Holding The Hand Of God

Merry Christmas

2011-01-11T17:28:00.001-08:00

We had a wonderful Christmas this year as a family of five. Although it was a busy day, we enjoyed the time with our families. We have so much to be grateful for. We want our kids to know the true meaning of Christmas. While gifts are great and Santa Clause is "just for fun, and not real." They know Christmas is celebration of Jesus' birth. What a blessing and awesome feeling as a parent to have children who love God and are excited to learn about Him and know Him!

Happy Birthday Jesus!

Creedyn Taylor Barth

2011-01-11T16:52:00.000-08:00

Creedyn Taylor Barth entered this world November 6, 2010. After 5 short easy hours of labor and 25 min of pushing he made his grand appearance. What a beautiful healthy baby boy! Weighing in at 8lb 9oz and 22in long. Ryan and I are or have adjusted to three kiddos 4 and under. Riley and Brady couldn't be prouder of their baby brother. They are great with him. Holding him is one of their favorite things to do.

Creed is such a good baby. He looks so much like his daddy! (of course) Which then means he looks like Brady and Riley too. Sometimes I find myself calling him Brady. The similarity is crazy. You really cannot tell them apart in baby pictures! Its almost like living life again 4 years ago with Brady as a baby.

Rachel delivered Creedyn. She was amazing! This was the best birth experience I have had yet! I can only hope if we have more babies she will deliver.

A happy daddy! Each new birth is just as exciting as the first!

We are now a Party of Five!

Brady and Rileys first NASCAR race.

2010-06-18T10:30:00.000-07:00

For Ryan's birthday we bought him family tickets to the Michigan Race. It had been several years since he and I last went and I knew Brady would really enjoy it as well.
We went to the truck race on Sat night. Riley enjoyed the first hour quite a bit. She was pretty tuckered out so she had herself a nice nap. When she woke up, well she had had enough! My step dad met us in Angola the next morning and picked her up. So she spent the day with them. Sunday would just have been more than she or I could handle!

Ry's new rule is you MUST be 4 to go to the race. NO exceptions! Hes too funny!

Brady on the other hand throughly enjoyed himself! He has been asking when we get to go back, so it looks like we are headed there again in August! It was nice to just take him on Sunday. He loved all the attention on him...which with two kids doesn't happen alot.

Baby Number 3 Update

2010-06-18T10:19:00.001-07:00

It has been quite some time since I posted on a regular basis! So some of the previous posts were short and sweet. An update on the pregnancy. At the beginning most of you know know or read about the problmes that were going on. About three weeks ago I started having complications again. Very similar to before. Because of the threatend miscarriage earlier I was put on bedrest and then sent in Monday am for another ultrasound.
We had several friends and church family praying for us again. However this time I wasnt "worried." I had an overwhelming peace that all was well! I even told a friend, Kelly that I just knew the baby was ok. During the ultrasound I was diagnosed with partial placenta previa. It is a mild case and should correct itself in 3-4 weeks as baby gets bigger. Here are some photos from that ultrasound.

Yes, for those of you who don't know it is a BOY!

Monday we go to the Dr again for the follow up ultrasound. Once cleared...I will not have to be monitored so closely. I will be sure to post pics next week of the new ultrasound. Im sure he has grown alot. Its hard to believe Im half way through the pregnancy already!

Easter

2010-06-18T10:15:00.000-07:00

We spent Easter this year with the Barth Family at Aunt Nancy's in Milford. The kids really got into the egg hunt!

Happy 2nd Birthday to our Baby Girl!

2010-06-18T10:03:00.000-07:00

God's Mercy

2010-03-22T06:10:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago Tues. I started having some complications with the pregnancy. First I called our friends from church and our prayer chain. Along with family to tell them to add us to prayers immediately. Then I called the Dr. and they asked to see me right away. I was examined and told every "appeared" to be ok. However they still wanted to do blood tests to check some hormone levels. So we did blood tests and I had to go back Thurs for more. I was feeling fine now and no other symptoms. I received a call at 8:30 am Fri. with the results. The Dr. said my levels didn't rise much and she consulted with the other Drs in the practice and they all felt I most likely have a tubal pregnancy.She seemed to prepare me for what to expect with what they anticipated the outcome. She then ordered an ultrasound.I was devastated. I know I had just recently found out I was pregnant, but I bonded immediately with that child in the womb. It's the way God intended I guess. It was hard thinking about losing this child whom I hadn't met. We were scared. I immediately called our church family. We had so many people in constant prayer throughout that week and especially that day. Upon going in to the office Ryan and I were talking about if it is Gods will for this pregnancy to end, we will get through it. As much as I was scared about losing this baby, I was at peace. As we were walking in Ryan goes God is so good isn't he? I thought here we are maybe about ready to get some devastating news and my husband is glorifying God? How awesome is that? How lucky and blessed am I to have such a Godly husband to be praising God right now this minute?!
We go in and wait just shortly. Our ultrasound tech calls us back. We discuss why I'm here and she begins. I'm looking at the screen and she goes there it is. I said the baby's not in my tube? She said no. Of course I begin crying and thanking and praising God for the miracle he had done. The Ultrasound tech says I'm going to check your tubes to make sure there aren't twins and that one is not in the tube, but that is highly unlikely. She checks and my tubes are clear! She says there must have been an error in the blood tests, because she has no way to explain the results. We know what the error is! We have a perfectly healthy baby she says to us. The we see the heart beat and she said its as strong as it gets. We finish our appt with both of us smiling ear to ear for the rest of the day or shall I say we are STILL smiling! We are great now! Almost out of that first trimester which is exciting!

When something seems as though the world is caving in, remember to Praise Him in the storm regardless of the outcome, we had no idea what we were going to be told upon entering the office that day but we continued to praise Him!

Thank you to all who prayed daily and constantly for us. For we know it is the prayers that kept this baby safe!

Surprises

2010-03-22T05:58:00.000-07:00

For about 8 months Ryan and I had been wanting another child so desperately. It was only when we decided to give it ALL to God we got our hearts desire. We sat and had a deep conversation about how we must be going about this all wrong. I mean we were doing every thing right as doctors would tell you, but that was like I said as doctors would tell you. We weren't putting it in Gods hand we were trying to do it our way. In that conversation we said we were done "trying to conceive." If God had a plan for another child right now at this time in our lives we were going to let him give that child to us. That was it. I was at total peace if we were not to have another child, I did still "want" another baby, but i was ok if it was not His will.

Two weeks later I was feeling ill and without telling Ryan I took a test or should I say two tests that showed me God WAS in control. I was pregnant with our third child. It was only when we let Him take the drivers seat could His will be done.

Our new little someone will be entering this world around Nov.9. We have two little kids who are so excited about having another little brother or sister!

Come back in a few days for another testimony on God's grace and Mercy!

Vacation Planning

2010-02-01T10:34:00.000-08:00

We are all stoked about our vacation over the 4th. We are headed to Langhorne PA and to New York City. My brother Josh, Karen and Audrey are going along with us. We will be visiting Sesame Place. It's a Sesame Street Amusement and Water Park. Along with an Aquarium, The Craylola Factory and The Hands on Museum. Its sure to be a good time.

Since Ryan doesn't read my blog...I can spill his Valentines gift. I am planning a short trip to the Michigan race in June. It has been three years since we've gone to a Nascar race and he has been wanting to take Brady so bad.

I also need tips, ideas and suggestions for Disney. It well over a year before we head to Florida,(july 2011) but from what I heard a year is a good amount of time to plan plan plan. We've only been twice but that was without kids, so we need some info!

Art

2010-02-01T10:25:00.000-08:00

My kids love to paint, paint, paint!

Friends

2010-02-01T10:00:00.000-08:00

As most of you know I babysit two little girls on Mondays. They actually live across the road from us. We LOVE those little girls. The oldest one is 2 1/2 and her and Brady play so well with each other. The youngest one is 15 months and her and Riley are now two peas in a pod. (after Riley bit her in the beginning b/c she was jealous) I snapped a few pics the other day and had to post them. I have a feeling the 3 girls are going to be great friends being so close in age and living next to each other. Pushing their babies in strollers is their favorite thing to do here during the day...glad we have 3 strollers!

Happy 4th Birthday Brady!

2010-02-01T09:44:00.000-08:00

Wow, where has the time gone? Brady is now 4. Seems like yesterday we found out we were expecting him, I remember so clearly. He is now in preschool, and growing up so fast.

We had a basketball and soccer themed party. We had most of our family join us as well as a few close friends. Some of his favorite things he received were his new bik.e (that he is dying to go outside and ride...he wants Daddy to take the training wheels off too!) He also loves his tent, as well as his Leapster games. Oh and his savings bonds that both of my grandparents get him...he calls them different kind of money! (so cute) He also received a few cards in the mail with some money. I asked what he wanted to do...he chose to save some, spend some and give some in offering at Champions. I love it! Just like his Dad spending and like Mommy saving! Happy Birthday Son!

Brady,Riley...what are you up to?

2010-01-14T18:21:00.000-08:00

I been thinking. I want to try to blog more. I want to be able to look back at this blog when my kids are older and see what my kids were doing, how they were feeling, what they are learning, how they are growing. I don't want to forget anything! They are already so big. Brady is 4 now. Riley will be two in 3 months. It's just going too fast. So I will be doing "What are you up to?" blogs.

BRADY

*You love animals

*Have your ABC's mastered now, by sight and sound

*Are starting to enjoy preschool

*Love helping me cook, and love watching Giada EVERYDAY! They way you rumble her name off of your tongue cracks me up.

*Your favorite toy is your train table

*Your friend you talk about at school is Angelina

*You want to be an astronaunt

*You NEVER forget to pray before we eat

*Have discovered your "pee hole" in your undies and think it is so cool

*Favorite cartoon is Dora

RILEY

*Are sassy

*Beginning to learn your colors

*Almost potty trained

*You love Veggie Tales

*Your favorite word is AAAAAAmen (with southern accent)

*Love quack quacks!

*Are constantly on your toy phone with Paw Paw

*Love, love, love babies and barbies

*When I ask you who do you love you scream MOMMY

Vacation in Tennessee

2010-01-06T05:18:00.001-08:00

Hi Friends, It has been quite some time since I've posted! It has been on busy and eventfull year to say the least. Our year ended with vacation to Tennessee. I must say it was a VERY needed vacation. We spent just shy of a week in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. The kids enjoyed all the activities we had planned. Brady's was by far a toss up between the Dinosaur Museum and the Dixie Stampede. Riley loved the Stampede! They had their Christmas program and it was AWESOME! Definately a favorite for Ryan and I. Oh did I mention the great food? Thinking about it makes me hungry!

One of the many activites we did was a 5 1/2 mile hike up the Sugarlands Mountains. Yes you read that right. It was in the snow too. Over 5 miles up to the top to see the waterfall. It was beautiful! Well worth the hike! Brady walked all the way up by himself! I was impressed. ( The way down was a bit different Ryan had one on his shoulders and I had the other on mine.) It was a magnificant view! The waterfall on one side and looking down the snowcovered mountain with just a glimpse of the sun going down. We made sure to get plenty of pictures. It was actually our first vacation as a family of 4. One we will all remember. It was so nice to have down time to focus on us as a family, no distractions, no worries.

We also headed to the Ripley's Aquarium in Gatliburg as well as the Rainforest Museum. Both were a big hit for the kids. Brady is such an animal lover so the trip was a blast for him.

Treatment Number 6

2009-09-29T19:28:00.000-07:00

Update on Rileys treatment....As most of you know she is starting to get REALLY clingy lately. I'm sure alot of it is her age and seperation anxiety. However, it gets worse after treatments. So our anesthesiologist suggested that i "try" to help with the mask for anesthesia. To see if it helps her feel not so scared. She fought a bit, but was much calmer than she is if I am not there. So we may try this next time, to see if its better. If not we may give her some "loopy juice" before to calm her down. As for the treatment itself. It went really well for the most part. I think she has had the most fading from this time than any other time! Yea. Dr. said she was at 50% fading. So keep those prayers coming!!! We are scheduled to go back in 3 weeks. Providing she heals well and has no problems. So far so good! I do have a specific request. Her chin is being stubborn and not responding as well as her cheek. So contiue praying for her until we are done with the monthly treatments. I will try to post pictures tomorrow.

First day of Preschool

2009-09-24T05:01:00.000-07:00

Brady's first day of preschool has now come and gone. It's really quite hard to believe he's 3 1/2! Let alone in preschool! He really enjoys his teacher Ms. Erma. She is great with the kids! He had a friend named Jude that he loves to play with. Although that first day was hard for the both of us, I left with him crying I mean screaming. As for me I was bawling too. I called the teacher about 20 min later. He had stopped crying but still wasn't too comfortable to join in on all the activities. Well as for me I was still crying. When I went to pick him up I peaked through the window to get a glimpse of him to see if he was interacting. He was! I was so excited for him. However, that again made me cry! He was such a BIG boy! Of course on his first day of school, after I picked him up I asked what was his favorite thing he did. His response....snack time! Nice right? It is going much better than I imagined. The 2nd day NO TEARS for both of us. I am excited to see how much he grows this next year!

Updates

2009-08-17T18:05:00.001-07:00

Well hello friends! It has been quite some time since I posted. Our summers are very busy around here(but in a good way), and my computer time is after the little ones go to bed. Unfortunatley they seem to get to bed later and later in summer. By that time I am usually ready for bed as well.

My little boy will be heading to preschool in a couple of weeks. That is so hard to believe, where did the time go? When did he get so big? He is nervous and I must say so am I. Such a shy little boy, how will he do? He is growing up too soon. We were saying our prayers together the other night and I asked God to come back soon, so when we get to Heaven my Brady will still be my little baby boy. He goes ma, I am not your baby Riley is, im getting too big! I can be your big boy though. So sad!

Riley is starting to chit chat! She is constantly saying whats that? And she has become mother hen! She has this new baby that she carries around the house ALL day. Wrapping it up in a blankie and giving her a binky and feeding her a bottle. Oh no is all I can say! Boy is it so cute though. She also said love you to me the other day. It was the sweetest thing ever! She has also started to go potty on the big potty. WoooHooo for me! She isn't consistent, but usually once a day or every other day she will go. So I am ecstatic about that. She had another tx today that went well. Dr. didn't treat all of it this time. I was a little disappointed about that, but i trust that he knows what he is doing. He is VERY impressed with the results she has had.....we just continue to pray for them to keep coming. We know GOD is working as we speak!

We are waiting on closing for one of our houses which should be within the next week. We also are pretty sure we have a buyer for our other house as well. What a blessing! We are also in the process of purchasing another in Milford! We need God's direction loud and clear about which way to go with our business! So keep us in your prayers! Ryan loves doing this and hopefully someday we can do it full time!

Not Me Monday!

2009-07-13T22:45:00.000-07:00

I do NOT have quite the interesting NOT me Monday segment for you this week! This is NOT my son drinking my Diet Pepsi at 11:00 at night. We did NOT let him get away with way too many things while his daddy was on vacation. He did not stay up till at least 11:00 EVERY night this past week. No way NOT my son!
This is NOT my sweet, innocent little girl "trying" to pick up the WHOLE new bag of pretzels that she and her brother dumped all over her bedroom and our living room. Where in fact my husband who was NOT supposed to be watching them. I definitely did NOT find him catching a snoozer while this was all NOT happening right under his nose! I did NOT have to leave the room and laugh hysterically. They are NOT just too cute, those too. Oh yes, I did NOT continue to use those pretzels! No Way!
I do NOT let my daughter sit in our cupboard while i cook dinner, just to keep her quiet and occupied.
Brady is NOT soaking wet, holding this long haired cat. He is NOT now covered in hair, which is NOT is his mouth, eyes and nose! He did NOT decide to jump in the pool with that fur all over him!
Riley did NOT do this just as we were about to go into the Real Estate office to sign papers! I did NOT look in the backseat to find her squishing her pooh in both her hands! I did NOT have only two butt wipes left! Needless to say we didn't make it to that appt. Ryan did NOT decide to take the way home that had a bridge out. That bridge has not been out for 3 weeks now, Ryan!

Blessings

2009-07-11T19:35:00.001-07:00

We have been blessed immensely this week. God has just moved in amazing ways. He has helped me overcome something I have been dealing with regarding fear of the unknown and fear of the what ifs. We have had some HUGE prayers answered regarding our business. Also a HUGE prayer regarding Riley's treatments. He is just an Amazing God!

I realized instead of saying if all of the time. I need to speak saying when. WHEN God does this or God WILL do this. I need to speak in faith and on the promises . When we use the word if , it's like are doubting Him. Or questioning Him. I know his promises. I need to act on those promises. I need to rest assured on those promises. I need to speak in faith, knowing that he is our Provider of ALL our needs.

I Thank You Lord!

Ft Wayne Children's Zoo

2009-07-10T18:20:00.000-07:00

The two who make my heart melt!

Isn't he handsome? Just like his Daddy.

The light of my life! My Sweet Baby Girl.

We had such an amazing time at the zoo. My kids love every animal that God has put on this earth! Brady is a bug and insect fanatic! He loves catching butterflies and dragonflies. Some of his favorite things at the zoo were....of course the train ride and the boat ride. He really enjoyed the Lion, and the Turtle. He was so shocked at how big that turtle was! Rile loved the Monkey's. She just couldn't stop laughing at them. Brady was a little disappointed, he didn't get to see the elephants or giraffes:( The African part was not open yet. So we promised we would go back before summer was over so he could see them.

Camping

2009-07-10T18:13:00.001-07:00

So last night we decided we would camp out in our backyard with the kids...in might I ad a TENT. I am NOT a roughing it kind of person. I like my camper. So thank God it was in our backyard. When it came time for bed, I kid you not my husband had a t.v. with an extension cord ran out to the tent. Oh but wait....not only a t.v. but a lamp and a fan!
Brady was not too fond of the idea of sleeping there when it came down to it. He kept telling us he wanted to go in our house. He said there were "too many weird noises." He didn't like the crickets! So Ry ran in a got some books to read. That helped, he fell asleep while listening to a story. Riley on the other hand, well she will sleep anywhere! This is the girl who falls asleep while eating, and continues to eat while sleeping! So no problems there. We did good til about 4 or so. Riley's little cheeks were pretty cold so we decided to bring them in. I will say it didn't bother me one bit, I was in dire need of my bed too.

Here the kids are watching the fire that daddy made. Look at them, they look so much alike!

We roasted Marshmallows and Riley had her first smore.

Good news and doing what she does best!

2009-06-16T11:18:00.000-07:00

Well treatment number 3 is under our belt now! She did so good. We also some some amazing results from that last tx. Dr. Garden said that after the next two tx her PWS will most likely be pretty much faded! (all except the ball of her cheek will take a little longer and we may not see 100% fading, but the rest will be faded) Praise God! I am so excited for Riley!

She is really bruised today and her left cheek is pretty swollen....but as you can see she is back to her normal self and doing what she does best. Look cute and Eating!

Thank every single one of you who have prayed for our baby girl through all she has been through and for all she still has to go through. We can't express what that means.

Busy, Busy, Busy!

2009-06-09T21:14:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone! It's almost that time again. We are heading to Chicago for treatment number 3 for Riley. Her appt is Mon at 12. I'm starting to get jittery and worried and everything else that comes along. I just wish she didn't have to have anesthesia. For those of you who haven't see little miss Riley lately....she has had some GREAT fading! We are praying for even more with the next tx. She did really well last time, so i am sure all will go just as well this time. Brady has decided to not go with us. Last time he insisted he wanted to go...we got about 20 or so miles out of Chicago and he decided then that he now did NOT want to go and wanted us to take him back to Grandma's. Now that we have been talking about our trip Monday he makes sure to pipe up and let us know that he is going to Grandma's that day.

We still have not sold our Ligonier house. UGGG! So depressing i know! Our Cromwell house is finished and we have had renters in there for 2 weeks now. Topeka house will be done tomorrow and we will have an Open House on Sat. So pray pray pray for buyers!

My little sister has officially graduated from high school. Her Open House is Sunday. She went to Regionals in track and finished 5th. Only one away from going to state! We are so proud of all her accomplishments she has made! I am so excited to see what God has planned for her life.

My little brother Jarret just returned home from a trip to Washington D.C. He has loads of fun. I myself was the worried sister to texted him 3 maybe 6 times a day to make sure he was ok and having fun! Yes, I know I am just like my mother in law when it comes to these types of things.

As for my other little brother Josh well....he has turned into quite the fisherman! I think that is all he does anymore!

My husband is working, working, working! I am glad he will have a week of vacation off soon! We plan on LOTS of family time....fishing, going to the park, camping out in the backyard, campfires, bike riding, walks,4 wheeling, movies and all of us crashing out in the basement. (Brady thinks that is sooooo much fun)

What have you been up to?

2009-05-19T18:13:00.001-07:00

This is what we have been up to...................4 wheeler riding.

Eating popsiscles and more popsicles and more popsicles.

Lots of playing outside!

(some crying too, darn those big brothers)

Picnic dinners!

So what about you what have YOU been up to?

Jessi

It would only happen to us!

2009-05-18T17:20:00.000-07:00

Well, it has been so long since i posted I know. We have been way too busy. Hopefully things will slow down some shortly. So what's been happening in our household you ask? One of our other baby girls....Shelby (our dog) developed a blood hematoma in her ear. So today she had surgery to remove it. I will say it looks terrible. Yesterday her whole ear looked as though someone blew it up like a balloon. Surgery went well, she is home sleeping. I really thought i would be having my son stitched up before my dog...but no complaining by me. Rather it the dog than either one of my kiddos! So here is poor pitiful looking Shelby!

Now on a much brighter note. Riley is bruise free! Just a few bright red spots but minimal. She has had some significant fading so far this time! It's really great! I am feeling pretty optimistic about next time. She has been fighting this sinus thing though. She fought this last time right after her test tx. I'm wondering if it is related to her PWS. Some other parents are having sinus problems as well, so it has raised some questions. It will be interesting to see if she continues to have problems after her next tx.

Also Thurs we are headed to the zoo, i think i might be as excited as Brady! It looks like it will be a beautiful day too!

Tomorrow we have a showing on one of our investment properties in Ligonier. The realtor thinks that this may be our buyer. We pray it is! Still looking for more properties, but also ready for a much needed break! We will see where God leads us.

Riley's 2nd Treatment

2009-05-05T17:43:00.001-07:00

Well treatment day number two is finally over with. She is really well! Dr. Garden was very pleased for the most part with the results. The darkest spot the ball of her cheek didn't fade much if any though. That was a little disappointing, however we tried a little bit stronger strength. So hopefully it helps. Pray, Pray, Pray! When i handed her over to Jan (the anesthesiologist) she started to cry, i kissed her and left. Johanna (nurse) came out into the waiting room to let me know that she went to sleep really quick. That makes me feel a bit better knowing she didn't fight too long. She woke up after crying, but calmed down rather quick. As you can see she is pretty bruised. It doesn't seem to bother her at all. I have been doing lots of cuddling though. She does hate to have the cream on her, that she needs to keep on. I'm sure she will get used to it. Today she is basically back to normal, other than her "spots." Next treatment is Monday June 15th. Thanks to everyone for all prayers and comforting words. We are so thankful to all of you.

Birthday, Birthday, Birthday

2009-04-30T05:58:00.000-07:00

Here Riley and my dad, her papaw....don't you just love the dress. I figured we'll put leggings under and a sweatshirt and use it for trick or treating in the fall.

And then here she is with one of her new birthday presents. She also got a pink bubble mower, that is so cute. Brady got one too!

Birthday Girl!

2009-04-30T05:51:00.001-07:00

Well Little Miss Riley had not one, not two but three chances to devour her birthday cake! I must say she became pretty good at it. I also bought her an adorable little tutu. She wasn't too fond of that though. She must have felt pretty restrictive.

One Year Ago....

2009-04-20T19:16:00.000-07:00

One year ago
Riley Autumn
April 21, 2008

Pregnancy with our little baby girl was a fairly easy pregnancy, her birth was easier than Brady's even though she was a pound or so bigger.

That day was just plain SCARY for me and that was when the emotional roller coaster began. Totally honesty here....I was devastated. Worried, Scared, Petrified, there aren't words that can even begin to express what I felt. My baby girl was PERFECT, the light of my life. The doctors told us she had a bruise on her cheek from delivery, I just knew it was so much more. Ryan wasn't concerned, he trusted the doctors. I kept my intuitions to myself for awhile.

Ryan then went home to our little boy, Brady was upset and wanted to know where mommy was so I insisted he go home. When he left, well I melted. I mean I totally lost it. I immediately called my brother. I am not sure why him, instead of Ryan. I think I just wanted Ry to focus on Brady. Josh just listened. I think I cried more than I talked. Every scenario ran throughout my head. What if, what if, what if. What if there were medical concerns. What if she was teased, Will she feel different from her brothers or sisters or cousins? How do I explain to Brady? I had heard of a port wine stain, but new very little, other than they do not go away. I was most certain that was what it was. I had Josh looking up everything i could have him look up. He did and tried and tried to make me feel better. He read up on all of the procedures that could be done. He did ANYTHING he could to find SOMETHING to make me feel better.

I just had this amazingly beautiful perfect little girl, yet I felt lost and alone. I SERIOUSLY didn't think that I would make it through the night. I really thought I was going to have a nervous breakdown. There is nothing to compare having a child with a medical condition. Especially one that really no one know about. I cried alot that night. I really didn't sleep at all. I just remembering holding my baby girl all night while she slept I wept. I talked to the doc the next morning and he did say it wasn't a bruise as they thought but was a birthmark.....one that would go away. No need to worry. I asked about a PWS and he said no definitely not. I just wasn't able to believe. As the day went on though I asked every nurse that came in if they had seen anything at all ever like it. NO ONE had. Until we had been discharged, a nurse I hadn't seen before came in and asked just as we were leaving "oh she has an angel kiss, a port wine stain?" My heart dropped...I was right. Someone who didn't look at me like I was crazy! She really didn't know much about it, but had seen one before.

When we came home I TRIED to let it go and make myself believe it would "just go away." At that time I got way too much info way too fast, that is spelled G-O-O-G-L-E. I learned somethings that weren't pretty. Things that were well just terrifying. I was even more scared. I really didn't' talk to anyone much about it yet, I pushed a bit with the doctors. Still the same response.
I TOTALLY didn't go where I should have. I went to a REALLY bad place in my mind. I didn't even CONSIDER trusting Him in that moment.

For the first time in my life........
I really totally felt COMPLETELY alone!
and it was NOT pretty! That my friend....that was EVIL, that was SATAN. I know that for a fact. He is out to kill, steal and destroy.

Now, one year later...one year from that day that SCARY day, guess what?
That ONE day taught me to trust GOD like i have never, ever dreamed of trusting in HIM.
That day changed my life FOREVER. You LOST SATAN!

Now, here I am one year from the anniversary of THAT day. The day I realized that my baby girl would travel a journey that few have to travel. Throughout this year I have been blessed by a community of birthmark buddies. One who has CHANGED my life by her love for Christ and her love for me and my little girl. One who called me to talk, she had no idea who I was or anything about me other than that I needed her. I needed her to pray for us and encourage me. God put her in my reach for that very reason. Megan you are such an awesome person and I pray that one day we are able to meet face to face. We have made friends who will be there for a lifetime and I am so grateful.

We still have quite a journey ahead of us. As for her angel kiss. I am quite fond it. I think she is the most precious thing in the world. God has a plan to use us, we don't know how or when but we just have to TRUST him.

GOD is SO good!
Thank you God for my sweet baby girl.
Amen!

Happy Birthday Riley!

Remember to keep Riley in your prayers her next treatment is May 4th. Our prayer is for God to heal her himself, I hate that she has to go through these treatments. If it is his will for the doctors to heal her, then we pray for great results, fast healing, and for her protection and health foremost. We pray for her to remain healthy.

Love,

Jessi

Not Me Monday!

2009-04-20T09:31:00.001-07:00

I or shall I say WE have had quite the interesting week here! I hope this enlightens everyone's day.

Riley was eating some goldfish crackers for snack, i mean she was scarfing them down. I kept giving her more, then I did NOT catch her putting them down the register in the living room. No wonder they were going so fast!

Riley was NOT screaming at the fridgerator door while it was open. You know how the door swings when it's standing open. Well it kept hitting her in the back, she was so mad at that darn door!

My husband did NOT put pajamas that were way too small on Brady the other night, he did NOT get them out of the "too small" tote in the closet. I did NOT have a dresser FULL of clean pjs either. Of course, why would he get clothes out of the dresser?

While riding home from my parents I had the window's cracked and sunroof open. Riley was throwing a fit, i mean the biggest i've seen her throw. I had no idea what was wrong. Trying to calm her the best i could while driving, I noticed she was making this terrible face and blowing out of her mouth. She was NOT trying to blow the wind that was blowing on her! So i Rolled the window up.....and problem fixed. She cracks me up!

Brady came to me Sunday before church and did NOT say ma, i think i am getting really big, i think it's time for me to get a go cart. I'll jump on that right away!!! Definitely not!

I really did NOT find a snake, turtle and salamander all in one day in my NOT so lovely flower beds! I did NOT kill that snake, i wasn't going to have him surprise me one day while pulling weeds.

Brady did NOT scream mommy come quick. I did NOT RUN up the stairs to see what was wrong. I was NOT disgusted when he said mommy my do do is really, really, really, green and orange. I told him it was OK, because he had some Popsicles. He did NOT say in his most serious voice, No its not OK, I am pretty sure thats why my belly hurt! Lovely i know!

Now that is my not so marvelous, but awkwardly funny things that happened in our interesting family this week.

Be sure to check back tomorrow for My Sweet Baby Girls Birthday!

This my friends is what warm weather is all about!

2009-04-17T12:02:00.000-07:00

Aren't these the sweetest looking feet you've ever seen?

What a gorgeous day! We took advantage of it for sure. Me and the two kids and Richelle, Landon and Ada headed to the park. The kids had so much fun! So did the mommy's:) We also went to MCD's for lunch. It was so nice to be outside in the warm weather. I can also say we brought the shorts out! Woo Hoo! Finally!

Not Me Monday!

2009-04-13T16:07:00.000-07:00

As requested from Tabatha Corn....here is my not me monday segment that is long over due! Riley is NOT turning 1 in 7 days. She is not, she is not, she is NOT! I did NOT find my son playing in the pea gravel today when he was supposed to be waiting on the steps and they were NOT wet and NOT muddy.

Brady did NOT put a maxi pad in his underwear and exclaim "I have and ouchie!" (i honestly have no idea where he saw or got this from, I have not had to deal with this issue since i started having babies) He did NOT grab a tampon out of the drawer and say these are for ladies. Seriously where does he get this!

I am NOT jealous that my husband got some new and very cool Puma's! I do NOT love him oh so much.

Jessi

2009-04-13T06:23:00.000-07:00

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:13

Resurrection Day!

2009-04-13T06:11:00.000-07:00

We had an awesome Easter weekend. Friday was a gloomy, rainy day. BUT we knew Sunday was coming! It was a beautiful glorious day! A perfect day! I have had some awesome experiences teaching Brady about Easter this year. The most amazing thing is he is REALLY getting it. He knows that Jesus died for US. He is comprehening why. He is so excited about going to Heaven. He says mommy, daddy and Riley are going to play all day and live is Jesus' big house. He says we will ride horsey's and cow's. (i know way too cute) It's just so awesome! That is all i can say.

After Church we headed to Ryans Aunt Nancy's for dinner. It was fun to be with family. The kids has an easter egg hunt. This was Riley's first Easter. She enjoyed the egg hunt. As well as Brady.

2009-04-01T17:40:00.000-07:00

An update on my mom: She had surgery last Tues. The doctor found no cancers or tumors. Praise the Lord. They think that there is a muscle in her colon that is having spasms that is causing all the problems. She will go to Indy on the 13th for another surgery. Pray that they can find the exact problem and heal her. She has not been feeling well at all.

Riley's Birthday is coming up. So hard to believe. I will have a post later in the month about her first year of life you don't want to miss! So check back. Also her next appt is May 4 so keep us lifted up! I am just as nervous this time!

Also, the deal on one of our houses fell through. The couples loan didnt go through. So after 3 months of waiting, yes i said three months. I don't want to talk about it. It is back on the market. And we really NEED it to sell! That is a big prayer request right now.

Brady is so excited about racing season! Only a couple more weeks away. I'm not sure if we'll make it every week, because as most of you know cash is tight! SO we will see.

It's been way too long!

2009-04-01T17:30:00.001-07:00

The weather here in Indiana is trying to get better. I stress trying! For all of you who aren't from our lovely neck of the woods. I have been able to get the kids out more now. Boy are they loving it. Brady expecially! He loves the outdoors, as you can tell in the pic. Riley....well not so much. She hates the Sunshine.....hence the next picture, you can barely see her eyes through the squinting. It may not be a bad thing. With her treatments they want her out of the sun! Completely!

2009-03-14T06:10:00.000-07:00

Riley is climbing the stairs constantly! She has tumbled a couple of times, but usually she laughs when she falls.

We received some awesome news, our insurance company has ok'd Riley's treatments. We are so thankful. They paid it really well, they are incredibly expensive! And once we reach our out of pocket max we will not have to pay anything. It will NOT take long to reach that either. Once again GOD has provided.

We also bought another house. Ryan is really busy with them right now. He is working alot. His work is picking up as well he will be going to 5 days next week and also up in production numbers! I will definately miss the Friday's that he has been home with us though!

Be sure to check back in the next few days i will be posting more!

2009-03-14T06:08:00.000-07:00

This is one Riley's favorit things right now. She gets pretty hight! She also love to give High Fives.

It's been awhile!

2009-03-14T05:35:00.000-07:00

Fisrt here is that pic I told you'd i post! Brady who was supposed to be getting ready for bed, surprised me with being naked and roller skates!

As if i havent already told you all how smart my son is. Well we were at the mall driving and Brady yelled, daddy you forgot the octagon. Ryan had ran a stop sign and didn't even realize until Brady pointed it out.

Brady is so ready for racing season, he keeps asking if we can go today. Or tomorrow. He can't wait, i think he's like daddy. He wants to see papaw and uncle josh race.

So here is another pic of Brady feeding my moms dog pizza. Their sitting on the bed watching cartoons and scooby is trying to get as much food from Brady as he can.

Riley Appt Update

2009-03-02T19:28:00.000-08:00

Well Riley is healing so well. Her bruising is basically gone. Just a few little red spots. If you look closely you can see that where the did the treatments seems to be breaking up some. Also on her balls of her cheek where her PWS is darkest the used the strongest level and you can definately see the circle where they did it it is definately lighter. I am hoping that within the next few weeks we will continue to see more.
Her next appt is not until the first of May. We are a little bummed about that. They were booked. I did talk to the DR's assistant and she said that if they have a cancellation they will give us a call. Otherwise we will go in May. Then she will have an appt in June and July as well. They will only be 5 weeks apart, rather than 6-8. I will try to post pics when i have a little more time, that way you can all see how she's healing!

Not Me Monday!

2009-03-02T19:12:00.000-08:00

First I am Not addicted to The Bachelor. I am NOT mad at the way it is ending as i speak! I totally did NOT pick Melissa the first day. He is so NOT crazy! I did NOT spend the last two hours texting my sister throughout the whole show. He is NOT breaking up with Melissa and He is NOT asking Molly for a second chance! I am NOT bummed! I am NOT the only one awake enjoying this "me time." I am NOT going to get addicted to the next one. No way, NOT me!

Enough of that! Sorry! I am NOT so proud of my NOT so smart son. He is NOT three years old and he does NOT know his octagons, hexagons and pentagons. He did NOT get that from his dad! He did NOT point out to the stop sign on our way home from Lowes tonight and say Hey, Mom it's an octagon. I was NOT so overjoyed.....he is paying attention to what i teach him!

I did NOT make more sweets today and find my son NOT sitting on the kitchen floor....he was NOT licking the batter off the beaters! When some fell and landed on his toe he did NOT stick his toe in his mouth and lick it off. NOT my son! I have NOT raised and child to do such a thing!

Something I forgot to post last week. My sister did NOT have her last basketball game as a senior in high school and I did NOT cry. It did NOT break my heart!

Feeling Better!

2009-02-22T15:18:00.000-08:00

We have all been so sick. It seems like we would each get it one by one. When one was feeling better, we'd end up with another one sick. The kids are pretty good. Riley is getting over an ear infection, we took her to the doc on Wed and they put her on antibiotics. Ryan is still feeling UGHH though.

Yesterday Richelle and I took Brady and Landon to a Thomas the Train Exhibit in Warsaw. After over an hour of trying to find the place along with three illegal u turns and almost getting hit we found the place. (yes our children were in the back seat) we ARE awful parents. (but wait; guess what else we did!) Needless to say we arrived a half hour before it was over. The boys had tons of fun and each of them got to pick out some new trains for their train sets. The what else we did? Well we took them to McDonalds, the playland at MCD's. Ok we both said we'd NEVER let OUR kids play on that dirty, germy playland. Well we caved! Actually it was more like WE really NEEDED the time to chat! So yes we are more than awful parents we are TERRIBLE.

Last night Brady was going potty, I told him when he was finished to bring me his pjs so I could help him get ready for bed. Well time went on and on and still no Brady and no pjs. Finally i yelled Brady come on. So here comes my little boy stark naked in the kitchen with nothing but roller skates on and his "form of pjs" (a pair of jeans button up shirt and undies.) Of course i took a picture i'll post later!

I know i keep talking about how Riley is growing, growing, growing. Today we had to move her crib mattres to the lowest level and put our gate up at the banister. I HATE that gate. Oh yes, Brady does not like it either. He isn't able to open yet. I'm sure it will just be a matter of time before he figures it out. As for now it is a huge inconvenience for him and takes a bit of his freedom away.

Riley's "spots" are fading really well. Some are completely gone. Other are getting lighter by the day. It seems as though we can see already that they are a tiny bit lighter. I'm sure it will just get better as time goes on.

Riley's First Treatment!

2009-02-17T11:24:00.000-08:00

Riley's first laser treatment was yesterday. It went rather well. I am so glad that we got that first one done though. She didn't do too bad. It was a the hardest thing i myself have ever gone through. I lost it when they began to put the mask on her with the anesthesia. She screamed and kept pulling it off. She also pulled the heart monitors off several times. She kept looking at me. So i had to leave. It broke my heart. It was as though she was wanting me to do something to help her. I lost it at the point and told the nurse i needed to leave. Note to self, let her be in there with doctors alone. It was a hard decision. I didn't want to leave her, but i now know i'd rather that than see her upset and not being able to help her. It was so hard! When i walked out she must have fell asleep as i was walking out because i didnt hear her crying. I was sobbing however. The procedure was only about 15 min. Then they called me in and i woke her up from the anesthesia. She was groggy, but not too bad. Then a few words with the doctor and we were on our way home. She ate in the car and fell asleep most of the way. Dr. Garden feels as though she is going to respond well. She is doing great today...other than that tertrible cold we all have. Thanks so much to all of you for all of your prayers and kind words. That means the world to us.

We are still on!

2009-02-15T19:05:00.000-08:00

So Riley DID catch what Brady had and guess what so did I. Yuck! I talked with the anesthesitician and she said she thought we should go ahead. Riley has no temp, no vomiting just a cough and runny nose. If you all read this before tomorrow at noon, say a quick prayer for her and us. I'm nervous! Of course right? I talked with a Birthmark Buddy Friend and she helped me feel a little better about it. She's a mommy of a baby girl with a PWS too and she's been there. So with all that said. I will TRY to post tomorrow night, possibly post pics as well. Hopefully anyway!

Say a prayer for my mom too. She has been in the hospital since Thurs. She is having some major problem with her stomach/pancreas and not sure what is going on. She will be transported to FT Wayne tomorrow, so keep her in your thoughts. Love you All!

Jessi

Not Me Monday!

2009-02-10T05:21:00.001-08:00

I am NOT doing my Not me Monday segment, again on Tues morning rather than Monday. I am NOT blogging while trying to feed the little ones breakfast. I did NOT tell Brady that the brown sugar in his oatmeal was chocolate, just to get him to eat it.

Ryan did NOT get laid off yet again last week. I am NOT so over this economy! Brady did NOT wake up with a scratchy throat. He is surely NOT getting sick now that Riley goes to Chicago. So please, please, please pray that she stays well.

My little Princess did NOT master crawling this week. And she is NOT developing quite the attitude!

I did NOT snap a few pictures of my son trying to nurse his baby doll yet again. I did NOT take more pictures when i found him and Landon playin with babies, purses and makeup. That just means that they will be good daddy's right?

I did NOT get peed on in the night. I did NOT remind Ryan to make Brady go potty before bed. He did NOT forget to do it either! I did NOT let both kids sleep with us all night in OUR bed either. I really did'nt mind!

I did NOT realize that i am becoming the overprotected mother, when I began looking at preschools for my sweet little boy. I did NOT let that sweet little boy go TWO nights without brushing his teeth before bed!

I did not scold my husband for not coming to bed until 5 in the morning for three nights in a row. I will probablly NOT post this segment yet again next Tues rather than Monday.

With all that said.....Keep Riley lifted up! Monday will come quickly. We need her to be 100% healthy!

She is Crawling for Real!

2009-02-05T15:41:00.000-08:00

Today Riley "really figured out how to crawl." She gets so excited when she does. She claps and says Yea! Its adorable. Of course I had to get my camcorder out and catch all the action! She is standing really well alone too! I'm sure it will just be a matter or time before she walks.

Senior Pictures

2009-02-01T17:37:00.001-08:00

Today after church and visiting with my Dad and Stepmom, Ryan, my sister, Jord and and I headed to David Rogers Park and Delta Church Park to take her Senior Pictures. Isn't she beautiful if i must say so? I'm not conceided thinking that she is georgous! She really is! After taking a hundred twenty something pictures, we got some really good ones. But oh was it so cold! My fingers were FROZEN, I mean i could barely push the button they were so cold. Not to mention that we had to walk in almost knee high snow! I'm sure they hadn't plowed the park all winter. The pictures look great you'd never know she was freezing!
Yesterday we spend the day at Ryan's moms finishing up a remodel. It was a long day for the two little ones. They both enjoyed seeing Gramee and Butch! We were cutting it rather close though. See Jordan had a game in Butler, and we were not done in Milford til 4:30. That left us two hours to get everyone showers and the hour long drive. We did make it in record time. I am sure glad we did! She played awesome! Offensivly and defensivly! 19 points! I am not proud or anything like that if you cannot tell.
Almost forgot Riley is crawling a bit. It depends on her mood, however! She is also becoming quite the chatterbox, hopefully she will bring some of Brady's shyness out!
Keep us in your prayers, Riley appt is soon! Ryan also has another week off of work next week, so we need a blessing! Good Night y'all!

Not Me Monday!

2009-01-27T18:05:00.000-08:00

Ok here, I know its a day late, but how about some not me Monday. I'll showcase a few of my not so great and perfect moments.

While we were all downstairs in the family room watching a movie last evening, Brady went upstairs to go potty. I was feeding Riley when i heard him screaming. It was a horrific scream like the time he fell off his bike and busted his mouth open with blood everywhere. Ryan ran upstairs i followed with Riley. When we got up there he was in the living room with his pj's and undies around his ankles. Along the great big goosebump on his forhead. That was already black and blue with a huge indent in it. After he was calmed down, had a Thomas the Train icepack on it, he began to explain. See he was in such a hurry to go...i have one who likes to wait til last minute! He bent down so fast to pull his pants down and busted his head on the toilet. Ryan and i were NOT laughing through his explanation. I did NOT tell him to suck it up when he said he need some tylenolf and a vitamin to feel better. (but yes i did give the vitamina and tylenolf as he calls it) Finally, we could NOT hold it in when we were talking about how to explain it to everyone.
I did NOT sleep in with the kiddos this morning til 8:45 just because. Ok this is a terrible one! I did NOT find my sweet innocent son in his bedroom with Riley's teething tablets. Eating them like candy. I was NOT furious when i was trying to have a deep conversation about why we cant do that, because he said mom i only ate like two. When clearly there was 30 gone. I'm talking there were only 7 left in the bottle and that only because i found them on his bed. I am NOT a terrible mother for letting that happen! All is fine, they were homeopathic, but i still called the poision control center. I am NOT still fretting about the baby weight that still won't budge. Riley did NOT sleep in our bed for the last 3 nights because she was sick. I did NOT make this huge dessert and it is NOT half way gone already.

Now on a more serious note. A great big CONGRATULATIONS to Tabatha and Jamison Corn on the birth of their baby girl Ashlynn Marie. We are so happy for you. I really enjoyed visiting with you both and meeting your little one!

Riley seems to be better today. No fever anyway. She does have this lacey rash on her trunk and back. I think it's roseola. Although it could also be an allergic reation to eggs. So well try another bite of eggs in the next few days to see if we have the same reaction. I'd rather deal with the roseola though, basically that is the end of the virus she had.

My sweet little girl is not interested in crawling! She will now pull herself up. But refuses to crawl. I am getting tired of lugging her around! She is quite a load. Only 7 lbs lighter than Brady!

Here is the correct to the parents who need your prayers, the address i gave you last night was incorrect. kellyskornerblog.com

Answered Prayer!

2009-01-25T17:50:00.000-08:00

As most of you know Rileys trip to Dr. Gardens office is Feb 16. I was supposed to be going without Ryan. God answered our prayers and he will be able to go! I had been bugging about this for weeks now. Ryan talked to his boss and he said it was no problem. He will go into work, but will leave at 7:30. We are so thankful! He seemd to be so upset at the thought of not being there for that first time. What a blessing!

It seems like we have had this viscous cycle with the sniffles and coughs and fevers and whatever else you want to through in there! Riley has been sick with a fever all weekend. It was up to 104 Friday night. We seem to have it under control pretty well though. Not all the way down but around 100. If she is not completely well by tomorrow night i will take her to the doc. She doesnt seem to have an ear infection, but possible. Brady was always having them. Riley's ears have been a bit cheaper though. Hopefully we'll keep it that way. We just figured we should have her checked because if so we will more than likely start antibiotics and that is a 10 day cycle. So we need to start asap, because treatment is only 21 days away!

We are still waiting for a closing day for our investment property. Hopefully we will get one this week. We also put in two offers on two other homes as rental properties until economy picks up then we will probably sell them. I pray they accept our offers! God seems to be opening up doors for us!

My little boy is quite the little guy. The other day we were home just me and the kids and we were singing and praising God. Brady pipes up

B: Hey mom

J: Yea bud

B: Lets pray to Jesus

J: Ok, what should we pray about?

B: I want to tell him i love him so so so so so so much. (this is his new thing so so so....)

(so we beging to pray)

B: Hey mom (while were praying)

J: Yea

B Lets tell him we love him lots and lots and lots and lots. (new thing too)

J: Ok

(Praying again) (with his eyes closed tight)

B: Jesus, mommy loves you, Riley loves you , Brady loves you and daddy loves you, but hes not here right now hes working! But he still loves you!

B: Amen

I manage to get Amen out as i'm laughing so hard. How awesome is that? My 3 year old expressing his love for Christ, thank you God!

Goodnight and AMEN!

Almost forgot please check out this blog and take two minutes of your time to pray for them and their baby girl! Prayer changes things! kellyskorner.blogspot.com

Happy Birthday Brady!

2009-01-18T18:14:00.000-08:00

Brady turned 3 yesterday. On January 17th 2006 Bradyn Williams Barth entered our world. That was 3 years ago. It seems like yesterday. Three years ago today we would have just brought our litttle baby boy home from the hospital. He has grown up so fast into an awesome little guy. I still call him my little baby though. He is our shy guy! Racecar loving, daddy adoring, not afraid of ANYTHING, limit tester, and mommas boy!

He spent the first part of his day at Gramee's with daddy. Mommy had meeting at church. So it was a hectic day! Trying to get the cake made and decorations all ready. Naptime didn't look like it was going to happen, but we finally got him to fall asleep. There was just so much excitement going on.

Brady wanted a racecar cake for his birthday so we decorated in Hotweels. His favorite toy. Lucky for me! There only 97 cents a piece. I can handle that! He choose a green car. Such a hard choice. Blue or Green?

When we sang Happy Birthday he was so shy. Didn't want anyone to look at him. Just like daddy again. Do you see a trend? Everything about him is like his daddy! Looks and all!

Happy Happy Birthday! I love you Brady!

He had so much fun at his birthday party! He ate lots of cake and frosting! Just like his daddy. He has a terrible sweet tooth!

I love my brother! I love my sister!

2009-01-18T18:04:00.000-08:00

2009-01-18T17:50:00.000-08:00

Happy Tuesday!

2009-01-13T19:52:00.000-08:00

Ok i know its been over a week since i posted, but it is hard to find time with two little ones! First off Riley's appt has been rescheduled for Feb 16th. I was hoping for sooner than later, but that is not the case.
On Saturday we spent the day at my youngest brothers basketball tournament. Brady really enjoys watching the guys play. I think i may have a basketball player on my hands, however my husband begs to differ. He says we have a racer. We'll see he's a pretty good pitcher too so maybe baseball. Hey Seth! (my friend Anitras hubby is the coach for Bethel College Baseball, for those of you who don't know)
Happy Birthday Audrey! We all had so much fun yesterday at my neice's 3rd Birthday Party. She is our adorable, loveable, absolutely giddy, outgoing, talkative precious little girl. We love her so much!
We went to my sisters basketball game tonight. She played awesome. I can't belive she's graduating this year! It seems unreal. She was only in third grade when Ryan and I started dating. We are so PROUD of her, she has become a wonderful person. I love her like my kiddos!
Only 3 more day til my little man is 3. So sad!
Miss Riley Autumn has learned to say Bye Bye and Hi. It's so sweet. Not crawling yet. Trying very hard, but pushes herself backwards. Quite frankly i am NOT looking forward to this. She is already growing so fast. Crawling will make her seem so much bigger yet.

Goodnight to all!

Not Me Monday!

2009-01-05T19:31:00.000-08:00

Sesame Street was so much fun! Brady really enjoyed, but he wanted to know why elmo didn't wave bye to him at the end. It was great time together. Riley enjoyed it to all up until the last 20 min. She was clapping her hand and singing along!
Since I have been introduced to the blog world, (thanks Anitra and Megan) I've had the privilege of reading the not me mondays, that Megan introduced me to. (For you that haven't heard of Megan she is a dear friend i have met through a port wine support group and awareness site. ) Not Me Monday's are A cute way to admit your not so perfect moments. So enjoy and have a laugh. I usually do, and realize how human and so much alike we really are.
Here it goes.
Yesterday at Sesame Street Live I did NOT let my son eat 2 bags of cotton candy, because it was his birthday. I did NOT buy him the 8 dollar elmo balloon and i did NOT buy him two 5 dollar bags of cotton candy. I did NOT laugh so hard today when he wacked his sister on the head with a baby doll. He said it was an accident so i don't have to sit in time out. Sorry Riley! I did NOT fix two different things for dinner to please everyone! I did NOT regret going to church yesterday when i was SOOO tired and worn out. I did NOT just allow my husband to feed my son Oreos before bed at 9:00. When i told Ryan to brush his teeth i did NOT get mad when he didn't. I am NOT oh so sad and teary that my baby boy will turn 3 in 10 days! I did NOT raise my voice a little too much when Brady had a tantrum today. Last but not least I am NOT blogging again at 11:00 at night when i should be doing laundry or better yet sleeping.

Chicago

2009-01-04T11:18:00.000-08:00

Hi, I thought i would let you all know that we will no be going to Chicago tomorrow morning. I called the anesthesiologist this morning. We both agreed that since she was so congested, that we will wait another month. They only do do this procedure once a month on Mondays only. So the office will call tomorrow to make another appt.

Now we are off to see Sesame Street Live. This is Brady's 3rd Birthday present and he is so excited.

Dinner with Friends

2009-01-02T20:38:00.000-08:00

Today we went to Richelle, Josh and Landons home for dinner. We all really enjoyed ourselves. It was a great time to let the boys play together and to chat and just enjoy friends. Thanks so much Richelle for dinner, dessert and opening up your home for us to leave it a mess:)
Last night we enjoyed some family time at my Parents home. The four of us along with my brother, Jarret and sister, Jordan. We had loads of fun playing Taboo! If you haven't played it yet you definately need to. We need to do this more often. My siblings are growing up so fast. We were talking and Jarret was the same age Brady is now when Ryan and I started dating. Now he's 14. Thats crazy!
I talked to the anethesialogist today about Riley's appt Monday. She has a cold, so we are keeping in check with that. She seems to be quite a bit better today. So I'm confident that we will continue with the procedure Monday. We will give her a call Sunday night to make sure though. Thank You God for keeping us safe today and guiding us in all we do. We are so blessed!

Good Night Everyone!

We SOLD the house!

2009-01-01T20:34:00.000-08:00

Almost forgot we sold our investment house in Ligonier. YEA! It was an answered Prayer. Now looking for another one and maybe some rentals.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T20:15:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to all of you! We spent our New Years Eve at home with our two kiddos. They both have colds, so it was best for them to stay in. (Riley needs to be completely well for her treatments. Her immune system needs to be 100%. So we are praying she gets well in the next day so we can keep our appt.) We rented a movie and Brady and I made homemade Brownie Earthquakes! I was even going to let him eat it at 11:00 at night, but he had fallen asleep downstairs on the couch, before i made it back down. Can you belive i actually tried to wake him so he could eat it? I really did! He didn't even care, just went back to sleep. We enjoyed ourselves. It was nice just the four of us.
I'm going to try to get some pictures posted along with Prayer Requests. So i you have any let me know.

Welcome

2008-12-30T21:22:00.000-08:00

Hi, Here I am new to the blogging world. I will try to post often. Several of you would like for me to keep you updated on Riley and her upcoming appointments. Here is where i will do that. Along with keeping in touch with so many of you who it is so hard to do. So check often. I will my best to keep on top too.

So here it is midnight, well actually 12:30, and i'm awake all alone. Everyone else is sleeping and i'm trying to figure out this "blog world."

I hope everyone had an awesome Christmas. We sure did! My favorite part of the day was when we woke up. Of course Brady was in our bed and with my most excited voice i asked him if he knew what today was and he responed it's Jesus' Birthday. I proceded to tell him he was right and that he remembered i was so proud of him. Then he asked me in his most serious voice, "Mom is Jesus going to eat ALL the birthday cake by himself or can i have some too." See we had a red velvet cake ready for dinner and he assumed that was Jesus' and he was worried he wasn't going to get any. How Adorable! It was priceless. Something i will never forget.