3rd Place isn't all that bad-

As most of you know, our travel team has been through a lot these last few months. With some of our key players leaving to play with some of our competitors, we've had to reshuffle, recruit and rebuild. However, the past is in the past and it's time to look forward. I was very proud of the boys and our "new" team this weekend. We still have some work to do, but considering what we've been through, I think our team did well and it will only get better from here. We aren't the power team we once were, but as long as we can hit the ball, we can win games. I was also happy to see my son develop new friendships with some of the new kids on the team. We have some great kids and so far, drama-free parents....it can't get much better than that!

Here is a quick shot of the team taking their first hardware...hopefully this is the first of many more to follow:



Great job, Worth!

So...wasn't it just yesterday that I was posting about how happy I was with Ellie's diabetes management this past week? Well, let me fill you in on my stressful morning. Since I told on Daddy once before (about forgetting to give Ellie a shot before school), I guess I'll tell on myself. To make a long story short, I woke up this morning to give Ellie her insulin injection to only open the bag and find that her insulin vials were....GONE! It turns out that I left the vials on the bathroom counter in the restaurant that we ate at the night before...which was obviously closed. Needless to say, I missed the entire first game as I nervously sat in Walgreens trying to get 2 new vials filled. Luckily, the pharmacist was extremely nice and helpful. She, too, was a diabetic, so she felt my pain and was doing all she could to keep my costs at a minimum. So, about 2 hours and $150 later, Ellie finally got her shot and was able to eat breakfast.

Me: "I'm so sorry, Ellie, Mommy really goofed."

and my daughter reassuring me...

Ellie: "It's okay, Mommy."

Well, that's my story...another one of those life lesson-learned moments.

Hope everyone had a great weekend. We are all exhausted and so not looking forward to facing Monday morning. Sigh....XOXO

Bradenton Update-

Whew...what a day of baseball. Our first game was at 1:00...

and
it was
not pretty!

We lost 18-1. The boys looked horrible! They weren't on their game at all, looked sluggish, struggled to hit, and all I could think was this was going to be a looonnngg day.

The second game didn't start off much better. Actually, we started off okay, but then it went down hill again. By the bottom of the 6th (we were home team), it was 10-2. It was our last time to add a few runs to the scoreboard and I don't know how, but our boys managed to get their stuff together, started getting their bats on the ball and came back to score 9 runs in the last inning to win the game...11-10.

It
was
very
exciting!!!

Jacob did okay. He had 2 really good hits....both pretty close to going over the fence. He's getting closer and if I could just put a few more pounds on that boy, he would have the power he needs to probably hit it over. Now, it's just getting the kid to eat. Anyone want to help? I'm kind of at a loss. I don't know what else to do to get that boy to eat. Any ideas?

In any event, that was our exciting day. I'm also happy to report that since Ellie's doctor's appointment, and now that the doctor has me focusing a little more on carb-counting, her sugars have been EXCELLENT! With the exception of one test at school, her sugars have not been over 160, which is really good for her! I think we are on a roll, so hopefully we can continue on this path.

Well, that's it for me tonight. It's time to hit the sack and get prepared for our 9:00 game in the morning.

Go Worth!

We made it to Bradenton-

Jacob has a baseball tournament in Bradenton this weekend, so when I got home from work, we headed west for a weekend away from home...a little R&R and lots of good baseball.

As we are waiting at a stop light in Okeechobee, I look to the right and see an old corner store called Root'in Toot'in Whiskey and Wine. We were all laughing and joking about it and this is the conversation that ensued....

Jacob: "I don't like Okeechobee."

Todd: "Why not?"

Jacob: "Cause I'm a city boy."

Really? I never would of thought, but if that's the case, I don't imagine my son will be living in the Fort when he grows-up :)

There were a few more exchanges, but then I hear him say in his best southern, redneck, good ole' country boy accent....

"So do you think your Rootin Tootin 250 can beat my Urban G Cadillac?"

Me: "Jacob, what is Urban G?"

Jacob: "Urban Gansta."

Oh lordy...someone please help me!

What's the pity-party all about?

This week started off a little shaky for me. I’ve been a little emotional to begin with, but I was in tears Monday night as I sat in the kitchen writing Ellie’s BGL’s (blood glucose levels) in our log book to show to the endocrinologist the following day. Poor Todd...he was at work and trying to deal with my meltdown the best he could, but there wasn’t much he could do or say to pacify me at that moment. He was doing his best to let me know what a good Mommy he thinks I am, but I wasn’t having it.

As I was logging the numbers in and looking back at the last few months, it just seemed Ellie’s BGL’s were all over the place and I was certain that her A1C level (average of your blood sugar control over a 3-4 month period) was going to come back high. The higher the A1C, the higher your risk of diabetes complications. So...I was having somewhat of a "breakdown" moment. My heart was hurting and I felt like I was failing my daughter. Being a Mommy is such a big responsibility in itself, but being a Mommy to a child with diabetes can sometimes be a little overwhelming. My daughter’s future health relies on me and I just didn’t feel I was cutting it. I was having my own self pity party, but I guess we are all entitled to one every now and then. Thank goodness my kids were outside playing or they would of thought I was nuts.

Ellie and I went to her appointment yesterday and it went well...very well. I walked out of that office feeling much more confident in myself as a Mommy and with a stronger determination to do my best (now I just have to get my husband to let me quit my job and I'll have a lot more time to focus). We had a really good, long talk with Dr. Damian yesterday and I am so happy we found her. She sat and talked to me and Ellie for a good hour about BGL’s, meals, insulin injections, etc... She always reassures me that diabetes is a science and I'm doing my best. It’s not an easy job to maintain perfect BGL’s and although it would be nice, there is no set plan. We will forever be adjusting and tweaking, so we just have to figure out a good daily plan for the present time and make the necessary adjustments.

I am happy to report that Ellie finally gained some weight and grew a little taller since our last visit. Plus, her A1C went from 8.4 to 7.8, so I was VERY happy to hear that! The goal for people with diabetes is 7 or less, so although we are still a tad high, we are making progress. The doctor seemed pretty happy with that number, so it made me feel much better.

Everyone in that doctor’s office absolutely adores Ellie and is so excited to see her when she walks in that door. The doctor tells Ellie all the time that she is their "favorite patient." They call her "Ellie-Minnelli" and my "favorite patient who is always smiling." Last time we were there Ellie gave them a picture that she drew for them and they had it posted right on the wall.

After Ellie and I walked out of the doctor’s office hand in hand, I thought to myself...I’m not the one who has to endure those everyday pricks and pokes, so I need to get over my pity party. For everything that Ellie tolerates on a daily basis, she is a pretty "happy-go-lucky" girl and for that reason, I think I’m pretty darn lucky!

I love you, Elle Belle!

What a game!

This is going to be quick because I'm at work and shouldn't really be on here, but I think I'm still experiencing a rush from the baseball game last night. What an exciting and thrilling game for the Rays team last night. It probably wasn't one of the finest performances by my favorite Rays player, or the perfection he seeks, but hey....we can't always be on our "A" game, right? Jacob still played well, just had somewhat of a difficult night on the pitchers mound.

To make a long story short, we were trailing pretty much the entire game (with at least a 3 run margin, if not more) and came back in the last inning to win the game 11-10 (or was it 10-9?). It was very exciting and we couldn't of ended the night on a better note...at least the majority of us felt that way anyways.

As we were walking to the car, Jacob seemed a little bummed despite the team's win...most likely a little down about his own personal performance. Just as he sat down in the car and was getting ready to shut the door, somebody reached their hand in and pulled the door back open...it was the umpire from our game. He looked at Jacob and said, "you need to relax, pace yourself out there on the mound...you are the one in control" and he gave Jacob one of the game balls and walked away. A little taken back by this gentleman's gesture, Jacob only had a brief second to say "thank you" before the man disappeared into the dark parking lot. Jacob just stared at the ball and then turned to me and said, "that was nice."

We've all heard that famous quote that baseball is 90% mental...admittingly, a little something I think my son could work on. Sometimes I wished I could instill in him that "perfection and baseball do not mix" and that the essence of being human is that one does not seek perfection. I certainly want Jacob to strive to be his best, but he has to learn that he can't be perfect out on that baseball diamond all the time.

To my little man - don't be so tough on yourself... just strive for continuous improvement, rather than for perfection. As the famous baseball player, Tug McGraw, once said, "Ya gotta believe!" I believe in you, Jacob...now you need to believe in yourself!

XOXO,

Mommy

He made me proud!

Most of you know that Jacob was hit by a wild pitch at his game on Saturday and suffered a pretty big bruise. I was at the concession stand when it all went down, so I didn't see it happen (which was probably a good thing). I came around the corner to see a player laying on the field surrounded by coaches, but I didn't really stop to think it could of been my son. Needless to say, I was very proud in the way Jacob handled it and I think his Daddy would of been proud, too. We all know he isn't the toughest of the bunch, but he showed me on Sat. that he's getting tougher. He got right back up (although you could tell he was hurting) and continued to play ball without shedding even one tiny tear. Here are a few shots of the progression of his bruise over the first day or two. I haven't taken one recently-

Yikes!

***UPDATE: Here is today's picture...

Just a quick post...

of a couple cute pictures from our day at the beach. I took last Friday off so I could spend at least one day with my kiddos on their Spring Break. We went back and forth on what we wanted to do, but we decided to take in a little more sun and some time at the beach. I took these with my phone, so they aren't very clear, but some of them are pretty funny so I thought I would share.

Here is a picture of Ellie in her new Easter bathing suit from MaMaw-

Some of these were pretty funny, but I don't have time to load them all. Here is headless Nate-

A few more of the kids playing in the sand-

It turned out to be a fabulous day, but unfortunately, Spring Break is over and we are back to the daily grind.

Lots of birthday wishes sent "across the pond!"

Aunt Essie, a little something from the kids-



And a little something from me-

One of life's special gifts;
Is to have a sister-in-law like you;
You're such an awesome person;
With a heart and soul so true~

I enjoy being in your presence;
And on you I can always depend;
You are more to me than a sister-in-law;
You are also a very good friend~

I truly do enjoy your presence and look forward to spending time with you and all the gang in June. We hope you have had a wonderful day with your family. Please know that we were thinking of you and so wishing we could be there with you to help you celebrate, but we'll look forward to celebrating a couple of birthdays in June!

Lots of Love!
XOXO,
T,J,J & little E

Kind of a scary start to Spring Break...

but it got better.

We had a dramatic evening on White Oak Lane last night and as a result of same, this was the sleeping arrangements at my house...



I must of picked Ellie up and put her back in her own bed at least twice last night, to only feel her laying by my feet again an hour or two later. I finally gave up and just let her stay. A short time later, child #1 showed up at the side of our bed begging and pleading for a teeny, tiny space on the edge of the bed to lay down. Todd was calm at first...

Daddy: "Jacob, there is no room, but you can grab a pillow and sleep on the floor."

Jacob: "Daddy, please...I’m scared. I only need a little space to sleep on."

This conversation went on for a few minutes. Todd wasn’t giving in (because there simply was no room) and Jacob wasn’t giving up, so eventually Todd got a little frustrated. After a few more exchanges, I heard...

Daddy: "Jacob, grow up!"

Jacob: "Daddy, I will....tomorrow," said with such innocence and sweetness in his voice.

I know he’s going to be 12, but the Mommy in me just wouldn’t let his aching heart suffer any longer, so I got up and let the 2 little ones sleep with their Daddy so they could receive the comfort they were so desperately seeking....and then I curled up in Ellie’s bed.

Earlier that evening, the kids were outside playing with their friends as they enjoyed the wonderful spring weather and the start of Spring Break. I had just plopped down on the couch to watch Dancing with the Stars when Ellie came running into the house saying, "Mommy, I think Michelle is having a seizure." I jumped up and ran outside, as J & E bolted by me and headed in the opposite direction straight for Jacob’s room...where they nervously remained until we had the chance to come back and talk to them. Thankfully Todd was already outside and by Michelle’s side (doing what he does best) when I got there. It was a pretty scary moment for me, so I could only imagine what my sensitive kids were thinking and feeling when they saw their friend jump roping one second and then fall head first on the concrete and suffer an epileptic seizure the next. We just sat by her side and waited for the ambulance to arrive.

However, on a brighter note, it all turned out okay and I am happy to report that Michelle is home and doing just fine, which I think helped my kids feel at ease again.

One thing I can say that I’ve learned about myself - I actually can remain pretty calm in a stressful situation like that...which is something I wasn’t always sure about. I will admit that the calmness Todd brought to the situation helped me remain calm as well.

Whew, what a start to the week. Please...no more nights like that.

Easter Part II

I was a little tired last night, so today I wanted to share a conversation held yesterday between the ever-so-loving Harrison sibilings. We were driving home from the beach yesterday when Jacob and Ellie started arguing over some silly puddy that Ellie got from the Easter Bunny. I'm not exactly sure how it started, but this is how part of the conversation went:

E: "Mommy, Jacob won’t give me my silly puddy back."

J: "But you gave it to me."

E: "Yeah, but I want it back now."

I'm not quite sure what Jacob said next, but if I had to guess, it was probably a little antagonistic...

E: "You better give it back or else I will..."

I didn’t catch the end of that sentence either, but I'm quite certain it had something to do with her promising to do something destructive to Jacob’s silly puddy when she got back home.

J: "Mommy, tell her she can’t do that."

Meanwhile, I just sat in the passenger seat as if I didn't hear a word...ignoring the backseat requests for a Mommy intervention. I was hoping that they would work it out on their own, but that wasn't working so much and the conversation continued on...

J: "You don’t like me, do you?"

E: "I’m not going to answer that question right now."

J: "Why don’t you like me?"

The bickering continued...Ellie wanted her silly puddy back and Jacob wasn't giving it up since he felt his sister willingly gave it to him only a few seconds earlier. Not really something a Mommy would be proud of, but I guess her desire to share was gone in a matter of a nanosecond. I’m not even sure what happened next because I was trying my best to tone it all out, but then I heard the little one raise her voice and proclaim (amongst a few small tears)...

E: "NO, I don’t like you. THERE...I answered your question!"

I know it doesn’t sound very nice, but we all know children say things they don’t mean and it made me chuckle under my breath. My two can get along incredibly well one minute and then drive each other crazy mad the next. I guess I can relate since I, too, had the pleasure of experiencing many sibling showdowns. I can remember riding in the backseat of my parents car and complaining..."Mom, she won’t stop touching me.." as if that was even possible when all 3 of us are practically sitting on top of one another, shoulder to shoulder, in the small backseat.

On a side note, here is a quote I read in a magazine the other day-

"Siblings are the people we practice on, the people who teach us about fairness and cooperation and kindness and caring - quite often the hard way."

One day my kids will understand that, but until then, I'm sure I'll experience many more sibling showdowns.

Happy Easter!

It was a nice relaxing day filled with...

basket surprises from the Easter Bunny;

basket surprises from Grandma's;

family time - minus Daddy :(

hours of sunny beach time;

neighborhood eggs hunts;

3 egg hunts for Ellie;

beautiful sunny sky;

and much more!

all of the above also included....

eggs;

candy;

sugar-free candy;

lots of beach sand;
prize egg money for Ellie;

and a little sunburn for myself!

It's a little late and I'm ready for bed,

but just thought I would post a few quick pictures to share-

two of my favorite people...

Then they decided to bury themselves in the sand-

Then....my son got a tad comfy and did this...

All it takes is for that boy to stop moving for a few simple minutes

and give his body a chance to relax and he will fall right to sleep...anywhere!

People were walking by pointing and laughing at him,

as he took a good 20 minute nap literally under the sand.

I couldn't believe it...he was fast asleep!

Okay, here is a picture that I wasn't going to initally post,

but since it's only family that I share this blog with,

I guess I'll share the picture.

I was snapping a few pictures of the kids

when Jacob took a brief break on the towel.

Granted, he was sitting still on the towel,

but he was still moving his arm/hand/finger

up and and down in the sand when I got this shot....

(you might have to click on the picture to get a good look)

Seriously, I know I've been complaining about him hitting the pre-teen years,

but he's not really shooting me a bird...or at least I don't think he was.

He seemed pretty innocent when I asked him about it.

I didn't even notice it until I got home and was thumbing through my shots of the day.

And lastly, a picture of some of the crew after the last egg hunt:

Happy Easter Everyone!

XOXO

Mommy and Daddy night out-

We went to eat at a new Tiki restaurant on the inlet and the view was absolutely amazing. The drinks were also really cheap, but the wait was really lloonnnggg and the menu prices seemed a little steep, so we ended up going to the Original Tiki in downtown FP. However, I wanted to share a shot of that awesome view we got to enjoy for about an hour before the sun went down...

It's views like this that make me happy that I live near the beach.

Pocahontas Part II

So, I thought I would have a good follow-up story as to how that headband became virtually horizontal on Ellie's head, but unfortunately I don't. I actually think she's a tad embarrassed by it, but here is how our conversation went:

Me: "Ellie, so what happened with your pictures?"

E: Nothing said, but a little grumble under her breath.

Me: "No, seriously, Ellie, how did your headband get on your head like that?"

E: "I don't know."

Me: "Did the photographer put it on that way?"

E: "I don't know."

Me: "Did your teacher?"

E: "I don't know."

Me: "Did a friend do it, or tell you to put it on that way?"

E: "I don't know."

Me: "Ellie, come on...you have to remember how it got on your head like that."

E: "Mommy, those pictures were taken a long time ago. I don't remember."

My personal opinion is the "I don't know" answer that I kept getting from the little one was short for "I don't want to discuss it." Here's my conclusion...I think the headband came off or slipped off somehow and when Ellie went to put it back on....

it didn't quite...
make it back up...
to the top of her head.

Now how she didn't feel it pressing on her forehead like that...I'm going to go with Ellie's phrase and say "I don't know," but that's the story I'm going with.

On the other hand, sometimes the mystery behind the story is better left unsaid, and I guess that's how this one will remain....

a mystery! Sigh....

We have a new princess in the house...

and her name is Pocahontas. Okay, I have to admit I had a good chuckle when I saw this, but on the other hand, I don't know what in the world these people were thinking!

Ellie told me this morning that her spring pictures were in, so I guess Todd picked them up when he dropped her off at school this morning. This is the text I got shortly after...

T: What the hell? Who let her do this? Who is she...Pocahontas?

And then this is the picture that popped up on my phone....



HA! I promise you, this is NOT how I sent my daughter to school, but I sure would like to know who decided to change her attire. All I know is she had the headband on the correct way when I dropped her off that morning. What the heck?

I guess I'll have to order a few pictures just so we can laugh at it years from now. Would anyone else like to place an order? hehe

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

I had good intentions to take a picture of Ellie today all decked out in her green attire so that I could post it for my "Happy Green Day" blog, but in typical me form, the thought was there, but I didn't quite put it into action...at least the way I was hoping. By the time I got home from Jacob's game, made something for him to eat and helped him with his homework, one exhausted little girl crawled into her bed and fell fast asleep. I guess her day, which was filled with scavenger hunts and leprechauns, was a little too much excitement for her. It's definitely not what I had in mind, but I guess this will have to be my picture of the day:

One worn-down, pooped-out and drained little girl who jumped into bed and fell asleep before she even took her shamrock hair down.

Happy St. Patrick's Day to all my loved ones!


XOXO

Another great success!

Yesterday was a great day for lots of reasons. It was a beautiful day in sunny South Florida and we took part in the Walk to Cure Diabetes in Downtown Stuart along the side with many great family and friends. Although there is still a little time to donate, we topped last year's goal and have collected over $1,700 in donations for JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation):

Way to go, TEAM ELLIE!

Here's a picture of some of those important people that made that possible:



This year's fundraising was a great success because of many reasons-

The many people who were so kind to generously donate to an important cause we find so dear to our heart;

My Mom, who put a lot of effort into our fundraising event and paid for all those specially designed t-shirts out of her own pocket, yet every dime of the money donated by every kind soul went straight to the cause;

My Uncle Ti-Ti, who spent the time designing our very special shirts;

All the wonderful people who took the time out on Sat. to join us in our walk and support the cause once again;

My Mom, Uncle/Aunt and sisters who find this cause just as important as I and recruited donations from their own friends, most who don't even know Ellie;

and many more reasons....

The pics below will lead you through our walk on Sat. I had every intention to set them up in a storyline, but it became too much of a hassle to move all the pictures around and I gave up. So, here's the pictures from our day in no certain order:

First, one of my favorites...Daddy and his little girl:



Two of those special people I mentioned above:



Sorry Ti-Ti, but this is the only picture I have of Aunt Julie, so this is the one that I had to share...hehe-



Here are some of our dear friends who were with us every step of the way through donations and our walk:

Aunt Tonya trying to be funny, but not real sure what she's trying to say here:

Grandpa Bruce, Uncle Mike and Aunt Angie:

Ellie's bestest friend who she absolutely adores, and who is always there to support Ellie, diabetes or not:

Grandpa Bruce, Grandma Chris and Aunt Jackie:

And, last but not least, a picture of our special girl with Rodney, who was the winner of the entire race. I forget the exact time, but I think it was 19:38...or something like that.

Again, I can't begin to express our gratitude and how thankful we are for each and every one of you. We thank you all for your love and support through these crazy, sometimes difficult, times. We will continue to fight the fight and find the cure so that our daughter can live a life free of the many pricks and shots she endures every single day and the life that we all take for granted.

As I've said many times before, I'm so proud of my little girl. Ellie, you keep on fighting and smiling. I have great faith that we will find a cure in your lifetime. We love you, sweet girl!

Thanks again everyone!

XOXO

P.S. Todd already has shirt ideas for next year. His thought....a camo shirt (he says it can be pink and green) that says something along the lines of "hunting for the cure."

It's finally Friday...

and this is what we have in store for the weekend:

Saturday-
8:00 arrive at baseball field;
9:00 baseball game for the big one;
11:30 t-ball game for the little one;
kids going to the movies with MawMaw and perhaps some Mommy/Daddy time; and if they are up for it, maybe some good ole' Frank & Al's pizza, beer and wine with some dear friends.

Sunday-
sleep in...just a little...please, honey?
10:00 baseball practice;
then off to an afternoon Mets game...
sitting on the berm;
watching a little baseball;
soaking in the sun (hopefully);
watching my little ones play; and
enjoying the company of some more good friends.

Sounds like a good plan...don't you agree?

It's the last weekend of the fair. So far, Jacob has already been to the fair 4 times, the rest of us only 3. It was lots of fun and some good family fun that I think we needed and which included...

wild and "getting older" rides for the pre-teen;
a "Spanish" swing ride that Ellie rode once and wouldn't get on again (I'm still not sure why she thought it was a "Spanish" ride);
a kids bungee jumping experience that Ellie so loved;
a Charlie Daniels Concert;
lots of pigs, steers and more pigs;
Clydesdale horses and Bud the Dalmation;
school exhibits;
many slices of pizza; and
even a fried Oreo or two.

Good times, but I think we are officially faired out.

Happy Weekend, Everyone!

Random Thoughts of the Day-

Don't ask why, but just some aimless, off-the-wall and random thoughts for the day. I simply thought I would switch it up a little.

1. This whole weight loss thing is disheartening. Granted, I don't exercise every day like I did when I lost all my weight the first time, but I still get to the gym or run close to 4 or 5 days a week and I've lost maybe a pound or two in probably three weeks. What the heck is that all out? I guess it's a sign of getting older, but it's really discouraging...

2. As much as I love them, I truly believe I have two of the sloppiest children. Where did I go wrong?

3. I'm almost 40 and sometimes I feel like I'm back in high school. Come on people, do away with the drama...it causes too much stress in your life.

4. Speaking of high school, our 20th reunion is rapidly approaching and I'm not where I want to be weight-wise, which is discouraging...did I mention that?

5. I use to be such a "neat-freak," but it now takes so much work to keep this house in a some-what of an organized, coordinated and put-together state. I seriously need a maid!

6. Due to this crazy economy, our favorite neighbors, the Barnett's, told us today that they were regrettably forced to put their house on the market, and we are really bummed about that! Does someone want to move? I don't want some nutty neighbors like the other ones that currently live across the street.

7. This is one that I've always had a very difficult time understanding, but why it takes so much effort, or why do I feel we always have to be the ones making that effort, to keep in touch with some people? I just don't get it...

Okay, let's get to some positives:

1. After a little more focus and a little less PS3 time, my son is working hard and is bringing up those grades that he thought we were being so tough about. He has brought 3 of his 4 "B's" back up to "A's," where they should be. Good job, Bubbe! See...we knew you could do it.

2. I was a little nervous at first, but we are doing better in our Walk to Cure Diabetes fundraiser. A big thanks to my Mom, Angie, Tonya, Uncle Ti-Ti and Aunt Julie who have recruited more donations from friends, some who don't even know Ellie. These people have no idea how much that means to us and what a difference they are making. According to my calculations, we are over the $1,400 mark. I think we may be a hundred or two shy of our goal last year (which we got a Bronze Award for), but we still have time...

3. Despite their sloppiness, I have smart, funny, kind and loving children! I feel so lucky, despite the pre-teen years I think my son has officially hit. Oh goodness, please help me when my other one hits this stage. I don't know if Todd or I will ever be prepared for that....

4. Ellie's sugars have actually been pretty good lately. I hope I can keep them that way, as long as Daddy doesn't send Ellie to school without her shot (just teasing, honey, I know you felt horrible!).

5. So very fortunate and blessed that this nasty economy hasn't affected us in the ways it has many others. Even if I asked for a raise and didn't get one, I guess I should be lucky I have a job, right?

6. Soooo fortunate for my Mom who has always been such a big help when we needed it, and in more ways then one ;)

7. Despite my weight-loss struggle, I'm healthy. I had lots of bloodwork done (glucose, thyroid, cholestrol, CBC, etc..) and everything came back perfect! I guess my pancreas is doing a-okay. On the other hand, I was hoping my thyroid was out of whack and that's why I was having problems losing weight, ha! Not really....

8. I have a very supportive and loving family.

9. Last, but certainly not least, a husband who...
loves our children;
loves his job, which provides for us financially;
loves me, which provides for me emotionally;
feels parenting is a team effort, thus, helpful in many ways a lot of husbands are not;
ALWAYS makes sure our needs are taken care of before his own, which is one of the things that I truly love about him;
and many more....

I could go on, but I just realized it's 11:00 and I need to really go to bed...6:00 will be here soon enough.

XOXO,
J

Hello March!

Man, I can't believe it's March already. Where have the past few months gone?

Well, it was a weekend packed full of ....get this...no baseball, but just some good ole' family-fun fair activities....even though I'm dragging today as a result of it.

On Sat., we went to my firm barbeque with family in tow, despite the freezing, cold, wet and muddy weather. The barbeque was okay, but I thoroughly enjoyed The Charlie Daniels Band Concert. The kids elected to skip the concert and take part in the fun rides at the fairway with their friends, which probably was a good choice on their part. I don’t know if they would of made it through the entire concert without me hearing, "Mommy, I’m ready to go." On the flip side, I think all the adults (Mom, Uncle Ti-Ti, Aunt Julie and I) enjoyed watching the fiddler play. It was his first show since his stroke, which I didn’t even know he had, but nonetheless, it was a great show.

Todd seemed a little sad he missed it, so he came home Sunday morning all ready to hit the fair and in my mind I'm thinking...again? But, I know he doesn't like to miss out on stuff, so I put on my happy face and away we went. Ellie had already made plans to go to a polo match with MawMaw, and although she initially couldn’t decide what to do... polo match or fair, fair or polo match... she decided to go with her initial plans and she went to the polo match. Even though we missed her in our "family fun-day," it sounds like she had a good time and even got an autograph by John Walsh. She also likes to tell the story of how she stepped in "poop" while stomping around and replacing the grass divots, despite the previous warnings by Uncle Ti-Ti. Everytime I hear the story I think about that scene in Pretty Woman.

So...Todd, Jacob and I took off for the fair around 1:00 and didn’t get home until 9:00. It was an absolutely beautiful day to spend at the fair. Todd and I checked out all the fair exhibits and walked around as we soaked in the beautiful, sunny, cool and cloud-free weather...enjoying a little "parent" time. Jacob, on the other hand, hit the fairway with his friends and we were lucky if we saw him for an hour out of the 8 hours we were there. However, I was a little freaked out by him roaming the fair with all those creepy "carni's," but I reluctantly agreed to let him go as long as he checked in frequently, and probably more frequently than Jacob wished. But, this brings me to my next subject...my little boy is growing up waaayyyy to fast. Todd and I were discussing it and can remember the day when that kid wouldn’t leave our side and we had to push him to be more socialable, but now I want to reel him back in. It truly makes me a little sad, but I guess that’s just part of watching your kids grow and flourish into the wonderful people that mine are becoming. If I could, I would go back in time just a tad, maybe a year or so, and freeze time. Can anyone help me with that? I can say this....we certainly better take in what little time we can get with that boy as I'm sure those minimal hours will turn into minutes and before we know it, he's going to be a doctor. No wait...that won't happen, maybe the President? Or perhaps even a fireman? Well, I don't know if that will work either since it involves injuries and blood, which we all know he can't handle. Either way, and whatever he decides to do in life, I'm sure he'll make his parents very proud.

I hope everyone has a good week!

My brother "ercs" me-

Okay, here's the story behind that title. Ellie's class read a story about a robot, so her teacher asked each student to write a short essay on why they would want a robot. Here is Ellie's story (minus the teachers corrections), which is framed on the fridge:

"If i had a robot I would want him to help with school work and I would like him to play with me at my brothers practice. And would like him to meet all my friends, and help me with my chors. And when my brother ercs me he will make him stop."

Oh....the brotherly and sisterly love...I just had to share.

I'm looking forward to a day at the fair tomorrow with my two favorite little people, minus Daddy who has to work. My firm is having a barbeque at the fair, with free admission to the fair and free admission to the Charlie Daniel's Band concert...."the devil went down to Georgia, he was looking for a soul to steal, he was in a bind, cause he was way behind, and he was willing to make a deal." That's probably the only song my kids will know, and that, my folks, is thanks to Rock Band.

Happy weekend everyone!

I never thought I would say this...

but I'm actually a little sad today. Although I had an odd feeling this was going to happen sooner or later, I guess I wished it was the latter. Team Worth is officially dissolved and no longer a team. I woke up to an email from Joe this morning informing us of this news and I have to admit, I got a little teary-eyed. Yes, I may of griped every now and then about the non-stop, chaotic, hectic and crazy schedule we had, but to know it's really over...it makes me a little somber and heartbroken. For the most part, Jacob played ball with a lot of these boys for a couple of years now and has developed long-standing friendships with a few of them, so to know that they are all going in different directions makes me a little heavyhearted.

Well, even though I know this isn't something he'll probably even see or read, but a special thanks to Joe for the dedication, devotion and hard-work he put into a team that I believe he had a lot of faith in. Believe me, I know it takes a lot of work to put a travel team together. I also know my son has thoroughly enjoyed playing ball for you, and even though I know he can go play for another team, it just won't be the same...

Sigh...

Always Sisters, Forever Friends~

So, we have yet another Feb. birthday and although we celebrated this special day a little early (as you will see from the pictures below), we certainly couldn't forget to post a little something for our dear Aunt Tonya.





Here are a few quotes that I wrote down and wanted to post on this day:

Growing up, sisters are probably the most competitive relationship within a family, but once the sisters are grown, it becomes the strongest relationship.

God made us sisters, but our hearts made us friends.

Birthdays are good for you....statistics show that the people who have the most live the longest.

Well, baby sister, you are officially 34 today. You should be very proud at everything you've accomplished in life already, yet I feel the best is still yet to come. Although we aren't there with you, we are thinking of you and hope all your birthday dreams and wishes comes true.

And, we couldn't do this for Angie and not do it for you, too, so here goes....



Happy 34th Birthday! We love and miss you!

XOXO,
J,T,J & little E

Oh Lordy, is she really 40?

It's not just another birthday, it's the BIG 4 - 0! This post is dedicated to my big sis, and I have to say, you are officially "over the hill!" Just kidding. I guess I shouldn't say that because I'm not that far behind you. Turning 40 is certainly a big milestone. I think some might see the Big 4-0 as the entry to middle age, but isn’t it also true that the 40 is the new 30? As you get ready to celebrate your big day, just remember that you are old enough to have learned from your mistakes, yet young enough to chart a new direction in your life. Remember...it’s all about the journey.

Happy 40th Birthday to our big sis, sis-in-law and Aunt.

Here's a video just for you on your special day (sorry, it's turned side-ways, but that's what you get when you need to be out the door by 8:00 and it's already 8:05):



Hope you have a happy, joyful, fun-filled, special day. We wished we could be there to help you celebrate, but you are still in our hearts!

Lots of love,
J, T, J & little E

I finally got it-

I pinned him down long enough to grab a picture. I rushed home from work in order to be home by 5:15 so Todd and Jacob could leave and try to get to the ballpark by 5:30. I didn't want Ellie to have to go sit out in the cold longer than absolutely necessary, although I don't think she would of cared since she was excited to see her "best-friend" whose brother plays on Jacob's team. So, needless to say, the boys were in a hurry to get out the door when I got home. However, I insisted on grabbing a few quick snapshots of my favorite little guy.

So, here's the first of our 2010 spring season baseball pic:



A full body shot, although he was trying to be funny and amuse his Momma. I told him I was going to post this...



a better shot, although he's still slouching...



and we had to take one of the "cool," or as Daddy says, "tight" new cleats...



If I didn't know any better, I would think that Todd was the one playing baseball. Granted, Jacob picked out these shoes, but I think Todd was more excited to see them arrive in the mail. And, yes, you read that right...we had to order these on-line because the sports stores around here don't have the latest "cool" styles in stock. And someone please remind me again...who is the one playing baseball? Would that be Jacob or Todd? Sigh...

Okay, off to watch my favorite little man play some ball. Go Rays!

We are back on the crazy ride!

It's that time of year again. Our so-called sports "break" certainly didn't last long enough...not for me anyways. The spring baseball season is under way and we'll be back to spending every night at the ballfield, or just about every night. I've already made my husband promise that we will commit to having more "us" time than we've had in the past, so we'll see how that goes.

So this year we decided to sign the little one up for t-ball to see how she liked it, and after Opening Ceremonies today, it sounds like she LOVES it.

Here is the first official picture of Ellie in her t-ball uniform...yes, she truly is under that hat:

It was so much fun to watch those little kids run around out there today. For some reason, I don't recall it being quite this funny when Jacob played t-ball. We had kids running every which way and tackling the balls on the ground as if it was a fumble in a football game. That's no joke...there were kids literally piled on the ground. We had one kid hit the ball and instead of running to first base, he decided to run after the ball in the field...with the bat. We had another kid hit the ball off the tee and run to 3rd instead of 1st. It was a very comical show, but more importantly, Ellie had a blast. I think she was most proud of the groundball she stopped on the pitchers mound and then threw to first. It was a good throw, but unfortunately, the 1st baseman didn't catch it. There weren't too many balls that were actually caught out there today.

At the end of the day, Ellie said, "Mommy, sorry I keep talking about it, but I had a lot of fun. I liked it much better than cheerleading." I'm so happy she enjoyed it. Will we have another softball player in the family? Only time will tell...

Sorry, guys, but no picture of #1. I will be sure to get one next time. He's hard to catch now-a-days. I pretty much see him during his game; otherwise, he's roaming the park with his friends...kind of like what I did when I was his age.

That's all I have for today. Have a great weekend and enjoy the BIG game tomorrow. I'm not really much of a football watchin' fan, but my vote is for the Saints...simply because 1.) they've never won a Super Bowl before and 2.) New Orleans could use a little lift after the devastation they experienced a few years back. I know those aren't really good football reasons, but they are my reasons.

XOXO

2/01/2010

So, that was an important day to our family and shame on me for letting it fly by unnoticed, even if we only missed it by a day. I had thought about it the week before and kept thinking...what special thing could I do? I had good intentions, but in this hectic Harrison life, it flew right by me. Yes, 02/01/09 was when Ellie was initially diagnosed with diabetes, so 2/1/10 was her one year anniversary and she kindly reminded me of that on 2/2/10. "Mommy, isn’t this when I first got diabetes?" She knew because we had talked about it a few days before, but I had to look it up on the internet and confirm that 2/1/09 was indeed the day the SuperBowl was held and that is a day that I will NEVER forget.

So, we chatted about the last year and what we were doing at that same time one year ago...

M: "Ellie, at this time last year we were in PSL Hospital just learning what was making you so sick."

E: "Yeah, Mommy, I had tubes hanging out of my arms and I was scared."

Thinking back, I could only imagine how scared that precious girl really was, but boy was she full of surprises. To this day, she continues to amaze me with her resilience and how she’s taken this hard life change all in stride. I don’t know that I, as an adult, could of handled it any better. Without even knowing it, I think she's taught us all a few life lessons.

Even though it’s been a very challenging year, I am very proud of my little girl and how she has stood so strong and brave and has continued to fight this disease day by day, with very few complaints. Not only does she have to face the everyday challenges of managing her disease, but she also has to deal with the lack of awareness from the general public. I have heard numerous stories how she goes to the clinic at school to check her sugar and the kids sit and stare at her, or say, "what are you doing?" I know they are just curious little kids, but I’m sure it gets old.

There are times when I still get mad or upset, especially if I feel like I’m failing her if I can’t get her sugars at a level I’m happy with, but I have to remind myself that diabetes is not our whole life. It is never easy and we all feel a range of emotions, but that is normal and those emotions will pass and change with time.

Biomedical research has cured many diseases and has helped many diseases become survivable, so we, as a family, will do whatever it takes to make sure diabetes is the next disease on that "cured" list. With that being said, please support us and join us in our walk, or make a small donation in support of "Ellie’s Team." For those of you who have already donated, some we have never even met, THANK YOU! Every little cent counts and we couldn't do it without you.

Lastly, Ellie, as I’ve told you over and over, Mommy and Daddy are soooo proud of you. You are such a beautiful, smart, funny and kind, precious little girl, but most of all, so VERY brave, courageous, strong and tough as beans. Mommy and Daddy will always, without a shadow of a doubt, be there for you and stand by you every step of the way.

GO TEAM ELLIE!

XOXO,
Mommy & Daddy