Sinupret for Kids

Being a SheSpeaks member, I was enrolled to try a new product from Bionorica called Sinupret for Kids. My kids, especially Madelyn, could greatly benefit from this product. SheSpeaks sent me one free sample-size bottle (1.01 fl. oz.) of Sinupret for Kids syrup, a coupon for $3.00 off the product and a small bear for my kids to enjoy. I tried Sinupret out on Madelyn, since she has been dealing with the runny nose and coughing lately. She didn't mind the taste, and just took the dose. I gave her 3-4 doses and it seemed that the Sinupret worked great for her. I didn't try the Sinupret for Kids with Caleb and Nathaniel, but I plan to use it with them, too.

Sinupret for Kids is a safe, natural remedy that supports a healthy sinus, respiratory and immune function. No other clinically tested natural remedies are available in the US that supports all three functions. Sinupret and Sinupret for Kids are two of the world's leading herbal remedies for upper respiratory health for adults and children, ages 2 and up. Sinupret for Kids is available in a cherry-flavored syrup.

Bionorica has given me a link to offer you a coupon to get $4.00 off of your purchase of Sinupret for Kids! Just click THIS to get your coupon. Feel free to share this link with your family and friends, too.

Thanks SheSpeaks for this product review sample!

Sickness

Sickness looms it's ugly face in our household again. Madelyn is striken with the fever for two days. Poor little princess. Today she spiked up to 104.5 with the temporal artery thermometer! I took her in, and low and behold, she just has a virus~ well, that is what the Doc recommended. She is very clingy, and miserable. So, I apologize that I can't write too much for the personal posts right now. I will keep you all updated. I do have much to blog, but for now, my daughter's needs are great.
Tonight, Caleb woke up with a croupy-sounding cough. He was very irritable, and coughing uncontrollably! I brought him into the bathroom, because I feared the upheaval! A few times while he was coughing, a dribble of blood came out of his nose. I assume it is because it is dry in our house. I will keep an eye on him (and Madelyn) tonight, though. I gave him an Albuterol treatment, got the humidifier set up in their room, and got him back to sleep. So, we will see how tonight goes.
Pray that my children will be healed, and that the rest of us will be spared! Thank you so much! More tomorrow...hopefully. We will just see how my kids are fairing.

Hot, Hot Baby!! Thermometer giveaway!

When kid's get hot, and you don't know what their temperature is, it can be a challenge getting a correct reading. I am not a big fan of taking a temperature rectally, even though that is probably the most accurate reading. I was excited to review the Temporal Scanner Thermometer from Exergen. This thermometer is so slick, and takes an accurate reading by scanning the temporal artery. Using just 2 batteries, you take off the lid, place the tip on the child's forehead, and click the power button. Then, you slowly move the thermometer across the forehead to the top of the ear/hairline. The forehead has the temporal artery, and it contains your body's heat. Here are some stats about the thermometer from the Exergen site:
First it scans like a video camera, capturing naturally emitted infrared heat from the arterial blood supply at about 1000 “frames” per second, locking in the highest temperature it senses and;
Second, at the same time, a patented system measures the ambient temperature of the site where the temperature is being taken. The patented "arterial heat balance" (AHB) software then synthesizes the two separate readings to accurately determine and display body temperature.
It is important to read the directions carefully so you can get the best, and most accurate reading. One key step is removing the plastic covering. I made that error one time while trying this product out. My daughter thought it was her phone when I took it out of the packaging. That was pretty funny.
Exergen Temporal Scanner is so easy to use, and you can take your child's temperature while you snuggle them~ which is what they want most when they are not feeling well. Guess what? You can enter to win one for your family! Go to the Exergen site, and leave a comment about something you found out about using this thermometer. Contest open to those in the USA. Giveaway ends April 15th, 2009.
You can purchase this at Walmart, Sam's Club, and several other places. Thank you to Exergen Temporal Scanner and Family Review Network for this great review and giveaway opportunity!
You may comment on as many other posts (that I have written in the past) as you want to for an additional entry, just leave the url in your additional comment! You have many chances to enter this contest! In order to qualify, you must do what is required. You may come back each day and enter (again) after you do the first rule, just tweet about this giveaway and leave the url in your comment AND/OR Click here to see how you can earn even more extra credits to win!! Click here to see guidelines and the official rules.

Sickness

Caleb was snuggled in my bed this morning when I woke up with Cole (at 5:30 AM). It isn't uncommon to find a child sleeping in "Terry's spot," when I wake up. Most nights, lately, Madelyn is sleeping in between us. She has had a rough time with her teeth coming in. I think she is getting all the rest of her teeth. It is nice for them all to come at once, but not so nice to her moods. Madelyn is a very touchy-feely gal, so co-sleeping is really right up her alley. Plus, if she is happy, and sleeps better, I am not going to kick her out of our bed. It is getting a bit cramped up though, because Cole tends to stay in our bed quite often, too. It is just warmer, and easier, if he just stays near me. I am too tired to keep putting him in the bassinet next to our bed. Anyway...little tangent there, sorry.

Back to Caleb...
He was laying in "Terry's spot," shortly after Terry left for work. He was playing with his new belt from Chesapeake Ribbons, and making a lot of noise. He loves his new belt, and I am glad he likes it, but I wasn't happy that it was a toy keeping him (and me) awake. I am not a morning person, and I like to sleep in~ well, at least until 6:30/7:00. After I took his belt away, and tried to get him, Cole and myself back to sleep. Well, it wasn't happening. Not only was Cole fussing~ he wanted to be up and talked to~ Caleb started complaining about his tummy hurting. I told him he was probably hungry. Nope, not so much. He started moving around on the bed, and kept complaining, then he coughed...gagged, and it was all I could do to get him off the bed. I was nursing Cole (laying down) at the time. I jumped out of bed fast, and guided Caleb quickly to the bathroom. He managed to get some on our floor (YUCK), and I held his head over the toilet. Poor guy! I have a weak stomach, so I had to really not think about it. This was a great way to start the day. He had 3 more episodes throughout the day, and a fever this evening. He took 2 naps (thankfully). We didn't give him any fever reducer this evening, because we would like to see if it can break on it's own, and fight the virus.
I am not going to stay up anymore, just in case we have a rough night, or morning. Really, I probably stayed up too late as it is.
I hope tomorrow is a better day, and that Caleb is well. I sure hope no one else gets it in our household!

Cole is growing!

I had Cole in for a 2 week well baby check yesterday and he is growing! He is now 9 pounds! He passed up his birth weight~ yippee! The Dr. said that he looks great, and his jaundice has cleared up. Cole's abrasions and sores on his head are really clearing up. The blood pooling is still there, but over time, it should go away. He is so cute, which helps, because he sure can be fussy. I think it is probably because he poops as much as he takes breaths of air. Seriously, it seems that way! I do have to say I am pleased with his sleeping pattern at night time. He will sleep a good 3-4 hour stretch! I love that! I hope he keeps up the good sleeping.
On Saturday, he cooed at me. He has smiled at me (almost daily) since he was in the hospital. I think that is amazing. I love his smile! I look forward to him doing that all the time.
The kids love having a baby boy in the home. Maddie and Caleb love kissing him! Nathaniel keeps commenting on how cute he is. I am still in awe over the fact that I have 4 kids! I have already received the comment, "Are all those kids yours?" I want to just say, "Nope, I am just a babysitter..."
I will try to keep you all up to date. I am sorry I haven't been in the blogging world too much. I will try to be better about updating. Here is some of the latest happenings in the Sassyfrazz home, and this will explain why I haven't been online too much.
A few weeks ago (right before Cole was born) Madelyn was diagnosed with pneumonia. It was a freaky thing, but she didn't have to be hospitalized! I am so thankful for that! Could you imagine both of us being hospitalized for two very different reasons? That would have been horrible!
Then, when Cole was just over a week old, Nathaniel came back from a visit to his Dad's sick. It turned out to be Strep throat. We dropped him off on a Friday night, and that very night, Madelyn threw up in the van. Not only did she throw up once, but several times...to the point of her car seat not being functional. We ended up stopping to buy her a cheap outfit, so she wasn't stuck in the nasty mess...and to keep her warm. Then, Terry held her all the way home. Yes, it was illegal, but what else could we have done? We also had to pick up Terry's car, which was at his work. So, I drove with Madelyn buckled in the front seat (praying she didn't have another round on the way home~ another 22 miles). That Sunday, Nathaniel was picked up~ and he was sick. He had a fever and cold all weekend. On Monday, he didn't have school, and he complained about his throat being very sore. So, Terry brought him in, and strep culture was positive. That was lovely. Madelyn's flu bug lasted a total of 5 days. She didn't have any episodes on Saturday, then had it on Sunday and Monday. Monday night was the worse of it...like 8-9 times. We were really concerned for her, especially since she is so little anyway. So, now after a week later...our family is healthier. I am so thankful~ thank you God for your healing!

My brother and his wife welcomed their second child into the world 10 days after Cole was born! I am so excited for them! They have a 3 year old girl, and now a baby boy! Cole and his boy cousin are only 10 days apart! Isn't that fun? I am so excited for them!! Her delivery went well, and baby and her are doing great! I can't wait to meet him!

One of my other brothers is getting married this summer, and he called recently to see if Caleb could be their ring bearer! How cute!! Two of my other nieces are going to be flower girls. It will be so darling to see them all together. I hope Caleb will do it alright. He isn't really big into being put on the spot, so we will see.

So, that is what is new with me and our family. We are very saddened over some recent news. Our former pastor just passed on from this life to his eternal home. It was very unexpected. He was an amazing man, and on fire for the Lord. He was an evangelist, and lived his life fully for Christ! Last Tuesday, he went in for hip replacement. He was doing well, but on Wednesday, he suffered 3 heart attacks. He went through heart surgery, and they found he had over 90% blockage in his arteries. Over the next few days, he had the oxygen on and ventilators. Saturday morning, he passed away. So, please be in prayer for his family. We will miss him, and he sure was a warrior! He was the one who baptised Terry 3 years ago. He is very special to us. The funeral is on Wednesday.

Sick kids...and a break for mom~

My kids started a cold over the last weekend. Through the week, they both had slight fevers, runny noses and coughs. Maddie's cough was really bad on Tuesday and Wednesday. I told my husband that we should probably bring her in on Thursday if she isn't better, because we won't want to make an ER trip over the weekend. Well, on Thursday during the day, she seemed OK physically, but she was like Saran wrap, and wanted to be attached to me all day. I could tell that she wasn't a happy camper, and not feeling well. (see how very little I wrote blog posts the last few days). Thursday morning, she fell asleep in the morning, which is very rare for her anymore. In the afternoon, she took a 2 1/2 hour nap, and I just laid her in bed. She didn't complain about going down for a nap at all, and that is not her norm either. Taking a 2 1/2 hour nap for her is really unheard of. She is not a big napper. When she woke up, she was on fire! I took her temp and it was 102.5 under the arm! POOR BABY GIRL! She was also breathing funny and kind of holding her breath. Caleb has had pneumonia in the past, and I was afraid that is what Maddie had.
So, after talking with Terry, I brought her (and the boys) into Urgent care. The Doctor looked her over, and "clinically" she seemed healthy, however, the Doctor knew she wasn't OK. He ordered a blood test for a viral or bacterial infection, and wanted chest X-rays. Her blood test revealed a viral infection, and her X-rays showed pneumonia. Fortunately, I brought her in early enough, so she didn't have to be admitted to the hospital! THANKS BE TO GOD!! Really, I don't know how things would have been if she had to be admitted! Could you imagine if she was admitted then I was admitted to deliver a baby in a different hospital? How awful would that be? I am very thankful that God is protecting us and watching out for us. He is always blessing us! Her pneumonia was caught early enough, and baby is waiting a bit longer to keep safe from the germs. Madelyn is on a medication and is getting nebulizer treatments of albuterol. She is doing pretty good on day three of her medications, and I am thankful that her breathing is improving.
It was a stressful week with sick kids, aches and pains of being an over-stuffed penguin...a..ka pregnant feeling the bliss of end of pregnancy joys and just wanting the time to go quickly to the due date. I am so thankful that I was able to go to the monthly Ladies Night Out. What therapeutic release. We went to a ladies home for this month's LNO, and we had a blast laughing, talking, playing games, and just enjoying our women friendships! I so needed to be with my friends and just release the stress in laughing myself silly. What fun we had, and I didn't get home until 3:30 this morning. Then, my wonderful husband let me sleep in because I needed the rest! He is so good to me! I know it will be my morning to wake up with the kids, tomorrow. We have a great "unwritten" plan on weekends taking turns letting the other one sleep in. It is wonderful! I hope you all are having a great weekend!

Tis the season

I know that sickness looms this time of year. The only real dread I get in the winter months is the Doctor bills go up significantly. We are on new insurance right now, no co-pay, but we pay until our deductible is met. This can mean we pay a huge bill before our insurance will kick in. I haven't had to take Madelyn in yet, and I am really hoping to avoid the clinic. Madelyn is on day 3 of being sick. Poor little honey. She had a bit of a runny nose on Sunday, but I am not really counting that. Her fever started on Monday morning. So, being on day 3 with the fever, she is ready to start getting well. To top of feeling crummy, she is teething. She has the gunky nose today, and she is kind of clingy. At least she slept better last night. She did wake up at 4:30 and complained for an hour. Finally she drifted back to sleep until 7 AM. I was glad for that. 4:30 in the morning is not a happy-time-to-be-awake kind of time.
So, I am hoping she will get well very soon!
Caleb started his cold on Monday, and then on Monday night, he woke up about 11 PM throwing up in bed. EWW~ is right! I have a feeling he threw up because of the phlegm in his throat. On Tuesday morning he woke up happy, and he ate fine all day. I am glad that passed as quickly as it came! He still has a runny nose, but he is doing good despite of it.
Terry was dealing with the cold symptoms this morning. I hope it doesn't last for him. That would be miserable with working all day sniffing and blowing his nose.
So far, Nathaniel has just had slight colds and stuffiness. Currently he is doing good. He has a great immune system and he can fight things off well...but he is in public school, and he can pick up and carry a ton of germs! I am just hoping we can make it through these wintery months generally sick-free.
I am not sick, and I hope to remain healthy! :)

My poor little sweet pea

Madelyn is fighting some kind of nasty. She started feeling ill last night when we had the grandparents over for a supper celebration for Nathaniel's birthday. She did fine, until the end of the night. She was feeling a little warm...OK, maybe it was a lot warm. So we gave her Tylenol and she went to bed. She woke up around 10:30, and Terry brought her downstairs. He said she was on and off with sleep, but she was mostly awake. At 1:30 AM, Terry crawled into bed with her after giving her more Tylenol. She was wide awake, kissing and hugging me. He said that he was playing his game on the computer with his Dad. Most of the time when Terry plays his computer game (Age of Empires) it puts Madelyn to sleep~ understandably :). Not last night, though. She was sitting on his lap saying, "horse!" and other words. I don't understand that. So, anyway, she is in bed with us...super hot. After the meds were in her system for 45 minutes, she was still hot. I put her in lighter jammies, and waited out her restlessness. Somewhere around 3:30 she ended up falling asleep and I was dozing soon thereafter. She has been very cuddly and just not herself today. She can keep her mood happy for the most part...which is super! At one point today, her temp got to 102.2 under the arm. So, being it was under the arm, it was a little higher than that. Poor little hunny! I hope she sleeps better tonight. Speaking of which...I should get to bed. More updates tomorrow! I have lots to catch up on!

Maddie and Caleb~ etc.

Last night was a rough night. Maddie and Caleb were both up....A LOT! I gave Madelyn Tylenol, and Terry gave her cough meds. Caleb ended up getting cough meds., too. Then, Madelyn decided to get up at 5:40. She was having such a fit crying and hollering at me. I finally got it out of her that she just wanted to get in the pack in play (at the end of our bed) and watch some cartoons. I was thinking that it was way to early for her to be up! At least I got to rest a little longer with her in there. I was thankful that we were able to be home today, so that Caleb can get his much needed nap, and I could sneak a nap in to.

Tonight, we went out on a pontoon ride. It was really nice out for the first half of the ride. The temperatures were perfect. We did have on our coats and hats, but we have to get in those rides while we can. We will be taking the speed boat and pontoon out before the end of October. I love looking at the fall colors on the trees. Fall is, by far, my favorite season!!

Tomorrow I have my Bible study in the morning. We are going though one of Beth Moore's studies: Stepping UP...the Psalms of the Assent. It is a great study! It is really showing me that I haven't been making my quiet times with God a priority. There is "homework" of 5 lessons for the week. I have been unfaithful in doing a daily lesson. Our relationship with God is work sometimes. It takes time, obedience, and commitment. It's not that I don't want to spend time in study and prayer...it's that I find too many other things that I need to do, or (as bad as it sounds) want to do. I know that I need to make more of an effort to make the time, and to schedule it in my calendar.

I took her to the Doctor, and the Doctor said....

I made an appointment for my little princess this morning, because she had a rough night with struggling to breath. Her breaths were staggered, quick, and she would hold her breath some. Terry thought it would be best if I just brought her in rather than wait the weekend, and end up making a visit to the ER. I couldn't agree more. Those trips to the ER are quite pricey!
So, my Mom (bless her heart) came over this morning to watch Caleb for me, so I could go to the Doctor with just Madelyn. Last time I went in to the Dr. (for my baby appointment) Caleb and Maddie were all over that office and into everything! So, I pleaded with my Mom to come over. She lives 40 minutes away, so it is somewhat of a sacrifice for her, and I appreciated it so much! Anyway...at the office, the nurse checked her weight~ 20.6 (with all her clothes on and her shoes), temp. was 98.9, and her oxygen level was 91-92. I thought that was good, until the nurse told me they like to see it at least at 95. So, we went into the room and waited for the Dr. He checked her lungs and they sounded clear. Hmmm...so, checking her left ear, and sure enough~ an ear infection. Checking the right ear, there is another infection. So, my little girly has a double ear infection. She is teething, so that could be a reason that the ear infections came. I got her a prescription for Amoxicillin. So, hopefully that will work for her. She did get 2 doses today, and that is super!

**Other things...
Terry and I used the Wii Fit tonight. I am really liking this contraption more and more. I did some aerobic exercises tonight, and I really like the hula-hooping, running, and stair stepping. It really is a great work-out. I tried the yoga balancing, and let me just tell you, that does NOT work well with a baby (in utero) throwing your center of balance into shambles!! I am sure I was quite the sight! It was a blast being in action, and knowing it was exercise, too! The Wii Fit has my vote for sure!! I highly recommend getting it if you don't have it already! Good winter exercise (especially if you don't have a club membership).
Tomorrow, my Mother-in-law is coming for a visit over-nighter. It will be great to see her again. I have an awesome Mother-in-law! Tomorrow night she is going to watch the kids for us, because we are going to my Mom's yearly performance with her barbershop group and quartet. My Mom has been in this group for over 15 years, or maybe it is almost 20.... I will have to ask her. The group is about 30 ladies. They put on quite a show!! Then, my Mom's quartet also performs. After the show, we go to another place for the "After Glow." This is even more signing, and food. It is a grand time. I hope someday, when my children are older, I can join this great group of barbershop singing ladies! Some of my brothers will be there with their wives, and my brother with his fiance will be there. My aunt and uncle will be there, too. It will be fun to see family, too.

Maddie is sick and other things...

Today we hung out around home. Madelyn is not feeling well today. She has a bad cold (runny nose, cough, a bit of wheezing) and tonight she was breathing short and quick. I nebulized her before bed, and I hope she gets a good night sleep. Poor baby. It is so tough when they don't feel well. I just hope (and pray) that she doesn't end up with pneumonia from this. She was a bit warm this morning, and again this evening, but it wasn't a fever really. She is more clingy. Her eyes are a little red and puffy, too. We will see how tomorrow goes. I am not sure if this is allergies, teeth, cold, or contagious. I know she is working on a couple of teeth, and I am sure that is adding to her discomfort and cold symptoms~ even though most Dr.s will argue that. I consider myself a "seasoned mom" by now, and I can contest that every time my kids spouted more teeth, they cold a cold or ear infection.

Today, my Wii Fit arrived! Hoorah! It is a lot of fun. Terry is hula-hooping right now. It is a work out, and mostly about balance. It was rather embarrassing finding out my BMI and weight. URGG...gotta get myself in shape, lose weight, and get better balance/posture. No wonder I suffer with back issues. I am sure this Wii Fit will help our entire family. Terry, Nathaniel and I have all worked on it so far. I hear that they are putting the Wii Fits into nursing homes right now...very good idea! I wish I could have got this for a review product! :)

Last night, I was rolling over and trying to get up in bed when all of a sudden ~KAZOOWIE!! I was in immense pain! My whole side of my belly hurt like sharp knives scraping over it! OUCH! I know that I am stretching out all over but I have never experienced pain like that. I just sat sideways and cried. Terry said, "Are you OK? Can I help you with something?" I told him that I didn't know, and that I was just wondering how I was going to get up without it hurting me so bad! It was a horrid pain. It did get better once I had gotten up and got back into in bed. Pregnancy, oh the joys.

Back from camping

The weather for camping was simply wonderful! We couldn't have asked for better weather! In the mornings, the temperatures were a bit chilly, and it heated up throughout the day to warm temps, but not smoldering hot. I wish that Madelyn was not sick, though. Friday morning, she had a bit of a cough when she woke up, but I thought it was just from sleeping. Then, she had a late nap Friday (just before we left), and she woke up with a croup sounding cough. I asked Terry if we should just stay home. He said we should just go, and worst case, I take her home. I really probably should have stayed home (looking back). We got out the door at about 6 PM Friday night. We stopped at McDonald's for a quick supper, and fueled up. We drove an hour away to the campsite. It was a nice campground, but it really could use some updates. We had a nice spot, and there was great mature trees all around. We had a tent, slept 5 in it, and everyone around us had pop-ups or RV's. I really hope to own a pop-up someday. I think it would be so much easier with a pop-up, and you can pack all your camping gear in there. Also, IF it rains, you have a place to be where you won't get drenched on. Here is two pictures of Madelyn helping Dad with the tent set up.


Anyway, we had a nice time visiting around the campfire. We had s'more's and hobo pies (my favorite). Then, we went to bed. That is when Maddie had a hard time. She tossed and turned, cried, and coughed. For one thing, she likes sleeping in her crib, and she isn't used to sleeping with us anymore. But, she was getting a back cough~ to the point of not breathing well. I was thankful that we brought the nebulizer with. We ended up nebulizing her, which seemed to help. It was a night of waking up to her crying almost every 30-45 minutes, though. She wasn't running a temperature, so that was good. By morning, she was happy. She woke up happy and ready to go.
Saturday, we had a good and easy breakfast: donuts, cereal, bananas, milk, and juice. We like to keep it simple with camping and cooking. The less dishes, the better.

I was so tired from lack of sleep and being pregnant! I was a bit ornery, and I was trying my best to keep in good spirits. I think I did rather well. I know Terry wasn't having a great time, because it is a lot of work with little ones, a dog, and camping~ and he was needing a nap. So, by mid morning we went to town to get a swim suit for me, and 2 more camping chairs. We went to a Target and I found a "good deal" on a nice looking maternity suit. I also picked up some sunscreen and 2 chairs. I got a pink chair for me. I knew it was a good time for Terry to catch some shut-eye while Nathaniel and I went shopping. Caleb and Maddie got in a good snooze, too. Then, we were on our way back to the camp. By this time it was lunch time. I was telling Terry what I had planned for lunch. He decided it was easier to just go through Burger King, so that is what we did. I didn't mind...Burger King is yummy, and it saved on time for us.
When we got back to the site, Terry was great with letting me go lay down. I got in a good nap. Then, we all went swimming. Maddie was so tired at this time. She just laid her head against me. After swimming, in the very cold pool, we all showered up. Maddie didn't even make a peep when I was showering with her. She normally is chattering away and giggling~ but, she was super tired. Then, she got in her second nap.
We went back to our camp site, and we all got ready for supper. That night we had a potluck and made our own meat. It was really good! We had so much fun and great conversations. Nathaniel and L. went paddle boating, and Terry, Caleb, and Lena went paddle boating. They had a great time. L. took Nathaniel in the canoe, too. I really should have taken a picture of that, because that was Nathaniel's first time in the canoe. He said it was so much fun. Nathaniel spent most of his time down by the lake (it was pretty much a little pond). He loves looking for fish, snails, turtles...you name it. If we ever wondered where Nathaniel was, we looked down at the lake first.
I decided to take Maddie home that night. I am so glad I did! I left the camp at 9:00 PM and we got home about 10. She fell asleep about 10:30, after sleeping in the van most of the way home. I fell asleep about 11:00. She woke up at around 2:30 coughing really bad, so I nebulized her and gave her cough meds. Then, she was back to sleep. At 4:30, she woke up crying really bad, and she was burning up~ REAL HOT! I couldn't find our thermometer, but I knew she was really hot~ her arms were even red. Then, she threw up. It was mostly clear liquid, and didn't have an odor, so I knew it was because she was burning up. She guzzled some water, and I got some Motrin in her. Poor Baby! I sat up with her for about an hour while I held her upright as she slept. I wanted to make sure the Motrin was going to stay in, and keep an eye on her. She laid in the Boppy pillow on our bed next to me. It was a rough night. She had a fever most of the day on Sunday. She didn't eat very well for breakfast, and just wasn't happy at all. We went back to the campground to get the boys, and load up all our stuff. Just when we were getting ready to go, Terry and I were changing Maddie and Caleb's diapers. Maddie was climbing up on the picnic table, and she fell~ cutting her mouth. She was crying so hard, and blood dripped out of her mouth. If things weren't bad already, this topped off her morning. POOR SWEETY!
So, we went home, unloaded, did laundry, took naps, ate supper, and got to bed early. I am glad we are home. I hope next time we camp, everyone will be healthy. I am sorry I didn't get more pictures.
I really do love to go camping, but I do think it is a challenge when our kids are so little. Maybe it would be better with just our family, then we wouldn't be stressed out with our tots into other people's things, or touching things that aren't ours. Have any of you experienced more stress when you camp with friends...with your kids getting into other's things, or wanting to go in their campers all the time?

Now I know what it is...

I brought Maddie to the Dr. He said that the rash was probably caused from fevers all week. When he pushed on the spots, they went away, then when he lifted his fingers they reddened again. He said that is similar to a heat rash, or a rash from fevers. If the redness didn't go away, that would imply that maybe it was a viral rash of some sort. She does have a double ear infection. I am thinking this may be her first ear infection. He said there was quite a bit of fluid in there. I feel so terrible for not bringing her in on Monday or Tuesday, but it is hard to know if it is "just a virus that has to run it's coarse," or it is something more serious. Well, I am glad to know that she will be treated with Amoxicillin now, and she should start perking up tomorrow night or Saturday! YEAH!! I also picked up Poly-Vi-Sol vitamin drops for her, toddler vitamins for Caleb, and the infant Tylenol and Motrin drops. So, I am going to make sure that Caleb and Maddie get vitamins everyday now. That won't hurt them, and maybe it will help protect their immune systems better.

Maddie is NOT better....

Yesterday, I thought Madelyn was on the mend with only having 2 messy diapers in the morning, and pretty much just the low grade temps. We even went for a family bike ride before supper to get some fresh air, and enjoy being outdoors (even with the mosquitoes). BUT, last night, just after supper, she got a fever again. She felt pretty hot. So, I gave her some Motrin. She fought sleep pretty good. Terry and I played a little Dr. Mario and she woke up. She seemed in good spirits, and she toddled around while we finished up playing our game. Then, Terry went to bed, and I nursed Maddie to try and get her to sleep. She was warm, and so I took off her sleeper jammies. I noticed she had a rash all over her tummy and her back. This is concerning to me. I thought maybe it was a heat rash, but I wasn't so sure. Then, she had a horrible night. She was very irritable, and didn't sleep well (neither did Terry and I). This morning, her face is swollen, she is running a fever, and she has the rash. So, in just a little bit, we are off to see the Doctor. Please pray that my little baby will fight this off and get healthy ASAP! Thank you~~

Madelyn is on the mend

I have not been blogging as much this week, because my baby has been pretty sick. That, and with being pregnant, I have been tuckered out.
It has been a long week, so far, with Madelyn and her sickness. I am pretty sure it was/is a virus, but I think we are FINALLY on the tail end of it. She was pretty miserable most of the last 4 days. On Monday, her temperature actually got as high as 104.2 under the arm!! I have never seen the thermometer go that high on one of my kids! It was pretty scary. She has had so much Motrin and Tylenol the last 4 days. I am actually surprised how long the fevers lasted. Last night, her fever was 102.5 under the arm, and sometime during the night we think her fever broke. Yesterday she had about 4-5 diarrhea diapers, and today she had two. She woke up with a slightly elevated fever, and with a diarrhea diaper, we did stay home from babysitting today, too! We have missed so much babysitting with my kids being sick so much this year. It is not good for our pocketbooks, and it definitely doesn't help out Candace with us missing, either. I know she is understanding, and for that I am so grateful.

Praise God that Madelyn is doing better. Even her mood is a bit better today...even with her firey temper! :)

Caleb's 3rd Birthday party~

Saturday was a fun day for Caleb. We went to the city parade at noon, and he got to see the BIG FIRETRUCKS, the BIG TRACTORS, and the BIG SEMI TRUCKS! He thought the parade was super! He gets so excited to see the big vehicles! He really liked the motorcycles and trikes, too! Him and Madelyn got so much candy! They also got a Mr. Freeze and a Beer hat (to which we gave away). Oh, and they each got a Rice Krispie bar, too! Madelyn didn't even freak out from all the sirens and loud honks. I was impressed by that. We ate some hot dogs and chips at the parade since the parade started at noon.

After the parade we came home and had about 20 minutes before the party was going to start. So, Caleb didn't get a nap, but surprisingly he did great. He got some really nice presents (a lot of clothes)~thank you! Great Grandma made him the requested Batter Batter Baseball cake. He had told her he wanted the colors green, blue, orange and red. AND Sprinkles. That is what she did! The cake turned out great, even though she complained about it...Caleb loved it! We went out on a pontoon ride, and the little boys with Madelyn loved walking/crawling around looking out. They had so much fun. We even got to help out a boat that was not running, so we pulled it into shore. In the evening, my parents stayed for supper and it was great to visit with them longer, too. We had baked chicken, corn on the cob, potatoes and salad. It was delicious! Cheryl had brought a pie, so that was the dessert~thanks, Cheryl!

So, Today is Caleb's official Birthday! I remembered throughout the day where I was and what I was going through 3 years ago today. His birth wasn't the easiest out of the three, but he was so worth the pain! I had 3 epidurals with him, since the first two were put in wrong. I was also induced (and my body was NOT ready for labor). But, he did need to come out because the amniotic fluid was so low. I delivered him about 7:30 in the evening. So, the labor (after the Petocin was put in) lasted about 12 hours. Not too bad.

He was happy most of the day, but he is running a bit of a temp, has a cough and is complaining of his ears again. I hope he will just get healthy soon. Maddie has a cough today, too. It is hard to know if some of it is allergies or not. We went to church today, then had lunch at home. This afternoon, I got to lay down with Caleb for his nap. I didn't get much of a nap, but something is better than nothing. Then, this evening (after a tornado warning swept the area) we went to Menards to check out flooring for our dining/kitchen area, carpet for the store, and ceiling ideas for our hobby store. Then, we decided to grab McDonald's head home, and enjoy a picnic on the pontoon. It was such a nice night. Caleb had fun having a picnic on the boat.

I am excited again!

I was so relieved today to get the news that everything is looking great with the pregnancy so far! I called the clinic today around noon to see what the results were. The lady said that the NP wasn't in today, and she would be in tomorrow. So, I asked her as kindly as I could, "So, there is someone else that I can talk to and can tell me the results TODAY, right?" So, she said another NP would call me back. Within 5 minutes, the other NP called me and told me the results weren't in yet, and she would call me when they came in. So, all afternoon I waited, and waited, and WAITED. Then, when I got home at almost 4:00, I saw no one had called when I was gone, so I called the clinic again. The NP called back and said that the blood sample was sent a few hours away, and since my blood draw was at 5:00 yesterday (and the sample didn't have a STAT on it), I may not have the results until tomorrow! What?? Oh no, I really can't wait until tomorrow! She must have known I was anxious, because she said, if any results come in before 5:00 when she leaves she will call. Actually, she said she will call either way. At about 5:04 she called and told me the results literally just came in...and everything looks great and normal! WOO HOO!! My numbers of HCG was 9,563 on Friday, and on Monday they read 22,028! Yeah! Thank you Lord! I was so happy! Now, I can relax some, and enjoy the pregnancy again. I didn't even tell anyone at our stamp club last night, because I was worried I may have to retrieve my words. So, now I can shout it out again~ I AM PREGNANT! :)

I babysat today. I ended up going a bit late, because Madelyn fell asleep in the high chair during breakfast. She doesn't take very good naps, so I called to see if it was ok that I would be late. I wanted to let her sleep and get some good rest. She has been having such a hard time with her teeth coming in. She has been wanting to nurse constantly. I don't really know what to do anymore. I want to comfort her, but I don't want her to just suck on me all day! Poor little honey! I really hope these teeth come in soon! I know that nursing my little princess will come to an end sometime soon here with being pregnant. I know she will have a really hard time with stopping.

Caleb started complaining of his ears hurting when we were on our way home this afternoon. I am not sure if he is suffering from a sinus issue, allergies, or a cold/ear infection. I will have to see what tomorrow holds. I hope we can go babysit miss Claudia. I may have to bring Caleb in to the Dr. tomorrow if his ears keep bothering him. I want him to be healthy and feel good for his 3rd Birthday party this weekend! Yep, my little boy is turning 3 years old! I can't believe how time flies by! It is a sad moment, but a fun milestone, too. I hope it will be a fun day for him. Terry's Grandma makes cakes, and Caleb asked her if she can make a batter batter baseball cake for him. He is all excited about that. I am not sure where he got the batter batter part, but it is funny!

Nathaniel was out all day on Saturday with his friend Austin. Austin comes here to visit quite often. His Great Grandpa lives across the road from us, and so him and Nathaniel have become great friends. So, Saturday him and Austin were busy playing near the stream and by their "fort." One time during the day, Nathaniel brought home a 5 gallon pail with about 20 toads in it. It was gross, but totally a boy thing. Nathaniel has a pet Salamander that he took captive last fall, and has been feeding and caring for it since in his 10 gallon aquarium. So, he had "Sally" out for the afternoon. In this 5 gallon pail were all these toads and poor Sally being bombarded by over zealous toads. Terry and I told him to get Sally out of there, and she probably wasn't very happy with the toad parade. Anyway, Nathaniel had a great and grand day. He was even told he could make money by picking up golf balls. Austin's G. Grandpa owns a Driving Range.

Thanks for the prayers

I think we are on the mend from the weekend. Caleb was still running a slight fever this morning, but he is on the mend. He is loving his funny sounding voice right now.

I am feeling a little better. I got hit with the cold stuff this weekend, too. I had a fever, chills, and runny/stuffy nose.

Madelyn was a complete bear this morning. She was hard to manage, and she kept having tantrums. She just wanted to nurse all day, and we all know that is not a go....so, I put up with some screaming tantrums. I really don't like to do that, but I really don't want her just using me as a pacifier. I feel bad for her because I am sure her gums hurt, but nothing is as good as mom's place, I guess.

Tonight I got to go to my stamp club. We make cards and then make an order. I love going to this once a month. It is a great time to enjoy my hobby, make some great new projects, learn new ideas, socialize (WITH OTHER ADULTS) :) and increase my supply to feed my hobby.
I got to see my friend Naomi tonight, and she brought a friend that I haven't seen in a few years. It was fun to see them tonight. I also go to the club with my friend, Lisa, so it was great to see her and her mom, too!

I really need to get to bed. I know this post isn't a very detailed post, but I needed to get some information up. Thank you to everyone who said they are praying! I greatly appreciate and covet your prayers. I had a second blood draw this afternoon. I will find out some results tomorrow afternoon. I still have to wait for the ultra-sound next Friday (May 30th). I do appreciate the kind and thoughtful words. :)
I will try to write more tomorrow.
Good night~

Friday

Well, yesterday, Madelyn was a bear pretty much all morning. She wanted to be held constantly, so I know she really wasn't feeling well. I think mostly her teeth are really bothering her. I really hope they burst through this weekend.

Caleb started a cough and a "headache" in the earlier afternoon, just before we headed out to go to the ultrasound. So, I gave him some Tylenol, and we left. I knew he was tired, too, and the timing of the drive was perfect for him and Maddie to sneak in a nap.

I went to pick up my friend, Lisa, because she offered to come with me. I wanted someone to be with me for two reasons, for support, and also to help with Maddie and Caleb if need be. So, she was willing to come. I am so glad she was with me.

The news from the ultra-sound was disturbing to me. It was calculating the baby to measure at 5 weeks and 3 days. I am still trying to figure out if that is possible, just for peace of mind. The tech saw the yolk sak and what looked like a possible lining starting. BUT, she didn't see anything else. No little baby, and no heart beat. It is possible that my timing is way off, and everything is normal for the pregnancy, but I am not so optimistic. I do want to say, that I am at peace with whatever the outcome is. It would be sad to not be pregnant right now, and not be adding on to our family at this time. However, I know that EVERYTHING is in God's timing, and HIS timing is perfect! If we don't have a little one on the way, I just need to remind myself that God has a plan, and He knows what He is doing. I will still pray for our little baby, and that he/she is healthy and growing.

On the way back from the ultra-sound, Lisa dropped me off at the clinic so I can request a blood draw to check the HCG levels. When a pregnancy is progressing normally, these numbers increase (basically double) daily. So, I had a draw on Friday, then I will have a re-draw on Monday morning. The NP informed me that everything is normal, and I really shouldn't worry. She was trying to talk me out of doing a blood draw, because she said the numbers can be deceiving. The numbers may or may not go up, but it really doesn't verify the progress. She said the best identifier would be the ultra-sound. I do have a re-check on the early ultra-sound for 2 weeks away. At that time, if everything is all good and normal, we will see a heartbeat. So, I will do my best to not worry or stress about what the results may be.

Another thing that happened on Friday....when Lisa dropped me off, she went to get Nathaniel from school. I gave her misleading and wrong directions, and she got lost...ended up at the wrong school, and we were all worried. Nathaniel's office called our house to see what was up, and since there wasn't an answer, she tried my cell phone. My cell phone went through the wash machine a couple of weeks ago, so that didn't work either. Then, they called Terry at work. Since he was 45-50 minutes away, he asked if someone could drop Nathaniel off at home! Oh what a mess! Fortunately, the Principal was willing and able to give him a ride. Lisa was a bit frantic, and she did catch up with them. After about 30 minutes of waiting, I got concerned and I called home. They were there, filled me in on what happened, and then Lisa came and got me. I feel terrible about giving her wrong directions, having Nathaniel waiting and worried, and having the school upset with me. That just added to my sad afternoon. I do thank Lisa for being willing to get Nathaniel, and for all her trouble. So, thank you Lisa!

Caleb was running a pretty good fever last night, has a nasty cough, and a really runny nose.
So, Now that Caleb is sick, I am dealing with either a cold or allergies and Maddie isn't 100% we decided to just stay home this weekend. I am sad we couldn't go up to see Terry's Grandma and Mom...and our other family. But, I do think it is wise to stay home to let our kids get over another round of the sicknesses.

Our house is under attack...

I feel like we have been hit with so much sickness lately, that it makes me think that Satan is attacking us. Caleb woke up at midnight on Monday night with a croupy sounding cough. He was miserable and didn't sleep well at all (neither did I). Then, he had a high fever on Tuesday, in which I gave him regular doses of Motrin and Tylenol. It was a rough night on last night between him crying because he had a head ache, chills, and a high fever....and Madelyn waking up. I had about 4-5 hours of sleep. That isn't uninterrupted because I have a nursing baby. I don't think the medications were helping bring the fever down at all. Then, this morning, he was up at 5 and crawled into bed with me. He was moaning and miserable. He was hot, and his head was really hurting. I gave him Motrin at 7, and about 10-15 minutes later he said he was going to puke. At least he warned me! I carried him into the bathroom, and sure enough, he threw up. I think he threw up because his fever was so high, and he felt miserable. He ate a little breakfast, and hasn't thrown up the rest of the day. His appetite hasn't been good this whole week. His fever has been down some today, but he is still running a temp. Now, this afternoon, Madelyn is running a temp., has a runny nose, and had a diaper that smelt like diarrhea. I think (and hope) hers is from maybe cutting teeth...I could only hope. Nathaniel was home sick on Monday, too. He has a sore throat, ear pain and low grade temps. I think he handles sicknesses better and his immune system is stronger. He did go to school on Tuesday, but he was in the nurse's station twice. He is still under the weather today, but doing a little better.
Do you think I should be more concerned about them being sick so much this year, like maybe something more is going on? Do you think it is more than just a bad case of getting/catching everyone germs? It is just so frustrating that they are sick every couple of weeks. I really just want to not go anywhere with them...ever! But that isn't possible.