Lessons Learned

I'm pretty sure that Olivia will be the source of many of our live's lessons.  But, one lesson I'm sure we will learn over and over again is to not take for granted all the little moments.  And since I promised pictures, enjoy some of our little but very special moments.

Ella has loved this fall.  Playing in the leaves, painting pumpkins, boo movies (aka halloween movies) hot chocolate.  I've been trying to be better about actually taking Ella outside to play.  Olivia's sats are finally lookin' good, ranging from 80-84 on .24 liters which is the lowest we're allowed to go for now.  That combined with her being SO much happier since we started my milk again has made it much more simple to take these little outings to the front yard.  I didn't realize how special they were to Ella until Andrew got home one day after our first really good leaf fight and she had to tell him ALL about it.  She was just so excited.  Ever since then we've tried to go out at least once a day, no matter how cold.  Either during Olivia's nap or we just pack Olivia up in her car-seat which has one of those handy and warm bundle-me's and we camp her out on the front porch (so I don't have to actually hook her up to a tank because they're annoying) and Ella and I play.  Olivia enjoys being outside but doesn't love that I keep trying to put the blanket up around her.  She just can't see very well that way so she swats it down.  Ah well.
Life feels pretty good right now.  Listening to my mama instinct, going against GI, and switching Olivia to my milk was the best decision I ever made.  Ever since then it seems I actually have the stable baby I'm told I have.  It has made Olivia so much happier and being a good mom so much easier.
Ever since Olivia was diagnosed I've been thinking about this little life lesson.  I've already informed Andrew to start saving his pennies because he's taking us on lots of fun vacations over the years.  I've been a picture taking maniac.  And I've grown to love this song.  For those who know me well, you know how much I love music and how much I love to find music that has meaning rather than just a catchy tune.  Well, this has both (at least I think so) so I hope you enjoy.  Also, if you haven't had a chance to watch Meet the Robinsons, from which this song comes, you should.  It's a very cute movie.

I'll admit, this summer I wasn't the best mom.  I was dealing with a LOT of hospital visits, stress, exhaustion, worry, frustration, anger, and just about every other emotion you could think of.  Unfortunately, this meant Ella kind of got lost in it all.  I tried my best and I know what I was able to do was enough for her (because she's amazingly sweet and forgiving) but I'm certainly going to try my hardest to make it up to her now.  A few more leaf fights, bike rides, girl's night snuggles and a snowman later, I'd say we're going pretty good.  And now, I'm off to make some cookies for our tea party.