tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69684945218862371102024-02-18T23:24:31.231-06:00Bloggings of an Army WifeJust a spot for me to share tidbits on my life as an Army wife - the good, the bad and sometimes the ugly!Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.comBlogger250125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-47747949172724216262010-10-30T16:02:00.005-05:002010-10-31T13:58:22.637-05:00Come, Follow me!!!Hey guys! Just wanted you to know that I have started a new blog to go with the new chapter in my life... Click <a href="http://medicmomof3.blogspot.com/"><strong>here</strong></a> to join the journey!!! Thank you all for your love an support during the last roller coaster ride! I pray you will join me as God writes the next chapter and fills it with many BLENDED BLESSINGS!!!!!!!!!!Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-58531136715342199972010-06-28T14:58:00.002-05:002010-06-28T16:13:28.183-05:00Tickets, Toddlers and TumorsIts been a busy month. Complete with Mother's day, Father's day, vacation, school ending, summer camp beginning, and the title of this post....I'll spare the details of the first few things on the list - I'll just say that I have the greatest family and friends ever!!!! My kids are truly blessed. Now, onto the juice of this post.....<br />I have gotten 2 (YES TWO) speeding tickets in the last month. I've always had a lead foot. I know its wrong. But I drive an ambulance for a living for pete's sake! I am used to driving really fast in a diesel truck and people getting out of my way. I drive through red lights (always with due regard) and break speeding limits daily! I've paid one, but will be fighting the other. The circumstances surrounding the other are questionable. I'll keep you posted! Buckle up for safety!<br />We have begun the arduous task of potty training Reese. My goal is for him to be dry during the day by the end of July... wish me luck! Any pointers are greatly appreciated!<br />And lastly, I took Hailey to the Dr on June 17th for a perpetual cough. We couldn't get rid of it even after all my old tricks. The Dr gave her the once over and gave her the diagnosis of sinus infection. She looked in her ears and noticed something strange. Initially we thought it may be an infected pimple on the inside of her ear canal. The Dr gave us some antibiotics and told us to come back if things changed for the worse. By Monday, this "thing" had grown so much that it was coming out of her ear canal, completely blocking the opening. Truthfully, it looked like a jelly bean sitting in her ear. I took her back to the Dr (after getting my second speeding ticket for the month) Monday afternoon. The Dr took one look at it and decided this was beyond her scope of expertise and called the ENT. He could see us in 15 min, so we hurried (within the speed limit) over there. He took about 2 min looking at it and said it would have to be surgically removed. He called it a "tumor" - I do NOT like this word. So the next 48 hours were filled with phone calls, preop paperwork, nerves and tears. Wed, June 23, my baby girl was taken back to surgery at 1215. Approximately 45 min later, the ENT came out and told me that he thinks he got it all but we'd have to come to the office next week for the results of the biopsy. So tomm, hopefully, we'll have some answers. Hailey has done well. She was in a good bit of pain the first few days, and her ear bled a lot, but she's no worse for the wear now. She's waiting on the ok from the ENT to get back in the water...we're supposed to go to the lake next week. I am finally starting to breathe a little better. It was a scary few days.<br />I just want to say that I have the most amazing family and friends. They have always surrounded me when I need them most and even when I don't know I need them. I am truly blessed! So there it is, my monthly update. Some craziness, but mostly just mommy stuff, work and life....boring - just the way I like it!!!!Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-19183119212409007292010-05-14T00:32:00.003-05:002010-10-22T15:19:05.452-05:00Is anybody there?Hello Blog world! If my existence was determined by the number of blog posts I've made, I know I would be considered MIA or DEAD..... However, have no fear! I am alive and well. There has been a lot that has happened over the last 6 months (seeing as though I posted last Nov 22) and I'm excited to tell you there are more changes to come. Here's a quick update....trust me, there will more than likely be individual blog posts on each of the events listed - all to be posted in due time.<br />*I am buying our house and its a nightmare! Cory and I decided that I would keep the house since we bought it with the kids in mind. However, I have to take it out of Cory's name and put it into mine...so I have to buy it! Let me tell you, it SUCKS! I'm doing all this stuff, making all these phone calls and I won't even get the joy of "moving" into my new home (ie picking out paint colors, new bedding, matching bath sets, etc). However - I love that my kids are settled and I will be the proud owner of my own home soon!<br />*I am still working. And by working, I mean WORKING. I am now a single mom (not just geographically anymore, I will legally be a statistic again soon), and I still work as a Paramedic in our County's EMS system. But on top of that, you can also find me working with our hospital's Transportation service as a Paramedic or with our local Rescue squad as a Paramedic or in the ER as a Communication's associate (my old job), or around town doing my Guardian Ad Litem thing or selling <a href="http://www.thirtyonegifts.com/"><em><strong><span style="color:#ff99ff;">Thirty One</span></strong></em> </a>products! If you lost count, thats 6 jobs that currently pay our bills! Keep in mind, the only "full time" jobs I have are Mom and Paramedic - the rest are just PRN positions that I hold and work when I can. I like to have as many different options as I can so that I don't get bored with one place or group of people.<br />*The kids are adjusting well. We have our good days and bad days, of course. But overall, they have been resilient. Samantha will be wrapping up her dance year in the next few weeks and will begin guitar lessons this summer (she got a PINK guitar for Christmas). Hailey has enjoyed the season off from soccer, but is ready for the fall. She will be taking piano lessons this summer. Both girls are going to a summer camp this weekend and have been accepted into a 1 week gifted summer enrichment program through Converse college. Reese is heading full speed ahead into potty training. So far, it has been good. He's having to make some adjustments since he's with Daddy, Granny and Pop every other weekend. We're all making the best of it and so far, it hasn't been too traumatic. We're on the go all the time, but wouldn't change it for the world!<br />*I think I'm gonna start a new blog. I think its fitting for this time in my life to close this chapter and create a new. I will keep this one up for a while longer because its linked to a local news station. However, there will be a link to the new blog as well. Hopefully you guys haven't given up on me! I have been keeping up with most of you, even if I haven't commented!<br /><br />So look for more to come! There's plenty more I could type about, but I don't want to make my "first blog back" too lengthy. Thanks for hanging in there with me. Please feel free to leave me a message to let me know you're still here!Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-48833955953157700232009-11-22T22:19:00.004-06:002009-11-23T00:29:57.382-06:00Getting back on the horse...maybeI am still alive, for those who were wondering. Its been almost 2 months since I've posted last...the reason for that is simple - my life is CRAZY!!! Since my last post, we've had a lot going on.... here's my feable attempt to catch you up: (hopefully I'll add pics sometime before the turn of the decade...)<br />*We celebrated the girls 8th birthday with one heck of a party!!! Filled with <a href="http://www.critterkeeperupstate.com/"><span style="color:#33ff33;"><em><strong>creepy critters</strong></em></span></a>, custom cakes and some of our most favorite people on the planet!!!<br />*The Daddy of our house made his way home.... FINALLY!!!!!!!!<br />*The Fall soccer season ended and a week later we started winter training...its never ending!!!<br />*Sam is still doing dance and has decided to add Upward cheerleading to her schedule (as if we didn't have enough to do!!)<br />*Reese is into EVERYTHING and occasionally gets stuck... case in point- he thought it would be fun to "play" in his bath seat (<a href="http://www.cymax.com/Common/Product/ImageGallery.aspx?ID=169610"><span style="color:#9999ff;"><em><strong>you know the one you put baby's in that encircles them so they dont slump over and drown in the tub</strong></em></span></a>)..... well..... he's grown a little, ok A LOT since the last time he was in that thing and he got stuck. Not "stuck" like threatening a limb stuck, but I was unable to manipulate his chubby little legs out of it. So, I (along with my BFF) spent some time one Sunday morning extricating him with a hack saw and some Dawn dish detergent. I love making memories!!<br />*Cory is officially done with active duty Army...now its back to the Reserves.<br />*The girls carried the Army flag at the Veteran's Day program.<br />* We've already celebrated Thanksgiving with my family because my parents and girls will be going to the beach on Thanksgiving to meet with my brother, <a href="http://magners-random-ramblings.blogspot.com/"><span style="color:#cc33cc;"><em><strong>SIL</strong></em></span></a> and adorable niece and we will be going to Anderson to visit Cory's family.<br />*Our old post - Fort Hood was struck by <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/33678801/ns/us_news-crime_and_courts/"><span style="color:#990000;"><em><strong>tragedy</strong></em></span></a>.<br />*While all of our closest friends survived this attack, we lost another <a href="http://ccemtpmedix.blogspot.com/2009/11/fallen-hero.html"><span style="color:#000000;"><em><strong>dear friend</strong></em></span> </a>only a few short weeks later...<br />*I'm carrying 3 cases right now with my <a href="http://www.oepp.sc.gov/gal/"><span style="color:#ffff66;"><em><strong>GAL</strong></em></span></a> stuff.<br />*I am <a href="http://www.nremt.org/Content/NREMT_Home.nremt"><span style="color:#330099;"><em><strong>working</strong></em></span></a> like crazy.<br />*We've lost some animals (2 of <a href="http://exoticpets.about.com/od/hermitcrabs/ig/My-Hermit-Crabs/4harrypotterclose2-JPG.htm"><span style="color:#009900;"><em><strong>these</strong></em></span></a>, 1 of <a href="http://exoticpets.about.com/od/hamsters/ig/Pet-Hamster-Photo-Gallery/Chester---Hamster.htm"><span style="color:#993399;"><em><strong>these</strong></em></span></a>, and 1 of <a href="http://media.photobucket.com/image/guinea%20pig/imontheecomputer/307.jpg?o=3"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><em><strong>these</strong></em></span></a>)<br />*But we've gained <a href="http://exoticpets.about.com/od/guineapigs/ig/Guinea-Pig-Photo-Gallery/Gary---Guinea-Pig.htm"><span style="color:#cc0000;"><strong><em>one </em></strong></span></a>too.<br /><br />So as you can tell, we've been busy! With kids and pets and work and extra cirricular activities, my life is jam packed!!!!!!! I hope you are all doing well! I am trying to keep up with your blogs, though I may not ever comment! Wishing you a safe and Happy Holidays!! Hopefully I'll be back before the turn of the decade, but if not - have a safe and happy one of those too!! LOL!Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-10043537280459242382009-10-03T07:34:00.003-05:002009-10-03T07:37:36.799-05:00Back up and runningCory finally got his blog back up and running! Go <a href="http://ccemtpmedix.blogspot.com/"><span style="color:#66ffff;"><em><strong>here</strong></em></span></a> to check it out! I couldn't be more proud! I know I am quite slack on blogging lately. I'm dealing with some things personally and I am just choosing to lay low for a bit! Don't give up on me... I'm slowly getting it together! Soon, very soon, I'll have all sorts of posts for you to read - there's a lot going on in my corner of the world! Til then, stay safe and God Bless!!!Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-16306233584666036992009-09-22T19:51:00.002-05:002009-09-22T20:01:05.761-05:00Lost connectionsI'm posting a new blog because, if you haven't noticed, the link in the blog before no longer works. Cory is making a new blog and hopefully he will put his most recent blogs on the new one! Anyway. Lots of happenings, but I don't have the energy to post any of it right now! I hope you are all doing well! Check back soon for more detail!Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-50574897509290983672009-09-13T16:33:00.002-05:002009-09-13T16:39:02.240-05:00What's happening...You wanna know what's been happening in our house? Go <a href="http://emtpmedix.blogspot.com/2009/09/new-beginnings.html"><span style="color:#3333ff;">here</span></a> for more details!!!!! Please pray for us, there's some changing going on!!!Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-37765475858592565212009-09-05T09:51:00.002-05:002009-09-05T10:43:41.448-05:00What was I thinking?Today is day 2 of another 7 day stretch of working. At the end of the stretch, I will have worked approximately 112 hours. WOW! That sounds ridiculous! What was I thinking? I think I have lost my mind... if not, I'm sure I will have by the end of this schedule! Anywho... just wanted to update those of you who care, on what's been going on this week:<br />*Monday was MY birthday! Yep, that's right. I turned the BIG 2-7!! I spent the day alone for the most part. I had court in the afternoon for my G.A.L stuff - it did not go the way I had hoped! I left frustrated and annoyed at the unorganization of some and the lack of communication of most! I picked up all the kids and came home to a beautiful bouquet of yellow and white DAISIES (my favorite) and balloons on my front door step from my favorite US Soldier! He's so sneaky! I finished the night with dinner with the parentals, my BFF and all the kiddos!<br />*Tuesday was CORY'S birthday! (isn't he lucky? I've made it easy for him to remember my bday - its the dayh before his!). He turned the big 2-9(almost 30, hehe!) I had to work a 24hr shift, so my day was almost a bust (I say almost because the next bullet will be about how amazing our God is!!!). Cory had a good day, I think. He had dinner with some of our closest military buddies, complete with the Chicken Dance, the annual "birthday beating"(not as painful as it sounds), and a gift from his roomies. I didn't buy him anything (shame on me, I know) because I will be purchasing the next COD4 complete with night goggles in the next month or so - that will be his birthday gift!!! We missed him, but this will be the last!<br />*God is Good! All the time! Here's what saved my Tuesday... Let me go back a day - Court, on Monday, was disappointing. But when I left, I called to give the 411 to the person in charge of "my" kiddos (the G.A.L. kiddos that is). She informed me that they boys would be moved the next day but was unsure where. I was beyond frustrated as I could envision the nightmare it would be to track down these kids once they are moved (communication is lacking in the job - BIG TIME!) Anyway. I decided that I would spend the next day (Tues) trying to make heads or tails of it all. I woke up dreading the phone calls I would have to make. I went into work and began talking to the off-going crew. One of them made a comment that she had to hurry home because she was getting 2 new kids that day and had to rearrange a few things... I inquired as to the ages. She said 8 and 2! I gasped and asked if it was >>>>> >>>>> and >>>>> >>>>>>?!?! She said YES!!!!!!! OMG! PTL!!! No phone calls needed to be made! I knew where they were! And it also meant I didn't need to rush over to the foster home to make sure it was suitable (some of them are NOT - trust me!)! I was so excited and relieved! The foster mom and I work together, so we communicate on a semi regular basis - so I can keep close tabs on them! I love it!!! God is SO good!<br />*We are in full swing of Soccer season. Hailey's doing great! Its so neat to watch her develop her skills in the sport!<br />*Samantha started dance on Thurs. SHE LOVED IT!!! That's actually an understatement! She got her first pair of ballet slippers and she was glowing! I can already hear the "tap,tap,tap" that will be ringing through our house when she gets her tap shoes!<br />*Reese is doing well... still rotten, as always! He no longer cries when we leave him at daycare, he now cries when we pick him up!!! But I'll take it! He's with MeMa and Pop (Cory's parents) this weekend. I will have to de-program him next week - for sure!<br />So that's it! We're in full swing of life now, settling back into a routine after the crazy summer! I am exhausted most days when I finally make it to bed. I have always wondered what it would be like to have a "normal" life - but have recently come to the realization that THIS is our "normal". Its chaotic most days, but I LOVE IT!!!!!!Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-39746566922991881802009-08-22T03:02:00.002-05:002009-08-22T03:29:37.952-05:00Livin' the life...So its Saturday at 4 am... I've officially survived the week! Its been a long one. But here's a run-down of what's been happening:<br />*Cory made it to Texas on Sunday and settled back into the Army life pretty smoothly. He has begun the daunting task of "clearing" everything so he can ETS (get out) in a couple months. We hit a snag this week - The Army pays extra pay for hazard duty and family seperation while the soldiers are deployed. This pay is supposed to stop when they return home. Well, it seems that the Army has made a mistake (GASP!!!! I know you are shocked) and has continued to pay 85% of the soldiers this extra pay. Sounds great, right?!?! Well, once the Army realizes it, they want their money back - all at one time!!! I caught the error this past week, and Cory has reported it. So now, we wait for Cory to come home with very little to no check one week...<br />*Reese started his new class. He sobbed when I left him - it broke my heart! But he's adjusting well after we leave him. He had an allergic reaction to Cinnamon on Thurs. Have you ever heard of such? His little face and chest broke out into hives - so it was definitely just a contact reaction. I will be getting him an EpiJr this week! The kid is so sensitive to EVERYTHING!!!!!!!!<br />*The girls are loving school (so far, that is). Hailey has had 2 soccer practices and LOVED them both (despite almost roasting!) I've Samantha enrolled in a Tap/Ballet/Jazz class. It will start in Sept.<br />*I have officially started my "new" job. I put that word in quotations because it is technically not new to me. I was doing the same job before we left to go to Texas. So I'm just going back to where I came from... that's how I see it! Anyway. So far, it has been a good move for me. Hopefully I will continue to see it that way!<br />*I also have my first OFFICIAL case. I can't post details due to privacy, but I can say it involves 2 children (Ages 9 & 3). I am very excited and nervous all at the same time. Please pray that I will always keep their best interest in mind and that I can make a difference in their lives with the help of God.<br />* I will be working a good bit of overtime at my "old" job. I am there now, hence the ability to blog! Because of the Army situation, I just want to be ahead financially BEFORE we are drowning!<br />As you can tell, we've been super busy! But busy means times flies. And for me, that means the world! We're getting back into a routine and settling in.... Just livin the life!Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-17464884454600066332009-08-16T20:24:00.001-05:002009-08-16T20:26:55.815-05:00Just a quickie...Just wanted to stop in and tell everyone that I am alive. I've got so much to share, but not today. I am going to bed. Cory left about 4 hours ago and the kids are finally in bed. Tomm is a big day here at the Trotter house - Reese moves up to Toddlers, the girls start 2nd grade and I start my new job. So I need to rest in preparation!! So check back, hopefully by the end of the week, I will have an adequate post to catch you all up!Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-15108551780036902312009-08-09T23:15:00.002-05:002009-08-09T23:49:25.685-05:00Is anybody out there?I'm sure many of you have given up on me here in the Blog world. I would apologize, but that would not be genuine. The fact of the matter is that I have been spending as much time as humanly possible with my husband and family since he has been home. Hopefully you understand. Life around our house has been pretty boring. Just spending the days hanging out, doing the "normal" family thing.<br />*Cory has managed to paint both bathrooms - one with the girls help.<br />*I have completed my G.A.L. Training. I hope to have my first case soon.<br />*Reese moves up to his Toddler class next week.<br />*The girls start 2nd grade next week.<br />*Cory leaves Sunday :(<br />*I start my new job next week<br />*Hailey is signed up for Soccer, Samantha will soon be signed up for Jazz.<br />*We've been to the mountains<br />*We've been to the lake<br />*Bugsy (aka Houdini Hamster)escaped<br />*But found his way back in the cage while we were at the lake<br />*Turtle (his name has slipped my mind yet again) has decided to "hibernate" under this tree.<br />*The dogs are fat and lazy as always.<br /><br /><br />I think that about sums it up! We've had a blast just being "normal" and are super sad that Daddy is leaving us again. BUT - this should be the last time! The next time he comes home, it should be FOR FOREVER!!!!!!!!! WooHoo! Have a great week...Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-27647413830153270922009-07-14T01:52:00.002-05:002009-07-15T00:15:52.511-05:00Change is good...Right?!?! Then why do I feel like puking when I think about the changes that are to come in the next few months?? I know its just because they are going to force me to leave my comfort zone. I know its going to be so rewarding once I am "settled" into my new surrondings. But I just can't shake the nauseous feeling...<br /><br />*Monday I was offered a different job. As of next month, I will no longer be sitting in my "fish bowl" office, answering the radio and dealing with angry family members. I will trade in my comfy scrubs and tennis shoes for steel toe boots and BDU's. I will leave the comfort of my air conditioned (often times too much) room, office chair and cable TV for 12 hours and hit the streets in the middle of the August heat. I will be working with our county's EMS (emergency medical services) System. I will be a "real" Paramedic. I've been a Paramedic for 2 years, but have not been on a truck since we moved to Texas (and back). I will be working 24's for a while, as I wait for a 12 hour position to come open. I am SUPER excited and terrified all at the same time. I am thrilled to be putting one of my 3 college degrees to good use. The money is going to be way better and hopefully I will not be exhausted constantly once I settle in!!! But knowing all of that, I am sad to be leaving my current job!<br /><br />Believe it or not, I love my job. I knew coming into it that it was only temporary as I know my calling is to be serving our community on the streets, but it still breaks my heart to leave. I will not be "leaving" the people, as I will see them when I bring patients in, but our relationships will be different. I will miss my job, but I know this is what's best. It still makes me queezy!!!<br /><br />*I am also training to become a <a href="http://www.oepp.sc.gov/gal/"><span style="color:#33cc00;">G.A.L.</span></a> This is something I have felt led to do for a long time, but didn't want to take any of the (already minimal) time I had with the kids while Cory was gone. But now that he's home, I have decided to take a leap of faith! I am anxious to see how God is going to use me in the lives of the children that will cross my path. Again, I am beyond nervous, but I know without a doubt that this is where God is leading me!<br /><br />*Cory will be home THIS Friday! Holy Cow! I can't believe its here. Seems like we've been waiting an eternity!!! Again, this is beyond exciting! But on the flip side, it makes me uneasy. I have got to learn to let someone else take some responsibility around the house. Cory is a wonderful father, but its hard to "let go" of the control I've had for the last year!<br /><br />*I am officially on a "diet". I want to lose weight for several reasons. The biggest reason is so that I don't have to buy new BDU's. That's as shallow as it gets! LOL!! I've got several pairs of work pants and I don't want to have to buy anymore - they are NOT cheap! I am doing the Atkins diet. The reason is simple - I do not eat many vegetables (lets be honest, I think I may eat 5). But I will eat just about any kinds of meat, cheese, etc. My one biggie to give up is bread/carbs!! So if you see me out - keep me accountable!<br /><br />While I am slightly freaked about all the changing going on, I am also beyond excited! Continue to pray for us as we transition into the next phase of our life.Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-11022543958320819432009-07-10T22:30:00.003-05:002009-07-11T03:04:15.424-05:00Friday FiveI haven't done one of these in a while, so I thought it would be good to do one! Here are five things going on at the Trotter household...<br />1. The Daddy of our house will be home NEXT Friday!!! I can't believe its finally here! We are all beside ourselves with excitement. Luckily, the kids will be busy with the grandparents (see below), or else I think they'd drive me nuts!!!<br />2. The girls will be in Charleston for the week visiting Uncle Brian and Aunt Annie - and of course Hannah Banana!! Reese will be with the out laws (hopefully he'll make the week). But don't be jealous because I won't be enjoying any "me" time because....<br />3. I will be working 84 hours over the next 7 days. That makes me tired just thinking about it... I don't know what I was thinking when... oh wait - I do know what I was thinking. I get to be off when Cory is home, so while I will be exhausted to the point of physical illness when I'm done, it will be soooo worth it!!!<br />4. I've got some cleaning to do... unfortunately with me working that many hours, I don't think it will happen. However, thanks to the kindness of a good friend, there may be hope!!! Our house is not "dirty" by any stretch of the word, but it needs a little TLC (ie dusting, mopping, vaccuming). I just want our house to be perfect when our Hero arrives.<br />5. As if I don't have enough to this week, I'm trying to get a "Welcome Home Hero" party together for our soldier. And I have NOTHING done for it! UGH!<br /><br />So we are super busy to say the least! But it will all be worth it when we are ALL in the same house. I've forgotten what it feels like to be a "real" family!!! So there you have it. I've been working on this blog for the last 5 hours - so its Sat now! I'm at work - so I've had to stop and actually do "work"!! Have a wonderful weekend!Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-34672109046552812352009-07-08T21:13:00.002-05:002009-07-08T22:07:37.218-05:00A lesson in forgiveness...Today I did something that, had you asked me over a year ago, I never thought I would have done. Before I share what I did, I want to share a couple things that have been on my mind. It all ties together, I swear... just bear with me!!<br />Forgiveness, to me, means that you have truly moved past whatever the situation was. It is not in our human nature to forget, but I believe that true forgiveness means that NO MATTER what, it is never brought up again (ie in the heat of an arguement, or to "prove" a pattern of something). For the most part, I don't really have any issues with forgiveness... I might would argue I forgive too easily sometimes. But today, I had to not only "preach" forgiveness, I had to live it...<br />For those of you who do not know "the story" about how Cory and I came "to be", its a soap opera in itself. Here's the reader's digest version: Cory was married, his wife was unfaithful, he found out, he kicked her out, we started dating a week later (we had been friends for a while before - in fact I was the one who encouraged him to "really look into" her activities... this too is a great story of the cunningness of women and the links we'll go to to get what we want). Back to the story... of course, because we got together so quickly, there was great speculation that we had been having an affair before - this was not true, for what its worth. (Don't get me wrong, I figured out months before this happened that He was the one for ME, but he was faithful - at least physically- to his marriage) Anyway, his wife was out to ruin me for a while. We absolutely hated each other and said and did a lot of things that were hurtful to and about one another. Needless to say, when we moved to Texas, I was soooo glad to be away from her and the situation!<br />We moved on, got married, had a baby, you know the story. She married "the guy", and is now expecting herself. All was calm and quiet... We just kept our distance.<br />When I moved back to SC, I knew we would be running into each other at work so I emailed her and told her that I saw no reason that we couldn't be civil at work. I had enough to worry about this year, and I didn't need the added drama. I fully expected for her to email me back and let me have it. She didn't. Surprisingly, she apologized. It was a heart felt apology. I, too, apologized for the things I said and did. It was nice to feel the chains that had bound us together, due to the dislike we had for one another, break in that moment.<br />Fast forward to today....<br />She and I are friends - real friends - now. We do lunch and chat on a pretty regular basis. She even called to tell me she was pregnant the day she found out and I even got a call when they found out it was a boy. We are actually a lot alike (despite what Cory thinks... love you baby!) Her father passed away a couple days ago. The moment I heard, I reached out to her and let her know I was praying for her family. And tonight, I went to the funeral home to pay respects on behalf of Cory and I. As I stood in line, I was thinking about how far she and I have come and I was proud. I was initially uneasy. What do you say to your husband's ex-wife's mother who just lost her husband (the relationship I have had with them is less desirable than the one I had with their daughter). I prayed that God would give me the right words to say. And, as always, he did!<br />I'm not sharing this story with you guys to "toot my own horn". Lord knows this has been a long, bumpy journey and I have been less than Christ- like on MANY occasions. I am not proud of any of that. I'm sharing this story to encourage you to think about those with whom you may be holding a grudge against, for whatever reason. What was your role in the situation? What can you do to rectify the wrong? I'm not saying you have to hang out with the person or even talk to them. You can forgive a person without them even asking. Forgiveness is YOUR choice. Is there anyone you need to forgive today?Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-5371399176226873832009-07-01T22:56:00.004-05:002009-07-02T01:54:18.029-05:00Q&AI was reading one of my favorite <a href="http://bbbbrowns.blogspot.com/2009/06/q.html"><span style="color:#993399;"><strong><em>blogs</em></strong></span></a> and she did a Q&A. I thought it was neat, so I thought I'd play along. Here are a few of the questions I am asked when someone finds out I am an Army wife (and that my husband was deployed)...<br />Q - Who keeps your kids while you work so much?<br />A - God has given me the greatest parents in the world! They live 2 miles from us and never hesitate to keep the kiddos. The kids have a super nice set up over there and have everything they would ever need or want at their house!<br />Q - Is Cory going to Re-enlist? If so, what will you do?<br />A - Much to the surprise of some, WE are planning on re-enlisting. But we will go Reserves (either Army or Air Force). I say "we" because we have made the decision. It is OUR life, after all and we both wanted to be ok with the terms. I'll keep you posted as details come...<br />Q - What was your biggest fear while Cory was gone? (or what is your biggest fear)<br />A - My biggest fear was never him being injured or even death. I can deal with anything medical that is thrown at me... my biggest fear was and always will be the Army and his deployments will change who my husband IS; on the inside. In some ways, he's not the same. But I can honestly say it could definitely be worse!!!<br />Q - What is the hardest part of Cory being gone?<br />A - This changed depending on the situation. Sometimes it was climbing into an empty bed. Sometimes it was knowing he was missing so much of the kids lives. Sometimes it was having to do everything around the house by myself. Sometimes it was just not being able to pick up the phone and call when I wanted to. Holidays were particularly hard. There never was a "hardest" part for me.<br />Q - How do you do it? (this was always my favorite)<br />A - What choice did/do I have? When Cory and I were dating and he expressed his wishes to go Active, I promised him I would follow him anywhere and support his dream. Granted, neither of us could even imagine how hard it would be at times. But it is a journey. We've made some wonderful friends along the way. We've been tested and survived! We've learned a lot about each other and ourselves. How do I do it? With the grace of God, an amazing support group of family and friends, lots of tears, lots of prayer, and one day at a time.<br />Q - Knowing what you know now, would you do it all over again?<br />A - ABSOLUTELY!!!! YES,YES,YES! While our run with the Army hasn't always been easy, I wouldn't change any of it for anything! It has given us opportunities that we would not have been afforded otherwise. I will be sad to leave Active Duty life, as it gave us our "start"! However, I know it is what is best. But it thrills me to no end to still be able to serve in the Silent Ranks!!<br /><br />So there you go. There are tons of other questions, that are sometimes a bit controversial (ie - how do you feel about the war?; the president?; the army?). If you guys have any questions, please feel free to ask. I am no "master" of this life, but I will answer as best I can. Also, to the other Army wives, feel free to share some of your answers - I'm sure you get asked the same stuff!Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-40194082003131091212009-06-29T01:30:00.003-05:002009-06-29T01:58:27.154-05:00Playing catch - upAfter changing my flight voluntarily and then mechanical problems, I finally arrived back in SC yesterday morning. The kids were there to greet me with Grammie and I was so excited to see them! <br />I had an amazing first week in Texas, complete with manicures, pedicures, spray tans, SLEEP, adult beverages, girl talks, road trips, shopping, a great steak due to Doc losing a bet (love ya!), lots of laughs, some tears and TONS of anticipation waiting for our soldiers to return!<br />Friday was D-day for 2 of us. All day we (Elizabeth and I) were nauseous and just trying to keep occupied. The guys' plane arrived around 1730 (5:30 for non military), but they did not make it to the gym where we had been waiting for OVER 2 hours until 1930 (7:30). But after a brief (thank GOD) "welcome home ceremony", the reunion began. Cory and I stayed in a local Hotel for the first two nights to give us some time as well as the Sheplers. I'll keep the details to myself as they may be TMI for most.<br />Sunday we moved Cory into his new domain (AKA the Shepler's), where he shall dwell until his contract is up... or housing realizes he is living there and kicks him out (which ever comes first). Our week was filled with a road trip to get Cory's new truck, tons of movies, a new LCDHD TV for Cory's father's day, SLEEP, eating out, tattoos, spending time with friends, making new friends, the Sheplers getting a puppy that we all loved on, cooking dinner together, Brownie Batter Blizzards, and just eating up every second we had together! <br />I took very little pictures, as we did very little. But that's who we are. Homebodies! I may or may not post pictures of our reunion. I haven't decided if I want to keep them for our memories only or share them with the world. We'll see. <br />Cory should be home on July 17 for 30 days. I'm looking at having a "Welcome Home Hero" cookout/party on the 18th (maybe) or later. The kids are SO excited that Daddy is coming home and Cory is beside himself!<br />I am back at work and it looks like the next 3 weeks will be crammed with work, house cleaning, unpacking, swim lessons, day camp, day care, work, party planning, work and did I say work? I'll be working tons to make up for being off the last two weeks and being off while Cory's home. Needless to say, I'll be busy! But hey, at least it will keep me occupied, right?!?! <br />I'm so glad to have my hubby stateside, but sometimes I think its almost worse knowing he is attainable, I just can't go to him whenever I want! Does that make sense? Anywho! Please keep praying for us all as we transition into our new "normal".Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-50162695065097697632009-06-14T01:07:00.002-05:002009-06-14T01:09:51.695-05:00Texas bound...I will be Texas bound in about 4 hours. I am so ready to go for MANY reasons. Please continue to pray for us as we transition out of one phase of our lives and marriage and into another!!! We expect Cory to be in Texas by the end of next week! Thank you so much for your love and support over the last year! We've ALMOST made it!! WooHoo!!Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-26115136944201332262009-06-11T23:36:00.002-05:002009-06-11T23:40:11.626-05:00For Daddy, Love ReeseI finally figured out how to make a slide slow. This is for you, Cory! Grab your kleenex! Enjoy! Love you!<br />PS You have to disable to music player on the right! YOU NEED TO HEAR THIS SONG!!<br /><table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4f5463354f4463334e773d3d0d0a&blogview=true&campaign=blog_playback_link" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play this Smilebox slideshow: For Daddy" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4f5463354f4463334e773d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/slideshows" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox slideshow</a></td></tr></table>Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-68251206680692578762009-06-09T04:13:00.006-05:002009-06-10T02:07:55.164-05:00Breaking pointI am 4 days from flying to Texas for what will probably be my one and only vacation for the year! And lets not forget the most important reason - our hero comes home... soon. Everything is still on go, despite (in true Army fashion) some last minute changes of plans. It promises to be an emotional time for us both. The end of one journey and the beginning of another. And while I am beyond excited to see my soldier, I have to be completely honest and tell you guys why I'm REALLY looking forward to going back to the Lonestar state: I need a break!!!!!!!<br /><br /><br />I've known for months now that I am approaching "that" point - physically, mentally, emotionally. You know what I'm talking about, right? When you begin to lose sight of the "why" you are doing things. When you are in auto pilot and simply going through the motions. And this was further confirmed last night.<br /><br /><br />I work at our county's hospital (a level 1 Trauma center) in the ER. My job, while not physically demanding, requires me to think on my feet and "git r done" with very little to no resources. I also deal with ALL the calls that come into the ER - family, doctors, EMS, police, etc. I could post for days about the conversations I have had with family members... another time, I promise. Most times I am extremely courteous and try to be as compassionate as possible, as I know the frustration of the family members.<br /><br /><br />I am VERY limited, legally, as to what I can release over the phone. So this gets sticky sometimes when families demand to know more. Tonight, was no different. A lady called and asked if her daughter was a patient here. I looked in our system and politely told the lady no. End of conversation. Two minutes later, the same lady called back. Here was our conversation:<br /><br /><br />Me: Good evening. _______ ________ EC, this is Christan.<br /><br /><br />Her: Yes, I just spoke with you. You said my daughter wasn't there. I just spoke with her and she said she was. I want to know why you lied to me. Did you even look?<br /><br /><br />Me: Ma'am, I take great offense to being called a liar. Why would I lie to you about something that makes no difference to me?<br /><br /><br />Her: Well you said she wasn't there. She is there.<br /><br /><br />Me: Well you asked if she was a patient, she is NOT a patient. She may have been seen and discharged, but that's not what you asked. I don't know if she's out front, I'm not sitting out there. (I have to admit, I probably wasn't conveying the most "customer friendly" tone with that...)<br /><br /><br />Her: Well I'm coming up there and I'm gonna fix you.<br /><br /><br />Me: More capable people have tried to "fix" me, ma'am and have been unsuccessful. But you are more than welcomed to try.<br /><br /><br />Her: Well, you're just a b****. I'll be there in a minute and you'll be fixed.<br /><br /><br />Me: Be sure when you get here, you ask for Christan Trotter, T-R-O-T-T-E-R, there's four Kristen's here and I'd hate for there to be a mix up. I'll be more than happy to let you give it a shot.<br /><br /><br />Her: We'll see if you're talking all that s*** when I get there<br /><br />Me: I'll be here waiting.<br /><br />That was the end of the conversation. I called up to the front desk (my office is in the back, hehe) and told the security guy that if an irrate woman comes in and is asking for me, please call me. He chuckled and asked "Who have you pissed off now?" You see, this is not the first of such occurances. I told him the story and he laughed "That is classic you... I love it". She never showed... Darn it....<br />Now, I must say here that any of you who know me well know that I try not to have conflict but I do not back down from it either. Here lately, I've found myself instigating it. Needless to say, I need a break. And that is exactly what I will be taking starting Sunday!!!Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-84452351344296283862009-06-04T05:04:00.002-05:002009-06-04T05:14:18.476-05:00The Road Not taken<div align="left"><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>I had to memorize the poem below in the 7th grade</em>. <em>It impacted my life tremendously. I know that I have given my parents more than a couple gray hairs because I am forever taking the "road less traveled". But that's me. Never take the easy way out. Just wanted to share my favorite poem. Enjoy!</em></span></div><div align="center">Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,</div><div align="center">And sorry I could not travel both</div><div align="center">And be one traveller, long I stood</div><div align="center">And looked down one as far as I could </div><div align="center">To where it bent in the undergrowth; </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">Then took the other, as just as fair, </div><div align="center">And having perhaps the better claim, </div><div align="center">Because it was grassy and wanted wear; </div><div align="center">Though as for that the passing there </div><div align="center">Had worn them really about the same, </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">And both that morning equally lay </div><div align="center">In leaves no step had trodden black. </div><div align="center">Oh, I kept the first for another day! </div><div align="center">Yet knowing how way leads on to way, </div><div align="center">I doubted if I should ever come back. </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">I shall be telling this with a sigh </div><div align="center">Somewhere ages and ages hence: </div><div align="center">Two roads diverged in a wood, and I-- </div><div align="center">I took the one less traveled by, </div><div align="center">And that has made all the difference...</div><div align="center">Robert Frost</div>Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-82243260179299639462009-05-29T21:01:00.002-05:002009-05-29T21:26:26.732-05:00RandomI know I have been total slack with blogging lately. And I'd like to say I'm sorry. The fact of the matter is that I haven't had much that is "blog worthy" going on lately. Scratch that. Yes I have. I just can't seem to find the words to say...<br />Reader's Digest version: my life has been chaos for 2 weeks. The rollercoaster has definitely thrown me for some loops. In the interest of saving time and my family's privacy, I will spare the details. Lets just leave it at its been rough. Please pray for us!<br />In other news, we have added another mouth to feed at our house. Its a turtle named Dinky. We are foster parenting for the summer as his owners have some valid reason for not keeping him (I'm not sure I remember exactly why). So far, he's been easy. We've had a turtle before, so we kind of know what to expect. The kids love him, so for that, he can stay for a while. Our hamster still escapes frequently, but has learned to put himself back in the cage when he's hungry. Its interesting. Again, the kids love him, so I can't complain.<br />I'll be heading to Texas in a few short weeks for what promises to be an emotional reunion with my soldier. Reese is growing like a little weed. He's learned several new words lately. To include - turtle, bird, and Barbie. The girls are sooooo ready for summer break. And I... well I'm just trying to survive the next few weeks without having a serious break down!<br />So that's it for us. Just moving along, trying to keep it together for this last little stretch! Thank you to all of you who have been praying for us and will continue to do so! This journey is almost over, thank God. The next one looks to be just as eventful, unfortunately. What I wouldn't give to remember what it felt like to be "normal"!!!Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-31671428832722479662009-05-17T18:24:00.001-05:002009-05-17T18:26:04.659-05:00Some heroes wear capes...Some wear combat boots, and still others wear pink boxer shorts! For those of you who have no interest in the news (or the time), click on the link below for a story that will bring a smile to even the hardest of hearts!!!<br /><br /><a href="http://news.aol.com/article/pink-boxers-taliban/486339" target="_blank">http://news.aol.com/article/pink-boxers-taliban/486339</a>Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-38955096796666449672009-05-13T20:37:00.004-05:002009-05-13T20:46:03.535-05:00Walking among heroes<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHR0sdevEAY7wkr-ACe0qcFSM7GOWS0BD6OsRZ4Ipu7X_o44Y38nF4ZGigg1CgwSUsuNCE_nOW4AdYw-5CrC_vCAUXmYTkeeOOKLfYZztbNWFUbv1wbQriUAfEfh_Itkew6_zUBIIvN7Mi/s1600-h/100_0254.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335489105344804882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHR0sdevEAY7wkr-ACe0qcFSM7GOWS0BD6OsRZ4Ipu7X_o44Y38nF4ZGigg1CgwSUsuNCE_nOW4AdYw-5CrC_vCAUXmYTkeeOOKLfYZztbNWFUbv1wbQriUAfEfh_Itkew6_zUBIIvN7Mi/s200/100_0254.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>By Staff Sgt. David Hopkins, 3rd BCT, 1st ID, PAO</div><br /><div>Facebook Digg Delicious April 30, 2009 News</div><br /><div>JALALABAD AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – When a man with blood-soaked hands emerged from a small shop in the Nishgam bazaar in northeastern Afghanistan in mid-March and approached a Fort Hood troop of Soldiers he had one request for their medic – to save a baby’s life. Soldiers from Troop C, 6th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, were on patrol through the bazaar to show a presence in the area when an Afghan nurse burst into the street seeking help from the American Soldiers. </div><br /><div>“I wasn’t sure what he wanted at first,” Spc. Anthony Janda, 6-4 Cav. Regt., medic, said, “but I followed him into the little shop. Inside there was an 8-year-old boy holding a baby who was wrapped in gauze and had blood all over him.” </div><br /><div>The baby was victim to a circumcision that went wrong in a village across the border in Pakistan and was brought to the nurse to help, but his knowledge and supplies were limited and the baby was in shock. Janda knew immediately the injury was serious judging by the amount of blood on the floor. Acting quickly, the medic began to remove the gauze from the child and for the first time realized just how bad the injury was. </div><br /><div>“When I started to pull the gauze away blood squirted at me,” Janda said. “I didn’t really think about it at that point. It was all instinctive.” He had never worked on a baby and was not trained in any medical techniques to save babies, but Janda, a father of a three-year-old, knew he had to save the child. </div><br /><div>He tried to control the bleeding by applying gauze to the wound. While he was doing this, he sent another Soldier back to get his noncommissioned officer-in-charge, Sgt. 1st Class Jimmy Carswell, so he could request an evacuation. However, before the senior noncommissioned officer arrived, the baby’s heart stopped beating. </div><br /><div>“I’ve never done CPR on a baby before,” Janda said. “Normally I just work on the guys, making sure they are healthy and mission capable. This was completely new.” He performed CPR on the baby and in a couple minutes detected a pulse, but the child wasn’t in stable condition. He had lost a lot of blood and the medic had none to replenish the baby’s supply. The medic and Carswell, who had arrived and was working on getting the baby evacuated, decided to try an IV solution called HEXTAND, which adheres to blood cells and adds more volume to the blood supply. Janda found a small needle in his aid bag. He hit the baby’s tiny vein on the first attempt, but his heart stopped beating.</div><br /><div>Janda revived the boy again with CPR. He knew the baby wouldn’t survive if they didn’t get him to surgery, so Carswell ran out into the street to hire a cab. “I found a local and had our interpreter get him to find a cab,” Carswell said. “It’s a thirty-minute drive, but it was the only way to get him back to the (forward operating base).” </div><br /><div>Before the cab arrived the baby’s heart stopped for a third time but Janda again successfully revived him. When the child was stable the nurse from the bazaar shop went along with him on the rough, gravel roads to FOB Bostick. By the time they arrived on base, the intravenous solution had taken affect and the baby was responsive and crying. </div><br /><div>With the help of a large medical team and advice from a pediatrician on the phone the Soldiers stitched up the baby and saved his life. “The cut was deep,” said Sgt. Shay Wilson, Forward Operating Base Bostick’s aid station noncommissioned officer-in-charge. “When the surgery was performed, just over the border in Pakistan,” Wilson said, “the surgeon, or whoever did the surgery, cut too deep. The baby lost a lot of blood, but Janda did the right things to stabilize him and get him to us.” </div><br /><div>After the baby and nurse left the bazaar, Janda and the others went back to work without knowing the baby’s fate. “I had a heavy heart,” Janda said. “I was really worried about the kid and wasn’t really talking to any of the guys. I was depressed because I really didn’t know if he was going to make it.” Several hours later the word was passed to the troop that the baby had survived and was doing fine. The entire troop breathed a collective sigh of relief. </div><br /><div>“To have a medic of that caliber with you is priceless,” Staff Sgt. Eric Winn, Troop C squad leader said. “Knowing you have a medic that good with you when you go out lets you focus more on the mission at hand. I wouldn’t want anyone else working on me out there.” </div><br /><div>Janda and his team have visited the baby since saving his life and he has recovered and is doing well. “It was great to see him healthy,” Janda said. “I’m just happy I was able to figure out the right things to do, and am happy he gets to live a healthy life.”</div><div> </div><div><em><strong><span style="color:#336666;">The picture above is Janda, his wife Jaime and their son, Aiden! We are so proud of you, Janda! We love you and can't wait to see you soon! You truly are a hero and we are honored to call you friend and family!</span></strong></em></div>Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-78053501183804397542009-05-09T20:40:00.002-05:002009-05-09T21:01:22.581-05:00Every rose has its thornsIf you have ever had the joy of eating a meal with my family and I, you know what a process it can become. The girls are and have always been wonderful eaters. They will at least try anything we put in front of them. And when they eat, they EAT. They are by no means "bird eaters". They can inhaled massive quantites of food that sometimes leaves me asking "where did you put all that?!?!" They are very tall and skinny.<br />Reese, on the other hand, is SUPER picky. That doesn't even scratch the surface. He is beyond picky. He will usually only eat fruit, with the occasional grilled cheese, bacon grits and a rare (as in time, not cooking) chicken nugget. I do only allow him fresh fruit as I feel that if he's gonna eat it, it might as well be the healthiest I can get. <br />Well, today we went to a good friend of ours' little boy's b-day party. They had those little smoked cocktail weenies with BBQ sauce. I fixed my plate and sat down to eat. I, as always, offered Reese a bite of a weenie. To my surprise, HE ATE IT!!!! And even said "Mmmmm" Which is his way of letting me know he REALLY likes it. I was elated. Ya'll he NEVER eats anything new I offer. So I continued to feed him several. I stopped only after I realized he had eaten A LOT and I didn't want to upset his sensitive stomach.<br />We went and played. He did his "poop thing" - its so dramatic, but hilarious. (I know this is TMI, but I"m trying to save this memory). Immediately, I knew something was wrong. He absolutely refused to sit down. This isnt completely abnormal since when he was an infant, we would rush to change his diaper because he had such stomach issues (we needed to check the poop - I know, I know, TMI). This resulted in a bit of a Divo - he hates to have a dirty diaper. Anyway - back to the story...<br />He would not sit down, so I decided to check his diaper. Sure enough, it was dirty. I laid him down and proceeded to "do the deed". When I took off his diaper, I gasped! Ya'll, his bottom was SO red. Bless his heart he started screaming and continued to do so while I gingerly wiped him off. IT.LOOKS.HORRIBLE!!!! I caked on the Desitin and diapered him up. He laid on my shoulder the remainder of the party. He's pitiful.<br />When we got home, I let him run around naked, but everytime he sat down or fell down, he would cry. We did a bath and that seemed to help. But you can tell he's really uncomfortable. Bless his heart. I feel so bad.<br />I told Cory. His response "Sometimes the best things you will ever put in your mouth will literally tear up your behind coming out!" Love him! Does anyone have any tips on how to help my little boy recover any quicker?!?Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6968494521886237110.post-55815952270631624122009-05-08T20:03:00.002-05:002009-05-08T20:08:46.764-05:00Proudly serving in the silent ranksMilitary Spouse Day, 2009<br />May 8, 2009<br />By The President of The United State of America<br />A Proclamation<br />Military spouses share the sacrifices of service with our Nation's men and women in uniform. As members of the Armed Forces serve in the United States and across the world, military spouses also serve our Nation. When a servicemember goes to war, we know their spouse also shares in that sacrifice. I am inspired by their commitment to family and our Nation, and on Military Spouse Day, we honor these individuals for their contributions.<br />Wives and husbands of servicemembers display an uncommon courage and strength as they steadfastly support their spouses during long and arduous deployments. While they endure separations that are filled with worry and anxiety, they face unique stresses. Foremost is the concern about the safety and well-being of deployed loved ones, but there are many other challenges. From managing household finances to comforting children impacted by a military parent's absence, military spouses take on the burdens of maintaining families largely on their own.<br />This task is complicated even more as spouses work to maintain careers and a sense of community while moving to new duty stations around the country and the world.Despite these hardships, military spouses are an inexhaustible source of strength for our military families and donate their time generously to local communities. Military spouses offer the love and encouragement that help servicemembers endure the challenges of serving our Nation. Military spouses support one another as friends and mentors. They serve in family readiness groups to keep fellow spouses informed and to provide mutual support. They contribute as volunteers to improve neighborhoods, military installations, and communities. These contributions strengthen both our Nation's character and its security.<br />All Americans should express appreciation for military spouses and let them know they are not alone. To help those who need it, friends, co-workers, and neighbors can offer to help with the burden of daily tasks and thus give military spouses more time for themselves and their families. To assist spouses who are coping with the absence of a loved one, individuals can listen and offer their counsel. Americans can also volunteer through the many organizations that provide assistance to military families.Our Nation maintains a sacred trust with every individual who serves. My Administration is committed to showing our Nation's gratitude for them by honoring our obligations to their families.<br />NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 8, 2009, as Military Spouse Day. I call upon the people of the United States to honor military spouses with appropriate ceremonies and activities today and in the future.<br />IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.<br />BARACK OBAMA<br /><br />I stole this from a fellow Army wife, Tina (hope you don't mind)! Just wanted to take a minute and thank all the Military Spouses who come across my blog. Thank you for your sacrifices, your support, and your heart! I am so proud to say I serve with some of the strongest men and women I know - in the "silent ranks". May God bless you all, your families and your soldiers! Hooah!Medic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07431788381714371915noreply@blogger.com1