Ellisa in Wildflowers

Memorial Weekend 2012

Well, this weekend wasn’t what I was hoping for but it was still pretty good. I won’t go into details, but Hudson got his first fever Saturday afternoon while we were staying at my dad’s. I was of course worried, and Hudson was of course an unhappy boy. It got up to 101.6 degrees that … Read more

"Bicki" and Ellisa Swinging

The Purma Family Visit, May 2012

We had such a nice time with the Purma’s on their recent visit. Here’s a recap of what we did along with some pictures. Of course, I feel like I didn’t take enough. The Purma’s arrived Thursday night around 7pm and it immediately felt like Christmas morning. The kids got tons of new clothes, toys, … Read more

Ellisa Looking at a Picture of her Grandparents

Friday Fun Spot: Naming the Purmas

Since the Purma’s came to visit last week, I felt this was a good time to show this video. A wrap-up post about their visit to come soon! Lots of photos included (for those that have requested more photos). – – – – – – – – – – – - I couldn’t believe it … Read more

Ellisa: Future's so Bright

Ellisa’s First Words

I can’t be more thrilled than to post Ellisa’s list of first words! Ellisa didn’t say any “real” words at 12 months. When we went in for her 18 month check-in and I was asked if she was saying 10-12+ words, my answer was “No.” I was at that point concerned about her language development. … Read more

Hudson: At a Loss for Words.

Hudson’s First Words

I’ve given up tracking words. Hudson’s saying so many these days, I just can’t do it anymore. Once he said “Cash” for Johnny Cash, I figured he was way beyond my documentation. So without further adieu, here’s the list in all its glory. I hope he enjoys looking at this one day when he’s older … Read more

Hudson Jumps

Friday Fun Spot: Hudson Jumps

I never knew how funny it would be when my kids began to try to jump. It’s hilarious! You can tell in this video how Hudson thinks he’s jumping but all he is doing is lifting his body up (raising his arm) and then stepping down. A month later, he’s just about got it!

Ellisa Says Hello

Friday Fun Spot: Ellisa Says “Ruh Roh”

I’m not sure anyone will find this funny but I find it hilarious, as you can tell from my laughter in the video. I just can’t stop thinking of Scooby Doo every time she says it. Enjoy and happy Friday!

Ellisa During a Shunt Malfunction

Welcome to the Wonderful World of Hydrocephalus: Part 2, The Basics

Let’s cover the basics* this week: What is hydrocephalus? Also known as “water in the brain,” hydrocephalus is a medical condition in which there is an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the ventricles, or cavities, of the brain. Is there a treatment for it? Yes, there are two types of treatment, both of which require surgical procedures by a … Read more

Hudson's White Lie

Friday Fun Spot: Hudson’s First White Lie

I don’t know why I love this so much. Probably because it is SO obvious when Hudson has gone poo poo. I’m not sure why he thinks if he tells me “No” I’ll believe him over the stench. The first of many white lies to come. Notice he is saying Book (and semi-signing it), Up, … Read more

(L) Ellisa's Ventricles as of March 2012 (R) Ellisa's Ventricles Before Her VP Shunt

Welcome to the Wonderful World of Hydrocephalus: Part 1, The Facts

Wonderful World? No. Wonderfully complex? Yes. And hydrocephalus seems to be a condition worthy of being from another world. In a better effort to educate myself on my daughter’s conditions, I thought I would start with an educational series on hydrocephalus. Please keep in mind, I am not a doctor and merely a mother trying … Read more