Munro Family of 5

A long overdue update

2011-10-18T20:26:00.001-04:00

Well here we are mid October 2011. Liam is playing football this year. Full contact. It's a great starter program. No games but two practices a week.
In the spring they will play other teams.
He is really enjoying it.
Liam is in grade 6 this year. This is his last year in grade school. We are having a hard time with that as he is only going to be 12 And being mixed in with 18 year olds. He is a mature boy, but he is so easily influenced. :(

Aidan is in grade 4 this year. He isn't in any programs as of right now but we are registering him for swimming next session. We has him at open doors for a few months. It is a counseling program which helped us work on his self esteem. He learned quite a bit. It was. Good program for him.

Helyn just turned 6 in September and is in grade 1. Where did my baby girl go?
She is doing well. She really enjoys playing with her friends and doing arts and crafts. She is such a sweet little girl full of love and sweetness.

I am still working for the midwives. It's full time now. It's always busy with lots to do. I really enjoy it and learn new things everyday.

Glen is still working hard with his business. Hard to believe its been two and a half years.

We added a new member to the family in march. A new puppy named jagermeister or jäger do short. He loves driving our 10 year old Sophie nuts and chases our cat Steve around for fun.

So that's it for now. I will start updating on a more regular basis.

I'm still here

2011-10-17T22:57:00.001-04:00

Back to update. I will post more updates now that I have the blogger ap on my phone. Stay tuned

Ugh

2010-10-15T08:04:00.006-04:00

Liam was in a cross country run for his school yesterday. He came in 45/60. A big improvment from last year where he came in 58th. He was happy with his accomplisment.We are proud of him too.

He has been having a hard time with Beckwith School lately. There is a girl in his class that likes to make his life hell. She controls what goes on in their lunch soccer game and likes to tell Liam to go to the other team when he ends up on hers. We are trying to teach him to speak up for himself... we feel if he makes his voice heard, she will let down eventually, we hope. He wants to go back to his other school. He has only been there for a month and he told us the reason he wanted to go there in the first place was to learn french so we are trying to convince him to stay a little longer. He is making some friends so that helps as well.

Aidan had his birthday party over the weekend. I will never have that many children over for a sleepover ever ever again! It was insanity. No huge problems, just a bunch of different personalities that didn't mess all the time and neither Glen nor I had enough patience or energy to keep up with them all the time. The moral of the story is Aidan had fun, the boys had fun and that's all we can ask for right? Thank you to Ethan, Aiden, James, Sam, Tye, Rylan for coming and for the wonderful gifts. :)

Helyn went shopping last night with her birthday money from Nanny and picked out a ..... gasp..... Barbie! This is new to her, but she is enjoying dolls lately.. not sure what I think about it, but she is a girl so I guess its welcome LOL. Where did this little girl come from? She still enjoys playing lego and pokemon with the boys, but when it comes down to it, she enjoys the barbies and polly pockets more. Ahhhh.

Long and Overdue update

2010-10-08T12:21:00.002-04:00

It has been quite the year.

We lost our Papa Murray on Valentine's day this year.

My baby sister got married and is expecting their second baby in April next year.

Liam has switched schools from Arklan Public School to Beckwith so he could take the French Immersion program.It is quite the adjustment for him, he is having his good days and bad days, but he is trying and that is all that matters.

Helyn is going to Senior Kindergarten and the Ready to Learn Program at the Daycare.. so she is all day every day for school this year. She is loving school and learning so much.

Aidan is in the 3rd Grade and doing wonderfully. He is enjoying his time with friends and doing his best at school. Can't believe he is going to be 8 on Monday. Where does the time go?

Hey Hey

2009-12-27T18:49:00.002-05:00

Christmas is over.
The kids had a good one.

Money was tight this year, but we were still able to pull of some nice presents.
There was a lot of lego, board games and other non electrical toys this year which was a good thing as we had no power for most of Boxing day. LOL.

It was great to see them enjoy their toys.

Glen's work is keeping him busy at the moment which is good. We are trying to bank on it and stay ahead.

Work for me is good. I was off for nearly 2 weeks with a cold. I am back tomorrow.
Feeling better now thank goodness. Funny, no one else got sick thankfully.... I was the only one who got the H1N1 Shot. Hmmm co inky dink??

Going to have a quiet new years too. Having a few friends over for drinks and the kids will be here so nothing too wild.

Hope you all had a great holiday and have a fabulous new year.

Food Values

2009-10-26T12:38:00.000-04:00

I found a website with point values

http://quiddity.cc/rachel/diet/wwfoods.htm

New beginnings

2009-10-26T12:27:00.002-04:00

Going to try and update this more.
Its going to be more like a diary.. I need a place to keep myself accountable for my actions.

I am started back on WW today. Counting my points, and going to exercise daily.

This is my menu for today.

Banana 3
eng muf with peanut butter 3
apple 1
Ham3
Mashed Tapatoes 3
mmixed veggies 0
coffee with mil 2
almonds 2
apricots 1
popcorn 2

Grand total for the day is 20 points.

I want to be down 10 pounds by Christmas and down 20 in total by the time I reach my goal.
I haven't weighed myself yet.. our Wii Scale is down at the moment.. might need a new sensor thing for it.
I am estimating my weight to be 155.. would like to be 130-135 by the end of my new life style.
Going to do 20 minutes of exercise each day on tp of walking to and from work.

September Update

2009-09-25T13:05:00.002-04:00

Its been a Little while since we have updated.
Nothing new and exciting really.

We moved the boy's bedroom to the basement where they have a much bigger space. They love having their own floor.

School is going well for both of them. Liam joined the track and field team. I have to talk to Mrs. White about them going away for their events ( Liam said they are competing in Almonte).

Aidan is riding his bike almost daily and getting lots of exercise and etc. We had to take away his DS for a while. He only gets it on bad weather days now if he can't make other plans. He has to make the effort to do something before he gets the chance to play it.

Helyn is adapting well to school so far. She is exhausted when she comes home, but overall is getting along with the other kids and doing her work. She points out letters that she recognizes in signs and spells her name with no hesitation. She had a great birthday. We had a slumber party theme party with the slumbering. The kids all wore PJS and we did make up, hair and nails. It was very cute. I will post pics later on.

Work is going well. I am able to do things second nature now and don't have to ask nearly as many questions. The Midwives are friendly and helpful and Janet ( the administrator )gives me lots of feedback and things to do. I started running with my neighbour Elizabeth this week. We are at 10 minutes walking fast and 1 minute running for week 1... next week we will walk for 9 run for 2.. etc.

Glen is doing ok with work. It slowed a bit, as work usually does in his business around this time, but we are hopeful it will pick up again.

I am loving the fallness around us. It is gorgeous weather mid day and cooler at night. It makes me pretty happy. I am going to get out with the kids today and get some pics of the beautiful leaves.

Hope all is well... keep in touch.

Time to update

2009-09-08T19:48:00.002-04:00

The kids started school today.
Liam is in grade 4 in Mrs Coleman's class, Aidan is in Mrs. Pentz's grade 2 class and Helyn in Mr Patterson's kindergarten class.

They all had a great first day. They are tired, but good. Hopefully they will be in bed early enough. I took them to the park after dinner.. then its clean up time and bed.

The Crampton Crew this morning before school.

On the way.

Where did August go?

2009-08-19T08:14:00.003-04:00

Its already the 19th??!! Seriously?? When did that happen?

Its been a busy month. The kids have had playdates, sleepovers and lots of outside time ( up until last week at least with the heat).

Liam has been flipping through the Christmas wishbook lately and pointing out all that he wants... its too early for Christmas! He has been enjoying his bigger boy freedom. We let him go around the block to his friend's houses and to the park by himself even though I still have a hard time letting him go. He is 9 1/2 and I should let him have more freedom.. but its still hard. He is also talking about when he turns 10 next year and how he will be able to stay home by himself after school until I get home. Why does he want to grow up so fast?

Aidan is doing well. He taught himself to ride a 2 wheeler a few weeks back and is now riding like he has been doing it forever. Me thinks the scooter he got a few months back helped him find his balance.

Helyn has been talking up a storm. She really is coming out of her shell and starting to look, sound and act more like a 4 year old. She is always asking for help and now trying to recruit the boys into it. She calls them that... not her brothers but " My boys." "Mommy, where are my boys?"
Its so cute.

Work is settling in now. Things are getting easier. I am getting to know all the midwives and how they are.. its getting there.

Glen is doing ok with work. He is staying busy and I guess that is what counts.

Long over due post

2009-08-07T18:26:00.003-04:00

Hi.. Its me.
Life is so busy with me working now.
The job is going well. I think I am finally finding my niche and getting comfortable now. The midwives are really helpful and understanding with my questions and yea.. Its good.

The kids are adjusting well too. They really don't seem to notice that I am gone during the day. LOL. They are happy to say " Bye Mom, see you later" and just as happy to greet me when I come home. Its good.

Becky came up last weekend to watch the kids while we went camping. It was great to see her and Ben. Ben gave me the best snuggles ever. Love him so much.

Camping was great. Very relaxing and the weather couldn't have been more perfect.

Glen's business is doing well. Its tough getting used to the lesser amount of a paycheck, but we are making due. We still have the house and the bills are getting paid.

Um... what else can I say?? Nothing much. I will try and get on at least once a week to update. If there is anything I haven't touched on, comment and ask and I will answer.

Going to Belleville this weekend with my friend Tanya for some time away. It will be fun.

On to new things.

2009-07-08T13:49:00.002-04:00

I can't believe that the time has come already.

Next Monday, in 5 days, I will be working outside of the home.For the first time in 7.5 years, I will not be home all day with my kids.

For the first time in 7.5 years, I will have to leave the house on a regular basis and leave my kids in the hands of another person.

For the first time in 7.5 years, I will be Christine, not Mommy, for 8 hours a day.

I knew I wanted to work outside of the home again. I knew that it was time to go onto that second stage of my life, our family's life, but it doesn't make it any easier.

The kids will be fine.

I will be fine.

Our family will be fine.

We will go on and we will succeed.

I will just miss the all day interactions with my kids, friends and family.

The times they are a changin.

2009-06-26T08:16:00.002-04:00

Its been a crazy week this week and I am thankful that it is coming to an end.

Lots has happened this week.

First of all, the kids finished school. The boys did wonderful on their report cards. They improved on almost all of their subjects ( even just from a b to a b + or a b- to a b+). We were very proud. We let them pick out something at walmart to reward them. Aidan picked a bakugon and Liam a pack of hockey cards. They are good boys.

All of the kids are out of school now. Yesterday at one point, there were 15 of them around. Not all of them were with me.. but it was crazy nonetheless.
Today is quieter and the next couple weeks will be even more so.

And as most of you know, I have accepted a new job as receptionist for the Ottawa Valley Midwives here in town. Its 4 days a week, with benefits and in a place where I really want to be. I have accepted the fact that I may not be able to be a midwife myself but I still would like to pursue being a doula once the kids are old enough ( a few more years). We need a steady income with benefits. Glen's business is doing well but he is self employed and we need those benefits for the kids.

Its a big transition. I love being home with my kids and I have great kids who are in my care, that is why this is so hard to move on. The families took it well and are happy for my future but we are both sad that we are losing each other. I lose Waylon and Emma after next week for certain and Emily and Jorian's parents are looking for someone.. it could be anywhere between next week and the week after.

I will keep this updated with the changes and everything. I still have nights and weekends to update the blog. LOL

Hope all is great out there in blog land. Everyone have a great weekend.

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-21T18:14:00.002-04:00

Happy Father's day!

This is Glen's 10th Father's day. The kids made him some great gifts at school. Aidan made him an Inuk Shuk that says Dad Rocks. ( very cute) and Liam made him a health kit with different items in it to help him along in life ( like marbles in case he has lost some and a piece of rope if he is at the end of it).
Helyn and I made him breakfast this morning with what we had on hand as we didn't get groceries until this morning. French Toast, fried Bologna and scrambled eggs it was. LOL.

I tried calling my daddy today to tell him I loved him and to chat, but haven't heard from him yet.. so Happy Father's day Dad. I love you.

Last night we were at my friend Aimee's for poker. I had never played Texas Hold em. It was pretty fun. Thanks Aimee for having us and Thanks Kirsten for bringing the wine. It was great to be out of the house.

Next week I am going to see Chicago the Musical with Sandra. Its going to be fun. I can't wait to see it.

Dentist appointments.

2009-06-08T19:31:00.002-04:00

I had my tooth fixed by Uncle Stu today.
It went well. Not too sore. Glad its done for now. Lets hope I don't have anymore root canals any time soon.

Liam had a cavity. He got it filled and did well. He didn't like it, can't say I blame him. Stu said when we go back in November, we will use sealant on his teeth to help prevent cavities.

Aidan's teeth were good. Well... sort of LOL. His incisors are coming in looking like fangs. LOL I am very interested to see what they look like when they finally pop through. Seems like my vampire fantasies are projecting through in real life.

I started working out again today. I took nearly 2 weeks off. I know.. bad Christine. I am ready now. My energy is next to nil so I need something. Tonight I did Tae Bo ( thanks for the advice Aimee)... and so I am sure I will be sore tomorrow. I will keep doing my DVD's or Wii Fit every day until I get that energy zap back.

Glen has a busy week ahead of him. He has been able to keep his calendar full for the last 3 weeks.... so lets hope this is a trend.

2009-06-07T16:25:00.002-04:00

Helyn's battlewound

Aidan and his treasure out of his treasure box for reading at school.

Helyn and her friends Georgia and Emily.

Liam getting his award at school

Aidan getting his award at school

Helyn at the ceremony

The finished living room set up. Glen has been working hard on renovations for the passed few months. He has done a great job.

and a pic of the kitchen.

and the clean garage

Its been a little while since my last post.

2009-06-07T15:26:00.003-04:00

Since my last post.

I got my second root canal.

Glen lost his job and started up his own business called Simplified Audio Video. He is still doing installation, programming and home theater but for himself. He has a few contacts who are feeding him business and he is keeping his calendar filled. Proud of him.

We went camping at the KOA in Mallorytown with Nana and Papa on the May long weekend. We froze our butts off. It was wet, cold ... no freezing. We made out 2 night stay into a one night stay. Our friend Chris and Sandra and their puppy Rudy also came with us. It was Nana and papa's 40th wedding anniversary so we also had dinner with Linda and Ted. It was very much fun.. much was learned.... LOL

Helyn got a cut on her eye and required medical glue to keep it shut. Nearly 5 hours in the ER for that one.

Liam and Aidan both got positive people awards. Liam for Effort and Perseverance and Aidan for Citizenship. I love these awards because they reward children for good deeds and being good people. Again.. very proud.

Tomorrow me and the kids go see Uncle Stu for some Dental stuff.

Long overdue update.

2009-05-19T12:33:00.003-04:00

Yea.. I guess I have been avoiding the blog so I don't have to address the fact that Glen isn't working right now.
Yep.. you heard me.
He took a weekend off at the beginning of the month and his first day back, they give him his lay off papers.
He is in the process of starting up his own business so that means a lot of money going in, and very little in our pockets. We are also trying to think of ways to save money. Cutting down on groceries and luxury items is a big one. Possibly getting rid of the satelite and watching our energy consumption is another.

Its funny because for the last couple years, I have been trying to save us money and there has always been these I need this and I need that from everyone.. and we don't have any money saved up right now.

So I need to either get a part time job for the evenings and weekends or pick up more kids. I can't get a full time job.. I would be paying just for day care and making maybe 10$ a day afterwards.

The kids are doing good. They are a little upset that we won't have extra money for fun stuff this summer.. but I am trying to keep it exciting for them. There are lots of free activities that I can set up, and we can go camping at Nana and Papa's lot on the St. Lawrence.

We went camping this weekend at Mallorytown with friends of ours and Nana and Papa. The kids had a great time and we froze Saturday night, so we cut the trip short. Thankfully we did as Helyn threw up and I caught this cold.

Need another root canal.

2009-04-21T11:34:00.004-04:00

Yea me.
Went in to see Uncle Stu yesterday to get a filling filled from the other root canal and now I need to get another root canal done. Remind me to call the other dentist after I get off of here.
Not looking forward to that at all.

This weekend was another busy one.
I was at my friend Tanya's Friday night, then Glen drove in with the kids on Saturday and we spent the day in the city. My friend Crash came and drove us home.. what an Angel.. thanks so much!!
Then on Sunday was our friend Kayla's birthday so we went and celebrated with the family and had some cake. Very fun.

The kids are good... which is strange that no one is really causing trouble and getting along.. waiting for something to give.. but yea.

So here are some pics from Kid's Zone

And one from Ladies night

Yuck

2009-04-07T13:18:00.003-04:00

This weekend was rough and carried on to the wee hours of this morning.

Helyn started throwing up Friday night/Saturday morning and carried on through the day Saturday.

I started feeling rough Saturday late morning but nothing worse than the headache and nausea ( no... not pregnant!!). My tooth that I got the root canal in at the end of February needs the permanent filling and I won't be getting that until the 20th of this month.

Liam was complaining of a headache yesterday morning so we kept him home to rest up. He didn't get any worse than that.. no fever or anything.

Last night on the way home from buying Glen new shoes, Helyn throws up in the car. She had had a few loose bms yesterday but nothing bad.

Just before midnight last night, Aidan started throwing up and continued all night.

For precaution, I kept both boys home today. They have been resting up in my room away from the rest of us and eating lightly.. sticking to the Brat Diet ( bananas rice applesauce and toast) and light fluids.

I am freaking exhausted!!! I need some sleep at some point.. from Friday night until last night, I have been functioning on 4-5 hours of sleep and frequent wakings and lots of caffine and tylonol for the pain in my mouth.

I need a holiday!

Guess who we are going to see???

2009-04-04T11:21:00.003-04:00

We are going to see Metallica on October 29th!!

I was online and trying to get through on the phone for 20 minutes.. had great tickets and then i had to reset my security prefs!!!! SOB!!!!

So we got tickets in the 300 section :(.

Ah well... they are still going to be fun!!

Nicer weather = nicer moods.

2009-03-28T14:05:00.003-04:00

The weather was so unpredictable this week... between warm and gorgeous and cold and rainy.
Horrible.

Me and the kids and a couple of their friends took advantage of the nicer weather and headed down to the park this morning ( you know me... I need an entourage of children with me when I go anywhere * rolleyes* ).

So here are some fun pics.

Nothing to report on right now.. just that everyone is in a good mood and so then I am too.

Pics

2009-03-25T20:14:00.001-04:00

2009-03-24T20:34:00.001-04:00

Liam

Aidan

Helyn

Little update.

2009-03-24T20:20:00.002-04:00

We all survived March Break. I spent the weekend drinking to help me forget the stress. LOL. The week started out shaky with the whining and the tattling and etc, but ended on a good note on pajama day on friday.

We had a weekend full of parties. Aidan had a party for his friend Tye Saturday morning, me and the kids went to Georgia's party for the afternoon and daddy went to the hockey game with Chris that night.
Liam went to Steven's party for part of the afternoon and then on to a playdate with Aidan's friend Aiden Austin. Glen met Aiden's parents before we moved out to Carleton Place so we thought it would be great to get together. It was a great night.

Helyn has been pottying like a champ lately. Every 2 days without lactulose or mineral oil. Just good old fashioned fiber, liquids and her good food diet has been working like a charm. Her attitude could use some adjustment.. but that is the 3 year old in her. We had a few stand offs the last few weeks, but they have been getting less and less. We went to playgroup today for the first time since November, and she was listening so much better than in the fall. We are going to have to go more often now that the weather is nicer.

Liam ... oh Liam... the power struggles.... ahhhh. He wants more video game time. He wants more freedom to do things on his own... he is trying to be so persuasive too.. its just yanks at your heart each time he pleads and begs for something. Thank goodness Glen is being my rock and reminding me of certain boundaries we have set for the kids like no video games from Monday to Thursday. We made a deal that if he could pull up his grades, he can get more time with his DS and the Wii... so he is going to try.

Aidan just lost 2 more teeth. His bottom 2 front ones. He lost the first one while eating toast on Sunday morning and the other on Sunday night while eating a burger. He was so excited to lose 2 in one day.

Both of the boys got their report cards just before March break. They did really well in all areas. Lots of A's and B's. They both need to focus and made themselves seen and heard in classroom discussions.

Glen has been busy finishing work around the house the last few weeks and the house is really coming together. I am so proud of him for coming forward and finishing it up. It is going to look amazing all pulled together. He has been really helpful around the house as well. I think we were both in a big slump over the winter and I am so appreciative of his help with getting the house back in order. I just wish I could do the bigger jobs that he can do... but I just can't with Helyn at my heels all the time and the other day care kids.

I am working on my clutter issues. Its really hard to keep a routine going but its babysteps... I am working on the big problem areas of mine and expanding from there. Its a coming.

I loathe March Break.

2009-03-16T15:50:00.000-04:00

I really do.
I am tired and its only the first day.

Damn You Wii Fit!!

2009-03-12T09:45:00.000-04:00

Oh it was so fun and easy to play.. but man.. today my ass and thighs are so stiff! LOL

Busy last few days!!!

2009-03-11T12:36:00.002-04:00

I don't remember a whole lot of the weekend LOL.
But yea.. it was busy. Glen finished the floor on the main level that he started before he got sick in December. It looks great! Just the trim and some painting to do and its done. Oh and the stairs.. but it looks great!

Monday was Helyn's appointment with the Gastro Ped. He pretty much told me, to paraphrase, to keep doing what I was doing and eventually her little rectum will go back to normal. He is encouraging me to use mineral oil and lactulose as its non habit forming and once she shrinks back to normal, she will get the feeling to go and thus the problem will fix itself. He didn't examine her or anything but he said according to what I told him, that he doesn't feel like there is a condition. Sigh.
We will go back to see him in a month's time and see where she is at.

Last night Crash and I went to see Motley Crue, Hinder and Theory of a Deadman at the Scotiabank Place. We carpooled in with Kirsten and her sister ( thanks girls) and had a wicked time!!
I didn't bring my camera as the last time I brought it, I was bitched at by the usher that I couldn't have a professional camera there. I am hoping someone has some pics I can post later.

Tonight Glen is at the Tampa Bay game with Mark. I hope he has fun.

I got the Wii Fit today. Thanks again to Kirsten for letting me have the one that came up that she was waiting for and giving me some shoppers points to bring me to 75$ off my purchase!!! That's right folks, i got the Wii Fit for 37$.... what a deal!!

I did my age calculation and based on my balance, bmi and actual age.. I am 31!!! Yea!!! 2 years younger than I am.. i thought that was too cool. I did 25 minutes this afternoon and I am hoping to do some more tonight. Lets hope this helps me tone up and lose some inches so I can look good and fit into my clothes again.

Yea... Friday !!!

2009-03-06T13:46:00.002-05:00

Oh the week from ARGH!

My lovely children most likely gave me grey hairs this week.
Liam had tests and homework up the yin yang!!
Aidan was whiny and needy and Helyn... well... I don't really need to go into how Helyn is do i?

Last night was ladies night with Aimee. It was fun. We had a hot tub, drank some whine and whined. It was great to be out. Thanks Aimee for having us and thanks also to Kirsten for being there to share.

I am just so beat. I had this cold... again... and its zapping my energy.I am just so tired. I went for a walk on Monday with Kirsten and I am hoping with the way the weather is going that I can get out nightly for at least 45 minutes to get in some exercise.

Looks like its going to be a busy weekend for us too.. will write about our adventures as I can. I will be sure to take pics.

Happy Birthday to Me.

2009-03-04T11:55:00.002-05:00

I turned 33 yesterday and funnily enough.. I enjoyed it. LOL

I usually have a really hard time with my birthday.. not sure why or where it stemmed from but I guess its Genetic as Helyn does too.LOL.

Me and Glen went to the Flames game where we lost 5-3.

The boys made me cards. Lena and the kids cleaned the house for me while we were at the game. Crash and Mark gave me a lovely necklace and toilety stuff, Kirsten brought me a nice card and this morning Kira surprised me with yellow roses.

Nana and Papa gave me some lotions and soaps this weekend when we had dinner with them as well.

Oh but Glen got me the best gift. He got me a tool box and a hammer. I am really excited about this as I would like to learn how to fix things around the house and with my own tools its going to help. Crash gave me a all in one screwdriver a month ago too so its something he can keep adding to... wink wink.

Anyways.. thanks to everyone for the birthday wishes. I had a wonderful day.

Liam's birthday Dinner

2009-02-27T11:28:00.002-05:00

His Dinner guests

Little sisters??

Presents

The cake

Its official

2009-02-26T07:57:00.003-05:00

I have a 9 year old.
He and Aidan woke up at 6 this morning. I don't know why i remind him that he was born at 610 am.

So yea.. he had breakfast and then his announcement went on the TV.

After school he will bring home his friends and we will have a little birthday dinner for him since he decided to forego the party this year.

Happy Birthday Liam.

Aidan is sick. He has a fever so he will be home resting all day today. Poor little guy.

Happy Birthday Liam.

2009-02-25T21:50:00.003-05:00

Wish I had had a digital Camera 9 years ago, but I didn't so Here is a picture of him at 10 months.

I can't believe that in a few short hours my little man is going to be 9.

We have a day full of little surprises for him. He knows about a few and doesn't about the other ones.

We filled his bedroom floor with balloons so when he wakes up he has to get around them.

I made his cake tonight.. it was his idea about what to make, glen gave me some creative input as well.. i hope he likes it.

Tomorrow he is having afew friends over for dinner then Daddy is taking him to the Sens vs San Jose game and he will have a birthday greeting on the Jumbo tron.

Also if you can catch A Channel Ottawa there will be a birthday greeting from us as well at 715ish.

So here is his cake and some pics from today

Helyn after she helped lick the bowl

Happy Birthday Liam.

2009-02-25T21:50:00.000-05:00

Oh My Gawd!!

2009-02-23T22:38:00.002-05:00

OK, so the root canal was a walk in the park compared to the rest of the day.

Liam is sick. He has a pretty bad cold. HE went to school this morning and feels worse tonight. I think he will be staying home tomorrow.

Our friend Crash had emergency surgery today. She is fine, but it was pretty crazy chaotic for a few hours. We went up to the hospital to sit with Mark while we waited for her to get out.

On our way home, Glen and I were chatting about how this one section of highway has black ice when we witnessed a car skid and fly into the ditch. Glen jumped out right away and ran to the young girl while I called 911. A police officer was there before I got through. The poor girl flipped her car. She had the whole enchilada there. The officer sent us on our way as Glen was freezing and full of snow.

So yea... can today get anymore action packed?

Feel better quickly Crash.

ok..... its Murphy's law isnt it?

2009-02-21T14:14:00.003-05:00

Helyn has her refferal.
She has went poo 3 times this week without any intervention.
I am baffled... but I am counting my blessings.

Today is a busy day.

Aidan just returned from him friend Ethan's party, Liam is at his friend Vanessa's party, Colby will be arriving around 3 for Liam's birthday Sleepover and then I will be heading out for a ladies party this evening.

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.

We have our refferal.

2009-02-20T12:50:00.000-05:00

Helyn's appointment is on the 9th of March in Smith Falls at 1045 am.
Yee Haw.
I am not cancelling it. LOL

7 more days

2009-02-19T19:45:00.002-05:00

Until Liam turns 9.
I don't feel old enough to have a 9 year old.

He is having his friend Colby sleep over on Saturday night. We are going to have snacky foods and the dessert pizza as his birthday cake.

We have 2 birthday parties to attend on Saturday.. Aidan has Ethan's at 1130 and Liam has his friend Vanessa's at 1. Then Colby will be coming over around 3. Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.

I have my root Canal on Monday at 720 with the dentist in Kanata. I am scared shitless. Not so much of the procedure, but having to keep my mouth open for an hour and a half while they dig and drill and etc.

Our lovely neighbour and surrogate Grandmother Lena is going to watch the kids for us, which means coming over at 645 in the morning. She will bring the boys to school and keep Helyn for the morning so I can rest.

Glen and Liam are at the Canucks game tonight. Oh which reminds me. If anyone gets A Channel Ottawa, There is going to be a birthday announcement for Liam around 720. And during the San Jose game, we have a birthday greeting going up as well. The guy is doing it for free... which is super cool as it is normally 50$ to get a message up.

Oh update on the poop situation... I think it may be resolving itself!!!
Helyn went on Tuesday and Wednesday without any suppository or medicine. She has been sitting longer on the potty and going more frequently too. So we are hopeful but not counting our chickens yet... keep her in your prayers that this is finally just starting to work.

Aidan is doing well. Not much to report really. He is still the snugglemaster 2000 and doing well at school and getting along well with his friends.

Family Day at the Museum of Nature

2009-02-17T07:36:00.002-05:00

Yesterday our friend's Kirsten, Andrew, Anna and Dave invited us to the museum of Nature in Ottawa. The boys had a great time!! Helyn not so much. It was off and on with her.

They have been remodelling since the last time we were there so its cleaner and brighter than what we remembered.

Ugh

2009-02-11T20:47:00.003-05:00

I have a tooth abcess.
Can I say oh SHIT?
So I have an appointmend for a root canal on the 23rd at 720 in the AM.
I am to keep taking the antibiotics and tylonol and advil as needed.

Yea for me.

Still waiting to hear for the referral appointment for Helyn. I meant to say before that the dr was amazing and tried really hard to settle Helyn, she just wasn't going for it.

Me and Glen went out for dinner tonight after the appointment. Our neighbour Lena watched the kids for us and told us to take our time so we did. She got Helyn in the bath... kicking and screaming mind you, but she is clean. THANKS LENA! LOL
The kids were good for her and the boys even cleaned their room.

So yea... I think that is all for now. I am tired... my mouth is still sore... I may have to go to bed soon.

Helyn's appointment.

2009-02-11T13:51:00.002-05:00

Didn't go so well.
First of all she didn't want to go see the dr.
She screamed all the way down the hall.
He tried to do a magic trick for her and she screamed some more.. then he told me I could bring her to daddy in the lobby.
So we talked and he is going to refer me to the gastrointestinal ped.

yea... he is baffled too.

Need Help!!!

2009-02-10T12:55:00.000-05:00

Liam's birthday is coming in in 2 weeks.

( my baby is going to be 9!!!!! CRAZY!!)

Anyways. The local station does birthday announcements and I am having a hard time picking a photo.

I need help!!

My pics are here... but if its easier, I can post them

http://www.flickr.com/photos/mom2lah/sets/72157613605037812/

I don't them to be too embarassing for him... Sigh.. such a hard age.

Starting to feel betrter.

2009-02-09T10:16:00.002-05:00

I went to the Er on Saturday night due to my mouth being in agony.
I have an infection so they gave me some different antibiotics and some pain killers to help at night.
I think I am finally starting to feel better today. My energy is coming back and my mouth isn't in horrible pain. The swelling is going down too. I have an appointment on Wednesday evening to get looked at by the dentist.

Helyn went potty yesterday. No suppository but a good dose of the lactulose helped.Her appointment is on Wednesday morning with the doctor.

We brought the boys skating yesterday afternoon. It was my first time on skates in over 15 or more years. I didn't do too bad. I thought I would have fallen more.. but I kept my composure. My skates are too small now though. I need a new pair.
The boys are doing so well lately with skating. Very proud of them.

I need help.

2009-02-02T13:38:00.003-05:00

Helyn is giving us big problems lately.
It is like she is another person.
She constantly fights us, and says Leave me Alone, Don't you talk to me, and other favorite phrases.

(I admit, I taught her Cut It Out with the hand gestures when I try to get her to stop things and now she says it with Authority and without the gestures.. although I could see using a single finger gesture. LOL)

She is fighting us Tooth and Nail when it comes to bedtime. First she told us it was her bed, she doesn't like her bed. We moved her bed and put a mattress on the floor for now. It worked for one night.. now we are back to her not wanting to be in her room. I believed it played out for over an hour last night.

I had to walk away and think about what I was doing last night. I was picking her up and putting her back on the bed she didn't want to be on, and walking out the door wit her screaming over and over again.

After the umpteenth time, I thought, how is this looking to her? Mommy is getting angrier and angrier and picking me up and putting me on the bed when I don't want to be on it and then running away.... It just broke my heart. So I put her back on the bed and I kept my tone quiet and comforting and stroked her hair until she calmed down. She finally settled and fell asleep.

Right now... These are the things she makes the biggest deal about.

She wont take a bath, or a shower for that matter. She was taking a shower, but only if you held her while you were cleaning her. Now she doesn't want one at all.

She doesn't want to go bed.

She doesn't want to use the big toilet.

She will only use the little blue potty ( if I am lucky) 2-3 times a day even though she should be peeing 20 times a day with all the liquid she has.

She is still not pooing.

She refuses to eat her dinner most of the time ( 1 out of 7 nights a week we might get her to eat).

Those are the only things that come to my head at the moment...

But yea... I am going to try to keep my cool and encourage her to do them.. but I don't know how to get her to do them. I was reading up on this book called unconditional parenting. You use love instead of discipline or time outs to encouragae your child to do things. I am on the fence about getting the book and just maybe using some of his ideas that I have read.

I am open to advice here. This girl has way more issues than the boys ever had. LOL

On the mend.

2009-01-31T15:50:00.002-05:00

Liam's school called yesterday to tell me he wasn't feeling well... sure enough he was throwing up all night after that. Poor guy. He did so well though. He made it to the bathroom every time (thankfully!!)He is feeling much better today. He was a little upset that I postponed his videogame party that we were going to have today.. but I wasn't sure how he was going to fell today.

Helyn pooped yesterday without help from the suppository!! I am so thankful for that. So that was 5 days in between her last one which was aided. She told me she had to pee, I brought her potty to the living room and she did both. Yee Haw.

Aidan is well.. no flu symptoms yet ( hopefully not at all). He was happy that I asked for him and Sierra to come home at the same time ( it was near the end of school when I got the call). He got lots of enjoyment telling everyone that Liam barfed! LOL.

Me and Glen are feeling much better. We had our first meal this week with meat in it last night and we survived. I think he is going to want to go out on the snowmobile tonight after the big dump of snow we got on Wednesday. Hopefully he can go.

That is all I have to update on... will talk more later this week.

We are back from the other side.

2009-01-29T16:22:00.002-05:00

The last 2 days have been murder.
Glen and I have been down and out with the flu for the last few days. I started on Tuesday night, but felt better during the day and got worse as dinner time hit.

Glen came home and asked me if I was feeling better because he was coming down with it too. Sorry to say it, but he was worse than I, but he felt a bit better this morning.. then started feeling worse again.. just as I did the day before.

Oh this sucks.. and so far the kids are good.. no symptoms.. and pray they don't get it. Its horrible.

Thanks a bunch to Kirsten for bringing crackers and soup and the flowers are awesome thanks!

Great weekend.

2009-01-27T08:31:00.002-05:00

Well Glen and the kids survived Mommy being away. I knew they would be fine, but I had hoped that the kids would have missed me more.
Glen said the kids were awesome. They behaved well and played well. The boys stayed up later on Friday and Saturday night and slept in both mornings until well after 8 ( why they don't do that for me, I dont know).

I spent Friday night with my friend Nancy and her 2 kids Jessica and James. I can't get over how much older they are now. LOL. When I first met Nancy, her kids were 4 and 5... and now they are 17 and almost 16. Both of them are taller than me... ahhhh. LOL

We caught up and had a nice visit on Friday and went shopping Saturday. I got a new pair of shoes and a red sweater... didn't have any money.. so I stayed light. LOL

I checked in at my room at 430ish and hoped to grab a nap, but I couldn't sleep... so I watched a movie and took a bath. By the time Sandra got there, I had had 3 glasses of wine LOL.
We went out to dinner at 1030 at a pub and listened to a live band and then danced for a bit afterwards. When the band came back on, we decieded to head back to the room to have some more wine and see how we felt afterwards. We just stayed in for the rest of the night.

It was a great weekend.. not too crazy.. but at the same time relaxing. Glen and Helyn came to get me and Sandra at noon and we headed home for naps. LOL.

I can't wait to do it again.. next time with maybe a few more friends.. we could rent a few rooms and have a little hotel party. LOL.

But first I would like to have a weekend out with just Glen and I. We need it.

February 11th.

2009-01-21T14:25:00.001-05:00

We finally have an appointment with the ped. for Helyn's issues on the 11th at 9 am.
Now that we have the appointment... i am hoping she will resolve on her own. LOL

3 more days.

2009-01-20T19:04:00.003-05:00

I go away for the weekend on Friday night!

Liam has been trying my patience lately. If its not one thing its another. I love him so much, but he doesn't have the drive to finish his homework, or clean his room when I ask, and always tries to barter to get his way. For instance today he asked if he could stay outside and play with his friends until Dinner then he would finish his homework after dinner.
He just finished his math and he asked if he could do his spelling tomorrow. He had a meltdown yesterday, so he only got a couple of lines of his math done in the first place and now he doesn't want to do his spelling.... Grrrrrrrrrrrrrr.

Helyn is still having poo issues. She had a suppository on Sunday to help clean her out. She begs and pleads me not to go near her when she hasn't went and is uncomfortable because she knows its going to come eventually. I figure 7 days is long enough without intervention. She is still on her high fiber, low sugar diet and gets the stool softener every day.. but she holds it as long as she can. Once she gets the suppository and she is cleaned out, she says thanks mommy for the suppository, my bum feels better.... its killing me.

Aidan... oh my Aidan.. he is back to the whining again.. but is tolerable lately. He is looking for more cuddles and more time spent with us is all. His reading is coming along great and his confidence is coming.

I think a weekend away couldn't have come at a better time.... except the fact that I am still under the weather and I think I am catching a cold.... please pray that it doesn't get worse than what it is now. I am on anti biotics right now... even though the dr at emergency couldn't see anything wrong with my throat or my ears... might be a sinus infection.. but you can't see that with an exam... so blah blah blah...

this isn't the cheeriest blog... but yea.. just an update really.

Hope everything is well with all of you.

Lots of hugs.

Molluscum Contagiosum

2009-01-15T12:20:00.003-05:00

Glen brought Liam to see the N.P this morning because he has these little bumps on his arm.
They didn't look like warts or moles so naturally I was concerned.

She says that she thinks they are something called Molluscum Contagiosum which is a skin rash caused by a virus that was first described in 1817. The virus is a member of the Pox virus family. It is common worldwide and accounts for about 1% of all skin disorders in the United States. It primarily affects children (boys more often than girls) and young adults. The incidence of molluscum contagiosum is increasing.

I also found this site if you are interested.

http://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/HealthAZ/Molluscum-Contagiosum.aspx?articleID=8731&categoryID=

He has an appointment to get them burned off on the 29th at 845 am. Luckily its a PA day so if he is uncomfortable, I can help him manage the pain.

This is so weird. I had hoped it was nothing but a rash.. but yea.. Its not that horrible but anything that affects my kids freaks me out.. as you know.

Liam is not bothered by it, he says they are not itchy or anything so at least i have that to keep me happy for now.

Helyn is still not pooping regularly... we were doing good for the first week on lactulose and now it doesn't help at all. Glen brought it up with the N.P. and she is going to get back to us and refer us to a pediatrician

More missing teeth.

2009-01-14T20:36:00.001-05:00

DSC_0002
Originally uploaded by mom2lah

Aidan lost tooth number 2 on Monday. This time he kept the little tooth holder in his backpack so he wouldn't lose it.
I begged him to let me take this picture.
He looks so cute and he is learning to talk normal again.
My little man is growing up.

Snuggle Bums

2009-01-14T20:35:00.001-05:00

Daddy and Helyn (2)
Originally uploaded by mom2lah

Helyn Fell asleep in daddy's arms tonight.
She just snuggled right in and passed out.

Sliding pics

2009-01-12T13:33:00.002-05:00

I took the kids sliding yesterday while Daddy was out and about Snowmobiling.
They had fun.
Helyn only went down once, then was happy playing in the snow from them on.

ok... Enough!

2009-01-09T13:55:00.003-05:00

I am going to get my body back.
I have put it on the back burner for too long and its time to get working out and eating properly again.
I have been eating pretty good this week, Its hard to break old habits but the junk from the holidays is gone so I have no excuse now.

I got a couple new exercise DVD's the other day and some new weights. Time to get in shape.

I did the Skinny Bitches boot Camp this afternoon and despite the corny dialogue between the 2 girls, the exercises were good and I could feel the burn.

My goal is to do 30 minutes a day 4 times a week at least ( if i can get in more great) and I am going to alternate what I do. I have a dancercize type disk, pilates, yoga and walk away the pounds. Once the weather warms up, i am hoping to be in better shape to start jogging a few days a week too.

Wish me Luck. I want to be in better shape and feel more confident in my clothes and in a bathing suit.

Back Online

2009-01-07T12:32:00.002-05:00

Glen finally set up the networking stuff for the internet so its up and running again after 2 weeks. He graciously let me use his lap top to check in and post little things here and there when he was home.

So yea.. I will update more now.

Aidan did get a visit from the toothfairy on Monday night. He left his certificate that he got from school that said he was now a member of the I lost a tooth club under his pillow and he got a crisp 5$ bill. Now, before you say hey, I only got a quarter, the tooth fairy usually leaves a bill for the first tooth and then a toonie for everyone after.

He was tickled about it.

Helyn has been doing ok.
She had went 7 days between bm's between Christmas and New Years. Her last one now was Sunday. I didn't give her any laculose for a few days in hopes that being back on her diet had helped ( over Christmas and being sick didn't help us feed her like we were) and she went on her own. So proud of her.

Liam has been doing ok. He gets moodier and moodier off and on. I know he is growing and his hormones are probably changing so I am trying to stay calm and now freak out about his little things, but its hard. I had a little blow up this morning... didn't yell too loud, but I scared him and we had a good talk afterwards. He was blowing up when I blew up, so we talked about what I could have done differently and what he could have. It was a good talk and he left happy for school... so that was what mattered most to me.

We are getting a huge dump of snow today. about 15-20 cms by the end of today, We will be getting more before the week is over too. So if you hear a snow mobile whipping by tonight, its most Likely Glen. LOL

My baby boy is growing up

2009-01-05T21:55:00.001-05:00

He yanked it during french class.
Poor guy misplaced it on the way home from school.

Updates in the new year.

2009-01-04T16:24:00.002-05:00

Been busy now that we are feeling better. LOL

New Years eve the kids spent the night with Nana, Papa, Uncle James and cousins Lochlan,Mackenzie and Lincoln. Me and Glen had planned on having a party but due to the bugs we had, we weren't feeling much up to it until the 31t, and even then, Glen did something to his back, so we opted to leave it quietish. We had our neighbours Kathy,Her Hubby Mark and 8 year old Elizabeth over to watch the Canada/Usa game for the IIHF. It was a great game btw. Our friend Kirsten also came over from accross the street for a few drinks.

We were in bed shortly after midnight. LOL

We went over to have dinner and opened presents with the kids at Lynn and Murray's the next day. The kids had a good time, but everyone was zonked. Thanks for having us Lynn.

Friday we had no heat in the house. Our Furnace stopped working either on the 1st or the 2nd and it was 50 degrees in the house when we woke up. Another factor in the cold was that the door was ajar in the morning. How we missed that before we headed to bed, I can't tell ya. So I baked some cookies and made the kids some pancakes, did a few loads of laundry and used the dishwasher to warm up the house a bit then ended with using the self clean on the oven. LOL it warmed it up to 60 degrees. The repair guy got here around 11 and he was done at 1. Turned out one of the hoses is cracked and the circuits got wet. He fixed it and we had wonderful heat from then on.

If you are in Carleton Place, Comfort Pro heating is a great little company to come and fix your issues. They were fast to come and very thorough.

Last night we had some more friends over for New Years part 2. It was a good time. Lots of drinks, laughs and stuff. The kids stayed up later and I think we were in bed after 2. It was fun. Thanks to Crash, Mark, Sandra, Chris and Kirsten for making it a good time... oh and Kayla who had us laughing.

Glen is going to the USA/Russia game tonight with Mark tonight. It should be fun for him.

So yea... tomorrow the kids go back to school!!!
Its time. They are getting ansy... it will be good to have them back on a schedule.

Update on the sickies.

2008-12-29T18:05:00.002-05:00

Well we survived, by the skin of our teeth.
I was sick from the 23rd until pretty much yesterday. Glen started with the fevers and same symptoms as me on the night of the 26th.
He went to the Er this morning as work sent him home, and he has strep. I probably have it too, but I have had it in my system for over a week now, so I am not sure if they will do anything for me.
I am off the next 3 days from all of the kids, so I am going to take it easy and just have some quiet time with them.
The kids had a great Christmas.

Not sure if we are going to have people over like we had decided to, since we are still recovering.

Will keep you all updated on that. WOuld be nice to have an adults night, but we yea... wont be great hosts feeling like a hot mess.

few more photos to add.

2008-12-25T21:27:00.002-05:00

The boys new Jammies from Santa

the boys playing with the hotwheels track that I put together all by myself!!

Helyn and Daddy having cookies

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T15:53:00.003-05:00

It was a smaller Christmas this year as compared to last year, but the kids still love their presents and appreciate them so I am happy.

I wasn't feeling too hot yesterday evening and I went up to bed for a nap after Glen came home. After I slept for a short bit, I heard him telling the kids that we couldn't open a gift because mommy was sick and it wouldn't be fair if I didn't get to see. Well sick or not, Christmas was going to happen. I dragged myself out of bed and jumped on the couch and the kids were allowed to open one gift. They were pretty happy so that made my day.

Glen went out and got me some more Tylonol Cold and we got the kids to bed, he went to finish assembling the gifts at our Friends Crash and Mark's and I tried to get some stuff done, but felt too yucky to do so... so after he got home, I went up to bed around 11.

The kids got up at 7 ( as I requested the night before... they are so good) and we all went downstairs to see what was under the tree.

Liam's favorite gift is his Guitar Hero Air Guitar toy, Aidan's is his pokeball game toy and Helyn's is the Wonder Pets FlyBoat.

They got some really cool gifts. Thanks to everyone.

We have New Years with Nana and Papa so they get to open presents with them that day... Christmas Part 2... Aidan was asking when we were going to have Christmas again. LOL.

Glen took the kids sledding this afternoon with their new sleds, they really enjoyed that. Then we had a very early dinner ( 330) LOL and now they are free to play and they can have a snack before bath. I think next year we are going to have our turkey dinner on Christmas EVE. Every year, they aren't hungry enough for dinner no matter what time we eat at or if they eat lunch or not.

So here are some pics... enjoy.

Boys opening their stockings

Opening Presents from Daddy

Helyn's turn

I was just nuts..

2008-12-24T11:52:00.002-05:00

Last night I developed a fever and aches and shakes.
I wrote down emergency numbers for Liam, just in case... I didn't want him to be worried or concerned but said just in case buddy. LOL

I talked to a few people on the phone who said I was right out of it too.

Funny Stuff.

I am feeling slightely better today, but still trying to recover. No fever or aches.. just the headache and fatigue and sore throat.

Keep us in your thoughts and prayers that no one else gets sick for Christmas Please.

Flu for Christmas?

2008-12-23T14:12:00.000-05:00

I dont know what I have, but its not good.
My head hurts, my body aches, my throat is sore..

Shoot me now.

The kids seem to be healthy and fine... but Glen isn't feeling well either...

What a great Christmas this will be for us.

Pray that the kids don't get it.

Wow... she is a girl

2008-12-22T19:46:00.001-05:00

I was talking to my mom last night telling her how Helyn isn't into the dress up stuff, then tonight Helyn says " Mommy, I want to be a princess".

So we went up to her room and got her crown and a princess dress and got her done up.

And I couldn't help but get a picture of her little piggies...

Poor baby girl.

2008-12-18T20:17:00.003-05:00

She went 4 days this time.
Poor little thing. It was so big.

I wish I could make it easier for her.

Tomorrow is the last day of school before the Holidays. The kids are uber excited. I am too. It will be nice.
I am off for 5 days next week ( 24th until the 29th) and then again the next weekend for new years. I am hoping we can have a few nice family days together. Glen is off the 24th-27th so we can get in some quality time there.

Liam is going to be reading this Sunday for Church. The kids make ornaments for the tree and each of them symbolize something. This week is Butterfly and it symbolizes resurrection, new life and the resurrected body of Jesus.
Liam has to do the introduction for the children to put their ornaments on the tree.

Aidan has 5 or 6 loose teeth that are just hanging in there. It would be so cute for him to finally lose one. His gaps are getting so big as it is.

The kids have really been enjoying their space in the basement for the last few days. Its amazing to have it. Thanks Glen for finally finishing it.

Here are some pictures of the boys skating this past Monday. Their last Class is on Monday next week.

Aidan

Helyn

Glen looking all crazy

Liam

No, Not yet Liam

2008-12-16T21:35:00.002-05:00

Liam approached me today about something his friends have been talking about at school. They seem to believe that its the parents who put the presents under the tree and fill the stockings. He asked me if it was true.

I asked him what he thought.

He said he thinks that it is Santa.

I told him that to stop believing in Santa is to stop believing in magic, in god or in miracles. We never told the kids that Santa exists or doesn't. We have told them that Santa is a feeling and is a part of everyone like a soul and part of you.

I am not ready for him to stop believing.

What am i going to do?

I searched the net and found the article from The New York Sun to a little girl Virginia who wants to know if he is real. It makes me teary each time I read it.

Is There a Santa Claus?
From the Editorial Page of The New York Sun,
written by Francis P. Church, September 21, 1897

We take pleasure in answering thus prominently the communication below, expressing at the same time our great gratification that its faithful author is numbered among the friends of The Sun:

"Dear Editor--I am 8 years old.
"Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus.
"Papa says, 'If you see it in The Sun, it's so.'
"Please tell me the truth, is there a Santa Claus?
Virginia O'Hanlon
115 West Ninety-fifth Street

Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the scepticism of a sceptical age. They do not believe except they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus! It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias. There would be no child-like faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if you did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, , romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.

No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood

http://www.stormfax.com/virginia.htm

More Poo

2008-12-14T18:52:00.001-05:00

Helyn went today again.
Seems like we have an every 2 day pattern going on.
We are still giving her the lactulose, but a smaller dose now.

So... who knows... maybe we will knick this thing in the bud... I have to keep giving it to her for a couple weeks and then ween her off. Keep her in your thoughts and prayers that this works please.

Sunday School Play

2008-12-14T12:50:00.002-05:00

We have been going to Church for the last couple months as per request from Liam.
He really likes it, Helyn is unsure and Aidan really doesn't like to go, but he has agreed to come a few times.

Today was their Christmas Play. Liam was an angel and his friend Kyle was a sheppard. The play went really well.
Helyn was rolling around in the aisles for a bit but then joined her brother on stage for a couple of songs. LOL

Here are a few pics, enjoy.

Liam and Kyle

I love this one, look at Kyle's face.

Helyn rolling in the aisles

Helyn joining in on stage

Group photo

Helyn wanting me to take a picture of her. I think that is why she jumped up on stage in the first place.

Updates

2008-12-12T17:32:00.003-05:00

Helyn went poo today.
That is 2 days in between.
Poor baby girl fought it all day. I think she may still have some in her, but maybe after dinner.

She is in good spirits, we just have to teach her that poo shouldn't hurt and won't each time she goes if she goes regularily.

Aidan has really really loose front teeth. He might be singing that favorite Christmas song before we know it. He bit into an apple last night and I don't think he will be doing that for a while until his teeth stop falling out. Poor little guy.

Liam is doing pretty good. He is a little social butterfly who is barely home lately. He is in the school choir and is really into his art stuff lately. He is harely resembling a little boy anymore.

The basement is pretty much finished. We just have to paint the doors and trim and we can move things down! Its looking so good. Glen and his friends did an awesome job.

Deck The Halls at Arklan

2008-12-12T11:42:00.003-05:00

The boy's school decided to forgo the regular Christmas Concert this year and held a celebration instead.
The kids got to decorate gingerbread men, do crafts and had free hot chocolate and coffee for parents.
The Choir sang and a few kids played carols on the piano.
Liam is in the choir so I got a couple of pics.

Helyn and her cookie

Liam waiting to sing

The whole Choir

New pics of the kids

2008-12-10T18:32:00.003-05:00

I tried taking photos of the kids today in their Christmas outfits...

Tell me what you think?
Any of them worthy to develop?

We have movement!!

2008-12-10T13:52:00.003-05:00

Helyn had a little one this afternoon... I am expecting more.. but yea... 9 days... UGH.

She had a half dose last night = nothing.
She had a dose at 630 this morning = Nothing.
She had a dose at 12 with lunch and booyah... little poo.

Helyn's appointment.

2008-12-09T15:57:00.002-05:00

First of all thanks Kirsten for the ride to and from the appointment and the coffee.

The nurse checked her and she doesn't appear to have any hemorrhoids and couldn't tell from the angle Helyn let her check her at ( in my arms) if she had any fissures.

I am to keep her on the same diet she is on right now. Lots of good fats, fruits and veggies, high fiber. She recommend Laculose ( thanks Aimee) at 10 ml's twice a day for the next few days to make sure she is cleaned out then I am to decrease it to 10 ml's once a day for 2 weeks and see where she goes from there.

If that doesn't help it, she will refer me to the paediatrician.

I am pretty confident it will help. Pray it does. I want to stop worrying about this. I want her to be normal. The good thing is this stuff is over the counter and it doesn't cost much, and doesn't taste bad.

Busy Busy.

2008-12-09T07:37:00.002-05:00

Today is Helyn's appointment with the Nurse Practitioner. Hoping she can give me answers or a referral to a specialist for Helyn. Her last Bm was on Thursday and I gave her a suppository for that. Its been 5 days since her last one.

This weekend was pretty busy.

Saturday we had breakfast with Santa with the kids in the morning. Saturday afternoon our friend Christine watched the kids while Glen and I went to the Pens/Sens game. We won 3-2. Great Game.

Sunday we got up early and brought all of the garbage out of the basement and dumped it in our portable dumpster from Home Depot from the rennovation, I brought the kids to Church, came back and did some more work on the basement, did groceries, we put up the tree and went to bed. Oh what a busy day.

Yesterday I only had Helyn and Jorian so we played around all morning. We did some colouring, played with toys, I put Jorian down and helped Glen clean up the tools and construction dust while Helyn watched a movie.

So we just have to get the old washer out of the basement and vacuum the gaps in the floor and then I can move things into the room!!!
Oh This is so exciting! I will take pics once the room is empty.

And just in time for the snow we are getting over the next couple of days! LOL.

Here are some pics from the weekend. I will post more later.

Liam and Aidan at the breakfast with Santa

Helyn not participating

Aidan

At the game.

Doesn't Glen look crazy here?

Our optional Christmas Trees

"Mommy put this one up."

Putting up the Angel

New pics of the kids

2008-12-05T17:06:00.001-05:00

I took this one of Helyn today

I took these of the kids from last night after they helped me clean up after brownies.

A joke that was emailed to me today.

2008-12-03T16:51:00.002-05:00

Thanks Lynn... very funny.

Making a baby

There is not one dirty word in it, and it is funny!--

The Smiths were unable to conceive children and decided to use a surrogate father to start their family. On the day the proxy father was to arrive, Mr. Smith kissed his wife goodbye and said, 'Well, I'm off now. The man should be here soon.'

Half an hour later, just by chance, a door-to-door baby photographer happened to ring the doorbell, hoping to make a sale. 'Good morning, Ma'am', he said, 'I've come to...'

'Oh, no need to explain,' Mrs. Smith cut in, embarrassed, 'I've been expecting you.'

'Have you really?' said the photographer. 'Well, that's good. Did you know babies are my specialty?'

'Well that's what my husband and I had hoped. Please come in and have a seat !.

After a moment she asked, blushing, 'Well, where do we start?'

'Leave everything to me. I usually try two in the bathtub, one on the couch, and perhaps a couple on the bed. And sometimes the living room floor is fun. You can really spread out there.'

'Bathtub, living room floor? No wonder it didn't work out for Harry and me!'

'Well, Ma'am, none of us can guarantee a good one every time. But if we try several different positions and I shoot from six or seven angles, I'm sure you'll be pleased with the results.'

'My, that's a lot!', gasped Mrs. Smith.

'Ma'am, in my line of work a man has to take his time. I'd to be In and out in five minutes, but I'm sure you'd be disappointed with that.'

'Don't I know it,' said Mrs. Smith quietly.

The photographer opened his briefcase and pulled out a portfolio of his baby pictures. 'This was done on the top of a bus,' he said.

'Oh, my Goodness!' Mrs. Smith exclaimed, grasping at her throat.

'And these twins turned out exceptionally well - when you consider their mother was so difficult to work with.'

'She was difficult?' asked Mrs. Smith.

'Yes, I'm afraid so. I finally had to take her to the park to get the job done right. People were crowding around four and five deep to get a good look'

'Four and five deep?' said Mrs. Smith, her eyes wide with amazement.

'Yes', the photographer replied. 'And for more than three hours, too. The mother was constantly squealing and yelling - I could hardly concentrate, and when darkness approached I had to rush my shots. Finally, when the squirrels began nibbling on my equipment, I just had to pack it all in.'

Mrs. Smith leaned forward. 'Do you mean they actually chewed on your, uh...equipment?'

'It's true, Ma'am, yes.. Well, if you're ready, I'll set-up my tripod and we can get to work right away.'

'Tripod?'

'Oh yes, Ma'am. I need to use a tripod to rest my Canon on. It's much too big to be held in the hand very long.'
Mrs. Smith fainted

Update on the kids

2008-12-03T13:38:00.002-05:00

Alright, so Helyn's appointment was rebooked for next Tuesday.Not sure of the N.P's reasons for not being able to go to work but I am thankful that the office called me before I left to bring the kids to school as I would have walked an hour in the cold to find out my appointment was cancelled.... then I would have went berserk!!

So it is now next Tuesday at 2:20pm. Lena will pick up the kids for me after school so I don't have to worry about getting back in time.

Liam is giving me issues again. I understand that the last thing he wants to do when he gets home from school is his homework, but it is due on Thursdays and is has to be done. He gave me lip last night about it and had a little fit. We had a talk, and then an understanding but by the time the night was over, his homework was still not finished. He will not have any TV, Video Games, or friend time from here on until it is done. He is pretty excited for Christmas. He is also going to be in the Church Play on the 14th. He wants to be an Angel. Which reminds me, I have to make him a costume!! AHHHH.

Aidan is doing pretty good. He has 4-5 loose teeth right now. I should get a picture of his growing gaps in his smile. He always had this perfect tight little smile and now everything is getting all loose. Its too cute. Yet so gross at the same time! LOL.

Helyn is good. I had to give her a suppository on Sunday as it had been 7 days between her BM's and If she hasn't went by tonight, she will be getting one tomorrow. I gave her a speech about pooing and I thought we had an understanding.... lets see if it works.
She has been helping me in my baking. Its so fun to teach her and she loves to pour, stir and taste our effots.

Glen is going into his busy season at work, so that means he will be home less and Less until after Christmas. It sucks because me and the kids miss him so much. He will be gone from 7 in the morning until around 9 almost every night. He is hopeful that we will get the basement done this weekend and be able to move things down. It is looking so great. I will take pics once its all cleaned up.

New Moon.

2008-12-03T13:34:00.002-05:00

I just finished reading Book 2 in the Twilight Saga called New Moon.

Can I just say that Stephanie Meyer is a great writer!! She is so descriptive and ends her stories in a way that makes you need to read the next one. I am happy I wasn't reading these as she was writing them. I can't wait that long until the next one! I would go insane.

So Crash!!! If you are out there!!! I need the next one, bring it over please!! LOL

Appointment Rescheduled.

2008-12-02T09:56:00.000-05:00

Helyn's appointment has been rebooked for next Tuesday as our NP is not going to be able to make it to town today.

The Interviews

2008-11-28T16:57:00.003-05:00

They went pretty well.
The boys were supposed to go with us, but Aidan didn't want to go. He stayed with Kirsten and Helyn at home.

Aidan's teacher, Mrs. White said that Aidan is progressing well. His reading has improved by leaps and bounds and he is pretty good in every subject.
Her only concern is that he does not like to answer class questions without prompting. He knows the answer but its like he doesn't want to make a spectical of himself. She calls on him and he gives the answer, but he won't put up his hand to answer questions. When she calls for group activities, he won't find a friend, he will stand back and wait until someone calls for him to join or the teacher has to find him a place.
Her concern is that in the next couple of years he will be lost amongst the numbers of the class and not stand out. She would like him to make an effort every now and then to take initiative.
He is characteristically shy and has low self esteem... so how am I going to get him out of his shell?? We constantly praise him, show him lots of love and get him to try new things all the time... but its not Aidan. I see her point... but I don't want him to be lost in the shuffle.

Liam's interview went well. She has no concerns except his day dreaming. He tends to just drift in and out when working on indepenant work. He is going to work on it this term.

Helyn is on 4 days between bm's. I gave her a laxative this morning and another dose tonight. Hoping she will go tomorrow on her own. She is wearing a diaper today and you can tell she has the urge, she just isnt doing it. Make me anxious girl!

Glen and our friend Mark went to the Leaf's Sens game last night. It was a very exciting game as it went into overtime and a shoot out. The boys both enjoyed it.

Tomorrow is Glen's staff party. We are going to a Murder Mystery place to have dinner and a show. It should be fun. We went last year too so at least we know what to expect. I will take pics.

Bad mommy award.

2008-11-27T12:37:00.003-05:00

Today was Aidan's last day of swimming with his class and I forgot to pack his bathing suit!!!
His school called while we were at a friend's house to see if I could run it to the school, but I was not home!!!
We will see what kind of mood he is in when he comes home from school. I hope he can let it go the way I did when he threw out his spoon the other day at school. LOL... he was surprised i wasn't angry and I told him it was an accident... no worries buddy. I guess I am hoping he learned by example.

Sigh.

Glen is going to the Maple Leafs/Sens game tonight with a friend and I have a friend coming over to watch the munchkins while I attend the parent/teacher interviews for the boys at the school.

That is it for now.. will write more later.

Report Card time.

2008-11-26T11:51:00.002-05:00

The boys came home with their report cards yesterday.

Aidan is doing amazing. He has come a long way from the beginning of the school year. We were so worried about him and he is improving all the time. He does have areas he still needs improvement but one step at a time. We have his reading going strong now... we will keep that up and work on the other areas.

This is what was written by his teacher in the summery.

Aidan has made a good adjustment to the routines of grade one. he listens to instructions and usually completes tasks with a good effort. the next step will be to complete assignments in the time allotted and to ask for assistance when he doesn't understand. Aidan has established good relationships with his peers and generally works cooperatively with all members of the class. During second term Aidan will be encouraged to voluntarily participate in group discussions rather than just when called upon.

Liam is doing well too. He has went down in a few areas this year, but grade 3 is a pretty challenging grade with lots of tests and homework. Its a big adjustment for him I think.

This is what was written in his summery.

Liam is a polite and cooperative student who generally follows the rules and routines established. He uses his agenda daily and completes assigned weekly homework on time. Liam's work is always neatly done and shows attention to detail. In term 2, Liam will be encouraged to begin work promptly and stay focused on the task at hand so that he can complete assigned work in the time given.

I meet with both of their teachers tomorrow so we will be able to come up with a plan to get them to succeed this year.

The crisis is over..... for now.

2008-11-25T07:42:00.003-05:00

Helyn did her business last night around 10. Poor baby. I gave her a diaper and she did what she needed to do after the suppository and tylonol.

Poor thing.

But she had one and I have to try and keep her regular again.

That was a waste

2008-11-24T19:38:00.001-05:00

The Dr sent us home with suppositories and told us to put her on a anti bung you up diet ( which she is already on!!).

That is all I can bring myself to talk about right now.. just not happy.

Glen has her at the hospital.

2008-11-24T14:09:00.002-05:00

I checked her belly when she was sleeping and you could feel the hard poo in there.
I asked Glen to bring her to the ER. She needs to get some relief.
My poor baby.

9 days!!

2008-11-24T13:49:00.002-05:00

And nothing. She still hasn't pooed.
You can tell she has to and her belly is so hard. I put her in the bath after lunch to relax her, I even put a diaper on her in case she felt more comfortable with it on in case of an accident.
She was up for 3 hours last night... not complaining, just up. She is like me and won't let on if its bothering her.
I gave her stool softener this morning and she is drinking non stop with lots of pee breaks, but no poo yet.

She is sleeping on the couch right now... I think we will be bringing her to the hospital tonight if she hasn't went. This is too long.

Elf Yourself

2008-11-22T10:56:00.001-05:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Its the most wonderful time... of the week!!

2008-11-21T15:50:00.002-05:00

Yes my friends.

ITS FRIDAY!

Oh I am so exhausted from this week. It just seemed like it would never end. Not that its is any different from any other week but man... AHHHHH. I have been doing some big clean ups in the basement and in the bedrooms on top of trying to keep up with laundry ( impossible!!!)

Tomorrow I am watching our friend's little girls for them for a day out. We gave them our hockey tickets for tomorrow afternoon because we didn't realize it was an afternoon game and Glen didn't ask for the time off well in advance. They are good friends so that gives them some time together and out.

Tonight me and Crash are heading out shopping. We are going to do our grocery shopping on Friday nights together so the guys and the kids don't have to go. It was her suggestion and I am looking forward to getting out for the night. I feel caged up lately and need an out.

Next weekend is Glen's staff party at a Murder Mystery Theater place that we went to last year. Crash and Mark are keeping our kids over night so we can have a night off too. Will be much needed after next Friday's P.D. day. I have to start making plans for what to do with the kids on that day... there will be 8 here. Maybe more... who knows.

The boys are getting their report cards next week. I am interested to know how well they did. On Thursday we have their parent/teacher interviews so I can get some answers. Hee Hee.

Its been 6 days since Helyn's last poo. She is starting to have problems with her bladder now seeing as she is so full of it. We have an appointment on Tuesday the 2nd at 10 am. The flax seed oil and metamucil aren't working as well now I suppose. Sigh... someday.

Thursday... not too bad.

2008-11-20T13:12:00.002-05:00

Its snowing outside, not a lot, just little flurries. Nice and peaceful.
The kids are resting and I am having a coffee.. just killing time.
I have been cleaning crazily all week and I just need a moment to collect myself and take a day off.

I ordered some clothes off of Gymboree a couple weeks ago and they came in yesterday. Their jammies, they won't get until Christmas Eve, but the boys have new shirts to wear for their Christmas Concert for school and Helyn has a beautiful dress for pictures and just looking adorable. It looks so pretty on her. I am going to wait a little longer to share her in it until I take some photos of the kids.
She loves it. Last night she had it on and she was twirling saying "its my Christmas Dress?? Isn't it pretty?" I got her a matching headband with it and some white pom pom pony tail holders ( depending on her mood), and some tights.

Its going to be a fun Christmas for her I think. Last year she kind of got the jist of it, and this year she keeps saying "remember Christmas??" and she goes though the tree, the music, the decorations, cookies and etc.

its fun.

Ok.. time to tidy up after lunch... we had a few friends over this morning so the house is in a bit of disarray... but nothing too hard to tidy, yet it has to be done.

Helyn is on day 5 post poo... hasn't went yet today.. hoping sometime today. Time for her metamucil now.. and I am going to call and reshedule her appointment in the morning.

Oh wow.. what a good book.

2008-11-19T13:55:00.003-05:00

I just finished reading Twilight this afternoon.
It was a really really good read.
Definately leaves you wanting more.
There are 4 books in the saga so far.

There is Twilight, then New Moon, Eclipse and Breaking Dawn.

If you like Vampire books, Definately look it up.

http://www.stepheniemeyer.com/twilightseries.html

Some funnies from Aidan and Helyn

2008-11-19T10:30:00.001-05:00

We went out for dinner on Sunday as a family.
The kids got gummy worms and the adults got mints with the check.
Aidan asked Glen why we got mints and they didn't.
Glen says, well our breath smells.

Aidan walks up to the server and just blurts out...

WELL MY BREATH SMELLS TOO.

LOL

Then the other day, we are walking the kids to school with our friend Lena.

Helyn is walking really slow and we call her slow poke all the time... Lena says come on slow poke.

Helyn says, I'm no slow poke Lena, I Helyn.

Have to reschedule.

2008-11-18T11:41:00.003-05:00

I got a confirmation call for our appointment with the nurse tomorrow and we realized that the appointment is out of town!!

So we have to reschedule it for another time.

I have been keeping up with our push of fluids, metamucil and flax seed oil and she doesn't seem as bunged up or anxious about pooing. Hoping this might help her relax more. We are on day 3 since her last one, hoping she will go today or tomorrow. I will be happy if she goes every 3-4 days, i would even be happy with 5 days as long as it doesn't hurt.

Yea for Poo!

2008-11-16T13:42:00.003-05:00

I guess I have already had this subject title as it automatically came up. LOL

Helyn went this morning in her night time diaper.

For the first time in a long time, it wasn't rock hard and piecey, it was a regular one. I was so happy... sad.. that I am so happy about bowel movements.

I have been giving her a dose of flax seed oil every morning and she gets Metamucil with lunch and dinner with a whole lot of water and juice. I took her off of dairy for now, and will start her on soy tomorrow. We see the nurse on Wednesday, so maybe she can give me more ideas or a referral to make sure nothing is medically wrong to make this happen.

I brought the kids to church this morning by myself. The kids went to the Sunday school and nursery classes during the main part of the mass. Aidan's teacher came upstairs about 15 minutes later and told me he wasn't feeling well. I think he was just really shy seeing as it was a new place and he didn't know many kids there. Helyn and Liam had a blast though. Liam wants to take part in the Christmas Pageant, its too late for him to take a main part but he ( and the other 2) are invited to be Sheppard's or Angels. I think I might get Helyn in, but Aidan is not interested at the moment.

So there we go, that is our weekend... we are going to go out for dinner tonight and go grocery shopping afterwards. Fun Fun.

Talk later....

Next Wednesday

2008-11-14T07:56:00.003-05:00

Helyn sees our Nurse practioner at 1040.
I hope she can help guide us through this.
You could tell yesterday after her bath she had to go, she looked like a dog chasing her tail the way she was running around trying not to go.
And again this morning.
I just left the diaper on her in hopes she would go.
It has to be so painful.

Thanks for all the words of advice and encouragement. I just wish this would all go away and she would be fine.

Happy Birthday Nana.

2008-11-12T20:36:00.002-05:00

Hope you had a wonderful Birthday. The kids loved spending time with you this weekend.

Lots of Love.

Yea for Poo!

2008-11-12T20:25:00.003-05:00

She went tonight.
Oh it was about time.
Glen finally got to see first hand how bad it is when she hasn't went in over a week. The poor baby. Glen was giving her a bath after dinner and she had to go, She must have hemorrhoids as there was blood when he wiped.

I went and got some Metamucil tonight to add to her orange juice in hopes to bulk her up some more. She gets so much fiber per meal, but what is a little more I suppose. I also picked up some Flax seed oil as suggested by a friend.

Let's see if it works. If she goes every 3-4 days, I will be happy as she won't be so bunged up at the end of 9 days like she was today. I feel its all a psychological thing, but its turning out to be a physical thing. I am still going to make an appointment with her NP and see about getting an appointment with a specialist. We are both due for a check up so we will go in together.

Yea.. my baby has relief!

Aidan and I did some reading together tonight. He is reading at a benchmark 14 now!!! He was at a level 6 at the beginning of September so he is doing well. I am really proud of him. He gets really good if not perfect marks in spelling and has a good handle on his school work.

Liam is starting to show some difficulties with his work and her temperament. I swear its pre puberty stuff. He is all flustered and has a hard time concentrating in class and at home. The social Liam is starting to come out and in his mind its more important than the academic Liam. Tonight he was late coming home from a friend's house again. I had to call for him to come home and I warned him ahead of time that this was not acceptable. He had to spend the remainder of the evening in his room as punishment.

Glen isn't feeling well. He was home all day today and just not well. I think the extra rest and hydration helped a lot. Hopefully he will feel better tomorrow.

And boring ole me, I am catching up on laundry, writing my blog and trying to tidy up before tomorrow. Its going to be a cold and rainy day tomorrow in Carleton Place. Not looking forward to it that is fer sure. I have 4 kids tomorrow so I am going to have to get creative with ideas to keep them busy. I took out the lego, the trains and we made some new play dough today. Let's see if that keeps them happy. Pray for me.

Poop watch

2008-11-12T14:19:00.002-05:00

It has been 9 days today.
She has to go, she has been acting weird all day and she has to go.
She has barely eaten anything today, but has had lots of water and juice to drink.

My nurse hasn't called back yet. I need to make an appointment for her.

We have been having 5-10 minute potty breaks all day. I read that if you can get them to sit for 10 minutes after a meal, the body naturally wants to eliminate after eating. It was hard, but I did get her to sit for 8 minutes after lunch and 5 minutes after our shower/bath.

I also gave her a stool softener today and stopped giving her the mineral oil as that doesn't seem to be helping and its been 5 days on the oil.

This isn't healthy and its becoming a physical problem now. I turned off the TV and put up her favorite toys so she has to sit on the toilet before we get Emily.

Sigh... that is my day... full of poop issues.

Updates.

2008-11-11T13:56:00.002-05:00

Its been a busy few days.
Nana and Papa had the kids this weekend. They came to get them around 9 in the morning and the kids were so excited. Its great that Helyn doesn't get upset about leaving us like Liam did. I think it helps to have her older brothers. They had a little birthday party for Nana on Saturday night with cake and presents.

Glen and I went to visit our friends Chris and Sandra that night. Glen helped Chris set up their home theatre and we had some drinks. It was nice to be out, but as per usualy, I over did it. LOL. I think I am starting to feel normal again today.

Helyn is still having constipation issues. We are now 8 days since her last movement. You can see her running around pinching herself to stop the poo from coming out at about 2 or 3 days after her last one. I gave her mineral oil every day last week to keep them softer or easier to come out and nothing. I gave her a laxative starting yesterday and some more today. You can tell that she has to go but she is trying really hard not to. I can't seem to get it through her head that she needs to go.

Liam is starting to go through the pre puberty tantrums now. He gets so worked up and breaks down so easily now. He wants his freedom to do as he chooses, but he is only 8 years old. I know things were different for us as kids and we did more than he does at his age, but yea... He is still a loving wonderful little man. We seem to fight almost every night for him to do his homework, his mind isn't there for remembering things, and he only wants to spend time with his friends.

Aidan has been doing well with his reading and school. He seems to understand that he needs to get his stuff done so he can spend more time with his friends or get rewarded with some computer time. He is taking swimming lessons with his class for the next 3 weeks. It would be nice if he could pass his current level. He is doing really well with Skating and is enjoying it.

The basement is almost complete! Glen layed down the flooring yesterday, and the painting is done. He has to do the stairs now, then the trim, the doors and then we should be ready to go!.
It looks so good. He and his friends have been doing such a great job. I am very thankful to everyone who has helped. Thanks sweetie.

I will post pics when its all done.

So that is it for now, Helyn and I are going to finish watching our movie and then go get the kids at school. ttfn.

Thursday

2008-11-06T07:58:00.002-05:00

Helyn has been under the weather the last couple of days, I imagine she has what I had. I gave her a decongestant last night as she was hacking a lot and her sweet little voice sounded so horse and this is how I found her.

Then Aidan wanted a photo shoot too. So here are some cute pics of him.

Had to share

2008-11-05T15:56:00.003-05:00

I have the costumes still out for a while.

Helyn decided today to wear this one.

It has seen better days.

Like these.

Wednesday morning rambling.

2008-11-05T05:58:00.002-05:00

Well Glen and Mark got a whole lot done on the weekend.
The basement is all painted, Glen was screwing down the floor last night until I had to go out. Its coming along so nicely.

I went out last night with Christine for a bit for some shopping and stress relief, but I think that will be it until the basement is done. Glen is really focused and wants to get it done. There is some light at the end of the tunnel.

This cold is kicking my butt!! It keeps changing from moment to moment. The last 5 days, my day would start out with the worst headache ever. I have been taking Tylonol to keep the pain low and tried to stay away from cold meds so everything could come out. I did take them a couple days but mostly at night so I could sleep. This morning, I feel like coughing more and my nose is stuffed up. I hope this means I am getting better. I also woke up with more energy which was nice as I haven't felt like there was enough sleep in the world which would satisfy me.

Helyn is getting the cold now too. She is all congested and miserable. The other night she didn't go to sleep until 11 and she was up at 5. I don't have to tell you how chipper she was. * rolleyes here*.

Aidan and Liam are better this week. I swear I was going to lose it on them last week. Liam was forgetting his homework at school, he didn't tell us about his tests, he was late returning home from places. Aidan was whining, miserable and just not focused. Now looking back, I am certain that Halloween played big in our problems last week. Things are better now.

Anyhoo... hope everything is well with everyone. There seems to be a light at the end of the tunnel. The weather is also supposed to be gorgeous all week so there will be some spent outside. Woo Hoo. Sunshine does so good for my attitude.