Summary Week 4 (slight edit)
Summary Week 4 (slight edit)
Saturday, July 24, 2021
1:55 PM
Not so Happy :(
Just me. I know that I’m not supposed to write during the middle of the day, but I’m feeling a little pressure and it is still lunch, so I figured it might be ok.
This morning I talked to Dr. M. The first 40 minutes or so we were going through depression with one of the parts. He says that we’re taking a lot of anger inside from one thing or another and it is affecting our mood. We feel better after talking about some of the concerns. And then, during the last part of the hour, we remembered to ask about the MRI Report that was supposed to be there today.
Dr. M. found the report. This is the summary impression that the physician left:
- Central disc herniated causing moderate spinal stenosis and right posterolateral disc protrusion causing exiting nerve root impingement at the L4/L5 level.
- Mild left paracentral disc protrusion at L5/S1 without any evidence for associated mass effect or neural foraminal narrowing.
- DJD at multiple levels along the lumbar spine.
We knew about the DJD along the lumbar spine … that’s degenerative joint disease, or our osteoarthritis. As to points 2 and 3, mild seems better than moderate, and I think both sound better then if they had said severe. I think pretty much it means I have a herniated disk causing a narrowing in my spinal something and a disk that is sticking it to a nerve that is leaving the spine area. Dr. M. says sciatica is just the label for that nerve is getting pinched. Umm, like ok. Now what?
But, Dr. M. decided to go silent on the issue. Just kept saying I don’t know this isn’t my area of expertise. Likely story! Hmpf!
So, after a bit figured it was time and we had to go back to work. Dr. M. recommended that we call the regular doctor and ask her questions. So, we did. Left a message. Then, of course, being me, I got on the Internet and started figuring stuff out. But, because of memory problems I am not going to be able to convey much knowledge. I was picking it up though.
Fortunately, the Doctor called back earlier than later. She said she had the lab and MRI findings in front of her. She seemed like she was in a rush. I was like trying to slow her down so I could understand, but she was talking pretty fast. She didn’t like the diabetes lab tests that showed me as a 9.4 where 6.0 is supposed to top of the scale. She said that could wait until my next appointment in a couple weeks. She also said I have one of those female problems that need antibiotics. Was fine. But, then as she was rambling off all the other stuff she said, and I am going to schedule you for an appointment with Dr. Slavin the Neurosurgeon. It was then like WHAT!?? What did you say?? She was obviously not happy with slowing down. It seems there is some issues that are affecting other issues. Basically, I think she’s not sure of something I’m having trouble labeling. But, she said it could be that other situation. Then she was saying something like … you can make the time, right?! I want you to go in as soon as possible. ACK!!!! She got the appointment lady on the phone and because she wanted to work with this one specific doctor a compromise was made. We’ll go in a week, next Monday at 4:30 pm.
So, ok … here we are again … we’re pretty sure that now we are on a fast track to our demise.
I read about this earlier when we were looking things up. I think basically, it comes down to the fact we are having trouble … ok, I’m just saying it … CONTINENCE!!! DAMN there goes some of Dr. M’s missing anger! The info from the computer said that if this happens WITH the herniated disk, narrowing whatever … then it is much more important to be seen right away and surgery is likely. I think because whatever is not quite right its affecting a major body process and they really like that not to happen. Dr. Albright said she was going to get a hold of this other doctor in the meantime to see if the appointment couldn’t get moved up.
So, now I am like an excitably depressed basket case. L Ok, come on V. Give it your best … no reason to worry about surgery, until if you have to go through it? Right? No big deal. We don't even know yet. Everything’s just the same as before. Shoot, at least let me say this is an interesting development??? AND, I’M A LITTLE BITTY SCARED! AND, while we're skirmishing ... please, please not the test where they shoot you in the back, I mean spine! That be just damn mean!
posted by Ann Marie @ _1/23/2006 01:17:00 PM__Comments: 9_
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_V__ said..._
Aww, Ayn. I`m so sorry to hear of the MRI results, especially No. 1.
.....The info from the computer said that if this happens WITH the herniated disk, narrowing whatever … then it is much more important to be seen right away and surgery is likely.......
This is way past my area of expertise. Im glad you already have the appointment with the neurosurgeon; lets see what Dr. Slavin has to say.
I can imagine how scared you are. I know I would be! We`ll all have to double our prayers going your way.
I wish there was more I could do for you from this distance.
Monday, January 23, 2006 2:08:00 PM
Anonymous said...
Ann i know you are scared but hang on till they can get you in and see what the doc says. Do you have anyone that can go with you to the docs appt? Damn i wish i lived closer cause i would go with you! Please know you are in my prayers:)And please email or IM me ok i am here for you!
Deb
Monday, January 23, 2006 3:41:00 PM
Comment deleted
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Tuesday, January 24, 2006 12:06:00 AM
_Tamara__ said..._
Ohhh my Ayn, you must be scared to death! Sweetie I am so sorry to hear that the results are not good for your MRI and the Diabetes. And as for the surgery, get it as soon as you can.
Ayn, are you taking Calcium and vitamin C every day? If you aren't, please start as this will help keep your bones and connective tissues stronger. Also, you need to be on a good multi vitamin with pleanty of minerals prior to surgery. They will help your body heal faster from the surgery.
I'm also sorry that a part of you is depressed, however considering your health I can certainly understand why. Are you in a lot of pain? Is there anything I can do to help you?
I'm sending you all my love and huge bear hugs with a smile and prayers.
Keep your chin up and know that we are here.
Love and hugs,
T
Tuesday, January 24, 2006 8:07:00 AM
_Bon & Mal Mott__ said..._
Ayn, if you ever want to just talk this out, let us know. Mal went through major surgery himself, so he can understand how worried you must be about this. But he's still alive, if not quite kicking, so there's not as much to worry about as you might think. Any time you want our support, let us know.
Love,
Bon & Mal
Tuesday, January 24, 2006 9:41:00 AM
_Tammy Brierly__ said..._
I will keep you in my prayer's. Keep positive!
{{HUGS}}
Tuesday, January 24, 2006 2:39:00 PM
_Gabreael__ said..._
:.....(
You'll be in my thoughts and prayers.
Take Care,
Gabreael
http://gabreaelsbodymindandspirit.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, January 24, 2006 6:50:00 PM
_TJ__ said..._
It seems you have the right appointments with the right people. I was sad to see all this in one back! You have to be careful..very careful. Keep your attitude good, it gives strength more then you know. {{{ HUGS }}}
Tuesday, January 24, 2006 11:20:00 PM
_Bedazzzled1__ said..._
That is a lot of information for you to absorb. Your worry is understandable. Discussing your fear is good, far better than internalizing it.
Please keep us posted, and I am sure all of us will be saying prayers for you.
::hug::
Thursday, January 26, 2006 12:10:00 AM
This Intermission brought to you by Ame, Mom, and Gramma Ann
posted by Ann Marie @ _1/24/2006 03:31:00 AM__Comments: 10_
_"This Intermission brought to you by Ame, Mom, and Gramma Ann"_
10 Comments - _Show Original Post__Collapse comments_
1 – 10 of 10
_V__ said..._
Aww, she`s so pretty, Gramma Ann.
I saw her website! Yeaaaa!!!!
V
Tuesday, January 24, 2006 3:47:00 AM
_Tamara__ said..._
Ohhhhh Ayn, your grand daughter is beautiful! Those eyes are amazing! Thank you for sharing the photographs with us.
Love,
T
Tuesday, January 24, 2006 7:55:00 AM
_Bon & Mal Mott__ said..._
Wonderful pictures, Ayn. She's a cutie-pie.
Love,
Bon & Mal
Tuesday, January 24, 2006 9:42:00 AM
_Christina K Brown__ said..._
oh....she looks just like one of my campers from Royal Family Kids Camp last year.
Tuesday, January 24, 2006 1:52:00 PM
_Tammy Brierly__ said..._
Wow, she's beautiful and those eyes!
Awww, grandma
XXOO
Tuesday, January 24, 2006 2:33:00 PM
_jennifer__ said..._
Awwww. She is waaaaaay too cute. You're not proud, are you? :D
Tuesday, January 24, 2006 5:44:00 PM
_Gabreael__ said..._
What a cutie pie!
Gabreael
http://gabreaelsbodymindandspirit.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, January 24, 2006 6:49:00 PM
Anonymous said...
What a cutie:) How are you doing?
Deb
Tuesday, January 24, 2006 7:44:00 PM
_TJ__ said..._
Absolutely adorable!!!!!
Tuesday, January 24, 2006 11:16:00 PM
_Bedazzzled1__ said..._
Even though her positively incredible eyes cannot be seen in it, picture #6 is my favorite. I am unsure why...
Anyway, she is a gorgeous child, and I am happy you have such a precious one to love.
Thursday, January 26, 2006 12:13:00 AM
Stuff to Do ...
Good morning … I want to say first thank you for all the nice compliments. We think our granddaughter is kinda cute too. Believe me I didn’t have to do anything for her to get that way. She’s pretty wonderful. Her mother and father are doing a good job. And, soon there will be another. Their doctor said due date is within a week or two. My daughter-in-law says it couldn’t be too soon. She says she’s REALLY pregnant. J Gotta love mothers … let’s say another God Bless!
This morning I felt at a different place with the depression. We’re taking ourselves up a level to just “cautious.” Thing is then to play it low key for a week and see how it goes. Our major markers yet are seeing the memory guy tomorrow with Dr. M., a staffing, and two CSO people out on Friday, then the neurosurgeon on Monday late afternoon. We’ll have a good amount of school work to be going through over the weekend too. Otherwise, should be getting better. Our sweetie pie is on his third round with his cold though. He said it started again yesterday. Have to count that in too. AND, V isn’t feeling too hot. Plus, T still out … she says she’s too busy, but I’m wondering about the nekid cowboy. We don’t REALLY know what’s going on down there in Arizona, do we?!!
We’re still playing the John Denver songs. Not sure what is up there. We’ve been loving it to here his voice. Whoops and the cat is still staring at me. Not sure of that situation. Maybe he is telling me he doesn’t like his food again. He seems to think we serve smorgasbord. That’s sooo wrong!
Shoot we have housecleaning this morning too. The apartment people are coming in to put insulation in the roof. Maybe I shouldn’t have kept my balcony doors open all winter?? Hmm. I sure hope when the kitties go into hiding mood they don’t choose to hide under my bed, because the guys are going to be in my bedroom. The crawl space opens through my closet. Figures bunch of guys in my bedroom, and I’m not even here! NO FAIR!!
Ok, that’s enough of that kind of thinking.
Shoot … having harder time holding good space. I think it is partly the music. But, I don’t want to turn it off. It fills a hole inside of me.
Ok. Better again. Just have to do something I suppose. We picked up the place for the maintenance people. That makes us feel better. Going to need some help getting the floors clean. Anything would be an improvement. I think your right in that it is a good idea to keep a good attitude. This blue spell will come and go. Just have to pay attention. Hmm, even cleaned the kitty litter … YAYYYY! We opened the drapes for them too. Figure they might not go for my cave dwelling self. Kinda more cheery in here. Ahh, appropriate last song before work is “Sunshine on My Shoulders.”
I think I did everything necessary. Yep, toilet too hehehe Darn Men. They gotstabe going all the time! Let’s see fresh towel … what else, what else. Hmm, should I start the dishwasher? Naw that will wait I don’t want it sitting in the middle of the floor. Woo Hoo … This has been our biggest obstacle of the day and we MASTERED IT! J Ok, step II. Somebody has to earn the kitty food! Yep … that be me!
posted by Ann Marie @ _1/25/2006 06:48:00 AM__Comments: 8_
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_TJ__ said..._
I hope you have something walk into you day and make you really laugh so you can carry a smile in your heart.
Wednesday, January 25, 2006 8:40:00 AM
_Tamara__ said..._
Hey Lady, I'm sooooo glad to hear that your spirits are up a few notches, I worry about ya'll when you get too down.
That is a bummer that all those men will be in your bedroom and you won't be there to watch. I love watching men work, they seem to be in their relm when they do.
What's wrong with Vince? Man I hope he doesn't have the same flu that I had, its a killer!
Tell your sweetie that I hope he kicks this cold fast, is he taking vitamin C?
Pet the kitty's for me and give yourself a big hug.
Love ya,
T
Wednesday, January 25, 2006 11:51:00 AM
_Christina K Brown__ said..._
(I will let you in on a secret, just between us girls, I love John Denver. "Grandma's Feather Bed" and "Thank God I'm a Country Boy" and make me smile any day.)
Glad you are feeling a bit happy Ayn. xxoo
Wednesday, January 25, 2006 6:42:00 PM
_Bon & Mal Mott__ said..._
Keep thinking good thoughts, Ayn. It never hurts.
Love,
Bon & Mal
Wednesday, January 25, 2006 8:33:00 PM
_Bedazzzled1__ said..._
Your comment about men being in your bedroom while you're not there is indicative of a mood improvement! Yay!
Keep on keeping on.
Thursday, January 26, 2006 12:17:00 AM
_V__ said..._
Woo Hoo! Waitin` for the new baby!!
A Girl!! [hehehehe]
...... Plus, T still out … she says she’s too busy, but I’m wondering about the nekid cowboy. We don’t REALLY know what’s going on down there in Arizona, do we?!!..... I was wonderin` about that too!
Good work with the housecleaning!!
.......Whoops and the cat is still staring at me. Not sure of that situation. Maybe he is telling me he doesn’t like his food again. He seems to think we serve smorgasbord...... Yea C H I E F !!!!
V
Thursday, January 26, 2006 5:37:00 AM
_Tammy Brierly__ said..._
You sound much better Ayn :) Congrats on the new grandbaby!!! I like John Denver:)
Friday, January 27, 2006 2:25:00 PM
_Jod{i}__ said..._
Ayn
Forgive me for not commenting sooner, your comment in my blog truly and wonderfully made my day. In all honesty? I go back and read that specific comment everyday...Your words so kind and really touched my heart! Thank you.
For today I return that note and your spirits soar and the jump out at me, lifting me once again! Today you are my hero!
Thank you
Jodi
Friday, January 27, 2006 6:48:00 PM
Working through Memory Test for Meeting :) I remembered!
Good morning. J We’re doing better. I think, not sure. Oh dear a fence-sitter. Let’s see how I do over the time of a post. I really don’t have much to say though. Hmm, that’s not right, how could I have little to say. A full day has gone by.
I think the only thing that happened yesterday was working on an audio project for Sr. Tess. Our big fundraiser is coming up in the middle of May and each year the clients put on a couple of musical numbers. This year there is in addition dancing due to the efforts of our dance instructor. Sr. usually takes a big part of the music. This year she’s chosen to do “Good Morning” and “Singing in the Rain” from that musical and the Sledge Sisters, “We are family.” Good morning was just added a couple of days ago. I’ve been in charge of music.
Yesterday, I had to burn new CD’s with the second songs and figure out how to get the music for just 45 seconds of the new song. Maybe there is an easy way to do this, but I’m sure I didn’t know that. Added to the dilemma was that Sister wanted spaces between the songs. That … just didn’t happen. I could do it through the use of pictures, but then the CD became a video and couldn’t be processed like a regular audio tape. We did figure out the cropping task through the use of the Windows movie maker, the downloading from one of those sharing programs (needed the licenses), and then from Music Match. Other programs were experimented with, but these are the main three. It made my mind go mushy! But, the end results were good. Just that … it took me an entire day to do it. I had to go through it twice to get it just the way Sr. wanted it.
She’s decided that not only Tuesdays and Thursdays with the dancers, but after lunch for 30-45 minutes the group would practice with her. It involves a whole staff. She rearranged all the tables in the multi-purpose room so that it could be done. God Bless the ones who keep up at her pace. The others are subject to her anger. There is no doubt she is in full command of this ship. Much as I will say about all that. I’ve watched for the last couple of days. You can tell work has been put in on this project. I’m not sure why I am staying, except the fact that it is an all-consuming project. I’m hoping that maybe I can pick up something that will be helpful. Just in case I’m asked. Other wise, we’re staying clear of getting ourselves in trouble. I think Sr. appreciates that I’m there as much as she appreciates anything.
So, that was that … maybe today I can be doing something else. I know that the assistant will be in today. That always makes Thursdays something to look forward to. The Friday appointment has been moved to Monday, if the CSO guy can change his schedule, we’ll see. I should be working toward that staffing and the next coming up on I believe Wednesday. Then I should be done for some time, until early June. This will be good, because I can expect the CARF material to be arriving anytime soon. Earnestly, that project has to be begun.
Hmm, that enough about work? Yah. Guess so.
Didn’t hear much from Sweetie Pie. He was sick, but still went to work yesterday. Ugh! His son ended up on complete bed rest at home and is already bored. Giggle, that will teach him to get sick. Young people just make a muck of it!
We have made arrangements to be going out to visit our youngest on campus on Sunday. I am still having feelings about no one scheduling in Christmas with me. I have to be facing that soon. I did ok with it in IMs with both the boys, but the situation hasn’t been confronted. I’m pretty sure it’s gone right over the head of the youngest and I figure so close to term of the oldest second child, the time isn’t right for all that. Maybe some more work with Dr. M.
His meeting is today and we’ll talk to the memory guy. I’m having a hard time picking up that project, but I would imagine I should be taking care of that this morning. I would feel better if questions were organized; just I have it marked as a hard subject to go through. Maybe if I broke it up by different factors that were being tested. Hmm, maybe I should get started with that. Maybe you’ll go through a bit of it with me?
Dear Dr. M.
I have reordered the different tests so that they are more helpful to the way I think and will want to ask general questions such as:
A. How does the better scored variables help the lesser scored variables
B. How do general categories such as Attention, work memory, etc. work with learning and memory and what specifically is the ability processed in each category
C. How do the subgroups (perfect, superior, etc.) work together within their general ranges
D. What do the general tests measure or mean
E. I would like to understand the big picture (summary and recommendations) such as retrieval-based difficulties and reduced initial learning capacity (esp. verbal)
Dear Dr. M.,
I have reordered the different tests so that they are more helpful to the way I think and will want to ask general questions such as:
A. How does the better scored variables help the lesser scored variables
B. How do general categories such as Attention, work memory, etc. work with learning and memory and what specifically is the ability processed in each category (I would like examples)
C. How do the subgroups (perfect, superior, etc.) work together within their general ranges
D. What do the general tests measure or mean
E. I would like to understand the big picture (summary and recommendations) such as retrieval-based difficulties and reduced initial learning capacity (esp. verbal)
- Perfect
a. Recognition paradigm (Learning and memory)
- Superior
a. Intelligence, FSIQ=120 (Gen Intel and Overall Neuropsych functioning)
b. Word knowledge, T=67 (Gen Intel and Overall Neuropsych functioning)
- High (above) Average
a. Speeded single word decoding, T=67 (Att, work mem, and speeded proc)
b. General word knowledge, T=67 (Language)
c. Single word reading abilities, FSIQ=116 (Gen Intel and Overall Neuropsych functioning)
d. Speeded color identification, T= 60 (Att, work mem, and speeded proc)
e. Timed-visuomotor scanning and rapid sequencing, T=60 (Att, work mem, and speeded proc)
f. Learn and spontaneously recall a visuospatial array with delay, T=59 (Learning and memory)
g. Nonverbal inductive reasoning, T=57 (Gen Intel and Overall Neuropsych functioning)
h. Visual inductive reasoning, T=56 (Visuoperceptual/Visuoconstructive abilities)
i. Speeded generation of unique figural designs, ss=12
j. Speeded word generation to letters and semantic categories (letter fluency), ss=9 (Executive/novel problem solving)
13 items above average------------------------------------------------------>
- Average
a. Visuaospatial analysis and construction, SS-105 (Visuoperceptual/ Visuoconstructive abilities)
b. Delayed memory (verbal and visual), SS=103 (Learning and memory)
c. Novel problem solving that requires abstraction and mental flexibility perseverative responses, SS-100 (Executive/novel problem solving)
d. Novel problem solving dependent on planning and efficiency, SS=100 (Executive/novel problem solving)
e. Recognition paradigm, z-score=0 (Learning and memory)
f. Novel problem solving that requires abstraction and mental flexibility, SS=99 (Executive/novel problem solving)
g. Recognition of visual information after viewing the stimuli, ss=9 (Learning and memory)
h. Speeded word generation to letters and semantic categories (letter fluency), ss=9 (Executive/novel problem solving)
Midline of 16 average items 8 above, 8 below--------------------------->
i. Speeded word generation to letters and semantic categories (Category fluency), ss=9 (Executive/novel problem solving)
j. Grip strength (grip dominant and nondominant hands, ss=9 (Motor functioning)
k. Broad neuropsychological screening measures, SS=91 (Gen Intel and Overall Neuropsych functioning)
l. Intact naming and verbal fluency SS=91 (Language)
m. Learn and spontaneously recall a visuospatial array, T=52 (Learning and memory)
n. Sustained visual attention and concentration, Error T=43 (Att, work mem, and speeded proc)
o. Speeded digit symbol coding (Att, work mem, and speeded proc)
p. Discriminate between sources of information (Learning and memory)
13 items under average------------------------------------------------------>
- Low (below) Average
a. Attention index, SS=85 (Att, work mem, and speeded proc)
b. Immediate memory (verbal and visual), SS=85 (Learning and memory)
c. Inhibit over learned responses under timed conditions, Interference, T=42 (Att, work mem, and speeded proc)
d. Timed-visuomotor scanning and rapid sequencing task (attention divided and sequenced between numbers and letters, T=42 (Att, work mem, and speeded proc)
- Mildly Impaired
a. Spontaneous recall after a delay w/semantic cuing, z-score=-1 (Learning and memory)
b. Inhibit responses to non-target stimuli, Error T=43 (Att, work mem, and speeded proc)
c. Spontaneous recall after a delay, z-score=-1.5 (Learning and memory)
- Mild to Moderately Impaired
a. Intermediate memory for thematically organized verbal information with delay, ss=7 (Learning and memory)
b. Intermediate memory for thematically organized verbal information (i.e., stories), ss=6 (Learning and memory)
c. Visual memory task with complex figures immediately after viewing the stimuli and with longer delay, ss=6 (Learning and memory)
d. Immediate auditory attention (Att, work mem, and speeded proc)
e. Verbal list learning task (Learning and memory)
- Moderately Impaired
a. Learning additional information over 5 trials, T=32 (Learning and memory)
b. Initial acquisition of information, z-score -2 (Learning and memory)
n=42
Note: Standard scores (SS) have a mean of 100 and a standard deviation of 15; T-scores have a mean of 50 and a standard deviation of 10; Scales scores (ss) have a mean of 10 and a standard deviation of 3; z-scores have a mean of 0 and a standard deviation of 1.
Ok, thanks. I feel better now. I’ve sent Dr. M. the work and will hope that he will print it out for the meeting so that we’re all on MY page!
Hehehe
AHA! V’s FINALLY up!! Bum slept until 6 am his time! This is what happens when people semi-retire! They start lolli-gagging. Hehehe I can say this because he’s gone for coffee hehehe
posted by Ann Marie @ _1/26/2006 05:19:00 AM__Comments: 2_
_"Working through Memory Test for Meeting :) I remembered!"_
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_V__ said..._
Well, Ayn, I`ll bet neuropsych Doc will have his hands full! LOL
Only thing I would add. I know they dont have normative data for MPDs but can he infer that any low scores are associated with it?
V
Thursday, January 26, 2006 5:31:00 AM
_Tamara__ said..._
Great question V., I too am curious about this? It would be my guess that there is a direct correlation to the MPD and lower scores. It would also be my guess that while you were taking the tests, someone else (perhaps the youngest members)slipped in and gave the answers. This could happen couldn't it?
Love you,
T
Thursday, January 26, 2006 9:29:00 AM
Announcing:
Gramma sees a writer in those wise eyes!
It's a GIRL!!!
Her name is Elisabeth Gabriella
She is just 6 pounds 2 ounces
and she was born to
to Number #1 son and daughter-in-law
on Friday, January 27, 2006 @ 12:43 pm
and she is PERFECT!!!
First Gramma Ann Report:
Gorgeous very gorgeous and so very, very sweet! This one is more petite … that is what her proud Mama is claiming. I think I agree … we might just call her orchid, she’s that delicate! She’s already doing the smile thing and she has soooo many other interesting faces. But, she isn’t a very loud crier. I guess we’ll add a God Bless, just in case she decides to change her mind later. The nasty ol nurse came in and pecked her foot to draw blood and Elisabeth said, “Hey!” through a chirp, but then went right back to sleep. Her Daddy said she was a pretty tuckered out.
We held her most the time we were there and right before the nurse came in we realized that her little feet had come out from under the swaddling thing goin on there. My son says she needs to be kept very warm. They are the nicest little feet, long and thin, and her Mama says her fingers match and that she’s going to be a musician! YAYYYY! Musician Writer is a good idea! Maybe a Mozartella! I think her proud Daddy and Mommy brought at least 3 camera’s to the hospital. And, Daddy figured out how to get one through his phone lickidy split for Gramma to post. BUT, we got scolded a little bit for putting up sooooo many pictures Elisabeth’s sister. Whoops, Busted! In defense, he said there were like 20, but actually there is only 9 … so that takes care of that problem! I know, I know ... I’ll be more careful ... I promise … I didn’t even know he still knew my blog address!!
Elisabeth’s Mom told me about how things happened and I listened very carefully. She’s a good story teller, but she makes things sound too easy. I think once she used the word for "labor" as “hard.” But, you couldn’t tell it by looking at her and she was only referring to the last half hour of birth. But, I'm pretty sure she didn't use the ominous p*** word. She’s up and dressed and all fixed up beautiful as if she was visiting someone else at the hospital. She absolutely glows and she doesn’t waddle or anything! Dad looks a little scruffier. I think he forgot to pack his shaver.
The room was the most beautiful hospital room I’ve ever seen. My DIL has connections and the nurses held out the BEST room, until it was needed by her. It is larger than most hotel rooms and she was explaining things pull out of the walls and ceiling for delivery time, and the baby is born right in the room. The floor is hard wood and she has a nice “three-sided tower” like window in front of a small table. The room also had a swanky looking modern rocker and a futon type bed for Dad. You can see it … it’s where I am sitting with Elisabeth. I guess sleeping with husband in the same bed still isn’t the first thing one thinks of after having a child the same day *giggle!*
We had a few things we found that we wanted to give her and those got opened and put away just before a couple of the baby’s other Gramma’s came in. One was a GREAT Gramma. We were trying to leave so we would be graceful, but it was hard leaving the space. We wanted to hear the whole story over again, but figured her family might like some privacy. We were good.
They had though brought in Ame. She was very excited and came rushing in the room saying something in a loud, booming coo like, “How are you sister!??” What a beauty!! I’m so glad I had seen it with my own eyes. There was this one other instance I will never forget. Elisabeth’s GREAT Gramma was holding her, and Elisabeth let out a few squeaks. That’s what Ame calls them. Ame was right there, the room quieted as we all realized about the same time that Ame was singing her sister a nursery school lullaby about how much she loved her. And, Elisabeth fell back asleep. WoW! Really something! I asked Ame's Mother first thoughts and concerning Ame they were something like, “Is our baby here already?!” She’s just so proud of her new little Sister. Ame will be five next month. Her mother made her a shirt that says BIG sister! Such a warm and wonderful few moments in my life. This is the kind of thing you remember for ever!
I think its time for bed … this kind of thing can’t be topped!! I want to just dream our most pleasant thoughts. Nitey-nite!!
posted by Ann Marie @ _1/28/2006 01:52:00 AM__Comments: 13_
13 Comments - _Show Original Post__Collapse comments_
1 – 13 of 13
_V__ said..._
Woo Hoo!!!
Congratulations to everyone!
Welcome Elizabeth!
Way to go, Gramma!!!!
V
Saturday, January 28, 2006 5:31:00 AM
_V__ said..._
Yikes!
Elisabeth, not Elizabeth!!
V
Saturday, January 28, 2006 5:34:00 AM
Anonymous said...
Happy Birthday Elisabeth! and i am so glad for you Ann waiting for the pictures:)
Deb
Saturday, January 28, 2006 11:25:00 AM
_Emily Suess__ said..._
What wonderful news! Congrats!
Saturday, January 28, 2006 1:32:00 PM
_Tammy Brierly__ said..._
Congradulations Ayn!!! Hurry with the pictures please!
Saturday, January 28, 2006 3:02:00 PM
_Christina K Brown__ said..._
Oh congrats all around!!!!!!
xxooxxooxxoo
Sunday, January 29, 2006 1:50:00 AM
_V__ said..._
And now, the first pics of the new writer/musician! How Beautiful!
And how serene & regal she is in her Grammas arms. Im so happy for you, Gramma.
It was perfect for you to be there when the sisters first met.
......Such a warm and wonderful few moments in my life. This is the kind of thing you remember for ever!............
Hugs,
V
Sunday, January 29, 2006 6:11:00 AM
_Bon & Mal Mott__ said..._
Congratulations on achieving grandmother once more! Very cute, tiny little Elisabeth! Enjoy this time.
Love,
Bon & Mal
Sunday, January 29, 2006 7:13:00 AM
_Jod{i}__ said..._
WOW!!!!!!
Oh and the gorgeous name? I look at the photo, oh I so see her fitting the name! PERFECT! Just want to snuggle...COngratulations!!!
Hmmm, nothing in the world like a new baby!
BBlessings,
Jodi
Sunday, January 29, 2006 8:56:00 AM
_Tammy Brierly__ said..._
She is beautiful Ayn and you looked beautiful holding the little "Orchid."
Sounds like beautiful visit grandma :)
XXOO
Tammy
Sunday, January 29, 2006 3:01:00 PM
Anonymous said...
Ann I just love the photos of you holding the precious dear little Flower:) what a wonderful story about the sisters:) when i had amanda zach was the same way he told everyone that was his baby. Hope you get more pics soon:)
Deb
Sunday, January 29, 2006 3:59:00 PM
_Bedazzzled1__ said..._
So very dainty is that beautiful orchid. ::smile::
Congratulations!
Tuesday, January 31, 2006 12:16:00 AM
_TJ__ said..._
Oh beautiful Elizabeth!!!
Congrats everyone!!!!!
Ayn she does have those writing eys, or a very good listener.
(Hugs)
Tuesday, January 31, 2006 12:14:00 PM
A Day with Jacob is like a Day of Sunshine
Evening … yes V. I know school … But, I just got back AND I haven’t been able to visit any of my on-line friends and, and … I surely get to say something about visiting son #3!??
We’re just goin to pretend here that V is still over at his #1 son’s watching something on the new huge super TV! Yes, that will work out conveniently!
We drove out to Jacob’s today and had a pretty nice trip out there. It takes about an hour and 15 minutes and the last 25 are quiet fast highway and farms. I got a little sick a couple of times while out, but nothing that could spoil a good trip! We met downstairs in his complex’ lobby where there are chairs and a big TV in the background. Not many people use the area. Jacob and I have this mutual understanding … we both arrive at exactly 11 am. Hehehe 5 minutes to in my case J The next thing is my super duper hugs he gives me! Then we sit down for a few moments to talk about anything that’s hot (under the guise of him never knowing where he wants to eat out).
Apparently, his school loan went through which is giving him most the money he needs. His father owed him $2,500 from work completed over the summer, so that took care of most the rest. Jacob thinks that he might be about $1,000 short. He was talking about some kind of Sally Mae loan that you can get if you are borrowing together with another parent/sibling who’s in school?? I’m not real sure he gave me a number that I will call tomorrow after the staffing. He said he would take out the max because he’s had a hard time and has gone through periods now this last semester where he was down to his last $20. I didn’t like that at all.
Then it got me thinking that maybe if there IS a loan available to me as well (in addition to the school loan I have), then maybe I could borrow enough to put a big down payment on a new car. I’m not sure, but my mind was playing in the wiggle room. The car is doing well and only on 83,000, but it is 10 years old. If the loan wasn’t due until after I finish school and my school is now being pulled out to ten years, then I’d be in much better shape. We figure during this next 10 years, Sr. will have needed to stop being Administrator and we are going to need reevaluating our circumstances. I’m pretty sure she is 80 or will turn 80 this year. Regardless of anything else, I’m going to use what I consider my loose money and pay to get Jacob into a special Karate club.
One of the big conversations this time (we stayed for 4 ½ hours) was that he and his best friend were taking together two karate courses. Jacob is pretty good at Karate. He’s been taking it now for about 10 years with a Sensai near his father’s house. He’s a brown belt. But, the two Karate courses that he is taking now are both different from the first. One of the courses is Korean and the other is Japanese. I know … why would someone with two courses and one at home, want with MORE Karate?!! But, this is where a mother’s instinct plays in. I haven’t told him I would do this yet, but his birthday is a week from today. He only has this semester and next before he graduates. He is not planning on going to grad school at this time. BUT, he is under a lot of pressure, particularly due to the finances. Getting these loans help a lot, but what has helped the most was the time put into physical activity, particularly doing something he loves and with his best friend. The friend is in the club and stopped in right before I left. I asked him how he was doing (he’s been Jacob’s best friend for about 8-9 years). He is an accounting major and spoke first of the tremendous pressures that he has been feeling on some pretty tough courses. Neither Jacob or his friend have girls right now, but they met through their athleticism. They were on the same high school gymnastics team and were both college cheerleaders throwing pretty girls in the air! Hehehe Neither of the boys has had a athletic outlet this last semester and its been bogging both of them down. They are both very much into healthy minds/bodies thinking. Jacob’s friend talked about the Karate club while I was there. He said that instead of time spent with 40 to 60 kids taking the course, the instructor only had 9 of them to work with, plus he had brought in his black belt son. The friend said the same thing Jacob did … you cannot imagine the pressure let go of while learning this art. Jacob said the instructor believes that people should leave their problems outside the door and come in with clear minds. This is the kind of stuff with my scraggley money management skills I see as an excellent usage of funds. AHA! J
We had quite a few good discussions. One of the hallmark talks is that we discuss Jacob’s game life. He held back on Dungeons and Dragons and in stead talked a war game he and his brothers play … a lot. I am still forgetting the title of the game, but Jacob explained it as on one level playing 10x10, meaning 10 good guys and 10 bad guys. You choose early in your game career which one you are going to be. The boys and their family/friends are on the good guy side. Next he says it is played like capture the flag. Then he went through a tremendous amount of explanation telling me the strategies involved. Like about changing animal forms like cheetahs and bears, working magic that slows people down or makes them dizzy, fighters who swing axe blades, or healers that protect the teams’ runners. There is much much more to it though. He said he and the above are in their own guild and the first set of goals includes “leveling up.” The boys each have a couple of guys leveled up to 60 which I guess is tops, then there is another set of something that if you get to the 14th rank, you are the best of everyone. I guess there are like 150 or so something competitions and each of them have about 1500 people at any given time playing, and maybe about 30,000 players in total. The boys are like at anywhere from rank 4 to 12 (after all having reached 60). Jacob says that at this 9 stage there is about 100 people at the same place. Everything is hard when you are going through it, but never as hard when you make the top 20 players. I guess the competition to be number one is pretty demanding, but after you get it you’ve by then have all the armor and are given a special weapon that you get to keep even though you might not stay holding that space as #1. The game tallies up I think once a week.
Today, Jacob talked about a little friction from his group. And, also friction building around the group that trades down at the board. I think the three that lead that trouble is the boys Uncle, Son #2, and their step-brother. I think these people are like in a tremendous amount of stress. Jacob talks about being able to change his surroundings more easily which takes off some of the pressure. Basically, he has other interests. Good! I think another thing that son #3 has going for him is that he can be pretty mellow. He is much more apt to turn the other cheek. Mostly, we just listen and ask questions. We worry a bit too. We like to hear that people are moving at an even keel.
Every time I meet with Jacob I am learning something new. He thinks at a pretty unique level of who he is and what he stands for. It comes out through normal discussions on where he is at with his courses, friends, family etc. and even where he is at with his spiritual life. I think more and more each passing month, he is willing to give more of himself over to his faith. This isn’t something that the other boys have managed to do. Unfortunately, for them, we were not a family that often went to church, though there has been many discussions on God and principles of His work. I’m pretty proud that Jacob has taken it seriously. It allows me to feel a sense of safety in that he is grounded. Son #1 can look out for his immediate family. Jacob is more able to look out for the other guy even as a stranger. I think that son #2 looks out for those he surrounds himself with, but he HAS to be the final word and his anger gets him into compromised positions with the others trust. He is very willing to do like he did with us and basically, kick people off and out of his life. Simplistically, he thinks, “I don’t need you, goodbye.” This isn’t something that Jacob has said, it is more how I put things together. And, as often as I am angry with son #2 and sometimes hurt, I don’t stop being concerned and worried about what is happening to him. I’d give my life if I knew it would allow him to let go of some of that anger that he uses to protect his system from being off its delicate balance. He’s got so much rage. *sigh*
I think though that I will cut off here. I’m having a little more problem with pain management, though its certainly not so much I’m going to go cliff jumping ;). I am taking positive thoughts with me as I think over how much I love my kids. Don’t always like what they do, but I love the hell out of them! My life has been blessed.
Good night!
posted by Ann Marie @ _1/29/2006 06:57:00 PM__Comments: 10_
_"A Day with Jacob is like a Day of Sunshine"_
10 Comments - _Show Original Post__Collapse comments_
1 – 10 of 10
Anonymous said...
I am so glad you had a good day with son #3 :) It is always good to see them grow up. Sorry you are in so much pain. Have a good sleep
Deb
Monday, January 30, 2006 12:59:00 AM
_V__ said..._
Hi Gramma!
Sounds like you had a great visit with #2 son. Im happy to hear that hes in pretty good shape financially. I didnt realize hes now a senior!
Those guys better get off the puters & in ti some socials; girls are good!
4 1/2 hour visit...Woo Hoo.
Im glad you didnt talk about the veggieburger.
Score for weekend...MPD=2 posts; MW= 0 posts. Gotta even those numbers up!
Hugs,
V
Monday, January 30, 2006 4:37:00 AM
_V__ said..._
Yikes! #3 son......Sorry!
V
Monday, January 30, 2006 4:39:00 AM
_Christina K Brown__ said..._
Good morning...I am glad that your visit went well too!!
xxoo
Monday, January 30, 2006 8:07:00 AM
_Bedazzzled1__ said..._
It reflects well on you as a mother AND friend that your son so easily discusses his life with you. And your concern for all of your children is obvious. You are a very good person.
Tuesday, January 31, 2006 12:19:00 AM
_Tammy Brierly__ said..._
I'm so glad you have been enjoying family time this last week. I hear such joy in your voice, but remember to take good care of yourself too!
Much love,
Tammy
Tuesday, January 31, 2006 11:18:00 AM
_TJ__ said..._
Our grown man children...always nice to catch a moment with them. Glad you had a great visit.
(Hugs) TJ
Tuesday, January 31, 2006 12:15:00 PM
_Bon & Mal Mott__ said..._
We're happy that you derive so much enjoyment from visiting with your son, and sorry that your pain is increasing. Take care of yourself.
Love,
Bon & Mal
Tuesday, January 31, 2006 4:09:00 PM
_TJ__ said..._
Which blog do want listers in the Writers club?
Tuesday, January 31, 2006 6:39:00 PM
_Tom__ said..._
Jacob sounds like a fine young man. I can tell you are proud of him, and attentive to his needs. And congrats on being a grandma.
Friday, February 10, 2006 6:16:00 AM