This one you can't beat....

This post is from back in January when Henry first tried milk....

Henry had his first taste of cows milk. Here is video of his first taste. I think he has been waiting his entire 12 months for this because as you can see there is not a single moment of hesitation...or pondering or what this is? He just enjoys! He has also learned some sippy cup tricks...keep your eye on the cup and his hands.

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For Aunt Raina

Who once again had a great day with baby Eli. She is feeling like a mommy and loving every moment. She is very busy and is surprised at how fast the days fly by. I remember those first few weeks of becoming a mommy and how I waited all day for Ed to get home so I could grab a shower....and he would ask how my day was and I wouldn't really know what to exactly say I did but I knew that the day went fast...I guess just busy lovin' up baby. Now with two I wonder what the big deal was about taking five minutes to get a shower in. Here are your little nephew's at bath tonight. Charley has taken to loving his goggles. They make me laugh! You said you wanted a video every day...I can't do that...but I will post this one today. Dumb to everyone else reading this...but for Aunt Raina I know she will enjoy!

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# 6 Grace in Small Things....Summer...

1. A margarita while my husband grills up some yummy dinner!

2. My summer short hair - no prep, compliments from STRANGERS, and feels good all day long!

3. Kids playing in the backyard, giggling, squealing - summer friendship!

4. Windows open - cool summer breezes!

5. Popsicle smiles and sticky fingers!

Thanks Lynelle for the kid swap today and the song recommendation! This has always been a favorite!

Everything....but the kitchen sink...

So on Wednesday the boys and I will head up to Ed's parents for the weekend. Ed will follow later in the week. It is always fun to get away, change up the routine, challenge ourselves in a new environment, escape. I always come home appreciating the routine we have at home. Going to Ed's parents is always relaxing and fun. This visit we will do some mega strawberry picking, jam making, visit Lake Superior's beach, enjoy the fourth of July festivities, camp for a night, and just hang out in their tree house of a living room. I might be lucky to get some reading time, a nap on the couch, a game of canasta with my brother in law and sister in law, and some good talk time with my mother in law. The unfortunate part about travel is packing.....I miss the day of two bags..one for clothes and one for shoes. Now there is so much that it drives me nuts. I always swear I will bring less next time....I can always do a load of laundry...but when heading north I have no idea what the weather will do. I want to be able to get muddy and dirty. I don't want to worry about laundry...so I pack everything but the kitchen sink. Even though I know there is a Walmart nearby, a husband arriving a day later to bring anything forgotten, and a grandma who usually has whatever I forget...whether it is shampoo, hand lotion, socks, or mittens.

Over the river and through the woods
To grandmother's house we go....

The growing list of crap I must tow...

Charley

6 Summer shirts
3 Fall shirts
5 Shorts
2 Pants
5 Socks
6 underwear
5 pajamas
running shoes
sandals
keens
swimsuits
swimsuit cover up
Toothbrush
Te-te
Clock radio & CD
Night light

Henry
7 summer outfits
3 winter type outfits
2sweatshirt
3 socks
sandals
keen
running shoes
5 pajamas
toothbrush
Blanket
Diapers
Wipes
Swim suit
Swim cover up
nuks

Me
Pants
Shorts
Shirts
Long sleeved
Jean jacket
Bras & underwear
Socks
Swimsuits
Swim suit cover ups
PJ's
Workout clothes

Fleece
Flip flops
Keens
Running shoes
Make up bag
Tylenol
Reading light
Phone
Phone charger
Camera
Camera charger
Laptop
Laptop cords
Books
Calendar
Shampoo
Sunglasses

Ed
You are in charge of yourself!

Other
Sunscreen
Bug spray
Towel
Lawn chairs
Double jogging stroller
Umbrella stroller
Sand toys
Baseball Tee
Charley’s glove
Henry’s markers and paper
Charley’s puzzles
Charley’s games
Water bottles
DVD player for car
Movies
Henry’s books
Glue gun and Glue
Tent
Sleeping bags
Pack and play
Pillows
Camping box
Blow up mattress

Eli Updates....

Now that things are settling down updates might slow down but I will for sure still update when Raina gives me info. So until he is discharged I will be here. So, Raina's first night on her own went well. It was hard but also good. He continues to eat like a champ but has been spitting up more. So she gets to change his outfit, which I don't think she is complaining about! :) His test results for the spinal tap came back NEGATIVE! YAY! So talk of discharge is in the air, but still lots to accomplish before that day. Makes Raina excited. She was telling me today how she has plans today to do a few things (walk Bailee, lunch, a visitor, etc) and has already started brainstorming things she wants to do with baby Eli when they get home. SO FUN! Raina's friend Peggy, honorary Aunt Peggy, got to hold Eli. I am so jealous. I hate being so far away when it comes to these life moments. But that means Eli is doing well enough that he can have visitors.

Funny story, well not funny at the time, but the "CODE" button in their room seems to be malfunctioning. Twice now a zillion doctors have come running, yelling CODE!, arriving in Raina's room to find Raina hanging out calmly. For some reason the Code button has been going off. Still very freaky at the moment for Raina but now she knows how fast people respond and how many people come running from ALL OVER the hospital. She said this last time that they need to still come if it goes off again, because what if it was real.

She is a mama! Enjoying every minute - even the crazy, spit up, no sleep, moments. She can't wait for the weekend when Andy can be there to enjoy them all with her again. She mentioned a while back how Andy has been her rock through all this. How well they have gotten along in this stressful situation, they didn't fight at all! And tonight he arrived with two dozen roses - WHAT A GUY! Hope night number two went even better.

Pool time..

So this afternoon I decided to challenge myself and take both boys to the community pool where Charley takes swimming lessons. It is a pool very similar to my old high school pool. Charley would NOT be able to stand however, there would also be nothing to tempt him to run around to0. We have a very nice zero entry family pool nearby but it costs a little more, is very crowded, is outside, and I just haven't been to it so it stresses me out. We have been doing swim lessons at this pool. So Charley wore his swim life jacket and I brought a floaty for Henry to ride in. On the way there I did the "Mama is nervous about doing this on her own. So you need to be patient and listen." It was AWESOME! Because it was a deeper pool Charley SWAM the entire time. He jumped in independently, played catch with Henry and I, and paddled far from me going under all the time. I was so impressed. When they called the 5 minute rest break I was unhappy...I did not want to get Henry out because I knew he would get cold. So Henry and I got out, snuggled in a towel and Charley plopped back in - ALL BY HIMSELF! His swim teacher was the lifeguard. It wasn't that busy. Both boys had a great time. We will definitely go back...and we didn't get sunburned or cold - since today wasn't an ideal pool or beach day! And I loved that once I was in the water I was in...I wasn't chasing around in my lovely swimsuit. Who likes to do that! I am so glad I found the energy to take my boys. It was worth it!

Grace in Small Things #5

5 things I love about my boys as brothers...

1. Charley taking Henry's hand to lead him into the library, through a sprinkler, or to wherever they may journey.

2. Goodnight kisses and hugs that are given to each other without prompting from mommy and daddy.

3. Charley's ability to react nicely when his little brother smacks him - hard!

4. Giggling as they run at the couch and plow into it.

5. Charley not wanting Henry to go take a nap and Henry finding Charley excitedly after nap and shouting, "HI!"

More Good Things for Baby Eli...

Eli, Raina, and Andy all had a great but overwhelming day. Eli and Raina will spend their first night together tonight. He was moved out of ICU into a more normal room. So for me...this is like her first night after giving birth...when it comes to caring for baby Eli. She will wake to feed him, listen to his little noises, and adjust to the overwhelming mommy worries, that all new moms have during their first night. However, she has spent a week watching baby Eli hooked up to various machines and has watched his oxygen go up and down and has more anxiety than the average first time mom. So I send her peace tonight and hope that she can rest, if she can't sleep, and take in these quiet moments she will have with the little bugger tonight.

Not only was he moved out of ICU, he also had his lumbar puncture and they finally got the fluid sample they have been trying for. That will rule out some of the scary stuff they have been thinking he was dealing with...this is mostly a precaution because tests and signs have proven he does not have this virus.

His platelets went up today! Huge deal! Yay!

Andy's mom and dad popped in for a visit. They got to hold him and watch him get a bath. Some of Andy's sisters came too. I am sure they uplifted and distracted them for a while today. My mom and dad got a visit in too. Grandpa Bob got to hold him.

It was an overwhelming day for them....overwhelming in all good ways.

Bailee returned home tonight so Andy will spend his first night at home with Bailee and will return to work tomorrow.

Normal is coming soon Raina. Get through tonight and you will be on your way! Good luck little sister! This is the beginning of living life in the "I have a newborn baby fog". Sleep is for the weak! Be strong!

Happy Sunday

Homemade waffles with Bayfield blueberries!

Song recommendations...

Ed is sick of hearing my blog music playing in the background throughout the day. He literally cringes when certain songs come on. Anyone have a song that is meaningful to your life ... I am always listening...share! Or should I just take the music thing off...is it annoying?

A little something

to brighten Aunt Raina's day. You will want to scroll down to the bottom of the page and turn off the music by pressing the pause button. Henry shares his signing skills and his animal sounds! He can't wait to be big boy cousin to little Eli and share all that he knows.

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Good Things

I have waited all day to hear the update and of course it arrived when I wasn't home to share the "good things" right away. I have to play Good Things...since my mom and dad are seeing the BoDeans tonight at summer fest.

It sounds like things are starting to calm down for Raina and Andy. All good news for Eli, also known as E-bug, Eli, Burrito, or Sumo. I can't wait until I can hear how some of these nicknames are coming to be. Raina has also referred to him as a piggy because he is eating like a champ. He has gained 10 oz. in 8 days! What a champ.

He has been moved out of his "warmer" and now is cozy in normal bassinet which Raina is stuffing with little outfits. He got his iv moved from out of his hand to his foot. And yesterday he got to be held by his Grandma Barb.

Last night they returned from dinner out to receive the good news that his blood test came back negative...proving that his earlier test had been a false positive. Since his skin test, blood test, and liver function are all testing well they feel very confident he doesn't have the virus they were worried about. However, they will attempt another Lumbar puncture tomorrow or Monday to make sure there is none if this nasty virus in his spinal fluid (most unlikely...but gotta be safe). He is SUCH a trooper. If that all is negative-he will only need antivirals (I know we've been saying antibiotics but Raina was corrected today that it is an antiviral he is getting) through his IV for about 7 more days.

His platelets are still a wonder right now. Hematology is working on it. They are waiting for Raina and Andy's blood work to return. This might give them some answers. His platelets continue to drop slowly. They are thinking right now that Eli has Andy's platelets and Raina's antigens are fighting off his platelets...in which case he will need time to just work Raina's blood out of his system ( I think...I am not totally sure if I am understanding this part correctly).

Which means only another short week and they will most likely bring their little guy home! Raina is so excited to have normal...to have Eli and Bailee meet. When I hear my sister talk or when I read her emails and texts to me I can feel the love they feel towards their little Eli. She seems very much more relaxed.

Thank you to her co-worker/friend that brought lunch today. Brats, noodles, cucumber (both of which are Raina's favorites), a beer for Andy...not Raina...and other yummy things. I know they appreciate not having to leave and find food for all three meals of the day.

Lots of "Good Things" going on for baby Eli and Raina and Andy. All of your prayers are working!

Happy Saturday!




Here is what little Eli thinks about all of the pokes he's been getting. He says...enough of this medical stuff!

Eli Update...well a preview...

It is Friday night friends and you should go out and enjoy yourselves. Raina and Andy went out to dinner tonight...trying to distract themselves because test results were coming back tonight. VERY GOOD NEWS! Will explain tomorrow- Raina is going to email me details tomorrow! But sleep well and know that all are feeling very confident that things are looking up! Test results were good!...no GREAT!

Update on what I wasn't doing

It is always my goal on Fridays to get the house picked up so that we can just kick back and relax on the weekends. I don't want a mound of laundry or a messy kitchen hanging over my head on Saturday mornings. So even today, with our air conditioner on the fritz, in 82 degree heat inside our house, I attacked the kitchen and laundry pile. Ahhhhh - feels good.






To my boys - this morning we had to go get an oil change and it took an hour. And for an hour 8:45-9:45 you were kind, quiet, patient, little gentlemen. Surrounded by 10 silent men waiting for their cars, you listened to your mom (the only woman in the waiting room). You cleaned up when it was time to go. You got along and you made me proud. Blessed - I am! then we hit a new to us splash pad. I love these community parks with the sprinkler set ups. We went to one earlier this week and so this was Henry's second experience and he was much more into it. Charley was once again a great big brother and took him by the hand to guide him through. Free summer fun! And then both boys napped! Blessed!



I am STILL thinking about my sister and family all the time. How dare I complain about the air conditioner, laundry, or dirty dishes. I think that today was a very anxious day for them because they are waiting on test results. They also were busy with visitors (my mom and dad and brother!). I am sure that distracted them for a bit. As soon as I know anything I will update.

Enjoy your Friday night!

Just a blip...

Eli is 1 week old today! It was 1 week ago that I hopped in the car and drove to meet my little nephew. This time of not knowing what is going on inside Eli's little tiny body will be so short in his journey through life. But I know for me, just his silly Aunt, that this week has seemed huge. I can not even imagine the anxiety Raina and Andy have from moment to moment waiting for answers. I miss normal. I just keep telling myself...this is just a blip in his journey.

No news...is good news....

YIPEE! No news is good news I guess. I assumed since I hadn't heard much from my sister that things were just stable...and the world spins madly on....


Here is her medical update...

He had his 2nd attempt at the lumbar puncture-but unfortunately they could not get the spinal fluid! If he is dehydrated at all (which he is not) it is harder and just his size, they couldn't get it. So, they decided that they will just re-run all the blood tests and hope for negatives-and from there-we will determine how long to treat with antibiotics. Either way they will retry the lumbar puncture next week-most likely. We should get results from the blood test on Saturday-praying hard for negatives!

His platelets went from 30,000 to 120,000 (after the transfusion) and today to 130,000-but most likely due to the transfusion.

He is off the IV fluids because his blood sugars are all good since yesterday. He gained 120 grams yesterday-they look for a baby to gain 30-50 grams/day so he is a piggy! (well he did get iv fluids for 1/2 the day too). He now weighs 5 lbs 14 oz! (he has gained 10 oz since birth in 6 days amazing-again-fluids)

Here are love notes from mama Raina....

Andy and I gave him his 2nd bath. SO CUTE. He liked it. He didn't cry at all. He pooped while he was laying/drying on the blanket before we could get the next diaper on-hilarious. He had to get his sheets changed after that and we laughed hard. Today he is wearing jammies with a giraffe and polk-a-dots and looks super cuddly.

They had a nice distraction today when Raina's good friend Melissa visited. Took their mind off things. Raina will go have ice cream with her other good friend Peggy for a little break tonight...yum! They received another meal from Raina's coworkers - thank you so much! I want them eating! And wow, their lawn got mowed today by Jason - have a beer after mowing in this heat. I did it today and think I sweat 20 gallons....at least!

A little boy across the hall is going home today and they witnessed all the prep and this excited Raina. Children's does an amazing job of prepping parents to take their little miracles home. So I think this eased her mind. I think she is also realizing what support she will have with mom, Melissa, Peggy, her mother-in-law....me ...and many others. So many to help them when it is time to go home!

Waiting game now until Saturday when they get test results. So tomorrow should be another nice day for them. Yay!

I am going to go celebrate with my neighbor at the local community fest Wine Tasting! Could get a little crazy...with what the week has been like! So I will not be updating anymore this week. I will actually ban myself from the computer and make sure Ed enforces this since a little wine could make me extra wordy, emotional, and goofy. So rest easy friends. No news is good news...and the world spins madly round!

What have I been doing....

Not this...


Or this...


So all week our kitchen counter has looked like this....I do clean it up but I just haven't timed the dishwasher being done and unloaded in time to reload after dinner. And quite frankly, this week especially, it is the last thing I want to do. The laundry...well it is clean and it just needs to be folded. But sitting and folding it all....well just haven't had the energy. My mind is so busy thinking about more important things and by the time the boys are in bed it is the last thing I want to do with my "me" time. So this week...we live like this.

Summer has proven to be way more busy than the "school" year for us. Granted, Charley is only in preschool...this summer we are up and out of the house four days a week by 8am. He is participating in tennis, soccer, t-ball, swimming, a park program...hmmm anything else. We have to throw in there magic shows at the library, sprinkler/ splash pads, , play dates with friends...and whatever else we can think of. No wonder the boys are ready for bed by 7pm and I look at this counter and couch all week.

So Aunt Raina, you are a mama - and your laundry will explode and you will wonder how one little baby can alter your weekly load so drastically. But he will! So there ya go...a little entertainment while we wait for our update from "the bird." It is coming...I can feel it! Praying for good news!

Waiting game...

Dear Family and Friends,

So this blog used to be about goofy, silly things going on in our life but recently it has changed to give updates to those who love Raina and Andy...and now their little guy Eli. I have been struggling being so far away and not being able to help or fix this. But I guess giving updates so that they don't have to repeat the experience is helping. So I will sleep tonight knowing I am doing something as a big sister. It was a really rough day for Raina and Andy..and of course Eli. And also rough for all of us that hear little tidbits of information but not the whole story. I wait all day, carrying my phone for an update from my sister. I don't expect her to worry about updating us all, but boy am I anxious to hear any little bit of information! During a rough hour here Charley came and said, "Mama, I know you are sad but how about we play camping." Tough for a little guy see his mama sad. He doesn't understand that his new little cousin is struggling a bit.

The tough part...the medical gunk. Even Raina admits that explaining and understanding is tough...so in her words:

the focus on platelet count has now transferred over to a new worry about a possible virus that came back positive that could indicate a central nervous infection. Everyone believes it is a false positive-the whole team, and the head of the infection disease (ID) department too. They have him on antibiotics so he is covered if it is in fact positive, but our nurse said that all her patients that have had this have been wayyyyyyyyy sicker (not eating, lethargic, problems with liver etc) so they are hopeful that it is really negative. They ended up giving him platelets so they could do a lumbar puncture/ spinal tap (b/c of the risk of bleeding, they ended up doing the platelet transfusion which was depressing to me, because now his platelet count will go up and it will be b/c of the transfusion so we can't watch to see what it does on it's own) anyways....he had the lumbar puncture but the doctor was unable to get the sample of his CSF (spinal fluid) so they have to take him to IR tomorrow to do it where they can see an xray and 'hit" the right spot. Then we have to wait 2 days to get the results.

We are praying harder and harder that it comes back negative. Unsure of the plan after that. We'll see. He is a trooper and is sleeping soundly now after the procedure (which we stepped out of the room for.)

Exciting news! My sister just called...and we don't talk via the phone these days because I will make her cry, she will make me cry...etc. So when I saw on my phone that Raina was calling I knew something was up. Good or bad? GOOD! Really good! They got good news. His tests came back with his liver function results. They came back showing that his liver is functioning normally/wonderfully/ however you want to describe it! This is really good news and they are celebrating. This is a good sign that means that the virus thing is most likely not a worry. His platelets were also up quite a bit so that added to the happiness. They knew they would go up with the transfusion but they are still celebrating!

Honestly, my mom saw him today and she witnessed him pooping -without a diaper! It sprayed all over! She said he adorable and doesn't look like he has any challenges or things bothering him. So we will hold onto the good that just came about in the last hour! I am so joyful because the nights are the toughest for Raina and Andy and now they can go to sleep with such positive news.


Raina also said,

very very thoughtful coworkers and friends who are bringing lunches for us-SO nice, even though we not that hungry we are continuing to make ourselves eat. Andy will put off going back to work for a few more days to be here with me and for the little guy. A lot of this is a total waiting game and that is so hard. We just know that he is in good hands-as Andy says- 5th in the nation for the neonatal ICU and 3rd in the nation for Children's hospital. Just amazing that our little guy is being taken care of by some of the best doctors in the nation (seen by hematology, head of ID and many other neonatologists!) The nurses are awesome too.

As we waited for baby to arrive I had a hard time believing that Raina was going to be a mother. She is my little sister and she was always the baby when we played house. She was always the student when we played school. She has been a wonderful aunt to my boys. And Andy...well gosh he is FUN Uncle Andy who gets down and wrestles, tosses, and laughs with my boys. He mixes my drink a little too strong, plays a good hand of Hearts, and is always ready for a good time. When I saw my sister in the last weeks of her pregnancy it became more of a reality that she was going to have this little responsibility who would call her mama! There is no question that my sister and Andy are parents. They are making decisions, having worries that most parents don't have to deal with. Their priorities are different, they wake thinking of their little Eli, and they fall asleep dreaming of him. I can bet their conversations during the day include Eli. This isn't how they planned for Eli's first couple days to go...but they are going with it, trying to enjoy it, and for sure -loving him up every second of every hour.

Keep them in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you to those who are helping keep them nourished. Peggy, thank you for running over little things they need - they know you are there. Mom thanks for taking the calls from all of us, relaying information, and popping in to see little Eli and Raina and Andy. I know Raina would love to be able to update everyone individually, so would my mom and I. But it really is hard to keep telling the sad stuff and the happy stuff gives us peace. So thanks for allowing us to update you this way.

More tomorrow! Night everyone!

Send prayers

Please send prayers for baby Eli! He is having different/ difficult tests and procedures today and they could all use extra positive prayers, and thoughts. Very hard for mama and papa. Please don't call them ...but they appreciate your thoughts and prayers.

Eli Update

Not much new to share ....he is of course getting stronger, eating well...etc. Raina is getting nervous about the day she brings him home and having had all this time worrying about his breathing and vitals...to go home with him now is going to be stressful. However, there is no talk yet on when he would go home-- she is just anticipating the day - excitedly and anxiously. They were encouraged yesterday to get a nap and they were able to rest. They ran to Target and shopped for the little guy and even got him into an outfit and snapped some pictures. She said she would send them to me sometime soon.

Other than that....Raina sounds good. Talk of Andy heading back to work and saving some days for when Eli comes home. I am sure this is sooo hard for Andy but he really will appreciate having a day or two to be home with Eli and Raina when it is time to go home. Both Andy and Raina's coworkers have been so supportive throughout the entire pregnancy and now. Thank you to Raina's coworkers for getting a few meals to them. SO KIND! I know she appreciates having someone else think about food and getting it to her so she remembers to eat.

Nothing else to report. Looking forward to an update soon...I hope! It amazes me how I go about my day with my boys...getting happy, getting crabby, busy busy. And then I remember that my worries of cleaning up the kitchen or folding the four baskets of clean laundry are so not important when I think about Raina and Andy consumed with their little miracle. We are all still thinking about you guys!
Love and Prayers,
Your big sister!

Elijah

So we are keeping busy with the everyday things...and today at Target I had a moment. After naming our boys I found that everywhere we went there were Charleys and Henrys. It drove me nuts. I thought when we picked those names they were slightly unique. There are even brothers named Charley and Henry that I run into. WOW! So today at Target as we are leaving I see a mom squaring off with her little 2 year old son. She looks at me with eyes of...you understand this moment. I smile at her and then she says, "Elijah, come on. Right now!" Elijah wasn't a name I came across much, as a teacher I hear a lot of names...no Elijahs...and there at Target I hear it- not even 5 days after meeting my nephew! The boy was stubborn! Holding his ground. I think Raina and Andy's little Elijah is also showing his strength. They had an uneventful night which is good. His platelets didn't drop they actually went up a little. Today mama and papa are going to focus on just enjoying him so they warned less updates. I am glad they are going to do less worrying of the medical stuff. Raina said she is singing and reading him books. He pooped and is still nursing great. So keep them in your thoughts. Know they are consumed by him, as all new parents are.

E Bug Update!

I just talked to my sister. She sounded incredible! So proud of her. They had a really good day. Their best day so far she said. The team of doctors and nurses are excellent and have Raina and Andy very busy caring for Eli. They have Andy and Raina doing much of the care. So a bath was given, diapers are being changed, glucose tested, monitors being read. Raina is nursing him regularly and the lactation consultant went to bat for them and got them a room. Raina is under the impression they will have this room for the duration but time will tell. I am so happy that they have a place to stay and keep their belongings. She can get up when needed to nurse her little one. They ran home today and showered and grabbed some food. She said the were back at the hospital in 45 minutes...and she chuckled...obviously they are determined to be with their little guy.

She has noticed changes in the shape of his face already. He is getting fluids plus the nursing so he hasn't dropped in weight like most babies do. He is very relaxed and content. He rarely cries or fusses. They have had more time holding him and being with him which is good. Of course it will be more wonderful when he isn't as hooked up.

Medical stuff...I have a hard time passing along this info because a lot of it I do not totally understand. They are still not totally sure why Eli's platelets are off. I think I will ask my sister to email me a small blurb on what she wants to share. I don't think she is a big fan of speculating what the issues are because it causes more worries than needed. Much of what she explained to me seemed to fit the "It will hopefully resolve itself." She said he is doing fine and they kind of think he will get sent home but will have to come in to get his platelets checked. At the most he would have to have a transfusion but they are hoping and don't think this will have to occur at this time. Something about Andy's blood and Raina's blood being different and maybe he needs to work on getting rid of Raina's blood...which babies do after they are born anyways. Why his platelets are down is still a mystery. Sorry I am not better at explaining.

I am heading to bed tonight thinking that much of what Eli is dealing with is going to resolve itself in his own time. Raina seems very positive, not scared, and confident that he is looking and acting strong. The big blessing is they have a room so they don't have to come back and forth to nurse. They are being treated wonderfully.

If someone from Raina's work could email me..my email is on the right side of my blog...that would be great. I am wondering if there are a few people who could work with me to coordinate a few meal deliveries so they don't have to take time to think about eating. They don't have room service at Children's so they have to run out. Either bag meals or fast food...what do you think?

Anyways...I wish I was closer but like Raina said...no one is going to be able to meet the little bug until he is home ..most likely. And they are consumed with caring for him so thoughts and prayers are what we can give them.

I will add pictures when I get some from Raina...either tonight or bright and early tomorrow!

I got to chat with my sister. She told me what she was wearing. What she ate today. She sounded so strong, so NOT exhausted, and so motherly! Even though this isn't the typical start - they are doing all the things that a new mama and daddy do. They are consumed. They are in love with their son - Elijah! Sleep well tonight little mama! Rest well big daddy! You guys are already great parents!

I am calling him E bug today...

Happy Father's Day - Grace in Small Things #4

I have been working on my father's day blog post for a few days. I decided to name five things that amaze me about Ed as a daddy. It has been hard to finish this since my mind has been consumed with my brother in law becoming a daddy and my sister becoming a mom. I was able to go and visit them and witness a few moments during their first 24 hours as parents.

I was also able to have breakfast with my dad. He too deserves a big shout out on father's day. He has raised three children, two of which have become parents to their own children. Another who has earned his doctorate and is doing amazing things. He has built special relationships with my two sons as a grandpa. Every time we are there he surprises me by coming up with some activity whether it is building roads with rope at the cottage or washing the little red car. I wish him more time to relax and less stress on the job. More time with his friends and less crap in his diet. More adventures with my mom and less road trips for work. Happy Father's day dad!

For father's day this year Charley came up with the idea to go mini golfing. So Ed and Charley mini-golfed and Henry and I walked the walking path around the course. Then we gave daddy time to catch up on work and watch the golf that was on tv. For dinner daddy grilled some filet for dinner. It was scrumptious. And of course we had french silk pie all weekend!

To my husband - here are five ways you amaze me as a father. Happy Father's day!

1. I love the attention Ed gives to his boys each evening when he arrives home from work. Rough housing, football in the yard, or a bath and some deep conversation before bed. Ed consistently gives bath to the boys each night. I find his involvement in the boys day to day life gives peace to our household. He works hard to get home on time so we can have a family dinner plus some time to play.

2. Ed is willing to make things happen...whether it is taking Charley skiing, getting Henry into swim lessons, or building a sandbox so we can enjoy it all summer.

3. His ability to be calm cool collected daddy when mommy is on edge. His daddy perspective is always reasonable and wise.

4. His growth as a daddy has been amazing. When Charley was born he had very little experience with children...he wasn't a babysitter when he was younger. He naturally became a pro and this is one of the ways he continues to surprise me. Each new stage in our boys lives give me reason to fall in love with him again.

5. The "daddy" surprises throughout the year. Whether it is volunteering to go on a preschool field trip, getting in the pool for every swim lesson with Henry, getting home for doctor appointments, being stay at home daddy so I can run to see my sister's new baby....he continues to surprise me by doing things that make him an involved and loving father.

Trying to keep busy in between updates...

So Charley decided he wanted to have a birthday party today. He explained, "I got the cake from Target. It is there in that bowl. You can make the decorations and wrap a present. I will be the kid and you can be the mom. I will do this puzzle while you get the party ready. And it will be a surprise. I will have to RETEND I don't know about it. I want all my boy friends to come. " I replied that after the party we will go outside and play in the sandbox. He said, "That is fine because my party will only take 20 minutes." "So mama, you have to go do the surprise, I will RETEND that I am at the park with my friends and so they will be a little late for the surprise. Go hide!"

So heck, I am trying to keep myself busy and though this seems silly I made a banner, cut a piece of Ed's father's day pie, and wrapped a "New to Charley" puzzle that I stashed from a garage sale. Time for the surprise.

It is really hard to wonder what is happening with the my sister and family. I want to know what they are learning from moment to moment, are they getting attention from doctors often enough to keep their hearts at ease. What is Raina wearing today? Is she caring for herself - she needs to remember that she just gave birth and deserves to be cared for too! Is Andy getting meals? And of course, how is that little Eli bug doing!? So we will have a RETEND (this is how Charley says pretend) birthday party and continue to wait for more news. Shoot ....Charley is shouting and telling me where to hide. Better go - wouldn't want him to know about the surprise.

Eli update

This morning things are getting underway at Children's Hospital. Raina and Andy are feeling confident in the care he is getting...especially now that it is Monday morning and Team Rounds have started. They got to sit in while a team of doctors from all different specialties discussed Eli and his needs. Very powerful! Hematology will look deeper into things today. Raina has been able to nurse him quite often, which she wasn't able to do at first because they wanted to monitor exactly how much was going in and coming out etc. But he is nursing now more often which I know is so good for mama.

Andy changed his diaper, welcome to being a daddy! Which by the way, I have mentioned so much about my sister in all this but standing beside her is Eli's daddy and the person who is keeping Raina calm through all this. He knew when baby was born that he would be thrown into being a dad...but he didn't expect to be dealing with these circumstances. No first time dad should have to worry about all of this right off the bat, but Andy is handling it all well and after all of this has calmed down a skinned knee, a little fever, or a stubbed toe is going to be nothing!

They appreciate all the thoughts and prayers so keep them coming. And I will update again when I have something to share. Meanwhile, life goes on in our household. Trying to keep myself busy so I don't go crazy thinking and wondering about all of this.

P.S. These two pictures were taken by my mom at 9 pm last night. I think all the pictures I took were very deceiving. This picture of him makes his small 5 pound 4 ounce size more real. He is a tiny miracle....but you know what they say...it's the little things in life.....

Oh - and Raina is checking this so if you want to leave her a little message on here in the comments she will see it!

It's a big world -baby and you're little... for a little while!

Little Eli is doing okay. This morning he was moved from the hospital where he was born to Children's Hospital. He is in the ICU there and is being monitored very closely. He is looking adorable! He has nursed some but is being fed good things that will help him grow too. Raina and Andy are able to stay at the hospital, but because they live so close this won't be guaranteed nightly. They do live very close but it is VERY hard to deal with these circumstances. His vitals are good. His issues are with his blood. They haven't figured out why his blood is so thick or why his platelets are off. They are doing many tests to figure out what exactly he is dealing with. There are no answers at this point and I am hoping that an update on here will alleviate the need for Raina or my mom to have to repeat the information over and over. I, myself, find it hard to explain without getting sad. We all have faith and confidence that he is going to be just fine but his start has been tougher than expected. Raina and Andy are of course exhausted but they are advocating for their little miracle and dealing with things the best they can. Tomorrow they will be heartbroken when they journey home to shower and clean up without little Eli in his car seat but their minds are at ease knowing he is getting wonderful care.

Little things that happened today for little Eli - he is off oxygen, he smiled in his sleep, he got his hand up by his mouth, he is tooting, he nursed for 20 minutes and then burped! He is taking a nuk, Raina's milk is coming in and she is pumping away! and they got a room tonight with a bed that will allow them to sleep and wake when they want to see him.

I am struggling because I am so far away and I don't know what to do to help. So I went shopping and got him two little newborn outfits. I carry my phone at all times. I have tried to give Ed a happy Father's day but have broken down into tears many times. I can't call my sister because I know I will fall apart but I am hoping really soon they will get things figured out and then at least we won't all be wondering. I think once we know what Eli is dealing with we will all feel a little more at ease.

Raina will send me some pictures tomorrow and I will update when I get them. Good night all! Don't forget to say a prayer for baby Eli, mama Raina, and papa Andy.

Welcome Elijah Casey!

We all come into this world on a chosen day to begin our story. The last few months have been filled with anticipation as we awaited baby to enter our world. Much talk, many emails, and many thoughts were exchanged on when it would all happen. This past Thursday my sister called with questions, wondering….how do you know when it is time! I was gifted the chance to experience her first hours of labor via ichat, text messaging, and our cell phones – ahhhh technology. By morning, with no announcement, my big sister anxiety started kicking in, I ordered mom to head to the hospital to snoop around, and I packed my bag. Ed tied things up at work and came home to be stay at home daddy so I could go welcome this little miracle. MY SISTER WAS GOING TO BECOME A MOTHER!

When one enters the world there is a woman destined to be his/her mother and love unconditionally. Whether you birth the baby or are picked in other special circumstances... when a woman becomes a mother life changes and is forever changed. My sister’s life changed and I became an aunt on June 19th. Elijah Casey entered the world and was loved near and far. Daddy Andy cut the cord and mama Raina looked into his squinty little eyes and was naturally – a mother.

Elijah’s story is starting with strength and persistence. He had a few little challenges and has spent time in a cozy “ tanning bed” staying warm, getting oxygen, and being watched over by may angel nurses. He is a little miracle….only 5 pounds 4 ounces. He is so tiny and so precious with black hair (maybe like both his grandpas). I think his little lips have Raina written all over them. Though he isn’t hanging out with his mama and daddy in their room he is being watched, poked, tickled, and caressed every moment they can get. He continues to show what a fighter he is and gains strength.

I have given birth to my two boys with little complication. I would even categorize my experience as “by the book.” We all have our story and each story is precious. But when you see a baby who is so tiny and needs a little special prayer and love enter the world you really see what a miracle life is. Mama Raina and Daddy Andy are showing calm, relaxed, natural care for their little miracle. I am amazed at the grace and patience they are showing when I know all they want to do is pick up their little miracle and snuggle. This time to snuggle will come, very soon!

I said to my mom today, I wonder if Raina comprehends yet how her world has changed. How her first thoughts in the morning will be of someone other than herself. I am filled with so much joy for them. And yes, I would love to make it all just right, not scary, but this is their story. This is their start and this is their son who is going to change a little each moment and become more and more of a person who will continue to change their world from day to day.

I have a nephew. I can’t wait to get my hands on him, watch him grow up, and see who he becomes – a little of each of them.
Life begins,
in it’s own miraculous way.
How precious it is.

Once upon a time….Elijah Casey was welcomed into the world and Raina became a mama!

Congratulations little sister!

#3 Grace in Small Things

1. Being on time
2. Mom's Club family picnic - smiles and friendly chatter!
3. Anticipating Friday!
4. Thinking that I may have mastered a chocolate chip cookie recipe
5. Having a sister!

There still are door to door vacuum salesmen!

And today I was the idiot that got snagged into giving up a whole freakin' hour and a half of my day. We returned home from swimming and got snagged out in our driveway. They promised a carpet cleaning of one of our rooms...I misunderstood and didn't realize I would have to sit for an hour and a half sales pitch on the incredible Kirby vacuum cleaner. I made the boys lunch and the guy showed me all the crap his INCREDIBLE machine could pick up. We have a Dyson vacuum and I always thought we had "the vacuum" to have. But I must admit the Kirby does it all and even after vacuuming a spot 50 times with our vacuum...yes I had to do that folks...Mr. Kirby could still pick up a load of crap. To make a long story short after an hour and a half and feeling sheepish for saying yes because I was saying no, he left. He did a great job but wasn't the best salesman since he left out his sheet that told him what to say so while he was busy I was reading ahead thinking up my excuses.

This is it people! DO NOT COME KNOCKING ON MY DOOR! I must have idiot on my forehead from noon to 3 each day when I am just home with my boys...twiddling my fingers waiting for someone to come give me a sales pitch. I did call Ed and okay that I get our carpet cleaned...he said, "go for it if I wanted to be pestered for the next year saying no to different things. " He knew, and he probably chuckled all afternoon. The thing is, he has just as hard a time saying no as me. Next time honey, just say no! Tell me to just say no!

Moving on with the day and...
Nope, didn't buy the Kirby for $2,895 + tax. Even though Charley said I should just get it and tell daddy. He wouldn't mind. Oh! Wait! They would have sold it to me on the spot for $1,800.00....hmmm...interested. I can send them your direction!

My front room carpet does look damn good!

#2 Grace in Small Things

1. Meal group (Thanks Paula, for dinner tonight!)
2. Rainy afternoons -cozy dark houses.
3. Banana bread baking in the oven.
4. Charley attempting to clean up his toys - good try buddy!
5. Henry sitting in his booster for meal time - we're a family!

Alone time....who knew....

Charley had a new friend over today, spur of the moment. And they were back playing in our toy/ guest room (we basically moved a lot of our toys in there and removed the door. No more worries about privacy issues with his lady friends or doors slamming on Hank's little fingers. )

His little friend was doing her thing and he was playing with some stuffed dogs. And she came over by him and I heard him say this....

Charley said, "These are the dogs and you can't play with them right now."
New friend responds, "But I am going to play with you now."
Charley explains, "But not with the dogs right now. They are having alone time."
Charley firmly repeats, "I said, not with the dogs. They. are. having. alone. time."

Hmmmmmm....if I had known that Charley knew what alone time was....

I can already see the possibilities....
Charley repeating, "Mama, Mama, Mama! Are you done yet?"
Mama responding, "Just a second, I am going to the bathroom. I am having alone time."

Alone time...the possibilities are endless.

Doctor! Doctor!

Today Charley's challenge was to be Dr. Charley. He had some patients that had lost body parts. (I cut out people in magazines and trimmed a body part or two off each one.) He had to find the body parts and glue them back together. It was great!

I could see him enjoying making silly people and mismatching the body parts too....hmmmm...maybe tomorrow!

Doctor! Doctor!

Today Charley's challenge was to be Dr. Charley. He had some patients that had lost body parts. (I cut out people in magazines and trimmed a body part or two off each one) He had to find the body parts and glue them back together. It was great!

I could see him enjoying making silly people and mismatching the body parts too....hmmmm...maybe tomorrow!

#1 Grace in Small Things

1. Charley taking my hand without asking in a parking lot.
2. 2 boys napping for a half hour at the same time!
3. good friends to touch base with on ichat during the day
4. Henry's 17 month old bare feet slapping on our hardwood floors!

5. The anticipation of becoming an aunt to my sister's baby

Family picture...

So we got our family picture taken this weekend. And the gal that did it posts a few of the pictures right away on her blog. So you can go there to get a peek at a few before she plays around with touching up....air brushing - haha! Just kidding!

I love that Ed and I seem pretty happy and I love the one of Henry in the wagon. I think that Charley by the tree...is a hint at what senior pictures could look like for him ;)

Grace in Small Things

I read a blog or two and they have been doing Grace in Small Things for a while now. I enjoy hearing what little things they think of from day to day that they appreciate, find meaningful, or are thankful for. I don't think they do it every day but they do it from time to time. The original gal who came up with this had the goal of daily. I have not followed her blog so I do not know if she has been successful with the daily goal. But I am going to try and do it often (not necessarily every day)....I will try and post 5 things that have graced my life. Kind of like a gratitude journal. Feel free to comment with five things that graced your life. I find when I read their five things I realize that I am thankful for very similar little things.

To many more...

This weekend was like the first weekend of summer....well kind of. Just like this is the first bloom on this plant on our front walk. To many more beautiful summer weekends!

Priceless

A sponge +
A bucket+
A spray bottle +
Some baby shampoo+
the pool from Charley's first summer of fun!+
some water from the hose!

= a fun Sunday morning and a spectacular Sunday afternoon!

This morning we planned on filling our pool (yes, this pool is on it's fifth summer!) and before we knew what was happening Charley appeared in his swimsuit! Running full force! AHHHHH! It was cold! The plan had been to let the water warm all day and hit it after Henry's nap! The morning was spent washing the Cozy Coup....and puttering around in the pool a bit. Charley and I headed to the movie UP around lunch hour while Ed put Henry down for a nap. Loved the movie- great messages for adults! When we returned it was time for the pool again. Henry even got in and played. Charley and I played toss the sponge, sponge tag, and more. It was a really fun time. The best was every time Henry picked up the spray bottle and without meaning to always had it aimed at me. And since I was sitting in the lawn chair being lifeguard it hit me right in the face! I couldn't help but squeal and laugh! Loving the summer on Sundays.

Summer Saturdays - leave a smile on our faces!

A Super Sunny Summer Saturday was in their near future...


We kicked off our day getting a family picture taken by a woman who is starting a photography business...can't really say how it went until we see some pictures. But, I found it easy to smile, Charley did great, Henry was happy but wouldn't sit still...and Ed just kept smiling.

Then we headed out to run some much needed errands where we were unfortunately hit by a mustang in a parking lot that left a hefty mark on my car. UGH! But we didn't let it bring us down.

We headed home for baseball in the yard with Charley's new left handed mitt and Tee. Henry took a nice nap, Daddy mowed, Charley did the slip and slide for the first time this summer, and mama puttered around with different things. Then both boys hung out in the sandbox. Bedtime soon! It was a great day.