Treatment Week 1

Well, I really didn't intend for it to take a whole week for me to enter another blog. I think the nausea medication, which I am extremely thankful for, really has caused quite a bit of exhaustion. I'll try to catch you up as best I can. Hopefully, the blogs won't be so far apart next time.

Before I had chemo, I didn't really know what to expect. I'm not sure I ever even tried to picture it. So, for those of you who don't know, I'll describe treatment 1A for you from Monday. If you already know, you may want to skip this paragraph. My treatments are received in a room that looks very much like a large hotel lobby. It's very comfortable, but cold. There are 14 red recliners, each with a colorful blanket draped over the back. There is a little coffee table beside each chair. The chairs are arranged in two circular settings with IV poles all around. The treatment room has lots of windows. The lighting is natural with calming apricot and aqua wall tones. Snacks are available...water, juice, crackers, cookies, chips, etc...The best part about the chemo room is the oncology nurses, Jerri and Jill. They rock! I can tell you without a doubt they have found their calling. I won't have my port until early May, so I received my first cycle of treatment through IV. It wasn't bad, but I hate to admit that I think having a port will make it easier for us all. Jerri took care of me Monday. She explained every little think she did. What chemicals I was receiving, how they would make me feel, what to watch for, how long it would take, when my hair would fall out, what to do about it. You name it...she was my "chemo mom." Kevin went with me Monday. If you know him at all, you know he NEVER sits still. He was free to come and go from the chemo room as he needed to make work calls and stretch his legs. I know he would love to do more, but he can't. I love him so much. We were gone from about 9am til 3:30pm Monday. Really no appetite at all that day. Forced myself to eat some cream potatoes with cheese for dinner, peanut butter and crackers earlier in the day. Grandma stopped by for a brief visit with surprises for Jack and me. Thanks, G'ma.

When you take chemo, it's important that you drink plenty of fluids to rid your body of the toxins, like 2-3 liters per day in my case. I focused so diligently on drinking the water that I forgot to drink any caffeine. My head was killing me by 7pm. I'm a Dt. Mtn Dew addict you know. It didn't really occur to me until later that night it was the lack of caffeine, not the chemo, that was causing such a horrendous headache. I got no rest. Tuesday, I was more watchful of my caffeine intake. Unfortunately, I don't like Dt. Mtn. Dew any more. Everything tastes like a melted fork when I eat it. 

Mom did a very special favor for me Monday night. I know it was hard for her. She shaved my head. It will need to be shaved closer, but this was a good start. We saved all my hair in a zip-lock bag. When my cancer is gone, I plan to celebrate by releasing my hair for the birds to use.  My sister and her family were able to watch via skype. Jack watched while we did it. I told Jack and Mallory that I wanted to cut my hair short like Jack and Uncle Tony's to see if it would grow back curly like Mallory's (Jack's 4 year old cousin). I'm glad I allowed them to watch. I think it was good for us all. My mom handled it very well I think, better than I would have. We videoed it. I'll see about posting it to the blog. Then, I read a book to Jack called Mommy without Hair? that Kevin checked out of the West Clinic library for me. Jack really liked it. I had put my wig on, yes I have two, but Jack made me take it off. (smile) The main character in the book is four-year-old Jack. His mom has cancer.

Tuesday was even longer. Mom took me to chemo on day 1B. Kevin was able to work and Grandma took care of the kids. It took five hours for the Taxol to infuse, which is expected. It starts slow to avoid reaction, then they speed it up. It's odd to sit and watch clear toxins drip into your body one at a time and know that it is actually going to save your life. Reminds me of an Alanis Morissette song..."Isn't it ironic..." I was especially tired Tuesday. I finally fell asleep 30 minutes before my infusion. It was a good nap though. Mom said I was smiling, talking to angels is what she calls it. I think it was comforting to her. It was also good for her to see what happens in chemo. I took a really long nap when we got back home. It was Jack's very first T-ball practice. I wanted to go see it so badly. I almost didn't make it, but in the end God gave me the strength. I was even able to go out on the field and help the lil sluggers wait for their time to bat from the tee with Kevin. Jack did well. I'm so proud of him. It's going to be so much fun to see him play. He is one of the two smallest kids out there; his birthday came in time by only 1 week. FYI...he no longer approves of being a "little boy." He is now a "biggun."

Wednesday finished out day three of my first chemo cycle. Eight more to go. Mom took me again so Kevin could work. I think he got a lot accomplished. Mom took me to lunch at Harvey's for lunch. I didn't want any food, but again, I'm forcing myself to get the protein down. I ordered the Grouper Almondine....YUMMY! This is the best meal I've had all week! Still thinking about it. I think I'll have potatoes with it next time, the rice pilaf was too strong for my taste buds.  It was fantastic! Definitely on my chemo week menu now. We thoroughly enjoyed our meal, and were pleasantly surprised at the end to be told that there was no bill. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank some dear old friends of the Riley family. You know who you are. I was able to stay up late and catch up some email Wednesday night. Mom went home Wednesday afternoon, but plans to returns soon. It was really nice having her here. I love you, Mom!

I was happy to be able to do that. I hate feeling like I have something hanging over my head. I didn't eat dinner with Kevin or the kids. I know they missed me, but understood. Instead, the magnificent Luz Andrea warmed my dinner in the microwave. I was a little nervous about this, she is a novice chef, but my chicken and potatoes were just right. I am going to miss her so much. Luz is much more than an exchange student to our family, she is part of it. Sometimes she is my daughter, sometimes my friend, but always family. I'm going to miss her silly ways.

Thursday...I didn't hurt. I was slow and lethargic. My brain and body didn't cooperate well together. I could tell my brain was more sluggish, frustrating for a control freak. Nonetheless, we made it though another good day. I had to take a few naps to get through the day, though. Luz was MVP when it came to keeping Jack busy, as was her partner in crime from Germany, Marie. So, Thursday was mainly work, sleep, eat, work, eat, sleep. I expected back and leg pain that day, and thought I had gotten away without it. It's a side-effect of one of my drugs. No such luck...started this morning. It's not so bad though. I am managing it just fine.

Thank you all for your love and support, I do read all your replies, even when I am too tired to respond. :)

Chemo countdown...

Chemotherapy starts tomorrow. I am really not nervous about it. No fear.

We had a wonderful weekend, despite the storms that raged through Mississippi yesterday. We stayed in for pizza and a movie (The Blindside) Friday night. Seems like it rains every time we bring Vanelli's home for dinner. We went to the mall mid-morning Saturday, so Jack could burn some energy while playing inside. Kevin and Grandma watched Jack play on the mall playground, which I love, while Luz and I did some window shopping. Then we all went to the theater for a movie. Kev and I watched "How to Train a Dragon" in 3D with Jack. I like the 3D graphics, but am not a big fan of the movie. I thought it was too loud and a little long for the lack of content. Hiccup was a favorite, though. Grandma and Jack hung out together in the evening so Kevin and I could enjoy a special evening out to dinner at my favorite restaurant in town, Park Heights. I won't be able to eat salad for a while, or any raw fruit/veggies, during chemo. I love the endive/watercress salad with citrus dressing and pine nuts and their awesome crab cakes. YUMMY! We brought desert home for Luz...ok and me. :) Today was a beautiful, gorgeous day. Wanna know how I spent it? Napping for 2 1/2 hours after church. I really needed the nap, but I'm sure that's why I'm up so late tonight. Father Tom came over to visit. Kevin and I were truly grateful. He had called to check in before, but I never got around to calling him back. He prayed the sacrament of the sick with us. Grandma brought dinner over. Thanks, Grandma! Mom, Dad, and Amanda called to check in this afternoon. I'm looking forward to seeing Mom and Amanda this week. 

I'm sure this is one of the most boring blog entries you've ever read. I'm not sure why I felt the need to post it, other than maybe to share how "normal" everything felt this weekend with all that is going on in my life right now. I cherish every moment I have with family right now. Jack has been so good. I don't think he realizes anything different right now. If he does, he's taking it all in stride. 

The War Within Me

It's amazing how life can change in an instant...just one small moment in time. One minute we're be-bopping along thinking we know exactly what we're doing, the next...wham! Life changes! Last Friday LIFE threw me another curve. 


You may already know that I am a cancer survivor. A year and a half ago, I had endometrial cancer. My doctors were able to rid my body of the cancer via surgery, which is much better than the alternative. I recovered fairly quickly thanks to new technology like robotic surgery. Since then, I've visited my oncologist, Dr. Reed, quite regularly for check-ups and lab work. My last clean bill of health was in November. 


Last Friday, I visited Dr. Reed again with CT images on cd and a little concern about some irregularities I had noticed. That is when one of those instant moments of change happened in my life. My cancer had returned. I have recurring endometrial cancer in my lung and one other place, not good news, but it could be worse. I cried a little, pulled myself together, and began the hour long drive home to tell my family. "I can handle this," I told myself. "We can handle this," I told my wonderful husband, Kevin. "I can handle this," I reassured the rest of my family and friends. "Help me handle this," I prayed to God. 


Dr. Reed gently told me to prepare myself for aggressive chemotherapy, three different toxins, lots of protein and water, weight gain, hair loss, nausea, pain, exhaustion, the whole bit. "OK. I can do this, one day at a time." Kevin and I are ready to fight this together, with the help of supportive friends and family. Pride will not be an obstacle in my recovery, our recovery. This is Kevin's cancer as much as it is mine. We are one, a perfect team. 


My body is at war with itself. I have decided to resume posting to this blog to help my friends stay abreast of what is going on in our struggle. Needless to say, the past week has been a whirlwind of doctor visits, phone calls, work preparations, home planning, you name it. I start chemo Monday. I have three days of chemo every three weeks until nine rounds are complete...6 months. I'll get a port to protect my skin from the strong chemicals: taxol, cisplatin, and adriamycin. 


Kevin's mom has taken me shopping for a wig and dress for my nephew, Sean's wedding in May. I don't mind going bald, but I don't want to scare the dickens out of Jack. It was fun to have something to look forward to. My mom is coming to take care of me and the kids Monday through Wednesday. My sister, Amanda, is coming to help at the end of the week. It's been an emotional roller-coaster for us all. Most people say, "Well, the least I can do is pray for you." That's not true. Prayer is the most you can do. Pray that we continue to be optimistic, faithful, and strong, that we will constantly be reminded of God's plan. If I have never told you before I love my life. God has given me more than I ever dreamed possible, my last request is to watch Jack grow up, with Kevin by my side.
 

Has it been a year since I posted already...Really?

I still can't believe it's been a year...I feel like I should send out one of those Christmas Catch-You-Up letters that everyone sends...I won't do that, but I'll share the year in a nutshell and make a resolution to update more regularly...promise!

January...I went back to Milam Elementary after Christmas break and explained to my principal that even though I still love children, my heart is with Jack and I wasn't coming back after the summer...and oh by the way, if you find a replacement for me today, I'm happy to bow out and go home. He made me stay through May. :(

February...Geez...I can't even remember. Went to a Kelly Clarkson/Reba concert on Valentine's Day. That was fun. Started a diet that I didn't stick to. Diets make me gain weight. Isn't that terrible?

March...It snowed during spring break. How cool is that?

April...Jack's 2nd birthday. He's getting so big! We had his party at our house on the Tumblebus. It's a way cool bus set up like a gymnastics gym for kids. All I had to do was serve cake and ice cream to 2 year olds.

May...Counting down the days to school getting out. I'm working two jobs by now, because I went back to WGU part time to make sure I could work there when school got out.

June...Working at home again with WGU. Wondering why I ever left. Jack is getting bigger by the minute. He now directs me to "my paaaarrrrk" in a whining voice when we drive by. We take bread to feed the ducks, but Jack eats it himself.

July...Travel to Salt Lake City for a reunion with my WGU buddies. What a trip! I'm looking forward to seeing them again in a couple of weeks. Jack enjoyed the Independence Day fireworks.

August...It was so hot! We took Jack swimming at the neighbors house. He's so modest it takes 30 minutes to get him to take his shirt off in the water. Can you believe it with THAT tan?

September...Found out I had cancer. That was one of those moments in life like the Challenger explosion and the bombing of the twin towers; you never forget where you were. I knew something was wrong for a few months before. Still, we were shocked and scared. Kevin's dad died with cancer. We prayed more than we ever had before. I remember planting flowers around the mailbox hoping that if something happened to me they'd still be there for Kevin and Jack.

October...Surgery to remove the cancer was successful. No further treatment was necessary. We were humbled by the kindess and consideration friends, neighbors and complete strangers showered us with. We hosted the 8th Annual Jack Riley Memorial Golf Tournament to raise funds for the Sanctuary Hospice House. It was a success. Contact me if you'd like to contribute. Cousins Mallory and Savannah came for a visit to trick or treat with Jack and see Disney on Ice the next day. Jack was Mickey, Mallory was Minnie, and LaLa was a ladybug (which suits her to a tee.) I made his costume myself. Jack has never eaten so much candy! He had a blast. :) Jack went to the "real zoo" for the first time. His favorite was the monkeys. I have never seen an elephant go peepee. That was the most amazing thing for me! It's like a carwash. Here is a picture of Jack watching the elephant go potty.

November...We began another adoption endeavor. We are going a different route this time. We pray continually for the child(ren) we hope to adopt. Thanksgiving was at Kevin's brother's house, Tim. We enjoy a wonderful feast and praised God for the many blessings we'd received this year, including cancer. In the end, it was a blessing.

December...Christmas was a magical ending to a very trying year. Jack was beyond excited, even though he still wouldn't sit in Santa's lap. We tried to teach him the story of Jesus's birth. He thought the camels were pretty cool. We rode a the train with Santa Claus while visiting Granny and the rest of the family. Then we all went to the zoo for Christmas Lights at night. The weather was nice and again the kids had a marvelous time.

I can't begin to imagine what the next year has in store. If God had told me last January what 2008 would bring. I don't think I would have left my bedroom. Just think of all the wonderful blessings I would have missed out on!

The Zoo, kind of...

Kevin and I took Jack to Pet Smart yesterday. We weren't shopping for anything, we just visited. For Jack, going to Pet Smart on a Saturday morning is pretty much like going to the zoo. The difference? Jack gets to pet all the dogs coming in for training class. First of all, we stop by the "bud" cages. The was enamered with the green and blue parakeets. The flitted around, flapped their wings and put on a pretty good show for him. We must have stood there for 10 minutes while he watched them. He pointed out every single bird, as if I might not notice them.

The reptiles were close by, and there was a really cool turtle. So, I let Jack stand on a mobile step the workers use and showed him the turtle. Have you ever read Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing? Fudge eats his brothers turtle. Well, Jack doesn't think turtles are as cool as Farley Drexel Hatcher does. He wanted down immediately. I asked, "What's wrong? You don't like the turtles?" Jack replied with a violent shake of the head and firm, "NO!" "Ok, bud, let's go find something else."

Next, the parade of disobedient, or so their owners think, dogs began. Jack was the Pet Smart greeter. He was so cute. They should pay him to bring customers into the store. He petted chihuahuas, labs, muts, you name it. One man had dachsons and Jack sat down in the floor beside them to play. :)

After that, we went into the cat room. Jack loves our neighbors' cat. So, I figured he'd be good with the ones at Pet Smart. Well, let me tell you, he was in absolute heaven! He played and played and played. He was so sad when he had to tell the bye. He kept looking back over his shoulder, almost made me want to adopt one. I'd rather let him play with the neighbors' cat.

I remembered that Biscuit and Birdie need new tags with our new phone and address info on them. We used the engraving machine to make two. Jack thought that was pretty cool, but not anywhere near as awesome as the automatic doors. He kept walking up to them to get them to open automatically. He'd walk up and squat with his hands on his knees waiting. We laughed loudest when he'd have to scoot up closer because he hadn't crossed the magical open the doors line.

We had so much fun, and didn't have to pay admission!

Juno

Last night, Kevin and I went to see Juno. We both loved it. Most of the reviews I've read focus on the fact that this movie is about teenage pregnancy. That is true, I guess. To me, it was more about adoption. I'm sure being an adoptive parent has something to do with it.

I've found, since our adoption journey began in August 2005, that those who have no experience with adoption or haven't been personally touched by it (whether birthmom/father/sibling, adoptive parent/sibling, or family member) truly can't relate. It's not that they don't want to. On the contrary, they try wholeheartedly. They just can't relate...to either side of adoption. For me, despite the fact that Jack is loved as much as any other child in our family, even our own relatives stuggle to understand the relationship that exists between Kevin and me and Jack's birthmom.

People often ask, "How could she do that?" They don't understand that the decision she made isn't about herself. It's about Jack, too. She didn't "give him away." She gave him a life, one that is filled with opportunity. She struggled with abortion. I don't know how easy or difficult that would be, because I can't relate. I do know that someone I barely knew walked around public places, like Juno did the mall, and was scrutinized for being pregnant out of wedlock. She was in the grocery store every week. I'm sure people would ask, "When are you due? Boy or girl? Picked out a name? How exciting!" Can you imagine the pain, the guilt, the strength and courage? If you've ever been pregnant, consider the times you were oooooed and aaaaaahhhed over. Now imagine reaping none of the benefits, nothing to hold, rock, feed, or show off when you get home, no trophy. I missed out on all the physical pregnancy attention with Jack, but I have the most beautiful prize to show for it napping in the next room. So, to answer the how could she question...I have absolutely no idea how someone could be so strong and selfless and publicly admit such a mistake, but I am eternally grateful she did.

Jennifer Garner did an excellent job of portraying a woman who wants to be a mother more than anything in the whole world. I can identify with her on so many levels. I know the hurt she felt when having to explain that an adoption had fallen through for them, the "how sure are you" question...80%. I can't tell you how many times I wanted to ask that, to measure it somehow. You can't measure love. My version of the question ended up sounding more like, "Are you sure you're not going to have any regrets about this?" In the movie, Garner wants to paint the nursery. Hubby tells her it's too early, yet. While his motive was different than my own husband's motive, I heard that many times. I just wanted something tangible. Something I could touch that would say, "Hey world, I'm going to be a mommy, too. I'm worthy, too. Stop feeling sorry for me. This thing is going to happen." Kevin didn't want me to be heartbroken. I, too, had to wait to paint the nursery.

The reason I really love this movie, is because Ellen Page shows incite to the struggles a birthmother faces. The struggles aren't necessarily the same, but they are difficult nonetheless. I couldn't help but notice in the movie that Juno was walking against the current of students in the hallways at school, against the grain. She was amazed at this little life inside of her, cared about it, nurtured it. She's a real person, with real feelings, not some inferior human being as many of the world, like the sonagram tech and the school secretary in the movie stereotype. Any female in the world who has ever had unprotected sex out of wedlock could be Juno. The next time you see a young pregnant mother in the grocery store, instead of thinking what a floozy she is, I hope you'll appreciate the difficult path she has chosen, whether she keeps the baby as her own or places it for adoption.

Kevin and I feel extremely protective of Jack's birthmom. She has given us the most precious gift anyone has ever given us. How could anyone think less of her? I appreciate that the ending of the movie shows how Juno's life goes on. That's what adoption should be, a solution for all. We learn from our mistakes, thankfully God has the grace to turn them into blessings.

Ok...so, it's been a while. I'm sure my blog is rarely visited anymore it's been so long. Well, the new year brings a new resolve to keep my blog updated. I will take the time to update it, so I would appreciate it if you take the time to comment. Say, "hello;" let me know you're out there!



To make up for my posting deficiencies in 2007, I'm posting memories from the year.

• January~We decided to move to Mississippi to be closer to Kev's mom, and put the house on the market with a realtor.
  
• February~The house sold in about a week. We accepted a contract, shopped for a house in Mississippi and moved all before February 21. It was a whirlwind month to say the least. Jack saw his first snow while visiting MS for a house shopping trip. Can I just say that I hate boxes?
  
• March~We have never been sicker. Jack is usually healthy, but a new town brought a new set of germs. He became sick our second day or so in MS and couldn't stay well just about the whole month of March. Kev and I got sick, too.
  
• April~Jack turned 1 on April 4th, and Easter was on April 8th. We celebrated Jack's birthday on Easter with the family so all of his grandparents could be here. Uncle D and Uncle Tim's fams also came. I was sad that we weren't in P'ville where our "home friends" could come to Jack's party. We had Easter before lunch and birthday after lunch. Jack had a blast and knew it was his big day. It was unseasonably cool for April. Jack loved hunting Easter eggs and digging into his Easter basket. He wanted to find the eggs, examine them carefully, and return them to their secret spot. Uncle Kev and Aunt Cindy were repaid for all of the awesome gifts we'd given to nieces and nephews over the years when Jack received his first drum. Thanks Aunt Kristy! He still bangs on that thing. I was finally confirmed in the Catholic church the next week. It was a very emotional day for me. I waited almost 3 years for this.
  
• May~I know it was my birthday and Mother's Day. I celebrated both on the same day. Kevin separated them for me. He's an angel. I went to my first ever Gum Tree Festival. Other than that it was a very busy work month for me. Jack started daycare. I started thinking that I missed the classroom and wanted to go back into teaching. It's hard moving to a new place when you work inside the home and your child is too young to participate in community activities.
  
• June~My brother-in-law's National Guard unit was activated stateside to cover for an overseas group in Virginia, leaving Amanda at home with a 1 year old and a turkey in the oven. He also had to spend a few weeks in New Orleans for war games. I felt terrible to be four hours away from my little sis when he was gone. I applied for a classroom job and was hired the day I interviewed, pending board approval of course. I was sooooo excited! What was I thinking? Did I forget about all the preparation that goes into being a teacher? Kev and I took our first trip together since Jack was born. We went to the beach and left Jack with Granny. We were only gone a few days and had a great time. We didn't take Jack because he wasn't walking very sturdy yet. All we could do was think about him and wonder what he was doing. Every little kid we saw was Jack to us. We ate well, very well. :) We rested, too. On the last day, though, I was dressed and ready to go see my little coconut before Kev was even awake. He still thinks that's funny.
• July~A very pregnant Amanda and Mallory came for the 4th of July. I truly enjoyed seeing my little sister. We took the kids to the fireworks in the park. It was sticky hot, but Mallory and Jack had so much fun. There was surprise parade through the neighborhood. We watched the kids riding ATVs, motorcycles, bicycles, and a flatbed trailer from our front yard. WGU had graduation in July. So, I got to see my buddies in SLC. My favorite part of graduation was seeing Ngozika graduate. She is the most inspirational person I've ever met. Nothing has ever come easy for her.
  
  
• August~Welcome to the world Cousin Savannah! She is a beautiful bundle of joy! Her mommy thinks she looks like me, but I don't see it. I went back to the classroom teaching 4th grade.



• September~lesson planning, paper grading, parent calling, lesson planning, meetings, paper grading, lesson planning...Need I say more?




• October~Family sponsored charity golf tournament. Kevin's mom works hard all year planning for this. Kevin played a larger roll in the planning this year. The tournament was successful. We all had a great time. Thanks to all who supported the fund raiser for the Sanctuary Hospice House. We took Jack to the most pitiful pumpkin patch I've ever seen. He didn't care. He had fun jumping the ruts in field. It was all about Jack. Jack was the cutest Elvis you've ever seen for Halloween. He didn't like the costume at first, because of the big collar. Once he realized he was going to get to listen to Elvis music, ride in his red wagon, AND people were giving him candy all at the same time...he had a blast.



• November~We spent Thanksgiving with my family in Alabama. This is the first time in a few years we have done so. It's so hard fitting everyone into our short trips. I spent all my time off traveling. I was beyond tired when I returned to school. I can't do that anymore. We deserve restful vacations too.


• December~I stayed so busy with school planning for Christmas Around the World that I had no time, and little money, for Christmas shopping. Christmas in Mexico was a success, and I finally had some time, and money, for Christmas shopping. Jack was good about the tree. He rarely touched the ornaments and brought them to me when he did. He didn't like the way the needles fell to the floor as we got it situated in the living room. He wiped them with paper towels. :) Amanda and Mallory visited in early December. Cousin Savannah stayed with Nana. Her Daddy was activated again for a few weeks in the Gulf of Mexico. We had so much fun! We all, including Kevin, went to the Christmas parade Saturday morning. The kids love the pets from the humane shelter and the horses best. Then Amanda and I took the kids to Disney on Ice that night. I have never seen Jack sit so still. They were absolutely mesmerised. When we left, Mallory kept saying, "Go Cinderella!" She loves her Uncle Kevin. They played, played, played. Kevin kept the kids after Disney on Ice so my lil sis and I could go out to dinner. It's been forever since we could go out together.
  
  

  

  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

  

Update

Sorry! Jack and I both got very sick during the move. We were out of commission for 2-3 weeks. I promise to update by the weekend. Thanks for being so patient, or eager in your case, Jen. :)

MOVING DAY is Monday...
So much to do, so little time!

It's a Chihuly...and I want one!

This pic was taken at WGUs graduation in SLC, UT, notice the Mormon Temple in the background. I have seen Dave Chihuly pieces at hotels around the city on privious trips. This one was at Abravanel Hall. They are spectatular pieces. I just want a small one for my new house. I can't afford it. I've never been so amazed and attached to a piece of artwork before, but I love it!!! I've seen them hung as chandeliers, but this one is on the main floor of the hall. You can't tell from the photo, but the people are actually walking past it on the second level.

I waaaaaannnnnt one!!!!

Peek-a-boo!

Jack-rabbit loves to play peek-a-boo with the dogs when they're outside. He pulls the blinds back over and over to jump out at them. I finally took the time to snap a quick photo. :)

Jack's First Snow

We went to MS to look at houses last weekend. While we were at Grandma's, it snowed...unexpectedly. If you're from the South, you know how disappointing it is to go to sleep with the VERY REMOTE HOPE of snow, more like a wish. It was magical to wake to the white stuff when we weren't expecting it. Here are a couple pics of Jack's very first snow. He didn't know what to think!

SOLD!

We decided to sell the house with an agent Monday of last week. Kevin and I knew we needed to come out with a certain amount of equity. We prayed about it. We had two contract offers for the right amount by Friday. Saturday, we accepted one. So, we close in 2 1/2 weeks. Crazy I know. We're looking for houses in Mississippi right now. We narrowed the list from 31 to 10 this week. So, I looked at 8 houses today. We're looking at 2 more Friday. We hope to make an offer by Saturday. I'm exhausted!

Congratulations
Amanda & Tony!

My little sis is having a baby sister or brother for Mallory. We are so excited for you!

Catching up...

I'M SORRY!!! I'd ask for a 25-hour day, but someone would just fill it up with stuff for me to do. I don't even have time to read!

Christmas was wonderful. Jack is such a blessing. We celebrated the Saturday before Christmas with some local friends. Our tradition is to have them all over to our house for taco soup and exchange gifts. It was a fun time, and I love to entertain. Sunday was Christmas Eve. We went to church, and we celebrated with my family that night. Granny and Papa enjoyed the new grandies this year. Jack enjoyed watching us open gifts. He didn't really get the hang of it, but hey...the paper sure was fun to play with after the grown-ups tore it off the boxes! Jack had fun playing with his gifts, and Mallory had fun playing with, well...Jack gifts. :) Hers were pretty much the exact same...she just wanted to make sure, though. Cousins Christian and Katelyn sure are growing fast! Christian is now 10, and Katelyn is almost 7. Where does the time go? Santa came that night. We woke up and played with all the cool things Santa brought Jack on Monday morning. Then, we went to Christmas Mass and headed to Tupelo to visit Grandma. Jack finally got to meet Erin. She's the only girl in her generation and one of Jack's biggest fans. She was also the last cuz to meet him. She goes to college farther away than the boys. He had a blast playing with everyone in Tupelo. It was nice to rest our arms for a change. In fact, he was carried so much it's a wonder he still knows how to crawl or stand. He was definitely spoiled to say the least. By the time our celebrating was done, I counted up that it had been 9 whole days since Kevin, Jack, and I had been at our home, alone, for dinner. We were exhausted. Jack was back on schedule after about 3 days. :)

I'll try to get some photos up by Friday.

Happy New Year!

A day of firsts...

Yaaaaay Jack and Mallory!!!
Tuesday, Mallory cut her first tooth; and Jack said "DaDa."

Jack is also very mobile. He now crawls from room to room. He has this facination with doors and cords right now. Biscuit remains his favorite thing to look at, though. He is amazed by him.

Were your children captivated by your pets?

Visiting Santa Claus

This a picture from Jack and Cousin Mallory's first visit to see Santa. I have one of him by himself, but wanted to include Mallory. :) It's hard to tell that she's actually older than him, isn't it?

Family Pics~October

I am so blessed!

I love his little vest with the dark background and blocks. It looks "old-timey." None of his shoes fit that day. Now I always keep a pair in the next size up.

6 Month Pics~October

With his favorite sleeping buddy

He had just started standing. You can't tell...but I was just inches away, terrified he'd fall.

What a sweet baby!

These were all taken right after his second haircut. I didn't like the straight bangs.