Humor

Some of my favorite kid comedic moments have happened in church. I think part of the reason they are so funny is that church is often supposed to be a solemn and serious place, and not necessarily jovial. My kids have had some funny moments though! I remember one time when HT was two, or had just turned three. We attended a very large church in a neighboring community. My husband always wanted to sit in the very first pew so that it would encourage the kids to pay attention. HT has never had a terribly long attention span, and as toddlers do, he was messing around with other things during Mass. In this particular instance he had leaned over the front of the pew, and you can imagine the reaction of us all when suddenly he is sitting there holding a piece of the decorative molding that he had managed to remove. I heard several giggles and chuckles coming from the pew behind us, and I'm not sure which they thought was funnier, the surprised expression on HT's face or the looks of horror on the faces of my husband and I. Another funny moment occurred at the same church when JC was four. We had at that time an absolutely wonderful priest, who has since passed away. This man was a very large man, and honestly, I remember his homilies, some of the shortest ever, better than I remember things that happened yesterday. I think that speaks to how wonderful he was as a priest that he could get his point across so concisely. Anyway, he had a weekend off, and a visiting priest was coming down the aisle. JC announced, "That's not our God. That's a different God!" Again, we could hear chuckles all around us. The most memorable though, involved HT who had just that week turned four. By this time we had switched to a very small church that was located in our very small town. It was the end of the year, and Father was giving us a blessing for the New Year that included Holy Water. As we were sprinkled, HT announced (rather loudly), "Hey! He got me wet!" This time, because it was otherwise silent, and again a rather small church, we could hear laughter and chuckles coming from across the entire sanctuary.

I don't have a JR church story, but I do remember when he was six and he very much wanted to earn some extra money. We told him that he could be responsible for feeding the cats every day and earn an allowance that way. He was very excited about this, and ran over to the food cupboard. He opened it, looked in, and said, "Hm, I wonder what they like to eat." My husband and I got quite a chuckle about this, the fact that he thought they ate people food. JR doesn't remember this, but last year for school when he had to write a humorous story about something from his childhood, this was his choice.

I am so unbelievably grateful for these beautiful and amazing children, and for everything (especially the humor) that they bring to our lives!

A vanilla caramel latte...

..., a good night sleep, and a day off can make things seem better. And of course it's another beautifully gorgeous day! I don't feel as though the weight of the world is on my shoulders today, and that's a much better feeling than yesterday. It was also very nice that JR jumped out of bed feeling perfectly fine this morning. The doctor told us last week that the tests indicated he had a virus, and I suspect it's just continually following the same pattern until it can really get out of his system. I'm very grateful to be off work today, and since it's conferences I suspected I would be. Teachers don't want to miss these days! I'm scheduled again in pre-k tomorrow, but I always look forward to those days. My husband also has conferences again this evening and I'll have an extra little one here to help out, but I know that the month of March should be a little tiny bit less chaotic. Not a lot, but a little bit. I'm very much looking forward to that, and in the meantime, I'm very much enjoying my vanilla caramel latte!!!!

Feeling like I've been punched

I feel like today has just kind of been one emotional blow after another. First, I can't go into details, but a friend of the family has been experiencing some personal issues that, well I just can't say, but please understand it's just awful and heart wrenching. In addition, it's the two year anniversary of the passing of our friend's six month old. Even now, two years later, it still brings a kick-in-the-gut-take-your-breath-away-sick kind of feeling. My thoughts and prayers have been with them all day. There has been a school shooting in Charon, OH. This is absolutely nowhere near us, but as someone who's entire family pretty much spends their entire days in school, it's another sickening feeling. On a much lesser emotional level, the school hasn't been able to get my paycheck correct (AGAIN) and JC is having a miserable time in math and I am struggling in how to help her. I've gone through all my sure fire visuals and help and it still doesn't seem to be getting through. JR is running a fever (AGAIN) and I'm getting concerned. HT is having trouble behaving in school, and I'm getting frustrated that I've emailed teachers and the principal regarding some policies involving JR and JC and not only can I not get an answer, I can't even seem to get an answer about who to contact to get the answer. It's just a very frustrating feeling.

On the upside though, today was an absolutely gorgeous day outside. It was bright and sunny, and I think it got up to the mid 50's. Absolutely pristine for a February day in Ohio. I've kind of resigned myself to the fact that this winter wasn't really much of a winter, and as much as I love a good winter snow storm there just isn't going to be one. In that case, I hope that we have some beautiful spring days coming around before too long. In the meantime, I'm able to be at home, warm and safe, with the people I love the most.

Weekly wrap-up

It's been another long week around here, but no more so than usual, I suppose. I was off Wednesday and Thursday, although Thursday was the beginning of winter conferences for both our school district and my husband's. I had two meetings Thursday afternoon, then babysat a teacher friend's child for the rest of the evening. I had another meeting Friday morning, worked in 2nd grade that day, and then went to our agency and taught again Friday evening. Saturday was a scout meeting for JR, then HT attended a birthday party at the roller rink. He also had his final basketball game and team party following. My husband took JC to the UD game and enjoyed watching their victory. Today JR had his baseball clinic and this evening he is at youth group. I took JC and HT to my hometown to deliver girl scout cookies to various family members. In addition to all the "going and going", JR, HT, and I have all developed head colds. Mine has stayed pretty much in my head, but JR and HT seem to have had some of it settle in the chest. I'm sure listening to us in church this morning there weren't many who wished to share the sign of peace with us. The good news is that next weekend's schedule is looking marginally easier...and I'm hoping it stays that way! Down time is always good!

Negative

The mono test came back completely negative. I'll be honest, for a minute my heart absolutely sank. I was terrified that meant it was something more serious. However, the kind lady was quick to assure me that the doctor was confidant it was only a virus of some kind. She explained that the blood work, and anything that might be related to a concern of leukemia or a form of cancer was normal. I was so grateful she explained that to me! He has come down with a cold now, but for the most part he does seem to be feeling better.

My husband and I were discussing last night that we can really see a change in him lately. He has started developing a sense of humor and is becoming more adept at using sarcasm and things like that. He's pretty funny at times. I absolutely love watching these kids become who they are every day!

Testing for mono

Bright and early at 8AM this morning we were at the doctor's office. JR is being tested for mono. I would be very surprised if he doesn't have it. After having a touch of a stomach bug last week, he just hasn't been able to shake being absolutely exhausted. He's also been talking about some side pain, and the doctor confirmed that his spleen does seem to be enlarged. I was very glad to be able to take a note to school excusing him from gym class. They are going to run a complete blood panel, and I'll be honest, last night I was feeling a little neurotic about the entire thing. What if it was something really serious? I just can't keep myself from going there, even when there is absolutely no reason to do so. However, the doctor gave absolutely no indication that there was anything major to worry about, so that did make me feel a little better. I'll be glad though, when the phone call comes (we are to expect it tomorrow morning) with the test results!

Pitchers and catchers

Pitchers and catchers have reported for spring training. I'm always so happy about this. First of all I love baseball, secondly, it gives me hope that the six week void of good sporting options between the Super Bowl and NCAA basketball tournament will go quickly, and lastly, it makes you start to think that the end of winter is in sight. Although that isn't really much of a factor this year, because we have yet to really feel like winter ever really started. This is by far, the mildest winter I can ever remember. Not only has there been virtually no snow, but the temps have been very moderate for this part of the country. Anyway, pitchers and catchers reporting are only the beginning of what we Reds fans hope will be a very exciting baseball season. We've* made some interesting trades and roster moves, and the Reds seem poised to go far this year. I certainly hope so!

*Upon re-reading this, I realized I have referred to the team in the inclusive possessive form. I do this pretty much all the time. Am I the only person who does this? I know several people who make fun of me for it, but as much time and energy as I devote to the teams I love (and in the case of the Reds have loved for about 35 years) I do feel as though they are mine!

Keeping it in perspective

JR is home sick again today. He ran a fever of about 99.2 last evening, but didn't get sick since early yesterday afternoon. As a mom, it's my job to worry, and since he seemingly had something similar just a few days ago, the worrying has kicked in. And of course, it's not convenient, but parenting often is inconvenient (especially if you are parenting correctly). I keep it all in perspective though. I've written before about my friend's nephew. Last fall he was able to go into remission, but I've just learned yesterday that the cancer has returned. My heart just breaks for their family and I've lifted up many prayers for them in the last 24 hours. So while life is crazy here with infections and stomach bugs, I'll take that every day over anything more serious.

It just keeps coming

It seems as though our healthy is infested with germs. Various kinds, but I can't seem to keep a healthy house! It all began back on Jan. 29th, when my husband and I both had cases of the stomach flu (or the beginning of Fifth Disease). We were both down all day Monday, and Tuesday we were both home as well. That Wednesday was when I noticed the lymph nodes, and Thursday the facial rash began, followed by the body rash the next day. I was tired and worn out over the weekend, then that Tuesday the joint aches from Fifth Disease began. Wednesday HT was home sick with a very bad cold and cough, and he vomited that evening so he was home again Thursday (and my wonderful husband was home that day). We were good Friday, and then Saturday evening JR began running a fever of 101.8. He ran a fever through early afternoon Sunday, and had a sore throat (but not an awful one, we assumed sinus drainage) through Monday afternoon. Tuesday evening HT's infection begins which we dealt with last evening. And then today happened. I was working in fifth grade, but it was an afternoon only assignment. JR had mentioned to me this morning that his stomach hurt, but he didn't feel like he was going to vomit. When I got to school, the secretary mentioned to me that JR had come to her about 15 minutes ago saying that he vomited, but felt better and wanted to go back to class. I was able to check on him about an hour later, and this poor child looked as though he had been run over by a truck. I informed him that he was going home right then. It's a good thing too, because apparently he vomited again when he got home. Right now I'm thinking we need to quarantine ourselves!

Not the best day ever

Yesterday was one of our more challenging days that we've had recently. Our morning didn't get off to the best of starts. JC was moving somewhat slowly, and I was pretty irritated with her by the time we left for school. I was in Kindergarten yesterday, and I had forgotten how absolutely physically exhausting it can be. The class I was in yesterday was one of the smaller ones, but also one of the rowdier ones. I was feeling pretty drained by the time I got home, but that was only the beginning of our adventure for the day. HT had pointed out to me on Tuesday evening that his big toe was swollen. Uhm, yeah, it was swollen, red & white, and full of puss. YUCK! I soaked it Tuesday evening and put on some antibacterial cream, and was getting ready to soak it again when he pointed out that he now had a finger that matched his toe. The toe caused him a great deal of pain whenever it was touched, and putting it in water to soak it caused him to scream. Not just any screams, but blood-curdling, my-mom-is-torturing-me screams. I called my husband and began to cry. I just couldn't keep doing this to him, and I was convinced he needed medical attention. Because of our doctor's lack of office hours (I think retirement is near) and my work schedule, we decided to head over to Children's Urgent Care. This is an amazing facility for children and they keep the kids as entertained as they possibly can be in such a not fun place! Before we could head out the door however, I notice that JR had a bump/scratch on the side of his head. I asked him if something happened at school, and to make a long story short, a school bully in his gym class basically got mad and tried to beat him up. I am NOT using the word bully lightly and just throwing it around. I have known this child for years, and he has had more than one incident involving fighting at school that has led to in school suspension. My son defended himself, but the gym teacher isn't really into supervising his class, and he only saw the end result and gave both boys warnings. Now I understand warning my son, but the other child should be under a zero tolerance policy...he should not be allowed to touch another student. Period. I took pictures of JR as proof, because in addition to the scratch/bump on the side of his face, he also had a bruise on his nose and a partial black eye. I immediately called the school principal and left a message, and I'll be honest, I'm not particularly pleased that he hasn't returned my call yet. I have to go into work in three hours and I sincerely hope that the man returns my call BEFORE I get there. Anyway, I left JR at home because he was going to the UD game with my husband, and the rest of us headed off to Urgent Care. As luck would have it, it was a busy night, and there were a couple of very serious emergencies that were rather involved. The staff kept apologizing to us for having to wait so long, but I do understand. I would much, much rather be the parent who is sitting there waiting for hours (it was a 2-1/2 hour wait overall) then to be the parent of the child for whom they needed to call an ambulance. We finally left armed with a Rx for antibiotics, and by the time we picked that up and ran through the McDonald's drive through, it was 8:00 before we got home. We were all pretty worn out by then, and I felt BEYOND drained. The kids finally got to bed about 8:30, and I got to work on the laundry I had hoped to get finished a few hours earlier. While it was an exhausting day, I still knew when I went to bed last night that I was very blessed. My kids were relatively safe and healthy, and we were all sleeping under our own roof last night.

Happy Valentine's Day

Hope everyone is having a wonderful day full of love. We gave the kids each a card and a package of Reese's Cups for their gifts. My wonderful husband gave me a box of Esther Price chocolates (my favorite kind) and I gave him nothing. Okay, I gave him a card. In honesty though, he's supposed to go pick out his own iPod touch so I still think he comes out okay in the deal. Dinner was tuna casserole before JC went to scouts, and my husband took HT to their basketball practice. I'll be honest though, even though we aren't all home together, having such an incredibly full and blessed life is the best Valentine's gift ever!

Random Monday

Some random thoughts for a Monday...

1) I'm beginning to wonder if I have a concussion. I smacked my head very, very hard this morning and I just can't seem to make the pain go away. I know that if I do, it's very mild, but I am wondering how long this headache is going to last. I'm also wondering if it's safe to take a nap, but I'm not sure that I'm going to have much of a choice based on my eyelids.

2) JR went to school today, which is only noteworthy because Saturday night he was running a fever of 101.8. Yesterday the highest it got was 99.9 around Noon, and after that he was normal the rest of the day. I could tell that he felt much better this morning.

3) I ran some errands this morning, and was really annoyed when I got to the grocery and realized that I had left my list and coupons at home. UGH! It was also very ironic because when I left about 10:25 to begin my errands, I thought to myself that if the school was going to call for an afternoon sub job, they would've called by now. Of course, when I got home I saw that the school had indeed called, and according to the caller ID it was at 10:29. UGH again!

4) Tonight is our ONLY evening of the night where we have nothing at all on our calendar. Normally my wonderful husband would have a grad class, but that was canceled. My plan is to make sure that we all actually get to sit down at the same time for a nice dinner.

5) There pretty much seems to be no point in mentioning this, but there is snow in our forecast tonight. I'm fairly certain that the forecasted two inches isn't going to get us a snow day, but sleeping in a little bit tomorrow for an hour or two delay sure would be wonderful! That doesn't seem to be in the cards for this winter though.

Hope everyone has a great week!

The Bad News Bears play basketball

I have just returned from HT's basketball game. I'll be honest, it is actually a painful experience. They might be the worst group of second graders I've ever seen put together as a team, God love them! I feel responsible because I'm the one who drafted the team, and of course my husband feels responsible because he coaches them. Part of the problem, which obviously no amount of coaching is going to change, is the fact that we have the shortest kids in the league all on one team. Only three games left, which right now feels like an eternity. Ugh!

Soon it's gonna snow

That's right, we are actually going to be getting some snow around here...later this evening and into the overnight. We might even get up to THREE WHOLE INCHES. My husband has started calling this "the Winter that wasn't". The weather has been unbelievable. Not only have we had no accumulating snow, we haven't had any kind of snow day at school...not even so much as an hour delay! It's rather disappointing. After all, beautiful snow is one of the "perks" of living in this part of the country. And one of the (few, these days) benefits of being a teacher is the fact that sometimes you get to stay home on a snow day. Our school district has averaged seven snow days a year since our schooling experiences began. This year is obviously going to be bringing down the average!

Painful

WARNING!!!! I AM ABOUT TO COMPLAIN!

Okay, you are still reading, so consider yourself warned! I am in pain. I had a somewhat rough night last night with pain in the shoulders and wrists, specifically, but I also have some pain in my knees and ankles. Notice these are all joints in the body. When researching Fifth Disease, I had remembered reading that joint pain could occur. I got online again this morning and found that it occurs mostly in adult women and will probably last between 1 and 3 weeks. The good news is that rarely does permanent joint damage occur. That is good news. But I've got to tell you, it is very painful. I could not believe how difficult it was just to pick up my coffee mug this morning. I've been taking some ibuprofin, but will have to be careful about what I take because I am allergic to the pain relievers that fall into the nsaid category. I have a brand new appreciation for my friends and relatives who suffer from arthritis. At least I know that my pain should go away within a month!

Our week

Another week has come and gone, and it's brought us into February. I know I keep saying this, but I just can't believe how quickly time is FLYING by! We had lots going on this week (as usual). It was made more challenging by the fact that I haven't felt particularly well all week, and even my wonderful husband stayed home Monday and Tuesday from a violent stomach bug. Those were the same days I started feeling pretty lousy with what appeared to be a milder version of the same bug. Fortunately, the kids are pretty much old enough to take care of most things themselves, and Monday especially, they were very cute at helping to take care of us as well. As it turns out though, I probably have Fifth Disease. This has been running rampant through our schools, and JR had it the week before. Symptoms are fairly minor with flu like symptoms happening about a week before a lacy rash appears on one's body (mine appeared Thursday night into Friday morning), and is also noticeable on the forehead and cheeks. I had swollen lymph nodes behind my ears that I started noticing on Wednesday, and I pretty much freaked out. I knew I hadn't felt well last week, but I've never had lymph nodes swell there before. Because of my friend with leukemia when I was young, I am pretty neurotic about swollen lymph nodes, especially in the neck area. So when the rash broke out and I realized I probably have Fifth Disease, it was actually something of a comfort...at least I knew that I had a virus and that would be a good explanation for the swollen lymph nodes. I plan to keep close tabs on them though, and am already thinking I'm going to the doctor this week just to be CERTAIN I have nothing more to worry about.

In the meantime, our busy lives carried on. JR began baseball camp last Sunday afternoon. This year he's only doing the hitting portion. Neither the timing nor the finances made it feasible to do catching again this year. This camp is run by different people than the one he went to last year, and they have a different hitting philosophy that JR is struggling with. My wonderful husband reminded him that it's always good to try different things and to be able to determine what will work best for him. My husband didn't go to his grad class Monday evening because of being ill, but he did still drag himself to HT's basketball practice Tuesday evening, while I took the older two to karate. Wednesday I was back in the classroom as well as my husband, and that evening he took HT to a UD game. Thursday brought more work and karate again, as well as a scout meeting for HT and a booster meeting for myself. Friday I worked a half day, and I was pretty worn out by the end of that. HT spent the night at his BFF's house (those were HIS words!) and my husband and I had dinner with good friends we hadn't seen lately. It was wonderful to catch up! Yesterday HT had a basketball game in the morning (it wasn't a pretty game for our team) and then we attempted to run some errands. It was a pretty icky and miserable day though, and we were all happy to be home in the middle of the afternoon and in for the day. Last evening was very relaxing and we are looking forward to another crazy week!