Home Sweet Home!

Wyatt is home from the hospital and seems to be better than ever!!! He is on steroids for the next 10 days so he is a bundle of energy! Twice he bent over so far he was in the crawling position.... this is a first!!! Then I gave him a bottle for fun and he tried to drink from it...which is another first!!! I sanitized our house, washed all his blankets, changed his sheets, washed Wyatt really good (since he hasn't had a bath since Tuesday:((( We sang... "Go Away Germs!!" Chloe is back from my parent's house too! Benji brought Wyatt home and my Dad brought Chloe home around so the same time, so when they walked in the door I had music playing, lunch ready and we celebrated everyone being home:) We have no plans this weekend... just hoping to get a lot of family time in with two healthy kids:) Thank you all for everything.

Busy Day...Wyatt is doing better

Wyatt is doing better today. He is just back to his old self getting into everything like throwing things over his crib, pulling wires, and talking up a storm. His last Motrin dose was this morning at 9am and he is fever free. I asked to go home since everything that is getting done to him can be done at home but the docs wanted to wait 48 hours to see what the cultures grow. They are investigating into Meningitis. They consulted with Neuroserug but they said Wyatt isn't exhibiting any symptoms of it. So that is the main reason we are waiting around for another day to rule out the serious conditions. We were also able to get his Mexiform strips for his ECMO scar and we have a consult with our GI doc about his current medications. One good thing about coming to the hospital is that Wyatt gets a complete check up! We have a private room and one of us is here with Wyatt at all times. Thank you for all your prayers.

Today, I sneaked away from the hospital to take Chloe with my parents to see Dora at the Hippadrome. She had a great time and it was a special day for all of us! We then stopped at Lexington Market for lunch... which is not a good place to take a 2 year old since it's so crowded and has little seating... but it was a nice get away from the hospital.

Adenovirus

Just found- Wyatt has Adenovirus...It's good news because it's a basic respiratory virus that just has to run it's course. Many kids get it, but because Wyatt has chronic lung disease it is worse for him. So he is still getting admitted so they can watch him. He is still soundly sleeping and I am still sitting here. Not for long, when we move to the 6th floor Wyatt will get examined all over again. He is such a trooper:))

Having a sleep over at Hopkins....

We are going to be admitted probably to the sixth floor. Everything came back negative- RSV, urine, flu... they are now sending blood cultures. No one knows what it could be??? He is going to get a high dose of antibiotics once a day by a shot. The doctor said that the antibiotics will cover conditions such as meningitis which I assume we will explore once we are admitted. He just got another dose of Motrin because his fever is returning, he is soundly sleeping and now we are just waiting to be admitted and then we will wait for a bed... I anticipate I won't get much sleep... good thing I brought my jammies and tooth brush. Benji is coming tomorrow morning with Chloe and if all goes as planned, Benji will hang out with Wyatt while Chloe has a special day going to see the REAL Dora at the Hippodrome!!! I can't wait for the day that we can bring both kids... for now this is our normal:))

Update

We are still here waiting in the same spot and waiting for test results. This is what we know so far. Wyatt's blood work showed that his white blood cell count is 29,000 which is really high and shows inflammation or infection. His white blood cell count is normally high between 19,000-33,000 and normal baby high is 10,000 (I think off the top of my head). The doctor consulted with the hematologist because I was worried about Leukemia but it looks like the differential count (???) is normal which is a good sign!! That is what I love about Hopkins, the ER doc can talk with the hemo doc after 5pm!!(We do have an appointment on April 29th with the hematologist to find out the reason for this high white blood cell count though). Apparently trauma and stress can cause a high white blood cell count and chronic lung disease will cause this too (which Wyatt has). Basically Wyatt was tested for everything- RSV, Flu, Urine culture, blood, x-ray. We are still waiting for RSV, flu, and urine. No answers yet... he did fall asleep and I am just sitting here:))

Field Trip to the Hopkins ER

We are at the ER now. They are doing blood work and an x-ray. He had a 103 fever and 190 heart rate when we can came in. Now after Motrin, his fever is 100 and 166 heart rate. He also has a mysterious rash on the back of his neck. The ER is very nice to us. We checked right in and got a bed in the intermediate care where every one is very attentive (it's in the middle of everything:) Wyatt is now happy and playing. I'll update soon with all the results. Thanks for all your prayers.

It's not too late to vote!

Vote on my poll above... even if it's your first time reading the blog or your millionth time reading it:)) Only 3 days left and feel free to leave a comment about your self or share your blog!

Also, don't forget to vote for my sister's job.... she really wants it!!

I think we are going to the ER today... Wyatt woke up with a fever and heart rate in the 190's. I just don't know what to do. After Motrin, he is a happy baby, but this is the 7th day in a row of having a fever. With a normal child, I would not go... thinking it was a virus, but with Wyatt it could be any number of things like shunt infection, reherniation, RSV or just a simple ear infection or virus. Who knows!! Wyatt definitely gives me gray hair and keeps me on my toes... but I love him!!!

Thank you!

We reached our goal for Crabbing for Cash!!!!!!!!! Thank you friends and family!! I have the best supporters in the world. It's still not too late to donate so click on the link below if you are interested in supporting the Johns Hopkins Children's Center. It's for a wonderful cause! Crabbing for Cash link.

Pictures from this evening....
Storytime with Daddy, Wyatt in a super cool hat, my dinner
(I thought the colors of the veggies looked pretty so I took a picture:)

Go away fever!!!

Since last Wednesday, Wyatt has not been himself. He has been running a low grade fever every day. We took him to the doctor on Thursday and was told it's a virus. Since Benji had the stomach bug at the same time, we thought it is a virus. However, every morning and night and after a nap Wyatt will have a fever of 100 or 101. We give him Motrin and he is fine, back to his old self. This evening he fell asleep at 6:30pm which is earlier than his normal 8pm bedtime. Around 7:30pm, he awoke with a heart rate of 180 (normal awake is 140/ asleep is 110) and a fever, but his oxygen was fine. I just don't know what to do?? Our next step will be the ER, but I would like to avoid it, if this is just a virus. I guess we will wait and see how he is tomorrow. I just want Wyatt to feel better so that he can enjoy the same things that Chloe enjoys like going to music programs, playing outside, etc... After tonight's episode occurred, I checked my e-mail and my friend, Maria sent me the picture below... so I take this as a sign that everything will be ok since she has been by Wyatt's side from the very beginning:)) Please pray for Wyatt to feel better.

Hair!

I hear siblings try to be different... here are pictures of them at the same age. Last December 07, Chloe was 16 month's old, the age Wyatt is now. Here is a slide show of her at the same age Wyatt is now. It is weird for me to look at since Wyatt can not crawl or walk yet... but I know that time is coming soon:) Wyatt has the most gorgeous hair. It's thick and wavy and gets real curly when it's wet. Chloe's hair is the complete opposite. It's perfectly straight (an still pretty). How different they are... but both still very perfect. Below are pictures of the both of them at 16 months old.


Wyatt's wet hair after his bath

Chloe at 16 month's old

Back of Wyatt's head after his bath...look at all the curls!

Vote!

*** edit by Gina** My sister stole my thunder:)) BEFORE you vote for her... vote on my poll first, then vote for her to get this awesome job!!! I am anxious to know who reads my blog:)) and if you wish leave a comment about who you are:))


This is Gina's sister, Danielle.

My husband and I recently applied for "The Best Job in the World," and we need your vote!

There are more than 30,000 applicants, so if you're up for it, I'd like you to not only rate it, but share the link on your blog.


Here's the link:

http://www.islandreefjob.com/applicants/watch/DXecOEwGbVg



If we make it to the top 50, then that's when I'll really need you to spread the word. For now, it is just for your enjoyment and to increase the popularity of the video on their Web site.


Thank you!

Just Curious....

I am just curious who reads Wyatt's blog. I posted a poll at the top of the blog and I would really appreciate if you vote... even if you are just a blog lurker and never leave comments. Don't worry... I have no idea who you are. I am just curious who reads Wyatt's blog. When you read the poll, you may find that you fall under a few categories, but choose the one that best fits you. If you have a child with CDH, then choose "parents of CDH", if one of my friends or family members told you about this blog and you are reading it, then choose "friend of a friend." If you know us personally, then choose "friend or family." If you don't know us or any of our friends, or do not have a child with CDH, then choose "stranger." I really appreciate your vote and thank you for supporting Wyatt and our family. You only have 6 days to vote, so please VOTE!!! Also, feel free to leave a comment about yourself. I would love to get to know my fellow blog readers and feel free to share your blog!

Getting Outside!

Wyatt was feeling a little better later in the day, so I bundled every one up and we went outside to take a walk. After our walk, we played with side-walk chalk and blew bubbles. Wyatt learned a new word today- bubble... he is saying new words all the time now. Some you can not understand, but he tries everything! When you ask him what a dog says, he says "Wuff" When you ask him what a cow says, he says "Moo"... He amazes me everyday:)) Other words include Elmo, more, ma-ma, yeah! , uh-oh and more....








The two photos below are what goes on while I am making dinner... Daddy had story time with both kids, then Chloe went off on her own to read. She is starting to "pretend" read her own books now:))

Chicken Noodle Soup, Jello, Ginger Ale... oh my!!

Chloe and I are the only two well people in our house. I got a call at work on Friday from our fabulous nurse Susan saying that Wyatt has a 101 F. temp for the second day in a row, is requiring more oxygen, and has yellow poop!!! When I called our pediatrician on Thursday, he told me to wait 24 hours and see what happens. So I called our pediatrician back and he squeezed us in for an appointment. As it turns out, he said that Wyatt has a virus and it just has to run it's course. He would rather Wyatt be at home than go to the hospital. Wyatt could have RSV or just the stomach bug, but we have everything need at home to take care of him. He also said, don't worry about the yellow poop! On top of that, my hubby is sick with the stomach virus too. So I made chicken noodle soup, jello, got some ginger ale and off he went to bed! Chloe was a huge help by helping me take care of Daddy and Wyatt:)))))) Wyatt seems to run a 101 temp everyday around 10am for the past few days???? He is still not his best, but I think he is getting better. I just get so worried about him especially when he requires more oxygen because I think the worst like reherniation or bowel obstruction. Normally, if it was Chloe, I would not be calling the doctor so much. I think tomorrow (Sunday) I will be disinfecting our house.

Because Chloe and I are taking care of the male gender in our family, we decided to get out of the house for a little fun today! Chloe and I attended a "Music Together" class at our local library. Wyatt was suppose to come, but he was not feeling well. I just get so bummed out when Wyatt misses opportunities to get out of the house to have fun. After our music class, Chloe and I met her friends, Sophia, CC, Lily, and Molly at a new moon-bounce place. Normally, Chloe is too young for the moon bounce, but this place had some especially for toddlers which made it easy and fun! It was their grand opening so it was free for the day and all the moon-bounces were brand new... which meant less germs:)) I would of never thought of these things before Wyatt. Here are a few pictures of Chloe and her friends.

A few blogs I read

CDH News- We welcome Addison who arrived yesterday!! She is on the oscillating vent and maintaining her stats. Please keep her and her family in your prayers. Click here to view her blog.

I am all about saving money and I just wanted to share a few blogs that I read that focus on saving money.

Money Saving Mom, Crystal, the blog author also has a few other interesting blogs to check out.
Couponing 101
Freebies for Mom
The best place for free samples- click here for the surprise! (I just got the babywipe free sample).

I also just joined the Simple Mom book club and purchased her first three books. Wish me luck!!!

Other blogs I read that are inspiring for Moms
Nie Nie - Stephanie was in a plane crash and was burned severely. You may of heard her story on the news.
Carol Decker - a mom who lost her limbs and sight while giving birth from an infection.

A few Super Moms-
Planted by Streams
Mt. Hope Chronicles
Terps in Memphis
Tot School
1+1+1

You should surround yourself with positive people and the above blogs are full of positive energy!!!

Wyatt News- Wyatt had a fever of 101 and took an earlier than usual nap today. We gave him Motrin and called the doctor. The doctor said to wait 24 hours and see what happens. Wyatt is now his happy self and I hope he stays that way!!! Maybe it was just something normal like teething???

My baby girl is becoming a Big girl:(

Today after Tumble Kicks, I treated Chloe to Chick Fil A. After lunch I decided to take her into the indoor playground. Usually she just plays on the floor level, but I looked away for one minute and when I turned back around, I discovered her at the top!!!! I was a nervous wreck, because the last thing I wanted to do is climb in the little tunnels to find her, but she did just fine. She explored all the little tunnels and didn't mind the bigger kids up there either. In fact, I had to bribe her with a treat to get down. She got down just fine and didn't want to leave.... but I had grocery shopping to get done:)) I am so proud of her!

A fun Sunday!

Wyatt and Molly playing Little People.

Wyatt says, hey Molly, what's in your pocket?

Lily and Molly practicing their coloring

All three playing the piano and singing the ABC's and Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star at the top of their lungs.

Double Trouble... they decided to use the stamp pad and get ink all over their hands, so here in this photo they are washing their hands... (for about 10 minutes:)

Today, Chloe and Wyatt's best friend's came over to play- Lilly and Molly. We shared a super nanny together until she fell in love and flew off to Portland, Oregon:) The girls grew up together and now they go to the same daycare. They love each other and play so nicely with each other. Today we got together for a play date and Wyatt decided to join in on the fun! Wyatt and Molly played Little People together. Wyatt was also off his oxygen for about 2 hours today and was stating 97-98. I really hope we are coming close to our goal for the summer.

Chloe and Wyatt want to say Happy Birthday to Nanny!!!! Nanny loves birthdays, so make sure you go over to her blog and leave a comment!!

And the winner is.....

My give-away was not as big as a hit as I thought:))) It's ok... not everyone wants a soon to be out-dated calendar:))) Thank you all for your comments. And the winner is ......... Francesa Amasia!!!! Congrats! Your new calendar will soon arrive in the mail and if you don't want it... sell it on e-bay:)) Next, time my give away will be more exciting...I promise!!

Valentine's Day

Grand-mom, Aunt Danielle, and Chloe enjoying coffee drinks (Chloe is drinking chocolate milk)as they all watch "The Bear goes Potty."

Wyatt loves to swing upside down! He has no fear!!!

Chloe loves when Aunt Danielle pushes her.. they could swing like this for hours.

My mother gave my daughter a bag of flour for my Valentine's present. On the back was a note stating that in the recent state of econonmy, flowers were too expensive...so here is a bag of flour! Get it... flower=flour!!


This is how you celebrate Valentine's Day when you have two little kids and can not hire just the average babysitter. It's better this way:))


Valentine's Day was a fun day! Chloe spent the night at my parent's house Friday night. That evening my mom and sister took Chloe to see a magic show. Five minutes into the show, Chloe asked very politely- "May I please go home, this is too loud." So they left and went out to eat. Saturday morning, Wyatt and I went to my parents to pick Chloe up. It was a fun day of lounging around with Grand mom, Mom-mom, Pop-pop, Aunt Danielle, etc... When we arrived back home, Benji and I celebrated Valentine's Day by getting take-out Thai food. We were thinking, even before kids we always stayed in on Valentine's Day and made our own dinner... so I guessed we kept with tradition. Click here to read about last year.

Chloe's first Valentine from a boy!

Thank you Jack Jensen for sending Chloe her first valentine from a boy!!! She was so excited to get mail that she kept it in her "play" mailbox for a day before opening it. She was so happy when I read it to her!!



Chloe's first Valentine shoe box to hold all her valentine's cards:) Remember the days?

First Ever Blog Give Away!!

Picture from the website

This is the one I am giving away-


I am having my first ever blog give away!!! Since I am now a reader of many blogs, I have noticed that some blogs host give aways. So I am giving something away to say thank you for always reading, supporting, and caring about Wyatt and Chloe. As you may know, I use the "MomAgenda" for my calendar. I am giving away "MyAgenda" to any reader who does ONE or more of the following-

1. Donate towards Crabbing for Cash Fundraiser that supports the Johns Hopkins Children's Center. (If you have already donated, you are in the drawing). The CDH Mom's formed a team and we are currently in the lead!!!

2. OR post a comment on this blog with a message to Wyatt and/or Chloe. I am planning on making this blog into a nice book using Blurb.com and giving a copy to Wyatt and Chloe when they are older. They will enjoy reading your comments about them!

3. OR for TWO Chances to win- Donate and write a comment:)

* please include your e-mail or blog on the comment so that I can contact you if you are the winner. I'll need to get your address to mail it to you.

* I understand that times may be tough so don't feel obligated to donate... you can also just write a comment. No purchase necessary to win:) I will draw a name on Valentine's Day and the winner will be announced by next Monday. The winner will recieve their MyAgenda in the standard mail. Good luck and don't forget to leave a comment:))))

* Tell your friends!!! Donations go towards a worthy cause- Johns Hopkins Children's Center. They do great things...just look at Wyatt.

The features of a MyAgenda-

Not just for moms!
Unique week-at-a-view format. Monthly views too.
Space for all your appointments, plus four extra spaces per day for important areas of your life.
Stylish, stain-resistant color- Ivory.
17-month calendar runs from August 2008 through December 2009.
A $33.99 Value, brand new, still in the package!
Size 5x7x1

Gifted Hands, a movie about Dr. Ben Carson, Wyatt's Neurosurgeon

Wyatt's Neurosurgeon, Dr. Ben Carson is a wonderful person and a movie was just came out about his life. Carson is played by Cuba Gooding Jr. The movie premiered on TNT Saturday night, but will be airing through out the month. Click here for more information.

I remember when Wyatt had his head bleed when he was only about 15 days old... he was still very sedated and intubated, so he had no voice and was very sleepy. I had no idea what the outcome would be and it was very scary and if you search on the internet for IVH Grade 4, it is very scary.. I remember two things that Dr. Carson told me... to pray and that God was good. Each time we have an appointment with Dr. Carson, he is so relaxed, does not rush, and answers all our questions. It is exciting that a movie was made about him! We TiVo'd the movie so we will watch it this week... I went out with my neighborhood girl friends on Saturday night to see an 80's band... The Reagan Years. They were great!!!

A relaxing Sunday

Today Chloe attended a birthday party at Gym Jam and she loved it. Here are a few pics.

Also, thank you for everyone who has donated to the Johns Hopkins Children's Center. I have the best friends in the world who have supported our family from the very beginning and still continue to. Thank you and it's still not too late to donate. Our team, CDH moms is one of the leading teams!!!

It was almost 60 degrees today, so we took Chloe and Wyatt for a walk outside and then both kids drew on the sidewalk with chalk. (well kind of... Wyatt threw the chalk!)