While hanging out on the couch a few nights ago, Davis had this to say, "Mom, do you know what I am thinking?"
"No, what are you thinking about?"
"Mom, I'm thinking Arby's."
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Friday, June 27, 2008
The week's top 6
6) 80 minute drive to a dinosaur museum that wasn't worth an 80 minute drive (arghh).
5) Trying to keep our small house as quiet as possible while D sleeps during the day (he started night shifts on Tuesday).
4) Dancing during the commercial break of SYTYCD and Davis telling me to "Stop, mom, that is weird."
3) 3 Kids being REALLY GOOD during Sacrament Meeting on Sunday (what a miracle).
2) I seriously drank 64 ounces of Diet Dr. Pepper on Monday (sad, but true). On Tuesday I had a headache from about 4:00 PM on (later I realized it was probably a caffeine withdrawal headache).
1) Sending Roger to a friend's house and taking the twins to see WALLE on opening day-- it was cute and I ate all the popcorn myself.
5) Trying to keep our small house as quiet as possible while D sleeps during the day (he started night shifts on Tuesday).
4) Dancing during the commercial break of SYTYCD and Davis telling me to "Stop, mom, that is weird."
3) 3 Kids being REALLY GOOD during Sacrament Meeting on Sunday (what a miracle).
2) I seriously drank 64 ounces of Diet Dr. Pepper on Monday (sad, but true). On Tuesday I had a headache from about 4:00 PM on (later I realized it was probably a caffeine withdrawal headache).
1) Sending Roger to a friend's house and taking the twins to see WALLE on opening day-- it was cute and I ate all the popcorn myself.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
I just called my Senators, it was really easy!
Did you know. . . .that on July 1st, there is a 10% payment cut to PHYSICIANS for the services they provide to Medicare patients? In case you weren't aware, physicians are barely being paid enough to cover their costs when they treat these patients. That's right, every time a medicare patient visits his/her physician, their payments (by the government) barely even pay for the physician's time, tests. and overhead. Since I personally know a physician (quite a few, actually), I know they work endless hours to help and provide a better life to these patients. The governments flawed payment formula will force physicians to stop accepting medicare patients-- how can they treat patients if they aren't being paid enough to cover their bills? A 10% cut in payments would be a HUGE blow to medicare patients and the doctors who treat them.
The Senate will be voting in the next 2 days on a new, compromise bill to avert the July 1 Medicare physician payment cuts. You need to call your senators TODAY and ask them to vote YES to House Bill 6331. For the first time ever, I called my Senator's office. It was easy. I just dialed this number: 1-888-434-6200. After I called, I dialed in my 5 digit zip code and chose which Senator to call. I was then connected to the Senator's office. I left a message on the answering machine in one office, and spoke to the secretary in the other, I introduced myself and urged the Senator to vote FOR House Bill 6331, which would avert physician payment cuts. I was really nervous, but it was simple. You should try it!!
The Senate will be voting in the next 2 days on a new, compromise bill to avert the July 1 Medicare physician payment cuts. You need to call your senators TODAY and ask them to vote YES to House Bill 6331. For the first time ever, I called my Senator's office. It was easy. I just dialed this number: 1-888-434-6200. After I called, I dialed in my 5 digit zip code and chose which Senator to call. I was then connected to the Senator's office. I left a message on the answering machine in one office, and spoke to the secretary in the other, I introduced myself and urged the Senator to vote FOR House Bill 6331, which would avert physician payment cuts. I was really nervous, but it was simple. You should try it!!
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
growing
Eliza: Mom, am I still growing?
Mom: Yes, someday you'll be a grown-up like me.
Eliza: But Mom, you are still growing.
Mom: I am?
Eliza: Yes, you are growing into a grandma.
Mom: Yes, someday you'll be a grown-up like me.
Eliza: But Mom, you are still growing.
Mom: I am?
Eliza: Yes, you are growing into a grandma.
Monday, June 23, 2008
1 down, 5 to go (or 6 or 7)
Today is officially D's last day as an intern (woop, woop)! That means it is one year down and in the books. I can honestly say that it hasn't been the worst year ever (though times were really, really, really hard), but I also feel like we've been very blessed.
Things I won't miss about intern year:
1) The lowest paid year of D's life (hopefully the lowest) (if you don't count med school)-- we get a raise tomorrow!
2) The alarm clock going off at 4:00 A.M. because the intern is the first one in the hospital to 'pre-round' on all the patients.
3) The shocking first few months as an intern's wife-- you know, the ones where I realized this rotation isn't going to end any time soon and yes, my husband will be gone 80+ hours per week.
4) Watching the neighbors get in the car to drop their kids off for preschool-- while I prepare for preschool at my place (you know, trying to save money by not paying for preschool tuition x2)
5) Taking the kids trick-or-treating by myself and celebrating their birthday a day late.
6) Going to church husbandless for 8 weeks in a row-- at least one of which I did Sharing Time while holding my little guy in my arms (after that day I had really sore arms).
7) Getting really disappointed when at 6:15 D calls and says, "Sorry, I'm not getting out of here any time soon."
So there's my boo-hoo's but, on top of the rough days, we had some great experiences.
1) D had Thanksgiving and Christmas off (what a blessing!) by sheer luck and fortune.
2) When D was set apart as EQ President, he was blessed that his calling would not interfere in his career. I can truly say there have been so many days he has come home and said he know he was blessed that day because although he didn't study for a conference or case (due to a EQ meeting or activity) he was able to answer questions or remember how to perform a procedure.
3) I might even miss teaching preschool.
4) I've learned I can, indeed, survive-- even thrive?-- with my husband gone 80+ hours per week.
5) I've learned that when I make FHE a priority, my sanity level increases.
6) We've learned that D has found his life calling: he loves being a doctor and looks forward to advancing his surgical skills.
7) I've learned that even if my house is dirty and the laundry needs cleaning, sometimes I just need to leave to protect myself and the kids from my tempers.
8) I've learned to add at least an hour to my husbands expected arrival time (even when he says he'll be home in a half hour).
9) Basically, I've learned that when I expect something out of my husband, I am only disappointed, therefore I learned if it supposed to be done, do it yourself.
10) I've also learned my husband is very cheerful, even when he's tired--very, very tired.
Things I won't miss about intern year:
1) The lowest paid year of D's life (hopefully the lowest) (if you don't count med school)-- we get a raise tomorrow!
2) The alarm clock going off at 4:00 A.M. because the intern is the first one in the hospital to 'pre-round' on all the patients.
3) The shocking first few months as an intern's wife-- you know, the ones where I realized this rotation isn't going to end any time soon and yes, my husband will be gone 80+ hours per week.
4) Watching the neighbors get in the car to drop their kids off for preschool-- while I prepare for preschool at my place (you know, trying to save money by not paying for preschool tuition x2)
5) Taking the kids trick-or-treating by myself and celebrating their birthday a day late.
6) Going to church husbandless for 8 weeks in a row-- at least one of which I did Sharing Time while holding my little guy in my arms (after that day I had really sore arms).
7) Getting really disappointed when at 6:15 D calls and says, "Sorry, I'm not getting out of here any time soon."
So there's my boo-hoo's but, on top of the rough days, we had some great experiences.
1) D had Thanksgiving and Christmas off (what a blessing!) by sheer luck and fortune.
2) When D was set apart as EQ President, he was blessed that his calling would not interfere in his career. I can truly say there have been so many days he has come home and said he know he was blessed that day because although he didn't study for a conference or case (due to a EQ meeting or activity) he was able to answer questions or remember how to perform a procedure.
3) I might even miss teaching preschool.
4) I've learned I can, indeed, survive-- even thrive?-- with my husband gone 80+ hours per week.
5) I've learned that when I make FHE a priority, my sanity level increases.
6) We've learned that D has found his life calling: he loves being a doctor and looks forward to advancing his surgical skills.
7) I've learned that even if my house is dirty and the laundry needs cleaning, sometimes I just need to leave to protect myself and the kids from my tempers.
8) I've learned to add at least an hour to my husbands expected arrival time (even when he says he'll be home in a half hour).
9) Basically, I've learned that when I expect something out of my husband, I am only disappointed, therefore I learned if it supposed to be done, do it yourself.
10) I've also learned my husband is very cheerful, even when he's tired--very, very tired.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Top 10 Signs I DON'T Rule the Roost
10) The bathroom counter top is littered with hair accessories--hundreds and hundreds of bows, barrettes, and scrunchies.
9) At any moment in time there is a stuffed animal playing melodies on the piano--or at least, he is positioned to.
8) The first section I hit at the library is the graphic novel section (and yes, 5 years ago I didn't know that graphic novel is just a fancy word for comic book).
7) I was going to exercise this morning, but was thwarted by the fort draped from the side of the treadmill.
6) Before bedtime, there is always a mad rush around the house trying to figure out where all the blankies have disappeared.
5) My purse has all the necessities: wallet, chapstick, and Hot Wheels cars.
4) There is something pesky which won't let go of my skirt--oh yeah, it's that darn toddler.
3) In the grocery store, I opt for the Mack Truck cart: you know, the one with two steering wheels in front, and the two kids who climb out, terrorize the isles, and whine really loudly for a treat.
2) My church bag is big enough for my scriptures, manuals, and 3 footballs-- instead of footballs, there are enough toys, books, and crayons, to fill up, oh, 10 minutes of quiet time during Sacrament Meeting.
1) While enjoying a nice night out with my husband we can't stop talking about the people we've left behind at home.
9) At any moment in time there is a stuffed animal playing melodies on the piano--or at least, he is positioned to.
8) The first section I hit at the library is the graphic novel section (and yes, 5 years ago I didn't know that graphic novel is just a fancy word for comic book).
7) I was going to exercise this morning, but was thwarted by the fort draped from the side of the treadmill.
6) Before bedtime, there is always a mad rush around the house trying to figure out where all the blankies have disappeared.
5) My purse has all the necessities: wallet, chapstick, and Hot Wheels cars.
4) There is something pesky which won't let go of my skirt--oh yeah, it's that darn toddler.
3) In the grocery store, I opt for the Mack Truck cart: you know, the one with two steering wheels in front, and the two kids who climb out, terrorize the isles, and whine really loudly for a treat.
2) My church bag is big enough for my scriptures, manuals, and 3 footballs-- instead of footballs, there are enough toys, books, and crayons, to fill up, oh, 10 minutes of quiet time during Sacrament Meeting.
1) While enjoying a nice night out with my husband we can't stop talking about the people we've left behind at home.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
To War or Not to War
I apologize if this is a controversial topic, but I've been thinking a lot about it lately and I just want to hear everyone's opinion.
I've been bored this week-- D has been gone for 8 days in a row--home around midnight and gone at 5-- so I've been spending my free time at nights surfing the old www (yes, I know, I should have been doing laundry or dishes or something else-- but mindless surfing is fun for me). Anyway, don't ask me how I got here, but I fell into reading some Catholic and Christian bloggers take on the war in Iraq. The consensus on this issue is anything but that-- there is no agreement whatsoever. Some people cite Joshua's "preemptive" strike at Jericho as justification for why we could be in Iraq (they were evil, being led by Satan) while other people cite Jesus's sermons (and strong example) about loving our enemies.
I was looking at a scripture in Exodus 21:12-14 which reads: "He that smiteth a man, so that he die, shall be surely put to death. And if a man lie not in wait, but God deliver him into his hand; then I will apoint thee a place whither he shall flee. But if a man come presumptuously upon his neighbour, to slay him with guile; thou shalt take hime form mine altar, that he may die." While I was reading this I thought, basically "People that kill other people may deserve the death penalty, and sometimes if someone is "presumptuously" ready to kill, he too, will deserve to die." (that is, of course, a small paraphrase).
As members of the LDS church, I think we've got another 'handy' book (aka BOM) which may help elucidate God's feelings about war. I am thinking mainly of the the war chapters in Alma. I haven't yet delved into them looking for answers, but I am remembering the imperatives from God which basically said that if the Nephites were to defend themselves from robbers or Lamanites, they would be victorious, but if they were to "pre-emptively strike" God would not be with them. To me, in these circumstances, a 'pre-emptive strike' by the Nephites would have been the outward action of malicious intent and hatred-- thus the 'no support' dictum from God.
Anyway, I am going to go back and look at these scriptures and try to find some answers because on one hand, I really thought Saddam was so wicked and working towards goals of killing others for gain, while on the other-- I am not sure America was in imminent danger when we went into Iraq. Were we justified in our actions?
I would like to open this up to friendly and doctrinal discussion and hopefully we can learn something from each other. In the end, we might not figure out if war was justified or not, but at least we will learn something, I hope!
I've been bored this week-- D has been gone for 8 days in a row--home around midnight and gone at 5-- so I've been spending my free time at nights surfing the old www (yes, I know, I should have been doing laundry or dishes or something else-- but mindless surfing is fun for me). Anyway, don't ask me how I got here, but I fell into reading some Catholic and Christian bloggers take on the war in Iraq. The consensus on this issue is anything but that-- there is no agreement whatsoever. Some people cite Joshua's "preemptive" strike at Jericho as justification for why we could be in Iraq (they were evil, being led by Satan) while other people cite Jesus's sermons (and strong example) about loving our enemies.
I was looking at a scripture in Exodus 21:12-14 which reads: "He that smiteth a man, so that he die, shall be surely put to death. And if a man lie not in wait, but God deliver him into his hand; then I will apoint thee a place whither he shall flee. But if a man come presumptuously upon his neighbour, to slay him with guile; thou shalt take hime form mine altar, that he may die." While I was reading this I thought, basically "People that kill other people may deserve the death penalty, and sometimes if someone is "presumptuously" ready to kill, he too, will deserve to die." (that is, of course, a small paraphrase).
As members of the LDS church, I think we've got another 'handy' book (aka BOM) which may help elucidate God's feelings about war. I am thinking mainly of the the war chapters in Alma. I haven't yet delved into them looking for answers, but I am remembering the imperatives from God which basically said that if the Nephites were to defend themselves from robbers or Lamanites, they would be victorious, but if they were to "pre-emptively strike" God would not be with them. To me, in these circumstances, a 'pre-emptive strike' by the Nephites would have been the outward action of malicious intent and hatred-- thus the 'no support' dictum from God.
Anyway, I am going to go back and look at these scriptures and try to find some answers because on one hand, I really thought Saddam was so wicked and working towards goals of killing others for gain, while on the other-- I am not sure America was in imminent danger when we went into Iraq. Were we justified in our actions?
I would like to open this up to friendly and doctrinal discussion and hopefully we can learn something from each other. In the end, we might not figure out if war was justified or not, but at least we will learn something, I hope!
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
My two cents
Democratic leaders have generally run on the platform that the rich people in the U.S. ignore the poor, but today the democratic majority in Congress has proven otherwise. Maybe because Bush was doing the proposing to abandon current bans on offshore drilling, but I am totally shocked that our Congressman are not taking this $4.00/gallon gas prices seriously (maybe it is because they get so many perks at work they aren't feeling the pinch).
Come on Obama-- you say that offshore drilling wouldn't make a difference in the near future, but isn't the point that it would eventually make a difference-- not to mention, help put us in a more independent place as a nation. Are any alternative energy sources going to make a difference in the near future? (the answer is NO). I say drill for oil-- help Americans out in our nearer future while we explore new and innovative technologies. HOW HIGH DO GAS PRICES NEED TO SKYROCKET BEFORE THE DEMOCRATIC MAJORITY IN CONGRESS DECIDES WE NEED TO HELP OURSELVES? When will Democrats recognize the merits of a good idea--even if it is being admonished by Bush (their arch-nemesis)? It's called supply and demand. We drill for oil=more supply. More supply= lower prices. Some people argue that the oil would be on the global market so Americans wouldn't benefit. I say poo to that idea-- I took economics too!
I think most Americans would agree with me we are paying too much for gas-- and prices are only rising. This ban on offshore drilling may have had its place in the past, but the time is NOW to start reconsidering. This should not be a partisan issue. Democrats and Republicans across the nation are all suffering. Polls show that the majority of Americans support the idea of offshore drilling.
Sorry coral reefs, but I think there are enough of you living rocks on earth to sacrifice a few for our good (call me an earth hater, if you must. Though I guess drilling is more environmentally safe these days).
Come on Obama-- you say that offshore drilling wouldn't make a difference in the near future, but isn't the point that it would eventually make a difference-- not to mention, help put us in a more independent place as a nation. Are any alternative energy sources going to make a difference in the near future? (the answer is NO). I say drill for oil-- help Americans out in our nearer future while we explore new and innovative technologies. HOW HIGH DO GAS PRICES NEED TO SKYROCKET BEFORE THE DEMOCRATIC MAJORITY IN CONGRESS DECIDES WE NEED TO HELP OURSELVES? When will Democrats recognize the merits of a good idea--even if it is being admonished by Bush (their arch-nemesis)? It's called supply and demand. We drill for oil=more supply. More supply= lower prices. Some people argue that the oil would be on the global market so Americans wouldn't benefit. I say poo to that idea-- I took economics too!
I think most Americans would agree with me we are paying too much for gas-- and prices are only rising. This ban on offshore drilling may have had its place in the past, but the time is NOW to start reconsidering. This should not be a partisan issue. Democrats and Republicans across the nation are all suffering. Polls show that the majority of Americans support the idea of offshore drilling.
Sorry coral reefs, but I think there are enough of you living rocks on earth to sacrifice a few for our good (call me an earth hater, if you must. Though I guess drilling is more environmentally safe these days).
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Kids and characters
Last week while in the cereal isle (also with granola bars, Pop Tarts, and other such 'breakfast bars) I had a heated argument with the kids. You see, the Betty Crocker fruit snacks were on sale for $1.66/box while the Kelloggs fruit snacks were $2.00/box. To set the mood, I would like you to picture about 30-40 different fruit snack varieties, each with a different theme such as Superman, Hello Kitty, Cinderella, Dora the Explorer, etc. etc. etc. First of all-- why in the world are fruit snacks called fruit snacks-- they do not come close to resembling fruit, nor are they snacks-- lets get down to it: they are candy in disguise parading themselves in colorful, character-laced boxes.
If you haven't yet guessed the argument I was having, I will inform you: Eliza wanted a "girly flavor", while Davis insisted on a "boyly" (quote) variety. After I broke down and told them I would get each of them a box, I realized I had yet one more hurdle to jump. Eliza wanted the Strawberry Shortcake (Kelloggs, of course) while Davis wanted Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (also Kelloggs). I tried every logical argument with them-- "Well, you know you when you eat the snacks, they turn into one big mush in your tummy anyway, so it doesn't matter if its a turtle or a block of Kryptonite (Superman fruit snacks)" "You guys don't even pay attention to what you are eating anyway!" "Oh look, they've got Little Einsteins. . . " Finally, I sacrificed the 33 cents (apiece) and just bought the Kelloggs brand. Anything it takes to avoid a real scene in the grocery store, right?
As I've been pondering this little grocery store moment, I actually think the marketers for kids foods have got a good thing going. Why don't they put pictures of Patrick Dempsey on the broccoli and carrots? Better yet, every package of oreos would come with an approval from Roseanne Barr. Oooh, I'd be eating more fiber cereal if they had a slimming mirror on the box, wouldn't you?
If you haven't yet guessed the argument I was having, I will inform you: Eliza wanted a "girly flavor", while Davis insisted on a "boyly" (quote) variety. After I broke down and told them I would get each of them a box, I realized I had yet one more hurdle to jump. Eliza wanted the Strawberry Shortcake (Kelloggs, of course) while Davis wanted Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (also Kelloggs). I tried every logical argument with them-- "Well, you know you when you eat the snacks, they turn into one big mush in your tummy anyway, so it doesn't matter if its a turtle or a block of Kryptonite (Superman fruit snacks)" "You guys don't even pay attention to what you are eating anyway!" "Oh look, they've got Little Einsteins. . . " Finally, I sacrificed the 33 cents (apiece) and just bought the Kelloggs brand. Anything it takes to avoid a real scene in the grocery store, right?
As I've been pondering this little grocery store moment, I actually think the marketers for kids foods have got a good thing going. Why don't they put pictures of Patrick Dempsey on the broccoli and carrots? Better yet, every package of oreos would come with an approval from Roseanne Barr. Oooh, I'd be eating more fiber cereal if they had a slimming mirror on the box, wouldn't you?
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Happy Father's Day
Here's my top memories of good 'ole Dad:
1) My parents going to the temple A LOT when I was growing up-- I liked babysitters!
2) The summer that Dad and I hiked for a half hour in the evenings (I was 12 or 13, I think). I remember Dad picking up empty soda cans and wrappers-- this made me more aware of my environment and how we should realize everyone enjoys earth together.
3) Dad giving me the '5 minute warning' before church while I was a teen. And then when I was late he said 'Time's up! Don't worry so much about how you look at church." He seriously got us all to church on time EVERY WEEK!! That simple thing showed me how important he thought the meetings were.
4) Dad getting up early on Saturdays to work in the yard. He always started the day off with a trip to the gas station for a soda.
5) Golf, golf, golf. . . . . .need I say more?
6) Dad got these HORRIBLE season tickets to the BYU basketball games when I was about eight (they were seriously like 5 rows from the very top!). I LOVED GOING TO GAMES WITH DAD!! He let me buy a special treat, and I learned the rules of basketball from him. When I was older we went to football games together too, but by that time I had to share trips to the games with my younger siblings who were old enough by then to go to games.
7) When I was eighteen and my family moved to Colorado, I stayed in Utah to finish my senior year of high school. On my birthday, I walked past the front office at school and noticed a gorgeous flower arrangement in the window. About an hour later I got a note that there was something waiting in the office for me-- it was the flowers, with a special note from my Dad.
8) On my sixteenth birthday Dad took me out to dinner for my first date. I thought that was really special.
9) Dad always cooked the main course for Sunday dinner-- I think in another life he should have been a chef.
10) Dad's parents divorced when he was very young and his mom didn't have much money. He worked hard around Brigham City as soon as he was old enough to get a job (most certainly before 16).
11) Dad made it through college in 3 years, working the whole time, and used his leftover student loans and money he earned to send himself on a mission when he was 22.
I'm sure there's more, but I gotta go. LOVE YOU DAD!!
1) My parents going to the temple A LOT when I was growing up-- I liked babysitters!
2) The summer that Dad and I hiked for a half hour in the evenings (I was 12 or 13, I think). I remember Dad picking up empty soda cans and wrappers-- this made me more aware of my environment and how we should realize everyone enjoys earth together.
3) Dad giving me the '5 minute warning' before church while I was a teen. And then when I was late he said 'Time's up! Don't worry so much about how you look at church." He seriously got us all to church on time EVERY WEEK!! That simple thing showed me how important he thought the meetings were.
4) Dad getting up early on Saturdays to work in the yard. He always started the day off with a trip to the gas station for a soda.
5) Golf, golf, golf. . . . . .need I say more?
6) Dad got these HORRIBLE season tickets to the BYU basketball games when I was about eight (they were seriously like 5 rows from the very top!). I LOVED GOING TO GAMES WITH DAD!! He let me buy a special treat, and I learned the rules of basketball from him. When I was older we went to football games together too, but by that time I had to share trips to the games with my younger siblings who were old enough by then to go to games.
7) When I was eighteen and my family moved to Colorado, I stayed in Utah to finish my senior year of high school. On my birthday, I walked past the front office at school and noticed a gorgeous flower arrangement in the window. About an hour later I got a note that there was something waiting in the office for me-- it was the flowers, with a special note from my Dad.
8) On my sixteenth birthday Dad took me out to dinner for my first date. I thought that was really special.
9) Dad always cooked the main course for Sunday dinner-- I think in another life he should have been a chef.
10) Dad's parents divorced when he was very young and his mom didn't have much money. He worked hard around Brigham City as soon as he was old enough to get a job (most certainly before 16).
11) Dad made it through college in 3 years, working the whole time, and used his leftover student loans and money he earned to send himself on a mission when he was 22.
I'm sure there's more, but I gotta go. LOVE YOU DAD!!
Friday, June 13, 2008
The Babysitters Club
Does anyone else out there HATE trying to find a babysitter? I abhor this task because it takes about 2o calls to find someone who is a) home and b) available. Whenever I need to find someone it is an all day process. Your first pick is generally the older teen who can handle 2 5-year-olds AND a toddler, but, who am I kidding--the older teen ALWAYS has plans. So then you go to the second tier list: the younger, but still responsible teen (by younger I mean 12-14). They, of course, already were booked by Joe and Sally down the street 2 weeks ago because Sally is always planning weeks in advance. So then you try the disinterested teen who weedles out of sitting by coming up with some excuse (unless of course, their mom is in the background saying, "Give the Millars a break-- they NEED your help").
Today, after unsuccessfully trying all the teens in our neighborhood, I started calling newly married couples. Sadly, these are my best bet these days. I am sure they just love getting that call from Camilla and reluctantly (though happily on the phone) take on my charity case. Who am I kidding? They don't really want to spend their Friday evening with my kids as a practice run for the future with their own little munchkins-- no way, they've got FAR better things to do which will also help them practice for future families :)
So, I propose to any teen out there looking for a great business to read the Babysitters Club books. These popular books from my childhood brought together about 6 willing teens who met together one hour each week, during which time moms in the neighborhood could call and guarantee actually reaching a human being.
Today, after unsuccessfully trying all the teens in our neighborhood, I started calling newly married couples. Sadly, these are my best bet these days. I am sure they just love getting that call from Camilla and reluctantly (though happily on the phone) take on my charity case. Who am I kidding? They don't really want to spend their Friday evening with my kids as a practice run for the future with their own little munchkins-- no way, they've got FAR better things to do which will also help them practice for future families :)
So, I propose to any teen out there looking for a great business to read the Babysitters Club books. These popular books from my childhood brought together about 6 willing teens who met together one hour each week, during which time moms in the neighborhood could call and guarantee actually reaching a human being.
Monday, June 9, 2008
Why doesn't the media report the good news in Iraq?
I liked this article on CNN.com enough to post the link here.
Like it or not, we went into Iraq. As Americans I believe we have a responsibility to help fix the problems that were caused by our presence (though I also strongly believe that getting rid of an evil dictator, Saddam Hussein was ultimately in the best interests of the Iraqi people-- if not this generation, than generations to come). Some people think we should get out of there as soon as possible, but I truly believe that getting out before we helped to clean up country would have deliterious effects on the people there and eventually, Americans.
I don't know if it is America's place get rid of evil dictators, but I do believe America has a right to defend itself. If there was indeed an imminent threat to Americans posed by the regime of Saddam Hussein, we definitely had a right to contemplate a war. I know some people are concerned that we have totally ruined America's image in the sight of the world, especially in the middle east, by going to war, but terrorism and hatred toward America was around long before we stormed Iraq-- the 9/11 plans began in 1996--during the reign of Bill Clinton.
Regardless of your feelings about the war or our presence there, I believe the media has an obligation to let us know if the death toll is down. Every newscast should proclaim the fact that less soldiers and civilians were killed this year than last year.
People always get on Bush's case for never admitting his failures or his incoherent judgement, but fail to report when one of his decisions or policies like the surge has had a positive effect. I am not saying I agree with everything Bush has said or done, but I do believe that politicians and the press are letting their feelings about the war get in the way of reporting the facts (unless of course, the facts support their line of thinking).
When are politicians (and Americans in general--me too) going learn to let go of pride and work together for positive solutions-- if each side would just give a little, I think we'd be much closer to a solution than we are now!?!
Like it or not, we went into Iraq. As Americans I believe we have a responsibility to help fix the problems that were caused by our presence (though I also strongly believe that getting rid of an evil dictator, Saddam Hussein was ultimately in the best interests of the Iraqi people-- if not this generation, than generations to come). Some people think we should get out of there as soon as possible, but I truly believe that getting out before we helped to clean up country would have deliterious effects on the people there and eventually, Americans.
I don't know if it is America's place get rid of evil dictators, but I do believe America has a right to defend itself. If there was indeed an imminent threat to Americans posed by the regime of Saddam Hussein, we definitely had a right to contemplate a war. I know some people are concerned that we have totally ruined America's image in the sight of the world, especially in the middle east, by going to war, but terrorism and hatred toward America was around long before we stormed Iraq-- the 9/11 plans began in 1996--during the reign of Bill Clinton.
Regardless of your feelings about the war or our presence there, I believe the media has an obligation to let us know if the death toll is down. Every newscast should proclaim the fact that less soldiers and civilians were killed this year than last year.
People always get on Bush's case for never admitting his failures or his incoherent judgement, but fail to report when one of his decisions or policies like the surge has had a positive effect. I am not saying I agree with everything Bush has said or done, but I do believe that politicians and the press are letting their feelings about the war get in the way of reporting the facts (unless of course, the facts support their line of thinking).
When are politicians (and Americans in general--me too) going learn to let go of pride and work together for positive solutions-- if each side would just give a little, I think we'd be much closer to a solution than we are now!?!
Sunday, June 8, 2008
100 things to celebrate 100 posts!
When I first read JoAnna's blog, she had just posted her 109th post, and to celebrate she had included 109 things about herself. She encouraged her friends to do the same (now I am her friend via the world wide web).
I realized I am nearing my 100th post so here goes:
1) I have only lived outside of Utah for 7 months (6 during college summers and 1 in Ghana) of my life.
2) When people get to know me, they are surprised I am a 'Utah Mormon." (I don't know exactly what the Utah Mormon stereotype is, but aparently, I don't fit it).
3) When I was in high school I cut my hair really short and dyed it red for a latin ballroom competition. After I did that people thought I was from Mexico (During this time period I got lots of whistles from construction workers).
4) I am inherently lazy. I love to sit down and watch T.V. or do anything else non-productive. Every day, I have to force myself to do said productive things like getting dressed, doing housework, and anything else life requires.
5) Miraculously (considering #4), I finished my Bachelors and Masters in Microbiology.
6) My favorite candy bar is Hershey's Cookies and Creme (I love white chocolate).
7) When I was in junior high, I had a HUGE crush on Zach from Saved By The Bell. In college my crush was Matthew McConaughey. Now I have a crush on (besides my husband) the guy who plays Clark Kent in Smallville.
8) I hate urine in all its varieties-- especially dried out on the toilet.
9) Thus (see #8) my bathroom is the cleanest room in my house-- but don't go into any of the others!
10) When I was a biology and microbiology T.A. in college, I used colored chalk frequently on the board.
11) My worst fear is to become obese (I know it is extremely shallow-- I wish it was something more noble).
12) I like to exercise, but don't do it as frequently as I should.
13) The thing I consider to be my biggest weakness is that I worry too much about what other people think.
14) I often feel like I am still a teenager.
15) I love driving my white minivan.
16) I've never been to Disney World or Disneyland (but we are going to Disneyland in September).
17) My first job was being a food demonstrator in grocery stores.
18) The best food I demonstrated was Chex Muddy Buddies (they were premade in these giant bags and there were TONS left over that I got to take home).
19) I rear-ended a car when I was 16 on my way home from demonstrating at the grocery store. It was July 4th. The airbag went off and burnt my neck. The officer felt bad for me and didn't give me a ticket cause he said I reminded him of his teenage daughter.
20) I've only gotten one speeding ticket in my life on the way home from a friend's wedding in Idaho. I am still bitter about it--it was a speed trap outside of Pocatello!
21)I have an EXTREMELY difficult time saying no.
22)I am the oldest of 5-- one sister and three brothers.
23)I didn't play with dolls when I was a kid.
24) I was on the seventh grade track team. I ran the 400.
25) My mom is in the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (I know, I know that's not about me, but it is still cool).
26) The only boyfriend I ever had is the guy I am married to.
27) I've only kissed 3 guys (besides my Dad, Grandpa, and kids).
28) During my senior year of high school my parents moved to Colorado and I stayed behind in Utah because there wasn't any dance programs at the high school I'd be going to there. I learned soooooo much from the Mansfields and consider them my second family (though I don't see or talk to them nearly as much as I should nowdays).
29) I drove a Ford Ranger in high school that we bought from Jim Usevitch (a BYU basketball player). It had 2 gas tanks-- mine was in front and Dad's was in back (don't tell Dad, but once I 'borrowed' his gas).
30) My favorite color to wear is red. Though I really like brown thesedays. . . .
31) I didn't undergo any therapy to get pregnant with my twins. They were a complete surprise!
32) People often ask me if my twins are identical (they are a girl and boy).
33) One day I'd like a seafoam green and brown comforter on my bed. I just like those colors together.
34) When I was a kids we had a gigantic tree in our backyard that I'd climb for hours-- no seriously, my cousins and I would bring blankets up there and make rooms-- it was AWESOME!
35) I am a horrible swimmer and don't feel very comfortable in water.
36) When I was in high school I was obsessed with being tan and would mow the yard in my swimsuit and shorts with tanning oil slathered all over my body (seriously, I have to GROAN when I think of this picture) (in my defense, it was a modest swimsuit).
37) Now I slather my body with sunscreen when I go outside.
38) I pulled 2 all-nighters in the Widtsoe building at BYU during college (the ladies rooms come fully equipped with mattresses).
39) During my Masters degree I had lots of cancer cells I took care of and had to go feed them on Sundays. I called them my little pets (sadly, this is true, and admittedly, VERY NERDY).
40) I took the MCAT in college and got a pretty good score-- but now I am married to a general surgeon.
41) I wanted to be an OB/GYN when I grew up (after watching D go through med school, I don't anymore).
42) I get along much better with women than men. I love my girlfriends.
43) I refuse to watch horror movies.
44) I've never been to a rock concert.
45) I love newborn babies-- if only they didn't poop so much and keep you awake at night.
46) I hated babysitting when I was a teen, but was asked to sit ALL THE TIME. That's what happens when you are too responsible and can't say no.
47) I admire people who keep their houses pristene-- and I seriously can't figure out how they do it. They always downplay this talent and say it's easy, just requires time, but I've got time and it ain't easy for me!
48) I sometimes struggle when I people ask me what I do, and I reply I am a stay-at-home-mom. I wish my job title was more cool (again, I know, so shallow!)
49) However, I choose to be a stay-at-home-mom and wouldn't change it for the world.
50) My husband and I have fought about the same 2 things since we were married.
51) My husband and I dated for 3 months and were engaged for 3 months before we got married. (in my defense, I knew him for 10 months before we started dating).
52) I wish I had my five-year-old daughter's arms. They are so sculpted and young.
53) I snort when I laugh too hard.
54) I randomly break into song to entertain my kids. Oh, who am I kidding? I do it to entertain myself too.
55) My daughter told me today that I eat too much candy.
56) I know I drink too much diet soda.
57) I love that my husband can use medical and scientific terms and I understand him.
58) My favorite job was teaching basic microbiology to nursing students at Westminster College here in SLC (I only taught 2 semesters, though).
59) Baked goods, like cookies and doughnuts, are my weakness.
60) I love a good salad and would choose that over a hamburger any day.
61) I want to join a bowling league.
62) I have 3 'most embarrassing moments.' Maybe someday I will blog them and you can vote which one is truly the MOST embarrassing.
63) My favorite calling was Young Women's girl's camp director (I did it for three years).
64) If I was male, I would play football. I love football.
65) My best class in high school was English.
66) My favorite class in high school was Art History.
67) My favorite class in college was Book Binding.
68) My favorite memories with my Dad were hiking with him when I was a teen.
69) If I could redo college I would take an extra year and do study abroad and take more fun classes that didn't help with my major at all!
70) My husband proposed to me in the parking lot of the chemistry building at BYU (romantic, eh?)
71) I secretly love going to the zoo as much, probably more than my kids.
72) The thing I cook best is Sweet and Sour Chicken (mmm, mmm good--recipe courtesy of Vicki M.)
73) I was in a card exchange for 4 years where we made 20 homemade cards a month and traded with each other. I quit last year-- sad times.
74) I hate shopping at Wal-Mart.
75) I will feel like I have moved up in the world when my refrigerator dispenses ice and cold water.
76) I love that my baby is named Roger cause no one else has that name (oh yeah, except Grandmpa).
77) My favorite flavor of popsicle is banana.
78) I don't like banana's.
79) My favorite time with my kids is reading them stories. I like to do voices.
80) I want to bungee jump someday.
81) I love to sleep in.
82) I love caroling with my family at Christmas time.
83) I have gotten in a fender bender every year since I've been married (embarrassing, but true-- this includes hitting the car on my house twice and my fence once).
84) I like speaking in church.
85) I want to write a book-- published or not!
86) I check my blogger Dashboard 3 times a day.
87) My laptop has a home in a desk near my kitchen entry.
88) I can't draw at all. Even my stick figures look wrong.
89) I play the piano when I am feeling overwhelmed.
90) Secretly I love that my little daughter can out-toot her Dad-- it is a gift she inherited from mom.
91) I've never found a pair of jeans I've been in love with, yet. Maybe someday when I can shop the more expensive racks. For now, I stay away from them-- too tempting.
92) My favorite vegetable is squash.
93) I like to wear skirts in the summer.
94) I just realized I am just a normal girl-- no really, what a funny thought that everyone else has thoughts and feelings and lives just like me. It's not that I think I'm superwoman, but as I am getting older I realize my own strengths and weaknesses and can appreciate other people's as well.
95) If I had to choose between chocolate and vanilla, I'd choose vanilla--no contest.
96) I am really proud of my husband (and yes, the talk in church today was on pride--guilty as charged!).
97) When I was in Paris, I spent a whole day at EuroDisney--not the Louvre. It was the end of an 8 week trip (most of it spent in Ghana) and I was tired and (see #16) had never had the Disney experience before. My Art History teacher would have been appalled. (in my defense, my husband was really sick of museums).
98) I want to go with my sister-in-laws and our daughters to Europe when they are teens.
99) I hope to be able to pay for the trip (#98). Thank you very much Dr. D.
100) If you are still with me, I am so grateful for my family and my blessings.
I realized I am nearing my 100th post so here goes:
1) I have only lived outside of Utah for 7 months (6 during college summers and 1 in Ghana) of my life.
2) When people get to know me, they are surprised I am a 'Utah Mormon." (I don't know exactly what the Utah Mormon stereotype is, but aparently, I don't fit it).
3) When I was in high school I cut my hair really short and dyed it red for a latin ballroom competition. After I did that people thought I was from Mexico (During this time period I got lots of whistles from construction workers).
4) I am inherently lazy. I love to sit down and watch T.V. or do anything else non-productive. Every day, I have to force myself to do said productive things like getting dressed, doing housework, and anything else life requires.
5) Miraculously (considering #4), I finished my Bachelors and Masters in Microbiology.
6) My favorite candy bar is Hershey's Cookies and Creme (I love white chocolate).
7) When I was in junior high, I had a HUGE crush on Zach from Saved By The Bell. In college my crush was Matthew McConaughey. Now I have a crush on (besides my husband) the guy who plays Clark Kent in Smallville.
8) I hate urine in all its varieties-- especially dried out on the toilet.
9) Thus (see #8) my bathroom is the cleanest room in my house-- but don't go into any of the others!
10) When I was a biology and microbiology T.A. in college, I used colored chalk frequently on the board.
11) My worst fear is to become obese (I know it is extremely shallow-- I wish it was something more noble).
12) I like to exercise, but don't do it as frequently as I should.
13) The thing I consider to be my biggest weakness is that I worry too much about what other people think.
14) I often feel like I am still a teenager.
15) I love driving my white minivan.
16) I've never been to Disney World or Disneyland (but we are going to Disneyland in September).
17) My first job was being a food demonstrator in grocery stores.
18) The best food I demonstrated was Chex Muddy Buddies (they were premade in these giant bags and there were TONS left over that I got to take home).
19) I rear-ended a car when I was 16 on my way home from demonstrating at the grocery store. It was July 4th. The airbag went off and burnt my neck. The officer felt bad for me and didn't give me a ticket cause he said I reminded him of his teenage daughter.
20) I've only gotten one speeding ticket in my life on the way home from a friend's wedding in Idaho. I am still bitter about it--it was a speed trap outside of Pocatello!
21)I have an EXTREMELY difficult time saying no.
22)I am the oldest of 5-- one sister and three brothers.
23)I didn't play with dolls when I was a kid.
24) I was on the seventh grade track team. I ran the 400.
25) My mom is in the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (I know, I know that's not about me, but it is still cool).
26) The only boyfriend I ever had is the guy I am married to.
27) I've only kissed 3 guys (besides my Dad, Grandpa, and kids).
28) During my senior year of high school my parents moved to Colorado and I stayed behind in Utah because there wasn't any dance programs at the high school I'd be going to there. I learned soooooo much from the Mansfields and consider them my second family (though I don't see or talk to them nearly as much as I should nowdays).
29) I drove a Ford Ranger in high school that we bought from Jim Usevitch (a BYU basketball player). It had 2 gas tanks-- mine was in front and Dad's was in back (don't tell Dad, but once I 'borrowed' his gas).
30) My favorite color to wear is red. Though I really like brown thesedays. . . .
31) I didn't undergo any therapy to get pregnant with my twins. They were a complete surprise!
32) People often ask me if my twins are identical (they are a girl and boy).
33) One day I'd like a seafoam green and brown comforter on my bed. I just like those colors together.
34) When I was a kids we had a gigantic tree in our backyard that I'd climb for hours-- no seriously, my cousins and I would bring blankets up there and make rooms-- it was AWESOME!
35) I am a horrible swimmer and don't feel very comfortable in water.
36) When I was in high school I was obsessed with being tan and would mow the yard in my swimsuit and shorts with tanning oil slathered all over my body (seriously, I have to GROAN when I think of this picture) (in my defense, it was a modest swimsuit).
37) Now I slather my body with sunscreen when I go outside.
38) I pulled 2 all-nighters in the Widtsoe building at BYU during college (the ladies rooms come fully equipped with mattresses).
39) During my Masters degree I had lots of cancer cells I took care of and had to go feed them on Sundays. I called them my little pets (sadly, this is true, and admittedly, VERY NERDY).
40) I took the MCAT in college and got a pretty good score-- but now I am married to a general surgeon.
41) I wanted to be an OB/GYN when I grew up (after watching D go through med school, I don't anymore).
42) I get along much better with women than men. I love my girlfriends.
43) I refuse to watch horror movies.
44) I've never been to a rock concert.
45) I love newborn babies-- if only they didn't poop so much and keep you awake at night.
46) I hated babysitting when I was a teen, but was asked to sit ALL THE TIME. That's what happens when you are too responsible and can't say no.
47) I admire people who keep their houses pristene-- and I seriously can't figure out how they do it. They always downplay this talent and say it's easy, just requires time, but I've got time and it ain't easy for me!
48) I sometimes struggle when I people ask me what I do, and I reply I am a stay-at-home-mom. I wish my job title was more cool (again, I know, so shallow!)
49) However, I choose to be a stay-at-home-mom and wouldn't change it for the world.
50) My husband and I have fought about the same 2 things since we were married.
51) My husband and I dated for 3 months and were engaged for 3 months before we got married. (in my defense, I knew him for 10 months before we started dating).
52) I wish I had my five-year-old daughter's arms. They are so sculpted and young.
53) I snort when I laugh too hard.
54) I randomly break into song to entertain my kids. Oh, who am I kidding? I do it to entertain myself too.
55) My daughter told me today that I eat too much candy.
56) I know I drink too much diet soda.
57) I love that my husband can use medical and scientific terms and I understand him.
58) My favorite job was teaching basic microbiology to nursing students at Westminster College here in SLC (I only taught 2 semesters, though).
59) Baked goods, like cookies and doughnuts, are my weakness.
60) I love a good salad and would choose that over a hamburger any day.
61) I want to join a bowling league.
62) I have 3 'most embarrassing moments.' Maybe someday I will blog them and you can vote which one is truly the MOST embarrassing.
63) My favorite calling was Young Women's girl's camp director (I did it for three years).
64) If I was male, I would play football. I love football.
65) My best class in high school was English.
66) My favorite class in high school was Art History.
67) My favorite class in college was Book Binding.
68) My favorite memories with my Dad were hiking with him when I was a teen.
69) If I could redo college I would take an extra year and do study abroad and take more fun classes that didn't help with my major at all!
70) My husband proposed to me in the parking lot of the chemistry building at BYU (romantic, eh?)
71) I secretly love going to the zoo as much, probably more than my kids.
72) The thing I cook best is Sweet and Sour Chicken (mmm, mmm good--recipe courtesy of Vicki M.)
73) I was in a card exchange for 4 years where we made 20 homemade cards a month and traded with each other. I quit last year-- sad times.
74) I hate shopping at Wal-Mart.
75) I will feel like I have moved up in the world when my refrigerator dispenses ice and cold water.
76) I love that my baby is named Roger cause no one else has that name (oh yeah, except Grandmpa).
77) My favorite flavor of popsicle is banana.
78) I don't like banana's.
79) My favorite time with my kids is reading them stories. I like to do voices.
80) I want to bungee jump someday.
81) I love to sleep in.
82) I love caroling with my family at Christmas time.
83) I have gotten in a fender bender every year since I've been married (embarrassing, but true-- this includes hitting the car on my house twice and my fence once).
84) I like speaking in church.
85) I want to write a book-- published or not!
86) I check my blogger Dashboard 3 times a day.
87) My laptop has a home in a desk near my kitchen entry.
88) I can't draw at all. Even my stick figures look wrong.
89) I play the piano when I am feeling overwhelmed.
90) Secretly I love that my little daughter can out-toot her Dad-- it is a gift she inherited from mom.
91) I've never found a pair of jeans I've been in love with, yet. Maybe someday when I can shop the more expensive racks. For now, I stay away from them-- too tempting.
92) My favorite vegetable is squash.
93) I like to wear skirts in the summer.
94) I just realized I am just a normal girl-- no really, what a funny thought that everyone else has thoughts and feelings and lives just like me. It's not that I think I'm superwoman, but as I am getting older I realize my own strengths and weaknesses and can appreciate other people's as well.
95) If I had to choose between chocolate and vanilla, I'd choose vanilla--no contest.
96) I am really proud of my husband (and yes, the talk in church today was on pride--guilty as charged!).
97) When I was in Paris, I spent a whole day at EuroDisney--not the Louvre. It was the end of an 8 week trip (most of it spent in Ghana) and I was tired and (see #16) had never had the Disney experience before. My Art History teacher would have been appalled. (in my defense, my husband was really sick of museums).
98) I want to go with my sister-in-laws and our daughters to Europe when they are teens.
99) I hope to be able to pay for the trip (#98). Thank you very much Dr. D.
100) If you are still with me, I am so grateful for my family and my blessings.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Dr. D-- the 'patient'
Two weeks ago my husband came home and said, "Well, I made an appointment with Sklow for next week."
"Okay," I say, "Isn't he the weird colorectal doc?"
"Yes. It feels like I am pooping glass and two of my stools today were painted with blood." (Yes, if you are thinking this is too much information, so was I.) He elaborates furthur, "Yeah, I would look at my own anus if I could, but I can't, so Sklow will have to do the dirty work." If you are picturing my wonderful husband bent over backward trying to look in between his legs, I am sorry, but I guarantee he tried it. To no avail. Thus, the appointment.
Fast forward one week (last week). D calls me at 4:00 PM on Wednesday. "I'm in the waiting room at Sklow's clinic. I gave myself an enema an hour ago-- that was weird." He added some more, but I will spare you the details. He calls me back at 5:00, "Bad news: Sklow couldn't find the source of my blood, I really thought he'd find a fissure. To be safe, I've got to do a colonoscopy."
I'm thinking, 'A Colonoscopy? On a 30-year-old?' but say, "That stinks. Literally-- that STINKS."
So today was the big day. D worked out his schedule to get today off (why was that so 'easy' when it is impossible to get weddings, holidays, or other such events off?) Last night involved lots of cramps for D and quick runs (no pun intended) to the bathroom. I left for an hour in the evening and when I came back the kids explained to me that Dad was going to have a camera in his bum tomorrow. (thank you so much for being so open with the kids). I mentioned to a neighbor that D was getting his colonoscopy today and he said, "Oh, I need one too." (he's about 50). Later that night, the kids told Dad that Gordon (our neighbor) was also going to get a camera in his bum, so Dad wouldn't be alone.
This morning I woke up to the kids talking with Dad in the bathroom. D is sitting on the toilet, giving them a play-by-play of what he was doing, "Did you hear that? It sounded like pee, but it wasn't pee, it came from my bum. It is liquid poo (Eliza adds, "Ewwww."). I walk into the bathroom and say, "Twins, what are you doing? Give Dad some privacy."
D defends them, "It's okay, they were just curious and I was explaining to them what was happening." Since when did a Dad who was on the toilet, experiencing the effects of osmotic diarrhea have to explain this to a 5-year-old? "Get out, kids!" I say, and give D 'the look.' You know, 'the look'-- a mixture of disdain, with the eyes rolling (secretly trying not to chuckle at my dorky husband). When D emerges from the bathroom he announces, "Well, the phosphosoda has done its job: my poops are completely liquid and completely clear."
We arrived at the hospital just after 10:30 and left at 1:30 (3 hours--nearly all of it was wait-time.) D was like, "I don't get what the big deal is about waiting-- you get to just sit there and watch T.V." Poor guy apparently doesn't get enough sitting time in his life unless it involves a mandatory colonoscopy-- ah, the injustices of being a surgeon-in-training. He said the experience was not bad at all--he didn't remember anything and woke up feeling "refreshed" (meaning the anesthesia makes you feel well-rested). He was also STARVING because he couldn't eat anything solid yesterday or for breakfast today, and all food particles in his system were, ahem, flushed away last night.
The verdict: he was clear, polyp and cancer-free! We assume that the source of his "glass poops" and blood in his stools was a quickly healing fissure (think the cracks on the edge of your mouth when it gets dry, only LOWER)? I used the excuse of Dad recovering and got take-out for lunch and dinner. During dinner the kids asked if he still had a camera in his bum . . . .
"Okay," I say, "Isn't he the weird colorectal doc?"
"Yes. It feels like I am pooping glass and two of my stools today were painted with blood." (Yes, if you are thinking this is too much information, so was I.) He elaborates furthur, "Yeah, I would look at my own anus if I could, but I can't, so Sklow will have to do the dirty work." If you are picturing my wonderful husband bent over backward trying to look in between his legs, I am sorry, but I guarantee he tried it. To no avail. Thus, the appointment.
Fast forward one week (last week). D calls me at 4:00 PM on Wednesday. "I'm in the waiting room at Sklow's clinic. I gave myself an enema an hour ago-- that was weird." He added some more, but I will spare you the details. He calls me back at 5:00, "Bad news: Sklow couldn't find the source of my blood, I really thought he'd find a fissure. To be safe, I've got to do a colonoscopy."
I'm thinking, 'A Colonoscopy? On a 30-year-old?' but say, "That stinks. Literally-- that STINKS."
So today was the big day. D worked out his schedule to get today off (why was that so 'easy' when it is impossible to get weddings, holidays, or other such events off?) Last night involved lots of cramps for D and quick runs (no pun intended) to the bathroom. I left for an hour in the evening and when I came back the kids explained to me that Dad was going to have a camera in his bum tomorrow. (thank you so much for being so open with the kids). I mentioned to a neighbor that D was getting his colonoscopy today and he said, "Oh, I need one too." (he's about 50). Later that night, the kids told Dad that Gordon (our neighbor) was also going to get a camera in his bum, so Dad wouldn't be alone.
This morning I woke up to the kids talking with Dad in the bathroom. D is sitting on the toilet, giving them a play-by-play of what he was doing, "Did you hear that? It sounded like pee, but it wasn't pee, it came from my bum. It is liquid poo (Eliza adds, "Ewwww."). I walk into the bathroom and say, "Twins, what are you doing? Give Dad some privacy."
D defends them, "It's okay, they were just curious and I was explaining to them what was happening." Since when did a Dad who was on the toilet, experiencing the effects of osmotic diarrhea have to explain this to a 5-year-old? "Get out, kids!" I say, and give D 'the look.' You know, 'the look'-- a mixture of disdain, with the eyes rolling (secretly trying not to chuckle at my dorky husband). When D emerges from the bathroom he announces, "Well, the phosphosoda has done its job: my poops are completely liquid and completely clear."
We arrived at the hospital just after 10:30 and left at 1:30 (3 hours--nearly all of it was wait-time.) D was like, "I don't get what the big deal is about waiting-- you get to just sit there and watch T.V." Poor guy apparently doesn't get enough sitting time in his life unless it involves a mandatory colonoscopy-- ah, the injustices of being a surgeon-in-training. He said the experience was not bad at all--he didn't remember anything and woke up feeling "refreshed" (meaning the anesthesia makes you feel well-rested). He was also STARVING because he couldn't eat anything solid yesterday or for breakfast today, and all food particles in his system were, ahem, flushed away last night.
The verdict: he was clear, polyp and cancer-free! We assume that the source of his "glass poops" and blood in his stools was a quickly healing fissure (think the cracks on the edge of your mouth when it gets dry, only LOWER)? I used the excuse of Dad recovering and got take-out for lunch and dinner. During dinner the kids asked if he still had a camera in his bum . . . .
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Paul, look at Sadee go!
Jodi (D's sister) is in town and they've been trying to get Sadee to ride. D has developed this ingenius (just ask him) contraption-- a rope tied to the end of the bike (amazing, isn't it?). He taught Eliza a few weeks ago and is working on Davis. We just tried out the invention on Sadee (Jodi and Paul's daughter), and it worked!
Words of wisdom from Grandpa Doc
Today D's sister, Suzee blessed her second child, Emery. All of D's siblings were there (except his second oldest brother), the "adopted" Marcum family, and a bunch of the step-siblings were there as well. After Sacrament meeting, we all went to Suzee's house for lunch and fun. At one point in time, there were 18 kids in Suzee's family room (it is a seriously small room)!! (most of them were watching Couper and Spencer play guitar hero). Suzee was pacing back and forth because she doesn't handle other people's kids in her house very well. I thought it was funny.
Before the blessing on the food, Grandpa Doc, Roger C., told us that he wanted to bear his testimony because it has been so long since the many family members have gathered together. He told us that he had a testimony of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ and he wanted to give us some advice. He said that we all needed to gain or enrich our testimonies as individuals if we all wanted to live someday as an eternal family. He told us the best way he knew to keep our testimonies strong was to attend our church meetings, read the scriptures, and pray to our Heavenly Father. He reminded us that when we begin to neglect one of these things, our testimony begins to fail. He encouraged us all to incorporate these things into our lives. I felt a very warm and peaceful feeling as he spoke and I know it was the Holy Ghost bearing witness to me of the truthfulness of his words. Thanks for your example and heritage Roger! Also a big kudos to the late Diane who helped raise these great kids-- I am the thankful recipient of her good mothering!
Before the blessing on the food, Grandpa Doc, Roger C., told us that he wanted to bear his testimony because it has been so long since the many family members have gathered together. He told us that he had a testimony of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ and he wanted to give us some advice. He said that we all needed to gain or enrich our testimonies as individuals if we all wanted to live someday as an eternal family. He told us the best way he knew to keep our testimonies strong was to attend our church meetings, read the scriptures, and pray to our Heavenly Father. He reminded us that when we begin to neglect one of these things, our testimony begins to fail. He encouraged us all to incorporate these things into our lives. I felt a very warm and peaceful feeling as he spoke and I know it was the Holy Ghost bearing witness to me of the truthfulness of his words. Thanks for your example and heritage Roger! Also a big kudos to the late Diane who helped raise these great kids-- I am the thankful recipient of her good mothering!
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