Saturday late morning, Kaitlynn and I had a dance party for Dave. That afternoon we gave Dave his Father's Day gifts. We gave him his gifts early because they gave me my Mother's Day gift early. I don't think I ever mentioned what they gave me. They bought me a beautiful NLT Bible. It's what I asked for and I love it! We gave Dave a t-shirt and a book. A guy I met in my Bible study suggested this book for him.
We decided to brave the heat and go to Grant's Farm. On the way there, Kaitlynn was being silly in the car. She asked me to flap my ears with her! Then we had to stop to get cash and when Dave came back to the car she asked, "Daddy did you get money for the goats?"
We were able to get right on the tram when we got there - no line at all. There was a really nice breeze while on the tram. A lot of the animals were out and right up near the tram. Kaitlynn thought it was the coolest! She sat in her stroller to feed the goats. They were really hungry.
Then she rode on the carousel - 2 rides for the price of 1! Kaitlynn had fun running through the mister. She even had Dave and me running through it with her. It sure felt good on such a hot day! Kaitlynn enjoyed a Tiger's Blood snow cone while Dave and I enjoyed a few Bud Light Limes! Also good on a hot day! Kaitlynn threw a few pennies in the wishing well and then decided to save the rest. We went into the stables. Kaitlynn wanted to pet Miss Budweiser, so I told her to call for her. She started yelling, "Budweiser!" Everyone that passed us got a real kick out of that. Kaitlynn and Dave fed the camels and then we headed out.
We went to MawMaw's and took Dave to Outback Steakhouse for Father's Day dinner. They had this promotion where you get a scratch off if you are a dad. You can win any thing from $5 off to $599.99 off (a year of Outback free). Dave won a $25 gift card good towards our next visit! Not too shabby!
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Nicknames
One morning last week, Kaitlynn wanted Cheerios for breakfast and was calling them Tummy Yummies all morning. Then she found a bag of candy (in my bedroom) and was walking around with it saying "Trick or treat?" She talks about Halloween frequently and talks about having "MawMaw, Neece and Brandon over. And Hanna and Adam." She also talks about Christmas and says she wants the Christmas tree up and reminds me that Santa brings her presents. Instead of Christmas, she says "Chrisum" or something similar to that. It's cute!
Later, she decided it was a good idea to get on my shoulders (while I was sitting down) and say, "Giddy up horsey!" She thought that was great.
We ended up going outside. It was so disgustingly hot out there. It was so hard getting her to come back inside. I finally convinced her to come in for lunch. Right after lunch, she was ready to head back outside with the dogs. Dave came home and started mowing the lawn. Kaitlynn stayed outside with him. She came back in sweaty and with red cheeks and said, "It's hot, hot, hot out there!" She was darn right! It was hot, hot, hot out there! Blazing hot!
Before bed, Kaitlynn asked if I would read her a book. I told her yes and then she started calling me "pal." She likes coming up with nicknames for people. She calls Dave "Big Guy" which I think she got from Clifford (also where she got Tummy Yummies from). It is so darn cute to hear her call him that. He has in turn started calling her "Special K" when she calls him "Big Guy." She calls Uncle Jeff "Monkey." I'm not sure why except that he plays ball and runs around with her. She calls Adam her boyfriend. OK, so maybe that's not exactly a nickname.
Later, she decided it was a good idea to get on my shoulders (while I was sitting down) and say, "Giddy up horsey!" She thought that was great.
We ended up going outside. It was so disgustingly hot out there. It was so hard getting her to come back inside. I finally convinced her to come in for lunch. Right after lunch, she was ready to head back outside with the dogs. Dave came home and started mowing the lawn. Kaitlynn stayed outside with him. She came back in sweaty and with red cheeks and said, "It's hot, hot, hot out there!" She was darn right! It was hot, hot, hot out there! Blazing hot!
Before bed, Kaitlynn asked if I would read her a book. I told her yes and then she started calling me "pal." She likes coming up with nicknames for people. She calls Dave "Big Guy" which I think she got from Clifford (also where she got Tummy Yummies from). It is so darn cute to hear her call him that. He has in turn started calling her "Special K" when she calls him "Big Guy." She calls Uncle Jeff "Monkey." I'm not sure why except that he plays ball and runs around with her. She calls Adam her boyfriend. OK, so maybe that's not exactly a nickname.
Dating Anniversary
Last Wednesday was Dave and my 8 year dating anniversary. 8 years ago, we went on our first date on Father's Day (so obviously it was a Sunday). We went to the Shakespeare Festival. A Midsummer Night’s Dream was the play showing that year. We have gone to every production since with the exception of 1 (because we were in Florida). We both remember that night so well. We were so unprepared -no blanket, chairs or food and beverages. The people behind us had tiki torches and a bucket of KFC. At one point we were afraid one of their tiki torches was going to set Dave on fire. We almost left during intermission because we thought the play was over. We even remember the conversation we were having as we were walking from the car to the play - it was about chunky chicken (don't ask!).
As the years have gone by, we've gotten pretty good at being prepared for the Shakespeare production. This year's production was Hamlet. It was awesome! Our dinner consisted of Subway sandwiches and Riesling. What a combo, huh? It was such a beautiful evening. We couldn't have picked a better night to go. Quotes from the production: "To thine own self to be," "Brevity is the soul of wit," "To be or not to be. That is the question, " and "Get thee to a nunnery." What great quotes.
Kaitlynn stayed at MawMaw's. We also took Pumpkin and Jasmine (the cats) to MawMaw's because they are going to live at her house. So, we are cat-free now! Kaitlynn and MawMaw had a treasure hunt around the house, played outside, played with dolls and gave her doll a bath after making dinner. Kaitlynn was bathed and sleeping when we came to pick her up. We probably should have just left her there, but she did well transitioning to the car and then to her bed. She stayed asleep the entire time.
As the years have gone by, we've gotten pretty good at being prepared for the Shakespeare production. This year's production was Hamlet. It was awesome! Our dinner consisted of Subway sandwiches and Riesling. What a combo, huh? It was such a beautiful evening. We couldn't have picked a better night to go. Quotes from the production: "To thine own self to be," "Brevity is the soul of wit," "To be or not to be. That is the question, " and "Get thee to a nunnery." What great quotes.Kaitlynn stayed at MawMaw's. We also took Pumpkin and Jasmine (the cats) to MawMaw's because they are going to live at her house. So, we are cat-free now! Kaitlynn and MawMaw had a treasure hunt around the house, played outside, played with dolls and gave her doll a bath after making dinner. Kaitlynn was bathed and sleeping when we came to pick her up. We probably should have just left her there, but she did well transitioning to the car and then to her bed. She stayed asleep the entire time.
Making Friends
Last Tuesday morning and afternoon it was storming. Kaitlynn said she wanted us to take umbrellas to the Zoo & run through the rain. Yeah, that didn't happen. Instead we went to get blood work done. She held my hand and was excited when the phlebotomist showed her the tube of my blood.
We visited MawMaw. Kaitlynn said she wanted Applebee's for dinner and then only ate a few bites. I guess I should be happy that she at least ate something! Kaitlynn had fun running around the mall, playing on the rides and at the play area. While at the play area, she was quite the chatterbox & socialite! She "made" friends with all the kids at the play area and even talked to a few parents. She was really talking to this boy and girl's dad, which was surprising because she normally does not talk to men. Then she really took to this lady that had a baby a little younger than a year. Kaitlynn followed her and the baby around the play area and just talked about different things. Before the lady left, she hugged Kaitlynn and told her how sweet she was. It was really cute!
Kaitlynn ended the evening playing with this little guy named Allam. He turned 3 in the fall. They were running all over the mall together, just having a great time. I love how she makes friends so easily.
We visited MawMaw. Kaitlynn said she wanted Applebee's for dinner and then only ate a few bites. I guess I should be happy that she at least ate something! Kaitlynn had fun running around the mall, playing on the rides and at the play area. While at the play area, she was quite the chatterbox & socialite! She "made" friends with all the kids at the play area and even talked to a few parents. She was really talking to this boy and girl's dad, which was surprising because she normally does not talk to men. Then she really took to this lady that had a baby a little younger than a year. Kaitlynn followed her and the baby around the play area and just talked about different things. Before the lady left, she hugged Kaitlynn and told her how sweet she was. It was really cute!
Kaitlynn ended the evening playing with this little guy named Allam. He turned 3 in the fall. They were running all over the mall together, just having a great time. I love how she makes friends so easily.
Organization
Kaitlynn and I went to church for MM. Unfortunately, Kaitlynn was the only child there, but she enjoyed helping us.
When we got home, I was determined to get the living room looking better - basically Kaitlynn's toys more organized and put up. Kaitlynn helped me vacuum. While I was vacuuming the living room (along with the couch and couch cushions), she vacuumed the hall and main bathroom. Then we moved on to the dining room and kitchen. Unfortunately, that's when both of the vacuum cleaners pooped out on us. So now we are in the market for a new vacuum cleaner. We have terrible luck with them. They are constantly breaking and we are constantly replacing them. I cleaned and organized Kaitlynn's room. I bagged so many toys / stuffed animals to put in storage and organized all her toy bins, totes, and toy box. It looks better, although it is still crammed with toys. Her room is really small. Next, I took on the kitchen - mainly the area where Kaitlynn's toys are. She has a table and chairs set, play kitchen, dishes and food for her kitchen, dress up stuff, pretend cash registers and 2 noodle tubs. I moved everything off of her table and organized them in containers underneath the table. It looks better (at least for now). Finally, I tackled Kaitlynn's shoes. She has a shoe organizer for under her bed, but somehow her shoes don't seem to find their way back there. As I was going through her shoes, she was missing mates to 2 pairs of flip flops. Luckily, I found the mate to 1 of the flip flops.
Kaitlynn had swim class. Dave and Kaitlynn played in the shallow part of the pool before class started and then Kaitlynn got right in when it was time for her class to start. I was so proud of her during swim class. I think she has conquered her "fear" of the pool. She is so brave! They sang songs, splashed with their hands and the teacher worked on having the parents hold the kids while they kicked their legs in the water. Kaitlynn started moving her arms, too! She is a natural, a fish! She put her face in the water a few times and was OK with that. With 5 minutes left in class, they went over to the shallow part and let the kids "dive" for rings. Kaitlynn had fun throwing the rings in the water and going after them. At one point, she fell in and went under the water, but was brave enough to get back in the water and continue playing. After class, Dave and Kaitlynn continued playing in the water - the shallow and deep parts. She is so much more confident. She is just so stinking cute walking around in the shallow part of the pool!
On the way home from swim class, Kaitlynn informed us (again) that she needs a TV for her bedroom (actually she said TVs)! I don't know how comfortable I am with that at all. We have a TV in our bedroom and I know we really shouldn't. I don't want her to think she has to have the TV on to go to sleep. It's such a bad habit to start. I know we are not setting a great example, but it's hard to break bad habits.
After Kaitlynn went to bed, Dave and I watched "The Lovely Bones." It was a good movie, however, I did not agree with the girl's "heaven." I do not believe that when we die and go to Heaven, we will still be tormented by something that happened to us here on earth. There will be no looking back or wanting revenge. There will be no tears, longing or sadness. To me it was like the girl went to hell. How horrible to be dead and keep reliving your death or waiting for revenge! I felt is was a twisted view of "heaven", but thought the acting and the rest of the movie was decent.
When we got home, I was determined to get the living room looking better - basically Kaitlynn's toys more organized and put up. Kaitlynn helped me vacuum. While I was vacuuming the living room (along with the couch and couch cushions), she vacuumed the hall and main bathroom. Then we moved on to the dining room and kitchen. Unfortunately, that's when both of the vacuum cleaners pooped out on us. So now we are in the market for a new vacuum cleaner. We have terrible luck with them. They are constantly breaking and we are constantly replacing them. I cleaned and organized Kaitlynn's room. I bagged so many toys / stuffed animals to put in storage and organized all her toy bins, totes, and toy box. It looks better, although it is still crammed with toys. Her room is really small. Next, I took on the kitchen - mainly the area where Kaitlynn's toys are. She has a table and chairs set, play kitchen, dishes and food for her kitchen, dress up stuff, pretend cash registers and 2 noodle tubs. I moved everything off of her table and organized them in containers underneath the table. It looks better (at least for now). Finally, I tackled Kaitlynn's shoes. She has a shoe organizer for under her bed, but somehow her shoes don't seem to find their way back there. As I was going through her shoes, she was missing mates to 2 pairs of flip flops. Luckily, I found the mate to 1 of the flip flops.
Kaitlynn had swim class. Dave and Kaitlynn played in the shallow part of the pool before class started and then Kaitlynn got right in when it was time for her class to start. I was so proud of her during swim class. I think she has conquered her "fear" of the pool. She is so brave! They sang songs, splashed with their hands and the teacher worked on having the parents hold the kids while they kicked their legs in the water. Kaitlynn started moving her arms, too! She is a natural, a fish! She put her face in the water a few times and was OK with that. With 5 minutes left in class, they went over to the shallow part and let the kids "dive" for rings. Kaitlynn had fun throwing the rings in the water and going after them. At one point, she fell in and went under the water, but was brave enough to get back in the water and continue playing. After class, Dave and Kaitlynn continued playing in the water - the shallow and deep parts. She is so much more confident. She is just so stinking cute walking around in the shallow part of the pool!
On the way home from swim class, Kaitlynn informed us (again) that she needs a TV for her bedroom (actually she said TVs)! I don't know how comfortable I am with that at all. We have a TV in our bedroom and I know we really shouldn't. I don't want her to think she has to have the TV on to go to sleep. It's such a bad habit to start. I know we are not setting a great example, but it's hard to break bad habits.
After Kaitlynn went to bed, Dave and I watched "The Lovely Bones." It was a good movie, however, I did not agree with the girl's "heaven." I do not believe that when we die and go to Heaven, we will still be tormented by something that happened to us here on earth. There will be no looking back or wanting revenge. There will be no tears, longing or sadness. To me it was like the girl went to hell. How horrible to be dead and keep reliving your death or waiting for revenge! I felt is was a twisted view of "heaven", but thought the acting and the rest of the movie was decent.
Catching Lightning Bugs
One night before bed, Dave called Kaitlynn a lady. She said, "I'm not a lady. I'm jingle bells. I'm not jingle bells, I'm a princess!" We busted up laughing. We think she meant Tinker Bell, instead of jingle bells.
Today we had a lazy day. We went out to dinner and to Target with MawMaw. Then we went back to MawMaw's house. Kaitlynn had fun catching lightning bugs with Uncle Jeff. While they were running around, she fell and said one of the bugs tripped her! Girl is silly!
Hanna and Adam delivered Kaitlynn's climbing cube to our house. Kaitlynn had fun playing in it for a few minutes before bed.
Today we had a lazy day. We went out to dinner and to Target with MawMaw. Then we went back to MawMaw's house. Kaitlynn had fun catching lightning bugs with Uncle Jeff. While they were running around, she fell and said one of the bugs tripped her! Girl is silly!Hanna and Adam delivered Kaitlynn's climbing cube to our house. Kaitlynn had fun playing in it for a few minutes before bed.
Ella's Birthday Party
We attended Kaitlynn's friend, Ella's 3rd birthday party. The party was in her backyard. It had a Wiggles theme and was a backyard pool party. It was a lot of fun, but super sweaty hot out. It was so hot, at times we were hoping it rained just to cool us off. The kids were all fine because they had the water to play in. The party had face painting, music, games, sprinkler pool, wagon, slide, play house and an appearance by The Wiggles (actually teenage boys dressed as The Wiggles).
Kaitlynn fell asleep in the car. She slept until it was time to get ready for church. We attended service and Kaitlynn attended her class. When I came in to pick her up, she was sitting on the floor with one of the teenagers that helps out and 2 other boys. The teenager was reading them a story. Kaitlynn found her picture that she made and was ready for some hot chocolate.
This week's lesson: Jesus was a friend to the blind men. The kids brought home this really cool Lil' K Map Book that discussed the Bible story and being a friend. I hope they get these for all their lessons. Bible verse for the week: "A friend loves at all times." Proverbs 17:17
Kaitlynn fell asleep in the car. She slept until it was time to get ready for church. We attended service and Kaitlynn attended her class. When I came in to pick her up, she was sitting on the floor with one of the teenagers that helps out and 2 other boys. The teenager was reading them a story. Kaitlynn found her picture that she made and was ready for some hot chocolate.
This week's lesson: Jesus was a friend to the blind men. The kids brought home this really cool Lil' K Map Book that discussed the Bible story and being a friend. I hope they get these for all their lessons. Bible verse for the week: "A friend loves at all times." Proverbs 17:17
Charles Glenn
Dave, Kaitlynn, MawMaw and I went to the Zoo for Jungle Boogie. We met Hanna and Brandon there. We ran into some friends. The band playing was Charles Glenn. Instead of the big stage, they were playing by the lake under a roof because it was sprinkling a bit when the concert first started. Thankfully the rain stayed away. We ate dinner and listened to music. Dave, Kaitlynn, Brandon and Hanna went to Caribbean Cove to pet the stingrays and horseshoe crabs. Then we went to see the Big Cats, prairie dogs and sun bear. Kaitlynn and Brandon played by Lakeside Cafe. Kaitlynn and Brandon suckered Hanna into buying them stuffed animals from Build-A-Bear. Kaitlynn got a small penguin.
We had a great night, but look forward to the band being on the larger stage in the regular area.
We had a great night, but look forward to the band being on the larger stage in the regular area.
Post-Op Visit
Kaitlynn had a follow-up / post-op appointment with her pediatric dentist. He asked how she was doing and checked her teeth, mainly the cavity sites. He said her teeth looked good and that she was brushing and flossing good. I asked him how we can keep her teeth healthy if the cavities were due to genetics. He said to brush, floss and keep her away from fruit snacks. Of course limit juice and candy, too. I sure hope we never have to go through another procedure like we did last month (with getting her cavities fixed). Kaitlynn did great at the dentist, sitting in the chair and letting him look at her teeth. She got 2 stickers and a pencil. They were out of toys (and waiting for them to come in).
When we got home, a package was waiting for us on the porch. I opened it and was happily surprised that it was Laura Bush's new book "Spoken from the Heart." I ordered it, but wasn't supposed to get it until the end of the month. Then we opened the mail and Kaitlynn got a book, too. At her last pediatrician's visit, she loved the book "Piggy Visits the Doctor." I ordered it for her. She was so happy that it was hers to keep. We read it over and over. Then daddy had to read it over and over. Kaitlynn knows the book pretty well. I love when she reads it to us. She does a pretty good job reading it (just from memory and in her own words).
I won a copy of Sarah McLachlan's new CD, "Laws of Illusion." I had to be the first to comment with my favorite Sarah McLachlan song. I responded "I Will Remember You" and won! I can't wait to get it.
We went looking for a few swimsuits for Kaitlynn since she only has one. We figure she should have a couple since she is taking swim lessons and we are most likely going to get a subdivision pool pass. We bought 1 swimsuit and ended up buying several dresses. My girl loves dresses!
When we got home, a package was waiting for us on the porch. I opened it and was happily surprised that it was Laura Bush's new book "Spoken from the Heart." I ordered it, but wasn't supposed to get it until the end of the month. Then we opened the mail and Kaitlynn got a book, too. At her last pediatrician's visit, she loved the book "Piggy Visits the Doctor." I ordered it for her. She was so happy that it was hers to keep. We read it over and over. Then daddy had to read it over and over. Kaitlynn knows the book pretty well. I love when she reads it to us. She does a pretty good job reading it (just from memory and in her own words).
I won a copy of Sarah McLachlan's new CD, "Laws of Illusion." I had to be the first to comment with my favorite Sarah McLachlan song. I responded "I Will Remember You" and won! I can't wait to get it.
We went looking for a few swimsuits for Kaitlynn since she only has one. We figure she should have a couple since she is taking swim lessons and we are most likely going to get a subdivision pool pass. We bought 1 swimsuit and ended up buying several dresses. My girl loves dresses!
New Play Area
A few weeks ago Dave, Kaitlynn, MawMaw and I went to South County Mall to check out their new play area. First, Kaitlynn had to take a ride on the ice cream truck. These rides aren't near the play area, but we had to pass them because of where we parked. I think she is getting out of the phase where it is fun to just sit on the rides. She now wants us to put money in the them! And she will stay on them!
Kaitlynn had fun at the new play area and didn't want to leave because she said she met some new friends.
Kaitlynn stayed at MawMaw's for the rest of the afternoon and evening. Dave and I attended a dinner at church. We had a great dinner. God is doing some awesome things there!
Dave went to pick up Kaitlynn from MawMaw's. MawMaw showed Kaitlynn the gift she bought for Annabelle. Kaitlynn said she needed to open it for Annabelle. MawMaw told her that if she opened it, she would have to keep it. Kaitlynn asked if she would be mad at her and MawMaw said no (of course). Then she asked if I would be mad at her. MawMaw told her no. So now she has a new baby doll. She loves this doll. It came with a pacifier, cup, bottle and a bear. The doll's hands are magnetic so it can hold the bottle, cup and bear.
Kaitlynn had fun at the new play area and didn't want to leave because she said she met some new friends.
Kaitlynn stayed at MawMaw's for the rest of the afternoon and evening. Dave and I attended a dinner at church. We had a great dinner. God is doing some awesome things there!
Dave went to pick up Kaitlynn from MawMaw's. MawMaw showed Kaitlynn the gift she bought for Annabelle. Kaitlynn said she needed to open it for Annabelle. MawMaw told her that if she opened it, she would have to keep it. Kaitlynn asked if she would be mad at her and MawMaw said no (of course). Then she asked if I would be mad at her. MawMaw told her no. So now she has a new baby doll. She loves this doll. It came with a pacifier, cup, bottle and a bear. The doll's hands are magnetic so it can hold the bottle, cup and bear.
First Swim Lesson
Kaitlynn started her first swim class a few weeks ago. It's a parent - child class. Kaitlynn, Dave, MawMaw and I went extremely excited and a little nervous. We have been wanting to put Kaitlynn in swim lessons for a while, but just never got around to signing her up. Kaitlynn doesn't really like swimming pools. By the end of the class, we couldn't get her out of the pool! Success!!!!
Annabelle's 4th Birthday
June 6th Kaitlynn, Dave and I attended Annabelle's 4th birthday party. The party was held at a park in South County. The theme was the Wonder Pets. We ate lunch almost immediately after everyone arrived. Then it was time for the cake (which my cousin made), presents, and the pinata. After getting the birthday party business out of the way, the kids were free to go to the playground. Kaitlynn had a fun time playing with Annabelle and her friends. Dave and I had a fun time watching them, chatting and holding baby Alayna (Annabelle's little sister). We hung around after everyone left to chat with Mike and Cynthia while Kaitlynn and Annabelle played. We also helped them clean up and load things in their cars.
Later, Kaitlynn played with the neighbor girls. Dave and I talked to Kris and her husband while the girls played. We are thinking of getting a membership to the subdivision pool this year. That way Kaitlynn could play with the girls, Dave and I could hang out with the neighbors.
Later, Kaitlynn played with the neighbor girls. Dave and I talked to Kris and her husband while the girls played. We are thinking of getting a membership to the subdivision pool this year. That way Kaitlynn could play with the girls, Dave and I could hang out with the neighbors.
Picnic, Church and GNO
June 5th Dave, Kaitlynn and I attended a Retirement Center Picnic. This picnic had a petting zoo, pony rides, games, train ride, face painting, balloon animals and lunch.
Kaitlynn had a couple of pony rides. She loved petting the baby geese. The lady even let Kaitlynn go in the cage to play with the geese. She also pet the sheep, donkey, alpaca, rabbit, hen, calf and other pony. We rode the train (that went up and down the street). She played some games: duck pond, bowling and bean bag toss and won some prizes (sunglasses, bubbles, keychain, candy, etc). We ate lunch. Kaitlynn got her face painted (a butterfly on her cheek), but when the clown put glitter on it, it got in her eyes and she freaked out. She ended up wiping it off. It was a really hot and sticky day, so I am sure the sweat and glitter didn't feel good in her eyes!
We went to church that late afternoon / early evening. Kaitlynn said she didn't want to go, but as soon as we got there, she was ready for class. She was just tired from the picnic. When I came to get Kaitlynn after class, she was sitting at a table coloring with some other kids and one of the teachers. I think she must like hanging around the teachers, which I think is fine. She immediately told me their Bible story: Jonah got ate by a big fish and then was spit out. The memory verse for the week: "Children obey your parents" Colossians 3:20. They played in a pool / whale ball pit (among other things). She had her usual cup of hot (warm) chocolate and we had to get going.
I went to an Easy & Elegant Dinner Party at my friend Heather's. It was Heather's birthday, but she was hosting a House Party with Calphalon & Williams-Sonoma. It was a small group of us: Amanda, Ashley, Pam, Kit, and Colleen. We had so much fun chatting, drinking, eating and getting a tour of Heather's house (that her husband built). I can't wait to get together with these ladies again some time soon.
Kaitlynn had a couple of pony rides. She loved petting the baby geese. The lady even let Kaitlynn go in the cage to play with the geese. She also pet the sheep, donkey, alpaca, rabbit, hen, calf and other pony. We rode the train (that went up and down the street). She played some games: duck pond, bowling and bean bag toss and won some prizes (sunglasses, bubbles, keychain, candy, etc). We ate lunch. Kaitlynn got her face painted (a butterfly on her cheek), but when the clown put glitter on it, it got in her eyes and she freaked out. She ended up wiping it off. It was a really hot and sticky day, so I am sure the sweat and glitter didn't feel good in her eyes!
We went to church that late afternoon / early evening. Kaitlynn said she didn't want to go, but as soon as we got there, she was ready for class. She was just tired from the picnic. When I came to get Kaitlynn after class, she was sitting at a table coloring with some other kids and one of the teachers. I think she must like hanging around the teachers, which I think is fine. She immediately told me their Bible story: Jonah got ate by a big fish and then was spit out. The memory verse for the week: "Children obey your parents" Colossians 3:20. They played in a pool / whale ball pit (among other things). She had her usual cup of hot (warm) chocolate and we had to get going.I went to an Easy & Elegant Dinner Party at my friend Heather's. It was Heather's birthday, but she was hosting a House Party with Calphalon & Williams-Sonoma. It was a small group of us: Amanda, Ashley, Pam, Kit, and Colleen. We had so much fun chatting, drinking, eating and getting a tour of Heather's house (that her husband built). I can't wait to get together with these ladies again some time soon.
Mid Rivers and The Usual Suspects
June 4th Kaitlynn, MawMaw and I went to Mid Rivers Mall for the MLM Playdate. I thought we were doing good by getting there 5-10 minutes early. I was wrong. The line to see Dora the Explorer was to the other end of the mall. The line to "check in" was outrageous, too. By the time we got up to the table, the kids bags were gone (given away). Bummer! We got in line to get a balloon, stickers and cookies. Kaitlynn got a Diego sticker, a Stride Rite sticker, a pink balloon and a couple cookies. We got in line to do the pretzel rolling, but Kaitlynn had to go to the bathroom. Perfect timing too - we were next in line! Oh well! After the bathroom break, we decided to skip the pretzel rolling because the line was ridiculously long (and not moving). We decided to decorate a cookie. While waiting in line, we met up with our friends Trisha, Kylie and Ava. Kaitlynn and Kylie decorated a cookie together.
After lunch, we went shopping. We also made a trip to the pet shop. Kaitlynn (and MawMaw) just had to see this little teacup chihuahua. Kaitlynn did not want to give him back and left the store crying.
Later that evening Dave, Kaitlynn, MawMaw and I went to the Zoo for Jungle Boogie. A band called The Usual Suspects were playing. Kaitlynn fell asleep in the car and stayed asleep after we first arrived. We decided to eat dinner while waiting for her to fully wake up. After dinner we ran into some old friends. Hanna and Adam also met us there. We also saw our friends Emily, Christopher, Ella and Beatrice. Kaitlynn suckered MawMaw into getting her a bear from Build-A-Bear, then suckered Hanna into getting her a penguin. Spoiled!! It was a fun evening with great music, fun company and good conversation.
After lunch, we went shopping. We also made a trip to the pet shop. Kaitlynn (and MawMaw) just had to see this little teacup chihuahua. Kaitlynn did not want to give him back and left the store crying.
Later that evening Dave, Kaitlynn, MawMaw and I went to the Zoo for Jungle Boogie. A band called The Usual Suspects were playing. Kaitlynn fell asleep in the car and stayed asleep after we first arrived. We decided to eat dinner while waiting for her to fully wake up. After dinner we ran into some old friends. Hanna and Adam also met us there. We also saw our friends Emily, Christopher, Ella and Beatrice. Kaitlynn suckered MawMaw into getting her a bear from Build-A-Bear, then suckered Hanna into getting her a penguin. Spoiled!! It was a fun evening with great music, fun company and good conversation.
Rash Update
June 1st, I took Kaitlynn to the pediatrician for her rash / bumps - possible side effects to the Amoxicillin. When we pulled up to the pediatrician's office building, Kaitlynn said, "This is the right doctor. They have a fish tank. They give me a cookie and sticker." She saw a different pediatrician, since her regular one was on vacation. She did fine, just refused to talk to him. Since Kaitlynn wasn't used to him, he asked me to hold her on my lap while he examined her. He said that we should stop the Amoxicillin (therefore also stopping the Benadryl). He said that the rash could be from the Amoxicillin, but it could also be from a virus. This way we would know. He didn't feel she needed the Amoxicillin for the virus. He said that if the rash came back, wait it out a few days, but if the fever came back to call them. He said that in the future if she is put on Amoxicillin that I should remind them about her reaction and she should be watched closely the first several days while on it. Kaitlynn was so excited not to have to take any more medication. She screamed "Yeah" and was jumping all around. She was so happy and excited to get a cookie and sticker. She always asks so politely, but then never eats the cookie!
Friday, June 4, 2010
Memorial Day
Monday the redness and bumps on Kaitlynn's face were gone, until we gave her a dose of Amoxicillin, so we gave her some Benadryl. We met some friends at the Greek Festival for lunch. While standing in the food line, Dave and I noticed that both of Kaitlynn's arms had bumps on them (as well as redness and bumps on her cheeks). It dawned on us at that moment that she might be allergic to the Amoxicillin. Dave is allergic to Amoxicillin. We decided that there wasn't much we (or anyone) could do at that point, so we stayed for lunch (and dessert). Kaitlynn acted the same, fine most of the time but with moments of extreme irritability.
After lunch, we came home and I called the pediatrician's exchange. The nurse said that the redness and bumps was just a side effect. She said it was harmless. She told us to continue giving Benadryl if she was itching. She said the irritability was a side effect to taking Amoxicillin as well. She also told us that Kaitlynn could actually receive a higher dose of Benadryl than what we were giving her. She recommended calling the pediatrician in the morning to get Kaitlynn checked out.
I did read the prescription information that came with the Amoxicillin, but Kaitlynn had taken it before and not had a reaction or any side effects, so we definitely weren't expecting a reaction.
We decided to continue with the Amoxicillin but give it with the proper dose of Benadryl. That seemed to help Kaitlynn. She was able to rest and take a nap.
Monday was also Hanna's birthday. We met Hanna, Adam and MawMaw at Red Lobster for dinner to celebrate.
After lunch, we came home and I called the pediatrician's exchange. The nurse said that the redness and bumps was just a side effect. She said it was harmless. She told us to continue giving Benadryl if she was itching. She said the irritability was a side effect to taking Amoxicillin as well. She also told us that Kaitlynn could actually receive a higher dose of Benadryl than what we were giving her. She recommended calling the pediatrician in the morning to get Kaitlynn checked out.
I did read the prescription information that came with the Amoxicillin, but Kaitlynn had taken it before and not had a reaction or any side effects, so we definitely weren't expecting a reaction.
We decided to continue with the Amoxicillin but give it with the proper dose of Benadryl. That seemed to help Kaitlynn. She was able to rest and take a nap.
Monday was also Hanna's birthday. We met Hanna, Adam and MawMaw at Red Lobster for dinner to celebrate.
Eckert's Memorial Day Festival
Sunday, we went to church.
Kaitlynn enjoyed her class.
She couldn't wait to fill the hummingbird feeder with food so we could hang it outside.
She had to take some pictures of mommy and daddy preparing lunch.
MawMaw, Kaitlynn, Dave and I went to Eckert's for their Memorial Day Festival. Kaitlynn had fun riding on the airplanes, riding 3 ponies, feeding 2 zebu, a camel and goats, playing in the sand box, riding a tricycle and taking a train ride. She loved pushing the kiddie cart around the market. We had a good dinner at the Country Restaurant and delicious frozen custard at the Custard Shop.
Kaitlynn's cheeks were red and had bumps on them for most of the day. We didn't notice any bumps on her arms. We decided to get some Benadryl, as the pediatric dentist suggested. She was still acting extremely irritable at times. However, she still wanted to go and do things. She didn't want to stay home and most of the time seemed like she was feeling well enough to go out. The Benadryl seemed to help with the redness and bumps.
Kaitlynn enjoyed her class.She couldn't wait to fill the hummingbird feeder with food so we could hang it outside.She had to take some pictures of mommy and daddy preparing lunch.MawMaw, Kaitlynn, Dave and I went to Eckert's for their Memorial Day Festival. Kaitlynn had fun riding on the airplanes, riding 3 ponies, feeding 2 zebu, a camel and goats, playing in the sand box, riding a tricycle and taking a train ride. She loved pushing the kiddie cart around the market. We had a good dinner at the Country Restaurant and delicious frozen custard at the Custard Shop.
Kaitlynn's cheeks were red and had bumps on them for most of the day. We didn't notice any bumps on her arms. We decided to get some Benadryl, as the pediatric dentist suggested. She was still acting extremely irritable at times. However, she still wanted to go and do things. She didn't want to stay home and most of the time seemed like she was feeling well enough to go out. The Benadryl seemed to help with the redness and bumps.
Greek Festival
Saturday early, early morning Kaitlynn woke up with a 101 temperature. Children's Tylenol brought the temperature down. Kaitlynn was fine the rest of the day, again almost bouncing off the walls. We decided to go to the Greek Festival for dinner. The pediatric dentist called to check on Kaitlynn. I told him she was doing much better and wasn't running a fever anymore. We noticed that the redness on her cheeks was back and there was even some bumps on her cheeks. We assumed it was from the surgical tape and the heat. We were only in the heat a short amount of time (though). Dave saw a few bumps on her left arm, but we weren't sure what they could be from and kind of brushed it off. She seemed to be feeling fine, just a little irritable. We ate dinner, listened to music and watched some Greek children dance. Kaitlynn had fun taking pictures of Dave and me with the camera. We ate dessert and then Kaitlynn said she was ready to go home. She continued to seem fine with the exception of being irritable.
Short trip to the Zoo
Last Friday at midnight, Kaitlynn woke up very warm and crying. The ear thermometer we use for her wouldn't work - dead batteries. And they are special batteries, so of course we didn't have any! I couldn't get the other thermometers to register under her arm because she was crying and they just wouldn't take her temperature. We gave her a dose of Children's Motrin and it took the possible fever away. later that morning the surgery center called to check on her and I told them she seemed to be doing well, but did wake up warm, but Motrin took care of it. Late that morning / early that afternoon, Kaitlynn complained of her head hurting, so she took some Children's Tylenol. It seemed to do the trick.
She was fine the rest of the day, bouncing off the walls, so we decided to pack up some sandwiches for dinner and go to the Zoo for Jungle Boogie. Kaitlynn said she wanted to see the giraffes first, so as we were headed over that way, she got distracted by the ducks. She likes to watch them in the water. When we were finally able to pull her away from duck watching, we went into the new Zootenial Exhibit. Dave and I thought it was pretty cool, but Kaitlynn did not and was ready to leave. I think this is probably when she started to feel bad, but didn't tell us. Instead she started getting cranky and we thought she was just tired and /or hot. It was a really warm day! We saw the big cats, zebras, giraffes and donkeys. When she saw the donkeys, she told Dave and me that Jesus had a donkey. We told her that Jesus did ride on a donkey. We went through the Flight Cage and she rode the carousel. Then she said she wasn't feeling good. She said her stomach and head were hurting her. Her cheeks were really red. The pediatric dentist said that her cheeks might get red / break out from the surgical tape (holding the breathing tube in place). It seemed to be a combination of that and probably more so that she was flushed. We decided to find a nice shady spot or a nice cool building to eat dinner at. Kaitlynn decided that she needed to go home. Kaitlynn wanting to leave the Zoo is a big deal. She loves the Zoo and would stay there all day and all night if she could. I immediately became worried and started thinking something must have gone wrong with the dental procedure and / or with the sedation.
We got her home and she wanted to take a shower. She stayed in the shower for about 30+ minutes, just letting the water hit her. Her tummy was a little hard. She was complaining with her stomach and head hurting. We took her temperature and it was 102.1, so we gave her some Children's Tylenol. Almost an hour later and her temperature was 102.5. I called her pediatric dentist's cell phone and told him what was going on. He said that he didn't think her symptoms had to do with the procedure, especially since she wasn't complaining of her teeth or ears hurting. He said she probably caught a virus and prescribed some Amoxicillin. Within a half an hour we had the Amoxicillin and gave Kaitlynn her first dose. Her temperature started coming down (100.5) and she was able to get some sleep.
She was fine the rest of the day, bouncing off the walls, so we decided to pack up some sandwiches for dinner and go to the Zoo for Jungle Boogie. Kaitlynn said she wanted to see the giraffes first, so as we were headed over that way, she got distracted by the ducks. She likes to watch them in the water. When we were finally able to pull her away from duck watching, we went into the new Zootenial Exhibit. Dave and I thought it was pretty cool, but Kaitlynn did not and was ready to leave. I think this is probably when she started to feel bad, but didn't tell us. Instead she started getting cranky and we thought she was just tired and /or hot. It was a really warm day! We saw the big cats, zebras, giraffes and donkeys. When she saw the donkeys, she told Dave and me that Jesus had a donkey. We told her that Jesus did ride on a donkey. We went through the Flight Cage and she rode the carousel. Then she said she wasn't feeling good. She said her stomach and head were hurting her. Her cheeks were really red. The pediatric dentist said that her cheeks might get red / break out from the surgical tape (holding the breathing tube in place). It seemed to be a combination of that and probably more so that she was flushed. We decided to find a nice shady spot or a nice cool building to eat dinner at. Kaitlynn decided that she needed to go home. Kaitlynn wanting to leave the Zoo is a big deal. She loves the Zoo and would stay there all day and all night if she could. I immediately became worried and started thinking something must have gone wrong with the dental procedure and / or with the sedation.
We got her home and she wanted to take a shower. She stayed in the shower for about 30+ minutes, just letting the water hit her. Her tummy was a little hard. She was complaining with her stomach and head hurting. We took her temperature and it was 102.1, so we gave her some Children's Tylenol. Almost an hour later and her temperature was 102.5. I called her pediatric dentist's cell phone and told him what was going on. He said that he didn't think her symptoms had to do with the procedure, especially since she wasn't complaining of her teeth or ears hurting. He said she probably caught a virus and prescribed some Amoxicillin. Within a half an hour we had the Amoxicillin and gave Kaitlynn her first dose. Her temperature started coming down (100.5) and she was able to get some sleep.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Dental Surgery
Last Thursday morning was Kaitlynn's dental surgery / procedure. She had 5 cavities filled and had to be sedated because of the location of the cavities and because it would be too traumatic to do under general anesthesia.
Kaitlynn couldn't eat or drink anything after midnight on Wednesday. She was still asleep when it was time for us to leave and since we were told to bring her in her pajamas, we just scooped her up and put her in her car seat. She slept in the car the whole way there. She woke up when we arrived. While waiting in the waiting area, Kaitlynn played with the camera on Dave's cell phone. She didn't ask for anything to drink or eat, which we were worried about. We were taken back to a room a little while later. Kaitlynn was excited about the surgery center bed and got right in it. She said "my bed!" The nurse brought her a warm blanket and she was set. Kaitlynn and the nurse put stickers on (heart monitor). The anesthesiologist came in to talk to us. He told us about the procedure and why sedation was the best route and that it was a common procedure. He also had to inform us that the procedure comes with some risks. He said that she would be out of it, asleep during the whole procedure. They would give her oxygen through her nose and she would have a breathing tube inserted down her throat. He said her nose may be bloody after the procedure due to the oxygen given to her through her nose. He said that her throat may be sore because of the breathing tube. He said that there was a small risk that she could stop breathing during the surgery, but they would be monitoring her very well and take all precautions necessary. At this point, I was trying not to loose it. I was already nervous about the procedure, but then to hear those words (aloud). To hear that she was going to be totally out, with a breathing tube and that there was a small risk that she could stop breathing was almost too much for me. I just started praying silently for God to give me strength while in front of Kaitlynn. I just kept praying over and over. The anesthesiologist said that she would wake up crying and cranky because she wouldn't have anything to compare this experience too. She has never felt this way before (to be coming out of sedation) and it would cause her to cry and be cranky out of confusion. He said that Kaitlynn should do fine since she is a healthy child.
Another nurse brought some liquid medication for Kaitlynn to take. It was to help relax her and also contained Tylenol. We changed Kaitlynn into a Looney Tunes children's gown. The nurses gave Kaitlynn a pink teddy bear. Kaitlynn also brought a Barney stuffed toy that Brandon gave her a few nights before. Once the leads were put on the heart monitors, I got in bed with Kaitlynn and just held her. We watched Sesame Street. The pediatric dentist came in to see how Kaitlynn was doing and to see if we had any questions before the procedure. Another nurse and the anesthesiologist nurse came in the room to bring Kaitlynn a mask. It smelled like cherries. They asked Kaitlynn what she named her new teddy bear. Kaitlynn told them "Teddy, Teddy Bear." (Duh?!) They asked Kaitlynn if she wanted to help them blow up a big green balloon. She said she did. So they wheeled her bed down the hall. We followed the bed. Kaitlynn did awesome. She didn't cry for us. In fact, one of the nurses had to pick her up from the bed to carry her into the OR and she didn't look back for us or cry. She was comfortable. Thank You God for that sweet blessing. If she would have been crying and clinging to us, I don't know what I would have done.
The other nurses kept telling me she would be OK and that they would take care of her, as we went out to the waiting room. The waiting (while the surgery was going on) made me more sick than the waiting before surgery. A nurse came out to tell us that they just started the procedure and it would take about an hour. She said Kaitlynn was asleep and went down well. At that point, I had to excuse myself to go to the bathroom and cry and have a talk with Jesus. I prayed that Kaitlynn would make it through the procedure and that everyone of the staff that came in contact with her would have the knowledge and skill to keep her safe. I prayed for strength to get through the waiting. I prayed and prayed. God gave me the strength to be able to calm down. I felt an almost easiness come over me and I was able to watch the news and read some of the book I brought. Dave commented that he was proud of me. I asked for what. He said for being strong and not falling apart. I appreciated his kindness. I also appreciated my friend Nikki's kindness and support. She texted me throughout the procedure to see how we were doing and for news about Kaitlynn. She reminded me of how strong I am and that I have been through a lot recently, but I would remain strong because that is what Kaitlynn needed me to do. Her words were very helpful.
About an hour later, the pediatric dentist came out and told us that they were done and everything went fine. He said that she was awake but pretty cranky. I basically ran down the hall to her room, especially after hearing her cries. The nurses were attending to her. Kaitlynn was crying and trying to move while half asleep. They had padding over the bed rails to ensure she didn't hurt herself. She was kind of flailing about. They took her blood pressure and took the pads off one side of the rails so I could lay with her. I got in bed and held her and much as I could (with the monitor leads and IV). She kept crying on and off and saying "mama". It broke my heart to see her this way, but I was so thankful that she was OK. They monitored her for a bit longer and then took her off the monitors so I could hold her in the chair. Her nose was a little bloody. She kept pressing her right wrist up against my body and making the IV bleed. The nurse said she could take the IV out if Kaitlynn could take a sip of juice and keep it down. Kaitlynn took a sip, so the nurse was able to take the IV out. Kaitlynn fought her while she was taking it out. She was bleeding pretty badly, so the nurse and I were trying to get Kaitlynn to let us put some pressure on it. I was finally able to calm Kaitlynn down. She was just crying on and off, groggy, cranky, a little agitated and confused. The nurse put some gauze and tape on it and said that there would probably be a bruise there, but not to worry about it. The nurse said Kaitlynn was mad at her because she was the one that had to give Kaitlynn the yucky medicine. (The IV was put in after she was asleep - thankfully.) We watched Barney while the nurses kept checking in on us and monitoring her from outside the room. The anesthesiologist nurse kept talking about how cute Kaitlynn is. The anesthesiologist came by to make sure she was doing well. The nurse gave Kaitlynn a Winnie the Pooh puzzle and told her when she was feeling better she could put it together. We stayed in recovery for about 45 minutes. The nurse said Kaitlynn would probably feel better once she was at home. Kaitlynn had started waking up a bit and watching Barney while laying in my lap. Barney was at the beach and Kaitlynn started crying, saying that she wanted to go to the beach. I was ready to book a trip for later that day for us!! Kaitlynn said she was ready to go home, so we left (since everyone was comfortable with that decision). While in the recovery room, Dave called MawMaw to let her know Kaitlynn was OK.
In the car, Kaitlynn asked "What did the doctor do to me?" We told her that he took care of her teeth and that she didn't have to think about it anymore, just to relax. Then once we got close to home, she said "Hey, I thought we were watching Sesame Street? Where's my bracelet?" She wanted her surgery center bracelet back on. It was a little big on her and fell off. I put it back on her. We got home and I put her in our bed to rest and snuggle with. The dentist and nurses said she would probably sleep for about 2 hours when she came home and just to keep her calm and watch her if she wanted to get up and play. She was ready to start playing immediately! We put her new Winnie the Pooh puzzle together and she ate a popsicle while waiting for Dave to bring her a Diego DVD home. Once Dave got home with the DVD, she ate noodles and chili mac and was still ready to play. A few hours later, Dave took her to get milkshakes from Steak n Shake (we were hoping she would fall asleep in the car). The nurse said it was best to give her popsicles, ice cream and milk shakes unless she wanted other things. While in the drive thru, she told Dave she wanted a toy, so he got the milkshakes and then went by McDonald's to get her a Happy Meal. She ate a few bites of the hamburger and a few fries. Later they went for a walk and she fell asleep in her stroller (for 2 hours). She seemed to feel fine the rest of the day and didn't need any pain medication. Her voice was a little raspy or low (from the breathing tube). Her little voice sounded like she didn't feel well and she didn't look to well through her eyes. She looked a little puffy, too. Most of that went away by the next day.
Kaitlynn has such a wise soul! We are so proud of our big, brave girl (as we always are)! Another sort of "accomplishment" during the procedure / surgery is that she stayed dried. They said many kids urinate during the procedure.
Thank You God for our answered prayers, for Kaitlynn coming through the procedure well and not having any complications!
Kaitlynn couldn't eat or drink anything after midnight on Wednesday. She was still asleep when it was time for us to leave and since we were told to bring her in her pajamas, we just scooped her up and put her in her car seat. She slept in the car the whole way there. She woke up when we arrived. While waiting in the waiting area, Kaitlynn played with the camera on Dave's cell phone. She didn't ask for anything to drink or eat, which we were worried about. We were taken back to a room a little while later. Kaitlynn was excited about the surgery center bed and got right in it. She said "my bed!" The nurse brought her a warm blanket and she was set. Kaitlynn and the nurse put stickers on (heart monitor). The anesthesiologist came in to talk to us. He told us about the procedure and why sedation was the best route and that it was a common procedure. He also had to inform us that the procedure comes with some risks. He said that she would be out of it, asleep during the whole procedure. They would give her oxygen through her nose and she would have a breathing tube inserted down her throat. He said her nose may be bloody after the procedure due to the oxygen given to her through her nose. He said that her throat may be sore because of the breathing tube. He said that there was a small risk that she could stop breathing during the surgery, but they would be monitoring her very well and take all precautions necessary. At this point, I was trying not to loose it. I was already nervous about the procedure, but then to hear those words (aloud). To hear that she was going to be totally out, with a breathing tube and that there was a small risk that she could stop breathing was almost too much for me. I just started praying silently for God to give me strength while in front of Kaitlynn. I just kept praying over and over. The anesthesiologist said that she would wake up crying and cranky because she wouldn't have anything to compare this experience too. She has never felt this way before (to be coming out of sedation) and it would cause her to cry and be cranky out of confusion. He said that Kaitlynn should do fine since she is a healthy child.
Another nurse brought some liquid medication for Kaitlynn to take. It was to help relax her and also contained Tylenol. We changed Kaitlynn into a Looney Tunes children's gown. The nurses gave Kaitlynn a pink teddy bear. Kaitlynn also brought a Barney stuffed toy that Brandon gave her a few nights before. Once the leads were put on the heart monitors, I got in bed with Kaitlynn and just held her. We watched Sesame Street. The pediatric dentist came in to see how Kaitlynn was doing and to see if we had any questions before the procedure. Another nurse and the anesthesiologist nurse came in the room to bring Kaitlynn a mask. It smelled like cherries. They asked Kaitlynn what she named her new teddy bear. Kaitlynn told them "Teddy, Teddy Bear." (Duh?!) They asked Kaitlynn if she wanted to help them blow up a big green balloon. She said she did. So they wheeled her bed down the hall. We followed the bed. Kaitlynn did awesome. She didn't cry for us. In fact, one of the nurses had to pick her up from the bed to carry her into the OR and she didn't look back for us or cry. She was comfortable. Thank You God for that sweet blessing. If she would have been crying and clinging to us, I don't know what I would have done.
The other nurses kept telling me she would be OK and that they would take care of her, as we went out to the waiting room. The waiting (while the surgery was going on) made me more sick than the waiting before surgery. A nurse came out to tell us that they just started the procedure and it would take about an hour. She said Kaitlynn was asleep and went down well. At that point, I had to excuse myself to go to the bathroom and cry and have a talk with Jesus. I prayed that Kaitlynn would make it through the procedure and that everyone of the staff that came in contact with her would have the knowledge and skill to keep her safe. I prayed for strength to get through the waiting. I prayed and prayed. God gave me the strength to be able to calm down. I felt an almost easiness come over me and I was able to watch the news and read some of the book I brought. Dave commented that he was proud of me. I asked for what. He said for being strong and not falling apart. I appreciated his kindness. I also appreciated my friend Nikki's kindness and support. She texted me throughout the procedure to see how we were doing and for news about Kaitlynn. She reminded me of how strong I am and that I have been through a lot recently, but I would remain strong because that is what Kaitlynn needed me to do. Her words were very helpful.
About an hour later, the pediatric dentist came out and told us that they were done and everything went fine. He said that she was awake but pretty cranky. I basically ran down the hall to her room, especially after hearing her cries. The nurses were attending to her. Kaitlynn was crying and trying to move while half asleep. They had padding over the bed rails to ensure she didn't hurt herself. She was kind of flailing about. They took her blood pressure and took the pads off one side of the rails so I could lay with her. I got in bed and held her and much as I could (with the monitor leads and IV). She kept crying on and off and saying "mama". It broke my heart to see her this way, but I was so thankful that she was OK. They monitored her for a bit longer and then took her off the monitors so I could hold her in the chair. Her nose was a little bloody. She kept pressing her right wrist up against my body and making the IV bleed. The nurse said she could take the IV out if Kaitlynn could take a sip of juice and keep it down. Kaitlynn took a sip, so the nurse was able to take the IV out. Kaitlynn fought her while she was taking it out. She was bleeding pretty badly, so the nurse and I were trying to get Kaitlynn to let us put some pressure on it. I was finally able to calm Kaitlynn down. She was just crying on and off, groggy, cranky, a little agitated and confused. The nurse put some gauze and tape on it and said that there would probably be a bruise there, but not to worry about it. The nurse said Kaitlynn was mad at her because she was the one that had to give Kaitlynn the yucky medicine. (The IV was put in after she was asleep - thankfully.) We watched Barney while the nurses kept checking in on us and monitoring her from outside the room. The anesthesiologist nurse kept talking about how cute Kaitlynn is. The anesthesiologist came by to make sure she was doing well. The nurse gave Kaitlynn a Winnie the Pooh puzzle and told her when she was feeling better she could put it together. We stayed in recovery for about 45 minutes. The nurse said Kaitlynn would probably feel better once she was at home. Kaitlynn had started waking up a bit and watching Barney while laying in my lap. Barney was at the beach and Kaitlynn started crying, saying that she wanted to go to the beach. I was ready to book a trip for later that day for us!! Kaitlynn said she was ready to go home, so we left (since everyone was comfortable with that decision). While in the recovery room, Dave called MawMaw to let her know Kaitlynn was OK.
In the car, Kaitlynn asked "What did the doctor do to me?" We told her that he took care of her teeth and that she didn't have to think about it anymore, just to relax. Then once we got close to home, she said "Hey, I thought we were watching Sesame Street? Where's my bracelet?" She wanted her surgery center bracelet back on. It was a little big on her and fell off. I put it back on her. We got home and I put her in our bed to rest and snuggle with. The dentist and nurses said she would probably sleep for about 2 hours when she came home and just to keep her calm and watch her if she wanted to get up and play. She was ready to start playing immediately! We put her new Winnie the Pooh puzzle together and she ate a popsicle while waiting for Dave to bring her a Diego DVD home. Once Dave got home with the DVD, she ate noodles and chili mac and was still ready to play. A few hours later, Dave took her to get milkshakes from Steak n Shake (we were hoping she would fall asleep in the car). The nurse said it was best to give her popsicles, ice cream and milk shakes unless she wanted other things. While in the drive thru, she told Dave she wanted a toy, so he got the milkshakes and then went by McDonald's to get her a Happy Meal. She ate a few bites of the hamburger and a few fries. Later they went for a walk and she fell asleep in her stroller (for 2 hours). She seemed to feel fine the rest of the day and didn't need any pain medication. Her voice was a little raspy or low (from the breathing tube). Her little voice sounded like she didn't feel well and she didn't look to well through her eyes. She looked a little puffy, too. Most of that went away by the next day.
Kaitlynn has such a wise soul! We are so proud of our big, brave girl (as we always are)! Another sort of "accomplishment" during the procedure / surgery is that she stayed dried. They said many kids urinate during the procedure.
Thank You God for our answered prayers, for Kaitlynn coming through the procedure well and not having any complications!
USA Cutie
Monday (the 24th) MawMaw was discharged from the hospital. Yeah!
Our USA Cutie! Wednesday the 25th, she had so much fun at MawMaw's watering her flowers and vegetable garden. MawMaw planted tomatoes, eggplant, cucumber and green bell pepper. It was important to us that Kaitlynn see her MawMaw before her dental surgery / procedure the next day. I also sent out emails and text messages asking for prayers.
Our USA Cutie! Wednesday the 25th, she had so much fun at MawMaw's watering her flowers and vegetable garden. MawMaw planted tomatoes, eggplant, cucumber and green bell pepper. It was important to us that Kaitlynn see her MawMaw before her dental surgery / procedure the next day. I also sent out emails and text messages asking for prayers.
Swing Around Fun Town
Saturday the 22nd we went to a birthday party at Swing Around Fun Town. Kaitlynn had a blast! We were there for almost 6 hours! She first explored the games inside and then we went outside. She rode the kiddie go carts, then rode the go carts with daddy. Their ride was cut short because she wasn't too fond of how fast they were going. Kaitlynn and daddy rode the bumper boats. Kaitlynn didn't like that ride either. She kept trying to get up. Later we realized she didn't like it because she couldn't reach the squirter over Dave's legs. We played miniature golf and then did the bumper boats again. This time Kaitlynn rode with me and daddy rode in a separate bumper boat. Kaitlynn had a blast! She loved going after daddy to squirt him and squirting the other boys! We rode the boats like 5 times in a row. We were absolutely drenched. Kaitlynn and daddy played another round of miniature golf and went to the batting cages.
We went to visit MawMaw at the hospital (in our drenched clothes). MawMaw was doing well.
We went to visit MawMaw at the hospital (in our drenched clothes). MawMaw was doing well.
Going to be a Doctor
Several weeks ago, I attended my last Bible study class. I learned so much from this class and I loved learning about The Bible with this group. What a wonderful learning environment! A place to ask questions and really start to understand The Word.
Kaitlynn and I went up to the hospital to visit MawMaw. Dave met us up there after work. MawMaw was doing well. Kaitlynn loved being up at the hospital. MawMaw was on the same floor as her last hospitalization so she had the same nurses and techs. Kaitlynn had lots of "friends" there (from before). As we were walking down the hall to visit MawMaw, she told me that she was going to be a doctor. We wouldn't be surprised!
Before we left for the hospital, I told her to look in the mirror to see how she looked and she said "I look beautiful!" I love her confidence! BTW, she did look beautiful and was told that by almost everyone that passed her in the hospital.
Kaitlynn and I went up to the hospital to visit MawMaw. Dave met us up there after work. MawMaw was doing well. Kaitlynn loved being up at the hospital. MawMaw was on the same floor as her last hospitalization so she had the same nurses and techs. Kaitlynn had lots of "friends" there (from before). As we were walking down the hall to visit MawMaw, she told me that she was going to be a doctor. We wouldn't be surprised!Before we left for the hospital, I told her to look in the mirror to see how she looked and she said "I look beautiful!" I love her confidence! BTW, she did look beautiful and was told that by almost everyone that passed her in the hospital.
Doctors Appointments and ER
One day last month, we had a busy day of doctors appointments. We took MawMaw to an appointment, in which her doctor said she needed to go to the ER that evening and be admitted to the hospital. Kaitlynn had her pre-surgery appointment with her pediatrician. The pediatrician checked Kaitlynn's heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, eyes, ears, nose, throat, and listened to her lungs. She said she was confident Kaitlynn could go through the procedure / surgery without any problems. Between appointments, we had lunch and let Kaitlynn play in the play area at Burger King.
Hanna and Adam watched Kaitlynn so Dave and I could attend our last class at church. We met some really cool people that we hope to continue to stay in contact with. After getting home from class, I took MawMaw to the ER and she was admitted to the hospital.
Hanna and Adam watched Kaitlynn so Dave and I could attend our last class at church. We met some really cool people that we hope to continue to stay in contact with. After getting home from class, I took MawMaw to the ER and she was admitted to the hospital.
Zoo Friends Day and MLM at Eckert's
Dave, Kaitlynn and I went to the Zoo. It was wet and a little rainy, but we handled it because we wanted to take advantage of Zoo Friends Day. A little rain did not discourage people from going to the Zoo, especially Zoo Members. I guess we all wanted to enjoy "our" day. Something new this year at The Caribbean Cove, which opened last year, is that they have horseshoe crabs in with the stingrays. Kaitlynn wouldn't pet the stingrays because of them splashing her last year (and couldn't reach the horseshoe crabs). That really scared her of putting her hands in the water now. Kaitlynn was totally cracking us up as we were near Big Cat Country and the zebras. She was walking around (with her backpack on) singing "I'm an animal doctor for my pets, my pets" over and over. Each time getting louder and louder until she was almost screaming it to the top of her lungs. It was just so funny! The song is from Barney's Animal ABCs and is actually "The vet is an animal doctor...". Kaitlynn saw her first sea lion show, which she really enjoyed. It was so cool to see them up close. They really are like dogs, as the keeper said.
Then we went to Eckert's for strawberry picking with MomsLikeMe.com. All the kids got to pick a pint of strawberries for free. Kaitlynn enjoyed picking strawberries, actually eating strawberries (once she fully woke up). Every time I would put one in her little tray, she would eat it! She did do a little picking, but mainly eating. They were delicious! After strawberry picking, we enjoyed some yummy frozen custard, then went to Eckert's market. Kaitlynn had fun pushing her own little cart around the market and even had her own bottle of Sparkling Cider.
Then we went to Eckert's for strawberry picking with MomsLikeMe.com. All the kids got to pick a pint of strawberries for free. Kaitlynn enjoyed picking strawberries, actually eating strawberries (once she fully woke up). Every time I would put one in her little tray, she would eat it! She did do a little picking, but mainly eating. They were delicious! After strawberry picking, we enjoyed some yummy frozen custard, then went to Eckert's market. Kaitlynn had fun pushing her own little cart around the market and even had her own bottle of Sparkling Cider.
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