MY 2 VERY SPECIAL CHILDREN

2012-11-01T12:23:00.000+00:00

How time fly's. So much has happened so much has been said and done with very little time to share.

I have a little time to share a brief update while my kids are busy playing in there rooms.

OK so Jessica has had her skin expansion implants put in. All expansions were successful and complete using a local Anastasia. For us that was so important given Jessica's complex issues. Jessica also under went a successful teeth extraction although losing 9 of her baby teeth was upsetting but on the plus side she does still have 4 remaining baby teeth to come through and at least we don't have to worry about over crowding at this point. All that's left is to be certain about the proposed surgery that's been offered is definitely the right path to follow and will be of benefit for Jessica and Jessica alone.

The Catch Is...

Despite this surgery we have had to begin the awful and dread road of acceptance that our baby girl is unlikely to make it into double figures. I can't tell how hard it is trying to swallow that pill. I That's all I can say at this point as it hurts too much.

Now on to our boy Tom. Tom has had his own issues this year health wise. our boy is facing further surgery before this year is over. It would appear his left ear has a flesh eating infection that needs to be surgically removed. In 8order to do this it means Tom will have the entire contents of the inside of his left ear removed. Tom faces up to a month to recover as well as weeks of trying to adapt. We are hopeful that this process will be made easier because Tom already has BaHa hearing aids. unfortunately he is now at the right age where his Anastasia complications could kick in causing great concerns across the board.

Positive Moments

Despite all the endless hospital appointments, hospital stays due to illness and the bad health related news we as a family have enjoyed many happy moments the best being our first family holiday at Longleat centre parks arranged by some lovely kind caring friends of whom we will always be thankful of having the privilege of meeting and getting to know over the past 6 year.

Preparing for another Christmas...

Like every year this year will be another special year. As I write this I find myself strangely getting excited. Last year was the first time I actually enjoyed Christmas I went all out I was organised and planned everything to the last detail. Madness as I am staring to do the same again this year . If there is anything I have learn ed these past few years is every moment is precious every moment is a moment to be cherished every moment has both a negative but more importantly has a positive.

I'm not sure when I will blog again nor am I sure that I'll ever blog again as so much is going to happen within the next 12 months a lot of which I am uncertain I'll ever be able to write about. I say this because I'm already struggling now.

I guess time will tell. For now I just want to say thank you and good luck to you all and a very merry Xmas and a a happy new year.

Xx

UPDATE....

2012-03-08T08:21:00.000+00:00

Now that I have had a few days to process most of the information given to us I feel ready to update on what will be a tough 6 months...

Jessica will begin the next faze of her journey with 3/4 procedures called skin expansion. This is so when the time comes for her main operation there will be enough skin tissue to close up her wounds. Thankfully the person who will be performing these skin expansion ops is the very same person who repaired Jessica's cleft.

July/August will be the time where Jessica will embark on her VEPTR journey.

The plan is to re-shape Re-Aline and expand her chest outward using a VEPTR device on the one side then using another VEPTR device on the opposite side to encourage growth upwards.

The idea is to improve and stabilise Jessica's chest cavity. Once this is done Jessica will have to go back for expansions every 6 to 9 months. This will be repeated until she is between 8-9 years old. Once completed and the chest cavity is stable the VEPTR device on the left can be removed and the process of straightening her spine can begin.

FINGERS TOES AND ALL IS NOW CROSSED prayers are most welcome as the above plan is the only plan its still a shot in the dark and still very much a 50-50.

What is the most important thing to remember is if all goes well Jessica will continue to have the quality of life she has now any improvement beyond this will be a bonus but at least her quality of life will not decrease.

MEETING UP!!

2012-03-04T23:19:00.000+00:00

Have you ever met up with someone someone you've never met be for but felt so at easy so comfortable to find yourself feeling like you've known them for years?

A part of you tells you this is bloody brilliant but for all the wrong reasons!!
Why you ask. Well Its great when you meet someone you can openly talk to openly share stories to a relief that you know whole heartily that they not only understand but feel your frustrations your anger your pain your fears. I often say "I wouldn't wish any of what I/We are going through on anybody weather it be a parent or a child, yet today I met both a mother and her child both of whom are experiencing similar circumstances as ours.

Apart of you says if only we had met earlier!!
When Tom was first born I refused point blank to meet net alone talk to anyone other than the select few within my family. Having Jessica made me think twice. I'm sitting here now kicking myself for not seeking someone anybody who I could share my thoughts with with confidence.

Today has been a turning point today has been a step in the right direction and where once upon a time ago I believed I was the only one I/We now know this is both an unfair but untruth full statement.

Finally the select few can have a break and we can begin the process of making sure that what I grew up feeling doesn't get transferred to our children.

I also hope that A and her little boy got as much out of today as me and the kids did. I hope we gave A and her little boy a sense of comfort relief and some much needed support.

Me and the kids look forward to meeting up again in the future with what I hope will be good news all round.

I wish you both the very best of luck as you embark on the first stages of treatment.

Brianne & Co

xx

MORE AMAZING REVIEWS

2012-03-04T22:49:00.000+00:00

So this time its all about our boy Tom....

Mid-Year Review -

Tom is a lovely polite kind helpful young man who try's his best at all times. Tom has shown on many occasions that he can participate during group and partnership activities. Tom grades have and continue to improve. Tom has met all of his targets. Tom is on target to achieve his goal to meet his end of year targets.

Most of his home work is excellent some are good but some pieces show either lack of interest or lack of adequate timing spent on them if not both.

Tom does however have a tendency to chit chat when he shouldn't and occasionally can still be easily distracted.

Both me and Chris are so proud of you Tom considering all you have had to deal with the changes that you've had to get use to and considering the really bad patch you had we can definitely say you've not only overcome but have shown a willingness to improve as well as achieve beyond all expectations.

Your mid-year review is outstanding.

WELL DONE & KEEP UP THE HARD WORK

Lots of Love Hugs & Kisses Mom and Dad

xxx

PROUD AS PUNCH

2012-02-28T21:35:00.000+00:00

So....

Last week I went to Jessica assessment overview and the results were beyond amazing. It would appear we have a very clever bright little madam with bags of potential....

Teachers findings were....in short

A bright clever independent little girl who knows her own mind...Is able to demonstrate even the most complicated of tasks. Jessica is precise and particular as well as is finding many ways to communicate despite her delayed use of verbal language. Jessica was able to go off and play with other children with little if any prompting from her mother although did keep a watching eye to ensure her mother was still around. Jessica had no problem engaging with the other children or adults although very much on her own terms. In my opinion Jessica has a brain age of 2 1/2 to 3 yrs old + .

Occupational Therapist findings were....All of the above and at this stage feels Jessica doesn't need any further sessions however should this change she will be more than happy to open her doors.

Speech & Language....Her receptive language is outstanding and advanced for her age but there is some level of expressive language delay...Due to hospitalisation Jessica recently had a further few more assessments will need to be had before a true overview can be made.

As for everyone Else's findings well basically all of the above.

Hows that for the best report a mother a father could ever have of there child...Whats all the most amazing is when you take into account the 7 weeks premature that Jessica was and the many months that Jessica has spent in hospital some of which almost claimed her life I thinks its fair to say WOW!!! that bloody brilliant and you know we will beam with joy when some one asks us

"HOWS YOUR LITTLE GIRL GETTING ON?".

Jessica if you ever get to read this then know this mommy and daddy are so very proud of all you have achieved in your short life so far, all that you have overcome and we so look forward to all that you will fight to achieve and overcome in the future....We will always be there by your side fighting along side you. You and your brother are the 2 that give us the strength and the courage to never give up no matter how hopeless the situation looks for that I/WE thank you!

XXX

6 days and counting till we have an idea of just how much all of our lives will change!!!

Its hard to reall put into words the emotions we are feeling right now the frustrations we are dealing with the up moments the down moments all we know is waiting SUCKS!!!!

When we know and I'm ready to share I will update!!!

ANOTHER 5 DAYS SPENT IN HOSPITAL

2012-02-19T12:20:00.000+00:00

Right I know its been severel weeks since my last blog for reasons of which will follow.

After a good few weeks since our last hospital stay with Jessica we ended up having to cancel a weeks worth of appointments to rush her to hospital. Jess had picked up a bit of a cold causing respirotry distress once again.

Jess was admitted and again on oxygen thankfully this time the oxygen was only needed while sleeping.

Jessicas stay was 5 nights which was half the of the time of our last stay at hospital and thankfully she didn't loose weight but never gained either.

Whilst there were some positives this time around there were negatives such as a cold has never landed her in hospital befor never mind the needing oxygen...whilst there has been suggestions of future changes with jessica's health and her requirements of oxygen/c-pap mainly if not only for sleeping its been confirmed during this hospital stay...

If Jess is admitted again requiring oxygen whilst asleep then we will be home with extra equipment what that will be will be determined after a series of tests have been carried out.

UPDATE.....

After kicking off chasing up and contacting PALS we now have our appointment to discuss surgery.
We are however waiting for an appointment to discuss aneasetic options and mangement of the knock stage....Fingers crossed with PAS on the case will know by Monday-Tuesday.

We have a follow-up appointment this week to discuss how Jessica's assessments have gone and speech and language group session too.

A BETTER TERM

Tom has had a much better term so far and seems to have settled...Tom has worked hard to regain our trust as we have to alow him opportunities to show he can be trusted. All in all happy days.

KEEPING YOU POSTED

I will of course try to blog a little more regularlly from here on in. If for any reason I don't please watch this space as the first chance I get I will blog.

xx

WHAT A WEEK

2012-01-20T23:52:00.000+00:00

OK

so this week is the first of several rough tiring weeks and boy am I pooped already! Monday kicked off with a home visit from members of the children's development centre that we are now under. This was to talk about some of the services that they may be able to offer both present and in the future. It was also to take about how they will fit in both be for and after Jessica's surgery as well as a chance for them to get to know us and us to get to know them. I would like to point out that whilst they were under the impression they would also get there first chance to meet Jessica this wasn't the case! It was made easier that the time of which they came just happened to be around the same time Jessica would be having her much needed afternoon nap. Needless to say both me and Chris were some what very pleased as it meant we could check them out be for hand. Calling it our way of ensuring that all parties understood where there place was within the ever expanding team all striving to achieve the the same goal.

The home visit went well and much was discussed. What we are particularly grateful for is there assistance in finding a nursery place that will offer Jessica a few hours a week so that she can do what all kids do at her age...Have Fun in a safe secure environment whilst learning many life skills and a much needed break for mommy and daddy. Also they will assist in finding services that will will help and support us as a family regardless of of the overall outcome.

Next we have had great news Jessica has been invited to a group based speech and langue course spanning over 5 weeks. For her this will be brilliant as given her personality and cautiousness. We start next week. I am so excited as it will give us and her therapist a much better clue as to where she is at the areas that need working on the most.

Now let me tell you Monday started really well but unfortunately it didn't finish off on a good note. My boy Tom got beaten up by a kid at school his hearing aid got damaged and he ended up at the hospital for a skull xray and check. Thankfully there was no long lasting damage and the most he suffered was a head ache and a little bruising. The school and the police have taken the assault seriously this time and the kid in question is now on a final warning. I'm just very proud of my boy who has shown a level of maturity as well as determination by returning to school willingly as well as show a keen interest into participating in mediation sessions so that incidents like this don't occur again as well as find mutual common ground and a new found mutual respect for each other and fellow pupils.

Tuesday 5.5 hours at the hospital for appointments for both Tom and Jess was so tiring followed by a house full seconds after walking in was lovely but also tiring in itself. Wednesday was another afternoon at the hospital for more appointments although only for 2.5 hours this time still it was just as tiring. Thursday was a meeting with the school regarding Tom and the incident and a final visit from police later that evening. Today was all about pj's snuggles and a much needed rest and recuperation YOU KNOW I JOINED JESS IN HER AFTERNOON SLEEP BLISS!!!

On a good note though we have heard from the housing ass we recently put an app into...They are currently processing our app and will hopefully get a letter stating weather or not we've been accepted. Fingers crossed we are as we really need some much need break and this is the break we really want and need.

Saturday is match day only this time I'll be nothing more then just a regular player...No more captain responsibilities no more decision making blar blar blar oh no that will all fall onto my good mate L W muhahahaha...Its all good though as I have every faith in L W she will make a great captain she will do herself proud her team mates proud and the club proud....As for me I will just relax and enjoy the moment and after this weeks bullshit I feel I deserve to.

Guess What I will have to go through all this again from Monday as we have another week full of appointments!!!!

Until then we will relax have fun and enjoy our weekend minus the bullshit, well that's the plan anyway he he he!!

PHOTO COLLECTION OF OUR XMAS SURPRISE

2012-01-12T23:52:00.001+00:00

AT LAST A FOLLOW-UP AND AN UPDATE!!

2012-01-10T21:05:00.000+00:00

BUT FIRST......

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!!

FOLLOW-UP... OK so our family surprise was an over night stay at the beautiful family orientated Splash Landings Hotel Alton Towers...Wow Amazing and Jam Packed full of fun & excitement.

We were treated to a day in at the water park, Santa's Elves work shop a chance to meet Santa himself as well as a trip to Alton Towers Theme Park itself and all in a day and a half + night. Included was an fantastic traditional Xmas dinner and a all you can eat breakfast both hot and cold as well as coffee tea and fresh juices.

All the staff were both very help full and friendly from the porters to the house cleaners. The entertainers were brilliant. All the kids there definitely engaged with everything offered to them.

All in all regardless of the lack of sleep me partner and kids not only enjoyed ourselves but for the first time in a very long time relaxed so much so we got into the spirit of things.

I would definitely recommend to anyone looking for something new different and exciting to do in the run up to Xmas.

UPDATE....

Tom's 12th Birthday unfortunately we were unable to do much as all of us were still feeling unwell and none of us could really be bothered...Family couldn't visit as they too were very poorly so a quite birthday it was. Tom bless him still enjoyed himself and particularly loved his present. We got him a new Scooter which apparently is the new range of its kind.

XMAS DAY ARRIVES....Despite all of us still feeling rough we enjoyed our first family Xmas day it was quite calm yet fun. The kids unwrapped all there presents checked them out stacked them be for moving onto the next one. Jessica really did enjoy the unwrapping but my she had just as much fun playing with all her new toys.

Jessica's 2nd Birthday didn't go according to plan you see Jessica's health started to get worse and wasn't getting any better but worse so much so we ended up rushing her to hospital. Jess ended up needing oxygen day and night and diagnosed with a super bug virus that attacks the respite system. We were all very lucky as it turns out if we'd left it any longer today's story would indefinitely been a very different story all together.

Thankfully I am happy to say that after 1 week and 1 day Jessica returned home fit well and full of life once again. Today was her first trip out into the outside world since the 20th December 2011.
Jessica really did enjoy herself more than ever before and best of all got to share her moment with her best est friend baby Z.

Last but not least we have both Tom and Jessica's Cleft reviews tomorrow then there respite reviews next week then finally an appointment to discuss Jessica's surgery in detail.

So now we are up to date I can finally stop have a coffee and make a start on creating my latest video of our family Xmas 2011 to share with you all....

XMAS SUPRISE

2011-12-16T12:01:00.000+00:00

So after much anticipation and a few clues along the way our family surprise is almost here whoop whoop!! We are all very excited and guessing like crazy about where we will end up Monday early afternoon. We know its somewhere family orientated we know we need swim wear, Wells's may be needed too. We know we will get to meet SANTA!!

The above were all clues given to us. Where do you think we are going? answers below!

I will of course update as and when we've received our surprise followed by a collection of pictures and maybe a video or two........

GETTING READY FOR XMAS 2011

2011-12-09T23:14:00.001+00:00

OK so this is a little late as we've already had our tree up for close to 3 weeks :-) .

It was so nice to to get the tree out all the decorations out sort them out and then as a family put the tree up decorate it and then sit back and admire our joint efforts. THEN!!! our cats undid the lot within 5 minutes GRRRRRRR....Since then every morning without fail I/WE have had to re-arrange and put together the tree into its former glory.

Please remind me why we have cats and not a dog! Don't get me wrong the cats are great company and at times very funny but how annoying and what a chore. However this year and every year from here I am determined not to allow this to ruin my new found Xmas spirit especially as its taken me years to find it again.

How is everyone doing with their Xmas shopping? Has everyone started to relax sit back and gear up for the big week leading to a wonderful few days?

Normally I would be sighing as once again I've left it all to the last minute and now busy rushing around trying to get organised stressing because money is running out and then there's the where do we go first who is goinging to get left out and great I've upset this person this year.

Guess what I can honestly put my hands on my heart and say I am none of the above hahahahaha....

All pressies bought tree up plans made and set and unlucky if you miss out this year as for me its all about me my man and our wonderful special kids We are coming first this year period. Food is all that's left and the almighty task of wrapping the pressies. We are even organised for the kids birthdays hahahaha!!!

HAPPY DAYS!!!

UP-DATE PART 2

2011-12-01T22:01:00.002+00:00

OK so not sure where to really start and if the truth be known I'm not even sure if I truly understand how I'm personally feeling!

So as stated we've had a few appointments throughout November starting with Allen's Croft Children's Centre. I had my reservations because of previous experiences, however I was so glad we went as it turned out to be a worth while and productive appointment. After chatting to our paediatrician who by the way was very nice someone genuine and there for all the right reasons we began planning a tailored made care plan both for the present as well as the future one that can be adapted as when needed. All in all a good present appointment.

Jessica has had her flu jab followed by a cold hence the quietness and delayed updates.

Next was the results from her MRI, CT scans and latest X-RAY.

So this is whats been said...Jessica's curve in her spine has increased by how much or by what rate it is still unclear. As a result Jessica's left lung is now being compromised and is now at risk. Basically as the spine curves and twists its pulling the chest wall inwards preventing the lung from expanding and functioning correctly. The consultant has said whilst her spine is a problem and needs corrective surgery its the lung and the stress and pressure put onto the left chess wall is the main concern so much so they feel that if Jessica stands any chance they need to act sooner rather than later. They have put Jessica to the top of the list and plan to corrective surgery at the beginning of the new year.

The surgery that has been offered is -

GROWING RODS - This is basically a metal rod which can be attach from either the top of the spine or from the bottom!

VEPTR - This is basically a clamped device that can be attached vertically they can be put onto her rib cage hips spine etc...

The consultant feels that the growing rods would benefit Jessica best this is because Jessica has very large gaps in her ribs she also has displaced ribs meaning that the VEPTR device might not be able to be used as she might not have enough bone for the device to be clamped on it might be that her bone isn't as strong as it should be meaning they could break or crumble once the device is clamped.

The consultant has said though they feel they should be prepared for both types of procedures and it might be they need to use do both procedures to give Jessica the best chance.

Like with anything there are no guarantees that either procedure will work they will only really know what they can do if they can do anything once they take her into theatre and open her up.

What they have said is it is unlikely there will be any other options available to Jessica. As you can imagine we her parents we her family hope that one of the above will work.

So after reading the above update how would you respond?

Do you say thank god its not unbearable news...."We can't offer you hope",
Do you thank god for the small amount of hope, that they have said "we have 2 options"

I'll tell you how I feel right now...I feel like I'm stuck in no mans land I feel I dare not hang onto that glimmer of hope for fear of disappointment. I feel scared of the ifs buts and maybes...I'm struggling to find the strength to cope to stay strong and to hold onto whats in front of me. I'm struggling to really know what it is I'm suppose to do say or react. Jessica is such a live wire she's funny smart and willing. She is having a ball she loves her life and I'm loving it with her we all are. Its hard to imagine her any other way its hard to think all this can change at a flip of a coin. The things she will have to learn to do again should the surgery work the things we will have to prepare should the surgery not work etc....Then there is Tom! How will he cope? will he cope? what if we miss something or forget? and so on....As you can see the news is still quite fresh and I'm still trying to process everything that and the fact we are yet to have our meeting where we discuss the surgeries it'll be our chance to ask further questions our chance to find out about the stages to rehabilitation process etc...

For now we are near to Christmas and of course to both Tom and Jessica's birthdays and we cannot wait. We have already put the tree up decorated it and tonight the kids got to start the count down to Xmas via there advent calender. Pressies are almost complete and the food shopping will begin end of next week. For now we are putting the new year stress to one side folding it up putting it into our pockets as there isn't much we can do this side of the new year.

My Baby Girl

UPDATE - TOM

2011-12-01T12:48:00.001+00:00

Wow what a month we've just had full of highs lows stress and pressure. So where to begin!

TOM -

Tom has had rather a difficult term made worse as his 1st term started and finished on such a great positive note. Tom is struggling in many ways his teenage changes behaviour both in school and out of school hasn't been great attitude hasn't been any better his character has been taken over by some alien thing that is neither wanted nor liked! So what have we established as far as contributing factors go.

Tests and assessments in school, something that Tom has never coped with very well with in fact Tom suffers terrible when he knows there coming up. Tom quite literally changes over night. You Tom has always been someone who wants to do well wants to achieve always wants to better himself. So why does he become destructive both to himself and to others? why does he become rude and disrespectful to all those around him? and when he's not busy trying to get himself thrown out of class to try to avoid taking these tests/assessments he's quiet and withdrawn from everyone and everything around him. Tom has developed quite a colourful mouth with attitude started seconds after starting youth club. He's also interfering in other people business to then find himself caught up in the aftermath again since starting youth club, then sits there wondering where it all went wrong then to top it all of he lands himself in hot water again courtesy of his so call friends and a bag full of bangers then Toms asks himself what everyone Else's problem is. One name always crops up, always seems to be apart of every issue that's complained about. By now you would have thought that maybe this particular friend wasn't such a mate after all.
Home life is most definitely a factor things here haven't been stress free it hasn't been an easy environment to be in so much is going on fears frustration upset personal changes we as a family as individuals have been living on the edge for some time now caught up in no mans land with know direction to another place its been hard for us all and it'll get worse be for it gets better. I feel for Tom I understand its not been easy I totally except that he's trying to work out in his own mind where he fits in I aplode him for want to better himself but my god this isn't the way to go about it really!

Unfortunately despite the contributing factors despite having some level of understanding we have had no alternative but to take action we have had no choice but to lay the law down so many of his privileges have been revoked with opportunities to earn them back on a day to day basis. Due to many of the incidents taking place on the way to school and on his way home we've resorted to having to escort Tom to and from school until further notice. weekly contact with his school for a full report until further notice is also in place. The school have been great we have been in and discussed all our concerns and spoken at length with personal issues at home that we as a family are experiencing. They have offered much support and understanding and are willing to work closely with Tom and us as a family during our most difficult times.

On a positive note Toms teachers have assured us that Tom is not seen as a trouble maker he doesn't come close to the really bad children and after taking everything into consideration they feel with the right support in school and at home he will get through this difficult patch making way for the achievements Tom is so desperate to have. I know deep down he'll get through this time of his life I also have faith in him to deal with what lye's ahead but most of all I do love my boy so much but he doesn't half test us at times bless him.

We have 16 days left before Christmas, 21 days before Tom's 12th birthday and 27 days before Jessica's 2nd birthday then a new year a year which will have its own ups and downs.

BRING IT ON

My cheeky little monkey

END OF AN ERA

2011-11-24T22:55:00.000+00:00

Well today madam Jess has entered into the big girls world. Gone is the BABY WALKER used for meal times and now replaced with her very first big girls chair. A bitter sweet sad yet joyful occasion to say the least.

We would like to take this opportunity to show our gratitude to the walker that helped us to help our little madam overcome so many hurdles the biggest being the only piece of equipment she would use to eat her food, for helping to strengthen her legs improve her balance yet offer a safe resting place for when she was tired.

We would like to show our appreciation for offering us parents piece of mind when leaving the room for a second or turning away for a split moment to find that not only was little madam safe but comfortable and happy.

A JOB WELL DONE BY THE BABY WALKER

YOU ARE NOW HERE BY RELEASED FROM YOUR DUTIES

ENJOY YOUR WELL EARNED REST AND RECUPERATION

BOO

2011-11-15T22:34:00.003+00:00

OK so Friday night little lady went to bed as usual by midnight little lady woke up for her bottle unfortunately forgot to go back to sleep 4 hrs later of controlled crying still no joy so out came the last resort "THE SILLY SPOT" at last after sitting on the silly spot for 1 minute Jessica decided it was best she went to sleep. 7am little madam is awake and ready for the day ahead. Great pity mommy and daddy didn't feel the same way to top it we all had a full on day ahead. Usual morning hustle and bustle of breakfast and morning play a quick phone call to my dad as it was his birthday then of to my netball match followed by a club meeting. Eventually I get home some time after 3pm lunch is served before a fast shower and an over night bag for 4 completed. Daddy checked train times as we were of to surprise my dad for his birthday. Finally we leave at 5pm for the train station. by 6:11pm we arrive at our destination where we are greeted after a dash to the local store for a few bits we get into a taxi which was directed to my dads house. My poor dad really didn't have a clue bless him Tom took great pleasure at ducking down at the front door where he jumped up followed by a very loud "BOO" lol dad shot back while holding his ticker in his hand. Once he collected himself he gave Tom a great big cuddle winked and smiled at me Chris and Jess then gave what looked like a grateful approving nod to His partner who for the last 2 weeks had been arranging this surprise along with the one he'd had earlier LUNCH WITH MY BROTHER & SISTERS!

Coffee and dinner went down very well the Indian spread was delight full even the kids approved both of them tried something new and enjoyed.

After we had all settled our belly's little lady had her bath bottle then went off to bed let me just say we did not have a repeat performance in fact madam went straight to sleep and slept through til 8:30the next morning.

Birthday cake followed we all had a small piece lush. Now time for bed as we were off out for a morning trip to a city based animal sanctuary.

Breakfast consisted of bacon sausage egg and beans with toast for us all coffee/tea playtime before getting dressed washed.

WILDPETS

I have to say what a lovely friendly little sanctuary it was and its history is one of those inspiring stories that really does tug at the heart string but in all the right ways.

I'm told that the WILDPETS was started after 2 brothers decided to open up a pet store. The money used was as a result of one of the brothers having an accident resulting in the loss of his legs. This pet store grew into a sanctuary for animals both wild and domestic an affordable place for families to bring there child to see learn and be close to animals they wouldn't normally get the chance to do.

Our kids had so much fun they got to feed some of the animals including the monkeys mongoose the parrots they got to stroke a skunk and armadillo we even got to see to tortoises get a Little frisky to say the least. The bouncy castle as ever was a huge hit with Tom and Jess.

All in all dads birthday surprise went well we all had a great night and morning. I am so glad that we were able to help my dad enjoy his birthday I hope dad enjoyed his birthday as well as his 2 surprises.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRANDAD

BONFIRE NIGHT

2011-11-07T12:44:00.000+00:00

So by now the uk population would have enjoyed a night celebrating a piece of history Mr Guy Forks who unseccessfully tried to blow up the King. Many would have gone to an organised bonfire and firework display assuming their local authority were'nt OTT health and safety conciouse.

We ourselves opted to have our own family bonfire and firework display and my oh my what and evening we had. My mom her husband and my nanna all came round we had fancy party food a small bonfire and plenty of ahhhhh's and ohhhhh's and WOW's all to the tune of each bang crackle and pop that came from each firework. As I tended to the bonfire maintaining its safety in between providing the freshly cooked party food mom kept the kids busy and safe the men did what they do best tending to the owsome fireworks setting them up and letting them off and my nanna did whats she's always done sitting back watching listening and enjoying the company of her family.

Half way through the display I served our food and washed down with milky hot chocolate. A few more fireworks before heading back inside. Poor nanna was shattered so mom took her home made sure she was settled then brought back a curry for us all to eat. I bathed madam Jess who by now was getting tired. Tom played chess with grandad and Chris tired up and chopped more wood for the bonfire. Jess went to bed and Mother returned with the curry! Yummy

By now everyone was winding down Mom and Tom washed and dried up I tired the living room up from the endless toys and books. We let off a few more fireworks off before saying goodnight.

We all had so much fun and although it would have been nice to attend an organized event sometimes the more fun often comes from a more private and personal affair.

BONFIRE NIGHT 20011 !!

WET PLAY CAN BE FUN!

2011-11-06T12:43:00.000+00:00

So the weather this past week hasn't been all that great much to the discussed of Jessica! I can't says I'm to surprised really. You see our little madam tinker just loves to be outside and really doesn't cope to well being cooped up in the warm. I must say I'm not much good either being cooped up although I do appreciate the warm from time to time. I too need to at least have a stroll to our local shop once a day if nothing else. Please note its nothing to do with clean fresh air although ordinarily that is what it would be but we live in a BIG CITY and there is nothing clean and fresh about a city.

OK so Jess and I had been out at least a few times during the week for shopping, appointments and yes we did go via a local park while on way to my doctors appointment as we were alittle early but but neither one of us had really let off some steam so it was great when Auntie S and Cuz R asked if we'd like to join them at a indoor warehouse adventure play area.

We met at mid-day inside of course booked in paid and off we played. First we hit the baby/toddler area complete with slides ball pits soft toy bricks kitchen and house. Before long R got bored and Jess had spotted the indoor football/basketball area....

Playtime Started Here!

Weeeeeeeee!!

A Look at me Mommy I got One!

Look At Me Bee!!

LUNCH!!

So after about 30 Min's lunch arrived which by the way had already been pre-ordered and by Auntie S.
Hot dog and chips, mini choc doughnuts and a drinks all round. Yummy!

Then back off to tackle the bigger kids area poor Auntie S took both kids up to the highest point then they all came a sliding down priceless!

Looking down through a clear ledge!

The 2nd biggest slide!

After about another hour and the massive down pour outside and 2 tired played out kidlets it was time to say thank you and goodbye but not be for Jessica and Cuz R got there well deserved treat!

R and Noddy!

Jess & Fireman Sam!

A good playtime had by all!

A TREAT FOR MOMMY

2011-11-01T23:31:00.001+00:00

So today I decided to just go for it. Go for what you ask! Well for some time now I've consided going back to a red head but not just any red head oh no no no. I've gone RED RED a bright and lively RED is what I've gone for and you know what I LOVE IT. Now I'm considering the possibility of adding a few blond streaks in a few days/nights time if all else fails i have my usual dirty blond hair dye at the ready should I need it!

Now this mommy treat hasn't gone un-noticed to say the least pmsl. Tom gave me a screwed up funny look then carried on watching TV (no surprise there then) and my better half laughed and said ask me again in a few hrs once the colour had settled (No new there then) lol.

As for me I'm happy with the result so far and very much looking forward as well as slightly bemused as to how quick or slow the colour will last or weather it will start to go pink or to that effect.

TO BE CONTINUED!!!

IT'S ALL GO GO GO

2011-11-01T21:52:00.000+00:00

Ok so after a few quiet months it appears to be steadily speeding up once again and it all started from today. Jessica had to be weighed today as it had been a while. The good news is despite being poorly recently she has still gained weight my cheeky monkey little madam has gone from smack on 15lb to a respectable smack on 17lb whoop whoop not only that she has grown taller she has gone from 70cm at her last measurement to 86cm hows about that then! Next appointment for a change is for me it looks like my contraception might be playing games coursing all sorts of irritating problems so its time to get it sorted. Then to cap it all off me and both kids need to have our ANNUL FLU JABS while we are all fit and well.

NEXT WEEK!

We have to take Jessica to our local children's health centre as a referral has been made. It is not clear who or why the referral has been made despite the fact I've expressed my dislike due to previous experiences however that was then this is now so I'm looking forward to seeing what has changed apart from their location. Of course I will update once we have been and of course I will take the opportunity to rant if given a reason too lol!

LATER THIS MONTH!

MRI & CT SCAN RESULTS -
After all this time we have finally received the one appointment we've desperately been waiting for. We can begin to move forward one way or the other knowing were we stand. We can begin a new journey as individuals as a partnership as a family. Of course once we have an update we will in our own time share it regardless of results!

GETTING READY FOR XMAS AND THE KIDS B'DAYS!

OK so normally I'm known for being a bit of a Scrooge. I always leaving Xmas shopping til Xmas eve I never get the Xmas tree and decorate it till 4 days before Xmas and I always bring it down on new years eve. I try very hard to be quiet in the hope I'm forgotten in the past I've always made sure I'm somewhere else other than reachable...BUT not this year I can't really explain the change of heart but what I can tell you is when you have children children with a variety of complications and knowing you could loose them at any time something inside of you changes and that change happens without you knowing it until that last second. I have dug out the Xmas tree its up and awaiting the decor to begin which will take place this SUNDAY EVENING we even have a new feature angel. The Xmas shopping is 3 1/4 done and only the food left to buy and store. I am really looking forward to our family TURKEY BIRD XMAS DINNER with the TRIMMINGS. I'm so looking forward to watching the kids open there presents that Santa has left them as well as the treats that mommy and daddy have bought them then seeing as many family members as we can and sharing some precious moments with them. But first we have Tom's 12th Birthday to celebrate then after we have Jessica's 2nd Birthday to celebrate and of course the celebrations of the last few moments of this years and the beginning of a brand new year, I don't know about you guys but our diary is already filling up lol. I've just read this back to myself and I'm shocked by my own change of heart balled over by my own child like excitement and confused by the lack of recognition of myself and unsure of how or where this happened or began either way I'm pleasantly surprised GO ME WHOOP WHOOP....

TO BE CONTINUED!!!!!!!!

REQUIRED

2011-10-27T14:42:00.001+01:00

**NETBALL PLAYERS REQUIRED**

I am looking for new players to join a local team at Shenley Court leisure centre off Long Nuke Road
Birmingham. Training is on Monday Nights 7-9pm.

We play in the B'ham Womens League both winter and summer.

Any ability excepted experienced or no experience excepted.

There is No maximum age but there is a Minimum age of 16yrs.

If you or you know of anyone that is interested then please get intouch with me for more information.

BAKING

2011-10-25T20:23:00.000+01:00

Ok so I decided to do some baking on Sunday but this time I had not 1 but 2 little helpers..For me this was strange but very enjoyable despite the mess and the "I want to do that", "Can I eat this" as well as the "Me First" pmsl!! Normally I would have freaked within the first few minutes of this and I know I would have definately freaked at the extra mess made BUT instead I just laughed with the kids as well as calmly giving each a job as well as a cloth. The end result was PERFECT banana fairy cakes and chocolate covered banana pieces...YUMMY

Tom was brillent he helped his little sister and Jessica really did listen to her big brother.

Jessica but the mix into the bowl (threw it) Tom added the egg then both of them had a go at the wisking. Then Tom and Jessica had half a banana each of which they chopped up into small pieces (Jessca was helped by mommy). Once they had chopped the banana they each but there half into the bowl followered by more whisking. Then I gave then each a spoon which they used to put the mixture into different sized cup cake holders. I then put all of the fairy cakes into the oven.

While the cakes where cooking we started to make icing as well as melt the cooking chocolate we chopped up more fresh bananas too. Before we began icing the cakes we covered our chopped bananas in the melted chocolate then placed them into the fridge to set. Fairy cakes done we covered them with icing and hundreds of thousands.

CLEARING UP

Well I gave Tom and Jessica a wet cloth each took the lid of the bin and we all started to clean up tom washed up too. Jessica liked wipping the table but loved trying to clean Garfield more. The poor cat was running scared with Jessica cackeling behind him swinging the cloth around saying "come on come on" Me and Tom were crying with laughter and were unable to help the poor thing.

After a lovely Gammon dinner we all ate a cake each as well as our chocolate covered bananas. Everyone really enjoyed there share its fare to say there really wasn't a crumb left!

I don't normally share my kitchen with anyone and have always found the idea cooking with children stressfull even though this was a regular activity when I was a kid. But I feel I've turned a corner and actually found I enjoyed myself it was nice to spend quality time with my kids and at the same time teaching them a new skill....I'm just sorry its taken me so long to discover this!!

I am now planning our next cooking session I'm thinking a real winter warmer like stew or cassarole with fresh crusty bread finished off with fresh fruit jelly all made by me and my little helpers.

VIDEO ADDED

2011-10-23T23:37:00.000+01:00

I have updated Toms page. I have added a video with a collection of pictures of Tom which includes the first scan image taken in 1999 right upto summer 2011! I will be updating Jessicas page which will also include a collection of pictures put into a video as well.

I will also be including a couple of new pages onto my blog so please look out for them. Suggestions are always welcome you can do this by contacting me.

Thank You x

WE ARE PROUD PARENTS

2011-10-18T15:15:00.003+01:00

OK so let me just say a BIG SORRY for not posting much over the last few weeks its been some what up and down full of highs and lows not to mention a visit from MR SNOTTY NOSE COLD!

So where to begin Hmmm...Well after sustaining a pretty nasty ankle sprain during a netball match which required a trip to A&E for an xray to be sure there was no other damage I am pleased to report that I'm on the mend and have returned to full training and in fact played my first real match Saturday just gone WHOOP WHOOP! Although we lost by a couple of goals and the second half of the match being some what pushy despite half the team playing with injuries we played very well and I'm proud of all DOLPHINS 3....WELL DONE LADIES

OK so that's my starter next can some one tell me if they have ever experienced problems with reporting a lost bank card? Can someone tell me have you ever waited longer then 3-4 weeks for a replacement to then insist on picking it up at a branch of your choice? Has anyone else had bank charges for payments that have been refused to find there was no reason for a refusal to then be told it must of been a computer error? I'm sure many of you have had your fair share of banking problems and been pushed to limits beyond acceptance...Well this is whats happened to me over the past few weeks and needless to say I've not been impressed further more I'm still waiting for an apology I doubt very much I'll get it which is why I'm not holding my breath it'll be totally wasted and since my time and energy has already been wasted. I would just like to say I now have a replacement card and it does work!

OK so some fab news to share Tom has been doing very well at school and in fact over the past few weeks his grades have been climbing last night he told me and his dad that for drama he is now a 7A for science he is a 6A but just missed out on a 7 due to forgetting basic punctuation like capital letters and full stops. Tom has decided he will begin to remember the basics so that he can get that 7. Tom has moved up a group for maths and is about to move up for English he is on course for 7's there but in the mean time he around the 6 mark. History and geography between 6 - 7's . All in all just in this short first term of big school he's gone from 4-5 when he started to 6-7's. The school are very pleased with his progress so far and how well he's settled into secondary school life.
WE ARE SO VERY PROUD OF OUR SON..Well done man cub and we love you very much!

RESULT!! So after Tom started to experience bullying again I am pleased to report that once the school got involved and Tom took control there has been no more bullying going on. It is still early days and Tom is yet to join a self defence club of his liking but so far so good.

MR. SNOTTY NOSE & COLD paid our Jessica a visit, poor Jessica wasn't over ally pleased by her visitor she was completely bunged up a slight temp and quite unhappy. Although her appitite had not totally disappeared she was only eating the bare minimum but drinking plenty of both water/juice and milk so thankfully she lost very little weight during the thick of it. We had several bad nights but thankfully we are now all back to normal sleepy nights. Jessica's speech is really starting to improve daily and a lot of hers words are more clearer. Jessica is starting to get more confident with her climbing as her upper body become stronger she can now climb up onto the sofa a full flight of stairs in fact there isn't anything she wont at least attempt. Jessica has also discovered the art of swinging of obstacles this can only mean one thing let the accidents begin!

Tom and Jessica adore there latest addition to our family GARFIELD AKA GINGER NINJA the cat! The pair of them have so much fun with Garfield. Jessica in particular has so much fun chasing Garfield all over the house. They tease each other, cuddle up to each other and when they are apart they miss one another. Miss Crackers however is still Jessica's friend mind. Its obvious that there friendship has changed and moved to another level. Jessica and crackers still play but its much more calmer then when she was a kitten.

Crackers & Garfield

Garfield

Last but not least for the first time ever I've made a start with the Xmas shopping we've already almost completed getting Jessica her Xmas presents but are yet to decide on the perfect birthday present she will be 2 yrs old December. We know what we would like to get Tom for his birthday also in December he will be 12 yrs old but are undecided as what to get him for Xmas. Presents for the grandparents/In laws have been sorted as for siblings and nephews again undecided one is 4 the other will be 2 yrs old. Jessica is really excited about going out and finding the perfect gift for her best friend baby Z who will be 1 yrs old next month.

We have all been looking for new decorations for our tree and few new lights for the garden and getting into the spirit of Xmas even me I know I know first time for everything right! You see for those who know me I'm not one for Xmas to be fair if I could just forget about it I would but this year is different this year I'm trying to make a little bit more of an effort this year even I want it to be special. I look forward to sharing our Xmas/birthday moments.

Well I think that's just about it for now I've pretty much covered the highs and lows of the past month. I will of course be back soon with some new video's as well as a picture album all of which I'm half way through creating.

I hope you enjoy my latest blog cheers all x x x

New Features!

2011-10-08T02:46:00.000+01:00

Just to update you on the new features on my blog.
The new features are now up and running so please feel free to pop over and have a look and read.

I just want to say a big thank you to my other half who I have being bugging for a week now to help me work out how to get the new features up and running.

I would also like to say thank you to Tina for helping my chap for working it out so that I could get the features up and running you are both stars.

ENJOY THE UPDATES AND NEW FEATURES!!!

FREAKING OUT OVERLOAD

2011-10-05T22:57:00.001+01:00

OK so I thought I'd try to put into words why I'm left well and truly knackered!

I always new the time would come where I'd have to except that my little baby boy would one day be a big boy. I always knew that I would find it hard to not freak out at the slightest mishap but my god I never expected it to be this hard. I mean for god sake this is what is suppose to happen you give birth you love nurture protect care and teach basic manners right from wrong respect blar blar blar they grow up and then they fly the nest. SIMPLE RIGHT....UMMM WRONG!

We have spent 11 yrs nearly 12 loving caring protecting our boy we've spent as many years fighting for our sons life we've been to hell and back countless times and now we are expected to allow our boy to start taking on some of our responsibilities which to be fair is only right and fair. SO tell me why am I freaking out as much as I am? Why am I so scared to the point of feeling breathless? Why am I struggling to except that my little baby boy isn't so little anymore more to the point why do I feel lost a little empty maybe not to mention so afraid?

Perhaps its got something to do with the resent bullying issues at school or maybe its got something to with the fact tom was almost robbed by some child after school. All of which we tom's parent felt totally powerless to prevent net alone protect our boy from.

We have decided to enroll tom into a self defence class if for no other reason than to help boost tom's confidence that he can if needs be to protect himself it will hopefully give him the confidence he needs to be able to beat any other bully that preys and targets my boy as well as give him some where to go other than the temptation to hang around street corners this is also another opportunity for him to interact meet and make new friends. All of which Tom is in need of!

Can I just point out that despite how I am feeling my son got to go to youth club tonight for the very first time not only that he was allowed to meet-up with his friends and walk to and from youth club. Can I also point out that I was indeed clock watching and the palm of my hands where not only hot and sweaty but itching beyond belief for a call to say "mom I'm OK I'm here safe I'll see you later and I love you, Mom I've had a fab time" and "I'm on way home can you ask dad to meet me at the bottom of the road"!

Tom had a wicked time at youth club and it would appear that its done him good getting out and being allowed to show as well as prove he can be trusted as well as responsible. I'm so pleased but I'm happy he is home safe and sound. Tom Bought home a consent form allowing him to join the stonehouse gang and become a member meaning I will have to go through this once a week for at least the present...OMG how will we cope! I'm sure in time we will get use to it I'm sure in time we will relax but for now I'm FREAKED OUT!! I'm his mom there for I've earned the right to be freaked out simple!!

Whilst the last few weeks have been stressful both mentally and emotionally I'm so very proud of my big boy I'm proud of myself for not allowing my own anxiety to get in the way of my boy growing up and finding his own way in this world..