Foot Update and the Freezing Turkey Trot

Went to the doc last week to get the foot checked out.  When I arrived, the nurse went right to work with this rotating-saw-lookin' thing to my cast and started sawing away. The nurse looked like she was 18. About halfway through the cast excavation process, I had to just close my eyes. My imagination was going wild with all sorts of ideas like "what if she slips and cuts to my skin?!"  She looked so young I thought for sure this was her first week on the job out of high school and I was her first patient. When she was finished she looked at me and said, "Oh. I probably should have told you this doesn't actually rotate. It just vibrates really fast in order to separate the fibers on the cast. It couldn't cut your skin unless I pressed down really against your bare skin with it."

Yeah. I think that would have been nice to know.

 Then she said, "Sometimes people don't recognize their foot when they see it for the first time. One woman last week cried. Just so you know."

When she took off the cast I wanted to cry, too. My foot...well...it didn't look like my foot. It was just like she had explained. And it was weird. It was like I was looking at someone else's foot. Creepy is probably the best way to describe it. Kind of emotional, too. Sounds silly.  I was relieved when the nurse left. I didn't want her to see me so disappointed and in shock.  I almost took a picture with my phone....but then thought better of it. I just wanted the doctor to hurry up and cover my foot up with another cast. I didn't like looking at it.  Immediately I began questioning if I should get the other foot done.  I don't know what I expected, but not this. I can only imagine what it's like for people who get plastic surgery done to look in the mirror and see them, but a very different version of them.   Clearly I am aware that my feet do not define me. And if I really don't like the results, they are probably the easiest body part to cover up for the rest of my life.  After thinking upon it for a while, I think I realized what I didn't like about my foot.

It's all the other toes. My toes are all curled up and scrunched together-- as a result of living with a bunion for most of my life. So, while my big toe stands tall and straight without the bunion sticking out of the side, the rest of my toes are still deformed and...well, not pretty.

So now I think, why didn't I have the doctor fix all those other toes?  We talked about it, but the doctor didn't recommend it.   The more invasive you get, the more chance of problems, etc. etc..... so I just said, fix the problem and I'll shove my vanity aside.

And now I am kind of regretting it.

Anyway. The doctor came in and oohed and ahhed over the foot and how "beautifully straight" it was.  I  just wanted him to hurry and cast it back up already.  I picked blue this time for the cast--- to show my BYU school spirit and all. Not that it helped.  We listened to the game on our way home from Boise.  After the Boise State Game, the BYU game really put Kyle into a depression. Is it just me or do televised sporting events often times determine the happiness of your spouse? :)

So....3 more weeks ish of not being able to walk on my foot. I am living in sweats still. Still thinking about not doing the other one. I don't know if I could live with two alien feet, you know?  Kyle thinks I'm silly for thinking that way. "What do you mean? You're sad your foot no longer looks like a triangle?"

Well....when you put it that way, I guess I am happy to not have a triangle for a foot anymore....  but it still doesn't look like "mine."

In other more important news, {did I really just write like 12 paragraphs about my foot?!} we had a lovely Thanksgiving vacation in Boise. Mary looked and felt better than she did during our visit last month and had fun telling Cade some good stories from Kyle's childhood.  She spoiled Cade and Savvy with a Lego set and little pink laptop when they all ran errands together at Wal-Mart. {Cade just flat out said, "Grandma, will you buy me a Lego set?"  We're going to have to work on those manners....}

Kyle's family put on a 5K Turkey Trot in their neighborhood Thanksgiving morning and BOY WAS IT COLD!  12 degrees. Ruby and I stayed in the truck and watched from afar. I did hobble out to watch the kids' race.  We were shocked people came to run the full 5K in the crazy cold weather.  I like to think I would have run it if I wasn't out of commission, but I don't know..... !! There was a great deal of support from their ward and family. I think Mary felt especially loved that morning. The hope is to continue the Turkey Trot and do one each year in memory of Mary and donate any proceeds to breast cancer research.

If you know the Woodbury's you know that they are avid Pinochle players. I have yet to really catch on to the game. I was pleasantly surprised since we last visited that they'd adopted another card game-- Wizard! It's a Pinochle-in-training sort of game. At least that's my take on it.  I was just thrilled to be able to actually participate in a card game with the family. (I'm not much fun explaining card games to. Back when Kyle and I were dating they attempted to explain Pinochle to me, but I was lost when they told me which card was "trump."  Trump? Trump? What does trump mean?)  I was a lost cause from the beginning.  In any case, I was thrilled to have been able to participate in the card playing this time around.

Savannah and Cade enjoyed jumping on the trampoline (still! Even in the frigid weather!), playing in the snow, and Cade rebuilt "Kitty City" -- something that has become a tradition now whenever he goes to visit. I'll have to show pictures of his last Kitty City he put together. Cade, much like his Grandpa, is a cat person. And Savvy is a dog person. So fortunately at Gramma Berry's there are both!  And at my home there are neither. It's the perfect set up.

We were sad to leave, and so grateful we got to visit when Mary was feeling good.  It was hard to hear her say, "I don't know if I'll be around for Christmas.  And if I am, I'll probably be feeling a lot worse."  We hope and pray that's not the case, but the doctors haven't lengthened her prognosis since August and we know her time on this earth is limited as the cancer continues to grow.  We had much to be grateful for this Thanksgiving. It was wonderful for all the siblings to be together.  Life and health is something none of us ever want to take for granted ever again....

We love you, Mary!

My Thankful Thursday

I am filled to the brim with gratitude...for so many things.......

First &Foremost, 

I Am Thankful For This Guy

{My Husband}

When I tell people I have to be completely off my left foot for 6 weeks the question is always the same -- "How do you do it with 3 kids and especially that new baby of yours?!"  The answer is easy: This man. He does it all. A-L-L.  He gets Cade ready for school including styling his hair and packing his lunch, takes Sav to and from Preschool and dance and fixes all of us lunch, gets up with the baby, keeps the kids happy and social-- like starting a Lego Club for Cade and his friends, loads and unloads the dishwasher, cleans (he was vacuuming our shutters on Saturday of all things!)... all the while still doing everything else that he has on his plate: serving in the Young Mens presidency, keeping up the lawn and pool, and --oh yeah--- that minor thing called work that provides for and sustains this family.  He's been such a good sport about all of this.  While I give him a hard time about some things.... you know, like rationing my Oreos, or completely filling our pantry with sugar-loaded cereal or stocking the freezer with corn dogs and Toaster Strudels...I am so grateful to this guy for the sweet support that he is. I would love to think if the tables were turned, that I would be just as sweet and helpful about doing everything while he was in bed most of the day, but I doubt I have that kind of goodness in me. 

This is my cowboy. I love him.

My Children

{Cade}

Cade has been so helpful lately. He always offers to carry my crutches up and down the stairs for me, grab a diaper for Ruby, or answer the door. He's growing up so fast and I'm doing my best to savor this sweet, innocent time with him.  He was the first to teach me what it meant to be a parent in all of it's selfless qualities, and how wonderful it is to have posterity of your own. Words can't describe the joy he has brought to my life, but I suppose this was a start.  Love you, my little Cruiser!

Cade at 18 months. Alexandria, Va.

Cade 10 months. Provo, Utah.

{Savannah}

I just think of this little girl and I laugh!  She has so much spunk, personality, and says the funniest things. I am so grateful for this little girl's cheerful nature.  She's like a bouncing smile -- never sits or stands still for a moment.  She is such a sweet sister and has yet to learn what it means to be envious or jealous. I love that about her. When Cade got a new Lego set, Savvy said, "Oh wow Cade, you're lucky!" and smiled and hugged him. I melted. That's our little girl! She has been so helpful lately as well. She's usually eager to put things away, or bring me something I need--- and I really do ask quite a bit of this little girl. 

Savvy age ?? West Chicago house.

{Our most recent drop-off from the Stork: Ruby}

Oh this little girl is precious! Today is her 3 month birthday and she has brought so much joy into our home. Her smiles are infectious.  It's so wonderful having another infant in the home again.   Some of her nick names: Rubes, Ruber, Rube-a-doob, Rubik's cube and her latest: Miss Piggy and The Nap-less Wonder. She is chugging down milk like crazy and I can hardly keep up. She has also not taken naps (unless you count 6 minutes of sleeping or 12 minutes sleeping a nap) during the day the past few days. I am not sure why she's trying to test me that way, but I'm not giving up.  This has to stop eventually, right?  Her thighs are full of those sweet baby fat rolls and her cheeks are irresistable. She's been sleeping through the night consistently since she was about 6 weeks old.  I am so grateful for the sleep she gives me. It is truly priceless.  It has also been a blessing to have her to snuggle and cuddle and take care of during my recovery. 

She's a great little bedside buddy. I love snuggling up with her burrito-style. :)

Family

{Dad}

He's so sweet and helpful!  This past Spring when Kyle was in Chicago, my dad and mom came to my rescue one Saturday. First, they made dozens of pancakes that we brought to a primary activity, then my dad came as Cade's special guest to the primary activity and played games with the kids.  After that, he came home and assembled Cade's new bed, fixed the garage door opener, put together their playroom table....and then of course played with the kids.  He came down again when Kyle was out of town over a particularly busy weekend and did even more stuff around the house. I really feel like he is an inspired man and knows his calling as a Father is never finished. Just when I am about at the end of my rope, he comes and gives me another one.

and played some more with the kids.

{Mom}

My mother is one of those sneaky serving types. She is not the type to come in and take over. She comes, quietly does what needs being done, and quietly leaves. She is also such an incredible grandmother.  She gets down on her hands and knees and isn't afraid to gift dirty with the kids. She obliges Cade and plays the Wii with him, and obliges Savvy with endless dress-up sessions complete with lots of ooohs and ahhhhs. She has also been a great help to me. When I was sick and pregnant, Mom came down to spend the afternoon with the kids on a Monday holiday. My Mom is a special-ed teacher, so free time is sacred, rare and precious!. She came again right after I had Ruby and spent a precious Saturday with us. Cade and Savvy LOVE spending time with Grandma. My mom came to my rescue yet again last Saturday and surprised me by coming down {with gorgeous flowers in hand, no less} and folded and put away laundry, played with the kids and took them out to have ice cream. 

All while I slept.  

{Melody}

Melody is a great party planner. She makes things happen.  This past summer, she planned a fabulous family reunion at Bear Lake. It was awesome. I was due in 8 days and was 3 cm dialated, but darnit, I knew it was going to be a good time. So I went anyways. Great location, great activities, great food... it was wonderful. She is also really great with my kids and always has something fun planed-- whether it's decorating cookies or playing baseball with them, she's a really cool, fun aunt.  I can't tell you how wonderful it's been having her just blocks away. We take advantage of her often, but for some reason she doesn't seem to mind. She's currently expecting her 3rd son and we are all so excited about it. She and Jon make such cute boys. Melody is often the reason why I have any fun. She gets me out. A couple of my two grandest times were last summer when we went to two concerts in one week-- she had tickets for both and even though I was in the middle of moving, she helped me see that good times far outlast the fun of unpacking.  I'm so glad I went!

Country concert at the Scera Shell. We had front row seats! 

Melody hosted Christmas in 2007. Of course she had all of our childhood traditions ready, including Santa and the cotton balls. You can tell how thrilled Cade is about it. 

{Rebecca}

While cleaning out my nook, I came across some old journals from when I was in high school. It touched me how close of friends "Goose" and I were, even back then. Five years between us has never seemed to make a difference in our relationship. She's always been such a dear friend and confidante. I remember telling her about the first time Kyle kissed me, and being so excited that she was the one to answer the phone first when I called to announce my engagement. She's such a sweet and selfless sister. I don't know how we lucked out to have her living just 30 minutes away, but I will gladly take it!  And if we're lucky, it will only get closer in time. :)  Cade is convinced that Aunt Rebecca is perfect. Sometimes when I am grumpy he asks me why I can't be more like Aunt Rebecca. "She never does anything wrong," he explains. I can't really disagree. There's not a mean bone in this girl's body. I'm so lucky to have her, especially now.

This was in 2006 maybe?  Becca stole our camera and when we downloaded our pictures, this was one of many suprises she left us on it. Silly girl. 

Goose watched the kids while Kyle and I ran in a race for Thanksgiving in 2008.  We all ran except for Goose, who kindly kept the kids herded together and didn't even lose one of them!

 Timeless Friends 

{The Spencers}

When people hear that we lived with another couple two summers of our traveling pest control years, most people gasp and ask, "Wow, how was that?" while assuming it was a regretful experience. Living with Luke and Alicia was anything but regretful.  It takes a special combination of people to be able to coexist peacefully.  Truly, it was more than just a cordial living arrangement. It was enjoyable.  We've made some great memories over the years-- traveling to the Philippines, Ocean City, MD and Hawaii, together.  We are lucky to still stay in touch with them and to have gotten to see Luke a few times this year.  Alicia and Jordan, next time Luke comes out, we'd love for you to come with!

Luke playing with Cade when we lived in Alexandria, Va. May 2005.

 Michelle and Alicia after a treacherous hike  in the Philippines. Sept 2005

Jordan and Cade in their undies.  Devil's Lake 2007?  That was a fun trip.

Luke and Alicia in Hawaii. December 2008

Timeless Friends {The Bookettes}

It all started in the pleasant view second ward. A girl named Sarah in the ward had started a book club and when I joined the ward in August of 2003, they invited me to join them. For 2 years these girls unfailingly invited me month after month, even though I turned them down every time.  It was really, really hard to come to book club, or find any time to read books for pleasure, but finally when graduation was on the horizon, I took the plunge into what it was like to be in one of those mommy book clubs.  I LOVED it!  These girls were hilarious, thoughtful, witty, intelligent, talented, and they didn't judge.  Over time, the women moved away from the ward, with the exception of two, but these gals still got together unfailingly every month, sometimes even getting together for overnighters.

Once I graduated and Kyle and I stopped trading off watching Cade to go to school-- rather, it was just me and Cade full time, it was hard to not be envious of Kyle's carefree life of coming and going to classes.  Some days were really long, hard, and not the blissful days of motherhood I had the expectations for.  For a while I thought I was crazy. A bad mother even. I never told anyone my thoughts. I thought that having a bad day, or sometimes wishing I could just be alone and get out was a sign that I was doing something utterly wrong.  Enter the bookettes.  These girls not only discussed good reads, but also the every-day ups and downs of motherhood. It wasn't long before I realized how normal I was. You have no idea how liberating this was for me. To realize no, I was not a bad mom, that yes, all good mothers have their days with their children and that getting out was something I never expected to gain from joining a book club. It truly was the greatest gift. And so when it was time for Kyle and I to head to Chicago, I was sad. Afraid I wouldn't find that type of support group ever again. I was wrong. But even better, I  hung on to these friends and they have been faithful ones. Two of them even came out to visit me in Chicago. Whenever I visited, I always planned my Utah trips around when book club was. It sorta felt like I never left. We still get together and I love how unique each woman is. We gain much from each other's experiences and I love having them in my life.

right after I moved back to Utah we all got together and surprised Liz for her big 3-0!!! Fun night.

About 2 weeks after Ruby was born, I hosted book club. Kind of out of selfishness-- It was easier for me to attend and be there on time if we had it at my place with a new baby and all. The girls surprised me with a thoughtful shower and I still am touched to tears for their kindness.  Ruby and I were spoiled!

Timeless Friends {Steve!}

Dear Steve Bishop Palmer,

 Thank you for allowing Kyle to join you fellas in South Dakota for a few days.  Had Kyle not gotten a little man-time vacation in before my surgery, I think he'd be going nuts.  Also, thank you for inviting him to play on your indoor soccer team. Even though your games begin right when the kids are going to bed or at 11:00pm, I am grateful Kyle has a place to go at the end of a long day and enjoy himself. Even if he does come home grumpy for losing. Work on winning, will ya? 

(Sorry, Ladies. He was taken long, long ago).

Timeless Friends {The "Shelleys"}

While out in Richmond for my reunion, I met up with two dear friends of mine from the high school days, Shelley B (left) and Shelley M (right). These girls ran track and cross country with me for three years. At an age when it is oft times difficult to find wholesome friends who like wholesome fun, these girls truly defied that premise. They continue to be upstanding chicas and though it has been over 13 years since we met, they still keep in touch and make the time to visit when I'm in town.

Giving Friends

{Virginia and Judy}

I know I spent a bit of time grumbling while planning the reunion, but truly, I had so much help. Virginia and Judy  really gave me a hand and got me through the reunion, despite their already hectic lives. I have known these girls since middle school.  They are smart, ambitious, successful, and have chosen great men to spend the rest of their lives with.  I look fondly back on the time I spent with these gals back in high school and consider myself so lucky to have been able to associate with them. They were such good friends and examples to me.  Thanks for sharing the table with me in the Library before school, gals!

(I think I totally pass for an Asian, don't you think?!)

{Lyndsey}

I met Lyndsey in college when I was 10 months pregnant with Cade.  We both ran for office for PRSSA for BYU and won. I ran unopposed....I don't remember about Lyndsey. In any case, we got to know each other really well over the next 2 semesters. After graduation, Lyndsey ran off to California to work at an awesome job and marry and awesome guy. A couple years later, they decided they hadn't gotten enough of Happy Valley, and came back for the hubs to get his Masters at BYU. She just had a darling baby boy named Jack about a month before I delivered Ruby and it's so nice knowing we are back in the same town again, minus tests and projects. :)  She is a great mommy, and a wonderful friend. Case in point: came to visit shortly after Ruby was born and with her brought a package of Oreos. More recently, I was in a bind. Kyle wasn't going to be home in time to take Sav to her dance class. It's a hard thing having to ask so many people for favors being practically bedridden and all, but as I scrolled through my phone, racking my brain on who I could possibly heave this inconvenient burden on,  I remembered a text Lyndsey had sent before I got surgery telling me if I needed anything, to let her know. Lynds is a genuine, real person, so I knew that meant the same for her offer. Because of that, I was able to swallow my pride and ask her. She was sweet to accept the task and Sav had a grand time with her. She even asked today if "Miss Lyndsey" was going to take her to dance today. I told her daddy was and she grumped back at me, "But I don't WANT Daddy ta take me ta dance. I want dat GIRL!" 

Lyndsey and Jack next to the mirror Lynds painted herself. :) {photo stolen off Lyndsey's blog.}

Food 

{esp. food I didn't cook!}

Even at 8 weeks after I had Ruby, kind friends were still calling asking if they could bring me meals.  It was easy to swallow my pride and accept these generous and thoughtful gestures -- around here there are some amazing cooks. These are just 2 pictures of several delectable meals we've had over the last several weeks. How could one turn down this kind of food?! Now that I am a little out of commission, the generosity of friends and neighbors continues. This neighborhood is amazing. We are being well-taken care of. Spoiled even. I am so thankful.

'

Extended Family

{Aunt Suzi & Uncle Darrel}

We were so fortunate to get to spend extra time with my Aunt Suzi and Uncle Darrel this past August. Suzi miraculously found a doctor in Murray, UT who could treat her severe back pain she has suffered with for years as a result of a car accident. The catch?  She had to have 3 weeks of consecutive treatments done twice a day, 7 hours from her home in Las Vegas.  Suzi was a trooper and bounced between Melody's and I's guestrooms for that time and it was so fun having her and Uncle Darrel around!  Cade and Savvy got to know their great aunt, uncle and my cousins really well during that time. Kyle was out of town for much of that time so it was nice having an extra ear and pair of hands.

Uncle Darrel, "the baby whisperer",  taking a snooze with Ruby.

Puppies {that belong to other people!}

Cade and Sav have been begging for a puppy for about a year now. Ever since Cici, Grandma's dog came to visit us when we were living in Lindon, they've been in love with the idea of having a dog.  I will forever say no, but forever gladly let them play with other people's doggies anytime. When we went to Boise to visit last month, Cade and Sav got to play with Gma and Gpa Hunter's new litter of puppies. Cade put one in this little bucket right before we were heading home and said, "Okay, Mom. I'm all ready and packed up!"

The joy on this cute face is almost enough to convince me to get a puppy. Almost. But not quite. :)

Two working feet.

I miss it. Oh how I miss it. WALKING! Running. Climbing stairs instead of crawling up them. How I took it for granted.  I like to think this has given me a new perspective on life and the lives of others who deal with this on a permanent basis.  I am really looking forward to being back on my feet again. Until then, I'll reminisce of the good ol' days....

surfing lessons. Hawaii. December 2008

Wipeout! Boogy boarding at it's finest.  Hawaii. December 2008.

Nature's Beauty

{Flowers}

So  beautiful. Needs no explanation.

Holland, Michigan

Holland Michigan during the Tulip Festival

{Snow}
I loved how the snow stayed and stayed and stayed in Chicago. So pretty, so much fun! And SO much better than cold rain.

{Beaches  All of Kauai}
I think I'm missing Hawaii a lot. Probably should go back soon.

Well, that's a start....there's still plenty more, but that will have to do for now.

Family Home Evening: Gardening 101

This past summer I really wished we had been able to plant a garden, but it just didn't work out.   I've personally never planted one, so I've been anxious to have Kyle show me the ropes. He grew up gardening as well as canning but for some reason, he avoids both of those tasks at all costs. He doesn't have very fond memories of them growing up. He seems to associate gardening and canning with broken child labor laws or something like that.  I happen to believe that's exactly where he developed his great work ethic, so, I thought we could start small, and perhaps by next Spring, he'll be in the mood, and we can teach our own children the fine art reaping what you sow.  And now that it's cold and snowy what better time to start?!  For FHE this week, that's what we decided to do. We finally set up the Aerogarden -- a brilliant little indoor herb garden you don't have to weed or water that grows incredibly fast.  We've had it waiting in its box for nearly 2 years. A gift from Don, Kyle's Dad, for Kyle's 28th birthday.  Don, by the way, is the master gardener in the Woodbury family. I am excited to have some fresh herbs to cook with-- by the time I can walk again, they should be ready! The kids really enjoyed putting it together.  After assembling the Aerogarden, we read a few stories from the Friend magazine...

...and then closed the night with a dance party. Didn't get very good pictures of the dance party-- the children are just pink and green blurs....

It was a good night. I hope these are the memories my kids have of their childhood.

My Theory of Productivity:

For months and months Kyle has been begging and pleading with me to organize that craft room downstairs, as well as the office.  One of my many quirks is I don't like starting a job I can't finish.  I would always respond the same way to his requests-- "Give me 3 uninterrupted hours and I'll gladly do it." I know many organization queens out there recommend if you don't have a good chunk of time, to break up a large task into several 15-minute smaller tasks.  I'm an all-or-nothing girl and don't really like that method. 

For instance-- the office-- that place was a DISASTER!  We had listed the Subaru for sale and we needed the title as well as all the maintenance papers on hand for when it sold. I have a binder where I keep all of our car and house paperwork. For some reason, the title was not there.  One night I spent hours going through every single file looking for the blasted title.  Did not find it. It made me crazy because I pride myself in having good files and having kept them in tact over the last several moves.  The room ended up looking like this: 

photo courtesy of Savannah playing with my phone.

Papers EVERYWHERE in various stacks and piles....oh I cringe just remembering it.   The one goal that inadvertently was accomplished while I was sifting through files to find the title papers,  was the purging of unnecessary files. I have a tendency to keep papers that don't need to be kept. While it's all good and nice that they have a file, it's still a burden knowing you are holding onto unnecessary documents.  So, out came dozens upon dozens of documents.  The next day for Family Home Evening, we went up to the mountains to have a bonfire and got rid of them. It was a lovely time. I think we'll make it a tradition every year-- BONFIRE!

Back to the office--- that night I had run out of time to "put it back together" so to speak and there it stayed in it's totally disorganized state for several more days.  At that point I began avoiding the room  like a bad ex-boyfriend. I only went in there when absolutely necessary and promptly would leave and try and erase from memory what I remembered from my time in there. 

In the mean time, Kyle learns that we never had the title. When he registered the car here in Utah, they sent us a new title--but to our old address. Which of course we never got. I'll be honest-- I was irritated.

So there stayed the papers. The chaos.  My achilles heel. The kids, however, got really light on their feet and became experts at hopping around the mess.

Fast forward a week. By this time we made the decision for me to go ahead and get the surgery done on my feet and Kyle was packing up a suitcase to leave to go hunting. He would be back early Sunday morning, and surgery was scheduled for Monday morning. The thought of having chaos in my home for 3 more months drove me nuts.  I would have to make time to organize the house despite being on my own or else I would go insane sitting in bed for weeks and weeks just thinking about the big mess.

I didn't leave the house for 4 days -- with the exception of taking Sav to preschool and picking her up on Thursday and then Saturday going to DI.  The weather was beautiful on Wednesday and Thursday, so I thought it best to start with the garage. Ruby, the gem that she is, took amazing naps in the mornings. The kids played really well together -- it was amazing all the things they "re-discoverered" once the garage was organized and everything had a home.  In four days,   the garage got cleaned out and organized, my craft room (or nook as I now call it) got unpacked and organized,  the storage area under the stairs got cleaned out and, you guessed it--- organized!  And finally the utility room storage got cleaned out and organized.

As you know, my favorite part of all of this was going to DI and getting rid of boxes upon boxes of items. It was great!

Then Kyle came home. I am sure he was happy with all that was accomplished, but a teensy bit disappointed that the office remained in it's "been hit by a tornado-looking" condition. 

Time was running out.

At 10:28pm Sunday, the internal battle began--- do I start the office or go to bed?  I finally reasoned I'd be MUCH better off taking full advantage of my two working feet and I began the office.  At 5:22am Monday I finished it, along with several loads of laundry, the dishes, and paying bills...and hopped in the shower . I literally felt 64 lbs of stress melt off my shoulders.

So my personal  theory of Productivity goes like this: If you want something done, schedule surgery for yourself which will put you out of commission for several weeks.

It worked on me like a charm.  I could dwell on the depressing notion that this theory indicates I must not be a very good self-starter and that I'm lacking the necessary self-discipline that all "good" homemakers require.  Honestly, it's too bad I couldn't get to these necessary chores before this.  And while I could say, "better late than never" I still wonder... why couldn't I have gotten these things done? I mean, seriously, what is my deal? 

Fortunately the productivity theory is still working in full force in my life.  Since Monday, I've been able to get a lot of other things done that I've been wanting to, but just haven't had the time (or is it really haven't "made" the time?) to sit down and do them. I'm doing a lot of sitting down lately, so it's been rather easy to come up with things to keep me busy.

Ruby's birth announcement  was designed and ordered. After 2 (or 3?) years of not sending out Christmas cards, I got those designed and ordered, too!  Online Christmas shopping has begun. I finally set up an account with Mint.com {thanks for the recommendation, Hannah! I love it!} and have categorized every single transaction.  Most importantly, I've had lots of time to snuggle with Ruby and savor my time with her.  I've also taken videos of the kids, something I haven't done in a while. We even got Ruby's first real giggles on video. That was awesome.

I've decided crutches are a pain. Hopping is my preferred method of transportation. My armpits are sore, but my balance is quite good.

My milk production took a dive, which scared me at first and is a foreign concept to me-- I didn't know what was going on. I thought something was wrong with my pump, or I wasn't eating enough calories -- "Sweetie, you have to give me more Oreos than that!"  I called my sister and she said not to worry--  it was normal. My body was just expending its energy healing my body and my milk would come back in about 10 days. So we've been dipping into the milk stash in the freezer. 

It is a bit difficult depending on Kyle for my meals.  In the mornings he is busy getting the kids ready and Cade off to school and sometimes forgets to bring me food (oh I know, rough life. Pity me I might actually have to go downstairs and get my own food!).  When you're sitting around you have a lot more time to think about being hungry. Usually when I'm running around food is something I quickly forget about. I feel bad requesting food to eat all the time when he's busy doing everything else around the house. Also, he is rationing my Oreos. He thinks a package should last us 2 weeks. The injustice!  Saturday night I really wanted some and he said, "Dear, the children must eat. Are you going to starve them?" (referring to our milk that was almost gone.  If I had any more Oreos then I'd also take the last of the milk....)  Oatmeal for breakfast would not hurt the kids for a day or two....

I've mostly gotten around fine with the exception of one day--  I  must have taken my meds without food and after feeding and changing Ruby and setting her down to play on her blanket, I suddenly became dizzy, tired and weak and decided to head to bed. I ended up "taking a rest" en route in the middle of the hallway on the floor.  I am not sure how long I was there.  The beeping of the garbage trucks woke me up and instinctively I hollered out to Kyle to make sure he took out the garbage. Then he found me he carried me to bed. He's so sweet.  In fact, I hear him vacuuming as we speak. Awwwwwwwwwwwww.

Well,  I suppose I've rambled enough.  Here's to another productive, bed-ridden day..... Stay tuned for our September and October updates and lots of photos of our little gem. Here's one for starters...

Bye-bye Bunions!

The last photo of my left foot pre-op. Wearing very comfy sweats from Old Navy. Highly recommend them.

MONDAY

5:45 am-- Sweet little sis Rebecca shows up to chauffeur me to the surgery center.  I'm running up and down the stairs frantically trying to find my brush. Can't find it. A comb will have to do. Hair is still wet from my shower.  I'm still running on some high energy reserves that I must have obtained from my Oreo fix the night before.  I didn't go to sleep. Had too much to do. Definitely think I took advantage of my last 24 hours of being on my feet to the fullest extent possible. It was painful leaving the house with things I still wanted to do--- put more laundry away, tidy up my bedroom....all those things would just take me a few minutes more to do....after today they'd take me like an hour.

5:55 am -- Driving to the surgery center. Simple directions, but it was still dark so it took me a while before I spotted the building with HUGE signs.

6:05 am -- sitting in the waiting room with my little sis. Take one last picture of my feet before I go under the knife, then notice a fellow ward member sitting in the waiting room.His son was in an accident-- riding his scooter and a car stopped abruptly in front of him. Boy ran into the car, and rolled on top of it. He was in getting knee surgery.  Brother Hall asked what I was in for. Turns out Brother Hall had bunion surgery not long ago and said it was the best thing he ever did. How comforting for the last person to talk to before surgery be someone who had gotten the same thing done-- and not regret it. 

Rebecca hanging out in the waiting room with me. So sweet.

6:30ish am-- changed into the adorable gown, slippers and shower cap looking thing.  Nurse asks several questions regarding my health history and then instructs me to write "YES" in big letters on the foot that the doctor is going to perform surgery on.  Nice. Anything to prevent a mistake! She scrubs my foot, wraps it up, and then I meet the anesthesiologist.  He explains that once his medicine (I thought it was interesting how he referred it to "his"-- like another anesthesiologist would have given me something else not as good or something) enters my IV, I will have a funny taste in my mouth and in 5 seconds, I'll be out. I will wake up when it's all over.  I asked how long I should wait before nursing my baby. 24 hours is the rule, but he said it may be wise to pump and keep the milk and give it to my baby when she's especially fussy.  He was totally serious. My little sister was there to witness it. I got a good laugh out of it. Rebecca, correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't he say his wife did that?  Anyway, it was funny. My doctor stopped by, made sure I was okay with everything, asked what color cast I wanted {I told him to surprise me} and went to scrub in.  I bid my farewells to Rebecca. {Thanks again Gooser for the moral support!}

7:00 am  Got wheeled into the surgery room. It was just like the movies-- turning corners of sterile white walls in a very maze-like manner and then arriving in a room where there was music jamming and all the doctors and nurses were chatting about their personal lives. I asked who got to pick the radio station and my doctor said, "Yeah, who picked this one anyway?  Can someone change it? This stuff is horrible!" Then my mouth got this funny taste in it....and everything went black.

It was the deepest sleep I have ever had. I can see how one could develop a tendency to enjoy going under the knife just to be sedated. I felt amazing when I woke up. My foot was still completely numb, just now wrapped in a green cast. I heard Kyle say "She probably won't wake up for another 8 hours-- she didn't go to bed last night."  My throat was a little sore and the nurse asked if I was hungry.  I was famished. She named some things they had and vanilla pudding sounded pretty good. Kyle grumbled something under his breath--- along the lines of "..they'll charge us like 10 bucks for it and you don't even like vanilla pudding...."  Glad to know that even in dire circumstances my husband still holds true to his miser tendencies.  He fed me the pudding and then I heard Brother Hall next door. His son was recovering in the curtain next to mine. He sounded like he was in pain. I felt bad for the guy. I personally felt great. Everyone should do this! I thought to myself. I called out to him to say hello and I think we had a conversation, but I don't remember much of what we said.  I do recall Kyle seizing the moment and asking if he could go hunting in South Dakota again next year.  I was gushing with love and appreciation for him-- of course he could go hunting!  

The nurses made sure I had crutches and knew how to use them before sending me on my way. I don't remember how we got to the car. A wheelchair? I think Kyle lifted me in.  The next few hours are a bit hazy, but totally painless.  My goal was to stay completely on top of my meds so no pain would be felt. Rebecca stayed and hung out for a little while and did things around the house. Her little Bailey is a hoot. She is SO full of personality and is particular about the funniest things. She can laugh and whine in the same breath. That takes serious talent!

Later Melody stopped by. The kids played while we talked. At least I think we talked. Pretty sure. I gave her her almost 3 month-late birthday present --- a gift certificate to the dry-cleaners. I know, so sweet, personal and thoughtful. :)  Name one woman you know who enjoys ironing? (Okay, Kelli-- your mom-- but she's the only one I know!)  See?  Totally great gift. And Melody actually irons. I complain about it, but I rarely do it.  She does it, like several hours each week. I like to think I gave her about 8 hours back of her life she would have spent ironing.

We were brought dinner and the kids were very sweet about my foot. Ruby and I hung out in bed.  I read, slept, fed and changed Ruby.  It is nice to have one child I can care for in my disabled state!

My parents called that evening and by then I was much more alert. Dad was curious as to how in the heck last Sunday when we were all gathered for dinner that there was no mention of surgery, and then a week later, he hears his daughter is laid up for 6 weeks.   Things happen rather quickly around here. I would have to say, that's the way to do it. If I had more time to talk myself out of this, I probably would.

Day one Post-op? No complaints, no regrets!

It's a rather nice shade of green, wouldn't you agree?

Rubies, Play-do, and my nook

Hi again!  At first I started wondering what this regular posting of the blog was all about. And then I recalled that Kyle is out of town. Makes sense. I'm lacking in adult conversation a bit, so the blogosphere provides an ear instead. :)

I'm beginning to feel better about the surgery. Not that I'm excited about it or anything, but I'm not quite so anxious. My aunt reminded me that I can ride those driving shopping carts in stores with a completely justified reason! So, the heck with learning the art of walking with crutches--- I want a Jazzy scooter!

Thankfully, Ruby has been taking great naps between the time I get Cade off to school and about 2pm, so I have been able to attack to the "problem areas" of the house that have been hanging over me since we moved in.  That has helped my anxiety a lot.  At the current moment,  the house is a total disaster, because everything is still in the process of getting revamped, but it doesn't irritate me because I have the vision.  The few storage areas we do have are being sifted through and reorganized in a much more sensible manner so that the space is maximized.  I'm quite looking forward to tomorrow's big DI drop off. I always feel a literal weight off my shoulders when I get rid of things.  It's a wonderful feeling!

My craft room now resembles a craft room and I'm quite excited about it. I don't really plan on crafting down there any time soon, and in fact, I think I need to come up with a new name for the place because as you all know I'm no crafter.  But, it is the place were simple sewing projects will be completed, cards written, presents wrapped, packages assembled. So what kind of place is that?  Maybe I'll just call it "Michelle's Nook."  In any case, it just feels good to have my own place where all of those things I do use on a regular basis now have a home. And no one will take them! It's a narrow room, like an enclosed hallway, and the kids are so used to it being full of boxes and bins, they won't even think to go exploring for craft supplies in there. I like to think it was a plan all along to make sure my treasure trove stays safe by allowing it to be a catch-all for all these months. :) 

Savvy did go a little crazy today because we didn't "go anywhere" or have anything "fun" on the agenda. I turned on music for her to dance to, but she didn't want to dance unless I was dancing with her.  Once I got out the Play-do she was fine, though. Thank heavens for Play-do! I think I've adopted a new motto: "Don't sweat the small stuff. Play-do comes out of the carpet when it dries."  

I have failed to post pics of our little Rubik's Cube. Here is darling Ruby when she was about 10 days old. :)  My incredibly talented friend Laurel knitted her this amazing human sock/sack with a matching hat.  She knitted it with colors resembling a ruby. It's the cutest thing seeing her so content and snuggled up in it.  It's also a brilliant creation.  It's hard to re-swaddle her in a blanket when we are outside and can't lay her down flat, and it has been the perfect solution for spectator sports. She wore it at my high school homecoming game, and we put her in it at a BYU soccer game. Wouldn't it be great if we all had our own personal sack to keep warm and comfy in?  It will be a sad day when Ruby grows out of this.

Liz T. holding our "rubified" Ruby. August 31, 2010.