Tackling the Pool with multiple Kids {a post on summer time}

Today the Babywise Friendly Bloggers are all blogging about various topics on summer! You can head on over to our pinterest page to see everyone's posts!

Last Summer I had a 5 year old, a 3 year old, an almost 2 year old- and a newborn. Needless to say, going to the pool was not an option for us. Besides giving my everything to nursing a brand new baby at the time, I was scared that someone would die if I took them to a pool by myself. I was overwhelmed and terrified at the sheer thought. So guess what? Besides splashing in a tiny blow up pool in our back yard, my older girls did not get to swim. I really had wished differently, but at the time, this was all I could wrap my mind around when it came to going to the pool. So I did the best I could (tiny blow up pool) and tried to forget the rest. We did not even do swim lessons!

I decided this year was going to be different. For safety purposes, I was not going to skip out on swimming lessons for the oldest 3 girls. I was also determined to let them swim in a real pool. I have so many wonderful summertime childhood memories that involve swimming, and I want for my girls to be able to say the same thing one day.


So as the summer approached, I kept thinking about how I could safely take my 4 children 6 years and under to the pool.

I live in a small town, and there are not a lot of pools available to frequent. We have a large aquatic center- that is big, and extremely crowded. Also- expensive for a family our size to go on a regular basis. The aquatic center is really the city's only option for a public pool- other than a pool in an area of town I am not really comfortable taking my children too.

I had a few friends who were members of our city's Country Club tell me about how amazing the pool was there. They told me that it had a 1 ft deep kids pool and two slides. One slide is for tiny toddler types, and the other one is bigger, and winds around and drops into a small area of 3 ft of water. Above this kid friendly area is a larger, lounge pool. This pool is 5 ft deep at its deepest area.

I felt like this was the perfect solution. So we jumped in.

I chose a pool that was not crowded. Too many people in one pool can be dangerous, and honestly- isn't any fun for anyone. So you can see why this was important to me. I wanted for us to be able to swim freely and be able to enjoy age appropriate/safe pool play, and this really is just that.

I chose a pool that is child friendly, and appealing. There are slides, and even a tiny waterfall falling over a large rock that they can splash under. There is a giant octopus and two fishes that spout out water (think splash park) that the kids can play in. It's a beach front entry, so the kids can ease their way into the water or smaller kids and babies can sit right down in and play with toys or under the sealife spouts and splash in. It really looks like a giant playground- just with water!

I also chose a pool that I would enjoy myself. I wanted to be just as excited as the kids to pack up and go! I love playing in the kids pool, and helping them with their skills in the larger pool. It's just as fun for me as it is for them!

I do have several rules that allow me to be safe and still be at the pool with all 4 babes.

1. Life jacket at all times for my 3 oldest if I am not physically in the water with them- even in the kids pool. (Yes, I will even sit out of the pool, with Wynn in the stroller next to me while the 3 big sisters stay in the kiddo pool and I eat lunch with friends) if I am out of the pool- life jackets are on (and guys- these things are incredibly effective!) and they can only stay in the kids pool. If Wynn is not in my arms she is in her flaotie and right next to me.

2. If we go the larger and deeper pool, they must wear their life jackets- unless I am working with one of the older two on swimming. In this case- only one of them can be without their life jacket- and I have to be totally focused on every move they make. So, I will have Wynn in her floatie that keeps her upright- and I keep my finger on it- while either Anslee or Kensington is practicing swimming back and forth to me. Then- they will switch and the other will be free to play near us in their life jacket.

3. We all stay together (for the most part) the exception being if I have a friend there who is willing to keep an eye on one of mine while I take the others with me to the lounge pool. Life jacket on- always.

My older 2 (Laynee has too,
But she is still so little that she stays in her life jacket the entire time we are at the pool) girls have been taking lessons twice a week all summer long- and they have done great. Since I have been taking them to this pool and allowing time for practice with me, I can really see the strides they have made. This is why if I am working with one at a time I will let them swim for a little while to me without their life jacket.

Being able to be at the pool was something I really wanted to make happen this year, and I feared it would just not be possible. I am so thankful we found the perfect pool, made some reasonable rules, and have worked on our skills enough to make this possible!

Balancing Academic with Relaxation in Summer {guest post}

I have recently teamed up with a group of amazing women in a Babywise Friendly Blog Network. We post guest post on each other's blogs from time to time.




Today I have the honor to introduce to you all Valerie Plowman. She is a mother to 4 children and has been blogging and helping mothers map out the ins and outs of parenting for several years. Her blog has been a resource to me for over 6 years now, and to so many more. You can find her at www.babywisemom.com


by Valerie Plowman

A very common, and very legitimate, concern many parents have during summer months when school is out is how to avoid a summer setback. A summer setback is when the child returns to school in the fall and finds he/she is not at the same level he was when school let out for the summer. When you avoid a summer setback, you avoid a loss of skills.

Despite this concern over summer setback, we are conflicted as parents. We have this opposite pull that makes us want to have a relaxed summer. We want to give our children a break and give them the chance to worry about nothing but being kids for the summer. We want a more relaxed schedule and a shorter to-do list. I know that as my children have gotten older, I have wanted summers to be less and less structured. However, that doesn't mean I want my children falling behind themselves over the summer.

So how do you balance?

FITTING in the ACADEMICS
You can do some academics each day without turning each and every day into just another school day. One thing you can do is simple math facts and/or math worksheets. Math fact pages can be found all over the internet. Doing a short sheet of addition problems, multiplication problems, or division problems can be done in 10 minutes or less. It can a be a post-breakfast or post-lunch activity. Doing this daily (or as close to daily as possible) can significantly help your child to be on top of math when school resumes in the fall. You can also check out this post for more ideas to help avoid summer setback in math.

If you ask any teacher how to help your child during the summer, she will encourage you to read, read, read. Reading is the simple answer, and there are simple ways to fit reading into your schedule each day.

Reading programs are a fun way to stay motivated to keep reading up during the summer. Check with your local library to see if they have a summer reading program. If you can't find one, you can always plan your own goals and reward system for reading milestones through the summer.

One of my favorite things to do in the summer for reading is called Sustained Silent Reading (SSR). This is when you all sit in the room together and read whatever you like for 30 solid minutes (including the parent). You don't talk; you just read. We do this in the afternoon right at the time my toddler goes down for a nap. I like the afternoon because it is the middle of the day. It is a time the kids can all take a break from their play and relax a bit. It is also a break from the heat of the day and a chance to cool down. All of my children really enjoy SSR.

Another way to help with reading is to read to your child each day. If you read stories before bedtime, keep it up during the summer (if you don't, I encourage you to start). Read aloud to all of your children, no matter the ages. During summer, bedtime can really creep up on you. Do what you have to to ensure there is enough time to keep bedtime stories as part of your routine.

Plan regular visits to the library through the summer. How often you can go will depend on your proximity and circumstances. We go once each week. I let each child choose 3-5 books for the week (I don't want too many books to keep track of). The children enjoy having a variety of books to read. Having a new book keeps them interested.

Find unique ways to get reading stories or reading practice in. I have my six year old read me a book each day while I do her hair. She is able to finish a book in about the time it takes me to do her hair. This is a consistent time of day that we can remember to fit this reading practice in. The other night, our ten year old read from Oliver Twist to my husband while he did landscaping. You can also do reading in the car, have your child read to you as you make dinner...be creative.

Summer often involves time spent in the car while traveling near and far. Something we love to do is listen to books on CD as we drive. It is a great way to get extra reading in while still being able to go do your fun things.

FITTING in RELAXING
While you want to do what you can to prevent the summer setback, you still want summer to be relaxing. You can allow down time. You can spend a relatively short time on the learning stuff each day and leave plenty of time for play and rest and relaxation.

It is important to remember that for children, play is work. Play is more to children than what it is to us. For adults, play is fun and relaxing. For children, play has learning attached to it. My daughter's Kindergarten teacher sent home a paper of things to do this summer. Along with reading and simple math problems, she stressed the importance of play for children. To read more on the benefits of free play, see this post. Do not feel bad about giving your children time to be creative and have fun playing.

Another great thing to do during the summer is fun learning ideas. This can be a good time to try out some of those fun pins decorating your Pinterest account. There is so much learning that can happen through fun activities.

Television, movies, computer time, and video games can be okay at times, but be careful to not let that time overrun your child's time for free play. Limit the time allowed with electronics each day or each week. Make sure you are not letting electronics suck up your play time.

MAKING SURE IT HAPPENS
What you don't want is to panic two weeks before school starts with either 1)Ack! My kids haven't done any sort of learning for 2 1/2 months! or 2)Ack! We haven't done anything fun this summer!

Sit down and make a list of things you would like to see happen this summer. What kinds of learning things do you want to happen? Write out how you can work those into each day and make some goals you can keep.

As you are making your list, write down some fun things you would like to see happen daily and throughout the summer. Essentially, make a bucket list (but a reasonable one). A bucket list doesn't have to be a list of highly amazing things. You might want to go for a few bike rides. Go swimming a few times. Try some new parks. Go to that new splash pad. Write out your ideas and pencil them into your calendar for the summer.

CONCLUSION
With a little bit of forethought and effort, you can make sure you have time for play and time for learning throughout the summer. You might also enjoy these posts I have written on the topic:
Avoiding Summer Setback in All Areas, Summer Planning and Preparation, Summer Fun At Home, Summer Structure, and Occupying Children During Summer.

Valerie is a mother of four, ages 2-10, and blogs at www.babywisemom.com

What I learned about being a "School Mom"

So very quickly our first year as a family with a child in school full time came and went. I have been so overcome with emotion and feelings from the beginning to the very end of this school year. A real learning journey it has become for our family, really, for me.

Anslee meeting her Teacher, Mrs. Hall and teacher aide Mrs. Jones

Someone told me that your "parent age" is just as is the age of your child. So I just graduated my kindergarten year of parenting, as Anslee graduated her first year. A kindergartener is she is no more, and we are both entering 1st grade now.

First Day of School, August 25, 2015

I wanted to document some of the experiences/thoughts/feelings I have had over the past 9 months. I did not know what to expect, as you could understand, as this was my first school mom rodeo. I learned so much. Anslee learned so much. Overall we had a very bright experience, but here are some of things that learned and that I was surprised by

Every Monday Anslee's school began with an assembly. They would give awards. This was the First Monday award she received on the 2nd week of school.

Fridays were meant for cheerleading uniforms to be worn to school during football season

The classroom is the teachers terf. Not yours.
And this is ok. This is wonderful. Do we not want our children to learn that in life they will be under the authority of many other that of yourself and your spouse. I feel like it is an important life skill to allow for them to learn to follow someone else's rules. They are quite capable of reaching the expectation level of the teacher, principal, lunch lady - and they need to know that they can do that all while coming home and following the rules you have set for them there. This does NOT mean, though, that you can't team up with your child's teacher to have common ground of rules and that you as a parent have a full understanding of what is expected from your child while they are under someone else's watch. I enjoyed open dialogue with Anslee's teacher this year. She was always available to answer my questions and keep me clued in as I needed to be. I encouraged Anslee to keep her teacher's rules each and every day, and I could count on her to reinforce our rules at home, too. Mrs. Hall told me at the beginning of the year that if Anslee is doing great at home with behavior, school work, attitude/motivation, etc. to let her know so that at school she could praise her for that. I was so glad that she wanted to be on my team in that way

Kindergarten Star Students for the 1st Six weeks of School (sorry its fuzzy, it was the best I could do)

Kensington came along for Anslee's class trip to the Brown County Stock Show

I also learned that if she did things different than I did, that was ok. I found that it was important that I respect her and her choices - even if they were different than my own - because at the end of the day, she had my child's  (and every child) best interest at heart.I learned that maybe MY way IS NOT always the BEST way. Maybe, just every now and again (hehe) someone else's way will work just fine. You have to in a way trust the system. Its not a perfect system, but its a system that is always being evaluated and strengthened as time goes on. So we trust it. We trust that we will see growth and gain from believing in the school and its precious, hard working, invaluable teachers. You have to find a comfortable balance between being a true champion for your child (by helping pave the way for great opportunities) without becoming the mom who pushes their child's way to the top for them.

Anslee's class made gingerbread houses for a winter activity. Kensington was thrilled when they let join in!

I got to be the "reindeer" to toss rings onto at the Christmas party!

Their Kindergarten is NOT your kindergarten.

There is nothing more true than this! Kindergarten now is a place where real learning and progress is made. You know what I learned in kindergarten? I learn how the letters of the alphabet. I learned how to tie my shoes. I learned how to play at centers with my friends. We had stories read to us. Now, when they leave kindergarten and enter the first grade they: read (and quite well), know what a noun, an adjective, and verb are and how to identify them in a sentence, they add and subtract double digit numbers. They are evaluated and tested regularly throughout the year. They do all this while they also learn the social side of being at school - playing appropriately with their friends, respecting their neighbor, following a schedule. Here is the thing. They CAN do it. They CAN handle it. They actually really like going to school at this age, so its amazing  to see how when they are motivated what they can really accomplish. So was my generation totally underestimated? Huh. I don't know.

homework time!

Sisters don't let sisters do homework alone!

Anslee's Valentine Mailbox. She was so proud of her hard work!

Be Available. Be involved.
When you are able, get yourself involved in your child's classroom. Be the teacher's extra set of hands on field trips and special party days and celebrations. They sure do appreciate parent involvement, and your child will light up at the sight of you at school. Volunteer some time when you can. This year, I have 3 small children still at home while Anslee is at school but I was still able to make myself available for all the special events and field trips. You don't have to be up there each and every day (trust me, I was not), but I think Anslee's teacher knew she could count on me on the days where extra effort was needed to expose the kids to fun and exciting new things. I served on the PTO (parent/teacher organization) and tried to do my part in helping where I could as well. I look at this as investment in Anslee's education. I feel like if she physically can see me serving at her school she will understand how much I value her learning and growing through her education. I am hopeful that this will eventually turn into HER valuing her education as she grows and begins building her own value system.

Anslee's class after participating in Jump Rope For Heart!

Kindergarten's Got Talent participants! Anslee did a combination of gymnastics skills to music

Easter Egg hunt at the park with all of Kindergarten!

Kinder trip to the Train Museum here in town! They also went bowling this day as well.

Kindergarten Rodeo! They branded a block of wood, learned to lasso, and raced their Hobby Horses!

Mrs. Hall's and Mrs. Jones Kinder grads!

If you are involved, you are more informed. You know more of what is going on. You know how things work, and you can help reinforce classroom rules/values/efforts at home. I was able to help Anslee better with her homework after I talked to the teacher and learned her language and the techniques she used with the kids. I would use the same techniques and word phrases at home when I was supervising her doing her homework. It made things click quicker and stayed more fresh in her mind. Ask how to help your child at home. Also, being up at the school from time to time made for my having a better understanding of what all was going on at the school, even outside of Anslee's classroom. I was able to go to the 3rd grade musical with Anslee, because I knew that was happening! I felt like being involved was just a good thing all around - and I wasn't even up there THAT terribly much. A little involvement goes a LONG way.

Anslee had a great year. She learned and grew and enjoyed every minute of doing so. We are so proud of all the amazing things she and all her classmates accomplished this year. Something that NO ONE told me was that the last day would be harder than the first day was. I got so emotional thinking back on the year and realizing how far she had come. I was sad to leave her teacher, as she became safe place for us. The first day was teary for me, but the last two days were way more weepy on my part! Who would have known? We look forward to a great 1st grade year ahead and we hope that the learning for BOTH of US continues.

obligatory 1st day to graduation day comparison picture

The Bible I will give Anslee the day she graduates High School in 2027. From here on out I will have her teachers through the years write her a note on the inside of it. I hope it will encourage her, and also be a visual reminder of her growth - and how we will always want to continue on growing in the Lord.

We are officially on Summer break and are looking forward to a more relaxed structure and schedule. Lazy days, fun days, and lots memories are ahead for us!

How I Manage Multiple Schedules (and get everyone napping at the same time!)

Juggling schedules can be a tricky thing, and from my experience, its certainly been a learning process. Lots of trial and error, and lots of being flexible. I love having and ebb and flow that works, and here are a few things that have helped me find just that.

 I wake up early. I wake up before all my kids. I did not always do this, but once I had 3 kids and places to be, I found it was necessary and incredibly helpful for a peaceful flow to our day. This may be a bit easier for me than most, because Tyler has to be at work at 6 am. So when he gets up to get ready, I do too. I greet the Lord first and give my day to him. I figure if the day is his before the light shines through, we will be on the right foot before the girls even wake.

 I take all the girls schedules into consideration. For example, Anslee has to be at school at 7:45 am. This is a non-negotiable, 5 days a week, she goes to school and this is the time she arrives. So whatever else is happening in anyone else's day, it MUST work around this. So - since Wynn still has a morning nap, I need to make sure of 2 things: a) that 7:45 am be a part of her "waketime" in the morning. b) that she still has a morning wake up time that is consistent each day. Right now, in the morning Wynn can manage about 2 hours of being awake, so I wake her 7 am. This is after I have woken and dressed the 3 big sisters (I usually let them out of their room at 6:45 am to get dressed and have their hair done, but that have usually been awake for a few minutes prior to this.) Wynn is last to get up. If they all have a regular wake up time for the day, they will have set nap times for the day, and you can plan your errandings, outings, playdates around those times. They all eat breakfast at the same time. Two days a week, my MIDDLE SISTERS go to a pre-school. That starts at 9 am. Wynn is usually stretching it to get them there before needing her nap, but on Mondays and Wednesdays, I have her stretch all the way to 2 hours of being awake so I can get them there on time. Then I come home and put her down immediately. On days that the middle sisters do not have school, She is happy to go down at about 8:45. We are flexible here. We have to be. (and honestly, she needs to learn to be a wake a tad longer than she thinks she can!)

 I make the child who is more flexible (almost always the olders) bend more when they need too. In the next few weeks, I will be transitioning Wynn to 2 naps instead of 3. When this happens - her nap times will most likely be 9 am - 10:45 am, and then again at 1:30 - 3:15/3:30. However, right now, with Wynn's 2 nap schedule all 3 of my girls who are at home and needing naps go down at 12:30. I know that when Wynn needs to stretch the waketime length before her 2nd nap (when we go to JUST 2 naps) my middle girls will be able to stay up until 1:30 so they will bend here so that all 3 will take naps at the same time just like they do now on Wynn's 3 nap schedule.

I ask for help when I need it! Anslee has to be picked up from school at 2:50 pm. Right now, on Wynn's 3 nap schedule, this works just fine. Everyone is awake and we can load up and pick her up with no problem. When we transition her, Wynn will for sure need that last nap to stretch longer than 2:40 pm, so I will most likely find a college student who can I pay weekly to sit at the house with my sleeping kiddos while I do pick up. Sometimes Tyler's work schedule is flexible and he can come and sit at the house for 10-15 minutes while I grab Anslee from school. I also have amazing mom friends who pick their own child up from the same school who have offered to help with pick up as well.

 I protect Nap time. If you know me, you know I am a huge believer in how regular nap times and consistency can benefit everyone in the home, so I don't make plans for things during nap time hours. Don't worry, though, I still get out! I am out of the house a LOT during wake times. Its much easier now that Wynn is stretching out how long she can be awake at a time, and this child is SUPER high sleep needs! We go to regular play dates, MOP's meetings (those I do come a little late to those, most weeks!) and go to the park and pre-school, and on and on and on with all different types of activities!

 I prep in the evening for the next day. This has been huge for me! If I can get lunches (and sippy cups) made and in the fridge and a breakfast casserole put together for the week my morning routine happens runs much more smoothly. This helps me keep on task, and I am more likely to keep the schedule I would like for the rest of the day.

 I don't flip out (like I used too) when things need to be adjusted. I was bad before. I couldn't handle it if things went off course. I have relaxed like 200% and it works out. If we are out 30 minutes later than we are used to, its going to be ok because its likely we will all survive it. So I try to remain the most flexible out of all of us, and that really has helped. I love being intentional about my day, and I think that its healthy to provide this structure for my(self) kids.

I took me 3 kids until I could figure these little tidbits out. Its wonderful to have 4 happy girls, who all get to do fun things AND get the sleep they need. Its also wonderful that we get a full nights rest each night - because we are busy during the day and we need the rest!

A Look back at our 2014

I can't believe it. I blinked and 2014 has passed us all by. I always enjoy the time between Christmas and the New Year, because I really spend a lot of time thinking about what the past year has brought us, what we have learned, where we have grown, and where we still need improvement. I enjoy daydreaming about our hopes for the next calendar year - and hoping that I feel as blessed in 365 days from now as I do today.

This year was another big year for us. We had a lot going on - so much to keep us busy and happy. We started out in January of this past year celebrating a 3rd and 5th birthday for Kensington and Anslee respectively. We also found out that the baby growing in my tummy would be another sister to complete this crazy crew.

We had our house on the market - and our eye (and an offer) on a 4 bedroom 2 living area house about 6 blocks away from where we currently lived. We were planning on gutting the 4 bedroom home and making it not only the right size, but the right style for our growing family.

When March came around, and I knew I was getting to the bitter end of my pregnancy, and we still had not sold our house (had a couple of offers, but nothing that we could financially make work. We wanted too so badly, but it just would not work out in our favor or the potential buyers favor). We knew we needed a new plan.

I asked Tyler to consider enclosing our tiny back porch (a tad bit less than 80 square feet, to be almost exact.) I realized that should we enclose that area - we could fit a crib and a dresser and our tiny home could accommodate the 6 of us comfortably. After looking at pricing and further considering the alternative (moving - which at this point was really not an alternative seeing as how getting a closing date in time to bring baby home was way less than likely), He said lets go for it. So we did! We only needed to add one wall, finish the ceiling, add a fan and some simple electric work and boom. Wynn has a room. We have so enjoyed our little addition to the house. It does have a huge window, but no closet, so our home is still considered a 3 bedroom. In the future, when it is time to sell our home, we will easily stage this as an in home office or a play room. Its the perfect space for either one of those, and makes our home unique!

This is the last picture I took of the room. It looks so much different even now, as she has a changing pad and a curtain and a few things on her walls. It is small, but so is she, so we are functioning at full capacity - happily.

So the spring was busy with construction and destruction as well. Our little Laynee stuck her poor finger in a door that shut ALL THE WAY while her finger was inside the hinges. She walked away from that incident (and a trip to the ER in Abilene) with 8 stitches.

You can see by the look on my face that I was less than thrilled, scared, and really just so upset because its really just about the worst thing to see such a young babe be so hurt. She was trooper, and has since made a full recovery. Thank you, Jesus!

We enjoyed Easter with our family, and talked to these precious girls about what a gift they are to us. We talked to them about how God gave us the gift of his own son, Jesus, who died - but was risen back to life to save us from ourselves. Their hearts were softened, but not turned. In time the depth of this will sink in, and we will lead them to the one who created them. I am thankful for their innocence, and how they ask questions. I am hopeful for their future salvation. Easter becomes such a special time for us as we get to continue in old traditions and create new ones.

Anslee finished her year at Cross Classical Academy as Pre-K student. The last day, they had a track day, where they finished their running (all year, they were required to run 1/4 2 X's per week) Over the course of the year, by running on this schedule, they would complete a marathon. On this track day, as they concluded the year - they ran their last mile. Anslee actually ran 1.5 miles that day and didnt even blink about it. She is a lover of running and would never stop if allowed to keep going.

Kensington finished up her 2nd year at her Wee Kids school. She had a great year! We loved her teacher, Mrs. Rhonda. Kensington learned so much, and really just had a blast! On their last day, they enjoyed a water day - and it was the best way to wrap up a great year at wee kids for her.

Then...about 1 week after school ended.....

Wednesday, May 28th goes down as the most memorable day of 2014 for Tyler and I. We jumped through hoops (or went through 4 blood transfusions) to get our precious Wynn here - with mommy being healthy. It was a scary birth experience, if I am being honest. I would do it all again to have her, but I am grateful to know that I will not go through that, or anything like it, again in my lifetime. My iron levels were dangerously low, so I needed quite a bit of blood to go through with the c-section. It takes several hours for a transfusion to complete, and I had to have 1 full unit (bag) and being well into the 2nd unit before I could even go back for surgery. Then the doctor needed to finish up at his clinic if I needed to sit there getting blood. Then no one could get a recovery nurse. Where was the anesthesiologist? Did someone need an emergency section before me? Probably. All I know is I sat there, in a torturing amount of anxiousness (do you blame me? I knew the damage that was about to be done to my body. ""shudder"") for 7 hours before I finally saw that angel baby. Then I saw her, and heard her. Her cry was too quiet. So quiet it could barely be heard. I felt funny all of sudden. Doctor? Can I have something for this intense and scary pain? Thank you. All of a sudden I felt like I could fly off the operating table. Did I just have a baby? Ok. Off to recovery.

Tried to nurse baby Wynn. She couldnt breathe, and I was trying to make her eat, She really couldnt get any air then. She was making strange sounds with each "breath" she took in. She was stuggling.

They come in and take her. Tell me I can't nurse for 24 hours because she needed to be on an IV and possibly oxygen. Devestation. Lots and lots and lots of tears. Missing my big girls. Missing them so much. Told we have to stay 5 days in the hospital to monitor her blood sugar. Missing my big girls so much that I can't stop crying. Ive never been so torn up in my life. My girls missed Tyler and I. They would come up to the hospital and cry when they left us. The rest of the time in the hospital I struggled to get her to nurse (once I was allowed to again). You can see the expression on my face is the exact same as the one I have in the picture with Laynee got her stitches. I am worried, and it can't be hidden.We powered through the most difficult days of this year, and came home.  With our Wynn. We have 4 daugthers.

Tyler took off 6 weeks. He was off from May 24th until July 7th. It was the sweetest time for our family out of this year. It was too short lived. It was wonderful all be home together. We were learning so much during this time. We were learning who Wynn was, what our new family was like as a whole, and how to manage our days. Really, we are still learning this today. Her early days were the hardest for me. I continued to struggle with nursing. I had a forceful letdown and an oversupply. She choked, gagged, and gasped for air, and swallowed a TON of air. I tried pumping off a little before each feed - and that seemed to help just a bit. She then ended up have a strong preference for my left side and basically wouldn't eat more than 4 or 6 minutes from my right side - after about 398479534 of trying to get her latched. I had mom friends come over and try to help me feed her. I consulted with 2 different lactation consultants. I fed on demand (hello, do you know me? not my style.) I tried nursing her while I laid on my back to let gravity do its thing. The tears came with each feeding. From both of us. She ended up having a pretty extreme nursing aversion - to where when I would turn her into position to nurse she cried so hard it was silent. She turned away from me, and I was helpless and hopeless. Why is nursing such an easy and beautiful experience for everyone else? I mean, everyone I know who was as committed to nursing as I was - was nursing. What was wrong with me? Why did I get a big fat "F" in nursing on my mommy report card when I did all my homework? After countless tears, prayers, and conversations with tyler, I gave in. I gave her bottles. She hated them, too. Ha. It honestly made me feel a little better - and even now at 7 months old, I can still barely get her to take the bottle without a fight. She isn't human, I tell you. She does not have that innate drive to consume food for fuel. I wish I could say that I am 100% confident that was the best decision, but it still pains me terribly. I had to unfollow all my breastfeeding groups on facebook. I had to delete several breastfeeding apps from my phone. I have to admit that today, I cringe with what I call a "happy" jealousy when I see others nursing their tiny ones. I am so glad for them. Wish I could join them. I know that how you feed a baby doesn't make you a good mom, but how I am supposed to feel when I see breastfeeding propaganda all over my small town on billboards. "Rocket Scientist. Breastfeeding makes babies smarter."  I am not kidding. Its on a billboard I have to look at everytime I am going to our Pedi office. Then one on the way to the mall "World Champion.  Breastfeeding makes your baby stronger." I am an advocate for nursing! Do it! Its the best! But please, don't make mothers like me feel like my child is going to fail in the world of academics and basically struggle with doing anything physically because she wasnt nursed for a year. 3 months into Wynns life, and she was fully weaned. Everyday, I look at her and wish I could nurse her. I also look at her everyday and I am thankful just to have her. Wow. I digressed a lot. Moving on.

Tylers family has a HUGE 4th of July celebration every year. I mean, its the party to be at - there are door prizes, games, FOOD, and great company. This was going to be our Wynn's first trip to Tylers parents house (where the party is every year). We missed. The big girls had just gotten over pink eye, and the day before, Wynn was showing signs of it - thankfully we knew what was happening and caught it early - and it turned out to be a super mild case. We hated to miss it though.

July 18th was a great day this year! Our 1st nephew came into this world! Camden Asher Ruempolhamer was born. So fun to have a baby boy in the picture now! He is 4 months old here!

August came around and before I knew it, we were headed to meet Anslee's teacher. Mrs. Hall is hugging her in this picture, and her teacher aide, Mrs. Jones is right behind them. They are both wonderful and know how to help kindergarteners learn the ways of school days. We are thankful for her. Anslee has had an incredible first semester at school. On Mondays they have school assembly where awards are given, and school announcements are made. The first Monday meeting (Beginning of the 2nd week of school) Anslee got a "WOW!" award for being a good listener.

I was excited, because her being away from me so much was a transition that has been much harder on me than I had originally thought it would be. It made me feel like she was surviving and thriving and calmed me a bit.

Then, every six weeks, each teacher chooses a girl and a boy from their class to be the "star student" for that six weeks. Anslee won this award at the end of the very first six weeks! I was thrilled, and I didnt know she was receiving the award - so I was glad I was able to come to the ceremony!

Now- she is in no way perfect. She has had to move her color from green to yellow 3 times this semester. One time for pushing a little boy. What? Yes, poor little boy was standing next to the girl that Anslee wanted to stand next too, so what did she do? She shoved him. Im sorry, I never knew this girl to be physically agressive....but she was! Then, one time she was not productive with her work time, and was dawdling instead of being efficient, even after being warned, and had to move her color for that. (that sounds more like what Anslee would get in trouble for!). Then, the last time was because her entire group was not doing what they were told, so they all had to move their colors. Never the less, she behaved pretty well, so I am proud of her. I would not say that she has learned any new concepts up to this point. She is right on track with learning, but hasn't learned anything yet that she didn't really already know. I had a parent teacher conference and her teacher was very pleased with where she stood in her understanding what she needed too for her age, and she passed all the TPRI markers without any mistakes (don't ask me what TPRI is, I have no idea. Its a state thing, I guess?). I hoping to see her grow a lot this second semester. Can't believe she is half way to first grade!! She has lost 7 teeth, and her 8th tooth will be gone in the next little bit. Everytime she looses another, I am reminded at how fast they grow and change. Its still hard for me to believe her tiny years at home with me are essentially gone. I just keep praying that the influences other than her daddy and I be of sound mind, and wise, and kind. I pray that they find Jesus and know him. I pray that should SHE be an influence on anyone else, that is what they see in her.

Meanwhile, these two. They started wee kids. This makes Kensingtons 2nd year, and Laynee's first! They have fabulous teachers this year, and are having such a great time. They think they are big because they got back packs, too. They look forward to going every monday and wednesday - and act much better for their teachers than they do for their mother.

Also, I learned to french braid. This was my first attempt. I have vastly improved, with practice - but I have not taken a good picture of my better work. Ill do that sometime, but just trust me for now. I mean, this is a non-negotiable skill to have, right? I have 4 daughters.

September started a new chapter in Tyler's career. He has been going to the border for 7 days (2 days travel, 5 days working 12 hour shifts) to be a "show of force" for all border control issues. There is so much I could say about this little phase of our life, but I'll keep things to myself to be respectful to Tyler's employer, and of the job he really does love. It has been difficult, because he is working way more than usual. He is absent from us, obviously, while down at the border...but when he is here, he is on call so much more - because the others in this area who would normally be on call are all doing THIER rotations on the border, so the hours are more (because he is loosing a LOT of his normally scheduled days off and the call is so much more), and he is away more. I am not the type of wife that does well without her husband. I miss 7pm-10pm with him terribly when he is gone! Those precious hours each night are so special to us! Its our time. The kids are all asleep, and we get to watch our shows and talk about everything under the sun! Its important! This will end - this will end. We also have high hopes for the future of Tyler's career, as he has done so well and has much much much to look forward too! I really could not brag enough or be more proud of this guy.

September 23 of this year was a special day for our family. My Sister in Law Jacy gave birth to her and Brian's first baby. A daughter, named Blakely May Russell. She is gorgeous. She is a genius baby. She socially smiled at me, when she was 3 weeks old. She is perfect in every way and we are beside ourselves to claim her as a family member. And Jacy? Rocking as a mom. We knew she would.

Can I speak for a minute about this beauty? My Kensington. Oh she gave us grief when she was born. If you have ever read this blog you know exactly what I am referring too. She was colic from day 1 until day like 124. It felt like 43987498753945345 days, but friends. This girl. Her 3 - 4 (will be 4 in less than a month) year has been amazing. This girl is filled with imagination and expression. You have not lived until you listen to her (watch her) tell you a story. She is polite. QUICK TO OBEY. happy. LAUGHS at everything. Wants to dress up all day everyday. This girls thinks of others before herself. all. the.time. Every morning, she goes to the refrigerator - goes and gets her and her sisters cups, and asks them which one they want to have and she takes what is left and is thrilled to do that for them. She colors pictures for her sisters 5 of 7 days a week, because she says "it will make her happy, mom.". She melts me. She is a pure pleasure to be around. I am slightly obsessed, and very proud that the Lord is guiding her heart well before she has given her life over to him. And. She is gorgeous - and that is nothing but a bonus, and absolute true reflection of her budding character.

Oh my most precious Laynee girl.She turned 2 years old on July 31 of this year, she is perfectly...2. Whew. This girl is a challenge. Her toddler years have been consistently difficult. Especially this year. 2014 has been a battle year with her. She needs a lot of attention and reigning in. She is one tough little cookie who will make you want to scream and laugh in the same breath. She is quiet, and really really really loud. Trust me, it makes perfect sense. She is a walking tornado. If there is something that will make a mess - she will get to it. She destroys things. She must be watched much more closely than her older sisters needed to be. This year, we have noticed some things about Laynee. She loves to preform and sing. She is not shy when it comes to these things, her sisters - way more timid. She also is SUPER independent and NOT at all patient. She believes she has the development of her sisters - and thinks she can buckle herself in her carseat and screams bloody murder when someone tries to offer some help. Same with getting fully dressed. Do not attempt to give her a hand. She will push you back. She LOVES to say her prayers at night and really loves to sing the ABC song. She recently moved into a toddler bed. She will be potty trained in the next....30 days. Hopefully. I feel excited to share 2015 with Laynee. I think she will begin to feel more a part of the "big girl" club with her sisters as she learns to communicate more effectively,  and play with them more imaginatively. I think she will enjoy this next year and I look forward to seeing her come even more so into who she is!

7 months old and the sweetest, most cooperative, gentle, angel baby that has ever lived. I am not kidding. She is precious. Besides hating to eat, she is the perfect infant. She sleeps on cue. She hit 4 months old and was totally predictable - She has cried like 3 times when being put down for a nap, and she falls asleep within 5 minutes of being laid down. She takes 2 naps 2 hours in length and then a 1 hr to 1.5 hour cat nap in the late afternoon. She will get cranky if she is up past 6:30 pm, and sleeps until 7 am without making a peep. She is a dream to be around during the time she is awake because she is so well rested. Just at the end of this year, she has started to get a bit more clingy to me, but I am good with that. She is still swaddled (I know. She sleeps SOOO well I don't want to mess it up. Ugh. I hate transitions) She has her two front bottom teeth, and is eating one "meal" each day. Thankful she is ours. She came to us almost mid-year, and it started out a little rough - but she has ended this year well. We call her the Moses' grand finale.


December was a big month for me. I went to see a doctor in Houston about my thyroid. I am now being totally treated - and treated VERY well. I am taking a lot of vitamins and supplements and an increasing dose of a non-dessicated Thyroid medication (Armour Thyroid). I am getting healthy and already seeing so much improvement in just 4 short weeks of treatment. My hair is getting so much thicker, and my energy is gaining each day. I am sleeping so so so so so well. I was not before, so I am thrilled that this is improving for me!

Tyler and I celebrated 7 years together on December 9th. He is still an answer to all my prayers since way back when and I am very proud to be serving the Lord, our family, and our friends and community alongside him. Many more beautiful years ahead.

Happy New Year, from our family to yours. I hope that this year you know Jesus better, serve him more, and love those around you well. This is our hope for 2015, and we share that with you!

Maybe one day this year, I will get this tiny blog fixed up to include our biggest blessing of 2014 - our sweet Wynn!

Thyroid health and Hotze Health and Wellness Center.

When I think about the last few years of my life; I think of how blessed I have been, how much favor God has shown me and my family, the busy-ness of having 1, and 2, then 3, now 4 daughters. I also think of how tired I have been. I think about poor Tyler and how he has dealt with my moodiness with such grace (and patience. Ok, lets just say he REALLY LOVES me). I think about how I tell my mom all the time that once I turned 30 everything began falling apart with me health wise. We joked about it, but as of recent, the joke turned serious and I realized there were some things I didnt need to continue to ignore.

Totally normal to be exhausted when you have littles running around, right? Of course. Totally normal to be irritable and happy and sad all within the same 7 minutes of time when your body has really and truly been pregnant for 5 years in a row, right? Absolutely. Totally normal to loose your hair, deal with random bouts of adult acne, have dry patches of skin, your fingers and ankles swelling, a metabolism that is basically non-existent, and not sleep at night just because you turn 30, right? Well maybe, but I got fed up with it. I was tired of being tired and not being able to sleep at night. I was frustrated that I would work out 3-5 days a week watch my diet to only GAIN weight instead of loose it. I hated that I could no longer even fit into "fat pants" anymore. It killed me when I try to style my hair for the day only to feel it thinning excessively and falling out - not to mention be incredibly brittle. I thought it was so odd that when I exercised and exerted myself physically - I didnt sweat like I used too. I ended up on depression medicine again because, of course the moodiness got to me - but I also could not look at myself in the mirror. I hated how I look, and worse - I hated how I felt. I was ready to get help and I wasn't going to stop until I found someone who could help me take control over all of these symptoms.

Rewind back to about 3 years ago. It was 9 am, and in the background of my changing diapers, tending to screaming babes, and probably trying to get someone to nap - Good Morning Texas on WFAA Dallas was playing. A segment came on, with a Doctor who had come up with an innovative and progressive way to treat women in their early thirties dealing with thyroid issues. He had two of his patients on with him who gave testimonials of success. They looked and felt great. I remember nothing else of that show that day - but I remembered that segment and I am so glad I did. I was not experiencing any of they symptoms, but it was like I filed those womens stories in the back part of my brain as if I knew I could have their future in my own near future. I remembered the segment - but for the life of me, I could not remember the name of the Doctor, I just knew he was based somewhere out of Houston.

In September of this year, I had it with myself. I was sick of depression medication - and wanted to venture into the part of my closet that involuntarily off limits to me. I put in a call to my family doctor, who graciously saw me at the end of October. She ran some labs, and most everything came back "in the normal range". What she saw was elevated liver enzymes, so she helped me get set up with an ultrasound to look a little deeper into it. Turns out I have "non alcoholic fatty liver". Its quite common, and can easily be reversed - but I am so thankful she helped me learn that about my body. Even though I knew my thyroid was tested and came back normal - there was more digging to do. I know my body and I know that its not functioning the way it should be. So I started doing facebook searches for hypothryoid groups and low and behold. I saw another video clip of that doctor from the GMT segment. I watched his video that discussed thyroid function and hormone imbalance, and got his name. Instantly, feeling full of hope, googled his name and found his institution's website. You can click on that here. I think I read the entire website twice. I called my mom and Tyler both sobbing saying that I found the institute that could help me. The website talked about how 90-95% of the general population will have labs that come back "in normal range"  and that blood is just a comparison to everyone elses bloodwork that has been tested and was not a valuable form of finding a problem with the thyroid. It talked about how the treated the patient, not their lab work. They listened to the symptoms. It talked about how lab work can be in normal range, but if its not where you uniquely need it to be - a problem still exists. A problem that has a real solution, a treatable answer.

The website gave a phone number and welcomed anyone who was interested in their services to call. It was Saturday, but I called anyway. Monday morning, December 1st, at 8:30 am they called back. They lady on the phone said, "You do not have to silently suffer any more." She set me up to have a phone consultation with a nurse that afternoon. The nurse went over all my issues and symptoms, asked me what my goals for health would be and if I could come to the office for a 1 time visit. She said I was a poster child for who the institute helps and finds success through their program. I was elated. I called my mom and asked her if she would go with me to Houston if I could get an appointment. Sandy (the nurse I spoke with via the telephone) said if I could come in this month I could get a $1,000.00 discount because they are celebrating their 25th anniversary, and offering that discount until the end of the year. I said yes. Knowing that my parents have a trip planned to Cabo this month and Tyler has a trip to the Border (again, I know.) planned for this month. Knowing that Anslee has 3 school parties and Christmas program and Christmas vacation this month. Kensington has a Christmas party and program this month. I didn't care, I was going to figure it all out and make it happen. I was ready to be treated and clearly wanted to take advantage of the discount being offered. She scheduled me for Thursday, December 4th. I couldnt believe it. in 3 days! My mom wasn't gone on vacation yet. Tyler had the day off to keep the girls, and no parties or programs on this day. It was perfect timing. 7:30 - 11:30 am was my scheduled appointment. Yes. They spent 4 hours with me.4 hours. It was clear they wanted to spend a lot of time with me so they could treat me from all angles and have every bit of information they needed to be able to do so.

Wednesday the 3rd my mom and loaded up and headed to Katy, Texas. It was about 4.5 hour drive - that ended up taking us over 5 hours due to getting turned around and confused and driving the wrong way down a one way street. But that is neither here nor there so we will move on (Love you, mama :)

We got to the hotel and basically went to bed. We woke up and headed over to the institute. This is what we drove up too.

We were greeted by the kindest staff. They were trained to be service oriented and it showed - from the lady that welcomed us, to the nurses (who wear suits and heels. no scrubs allowed!), to the Doctor, the pharmacist, and the vitamin specialist. I felt like I was being treated like royalty. Everyone asked us what they could get for us, if we wanted more coffee, or a bathroom break. It was more spa like than clinic like. Color me thrilled.

We got signed in, and filled out some additional paper work, and were walked straight back to the scale and restroom by the nurse. She took my vitals and weight and then took us back to our exam room. Then they took our "snack order". What? We would get a snack as soon as I was done getting my blood drawn. They took 8 viles of blood for testing to have a baseline. They assured me, though, that was just standard procedure but my treatment would not at all be a reflection of the lab results.

Then, Mom and I feasted on this.

Hummus. Cucumbers. Carrots. Boiled eggs, Bell pepper, INCREDIBLE coffee, and almonds and cashews. It was all so delicious. Especially the bell pepper and hummus. Oh my yum.

After we snacked, the nurse took me to another exam room to do my EKG. They wanted to make sure my heart was healthy enough for any type of treatment they potentially could have me on. Then I did a lung function test to test lung capacity. All looked well with both.

Then, we were taken back to my room and the doctor came in. He spent well over 1.5 hours listening to me. Talking to me. Explaining things in detail to me. Doctor Ellsworth is brilliant and knows his craft inside and out. He did a test on me - He put a liquid form of bioidentical cortisol and progesterone under my tongue. He asked me how I felt immediately after I swallowed. I had some congestion, and after the drops it was gone and I told my mom I felt like I could run a couple of miles. It was an instant mood lifter. Mommy crack much? Don't worry, we bought a few viles of that stuff and I am high on my own hormones. Good stuff.

After listening me list off all my sympotoms, from fat fingers (and everything else for that matter) to not sweating, to moodiness and depressive like thoughts and feelings, to cold hands, low body temperature, to not being able to loose weight (my biggest concern, because apparently I am vain). He was confident in his diagnosing me with low thyroid fucntion. He explained that my body was clearly making enough of the hormone (why my labs came back normal) but that when the hormones were delivered to my cells - they werent functioning correctly at the cellular level.

He explained that I needed to be on a yeast free diet. He says if we have been on an antibiotic of any kind for any amount of time the good bacteria, along with the bad which creates an abundance of yeast (candida) in our gut - and its hard to get healthy in any way if your gut is not working at its optimum. 5 days into this diet I will begin a nystatin regimen to kill off any other candida still in my system.

He asked me what goals for my health were. I told him, and said ok we can help you reach those goals. I told him I wanted to wear my precious wedding ring again. I wanted to loose this pesky weight. I want to sleep at night and feel energized during the day. I want my hair to grow back. I want my nails to not be brittle, thin and rigid like they are. Also, the doctor looked at my tongue and said it was retaining fluid as well - I said that even though that didnt bother me on a daily basis - I would prefer my tongue not retain fluid any longer. :)

Next, they served us lunch. I forgot to get a picture of that, but it was a grilled chicken, brocoli, and raspberry salad. It was so good. The raspberry vinaigrette dressing was so delicious I made them give me the recipe - to which they said, "my pleasure" and did so.

Here is what I left my appointment with

 
Approximately 23 natural vitamins and supplements. These will help gut health, tiredness, and helping my body replenish itself with everything it is deficient in. I also came home with Armour thyroid, nystatin, and progesterone. Thyroid and Progesterone to level our hormone imbalance. Ive started out taking 1 thyroid each day. In two weeks, I will add another. Two weeks after that I will be taking 3 daily. Then I will bump up two weeks later to taking 4 each day. I take 2 progesterone capsules, on days 8-28 of my cycle. Nystatin I will begin in 3 days (after 5 days of being yeast free in my diet).

As mentioned before, I got the viles of mommy crack. These are taken as needed for relief of moodiness and tiredness. They are two for the price of one on your first visit, so yes, two bottles of sanity for the price of one - please and thank you. All of the hormones I am taking are bioidentical, and not synthetic. My body will not be able to tell the difference between what my body is actually making and what I am supplementing it with.

Throughout the day, as our visit went on, notes were taken, suggestions were made, and every bit of information was complied for me in a personalized treatment binder. I also have 24/7 access to someone on the nursing team via phone or email should I have any questions.

They also gave him his book, that I am sure I will learn so much more from. I am excited to begin reading. Along with this one.

This book will go into more detail about the important of balancing out all of our hormones, not just the thyroid. I think this talks about how bioidentical hormones are much safer and effective than synthetic ones that are made in a lab. 

As a reminder of how important it is to drink water, they gifted me with this super nice water bottle. Bottoms up, friends.

The yeast free diet is explained in this optimal eating guide they sent me with. 

There are suggestions in here on what to eat with certain foods - spice recommendations, and several tips and "cheat like" foods to eat. So many recipes in here, as well. It will be a great go to guide for cooking and meal planning for my family. Its actually VERY close (just a little more restrictive) to the TRIM HEALTHY MAMA diet I have been doing for a couple of months - so the transition to this way of eating will not be such a shock to the system. 

I feel like I learned so much about overall health, my own personal health, and that I can trust myself and my sympotms more than just blood work. We are so much more than what our blood says, and its important to trust yourself when you think something is off with your health. I am so excited about the results that should come hopefully within the next 3 to 6 months. I hope to report back on this soon. I am currently on day 3 of treatment and the yeast free diet so I am just a pup at this. I can't wait to see how my daily living quality will be changed. 

Thanks to my mom, who spared no expense to help me get started on this. It speaks volumes to me that she would take two full days of life and dedicate them to my health. I owe her more than I could ever repay.