So, I have not posted in forever, and I am not really sure anyone even missed it! But, I feel the need to write today. 2011! It's here. So much to look forward to this year. But, first a little recap on 2010...
1. Still no cure for CF, but we are getting much much closer. There are lots of trials taking place that are very promising.
2. In May, we lost my beautiful Aunt Dee. Jen, Dad, Doug and I were able to fly down and be with her and the rest of the family to say goodbye. She was an amazing women who we miss. Her laugh was infectious and her love for her family so strong. Cancer sucks!
3. 4th grade! I cannot believe my little ladies are in 4th grade.
4. In November, my sister gave birth to Brandon and Avery! We love them so much and are so happy they are here and healthy. Bethany had a rough time of it...but all is well.
5. Thumb injuries. UGH! Both my sister and I had similar thumb injuries and are still recovering. She has surgery...luckily I did not. Let's be more careful in 2011.
6. New job. I am very excited about my new opportunity at Nationwide. It is just what I was looking for!
7. Health! We had a year of good health in our family!
8. The Lake! Thank GOD for the lake - we spent lots of time there this past summer, boating, tubing, laying in the hammock and laughing with family! Jim and Doug never let us down with their antics!
9. Tooth fairy. I think that the tooth fairy visited our family 20 times this past year. I do not know how the girls eat a thing.
10. Cell phones. I broke down and went against everything I said. They have them, love them and the excitement in their faces on Christmas morning was 100% worth it!
On to 2011...
1. So it started with a vicious attack from a hornet in the wee hours of Jan. 1. Who gets stung in January? I do, that's who! I hope that was not a bad sign...maybe a sign of good luck?
2. Double digits! The girls are 10! I have nothing more to say.
3. Trips! So many to look forward to! February - Florida with my sister, March - Florida with the family, April - Minneapolis for work, May - San Diego with Doug, July - Emeral Isle! What a fun year is planned!
4. Family! I am hoping to see lots of our family this year. Last year we all got very busy and did not see each other nearly enough.
5. Friends! I am going to make more time for my friends. They are so important to me and I do not want them to EVER think that I take any of them for granted. My actions need to show that. I am looking forward to a great year with friends!
6. CF - Maybe this year?
7. 40
8. Fitness and health! Off to a great start!
8. Sinuses! Poor little Alli is having surgery. But the good news is, she should feel so much better!
9. Abbi and Alli - more time doing quality things together!
10. (I am leaving this one open-ended...I love to be surprised!)
One last thing...I am going to try and keep this blog up. It is a good way to keep my memories...since I am terrible about baby books and scrap booking!
Happy 2011 to all and to all a good day!
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Celebrating 10 Years of Team Alison
Take a breath...a really deep one...it feels great doesn't it?
Now, get a straw, put that between your lips and take that deep breath one more time. Doesn't feel as good does it? Now, imagine that is how you take every breath...because you have Cystic Fibrosis.
Our nine year old daughter Alison, has this devastating genetic disease. On January 6, 2001, at just 1 day old, Alison was diagnosed with CF. She spent 116 days at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. It was so hard being told that all was not right, but with one look at our little girl we knew we could fight this and win!
There is STILL no cure for CF, the life expectancy for those with CF continues to climb to over age 37. This phenomenal progress is a direct result of fund raising efforts that have met the tremendous cost of medical research.
We invite you to join us in the annual Great Strides walk for CF. Alison and all of us have walked every year since she was born - 10 YEARS -...and we won't stop until CF stands for Cure Found!
If you cannot walk with us, we hope that you will consider making a donation to Team Alison.
Making a donation is easy and secure! Just click the "Click to Donate" button on the Team Alison page at cff.org/greatstrides to make a donation that will be credited to my team. Any amount you can donate is greatly appreciated!
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a devastating genetic disease that affects tens of thousands of children and young adults in the United States. Research and care supported by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is making a huge difference in extending the quality of life for those with CF. However, we continue to lose precious lives to CF every day. That's why your help is needed now more than ever to ensure that a cure is found sooner - rather than later. To learn more about CF and the CF Foundation, visit www.cff.org.
Together, we can make a difference in Alison's life and the lives of those with CF! Thank you for supporting the mission of the CF Foundation and GREAT STRIDES!
Now, get a straw, put that between your lips and take that deep breath one more time. Doesn't feel as good does it? Now, imagine that is how you take every breath...because you have Cystic Fibrosis.
Our nine year old daughter Alison, has this devastating genetic disease. On January 6, 2001, at just 1 day old, Alison was diagnosed with CF. She spent 116 days at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. It was so hard being told that all was not right, but with one look at our little girl we knew we could fight this and win!
There is STILL no cure for CF, the life expectancy for those with CF continues to climb to over age 37. This phenomenal progress is a direct result of fund raising efforts that have met the tremendous cost of medical research.
We invite you to join us in the annual Great Strides walk for CF. Alison and all of us have walked every year since she was born - 10 YEARS -...and we won't stop until CF stands for Cure Found!
If you cannot walk with us, we hope that you will consider making a donation to Team Alison.
Making a donation is easy and secure! Just click the "Click to Donate" button on the Team Alison page at cff.org/greatstrides to make a donation that will be credited to my team. Any amount you can donate is greatly appreciated!
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a devastating genetic disease that affects tens of thousands of children and young adults in the United States. Research and care supported by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is making a huge difference in extending the quality of life for those with CF. However, we continue to lose precious lives to CF every day. That's why your help is needed now more than ever to ensure that a cure is found sooner - rather than later. To learn more about CF and the CF Foundation, visit www.cff.org.
Together, we can make a difference in Alison's life and the lives of those with CF! Thank you for supporting the mission of the CF Foundation and GREAT STRIDES!
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Our Cystic Life!
Alison has a clinic appt. this week, so I wanted to quickly give our family and friends an update to the Cystic part of our life.
She had PFT's, her last one was in July. Her FEV1 was 112% predicted, which is better than normal. FEV1 is the amount of air that can be forcibly exhaled from the lungs during the 1st second of spirometry. Her FEV1/FVC was 135% predicted. She is a rockstar!
However, her weight continues to be an issue. She only gained 1 pound since November, and she grew lots taller. So, that means her BMI is dangerously low. She is teeny. I saw her in her bathing suit at the Y last night and I just wanted to cry. She does not have the "bulk" to fight an infection if she gets one. That is what happened 2 years ago and resulted in her lung surgery. Even though her PFT's are great, which they would be if the diseased portion of the lung shuts down, like last time and isn't measured. That part of the lung just doesn't get measured, so its like its not even there and the PFT's measure the healthy working portion.
That means it is so important to try and figure out how to get her gain some weight. We do not want to end up in the hospital this spring! We are not afraid to resort to bribery!
Her lungs sounded clear, and she learned a new way to cough after chest therapy. She is expelling some mucus with this new coughing, so we will keep it up. Unfortunately it really wears her out. She is so good at hiding how she is affected by her cystic life. She plays hard all day, but boy does she crash at night! And all these treatments burn calories. How on earth can we get her to eat a 3000/day calorie diet?
I asked if we should cut back on activities cause of burning calories, but they said no. Her dancing is really good for her, and they were thrilled to learn that she is running. Running can really rattle things up in her lungs and help her expel the crap! She will start tumbling next week. She can't wait!
We also visited the dentist, no cavities for her, but her teeth continue to yellow from all her meds. I feel so bad for her cause kids can be so cruel! The doc said we could try the white strips on her but that she is just too young for bleaching. Just one more thing this kiddo deals with.
That's all for now! Thank you for all the support and prayers!
Great Strides is just around the corner and the Wine event is even closer!
She had PFT's, her last one was in July. Her FEV1 was 112% predicted, which is better than normal. FEV1 is the amount of air that can be forcibly exhaled from the lungs during the 1st second of spirometry. Her FEV1/FVC was 135% predicted. She is a rockstar!
However, her weight continues to be an issue. She only gained 1 pound since November, and she grew lots taller. So, that means her BMI is dangerously low. She is teeny. I saw her in her bathing suit at the Y last night and I just wanted to cry. She does not have the "bulk" to fight an infection if she gets one. That is what happened 2 years ago and resulted in her lung surgery. Even though her PFT's are great, which they would be if the diseased portion of the lung shuts down, like last time and isn't measured. That part of the lung just doesn't get measured, so its like its not even there and the PFT's measure the healthy working portion.
That means it is so important to try and figure out how to get her gain some weight. We do not want to end up in the hospital this spring! We are not afraid to resort to bribery!
Her lungs sounded clear, and she learned a new way to cough after chest therapy. She is expelling some mucus with this new coughing, so we will keep it up. Unfortunately it really wears her out. She is so good at hiding how she is affected by her cystic life. She plays hard all day, but boy does she crash at night! And all these treatments burn calories. How on earth can we get her to eat a 3000/day calorie diet?
I asked if we should cut back on activities cause of burning calories, but they said no. Her dancing is really good for her, and they were thrilled to learn that she is running. Running can really rattle things up in her lungs and help her expel the crap! She will start tumbling next week. She can't wait!
We also visited the dentist, no cavities for her, but her teeth continue to yellow from all her meds. I feel so bad for her cause kids can be so cruel! The doc said we could try the white strips on her but that she is just too young for bleaching. Just one more thing this kiddo deals with.
That's all for now! Thank you for all the support and prayers!
Great Strides is just around the corner and the Wine event is even closer!
Monday, February 1, 2010
Great Strides 2010
Take a breath...a really deep one...it feels great doesn't it? Now, get a straw, put that between your lips and take that deep breath one more time. Doesn't feel as good does it? Now, imagine that is how you take every breath...because you have Cystic Fibrosis.
Our nine year old daughter Alison, has this devastating genetic disease. On January 6, 2001, at just 1 day old, Alison was diagnosed with CF. She spent 116 days at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. It was so hard being told that all was not right, but with one look at our little girl we knew we could fight this and win!
There is STILL no cure for CF, the life expectancy for those with CF continues to climb to over age 37. This phenomenal progress is a direct result of fund raising efforts that have met the tremendous cost of medical research.
We invite you to join us in the annual Great Strides walk for CF. Alison and all of us have walked every year since she was born...and we won't stop until CF stands for Cure Found!
If you cannot walk with us, we hope that you will consider making a donation to Team Alison.
Making a donation is easy and secure! Just click the "Click to Donate" button on this page to go to make a donation that will be credited to my team. Any amount you can donate is greatly appreciated!
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a devastating genetic disease that affects tens of thousands of children and young adults in the United States. Research and care supported by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is making a huge difference in extending the quality of life for those with CF. However, we continue to lose precious lives to CF every day. That's why your help is needed now more than ever to ensure that a cure is found sooner - rather than later.
To learn more about CF and the CF Foundation, visit www.cff.org.
Together, we can make a difference in Alison's life and the lives of those with CF! Thank you for supporting the mission of the CF Foundation and GREAT STRIDES!
Our nine year old daughter Alison, has this devastating genetic disease. On January 6, 2001, at just 1 day old, Alison was diagnosed with CF. She spent 116 days at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. It was so hard being told that all was not right, but with one look at our little girl we knew we could fight this and win!
There is STILL no cure for CF, the life expectancy for those with CF continues to climb to over age 37. This phenomenal progress is a direct result of fund raising efforts that have met the tremendous cost of medical research.
We invite you to join us in the annual Great Strides walk for CF. Alison and all of us have walked every year since she was born...and we won't stop until CF stands for Cure Found!
If you cannot walk with us, we hope that you will consider making a donation to Team Alison.
Making a donation is easy and secure! Just click the "Click to Donate" button on this page to go to make a donation that will be credited to my team. Any amount you can donate is greatly appreciated!
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a devastating genetic disease that affects tens of thousands of children and young adults in the United States. Research and care supported by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is making a huge difference in extending the quality of life for those with CF. However, we continue to lose precious lives to CF every day. That's why your help is needed now more than ever to ensure that a cure is found sooner - rather than later.
To learn more about CF and the CF Foundation, visit www.cff.org.
Together, we can make a difference in Alison's life and the lives of those with CF! Thank you for supporting the mission of the CF Foundation and GREAT STRIDES!
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Darby
We are so excited. We will be getting our new puppy in about 2 weeks. While it was so hard to day goodbye to Keegan, this puppy is good for us! Keegan was so sick towards the end, it was difficult for the girls to really understand.
Now, we will have Darby to love, snuggle and drive us crazy. This will be the girls first puppy!
More posts later to update you on Soccer, Dance and Cheerleading!
Make-a-Wish update to come soon! We are getting excited!
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
I should SO be in bed!
So...I'm up! Why? Don't know. Wish I was asleep. I have this problem about every 2 months or so, I just stop sleeping. I catch up...eventually.
Work is crazy (but I LOVE MY JOB), vacation is over, I am going camping this weekend, schools starts soon - HALLELUIAH!
So, the CF research is making milestones (www.cff.org), its hard to get hopeful because we just think about keeping Al healthy today. But, I have to admit its exciting and to think about a day without chest therapy, or breathing treatments - that's unbelievable for me and Doug, so I cannot even begin to think about what that might mean for Alison. She knows nothing else, it would change everything about her. I hope that she would stay strong, bull-headed (really, Jill?) and funny! Right? Will we know what to do without CF? (wishful thinking) I would hope so!
Abbi is becoming a young lady and I just don't know how to deal. She requires a LOT of attention. But I have to admit, I love to hang out with her. She is so curious and loving. She makes you feel good. Every morning after I am ready for work she will say, "Mommy, you look so pretty". How can you not have a good day after that?
OSU Footballs is just around the corner! YEAHHH!
The jewelry busines is slow, but fun. I have a huge party this week. 28 RSVP's - that is great.
Went to Rascal Flatts with Jodi, Becky and Heather (no, I have not turned country) and had so much fun. American Idol with Beth is in 2 weeks! Can't wait!
Good night!
Work is crazy (but I LOVE MY JOB), vacation is over, I am going camping this weekend, schools starts soon - HALLELUIAH!
So, the CF research is making milestones (www.cff.org), its hard to get hopeful because we just think about keeping Al healthy today. But, I have to admit its exciting and to think about a day without chest therapy, or breathing treatments - that's unbelievable for me and Doug, so I cannot even begin to think about what that might mean for Alison. She knows nothing else, it would change everything about her. I hope that she would stay strong, bull-headed (really, Jill?) and funny! Right? Will we know what to do without CF? (wishful thinking) I would hope so!
Abbi is becoming a young lady and I just don't know how to deal. She requires a LOT of attention. But I have to admit, I love to hang out with her. She is so curious and loving. She makes you feel good. Every morning after I am ready for work she will say, "Mommy, you look so pretty". How can you not have a good day after that?
OSU Footballs is just around the corner! YEAHHH!
The jewelry busines is slow, but fun. I have a huge party this week. 28 RSVP's - that is great.
Went to Rascal Flatts with Jodi, Becky and Heather (no, I have not turned country) and had so much fun. American Idol with Beth is in 2 weeks! Can't wait!
Good night!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
So...
Tonight I have something to say...surprise surprise...I am actually going to blog about what's in my head.
Here is what I don't know...
- if anyone even reads this blog...for real content
- what the future holds... (do any of us?)
- what will happen.. (if you read this and know me at all..you will know what I mean)
- CF??????
Here is what I do know...
- Emerald Isle makes all 4 of us so happy
- CF does not exist at Emerald Isle
- Uncle Jim is making me a drink
- I really do love my friends... and wish I was closer to them
- I did not have to do dishes tonight
- The 12 people here with me today are the most important people in my life.
- Doug loves me 100%
Here is reality...
I am getting way too deep
There is a thunderstorm tonight and I am scared
Did you know that I was scared of storms?????
Very scared??
I just act like I am not
I love my parents more than anything in the world.
My girls mean so much to me..but differEnt things...
They are #1
Abbi is life, she loves new things, she has hope and she trusts so much
Alison is faith...what else do say with a diagnosis like hers??? She is everything we all wish we had...no fear...live! And she is hilarious!!!! Really! She is damn funny!
My nieces...hope..trust..love
Zac...innocence and he loves me unconditionally!
Emerald Isle... 2009!
Wooooo, glad that is off my chest!
Here is what I don't know...
- if anyone even reads this blog...for real content
- what the future holds... (do any of us?)
- what will happen.. (if you read this and know me at all..you will know what I mean)
- CF??????
Here is what I do know...
- Emerald Isle makes all 4 of us so happy
- CF does not exist at Emerald Isle
- Uncle Jim is making me a drink
- I really do love my friends... and wish I was closer to them
- I did not have to do dishes tonight
- The 12 people here with me today are the most important people in my life.
- Doug loves me 100%
Here is reality...
I am getting way too deep
There is a thunderstorm tonight and I am scared
Did you know that I was scared of storms?????
Very scared??
I just act like I am not
I love my parents more than anything in the world.
My girls mean so much to me..but differEnt things...
They are #1
Abbi is life, she loves new things, she has hope and she trusts so much
Alison is faith...what else do say with a diagnosis like hers??? She is everything we all wish we had...no fear...live! And she is hilarious!!!! Really! She is damn funny!
My nieces...hope..trust..love
Zac...innocence and he loves me unconditionally!
Emerald Isle... 2009!
Wooooo, glad that is off my chest!
Alison can swim!
And swim well. Who knew? She probably did and just wasn't telling. She has become quite the water bug...first in, last out! She is getting very brave in the ocean as well. She makes me very nervous. Not to mention the fact that Abbi take her boogie board and goes way out to the sand bar!
Having fun in EI!
Having fun in EI!
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Emerald Isle 2009...We're here!
Ahhhhhh (big sigh indicating relaxation). We have arrived to our happy place! First, I have to tell you how proud I am of our daughters. We left Friday am around 9:00am and made it all the way to the Tamarac service plaza in WV without once stop, complaint, or whining! We had lunch and then made it all the way to Raleigh, NC without stopping! I couldn't believe it! Those kids must take after my sisters and I in the car. We were raised to have bladders like a steel trap - and to know that you only stop for gas!
We spent the night in Raleigh, and left for EI again around 9:00am. And made it all the way with one brief potty break at the request of the 13 year old. The little ones could have help strong!
Our new beach house rocks! We upgraded this year since the kids are getting older and we like to separate the female siblings...less fighting! Every couple has their own room with a private bath, the kids rooms even have their own bathrooms! I will have to post some pics. The rest of the house is awesome and it even has a pool and an elevator, which the kids are loving! It was great after going to the Food "Loin" (family joke) and shopping for 13 people, we just loaded the groceries into the elevator and sent them up to the 3 rd floor kitchen!
Anyway, time to go have more coffee and stare at the ocean...I do a lot of that here. Almost done with book number 1...Certain Girls by Jennifer Weiner...and I drove the whole way here, so I have already done much reading in the few hours we have been here!
Have a great week!
We spent the night in Raleigh, and left for EI again around 9:00am. And made it all the way with one brief potty break at the request of the 13 year old. The little ones could have help strong!
Our new beach house rocks! We upgraded this year since the kids are getting older and we like to separate the female siblings...less fighting! Every couple has their own room with a private bath, the kids rooms even have their own bathrooms! I will have to post some pics. The rest of the house is awesome and it even has a pool and an elevator, which the kids are loving! It was great after going to the Food "Loin" (family joke) and shopping for 13 people, we just loaded the groceries into the elevator and sent them up to the 3 rd floor kitchen!
Anyway, time to go have more coffee and stare at the ocean...I do a lot of that here. Almost done with book number 1...Certain Girls by Jennifer Weiner...and I drove the whole way here, so I have already done much reading in the few hours we have been here!
Have a great week!
Thursday, May 14, 2009
"Jacked up"
Another angelic moment from Alison...
Last night she was sitting in her "vest chair" AKA the chair she sits in while doing treatments...and she was wiggling around and mumbling something.
I say, "Al, what did you say?".
She mumbles again...
So, I mute the TV and say "What?".
She says as loud as can be, "Mom, ever since I got this damn cold, I'm all Jacked Up"
She then burst into tears, I start laughing, and Doug just stands there with his jaw on the floor.
And, we spend the next 20 minutes teaching her how to blow out the clogged side of her nose, while plugging the other side, so she will not be "jacked up" anymore.
I guess I say "jacked up" a little too often.
Ahhh...my delicate little flower.
Last night she was sitting in her "vest chair" AKA the chair she sits in while doing treatments...and she was wiggling around and mumbling something.
I say, "Al, what did you say?".
She mumbles again...
So, I mute the TV and say "What?".
She says as loud as can be, "Mom, ever since I got this damn cold, I'm all Jacked Up"
She then burst into tears, I start laughing, and Doug just stands there with his jaw on the floor.
And, we spend the next 20 minutes teaching her how to blow out the clogged side of her nose, while plugging the other side, so she will not be "jacked up" anymore.
I guess I say "jacked up" a little too often.
Ahhh...my delicate little flower.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
One Year Ago Today
Hard to believe that one year ago today was Alison's lung surgery. This time last year we were sitting in the waiting room with family and our good friend Jodi, while the amazing Doctors at Nationwide Children's Hospital took care of our girl.
She is doing so well. Thank you to our family and friends for being so supportive time and time again, and standing beside us while we fight this nasty disease!
Have a wonderful May 13th!
This photo was take before her dance recital last year...just 25 days post lung operation.
She is doing so well. Thank you to our family and friends for being so supportive time and time again, and standing beside us while we fight this nasty disease!
Have a wonderful May 13th!
This photo was take before her dance recital last year...just 25 days post lung operation.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Alison and her questions...
So, last night Alison asked me, "Mommy what does slutty mean?''. I say, "where did you hear that?". She says, "Ross told Rachel, her shirt was slutty". I say, "That was a mean thing he said and I don't ever want to hear you say that word again. "
Silence for about 90 seconds....
Then...
"But, what does it mean?"
"goodnight Alison!"
That is Alison ...my little delicate flower...HA!
Silence for about 90 seconds....
Then...
"But, what does it mean?"
"goodnight Alison!"
That is Alison ...my little delicate flower...HA!
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Surprises...
So, life - especially the kids in your life, can surprise you all the time. They can make you proud one moment - then do and say the most embarrassing things the next...for instance,
Doug and I are sitting in Alison's conference with her teacher. She is showing us samples of Alison's writing and how she really needs to do more story development, but apparently she is very good at details. Like..."I heard the door to the garage open and I thought my Dad was going out to get more beer..." And it goes on from there, I wanted the chair to swallow me up, I needed some invisible magic dust or something. Alison, who cannot remember to turn in her reading log, can somehow manage to work into her story at school, daddy's beer habits. Nice!
Or, when we are at clinic with Dr. Shell, she will make sure he knows that she farts a lot, but her daddy farts a lot more, and she really believes that Mommy and Abbi never really fart. COME ON!
I mean this is what I deal with from her on a regular basis, she is hilarious, embarrassing, and stubborn. We never know what will come out of that child's mouth. And we love that about her.
Then there is Abbi...she about the sweetest kiddo you will meet!
Last night, we were making her Valentine's box, and all the sudden I realize she is making 2. I ask, "Abs, why are you making 2 of these?" Her reply, "we have a new student starting in our class tomorrow, and she might not know to make a Valentime's (this is how she says it) box, so I am making one for her" And she just carried on with her business.
I have to say, it left a tear in my eye.
Life is full of surprises, it is nice to know some things in my life I can count on:
a great laugh from Al, and the sweetest acts of kindness from Ab.
Doug and I are sitting in Alison's conference with her teacher. She is showing us samples of Alison's writing and how she really needs to do more story development, but apparently she is very good at details. Like..."I heard the door to the garage open and I thought my Dad was going out to get more beer..." And it goes on from there, I wanted the chair to swallow me up, I needed some invisible magic dust or something. Alison, who cannot remember to turn in her reading log, can somehow manage to work into her story at school, daddy's beer habits. Nice!
Or, when we are at clinic with Dr. Shell, she will make sure he knows that she farts a lot, but her daddy farts a lot more, and she really believes that Mommy and Abbi never really fart. COME ON!
I mean this is what I deal with from her on a regular basis, she is hilarious, embarrassing, and stubborn. We never know what will come out of that child's mouth. And we love that about her.
Then there is Abbi...she about the sweetest kiddo you will meet!
Last night, we were making her Valentine's box, and all the sudden I realize she is making 2. I ask, "Abs, why are you making 2 of these?" Her reply, "we have a new student starting in our class tomorrow, and she might not know to make a Valentime's (this is how she says it) box, so I am making one for her" And she just carried on with her business.
I have to say, it left a tear in my eye.
Life is full of surprises, it is nice to know some things in my life I can count on:
a great laugh from Al, and the sweetest acts of kindness from Ab.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Make-a-Wish Update
First, let me say that I have been a huge slacker, and have not posted since Christmas Eve. So a quick recap, Christmas was great, loved the time with my family, spent lots of time in jammies, my husband rocks and gave me a beautiful and unexpected gift, and watching my children enjoy Christmas was the best...
So........we talked to the Make-a-Wish people yesterday. And, they are really going to be able to put together a "dance on Broadway" experience for Al. I am so surprised and excited for her that I can hardly contain myself. But...I will have to. It looks like it will probably be 6 months till its a reality. She is currently number 3 in line for a Broadway wish. So, unless something changes with her health...which I might say we pray does NOT happen...we will just sit tight till we get more info.
So........we talked to the Make-a-Wish people yesterday. And, they are really going to be able to put together a "dance on Broadway" experience for Al. I am so surprised and excited for her that I can hardly contain myself. But...I will have to. It looks like it will probably be 6 months till its a reality. She is currently number 3 in line for a Broadway wish. So, unless something changes with her health...which I might say we pray does NOT happen...we will just sit tight till we get more info.
Please pray for a healthy 2009. We are just about 1 year out from the time last year when she got sick.
Lately the phrase around our house is, "I hate CF!"
But, on to more happy thoughts...
Dance competitions are coming up! And Al's class is really getting good! I can't wait for everyone to see all the hard work! She is lovin it!
Abbi is really excelling in school, particularly Math. Go figure. I can barely help with the 2nd grade math work, but thank god she takes after her father in this area. He is a genius with this stuff. And, she is back in the pool working hard to make that swim team this year.
Keegan, (our boy...the dog) is still in a decline. His shakes are worse, he cries a lot, but will still get up with me in the am, greets me at the door, and goes to bed with me at night. He is a great dog.
Signing off! Good night!
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Finally Ready!
We are finally ready for good ol' St. Nick. The stockings are hung by the chimney with care, the gifts are wrapped, the kids are excited, vacation has started, and even Doug seems to be filled with some holiday cheer....really he is.
Tree up...check!
Gifts wrapped...check!
Holiday dance recital a success...check!
Visit with Santa...check!
Christmas movies watched...check!
Bailey's ready for Christmas morning...oh yeah!
Outside lights still working...check!
Norad Santa Tracker online...check!
A Christmas Story marathon ready to start...check!
Excited to see your family and friends...YOU BET!
All the making for a good old fashioned Griswald family Christmas! All we need is a Cousin Eddy! We probably have a few of those around! This gonna be the hap hap happiest Christmas since Bing Crosby danced with Danny "effing" Kaye! (that is from Christmas Vacation if you didn't know...my FAVORITE Christmas movie)
Watch...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mk74WprmZxY
Here a few pics from our good ol fashioned Hile family Christmas...
From our family to yours:
Merry Christmas, stay safe, count your blessings and PEACE ON EARTH!!!!
Love,
Doug, Jill, Abigail and Alison
Tree up...check!
Gifts wrapped...check!
Holiday dance recital a success...check!
Visit with Santa...check!
Christmas movies watched...check!
Bailey's ready for Christmas morning...oh yeah!
Outside lights still working...check!
Norad Santa Tracker online...check!
A Christmas Story marathon ready to start...check!
Excited to see your family and friends...YOU BET!
All the making for a good old fashioned Griswald family Christmas! All we need is a Cousin Eddy! We probably have a few of those around! This gonna be the hap hap happiest Christmas since Bing Crosby danced with Danny "effing" Kaye! (that is from Christmas Vacation if you didn't know...my FAVORITE Christmas movie)
Watch...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mk74WprmZxY
Here a few pics from our good ol fashioned Hile family Christmas...
From our family to yours:
Merry Christmas, stay safe, count your blessings and PEACE ON EARTH!!!!
Love,
Doug, Jill, Abigail and Alison
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Make-A-Wish
Becky and Susie from Make-a-Wish came over last night and spent some time getting to know our family. They brought Alison and Abbi a little gift and a game for our whole family. Besides some boring but necessary paperwork, they spent their time getting Alison to dream big. She was hilarious.
I tell ya, Alison is one funny kid. She wished for the coolest and oddest things. Everything from dancing on Broadway to laying on the beach rocking out to AD/DC (her father's influence of course). We learned her favorite stores are Old Navy and Best Buy. And, that she apparently has a thing for Johnny Depp??? Who knew?
What a neat organization. They think of everything. They made Alison feel so special and made her illness seem secondary, when really they make every accommodation we could ever need. They included Abbi and made her a part of it also. After a year of lung infections, hospital visits, needles, surgery, IV's and more doctor's appointments than I ever thought one little girl could have in a year...I am so glad this is happening for her.
We should know about her wish in a couple weeks.
Rock on!
I tell ya, Alison is one funny kid. She wished for the coolest and oddest things. Everything from dancing on Broadway to laying on the beach rocking out to AD/DC (her father's influence of course). We learned her favorite stores are Old Navy and Best Buy. And, that she apparently has a thing for Johnny Depp??? Who knew?
What a neat organization. They think of everything. They made Alison feel so special and made her illness seem secondary, when really they make every accommodation we could ever need. They included Abbi and made her a part of it also. After a year of lung infections, hospital visits, needles, surgery, IV's and more doctor's appointments than I ever thought one little girl could have in a year...I am so glad this is happening for her.
We should know about her wish in a couple weeks.
Rock on!
Monday, December 15, 2008
Fa la la la la...la la la la!
I am all DONE shopping!!!! Wooowhoo!!!! Thanks to Sean and Kim who offered (their crazy) to take Abbi and Alison for a few hours on Sunday, Doug and I have completed all shopping, that includes, family, kids, teachers, nurse, co-workers, etc. etc.! We are done! Now the wrapping begins! Abbi and Alison will be having a few late evenings at Latchkey so mommy can have some wrapping time! I am so excited for some of our purchases this year. It will be hard to wait to Christmas morning.
Thank God for antibiotics, so that Alison was able to be in the general population by Saturday afternoon. She danced in her Holiday show, and was fabulous! She is a natural on stage.
Sweetfeet totally dominated in their game Saturday. Abbi played well and it was a shut-out, 9 - 0. These girls have really gelled as a team.
Doug is off to Washington DC on Wednesday and will not back till Friday. At least we don't have dance this week, so we can be close to home.
I got to spend the morning unpacking all the boxes that I packed on Friday. But, I am finally moved into my new office space. It is really nice and new. It overlooks the Arena and new baseball field. I have lots more room than before.
Tomorrow I am going to spend the afternoon at the Mid Ohio Foodbank, spreading Holiday cheer and doing some volunteer work. It should be fun.
Thank God for antibiotics, so that Alison was able to be in the general population by Saturday afternoon. She danced in her Holiday show, and was fabulous! She is a natural on stage.
Sweetfeet totally dominated in their game Saturday. Abbi played well and it was a shut-out, 9 - 0. These girls have really gelled as a team.
Doug is off to Washington DC on Wednesday and will not back till Friday. At least we don't have dance this week, so we can be close to home.
I got to spend the morning unpacking all the boxes that I packed on Friday. But, I am finally moved into my new office space. It is really nice and new. It overlooks the Arena and new baseball field. I have lots more room than before.
Tomorrow I am going to spend the afternoon at the Mid Ohio Foodbank, spreading Holiday cheer and doing some volunteer work. It should be fun.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Sisters...
Abbi was being so sweet to her sister tonight. Alison doesn't feel well, and Abbi was trying to make her smile. It made me think back to when they used to get along so much better, and NEVER fought. Check out this picture from 4 years ago...
Finally!
Monday night the volunteers from Make-a-Wish are coming over to begin the process to grant my baby girl her wish. She is so excited and has been very thoughtful about this. And, believe it or not, she is having trouble thinking selfishly. We thought that would be easy for her, but its not. She feels very special and thankful that she has this opportunity. Stay tuned for more about what little Al dreams up!
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
And...
Alison gained weight!!!! Not a ton, but she gained just over a pound. Dr. Shell was pleased. He said if she could gain a pound a month for a whole year, she could move out of the "RED" zone.
You would not believe what hard work it is to figure out what to give her and how often and will how much did she eat, etc, etc, etc.
It will be hard work, but I am hoping we can do it. She had a great appointment overall!
It was high time we have some good news around here. Yeah for Alli!!!!!
You would not believe what hard work it is to figure out what to give her and how often and will how much did she eat, etc, etc, etc.
It will be hard work, but I am hoping we can do it. She had a great appointment overall!
It was high time we have some good news around here. Yeah for Alli!!!!!
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