No Time

I am wondering how time has gotten away from me with this blog? I cannot believe it has been so long since I have posted anything! Well I guess I can kinda believe it when I think about the way my life has been going and all the things that have been happening. While I do not have the energy or the time right now to update you on what is happening I just wanted to let you know I am still here and will try to type something out sooner rather than later, or maybe I will just purchase a journal to write in that I can keep forever, we'll see I guess!

What a Fun Weekend!

Well we had a lot planned for our long 4th of July weekend and it went great. I think a lot of times the weekend comes and goes so quickly and we have nothing to remember from it. We get caught up in the same old routine and wonder why we never get to "do" anything. Well I discovered this past weekend that you have to make "it" happen. Granted we stuffed a lot into this one particular weekend, but I think we can find a balance.
We went to a ski show at Catfish Bay on Friday night and had a great time there. Steeven got to see boats on the water right in front of him and he even liked it! Tried to do some fireworks, but found out the hard way that Steeven is terrified of them, sorry little man. On Saturday we actually slept in! Well, Steeven got up at 7:30, but I brought him in bed with us and he slept until 9:30!! Had a great time at the Washington Pavilion, thanks to a membership my in-laws gave the kids for Easter, and then did our grocery shopping. Sunday we went to Watertown and spent the day with Wade's family at a hotel and even got a little pool time in. Today the girls and I went for a bike ride and the boys got the car washed, which Steeven didn't freak out about, and then we went to Toy Story 3 in the afternoon.
There were a lot of firsts happening this weekend and for the most part Steeven took them all in stride. It still amazes me how well he has adjusted to this life we have brought him into. I am reminded from time to time that adjustments do not always go so well, and while we still have the rest of his life ahead of us, God has given us a great transition right now. The health struggles he has faced have not been easy, but could have been harder I guess. We have had so much support and our kids have just been amazing.

Update

Well it has been a little while since I typed anything for this bog, so here is a little summary of what has been happening in the last month.
I have gotten a little frustrated with the lack of progress with Carter's medical issue. When we first met with his specialist over a year ago I never imagined we would still be dealing with it. His colon has been shrinking, but I am not fully convinced we are doing everything we can. Adjusting meds off and on is not my idea of the right "fix", but I did not go to medical school.
Next thing. Steeven still has diarrhea, yes still. I'm not sure how many foods we need to cut out of our diet, but I am craving food! Actually we eat pretty good, but I think it is the lack of flexibility I miss. I took both boys to a Naturopathic doctor and at that point Steeven had been off of dairy for a while and we as a family had been off of gluten for almost a week. So we get some supplements for the boys and are told to cut out Dairy, Egg and Gluten for two weeks and see what happens. The idea is we can get our systems cleaned out and then slowly add each item back and see how it effects us. Oh no problem I thought, we can do this. Two weeks will be over before I know it! That is so not how it has gone.
My precious, humble, giving, adorable, loving grandfather had finally had enough here on earth. He longed to be with my grandma since July when she passed away. We took the kids down at Easter time so he could meet Steeven. It was a good trip and we got lots of pictures to remember it by. Then we got a call saying he was not doing well and we should come to see him soon. We did. It was a very busy weekend for him, he had a lot of visitors. I got to spend time with him and the kids got to talk with him, I thought it went well. I could tell he was very ill, but I thought we would have a little more time. We got home on a Sunday evening and I got a phone call Monday morning at 7:20 saying he had passed away that morning. You would think I was a basket case, not so. I will tell you that I am a stuffer, yes a stuffer. For those of you who do not know what it is allow me to enlighten you. A stuffer is someone who can stuff their feelings down inside to a point where they are very hard to get out. Why would I do this, well I think it was modeled for me, so it is what I know. I did it at this particular time because my kids were right there with me and I knew what would happen if I broke down right before school, not good. That entire day was busy,as is everyday, but I kept thinking, "Will I be able to feel what I need to, can I get back the feeling that I just stuffed". Well thankfully I have this time. This was one of the biggest losses in my life. I was very close to my grandma as well, but I think it was different when I lost her because there was still one of the pair left, you know? Someone to still tell their stories, to chat with about what it was like when they helped my dad to raise me and my brother. It was just different. I am blessed to have had the most wonderful grandparents in the world.
Another thing that ahs been happening si with Steeven. He has, since February, had 3 episodes where he goes limp and his eyes roll back in his head. Very scary for all of us. The last time it happened was when were traveling for the funeral. When we got back home I called his doctor and we are now scheduled to see a Pediatric Neurologist on Wednesday. I am very curious as to what will happen at this appointment and very hopeful.
So that is what has been happening at our house in the past month. Oh, I forgot to mention school, baseball, softball, work, extra work for Wade and on and on. Such is life, but I am eagerly anticipating a slow down for some of these things and answers for our health issues.

No Place Else I Would Rather Be

I have to admit that I have been thinking about how long it will be before Steeven will not need/want me or Wade to stay in his room until he falls asleep. He does share a room with Carter so I feel better knowing he is not alone, but still I wonder how long?
It is true that most of the time what I am thinking about is what else needs to be done while I sit on the floor on the boys' room, or what might be on television. I won't lie, I have tried to leave after kissing them good night or even sneak out while they are still awake. Neither usually work.
Tonight started out the same way. Wade is working so I am putting the four to bed, no big deal. I am brushing Steeven's teeth as I am giving the girls instructions, "I am getting your brother ready for bed so you need to also get ready and then if I am not back down before you are done then read." I come upstairs with Steeven and help Carter finish in the bathroom then tell him something similar, "Go downstairs and brush your teeth then come back up for bed." Bless his little heart as he tries to get to stay up longer, "If Steeven isn't asleep yet should I still come in or just wait?" Gotta love him! "I think it would be just fine for you to come on in so you can get to bed too." So I tuck Steeven in and give him lots of kisses then say goodnight and walk out of the room. As I am leaving he says "sit" in Haitian, as I continue my walk he is letting me know this is not what he wants, so I say, "Do you want mommy to sit?", "Yes, sit.", what can I say to that right? So I sit, I have made progress from laying in his bed to sitting beside his bed to where I sit now, right by the door. All he really wants is to know that I am there, he is totally fine with me being on the other side of the room now, I mean really he can't even see me, just a blob of me without his glasses on. Now, Wade is another story. Most nights Wade has to either be in bed with him or be touching him in some way, go figure. Anyway, as I am sitting by the door Carter comes and so I tuck him in and give both boys more kisses and say goodnight, I dont' even try to leave this time, just assume my post again. This time while I was sitting I felt God telling me, "What could be more important than this?".
What could be more important than this? That is a good question, especially for a "busy" person like myself. I think I need to be doing something all the time, checking off my list, getting things done, etc, etc, etc. It's not just at night, but all day long really. I guess it is the draw back to working at home, all kinds of things surround me. Clean there, rearrange this, finish that, laundry, dishes, blah, blah, blah. Oh you are at home so you have time to........ Really, in my heart of hearts, what I deep down want to be doing is spending time with Steeven like I did my other kids, not caring for other people's kids at the same time. I have great kids at daycare, don't get me wrong, but he has never really had quality time with me like he deserves. Does he know that this is his house and his toys and his food and his family and it just happens that other kids come Mon-Fri so mommy can earn money? Jordyn, Abby and Carter do, but does Steeven? Well, this is a tangent I didn't know I would get on, sounds like it could be a post in itself.
So, getting back on track, God really made me think tonight. Why are other things so important, why do I need to check off my list and move on to the next thing? Until Steeven fell asleep I just sat there looking at the two boys, my two boys, knowing that there was no place else I wanted to be at that very moment.

I was going to end there, but then the girls did something that made me smile so of course I have to share it!
After the boys were asleep I went back downstairs to the girls' rooms. Here they both sit in Jordyn's room looking through American Girl magazines just talking away to each other. When I tell them it is time for bed Jordyn says, "I wish Abby could sleep in here tonight". So I said, "That's fine" and Jordyn smiles from ear to ear. "Oh this is so exciting, this is awesome, it'll be great, oh I should go help Abby bring her stuff in." Wow, if this is all it takes to get them this excited I have got it made, for now anyway. I remember having sleepovers with my friends when I was young, especially Amy, and we would talk forever. I just had brothers, but my girls have each other and that is so wonderful. Abby said the other day that a kid in her class was lucky because he was the only kid at his house and Jordyn said, "That would be boring", then Abby agrees and they start playing together.
I just think it is great that God lets me see that they really do love each other and having them this close together hasn't messed them up too bad, ha ha.

I am hungry, already!

It can never just be normal here, or at least it seems that way. We go from one journey to another and I am hungry on this journey. I will start by saying we have chosen this one, or it is a path we are being taken down. We are going gluten-free, for now.
Yes, I said gluten-free! When the doctor told me that Steeven could not have dairy, anything dairy, I was a little overwhelmed at first. Then I realized that out of all of the food allergies out there dairy was the easiest to deal with. Even when I was walking through the isles at Hy-Vee with the dietician she made the comment, "Well at least it is just dairy and not gluten." As I think back to that moment I now realize she has cursed us!! Just kidding.
Three out of the four of our children have some "problem" that we are dealing with. Abby has always needed a pull-up at night, Carter has been seeing a Gastroantologist for over a year and Steeven still has some diarrhea plus watery eyes and nose. A couple of weeks ago I was at our chiropractor's office and he always asks about the kids. After I ran down the list he shared something that his wife figured out for two of their children. She took her family off gluten for two weeks and both kids' symptoms were gone. I don't think they follow a strict gluten-free diet now, but maybe they watch how much they are taking in daily. Once their systems were cleaned out they can now tell how much is too much.
So, here we go on another adventure! We started yesterday, Monday, and I am already feeling hungry. Is it all in my mind? I think most of it is. Steeven doesn't know any different, he just eats whatever I give him and is happy. It's the rest of us that need help with our selfish food habits. I really think that is it. I mean really, it has only been two days and I am already thinking....when the kids go to bed I could have some of the "daycare only" food. How sad is that right? Thankfully God is telling me, "If you are making your kids do it then you must do it too!"
At the grocery store Sunday as I put all of my items on the check-out counter I had a little talk with God. It was mostly one sided until it was time to pay, then he spoke to me. It went something like this, Me "This is going to cost a lot, I only have a certain amount of money, You are leading us down this path, I am doing what is best for my family, it's very healthy, PLEASE let me have enough money!!!!!" God "The amount is_______, now you realize I have this under control right?"
He always does that! I talk, talk, talk and talk some more, just rambling really. Then he does something, usually a one liner, and makes me realize that he is it. He is part of my everyday life, good and bad.
So, we are just finishing up day two, ugh, only 12 more days to go more or less. I really hope my kids can see a difference in their bodies after this, but then the selfish part hopes we can really eat again. Just being honest! I do like certain challenges and this does qualify as just that. I haven't gotten too far into the gluten-free thing yet, since i am not sure if there will be a need to continue it long term. We'll see I guess. Wish me luck :).

Trip

We are going to West Des Moines this weekend to visit family. Mostly to see my grandpa Gail. I really can't write enough about him, he is like no other person I know. Very special man. I am, however, at this very moment realizing that when we introduce Steeven to grandpa we will not be doing the same with my dear grandma Rachel. She passed away last summer and one of the things that pained me the most is that she would never be able to get to know my new son, her new grandson.
Oh my goodness how hard this is, it really just hit me. Why does God allow this stuff to hit me when I really should be finishing up getting ready for this trip? If I don't write it down it will leave me and it needs to be expressed. I need this good cry so that, hopefully, I don't loose it in front of my grandpa. Who am I kidding, the two of us will probably loose it together. He is an emotional man, I so love that about him. Even though it makes me cry just seeing him crying, what a cycle.
My grandparents were like second parents to me, so we have a very strong emotional bond. Because I live a good distance away I don't think I have ever fully mourned the passing of my grandma. Life gets in the way and sometimes I just don't take the time, like I am now, when feelings come to deal with them. I am a stuffer! You know, when bad feelings come just stuff them down and move on. The problem with that, I am finding, is that they keep coming back, ugh!
So, this trip will be a hard one, I am just realizing. I in no way have prepared myself for this, as I was expecting just another trip.
*Side note, I have a little haitian boy yelling, "Da Da Da Da Da Da Da Da Batman" as he is walking around the livingroom.
I guess this snaps me back to reality and it is time for me to finish getting ready for this trip. I am glad I got this out, the tears have stopped for now. I look like a mess with swollen eyes and a red face, oh well, it's a long trip so my face will clear up before we get there!

What's in a name?

Okay, so I took Steeven to school yesterday morning to go over all the results of the tests they did a couple of weeks ago. By the way the ladies at Brandon Elementary that work in this department are wonderful, just had to say that. Anyway, I wasn't feeling the best which I guess is an understatement since following this appointment I went to the doctor who told me my allergies were causing drainage in my throat and, oh ya, I had strep!!
Back to my origianl story. I was at a little circle table with four other ladies, OT, PT, Speech and the director and we all had the same papers in front of us as each lady talked about their part about Steevie. I was doing fine, rolling right along when we came to a page that had his name written out, Steeven I. Christensen. Do any of you catch that? Look again! Even as I type this I am getting choked up, because of the visual, Steeven I. Christensen.
When I had origianlly met with these ladies I expressed my desire for him to learn to write his name as it would be after the adoption is final and we can get his name changed. For some reason I wasn't expecting any reaction, I mean really why would I have a reaction during a meeting like this? Well I did and and it was a big one! Sobbing with a hoarse and very sore throat and I don't think many of the ladies had a dry eye after they realized what my "problem" was. All I could do was point to the paper, because no words would come out, and at first they thought there was an error which would mean I am a freak to react in such a way to an error on the page.
Today as I have thought about this I have been wondering why this is so important to me. Isn't it funny how we, mostly women, can be so sensitive to the littlest of things/details? Don't get me wrong, Wade sees the importance of the name, but wow is all I can say about my reaction. I love that God made me sensitive, he might have overdone it a little but who am I to tell God that :). It seems to have gotten worse over the years, after children that is. The more kids we have the easier I cry! I have to wrap this up because my throat burns everytime I get choaked up, which is why besides being busy I have been working at this post since this morning and it is now 5:00pm.
Okay, so what I am saying is that seeing Steeven's name the way it will be someday really brought out my emotions. Steeven I. Christensen was given to us as a gift from God, just like our other kids, only the way that God planned it carries special significance to me I guess, please don't "hear" what I am not saying. It does for the other three kids as well. They prayed for him for over two years, that he would be part of their family soon. For the first couple fo months Abby would say to God, "Thank you that Steeven is so crazy", meaning wild. She loved it, go figure! When God makes me wait for something I always learn more about myself, see changes I need to make, and then appreciate whatever it finally happens. Obviously I am a slow learner because most of the things between God and I take ahwile to come about. Oh well, he loves me anyway!
The significance in a name is unique to each individual. In my family we gave Jordyn the middle name Lee, which is mine and my mother's. Abby is Abigail Mae, my grandfather's name is Gail, my grandma's name was Ida Mae, and Wade's moms' middle name is Mae. Wade and his dads' middle names are Dean so that is Carter's middle name as well. Steeven's given name is Steevenson Herman Israel, we will give him the name Steeven Israel Christensen. We are keeping the spelling of his first name that way because it is unique and so is he. His birth mother is a very special lady and will always hold a special place in our hearts. I hope that she would be proud of our decision.

God's Love

Yesterday my step-mom, which I do hate calling her that, Valinda, called me to share her observations of our new family and God's love. I have had this thought many times during the adoption process as well. It was great for her to share with me though.
Today as one of my daycare boys came in the house, Steeven got so excited, even giddy. Abby made the best comment ever, "Steeven is a bundle of joy!" She really said that, what a great kid. God has really blessed me in that area. All four of them are truely wonderful. Of course they all have their moments, just like the rest of us, but really they are great kids. To see how they have taken Steeven and loved him like he has always been here is remarkable. This is not lost on me. It comes to mind daily and my thoughts go to God, who has prearranged all of this.
What must he think as he looks down and sees his plan in motion? When I think of something and follow through with it and it goes well I am pretty pleased with myself, you know. I wonder if he feels that way? Well he is God so he doesn't have the problem with selfish pride. He is probably proud of his creation, being us, and I can feel him smiling at me. Like when one of my kids does something great and I think, wow he/she is really something.
Back to God's love. It really is hard to comprehend how much God loves us and why he even does. We are broken and messed up and aren't even his blood relative yet he has offered us an equal place in his family and his unconditional love. Adoption is the closest earthly comparison for me. Going through the paper process was one thing, but actually having Steevie here is another. It gives me an even greater understanding of God's love.
I had many thoughts that would run through my head about what it would be like when we brought Steeven home. Would it be instant love, would the kids do all right together, would he be accepting of us, would he even like me, would I be willing to parent him like he needs or not want to make him sad? When we met Steeven in the airport I must say that none of these thoughts went through my head, it was like he was finally with us and life was continuing on without really missing a beat. He loved us, responded to us and the feeling was very mutual. When the kids met each other there was a short time of just realizing that he was actaully here, after over two years of them being dedicated to praying for him it was actually real now. Carter struggled some with what to do about Steeven's runny nose and eyes, but he got over that rather quickly. I would find myself wondering what they must be thinking and how they could just love him without being able to fully grasp what was happening. I think as adults we do think too much about things sometimes. Kids just "do" and it comes naturally. My prayer for myself I guess would be that God would help me in that area. I think waaaaaaaaay too much sometimes and it wastes a lot of my time.
Now to Steeven, what a kid! All that he has been through and experienced and yet I can see how in God's infinite wisdom Steeven has been prepared for all of this. God has given Steeven such a personality that he just rolls with the flow, so to speak. He was the only kid, or adult for that matter, where he lived that wasn't terrified of the earhtquake. That's right, he even liked it. He enjoyed his trip to Miami and has been enjoying things ever since. The only two things that are "bad" to him are the dog and the hospital. The dog is growing on him though. I did pray that God would be doing this, getting all of us ready for what was to come, and he is a faithful God who listens to his children. I am so thankful.
Now, having said all of this, I have to say that I am not going into this journey blindly. God does not tell us that when we follow where he leads us everything will go smoothly. Just look at Steeven's hospital experience and the families/income I have lost from daycare. I do know though, that God will see us through all of this and he knows what is yet to come.
Thank you God for your love and how you have shown us the importance of adoption as you have done it with us. What an example you have set for us! I am also thankful that you have given me a little glimpse of your love through the way we love Steeven, my son. Help us to be aware that how we live our lives is an example to others as well. Amen.

Hair Dresser

Well I have added a "skill" to my mommy/wife resume: Hair Dresser. I don't think I really am qualified for this title, well I know I am not, but it has been added anyway. Today I cut all three boys' hair. Steeven's was the easiest because I can just shave it, but it was hard to watch the other two as their hair came falling off. Wade, of course, loves it, but I will just have to get use to it I guess. I am no Dawn, our hair dresser, but for a while my abilities will have to be good enough.
There is no way, however, that I will be cutting mine or the girls'. Thankfully we are all three letting ours grow so we don't have to go very often. Now, if I could just figure out how to do those darn eyebrows I would have it made!

Random Thoughts

I haven't blogged in a while so here are some random thoughts.
I worked out at the mall today and I still can't believe they give me a discount for the little amount of time I spend there. I'm sure it is because I am such a great employee :)! Abby asked me the other day why I work so much and if I like it. Part of what I told her is that I don't always like to work on the weekends, but after I get there I have a good time. I guess honesty is good, right" I figure that she will learn soon enough that you don't always want to do something, but sometimes you ahve to. This just shows how kids think in the moment and don't always see the big picture because I only work twice a month at the mall so it is not like I am gone all the time working, thankfully.
I had an Usborne book party at my house last night and it actually went really well. I had a huge guest list, even the consultant's husband commented on the number of people I invited because he mailed the cards for her. You know the rule they always tell you, over invite because a very small number actually show up, well it is true! I'm sure this gal will now use my party as an example of this. Oh well, as of last night I had earned $50 in free books and I still ahve some more orders coming in.
Carter has pink eye, ugh. Poor little guy, at lest he doesn't mind the drops. The wonderful doctor wouldn't give him a perscription for Sinus infection, and Wade said she didn't even check his nose, but said his ears look good, REALLY?! I vented to Wade of course and said, "Doesn't she know that the infection is what caused the pink eye, just like Jordyn, and if we don't treat the real problem what's the point?" He agreed and we have moved on, it might not sound like it, but I have moved on.
Wade and the kids are outside playing and Wade just came in and asked about Dakota Vision's warranty. Why you ask? Good question, that would be due to the fact that Steeven's glasses must have fallen off and he then ran them over with his bike. Wade told me he came in the garage and the frames were bent and the lenses, still in one piece, were in different parts of the garage! Now Steeven is squinting at everything and of course Dakota Vision closed at 1:00 today and do not open again until Monday.
Speaking of Steeven riding a bike, he really does! With training wheels, but still he loves the bike. The only problem is that he also tries to ride the bigger kids' bikes, always up for a challenge he is. He is loving this weather and the fact that he can be outside. We are too!

Jordyn's Birthday

Well today Jordyn turns 9, wow! She started out the day feeling very sassy and grown-up making us wonder what the day would bring. She told Wade many times that he was acting weird and he should stop. She even went as far as to tell him that he couldn't act that way at her party! he of course just laughed and said he has been acting this way for over 9 years so why would he stop now, he he.
Since she really doesn't "need" anything I took her to get her first pedicure! I must admit I was a little jealous as I sat there beside her with feet in desperate need of attention, maybe too much information for you. She liked it, for the most part. I ahd to reminder a couple of times that beauty doesn't always feel good, good life lesson right? She chose a pretty green color, new for spring. i was proud of her for choosing something totally different from her norm of pink.
Then we went to Carousel Skate for her party. That's right, Wade and I were there with 10 kids and that does include all of ours. We even skated! The girls really did a good job, I helped some of her friends for a little while, but not long. The boys, who have never been on skates, loved it. Carter went out by himeslf, along the wall, a few times and Steeven was like a wild man on wheels. Both were very fun to watch!
Then it was off to Joey's Seafood and grill. Jordyn is a huge fan of almost all things seafood! I called ahead and spoke with the owner about Steeven's allergy and we were able to work something out for him too. I think it was a great birthday overall. Wade and I are exhausted and the kids are tired, so it must have been a great party!
I can't believe she is already 9. She is such a great girl and I am not just saying that. I appreciate her even more as she is getting older and I see her gifts that God has given her. Each child is special and I am glad, even though it makes it harder, that all four of ours are so different yet alike. I am blessed indeed.

Frosting, YUM!

Okay, so I just made the frosting and it is great! A little goes a long way though, wow it is sweet. One would think that after seeing how much powdered sugar and butter, dairy-free of course, goes into one batch of frosting one might think twice about eating it, right? No way! It is good and I made it from scratch and I will eat it!
Also, what should a person do when you have frosted the container of cupcakes and don't want to cram them all back in because it will mess up the frosting? Of course that lonely cupcake must be eaten! Who would be willing to make such a sacrifice? I guess I would and did. Yes, the three boys were out of the kitchen playing and I enjoyed it all By Myself :).
YUMMY!

Cupcakes

I was trying to be a good steward of our money so I bought cake mixes on sale a couple of weeks ago at Hy-Vee. Don't you love it when people point out how good their original intentions were when their plans have to change :)! Anyway, fast forward to last week when we found out Steeven has a dairy allergy. One of the first things that came to mind was, what are we going to do about the kids' birthday parties in March?
Thankfully you can find just about everything on the "worldwide web", as my grandma called it. So I searched and found a couple of recipes that I thought might work. Yesterday Steeven and I went shopping and got all the ingredients so we could experiment today. After the kids went to school this morning Steeven and I began making cupcakes.
Do you like to lick the beaters after making batter, or lick your finger whenever you can as you are making batter? For me it is one of my favorite parts of baking, until now. As the mixer is doing it's thing I attempt a taste. To say it is lacking something is an understatement, but we proceed. When the first round of cupcakes are done I let them cool and then take them out of the pan. Not only did the batter taste bad and look ingredibly runny, the finished product didn't feel like it had cooked all the way through and was pretty "heavy". At that point I had mentally written off the cupcakes, seriously. I gave them some time to cool then I unwrapped one of the chocolately bundles and to my surprise it didn't stick to the wrapper, as I had imagined it would. This is a good sign, I thought to myself. So I took a bite, with Steeven looking at me the whole time. To my pleasant surprise they were very good! So good that I wished he hadn't have been standing there watching because then I had to share it with him.
So the cupcakes are very good and I have it covered now for both parties this month. On a unecessarily sad note, I will no longer be indulging myself in batter. Tonight I will attempt the frosting!

Really?

Okay, so this is a little glimse into what it is now like to get Steeven to take meds since his surgery.
It started Sunday morning, and has happened multiple times since.
Sunday he wakes up in pain, ugh. As he is sitting on the potty we decide we better give him some pain med because it is overdue. Steeven had other thoughts, as I placed the chewable tablet in his mouth! He is pretty mad at us at this point so he throws his head back, goes limp, eyes roll back and he hits his head on the toilet. Holy cow kid, really! So I jerk him off the toilet and it jolts him enough to get him going again. This is the worst thing ever, even worse than the iv ordeal. Now you may be asking, "Kristi why did you give him a tablet and not liquid?" Good question. He hated the liquid in the hospital so I didn't even want to go there. He takes his allergy tablet great so it was a no brainer to just go with the tablet.
He has had this reaction at different times when we have tried giving him meds since surgery. The most recent was last night, when I was gone at church. Poor Wade. So Steeven is on eye drops for a week after surgery, he took them fine for me yesterday afternoon, but with papa it is a different story. So, what does Wade do to get him to take the drops? Bribe him with candy, oh yes he does. How does Steeven react to this? He sits still and lets Wade put the drops in with no problem! I do not know what this will mean for me today when I try to do it, but you can bet I will not be giving little Steevie candy for freaking out about his eye drops!
Thankfully he does not do this everytime we give him meds. It just seems to depend on his mood, but when he needs meds for pain we can't really wait for him to be in a good mood everytime.

Surgery

I thought I better try to get this typed in before my memory bank fills up with new adventures, and not so fun stuff. Steeven had surgery last Tuesday and was supposed to be released from the hospital the next day. They wanted to keep him 23 hours for observation since he is so small and we had no prior family history of surgery.
So Steeven and I leave for the hospital early Tuesday morning at 5:00, it is still dark out folks and that is early! He does great waiting in admissions and then we go up to the pediatric unit on the 3rd floor. The nurse that takes his history and gets him ready is so excited that Steeven is from Haiti. She had just went to a benefit concert for Haiti in Canton, IA on Sunday, which we had planned on going to as well only Steeven woke at at 4:45 that morning and was in no shape to go anywhere that night. So another "it's a small world" example, turns out that her son knows Adam Sieff who is a friend of ours as well and he was one of the performers at the concert :). All the nurses love Steeven because he is being his charming adorable self and all morning I hear, "Weren't you in the newspaper", we get that a lot lately.
The Child Life Specialist, seriously this is a title, comes in and exlpains what I can expect which was very helpful. She also escorts us to the room we were in prior to surgery and basically hangs out with us because when it is time for surgery she walks in with me, which I think is great. The entire time Steeven is being a ham, playing with the oh so flattering hat that both of us have to wear, trying on masks, singing, climbing on things, and on and on. Then it was time for surgery...I hold Steeven's hand as he is rolled back on a bed and of course I am being very positive making a way bigger deal out of this just to make him feel good, that is my job as the mom. It worked because he did great! He wasn't afraid of all the wierd people in gowns and masks that were talking in a strange language, English. He hopped from his bed to the surgery table with no problems, because he is cool like that. They put his maks on so he could breath the sleepy stuff and off he went into la la land. As I turn to leave I see his head go back and they say something about his airway, which I thought was all normal becase nobody was too excited about it.
Then the wait begins. They gave me a pager and when it beeped it would show a number that told where they were at in the process. So, surgery started at 7:17am, yes I am anal so I wrote it all down. At 7:25 his eye doc comes out and is finished with his part of the surgery, probing the tear ducts. He said that the right side was fine, btu the left side was a little blocked. Actually he said, "The tube went right down his right side with no problem, but on the left side there was a little pop and then it went through", and there were hand actions to go along with! At this point my eyes are hurting a little, thanks doc!
Side note: at this point I still ahve nto had any coffee, this is a big deal!
Then at 8:00 surgery was done. Shortly after that the ENT doc comes out and meets with me saying that things went well and telling me about the follow-up appointment and so on. He then says that it will take them about 30-45 minutes to get him to the recovery room.
Wade gets to the hospital, with coffee and muffins around 8:45 to join me in the wait. At 9:00 the pager beeps that Steeven is in the recover room, a little later than he should've been, but what do I know? Then, I'm not sure when because things didn't go as planned so I couldn't type them time in my iPod, a nurse comes out and asks us to come back into the recovery room because Steeven is having a hard time and she thinks we can be of help.
It turns out that Sttven did not repsond well after surgery when they removed his breathing tube and they ahd to put it in 3 different times! This would lead to his oxygen levels being messed up for about 4 days. He finally gets to a point where they let him go up to the pediatric unit where his room was. Shortly after that Wade had to leave to get Carter from school and then they came back up a little while later.
That was how is went for the entire 5 days Steeven was in the hospital, running back and forth trying to make sure the other three had someone to care for them too. We had planned on 2 days but were not prepared for 5!
Steeven was very lathargic the first 2 days so he slept a lot, when he wasn't moaning or throwing up. It took some time to get the pain and nausia meds figured out for him and it didn't help that he wouldn't eat or drink. Pain meds on an empty stomach do not sit well! The rest of the time in the hospital was not plesent either. Steeven did not want to do anything really, but leave! he refused to drink, ate very little, would not play or smile or even laugh. I really believe he was depressed.
Then on the 5th day, Saturday, the sky parted and heaven shown down on our little room....Steeven began to drink! Now, in true Steeven style, he refused all drinks unless they were in a juice box. Really kid! He would walk with us around the ped unit, but still would really not play with anything. The doctor decided that it was improvement enough an let him come home. I think the problems he continued to have with oxygen were caused, mostly, by the swelling in his throat. Even to this day, Tuesday, he is having a hard time sleeping and whne he gets upset, watch out!
Now, looking ahead we have another surgery this summer. I have no idea what that one will bring and really do not want to think about it right now.

Thanks God for turning the tables on me, again.

What a title right? Well by now you would think that I should've learned not to place judgement on others, but I must confess that I am still learning. Okay, to be honest it is not just the judgement thing but also me stating or proclaiming my own plan and then even years down the road God changes it on me and I feel stupid for having openly stated my life one way and it is turning out another. I have no current expamples of the plan proclaiming, but I do have a recent one of the ever so kind judgement of others.
So, enter one little haitian into my life and things aren't as they used to be. Not that they ever are when you add to your family, no matter how you go about doing it. My example, I choose to believe, is not so different from most people out there at least that is what helps me sleep at night :). So my example may not be exactly what you have said, but give me a break and at least admit that you have done something similar, please. Example: Families out in public with a child on a "leash". My comment has been, "I couldn't ever see myself using one of those. My kids stay by me for the most part, don't everyone's?" Now, back to the present time when Steeven enters our lives. I like to compare him to the Tasmanian Devil, but don't get more out of this than intended.
Side note: I tend to find myself trying to be careful about my comments about Steeven when I never do about our other three. Is that because I don't want people to take what I am saying the wrong way? Probably. From here on out realize that as I write about my kids and family I love them all with everything I am and would not even for a second change what God has given me. Good, now that is covered and I can move on!
The Tasmanian Devil as you might remember from old cartoons destroys everything in his path, acts very wild, is out of control, oh and he drools if I remember right. Steeven has similar characteristics :). Which brings us back to the "judging others" issue. The longer Steeven is here the more I feel the undesireable need to get a leash! Yes, I said it, my child requires a leash! There you go God, take something I made a comment about and make it applicable to my life. Gotta love it. So what do I do, I post a comment on facebook to get a feel for what others think about the leash. What do you think the comments were? Well of course everyone loves them and are "pro leash" so that just leaves me as the only one who judged those poor families :(, insert bad feelings about myself here.
You would think I would learn, but I must admit that I still haven't gotten this one yet. A little pat on my back for improvement though. The thing is, why do we as a people look at situations from the outside and make our own unfounded judgements almost automatically? Like the "leash" thing, I never once considered that a child might have special needs, been adopted and not aware of boundaries yet, or whatever the situation might be. Even better yet, is it really my place to put my judgement on someone else just because I might not agree with them? For some reason I tend to see things in my own bubble of life. Meaning that I hold everything I see up to compare it with my life. Sometimes that leads to judging others, but more often than not it actually leads to me judging myself and putting unrealistic expectations on myself and my family. Ugh, this has turned into a therapy session, well at least it is free!

Worst Appointment Ever

Well I have to admit that I am not as young as I used to be, or maybe I can just blame it on my fibro. I think both are factors really. I took Steeven to see our gastro. doc yesterday and Carter came along too. It started out great, the nurse even had Carter do everything so Steeven could watch and this was great for both boys. Carter knows what to do by now because he has been going to this doc for a year now. The doctor came in and we talked for a while and then he layed out his plan of attack, which really meant nothing to me until the lady came to draw blood.
First I must say that a red flag was waved in front of me as the "blood lady" peeked her head in and asked me something along the lines of, "Do we need more people to help during the blood draw", ugh! Also, before that the nurse peeked in because we had been waiting so long, and explained it was taking them a little while to get everything ready for the blood draw and to send home for stool samples. Yes, I resumed my role as sole poop collector for this house, a great smell right after breakfast each morning I must say.
Okay, so I told the gal that the last time Steeven had blood drawn I held him, someone held his arm and someone took the blood. That was the plan we went with, but we were wrong! The vein they picked was along the side of his arm and we all underestimated this little man's strength. They got some, but he turned his arm and it didn't go well. So, change of plans, bring in another helper and switch arms. Keep in mind I have him facing me and holding him not so gently, but talking to him repeatedly in his ear as he cries and cries.
Now there are four of us with a 37lb. little guy and he is still winning. How? Well, even with all of us working together he manages to tense his little arm, and rightfully so, as he does this it lessens to blood flow. Again, they got some, but not enough. Side note here, don't forget that I have Carter along for this ride because I did not expect anything like this! Somewhere between Plan A and Plan B Carter asks if he can go out in the hall to play, "Of course buddy and you can take your toys if you want." He also has been telling Steeven the whole time, "It's okay buddy", how precious is that? Later he told me when he saw the blood it made him not feel well, ugh.
Plan C, finally, they gave us a little break and then we went back to just three grown ladies and one five year old. The plan this time is to take blood from the top of his hand. It worked and they got what they needed. I switched my plan as well, I braced myself with my left foot against a near by table because of all days I picked today to wear running pants, aka slippery pants! We were done, finally.
I think I forgot to mention that I was sobbing, controlably, during Plan B. When we were done we were both sweaty and exhausted. Carter came back in and the doc in the hallway had given him two bouncy balls! Steeven held on to his like crazy. He was almost alseep in my arms by the time we left. We got there at 1:45 and were driving to get an x-ray at 4:00. Yes, we still had one more thing to do!
As we were leaving I called home and left a message for Wade so he would know where we were and what we still had to do. I must have sounded awful because he didn't got to his meeting that night, thanks hon! Did I mention I had fibromyalgia? What can cause flares you ask, well stress and tensing of muslces are just two things. STRESS and TENSE MUSCLES! So as I am leaving I am feeling that entire appointment in my neck, shoudlers, arms and hands. I can only imagine what was going through Steeven's little head.
I don't even have the energy to get into details about the x-ray appointment. Let's just say we got the run around and I finally found a lady that saw how desperately exhausted I was and she took pity on us, because I cried, and we were able to hang in there and he hopped up on the table and was perfectly still for his tummy picture! Insert huge sigh here!
What happened next? We all had McDonald's in the comfort of our home and the boys both got cupcakes for dessert! Boys, you rock :)

Garbage Can and Wal-Mart Sales Associate

Well it is President's Day today, so that means no school. It has been a blessing to have them home though, for a couple of reasons. First, no rushing around this morning, love it! Second, entertainment for Steeven, other than just myself. Last, but probably most important, Jordyn can help me while Abby throw-s up!
Yes, Abby is sick...throw up sick, yuck! Steeven had an eye doctor appointment today and when we got there Abby did not look good. So while we waited I said, do you want to sit in the fan and sleep a little? She did, and being the great mom I am I sent Jordyn out with her with strick instructions about locking the doors and if Abby needed to throw up, OPEN THE VAN DOOR! (Just a side note, we were at a very small clinic and the appointment was a quick one.) To my surprise when I got to the van Abby had slept some and felt better! Okay so that should free me up to finish my other stop at Wal-Mart, right? Not a lot to get there, but a couple things that we really needed, otherwise I would've just went home.
That brings us to Wal-Mart. I do want to say that I have not been impressed with them lately, but sometimes I just need to get some things. On this trip, however, I was very grateful for two things.....strategically placed garbage cans and a helpful sales associate! We were almost done, but still at the back of the store when I noticed Abby looked pale, yes ghostly white. You know the look, it means you don't have long before she blows! So we begin to walk to the front of the store at a good rate of speed. Not too fast as to draw attention to us, but not too slow so we can't make it. I tell Abby, very calmly, we will find a garbage can. Then, ta da, I spot one and not too far away. It was at the end of an isle so we pushed our cart up to it and waited. It took a couple of minutes, but then it hit and we were prepared!!! I held the lid to the can and asked Jordyn to get the wipes from our bag. After Abby was done, I cleaned up the little bit she got on the lid and then her mouth and hand, with different wipes of course. As I was doing this I noticed an associate down the isle, so I sent Jordyn to get her. I told her what had happened and she didn't seem too surprised. She said they would take care of it and I asked her where the garbage cans were that I could purchase, since we still were not checked out and we had the van ride home. When she pointed to the other side of the store, I must have had an interesting look on my face because she offered to go to the front and get a bag for us. Way to go Sales Associate, you rock! Now that I think about it I should've gotten her name so I could sing her praises to her manager, too late now I guess.
Thankfully we made it all the way home with no messes! She is resting fine on the couch watching movies and drinking some sprite, which was strategically placed at the end of an isle on our way out, woohoo! It is only 1:30, so we will see what the rest of the day holds for us.
Since no one seemed to be bothered by us hovering around the garbage can and the sales associate was not the least bit taken back by what had occured the question needs to be asked. How often do I miss these, and other interesting things going on, as I make my way through stores? HMMMMMMMMMM.

Nothing Much

Well, nothing much is new lately at least no bust-a-gut stories I felt just had to be told. Does that mean that our little guy is already settling in? Maybe. I guess he did eat powdered dishwasher detergent this weekend, so there is a little something for you to laugh at.
This week looks to be a busy one, but I kinda prefer them that way for the simple fact that too many days spent in one's home can lead to boredom and naughty kids! No school tomorrow so I will be taking all four kids to Steeven's check-up at the eye doctor. It should be a quick appointment and the kids want to "see" what goes on. Get it, "see" ha! That was pretty sad wasn't it? Anyway, then Steeven goes to a new doctor, for him anyway, on Tuesday to try to determine what is causing his diarrhea. Thankfully all of his tests have come back negative, but his stool is still pretty bad. He will be seeing the same Gastroantologist that Carter does, woohoo! Yes, we will have two kids going to a specialist, bring on the doctor bills! Carter actually has an appointment with him in two weeks. Then on Wednesday he goes for another haircut, boy does it grow fast! Actually all three boys and myself will be getting our hair cut, should be fun! Don't forget the two chiropractic visits for him this week as well.
The glasses are a big hit, he doesn't mind them at all. Sometimes he takes them off, but it doesn't bother him when we put them back on. When he woke up this morning, at 5:45 UGH, he wanted his glasses right away. I think it helps that daddy has glasses too, so they must be cool!
I feel like the time is flying by and I have not done even a portion of what I "needed" to. I know, I know some of you will say, "Don't worry about it. Spending time with Steeven and now having four kids is enough right now, you will get use to it and fall into a routine." I knew you would say that and for the most part I agree, but there is always that side of me, the icky perfectionist side, that thinks I should be able to Conquer The World and am disappointed when I fall short. That and just the basic stressers of life that I just need to either push aside or plow through, note to self I should probably ask God which action I should apply to which problem. I can get into trouble when I forget to do that sometimes.
Tonight we atempt to reclaim our bed! Steeven has never gotten up in the middle of the night yet, so we will stil put him to sleep in our room and then move him when we go to bed. One big reason for this is so Carter will be alseep before we bring Steeven in. Steeven has quite the little snoring problem! I think this will be fine, and Wade did the little happy dance when I mentioned it this morning. So, being the sarcastic loving wife I am, on Valentine's day no less, I said, "Well, maybe if you had mentioned that you wanted to do this it would've happened sooner. That is what you call sharing your feelings or communication, it's suppose to be a good thing." So of course he laughed, because by now he knows to expect such an answer from me!
Well, thanks for humoring me by following our journey, sometimes exciting and sometimes mundane but mine none the less.

Kids Gone Mad!

Well we have had a great past couple of days, where did those come from? With the exception of last night.
We had our post placement interview and that went well, but coupled with that was an interview for our local christian radio station. The guy arrived late, which really is no big deal, but what we thought was going to be some basic questions was really a video recorded interview, come on! Now, normally had we known that this was going to take place we would have threatened, I mean preped the kids for what was going to happen and how they should act during this! So, having said that you can guess how this went down. The guy arrived about 5:00 and after some technical difficulties we wrapped it up around 6:00, yes in the evening, yes past supper time, yes Steeven skipped his nap yesterday as well.
As we sat in our living room chatting with him, on camera, our kids acted like wild things. I must say that Jordyn was not involved in any of this, except for trying to keep the peace. Steeven was pulling on the guys arm, dragging toys everywhere and ripping up one of Carter's papers. You can imagine how well that went over, I thought I might have to step in to that siuation, but no need it cleared up on it's own. Abby was waving the Star Wars light saver in front of the camera, then she went into the kitchen, still in view of the camera, and continued to wave it freely. Carter was acting like a kid on crack, not that I know what that would look like, but I can now imagine. The entire time our social worker is behind the camera recording, oh yes the whole time.
After having described this to you it sounds really bad, doesn't it? Actually it seemed horrible at the time, but I'm sure it will turn out fine. You know how parents always think it is worse than it really is. Wade and I were very exhausted afterwards though, we just sat and looked at each other for awhile and Wade said, "I don't think I have another one of those in me"! The man that came out was extremely nice and very considerate so that helped. He also isn't married and has no children, so you can bet he was cheering inside when he left!
Oh yes, another intersting day at the Christensen house!

Almost Besties!

Well there has been a sudden turn in events, or should I say attitude, at our house. Steeven wants to hold Oscar, and he doesn't care if Oscar wants him to or not! That's right, we have gone from a little boy who was terrified of Oscar to a little boy that is obsessed with holding him. What happens if Oscar growls and tries to get away, well of course Steeven just keeps going after him. He still has some fear, but if he is in "the mood" there is little stopping him from getting that dog. I don't think Oscar knows what is happening!
It gets better! Steeven likes to pretend to actually be a dog, really. He woofs, walks on all fours, "paws" at you and don't forget he will lick anything. Yes, he licks the floor, people, the couch and whatever else he sees Oscar licking. So what do I do, I pet him and tell him he is a good little doggie. I wonder that will do for his adjustment, just kidding :o)!

Monkey

Well, Wade predicted it. Steeven just pulled the t.v. right off the stand!!!! Can't get those glasses soon enough. He stand so close to the t.v. to see it and then sometimes he holds on to it and tries to climb. Well, this morning he pulled it right off the stand. Thank God no one was hurt, oh and the t.v. still works! Interesting way to start the day I guess.

Nap Time, UGH!

Well I have to admit that we haven't had nap time at the Christensen house for a number of years now, but I have been thrust back into it. Does Steeven want to nap, NO, does Steeven need to nap, YES, does Steeven get a nap everyday, NO.
So I will describe what nap time was like today for Mr. Steeven. I started at 1:30, so that is fair on my part right? I close the curtains cover him up and slowly he starts testing me. Rolls this way, then that way, then on his knees, then on his back, then to his stomach then covers are off then on, then pillow is up, down, sideways, have I lost you yet? All of this occurs while I patiently sing the song I have sung to him since his first night here, Jesus Loves Me. Did I stop singing to tell him to "lay still" or "stop doing that", NOOOOOOOOOOOO. I kept my cool and figured he would just give in, boy was I wrong. Finally I stopped singing as he began to kick the wall, not hard or out of anger, but just because he could you know.
Oh, I forgot to mention that I did take his pillow away. Then, after doing so, but still singing the song, a thought occurs to me, "He has never slept on a pillow so do you really think it matters to him that I took it away, probably not." Do I give it back to him, no way. I guess I am too stubborn and wanted to prove a point, yes to a 5 year old!
It is now 2:15 and he is sound asleep, has been for the last 15 minutes. What a strong little guy, I absolutely love him.

Ugli Fruit

Carter tried a sample of an ulgi fruit at Hy-Vee today. He really liked it so he asked, what is that called. I said, "It's an ugli fruit" and he said, "What?" so I explained it to him. I told him it is called an ugli fruit so it must be a boy's fruit because boys would really appreciate a fruit named UGLI. The lady handing out the samples thought that was quite funny!

Nothing Really

Well, not much is really happening around here right now. Last night we went and picked out some incredibly cute glasses for an already cute little boy. His prescription is so strong that they have to order them and it will take about a week, so yes he still stands in front of the television, sorry kids. The problem now is that the other three think they need to stand there also, so that means four kids in front of a small t.v. and some whining because they really can't all fit there!

Carter started basketball today,w e had signed him up before we knew our lives would be getting so busy. All of us went, yes all 6, and it was a small challenge keeping the little Haitian off the courts! So an educated decision was made: Wade and I will alternate who takes Carter, Steeven will stay home and the girls can decide what they want to do. Carter did great by the way, he is such a neat boy.

We had some lunch and then went grocery shopping at Hy-Vee. The boys rode in the car cart and the girls helped shop, it actually went well. When we got home the girls' friends had called and wanted them over for a play date, the dad even came to get them! So now it is me and the boys, that included Wade. I made a dip for the game tomorrow, vacuumed and am catching up on laundry, which I knows multiplies in the hampers, while Wade played some Wii with Carter and is now cleaning. He is a great guy!

Our small group meets tonight so I will be going to that. Usually the group meets in our home, but with the addition of Steeven we are taking a break from that so our friends have graciously offered to have it at their house. We have been meeting for about 7 years now and always have a great time together. We love our group!

Tomorrow we are attempting church for the second time with Steeven. Last week we went to the second service and I think it got to be a long busy morning for our little guy. We are going to try the first service tomorrow, which is what we usually do, then Steeven and I will come home and the rest of them will stay. The kids go to Sunday School and Wade helps in the finance department during second service. This is the plan for a little while until we think Steeven can handle going to Sunday School with me. I help in the kindergarten room and he can just stay with me. That would mean he would be there from 9:00-11:45 and have a lot of stimulation pretty much the whole time so we will see how that goes! You never know until you try I guess.

That's really all that is happening now, so pretty tame compared to last week! Next week should be interesting as well as I have to take a stool sample each morning for three days and get them to Steeven's doctor's office that same day. The last sample they ran came out fine, but the doctor did some checking online and found some other tests that should be ran to look for other parasites and things. I am so grateful that the doctors we have had have all been so great! The ENT doctor will also be calling, well the nurse will since we al know the nurse does most of the work right, to let us know when they want to do Steeven's surgery. I am hoping we can get it done before I go back to work.

I have been a little torn this week. My grandpa is not doing well and he lives in Des Moines. Traveling with Steeven right now is not the best idea, but I also cannot leave him for the weekend. It makes me sad to be in a position like I am so I wondering about God's timing right now. Don't get me wrong, I am not upset with God nor do I think he has bad timing. I have learned that even though I think His timing stinks sometimes whenever I look back I can see what He was doing. It is just that I am a little overwhelmed right now and for the past about year and a half I have wondered just how much God thinks I can handle at one time! We'll see I guess.

We Love Dr. Appointments!

What have we been doing with our time you ask, well we love to go to Dr. appointments! This afternoon Steeven had a CT scan done and the results were good. The admission lady was new, so we all know what that means. She did a really good job and thankfully Steeven didn't destroy her office. The when waited in the radiology department at Avera, again Steeven did good. I hope the other people didn't mind the singing and other things I was doing to keep him entertained.

The priceless moment came when the guy who was going to do the scan, whatever you call those people, saw Steeven and then on our walk back to the "room" he said, "He does have to sit completely still for this to work" to which I said, " I know". When we got to the room he asked me to lay Steeven on the table and "put his head in the foam thing". At that point the doubts starting coming to me. What will he think, how do I let him know it will be okay, what if he freaks out while he is in that "hole" and hits his head, and on and on? Lets just say that he did great and my very limited knowledge of the Creole language was sufficient, insert thanks to God here again.

Anyway, the results were good so our little guy just needs his tonsils and adenoids removed. We will wait to see what the eye drops do and if they don't work they will also probe, horrible word, his tear ducts during surgery and see if that helps the eye drainage.

I would just like to put this question out there: Is it considered bad parenting if you have to "gently" sit on your child to get the eye drops in his eyes? Just wondering.

Hi there.

As I stand at the receptionist I hear a man say, "Hi there" and instantly I know where Steeven is. I turn around and the man has his legs crossed, which has got to uncomfortable right, anyway Steeven is holding the man's hands and straddled across his legs!!! Seriously kid.

So we went to the eye doctor today and I can't say enough good things about Dr. Tufty at Sanford. He and his nurse were great with Steeven and the visit was actually, somewhat, enjoyable. After having said that I must now say that my son will be the kid with the "pop bottle" glasses, say it isn't so! I guess I don't know how thick the Dr. meant, but I guess we will find out soon enough. All I know is he said Steeven is extremely near sighted, which explains the standing directly in front of the television.

The poor little guy had to have two different kinds of drops in his eyes, twice! he was a trooper though. He also had his first sucker, which ended up in my hair, on my shirt, my neck oh and he drooled it on my arm too! Good Times! Oh well, I guess that is the price a mom must pay to make his visit a little easier. I also have to give him drops at home for 12 days, yes I said 12 days. I will have to let you know how that goes.

Next we leave for the hospital where he will have a CT scan done of his nose and sinus area. Then off to the ENT again to go over results. Fun, fun and more fun. At least I have lots of stories to tell, right. Oh, and I remembered to get the other three kids are squared away so there will be no stress about getting home on time when they are out of school. Thanks Kim and April for helping a mom out!

What a day!

Today was Steeven's appointment with the ENT doctor at Sanford. It went well really, even though it lasted longer than I anticipated which led to a little panic on my part about who was going to be home when Carter got off the bus! When you are used to having a cell phone and then you are put in a situation like today a person tends to get a little freaked out, well maybe not everyone but I sure did.

Anyway, Dr. Avery had the audiologist test Steeven's hearing and she did a great job with him. She actually has an adopted daughter from China, insert thanks to God here for putting people in my path that can relate. Steeven has some problems with hearing, but it is more than likely from the fluid in his inner ear. The Dr. said that he figured that would be the case with all the drainage going in Steeven's eyes and nose. So, as we were in "the booth" getting his hearing checked he decided to make himself at home on my lap and turn sideways with his legs over mine and relax a while. Thankfully this was at the end and the lady doing the testing thought it was funny.

*Back up a little in this story to the two of us in the waiting room between visiting with the doctor and waiting for the audiologist. Okay, so I am freaking out, on the inside because of course I look like I have it all together on the outside, about who will be home for Carter and I notice a phone in the waiting room, insert thanks to God again here. I ask the receptionist, "Can I use that phone?" She says yes, and by the way she has been staring at us all morning and smiling the whole time so thankfully she likes us! I call Kim, my angel sent from God that just happens to be my neighbor, and it is busy, are you kidding me here! As I am leaving a message the audiologists calls our name, so I cut my message short and pray that this doesn't take too long. Things move along and then we are in the waiting room again and so I use the wonderfully placed phone and this time Kim answers!!! So, as usual, she is able to help me out and I can relax about Carter.

I did decide that when Steeven and I are out at appointments maybe I should be the one to carry the cell phone!

Tomorrow what does our day look like, well glad you asked. Steeven gets his eyes checked in the morning then in the afternoon he has a CT scan and then back to Dr. Avery to go over results. He will need his adenoids removed and the doctor is covering all his bases so if anything else needs to be done he can do it all at once, smart guy. This time I am covering all of my bases with the other kids so no worries tomorrow, I may be a little slow but I am learning! Stay tuned for more drama at the Christensen house :-)

Princess Party

Jordyn and I had a great time Color Me Mine's Princess Party last month. She got to paint a crown night light, eat cupcakes, get her nails and face painted, and meet some new people. She had been waiting all month to go and even though she didn't feel the best that morning, she got up early and didn't want to miss it. I would like to think it is because she was looking forward to her date with mommy, but we all know that mostly she just really wanted to paint that crown! In the picture from left to right: Miss Teen SD, Jordyn, Miss SD, and Mrs. SD.

Hair Cut

Well today was Steeven's first hair cut at a salon. He did a very good job, until Dawn trimmed his neck. I think the vibrating of the razor both tickled and freaked him out! He looks great thought, thanks Dawn!

"No Steeven, Acky"

Okay, so I hear Abby downstaris saying, "No Steeven, acky", over and over so like any good parent I wait to hear what comes next. The next words are, "He is eating toilet paper!" So then I decide maybe I should go down since he is clearly not listening to his sister. As I walk into the basement I see Abby leaning over Steeven trying to get him to spit the toilet paper out, with no luck I might add. Thankfully he listened to me, this time, when I told him it was acky and to spit it out. He sure is a funny little boy and does the darndest things. He will keep this house on our toes!

Good Time Management?

Once again I am not really using my time wisely! Why would I be starting this blog on a school morning when I should be making sure the girls are getting ready?! I would like to think it is because deep down I know they are very responsible and do not need my help. Well, that is true in part, but they are still kids and probably need some guidance. So I guess my fist post will not be very long or thought provoking, not sure if any of them will be, but motherhood calls as I hear pounding coming from the basement.