Showing posts with label health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label health. Show all posts

Sick Day

Murray is sick.  I hate it when he's sick.

He developed a fever late yesterday afternoon, and complained of a sore throat and a headache.  As soon as I heard, I rushed to the local pharmacy and purchased every little thing I could think of to make him feel better.  Acetaminophen, orange juice, chicken noodle soup, a new thermometer, etc. 

After he spit out half of the dose of medicine I gave him, I put a cold washcloth on his head and put him on DH's lap.  I had him sip soup from a mug, encouraged fluids, and gave him a tepid bath.  Just call us the Spock's. 

At 7:30 p.m. or so, he suddenly perked up and decided it was time to run around the house.  Craig and I attempted to settle him down, but soon gave up when he showed no signs of feeling ill - it had to be the acetaminophen.

Murray slept with me, so Craig got the boot to the couch (he insisted he would sleep better, I didn't make him, I swear).  Other mommies know that when your child is ill, even if he/she is sleeping soundly, you wake up every fifteen minutes or so to check foreheads for fever and signs of respiratory complications.  I am one of them.  I'm exhausted.

This morning when Murman woke up, he demanded breakfast and PBS Kids, just like any other morning.  I felt some relief, thinking that I was a genius mom/nurse.  Not so much.

He's not complaining of aches and pains anymore, but he's been extremely lethargic and doesn't have have an appetite (he only ate 2 french toasts sticks at breakfast instead of the normal four).  This, from a kid who acts like the Energizer Bunny, eats 8 meals a day, and asks for a snack five minutes after he's put his dinner plate in the sink. 

So, Murman and I spent the day taking it easy.  I've watched 'Toy Story 3' twice, 'How to Train Your Dragon' once, and more PBS Kids then I can handle.  I missed my trashy daytime t.v. and ignored the laundry.  We snuggled on the couch and ate chicken noodle soup and drank copious amounts of ice water and orange juice.

Sick days aren't so bad after all.

-MM

The Ant Saga: Part II (or is it three or four) and Other Stuff

I have scrubbed, and when I say that, I mean bleached, scrubbed, and rinsed every single surface in this house.  Door frames, walls, ceiling fans, cupboards, the refrigerator, window sills, and base boards.  I've cleaned the basement, pulled out every piece of furniture and appliance and scrubbed underneath and behind.  After all of that, I sprayed Raid Indoor (twice) and sprinkled the outside with ant killer.  So when I spotted the darned ant again, I was livid.  But, I "re-Raided everything I could think of (besides Murman), and then, it happened.  If ants could fly, then that's what they did.  A trail of them (and a large one) streamed from behind the fridge (said area was raided, then scrubbed, and then raided again with me yanking the damn thing out myself a week prior from today) and then I lost my marbles.  My rage could be a combination of losing my job, struggling and juggling homework and the house and the fact that there are only four more episodes of Oprah, but I did it - I flipped.   I don't think it has anything to do with anything other than my war against the S&*^$ ants.   Please allow me to remind you that this house has been as clean as a hospital since the "unfortunate incident".  I just can't get rid of the ants, and I've tried EVERYTHING!  Suggestions?  Please? Anyone?  HELP!

Good news to share; I've scored very well on my first few assignments.  Summer courses, especially online are incredibly demanding and I'm thrilled that I've been able to not only keep up, but make the grades!  Go me!

I went back to the doctor yesterday because my allergies have been getting worse.  I love Dr. J.,  but I should have just called the Great G.K., an expert on most things, one of them allergies.  She reminded me that not only is the cat a problem (sadly) but so are feather pillows and any sort of dander.  When I used her words of wisdom to analyze the symptoms I've been having, so many things made sense.  In fact, please excuse the poor paraphrase: G.K. said, "Allergies are cumulative.  The more triggers you add, the worse the symptoms become."  What I thought was strange is that for most of my life, I haven't had seasonal allergies.  I learned that they can develop over time, and best of all, I'm not a hypochondriac.  At least, I think not.  So for now, I'm closing the windows, the cat has a new home, and tomorrow, I'm going pillow shopping.  The good news?  My oven is clean. 

Happy weekend.  My your life be allergen free and your floors never be dirty.  Good luck with that.  :)

Bad Timing

I had an early appointment with my physician this morning to discuss allergies and some problems I've been having with high blood pressure.  I took Murray along since doing so allowed me a bit more time to sleep before the trek to West Fargo (yes, I crossed the river).  Anyway, after assessing my allergy problem, we tackled the high blood pressure.  As we're discussing weight loss and exercise, Murray leans over, pokes the doctor in the arm, turns to me and says, "Mom!  Please listen to me.  When are we leaving for McDonald's?"  Dr. J. burst out laughing, and I said, "Don't worry, Dr., I'll have a smoothie."

Anyway, first step, lose 20 pounds.  Second step, get on my allergy medication.  Third step, get blood pressure re-checked.  I'm going to feel so much better and I can hardly wait!  And one final step, reiterate good manners; evidently Murray needs a refresher.

Happy weekend!

More Murrayisms

Murray experienced his very first visit to the Dentist yesterday.  He did very well, even allowing the hygienist to clean all of his teeth.  We were so proud of his behavior that he was rewarded with not one, but two stickers on his chart.  We used to have to bribe  coax him to brush his teeth, but now we can't get him away from the bathroom sink. 

You are most likely bored with posts featuring conversations with Murray, but I have to record them somewhere, so following are a few of the latest "Murrayisms":
Murray at Dinner:
Murray:  "Excuse me please?" (he meant to say, "may I please be excused" before leaving the dinner table)
Craig:  "You're excused, and please remember to take your dishes to the kitchen."
Murray:  After a long, puzzled stare at his dirty plates, sighs, "But I don't have 3 arms!"

Murray at Snack:
"Could I please have some more milk Big Daddy?" (where he picked up this one, we'll never know)

Murray and I Discussing Families:
Me:  "Some kids have a brother or a sister to play with".
Murray: "Can Carwee be my sister, Mama?" (referring to our favorite sitter)

Murray and I Discussing Personal Information:
Me:  "Murray, what's your name?"
Murray:  "Murray Beckerweg Joseph" (close enough - he also knows his address, but it tends to be a bit mixed up).

Is it obvious that the weather has improved my mood?  Happy Spring!

An Endless Night

Murray has been acting strange lately.  He's been complaining that his legs hurt, but we chalked it up to growing pains.  I haven't been feeling so hot either, so yesterday I took off work early to take a nap.  At around 3 p.m., our beloved "Linnie" (our daycare provider) called to report that Murray had a temp of 103-plus.  So I picked him up and called his doctor's office and they said to administer Tylenol and lots of fluids and to call if the fever rose to 104 degrees.  The strange thing was is that despite a pretty decent fever, he wasn't acting any differently.  Since he seemed okay, I left him with Craig and went into work for a while. 

We put him to bed after a dose of Tylenol, but I was worried, so I hunkered down on the floor in his room. I shouldn't have slept right next to his bed. At who knows what hour, I woke up to vomit.  And it Was. All. Over. Us.  I got us cleaned up, changed, and we moved to the living room; exhausted but wide awake.  A long movie and several hours later, it happened.  Again.  And one more time after that.  Needless to say, Murman and I did NOT get any sleep.   As the night wore on, I myself, was feeling worse by the hour.  My face felt (and still does) like it had enough pressure under my skin to burst, and then I realized that I too, had a fever.  Add sore throat and an ear ache and Murray and I are are physical wrecks. 

OH!  I forgot to mention some very exciting news.  Craig got the OK from his doctor yesterday to return to work with the understanding that he is not aloud to lift over 20 pounds, or do anything physical (like skating) for 6 months.  He was thrilled, and went to work immediately after his appointment.

Anyway, besides our immune system issues, we're doing well.  I apologize for a poor-pitiful-me post, but ask any member of my family: I get this way when I'm sick.  I turn into a huge baby, and even worse when my own baby is feeling sick too.

So today I'm chugging orange juice and Zi-Cam, and Murray is with my dear mother-in-law so that both of us can get some rest.  More to follow, but I'm going back to bed.

Progress

Craig attended his first physical therapy appointment this morning and came home with a list of stretches to do twice daily.  The plan is to stretch the muscles around the broken vertebrae, and then next week, begin strengthening (hopefully) those muscles.  The next CT Scan is scheduled for February 9, at which time we hope to be done with doctors and therapists and get back to normal.  He is allowed to take his brace off for one hour/day, increasing time every other day.  Slow and steady wins the race.

There are some positive outcomes (as with anything negative that happens) to Craig's injury.  Since Craig broke his back, I've learned how to jump-start a car (Peace Garden Mama and I accomplished this as a team, more to come on that story), I'm navigating the icy roads like a pro, today I ran the snow blower, and tonight I have to fill in as fry cook helping the Sons of the American Legion.  I like this feeling of independence.  I'm ready for more!

Lazy Days

I'm having a lazy Saturday morning.  I know that I MUST get this house in order before the end of the day, but I'm using the excuse that I can't use my hands for a few hours because I just had a manicure (but typing is obviously okay).  Besides, Craig is resting, Murray is with the Grandparents, so that leaves me to some quiet time.   I also have this ridiculous addiction to Edgemont, which airs on CW every Saturday.  Ahhh....the beauty of "me" time.

Our shopping is nearly finished except for a few items to pick up tomorrow. As much as I dreaded black Friday (my first), it turned out to be worth it.  The rest of the gifts have been purchased online, so I don't have to battle the crowds more than once.  And believe me, once was enough.

My new Rumor Touch arrived yesterday.  I had been using my sister's Blackberry, but I discovered that I am not, and never will be a fan of them.  My new phone isn't as fancy, but it's user-friendly for someone like me, who is not tech-savvy.

So, a rather boring post today, but I just felt like writing.  We continue to do well and are adjusting to our "new normal".  Blessing for a very Merry CHRISTmas.

No Shirt, No Work

On the ride home this evening, Murray pointed out where Craig works and the following discussion ensued:

Murray:     "Mama, Dad not at work?"
Me:          "No, Dad got hurt, remember?"
Murray:    "Oh, he fall off roof.  He can't go to work 'cause he no shirt to put on." (insert silent laughter here). 
Me:          "Why doesn't daddy have a shirt?"
Murray:    "Because he fell off the roof, MOM!"

 After a lengthy discussion about getting hurt and getting dressed, we walked in the door and Murray cried, "DAD, you don't have a shirt but you can do dishes!"  Oh, be still my heart.  My son gets it. 

I do my best to make sure that my husband is clothed, but he gets extremely hot while wearing his brace, so he wears a cotton tank underneath that the prosthetics company provided, and nothing over the brace.  

For Heaven's sake.  The boy is three years old.  Where does he come up with his chatter? Peace Garden Mama has precious stories about her son's hysterical dialog and points out that we will miss these words and ideas before we know it.

Embrace the innocence!
P.S.  Craig biggest concern is that he can't take Murray to open skate, as he starts MYH Tots in January.  Volunteers needed!  I'll be on the ice too, but I'm afraid my figure skating isn't up to teaching a three-year-old.

"They Keep Moving the Cheese"

I'd like to begin by stating our utmost love and respect for the "F" family, you know that you are and will continue to be in our prayers.  We're with you all the way.

The title to this post is taken from a an excerpt in the book, "Who Moved My Cheese?", an inspirational and phenomenal look at change in the workplace.

Today was my first day at the Foundation.  Kim (whose job I will assume) is an amazing woman and an excellent trainer.  I met some of the students that I will be supervising and am looking forward to meeting the others on Wednesday evening.  I spoke with my soon-to-be boss today, and she and I will work on my job description as the month progresses.  My initial responsibilities include coordinating the annual Phone-A-Thon and the Campus Campaign.  Event planning is in the near future and I'm thrilled already at my new position.  The staff at the Foundation is fantastic and I'm thrilled to be a part of the team.  That said, I will miss my bosses and supervisors in the President's Office, but this is an amazing opportunity.  The chips landed in such a way that I just know that God is with me (not to mention all of those who went to bat for me).

Craig had his first outing today.  I drove Miss Daisy to his office and to Human Resources to complete some paperwork.  I think he had fun getting out, but I know he was pretty sore and tired when I deposited him back at home.  I feel so helpless; I'd rather it was me than him.

I didn't get to spend more than ten minutes with Murray tonight, but every second was precious.  When I walked in the door tonight, he shouted, "Mama, you came back!  You done with work?  I missed you!"  Words can't describe how my heart swelled.  I am an incredibly lucky woman.

Thanks to Jon and Troy for providing food and company for Murray and Craig tonight while I was away.   Everyone who has volunteered to help us out means a great deal, and don't be surprised if we take you up on your offers.  The meals and help with Murray are a real blessing, especially with my work transition.

Many, many thanks to all.
Blessings,
M
P.S. Did you know that I despise, detest, and loathe winter?

Progress

It's Sunday afternoon, and Craig and I are watching the Vikings; finally a fun game to watch.

Craig is hanging in there, but I fear what boredom will do to him.  Last night he couldn't sleep, so he sent me to the couch.  It apparently didn't help, because he's tired today.  He's also getting a tad ornery, but I can't blame him.  It must be terrible to be stuck on the couch or in bed all day for this long (and he still has at least another week).  He told me today that his goal was to have his brace off by January 9th, because that's when Murray's first hockey season begins.  I wanted to tell him that even if his brace is off by then, he won't be taking to the ice any time soon.  I just didn't want to dash his hopes; anything is possible.

In the mean time, I'm attempting to keep up with the housework, but hit I a road bump on Thursday night.  For some reason strange reason, my right calf spasmed and I could hardly walk for two days.  It's better now, though a little sore, but at least I'm functional again.  I'm thinking it was probably nerves.  So it seems that with every step forward, I take two back.  My sister walked in the door yesterday and said, "What happened to your house?  You write about cleaning all the time!"  I've gotten to the point of realizing that our home isn't going to be perfect any time soon, or maybe ever.  It's sanitary, but there is just "stuff" everywhere.  So, if you come over for a visit, I'm apologizing in advance now.

Anyway, we're going to finish watching the Vikings and then it's off to a family dinner, which I'm looking forward to.  Craig hasn't been out of the house since the accident, and though he would love to join us, he's home bound.  Thanks to the H family in advance for bringing dinner tonight.

Tomorrow is my first day of training at what will become my new job in January.  I'm very excited!

Happy Sunday, Monday will be here before we know it.

Clark Griswold - An Update

First of all, a HUGE thank you to our friends and family for the support.  Your thoughts and prayers mean the world.

I arrived at the hospital this morning to find a weary Craig and the news that he would not be released today.  We hope for tomorrow, but it could be Wednesday.  The L1 vertebrae is broken, and 30% compressed on one side (he shrunk).  This means that he'll wear a brace for 4-6 weeks; hopefully avoiding any surgery.  He was measured by the nice man from Hangar, and are praying that the that the brace will arrive tomorrow.  When we get home, he will need to be flat on his back for two weeks, after which time he hopes to back to work.  He will only be allowed to sit up for 45 minutes at a time, and then will either stand up or lie down (flat again).  I think I'll get him a cot for his office for Christmas.

I left him in the good hands of the Fink's and hope to get some housework done so that I will be organized for his homecoming.  He was in good spirits (laughter, hydrocodone and strong muscle relaxers did the trick) when I left and now I hope he'll nap for awhile. 

In all of the hoopla last night, Troy took Murray home so I could be with Craig.  Stef had us in fits of laughter recalling the events of the evening.  Apparently, he walked in the door, took his coat off, looked at Stef with a deadpan expression and said, "My Dad fell off the roof.  They might shoot him."  Stef changed the subject and they did the laundry.  Apparently we need to have some discussion about guns.  We hope to have him visit the hospital this evening, depending on how the day goes.

Again, thank you to everyone for offers of help and support.  I'm as calm as I am because his injuries could have been so much worse, and I'm thankful that he will prevail. 

The Case of the Missing Bike

It all started on Tuesday, August 3rd. I left work at 4:30, eager to ride my bike to Weight Watchers and then get home to my family. As I headed for the bike rack, I noticed that something was missing. You guessed it: my bike. SOMEONE STOLE MY BIKE!!! In the middle of the day, no less. I was so mad I literally stomped over to the security office to report it missing. They said that they would file a report with Moorhead PD. I felt pretty violated.


After my meeting, I walked home, and when I got to the driveway, Craig asked me where my bike was. When I told him the story, he looked at me and said, "I KNEW you wouldn't lock your bike up correctly". That comment was just enough to send me over the edge. I went from mad to steaming mad.


Days go by. Friday morning, I wake up feeling like someone had stabbed me in the chest. I went to work anyway, figuring that it was Friday and soon, I'd be able to rest. At 9am, my two bosses lectured me about taking care of myself, while shoving me out the door with commands to go to the doctor. If I wouldn't have acquiesced, I think President Edna herself would have handcuffed me and taken me in. Anyway, I did as told and was diagnosed with bronchitis. I left the clinic with intentions to sleep the rest of the day away.

Ten minutes after I returned from the clinic, the office calls. "So much for rest", I thought. But it turned out to be good news: my bike had been recovered! A detective with the Fargo Police Department found my treasured Trek 3400 in Fargo at a pawn shop. The men who cut the lock (yes, cut the lock, Craig) were arrested on felony charges due to the value of the bike. It turned out that the morons had stolen a total of 14 bikes all over the city, and were pawning them for drug money. The best part? Craig finally believed that it wasn't my fault. Sheesh. I wonder if I'll always have to get the police involved to prove myself?

As I write this, my bike is safely stowed in our garage. Until I can get a U-lock, that's where it will stay. I'm not taking any more chances.

Easter 2010

Christ is risen! How cool is that? God bless us all!

Murray and I took a trip to the emergency room this evening. I attempted to take him to the walk-in clinic, but they were closed, so to the e.r. we went. Three hours, two breathing treatments and a dose of steroids and we are finally at home. I know that croup is not as scary as a person might think, but to me it's horrific. I remained calm on the outside, but inside, my heart was breaking. He was terrified - I had to use physical force to hold him down during the breathing treatments - absolutely nothing would soothe him. The telemetry didn't help; the wires made his anxiety sky-rocket. Murray's tearful and downright demanding requests were as follows: "All done?" "Go home?" and "Croy's (Troy's) House?" (sorry, Stef) over, and over, and over. Finally, I promised him we would call Troy when we got home (which we did) and by the time the doctor checked in on us at 8:00, we were equipped with enough stickers to last us for several years. Murray wanted to go home so badly. I explained over and over that we would go home and be "all done" when the doctor said it was ok. After I repeated this for several hours, he suddenly stopped crying, put on his best "get me the heck out of here" look and shouted, "DOCTOR, DOCTOR!" To his credit, it worked. The doctor immediately responded and laughed, saying that he had never been summoned by a two-year-old, and that it was a good sign that he was good to go. Honestly, the child never ceases to amaze me. Now we are watching Curious George and getting ready for bed (better late than never) and I'm praying that we won't have to go in again for another treatment (I was warned that this is a possiblity).

Aside from the drama tonight, we had the best Easter. I was disappointed when my dad couldn't make it on Friday due to the huge storm west of Bismarck, but he surprised us all by showing up late Saturday afternoon. The power lines where he lives were down (still are and will be for the better part of a week) so he couldn't even get fuel until the generator arrived at the local gas station. Anyway, his visit was way too short, but wonderful. Today was so wonderful; we spent time with more family and I can now retire on Murray's earnings from his Easer egg hunt (pictures to follow soon). I swear he made more money today than I do in a week.

I'm off to bed, although not necessarily to sleep. Murray will take Craig's spot in the bed, and even though we have a king-size, I know that I will wake up with bruised ribs. Nala will join us until she gets too hot and I make her get off the bed, Rudy will go back and forth (alternatly doing security duty and comfort Marie duty) and the cat will sleep wherever he darn well pleases, making it impossible to get away from the two-year-old iron feet. But you know what? I wouldn't have it any other way. Life is good.

Hope you had a blessed Easter.

Eye-YI-YI

Is that how you spell that?????

I am completely out of the loop, too tired to think, much less write, so please bear with me.

Quick catch up: Overtime, strep throat (me last week), more overtime, Murray sick (last week), Craig misses work and volunteer activities due to Murray being sick, I work overtime on the weekend, all is well. So we think. Murray gets sick again yesterday, I'm still working my tail off so Craig can't work, now Craig is sick and I feel like a lot of dirt has hit the fan. There are a hundred other things that I am praying for and worrying about, but it's hard to get out of the box when all I can do is run, take care of sicklings, including me; run, run, work, work, and never mind anything to do with our home chores. Honestly, "Little Miss Picky" has done a complete one-eighty - I can't keep up and if you come to our house, well, so be it if it's a huge mess.

Now that I have THAT off my chest, I will tell you that I am quite happy. I love, love, love my job - although it's bad timing for me to be working so much - but some things I can do at home (said things I'm doing now, but have taken a break to post). I'm still hoping that this will turn into something permanant. GPIM is just that fantastic. I love what we do, who we do it for, and even the everyday "drudgery".

That said, I'm off to see if DH needs more ibufrofen, water or cough drops. After that, I will check Murray's temp, give myself another dose of antibiotics and ibuprofen, finish a bit more work and FINALLY, hit the hay. Tomorrow begins our billing cycle, so the more I accomplish at home, the less stressed I will be in the morning (one can dream, but still, I love it).

Please, keep reading. I promise to post more when I can. Thanks for your loyalty.
God Bless you this Easter/Passover,
Marie

Breaking the Silence

I apologize for my silence lately. I am on day seven of a cold that I can't seem to shake. When one can hardly move, creativity and the desire to write leaves one's brain. It was only this morning while preparing for Mass that I was "writing in my head" again. With that, I knew it was time to post once again and get back on track.

I still feel awful and am wondering how long this will last. I can't taste or smell a thing and haven't been able to since Monday. I even attended a gourmet food and wine dinner and while I enjoyed the company of my "date" Rose, she had to describe the aromas and taste of the food and the wine that accompanied each course.

There is so much I want to write regarding our big adventure to Emilie Lemmon's gathering, but before I do so, I need to catch up on Roxane's posts. We experienced a celebration that I'm not sure how to put into words, but if you are curious before I can write more, check out Roxane's post from the last week. I'm positive that she can describe the events more eloquently than I can. That being said, I met some wonderful new friends (God bless Emilie for bringing us together) and was even able to experience Solemn (or High) Mass at the Cathedral of St. Paul, which is located next door to The Catholic Spirit, where Emilie worked, as well as our new friend Christina.

The saddest part of this journey that we took together is that my camera wasn't working, so again, for pictures, check out Roxane's site.

I'm going to cut this post short because I'm still under the weather, but know that I will be back tomorrow with more. In the mean time, GO VIKES!

Driving Miss M.

I did it. Drove on 35w that is. All by myself, except for my good friend Tom Tom. It was kind of a mistake, but none the less, I managed to cruise my way to Super Target in the middle of rush hour. I even had to stop at one of those "one car on green lights". I am super proud of myself. I know it sounds silly to all of you who drive in heavy traffic on a regular basis, but keep in mind that I've been terrified of driving on the interstate (even in Fargo) since I crashed my father-in-law's truck on the the BOD (bridge of death - I94 west-bound from Moorhead to Fargo). So I'm feeling pretty darn good right now and even asked Craig if I can drive tomorrow while we visit friends before I check into the next hotel for the second leg of my adventure.

Speaking of hotels, we had a bit of trouble last night. We were settled in for the night; Murray was asleep and Craig and I were having a nightcap. When I went into the bathroom, I was accosted by an extremely potent aroma (not what you might be thinking). It almost smelled like lighter fluid. Craig went in check it out. I certainly wasn't over-reacting (which I tend to do). We called the front desk, who sent maintenance to our room and his response was, "Well, I don't know where the smell would be coming from." With that, he left. The odor kept getting stronger and there was no way we were going to sleep in 407, so the front desk moved us to another room. We had to re-pack everything, move a sleeping Murray and his pack and play, and then unpack everything again. I love this hotel, but I'm getting a bit frustrated. When Craig and I stayed here in December, the front desk gave someone else a key to our room, and they walked in while I was in the room. They did give us free breakfast coupons, so I suppose I can't complain. Anyway, that was the Beckerleg drama for the night.

My big sister from another mother came over to visit us today. Tricia used to be a lifeguard and swim teacher, so she taught Murray and I some basic things about learning to swim. She is absolutely wonderful with children, and well, I guess just wonderful in general. I am thrilled that we were able to connect again. We spent about two hours in the pool until Murray decided it was time for lunch. Thanks Tricia!

Craig is sick and feeling pretty down. He suffered through his meetings today and after my run to Target for Sudafed, he's resting in bed. I feel so bad for him; he sounds awful. Tomorrow he has to go home by himself with Murray, so if he's still ill, he'll have to find someone to take Murray.

I'm off to take Murray to the pool one more time before bed. Craig will have some quiet time, and little one can burn off some energy.

"I Fall Down Couch"

To the contest winners: Your prizes have been mailed and you should receive them tomorrow. I apologize for the wait - it's been a bit crazy around here.

I had a bit of a medical scare over the weekend, and am pleased to report that it turned out to be an infection and not something more serious. I can't tell you how relieved I am and have said many thank you prayers. Now it's just a matter of the antibiotics to kick in and I should be back to my old self.

Murray update: We are constantly amazed at how much he's learning. Everyday it's something new. Lately, we are thrilled that he is using two and three-word phrases. Yesterday, for example:
Me: "Please sit on your bottom, or you will fall off the couch."
Murray: "NOOOOO!"
Three seconds later, Murray responds: "I fall down couch". Hysterical laughter and giggling follows.

I just love this new form of communication. Now, if we could just break him of the whining habit. . .

I have a phone interview this morning, for a position that I'm extremely excited about. I won't say more until I know more myself, but some prayers would be appreciated.

Brace yourself for the snow, soon we'll be shoveling. . .again. At least it's good exercise!

Croup, Be Gone!

I stood in front of the medicine cabinet this morning, toothbrush in hand, not remembering why I opened it in the first place. It took me about 30 seconds to remember that I was going to brush my teeth and for that I needed the toothpaste. That's when I realized that I'm sleep-deprived.

Murray was diagnosed with croup on Tuesday. He slept peacefully that night, thanks to a steroid that he took at the doctor's office. Even so, Craig and I were awake every hour or so checking on him. Last night was a completely different story. To make a long story short, Craig and I each took a couch in the living room and Murray slept in the recliner; Shark Tales was on repeat and muted. This was the only way we could get him to calm down enough to at least doze for an hour or so at a time. Craig took him to the doctor again this morning. He received another dose of steroids and we are under strict instructions not to let him get riled up. In a toddlers' world, this means he pretty much gets whatever he wants; for the time being anyway! Unfortunately, he didn't get to wear his costume to daycare today and celebrate Halloween with his "frens". We have cool mist humidifiers running throughout the house, we've run out of hot water in the bathroom several times, given him several glasses of warm juice, and even stuck his head in front of the open freezer. Poor Craig; he can't leave Murray for a second or he starts to wail. I'm sure he's ready to catch up on some sleep.

It could be worse. It's not the flu and we are thanking God for that. I remember that last year it took Murray several days to get over the croup. We'll just wait it out.

One of my very favorite charities has always been the Meritcare Children's Hospital. As most of you know, the doctors and nurses in the Neo-Nicu saved our nephew's life. He's almost 2 years old now and doing just beautifully! Anyway, in addition to this wonderful cause, I've decided to join the March of Dimes Jail and Bail fundraiser this year. If you didn't receive an email from me, check out my website: http://jailandbail.marchofdimes.com/beckerleg My goal is to raise $750.00 by November 17th. If you are able to help, any amount would be greatly appreciated. Your donations are completely tax deductible - contact me for a receipt for your records.

Have a safe and fun Halloween.

Polly Want a Cracker or *#*&#&****?

I haven't made an effort to sit down and write for several days. I have been tackling some personal issues which have zapped my energy on a regular basis. I'll spare you the details, but just know that I'm back with bells on.

That said, we've been spending a lot of family time together whenever possible. Craig is traveling so much these days that we try to take advantage of every moment we can. Since my last post, we've discovered that we don't have a toddler - we have a myna bird (do myna birds speak? Maybe I mean a parrot). Everything, and I mean everything we say and do is repeated. Anyone who spends time with children will understand exactly what I'm talking about. We've come to the realization that every action and every word counts. What Murray doesn't mimic immediately is stored in his brain and haunts us later. When we thought that we knew this day was coming, we had no idea what we were in for. I still cringe every time he says the word "truck". You can imagine why. When Craig begins to yell at yet another stupid driver (he is the only decent driver on any road in the lower 48, any passenger of his would derive), he stops himself abruptly and out comes some hilarious mumbo jumbo under his breath. I would translate it for you, but it's not appropriate for any age. Anyway, we're learning right along side Mur-man the do's and don't's of good manners. And we thought we were well-behaved!

I am anxiously awaiting the delivery of my dad's new pup on Saturday. My new "sister" will be seven weeks old, and is already paper trained, as well as doing very well "going" outside. We will have her for a week, and then my dad will come to take her permanently. I will post pictures as soon as she's in our arms.

Find some sunshine today. If it's not outside, check your heart.
Peace out.

Addendum to "Let's Talk Seriously"

A couple of more things to preach: if you need to sneeze or cough, use your sleeve. Also, if you use a Kleenex to blow your nose, wash your hands immediately after. None of us want to get sick, so if we try to make these ideas a habit, we can avoid the spread of very serious disease.

On that note, I promise to post something a bit more positive tomorrow. I am not a health care expert by any means, but I have done the research. I will stop sounding like a know it all and hope that my point gets across.

Stay tuned. . .