Christmas 2009

Ok, this is kind of annoying b/c all of these pictures are out of order...but here goes anyway! This is Christmas afternoon at my parents' house.

The boys love entertaining their cousin, Charis. They were singing and dancing for her.

Here's Jonathan in his "girl" outfit that I just LOVE! My brothers always make fun of them and say that I can pass his clothes down to their girls!!

This is Christmas morning. I just love the matching baby Gap pjs that the boys are wearing!

I made this french toast casserole but of course the boys ended up eating pretzels...yes, I said pretzels! Jon and I enjoyed it though!

Our CVS tree! Well, the tree isn't from CVS but the plastic ornaments that we bought for 7.99 are! Best decision ever!! It made learning to keep hands off a lot easier!

Christmas Eve with the Edgrens

Kim, Hannah and Emily- sisters!

Praying before the meal.

FINALLY!

We are so thankful to finally have some answers as to the source of Michael's eczema. Yesterday my mom and I took him to see a specialist at MUSC in Charleston and were delightfully surprised to leave with some solutions. We found out he's basically allergic to being outside. When asked how to live with all the environmental allergies the nurse jokingly said he'll be set to go if we just put him in a bubble before heading outdoors. He's allergic to 2 out of the 3 grass mixes, 3 out of the 3 tree mixes, cats, fish, tree nuts, peanuts and rice. When they told me that he in fact IS allergic to all of these things I felt so relieved and excited to know that I wasn't just crazy in wanting Michael to be retested for allergies. Also, having some concrete solutions to help my baby felt like a weight lifted. After the initial high left, I am realizing that this too is not a quick solution. Although we'll obviously illiminate the foods, there is a lot of studying on my part that needs to be done to truly be tree nut, peanut, rice and fish free. This morning I've already noticed that his gummy vitamins have coconut in them! I also cook with coconut oil often. Another recommendation that had helped other eczema patients was hurting Michael: taking fish oil vitamins. Eating out will take on a whole new meaning and challenge. The hardest aspect is dealing with going outside and then entering the house again. They recommend stripping him down everytime he enters the house and putting him in "body armour," which is basically very snug polypropalene or cotton pjs. We also have to wipe him down with wipes everytime we come back inside to prohibit the transfer of various pollens throughout the house. The doctor gave us new lotions and soaps, anti-histamine and an antibiotic that he has to be on for 20 days. Finally some answers!
We truly do praise the Lord for leading us to this specialist. The whole staff and doctor were unbelievably great with Michael. They listened and were patient with my many questions, even with the huge line waiting to be seen. While I'm thrilled, it also makes me feel extremely frustrated with the many other doctors who would not retest him and said that it's hereditary and maybe by 5 he'll outgrow it. Rubbish! It's an outward sign of an inward problem! Ultimately, the Lord is soveriegn and had us go through this process for our personal growth and trust in Him. I know we are so blessed to find answers, unlike so many others with chronically sick children. With the bigger view in mind, 3 1/2 years isn't that long to wait. Hey, Abraham and Sarah had to wait 25 yrs. for their promised son, Isaac!

My Baby's TWO!!

By this time two years ago, my water had been broken and pitocin administered to bring on a 3 week early baby boy. It's always so much fun to think about and imagine what the child within will look and be like. After you meet that child you can't imagine anything different...perfection! I feel so privileged to be Jonathan Andrew's mommy.

So far, he's been a late bloomer...in crawling (11 months), in walking (15 months), in climbing (no interest really). This is simply a testament to his large stature but mostly to his laid back personality. There are lots of smiles and giggles because of his playful spirit. After supper every night, he and Michael love running throughout the house, falling to the ground in laughter and wrestling. Michael yells, "Jon Jon, get on top of me!" Then they tickle and sometimes get hurt. But it's still one of our best times of the day. Jonathan also loves trains, just like his brother. He knows all of their names and has a favorite, Duck. A close second is James. He carries them around all day and many falls are made worse because he won't let go to brace himself. If he's not holding trains he's holding letters. He and Michael love to quiz each other on the sounds of each letter. His longest phrase so far is, "Gigal, what does the A say?" Precious memories!

Of course, now that he's two and sinful nature is inherent , he's started a new phase of rebeliousness. His new favorite phrase when you ask him a question of any kind is, "No, ha haa ha juice." (or whatever the item in question is about). We're working daily to stop this behavior.

What a joy Jonathan's presence has been to our family, and we praise God for choosing us to be his parents! I pray he will not be laid back in doing things for the Lord but will be a lover of Him and pursue God whole-heartedly.

A Rare Thanksgiving

What a blessing it was to have my parents, the Fleming siblings and their wives and children all together this year to celebrate Thanksgiving. Joanna figured out that it had been 8 years since we had done so! We usually only see Gabe, Kelly and the girls every summer but Gabe had an assignment at Shaw AFB enabling them to be with us. Above is a photo of all the cousins. Getting pictures is always torture but I'm always thankful for the memories.

29 Weeks and Counting!

Fridays

Our typical Friday usually involves some outting with my cousin's daughter. Lately, we've been fortunate enough to meet up with my sister-in-law, Joanna, and her daughter, Charis. This particular day, we went on a long walk around a pond in Harbison. Everyone was thoroughly worn out by the time we got home, including Mommy. Here are a few pics.

The State Fair

ER and MD enjoying a "horsey" ride!
MD loving his train ride! He loved this one last year too. He even posed for other peoples' pictures...which he never even does for me! He estatically kept shouting, "Mommy, look at meeee!" the entire time.

I seriously can't believe MD agreed to go on his first roller coaster! He loved it all until the last big dip. He came off a little shakey and teary-eyed. Since he didn't cry the whole time, I thought it was pretty amusing. Does this make me a mean mommy? :0)

Jonathan didn't like anything but the animals. I literally had to turn his stroller away from any rides that ER and MD were going on. He screamed and cried until I did so. I didn't notice he was about to get his fingers injured until I looked at this picture later!

The REASON I love the fair is for the elephant ears! We definitely indulged in some sugary goodness...and yes, I paid for it while trying to leave the fair...and yes, it was still worth it! :0)

A Time for New

This is the bed we found on craigslist for a really good deal. As you can see, MD likes it!

Ever since we found out we were expecting our third baby, we've been praying for a couple items: a van and bunk beds. The Lord has so graciously granted us both of these requests. My boys' memory verse is, "Do not be afraid, your prayer has been heard." Luke 1:13 We have seen the Lord provide and are thankful!

The River

Yesterday was perfect weather for a walk at River Front Park. Every Friday we keep my cousin's daughter, whom both my boys ooohhhh and awwww over. Here are a couple pictures I was able to capture. I was brave and let Jonathan walk the whole time...which was even more stressful than I thought. He headed straight for the water on numerous occasions, not adhering to huge rock drop-offs, branches or tree roots. Even though Michael is the kind of child who gets into everything, he's still very cautious. We learned yesterday that his brother is not. Jonathan just wandered around aimlessly not noticing any details of things that could cause hurt or disaster. He's a laid-back wanderer, but very particular about his interest...the river. Hope he wisens up one of these days! :0) Can't wait to see the similarities and differences in baby boy 3!

Reactions

It has been quite interesting to hear people's responses to our big boy news. I've been a bit surprised with, "I was afraid of that!" "I'm sorry!" It seems as if people are expecting me to be upset with what the Lord has chosen for us. I really couldn't be more thrilled! I mean who could be disappointed after seeing the life within, jumping around. Every movement was simply precious. I think Jon was surprised that I wasn't disappointed too, but I firmly believe God knows exactly what He's doing and I trust Him thoroughly with whom He's chosen to place in our family. I only feel priviledged that He would grant me three little blessings!

IT'S A BOY!

This morning we found out the wonderful news that I will be a mom to ALL boys! Yes, there will be no calm in our household, but we are excited to know what God has planned for our little family. Many people were guessing girl this time around, but I really felt it was a boy and had even dreamt it twice! Michael is very excited and has said from the beginning, "I want it to be a boy, and I want to name him Thomas." (After Thomas the train, of course). Jonathan has no clue that he's about to be de-throned as the baby of the house. Jon said he was hoping for a girl but is excited that everything looks healthy. The only sadness I feel is that I won't have the same kind of bond with a daughter that I do with my mom. It is priceless. But I'm hoping and praying for some good mommy protectors and some great daughters'-in-law some day! All we need now is a name. My vote is for Grady James Edgren after both of my grandfathers. I think Jon likes James Nathaniel Edgren but we really haven't talked about it yet. Tell me your opinion!!

Half Way & Tired but Cute Brothers...

Well, I'm finally 20 weeks and this is my first pregnancy photo. We find out the sex tomorrow!!

Michael some how was able to situate Jonathan in the sleeping bag without anyone getting hurt! A major miracle with my "bulldozer."

Starting Point

Here are the before pictures of Michael's skin so we can hopefully see lots of improvement in the future!

New Piano

My Uncle Malcolm and Aunt Judy are moving to Charleston and were trying to find a home for Momouse's, my grandmother's, piano. We jumped at the chance to have it for our boys and to keep it in the family. Having it in our house brings back such sweet memories for me playing it as a child in Momouse and Papa's house. The boys are having such a great time "playing" on it and are actually pretty gentle, which I previously thought might be a problem. It's a sweet thought that my uncle voiced, "Momouse is elated to have her grandchildren and great grandchildren play on her piano." We certianly are treasuring it!

Eczema Update

Yesterday my mom, Michael and I headed to Charleston to meet with an environmental doctor in hopes of shedding any new light on Michael's overwhelmingly painful, chronic eczema. We are desparate for the Lord to heal his little body. As a mother, I often feel so defeated in accomplishing easy tasks because of how time consuming and emotionally draining it can be to care for, discipline and love this little boy all throughout the day and all hours of the night. Michael is so dear but is so hindered in living a "normal" life even though we attempt it every day. God is continually teaching me to fervently bring my petitions before Him and to be content with where He has Michael right now. It is so hard to be content when your child is the one hurting. It is also important for me to be vigilant in seeking help for him. And that is what we're doing...with the help of my in-laws and parents.
Our visit took from 8:30am-2pm with a few breaks. It was refreshing to be taken seriously. They listened to his whole history from when it began to appear, to medicines and foods given, to places we've traveled...and so much more. We then met with the doctor who told us he believes eczema occurs mainly from foods eaten and then from things like dustmites. He was also very concerned with the over abundance of yeast that's probably in his gut due to all the anti-biotics and steroids he's been given. We were then given a plan: a yeast eradication plan, oils to lubricate his body from within, a special diet (stone age diet), and a "first aid" kit to give him more natural medinces for healing. How do I feel about it all? A bit overwhelmed but thankful for a new plan of action. I'm thankful they're not trying to cover up the problem with steroids...which don't work in the end anyway! and that they are attempting to get to the root of the problem. I am skeptical because nothing has worked yet but very hopeful it will be different this time with a lot of hard work!

They're two, they're four, they're six they're eight shunting trucks and hauling frieght...

The boys' first train ride on Thomas in Bryson City, NC! They were fascinated. And it was just 25 minutes long. Perfect length for little ones.

We had to get a picture with Thomas but didn't want to wait in the long line. So we copied other people going around to the other side. Smart move for some tired boys.

Nee Nee, Mommy and the boys...wearing matching Thomas shirts of course.

I was very surprised that Michael took center stage dancing and singing. He even spoke into the microphone. Shy and embarassed about attention no longer!

We had to take a picture with Sir Topham Hatt. Jonathan was a bit afraid but I don't think you can tell he was crying in this picture.

All in all it was sooo much fun and well worth the trip to see and hear both boys get excited. Michael wouldn't stop singing the Thomas song all weekend (the title of the blog). I think my mom was a bit tired of hearing it by Sunday. :0)

My Baby Isn't a Baby Anymore!

Jonathan is starting to communicate so much more at 19 1/2 months. He is so stinking cute when talking and singing. Just yesterday in the car I asked Michael which song he wanted to listen to. "I want, 'Thank You, Lord!'" he requested. I then went on to ask Jonathan the same question, not expecting an answer. Without missing a beat he responded, "I want 'Jercho!'" ...That's how he says "Joshua Fought the Battle of Jericho." He was so proud of himself as I showed enthusiasm of his big 3 word sentence. We're quickly moving on toward the world of communication. Even though I'm usually accurate in understanding his grunts and non-verbal cues, it's nice that he's starting to use the actual word.

Earlier in the week we were in the car listening to our music. Michael and Jonathan have their favorite songs, which are usually similar because Jonathan copies Michael's interests. They usually get excited about "Jericho," Thank You, Lord," "Father Nabraham" (that's what MD calls it) and "If You're Happy and You Know It." That's why it was surprising to learn of Jonathan's new interest. When the cd got to the song "Fairest Lord Jesus" Jonathan began to softly sing...I use this word very loosely. It was the sweetest sound! I couldn't help but smile from ear to ear as I listened. When the song ended he quickly requested,"Again peas!" Too cute. This went on until we got home.

Sweet memories of my baby. Although...he won't be the baby for long! We're expecting our third little one in early February.

A Wonderful Vacation

While on vacation in Hilton Head Island, SC, Jon and I celebrated our 4th wedding anniversary. Jon's parents watched the boys while we went out to eat at Oceanfront Cafe in Harbor Town. We sat by a window overlooking the harbor and watched dolphins entertain us almost the whole dinner. Most people feel as if they can't believe it's been a certain amount of years that they've been married. I always say that I can't believe it's only been 4 years because so much has happened in that time. By our first anniversary we already had 8 week old Michael, by our 2nd we were pregnant with Jonathan and by our 3rd we had two boys. I wouldn't trade what God has chosen for our family and definitely feel so blessed to have all my boys, especially Jon. He is my calm and reason.

This is what Jonathan looked like most of our trip to the beach...a beach bum. He really liked sitting and watching Michael and other children. He did NOT take to the water as I had hoped but he did enjoy the wading pools at the beach once they warmed up a bit.

This was the first year that Michael loved playing in the pool and ocean. He really liked it when Daddy would throw him up in the air and catch him in the water. The only downside to all this water fun is that he got a bad ear infection and severe eczema flair-up by the end of the trip.

Jonathan was so funny around Yei Yei, Jon's dad. He wouldn't give him the time of day. Yei Yei would pull on his shirt and try to get his attention, but Jonathan would only give a coy look and look straight ahead. When Yei Yei was out of the room Jonathan would say his name repeatedly, but he wouldn't say anything when he came back in the room.

Monkey See...

Monkey Do!