Emma did this all on her own. I was cooking breakfast yesterday and she used sight cards and what not to create this.
Go Emma Go.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
"Heal Thy Heal Thy Turtle Swim".
Emma did this all on her own. I was cooking breakfast yesterday and she used sight cards and what not to create this.
Go Emma Go.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
She keeps asking for a brother or sister.
Are you afraid to ask?
Emma is not. She keeps asking for a brother or sister. Clark and I light heartily told her today she might be an only child but many would always love her.
For now the question on siblings for Emma, we lay this question in God’s hands. Clark is not even a year out from cancer treatment and I am not that far from being 40.
Really how can I possibly (and really should we) explain to a 4 year old that Daddy’s boys the sperm are frozen and defrosting them is not so easy as placing them in a microwave and hitting start.
Ok not the most the scientific way of explaining the facts of life but still she is only 4 years old.
Which begs the question on how things have changed since I grew up and how babies are made. Yes, many, many babies are still made with grace of God the “traditional” way but still many, many babies are made with grace of God like Emma was with In Vitro Fertilization. For us, our journey with infertility and loss was our beginning with Emma and for that we would not trade any of it for the world.
For now, I answer questions as basically as I can.
The other day, Emma asked, “Do doctor’s help make babies?” “Yes, in your case and in many other babies they do.”
She seemed ok with that for now.
As for being an only child, that’s in Gods’ hands and maybe a little defrost time in the next several months.
Emma is not. She keeps asking for a brother or sister. Clark and I light heartily told her today she might be an only child but many would always love her.
For now the question on siblings for Emma, we lay this question in God’s hands. Clark is not even a year out from cancer treatment and I am not that far from being 40.
Really how can I possibly (and really should we) explain to a 4 year old that Daddy’s boys the sperm are frozen and defrosting them is not so easy as placing them in a microwave and hitting start.
Ok not the most the scientific way of explaining the facts of life but still she is only 4 years old.
Which begs the question on how things have changed since I grew up and how babies are made. Yes, many, many babies are still made with grace of God the “traditional” way but still many, many babies are made with grace of God like Emma was with In Vitro Fertilization. For us, our journey with infertility and loss was our beginning with Emma and for that we would not trade any of it for the world.
For now, I answer questions as basically as I can.
The other day, Emma asked, “Do doctor’s help make babies?” “Yes, in your case and in many other babies they do.”
She seemed ok with that for now.
As for being an only child, that’s in Gods’ hands and maybe a little defrost time in the next several months.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Back porch sittin'
Some nights are just great for back porch sittin'. Tonight was one of those nights where the weather was bearable and we can just sit.
Our neighbor in back of us has the most amazing tree that overhangs into our backyard. On warmer days, there is at least 10 degree difference from the back of our house to the front of the our house because of this giant tree. We are thankful.
Tonight was just a good night for back porch sittin'.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Papa and Emma
I realized last night my dad is getting seasoned (older is also a term that could be used). It made me realize that I only have a defined amount of time to share my family of Clark, Emma and I with him. Yes, there is a life beyond if you are a believer, but not everyone is.
I see Emma with him and I have to smile. When Emma was born, dad did not want to be called Grandpa, he asked to be called GP. All was fine with that until, Emma one day on her own, started to call him Papa and last night she started to call him Grandpa.
Emma took his hand and started to swing, and saying, "Grandpa, Grandpa..." I looked over at my dad and his smile was huge and melted my heart. I had a promise to myself then and there that Emma would have more "GP/Papa/Grandpa". He deserves it so does she.
Emma is so different with my dad than I was ever with him. I see her coy smiles and her giggles and know what ever ails my dad has that her laughter is just plain good medicine for his heart and soul.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
“IF YOU REALLY KNEW ME”
MTV at my age? Yep, I am still of the age where MTV intrigues me and makes me appreciate how old I am. A new show has emerged on their network called, “IF YOU REALLY KNEW ME”. I had heard from a few friends that this show was interesting, so last night I took the opportunity to see it.
Wow. Wow. Wow.
According to http://dwp.bigplanet.com/serendipity/mtv1ifyoureallyknewme/ the show is “Like a reality version of The Breakfast Club, each episode of If You Really Knew Me takes place at a different high school, and follows five students from different cliques as they go through the life-changing experience of Challenge Day, a one-day program that breaks down the walls between cliques, and completely changes the way students view their school and each other. Watch the amazing transformation each week as new students open up for the first time and try to change by revealing who they really are, behind the cliques and the labels. Is it possible to change your life, and maybe even your high school, in one day? These students are going to find out... on If You Really Knew Me.”
I watched the show, the kids in it and the “label” walls that appeared to be taken down on Challenge Day. I thought what a great exercise for any group and am excited to see if there is any long term follow up with the schools involved.
It made me think of a recent meeting Clark and I had with a new associate. The meeting started off badly and then got worse. This person in about one hour’s time had placed many labels on Clark and I. I, of course being the more sensitive one was offended. The meeting ended and I felt I had been placed in a box with so many “mis” labels on it, I could have shipped to South Africa by UPS.
Clark asked after the meeting why I did not say anything and correct her “label” way of thinking. All I could muster was I did not want to get my blood pressure raised because this person was seeing “me” or “us” in cloudy glasses.
We talked some more and I realized I do not like boxes. Boxes are confining to me and to be labeled and labeled incorrectly drives me crazy. However, I realized I was not going to change this person nor did I want to. This person’s labels on me were hers not mine.
So it made me think “IF YOU REALLY KNEW ME” might be on to something and not just at the high school level. Maybe as adults we should reconsider our “labeling” abilities and find out about “If you really knew me…”
We might really then to get know each other on a more intimate level.
Wow. Wow. Wow.
According to http://dwp.bigplanet.com/serendipity/mtv1ifyoureallyknewme/ the show is “Like a reality version of The Breakfast Club, each episode of If You Really Knew Me takes place at a different high school, and follows five students from different cliques as they go through the life-changing experience of Challenge Day, a one-day program that breaks down the walls between cliques, and completely changes the way students view their school and each other. Watch the amazing transformation each week as new students open up for the first time and try to change by revealing who they really are, behind the cliques and the labels. Is it possible to change your life, and maybe even your high school, in one day? These students are going to find out... on If You Really Knew Me.”
I watched the show, the kids in it and the “label” walls that appeared to be taken down on Challenge Day. I thought what a great exercise for any group and am excited to see if there is any long term follow up with the schools involved.
It made me think of a recent meeting Clark and I had with a new associate. The meeting started off badly and then got worse. This person in about one hour’s time had placed many labels on Clark and I. I, of course being the more sensitive one was offended. The meeting ended and I felt I had been placed in a box with so many “mis” labels on it, I could have shipped to South Africa by UPS.
Clark asked after the meeting why I did not say anything and correct her “label” way of thinking. All I could muster was I did not want to get my blood pressure raised because this person was seeing “me” or “us” in cloudy glasses.
We talked some more and I realized I do not like boxes. Boxes are confining to me and to be labeled and labeled incorrectly drives me crazy. However, I realized I was not going to change this person nor did I want to. This person’s labels on me were hers not mine.
So it made me think “IF YOU REALLY KNEW ME” might be on to something and not just at the high school level. Maybe as adults we should reconsider our “labeling” abilities and find out about “If you really knew me…”
We might really then to get know each other on a more intimate level.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
A playgroup lesson
I am always in astonishment over events I can learn from my child. I know sometimes I am a late bloomer but this lesson held so much meaning to many of us that were there that day.
Emma and her playgroup have this unspoken rule if they harm someone intentionally or unintentionally they need to say sorry and hug. Sometimes the coaching needs to come from us as parents but the word and the actions need to occur (something as adults we should do more with each other).
However, recently her playgroup was at a park. One child was trying to climb up something and a second child was pulling on the first child to come down. This caused the first child to go into hysterics because then she thought she was being attacked and got scared. We as parents interceded but then...
and I say this with caution, the second child said, "I was only trying to help her down", and this child's parent said, "yeah, she was just trying to help the first child down."
Except, the first child was truly scared by the second child's actions. Had the child and the parent said "sorry" and insisted on hugs, the event would have been over and peace would have been restored but that did not occur this time.
And it is amazing how simple those words and the action can help a situation. It makes me think of all the times where "sorry" was appropriate but the words were never found. Where a hug was the right thing to do, but there was no arm outreached to embrace. It seems like the simplicity of saying "sorry" could change the tides of an event. It is such the simplest of acts that make such a difference.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
LARPD Board Candiate Bob Fourwheelbob Coomber
Livermore has one of the BEST Park and Rec department hands down. According to LARPD's website, ""The mission of the Livermore Area Recreation and Park District is to provide the people of this area with an outstanding system of parks, recreation areas and facilities, along with providing recreation programs that will stimulate, educate and enrich the lives of people within the District."
I know for our family their programs have been a great opportunity to explore life and try things at a reasonable or no cost.
However with all great organizations, they can be even better.
LARPD Board has an election this year and with great pleasure it is a privilege to say we know and fully endorse one of the candidates Bob Fourwheelbob Coomber.
We got to know Bob when we participated in the American Cancer Society Relay of Life of Livermore this year. I remember the first night we were at a Team Captain meeting and we were standing next to Bob. Emma was with me and I do not think she had ever been next to someone in a wheelchair for long periods. Bob let Emma explore the chair, the wheels and satisfied her general curiosity with such a gentleness. I was in awe.
On his website there is a quote, "Let me introduce you to one of the most inspirational people I have ever met. His name is Bob Coomber, but the hiking and backpacking world know him as simply, 4WheelBob. Every trail he takes, every mountain he climbs he inspires those he meets to reach deep inside themselves and take a fresh look at life. His is a story of grueling defeats and uplifting journeys."
Now this talks about the man, however does what he does. Try googling Bobs's name and he is the essence of anyone of anyone who should be on the LARPD Board.
Right now Bob is involved with East Bay Regional Park District’s
Hiking Adventures and each month, he "offers several lively write-ups on his favorite East Bay Regional Park District hiking trails. Half of his hikes will be geared toward relatively flat options with easy access, perfect for those with mobility devices, strollers, young kids on bikes, anyone really, who would simply like to explore the outdoors on a flat trail. The other half of his hikes are more challenging – he is, after all, the only person to climb 14,000’ White Mountain in a wheelchair. These challenge hikes include longer distances and higher elevations. No matter what you’re looking for, Bob is sure to have an option, and story, for you."
I truly hope as the election moves forward and when it comes time to vote, your decision will be for Bob. Don't just take my word for let, get to know Bob, he can be reached at bob@4wheelbob.com.
Note: I did not get paid or benefited from this personal endorsement. I truly believe in Bob, so let's get him elected.
Sources:
http://www.larpd.dst.ca.us/board/operations.html
http://www.ebparks.org
http://www.4wheelbob.com/
I know for our family their programs have been a great opportunity to explore life and try things at a reasonable or no cost.
However with all great organizations, they can be even better.
LARPD Board has an election this year and with great pleasure it is a privilege to say we know and fully endorse one of the candidates Bob Fourwheelbob Coomber.
We got to know Bob when we participated in the American Cancer Society Relay of Life of Livermore this year. I remember the first night we were at a Team Captain meeting and we were standing next to Bob. Emma was with me and I do not think she had ever been next to someone in a wheelchair for long periods. Bob let Emma explore the chair, the wheels and satisfied her general curiosity with such a gentleness. I was in awe.
On his website there is a quote, "Let me introduce you to one of the most inspirational people I have ever met. His name is Bob Coomber, but the hiking and backpacking world know him as simply, 4WheelBob. Every trail he takes, every mountain he climbs he inspires those he meets to reach deep inside themselves and take a fresh look at life. His is a story of grueling defeats and uplifting journeys."
Now this talks about the man, however does what he does. Try googling Bobs's name and he is the essence of anyone of anyone who should be on the LARPD Board.
Right now Bob is involved with East Bay Regional Park District’s
Hiking Adventures and each month, he "offers several lively write-ups on his favorite East Bay Regional Park District hiking trails. Half of his hikes will be geared toward relatively flat options with easy access, perfect for those with mobility devices, strollers, young kids on bikes, anyone really, who would simply like to explore the outdoors on a flat trail. The other half of his hikes are more challenging – he is, after all, the only person to climb 14,000’ White Mountain in a wheelchair. These challenge hikes include longer distances and higher elevations. No matter what you’re looking for, Bob is sure to have an option, and story, for you."
I truly hope as the election moves forward and when it comes time to vote, your decision will be for Bob. Don't just take my word for let, get to know Bob, he can be reached at bob@4wheelbob.com.
Note: I did not get paid or benefited from this personal endorsement. I truly believe in Bob, so let's get him elected.
Sources:
http://www.larpd.dst.ca.us/board/operations.html
http://www.ebparks.org
http://www.4wheelbob.com/
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Wake Up Call
So a week ago today it all started. I am not sure on how it all came on but I had a migraine from hell. Then it got worse. Finally last Wednesday I had to get a shot for the pain because the blood pressure was roof rocket high and actually also had to take blood pressure medicine.
During all of this, the doctors ran a bunch of tests. What came back was a whole lot of wake up calls and I dare say some genetics. Some of the changes had to be immediate which was easy when you do not feel good.
What a week it was. Really when I started to feel better, I then felt worse again and a shot of morphine took the edge away. I really felt like I had been run over.
Along the way, I had to get my head around having a medical issue. Not easy. I am 39 not 89 and I think this is where genetics and early care come in. I think of the consequences that could have happened and am so thankful life interrupted.
If I take care of this issue, I am told most other things will fall in line. So wish me luck, breaking a life long habits will be a challenge.
During all of this, the doctors ran a bunch of tests. What came back was a whole lot of wake up calls and I dare say some genetics. Some of the changes had to be immediate which was easy when you do not feel good.
What a week it was. Really when I started to feel better, I then felt worse again and a shot of morphine took the edge away. I really felt like I had been run over.
Along the way, I had to get my head around having a medical issue. Not easy. I am 39 not 89 and I think this is where genetics and early care come in. I think of the consequences that could have happened and am so thankful life interrupted.
If I take care of this issue, I am told most other things will fall in line. So wish me luck, breaking a life long habits will be a challenge.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Our wedding anniversary
Now: August 2,2010
Then: August 2,1997
Our 13th wedding anniversary!
We have lived a lifetime in 13 years. Somehow through the grace of God we have survived so many major life events. Who knew that among the highest joys and hardest laughs there would be cancer, infertility, job loss and parent death?
Who knew that at end of the day it is still you I reach for. Your hand and your touch. Your love is the song I hear most.
And our wedding song is still so revelant to me today as it was when we were married.
"When I fall in love
It will be forever
Or I'll never fall in love
In a restless world
Like this is
Love is ended before it's begun
And too many
Moonlight kisses
Seem to cool in the warmth of the sun
When I give my heart
I give it completely
Or I'll never give my heart
And the moment I can feel that you feel that way too
Is when I fall in love with you"
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Old friends Good Times
A gathering of us at Tiki Tom's Room. It was so much fun to mix and mingle.
After Tiki Tom's we went to Barely Legal Productions Presents: The Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Grand Lake Theater. I have not stayed up that late on purpose in many years. We had much fun.
Today many of us met at Shadow Cliff's for family day. It was nice but crazy hot.
Emma got a little bit too much heat and was a crank at the end, but what can you say when your 4 year old is outside about every day.
I loved seeing the old friends. It made me revisit parts of my past that I do not want to relive but glad I survived and hopefully in some ways am a better person because of it. It made me thankful for the life I have.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)