Ups and Downs

It's been a rough month. Our IUI attempt on August 14th resulted in a BFP. However we'll never get to meet that precious angel. Never have a chance to hold them, name them, but we did have 4w 4d to love them! Baby Vann went to be with Jesus on September 1, 2010.

This cycle we're moving on to IVF. I began my lupron injections last night. Our tentative date for egg retrieval is Wednesday October 13th. If all goes well and according to plan (like MY body does that) we'll have a day 5 embryo transfer on Monday October 18th. Then we wait for testing on Friday October 29th.

I hate needles, but I must say, I'm getting used to the little ones I use to give myself shots in the belly daily. I guess that's a good thing because for 11 days beginning Oct 1 I have to give myself 4 shots a day!?! I am terrified of the Progesterone in oil injections that I will have to do for almost the entire first trimester if this pregnancy holds. (Brian will give one shot to me in my hip, nightly) The Progesterone needles are big though, and long so they can get into the muscle. Did I mention I'm scared?!?

On another note, my brother in law Adam and his wife, Amanda celebrated the birth of their daughter, Madely Naomi. Maddy was born at 1:40 am on September 9th (her mommy's 25th birthday). She was 4 pounds 3 ounces and 18" long. She decided she just couldn't wait until her due date of October 18th, so right now she is still in the NICU at the hospital, but she is getting stronger every day, and will be home before we know it!

My sister, Joanie, is getting married. . . in 6 weeks. On November 6th to be exact. She's pregnant too. Due April 7th. If we hadn't lost our baby, we would have been due a month apart (our due date was May 8th). I have ordered my dress for the wedding, and made sure it could accommodate a growing (or at least swollen) belly in hopes I have great news to celebrate too.

The kids I babysit are both in school now. So when Brian gets back to work I will have my afternoons free again. I'm looking forward to some peace and quiet time! Not that the kids are ever a problem, it's more just the fact that while Brian has been on disability, I NEVER have a minute alone, here at the house. He doesn't get it. He thinks that if he lays in the bed, and doesn't talk to me, it should make up for it. . . but it's just not the same. Does that make sense to anyone but me?

Oh well. . . I've rambled enough for one night. Take care all, and feel free to leave me a comment.

What a Week. . .

Wednesday (8/4/10) we ordered our vial of donor sperm.

Today I had a blood draw to check my Estradiol levels (that checks the growth of my follies) and it's only at 57.4. The dr wants to see it over 100 at this point. So I have to up my Gonal-F dosage from 75 to 112.5 units a night.

I go back on Monday for another ultrasound, to check the actual sizes, growth, and number of my follies. We should be able at that point, to tell when I should do my trigger shot and schedule my IUI.

Our little kitty, Autumn passed away. We have no idea what happened or why, but we miss her very much!

It's On!

Today is cycle day 3 and for anyone who has gone through fertility treatments, you know what that means. . . off to the doctor for a baseline ultrasound. We got the all clear to begin my injectables tonight.

One shot down (believe it or not, it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. . . I even gave it to myself!) and hopefully only about a dozen to go.

I pray every day this is it for us. We won't have another chance, financially. So I say bring on the crazy chick with the raging hormones, bring on the poking and prodding, bring on the shots and psycho inducing, egg producing meds. . . because I'm tired of waiting and wanting and hurting, and I'm tired of wondering "Why not me?"

Another WOW moment

I went to Kings Island on Saturday for the first time as a "skinny person". Even as a teen, I couldn't ride most of the rides. . .

Well let me tell ya, it's a whole new experience! I rode the Drop Tower and the Diamondback roller coaster, then ate and went to the water park's wave pool (it was unbearably hot out that day) I can't wait to go back when it's a little cooler, so I can ride everything else. . . ok well not EVERYTHING, but almost!

Anyone up for Coney Island some time? I really only want to go for the Tilt-A-Whirl (which I never "outgrew") but who knows what other ride I might fall in love with!?!

This Year. . .

This year I will be my healthiest self!

This year DH and I will resume our TTC efforts!

This year my husband will be 40!!

This year I will be a better friend, a better sister, daughter, wife!!

This year I will put God first in my life!!

This year I will donate to charties and volunteer my time!!

This year I will do more things I enjoy doing, and less time complaining!!

This year will be the best year yet!!

Latest Updates

The last time Brian weighed himself, he had lost at least 135 pounds so far. That was about 3 weeks ago. He's down from 6X to 3X/4X!!! Work is going wonderful! 2 more weeks, and he's out on the floors again!!



I weighed in last on November 29th. I have lost over 171 pounds so far, and I'm under 200 pounds for the first time of my adult life!!! It's fabulous! I feel good!! I went into DEB at the mall the other day and just playing around tried on a few dresses. I would post the pics here, but I can't seem to get them to pull up.

Thanksgiving went well. We hosted it this year, and I made my first turkey as well as my first ham. . . They were pretty good! I guess that's about all for now. . .

Updates 11/16/09

Well let's see. Brian is beginning 5th week back at work. He's still in training, things were going very well until today. One of his classmates quit and said it was because of something Brian said. . . so he's taking it very hard!!

I can't believe Thanksgiving is next week!! Where has the year gone? I'm hosting this year for my family. . . I'm making my very first turkey ever (so pray no one gets food poisoning).

The past few weeks have been crazy busy! My sister moved into the apartment across the hall over Halloween weekend. I've been watching my nephew on nights she works, and with the running Brian back and forth to work, helping her settle in, and visiting George (my FIL) in the hospital almost nightly the past 2 weeks, I'm just totally exhausted!!

My last step on the scale was on Sunday, November 8th. I've lost a total of 160 pounds so far :o) I'm very excited about it!

Well I think that's all the updates I have for now!

Pretty!!

Here are some pics I've taken at the Arboretum. Some very pretty flowers, and some of the Butterflies in the Butterfly House!

Mr Turtle has some moss issues on his shell!!

This is Brian, our nephew Jack, and Kristen at the arboretum.

Princess Kristen the Flutterby!!

Hope you enjoyed them!

What's New With You?

It's been awhile since I've posted. . . but really there isn't anything new to talk about, really.

School has started, so I don't get to see Brayden anymore. Kristen is still only here about 2ce a week. I'm watching my nephew Jack, about 2 days a week. . .

Brian is doing pretty good. He's reapplied to go back to work, right now we're just waiting to hear back from them. He's lost about 100 pounds since his surgery. He's moving around much better than before.

As of my last weigh in, I've lost 127 pounds. I have gone from a size 38W to a 24W in pants sizes. I feel really good about my progress! And I'm more than half way to my goal weight, only 87 pounds to go!

Last week I took Kristen to the Butterfly House at our local park. It was fun. I'll post pics soon. . . gotta find that cord!

Well that's all the rambles for now. . .

Ahh Children. . .

No matter how long I watch children, I will never understand some of their logic.

Today it's Kristen who has me confused. For those who don't know her, she is a very energetic 3 1/2 year old. She loves her big brother, her mommy and daddy, and her Brian and Julie! She like to play babies and tea party, loves to watch Dora and Spongebob!! She can have the patience of a saint, or act like the devil himself, at her whim. . .

But today my questioning is over food. She is the pickest eater, mostly prefering chicken (only in leg or nugget form) and frozen waffles (still frozen). The other day I made mac and cheese, asked her if she wanted any, to which the reply was, "Yucky, I don't like that!" Um ok, but you used to like it. . . Well 5 minutes later she standing next to me eating all of mine. (Not that that's a problem I really shouldn't be eating it anyway) So fast forward to today. I asked her what she wants for lunch. After I talk her out of another frozen waffle into a grilled cheese, she replies, "But DON'T cook it!!!!" Kristen, Honey that's a cheese sandwich, not a grilled cheese. So anyway I make her sandwich first, then grilled Brian a ham and cheese sandwich. . . and finally make a salad for myself. By the time I sit down to eat, the child has finished her sandwich and is wandering over to see what's in my bowl. My salad of lettuce, ham, cheese, scallions, and poppyseed dressing was just too hard for her to pass up. . . the child who wouldn't eat anything besides frozen waffles, ungrilled grilled cheese, and chicken suddenly had the need to devour my entire salad. . . so I question you, what goes through the mind of children?

7/9/09 Updates

I wanted to stop in to give you the latest updates!

Brian went to see the dr on Tuesday. He's lost a total of 82 pounds so far. He is having a much harder recovery length wise anyway. He got an infection that ruptured a hole in his incision, but it's on the mend.

I had an appointment yesterday, and my weight loss total so far is 92 pounds!!!! I'm doing pretty well. I still get tired quite easily, and my hair has started falling out by the handfuls, but it should be short lived (I hope).

What A Day

SIL, Amanda and I

enjoying a pre show beverage. It was a Down Home Punch, and I only had about half of mine. . .

Yesterday was the JABBAWOCKEEZ/Jesse McCartney/NKOTB Concert @ Riverbend in Cincinnati. It was very hot (about 90) and the ground was still wet from the rain the night before. . . but all in all I had a great time.


This was my view during the JABBAWOCKEEZ.

That said, though I gotta tell you about the freak. . . There was some kid, didn't look old enough to drink, but he was obivously drunk, who just came and plopped down beside me (on the other half of my drink, spilling the rest of it) like he knew me. He then leaned over and acted like he was going to bite me. I jerked my arm away, and he's lucky I didn't punch them! He apologized but didn't go away. He then had the nerve to put his hand on my thigh, and I told him to leave (in a not so nice manor). When he didn't I went to get up and walk off. . . he got the hint (finally) and took off. FREAK!! When he took off I worried maybe he had been trying to steal something, so I checked everything, camera (check), wallet & debit card(check), SIL's debit card in her wallet (check), nothing seemed to be missing. . .

Jesse McCartney

And my other complaint is that all the young adults around us were totally trashed, and if the girl next to me stepped on my foot one more time, spilled one more drop of her beer on me, or grabbed ahold of my arm again to keep from falling over because she was so drunk, I was going to punch her too!!! Be an adult and know when to stop! Then the girl behind me dropped her cell phone on my shoulder *OUCH* People can be so rude!

New Kids on the Block

The WOW Moments

just keep coming! My pre-surgery clothes are way too big, so I headed to Fashion Bug today for some shorts to get through the summer. I bought a pair of shorts that were size 28!! I wore a size 38 before surgery. It felt so good! I feel good! I'm getting curves, I'm buying smaller clothes, I'm really beginning to love the newer me!

I've lost another 9 pounds since my weigh in and am down to 280, with a total loss of 84 pounds so far!

Work in Progress. . .

Everything about my life is a work in progress. I'm working to be a better wife, friend, sister, daughter, caregiver. I'm working to become closer with God, I'm working on getting my body where it needs to be so Brian and I can begin TTC again, and as the weight comes off I'm working on accepting the changes in my life.

Here is the latest picture update of my work in progress!

Yippie!

I'm finally getting excited about my weight loss!!! My dad found a couple pair of jeans I wore in high school, and I was just sitting around here tonight thinking hum. . . . I wonder. . ..

I tried them on and they FIT!!!! The blue pair are kinda stretchy and fit wonderfully! The black pair I can get on and button but they're still tight across my stomach, so maybe a few more pounds (or some swelling) and they'll be perfect too!

Anyway just wanted to share my excitement with you!!

Check-up #2

Was on Thursday May 7th. I was dehydrated and having issues with phlegm in my throat. I hadn't been taking my meds or vitamins. Well the dr sent me down stairs for fluids (3 liters) to hydrate me. I came home and rested the rest of the day.

Friday I had to go back for an upper GI to check for blockage--nothing.

Saturday I woke up and decided this was stupid, and even if it killed me (I was having issues with foods and such getting caught in my throat) I was going to get my meds in!! I did
and I did again on Sunday and I'm working on them today. I'm feeling better physically, but I haven't resolved the issue witht he phlegm, so I'm going to see my family doctor today.

I go back tomorrow for another check in (to the surgeon, checking on my progress from Thursday). Wish me luck!

Keeping track? Check in here!

As of Day 27 I have lost 56 pounds.

4/26/09~ 61 pounds gone forever!! 4 pounds to go to be under 300!!!

6/1/09~ 73 pounds gone forever! I'm @ 291 today! 6/19 I've hit a plateau and am holding steady at 291. . . . gotta get that protein in!

Where is Everyone?

It seems like I'm all alone! I belong to several online groups, I have a huge family, and many friends. . . yet it seems like noone is around.

I thought people would call or e-mail and check up on me. . . yet I haven't heard from my family since I visited them on Easter. . . .

I know I'm having a pity party for myself, but I had major surgery, aren't I entitled to feel as though I should be pampered and checked in on?

First post op appaointment

was today! They took out my J-tube and said it looks like I'm healing well. I've lost 21 pounds in 2 weeks! I can see it some in how my clothing fit, but I can't "see" it in my body yet, I guess that comes with time.



Now. . . what in the world is with the weather? SNOW in APRIL?!!? I want SPRING!!!!!!

Doing OK

I just wanted to let everyone know I'm alive and well. I'm taking one day at a time. I have a follow up appointment on Tuesday, I'll let ya know what the dr has to say!

This is what I had done. . .

Biliopancreatic Diversion Weight Loss Surgery

The biliopancreatic diversion (BPD) is a malabsorptive weight loss surgery, which promotes weight loss primarily through incomplete food digestion and absorption. It is considered a very effective surgical procedure for the treatment of obesity, but it must be considered carefully as a patient will need life-long monitoring and daily vitamin supplements to prevent nutritional and mineral deficiencies. Because of the high risk of nutritional deficiencies, it is used less often than other types of weight loss surgeries.
The biliopancreatic diversion is a combined operation in which changes are made to both the stomach and the intestines. Although the BPD anatomy is similar in principle to the Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGBP), it is a more complicated combined operation and fewer bariatric surgeons perform the procedure, especially laparoscopically. Compared to the RYGBP, the stomach pouch is larger which allows patients to eat more and a greater length of the small intestine is bypassed which reduces absorption of calories and nutrients.
Restrictive Aspect of BPD Weight Loss Surgery
With the biliopancreatic diversion weight loss surgery about two-thirds of the stomach is completely removed, unlike the Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGBP) in which the stomach is bypassed but not removed. Removing a portion of the stomach somewhat restricts the amount of food that can be eaten at any one time, but the main purpose is to decrease the amount of acid produced by the remaining stomach.
The new stomach pouch is created from the upper stomach area, while the lower stomach section and normal stomach outlet (pyloric valve) is removed. A new stomach outlet is formed which is then joined to the final section of the small intestine. This procedure completely bypasses the first and middle section of the small intestine where most of digestion usually takes place. The bypassed section of the small intestine continues to transport bile and pancreatic digestive juices, but it is reattached near the end of the small intestine where it then mixes with the food.

Malabsorptive Aspect of BPD Weight Loss Surgery
By cutting and rerouting the small intestine, the distance between the stomach and colon (large intestine) is significantly shortened, as is the section of the small intestine in which food and digestive juices are mixed. Calorie and nutrient absorption does not occur once food enters the colon. By shortening the digestion process, the body is not able to fully absorb all of the calories and nutrients from the ingested food, resulting in weight loss.
The section of small intestine where the digestive juices and food mixes is referred to as the common channel. The bypassed section of the small intestine is referred to as the biliopancreatic channel. The section of the small intestine where the food travels is referred to as the alimentary channel. Bariatric surgeons can vary the length of the alimentary channel and the common channel using various formulas to determine what length is most appropriate for each patient.

So anyone who was curious about my surgery, there's the info!

Now onto after. The 3rd day was the worst!!! I cried most of the day, it hurt so much. That was the day I questioned "What have I done?!?!?!?!?" But everything seems to be going ok. I'm walking, keeping everything down (knock on wood) and doing pretty ok.

Two Weeks!

I can't believe it's only 2 weeks until my surgery. I meet with the surgeon tomorrow, I have pre admission testing on Wednesday. . . I started a low fat diet today.

Brian also got approved!!!! His surgery is scheduled for Tuesday April 28!


I gotta say I'm a bit nervous, but I'm so so excited too! I know the end results will be worth it!

Ready or Not. . .

Monday, March 23 at 7:30AM

What does that date and time mean? That's the date for my surgery!!!

What a week. . .

Well we're all moved in. Of course we still have unpacking to finish, but we're all moved in.

This week is going to be a busy one. . . I'm working Monday Tuesday and Thursday, plus we have unpacking to finish, We hear back probably Monday or Tuesday if Brian gets his approval for surgery (I got the call Friday I am approved), and then hopefully we'll set dates when we get the call Thursday from the surgeon. Friday is my 30th birthday. I'm so dreading it! I don't want to turn 30!!

Well got a lot to do. . . I'll check in again soon!

Another Blah Day

It has already been an emotional and crazy year. . . From having to fix yet another tire on the van, to the ups and downs of being with someone 24/7. . . from the highs of laughter at something the kids said funny, to the sadness of missing them so much. . . who knew 2009 would begin like this?

For the most part things are looking up and up. Brian and I have both completed our perquisites for surgery, and after 3 stress tests (between the two of us) and numerous other testing, I think now we just have to wait to hear if the insurance company will cover us.

I'm missing my boogies. . . I have only had them twice since Christmas eve. Between their parents having off, and us needing off to go to the doctor, I'm not getting enough Brayden and Kristen time.

Oh and moving. . . moving isn't so bad, but I hate relying on other people. In case you didn't already know, Brian's whole family is in the trucking business. His dad and both brothers work for his uncle, who owns the company. . . Now while this does come in handy at moving time, it isn't all it's cracked up to be. My brother in law (who shall remain nameless) has refused to let us come up to the shop for boxes, saying he'll drop them by. Well it's been a week of promises, and even as of yesterday a promise to deliver them today. . . and he was a no show again. . . It's frustrating! I am ready to start packing things up, and while, yes I do have 19 days to pack, I like to do things at my pace, and slow and steady wins the race. So hopefully he'll get off his bum and bring me some boxes, because come Wednesday about 1:00 if I haven't seen him, I'm going to arrive at the shop, and I just might not be so nice about it!

I guess that's all I have to whine about tonight. Thanks for "listening"

New Year, New me!

A new year is a time for new beginnings. I anticipate a multitude of new things to come this year, beginning with a new address.

We're moving! This time though, we're moving closer to my family, but we're still only about 15 minutes from Brian's family as well. This will take place by the month's end.

February will bring a new decade to my life :*( The big 3-0 is looming very near!

Hopefully March will bring about surgery, and the beginnings of a whole new me!!!

So as you can see the first quarter of my new year is already looking like new is going to be a familiar phrase. . .

I did it!

Now that I got your attention. . . just what did I do, you ask? I go tmy hair cut! Now to most people that's nothing new, and certianlly nothing to write about, but to me, my hair had always been the one thing I liked about my body.

But as life goes, PCOS has been causing a great amount of hair loss and my hair has become thin and stringy. So I decided to take the plunge and cut it short. I think it's cute, and I like it alot.

The Results are in. . .

My blood work has come back great, all clear. Nothing to watch for, nothing to worry about. . .

However, my stress test shows that my heart doesn't seem to be getting all the oxygen it needs when it's stressed, and at a raipd beat. So that means more doctors and probably more tests, and a lot more fear and stress for me. I'm waiting to hear from a cardiologist to set up an appointment to see where I go from here.

Please, if you're a praying reader, say a little one for me.

Tests tests tests

I'm so tired of getting poked and prodded. I'm not a in cushion! Yesterday I had to have some basic blood work drawn.

Today I had to have a stress test. Talk about trippy! It didn't hurt, except for the hole they put in my hand for the IV. . . (it was a chemical test) It was a strange feeling having my heart race like it did just while laying on the bed. I made the mistake of googling it last night, so I would know what to expect (BIG MISTAKE). I went in there all worked up and scared for nothing. It didn't hurt. It didn't make me sick. It didn't give me the dreaded migraine everyone else seems to have suffered from. However it has left my head swimming and me a bit loopy. . .

I hope the tests are over and we can move forward!

Blahhhhh

I'm feeling blah today. It's been one of those weeks. . . Sunday I was sick ucky icky sick. Monday I felt better, but it was a blah kind of day anyway. Tuesday, DH and I had our evaluations at the weight loss clinik. It went well I think, but we had to get a ride because we had a flat tire on the van. My brother finally came up to change it tonight so that's taken care of, well mostly, it's onthe spare, so I have to go get the other tire fixed and put back on. . . . hopefully Friday. But that brings around the anxiey of something going wrong while I drive Boo to school.

Tomorrow my FIL is having heart surgery. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers. The news was a set back to DH, but he's going up to be with him tomorrow. Hopefully when he sees his dad as ok, it will relieve his stress and let him continue his own healing journey.

And to put the final h in blahhhhh my 23 year old only married 2 years SIL just called to announce her and BIL are going to begin Clomid. . . . come on WLS. . . then 12-18 months later we can begin TTC again!!!!!

Some Pumpkin Carving

Here are a few more pics. These are of the kids carving pumpkins.

More Trick or Treat 2008

As promised, here are pics of my family! mily 6(the pirate) Jordan 5(Spiderman), Jacob 7 (The Grim Reaper), and Jack 1 month (Baby Bumble Bee)

Trick Or Treat

I always enjoy decorating for holidays, and Halloween isn't an exception. But my favorite thing about Halloween is seeing all the children in their costumes! Here are the kids I babysit. . . I'll post my family Halloween pics in a new blog!

Pumpkin Patch

Here are some pictures of the kids from the Pumpkin Patch. I know a little late, but that's ok. . . up next? Trick or Treat photos!

He's Here! He's Here!!

Jack David has arrived! He was born Thursday, September 25th at 4:55 pm, weighing in at 8 lbs 5 ozs and measuring 21 1/4" long

Baby Jack
Big brother Jordan holding Baby Jack for the first time!


Mommy and baby are both doing well and are expected to be released to go home on Saturday.

Baby Jack is coming this week!

The doctors are inducing Jenn this Thursday @ 6:00 am, unless she goes into lobor before then. So by week's end I will have a new baby nephew, Jack David!! I'm pretty excited!

My next blog will have pics of him!

Until then,
~Jules~

September is PCOS AWARENESS Month

Do you or someone you love suffer from PCOS?


You're not alone!


Let's make everyone aware!!

For more information on PCOS and it's symptoms please check out these sites:
http://www.projectpcos.org/news_list.php

http://www.soulcysters.com

Big Decision

We went tonight to the informational meeting on gastric bypass surgery. It's a big decision. I'm ready to feel better and healthier, and excited at the possible idea of being able to shop in a "normal" store. . . but the idea of surgery is very scary for me. What's a girl to do? So I'm going to be spending my weekend doing some serious homework on the subject, and so serious praying to God for guidence.

I mean among the health factors with the weight loss, I have a great chance for returned fertility, lowering my blood pressure, and more energy, and lessoning my symptoms of PCOS. Do you have a positive, encouraging story to share? Or a link to helpful info? Please share them with me, and pray God will lead me to the right decision for me. Thank you!

Real Friendship

I got this e-mail today. It was so great I just had to share it with everyone.


1. When you are sad --I will jump on the person who made you sad like a spider monkey jacked up on Mountain Dew!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2. When you are blue -- I will try to dislodge whatever is choking you.

3. When you smile -- I will know you are plotting something that I must be involved in.

4. When you're scared -- we will high tail it out of here.

5. When you are worried -- I will tell you horrible stories about how much w orse it could be until you quit whining, ya big baby!!!!

6. When you are confused -- I will use little words.

7. When you are sick --Stay away from me until you are well a gain. I don't want whatever you have.

8. When you fall -- I'll pick you up and dust you off--
After I laugh my butt off!!

9. This is my oath...I pledge it to the end. 'Why?' you may ask -- because you are my FRIEND!

Joshua and Jennifer Tie the Knot!

It's official!! After 7 long years, and 2 babies later. . . well almost, Jordan is 5 now, and Jack is due in 6 weeks. . . they have finally become man and wife! The ceremony was beautiful, and despite a few last minute changes and mishaps, everything turned out wonderful! Congratulations guys! Welcome to the family, Jenn! We love you!

Jenn had a time with her dress. She found out she was pregnant about a week after she had ordered her gown. Luckily the store let her exchange it for a larger size to accommodate for little Jack growing. The a week before the wedding one of the bridesmaids dropped out, so I was called in to save the day ;) Luckily I had a dress the correct color (although I needed it let out a little) it worked. Then the day of the wedding, one of the ushers, our step brother, Dustin, was bumped up to groomsmen, because someone was running late. . . It was a crazy couple days, but so worth it. I have some pictures to share (sorry some of them are dark, but I think you can still see them).

5 Generation Email

I received this e-mail today. It's a sweet story. What have your hands done? Read on. . .

JUST LOOK AT THE PICTURE A GOOD WHILE, AND THEN READ THE REST. IT WILL TOUCH YOU. I was privileged to take a photo of 'Five Generations of Women' shortly before my 93 year-old Grandmother passed away last year. The photo, shown below, features the hands of my Grandmother, Mom, Sister, Niece and Great-Niece. While I can't take credit for the idea, I was so happy to have had the suggestion & capture this moment. It inspired a friend of mine to do something similar which turned out so beautiful and a special keepsake prior to her father's passing. Grandma's Hands GRANDMA'S HANDS A must read thru to the end please!!!!!!!!!!!!!Grandma, some ninety plus years, sat feebly on the patio bench. She didn't move, just sat with her head down staring at her hands. When I sat down beside her she didn't acknowledge my presence and the longer I sat I wondered if she was OK. Finally, not really wanting to disturb her but wanting to check on her at the same time, I asked her if she was OK. She raised her head and looked at me and smiled. 'Yes, I'm fine, thank you for asking,' she said in a clear voice strong. 'I didn't mean to disturb you, grandma, but you were just sitting here staring at your hands and I wanted to make sure you were OK,' I explained to her. 'Have you ever looked at your hands,' she asked. 'I mean really looked at your hands?' I slowly opened my hands and stared down at them. I turned them over, palms up and then palms down. No, I guess I had never really looked at my hands as I tried to figure out the point she was making. Grandma smiled and related this story: 'Stop and think for a moment about the hands you have, how they have served you well throughout your years. These hands, though wrinkled shriveled and weak have been the tools I have used all my life to reach out and grab and embrace life. 'They braced and caught my fall when as a toddler I crashed upon the floor. They put food in my mouth and clothes on my back. As a child, my mother taught me to fold them in prayer. They tied my shoes and pulled on my boots. They held my husband and wiped my tears when he went off to war. 'They have been dirty, scraped and raw , swollen and bent. They were uneasy and clumsy when I tried to hold my newborn son. Decorated with my wedding band they showed the world that I was married and loved someone special They wrote my letters to him and trembled and shook when I buried my parents and spouse. 'They have held my children and grandchildren, consoled neighbors, and shook in fists of anger when I didn't understand. They have covered my face, combed my hair, and washed and cleansed the rest of my body. They have been sticky and wet, bent and broken, dried and raw. And to this day when not much of anything else of me works real well these hands hold me up, lay me down, and again continue to fold in prayer. 'These hands are the mark of where I've been and the ruggedness of life. But more importantly it will be these hands that God will reach out and take when he leads me home. And with my hands He will lift me to His side and there I will use these hands to touch the face of Christ.' I will never look at my hands the same again. But I remember God reached out and took my grandma's hands and led her home. When my hands are hurt or sore or when I stroke the face of my children and husband I think of grandma. I know she has been stroked and caressed and held by the hands of God. I, too, want to touch the face of God and feel His hands upon my face.

-- Author Unknown

TGIF!

Thankg goodness it's Friday!! It hasn't been a bad week, but for some reason it seems like it has been here for ever!

Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday I took the kids to the pool. Boo started swim lessons on Tuesday evening, and when he came in on Wednesday I asked him, "What did you do at your swim lesson last night?" His reply? "I got wet" as he rolled his eyes, like duh Julie, what do you think I did? Kids, gotta love 'em.

Told Ya

I told ya I was a slacker! 13 days into July and I finally get around to posting something. . .

Going to the Pool:
We went to the pool twice last week. By me, I mean me and the 2 children I babysit. Brian did manage to go with us on Friday, though. Boo is too fun to watch. He's 4, and has discovered he really enjoys jumping in and splashing around. He even puts his head under the water and pretends to swim. Kissy is only 2, and won't leave the steps, so I have to sit or stand right there between her playing on the step and Boo jumping in. I don't have any pics, though, I'm afraid my camera will get swipped if I take it with me.

Birthdays:
Man. . . the transition from June into July means birthday central in my family. My 4 siblings all celebrate their birthdays in a 23 day time frame. Plus I have a nephew, a sister in law, and a close friend's daughter's birthday with in the 2 months. . . It's almost as straining as buying for Christmas. . .

What else? Let's see. . . um. . . well I guess that's all for now. . . see ya!

Blah

That's how I'm feeling today. Just blah! It's been rainy, and gloomy for about a week. I'm bored, but don't want to go anywhere. I'm ready for my husband to go back to work, so I can have 5 minutes to myself. I really hope we move in January, closer to my family. With gas at more than $4.00 a gallon, and Brian not working, I have a hard time justifying the trip to visit my family.

We have seen a bunch of new movie lately. The Incredible Hulk, Kung-Fu Panda, Get Smart, Fool's Gold, P.S. I Love You, and Mad Money. The first 3 were just ok to me, but I really like the last 3, what can I say, I love chick flicks! I guess that's all the random thoughts I'm having right now. . .

What does PCOS mean to you?

Well to me, PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) means many things.

It means I can't enjoy shopping with my family or friends because I have to order my clothes online.

It means I have to clean the drain out every time I wash my hair, since it's falling out by the handfulls.

It means I have to take 7 pills a day. . . and believe me that in its self isn't cheap!

It means going to the dr every 3 months for more blood work, weither I'm sick or not.

It means never knowing when you're going to start or stop for that matter. . .

It means no babies, at least not the traditional way.

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PCOS affects about 30% of women.

There are many symptoms of PCOS. Web MD lists these to name a few:

Early symptoms of PCOS include:
Few or no periods
Heavy irregular bleedings
Acne
Depression
weight gain/obesity
Thinning hair/Male-pattern baldness
Repeat miscarriages
infertility
Insulin resistance
skin tags
Sleep Apnea
High Blood Pressure
Chronic Pelvic Pain
Male pattern hair growth on face

If you have these symptoms, please see your doctor, get a diagnosis!

Babies babies everywhere. . .

but in my house. . .

I recently found out I'm going to be an aunt again. . . for the 9th time. . . I have an older brother brother with 5 children. And a younger sister with a son, and now my younger brother's fiancee is due in October with their second son. Plus Brian's nephew. Don't get me wrong I love my family, everyone of them, it just hurts, and no one seems to understand. I even have a cousin due in October.

WHEN IS IT GOING TO BE MY TURN?!?!?!? My dream, will it ever come true?

People say relax, it will happen. . . that's just not the case for me, but that's a post for another time. . . maybe even my next one!

What About You?

select all - Hit forward and place an X by all the things you've done and remove the X from the ones you have not. Answer the 30 questions at the end and send it to your friends (including me). This is for your entire life!

(x) gone on a blind date
() Skipped school
(x) Watched someone die
() Been to Mexico
(x) Been to Canada
(x)Been to Florida
() Been on a plane
(x) Been lost -
() Been on the opposite side of the country
() Gone to Washington, DC
(x) Swam in the ocean
(x) Cried yourself to sleep
()Played cops and robber
(x) Recently colored with crayons
() Sang Karaoke
() Paid for a meal with coins only?
(x) Done something you told yourself you wouldn't?
(x) Made prank phone calls (before caller ID)
(x ) Laughed until some kind of beverage came out of your nose
(x) Caught a snowflake on your tongue
(x) Danced in the rain.
(x) Written a letter to Santa Claus
(x) Been kissed under the mistletoe!
(x) Watched the sunrise with someone you care about (and sunset too!)
(x) Blown bubbles
() Gone ice-skating
(x) Been skinny dipping outdoors
(x) Gone to the movies

1. Any nickname? Jules

2. Mother's name? Susan

3. Favorite drink? Cream Soda

4. Tattoo? nope

5. Body Piercing? ears

7. Birthplace? Ohio

8. Favorite vacation spot? Gatlinburg TN

9. Ever been to Africa ? nope

10. Ever eaten cookies for dinner? yes

11. Ever been on TV? No

12. Ever steal any traffic sign? no

13. Ever been in a car accident? Yep, more than one

14. Drive a 2-door or 4-door vehicle? 3 door minivan

15. Favorite salad dressing? Ranch

16. Favorite pie? Peanut butter

17. Favorite number? 3

18. Favorite movie? way too many to list!

19. Favorite holiday? Christmas

20. Favorite dessert? whatever I'm craving at the time

21. Favorite food? Chicken Alfredo from Olive Garden and Fajitas from El Rancho Grande

23. Favorite brand of body wash? Avon

24. Favorite toothpaste? Crest Expressions Vanilla Mint

25. Favorite smell? Vanilla, Clean Linen, the laundry isle in the store

26. What do you do to relax? read, take a hot shower.

28. How do you see yourself in 10 years? Married and hoping to be a mom by then

29. Furthest place you will send this message? Australia

30. Who will respond to this the fastest? I don't know

I'm a slacker

Nothing really to tell right now. Eventually I will fill you in on my life up to this point, but tonight isn't the night. I just wanted to get this blog started, and we'll see if I keep up with it.