Good-byes

Today one of my best friends is heading to see one of her loved ones for probably the last time.

My heart is heavy for her and her family,

because I know it's hard knowing that this could be the last good-bye.

This brings back sooo many memories to be thankful for of those I've lost.....

I am so thankful that I got to say my Good-Byes

and I Love You's to

My Clifford!

(Although he was upset with me for not going on my Senior trip)

I am so thankful I was one of the last people to speak to my Aunt Bea!

I remember all to well her last words,

"I love you Jenny Boo! Go to the game and enjoy yourself,

I'm tired and going to take a nap.

I'll be home tomorrow and you can tell me all about it all."

(little did we know she wouldn't wake from this nap)

And last but not least,

I am so thankful that I got to spend my Uncle Kenneth's

last week sitting with him and discussing fears, hopes, and dreams!

Although he had suffered a lot,

my last visions were of him sleeping soundly

holding my Aunt Vickie's hand.

Thankfully, my last words were those of love and hopefully comfort.

I know that they are all 3 looking down and sending their love daily.

I wish that My Clifford and Aunt Becky would have gotten

to meet David, Jay, and Anna.

I know they would have spoiled the kids rotten.

And Clifford would have told Dave some of his wonderful stories

And I'm sure Anna would love Uncle Kenneth just as much as Jay did!

(cowboy hat and all)

It's better to go and say our Good-Bye's and I love you's

to those we know are fading fast, than to have regrets

and wonder if they knew we loved them.

I love you, My Clifford, My Aunt Becky Bea, and My Uncle Kenneth!!!!

You may be gone from here,

but you'll always be in my heart!!!!

than not and having regrets!

Been gone a really long time.....

Ok I basically had decided to end my blogging. Mainly because when I was still working I had a feeling that it was being read by certain people there to use against me some how. But I have decided that I need to get back on here for multiple reasons.

So here's a quick update.... I quit work at the end of May to become a Stay-At-Home Mom. It has been the best decision ever! I am so thankful that Dave has a job that provides for our family where this is possible. Yes, we have had to make a few sacrifices but they have each been well worth it!

Since then we have celebrated Birthdays, vacations, weekend getaways, sickness, firsts, letdowns, Holidays, play-dates, etc.

So I am now back and not afraid of any one's misuse of my family blog!!!!

10 yrs ago today......

I married the best friend I could ever have!

Happy Anniversary Dave! I love you more today than ever!

Me + Pollen = No Voice = Laughter

Don't you just love coming out to your car to see a nice yellow layer of pollen everywhere? Well, not me! Pollen means allergies. Pollen is itchy eyes. Pollen is runny nose. Pollen is scratchy throat. And Pollen loves to play with my vocal cords.

The past few days I have fought to keep my voice. I'll be fine one minute... then cough... and it's gone. Then wait 10-20 mins... cough again... and it's back. Today, I have been the point of laughter for my co-worker, Brittni. She has laughed at me more than once. I was perfectly fine until my cup of joe. After a few mins, I coughed and low and behold my voice went. We both got a good laugh when I was trying to catch someone's attention. I called his name and nothing came out. And when I say nothing... NOTHING! All I could do was snap, clap and bang on my desk to get his attention. And instead of helping get his attention, what does Ms. B do... she laughs and laughs and laughs. Finally she does get his attention. But we were all 3 laughing by the time it was over. But thankfully, with the help of water and mentho-lyptus cough drops, it's slowly coming back!

Now if it will just rain! Lots of rain! Take the pollen away please!!!

ADHD... Sorry long post!

Jay has a severe ADHD. As I write this, I know that there will be some people that will read this and question why I am being so open about this. But this has been our struggle for our family. I know that there are other families who will have gone through the same issues. We also speak openly about ADHD because we do not want Jay to feel as though he is an outcast or different. And I hope that if there's someone reading this that is questioning getting their child tested for ADHD, our story will give them comfort to know they are not alone.

As many of you know, Jay had a horrible experience in Kindergarten and 1st grade. We started 2nd grade knowing Jay was behind and would need a lot of work to get to his grade level. Dave and I discussed between ourselves that there was a possibility Jay had ADHD and his horrible experience the past 2 years had just magnified it. But after meeting with his teacher, Ms. Avery, and discovering Jay's classroom behavior/traits/functions we were almost certain this was the problem. Jay at the time was only reading 32 words per minute (grade average was 67) and not completing any assignments.

We went to our family dr (Dr. Katona) and got a referral to see Dr. Niinikoski at Apex Psychological Services. After giving her Jay's history and completing over 500 questions, she diagnosis Jay will Severe ADHD. We then started looking at which medication would treat him the best. Along with Dr.K. we started him on Strattera. Strattera is a non-stimulant. It basically had the same warnings as stimulants (decreased appetite, headaches, nausea, etc.) But what we really liked about the Strattera was it is not a controlled drug. And it seemed to work. After being on the Strattera for 4 weeks he had benched marked to 68 wpm, completing assignments, and staying focused in class. Had even gotten to over 100 wpm. But then the problems started. He started having issues of not staying focused after lunch, complaining of headaches daily, not sleeping well, etc. The headaches continued to get worse until Jay missed 4 days in 2 weeks because of migraines.

So back to Dr. K. we go... He refers him to a Pediatric Neurologist (Dr. Syed) for the migraines. It was the worst experience for a child to go through. He walked in and said, "You are just spoiled, you have no ADHD." (He was so rude to Jay I thought he was going to cry) "No more medication until after a portable EEG in 2 weeks. Then if you need more medication we will re-evaluate in 2 wks after EEG." We stopped the Strattera and amazingly the migraines stopped. However, the problems at school escalated greatly in 3 days of being off. Jay was now back to reading 41 wpm. And was even acting up badly enough to get detention. With phone calls from the principal and Ms. Avery, we knew we had to get him back on some type of medication.

So back to Dr. K. again... This time we decided it was best to try Jay on a stimulant. We decided to go with Adderall. And Man What A Difference. It was immediate!!!!!!! We could see a difference. Ms. Avery could see a difference. His principal could see a difference. And most importantly JAY Could See A Difference!

Since taking the Adderall, Jay is staying focused, reading 90+wpm, completing all assignments, etc. He is now at grade level! Somewhere we didn't know if he'd get to. He's always had an issue with self-esteem but now his attitude is "If they can do it, so can I". He's holding a conversation now without getting off track. It's almost like having a totally different kid! He is back to feeling normal.

I hope that if there's someone reading this that is questioning getting their child tested for ADHD, our story will give them hope! So many people try to keep ADHD silent. It's nothing to be ashamed of. It's nothing to be scared of. You have to think about how much your child is suffering. More people have ADHD than people realize. Jay has been amazed at who all he knows with ADHD. And Yes, having ADHD you are different. But as in Jay's words, "I'm different because everyone is different. I have ADHD so I have to work harder to focus and that it!"



Thanks to Ms. Avery, Dr. Niinikoski, and Dr. Katona! Without their help and support, Jay would still be suffering!

Starting New

Ok, so I just realized that I haven't updated my blog in what is now over 4 months. There has been a lot happen in the past few months. Christmas, Bama Winning the National Championship, Birthdays, Sickness, work, school, daycare, Spring Break, etc.

But this is starting new. Today! March 31st!

Sad I know.....

Ok, so yeah, I know it's sad, I haven't updated the blog since when, oh yeah August 31st. Too many things have happened since then to even remember. There's been everything from Jay's 8th Birthday, My Birthday, Chase's 20th Birthday, little Cooper Fanning's birth, Granny's 80th Birthday Surprise Party, Beach trip, Halloween, and football....lots of football! (RTR!!!)


Hopefully I'll be better about updating the blog!






It's Robin & Batgirl off to save the world!

Anna's Is Now VOCAL!!!!

I know have a VOCAL daughter!

Since she was 10moths old, Anna has had constant ear infections. In the past three months, she's not went more than 10 days without running a fever and visiting her dr. We visited Tuscaloosa Peds so much, that the receptionists knew me and Anna by first names. One even made jokes about payment plans for co-pays!

So finally, her pediatrician(s) gave us our much needed referral. Last Wednesday, we took Anna to see Dr. Rosenstiel @ Tuscaloosa ENT. After looking in her ears he said "Still fluid, you know your options." I said, "TUBES!" Dave said, "As Soon As Possible!" It was scheduled for 2 days later!

She went through the surgery great! As soon as we got home, she ate enough for me and her. Then within an hour she started jabbering. And jabbering! And jabbering! It has been non-stop! It's like we have a new child. It's amazing! I feel horrible that she had to go through all the dr's visits and shots, but so happy and blessed that she's doing so well!


Anna w/ her Daddy after surgery!

2nd Grade!!!!!

Today starts Jay's 1st day of 2nd Grade! He loves his new teacher, Ms. Avery!

He was so big this morning. He didn't want me to walk him in. He said, "Mom, I'm not a little kid anymore. I'm a 2nd grader. Only Kindergarteners and 1st'ers need their Mommy's to walk them in!" And I guess I'm one of the odd Mom's, I was so glad that he's not wanting me to be right over him. He's had two horrible years at school, so I'm sooo glad that he still wants to go to school.


He didn't want me to take too many pictures today, but I did get him to agree to a few. But he wouldn't change his pose!

Hope everyone has a great 1st day of the new school year!

Can't believe it's happening!

I'm letting this sweet little thing go 630 miles... approx 10hrs away... to visit his Aunt Tetta & Uncle Way-Wayne in Pearland, TX. Not to mention he will not be back for over a week!We started talking about the trip at Christmas, then again during our Spring Break trip. Yeah, he's been camping for a few nights, but he was only at the most 2 hrs away. Not 10 hrs! He's excited but also a little nervous. This week he spent a few days home with Dad and also got to spend the day with The Fannings.

Since he is leaving late tonight with Poppa Rick & Nana, I decided to let him come with me and spend the day. Just so I can spend that extra little time with him. I love my Buggy Boo!Jay on our walk!

And he just had to have his pic made with Goldie!
Special thanks to Brittni & Vicki for being patient and putting up with my Munchkin!

I love you Buggy Boo! Have a great safe trip!

Wow really!

That's all I can say about my lack of updating my blog. Sorry! Hopefully, I will not be as bad here on out.

Since my last post we've been busy with the same schedule. Work, summer camp, and daycare Every day.


We did however manage a family beach trip a few weeks ago. Sorry, I don't have many pics downloaded yet. I know. I'm so far behind.


Thanks to Mark & Lisa for lending their house in Ft. Morgan.


And we managed a family trip to Tannehill w/ O'Pa & O'Ma. But after a long day of walking this is how it ended

HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY ANNA!!!!

A year ago we patiently waited for our Memorial Day baby to get here. It's amazing how she has came from being our little bundle of joy

to being this bouncing bundle of joy(Isn't this the cutest face to wake up to every morning???)

She is our little miracle princess! We love you Little Ms. Priss!

Happy Birthday Anna!

Mother's Day!

Well first of all, Happy Belated Mother's Day to all the Mom's!

I was lucky enough to spend the day with all of the important
Mother's in my life:
My Mom, Mom-in-law, Granny, Mawmaw, & My sister.
The only thing missing from a perfect day was Dave (he had to work)

After a day with the fam, my Dad took Jay fishing for the 1st time that he can remember.
After my dad giving him lots of advice and warnings, Jay got a bit. He about fell off of the deck. Words can not describe the pride and joy on either him or my Dad's face. And it just happens to be that this was the largest fish caught.

Here's how Anna & Charlie Hayes spent most of their day. Sharing Food! It's so fun to watch them together.

Weekend Pics

This was a nice weekend where for once we were not on the go constantly! Here's few pics of the kids!

This was actually Thursday night. My babies reading together, how sweet!

The Big News: Jay is now the Mets Catcher!
He did an awesome job! Didn't let any balls get past him!
He was so happy since his Daddy & Abicia both were catchers!

Sunday we were blessed enough to not have any bad weather. We had about an hour of rain, the sun came out and we had a beautiful afternoon.
Delaune and the boys came over for dinner, then the begging began. So after a little while, we let them outside. This pic doesn't do it justice! When they came in all three of them had to be stripped and put in the shower. After showers, I had to wash their clothes 3 times! There was so much trash/dirt/yuck attached! But to see their faces was priceless!

Happy Anniversary!!!!!!!!!

Today Dave & I celebrate our Anniversary!

It's hard for me believe that we have been married for 9 yrs!
I am so blessed to be married to my best friend!


Thank you Dave for the being the best husband I woman could ever ask for!
I LOVE YOU!!!!!!

Victoria Rowell

Monday , March 30, 2009 will be a day I will NEVER forget!

I got to meet/spend the day with Victoria Rowell. She is an actress/advocate/author/dancer etc. She is best known for her role as Dru on the Soap Young & The Restless. She visited UA campus as part of the Paul R Jones Lecture Series, which my dept helps sponsor.

Victoria is also a good friend with one of my friends/co-workers, Dr. Amalia Amaki! (Victoria just had to have her pic taken in front of the Dogwood tree!)

After her presentation, Brittni & I helped her & her fiance with her book signing. We had such a great time! Victoria is so down to earth.

Thanks Amalia, for giving me the opportunity to spend the day w/ "the" Victoria Rowell & her "Chauffeur"! One of the most amazing days ever!

Baseball

Jay started Baseball this year! And loves it! He is on the Mets team! He wasn't very happy about having to wear Orange & Blue (sorry ER) but loves that he's not on the Yankee's team! I was so happy that he's not the smallest one on the team. His coach is great! Coach Chris has the patience of a saint!

Jay's #6!

Sorry it's been so long!

Ok, yes I know it's been a long time, but there's been a lot going on.

Here's a brief synopsis since the last post:




Anna is crawling and getting into EVERYTHING!!!!! Plus she's trying to stand up and walk. She bear crawls more than anything.

My Spring Break was March 16-20. We went to visit Tetta & Way-Wayne in Houston. Needless to say, it would take me a week to get everything posted from that trip. We had a great time! We stayed busy but had a great time. But here's a few pics of what we did:

We of course ate at Central Texas BBQ. By far the best BBQ ever!


We were lucky enough that Amethyst & Jojo aka Fatboy were on Spring Break too! They went with us to all of the attractions! They are such a hoot! We loved having Ammie & Jojo with us!
The first day we went to the Natural History/Science Museum. Jay loved all the REAL dinosaur bones.




That night Jay, Retta, & I went to the Rodeo Houston. It was Jay's first rodeo. And we also got to see DARIUS RUCKER! The best part of the trip to me! He was great! Even sung a few Hootie songs.



The next day we went to the zoo.
On Wednesday we went to the Johnson Space Center. We actually got to watch the astronauts train underwater. Unfortunately, my camera went dead right as we got there.


We went to the Children's Museum on Friday.
Anna even got to enjoy everything here.
On our way home, we stopped in the swamp for a picnic.
Well it was the Atchafalaya. It's actually America's Largest Riverswamp. We had a wonderful picnic. Jay & Dave played football & I got tackled.

We also made a very long pit stop on the way home. Long story but in the end, Anna got to put her feet in the sand & the gulf for the 1st time! & She LOVED IT!!!

Crawling already!

Anna is officially mobile! She started crawling everywhere last night. It was like a light switch went on and she was on the go.


It just happened to be that she started crawling on her Daddy's birthday.
Happy Birthday Daddy! We love you!

Sorry So long but in the end SNOW!!!!!

Ok so I'm sorry it's taken so long to post, but just too much going on! Hopefully this post will update you a everything really quickly. But in no particular order....

• Jay has been named the "Victorious Viking" for his class @ FVES for the month of March. His teacher chooses the student who shows the best behavior for each month. She called me on a Friday afternoon, so I figured, "Oh great what did he do now?!?!" But she immediately said, "This is a good call!" She also said that he is the first Boy in his class to receive this award this year. He'll have a special lunch on Wednesday, where he'll be named the "Victorious Viking"! We're really proud of him!
• Anna is starting to crawl and scooting around everywhere. But she still isn't rolling over. Still seems to have no interest. Already teaching Jay that she likes his stuff!
• Jay lost another tooth. And got a two thumbs up from the dentist.
• Sheryl, Ben, & Charlie Haze came to visit. CH is getting so big!
• When I dropped Jay off for school last Tuesday, he said, "Mom I forgot to tell you, the best thing ever happened yesterday!" I said, what did Ms. Shirley announce to the class that you're the Victorious Viking for March? He said, "NO even better, "RILEY MILLER IS BACK!!!" For those of you who remember she was Jay's "Friend Girl" last year. He said she' s still the prettiest girl in the school!
  
• Jay stayed on the "green" light ALL month long. The whole month of Feb! WOW!!! So he was treated with a trip to the movies and sleep over with Clark & Carter.
  

• Now to the SNOW!!!! First of all Jay heard James Spann say (during the tornado outbreak on Friday) that West Alabama should at least have a dusting of snow on Saturday night/Sunday morning. So at 5 pm the boys started asking me & Dave when it was going to start snowing. Let me tell you that got old after 3 or 4 times from all 3 boys in 4 hrs. Well, I woke up around 6:15-6:30 to see that the ground was already covered and it was snowing hard. So I wake up Dave and then go get the boys up! They were so excited! Jay said it was so much snow it was a Blizzard! Anna on the other hand was not that impressed. She was much happier inside watching everyone outside. Here's a few pics of the kids enjoying the "Blizzard"!

This is after Delaune nailed Jay right in the middle of his face.
He had snow everywhere! haha Good aim Delaune!