Kurby Family Blog

Just for Laughs

2012-02-09T13:44:00.000-08:00

So this afternoon...like 10 minutes ago I was talking to a friend over e-mail and was telling her about the dance parties we have in our kitchen pretty much every morning and/or evening. We usually have music playing for most meals and the kids love to cut a rug with us in the kitchen while I cook or we clean up. So, I was reminded of Joey's awesome moves from a while back that we caught on tape...April 2010 which means we have some videotaping to do!

Tik Tok Dancin' from Phillip Kurby on Vimeo.

And then of course Vimeo pulled up old videos so I had to look at almost all of the ones we have blogged and just like I can't get through Joey's dancing without laughing out loud, I can't watch Josh's smile on Christmas morning (frothy nose and all!) without smiling back. Enjoy!

Josh Smiling on Chrismas from Phillip Kurby on Vimeo.

Playing catch up once again

2012-02-08T14:00:00.000-08:00

I realize just over a month has passed without any postings, we have been busy, but not a ton of pictures to show for it. We did get a new camera, but that is not even the reason for lack of posts or pictures, I have just been starting the year out lazy in that respect. So here is the last month or so in a nutshell starting from most recent:
Superbowl Sunday was spent with our friends Uncle Paul, Auntie Katherine, Ben, Abbey, and Juliette. They just got a puppy, Belle, who they brought home just the day before which we can't wait to meet, but with her travels it sounded like some down time might have been good for her at that point. We had seen them a few times just before and after Christmas but never at a time where we were able to do our Christmas exchange so we did it today! Everyone loved their gifts and we were very happy to have everyone over to play, watch the game, commercials, and Madonna!

Earlier in the day we went over to the Arboretum for the start of Celebrating Chocolate! They have a month of activities and classes all things chocolate this month and this weekend they had many vendors with everything from chocolate balsalmic to pure organic coffee chocolate bars! It was most delicious and free, and the weather wasn't too horrible so we were able to roam around the Children's Garden a bit.

So this sounds Arboretum heavy now, but the previous weekend we were there as well for the Huskies event where they had Huskies pulling sleds. This event was very, very cold but it was nice to get out of the house for a little bit. Nonna and Grandpa decided to brave the cold with us which made it fun as well!

We had a lot of things without pictures...lots of showers, birthdays (GG Rose turned 89 this past Sunday), and other events but here are some of the miscellaneous pictures we did manage to take.

Jill is continuing and loving dance class. Daddy has been taking her while Mommy and Joey go to Mommy and Me Bootcamp (I instruct and tell Joey I teach the moms and he teaches the kids!).

The kid had PJ day at school where they were able to wear their pajamas to school and bring a cuddly stuffed animal with. The smell of popcorn when we entered and knowing they were going in for Bible story with all the classes combined (so Jill and Joey would see each other) and having hot cocoa made me really want to be a part of the class!

And finally some random pictures of Java getting some attention from Joey and Jillian, the kids feasting on a dessert favorite (apples with Nutella!), and Dad's night at school where Joey and Jillian got to take Daddy to school for a night of fun!

First Day of School?

2012-01-07T14:21:00.000-08:00

First, forgot to take pictures but had the camera, Wednesday was also Auntie Christy's birthday! They just came home from the WI Dells so we went over for dinner and birthday cake! Happy birthday Auntie Christy!

Last March we had Joey start school a few months early, and he was only there March, April, and May for 1 day a week before summer vacation. In the fall he went back 2 days a week like a regular 3 year old going into preschool, and we called the fall his first official day of school. Joey has been and continues to be more of our homebody, perfectly content to play at home and is most comfortable in this environment. Jillian is the polar opposite, wanting to be out for her dance class paying attention to her teacher and ignoring me (rightfully so), always talking to other kids in bigger settings, and being much more the outgoing one. So, the decision was made that she could also start school one day a week after she turned 2 and was allowed into the 2 year old program.

Joey is usually not thrilled to say the least about going to school, he loves it once he's there, but again the issue of leaving the house is not up his alley. So last week we had gone out to get Jill a new backpack for school, and Joey kept saying now he'd be able to stay home...um, no. Even on Thursday morning he kept saying he didn't want to go, I told him he had to show Jill the routine, even though she is always with me for drop off and pick up, but somehow it all clicked with Joey and once they got their backpacks to head to the car they were both super excited (Jill never had a hesitation to begin with) and Joey showed her how to hang stuff in her cubby, where and how to go potty, wash hands, and since he starts 15 minutes before her, he told his teachers that his sister would be in school today as well. They looked at me with raised eyebrows knowing he usually is complaining at this time asking me to not leave, but I told them that Jill would be across the hall. Joey nodded to them and ran in to go and play, no crying, complaining, nothing! Settling Jill into her cubby I was able to peek into the window of Joey's room and saw him doing very well, not being held by a teacher, not crying, but happily going about his business. He does like school, the first 5 minutes or so though he usually sits with a teacher to read a book for a little extra comfort before he warms up, but not today.

Jillian walked right into her classroom and handed her teacher her Cuddle Bear- a bear she decorated and put a picture of our family on. The teacher asked Jill who was in the picture and Jill pointed out each person included Minnie, to her teacher. She never looked back or said goodbye. I left to go and teach a class, and then had some time to go grocery shopping solo! Upon coming back Jillian's teacher said no one would have ever known she was new or it was her first day. She said she played well and interacted with everyone and has a very clear and broad vocabulary. Jill even told another boy "no" when he took a toy from another boy. I laughed and the teacher said it was good that she helped set the boundaries, I told her she was just a boss! She also played really well laughing very hard according to her teacher with another boy playing with play fish. When I got there I was towards the back of the pick up line, and the teacher said she told Jillian I was there and she wasn't phased one bit. I was chatting with the teacher this whole time and Jillian barely turned to look at me. Once she did notice me, she was saying "Mommy, come on" wanting to show me all the things in the room. I told her we had to get Joey and I actually saw him sitting on the rug in the other room waiting to be dismissed, he saw me and smiled really big. He said he had a very fun day, didn't cry at all, and loved it. We finally got Jill to leave after a hug and goodbye to her new teacher. Mrs. K had Joey for those few months last year so she knows how different they are and was quite amused by their contrasting dispositions, although she said they do act very similar in some ways as well.

Anyways, here are some pics of the school girl getting ready for her day with a yummy breakfast, getting on her coat and back pack, and going to the car. Such a big girl!

On Friday, we went to the Arboretum to meet Auntie Miya, Nathan, and Jacob. It was the last day of the Enchanted Railroad so we wanted to go and see the trains one last time. Joey and Jillian had a lot of fun playing around before heading in to see the trains. Jillian was talking to Nathan and playing around with him, but she is a bit too outgoing at times and I think Nathan thought she was a little too much as she tried to hug him and chase him a bit. She had to go potty and there are no potties in that area, so I took off with her and left Joey with Auntie Miya and Nathan. Bad Mommy didn't tell him I was heading out for a minute so Jill and I came back to a not so happy Joey to say the least! Sorry Joey! Of course that set the stage for a mini meltdown where Joey just wanted to go home, not even to Auntie Miya's for lunch or to play. We hope to get together with them again soon and I won't up and leave him to wonder where we went and ruin the day...so sorry! But we did have fun in the short while we were together!

In the evening it was make your own pizza night where the kids really just wanted to eat cheese out of their bowls.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-04T12:28:00.000-08:00

New Year's Eve day the kids spent some time showing their new Christmas presents off to Nonna and Grandpa, and then after naps it was off to Grandma's for our evening celebration. We had a yummy appetizer kind of dinner with all the chips, dips, poppers, pizza, you name it there! The kids were playing very well together which was very nice to see, and we put on A Charlie Brown New Year's Eve special for them to watch. Daddy found a countdown clock for Grandma's computer so we counted down til 8pm where we celebrated the new year with a parade, horn blowers, hats, and excitement. Java even came along for the celebration, but we were home by 9:15 and in bed for the real new year!

New Year's day we had Jillian's birthday party with friends and family. Just like Christmas, Jillian appreciated each and every gift she got whether it was a toy or socks, she was sure to show everyone and shout out some exclamations of how awesome each gift was. She really enjoyed everyone singing happy birthday to her and looked what seemed like at each and every person, even those hanging out in the kitchen to make sure they were singing to her. She did her best at blowing out her candles and had the best Tinkerbell birthday ever!

Here are the kids parading in some of their new dress up items:

And finally today Jillian had her 2 year appointment where she did very well. As I was answering questions for the nurse, another asked if Jillian would be okay to walk with her to the scale. I told her yes, and Joey asked if he could follow them and took off out the door to catch up. He came back and said "20-40 Mommy." Jillian walked in and said "I stood on the box!" And then finally the nurse walked in and said "27 pounds, 6 ounces." The nurses and our doctor were very impressed with Jillian's achievements and couldn't get over the fact that she was in her big girl underpants! Here are her stats:
Height: 35 inches 78%ile
Weight: 27 pounds, 6 ounces 76%ile

Happy 2nd Birthday Jillian!

2011-12-30T13:09:00.000-08:00

In some ways it is hard to believe that Jillian is 2 years old, and in others it seems like she is going on 12! This morning Jillian woke up, and like Mommy went to make some coffee in her coffee pot (drips water), sat in her chair to receive her birthday phone calls and well wishes talking away, and then headed out to breakfast with Grandma, Auntie, Uncle Chris, Andrew, Emma, Joey, Mommy, and Daddy. After much attention and filling her tummy at breakfast we came back to the house to open some gifts before going to the Teenie Weenie New Year's Eve Ball! Much different than last year where Jill fell asleep on my shoulder with the dj's music blaring and not making it until midnight--12 noon-- today she was partying like a rock star! She is in full diva mode constantly amazing us, making us laugh, and making us shake our heads a bit too! Happy 2nd Birthday Jillian Grace!

Christmas Week in Pictures

2011-12-28T13:34:00.000-08:00

Before Christmas my Andrew and Emma's grandparents from NY were in so we were able to get together a few times with them to catch up. The first thing I had suggested for them to do was of course go to the Arboretum!

Christmas Eve service was at Joey's school church. The kids enjoyed singing songs, seeing our neighbor in the choir, sitting up front with the pastor talking about the toys he got as a kid and the magic of Christmas, followed by a cake for Jesus being ushered down the center aisle! We sang Happy Birthday to Jesus, had some cake and visited with our friends and then it was back home for a light lunch and naps. Christmas Eve was at our house with the Kurby side of the family: Nonna, Grandpa, Auntie Steph, Uncle Don, Mikey, and joining us a little later was Uncle Kevin, Aunt Nicole, baby Amelia, and Miranda. As the pictures show we all had a great time and the kids had a blast and loved each and every thing they got!

Christmas eve after everyone was gone and Joey finally made it to bed, Grandma and Jessie came to sleep over so they could be here in the morning. Grandma, Joey, and Jessie tried to get up at 4am Christmas morning, so Mommy had to go into their room and tell them it was a little too early! Santa did come and brought way too much. Even Java and Jessie had plenty of treats in the morning--Frosty Paws!

After playing with our toys and taking a short nap we headed to Assumption to say Merry Christmas to Josh who is so lucky to spend Christmas with the birthday boy-Jesus! (Although it is also Grandpa's birthday on Christmas day too--Happy Birthday!) Afterwards we drove to Grandma's for some more fun with Andrew, Emma, Auntie, Uncle Chris, Grandma, GG Joe, GG Rose, Mike, and Kathy. The food was of course delicious and Grandma got to use her new kitchen and dining area for her first real big meal! After dinner it was another obscene gift exchange and I think every kid got more than they even thought they wanted!

Monday was spent winding down, playing with all the things we got, visiting with Mike and Kathy, and wishing them a safe travel back home. Today (Wednesday) we had some free time and Daddy is still on vacation so we braved the cold and went to the Brookfield Zoo! The kids loved it, it was chilly but it didn't seem to bother anyone as we went from animal house to animal house.

We hope you all had a Merry Christmas! We are now getting ready for Jillian's 2nd birthday on Friday! Time sure flies!

More holiday fun...

2011-12-22T14:28:00.000-08:00

Last Friday we had the opportunity to see our neighbor Nicolas perform in Scrooge with a company in St. Charles. We had a great dinner, play, and dessert afterwards with the performer! Thank Beth and Dom for going out on a date with us...it had been a long time!

Last Saturday Jill had her dance class and Joey and Daddy came to watch as well. Joey and Daddy came in the room to take some pictures since you couldn't get a good shot from the tinted glass outside. Joey was a little bit of a distraction so they didn't stay in the room long, but Jill was in her glory showing all her dance moves and following her teacher through her exercises.

After dance class we headed to Nonna and Grandpa's so the kids could help them decorate their tree and bake some cookies. Joey and Jillian really seemed to get into it, and we heard they loved baking with Nonna too!

On Sunday we celebrated an early Christmas with Uncle Wayne, Auntie Carol, Jenn and Chuck, and Mike and Nikki. Auntie, Andrew, Emma, and Grandma were there as well and everyone was excited to open gifts and catch up. Thanks for a yummy brunch Auntie Carol! After heading home, Emma came back over for some fun play time while Andrew went to the Blackhawks game with his parents and Grandma. Emma had lots of fun decorating cookies, marching in our parades, and having a picnic with Jill.

Monday we went to Cosley Zoo with Nonna and Grandpa since we had the day off and usually that is their day to watch the kids. After looking at the few animals that were braving the cold and watching the zoo keepers count the tagged ducks we headed over to the Arboretum. Nonna and Grandpa hadn't been here with us before so Joey was happy to show them the ropes! And of course the trains too since they will only be there a few more weeks.

Finally, on Tuesday was Joey's Christmas program at school. Joey did a fantastic job ringing his bells, singing, reciting poems, and entertaining us all! A far cry from Halloween when he cried through the parade, this time Joey was very excited and jumping around when he shouted "hey!" in Jingle Bells. After the performance he brought us a secret present he had been working on at school...a snowflake ornament that he painted, glued glitter, and placed his picture in, a perfect keepsake ornament! After some cookies and punch we headed back home and Joey is officially on break!

Holiday Catch Up

2011-12-15T11:28:00.000-08:00

So it has been a long time since I last posted and a bit of stuff to catch up on. I am going to go a little out of order because I need to address something first and foremost:

The most wonderful Christmas gift we received was from Uncle Mark, Auntie, Miya, Nathan, and Jacob. We were delighted to have them over and be able to do a Christmas exchange, and were completely blown away by their thoughtfulness and generosity. IF you remember last year they gave us the awesome banners for the Joshua Charge for CHARGE run that we will use year after year. A very thoughtful gift and couldn't be topped. Well, I was overwhelmed with emotion once again to receive not only a beautiful family ornament with each person in our family represented, but also a memorial brick to be dedicated to Joshua. As you know, if not from my millions of pictures and posts of us spending time at the Arboretum whenever we can, or from me constantly talking about how great it is there, I love the Arboretum. I have gone there with friends, family, alone to run or mill around, with just my kids to spend some adventure time and picnic, or to just reflect. I feel very close to Joshua at the Arboretum, whether its because is a serene place or just a place where I find myself connecting a bit more while I run or play around, it has become a place I go when I want to do something fun and for me. I am lucky that Joey and Jillian have the playful energy and love the outdoors as well! I know they will have fun going to the Arboretum and looking for the brick with Joshua's name on it. We plan on being there when the brick is put in this spring, and will have Uncle Mark, Auntie Miya, Nathan, and Jacob there as well! It truly is a most thoughtful and generous gift that I cannot put my gratitude into words. I am thankful not only to have such a lovely gift, but the great friendship and support that Miya and Mark constantly provide. Thank you!

Unfortunately I do not take enough pictures when they are around because we are usually too busy talking and having fun, but I got a few of Joey and Nathan together. Nathan loves Java and I think Java likes the attention she gets when he's around!

Last Sunday (12/11) we had a busy morning. After church we headed over to Assumption to bring a Christmas tree. It was a bit cold so we weren't there long, and luckily across the street at Cantigny a friend of mine gave me an article about a train show! So we went in to see the Lego railways. It was very detailed and elaborate. After a bit of time there it was off to the Arboretum! (You know I can barely go a week without being there!) The Arboretum has an Enchanted Railroad with trains galore! When I had gone the week before I spoke with a lady that worked there and she said it was possible to spend hours there watching the different trains go by, so to bring a book if I brought my kids. She was right, Joey and Jillian absolutely loved it. Before going in, we noted where the brick in Josh's memory will be placed, it is a great area right when you walk in! We spent almost 45 minutes there before we made them stop for lunch. Of course they had us back in after lunch all the way up until nap time!

Last Friday (12/9) we woke up to finally a little bit of snow! Of course it is all gone now, but our fingers are crossed for a white Christmas anyways! Joey could not wait to put on his boots, hat and gloves and play in the snow, no matter how shallow and bare it was! Jill was initially hesitant, but then learned how much fun it is once you leave your gloves on! They found the little patch of ice from the grill container lid that had blown off so they were taking turns ice skating on a 10x12 piece of ice!

Saturday (12/3)we went to Joey's school for a yummy pancake breakfast and who did we meet...Santa! Joey enjoyed seeing his teachers outside of the classroom and loved telling Santa all the things he wanted for Christmas! Jill even sat on his lap and said a few things that she wanted too! (I think the pics are on Phil's phone so I will add those later). After coming home from breakfast with Santa we were ready to continue the festivities having Auntie Pam, Auntie Tiff, and Auntie Trish over for lunch, and to meet Auntie Trish's new puppy Chevy! Chevy and Java got along really well, and Joey and Jillian (as well as the rest of us) fell in love with Chevy, she is so cute!

Auntie Pam brought the kids a gingerbread house to put together and decorate! Of course Joey wanted to do it right away, but we waited until that evening and we assembled and decorated away!

On Sunday (12/4) Daddy and Joey along with Andrew and Grandma went to ride the Polar Express! They took a train ride, sang songs, visited with Santa, had some yummy snacks, and got an ornament too! We did this last year, and the boy seemed to have just as much fun this year too.

When I was younger, and even now, I would lay underneath the Christmas tree at night with my blanket and stare at the lights. I love the magic of Christmas and all the joy it brings. So each year I have made it a point to do it with my kids as well, and they enjoy pointing out the different colors, talking, and cozying up under the tree.

Finally some other random pics of the last couple weeks...

Thanksgiving

2011-11-26T13:08:00.000-08:00

I started my Thanksgiving with some really awesome women that I am lucky enough to work out with a few days a week. We drove out to Glen Ellyn to run 5 miles in a Turkey Trot. It was the furthest they have run, and they did an amazing job and made me so proud and lucky to have shared the morning with them. They are true rock stars! Great job Cindy, Barb, Pam, and Chrissy! Best start to Thanksgiving EVER!

In the afternoon it was off to Nonna and Grandpa's for our traditional Thanksgiving festivities. Daddy had met Scarlett before, but for the rest of us we were finally able to meet her! Baby Amelia was there too, who is a month younger than Scarlett (3 mos and 4 mos). Scarlett must have had some turkey earlier in the day because she slept through the festivities so there wasn't a chance to have the two babies together at the same time. Maybe next time! After a yummy, big meal and lots of desserts to top it off it was down to the basement for some games! Joey and Jillian had fun sitting with everyone playing LCR!

The next morning we had Uncle Chris, Auntie Brooke, and Scarlett over (awake the whole time!) for a Christmas gift exchange since they won't be here on Christmas. Joey and Jillian took to the gift opening quickly and loved all the fun things they got, thank you! The coolest thing I thought was the Sit 'N Spin! I want to check the box to see the weight limit because watching them on it brings back some memories and I can't help but laugh watching them spin around...especially Jill who has her own method of spinning. It was fun to get to play with Scarlett and get all 3 cousins together for a picture. Hope you got back home safe and sound!

Friday night we headed to Wheaton for the light parade. We hadn't seen it before so we didn't know what we were in for. We were pleasantly surprised to see a few bands, Elmo, Micky and Minnie, Buzz and Woody, the folks from the Wizard of Oz, a Snowman, lot of firetrucks, ambulances, and plows donning lights, a pile of coal, and of course Santa! It was a nice night to be outside, thanks Grandma for coming out with us!

Grandparents Day

2011-11-26T13:05:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday at Joey's school it was Grandparents day. Joey had Grandma, Nonna, and Grandpa come to his school so he could show them all the things he's been learning and doing. Joey loved showing them around and going out to lunch with just them and him! I went to conferences this past Tuesday and his teachers said that you could tell he really loves his grandparents!

Random pics

2011-11-26T13:04:00.001-08:00

Here are some random November pics of the kids... from Jill's Illini shirt from Grandpa and Joey decorating his tree to them cleaning the house!

Body By Joey

2011-11-26T12:59:00.000-08:00

Joey is in the process of not napping most days now. One day I was trying really hard to get him to nap so I could get a run in since I neglected to get up at 5am that morning! I had less than 1/4 mile to go when he was up or should I say demanding to not take a nap at all since he had been tossing and turning the whole time I was trying to run. So, when I got him he asked what I was doing and if he could exercise. I said sure, and he ran to get my yoga mat! He showed off his pilates/yoga moves for me before asking to head to the basement to run on the treadmill. I put the safety strap on him and kept the pace really slow, he insisted on me increasing it. As I did he laughed and would say "the house is really moving now!"

Joshua's Journeys #64 3 Years Ago

2011-11-19T12:03:00.001-08:00

Three years ago today Phil was in Florida on a trip for work. Josh had finally graduated from the NICU after his 126 day stay and we were settling into our routine of therapies, doctors visits, and appointments for pretty much everything under the sun. I was going in for a routine check on Josh's shunt. I had his tube feeding with me, along with his afternoon meds since the neurosurgeon's office usually meant a good 2 hour visit. As the nurse practitioner came in to look at Josh's shunt she noticed something white poking through. After some back and forth, and of course waiting for the doctor...the doctor I hate the most, he came in and it was decided that his shunt was actually popping through. In slight disbelief I asked the NP if that meant we were staying in the hospital and she said I should plan on it. Not having my pump, anymore milk for Josh, and Joey left with his grandparents it was a quick call before Grandpa showed up with my pump and parts and I was heading across the hospital with Josh, at this point not thinking we'd actually be admitted. Well, a few hours later it was official, Josh would need a shunt revision. That would entail 2 major surgeries, one to take the shunt out, a few days to let the spinal fluid drain where Josh would have to remain on his back and not moving so that the fluid could drain, and then another major surgery to put the shunt on the other side of his head. Once admitted I made the call to Phil to let him know our fate. He was not able to be reached. Later he called back when NICU nurse Tina stopped by to say hi to Josh and I after hearing of our admission, so I handed her the phone and she broke the news to Phil. Outside of worrying about the health of Joshua and how in the heck to keep a 4 month old baby from moving too much, I was wondering if we'd be home for Thanksgiving. It was this first readmission after Josh had finally made it home that I realized my life would never be something that could be "planned out" anymore. At any given moment our family could be split between 2 in the hospital, 2 at home, or some other juggle of sorts. The upside was that Joey was able to be in the PICU (whereas the NICU no siblings under a certain age are allowed even if they themselves were NICU graduates or twins). And since Josh had been home Joey and Josh had been side by side for meals, activities, and cuddle time. So it was important for us to allow Joey in to be with his big bro.

I was somewhat mopey today, not sure if it was the weather, the fact that Joey is so painfully shy sometimes, I was just not myself. Then I started thinking about the holidays, how Josh had come home from this hospital stay just in time for Thanksgiving, and I looked down at my watch to note the date. 11/19, the day we returned to the hospital. It is funny how Josh can still pull at my heartstrings and how I am still emotionally tied to him and can be "off" on certain days only to realize the connection of why or what the day means to us.

Joshua's Journeys #63 My Christmas Wish

2011-11-04T05:52:00.000-07:00

Phil and I have spoken in the past about how many pictures we have of Josh...I often say that on the blog when I do a Joshua's Journeys I now feel like I am repeating pictures. I think Phil and I did a great job taking as many pictures as we could of our time with Josh and Joey. I even took a picture of him stripped down in the doctors office showing the red line on his chest, knowing other doctors would be questioning what it looked like. I remember the neuros at Children's being impressed that I had the camera and the picture with me to show the line when it was almost a week after the fact and that line had gone done and they were trying to figure out what it was like before. Anyways, to come back from that tangent, I love and live for pictures of Josh...remembering the good and the bad of whatever was happening on that particular day or in that particular moment. I know I feel I have cached out pictures that we have but notice you each have pictures that I don't and from different perspectives. Of course there is no way to get my first born back, but I would love nothing more than to sift through pictures and reminisce about those times. So for Christmas this year I am not asking for something you can go out and buy... I am asking for a bit of your time. Please look through your pictures from July 3, 2008- March 14, 2009 and any pictures you have of Joshua I would love to have. I can supply you with a USB to make things easier on both ends--for you to just load your pictures and for me to be able to put them on my computer.

Happy Halloween!

2011-11-01T09:09:00.001-07:00

Sunday we had a Halloween party at Uncle Chris, Auntie Christy, Andrew, and Emma's house. There was tons of food, activities, and kids dressed up and running around! Earlier in the day I had pulled out some old costumes we had in the basement. Couldn't quite figure out how we had it, but we had a Superman costume in a kid's size. Turns out we forgot, but are so grateful that our awesome neighbors gave it to us last year even though Joey was a little too small for it. He still was quite small for it, but some safety pins got it fitter a little bit better and I'm sure he will wear that costume for a few years now! He decided Tow Mater was old news and once he saw and put on Superman there was no turning back! Good thing I got the Tow Mater costume for $3! And thank you to our great neighbors...he loves that costume and will be wearing it for years!

Yesterday, of course was Halloween! Joey was dressed in his costume all day long, while Jill sported a Tinkerbell shirt, but didn't get fully dressed in her costume until after naps. After naps we headed out on our block for a little trick or treating and then back home to wait for Auntie, Uncle, Andrew, Emma, and Grandma. They brought over some of the left over pizza so we heated that up while I distributed some fun Halloween place mats for the kids to color while they waited. After a little bit of dinner, glow sticks, and pumpkin flash lights we all headed out for another block and cul de sac. Joey and Andrew were running from door to door, Emma followed yelling "Hello!" as she approached the doors, and in princess fashion Jillian only did a few houses before insisting on someone putting "Pixie Dust" on her so she could fly aka be carried from house to house! Before we hit the end of our block we were greeted by a police man in his car who stopped to hand out candy to the kids. It was pretty cool to see the kids running up to the police car to get candy (good way to make friends Officer Friendly!). We made our loop and headed back inside to warm up and watch The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown! Happy Halloween!

2011-10-29T12:01:00.000-07:00

Sonny Acres
Last Friday we went to Sonny Acres to pick out our pumpkins, play around in the pumpkin patch, and of course a few rides! After dinner we headed back to Uncle Chris and Auntie Christy's house to carve our pumpkins. After the initial pulling the top off the pumpkin with Joey, Daddy pretty much did the rest all by himself. He made a great Tinkerbell for Jill and Lightning McQueen for Joey. Good job Daddy!

Saturday Lunch!
Saturday we went out to lunch at Pilot Pete's a restaurant by Schaumburg airport. Jillian loves airplanes and points them out to everyone all the time so she and Joey had a lot of fun looking at all the planes taking off, landing, and even one guy washing his plane!

Cuddly
On Tuesday Joey had his turn to take care of Cuddly the bear. Each kid in school gets to take Cuddly from Tues. to Thurs. and have him at home for some adventures. Then you have to write what adventures you and Cuddly went on and draw a picture. Joey was so excited to bring Cuddly home. He napped with him, had him at the table for meals, took him for a bike ride, went to the park, you name it whatever Joey did in those 2 days Cuddly was there! He was not happy about having to bring him back, but knew it was Kayden's turn next (one of his buddies) so he brought him back on Thursday.

Joey's school Halloween parade
Thursday Joey also had his Halloween parade and party at school. At 10:15 Daddy went in the classroom to dress him while Jill and I waited in the sanctuary. Shortly after Daddy's return and telling us how Joey did not want Daddy to leave, the parade started which was Joey staring at us the whole time half crying, not singing the song they learned, but trying to bee line back to us. After the parade and song was over we helped him decorate a treat bag, filled it up with all the treats from his cubby, had a bite of the Halloween goodies all the parents brought, and then went out to lunch. While we were at lunch Joey told us how much fun he had at the parade at school, and proceeded to sing the Jack-O-Lantern song he learned and was supposed to be singing earlier!

Meeting Jacob!
Thursday was also the day that Jacob Matthew was born! Nathan is now a big brother and his mommy and daddy looked so happy and ready to take on another boy when we went to visit them on Friday. It was so wonderful to hold Jacob, so light, gorgeous, and comfy! We were so excited to meet him and so happy to see that mom and dad were doing well too. Congrats Auntie Miya, Uncle Mark, and big brother Nathan! And welcome to our world Jacob!
I will get some pictures here soon (with parent consent), they are on Phil's phone!

And finally some miscellaneous pictures from the past week.

A full week we've been having...

2011-10-20T12:53:00.000-07:00

We have some fun things planned for our weekend but didn't want to lose things from this busy week in the shuffle of pictures and fun times!

Monday we decided was the day to upgrade Joey once again to Big Boy status with his bed and then give Jillian some freedom and Big Girl status of her own! When we ordered the cribs that convert into toddler beds and then headboard/footboard when Josh and Joey were not even here yet we made a mistake and only ordered one set of bed rails. Now that Jillian is potty trained and ready to get up if she needs during naps or at night time she needed to be allowed out of the crib and into her toddler bed. So we made the switch...Joey's bed (and eventually Jill's) turns into not a twin but a full sized bed! We now have a less than 30 pound kid being swallowed by a gigantic, comfy bed! And Jillian is ecstatic to not have to reach between slats to grab her books she can actually get out of bed and grab them if need be. So far they are both doing excellent in their big beds and absolutely love them!

Tuesday night after I was done with a class I had signed the family up (free!) to go to the library and hear a talk about bats, and even get to see some up close! Jillian was not so sure about them, but pointed out the other animals on the slides when the lady was talking, and Joey was very interested and was so excited when he was able to wear the "bat bib" and let a bat hang on him! Jillian was unsure but went along with it anyways.

Wednesday night the anticipation was finally over...we got to meet baby Amelia! Uncle Kevin and Nicole had Amelia August 10, but last night was our first chance to meet her. We have been trying for a while, and Uncle Kevin has a very busy work schedule but we were so happy to have dinner with them and meet Amelia. Joey was in prime show off mode for Uncle Kevin, and I relaxed much of the night with the comfort of this cute baby girl in my arms...I did finally share with Phil too. It was great seeing you Uncle Kevin, and we are so happy to meet you Amelia!

Finally for this week, Jillian had her last dance class for this session today. We are hoping it continues next session but need some others to sign up. Jillian loves her dance class. She dances with the hula hoop, maracas, tambourine, baby dolls, parachute (has come a long way with that one!), bubbles, and mommy and the teacher. Jillian loves music and dancing, and I think will be seeing a lot of Ms. Rachael in the next few years.

Phew, is it Friday yet?

Joshua's Journeys #62 Corduroy the Bear

2011-10-17T12:10:00.001-07:00

Speaking of our NICU nurses and all the wonderful things they do, we would call Josh's nurses NICU aunties because they took such great care of Josh (and Joey when he was there, but the long term stay of Josh drew a deeper affection). Josh's NICU Auntie Stephanie knew that we read Corduroy the Bear to Josh quite a bit and I had mentioned I was looking for some green cords for Josh to sport on Halloween. He was always very hot so we weren't really concerned about a shirt for him. Well, NICU Auntie Stephanie took it upon herself to surprise us with a homemade costume custom fit for Josh! She made ears for him to wear as well and he looked adorable, better than anything I could even try to come up with. All I had to do was pop Josh's book in his hands, sit him in his stroller, and bring in some candy to put in his bag for staff to eat! We even took a few strolls around the NICU that day to bring candy to other parents and staff that might not have passed his room.

Saturday night after baths I was cleaning out some things in Joey's closet and knowing we were going to the NICU reunion the next day couldn't help but grab Josh's pumpkin hat to see how small it was. Joey was interested so I showed him the Corduroy costume that Stephanie had made so when Joey saw Stephanie at the NICU party he knew she was the one that made his brothers costume. It was a really sweet moment to show Joey that this lady that he might not remember knew him and his brother and made that special costume for Josh. A side note about Joey here... we had passed CDH the other day and told Joey and Jillian that the hospital was where all 3 of them were born. Joey responded with "Josh and I were boring there?" And in attempts to correct him he now insists that he was "boring when he was in mommy's tummy," even though we said he (and even moreso) Josh was anything but boring when I was pregnant!

Weekend Update...

2011-10-17T11:38:00.001-07:00

The weekend started for us Friday morning. I have nothing going on Fridays (for a little while) so I asked Joey what he wanted to do. Either I have trained him well or he loves it as much as I do, but he responded with "Go to the Arboretum!" I was hoping he would say that because I knew we had a fairly full weekend ahead of us but wanted to make it over there to see the glass pumpkin patch that was on display and for purchase this Fri-Sun. So here are just a few pics of the kids at the Arboretum, but a few seeing some different things. They had the glass blowing classes outside with benches for all to watch and demonstrations going all day. So after playing in the children's garden and going to story time, we went to see the glass pumpkins and glass blowing demonstrations. The pumpkins were quite neat, but quite pricey as well so we did not leave that patch with a pumpkin, but got some popcorn- a Kurby kid favorite! It was also a very, very windy day so after searching for some pinecones we decided it was time to head home.

Saturday the we headed over to the fire station for an open house! They had balloons, Sparky the dog, many fire trucks to climb on and look at, firefighter outfits to try on, an obstacle course to race in, a big bouncy to climb and slide, and a trailer for a demo of how to get out of your bedroom if there is a fire in your house. They actually had a firefighter teach the kids in a room that looked kinda like a kids bedroom, got some fake smoke in there, smoke detector went off, and they were assisted out a window. I thought it was a pretty cool demonstration, and the kids got fireman hats too! Not to mention once again popcorn and juice in CSFD cups to take home!

Saturday night we did the super cool thing and went grocery shopping at Target! This week is the last week of the session for dane, but I signed her up for the next one since she loves it so much. She has been the only one in class not in full ballerina attire and I have been too cheap to get her a leotard. Well, for Halloween she is going to be Tinkerbell (a great buy from a resale!) and needed a long sleeved something to go underneath. So we decided it was time she got a little getup. Jillian's eyes lit up when I took her to the dance area, and she was showing off her dance skills the next morning when she tried it on.

Sunday was the annual NICU reunion party! It was our 3rd year going and it keeps getting bigger and bigger. It used to be held in the cafeteria of the hospital, but with over 500 kids in attendance they moved it over to Danada House. It was so much fun. We always love catching up with our favorite NICU nurses. We stay in touch with Josh's primary nurses and a few others that volunteer at the CHARGE 5K, and some we just get together now and again with, but this reunion allows us to see everyone we might not otherwise get to see and catch up with some great families and friends we have made along the way. Plus, there is nothing more adorable than seeing a bunch of little kids all dressed up busting a move to the band, chasing bubbles, playing games, taking pictures, decorating cookies, bouncing around, this year going on hayrides, and decorating pumpkins! Our friends from the family advisory council had their daughters there as well and while waiting for our cars the kids enjoyed making wishes with pennies in the fountain. So cute! I wish I had more pictures but there is always so much to do, so many people to see and so little time! It is always a great time and this year at the new location completely top notch!

A Perfect Autumn Weekend!

2011-10-10T14:07:00.000-07:00

We had a great weekend and enjoyed every bit of this wonderful fall weather. On Friday the kids painted some pictures for GG Joe's 89 birthday on Sunday. After naps we headed out to Scarecrow fest where there was a craft show, bouncies for the kids, carnival rides, face painting, and much more. We didn't get out there until 5 and the craft show was already closing up, but the kids loved all that we did do including just walking by the riverwalk. A fun start to our weekend!

On Saturday we started off with breakfast at Nonna and Grandpa's where Grandpa made some delicious blueberry pancakes! After fueling up it was off to Goebert's for some more fall fun! If you remember last year it was pouring rain the weekend we had scheduled to go, so this year was much better not being wet or cold and seeing all that Goebert's has to offer! They enjoyed posing in front of the character cut outs, reading in the giant rocking chair with Nonna, feeding the giraffe and other animals (but the giraffe was hands down the coolest), riding ponies, watching the pig races, and riding a camel too! Thanks for a fun morning!

Saturday night we went to Grandma's house to celebrate GG Joe's 89th birthday! Well, turns out at 3:00 Grandma got a call from GG Rose saying that GG Joe was in the hospital! If you know GG Joe, he is the fittest 89 year old man you'll ever meet and can handle pain like no other. So for him to have said he was in pain enough to go, you know its something. Turns out he had his gallbladder taken out Sunday morning, on his birthday! He was not able to eat anything Grandma had made him--of course all his favorite things since it was his birthday--and Grandma brought our gifts and pictures to GG Joe after dinner. Fast forward, GG Joe did great through surgery and is expected to go home tomorrow! (Hoping to eat apple pie soon I'm sure!)

Sunday morning I woke up at 3:30 to head down to the city and check in to Volunteer Headquarters at 4:30am for the Chicago Marathon. Since I ran in Sept. I decided not to do another marathon so close, but of course could not stay away from all the excitement the marathon hold, especially since Ryan Hall would be in the vicinity (my current favorite male marathoner who placed 5th, but is not just a tremendous athlete but a great guy giving back too). This was my third time volunteering: the first year I did runner information, second time start corrals, and this year charity village directing people running for charities to their charity tent as well as many to the start line. The excitement and anticipation on people's faces after months of preparation is priceless and made me wish I had signed up even if it were just a "fun" run.

After heading home at 8am it was a quick pit stop before heading back out with our family as well as Auntie, Andrew, and Emma to go apple picking. Unfortunately Grandma couldn't make it since GG Joe was having his surgery that morning but we were sure to pick plenty of apples for her so she could make her famous, delicious apple pies! Even though we got there 15 minutes after they opened there was already a long line to go on the wagon ride and head out to the orchards. So waiting in line the kids entertained themselves dancing with each other and goofing around. Once we got out there the kids had a lot of fun being lifted by Daddy/Uncle Phil, eating as many apples as they could manage, and carrying their full 1/4 peck bags of apples around. Of course we had to indulge in some apple donuts and cider before heading home. We later caught up with Grandma for updates on GG Joe, which of course we were happy to hear he is doing very well. Happy 89th Birthday GG Joe!

Fall is here!

2011-10-02T12:34:00.000-07:00

I love the fall...the changing leaves, the cooler nights where I can cuddle up in a blanket, drinking hot chai tea or cider, and marathon season! While I am happy that I had my marathon a couple weeks ago I am still very excited to see the Chicago and New York marathons. I think it is such an exciting and great time. I guess most correlate the fall with football, which I do like to watch after a long run, but I think of the fall moreso for marathon season! Anyways, back to other fun fall festivities...I am of course always up to going to the Arboretum to see the leaves changing and all the autumn events they have going on there, but Daddy did not feel like going out there the other night but still wanted to get out of the house. So I brought out a few booklets that had fests and activities, we toyed with Cosley Zoo but we wouldn't have much time since it was after naps, we'd also have to have dinner soon, etc. So we drove a very short distance to Sonny Acres...we didn't get our pumpkins, we are doing that later in the month with Auntie, Uncle, Andrew, Emma, and Grandma, but we did go check out the petting zoo, looked at the pumpkins, and the few rides that they had out for the kids. Joey and Jillian went on a pony ride which Joey loved! Jillian was a little hesitant and had a kung fu grip on my jacket the whole time but stayed on unlike last year where she screamed when we tried to put her on a pony. They both loved going into the petting zoo area where we were able to not just feed the animals but mingle amongst them! I don't think I've ever been to a petting zoo like this, I was a bit surprised, but the kids loved it! We are very lucky to have this place so close to our house, and I'm sure we'll be back a few times before the season is over!

2011-10-02T12:28:00.000-07:00

Whenever we move Joey's room around or spend time playing in his room he almost always brings up the time last year when I put all the stuffed animals he had gotten around him in an a la E.T. way. He loves when I pack the stuffed animals around him and takes it very seriously trying to hold still. He was a little agitated at Jillian because she was laughing and goofing around so much, but we managed to do it with both of them together. We had just switched the hutch from Joey's dresser on to Jillian's since we are not using the top of hers as a changing table anymore, so now it looks like a big girl room. There are also some pictures of the kids going on a leaf hunt in the back yard. They love the pumpkins that we brought out for Halloween and were itching to put something in them so we went leaf hunting.

Happy Birthday Nathan!

2011-10-02T12:22:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday Nathan turned 2! We were lucky enough to celebrate with him on his actual birthday. We started off at a coffee shop with an indoor playground. It was a very fun place to climb and play and allowed Mommy, Daddy, Auntie Miya, and Uncle Mark to have some coffee and relax, at least for a little bit. Then we headed back to their house to play on their new swingset, bouncy that was super fun, and of course Jillian got Auntie Miya to bring out some bubbles! After a yummy lunch and cake it was definitely time for naps. Thanks for having us over, it was fun to play with you Nathan. And happy 2nd birthday!

Joey and Jillian Updates

2011-09-23T11:46:00.000-07:00

Joey has been in school now for 3 weeks and absolutely loves it! He loves the fact that they play outside for at least a few minutes every day, and loves to paint! He also received his first Scholastic Book order which he (and I!) were super excited about. His school offers an enrichment program where you can pick a few days a month or all and sign up to eat lunch at school and stay a few hours longer to do some other activities and learn more, next months topics discovering ABC's and PeeWee Picasso. October will be the first month it is offered and when I asked Joey if he'd want to stay at school for lunch and be with his teacher's from last year (they are the ones that do the program) he gave me an excited yes! So I will probably be looking into a few days to let him stay at school a little longer! He is also enjoying t-ball on the weekends and I can't believe its already decision time to put him in the next session! He really enjoys it and loves that Daddy hangs out at the school to watch him while he's there.

On Thursdays Jillian started Mommy and Me Dance class. She absolutely loves it! She has performed her Rock-a-Bye Baby dance for several willing audiences (grandparents and Auntie!) and learned some more dances this past week. The first week she had a little freak out moment when they brought out the big parachute...she wouldn't go near it, and wouldn't let me either. If I reached for the handle she'd scream "Mommy, no, no!" She sat back in the corner until I took her to go potty and then they had put the parachute away and we were dancing with bubbles. This week she not only allowed me to play with the parachute, but sat in the center of it as we twirled them around in it. She much more prefers to dance than play with the parachute, and really enjoyed doing her ballerina walks, plies and twirls during ballet time! She even received a Tinkerbell stamp on her hand and was walking around with her hand in the air the rest of the morning!

Today was such a beautiful morning and I think we are in for a rainy weekend so when I mentioned the Arboretum to Joey last night he was all for it. We explored some areas we don't regularly frequent and it constantly amazes me how big and how much the Arboretum has to offer kids and adults alike. I can't wait for the leaves to really start changing over there! I hadn't been there on a Friday and the other days I am working or Joey is in school so this was the first time we were able to make it to story time! We all enjoyed hearing Ms. Donna read about the animals and trees of the forest and we went looking for some acorns and leaves before lunch time.

Trains, trains, and more trains

2011-09-23T11:00:00.000-07:00

Last week Daddy went out for a "work" lunch, and while he did get some work conversation accomplished he also brought home some of his coworker's son's trains for us to borrow until Joey is done with them! Thank you Sam for being such a good sharer! Sam is Kevin's (Phil's coworker) son who was really into Thomas as you can tell from the pictures and while we are giving them back Joey scored a ton of trains as well as track, fountain, bridges, roundabout, and many, many other things Thomas! I tried to line up all the new trains (these pics do not include Joey's roughly 20 trains that he had and we thought was plenty!), there were quite a few, I should have counted before Joey woke up from his nap to see the Thomas world in the basement!

#10...and a PR!

2011-09-18T12:30:00.000-07:00

This morning I headed out in the rain to run my 10th marathon. I was doing 1-2 each year with a couple of setbacks...the first year had stress fractures that didn't allow me to run, and then a good 3 years off to have kids (either be pregnant or on bed rest at the time I should be training or running). I have run several half marathons and other races in between, but today was my 10th marathon.

My mom and sister have always been there cheering me on, and the first year Phil was finishing school so he couldn't be there, but has been to almost every other one since then. The additions of Andrew, Joey, Emma, and Jillian came in the past few years, and today my (mother-in-law) mom and (father-in-law) dad also made it to Curbside Superstar status! While I did not decide to run Chicago this year it saved them and myself from the congestion and chaos of the crowds, but we also got a pretty cold and rainy day.

My best time to date was 4:04:45, and I couldn't surpass that time no matter how hard I tried. Some days you win, some you lose no matter how hard you train or prepare, some days are just not yours. With the support of my Curbside Crew and many other wonderful encouragements from friends (thank you, your words were bouncing in my head most of the way today!) I hit my goal of beating my best time while still finishing feeling well. I have wanted to break 4 hours, but even a PR with the wet, cold weather we had today would have thrilled me. I am delighted to say that I ran my 10th marathon this morning with a time of 4:01:54!

Breaking 4 hours might take another year or two ( it is really hard to shed a mere 3 seconds per mile over 26.2 miles!), but considering my shirt felt like it weighed 10 pounds from all the rain and my shoes were sloshier than ever I am one happy girl! Thank you to all that gave me words of encouragement and support, and of course the whole crew that went to different spots along the course to sit in the pouring rain to wait for me to run past! And thank you Phil for the awesome playlist!
Here are pics from Daddy and Nonna and Grandpa

Pictures from Auntie Christy
Pictures from Grandma and here too.
I can't thank them all enough for being there! XO

We like to potty, we like, we like to potty!

2011-09-11T18:59:00.000-07:00

First off, lots of posts here sorry they all come condensed onto one day/update!

Our Labor Day weekend was very low key--spent at home except for an outing to Grandmas for dinner, but what a momentous weekend at the same time! Saturday we were planning on going to a Kane County Cougars game...we've never been to one, and since the Flyers that were even closer are gone we figured it was time to try them out. The weather forecast was calling for rain, it wasn't looking too promising outside, and we were back and forth on if we should go. We have also been back and forth on when we should start potty training Jillian. We started Joey pretty early. Since they are 17 months apart I was pregnant and very big with Jillian, having to go potty quite a bit myself so I would put Joey on the potty as well. It took him a while to catch on to the whole process, but he was fully potty trained before he was 2. Jillian has been so interested in the potty chair because of Joey always going, and she has had her attempts of jumping on there herself. A while back I had thought after our Orlando vacation we should start trying her, but hadn't quite committed. Well, we finally had nothing going on over the weekend, I had bought some underwear for her for what I thought was going to be Christmas or whenever we started trying, but I wanted to have it washed and ready to go. Well, Jillian saw the Tinkerbells and Minnies and had to put them on! So our Labor Day was spent 99% of the time in the bathroom with Jill! It did seem a bit early, but Joey had already started trying at her age, and really we can not wait to be done with diapers! Jillian loves showing off her big girl underpants and has moved on to major big girl status wearing her underpants all day long, even when we are going out. She has a few accidents, but is doing an amazing job. She is still in her "night nights" (pull up diaper) at nap and bedtime, but since she's been in her big girl underpants she has not #2'd at all in them! She must not want to mess the pretty patterns! What started off feeling like we were potty training a puppy carrying a dripping girl to the potty, currently has come to our pretty girl grabbing my hand and saying "I go potty" this morning as we walked to the potty! Its not a 100%, but she is so well on her way. She has done an amazing job, and we couldn't be more proud of our little big girl!

Honey Bee Weekend

2011-09-11T18:58:00.000-07:00

This weekend was honeybee weekend at the arboretum so we went out for some honey fun! Ok, so we didn't do much in terms of tasting honey, bee hive tours/talks, or visit the local vendors but we did play and have fun! It was Auntie, Andrew, and Emma's first time at the Arboretum so Joey showed Andrew the ropes so to speak! The weather was perfect and was a great way to let the kids run around and burn off some energy!

Play Ball!

2011-09-11T18:51:00.000-07:00

Joey started t-ball this weekend! We signed him up for a 3-4 class and thought it was a parent/child class, but when Phil went in with Joey he was told it was just kids. Joey had asked Daddy to stay with him before they got there, but once he was in the gym he was in his element. He ran the bases, was learning to field grounders, and throw. While he was the shortest one there he had the enthusiasm to make up for it. Jillian and I walked up to the school to meet the boys, and Jillian picked dandelions to make a bouquet for her big brother who loved receiving it! Great job Joey!

Let's Go Out to the Movies!

2011-09-11T18:50:00.000-07:00

Friday was a rainy and somewhat dreary day around here. It was a day we didn't have school, Mommy didn't have to work, so we could just hang around and relax, but I think Joey and Jillian are getting to be like me where we just like getting out of the house. My thought was to go to the Arboretum, but given the weather it didn't seem worth heading out there. So we played with Play-Doh, painted, colored, still we found ourselves wondering what to do. Joey asked to watch Cars on tv, which I don't allow tv during the day (after naps and before bed is ok) so I said no. He then remembered going to the movies for his birthday and asked if we could go see Cars 2 on the biiiiiig screen! I laughed at his great memory, and said I didn't think it was at the theater anymore and told him how we have to wait for it to come out on video (dvd,blu-ray, you know what I mean!). But then I had an idea... we had never been to the Picture Show by us, the $1.75 show, so I looked up what movies were playing and Winnie the Pooh was! I asked the kids if they'd want to go after naps and they both agreed, as did Daddy when I told him Joey had a great suggestion. So after naps we headed to the movies! Popcorn, m&ms, and a movie later Jillian was still dry--no accidents proving once again she is a big girl and can go out on the town! The best part was "dinner" and a movie for 4 was less than $20, I was super excited and told Joey if Cars 2 is there soon (there were posters in the lobby) we would go. Jillian's first movie was a success...they both behaved well, which I know the popcorn helped, and enjoyed themselves quite a bit!

Extra, extra

2011-09-11T18:45:00.000-07:00

And here are some random photos...
I had to take pictures of the kids thumbing through their first toy catalog asking for Christmas presents. Joey will sit down at random times of the day and ask for this catalog to look at the toys that he wants from Santa and will share with everyone!
There are also pictures of a day watching Jessie, flying a kite in the backyard, playing with the neighbors...or should I say all kids tackling Dominic, and other random pics, enjoy!

Joshua's Journeys #61 Remembering...

2011-09-11T18:44:00.000-07:00

Of course I could not let today go by without some sort of reflection of 9/11. I have tried not to watch too many specials in fear of being glued to the tv and not paying attention to my kids that are still here playing, growing, and enjoying the day. But of course I have caught some specials, clips, commercials, songs, how could you not? In talking with Phil about where we were that day, calling each other to make sure the other was safe, it seemed like a long time ago in some respects, but like yesterday in others. I can't help but be selfish right now and think if 9/11 was just 10 years ago and it feels like yesterday, how fast is the 10th "anniversary" of Josh's passing going to come? What will Joey and Jillian be doing? Where will I be in my journey? And of course what would, and what if if Joshua were still here. While many are still mourning the devastating attacks 10 years ago I am remembering along with them, and aching for each family member, friend, and stranger that has to relive what they were doing that day and how this has affected them. There are too many heads falling on pillows with eyes wide open wondering what if...
We miss, we remember, and we love.

First Day of School!

2011-09-06T12:45:00.000-07:00

Last school year Joey had started school in March after finding and contemplating a lot about a preschool for him being under 3 years. Joey had a hard time with being overly shy and things as I've stated before are magnified around March (when his twin brother passed away). So we had put him in preschool last March right before spring break was his first introduction, and then he finished off April and May. So today was officially his first day of school!

Joey was very excited for his first day of school! He had been talking about it for a while. He met his teachers last week and was very excited to go back, but a little apprehensive about Mommy and Jill not staying with him. Then this weekend after telling him that Jillian is too little to go to school and he is a big boy he took that as his way to indulge in being able to be away from Mommy and Jillian during the day! He kept telling me that Jill is too little to go, but he's a big boy! Joey sported his backpack, did his "homework" from meeting the teachers (he had to decorate a treasure chest to put on the bulletin board the first day) and headed out the door. He refused to hold my hand in the parking lot but did tell me there were no cars coming before walking, and even held the door for Jillian and I. Joey did a great job on his first day, we left him outside of his classroom where he did not cry--instead Jillian was the one that was crying as I told her we had to leave. She came in for the meet the teachers day and I think she thought she was going to be allowed in again. We took a peek into the classroom she'll be going into once she turns 2, but we didn't spend much time because she was not happy with having to go and I didn't want to disrupt the other classes!

Jillian does have some big girl status news of her own, but we will wait a bit to share...

Joshua's Journeys #60

2011-09-06T12:43:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday was meet the teachers where Joey and Jillian enjoyed playing in the classroom and with all of the stuff set out on the tables. Last Monday night was parents night, the informational meeting about what will happen during the school year, etc. It was just under an hour, but it didn't take much longer than the opening prayer (its a Christian school) where the lady was talking about blessing our children and letting them teach them and take good care of them where I found myself panicked that I was going to lose it! I had to spend a lot of time looking at the calendar so that I wouldn't burst out into tears--thinking Josh is supposed to be here too! Maybe not in this exact school, but he should be here with us, and what would he be doing now? Joey would love playing with him, and as nutty as Jill can be at times (I have often envisioned her deliberately yanking out his g-tube) she would also find him a pleasure where I could see her bringing him something to play with, patting his head and leaning in for her hug. Life would be different that is for certain, I would take it all if I could, but I know I am in my own school--I may have bad days where I want to cry, where I miss him, where I just want to lay in bed and try to get back to a dream.

Arboretum Fun!

2011-08-29T13:12:00.000-07:00

So, I had a short hiatus from the Arboretum with our vacation, Andrew's birthday, and then the CHARGE run the following weekend. But it did not take long to get back in the habit of heading over there for some outdoor fun! The day after the race we went to the Arboretum with Grandma and Joey showed her how he loves climbing everywhere. We also went on a tram ride, which Joey insists is a train and kept asking Grandma why we were stopping each time the tram stopped. He did point out some trees and told Grandma the guy was talking about the Arboretum at one point, but he really was more interested in pretending to be on a train and in the forest. We were surprised as to how many people were there when we first showed up...there were lines of cars to get in which is fairly odd. Turns out there was a Groupon expiring at the end of the month! Oddly enough the Sheldon's had that Groupon, so we managed to meet up with them this past weekend as well! Joey had a lot of fun showing Ben and Abbey around. They were all dressed up from having their family pictures taken there which would be the perfect scenery for a family photo! Friday, Auntie Miya and Nathan invited us to Yorktown where the play area was redone by the Arboretum! So we went for lots of popcorn (between Joey, Jill, and Nathan I think they had 4 bags!), some free stuff, and we even saw Curious George from the other side of the fountain! It was fun to catch up with Auntie Miya and Nathan, and Joey and Jillian had a blast running around and playing with Nathan. I also managed to squeeze in a long run at the Arboretum Saturday morning too...did I ever mention it is really hilly there! But gorgeous!

More Charge for CHARGE pics...

2011-08-23T05:21:00.000-07:00

We got yet again some great responses from runners. We had our 1st place winner contact me again--well to get his medal since he had to leave early, but spoke of praises of the race and will most likely be out there next year to defend his title!

A few others e-mailed to say they thought it was a "great race and a great time" and "really enjoyed the well organized race!"

Results have been posted on raceime.info website, as well as the CARA and Chicago Athlete web sites.

Here are some pics from my mom's camera. Another Shutterfly person so I can give you the link.

And the finish line pics.

3rd Annual Charge for CHARGE 5K!

2011-08-21T05:06:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the 3rd Annual Charge for CHARGE 5K! The weather held out pretty perfectly for us to get our run/walk in, awards, raffle, and cleaned up. Once we got home the skies opened up and it was pouring!

We had a great day with 118 bib numbers accounted for, and even more that donated. We raised $2,815 at the race alone, and have had other donations on our fundraising page. It looks like we will hit our goal of $5,000 before time runs out!

Thank you again to all of the volunteers who help orchestrate everything so seamlessly, those that participate since they are the reason we can get out there and put something like this together in the first place, and everyone who donated. It was once again a wonderful day. I have so many great pictures to sort through, so if you are looking for one of yourself I am sure I have it, just let me know and I will look for it. Otherwise, here are some of the great pictures our volunteers took! These are mostly Crystal's pictures, but a few from Phil as well.

Click here to see pictures from my sister, all good as well, but I can't get them off of Shutterfly and haven't gotten her card yet.

Soon we will have some from the water station as well! Yes, lots of pictures, but lots of fun to be captured too!

And be on the lookout, after the holidays I will be announcing the 4th Annual Joshua Kurby Charge for CHARGE 5K!

Charge for CHARGE 5K in the Press!

2011-08-18T13:15:00.000-07:00

Here is the article in the Press (MySuburbanLife) that will be in tangible print tomorrow. I really liked the article that the Daily Herald ran, but this is still some great publicity! The details aren't quite right but it was nice to have our whole family represented in a photo, even if the caption underneath is not quite right either! The quote at the end about determined parents was supposed to be describing the kiddos with CHARGE, not the parents, but parents are great advocates! I don't want to criticize the article, again so happy to get the awareness out there, and once again thank you Cindy for doing all the footwork to get the interviews going, and making sure they run!

Here is the article.
Hope to see you on Saturday!

Happy Birthday Java!

2011-08-16T18:30:00.000-07:00

Today is Java's 6th birthday! She has been with us through good times and bad, and is nothing short of patient with Joey and Jillian as they try to ride her around the house like a horse, play sometimes a little too rough, feed her things she probably shouldn't be eating (fruit snacks are good for dogs, right?), and always ready to give a big kiss to anyone. Happy Birthday Java Chewbacca! (Java's middle name was a lost bet on my part...if I broke my marathon goal that year her middle name would be Marathon since we picked her up in the afternoon after I ran, if I lost Chewbacca... now you know how that race turned out!)

And as I was trying to find the other article a bit prematurely, its not supposed to run until Friday, I found this mention in the Carol Stream Press on August 4, when we were on vacation.

Charge for CHARGE 5K in the news!

2011-08-15T14:49:00.000-07:00

We are nearing the 3rd Annual Joshua Kurby Charge for CHARGE 5K! Can you feel the excitement building? We can! Thanks to a great friend of mine, Cindy, who has been our press release girl we have been mentioned in the Examiner, this article in the Daily Herald that will run tomorrow (Tuesday), and also the Press (My Suburban Life) on Friday! I did an interview and had another family who is also the president of our Foundation as of this past conference, write an essay for the article. I'll let this article speak for itself!
Click here for the Daily Herald article put out this afternoon.

In addition, Cindy got connected with the Press/My Suburban Life where I did a phone interview and on Saturday we had a photographer come to the house. We all donned our CHARGE gear, although I'm not sure it will show in the picture in the paper, but Joey and Jillian seemed like they knew they were doing something special for their brother. They even told the photographer who was in the frames that they were holding...Joshua of course! I will post that article as soon as I find it available...supposed to be Friday. (And Jillian now thinks she is a star and had to put on her new sunglasses!) Thank you Cindy for the great PR!

Weekend Events

2011-08-15T14:45:00.001-07:00

A quick recap on what we did, more to be posted later.

We watched Minnie for a long weekend and Joey and Jillian had a blast! The kids loved feeding, walking, and playing with Minnie, and Java had a lot of fun too.

This weekend we also celebrated Andrew's 4th birthday! I was very negligent to take pictures because Kelly, Andrew's other aunt, is a great photographer so I let her capture the day which you can view here!
I will post some pictures of ours on his "real" birthday!

CHARGE Conference

2011-08-08T13:15:00.000-07:00

Before getting started, there are a ton of pictures so I did my best to just grab a few of each thing that we did on our vacation. If you want to see more feel free to ask Joey or Jillian, they love to talk about and look at all the things they did on their vacation!

Joey and Jillian took their first plane ride to Orlando last Thursday to attend the CHARGE Syndrome Foundation Conference! It was a 3 part vacation, but started out only because of the conference. The 3 parts were: the conference, Disney, and Nonna and Grandpa's condo.

We had a blast at the CHARGE Syndrome Foundation's conference. This was our second one we attended. If you remember the first one we attended was in Bloomingdale, nice and close to home! We couldn't pass up the opportunity to see those that we had met that year, and meet some that I talk to regularly but had never met in person until now! A definite highlight of our trip was meeting Ellen who traveled all the way from Australia! We were able to see many others that we had spoken with but hadn't seen outside of pictures and videos on blogs in 2 years, it truly is like a family reunion--only better! Friday and Saturday Joey and Jillian went to camp while Daddy and Mommy got to volunteer in the daycare/camp area for the kiddos with CHARGE. It was a great way for us to give something back to a great foundation as well as connect with kids that have many behaviors and mannerisms as Josh. We both fell in love with many of the kids we were taking care of and found ourselves as usual wondering where Josh would be in his accomplishments at this time. We were able to take part in the evening activities that not only included catching up with some of our favorite people, but also CHARGE-a-palooza where Joey was made into a pirate, both Joey and Jillian cut a rug on the dance floor and played games, got some swag from the silent auction, and also hung out at the pool with some families as well. (Joey felt like one of the big kids hanging out in the water with Alex and Bailey!) The true reason for this vacation was the conference, and definitely worth the trip! It was hard being away just before the 5K with a lot of work to do, but seeing how much our Foundation does to help those affected with CHARGE is really unbelievable. There are not many conferences that you go to where everyone welcomes each other whether they are on the Board of Directors, a family member, or a presenter from another country, they all sit as a family and share themselves. Amazing!

Just before the conference ended on Sunday, Grandma had arrived to pick up Joey! Joey and Grandma went up to the room (Jillian actually fell asleep at camp this morning after her long night on the dance floor) so we got her after the conference ended to continue our trip...

Magic Kingdom

2011-08-08T13:11:00.000-07:00

After the conference was over we grabbed some lunch, let the kids take a nap, and then headed out for the next leg of our vacation...Disney! We finished out the afternoon/evening at the Magic Kingdom! The ferry ride over was fun for the kids, but of course they loved being at the Magic Kingdom and we even stayed to see the Main Street Electric Parade! Very fun!

Hollywood and Epcot

2011-08-08T13:05:00.000-07:00

This morning was spent at Hollywood Studios where Joey and Daddy saw Darth Vader. There was a demonstration with some kids fighting Darth and Joey told Daddy that he does not want to fight that guy! We played in the Honey I Shrunk the Kids area before walking around and seeing some of the Little Einsteins. We don't watch them, but Joey and Jillian had seen 2 episodes in the hotel so I think they had an idea of who they were. We all had a blast at the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse watching of course Mickey and company, Handy Manny (kids aren't all that interested in him though), and Jake and the Neverland Pirates which both of them love!
In the afternoon it was off to Epcot to see Crush from Nemo do Turtle Talk, as well as walk around the different parts of the world. Joey even went on Spaceship Earth, where he told Daddy he did not want to be in outer space anymore once we were at the very top! Luckily it was a cool and dark ride so Jillian stayed sound asleep!

Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom

2011-08-08T13:01:00.000-07:00

Today was a full day of fun starting with the Magic Kingdom where we went on a bunch of rides, saw a parade, and high fived lots of characters! In the afternoon we went over to Animal Kingdom for a safari ride that Jillian pretty much was heat exhausted, but Joey enjoyed himself quite a bit viewing his favorite animals up close! They also got to meet a lot of characters, probably the best reason we went to Animal Kingdom was the short lines for to meet and greet! Jillian also loved the Nemo show here!

Magic Kingdom and Epcot

2011-08-08T12:57:00.000-07:00

The last visit to the Magic Kingdom Jillian loved the teacups while Joey took advantage of his the once again very short line for the cars. He even got a license! We caught yet another parade where the kids were able to dance in the streets with the characters again. After naps it was time to have dinner with Pluto and Goofy before heading out to Epcot one last time. We walked back to our hotel on the Boardwalk which was a very pretty (still hot though!) walk.

Nonna and Grandpa's Condo

2011-08-08T12:28:00.000-07:00

Thursday after a yummy breakfast at Cat Cora's the first female Iron Chef's restaurant we were picked up by Nonna and Grandpa and headed for some last minute shopping at Downtown Disney. After lunch we headed for a 2 hour ride to Osprey to spend some time at Nonna and Grandpa's condo! Joey and Jillian loved being there. Joey drove the boat with Grandpa while Jillian slept for part of the ride, but then woke up to see the dolphins jumping (of course "Mooch" was there trying to get some food!) and take in the ocean breeze! Later in the day we went to the beach to play in the sand, do some wave busting, and hanging out! A very fun time, thanks Nonna and Grandpa!

Joshua's Journeys #59 Open Heart Magic Begins!

2011-07-24T13:21:00.001-07:00

You may remember a post I did a while ago about Josh being down at Children's and we did Hospital Bingo. At the time Josh had been in the hospital for a while, and although an 8 month old baby can't play Bingo, he could look at the clown on tv dressed up in bright, fun clothes talking to him along with the kids that were able to make it to the 5th floor to participate in person. Josh won Bingo the first day, I was so excited calling down to the 5th floor on his phone to shout Bingo over the tv! He won a Build-A-Bear! The following week when we did not win, he got a goldfish beany baby as a consolation prize (can't win 'em all!). Anyways, we were down at Children's for quite some time before being discharged, and then returning just a day later to what would end up being his final days with us. Being constantly at your child's bedside, comforting, and doing all you can to keep life "normal" for the rest of your family can oftentimes be very hard if not near impossible.

Another post you may remember was from this past October (I think not posted until early November) where I spoke about going down to McCormick Place to pick up my packet for the marathon. They have a huge expo with lots of different vendors and people trying to raise money for different charities, etc. You may remember I smirked and sighed at the guy who was asking for a t-shirt from the Children's Memorial Hospital team because his son stayed there for a few nights, when all I wanted to say was my son died there one night! After passing that booth I came to a booth that wiped the tear before it could even start to fall...Open Heart Magic. They are a group that go to different hospitals and perform magic for kids and parents. Sounds kinda silly? Well, when you are in the hospital day after day you don't need another nurse, doctor, friend, or family member telling you to "hope for the best" or giving their words of wisdom which come from no experience like yours at that moment. What you need is to get away...you need to go to a magical place, not just your kid but the parent as well. You need to be able to forget everything that is going on, remember what its like to smile, to learn, to engage, to feel a part of something outside of the medical staff's rounds, you need Open Heart Magic!

Within seconds of seeing a trick I was sold...this is what I had to bring to the Family Advisory Council at Central DuPage. It was such an easy thing to do, and Mike the Director/Founder of Open Heart Magic was so wonderful to work with. It was with a joyful tear this morning that I found a very overly complimentary e-mail in my inbox stating that this past Tuesday CDH has started Open Heart Magic! I know that Josh continues to grow in me and makes me grow as well. He is the driving force behind many of my actions and I am so very proud that CDH now has Open Heart Magic. If you live in our area and, heaven forbid, you wind up at CDH and happen to run into one of the fantastic magicians know that Josh is visiting you as well. They will be visiting the Peds Units: PICU, Peds, possible NICU) Pediatric ER, and Pediatric Outpatient Services. They may even at some point flow into the adult units as well, as the hospital staff saw that this magic is not just for kids its for everyone!

Mommy and Me Bootcamp

2011-07-22T10:33:00.000-07:00

Over the summer I have taught a Mommy and Me Bootcamp class. You may remember seeing a picture early in the summer of Joey and Jillian after class.

The first session was 5 ladies and their kids, and this past session we had 8 moms with their kids, this group being a little younger than the previous. One mom wanted a picture for her son's baby book on the last day of class. Of course that was the day that a few others were absent, including Joey and Jillian because Auntie was having her garage sale. So, Joey and Jillian aren't in these pictures, but they have attended and helped me instruct all the other classes. We are continuing the class this fall and possibly adding on a Mommy and Me Yoga class. As many of you know Joey loves showing everybody how he can do Down Dog and Single Arm Down Dog, so I think he is up for the additional challenge!

Lotsa Lotsa Posts...

2011-07-21T12:42:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted anything since Joey's birthday/4th of July weekend, so here are the past couple weeks of what we've been up to!

Mini Indy

2011-07-21T12:29:00.000-07:00

Today was the Mini Indy. Joey and Andrew's bike race/rally. It was super hot, but they as well as Jillian and Emma handled the heat really well. The park district had a Mini Indy that consisted of several stations for the kids (3-6 year olds) to take their bikes as well as some races. They started off with a bike wash, where they grabbed sponges and washed then rinsed off their bikes. Here is where the girls decided it would be coolest and they pretty much played with the water the entire time. A staff member brought over a chair for them to wash and they were very content. The boys went to a bike safety talk, then out some "bling" on their bikes with streamers, bells, spoke noise maker, and more. After that it was time to decorate a license plate and get their race numbers. Joey was excited about his race number I think from the bib number he got at his last running race. They also participated in an obstacle course and then they stopped at the Pit Stop for a quick snack before being led to the races. Joey and Andrew raced each other and you were supposed to zig zag between the cones, but Joey cut across the course to chase Andrew. They both finished at a tie, noting that Joey didn't really do the course correctly, and Joey in a deja vous moment went splat on the pavement. He is getting much better at his dramatic finishes and didn't cry or whine one bit. He got up, looked at his knee, and moved his bike to the side for the next race. By this time I had made my way down to the end and Joey was totally fine, just concerned about his bike...it was a little out of whack from the fall. So I adjusted it as best I could and he hopped back on and was fine. At the end Joey and Andrew got trophies for "winning" the whole race! All the kids got trophies, but Andrew and Joey were hugging each other saying they beat all the other kids and won it together. I'm good with that!. On the way home Joey said "me and Andrew won the race and I crashed them all!" Hmmm...I hope he doesn't think the finish of a race is supposed to be a sliding finish!

Auntie Trish and Uncle Alex's new place

2011-07-21T12:24:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday we went in to the city to see Auntie Trisha and Uncle Alex's new apartment! They moved in Memorial Day weekend and were brave enough to invite the whole crew down. Yes, the whole crew consisting of Auntie Pam and Snowy, Grandma and Jessie, Auntie, Uncle Chris, Andrew, and Emma, and then Daddy, Joey, Jillian, and myself. Java kept cool and calm at home. Later in the evening Auntie Tiff, John, and his dog also showed up! It was quite the housewarming party and I think we really broke the place in for them! We hope to be invited back again! The kids really had a blast, thank you Auntie Trish for the fun coloring activities, and for allowing so many dogs and kids in your place at one time! The food was fantastic! Auntie Trish did all the cooking inside where you'd think she had been living in her place for years, and Uncle Alex braved the heat grilling some tasty food for everyone! Thank you so much for a fun, fun night!

Joey's 3 year and Jillian's 18 month pictures

2011-07-21T12:18:00.000-07:00

So we were taking Joey and Jillian in for their pictures. We had a nice shirt for Joey to take his big 3 year old picture, and then thought it would be cute for Jillian and Joey to take a picture together since she is now 18 months. We decided to put them in their pajamas and let them hold what they go to bed with each night...Jill has her 2 Minnie Mouses, and Joey usually has some race cars. So, we figured Joey would be up first and then we would put them in their pajamas and be ready to head home afterwards. Joey refused to smile. It didn't matter what we did, what props he was given, he did not want to smile. Jillian the attention seeker that she is, was catching the photographers attention plenty and being a little goof. So we figured it was a bust for Joey to be dressed nicely and threw them in their pajamas. Even with his sister it was near impossible to get Joey to smile. So we have 3 pictures total from a good 45 minute ordeal. When the pictures were all over I was talking to the lady and Joey whispered to me that it was fun taking pictures. I said "Really? Then why didn't you smile?" He responded with "I didn't want to make that lady happy." UGH! I guess the three year old behavior has started!

Harry Potter

2011-07-21T12:14:00.000-07:00

As everyone is well aware the last Harry Potter movie came out last weekend. I have never read or watched a Harry Potter movie and am not all that interested in starting, just not my thing. But it is Grandma, Uncle Chris, Auntie Christy, and Daddy's thing! So, I got the privilege, as I did for the last HP movie to watch all the little ones while the big ones went to the show (or as Auntie and Uncle Chris told Andrew--their meeting). The kids all ate really well and played really well. We were greeted a few hours later with popcorn (how nice of them to serve popcorn at your meetings Auntie!), and we all indulged!

Miscellaneous July pictures

2011-07-21T12:08:00.000-07:00

Here are some random pictures from the beginning of July up until now. Daddy playing with Joey and Jillian, Joey and Jillian watching Jessie, going to what we call the Blue Playground, and Joey's new shoes. The Blue Playground is a new playground that has a lot of fun and different things, it is a little bit of a walk, but the kids really enjoy the stroll when the weather is right. Joey's new shoes are actually hand me downs from Andrew. Auntie Trish had gotten them for him when she was working at a shoe store a few years ago, but Andrew didn't quite fit in them, so they were handed on to Joey and he loves them as much as I do! I love New Balance shoes, have been running in them for years. I took a little sabbatical from New Balance to try out some other brands earlier this year but when I got a fitting done it proved that New Balance shoes fit me best and I love them! So I was super excited for Joey's new kicks!

Bean Bag Tournament for CHARGE Foundation

2011-07-21T12:01:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, July 9 we helped Abbey celebrate her 3rd birthday. Scarlett and Abbey share the same birthday, but her party was on Saturday at a super fun splash park. I was looking for our pictures, but I think since we were in the spraying water with the kids I may have forgotten to take pictures! It was a very fun, and very Ariel (from The Little Mermaid) themed party. Thanks for having us!

Sunday, July 10 we went out in the heat to Lake Zurich for another CHARGE mom's fundraiser. Last year she held her first bean bag toss tournament and Phil and I did pretty poorly. This year, we stepped up our game a little bit, we were not immediately eliminated, but hung in for 4 games. This year they also had a bouncy for the kids. There was a raffle, lots of donated food and drinks, and a lot of fun! It was a very hot morning-afternoon, but the kids did really well, and so did Nonna and Grandpa--thanks for watching the kids while Phil and I played our games!

Welcome Scarlett Elizabeth!

2011-07-21T11:55:00.000-07:00

July 7 Uncle Chris and Aunt Brooke welcomed baby Scarlett into the family! Joey and Jillian can not wait to meet their new cousin, but have enjoyed looking at pictures, videos, and seeing her in action over the phone with "face time" (like skype). Daddy was able to visit Scarlett and the new parents last Saturday.

Happy Birthday Joey!

2011-07-07T06:09:00.000-07:00

Happy 3rd birthday (golden birthday) to Josh and Joey! Joey had a great time with all of his friends and family at his party, and thinks he hit big boy status since he did not nap at all on the day of the party. Instead, he made sure the water toys were warmed up and ready to go!

We also had a number 3 balloon for Josh and Joey. Joey understood the idea of the balloon being up on the trellis connecting him and Josh. Joey has told us that he "was with Josh when he was a little baby too. We just played together, with Jesus...in heaven." He also mentioned "I don't want Josh to be away in his house. I want him at my house." We all miss him and wonder what our daily routine would be like, but we'll have to wait for another time to be reunited, and hope that Joey and Josh play at night in Joey's dreams. Happy Birthday boys!

The following day was the 4th of July and since Joey didn't nap, didn't go to sleep until late, and woke up at his usual time he was pretty tired all day. We went to the parade and saw Gigi marching in it. We didn't make it to a family friends' barbecue, but we did make the long trek next door for some dinner and swimming! Thanks to our neighbors we were able to relax next door, have some dinner, and go swimming! Joey took a little bit longer than Jillian to get comfortable, but once they were in and shown a thing or two neither wanted to get out! We are going to have to watch the fence and make sure the kids don't scale it to get in their pool! (Not sure why these are different slide shows, but I'm not messing with it!)

And finally some cute pictures from today:

Joshua's Journeys #58 My my how time does fly...

2011-06-29T14:15:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned before there have been a lot of things I've wanted to post about Josh, memories, things I don't want to forget, little moments that have popped in my head, and other thoughts I don't want to forget. Things have been pretty hectic with summer festiviites, but Josh is always on my mind and heart. It sometimes takes a lot more effort and a few more tears to put it here which is why I often times, most times don't post Joshua's Journeys as much as I'd like. I don't want to forget, but at the same time in my heart I know I won't and some moments are so personal, feelings and bonds that can't be articulated, and I can't even approach some of the subject matter in a mere blog post. However, a few things that have caught my attention over the past few weeks. First was back on father's day when I cut Jillian's bangs. I had always thought she resembled Josh quite a bit, but thought that I was maybe stretching that a bit. She definitely has the same big blue breathtaking eyes. A lot of times when I look at her on the monitor laying in Josh's crib--her crib too-- I do a double take because she lays in ways that he did, and looks like him on a black and white monitor. I've shown Phil sometimes how her hair will lay upwards making her head seem bigger on top (the lightbulb look of a kid with hydrocephally) and I immediately think how much she looks like Josh. In pictures if I put my hand over their foreheads to take away that hydrocephally forehead where it gets bigger their face shapes are very similar. Of course Jillian has always had more weight on her from the beginning so her cheeks are a bit more filled out. But when I cut her hair I was picking up snippings to put in an envelope just like I had done with Joey, and like Tina did for us for Josh's first shunt surgery. As I picked up the hair my heart skipped a beat. I hadn't noticed it before and went digging through Josh's baby book to find his hair clippings. Sure enough a near perfect match! I remember when Josh went in for his first shunt surgery Tina mentioned the anesthesiologist call him a "ginger" meaning he had reddish hair. It was news to us, we thought he was blondish brown, and the more surgeries the poor kid had the more it looked blonde because of the way it grew back. He had a major head of hair compared to Joey who was almost bald his whole first year of life. Many people have mentioned to me in the past that they think Jillian has a reddish tint to her hair as well. I always thought it was like mine, brown but when I was a kid had some golden highlights from the sun. After cutting it and comparing whatever color hair you want to say the hue is, they are the same!

When Joey went to see Cars 2 I couldn't stop thinking about where Josh would be at this point in his life. What milestones would he have hit? Would he still be trached? We were planning on his first birthday trying to work on getting trach free, but it is a process. I couldn't help but think how he'd love staring at the big screen with all the colors for his big eyes to take in. He was profoundly deaf to where he'd hear a jet plane if he was right next to it, but it may be that he'd feel the vibration more than anything, but I'd wonder if he'd hear anything since movies can be quite loud at times. Even when we were at the carnival the other day, I know Josh would not do well on a ride...maybe I'd be more worried than him since CHARGE kids love to spin! But even then I was reminded of how he'd look around in amazement at his surroundings and you could just see him soaking every little thing in.

As Joey and Jillian get older I am losing the comparison stages. Jillian's pictures are looking like a little girl, not a baby. Joey is turning 3, and I have pictures of Josh frozen in time under a year old.

Newborn pictures:

6 Months:

1 Year (Josh just over 8 months):

18 months (Jillian newborn), 2 years, 2 1/2 years:

Tomorrow Jillian will be 18 months, and Sunday Joey will be 3 years! My, my how time does fly!

Weekend in Photos

2011-06-29T13:39:00.001-07:00

The lazy days of summer have got me again. I am in a rush to post these pictures so that I am all caught up for Joey's birthday on Sunday.

Last Friday we went to see Andrew at his last day of camp. He was at camp for 2 weeks because he did 2 camps back to back even though it was the same theme. He got to spend time with his neighbors the second week which made it all the more fun for him, and a little different than the first week on the last day we were invited to hear some of the songs he had learned. Since Andrew was so supportive of Joey in his big race, Joey didn't hesitate at the chance to see Andrew in action.

Friday night was Northlake Days. We went to Auntie Steph and Uncle Don's beforehand where Joey got his first birthday gift. Unfortunately Auntie Steph and Uncle Don won't be here for Joey's birthday, but he was super excited to get a ball, hat and mitt, a great Cars outfit which he wore the next day. We walked over to Northlake Days where Joey and Jillian loved all the rides, lights, games, and attention. Auntie Steph even braved the merry-go-round with Joey and Uncle Don cuddled Jill. Afterwards we went back for some birthday cake and to hang out with Uncle Mikey and his friend and kids before heading back home.

Saturday Joey went to his first movie theater movie... Cars 2! We were surprised to find out that it was in 3D, so Daddy spent some time tinkering with the glasses to get Andrew and Joey some non-3D glasses. It only took the Smurfs preview with something jumping out at the screen to make Joey flinch and not want his glasses on anymore, so Daddy's hard work didn't quite pay off, but the effort was appreciated. The girls were at Grandma's while we were at the York Theater, which I hadn't been to since I was in high school so it was neat to see how things had changed there as well. Joey kept saying that the movie screen was bigger than his house! Even though he watched it without the glasses so I'm sure it was a little blurred at times he loved it, sat threw it really well, and did a great job eating all of his popcorn. We have heard in the past that 3D movies can make kids sick, as Ben has displayed in the past, but Joey actually choked a little bit on popcorn before the movie and got a little sick in Mommy's popcorn bucket. I guess he was helping me with portion control!

Father's Day and past weekend

2011-06-23T12:24:00.000-07:00

I have been very lazy in posting more than just pictures of what is going on. I will do a Joshua's Journey soon. I have a list of things I want to write/share, but that list keeps growing, I'll blame summer and activities, but sometimes it is just so hard to articulate grief and a love to and from beyond this earth.

First off here is Father's Day...

the kids painted Daddy a "trophy" which Mommy was not good at assembling so it became a candy dish for the Hershey Kisses that they gave Daddy along with some buttons that they really enjoyed making (gluing a whole lot!) for Daddy. We headed to Assumption for a breakfast picnic where Joey kept telling us "Josh's house is cool." And when an old Volvo drove down the side road he said "Josh is here!" After I corrected him and said that was not Josh's car Joey then said "Jesus is here!" To that I laughed, told him how Jesus is always with us, just as Josh is always in our hearts and we can talk to either of them whenever we want. However, I do think that Joey thinks Jesus drives a Volvo!

After coming back home and playing around with Daddy it was nap time. After naps Jillian was looking a little bit like a straggly mess with her hair, so I grabbed her purse and brought her up to our bathroom and let her play in the mirror while I attempted to cut her bangs! Yes, first official haircut, even if it is just bangs, so I had to take pictures. She loved sifting through her purse looking through her fake lipstick, keys, brush, and little book, but when it came down to cutting her bangs she did not like it at all! But, she does look a lot better.

After naps we met Nonna and Grandpa for dinner and then headed back to their house for dessert and to play with Uncle Don, Auntie Steph, and Mikey! We will be seeing them again real soon for Northlake Days which is right by their house. Last year Joey loved riding on the cars, but Jill was a little too young to do anything. I'm sure this year will be fun with both of them!

And finally we got our first babysitting job with Jessie on Tuesday. She was a good girl, played hard, ate well, and loved resting on the pile of shoes that we have by the back door. I guess I'll have to leave that mess there for her to cozy up to! And today a few pictures of some inside fun painting, baking, and I set up an obstacle course for them. Hoping for warmer, sunnier weather!

Boomtown Half: The Race That Could Not Be Run

2011-06-18T08:54:00.000-07:00

A little over a week ago I saw a run was going to be held today to benefit the people of Joplin, MO. It was the Boomtown Half Marathon that was to take place in Joplin, MO last weekend. Due to the devastation of the recent tornadoes the race was not going to take place. The race I saw was in support of Joplin and called the Boomtown Benefit: The Race That Could Not Be Run. The distance would be anywhere from 10 yards to 10 miles. There would be no time clock, no fancy t-shirts, no closed streets, no lines of port-a potties, and only water fountains along the course and water bottles at the finish. The entry fee was a donation to United Way for the people of Joplin. Noting the 10 yards to 10 mile distance (not to mention the race was put together in 10 days)I thought it would be perfect to donate and have Joey and I run. I would push Joey in the stroller for 9.75 miles and he would run the last .25 to the finish. He said he was going to beat me! And I believed him! He was really excited, and this morning when I went to get him as I do most races at an early hour he smiled at me, hopped in the car donning his Lightning McQueen race shirt and was ready to go. He persevered through the long (one toilet) potty line doing his dance but keeping dry (the first part of a runner's agony!) We took off and Joey was in his element with the beautiful scenery, looking at the water, the trees, the geese, cheering me and other runners on, and eating his Cheerios. We met a few people, including the race director who I had e-mailed earlier in the week to make sure it'd be okay to bring Joey in the stroller and have him run the 10 yards or whatever it'd turn out to be. We were at 9.94 miles when I pulled him out of the stroller to finish. He was startled by another runner and then didn't want to run or was confused, something. Turns out he fell on the graveled pavement, got a couple of good boo-boos on his knees and was crying. I told him its not easy to run, and when you fall you get up, and the most important thing is to try and finish. So, he whined/cried his way but he did cross the finish and he accepted his medal. I guess sometimes the great visions in your head don't always turn out that way in reality (I wasn't holding hands with Joey smiling and skipping our way across the finish line of his first race, but that is life)! Daddy, Jillian, Auntie, Andrew, and Emma were there to cheer us on too. Andrew made a sign for Joey to show his support. Joey slept the whole way home. Running is tough, but with a little more training I think he'll do just fine!

It was a beautiful day weather wise, and of course a great way to support the people trying to get their lives back together in Joplin. There were 153 registrants accepted, the same number of deaths. Each bib was in remembrance of one of them. My bib read: Gregan D. Sweet, 59, Joplin was at the Pizza Hut with his wife when the tornado hit, according to his son's Facebook posting. His wife survived. Joey's bib: Steven Haack Stephens, 28, Joplin. Died from injuries after he helped rescue his wife and mother when their vehicle was struck by tornado. Worked in construction. Joey's "traumatic" morning is absolutely nothing compared to the devastation the people of Joplin faced and continue to face as they restore their lives and community. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Joplin.

Not sure if this is going to work, but Christy had way better pictures of the whole thing than I did since I was running. Poor Joey, but I can't look at these without laughing. Try clicking here.

Last night Java was also able to meet Grandma's latest addition. The kitchen seems slow going compared to the quick taking to Jessie! Yes, last night Grandma's puppy was named. We had the help of Auntie Pam (#1 Dog Lover), Auntie, Uncle Chris, Andrew, Emma, Mr. and Mrs. Sole, Dom, Nick, and Gigi to help figure out a name. Jessie got quite the welcoming with everyone playing outside and Snowy and Java there to play and pounce with. Jessie seemed to like nestling in for a rest on Mrs. Sole's feet. Grandma reported that Jessie slept fairly well last night waking almost every 2 hours but going back to sleep nicely and taking to her crate really well.
(After the race today we had some outside water fun, so just threw some of those pics on at the end.)

Catching Up...and a new addition to the family!

2011-06-17T13:49:00.001-07:00

I have been negligent again, so here is the mash of pictures and updates from the past 2 weeks:

First some random pictures from the past two weeks. We went to a kids "concert" with one of Joey's friends from school at Wheaton Library but the only picture I had was of Jill and her water bottle. A picture of Joey playing basketball at All Sorts of Sports, the sports camp he is doing on Saturdays with Daddy and loves it! I forgot my camera, but you know Crystal never does! I went out with Crystal, Eva's mom (another CHARGEr)and some of her other friends to help celebrate the end of her cancer treatment. It was a fun day in the city and my first step inside the American Girl store...Jillian it will be a long time before I tell you about that place! And then just other miscellaneous shots.

Last Saturday we had Uncle Paul, Auntie Katherine, Ben, Abbey, and Juliette over...it had been a while since we saw them, but fun of course always fun. The kids had a blast, Joey loves playing with Abbey (and Ben and Juju too), and Juliette and Jillian were a great pair at the table. All the kids left to go play and the two youngest stayed to finish off the desserts! Happy (early)Birthday Auntie Katherine!

Of course it wouldn't be an update without an Arboretum shot. Last Sunday we were able to meet up with Uncle Mark, Auntie Miya, and Nathan and Joey was super excited to see how the tadpoles had grown. Jillian and Nathan had a cute game of peek-a-boo going between the trees. It was a nice relaxing day!

Heading into the weekend we got a surprise phone call. Grandma had been talking about getting a puppy for a while, and the thought was that she would wait until after her addition since it is a mess over there, she travels a lot, is always busy busy busy...but she called this morning to say the breeder was going to drop off the dog to her house so she could see if she liked her. So Auntie came over to put the seats in her minivan and caravan us all out to Grandma's to meet "the puppy." As of now no name. Of course the puppy is not going back, she is here to stay, and we are trying out names for Grandma but not much luck yet. Here are a lot of pictures of this fun loving little girl, and stay tuned because I think she is coming to visit tonight!

Daddy's School

2011-06-02T13:57:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day weekend was also Daddy's birthday, so we took a road trip from nap time on Sunday to nap time on Monday to visit Purdue, aka "Daddy's school." The kids did really well on the trip up there, Jillian slept most of the time, but Joey was excited to see all the farms and point out the cows. He also saw a windmill farm that wasn't there when Daddy was going to school, so it was fun to see the miles of windmills. We walked around campus, and unfortunately a lot was closed due to the holiday weekend, and our arrival in the afternoon on a Sunday, but we still got to walk around and see all things Purdue. We did hit one bookstore that was open to get some more Purdue gear. Joey and Jillian just loved running around campus, looking at the clock tower, the fountains, and the bridges and other fountain off campus. Monday we got to see the West Lafayette Memorial Day parade, Joey loved seeing the firetrucks and army vehicles. When asked, Joey says he liked the pool best at Daddy's school....hmm, I don't remember that hotel being there before either! It was a good trial run for our Disney trip!

We came home and went over to Auntie's house for a holiday cookout and celebration of Uncle Chris and Daddy's birthdays. Yummy!
The pictures are a little out of order...it goes from Monday back to Sunday, but I'm not savvy enough to fix it!

And on a final note, I wanted to share this little poem that I had gotten when Joey started school. I didn't cry when I dropped him off his first day (he did plenty on his own) and I didn't feel bad that day at all. The next week I had received a folder with some of his school stuff in it: a calendar, list of what he'll be doing, etc. and also this poem that in reading made me think of Josh, how Joey is growing up, how Jillian will be right behind him in school, and how time just goes too fast; what may seem like the littlest things are so important. This was the "my kid is going to school" tear jerker for me, and I had posted this on my fridge with all the kids pictures, but wanted to leave it here as well since this is more of the scrapbook these days. I know a lot of kids are getting out of school for the summer, graduating, maybe starting their first job, and this poem just hits me a little each time I read it, or see my kids "just playing"...

Just Playing
When I'm building in the block area,
please don't say I'm "Just Playing."
For, you see, I'm learning as I play,
About balance, I may be an architect someday.

When I'm getting all dressed up,
Setting the table, caring for the babies,
Don't get the idea I'm "Just Playing."
I may be a mother or a father someday.

When you see me up to my elbows in paint,
Or standing at an easel, or molding and shaping clay,
Please don't let me hear you say, "He is Just Playing."
For, you see, I'm learning as I play.
I just might be a teacher someday.

When you see me engrossed in a puzzle or some "playing" at my school,
Please don't feel the time is wasted in "play."
For, you see, I'm learning as I play.
I'm learning to solve problems and concentrate.
I may be in business someday.

When you see me cooking or tasting foods,
Please don't think that because I enjoy it, it is "Just Play."
I'm learning to follow directions and see the differences.
I may be a cook someday.

When you see me learning to skip, hop, run, and move my body,
Please don't say I'm "Just Playing."
For, you see, I'm learning as I play.
I'm learning how my body works.
I may be a doctor, nurse, or athlete someday.

When you ask me what I've done at school today,
And I say, "I just played."
Please don't misunderstand me.
For, you see, I'm learning as I play.
I'm learning to enjoy and be successful in my work.
I'm preparing for tomorrow.
Today, I am a child and my work is play.

House Picnic...

2011-05-29T04:55:00.000-07:00

Thursday Joey's last day of school picnic was cut quite short. It was supposed to be from 11am-1pm. We arrived promptly at 11 and were greeted by one of his teachers and saw another family. Slowly a few other families showed up, but it was very windy and rainy out that no one lasted very long. I even attempted to wipe down playground equipment with a towel I had in the car, but most everyone (well adults at least) were miserable and the kids had wet pants from sitting and sliding around on the playground. So in an attempt to warm up we stopped at Dunkin' for some coffee and a donut for the kids and went home where Daddy joined us for an indoor picnic! Not as fun as being outside with all of Joey's school friends, but we exchanged numbers and some of us will get together this summer.

Happy Birthday Uncle Chris! Here are some pics of Joey and Jillian making a carp wind sock for Uncle Chris' birthday, and Joey showing off the finished product while Jillian plays with her dress up doll.

And of course yesterday we had another Arboretum visit! We went when they opened so I could get in a 7 mile run...pushing 2 kids in a stroller that had somewhat flattened wheels, up really big hills...lets just say it was a challenging but fun run! Joey and Jillian ate their cereal and grapes while I ran and greeted other runners and bikers which many commented on how I was going to get those kids up the hills! Afterwards I changed and we played around until lunchtime. A lot of pictures probably seem like the same thing, but Joey just amazes me how "strong and brave" he is on the ropes and how Jillian is fearless on some things as well. Joey loved seeing the growth of the tadpoles from the last time we were there and did not want to leave that area at all. We finally got them to settle down for a quick craft before heading home.

Last Official School Day, Just Play, and Baby Shower

2011-05-24T11:10:00.000-07:00

Quite a bit to update here...I am going to go a bit out of order and talk about today and then move back to the weekend.

Today was Joey's last official day of school. Thursday he has an all school picnic with parents and siblings too, but today was at school and again parents and siblings were invited. Joey showed us all the fun things he gets to do at school: the sensory table, painting, reading books, snacks, potty breaks, playing outside, play-doh, you name it we did it! Jillian was completely into it as well and Joey's teachers got a kick out of her playing house and setting her own little table when the kids were playing with Play-Doh. They said she is definitely ready for school! Joey gave his teachers big hugs before leaving, and a lot of moms exchanged contact information so we can hopefully get some play dates in this summer as well!

This weekend was Just Play a fun outdoor event for kids and adults. It is sort of like a huge health fair but with games and activities for kids too. There was Legoland, DuPage Children's Musuem, BMX professional bikers, firemen, and so much more for the kids to do! I had to work the Group Exercise booth for the park district on Saturday but Daddy, Joey, Jillian, Andrew, Emma, Auntie, and Grandma played! Looks like they had a great time!

Sunday we had a fun brunch with Auntie Trisha and Uncle Alex (and the rest of the crew). We went to Just Play to burn off some more energy, and then it was a quick nap for Jillian before she was scooped up to go to Uncle Kevin and Nicole's baby shower. Jillian did very well considering she was on limited sleep and asked to sit for a length of time. She loved the cupcakes, and was happy to have coloring books and crayons waiting for her--thank you!

And then just some miscellaneous pics... I love the pictures of Joey and Jillian with their blankets in their chairs. Joey favors my Chicago Marathon blanket which suits him well since he is my race day buddy, and Jillian was sporting the blanket I loved when I was little. I used to call it "Bubble Covers" because it reminded me of the Hubba Bubba Bubble Gum that came out with two flavors in 1 piece--remember that? Anyways, the name stuck and it was so cute to see Jillian with Bubble Covers.

2011-05-16T18:44:00.000-07:00

Remember just last week when some of us turned on our air conditioner? When the thermometer hit the upper 80's/low 90's? When we took out the pool/slide thing for the first time? Well, we had it out again last Wed. when the weather was nice and warm, but ready to rain. Luckily it didn't rain until close to bedtime that night, and then of course the winds shifted and we went back into our sweatshirts. But, we did get Grandma, Auntie, Andrew, and Emma to check out the water fun too! We can't wait for the warm weather to stay!

Even thought the weather was quite chilly and rainy this weekend, I still was able to get everyone to accompany me to the Arboretum (yes, I am addicted that place!). We didn't last terribly long, but were able to get some fresh air in the morning playing in the Children's Garden. The lady even showed us the tadpoles! There are millions of them, literally, and in another month they should be turning into toads! We stayed inside to have our lunch, but still had quite the view. And to top off our visit, Uncle Kevin was there too! Joey played shy, but managed to give Uncle Kevin a high five. I wish I had remembered to pull out the camera! Hopefully we'll run into him again there!

After a good rest from the great outdoors, we headed over to Uncle Paul, Auntie Katherine, Ben, Abbey, and Juliette's house! We hadn't seen them in a while, and the kids were so excited and had so much fun. Daddy's birthday is on Memorial Day, but since we don't get together as often as we'd like, they made Daddy a yummy cookie cake (his favorite!) and the perfect birthday crown! Thanks for the great company, delicious food, and birthday wishes!

Mother's Day Weekend

2011-05-10T13:06:00.000-07:00

I had a great mother's day weekend! The weather was perfect and everyone was in good spirits. I had just gotten an Arboretum membership so that was all I wanted to do on Saturday! Joey and Jillian love being outside and they had so much fun running around the Arboretum. I ended up upgrading the membership, long story short now we can get more people in for free and I know it will pay for itself in the long run, got a free bag which is now my new diaper bag (I look like a tree hugging hippy, but that's ok!), and the best part was it didn't rain! We started off at the Children's maze and then did the big maze. We headed into the Children's Garden where there was so much for everyone to do. Joey and Jillian loved climbing and running around everywhere. I will just let the pictures speak for themselves...

It was a perfect day!

Sunday Joey and I woke up early, Phil and Jillian joined us a little later and after a light breakfast we headed out to Uncle Chris' work for brunch! There were some pretty fountains, trees, flowers, and of course the green to take pictures so we took advantage a little bit and tried to round everyone up. After brunch we went on a golf cart ride around the course. It was another beautiful day to be outside! We headed home for naps, and then it was back to Elmhurst, this time the destination was Grandma's house. Grandma was gone for the weekend, but came back after dinner so we all crashed her house and had some pizza and waited for her to get home!

Another update is that we finally took out the pool/slide that Daddy and Nonna were crazy about getting for the kids. The weather was really warm and humid today so Daddy came out during lunch and Nonna and Grandpa stopped over to see the unveiling of the monstrous water park! The kids loved it, took too short of naps because they just wanted to get back out there again!

And finally, here are a few random pictures. The first few are of the kids feeding Daddy some popcorn. I love popcorn and so do they. They love watching the popcorn pop in the air popper, and then feeding the popcorn to Daddy. Daddy claims to not like popcorn, but he never refuses when he's hand fed by his kids! The one of Jillian sleeping is the only one I have from Uncle Chris and Aunt Brooke's baby shower because after she woke up she fell back asleep on me which didn't allow me much movement for other pictures!

Joshua's Journeys #57 Mother's Day Again

2011-05-08T05:52:00.000-07:00

I miss Joshua every day, but holidays and anniversaries (of surgeries, milestones, and many other anniversaries of his life) make me ache for him that much more. Mother's Day is certainly one of those times. Joshua made me a mom before he was even born. He taught me to persevere in trying to get and stay pregnant. Once I did get pregnant with Josh and Joey, Josh started giving me a run for my money. The stubborn little guy wanted into this world very badly but also wanted me to slow down and realize the journey I was on; from my cerclage at 19 weeks which put me on bed rest, along with numerous hospital visits and stays, not to mention the terbutaline pump and other efforts to keep them in as long as possible. Then at 32 weeks and 6 days the shock of being told Josh is pushing way to hard to get out and my water will break so its go time happens and the fireworks begin! Josh is delivered first without a cry, nurses rushing over him to get him breathing, rushing him out of the room only catching a quick glimpse of him in his warmer as he is whisked past me, and then seeing Joey somewhat briefly as well before entering recovery. Not having been able to hold either of my children, I was driven once again to get up and recover as quickly as I could so I could get to the NICU and see the boys I had been dreaming of for so long (well, not as long as I should have, but long enough!). Within 2 hours of an emergency c-section I mustered up the strength to go to the bathroom to get the catheter out and walk so I could get up and see the two sweetest little guys in the world!
Josh asked me to be a mom in so many ways from the very beginning, learning to sacrifice, prioritize, trust, and most importantly love. I never knew as most moms find out once they have their children that I could love so much and on so many levels. I learned in a trail by fire way how to care for two boys, one not being able to be heard when he cries, needing me to have that one ear open while sleeping instinct in case he needs to be suctioned. Having twins in the NICU and then one at home and one in the hospital, followed by the two of them at home, then Josh back in the hospital, and his passing, Josh also taught me the importance and strength of my marriage and of the people to which I am closest to. It was with Josh's life that I learned what I truly value the most in my life and to not be afraid to share love with others.

Words cannot articulate how I miss you and wish you were here each and every day. I cannot wait to see you again. Thank you for being the first to make me a mommy. "Mommy loves Joshy."

Blog Award

2011-05-05T05:53:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I am one to delete e-mails that are chain e-mails, hitting the button as fast as I can before I find out what bad luck I will encounter if I don't forward to how many ever people in how ever short amount of time, etc. But, I can not ignore something from a friend like Ellen. Ellen is an adult with CHARGE that lives in Sydney and I am so excited to meet her this summer at the conference. Ellen passed on the Versatile Blogger Award to me (and 6 others) so I am doing my part as best I can...

Here's what I have to do:
*Thank the person who gave you this award
*Name7 things about yourself
*Pass the award along to 15 other bloggers

Thank you so much for this award Ellen, I am honored to receive it from you!
7 things about myself:
1- I get nervous when people ask me to name 7 (or any number of) things about myself because I don't think I'm that interesting!
2- I have 3 children 1 is in heaven, 2 are sitting with me at the table drawing while I blog this
3- My honeymoon was spent in Australia from Sydney to Cairnes. I wish I knew Ellen at that time!
4- I can not wait to meet Ellen in July at the CHARGE conference, as well as see many others that I haven't seen in 2 years and some others that I still haven't met in person but are in contact with through blogs or e-mail.
5- I just spent the last of my birthday money (and added a little bit to it)on a Morton Arboretum membership and cannot wait to go on Saturday! (Hint--blog post will probably be of the kids at the Children's Garden, I can't wait!)
6- I don't like doing puzzles...Joey is really good at them and pretty quick too, but I have never been a fan of puzzles!
7- I am so hopeful that the rain goes away for a while and we get some warmer days because I love being outside with Joey and Jillian!

And now to pass on to 15 bloggers, this will be tricky. I will need to duplicate some of Ellen's because I don't know that many bloggers and don't think all that many even read my blog! So here's my try:
Crystal and Eva M., Carrie Ann and Abby, Marissa S., Victoria and Moriah N., Katherine S., Lisa and Kennedy W., Tracy R., Theresa R., Chris W., Amy and Ben R., Karen and Lily R., Amy and Max, Catherine and Alexis S., Prayers of Hope, and Jack W. Whew, I think I have exhausted all blogs that I follow or know on this one!

Joey at the Southwest Half Marathon

2011-05-02T14:55:00.001-07:00

Sunday I ran a half marathon. I was not expecting to do well, coming off of a long winter, but was using the race to stay in running shape to start training later this month for a marathon. Well, the race was in Palos Heights, and I know why the height part is part of the town's name. It was a very, very hilly course. It was also a very windy day, topped off with running over many bridges that had no protection from the winds so even the downhills at times felt like uphills. I was more than pleasantly surprised with the course and the day itself. I had a personal best in the half marathon and that was with lots of wind and hills. So of course that leads me to wonder how well I may have done if the conditions and course were a bit more favorable...ah, it keeps me coming back for more.

Anyways, I had told Joey I was going to be running in a race and he was super excited. He kept telling me what color shirt I would be wearing. He had a long day on Saturday with Auntie Brooke and Uncle Chris' baby shower, he didn't go but he partied at Grandpa's house the whole day and after the shower up until bedtime. So I was a little hesitant to wake him at 5:20 to go to Grandma's house and then head out to Palos Heights, but I went in his room and touched his back and whispered "Joey do you want to go to the race?" He whispered quite loudly, "yeah!" And he sat straight up and extended his arms up for me to grab him. I told him he could sleep on the way to Grandma's but he told me he didn't want to sleep. He was talking to me the whole way. We transferred to Grandma's car and headed out for the race. Joey is such a trouper and really loves watching the races. Even though they are not cars like I know he'd prefer he makes me smile and I can't wait to see him (and Grandma too!) as I'm finishing. There is nothing quite like putting my medal around his neck.

At the end of the race I had given Joey my medal and a reporter asked to take a picture of Joey and I and ask me about the race. So without further ado, click here for Joey's first press release.

2011-05-01T17:57:00.000-07:00

Saturday Jillian attended her first baby shower. It was Uncle Chris and Aunt Brooke's shower, but while Jillian attended it, she did not see much of it at all. Jillian was a little crabby from teething, and the timing wasn't to her advantage so she ended up falling asleep just before the food came out. Auntie Miya and Nathan were so nice to let Jillian rest in Nathan's stroller...sorry Jillian couldn't stay awake to play very much Nathan! Jillian woke up briefly for me to take her out of the stroller and fall back asleep. She didn't wake up until presents were halfway done making a liar out of me. I had told everyone how Jillian doesn't sleep well and won't go down for a nap unless she is in her crib...wow did she make me put my foot in my mouth! Jillian and Nathan had fun playing with the balloons after the presents were opened, and Jillian did well the rest of the time back and Nonna and Grandpa's house.

Construction Trucks!

2011-04-26T11:54:00.000-07:00

Grandma is having some construction done at her house! She decided after years of talking about it, that it was finally time to blow out the back of her house and expand her kitchen! After some patient waiting with the weather they started their digging today! Grandma was gone for the day working, but told us the workers would still be coming this morning. At breakfast I asked Joey if he wanted to go to the library like we usually do on Tuesdays or go and see the construction trucks at Grandmas...his answer was Grandmas! He was a bit confused as to why she wasn't there, but was easily distracted by all the excitement. Joey and Jillian loved looking at the digger and dumper, lifting all the mud into the big truck! Joey tried telling the construction worker that it was too muddy and he should take a bath! Exciting times at Grandma's...

Happy Easter!

2011-04-25T18:41:00.000-07:00

For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him shall not parish but have everlasting life. John 3:16

That is probably one of the most well known bible passages, and for a perfect reason. As I have mentioned in the past I am comforted by the fact that Josh passed away during lent. It is a constant reminder to me that God is good, that I will see Joshua again, and that Christ died so that we may live eternally with Him. Happy Easter!

We started off our day with a quick look for Easter baskets and then got dressed and headed out to church. Afterward we went to Assumption where Joey and Jillian got to play and bring some Easter Lilies. Jillian wore the jacket that my Grandma Rose made for me when I was a baby, it fit her perfectly!

Next we headed to Grandma's house where we found Andrew and Emma waiting to start our first Easter egg hunt! The kids had a lot of fun, thanks Auntie Christy for hiding them all so well and filling them! Instead of Target bags, next year we'll have to remember to bring our baskets...like I said it was our first year! After the egg hunt it was time to color some more eggs. Grandma saw how much they all liked coloring eggs last weekend that she bought some more and boiled them for the kids to color again! We sat down to enjoy our ravioli, ham, lamb, and veggies, and way too many desserts. The weather was so nice that we were able to go outside and play t-ball, ride bikes, run up and down the block, blow bubbles and just enjoy the day. Of course we forgot to bring the camera out, but trust me we all enjoyed the sunshine and warm weather!

Saturday we went to Nonna and Grandpa's for an early Easter celebration. The kids got baskets filled with toys and candy. Jillian enjoyed sporting Nonna's boa and of course the chocolate carrot, and Joey loved his Fearless Freddy Thomas train as well as the bubbles! They loved all the goodies, thank you!

On Friday we had a rainy day so the kids and I stayed in and painted! Joey and Jillian really enjoyed themselves, Jillian got her face pretty well, and Joey was very concentrated on his masterpieces. After a wardrobe change and some cleaning up we headed to the park district for our first day of Mommy and Me Bootcamp. I am teaching a 30 minute class for moms and their babies/kids. They have one child, I have 2 and they are the 2 oldest therefore most rambunctious out of the whole group! But they really enjoyed it, and I did too!

Gearing Up For Easter

2011-04-20T12:51:00.000-07:00

So we had a pretty busy weekend and still didn't get quite everything we wanted to do in (we missed Eva's birthday party on Saturday night, but had a much needed, and planned for a while, adult only dinner out with Paul and Katherine!). So here is what we have been up to...

Sunday we went out to Grandma's house to make our annual Easter ravioli. Auntie brought some donuts that everyone enjoyed, but Jillian really seemed to like getting into the chocolate frosting on hers! After some nourishment (don't tell anyone I'm an RD!) we made some ravioli for Easter. All the kids really got into it this year which was a lot of fun. Grandma made 3 batches of dough, Auntie Christy had the boys set up with the pasta press rolling out the dough into sheets, and I had the girls playing with flour, measuring cups, and pretty much whatever they wanted to make a mess while filling and sealing the ravioli. After some cleaning up we sat everyone back down at the table to color Easter eggs. Joey and Andrew had a great time coloring the eggs, Emma was more interested in trying to suck on the dipper that holds the eggs, whereas Jillian didn't want to use it at all, she just stuck her whole hand in the colored water to dunk her egg in and fetch it out when she was ready. A messy, but fun day! After heading home for naps we all met back up at the mall to attempt an Easter bunny visit. It was 4:15 and we showed up to the area where the bunny was. But he wasn't there...he was taking a break. Ok, so we stayed in line and at 4:30 when he was back we waited, and waited, and waited. Let me also tell you that our mall recently got a train (not sure if its for the holiday or what) that takes kids through the mall. Andrew had been on it before, but Joey had not, and the two were fixated on the train. So after waiting a little while longer, Auntie and I looked at each other, I left the line to see what the train line looked like and $15 later we had sent Grandma off with all the kids on a train ride! The real kicker was that as we were walking back to the train station to meet everyone we saw the Easter Bunny coming back from yet another break! We saw the line and wouldn't have moved in almost an hour! At that rate, the Easter Bunny is going to be late!

We weren't too upset about not visiting the Easter bunny. Last year we didn't have Jillian sit with the Easter bunny even though it was her first Easter because she had fallen asleep and Joey was terrified. Saturday Jillian proved to us that she loves the Easter bunny and tried booking towards him before we could even check in at the Bunny Bash! Uncle Mark, Auntie Miya, and Nathan joined us for the Bunny Bash at our park district where we took a quick picture of the kids with the Easter Bunny, Joey bounced in the bounce house, Nathan, Joey, and Jillian played some games, pet some of the bunnies, chicks, ducks, and lambs at the petting zoo, danced around to some music, made some crafts, and tumbled around on the mats for the Easter egg hunt. Thanks for coming to play with us Nathan! Note, Nathan is a fast guy...every time I tried to snap his picture he'd turn around or walk out of the picture!

As I mentioned earlier we had a nice dinner Saturday night with Paul and Katherine. Here are some of the other happenings in the past few weeks. Remember when it was in the 70's and the kids didn't need to wear coats? Hopefully those days are coming back, but during that time we took advantage of as much outside time as we could. Java and Snowy even got a play date in too!

Joshua's Journeys #56 Missing Holland

2011-04-07T10:53:00.000-07:00

I received an e-mail today from a neighbor of the beautiful tulips that the Netherlands grow. I smiled looking at the bright, happy colored pictures, the windmills, and the peaceful atmosphere in which the pictures seemed to be taken. Ever since then I can't stop thinking about the poem (some of you are already nodding knowing what I am going to write) "Welcome to Holland." It is a poem written for those that have a child with special needs. It is about how you imagine things to be when you are pregnant and dreaming of that perfect family, but then find yourself somewhat detoured from where you thought you were going, and your arrival into Holland.

I remember the first time I received this poem, which I must've received a few handful of copies the first week or two that Josh was diagnosed. I remember reading it, and really being bothered by it, I didn't like it for several reasons, and a few things I still disagree with in terms of my feeling of entering Holland (especially the part where it says its slower--if you are booked solid from one appointment to the next and needing to remember tube feedings, suction catheters, special bottles, noses, etc. let alone the packed diaper bag for two infants then I don't want to know what fast paced is!). But I kept those copies, reread them from time to time, and realize it is a good way for some to understand what it is like to begin this amazing journey when you had no idea you would be going there. I feel like there is magic in Holland, only a parent of a child with special needs knows how amazing their child is, they have a connection that no one would ever know. Saying that I won't take the things Joey and Jillian accomplish for granted doesn't touch the surface of what it feels like to be in Holland and see your child do something as simple as eating a half a jar of baby bananas at 3:30 in the morning, how you don't care about the sleep you've lost over the past few weeks or months because those swallows, and not having to suction or look for the blue food coloring coming out of the trach, and trying to catch it on video for Daddy, the speech therapist that has become a good friend, or anyone to brag to and understand what this accomplishment means, it is truly priceless to have a trip to Holland. How I wish I could return...
I love you Joshua...

Welcome to Holland by Emily Pearl Kingsley
I am often asked to describe the experience of raising a child with a disability to try to help people who have not shared that unique experience to understand it, to imagine how it would feel. It is like this:

When you're going to have a baby, it's like planning a fabulous vacation trip to Italy. You buy a bunch of guidebooks and make your wonderful plans...the Coliseum, Michaelangelo's David, the gondolas of Venice. You may learn some handy phrases in Italian. It's all very exciting.

After months of eager anticipation, the day finally arrives. You pack your bags and off you go. Several hours later, the plane lands. The stewardess comes in and says, "Welcome to Holland."

"Holland?!", you say, "What do you mean Holland? I signed up for Italy! I'm supposed to be in Italy. All my life, I've dreamed of going to Italy!"

The stewardess replies, "There's been a change in the flight plan. We've landed in Holland and it is here you must stay."

The important thing is that they haven't taken you to a horrible, disgusting, filthy place full of pestilence, famine and disease. It is just a different place. So, you must go and buy new guidebooks. You must learn a whole new language. You will meet a whole new group of people you would never had met. It is just a different place. It is slower paced than Italy, less flashy than Italy, but after you have been there a while and you catch your breath, you look around and you begin to notice that Holland has windmills, Holland has tulips, Holland even has Rembrants. But everyone you know is busy coming and going from Italy and they're all bragging about what a wonderful time they had there. And for the rest of your life you will say, "Yes, that's where I was supposed to go. That is where I had planned."

The pain of that will never, ever, ever go away because the loss of that dream is a very significant loss. But if you spend your life mourning the fact that you didn't go to Italy, you may never be free to enjoy the very special, the very lovely things about Holland.

Jillian's 15 month check

2011-04-05T10:54:00.000-07:00

Today we went in for Jillian's 15 month checkup. Jillian did great. It helped that this past weekend we went to the library for a Teddy Bear Clinic. They read some stories about Teddy Bears and then had a clinic where they had one of the librarians dressed as a doctor and another as a nurse. They asked each kid a few questions about their bears "What's your bear's name? Is he big or small? Do you hear his heartbeat?" Then they gave Teddy the Bear (Joey and Jillian don't really have teddy bears that they have any attachment to, so we used some random teddy bears we had so Joey didn't have a name to say for his bear so the doctor said it was Teddy the Bear) a checklist of the exam, a certificate for Teddy's check up, and a sticker for Joey and a small one for his Teddy. Jillian wasn't quite ready to sit through that exam since it was getting close to lunch time, so we didn't make her.

Speeding back up to today, Jillian did great for her exam. Joey said he would take Jillian to the doctor like he took Teddy and he did really well too. If you remember in the past Joey threw up at Jillian's appointment because he was so terrified! This time Joey did so good talking to Jill, telling her she was doing good, and watching bug eyed as she got her shots. We talked about how Joey will come back in 3 months for her 18 month appointment and his 3 year appointment and show her that you don't have to cry with shots. Jillian did do well. She cried only as long as it took to get her pants back on, and she was very interested in the crayon type band-aids she got. She did fall asleep on the way home, but she did very well at the visit. She was given a clean bill of health and her doctor smiled as he walked in the room and asked her if her middle name was Twinkle Toes because she was dancing around on the table while she was waiting for him. So here are her stats:
Weight: 23 pounds, 6 ounces putting her in the 60 %ile
Height: 31.25 inches, putting her in the 76%ile for height

Here is our little girl sporting her first set of pigtails. Her hair is still a little short for a pony tail, and a lot falls out in her pig tails too, but Daddy was wrapped around her finger a little tighter after he saw her in her piggies!

April Fun!

2011-04-05T10:47:00.000-07:00

This weekend we some time outside, even though it is still a little on the chilly side, and went to the zoo. I kept telling Joey I was going to feed him to the animals and I'd pick him up and pretend to put him over the fence, and he would tell me that animals eat "fruits and vegetables, not Joey!" The kids had a fun time looking at the lambs including 3 baby ones that were "so cute," the bunnies, the chickens (Joey would keep walking past saying "hi chics!"),the "stinky pigs," the cows, donkey, llama, and of course the ducks!

Sunday night we celebrated (yes again!) Emma's first birthday with her favorite foods for dinner and then some yummy cupcakes and desserts. We also tried to get the cousins together for a good picture, but we had to settle for these action shots. Happy Birthday again Emma!

Happy 1st Birthday Emma!

2011-04-03T11:16:00.000-07:00

Today is Emma's 1st birthday (my niece/goddaughter)! Althought these pictures are out of order a bit, here is a glimpse of Emma's 1st year!

Happy Birthday Emma!

Happy Birthday Party Emma!

2011-03-31T11:30:00.000-07:00

Emma, my niece and goddaughter turns 1 on Sunday, however her grandparents were in this past week and her mommy was on spring break, so the party was this past Sunday. I had the horrific honor of making her smash cake, which didn't turn out as my mind had pictured, but Emma still seemed to enjoy it. I think she really liked the fact that I had so many mistakes in the process that there was almost an inch of icing on her cake! Her party theme was music and dancing, so I made a music not (yes I have to tell you in case you don't get it from the pictures because I am not very artistic). I put the music note on sheet music of "Happy Birthday." Happy Birthday party Emma, more pics of her real birthday to come after Sunday!

Here is her big, happy first birthday party...

And a few random pics of Joey and Jillian, mostly of Joey being a goof. He demanded the other night that it was too bright at 8:15 pm so he needed his sunglasses on to watch "a little Mickey before bed."

Joey's First Day of School!

2011-03-24T12:09:00.000-07:00

(this is a longer post than it probably should be so feel free to just scroll to the pictures!)

Yes, you read that correctly. Joey had his first day of school today! I know, next week is spring break, the school year is almost over, what the heck are you talking about, right? Well, I have been in the process for about 3 weeks now of looking at preschools for Joey. I had narrowed my search from 6 to 3 and then 2 and was in debate over our church's school and another school. We had gone to the open house for our church school and Joey met the teachers, Joey played at the train table for a bit, of course was really shy and had me carry him down the halls, but also wanted to go back in when we got to the car. We thought for sure we would be going there this fall. Before going in to the open house I had called the other school that I was in a toss up with and left a message to receive more information. I had heard nothing but good things about this school but wanted to talk to someone and visit as well. I spoke with the director week and a half ago, and this past Monday went in to visit the school (sans Joey). Upon entering I felt it was going to be a good fit for Joey. I really like the rooms, the teacher that I met and the director. Another major benefit was that they have a 2 year old program. Jillian's birthday is Dec. 30 so her and Joey will most likely be 2 years apart in school even though they are 17 months apart because Jill would have to be 3 by Sept. 1 for that school year. Anyways, with this school she can enter as a 2 year old and can do so in January.

So, I was somewhat still in debate, but love this school for many reasons. Joey being so incredibly shy, I feel needs a bit more socialization than the Wed. and Thurs. with "Ms. Rhonda" over at the park district. So after touring this school and seeing that there was a spot available on Thursdays for him to join now we decided we would give it a try. So yesterday after teaching and picking him up from "Ms. Rhonda's" I drove over to the school to show him the playground that he will be able to play at when he's in school. I explained that the building was the school, some of the activities he'd be doing, some of the friends he'd meet, etc. Joey does know a boy who is a month apart from him that we met at the library...James. James and Joey have become friends at the library, and James is at the school, so I kept telling Joey he would see James there. His eyes would light up when I told him that, but I was hoping he didn't think I meant James the red train from Thomas and Friends!

We got him a new backpack last night that he picked out and he has been sporting around. He was so excited to see his school yesterday and was talking about it all morning, barely eating breakfast (surprise, surprise!). So we headed over to school and when we got to the parking lot Joey said "I don't want to meet my teachers." Luckily the new backpack distracted him enough to allow me to get Jillian and walk him in. We were first to arrive since we were the newbies. He met his 2 teachers and started to play, hanging close to me and making me sit next to him. After a while (and with the help of the trains they had) I was able to stand up and walk over to Jill who had seated herself at the table and was working on a magnetic Noah's Arc puzzle. The teachers laughed and said they thought she was ready for school already. Yes, the social butterfly will not have a problem with me leaving her when that time comes! She also made herself at home with the play kitchen and some of the farm animals. I was there about 10 minutes to get Joey comfortable. James had arrived and Joey and him were playing a little. I told Joey I was leaving and he grabbed my leg and said no! I looked at the teacher and asked if I could sneak out and she said I could hanlde it any way I wanted. So I told Joey I was helping Jill. I picked her up, said goodbye to Joey and told him I'd be back in a little bit. Of course he cried...

Jillian and I came home and made some cupcakes. I used to bake a lot with Joey when he was Jillian's age and he loved it, but hadn't allowed Jillian to be on the step stool by herself in fear that Joey would knock her out of the way or someone would end up hurt. So we had some downtime to cook and play.

We arrived back at the school 10 minutes early and saw Joey playing outside with some friends. I snapped a few pictures from the car before getting Jillian out and picking Joey up inside. Joey was so happy to be at school. He told me he was crying and saying "mommy, mommy." I told him I'd always come back and he should just have fun. The teacher said he cried for about 10-15 minutes, but when she grabbed a book and sat on the mat he went over with her and stopped crying and was fine the rest of the time. He has not stopped talking about all the fun he has had at school and told us he wants to go back tomorrow! Unfortunately it is spring break next week, but the following week he will be back again!

Oh, and of course Java always needs her little drama too...Java has a case of hives. She always seems to get them when spring first hits. She has always had sensitive skin, it just surprises us every year still. Not pretty picture so I'll save you on that one, but thought I'd keep you updated on all of us!

Joshua's Journeys #55 Checking back in...

2011-03-23T13:14:00.000-07:00

It has been a rough week, as expected in many ways. Many people have asked how Joey has held up this year, since he has classically shown signs of missing Josh. He still did this year and is able to verbalize things a bit more which as I have mentioned in the past is heart warming and heartbreaking all at the same time. Joey has displayed some major clingy and needy behavior towards Phil and I especially when we are going to leave. I take Joey to a park district on Wed. and Thurs. while I teach for 2 hours and he has not had any issues since the first few weeks over a year ago, but this past week he has cried when I was gone and told me that he was when I returned. Upon discussing Josh with the day care ladies their eyes bugged out and said "That is it! I remember you saying that before, and it is so true! He hasn't been like this before and he just started it last week." Joey has had issues (throwing up) when not allowed to sit on one of our laps during a meal, a behavior we don't encourage. In addition Joey has cried like an infant, even screaming at times throughout the night. The night of the 12th and 13th he was up almost every hour needing consoling. And his naps were much of the same (when he's been taking them...another story). Joey is able to talk about him more, and one day coming home from work he pointed out our house as we were driving down the block and said "I live there, and you and Daddy, and Jill too." I said "What about Java, and Josh?" He said "Java live there, but not Josh. Josh is in heaven with Jesus." There are many, many more examples I could give you over the past week that Joey has shown of missing and knowing Josh is gone, but don't want to type forever. One final sweet thing on the night of the 13th after baths, Joey went in his room with Daddy and got his pj's on. When Jillian and I walked in he was donning the Corduroy the Bear pajamas that Josh had received from his Grandma but were too big for him to fit into. They are 2T's and fit Joey perfectly. I walked in and he said "I'm wearing these for Josh!" Joey definitely has a bond with his brother that is special and one that I will never even know completely.

We went downstairs and popped in the video that we posted on the blog. The video of Josh's life that Phil and I worked feverishly on up until the minute we left for Josh's wake. Joey and Jillian would point to the tv and say "that's Josh!" or Joey would say "Look its me and my brother Josh!" We let the kids play and had the video on for a short while until Mickey became their priority. After they went to bed Phil and I watched the video and reminisced. Earlier that day we brought food to the NICU staff like we did last year, to honor their work and love for our family and all the other families that pass through the NICU. We keep in touch with a few and are blessed that they still remember and talk about Josh quite a bit as well.

Monday we decided to celebrate the family that we have. We brought some flowers to Assumption and Joey and Jillian enjoyed being outdoors and going into the chapel to light candles. We then headed to the Children's Museum to let them play and have fun. We had never been there before and there was a lot for both of them to do and keep their interest. After lunch at Stir Crazy, one of our favorite places, we headed back home for Joey and Jillian to nap. I received a phone call from Tina, one of the NICU nurses who was one of Josh's primaries. We had already seen Bethany, his night primary nurse from the NICU the previous Sunday, so it was nice to talk to both of them. Tues. night we had a Family Advisory Council Meeting at the hospital and I went out for a drink with Tina and we talked for a good long time. It was very nice to catch up, reminisce, and comfort each other. Tina had lost her sister at the same time Josh passed away and was unable to make it to his funeral because she was in Florida where her sister lived. So we both feel a connection to each other at this time and know we feel Josh's love pulling us together. Of course I was on my way home when I realized I got a text from Bethany who was up in the NICU wondering why I didn't go and visit her since I was at the hospital for the meeting. She is helping us plan our Disney trip since she is Ms. Disney and got Josh and Joey their first Mickey dolls, and Jillian her first Minnie (which as we all know she loves!). I am glad to see her on Friday again as well.

Anyways, sorry to ramble off subject, but thank you all for the comforting wishes and thoughts. We hope that Josh is remembered every day as we remember him each and every day, but know that at this time we feel his absence even more and relive what the night of March 13 and early hours of March 14 have left us.

To keep catching up here, this past weekend we went to Arlington Race Track with Grandma, Auntie Christy, Andrew, and Emma and saw all the rescue dogs. Grandma seems to be getting the itch to look at and soon get a new dog...probably puppy! So it was a lot of fun to watch the kids pet all the dogs. The warmer weather allowed us to take Joey's bike outside and see how he does on the pavement. He does really well! He biked all the way to the park and already seems to know the way on his own. He had one spill on the downhill home the first time, but now knows that he needs to apply the breaks a little bit to keep in control. His bike is now officially an outside bike and he is loving it. Now if we could keep the weather warm! Jillian has also been enjoying the outside time, playing with Joey's older bikes, chalk, the little slide in our yard, and even taking a turn at t-ball.

2011-03-14T00:24:00.000-07:00

Our Beloved Joshua from Phillip Kurby on Vimeo.

2011-03-11T10:36:00.000-08:00

Here are some pics from this past week: Joey resting on Java before he went up for his nap, the kids playing in the basement, Jillian falling asleep in the basement when we had a house full of guests. She just got her new Minnie cup and was so excited, but apparently tired too! Jillian's new happening is to pull books into her bed after naps and when she wakes up in the morning, so this is our usual site when we walk into her room these days. And finally, Java just had her hematoma surgery on her other ear, so hopefully she won't have any more now!

Joshua's Journeys #53 Behold, the face of God

2011-03-09T11:08:00.000-08:00

It does not get easier. Who ever said that? Must've been someone who just wishes all is well. I think last year I was so anxious anticipating March 14 that when the day actually came I had already had my catharsis and did "okay." Not to say I am not anxious this year, I feel I am just as much, but I think I thought the pain, the longing, the healing would have happened by now. I am reminded daily that this is a life long process, that I will never "get over it" nor should I. I was placed in this role for a reason. I have learned so much about who my family and friends really are, how I want to surround myself with love and not worry about petty things that ultimately do not matter, but to live each moment.

I am not going to lie. I ache and I hurt, but I also love and want to seek more. I am constantly reminded of all the lives Joshua has touched: the NICU staff still talks about him, other hospital staff through the parent advisory council, Easter Seals, my "real job" when I work with trached and g-tube fed kids, all the people involved in the CHARGE runs, the CHARGE Syndrome Foundation, our friends, family, our immediate family, and so many others. Still, I sometimes feel Josh's memory is slipping away. Jillian is getting bigger and the comparisons of Josh are escaping...there isn't a baby around doing the things that Josh did. Looking at Joey, I can only wonder what Joshua would be doing now.

Still with each teary moment, sleepless night, unending desire to see, dream, smell, suction, hug, feed, bathe, do anything with Joshua again I find great comfort in knowing Josh is with the Lord. At our church when a child is baptized our previous pastor would hold up the baby after being baptized in the holy water and say "Behold the face of God." Josh was baptized in the NICU in a much more intimate spot with only his Godparents, parents, and Father Tony present. Josh did not have the opportunity to be held up in front of a big congregation with those words rejoicing out loud. I remember Phil and I loving that phrase, and each of us crying our own renewing tears when Joey was baptized by Father Tri in our church with Josh a few mile away resting in the NICU. I am comforted by the fact that Josh moved into heaven during the Lenten season. It is a reminder to me while I am waiting to be called home, that Josh has seen the face of God, he is one with his maker, and there will be a day when I will be reunited with Joshua and see the face of God.

Big Kids

2011-03-01T11:56:00.000-08:00

Jillian
Jillian continues to amaze us. A quick review: she went right to walking, and didn't learn how to crawl until after she learned how to walk, and did so at 9 months, she has been a superstar with her eating accepting most all foods we offer her. She is picky at times, but will try anything and for the most part has a pretty good appetite. She transitioned away from the bottle what seemed like overnight. She loves talking to her brother, giving him hugs and kisses, and pretty much trying to do whatever he is doing.

So while Joey is pretty much potty trained, we are still going in to help him out from time to time and Jillian's interest in the potty grows as she sees her big bro sitting there and getting praises for his accomplishments. So, I had noticed that Jillian has been grabbing her diaper in the evenings and early mornings when she first wakes up. At first I thought the diapers were being put on too tightly, but there were no marks and if I put them on looser same result. Each time I would check she would have gone even if it is within a half hour of putting a new diaper on. So I started to think maybe she is putting things together already. I brought her to the potty and sat her on Joey's little potty. Wow, did she give me a big grin and out came some peeps! She held my hands ever so daintily and hopped off the potty and put the lid down. Okay, so it was a fluke, right? Well, she has repeated this action several times over the past couple of weeks, not only on the little potty, but also using the potty seat in the upstairs bathroom before her bath. She has such a proud look on her face, she knows she is a big girl. One day after her nap Daddy was holding her and I asked her if she had to go potty...she jumped out of his lap, grabbed my hand and walked me to the potty to go. I was and still am in shock! I am not doing this regularly or expecting her to be completely potty trained this early, but she sure is amazing me these days! She is also growing up too quickly though too! Jillian has been a trooper and has broken 4 top teeth through while being fairly well tempered. For the sass that she usually has, she sure has taken these teeth really well.

Joey
Some exciting news for the big boy is that he is pretty well potty trained. Sure there is an accident from time to time, but has done a great job. As a reward for his big boy behavior we decided to upgrade his room to big boy status. Joey is totally into Disney's Cars and with the new movie out in July we figured he will probably stay into it for a while. I had been looking everywhere to find borders or something to change his room. He had the Cars themed bedsheets and spread from when he got his toddler bed, but that didn't match the Noah's Arc baby theme decor very well. So he is growing up, which means growing out of his baby room, even if it puts another dagger in to know that the theme of Josh's room is now gone too. The only thing to remain is the blue paint from Josh's room which is the bottom color of Jillian's room (confused yet?). At any rate, Joey loves his new room!

And don't forget...
Java
Java was due for a couple of shots and a quick check up so I had that on my list of phone calls to make. Well, I put it off through the weekend and Sunday night we noticed her right ear a little inflated. Yup...remember this past fall the pictures we posted with her cone of shame because she had a hematoma on her left ear? Well, she wants some more attention, so we are looking at another hematoma surgery next Thursday, this time on the right (side) ear. Hopefully once this is done she will not have anymore ear issues! Additionally, when I took her in today I mentioned to the vet before he could spit it out that she needs to lose some weight. She weighed in at a whopping 79.5 pounds! I asked to see what her weight was last year at this time, and he gave me a few stats: in the fall with her left ear hematoma she was at 77 pounds, so not terribly far off, but last year at this time she was 66 pounds! He gave her the excuse of a long winter which adds some extra weight, but I know I have two toddlers at home that love to keep her belly full! We'll have to work on that one, and hopefully with the warmer weather in sight (please!) she will be out a bit more and exercising a bit more.

Joshua's Journeys #52 Lead Me

2011-02-24T12:04:00.000-08:00

We are entering the dreaded "anniversary" last days of Josh's life on earth. I am not good with dates at all, but I can tell you almost every surgery date and hospitalization date of Josh's. I can't stand March, and could care less about my birthday anymore. Its not even the typical "I'm getting another year older" dread, I wish it were that simple. I wish I could say that for my 30th birthday I got a tattoo because I am that crazy of a gal, but instead I got it to remember my first born son who has impacted my life in ways I never thought imaginable. I see St. Patrick's Day things in the store or in magazines and it literally makes my stomach turn. All I know and associate with St. Patrick's day is that is the day we held a funeral for our son. I used to appreciate St. Joseph's day, donning red to show my Italian colors, but now all I can think of is the conversation I had with my grandfather (another Joseph) the day after burying Josh. I remember him explaining to me on the phone in one of the longest phone conversations I ever had with him how he felt in World War II; how certain things will never leave you, that some people will never understand nor care to try to understand, and that I have been changed forever come what may.

I know that I am still learning, still grieving, and still praying. I have two other children on earth that I cherish and love. I don't take one milestone for granted. As much as I dread this "season" I also take comfort in knowing our God is good. My faith and trust in the Lord has grown and I will patiently wait for Him to lead me.

Lead Me by Sanctus Real
I look around and see my wonderful life,
almost perfect from the outside
In picture frames I see my beautiful wife
Always smiling
But on the inside, I can hear her saying...

"Lead me with strong hands
Stand up when I can't
Don't leave me hungry for love
Chasing dreams, but what about us?
Show me your willing to fight
That I'm still the love of our life
I know we call this our home
But I still feel alone."

I see their faces, look in their innocent eyes
They're just children from the outside
I'm working hard, I tell myself they'll be fine
They're independent, but on the inside
I can hear them saying...

"Lead me with strong hands
Stand up when I can't
Don't leave me hungry for love
Chasing dreams, but what about us?
Show me you're willing to fight
That I'm still the love of your life
I know we call this our home
But I still feel alone."

So Father, give me the strength
To be everything I'm called to be
Oh, Father show me the way
To lead them
Won't you lead me?

To lead them, with strong hands
To stand up when they can't
Don't want to leave them hungry for love,
Chasing things that I could give up.
I'll show them I'm willing to fight
And give them the best of my life
So we can call this our home
Lead me, 'cause I can't do this alone
Father, lead me, 'cause I can't do this alone.

Aspen Glow of Elmhurst

2011-02-20T05:34:00.000-08:00

Aspen, full name Aspen Glow of Elmhurst, was a part of our family for 15 years. Yesterday she was laid to rest on her bed in the warm, shining sun, surrounded by love. A great family dog and companion, Aspen will be missed dearly. She loved playing frisbee, ringing the doorbell, swimming, chasing balls, getting the daily paper, and so much more. She has been through a lot with our family good and bad. She was there to see Christy and myself get married, greet all of our children, and help us grieve of the passing of Josh. She had many furry friends of her own and has seen many come and go through the years. We got Aspen before I went off to college, once Phil and I got our first townhouse we would watch Aspen while my mom was out of town. She would race up and down the stairs, play hide and go seek in our two bedroom townhouse, and go for walks to get ice cream. She gave the approval of Java and was a fixture in our current house, being known well by our neighbors. She was known at her house for looking out the front window at all passerbys, and greeting us all as we walked in the house. She was blessed at our church along with Java at the pet blessing, and we know she is in a good place, playing fetch with Josh, licking his face, and sharing some popcorn.

Joshua's Journeys #51 The greatest of these is love

2011-02-14T11:25:00.001-08:00

It has not been the first time, nor will it be the last, but my hearts skips a beat each time Joey says "Josh is coming soon to play with me," "My brother is coming," "Josh is with Jesus," "When will my brother be here?" and a whole lot more of the like. Josh is a part of our family on a daily basis and is a part of our conversations. Joey many times will bring up Josh on his own and either ask questions or tell us something about his brother. It tugs at my heart strings to hear him talk about him in such a loving, fun, and playful manner, but also breaks my heart to know that it may be a long time before we see Joshua again. How do you tell a 2 1/2 year old what that means? He knows when we go to Assumption that is Josh's resting place and that he is in heaven with Jesus. How do you explain that he is a twin, that the feeling of something missing is the physicality of his brother, you know the one he spent squashed inside my tummy with and the first 8 1/2 months of his life? How do you tell him that we are going to Disney this year not because its Mickey's house, but because the CHARGE Syndrome Conference is there and we are a part of that family. We are entering the calendar time of when last year Joey had some behavioral issues such as crying in the middle of the night, pulling at his ear like Josh used to, crossing his legs in the same manner as Josh, and just acting out of sorts. It is really hard to explain, other than I truly believe that he knows his brother and had bonded with him in the womb and out, and as a twin knows a part of him is missing.

I want Jillian to know that she also has another brother, while she may have never met him on earth, they passed each other in heaven. It was within weeks of Joshua's passing that she was conceived. A lot of what we do as a family, who we are as a family, and what we want to achieve as a family is because of their brother Joshua Roy.

We love you Joshua.

1 Corinthians 13:13 And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.

Blizzard 2011!

2011-02-02T08:38:00.000-08:00

So should we blame Phil for bringing the Russian snow and cold back with him? Thank goodness he got home when he did, or else I would not be a happy camper this week at all! And thank goodness he brought me a Russian hat so I could play in the snow and be super warm! The kids love their nesting dolls he got them. Phil will update you with his Russian trip soon, but we got a little sidetracked with... The Blizzard of 2011!

The lights flickered a bit last night, but we never lost power. The wind was crazy but the kids slept through it well, and we woke up to a winter wonderland! It was comical to see the huge snow drift out our sliding glass door this morning, and wondered how we'd get Java outside. Joey and Jillian couldn't believe their eyes to what they woke up to. And of course our wonderful neighbors helped us shovel out and play with the kids. Jillian didn't last terribly long, and after Joey warmed up to the idea of the sled with Nicholas he was having a blast!

Where's Daddy?

2011-01-29T13:51:00.000-08:00

This past week Phil had to go on a business trip to Russia. While he has been gone on business trips this long before, for some reason knowing he is so far away makes it seem like it is even longer. We were only able to talk briefly, sometimes at 3am, so Joey and Jillian had not been able to really talk to Daddy much and the one time we tried to Skype it was a bit disasterous. To top it off, Phil left Sunday evening, with a layover in Germany for 8 hours, thank goodness otherwise he would've been landing in Russia around the time of the deadly bombing on Monday! Thank goodness he flew into Nizhny and was safe. Here is my attempt to track Daddy and explain to them on the globe, computer, and with the toy airplane where Daddy is!

Daddy is now home and loving up Jill while Joey continues to nap (he has not been sleeping a whole lot since Daddy has been gone). Thank you to all of our friends and family that checked up on me and the kids on Monday and throughout the week! I know Phil will post soon more about his journey!

Joshua's Journeys #50 Scribble Monsters

2011-01-29T13:43:00.000-08:00

Today we got the opportunity to go and see the Scribble Monsters! When I told Joey what we were doing I told him we were going to see a play. He asked "With other kids?" I told him yes, and that it was called the Scribble Monsters. The whole drive he asked many questions "Are the monsters going to eat me? Will they bite me? Will they scare me? We'll sing? And dance?" Joey has been all about monsters lately...scaring him, Java being a monster, etc. So this was a good way to show him that the word monster is not so scary! In addition, all proceeds were going to the CHARGE Foundation! I had learned of this from the CHARGE Listserv and spoke with Tracy the lady who put this all together. She has a young daughter with CHARGE, a little younger than Joey, and had mentioned that she had seen our blog and knew of me. So we went to the production and as I was strolling the kids into the school the next car was a lady pulling her daughter out and said "Sandy, right?" It was another CHARGE mom! I don't know why I hadn't thought of it before going, but I saw 3 other CHARGE families that I knew, and met Tracy and her family whom I had just "met" online. It is so hard to believe that a syndrome affecting 1 in 10,000 worldwide can bring so many people together. It was a great production and the kids had a lot of fun, and I had a nice time catching up with those I knew and meeting Tracy and her beautiful daughter and family. It builds the excitement even more for our Orlando trip to the CHARGE Conference in July!

Joshua's Journeys #49- Kennedy's Birthday

2011-01-28T12:38:00.000-08:00

I just read a very well written account from one of the greatest CHARGE moms I know recalling the birth of her daughter, Kennedy. I'm sure many stories of the births of our CHARGE kids are similar, but she hit the nail on the head for many of those first emotions. Both Josh and Joey were taken away from us at birth. We did hear Joey cry and Dad was able to touch him briefly. All I saw from the table I was strapped down on was Josh surrounded by doctors and nurses and then a quick glance of him as he was whisked quickly away. Lisa says the words "cautiously optimistic" which is where I basically lost it in her post... as early as 19 weeks when I had my cerclage and was put on bed rest I was told those words and hated hearing them, however true they may have been. Anyways, I really wanted to share this beautiful account that Lisa shared on her blog. Yesterday was Kennedy's 13th birthday! She is one of the most amazing, happy, and energetic girls I know (pardon me, young lady!). Thank you again Lisa for sharing your story and allowing me to cry, laugh, and recall the day Josh and Joey were ushered into this world as well. Happy 13th Birthday Kennedy!

I miss you Joshua...

Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18

Babies with babies

2011-01-24T14:34:00.000-08:00

Jillian got a crib for her baby dolls from her Godmother, Auntie Trisha for her birthday. Unfortunately it wasn't here in time for her birthday, but I think it was better this way as Jillian was able to show off her mothering skills. She instinctively knew just what to do...she held the baby, patted her, put her in her crib and rocked her. She even gives her babies bottles. Never mind the times she picks them up by the leg, smacks their head against the crib, puts them tummy down with the pillow on their head...lets just say she still has some things to work on! But she loves her new crib. After a visit by her cousins house to watch the Bears lose (boo-hoo!) she came home and immediately put her baby to bed before heading upstairs herself.

And here are a few pics of Java loving the early Valentine's for Joey and Jillian (it was only $1 so who cares, she hasn't destroyed them yet!)

Masionis Visit!

2011-01-16T12:46:00.000-08:00

Saturday we were so very lucky to have Crystal, Dan, Alex, Bailey, and Eva over for the afternoon. Josh and Eva are the two that brought our families together. Since CHARGE Syndrome is such a rare disorder (affecting 1 in 10,000 worldwide) it was very difficult to find another person with CHARGE Syndrome in the area. I joined a Listserv shortly after Josh's diagnosis and met a lot of people around the world with CHARGE or with a child with CHARGE. Still, I hadn't met a single one in person until the day of Josh's funeral. Crystal, Eva's mom, has a heart of gold and from reading my post on the Listserv about losing Joshua, she drove a good distance with Eva when she found out about Josh. It was at Josh's funeral that I first met another child, and a couple years older than Josh, that had CHARGE. It warms my heart to this day and words cannot describe how thankful I am for Crystal to have come out to Josh's funeral and to bring Eva so I could hug her, talk to her, and see what Josh would be like in a few years. Crystal and I have remained close through each others blogs, fundraisers (she does the Bowling for CHARGE fundraiser and includes Josh in it each year, and has come out for the Charge for CHARGE 5K), birthday parties, and e-mails. At the CHARGE conference in 2009 (just 4 months after Joshua passed) Crystal invited me to a mom's dinner with 6 other CHARGE moms who I have also formed great relationships with. However, this was the first time we were able to bring just our two families together to play and talk. It was unfortunate that they couldn't make it to Jillian's birthday party, but worked out much better this way because we were able to spend the whole time with all of them! Jillian loved the Puppy that they got her for her birthday, and I am especially thankful that Crystal got Jillian's name programmed in for us so I don't have to worry about figuring that out! Jillian loved playing with Alex--they share the same birthday, so they hit it off real well! Joey had a blast with Bailey--he wanted to do everything Bailey did and laughed the whole time! And it was so wonderful to play with Eva and to see in person how far she has come. Like I mentioned I visit her blog daily (at least) and Crystal does such a remarkable job posting videos of her progress and all that their whole family does that I feel like I am up to date on all she does, but to be able to play with her and see her in action brings it all to a whole new level. She is an amazing and beautiful girl, and I thank Josh for sending her and her family into our lives.

Crystal also made me a pretty bracelet with all of my kids names on it. I love it! Thank you so much! And yes, we will be getting together much more often and hopefully again soon! They have had a rough year, but we are hoping for a healthy and fun 2011!

Bake, decorate, eat!

2011-01-16T12:34:00.001-08:00

Joey and Jillian have been having a fun time baking last weekend and Friday night. Last weekend Joey and Jillian took out their new Playdoh Cake Making Station that they got for Christmas and had a great time making and decorating cakes. Saturday morning Joey helped Daddy make some super yummy waffles. Joey love to help out in the kitchen, especially when it comes to pouring and stirring things! He often helps Mommy make desserts and will help wash and spin our salads at dinnertime. Last Saturday Joey and Jillian made their own real cakes with the Easy Bake Oven Jillian got for Christmas! Joey was really interested in the tool that pushes the cake into and pulls the cake out of the oven. Both helped make a small, yet yummy yellow cake with chocolate frosting! They both loved it! And finally, Friday night Nonna and Grandpa came home from their trip to Florida so we made them dinner after watching the kids during the work day, and then celebrated by decorating our own cupcakes! Grandpa loves his chocolate and encouraged Joey to add more chocolate sprinkles, while Nonna kept Jillian from becoming a sprinkled mess!

Joshua's Journeys #48 Charge for CHARGE 5K

2011-01-08T05:20:00.001-08:00

I am pleased to announce the date for the 3rd Annual Joshua Kurby Charge for CHARGE 5K. We will be having the 5K this year on Saturday, August 20 at 8:00 a.m. The place remains the same: 391 Illini Drive in Armstrong Park, Carol Stream, IL. We are going to be included in the race calendar February issue of Competitor's Magazine, so we'll see if that helps our field grow even more!

Please take the time to mark this date on your calendar so you can run, walk, or volunteer. If you would like to volunteer please let me know! More details, registration forms, etc. to follow and I will update more info on our blog as well as our Charge It For CHARGE page, so please check in from time to time. Hope your new year is off to a great start, and hope to see you on August 20 (if not sooner)!

Jillian's 1 year check

2011-01-07T12:35:00.001-08:00

This morning I took Jillian in for her 1 year check up. Jillian had the hardest time with the elevator...I think she might have a fear of elevators. There was an older lady in the elevator looking at Jillian and talking to her and another baby (9 1/2 months). Jillian was shaking her arms and legs and looked terrified. When the lady got off the elevator the other baby's mom asked me if she knew where she was going because she looked so scared. I thought maybe she does know, but thought she was still too young to be scared of the doctor's office. As soon as we got in she was perfectly fine. She had smiles for everyone, and laid perfectly still as her doctor checked her out. She said giggled and babbled a bit and her doctor said that she was the "best patient he's had all year, and one of the best 1 year olds he's ever had." He said they are usually hard to keep still, but she was so interested in all he was doing and held my hand while he checked her out. She then clapped, babbled, and was jumping on the table, but was very easy to keep calm and controlled. The nurses commented that she had great targets for her shots (yes she has plump thighs!) and Jillian let them know she was not happy with the shots, but calmed down quickly. The nurses were on there way out the door when they asked if I had any questions. I asked if we could go... they said yes unless I had a question. I was just not used to the whole get your shots and leave concept. With Josh and even Joey I would have to wait 15 minutes after their shots to have their hearts rechecked. Joey was given the okay at his last appointment with his cardiologist, whom we never have to see again because his murmur is gone, and Jillian has not had any issues at all. As her doctor said she is a beautiful and perfectly healthy! So here are her stats...

Weight: 21 pounds, 15 ounces (66%ile)
Height: 29 inches (48%ile)
Head circumference: 17 7/8 inches (62%ile)

Jillian's Birthday Party

2011-01-02T14:42:00.000-08:00

Well, Jillian's birthday week came to an end, as did 2010. We celebrated her birthday with family and friends on New Year's day...what better way to start the year than being surrounded by the people you like best! We did miss a few people at the party, but Jillian still had a great time, and has had quite the birthday week of activities and celebrations. Happy First Birthday Jill!

Also, here are Jillian's 1 year pictures. We don't pick up the prints until the 11th, but here are some of her pictures.

Happy First Birthday Jillian!

2010-12-30T18:22:00.000-08:00

It is so hard to believe that Jillian turned 1 year old today! We had a fun filled day of celebrating. We started off going out for breakfast with Grandma, Auntie Christy, Uncle Chris, Andrew, and Emma. Jill loved her Mickey Mouse pancakes and got nice and messy with the chocolate chips. She enjoyed opening some gifts before heading off to the Teenie Weenie New Year's Eve Ball. It was our park district's "countdown to noon" party for kids. They had a moonjump, crafts, dj, slides, merry go rounds, see-saws, popcorn, ice cream, and balloon drop at noon. There was also time to stomp on some bubble wrap too! Jillian made it until just before noon when she dozed for about a half hour and then woke up just before the party ended and was back in full swing. She came home to a yummy lunch and played some more while Joey napped, and then Nonna and Grandpa came over for dinner, birthday cake and more fun! Happy first birthday baby girl!