"Do what it Takes"

Renee and her Giggles!!!!

2011-01-05T18:11:00.002-06:00

Monday Afternoon and Renee and Mommy having a blast!

"Do What It Takes"

2010-11-14T07:43:00.004-06:00

Equipment

By Edgar A. Guest

Figure it out for yourself, my lad,

You've all that the greatest of men have had,

Two arms, two hands, two legs, two eyes

And a brain to use if you would be wise.

With this equipment they all began,

So start for the top and say, "I can."

Look them over, the wise and great
They take their food from a common plate,
And similar knives and forks they use,
With similar laces they tie their shoes.
The world considers them brave and smart,
But you've all they had when they made their start.

You can triumph and come to skill,

You can be great if you only will.

You're well equipped for what fight you choose,

You have legs and arms and a brain to use,

And the man who has risen great deeds to do

Began his life with no more than you.

You are the handicap you must face,

You are the one who must choose your place,

You must say where you want to go,

How much you will study the truth to know.

God has equipped you for life, but He

Lets you decide what you want to be.

Courage must come from the soul within,

The man must furnish the will to win.

So figure it out for yourself, my lad.

You were born with all that the great have had,

With your equipment they all began,

Get hold of yourself and say: "I can."

Renee's 1st Birthday Party!

2010-07-04T10:44:00.004-05:00

What a great day with friends, family and lots of cake!

Celebrating Renee's first pirthday in Southern Louisiana!

Renee is 1

2010-07-02T15:41:00.005-05:00

Has it been a year all ready?

It is hard to believe that this little bundle of joy, and I mean little, came into this world and changed my life forever! You always hear people say "I can't remember life before my children" and I always thought that what is so great about it! They cost money, POOP, and cry! NOW....... I can't remember what my life was about before my daughter! Yes she cost money, but it is so fun to buy her new things, for her learning and development and to dress her up in! I do dress her better than myself! She does POOP a lot, and it is especially messy now with her new teeth trying to peek through! And to answer every one's question of "Does she EVER cry?" YES she does, but it doesn't happen very often and it is usually cause she is hungry, in pain of some sorts, or is very tired!

But what people don't tell you, is how children warm your hearts! I didn't sleep very well last night, cause I was anticipating waking up with her and singing Happy Birthday to her! I've been thinking back through the year and all of the things she went through! It is amazing, and she has come so far! HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY LOVE BUG!

Fun in the sun!

2010-06-02T07:32:00.005-05:00

The weather down here has been pretty hot and humid! Renee is used to being inside with me doing house work, but we took a day off this past weekend and played outside in her little blow up pool! I knew that she would love it, because she loves to play in the bathtub.

Her first expression of touching that cool water was priceless. Her toes went in, and then it was a halt! every muscle in her body tensed up, which I could feel as I'm holding this 20 pound little girl in the pool with only her toes touching the water! Then I lowered her in. She was so confused, because she saw her bath toys and the water was not as warm as a bath! but once she got used to it, she was all over in it! Loving every minute of it, and even tyring to dirty it up by leaning over the side to pull some grass into the pool! We had a good time, and thank you Jenny for her first swimsuit! A 2T and it fits her perfect as a 10 month old. I had to put a barrette in the back to keep the straps tighter, but it couldn't have been more perfect!

Wisker Giggles!!

2010-05-29T12:56:00.001-05:00

The Corah Roller Coaster

2010-05-28T18:59:00.001-05:00

The Decorah Roller coaster!!!!!

Corah is such a good girl!!!! wish I had a ton of her around, because she would defnetily be a great babysitter!

She is taking over the HOUSE!

2010-05-18T17:01:00.003-05:00

by: Corah

Well , you all know that my little sister is getting bigger and takes all of the attention away from me and Jack and we now have to stay outside more often! It isn't that bad, but she is now all over us or following us around the house and we have no privacy! I love her, but my skin only stretches so far. I'm just getting to old for this. I hope everyone enjoys the pictures and video!!!!

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T11:29:00.005-05:00

I hope that everyone has a wonderful day!!!
Thank you for teaching me how to be the best mother I can be to my beautiful little girl!!!
You all know who you are!!!

XOXO

My High Chair!!!

2010-05-01T14:02:00.004-05:00

Christmas 2009, Grandma Jo and Grandpa Steve, from Minnesota bought this beautiful high chair. It was packaged and sent down to us not long after we left there by plane. It has been sitting in our kitchen for quite a while and we hadn't gotten around to use it, because we need to add some straps for Renee's legs and body, so she doesn't slip out. Well we decided to use it without the straps, so she learns that she needs to eat in the kitchen, and she has been great!

She does so well, as long as we are shoveling the food into her mouth!!! As you can tell she is not in want in the food department. We visited the Occupational Therapist for the last time April 19th. We would visit Miss Coleen to check on Renee's overall development and we all decided that she has caught up enough for us not to see her again. She gave me a lot of great pointers on feeding Renee and when and what to start her on for table foods. Coleen also said that we could use her adjusted age, 2 months younger than her real age, for up to 2 years, if need be. But, Renee is growing so fast and really moving along well, I don't think we will have to.

We love trying to get to the eggs on the tray!!!!

She is now crawling all over the house and chasing me and the dogs. It is so fun to watch her discover new things and to get into new things. She is definitely learning the word NO!!!

She crawled!!!!!!

2010-04-12T17:53:00.006-05:00

My first day to come home early with Renee, and she crawled, and is now pooped!!!! Between her sniffles and her new found movements she is out like a light, and so is her daddy!!!!

Thought I'd share that information with all of you and some new pictures of her in her Easter dress and with her horse Drew!!!

How amazing it is!!!

2010-03-23T21:50:00.006-05:00

How amazing it is.....

to create a beautiful baby!

to walk through a journey of worry and pain!

to bring her home and share her with the rest of the world!

to watch her grow and learn!

to watch her discover and recover!

to watch her love and be loved!

to be a Mother!

Today, Renee was weighed in at 18 lbs. 2 oz. and a length of 17 1/2 inches! She is growing like a weed. I've been working on a photo album through Shutterfly of her first year of life! I've sat here and cried to see her with all of those wires on and I've sat here and laughed at her corky little ways! She has come so far, I mean we as a family have come so far in the past 2 years! Trials, pain, loss of faith, but NOW when you look at her, everything bad is gone and the good only remains. I only hope now that I can learn from my Mom, Aunt, Sisters and of course my students about how to be the best MOM to Renee I can!!! here are some of her best moments in the past couple of months that I haven't been able to share!

Love you all and have a great day!

WHO DAT!

2010-02-07T22:07:00.006-06:00

Well, I've been staying true to my roots, until tonight, and it was a little bit of being forced, but it was well worth it! I was born and raised in Northern Minnesota and now live in Southern Louisiana. So the Vikings vs. Saints was a big night and sorry to say Minnesota lost........ but I guess I've got it pretty good now that I got to cheer for another team close to the heart, since My husbands family are HUGE Saints fans, I had to cheer and since my husband bought me a Saints t-shirt.......

So off to Mike and Toot's (Cotina) house. Gumbo cooking, decorations going up, and beers starting to crack open. The game was awesome, being down 0 to 10 at one point, I knew that the Saints are a second half team, so I knew they would come out strong. I just figured that the game would have been closer, but right after the interception and touch down for the Saints, the

"WHO DAT" song was being played on repeat and I would be all right if I never here that song again, but what a victory for the Saints. First time in the Super Bowl and Taking the whole thing!!!!! GO SAINTS!

Grandparent's Day

2010-01-27T21:07:00.004-06:00

It is Catholic Schools week, at the school I teach and coach at! Each day of the week we honor a different person for Catholic School's week and today was Grandparent's Day!!! I have been so busy and so caught up in the politics and work at school, that I forgot to really be grateful and thankful for the people in my life this week!

One of my 7th graders asked me today,"Coach Freddie, are your grandparents coming to the assembly?" I took and deep breathe and said, "Well Ali, they are with us here everyday!" Right there I took the time to remember the past when I would walk into the farm house and yell, "HELLO GORGEOUS!" And it never failed that my Grandmother would tell me to get my eyes checked. Or when Grandpa would ACCIDENTALLY turn one of the dice over when he thought we weren't looking just to get himself a few more points! I shared some of my very fond memories with my student Ali and then thought about how this conversation will happen when Renee gets to be this age (12) and I know that both grandparents will be there for her.

So a big thank you to all of you Grandparents out there, we love you and appreciate everything you do!!!!

Motivation

2010-01-20T14:47:00.003-06:00

I just joined my sister's blog group of "Being Accountable". I had a beautiful little girl in July and had been on Bed rest since Feb 2009 up until I had her! See, I ate better during the pregnancy than I do now. The only motivation I had at that time was to keep my beautiful baby and myself healthy for this pregnancy since we had lost one not too long before! Now I can use my sister, who is 1500 miles away, as motivation to move and eat better!

I titled my blog motivation, because I have a lack of it at this moment! No motivation to do my job at my best, and no motivation to help myself feel better about the way I look. This in turn hurts my students and my players. I am a coach and Basketball is the longest season I know. I have been trying and trying to motivate my players to work hard, play hard and be successful. See, I didn't say win, because that is not what we need, well we need some wins, but In order for my girls to feel successful right now we need to just play hard ALL 4 quarters.

I've questioned if they are getting everything they need as far as fundamentals.......my assistant has been going over fundamentals since last June, if we are running the correct plays or if they are too hard........ but it is the basic plays that we can add more too, or if they just don't want to work for me! I lost a lot of my confidence in my coaching ability since I was out for so long, but I need some Motivation to get that back!

So any ideas on how to Motivate 16 very different young ladies to play their hardest for the last 7 games would be great!

BLOW OUT!!!!

2010-01-02T13:30:00.006-06:00

Everyone keeps telling me about the blow outs when the kids start teething! I didn't really know what to think, but now I do!!! It has been 2 mornings in a row where my cute little girl has blown out her diaper, from the side, front and the back. I was fortunate enough to be gone for the first one and left Floyd to tend to her diaper and dirty clothes, but not this morning!

I was on the computer getting my practice plans ready for this morning's basketball practice when all I hear from the other room is "BABY". So I got up to see the problem. Floyd had her in her room and stripped down ready to change the diaper, but didn't quite know what to do with her and her clothes!!!! He suggested to just put her in the tub and bather her AGAIN! Great idea, but we definitely have to soak her clothes in some water and wash them right away!!!

Well as soon as Renee heard "BATH" a big grin came across her face and she was so excited! She better not get any ideas and start pooing everywhere just to take a bath, but you never know!

Is there anything else anyone can warn us about? I'll definitely take people more seriously and be prepared the best I can!

My first Christmas!

2009-12-21T15:38:00.004-06:00

by, Renee

Jesus' birthday is coming up, that's what mommy says! We celebrated Christmas at Grandma and Grandpa's here in Louisiana yesterday and I got presents. Mommy will have to explain to me why I get presents when it is Jesus' birthday, but I'll take 'em!!!!!Down south, it is a tradition to shoot off fire works for Christmas and I got to experience it. I jumped once, but Mommy had me so bundled up that I fell asleep through most of them. The lights were pretty as far as I can remember! We had fun at Grandma Sandra and Grandpa Hoa's house! I got to play with all of my aunts and uncles and cousins.

My new cousin Trae'lyn

My next Christmas adventure is flying in an airplane to Minnesota. Mommy has told me lots of stories about living up there. She says it is really cold, but it can't be that bad. knowing her, she will have me so bundled up I might be able to see!!!!! Well I can't wait to see and meet everyone up north!

2 DAYS

My car is home!

2009-12-15T13:44:00.006-06:00

This is what our house looks like after a hard rain!!!!! Is it a house boat? Maybe we need pontoons!!!!!

Tuesday Dec. 8th at 12:30 am I woke up, because I knew that something was wrong. I checked on my baby girl and my husband, who falls asleep in his chair every night before coming to bed, then I checked outside. See it had been raining since Sunday night and when we get a lot of rain our property floods, and I don't mean SOME water in the yard, 2 feet of water in our yard our house looks like a house boat in the middle of a pond! Anyway, I looked out the back door and the water was up to the 2nd step and I knew that my car had water in it all ready.

After waking my husband up, I went out and tried to catch things before they started to float away. My husband's rubber boots had all ready disappeared, but mine were floating by the house. The water was about 2 inches from my knees, past the bottom of my car doors and almost to the step sides of the company truck. We decided to get our daughter out of there and went across the road to the neighbors house, which had a little standing water in the yard. They welcomed us in with open arms and my husband started working on getting the car out of the water.

Luckily it started fine, but there was about 8 inches of water INSIDE the car. Soaked in the seats and carpet and damaged a module for the electric system that was located under the carpet. Thankfully that was all that happened. The house is fine and we may have lost a few things that were under the water in our shed, but we have our family and our belongings in the house!!!! Just got to remember that it could always be worse!!!!!

If anyone knows how to go about lifting a house and property, could you please give us an idea on where to start?

Happy Holidays!

The Holidays

2009-12-01T21:08:00.005-06:00

So many new things and this year will be the most fun, because it is all new for our little girl Renee. She is 5 months old tomorrow and we celebrated her first Thanksgiving with her Grandparents here in Louisiana and other relatives, and we will be heading to Northern Minnesota for Christmas.

Thanksgiving is one of my most favorite holidays, because of the great food. Since I've been with my husband, I have spent Thanksgiving with his family and it is a different type of food down here. To tell you the truth, I LOVE IT. I eat raw and grilled oysters, stuffed pork chops, rice (instead of potatoes) and gravy, and many other foods. Floyd's daddy gets the best liquor out and we celebrate all of the things we are thankful for!!!! Renee didn't get to taste the foods this year, but she definitely celebrated with us, napped with us and laughed with us!!!!!

One thing I have wanted to do since she was born was take a picture of her and her Great Grandpa. He was 99 on July 2nd and Renee was born. He is the cutest little Vietnamese man and he knows "Hi, and thank you" in English. He also knows that I will always give him a hug and a kiss on the cheek.

Happy Holidays to all and we are so looking forward to coming up north for Christmas!

The Holidays

2009-11-20T06:05:00.002-06:00

Thanksgiving and Christmas are 2 of my most favorite Holidays. It is a great time to reflect on things that you are grateful for, things that have made you the person you are, and people you know you can't live without! These are also some of the most stressful times of year, especially for a coach!!!!!

Every year, my school, or I, host the Thanksgiving Girl's Basketball Tournament and I keep hoping that every year the preparation and stressing about everything getting done diminishes even a smidgen. BUT, it doesn't! Concession stand, hospitality room, gate workers, score keeper, book person, along with coaching your own team and many other things to get started! A person tries so hard to get everything done WELL before the event is to take place, but there is always something that I always forget about. Then I have to deal with people not wanting to volunteer their time, a couple of hours, on their days off! I totally understand, but as a coach we teach, coach and are still asked to work when we are off. So if anyone sees this and is a classroom teacher, please, PLEASE, help us coaches out and volunteer when we need some assistance!!!!!

Well, I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving and be thankful for what you have!

Love and God Bless

It has been a while!

2009-09-07T06:12:00.005-05:00

by Cora

It has been a while since I've been on to write. There have been so many things to write about, but i haven't been in the mood. My little sister came home, you would think that would be reason enough, but she makes all of these noises and she kind of smells, so I've had this migrane and have been keeping my distance.

I'm starting to get used to her, but my house will never be the same! Mom playes with Jack and I , but she is very busy with my little sister. She tells me that she needs a lot of attention, because she can't do anything for herself, but I can't wait until she can, so I can sit with mom in the big chair again! I miss those days!

Rooming in!

2009-08-12T10:29:00.005-05:00

by Jessica

Well we got the call at 12:30 on the 11th from the nurse that we will be rooming in tonight!!! Meaning we will be staying at the hospital, our first night alone with our little girl and the nurses on hand if we need them!

Nothing too different than what I'm used to, except wanting to check on her every time she squeaks or grunts to make sure that she is breathing!

Floyd fell asleep soon after getting into the room and him taking his time with our daughter.

Renee sleeps in between all of her feedings and so far has been very receptive to us! I've noticed her smiling as she wakes up to our voices and I know she is ready to come home! And yes Mom that is the quilt you made her!!!!

The doctor is sending her home with an apnea monitor, because her lunges just don't take enough air in when she is sleeping! It is very loud, so I will definitely hear it when I'm sleeping!

Now we are just waiting for the doctor to do rounds and discharge us! The nurses are all excited that we get to take her home, and many have stopped by to say good bye to Renee!

Sister is finally coming home!

2009-08-09T23:31:00.003-05:00

by Corah

Mom came home tonight from the hospital beaming with joy!!!! She told us that we would be meeting our sister this week. They took the feeding tube out and are now feeding her with the bottle or by Mom nursing her! So no wires or tape on her face anymore!

We are so excited and can't wait to meet her! Jack I'm sure will just lick her all the time! He is a clean freak, I think that is called OCD. He is either licking his paws cause he is bored, but when there is a baby around, his tongue does not stop and that is all he wants to do is lick them.

I can't wait to meet her!

So many wonderful feelings!

2009-07-22T06:10:00.007-05:00

by Jessica

Renee is doing better everyday! 4 lbs 4.2 oz. Moving to an open crib as we speak. She had a few apnea episodes, but still a lot fewer than normal! But isn't she beautiful!

Feelings of NERVOUSNESS

Renee will be coming home soon and I don't know if I have everything I need!!!!!!!! I think I do, but doing this for the first time is scary and exciting all at the same time! She is so fragile and hopefully she won't be coming home with a monitor! But if we do, I'll be wide awake and ready for anything, I hope!

Feelings of SADNESS

Grandma Jo and Nanny Leah will be leaving us this morning. Their stay was short, but they were here for such big steps. Makes me sad sometimes to think of how far away they are, but technology today is amazing and I know Grandma Jo will be getting a web cam here soon! Sadness also because I have to leave this beautiful little girl everyday. I know she is in good hands!

Feelings of JOY

I'M A MOM!!!!!

What else can I say!!!

God Works in Mysterious Ways!!!!!

2009-07-15T10:43:00.003-05:00

by Cora

Mom always says that God works in mysterious ways. Either by the love of family, that is including animals, or just by people doing good deeds!!!!!! Mom and Dad have been through a lot in the past year, and Mom would say she has gotten through all of it because of everyone around her!!!!

First when Mom miscarried Drew, my little brother! Ironic enough, my Aunt Leah, Uncle Steve and Cousin Amanda were coming to visit for a week in October and God must have known that Mom would need some family at that time! They arrived a day before everything happened. Mom always says that it happened for a reason and that God knew that she needed her big sister in that time of grieving! It also brought them closer, making it an easy decision, when Mom and Dad were going to have their next baby, that Aunt Leah would become that God Mother, or Nanny here in Louisiana!

Next was when Mom found out she was pregnant again and that she would have to be on a long bed rest!!!! 6 months! Grandma Jo came down to help Mom and Dad out!!!!! 2 different times!!!! Thank God she is retired!!!!

During that time of bed rest and many hospital visits and stays, many friends came to help, and visit when Mom was bored and down in the dumps!!!!

Now, we have a little sister and she is still pretty sick, so she has to stay in the hospital!!!!! Grandma Sandra has been here to help Mom with her recovery and drive her around when she hasn't been able too.

Mom has been worried about a lot of things now with Renee being born 2 months early, if she will be able to afford to stay home with Renee for a few weeks when they release her from NICU, and God answered Mom's prayers again!!!! My Great Uncle and Aunt have been so generous and caring to help out and Mom has been in tears the past 2 days, because of their generosity.

She is overwhelmed and so so thankful for the love of family and friends!!! This letter is a big thank you to all of you who have been there for our family!!!! Mom and Dad are so appreciative and grateful, as am I and Jack to have you in our lives!!!!!! I wish I could BARK it from the roof tops, but Mom won't let me get up there and I don't really like to bark, so I'll just write it here!!!!!!

THANK YOU

Mom's homecoming!

2009-07-09T15:36:00.002-05:00

by Cora

MOM IS HOME!!!!!!!

I can't believe it. She is finally home, and it seems like she is home for good, but it is kinds of different. She is getting around really slowly, and she seems to be getting out of the chair and actually doing some house work. She keeps telling me that we will soon be meeting our new sister, but I thought she had to keep still for another 2 months. Jack keeps saying Mom is getting skinnier, but she still has a belly. Looks like something should be in there. She won't let me sit with her right now though. Says she is sore and can't have anything by her belly.

I just wish she could tell me what is going on, but it is nice to have her home safe and sound, so I can keep an eye on her!

Happy Birthday Renee Arvilla (July 2nd)

2009-07-03T07:29:00.004-05:00

by Jessica

Where to start........ Well I'll pick up where I left off from last week.

We were sent home on Sunday morning. Cora and Jack were so excited for me to be home, they couldn't contain themselves. I think Cora ran into the door of her room trying to get to me when I called her name. Poor baby, missed her Mommy. Well I was home for a few hours, and then started bleeding again! Can't catch a break. Third strike, or time going to the hospital, and I'm in for the long hall. Little did we know!

Everything was going well, I was stable with a few high blood pressures here and there, but nothing alarming until Wednesday evening. Amanda, Red, and Rhodes were coming over for a big dinner. Spaghetti and meatballs with lemon merague pie!!!!! MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM So we were looking forward to a nice dinner with friends!

I took my showerat 3 and my blood pressure is a little high, since I've been up and about, but we took it again 30 min.s later and it was higher yet 177/96, then again 15 min.s later it was 197/107. SCARY! So they took action fast and put me on some magnesium sulfate and gave me a catheder. Not very comfortable, but before they put that in, I had to go to the bathroom and empty my bowls. Being so nervous, they emptied quickly.

Doctor came in and told us that we were going to have a baby tomorrow July 2nd!!!!!!! Here she is long anticipated and awaiting her arrival!!!!! Renee Arvilla Frederick born 9:30am, July 2nd, weighing 3 pounds 13 ounces and is 16 and 3/4 inches long!

More Complications

2009-06-27T14:51:00.003-05:00

by Jessica

Well, where to start. Wednesday, June 24th was a normal day and turning out to be a great evening. Floyd made plans to have a close friend and his fiance over for grilling and to watch the LSU baseball team beat Texas Longhorns for the NCAA championship. Food was smelling great, Lacie and I were have a great conversation, and I took a potty break and then it all went wrong.

Started bleeding and called the hospital right away. Floyd started packing and Lacie and Reggie helped by cleaning up the food and stuff. Well 20 minutes passed and no call from the on call doctor, so I called again and they transfered me to the nurses station. They supposedly told me to go to New Iberia emergency room, but I missed that, so we headed to Lafayette, 30 mins away. I started getting nervous because I had heard the nurse telling someone in the background that I was going to New Iberia, so called again on the way and that nurse told me to come to Lafayette. So now I'm starting to worry about Renee and making sure that I feel her move.

Got to the hospital and started checking in and I was looking at the pictures on the bulletin board and thinking this woman needs to hurry up!!!!!! So I kept looking and trying really hard to feel Renee move, but then while searching pictures I noticed a red cardinal sitting on top of the bulletin board and I knew she was okay!!!! Grandma is everywhere!

So it is Saturday and I'm here until tomorrow or Monday. Bleeding has stopped and no more contractions, but I had high blood pressure when I got there, so they tested me for preeclampsia and I have a mild case of that now too!!!!! WHAT ELSE? So now we will be visiting the Dr. 2 times per week and hope that the placenta previa moves more and the preeclamsia doesn't get any worse. I will definitely have her the beginning of Aug though, and if she is healthy, then I'm okay with that! So Grandpa Steve, be ready for a great birthday present!!!

I've had a few visitors and Floyd has stayed every night. I think Grandpa is with me too, because I happen to pick the flying pig when I play monopoly on pogo game network, and most of the time we win. Really big too! Grandpa would be here playing games to keep me occupied and laughing.

Thank you all for your prayers and thoughts, and only 5 to 6 more weeks of boredom, and I do hope it is that long!!!!!

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-21T11:47:00.006-05:00

by Jessica

Happy Father's Day to all of the wonderful men in my life!!!!

One very special Father's Day to my husband, a father to be. I'm so excited and can't wait to see him interact with our baby girl. As I watch him interact with our friends' kids, I see how much joy it gives him, and with me being so emotional and pregnant right now, I could just cry with Joy, cause I KNOW he is going to be the best father he can to our little Renee.

Vernie....... Thank you for always being there and cheering me on! I don't ever remember a time that you missed a volleyball or a basketball game, and I know there are so many pig shows and horse shows that you were at. I know who my biggest fans are!!!! I love you tons.

Now Dad....... You are sometimes a man of few words, but you always new what to say and when to say it!!! He kept his mouth clean when scolding me on the discovery of my belly-button ring, which was outed by my 3 year old niece. Or the time when we were traveling to the tree nursery for work and both singing "Take this job and Shove It". Next one was the last thing he said to me when I was packed and ready to get on the road for Texas, "I'm not worried about your moving, I'm worried about you and spending Money", is what he said. Now, he is making sure that I'm keeping still and in my chair so he can see his new grand daughter, Renee!

Thank you for everything Dad, Vern and Floyd, you are going to be the best, I just know it!

Love you all!

A Big THANK YOU!

2009-06-18T10:17:00.002-05:00

by Cora

I know Mom would want me to write this, so here it goes. This is a big THANK YOU to all that have helped our family through this tough time!!!! Mom has been on bed rest since Feb 16th and lately it has been strict. After her incident and almost going into premature labor or having to have an emergency c-section, the doctor said no more going anywhere, or doing house work!!!! She is able to use the bathroom, thank God!

Well Grandma Jo came to help out when Mom first went on bed rest in Feb. and was a great big help. She made sure that Mom didn't do much of anything, and she also found great deals with some of our neighbors ladies at garage sales. Grandma stayed with us for about 2 months. After she left, Mom had many friends come over and Grandma Sandra came to help as well. Aunt Holly would come over often and chauffer Mom around to get groceries and run errands for school, or even just go to the bank and post office. Rami has been here 2 times and has helped mom with errands as well as doing Mom's toe nails, since she really can't reach her toes anymore!!!! Amanda brings Jack's girlfriend, Tina, over quite often to visit and let us all play. Uncle Peter also comes over to give us our baths!

After Mom's hospital visits the first week of June, Dad and Mom decided to ask Grandma Jo to come back if she could. It was quite a scare and now Mom is doing really well with me and Jack's help keeping her butt in the chair. Grandma Sandra has been over often to visit and help around the house, and Grandma Jo just left this morning. Dad comes home during lunch to be with Mom, and our neighbor lady Miss Barbara comes over often to visit and help out when ever Mom needs it!!!

So a big thank you to all of you who have been here. I apologize for those that I have missed. You are greatly appreciated and we all love you!!!

From the Frederick house hold!!!!

To the Love of my life!!!!

2009-06-17T07:35:00.005-05:00

Dear Floyd,

We have been married, 3 years today. Someone told me recently that in those short, feels like forever sometimes, 3 years we have been through things that people never go through in a lifetime !!!!

Your deployment to Africa was the first obstacle..... You had to go about a month after the wedding and were gone a total of 9 months. People go through this everyday, and I always thought it could be worse!!!! With my friends, family and your family, we made it and actually realized the love we had could make it through anything!!!!

Next was the loss of our little boy!!! We were so fortunate to start talking about getting pregnant and BAM, it happened so fast I think we both went HOLY CRAP! (that is in good terms) And just like that he was taken from us. No warning! But we worked together, again with the support of family and friends and made it through.

Now, probably our biggest challenge, being pregnant again with many complications! Our little girl will be blessed with our love and support, and I can't wait!

Through all of this I have come to learn how much I depend on you, and for me that is hard to say, because I am so independent! You are my rock and I knew it on our first date, that you were the perfect one for me!!!! I love you so much and can't wait to pass up Grandma and Grandpa Nilson's 67 years!!!!!

Yours always,

Jessica

Our Doctor visit!

2009-06-15T14:41:00.002-05:00

by Cora

Today Grandma Jo and Uncle Peter took Jack and I to the doctor! We were so excited when mom asked us if we wanted to go for a ride. I thought at first.....well you can't take us Mom, but duh she wasn't. Mom gave Grandma Jo a list of things for the doctor to check on us. Jack weighs 61 pounds....TUBBY, and I weigh 84 pounds, which is less than last year!!! Yeah, you know how a girl's gotta watch her weight. They stuck that thing up our butts and stuff in our ears, but we just had to sit there.

Oh yeah, while in the waiting room, two people were gawking over Jack and how pretty he was. They couldn't believe he had 2 different colored eyes either! That's all right, I've had my share of gawking and Mom loves on me enough, I don't need the satisfaction of strangers telling me I'm beautiful.

Anyway, the list. Jack chews on his back paws and Mom wanted the doctor to check that out! Doctor said he has a fetish and nothing was wrong!!! My list, on the other hand, was a bit longer. The doctor checked my hips, and Grandma Jo was calling Mom. I couldn't figure out why she had to call her, but then I remembered when Mom was talking to the doctor about my episode or seizure. Well I over heard him tell her that I have a heart murmur. Then I was worried about Mom, because that is not something she needs to be thinking about right now. He also told her that I shouldn't be running around and getting over heated until they can really take a look at my heart and see if it is really that bad. So NO FRISBEE!!!!! That makes me sad. Dad just bought me some new ones!!! Oh yeah and I have an infection on my paw, nothing to worry about, Mom just has to put this spray stuff on it!

So now I have to lay low with Mom until I get my x-ray and blood work done! Hopefully Mom doesn't get sick of me laying with her all of the time!

Mom's appointment!!!!!

2009-06-13T10:06:00.003-05:00

by Cora

"Everything looks good", Mom says as she walks into the door and as her hip gives out! She is just not having the best pregnancy, but she would disagree, because she loves to sit in her chair or in bed at night and just watch Renee roll around and move! Mom has a bad back from a previous back injury when she was a little girl, so her hip used to do that before she got pregnant! She is ready for a good massage and chiropractic visit! But all that matters to her and us right now is that Baby Renee is doing great and Mom isn't in a lot of pain! Seems that the kidney stones either dissolved or she passed them as sand and couldn't catch them in the strainer!

Grandma Jo brought some Minnesota Twins baseball caps for Dr. Hill. He is a big baseball fan and asks mom about baseball all of the time. I think Mom just looks up what is going on before she goes in to the doctor's office just to help make small talk with him! But Grandma brought them and Dr. Hill loved them.

Baby Renee's' heart rate was ranging in the 130s and 140s yesterday and Mom's belly is definitely getting bigger! We are happy that everything is going great, now we can all relax for a while and definitely keep Mom in her chair!!!!!

I wish THEY could read my mind!!!!

2009-06-12T08:30:00.012-05:00

by Cora

Well yesterday, what a day..... of really no news and big events!!!! Mom has been giving me these ear drops, but I just don't like them, but when she brings the treats out I'll lay on one side, to get the drops and then I'll switch to the other side!!!!! It's not that bad, I guess, but yesterday, I wanted the ice in her glass!!!!!! Mom couldn't figure it out. She would lift her glass to drink and I could hear that cold ice sliding down the glass to Mom's mouth. MMMMMMM...... there is something about this Ice too that is so tasty. It is sweet! Must be because Mom is having sweet sun tea that Grandma Jo made the other day! Finally she gets what I want, I don't care about the Pupperoni treats, or the Greenies right now, all I want is that piece of ice!!!!!

We did get some company last night, and Jack was in seventh heaven as his little girls friend came to play with him. Jack even let Tina chew on his rawhide!!!! He never shares with me!!!! It bugs me so much though, because they just chase each other around the living room furniture .........and I always seem to be in the way, so I went and layed in the big chair with Mom. Baby Renee wouldn't let me fall asleep. She kept kicking me in the head! so I moved down in the chair, now this chair is big, cause I'm a big dog and Grandma called me a horse. Well i got a little restless and my hips have been hurting me, so I wanted to get up, but I didn't want to put weight on my back legs, just let them rest for a little while.

Well I understand that Mom knows me better than anyone else does. She just can't get me what I need right now, so I don't bug her anymore when I'm hungry, thirsty or have to go outside. So I bug Grandma Jo, Amanda (Mom's friend), or Dad, but they REALLY don't know my looks!!!!

I can't wait for Mom to get better, so she can help me more!!!!!

Funny Stories!

2009-06-10T09:37:00.003-05:00

By Cora

Well as most of you know Mom and Grandma Jo watched a really funny movie last night. "New In Town". I think it just reminded them of funny things they! Well it had to be funny, because I'm sure the neighbors could hear Grandma Jo laughing out loud. Mom told me stories of how she would be on the bench for basketball games and Grandma would start laughing and everyone on the bench would look at Mom. Grandma was on the other side of a really big gym!!!!!

Anyway, they've been telling funny stories and laughing this morning and I thought I'd tell a funny story about Mom.

Mom has the same problem as Grandma Jo, or so she says, with holding on to her car keys when she leaves her car and locks it. So yeah she locks her keys in her car often. She did it when she was here at home and come to find out that her extra house key was in the locked car too, so Mom had to break into the house. That isn't the first time she has had to break into the house either......

While Mom and I were in Texas, before she was married to Dad, Mom flushed her keys down a toilet!!!!! I know, how in the hell do you do that? Anyway, Mom and a couple of friends were driving around looking for rental houses so Mom and Dad could get a house together! They had to stop at a gas station and Mom had to go pee! Well it was a new gas sation with the new toilelts that suck like a airplane toilet! Mom was going to flush and had her keys in her had. While she was flushing the keys fell into the toilet and she tried.... "NOOOOOO"....to grab them. It was her car key, romote unlock, and house key that went down the into the sewer. As mom left the bathroom, I'm sure as embarased and red as could be, she waited for everyone to leave the store, but had her friend Stacey stay back. Once everyone was gone, she asked the cashier if they had a plunger, cause she had flushed her keys down the toilet. Well they had one, but it was ripped! Those darn toilets did a number on the plunger!!!! Needless to say, Mom, Stacey and Rami were stuck at the gas station!

Mom called our neighbor, who happened to be home. He came a got Mom and brought her to the house. Now remember, the house keys were on the key ring in the sewer too! Mom broke into the garage door and into the house and got her last set of car keys! The Neighbor took her back and Rami, Stacey and Mom were off again shopping for rental homes. Mom did leave the cashier her name and number and said, "Just in case SOMETHING comes up! No pun intended!"

Well Mom's older sister Leah gave her a nice gag gift for christmas.....a floatable key ring!!!!

What is next!

2009-06-06T10:10:00.003-05:00

By Cora

What else does Mom have to go through? I knew something was going on with her and I was trying to tell her, but she just can't read my mind! Yesterday was her 30th birthday and her phone was ringing off the hook and she was receiving text messages and facebook messages, but I could tell Mom was hurting. Jack and I sat with her, trying to comfort her, but the pain wasn't going away. She wouldn't tell anyone she was in pain either. Grandma Jo gave her a back rub and that didn't seem to help. Mom laid on the floor with a ball under her back to relieve some pressure and even iced her back thinking it was muscle pain from being uncomfortable, but that didn't work either. Mom used the bathroom and came out with her back and abdomen hurting so bad she could barely stand. I was so scared........

Mom called her doctor and Dad and they headed to the hospital again! They packed everything this time, just in case she had to stay again. Lucky for Jack and I, Mom came home with Dad and Grandma Jo. They found out that she has kidney stones. Mom has been in so much pain, but it wasn't affecting Baby Renee, so that was a big relief. Now Mom has to wait to pass the stones, and has some pain medicine.

Grandma Jo got and ice cream cake and we had a few visitors for Mom's birthday!

We are so glad that Mom is home again, and we'll keep her in her chair and comfortable!

We miss our Momma

2009-06-02T05:11:00.003-05:00

by Cora and Jack

Jack asked me, "Why the sad face"? So I told him something must be wrong for Mom and Dad to leave us this early in the morning without letting us out to potty and puting us in our room! They both looked kind of scared and I've never seen Dad get out of bed that fast before. Mom usually has to shake him and really makes sure he is awake so he remembers what is going on!

"Cora let me write!"

Thank you, she always hogs the computer. Mom and Dad don't know, but I can open this kennel and use the computer all day..... But thank God I know how to close it properly too. Cora must have been right, because they didn't come home. Well Mom didn't anyway. Grandma and Grandpa Tran and Uncle P came over to let us out and that was after 12 noon. Grandpa Tran can't believe how well we listen. He told us to go use (that is... go to the bathroom Cajun style) and of course we had to go, we hadn't been outside since Sunday night. Anyway..... "Cora leave me alone!!!"

Okay Cora here I put Jack back in his kennel cause sounds like Mom and Dad just pulled in!!! I think it is around 6:00pm. Just turned out to be Dad, but I know he'll give us the scoop on Mom.

He didn't seem as nervous as he did this morning, but he gave a lot of info. Mom has to stay in the hospital for awhile, because they don't want Baby Renee to come this early. Mom was bleeding quite a bit and they found some contractions when she got the hospital and gave her lots of drugs to get rid of the contractions and also a steroid to speed up the development of Renee's little lungs. Dad did say that Mom and Baby Renee are doing great, so that was nice to here and that the bleeding had slowed down and maybe even stopped, and contractions were gone. Then Mom called Dad and gave him a list of things to bring to her, so I guess she is going to be there a while. Oh, yeah Dad said probably for a few days, to make sure everything is okay. Mom Made sure that Dad fed us before he left too!!! I miss her all ready. So I guess we are stuck in our room for the next couple of days. Maybe Grandma Jo will come stay with us again!! I don't know, but as far as I know. Mom and Baby Renee are doing very well and I know that they are in good hands. I just wish I could be there with her to make sure she wasn't sad or scared!!!!

We love you Mom and miss you! Come home soon, but make sure you and Baby Renee are safe!

Love you, Cora and Jack

Baby Renee's room!

2009-05-25T13:00:00.008-05:00

by Cora

Well.....it is done. Maybe a some deep cleaning of the carpet to be done when Grandma Jo and Aunt Leah come in July, but with the help of many, the room is put together!

Mom is really excited and now can maybe relax and worry about school stuff. Jack and I love the room, but we know that we can only go in there when Mom tells us to! I told her I needed some pictures, so she let us go in there today, but I think that might be the only time!!! So here is a tour of the baby's room! Hope you all enjoy and can't wait until my little sister arrives!!!!

Memories that last forever!

2009-05-23T17:33:00.004-05:00

by Cora and Jack's Mom

I sometimes ask myself if I made the right decision moving away from where I grew up. Today, that sticks in my mind. The farm that I once new in Northern Minnesota changed very drastically today. A house that I ran to from the bus will no longer be there. My mom was still at work and my dad was out in the barn doing chores or grinding feed with Grandpa; Grandma in the house making carmel rolls or canning vegetables from the garden. I knew I always had something to do rather than my homework, so of course I was going over there!

It has been empty for a little over a year now, and coming home to visit was hard while the farm house was empty. Knowing how hard it is for me, I can't imagine how hard it is for those that grew up living in it. I lived across the driveway, but I guess it is the many trips into the cellar, giving Prudance a bath in the big tub upstairs, spending the night when my cousins were in town, and all of the family gatherings that grew and grew through the years in that house.

Maybe it is the fact that I have a lot of time to think right now being on bed rest, but missing family in times like this seems appropriate. Many people ask me why I moved so far away, but I've always been one to drag Mom and Dad around to see different things. Dad told me before I left, "I'm not worried about you moving away, but I am worried about you and spending money"! Maybe that is what all Dad's are worried about with their little girls. Mom taught me one very important lesson for my travels and that is " I have never met a stranger"! Whether that is safe or not, it has never steered me wrong. I can say I have friends and family all over the world and I'm very grateful for that. And don't get me wrong...... if I wouldn't have left, I wouldn't have met my wonderful husband and would not be sitting here all day waiting for this baby to grow and be a big part of our lives. So I tell everyone who asks.... I miss my family so very much, but I'm here because of them, and they made me a strong and independent woman!

So thank you for all of the memories and many more to come!!!

In memory of the Nilson farm house!

Projects?

2009-05-20T13:57:00.008-05:00

by Cora

Mom woke up this morning saying that she was going to have a great day!!!!! She talked about starting a new project! Which one I have no idea. Mom and Dad are almost done with the crib, so I think she feels good after doing a little something and accomplishing something, that she is ready to tackle a new project. So many choices though.

Mom's friend from Houston sends here little things here and there and here are a few. Some I think are to be funny, because they won't take Mom long at all, and another one!!! Well let's hope mom remembers how to count!

That's okay, because Mom has a project for her friend when they come to visit. Hopefully they are coming this weekend. I'm excited to see her again, but I'm more excited, because she is bringing my boyfriend this time!!!! OOH LA LA!

Well Grandma Jo, you'd be proud, because she has moved the cross-stitching towel from the back of her chair!!!! That's a start I guess. She even talked about getting the keyboard out to play for Baby Renee. Speaking of her..... here are some of Mom and Dad's pictures of her!! The full body shot is at 20 weeks and the head shot is at 25 weeks.

She is going to be my beautiful little sister!! I can't wait!!! Well love you all!

End of another year!

2009-05-18T17:04:00.004-05:00

by Cora

You all know by now that my mom has been on bed rest for about 3 months now. This time of year usually means it is the beginning to the end of a school year for her. She usually is really busy at this time getting grades in the computer and making sure that the kids are all doing what they need to do to pass PE. I think it is funny to say that, "PASS PE". Everyone should pass PE right. isn't that one of the easiest classes to pass? Well that is what everyone tells me.

This year it is a little different for my mom since she has missed most of her school year. She teaches 6 - 8 grade girl's PE and is the Head Girl's Basketball Coach. I know it has been hard for Mom to be away from her kids too. She considers them her kids, because she is with them so much and they come and ask her for advice, and are always looking for guidance. That hasn't stopped since she has been home, they email her to check up on her and some of her basketball players have been over to visit. She even gets little notes on tests and other things that they turn in for her to grade. Mom's long term sub stops by very often to give Mom the grades for the week and she always brings over her daughter who is one of the students. So they let the kids know how Mom is doing.

Mom received an email today from a mother of one of her students that made Mom cry, so I know she misses them and they miss her too.

I'd put some pictures in here, but Mom wouldn't let me, because she doesn't have permission from the parents of the students!!!!!

Baby news!!!!

2009-05-14T13:03:00.003-05:00

by Cora

Mom went to the doctor today, and we had to stay in our room for most of the day. Jack and I just aren't used to that anymore. Mom keeps saying that we are going to hate it when she goes back to work. "WELL DON'T GO BACK TO WORK". That's what I have to say about that.

Anyway, Mom said that Renee was not happy with the lady prodding and probing her with the picture thingy. Renee kicked the thing and moved right when she was recording the heart rate which is 145 beats per min. That is good, so Mom says. Renee also weighs 1 pound 10 ounces. She is getting bigger, but I just thought Mom was eating a lot more to fill her tummy up so she felt full. Mom is GETTING BIG! I don't tell her that though. I don't like it when people come over and tell me that I'm getting bigger. I'm 49 for god sakes, you don't tell any woman past the age of 20 that she is getting bigger. That happened to me on Sunday. We went to visit some friends and one lady said "Cora's gotten bigger"! Mom didn't defend me or anything. I actually don't think she knew what to say!

Anyway, the doctor said Mom has to go back in on the 4th of June. The Placenta seems to be moving, but it isn't totally out of the clear yet. She had full previa before and now it is just marginal. The next appointment is the day before Mom's birthday, maybe Dad will take Mom out for a nice lunch. That is if he remembers when her birthday is!!!!! I'll have to remind him and give him subtle hints here and there since she is turning 30 and can't celebrate the way she would like to. Well Maybe I won't remind him, because we will have to be stuck in the room even longer!!! That would suck!

A beautiful Mother's Day morning!

2009-05-10T07:23:00.007-05:00

We LOVE our Mom!!
by Cora

Jack doesn't seem to like to go outside so early in the mornings anymore. Maybe it is because of old age, or because of his new collar!!!! But either way, he misses out on the beautiful sun rises and singing of the cardinal.

Mom snuck out with me this morning to take some pictures. I've been bugging her to take some new ones for the blog, and I've told her of the sun rise and her grandmother's, Gorgeous, singing. I know she has to get her sleep, but she misses out quite often. This morning was different though. Dad had to get up early for drill and Mom made sure he got up and was on time!!! She poured her cup of coffee and Came outside with me. Well she snuck out and caught me basking in the morning sun!

I wish I could do more for Mom today. I can only love her and keep her company, and I hope that is enough. She always says it is, but I just hope so. Jack is trying to snuggle up with her right now, but she wants the chair to herself.

Mom always says that she is who she is because of the wonderful women that are around her!! I keep asking her who and the first one she says is her mom, Grandma Jo! I guess, I know that Hooch really loves Grandma Jo, because that is his mom of course, but I understand him because he is a dog. Mom always talks about what Grandma Jo has done for her and her sisters. Grandma Jo is always there for them and has such a great big heart! She cares so much for everyone she meets. Mom told me that Grandma Jo always says " We never meet strangers"! Maybe that is why we have so many friends around the world. Thank you Grandma Jo for bringing my Mom into this world, so she could find us!!!!!

Next one is Aunt Georgia.

She is actually my great aunt, but we'll just call her Aunt Georgia. Aunt Georgia has been a great friend and mother to Mom and her sisters. She went to every game, choir and band concert, horse and pig show, dance recital, and pageant Mom has ever been in. Aunt Georgia is always the one BEHIND the cameras. She has also helped Mom and Dad with all of the moves and travels they have been on. Aunt Georgia is one of the most giving and unselfish women I know! She has taken in so many dogs and cats in her time too and all us pooches say WOOF (THANK YOU).

Well there are so many other women out there that have made a difference in my mom's life, and I could write a book of all of the stories that Mom tells me. I just want to say love you Mom and all of you Mom's that have made my Mom who she is today!!!!

My best friends!!!

2009-05-09T07:32:00.006-05:00

by Jack

I love when my girls come to visit.

Christy and Katie just moved to a new house farther away from us, but we get to see them every once in a while. They used to live like 5 minutes away and we got to see them more often, but with their move it doesn't happen as much.

Katie and Cora

Jack and Christy

They came over 2 days in a row. I was so excited. They love on Cora and I and we get to chase them around the house, well until Mom yells at us for knocking stuff off of the coffee table. They had their yearly dance recital and their mom, Aunt Dawn, didn't want to drive 30 miles out and then come back, so it was nice for her to come visit too. I know my mom enjoyed her company. They have become very good friends, almost like sisters. They always help each other out and I know Mom appreciates all of her support and advise that Aunt Dawn has given her through the Drew thing and the new upcoming baby.

Aunt Dawn is pregnant with her third girl and due in June. 3 girls! WOW, I don't know how Uncle Ben does it. I know Dad and I are going to have to stick together when sister Renee arrives.

Well Happy Mother's Day and God Bless!

A new perspective

2009-05-07T14:16:00.003-05:00

by Cora

Nobody said it would be easy. My Mom on bed rest and worried about the baby. I think Jack and I have the best part of this situation and I'm going to take a new perspective on it like my Mom is.

Mom has been getting up every morning with a positive attitude. She is in a better mood, and actually getting things done for school and basketball. I absolutely love having her home. I could stare at her all day, and Jack and I fight to sit next to her in the chair or even on the floor at her feet. But I got to sit by her last night.

She will play with us and pay attention to us everyday. Before it was not that way. Mom and Dad both have to work and they both have demanding jobs. Dad sometimes has to leave town for a few days to a week. Not like before, but he still has to go check on some jobs out of town or even the state. Dad's hours are pretty normal though and when he get home he has his routine of kissing Mom, and then petting me and Jack.

Mom on the other hand works weird hours. She coached volleyball and basketball this past year and was very busy. There is a time when they both overlap too and Mom was working 14 plus hours a day, and that is when we lost Drew. She sometimes thinks that her working so much was one of the reasons that Drew didn't make it. Maybe that is why she has to stay home with us. Anyway, she is really excited cause the next school year they are really working with her and the fact that Mom will have a new baby. She does have more responsibilities, but she will be able to be home more often. She will not be coaching volleyball anymore, which I know was a hard decision for her, since volleyball is her love, but I think it is the best decision she's made besides taking me home.

So Grandma Jo..... don't worry cause we are taking good care of Mom. She is staying in her chair for the most part. We are also keeping her happy, especially now that Jack is staying in the yard!

Not much new here!

2009-05-04T13:07:00.004-05:00

by Cora

Sorry I haven't written in a while. Jack hasn't run off, so there is nothing to write about there. Mom hasn't gone to the doctor lately, so really nothing there either.

Mom has been having a hard time lately with the bed rest. She says she is getting this thing called nesting too. I think that means she needs to clean or something. But she can't do it and it is killing her. She's been really emotional lately too. Maybe that is just the fact that she is pregnant, that's what Dad says anyway. She's just not herself. Summer time is her time off and to do things she loves to do. But I keep reminding her that she has my sister in her and she needs to keep her safe for a little while longer. I keep Mom in her chair when she lets me sit with her.

Jack has been staying in the yard. That collar of his is really SHOCKING! HA HA. But I like having him around more. We like to play and chase each other around the house and Mom and Dad egg us on quite a bit. Then they laugh at us. I'm glad we can entertain them. When we are inside, we just sleep near Mom and make sure she stays put! Mom has been picking on Jack lately. She tickles him under his arm and he kicks her. Then looks at her funny.

I also have a couple of cats for siblings. They both stay outside since Mom is pregnant, but I think they like it. This picture below is TJ (Tiger Junior). He is kind of funny and thinks he is hot stuff. That box he is laying in is a bit small for him, but he lays in it anyway. He likes boxes. He'll lay in Dad's beer boxes and Dad will push him around like he is on a carnival ride. He seems to enjoy it.

Like I said not much going on here. Mom heads to the doctor next week and gets to see my little sister on the doctor's TV again. Hopefully she will bring some pictures back and some good news that her placenta has moved away from her cervix. I want to see how big she is getting. Mom is 24 weeks along now, so over half way. Hopefully she can stay sane for all of us a little longer!!!!

Jack has a new collar!

2009-04-28T20:38:00.002-05:00

by Cora

As you all know, Jack hasn't been the greatest son to Mom and Dad since Mom has been home on bed rest. He's been to neighbors numerous times to crash their dog parties, and Mom had to go get him a couple of miles away. Well I think Mom and Dad took some action.

Dad has been working hard outside the past few nights. Last night we sat and watched him with this machine that dug a trench. Tonight we watched him put this yellow wire in the trench. Then...... when Mom brought us outside they put this new collar on Jack. I was kind of upset at first, because I didn't get one, but now after all is said and done, I'm GLAD I don't have one like that. Anyway, Dad took us to the back by the big ditch and Jack's collar started to beep! Then all of a sudden, Jack jumped about 5 feet into the air and back toward the house. We walked the rest of the yard, but nothing was happening and Mom and Dad looked confused. They took the collar off and Dad messed with it, then they put it back on and put him on the leash.

We walked to the front, where Jack would have crossed the road, and the beeping came back. mom backed him up, and then praised him. Then they went to the next spot, and Mom took him past the beeping. Jack cried and cried. She backed him up and made him sit then praised him for backing up. They did that a few more times around the yard, then we got to go inside and Jack wasn't happy. He layed by Mom's chair and wouldn't move. I asked what had happened, and he just didn't want to talk about it. But Mom gave us both a greenie and I couldn't be more happy. Maybe he will tell me tomorrow what had happened.

Oh, by the way, thank you for the prayers and I feel a lot better. Don't know what had happened, but I'm doing great.

We had a scare!

2009-04-26T08:53:00.003-05:00

by Jack

I know Cora usually writes in here, but she is really tired today. She scared us all last night.

Mom and Dad brought us over to our cousin's, Mike and Cotina's, new property. They spent the day with them on Friday moving their trailer. We weren't able to go on Friday, because there was too much commotion, and Mom said something about me getting into trouble!!! I don't know what she is talking about ;).

Well, they took us last night and we got to roam around. Later, while the adults were eating and Cora and I were laying in the living room, Mike came in through the front and Cora went to meet him, but she couldn't get up. She lost her balance and tried again and couldn't get to her feet. She fell down and her legs went stiff and she was shaking. Mom rushed over to help her lay down. They put a blanket over her head and Mom layed there with her until she came out of it. They think maybe she had a seizure. Well, Mom held her for a little while and I wanted to help, so I layed on Mom's feet. I just didn't want to get in the way.

Cora was a little out of it for a while, couldn't find her balance. Mom said she was going to call the vet on Monday so she might have to take us in, but hopefully just Cora. I don't mind the vet, but they stick me with those needles, and it doesn't feel too good. Well please pray that everything is all right with my sister. We were all scared last night, but I think she will be okay. I'm just going to let her rest today. NO WRESTLING FOR CORA, my orders!

Mardi Gras!!!

2009-04-23T13:25:00.007-05:00

by Cora

Not much has been going on here in Louisiana. Mom and Dad went to the doctor this morning and everything seems to be going great with the baby. She just has to keep doing what she is doing, which is NOTHING! I like having her home with us though!!!

So, without a lot of news, I figured I'd write about a big holiday that is celebrated here in Louisiana, Mardi Gras. Jack and I were able to celebrate it this year with Mom, Dad and Grandma Jo. Well, we celebrated Fat Tuesday. Fat Tuesday is held on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, and it is when everyone goes nuts, before they give things up for lent!!!!! It isn't as crazy here in New Iberia as it is in New Orleans though.

When we lived in Katy, Texas, Mom and some friends spent a few nights in New Orleans and met up with some of their college rugby buddies. They seemed to have a good time, but when they got back, they were really tired and wiped out. Mom didn't have any pictures from that trip, because she supposedly lost the camera. Yeah, right. I don't think she wanted to share those pictures with anyone!!!!!

This year Grandma Jo was here and got to experience some of the festivities. Mom and Dad took her to a costume contest just a couple of miles down the road. From the looks of the pictures, there were some scary and beautiful costumes. On Fat Tuesday the took us to a parade close by in Grand Marais. We sat in the back of the truck with Mom and Grandma. I didn't like the drums and loud noises, but I caught a lot of beads and I didn't even have to show anything!!!!! LOL They just thought I was cute. Grandma Jo got a lot of beads too. I think she enjoyed the parade.

Next year, Mom said she would take us all to Houma, Louisiana. They have the big floats like in New Orleans, but it is more family oriented and a little safer there!!!!!

Jack's big adventure.

2009-04-21T19:34:00.008-05:00

by Cora

Jack went on a big adventure this morning. I warned him. I always do, but he just can't keep his nose off the ground and cannot stop visiting with people and animals. This lady was walking on our road and he decided to follow her home, but how was I supposed to get to Mom to tell her before he got to far off. I hate to bark, so that was out of the question. I sat at the back door and hoped that Mom was getting up soon to get some water or go to the bathroom, but her phone rang and she was heading to the door. By the look on her face it wasn't good.

Jack told me all about it when he got home....... Mom had to take the car, and that wasn't good. SHE ISN'T SUPPOSED TO DRIVE, and he was that far away!!!!!!! Jack was pretty scared when he got home in the house. So here was his story... " I HAD to follow that lady, Cora. I just knew she would lead me to those other dogs over the field. OK... I guess I didn't know she was going to take me over there, but I thought it would be fun. Well I ended up at her house and I was just sniffin' around and then this man and woman came out from another house. They had a little Yorkie and I guess she thought I was cute. She was going crazy in their house and wanted to come and meet me. Anyway, I knew it had to be bad when the man was on the phone and explaining what I looked like and said where he lived. It was either Mom, or Dad. Thank God it was Mom, because she is a silent scolder, but she isn't supposed to be driving. It makes me nervous when she is quiet like that, because I could see her face, but Dad...... he would have given me an ear full. The lady was really nice, and she talked to Mom for a little while. Then.... we started home. I could see her eyes in the rear view mirror and she was angry. Now here I am in the kennel, and who knows how long I'll be here today."

After he told me his story, I got a greenie and I got to sit with Mom in her chair all morning. I think she was rewarding me for staying home. I really don't care about those people and those dogs, I have everything I need right here. Mom and Dad are great and I know they love us, so why would I leave.

Well Dad came home from work and Mom reminded him that Jack wouldn't remember what he did today and he's been punished enough. So, we got this new/old John Deere lawn mower for free from one of Dad's co-workers, but it needs a little work.

Dad was checking it out, so Jack thought well maybe I can help, and Jack was checking it out too.

Then I thought, maybe I can help too.

Well all Dad was doing was finding somewhere to put the rope on it and drag it out of the way.

Go figure, but I think Jack and I have some good ideas to fix it. Maybe he will let us help when he decides to fix it.

I love my Marine Dad!!!

2009-04-20T14:45:00.016-05:00

by Cora

I've been through a lot with my Mom. I've been there for her every time, and Jack really has too, but he was a little bit of a hassle until he realized that he belonged with us. Mom and Dad decided to get married before he was to leave for his deployment to Africa. They were planning a Catholic wedding in Jeanerette in Sept. of 2006, but Mom got a call from Dad at work, and they moved the deployment up, so it changed everything. She was upset, but I think what upset her more is that he was leaving earlier. Well with plans changing there were so many options to get the wedding over with before he left, Justice of the Peace in Louisiana, or Texas. Mom knew her friends weren't going to let it be just a wedding, but then our uncle Steve had the idea of having the wedding in Minnesota at the Nilson family reunion. That was what they decided June 17th, 2006. It was a long trip, but so worth it. We became one big happy family.

Dad left for training in North Carolina at the beginning of July. Mom kept herself busy with sports camps and open gyms and stuff, so it wasn't too bad. Once school had started, mom got to take a little vacation to visit Dad before he left for Africa and she showed me tons of pictures. Kind of a little honeymoon for them.

While Dad was in Africa, Mom and I did a lot together. Our friends in Katy, Texas were wonderful and very helpful. We went to visit people and dogs as much as we could.

New Years in Texas!

Dad told Mom that I was the only one she could kiss for new years

How lucky am I!!

We also just sat in the back yard and Mom played with Jack and me as she sat in her hammock and had some wine.

Not the best picture of me, but that was all I could find!

We also went to Minnesota and Louisiana to visit family, and Mom took us every time she went somewhere. We were great at road trips!!!!!

Christmas in Minnesota!

So we support all of our troops and Mom understands what many families are going through. She would tell you to be strong and when you get to see them get off that plain when they arrive home, it is the best feeling in the world. Something you will never forget!!!

Baby Drew Van

2009-04-18T07:20:00.011-05:00

by Cora

It is a rainy day today, so Jack and I are stuck inside and I thought today should be the day to tell you about our little brother Drew. He is up in heaven with Great Grandma Arvilla.

Well Mom and Dad were so excited in July when they found out they were having their first baby. They had been talking about having a baby, Mom isn't a spring chicken anymore and getting to the age of higher risk pregnancies. Everything was going great. We were even getting company in the fall, Mom's oldest sister and her family, except the dogs, were coming to visit for the first time, so Mom was so excited.

Mom is always busy with school and sports in the fall. She coaches volleyball and basketball and they overlap, so she was working 14 plus hours a day sometimes. Mom went to the doctor on a routine visit and everything seemed to be fine, the babies heart beat was 160 beats per minute, and her belly was getting bigger. Estimation: 15 weeks along. Mom started having trouble the day after her appointment, but it didn't worry her too much. That Friday night, it started to get worse, and Mom and Dad started to get a little worried. They headed to the Hospital Sat. morning. Mom was having contractions, but there was nothing they could do at 15 weeks. Mom said that the emergency doctor was not very helpful, but one of the nurses told her to come back if it gets worse.

Saturday was the day, Mom was so excited, but couldn't do much, because the contractions came back early afternoon before my aunt and uncle arrived. Grandma and Grandpa had planned a meal for all of us that evening. While we all went to their house, Mom was getting worse. We went home early and Mom called the hospital. After talking with the on-call doctor, she decided she wanted to sleep in her own bed. 5 a.m. Sunday, October 12th, Mom woke up and they left for the hospital. I was so worried, because she hadn't come home. My Aunt and Uncle were there to take care of Jack and I which was nice, and I remember when Dad called my Aunt Leah. I could tell it wasn't good by the tone in her voice. Mom had lost our little brother Drew Van Frederick at 11:15 a.m. The doctor's said that Mom was 17 weeks by the size of him and she lost him because she has an incompetent cervix. That is where her cervix isn't strong enough to hold a baby full term. He was 6 inches long, and 3 ounces.

Mom came home on Monday, and I was so happy to see her, but she was really sad. So I made sure that I stayed by her and let her cry on my shoulders and just hug me all she needed. I did all I could to help her feel better. You know, the thing about all of this is that Drew helped Mom realize that she can carry a baby, and that now they know what to do to prevent anything like this from happening. Drew also did something special, he let Mom and Aunt Leah get to know each other better. They are 12 years apart in age, and Aunt Leah was married and out of the house before Mom could even remember a lot. Mom told me that Leah had baby-sat her quite a bit and did a lot for her, but she was so little that she doesn't remember a lot. Anyway, Mom was more than grateful that Aunt Leah was the one here to hold her hand and comfort her from the Nilson side of the family.

Mom had the week off now for rest and to help her get through this rough time. Aunt Leah, Uncle Steve and my cousin Amanda were here for the whole week. Mom got to go to a few places with them, to show them around Louisiana. They even saw a big alligator, but Drew was a great big thought in everyone's minds. Mom and Dad had a little service for my little brother, with just family and they were so grateful for all of the support.

Family was surrounding us that week, and that was the best medicine for my Mom and Dad. We are grateful for Drew, and Mom has said from the beginning that when Renee Arvilla Frederick arrives here, our new sister arrives and is old enough to understand, Mom will definitely let her know that because of Drew, she is here and is healthy and strong. Mom's cousin Christin sent her a quote;

'To get something you never had, you have to do something you never did.' When God takes something from your grasp, He's not punishing you, but merely opening your hands to receive something better. 'The will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you.'

That says it all right there. We love you Drew and will never forget you!!!!!

This is a picture of the little memorial we have in our house.

We got to play some guitar hero!!

2009-04-16T21:51:00.006-05:00

by Jack

Mom was so bored yesterday, that I think she gave us the run of the house and we could do what ever we wanted today. Well, until we got our baths. Uncle P came over and I was so excited to see him. Mom said it was like I hadn't seen him in a long time, but I think that baby is taking her brain juice too, because we just saw him yesterday. Anyway, I am always excited to see him, he plays with us and runs with us in the yard, but I don't think I'll be as excited next time he comes over. HE GAVE ME A BATH!!!!! Mom's friends have been saying that I smell like a dog. DUH! I am a dog and I figured since Dad gave me a hair cut last night, he would have cut all of the stank off of me. So I got a bath, Cora did too! I do smell pretty good.

After our bath Mom and Uncle P started playing guitar hero on the X-box. It is fun to watch and listen to the play. Mom was saying that the baby must have liked some of the songs, because she was dancing in her tummy. That must be really weird. I wonder if she was doing ballet, or tap, maybe she was head banging 'cause they were playing some rock and roll. After a while Mom and Uncle "P" took a break and Cora and I started to jam. We got tired pretty fast. Must have been water logged from the baths, cause we fell asleep with the guitars in our paws.

I little while later some of Mom's basketball players came to visit here too, and they took the guitars away from us, but I didn't mind, because one of them spoils me and gives me a back massage the whole time. So I go to sit with her. They all said I looked handsome with my new hair cut too. It was a fun day with all of the visitors, and I think Mom enjoyed it too.

Oh yeah, Cora told me to tell you about the puppies that came to visit too. They were BABIES, and I mean big babies. They cried every time I tried to play with them. Oh well, they were smaller than me and they seemed kind of young, but I had fun playing with someone other than my bigger older sister.I think Mom enjoyed having some puppies around too. I guess they were kind of cute!

Trying to stop the flooding!

2009-04-15T16:28:00.006-05:00

by Cora

Flooding in southern Louisiana is inevitable. Mom and Dad were told we didn't need flood insurance when they bought the house, so they didn't bother. Money had been tight with all of the moving and the changing of jobs, so they had to cut a little somewhere. Jack and I loved our new yard. At times when it would rain hard, there would be a big puddle on the south side of our house, and Mom would let me go in it to get my frisbee, but I never thought it would be bad here.

Aug. 2008 hurricane Gustav came to visit us. Mom and Dad were trying to figure out what they were going to do. mom was going to go to Texas and Dad wanted to stay. Mom just couldn't leave Dad, so we went to a friends house. 6 adults, 4 kids, and 2 adults in a small house, but it was fun. The kids kept me sane from all of the noises outside, and Dad stayed out in the garage with the guys and Mom and the ladies played cards and did puzzles. The next day after the hurricane passed, we went home. Everything looked fine. The ditches had water in them, but we weren't too worried. Then the rain came..... the water rose 2 feet in 4 hours. It happened so fast, that there was not much we could do. The cars were parked up on an incline in the yard, and Mom and Dad loaded us up in the truck and we went to stay with more friends. The water didn't get into the house which we are all grateful for, but it was an eye opener.

Our house is built on pillars and it is about 2 - 3 feet off the ground if not more. It looks like a boat house!!!

Mom had just got flood insurance at the end of March, and the same weekend she had called in to get it, we had a hard rain, that happened through the night. The thunder was so hard, that it shook the house. As we woke up, the water had gotten up to 6 inches under the car port, but was gone by the time we had looked outside. The mud and sugar cane stalks were all over. It had been enough. Dad stayed home and cleaned up his shop and the car port, but we had enough. That rain shouldn't have flooded us that easily, so we contacted our Parish (county) councilman and they came out this afternoon and cut down the brush in the ditches. Hopefully this will help keep the water flowing, so we don't have anymore trouble. At least for a simple rain.

What else could be wrong?

2009-04-14T21:21:00.004-05:00

by Cora

Mom has been doing very well with this bed rest thing, but today, she was very bored. She called whoever she had thought would be off and able to come over, or even take her to get her nails done. She told me that Dad doesn't like the purple she did a few weeks ago. He likes the french manicure she gets, but she has to have someone else do that.

Dad was going to take her to get her nails done until she got a call from her Doctor. Mom told us that she has this thing called Placenta Previa now. While Mom and Jack took a nap in the big chair I did some research on it. Placenta Previa is when the placenta forms over the cervix, and as most of you know Mom's cervix isn't that strong and that is why she had that surgery (cerclage) and she is on bed rest. Anyway, the placenta could cause some bleeding that could be detrimental to the baby and to Mom, and that wouldn't be good. The placenta could also move away from the cervix and that is what we are praying for. If it doesn't move, Mom will have to have a C section, and if that is the worst thing that could happen then we will take it. There are other things that could happen, but I didn't read those, because I know in my heart that the placenta will move.

After Dad arrived home from work, we all took a ride to Mike and Cotina's new property. We brought the pictures of the new baby to show Mike and Cotina and the we went to Grandma and Grandpa's house. On the way home Mom had asked Dad if he had to go to Mississippi again next week for work, because she had heard he might. I think she wants him to stay home now with all of this going on. Dad reassured Mom that he had made the decision to stay home until we have our healthy baby home safe and sound. I like to hear that he isn't going anywhere too, because I worry when he is gone, but I know he can take care of himself and he knows that I take good care of Mom.

Please keep my Mom and the baby in your prayers.

Brother or Sister?

2009-04-13T17:19:00.003-05:00

by Cora

Well, Mom and Dad were gone for a while this morning. I knew today was the day, and I knew they were so excited. Mom didn't sleep well through the night, and she got up earlier than normal. The alarm was really annoying.

She showed us pictures, and all sorts of stuff when she got home. She told me to be careful who I tell too, because Grandpa Steve and Uncle Vern in MN don't want to know what it is. So writing it here might not be too good.

I'm really excited, because I love kids and Jack is good with kids too, but Mom told me that we have to be very careful for a while when the baby comes, because we are not used to babies. We are used to small kids and big kids, but I think I'll be good with the baby. I have to have my head on Mom's belly, because it is fascinating what is moving and making noises in there. Mom doesn't mind me being there, because she is always cold and I keep her warm.

I suppose you are all waiting....................... Well maybe Mom will be able to go to Walmart one of these days and copy those pictures she has on the frig, they all tell you what it is.

Okay, okay, okay...... Jack is bugging me to tell you all.........it is a GIRL!

Happy Easter!!!

2009-04-12T18:55:00.007-05:00

by Cora

Happy Easter everyone. We got to enjoy the festivities today too! We went to our Grandma and Grandpa's here in Louisiana. The weather was pretty unforgiving today, but we still managed to play both outside and inside.

Easter is special for our family. Not only because Jesus rose from the tomb, but because 3 years ago Dad proposed to Mom and I guess he adopted us, and now we are getting a little brother or sister in less than 5 months. Mom is excited again, because she is going to be able to tell us if it will be a boy or girl.

We like to celebrate with the entire family and Grandpa Hoa makes so much food, that we are not able to taste, but by the look and smell of it all, it looks delicious. After everyone eats and takes a nap, we get to play. Our little cousin, Turtle, played with us all of the time.

Dad likes to bring his 4 wheelers everywhere, and Turtle has a little one that he rides around the house, so it was Uncle Floyd and Turtle all afternoon, and Dad had to do what Turtle said, so if he wanted him to stand, he had to stand. If he wanted me to chase him, I had to chase him. You catch my drift, right?
And of course Turtle is one cool dude! With his shades, and his rad bike.

Well I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter and remember to always forgive, like Jesus did.

Jack has been a bad boy today!

2009-04-11T18:53:00.003-05:00

by Cora

It was nice having both Mom and Dad home today. Hasn't happened too often lately. Jack and I were able to go outside for a while this morning and we usually sit on the front porch and watch our neighbors mess with their yards, wash their cars, and we see maniacs drive by our house like mad men. They go so fast sometimes that I get scared to go as far as the ditch, but Jack is a little more curious and daring than I am.

Mom says it is Easter weekend, and we see more cars at neighbors houses. Must be families getting together, but one neighbor had more dogs too. We always see the yellow lab, but she doesn't roam in their yard much. They had a chocolate lab, a weimeriner, and a Yorkie. I know my dogs, because Mom talks about them a lot and I met so many different breeds back in Texas at the Bark Park.

Anyway, Jack is really sociable and he's not scared of crosing the road. I told him not to do it, because Mom and Dad will be mad, but he never listens to his older and WISER sister. As soon as he left, I went to the back door to find Mom or Dad, and Mom happened to be there puting something into the oven. She went to the front, but the neighbor had Jack on a leash and was bringing him home to us. I over heard a little bit, and I guess he got into a fight with one of the guys over there. Jack does that too. I think he needs anger management sometimes. Of course he was sent to his room, and I just went and layed in there, because I didn't know if I was in trouble too. Mom always taught me about guilty by association. I knew I hadn't gone over there, but she didn't even see Jack over there. The neighbor had told her.

After that we had to stay in the house for a while. Dad had decided to go for a ride on Big Red ( his 4 wheeler) and let us out while he was out there. Where did Jack go? Back to the neighbors. You would have thought he had learned, but Jack is a little hard headed. The neighbor came a knocking again and Jack was sent to his kennel again. I sat with Mom while Dad was gone, and then they let us out again after Dad arrived home. Mom snuck out the front to watch, and Jack saw here right away, so he didn't try anything. I kept telling him that he was pushing Mom's patience, and she went back inside. She must have been sitting at the door, because he got just to the ditch by the time she opened the door and scared the POOP out of the both of us. We both ran as fast as we could to the door, and into our room.

Jack had to stay there, but I was rewarded for being a good girl and I got my favorite.... a GREENIE! Dad made me work for it, but it was soooooo good, and Jack hopefully knows now that if he does what he is supposed to, he can have a greenie too!

In honor of my Great Grandma Arvilla!

2009-04-09T18:07:00.006-05:00

by Cora - the lab

Every morning Mom goes out the back and says, "good morning Gorgeous!" I couldn't understand who she was talking to until she told me some stories of her.

Gorgeous is my great grandmother, who passed away last April. Mom told me stories of how she grew up with Gorgeous right across the driveway and how they were really close. When Mom was a little girl, they would look out Gorgeous windows and bird watch. They would look each bird up in her bird book, and Mom said that they would always see cardinals and Great Grandmother would tell her how beautiful they were. Mom came to realize that Gorgeous favorite bird was the cardinal, because she had figurines, plates, clocks, and clothing with cardinals on them.

During Gorgeous rough times in the hospital and nursing home, Mom would see this beautiful bright red cardinal out the back door, right in perfect view. And if you didn't see it right away, you definitely heard it. I think it gave my mom the peace of mind that Gorgeous was going to be okay and that she would always be here for her. Mom laughed on her 29th birthday when she went outside and all she could hear was Gorgeous singing as loud as could be. I even think you could hear it in the house that day.

She had also had a special moment with the cardinals after Mom and Dad had lost my little brother at 17 weeks of her pregnancy. Mom, Jack and I were the only ones home that day and it had been a week since Drew had passed. Mom went to the cemetery and talked to Jesus and Gorgeous. She came home and we all cried the rest of the day. The following day, mom went outside like normal with her morning cup of coffee and spotted 3 cardinals on a tree in plain view. They didn't sing that morning, they just all turned to mom and let her see that they were okay and then they flew off. I believe it was Great Grandma letting Mom know that she was taking very good care of him.

We all miss her and I know I'll run over to the house to see if she is home when we go to the north country to visit. She always gave us scraps from the table. Mom and Dad don't allow us to eat them, but she always seemed to sneak them to us. We love you Gorgeous and I'll make sure Mom says hi to you from me tomorrow!!!!

How Mom and Dad found us!!

2009-04-08T14:59:00.009-05:00

by Cora - The lab

Not much happened today. Mom played computer games and Jack and I spent some time outside. It is beautiful out there. Today I'm going to tell you about how Mom found me, Dad and Jack.

I was born in Katy, TX and went to a couple of homes before Mom found me. The first home I went to wanted me to be a hunting dog, but I just can't stand the sound of those guns. Scary things. After they found out I was so afraid, they brought me back to the place I was born. I was about 7 months when 2 ladies came over the the house and they sat on the floor and called me over. My name was Sweet Pea then, and one of them I really liked and layed by her legs and put my head on her thigh. She was asking if I barked a lot, and a lot of other questions and I couldn't understand why. She took me home and I was as happy as I could be. They both took me to the Millie Bush Bark Park, and I loved that place. I went to Galveston and played in the Gulf of Mexico all of the time.

I was with my Mom for a while and I had 2 friend that were cats. We moved a couple times into apartments and houses, and then my Mom met this guy. He didn't know about me being in the house, but him and Mom hit it off. Mom would talk to me and tell me that she was in love, and I kind of understand, because I was in love too. With Mom's best friend's boxer, Cane.

Anyway, Mom and, well I called him Dad, because he was around a lot got married in June of 2006 and I got to be the ring bearer.

About a month before that though Mom had brought home Jack. He tested Mom and Dad by digging and getting out of the back yard, and he had a couple of accidents in the house. Dad said he had to go, and Mom convinced Dad to let him stay until the wedding, because Jack is the kind that is supposed to run after animals and make them go in different directions. What did Mom call that? Oh yeah, herding. Well Grandma and Grandpa have a big farm, and he could do all of that stuff, but Dad was convinced when Jack became very protective with Mom and me. Or he couldn't let him go after Jack gave him the puppy eyes.

Dad, you see was going to Africa for the Marines after they got married, and he was worried about us, probably cause I was scared of everything. So, Jack was the one that barked and growled if anything was out of sorts.

Now we are one big happy family: Mom, Dad, TJ, Manny, Jack and I. One on the way too. Mom is ready to tell us if we are getting a brother or sister and we will find out on Monday, so bear with us and you will hear all about it!!!!

Did we have some visitors today!!!!

2009-04-07T17:42:00.006-05:00

Hi I'm Jack, the Australian Shepherd. Decorah's little brother.

We had to get up early this morning to say goodbye to Grandma Jo. Kind of sad to see her go, because I got to sleep in a bed with her. Mom let's me sometimes when Dad is gone, but that doesn't happen too much.

Grandma Jo has been here so long, that I thought she was moving in with us. She helped Mom out a lot with painting one of the rooms in the house, and she has brought all of this new furniture in the house. Mom is saying it is for the new baby, what ever that means.

Now it seems like my aunt Holly is staying with us for a little bit. Aunt Holly stays with us when Mom and Dad go on trips and can't bring us, but we are lucky and get to go on the road a lot. I think I've traveled to more states than most dogs.

Mom's friend, Amanda, came to visit today, and she brought my little girlfriend, Tina. I was so excited to see her. Cora (Decorah) and I chase her around the house. I think she likes me!!! She is kinda cute!!! Mom and Amanda watched some movies and we played and played and played, 'til I fell over. Tina is still a puppy and she NEVER stops.

After they left, some of Mom's basketball players and another coach stopped by. One of the girls wanted me to come by her, then she picked up her feet and told me to go away. She did that a few times, until Mom rescued me. She even made fun of my tail, probably cause I don't have one. Mom says I have lambs butt. Whatever that means.

It is nice that Mom gets company every once in a while, because sometimes she just sit there and talks to us. I don't see anything wrong with that, but other people make fun of her for it. Well, the day was pretty eventful and I'll have to beat Cora to the computer again so I can write more at another time. So Long and Farewell

What a day for my Mom.....

2009-04-06T18:30:00.000-05:00

Decorah - "I'm the Black Lab"

Mom is an early riser and is usually the one to wake Dad up, but not this morning. I knew something was going on, but I just couldn't put my paw on it. Dad left for work; that's normal. Mom got up and actually put make-up on; that's not normal. What is going on? Then she told us while she was jumping around and seemed to be very excited, because today was the day that she was going to finally tell us what has been kicking my head when I lay with her, a girl or a boy.

She even told my brother, Jack, to bark once if he thought it was a boy, or twice if he thought it was a girl. Of course he only barked once. I think he is a little prejudice.

Yeah, he thinks he is so innocent..... but he is the one that gets us both in trouble.

Anyway, The day was going to be a good one I could sense it, but all of a sudden, Mom was really upset and talking to Dad on the phone about the Dr. office not scheduling the appointment right or something like that. I just wish she talked in my language!!!!!! But I knew what I had to do, and I assumed position next to her with my head on her belly and let her wipe her tears in my ears. She seems to be more moody these days too, and blames it on the thing in her belly that really likes to kick me.

Mom really wanted to go to the doctor today, because my Grandma Jo, from Minnesota, was leaving to go back home early tomorrow morning and I know Mom wanted to share that with Grandma.

Well, Mom is home now and she hates it when I'm on the computer all day, but when she leaves, she leaves me in my room and the computer is right there, so I have to keep myself occupied. Jack has to be in his kennel in the computer room, but she trust me to be out in here. I just have to make sure the computer looks like it did when she left so she has no way of knowing about my blog. Hope you all enjoy, and I'll write more later. Mom doesn't leave to often anymore, she is on this thing called bed rest! I don't know!!!