tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60539459415272453952024-03-13T03:09:34.963-07:00HOW TO BE A GOOD MOMMY WHEN YOU’RE SICK: A GUIDE TO MOTHERHOOD WITH CHRONIC ILLNESS Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.comBlogger31125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-76454080009043781322015-06-25T15:53:00.000-07:002015-06-25T15:53:36.562-07:00Join the conversation, please.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RAS-bAh25eU/VYwe-vTKKXI/AAAAAAAAA0s/hOl_C8XOw3c/s1600/What%2Bpic.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RAS-bAh25eU/VYwe-vTKKXI/AAAAAAAAA0s/hOl_C8XOw3c/s400/What%2Bpic.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">In </span><a href="http://www.chronicillnessandmotherhood.com/get-the-book.html" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">How to Be a Good Mommy When You're Sick: A Guide to Motherhood with Chronic Illness</a><span style="text-align: left;">, I wrote:</span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #242424; line-height: 24px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My mission is to find every possible tip and trick to make chronic illness and motherhood as joyful as healthy mothers who do not have to juggle medical issues as well as motherhood and careers or simply motherhood, a full time job in itself.</span></span></blockquote>
I have continually written about myself but know there are other moms and dads out there that have questions and concerns about specific problems or issues. I would love the opportunity to research these specific problems or issues and help connect you to the answers you need. Solutions are out there and if I don't have an answer myself, I will do the research and bring you some solutions.<br />
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Also, I know there are both moms and dads out there that have amazing tips and tricks to making parenting with chronic illness a bit easier so we can focus on the joy of parenting and I want to hear about these too.<br />
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I am asking you to join in the conversation and communicate with me however you feel most comfortable. Options for contacting or following me:<br />
<br />
Facebook comments<br />
Facebook messages<br />
Blog comments<br />
Contact form: <a href="http://www.chronicillnessandmotherhood.com/">http://www.chronicillnessandmotherhood.com/</a><br />
Instagram: @ekrgraves<br />
Twitter: @emilykrgraves<br />
<br />
I look forward to connecting as I feel there is strength and support in numbers!<br />
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<span style="color: #00b0f0; font-family: "Bradley Hand ITC"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Emily<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-67133836116826875762015-06-16T16:07:00.000-07:002015-06-16T16:07:19.840-07:00Saying No to “Woe is Me”<div style="text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">I</span> recently went for one of my infusions and started thinking
about how thankful I was that I remembered my earbuds. This routine of keeping earbuds with me as a
back-up plan for all appointments – especially long appointments – has had a very positive impact on my psyche . <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">G</span>etting sucked into the “woe is me” trap is really easy when
you spend much time at the doctor's office. It seems that everywhere I go
people are complaining, but the worst part for me is listening to people complain about my doctor. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A</span>t my last infusion, while in the waiting
room, before the earbuds went on, I found myself so frustrated that I announced
loudly that I really love my rheumatologist and think she is doing a fantastic
job. It is true that she is not meeting patients for social hour, but I would
much rather have a highly skilled doctor that does the research and makes informed
decisions than one who is worried about minute details of my social life.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">O</span>nce I made it back to the infusion room, the complaining
changed to “woe is me!” and I did everything to ignore it while being prepped for the infusion, but I honestly could not wait to settle down with my earbuds and watch a movie on
Netflix for the next few hours. One man was working himself up into a frenzy after
the IV was started but before any medication had been added – he told someone
with him that he was already starting to get a headache because he knows he
gets “so worked up about these things”. Then another man was having insurance
problems. This I can empathize with but for hours? Really? Enough focusing on the negative in my healing space, thank you!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">W</span>hile at other appointments over the years, my
experience is that people tend to compare problems and revel in the negative at
these types of appointments. And, don’t even get me started about nephrology!
My current nephrologist is awesome about managing time, but the nephrologist in
Georgia was one of eight in a group and really slow. So tons of people had tons of time
to sit around and play this endless “woe is me” competition.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">T</span>hose who don’t talk at infusions usually do a lot of
grunting and dramatic gestures with iPads and such. This strange negativity can easily suck anyone who spends a lot of time at the doctor's office into it because it's part of the culture
of being chronically ill. It's a culture that must be rebelled against actively.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">T</span>rying to focus on getting as healthy
as possible is important and staying positive is equally important. I do not
have it together every day but do think much of this behavior negatively
impacts people around us and I do not want to be the source of anything
negative.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">W</span>hat we say and think both out loud and to ourselves
reinforces how we feel and I think, how we react both physically and mentally
to situations and illness. I encourage you to work at being positive and when
possible, put on your earbuds and ignore those who are not. Saying no to the “woe
is me” mentality may make a huge difference in your life. I know it has made a
huge difference in mine! <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #5b9bd5; font-family: 'Bradley Hand ITC'; line-height: 107%;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Emily</span></b></i><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-44695679862381033642015-06-09T10:22:00.000-07:002015-06-09T10:22:25.553-07:00Of Roller Coasters, Kites, and Keeping the Main Thing the Main Thing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-24HnwS27hao/VXcLgrHX9aI/AAAAAAAAAy4/1DSjFPWMl5A/s1600/kite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-24HnwS27hao/VXcLgrHX9aI/AAAAAAAAAy4/1DSjFPWMl5A/s320/kite.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">[My son and his "girlfriend" (AH!) talk while their kite, far overhead, tugs at the edges of their perception.]</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></b></div>
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Does chronic illness consume too much of your life? At
times, it has in mine. I never consciously decided to let it take up more and more of my time and space, but it has happened. I've been on a monster roller coaster ride with RA that's lasted years. In the beginning, one biologic had me on “cruise control” for
years, clicking me slowly up the hill, higher and higher, as I enjoyed the view. Then came my very carefully planned pregnancy, and the ride began in earnest with a deathly plunge at bullet speed. If you have
read this blog before – or my book, you know instead of going into full remission
like many women with RA, I got really sick. RA essentially shut down my kidneys, and I have been fighting ever since. Almost 4 ½ years later, I am finally off the roller coast from Hell, and happy to be on much more manageable merry-go-round of relatively benign daily aches and pains. I think recent good fortune is the result of time and
finding the right healthcare professionals to join my team. Working together with my doctors and loved ones, I
have been able to become far more functional and rejoin society (for a lack of
better description) as a mom, wife, and professional. Prednisone face be gone!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Undoubtedly, some of the things I have to do to take care of myself take time – for example, my infusions, but other things I do are pretty
normal for people who just want to be healthy. Watching what I eat, yoga,
trying to stay active, therapeutic massage, stress management, etc. I think disconnecting these things to
being sick is really important because it shifts the focus to being healthy. Healthy is the goal, the main thing. And as Stephen Covey, author of <i>Seven Habits of Highly Effective People</i>, says, "The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing." The important and sometimes really hard part for me is
making myself stick with these healthy routines so that I do not let RA sneak
in and start taking more and more space in my life. When you are busy with a
child (or children), it is really easy to put your personal needs aside because, instinctively and emotionally, children come first. But a question arises if you try to keep the main thing the main thing: <i>if you are not as healthy as
possible, are you able to give the children your best?</i> I think the answer(s) to this question form a good case for
quality verses quantity. <o:p></o:p></div>
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If you find yourself in a place where you feel “stuck”,
please know that I have been there and sometime go there if I am not diligent
and persistent in working to be as healthy as possible. Having not only support
at home but a health-driven medical team has made a tremendous difference in my
life. I encourage you to remember yourself and know that when you are at your
personal best, it is the best thing for your child or children. Being as healthy as possible must be the main thing. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Although you would never know it from the attention given to
the kite, my son and his girlfriend really wanted to fly a kite the other day. It turned that while the kite caught the wind and had a wild ride, the kids kept the main thing the main thing (each other). This is
also a good reminder for me. That kite is like my struggles with RA, and I can focus on it, or I can focus on being healthy. The kite may be tied around my wrist, but it's not the main thing. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #5b9bd5; font-family: 'Bradley Hand ITC'; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Emily</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-13278621666384844612015-05-29T18:02:00.000-07:002015-06-01T18:10:07.968-07:00A Normal Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YTpOrbnnFS8/VWikoavGl2I/AAAAAAAAAyM/6RTakjDAm5k/s1600/IMG_1915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YTpOrbnnFS8/VWikoavGl2I/AAAAAAAAAyM/6RTakjDAm5k/s320/IMG_1915.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Today
was the most "normal" feeling day I have had in such a long time. So
long that I can't remember. I am always working on improving my endurance,
eating for health, taking my medicine while fighting to stay off prednisone,
etc. and today it seemed that everything was working. Will's friend came over
at 8:30 and we played until 2:00 - outside, inside baking, painting, just
playing. Then, Will and I hung out until Rob came home and I grilled shrimp.
Not once today did I have to not do something because some piece of me hurt or
was swollen or too tired. Yay!</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">On a funny note - in
the background today:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ahhh - our air
conditioner died - I mean REALLY. So we had a repair man here installing a new
motor and other small parts to find out that our compressor needed replaced -
totally dead and that has to be ordered. I am told to hope for Monday. Of
course, we are planning on being out of town Monday but since we live in a
small town and a crew has to come in from out of town, I am told to just figure
it out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fine - done...thank
you ADT for the ability to arm/disarm and unlock/lock our house with an iPad.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Next came the
rain....oh the rain. Now I love rain but when I don't know if I am standing on
the porch next to my back door or a river my relationship with rain starts to
get a little shaky. Also, this is so exciting now Will does not want to get
ready for bed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uiz0U_X-j5A/VWikoHoWweI/AAAAAAAAAyI/0A0VLK95qZI/s1600/IMG_1935.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uiz0U_X-j5A/VWikoHoWweI/AAAAAAAAAyI/0A0VLK95qZI/s320/IMG_1935.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Then the repair man
calls - Does tomorrow work? As if he has no clue about the weather situation
but I don't mention it because I want that darn compressor replaced so I have
air conditioning and this is a far better option than waiting until Monday -
huge hassle we are not going to be here Monday. I always expect the best
outcome and am expecting there to be no problems tomorrow.<br />
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Now it is still raining but the water has become peaceful and our lake is
slowly receding away from the house - we are back on good terms. All is well,
and I feel great!<br />
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Yes, we are expected to get more rain for the next two days but if the pattern
holds, it won't start raining until 4 or 5 so here I am, very hopeful and
expectant that I will have air conditioning tomorrow and my relationship with
rain will remain strong as ever - I do love the summer rain!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #737373; font-family: 'Bradley Hand ITC'; font-size: 34.6666679382324px; line-height: 37.0933341979981px;">Emily</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-11561686417626947342015-05-25T14:49:00.000-07:002015-05-25T14:49:44.161-07:00Kitchen Redo Part 1<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">I
have a reputation for biting off more than I can chew. I really can’t help
myself – if I decide that I want to do something, I do it! This is the case
with our kitchen, and it all started with the floors. If pulling one plank of
the fake wood floor was easy – the rest would be a breeze…right? Wrong! The
floors turned into a tremendous job that only led to other issues, like the
kitchen cabinets and then the handles and then the wall color…. Fortunately, we
are nearing the end of my experiment but it has taken a while. This is a both a
confession and update. Once we finish I will post pictures of the final product</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 12pt;">J</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Step
1: If you have RA or another condition that limits your physical ability on
occasion, rethink tearing apart your kitchen. Luckily, our contractors were
available in my situation. In other words, you really should have a back-up
plan to any do-it-yourself plan. If not, you may get stuck with a tremendous
mess!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Step
2: Remember, everything always takes longer and more effort than on HGTV – I can’t
stress this enough, but with determination anything can be accomplished.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">With
that, here is what I have done so far:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><span style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><i>Original</i></span></span><i style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> cabinets and partial floor after my demo started:</i><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><i>What a mess!</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><i>I <u>finally</u> finished the cabinets - hardware still needed:</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><i>Stage 1 with the flooring professionals:</i></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E_ZgDhpJsNY/VWOWencMsDI/AAAAAAAAAw8/Ku8gac6DKbI/s1600/IMG_1320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E_ZgDhpJsNY/VWOWencMsDI/AAAAAAAAAw8/Ku8gac6DKbI/s320/IMG_1320.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O_B6-UQXz7E/VWOWeaf-g4I/AAAAAAAAAw4/Z0naGAkORQs/s1600/IMG_1322.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O_B6-UQXz7E/VWOWeaf-g4I/AAAAAAAAAw4/Z0naGAkORQs/s320/IMG_1322.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><i>Concrete floor finished - only touch-ups needed - and clearly a new wall color</i></span><i style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">:)</i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2hw274UJ6EA/VWOXSVkJN2I/AAAAAAAAAxU/ih0alrX4CPU/s1600/IMG_1356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2hw274UJ6EA/VWOXSVkJN2I/AAAAAAAAAxU/ih0alrX4CPU/s320/IMG_1356.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><i>As far as I have gotten - going grey with the walls, hardware installed:</i></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PpgJ1ESHfTY/VWOXq2ozJuI/AAAAAAAAAxk/F2MdiiLPaf0/s1600/IMG_1815.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PpgJ1ESHfTY/VWOXq2ozJuI/AAAAAAAAAxk/F2MdiiLPaf0/s320/IMG_1815.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Tomorrow
our floors will get their final touch-ups and then the wall and trim paint will
be finished. Lastly, we are having built-in seating installed by an actual
carpenter (not me!) in the next few weeks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">To be
continued…..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">***Note:
I will not do this again. I believe strongly in expertise. I have touched the
stove – it is hot, and I am no contractor!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Memorial Day!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Bradley Hand ITC"; font-size: 26.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Emily</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-84409698072064055152015-05-18T18:47:00.000-07:002015-05-18T18:47:29.539-07:00It’s going to be a circus!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E13JjNDMY8Y/VVqWGczvv6I/AAAAAAAAAvs/443dN1x68ZE/s1600/circus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E13JjNDMY8Y/VVqWGczvv6I/AAAAAAAAAvs/443dN1x68ZE/s320/circus.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Summer
is here - I hope you are ready. I’m not going to lie, I really appreciate
Will’s school and he loves it. It is a healthy break each day from each other. He
is too young for camps to be worthwhile. Last summer we tried British Soccer
Camp - an hour and a half each day for a week and it was a complete flop. Will </span><span style="font-size: 15.3333330154419px; line-height: 16.4066677093506px;">didn't</span><span style="font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 107%;"> even play that special sort of toddler soccer often referred to as “herd
ball” because the kids all run in a pack after the ball. Rather, he found ant
hill and counted black ants. So rethinking this summer, we will continue with
Little Dragons martial arts - twice a week for 30 minutes. Although he loves
going and has decided he will be a black belt, this does not begin to structure
our summer days/weeks. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Today
was the first day of the last week of school - what to do? This week’s theme at
school is the circus and it feels so appropriate – oh a circus the summer will
be! With my low tolerance for providing constant entertainment, I have to be
prepared. Surely I am not alone in this, but I do know some moms who can’t wait
for the 24/7 run around for 3 months. Me, not so much. I keep dreaming for the
summer beach house – do nothing then drink red wine and eat a baguette days of
my life </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 107%;">J</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 107%;"> Will is invited, of course! Although he may have to drink
sparking apple juice!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Preparation:</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 107%;"> I have spent the last
month setting up activity stations both inside and outside the house. Inside we
have a play room with stations set up like a preschool room. Letters, blocks,
train table, drawing table (he loves to draw), and yes, Netflix with strict
limits. Currently the only shows he wants to watch are documentaries about
space, so I think we are safe. We have puzzles, race cars, and in my opinion
more than any single kid needs. Of course, since I am the one who cleans up his
“office” my perspective may be skewed. Nonetheless, inside is important because
our weather is extreme. Our “regular” summer weather is hot – 100 degrees hot.
They did not name the <i>Hotter than Hell</i>
bike race here without cause.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Outside
we built a wooden swing set/fort combo in the backyard. Also, my parents
brought us a huge tractor tire that we had filled with sand. Thanks for your
help Mom and Dad! And finally, we have a huge trampoline with the safety net!
My circus is set to begin! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 107%;">I
even have a plan for playdates! Two of Will’s friends from school have very
awesome parents and we are all going to trade kids throughout the week so we
all get days off – genius!! So, our house will be a circus, and who knows how
the others are preparing but with kids added to the mix – we are sure to do
some acrobatics.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-34111770744891889502015-05-14T18:04:00.000-07:002015-05-14T18:04:21.905-07:00Learning from Will<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-crNZxBuOph4/VVTqbylF64I/AAAAAAAAAvQ/_b7wMV06J0Q/s1600/mothers%2Bday%2B2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-crNZxBuOph4/VVTqbylF64I/AAAAAAAAAvQ/_b7wMV06J0Q/s320/mothers%2Bday%2B2015.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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We all know to watch what we say around our kids – no “bad”
words or anything that adults obviously don’t want their kids repeating in
public. But, what about the things we say that are not “bad” but just part of
life. Sometimes my son makes me really aware of what I say or do on a regular
basis. Yesterday Will announced that his back was hurting really bad today, so
he needed to sit down. Then he said, “Well, Mommy, your back doesn't hurt today?”
The huge question mark was in his tone. It really made me think – kids are so
aware. I did not realize that I mention my back so much, or maybe I don’t say it so often, but I am sure my discomfort shows. He is concerned, and I get that, but I hate that
our four year-old is worried about my back. I wonder, how honest should I be with Will? My first instinct is to protect him from dealing with health problems; however, I don’t think it is wise to pretend that nothing is wrong because when the time comes, as it will, that I can’t act like nothing is wrong, it will be a shock: <i>Oh, Mommy is
sick</i>. Sometimes, <i>really</i> sick. Still, I don’t want him to worry all
the time about my “inside booboo”. <o:p></o:p></div>
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So I started thinking about what other telling
things Will says. This is practical because he is in the phase of processing his day out loud at
bedtime. If we really want to know what is going on with him, the secret is to
go through our regular bedtime routine: bath, brush teeth, story, goodnight,
and then step outside his door and listen. Heck, sometimes he talks or sings
so loud it echoes throughout the house, so no sneaking necessary. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>During the Day Quotes:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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“I really need you to get up off that hard floor, it will hurt
your back.” – When I sit on the bathroom floor while he takes a bath.<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Well, I am going to eat so I can grow – I’m biggering and
biggering and biggering” – this one comes with his hands thrown up in the air
as he demonstrates his growth. Bless his heart – he is the smallest kid in his
class and is really focused on getting taller. Also, thanks to Dr. Seuss, he
does think “biggering” is a word <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span><br />
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“No, I told you…” – Yes, I do say this a lot and am working
on rephrasing my directions. Clearly, he should not be saying this to me though.
We are raising a very opinionated child and have had to work really hard on
discipline – which is admittedly exhausting. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Bedtime:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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During his bedtime self-talks we typically hear about what he did
with his friends at school or sometimes he makes up wild stories about volcanoes
and rescuing his friend, Piper. I think this comes directly from nightly story time
with Dad. My husband is a creative writer and fantastic storyteller. Will provides
the characters (typically Thomas, Percy, some other typical preschool
characters) and a bit of a plot then amazingly enough, Rob cranks out some
fantastic adventure. Will is clearly practicing on his own. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The other option, which seems to be the loudest of them all, is his newly found singing voice. He goes to choir at school but never
really made a go of it until now. Last night he was literally scream-singing, “Go,
tell it over the mountain…” for about five minutes and then switched to the classic “ABCDEFG….”,
next came “You are my sunshine…”, and then off to sleep. Honestly, it is sweet.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So, all of this is to say, kids are little parrots – they not
only repeat what they learn but also pick up on when is not directly taught or
said to them. With this, I think finding a middle ground so there is not some
mystery about mom not feeling well some days or a daily code-red is best.
As Will gets older, he will understand more, but I never want him to feel scared
about me being sick. I love him too much for that. I also love him too much to
flat-out lie, so because I am a teacher, I will use what I do know – the gradual building of knowledge; the scaffolding of understanding. The older he gets, the more I will tell him. For now, we will
stick to <i>my back hurts sometimes but I am trying to get better</i> – and I am.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-59105317283599168802015-05-13T15:59:00.001-07:002015-05-13T15:59:38.377-07:00Hi. I am Emily Graves.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s8A6ZujoUSY/VVOxgVuysYI/AAAAAAAAAuk/vsPyG4f9vfY/s1600/IMG_1682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s8A6ZujoUSY/VVOxgVuysYI/AAAAAAAAAuk/vsPyG4f9vfY/s320/IMG_1682.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="background: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 107%;">February 26 was my last blog
post and I will do better. You see, I have run into a strange spot. After years of
being sick and working so hard to fake it - I am having a hard time owning it.
It seems that I have almost convinced myself that the sick person really isn't
me. Like living my life in boxes: mom, wife, professor and academic author,
daughter, sister, volunteer, friend, sick lady…. Now I have gone and written a
book about being sick - yikes! Then, the book has gotten good review - even
recommended by US Review of Books - another yikes! </span></div>
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<span style="background: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 107%;">More people on the internet
and book reviewing circles know more about me than most people who live in our
little city. Clearly it is time to start combining my boxes. So to start I must
tell you that everything in the book is true. That said, I am not an extrovert
so the picture taking and blogging is more difficult for me. As a professor you
have the luxury of standing behind theory whether it is your own or someone
else’s. For How to be a Good Mommy when You’re Sick, I have to really put
myself out there for people and that is a whole different ball game. No,
I do not look like the cover picture on any days - I just don’t. Luckily, I am
not in the modeling business :) the pictures for today is my first “selfie”. </span></div>
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<span style="background: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 107%;">I think
having realistic expectations of ourselves as mothers with additional
challenges is a basic. As my husband would say - or a g rated version - “If you
can’t take care of the basics, you can’t do anything else”. He is an incredible
support and I could not imagine this journey without him. For him, I think
making sure that my basics are taken care of and reminding me to do the same is
a way for him to show that he loves me and wants me to be around a long time.
This may make some people mad at times but he really does not care and I love
him for it. With this confession, I am pledging to actively blog and be a
real person. The fake nails have come off and the real me is coming out. So I
will reintroduce myself as me - Emily Graves, a person who wants to make a
difference in people’s lives, be a great mom, and just be. The ride will not
always be smooth but I will be honest.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-28090878449537121762015-02-26T21:22:00.000-08:002015-02-26T21:22:21.721-08:00Happy Coming Home Day!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1VHD4CU4UvY/VO_9SlU_E4I/AAAAAAAAAso/LPfTVHzKthI/s1600/Home2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1VHD4CU4UvY/VO_9SlU_E4I/AAAAAAAAAso/LPfTVHzKthI/s1600/Home2011.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Four years ago today, on my 30th birthday, we brought Will home for the first time. What an amazing gift! We had gained almost 4 pounds in the 60 days he lived in NICU starting at just 1 lb 15 oz. Now he is running and swimming and writing his name just like the other boys - you would not even know he had a rough start. The picture above is the day we brought him home. The picture below was taken at a school field trip this year. Fire Station!! :)<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-86461812958520669082015-02-17T16:21:00.000-08:002015-02-17T16:21:56.655-08:00Press Release<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PcujYZyKJv8/VOPZHocWwdI/AAAAAAAAAsM/xljNp-pAsW4/s1600/Press%2BRelease.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PcujYZyKJv8/VOPZHocWwdI/AAAAAAAAAsM/xljNp-pAsW4/s1600/Press%2BRelease.JPG" height="640" width="502" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-34589173607825955572015-02-09T09:56:00.000-08:002015-02-10T11:09:38.476-08:00Playing with Chalk Paint<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ADRYgLMirV8/VMpu76PdGdI/AAAAAAAAArg/QBQg_cMUAUw/s1600/IMG_0635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ADRYgLMirV8/VMpu76PdGdI/AAAAAAAAArg/QBQg_cMUAUw/s1600/IMG_0635.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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I have been hearing great things about chalk paint - easy to use, durable, and great looking. So, I decided to experiment. Will loves to cook with me and needed a stool that was sturdy and safe. He has come a log way from our little 1 pound 15 ounce baby but is relatively short in the 8 percentile of his age group. I found this red stool at the local Habitat for Humanity Builder's Bargains store for $5 and after jumping and wiggling around on it for a few minutes decided it was up for the job but needed makeover. First, I painted the stool with the chalk paint (different from chalkboard paint) and then did a very light second coat that could be considered more of a touch-up job. I am no expert painter. After it dried I rubbed wood paste wax into the entire thing with fine steel wool. This last step is what makes it so strong. The entire project cost me under $20 and I have both paint and wax for another project left over. Now for some hints:<br />
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<ol>
<li>I bought my chalk paint at a craft store because I wanted to do my project that day - in about a month Lowes will start carrying the Valspar line of this paint in many more colors and it is a fraction of the price. You can check it out on their website. </li>
<li>This I did know (thank you mom) and it saved me lots of money. The wood paste wax that is sold at craft stores is up to $30. Instead of purchasing that I bought Johnson paste wax and it did a great job at under $7 for 16 oz. This product can be found at almost any store from Target to Lowes, Home Depot, etc.. I bet I used 3-4 tablespoons worth for this project so my jar will go a long way. </li>
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Small projects like this make me feel very accomplished and I consider them victories in my battle with RA. Also, I love saving money as I am positive many of you are aware of the cost of prescriptions and other medical necessities. Here is my final product - I hope you like it. Will "loves it".</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-17375101083690500442015-02-03T09:30:00.000-08:002015-02-05T07:41:47.327-08:00Will's new "office"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cv42ZxZbsMA/VMpt_lyZocI/AAAAAAAAArU/C4ulJNpe3XQ/s1600/IMG_0645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cv42ZxZbsMA/VMpt_lyZocI/AAAAAAAAArU/C4ulJNpe3XQ/s1600/IMG_0645.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span id="docs-internal-guid-7b96be1c-36ba-5d13-4f15-9a5591a44704"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">During this cold season I am so thankful that we rearranged our house so that Will has his own "office". In his office we have strategically set up stations or centers for him to play in. Some of his options include a reading nook inside his tee-pee, a train table, a writing station, a chalkboard area, and a science station. Also, we do let him watch select shows on Netflix - talk about great bang for your buck! Choosing what your child sees and avoiding commercials is hard to beat! While these are all fun and good for Will's development, they are also a survival strategy for me at times when I am really struggling to entertain our only child in the afternoons when we can't get outside. I can't always play chase but instead of only watching TV or feeling "bored", he can go “work” at his stations. This is a life saver at times for me - particularly when I am not as well as can be. Although I struggle with the constant need to deny the fact that I do have limitations, the reality is that I do and planning ahead for times when I need extra help or simply the support of ready made activities makes a tremendous difference in our lives. This picture is of a robot we build this week - simple fun with the little guy!</span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-5916247833760280112015-01-29T09:04:00.001-08:002015-01-29T09:04:42.587-08:00Reading Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8XW1Vv4DCbc/VMpl40YvbkI/AAAAAAAAAq4/48uIeXtd-iA/s1600/IMG_0627.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8XW1Vv4DCbc/VMpl40YvbkI/AAAAAAAAAq4/48uIeXtd-iA/s1600/IMG_0627.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Unfortunately, our weather has taken a dramatic turn with cold rain and the distinct possibility of a blizzard. When people say they can "feel it in their bones" I often wonder what means for someone who does not struggle on a daily basis with chronic illness. While looking for the small things to celebrate this week, I can't help but pause and smile at our bedtime routine. Sleep is not negotiable and I am pretty proud of how well we have managed to stick with a family routine of getting adequate sleep. Will does not nap but he does sleep from 7:30 PM - 7:30 or 8:00 AM each night and rarely wakes up. As part of the routine, every night we have story time. Will picks a book or has Rob tell him a story after he gives him the main characters and plot (my husband is a writer so this comes naturally to him - I have been informed by Will that mine just are not the same). So, while I get to sit back and enjoy our story time I can’t help but reflect on how grateful I am for my little family and the time we set aside for each other. These are pictures is of Will "reading" to and with Daddy. It is these small moments in life that make the fight for health and on bad days - functionality all worth it. I hope you are finding these moments also.</span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-18041180484549878582015-01-19T15:47:00.000-08:002015-01-19T15:47:13.719-08:00Enjoying 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wyPwvGqaWxI/VL2U48ZT57I/AAAAAAAAAp8/h1gToRCY2Vs/s1600/IMG_0551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wyPwvGqaWxI/VL2U48ZT57I/AAAAAAAAAp8/h1gToRCY2Vs/s1600/IMG_0551.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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My grandmother talked to me about the notion of avoiding New Year’s resolutions that will be inevitably broken and, instead, focusing on Dreams for 2015. I absolutely love this idea! With that, my dream for 2015 is to learn how to enjoy the small victories and moments with the people I hold dear. Our son, Will, is at the top of that list. Today we had marvelous weather and despite the fact that for the last three weeks I have been unable to manage my pain with prescriptions, heat, stretching, or any other remedy that I have tried on top of my regular meditation, I was determined to find a way to enjoy the day. I asked Rob to have some father/son quality time with Will for an hour and went for a deep tissue - not so relaxing but effective - massage. I can’t say that I was suddenly pain free, but I could move and that is something worth celebrating! So, to celebrate the suddenly fabulous weather (sunny, no wind, and 70 degrees after several weeks of sub-freezing temps) and my ability to move, I invited Will to go to the backyard and do some yoga with me. I played with him and took advantage of being able to move while doing something healthy. That’s better than a win-win; it’s a win-win-win! Here are some pictures of our fun. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gcu3_5gbLxU/VL2Va6_Tu5I/AAAAAAAAAqU/nonnup2mak4/s1600/IMG_0546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gcu3_5gbLxU/VL2Va6_Tu5I/AAAAAAAAAqU/nonnup2mak4/s1600/IMG_0546.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />What are your dreams for 2015? How will you celebrate your victories and special moments? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-45554627782144423152014-10-24T08:33:00.000-07:002014-10-24T08:34:05.504-07:00I have found a way to win the war!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f0tqVpoxJO0/VEptU3SIIHI/AAAAAAAAAoU/c-AgxgJjkSo/s1600/Will's%2BWall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f0tqVpoxJO0/VEptU3SIIHI/AAAAAAAAAoU/c-AgxgJjkSo/s1600/Will's%2BWall.jpg" height="320" width="262" /></a></div>
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A while back I posted a do-it-yourself display for your
child’s art from school. While it was simple and easy to use, Will kept pulling
everything down and sometimes my magnets would just fall. So after losing many
battles, I have found a way to win the war! And, Will loves this new and
improved version of his Art Wall. The major players here are:<o:p></o:p><br />
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<ul>
<li>1 curtain rod – the length of the hall (I got mine from
Target)</li>
<li>2 bags of the small curtain clips (also from Target)</li>
<li>Repurposed frames</li>
<li>1 mirror</li>
</ul>
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I chose to hang the mirror first at the right height so that
it was for Will and he could see himself. He loves this! Also, his image is
framed by his art and that is something that I love. Then I hung the curtain
Rod with the curtain clips high enough that Will could not reach them but see
them. Finally, I keep adding special pieces in frames around the mirror. I
never thought framing his work would be so important but he studies these
pieces daily. Of course, Will loves to draw and practices routinely and I want
to encourage that but this is also a marvelous way to quickly display his
latest art pieces from school. <o:p></o:p></div>
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It is impossible to keep everything so I snap pictures of his
work periodically before changing out what is up. That way, each piece has wall
time and then is saved in a picture. Everyone will find a system that works for
them. I am just so excited that I found one that is functional and fun I wanted
to share. Of course, I am always interested in what other moms and dads do with
their children’s art so if you have ideas, please share!<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-91089834585109680012014-08-28T17:36:00.000-07:002014-08-28T17:36:00.405-07:00My Story<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HLeWdxyvywg/U__JoZa0ujI/AAAAAAAAAn8/IFOkF3Mz7VE/s1600/IMG_0072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HLeWdxyvywg/U__JoZa0ujI/AAAAAAAAAn8/IFOkF3Mz7VE/s1600/IMG_0072.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When women with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) get pregnant,
their RA goes into remission. At least that’s what my doctor told my husband,
Robert, and me when we went in to discuss the possibility of having a baby. At
that time we both were professors with busy careers. I was 28, and according to
my doctors, my RA was on “cruise control”. Thus, we were given a big “thumbs
up” from the medical community to get pregnant. I would not trade our son for
the world, but boy were they wrong!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There was no remission for me, not unless remission means
running head first into kidney failure and an abrupt pause in my career. After
many months of baffled doctors, biopsies, and blood tests, I was diagnosed with
Essential Mixed Cryoglobulinemia Type II – a complication of my RA that was
causing kidney failure. I was officially the complicated, rare case “only found
in medical journals”. In other words, my bewildered doctors and nurses all but
labeled me a freak of medical nature. After being in the hospital for two weeks
with out of control edema, swelling, that resulted in 50 pounds of excess fluid
filling my body, I had to have a C-section just 28 weeks and two days into my
pregnancy, and our son, William, was born at an astonishing one pound 15
ounces, a micro-preemie who fit in the palm of my hand. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The days that followed were like living a triathlon loop of
professional obligations, myriad doctors’ appointments, and timed visits to the
Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). All of this kept my husband and me on the
verge of collapse, tears, and, in the good times, utter and joyous thankfulness
that things had not gone as badly as they could have. While our son suffered a
few setbacks, he remained in good condition and slowly grew stronger by the
day. I will never forget the first time I got to actually hold him. For most
mothers, holding their newborn child is a reward granted soon after birth. I,
however, had to wait two weeks before I could hold my baby, and then I was only
allowed to for thirty minutes a day. Those daily thirty minute doses of
motherhood became the center the whirlwind of my life revolved around. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">Then finally the day we had been waiting for
came. Sixty days after William was born, he came home from the NICU on my 30th
birthday. The best gift ever! Fortunately, he had very few complications after
coming home and has grown into robust, happy toddler who is as smart as he is
cute. I, however, remained sick, very sick. This is why I am on a mission to find every possible tip and trick to make chronic illness and motherhood as joyful as healthy mothers who do not have to juggle medical issues as well as motherhood and </span><span style="line-height: 17.1200008392334px;">careers or simply motherhood, a full time job in itself. </span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-37231149819621751102014-08-12T15:51:00.000-07:002014-08-12T15:51:21.317-07:00Designing your house to be a safe place: baby gates<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NXP8hCzzJMM/U-qICCtsGQI/AAAAAAAAAno/q5NxXYIV7MQ/s1600/SavantPhoto_Emily_341.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NXP8hCzzJMM/U-qICCtsGQI/AAAAAAAAAno/q5NxXYIV7MQ/s1600/SavantPhoto_Emily_341.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Once your child becomes a mobile little curiosity machine,
gates, plug covers, latches, and door knob covers become essential. Using these
devices, you can create safe zones for your toddler that are essentially giant
play yards. Of course, you don’t literally want to live in a play yard but
safety wise, you do. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The importance of baby
gate types has really made a difference in my designs over the years. First we
had the small wooden $10 gate that is a straight gate. No opening or closing.
These are great if you are tall and healthy and can climb over gates to get to
every room with a baby in your arms but for me – straight to the trash. Picture
me at 5’7” with no legs – all torso trying to jump a ten-foot hurdle; that is
what I looked like. Then we decided to “invest” in the gates that would open
and close. Some of the options include the ability to “self-close” while others
can be left open or shut. This is where preference comes in. For me, I like the
self-closing gates on spaces where you would never want your child. For
example, in our house the utility room which is also where we keep our cleaning
supplies. These are also ideal for stairs. But for William’s room, a space
where he can come and go as he pleases much of the day but for nap time, quiet
time, and at night he is “locked in” I prefer the gate that I can leave open or
close my self – which I hope are for obvious reasons. </span></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-52847030099515763082014-07-13T12:22:00.000-07:002014-07-13T12:22:08.696-07:00Rob's Fresh Mango Salsa: A low sodium treat that offers a wide array of powerful nutrients <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cAZ1vJJe5fc/U72meLn_XAI/AAAAAAAAAnE/NCPBt0Rtz7s/s1600/2014-07-08+22.36.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cAZ1vJJe5fc/U72meLn_XAI/AAAAAAAAAnE/NCPBt0Rtz7s/s1600/2014-07-08+22.36.06.jpg" height="192" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have to brag about my wonderful husband. He works really hard to help me be as healthy as possible and that includes helping me cook. Last night he made this wonderful fresh mango salsa, and yes, as you'll see below, he breaks down the nutrients for 99% of everything he cooks. This is his recipe:</span><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 Chopped Red Mango (272 grams)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Diced White Onion - 114 g (one 0.5 inch thick slice)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 Diced Large Poblano Pepper (88 g) </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">9 Diced Sweet Peppers (4 red, 3 orange, 2 yellow or about 87 g)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3 tsp Minced Garlic (15 g)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lemon Juice 1 oz</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lime Juice 1 oz </span></li>
</ul>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mix all ingredients in a bowl and serve</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />Makes about seven 1/2 cup </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(90 g) </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">servings </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><u>Per serving nutrition*:</u><br />Calories - 40.1<br />Fat - 0.3 g<br />Monounsaturated fat - 0.1 g<br />Sodium - 1.9 mg<br />Potassium - 158.6 mg<br />Carbohydrates - 10 g<br />Fiber - 1.4 g<br />Sugars - 5.4 g<br />Protein - 0.9 g</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">C - 88.1%</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A - 15%<br />B6 - 4.9%</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Manganese - 3.2%</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Folate (Folic Acid) - 2%</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Magnesium - 1.6%</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">E - 1.4%<br />Calcium - 1.4%</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Iron - 1.1%</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Copper - 1%</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">B1 (Thiamine) - 0.9%</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Selenium - 0.6%</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Zinc - 0.4%</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">B2 (Riboflavin) - 0.4%</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">B5 (Pantothenic Acid) - 0.4%</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />B3 (Niacin) - 0.3%<br />Phosphorus - 1%</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">*Percentages based on a 2,000 calorie per day diet</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-77660091942004798312014-07-08T18:52:00.003-07:002014-07-08T18:52:40.423-07:00Delicious, Nearly Sodium-Free Chunky Salsa<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vWN4tBwABmo/U7yfXpCPA-I/AAAAAAAAAm0/qAzCGgCsc1Q/s1600/2014-07-08+20.13.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vWN4tBwABmo/U7yfXpCPA-I/AAAAAAAAAm0/qAzCGgCsc1Q/s1600/2014-07-08+20.13.01.jpg" height="192" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I finally did it! Admittedly, I do have an addiction to
chips and salsa but have really had to hold back because of the sodium level in
my favorite “medium, chunky” salsa. For years I have tried various recipes to
make my own low-sodium blend and have never been satisfied with the texture,
the taste, or both. But lo! Now I have finally come up with a very easy and
fast way to make great, nearly sodium-free chunky salsa and do it without all
of the chopping, which is difficult to impossible for me if I’m suffering a flair-up.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Since my discovering break-through recipe, I have set off on
an adventure to modify and play with flavors, but the hard part is done, and I’m
going to share it with you. So…[drumroll] without further ado, here is my basic
recipe:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 container of chopped mixed bell peppers from the produce
department<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 container of fresh pico de gallo (onion, jalapeno,
cilantro, tomato) from the produce department<o:p></o:p></div>
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1-2 tablespoons lime juice<o:p></o:p></div>
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½ poblano pepper – chopped<o:p></o:p></div>
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2 whole tomatoes<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 chopped tomato<o:p></o:p></div>
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A dash of sea salt<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Directions:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ol>
<li>Put everything but the tomatoes in
a big bowl and stir</li>
<li>Cut the two whole tomatoes into
quarters and put in a blender – make a soup like mix</li>
<li>Pour the blended tomatoes over all
of the other veggies and stir</li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And that is it! The miracle of delicious, nearly sodium-free
chunky salsa made from wholesome, raw, fresh ingredients and without the
joint-searing task of chopping veggies (thank you produce department!). I have
been experimenting with adding garlic and fine tuning my flavor, but we now
keep this salsa in our refrigerator and I can enjoy at least one half of my
chips and salsa addiction without blowing my low-sodium diet.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-6009838771833128372014-05-27T09:51:00.003-07:002014-05-27T09:51:54.412-07:00New WebsitePlease check out my new website. It is now home to our Facebook page, this blog, and more to come!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.chronicillnessandmotherhood.com/">http://www.chronicillnessandmotherhood.com/</a></div>
<br />
Thank you for your continued support. As always, I am looking for suggestions and comments so please share.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-67690849798447054772014-05-19T09:14:00.000-07:002014-05-19T09:14:33.011-07:00Jar Frustration<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aANxss7Dufo/U3ota_fYb-I/AAAAAAAAAlc/1VTMA4hK37s/s1600/4+jars.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aANxss7Dufo/U3ota_fYb-I/AAAAAAAAAlc/1VTMA4hK37s/s1600/4+jars.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I hate asking for help and jars are always a frustration for
me. I have searched multiple strategies for opening jars by myself and always
use asking for help as a last resort. Here are some of the strategies that I
think are most useful. Sometimes it takes a combination of these strategies but
I usually have success.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li>Under the cabinet jar opener – <a href="http://chronicillnessandmotherhood.blogspot.com/p/blog-page_5.html" target="_blank">see my list of helpful products</a></li>
<li>Hot water – running hot water around the rim of the jar will
help loosen the seal</li>
<li>Butter knife – take a butter knife and slip it between the
lid and the jar then twist. Follow this procedure in 3-4 places around the lid.
It usually breaks the seal for easy opening. You may also use a bottle opener
for this technique.</li>
<li>Tapping – tap the lid of the jar on the counter while
rotating the lid so that you tap it all the way around.</li>
<li>Rubber gloves – this will give you a better grip</li>
<li>Silicone pot holders – this is also a way to get a stronger
grip</li>
</ul>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
This example of having a set of strategies to try in
frustrating situations can be easily applied to lots of areas in life. For
parents with chronic illness, everyday obstacles such as opening jars with
arthritic hands can be negated by having a plan of attack. Personally, being
able to conquer lots of these small things helps make me feel more “normal” and
certainly independent.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-29961429559598221272014-05-14T08:49:00.000-07:002014-05-14T08:49:56.250-07:00New Pages<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sjqD8JnqoBk/U3OEuoYQnZI/AAAAAAAAAlI/-8F6ZBMWRgA/s1600/update.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sjqD8JnqoBk/U3OEuoYQnZI/AAAAAAAAAlI/-8F6ZBMWRgA/s1600/update.png" height="215" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have been working on adding useful information to blog.
Please check out the newest pages:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li><b><a href="http://chronicillnessandmotherhood.blogspot.com/p/how-to-be-good-mommy-when-youre-sick.html" target="_blank">Coming Soon:</a></b> Information about the book coming out this
summer</li>
<li><b><a href="http://chronicillnessandmotherhood.blogspot.com/p/play.html" target="_blank">Play:</a></b> Ideas for
staying active and healthy through play with your child(ren)</li>
<li><b><a href="http://chronicillnessandmotherhood.blogspot.com/p/blog-page_5.html" target="_blank">Helpful Products:</a></b>
Different products that may daily like easier</li>
<li><b><a href="http://chronicillnessandmotherhood.blogspot.com/p/you.html" target="_blank">You:</a> </b>Practical
tips for putting yourself together</li>
<li><b><a href="http://chronicillnessandmotherhood.blogspot.com/p/childcare.html" target="_blank">Childcare/Education:</a></b>
Ideas on how to interview and screen childcare/education</li>
<li><b><a href="http://chronicillnessandmotherhood.blogspot.com/p/resources.html" target="_blank">Resources:</a></b>
Helpful websites about chronic illness, children, and more</li>
</ul>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I will continually update all of these pages so please
remember to check back periodically for new information. Also, I love to hear
your ideas so please leave comments or message me if you have anything to add.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-12170369271452254172014-04-30T09:54:00.002-07:002014-04-30T09:54:57.577-07:00Height Ruler<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jp0cfPOR1Co/U2Eplmp5M3I/AAAAAAAAAjI/gv6XRx6Uu4o/s1600/2014-04-15+11.06.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jp0cfPOR1Co/U2Eplmp5M3I/AAAAAAAAAjI/gv6XRx6Uu4o/s1600/2014-04-15+11.06.45.jpg" height="320" width="192" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have lots of friends who have used doors or door frames in their homes to mark their kid’s height as they grow. I was really uncertain about this and did not want to be that crazy lady who moved a door with her to save memories so I decided on this project and have since made some for gifts.</div>
<h2 style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>A height ruler:</b></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>What you need:</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1. A nice 5 foot board<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2. A stain you like<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3. A pencil<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4. A tape measure<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5. A wood burning tool – I got mine on Amazon for $14<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Steps:</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1. Use the measuring tape and pencil to mark inches and feet
from end to end of the board.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2. Use the pencil to write numbers and/or names you want to
burn.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3. Use the wood burning tool to trace your pencil work.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4. Stain the board – I usually do 2 coats depending on my
design.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Design Tip:</b> Get creative – you can make customized gifts for
really cheap. For example, I did a <i>Growing Grandchildren's</i> ruler for my parents so
they can chart all of their grandchildren as they grow. Also, we use ours to mark
special events like l<i>earning to walk</i> and <i>first soccer game</i>.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-6477225788326972522014-04-16T08:55:00.001-07:002014-04-16T18:32:44.321-07:00DIY Project Ideas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-75bledUkzpk/U06lJZdwO7I/AAAAAAAAAiQ/sX6LP7LbRt8/s1600/2014-04-15+11.07.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-75bledUkzpk/U06lJZdwO7I/AAAAAAAAAiQ/sX6LP7LbRt8/s1600/2014-04-15+11.07.00.jpg" height="192" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Chronically ill moms have added expenses for healthcare
that other moms do not have to budget for. That does not mean that we
can’t be crafty and have fun with decorating our homes. Here are some very
inexpensive and easy DIY project ideas to try.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Chalkboard</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>What you need:</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1. Framed canvas picture – I have had success finding these
in my storage room and for $10 on Craigslist. Tip: You love frame and not the
picture.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2. Chalkboard paint - One pint will last a long time.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3. If you don’t like the color of the frame, paint you like.
I did not do anything to my frame.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4. Painter’s tape</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5. White chalk<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Steps:</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1. Tape the frame so that you will not get paint on it when
you paint the canvas.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2. Paint the canvas. You will most likely need 3 coats of
paint. Follow the directions on the can. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3. Let your project dry overnight.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4. Using the side of the chalk, completely color the
chalkboard.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5. Wipe off with towel</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6. Hang and enjoy!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qyrPq28KScI/U06mhhL-iKI/AAAAAAAAAio/RylW1kvoV2k/s1600/2014-04-15+11.07.49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qyrPq28KScI/U06mhhL-iKI/AAAAAAAAAio/RylW1kvoV2k/s1600/2014-04-15+11.07.49.jpg" height="192" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Coat Rack</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>What you need:</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1. Your child’s first puzzle<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2. Wood glue (I love Gorilla glue)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3. Your preference of hanging hardware. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Steps:</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1. Attach the hanging hardware to the back of the puzzle
frame <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2. Glue the puzzle pieces to the puzzle frame<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3. Let your project dry overnight.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4. Hang and enjoy!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bDqW0voi3w0/U06mhXuQ52I/AAAAAAAAAis/Y9kssWmpcWs/s1600/2014-04-15+11.08.19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bDqW0voi3w0/U06mhXuQ52I/AAAAAAAAAis/Y9kssWmpcWs/s1600/2014-04-15+11.08.19.jpg" height="192" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Art Gallery</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>What you need:</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1. Your child’s name in wood letters – I repurposed the
letters from Will’s nursery.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2. black screws<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3. 1 roll of magnet tape<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4. Drill<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5. Small magnets<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Steps:</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1. Look at your wall and visually organize your space. I
suggest arranging your design out on the floor. During this step you will cut
the roll of magnet tape appropriately to fit your design. I did 2 longer
strips.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2. Hang the wood letters<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3. Use the black screws to hang the strips of cut magnet tape.
This only takes 1 screw at each end.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4. You can use this gallery immediately to hang your child’s
art work. In the picture of mine, I have 1 strip covered in art work and 1 bare
so that you can see how it looks between steps 3 and 4. I normally keep it full
of artwork so you can’t see the magnet strips.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6053945941527245395.post-10985776451433685952014-03-23T13:23:00.001-07:002014-03-24T12:45:45.903-07:00Stick to basic rules – zippers, Velcro, and elastic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IupI39QHabE/Uy9B-_d7dSI/AAAAAAAAAhk/VjNTcAaA2Z0/s1600/Savant_Emily_078a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IupI39QHabE/Uy9B-_d7dSI/AAAAAAAAAhk/VjNTcAaA2Z0/s1600/Savant_Emily_078a.jpg" height="249" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;">Dressing
William has always been easier than dressing myself – especially because I can
swell so much throughout the day that dressing myself has become an art form
out of necessity. Dressing Will has always been fun! Also, I emphasize fun
because I was once told that you could “never” dress your kid to look cute and
put together unless you ironed all of their clothes. To this I say – completely
ridiculous! Honestly, I don’t iron unless the world is on fire. My husband
irons his own shirts if he wants them ironed and Will and I wear wash and wear
clothes. Buying wrinkle free and quality fabrics helps and I keep that in mind
while shopping. If it looks like a “you have to iron it to wear it” item, I will
pass. During cold and cooler times of
the year I opt for layered looks. Will wears colored jeans, corduroys, or
sweats, a long sleeve shirt, and a sweatshirt, sweater or sweater vest. Oh boy
do I love sweater vests! Cute, low to no maintenance outfits are really easy to
find if you stick to basic rules – zippers, Velcro, and elastic.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09344183678657875911noreply@blogger.com0