I am encouraged today, because we went to a new doctor. The visit was for Clare's flu/cold, but I brought up the subject of her eczema, which has gotten really really bad lately (without a change in her diet??) And this doctor encouraged me to get a second opinion from a pediatric allergist as well as recommending a pediatric dermotologist. I may be chasing after answers where there are none, but it seems so much more hopeful to have these visits on the horizon. I know that one thing I am going to request is a blood test, because it's more definitive. I don't know why the other allergist never recommended this?

It's so sad to see Clare hit the floor in frustration or cry because she is so itchy and can't relieve it by scratching....so I am willing to do what it takes but what is that?......pray for wisdom for the doctors and for me. There are so many factors (chemicals in the house like the lysol that I use to wash the tub, mildew, mold, pollen and allergens outside, her soy formula has tons of possible culprits, she could even be having a reaction to the tylenol that I gave her for her fever.) Let me say that as horrible as this sounds I am grateful that she has never had a reaction that was anaphalactic, caused swelling to breathing problems!

Lately Clare is pointing to our noses and saying, "hah?" as if to say "what is that?" We say, "nose!" Then she will do the same thing for our mouth, eyes, and ears. She is imitating all kinds of things.....she clicks her tongue. And this morning she put some pretend food from a little bowl she was holding into my mouth and her mouth :-) Can they understand the difference between pretend and real at this age?

Emma is amazing with Clare. She really is. She's patient when I have to take care of Clare, she holds her hand and and gives Clare the toys that she is playing with if I ask her. I think that she instinctively knows that Clare does not feel good. Emma protested the other day when I firmly told Clare "NO" and directed her away from the computer wires. She said, "Mommy, it's ok, I will keep her away from the computer, you don't have to spank her." (I wasn't going to spank Clare, but it's cute that she's so protective and fond of Clare.) Emma's begun to make up little songs, and when I ask her where she learned it, she'll say, "God gave me that song." "God is in my heart!" And I don't know why she said this, but this morning, when I said that Daddy went to work, she said, " When he gets home, I am going to tickle him!!!!"

This Tuesday at story time at the library, Ms. Linda was late, so there just happened to be a well know local storyteller there and we were treated to some very cool stories told by an expert! I have never seen the kids pay attention for as long as they did with him. They were hanging on his words!! Made me think of the ancient (and not so ancient in the Appalachian mountains) traditions of oral history and how there must still be a part of us that can't get enough of a good story!!!!

Speaking of stories...I just finished reading, "The Shack" . GREAT BOOK!

Doug and I have an anniversary coming up soon! It happens to fall close to his spring break and we are thrilled to be getting away for a little quality family time!! This will be a much deserved break for someone who works so hard with absolutely no complaint! I appreciate Doug so much! I remember the days when all we had to do was hop in the car with little planning and we could go on an adventure and spend time together. We are in a stage now where it does take a forceful determination to create these times together... and that might just make us appreciate them all that much more :-)

Easter

After having the flu we all decided to get out and enjoy the beautiful weather and get some fresh air!! Discovered a great little loop hike at Blue Ridge Lake.

We got chickens as you will see below...I finally gave into Doug's wishes. If had his way, we would have had them a years ago. I am actually really excited about them and about eating fresh eggs, which I have sampled and I have to admit have more flavor :-)






Clare's favorite things to do is to close the door and then open it and laugh at herself!!!

Can you guess what this gift is? :)

Josh is going to kick me for putting this one up...he was in the middle of chewing something. I thought is was cute that Emma jumped on their lap in the middle of their "couple picture".

Katie and one of her bridesmaids! Emma is going to be the flower girl!!

Clare is so close to walking!! This is her little easter dress!!

5 Teeth!

Caught red handed :-)