tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20980312787969278632024-02-07T04:17:24.167-08:00My Lucky FinChelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.comBlogger40125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-77219135452281712812019-07-16T17:23:00.001-07:002019-07-16T17:32:53.897-07:00Lucky Fin Project Weekend 2019! <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: black;">How do I
put into words what this weekend means each year? It seems like I go to write
this post and never know how to start or what to even say because I am
speechless. To start, look at this... </span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Do
yall get this?! There were 26 states represented. 4 countries and she confirmed
that there were over 700 people at this conference. What amazing thing for not
only Molly (the organization leader) but for all the families and people who
attended! 700 people that you can relate to in one way or another. 700 people
that have a limb difference or a family member who does. 700 people who flew
from all over to be here this weekend. Now you know why I have a hard time
putting into words how incredible this weekend is for us. </span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">This
year I decided to take my youngest with me; I thought it would be great for him
to see that his brother wasn't alone in the world with a limb difference, that
there are other people out there who have a lucky fin too! Well we had a blast
getting to Michigan because the boys were excited. We at one point had to
sprint all the way across the airport to make a connecting flight so picture
this. I have my 4-year-old in a carrier on my back, my big carryon bag on my
shoulder and carrying my 4-year old's backpack. Then my lucky fin is trying to
run next to us, but his backpack is weighing him down, so I take that and we
all take off together. I'm sure it was a site to see and holy cow was I
exhausted when we got to that gate! But we made it just in time! We then got to
our destination where our other lucky fin family picked us up and we took off
to the hotel! </span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">This
weekend was the same set up as last year, so it was nice since we had done it
all before. We saw some old friends that we had met and of course made new
ones. The kids were super happy to be able to run around after being confined
to airplanes and cars all day but we for sure passed out early that night
because we were all so tired. </span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">The
next day is the big main event day at the park. It's so nice to be surrounded
by so many amazing families and share stories. We watched as the kids played
and all swapped the typical questions; "Did you know before your child was
born?" "How did you react?" "Have they had to have
surgeries yet?" </span></div>
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<i><span style="color: #741b47;"><span style="color: orange;">As I type these out I realize that they are not typical
questions you ask other parents in a play group, but at this weekend, it's safe
and comforting to know, as a mom, I'm not alone and these questions are normal.
That other moms and dads out there understand what it was like to not know
before your child was born. To understand that terrifying feeling of your 8-month-old
going into surgery for the first time. To know that other parents have felt the
same way is something I am forever grateful for with the Lucky Fin Project
organization.</span><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></i></div>
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<span style="color: black;">One
of the best parts is to see your kid playing with other kids that are just like
him. To see the light bulb go off in his head knowing that he isn't alone in
this world, that he might be the only one in his school or that he plays with
but that he isn't alone. If there is one thing I hope he takes away from these
weekends is that he isn't alone and luckily I think he is already learning
that. </span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">So
after a full day at the park of playing, seeing police dog demonstrations,
firetrucks, making crafts, eating BBQ and having a great day we went back to
the hotel for a much needed nap before the night festivities began! Every year <a href="http://tonymemmel.com/wp/">Tony Memmel</a>, a one-handed guitarist, plays
a concert that the kids love and we as parents get to sit back and watch them
sing and dance and be in awe of how he plays. </span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Once
the concert is done we have the luxury of talking to all the other parents some
more as it is our final night. The kids continue to run around (how they still
have energy I will never know!) but it is such a fun and safe environment that
you can't help but enjoy. We got to meet some amazing people from the Florida
Lucky Fin chapter so that will be nice as we go through the year to have meet
ups and keep up with our Florida Lucky Fin family. </span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">To
say that I am grateful for Molly and the organization she has created would be
an understatement. She has helped me as a mom realize that it's ok to have
questions and to be scared. And she has given me a community of other parents
to be able to talk to and rely on when I feel like no one else gets it. But
more importantly she has given my son a community. I realized this last year
but now that we are another year in and another year older I was really able to
see him make friends and grow friendships from last year and it made me realize
it's all going to be ok. She has provided a community that we will always have
and that will just continue to grow. We have started the countdown already for
when we will be going again next year! </span></div>
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Thank you Molly and Ryan! We love you guys! </div>
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Not on purpose at all but the boys matched and the girls matched and then moms matched with our hats! </div>
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When you think you're cool because you got your mom's sunglasses</div>
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The three amigos</div>
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#LFPweekend2019 </div>
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Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-40898331615777507382019-07-07T19:28:00.001-07:002019-07-07T19:28:39.315-07:00For all you moms out there<div style="text-align: center;">
Disclaimer:</div>
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This post is going to be long and a little different than normal but it's been heavy on my mind lately. </div>
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One of my best friends is going back to work tomorrow from maternity leave so this topic has come up quite a bit. Why can't we work remote? Why do we have to leave our kid and go back to work? Why do we have to sacrifice our time with them to also provide for them. Why? We both have asked this question, her more recently than I but it brought back all those familiar feelings I had gone through when I started back to work.<br />
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As a mom, there is this love for your child that cannot be explained and no one can parent better than you right? It doesn't matter if your chosen day care has a 1:1 ratio, it's not you. It doesn't matter that dad get's to stay home with your newborn, it's not you and it sucks. <br />
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I remember when my kids were both first born thinking, how could I ever leave them? At the time, I was lucky enough to stay home for the first few years but then things got tight and I needed an outlet so we thought, why not try a temp position and give me working a shot. It was great! I got called real quick, interviewed and them hired all within a week and I was so excited. But then reality set in of leaving my boys, my babies. They would stay with their dad some of the time when he wasn't working but then the other times I would drop them off and pick them up from a baby sitter. Now, she was amazing and I couldn't have asked for better, but she wasn't me. Their dad was their dad, but it wasn't me. It was so hard getting those message during the day of what the boys were doing, how they were playing or napping or whatever it was that day, it was hard but I loved it.<br />
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I had finally found a job that I was good at and actually enjoyed so I struggled with feeling like I shouldn't be happy to go to work, I felt guilty that I was leaving my kids, that "someone else was raising them", and I felt guilty that I loved my job. Where is that line? Why can't I, as a mom, feel good about both? Why has society created this thing of working mom vs stay at home moms? There's shouldn't be this divide and should be support from all around.<br />
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Again, I was a stay at home mom for 3 years so I know all that goes into that and just needing a break. I remember those exhausting days where my newborn wouldn't stop crying and my 1 year old wouldn't listen and I just needed someone to come help. Help me with dinner, or laundry or taking the kids for 10 min so I could cry in peace. Those days that felt endless because everyone was crying (including me!) I remember this one time I locked myself in the closet. Jude was super attached that day and Cooper wouldn't stop crying. No one was listening and I was home alone with no help and I just needed a break. I put the TV on and made sure Cooper was safe and walked into my closet and locked myself in there. It wasn't more than 2 seconds later, Jude was banging on the door yelling while Cooper screamed in the background. I know the struggles of being a stay at home mom all too well and it can be exhausting.<br />
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But now I also now know the struggles of being a working mom. The getting up super early and having to wake the kids before the sun, get me ready and get them ready and rush out the door. Some mornings are great and go without an issue and others I am almost in tears when we are getting in the car because nothing has gone as planned. I'm telling the kids to please just give mommy a moment without saying anything.. Then dropping them off at school, rushing to work to get there on time and be a good employee. Talk to people all day because that's my job and then hurry home to feed the kids, bath, books and then bed. - Somedays I feel like I barely see my children but when they go to bed I am relieved but miss them so much. - Oh, and then after dinner do all the housework, clean up from dinner, take care of the dog, shower and maybe get some TV or a book in before passing out so we can repeat it all the next day.<br />
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As exhausting as all of this seems, I wouldn't trade either for anything. I loved being a stay at home mom and feel blessed that I had that opportunity because not everyone does. Being able to have those days that everything flowed perfectly. Playdates with other kids and moms, pool time or going to the zoo. I remember it all like it was yesterday and I miss it. Or the days where we all get up happy in the morning and they get ready for school while I now get ready for work and we get in the car happy and I cry as I leave them because I just wish I could stay and play all day.<br />
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But what about that guilt? How are we supposed to deal with it? If we stay at home, society says we should work, if we work, society says we should stay at home. We can't win. But what we can do is show up for our kids. Whether we work or stay home, we can be there. Don't get me wrong, everyone has a bad day or kids that don't want to listen but that's when we can show them compassion. Show them it's ok to have a bad day, mom has bad days often! But it's how they act and respond to that bad day that will determine how the rest of the day plays out.<br />
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We can stay at home with our kids knowing that this is what is needed in life right now. Don't feel guilty for "not contributing" because you are! I'm sure we have all seen it but you are the chef, the maid, the butler, the homemaker, the educator, the business manager, the _____ fill in the blank on what you do everyday and feel good about yourself! What you are doing is some of the hardest work as being a stay at home mom. It's not easy and not everyone can do it so I applaud you. You don't have to be that "Pinterest" mom because guess what, she doesn't exist! But kudos to you stay at home moms!<br />
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And to the working moms... Stop feeling guilty for working! Trust me, I feel like that often, especially when my kids are sitting in the back seat as we go to school and they are asking why I have to work and I can't stay and play with them. It kills me every time but I also get to show them what a hard working mom looks like. I get to be excited when we can splurge on a new toy because I worked for that for them. To see their little faces light up when I come home with new Nerf guns for a war we are going to have. I feel guilty leaving them almost everyday, but I know that I get to provide and show them a hard working mom and for that, I am proud.<br />
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Last thing that I want to pass on is this: Create new traditions. </div>
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When I was a stay at home mom we had some things that we did weekly, whether it was a bible study, weekly play date, one on one time with them, it was something. So when I started working I felt terrible that I couldn't do all of that with them. Especially since their dad and I share time, my weekends are precious time and it's hard to fit everything in that we want. But I started movie night with the boys. Every Friday night that I have them, we watch a movie. They always want to stay up late and I am always exhausted from work but wanted special time with them so movie night happened. We have what is called "snack dinner" (A bunch of healthy items they choose from to eat little bits of; strawberries, cheese sticks, peanut butter crackers, etc.) and they eat in front of the TV watching whatever movie we decide on that night. When they are done with dinner they climb on the couch and I attempt cuddles which sometimes works and other times not. Either way, my kids love this new tradition and it has helped me not feel as guilty being a working mom. </div>
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Anyway, hopefully this helps, or maybe it's just me being able to feel better about it all, either way your kids will grow up knowing you loved them. Stay at home mom or working mom, it doesn't matter.<br />
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Hopefully some of this can help!<br />
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Have a Blessed Day </div>
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Good Resources:</div>
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<a href="https://www.mother.ly/work/when-all-you-feel-is-guilt-a-letter-to-new-working-moms?fbclid=IwAR13UwcWeswYWuf_ejjN3dEqrLLnKM4lyMbYiWgtk3vJRnQPj5tUwR1BZqY">When all you feel is guilt</a></div>
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Instagram Accounts:</div>
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thismamawines</div>
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words_of_women</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
motherhoodunderstood</div>
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themilkcamp</div>
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bad_mum_</div>
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themomatlaw</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
the_mum_manual</div>
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<br />Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-26227275498357938992019-05-23T19:30:00.001-07:002019-05-23T19:30:16.471-07:00Hello 5k!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghqxitWVUhuqHhCpglJXxmCnpd3eDBnjTlPcLd8FeiJ7f2R-xEgMQaUU8bhN61loHNIHRCoB6KnK6XzRI_7q3sl85PMWKEcCm8Ykh_dUE52OhMG8E4cYXFPP9xJpxMwo1MKFMHHLa7a6Q/s1600/lucky+fin+5k++jpeg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="215" data-original-width="432" height="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghqxitWVUhuqHhCpglJXxmCnpd3eDBnjTlPcLd8FeiJ7f2R-xEgMQaUU8bhN61loHNIHRCoB6KnK6XzRI_7q3sl85PMWKEcCm8Ykh_dUE52OhMG8E4cYXFPP9xJpxMwo1MKFMHHLa7a6Q/s320/lucky+fin+5k++jpeg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
So I am super excited to announce that we have officially launched a 5k for April of 2020! Yes, that is forever away but if we want to make the most of it, we have to start now right?! This will be the first of [hopefully] many races to come to benefit the Lucky Fin Project. It has been so near and dear to our hearts and I can't imagine my son not having the support. We went to the LFP weekend last year and he still talks about it to this day and asks when we are going back. He loved to see that he wasn't alone and other kids "like him" were out there. We are hoping that this 5k can do that on a local level now too. How cool would it be to have a ton of kids with limb differences start this race off?! I'm pretty sure I would ball my eyes out!<br />
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Anyway, how did this come about you might wonder? Well I personally decided in 2019 that I would run at least 1 5k a month or 12 in a year depending on how hot summer can be here is sunny Florida! I ran my first one in February and my little lucky fin ran the race with me and loved it! Since then I have run several and each time he hears that I am running one without him, he gets upset. He loves loves loves to run 5k's with me and he is actually really good at it for only being 5 years old! So as I started running these, I started thinking about hosting one. Me and my party planning background got thinking that this could be totally do-able, especially if we have a year to plan and prep for the race. Once I decided that I would do this for my son and the LFP, it was all over. I have been working non stop for the last few weeks on securing location and possible vendors and sponsorships. Where do we get shirts, who will help with all of this? Those are all the things that have been going on and then some! Luckily I have a super solid team of people who have stepped in to help me make this run come true and I am super blessed to have them! So now let the games begin!<br />
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On another note, all is well in the crazy lucky fin house over here. My lucky fin has his VPK graduation next week and I am already crying now. How is he already this old and going into kindergarten?? I remember when he was born like it was a month ago! Trying to figure out mom-hood and then all of his fingers and toes and surgeries and doctors appointments and now we are going into kindergarten?! Holy. Crap.<br />
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And my youngest is loving school and also loving anything and everything his brother does. Until it's annoying and then he is miserable! Hope my kids are not the only ones like this! They love the heck out of each other and then in a matter of seconds they are fighting. I just don't get it, but overall the boys are doing great and we are excited to go back to the LFP weekend coming up in July! If you don't know about it, check out the LFP website (under Helpful Sites) and you can learn more about it there. I highly encourage anyone with a child who has a limb difference; go. I promise you wont regret it!<br />
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Some updated pictures! </div>
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My brother came into town from California and I convinced him to run a 1 mile with my little lucky fin because he was mad he didn't get to run the full race with me.</div>
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They finished! </div>
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So proud of him! And love that he had to take his short off LOL</div>
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Our Easter together </div>
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My sweet sweet family</div>
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We had a great mothers day! Like their winks??</div>
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How could this not make you smile?! </div>
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Have a blessed day :) </div>
<br />Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-47089990150143810752019-03-02T11:36:00.001-08:002019-03-02T11:36:27.619-08:00What a YearHoly Crap. So honestly, I forgot that I had this blog. Oops! But we have an event tonight at Shriners and it made me remember that I used to tell my sons story. Although things have slowed down for him I still want to be able to share his life (and ours) in hopes to help others and show that all will be ok!<br />
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Let's catch you up... 2017 and the beginning of 2018 were a long year for us.. We went through some household changes where my boys dad and I split and it resulted in divorce. As you can imagine this is not what anyone wants when they get married and I think even more so when there are kids involved. But after a long year we are all doing very well. They boys have adjusted and I am so so grateful that they have. I have tried to be open and honest with them now that I am a single mom, show them that it's ok to be upset or struggle or have bad days. That everyone is able to have their own feelings and emotions but it how we deal with those that will effect us and those around us. The past few years have really taught me so many different life lessons that although they were hard to learn, I am grateful that I learned them at young age. I truly believe that one day my story will be able to help my kids with whatever they might be going through. And to always be honest with them so they know they can trust me as their mom, even when life throws big curve balls that no one was expecting.<br />
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With all of that life has brought many new and amazing things for me and the boys! We have a great little place that they helped paint and pick out everything for their new room which I think helped with the transition of our new life. We also got a puppy and he was a perfect addition to our family. Although it's like having 3 toddlers in the house sometimes, it's still so much fun! Plus when the boys are with their dad, I have a little companion that I get to hang out with and he makes sure to protect me from all the big bad scary squirrels in the backyard! lol. On top of a new place and a new dog, I got the most amazing job a mom could ask for! I wasn't looking for a new job as I was very happy where I was but this was the most perfect time and such a great opportunity that I couldn't pass it up. I get to run my own department and have the flexibility to be there for my kids at any time needed. I have been able to create processes and procedures and new programs within the company as well which I love being able to do! On top of all of that, I met the most amazing man ever., and I couldn't be happier! Needless to say that even through all the bad, there were so many great things that came out of it all that I can't help but look back and see that we are going to be alright.<br />
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Now for my little lucky fin update! He is doing so well! His teachers in VPK say that he is excelling above normal and that he is all set and ready for kindergarten next year. (Ask me if I'm ready though! :( the answer is no!) But he loves school and loves all of his friends there, it's great to see him thriving and to be so happy. We had a check up this week at Shriners, our yearly visit and we got the awesome news that we don't need to go back for another year!! This is great because his toenail was growing back and we weren't sure if it was going to need surgery or not so I am thrilled that the answer was no for that.<br />
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And like I said earlier, we have an event tonight for Shriners that he is so excited about! The local college has an organization and they are raising money for Shriners hospital! They told me that about their dance marathon when I was there learning about opportunities for my company. Well I immediately felt like we should be part of this with my company and with my lucky fin. So I went into our CEO's office and told him what the school was doing and that we could sponsor if he was open to it, his response was lets do the highest level sponsorship that we can! I was so surprised and started crying at my desk. How lucky was I that I could do this even for work and for my kid! Plus, the students can't sit for 24 hours and they tell people that "they are standing for kids who can't", now tell me that doesn't get you right in the feelers?! I have goosebumps even thinking about it. So we are doing that tonight and hopefully get to meet some other Shriners kids while we are there but my lucky fin also gets to share his story to others. We are so so excited!<br />
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My youngest... oh Lord. He is the biggest cuddle bug ever but also the biggest fireball ever. Boy does that child have a hot head and is stubborn but when he is sweet, it makes you forget everything else! I tell him he's lucky he's so cute lol. But he is doing really well and in preschool, we have the option to hold him back another year or put him in VPK so now are are trying to asses what is best for him in the long run because he has that weird birthday where he could do either or.<br />
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Both boys are so creative and come up with elaborate make believe stories that sometime blow my mind. I love that I get to be their mom and watch them grow and learn and become such little men! My oldest will open my car door from time to time (so he can climb in) but he also makes sure to say that he open the door for his pretty mommy because that's what boys do. Talk about melting my heart! Don't get me wrong, this is rare but it sticks with me and I hope that one day they will grow up to be such great little gentlemen that make me proud!<br />
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Here are some picture of us over the last few months!<br />
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This is Spencer! The newest addition to the family. </div>
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Took the boys to a baseball game and they absolutely loved it! </div>
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He's amazing and the boys love him! </div>
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Fresh new haircuts. When did they get so big?! </div>
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Some fun quality time when I was off work. </div>
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He was so mesmerized and stood there for so long. </div>
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We ran a 5k! It was supposed to be a stroller walk but my lucky fin wanted to run so I took off with him while his little brother relaxed in the stroller the whole time! </div>
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It was raining the other night and my lucky fin wanted to walk his little bro out to the car so he wouldn't get wet! These boys have a brotherly love that is beyond adorable! </div>
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Have a blessed day :) </div>
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<br />Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-50059463911541086522018-07-23T18:07:00.000-07:002018-07-23T18:07:22.341-07:00Lucky Fin Project WeekendHoly Crap. That is the only way to start this post. What an amazing weekend Jude and I just had up in Troy, Michigan with the Lucky Fin Project. For those of you that haven't heard of it, please go check it out here:<br />
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This organization was started by Molly and her daughter Ryan who was born with a limb difference on her hand. When Jude was born I found this organization online through Facebook I believe and as a new mom with a son effected by ABS, it was a lifesaver. It was nice to know that I wasn't alone and that there were other kids out there like him. As Jude got older I kept seeing this thing called Lucky Fin Project Weekend and I always thought how cool it would be to take him. Well this year we got to go! Within 3 weeks, I decided that this would be super beneficial because he is starting VPK this year and I wanted him to know that he wasn't alone, that there were other kids out there like him and that it was ok to be different.<br />
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So Friday morning we got up super early and drove to the airport, the whole way there he was so excited to fly on a plane! It was adorable, until he asked me for the 1,000th time, "are we there yet." I finally had to tell him that I promised to let him know as soon as we got to the airport! Well we get there and all goes well and we are sitting by our gate with this young lady walks by who is missing part of her arm and she is wearing pants that say Lucky Fin Project on them. Now, we just drove almost 2 hours to get to the airport so I said, "you must be going to the Lucky Fin Project weekend I assume?" Of course though, why else would she by flying to Michigan?! Either way it started an awesome conversation with her and the young man that was with her who was missing an arm and a leg. They were so sweet to Jude and showed him their "robot" arms and legs and he was in awe. This is where I think it all started to make sense in his little head.<br />
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The first night we were there was just a socialization for every parent and child that was going to be part of this weekend. Jude met friends right away and started running around the hotel with the other kids while the parents and I talked. It was amazing to hear their stories and see each childs difference. Not only that but the kids didn't seem to notice but when asked, they all showed you their limb difference. As the kids were running a mom and her daughter came up and started playing and talking to us. We immediately hit it off and hung out the rest of the weekend and the kids became inseparable, it was beyond adorable and we can hear the wedding bells now! We will call her miss lucky fin. We ended up hanging out at the pool with them and Jude got to show off his amazing swimming skills. Really won over his little girlfriend ;)<br />
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The next day was the picnic and this is where it hit home for me. There were 500 people registered for this event. 500! So picture this, 500 people there either as part of the family or the person with the limb difference, but here, it was normal. Siblings were used to it, parents talking to other parents about their stories and their lucky fin kid, and kids playing with other kids that were just like them. Unique. It was amazing and I don't have quite the capacity to describe the feeling as a mom. But Jude lite up and would come running back to me and say "mom! There are so many other people like me!" It made me smile and get tears in my eyes. The other cool thing was when the Lucky Fin ambassadors would dote on my child. They entertained him when he wanted to see their "robot" arm and he was fascinated.<br />
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Side story: </div>
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We went to Starbucks on our way to the picnic and one of the Lucky Finers was there who we hadn't met the night before. Jude saw her and said "Mommy, she has a cool robot arm, can I go tell her that she's my hero?" I immediately said yes and we walked over to tell her and she was so sweet about it! She came back to our table to talked to us while we all waited for our drinks and she showed Jude her amazing arm and all that she could do with it. She was so amazing with Jude and made such an impact on both of us, I can't thank you enough! You are why he became so comfortable showing his hands and he talks about you still. </div>
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Anyway, so after the park we went back to the hotel to rest and clean up before our Lucky Fin concert that night! Tony Memmel is a one handed guitar player and is amazing! He was playing baseball with the kids earlier and then put on a concert for us later that night. It was so cool to see so many people try to jam into a tiny conference room and to know that everyone had been through roughly the same thing. If you want to see more about Tony his link will be at the bottom of this post! So Tony played and all the kids sang and Jude loved it and said he can't wait to play guitar one day like him! After the concert was over we hung out with little miss lucky fin and her mom, as we had been doing all weekend but this was our last night :( . There were so many people hanging out and playing together as parents continued to talk and share stories. It's just something that can't be forgotten.<br />
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The next morning we woke up and met up with miss lucky fin and her mom to have a fair well breakfast as they live in Chicago and we are in Florida. So the kids ate and played and then we sat with some other ambassadors from the Lucky Fin Project and put stickers and gems all over each other with some Stump Kitchen tattoos (see that link below too!!) It was a perfect way to end the trip. To say we were sad to leave is an understatement but to be able to have taken my son and see how much he changed in the matter of a few short days. By the end we would take pictures and they would all show their lucky fins, so proud and happy. It makes me tear up when I think about it and to have seen him grow so much. Not only that but I was able to talk to other parents. I went into this all for him, to make sure he had a good time and knew that even if he was the only one in his school like that, it was ok because there were other kids out there just like him. But I was able to get ideas off other parents, share my story and my struggles with people who understand exactly what I am going through. With that, I was able to see older kids with no problems whatsoever and it gave me hope. Not that I thought Jude wouldn't be able to do anything but it's comforting to see that he is not alone. That we are not alone.<br />
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We flew back on Sunday with reluctance. Jude did not want to go and neither did I, we had made such good friends and memories that we are counting down the days until next year! We got on our plane with the pleasant surprise that the young lady and gentleman who were on our flight there, were also on our flight back. Jude was quite excited to see them as we had hung out with them a few times this weekend. As we got off the plane and looked and me and said, "there they are mom! Can I go say goodbye?" And with my yes, he ran up yelling their names to make sure he said goodbye to them.<br />
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Lucky Fin Project was a big aspect of our lives before this weekend but since then it has become even bigger. Jude has come back talking about our trip and showing people his fingers and toes and telling him that he is not alone, that there are people like him and that he is super cool! It brings so much joy to see him be so proud. Thank you Lucky Fin.<br />
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Here are some pictures from our trip:<br />
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Waiting to board our plane! </div>
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This kid had the hook up for the flight over! Finding Nemo pillow included ha! </div>
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Making sure he looked cool in all his new swag</div>
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Molly and her daughter Ryan! Can't thank her enough! <3 </div>
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Miss Lucky Fin! Melt my heart! </div>
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Jude loved Brian who was a one handed drummer</div>
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Ashley, one of the ambassadors who flew there and back with us! </div>
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Rebekah who is also an ambassador! </div>
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This is the lady who runs Stump Kitchen! </div>
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How cute are they?!</div>
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Tony Memmel before his concert</div>
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Rocking our Lucky Fin gear</div>
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Love our new friends! </div>
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Saying goodbye to Molly :( </div>
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Some of the amazing kids Jude met! </div>
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Tony Memmel - <a href="http://tonymemmel.com/wp/">http://tonymemmel.com/wp/</a><br />
Stump Kitchen - <a href="https://www.stumpkitchen.com/">https://www.stumpkitchen.com/</a></div>
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Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-53960950332282194142018-01-07T19:46:00.002-08:002018-01-07T19:46:29.848-08:001 Year LaterWow. I can't believe that it has been a year since I last wrote! There has been so much going on in our lives its hard to think of where to start.<br />
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It's been a busy year for the Spenceley family and not always in the best way but I will start with my perfect little lucky fin. (Pardon as this blog might be all over the place trying to catch everyone up!) <br />
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My lucky fin had surgery again in August to separate his toes and release the last band around his pinky finger on the right hand. It was supposed to be about 2-3 hours depending on how long the fingers and toes took. They were only supposed to be releasing one toe from the other 2 because of how the toenail continued to grow back and risk infection in the other toes. Well when the surgeon came out he told us that he was able to release all 3 toes and he now had 5 toes! And his finger was nice and simple as well. This was the pinky finger that we thought he would lose the tip of on the last surgery because they weren't sure they could keep it and get blood flow to the tip of the finger where the bad was. Luckily the surgeon was able to release that bad with no complications and our lucky fin did awesome. <br />
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(Top two on the left are before surgery. Next 2 are post surgery where he insisted he walk himself out of the hospital. Following pictures are right after the casts came off and then a few weeks after when they are healed)</div>
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We escaped for the crazy hurricane that was trying to run over Florida this year! We went up with my mom to her friends house in Alabama. It took us about 8 hours to go 6 so that's not bad all things considered! But we got there around 11:30 pm and when I opened the door I was greeted by 4 donkeys and a horse. I thought I was seeing things but no, it was for real! And then I got my youngest out of the car and he was petting a donkey and I tried to push him away so we could close the car door and he bit me. Ok, maybe not really bite because they were super sweet animals, but he definitely nibbled my arm and took my sons sock off. Needless to say, my kids had a great time on this mini farm and it was a nice little get away while the weather was bad back home.<br />
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The oldest (the lucky fin) has been growing into such a little boy over the last year that it's hard to believe that he is 4 years old now. He and his little brother started preschool in October and they absolutely love it and it's awesome to see them grow and learn. One of my favorite things is when they come home with project or art work and they are so excited to tell me all about what they made. I have a huge stack of their artwork in my room and my lucky fin always goes through it and wants to go over every piece of art he's made. Every time he is in my room this happens! His little brother does the same but he is still learning to talk so it can be comical listening to him try and tell me about what he has made. This was their first day of school!<br />
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Short funny story: The boys were supposed to be batman and robin for halloween. Their dad got them their costumes and they lived in them the week leading up to halloween. Well come day of and my youngest wants nothing to do with his robin costume... totally refused. So his dad put him in spiderman and here they are! </div>
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The boys also had their first airplane ride up to Virginia! This trip was such a last minute (stressful) trip and when I say last minute I mean super last minute. My parents went up there for a wedding and I didn't have anyone to watch the boys on Friday while I was at work so I had to take off unfortunately. But it worked out because late Thursday night I was on the phone with my mom buying plane tickets to have a weekend getaway with the kids and we flew out Friday morning at 9:30 am! Talk about crazy but they boys had so much fun that it was well worth it in the end. </div>
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I think I have hit all the major life updates for this last year. It was a busy one that's for sure (clearly since I didn't post for a year!) but we are now in 2018 and I'm sure this will be a better year to come. The boys are growing up into sweet little boys that have a love/hate relationship. My lucky fin protects his little brother and the youngest does his best to annoy him :) Here are a few more pictures from our year.<br />
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We had a girlfriend of mine take some photos of me and the boys</div>
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Some good friends got married and I was in the wedding and my lucky fin was the ring bearer! </div>
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They loved seeing Santa! </div>
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After their first school Christmas play</div>
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Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Spenceley boys! </div>
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<br />Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-42769693653629694072017-01-07T19:02:00.002-08:002018-07-19T12:44:35.297-07:00Flip FlopsI know it's been a while and I feel like every time I post I start with that! Whatever haha. Anyway, our life was very crazy starting in October through December. I started my own wedding and event company and we had 16 events between those few months. I wasn't fully prepared to be that busy but I loved every minute!! Shameless plug - you can check us out at <a href="http://facebook.com/chelsearaeweddingsandevents">facebook.com/chelsearaeweddingsandevents</a> ! (We travel too ;) )<br />
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Anyway back to my kiddo! So he has grown up so much the last few months. Each time he gets up in the morning I look at him and think "how in the world did he get so big over night?!" He is a wonderful brother - for the most part - and loves helping his little brother and tries to help take care of him, sometimes too much and annoys him haha. He also loves to clean! How did I get a 3 year old who loves to clean? I don't know but I'm ok with it all! Our lucky fin loves to play outside and ride his little 4-wheeler and laugh as he goes on by, it's so funny to watch!<br />
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However, as we go I wake up, often, dreading, the fact that he will notice his fingers and toes more and more. He has brought up the fact that Cooper has bigger fingers and his fingers are still baby fingers. To that I just tell him that God made his special but he insists that his fingers are just babies haha.<br />
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But this morning was different. We were walking around Target and made it into the shoe section and saw some Paw Patrol flip flops and said "mommy! I want those flip flops." To which I proceeded to tell him that no, we were not getting him flip flops. Fast forward and he is telling me how Cooper can have flip flops but not him... This is where I died a little. I knew it was coming. I had to tell him that God made him special, that he couldn't wear flip flops because he doesn't have toes on one foot. I had to stop and explain to him, a 3 year old, why he couldn't have these flip flops. It was heartbreaking but it was the first step in what is to come as each day passes. He ended up crying, I think it had more to do with the fact that he couldn't have the flip flops rather than not having toes, but it still stayed with me the rest of the day. One day he will fully understand and that is the day I am not looking forward too.<br />
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As far as surgeries go, we have an appointment at the end of the month with Shriners to go over his next surgery on his hand. That should take place probably February or March I would assume. I will have a better update after we meet with the doctors in a few weeks.<br />
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Have A Blessed Day!</div>
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<br />Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-68539820221842387762016-09-01T20:42:00.001-07:002018-07-19T12:45:05.538-07:00Inside the womb! I found this amazing video! I may have posted it before but I don't think so... Anyway, It's a great video that shows ABS inside the womb! It's an awesome insight into what it looks like from the inside!<br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UurH8SsVoIM">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UurH8SsVoIM</a><br />
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And now for a short update on our awesome lucky fin!<br />
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We went to Shriners a few weeks ago for a check up since it's been over a year since his last surgery (crazy! I know!) Well let me back up. A few days before his appointment I noticed something rough on his foot - the one with ABS - and I thought it was just a calace and it turned out to be his toenail growing back. The one we had removed with the very first surgery! So needless to say, I was happy to have an appointment a few days later.<br />
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While we were there we saw our wonderful surgeon who has taken great care of my baby. He was very impressed with how everything was progressing but... more surgery to come. Yes yes, we knew there would be more but not this soon. The pinky finger tip that he saved, well he didn't release the band because he was focused on saving the tip like we asked him to do. This means that we need to go back in and release the band and potentially remove the toenail again. With that he will separate the 4th toe from the 3rd, this way if the toenail ever grows back, we won't have to worry about it!<br />
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Talk about shock! I was expecting a "good job, looks great, see you in a year!" and instead we got the news of surgery much sooner. On the bright side, they all were very impressed with our lucky fin! He would walk around showing people his hands and toes because we have asked him so often to do so; which they had never seen. He sat politely and used his manners; it made me proud :)<br />
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And as far as the littlest one goes, well he is doing fantastic! Growing and eating like a weed and is trying so hard to keep up and copy his older brother :) I couldn't ask for better boys!<br />
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The day before he screamed because he got the red spoon... he loved it the next day.. Life of a toddler!</div>
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My sweet little one! </div>
<br />Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-5430935079642583802016-04-11T18:43:00.003-07:002016-04-11T18:43:50.928-07:00My Miracle From HeavenHave you heard of the new movie that is out called <i>Miracles from Heaven</i>? If you haven't, I highly suggest watching the trailer and then going to see the movie! Anyway, a little back story on the movie (no spoilers, I promise!) It's about a little girl who was diagnosed with a very rare digestive disorder that consumes her life and ultimately would lead to death. There is no cure for what she had but yet here she is, alive and well! How you might wonder? Well, after a routine hospital visit she went back home and although was told not to, she was climbing a tree with her sister and fell head down 30 ft and was knocked unconscious. Amazingly enough she came out of that (3 hours later) with only a minor concussion and some bruises and cuts. Over the next few days and weeks she starts getting better! They go back to visit the doctor and the results show that she is cured of the disease that had taken so many lives! Miraculous right??<div>
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What does this have to do with ABS or our lucky fin? Everything.</div>
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Throughout the entire story you sob and ball and cry and end up with make up all over your face by the end of the movie. For all the obvious reasons because it is a tear jerker. But for more, un-obvious reasons as well. </div>
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I remember when our lucky fin was born being so angry that God had picked him because we had specifically prayed that our child would be healthy with "10 fingers and 10 toes." That may sound silly to some but we prayed it and our son came out missing fingers and toes. My husband and I had so many late night talks about being frustrated or mad at the situation. About possibly loosing faith because God had clearly ignored our prayers. Why would He do that? I still don't have the answer, so if that's what you're looking for; I'm sorry. But this movie was an eye opener. I realized that although I knew I wasn't alone, this reassured me that there are others out there going through things far worse than I and having the same questions I had/have. </div>
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Not only did I cry because it was a sad movie, or because I am a mom and couldn't imagine going through what this mom endured. No. It was because all of her emotions were the same as that I had. All of her reactions were the same. Everything about it was so similar to me and my story with my son. </div>
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Now please don't get me wrong, I know that our lucky fin's condition was and is not life and death like this mother had to endure. I can't even imagine. But the hospital scenes of a child hooked up to monitors, crying, wanting to go home. I've been there. To see your child like a limp noodle because of the surgery they have gone through.. I have been there. And although we are done with surgeries for now, there is no guarantee that we are done forever. </div>
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I feel like this post is such a hot mess of stories and emotions that nothing is coming off clearly... </div>
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Either way, I highly recommend all my fellow ABS family members to go watch this film, whether you are a Christian or not, I think you will be able to relate to all of the emotions that mom dealt with and all the questions she had during the time her child was sick.</div>
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It was an incredible movie! But be prepared to be emotionally drained after ;) Don't say I didn't warn ya! </div>
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*No, I am not getting paid to advertise this movie! But here is a link to the trailer!*</div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CqPH9Wr1TpQ" target="_blank">Miracles From Heaven</a></div>
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Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-16749548841450206152016-01-12T12:22:00.002-08:002016-01-12T12:22:55.425-08:00Eat, Poop, Sleep, Repeat As I was looking over the blog thinking "hmm maybe I should write a post, let me see the last time I wrote something.. Nov 8th?!!" My apologies for such a long gap in posts; I will try and be much better about it from here on out! Although I will say, I started this blog to help anyone out dealing with the same situations and now that surgeries are done we seem to be in limbo. I am however, preparing myself for the questions to come about his fingers and toes now that he is getting older as are his friends.<br />
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Speaking of which - There was a friend not too long ago that we play with almost every week, he is 3 and Jude is obviously 2. Anyway. He has never noticed my sons finger or toes until the other day and he pointed and said "what happened to his toes?" And my friend ever so sweetly just said, "God made him extra special." Why can't every parent respond this way?! Oh how I wish. Melted my heart as they moved right along to play like nothing was different.<br />
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Anyway back to how he is doing.<br />
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We started potty training and it's actually going very well!! I am impressed with how little accidents he has. Except... when he does have one, it's massive. I mean... pee is just everywhere. But! We started and that's all that matters. He is officially a big boy! We started with the three day method which seemed to work very well. And I know most parents do the full on naked day one, we decided to start with pants, this way he got used to it straight from the beginning and it worked perfectly! Needless to say I am happy to only have one in diapers now!<br />
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As for his little brother, well... not so little anymore. Out little chuck (my linebacker as I call him) is roughly only 10 pounds lighter than Jude and he continues to grow! He is trying to crawl and even though he can't get around by crawling, he is a huge mover.<br />
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Here are some updated pictures :) </div>
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He was trying to copy mama :)</div>
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Our newest baby - Ellie Mae </div>
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Cutest ever right??</div>
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These were their "matching" Christmas Eve jammies! </div>
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Have A Blessed Day!</div>
Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-29996025767351494962015-11-08T19:54:00.002-08:002018-07-19T12:46:13.007-07:00A birthday Never To Forget! So our lucky fin turned two on October 19! It was totally awesome too because my husband has been working 6 nights week to help pay off some bills that we have and don't want to worry about anymore. Anyway, he is only off Sunday and half day Monday before he goes back to work on Monday nights. (I know, he's my hero too ;) )Well, Jude's birthday happened to fall on a Monday! Talk about awesome timing! Jude got to spend his birthday with both his parents and of course his little baby brother. And boy did he have a blast. Let's see... We went to his swim class that morning, he loves to swim and is just like Nemo when it comes to being like a fish. After that he had a celebratory breakfast where he got to eat whatever he wanted. Mostly ended up being bacon though; just like his father. After, we went back to swim so he could watch his little brother float around in the pool. Next we went to the store and he got to help pick his present! We had a few things in mind and as silly as it may sound (letting a two year old decide) we let him pick hi gift and he chose an awesome tool table! Daddy was able to set it up during his nap so when he woke up it was all there and ready to play with. His face was priceless. - I should mention he got to help dad build it and then threw a fit when it was nap time but was a brand new person coming down the stairs to play with his toy the rest of the day. -<br />
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After that we helped dad get ready for worked and gave him a big ole hug and kiss goodbye as he went off to be mommies hero <3 Soon after I took the boys to Sams to get some pizza for Jude's dinner. I think if I let him, he would eat pizza every meal and eventually turn into a pizza haha. So he of course loved that and got a celebratory Sprite so obviously he was in heaven over that! </div>
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Then what came next melted my heart. </div>
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So every Monday night we go to our friends house to have dinner and fellowship. Everyone there (sometimes 25 people) love my kids and let me take a break as a mom for just a few hours. Since it was Jude's birthday they were extra awesome to him. But here's where it gets super sweet. Some of our friends were going out to the store and while there made a phone call back to the house. My friend on the phone asked Jude if he wanted chocolate or vanilla. Jude immediately answered with "vanilla" and before I knew it they hung up the phone and were at the house with a vanilla cake for Jude. We all sang and he got to blow out the candles (many times I might add). He is so blessed and he doesn't even realize it. Needless to say he had a blast and ate way to much cake I'm sure.</div>
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So there was his actual birthday.</div>
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Throughout the week people kept stopping by with gifts for him and he just kept saying "happy to me" - meaning happy birthday to me! haha - </div>
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The following Sunday we threw him a nice big spiderman birthday party (he's obsessed with spiderman) at the park near our house. Everyone came and Jude was in heaven! He got to eat more junk food, play on the park, eat more cake and get presents. What kid wouldn't like that? </div>
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Needless to say he had a wonderful birthday party and has adjusted quite well since. He got his last 4 teeth we have been waiting on what seems to be forever and so now just for the molars. - Can I skip that process please? - </div>
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He has also transitioned into a semi big boy bed. His crib turned into a toddler bed so we took the railing off and he is now officially a big boy! He only attempted to escape once, on the second night, and I was in there so fast I think it scared him to ever try it again! (No I didn't yell to scare him!) </div>
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All in all I am blessed to have such an amazing little boy to share life with (two now!) and I can't wait to see what bithday's 3, 4, 5, 6.... you get the point, may bring for us! </div>
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I love you my lucky little fin! Keep On Keepin On! </div>
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Some Birthday Pictures for yall :)</div>
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The cake our wonderful friends got him. </div>
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His GIANT cupcake on his birthday. What a little ham :)</div>
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Thank you to our wonderful friends who helped make Jude's birthday special! </div>
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First picture as a 2 year old! </div>
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Have A Blessed Day! </div>
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Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-4506803141853314522015-09-28T20:58:00.002-07:002015-09-28T20:58:37.510-07:00Hello Two'sAs we slowly approach my son's second birthday (insert tears here), I am finding that he is becoming more of a little human with an attitude. Now, this attitude of his can be quite hilarious or follow the standard of a terrible two year old. There are several days where I can't help but laugh when he does something that he shouldn't be doing. He's just too cute and his facial expressions are priceless to say the least! I will say though, he is great with his baby brother.<br />
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Before his brother was born I was terrified that he was not going to do well. I baby sat a friends kid once who was younger and a little bit more needy and Jude did not like that. He was not a fan that mommy was holding another baby. Needless to say, I was dead wrong and he is so in love with his little brother! It's such a wonderful thing to see them interact. There have been a few times where Cooper is crying and Jude will go talk to him or share his blankey with him and Coop will stop in an instant and many times smile at his older brother.<br />
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Our lucky little fin has come out to be an extraordinary child so far. Now I know, I am biased because I am his mother. Whatever. I know that the statement above is true because not one person leaves him and is in a bad mood, if anything, they're in a better mood! I was so worried about how he would be growing up missing fingers and toes and here he is, showing me that there is nothing to worry about! I know when he becomes school aged there may be a few issues but for now, he is the highlight of the party and lights up anywhere he goes. He is my amazingly special baby and I hate that he is growing up! Two came much too fast for my liking but I can't wait to see what the future holds for my lucky little fin.<br />
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Have A Blessed Day</div>
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Here are a few pictures to brighten your day :)</div>
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Raising him right and making him love football!</div>
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Loves his baby brother <3</div>
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Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-38434924260973256042015-07-15T12:33:00.001-07:002018-07-19T12:46:53.986-07:00Graduating to Big Brother! So as most of you know, our little lucky fin has been promoted to big brother! And as most do not know, here is the story of Cooper!<br />
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On June 20, 2015 I woke up at 6:30 am with what felt like a cramp. It was nothing intense so I went back to bed thinking nothing of it, knowing he wasn't due for another 2 weeks.<br />
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Around 8:00 I woke up again with some more cramping and decided I should probably get up. My husband had already left to go to his parents house because we were supposed to be killing chickens that morning. My lucky fin and I were going to be making our way over as soon as I got him up and ready.<br />
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Well around 8:15 I sent a text to my husband letting him know that I thought that I was having contractions but wasn't sure. I told him I would keep him updated.<br />
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Jumping forward to 8:30 or so, I called my husband to let him know contractions were varying from 2:30 to 7:00 minutes apart but that I was still planning on coming to my in-laws. In my mind even if I was having contractions, I wasn't very far along and could labor more at home. Plus if I went to my in-laws, Jude could stay there whenever I needed to head to the hospital. After calling my husband, he decided that he was going to come home and get me to take me to the hospital.<br />
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In the mean time I was packing up my car, making breakfast and getting my oldest ready because my sister in law was coming to get him. By the time I was all done they were at my house and we were getting ready to go to the hospital.<br />
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In my mind, because the contractions were so sporadic and I was able to still function that I would be maybe 2 or 3 cm by the time I got to the hospital. We arrived and headed to labor and delivery! As we were on our way to the hospital I called my parents to tell them but let them know that they probably had some time to kill before he would be born.<br />
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Once we were checked in they checked my progress and I was... wait for it... 7 cm and progressing quickly!! Holy cow! I made the nurse tell me 3 times that I was 7 cm because I didn't believe her. The next few parts went by so quickly.<br />
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After they realized how far along I was they decided I need to get unhooked from the machines and walk to the labor room to keep my body progressing. As they were unhooking me my water broke and I remember the nurse saying, "oh no, we need to get you into that room quickly! This baby will be here any minute since he is your second." I was shocked!<br />
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Once we got into the room where I would deliver things went even faster. The next check I was 9 cm and still no iv's so they were trying to do that as I'm contracting.<br />
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The midwife and nurses were amazing! Without my husband rubbing my shoulders telling me I could do it and them in my face telling me this baby needs to be born, I can say that I successfully gave birth all naturally. But only because of them!<br />
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As they were trying to get the iv in I noticed that I needed to push! Needless to say they got that iv in me real quick and I started to push! 4 or so pushes and baby Cooper had entered the world at 10:54 am. Almost 2.5 hours after active labor started; I have been blessed with easy labors!<br />
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Now, because of Jude one of the first things we did was check to make sure all fingers and toes were there and they were :)<br />
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The rest of the day is a blurr but it was beautiful and perfect and I could have asked for anything better! He is now almost 4 weeks old and doing wonderfully! Jude is absolutely in love with him and the best big brother ever! I love my boys to death and now that Cooper is here I can't imagine life before him!<br />
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Here are some pictures for you all :)<br />
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Jude on the left and Cooper on the right!</div>
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Snuggling his little brother :)</div>
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After his first bath!</div>
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<br />Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-89036780997736031342015-05-02T19:41:00.000-07:002018-07-19T12:47:20.966-07:00Long Time ComingWow! Where do I even begin?! We have been so busy that I honestly forgot about sharing my little mans story and update on his fingers!<br />
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First up - My Lucky Fin!<br />
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He has healed so incredibly well from surgery! We went in 2 weeks after he went under to take the cast off and take a look at the progress. The normally say it's about 2-4 weeks and they made it seem that his was so extensive that it would have to be 4 weeks. Well they took the cast off and the doctor said that it's one of the best he's seen! My little man was able to keep his cast off! We were so excited because we were going on vacation up north and anyone who has had a child in a cast, in the cold, knows that it's not easy putting jackets on over a hard cast. Plus we were happy that he would be able to use his hand again and get used to the movement. He has adjusted quite well and when you ask to see his fingers he proudly shows you his hand so you can see the progress. Hope that's a good thing and that it doesn't come back to haunt us later on!<br />
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Aside from surgery he is growing much fast that I would like! He talks all the time, is now in swim lessons (has been since 3 months) but is without mommy or daddy now, he's such a big boy. Along with that he loves all sports, if it comes on the TV he stops and just says "ball, ball, ball" over and over while watching whatever sport it may be. Anything to do with being outside and he is all for it, and like most boys loves to make a mess :) He is a precious and sweet loving boy that I adore! I can't wait to see his personality grow more and more as he gets older.<br />
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Second up - The Rest!<br />
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So the past 8 weeks I have been in grad school, busting my butt trying to make it through 2 classes while being a mom and wife, oh and have some social life with our friends. Let me tell you, it was super hard but all worth it! I am taking a break due to the fact that my next 8 weeks would end right before my due date. Knowing I went into labor at 37 weeks last time, I wasn't going to chance finals and giving birth overlapping. Entirely too much! With that said, I am in my third trimester at 31 weeks as of yesterday. Gosh. It went by so much faster than last time! Probably because I am chasing around an 18 month old active little boy! It's been a rougher pregnancy than the last one so to say that I am ready for this baby to be out of me is an understatement! Plus I'm excited to meet our second little boy :)<br />
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Third up - I Opened My Own Shop!<br />
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I have officially opened up my own Etsy store! I started making baby clothes closet organizers and it seemed to really take off! More than I thought and so with so many questions I decided I would open my own online shop and direct everyone to it and go from there. It just became live today but I am super excited about it! Check it out :)<br />
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https://www.etsy.com/shop/ChelseaRaeOriginals?ref=hdr_shop_menu<br />
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Anyway, short little update this time! Hopefully it wont be this long in between the next blog! I appreciate all of you who take time to read our story :)<br />
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Here are a few update pictures of us!<br />
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Baby Boy #2!</div>
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30 Weeks along! </div>
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We spend quite a bit of time at the pool now days :) Too hot outside for preggo mama and he's a little fish! </div>
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He wanted to be held and I had an assignment due so this is how it got done! <3</div>
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<br />Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-6456486723370886382015-02-28T20:10:00.003-08:002018-07-19T12:47:38.367-07:00Surgery #3! So as most of you know, our lucky fin went in on Thursday for his third surgery. This one was for his right hand to separate the ring finger and pinky.<br />
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This was taken long time ago but you can see where his fingers are connected. You may or may not be able to tell that the pinky tip isn't very well connected. Well when we went in for our pre-op appointment the Dr. had me sign amputation papers for the tip of his finger because he didn't think he would be able to save it at all. Let me tell you, that was horrible. Signing papers that had the word 'amputation' all over it was awful! Knowing that it would be fine either way and my son wouldn't know the difference but gosh. Rough signature. </div>
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Anyway.</div>
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We got there bright and early on Thursday morning since surgery was scheduled for 8 am. This time around was much easier because he could walk. Last time he was only crawling and we couldn't very well put him on the hospital floor to crawl around. But now he could walk and he owned that hospital. He was walking up and down those hallways blowing kisses to anyone that walked by him. It was precious and all the nurses fell in love with him. Who wouldn't?! Plus this time he could have a little bit of juice when he woke up in the morning which seemed to hold him off on his hunger which was a HUGE relief! </div>
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One of the worst parts is right before surgery when he is just screaming and crying because he has been up for hours but hasn't been able to eat anything since the night before. As a mom you have this desire to feed them (as any parent should lol) but you can't so you just sit there and hold them while they scream and cry :( awful. </div>
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So we get up to the surgery holding area and they gave him some sleepy type drugs. Holy cow was that hilarious! He was acting like he was drunk and couldn't walk or sit up. Very funny, we were all giggling at him and dad took a video so we can show his future wife some day! </div>
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Now, while we were waiting they go over all surgery details again and they originally said it would be 1.5 hours but that morning they said only an hour. Awesome! But of course we said take your time and walked out into the waiting room to wait that horrible hour that we had ahead of us. </div>
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We killed time by eating and grad school and Aaron even played some video games and next thing we know the Dr. is walking out. I think to myself that this can't be good. It hasn't been an hour and something was wrong.</div>
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**back story**</div>
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For whatever reason, this surgery really had me freaked out. I kept thinking something was going to go wrong. I kept praying God would take those thought away and He never did so I thought it was preparation for when something went wrong. So seeing the Dr. come out early was terrifying. </div>
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So not only did the Dr. come out early but he walked right on by me down to where Aaron was playing video games. I thought that it was for sure something horrible. Next thing I hear is the Dr. saying "we're all done!" WHAT?! How could he be done so quickly? Aaron and the Dr. continue to talk so I didn't hear much but they were done and casting him! </div>
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Now remember how I had to sign amputation papers because they didn't think it was possible to keep the tip of his pinky finger? Well he still has it, the Dr. was able to save and properly attach it to his finger! This makes him has 3 fully functional fingers on his right hand now! His Dr, is quite fantastic if I do say so myself! </div>
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After he told us Jude was done we still had to wait to see him. We aren't allowed in until after he is casted and he wakes up from all the medicine. Which always seems to take so long!! But we finally got back there and he was doing great! Much better than last time where his breathing was horrible and it took 2 hours (abnormal) to get out of the recovery room. This time we were there for 20 min or so and moved back down to our hospital room. Once he had some food in him he seemed back to his normal self! Running around the hospital becoming everyones best friend. </div>
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We finally got the clear from the Dr. that we were able to go home in just a few short hours! So nice to be leaving when the sun was still out haha. We got home and he slept most of the time and has been doing great ever since. He has adapted quite well and it doesn't seem to really bother him! He went our with daddy the very next day to get some ice cream and a new toy; so he couldn't be hurting that bad right? ;) </div>
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Now we have 2 weeks to wait for the cast to hopefully come off! I will have more of an update for you then! In the mean time - enjoy some photos of his big day!</div>
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In the surgery waiting area. Couldn't resist! That little butt is too cute! </div>
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He was not happy before this so we decided to go for a wagon ride! </div>
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Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-48652899524413078302015-02-05T06:50:00.000-08:002015-02-05T06:50:31.038-08:00Worry Worry WorrySo I am almost half way through this pregnancy; 18 weeks and counting. We will be finding out the gender in 1 week...!!! Needless to say I am quite excited. But with excitement comes worry.<br />
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I don't remember worrying this much when I was pregnant with our lucky fin. Although that could be because I didn't know all the ridiculous amounts of things that could go wrong. Now please don't start with the speech of "don't be a worry wart" or "the odds of that happening are ___." I know I know. And I know worrying about it won't help and does me no good. Which is why I am blogging about the topic. Maybe if I can write it all out, read it and see how I sound, I will feel better. Who knows.<br />
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What I do know is that with baby #1 I was relaxed and hardly worried about a thing. Pretty much all the standard new mommy things but nothing out of the ordinary. With baby #2, not the same story. I worry all the time! From what I eat to what I breathe in on a day to day basis to how I sleep at night. Its rather ridiculous. I was telling my mother in law the other day how one of my biggest worries is giving birth in the car as we race to the hospital. We now live an hour away and if you read my lucky fins birth story you will know that it was only 5.5 hours from start of labor till he was born and they say your second one is shorter. So here I am, mind wandering and hearing stories of babies being born in the car and ya know what she said? (my mother in law) said, those are the easiest babies to birth cause they are just ready and come right on out! Now that was nice to hear (doesn't stop my worrying) but it takes it down a level for sure!<br />
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Another worry is what if this baby has ABS as well but it's worse. What if it's around the head or body of the baby? I'm not sure I'm ready to handle that.. Emotionally or physically. I know there are benefits to having 2 kids with ABS. My older child won't wonder why he is different or be jealous of our second baby. But am I ready for that? And before you tell me the odds I'd just like to say that from the research I have done, my odds are the EXACT SAME. Meaning, it was a crazy thought during my first pregnancy that my child would be born with ABS. I didn't even know what that was! But when people say "oh but the odds of your second child is just out of the world," mmm no it's not. They're the same odds and if it happened once, who's to say it wont happen again?? Right.<br />
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Gosh. I could go on and on about all my crazy worries. But all that to say; baby is doing great. I am moving to a high risk doctor to make sure everything is alright concerning the ABS but other than that we are smooth sailing which is nice.<br />
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It's definitely much harder being pregnant the second time with an older child. My little lucky fin keeps me running around and on my toes thats for sure! He is a bundle of energy but always smiling and that's one thing I love about him. He can light up a room even when he is driving me crazy! I can't wait to see how he does with his baby brother or sister.<br />
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18 weeks along :) </div>
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Have a Blessed Day! </div>
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<br />Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-2675495127264054382015-01-15T09:41:00.002-08:002018-07-19T12:48:02.267-07:00Big Update!Wow it has been much too long since my last post! But to be fair we have all been sick with everything from the common cold to the flu to pneumonia. So needless to say I have been busy either taking care of my son or husband or being taken care of by my wonderful hubby. Then on top of all of that we had the craziness of Christmas and New Years which I will say went very well for our family. Nice and relaxing :)<br />
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Now on to updates to fill you all in!<br />
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1. We found out over the holidays that our lucky fin will become a BIG BROTHER! That's right, we are expecting baby number 2 due in July. We are overwhelmed with joy and can't wait to see how big brother reacts to his little sibling. He does so well with other kids that I'm sure he won't have any problems :) (fingers crossed at least!)<br />
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2. Surgery update: (see <a href="http://myluckyfin.blogspot.com/2014/10/finger-surgery.html" target="_blank">Finger Surgery</a> for a more detailed summary)<br />
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I know it have been a few months since he got his cast off and we have been able to see progress. I was shocked at what an amazing job the doctor did. I don't know why seeing as he does this surgery all the time but still. As a mom I think you prepare for the worst so that if it's not perfect you're ok with it and not disappointed. Needless to say my mind was blown. The surgeon did a fantastic job and Jude seemed to love his new fingers!<br />
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3. Cast removal day:<br />
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Everyone who ever had a child in a cast warned us that this was going to be traumatic. That he wouldn't handle it well and I would cry and dad would have to be the tough one to hold the little man. Well that was not quite the case. My son. My brave and courageous son didn't even shed a tear! (nor did mom for those who are wondering ;)) Yes, the machine that cuts the cast off freaked him out a little because it was so loud but he didn't even cry and dad didn't have to hold on too tightly so he wouldn't get away. I was very proud of my boy :)<br />
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After they took the cast off and removed the gauze they washed and cleaned everything up so we could see what it looked like. At this point Jude was in awe of his new fingers. - Keep in mind he is only 1 at this point. - He kept looking at them, moving and wiggling them (so adorable!) and touching them to see what was going on. It was priceless! That's what brought tears to my eyes.<br />
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4. Post cast removal:<br />
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This was rough. Again, people told me all their advice and I appreciated it because I knew what to expect. His arm was weak and he was not happy about it at all.<br />
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Side note: Jude took his first steps at 11 months but continued to crawl regardless. </div>
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So because his arm was so weak and he was used to crawling with this big ole arm cast on he was getting frustrated. We were also told not to let him use it too much seeing as it would get very sore and painful for him if we did. This was hard and every time he would try to crawl, fall and then just cry on the floor it broke my heart. As a mom, if you are one, I'm sure you can imagine this. I would run over, scoop him up and tell him it was going to be alright. </div>
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Well for those of you that don't know my son is very independent and rarely likes to cuddle or hug and wants to be on his own. So each time I would pick him up and calm him down he would want right back down and we would do it all over again. This process didn't last long because he was determined to learn to walk all the time. This made me very nervous because when we would fall, he would have to catch himself with his arms, one which was still very weak. But I think it's safe to say that because of his weak arm, he did everything in his power not to fall and rarely did! It was rather impressive. </div>
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5. Few months later:</div>
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We are now at 3 months after surgery and no more cast and he is doing great! Back to using both hands for everything and has no issues what so ever. We are very happy with how the doctors separated his fingers and now are not as worried for the next surgery! </div>
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6. What's next?:</div>
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As of right now his right hand is scheduled for surgery in February but that one will be less extensive and less time in the operating room. For his left hand (the one that was just operated on); he may need more surgeries later on as he grows but for now, we are done with that hand! Yay! </div>
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I have a few pictures for everyone. There are surgery before and after pictures as well as just some other funs ones over the last few months :)</div>
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3 months after surgery </div>
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He clearly did not like Santa! </div>
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I just love this one <3 </div>
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His new favorite toy that he got for Christmas!</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwsxEh2SFqShC6uqdtFwNqwOhQzsUTKWdbuHWbRalTXodBftY07jRxviwFeNCMui-q5DFB9zNtzkt6eu1dOrA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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Getting to see his new fingers for the first time! </div>
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Have a Blessed Day!</div>
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<!--EndFragment-->Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-40991456003473504332014-10-26T19:38:00.000-07:002018-07-19T12:48:33.628-07:00Finger SurgeryOk so surgery details and updates!<br />
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My little lucky fin had his first hand surgery on Thursday (10/23/14) on his left hand.<br />
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This is what it looked like going into surgery. This way you can visualize it as I try to explain all that they worked on. </div>
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As you can see the pointer finger and the pinkie finger both still had bands around the tops. People often question what I mean when I say he still had bands, so here it is. The bands are still technically active due to the fact that as he grows, the bands to not and would eventually amputate the tips of his fingers. At least this is my understanding. So because of this, the bands needed to be cut and released so this would not happen. The doctor went in and did what is called a "Z-stitch" which means exactly what it sounds like, they stitch up his finger in the pattern of a Z. </div>
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Next. The middle finger and ring finger were fused together as you can see above. The doctor split the two and did a Z-stitch on the middle finger as well and tried to make it "less bulbly" as the doc put it as well as removing the little bundle of skin. </div>
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We went in bright and early at 6 am that morning and waiting until 8:50 for him to be taken back for surgery. He was starving and exhausted to say the least but he made it through. The nurse was awesome and came out a few times to give us updates on how he was doing. Each time was a positive report! </div>
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We waited what seemed to be forever and around 10:40 the doctor came out and told us the good news, that he was done and was able to accomplish everything he had wanted! We could see our little man in just a little bit but had to wait for them to cast his hand. </div>
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When we got back there he was not happy :( It's so hard seeing your baby. Your one year old baby hooked up to all sorts of machines, screaming because he's hungry but his throat had a breathing tube down it during surgery so it's all scratchy and dry. It's rough to see. And then when you get to hold him, to finally hold that precious child and he calms down while he eats but still isn't happy... That sucks. They ended up having to give him some more Valium because he wouldn't calm down. Needless to say he slept after that while we tried to get his stats stabilized. That took about 2 hours before we could leave the recovery room and go back down to our room that we were in that morning. Little man seemed to just sleep all day but when he was awake he was happy! It was precious :) Our good friend Joe decided to stop by with some coffee which was great! We spent the rest of the afternoon debating whether or not to stay over night to monitor his stats or not (it was his breathing.) After a lot of deliberation we decided it was safe to go home! We ended up leaving around 4:45 to finally go home! Jude did relatively well his first night with a cast, woke up a few times but went back to sleep. And ever since surgery he has been so cuddly and just wants to be held! So cute and this mommy loves it! </div>
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Since being home we have had some big adjustments. Things people don't warn you about and you don't think about. You think of all the normal things such as pain levels, not being able to use that hand, hitting things with his cast, etc. But what you don't think about is how will he crawl on the tile? Will he hold a bottle? How about holding his food pouches without them falling? Also, the pain meds mess with my baby! I hate giving it to him but how can I not when he just had surgery and is in pain. I'm just gonna say it: having a baby in a cast, sucks. So there it is, although I am SO grateful that he pulled through and he is a strong little boy and will do just fine, as a mom I hate seeing it. I hate knowing that he is only cuddling because he is in pain and doesn't feel well. Things that I can't necessarily control. </div>
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Anyway, I'm done and now onto some pictures from the big day! </div>
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This picture was taken after the extra dose of Valium to help him calm down in the recovery room.</div>
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Wagon ride to keep the little man entertained while we wait to go home!</div>
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Cuddling with mommy :)</div>
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And his cool new camo cast and eating a popsicle to help his throat! </div>
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He will have his cast until November 13 at least and then we will figure out the next surgery for his right hand. </div>
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Have A Blessed Day! </div>
Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-82188848939630481592014-10-26T18:34:00.002-07:002018-07-19T12:48:55.206-07:00So much going on! I hate not having a computer charger! Can't write enough and then I feel like all my posts are so long! So I will do a quick update here and then have another post for surgery :)<br />
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As most of you know, Jude turned 1 on the 19th! I was proud of myself and kept it together quite nicely. We had a sports themed birthday party for him and all friends and family were there to celebrate. It was quite nice :) Below are some pictures of his big day! We got a jersey made for him to wear on his birthday and it turned out really well!<br />
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We had his birthday at our clubhouse and they put this on the welcome sign! Loved driving up to see this :)</div>
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A very uneventful cake smash lol. He seemed to have no interest in the cupcake at all! Oh well, I'll be happy if he isn't a fan of sugary things! </div>
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Showing off his new boots that he got! </div>
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His special jersey :)</div>
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We had a blast at his birthday and are so grateful for everyone that was able to come and celebrate with us! Thank you and we can't wait for more birthdays to come! </div>
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<br />Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-28372457418534684332014-10-12T16:52:00.002-07:002014-10-12T16:52:30.702-07:00Almost ONE, here we come! Holy cow time does fly by! I can't believe my little man will be one in a week! ONE! How is this possible? It seems like just last week we were off and running to the hospital because I was in labor. It seems like just yesterday I was holding him for the first time, hearing him cry and needing to be loved and cuddled. Now my little man is off and running! He started walking a few weeks ago and doesn't ever seem to have time to stop moving. As I read back over that it seems about though he is walking consistently but he's not, just a fast crawler and a soon to be runner ;) <div>
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He is progressing like every child around his age too. He can pick things up with no problems, he can walk like I said and nothing stops him. I'm so proud to see him accomplish so much at such a young age! I knew to never put limits on him, simply saying that he wouldn't be able to do something but in the back of my mind I did think that it would take some extra time. I honestly thought that he would be a late walker considering he is missing all toes on one of his feet. He proved me wrong to say the least! I also thought that grabbing toys or something small like a Cheerio would take some extra time as well, yet he has been doing that for months now! I can't wait to see what else he proves me wrong with ;)</div>
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Surgery update:</div>
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I think I had said in the past that he would hopefully have his hand surgeries when he turned one and we are still hoping for that! We had an appointment at Shriners for the surgeon to take a look and see when it would be possible to start the surgeries and they said they are hoping to get us in on October 23! I had been praying it would be after his first birthday so he wouldn't have a cast and I think that's what will happen! We are still waiting to get the confirmation call but I think that will come this week as well as a pre-op appointment and then surgery will be a week from Thursday! </div>
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Now... I'm going to try and explain what they will do to his hands so hopefully you can follow along :)</div>
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They will start with his left hand. See the picture below so you can understand easier what they will do. </div>
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First, there are bands around his pointer and pinkie finger. They will go in and release the bands, this way when he grows, they bands wont grow. Meaning. As he grows and gets older, if the bands are not released they could eventually amputate his finger from the band up. So they will go in and cut the band and create a "Z" stitch which basically looks like Charlie Browns sweater or, a Z :) Next they will go and separate the ring finger and middle finger. There is more than enough skin for them to accomplish this with no problem. After that they will release the band that is wrapped around his middle finger and try to make it less of a bulb. There's a term for it that I can't remember, but his middle finger will always have the bulb as it is part of ABS. But, they will try and make it less so it is easier for him to function. That will all happen within on surgery and then he will be in a full cast called a club cast. This means that the cast will completely cover his hand and fingers and go all the way up to his shoulder. He will be in the cast for roughly 4 weeks while everything heals up. </div>
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Now to me, I always thought this hand would only need one surgery and if anything his left hand would need more than one but I was wrong. Goes to show how much I actually know! Ha. So his right hand will need to separate surgeries unfortunately. The reason being is that they can only operate on one side of the finger each time so if the hand needs fixing on both sides of the finger it must be separate surgeries. So this one they will separate the pinkie and ring finger, hoping to keep the pinkie tip but there are no guarantees that they can do that depending on how the tip gets the blood flow. He will then be in the same type of cast, they club cast for roughly 4 weeks as well and then go back in, once it is 100% healed for the next step which is just making a cut between his ring finger and middle finger. It is more webbed than we thought and so they will make it less webbed so he can use his fingers better. He will be in the same cast for the same amount of time. </div>
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To say we have a long road ahead is an understatement but we are ready. Having his first surgery on his foot back in the summer really helped prepare me for what is to come. These surgeries will be around 2-2.5 hours so it is much longer than his foot but I think we are ready. Personally, I am ready because I want to see how he grows and functions when his fingers are separated and he can use them better. I'm nervous and excited all at the same time. I know he will be amazing and pull through like a champ :) </div>
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Now for some cute pictures over the past few weeks :) </div>
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We took a shopping trip with some friends down to Ikea. Well we had to get quite a few big items and we had 2 kids, 1 stroller and this flat cart. Jude is a little older and so we put him on the cart like this and wheeled him around Ikea. He loved it! </div>
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We went on a bike ride and I happened to grab his rain coat incase it started to rain... Needless to say it did and we got wet. At least I got a cute picture out of it! </div>
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This is one of my favorite pictures. This is our friend Justin sitting with Jude showing him how to throw a basketball and roll a soccer ball. It was captured perfectly! </div>
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Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-8562621038472638752014-09-04T20:12:00.002-07:002014-09-04T20:35:47.921-07:00One of those daysToday (and the last few days) have been one of those days. You know, the ones that make you mad and jealous and sad all at the same time. I see so many baby pictures and hear stories of other babies and I'm mad my little one is missing fingers and toes. I realize these new parents don't know any better, I'm sure I would do the same but man... It kills me seeing all their pictures of "cute baby toes" or "look at those perfect little baby feet" or the picture where all fingers are wrapped around mom or dads finger. We will never get that with Jude.<br />
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*** Disclosure *** </div>
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I love my little man with every fiber of my body and he is perfect and will accomplish anything he sets his mind to!</div>
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With that said. As a mom of a child who is missing fingers and toes you can only imagine how hard it is to see brand new, precious newborns, with all ten fingers and ten toes. I sometimes can't help but to be mad and ask why. Why us? Why Jude?<br />
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Sometimes I just get so frustrated that I want to punch a hole in the wall or scream. He is growing up so fast and accomplishing so much already but I realized, I wont have to hear him crying and running to me because he slammed fingers in the door. I wont be able to comfort him when he is crying because he can't wear flip flops. We wont have those moments. I realize to most parents those are dreaded moments that they try to keep their kids from but me, I'm going to miss those things. I know it may sound crazy to all of you but until you go through it, until you have a child who is missing fingers and toes (or more) I'm sorry but you wont understand.<br />
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I also wonder what he will think if we get pregnant again and our second baby is born with all ten fingers and ten toes. Will Jude be jealous or mad that he doesn't have them? Will the sibling ever tease Jude for his lucky fins? I hope that we raise all of our kids to never tease anyone like that but you know how siblings can be towards each other! <br />
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It makes me sad to think about the potential of how kids will treat him when he gets to school. I often wonder how kids will react to him and his precious fingers and toes. I dread the days that he comes home from school, holding back tears because the kids in his class were mean to him. I sometimes think about how I will handle it when he does go to school... Will I talk to the teachers and principle extensively about ABS and how to handle it? Will I maybe talk to his whole class about how he is a little different but that it doesn't mean he can't do all that the other kids can do?<br />
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I know that he is only 10 months old and we have a long way to go but as a mommy, you think about your children and what the future holds for your kids quite often.<br />
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Anyway, on the bright side Jude now blows kisses and cut his first tooth!! (FINALLY!) He is taking it like a champ and is adorable with his first little snaggle tooth :) He is also trying to stand on his own now which makes me scared cause that could mean walking soon and this mommy isn't ready for that! He is already on the go so much that I'm not sure I'm ready for him to be walking yet! He crawls super fast and gets into lots of trouble at home ;) I love him so much and know he will do great things!<br />
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Here are a few pictures taken by a good friend of mine! She and her husband are photographers/videographers. We took the boys out one day and she got some great shots! Check out more of their work here!<br />
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<a href="http://www.highlightstudios.net/" target="_blank">http://www.highlightstudios.net/ </a></div>
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Jude and his buddy Jax</div>
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Never leaves without that bunny!</div>
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<br />Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-35851191705334966152014-08-27T21:03:00.002-07:002014-08-27T21:03:49.173-07:00Quick UpdateJude gives high fives! Or are they a high 2 1/2's? Ha either way, he is high five-ing (most of the time) waves hello and goodbye and claps!<br />
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He just turned 10 months and I feel like as soon as that day came, he has changed more drastically than in the last 9 months combined. He crawls every where and FAST! I chase him all around the house as he crawls and pulls up on anything and everything. There are times where I go in the kitchen for a few seconds (in eye shot of the living room) and next thing I know he is down by my feet crawling around... HOW DO THEY DO THAT?? He is a fast little sucker.</div>
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Not only that but his personality is growing so much and you can see how he is blossoming. It's super precious :) </div>
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I wish I had more time to write but life is crazy right now so I must move on! Thanks for stopping by though!</div>
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Have a Blessed Day :) </div>
Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-57350536183010214342014-08-13T20:32:00.002-07:002018-07-19T12:49:34.640-07:00Stay Positive!This post is dedicated to all the positive things about ABS. I know as a mommy who has a son affected by this it can be hard to stay positive. Well I am in a bible study now all about being a positive mom and I thought it would be good to list all the good things about ABS.<br />
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Here goes!</div>
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- Only a few fingernails to trim</div>
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- Only a few toenails to trim</div>
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- Can't flick anyone off ( ;) )</div>
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- No need to buy flip flops</div>
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- Get to know so many other families with children with ABS</div>
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- Be taught awesome lessons from my son</div>
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- Anything I think he can't do and does, is incredible</div>
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- He can beat all odds</div>
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- He will be a hard worker</div>
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- He will be determined</div>
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- Some shoes and socks fit for a longer time</div>
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I know that there are a million other things and I will add to it as I think of them but for now, this is my little list. Growing daily. But I have this list written down so that I (and any others) can look at this and know there are some good things about ABS! I know many of us parents can dwell on all the negative (trust me, that's all I could think about while I made this list) but you have to stop thinking about the "bad" and start realizing that all of those things, your children will prove you wrong in and do anything they set their minds to. Feel free to comment with any other positive ideas as well! </div>
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Have A Blessed Day!</div>
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Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-43776015031680103592014-08-01T19:54:00.000-07:002014-08-02T10:18:51.734-07:00Shoes in HollandSince it's summer everyone is wearing flip flops or going barefoot. Well... when you have a son who is missing toes on one foot you start to realize how important or not important shoes are. If you ask my husband he will tell you that I absolutely love baby shoes! When I was pregnant that's all I wanted to buy, shoes. I guess its the girl in me ;) Anyway, its hard seeing all these cute little babies and toddlers in flip flops knowing that my son will never be able to wear normal flip flops. But! The fun and positive part of it all is that I then get to go look for other types of sandals that his adorable little feet will fit in and lets me honest, he looks cute in anything!<br />
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An update on my little guppy is that he is now crawling everywhere and pulling up on anything and everything! I am chasing him around all day everyday and when it comes to naps! Forget it! Unless he falls asleep while he is being fed and rocked there is no way that he will lay down and nap. He gets up and plays all the time, nap time is a joke now... Hoping that's just a phase!<br />
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I have a fun story for you guys since it seems to have been a while since the last post. All about being positive!</div>
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So since Jude is up and crawling everywhere we put him on the floor while we get ready so he can crawl and play rather than be strapped into a toy. Well the other day we were in his room and he has a floor fan and when we change him it gets moved off the changing table onto the floor. If you don't remember to put it back up, little man will get into it for sure! So we caught him crawling towards the fan and told him no, that he doesn't have any fingers to spare if they got caught in the fan! He also did this with the door while he was playing with it the other night. Now he's never gotten hurt and the positive (I always try to see the positive, even when my natural instinct is to be negative) is that if a door slams in his fingers, it probably wont matter because they are shorter! (and cuter ;) ) He is going to be lucky whenever he has a sibling come along who tries to close his fingers in the door, he can giggle and laugh at them because it wont happen as often if at all :)<br />
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Something else that has been on my mind is a story that I read in my bible study this past week. It was about a mom who had a child with a disability and was asked to describe what it was like to raise a child like that. Now, I don't know about any of you but I have never been asked that, maybe it happens when they are older but it has never happened so far. Anyway, she goes on to say that it is like a vacation. You have this plan that you are going to Italy, a fun, fast paced environment, you've had friends go there and it's all the craze, so you decide to go. You get on the plan and endure the long flight there only to find out you're in Holland! Yes. Holland, not Italy like you planned. You now have to vacation in an unexpected, unplanned place but you make the best of it and enjoy your time there.<br />
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Now, I read this and cried because it was the perfect explanation on what it is like! I went through my pregnancy with a few friends and their children were all born with fingers and toes and no problems and yet here I was in Holland with a newborn missing fingers and toes and I was devastated. I now can't even imagine my life in "Italy" with everyone. It's like a breath of fresh air and I am so grateful for my son and his lucky little fins. They are truly amazing and it's even more amazing to see him use his hands and feet for anything and everything. Not only that but he is keeping up with all the other kids and is having no issues what-so-ever. I am beyond blessed to have him as my child and consider it great joy to go through life with him. He has taught me so much already that I can't even think about what the future brings!<br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Here is a link to the story if anyone wants to read it :)</span></div>
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<a class="" data-reactid=".1e.1:3:1:$comment10152282383783807_10152283234748807:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.$range0:0" dir="ltr" href="http://www.our-kids.org/archives/Holland.html" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; line-height: 15.359999656677246px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">http://www.our-kids.org/archives/Holland.html</span></a></div>
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Have a Blessed Day! </div>
Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098031278796927863.post-72926588819609434072014-07-17T21:12:00.001-07:002018-07-19T12:49:54.633-07:009 MonthsWow I didn't realize how long it had been since the last post! Guess I've been a little bit busier than I thought :) Let see... We have fully moved into the new place, everything is hung up and decorated and put away! Not even a month later and we are all set and ready to play! Little man has been crawling like a pro lately and keeping me very busy. He started army crawling before his surgery but perfected the practice soon after and has only gotten faster. He now tries to really crawl but only gets one or two before realizing sliding on his belly is faster. Funny thing though, little man hates our tile floors. What's funny though?! He like other peoples tile floors! I don't understand! He will crawl on pretty much any other tile and as soon as he is home and gets off the blanket or toy mat, he is not a happy camper; little booger is picky ha.<br />
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He has also been eating like a big boy and eating us out of house and home already. Dude, you are 9 months, slow your roll or we are gonna be livin on the streets! ;) just kidding but he really is chowing down on quite a bit of food lately. I'm assuming it's his lovely growth spurt of 9 months since Saturday he will be 9 months old!! I can't believe that my baby. My one and only little boy, will be 9 months old. It seems like just last week I was pregnant and craving tacos all the time. It seems like yesterday I was rushing to the hospital in labor waiting to meet him! Like it was a few hours ago holding him for the very first time. Loving on him and realizing that I had just become a mommy, but no, that was 9 months ago! Now we are planning first birthdays and more surgeries. Oh how times flies! In just 3 short months we will watch our silly boy smash into his very first birthday cake and smear it all over. I am quite excited for that moment, to capture it forever with a picture, to frame it and show his girlfriends down the road. Man... 9 months.<br />
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Here are a few pictures we have captured over the last few weeks :) Enjoy!<br />
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Happy 8 months little man! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcoSe7mbWtgUjDsdy8Sh6JkMcl0saLEDza8_QYzlqp69um8qcwg0Q4gVPulMQjiEC_xkzn5Zxg5dXhfLwfEULq1-iAzm6U-jbNujdwrpiIDb_E9zPFW5lEn3ianhLQfEkD7q19G8JvWNQ/s1600/collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcoSe7mbWtgUjDsdy8Sh6JkMcl0saLEDza8_QYzlqp69um8qcwg0Q4gVPulMQjiEC_xkzn5Zxg5dXhfLwfEULq1-iAzm6U-jbNujdwrpiIDb_E9zPFW5lEn3ianhLQfEkD7q19G8JvWNQ/s1600/collage.jpg" /></a></div>
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His aunt captured these lovely faces of his! Never a dull moment :) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaso6ZAs8oK7sYzVFV0VfI79RawSSXezfWVrhHR83pCBGwYe1aw06Lb_VbzEBRsYSF0XCsXpIqHigK4bvIKvrjsFeO7gNkr1b_QnDioxbe6Cn9Z6E8wl8hASDZVEb0Osq2jhdRRqEZBeQ/s1600/dinner.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaso6ZAs8oK7sYzVFV0VfI79RawSSXezfWVrhHR83pCBGwYe1aw06Lb_VbzEBRsYSF0XCsXpIqHigK4bvIKvrjsFeO7gNkr1b_QnDioxbe6Cn9Z6E8wl8hASDZVEb0Osq2jhdRRqEZBeQ/s1600/dinner.JPG" /></a></div>
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This was dinner time! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVxHaEe8IZ1zhWt7GepuNdPa1umiMh33d6suHYQmSgSzTsOFGoXk1rKxmHelI-HSFmWaY0g5TIbWjXqeHXhGYPxxu6bpLkepe3BJLTatzKsGCB5TnXbld9DzN5ijTWKotloUEtRVKUUXQ/s1600/moving.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVxHaEe8IZ1zhWt7GepuNdPa1umiMh33d6suHYQmSgSzTsOFGoXk1rKxmHelI-HSFmWaY0g5TIbWjXqeHXhGYPxxu6bpLkepe3BJLTatzKsGCB5TnXbld9DzN5ijTWKotloUEtRVKUUXQ/s1600/moving.JPG" /></a></div>
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He was helping mommy unpack after moving</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgruHQwnkXbeEx1RU9v2GiC3g-h8nriILq2qNRURmGL1yBpDQmuZ-LMvO5ekDwa1qKpiWe9bYM4iWPz2Lil29Ch8b_17QfLXH2dKmQ3-VEITNR9HMfK8ErJ9mrRT8zyg2Mk5CHFP9lFHTI/s1600/pool.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgruHQwnkXbeEx1RU9v2GiC3g-h8nriILq2qNRURmGL1yBpDQmuZ-LMvO5ekDwa1qKpiWe9bYM4iWPz2Lil29Ch8b_17QfLXH2dKmQ3-VEITNR9HMfK8ErJ9mrRT8zyg2Mk5CHFP9lFHTI/s1600/pool.JPG" /></a></div>
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First pool day at the new house! </div>
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Have a Blessed Day!</div>
<br />Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13620659343084581104noreply@blogger.com0