tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34581848875502139612024-03-04T19:58:36.616-08:00Raina's RetreatNavigating my way as a Work-at-home-MomRaina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.comBlogger146125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-36888834688948355442011-07-10T21:46:00.000-07:002011-07-10T23:10:04.218-07:00Rough DaySaturday started out perfect. We were going to spend the day with Great Grandma, go out to eat, and shopping. I even got to get ready all by myself that morning thanks to my wonderful husband. I took my time and felt great! On the way to Grandma's House I glanced in my rear view mirror and smiled at my kids. Meri was staring out the window with her first two fingers hanging on her pucker. Bry was playing his DS as happy as can be. <br />We arrived and headed inside for a few minutes before we left for lunch. Meri asked for a cookie like she always does and Bry eyed Grandma's rolling sit/stand walker. He was pushing Meri around, I had just said "Bry if you want to push her you must go slow or she could tip over. Next thing I new he pushed fast and let go, she crashed into an all wood rocker. I was steps away and lifted him out of the way, when I picked her up I said "Grandma, lots of blood!" Now if you know me, you know that I tend to panic, especially when one of my babies get hurt. I knew it was bad, blood was everywhere, and I could see through her lip. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLKIbDpmOyNuU7lmF66S9njvh7S9tb_UqFf1avkqnwikXU8VknWGVETxP-KmjWFrWrqyfPmieeqiTInZ9Yft-6U26mdtkGAR19P_YjYO5aO7mPXSeN9iygwX7t5PrycN-buAY5ohIua7bf/s1600/Meredith%2527s+Trip+to+the+Hospital+040.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 299px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627953643847027410" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLKIbDpmOyNuU7lmF66S9njvh7S9tb_UqFf1avkqnwikXU8VknWGVETxP-KmjWFrWrqyfPmieeqiTInZ9Yft-6U26mdtkGAR19P_YjYO5aO7mPXSeN9iygwX7t5PrycN-buAY5ohIua7bf/s400/Meredith%2527s+Trip+to+the+Hospital+040.JPG" /></a> It looks small. But when she cries it gapes open and you can see her gums. Of course I was comforting her when she was crying, so I didn't get a picture. I call my husband and headed to the ER. I was crying just as much as she was. Bry was crying because he didn't mean to hurt her. And Grandma was trying to calm everyone. All the crying caused it to tear more. By the time we got to the hospital it went all the way to the bottom of her lip. We pieced together all that had happened and realized it was the rocking chair that had gone through her lip and busted the top lip as well.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv56L2AhAitrylBODpTEOGu9gQ2EN52vhXZPSXZgA7yi9POWWUBgjeDUXESQXaL4lIRKilkRnq-6wD471JhBNQXf9j6UEWZZp111GUA-rucUGFNPD4MNCF1qPlewEOtUBeX2SZFpbSHSlZ/s1600/Meredith%2527s+Trip+to+the+Hospital+041.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 299px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627953640111375074" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv56L2AhAitrylBODpTEOGu9gQ2EN52vhXZPSXZgA7yi9POWWUBgjeDUXESQXaL4lIRKilkRnq-6wD471JhBNQXf9j6UEWZZp111GUA-rucUGFNPD4MNCF1qPlewEOtUBeX2SZFpbSHSlZ/s400/Meredith%2527s+Trip+to+the+Hospital+041.JPG" /></a> As much blood as there was and as big as the whole was, the ER wasted no time and had us right into the laceration room. The doctor came in and ordered sedation for Meri. I was informed that once the shot was given it would take 30 minutes to take effect. I was comforting my crying baby and within 60 seconds she went from crying to stoned faced, blank, noiseless breathing, drooling. I honestly thought something was really wrong, I thought she was dying, she just lay with her eyes partially open and motionless. The nurse called the doctor (who thought he had 30 minutes) and things started happening really fast. I stood at the edge of the bed rubbing her hair the whole time and knowing she could hear me, I talked to her the whole time. My biggest concern was that the shot impaired her ability to display emotion and that she could feel it all but couldn't tell us. As he got to the inside of her lip she began making sounds 'uhhhh'. It just killed me. I'm almost positive that she felt the last three stitches. After 8 stitches total in my little 26 lb, 2 year old girl. <br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWAHbq25Y6EfBlPptc-MyAprWETeGOM3kaJ-l1tz3Rwav4EtQdTD-x8g0quUWPCejEDGAHUQrC5ylrmwzg0nsGbcZlECFF-yM6wwv4HnC2iWWQ7_mR_ha0deRL16a7XE0KbiGi0jRaNjeH/s1600/Meredith%2527s+Trip+to+the+Hospital+043.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 299px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627953633395445618" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWAHbq25Y6EfBlPptc-MyAprWETeGOM3kaJ-l1tz3Rwav4EtQdTD-x8g0quUWPCejEDGAHUQrC5ylrmwzg0nsGbcZlECFF-yM6wwv4HnC2iWWQ7_mR_ha0deRL16a7XE0KbiGi0jRaNjeH/s400/Meredith%2527s+Trip+to+the+Hospital+043.JPG" /></a>Here she is after her procedure. I changed her diaper and her clothes, the nurse and I wrapped her in warm blankets since she was shaking cold coming out of anesthesia. <br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGr8e3BZxUBM8cARDNc-wt6f6RDFFiVpHLF63DAPulzI3Pz4HLEjct8N7tepxgN021Wb65U9hKLYKZZmDlLYJ6V9LfUv4WR32aObIUjt5pOAIKeHxBsH4VlUMMXsgtSb44X7WHorBFgBGc/s1600/Meredith%2527s+Trip+to+the+Hospital+045.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 299px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627953629073572338" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGr8e3BZxUBM8cARDNc-wt6f6RDFFiVpHLF63DAPulzI3Pz4HLEjct8N7tepxgN021Wb65U9hKLYKZZmDlLYJ6V9LfUv4WR32aObIUjt5pOAIKeHxBsH4VlUMMXsgtSb44X7WHorBFgBGc/s400/Meredith%2527s+Trip+to+the+Hospital+045.JPG" /></a> And she settled down for a nap after all that trauma while still hooked to monitors to watch her heart rate and pulse-ox. The doctor checked on her and told the nurse that the band aide wasn't appropriate for her chin, so now she dones tape and gauze with medicine. </div><br /><div>She's resting now and it seems that she may sleep through the night tonight. All of this is a small drop in the bucket compared the grand scheme. But I'm thankful for praying and answered prayer. Not to mention, my incredible Grandma, wonderful Husband, and great friend for coming to get my son. <br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTfutZP4iaSJNKkYkJR8_FeDoUCok1lWUg97NRgC7G1sg7FPM6WdPBfKxZ-sWGZTTi0xO20KsE_QUT4efve8HS5Lc1Pknj591rRA_rmxyCZ7nstPFq3zF303Or39u6QcfCeRjGzCLnlMVt/s1600/Meredith%2527s+Trip+to+the+Hospital+047.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 299px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627953622485846610" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTfutZP4iaSJNKkYkJR8_FeDoUCok1lWUg97NRgC7G1sg7FPM6WdPBfKxZ-sWGZTTi0xO20KsE_QUT4efve8HS5Lc1Pknj591rRA_rmxyCZ7nstPFq3zF303Or39u6QcfCeRjGzCLnlMVt/s400/Meredith%2527s+Trip+to+the+Hospital+047.JPG" /></a><br />Friday the stitches will come out!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div>Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-62969991098187283562011-06-14T19:31:00.001-07:002011-06-14T19:44:45.904-07:00Summer Time<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhavojV49CIElQKbFI39njePZriY2Dw8vYhN8qf0sm6CczQLmzgvSV64dD-jzcBCFfHFRBGkEFJOKD1vrClFqKYbD1MfO2mYbL8gzxowfwVXYInHyCoBwceS22Qa0f_cN0ltybkVdAePIEN/s1600/6-7-11+045.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 299px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618270213065479042" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhavojV49CIElQKbFI39njePZriY2Dw8vYhN8qf0sm6CczQLmzgvSV64dD-jzcBCFfHFRBGkEFJOKD1vrClFqKYbD1MfO2mYbL8gzxowfwVXYInHyCoBwceS22Qa0f_cN0ltybkVdAePIEN/s400/6-7-11+045.JPG" /></a> Birthday Celebrating!</div><br /><div align="center">Me, 30!</div><br /><div align="center">Bry, 6!<br /></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtZpxsXGIdTlnjTJBgxEWUSFPGj-pJABUPa1y2EVhHu3-6NBLe4Nca5Zxyu3AupsOvbGuKllMcKyPKLF0YNyi_-WNCkGkBL_jjWid2NjVeWxYWmns_WdMVQ_hJWbsLwWfVBdALIqrVasVY/s1600/6-14-11+016.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 299px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618270208821520834" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtZpxsXGIdTlnjTJBgxEWUSFPGj-pJABUPa1y2EVhHu3-6NBLe4Nca5Zxyu3AupsOvbGuKllMcKyPKLF0YNyi_-WNCkGkBL_jjWid2NjVeWxYWmns_WdMVQ_hJWbsLwWfVBdALIqrVasVY/s400/6-14-11+016.JPG" /></a> Creative Movement Dance Class Dancing!<br /><br /><br /></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYfPLo-j5NfEvsNJxN5mcv-bAWtRdzei0XF9jOTZqCIxjzvs0WkWsUtpJp7i0g0wEd_CQVH6ep4nmyiemS6xKoT7sQP7btKIBYFRFlmWC7nS3eRYRWYZCZzhH8de86dYjscCvwf-qgGM4F/s1600/6-14-11+004.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 299px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618270197694938466" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYfPLo-j5NfEvsNJxN5mcv-bAWtRdzei0XF9jOTZqCIxjzvs0WkWsUtpJp7i0g0wEd_CQVH6ep4nmyiemS6xKoT7sQP7btKIBYFRFlmWC7nS3eRYRWYZCZzhH8de86dYjscCvwf-qgGM4F/s400/6-14-11+004.JPG" /></a>Baseball watching!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaD3BtTQzE_Bbe8lZFajRF6qhOJTr4vAGpGGKKwufpiP9a-KjtnKRVxeYGt-eaxFXv9WzkwkEokY8U_P_gpUjHx_7b2ANuFY2svKg5G7iiPB_jJNn0ouH-Su-G1EgJiWZ3OdmXiuJe_ySs/s1600/6-14-11+007.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 299px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618270191947731938" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaD3BtTQzE_Bbe8lZFajRF6qhOJTr4vAGpGGKKwufpiP9a-KjtnKRVxeYGt-eaxFXv9WzkwkEokY8U_P_gpUjHx_7b2ANuFY2svKg5G7iiPB_jJNn0ouH-Su-G1EgJiWZ3OdmXiuJe_ySs/s400/6-14-11+007.JPG" /></a> Pony Tail wearing (1st time)</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Summer Time<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div><br /></div>Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-14459282994144733482011-06-08T23:32:00.000-07:002011-06-08T23:49:37.817-07:00A month to Share<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzYB-GjYfUSutJg1U5Vwyf2o09Hn0OnCLLsqvzPPNSNtdPZ9gP4kAbCPPmtl8fKzFMzsg3b2FV1sGhkql9zdDCLFQ8EbwZHRxpg42orNVJUQPHIVtRgizsLD5fKIcD381-CdkGO95aUhQV/s1600/iphone+pics+141.PNG"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMMM9DcpZntP8fRfLsG7N93YFmakVPVsf7plu6oDVTUBBpQYMMczYPIOjqV0M13QnnIiHpEYoGvmo1cBE-PHkyvqiW8Lm64TZMvlZvvzQLoKK1vitpBxulYElTXKQqdmsyWpQ_mOogP9wL/s1600/iphone+pics+140.PNG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616105020510200050" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMMM9DcpZntP8fRfLsG7N93YFmakVPVsf7plu6oDVTUBBpQYMMczYPIOjqV0M13QnnIiHpEYoGvmo1cBE-PHkyvqiW8Lm64TZMvlZvvzQLoKK1vitpBxulYElTXKQqdmsyWpQ_mOogP9wL/s400/iphone+pics+140.PNG" /></a> For Mother's Day I had Little M professionally photographed. At the end of June we are having both kids and single shots of my son! I can't wait!<br /><br />I've taken on the job of a summer helper at one of my friend's home daycare. Which translates to, my kids get free entertainment, and I get to play with cute little babies! After only one week of working I'm on vacation because the owner is on vacation! Ha! Next week I will work and then I'll be off for another week to volunteer at my church's VBS. I loved VBS as a kid and now I get to share it with my own children.<br /><br />A baby BOOM has taken place across my Facebook page! It's so great to see people that I grew up with have their own family. At the same time, I'm saddened by friends that were killed at a younger age. <br /><br />My anxiety/depression is pretty much stable. Most days are good. Even better now that severe weather has subsided. My town was struck with an EF1, that same tornado went on and destroyed another town, Denten, where it had obviously strengthened. My heart goes out to all those that were lost. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div>Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-17429669735160404902011-05-03T17:39:00.000-07:002011-05-03T17:48:30.877-07:00LOLRecently my mom has joined the world of texting. I'm getting a lot of text from her as she practices her new found talent.<br />I asked my mom this past Sunday if I could have her newspaper for the ads and coupons (as I attempt to delve into couponing). Here is how our text conversation went:<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO8G9XlRFI1AW2JwOb9Ng5iKsSlWjDkvTMn7B63y55lCuYWtzJHWm0SttOdQG67d218LI2vcHV_6cQCMIsqmNSRsD2RoXq-yvCFoI-D89-paTB5bnB3QbvWxQZhBYyCffyLP4Cta00dbZi/s1600/LOL+Blog+Post.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602654913556754050" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO8G9XlRFI1AW2JwOb9Ng5iKsSlWjDkvTMn7B63y55lCuYWtzJHWm0SttOdQG67d218LI2vcHV_6cQCMIsqmNSRsD2RoXq-yvCFoI-D89-paTB5bnB3QbvWxQZhBYyCffyLP4Cta00dbZi/s400/LOL+Blog+Post.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div>So, this morning I called my mom up and said "Mom, what does LOL mean?" She says "Lots of Love". Awe, the sweet innocents of a parent learning to text. I educated her on the 'real' meaning just in case she gets a text that someone has died, I'd hate for her to reply with "Oh, I'm so sorry. LOL"</div>Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-32396946047619301362011-05-02T18:02:00.000-07:002011-05-02T18:21:18.640-07:00Goals for MayApril showers bring May flowers! However, the rain clouds didn't get the memo. I don't think it has stopped raining once for 48 hour straight!<br />So, we have been spending a lot of time inside and Spring Fever is spreading like wildfire. As I was doing laundry (<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">never ending</span>) I got to thinking, thinking about my laziness. I've been in a funk lately. I'm overwhelmed by this messy house and I just feel like throwing in the towel. But I don't have a clean one to throw! ha<br />Time for me to get out of the funk and not only set goals but <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">achieve</span> them! For this month I'm going to think of 5 <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">achievable</span> goals.<br />1. I'm going to read <a href="http://http//en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_for_Elephants">Water for Elephants</a>. I have had the book for a while but never actually read it.<br />2. Spring clean my kitchen/dining area including the over loaded pantry that also doubles as my craft closet.<br />3. I've faithfully attended our Beth Moore Bible Study meetings, but this time around I didn't do the homework, so I plan on getting at least the first two weeks of homework done with a fine tooth comb.<br />4. Get at least one purse made. I haven't been in the mood to sew much lately, but I have a purse promised to a friend I hold dear, so I shall get my hands, scissors, and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">sewing</span> machine in gear!<br />5. Write at least 5 letters to my little brother. He is going to be gone for a while. I don't know how long, but I want him to know that wherever he is, his sister loves him no matter what. Even though he aggravates my every nerve.Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-55407087946554428432011-04-26T14:48:00.000-07:002011-04-26T14:59:52.730-07:00"Can I pick a flower Mom?"<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYYHHKV-QuFrXazWdRbm64N3mRdh7SdIVAyOI3NHxvNFVcxUco_XVv8YwkszRipKtt-w_2KS2PO2weH_GH-rZcq4yrDIO6Ea7-QKVPq6vfyCn08ZYC4hF3h6hejGZAlGynW8kgYm3vKIqA/s1600/GG%2527s+roses.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 299px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600013180255595170" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYYHHKV-QuFrXazWdRbm64N3mRdh7SdIVAyOI3NHxvNFVcxUco_XVv8YwkszRipKtt-w_2KS2PO2weH_GH-rZcq4yrDIO6Ea7-QKVPq6vfyCn08ZYC4hF3h6hejGZAlGynW8kgYm3vKIqA/s400/GG%2527s+roses.jpg" /></a> My Grandma has beautiful roses in the front of her house. B-man asked if he could pick some for his Aunt Sarah, Emma, and cousin Whitney. I was really glad he asked instead of just picking without permission.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl8HYpDkN9zarzQSzv3BzSpFACuEqLBZl0rpm-aC-enqMBnBnZa3TxLf0rzLCBiaFYBn_icoD0cEc9fhpN9iflmATli0PB9ORFSvizyyODLXEM1KAOwGgByTcQ7W41O72DJVsEm0BQIIGC/s1600/Clipping+Roses.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 299px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600013182985466322" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl8HYpDkN9zarzQSzv3BzSpFACuEqLBZl0rpm-aC-enqMBnBnZa3TxLf0rzLCBiaFYBn_icoD0cEc9fhpN9iflmATli0PB9ORFSvizyyODLXEM1KAOwGgByTcQ7W41O72DJVsEm0BQIIGC/s400/Clipping+Roses.jpg" /></a><br />GiGi demonstrated the proper way to clip a rose. And we were sure to thank him for asking and to remember to always ask the owner before picking any flowers.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>One a side note: I grew up next to a beautiful Catholic Church and school. In front of the church offices which also doubles as the home of the priest there were always beautiful roses and hydrangeas. And I helped myself to their flowers ALL the time. he he. :)<br /><br /><br /><div></div></div>Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-9035887814038530262011-04-15T06:57:00.000-07:002011-04-15T07:10:36.283-07:00Going for a Drive<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwx3G9mmc-ZtYz3EeVMGlEZw2wrZEfz6cY3c7Bha7eTkr433b80hyphenhyphenRDq754bg0CjHTWX8NBOJBDpKFBHntgtphs9Yl3Xr5hOn4eswjWYF9nvxqhxZlHhjtXr88ZYkfPqgGrtb0MZocQaOr/s1600/Jon+and+Meri.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595812434047849554" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwx3G9mmc-ZtYz3EeVMGlEZw2wrZEfz6cY3c7Bha7eTkr433b80hyphenhyphenRDq754bg0CjHTWX8NBOJBDpKFBHntgtphs9Yl3Xr5hOn4eswjWYF9nvxqhxZlHhjtXr88ZYkfPqgGrtb0MZocQaOr/s400/Jon+and+Meri.jpg" /></a> <br /><div>Meri just loves those boys! Here she is on a drive with her friend Jon. Jon's mom and I are good friends and we enjoyed being pregnant together. The kids are just 8 days apart.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-64036144161552254632011-04-14T22:05:00.000-07:002011-04-14T22:11:58.419-07:00Remember When?Remember when storms whether mild or severe where the perfect sleeping weather? These days, when a storm comes through <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tornado_Alley">Tornado Alley</a> this is where you will find us.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV7GRXh9QGjNqWboAuADY5SJM8StYtfHhII07Fp617pvIEiaXNz0v3jvpJ_jYqM8hQnOdzxrKItlwFLb4OQuX-DECTKViEICUX3_DQGWybra_QViGErc5S-W3NqtlyYL2I0RqvmrzhiYCy/s1600/safe+spot.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV7GRXh9QGjNqWboAuADY5SJM8StYtfHhII07Fp617pvIEiaXNz0v3jvpJ_jYqM8hQnOdzxrKItlwFLb4OQuX-DECTKViEICUX3_DQGWybra_QViGErc5S-W3NqtlyYL2I0RqvmrzhiYCy/s400/safe+spot.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595673340821490754" /></a><br />Now, it's all about keeping these two safe!Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-23753075417838113212011-04-13T13:37:00.001-07:002011-04-13T14:02:56.759-07:00Better than PlannedWhat did I have planned?<br /><br />Watch a friend's daughter while strolling around the mall for about an hour, then going home to clean and probably nap!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9cnEx54CsTRzrjUhuI3OyXbyEgZWGXuj5VGNB4zbtSbtICAnBjPLc56jkIGo0903K9JEvBkw6FakHEI7qq8HCecIvGhMWLR_3ng8LHKRAQOf6BGNZhAbwaoys94scLQ1nwdfHZA5hee6K/s1600/tanner+and+meri.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9cnEx54CsTRzrjUhuI3OyXbyEgZWGXuj5VGNB4zbtSbtICAnBjPLc56jkIGo0903K9JEvBkw6FakHEI7qq8HCecIvGhMWLR_3ng8LHKRAQOf6BGNZhAbwaoys94scLQ1nwdfHZA5hee6K/s400/tanner+and+meri.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595175071694374210" /></a><br /><br /><br />A really good friend of mine needed me to watch her son, which happens to be Little M's favorite person! She needed to get to the hospital where her sister-in-law is in Premature Labor with twin boys which are the babies she is carrying for another couple who needed a surragant! (Such a selfless thing to do for someone! What a blessing!) So I got to hang out with these two wonderful children! We played outside, played inside, sang songs and read books! They laughed and conversed non-stop! Where one would go...the other was quick to follow! My day was BETTER than PLANNED!<br />Hope you have a great Wednesday!Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-37628849694416830672011-04-05T20:13:00.000-07:002011-04-05T20:39:57.775-07:00Can and Can't<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carpal_tunnel_syndrome">Carpal Tunnel</a><br /><br />Today I saw a Musculoskeletal Doctor after a two month wait about the pain in my wrist which has been diagnosed officially as CPS (Carpal Tunnel Syndrome) <br />The first experience I had with this was during my pregnancy with Little M. I had no idea that CPS was a side effect of pregnancy, but, it was. Nothing and I mean NOTHING can be done about it while one is pregnant, all treatment options aside from wearing splints, are dangerous for baby. How I dealt with it for so long is beyond me! I've decided that I can handle pain OR depression but when coupled together it becomes more than I can or want to bare. I was really surprised that this doctor also has a depression disorder and completely understood. He also understands my need to be lucid with two children therefore limiting medications I can take. So after X-rays and some tests, we determined that CPS is what is going on and (I'm not in any hurry for surgery, although that is the only known cure) he would proceed with Cortisone Shots directly in the wrist leaving me with numb thumbs and fingers (all but the pinkie) for 4 to 6 hours. The shot wasn't bad at all, having a nurse not be able to find a vein is TEN times worse. But, I've had to pay close attention to my hands, as I DO have motor function!, I just can't feel it! So it goes like this; look at hand, have brain tell fingers what to do and watch to make sure that your fingers are indeed cooperating. But in hilarity, here are things I CAN DO, Hard to do, or just CAN'T do. <br />CAN:<br />forgo using hot pad holders when retrieving dinner from the oven (JK)<br />have relief from an annoying hang nail<br />have a contest with my son on how hard he can thump without me realizing it!<br />text using only my pinkie!<br /><br />CAN,T:<br />unbottoning my pants was out of the question, thank goodness I wore some baggie ones today<br />take off the over-the-shoulder-bolder-holder<br />cook a real meal, as the danger of burning is VERY high when your mind is easily shifted for the task at hand (pun intended) with two little ones<br />writing is NOT an option<br />Stick your hand down the disposal to retrieve sippy spout plug<br /><br />HARD TO DO:<br />Fill my poor thirsty girl's sippy cup (HURRY UP MOM)<br />getting my daughter out of the car (this is nearly impossible, but I couldn't leave her there!)!<br />Open the frozen pizza box<br />Ever tried to change a diaper when you can't feel your hands? Those pesky tabs are so darn small and temperamental!<br />remove hair clip<br /><br />I'm sure you can just imagine every other variable with numb hands! Hopefully these shots work, so if you see me around, I'll have a splint on each hand that I have to wear for a week! Because I do not want surgery, I'll take the doctors orders:)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5nRlwW-UM2ZSIUmgIQjBqcOwTYhyphenhyphenvritBL28_TV8qGkuScYIhRou1sff2G1Slc_P7wK-zHesoDcSVE7JpTgkv8W3PqrAtdMRFsaG4pycVBrszHr7rHJ8Frti8L8dMeUmAOqYMuA5FyQju/s1600/carpel+tunnel+post.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5nRlwW-UM2ZSIUmgIQjBqcOwTYhyphenhyphenvritBL28_TV8qGkuScYIhRou1sff2G1Slc_P7wK-zHesoDcSVE7JpTgkv8W3PqrAtdMRFsaG4pycVBrszHr7rHJ8Frti8L8dMeUmAOqYMuA5FyQju/s400/carpel+tunnel+post.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592309392922769714" /></a>Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-818370446022360362011-03-13T20:47:00.000-07:002011-03-13T21:08:58.169-07:00What Next?"When it rains, it pours!" "Murphey's Law" "The Straw that broke the Camel's back" Wow, is all I can say. My goal to write only about positive things, in order to view life in a more positve outlook. Here's a breakdown for the last 2 weeks.<br />-A week ago Wednesday as I was getting ready for church, I was over come with severe pain in my stomach area. I immediately started vomiting. When J got home he decided I needed to be in the hospital. Turns our I had 2 cist on my left ovary that burst!<br />-Two days later while getting my daughter ready I leaned across the bed and twisted my ankle. I heard and felt 2 LOUD cracks as I went down! I've never really broken a bone besides my toes that tend to jump out and hit furniture, so, I didn't really know what had happened. I put pressure on it, not to bad. Bending it? Out of the question. But B-man had a hair cut appointment. I sucked it up and drove him to get his hair cut. Then I went to Urgent Care with my mother. Turns out I dislocated a bone in my foot and it popped back in place causing lots of swelling and bruising. So, for over a week I've had a techno colored foot. Thankfully it just hurt the first couple of days. Now, it's fine. <br />-Then I started my monthly cycle. And month by month it is slowly getting more and more painful. I had surgery for this very reason last May. I think the adhesions are coming back. So, my doctors office had to medicate me.<br />-Present day! I'm dealing with Carpal Tunnel. It's so painful I can't get any relief. Now, the anxiety has kicked in and I'm having a lot of trouble controling it. This is terrible. But I will beat it! Tomorrow I've been directed to contact 3 different doctors! Prayers would be appreciated! We/I need answers, so I can go back to loving life. <br />My next post will be filled with everything positive. Thank you for puttering along with me! Have a great Spring Break!Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-30780930794307581612011-03-10T21:02:00.000-08:002011-03-10T21:23:17.619-08:00Leightyn's LifesongThis past Tuesday at MOPS a fellow MOPS Momma spoke to our Grand group. Missy is an awesome woman of God, mother, and wife. She has been given a message to share with other parents through her family's story "Leightyn's Lifesong". If ever a five year old girl could touch so many lives, her Leightyn has. This happy and energetic family of four was forever changed when tragedy struck August 7, 2010 and an aggressive cancer took this five year old suddenly. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFln79IihG3cc_q13aYs68zL7sTFxzDX5OhoCwHu-YRMZh6Buqoh3wkdov7OPV_16JzvDH8K9q5AjwX1IUc4zf4W1Vj2S488-B6dQJ68J9IfNBnJ-o6KIpD4rmC-iXHYrO1huZMEPAB6d9/s1600/LLMOPS4.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 193px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFln79IihG3cc_q13aYs68zL7sTFxzDX5OhoCwHu-YRMZh6Buqoh3wkdov7OPV_16JzvDH8K9q5AjwX1IUc4zf4W1Vj2S488-B6dQJ68J9IfNBnJ-o6KIpD4rmC-iXHYrO1huZMEPAB6d9/s400/LLMOPS4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5582686233040769666" /></a><br />You can read their story at http://leightynslifesong.blogspot.com<br />Missy's message is life changing. It's something we all know, but seldom take at face value. "Make time to make memories" Your dishes can wait while you play with your child. That TV show is not important! If tragedy struck, would you have any regrets? Leightyn lived a full and exciting life with her mom, dad, and little sister. She loved Jesus with all her heart. I personally never saw Leightyn without a smile on her face. <br />Read thier story. Love God. Make every moment count.Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-39730069364892639542011-03-07T18:14:00.000-08:002011-03-07T18:28:46.903-08:00The Sneaky OneEver since I have posted about my goal to stay positive, it seems like the world of Job is pressing down. I've been in the hospital with double-me-over gut wrenching pain and may or may not have broken my ankle (we'll know more when the swelling goes down) I know where it's coming from and I KNOW why!<br />I'm not seeking HIM the way I should, I'm not doing my bible study the way I should,and I'm focusing on worldly things. Just flat out! That mean ole' nasty devil is squirming his way in, just like the baby snake I found sneaking under my back door a couple of nights ago. <br /> My daily verse today is "Set your mind on things that are above, not on things that are on earth" Colossians 3:2 How completely true, I really needed to read and dwell on that today. <br /> I'm incredibly thankful for such a wonderful husband and family who have been there for me tride and true. And as I end this evening on a positive I decided to take a picture of one of my Wee-Little-One's and our snuggle time. She may be two, but I still can't seem to let her cry it out, so she and I watched The Bachelor together!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-NIhOj9SVeCzguscytjbHRJDpCbgWmra78LaJO78l-NmTyMw947NRyFyLWMEBN_iMrmzKi5yc8q1IflgtNoaB97EiYA4z5gVa0I6R-pvkTwD3-TgkabJXbcqoBSyQMCnPDcPv-uxNLZ3f/s1600/Bachelor+3-7-11.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-NIhOj9SVeCzguscytjbHRJDpCbgWmra78LaJO78l-NmTyMw947NRyFyLWMEBN_iMrmzKi5yc8q1IflgtNoaB97EiYA4z5gVa0I6R-pvkTwD3-TgkabJXbcqoBSyQMCnPDcPv-uxNLZ3f/s400/Bachelor+3-7-11.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581530164489059938" /></a>Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-86343602717088364572011-03-04T20:28:00.000-08:002011-03-04T20:59:50.365-08:00Lazy, Crazy, Lovely DayzHipocrit! Ha! I last posted about how it takes 10 positives to make up for 1 negative, and then I realized that I'm using this blog to just complain!!! I'm sure my intentions are pure but who wants to read negativity all the time? Not me! God has truely blessed my life so much that to relish and glorify Him, I need to appreciate the blessings that are right in front of me. And I'm thinking that if I want to have a record of memories, then I should probably RECORD those memories! So, I'm turning this blog around! Hope all 15 of my readers will stick with me! <br /> This past week was 'Read Across America Week'. Each day my son's class got to dress up to celebrate the author Dr. Suess. Here is a picture of Crazy Sock Day. These cute 'socks' are actually a pair of MG's leggies from her newborn days! He loved it! And he also picked out that Hot Wheels shirt and tried to wear it the entire week! Pay no attention to the sloppy house or sloppy hair. B-man is getting his hair cut on Monday and well, my house never stays clean for to long. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSuC0XdO0bGvaDY0WmN3cRah1uDPio9k2LV6hqvf9h7a7_ify8WHAmRYJXVHZ54xHouXTwTAl-N6PciCxXDXkYilpfMU3hyn3xcAG8Ly44u-VdPc0FcOsun0_kWiNMePsqg_lYKbXO0yCM/s1600/Crazy+Sock+Day3-2-11.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSuC0XdO0bGvaDY0WmN3cRah1uDPio9k2LV6hqvf9h7a7_ify8WHAmRYJXVHZ54xHouXTwTAl-N6PciCxXDXkYilpfMU3hyn3xcAG8Ly44u-VdPc0FcOsun0_kWiNMePsqg_lYKbXO0yCM/s400/Crazy+Sock+Day3-2-11.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580455344680835346" /></a><br />Have a Fantastic and Rainy Weekend!!!Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-81722765281834951522011-02-16T19:42:00.000-08:002011-02-16T19:59:11.233-08:00Long TimeIt's been a while since I have posted. Why do I only come to post when things are bothering me? Things have been going pretty well. B-man is doing great in Kindergarten. And Little M is growing so fast and beautifully! I love our life. My biggest struggle right now is being on the other side of education! I don't want to ruffle feathers in my son's school. He has a great teacher, with a lot of experience. I have learned that when it comes to other's taking care of my child, I'm not always going to be pleased with everything. On our way to church tonight my son is asking me if his teacher will go to heaven. He wants her in heaven because he loves her and wants her to be in the same place he is going. He tells me that when he gets nervous he just has to give her a hug. He really loves and respects her. Later, on our way home, he says "Mom, I just want to be able to write a story, but I'm going to be in the low reading group, not the high one, so, I won't get to write or read well". My heart just plummeted! I never would have imagined shattering a kid's self-esteem like that. B-man is a great child, he wants to please everyone and he wants to be heard. He remembers everything and takes everything to heart. He is a smart, inquisitive kid! I'm not for one second concerned about his ability to read. I wasn't a great reader but I grew up to love reading. I may read slow compared to some, but it is because I want to think and relish over every sentence of a good book. I want to remember and apply information in a Non-fiction book. B-man will learn to read, he already reads a lot to me and he knows a lot of sight words. He can blend phonemes, segment, and sound out words. I could go on and on. So, it's not his ability I'm concerned with. I want build him up and I NEED to talk to his teacher. But I don't want to ruffle feathers and make his life miserable for the rest of his time at this school.Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-70850800158855639602010-12-07T22:17:00.000-08:002010-12-07T22:52:45.709-08:00Full CircleSince becoming a Mom in 2005 and again in 2009 I feel like my experiences have brought me full circle. Life has given me a lot. At the time of my son's birth, well, I felt like life was over, I felt like I wasn't going to survive if I lost him. Now, I realize how fortunate we really were, how much worse it could have been. My heart has become tender for other moms who have struggled or lost. Especially this time of year.<br />Most recently,as I watched my son throw a huge tantrum. I stood back and just thought of how crazy he was acting. He's frustrated as he tries to grow into an individual. Five and half years ago, I thought the hospital was going to forever be our life. I now have a great appreciation of this stage in his life. And I say a prayer of thanks. Now, I have a respect for other moms that I didn't have before. Just like each child is precious and unique, so are each parent's style of parenting. I am just finding myself really really grateful. I've been given a heart for other parents. Being content when very little money is in the bank. <br />I find myself loving more and hating less. I will never regret this time with my children. My car is beat up, my clothes are old and some nights I feel really overwhelmed. But I'm learning everyday to appreciate it all.Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-45096201463509440662010-11-01T18:08:00.001-07:002010-11-01T18:12:50.513-07:00Kelly's Korner!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh838l8YaJbI6cKT8lW5BBGFvlaScVX1GW1-6q7VhgEB8Tr1rRjGsXgZRMP1kg_lL2Fv-F_YKVvdZ-jTso4I705RXyM4SiVSyvGObWon32eJdyFae67zzT1riY9XVapPwcgr1hIPM1fuzkk/s1600/Kellys+Korner.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh838l8YaJbI6cKT8lW5BBGFvlaScVX1GW1-6q7VhgEB8Tr1rRjGsXgZRMP1kg_lL2Fv-F_YKVvdZ-jTso4I705RXyM4SiVSyvGObWon32eJdyFae67zzT1riY9XVapPwcgr1hIPM1fuzkk/s400/Kellys+Korner.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5534753311943624578" /></a><br /><br />I love MOPS! And we were so blessed to have Kelly Stamps come and speak! She is so genuine and inspirational! I absolutely loved meeting her. And Little M got to play with her Harper! They got a long great. I'm so proud to be apart of such a wonderful group.Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-26619969131877160882010-11-01T17:26:00.000-07:002010-11-01T17:59:50.018-07:00UpdateER visit, walk-in visit, paralyzing. That describes my past couple of days. I want to be positive, so, I'll say it could be worse. I'd been doing really well with my anxiety/depression, no major breakdowns. Then, all of the sudden, after a major blessing (where's the trigger)things started to crash.<br />Friday: <br />I had B-man's parent-teacher conference. <br />I spent sometime with the kids playing outside at a friend's house. <br />I got called for an interview this coming Tuesday.<br />Got to go shopping for B-man's Halloween Costume.<br />That night things started going down hill. I was all of the sudden rigid, couldn't loosen up, lost motor control in my right foot and right hand. I was walking like I was in pain. But I wasn't. I was just very uncomfortable.<br />Saturday:<br />I had a break-down from trying to hold it together for so long. I couldn't figure out if I was having anxiety because of the symptoms or symptoms because of the anxiety. I went to a walk-in and the doctor there informed me I should be at the hospital, but she gave me some medicine and sent me on my way. <br />The medicine did nothing except make my mouth water.<br />Sunday:<br />I went to church, listened to several of my friends ask what was wrong even though I was really trying to hide it. But felt better after some great worship and a wonderful sermon. I even got my kids dressed for Halloween and took them with my husband to the festival. Also went trick or treating. Slept okay that night thanks to melatonin.<br />Monday:<br />I called my psychologist for a referral to a psychiatrist. I got into the clinic today and my awesome husband took off to go with me. Well, once I got there the clinician quickly said I needed to be in the ER. So, off to the ER with the clinician. The doctor there said it looked like I was having a side effect of something. They gave me a shot to loosen my muscles without having a side effect, so, I was able to drive myself home. I feel a little better, not totally like I would like though. He also gave me a prescription of a medicine to eliminate my body of the toxins that may be causing this. And now I am supposed to make a follow up with a NeuroPsychiatrist. Here is where I am. Here is where I'll be. At the same time my Lord and Savior can heal this or use it to His Glory. So, to Jesus be the Glory. I pray for miraculous healing so that I can be the mom, wife, and woman of God I'm meant to be. I really love our Lord and I'll forever trust in Him.<br /><br />PS. A positive post coming. I got to meet Kelly Stamps for Kellyskornerblog! Such a blessing.Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-91972819461619907902010-10-04T18:04:00.000-07:002010-10-04T18:12:08.313-07:00GratefulToday was a really tough day.<br />I have days when I can't imagine feeling that way again.<br />Then there are days when I can't imagine happiness again.<br />Today is one of those days.<br />I'm longing for the good; positive it will return.<br />For now...I cling to my daughter and hug my son and laugh with my husband<br />They are the reason I won't give up.<br />I'm gratefulRaina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-22904998617644362672010-09-26T09:58:00.000-07:002010-09-26T10:09:25.723-07:00SicknessI've been really bad about not posting pictures lately. I seem to always forget my camera. <br />Right now, as I type, there is a sick little boy trying to sleep on the couch, with a bowl close by his side. On our way home Friday night my son said from the back seat "I think I'm going to be sick" (I knew he wasn't joking) I looked at my husband and he just shook his head. I turned to my son and said "Do you think you can wait til we get home?" and his response was "Yes, mommy, I'll wait" (in such a sweet innocent voice I might add) Not FIVE seconds later he said "We need to pull over", in the most sickly voice he could muster to convey the urgency of the moment! We pulled over fast, but not fast enough (my husband was driving). He threw up everywhere, but was fine after that. He slept through the night and woke up happy. But after having a small sip of water he lost it again and again and again. No church for us on Sunday because he wouldn't have been 24 hours puke free. Now I know why they have that rule! Right at the 24 hour mark he started throwing up again!<br />I don't know how much you know about depression/anxiety but someone that has a mind like mine, full of what-if's and this could... Well, I'm a little on edge. Not having an attack so far but my mind is racing. So, I think I'll go do some more Beth Moore Bible Study and see if that can calm me down.Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-12184831096266700412010-09-21T18:22:00.000-07:002010-09-21T18:35:19.947-07:00Had Another Good DayI'm beginning to take my days as they come and not 'worry' about what is to come. Bills may not get paid (they do, eventually) but I can't worry about that. I have to get sane again. I may be living at my in-laws or my Grandma's when all is said and done, but hey, I'll have my family. J is awesome, loving, supportive, and completely busy all the time. A fishing extravaganza is coming soon for him and I'm so thrilled that he will get sometime to himself. He truly deserves it. <br />Today was a good day. I forgot to take my prozac this morning and was able to take a nap for a bit today. I haven't slept in weeks!!!! I've been shaky, so shaky, and I feel like I've got pop rocks jumping around in me. At any moment I'm going to take off on a marathon. But then that would reap havoc on my figure (think about.... now laugh with me. Ha Ha) So, now I'm wondering if prozac is the best for me. The last time I tried stopping it I had several meltdowns.<br />I think today was great because it started with a trip to Hobby Lobby, I love looking in there, even if I can't buy anything. Then had a play date at a local neighborhood park with Mops Moms and their kiddos. After I picked up B-man and got the great news that he had all Happy Faces. What are Happy Faces? That is how B-man's school rates behavior in each section of his day Classroom Behavior, Lunchroom Behavior, Recess Behavior, and Nap time Behavior. So we headed to Learning Oasis (had a gift certificate) then we got ice cream because B-man was also able to finish all his work without missing more than two. He missed one because he colored his "PURPLE" page RED! I think that was just a boy thing. <br />Hope you had a great day as well!Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-52613191322754189712010-09-19T18:15:00.000-07:002010-09-19T18:20:52.540-07:00Not Me Monday...A little earlyI've been trying to spend more and more time with my children as individuals. So, after playing football with my son, he wanted to play "WEEEE"! While swinging him back from the couch I noticed the tied knot of his Khaki shorts. "Hmmm? That looks like Little M's capri pants!" So YES or NOT ME! I handed B-man his shorts this afternoon before going to the Grandparents Home (My kids have the best BEST grandparents and great grandparent) I handed my son a pair of 18 month capri pants of this sister's. And they FIT!!!! Barely snug on him and a little big on her! Oh my heavens. SO glad I didn't send him to school like that or church even!Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-64172945110291189492010-09-19T02:21:00.000-07:002010-09-19T02:23:31.227-07:004 amNo one should ever have to see this time of night/morning! I'm awake and obviously can't sleep. So much fun. I'm cuddling with my 5 year old tonight and I can't believe how much room a 32 lb boy can take up. Well, I better get back to bed. I need to at least attempt to sleep and the 5 year old knows when I'm awake.Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-42915391163413503322010-09-17T21:40:00.000-07:002010-09-17T21:51:50.159-07:00What I don't want my kids to know.I don't want my kids to know that I don't know how we are going to pay the house payment. I don't want them to know that we can't make some bills because their mother has to see a crazy doctor and take crazy medication. It's expensive being this crazy. I'm on 90mg of anti-depressant a day. All in an effort to cope with normal daily activity. J and I have a pact not to talk about finances around our children. We don't want them to know we are struggling. I want their lives to be uncomplicated. I want them to know how much they are loved and I want their bellies to be full. I should be in a puddle on the floor. A hyper-ventilating mess. But instead I'm typing this because well, with 90mg of anti-depressant... I have no emotion left. I feel lost and scared but I can't show it outwardly. I am thankful for the struggle because that means I have a life filled with blessings. I don't want my kids to ever know this struggle. I don't want them to know what it is like to spend over two hundred a month for a psychologist. We don't spend frivolously. We don't have cable, I don't go on expensive play dates, I don't eat out at all. The last McDonald's I had was when I was with my Grandma and she paid. My freezer is filled with .88 Banquet meals. And I have no idea how we can make a house payment. How we can keep the electricity on and how I will put gas in the car. I know we will survive. But I don't know how it will happen. I know God is in control and He loves us and knows our struggles. He tells us not to be anxious and not to worry where the next meal will come from. He also knows that we aren't in this situation because we blew money we didn't have. We haven't blown money at all. It's just expensive being crazy.Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3458184887550213961.post-53990360170148443002010-09-13T18:57:00.000-07:002010-09-13T19:19:40.368-07:00Advice Costs LessWorth Much More<br />This article I found hanging on my dad and step-mom's refridgerator! My step-mom has a way of always finding great things, be it; books, movies, clothes, funiture!<br />I can only take credit for enjoying this article and paraphrasing, it was written by Sharon Randall in the Southwest Times Record.<br /><br />"Tips for How to Stay Married"<br />1. Listen to each other. Seek first to understand before trying to be understood. When you are wrong, say you are sorry. When you are right... SHUT UP!<br />2. Don't tie a half-hitch knot. Plan to stay married forever.<br />3. Never go to sleep angry. Keep talking until you get over it or forget why you were mad.<br />4. Laugh together. If you can laugh at yourself, it'll be easy.<br />5. Never embarrass, criticize or correct on another in public; try not to do it in private, either.<br />6. Don't expect perfection. It doesn't exist. If it did, it would bore you spitless. <br />7. Remember one of life's ironies: We are least lovable when we need love most.<br />8. On days when you don't like each other, try to remember that you love each other. Pray for the 'good' days to come again, then act as if they already have.<br />9. Tell the truth, only the truth, and always with great kindness.<br />10. Kiss for at least ten seconds everyday without fail; do it all at once or spread it out.<br />11. Examine your relationship often. Know it's vulnerabilities. Keep it moving in the direction you both want to go.<br />12. Be content with what you have materially, honest about where you are emotionally and never stop growing spiritually.<br />13. To love someone is to wish them the best; always wish each other nothing but the very best.<br />14. Never yell unless the house is on fire. Speak softly when you argue. Whisper when you fight. Keep it fair and show some class. Hurtful words can be forgiven, but they can never be taken back.<br />15. Be best friends, as well as lovers. In a blackout, share the flashlight. Then turn it off and make your own electricity.<br />16. Show by your actions as well as your words that the person you married comes first in your life. Let nothing and no one come between you.<br />17. Remember that your in love. Kiss in elevators. Hold hands in movies. Lock eyes in a crowded room. Say "your beautiful, and I love you." Then say it again.<br />18. Never miss a birthday or anniversary or a moment to make a memory. Memories may not seem important now, but one day you will treasure them.<br />19. Take care of business. Pay your bills. Mow the grass. And call your mother.<br />20. Open your home and your hearts to angels unaware. Teach Sunday School. Coach Little League. Feed the homeless. Talk to strangers. Make something beautiful of your life together.Raina's Retreathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05637351634944366915noreply@blogger.com0