Eden Truth

i've moved...

2010-02-21T19:55:00.001-08:00

okay, okay... so not literally, but the blog has. it was time to move sites for multiple reasons. go ahead, hop over there and check it out - let me know what you think. there are a few posts you can catch up on, including a new photo of Eden! That is, if anyone ever still reads this thing:)

truthinmypocket.wordpress.com

the flouncy bag...

2010-02-16T17:20:00.000-08:00

For Christmas I got a few new crafting books, one of which was One Yard Wonders. I've been thumbing through it 'oohing and ahhing' over all the projects. I the this crazy idea to try and work my way through it this year, but we'll see how many projects I can actually get done!

Well, here's my first project from the book! The Flouncy Bag immediately caught my eye and I knew it would be my first project. I found some amazing fabric at Joann's, of all places! While the pattern was incredibly easy to make, there were errors in it - luckily I found the errata web page prior to starting, but I still think the corrections posted were wrong. I wasn't able to get all the pieces cut from the one yard of fabric, so I used some linen I had on hand for the interior and the top part. Actually though, I'm glad i did because I love the contrast and I think it gives it a vintage feel. I even had this AMAZING vintage button that I had been saving for the right project and added it for a bit of embellishment. Overall - LOVED this project and will definitely be making another one soon, since this one is on its way to a special birthday girl! She better like it, because I definitely didn't want to part with it!

a day at the fair...

2010-02-12T17:24:00.000-08:00

I know it sounds crazy, but the Florida State Fair is held in February! Eden's Deaf and Heard of Hearing class was taking a field trip there today, so we decided to all go along. I was pretty excited, despite working the night before. I guess I was hoping for cool rides and wonderful weather - neither of which I found there :(

Don't get me wrong - we had a good time, but we didn't last long. For starters, I didn't layer Eden enough (hence the pink cheeks and runny nose in photo above!) and I didn't even grab myself a coat! It was raining. Apparently you have to be 36 inches to ride ALL of the rides. And Josh couldn't find a deep friend snickers. We did manage to sneak her onto the Carousel, though she wasn't too sure about the horses going up and down. Josh did ride a crazy ride. And we found a petting zoo that Eden got really excited about. Somehow I didn't get any pictures of the petting zoo.

Hopefully next year Eden will be at least 36 inches, it will be 70 degrees and Josh can find his deep fried snickers.

I've been up to some crafting this week... post to follow soon!

a few shots of the day...

2010-02-05T17:33:00.000-08:00

kissing herself in the mirror (i know, gross, its a public park) ...

first action shot yet ...

loving the slide ...

telling daddy how much fun she had and its time for lunch ...

topping the morning off with Greek food for lunch ...

The amount of fun she had + waking up at 5:30 for no apparent reason explains the 3 1/2 hour nap she took in the afternoon!

delightful sounds...

2010-02-03T14:39:00.000-08:00

We've been working on getting Eden enrolled in a Kindermusik class for a while now. We found out through her Deaf and Hard of hearing teacher that there is a Kindermusik class that is taught in conjunction with ASL, called Delightful Sounds. Today was Eden's first class and it was wonderful! Jodi (Eden's early interventionist in Raleigh) always talked about Kindermusik and how great it was - we even attended her daughter's Kindermusik Birthday party when Eden was much younger. At that point she wasn't too responsive to the music and while I thought it was exciting, Eden didn't seem to be that impressed! Today was different. From the moment we walked in, she was so curious about everything there - mostly the other kids. We moved from song to fingerplay, to dancing to playing instruments, to story time - and with each task she was so excited, giggling, following directions and mostly watching all her newfound friends! I can't wait for our class next week!

I treated her to lunch out (ahem... IKEA) since she did so well and I had been up for more than 24 hours and didn't really feel like fixing lunch! We both went home and took a nice nap!

finally some time for crafting...

2010-01-31T18:21:00.001-08:00

I have finally had some time for crafting in the past few weeks... much needed crafting to be exact. At the beginning of the year, I began to reevaluate my etsy shop and decided that at this season in life, going full force with the etsy shop is not really an option. I have a long list of sewing projects I would love to complete, but (un)fortunately, I had tons of business in my etsy shop and I never had any time to complete them. I will still keep the etsy shop open, but I will only be listing ready made items and one custom listing at a time.

That being said, here was my first project I finished a few weeks ago. I bought Anna Maria Horner's Seams to Me, 24 Reasons to Love Sewing last year and had earmarked this project. I loved the fact that it used so many different pieces of fabric, since I can never decide on ONE! Maybe that's why she named it the "I'll Have One of Everything Bag". While it was a fairly easy pattern to navigate, it did take me a total of 4 hours to finish - four, uninterrupted hours. I was certainly tired at the end, but so excited about the finished product! I think my favorite feature is the braided handles, but if I ever make another one, I will revise it so its not so pointy!

Hope you have a had a wonderful week - I'll be back this week with more pictures of Eden!

pirates...

2010-01-24T19:39:00.000-08:00

So, apparently, in Tampa, every January they celebrate pirates. We decided to join in the celebration, along with our pastors families, of course! What can be better than a whole town dressing up like pirates? A real pirate ship? Fireworks over the water? 70 degree weather in the dead of winter? Need I go on?

Yesterday was the Gasparilla Children's Parade (I'm differentiating between the *real* Gasparilla Parade which is apparently is pretty scandalous!). It was such a great event in our city - a three hour parade down Bayshore Boulevard, complete with all kettle corn, plastic swords, beads, and fireworks! My only regret is that I didn't know in enough advance to make Eden a pirate costume... but I'm positive we will attend again next year and she will have quite the costume.

More than the pirates, I think Eden enjoyed her first ride in Abigail's wagon. As soon as Justin (our pastor) started pulling the wagon, she started laughing hysterically! She couldn't get enough.. and I think Abigail didn't know what to do with her! I tried to catch it on video, but by the time I got my phone our, she had slowed down on the laughing... but you can catch the tail end of it here.

And just for the record - we may have endured the worst heat this summer, but I'm totally LOVING this Florida winter weather - it really doesn't get any better!

Signing Time

2010-01-13T19:54:00.000-08:00

If you spend any amount of time at our house, you're likely to catch an episode of "Signing Time". Ms. Alison, Eden's early interventionist here introduced us to this amazing little series of videos when she started working with us. They have been so instrumental in our WHOLE family learning ASL.... and when I say whole, I mean all of us - when we get a new video, we all sit down and watch it, learning a new set of words in our new found language.

We never really set out to learn ASL, just enough to get us by until Eden learned to talk. Our mindset changed this summer though when Eden started signing and we were able to communicate with her for the first time. We bought a book - teach yourself to sign, but it was pretty much useless as Signing is a hands on language, and really, how much "signing" can you learn from a book? A video though, now thats a grand idea! Nevermind that it was intended for children, it has taught Josh and I so much of the language!

I know there are many theories behind teaching hearing impaired children to sign - and I've even had an SLP (speech pathologists) tell me not to sign to her b/c I will impair her auditory skills and her ability to speak, but I've seen the benefits of signing to Eden and how much it has helped her communicate what she wants and needs, and Oh, you should see her face when "signing time" comes on - it really is the most adorable thing you've ever seen - and then to see her "sign babble" with Alex and Leah (the two kids on the program) - its hilarious! LOVE IT!

walking...

2010-01-13T19:42:00.001-08:00

I know Eden, we are excited too:)

Eden has taken her first steps! I think a few tears of joy were shed after the first few steps were taken, but I still can't get over seeing her wabbling around! For a few weeks now, she has been crawling over the bottom step, climbing up to sit on it, then signing "help", eagerly looking for me or Josh to come stand in front of her to help her walk. Then one day, she got so excited, she went for it and walked all the way from the stairs to the door where I was sitting, clapping and coaxing her on! I'm sure most of you have already seen it, but in case you haven't - you can see a video of it here:) CLICK .

I'll be back blogging more next week with a few crafting projects hopefully:) I'm hoping to have some more crafting posts this year, along with more photos of Eden, of course!

Baby Girl Turns TWO!

2009-12-29T18:06:00.000-08:00

That's right, baby girl turned two on Saturday! I can hardly believe my baby is TWO already! Where, oh where, does the time go?

We had a wonderful Christmas! Gigi and PopPop came in town for a few days and we had lots of fun spending time with them, not to mention the countless trips to IKEA and games of Banagrams!

Although I hardly ever make new years resolutions (primarily because I am so bad at keeping them), I've got a few on my list this year, including keeping this blog a little more updated:) Oh, and have I mentioned that Eden is standing some by herself!

Happy Halloween

2009-11-06T18:41:00.000-08:00

Happy *belated* Halloween from the Carrolls:)

And until I figure out how to upload video to blogger, visit these links for these adorable videos of Eden.

You've been warned... there are no photos of E in this one:)

2009-10-05T19:35:00.000-07:00

I have managed to find some time to craft lately, I know... surprising! Its amazing what a little crafting can do for my stress level! I will start by saying, when we moved, I quickly realized there was little crafting space in this "small" apartment of ours and was quite disappointed when my five day a week job left me NO time to sew. After a little rearranging and changing jobs, my life now seems a little more balanced as the sewing machine has found its rightful place back in to my home!

I've got a few new Bible covers in the shop, including my own personal favorite (which just so happens to be on my Bible right now). This one is made from a vintage 1940s Wedding Ring Quilt bought HERE. Go ahead, hop on over and check them out! CLICK HERE

I'm also working on a bunch of TRUTHlets that will be displayed at a craft show in TN (thanks Mom!) in November (details to follow for all you Tennesseans).

Enjoy the week, hopefully I'll be back soon with more pictures of the *not so little* girl!

Pigtails = Big Girl!

2009-09-28T18:19:00.001-07:00

I'm not sure how well my math is, but we discovered pigtails this week and already, she's looking more like a big girl!

Working on the Parallel Bars for PT

Many of you have heard, but in case you haven't - we received WONDERFUL news from Eden's Neurosurgeon here! We met with Dr. Tuite last week and he reviewed her chart, repeated her MRI and reassured us that her surgery Dr. Fuchs did in February has done its job of keeping the fluid stable and some areas even appeared to be smaller than her previous scans! Praise to God! I have to admit, I was a little surprised when he shared the good news with us. We have prayed so much for healing, I had convinced myself that she would need another surgery. I know its probably a lack of faith, but every other scan has lead us to the OR, so I expected another surgery and for the Lord to heal her through surgery. I can't even begin to describe the emotions in my heart when Dr. Tuite said the MRI looked great and that if she makes it to 1 year past her surgery with no fluid accumulation, the chances of her needing a shunt in the future are small!

Not much else new here... just wishing for a piece of NC and TN fall:) Pumpkin Spice Latte + 90 degrees does not equal fall!

And a few pictures from our weekly visit to the park:

new table, new skirt, new skill

2009-09-14T17:54:00.000-07:00

Gigi and PopPop bought E a new little table when they were here... she absolutely LOVES sitting at her table! When we are in her room playing, she will crawl right up to it and do the sign for "help" - precious!

I've had this fabric for a while now, and have been saving it for a new skirt for baby girl... it makes me think of fall (which I'm eagerly awaiting!). For some *crazy* reason, it also makes me think of this dress I had growing up which makes me laugh:)

And her new skill - Miss Jenny would be proud! She is learning to bend down and pick things off the floor when she's standing... its adorable to watch her try to so hard and be so proud of herself when she is able to pick it up!

Oh, I love this little one... more later... I'm pooped... today was my first day at the hospital and I'm back tomorrow night!

its been a long day...

2009-09-05T17:45:00.001-07:00

"More"? Maybe tomorrow, Eden, Mommy's tired...

lots to say

2009-08-29T10:48:00.000-07:00

It seems Eden has had a lot to say both "vocally and with sign. She's taken off with the sign language the past few weeks! Her vocabulary now consists of "more", "all done", "help" and we're working on "thank you". I've found myself saying the words over and over just to watch her make the sign and look at me so proudly! I have prayed so much for the ability to communicate. There were definitely times in the past year I wondered if I would ever get to communicate with her, thinking she would never catch on to this whole signing thing, but its so amazing to see how the Lord has continued to prove faithful in her development! She's also got her own little language as well - even though it only includes the consonants "m" and "n". It seems like she can make a hundred different sounds just from those to letters and her vowels! Talent, I tell you!

Eden had her evaluation last week for therapy services here. We're going to start speech/hearing therapy and physical therapy soon and I am so glad! We're praying for our therapist that will be placed in our home. We were blessed with the most amazing therapists in Raleigh, I can't imagine any better ones! This was one of the hardest things for me to give up before we moved, was not knowing who are therapists would be when we got here. But, God knows and I know that He will provide the way He has all along!

Many of you may have heard by now, but I'm changing jobs! The job I was (and will be for two more weeks) was such a blessing to have for our move and obviously God's provision in helping us get to Tampa. It wasn't however, a job I enjoyed, nor a job I wanted to do long-term. Sitting behind a cubicle, staring a computer screen was not my forte. I had been talking with a recruiter at the children's hospital and they were hiring for their Peds Oncology/Hematology/Bone Marrow Transplant unit. Um, yes, I would like that job please! So I interviewed and was offered the job last week. I start on Sept 14th and am so excited to get my feet back into the hospital. There's just something about hospital nursing I have always been attracted to and love this aspect of nursing more than any other I tried my hand at!

Enjoy the pictures, more to come early next week - we're planning a morning trip to the beach tomorrow - hopefully I don't forget my camera:)

And yes, she's started the doll phase!

holland...

2009-08-11T18:54:00.000-07:00

a dear friend of ours sent me this video yesterday. what sweet perspective it gives...

http://www.cflparents.org/presentations/holland/index.htm

(in order to view, you have to select an option from the drop down box, but you do not have to give an email)

from frowns to smiles...

2009-08-09T07:16:00.000-07:00

I'm not even sure why she was mad at me here... maybe because I was making her practice standing from the chair, but this was the face I got...

And as soon as the pouty face came, this face appeared.... oh my, she's approaching two too quickly.

we're back... and now blogging from tampa

2009-08-02T18:29:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I let another month go by without blogging... okay, yes I can... this has been the craziest month I can remember. As most of you know, we have been planning and praying through moving to Tampa since January. All along, our "goal" (I use that term loosly) was to be in Tampa in August. Less than a month ago, with no jobs or place to live, we were beginning to get a little discouraged. Within of a few days, the Lord orchestrated all those details and had us moving to Tampa two weeks later!

We arrived to Tampa on the 19th, I started my new job on the 20th, Josh's sister, mom, and dad have been to visit, as well as my dad! Did I say we'd had a busy few weeks! Now that we're getting settled though, we're loving Tampa (though I can't say I'm loving the heat just yet)! We're meeting our neighbors which is our first step in building relationships here! Our church plant will also start meeting in the next few weeks - I'll have more blog posts about the church soon!

So, for the sake of not making this the longest post every, I'll end for tonight with pictures as promised (to Grandma, GiGi and Aunt Linda for starters). Check back this week, I'm planning a few more posts with Eden updates!

Eden and PopPop

(and yes, Dad, I do brush her hair)

We're official members to the Florida Aquarium

our itty-bitty living room/dining room/kitchen!

(photos on the walls are next weekend's project)

Kitchen...

Eden's Bathroom

the "view" from our back patio... we thought it was a "garage", but we're beginning to wonder...

our LARGE bathroom!

Our Bedroom

Eden, trying to find her drum under the bed...

This one's for Jodi - Eden's trying to take her index finger and move her lips to make a sound Jodi was always trying to get her to make:) (instead of her finger though, she uses her whole hand!

Eden's room, from Eden's view

communication

2009-06-28T14:58:00.000-07:00

In the past few weeks, we have seen Eden signing more and more each day. We have been signing to her since she was a few months old, but until the past few weeks, we really didn't know if she was understanding what we were saying and signing. From a developmental standpoint, this is HUGE! I now feel sure that she is starting to process language (both spoken and signed). She signs "more", "all done", "bye, bye" and claps (for "yah" and "good girl"!). It is so sweet to see her do this and is such an answer to our prayers for the Lord to continue to develop and mold her mind. She is learning and I couldn't be prouder!

We had Eden's 18 month well check this week and she weighed in at a whopping 18.5 lbs:) I forgot how long she was, but she's only in the 30% for height, so I'm not sure if she got the tall gene or not! Dr. Herriott was pleased with how she is progressing with her milestones and we walked out of there with only one referral! Nothing new though, Eden just needs another renal ultrasound to check her kidneys. When she was a few months old, she was diagnosed with Grade 1 Hydronephrosis - which is likely related to her tethered cord issue. Its nothing that we will have to do anything about and could even improve with age, but they just want to do a renal ultrasound every year to check and make sure its not getting worse. We'll have that done this week, as well as Eden's ENT appt and hearing aid check. We also had a follow up appointment with Dr. Rice (her general surgeon) this past week and he gave us the all clear and said we didn't need to follow up any more unless she starting have problems - this was bittersweet too as I'm glad to mark another doctor off our list to see, but truth be told.... besides Dr. Herriott, he was our favorite:)

So, I promised details about Tampa a few posts ago. At this point, we are still hoping to be there by August... we are following up with job leads and praying that the Lord provides a job(s) quickly. We will keep everyone up to date as soon as we have more definite plans! We would certainly appreciate your continued prayers!!!!

many faces of Eden

2009-06-19T17:57:00.001-07:00

just a few of the faces we've seen alot of lately:)

happy i just had a bath face

i'm trying to make a fishy face face

i'm gonna get you face

saying 'mama' face

i'm so happy i could scream face

twitter?

2009-06-16T18:28:00.000-07:00

I'm trying to figure the whole twitter thing out, but just in case you twitter and want to follow me (and my many shameless store plugs!) my twitter name is "edensmama".

Nothing new this week. Josh has Runners Camp (which sadly got rained out today) and I'm looking forward to the next two days at home with Eden. We've got one playdate/lunch planned with an old coworker and I can't wait! I think its going to be a low-key week, at home, with lots of snuggling and crafting:)

The next two or three weeks will be filled with follow up appts, including her 18 month check up!!! Crazy its already almost been 18 months... I know, I can hardly believe it either.

More pictures soon:) I promise.

a day with dad...

2009-06-13T13:39:00.000-07:00

School ended this week for Josh (school = job). Since he is home for the summer, I decided to work a little more (two more days to be exact = three days total). I know it may not sound like a lot to many of you, but frankly, I was a bit overwhelmed this week with all the little things I ordinarily get done during the day. After a little rearranging, and Eden's fever canceling a few therapies, the week turned out to be a little less hectic than I anticipated. Josh has Eden duty when I'm at work and he documented part of their day on Friday:

The day started with a visit to Waffle House... I'm not sure by the picture if she was having fun or not, but according to Josh, she had a blast and loved the waffles (minus the syrup - I gave clear instructions that she was NOT to have syrup).

Josh had his first real experience taking Eden to one of her therapies alone! According to Josh, Eden took a 3 hour nap that afternoon - I think he wore her out... she never naps that long for me:)

It has been so hot around here, so we've put up a SMALL kiddie pool outside and today was the perfect day to spend in it. Eden LOVES the water, but the sun is another story... if I could get her to wear her little baby sunglasses I think she'd do better!

Eden is standing so well on her own, though she still can't get to standing by herself... YET! She's starting to TRY to cruise along her toys, but is still very unstable. Her braces should be in this week, which will hopefully help with this too. Its still so amazing every time I see her do something new. I'm so proud of her!

2 days left for the YART SALE... free shipping on everything in the shop. And lots of Buy 2, Get 1 free sales... check it out for more details... today, I've been on ETSY for 1 year and yesterday i hit 200 sales!!!!!

Busy Lizzie... wait a minute...

2009-06-10T18:32:00.000-07:00

As a child, I was given the nickname "busy Lizzie" (among others)... I think Eden is following suite. She has gotten quite busy lately and it into EVERYTHING! It is amazing how quickly she can get from one spot to another. Her newest facination is doors. She loves them. It doesn't matter what form it takes: bathroom door, bedroom door, cabinet door, front door, door on a toy... you name it, it could keep her entertained for a while! Only once has she closed herself in her room when I was on the outside and then sat behind the door for quite a few minutes before she finally moved and I could get in!

(mastering the iPhone)

Two weeks ago, we spent the afternoon at Vollmer Farms and picked a HUGE bucket of strawberries. It was such a great way to spend the afternoon and we all got our fill of strawberries, including Eden.

I ended up freezing most of the ones we brought home - 4 - 1 quart bags to be exact. I have a feeling they're not going to last long though once I purchased this new attachment for my KitchenAide... we had homemade Strawberry Ice a few nights ago and it was so yummy. I even let Eden have some and she was instantly a fan! (Organic strawberries, sugar and water... ingredients for dessert I can feel good about!)

Check out the shop... I'm having a YART SALE (no, I did not come up with that name)... its an etsy-wide event and I decided to take part to get rid of some of my stock before we move (details soon). ENTIRE shop has frees shipping until 6/14.

introducing... TRUTHlets !

2009-06-04T14:06:00.000-07:00

I finally decided on a name and couldn't have done it without the help of my previous post and the following comments! I didn't go with any of the exact names you came up with, but it definitely got my brain going and I finally landed on TRUTHlet! I'm awarding the giveway to both Kacie and Melissa because they both creatively used TRUTH in their suggestion - why couldn't I have thought of using Eden's middle name:) Girls, I'll email you later, but be thinking of the verse you would like and what color(s)!

And for the rest of you... you can now purchase them in the SHOP. I will be adding more as the week goes on and I always love custom orders (a specific verse/quote and specific fabric)... I'm still trying to figure out the best way to list a custom order, so if you have suggestions, please let me know!

AND if you place an order between now and Sunday, its FREE SHIPPING for blog readers!!! Just add "edentruth" in notes to seller at checkout and wait for me to send you and invoice (don't follow the paypal prompts). If you're local, they're $10 since shipping would be free anyway:)

dad's little trackster

2009-06-02T07:06:00.000-07:00

I think we have a *healthy* competition going on in our home... I'd like to to think that we're equally introducing her to our passions - hoping that she shares in them one day:) In case you can't see whats on the T.V. screen - its track and field... of course! (and I promise... we don't usually let her sit this close to the television).

I still can't get over how much hair Eden has - it seems to grow so much every week. We're starting to get a real problem on our hands though - this is what the morning bedhead looks like... I need to purchase a few more bows as we've seemed to have lost all of the ones I ordered last summer except the green and purple ones (of course, the ones that match hardly any of her outfits).

So, my last post was (yikes!) 10 days ago! Every week, I have intentions of being better at blogging, but somehow the weeks get away from me so fast:) I will have a winner to the giveaway last week... I'll announce the winner and the name of the bracelets later this week, as well as have the available in the SHOP!!! Thanks for all the great input and to those of you who are already sporting them:)

Morning Sewing and a GIVEAWAY!!!

2009-05-21T13:28:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite ways to spend a morning is to do some sewing. Its even more enjoyable with friends! A few weeks ago, Heather and Jess came over and we spent the morning sewing these adorable skirts for the girls! Such an easy pattern (and FREE from Oliver + S, my favorite!) and easy enough for even the beginner sewer (ahhem, Heather!). It took less than 1/2 yard per skirt, making them so cheap to make! I planned on whipping up a few more of them for Eden!

(photo proof that Heather made Avery's skirt!!!)

And if I have anything to do with it, Eden will learn to sew before she learns to hurdle:) I'm already getting a head start (shh... don't tell Josh!) .

Now for the Giveaway!!!! You all love give-aways, right!? :) I've have these in the works for a few months and have actually sold quite a few already, but I haven't listed them on the website because I can't think of a nifty name... hence where you come in !!! I'd love to give one to whoever can come up with a clever name for these *clever* little bracelets!

Mother's Day Dress

2009-05-11T18:15:00.000-07:00

So for Mother's Day I told Josh I wanted a new dress... so Eden and Josh went shopping on Saturday ...

After a melt-down in Target, I didn't end up with a dress:(

But I did get an hour of solitary sewing and I made this dress...

Am I do old for a pillowcase dress? Because Eden is making it look so inviting and I LOVE this fabric:)

CRAWLING!

2009-05-06T13:23:00.000-07:00

Yes, you read that right - Eden is crawling! I'm sure many of you have seen the video I posted on FB, but in case you haven't, here's the link : http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=620592830215&ref=nf

Its so exciting to see her moving around and getting places - I'm quickly learning how UNchildproofed our house is! I've got to get on that soon.... We had Eden's IFSP (individualized family service plan) evaluation last week and it was so great to see how far she has come since we initiated all of her therapies last year. Last year at this time, Eden wouldn't even reach for toys, roll, or make any sounds... so amazing to see the work God has done in her life!

Eden had her MRI yesterday to look at the ventricles again. Dr. Fuchs said that they looked slightly enlarged, but that the angle the "picutres" were taken at were different than the previous MRI. He explained that this could be the reason they look slightly larger - so he wasn't all too concerned. He does want to do another MRI in 4 months and go from there... until then, we're just monitoring her head size and development (which we've been doing all along) and we'll see him if any more concerns arise - I plan on none:) Thank you so much for praying for Eden - it is evident that God's hand is upon her and that she continues to be lifted up by many!

a favorite of mine:)

The Handmade Market!

2009-04-22T12:47:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to be participating in The Handmade Market next weekend!!! Its my first real craft show and I am so grateful to have been accepted into this one. If you're in Raleigh next weekend, come out and see me (or if you're really up for it, I'm looking for someone to sit with me for a little bit and keep me company!)

So, as promised, I will post a few more crafting projects this week - but not yet... I must finish them first! Off to wash my fabric that just arrived!!!

April?

2009-04-19T13:33:00.000-07:00

I definitely can't believe that April is half gone! I'm quickly learning that once you have kids, time goes alot faster?!?!

Eden is doing great! She is getting places by spinning, rolling and a little "scooting" backwards (they tell me that is the milestone before crawling!). She's also standing at the couch for a LONG period of time. Its so cute and hard to believe that she is doing it all by herself! She stayed there for 5 minutes the other day, just jabbing away! Adorable:)

We spent this Easter with the Cantalupi's and the Miller's which is pretty much like spending it with family. Its hard to imagine not living in the same city as them... I will be sad when the day comes when we no longer live close by (though secreately, I'm praying that we will all "end up" in the same place again!). I cooked a ham, which I had never done before. It turned out quite lovely, though by the end of the week, Josh (and I) were quite tired of ham... Josh wouldn't even eat dinner the night I cooked up the last of it in some soup! It will be a while before I do that again.

Matthew and Eden

(I had to include this picture simply becuase Josh thought it would be funny to take a "tree photo" - Eden is not enjoying it so much... who's laughing now Josh!)

Oh, how she loves her daddy!

I'm beginning to appreciate handmade things (as if you didn't already know that!!) I have had this little handknit sweater that one of my grandmother's friends gave her when she was first born and she hasn't been able to wear it until now... but I LOVE IT and it was perfect for Easter!

Oh, and Tampa! Yes, we loved it! Beautiful city and great weather. Hard to imagine that we may live a few minutes from the beach one day!!! At this point in our journey, we are praying and seeking job opportunities (if you know anyone in Tampa - let us know!). Our friends the Perry's and the Tuckers are moving in a few short days and hopefully us and a few more NW couples will join them soon!

Stay tuned for a few crafting posts this week! I'm gearing up for a craft fair on May 3rd and have lots of new photos and projects to show you:)

And please keep Shepherd in your prayers! His mommy took a picture of him in a little hospital gown I made for him. He's absolutely adorable in it!

Prayer for Shepherd...

2009-04-15T14:27:00.000-07:00

I planned a long update today, but my camera won't upload my photos for some reason, and I know most of you don't want to read a blog without photos of Eden:) So today, I wanted to ask you all to pray for a precious little guy named Shepherd. He is the son of a dear friend here who we were in small group with for a few years. She is dear to my heart and their family would appreciate your prayers. You can read his story HERE.

Hopefully, I"l have a blog later this week, once Josh gets the camera in proper working order... lots of Easter and beach pictures to post!

Tampa, here we come....

2009-04-05T15:09:00.000-07:00

We are headed to Tampa this week for a little R&R and a lot of prayerful consideration. Many of you may have caught wind already that we may be moving to Tampa this summer! To back up a little, ever since God changed our plans to move oversees after the birth of Eden, the Lord has begun to soften our hearts to state-side church-planting. Until about two months ago, we had no idea where that might be. At the same time, our church was beginning to form two church planting teams, one to D.C. and one to Tampa. Over the course of about a week, Josh and I both felt a strong pull to Tampa and as we began to pray more and learn more about the need in Tampa, our hearts grew. So, here we are, taking a trip to the city which might soon become home. Its so crazy to think about the next chapter in our lives, but so exciting to be a part of God's church in Tampa. You can see the beginnings of the church-plant by clicking HERE.

The past week has been crazy and we are so glad to have a break from here for a few days. Eden had her 15 month check up this week and weighed in at a whopping 17.2 lbs:) Darn weight limit on car seats... she must stay rear facing for now. She got her 1 year shots (MMR, Varicella, and Prevnar) - we held them last time since she was sick... but little did we know, she was coming down with something this time too. Tuesday and Wednesday were pretty crummy since she just got her shots. She'd also been coughing all week, which began to get worse. Friday, I thought we were on the uphill and started dreaming of spending our weekend outside, when Josh noticed Eden's neck was swollen... not to mention it was Friday at 5:30, so the office was closed:( We decided to take her to the local hospital's ED since I didn't think it should wait until the next day. We thought we'd get some antibiotics and be sent home... well....

EIGHT hours and a HORRIBLE ER experience later, we went home and took her to Duke the next day. Of course, they said a course of antibiotics would treat what they called lymph gland adenitis. Needless to say, our weekend wasn't spent outdoors :( - but that just makes me even more ready for our trip to Tampa!!!!

So, many of you may have seen our video on my last post, but Eden has figured out how to sit up on her own and starting to pull up a little too... its quite cute:) Here's a few pictures the afternoon I first found her sitting up on her own...

I've got to teach the girl some manners...

And she's stuck again... I have no idea how she keeps doing this...

Have a wonderful week.. more when we return!

Check Out our BIG Girl...

2009-03-29T12:27:00.000-07:00

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=586452607495

A Belated Birthday Wish

2009-03-27T12:30:00.001-07:00

My sister's birthday was two days ago and I had all intentions of wishing her big happy birthday then, but like most of my blogging... its a little late:) So with no further ado...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESS!!!!

And of course, a birthday gave me an excuse for some sewing... I was most eager to share this FREE pattern with you but had to wait until I knew she had received her gift! From the moment I saw this pattern on this blog, I knew I had to make one. It only took a few nights to finish and was really easy to follow. The only problem was it was so cute, I didn't want to give it up... I guess I will just have to make myself one now:)

I don't have many new photos to share... we've been spending most days indoors as its been rainy and dreary... oh how I can't wait for spring! We did manage a play-date last week though with three other girls I used to work with at Jeffers and Mann. It was our first trip to Pullen Park and will definitely not be our last!

Yesterday, I ended up making these homemade Thin Mints which turned out pretty good! MUCH easier to make than the Samoas, but I think the Samoas tasted more like the real thing than the Thin Mints. Either way though, they're pretty darn good cookies!

As Promised...

2009-03-19T13:26:00.000-07:00

So, I promised on FB a few days ago that I would post the recipe for HOMEMADE GIRL SCOUT COOOKIES!!!!! I found the recipe HERE a few weeks ago and just couldn't wait to try my hand at them. Well, Tuesday posed a wonderful day for baking! I will first say that they turned out wonderful and taste just like the real thing... but if you want to try - know that you will spend ALL afternoon in the kitchen:) I might try the samoas bars next time. Thin mints are definitely next on my list...

I also had my first attempt at Risotto. I kept coming across yummy sounding risotto, so I took the plunge this week. It might be a new favorite in my house:) Eden and Josh both approved of this Asparagus and Lemon Risotto.

We've resumed all her therapies this week and it proved to be a busy one:) We did manage to squeeze in a few playdates though and Eden's first ever Track Meet! I don't think we have any appointments coming up though next week, though come to think of it, I do need to schedule her 15month check up.... crazy!

Well... don't forget the sale in the shop.... FREE WRIST CUFF with every purchase until Monday. Just mention the blog in Notes to Seller.

Happy Thursday.

2009-03-17T08:48:00.000-07:00

I think I've mentioned before that I was reading "Trusting God" by Jerry Bridges. Well, I am almost done and considering reading it again because there is so much good stuff in there... but it seems like there are so many people in my life right now that I could pass it along to. This past weekend was quite a weekend to trust in God's sovreignty. I decided this morning to go back and reread certain sections in "Trusting God" to remind me where my hope is. I wanted to share a few short passages with you:

"God does not delight in causing us to experience pain or heartache. He always has a purpose for the grief He brings or allows to come into our lives. Most often we do not know what that purpose is, but it is enough to know that His infinite wisdom and perfect love have determined that the particular sorrow is best for us. God never wastes pain. He always uses it to accomplish His purpose. And His purpose is for His glory and our good. Therefore, we can trust Him when our hearts are aching or our bodies are racked with pain." Jerry Bridges

"I would rather be what God chose to make me than the most glorious creature that I could think of; for to have been thought about, born in God's though, and then made by God, is the dearest, grandest and most precious thing in all thinking." "If we have physical or mental disabilities or impairments, it is because of God in His wisdom and love created us that way. We may not understand why God chose to do that, but that is where our trusting Him has to begin." George MacDonald and Jerry Bridges

I am so thankful that Eden is doing well and has recovered quickly. My request today from you is that you would pray for a few sweet children who have been on my heart this week. I learned this past week Charlotte and Preston's stories.... they both brought back a flood of emotions into my heart that have not been far removed. You can read both their stories by clicking on their names. We also found out about some heartbreaking news of a family member, but I must get permission before I say anything on the blog. You were all so faithful in praying for Eden - so would you please now pray for them.

I decided to post this today because it is, well, where I am at the moment.... learning and trying to trust God in the difficult circumstances and hoping to provide a glimpse of encouragement to anyone else facing them. I know that God is Good... all the time. I know that you have been faithful to pray for Eden, and I know that these families would appreciate your faithful prayers as well!

she may look just like josh....

2009-03-11T18:20:00.001-07:00

but she's got my tastebuds:

So I introduced Eden to the infamous "BBQ Chicken, Twice Baked Potatoes and Yeast Rolls" meal this week (since I HAD to make it for Heather when she came home from the hospital). Needless to say, Eden was a huge fan! The *secret* BBQ sauce is a family recipe (my grandma's) that I've shared with only a few people, but has been cooked oh so many times, mostly by Mama Cita and enjoyed by many. Eden finished 1/2 a piece of chicken, a whole twice baked potato and a yeast roll!

Speaking of Heather... I'd like to introduce miss Charlotte to you: Isn't she adorable!!!!

And I got to watch Avery while Heather was in the hospital...

The past few days have been spent mostly outdoors, or inside with all the windows open - the best way to spend the day I think. I've managed lots of photos! Yah! I took this photo today after her visit with Dr. Fuchs... the bandage and stitches are all gone - she was pretty excited about it:)

As I mentioned in the last post... I've been up to a little sewing lately too ( I know... big surprise!) Here's my latest (and new favorite) creation.... the Mama Chic Wrist Cuff. Its a FREE pattern by JCasa! Its a very simple, easy to follow pattern... I'm in love:) I've already made a few for myself and a few for my neighbor... and I'm offering one to you too!!!! Every order from my shop from now until 3/23 will receive a Wrist Cuff with their purchase! Just mention my blog in "notes to seller"!

2009-03-08T05:59:00.000-07:00

Just a few photos since I finally got my camera charged:)

First Time eating Pizza:) and sporting her new little outfit from "aunt" Ali

The Back

The Front (this one's going to hurt coming off - its all in her hair:( )

Eden and Josh having lunch... they always play games across the table... its quite funny... one day I'll get a video of it:)

Ooops...

2009-03-06T11:36:00.000-08:00

So I promised a picture last night and I forgot:( I did take some pictures and was going to post them now, but the camera is dead... again... my fault, I think I left the camera on yesterday (shhh... don't tell Josh - I'll get in trouble!). I still don't think I've caught up on my sleep.

Anyway... Its a gorgeous day, I'm sitting outside as I type. Eden's down for nap #2 and I'm thinking about a nap myself. Not much new to report in regards to her surgery... we go back next Wednesday for Dr. Fuchs to check her incision and remove her stitches. Then another MRI in 6 weeks to see how her body is doing keeping the fluid absorbed on its own.

On a crafting note... I found this giveaway through my friend Melissa's Blog... The Benner Daily is giving away free fabric!!! I couldn't give up this chance to enter! Check it out by clicking here.

WE'RE HOME!

2009-03-05T05:33:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the lack of post(s) yesterday. I was busy getting ready to take Eden home and then *oops* left my computer in my friends car after we got home.

I don't think I'm the only one who was SO GLAD to be home... Eden played for quite a while on the floor by herself yesterday, just smiling and laughing... and then she made it most of the night without waking up . I gave her pain medication before she went to bed and once in the middle of the night and otherwise, she slept so soundly! I think we were both glad to be back in our own beds - what a difference that makes!

I'm looking forward to a *lazy* day at home, catching up on laundry, cleaning, and playing... and I'm hoping to get a little sewing done too:) I've got a few projects I researched while at the hospital and I'm eager to get started.

Well - I promise a new picture by the end of the day:) I must find a way to comb her hair first!

Steph

The Drain is OUT!

2009-03-03T10:18:00.000-08:00

Dr. Fuchs came by this morning and gave me good news! Her ICPs were stable all night and he thinks that the high pressures yesterday were "faulty". Her MRI looked great and another doctor just came in to take the drain out.... Can I just take a minute to tell you know STRONG my little girl is:) The doctor pulled a tube out of her brain and stitched up her scalp and she didn't even cry - just kept sucking away on that passy and looking at me... I love this kid!

They had to sedate her for the MRI - so I sense alot of sleeping going on today... probably for both of us... though I will say I did sleep well last night (thanks to those of you who prayed I would get some sleep!). We had a wonderful nurse last night who was able to work in the dark and didn't have to change her diaper at 4am:) Maybe we'll get her back tonight!

The plan is to go home tomorrow morning (we heard talks of today... but I don't forsee that happening). I'm so ready to be home... 5 days has been long enough! I was thinking this morning of how ready I am to get out of here... and was quickly reminded of all my sweet patients on the bone marrow unit who spent months in this place:( I have a new appreciation for all those families!

Since so many of you that read our blog are still praying for us, I thought I'd take a minute to ask you to pray for my friend Heather... she's *overdue* with little Charlotte and I'd love for Charlotte to be born on my birthday!

Its Late... I'm Tired... so just a little update to let you know we're still here...

2009-03-02T18:57:00.000-08:00

at Duke that is. Its been a long day. No MRI - it was canceled because they were short staffed. We are planning to have it at 8:00 tomorrow morning. Since the night shift nurse came in and "re-zeroed" Eden's drain, her pressures have been back where they were this morning (prior to the day shift nurse messing with it). I'm convinced that her high pressures may have had something to do with the way the nurse had it set... I've got some questions for them tomorrow:)

This picture is mainly for Gigi, PopPop, Nana and Papa Joe - just to let you know all know that Edens been more like herself today:

A more positive post tomorrow... I promise... it is of course my birthday:)

Monday Morning

2009-03-02T09:49:00.000-08:00

Its monday morning... and it defintitely feels like a monday. The fact that I didn't sleep last night probably isn't helping my attitude. Eden is hanging in there. She had a great day yesterday with her drain clamped and her pressures had been stable. Dr. Fuchs came by this morning and said everything looked good and we would do an MRI to make sure the "inside" looked good too. About 2 hours after he came by though, Eden's pressures (in her brain) have been increasing. The nurse came in and opened the drain since they stayed increased for more than 5 minutes. They paged the doctor and one of the residents came in to check her out. She said she looked good and they reset her parameters and clamped the drain again. We're watching her closely today to see how her pressures do. If they keep going up with the drain clamped, the chances of Eden needing a shunt will increase. Just waiting now to her from Dr. Fuchs himself as to what he thinks.

On another note, it snowing here so Josh got out of school today and is here with us! YAH... I needed some relief today after a night of unneeded interruptions (diaper changes at 1am and 4am, an extra blood draw because the nurse "forgot a lab"). Off to *maybe* get some rest before the MRI... updates to follow

Steph

A long morning

2009-03-01T09:36:00.001-08:00

Eden had a fairly good night - by that I mean I wasn't up all night with her... but don't be fooled, I don't think my sleep amounted to much. She woke up pretty uncomfortable however. I don't think she got much pain medicine last night since she and I were both sleeping and the pain medication was "scheduled" but "as needed". So, it took us a while this morning to get her pain under control. She's been asleep now for almost an hour - PRAISE THE LORD! She just can't seem to settle and wants me or Josh to be right by her face when she's awake.

I talked with her doctor this morning and her pressures were a little higher than he expected last night and her drain put out a littl more too so they are going to watch her today to see how she does with the drain clamped. If her pressures go up and stay up, we'll have to open the drain back up and will be here until her pressures stabilize. If they don't stabilize, we'll have to start talking about a shunt. PLEASE PRAY that her body is doing a good job of reabsorbing the fluid on its own and that her pressures stay where Dr. Fuchs wants them (right now they are). So far, all her cultures are negative and she has been without fever for 24 hours now. Thanks for your prayers for that and continue to pray that her body stays free of infection.

I've been reading some of Jerry Bridges' book, Trusting God while we've been here. I'm reminded of God's Soveriegnty and Goodness even in hard times.

"In Him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything in conformity to His will" Ephesians 1:11

5303

2009-02-28T15:11:00.001-08:00

Eden made it to a step down room this afternoon! YAHH!!!! She has been stable all day and they had a bed available so we were able to move - which means I can stay with her tonight! She's still be pretty uncomfortable and sick to her stomach, but considering all... I think she's doing great!

No word on the cultures. Her fever has not returned today which is a good sign. We're still not sure how much longer she'll have to stay. The plan tomorrow is to clamp the temporary ICP (intracranial pressure) and see how she does. I think another MRI is in her future tomorrow to see how the fluid does with the drain clamped. If the fluid stays stable... the drain will be pulled and we'll be headed home. Please continue to pray that she heals well, stays free of infection and that the fluid remains absorbed.

Thanks again for your prayers, notes, cards, phone calls, emails and messages on facebook. They have been great encouragement and we have read every one.

Maybe a picture tomorrow once I get her cleaned up a bit (the vomiting today was not conducive to photos!).

Steph, Josh and Eden

Saturday : 11am

2009-02-28T08:09:00.000-08:00

I just left Eden's room so Nana and Papa Joe could visit a little. Eden looks great this morning. She's much more wide-eyed and even drank some milk for me. She did have a fever early this morning again so they decided to take blood cultures, urine cultures, and culture her spinal fluid... but her fever was down when we got here. Fever isn't uncommon for up to 24 hour after surgery, but they just want to make sure that she doesn't have an infection somewhere. Please continue to pray that her body stays FREE OF INFECTION and continues to heal well.

THanks again... and if this is the first blog check this morning for you, scroll down - I posted a few pictures earlier.

Steph, Josh and Eden

Quiet Night

2009-02-28T06:29:00.000-08:00

Not much new to report. I got some sleep last night and never got a call from the PICU... so no news is good news at this point. We're waiting for visiting hours to start and to get to go back and see her again. We'll keep the updates coming today... thanks again for praying.

Steph, Josh, and Eden

2:30pm

2009-02-27T11:35:00.000-08:00

Eden's surgery went as well! She's in her room (in the PICU) and seems comfortable. She's quite drowsy, but in good spirits. I'm sure any of us would be crying in pain considering:)

Thank you for all your prayers this morning. I have been humbled by just how many people from near and far (as far as half way around the world!) have been praying. People we know well and people we don't know at all... Thank you.

At this point, we would appreciate your prayer for her healing.. that her little body would heal well and stay clear of infection. We are also praying for the fluid to stay absorbed and no reaccumulate (this will be the real test if the procedure was successful) - we won't know this until a few months from now... so this will be an ongoing prayer.

All glory to HIM...

Steph, Josh, and Eden

7:30

2009-02-27T05:23:00.000-08:00

Eden's surgery started this morning at 7:30. They said it is expected to last 2-3 hours. Please be in prayer today for our sweet little one as Dr. Fuchs operates on her ventricles. (see below for specific requests).

Thanks again... another update promised soon.

Steph, Josh and Eden

And the Updating Begins...

2009-02-26T12:33:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is Eden's surgery day. We don't know the time yet... we're hoping for early! I have been so humbled already by all the emails, calls, cards, and kind words you have all been sending. I am confident that the Lord is walking ahead of us and preparing this road for us. I am thankful that He knows Eden so intimately and that He will give wisdom to Dr. Fuchs tomorrow as he preforms her surgery.

Please pray these things for her and her doctors:

1. For complete and perfect healing - that this will "solve" the problem and she will not require a shunt.

2. That the Lord will protect her mind for harm = so that she can come to know Him one day.

3. For Dr. Fuchs and the other medical staff taking care of her - that they would be wise in their decisions and actions and know exactly how to take care of her.

4. That she would have a quick recovery - free from infection.

5. That the Lord would grant Josh and I opportunities to share about His goodness in our lives in the midst of difficult circumstances.

From day one, our prayer for Eden has been Colossians 1:9-10... and again, I find myself praying it - asking that the Lord would continue to fulfill this in her life:

" And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you (Eden), asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in ALL spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God."

We will keep the blog updated frequently. Thank you again for your continued prayers!

Josh, Steph, and Eden

A Few New Talents

2009-02-25T06:40:00.000-08:00

I abosulutely love watching Eden try and figure out new things. It brings me such joy to watch her do things new - things we have been teaching her... things we wondered at one point if she might ever do. It reminds me of how much God loves to answer our prayers!

Learning to "army crawl"

She's also learning to pull things out of a bucket! We bought her a little cookie jar toy that plays the most annoying song - I think Josh and I could both sing it to you on demand (but we won't!). Eden loves it though!

Hairbows, Meatballs, and Cup Drinking.

2009-02-15T13:43:00.000-08:00

Thats what's been new around here... along with a nasty ear infection, but I wanted to add something light hearted today!

Eden FINALLY has enough hair for real hairbows (well, real meaning a clippie). I was so excited when I realized this, I ran upstairs and tried most of the bows we have in her hair:) I managed one picture...

I'm trying to add some variety to Eden's diet and get creative with higher caloried foods... come to find out she LOVES meatballs... I guess she should since I religiously ate spaghetti (with the occasional meatball) while I was pregnant (La Forresta anyone?). At feeding therapy last week, we were talking about other meats to try - they gave her "turkey sticks" - YUK! To close to vienna sausages if you ask me and just the thought of those makes me want to puke. She like them, but I'm hoping for some other alternatives. She's also a fan of mexican - she ate half of the "inside" of a chicken taco today at lunch! I was totally shocked... guess we'll be eating more mexican:)

We've also been trying some modified cup drinking in feeding therapy (you can see her little cup in the photo below). She's still not keene on the bottle and even less thrilled about a sippy cup. Our feeding therapist at Duke gave us a "honey bear" which is literally a honey bear that honey comes in with a straw out the top - needless to say, she didn't like that very much either... actually I think she's scared of it:) So, they suggested we try cup feeding again (we attempted it a while back, but it was VERY messy). Though she's not too proficient at it, she thinks its hilarious that she can drink from a cup. She giggles every time I put it on her tray.

Bath time is becoming a favorite too (of mine and Eden's)! She loves playing in the water and "splashing". I don't take many tub pictures, but this one's appropriate (sorry for the cotton balls in her ears... that the new routine now with her ear tubes)...

I've been up to a lot of crafting lately too... Here's my latest. Its a basket for an auction our church is doing to raise money for missions. In the basket: List Taker, Journal Cover, Set of 12 Notecards, Prayer Journal, and Coffee Cozy... I'd love to know what you think and if you think a set like this would sell? I'm considering one for the shop.

Well... thats enough for today. We've got a week for playdates so it should be nice... we'll update more this week!

Nothing New... whew...

2009-02-11T12:53:00.000-08:00

(Eden was very excited about her valentine from Nana and Papa Joe)

So, nothing new to report! Yeah. We're just hanging out enjoying the weather - its been BEAUTIFUL here. Eden and I enjoyed a walk to the post office yesterday - I love the fact that we can walk to the post office:) It was a little windy and I think E would have preferred no wind, but I loved it and it was nice to get outside for a while. As I type, Eden and I are sitting on the front porch just enjoying this nice *unseasonal* weather. What a nice break from winter! God knew I needed a little sunshine to brighten my spirit.

I wanted to share a verse that my pastor mentioned during his sermon this week.

"He will dwell with them and they will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away... Behold, I am making all things new... these words are trustworthy and true."

Revelation 21:3-5

Larry reminded us that there will be a day when all wrongs will be made right! As many times as I've said "why Eden God?" and "this isn't fair" - I trust in knowing that God is the justifier of all wrongs and one day - all things will be made right! No more suffering - no more crying! Oh, I can't wait for that day... but Scripture tells us we can taste of that justification now! In this I find hope. I know it doesn't seem fair and I pray every day that Eden would be COMPLETELY healed, but I know that if God doesn't choose to heal her completely now - one day she will be restored to perfection - the way God intended for all His creation!

Here's my new crafts... what do you think?

Prayer Journal - I'm keeping record of God's answers to prayers this year!

Verse/Prayer Pouch (because I haven't come up with a cool name yet). It holds index cards that I'm writing verses and prayer requests on to keep in my purse for easy access! (Sorry my finger's in the way - I broke the snap and it won't stay shut).

What to Say ?

2009-02-07T08:09:00.000-08:00

I've titled the blog, "what to say?" because at the moment, I really don't know what to say. We got the results of Eden's MRI this week. To back up a little, we had the MRI done to recheck her spine from the surgery she had done in October (to release the tethered cord). The spine looked great - everything healed nicely. I had also asked Dr. Fuchs at her last appointment if we could do an MRI of her brain as well since there was so much controversy in her medical records of whether or not she did in fact have Dandy Walker Syndrome. Some of her records said yes, and then some said no (one of the benefits of working at her pedi's office - I get to see the records Duke sends first hand!) With her developemental delays too, I have wondered if an MRI would give us any light as to why she has had them - we've gotten so many theories as to why she has delays. Well, Dr. Fuchs siad it was a good idea to have the MRI done, so he agreed. Well, the MRI showed that she does in fact have hydrocephalus (extra fluid in her ventricles in the brain). We (and Dr. Fuchs) were quite shocked as most kids with hydrocephalus show clinical symptoms such as seizures, enlarged head circumference, downward gazing eyes, etc - none of which Eden shows. This could explain why she has been delayed at meeting milestones and things *could* get better after the surgery she is going to need. I say *could* because doctors of course can't promise anything - especially when it comes to the brain.

So, on Feb 27th, Eden will go back to Duke to have a procedure done called "cyst fenestration" near her 4th ventricle. We have the other option of going straight to a shunt placement (some of you may remember this from when I was preggo - this was the surgery we had planned to have immediately after birth). A shunt will be a little easier, but it is a life-long thing - and could require multiple other surgeries just to maintain it. The hopes with this cyst fenestration is a "one time fix" - that is if it is successful. If its not successful in keeping the fluid at a good level, then they will eventually have to do a shunt. We are opting for the lengthier procedure in hopes that we can avoid a shunt and also at the recommendation on Dr. Fuchs. E will be at Duke for 5-7 days - with at least one night in the PICU.

As I've been trying to process this over the past few days, two verses keep coming to my mind. The first is Psalm 94:19 which says, "When the cares of my heart are many, Your consolations cheer my soul." I know that only the Word of God gives me comfort right now and is the only thing in which I can truly trust. The other is Colossians 4:2-4 "Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. at the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the Word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison = that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak." In God's sweet timing, this past Sunday our pastor spoke on this verse as our church's focus this year: prayer and our part in God's mission. He challenged us to make this year the year that we are devoted to prayer above all other things. I see God's challenge to me already in this as I know prayer will be the only thing that will get us through these difficulties. I want to pray too that I would speak clearly His message, as I often have opportunity to share His goodness simply by telling Eden's story. There is SO MUCH of God in her story - I just need the grace to share it clearly. I just love how perfect God's timing is!

Would you join us this year in devoting to pray - for Eden and other's God has placed on your heart! I've got a few ideas (crafting of course) to help me remember to pray - as soon as I get some photos of them, I'll be sure to share with you!

We will keep the blog updated over the next few weeks with how you can pray for Eden and our family. Thanks so much in advance for your prayers!

Josh, Steph and Eden

Perspective

2009-01-28T06:02:00.000-08:00

So, I was cleaning out Eden's clothes the other day, looking for some things to lend to Charlotte and I found the preemie outfits that Eden wore for a few weeks (maybe even a month!). I held the up next to her and couldn't believe how much she has grown. I get so focused sometimes on how small she is, I forget how much bigger she really is.

I also managed to get a cute picture of Eden in a little tobagan a sweet friend of the Carrolls gave her:

I think this must be Josh's perspective of our family right now:) I found this picture on the camera when I was uploading my pictures!

I've been working on this for a few weeks now and finally have it listed in my shop! I've already got one custom order... I think these may be a hit!

Photos, Photos, and more Photos

2009-01-21T14:34:00.000-08:00

So I took about 150 photos today:) Most of them were stuff for etsy, but I did manage to get a few of Eden too:) I thought I'd share some from today and the past few days. This is mostly for my dad whose in Germany, and from what I've been told, he is checking the blog frequently:)

2009-01-20T15:50:00.000-08:00

We woke up to quite a few inches of snow this morning! It was absolutely beautiful and made for a wonderful day! Of course, they canceled schools, so Josh was home with us and we thoroughly enjoyed the day being stranded here with no agenda. I absolutely LOVE days like this... to bad they only come around once a year... or once every few years.

Eden seemed to enjoy the snow. We only took her out for a little while, as I didn't want to make her miserable. She smiled the whole time with rose cheeks and that runny nose you get when you go outside in the cold. It was quite adorable.

Tomorrow, though, I must get some cleaning done... and maybe some crafting:) I've got a few projects to finish and list on etsy - thats one of my goals for this week! Other than that, we've got a pretty calm week... just an MRI and a pre-op appointment on Friday (MRI to recheck her spinal surgerical site and pre-op for the PE tubes... aka "ear tubes" she's getting in February).

Stay warm and Happy Inauguration Day!

Milestones

2009-01-17T06:48:00.000-08:00

I've decided that this is one of the funnest things about being a parent to a little one.... seeing them meet milestones. Considering everything Eden has been through, I am so much more appreciative of her meeting milestones that I think I would have been otherwise. These past few weeks, I feel like Eden has taken off and is meeting little milestones left and right! Here's just a few:

FINGER FEEDING! Yes... my baby is big enough to feed herself her own dinner:) She's still quite slow at it, but she's catching on very quickly. She will pick up anything on her tray and shove it in her mouth. It keep her quite entertained and it opens up the door to so many more foods I can give her! As I'm typing she's almost eaten a whole waffle by herself! The only downside I've decided is the clean out routine we now have afterward:(

SHOPPING CARTS: Josh and I were in Target a few weeks ago and Josh didn't want to get the stroller out... I tried to convince him that it was more trouble than its worth to carry her and I wasn't going to carry her through the store, so he said he would. Well, that lasted all of about 3 minutes until Eden got very wiggly... so instead of going out to the car to get the stroller, Josh suggested we put her in the shopping cart. "Shopping cart? She's still a baby!" I thought. Well, to the shopping cart Eden went and she loved it! Now, when I put her in the shopping cart, she grips the handle and just looks around with a big smile on her face! So consequently, I've had to start a new project making her a shopping cart cover... I'm almost done, so I promise pictures on the next post.

MOLARS! Yes... you read that right... Eden has 3... yes, 3 molars. If thats no crazy enough, I never even realized she was getting any of them until I saw the them in her mouth! I've heard so many "horror stories" about teething, I just can't believe how well Eden is doing with hers. Considering all she's been through, I think she's thinking, "teeth, what's the big deals? " Dr. Herriott was quite surprised at her one year check up last week to see them considering she only has two top and two bottom teeth! Just goes to show how Eden likes to do things on her own schedule:)

BIG GIRL CAR SEAT: So finally "upgraded" to a new car seat, though, the little peanut will still have to stay rear facing for a while (4 more pounds to be exact... but who knows how long that will be?).

CRAWLING BABIES CLASS: No, Eden is not crawling... and she's still got a few more "milestones" to meet before she does crawl, but after talking to our children's director at church and Jodi, our developmental therapist, we decided that it would be good for Eden to be in the crawling babies class with kids closer to her age... up til now, she's still been in the bed babies class, but those kids are so small and Eden is just so curious... she's needs a little more stimulation.

So.... there you have it.. our last few weeks. Hopefully I'll get some more pictures soon... when the weather is a little nicer and we can get outside. But for now, stay warm and enjoy the weekend!

I MADE IT TO A GIFT GUIDE!

2009-01-11T13:46:00.000-08:00

For those of you who aren't familiar with Etsy, this won't be a big deal, but I was pretty excited today to see myself on an Etsy Gift Guide!!! I'm elated... just had to share my excitement with my blogging world!

One Year...

2009-01-06T13:57:00.000-08:00

My baby is one... its hard to believe and I am still amazed at how fast the past year went by! And so along with the birthday come the big "one year check - up"! Eden had here's today so I thought I'd take the chance to update!

She weighed 16 lbs! My little peanut is GAINING weight.. even if it is at her own little steady pace:) Dr. Herriott was pleased and said to keep up with what we are doing! She's 28.5 inches long - only the 25% so she may not be super tall like her daddy, but thats not such a bad thing for a little girl:) All her other "systems" checked out and we only left with one "new" referral! She had a finger stick to check her hemoglobin and lead - she cried so much.. it was quite sad:( I think she's getting to the age where she is realizing what is going on in a doctors office.... We avoided shots today only because she had an ear infection still and I didn't want to put her through all that! We'll go back in a few weeks for Dr. Herriott to recheck her weight and her ear and then we'll do the shots then.

Eden is doing so well on her belly this week.. I'm SOOO excited for Jenny and Jodi to come this week and see her progress... and I have managed to get a few pictures for you of her new skills! If she keeps up this pace... she'll be crawling in no time!

And of course, you can't get out of reading my blog without a little advertising for my shop! I'm having a SALE right now to make room for new stuff I am working and have up soon. Right now, all LIST TAKERS and COLORING WALLETS are $10! FREE single card with every card set purchase! If you live in Wake Forest, send me a message first and I'll take off the shipping charge! And here's sneak peak of one new item that will be up soon!

Back to Normal

2009-01-03T13:07:00.000-08:00

We're back in NC and things are starting to feel "normal" again... once Josh starts back to work on Monday, I think we'll be back in the swing of things. We had a wonderful Christmas, but it sure was busy! We spend the week of Christmas in TN visiting our family, arriving just in time for Eden to get a cough and fever for three days (Christmas Eve, Christmas day and of course her Birthday - what are the odds)! We thought she was getting better after her fever had broken, only to see it return the day before we left TN. So, I called the Jeffers and Mann and took her in the next day to see Dr. Covington. And what would you know - it was an ear infection:( Poor thing flew all the way to NC with a buldging ear drum and never made a peep (have I mentioned before how much of a trooper she is!). A few days of amoxicillin and she is finally feeling and acting more like herself!

She made some progress yesterday at physical therapy - Eden did some "side sitting" and some transitioning from sitting to the floor! She is also doing a little more on her belly as well! She did this so much better (and with much better spirit) than before. I was thrilled for her and we're going to work hard on it this week and impress Miss Jenny and Miss Jodi next week! I'll have to get a picture soon of her side sitting and let you all see my little star!

Here are a few pictures from the past few weeks... sorry there aren't any from our trip to TN - we forgot our camera:)

Josh took this one and I think its a fun picture!

Eden's thinking... "dad... don't take my photo!"

Eden at our small group Christmas party

The worst dirty santa gift to receive... a framed photo of Josh - compliments of Wakefield Highs School yearbook pictures!

Eden and Josh ready for the Christmas party - notice Josh's attire... don't ask:)

And here's what's new in my shop! I found this etsian (yes, thats a real word!) a few months ago who made me some handmade paper from my scraps! I really wanted to learn to make paper, but after researching a little - I quickly decided I did not have the space in our tiny little townhome for it! They turned out beautiful and I'm so glad she is letting me sell them in my shop! She has handmade paper in her shop (Pulp Art.etsy.com) for sale as well if you want to get crafty with some:) I'm also working on a few new fabric projects that I will be listing soon, and don't worry you'll be first to know!

Happy Birthday Eden

2008-12-26T17:49:00.000-08:00

Eden Meets Steeplechase

2008-12-23T14:13:00.000-08:00

So, I still can't upload videos here... boo blogger. But I was successful in uploading them to facebook (well, technically Josh was successful). So check out this link and have a merry Christmas!

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=570491124435

Look what Eden Did...

2008-12-19T11:26:00.001-08:00

For WEEKS (maybe months) now, we have been working on getting Eden to hold two objects in her hands while playing and then "banging" them together. Every time we gave her a toy, she'd drop what was in her hand to get the next toy... it was almost humorous how she just would NOT hold on the the first toy. Today during physical therapy, we caught Eden holding two toys at the same time! Yahhhhh Eden! Jenny and I decided that she while she doesn't like to do things on command, if we talk and ignore her, she will do a lot more things:) Now I'm wondering what all she does when I'm not watching!

These were from our "photo shoot" earlier today...

And then here's what I've been up to:) Yesterday was a day FULL of cooking, crafting and wrapping. I had a few baby recipes to try for Eden... Here's chicken, apples and sweet potatoes and Chicken, broccoli and squash... she's tried both (and I actually tried them both) and seemed to like them!

Some fun coasters and journals I made from one of my new favorite books "Last Minute Patchwork Gifts"...

And my first ever handbag... from keykalou... her shop is on etsy... and she has lots of different fun patterns!

For all you cloth diaper mamas...

2008-12-16T17:12:00.000-08:00

Here's a quick post for all my cloth diapering friends... Cotton Babies has clearanced Bum Genius 3.0s right now for $12! They have some other styles as well... I just ordered 7 diapers for less than $80 (including shipping). Poor Eden, getting diapers for Christmas:) (thanks Nana and Papa Joe!)

Christmas at our house...

2008-12-14T13:59:00.000-08:00

So we've been busy these past few weeks, getting ready for Christmas. I wish I was doing a better job of blogging, but here's what we have been up to instead:

Exploring the Christmas Tree..

Loving the Christmas tree...

Becoming a drama queen... note the pouty face... she's cutting a few top teeth, so I'll attribute the "drama" to that.

LOVING our Advent calendar Gigi made... here's E opening some spoons:)

And playing, lots of playing...

And me, getting sentimental! I always thought it was a silly idea that my parents got us ornaments every year.... well, this year when I put the Christmas tree up, I began to realize how glad I was that I had all those ornaments and decided to start the tradition with E... so I immediately went to etsy to see what I could find and here's what I found. I loved it so much, I returned to this shop and bought a few more items which a few of my readers might be getting for Christmas:)

I'm staying busy with etsy orders these days... when I'm not with E on the floor, you will probably find me at my craft table sewing or cutting away! Here's some Christmas cards for a sweet friend:

And the beginning of a batch of 15 list takers, yes... 15! I had sold out of all of the ones I had in my shop, so decided to make a whole bunch more: I'll be listing them slowly, so check back... and if you want one you see here, but not in the shop, just ask!

I also just realized that I forgot to update on Eden's evaluation a few weeks ago at Duke... well, it resulted in yet another:) evaluation.... they sent us to Lenox Baker Children's Hospital (its assocaited with Duke) to see their "feeding expert" team which consisted of a feeding therapist and occupational therapist. They spent 2 hours with Eden, watching her eat and play... needless to say it was VERY thourough. Their conclusion was that she doesn't really need feeding therapy!!! They agreed with Dr. Herriott (who I took Eden to see the day before, our pediatrician) in that now she's almost a year old and is transitioning to solids, the number of ounces she takes isn't so important. You don't know who freeing this was for me!!!! For the past few months, I've thought... if I could just feed her solids all day, she'd eat. Well... thats what we're going to do and see how her weight does. So far, she's eating lots! I've already had to go the grocery store an extra time just to get some more food that she could eat. So even though she doesn't need feeding therapy according to Duke, we're going to go back once a month for occupational therapy and feeding "follow-up". I think this is a great plan and am SOOOO glad I got a second opinion on her feeding issues! I definitely won't wait this long next time I feel a second opinion is warrented!

Okay, Eden's screaming for more cottage cheese... so I must go... but hope you all enjoyed the update! Merry Christmas!

Finally... another update!

2008-12-02T17:18:00.000-08:00

We are all three home and together again! Thirteen days apart is long enough! But I have to say, I had a wonderful trip to TN, visiting with everyone and taking some much needed rest - And I'll speak for Josh and say that he had a wonderful trip to Africa and enjoyed his visit with Staci as well.

Here's a link to his pictures if you want to browse through the few "hundred" he took!

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2005292&l=3cc48&id=176300477

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2005224&l=cddc7&id=176300477

Sadly though, Eden and I didn't take many pictures while we were there, so here's all I have to post from our trip:

Not much else is new here... we have another visit at Duke tomorrow for a second opinion on Eden's feeding issues... we'll keep you posted on how it goes. Thanks again for checking on us!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-23T18:21:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd take the chance to update and wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving. Eden and I are in TN visiting family and having lots of fun. Our trip started out a little rough when I got the stomach bug... yuk... thankfully my mom was here and took Eden and I slept for 24 hours straight. I am feeling MUCH better though, thankfully! Today, Eden and I went to the 'boro to see Nana and Papa Joe which is always fun and I think we are going to take it easy the rest of the week and enjoy a week with NO doctors appointments:)

Many of you know that Josh is spending the week in Africa hosting Runners Camp!!! (don't worry, he's not attempting this alone, there is a team there!) He sent me a few pictures (which I can't upload right now, but I will later) and it is stunning - they have already had one race and just looking at pictures, I know that he is LOVING his time there already... there's not much he loves more than running!! I read this this morning and thought I would share it here and ask you all to pray for him while he is gone. (Its from John Piper's book, "Pierced by the Word":

Great God of overflowing grace,
move our hearts to pray for
Your saving power among the nations,
Burden us with the plight of people who
have no access to the Gospel,
Grant us to pray big, global
God-sized, Bible-saturated prayers.
Don't let us lose sight of the one lost sheep nearby.
But, O Father, give us a passion for Your
Worldwide purpose to call Your sheep from
every people of the earth.
For the glory of Christ
and in His Name we pray, Amen.

On the ETSY front... I've had lots of sale lately which is very exciting... and I was even more excited this morning when I realized I was featured on a blog I frequently read!!!! The author also happens to be the owner of a fabric shoppe I have bought from.... Check it out by clicking the link below (note... she update much more frequently than me, so you many have to scroll back a few days to find me - I was featured on 11.22.08)

This One's About Eden.

2008-11-10T17:56:00.000-08:00

I realized that the past few posts were about my crafts... so I'm dedicating this blog soley to the rightful star!

Eden has been doing wonderfully since her surgery. We went for her follow last week with Dr. Fuchs and he said she looked great... he was impressed with how much she was using her legs and moving around. We are going to do another MRI in February to make sure everything "inside" is healing properly.

We've started a new therapy... hearing therapy... though I still don't know exactly what we will be doing... the first two times the therapist came, she just did evaluations and went over those results. So this week should be our first "therapy" session. And I think we're about to let go of feeding therapy. I just don't feel like its doing anything for Eden and its been 5 months or so now that we've been doing feeding therapy... I think we've decided that Eden is just going to have her way when it comes to eating and I must learn not to stress over her weight. I think this might make life a little less stressful for me for a while.

I've cut back my hours at work to just one day a week. I've wanted to be able to do this for a while, but the timing was finally right when Eden had her last surgery. Things had just gotten so crazy with all her doctors visits and such that even my measly old two days a week was getting a little overwhelming for me. Hopefully this will slow us down a little as well.

We are all three excited about the next few weeks to come. Eden and I are traveling home to TN for a FEW days. I can't wait!!!! And Josh will be leaving to go to N. Africa with our church. He is very excited and I am excited for him to have this opportunity. Missions is at the center of his heart and I know that it is a little dissappointing to him that we are not going to be on the field ourselves so for him to be able to go for trips like this is such a blessing. Not to mention that he gets to coach a track and field camp for 400-500 little kids! Its been sweet to see the Lord train our hearts on how to be involved in missions even while we are here in the states.

Eden is sitting all by herself these days! She never missed a step with her surgery - if anything she is doing "more" now that she was prior... Makes you wonder... She still topples on occasion, but for the most part will stay upright. Though she is still my cuddler, she is becoming more and more antsy when we are holding her. Josh and I keep saying if she knew how to crawl - she'd be everywhere. A sweet friend at church gave me a new perspective on things this weekend. We were talking about all the obstacles Eden has gone through and the delays she has and she encouraged me to enjoy the time that I have where she is still dependent upon me and to use the time I have now while she's not into everything. She reminded me that many parents would love more time like this with their little ones... since they don't stay this small forever... so for now.. we're just going to enjoy the non-crawling, non-walking, non-backtalking moments!

And of course, the post wouldn't be complete without a few pictures!

Eden enjoying Halloween in her Tutu - she really did wear it all day!

One of my new favorites of my two favorites

Eden eating like she's baby monkey - we thought it was hilarious! Maybe no one else will find it funny, but it was at the moment!

Out for a walk (wish I could say jog... but it was definitely a walk). I LOVE this new skully (josh told me to use this word since I didn't know how to spell tabogan?).

I have lots more pictures, but blogger is being EXTREMELY slow and won't let me load the rest.. so I'm calling it a night and I'll hopefully post more pictures laster this week!

Craft Fair Success

2008-11-01T19:31:00.000-07:00

The Craft Fair was a HUGE success today! Thanks for all who came out and visited. And a very special thanks to all who bought something:) by far the most popular item was the Children's Coloring Wallet - I sold them all within the first two hours and had quite a few people come back to get one only to find them all gone:( If I had only known how popular they would have been, I would have made many more! I don't even think I had the chance to "debut" them on the blog, so I'm taking the opportunity now:

And don't worry - if you didn't get one today, its not too late. I am making more and will have them up on the website soon. And I'll even let you take advantage of the craft sale price ($10) - just mention the sale or my blog in the note to seller when ordering and wait for a revised invoice (or just email me and I'll make you a special listing). Here are a few fabrics I just bought and can't wait to create with. If you see one and want a custom order, just let me know!

Here are a few other pictures from my "shop" today. I wish I had brought my camera to get a picture of the table... oh well, maybe next time. I have a few List Takers left and plenty of card sets (I did sell a lot of cards, but I had about 40 sets to begin with). The ones that I have left will be up on etsy later this week, so be sure to check back soon!

I also wanted to mention a blog I've started following, primarily because I think she's a brilliant crafter and she also takes amazing pictures of her crafts! She just so happens to be the designer of these List Takers and Coloring Wallets (she has the tutorials available for purchase on her etsy site). She is having a giveaway on her blog for one of her handmade quilts!! I'd love to win a pink, brown and orange one for Eden.... check out her blog if you have a free minute (or two or three). www.jchandmade.typepad.com and www.jcasa.etsy.com

In Case You Were Wondering...

2008-10-28T14:24:00.000-07:00

So in case you were wondering what we've been up to since we got home... I thought I'd post a few pictures and let them speak for themselves:)

Playing in PJs and a tutu, because EVERYTHING is more fun with a Tutu on!

Eden now knows how to feed herself... she actually started this in the hospital. She's no pro yet, but is sure does keep her entertained!

Being a happy girl... because she is just that sweet!

First Time brushing her teeth... well, as much brushing you can do with two "barely there" teeth! But my mom would be proud.

And here's where all my crafting mess happens... and at least for this week, the mess stays!

I'll have more pictures later... especially after Friday - I think I'm going to let E wear her halloween costume all day since she won't get to wear it otherwise. And once I get all my crafts done for the craft fair this weekend, I will be sure to post some pictures!

We're HOME!

2008-10-25T18:16:00.000-07:00

Yes, we are home... all three of us.

And shortly after getting home, we all took a nap. It was much needed. Four nights in the hospital is LONG enough.... Though most nights, I just reminded myself of all my sweet families on the bone marrow unit who stayed months on end when their little ones were sick (and I quickly realized 4 nights wasn't bad at all).

Eden is doing GREAT. Dr. Grant (Dr. Fuchs' partner) came by this morning and Eden was sitting up in my lap (it was so great to FINALLY hold her today!) and he took a look at her incision and said she looks great and gave us the okay to go home as soon as E peed:) Well, 12 oz and 6 hours later, she finally peed and we finally got to go home. At that point, Josh was ready to stay another night so he could watch the UT vs Alabama game.... I told him he could gladly stay, but I was going home. Don't worry though, he's out somewhere watching the game right now.

I'll get some better photos this week up of E. No more hospital photos (photobooth isn't nearly as good as my cannon!). And I'm hoping to get some photos up of some more cards I've been working on and preview some things that I'll have at the Southeastern Craft and Bake Sale this weekend (HINT HINT if you're in WF!).

Goodnight:)

Day 4 - Getting Partway UP

2008-10-24T06:37:00.000-07:00

Today is the day that we will get E half-way up (recline her steel crib 30-45 degrees). As long as she doesn't have any swelling at her incision site and there is no leaking of fluid, she will be able to get up all the way and do "normal" things on Saturday. As long as she tolerates that, Dr. Fuchs said she may be able to go home Saturday afternoon. YAHH!!! I can't wait to hold her and I can't wait to get her home.

On another note, I wanted to share (probably more therapeutic for any other reason) some things I have been reading this week. This year at our church, our pastor has been preaching through the entire Bible, highlighting the Mission of God throughout Scripture. Not coincidentally, last week, he taught through James and 1&2 Peter. James is one of my favorite books of all times (maybe partly thanks to Miss Susie and our mission trips to Knoxville) and so of course I have enjoyed reading that. But I have a new appreciation for 1 Peter. I don't know the last time I read through 1 Peter, but as Larry mentioned in his sermon, its a book for people who are going through trials/suffering. So I have gleaned much from it this week and wanted to share a few passages.

"In this (hope) you now rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuinesness of your faith - more precious than gold that perishes though it is refined by fire - may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Though you have not seen Him, you love Him. Though you do not now see Him, you believe in Him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls" (1:6-9)

"For this is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly.... for to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in His steps." (2:19,21)

"Behold, do no be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share in Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when His glory is revealed." (4:12-13).

"Casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you" (5:7) - (anyone remember this song from Montgomery Village???? Heather, Jess, anyone?? )

So these are just a few of the amazing Scriptures I have found hope and comfort in this week. I often don't think of these difficulties we have gone through with Eden as "sufferings", but as my pastor taught through these books, it became more clear that it is part of the sufferings we face as believers - things that seem unjust, unfair and are just plain difficult to swallow. My pray will continue to be that above all, I bring glory to God. I want to be able to rejoice through this and one day be able to tell Eden how God was so specifically at work in her life when she was just a few months old (and even before, really!). I want this to shape me into a better mother and a better wife. I pray the the Lord is honored with my life.

My favorite song of all time is definitely, "It is Well" - and the words of it have continued to ring in my mind these past few weeks:

"Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, It is well with my soul"

Day 3 - Still Flat

2008-10-23T07:29:00.000-07:00

Eden is doing great... we're headed into day three of still staying flat... hopefully the LAST day she has to stay flat. When Dr. Fuchs said "flat" i thought - flat on her back... but he reassured me (many times) yesterday that it was fine for her to roll back and forth and even play on her side, as long as she is not sitting, or as long as her head is "flat" with her spine. So, she's found a way to keep herself busy and entertained in the crib in only those positions. THough I think today may be more a challenge keeping her entertained... we'll see. She was "whining" last night when Josh got here but we decided that it is definitely an attention getting "whine" rather than a discomfort kind of thing...

Other than the fact that she's in a hospital crib (bright blue steel bars, might I add) and has on a gigantic hospital gown... you'd really never know that she just had major surgery on her spine two days ago. I am so thankful at the way she is recovering and know that it is in large part a result of our prayers (ours = mine and josh's as well as all you reading this). We know that the Lord will continue to keep this sweet baby in His arms and will be faithful to fulfill His promises in her life.

Thanks for checking in...

Steph

Just a Picture

2008-10-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

For All you Early Morning Blog Checkers

2008-10-22T05:07:00.000-07:00

So I thought I'd put a quick post for all you early morning blog checkers. Eden had a GREAT night. I never heard her peep once. And I think I only woke up once (I have NO idea what time it was - but it was early) when one of the neurosurgeons came by to say hi... why do they come by at 4 or 5 in the morning??? I have no idea... but E was sleeping soundly, so I crawled back into my two foot stretch out "chair" and slept for a few more hours. E woke up just a little earlier than she does back home, but nonetheless, woke up in a wonderful mood... ate 4 oz and is now "playing" in her crib... as much playing as you can do flat without any toys about you... Ive requested a mobile, but have yet to see one.. maybe I'll get Josh to bring hers tonight when he comes to visit.

She is doing well, they said today will be the worst in regards to pain. I've requested that they just give her the pain medicine around the clock instead of waiting until she starts hurting. I think that helped overnight. I'll try and update more later, though I hope there's not much new to report:) Maybe I'll post some crafts to pass time...

Steph

My Little Trooper

2008-10-21T10:54:00.000-07:00

Eden is settled into her room here at Duke and is doing quite well. Aside from the hoarse voice, she is acting much like normal. When we met her in the recovery room, she was crying only to stop when we nuzzled up next to her. Such a sweet girl I have:) She has only been crying here and there, but is easily comforted (praise God!) She never gave us a peep the whole way up to the floor (and after many bumps and turns and noises, I'm quite suprised). She has been wide eyed up until a few minutes ago when she started to drift off, only to wake up again. I'm hoping she fall asleep again soon - she looks so sleepy, I know a long nap would do her some good. I am so thankful for her sweet spirit - God knew she would need that sweet spirit to help get her (and ME) through all this! I was even more thankful for this when the child next to us cried uncontrollably the whole time we were in the recovery room!!!

I am reminded why I always loved pediatric nursing - kids are so resilliant and can tolerate WAY more than adults! Dr. Fuchs said that if this were an adult pt, he'd tell them to take off 6-8 weeks of work, but a kid usually bounces back in just a few weeks! If it were me, I'm sure I'd be begging for more than tylenol.... Anyways, I'm just rambling now - I love my sweetie and I thank you all for your prayers today! Please continue to pray this week for her healing and that she would stay free from infection.

Steph

Recovery

2008-10-21T06:52:00.000-07:00

Eden's in recovery. Dr. Fuchs just came to talk to us to let us know that the surgery went well. She is being moved to recovery and we will get to see her soon. He said that they were a little surprised by the cyst when they went in there, it was much larger and on the outside rather than inside the spinal canal. This doesn't change anything regarding her recovery and doesn't mean anything "bad" - just different that they were expecting ("rare" i believe is the term he used... go figure!).

She did great and will be moved to a regular room on the peds surgical floor. He does want her to lay flat for 3 days to prevent any of the spinal fluid from leaking. I asked how you keep a child laying flat and he said that they are pretty smart in learning that it hurts to move so they just don't. I'm assuming this means I can't pick her up, I'll just have lay my head in her crib and snuggle that way.

Praise the Lord for His wisdom and protection over her during the surgery. We are so blessed to have such wonderful doctors (and nurses). Please continue to pray now for her healing and also that she would be kept free from infection (the biggest risk post-op). We will try and post again later today after we have spent some time with her, loved on her, prayed over her and she has had some time to rest and get settled in.

Here's a few pictures from last week, thought everyone might enjoy them in the midst of all my blogging!

7:30

2008-10-21T04:31:00.000-07:00

Thanks for checking in so early on E. They just carried her to the OR and she should be out in 1-2 hours. We will update again once we see her and know how she is doing. Dr. Fuchs said she should be in the hospital 3-4 days.

If you're reading this at 7:30 -9:30 eastern time please lift up a prayer for Eden and that the doctors will have steady hands and her body will tolerate the surgery well.

Thanks again!!

Steph, Josh and E

Surgery

2008-10-16T13:34:00.000-07:00

Little Miss Eden is going to have surgery again. We had an MRI last week to "recheck" her spinal cord (when she was a few months old, they thought it was "tethered" and then we were told it wasn't). Well, the repeat MRI said it definitely is tethered so we went to meet with Dr. Fuchs, the neurosurgeon today. He wanted to do surgery soon - and they had an opening on Tuesday so we took it. I know its soon and seems like "short notice" but they said the longer she waits, there is potential for the tethering to cause problems with her legs, bowel and bladder. Since we (me and Eden) are planning to go to TN for Thanksgiving, I wanted to allow her plenty of time to recover before trying to travel and Dr. Fuchs didn't want to wait until after Thanksgiving.

As bummed as I was to hear that my little girl was going to need yet another surgery, I am so thankful to be where we are - near such wonderful doctors and medical care. By the Lord's provision, we are here (this is the month we were originally going to be moving to Africa). And by the Lord's will we will walk through whatever He allows in our lives. Our pastor was speaking on suffering recently and how suffering is a mark of the believer's life. Its not "if" we will suffer, its "when" you suffer. As we "suffer", I continue to pray (as I would ask you also to pray) that the Lord would do in our lives what brings most glory to Himself. I have been reading Hebrews this week and am confident in the Lord who is my Hope, One who sympathizes and One who is near.

I will update frequently over the next week and let you know how E is doing (she has no idea what is going on... and thankfully!) and how you can pray for her. We covet your prayers and know that the Lord has heard everyone and will keep our little one in His hands.

Steph, Josh and Eden

And the Winner is......

2008-10-15T06:24:00.000-07:00

LORREN!!!

I tried to get a picture of E holding Lorren's name for proof, but she wouldn't cooperate. Lorren - I'll get you one of the Quilted List Takers next time I see you! Thanks for all the comments you all left!

I've also got a few new pictures of Eden... She is sitting so well by herself now - but still not able to be left unattended. She's also supporting herself enough to let me hold her hands and "stand". Yeah Eden!

I've had alot of custom orders these past few weeks (almost 10!!). I have been busy doing those, but have also had a couple of people ask about Christmas Cards. I have come up with a few samples for my store and may create a few more. So here they are:

Sewn Fabric Cards, blank on the inside or Merry Christmas message.

Photo Cards - a 3x5 photo will fit on the brown paper and can easily be removed by your recipient!

Wording on the Side is a Isaiah 6:9

I too was tagged!

2008-10-15T06:03:00.000-07:00

My sweet friend Rachel tagged me last week in her blog and I'm just now getting around to posting and tagging other (sorry its taken me so long Rachel!)

I'm tagging Jenn, Lorren and Kacie.

1. What time did you get up this morning?
6:30

2. Diamonds or pearls?
Both! diamonds on my fingers and usually pearls in my ears :) (this is Rachels' answer - but I couldn't have said it better myself.

3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema?
I have NOOO Idea - its probably been a few years... Josh won't take me to the theatre because i always fall asleep

4. What is your favorite TV show?
Grays Anatomy and Law and Order (and I'm also a sucker for Wife Swap - mainly because I think its so ridiculous)

5. What do you usually have for breakfast?
Coffee is a staple, but the actual "food" varies every day.

6. What is your middle name?
Elizabeth

7. What food do you dislike?
there's not much I don't like

8. What is your favorite CD at moment?
whatever Josh has on the ipod, mainly worship music

9. What kind of car do you drive?
Camery

10. Favorite Sandwich?
California Chicken Salad Sandwich from Village Deli... yummmm

11. What characteristic do you despise?
insincerity

12. Favorite item of clothing?
my green chinos from Gap - I've well gotten my moneys worth out of them.

13. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?
any vacation would be nice:)

14. Favorite brand of clothing?
gap

15. Where would you retire to?
how about the mission field instead of retirement?

16. What was your most recent memorable birthday?
25 - my first birthday as a mommy.

17. Favorite sport to watch?
probably tennis, but thats a stretch... I should say Track and Field to make my hubby proud

18. When is your birthday?
March 3

19. Are you a morning person or night?
morning, though I have gotten in the habit of staying up lately crafting:)

20. What is your shoe size?
8.5

21. Pets?
none, though we've recenlty found out that Eden LOVES doggies... though I don't think we'll get one anytime soon.

22. Any new and exciting news you would like to share with us???
I'm teaching myself to sew.. but thats not really that exciting.

23. What did you want to be when you were little?
a doctor

24. How are you today?
glad to not be at work and to be at home with E

25. What is your favorite candy?
peanut m&ms or skittles.

26. What is your favorite flower?
Gerber Daisys

27. What is a day on your calendar you ae looking forward to?
Today - its our anniversary and Josh is taking me out (granted I find someone to watch E).

28. What is your full name?
Stephanie Elizabeth Carroll

29. What are you listening to right now?
Regis and Kellly, and the sound of Eden playing (much more pleasent)

30. WHat was the last thing you ate?
Coffee

31. Do you wish on stars?
nope

32. If you were a crayon what color would you be?
Burnt Orange

33. How is the weather right now?
perfect.. but its suppose to be in the 80s today... boooo... thats not October weather

34. The first person you spoke to on the phone today?
my mom, yes I talked to her at 7:30

35. Favorite soft drink?
we don't drink sodas, but I can down alot of sweet tea.

36. Favorite Restaurant?
La Forresta and Pei Wei

37. Real Hair Color?
brown with red tints

38. What was your favorite toy as a child?
dolls

39. Summer or winter?
Fall

40. Hugs or kisses?
depends on who from.

41. Chocolate or vanilla?
chocolate

42. Coffee or tea?
always coffee

43. When was the last time you cried?
Last week

44. What is under your bed?
my clothes - somehow Josh took up most of our closet.

45. What did you do last night?
worked on a few custom orders for my etsy shop:)

46. What are you afraid of?
tornados

47. Salty or sweet?
sweet

48. How many keys on your key ring?
5 or 6?

49. How many years at your current job?
2 as a nurse, 9 1/2 months as mommy

50. Favorite day of the week?

Any day except for Monday and Tuesday...

51. How many places have you lived in?
3 - H'ville, the 'Boro, and Raleigh (well 4 if you count Wake Forest)

52. Do you make friends easy?
I guess so?

The Quilted List Taker

2008-10-09T16:54:00.000-07:00

I'm having another give-away to introduce the quilted List Taker...

Isn't is pretty! So I've had this "idea" in my head for months now of a little "organizer" if you will to hold a journal, pen and a set of cards. I played around with my sewing machine for weeks trying to create my own pattern... (haha, I know many of you are laughing right now). After several attempts and not so great turnouts, I happened to stumble across this pattern on etsy. A very talented Jennifer Casa designed this list taker and has given permission for me to recreate them to sell in my shop. Of course, for all you seamstresses out there, go buy the pattern yourself, its only a few bucks... and if your not a seamstress, consider buying one from my shop:) I've just bought some beautiful fabrics to use, but had to make the first ones using scraps from my craft chest. So here are a few:

Leave a comment and let me know what you think! I'll draw a name next week from the comments left and send the lucky winner one of the beauties!

Just a few Pictures for you Enjoyment.

2008-10-07T18:34:00.000-07:00

Why crib bumpers are a good idea...

(and yes, she is asleep in this picture! - I took it at 5:30 in the morning, I just couldn't help mysefl!)

Working on "mama"

Working on 1. Sitting, 2. "the josh face"

She's not quite mastered sitting yet:)

Avery, Matthew and Eden

So happy:)

Eden's 9 Month Appt

2008-10-02T18:05:00.000-07:00

Eden had her 9 Month appt yesterday with Dr. Herriott. She weighed in at a whopping 14lb 5oz (still less than the 3rd percentile). On the contrary - her height was 27.5 inches (almost 50%) - what can I say - she is her daddy's child - tall and skinny! Dr. Herriott was pleased with how she looked, though we are still reaching for ideas to help her gain weight more. She suggested adding oil and butter to her solids.. yummm yummmm. Pretty much all those "bad" things you're not suppose to do to fruits and veggies, she wants me to do with Eden's! She does love solids and would much rather eat from a spoon than her bottle. So during feeding therapy we're trying to get her to drink from a cup - and she actually is taking to it pretty well (though its probably not what you're picturing). As long as she stays on her own little growth curve - we'll be pleased.

Eden is doing a few new things which is very fun. She is sitting up longer by herself - though definitely not well enough to leave her there alone. She is learning to shake things and "drop" things - very cute - but gets old fast:) Everything is funny to her - I wish I knew what was going on in her little mind and what she found so humerous about opening the mailbox and unlocking the doors.

Sadly, I haven't taken many pictures of her lately - I need to break out the camera a little more. I think you know a child is getting older when the number of pictures starts to dwindle:) I probably have more pictures from the day she was born that I have taken in the past month!!!!

Eden has a new cousin!!!

2008-09-28T19:21:00.000-07:00

That is by far the most exciting news this week.... Rylan made her entrance on 9/26. She is beautiful and healthy and we are so thrilled!

On the Eden front - not much to report - so I decided to just post some pictures (especially since I promised my grandparents I would tonight!)....

Eden cheesing with her "tooth" card from Gigi (too bad I still can't get a good picture of that tooth!)

Sitting all by herself

Goodnight!

Trip #5 to Duke ED

2008-09-23T18:21:00.000-07:00

So this weekend, Eden decided that it had been a while since she'd taken a trip to Duke Pediatric Emergency Department. On Saturday she began vomitting a little (nothing for any ordinary parent to be concerned about - but enough for me to raise an eyebrow). Since her diaphragmatic hernia, I've somehow lost all my sense of judgement when it comes to "maternal instinct". After her surgery Dr. Rice (her surgeon) had told me to watch her very closely if she ever started vomitting again. So when she started with vomitting on Saturday, I immediately called the after hours line at our office and had them page the doctor. I was so thankful that Dr. Herriott was on -call. She quickly called me back and reassured me that I wasn't freaking out for no reason and that I should take her to the ED "just to be sure". So - off to Duke we went. Three hours later, we were on our way home!!!! They did a chest x-ray and a belly x-ray and both were fine. And of course, after we got to the hospital, she never vomitted again. What can I say - this kid likes to keep me on my toes.

Sorry these two cut half her face out - but I have been trying to catch a better picture of that tooth since many of you didn't believe that she really had one:)

So that was our weekend.... The week ahead is quite "normal" thankfully! The weather is BEAUTIFUL!!!!!!!! I can't wait to spend some time outside with Eden this week. I think we will be taking quite a few walks.

Here are a few more photos from my ETSY shop as well:) I've had a few "large" custom orders lately which has been very fun... I'm also gearing up for a craft fair in October which I hope goes well.

My largest custom order so far (thanks Grandma!!! - its in the mail and should get to you this week!)

Halloween Cards! These little kiddos in their costumes make me so excited about dressing Eden up this year!

My new favorite cards in my shop! I found this paper lace at a little craft shop in Raleigh called Panopolie. I got lost in there for hours:)

And lastly, I've been trying to thin out my stash of scraps so I decided to make some cards soley from scraps and I thought they turned out pretty good.

Eden Has a TOOTH!

2008-09-17T17:26:00.000-07:00

Yes - Its true... Eden has cut her first tooth. Josh has made fun of me for getting so excited about her first tooth, but I have been known to get excited about the small milestones! Okay - so the picture doesn't do it justice... but here's what I was able to get:)

Speaking of milestones.... Eden had therapy tonight and her therapist had all great things to say about her progress. She was rolling all over the place, curious about all kinds of toys, talking up a storm, and even sat by herself for a few seconds. We were even talking today about the steps before crawling (though I realize that may be a ways off right now, but I'm still hopeful that it won't be to long from now). She said that often kids will focus on one area of development at a time and we agreed that Eden's "area of development" right now is definitely her vocals! She LOVES to talk... though I'm not quite sure yet where she got this from???

Two nights in a row... this is how our last bottle went... Kate and Avery must have worn Eden out!

And since Its been a while since I did a little promoting of my ETSY shop, I'd though I'd take a chance to update a few new items:) The first photo are little envelopes made from magazine pages (there are blank cards on the inside). The second ones are the first of many (hopefully) Christmas cards that will go up in my shop. I also have some Halloween ones but I haven't taken pictures of them yet. You'd think I'd get my holidays in the right order... And the last ones are made from some adorable paper I found on clearance at Target (don't you just love a Target clearance item!).

I am so glad fall is here too! The temperature has dropped here in Raleigh and its beginning to finally feel like fall... I can't wait to drink me a Starbucks pumpkin spice latte!!!! Fall makes me think of craft fairs and craft fairs make me really happy! So I found one last weekend that was so much fun (though it was WAY too hot for me and two pregnant women and two kids!). I hope to sell in a few craft fairs this year, but we'll see... Its pretty sad how much I daydream about crafting...

Well, that's all for tonight. We've got a few playdates this week, so maybe I'll have picture of that... or something else fun to post soon.

I have also included a link to the right of our new shutterfly website. I finally broke down and ordered photos from birth until now:) I've needed to do this for a while and since I spent $50 at Archivers, I got 50 free photos:) And I got 50 free photos just for signing up. I had so many promotions that by the time I checked out with 200 photos, an 8 x 10 and a collage poster, I only paid $12! Now I can't wait to get them and start on her scrapbook:) Anyways - I added the photos to a website for sharing. Let me know if you have any trouble viewing the pictures.

Talking Up A Storm...

2008-09-12T14:22:00.000-07:00

Not much new in our home except Eden's new found vocals. I don't know wether she's finally getting used to the hearing aids or if she is just going to be a talker, but the sweet thing just doesn't stop babbling these days. Don't get me wrong - I LOVE every little sound - its so much fun to see her trying to make out sounds. She's working real hard on the "ma"... which makes me very happy:) Ironically I don't practice "da" with her much:)

The dress E has on in this picture is one of my FAVORITES - though she's only gotten a few wears out of it. Sadly its being retired since she screamed bloody murder last night when I took it off because the neck is so tight. I'm on the lookout for another one in a bigger size. Maybe the reason I love it so much is that its 1. Not pink. and 2. Josh said he loved it (he RARELY says this about her clothes).

Well... I just wanted to take a chance and update a few pictures for all you compulsive blog checkers:) And to give a shout out to my dad - Happy Birthday Daddy!

Eden hates the Beach

2008-09-02T18:05:00.000-07:00

Yes - it is true... my daughter does not like the beach. Just another affirmation that she is just like her daddy and not much like her mommy. Maybe the word hate is a strong word.. I mean, she didn't scream bloody murder... but did really didn't get into the sand, water, ocean, ocean breeze, or heat. All she did was sleep (okay - so this is like her mommy!). It was quite an ordeal to take a baby to the beach... probably something I won't do again for a while - at least not until next year when she will be more interested in it.

Josh and I, on the other hand, had a great time and both have sunburns to prove it. We went with the youth leaders from North Wake... it was a great weekend from that standpoint and am really excited to be able to get involved with youth again, even though I'm still not quite sure what my role will be yet in this - I'm still trying to balance motherhood with everything else. Though I do miss this in my life. Some of my best memories from college were with "my girls" (you girls know who you are!! - you better be reading my blog). It is such a blessing to watch young women mature in their faith. I long for this in my life again. I am really excited about some of the different things our church is doing in regards to youth ministry.

Well... as always, I wait too late at night to update this blog and it is getting late, so I should get to bed. I am having trouble (once again) getting my photos to load... its just taking forever, so I will post them to facebook with a link here for you to look at more - the best ones are yet to come... these were just a few:)

Steph

A Visit from Nana and Papa Joe (and Gigi)

2008-09-02T17:50:00.000-07:00

So - this post is WAY Overdue, but deserves its own post! Eden (and josh and I) had a visit from Nana and Papa Joe two weeks ago. Even though we hate being so far away from family, it definitely makes the visits so much more special. Here are a few pictures to document the weekend:)

Eden getting some love from Nana (that is a smile with her finger in her mouth)

Resting with Papa Joe (in her new favorite dress from Aunt Staci)

(Staci - I LOVE this dress!!! Good choice! )

Nana and Papa Joe with E, though we can never get E to look at the camera for group shots:(

Ever heard the expression - its coming out your nose? Well - it always does for E, poor thing. She had just eaten a good dinner of green beans and then sneezed them all up on poor Nana. Quite gross... Nana was a good sport!

And I must also include Gigi... she came for a very brief 24 hours - though they were packed with lots of fun (and as always, a trip to Archivers). My mom said she was coming to visit just so she could get a picture on the blog.. however, as I'm posting this I realized that I don't have any pictures????? Mom... did you take any with your camera??? you better send them to me if you want your spot on the blog:)

Blogging Issues

2008-08-29T19:50:00.000-07:00

Sorry - I am having some blogging issues... I'm trying to get a new background and in the process it deleted my list of blogs I read. I know some of you (i.e. family) were using that as an easy link to other blogs - so I will have it up again soon - as soon as I find all those blog addresses... aghh.... If you were on that list and would like to be included again - please leave me your blog address.

We are headed to the beach tomorrow so I'll be sure to have LOTS of pictures next week... so check back! I'll update more than too... The Carrolls came last weekend as well as a quick trip from my mom. This week has been pretty typical and Eden ended it with her first ear infection:( Just in time for the beach. But hopefully she'll be feeling a little better soon and we can enjoy a weekend away.

Thanks again!

Steph

And the Winner Is......

2008-08-16T17:24:00.001-07:00

NICHOLE!!!!

Nichole - I'll send you an email about your free set of cards! Thanks again for all your comments everyone! I appreciate you putting up with my subtle ads for my etsy site:) Stay tuned and I'll do another give away at some point! Oh - and while I'm on the topic - here's some of my new creations:) Let me know what you think....

Eden had a busy week. We had two days full of doctors appointments... A follow up with Dr. Rice who did her surgery. A recheck on her hearing aids. Feeding therapy, play therapy, PT, and an Eye doctor appt. All went well and now I don't think we have any appointments for a while... and feeding therapy has now been moved to the house and is now every other week!!! YAHH! What will I do with all my new found free time? I'm Eden will find something for me to do!

Last week I made a huge batch of baby food for Eden. It was so easy and actually a lot of fun. My friend Heather made all of her daughter's food and she made it look so easy - so she let me borrow the book "Super Baby Food" and I have now ventured into the world of homemade baby food. I now have tons of carrots, sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, pears, apples, avocados, prunes, and bananas in my freezer. Eden has definitely shown her preferences already though... sweet potatoes and bananas (both sweet - go figure!). She laughed through her entire meal of sweet potatoes yesterday - it was hilarious, if only I had a video camera.

These next two pictures are of the headbands that I ordered for Eden from a fun etsy site (alibugbows - very cute and very affordable!). I have a wide array of colors so you will be seeing more of this variety! Lets just hope it works to keep the hearing aids on...

And this one is from the previous post - I just didn't have time to upload the picture! This picture was taken right after she got in this position all by herself!!!!

Well - I must go - the olympics are calling my name.

Just a Quick Post

2008-08-15T12:42:00.000-07:00

So I'm sitting here - watching and I just had to post to let you know what she is doing... We just got done with physical therapy with Jenny and we were joking how she rolled over twice during therapy today, right after I had said she hadn't done it in a really long time. Now, she's on the playmat by herself, just rolling back and forth on to her belly and then back.... it just makes me smile to see her do this all by herself and repeatedly!!!! I'll post some cute pictures later - just wanted to update while I was thinking of her and beaming with joy!

Steph

Eden's Fist Olympics - Among other things

2008-08-12T18:18:00.001-07:00

I LOVE the Olympics. I don't know why but there is just something about the Olympics that gets me excited. So, for opening ceremonies, we decided to get in the spirit of the Olympics! Okay - it wasn't just me, Eden and Josh - though that would have been very funny - Our small group had an Olympic kick off party on Friday to watch the opening ceremonies (amazing might I add) and enjoy some Chinese food. It was a "dress up" party so, of course the Carrolls became the newest addition to the USA Track and Field team.

Our typical family photo

Eden was more interested in eating her USA Bib - and that is a massive javelin Josh is holding

Maybe every mom is like this, I don't know? but its the little things that get me... the little things that Eden does that make me realize she is growing up. It does my heart good to see her do these small things and I don't wish for one minute for her to "stay small forever". I have heard so many parents at work say that about their newborns - how they wish they could stay that way forever. Those comments have new meaning to me with all we've walked through the past year and I rejoice every time Eden does something that indicates she is "growing up". To me it reminds me that God is still at work and is still answering prayers for our little girl. This week, Eden has sat unsupported a few times (though not for very long)... and every day when we "practice" sitting, it gets a little longer (seconds, that is). I almost cried the first time she did it. I yelled down at Josh from the nursery, but of course by the time he came up there she wouldn't do it anymore. She is also sitting up and playing in her exercauser. I might have mentioned this in my last post, but it makes her look like such a big girl - and it keeps her occupied by herself for a little while.

Playing (aka chewing on toys) all by herself.

Then she realized I was watching her and taking her picture!

On another note - Josh got a new job teaching at Wakefield High School... though I'm still not quite sure what he's teaching (something business/computer related). He is very excited and may also have the opportunity to coach as well. He finally got all his paperwork and found out that he starts on THURSDAY! So - our life is about to get a lot busier with that and with seminary starting back in a few weeks as well.

And lastly - another update on my ETSY site. I ordered some stamps a few weeks ago that I just got in the mail this week that I am Oh so excited about.... Here's a preview just for you! Eden is already asleep or I would have her draw a name from the comments last week - but I promise, before Friday I'll have a winner! Keep the comments coming though - I love to read them!

This one is for the back of my cards

And I'm not sure what to do with this one yet - its a bit larger, but very cute!

Steph

Finally - a slow week!

2008-08-07T15:12:00.000-07:00

This week was a slow one - only one doctor's visit - and it was planned:) So no new news to report on the medical front... yahhhh!!!!!!

I feel like I about to start into the world of discipline!!! E has found her hearing aids and when she is lying on the play mat or in the car seat, she has become very good at pulling them out. Despite my headband trick, she is managing to get to them. So yesterday started my "no's" with her. I'm having a difficult time knowing how to "discipline" a 7 month old, though I know I need to do it and want to intervene and let her know who's boss:) and that she can't play with her hearing aids.

I "talked" with a mother on etsy who has a daughter with hearing aids and she suggested putting a small tab of velcro on the hearing aids and then a small tab of velcro on the headbands to keep them on... she said it worked for her daughter. I thought this was brilliant - we'll see. I did order some cute headbands and bows from another etsy shop and can't wait to get them.

Eden wore her first big girl pajamas this week. They made her look like such a big girl. What are big girl pajamas? Not footed pjs! I bought this two piece set a few weeks ago at a consignment sale because I thought they were so cute. I tried them on E last night and they were absolutely adorable. So I had to take a few pictures.. and then this morning I took a few more... Isn't she precious!

Eden has been eating great for me this week! We started squash earlier this week which she didn't mind and I've got asparagus next - if she's got any Harrell in her - she'll like asparagus:) I am loving baby food - no really... it is so much fun to see her growing and doing things she is suppose to. It is such a blessing to me and I don't take any of it for granted. She has also been playing in her exersauser and has been finding the toys that make noise... this too is so sweet to watch. She also rolled over twice today... yahhhh Eden.

I'm going to have my first Etsy give-away here on my blog... leave a comment and next week - Eden will draw a name from the comments and you will receive a free set of cards from my shop!

Thanks for checking on us!

A Few New Things...

2008-08-03T17:49:00.000-07:00

I have actually done a good job of taking pictures this week... here are a few to document our week...

Tummy Time is getting a little better - E held her head up during tummy time for a minute and a half today - that's a record... Jenny (her physical therapist) told me to time her this week and see how long she will go - the goal is 30 minutes of "happy tummy time" a day!!! She definitely prefers tummy time on either mine or Josh's chest - but hey - we'll take it!

My dad came to visit... it was great to see him, even though it was a really short visit:(

Eden tried her first fruit! MANGOS - she acted kinda indifferent about them, but I think she is warming up to them. She hasn't been too thrilled about solids, but now that I realized I can get it more pureed in the blender rather than the food processor, I'm hoping she takes it better... if not, I guess we'll actually have something to work on this week at feeding therapy.

Mangos (above)

Carrots

I spent most of my day yesterday (well - when I wasn't playing with E or feeding her!) making some new cards - I've had these ideas floating around in my head for the past few weeks and I finally had to get them out on paper... I will be posting them slowly this week on my etsy site - but wanted to give you all the first looks:)

When I found this paper - I bought it just because I thought it was adorable - I've been holding on to it for a long time - just waiting for moment to use it... I LOVE these new cards (maybe they won't see and I can use them!)

I have fallen in love with stitching on cards!!

I decided that I would call these my new "line" of cards - inspired by all those adorable appliqued onsies I have found on ETSY (I am in the process of making one for Eden - but if it doesn't turn out, I may turn to my friend Melissa:) ).

And these appliqued cards (there is also a set for boys) were inspired by all the new babies popping up around here... I may need to keep a set of these on hand for all the upcoming baby showers!

So I'm not going to say that we have an easy week - because last week when I did, we found ourselves at the office again to see Dr. Herriott because of a fever... okay, the nurse in me said - Steph its just a fever - give it a while (and this is what I tell parents all day long!)... however, considering the last fever she had turned out to be an abscess that took us to Duke ED - I didn't want to take any chances (and Dr. Herriott was the doctor in Wake Forest that day). So I made the appointment and took her. For the first time - we had a "normal" childhood illness on our hands.... a good ole run of the mill virus! I have never been so happy for Eden to have a virus!

A much needed update:)

2008-07-31T13:25:00.000-07:00

Eden is doing wonderful! Her personality continues to come out more every day. It is so sweet to see her laugh and play and giggle and EAT (and enjoy eating at that!)... It has been amazing to see how much just a little food can do for a baby! She has so much more energy and personality that ever before. She is still my sweet, laid back baby, though she has begun some attention getting techniques. She will start to cry, then when I look at her and smile, she will giggle... she thinks this is the funniest thing. She's beginning to explore peak a boo.... and making sounds are so fun too. Jodi her developmental therapist was making monkey noises this week during therapy and she thought it was the greatest thing in the world. She is also sitting a lot more - she still needs assistance, but less and less each day - I think I might cry when she sits up by herself. Praise the Lord that He continues to allow E to do things at one point we thought she might not do.

Staci (josh's sister) came to visit this week - it was so wonderful to see her. She is leaving next week to teach overseas and we are going to miss her dearly! It was great to spend some time with her before she left. My dad is coming to visit tomorrow for a few hours and I know he can't wait... and then Nana and Papa Joe are coming later in August. This makes us sound busy - but I actually think life is actually "slowing" down for the first time in a long time. I am hoping to get to work on my ETSY site some more and I have some books I want to read - but who knows - maybe Eden will be crawling soon and I'll again have no time on my hands anymore (which I wouldn't complain about at all!)

I also think Eden might be teething - though there have been many points in the past few months that I thought she might be teething. She has had little white spots on her gums since she was about 3 months old -but they have not changed one bit. The past few weeks however, she has been drooling like CRAZY - everything is wet. And everything goes straight to the mouth. Yesterday I gave her a frozen teething ring and it was quite funny to see her reaction to something frozen in her mouth - though it shocked her initially, she kept chewing away on it - I finally took it away because her hands we like ice:)

ETSY is going well... I have finally made a sell to someone I don't know!! That was pretty exciting for me... And I also had my first international customer (thanks Ursula!)... I have ordered some stamps with my logo and website on them and can't wait for them to come in the mail. I am having so much fun with this website. It has been such a great outlet for me to have something to get my mind off of things. I am having fun experimenting with different designs and textures for my cards. My new favorite is using fabrics...

These are so much fun and I think they have turned out really nice - as soon as I find some more fun fabric I'm going to make some more. I have also become addicted to browsing etsy for new ideas of things to make (but not to sell!) I have bought the supplies to make a few things for E, but have not yet jumped in to them... maybe soon. This has been such a great creative outlet for me and I'm glad I've been able to sell some of my products and share it with others. Thanks to all my etsy supporters (and a very big thank you to Mylinda!)

I am typing all this while waiting on my video to load - it is taking quite a long time, but I think I have figured it out. I'll have to do a shorter video next time - maybe that will be a little quicker. Okay - so now its done "loading" and said error - after 30 minutes - so still no video until someone helps me out and tells me what I'm doing wrong:) Any takers?

I love these smiles!:)

Eden with her toy from the Kid's Exchange

She's getting so LONG (go figure!)

Hearing Aids

2008-07-25T15:31:00.000-07:00

Yes - Eden finally has her hearing aids... but no, I did not get a video of it. The people at Duke would not let me video.... but I will get a video up of her soon - as soon as I figure it out. But for now, pictures will have to do.

So there they are... and notice all the drool on her dress - I think she might be teething? Isn't she a cutie... I think so. I'll try and get some more pictures tomorrow. We've had such BUSY week - I'm glad its behind us... now - lets see how long we can go without any more suprises.

Thanks to my ETSY supporters! I have posted some new cards on there - they're going fast - so check them out!

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