I'm changing things up. This is no longer a blog for my family. Nope. Everyone always tells me - "take time for yourself"..."do something for yourself"..."keep something for yourself"...
So this is mine. This blog is alllll miiiiine. To write whatever the hell I please. Don't have to talk about kids, or husbands, or being a mom, or anything. I can vent. I can be funny. I can be vulgar if I choose. I can post pictures, or stories, or poems, or just really freakin' funny stuff that I find elsewhere.
I've been following the blogosphere for a bit of time now, and realize that my favorites are written by people who don't necessarily follow any particular theme all the time. They write what they want, when the urge moves them. Don't get me wrong, I love the advice, fashion, craft and most definitely, the wine blogs. But for me...for what I feel like doing...I'm going to just go along with my gut. Whatever moves me. Whatever floats my boat. I've never been good at keeping up with this blog, so maybe this will change things up a little. Perhaps it'll motivate me a little more.
And maybe, just maybe...if you're lucky...I'll post a picture or two of my kiddos and Clark Kent lookalike husband and let you know how they're surviving.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Monday, April 5, 2010
22 Things I've Learned as a Mother
This blog entry has been going around for a month or two now, and I just love reading them all...because I can relate. So here's my list of the 22 (plus a thousand!) things I've learned since becoming a mom to my two beautiful daughters. Most are on the lighter side, but you moms will be able to decipher the important messages from all of them.
1. Before kids (BK), I didn't realize how selfish I was. Now, I understand and I sometimes MISS being able to be selfish...just a little.
2. Hands aren't your only "hands." So are your feet/toes, mouth, butt, knees.
3. Showers are luxuries.
4. It's okay to leave your kids with a babysitter for a few hours on the weekend - even if they've been in day care all week.
5. I understand now why women get boob jobs.
6. The 5-second rule stands, and can be extended to 10- or 15-seconds if necessary.
7. There's nothing better than the smell of an infant's freshly bathed skin/hair. There's not much worse than the smell of baby vomit.
8. There's nothing better than the sound of a sleeping child's breath.
9. A clean house is NOT important. However, a husband cleaning a house is great foreplay.
10. Pizza IS a balanced meal.
11. "Perfect" comes in many forms.
12. Children can be teachers - I've learned some of my biggest life-lessons from my girls.
13. Santa is a great parenting tool. Turns out "he's watching" alllllll the time.
14. Expensive toys are never as much fun as tupperware, pots, and pans stacked neatly in a cabinet.
15. Snacks = Sanity.
16. Toddlers always have to pee after the snowsuit, hat, mittens, scarve, and boots are on...ALWAYS.
17. Bribery works. But so does offering choice.
18. Balance is essential - and the hardest part of my life to perfect.
19. Couch cushions make awesome castles, forts, trampolines, beds, and punching bags - as well as the best place to nap with your child on your belly.
20. Some days going to my office can be just as good as a day at the beach.
21. Youth IS wasted on the naive - and I wanna go back.
22. I am a GREAT mom.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Things that aren't toys:
The dog food/water bowls
Tampons
The toilet brush
The humidifier
The dog's tail (or feet or ears or hair)
Daddy's glasses
Anya's ponytail
Sharpie's
The dishwasher
The one electrical outlet I forgot to plug
Toilets
Stairs
Wire hangers
Door locks
The washer or dryer (inside or out)
Remote controls
The volume knob on the stereo
Dog Bones
Mommy's textbooks
Dirty underwear
Toilet paper
Oh hell. Fine. Have it.
Tampons
The toilet brush
The humidifier
The dog's tail (or feet or ears or hair)
Daddy's glasses
Anya's ponytail
Sharpie's
The dishwasher
The one electrical outlet I forgot to plug
Toilets
Stairs
Wire hangers
Door locks
The washer or dryer (inside or out)
Remote controls
The volume knob on the stereo
Dog Bones
Mommy's textbooks
Dirty underwear
Toilet paper
Oh hell. Fine. Have it.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Dear Sonja,
Happy Birthday, my beautiful, sweet, kind, loving baby girl. Your birthday was over a week ago, but today is the anniversary of what I like to think of as your second birth date.
On November 9th, You were born into my arms, the most beautiful creature I've ever seen. I have never witnessed such wonder as I did that day. And I never could have imagined what was about to happen.
Oh, my sweet baby, you were so sick and we didn't know it. When the doctors told us, I still couldn't believe it. How could such a perfect child be so stricken? But they were right. And I had to let go of you, give you to them, so they could save you.
We were so scared, confused, sad, angry, hopeless at times. But when we looked at you, you gave us strength. YOU were strong...how could we not be? Your courage gave us hope. Your family and friends picked us up and carried us, cradled us, loved us so that we could be stronger for you.
For days we sat with you, by your crib, held you when we could. We talked and sang to you for hours upon hours, through the days and into the nights. We laid our hands upon you so you could feel us. You were surrounded by family, friends, strangers and caregivers who sent you great amounts of love and strength for the days and weeks you were about to endure. You didn't know it then, and you might not know it now, but you are the most loved child on this earth.
On this day, one year ago, the nurses put you in my arms one last time before they took you from me for the last time. I whispered to you, "be strong," while I was crumbling inside and out. I kissed you. Then I sent you with the doctors so you could be saved.
For 6 hours we waited for you to return to us. We knew you would. There was no other option. We put your tiny little heart into the hands of the most amazing doctor in the world - at least he is to us. Your heart, the size of a robin's egg, and even more delicate was now in the hands of a man we had never met before you were born. I remember staring at those hands, surely too large for a procedure like this. We were trusting this man with your life...our lives. And he saved you. He saved us. He gave you a new life.
On this day, one year ago, a doctor we had never met gave us a second chance. And you've never looked back.
My sweet Sonja, you are the love of my life. You've left an imprint on this world that will never be erased. Your joy fills every room you visit. Your smile brings sunshine to a dark day. And your heart, your tiny little heart that was once broken, is filled with abundant love and happiness.
There is this verse in one of my favorite songs that will always remind me of my love for you:
Love and happiness to you always, my beautiful baby.
On November 9th, You were born into my arms, the most beautiful creature I've ever seen. I have never witnessed such wonder as I did that day. And I never could have imagined what was about to happen.
Oh, my sweet baby, you were so sick and we didn't know it. When the doctors told us, I still couldn't believe it. How could such a perfect child be so stricken? But they were right. And I had to let go of you, give you to them, so they could save you.
We were so scared, confused, sad, angry, hopeless at times. But when we looked at you, you gave us strength. YOU were strong...how could we not be? Your courage gave us hope. Your family and friends picked us up and carried us, cradled us, loved us so that we could be stronger for you.
For days we sat with you, by your crib, held you when we could. We talked and sang to you for hours upon hours, through the days and into the nights. We laid our hands upon you so you could feel us. You were surrounded by family, friends, strangers and caregivers who sent you great amounts of love and strength for the days and weeks you were about to endure. You didn't know it then, and you might not know it now, but you are the most loved child on this earth.
On this day, one year ago, the nurses put you in my arms one last time before they took you from me for the last time. I whispered to you, "be strong," while I was crumbling inside and out. I kissed you. Then I sent you with the doctors so you could be saved.
For 6 hours we waited for you to return to us. We knew you would. There was no other option. We put your tiny little heart into the hands of the most amazing doctor in the world - at least he is to us. Your heart, the size of a robin's egg, and even more delicate was now in the hands of a man we had never met before you were born. I remember staring at those hands, surely too large for a procedure like this. We were trusting this man with your life...our lives. And he saved you. He saved us. He gave you a new life.
On this day, one year ago, a doctor we had never met gave us a second chance. And you've never looked back.
My sweet Sonja, you are the love of my life. You've left an imprint on this world that will never be erased. Your joy fills every room you visit. Your smile brings sunshine to a dark day. And your heart, your tiny little heart that was once broken, is filled with abundant love and happiness.
There is this verse in one of my favorite songs that will always remind me of my love for you:
You will always have a lucky star
That shines because of what you are
Even in the deepest dark
Because your aim is true
And if i could only have one wish
Darling, then it would be this
Love and happiness for you
Love and happiness to you always, my beautiful baby.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Dear Universe:
when did I become so lame? I mean really, I used to be fun! Energetic! Enthused! Adventurous! This weekend you gave me a chance to spend 24 uninterrupted hours with my husband, away from the kids, and all I wanted to do was sleep...and then get back to the kids! What cruel irony.
Is there a way to get my "old self" back, within the framework of my current life? Will my wild-n-crazy fun side ever come back for a visit? Lately, my version of what's "fun" is planning a 1st birthday party; going to the pumpkin patch in Denver; staying up until 10p to be able to watch Grey's and Private Practice. Friday and Saturday nights are reduced to seeing how quickly we can get to bed to catch up on rest from the week. Didn't it used to be the other way around???
Speaking of my "old self", can you do anything about the wrinkles forming around my eyes, forehead, mouth? Can you help a little with the jiggleinthemiddle that's formed after the babes? A little lift here and there wouldn't hurt - "the girls" have really taken a hit from the breastfeeding & pumping! Hey, remember when I had great boobs?
Oh, Universe, your cruel ways. Are you trying to teach me a lesson? Yes, it's all worth it. Yes, I love my family. Yes, I would do it all over again in a heartbeat to have my babies. Yes, I'd sacrifice even more to have a healthy and happy family, as I do today. And yes, I'm even starting to miss the sleepless nights holding and rocking my precious bundles back to sleep. But seriously, I'm missing all the other stuff too - like when I wasn't so lame.
Respectfully yours (I'm afraid),
Amy
Is there a way to get my "old self" back, within the framework of my current life? Will my wild-n-crazy fun side ever come back for a visit? Lately, my version of what's "fun" is planning a 1st birthday party; going to the pumpkin patch in Denver; staying up until 10p to be able to watch Grey's and Private Practice. Friday and Saturday nights are reduced to seeing how quickly we can get to bed to catch up on rest from the week. Didn't it used to be the other way around???
Speaking of my "old self", can you do anything about the wrinkles forming around my eyes, forehead, mouth? Can you help a little with the jiggleinthemiddle that's formed after the babes? A little lift here and there wouldn't hurt - "the girls" have really taken a hit from the breastfeeding & pumping! Hey, remember when I had great boobs?
Oh, Universe, your cruel ways. Are you trying to teach me a lesson? Yes, it's all worth it. Yes, I love my family. Yes, I would do it all over again in a heartbeat to have my babies. Yes, I'd sacrifice even more to have a healthy and happy family, as I do today. And yes, I'm even starting to miss the sleepless nights holding and rocking my precious bundles back to sleep. But seriously, I'm missing all the other stuff too - like when I wasn't so lame.
Respectfully yours (I'm afraid),
Amy
Monday, September 14, 2009
If I had more time...
I'd (in no particular order):
1. Blog more - this is not the first on my list of priorities, but I know many of you would like more frequent updates on the girls/us. I can't believe my last post was in June! Ugh.
2. Read more - my list of "books to read" is growing and sadly I haven't been able to check any off.
3. Clean & organize - how do 4 people make such a mess? I'll have the house clean and within 30 minutes it will look like tornado alley! And with the girls growing like weeds, I'm constantly circulating the clothes!
4. Cook more. I miss cooking fun, gourmet meals. I love trying new recipes and haven't had time to experiment.
5. Play outside more - The leaves are changing. The air is crisp. I need to get out on a hike in the aspens. I love this time of year when you look up through a canopy of yellow and see smidgeons of blue sky and the sparkling light.
6. Learn to sew.
7. Make more progress on my Master's degree (though that would defeat the whole "if-I-had-more-time" thing). I'm slowly plugging away. One class at a time.
8. Write more letters to friends & relatives I haven't caught up with.
9. Make more phonecalls - see #8.
10. Learn a new crafty hobby.
11. Learn how an engine works.
12. Do a 2-week long road trip throughout Colorado. I've lived here for close to 10 years and still have so much exploring to do!
13. Go on lots more vacations. I guess that takes more $ in addition to time, but as long as I'm dreaming I'll add it to the list!
14. Read to my kids more.
15. Spend more time with my kids - in general.
16. Spend more time with my husband - in general.
17. Pay more attention to making myself up in the morning.
18. Play more Sudoku and Mahjong.
19. Practice more yoga.
20. Take more photos and make photo albums.
1. Blog more - this is not the first on my list of priorities, but I know many of you would like more frequent updates on the girls/us. I can't believe my last post was in June! Ugh.
2. Read more - my list of "books to read" is growing and sadly I haven't been able to check any off.
3. Clean & organize - how do 4 people make such a mess? I'll have the house clean and within 30 minutes it will look like tornado alley! And with the girls growing like weeds, I'm constantly circulating the clothes!
4. Cook more. I miss cooking fun, gourmet meals. I love trying new recipes and haven't had time to experiment.
5. Play outside more - The leaves are changing. The air is crisp. I need to get out on a hike in the aspens. I love this time of year when you look up through a canopy of yellow and see smidgeons of blue sky and the sparkling light.
6. Learn to sew.
7. Make more progress on my Master's degree (though that would defeat the whole "if-I-had-more-time" thing). I'm slowly plugging away. One class at a time.
8. Write more letters to friends & relatives I haven't caught up with.
9. Make more phonecalls - see #8.
10. Learn a new crafty hobby.
11. Learn how an engine works.
12. Do a 2-week long road trip throughout Colorado. I've lived here for close to 10 years and still have so much exploring to do!
13. Go on lots more vacations. I guess that takes more $ in addition to time, but as long as I'm dreaming I'll add it to the list!
14. Read to my kids more.
15. Spend more time with my kids - in general.
16. Spend more time with my husband - in general.
17. Pay more attention to making myself up in the morning.
18. Play more Sudoku and Mahjong.
19. Practice more yoga.
20. Take more photos and make photo albums.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Tube-less!
For the first time since she was one day old, Sonja is tube-, wire-, and medication-free!!! On Friday, we had our last scheduled procedure at The Children's Hospital - Sonja's G-tube removal! It wasn't much of a "procedure" at all...more of a 10-minute clinic appointment to do something I could've done at home. Nonetheless, we made it a big deal. After all, this is a HUGE milestone.Maybe more exciting than the procedure itself was the fact that Sonja weighed-in at over 14 lbs! My little chunky-monkey is growing faster than we could have imagined! The baby fat is everywhere!!! Her chubby little thighs are practically the size of my forearms. She has what Brian likes to call "Cafeteria-lady arms". And her cheeks look like they are constantly stuffed with marshmallows!
Oh, and my dear little Anya, who is in the throws of 3-year-old-hood. She can have me laughing and then crying in a matter of minutes...literally. The girl is capable of commanding an army while at the same time wrapping her father around her pinky finger. Her negotiation skills are extraordinary. Without a doubt she'll make a fine lawyer one day. Either that or she'll be a finalist on American Idol soon - we had a dance party in the living room the other night. She's got some impressive moves.
The summertime brings joys in and of itself. We have baby birds in the birdhouse that Anya is infatuated with. We make sure to FILL the birdfeeder (even though not totally empty) each night per chance that the baby birdies will go hungry overnight. Anya picks me flowers every day. Moving, even though they're dandelions. Sonja can now sit upright in her stroller so we've enjoyed several walks around town, the farmers' market, the park, etc. And the weather's even been kind enough to allow us some dinners and lunches out on the patio. I haven't found enough time to get out into my garden much this summer. So I've hired someone to come do some cleanup for me, which will make the view even lovelier, I'm sure (at least that's how I've justified it to Brian!).
Picture of the sunset in our backyard.
We're in big-time training mode for the Courage Classic benefitting The Children's Hospital. Our team to this point has raised almost $6,000 towards our $10,000 goal! Yay team! We've really been moved by the outpouring of support by folks. We are blessed to have such close family and friends. Here's a picture of some of us on a training ride at the top of Vail Pass in our new jerseys!
So, that's about it. Loving the kids. Loving the summer. Loving life in general.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
In My 30's...
Well, tomorrow I'll officially be "in my 30's." Ugh. Let's not talk about that though. What's more interesting are these things:
- Anya turned 3 on April 18th. She is now a "big girl" and makes sure to mention so when she's going potty. "Mommy, I'm a big girl now. Shut the door all the way because I need my 'pribacy'."
- Sonja turned 1/2-year-old this past Saturday. We celebrated with a big bike ride and margaritas in Fruita. Ok, she didn't have the margarita...I did.
- Mother's Day was Sunday and I got 2 great presents - Sonja slept through the night AND she rolled over for the first time!
- We've been on 2 road trips in 2 weekends. One to Buena Vista with our friends, Ram & Jean Mikulas. The weather wasn't spectacular, but the riding & hot springs were fun. It was just really nice to get out of town. The second was to Fruita this past weekend. My folks got to join us so my mom & I got to celebrate Mother's Day together!
- We've started training and fundraising for the 2009 Courage Classic. Our team, Sonja's Soldiers, has raised over $3,000 so far! Even better, an old friend of mine from high school, Natascha Corbett, offered to and did a spectacular job at designing our team logo.
Isn't it great??? It's going on our team's jerseys. Natascha is a very talented graphic designer and artist out of Atlanta. You can see some of her work at http://www.nafadesigns.com/ and http://corbettphotos.com/gallery/8117005_MmH56/1/529194673_Q4xmv .
- Our local newspaper wrote a very nice article about our family. You can view it here: http://www.summitdaily.com/article/20090505/NEWS/905049958/1078&ParentProfile=1055
Gosh, I could write so much more, but I'll save some for later posts. Stay tuned!!!
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Rice is constipating!!!
Sonja had her first taste of rice cereal yesterday. Most of it ended up on her NY Mets bib, but she sure was excited about it. She kept pulling my hands toward her and gnawing on the spoon! Having her so interested in food keeps us hopeful that someday soon she will be off the feeding tube.
Boy is she constipated though...not that she ate enough rice to make a difference. The poor thing turns purple trying to push! I know, I know. That's about the last thing you want to read about Sonja, but hey, we don't ever talk much about anything other than eating and pooping in a house with a baby, a toddler, and a huge dog!!!
I'll post the pictures and video of Sonja eating as soon as I can.
Oh, and Anya's saying "dammit" now. It's very difficult not to react to a soon-to-be 3 year-old whispering "dammit" under her breath as she's trying to open the difficult lid to her Play-Doh. I almost pee'd in my pants trying to hold in my laughter. When she looked up and found me crying, she asked "What's wrong, Mommy?" This is what makes parenting so enjoyable!
Boy is she constipated though...not that she ate enough rice to make a difference. The poor thing turns purple trying to push! I know, I know. That's about the last thing you want to read about Sonja, but hey, we don't ever talk much about anything other than eating and pooping in a house with a baby, a toddler, and a huge dog!!!
I'll post the pictures and video of Sonja eating as soon as I can.
Oh, and Anya's saying "dammit" now. It's very difficult not to react to a soon-to-be 3 year-old whispering "dammit" under her breath as she's trying to open the difficult lid to her Play-Doh. I almost pee'd in my pants trying to hold in my laughter. When she looked up and found me crying, she asked "What's wrong, Mommy?" This is what makes parenting so enjoyable!
Thursday, March 5, 2009
And We Ride!!!
We have set up a team for the Courage Classic 2009 bike ride!!! This 3-day ride at the end of July is a major fundraiser for The Children's Hospital in Denver, CO...the place we lived for the first month of Sonja's life. We've just assembled the team online so we're busy writing Sonja's story, posting pictures, and getting everyone individually set up. Check out http://www.couragetours.com/, click on "Ride", click on "Find a team" and type in "Copper Mountain" (our temporary team name until we pick a new one). You'll see our team fundraising goal of $10,000, be able to see each rider's individual pages, and track our progress. Our friends have been fabulous...they've really helped convince us to do this and they've agreed to support us by either riding on the team of donating individually. I think we've got five riders already signed up!!! It's thrilling to see so much continued support from everyone, and I think that this ride will be very moving. It brings thousands of riders to the rocky mountain trails, roads, and highways...many of whom have been past patients, patients' families and friends, and just plain supporters of this amazing hospital. Please, if you can, please help us reach our fundraising goals. You all know why we're doing this. You all know how incredible a place The Children's Hospital was and is for us. We are able to celebrate each day with Sonja because of the wonderful people that work there. Help us give back what we can. Stay tuned... Story about former patients and riders who raise money and bike 157 miles for The Children's Hospital. | |
| © 2009 YouTube, LLC | |
And we RIDE!!!
We have set up a team for the Courage Classic 2009 bike ride!!! This 3-day ride at the end of July is a major fundraiser for The Children's Hospital in Denver, CO...the place we lived for the first month of Sonja's life. We've just assembled the team online so we're busy writing Sonja's story, posting pictures, and getting everyone individually set up. Check out http://www.couragetours.com/sonjasmom - that's my rider page. You can also click on Copper Mountain - Sonja's Soldiers to view our team fundraising efforts and all the team members (15 so far!). Our team goal is $10,000 and we're already above $3,000!
It's thrilling to see so much continued support from everyone, and I think that this ride will be very moving. It brings thousands of riders to the rocky mountain trails, roads, and highways...many of whom have been past patients, patients' families and friends, and just plain supporters of this amazing hospital.
Please, if you can, please help us reach our fundraising goals. You all know why we're doing this. You all know how incredible a place The Children's Hospital was and is for us. We are able to celebrate each day with Sonja because of the wonderful people that work there. Help us give back what we can.
Stay tuned...
It's thrilling to see so much continued support from everyone, and I think that this ride will be very moving. It brings thousands of riders to the rocky mountain trails, roads, and highways...many of whom have been past patients, patients' families and friends, and just plain supporters of this amazing hospital.
Please, if you can, please help us reach our fundraising goals. You all know why we're doing this. You all know how incredible a place The Children's Hospital was and is for us. We are able to celebrate each day with Sonja because of the wonderful people that work there. Help us give back what we can.
Stay tuned...
Saturday, February 28, 2009
It's March? Already?
Tomorrow is March 1. St. Patrick's Day, March Madness, warmer winter days, daylight savings. I can't believe we've already gone through January and February. Gosh, how time is flying.
Things are a little crazy in our household right now. I'm trying to start getting back to work, which has been quite a challenge as we had to let our first nanny go...just didn't work out. It's taken a while for us to find a new one, but I think we're almost there. I plan on going back to work about 3 days/week for now. I'll start with that and see how I/we all do. Right now I have no idea how we're going to work it all out, but we always seem to find a way.
Sonja is doing really well. She had an aorta-plasty back in January. The docs found a narrowing in her heart again that they decided to do the catheter procedure. So far, so good. It seems to have worked, at least in the short term. We were just at the cardiologists last week and they are really pleased with her progress. No more cardiac visits for 3 months! She's gained a ton of weight...10 lbs 8 oz! She's on the growth charts! She's starting to get those Michelin Man rolls on her arms and legs. Chipmunk cheeks. And no, she hasn't lost that hair!
Developmentally, she's about a month behind, but the therapists all say that's probably due to the fact she spent her 1st month in a hospital bed. So really, she's right on track. She's progressing the way she should be. She's doing great on her belly. She's starting to pull her knees to her chest. She puts everything she can get her hands on into her mouth. And her smile melts everyones' hearts!
And as for Anya, well what can I say. She's the light of my life. I can't believe sometimes that she's only going to be 3. She acts so much older. She has us in stitches every day. Her new loves are playing dress-up and "cooking" us breakfast and coffee. She says "I love you as high as my hands can reach!" And oh...SHE SKIS!!! Our little ski bunny. She absolutely loves it. She's Daddy's pride & joy. Her birthday is coming up on April 18th so I think we'll plan a pool party at the rec center.
Brian is doing great. He's still loving his job. It's very challenging, but in a really good, productive way. Somehow he's finding a way to get out on the mountain a couple times/week. He's also been doing a lot of skate skiing to stay in shape (I've been chasing after kids to keep my figure!)
I was able to see my folks for a couple weeks down in Tucson. It was my maiden voyage flying with Sonja and went without a hitch. It was my first big item on my "try to be normal to-do list". A few extra challenges, but it felt good to be able to do it. Sonja and I got outside for some exercise almost every day. And having dinner cooked for me every night was heaven!!!
I only have a little time today, so just wanted to post everyone on some of the particulars. I'll try to be in touch soon! Take care,
Amy
Things are a little crazy in our household right now. I'm trying to start getting back to work, which has been quite a challenge as we had to let our first nanny go...just didn't work out. It's taken a while for us to find a new one, but I think we're almost there. I plan on going back to work about 3 days/week for now. I'll start with that and see how I/we all do. Right now I have no idea how we're going to work it all out, but we always seem to find a way.
Sonja is doing really well. She had an aorta-plasty back in January. The docs found a narrowing in her heart again that they decided to do the catheter procedure. So far, so good. It seems to have worked, at least in the short term. We were just at the cardiologists last week and they are really pleased with her progress. No more cardiac visits for 3 months! She's gained a ton of weight...10 lbs 8 oz! She's on the growth charts! She's starting to get those Michelin Man rolls on her arms and legs. Chipmunk cheeks. And no, she hasn't lost that hair!
Developmentally, she's about a month behind, but the therapists all say that's probably due to the fact she spent her 1st month in a hospital bed. So really, she's right on track. She's progressing the way she should be. She's doing great on her belly. She's starting to pull her knees to her chest. She puts everything she can get her hands on into her mouth. And her smile melts everyones' hearts!
And as for Anya, well what can I say. She's the light of my life. I can't believe sometimes that she's only going to be 3. She acts so much older. She has us in stitches every day. Her new loves are playing dress-up and "cooking" us breakfast and coffee. She says "I love you as high as my hands can reach!" And oh...SHE SKIS!!! Our little ski bunny. She absolutely loves it. She's Daddy's pride & joy. Her birthday is coming up on April 18th so I think we'll plan a pool party at the rec center.
Brian is doing great. He's still loving his job. It's very challenging, but in a really good, productive way. Somehow he's finding a way to get out on the mountain a couple times/week. He's also been doing a lot of skate skiing to stay in shape (I've been chasing after kids to keep my figure!)
I was able to see my folks for a couple weeks down in Tucson. It was my maiden voyage flying with Sonja and went without a hitch. It was my first big item on my "try to be normal to-do list". A few extra challenges, but it felt good to be able to do it. Sonja and I got outside for some exercise almost every day. And having dinner cooked for me every night was heaven!!!
I only have a little time today, so just wanted to post everyone on some of the particulars. I'll try to be in touch soon! Take care,
Amy
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Happy New Year, Everyone
Happy 2009, all. 2008 certainly was a year, wasn't it? In the Waldes' lives: I got pregnant (on our own!) and turned 30; Brian got a great new job with the Town of Breckenridge; I was promoted to Director of Finance at TKC; Anya celebrated her 2nd birthday; Brian and I celebrated our 5th wedding anniversary; we had a GREAT trip with the Mikulas' to Sayulita, Mexico; and we were blessed with the birth of our 2nd daugher, Sonja.
What an exciting election year as well! Go, Obama!!! This was the first election that we can remember really being grossly invested in. I watched more political "talk-shows" than I ever thought I was capable of. I am so filled with hope and anticipation for this president. He certainly has a big walk to walk, and I hope he can do it. At the very least I can say that my daughters' futures are a bit safer and protected with this incoming administration. Maybe not monetarily (but maybe so), but I got really worried when crazy Palin thought she was going to jump into office and think she was going to help overturn Roe v. Wade. Ugh. CRAZY!
What else...well, of course 2008 is also a year we'd like to put behind us, with everything we've gone through these past 2 months. I never in a million years thought that we'd be "those people" with the sick or disabled kid. Well, now we are, and we're adjusting. It's hard. It's not fun. I wish so badly some days that we could have just had a "normal" baby, but this is our new normal. I keep telling myself that this is the only thing we'll know in the future, therefore it is our normal. It's hard to get past the unknown, though. I'd say that's the hardest part of all of this, is that there's still so much out there in Sonja's future (and ours) that we don't know. But then again, I'm a control freak who likes to have everything laid out in front of me so I can plan. That's just not in the cards for me this time. We'll roll with the punches...all of them; and we'll keep going through our "normal".
2008 was a year in which we truly realized how blessed we are. We have the most amazing family and friends. I don't know what we'd do without them. Our parents and sisters, our friends in Summit County and across the country and world. They are all amazing people. We are surrounded by their love, without which we would never have survived the heartache we endured this year. Thank you, and we love you all back.
Here's what we're looking forward to in 2009: more birthdays (Anya's 3rd, Sonja's 1st), anniversaries, fewer doctors appointments, maybe a vacation or two, Easter, 4th of July, Thanksgiving and Christmas (with palm trees?!). Skiing with Brian and Anya, the smell of spring, warm summer days and the changing aspen leaves in fall. The Dillon farmer's market. Our annual bike trip to Crested Butte. Margaritas at the tiki bar ('cause I can indulge again!!!) and a hot toddy at the ski lodge. Building snow-people families. Seeing family. Going to somo lake. So much to look forward to!
So here's to a happy (ier), healthier, prosperous 2009, everyone.
What an exciting election year as well! Go, Obama!!! This was the first election that we can remember really being grossly invested in. I watched more political "talk-shows" than I ever thought I was capable of. I am so filled with hope and anticipation for this president. He certainly has a big walk to walk, and I hope he can do it. At the very least I can say that my daughters' futures are a bit safer and protected with this incoming administration. Maybe not monetarily (but maybe so), but I got really worried when crazy Palin thought she was going to jump into office and think she was going to help overturn Roe v. Wade. Ugh. CRAZY!
What else...well, of course 2008 is also a year we'd like to put behind us, with everything we've gone through these past 2 months. I never in a million years thought that we'd be "those people" with the sick or disabled kid. Well, now we are, and we're adjusting. It's hard. It's not fun. I wish so badly some days that we could have just had a "normal" baby, but this is our new normal. I keep telling myself that this is the only thing we'll know in the future, therefore it is our normal. It's hard to get past the unknown, though. I'd say that's the hardest part of all of this, is that there's still so much out there in Sonja's future (and ours) that we don't know. But then again, I'm a control freak who likes to have everything laid out in front of me so I can plan. That's just not in the cards for me this time. We'll roll with the punches...all of them; and we'll keep going through our "normal".
2008 was a year in which we truly realized how blessed we are. We have the most amazing family and friends. I don't know what we'd do without them. Our parents and sisters, our friends in Summit County and across the country and world. They are all amazing people. We are surrounded by their love, without which we would never have survived the heartache we endured this year. Thank you, and we love you all back.
Here's what we're looking forward to in 2009: more birthdays (Anya's 3rd, Sonja's 1st), anniversaries, fewer doctors appointments, maybe a vacation or two, Easter, 4th of July, Thanksgiving and Christmas (with palm trees?!). Skiing with Brian and Anya, the smell of spring, warm summer days and the changing aspen leaves in fall. The Dillon farmer's market. Our annual bike trip to Crested Butte. Margaritas at the tiki bar ('cause I can indulge again!!!) and a hot toddy at the ski lodge. Building snow-people families. Seeing family. Going to somo lake. So much to look forward to!
So here's to a happy (ier), healthier, prosperous 2009, everyone.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Christmas 2008
I've been staring at a blank screen for some time now, not knowing where to begin. Most of you know what we've been through the past (almost) 2 months. But to recap, Sonja was born on 11/9, diagnosis of DiGeorge Syndrome with multiple heart defects, open heart surgery on 11/18, and finally home on 12/9 - her 1-month b-day. What a ride it's been.
But most importantly, we were all home on Christmas day. It was perfect. Brian and I made the decision to spoil Anya absolutely rotten. She deserves it with what she's been through. What a day it was for her. We tracked Santa online through Norad's website - gotta love the 21st century. Left cookies and milk for Santa, and carrots for Rudolph. All were consumed by the morning, of course. Anya woke up at 6 a.m. - just after I had finished the 4:30 a.m. Sonja feeding. I was devastated...until she came into our room and just wanted to snuggle together. Miraculously, we all fell back asleep until about 9 when we turned on NPR's airing of David Sedaris' Santaland Diaries. If you've never heard it, PLEASE find it online somewhere. It's been our Xmas tradition to listen to it every year for the past 5 or so years, and it never becomes less funny.
We grabbed the video camera then and caught Anya's reaction to the presents left by Santa under the tree. Again, perfection. We started with the stockings, followed by some small gifts, followed by the grande finale - THE gift from Santa Claus. The only thing Anya asked for from Santa - a Fire Engine. However, Santa not only came through with the engine, but the entire fireHOUSE, complete with fire people, a garage, bunk beds, hoses, a pole for sliding down, a trampoline, shooting water. Oh, what joy to see her playing all day long with it. And almost 2 days later, it hasn't lost its novelty. I'm sure by next Christmas, this firehouse will be a long lost memory, but for now it's such a pleasure seeing my daughter engage in such creative imaginary play. She is amazing.
So the gifts of the year:
Anya - the firehouse
Sonja - the Baby Einstein play gym
Brian - might be the Zombie Survival Guide from Ram & Jean
Amy - my beloved Frye Veronica Slouch boots - I'm sleeping with them at night and wearing them even in my pj's. Beautiful creations.
A belated Merry Christmas to all of you, my friends and family. I'm sorry we've been quite out of touch lately, but now more than ever I can actually say without much guilt that we have a good excuse!
With love,
Amy, Brian, Anya, Sonja, and Maddie
Thursday, October 30, 2008
My Little Punkin'
It's just too fun. It's like reliving my youth through my daughter. I haven't carved a pumpkin in years! I can't remember the last time I went trick-or-treating! I can still remember the words to "Five Little Pumpkins" and am now reading it nightly to Anya. It's so much fun. As adults, we forget how important it is and how good it feels to tune in to our young selves. It was a time full of smiles, laughter, and wonder. Wouldn't it be great to go back there? (I'm hoping for lots of Twix & 3Musketeers tomorrow night!)
Monday, October 27, 2008
Some pics & movies
Here are some pics that we thought you'd enjoy! The first is of Anya & Dad carving pumpkins together. The second is of us after the first "big snow" of the year at the top of Loveland Pass. And finally, just for you, Mom, is Anya performing "Here I Stand..."
Enjoy!
That's right folks. Our very own Sarah Heartburn!!!
She'll be comin' 'round the mountain...when she comes!
Hello friends and family! Welcome to our first posting to our new blog, "Happily Delirious"! We thought this would be an easy, fun, and cheap way to keep everyone posted on what's going on in our lives...all 4.5 of us (Maddie gets the .5).
Well, I'm about 2 1/2 weeks from my due date, and got a little nervous over the weekend thinking that our little girl #2 was trying to make her debut. Saturday night was a long one, filled with numerous, intense contractions. I was finally able to fall asleep around 3am and was only awaken about twice an hour after that. Sunday and today have been much quieter so far, so maybe she's just teasing us. I guess she'll come when she's good and ready.
We're just so excited to meet her. This time around is so different. There's just no fear or apprehension - well, maybe a little, but it's a different kind. Now we KNOW what we're in for, which is both a blessing and a curse. Anyways, we can't wait to finally have her in our arms (rather than in my belly!). And yes, she has a name...we're just not telling (MOM!!!).
We have been spending lots of time with Anya, who is very excited to meet her baby sister. She's ready to share everything...well, almost everything. She's not letting go of her blankie. I took her swimming on Saturday while Brian did some "nesting" around the house. You should see how clean our fridge and cabinets are!!! Moms, you'd be proud! On Sunday, more nesting, laundry, and Anya got to help carve her first pumpkin! A happy one, not a scary one. Her decision. She wouldn't touch the pumpkin "guts" - "I'll get my hands dirty and it stinks!" she said.
A funny Anya-ism for you all. Last night I found one of my books that she had been playing with with the cover torn off. I brought it to her and asked, "Anya, did you rip Mommy's book?" Without hesitating, Anya replied "Nope. Daddy did it." We're in big trouble.
Well, I'm about 2 1/2 weeks from my due date, and got a little nervous over the weekend thinking that our little girl #2 was trying to make her debut. Saturday night was a long one, filled with numerous, intense contractions. I was finally able to fall asleep around 3am and was only awaken about twice an hour after that. Sunday and today have been much quieter so far, so maybe she's just teasing us. I guess she'll come when she's good and ready.
We're just so excited to meet her. This time around is so different. There's just no fear or apprehension - well, maybe a little, but it's a different kind. Now we KNOW what we're in for, which is both a blessing and a curse. Anyways, we can't wait to finally have her in our arms (rather than in my belly!). And yes, she has a name...we're just not telling (MOM!!!).
We have been spending lots of time with Anya, who is very excited to meet her baby sister. She's ready to share everything...well, almost everything. She's not letting go of her blankie. I took her swimming on Saturday while Brian did some "nesting" around the house. You should see how clean our fridge and cabinets are!!! Moms, you'd be proud! On Sunday, more nesting, laundry, and Anya got to help carve her first pumpkin! A happy one, not a scary one. Her decision. She wouldn't touch the pumpkin "guts" - "I'll get my hands dirty and it stinks!" she said.
A funny Anya-ism for you all. Last night I found one of my books that she had been playing with with the cover torn off. I brought it to her and asked, "Anya, did you rip Mommy's book?" Without hesitating, Anya replied "Nope. Daddy did it." We're in big trouble.
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