tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46778790470989407002024-03-08T11:52:43.282-05:00A Day in the Life of...It is not what you have in life, but what you make of it...Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.comBlogger159125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-18260864371916720452013-02-27T10:12:00.001-05:002013-02-27T10:13:00.018-05:00Lead by example...Heres my latest God experience... Over the past few months, the thought/guilt of not being the most vocal example of a Christian to my children has been weighing on my heart and mind, a lot. I want to raise my boys to accept Christ and to be Christian men, but I don't do nearly enough out loud with the boys in this subject. I am a Christian, and I feel I am an example in areas of their lives showing this, but not enough teaching of Christ. After conversations with many around me, I know that it starts with me, and that I must lead by example, but especially for my boys at a young age, that it comes through reading and talking about God as well. <br />Well, it's been a physical reminder that God is present with Liam. I think nearly every day, "can a person just be born a Godly person?" I think this because Liam is at the stage where he LOVES books. The first thing in the morning "book?" The last thing at night "book?" The importance here though is that the books he choses are all children's bible stories. Now, it could be a coincidence that he choses these books, they're bigger, have big letters, and are colorful but it's constant and if I hide them, he goes through every one until he finds them. He enjoys other books and will look at them all day long, but his NEED for these bible stories turns wheels in my head about Liam's character. He knows who Jesus is in pictures before I point Him out, and to be honest, I can't recall ever saying "that right there is Jesus". He says Jesus clearly... It fascinates me. After talking with Dean about this, he prompted a new idea. That maybe while Liam was technically dead on the table while Dr. Rick worked on him, that Liam saw Jesus. Maybe Jesus was holding Liam in his arms telling him that he would do great things. Maybe. I mean, Liam has been doing this bible book thing for months and months, it's just now starting to intrigue me, or guilt me or... or...<br /><br />So these thoughts have prompted conversations, and because I try not to deny my children's interests, I read Liam stories from the children's bible, from the bible story books... But I don't read my bible... <br /><br />I fail at consistency on the blessing, on praying with my children and taking them to church. These things weigh on my mind, my conscience and my heart. I find excuses, or I simply just forget. <br /><br />Last night guilt got the best of me, and I decided to read my Daily Devotional for Mothers. I thought ok, let this say something to me. <br />Yesterday's entry was from a women, who's best friends son called telling her, her best friend passed away. The women knew this, as the friend was sick, and the day before shared her worry about her 17 year old son not being a Christian. The dying mother repeated the name Monica over and over in her last dying words to her son. The son then called her best friend asking who is this Monica? The dying mother had spoke of a story of Monica (from the Bible) praying out in the garden of St. Augustine for her sons conversion to Christ. For her son to accept God and be saved... The story goes on to where when the dead women's best friend told the son this story, how years later he had been saved and done great things in the community, but showed the importance of teaching your children about God...<br /><br />This of course stopped me, and I thought, well that's weird. I took the story and applied it to "I need to make sure my children accept Christ so that I know I will see them again and they don't go to Hell!" <br />I then decided to play "Russian Roulette" with my bible. I do this by closing my eyes, flipping to a page and saying "speak to me God". Right under my finger, <br /><br />"Discipline your children while there is hope, otherwise you will ruin their lives" -Proverbs 20:18<br /><br />I'm sure God was smirking upstairs just saying, see I'm here, I'm ALWAYS here... I just don't look or listen... <br />I laughed to myself about this and fell fast asleep. <br /><br />This morning I reflected on the conversations I had with my Pastor, my friends, Dean and my mother in law. I feel it's on my mind constantly, but in the same thought feel I don't know what type of Christian I am. How good I am at being a Christian. I have this persona of a Christian, being so far out there. I don't know WHY I think this. I know Christians who have bible study shooting pool, drinking a beer... I know"super Christians" that don't do anything but eat, sleep, breathe the bible or church... I guess I'm somewhere in between, and because I don't have a flashing neon sign saying I'm doing it right, I now not only have doubts with religion in a whole, but NOW I'm doubting myself. Add another tally mark Mr. Devil...<br /><br />I find myself worrying about what others think of me, how they'll perceive me, if they'll support me. It always gets the best of me. Do people know I'm a<br />Christian without me saying so? They need to... But does that mean I can't do this or that... No. I guess no...? Does a Christian look a certain way, speak differently, live in a church and only watch God shows and read the bible? No, some do, but that's not what makes a Christian. <br />In theory, anyone can be a Christian but speaking for myself, I want people to know I'm a Christian by my actions, by my character, by my children, my attitude and my heart. It doesn't mean I need to dress different, or speak different, no. But I do need to speak more, to act more and to show more. Not just for my children, but for myself and for those I may never actually speak to. <br /><br />I know I'm a great mother in most areas of my life, but just as important as I think it is to show my children by example love, manners, politeness, support... I need to show them by example of being a Christian and lead them to know God. <br /><br />I feel this is an important story to share, because I feel God showed me last night in my doubts and my struggle that He is there. That He knew I needed a reminder and that I just have to trust Him and let Him guide me. (You too). :) <br /><br />Xoxo<br />Shylah<br /><br />Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-35861450290578313072013-01-30T20:46:00.000-05:002013-01-30T23:37:45.696-05:00A Miracle turns TWO...<div style="text-align: justify;">
Happy Birthday to my sweet baby boy, Liam!</div>
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Every January, about two weeks before Liam's birthday and up to it, I find it hard not to get emotional. I think back to all the things I was doing around this time, just two short years ago. I was pregnant with my last child (planned and discussed), I was chasing a two year old around and preparing to deliver what we thought would be a healthy baby boy in the next few months...<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CMkEWQIn6LY/UQfhVU3DfmI/AAAAAAAAFzU/571hNmSwiqk/s1600/IMG_6502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CMkEWQIn6LY/UQfhVU3DfmI/AAAAAAAAFzU/571hNmSwiqk/s320/IMG_6502.JPG" width="179" /></a>When Dean was home at the beginning of January, we had gone to Johnson City for some errands, and to take Dean to the airport. The entire drive, we reminisced on the time that Liam spent in the NICU. How the road we were on was driven multiple times a day and could be done in our sleep. How Nana, Dean's mom had drove immediately after Liam was life flighted away, keeping the helicopter that held our sweet boy in her sights the entire time. Being thankful for the fact that Liam had a visitor every day while he spent those long aching weeks away from home. That the nurses loved our son and helped him get better. Then, we stopped, looked in the back seat at our two boys, but especially to Liam, headphones on, reciting the alphabet train while rocking out with "Blue". We just smiled knowing how extremely blessed, lucky and complete we are to have Liam. And honestly, how truly amazing that little boy is!<br />
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It's hard to look past the bouncing boy that Liam is today, and remember how fragile his life was in the beginning. The not knowing if he would survive the first few weeks of life, or that if he did, he could be faced with so many challenges ahead. To the hard, trying days of being a mother, a family, that had to trust the NICU doctors and nurses to "mother" our child, to tend to his brand new needs, to thinking, we really are so lucky and Liam truly is a miracle. <br />
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I am sure many that read my blog around this time of year think... "ok, enough, he's fine", and he is... It's just so difficult on his birthday to not <em>really</em> remember what we all had to go through just to have him now. I can only imagine when he's a teenager, when he's an adult, and when he welcomes his own children into this world how emotional and amazing it will be to look back on his journey... </div>
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OK, so TODAY! Today at 11:48 am, Liam David Ward turned TWO!!! Where has the time gone?? Liam is amazing. He went from a mere 4lbs 2oz to 24lbs 8oz! He is 32" tall, and boy is he BUSY! </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RGNRdV1UxFY/UQfhrtXoi6I/AAAAAAAAFzc/-p1qd76vyLw/s1600/IMG_7716.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RGNRdV1UxFY/UQfhrtXoi6I/AAAAAAAAFzc/-p1qd76vyLw/s320/IMG_7716.JPG" width="320" /></a>Liam's favorite thing to do right now is being read to and anything to do with books. He absolutely loves books! He loves sitting for story time, turning the pages, and spending countless hours a day retrieving a new book, looking at the pictures and chewing on them. :) He knows all of his letters even in random order and is learning the phonics of each letter. He can count to 12, although we are a little concerned that he switches languages on us during them. He switches at seven, and then goes on sounding German for the next few... Lol. He's such a goof!</div>
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He loves to torment Big Brother, and does so very well. His favorite shows are Blues Clues, The Wiggles and Mickey Mouse. Liam loves cars, trucks, especially monster trucks (hurray!) anything to do with the alphabet and shapes. When he's not wrecking havoc in the house and with Jaxon, Liam can be found in the corner of the playroom, quiet as a mouse just looking through books and pointing out the things he recognizes! Liam loves to dance, and loves music as much as the rest of us. Any type of instrument captures his attention, and he'll spend hours strumming on his guitar and sitting still just listening to children's songs. He is also turning into our sports boy. He will race throughout the house yelling touchdown with his arms raised above his head. And he'll jump up with Dean and I cheering on our team during the game. If we go to a restaurant with a tv turned to a sporting event, good luck with getting his attention. Lol </div>
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Liam is no longer my star eater, although he is still much better than Jax. I guess the toddler years are filled with picky eaters, but he does like food, just of his choice. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EqcIHNX5PiM/UQfkphffflI/AAAAAAAAFzs/N_hBogycIjQ/s1600/IMG_7440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EqcIHNX5PiM/UQfkphffflI/AAAAAAAAFzs/N_hBogycIjQ/s320/IMG_7440.JPG" width="238" /></a>Last week, he had his 2 year NICU appointment. He shocked all the nurses and Dr. Bondt was pretty happy to see Liam being a normal two year old. He scored above average for his <strong>actual</strong> age and will no longer be assessed with his adjusted age. Some area's he scored less on paper than he does in real life, but I wasn't too concerned as it was three hours past his nap and I didn't blame him for not cooperating. After Dr. Bondt came in to evaluate him, he said that the clinic would no longer need to see him as he was <strong>JUST FINE!</strong> While I always detested the NICU appointments deeming them pointless in Liam's development, I am happy to see that he passed each and every appointment with flying colors, and now is no longer considered in the "high risk" category. Of course, he may have things that come up later in his life, but if they do, we will deal with them then. </div>
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We are over joyed with all Liam has given our family and especially with him turning two!!! We love BIG BOY and are SO proud of you!!</div>
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Love,</div>
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Mommy, Daddy and Jaxon</div>
Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-49891431954949746302013-01-09T13:00:00.000-05:002013-01-09T13:00:11.374-05:00A bit of inspiration...<div style="text-align: justify;">
I stumbled across this blog through Facebook... I had no intentions on even reading one entry because I knew it dealt with a mother losing a child. Curiosity got the best of me, and I ended up reading each and every post starting with this one... the first. </div>
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<a href="http://stumblingtowardsperfect.blogspot.com/2012/11/averyday-god-girl-extraordinaire-part-1.html" target="_blank">http://stumblingtowardsperfect.blogspot.com/2012/11/averyday-god-girl-extraordinaire-part-1.html</a></div>
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For most of you, you will read the first entry, and stop there. Yes. It mentions God. Yes. It is a mother grieving the loss of a child. Yes. There is deep reference to religion. Yes. There is raw emotion. Hurt, desperation, anger... All the above are the same reasons I didn't intend of reading this myself. </div>
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You don't have to be a Christian to respect good writing. You don't have to be a Christian to get anything out of these entries, but if you are like me and teeter on the rail of doubt, truth and trying to understand faith... then you will greatly benefit from the work of this mother, the voice of her precious baby girl... </div>
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Here is the blog address: <a href="http://stumblingtowardsperfect.blogspot.com/">http://stumblingtowardsperfect.blogspot.com/</a></div>
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I am in awe of this mothers strength to preserver through her daughter. For her strength to be able to cope through writing. To shelter her daughter's innocence and to spread the message of an 11 year old. I am humbled to have read many of the same characteristics that I see in myself, to be so confused in faith, church, religion, ladida... I think this mother is a true inspiration, and that so far her work is simply, amazing.</div>
Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-58486998758788859012012-12-31T19:17:00.001-05:002012-12-31T19:17:56.071-05:00Auld Lang Syne...<div style="text-align: justify;">
Happy New Year!!!!</div>
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What a year the Ward Family had in 2012!!! As Dean and I like to say, another year gone, and we have still kept our children alive! :) </div>
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We've lived in three states as a family, Dean... four or five, and with all the traveling, it's nice to know that we will be ringing in the New Year in the comfort of HOME together as a family! Of course Dean will be leaving shortly after to his next endeavor, in Boulder, CO., but it's nice to be celebrating this holiday as a whole! </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NTE_LAnLFCE/UOHnWBQ3NkI/AAAAAAAAFig/r3RKRJllR10/s1600/IMG_6059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NTE_LAnLFCE/UOHnWBQ3NkI/AAAAAAAAFig/r3RKRJllR10/s320/IMG_6059.JPG" width="239" /></a>First off in 2012 Dean took a job with another wind company, Gamesa. He started off in PA, and shortly after his training was complete, was sent to Pocahontas, IA where he spent four months off and on. While he was in IA, the boys and I held the fort down in TN only seeing Dean every thirty days for his monthly R&R. After the initial time away, we quickly decided that being together was much easier on the boys, and so if we couldn't feasibly "move" with him, that we would visit for extended stays. The end of May was my first trek across the mid-west, driving solo with both boys to the Upper Peninsula, MI. Thankfully we had the help of our landlord with the puppies, and after a long month away from them, chose to no longer travel with them staying behind. Sadly, after our MI trip and a few weeks home in TN, I noticed that Argo had trouble with his balance and running, and after two or three trips to the vet, he was diagnosed with Wobblers Syndrome. Unfortunately Wobblers claimed him in August. Despite his diagnoses, we made the most out of his life, and traveled with him for the month of August back to the UP in MI and gave him the most fun filled thirty days. Swimming off the dock every day, left over dinner, snuggles on the bed and getting away with pretty much everything. When we came back to TN towards the end of the month is when we had to say goodbye. I think about him nearly every day, and I know that Jaxon misses him dearly. He was such a happy pup, and such a good part of our family. <br />
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After a week back at home, the boys and I turned around and headed to Albert Lea, MN where we have been for the last 4 months together. It was hard at times being away from "home", but we met some forever family friends, and stayed really busy!!!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--LIXebSJqKY/UOHn680nEgI/AAAAAAAAFi0/NUVfZ_eQzKg/s1600/IMG_6755.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--LIXebSJqKY/UOHn680nEgI/AAAAAAAAFi0/NUVfZ_eQzKg/s320/IMG_6755.JPG" width="239" /></a>Other than the whole moving across country, we've had another amazing year with the boys. Lets see here... Jax started the early stages of reading, finally learned how to ride his tricycle, had his first major injury after stubbing his toe nearly off, became a pro at shuffling DVD's in and out of the dvd player, was a ring bearer for the third time, had his first crush, learned how to drive a powerwheel, learned how to go under water, count to 100, write (somewhat legibly), sing at the top of his lungs, and buckle his car seat straps. Jaxon turned four in November, and immediately after, he decided that he would try new foods, eat better, and share his toys more. Of course he learned a bazillion other things, but he had a great year and I can't wait to see how this next year will go for him. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vJ7quaxsyCA/UOHojpG9KHI/AAAAAAAAFjI/zrGdkL87bhk/s1600/IMG_5892.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vJ7quaxsyCA/UOHojpG9KHI/AAAAAAAAFjI/zrGdkL87bhk/s320/IMG_5892.JPG" width="239" /></a>Liam also had a big year! He learned so much and is doing so many things. He started off 2012 turning one, and was just learning how to walk. Now he's full force ahead and on the go. He has had some rough moments through teething and every time he gets a cold, he gets a cold and then some, so those moments weren't so great, but he seems to have gotten over the worst of the cold and flu season. Liam loves to color and is quite good at it. He also loves book time, and I'm so proud to say that he knows all of his letters by sight and sound, and can count to ten! He loves letters just like Jax did at his age, and so he makes it easy to help him learn! He learns a few new phrases and words each week and his personality is really starting to show. His favorite word is NO!, and when he says it, Dean and I can't help but laugh. He is growing like a weed, and before our move to MN was wearing a range in clothing from 6-9 months, and now is wearing 2T! He is always on the go and sometimes it's hard to even get a snuggle out of him. He's a bit of a bully and I think he learned that although he is smaller in size to Jax, he's much more solid and uses that to his advantage! He is such a funny boy and SO different than Jax. They say that your children will be different, but they really are night and day different!<br />
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I can't imagine my life without either of them, and together they are the best (sometimes the worst) part of my day, and although they fight like brothers, they also love like brothers and friends! </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ptl0rwZ1E1I/UOH_Ve87Q7I/AAAAAAAAFuE/HeZ-CrofxCU/s1600/IMG_7563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ptl0rwZ1E1I/UOH_Ve87Q7I/AAAAAAAAFuE/HeZ-CrofxCU/s320/IMG_7563.JPG" width="239" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-POUiQUyw8E8/UOHncYedx_I/AAAAAAAAFio/YoAdE6M0T1s/s1600/IMG_6709.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-POUiQUyw8E8/UOHncYedx_I/AAAAAAAAFio/YoAdE6M0T1s/s200/IMG_6709.JPG" width="200" /></a>I, myself, have just been managing the boys, playing travel agent and trying to enjoy the most out of being together as a family. I did make some great friends on our trips, and can't wait to plan a girls reunion in 2013! I am also going to be an Aunt AGAIN!!! I will have two more babies to spoil this upcoming year! My sister in law's, Rachel and Amanda are expecting and we'll have a nephew and a niece/nephew in the spring!!! I am also in the process of homeschooling Jax, although I haven't really gotten too much going as he was in school for the last 4 months. With our travel schedule I plan on doing as much homeschooling as I can before he needs to be in school full time. Aside from that, I got addicted to Pinterest, and have a handful of crafts that have been started and need to be finished, and a long list of do-to's on the way. At the beginning of October, I started at home workout videos, and must say that 25 minutes a day has done my body good. I don't know why I waited until my youngest was almost two to try and shed the lingering baby weight, but I am only 5lbs away from my HS weight! I still have to figure out the whole eating healthy thing, but for now, I'm waaaaaaaay ahead of my New Years Resolution!!! <br />
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Outside of traveling to be with Dean, we had two family trips this year. Our first was to WA over the summer, and that was a lot of fun. We got to visit with all of our friends and family, and celebrate 4th of July on the Columbia River! In October, we vacationed with the other side of the family, and celebrated Halloween at Disney World! This was the most fun there yet! Jaxon was able to ride almost all of the rides this time around, and despite plaguing everyone in our sights with our colds, we really had a great time!!! </div>
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For 2013, there will be some major changes for us, as we've discussed the possibility of leaving TN to break up the time spent with our families. We aren't certain on the exact details yet, but are planning on living in WA for six months and then in FL for the other six months of the year. This will all be dependent on where we are at with Dean, but I want the boys and I to enjoy each side of our families equally. Our first choice will always be together as a family, but sometimes there are projects that just wouldn't work with moving a family for. So hopefully after a few months of resting, planning and getting Dean's work schedule, we'll know more! </div>
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I can't think of too many things to regret in 2012, but am looking forward to starting a new year and seeing where it takes us! </div>
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I hope everyone has had a great year, and wish you all the best for 2013!!!</div>
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Happiness and Love,</div>
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Dean, Shylah, Jaxon, Liam and Nash<br />
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<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/sdhanson7/AYearInReview?authuser=0&feat=directlink">https://picasaweb.google.com/sdhanson7/AYearInReview?authuser=0&feat=directlink</a></div>
Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-30955476749821281902012-12-03T11:53:00.001-05:002012-12-03T11:53:39.491-05:00Scattered, Smothered and Covered...<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hello!!!!!</div>
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So over the past few weeks I have been on a crash course of trying to get my blood pressure under control at the Mayo Clinic, as well as figure out why I am having some nerve issues in my arms.</div>
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I have been to so many doctor's appointments, I am exhausted, and with them testing, changing meds, and trying to lower my bp, I have been a bit out of it. I'm hoping that very soon they will get me on the right track, but that may mean several more changes, tests and trials... Blah. Anyways, that kind of explains my absence from my blog. </div>
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Besides that, I have had several craft days with the boys and I must say that Christmas time is my new favorite holiday. Even though we will not be in this house for the Christmas, we bought a little tree, and decorated the house all over! It's very festive in the Ward "home away from home"! Jax is so excited to wake up knowing that it's a day closer to Santa! (We're still working on the <em>real reason for Christmas is...</em>)But it's definitely a thrill to see his excitement grow. This year will be great!!! </div>
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I failed miserably at the "30 days of Thankfulness" so to sum it all up... I am blessed beyond measure with the friends and family I have in my life. For the roof over my head, food on my table, and the clothing on mine and each of my three boys' backs. I am grateful and very thankful for my husband having a job, and one that allows me to be a SAHM. I am thankful for the fact, that even with the mass amount of health challenges I am faced w/daily, that it's not been more than an inconvenience and that I am hopefully within sight of some answers. I am so extremely thankful for my children. Words can not express the love I have for those two little boys. I am forever thankful for my husband, for loving me and providing for our family the way that he does day in, day out. </div>
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It's been a hard past few weeks on me personally, but without the support of my husband and my friends and family, I'd be lost!</div>
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Hope everyone found many, many reasons this year to be thankful! Now let the countdown to Christmas begin!! </div>
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I love you all and hope everyone is doing well!</div>
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Xoxo</div>
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Shylah</div>
Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-69089718095129390402012-11-17T09:52:00.002-05:002012-11-17T09:52:53.239-05:00FOUR!!<div style="text-align: justify;">
First of all... FOUR? I have a 4 year old... what?!?!?</div>
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Oh Man!!!</div>
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More importantly, Happy Birthday Jaxon! And Dean, we kept our first human pet alive for four years! Yay us!!!</div>
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In honor of Jaxon's birthday, I started doing this last year with him, and I wrote a little poem for him on his special day! No words can say just how proud I am of Jax and how lucky I am to be his Mommy!</div>
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Happy Birthday Big Boy!!</div>
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You are FOUR Today... <br /> <br />1,460 days ago, I laid eyes on you for the first time. <br />It took you a few moments, and that's when I first heard you cry... <br />I couldn't get past how perfect you were, something all new parents say, but perfect is what you were and I say that still today...<br />Those precious first moments just you and I, and those moments that I still cherish to this day...<br /> <br />Your first year was breathtaking. Discovering who you were, a journey which will never end... <br />Your smile, what made you laugh, the foods you loved and hated, your favorite toys, and all your "firsts" <br />I tracked every milestone, counting down the days till you turned one... Looking back now, I wish I could have waited... <br /> <br />As you grew and grew and grew, it dawned on us that soon you would be two!! <br />Your personality really came out this year, as we compared you to who you took after more.<br />You were no longer our baby, as "Big Boy" was used much more. <br />Your big boy bed, potty training, a tricycle, your first puppy and that you'd be a "Big Brother"...<br />Who knew that in just one year, how BIG you'd be at TWO! <br /> <br />When you turned three, I said the same thing I hear myself continuing to say... <br />How fast the time has flown and where did my baby go? <br />Year three is the last I have to compare to, but just like the year before, it was the most fun by far! <br />Your personality, your communication. How you're so playful, loving, and funny. Your jokes, snuggles, and that you love playing games so much. You are learning SO fast and discovering who YOU are... As we go into your next year, I hope you know how much I enjoyed you being three!<br /> <br />Now that you are FOUR, I will wait patiently to see where this year takes you.<br />I will enjoy seeing you learn, build friendships and be in awe of you just as I have in each passing year before, of how funny, smart, and talented you are. <br />I will take in your every cuddle, snuggle, kiss and hug. <br />I will encourage you to try new things, to push yourself farther just to know you can do it. To hold you when you are scared (and secretly love when you still come to me for protection) </div>
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I will let you and your brother squabble knowing that at the end of the day you will give each other such loving hugs and goodnight kisses... <br />I will pray for you and I will love you even more... <br /> <br />Jaxon, you have taught me so much in your four years of life, something that I will never be able to put into words. You amaze me each and every day. <br />You have truly been the greatest gift of all. <br />Happy Birthday Bug! <br /> <br />Xoxo -Mommy</div>
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Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-1560896973587096692012-11-11T12:46:00.001-05:002012-11-11T14:11:28.298-05:00Thank you...<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: ".Helvetica NeueUI"; font-size: 17px;">Thank you to our Veterans, past and present for protecting our country and my rights to be free.</span></div>
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Thank you to the families who have sacrificed so much to let loved ones; defend, serve and protect our freedom. Thank to the ones who never returned, you will never be forgotten! </div>
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"This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave". -Elmer Davis</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite Veteran... </td></tr>
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Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-38990595362991916422012-11-03T23:22:00.000-04:002012-11-03T23:22:27.854-04:0030 Days of Thanks...Welcome to November... a month full of blessings. First off, we have Thanksgiving. We also have so many awareness causes like March of Dimes and National Prematurity Awareness Month, MOvember (Male Health Awareness), <span style="color: black;">Pancreatic Cancer</span> Awareness Month and I am sure there are so many more, but those are what we are personally a part of...<br />
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I really enjoyed posting 30 days of Thankfulness last year, and I plan on doing it again this year... since I am a few days behind on several other posts, I will more than likely combine a weeks worth and post at the end of each week... but to get started, I will post the first three days now... <br />
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I am always very thankful for my life and all the things I try not to take for granted, however writing them down really drives it home... <br />
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I hope everyone has a wonderful November and can take part in this "challenge" too!<br />
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Xoxo<br />
Shylah<br />
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Day 3: Thankful for Dean allowing me the last few hours to upload photo's and get caught up on computer stuff. It may seem silly, but I am so behind with my "family" things and doing the things that keep me close to others so far away, that it feels good to even get one overdue thing done! :)<br />
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Day 2: Thankful for silly reminders that my children are in fact mine, and that reading the Bernstein Bears (after racing to the library for a specific "lesson") books to them, just as my mom had read to me, brings back such great memories of my mom's loving ways to help me learn a lesson. Tonight, "The Gimmies" and "Those in Need" :) I've been cracking up all week reading my past but enjoying each one even more as the parent!<br />
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Day 1: Thankful for the reminder in MOPS tonight about how truly important it is to have the special friends in our lives that are introduced to us and become our safety nets, especially when it comes to being a mom! Annette, Dava, April, Carolyn, Mama Ward (not on FB but also my Mommy, Aunt Terry)... You are just a few I could not live w/out! Thank you for always being there for me when I need you and always offering me laughter, help, advice, vent sessions, tissues, etc. I love you and near or far thankful for you all!!<br />
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<span style="background-color: yellow;"></span>Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-64072570348099479472012-11-03T23:02:00.000-04:002012-11-03T23:02:42.563-04:00Pumpkin Patch and Halloween...<div style="text-align: justify;">
Happy (belated) Halloween!!</div>
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This year's Halloween was very tiring but so much fun. I guess the older your children get and the more involved they get to be, the more you enjoy the fun as a parent. </div>
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I really miss the days of dressing up and having fun myself, but I would never trade it for the fun I am having with my boys!!! We did miss our friends annual Halloween party this year, and Dean and I were both a little bummed especially since it was a 90's themed party... We could have definitely pulled off Zach Morris and Kelly Kapowski! :)</div>
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Anyways back to what we actually did...</div>
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With Jax and Liam both being in school this fall, we had a busy week of dressing up, Halloween parties and running around doing our last minute holiday shopping. At least that made for a light load in actual laundry!! Jax picked our theme again this year, and I guess he based it on popularity as EVERY. OTHER. KID. ON. THE. BLOCK was dressed the same... we were SUPERHERO'S!!! Jaxon was Spiderman, Liam was Superman and Dean and I took the easy route and just wore superhero t-shirts... (Hey better than nothing and still part of the theme). </div>
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For a week before Halloween, I asked Jax if he wanted to do pumpkins this year. His response each time was that he didn't want to get his hands yucky and that he didn't want to carve or paint pumpkins, and that went for Liam too.</div>
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So on Monday around 7 pm he decided that he finally wanted to have a pumpkin... Well that lead to Dean looking for pumpkins on his way home from work, and the boys and I frantically going to each and every store in Albert Lea area only to find that there were no pumpkins sold there or left to purchase. The biggest we found were the micro mini desktop pumpkins and each time we found one, Jax would explain they were much too small to carve and that wouldn't work. There were pumpkin patches in town, but only opened on the weekends with the Saturday before being the last day... Thankfully I found a pumpkin patch about 25 miles from us on Tuesday, and after lunch we ventured out there... It was so much fun. We were missing Dean, but glad that the boys had as much fun as they did, especially with the majority of the pumpkins being picked over already. We stayed there for about 4 hours longer than I anticipated, but I got some great pictures of the boys!!! </div>
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So Halloween Eve, we had a very late night carving pumpkins trying to get the boys' done before they actually went to sleep... Just like the last 2 years, the pumpkins also have themes and this year matched the boys costumes! </div>
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Halloween Day was a full schedule for sure! Liam and I had our class while Jax had his sibling class... then after that we decided to go to a classmates house and have a double play date for the boys... then raced home for naps... and afterwards headed over to yet another classmates house for dinner and trick-or-treating together! Dean luckily got off early enough to have dinner and join us, which we needed all the help we could with 4 kiddies in the dark!!! It was a lot of fun though, and not as cold as we thought it would be, although definitely not our TN trick-or-treating weather... Jax and Liam both had their pumpkins completely filled and then some... Needless to say the last month of me exercising is pretty much pointless now... This candy is going to be here till next year if I don't help them eat <em>some</em> of it right!?!?<br />
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All in all, it was another successful year of fun with my boys!!! I can't even imagine next year with Liam actually having an opinion! :)<br />
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I've posted two new albums to the right that have the Pumpkin Patch photos as well as all the Halloween Night photos. Please check them out!!<br />
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Hope everyone had a fun Halloween as well!<br />
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Love,<br />
Shylah</div>
Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-47480476835169167322012-11-03T19:45:00.003-04:002012-11-03T19:45:52.261-04:00Slacking...Holy Cow! I was certain I had posted at least one thing after my last... nope. I have several post's that need to be published, but am still working on the edits/photo's etc... I will be uploading a few in the next hour/day before the ones that were started will be posted... therefore, don't think you are missing something if you remember reading a post with an earlier date than the last post you just read! <br />
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And with that... Eeek! I've got work to do!!!<br />
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And yes I'm aware something has gone completely weird with my blog template/design... still working on that, but it takes HOURS and I'm already so behind!<br />
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Xoxo<br />
ShylahShylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-33164311295300737402012-11-02T08:30:00.000-04:002012-11-03T23:26:44.898-04:00Just another Friday...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Dean's view when he pulled onto the job site this morning... :)</div>
<br />Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-28220897610337022672012-10-24T11:03:00.000-04:002012-11-04T01:12:07.478-04:00Disney World 2012...<div style="text-align: justify;">
Oh my goodness!! I am seriously so behind on this post!</div>
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So the second week in October of each year has been dubbed "Ward Disney Vacation" week... This year was no exception and omgosh, so much funnier with two kiddo's to enjoy it with, but especially one that knows what everything is this time around!!!</div>
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We had a monthly countdown going for Jax, and by the time we were headed to the airport, he had figured just how many more sleeps and naps he needed before he got to see Mickey!!! It was so cute. We also had Liam pretty excited, but I don't think he really knew what to be excited about. This was Liam's first time to Disney World (after birth), so it was really fun to introduce him to the madness. </div>
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For the most part, we planned a pretty relaxing week with the family. The parks are really expensive and this year Jax was an actual ticket holder... so we planned ahead of time what day we would do what park, how many and that was it. We got a little surprise from Nana and Pops, but more on that later. The resort we stay at is super duper fancy, and has any and everything you could think of on the property, and even more so perfect for the little ones. They have putt-putt golf, water parks, a splash zone, playgrounds, daily children's activities, there's even a few bars in between each area lol... Anyways, we figured we would get the most bang for our buck staying at the condo and enjoying the amenities there... the boys both LOVED our "stay here days"... Swimming pools, lazy rivers, a boardwalk... it was perfect. </div>
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On our first full day, Harrell told Dean about the new theme at the Disney's Art of Animation Resort. So Dean kind of held out wanting to surprise me on this too, but told me a bit about it so I could prepare Jax after nap. I had NO IDEA IT WAS GONNA BE SO AWESOME! Once again, who had more fun, I'm not sure. This was easily the highlight of my trip. Jax and even Liam were in Disney Cars Heaven! I'm so glad we got to visit this resort, as I had planned on another Disney trip to CA for Jaxon's birthday, and that's just not gonna happen this year... by far the coolest experience (well on the heels of Sesame St. Live when Jax was 2). Please be sure to check out the photos on the right for this part! </div>
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Jax ran to each car exclaiming... "It's Lightning... It's Mater!!!! Mommmmeeee it's Guido and Luigi..." Lol. He was SO happy!!! <br />
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After a day of rest and getting adjusted to the heat again, we planned our park schedule. One of the parks we planned on going to was Epcot and specifically, for the "Food and Wine Festival". This is really why the Wards go to Disney in October now, and now I know why... The past trip we made in 2010, everyone but me went to this festival, as I couldn't really justify spending a fortune to try a whole bunch of foreign foods especially being pregnant. Anyways, Dean talked me into it this year by pointing out how many child friendly things they had that he had forgot about, so I decided while he and the rest of the family pigged out, that Jax, Liam and I would go off and have our own fun. </div>
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Let me rewind a few days... <em>so the night before we flew out to FL, I decided to give myself an at home pedicure since I would be in pools and flip flops. So I am almost done and decided to use one of those potato peeler/callous remover thingy's. Everything was going fine when I put my foot up on the chair I was sitting on and at the last second (literally I was just going to stop) my left foot slipped with the shaver/razor blade in the center/arch/sole of my foot... Yeah... Dean was actually at the store, so after I got up and didn't fall over and pass out, I texted him to get some band aids/peroxide yada yada... well super long story short (and yes I learned my lesson), I had about a 1 1/2" gash about 3/4" deep in the bottom of my foot. I actually probably could have used a stitch or two. I also learned in FL that "scalping the sole" was a common torture technique used in WWII... </em>Okay back to the story...<br />
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So here we are in Epcot, and the smell of all these different country's foods were driving my senses nuts. <em>I didn't want to participate in this... I don't try foods... I am BORING.</em> You know what my favorite thing was? Some fish dish from Singapore... yeah go figure that one out... Well we decided to all take part of this, and bring the boys along doing all the fun things with them along the way. They actually did great and had a lot of fun. There were several rides that Jax really enjoyed as did Liam. During this whole day, I think I tried foods from at least 15 countries, and liked most of what I tried. Everyone else was a little more daring than I was, but I thought I did pretty good for someone who would most certainly die outside of the USA.</div>
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So that was our first park day. <br />
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Our second day was allotted for Universal Studio's so that Dean and I could do all the roller coasters I didn't ride the year before... well that all changed because not only was I Mrs. Gimpy Gimp (only you would gash your foot the day before walking everywhere)... so I wanted a day to rest... but also we were the four sick Wards who got to spend seven days with the rest of the family, sharing our festering germs. You guessed it... sick, sick and sick. Nana wasn't feeling good, Dean was still up all night coughing, and the boys and I weren't sleeping well because of all the congestion/drainage we had... so we took another day to hang out at the condo. </div>
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Two days later and a night shopping at Downtown Disney, we kinda passed on the idea and pushed it off one more day meaning that we would be taking ourselves and two boys to Universal on the busiest day of the week... Well because we loved up on Nana enough, she got too sick to attend "Mickey's Not So Spooky Halloween Party". And because she had already purchased tickets, and they were going to treat Jaxon to this, I got to go in her place. So Harrell, Aunt Sara, Jax and I got dressed up to go trick-or-treating at the Magic Kingdom... COOL! First off, we will NEVER pay to go during the day if we come in Oct. again. The tickets are almost half priced, you get the same amount of time (4pm-12pm), yeah it's a little hard on the kids, but you are one of 25k that gets a portion of <strong>9 TONS OF CANDY!!!</strong> This is what they go through each night they do this. (Not every night of course, but still!). Anyways, so we had a ball! Jax even got to dance in the pre-party parade as well as do the Congo line with Goofy! Most importantly, we got a photo that not everyone can say they have. I learned that during Halloween Nights is the ONLY time that all seven of the seven dwarfs are together and photographed together!!! Of course we cut it just a littttle too close... Since Nana was sick, that's all she asked for... one photo! We were the last people in line, and in the standby line, but we got it (as did about 3 more people behind us lol). </div>
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So because I got to do the Magic Kingdom and my ride fix with Jax, and we were out so late the night before, we decided to forgo the adult kid fun at Universal all together and enjoyed our last day as a family just hanging out... <br />
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The entire trip was a lot of fun, well minus the fact we were missing Rachel and Scott and that I was in so much pain from my foot which I also ended up favoring my left foot and was walking on the side of my foot which only caused another area to be sore... the chlorine in the pool was actually the best thing for that, only I was too afraid to have it burn, so I didn't learn this until day 4... By the time we had to fly back out, I was at least able to somewhat walk!</div>
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I look forward to this vacation with the other side of my family each year, and although we were missing some of the crew, we had a really good time and definitely got our Disney fix. Next time it will be even more fun since Liam will be old enough to enjoy more of the park rides!! I love being a part of the Disney Family and sharing so many special memories with my own Ward Family!!!</div>
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Let the countdown begin till next year... </div>
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Xoxo</div>
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Shylah</div>
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Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-30851198004813269552012-09-22T09:30:00.000-04:002012-09-22T09:30:39.253-04:00Five years...<div style="text-align: justify;">
"<em>It is at the beginning of most marriages that we are likely to encounter the real challenges of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">commitment</span>, such as the need to let go of control, the ability to overcome <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">resistance</span> to change, the willingness to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">put</span> aside our ego-desires in <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">favor</span> of shared concerns, and the willingness to to be vulnerable and honest in the face of fear and pain."</em><br />
<em>-Roy Petitfils</em></div>
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Happy Five Year Anniversary to Dean and I!</div>
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Did you know that most couples make it or break it by five years? FIVE years. It's not THAT long, most people have relationships longer than that before committing to marriage, right? Well according to new research, that's not the case anymore. I know that Divorce is on the rise, or should I say, that marriage is on a decline? Whichever it is, I am very blessed to have my marriage, and not just that, but the family my marriage has created and even more so than that, the person I am <strong><em>because</em></strong> of my marriage!</div>
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I think that after a certain amount of time together, that couples finally give into changing or not changing. Not to say that you are expected to change for your spouse, but we no longer think a phase will burn out, and we realize that our partners annoying tendencies are in fact never going to change, and we did in fact marry that person lying beside us. Of course this goes both ways... I had always heard of the seven year itch, but the less common it is for marriages to last, I guess the five year mark is the new standard...</div>
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ANYWAYS... I am not going to compare my marriage to statistics, but I will say that in five years, it's apparent that a MARRIAGE TAKES WORK! It's not all about you anymore, nor is it all about your spouse. It's the marriage you have, that treasure that no one but you and your spouse have the power over. The flirting fun ways you stole each others hearts are often a distant memory, but if you are truly in love with your partner, then while those days might not be as frequent, they definitely still exist. :)</div>
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Adding children to the mix can also bring your marriage responsibilities to a new level. It takes even more team work to keep your marriage a priority! I always try to tell myself that we would not have our children if it weren't for our marriage, but I think Dean and I would agree that our TWO give us so much more, and it makes our relationship even better. </div>
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So lets reflect. Boy meets girl, girl meets boy. GIRL asks out boy, sparks fly. Soon comes the wedding, and a new bundle of joy. Two years into that, comes baby number two... with a whole bunch of love, squabbles and even more love all in between!!</div>
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TODAY! Today I love Dean MORE than I did in our dating years! More when it was just easy and carefree love. More because I have grown to love his faults, his imperfections, and for many, many other reasons. He is my partner, my friend, my ally, my confident. He is the father of my children, he is my HUSBAND!<br />
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While we have most definitely had a wonderful marriage thus far, there have been less than wonderful moments, and times we were so uncertain at where we were. We are also adults now, and we know which things are truly worth fighting for and over, and those that we need to just bite our tongues, and walk away. Nonetheless, we are happy to be celebrating five years together!!! In those five years, I have come to realize so many things. That while no one is perfect, each and every time the thought comes to my mind, Dean and I are <em>perfect for each other!</em> There is no one I could imagine spending the rest of my life with other than Dean! When someone says you are their better half, or whatever... Dean and I know that we kind of are to each other. When Dean's lying on the couch waiting for time to pass and me to get off my kick for wanting to go, go, GO! He knows that I am his better half, well at least in this scenario. I don't let him procrastinate, and that's something I know he hates about himself. Me on the other side... when I am about to go ballistic, and rip someones head off for who knows what!!!! Dean, is my calmer, loving side. He can get anything done with poise and manners (although, I won't let him forget the mop story at Big Lots to prove he too can get mad!) You get where I am going with this. </div>
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Sometimes the things you think are not that big of a relationship blunder, are so very important indeed! Things that you have tried to change, and they are just who you are... when you find that perfect someone, that part of your life is changed by what they do for you instead!!! I could give many more examples, but those are two that Dean and I laugh about, and just know without the other, things would either never get done, or one of us would be in jail... Ha! </div>
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Every relationship takes work. In the beginning, it's a breeze because you're not afraid of losing someone. In the later days of dating, it's more serious, because now there are feelings and the thought of losing your crush is devastating. After the proposal, it's dedication to work through anything, and to see how the other handles each scenario thrown your way. Some relationships at this point are obviously shattered, but if you get to the point, where you in fact marry that "one and only", there becomes this unwritten rule of not giving up. Not only not giving up, but the commitment, family, etc... This is of course what builds the foundation of your relationship, how you handle each phase, when the hotness wears off, when the children leave your body stretched and saggy, when the meals you learned how to cook just for him/her stick to the body prepared for. </div>
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The past five years have been much more fun than fret for me. I say all the above, because Dean and I have always been told we "are so perfect". Trust me, we're not. But we are still the fun loving couple that met 6 1/2 years ago. We are still best friends to each other, and we still make each other laugh, a lot!! We also, like many predict, are that couple that has squirt gun fights, and turn our home into a war zone because neither of us think too far is really too far! We try to set an example to our boys how important love is, and what love looks like. It's not always perfect, but it's always loving. </div>
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For our anniversary this year, sadly we will not be doing our traditional Titans game, but instead we are going to celebrate while we are in FL since there will be more to do! Five years is five years, and that mark definitely deserves more than a podunk town to celebrate!!! No idea what we will do in FL, but it will be nice to have some options, and a baby sitter for the evening! Whatever we do, it will be fun, and if that means riding roller coasters at midnight, Dean and I will just be happy to do it together!</div>
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FIVE YEARS</div>
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1,826,210 days... + 1 for leap year</div>
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43,829,063 hours...</div>
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2 children</div>
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100's of FIGHTS/Make Up's</div>
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5 Cities/3 Homes</div>
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1 thought of giving up...<br />
Endless nights of laughter<br />
Hours spent discussing our dreams<br />
Living it for the last five years...</div>
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At least 65 more anniversary's I want to share with you...</div>
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Happy FIFTH Anniversary Babe!! Here is to many, many more to come. Thank you for (6 1/2 years) together, thank you for being my friend, my confident, and an amazing husband. Thank you for the family you helped create, for being such a wonderful father and for teaching our boys how to love a woman! I love you more than you know!</div>
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Xoxo</div>
Your WifeyShylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-83638332795777052852012-09-19T15:56:00.006-04:002012-09-19T17:24:43.513-04:00Minnesota...<div align="justify">The boys and I have been in Minnesota for a little over two weeks! In that time, we have a good layout of the area, have been on several adventures, and got back on a normal schedule and routine despite now being back on central time!</div><div align="justify"> <br /></div><div align="justify">Dean started back to work on Thursday of last week! It was so nice to spend some time with him before the craziness of a new project sets in, and so I guess I can't complain too much, since we did get almost two weeks together with him keeping his daily pay! In the last few projects, we have only come to visit Dean after the initial project starts, so it will be a test of my patience to see how forgiving I am when I don't get to see much of Dean in the weeks to come. We are very thankful that we are under the same roof at night though, and will look forward to the days he does get off to spend together as a family! Today is actually one of those days. Dean went into work early this morning, only to be sent home due to the wind speeds and the lack of actual work to do when the winds are so high. Unfortunately, that means he'll be working through the night, so it's my job today to keep the boys quiet while he gets some much needed sleep in!!</div><div align="justify"> <br /></div><div align="justify">Last week I also found a school to enroll not only Jax, but Liam and myself in!!! It's pretty much a pre-school, however it's not based solely on the child's age, but the class you want them in. So Jax will be in a 3-5 year old class called Discovery Place, and will attend for 2 hours each Tuesday and Thursday. On Wednesday's Liam and I will have a class together, while Jax gets free play time with other students/older siblings! I think this is something that sets this school aside from others, is that it is a requirement for the parents to be involved, and that's where Liam's class comes in. In that class, Liam will have the child to child interaction with children his age, but I will also learn special things to do with him based on HIS development and our home lifestyle. I will also be provided with very much needed Mommy time to met other mothers in the area, and hopefully make some new MN friends! </div><div align="justify"> <br /></div><div align="justify">Aside from THAT awesome find, we have settled into a routine, and are quite comfortable in our new home away from home. We finally got a couch that we can all snuggle on, and just in time for football season!!! Liam learned to signal TOUCHDOWN and is absolutely adorable holding his little arms up cheering with Mommy and Daddy! (Seahawks side of this post that is, as the Titans are starting off, eh... not in the best way!)</div><div align="justify"> </div><br /><div align="justify">The weather has been a roller coaster, and all four of us have been up and down with coughing and sneezing and all around sickness! I thought it was suppose to be cooler here, when in fact, it's been MUCH warmer here up North, than it has in the South. Again, I say this now, but I am so over summer and just want sweatshirt, jean and hot chocolate weather. That should be standard on the first day of football!</div><div align="justify"> </div><br /><div align="justify">Last week I also had my first doctor's appointment to establish care at the Mayo Clinic Rochester! I met with an internalist who specializes in hypertension, but based on how long I have had it, and the "controlled" readings I still get, he has already put my name on a first available list to the Hypertension Clinic in Rochester. I am <em>REALLY</em> excited that I may finally have a team try to figure me out!! I know there are good doctors everywhere, but if you know anything about the Mayo Clinic systems, they tend to get the "freak" cases and have so many studies going on that, I'm hopeful SOMEONE can figure me out! </div><div align="justify"> </div><br /><div align="justify">Nash has been enjoying his time indoors and has gotten a little <em>too</em> comfortable as the only dog, and an inside dog. He is only outside long enough to go potty, and after last weekend, when he decided to run off at midnight keeping Dean and I awake until 3am, with no return in sight... he REALLY only gets to be outside supervised. (<em>I am still getting calls from the Albert Lea area with information on a black wandering dog. Yes, I ended up getting a letter written out of pure desperation printed in the Albert Lea Tribune). </em>Thankfully he had a guilty nose pressed up against the back door early the next morning! (my letter wasn't published until four days later, and I wasn't sure it would even reach anyone!) I didn't think he would come back actually, and so it was a bit scary! </div><div align="justify">I can't believe it's almost been a month since we said goodbye to Argo. :( Jax still asks about him pretty frequently, but they are getting further apart, so hopefully the pain for him missing his pup is subsiding. </div><div align="justify"> </div><br /><div align="justify">Other than that, we are very happy to have met our neighbors, and get to be a part of neighborhood play dates with all the children. It's been so long since I've ever paid attention to how many kids can be in one neighborhood, but this is pretty impressive. Almost every house has a child!!! We're definitely looking forward to an easy Halloween this year! </div><div align="justify"> </div><br /><div align="justify">I have also entertained the thought of joining a gym while Jax is in school, but I think I nixed that idea a few hours after starving myself of anything remotely tasty on my quest to begin a diet. I may still get a gym membership, but probably will waste the use of it! Haha.</div><div align="justify"> </div><br /><div align="justify">While in Minnesota, I am really looking forward to the possibility of meeting my Dad's biological side of the family. Dad has met most of his family since my health scare in 2004, and they ALL live in MN!!! It would be really nice to put some faces with the names I've heard of over the years, and although the chance is slim, being able to meet my paternal grandmother would be amazing. Dad's biological mom knows that he wants to meet her, but up to this point she has declined. If I could just get in to see her, and somehow press the idea of them meeting, it would be life changing for my dad! </div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><br />Well, as I type... the kids one by one are waking from their naps implying that my alone time to catch up are over. Now the task of keeping them entertained quietly while Daddy sleeps will begin!!</div><br /><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><br />Love and miss you all and hope everyone is doing well!!!</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">Shylah</div><br /><br />Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-76974576878999416012012-08-28T17:58:00.000-04:002012-08-28T17:59:13.606-04:00Goodbye Argo...<div align="justify"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 212px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5781542603344990114" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Nk7OCT--4Y/UDwqXaYqT6I/AAAAAAAAEfc/sy2KbSsfjuc/s320/DSC_0342.JPG" /><br />Exactly a month after Argo was diagnosed with Wobblers, today we said goodbye. I've never had to willingly put a pet down before, but I was a strong as I could be for him.<br />Losing a pet, regardless if they are "yours" or not is hard, but being the one to make that decision is even harder. Today I gave Argo all the things he loved. Cuddles on the couch, the longest scratch session, I let him lead me through the country fields as far as he could handle to go. We stopped at the top of the hill and just sat there. I cried, I hugged him and I told him how sorry I was for this happening and that I hope he understood why we had to say goodbye. I'm thankful for our walk; the silence of the country and the beautiful mountain views. It was peaceful, it's what he loved, and with every stumble he took, it made my decision feel right.<br /></div><div align="justify">Before we left to the clinic, I arranged the front seat so he could safely put his head out the window one last time, something he just discovered he loved. On the way to the clinic, we stopped at a friends hot dog stand to get him one last treat, which ended up being more than that, and continued on driving as slowly as I could.</div><div align="justify"><br />After our last goodbye just the two of us, Dr. Claiborne came into administrate the meds. He made sure we were both ready, which as hard as it was, Argo laid his head down, and closed his eyes giving me the strength to let go. It didn't take long, but I held him, hugged him, and had my hand on his heart and felt his last beat. He looked so peaceful, and instantly I knew it was the best decision. He will be cremated, and we plan on scattering some of his ashes around our home, as that's where his heart was... Being a hound dog.<br /><br />Being Jaxon's dog, the last few weeks we explained to him that Argo was sick, and talked to him almost daily about puppy heaven and living with the angels. Although he's only three, I do believe us being honest with him and telling him what happened was the best way to handle it. I'm not certain he understands the concept 100%, but he knows that Argo will be with God and that he'll no longer be sick and that when he misses Argo, that he is right there in his heart.<br />Jax said that when he missed Argo that he would he just get a big ladder and go see him with God and play with him there! :)<br /><br />I hate that Argo was so young, and how fast this disease ruined him, but he just wasn't the Argo he used to be. I know we made the right decision, but still it's one of the hardest situations I've been faced with. I'm thankful for the last month, as hard as it was to see him deteriorate, I got to spoil him, and baby him and hope he knows that he was loved.</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">A sincere thank you to all those who helped us along this short journey, for the many who have called to check on me, and for the prayers for peace and strength. I definitely felt it all, so thank you.<br /><br /><em>Dear Argo,<br />I miss you already. I know that you weren't "my" dog, as this was established the moment we picked you out. You were the new "buppy" and the new best friend to Jax. You were Jaxon's puppy.<br />I also realize that you weren't always treated as fairly or as favored as Nash, but as you should know, you are and were very much loved by us all.<br />Yes you angered me to tears with your constant running off after rabbits, or just because you needed to retrace your last hunting excursion, but as your disease progressed, it was clear to me that you were in fact living your life to the fullest. I'm sorry for the names I called you when you would finally come back home, but it was because I loved you, and I was worried you would become another victim of the road...<br />You were brought into a home with love even when there were times we neglected your interests like playing fetch, or walking to the mailbox, or scratching the tip of your nose, which you oddly loved so much. You never slept a night outside, went without a meal (by our choice), didn't help clean up after "your" boy, or get told we love you!! Your favorite toy, the battered and ragged squirrel you adored was always accounted for, and the cheat grass and thimbles you collected in your paws was always plucked out in the most sympathetic tender way...<br />You were just a baby and I wish we had many more years to have you as our pet, but we are glad we had you for the two years we did. I'm so sorry you got sick, and I'm sorry that you were confused at no longer being able to be you. I hope you felt our love every day, and especially the last month we were together. We really tried to do our best, and keep you as comfortable as possible. Despite your tendency to run, thank you for being the loving natured dog you were.<br />As I write this, know that we will miss you very much. Jax actually said he was going to take you away from God so he wouldn't be sad, and that you wouldn't be sick anymore. I know he is young, but he loved you and you were his. :(<br />I hope that you are on the other side of the rainbow bridge having the time of your life doing what you were born to do... Please don't chase my rabbit, PJ!! Tell Chopper we miss him too!!<br />We will be together again one day buddy, but until that day, you will remain in our hearts!!<br />We love you Argo.</em> </div><div><em></em><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5781550517871336546" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hhFTE8E8AlI/UDwxkGSyXGI/AAAAAAAAEfo/D8cVS5tHFOE/s320/Argo.jpg" /><div align="center">RIP Buddy</div><div align="center">2010-2012</div></div><br />Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-4151463697108740672012-08-26T14:02:00.000-04:002012-09-07T13:58:54.080-04:00Goodbye Michigan, hello Minnesota!! <img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 220px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5785495198152953042" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-50NU4RKUqVA/UEo1OteijNI/AAAAAAAAEgY/Rkne8u1C9pE/s320/Minnesota.jpg" /><div align="justify">Last week the boys and I left the upper peninsula of MI for the last time (that we know of). Dean packed up and left for MN on Sunday morning, and has his first meeting with the project managers Tuesday morning to determine the next few months being in MN. This project will be in Blue Earth and an 18 turbine assignment.<br />Before we left MI, we found a house to rent since we were told that he'll be there through the end of the year, so we'll be traveling and staying w/Dean for the winter there, which seems so backwards leaving the warmer southern climate going north where we know the winters are brutal!! I have a feeling it's going to be a very bad winter too!! But, we're excited that we'll be together as a family!!<br />We found a home in Albert Lea, that we were able to negotiate with the owners to fully furnish and allow us to bring the pups, so we're happy that we won't have to pack up for just a few months.<br />In the meantime, we still have our house in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Greeneville</span>, that although it seems wasteful to keep and not be there to enjoy it, the way I see it, is while we're with Dean, he gets to keep his daily per <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">diem</span> so each month he goes on R&R and we're there, we are really only paying the same cost as a storage unit, but still have a place to call home for the projects we know we won't go with him.<br />I'm really excited to be in a new place, and of course I say this now, but I'm very much looking forward to the holidays all bundled up with the boys!! Plus Albert Lea is very centrally located and about an hour to an hour and a half from everything that we'll need including the Mall of America which has a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Nordstroms</span> AND a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Nordstroms</span> Rack!! :)<br /><br />We are beyond blessed that we have the means and opportunity to travel with Dean while the boys are little, because Dean really loves his job and so it's nice we can support him and his industry together as a family!!<br /><br />I'll be sure to post all about the place as soon as we're there!!<br /><br />Love,<br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Shylah</span></div><br />Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-40000415135274814572012-08-21T10:18:00.000-04:002012-09-07T14:15:56.183-04:00Mackinac Island, MI...<div align="justify">Finally, I can say that I have been to Mackinac Island! I had been really wanting to go since our last visit to MI in June, so for Dean's last R&R there, we decided to make a day trip with the boys and see what the island was all about!<br /><br />Mackinac island is an island off the very tip of the upper peninsula. In 1898 the city banned all use of motorized vehicles except for one ambulance for the ENTIRE island. The only means of transportation are bikes, horse and buggy and by foot!! I didn't actually believe it until I saw a moving van being offloaded onto a cart with four horses...<br /><br />When we got off the ferry and off of the dock board walk, I think I was more amazed at the fact that there were no cars lining the streets. All there REALLY were, were bikes and bikes, and parking lots full of bikes, and about 25 bike rental and repair shops lining either side of the streets. Of course along with that, were the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">quaint</span> shops, parlors, a city market, fudge and ice cream shops galore!!!<br /><br />We walked around, got lunch and did all the touristy stuff while we were in the downtown area. Then decided to really get the island tour, that we needed to rent some bikes and ride around the island.<br /><br />I was a little bummed we couldn't attach a kid hauler to a tandem bike, but Dean got an orange bike at <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Jaxon's</span> request and hauled our babies every where. This is an understatement of how awesome he really is!! The first few miles were a breeze, and the boys loved being chauffeured!! We decided to cut through the island, which I didn't want to admit to, because I wanted to say we rode around the whole island, but after we did it, and didn't die, I'll gladly brag that we took that route. There were more historical sites and more to see on the cut through and that's why we did it, but shortly after the point of no return we learned why we were the ONLY ones who went this way...there were SO many hills!!! I thought I was going to die, and at least the burn in my legs took the pain away from my butt hurting from the bike seat. All the while I complained, my amazing hubby kept on trucking, encouraging me (even with the additional weight he was hauling, he never complained once!) and we made it to the other side!!! Yeah!!! It was so much fun though!! I think we rode a total of 5-6 miles, the entire island is only 8 in circumference, so taking in the account of the torturous hills, and not riding a bike since, oh maybe 5<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span> grade, we did really good, just a bit out of shape!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WPtpMK02epk/UEizBbgaDzI/AAAAAAAAEgA/2xz2YQcsUbg/s1600/IMG_6364.JPG"></a></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WPtpMK02epk/UEizBbgaDzI/AAAAAAAAEgA/2xz2YQcsUbg/s1600/IMG_6364.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 265px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5785070558502326066" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WPtpMK02epk/UEizBbgaDzI/AAAAAAAAEgA/2xz2YQcsUbg/s320/IMG_6364.JPG" /></a><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 240px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5785070131901373714" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WU5kUfvX02Y/UEiyomS0HRI/AAAAAAAAEf0/djhxaHTz6V0/s320/IMG_6242.JPG" /><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 239px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5785070925187299346" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-frHeR0zqi_Q/UEizWxg6uBI/AAAAAAAAEgM/dc-WUveyWaM/s320/IMG_6378.JPG" /><p align="justify"><br />Along the way we stopped to read the historical marker signs, take pictures, have a snack and really take in the gorgeousness of a world of it's own. I'm not certain I could live w/out a vehicle, and I'm still wondering how a pregnant woman gets herself to the hospital. I know you wouldn't see my pregnant body on a bike just before giving birth!!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u5eApaISaZc/UEo3dceDK4I/AAAAAAAAEhU/zXVo0iMiVo4/s1600/IMG_6243.JPG"></a></p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u5eApaISaZc/UEo3dceDK4I/AAAAAAAAEhU/zXVo0iMiVo4/s1600/IMG_6243.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 239px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5785497650308787074" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u5eApaISaZc/UEo3dceDK4I/AAAAAAAAEhU/zXVo0iMiVo4/s320/IMG_6243.JPG" /></a><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 239px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5785497634503090034" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y5ARj-yFqG4/UEo3chlrX3I/AAAAAAAAEhI/KjI7VrFkbVI/s320/IMG_6370.JPG" /><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 239px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5785497628346002274" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sh0xs2EkUvM/UEo3cKptq2I/AAAAAAAAEg8/KZQE4bt3A58/s320/IMG_6376.JPG" /><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 232px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5785497617796698578" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NtfgUE5k1Uk/UEo3bjWkEdI/AAAAAAAAEgw/QGLRdT4gxK0/s320/IMG_6380.JPG" /><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 239px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5785497612281374242" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RTM7_nmDkkY/UEo3bOzm5iI/AAAAAAAAEgk/0CTDZjqonJk/s320/IMG_6397.JPG" /><p align="justify"><br />After returning our bikes, we let the boys burn off some energy at a playground there, and even though the tempers were getting short, we still stopped for ice cream, and world famous Mackinac Fudge! <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Jax</span> was served a fresh piece after watching the fudge maker for about 15 minutes!! We went into several shops looking for souvenirs, but sadly, left empty handed.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bhWup6hT6mg/UEo4eIiZVkI/AAAAAAAAEh4/R-G1563MK24/s1600/IMG_6400.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 239px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5785498761649804866" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bhWup6hT6mg/UEo4eIiZVkI/AAAAAAAAEh4/R-G1563MK24/s320/IMG_6400.JPG" /></a><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 239px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5785498745910777250" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8RkgZZslCsU/UEo4dN561aI/AAAAAAAAEhg/zkq3mZaHs3M/s320/IMG_6414.JPG" /><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 239px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5785498751704064898" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tRiFxZcR1zs/UEo4djfJY4I/AAAAAAAAEhs/9r8ErVXI2i0/s320/IMG_6416.JPG" /></p><div align="justify">The boys loved being hauled around, and getting to see a place completely free of overly busy people. Dean and I enjoyed our ride (minus the hills) and to me it was like a first date again, but only better having the boys in tow!<br /><br />I've heard the only way to become a resident is by blood and inheritance, but I would love another trip and to stay for a few days to take in all of the island, but I'm not sure we'll be back.<br /><br />Thanks honey for such a fanatic day with you and our boys!!<br /></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JPF5jobc9q0/UEo5KNEgIyI/AAAAAAAAEiE/3HEzhpI383Q/s1600/IMG_6429.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 239px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5785499518780842786" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JPF5jobc9q0/UEo5KNEgIyI/AAAAAAAAEiE/3HEzhpI383Q/s320/IMG_6429.JPG" /></a><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mackinac_Island">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mackinac_Island</a> more info on the island!<br />Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-66174024454363862512012-07-31T20:36:00.006-04:002012-07-31T21:23:00.405-04:00I did it!!!<div><div align="justify"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-utR0tajDw2k/UBh70-w244I/AAAAAAAAEe8/c-dTatGz2sE/s1600/IMG_5887.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 268px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5771499072606626690" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-utR0tajDw2k/UBh70-w244I/AAAAAAAAEe8/c-dTatGz2sE/s320/IMG_5887.JPG" /></a>In honor of Breastfeeding Awareness Month (August), I would like to pat myself on the back for successfully breastfeeding both of my boys!!<br /><br />I have been steadfast in my dedication to not only saving money spent on formulas over two long term breastfeeding journeys, but also in giving my children the best source of nutrition there is!<br /><br />I nursed Jaxon for 13 months and Liam is in the process of weaning after 18 months!!<br /><br />Through our journey, I not only educated myself with all the benefits associated with breastfeeding, but I also educated friends, family and strangers to help with their journeys. I nursed two preemies who most said I would not be able to. I also donated enough expressed breast milk from Liam's NICU days to help and nurture a donor preemie plagued by GI issues and rejecting all formulas for six months!!<br /><br />While its been daunting at times, and hard on my body through countless growth spurts, teething and illnesses, I DID it!!<br /><br />I am very much looking forward to reclaiming my body, and tossing the nursing bras once and for all, but I know there will be times I miss the bond that only I could continue to give my children after evicting them from my belly!!<br /><br />I hope I have helped those who have asked, I thank those who have helped me, supported me, and encouraged me along the way. I pray that now that I am done, that I can finish up the classes I started to become a certified counselor. I would really like to help as many mothers as I can, and especially to dedicate my knowledge and experiences to the tiniest babies of the NICU, whom most are told "they're too tiny".<br /></div><div align="justify">A special THANK YOU to my friends and family who have put up with my preaching, warming bottles to give my children, smiling through spit up of "you know what" and mostly my husband for your loving support for me and our children and never complaining on the duration, and the fact that our babies co-slept for almost a year each just to give me extra sleep!</div><div align="justify"><br />Good luck to those who try, and for those who simply can not, please remember that formulas are NOT the devil. They are formulated after the "best" and as closely to it as possible. There are reasons to why some can't, personal decisions and health factors, but if you try, you have done your best already!!<br /><br />Here is a link that has several good articles about the benefits and the how to's if any of you have questions!!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.fitpregnancy.com/motherhood/breastfeeding/breastfeeding-awareness-month"></a><a href="http://www.fitpregnancy.com/motherhood/breastfeeding/breastfeeding-awareness-month">http://www.fitpregnancy.com/motherhood/breastfeeding/breastfeeding-awareness-month</a><br /><br />Shylah</div></div>Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-26966342011297839502012-07-29T12:46:00.000-04:002012-07-30T11:24:09.702-04:00Learning about Wobblers...<div align="justify">Since I have been home from WA, I have noticed that Argo has been really uncoordinated. He had gotten sick while we were in WA with GI issues that were explained by his hunting/eating habits, but after <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">meds</span>/antibiotics he seemed to clear up.<br /><br />The day after we got home, I noticed that he was walking very gingerly, and I assumed it was discomfort due to his tummy issues. So another round of medicine and he seemed to perk back up. After a week, he was still walking around, hobbling, and I couldn't imagine that he was still "backed up", so I took video of him clumsily falling down the stairs, walking in a straight line, and overall just looking drunk from the waist down.<br /><br />I took him back into the vet after researching illnesses that could cause his clumsiness, and had found two possibilities that were both treatable, but that sounded like something he could have. After getting him checked over, our vet did a simple leg/foot check where he rolled Argo's feet under him to see how he responded. The front legs did what they were supposed to, and immediately came back to a normal standing position. The back legs however, stayed turned under, which prompted Dr. Claiborne to do some x-rays of his neck area to rule out a condition called <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Wobblers</span> Syndrome.<br /><br />So I left him to have the images taken, and after a few hours, received a call confirming that Argo had several areas of degeneration to his cervical vertebra that were essentially pinching his spinal cord, which is diagnosed as <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Wobblers</span>.<br /><br />I came into pick Argo up, and learned from Dr. Claiborne some options we had to go forward with the treatment. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Wobblers</span> in short: is a degeneration or malformation of the cervical vertebra that cause the vertebra to lose their shape, creating a point, which usually pinches or puts pressure on the spinal cord and slowly paralyzes the dog from the back up. We were both a little stunned that he had a moderate case, and even more so, that this is typically a disease that effects large breed canines: Great Danes, Doberman <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Pinchers</span>, Rottweilers, etc. It is also the same disease that horses are notorious for developing. Argo is 47lbs, he is a lab/<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">coonhound</span> mix, and of course we don't know how big his parents were, but typically other breeds and small dogs are seen in less than 5% of all Wobbler cases.<br /><br />Here is a link that I found that describes this disease in plain <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">english</span>. <a href="http://www.petassure.com/newsletters/011510newsletter/01152010Article4.html">http://www.petassure.com/newsletters/011510newsletter/01152010Article4.html</a><br /><br />Unfortunately the best way to correct the issue is by surgery, which looking at his x-rays, he wouldn't be a good candidate for. There is medical treatment with steroids that should alleviate some of the pressure and swelling around the spinal cord, and possibly help him not be so clumsy, but since it's a neurological disease and there are nerves involved, the damage that has already happened won't get better. The steroids also don't prevent the damage from moving forward, and so we were told in his case, he could be happy and healthy otherwise for weeks to weeks or weeks to months on end.<br /><br />The past week, I have educated myself on this disease, and come to grips that sooner than later, we will have to make the dreaded decision to say goodbye before he gets to the point of pain and or looses his ability to use the bathroom, and the paresis moves forward. I only pray that I know when, and that it's not sooner than we are ready.<br /><br />We began treating him with a low dose steroid to see how he does on that, but with steroids, comes the side effects. We're hoping to see some improvement, and be able to dose him off and on rather than keep him on the steroids long term and prevent any damage that that can cause. He's been on his medicine for five days, and I can't tell if he's doing better or not. We have a follow-up appointment today to discuss further measures we can take in keeping him comfortable longer. There are ways to do a home rehab with rest, a cervical brace and medications, but we also need to make sure it doesn't progress to the point of pain in the meantime. As of now, we were told that he shouldn't have any discomfort, other than the annoyance of when your foot falls asleep. I have been keeping an eye on him, and making sure he's not not doing anything to cause more damage. I also have been carrying him up and down the stairs, which thankfully he knows I am trying to help, so he patiently waits for me to pick him up.<br /><br />I have never been in the situation of looking at one of my <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">furbabies</span> knowing soon they wouldn't be with us, and it is especially hard, as he is not even three years old. Of course Argo was brought into our family for Nash and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">Jax</span> after we lost Chopper, but he is definitely one of my boys... The past week I have spoiled him rotten and hope that he <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">sees</span> until we have to say goodbye how much we love him, and will miss him when he's gone. Today we have our friend coming over to take some family photos before he gets too bad, and we are gone.<br /><br />Dr. Claiborne said that Argo would be fine to travel with and it would be better for him than cooped up in a kennel, so we will resume with our travel plans to MI in a few days, and just make sure he gets a good vacation out of it as well.<br /><br />I have no idea when the day will come, but I ask that you please pray, think, or just send us good vibes, and that Argo will stay comfortable and happy, and that we will know when it's time.<br /><br />Thank you</div>Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-32694344883860812712012-07-24T12:53:00.002-04:002012-07-24T13:20:59.317-04:00Four eyes are better than two??<div align="justify"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s1OedyUNrcM/UA7ZQpBVFII/AAAAAAAAEZo/xp8VLPUP_lE/s1600/IMG_5911%255B1%255D.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 240px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5768787052620747906" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s1OedyUNrcM/UA7ZQpBVFII/AAAAAAAAEZo/xp8VLPUP_lE/s320/IMG_5911%255B1%255D.JPG" /></a>I've officially joined the four <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">eye'd</span> club. Still in major denial, but it's not helping any that I swear I see better without my new glasses than with them on. <div align="justify">I was advised to get used to them and verify they were my correct prescription before ordering contacts, which if I do in fact see a difference in the next few days, I will most definitely be getting contacts. I don't see how people wear glasses all the time. They are absolutely annoying!!</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">I am not sure I see/feel a difference other than being slightly dizzy from seeing both above and below the frames, but in all honestly think they gave me a bogus prescription. I can't tell a difference with things far away, trust me, I'm going around testing everything <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">lol</span>. I am sure it's hard to get <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">someones</span> prescription right on when they can still see REALLY good without correction, but I'm not certain this is all right. :/ I only went in for possible correction for night time driving. I know that I do have a slight haze/blur with things far away, but all it takes is for me to blink real good and concentrate. I mean, I could still read the letters on the bottom of the chart when really focusing, but even when I was told not to over concentrate, was able to read most of the smallest letters and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">definitely</span> everything above. *sigh*</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">I have a follow up <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">appt</span>. on Friday, as well as a few other tests to see if the cognitive <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">glaucoma</span> I was developing when I was younger has gotten any worse or better, so I guess I will give glasses a chance until then. So far I'm not a happy camper though. </div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">They also took complete advantage of the fact I had no idea what I was doing with the vision benefits/allowances. I checked our benefits after getting a total of $156 and after thinking I was allowed a free pair of glasses/contacts each year, and I <em>should</em> have, but they pointed me in the opposite direction as well as tricked me into things I may or may not need. So with that, I have a fancy <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">schmancy</span> set of designer glasses, with anti-fog/anti-glare, although they are really "pretty". They are a purple/pinkish marbled color that picks up both black and browns which is what I wear <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">a lot</span>. </div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">I'm not sure glasses are for me, or if this is <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">in fact</span> my "prescription", but if it is, I'm hoping I'll get adjusted quickly! I only wanted to wear them at night/driving, but was told to wear them all the time at least for the first two weeks... </div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">So, all you goggle geeks... another one has joined your club! :$</div></div>Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-89832319456400409792012-07-22T10:09:00.001-04:002012-07-30T10:44:25.987-04:00Good Vibrations...<div align="justify"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yg5dzaKthSQ/UBaa_sfSgNI/AAAAAAAAEd0/4MCqXTnXhBU/s1600/IMG_5939.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 238px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5770970391586701522" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yg5dzaKthSQ/UBaa_sfSgNI/AAAAAAAAEd0/4MCqXTnXhBU/s320/IMG_5939.JPG" /></a>During our visit to WA, my Aunt Terry and I had plans to see the Beach Boys 50th Reunion Tour Concert that was held at the St. Chateau Michelle winery near Seattle.<br /><br />First off, when I was a little girl, my Aunt and Uncle got me hooked on oldies, and specifically the Beach Boys. I have been just as big of a fan of them, as the kids growing up when they debuted! I could sing you more oldies and 50-60's music then all the music out while I was growing up and now. I guess I always thought I would be a better doo-wopper than a country singer lol!<br /><br />During the Grammy's this year, the Beach Boys were guest's and did a melody of their best songs, after they were done, they announced they were reuniting and doing a 50 year reunion. That very night, Aunt Terry and I decided that wherever they were, we'd find a place to see them... it just so happened to be at the tail end of my visit home, and in Seattle so the timing and location worked perfectly.<br /><br />Being that it was at a winery, I fully expected me to be loopy since that's typically what one glass will do to me, ahem... I wont say that during the show I polished off an entire bottle by myself... lol<img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 239px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5770970780641754882" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nz78YdFGvB8/UBabWV1PfwI/AAAAAAAAEeM/NuW82Exkytw/s320/IMG_5943.JPG" /><br />There was a group of girls that had Aunt Terry and I laughing the entire show... They were having the time of their life, and we really wanted to join them. Of course, I'm sure wine had a big part of that...<br />There was one low point of the show. During intermission, I decided to pull my usual Shylah, and see if I could get on stage with the Boys... we walked up to the stage and yelled to whoever would listen, which just so happened to be Mike Love, (s0 I at least talked to an original!!). He told me to come back and talk to Bryan, and that he'd probably let me sing Barbara Ann, which of course he didn't come back until the show restarted...<br />So we resumed our fun, singing and drinking away... when all of a sudden, I see this other girl with green on, blond hair and in her twenties, up on stage singing (not singing at all rather, being an idiot) during Barbara Ann... I'm sure they were looking for the "cute blond wearing a green top and shorts..." Haha...<br /><br />For four hours, my Aunt and I danced away singing all of our favorite songs. I had such a great time, and some very much needed Aunt/Niece time!!! During the show, I got emotional a few times, my Uncle loved the Beach Boys, and so I was thinking about him a lot. I am sure he would have been proud of me doing justice to all of our car rides with the window's rolled down and singing along to his "tapes"!<img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 285px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5770971609423428146" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zeacb8quKBc/UBacGlSMOjI/AAAAAAAAEeY/In5IlC44LzA/s320/IMG_5942at.jpg" /><br />Best concert in a long time... and even though it's been three weeks, I can't get the songs out of my head, and would argue with anyone on how amazing they sounded!! Before we left, my Aunt and I were thanked for being so fun to watch, and one guy even said we were the best entertainment of the show!! :)<img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 239px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5770972014974298866" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N2xIvP7w82Y/UBaceMFDavI/AAAAAAAAEew/D6oQ2XRZXPU/s320/IMG_5991.JPG" /><br />Thanks Aunt Terry for a fun night out, even if I did hate our date the next morning!!<br /></div>Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-34497214096386110442012-07-18T13:21:00.000-04:002012-07-27T20:54:21.520-04:00Washington Times 2012...<div align="justify">Please forgive me as I am trying to write this post during and after our trip...<br /><br />At the beginning of the month, the boys and I visited "home" for a few weeks. We originally planned a trip around my 10 year HS reunion, but most of the planned events have been cancelled due to lack of ticket sales. Pretty lame with a graduating class of 450+ that only 3 tickets were sold.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_QpP7SNiHXE/UBL3rW0YQLI/AAAAAAAAEaY/wZzxRRftpQg/s1600/IMG_5814.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 239px; height: 320px; float: left; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5769946396846735538" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_QpP7SNiHXE/UBL3rW0YQLI/AAAAAAAAEaY/wZzxRRftpQg/s320/IMG_5814.JPG" /></a>The boys and I had an awful time just getting to WA. We flew out of Nashville, and after our plane was delayed twice, we were told to make other arrangements because if we missed our connection in MN, that we wouldn't arrive in Pasco until three days later... A lot of fun THAT was with two kids flying solo. Thankfully our pilot flew like I drove, and got us there with literally minutes to spare. Had it not been for Jax screaming the gate number and running far ahead of Liam and I, we would have definitely missed our plane. We finally arrived in Tri-Cities around 11:30 pm, which was so hard on the boys and me being three hours behind.<br /><br />After about two days, we were somewhat on Pacific time, which is probably the fastest we've all adjusted. I do think the more we travel the more the boys just put up with their schedules being whack! The boys adjusted really well and had a blast rediscovering Gramma's house, cats, toys and testing the limits of what they could get away with. They spent a lot of time outside which was really nice, and had so much fun with <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J_6YCHdnwpo/UBL3_fd7lZI/AAAAAAAAEak/lESLOVLzbrI/s1600/IMG_5816.JPG"></a>Gramma! Mom only had to work a few days while we were there, so it was good to get a lot of visiting in with her and the boys. We spent most days at the house, just playing outside, swimming, helping Gramma do chores and bringing lots of smiles! I think we must have gone through three or four boxes of Popsicles!! During the time we were there, I FINALLY got Jax to go under water by himself, Liam successfully learned to go up and down the stairs to the slide, and also mimicked big brother and learned how to hold his nose and go under water. It's amazing how fast they learn things when they have an older sibling around. Jax loved mowing the lawn with Gramma, and following Cinder Loo around every time she braved the noise to come out!!</div><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 214px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5769970414124369986" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FuX-2R__KAM/UBMNhWJliEI/AAAAAAAAEdE/xXfgECvjMSw/s320/Grammas.jpg" /><br /><div align="justify">During our visits to WA, the first thing I usually do after getting the boys and myself comfortable, is to swing in to visit with Grandpa!! Now typically I can show up unannounced and he's always up and ready for visit. NOT the case this time! I was quite surprised to walk into Gramps house the morning after we flew in, and not find him sitting in his chair. After checking the yard, kitchen and a cautious walk to the bathroom, I finally came across him curled up in a ball STILL asleep! Needless to say I was shocked. After giving him the surprise of a lifetime "the cute blonde waking him up" as he said... haha, I ran a few errands with the promise to come back once he was up and ready!! So glad that we were able to have so many dates and visits in the first week we were there. I always look forward to seeing my Gpa, and listening to the stories I love so much. On our date night, I learned all of his near death experiences as a boy and growing up... Grandpa, it's a wonder how you lived past 30!!!</div><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 272px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5769947231371021314" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rfi-pg9yXBM/UBL4b7qeTAI/AAAAAAAAEa8/0bkWGLvQclA/s320/IMG_5832.JPG" /><div align="justify">We also got in a lot of visiting with the my brother brain, sister in law, and my sweet, beautiful niece! As much as I love living in TN, and traveling with Dean, it pains me to be so far away from family, with the visits getting fewer and farther in between based on the price of tickets for our family, but it really hurts having the boys only close cousin (age wise) being so far away. I feel like I am hurting the potential relationship they may have, but hope when all are a little older, to at least live a more reasonable distance away.<br /><br />Kenley has gotten so big, or rather Liam hasn't gotten much bigger lol. Her and Liam are just about the same height and size, and according to the family, she is up and walking around now!!! The looks she was giving Liam trying to figure out "how he was doing it on his own" were priceless! :)<br /></div><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 214px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5769966496901864818" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LIxKXZ-As68/UBMJ9VW9nXI/AAAAAAAAEb4/-jJ-elQta60/s320/Cousins.jpg" /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b8qMmDh2Wk8/UBL1apCisNI/AAAAAAAAEaM/q9LF6AbQBMo/s1600/IMG_5819.JPG"></a><div align="justify">I also got to see my brother coach a few baseball games!! It was really neat to see him in the coaches role after so many years of being a player!!! He let Jax come in and sit with him and the players in the dugout, spoiled him with gum, and so it was just a cool thing to finally get to see!</div><div> <img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 239px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5769947711485124706" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-40mpsSZoYM0/UBL434OmIGI/AAAAAAAAEbU/VnemoBRKEzQ/s320/IMG_5840.JPG" /></div><div align="justify">Of course we visited with family friends as well. Jax and Liam got to be the first swimmers in Carolyn and John's pool, and more than spoiled like every visit to see them with snacks, and juice and lots of love! We also had several much needed playdates with some of my friends and their kids! Jax loves playdates, and I love getting to catch up with other mom's on how they do things, and overall how they are doing! I wish a lot of them lived closer so we could do it all the time!</div><div> <img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 239px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5769966783997538354" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cPYj1RjvISY/UBMKOC358DI/AAAAAAAAEcE/Cl5aXRXBIa4/s320/IMG_5930.JPG" /></div><div align="justify"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 298px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5769971009270767458" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vWScUf1A5sM/UBMOD_Pi32I/AAAAAAAAEdc/Y4T4tVba_ho/s320/IMG_5935.JPG" /><br />The boys and I got to experience (their) first 4th of July on the Columbia River. Before we had flown out, mom had done some holiday planning and figured out a fun filled day for the boys and us. We started off early at the Pasco Memorial Park with an all you can eat Pancake Breakfast, then followed that up with a less than fun parade. Mom told me to keep my opinions to myself so I wouldn't ruin it for the boys, but it was pretty much a failed attempt at anything patriotic like the parades used to be. I'm sorry, but other than getting to see clasic cars that I missed at Cool Dessert Nights, I can pretty much sum that parade up with two hours of mine, Jaxon's, Liam's and mom's life we'll never get back. That evening we planned on going out to the Pasco side of the river to enjoy the fireworks. Of course leaving behind schedule, which is my usual, we just barely got down he dike in time for the show. To me, there is no place better than watching fireworks on the river, so I was happy to be able to make some memories with my boys. Being that the show started at 10pm, and we had only been in WA for three days, Liam was out the entire time, and Jax had his eyes open just long enough to watch the fireworks before he too was out! We had great seats that were offered up by a sweet family, and other than the run to make it in time, it was perfect!!<img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 214px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5769969406154191042" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3MjAzGKFJvo/UBMMmrKxMMI/AAAAAAAAEcQ/fjFAwVapn7E/s320/4th%2Bof%2BJuly.jpg" /></div><div align="justify"><br />The weather was hotter than I was prepared for. I thought I was going to be getting a break from the brutal summer days started in the south. The first few days were great! I think I even had goosebumps a few times, however after the first weekend, it got HOT! It was up in the 100's with just as much humidity if not MORE than what we have in TN! It's funny to hear Grandpa talk about the Tri-Cities weather now a days, and just how much it has changed since the 50's! Definitely not the same Tri-Cities I grew up in!!<br /><br />The first weekend that we were there, Dean flew in as we got ready for my HS Reunion. I had no idea what to expect, since the only other reunion I've ever been to was Dean's with a whopping twenty-something of a graduating class, and<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H6Y3kO9wNB0/UBMFnk1Dt_I/AAAAAAAAEbs/SaBrqy1COEk/s1600/IMG_5854.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 320px; height: 190px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5769961725050992626" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H6Y3kO9wNB0/UBMFnk1Dt_I/AAAAAAAAEbs/SaBrqy1COEk/s320/IMG_5854.JPG" /></a> previous to that, I had attended one with my Aunt and Uncle and only went to be the entertainment!! It was a lot of fun though, and a better turnout than I anticipated. I got to catch up with several girls that had moved away prior to graduation, and some that I really never talked with in school, so it was good just to see how everyone was doing, ooh and ahh over each others kids, and just have fun. Needless to say a reunion at a bar with drink specials, haha... it's been TOO long since I had a few mixed drinks, and I'm pretty sure Dean got a good laugh at my lack of tolerance these days!!<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-puXSWu26HmY/UBMMr_Ub_hI/AAAAAAAAEcc/Xy4XaG9ZXpI/s1600/IMG_5835.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 239px; height: 320px; float: left; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5769969497462799890" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-puXSWu26HmY/UBMMr_Ub_hI/AAAAAAAAEcc/Xy4XaG9ZXpI/s320/IMG_5835.JPG" /></a>I also decided to get my "last" tattoo while we were there, and have got to brag, that it was my easiest, and fastest tattoo yet!!! I have been wanting to get something meaningful to being a mother since Jax was born, and only more so after Liam was born. So after almost a year and a half of thinking about it, finally got it done. I kept with the Chinese Kanji symbols that my other tattoos are in, and had the symbol for "Mother and Son" done! It's definitely my most special one now!<br /><br />All in all, it was a great visit. It was much shorter than I would have liked, but my next visit will be a longer visit where we can see all those we seem to always miss. </div><div> </div><div align="justify">Flying back home was just as "fun" as flying in... After flying out of Pasco and into Minneapolis, we once again were delayed. This time, it was delay after delay, then we finally boarded, only to sit on a hot airplane for two hours before they decided we weren't flying out just yet. Thankfully, one of the flight attendants gave the boys a break from sitting still and quiet, and brought them up to the cockpit <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yiLf2v7aoTU/UBMPCurnY-I/AAAAAAAAEdo/yjP6Kplle8M/s1600/IMG_5878.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 320px; height: 241px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5769972087156859874" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yiLf2v7aoTU/UBMPCurnY-I/AAAAAAAAEdo/yjP6Kplle8M/s320/IMG_5878.JPG" /></a>where the captain showed Jax everything there is to flying. That was so much fun for Jax, and this woman really saved a lot of us from a lot of screaming! After another 30 minutes, we de-boarded the plane and after another round of delays, food vouchers, tears and tantrums, we were finally allowed to re-board and were on our way. That only meant a whole lot longer day for me, as we had originally planned to land around 4pm, then drive home and be in our beds by "bedtime". We finally landed in Nashville around 6:45, and after getting our damaged luggage, food and coffee, then the tedious drive home, we were all safe and sound and in bed by 2am!!!</div><div> </div><div align="justify">Very glad to be home of course and the puppies are glad that we are home too! Now to enjoy the rest of our time in our spacious home with all of our belongings before our next to trip back to MI!!! :)</div>Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-82301217278705059482012-06-13T19:26:00.002-04:002012-06-13T19:29:57.184-04:00Yooper Hospitality...<div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">I am really beginning to think the UP residents are a different species. Literally everyone I've met is awesomely nice. </span></div>This is what happened today...<br /><br /><br /><center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/sdhanson7/FallAndWinter201102#5753666938059625074"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-EyXKrfEf9cs/T9khmI70EnI/AAAAAAAAEZY/OgiB0-5AD4U/s288/25.jpg" border="0" width="281" height="210" style="margin:5px" /></a></center><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">While the boys and I were out on our nature walk to feed the birds, we were ran down by a gal who's staying in another unit behind us. "Mrs. TN!!! Mrs. TN!!! You look like you got your hands full, so I found this and it's a little dirty, but nothing a hose (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">whoooos</span>) won't clean off!!" She gave us a nice Little <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Tikes</span> heavy duty wagon!!! I've met her one time, and she was so sweet to think of us when she pulled it out of the trash <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">lol</span>. (yes out of the trash, described as a hobby up here "trash to treasures") </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Then she brushed it off, got the cobwebs off, and helped me keep the boys in check while we fed birds and walked around the area which was really nice, because I have three boys now. I volunteered for Dean's boss to bring his son who just turned 4 to MI, and I would watch him during the day with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Jax</span> and Liam. He doesn't get to see his son much and so I figured why not. Today was our first day, and so far so good aside from the normal 3-4 y/o "mine mine mine" stuff! Kevin (dad) is so excited to get to see him every day, and Landon is a sweetie, who has a sister the same age as Liam so he's very loving with him too! </span></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Anyway, I might not wanna leave this place because it is so pretty and the people are exceptionally great! </span></div>Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-66153990437287153672012-06-10T17:24:00.013-04:002012-06-10T19:14:50.923-04:00Michigan Madness Part 1...<div align="justify">After a busy week and a half, the boys and I have had a great time here in the Upper Peninsula! We've even made some local friends that we've had a few play dates with and have plans for more fun days!!<br />The UP is very pretty! The whole town has a gorgeous view of Lake Michigan, and I'm completely jealous of the home owners who literally have the lake as their back yard! The weather has been great and thankfully we haven't seen the cold and rainy stuff that we arrived in! Actually the weather isn't much different from what we are missing back home! It's been in the upper 70's, but with a very nice breeze coming off the lake!<br /><br />The first two days, we didn't do much, just tried to find everything and make sure we got a good visit in with Dean before he had to work on Monday. The first day was cold and rainy, so we just ran errands, and stayed close to the apartment. I wish it hadn't been so cold, because they had a really neat classic car show that apparently is a really big deal, and thousands come each year to check it out. It sounds like it was very similar to Cool Desert Nights, and of course I hate that I never get to be home for that each year, so I was pretty bummed about not getting to go when something like that was so close!! Thankfully, a few of the cars ended up staying at the hotel here so I got to admire them from the windows! There are also quite a few that are still in town, probably locals enjoying their cars in this weather! :)<br /></div><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 239px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5752524446665066178" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zFUwYIahcfE/T9USgY04xsI/AAAAAAAAEXc/YiF269VV2uM/s320/IMG_5311.JPG" /><p align="justify"> On Sunday, we all took our first trip to Lake Michigan!! The water is really low right now, so it was shallow enough for us to walk out quite a ways before it even got deep. Jax was a little hesitant, but after seeing other kids running through the water, he joined right in. Surprisingly the water wasn't too cold. Liam didn't know what to think of the sand/mud, but let me take a few photos of him with a smile!</p><p align="center"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/sdhanson7/FallAndWinter201102#5752525894345448258"><img style="margin: 5px;" border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-oUv3d0Bhz00/T9UT0p2yW0I/AAAAAAAAEXs/rQso975TC1E/s288/26.jpg" width="281" height="210" /></a></p><p align="center"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/sdhanson7/FallAndWinter201102#5752525917206306642"><img style="margin: 5px;" border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-sr_XcLk3aLw/T9UT1_BPX1I/AAAAAAAAEX0/hhR-N8DI7xE/s288/27.jpg" width="281" height="210" /></a></p><center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/sdhanson7/FallAndWinter201102#5752525936300255074"><img style="margin: 5px;" border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zPxlTn30oAI/T9UT3GJl52I/AAAAAAAAEX8/ShSPimXi-AU/s288/28.jpg" width="212" height="281" /></a></center><div align="justify">We all plan on going to Lake Superior before we leave, but heard the water there was MUCH colder. I would just like to say that we have all been, and am hoping we get a chance to check out the scenic rocks called "Pictured Rocks". If not, then we'll just plan a day for the beach there, and maybe it will be a hot enough day to cancel out the cold water!<br /><br />We also took a trip out to Dean's job site so that we could all see where Daddy worked and the big windmill erected last year! It's a beautiful drive out, and only 35 minutes away from where we're staying! There is only one turbine up right now, but pretty soon 14 more will be soaring through the fields overlooking the lake! Jax was so excited to see what Daddy did, and has now decided he'll help build windmills when he's a little bit older! Of course we couldn't go right up to the windmill for safety reasons, but we got as close as we could for some pictures!<br /></div><p align="center"><a style="margin-right: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N0yFefJ9o9Y/T9UJE0g_6EI/AAAAAAAAEV8/q8_mYjXlhnk/s1600/IMG_5379.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N0yFefJ9o9Y/T9UJE0g_6EI/AAAAAAAAEV8/q8_mYjXlhnk/s320/IMG_5379.JPG" width="239" height="320" /></a></p><a style="margin-right: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N0yFefJ9o9Y/T9UJE0g_6EI/AAAAAAAAEV8/q8_mYjXlhnk/s1600/IMG_5379.JPG" imageanchor="1"></a><div align="justify">This is only the second site in the USA to build these turbines. (The one above is literally the 2nd one). It's a G-97 turbine, which is about 30' feet shorter than the windmills Dean had worked on in the past, but the blades are much longer so it makes the turbine look out of proportion.<br /></div><center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/sdhanson7/FallAndWinter201102#5752525963783896130"><img style="margin: 5px;" border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-DvD7erk3ve0/T9UT4siM_EI/AAAAAAAAEYE/rZKYAnXckeg/s288/29.jpg" width="210" height="281" /></a></center><br />The photo above is of a top out crane. Just to show you how big these suckers are, the small crane next to it, is a normal size crane!<br /><center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/sdhanson7/FallAndWinter201102#5752525989510022642"><img style="margin: 5px;" border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-a112_6ge-e8/T9UT6MXyhfI/AAAAAAAAEYM/5uu5k7sBolo/s288/30.jpg" width="210" height="281" /></a></center><p align="justify">Daddy let Jax get dressed up in his gear to take a look! He thought he was pretty cool stuff "working" with Daddy! :)</p><p align="justify">As we were loading up, Jax put his fingers in the opening of the truck doors (back door opened and on the side), and Dean unknowingly slammed his poor fingers in the door. :( Dean felt absolutely horrible, but a few tears later from both Mommy and Jax, and ice cream for dinner he felt much better. So glad that we woke up to normal colored fingers! That could have been a bad accident! My poor baby has had a rough two weeks!!<br /><br />The past week with Dean at work, the boys and I have had lots of beach and playground days! There are two really nice beaches with these huge playgrounds for the boys to burn off energy at! The first day is where I met a local mom and her son who's six, but played really good with Jax! So we exchanged numbers and have had several other dates already including going to see Madagascar 3 and a fun day at the park! Everyone I've met and talked with here is so nice, and very eager to share the fun things to do in the town. The "Yoopers" are definitely giving the southerners a run for their money in hospitality!</p><p align="center"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/sdhanson7/FallAndWinter201102#5752526077148960082"><img style="margin: 5px;" border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Pe-m6S_l4i4/T9UT_S2ilVI/AAAAAAAAEYs/YoW2a9AHE58/s288/34.jpg" width="210" height="281" /></a></p><p align="center"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/sdhanson7/FallAndWinter201102#5752526105371193442"><img style="margin: 5px;" border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-CFKY6QxTT4o/T9UUA7_PsGI/AAAAAAAAEY0/sV18k2wufZ0/s288/35.jpg" width="281" height="210" /></a><p align="justify">We have also gone to visit the Sand Point Lighthouse and Museum, and all three of us had a really good time! Jax was very interested in the old trains, and the big bicycle, and all the components to operate a lighthouse. He really wanted to stay there, and said he would stay in the little room, but would really like his Cars to come too. There was an old school bell that both the boys had fun ringing, but they were very loud!! So cool to experience the historical parts of our trip, and even if the boys don't remember it, I will!</p><p align="center"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/sdhanson7/FallAndWinter201102#5752526057328462946"><img style="margin: 5px;" border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ihoCnwiYTzc/T9UT-JA9zGI/AAAAAAAAEYk/-pIB0tRXnNg/s288/33.jpg" width="210" height="281" /></a></p><center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/sdhanson7/FallAndWinter201102#5752526039036976962"><img style="margin: 5px;" border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-5dFCTYJdjTA/T9UT9E3730I/AAAAAAAAEYc/cPcFC-3DpgI/s288/32.jpg" width="281" height="210" /></a><br /></center><div align="justify">The days we decide to stay "home", we spend a lot of time outside since it's so nice! I brought the boy's cars to ride on, and there is a nice area in the back parking lot that's not being used, and far away from the main road in front. I also found a sprinkler to keep the boys entertained, although I didn't really ask to play for more than a few minutes.<br /></div><center><img style="margin: 5px;" border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-FkdYdMt1MJc/T9UT7ljkFlI/AAAAAAAAEYU/hWRENK6BrGs/s288/31.jpg" width="281" height="210" /></center><div align="justify">Today with Dean off, we had family day, and spent several hours riding go-karts, bumper boats and 18 holes of putt putt golf! Jax did so good, and played all 18 holes and helped keep score for everyone! After all that, we stopped in at a famous candy shop called Sayklly's where I easily ran up a $20+ bill for all the sweets! Their chocolate is sooooo good!</div><p align="center"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/sdhanson7/FallAndWinter201102#5752526134012118450"><img style="margin: 5px;" border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-D9JpZ0pq4oE/T9UUCmrxhbI/AAAAAAAAEY8/EqS0fbRa9sA/s288/36.jpg" width="210" height="281" /></a></p><center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/sdhanson7/FallAndWinter201102#5752526163758459218"><img style="margin: 5px;" border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9W6jwk8a8LM/T9UUEVf2qVI/AAAAAAAAEZE/4jyD-yAxHbc/s288/37.jpg" width="210" height="281" /></a><br /></center><center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/sdhanson7/FallAndWinter201102#5752526190784037778"><img style="margin: 5px;" border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-pmbZWLWfEsk/T9UUF6LQQ5I/AAAAAAAAEZM/IWO8JtiFApo/s288/38.jpg" width="210" height="281" /></a></center><p align="justify">The suites that we're staying at also have a country club right up the road, and now that the outdoor pool is open, I plan on lots of time up there as well! Our hotel has a pool and spa, but it's indoors and that's not good for anything but rainy days! I would much rather be at a beach, so I don't have to fear the boys falling in without me right there, but the pool is good to have right up the road for a quick trip vs. packing for the day and dealing with the aftermath of sand!<br /><br />There are several things I have planned for the upcoming weeks, and trying to keep the boredom level down, but for the most part, we are on a schedule and having a really fun time. Liam has decided once again, to cut teeth on "vacation" and is currently working on 3 or 4 at the same time. So the past two days have been pretty hard on him, but if this means he won't be miserable on the plane ride to WA, I'll take it.<br /><br />Dean's work hours have varied, but it's still very nice to be home and get to see him for a little bit each day, and then definitely take advantage of the days he gets off early! I know that we'll be busy after we leave here with flying home, but we're all really going to miss not seeing Daddy until we decide to come back up!<br /><br />We'll that's my update for now. I've got an album loaded with the pictures from this trip so far.<br /><br />Hope everyone is doing well!<br /><br />Love Shylah and the Boys!!! </p><p align="justify">(P.S. My next blog update probably won't be until after we get home and do a trip recap, as Dean's computer absolutely hates me, and has made something so simple as loading pictures and adding paragraphs between take almost 3 hours!!!) </p>Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4677879047098940700.post-84363399780537835322012-06-03T22:32:00.001-04:002012-06-03T22:32:39.937-04:00Road trip to Michigan...After 939.7 miles, the boys and I are safe and sound in Escanaba, MI. What an adventure it was traveling through 5 states, with two kids, solo!!! All in all it wasn't terrible, but the boys are definitely glad to be here and not strapped in their car seats. I have feeling the trip back home is going to be miserable!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We left on Thursday morning about 10:30 after all my last minute errands, and making sure things on the home front were good. The first three hours were amazing, the boys watched their movies, slept, and other than an occasional request for another dum-dum, I was able to concentrate on driving as far as I could before stopping. Then the fourth hour set in... hungry, tired boys, and a car that needed gas. We stopped for lunch in Kentucky, along with ice cream and continued on. Thankfully the boys took a good nap and I winced through having to go to the bathroom after my fourth cup of coffee, but I was determined to get as far as I could before the boys woke up. I had originally planned on driving 400 miles, but I took advantage of the daylight and ended up going 567. </div>
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We drove through Kentucky and almost through Indiana before the sky opened up and decided to start storming. About 75 miles from our stopping point, we drove by a wind farm with the same type of windmills that Dean has worked on in the past. I immediately started slapping Jaxon's leg, who has learned to completely tune me out and focus on his movies. He took off his head phones with a, "yeah Mommy, what is it?" I pointed out the window and told him to look at the windmills. He was so excited, I think more so because he thought we were at Daddy's and no longer needed to be punished in the van... For the past three weeks, on our countdown to go see Daddy, he's told everyone that we are going to see Daddy at his windmill show, after watching a new show on the weather channel called 'Turbine Cowboys'. He was crushed when I told him that we still had a long way to go, and that Daddy was not anywhere in that windmill farm. I forgot how big they are when you are right up next to them, but even then, they still looked small since I have stared straight up one before. </div>
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After we marveled at the sights of the big windmills, we passed another windmill farm, that was much smaller, and were the older latice style. Jax was not impressed with these at all. We finally pulled into Merrillville, IN where we got a rude welcoming when checking into the hotel Dean had prebooked for us. Apparently this city was a big project sight for BP and there were about 2500 men staying there for the job. We were expecting to just check in, and go to sleep, but were only given the option of a smoking room, which after checking it out, wouldn't have been much different then sleeping on a bar room floor. So we cancelled our reservations only to be told that we would have to pay the full price anyways... (don't worry I got it worked out with the help of two screaming, extremely tired babies!) Out of 16 hotels in a 5 minute radius, we got the last NS room at nice hotel, and called it a night. 10 hours on the road had all three of us out in minutes. </div>
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<br />The next morning, we started out planning on a much quicker trip and arriving to our Home Away From Home by 2:30-3:00. We only had a little over 300 miles to go, and so I figured 4 1/2 hours and that was it... NOT THE CASE. </div>
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<br />I'm certain that the boys were set out to ruin my day as much as I ruined theirs by strapping them back in their car seats. Neither one was having anything to do with the van today! We drove less than an hour and had stopped three times already. Then it got worse! As we were headed up the interstate, we came across our first toll road. Dean had warned me about them, but for some reason I thought they were going to be on the other side of Chicago. I didn't want to risk stopping again, at the cost of another multi-melt down, so I scrounged up the cash I had and just drove... 5 TOLL ROADS LATER... If it weren't for my awesome three year old, I would have sailed through these with no issues, but somebody, ahem, told Jax that if he saved up enough money, he could buy the next Disney Cars car he's been wanting. This has resulted in him "finding" money in every nook in cranny of every home, vehicle and parking lot for the last month. Therefore I was literally asking Jax for money to pay the last toll. When we finally got onto this toll road with five pennies to spare, THEN Jax had to go potty. I wasn't about to ask him if he could hold it, because I know too well that he holds it anyways, and so asking him to hold it even longer would result in an accident. Soooo, as soon as we paid our fee, we had to take the next exit. When we finally got off, I realized I had picked the absolute worst exit to take. No gas stations, no restaurants, just an executive building complex. I had no choice but to force Jax to pee in the grass, which of course led to tears and an all out tantrum only to remember that as soon as you get back on a toll road, you must pay AGAIN... When you have no money, you pay extra... Lovely! The very next exit was an Oasis that had lots of places to eat in one building, bathrooms, gas and an ATM, it was also free to come and go without penalty of paying to enter the toll road. Go figure. Thankfully I had cash now, and only one more toll to go!!!</div>
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<br />As soon as we got past all of THAT, Liam was out, and again, I concentrated on going as fast and as far as I could before our next stop. Had Liam not been asleep, I think I would have lost my mind as we entered Chicago. First of all, living in the sticks has completely ruined any chance of big city living again!!! I was so scared, white knuckle gripping as cars zoomed past me on either side. For the first time in a loooong time, I was actually doing the speed limit willingly! With every car that passed us, our van shook and all I could think about was getting in a wreck with the boys, and the thought of the airbag exploding into my nose! After 30 minutes of complete chaos and merging 6 lanes over, I was in a groove with the traffic, and stopped long enough to snap a few pictures of Sweet Home Chicago... :) What a beautiful city, even through the rain! The old buildings on each side of the interstate were breathtaking. I am really hoping to stop in Chicago on our way back, maybe even swing by Cellular Stadium since it's right off the interstate! :)</div>
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After the terrifying drive through the city, we were Wisconsin Bound with blue sky's peaking out through the rain! For the most part, Wisconsin is nothing but flat plains and farm lands. Also very pretty. I was surprised though as we approached Green Bay that there weren't more buildings or a big city. I thought it would have a pretty skyline and that Lambeau Field would have green and yellow lights shining down from the Heavens... I'm pretty sure that I saw the stadium, all by itself in the middle of nowhere, but it could have been the Port of Green Bay for all I know... Anyways, not as impressive as I thought it would have been, but also do plan on stopping there on the way back to pick up some Packers gear for a few friends!</div>
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From Green Bay, we only had 120 miles to go... Once again, we had about four more stops before we actually made any progress! The boys were beyond annoyed about another hour and a half, but I finally had the right mindset to tune them out! </div>
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We finally got to Escanaba at 6:45 pm, which was 3 hours past our goal, and less than half way in the same time!! </div>
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Several things I noted on this road trip: 1. If everything I was suppose to learn (and retain) in school were put in a song, I would have passed with a 4.0! Thank you Pandora for getting me here with nothing but oldies, which I had EVERY SINGLE SONG BUT ONE memorized! 2. Lake Michigan is GINORMOUS! 3. A bag of dum-dums last exactly 939.7 miles. 4. My kids hate the Hotyssey. 5. Car seats lead to matted hair balls. 6. Cheerleading ruined my knees! 7. Two days without using a Neti pot sucks! 8. TN to MI is a VERY long drive, but still less than half way to WA, so that will NEVER happen... And 9. Milwaukee is NOT a state (see #1). </div>
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I won't admit that I sped the ENTIRE way, but I will say that it's a miracle going through 5 states that I didn't get a ticket! I still have the trip home, so I won't count my chickens before they hatch, but you know that makes for a nice ride! I'm also in love with the van!! Other than my knees hurting from being bent for 10 hours, two days in a row, I was extremely comfortable, and wasn't sore at all!! In past vehicles, even a trip to Nashville ended up with a sore back, so the review on the comfort and seating is a 10+ for sure!! Was also nice having the sunroof open on day one, and getting a nice pink "tan" on my right side!! </div>
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I'm so excited for the next 20 days here as a family! The town is very cute and quiet! Today we drove around and found some parks, restaurants and marveled at the beautiful Victorian neighborhoods!! If it weren't for the winters here, I would love to stay!!! </div>
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Hoping the next few weeks warm up some. I checked the weather before packing, but got a rude awakening stepping outside wearing shorts and tank tops in 47 degrees!!! I also forgot you could easily subtract 10 for the wind that comes off the water!! I know it would have been a nightmare, but my only regret is leaving Nash at home. Argo would never work here, but Nash would have the time of his life with water surrounding him!!! Maybe next time!!!</div>
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<br />I will update often with our MI summer excursion!!! There is a lot to do here, and I definitely can't wait to make some memories!!</div>
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<br />Love you,</div>
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Shylah </div>Shylahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07271668188307855714noreply@blogger.com