, with little more company than her television and her dogs.

It's weird for me to see my mom this way. She's always been such a strong example to me of strength in being who you are. Maybe I don't remember her being this sick before, but it's hard to see her this way.

On Thursday she was so drugged up that she didn't even seem like herself. (Later she realized that two of the three drugs prescribed for her contained 7% alcohol, really making her loopy!)

Cam worries about her constantly!! She fell asleep in her chair the night after her surgery and her mouth was drooped open (since the poor lady couldn't breathe through her nose) and was snoring slightly. My son, the child who asks very blunt questions said, "Mama, is she dead?!"

I calmed him by saying that she was just sleeping, but I couldn't help but giggle.

Today, for the first time since having her tonsils taken out, I saw her actually CHEW some food. Honestly, it was like witnessing a miracle! It seems like she'll be sick forever, but I know that it's only temporary. I just hope I can help her out as much as she's been a help to me in my life!

Early Morning Wake Up Call

The other morning I was in bed, debating with myself about getting up and taking a shower, or sleeping for an extra 10 minutes. I guess I was supposed to wake up because my phone began to ring.

I didn't know the name or the phone number, but I answered it anyway. The woman on the other end sounded like an older woman and she cheerily greeted me with, "Good morning!! Have you showered yet?!"

I mumbled that I hadn't.

Then she happily chatted on about something else. I agreed with her.

Then she said, "The reason I'm calling is because.....Wait. Is this Leah!?"

I told her it wasn't.
She then said, STILL in a happy voice. "Oh, I'm sorry....wrong number!"

I think that was the happiest wake up call I've ever had!! (And it made me think about the grumpy way I wake up in the mornings. Someday I want to be like Mrs. Merry Sunshine!)

Updates AND Friday Fun

Some people know this about me, others don't. But I have been diagnosed with insulin resistance. A symptom of my insulin resistance is PCOS (Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome) which caused me to have a hard time getting pregnant. Because of my history with this "fun" disease, I've had to see not only my OB, but I've been seeing my usual, pre-pregnancy doctor. At my last visit (last month) he wanted me to start testing my blood sugars twice a day. Once when I first wake up (calling it my "fasting" blood sugar) then again 2 hours after a meal. He told me that my fasting sugars should be below 90, and my post meal sugars should be below 140. Well, after a month of poking myself, my numbers were NOT what he wanted, and at my OB appointment this week, I was given the drink for the glucose tolerance test. After I got it, and was psyching myself up for this "fun FUN" test, my doctor came in and commented on it.

I'd then told her that my other doctor had asked me to check my blood sugars, and she asked about my numbers. When I told her the numbers her face dropped from her happy smile, to a disappointed frown. She took the little glucose drink and said, "Well, good news is you won't have to take this test....because I'm failing you right now." She told me that I needed to get in to see my other doctor to get treated for gestational diabetes immediately.

On top of this new turn of events, I was also given a new prescription for iron pills. I've had low iron for a while, and we're finally treating it. (Steve asked me if I'd rattle if he shook me, I told him it depended on what time of day it was!)

This week has been filled with appointments trying to get all of this figured out.

Long story short, I now have to check my blood sugars before and after EVERY meal (so 8 pokes a day) and I have to give myself insulin shots once a day.

Thankfully, the doctor thinks we have caught this early enough to help baby boy out. I just hope all of this will be beneficial to me and the baby. (So far today, after having 2 doses of insulin, my sugars are COMPLETELY behaving themselves!! So I'm SURE things are going to be fine!)

I've also been a BIT preoccupied with helping take care of my mom. She had surgery yesterday on her deviated septum, and had her tonsils taken out. She seemed to be doing okay when I was at her house yesterday, but I'm determined to be helping her out as MUCH as I possibly can!! I just love her and want her to feel better!

And as always, it's FRIDAY!! Guess what THAT means!? :D

If you want to ask me a question -- and anything goes -- here's your chance. You can ask about whatever you wish, no holds barred. I'll either answer honestly, or I'll tell you that I won't answer.

Friday Answers

Mattsmom said...
I can never seem to think of a fun question for FFA Friday. I am so glad that you have caught the gestational diabetes so quickly. Hopefully the little one will thrive even if you are a pin cushion for awhile.

Okay...question...question...

What are your families Easter traditions?

Do you celebrate St. Patrick's Day at all?

How about that Easter candy...tis the most wonderful time of the year! In moderation of course!

Mattsmom:

Our family Easter traditions aren't much. The Easter Bunny brings too much candy, we go to church, and then we eat a fancy dinner at my parents' house. I usually make Deviled Eggs, but we don't color them like we used to. I also like to get Cameron a new church outfit.

All I do for St. Patrick's Day is wear green. (I don't want to be pinched!)

I'm getting bummed about Easter candy. I will probably just save mine for as long as I can. Only eating one or two pieces at a time. (That's what I did with my Valentines' day candy!) But you DO know my favorite all time candy is out now....right?? *drool* Cadburry Cream Eggs!

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Elena Manwaring said...
Oh that's the pits. I also get gestational diabetes, but I have never had to do the shots, just strict diet control was enough for me. I can't imagine the shots, you poor thing!! So here's the Friday question: Do the shots hurt and do you ever get numb to so many pricks?

Elena:

The shots actually don't hurt a bit! I guess I can thank my fat belly for something! *snicker* If I poke it just right I don't even feel it at all!

My fingers do hurt every once in a while from the finger pricks, but I've been given a little poker thingy (don't ask me the name of it...cuz I REALLY don't remember!) that allows me to poke my arm, which is completely painless. Plus, the new monitor they gave me takes a LOT less blood than the last one that I had. So all in all, it's not TOO bad!

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Jewelle said...
Dawnyel,I have been visiting your site for awhile and finally decided to add a comment. (Oh by the way, I am in your ward. We used to do play group together. Remember?!) Anyway, I just wanted to let you know how sorry I am to hear about the g.d. I got it somewhat with Lily, but didn't have to do all that junk. However, I feel for you about the finger pricking. My mom is diabetic and has to do that. Her fingers have finally calloused after many years of this but she says it still hurts sometimes. Maybe you will be lucky and this will all go away when the little one comes. Good luck!

Jewelle:

HI JEWELLE!!! (Yes, I do remember you! I didn't know you were into blogging as well!)

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Anne/kq said...
I'm glad that the shots are working for you! Some people are able to take a pill instead that helps control their blood sugar. Is that an option for you?

Anne:

They never gave me that option, so I had no idea it was even available! :P I guess I can just stick with what works. The shots REALLY don't hurt!! :)

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Kim said...
Bummer about the insulin shots, I was wondering how your body would react to being preggo and having PCOS/IR at the same time. What are the risks to the baby? Tell your mom I hope she heals very quickly, Kimby misses her! If you could take Cam anywhere for Spring Break, where would it be? Where would you have liked to go during Spring Break during high school? (Unlimited supply of whatever you would need for this trip!)

Kim:

Usually there aren't many risks to the baby when mom has PCOS/IR. I think the mom does have a higher likelihood of developing GD though, but don't quote me on that.

If I could take Cam anywhere for Spring Break, I'd probably try to take him to Steve's grandparent's farm again. We had SUCH a good time the last time we were there. And they aren't getting any younger, so it's another perk there. But this year, all our money is being put aside for our big family reunion trip in August to Arizona. So no Northern Idaho for us this year! :(

If I could have gone anywhere in high school during Spring Break, I probably would have picked Canada (yeah, back then we all know WHY I would have picked that...) But if I were to pick NOW where I could have gone while in high school, I probably would pick Australia. There's it's JUST cooling off for fall, and I've always wanted to go there! :)

Random Picture Post

This is me at 26 weeks. I love this new shirt. It really makes me feel pregnant (and look it too!)

Is it just me, or does my nose look REALLY fat!? YIKES!!

This is the crib we've bought for Jacob. We love it. (Although putting it together was QUITE the challenge...the side boards were bent....yeah, but it's all good now!)

We bought this cute little crib set at a store where they sell gently used kid's stuff. The whole set (blanket, bumper, sheet, skirt, and coverlet) were a whopping $30!! SCORE!! The little green rag quilt is one that my mom decided to make when she found out we were pregnant. It's super cute. Inside of each of the squares is a heart (I traced them onto the material, so I contributed, right?)

This was last Saturday when Cameron and I got to babysit Jayden. He's getting really big now. When he was born he weighed 5 pounds, now, at nearly 3 months, he's up to 13!! Just look at those chubby cheeks!!

Visitors

I love getting visitors. Lately I've had a couple of interesting visits.

A few weeks ago the Jehovah's Witnesses visited my house. It was a VERY cold morning, so I kindly let them inside to warm up a bit. These two ladies were very nice. They shared a message with me about being kinder to our loved ones. Then they left me one of their pamphlets with an article about how to keep your relationships free from arguing and stuff like that. (Okay, PLEASE don't make fun of my speech right now....I've got MAJOR preggo brain, and I just don't think well anymore!)

We had a very nice conversation, and I told them straight out that the reason I invited them inside was because I hope people will do the same thing when MY missionaries come to their home. (Yes, TACKY, TACKY, Dawnyel!)

The asked me if I was LDS, and I said I was. Then they quickly (maybe TOO quickly) packed things up and left my house. They promised they'd come back and talk with me again, but I'm not holding my breath. (Really, I've had the Jehovah's Witnesses come to my house MANY a time and they always PROMISE to come back, but they NEVER do! I must be lucky or something....)

After they left, I tried to read their article, but I didn't like the feeling of it. It seemed very argumentative in itself! :P So I put it away, and noticed that in their rush to leave they left a pencil. Yay....I scored a pencil out of the deal! ;)

That visit was nice, but they weren't the only visitors I have had lately!

Last week, almost one week from the day that the Jehovah's Witnesses visited me, I got a knock from some MORE messengers. This time it was MY missionaries.
Again, the day was cold and I invited the Elders in. Unfortunately, my husband was snoozing upstairs, and I was a lonely lady on the main floor, so they talked with me at the door.

They immediately noticed that I had a picture of Christ hanging by the door and asked me if I was a member. I told them I was, and they asked me if I knew my neighbors.

Sadly, I fear my neighborhood. My neighbors AREN'T the best people, but they can be nice. I just haven't ventured too far past my little apartment. I told them that I knew a FEW people, but not many. Then they asked me if I knew of ANYONE who might need to hear their message. Again, I was a bit ashamed and told them that whenever we have those lessons in church about being a member missionary, and praying to find those seeking truth, I never can think of a name.

Then one of the Elders, who I KNOW is barely 20 years old, stood before me and promised me that if I prayed and took the time to make a list, I would find someone who needs the missionaries. It was one of those times when I felt the Spirit confirming the words of a YOUNG man. I felt the power of his words, and I've decided to take his challenge. They joked with me a little about even if it was someone in Wyoming, they have connections.

The visit was short. Much shorter than the visit I had with the women from the week before, but it was SO much more powerful. I have no other words to describe it.

Visitors are fun. But there can be a great difference in the message they bring!

My Life Monday: My Life in Six Words

This week My Life Monday is BACK!! (And I'm SO thrilled about it! Even though Rachelle picked a TOUGH topic!)

Overactive imagination used here daily.

Realization

Just this last week I've come to the realization that Cameron will NOT be able to catch up with his peers. I don't know why I kept this hope alive, but it seems that the boy will forever be behind his friends. He's SLOWLY learning to read, and most of his friends from last year can read well. *sigh* This was my fear when the school told me that they wanted to put him in DACC. I wanted him to keep up SOME interaction with his classmates, but so far this year, he's been interacting more with the second graders.

Admitting this is SO hard for me. My son will always be behind. He may possibly end up in Special Ed classes his whole life.

I'm still doing the right thing, right?

Preparing for Cameron's Next Birthday

We had an informative meeting last night to prepare us for Cameron getting baptized this year.

All I have to say is we have a LOT to prepare the boy for. (I'm glad we've got until October to get all of this finalized in his mind.)

He is mentally behind his peers, but I'm sure he'll be okay getting baptized this year, as long as we can teach him about the basics. The kid just doesn't understand things on quite the same level as the other kids in his class. But like I said, I'm sure he'll be fine!

What do You do with a Sick Kid?

I try to keep him locked in my house so that he'll get feeling better soon....otherwise, *shrug* We usually nap and watch cartoons.

Thankfully, he's doing better, but he's still congested and dripping from his nose. I know he's doing better because he doesn't want to cuddle on my lap the way he did LAST night. Cuddling is NOT his thing, so I know something's up when he wants to be held by mama.

*Sigh* I just hope he's better tomorrow!

Free For All Friday

It's time for Free-For-All Friday!

If you want to ask me a question -- and anything goes -- here's your chance. You can ask about whatever you wish, no holds barred. I'll either answer honestly, or I'll tell you that I won't answer.

Wow....I have TONS to Answer! ;)

Melzie said...
1. Is the stomach bug going around down there? EVERYONE i getting it here.. and me, just in time for the weekend. Blech.

2. What is your favorite kind of flower(s)? I'm all about "think spring!"

Melzie:

1. Yes, in fact, Cam has just come down with the crud tonight. Poor boy! I was HOPING to go to a cool Stake meeting tomorrow, but I guess I'll be staying home with the sick kid! :( (Hope YOU get feeling better soon!)

2. I have decided that I don't really have a "favorite" flower. I love them ALL!! This week Steve bought be a beautiful bouquet of mums and daisies. I think a good mix of flowers is my favorite. If I could plant ANY flowers in my little patch of ground, and have it survive my crazy neighborhood, I'd probably love to have a rosebush, and pansies. Pansies always make me smile! :)

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Kim said...
If there was one talent you wish you had, or could even perfect, what would it be?

Kim:

I wish I had the talent for speaking in public. I can talk in small groups, but in larger groups I feel like I'm just a little squeak in the group. I would love to be more eloquent and phrase my thoughts better than I do. (That's one thing my family LOVES to poke fun at....my lousy speech!)

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One Scrappy Gal said...
What do you take for a headache??

Did you get snow today like we did?

What is Pi squared?

What's your favorite pie filling?

Scrappy:

I take a long nap for a headache.

We did get some snow tonight....it was so pretty too!

I have NO idea about math questions....I'll have to ask my brother. (Honestly, I'm the English person, and he's the math guru!)

I love pumpkin or banana cream pies! Mmmmmmm! :P

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Rachelle said...
Are you going crazy shopping for baby? Do you have a name picked out? Have you answered these before and I have just missed it because I suck? And do you use word verification because you hate us? ;)

Rachelle:

Have you rejoined the blogging world? ;)

I am doing some fun shopping for little boy. We've been trying to stock up on church clothes for the little one, since church clothes are only out 2 times a year (Christmas time and Easter time). So far we've got two cute outfits for him, but we're still on the lookout. We've also been looking for a decent crib, car seat, swing, and standing bouncy seat. So far, we've got clothes....yet to find those big ticket items.

We do have a name picked out. If you look above my little baby avatar countdown thingy (I don't know what to call it...) We've decided to call our new little boy Jacob. :)

I don't know if I've answered these before....honestly, I've got preggo brain BAD! :P

I use word verification because once upon a time I had a TON of comments, but they were all from some advertising place...yup, I was bombarded by computer crap! :P I hate comments that aren't personal, so I want to see if you are human....if you can do the word verification, then you pass! ;)

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AimeeTheSuperMom said...
If you're STARVING, and all you have is ketchup, what do you do?

Aimee:

Uh, ketchup?? I guess I'd try to boil it and make a mock tomato soup. (If I were Cameron, I'd just eat it straight from the bottle!)

In the Air

This weekend my little sister and her husband came for a visit. While they were here they announced that they are expecting. I think my sister wanted a bigger reaction to the news, but we've all been hoping for this for so long that it was a pleasant surprise instead of instant shock.

She's due in September and so far has had no morning sickness. Am I a bad sister to wish that she experience what I had??

I'm excited and pray that all goes well for her! :)

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While she was here we went to let my grandparents know the happy news, and I'm getting sad about the fact that my grandpa's memory is gone. We were there for an hour and a half, and in that time he asked me multiple times if I was pregnant. (Which they've known for a while!) I'm pretty sure the poor man has alzheimers, and I'm sad to see that change. Looking in his eyes I could see a child-like innocence.

Thankfully, he's not gotten agressive with us, but he's not so nice to my grandma. I worry about them!

Fun and Inexpensive V-Day

This year, I tried to be frugal for Valentines' day, but I did go a LITTLE overboard...

He loved it, and especially loves the singing, dancing doggy that he's holding. It was fun!

Free For All Friday

It's time for Free-For-All Friday!
If you want to ask me a question -- and anything goes -- here's your chance. You can ask about whatever you wish, no holds barred. I'll either answer honestly, or I'll tell you that I won't answer.

Answer

Elena Manwaring said...
Did you do anything fun for V-day? If not(or even if), what do you wish you could have done?

Elena:

We did a lot of nothing really. Steve had a split shift (it wasn't SUPPOSED to be that way...) so we ended up going out to lunch and then spending the night at home.

I don't know if I wish we could have done something different, really. I'm such a simple girl. I guess the only thing that I would have changed would be maybe to have watched a romantic movie together....

Otherwise, we did what I enjoy doing! :)

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One Scrappy Gal said...
Do you still sell Scentsy?

Scrappy:

Yes, I do. In fact, my FIRST party is Thursday....I'm excited!! :)

Feeling the Guilt

So today I realized, I'm not a mean person. Because of this lack of mean-ness, my little scouts (who by the way are seriously obnoxious ALL the time) walk all over me. On top of this, I've had a complaint about one scout feeling extra picked on. He feels so bad that he often doesn't want to come to scouts. When I got the call from his mom about this, I really badly wanted to say, "You know, all of the boys pick on each other, it's a normal boy thing. But your son actually is one of the worst offenders!!" What I really said was something to the effect, "Uh, I think they all pick on each other equally, I haven't noticed it."

So at our weekly den meeting this week, I was extra sensitive to the boys being nice to one another.

As usual though, things quickly got out of control...boys calling one another names (weird ones that they made up), saying rude things, not following directions, being blatantly disrespectful (you know, the normal 8-9 year old boy stuff!) I didn't want to cause a huge disruption, but I had to address the crap they were doing. I calmly (or so I thought) reminded the boys that they were in the church, and that they should behave themselves. Well, the one boy who is usually the ring-leader of the rowdies said something sarcastic, and I asked him if he wanted me to write a letter to his "mommy." He instantly jumped on "mommy," and was ignorant again. So I asked him to come talk with me in the hall. Our talk didn't go over SO well. I think I ended up making him feel extremely guilty. What my intention was to get the ringleader to be more accepting and NICE, and maybe the other boys would follow suit....I don't think I did that!

Now I'm worried that HIS mom will call me and tell me that I've hurt HIS feelings. Which was NOT my intention!

*sigh*

Why did they put me in charge of these boys?? Do I need to learn to be mean??

Our plan for next den meeting is a lesson on manners....my partner is taking the reigns on that one....she's a former school teacher and can get these boys to do ANYTHING! She says she feels like the bad guy, but I think they just respect her more than they do me!

Sick...and TIRED

So I haven't been to visit my computer for days now, simply because I've been hacking, and whinning....I'm sick. I've got a sore throat, ear ache, stuffy nose and cough. Normally, being this sick wouldn't be SO bad, but on top of the sickies, I'm constantly tired. *sigh*

I just wish I had some cure-all medicine to fix myself, but sadly, I'm trying to get better drinking as much water and OJ as possible!!

Also, last week I ended up seeing my "normal" doctor. He's worried that I'll develop gestational diabetes (since I'm already severely insulin resistant and morbidly obese) so he's got me pricking my fingers and checking my blood sugars twice a day. My fingers are covered in mini scabs and I'm surviving. (As long as you don't count my fasting blood or after breakfast blood....) Thankfully, my sugars are close to being under control (usually half-way through the day) and I'm not TOO worried!! Otherwise, things are going well...how are you!? ;)

Free For All Friday

It's time for Free-For-All Friday!

If you want to ask me a question -- and anything goes -- here's your chance. You can ask about whatever you wish, no holds barred. I'll either answer honestly, or I'll tell you that I won't answer.

Answers

Elena Manwaring said...
What's your favorite ColdStone Icecream flavor and mix in?

Elena:

Sadly, I've only been to ColdStone ONCE....but what I got was NUMMY!! :) I mixed in brownies. I don't remember the flavor (seriously, it was a LONG time ago...) But I do remember it was delicious!! Hmmmm....maybe a date night to ColdStone is coming! ;)

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Sketchy said...
Do you have a favorite maternity outfit? How often do you wear it? And can we see a picture?

Sketchy:

I love all of my stretchy clothes (not necessarily "maternity" clothing) I happen to be wearing my favorite outfit, but it's covered in chocolate (Cam ate some and then drooled on me!) I wear it at LEAST once a week (I have to rotate ALL of my clothes that often anymore tho...) Here's some OLD pics of me wearing the outfit, but you HAVE to realize, I took these as "belly" shots....and I took them using my "redneck" mirrors (it's 1 foot by 1 foot mirrors glued to the wall to make a larger mirror....don't laugh...we DIDN'T put them in!!)

Helpful Friends

For over a month I've had an extra fridge in my already small kitchen. Today I got a welcome call from my home teacher. He came over tonight and HELPED MOVE IT!!

He's so wonderful (as is his wife, who I consider a great friend!)

Gotta love it when you can use your house the way you need! :)

THANKS GUYS!! <3

And The Results Are....

...our baby is DEFINITELY a boy. He wasn't shy about it either.

The technician was really nice and tried to get a little profile pic of baby boy, but he wasn't having any of it. So all we got are straight on shots of his face....he looks like a little skeleton baby!! *snicker*

All in all, I'm very excited. Cam is also excited! Daddy is happy, but a little disappointed. Maybe next time!! ;)

Here's my skeleto-baby....if you look to the right, you can see his face.

Movement

This pregnancy has brought me many exciting things. The thought of another baby is SO exciting to me. I'm sure if I had been able to concieve when I wanted to, things wouldn't necessarily be the same....but because of this wait, I've learned to cherish EVERYTHING this child has brought.

Last night was one of the things I've been looking forward to for a LONG time. For 4 weeks now I've been able to quietly enjoy the fluttery movements of my baby (sometimes they're not so "fluttery...") and last night, I was able to feel the baby pushing through my belly....with my hand!! Outside movement has been something I've waited for, and last night, Steve got to enjoy the little movements, and this morning Cam got to feel his sibling kicking his hand (probably the only time it will have the upper hand over him!)

I love this, and just HAD to share!!

TGIF

It's time for Free-For-All Friday!
If you want to ask me a question -- and anything goes -- here's your chance. You can ask about whatever you wish, no holds barred. I'll either answer honestly, or I'll tell you that I won't answer.

Friday Answers

Amy said...
Any crazy cravings as of yet?
Are you finding out the gender of your little one?
do you secretly hope for one gender more than the other?
Amy:
Crazy cravings?? Not really, just random ones...the kind that hit in the middle of the night!
We HOPE to find out on Monday what we're having...as long as the baby cooperates (so far, whenever I touch the outside of my belly to feel it move, it stops....must be a shy child!)
I secretly hope for another boy...just because I know boys and I don't think I could handle the emotional drama a girl brings!
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One Scrappy Gal said...
What is your bedtime routine like?

Do you use mouthwash? What kind?

Are you ready for the warmer weather already?

What do you and your love muffin have planned for Valentines?

Scrappy:

My bedtime routine is pretty off from what it is NON-preggo....I wait until close to midnight (yes, midnight) and take my prenatal vitamin, a folic acid pill, watch tv while Steve snores away, and then I go to sleep. I don't do a LOT, but it's my routine!

I hate mouthwash.....so I don't use it.

I wish it was spring, although, I've learned that with spring comes camping fever for me....and I can't go camping until later on in the summer....*bummed*

I don't have much planned for Valentines' day....because Steve is performing in his play that night....we'll probably watch a video or something and fall asleep....we're so romantic! :S

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Sketchy said...
How's Cam reacting to the idea of the new baby?

How did you tell him and how did he react?

Sketchy:

Cam's SO thrilled with the idea of becoming a big brother. Apparently he's told EVERYONE that we're having a baby brother....so we'll see whether he's right or wrong on Monday! He prays for it nightly, and asks me if he can change diapers and help with feedings. He's SO excited!

I didn't really "tell" him that we were having a baby, he overheard me. I was talking to Carrie on the phone about it, and he asked me when I had hung up who was having a baby. I told him it was me, he was SO excited THEN that he wrapped his arms around me and gave me a huge hug. He's been thrilled ever since!! :)

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mattsmom said...
Have you ever thought about what life would be like had snow shoes never been invented?

mattsmom:

Uh, not really....I, personally, don't use them, so I don't really ever *think* about them....

Does that make me a bad person!?

Hope

Yesterday was Cam's IEP amendment meeting, and it went REALLY well. I had actually run into his teacher at church on Saturday, and talked about a few concerns I had (a little girl, who is Cam's bestest buddy flipped him off in pictures he took when he took his digital camera for show and tell, Cam INSISTING on taking a certain thing to school, telling me that his teacher said he HAD to have it, and I had NO idea about any of it...) So I felt somewhat prepared for our little meeting.
And just for your information, the teacher had a good talking to with Cam's friend about flipping people off, and we all just LAUGHED over Cam's insisting that he HAD to take an optional item to school. (I didn't believe him, so I made him get a teacher's note...which he DID get!)

Anyway, the news is that he will be getting speech services, but they will focus on his language/grammar skills. (My son says a lot, but he gets his pronouns and tenses mixed up.) Then his teacher told me that even though he's the youngest in DACC (the ages range from 1st grade to 3rd grade) he's picking up the things the OLDER kids are learning. If they're working on a new word, he's learning it. If they're working on addition, he's watching and picking it up. In no way is he in the same range as his peers, but he is advancing faster than expected. And THAT makes me happy and full of hope!

Gordon B. Hinckley 1910-2008

He was a great man, who influenced me for good many times.

There were 2 times when I was directly in his presence, and both times I felt the confirmation that he is truly a prophet of God. The first time he was teeny tiny (I was on the top balcony of the Conference center) and I remember the silence that filled that hall when he entered. I then remember the sweet feeling that brought me to tears. Then, in his sweet way, he took his cane and motioned for us to stop standing for him and to sit. We all giggled.

I love him, and will miss him, but I also know that he's very happy with his sweetheart tonight! What a sweet scene that must be!

He died around 7:00 pm surrounded by his family at the age of 97. I love you, President Hinckley!

Free For All Friday Makes it's Comeback! ;)

It's time for Free-For-All Friday!

If you want to ask me a question -- and anything goes -- here's your chance. You can ask about whatever you wish, no holds barred. I'll either answer honestly, or I'll tell you that I won't answer.

Answering the Questions that You WANT to Know

mattsmom said...
What is the grossest thing you have ever eaten?

P.S. it is still "freakin'" "cold".

mattsmom:

The grossest thing I can THINK of that I've eaten is calamari. Yes, I know it's a delicacy, but to me, BLECH!! :P

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Elena Manwaring said...
Did you have a job when you were a teen?

Elena:

My main job as a teen was an on-call babysitter. I also worked for a little while in a day-care center. I thought that it was the PERFECT job....until it didn't make me as much money as I had hoped. So when I was a month away from graduating from high school, I got a job as a short-order cook at Kmart. Eventually I worked my way up to putting away clothes, but then I left for college, and ended up just never getting scheduled again. Do you think that means I still work there?? ;)

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Melzie said...
1. Do you think that if they cancel all 3 recess' because of the "freakin' cold," schools should be closed also?

2. If you won a "all you can grab in 30 minutes" shopping spree, what store would you pick to do it in?

Melzie:

1. That's a good question. Cam's had school lately where they've cancelled the recesses, but he's still been in school. So I guess from the stand-point of a frazzled parent, no, the schools should stay open at any cost!! (I know as a teacher you have a different take...)

2. Thirty minutes is a LONG time....I guess if I could choose, I'm such a redneck for saying this, but I'd pick Walmart. They've got some NICE stuff now!! I would be set!!

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One Scrappy Gal said...
Do you have anything exciting planned for this weekend? Besides staying warm?

Scrappy:

This weekend all I really have planned is church stuff. I'm singing in the choir, and we're performing Saturday night AND Sunday morning. We've only been practicing for a few weeks, but we sound so good. (Yes, I know how that sounds, but it's true!) Other than that, we'll probably call my mother-in-law tomorrow for her birthday (Happy birthday!) and do as little as possible while still staying warm...which I think we're having a heat-wave...today's high is supposed to be in the 20s!

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Darci said...
Who do you get your personality traits from?? Mom or Dad?? Or an alien??

Darci:

I'm pretty sure I'm a personality clone of my mother (although, I've been told I look like my dad.) My mom and I are just SO close that we can finish one another's sentences...really!! We can giggle over the same dumb joke, and not have to explain it. She's helped mold me into the crazy, fun-loving, happy person I am....and I'm so glad she did!

So COLD!

I'm sure there are some who have more to complain about than I do, but sheesh, it's so cold here! Snow squeaks when you walk on it. The dry, cold air instantly gives me a cough. My hands, which normally are very warm, freeze within seconds of being outside. It's just DANG cold!!

Yesterday with the cold temperatures and a windchill, school was cancelled. (Which disappointed Cam to NO end!) Without the windchill the morning temperature was -16...WITH the windchill?? -36!! That's just too dang cold!

I've decided that the name for this little symbol ("-") is not "negative," but "freakin'." And any number put after that symbol is hereby called "cold." Let me use these in a sentence for you.

The sentence "Yesterday the morning temperature was -16." is read as: "Yesterday the morning temperature was "freakin'" "cold"!"

I had to crank up the heater 3 times yesterday...just to keep the apartment semi-livable! Last night, it was set at over 70 degrees!! Waking up this morning was nice, but my basement/laundry room/garage is WAY cold!! There's no heat that I can get down there.

For a while now we've had a little leakage from our washing machine (I think...) and there's a constant puddle on the floor. Yesterday when I went to do my laundry, there was no longer a puddle, but an ice skating rink. It all FROZE!! If I wasn't such a wuss when it comes to skating, I might try it in my own basement!!

Good Bye Slowness

Today is a happy day in the house. No longer will I have to wait 3 or more minutes to visit my friends on the computer. Now in mere SECONDS I can visit all of you!!

Thank you, Qwest man!! :D

I Just Don't Get It

Last spring, before school got out, we requested that Cameron be tested for in school speech therapy. (He's been getting community speech therapy for YEARS, and we figured the more the better.) And they said they'd get RIGHT on it.

Fast forward to Tuesday. I get a call from Cameron's teacher. She tells me that the speech therapist has FINALLY finished Cameron's testing and we need to set up a meeting for adding an amendment to his IEP.

NEARLY EIGHT MONTHS!! What is that speech therapist doing, asking him ONE word per session?? Sheesh!!

But I guess I shouldn't complain, I mean, it's done, and I'm pretty sure if there's an amendment meeting, then it's a sign that he's going to be GETTING the therapy. But taking 8 months?? Seems a LITTLE ridiculous to me.

On top of this frustration, we had to reschedule the initial meeting, because Mrs. Principal (whom I despise) couldn't make it at that time. Uh, did we REALLY need her there?? All I've EVER had from her is frustration.

The first time I had EVER met the woman, she showed up 30 minutes late to the meeting, in the middle of our conversation (on which EVERYONE was in agreement) and insisted that we do something else, because she only heard PART of the conversation.

Thanks, but NO thanks, woman. I know what my son needs, and it isn't you!!

To Dream

Have you ever had a dream so real and vivid that you wake up and are disoriented?? I've done that MULTIPLE times this week, and I don't know if I can fix it or not.

The bad thing about my weird, vivid, and down right psycho dreams is that they just keep getting worse and worse.

I know I can blame it on my pregnancy, but I just don't feel that it's fair to blame EVERYTHING on that....maybe I'm just weird. *sigh*

Now, if you don't mind, I'm off to do some furniture shopping at our local garden center, after which, I'm going to buy a prom dress for more money than I have, in a size that isn't mine, JUST so I can try it on.

Free For All Friday

It's time for Free-For-All Friday!
If you want to ask me a question -- and anything goes -- here's your chance. You can ask about whatever you wish, no holds barred. I'll either answer honestly, or I'll tell you that I won't answer.

Answers

Elena Manwaring said...
WHOA! Is it Friday already??? ANd not only Friday, but how did it get to be Jan. 11 so soon?

Elena:

I know, where has the time gone?? I think time just zooms when you are a busy mama.

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One Scrappy Gal said...
Are you all set to do your taxes?

Scrappy:

*spitting* Uh, not yet. We don't get Steve's information from HIS job until the end of the month, and I haven't heard anything from my student loan people or any other people I need information from. *SIGH* But I will get working on it next month.

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Melzie said...
If you could pick the most fantastic place to live out the rest of your life, where would you go? Money isn't a factor- because, well-- money sucks. ;)

Melzie:

Wouldn't it be great to live in Italy? I'm not saying one of the BIG cities, one of the little villages or places like that. I would love to go there, but who knows if I could really live THAT far away from my family for that long. (And yes, money SUCKS!)

What Did I Do, Officer??

Tonight I drove Steve to get some dinner at a restaurant on our city's busy street. After going through the drive-thru, we looked into the road and saw in the turn lane an ENGINE!! (No, I'm NOT kidding, it was a full-blown-ENGINE!) I pulled out and tried to avoid the dang thing, and continued on, talking with Steve about what I had done that day.

As we were talking I saw the flashing blue and red lights in my rear-view mirror. *SIGH* I pulled on to a side-street, rolled down the window, and waited for the cop to tell me what I'd done wrong. (Steve was saying, "It's not OUR engine...our car is running....")

The officer asked for my license and registration and proof of insurance. I pulled out my license (which took me a minute to find, since in wintertime I don't believe in purses....it's all piled into my coat pocket....) while Steve looked for the registration and proof of insurance. The officer asked us if that was indeed an engine and we said it was, but luckily it WASN'T ours, since OUR car was running so nicely. Then he told me that whether our turn signals worked or not, he didn't notice me using them. I honestly told him that I didn't use them, and he commended me on my honesty, and just let me go with a warning, and a friendly reminder to use my blinkers.

Gotta love small town cops!! :)

Ring Ring

Guess who was on the phone for the majority of the day??

So guess who got VERY little accomplished....

And guess who had a WONDERFUL day chatting with friends and family!! :D

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On another random note, we have been given several nice things. For the last week, we've had a WONDERFUL fridge with a SEPARATE freezer. I can have ice cream again, and I have!! ;)

But because of the "new" fridge, our old one is sitting in the middle of our TEENY kitchen...taking up much needed space!! *sigh* I hope we can get rid of it SOON!!

We've also been given a junker/work car that we'll let my little brother drive until he leaves on his mission in April. We've YET to get it licensed, but that is on the list of things to DO this week.

*************************************

Okay, ONE more random note, I had my doctor's appointment today, and didn't have an ultrasound like I've had at every previous appointment. We did get to hear the heartbeat, and while the doctor was trying to hear it, the baby was moving like CRAZY!! (But I didn't feel a THING, until I was sitting after dinner...THEN I could!) All is well, and my BIG ultrasound for finding out the sex is scheduled for February 4th. So don't forget to vote for what you THINK we're having!! So far the votes are pretty close!! :)

Free-For-All Friday

It's time for Free-For-All Friday!

If you want to ask me a question -- and anything goes -- here's your chance. You can ask about whatever you wish, no holds barred. I'll either answer honestly, or I'll tell you that I won't answer.

So You THINK You Want to Know?

One Scrappy Gal said...
What are some of the goals you are hoping to achieve in 2008?

Are you as sick of all the presidential hoopla as I am?

Scrappy:

The only goal I have for 2008 is to lighten my debt load, and to have a baby!! ;)

And YES, I HATE the whole thing, I can't wait until it's over!! :P

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Elena Manwaring said...
What's for dinner tonight? And what scent is burning right now?

Elena:

Dinner tonight was courtesy of the Temple!! (Mmmmmmm....mmmm!!) I had chicken pieces, with mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, a scone (that I couldn't finish), and a piece of coconut cream pie! *wiping the drool from my mouth*

Earlier today I had Cinco De Mayo burning, but I THINK it was making me nauseous, so now I've got Cozy Fireplace going. Sadly, I had a TON of scents that I ordered from my little launch party, but someone said that they needed to buy some bars, so I sold 6 of my YUMMIEST scents! :(

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AmberL said...
Is it still Friday?

Amber:

It's a good thing I love you!! ;)

Hi, My name is Dawnyel, and I'm a Junkie....

....an America's Next Top Model junkie.

All week I've been watching a FULL OUT marathon of all NINE seasons of the show. It's going 24/7, and I just can't stop sometimes!!

Sadly, I've seen most of the seasons all the way through, missing one or two shows here and there, so I pretty much know when a season starts WHO will win, but I like to see her transformation and HOW she gets to the top.

My husband thinks it's dumb. He tells me that it promotes poor self-esteem. But come on, I'm NOT comparing myself to any of these girls, I just like to watch and think about how young and stupid I used to be.....

*SIGH*

Is there an anonymous group I can report to??

Good Bye 2007.....

Can't WAIT to see what 2008 brings!! :)

Free For All Friday

It's time for Free-For-All Friday!
If you want to ask me a question -- and anything goes -- here's your chance. You can ask about whatever you wish, no holds barred. I'll either answer honestly, or I'll tell you that I won't answer.

Answers for Friday

Sketchy said...
What was the best gift you received this year and what was the best gift you gave?

(And sorry if answering this question gets you in trouble from anyone who's gift you didn't choose as best.)

(And no answers like "the love of my Savior" or something like that, we know that comes first. I'm talking tangible, hold it in your hands kind of gift.)

Sketchy:

My absolute favorite gift I GOT this year was a jeans rag quilt that my mom made. She made one for EVERY one of her kids, and I live under my quilt when I'm downstairs!!

A few months ago she was making some of the quilts and I looked at her and said, "If all I got for Christmas was one of these quilts, I'd be happy..." Then she gave me THE look. She then told me that the quilts WERE for Christmas, so I shut-up. But you know, I think I was the MOST shocked when we opened them....just because my brain INSTANTLY forgot about them!!

The best gift I GAVE would have to be my "sneaky" gift. I drew my younger, rebellious brother's name for Christmas, and I had NO idea WHAT to get for him. So after thinking about it, I decided to make him a tile picture of the Savior. I don't know WHAT he'll think about it (he never came up for Christmas, and his gifts are waiting at my parents' house, because he didn't let us know he wasn't coming until Christmas Eve afternoon....) but I'm sure he'll THINK about it when he gets it!

********************************************************

CareBearMommy said...
Another Christmas gift-related question... what did Santa bring for everyone this year?

And what is/was your favorite holiday treat? (I should know this one by now, but I don't).

Carrie:

Santa brought Cameron a skateboard and helmet (WITH the elbow and knee pads), in his stocking he got an orange, a coloring book, twisty crayons, matchbox cars, a tie, and a CTR ring. For Steve, Santa brought a bag of York peppermint patties. For me, Santa brought a box of chocolate covered cherry sticks and the directions for Cam's skateboarding stuff.

My favorite holiday treat of ALL time is my Grandma's fruitcake, but since she doesn't make it any more...I love fudge, or chocolate covered orange/cherry sticks. Either way, GIVE ME CHOCOLATE!!

Christmas Plans

We'll be spending Christmas Eve with my family for the first time in MANY years. I'm really excited about that.

Then we'll spend Christmas morning with my parents and siblings, then the remainder of Christmas day will be spent with my in-laws. I'm very excited about all this fun family time.

I apologize for the lack of communication from me, but I do love you all and feel blessed to have so many friends who truly care about my little world!!

Merry Christmas to ALL!! From me, little ol' Dawnyel!! ;)

HOLY COW!!!

Christmas Eve is ONE week away, and I don't even feel prepared!! (Although, all of my Christmas shopping IS done....) Where did the time go??

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And as an emotional moment from me....

Tonight I was checking on my Scentsy and reading some other stuff online, when I heard our doorbell ring. I was a little shocked since it was SO late, but I figured it was one of our neighbors. Anyway, I heard Steve open the door and then he INSTANTLY called for me. I came waddling (yes, I waddle now....ligament pains...blah...) anyway, I asked him what it was. He told me to just come down. As I came to the bottom of the stairs I saw our front porch covered with packages.

An easy way to make a pregnant woman cry!! THANKS to my anonymous giver!!

Brain-Dead, but It STILL is Friday

It's time for Free-For-All Friday!

If you want to ask me a question -- and anything goes -- here's your chance. You can ask about whatever you wish, no holds barred. I'll either answer honestly, or I'll tell you that I won't answer.

And please excuse me if I seem brain-dead....my pregnancy, medications, and my new job are all getting to me....but I'm STILL happy!!