You ever seen a 5 year old on a major steroid high?
It is a sight to behold.
Ty's doctor thinks he has something called PFAPA, which causes him to have a fever for about 4 days every 3 weeks or so. When we were in for Ty's well visit a couple of weeks ago, Dr. P. said if that is what it is, we could give him a mega-dose of prednisone as soon as the fever started, and it would knock it out in 24 hours.
Fast forward to this past Friday....
We were having "one of those" mornings, so I didn't take Ty to preschool. He ended up at his nanny's house playing. Peggy called me and asked if I had any tylenol bc he was starting to run a fever. She came to get the tylenol, and I asked if she minded running and having the prednisone filled so we could try that. Now, we're talking a huge dose here; he had to take 2.5 tsp at once. We thought he wasn't going to get it all down without throwing up.
For the next 2 days, that child was WILD. He slept at night, but when he wad awake, he could not be still or quiet. He talked non-stop. He moved constantly. He looked around the room with a wild look on his face, breathing hard, trying to figure out what to do next. Which is so not Ty. (Heaven help us if Troy ever has to take it!) He was in fast forward all day, running on nervous energy.
But his fever went away.
I think things are pretty much back to normal again. Hoping this doesn't happen too many more times. I don't know how many rounds of mega-steroids we can stand!
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Friday, March 25, 2011
My Little Meteorologist
I have a love/hate relationship with stormy nights.
On the one hand, it's relaxing and nice to hear rain on the roof and thunder rolling, and watch the lightning flash across the sky.
On the other, I have seen the damage severe Alabama thunderstorms (and the tornados that often pop up with them) can do.
Back to the first hand...it is so much fun to watch my junior meteorologists get excited about the weather. Both of the boys like to talk about storms - especially since the big one that caused so much damage in the community almost a year ago - but Ty is almost obsessed with the weather. He loves looking at the radar and watching the weather channel. A little hail storm came through earlier, and he was dancing with the broom saying, "It's coming a BIG hail storm! Ice cubes are falling on the porch!" He was so excited he had to call both sets of grandparents and tell them about it. He kept running to the window to watch the lightning and see if it was hailing. He finally fell asleep in my recliner watching the lightning through the big picture window. The sweetie.
We may see him on the weather channel one day.
On the one hand, it's relaxing and nice to hear rain on the roof and thunder rolling, and watch the lightning flash across the sky.
On the other, I have seen the damage severe Alabama thunderstorms (and the tornados that often pop up with them) can do.
Back to the first hand...it is so much fun to watch my junior meteorologists get excited about the weather. Both of the boys like to talk about storms - especially since the big one that caused so much damage in the community almost a year ago - but Ty is almost obsessed with the weather. He loves looking at the radar and watching the weather channel. A little hail storm came through earlier, and he was dancing with the broom saying, "It's coming a BIG hail storm! Ice cubes are falling on the porch!" He was so excited he had to call both sets of grandparents and tell them about it. He kept running to the window to watch the lightning and see if it was hailing. He finally fell asleep in my recliner watching the lightning through the big picture window. The sweetie.
We may see him on the weather channel one day.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Cruisin' For A Bruisin'
See this adorable child?
Looks can be deceiving.
Troy, bless his heart, I think ended up with a combo of stubbornness from both the Johnsons and the Bowerses. Again, bless his heart. He is the sweetest child, loves his mommy, great big brother, smart as a whip....but when he gets an idea in his head, it is do or die. I'm thinking positively and saying this will give him drive when he's older. For the time being, however, I just want him to live that long. As in, not get beat half to death.
Like yesterday. I had to take Audrey back to the doctor for a reckeck from her RSV, so Troy stayed with his nanny. On the way home, I stopped and got him and my niece Happy Meals. They were out of Sprite, so I got them Hi-C. When I get there he is upset there is no Sprite. I try to gently explain there wasn't any, and I want him to try the Hi-C. He tells me nanny has Sprite. Of course, I have already told him to try the Hi-C, and since trying to get him to try new things is a big deal right now, I decided to make him try it or not get anything. Here was strike two against me in his book (not having Sprite to start with was strike one). A few minutes later, Nanny noticed a black spot in his hairline, and since they had been playing outside, we wanted to make sure it wasn't a tick. We asked him to look down, and re refused. I gave his head a little push, and he slapped at me. Since hitting out of anger is a big no-no, I gave him a little spanking (bear in mind, this is a good spanking, not child abuse.) This prompted the biggest fit/temper tantrum I have ever seen him throw. He was swinging his arms, kicking his feet, throwing his body around, anything to keep us from checking that spot on his neck. I spanked him again, to no avail. I finally had to sit down in the recliner with him in my lap like you'd hold a baby on your shoulder, wrap a leg around his legs, hold his body and arms down with my arms, and hold his head between my hands just to keep him still enough Peggy could check the spot (which turned out to be just a scabby scratched place). We packed up and came back home.
Once home, I sat down at eye level and made sure he understood why he was in trouble. I also told him since he was ugly at Nanny's, he wouldn't be going back for the rest of the week (which is a big thing b/c they just live next door and he generally goes several times a week to play with my niece). He was calm and fine and went and took a nap, waking up 2 hours later just as sweet as ever.
So today, he said he wanted someone to play with while Ty is at school. Sorry, Charlie, you are grounded for the next 2 days. I know he understands what he did was wrong, but I don't know if he completely understands that the punishment is a result of that. I think he does, but you know, he's not quite four. I do think he will be fine and maybe next time he will remember this before he pitches a fit.
[And today when Jeremy came home from lunch, he had to explain to same wild child why it we kill some animals (i.e. cows/deer/rabbits for food, wild dogs for chasing the cows) and not others (like the racoon that was playing in the pasture this morning). I'm telling ya, he's smart. He even brought up Bambi. Which is another post in itself.......]
Looks can be deceiving.
Troy, bless his heart, I think ended up with a combo of stubbornness from both the Johnsons and the Bowerses. Again, bless his heart. He is the sweetest child, loves his mommy, great big brother, smart as a whip....but when he gets an idea in his head, it is do or die. I'm thinking positively and saying this will give him drive when he's older. For the time being, however, I just want him to live that long. As in, not get beat half to death.
Like yesterday. I had to take Audrey back to the doctor for a reckeck from her RSV, so Troy stayed with his nanny. On the way home, I stopped and got him and my niece Happy Meals. They were out of Sprite, so I got them Hi-C. When I get there he is upset there is no Sprite. I try to gently explain there wasn't any, and I want him to try the Hi-C. He tells me nanny has Sprite. Of course, I have already told him to try the Hi-C, and since trying to get him to try new things is a big deal right now, I decided to make him try it or not get anything. Here was strike two against me in his book (not having Sprite to start with was strike one). A few minutes later, Nanny noticed a black spot in his hairline, and since they had been playing outside, we wanted to make sure it wasn't a tick. We asked him to look down, and re refused. I gave his head a little push, and he slapped at me. Since hitting out of anger is a big no-no, I gave him a little spanking (bear in mind, this is a good spanking, not child abuse.) This prompted the biggest fit/temper tantrum I have ever seen him throw. He was swinging his arms, kicking his feet, throwing his body around, anything to keep us from checking that spot on his neck. I spanked him again, to no avail. I finally had to sit down in the recliner with him in my lap like you'd hold a baby on your shoulder, wrap a leg around his legs, hold his body and arms down with my arms, and hold his head between my hands just to keep him still enough Peggy could check the spot (which turned out to be just a scabby scratched place). We packed up and came back home.
Once home, I sat down at eye level and made sure he understood why he was in trouble. I also told him since he was ugly at Nanny's, he wouldn't be going back for the rest of the week (which is a big thing b/c they just live next door and he generally goes several times a week to play with my niece). He was calm and fine and went and took a nap, waking up 2 hours later just as sweet as ever.
So today, he said he wanted someone to play with while Ty is at school. Sorry, Charlie, you are grounded for the next 2 days. I know he understands what he did was wrong, but I don't know if he completely understands that the punishment is a result of that. I think he does, but you know, he's not quite four. I do think he will be fine and maybe next time he will remember this before he pitches a fit.
[And today when Jeremy came home from lunch, he had to explain to same wild child why it we kill some animals (i.e. cows/deer/rabbits for food, wild dogs for chasing the cows) and not others (like the racoon that was playing in the pasture this morning). I'm telling ya, he's smart. He even brought up Bambi. Which is another post in itself.......]
Thankful Thursday....Week 2
So, since we were in the hospital last week, I missed Thankful Thursday. Hence, this labeled week 2. Also, you may see a theme to this week's list...Anyway. If you want to join in the fun and read some more Thankful Thursdays, check out Curious Georgi!
1. Our wonderful doctor who honestly cares for our kids.
2. The nurses and other staff who cared for my sweet baby in the hospital.
3. The medicine and medical technology that helped diagnose and get her better.
4. My sweet husband, who stayed home with our boys while I stayed with Audrey.
5. My mother and mother-in-law for helping while Jeremy was working.
6. Our wonderful church family who has been bringing us supper this week so I have one less thing to worry about while taking care of my still recovering baby.
7. All of our friends who pray. James 5:13-18
8. Sometimes bed-sharing.
9. The conviction to try to stand for what is right.
10. The people who will back me up when I take that stance.
1. Our wonderful doctor who honestly cares for our kids.
2. The nurses and other staff who cared for my sweet baby in the hospital.
3. The medicine and medical technology that helped diagnose and get her better.
4. My sweet husband, who stayed home with our boys while I stayed with Audrey.
5. My mother and mother-in-law for helping while Jeremy was working.
6. Our wonderful church family who has been bringing us supper this week so I have one less thing to worry about while taking care of my still recovering baby.
7. All of our friends who pray. James 5:13-18
8. Sometimes bed-sharing.
9. The conviction to try to stand for what is right.
10. The people who will back me up when I take that stance.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Maturity Is An Option
Psalm 119:9-10 "How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word. With my whole heart I have sought You; Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments!"
Think about how many choices we have to make. Who to be friends with. Who to date. Who to marry. Where to go to college. Whether or not to go to college. What kind of career to pursue. Whether to become a Christian. Whether to act like a child or a mature adult.......yes, that is an option, too.
We all start out as babes, literally and spiritually. We grow and learn. As we learn, we have to make the decision whether we want to apply what we learn, or continue to walk around acting childish. Looking at it from a spiritual standpoint, we should want to seek out God and His commandments and "take heed." Some choose not to do this. They would rather blame circumstances, or a negative view of humanity, or something that they think justifies that God doesn't exist and that gives them the right to act however they want. They use obscene language, cut others down, make crude jokes, anything to try to make themselves feel better.
They are really trying to fill a void.
That void is the place where God is supposed to be in our lives. He created us to need Him, to want to rely on Him. When Satan gets a hold of us, God in a sense steps to the side, waiting until we are ready to put Him back where He belongs. He never leaves, He just waits in the background, waiting on us to realize He isn't in His place of honor in our lives anymore. When we make this realization, we will, hopefully, turn back to Him and restore Him to that place of honor and strive to mature in Him.
So, yes, being mature is an option, as is being righteous, ignorant, wise, faithful, or anything else we can choose to be or not be. There will be times in our lives when we may consciously or unconsciously choose to "backslide," losing our maturity, righteousness, wisdom, etc. But we can always gain it back and improve it if we choose to.
Loving Father, I know that I am not perfect. But I choose to strive to grow and mature in You every day. Please help me in this endeavor to better serve you and to use my maturity to show others the way to You and Heaven. In Christ's name, Amen.
Think about how many choices we have to make. Who to be friends with. Who to date. Who to marry. Where to go to college. Whether or not to go to college. What kind of career to pursue. Whether to become a Christian. Whether to act like a child or a mature adult.......yes, that is an option, too.
We all start out as babes, literally and spiritually. We grow and learn. As we learn, we have to make the decision whether we want to apply what we learn, or continue to walk around acting childish. Looking at it from a spiritual standpoint, we should want to seek out God and His commandments and "take heed." Some choose not to do this. They would rather blame circumstances, or a negative view of humanity, or something that they think justifies that God doesn't exist and that gives them the right to act however they want. They use obscene language, cut others down, make crude jokes, anything to try to make themselves feel better.
They are really trying to fill a void.
That void is the place where God is supposed to be in our lives. He created us to need Him, to want to rely on Him. When Satan gets a hold of us, God in a sense steps to the side, waiting until we are ready to put Him back where He belongs. He never leaves, He just waits in the background, waiting on us to realize He isn't in His place of honor in our lives anymore. When we make this realization, we will, hopefully, turn back to Him and restore Him to that place of honor and strive to mature in Him.
So, yes, being mature is an option, as is being righteous, ignorant, wise, faithful, or anything else we can choose to be or not be. There will be times in our lives when we may consciously or unconsciously choose to "backslide," losing our maturity, righteousness, wisdom, etc. But we can always gain it back and improve it if we choose to.
Loving Father, I know that I am not perfect. But I choose to strive to grow and mature in You every day. Please help me in this endeavor to better serve you and to use my maturity to show others the way to You and Heaven. In Christ's name, Amen.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Instruments of God
Colossians 3:17 "And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, and give thanks to God the Father through Him."
I was sitting in the hospital bed, holding my 6 month old baby while she received a breathing treatment from the lady from respiratory. This was Audrey's fourth day in the hospital with RSV. She was still sick, but much improved. The kind lady giving her the treatment told me how glad she was Audrey was doing better. She said "We are always so happy when we can help them get better....but we are really just instruments of God."
It meant so much to me to hear her say that. So few people publicly acknowledge the Lord in their work. She didn't have to add that tag at the end. But she did. She realized that the work she does in helping others is a labor of love for the Lord, so He can be glorified. God worked through her and the doctor and nurses to help my baby on the road to better breathing. Everything we do we are to do for His glory, to bring others to Him, whether it is teaching a Bible class, doing our secular job to the best of our ability, being a good friend, raising our children - our entire lives are to be lived in His name.
What is an instrument? A tool. Something used to aid us in whatever it is we are doing. Is that not what we are for God? He uses us to help Him bring others to Him. By our words and our actions. And if we aren't being a tool for God, that can only mean we are being used by Satan, for Jesus tells us if we aren't gathering and working for Him, we are against Him. Whose instrument are you?
All-powerful Father, I know that without You, I am nothing. You are my Creator and Life-giver. Please always help me to remember that I am Your creation, and that You created me to be an instrument for Your glory. Help me to always do that which is right and will not only help me get to Heaven, but also be able to bring others with me. In Christ's name, Amen.
I was sitting in the hospital bed, holding my 6 month old baby while she received a breathing treatment from the lady from respiratory. This was Audrey's fourth day in the hospital with RSV. She was still sick, but much improved. The kind lady giving her the treatment told me how glad she was Audrey was doing better. She said "We are always so happy when we can help them get better....but we are really just instruments of God."
It meant so much to me to hear her say that. So few people publicly acknowledge the Lord in their work. She didn't have to add that tag at the end. But she did. She realized that the work she does in helping others is a labor of love for the Lord, so He can be glorified. God worked through her and the doctor and nurses to help my baby on the road to better breathing. Everything we do we are to do for His glory, to bring others to Him, whether it is teaching a Bible class, doing our secular job to the best of our ability, being a good friend, raising our children - our entire lives are to be lived in His name.
What is an instrument? A tool. Something used to aid us in whatever it is we are doing. Is that not what we are for God? He uses us to help Him bring others to Him. By our words and our actions. And if we aren't being a tool for God, that can only mean we are being used by Satan, for Jesus tells us if we aren't gathering and working for Him, we are against Him. Whose instrument are you?
All-powerful Father, I know that without You, I am nothing. You are my Creator and Life-giver. Please always help me to remember that I am Your creation, and that You created me to be an instrument for Your glory. Help me to always do that which is right and will not only help me get to Heaven, but also be able to bring others with me. In Christ's name, Amen.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
My Three New Least Favorite Letters...
RSV.
So, if you thought I had just forgotten about my blog, you were wrong (this time). I just didn't have access to a computer in the hospital.
Yep. Hospital.
What started out as a little runny nose last Thursday ended up as a four night stay in Decatur General for Miss Audrey. Evidently RSV is running rampant right now. Several of my friends' babies have had it, although Audrey and a set of 2 month old twins are the only ones that ended up with a hospital visit.
Audrey just had a little runny nose at her well visit last Thursday, which we just attributed to allergies. But that run ny nose soon had a cough to keep it company. And they kept getting worse. We had plans to go to Athens to see my family Friday night, and waffled after we found out the Matlock babies had RSV. It wouldn't have been so bad, but my cousin has a 7 week old baby that we definitely didn't want to share anything contagious with. I had already called the doctor's office once about seeing if I could give Aydrey something for her cough and had been told there would be someone in the office all weekend. So I called the on-call pediatrician's number and got the nurse and she said to give Audrey some Dimetapp cold and cough an call back if she got worse. She said if they did an RSV test too soon, you could get a false negative. So I called to say weweren't going to Athens. My aunt said for us to come on and they would just leave with the baby right before we got there. So we loaded up and went on.
We spent the night with my brother and then went to my parents' Saturday. Audrey was getting progressively worse. We went back and forth over whether or not to call the doctor back. We decided to give it one more night and see what happened. So home we went Saturday evening.
Sunday morning, I got up and got my shower and got ready to call the doctor. We live a little over an hour's drive from our pediatrician, so I wanted to be ready when I called in case they wanted us to come on in. And they did. But they wanted us there in 45 minutes. They were wrapping things up already and getting ready to head out (this was like 10 a.m.) When I told them there was no way I could be there in less than about an hour 20, they told me in that case I could either wait till Monday and see her regular doctor or take her to Huntsville Women's and Children's ER. Kinda aggravated at this point. They didn't even advise me to go to their own hospital's ER. I really wanted her regular ped to care for her, so we decided to wait it out if at all possible. We could always run to the local ER if necessary. At this point, Audrey feels terrible, just wants her mommy, is wheezing, has a tight barking cough, and is so hoarse she can barely cry.
Monday morning I was on the road with my sick darling before the doctor's office opened. I wanted to be there as soon as they could get her in. I called them on the road and set an appointment for 9:40, but we got there about an hour before that. I tried to nurse her, and just went on in, and they went ahead and called her back, thankfully. They confirmed that it was RSV and checked her pulse oxygen level.It wasn't grat. The nurse finally got a 96, but she had to try about 5 times. They gave her a breathing treatment in the office and listened to her again. Dr. P. decided since we lived so far off, he wanted her close by where he could keep an eye on her. (One of the many reasons I love Dr. P!) He was also concerned about dehydration. She felt so bad that she wasn't nursing well. I am so glad he made this decision, as when they checked her pulse oxygen at the hospital, it didn't read as high as they'd like so she was put on O2. Had to get an IV, do bloodwork, and a chest xray. My poor sick baby. :(
To shorten this long story, we ended up being in the hospital till Friday. He wouldn't let her go until her pulse oxygen stayed above 90 and she didn't need oxygen at night. We managed to make it all night Thursday night, though it was border line part of the time. She was so happy to get unhooked from all of her tubed and wires, and we were both ecstatic to be getting to come home to all our boys!
The nurses and staff at Decatur General took such good care of us while we were there, and I am so thankful for that. They never left the room without checking to see if I needed anything and did everything they could to make us as comfortable as possible. We are so grateful for them andDr. Parmer. And for the family and friends that have been helping us out, and checking up on us, and sending up prayers for us. We are so blessed.
So, if you thought I had just forgotten about my blog, you were wrong (this time). I just didn't have access to a computer in the hospital.
Yep. Hospital.
What started out as a little runny nose last Thursday ended up as a four night stay in Decatur General for Miss Audrey. Evidently RSV is running rampant right now. Several of my friends' babies have had it, although Audrey and a set of 2 month old twins are the only ones that ended up with a hospital visit.
Audrey just had a little runny nose at her well visit last Thursday, which we just attributed to allergies. But that run ny nose soon had a cough to keep it company. And they kept getting worse. We had plans to go to Athens to see my family Friday night, and waffled after we found out the Matlock babies had RSV. It wouldn't have been so bad, but my cousin has a 7 week old baby that we definitely didn't want to share anything contagious with. I had already called the doctor's office once about seeing if I could give Aydrey something for her cough and had been told there would be someone in the office all weekend. So I called the on-call pediatrician's number and got the nurse and she said to give Audrey some Dimetapp cold and cough an call back if she got worse. She said if they did an RSV test too soon, you could get a false negative. So I called to say weweren't going to Athens. My aunt said for us to come on and they would just leave with the baby right before we got there. So we loaded up and went on.
We spent the night with my brother and then went to my parents' Saturday. Audrey was getting progressively worse. We went back and forth over whether or not to call the doctor back. We decided to give it one more night and see what happened. So home we went Saturday evening.
Sunday morning, I got up and got my shower and got ready to call the doctor. We live a little over an hour's drive from our pediatrician, so I wanted to be ready when I called in case they wanted us to come on in. And they did. But they wanted us there in 45 minutes. They were wrapping things up already and getting ready to head out (this was like 10 a.m.) When I told them there was no way I could be there in less than about an hour 20, they told me in that case I could either wait till Monday and see her regular doctor or take her to Huntsville Women's and Children's ER. Kinda aggravated at this point. They didn't even advise me to go to their own hospital's ER. I really wanted her regular ped to care for her, so we decided to wait it out if at all possible. We could always run to the local ER if necessary. At this point, Audrey feels terrible, just wants her mommy, is wheezing, has a tight barking cough, and is so hoarse she can barely cry.
Monday morning I was on the road with my sick darling before the doctor's office opened. I wanted to be there as soon as they could get her in. I called them on the road and set an appointment for 9:40, but we got there about an hour before that. I tried to nurse her, and just went on in, and they went ahead and called her back, thankfully. They confirmed that it was RSV and checked her pulse oxygen level.It wasn't grat. The nurse finally got a 96, but she had to try about 5 times. They gave her a breathing treatment in the office and listened to her again. Dr. P. decided since we lived so far off, he wanted her close by where he could keep an eye on her. (One of the many reasons I love Dr. P!) He was also concerned about dehydration. She felt so bad that she wasn't nursing well. I am so glad he made this decision, as when they checked her pulse oxygen at the hospital, it didn't read as high as they'd like so she was put on O2. Had to get an IV, do bloodwork, and a chest xray. My poor sick baby. :(
To shorten this long story, we ended up being in the hospital till Friday. He wouldn't let her go until her pulse oxygen stayed above 90 and she didn't need oxygen at night. We managed to make it all night Thursday night, though it was border line part of the time. She was so happy to get unhooked from all of her tubed and wires, and we were both ecstatic to be getting to come home to all our boys!
The nurses and staff at Decatur General took such good care of us while we were there, and I am so thankful for that. They never left the room without checking to see if I needed anything and did everything they could to make us as comfortable as possible. We are so grateful for them andDr. Parmer. And for the family and friends that have been helping us out, and checking up on us, and sending up prayers for us. We are so blessed.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Praise Him! Praise Him!
Psalm 113:3 "From the rising of the sun to its going down The Lord's name is to be praised."
Since my baby is sick and I didn't get to attend worship services this morning, I wanted to spend some time today thinking about and praising God. What hasn't He done for us? Even in less than ideal circumstances, His children are always cared and provided for. He uses every situation that we go through to bring us closer to Him, if we will let Him. So, today, maybe you will join me and the Psalmist in just giving some praise to God.
Psalm 8:1 "O Lord, our Lord, How excellent is Your name in all the earth, Who have set Your glory above the heavens."
Psalm 9:1-2 "I will praise You, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will tell of all your marvelous works. I will be glad and rejoice in You; I will sing praise to Your name, O Most High."
Psalm 66:1-4 "Make a joyful shout to God, all the earth! Sing out the honor of His name; Make His praise glorious. Say to God, 'How awesome are Your works!Through the greatness of Your power Your enemies shall submit themselves to You. All the earth shall worship You And sing praises to You; They shall sing praises to Your name.' "
Psalm 92:1-2 "It is good to give thanks to the Lord, And to sing praises to Your name, O Most High; To declare Your lovingkindness in the morning, And Your faithfulness every night."
Psalm 100: "Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands! Serve the Lord with gladness; Come before His presence with singing. Know that the Lord, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are his people and the sheep of His pasture. Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into his courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name., For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations."
Psalm 102:12 "You, O Lord, shall endure forever, And the remembrance of Your name to all generations."
Psalm 104:24-25 "O Lord, how manifold are Your works! In wisdom You have made them all, The earth is full of Your possessions---This great and wide sea, In which are innumerable teeming things, Living things both small and great."
Psalm 111:7-9 "The works of His hands are verity and justice; All His precepts are sure. They stand fast forever and ever, And are done in truth and uprightness. He has sent redemption to His people; He has commanded His covenant forever; Holy and awesome is His name."
There are, of course, many more times in the Scripture that the authors gave praise to God. They understood, as should we, how exalted and excellent our loving Father's name is. Let us always remember to praise Him here on earth, so that one day we can praise Him face to face!
O Lord, how glorious and excellent is Your name in all the earth! Let us always remember what a loving, powerful, and righteous God You are, and to show that we remember. In Christ's most precious and holy name, Amen.
Since my baby is sick and I didn't get to attend worship services this morning, I wanted to spend some time today thinking about and praising God. What hasn't He done for us? Even in less than ideal circumstances, His children are always cared and provided for. He uses every situation that we go through to bring us closer to Him, if we will let Him. So, today, maybe you will join me and the Psalmist in just giving some praise to God.
Psalm 8:1 "O Lord, our Lord, How excellent is Your name in all the earth, Who have set Your glory above the heavens."
Psalm 9:1-2 "I will praise You, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will tell of all your marvelous works. I will be glad and rejoice in You; I will sing praise to Your name, O Most High."
Psalm 66:1-4 "Make a joyful shout to God, all the earth! Sing out the honor of His name; Make His praise glorious. Say to God, 'How awesome are Your works!Through the greatness of Your power Your enemies shall submit themselves to You. All the earth shall worship You And sing praises to You; They shall sing praises to Your name.' "
Psalm 92:1-2 "It is good to give thanks to the Lord, And to sing praises to Your name, O Most High; To declare Your lovingkindness in the morning, And Your faithfulness every night."
Psalm 100: "Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands! Serve the Lord with gladness; Come before His presence with singing. Know that the Lord, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are his people and the sheep of His pasture. Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into his courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name., For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations."
Psalm 102:12 "You, O Lord, shall endure forever, And the remembrance of Your name to all generations."
Psalm 104:24-25 "O Lord, how manifold are Your works! In wisdom You have made them all, The earth is full of Your possessions---This great and wide sea, In which are innumerable teeming things, Living things both small and great."
Psalm 111:7-9 "The works of His hands are verity and justice; All His precepts are sure. They stand fast forever and ever, And are done in truth and uprightness. He has sent redemption to His people; He has commanded His covenant forever; Holy and awesome is His name."
There are, of course, many more times in the Scripture that the authors gave praise to God. They understood, as should we, how exalted and excellent our loving Father's name is. Let us always remember to praise Him here on earth, so that one day we can praise Him face to face!
O Lord, how glorious and excellent is Your name in all the earth! Let us always remember what a loving, powerful, and righteous God You are, and to show that we remember. In Christ's most precious and holy name, Amen.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
GAME NIGHT!!!
Last night was game night in Athens at my brother's.
We Bowerees LOVE game night. :)
But we almost didn't get to go. Audrey is sick, and has been exposed to RSV. Which means there is a possibility she has RSV. Which we don't want to give to my cousin's 6 week old baby.
I called my aunt and told her we weren't coming and what was going on, and she said they would just leave when we got there, since we haven't gotten to make a trip to Athens since Christmas. I hated that they had to leave, but I am glad we still got to go see everyone else.
I also hated not being there for the big announcement.....
CHRIS AND CHRISTIE ARE EXPECTING!!!!!!
Of course, my sister-in-law loving me as she does, I already knew this. (The little crazy told me at Ty's birthday party last month.....with every one else around.....so I couldn't holler and get excited.) But it would have been fun to have been there when everyone else found out. Especially since they used the game to tell. :) Anyway, we are all so excited!!!
We had a good visit, anyway, spending the night with Chris and Christie and spending most of the day at my parents' today.
I love getting to visit with my family, but I am so glad to be back home!
We Bowerees LOVE game night. :)
But we almost didn't get to go. Audrey is sick, and has been exposed to RSV. Which means there is a possibility she has RSV. Which we don't want to give to my cousin's 6 week old baby.
I called my aunt and told her we weren't coming and what was going on, and she said they would just leave when we got there, since we haven't gotten to make a trip to Athens since Christmas. I hated that they had to leave, but I am glad we still got to go see everyone else.
I also hated not being there for the big announcement.....
CHRIS AND CHRISTIE ARE EXPECTING!!!!!!
Of course, my sister-in-law loving me as she does, I already knew this. (The little crazy told me at Ty's birthday party last month.....with every one else around.....so I couldn't holler and get excited.) But it would have been fun to have been there when everyone else found out. Especially since they used the game to tell. :) Anyway, we are all so excited!!!
We had a good visit, anyway, spending the night with Chris and Christie and spending most of the day at my parents' today.
I love getting to visit with my family, but I am so glad to be back home!
Doctors, Doctors Everywhere
What a week this has been!
Of course, Wednesday Ty had to go to the cardiologist. Thank goodness everything was alright there. Then Thursday, he and Audrey both had their well visits with Dr. Parmer. I am so glad that it was a rainy day so that Jeremy was able to go with me.
Both kids did well at the doctor's. They are both growing so much! (and of course, Troy is, too!) Ty was 41 lbs (which puts him in the 75th percentile) and only lacked 3.5 inches being 4 feet tall (90th %)! Audrey was 18 lb 8 oz (95th %) and 27.25 inches tall (95th %).
Audrey had to get 2 shots. She got so mad about having to be held down. She turned beet red and screamed her little loud lungs out. After we let her up she was fine. Just like flipping a switch.
They think Ty may have to have glasses. We are supposed to have an appointment being set up with the eye doctor sometime soon. This should be fun.
He also said he thinks Ty has something called PFAPA syndrome, and that this is what is causing him to keep getting fevers. He gave us a prescription for a mega dose of steroids to try if it happens again.
Yesterday, Audrey got to coughing pretty bad. She had had a runny nose the day before, but nothing major. And we also found out our friends' kids have RSV....so hoping that's not the case with Audrey, although we are treating it like it is for now. We are going back and forth about whether to take her back to the doctor tomorrow. We have been giving her medicine, per the on-call nurse's orders last night. But I still don't know if she needs to be checked out or left alone, if it doesn't get any worse. One of the tough parts of being a parent. *sigh* She has coughed till she is hoarse. And Troy is coughing and snotting, too.....
Wonder what tomorrow will bring???
Of course, Wednesday Ty had to go to the cardiologist. Thank goodness everything was alright there. Then Thursday, he and Audrey both had their well visits with Dr. Parmer. I am so glad that it was a rainy day so that Jeremy was able to go with me.
Both kids did well at the doctor's. They are both growing so much! (and of course, Troy is, too!) Ty was 41 lbs (which puts him in the 75th percentile) and only lacked 3.5 inches being 4 feet tall (90th %)! Audrey was 18 lb 8 oz (95th %) and 27.25 inches tall (95th %).
Audrey had to get 2 shots. She got so mad about having to be held down. She turned beet red and screamed her little loud lungs out. After we let her up she was fine. Just like flipping a switch.
They think Ty may have to have glasses. We are supposed to have an appointment being set up with the eye doctor sometime soon. This should be fun.
He also said he thinks Ty has something called PFAPA syndrome, and that this is what is causing him to keep getting fevers. He gave us a prescription for a mega dose of steroids to try if it happens again.
Yesterday, Audrey got to coughing pretty bad. She had had a runny nose the day before, but nothing major. And we also found out our friends' kids have RSV....so hoping that's not the case with Audrey, although we are treating it like it is for now. We are going back and forth about whether to take her back to the doctor tomorrow. We have been giving her medicine, per the on-call nurse's orders last night. But I still don't know if she needs to be checked out or left alone, if it doesn't get any worse. One of the tough parts of being a parent. *sigh* She has coughed till she is hoarse. And Troy is coughing and snotting, too.....
Wonder what tomorrow will bring???
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Thankful .Thursday....Week 1
So, here is a new thing....Every week I am going to think of 10 things I am thankful for and share them with you. I got the idea from Curious Georgi. :) Here goes!
1. Cloth Diapers. 'Nuff said. :)
2. The ability to function on just a couple hours sleep for several days in a row.
3. The wind up swing. Really. It's a mommy's best friend when you are trying to cook or grab a few minutes to your self.
4. That all 3 kids took a nap at the same time once this week! Hallelujah!
5. Jeremy's job. Both, because he has one, and because he can pretty much take off whenever he needs to.
6. Sweet boys who love being big brothers.
7. Good reports from the doctors.
8. Visits from friends. :) Sometimes you just need it.
9. Visits to family.
10. Chocolate milk. It's providing a large percentage of my calories right now.
1. Cloth Diapers. 'Nuff said. :)
2. The ability to function on just a couple hours sleep for several days in a row.
3. The wind up swing. Really. It's a mommy's best friend when you are trying to cook or grab a few minutes to your self.
4. That all 3 kids took a nap at the same time once this week! Hallelujah!
5. Jeremy's job. Both, because he has one, and because he can pretty much take off whenever he needs to.
6. Sweet boys who love being big brothers.
7. Good reports from the doctors.
8. Visits from friends. :) Sometimes you just need it.
9. Visits to family.
10. Chocolate milk. It's providing a large percentage of my calories right now.
The SAHM Blues (a song of my own composition)
(in the back ground plays the "Bad to the Bone" beat)
When I was just little
All I wanted to do
Was get hitched and have babies
When I got out of school
Well I had those babies
When college was done
And now for my babies
I'm stayin' at home.
Mom stays at home
Mom stays at home
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
Mom stays at home
For just a little while
I sewed with a friend
But it gotta kinda tiring
Staying up nights on end
So now I got one job
And one job alone
Taking care of my babies
And stayin' at home
Mom stays at home
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
Mom stays at home
Sometimes I feel useless
And my brain it gets bored
It's losing the info
That it once stored
I think "What am I doing?"
Sometimes I feel so alone
Yes this is the down side
Of stayin' at home
Mom stays at home
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
Mom stays at home
But then I remember
How important it is
To teach and to raise up
My sweet little kids
Don't want anybody
Else raising my own
Oh, I am so glad
I'm stayin' at home
Mom stays at home
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
Mom stays at home
When I was just little
All I wanted to do
Was get hitched and have babies
When I got out of school
Well I had those babies
When college was done
And now for my babies
I'm stayin' at home.
Mom stays at home
Mom stays at home
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
Mom stays at home
For just a little while
I sewed with a friend
But it gotta kinda tiring
Staying up nights on end
So now I got one job
And one job alone
Taking care of my babies
And stayin' at home
Mom stays at home
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
Mom stays at home
Sometimes I feel useless
And my brain it gets bored
It's losing the info
That it once stored
I think "What am I doing?"
Sometimes I feel so alone
Yes this is the down side
Of stayin' at home
Mom stays at home
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
Mom stays at home
But then I remember
How important it is
To teach and to raise up
My sweet little kids
Don't want anybody
Else raising my own
Oh, I am so glad
I'm stayin' at home
Mom stays at home
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
M-m-m-m-m-m-mom
Mom stays at home
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Turn That Frown Upside Down
The boys came out of class at church tonight with frowny faces on their papers. :(
I know they are boys, and boys will be....well, boys. But lately they have been becoming increasingly wilder, more out of control. Not wanting to listen or pay attention. Interrupting adults. Running like crazy people. I don't know if it is a stage they are going though or what, but their behavior has just become unacceptable. Jeremy called Miss Pam tonight on our way home from church to see what they did in class. They were interrupting her, not listening, not singing, and talking about things other than class material (i.e. Tom and Jerry - and I can't help but laugh). In all fairness, it wasn't just them. It was the class as a whole acting up. Which would mean less if they were older. But they are only 3 and 5. It is so hard when you are that little to behave when the other kids don't.
When we got home, Jeremy gave them a stern talking-to. Their DSIs got taken away for today and possibly tomorrow. )We considered not letting them have them back until Sunday, and only if they got smileys instead of frownies. But we decided that would be more punishment for us since we are headed out to Athens Friday afternoon to spend the night.) They were also told that if this happened again, there would be spankings involved. And the frowny face papers were hung on the refrigerator as a reminder to hopefully be replaced with smiley papers Sunday. We will see how things go.
Tyler does pretty well learning his lesson with a firm scolding and a little spat. All you have to do is hurt his feelings and he has a change of heart. Although he is pretty stubborn when he wants to be. He once went 17 hours without peeing.
Troy, on the other hand, I think you could beat half to death and take away every toy he has and he still wouldn't care. Sometimes I just don't know what to do with him.
Looking for smileys on Sunday!
I know they are boys, and boys will be....well, boys. But lately they have been becoming increasingly wilder, more out of control. Not wanting to listen or pay attention. Interrupting adults. Running like crazy people. I don't know if it is a stage they are going though or what, but their behavior has just become unacceptable. Jeremy called Miss Pam tonight on our way home from church to see what they did in class. They were interrupting her, not listening, not singing, and talking about things other than class material (i.e. Tom and Jerry - and I can't help but laugh). In all fairness, it wasn't just them. It was the class as a whole acting up. Which would mean less if they were older. But they are only 3 and 5. It is so hard when you are that little to behave when the other kids don't.
When we got home, Jeremy gave them a stern talking-to. Their DSIs got taken away for today and possibly tomorrow. )We considered not letting them have them back until Sunday, and only if they got smileys instead of frownies. But we decided that would be more punishment for us since we are headed out to Athens Friday afternoon to spend the night.) They were also told that if this happened again, there would be spankings involved. And the frowny face papers were hung on the refrigerator as a reminder to hopefully be replaced with smiley papers Sunday. We will see how things go.
Tyler does pretty well learning his lesson with a firm scolding and a little spat. All you have to do is hurt his feelings and he has a change of heart. Although he is pretty stubborn when he wants to be. He once went 17 hours without peeing.
Troy, on the other hand, I think you could beat half to death and take away every toy he has and he still wouldn't care. Sometimes I just don't know what to do with him.
Looking for smileys on Sunday!
Great Doctor Visit!
For a little bit of background....
For the past 4 or 5 months, Ty has been running a fever off and on. No other symptoms, no pain anywhere, just a fever. It generally is normal in the morning and starts going up around dinner time or a little after. It usually lasts about 4 days, and comes back somewhere between 10 days to 3 weeks. We have taken him to Dr. Parmer, his pediatrician, with it twice. The first time, he ran an x-ray looking for a sinus infection, but all was clear, and he didn't see anything else visibly wrong. The last time, he told me to just keep a record and watch it for a little while and let's try to figure out if there is a pattern or noticeable trigger. So that's what we have been doing.
I got to thinking, he had a coil put in the artery going to his heart last year, and I wondered if there might be an infection or something going on there. So I asked Dr. P about it and he told me to go ahead and call the cardiologist just to make sure.
Fast forward to this morning. We went to see Dr. Israel, the ped cardiologist. Thankfully, he said everything looked good. The coil is in there like it should be; there are no visible problems; and if there was an infection of the heart, the fever would be constant, not come and go. So I feel a lot better about that.
Now if we could just figure out what's causing these doggone fevers.
While we're on the subject of the cardiologist, let me say that I love Dr. Israel's office. I have never been in a doctor's office where you get in and out so quickly. I have never seen anyone in his office staff-wise other than him and his receptionist. He doesn't book 3 or 4 patients for the same time slot. This morning we were in and out in less than 30 minutes. We sat in the waiting room for about 10 or 15, and then were in the back for about 10. It's great. He calls you back himself, does whatever it is he is going to do, and you leave. If only you could get in and out of other offices that fast!
For the past 4 or 5 months, Ty has been running a fever off and on. No other symptoms, no pain anywhere, just a fever. It generally is normal in the morning and starts going up around dinner time or a little after. It usually lasts about 4 days, and comes back somewhere between 10 days to 3 weeks. We have taken him to Dr. Parmer, his pediatrician, with it twice. The first time, he ran an x-ray looking for a sinus infection, but all was clear, and he didn't see anything else visibly wrong. The last time, he told me to just keep a record and watch it for a little while and let's try to figure out if there is a pattern or noticeable trigger. So that's what we have been doing.
I got to thinking, he had a coil put in the artery going to his heart last year, and I wondered if there might be an infection or something going on there. So I asked Dr. P about it and he told me to go ahead and call the cardiologist just to make sure.
Fast forward to this morning. We went to see Dr. Israel, the ped cardiologist. Thankfully, he said everything looked good. The coil is in there like it should be; there are no visible problems; and if there was an infection of the heart, the fever would be constant, not come and go. So I feel a lot better about that.
Now if we could just figure out what's causing these doggone fevers.
While we're on the subject of the cardiologist, let me say that I love Dr. Israel's office. I have never been in a doctor's office where you get in and out so quickly. I have never seen anyone in his office staff-wise other than him and his receptionist. He doesn't book 3 or 4 patients for the same time slot. This morning we were in and out in less than 30 minutes. We sat in the waiting room for about 10 or 15, and then were in the back for about 10. It's great. He calls you back himself, does whatever it is he is going to do, and you leave. If only you could get in and out of other offices that fast!
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Priorities and Needs
Matthew 6:33 "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness..."
Okay. I realize here Christ was talking about not worrying about material things. Which is completely true. But it should also be a "whole life" application.
God and my desire to serve Him should always be first in my mind. If I follow His word in all things, everything else will fall into place. Not saying that everything will be exactly the way I think it should be, but things will happen that will help me stay on the right track in serving God. There are things that happen in my life all the time that I can't help but wonder, "What reason does God have for this happening to me right now?" I have come to the conclusion that on the other side of my troubles, not only will I be wiser, but I will be better equipped to help someone else who may be in a similar situation. That old saying, "What doesn't kill us makes us stronger" has truth to it. We will have troubles. We are promised that as followers of Christ there will be hard times, though everyone's hard times will not be the same. But in our times of trial, we should continue to seek God and righteous living, even if it seems the world is against us. There may be some changes you have to make. But it will all be worth it in the end. And truly, if we honestly do our best to imitate Christ and follow in His paths in life, our life here on earth will end up being richer, too.
Which brings us back to material things, and I may get a little off subject here. God promised to feed and clothe us; He never promised a mansion, or 2 extra cars, or money in savings. He promised to meet our NEEDS. I think sometimes we get our needs and wants confused. I heard someone talking about priorities not long ago, and, although he was making a point, the 3 things he mentioned were the car payment, the light bill, and the cable bill. I certainly would not put those three as my top three priorities. The cable bill is obviously way down on my list, since at our house we don't even have the local channels. But my point is, what are your priorities? What do you "know [I] can't live without"? Cable? 2 cars? Electricity and running water? A house with enough bedrooms that no one has to share? What are definite needs, and what are "it is so nice to have"s? There again, if we are seeking after God, the material will become less important to us, and we can be like Paul and learn to be content no matter what state we are in.
Loving Father, Thank you for knowing my needs, both material and spiritual, and for providing for those needs. Please continue to bless me in such a manner that those things that I receive and the things that happen to me in life will always help me on my path to serve and please You, and to be able to help others along the way as well. In Christ's Holy name, Amen.
Okay. I realize here Christ was talking about not worrying about material things. Which is completely true. But it should also be a "whole life" application.
God and my desire to serve Him should always be first in my mind. If I follow His word in all things, everything else will fall into place. Not saying that everything will be exactly the way I think it should be, but things will happen that will help me stay on the right track in serving God. There are things that happen in my life all the time that I can't help but wonder, "What reason does God have for this happening to me right now?" I have come to the conclusion that on the other side of my troubles, not only will I be wiser, but I will be better equipped to help someone else who may be in a similar situation. That old saying, "What doesn't kill us makes us stronger" has truth to it. We will have troubles. We are promised that as followers of Christ there will be hard times, though everyone's hard times will not be the same. But in our times of trial, we should continue to seek God and righteous living, even if it seems the world is against us. There may be some changes you have to make. But it will all be worth it in the end. And truly, if we honestly do our best to imitate Christ and follow in His paths in life, our life here on earth will end up being richer, too.
Which brings us back to material things, and I may get a little off subject here. God promised to feed and clothe us; He never promised a mansion, or 2 extra cars, or money in savings. He promised to meet our NEEDS. I think sometimes we get our needs and wants confused. I heard someone talking about priorities not long ago, and, although he was making a point, the 3 things he mentioned were the car payment, the light bill, and the cable bill. I certainly would not put those three as my top three priorities. The cable bill is obviously way down on my list, since at our house we don't even have the local channels. But my point is, what are your priorities? What do you "know [I] can't live without"? Cable? 2 cars? Electricity and running water? A house with enough bedrooms that no one has to share? What are definite needs, and what are "it is so nice to have"s? There again, if we are seeking after God, the material will become less important to us, and we can be like Paul and learn to be content no matter what state we are in.
Loving Father, Thank you for knowing my needs, both material and spiritual, and for providing for those needs. Please continue to bless me in such a manner that those things that I receive and the things that happen to me in life will always help me on my path to serve and please You, and to be able to help others along the way as well. In Christ's Holy name, Amen.
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