I have always been a bargain shopper. Always been good at finding “deals” when I make purchases. Almost never pay full price on retail items. So, when it comes time to make decisions about home purchases, I don’t take my best price sleuthing skills for granted. Today we decided to do asbestos testing on the popcorn ceiling in our kitchen since part of it decided to peel off and fall down today. The first guy I called really made me uncomfortable on the phone. I felt like he was trying to pull some scare tactics on me and I don’t like that. I really didn’t like that he said he wouldn’t charge me “much”, only $200 for this testing. So, I called another guy. A much nicer and more friendly guy. His quote was less. A good bit less. Enough that I was pretty much ready to have him come out and do the testing. But, I found one more number and wound up leaving a voice mail for that guy. The third guy called back and his quote was even less. For the same testing. Granted, he can’t come until later today, but he’ll still have the result back on Thursday. So, he’s booked. I really felt bad about backing out on the second guy because he was so nice and courteous to me on the phone. But, hey, let’s face it – money talks. The third guy was just as nice, so I hope he lives up to my expectations. More than that, let’s hope for NO ASBESTOS!! If there is none, we can take down that horrid popcorn ceiling coating ourselves. It’s not our idea of a great time, but it would save us a ton of money. And, no one wants asbestos in their house. Yikes!!
Do things really happen in threes?!
If things really happen in threes, as the old wives tale goes, then we are 2/3 of the way there with house issues. First, the water problem happened. Well, now we have another issue that has come up this morning. I was boiling water on the stove so that I could use it for cleaning, etc. I had the exhaust fan on, but apparently it wasn’t enough to contain all the steam and the steam caused a section of the ceiling to peel off above the stove. Just lovely. It’s that yucky popcorn stuff on the ceiling and we’ve actually wanted it down for quite some time now, but we just haven’t bothered with doing anything about it. Guess we will now. We are trying to decide if we need to have it tested for asbestos. Odds are, it’s not present, but I’m thinking that’s not a risk to take. I have scheduled someone to come out this afternoon to take a sample to test for asbestos. Hopefully it is not present, but we would always rather be safe than sorry. So, add another thing to our plate. But, hey, at least the ceiling will look better soon. Then maybe we’ll be inspired to do the remaining ceilings.
On Our Home Front…
Well, it’s been a weird couple of days around our home front. This is because we are currently without hot water. We had some sort of leak in our basement which caused the pilot light to go out on our water heater. Mickey called a plumber and he came out to work here most all of yesterday afternoon. He thought he had the leak fixed, but the pilot light wouldn’t relight at that point. We all assumed it needed to properly dry out and THEN it would light. Mickey tried several times through the evening to relight it to no avail. This morning he went to the basement bright and early and not only would the pilot not relight, but the leak was back. Not as big as before, but still there. {{sigh}} So, we have to call the plumber and get him back out here ASAP. Then we have to hope that the leak stays away and hope the pilot dries out enough to finally light. If that doesn’t work, we have to get some sort of technician out here to fix the water heater too. The “joys” of home ownership, right?! Now, don’t get me wrong, I am not complaining too loudly. I know for a fact that we are blessed to have a home. I am grateful for that. I’m also thankful that this problem isn’t any worse than it is. Sure, it’s an inconvenience and a half, but it’s not the end of the world. At least we have the stove to heat water for dishes and we could heat water for bathing if need be. Does that sound ideal? No, but it’s a solution that works. So, we’ll do what we have to do and hope this gets resolved quickly. I’m SOOOO ready for a nice hot bubble bath and a book. That sounds heavenly right about now.
All of this has really made me realize how much we take for granted. I mean, just think about hot water. It’s just supposed to BE there, right? Turn on the tap, wait a nominal amount of time and hot water is supposed to be readily available. That’s what we’re used to and being without it sort of turned things upside down for us. I was talking to my brother Charlie about this just this morning and we both realized that it really could be a lot worse. At least I don’t have to draw water from a well or collect it from a creek. At least I don’t have to heat water over a fire. I mean, really, the inconvience is so slight compared to what it could be. I am so guilty of taking so many things for granted, especially things like “every day conveniences.” We have a climate controlled home. Flip a switch, adjust the dials or buttons and we’re as warm or cool as we want to be. Easy. Start our washing machine, add powder, throw in the clothes, close the lid and walk away. Come back later to clean clothes. Easy. Want to go somewhere? Go out to one of our two vehicles, get in, turn the key and it’s ready to go. Easy. So many things in our life come so easily. We’re spoiled, quite frankly. We’re not even a family of “privilege” by many of the world’s standards, but yet we are absolutely spoiled and pampered. It really makes me stop and think about these things when I lose a convenience that I rely on so much. It’s frustrating as all get out, yes, but I won’t lose sight that it’s temporary and simply inconvenient. It’s not the worst thing in the world.
So, today finds me hoping that the plumber can come over and fix this problem. SOON. But, in the meantime, I am reminding myself to be grateful for the things we DO have which are plentfiful. I’m not always good at doing that, but it does help to make the most out of a frustrating situation.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart…”
Jeremiah 29:11~13 (NIV)
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Good Mornin’, Mornin’!
- I am smiling as I read the title of my post. I got that saying from my Uncle Lawrence years ago. We used to go on an annual camping trip every summer as a family. My mom, brother and I went along with my grandparents (mom’s parents) and her brother, Uncle Lawrence. Lawrence was always one of those late to bed, late to rise people. As kids, my brother Charlie and I didn’t exactly sleep late. So, on these camping trips we’d already be up and at ‘em for awhile before Lawrence would crawl out of bed. He’d get up, come to the camper door and say “Good mornin’, Mornin’!” every morning. That stuck with me all these years. I’m still known to say it myself. What better way to start the day than to greet the morning, right?!
- It’s a chilly morning here today. Only about 36 outside right now. Brrrr!! It’s supposed to get into the mid-60s today, so I wish that would hurry up. It’s so weird to me to dress the girls in spring clothes for school and then cover those clothes up with a coat or sweater. It’s cool in the mornings and warm by the afternoons. Of course, I do love that spring is springing, but I’m always glad when the warmer weather settles in for a nice long stay.
- I am “on call” for jury duty this week. I thought I was going in this morning, but I read my summons last night and there was a number to call after 6pm the evening before reporting. So, we called and my number wasn’t one that had to report this morning. I am to call every evening after 6pm this week to see if I am selected to come in for jury selection. It really worked out for the best that I wasn’t selected to come in this morning. Mariana is doing better, but still not on the top of her game. Plus, Macey’s Character Education winner lunch is today. Two very good and valid reasons for me to be home today, I’d say.
- I mentioned over the weekend that I was going to do some much-needed clothes shopping. Well, I did, but it was almost a bust. Clothes shopping isn’t as fun for me as it used to be. I must be at some weird stage because certain sizes are too small, but then the next size up is too big. Weird. Anyway, that has motivated me to keep working out and also work on eating better to lose some weight. Please wish me luck. I really want to drop some pounds, but also firm up and get in better shape. Not just for a wardrobe, but that is a nice incentive.
- I did, however, find some CUTE spring and summer items for the girls while I was shopping. That’s always easy and fun! I just have to remember to put the brakes on at some point when shopping for them. Go figure.
- Please PLEASE keep Baby Stellan and his family in your prayers.
Is it naptime yet?!
{{{Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaawn}}
Well, Mariana didn’t have a great night last night. That, of course, means neither did I. Not sure what was exactly wrong, but she didn’t sleep well. She woke up fussing/crying quite a few times through the night. She was a touch more congested than she had been, so maybe that was it. I seem to recall that Macey’s second evening after surgery was a bit tough too. Maybe that’s just one of those things. Whatever the case may be, I’m ready for a nap. I hope today turns out to be a better day for Miss Mariana. She has been doing so well and hopefully this is just a little speed bump in her speedway to recovery. Her ENT had called and left us a voicemail checking up on her on Friday evening, but I just got the message yesterday. (Why am I so terrible about checking messages anyway?!) He also called yesterday afternoon to get an update on her. What a great doctor!! This morning Mariana is doing better, but is touchy and cranky. Naptime cannot come soon enough for either of us.
We are going to miss church since Mariana is still recovering. We don’t like to miss it because, well, we MISS it. But, it’s really best to stay home today.
Macey went to her school friend Alice’s birthday party yesterday and had a ball! It was the first time we dropped her off at a party and she thought that was cool. Tinkerbell came to the party and painted faces, made balloon animals, did “magic” tricks, etc. Macey just had the best time!
After several days of rain, today is supposed to be sunny. WOO HOO! It’s supposed to be cooler than it’s been lately with temps in the 50s, but the sun will be nice to see. Everything is so green and springlike lately. It’s gorgeous! Of course, it won’t be long before everything is pollen coated. ACHOO!
Guess that’s it for my Sunday morning update. I’m thinking another cup of coffee (half-caff) is in order for me.
Have a beautiful day,
Kelly
Please remember to keep Baby Stellan and his family in your prayers:
Saturday Morning Update…
- Good morning!
- It is now around 7:40am on this gray Saturday and our household has been stirring for about an hour and a half. {{{YAWN}}} When do kids learn to sleep late anyway?!
- I am happy to report that Mariana is doing very well. She is of great spirit and has regained I’d say about 80% of her energy. She’s a touch grouchy, but that’s understandable, of course. She slept well last night and is feeling pretty good this morning. We are so grateful for her progress! I also have to do a little mama bragging because she is still rocking the house with her potty-training even after surgery!
- Macey and I had a fun little outing last evening. After we ate our delish dinner from Amy C and her family, Macey and I headed out to Target. (Looooooove that place!) We had to get a couple of birthday gifts for some of the girls’ friends and a few other odds/ends. Macey and I had a lot of fun shopping together. She was so cute picking out a birthday gift for the party she is going to later today. It was fun to get out with my big girl.
- Mickey is hoping to go out and run this morning. We’re supposed to get more rain today and possibly storms, so we’ll see if he’s actually able to get in the eight mile run he’s hoping for today. He is one of those that I call “crazy runner people” because he will run if it’s cold, raining, etc. But, he just can’t go out if it’s storming. So far this year he has logged over 100 running miles. How about THAT?! That is post shin surgery in September to correct compartment syndrome in both of his shins.
- I am hoping to do some clothes shopping today. I really need some new threads. Hopefully I can find some good deals. Basically when I shop it’s “No Deals = NO GO”, so I’m really hoping for the deals today.
- Well, I should wrap it up. Miss Mariana just came in looking for Mama Snuggles. That’s my clue to sign off for now.
- Happy weekend!
Update on Mariana…
Mariana’s surgery was this morning. I am happy to report that she has been home since around 12:45pm (EST) today and is really doing quite well.
Mariana was such a little trooper today. Seriously, a rock star patient! She couldn’t eat anything this morning and she only had a little bit of apple juice prior to 7am. She had one teary moment at home about it this morning, but that was all. She didn’t cry or fuss or anything after that. Once we got to the surgery center at around 8:30am, she entertained herself with toys in the waiting area and then watched DVDs in the surgery prep room. A couple of times she said she was hungry, but we reminded her that the doctor said no food and she was fine with that. She was just so calm! When I took her back for the anesthesia, she didn’t even cry. I had talked to her and told her they were going to put a mask with sleepy medicine in it and then they would fix up her ears once she went to sleep. So, when I laid her on the table, I held onto her and she didn’t even shed a tear. She drifted off so peacefully. I am absolutely SURE that part was a thousand times more difficult for me than her.
Her surgery took about half an hour. The ENT came out and told us that everything went well. He cleaned out around her left ear tube which was still in place. He replaced the right tube. He also removed her adenoids and said they were “huge.” We had to wait about 15 more minutes and then an RN came to get us to come to her recovery room. Mariana was VERY upset and frantic when we got to her. It was heartbreaking. I mean, imagine being an almost-thre year old who goes to sleep in one place with mommy there while feeling good and then waking up feeling weird and yucky in another place with strangers. No wonder she was crying. It took awhile once I got her, but she finally settled down. However, all the little medical things they had going on with her set her back a few times. She’d settle a bit and then notice she had a pulse-oxymeter on her finger and that would upset her. So, off it came. Then she settled down again and noticed the red light on her toe (another pulse-ox), so that had to go. The final straw for her was getting the IV out of her arm. I had to talk to her for awhile so that the last of her IV fluids, but when that finally came out she was reasonably happy. Once the IV was out, the RN checked her vitals and we were clear to go home. They had given Mariana a popsicle about 15 minutes or so prior to us leaving, but she only wanted to hold it and not eat it. Well, when we got her in the van, she was ready to it it. And, she enjoyed it!
On the way home, we stopped and got Mariana a Chick-Fil-A strawberry milkshake. She ate several bites of it with a spoon. When we got home, she and I laid down to nap. She was sleep just about the time her head hit the pillow. Her ENT said she may snore for awhile during her healing time and, sure enough, she did. WOAH. But, she rested for a good two hours which was well needed. When we got up, she was a touch cranky, but rebounded nicely after a popsicle and then a yogurt. She has also eaten a Fruit Roll Up and is working on an Italian ice. Yes, that’s a lot of sweet stuff, but most of it is cold stuff that feels good to her throat. Doctor’s orders. Our sweet friend Amy C. and her family are making supper for us tonight, so that is really sweet. Maybe Mariana will finally feel like eating “real” food.
Hopefully the next few days will see our little girl bounce right back. She really has been amazing about everything. Thank you all for the prayers. Please know how much they are appreciated. I drew so much comfort today in praying and in knowing we had support from so many that care for us and our family.
Blessings,
Kelly
A Rainy Day in Georgia…
Check this out – it’s our current weather radar:
Looks like we’re in for some unpredictable, but WET, weather today. We really need the rain (always!), but hopefully it won’t get too bad as far as storms. We’ll see. It’s actually supposed to rain through Saturday, I believe. Maybe it’s time I invested in some rain boots, huh?
In other news, we are set for Mariana’s surgery tomorrow. She can’t have anything to eat after midnight tonight (so, really, after bedtime at 7pm) and can have only clear liquids until 7am tomorrow. This is a child that really enjoys her breakfast, so the no-eating part really worries me. I hope she isn’t too cranky about it all. We have to arrive at the surgery center at 8:30 for her 10am procedure. Her ENT tends to run ahead of schedule, so hopefully that will be the case tomorrow. I have spoken to and emailed with a few moms whose children have had this same procedure and they all assure me that the recovery isn’t much more than it is with “just” tubes. So, we pray that is the case for Mariana. She handled her last ear tube surgery like such a champ. Maybe she’ll sail through this one too. Kids are so resilient and maybe she’ll pop back quickly. I’m just ready for it to be done and for us to be on the other side with her feeling SO much better. Prayers for our girl are very much appreciated.
I have just started receiving the Proverbs 31 Daily Devotion via email and I am loving it! I highly recommend signing up for it!!
We are finally finished with the photos I took at the wedding reception over the weekend. I really hope the family is happy with what I captured for them. I am taking them CDs with all the images I edited for them. And, Mickey graciously created a photo montage DVD which shows highlights from the day set to music. I am excited and hope they like all the photos and the DVD!
SHOUT OUT TIME! I have to give shout-outs to some friends that have told me they are reading my blog regularly. (If you post and let me know you’re a regular reader, I’ll give more shout-outs.) So, this is a big HEY and THANKS to Cheryl M, Heather W, Mary C and Renee W!
Have a great day,
Kelly
God is Good…All the Time
Like most everyone, I have found myself wondering on many occasions why bad things have to happen to good people. Especially why bad things happen to children. It just doesn’t seem right to me. But, then I realize that God is still in the center of it all. God is the only way for good to be brought about in ANY situation. Only God can take something bad or scary or tragic and bring it to good in His perfect way. I am way over-simplifying this tonight because I’ve had somewhat of a long day and I’m tired. But, I have realized in the last few days just how God reveals Himself even when times are tough. I have really been ministered to by MckMama via her blog. She is going through SUCH a difficult time with her precious baby son, Stellan. Her posts entitled to Him be the Glory and no matter what have really touched me. I believe they have touched countless others too. As a mom, I know she has to be going through SO much right now and she is sharing not only her struggles but her faith all along this way. That’s God. He’s revealing Himself. And, again, I stand in awe of Him.
Please continue to be in prayer for Stellan and his family.
Blessings,
Kelly