Had A Blessed Christmas

We were truly blessed this year! We had a wonderful Christmas in Texarkana with Larry's family. His entire family was in town, except for one cousin and his family...Ben, you were missed. We had 30+ people at Larry's parent's house Christmas Eve. Here are a few pictures from Christmas. I will post more later this weekend.

So much fun together

What do you do when it is raining outside?

Play in the bath tub with your clothes on of course

Natalie, Ashley and Kalei

Probably one of Natalie's favorite gifts, yes that is bandaids...Princess ones at that

The entire group, minus a few hidden heads

Carter, Zac and Caleb

All the girls get matching pjs for Christmas morning

Santa

Just not a lot to say about the picture above, expect Natalie does not like Santa up close and personal. Carter was so excited to see Santa and Natalie not so much. However, Carter could not smile, because he was to worried about what was going on with his sister...too funny!

Merry Christmas!

I hope everyone has safe travels and a wonderful time with family and friends!

Snow Angels, Character? and Pink

Amarillo got snow this week and I could not hold back my kids from going outside. Yes, I know it was only 15 degrees, not including the wind-chill, but they had been asking all day. On the plus side, I only let them stay out for about 10 minutes. I am sure they would have stayed all day, but I was freezing. I so wish I could have that kid-shield that makes you never get cold as long as you are doing something super fun.

We had another surprise today; more snow! Only this time, it really is not that much, just cold. I guess I can't complain, because it really does feel like Christmas right now with this weather.

Speaking of Christmas, our Elf, Character, made his appearance the day after Thanksgiving this year. Last year, Carter was not that into, so when I forgot to move Character a few times, he did not notice really. This year is a different story. Carter prays every night that Character has a safe trip to the North Pole and back.

I have also had to hide all of our presents this year. Natalie already unwrapped two of them, luckily the were not hers. Plus, Carter has hit that age where the size of the box is the biggest deal...the bigger the better!

He sent his first official Santa letter this year or should I say my first Santa letter, as I wrote it and he signed his name. We have not been to see Santa yet, but plan on doing that within the next week. Not sure how Natalie will be, but guess we will find out.

Natalie has been doing great other than the fact she is a typical 2 year old. She is all "GIRL." I am not sure if I plan the nurses in CV-ICU for saying she was drama at the 8 weeks old or if it is my dad up in Heaven, laughing because he finally able to have a super girly girl.

There have been days, that I look up to Heaven and say, "Dad, give me a break." When we found out I was having a girl, my dad called me that night asking if I would be jewelry on her, bows, girly jackets and lace socks (thank goodness they really do not make those anymore or at least not where I shop). I told him, we would compromise. I guess now that he is in Heaven, he thinks all beats are off.

Let me go into more detail on this "girly girl" business. The minute she wakes up, she wants a pink bow in her hair, but not just one bow, two bows. Next, we want our shoes on with our pjs; any shoes work, not just sparkly ones (which we only own one pair). She then proceeds to ask for her necklace (a little cross from James Avery) and her bracelets, all 4 of them! I do not mind at least one of the bracelets, because that is her medical alert one (will talk about that another day). You think that is bad, she then wants her jacket, yes we are still in the pjs and have no where to go. Also, I would like to thank my sister-in-law, Starlyn, for the jacket, bet you never thought it would get such good use. We sleep in sometimes too.

I told Larry the other night, that I see a bright pink room in our future. I realized this after we were almost late for helping with Carter's field trip, because Natalie could not find her sunglasses and purse to leave the house. I am dreading when she starts getting into dolls; all of their accessories, I am done for.

Not to worry, picture soon. I have been trying to get a good picture of Natalie with all of her gear and accessories on, but by the time I get my phone she either has her sunglasses off or is busy putting things in and our of her purse to look at me. I will succeed on a picture soon and will post for your pleasure.

Well, we are off for a weekend of fun! Nothing to exciting expect a few Christmas parties, a soccer game and 2 birthday parties. Have a great weekend!

Battle Scars

I took this from another Heart Mom (Thanks Carie)...

Most Congential Heart Defect children don't look sick. You can't tell them apart from other kids, but their scars are very real. Most have faced more in their short lives than any person should. Congential Heart Defects kill twice as many children every year than all childhood cancers combined.

Beneath their shirts are battle scars, constant reminders of their battles to live. They have a strength, courage...and resilience that we can only be amazed by. Show our kids they are important, that their hearts matter.

I have so many people tell me Natalie looks great and she does. She is an amazing little girl! From the outside, she looks normal, but her scar is a constent reminder of all she has gone through and what all she still has to go through. Thank you all again, for your prayers over my little miracle!

Thankful

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving! We had a wonderful time, spent with lots of family and friends. We had about 28 adults and 9 kids at my mother's house for lunch.

Once again, I have not posted in a couple of weeks. Carter caught a nice virus that put him out for a wee.! He is finally better, thank goodness! Natalie has continued to stay healthy; thank you Lord!

We have not really had a lot go on since I last posted. So, I thought I would sum up November with what I am thankful for...

I am thankful for my amazing husband, that puts up with me and loves me unconditionally.

I am thankful for my family and friends, because without all of you, I would not be who I am today.

I am thankful for the men and women in our military service and their families that gave up their time with their loved ones, so that we could celebrate Thanksgiving without any worries.

I am thankful for my two children, who make me complete.

I can not say enough, how thankful I am to all the prayer warriors and hospital staff at Children's who helped saved my little angel. God made her special with half a heart and continues to remind me how special she is daily!

Last of all, but most important...I am thankful for our Lord and Savior!

Great Article on the Effects of Kids with Complex CHD

I have always wondered about Natalie's low oxygen and being on bypass three different times. I asked the nurses and doctors about learning disabilities and other issues she might have in the future. No one can really be certain. Right now, Natalie has hit all of her milestones and seems to be doing excellent! She can now count to ten and say her ABC's.

I know God is in control and we can handle whatever come our way with Natalie. Anyway, this is a great article and wanted to share it.

http://www.chop.edu/export/download/pdfs/articles/cardiac/long-term-effects-chd.pdf

October Wrap Up

I know it has been a while since my last post and I can honestly say that I have thought about it, but time is just not my friend here lately.

We have had a great October, besides the few illness that have struck my family, but I guess it is that time of year. Carter has had strep twice now, but I am praying he is finally well. I will know for sure this next Thursday, because Thursdays seem to be his day to get sick. Natalie has battle a sinus infection and currently is on medication for thrush. I know, I thought only babies could thrush, I have now learned something knew. I am getting over a nice cold as well. I remembered why I do not love the fall/winter sometimes. I have now bought vitamins with extra vitamin c and immunity boost. It is time for my family to be well for a while.

We have continued to be busy with our soccer stud! He has one more outdoor soccer game, but has started playing on an indoor team with a group of his friends. Why would I want a weekend with nothing to do?

Halloween was so much this year! Carter totally got into and for once was not scared. Both kids had Halloween parties at school. Carter was Spiderman this year (however, we got batman painted on our face?) and Natalie well, did not really dress up. I tried, she just was not into this year, so I did not push.

Amarillo got it's first snow as well! We had an 80 degree day and 2 days later had snow, only to be gone a day later...got to love Amarillo weather. Sad news, my kids did not get to play in it. The snow happened to fall on a day that Carter had just gotten strep. I felt so bad, that I let him walk to the mailbox with me.

Below our a few pictures that sum up the end of October in our family...

I hope everyone is having a great start to November! I will try to post more often, if I can get time to allow it. I thought for now I would leave you all with a thankful note...

I am so thankful for my family, I do not know who I would be without them. I am thankful my kids can talk and hear, even if they do not always listen. I am truly thankful for my little miracle, that every day surprises me and reminds me that God is good!

My Soccer Stud

My little man started soccer fall. His first came was priceless. He knows how to kick the ball, but a game is totally different. He was lost and spend a good portion of the time talking up his other teammates.

Larry has been working with Carter and with practice, Carter has figured it out. He still has some ways to go, but he is doing awesome!

This weekend, Carter had two games, one Saturday and one today. He scored 3 goals today! I must say, this mama is super proud!

A Dallas Weekend

The carousel at the Dallas Zoo
Here is to looking at you

Natalie's first ice cream cone

The clean before the storm...Luke and Carter

Luke, Carter, Gigi, Natalie and Kate

Last Thursday, we loaded up the car full of bags, kids; even my mom and headed to Dallas for a busy weekend of doctor's appointments, family and fun.

I have started to realize that my kids are not perfect angels in the car like I always prayed they would be. In fact, my kids talk almost the entire time, which is 5 to 6 hours to Dallas with them. I try to be that good mom and pack healthy snacks to keep their tummy's full, but the only thing they want and it does keep them quiet is CANDY. I did get a few healthy snacks in before the airheads and ring pops came out...whatever keeps them quiet and happy the longest, sometimes is the best answer in my book.

We were welcomed to Dallas on Thursday night with a nice thunderstorm. I forgot what thunder even sounded like. Carter was too cute, he asked Larry what the lights in the sky were. Larry of course giving him the best answer, "It is God turning the lights on and off in Heaven." Carter thought that was the coolest thing he had ever heard or seen. I love the innocence of kids!

Friday was a full day at Children's Medical Center, our home away from home. We started off the visit with the ENT department. We had a new doctor, Dr. Mitchell this visit and he was wonderful. Natalie's right ear tube is about 50% out. Dr. Mitchell feels that within the next few months both should be out. Please pray that Natalie does okay with her ear tubes out and does not start having infections again. He said that if she starts having a lot of ear infections, they normally like to be proactive with heart kids, so that means more tubes, but for now time will tell.

After ENT we had about an hour to spare, which really is not a lot of time by the time you load kids into car seats, so we decided to just stay at Children's and enjoy the trains and playground for a bit and then go eat lunch in the cafeteria. This was really the first time Natalie got to see the trains and probably understand them. She loved it just as much as Carter did. They were both running around screaming.

After lunch we headed to our favorite floor, 3! We even ran into one of our good nurse friends in the hallway, which was a wonderful surprise.

Natalie's appointment with Zellers was good, but not like I had hoped. Natalie is growing great, but her oxygen is down. I have noticed lately Natalie has been breathing a little bit harder and have just been aware over the past few doctor visits to the pediatrician that her oxygen is not has high as it was last March. Last March when we went to Dallas her oxygen was running 89 to 90 and now it is 79 to 82. Her EKG looked good, but her blood was above average, but okay.

Dr. Zellers said she is growing, which in turn she is just not getting enough blood flow to the lungs. This is all normal for a heart baby, she is just moving toward the next surgery. I guess, I was just hoping she would be able to wait another summer, but it does not look like that is going to happen. Right now, it looks like she will have surgery this coming summer. Yes, that freaks me out, but I know it will be okay. I know we have gone through heart surgery before, 3 times to be exact, but this time will feel different. I think partially because she is older, we have spend so much time with her outside the hospital. Plus, she can talk, she will be able to express her hurting and fear better than before, which is both good and scary as a mother to know your child is in pain or scared. No need to start worrying now, because we still have time.

Dr. Zellers has moved up our next appointment with him. He wants to give her a little time to be able to see somethings, but not too much time. We go back in January and will know a lot more then about what lies head and timing.

After a full day of fun at Children's, what better then to have Gran and Papa come in for the weekend to play! Larry's parents came in Friday night for the weekend.

Actually, they kept our kids on Saturday while we went to the Arkansas vs A&M game. Now if you missed that game, you missed a great one...Go Hogs! The game came down to the last minute, but the Hogs decided to show up for the second half.

While we were celebrating the win. Larry's parents took the kids to the Dallas Zoo. Natalie's favorite thing was the carousel. She got to ride going in and going out, of course. Carter had a ball as well.

Sunday we went to pick my mom back up from my brother's and hang out with them as well. Carter got a hold of my nephew's Luke's swords and went to down on a dead bush out front. We do not have toys like that yet, because I am pretty sure he would use it more on his sister and his sister would use it on him. Natalie played with Kate and loved all of her fun big girl things.

It was so nice in Dallas this weekend, that we walked to a burger joint close by and then had ice cream. Natalie and Carter both had their first ice cream cone. I hope the pictures above do some of the justice, but nothing was better then the seeing it in person, the ice cream was everywhere. A good friend of mine, Sarah came to meet us as well with her cute little boy too.

Family + Friends + Good Doctor Appointments + Hog Victory = Successful Weekend

Natalie and Her Pacifier

Sticking crayons in the holes of her pacifier

Pacifier holding Minnie by the nose while Natalie plays games

Closer look at the Minnie and the pacifier

I have been trying to get a picture of this for the past year and actually got one a week ago when Natalie had the stomach virus. Personally, I think it is pretty funny.

Natalie loves her pacifier to say the least. I know we are going to start weaning her off it this next week, so pray for us and pray she lets go. Anyway, her pacifiers are the ones with the little holes on either side. She likes to sticks things in the holes, such as her Minnie Mouse's nose, crayons, hair clips, anything that would fit. I do not get it, but it is what she does.

I have actually got her before walking around the house with the pacifier in her mouth and Minnie's Mouses nose stuck in it...hands free of Minnie, might I add. I have to give her props for being creative and multi tasking.

Just wanted to share the photos...Happy Wednesday!

Bunn Family Update

A little Razorback love

Can you tell we do not care what anyone thinks? He rode all over the neighborhood too

Carter's favorite toy...He drives around until the battery is totally dead

I can't believe it is already, September 22! Natalie has been in school for a month and Carter has been in school now for 3 weeks. Oh, I am still trying to remember to get his "first day" of school picture. That is right, I am super mom. I just can't remember to grab my camera. I feel like I am doing good, just to get two backpacks, two lunch boxes and both kids dressed and out the door on time; not to mention that I need to be some what presentable, like not in my pjs.

I thought the best would be to give a September wrap up of what has been going on in my sweet family. Like I said, Carter has been in school for 3 weeks now. He is loving every minute of it! His best friend from last year is in his class this year again. Carter is super excited and in fact, tomorrow is Evan's birthday party, which in Carter's eyes is the coolest thing ever.

Natalie is loving school as well. She did decide last week to bring home a little present from school...the stomach bug. Man, it was miserable too. Natalie was totally fine and then all of the sudden, she started throwing up and the poor thing was screaming every time. The first night, I felt like we did not even get any sleep. Natalie did not leave our bed for 2 days, then she was fine for a day and the forth day brought on the diarrhea.

The best part about the stomach bug (please since a little humor coming) is that you get to share it with the rest of the family. Larry came home last Sunday and was in bed for 2 days, with his phone off, which says a lot. I have not washed that much or used that much lysol in a long time, but thankfully, Carter and I did not get it.

Carter could not understand one morning why I kept making him wash his hands or use germ x every time he even touch our bed or anything that Larry had touched. He was getting so frustrated, but I was not about to have another person in this family get sick; one week was enough for me.

Last night we went to a homecoming parade for the high school in our neighborhood. Carter and Natalie loved it; I think the candy being thrown out helped. I must say, it was a little weird for me, because this was my high school's big rival, but the kids had a blast and that made it worth it.

As for Larry and I, this month has flown by. We did take a little trip with some friends at the beginning of the month without kids. The trip could not have come at a better time, I need to regroup and relax after summer. Of course, I came home to the stomach bug a few days later, but I guess that is what you get after a nice vacation. I have to say it was totally worth it!

Here is a few moments of humor between Carter and I...

Carter..."I wish I had a jacket with a hood" (believe or not, it was 50 degrees outside that morning)

Me..."Like this one" (I pull it out from behind my back)

Carter..."Yea"

Me..."Is Mommy this best or what"

Carter..."No, Daddy is"

Me..."What about me" (feelings a little hurt at the moment, especially since I spend all day with him)

Carter..."Mom, life is just not fair"

Me...(feeling a little shocked, but my own words) "You are right"

Another fun moment...

Me..."Carter will you go get me your cup and bowl"

Carter...(only brings his cup to me)

Me..."That is not what I asked for, is it"

Carter..."Mom, you get what you get and you do not throw a fit"

Me...(Baffled, not sure how to answer)

That is right all you young mom's and soon to mom's out there, your kids will use your words on you, so be careful what you say.

Well, my kids are begging to go outside and play, so I will leave you all with this...Go Hogs! Arkansas plays Alabama tomorrow at 2:30 on CBS, I will be watching part of it, because as I mentioned earlier, Carter has a birthday party tomorrow right smack in the middle of the game.

Children's Finale

I know I have said this after every episode, but "Wow!" I am just blown away by this hospital. I am sure that I feel so strongly, because they saved my daughter's life, but seriously this is one amazing hospital and I am blessed we brought Natalie here.

http://youtu.be/SEcZzAxLu4g

In fact, Natalie has an appointment both with her cardiologist, Dr. Zellers and an ENT doctor in a few weeks. Yes, a full day of Children's and doctors. I try to schedule everything in one day so we do not have to make a bunch of trips to Dallas and Children's is amazing and works with us as well.

I will post more this week about what is going on in the Bunn household, but for now, watch the last amazing episode of Children's Med Dallas.

Choosing to See

I just finished one of the most amazing books, Choosing to See, by Mary Beth Chapman.

I am sure most of you have heard the tragic story of Steven Curtis Chapman and Mary Beth back a few years ago, when the sweet little girl, Maria went to be with Lord. Their 17 year old son was pulling into the driveway (slowly and not on the phone), but he could not see his little sister, Maria run out to greet him.

I know what you are thinking, how could you read this book, when it already makes you want to cry? Just know you will not only be inspired, but wowed by this amazing Godly women and family. Yes, you will cry during a couple of parts, but it is totally worth it.

I have always loved Steven Curtis Chapman's music, but I have a whole new respect for it after this book. Several songs were written during difficult and memorable times in their family. And Mary Beth gives an testimony about even in hard ties, there is a hope if you choose to see.

Here a few of my favorite quotes and verses from the book...

"Christianity doesn't deny the reality of suffering and evil...Our hope...is not based on the idea that we are going to be free of pain and suffering. Rather, it is based on the conviction that we will triumph over suffering" ~Brennan Manning

"Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joys" ~Psalm 126:5

"Endurance is not just the ability to bear a hard thing, but to turn it into glory" ~William Barclay

Another Amazing Children's Med Dallas

I do not know what it is, but the theme song to these Children's Med Dallas episodes just kills me. I start off crying and it has not even been 5 minutes into the episode yet. I guess it is just too close to home and we have and will continue to spend a lot of time at Children's Medical Center. I can say though without a doubt, that there is not another place I would rather be or have taking care of my angel, Natalie.

Here is the link to episode 4 of Children's Med Dallas...

http://youtu.be/H00wHwrDD3w

The episode once again is amazing! I love that Children's has done these episodes, so we can not only see what goes on in and behind the scenes, but we can also get to know the doctors that take care of our kiddos. Episode 4 does start looking into heart transplant. Natalie was on transplant in active status for about 14 days and then was on the hold status until this summer. I pray we never have to get on the list again, but I do know that it may be in our future again. God is with us and will take care of us no matter what road life takes us on.

Not sure how long the link will be active, but it should be active today and next Wed night and Thursday for sure.

"Now it is required that those who have been given a trust prove faithful"

1 Corinthians 4:2

Big Girl

Natalie on her first day of school this year

Brotherly Love
Natalie and Carter hugging it out before she goes into school

I have seen this coming for a few weeks now, but I did not realize how fast it would happen. Natalie is officially turning into a "big girl." We have had a week of big beginnings in our house.

Natalie is officially in a "big girl" bed! I am a little sad, because we will be removing the crib from our house this weekend; no more cribs ever. Do not get me wrong, I am happy with the size of our family and do not want any more little ones, but I am a little sad that we will not ever need a crib anymore. Sorry about my little side tangent there; back to Natalie.

We put a bed in her room when we moved back from Dallas last year, just in case I needed to be in there with her. Yes, I was way over paranoid, but who can blame me after three open heart surgeries. Lately, she has been pointing to her big girl bed at night, but Larry and I just put it off. Okay, so not Larry just me, I did not know how she would sleep and I just was not ready for it. However, Sunday night we put Natalie in her big girl bed. She is so tiny in it, but super cute (picture in the next few days to come). I only had to go in there 3 times before she went to sleep and yes, I ended up in bed with her at 3am. Since Sunday, I normally do not have to go back in there once we lay her down and only have to go in once a night when she wakes up. I am going to call that success!

She also started back to school on Tuesday. She only goes Tuesday and Thursdays, but it is so good for her to play with the other kids. She actually started this summer, but Carter was there with her and this time she was by herself. She gives the initial tear or two when I drop her off, but before I can check her in and leave she has already stopped and is playing. I think she does that to make me feel bad...drama queen.

I know this might not mean a lot most of you, but to me this is another huge step in the big girl world. Natalie is officially taking her aspirin without me having to dissolve it first! She is also taking Flintstones vitamins, of course, she thinks they are candy. I am sure me telling her they are candy has nothing to do with it.

Next up, is potty training...not for a few months, mommy can't handle to much to soon. Natalie actually is interested in sitting on the potty, but has yet to actually go. If I actually took the time and set there with her for a few days, she might get it, but I need Carter back in school first and a little time for sanity from the summer break before I take on too big of a challenge.

As a side note...Children's Med Dallas did not have a new episode last night, but they are keeping all the episodes up until next week. That means, my links should be active until next week if you have not had the chance to watch the first three episodes, they are amazing.

I hope everyone is getting back into the swing of school and your kiddos have had a great first couple of days or weeks if you have children.

Children's Med Dallas - Dr. Forbess

http://youtu.be/0eN8XSGytgU - Episode 3

Wow, episode 3 was intense for me. The CV-ICU waiting room; I have spent way to many hours in and will sit again within the next year or two. The episode showed the heart operating room, the bypass machine and even the heart of a toddler. Oh yes, I did cry. I tried to hold myself together, but knowing we will be back in surgery again in a year or so is scary. I would not want any other doctor operating on Natalie than Dr. Forbess.

I am sorry, I tried attaching the link to episode 2, but I am still have trouble with the link. If you are on facebook, you can go back and look for episode 2 on the Children's Med Center page. I am sorry, but you may be able to look around the site after you click on the above to see episode 2. I will tell you that both the liver transplant patients did great during surgery and their little bodies accepted the liver.

Children's Med Dallas - Dr. Forbess

I have found out that the Children's Med Dallas link from last week will only be active until 5pm today, however I am hoping they will re-active next Thursday as well. I am having trouble posting the link today for some reason, sorry. If you are on facebook though, you can go to the Children's Medical Center page or Children's Med Dallas page and then you clink on the red Med in the sign. Sorry about not being able to link, I will try again next week.

Tonight's episode continues to follow the two liver transplants from last week and starts following a family with a little girl with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome. Natalie has Hypoplastic Right Heart Syndrome, but they follow the same surgeries. Dr. Forbess is featured in this episode, he is the man saving Natalie's life.

I can't help it, but when I just hear the theme song, I start crying. Not sure if these episodes are the best for me, but I am proud Natalie is a patient at Children's.

Children's Medical Center

http://youtu.be/bw6pJHktST8

Children's Medical Center is doing a five part television documentary featuring an unprecedented behind-the-scene look at what goes on at the hospital every day. Children's Med Dallas is only being aired in the Dallas area, however they are posting the episodes on the web and I will be posting the link here each week for you.

I watched the first episode tonight and I am proud to say, I only cried three times. I will make no promises on next weeks episode. Tonight's episode featured two families needing a liver transplant for their children. You not only, get the point of view from the families, but you get to know the surgeons on a personal level.

Next week, they will follow up with these two patients and will follow two cardiac patients. Natalie's surgeon, Dr. Forbess will be featured and Dr. Guleserian, who over sees the heart transplants. Dr. Forbess has done all of Natalie's three open heart surgeries. We have met Dr. Guleserian when Natalie was put on transplant and during surgical rounds. Both of these doctors are amazing and we feel we owe our daughter's life to them and to the entire cardiac department at Children's.

The episode is only about twenty one minutes long, please take the time to watch these amazing episodes to see what goes on at one of the nation's largest children's hospital. Not to worry, I will be reminding everyone each week about these and especially next week as they look into the cardiac division at Children's.

Our little miracle would not be here without Children's Medical Center..Thank you, Children's!

Ranger Game and The Dallas Aquarium

The kids and I at the Dallas Aquarium

At the Dallas Aquarium and yes, we are crazy

Carter, Olivia Baker, Natalie, Hinsley Patterson and Hunter Patterson

Hunter Patterson and Carter soaked at Addison Town Square

Last weekend, we met some good friends in Dallas for the weekend, the Pattersons and Bakers. Chad and Danielle Patterson have a little boy Hunter, that is about 6 months older than Carter and a little girl, Hinsley that is 3 weeks younger than Natalie. Colin and Erica Baker have a little girl who is a day older than Natalie, so we had a great and wild weekend to say the least. Nothing like travel and going out to eat with three 2 year olds, a four year old and a 5 year old...yes, we are crazy!

Chad's parents have a box at Ranger Stadium and they were so kind to let us all use Friday night to watch Rangers vs Toronto. I must say, if we were not in a box, the game might have been miserable, but we were able to sit outside or trap the girls inside when we needed to. So, extra "Thank yous, Mr. and Mrs. Patterson"

This was Carter's first baseball experience ever; I mean not just professional, but ever, he has never even been to watch a kids baseball or tee ball game before. I know, but I thought I could hold off sports until this next year. I figured we had the rest of our life for sports, why not take it easy the first few years. I do enjoy my weekends of nothing.

Before we left town, I bought Carter a Cars 2 baseball glove to take with us. He was in heaven and wore it the entire car ride. We have since started working with him a bit on catching a throwing. I just have to make sure we do not throw inside the house, because the boy has an arm already.

I also have to say, the game was so much fun and yes, it did make it even sweeter that the Rangers not only won, but won big time!

The next day we all went to the Dallas Aquarium. Larry and I took Carter when he was 2 years old and they day before Natalie's first surgery. He loved it then, so I knew he would only love it even more and that Natalie would love it as well. If you have never been, it is worth going to see if you are ever in the Dallas area. Once you are inside the Aquarium, you will totally forget that you are in downtown Dallas.

The kids had a blast! The loved the monkeys, fish, and pretty much the entire exhibit. Later that night, we took the kids to Addison Town Square to let them play in the fountains and the water that shoots up from the ground. Talk about cheap entertainment, they had a blast and were totally soaked. What else do you to when it is a 104 degrees at 9pm at night?

The weekend ended on a little soar note for us...Carter woke up with fever. Poor guy caught some virus going around and felt yucky for about 3 days. The Lord blessed us though, because Natalie did not get it! Talk about a miracle, especially since they drink after each other. I try not to let them, but at this age it is almost impossible.

Our weekend in Dallas was great! It was also nice to go there and not have a doctor's appointment for once, not to worry, we will be back in a few months for an appointment. I have attached a few pictures of our trip as well.

Natalie's Heart Check

Natalie at her first Ranger game

(more to come on the Rangers)

Natalie had her heart check up her in Amarillo this morning with Dr. Luckstead. I am sure I have mentioned it before, but we see Dr. Luckstead, a pediatric cardiologist at Texas Tech Pediatrics in Amarillo, in between our Dallas appointments.

Her appointment went great! I have been worried about Natalie not gaining weight, but she finally has hit the 23lb mark and I am so excited. Little milestones are precious in our life. She has also gotten taller, so that I am just over joyed to know she is growing and gaining weight. Cardiac kids sometimes have a hard time growing and gaining weight, because their little hearts are working in over time all the time.

Natalie's EKG was good as well. Dr. Luckstead also checked her oxygen level, which was 80. Now, this is a little lower than it has been, but it is still in the 80s, so I am please.

We go to Dallas at the end of September for her appointment at Children's with Dr. Zellers. She will also get an echo during that visit, which is standard for her.

"Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see"

Hebrews 11:1

Natalie is Two

Natalie is two! This past Saturday, my little miracle angel turned two. I can't believe she is two already. She is such a blessing to our lives. I praise God every time I look at her and see how far she has come in two years. I know we have a road ahead, but we will take one day at a time hand in hand with God leading.

4th of July Weekend

Happy 4th of July

Carter throwing his Spiderman baseball with Larry

Natalie and her favorite Minnie shirt and yes, it is a pj shirt and yes, we wear it everyday

Carter jumping off the diving board

Sweet Girl eating some Go-Gurt

Our 4th of July could not have started off better, with the letter stating Natalie was officially off transplant. The weekend continued to be filled with fun and blessings!

We went swimming with friends and family all weekend long. Carter played so hard on Saturday, that he crawled into his bed with his wet swim suit still on. I guess I succeeded in wearing him out finally!

Natalie had a blast too! We got her a new swim suit with floaties built in. She has not figured out that you have to stay away from the edge of the pool and that she can not get in without Larry or I. This is that fun age, of no fear, which is fun and challenging.

I have posted a couple of pictures of our 4th of July weekend

Officially Off the Heart Transplant List

Not sure if you can tell, but this is her favorite pj shirt, but we wear it daily...Minnie Mouse, our new obession

I sometimes forget that Natalie was still on the heart transplant list. I am not sure how, since getting on the list is harder than any interview I have and will ever go through. We met with financial, psychologists, social workers, every team member on the transplant team and that was just our part. Natalie had to undergo a couple of tests as well. However, we were blessed that Natalie did not have to go that route as of now. By God's grace, Natalie's first unsuccessful heart surgery was a success the second time around!

Natalie was moved originally placed on the United Network of Organ Sharing (UNOS) waiting list for a heart on September 19, 2009. On October 8, 2009, she was moved to a status 7 or inactive status, this was after her successful surgery. We got a letter today, that states because of her health improving, they officially removed her from the UNOS waiting list on June 28, 2011. What a great way to start the 4th of July weekend!

Now, she still has at least one more major heart operation in the next year and she will continue to live her life on half a heart, but we can handle that. Her life will always be different, a "special different" because God made her heart extra special.

Speaking of special hearts, I have a couple of prayer requests...Larry's parent's best friends, grandson (sure hope you followed that) was recently born with a congenital heart defect. They will be traveling to Boston for him to have surgery, because the Children's Hospital there specializes in this specific defect. Before he can have surgery, he needs to gain weight, which is always a challenge with a heart baby. Please pray for him to gain weight and pray for the family as the begin making plans to travel to Boston for surgery.

Also, summer is a busy time for heart surgeries. There are a few families from the Panhandle area whose children are currently going through heart surgeries. Please pray for all the families with children going through surgery this summer.

A little update on the little girls with ecoli. I believe they have all been released from the hospital and doing much better. Thank you for your prayers for all these little girls and their families.

I hope everyone has a great 4th of July weekend! Be safe and please be smart about fireworks, especially if you are in the areas where fires are so scary (Amarillo).

Swimming

I am not sure what happened in one week, but Carter went from not jumping off the side of the pool with his floaty to jumping off the diving board without his floaty. He also went from not wanting to let go of Larry or I while in the pool to swimming in yes, one week!

Carter has become a fish to say the least. He loves to swim! We had been working with him on swimming, but then literally over night he figured it out. I took him to the pool and he just started swimming. Of course at first he did not realize you could lift your head and breath while still kicking your legs, so we worked on that for about 10 minutes and he had it down perfect.

The water was hurting his eyes a bit, so I got him some Lighting McQueen goggles. He is that child that was so excited to have goggles that he wore them all day and wanted to sleep with them too. We compromised and the goggles watched him sleep on his side table...too funny!

I can't believe it, but Natalie is 23 months old! I have been telling people she was 21 months old, what happened to the time?

Natalie has started talking a lot! She is asking a lot of questions and repeating whatever you say (carefully watching all the words that come out of my mouth). She is also a busy body, never stopping. You would never know she had a heart defect the way she continues to go.

Pandamania

Carter had VBS last week at our church, Pandamania. He loved it! He came every day asking me about "Patty Panda..." Where does she sleep? How does she take a bath? How these kids come up with some of their questions, who knows. I did what every parent would have done, I told Carter to ask the talking panda.

I was blessed to be able to volunteer one day with Carter's actual group. There is nothing like 11 4 year olds, to completely wear you out. Natalie went to the nursery,but after two hours in the nursery, she wanted to come and join the fun.

At the end of the time everyone gets together and sings as we wait for parents to pick up there kids. Natalie was fascinated and trying to do all the hand motions. Yes, I did almost cry, but thought I should really try and contain myself for the sake of the other kids around. I just can't help it sometimes, when I see my kids on fire for God!

We get the option to purchase a music cd of the songs they sing during the week. I was pretty pumped to buy a new VBS cd, because frankly, I was tired of the one from last year, that we still played everyday. I can't complain too much, because it does make my heart smile to hear Carter in the backseat busting out, "He's wild! He's wild! God is wild about us!" Plus, occasionally I get the hand motions too!

I do have to mention this one last thing, because I am so proud of Carter. He has memorized his first bible verse, Philippians 4:13! We were driving to school one day and he would not stop talking, so I thought I would try and get him to memorize a bible verse and that was the only one that came to my mind, but I do love it, so it worked.

Some updated on our friend's kids with e coli....Our friend whose little girl was in Dallas is home now and doing much better. They will continue to have blood work done twice a week for a while. The other two little girls are finally doing better. One had surgery today to get her port out. God is working and healing these little girls!

Fashion Statement to Say the Least

Natalie making her fasion statement

Painting with water

Natalie is setting a fashion statement like no one else. I was folding and putting up laundry last week and twice, she got a hold of Carter's underwear and put them on over her clothes. The first time, he was a little upset, because they were his favorite Lighting McQueen underwear. However, the next time was just Nemo, so he let her wear them over her pants the entire day. I could care less, but Larry thought she needed to take them off before we left the house. Natalie did not agree and threw her new "almost two year" fit. Guess who won??? Of course, daddy gave in and I am sure it helped that we were just in the front yard playing and not going to the store or anything.

She has shown a little interest in the idea of potty training. I mean seriously, she is wanting to sit on the potty and can't even talk good yet! So far, she has not actually gone in the potty, but seems to like trying to be a big girl. I did go out and buy a potty seat, which might help. I will keep you posted on how it goes, once I get the nerve to actually put the potty seat on the toliet and make an effort.

Okay, all you mom's that need cheap entertainment for you kids, I've got it. I was talking with my mom and I remembered as a kid, she would give a paint brush and I would spend hours painting the edge the pool and deck with water. I tried it last weekend (picture above). The kids loved it! I got some cheap paint brushes and a bucket of water for each of them and the went to town. Carter had a blast! Natalie had more fun dipping the brush into the water and sucking the water off the end of the paint brush (gross, I know). Anway, fun ideas for summer.

Just a little update on the girls with e coli...Our friend's daughter, Jesse, who was a Children's in Dallas is doing much better. They are hoping to come home at the end of the week or first of next week. Her hemoglobin level is still low, but holding steady and not decreasing any. Please pray for that to get back to normal and for the entire family as they are split between Dallas and Amarillo. Coming from a person who has been there, it is so emotionally hard on you. Also, there are still three little girls here in Amarillo that are on dialysis trying to battle e coli. Please pray for them and their families as their little bodies try to fight off this horrible bacteria.

Summer Has Begun

I know my last post was about two week ago. Summer has gotten the best of me to say the least. I never realized how much I enjoyed those two hours three days a week when Carter was in school and Natalie was napping. Natalie still naps, but Carter does not. We do have "Quiet Time" every day, but Carter comes out of his room every 5 minutes to ask a question, so I gave up.

We have been loving summer so far! We have only been to the pool once, but plan to come more here in a couple of weeks. We have spent every waking minute outside, riding bikes, playing in the water, etc. Carter does love to help me water! Of course, that means it takes twice the amount of time and he ends up all wet, but oh well.

I do wish the Panhandle wind would die down. I am tired of 30 to 40 mph winds every day and so are my dry eyes. I should not complain, because I know people have been hit by flooding and tornadoes, but Amarillo is in desperate need of water in the worst way possible. We had another outbreak of fires this past weekend and a few people lost homes. What is going on with Mother Nature these days?

I do have a prayer request...There has been a small cluster of e coli cases in Amarillo in children under 3 years of age, mostly girls. They are not sure where it came from, but 6 of the 7 cases have had paths crossed and some of the kids are related. Five of the cases are good friends of ours and several of the kids have been put on dialysis. One of our best friend's little girl is one who was put on dialysis. She actually flew to Children's in Dallas this past weekend and I talked to my friend a few minutes ago and Jesse, the little girl is doing much better. Her kidneys are responding to the dialysis. However, Jesse's cousin is sick and not doing very good and may have to be put on dialysis as well. Please pray for all these little kids and their families as they fight this.

Carter's Graduation

Carter and Mrs. Crista

Last night we had Carter's Graduation Program. He graduated from his 3 and 4 year old class. I can't believe the little guy is going to be in Pre-K next year.

The program featured a few songs from the Kindergarten, Pre-K and the 3 to 4 year old classes. Carter did great! His first little program he this year back in November, he was so shy and would not sing. In fact, he almost started crying, it was so sad and sweet at the same time. Last night he was just singing and doing the hand motions with all the other kids.

We feel so blessed to have had such an amazing teacher this year. Thank you, Mrs. Crista for everything!