TIME IN A BOTTLE

What I Want To Do

2012-02-02T21:22:00.000-05:00

Evelyn's list of what she wants to do...

Age
9 Go camping with my girl scouts
10 Keep being in girl scouts
11 Learn more about football
12 Get a cool cell phone
13 Become a teenager and get a friend like me
14 Make a garden and plant a tree
15 Get a job as a babysitter
16 Get a car and my drivers license
17 Go on a trip with my friend like me
18 Go to college and learn about Art
19 Keep studying Art
20 Make a stupendous painting
21 Show my painting
22 Get hired as an artist
23 Get a cat
24 Paint my cat, draw my cat
25 Explore and be ADVENTUROUS!

Got to love a 9 year old with a life plan! Hope she doesn't turn into one of those crazy cat people since her dad won't let her have one.

0-9 in a blink of an eye

2012-01-28T05:00:00.006-05:00

In the blink of an eye you have grown into an amazing young girl that I am so proud of. You have blossomed into such a sweet, caring, creative, independent beautiful girl. I have such hopes and dreams for you, all being that you continue to stay on this path that you have created. I feel like you are leading the way and I am here learning from you. You make me prouder everyday!

*Stay true to yourself*

*Be what you want to be, not what others think you should be*

*Shine*

*Never forget to let loose, be silly, jump in puddles & dance dance dance*

*Keep your amazing attitude*

*Continue to love and only see what's inside and not their exterior*

*Never hold back, always communicate how you feel*

(Such a strong and meaningful quote from The Help that I couldn't pass up posting it)

You is Kind

You is Smart

You is Important...

Happy Birthday Evelyn!

The Rock 2012

2012-01-26T12:20:00.000-05:00

This is the 4th year we have painted the rock in front of Evelyn's school. Although Evelyn was disappointed it's not the usual rock we paint, she was happy with the outcome. Can't believe in two days you will be 9!

JDRF at the Checkers

2012-01-16T23:43:00.000-05:00

JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) sponsors an event with the Charlotte Checkers to help get families involved and learn more about what they can do to help. This was our second year attending. The girls had a great time playing while the grown ups walked around and talked to other families. In this video they are dancing with the Checkmates. Evelyn is in the pink sweatshirt, Addy in her Team Bubba and Bunny's Brigade shirt and their friend Madison in the polka-dot sweater.

The girls had such a great time and a lot of that was due to this sweet girl, Madison. She was just diagnosed in November at the age of 7. She is the daughter of a friend of mine and Evelyn was in Daisies with her. Evelyn also has been in class with Madison's brother for 3 years. It is so awful that she and Addy have to go through life with this condition, but I'm so glad they have each other.

Showing off their pumps

At lunch before the game

Making their posters

Type 1 kids and their siblings and the Checkmates

Bubba and the checkmates

Madison and Evelyn with The Checkmates

I think this was my favorite part of the day. We walked up to a crowded area where there was a race car and a bunch of drivers and onlookers. The girls jumped the line and went around to the car. As I was telling them to come back and wait their turn, a driver said, "No, they are good, do you want to get in?" Next thing I know they are picking up Madison and putting her in. Little did I know that the driver is a young guy named Ryan Reed, a Type 1 himself. So young, so sweet and doing great things for JDRF. Each of the girls took turns in the car and Ryan spent time with each of them. But the time he spent with Madison and how he talked with her was so refreshing. I'm sure he won't remember, but I know I won't forget and I'm sure my girls or Madison won't either. Looks like we may become race fans after all!

http://ryanreedracing.com/

Looking at Ryan Reeds car

Addy and Ryan Reed

Evelyn's turn

Her game face (the red dot lets everyone know she has type 1)
A bribe of popcorn so she doesn't continually beg for this>

Chicken Dance!

Chuck the Puck

Excuse me while I rant

2012-01-16T14:40:00.000-05:00

Having a child diagnosed with type 1 diabetes is heartbreaking and frustrating. Truthfully, I was ignorant to the disease. I didn't realize there are two kinds of diabetes. When Addy got sick and doctors confirmed she had Type 1 Juvenile Diabetes, I became a overprotective mother that found herself getting angry at people who didn't understand the disease. People would say things like:

"she will grow out of it"

"all she does is have to take a pill right?"

"I'm sorry you are going through this, but its really not that bad, its not like it is life threatening"

The best one was when a friend of Evelyn's asked her mother why Addy had to wear a pump. Her mother in return told her that "she ate too much bad food and that she can stop wearing the pump when she starts eating healthier".

..............................(Let me pause while I calm down and wipe the tears)......................................

But really, how would I expect people to understand what Type 1 Diabetes was if I didn't know it existed until it was in our face smiling back up at us? Ok, maybe not smiling. More like crying, laying on the floor, barely speaking, pointing to her stomach in pain, going from the water in the refrigerator straight to the bathroom and not making it, all while staring through us with a a glossy-eyed blank face.

Type 1 is a disease in which your immune system attacks the cells that make insulin, a hormone needed to control blood sugar levels. As a result, your body cannot make insulin. Without insulin, too much sugar stays in your blood. There's no magic pill that can change it or a special diet that can reverse it. It is their new life.

The truth, is I get angry they even call it diabetes. It has such a stigma. A preconceived idea that just change her diet and it can be reversed. Well, it can't. This isn't Type 2 Diabetes. There is NO cure. The ONLY thing is insulin. It is her life saving med. Even a dose of insulin cant give us controlled blood sugar. There are too many other factors: how many carbs she ate, how active she is, how much water she drank, if she is fighting a cold or virus, if she is stressed (yes, believe it) if she is going through hormonal changes, stomach bugs...and the list goes on.

I wish they would change the name of the disease, maybe Pancreas Impairment or Pancreatic Disease. Or better yet, this: (I LOVE IT!!!!)

CRAP stands for "Catastrophic Ruthless Attack on the Pancreas"

It's rumored that someone started a Google bombing campaign to replace Google's normal results for the word CRAP with the ADA page for Type 1 diabetes. This was done as a protest against the ongoing problem that the media has in distinguishing betweenType 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

To quote a top ADA official (name withheld) "If this disease renaming continues we'll be forced to change current medical texts so they now refer to the two primary types of diabetes as CRAP and Type 2. And what happens if someone then decides to rename Type 2 to Number 2? Imagine the confusion."They fail to recognize that many people, including many media people, are already confused so much that they don't even realize there are two main forms of diabetes that are radically different to one another. Perhaps this renaming will clear things up - a bit.

Yes, I like that very much.

Sky Lanterns New Years Eve

2012-01-09T09:02:00.005-05:00

New Years Eve was nice and low key. We went out to dinner with friends then came back to our house and sat around the fire outside. I bought these cool floating lanterns to set off for the New Year. The kids had a great time setting them off and making their wishes for the new year. This will definitely be a new tradition.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4a_PCCJ0vk

Christmas

2012-01-07T23:14:00.001-05:00

Christmas in pictures

On the stairs waiting to come down

Trying to peak

Letter from Santa

Special gift from Santa

Evelyn's reaction to earrings. Not ready for pierced ears yet I guess.

Found one more

Just one of Addy's many faces

E-Pain & A-Pain on the T-Pain & Guitar T-shirt

Christmas Eve

2012-01-04T19:22:00.001-05:00

This year we decided to stay home for the holidays and spend some quality time with the girls. It was sad not to be around family, but also nice just go with the flow of the day and do what we want or nothing at all.
Christmas eve the girls wanted to make cookies for Santa since we hadn't made any this year. They have always want to make a recipe from a Christmas book they love.

After that we went to an early church service at Addy's preschool church. It was a family service geared more toward the kids. It was very cute and kept the girls attention. So glad we went. Then we headed home for a Christmas Happy Hour/Dinner, playing games and letting the girls open two gifts each (one from us that I pick and one gift of their choice) then a walk through the neighborhood in our PJ's to see Christmas lights one last time. The girls had to check out the neighbors countdown clock. Notice the tint of pink in Addy's hair. She decided to turn it red and green right before church (without me knowing). I guess she didn't like it because she washed most of it out before she came downstairs The green came out but the red turned pink and stayed for the festivities.

Kiddie Cocktails

Notice the pink hair

Addy picked a gift from Uncle Tom & Aunt Cheri

Evelyn picked a present from Papa & Grandma

New Christmas PJ's from Mom & Dad

3 hours, 53 min, 20 seconds to go!

Daddy sprinkling hay and sparkles

Twas the Night Before Christmas with Daddy

Bubba finally turns 5

2012-01-04T08:00:00.002-05:00

It does seem like yesterday that we were bringing our sweet 2nd child home from the hospital, but in the same thought, her fourth year seemed to go on and on. Maybe because all of her friends had turned 5 already and she looked like she was older. I don't know, but on the 22nd, she finally turned 5. We hit the road and headed to Asheville for the night. The girls just love to stay in hotels so that was a perfect way to celebrate. Also, a way for me to get to the Grove Park Inn and check out the National Gingerbread House contest. The hotel was the Hotel Indigo and it was pretty standard but they made Addy's stay so sweet. They had a balloon and ribbon on our door and a plate of cookies and candy canes waiting for her. Something so simple, she didn't want to leave the hotel to go eat or sight-see. Just jump on the beds and roll around on the desk chair. Happy 5th Addy!

Addy opening presents

The Grove Park Inn

Lunch time laughter at the Grove Park Terrace

Addy grabbed the camera and started shooting

Time to check out the Gingerbread houses!

Despicable Me

Top 10 Winner

Happy Birthday Bubba!

Addy's Final Christmas Performance

2012-01-03T22:43:00.000-05:00

Since Addy will be going off to Kindergarten in the Fall, she had her last preschool Christmas performance. Bittersweet. And unfortunately, I grabbed my camcorder for it and didn't get any good photos. These are all I salvaged from the lousy point and shoot through the camcorder.

With Lily & Ava

Friends Harper & Lia

Addy and her teacher

Addy with Asst.

I'm doing a little catch up (what's new right?)

Under the Sea

2011-12-18T23:13:00.000-05:00

After years of being second fiddle due to Addy's birthday being so close to Christmas, I finally got my act together and had a birthday party for Addy at the beginning of December. In fact, Evelyn and her already had it planned in the Summer just to make sure it actually took place. I guess planning ahead actually works? If you know me, I'm sure you know that wont happen two years in a row. The girls picked an Under the Sea theme so we had games like pass the mermaid, guess how many sea shells and flip the fish. Cakes by Angela made the most delicious cake I have ever had, and I don't like cake. But this cake, I had two pieces and am craving more.

Mermaid puzzles, rock candy, treasure chests w/chocolate gold

The Clan

in our backyard

2011-12-18T21:33:00.000-05:00

Ok, its not really our backyard. More like woods across the street but it is so close it feels like our backyard. A hike in there is one of the girls favorite things to do. A lot of times they will go with Brian and take a snack to eat on one of the boulders. Sometimes they wont come back for a few hours and I never understood what they could possibly be doing over there for so long. Turns out there are a lot of dares going on during their adventures. "Dare you to jump across that log", "dare you to knock that dead tree down" or "dare you to climb as high as you can up that boulder". After saying "I don't think so" a lot of times, Evelyn quickly told me I could stay home next time and that I was taking all the fun out of their hike. What are moms for, right?

The crazy tree Evelyn named Arthur and Addy says "it's doing yoga"

Yah, thats right, we bad, we bad

Zoom in to the tent. Do you see the aliens looking out of the opening? Crazy!

Daddy doing his dare

Notice anything?

2011-11-13T23:02:00.000-05:00

Do you notice anything different about Bubba-loo?

Return to Treehouse

2011-11-07T07:31:00.000-05:00

As promised to the girls, we returned to Treehouse Vineyards so they can have time to play in the treehouse and run around the grounds. They had a great time and the bonus, Grandma and Grandpa were there with us this time.(original post)

Our Terrific Kid

2011-10-28T10:45:00.000-04:00

Once a month, each classroom picks one child as a Terrific Kid. Each month they pick a different character trait. Of course we are so proud of her, but even happier that others recognize her creativity and imagination. It may be just the boost of confidence she needs. Maybe someday we will be going to her book signing!

After you read this, take a look back when Evelyn got terrific kid in first grade.

TERRIFIC KID

Creativity

From her teacher:

"Evelyn was chosen for our terrific kid because she displays the character trait creativity in the classroom and in her writing daily. She comes up with great creative stories that keep her classmates always wanting to hear more. She gives such creative details that the readers feel like they are there with her in her stories. Evelyn does a great job using her imagination to come up with unique creative stories. Great job Evelyn for showing creativity in our classroom!"

Our Terrific Kid getting a donut with Dad

Back row

Anne Springs Close Greenway

2011-10-24T20:49:00.000-04:00

Tired of the same old corn maze/pumpkin patch/hayride venue, we went searching for something different. Corn mazes just aren't my thing. Sundays are my brain's day off and maneuvering through a corn maze involves too much brain function. We stumbled upon Anne Springs Close Greenway, and a little history. We've passed the entrance to the greenway many times and never knew what it was. We weren't disappointed. Turns out the wagon trail was the first main road or wagon trail east of the Mississippi that ran from Augusta, GA to Philadelphia, PA.

Add a small fall festival with hayrides, pick your own pumpkins (our first real pumpkin patch since we've been in NC), food, etc. All the things one would hope for. But with an amazing backdrop, trails, lakes, barns, animals, cabins and fall foliage. A photographers dream. And wanna-be's like me.

Have you seen my bunny?

2011-08-29T22:54:00.001-04:00

She's been gone for two weeks and two days. I'm doing pretty good, but mommy is feeling sad. She says that she is happy I am able to fall asleep without her but sad she has just disappeared. I probably hid her somewhere when I was playing with my Uncle Dave and forgot where I hid her. Maybe she will show up someday, for my mommy, not me, because I'm fine. Really.

3rd Grade Here We Come!

2011-08-25T08:29:00.000-04:00

Addy and her buddy Emelia

Washed Out

2011-08-14T00:20:00.002-04:00

Aw Mother Nature, why must you rear your ugly self every time we have a JDRF event? After delaying the Charlotte Knights game for over two hours, they finally called the game. What's worse? My poor brother has traveled 7 hours, both times, to get rained out. While waiting inside the stadium, we were able to enjoy a few beers and peanuts and snap these pics with our cell phone.

Uncle Dave & Cousin David

Fishergirl

2011-07-23T12:17:00.000-04:00

The last time Evelyn went fishing she screamed bloody murder when she caught a fish. Brian pulled the hook out and dumped it in our bucket. As the girls leaned in to check it out, it flapped around and Evelyn screamed in terror while Adeline laughed hysterically. That day is one of those memories that I can't help but explode with a huge grin and chuckle.

Well, years have past and all has changed. Grandpa and Uncle Tim helped Evelyn reel in a few fish and I didn't hear one scream. My new memory is still a huge grin but this time a proud tear. Awesome Evelyn.

Grandpa holding Evelyn's catch

Aunt Lauri getting in on the action

Think she's getting bored

Cousin Dylan

Addison, Carly & Patrick

Girls, Girls, Girls

2011-07-13T09:57:00.000-04:00

Summer in NY means I get to see some very dear friends and Evelyn and Addy get one day to hang with their daughters. Its much too short and always sad when the day ends. The girls have so much fun and are always asking when they get to see them again. I wish it would be more often, but life gets in the way and the year seems to fly by, and before you know it, its July and the girls pick right back up where they left off...for that one special day.

Bella, Alexandrea, Evelyn

Nicole, Liliana, Brianna, Adeline

Bri & Ali

Evelyn & Bella

Bumper Boats

Addy & Liliana

Tami, Christine, Jen, & Me

Old Pals and their Gals

A Case of the Sillys

Favorites Shots - Canandaigua Lake

2011-07-12T21:21:00.000-04:00

This year was another great time at the lake. The weather was perfect everyday. The only bad thing was we had to leave. Here are some of my favorite shots from the week.

Our View

Patrick & Addison

Addison Grace

Addison & Alex

Gigi, Evelyn & Addy

Sailing Course

Three Generations

Evelyn & Gigi

Evelyn at Bristol Harbor

Addy at Bristol Harbor

Treehouse Vineyards

2011-06-26T23:46:00.000-04:00

Who would think that Monroe, NC would have a winery? Not me or any of my friends. But they do. In fact, the joke was "are you sure it isn't a barn with some moonshine". As skeptical as we were, Brian and I decided to go on a "day date" and check out the place. We got a great deal on Living Social that included the wine tastings, 2 souvenir wine glasses, a winery tour, a bottle of wine & a 4-hour rental of the "date treehouse". Unfortunately, the treehouse wasn't available for our date, but we packed a picnic lunch anyways and headed out. For $39, we couldn't go wrong. And we didn't.

The vineyard is small and the winery even smaller, but the charm of the place and the people are what makes it work. Its rather new and a bit raw, but I see us coming back here again and again. SavorNC and Charlotte Weddings magazine did their photo shoot there for June/July magazine.

The tastings were good. On the sweeter side for me but I think some good Summer sippers. After six tastings, a few rounds of my new favorite game and some fun talk with the owners, we headed out for our picnic on the deck and stroll through the vineyards.

I was in picture taking heaven. Brian may have gotten the short end of our date, but wifey was very happy.

Winery begger

Camera play with vineyard out of focus

and with it in focus

The Overnight Treehouse Rental

Bailey

Bailey after he drank my wine

Bailey about to eat Brian's shirt

The magazines pic

Our pic.The poser (Same building as above)

All the wine we drank while we were there:)

We'll be back with kids in tow next time to enjoy the treehouse and get some pictures with the girls.

JDRF Walk 2011

2011-04-22T10:13:00.002-04:00

Well, mother nature reared her ugly, untimely head and sent tornado warnings to the area so the JDRF walk had to be cancelled. We were so anxious for the day and when they cancelled at 5:30 that morning, we were disappointed to say the least. I know, its just a walk. But it had so much more meaning for us. Everyone there had a connection to the experience we have been dealing with. Everyone there new of the frustration, sadness and hope. Our own little cult. A celebration of people coming together who were ready to find a cure for our children.

So I had myself a little pity party then realized that all those people had already come together for us! People who donated, designed our video, made our t-shirts, made cakes and bread and donated all the proceeds, forwarded our video, sent us notes, traveled to be here, took time out of their Saturday to walk with us, those who wanted to be here and those that take care of Addy at school...just to name a few. We have definitely been blessed. We couldn't do it without all of you.

So Bubba and Bunny's Brigade didn't walk. But we did so much more.
Not to mention that we raised

***************$5,500***************

A nice little chunk of change!

So what we hope... that we don't have to walk next year. Because that would mean, we have a cure!

Some of our team met up for breakfast so we could still celebrate and take some photos. Thank you!

Oh, and Mother Nature..That was a dirty trick. The day turned out to be a beautiful one.

One Year Looking Back

2011-03-18T15:50:00.001-04:00

Its hard to believe its been a year.

One year of 2 a.m. blood sugar checks

One year of counting carbs

One year of finger pricks

One year of a pit in our stomach

One year of wishing for a cure

One year of glucose tablets, insulin, needles, lancets, insets, alcohol pads, glucagons, emergency packs

One year of bravery more than I knew possible

One year of people reaching out to us

One year of appreciating life so much more

One year of being taught by a 3 (now 4) year old to accept life, go with the flow and never forget to giggle.

HAPPY ONE YEAR DIAGNOSIS ADELINE!

Quick Change

2011-03-14T23:17:00.000-04:00

Monday's just got a little busier. On top of gymnastics, Addy had her first soccer practice tonight. So we got home from gymnastics and did a quick change from leotards to shin guards. She was so excited about going but when she got there she seemed a little shy about everything. The normal wild Bubba was quite reserved and timid. So we did a quick sugar check to make sure she was at her game # and off she went, slowly. Painfully slowly. The team practiced shooting, dribbling, passing and not using their hands. That seemed to be the hardest for Addy. Not using her hands still hasn't registered. But, I need to remember she's only four and she will get faster and the hang of it as she practices. I think tonight was the unknown to her. Hopefully next week she will go in there as her crazy Bubba self and throw caution to the wind!

Grrrrr

Sugar Check

Addy's Bud Emelia

Things I Don't Like...

2011-03-13T22:56:00.000-04:00

Evelyn does a lot of writing. I've yet to read half of her notes, stories or letters but I came across this list that I thought was too cute to keep to ourself.

A list of things I don't like...

that I don't have any pets

most princesses

green grapes

Addy's mean side

stupid red sauce

tight things

snakes

annoying bugs

celery

Lunchables applesauce

reading, it is the worst homework I have

spiders, alligators

being in a car seat

bad smells

homework

some cheese like cheddar cheese

going to bed early

getting up to go to school early

wounds

hick-ups

groan-up TV shows all except Ellen

leaving playdates

peas

chunks in mashed potatoes

corn

spanish because its boring

peppers

slow computers

long car rides to vacation

the cold

diabetes, diabetes

more diabetes

more and more seeing Addy cry about it

DIABETES

spicy....too hot...itchy!

And lot's of more diabetes!

The most thing I hate is Diabetes!

Getting really sick.

Missing Friday's

Monday's or Tuesday's

Stinging in my eye

And most of all again Horrible Bad Diabetes

Addys Diabetes Walk 2011 Video

2011-03-08T12:39:00.000-05:00

Walk For A Cure

April 16, 2011

Charlotte, NC

Please help! Donate to one of our team members or join our team and walk with us!

(you will need to scroll down to the bottom of this blog and pause my pop-out music to hear the video)

Happy 8th E

2011-01-27T23:00:00.001-05:00

The Elf helped.

Things Addy wants you to know

2010-11-29T22:38:00.001-05:00

Me: “Addy, what would you tell someone if they asked you about Diabetes?”

Addy:

“Getting shots, if you don’t you get really sick.” You got it Addy!

“You have to prick every time you eat.” Yep!

“You do not smoke when you have diabetes.” Hmmm?

“Yucky and low, give something to me. When you’re high, you get shots. When just right, you just eat.” Not so much. You still need a shot!

“ I’m fighty when low.” What a great way to describe it!

Today we had Addy’s pump assessment appointment. We focused on three different pumps that would be good for her. I don’t know how we are going to decide. In the meantime, Addy came home with two on her: The Omnipod and the Animas. She has had them on all day and is sleeping with them on now. The Pod is bulky and attaches right to her. The pro is there is no tubing to deal with. The Animas is small but it has tubing and the pump itself has to be worn on her pants or in a pouch pack. With both, I can bolus her without having to hold her still and punch in her numbers. All remote. So, we have a lot to think about before we decide on the “one”. She is stuck with it for five years so we better get it right! Price tag? Starting at $7,000 plus monthly maintenance (insulin, test strips, inserts, etc).

Probably should have taken these pictures before she devoured her dinner. Talk about an extended belly.

St. Judes - Give Thanks. Walk!

2010-11-22T13:45:00.000-05:00

Evelyn's first patch she is working on in Brownies is her Marathon patch. What better way to reach that goal than to make her walks mean something and help children at the same time. St. Judes was the perfect choice. The Troop (incognito as the Sweettart Elves) did an amazing job and also earned the second most out of all the non-corporate teams. It was a very moving day and the girls got to see first hand who they were walking for. Sometimes Evelyn doesn't understand that cancer doesn't care who you are or how old you are. It also reminded me how fortunate we are even with Adeline's disease and it gave me a little alone time with my Evelyn. Yep, it was a good day. I'm glad I wore sunglasses, and not for the sun.

The Sweettart Elves

Why we walk:

www.caringbridge.org/visit/bellemitchell

Halloween

2010-11-08T16:53:00.002-05:00

Bunny was in a costume too

Time to go home!

Tuesday, Bloody Tuesday

2010-11-07T22:22:00.000-05:00

I hear its a rite of passage; stitches. Mine were in my head after someone threw a rock. Brian's, in his wrist from climbing over a chain link fence. Lets just hope it skips our first born. The good news is Addy has been better about sitting in her chair the right way. We will see how long that lasts, but the pain of getting them removed may help her make it through the week, at least! Tomorrow we will see if they are ready to come out. Wish us luck!

I don't know what they put on her laceration, but it went from the gash above, to...

This.

Pie with Grandma

2010-10-27T22:51:00.001-04:00

Making pie with Grandma with the apples from Sky Top Orchard.

Rewind - Easter

2010-09-19T21:52:00.000-04:00

`Well, so much for my resolution about being organized. Come to think of it, there are a lot of things on that list that went out the window. Addy's diagnosis changed our priorities and our mental status, but... I can't use that as an excuse forever. She is doing well, we are adjusting and live goes on. Now its catch up time.

Easter

It wouldn't be Easter without baskets from Uncle Dave

Easter 2010 at Litchfield Beach, SC

Yanked them out of here...to go...

Here. On the way to the egg hunt

Swing For A Cure (A night out with the Knights)

2010-08-24T00:09:00.001-04:00

Saturday night we took the girls to a Charlotte Knights baseball game. This was a special night for us as a portion of the proceeds goes to JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation). The Knights wore special beach themed jerseys that were auctioned off during the game. Addy was very excited to see other kids “like her”. Although she was a little distracted by the man selling cotton candy. Sorry Bubba. At the end of the evening, they presented a check for $7,000 to JDRF. Amazing to think one inexpensive fun night can do such good for little ones like Bubba. This event got us excited for the walk in April. Now if we can come up with a cute slogan for Team Brown.

Our neighbors

7th Inning Stretch

You might be a redneck….

2010-08-03T23:20:00.001-04:00

if you use a ladder as your diving board

The Brownie and the Potty Pooper

2010-06-08T21:36:00.026-04:00

I know, Its been a while and I WILL do a bunch of posts to recap the last month...at some point:) But for now you will just have to hear the latest news. It was a big day for the Brown girls. Evelyn had her end of the year party at school and was given a certificate for being a " Lovely Listener". Apparently, she is a completely different child at school! She's getting sentimental lately and tearing up about the end of 1st grade. Tonight she told me she is preparing herself for the bus ride on Thursday (last day of school). "There's going to be a lot of crying you know mom." Regardless, she is very excited about sleeping in, staying up late, playing with friends, swimming and going to NY & FL.

Evelyn also had her Girl Scouts Bridging party tonight. This is where the girls who earned all their Daisy petals, move up/cross over into Brownies.

Evelyn and her leader Ms Grace

So the switch has been flipped. A couple of days ago Addy unexpectedly did #2 in the potty. It stunned herself and me. But I knew not to get too excited. Especially after two lovely intentional accidents all over my carpet/hall/stairs/tile floor and $100 later. Today she surprised me. Four, yes four, times she went to the bathroom and made the beautiful #2. We may have ourselves an official potty pooper. Amazing. As promised, or bribed, she will get a DS or DSI. Unless I can convince her of something else.

Daisy in training

One Month

2010-04-18T22:54:00.001-04:00

One month of worrying, poking, crying, sticking, reacting, charting, questioning, lifestyle changing, carb counting, researching, adjusting, crying. But also…thanking, smiling, forgetting, giggling, bragging, crying.

Park, Pals and Pails

2010-04-15T12:36:00.001-04:00

Egg Color

2010-04-07T11:08:00.001-04:00

It wouldn’t be Easter without the traditional egg coloring. The eggs didn’t have a chance, as soon as they were dry the three of them started to devour their hard boiled deliciousness. With salt and vinegar of course!

Mini Egg Hunt

2010-03-30T22:33:00.001-04:00

Time got away from us this year and we didn’t get a Neighborhood Easter Egg Hunt organized. So Saturday, we grabbed some friends in the neighborhood and did a mini hunt. Everyone was awesome and filled just some eggs with candy and the rest with trinkets, bracelets, etc. Even so, Addy managed to sneak a few chocolates to raise her BS up high. Turns out big sister said she could have the kit kat when we weren’t looking.

We are off to the beach this weekend where the girls can participate in a big Easter Egg Hunt at the resort.

Here are a few shots from The Hunt.

Go Fly a Kite

2010-03-30T14:19:00.001-04:00

It has been pretty breezy here lately so we pulled out a cheap kite to see if it can get some air time. Not quite windy enough, or maybe its just the extremely small cheap kite. Regardless, the girls had lots of fun chasing it and running around. Hope we will have better luck at the beach this weekend. Notice how big sis still has to match what lil sis is wearing.

Build a Bear

2010-03-24T10:56:00.000-04:00

Evelyn was in need of some “Me” time for some time now and after all the attention going to Addy, she really needed it. I asked her if she was ok and did she get her allergy medicine. She quickly snapped, “you don’t need to worry about me, you just need to worry about Addy”. In writing that sounds so sweet. But, in reality, it was pretty blunt. So on Sunday we gave her two choices of what we could do. She had been bugging about going to a pottery studio again and to Build-a-Bear. Pushing her for the latter, she agreed Addy would be better with a bear than a breakable dish.

As you read below, you instantly see the difference between the girls. You also see who is like her Dad and who is like Mom.

Adeline walks in, selects the stuffed animal of her choice and moves on to the fluff. Her choice: a yellow chick. Total time one minute with us saying, “are you sure, what about this or that”. Evelyn takes 10 minutes, goes back and forth and still isn’t confident with her choice. Her selection: The most expensive ICarly bear.

On to fluff. Addy, in and out ready to pick out her outfit, skipping the grooming station entirely. Evelyn: goes through all the sounds, again picks the most expensive one, fluffs then grooms. Now the outfits, and Evelyn has her eye on everything. “I want skates $8, tiara & wand $6, shoes $6, dress $7, chair $8, bed $8. Addy: Heads straight to the doctor scrubs and that is it. We show her other outfits, but she is adamant. She wants the green scrubs. Entire outfit: scrubs, mask, hat, shoe covers and x-ray - $10. Sweet!

Names: Again, Addy is decisive: Doc. Evelyn doesn’t know, gives it a temporary name for the birth certificate but states, “she will have another name, I just don’t know!”

Check out: $102. Gulp.

By the way, doesn’t it melt your heart that Addy went for the doctor outfit?

Unfortunately I didn’t have my camera with me so these cell phone pictures will have to do.

Adeline - Type 1

2010-03-23T22:16:00.001-04:00

I never thought that is how I would describe Adeline. She’s a crazy, silly, wild, decisive, loud, full of life child. A mix of Type A & B. Not Type 1.

Thursday, March 18th changed that. We had noticed Addy drinking excessive amounts, extreme urination, wetting her bed and constantly hungry. But today she was lethargic and complaining her head and stomach hurt. At the doctors office they confirmed our suspicions. Her blood sugar was off the charts and her urine showed Ketones which told us her body was in trouble and using fat and muscle for energy instead of the food she was eating.

On to the Emergency Room. I swung by and grabbed Evelyn from school then raced to the hospital where Brian was waiting. They immediately brought her back and started the process. By then, she was really exhausted and grumpy. But she barely said a word. Even when the IV had to be done three times. She cried briefly when that was going on but was very still and sober. Actually, that was the best way to describe her all day, sober.

After a quick education from the ER doctors, the pediatric endocrinologist came in and gave us a thorough look at what we were dealing with before being admitted for her/our two night stay.

Addy was amazing the entire time. From stranger after stranger coming in checking her vitals and poking her with needles, to grabbing the needle from the nurse and plunging it herself. This girl rocks! And she continues to rock at home. My heart cries and smiles at the same time for this child.

So what are we looking at? 5 shots a day, at least 5 finger sticks to check her blood sugar level, urine testing, carb counting and modify her eating habits. That is a good day. Bad days, I don’t want to think about. And we have a lot to learn to make sure she stays in the best health possible.

What does a Type 1 Diabetic look like?

Like This…

And This

Park Photos

2010-03-16T16:25:00.001-04:00

Finally some nice days where we can enjoy the outdoors before the pollen hits.

100 Years Old

2010-02-17T10:04:00.000-05:00

Evelyn writes stories all the time. They always bring a smile, smirk, and usually a loud laugh out. I thought I would share this. It is funny to be able to see what a child thinks of something. A glimpse into their thoughts. Thoughts of being old.

If I was 100 years old I would have crutches and stay inside all day and watch TV. I would have gray hair and big old bumps on my face. I would look very old. I would watch boring TV shows and knit blankets and sweaters. I would have a very little house. My neighbor will visit me every day. They will help me too!

Family Valentine

2010-02-16T17:06:00.000-05:00

This year we decided to have a family valentines day instead of just the two of us. We started the morning with the girls looking for their Valentine present. My parents always hid our Easter basket and I liked that idea but we usually are away at Easter. So we have made it a tradition of hiding their Valentine’s present instead. With a little coaxing, they finally found them. One in the bathtub, one in the dryer.

Mommy even had to find her present but Addy quickly decided to use it for dress up.

After presents, we headed to the light rail for a train ride up to Pikes for brunch.

Girls on the train

Being silly waiting for our table

Dessert!

Back on the rail to Discovery Place, the local science museum.

Fun at the museum

Brian on a bed of nails

After the museum we walked over to daddy’s office. The girls loved seeing where daddy works and meets with other people.

Sitting at Daddy’s desk

Standing on the credenza looking out of Daddy’s office window.

View of Panthers stadium from office, 39 floors up

Three with nature

2010-02-15T22:32:00.001-05:00

Sunday February 7, 2010

While Daddy was off on his annual Super Bowl Golf Outing, the girls and I took a ride uptown to the nature museum. Its so much fun hanging “just the girls”. The museum was not what we expected but we still had fun being silly and checking out the creatures that live in our area.

Snow Fun

2010-02-14T22:15:00.001-05:00

We woke up to a white wonderland and after a quick breakfast, we headed out to play. Luckily I remembered we had an antique toboggan we use for decoration, otherwise we would have been sled less. The girls had a great time and I got to take some photos.

To Nap or Not to Nap

2010-02-08T21:50:00.001-05:00

That is the question.

Nap… she is bouncing off the walls and doesn’t want to sleep at 8pm.

No nap…she is asleep while eating dinner before 6pm, not to mention Angry Addy. Trust me, you don’t want to see Angry Addy, she’s not pleasant.

The Rock 2010

2010-01-27T22:57:00.001-05:00

Another year down. 7! Can you believe it!? Tomorrow is the big day so today we headed to the school to paint the rock for her special day. Addy and I will meet her for lunch and her requested birthday brownies for her class. She requested quesadillas for dinner again so it looks like we will head out for Mexican, then back home for ice cream cake. Polka dot ice cream cake.

Last year…

This year (do you like her painters smock?)…

The girl likes polka dots. Just like her mom.

(HerE is an updated Do you know from last birthday)

Do you know that Evelyn...............................

Is still sucking her thumb . . . Not anymore! She finally quit soon after this blog.
Is a huge worry wart. . . Not sure that will ever change.
Still says "hostibal" when trying to say hospital . . . sad to say she doesn’t. I just thought it was so cute.
Loves her stuffed animals and sleeps with a handful each night . . . Probably her all time favorite toys.
Says her best friend is Addy...ahhhh. . . that hasn’t changed
Tries to match anything that Addy is wearing . . .Yep, still.
The place she most wants to go is Kansas (or as she says, "Kansdis"). . . Yes, but she loves to go anywhere her extended family will be.
Desperately wants to take off her training wheels. Mom and Dad have slacked on this one.
Listens for Addy to wake up and then plays with her in her crib. . . . Addy wakes up before her. Evelyn

Gets mad at me if I don't give her enough time to play with Addy in the crib. No more crib but every weekend she has to sleep in Addy’s bed with her.

Has been in gymnastics for a year but still can't do a cartwheel. Finally mastered that and has moved onto walkovers and controlling her handstands.

Has the most gorgeous eyes. . . so jealous!

Gets frustrated easily just like her mommy. . .what can I say, we’re not patient girls

Likes to watches football with her daddy and roots for the team playing that is closest to us. . . . and basketball. If you ask her, she is not a “sporty” girl

Loves school. . .hasn’t changed

Is the absolute best big sister. . .hasn’t changed

Loves pink pink and more pink. . .hasn’t changed although she has been mentioning purple lately

Is not into barbies or princessy things. . .hasn’t changed. Just the other day she asked what she is since she isn’t into girlie things and not into sports except gymnastics.

Loves making crafts and doing mazes. . .hasn’t changed

Hung from the monkey bars at the park for 106 seconds . . .been too cold to know that this year!

Finally agreed to let me get her hair cut . . . she wants it long again and is refusing a hair cut

Hasn't lost any of her baby teeth . . .Just lost her third the other night!

Eats peanut butter everyday. . . slowed down a little but still loves it

On another note, I can’t believe it has been one year since Addy moved into a big girl bed.

Disney

2010-01-23T22:43:00.001-05:00

Too tired to think of blogging but wanted to show you a couple photos from the happiest place on earth.

Sisters

2010-01-03T15:00:00.000-05:00

“Of two sisters, one is always the watcher, one the dancer.” - Louise Gluck

“She is your mirror, shining back at you with a world of possibilities. She is your witness, who sees you at your worst and best and loves you anyway. She is your partner in crime, your midnight companion, someone who knows when you are smiling, even in the dark. She is your teacher, your defense attorney, your personal press agent, even your shrink. Some days, she's the reason you wish you were an only child.” - Barbara Alpert

I think those two quotes say it all. Wouldn’t you agree?

long road home to resolutions

2010-01-02T19:32:00.000-05:00

The holidays are over and we are driving back to NC thinking about the great time with family:

Sledding

Watching the girls play with their uncles, aunt, cousins, grandparents, 2nd cousins and “Summer Friends”

Celebrating Addy’s 3rd birthday

Meeting baby cousin Alex

Seeing cousin Shaun and Nicole’s beautiful new home. So jealous!

Enjoying Tim’s wine by his great fireplace almost every night

But, it wouldn’t be a holiday if one of us weren’t sick. Or most of us! All of us went into it with a cold but Brian and Addy got hit with a nasty stomach bug too. Both the girls had some “not-so-feel-good” days, but Addy was on again off again most of the time. She finally seems to be getting better, fortunately, for the long car ride back home.

It’s always sad to leave family, but we are looking forward to getting settled back home, organizing the excessive amounts of toys the girls received and getting started on our New Year.

The first thing on our New Year list is to get our Disney trip finalized. I can’t believe we leave in two weeks for that. And a blink of an eye after that, Evelyn will turn 7.

So lets see what I hope for 2010…

Rock the gym

Eliminate sugar for the most part

Search for bedroom furniture and not give up this time

Organize the house

Lens for camera and Learn more

Utilize my time better

Take more photography classes

Imagine – Addy potty trained, our new addition decorated and furnished, me organized!

Ocean vacation

New boobs. Its not like it’s a secret! You all know that would be at the top of my list if B ever really gives in. Besides, I really need them for my ocean vacation!

Stick to the gym

Happy New Year everyone!

1,2,3,4,5

2009-12-29T22:37:00.001-05:00

I think we are finally done celebrating Addy’s 3rd birthday. How many birthday celebrations does a girl need? Apparently 5. One at school, one with her neighbor friends, one with us, one with Grandma, Papa, Uncle Dave & cousin David, and another with Brian’s family. Maybe we can get it down to two next year.

One happy girl!

Bubba’s 3

2009-12-22T00:53:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Adeline! We love you!

My how you have changed!

Look at me now!

Daisy Girl

2009-12-20T11:26:00.001-05:00

One of the many things I’ve forgotten to tell you is Evelyn is a Girl Scout. She is only been in for two months and at her age they call them Daisy’s. Next up: Brownies, but we will have to wait and see if she sticks with it until then. For now, she is having fun, learning self esteem, understanding the need for charity and compassion, and making new friends. Tuesday night was their first badge ceremony (for memorizing the Girl Scout Promise) and Christmas party where they exchanged gifts and presented their first donation to the charity they picked, SAFE Animal Haven.

Traditions

2009-12-18T22:50:00.001-05:00

Every Thanksgiving we or a family member pick up a gingerbread kit for the girls to put together. This year was not different, minus a couple of our main helpers. Apparently, Addy had a mini tantrum with the box and broke the roof before they even got started. Never fear, Grandpa worked his carpentry magic and fixed it. By the next morning, the supports came off and the broken roof was history.

Mad Scientist and Crafter

2009-12-11T16:30:00.000-05:00

Evelyn was in need of some 1-on-1 attention after G-ma and G-pa’s departure. So during Addys nap went through the craft closet and pulled out some crafts and science projects she hadn’t done before.

With a little vinegar, baking soda, canister and …

A Mad Scientist

You Get… A Canister Cannon

Then on to the crafts. After making a couple Christmas cards from scratch, we grabbed some t-shirts and iron on transfers and viola! New shirts for the girls.

Grove Park Inn

2009-12-11T16:08:00.000-05:00

Much needed

Much appreciated

Much in awe of

Much relaxation

Much reconnecting

Much wanting to go back

Brian and I snuck away for two nights to The Grove Park Inn in Asheville, NC while Grandma and Grandpa stayed with the girls. We haven’t been on a vacation or mini-getaway just the two of us in I can remember how long. Leaving the girls in great hands, we headed to Blowing Rock first for lunch, a quick stop at one of our favorite antique shops and one of our favorite ice cream shops Kilwins. Second to Ben and Bill’s in Bar Harbor, ME. Wait, I think I just remembered the last time we got away together, Maine!

We had a great time, eating, relaxing, sitting by the enormous fireplaces, checking out the winning gingerbread houses from the National Gingerbread Contest, and spending the most amazing time in the Spa. See for yourself. Not sure there is a more relaxing place. Unfortunately, you can’t take pictures in the spa.

My pictures wont do Grove Park justice. I was rainy and the famous red roof was under construction. You will just have to visit for yourself. We will again!

Our Terrific Kid

2009-12-11T11:42:00.001-05:00

I am so behind on my blog and have so much to tell and show you, but I wanted to start with the latest news.

Evelyn was selected for a Terrific Kid Award. Each month, Evelyn’s school picks one kid from each class (1st –5th grade) as a terrific kid. This months character trait is Compassion. Evelyn shows this in many ways home and at school.

According to Merriam-Webster, compassion is defined as: "Sympathetic consciousness of others' distress together with a desire to alleviate it."

Making the decision and acting upon the decision is how compassion is brought into action. Compassion involves action and smart decisions.

At the award breakfast this morning, Evelyn’s teacher noted one specific instance when Evelyn noticed a classmate didn’t have a snack at snack-time. She saw his sadness and asked him if he would like to share hers.

Evelyn has come a long way from her crazy tantrum, head-banging toddler days. We know she has many good traits, but are so proud of her virtue. You ARE a terrific kid!

Gobble, Gobble Goes The Hands

2009-11-26T22:06:00.001-05:00

Leaves

2009-11-17T23:10:00.001-05:00

October gave a party;
The leaves by hundreds came -
The Chestnuts, Oaks, and Maples,
And leaves of every name.~George Cooper

Mountains

2009-11-13T14:33:00.001-05:00

Our itch wasn’t fulfilled this year so in a last minute effort, we decided to make a road trip to the mountains. I jumped online Friday afternoon, found a hotel with our points for Saturday, and left the rest to adventure. That morning we packed up and headed West. With no specific plan, we headed towards Lake Lure. It was a beautiful day to be outdoors and when we got to the “town” Evelyn looked up and saw the mountain known as Chimney Rock (where The Last Of The Mohicans was filmed) and said “can we please climb this!” Addy on the other hand said NO!!!! Really, she said she was too scared and we were NOT going up there. After a quick bite to eat at the cafe next to the entrance we headed up. Sorry Addy! The trees were past their peak but what a beautiful day and view. Brian and I had been there several times. Once with Evelyn when she was 10 months old (below).

Opera box

The elevator through the Rock was down for maintenance so we had to hike from the parking lot up. Not the best scenario with Evelyn and Addy but E was a trooper and had so much fun hiking and climbing. Addy, not so much. Brian ended up carrying her the entire 3 hours we were there. At the end, she was asleep and Brian was lugging 40lbs of dead weight.

No fear, she woke up just in time for ice cream at the bottom. After an amazing day, we headed to the hotel in Asheville. Expecting a standard room with two beds, the resort double upgraded us to our own house with a fireplace and two bedrooms, complimentary bottled waters, fresh cookies and chocolate covered strawberries and grapes. Guess this is how the other half lives.

The next morning after a wonderful breakfast, we headed in town to stroll around and hit up an awesome antique warehouse. Getting hungry we headed to Black Mountain for a late lunch and stroll through town. Of course we couldn’t leave without one last ice cream stop to end the trip right! Last time Evelyn was in Black Mountain, she looked like this:

On top

Elevator closed!

Opera Box

The view on top

If only we had seen this first!

In front of the Biltmore store

sick klutz

2009-11-03T17:02:00.000-05:00

Addy hasn’t been acting herself lately and couldn’t seem to shake her cough. Besides the cough keeping her up at night, she wasn’t acting “sick”, just calm for her. So yesterday I kept her home from school and took her to the doctors. Turns out her lungs didn’t sound so good. She was wheezing and needed a breathing treatment. So while they were out getting it ready, she got down and was walking around the room. I look away then hear a crash, smack. She had tripped on the wheel of the doctors chair and came down face first on a stool. Screams, blood and tears filled the room. Back in the doctor came to see if she was ok. She had cut her lip and around to the inside of her cheek to the back of her mouth. Luckily, no stitches or loose teeth. I guess if you’re going to fall, do it in a doctors office. We just need to watch her teeth to make sure she didn’t damage them. Diagnosis? Walking pneumonia, ear infection and klutz.

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-03T11:02:00.001-05:00

Evelyn, Ethan, Addy, Jack

I take a break

Yes, Bunny trick or treated too!

School Parties

2009-11-03T10:39:00.001-05:00

Both the girls had small Halloween/Fall parties at school and were allowed to wear their costumes. Addy tagged along with me to Evelyn’s. I was worried she would be her nutty self and out of control, but she surprised me and was extremely behaved. Who knew!

Addy for her class party

Story time with Sissy, Hoodwinked!

Worms and dirt!

Some classmates!

#1 Visitor

Carving time

2009-11-03T09:45:00.001-05:00

We procrastinated enough and Halloween morning we rushed to get our pumpkins carved. Addy decided not to participate, stating, “That’s disgusting”!

From Evelyn’s drawing

to this

October Weekend 3

2009-11-02T23:17:00.001-05:00

Aw Shucks Corn Maze 10/18

Despite the cold day, we had a great time at Aw Shucks. They added so much more this year, but unfortunately my battery died before I could take more pictures. The good news, Addy enjoyed herself this year and didn’t have any meltdowns. We let both of them decide how to get us through the maze. They only cheated a few times.

Look how much they have changed since last year!

Haircuts

2009-10-29T12:38:00.001-04:00

It was time for a much needed haircut for the girls. Evelyn’s had finally grown out enough to get it “fixed” from the hack job Great Clips did to it. My hairstylist had attempted to fix it right after the mangling, but it was so short, she had to just even it out. This time she was able to blend it and make it more of what we wanted in the first place. Lesson learned! We will stick to my lady.

But this was Addy’s first haircut! Can you be it. Two and 3/4’s old! I was always so nervous since she has such a nice wave and soft curls. But, it was time. Her hair was getting stuck in her armpit and peaking out the front.

I completely forgot my camera (brain wasn’t functioning so well from the late night b-day celebration), so forgive me for the awful cell phone pictures.

10/24/09

October Weekend 2

2009-10-28T09:00:00.000-04:00

We managed to get a nice day on our 2nd October weekend and we let the girls decide where to go. They picked the Lazy 5 Ranch. Does this sign look familiar?

October weekends 1

2009-10-27T15:22:00.001-04:00

Where or where has my little Fall gone? Or where or where could it be? We went from hot Summer to freezing Winter. Yes, my blood has thinned since we moved here but going from high 80’s to 40’s & 50’s make me miss my favorite time of year. Time for the light sweater or vest with a long sleeve. Time to take hikes without worrying so much about the snakes. By the way, they are a little confused with the weather too. Time for our annual Fall /birthday/mountain trip not to include snow and highs of 39f. Time for me to take pictures of the beautiful fall colors. Come on Weather! Time for me to get on with the point!

We have been finding our Fall plans to be dangling on the weather. Taking each day/weekend at a time instead of planning ahead. We have been able to salvage some days. Our first weekend we took the kids to Carowinds which is the local amusement park. They had an amazing time. Brian and I did too, up until the twirling balloon ride from hell!

Carowinds

porch fun

2009-10-26T12:29:00.000-04:00

Well my birthday weekend proved to be a tiring one. Dinner and drinks with friends on Friday, then out again with a couple girlfriends on Saturday night uptown. I have never seen Charlotte so busy. A ~~big~~ enormous Halloween party was going on at one of the bars; the streets were packed with Bills fans in town for the game; and a black tie event was happening at the theater. What a mix of characters. Evening gowns and tux, to Bills paraphernalia, to the wildest costumes you can imagine. It was quite a show. After a late dinner we grabbed a front row window seat at an Irish Pub to people watch. The best people watching event I’ve seen in a while. After two very late nights in a row, yesterday was a low-key day with just the girls (Daddy was gone all day with his fraternity bro’s at the Panthers/Bills game). So after some breakfast and playing with their new goody bags from the babysitter and her family, we headed to the front porch to hang some spider webbing for Halloween. The girls picked a lovely color of green instead of the white Mommy would have picked.

Later we hit Sports Connections (where Evelyn’s 5th b-day party was) with my friend Jean and her kids Ethan and Emelia. The kids bounced hard so we grabbed some food with four very tired kiddos. Probably a mistake in hind sight since mine were so well behaved, not!