tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91349296283822152102024-03-13T12:58:33.081-04:00Our Journey to 6The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart.
Helen KellerBecca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.comBlogger103125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-62024424968044347512021-03-04T15:25:00.001-05:002021-03-04T15:25:18.973-05:00Our new normal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZegsDGmxysg/YEFBOTqImTI/AAAAAAAAKiM/osDeIkeD4IQAaZV2TSg5HXv1SXrlObOUQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_7963.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZegsDGmxysg/YEFBOTqImTI/AAAAAAAAKiM/osDeIkeD4IQAaZV2TSg5HXv1SXrlObOUQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_7963.HEIC" /></a></div><br /><p>11 days. So much has changed in 11 days. I am going to write about it here so years from now I can look back and see how far we have come. 12 days ago I had no idea. Blissfully unaware, we were dealing with other problems that were already enough to say- "I can't handle any more right now," and "God, my plate is overflowing with worry, and appointments, and sick kiddos- please take some of it away." Saturday night, the 20th into the 21st, I could not sleep. Not unusual, my brain kicks into high gear when I am finally quiet and I over think and over worry about life. I usually recite Psalm 19:14 - "Let the words of my mouth and the mediation of my heart be acceptable to you, oh Lord, my strength and my redeemer." But I could not, for the life of me, remember that verse. The verse I have recited one thousand times. Instead, Psalm 56:3 is the only verse I could remember - "When I am afraid I will trust in You." And I remember lying in bed thinking - I am not afraid, why is that verse in my head?! Sunday morning we served at church - opening doors and greeting people, and then we came home to do virtual church. I'll never forget - I was doing yoga and Noah told me his mouth felt like I had shoved a bag of cotton balls in it. We borrowed a glucometer from a neighbor (thanks Lisa!) and 530 showed on the screen. After packing multiple bags, we headed to Hopkins peds er where he was promptly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Two days filled with needles, and doctors, and carb counting, and dietians, and information overload - all the while I felt like I was going to wake up any minute and it would all have been a very bad dream.</p><p>Quick side note here - I called my twin sis Liz when we were packing for the hospital. Her son Ben was diagnosed one year and two days before noah with T1D. And we would not be were we are today without her. By the time we made it to the hospital, she had virtually ordered all of Amazon and sent it to my house. Things I would never have been able to find, things I didn't know we needed. Low carb snacks, peanuts, skinny pop, protein bars, zero gatorade, juice boxes, sharps containers, fruit snacks, glucose tabs, a bacon pan, a kitchen scale, a diabetic organizer, and pages upon pages of foods with weights corresponding to carb content. She has taken my 100 calls a day without hesitation, and she and Ben have talked Noah through injection site problems, dexcom issues, and carb questions. I am a hot mess, but without her, I am not sure I would be functioning.</p><p>Fast forward 10 days. Our lives have forever changed. More specifically, Noah's life has forever changed and we are along for the ride. We have a new vocabulary and nifty new gadgets sprinkled throughout our house. There are sharps containers everywhere, and a diabetes snack drawer in our island. Our refrigerator has papers hanging on it with carb counts, what to do if he drops under 70, or is 70-100, what foods are "free", and what his current insulin ratio and sliding scale are (these change almost daily). We say words like dexcom, cgm, insulin pump, tresiba, in a language we hadn't used prior to 11 days ago. Momma bear appeared with the insurance company, spending hours fighting for an item that is standard of care for T1D. And through it all, Noah has been amazing. Let's be honest, he has many days when he is not happy, is frustrated and angry, is mourning the loss of the ease of life he once knew, mourning being able to eat absolutely whatever he wanted whenever he wanted without thinking about it. But he has taken total control of his diabetes and counts all of his own carbs, figures out his insulin requirements, and pokes that needle into his arm, leg, stomach 4 times a day. We often hear, "That's not worth my carbs":).</p><p>So many people have asked how we are doing - here is a glimpse into our daily life. I wake up 45 minutes before the kiddos, and start my day being a short order chef for breakfast. What used to be a meal filled with cereal and fruit has turned into bacon, eggs, waffles, and fruit for noah, and a combination of that for the rest. He calculates his carbs for breakfast, injects his insulin and eats. With his continuous glucose monitor he is able to see if he is high or low during school, prompting either a snack or a quick run around the cul de sac (thanks virtual school:). Then carb counting for lunch, weighing the blueberries, choosing what carbs he wants and then finding other foods to fill him up. More needles. Then sports - the cause of even more gray hairs on my head. Exercise burns energy resulting in plummeting blood sugar. So he eats carbs before tennis or swim, and then has to check his blood sugar every 30 minutes during practice (so much easier with the CGM - a flick of his wrist and his current blood sugar pops on the screen). Then he stops practicing and goes to grab a snack, and then repeats the process every 30 minutes, until he drops too low and has to stop practicing. Home for supper, carb counting, insulin, trying to figure out how many french fries are in 20 grams of carbs (not enough- that's for sure!). and throughout the day, he will go high or low for no apparent reason - like last thursday when he almost passed out during his ap calc class with a blood sugar of 72! and I just have to keep reminding myself to breathe.</p><p>We have been so blessed with a village of friends who have loved and supported us with food, and cards, and wine:), and balloons, and flowers, and texts, and calls, and prayers. And I am breathing, and sometimes eating (the feeling of dread is constant), and hardly sleeping. And I am trying to be real with people when they ask how we are doing, which throws many people off because they are so used to me saying we are fine! But we are not. We are coping and adjusting, we are angry and sad, we are hopeful and thankful. Thankful that this happened now and not next year when he is 5.5 hours away at college. Thankful we caught it so early. Thankful for amazing doctors and nurses. Hopeful for new technology. And through it all, He is faithful. Not going to lie, I have been very angry with God. My plate was already full, overflowing, but now I have an elephant standing on my plate. A large elephant who won't budge. My kiddos go through so much pain, and I look around at other families who do not struggle with childhood diseases and I try so hard not to covet their lives. But through my anger, I know He is there. He is the reason I can breathe, the reason I find things to smile about. He is behind every hug, every ray of sunshine, every meal brought to us. I have heard so many times in the last week, "God never gives you more than you can handle". Not so big on that statement to be honest. I can't handle any of this. If you think I can you are wrong. I know I seem so strong on the outside, but just breathing takes effort most days. But I will handle it with God carrying me. I will be the mother my kiddos need because He equips be, not because I am strong. Isaiah 40:31 is my life verse, and right now I am waiting on Him to renew my strength, to be my strength. I will run, and I will soar, not because of me, but because of who I am in Him. Not today, not tomorrow, but soon.</p>Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-62488393727231704272020-11-16T16:09:00.004-05:002020-11-16T16:21:22.161-05:0013!!!!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kgZUab2fSu4/X7LtH37dY7I/AAAAAAAAKRM/IcbeptLY2Vc5ZdK1v5hmnutXgdWAAMu9QCLcBGAsYHQ/s960/125945893_10225041929253335_8751676659347001160_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kgZUab2fSu4/X7LtH37dY7I/AAAAAAAAKRM/IcbeptLY2Vc5ZdK1v5hmnutXgdWAAMu9QCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/125945893_10225041929253335_8751676659347001160_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--BRqLT88QWE/X7LtJm5UIlI/AAAAAAAAKRQ/3uwEk-N-HFgND2XoIdzaRPrmJTnH0wkJgCLcBGAsYHQ/s960/125945893_10225041928813324_4582086122184921899_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--BRqLT88QWE/X7LtJm5UIlI/AAAAAAAAKRQ/3uwEk-N-HFgND2XoIdzaRPrmJTnH0wkJgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/125945893_10225041928813324_4582086122184921899_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k9phifgn06I/X7LtK2eeOuI/AAAAAAAAKRU/AmHtk33CJE8m1fLHXRpmCT10pPT2K8KHACLcBGAsYHQ/s960/125935669_10225041931053380_3189379037324348113_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k9phifgn06I/X7LtK2eeOuI/AAAAAAAAKRU/AmHtk33CJE8m1fLHXRpmCT10pPT2K8KHACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/125935669_10225041931053380_3189379037324348113_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DoTecdqrT9g/X7LtMWkbwpI/AAAAAAAAKRY/qDcPrOHWBXIpXHOVVtRqZ_AUvspMETjiACLcBGAsYHQ/s960/125935669_10225041928213309_5022608091016306057_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DoTecdqrT9g/X7LtMWkbwpI/AAAAAAAAKRY/qDcPrOHWBXIpXHOVVtRqZ_AUvspMETjiACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/125935669_10225041928213309_5022608091016306057_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3qQE2_gc9UA/X7LtN1JallI/AAAAAAAAKRc/J8bltQj6ycAAy1S9OLDvEnw2v0RSukCNgCLcBGAsYHQ/s960/125932061_10225041928733322_2851408072047412791_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3qQE2_gc9UA/X7LtN1JallI/AAAAAAAAKRc/J8bltQj6ycAAy1S9OLDvEnw2v0RSukCNgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/125932061_10225041928733322_2851408072047412791_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CtLrCuG4RBA/X7LtPdd8zNI/AAAAAAAAKRg/ERZnJ2xq71waxOQil1mwRZC_WoIZJXpQQCLcBGAsYHQ/s960/125854239_10225041928333312_428103501981370800_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CtLrCuG4RBA/X7LtPdd8zNI/AAAAAAAAKRg/ERZnJ2xq71waxOQil1mwRZC_WoIZJXpQQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/125854239_10225041928333312_428103501981370800_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N-PK5NOcbPk/X7LtQgYhIkI/AAAAAAAAKRk/uJpRFOILbnc7JejIPydKmQTpf2uHpI42wCLcBGAsYHQ/s960/125764340_10225041929773348_2870082318473963946_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N-PK5NOcbPk/X7LtQgYhIkI/AAAAAAAAKRk/uJpRFOILbnc7JejIPydKmQTpf2uHpI42wCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/125764340_10225041929773348_2870082318473963946_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> Happy 13th birthday to our Hannah!!! Sweet girl, you are our constant sunshine, our Pinterest loving cuddle bug. You are the bravest, strongest person I know and I want to be just like you when I grow up. I pray this year bring you so much joy and love and laughter and health!!!! We are so thankful for you!! Happy birthday my sunshine ☀️ ❤️❤️<p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-44574147160925707412019-06-13T18:31:00.000-04:002019-06-13T18:31:21.677-04:00An Update<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Well, I had hoped that I would be updating you all that the new drug worked for Hannah, that her psoriatic and rheumatoid arthritis was in remission or at least getting better, and that she was pain free. Unfortunately that's not our update. Hannah has had three injections of Stelara, the new biologic that she was prescribed when we stopped her Enbrel. It has been over 14 weeks since the first shot, and with this biologic, we should have seen some improvement or at least the stop of the progression of the disease. Her psoriatic arthritis is continuing to spread, and her rheumatoid arthritis is now flaring, and in new joints - specifically in both of her feet. She has pain every day, but is trying so hard to stay normal and finish the school year strong! And every time her rheumatoid arthritis flares, she develops uveitis in her eyes. We saw the pediatric ophthalmologist last week, and she has developed inflammation in both her eyes. She is on steroid eyes drops multiple times a day, hopefully keeping the inflammation from causing permanent damage. <br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CPzCN7FZZ4o/XQLNM_RVh5I/AAAAAAAAJIk/SDlTlFXeUvsloGFb9GLwMlbxGWGvwDzewCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CPzCN7FZZ4o/XQLNM_RVh5I/AAAAAAAAJIk/SDlTlFXeUvsloGFb9GLwMlbxGWGvwDzewCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_5582.JPG" width="240" /></a>So after a long conference with her rheumatologist on Monday, we decided together to put her on Humira, a drug similar to Enbrel. She will receive injections every other week, and we are praying with faith that this biologic will halt the progression of all three diseases that she has, and give her relief from the pain. But, through it all, we have seen God's faithfulness and we are thankful. Thankful for doctors who take the time to talk, explain, and commiserate with us. Thankful for an amazing team of nurses at CHOP who call and check on us and truly care how our whole family is coping. Thankful that after months of fighting with our insurance company for drug approval, when the Humira was prescribed, it was approved in less than 36 hours and will be at our home tomorrow so that Hannah can receive her first injection tomorrow. Thankful for our daughter's sweet spirit and constant joy - her attitude is always hopeful and she finds the best in every situation. We covet your prayers - please pray that the Humira works, as we are running out of options for treatment. Please pray that the new drug works quickly, and that there are not side effects or reactions. Hannah still has some of the Stelara in her system, as it is an every 12 week drug, and so adding the Humira further suppresses her immune system and leaves her susceptible to infection. Even a simple cold could cause her to become extremely sick. Please pray for protection for our girl, and for her to be able to enjoy her summer and get ready to enter middle school! Thank you for being on this crazy journey with us!<br />
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Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-80690035897319228132019-03-11T09:40:00.000-04:002019-03-11T09:49:27.397-04:00Waiting<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6jfemph5Wxk/XIZl2ByYfDI/AAAAAAAAI6A/E5r8cAc_z6wYYyEmDHArc8cIwRXp_T-cgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6jfemph5Wxk/XIZl2ByYfDI/AAAAAAAAI6A/E5r8cAc_z6wYYyEmDHArc8cIwRXp_T-cgCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_0014.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6jfemph5Wxk/XIZl2ByYfDI/AAAAAAAAI6A/E5r8cAc_z6wYYyEmDHArc8cIwRXp_T-cgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6jfemph5Wxk/XIZl2ByYfDI/AAAAAAAAI6A/E5r8cAc_z6wYYyEmDHArc8cIwRXp_T-cgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></a><span style="text-align: left;">I am not a patient perso</span><span style="text-align: left;">n. At all. I have alw</span><span style="text-align: left;">ays found it ironic that the life verse that I choose years ago speaks about waiting (Isaiah 40:31) - I am positive that God has a sense of humor! Anyways, I hate waiting. Over the past few years I have been working on trying to enjoy the journey, and not hurry to the finish. Now, more than ever, I am struggling in the wait. Will her new medication work? How soon? If it doesn't what next? Every day I look at her fingers and heels, and nothing has changed. In fact, her fingers are progressively getting worse. So we wait. And I attempt to not be consumed with questions, worry, and anxiety. </span><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6jfemph5Wxk/XIZl2ByYfDI/AAAAAAAAI6A/E5r8cAc_z6wYYyEmDHArc8cIwRXp_T-cgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></a></div>
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I will trust in You. We will wait for Your healing. I will look for the little things that you send each day, reminders that you are in control. </div>
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She woke up this morning and was only a little stiff walking.</div>
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She was able to balance on her left foot for 30 seconds yesterday - two years ago she couldn't stand on that foot alone at all.</div>
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She played with friends yesterday without needing medicine for pain.</div>
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She walked into school with a smile today.</div>
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She is home.</div>
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Simple reminders. But they are filled with hope and healing. </div>
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Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-35325494857027653592019-03-02T15:07:00.003-05:002019-03-02T15:07:23.125-05:00My heart<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
This entry is for Hannah, but we would be honored for you all to share in our journey.<br />
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Oh my girl - mommy doesn't even know where to begin. You have been my hero since you were born. A struggle even before you entered the world, you were our fighter. Days in the NICU, home on a heart monitor, multiple doctors and unknowns. Many sleepless nights for mommy - and I now treasure every one.</div>
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You are so strong.</div>
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Then at 18 months, the unknown again. Why was your ankle swollen, why were you in so much pain? Again, multiple doctors and tests. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis. How is that even possible at 18 months? Why God? Meds, injections, inflammation in your eyes. Trying to hold you down to put drops in every two hours, trying to keep sunglasses on a two year old every time we went outside. We prayed for healing, for answers, for understanding. You were our fighter.</div>
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You are so strong.</div>
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Fall of 2011. Your arthritis was still there, but most days you were running around playing. And then you threw up, one random day in September. Just once. You know mommy - my little ticking time bombs. I hate the stomach bug! But no one else got it. A few weeks later, you threw up again. Once. But no one else. And then again, and a week later again. Your labs were fine, once in awhile you would complain about your left side hurting. You started losing weight. I finally took you to the emergency room right before Christmas. They told me you had anxiety-related reflux - I know, those preschool days were rough:). Momma didn't buy it and I refused to leave until they did a scan of your belly. They did an ultrasound to pacify me (I'm sure they had choice words to say about me demanding they scan you) and I could tell from the ultrasound tech's face that something was wrong. You had severe hydronephrosis (your left kidney was grossly enlarged), and that was causing the side pain and vomiting. They sent us immediately down to Maria Fareri Children's Hospital to see Dr. Lori Dyer. Starting in January, you had 5 surgeries over the next 5 months, to place stents, fix an obstruction, more stents, and finallyto reconstruct your ureters and bladder. We spent weeks in the hospital and you never stopped smiling or amazing us with your gorgeous smile and never-ending positive attitude. I prayed constantly - for God to take this from you and give it to me. For complete healing. For just one pain-free day. To steady Dr. Lori's hands as she operated on you for 6 hours. You were only 4.</div>
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You are so strong.</div>
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Over the next 6 years, we saw doctors constantly. Rheumatology, urology, ophthalmology.... ultrasounds, mri's labs. You were started on low-dose chemo for your arthritis. I injected you with it every Saturday night and you would spend the next 36 hours vomiting. It was the hardest thing I had ever done - sticking that needle into your stomach knowing I was injecting a toxic chemical into your body that was going to make your hair fall out and cause vomiting for days. Every week. You had pain every day, you wore braces on your little ankles to stop them from growing the wrong way. And yet you were my constant sunshine, always smiling, always thanking me for giving you your injections. Oh, my heart broke every day. And I dreaded Saturday nights. Why God? Why? Give it to me. I'll gladly take it for her. I prayed that you would never know that my hand shook while I was drawing up your chemo, that I desperately wanted to run away every Saturday night so I didn't have to make you sick. I prayed constantly, many days without words, just my heart broken for you and knowing that He knew my longings, my unspoken words.</div>
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You are so strong.</div>
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April 18, 2015. You were jumping on the trampoline and I heard a scream I will never forget. You had shattered your tibia and fibula in over 15 different places. Surgery. A bright pink cast from hip to toes for 6 weeks. Wheelchair to couch to wheelchair. Then a below the knee cast for 6 weeks with crutches. Then a walking boot for a month. No swimming in our pool, you had to watch your siblings play and have fun while you sat on the sidelines. I cried with you, held you when you said "it's not fair, why me again"? And then you dried you tears and smiled and went on with life. You amaze me with your strength, physically, emotionally, mentally. And after all the casts and boots were off, what did you do? You jumped on the trampoline!</div>
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You are so strong.</div>
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February 2017. We had found doctors for you at Hopkins, but you were not getting better, in fact your arthritis had spread to both ankles, your back, and possibly your jaw. We prayed about what to do, and we finally switched to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and met Dr. Weaver. His strong presence instantly calmed us both, and he had you laughing within minutes. But he told us what I had been dreading - you were getting worse and we needed to switch your meds. To Enbrel. Another injection, this one with the possible side effect of lymphoma or leukemia later in life. Dear God - How do I make that decision? How can I inject her with that knowing what it might cause? He calmly explained what could happen if we didn't start it and we knew that he was right, you needed it. $1200 a week sitting in my fridge door. I wanted to vomit. Every friday night you continued to thank me when I gave you your injection. I wish I could say it got easier for me - I give hundreds of shots a year at work and don't even think about it. But my sweet girl, you are my heart, and it shatters every time I draw up your meds. But it worked. You started to feel better. You weren't losing your hair, you didn't throw up at all. You were able to go to the mall and not sit in your wheelchair the whole time. The mornings became easier - you could move without horrible pain and you didn't need to sit in a warm bathtub in able to move. We prayed for complete healing, we thanked God for pain-free days. We thanked God for every day you weren't in the hospital.</div>
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You are so strong.</div>
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Summer 2018. You came to me and said you had a few bumps around your left thumb. I told you not to pick them:). And then they spread. Under your nail, and then the nail fell off. Countless doctors, meds, pills, creams, ointments. Nothing helped. And we have no idea whats happening to your joints inside, we can only see the outside. The whole time my heart cried out to our God - please no. Not again. Hasn't she gone through enough? Give it to me. Please. In August we received a new diagnosis, and a medicine that seemed to help. But then it stopped. And it spread. Your fingers and heels look so painful precious one. Cracked, bleeding. How do you do it every day? You get up, snuggle with me, all smiles, ready to take on the day. I look around and see all the healthy children and I am screaming on the inside - why you? why more? please no! But you are here, not in the hospital. You are home, constantly positive, my sunshine. And now we have a new drug, one with the potential to take this away. $20,000 sitting in my fridge. But will it? Only He knows. But I rest today in the knowledge that He has never left us, none of this is a surprise to Him. He loves you so much more than I can ever comprehend. Oh sweet girl, I pray you continue to feel His love and experience His peace.</div>
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You are so strong.</div>
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You are my singer, and there is nothing that you love more in the morning before school than turning on the speaker and belting out songs with mommy. Our song has always been "Trust in You" by Lauren Daigle. Precious one, never forget the words of our song. Momma loves you.</div>
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You are so strong.</div>
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<div class="G1VCxe kno-fb-ctx" jsname="rdVbIe" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: small; margin-top: 12px;">
<div jsname="U8S5sf" style="line-height: 1.24; margin-bottom: 12px; text-align: left;">
<span jsname="YS01Ge">Letting go of every single dream</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">I lay each one down at Your feet</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Every moment of my wandering</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Never changes what You see</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">I try to win this war</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">I confess, my hands are weary, I need Your rest</span><br />Mighty warrior, king of the fight<br />No matter what I face You're by my side</div>
<div jsname="U8S5sf" style="line-height: 1.24; margin-bottom: 12px; text-align: left;">
When You don't move the mountains<br />I'm needing You to move<br />When You don't part the waters<br />I wish I could walk through</div>
<div jsname="U8S5sf" style="line-height: 1.24; margin-bottom: 12px; text-align: left;">
When You don't give the answers</div>
<div jsname="U8S5sf" style="line-height: 1.24; margin-bottom: 12px;">
<span jsname="YS01Ge">As I cry out to You</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">I will trust, I will trust, I will trust in You</span></div>
<div jsname="U8S5sf" style="line-height: 1.24; margin-bottom: 12px;">
<span jsname="YS01Ge">Truth is, You know what tomorrow brings</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">There's not a day ahead You have not seen</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">So let all things be my life and breath</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">I want what You want Lord and nothing less</span></div>
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<div class="G1VCxe kno-fb-ctx" jsname="wq5Syf" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
<div class="iw7h9e" data-mh="-1" jsname="U8S5sf" style="line-height: 1.24; margin-bottom: 12px;">
<span jsname="YS01Ge">When You don't move the mountains</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">I'm needing You to move</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">When You don't part the waters</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">I wish I could walk through</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">When You don't give the answers</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">As I cry out to You</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">I will trust, I will trust, I will trust in You</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">I will trust in You</span></div>
<div class="xpdxpnd" data-mh="128" data-mhc="1" jsname="U8S5sf" style="line-height: 1.24; margin-bottom: 12px; max-height: 128px; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease 0s;">
<span jsname="YS01Ge">You are my strength and comfort</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You are my steady hand</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You are my firm foudation</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">The rock on which I stand</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Your ways are always higher</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Your plans are always good</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">There's not a place where I'll go</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You've not already stood</span></div>
<div class="xpdxpnd" data-mh="160" data-mhc="1" jsname="U8S5sf" style="line-height: 1.24; margin-bottom: 0px; max-height: 160px; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease 0s;">
<span jsname="YS01Ge">When You don't move the mountains</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">I'm needing You to move</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">When You don't part the waters</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">I wish I could walk through</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">When You don't give the answers</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">As I cry out to You</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">I will trust, I will trust, I will trust in You</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">I will trust in You</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">I will trust in You</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">I will trust in You</span></div>
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Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-77143791054937824882019-02-27T19:57:00.003-05:002019-02-27T19:57:29.046-05:00His faithfulness!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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February 27, 2019 - I cannot believe it has been over 5 years since I blogged! I could use the excuse of 4 kiddos, a move to Maryland, new jobs (for both Eric and I), high school for two boys (how in the world did that happen?), health struggles, etc .... but let's be honest - I forgot! In the day to day crazy it is hard for me to sit down and type out my thoughts. But today I need to write, to remind myself of His great faithfulness in our lives. My life verse is Isaiah 40:31 - They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. I pray this hundreds of times a day. Many of you do not know, but Hannah has been struggling physically since last summer. We noticed some spots on her left thumb during the summer, it looked like a cluster of little pustules. It spread quickly, under her nail, which fell off and the nail bed continued to have many many yellowish bumps and it was bright red and sore. We took her to her pediatrician, her rheumatologist, and many dermatologists. They said she had a bacterial injection, a virus, a fungal infection. She was prescribed countless antibiotics and creams. Nothing worked. Our insurance company suggested that we contact best doctors, which is a consortium of specialists throughout the country that consult on difficult cases. On August 24, 2018, a professor at the University of Florida Miami diagnosed her with just her case study and pictures with Hallopeau's acrodermitis, a very rare and extremely difficult type of psoriasis. A topical cream was prescribed and overnight the redness and pustules disappeared! We were elated! The nail started to grow back, and then more pustules appeared. And we noticed pustules forming under the skin of her heels. Back to the rheumatologist in Philadelphia, who got us in with a pediatric dermatologist at CHOP the same day (I cannot tell you how amazing every single person is at CHOP - they are angels on earth!). The peds dermatologist recognized the hallopeau's acrodermitis immediately (finally!) and said that she has psoriatic arthritis, on top of her rheumatoid arthritis. This was in October 2018. We (dermatology, rheumatology and eric and I!) chose to keep her on her weekly injections of Enbrel and daily oral leflunomide, as her arthritis was the best that it has ever been (there has even been talk of weaning meds), and use topical treatments. A change in biologic was mentioned as a treatment if the topical treatment did not work. (quick facts on biologics - they are a newish class of drugs that have proven to be very effective in treatment/slowing progression of autoimmune diseases. They do come with risks - like increased risks of lymphoma, leukemia, immuno-suppresion and they are extremely expensive - Hannah's enbrel cost approximately $1200 an injection and she receives those weekly). in a very very small percentage of cases Enbrel can cause psoriasis (like 0.01%) but it usually used to treat it. Fast forward to January 7 - we had appointments at Chop with rheumatology and dermatology. Her finger had not improved - it was spreading to surrounding tissue and her heels were cracked, bleeding, and full of pustules. Reading online about Hallopeau's acrodermatitis is frightening - permanent joint damage, loss of fingers, and of course the knowledge that if this is what we see on the outside the psoriatic arthritis could be causing irreversible damage on the inside. Her doctors had talked before we arrived and it was decided that we would switch her to a new biologic Stelara. This is scary for us - switching her from the enbrel could mean the return of swelling and pain, or it could mean total relief and remission! Stelara has an incredible response rate - 70% of patients show a 75% reduction in symptoms in the first 4-12 weeks of treatment! We prayed over the decision and felt peace about moving forward. The prescription was sent to our insurance's prior authorization department (Eric's company was bought by another company in September 2018 and our insurance switched from carefirst BCBS to anthem BCBS). We had never had a problem getting coverage for her meds - and I was totally unprepared for the journey we were about to embark on. Over the next 6 weeks, her medication was denied multiple times for a variety of different reasons. Every time we called the insurance company they told us they never received a prior authorization request, they had no idea what I was talking about, etc. I finally asked for a nurse case manager, and while she doesn't actually help with what we need , she was a third party on the line every time I called the insurance company. Last friday, the 22nd of February, the nurse case manager called me and said she had called to check on the drug approval and they said there was no record again. But this time I had her! She escalated our case to a manager, who apologized profusely and said he was going to work on it over the weekend. I'll be honest - I was not holding my breath. Through this all we were praying constantly, struggling to trust that our God loves our girl even more than we do and that none of this was out of His control. The bumps spread to another finger, and she was probably now lose that nail as well. It is so hard to see her is pain and hurting, knowing that there is nothing I can do but hold her and cry with her. Walking hurts at times because her heels are cracked and often bleeding. We pray for healing, for pain relief, for peace. And we wait in Him, on His timing, because I firmly believe that our girl is going to soar! On Monday February 25th, we received the news from our ped rheumatologist that the medication was approved!! The injection is being over-nighted to our house so that I can give it to her on Friday night. We are praying that it works and stops the spread of her psoriatic disease, that her joints do not flare, and that she does not lose her fingers. We also have to watch her eyes closely as she has had uveitis (inflammation of the middle layer of the eye) and when her arthritis flares she is at increased risk of that returning - it can cause permanent blindness. But He is faithful, and we cling to Jeremiah 29:11 <span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: , , , , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">- "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to have you hope and a future."</span></span><br />
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Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-90329695235690699182013-05-03T09:40:00.002-04:002013-05-03T09:40:56.074-04:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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How does this happen? Months and months go by, filled with growing children, hard times, laughter, tears, and life....and the blog sits. I read other blogs daily and think - I should put something on my blog. But I am pulled away and months go by. So I will do another catch up post about our life from last summer:).<br />
We are blessed. I often forget that in the day-to-day crazy of raising four kiddos, but oh, we are blessed. Our tummies are full, our house is warm, we are blessed by doctor's who can "fix" us, we are blessed by friends who encourage us. We are blessed by family who "gets" us.<br />
We traveled with the boys in August to Guatemala to visit our friends Dan and Christi (who adopted Malachi at the same time we adopted Alle). It was amazing to see a third world country through the boys eyes, and both of them were in tears when we left, already asking when we could return. We are going back this June to Village of Hope with the boys and cannot wait to serve and bless our precious friends.<br />
The kiddos - goodness, I wish they would stop growing. Noah turned 10 in April, and this momma is having trouble with the double digits. He is full of fun - loves to be outside playing with friends, but is still my little boy who snuggles and wants his back scratched (such his momma's boy:). Jadon is only 8, but is almost as tall as his brother and that boy, oh that boy. He has the most precious soft heart and loves to just be at home reading on the couch (again, his momma's boy:). The boys started swimming for the Snapper's swim team in October and they had so much fun this winter!!! They both qualified for the championship and we are eagerly waiting for summer swim team to start in june! Hannah is 5 now, and has sprouted in the last few months. Her rheumatoid arthritis is beginning to flare (we think) but she is keeping busy with preschool and dance and soccer and being a little mother to her 100 baby dolls. She, unlike me, loves loves loves to wear anything dressy - I have to bribe her to get her to wear jeans. How did this happen? have you all ever seen me wearing a dress? seriously now, when it gets really hot here in the summer you might (and I say might) see me in a skirt, but this momma is a t-shirt and jeans person, and my little Hannah cannot understand it. I pray this is just a stage she will grow out of!:) Alle is two now, and looks like she is four. Our little spicy Ethiopian - she is definitely two and keeps us on our toes. She loves Elmo, and dances like crazy any chance she gets. She loves to eat, and the only food we have found that she does not like is oatmeal. Go figure. Lima beans, brussel sprouts, quinoa, any fruit or vegetable she will gobble down, but no oatmeal.<br />
Enjoy the pictures - Eric got me a new camera for Christmas in the hope that I would take more pics of the kids. unfortunately, I usually forget to take the camera with me when I am leaving the house with the four kids, so most of the pictures are from daddy:) Luckily- I forget the camera and not one of the kids!:) Happy May! (and let's be honest - I'll probably blog again next year:).<br />
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Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-82474932437449567712012-06-23T15:42:00.001-04:002012-06-23T15:43:10.448-04:00June in Pictures<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Here is a very brief synopsis of our June .... bunches and bunches of school parties, and picnics, and field days, and gifts, and more parties:), a quick trip to Virginia for my sister's wedding, Alle's gotcha day, and school ends!!!!<br />
the pics below are from: <br />
Alle's first anniversary of her Gotcha day - Wednesday June 13th. <br />
Cassia's (my little sis) rehearsal dinner in Richmond, VA - Friday June 15th<br />
Cassia and Reggie's wedding - Saturday June 16th<br />
Jadon's second grade picnic - Monday June 18th<br />
Cherry picking with the family - Saturday June 23rd<br />
Enjoy!!!!<br />
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HAPPY SUMMER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br />
<br /></div>Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-89315760224214524162012-06-13T17:27:00.001-04:002012-06-13T17:28:17.794-04:00Gotcha Day 2012<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Happy Gotcha Day, Alemnesh!!!<br />
I cannot believe that it has been a year already, it seems like just yesterday we were flying home from Ethiopia with a scared, quiet little baby. I am so thankful for all the other families that traveled with us - they made coming home bearable:)<br />
A year later she is loud, full of spunk, and still the cuddliest, funniest little one year old ever! It has been a year full of laughing, crying, and many new discoveries about our precious daughter and ourselves. I would not change it for the world.<br />
Alle, momma loves you to the moon and back. I am so blessed that God gave you to me - you bring spunk and laughter to everything we do!<br />
We love you Alle! <br />
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This was the first picture that we saw of Alle<br />
February 2011<br />
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This was the original Gotcha day<br />
June 13, 2011<br />
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Today - one year home!!!<br />
June 13, 2012<br />
What a difference a year makes!<br />
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<br /></div>Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-39115327619843989392012-05-13T19:40:00.001-04:002012-05-13T19:52:23.027-04:00Mother's Day 2012<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Today we drove to Kent, CT. What a beautiful drive in the New England countryside, with blue skies, green trees and grass, and 4 kiddos all quietly watching chip and dale rescue rangers in the back of the van:)!<br />
The falls were beautiful, and the boys loved getting to play in the river at the top. Hannah was a little tired, and not too sure of the rushing water and slippery rocks, and Alle just hung out in the backpack!<br />
We ended a perfect Mother's Day with fried mushroom, jalapeno poppers, and pizza (my hubby knows me too well)!<br />
Happy Mother's Day to all the wonderful mothers in my life - I am blessed to be on this journey with you!!!!<br />
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PS - I was playing around with Alle and the camera the other day, and took these shots of our cutie - she is growing like a weed and is so entirely rotten!!! Love that girl!<br />
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<br /></div>Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-72972519521460578502012-04-09T21:33:00.002-04:002012-04-09T21:33:57.714-04:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Happy Belated Easter! As usual, it has been too long since I have updated our blog. We spent spring break in Virginia and North Carolina, getting loved on by family and riding roller coasters! I forgot the camera (typical), so the only pics that we took were on Sunday when Eric flew in with the camera! Enjoy!<br />
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Alle loves wearing daddy's hat<br />
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coloring Easter eggs<br />
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Alle's first peep - love the expression!<br />
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Hannah really gets into her peeps:)</div>Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-12727474835973391872012-02-23T19:56:00.002-05:002012-02-23T19:56:40.145-05:00wow- it has been awhile!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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so sorry that it has taken me so long to post - time just flies by here! Let's see - where to begin. Thank you all for all your prayers, encouragement and support during the past two months. (did I just type that? It seems surreal that it was two months ago yesterday that Hannah was in the emergency room getting diagnosed). We are halfway done at this point - she has had two surgeries (one minor, one major) and has two more to go (one minor, one major). I'll try to explain what she has and what they are doing to fix it, so if you are interested, read on, otherwise - skip to the bottom because there are some incredibly cute pictures down there!<br />
Hannah has congenital bilateral hydronephrosis with grade 5 vesicoureteral reflux and a left-sided obstruction at the ureteropelvic junction. Basic anatomy lesson - two kidneys, one on each side, ureters connects to the kidneys (at the bottom) at the upj (ureteropelvic junction) and the bladder (at the top). Hannah had a congenital disorder causing an obstruction at the upj on the left sided, making it difficult for urine to pass from the kidney to the bladder, causing intense pain from the swelling/pressure, and the pain caused her to vomit. In addition to the obstruction she has reflux from her bladder up to her kidneys, causing even more pressure and swelling. Her first surgery in january was to place a stent to bypass the obstruction, allowing the kidney to drain and the pain/vomiting to go away. Unfortunately - a very common side effect of a stent is the cramping/bladder spasms that mimic a uti. Fun times here, fun times. The vomiting went away, but getting her to pee was horrific. Her surgery in february was a robot-assisted pyleoplasty - five incisions on her stomach, allowing the robot to go in and remove the obstruction and reattach the ureter to the kidney. The pain in her side and the vomiting associated with it was removed completely with this surgery, although the stent stayed in to ensure that a build up of pressure did not return to the kidney before it was healed. Her third surgery (sometime in march) will be to remove the stent (before it migrates and causes vomiting and pain). They usually leave the stents in for 3-4 weeks after the pyleoplasty - her will have been in for 7 weeks. Her fourth, and hopefully final, surgery will be in april, where her surgeons will fix the reflux by changing the way the ureter
connects to the bladder by creating a new tunnel into the bladder. The
doctor “reimplants” the ureter to fix its connection to the bladder. Instead of 5 one-inch incisions on her abdomen, she will have a 6 inch incision below her bikini line. Fun times I tell you, fun times.<br />
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Right now, Hannah is doing incredible!!! She has had no pain since her second surgery, is eating again (yeah!) and being crazy with her brothers and sister. We are simply praying that the next two surgeries will go as smoothly as the first two did, and that she will have little to no permanent kidney damage.<br />
Okay - on to the rest of our crazy life. The boys are doing so well - school is great, and they are ready for soccer to start in just a few weeks! Noah prays for snow every night - we have had only a few inches since the 16 inches in October:). Alle is getting so big! She is over 16 months now, and as rotten as ever! She is still slow with her talking, but can sign everything that she needs to communicate. I have been experimenting with her hair, and did finger twists for the first time yesterday. She is so stinking cute!!! Life with 4 kiddos is never dull!!!!<br />
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<span id="goog_1354991899"></span><span id="goog_1354991900"></span></div>Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-74749559744416683592012-01-09T20:32:00.000-05:002012-01-09T20:32:22.649-05:00"Christmas Picture" - finally!!!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hiu3SAh-9sw/TwuUo-Vx_hI/AAAAAAAABXE/dnbZahfs7To/s1600/dt_DSC_8371.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hiu3SAh-9sw/TwuUo-Vx_hI/AAAAAAAABXE/dnbZahfs7To/s320/dt_DSC_8371.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9MfDVbyOpB4/TwuUrGserdI/AAAAAAAABXs/cexnuwsZSMI/s1600/dt_DSC_8408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9MfDVbyOpB4/TwuUrGserdI/AAAAAAAABXs/cexnuwsZSMI/s320/dt_DSC_8408.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kitwum63uj4/TwuUrtqddhI/AAAAAAAABX0/rSEKekdbq5A/s1600/dt_DSC_8413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kitwum63uj4/TwuUrtqddhI/AAAAAAAABX0/rSEKekdbq5A/s320/dt_DSC_8413.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Well, maybe we will call it a New Year's picture, or by the time we actually get them printed out and mailed - a Valentine's picture! But, we did actually get around to taking pictures of all our monkeys - and oh my, they could not be any cuter! Here are a few of them - hopefully you will be seeing one in your mailbox soon!!!</div>Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-22240432846538422912011-12-31T19:43:00.000-05:002011-12-31T19:43:10.479-05:00Our Crazy Life!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Oh my, December has definitely not been boring in our house! Let's start with the good stuff - Alle is continuing to thrive and our little chunk:) is growing more every day! She is starting to babble a lot more, and is getting so much more comfortable not having me in the same room as she is every minute! (most minutes she still prefers to be held, but there are times when she is happily playing with her toys in a different room!). The boys have had a great vacation from school for the last week - we spent the week in Richmond with my family, celebrating birthdays and Christmas and just loving being together! And Hannah - where to start? Our precious little one has definitely had more than her share in her 4 short years of life with her juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. We are so thankful that she continues to be in remission and we pray that it stays that way! BUT, for the last 6+ months she has been complaining that her "side" hurt. First we thought that she was anxious about Alle coming home, then maybe her arthritis had spread into her hip, then maybe she had a stomach virus, then maybe she was constipated, then perhaps it was a convenient excuse to not eat her supper. It was never bad enough that she was screaming in agony, just an on and off "my side is hurting - can I lay on the couch?" I mentioned it to the doctor multiple times and she thought the same thing that I did - gas pains, etc. Then, about 2 months ago, she started throwing up. Once a week, in the morning, after moaning and groaning all night. and then she was fine. so again - the stomach bug? I was a clorox wipe fiend. But, no one else ever got it. Ever. But every week - she threw up once in the morning and then nothing. After 7 weeks of this, my momma/nurse radar was going off. She did not have a fever, no other symptoms, but something was not right. So I called the doctor, again, last Thursday. What should I do? I think that there is something wrong but when I verbalize what is going on, I know that I sound completely crazy. They did not know what to do, but just in case they suggested that I take her to the ER, because they had nothing. So, off we went to the er, last thursday. Now, I am a nurse, and if some neurotic mother told me what I told that ER nurse, I probably would have struggled to keep a straight face, and then as soon as I was out of the room I would have burst into laughter and told all my coworkers about the whack job that was in room 11. Anyways, the nurse pretty much told me that she thought Hannah was "anxious about her schedule" and was "throwing up because of anxiety". Okay. and then the doctor decided that "she has esophageal reflux". Really? because the pain is in her side! and so I harped, and bugged, and they finally ordered an abdominal ultrasound and then were going to discharge us. But, the ultrasound, and the following CT scan, showed severe left hydronephrosis. Basically, they believe that she has a congenital condition were her ureter (the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder) is overlapped at the top with another vessel (usually all the vessels just hand out side by side:). As she grew, the other vessel has caused an obstruction, which in turn is not allowing urine to flow through the ureter to the bladder. In short, her kidney is huge, and dying. If left alone, she would lose all kidney function in her left kidney. Her right kidney has been compensating superbly, and so far, while she has permanent kidney damage, she will most likely return to adequate function once the problem is taken care of. So, after a few more tests (not so much fun with IV's and catheters), her pediatric nephrologist will go in with a robot and cut out the obstructed area, and reattach the ureter to the kidney. they will place a stent (a temporary tube for the urine to flow through until the ureter is healed). She will be in surgery for several hours, and then in the hospital for about 3 days after. Fun times, I tell you, fun times. This is something that is usually caught at birth, and if it does not resolve spontaneously (which in many cases it does - Noah had it in-utero and it resolve three months after birth), the child has surgery before the age of three to prevent permanent kidney damage. Unfortunately, we had no idea, and are just catching it now. Thankfully, our ped. nephrologist is one of the best in the country, and hopefully this will all be behind us in a couple of weeks. Never boring in our house!<br />
Okay - are you still there?:) Sorry for the long post - I have had so many wonderful friends and family ask about exactly what was happening, and thought that it would be best to try to explain it here! We are anticipating surgery in the next few weeks, and we covet your prayers and support as we support our precious Hannah.<br />
Okay - I leave you with some pics of my girls that I snapped at the beginning of the month. Hopefully I will be able to take some of all my monkeys on monday - they are growing so fast, I just want to freeze time!<br />
Have a blessed New Year!!!<br />
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</div>Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-25977786999723070952011-11-16T06:44:00.000-05:002011-11-16T06:44:17.224-05:00Happy Birthday Hannah!!!!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wgP4qqMQB84/TsOgy3oc3tI/AAAAAAAABT4/Q3HwpDZ7kK0/s1600/DSC02082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wgP4qqMQB84/TsOgy3oc3tI/AAAAAAAABT4/Q3HwpDZ7kK0/s320/DSC02082.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Our precious Hannah turns 4 today!!! I cannot believe how fast the past 4 years have gone. Hannah - you are such a blessing in our lives!! You are mommy's girl, always ready for a cuddle, to read a princess book, to dress up like Cinderella, to play light sabers with her boys...... We pray that your 4th year is full of love and joy! We love you Hannah!!!! <br />
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</div>Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-38134264920241610322011-10-13T06:38:00.000-04:002011-10-13T06:38:04.059-04:00Our Alle turns ONE!!!!!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v0Wnz6w6r90/TpZCt50UhrI/AAAAAAAABRA/8B9K-atM5VM/s1600/DSC_8147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v0Wnz6w6r90/TpZCt50UhrI/AAAAAAAABRA/8B9K-atM5VM/s320/DSC_8147.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Happy 1st Birthday, precious girl!!!!! I cannot believe that today you turn one, and that you have been in our arms for four months. I have very mixed emotions flowing through me today, many of which I did not expect. I feel grief over the 4 months that I did not know you, over the eight months that you spent out of our arms. I am mourning for your birth mother today, thanking her from the bottom of my heart for the precious gift that she gave us. I am excited to watch you grow this coming year, to see the world through your huge, beautiful eyes. I am so blessed to call you my daughter. Your laughter and smiles light up our family, and I am constantly amazed at the complete way you have attached to me, unconditionally. I love your kisses (although we are working on the closed-mouth kiss), and your cuddles in the morning. I love the way you kick your feet when you see "your kids", and the joy in your smile when they kiss your forehead. Part of me cannot wait to see you grow, while another part wants to stop time and enjoy this stage. Happy Birthday, Alle!!!<br />
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</div>Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-35686870052286637432011-09-30T14:39:00.000-04:002011-09-30T14:39:48.573-04:00Little Ticking Time Bombs<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Let me start by saying - if reading about vomit makes you feel like you are getting sick - don't read this.<br />
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I HATE THE STOMACH BUG!!! (love the caps,right?). 15 days ago, Alle (our little one from ethiopia) started throwing up. Did I mention that I hate the stomach bug? and I desperately hate it in babies. Of course, all they want you do is hold them, and then they really really really want you to hold them right as they are vomiting, all over you. fun times. this lasted for 7 days. oh my word. laundry, and washing, and changing, and vomit. Not only do I hate the stomach bug, but I hate wondering when they are going to throw up next, where they are going to throw up next, and who is going to throw up next. they are like little ticking time bombs. so, after 7 days of throwing up, and being lethargic, and no one else getting sick, I took her to the doctor. "she's fine". lovely - thanks for that. (BTW - I am a nurse - which makes me the most least empathic mom ever!). Anyways, she went two days without throwing up (friday and saturday) and then threw up on sunday. Are you kidding me?! then - nothing m, t, and w. Praise the Lord!!! Now - I had only cloroxed, lysoled, scrubbed the house three times a day for over a week, and now I am sure that the rest of my family has no natural defenses left because I killed them with chemicals:). Oh, life was good for three days. then Hannah started throwing up on thursday in the wee hours of the morning, and then alle joined her at 11. really? What is more fun than one child throwing up? two!!! AHHHHHH!!!! cloroxed and lysoled again. and again. and then again. So, if you ever come to my house - please excuse the chemical smell:) the boys are still okay (as far as I know), and eric and I are fine. What in the world. seriously. I HATE THE STOMACH BUG!~ oh, and did I mention that my children never get the 24 hour bug? nope, we are special. we always get the days into weeks bug. love it!!!!<br />
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Did I also mention that I am going batty (honestly) because I have been living, breathing,cleaning, and dreaming about vomit for fifteen days? fifteen days. On the bright side, my house has never been so clean. on the not so bright side - my kids may never again eat white-colored food, because that is all I have let them eat for fifteen days. and I am completely sure that they are tired of hearing me say "you cannot eat that because if you do, and you throw up, I am not cleaning up red vomit". Oh yes, I know that you wish that you lived at our house. At least for the last fifteen days.</div>Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-89525224817362170412011-09-23T07:04:00.000-04:002011-09-23T07:04:07.576-04:00Happy Birthday Jadon!!!!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">happy birthday to our Jadon!!! He turned 7 today, and we are so incredibly blessed to have him in our family. He is the sweetest, kindest, most mommy-loving boy ever!! Hope that you have a great day Jadon!!!! We love you!!!<br />
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</div>Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-12372943985592756062011-09-01T16:41:00.000-04:002011-09-01T16:41:07.146-04:00our first portrait session!!!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FuY9R6d9x2g/Tl_s-j9jmlI/AAAAAAAABQM/s2yWTA2WhR8/s1600/0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">While we are down in Virginia - I like to try to get the kids' pictures taken (mostly because I can take my mom with me for help!:). I cannot believe that I am writing this - but all 4 monkeys were absolutely perfect!!! Perfect smiles, perfect behavior - I nearly fell over!! Here are the results - ENJOY!!!<img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FuY9R6d9x2g/Tl_s-j9jmlI/AAAAAAAABQM/s2yWTA2WhR8/s320/0004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jBkWlr5ycEk/Tl_qg7_Z3MI/AAAAAAAABPw/L6dYy26PU-g/s1600/0023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jBkWlr5ycEk/Tl_qg7_Z3MI/AAAAAAAABPw/L6dYy26PU-g/s320/0023.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QFJjSUM58t0/Tl_qhSc23II/AAAAAAAABP0/EbEpgueTS4U/s1600/0028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QFJjSUM58t0/Tl_qhSc23II/AAAAAAAABP0/EbEpgueTS4U/s320/0028.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><span id="goog_1145645921"></span><span id="goog_1145645922"></span></div>Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-91724659145018937622011-08-19T20:47:00.001-04:002011-08-19T20:48:35.517-04:00absolute cuteness<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">So, August is just flying by - and between swimming lessons, playdates, days at the lake, and school shopping - we are keeping incredibly busy! But, in all the craziness that is our life, I do remember to get the camera out every so often to catch some of the joy that is in our home. It is amazing how much the monkeys love Alle - what a blessing she is! Enjoy....<br />
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</div>Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-15593893032089148622011-08-13T20:27:00.000-04:002011-08-13T20:27:04.782-04:0010 months old and 2 months in our arms!!!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zu43MLF9fD4/TkcWC2GkMlI/AAAAAAAABOk/Yb2-8J9vH64/s1600/DSC_7953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zu43MLF9fD4/TkcWC2GkMlI/AAAAAAAABOk/Yb2-8J9vH64/s320/DSC_7953.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Alemnesh Grace Harley turned 10 months old today, and she has been in our arms for exactly two months! We cannot believe how quickly the summer has flown by - it seems like just yesterday we were on a plane bringing her home, and at the same moment it seems like she has been with us forever. Let's see - what has our little one been up to? She can stand (without holding on to anything) for about 10 seconds. She loves to walk holding onto everything - a finger, the couch, her push toy from grandma and grandpa (thank you!). When she is not practicing her walking, she is crawling everywhere! She is sleeping 12 hours at night, and still taking 2 2-hour naps a day. She drinks 4 bottles a day (had to cut back on the amount- she over 20 pounds!!!), and eats baby food and whatever we are eating. She loves music, and laughs hysterically when anyone else is laughing. She still loves mommy, but the last few days daddy is definitely gaining ground:). Oh, and you should see her smile when she sees "her kids". her face just lights up! She still has not said mama yet:(, but does dada, baba a lot. She can wave goodbye, and if the mood strikes - she will blow kisses. She loves her blankie (thank you Aunt Lizzie!), and her stuffed bear. Noah, Jadon, and Hannah love her to pieces - they are constantly coming up with new ways to make her laugh, and I have had to start a chart to remember whose day it is to sit by her in the car:)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wSsKd598leA/TkcWDsiAnbI/AAAAAAAABOo/QSDad63XHcg/s1600/DSC_7954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wSsKd598leA/TkcWDsiAnbI/AAAAAAAABOo/QSDad63XHcg/s320/DSC_7954.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tpl1nmiTDpU/TkcWEQrwG0I/AAAAAAAABOs/Ff60Yw1lFlQ/s1600/DSC_7987.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tpl1nmiTDpU/TkcWEQrwG0I/AAAAAAAABOs/Ff60Yw1lFlQ/s320/DSC_7987.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Precious Alle - you bring us such joy! we are so blessed to have you in our lives. Yes, we still have "our days", but they are getting farther apart:). We thank God for you every day, and we cannot wait to watch you grow up - your personality is going to keep us on our toes!!!<br />
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</div>Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-18617279237195239582011-07-18T07:59:00.000-04:002011-07-18T07:59:20.566-04:00fun with friends<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4DFLCkVg8xc/TiQfOCf8siI/AAAAAAAABOE/u5Rn9-nrPsQ/s1600/DSC_7821.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Last night we went over to Gini and Jason's house, along with Keith and Emily, for a summer barbeque! love it when we can get our 3 families together - Gini and Emily and I see each other all week:), but the guys rarely get together because of schedules, work, etc. We always have a marvelous time - last night Gini had gotten water balloons and we all had a water fight:). Love you guys!!!! Oh, and did I mention that Alle loves her buddies? Gini's little girl Beza just turned one, Emily's little boy Tage turns one tomorrow!, and Alle is 9 months old! Wish that I had pics of the three of them - they are a hoot!<img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4DFLCkVg8xc/TiQfOCf8siI/AAAAAAAABOE/u5Rn9-nrPsQ/s320/DSC_7821.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gOLw-r6p_r8/TiQfclgZ9JI/AAAAAAAABOc/C9wGqMEMY14/s1600/DSC01984.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gOLw-r6p_r8/TiQfclgZ9JI/AAAAAAAABOc/C9wGqMEMY14/s320/DSC01984.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a_SeY2fBd6g/TiQfduWHHCI/AAAAAAAABOg/0mYACaNyJLw/s1600/DSC01990.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a_SeY2fBd6g/TiQfduWHHCI/AAAAAAAABOg/0mYACaNyJLw/s320/DSC01990.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-87365392222103797242011-07-10T21:37:00.001-04:002011-07-10T21:49:11.432-04:00the first two weeks of July in pictures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Okay - here is a quick Alle update for all you dying for one:) Alle is doing so incredibly well! She is the perfect baby, very attached to mommy, loves giggling at her brothers and sister, sleeps 12 hours a night with 2 naps during the day (don't hate me:), loves food (not the bottle so much, but we are working on that). She is so very active, and now that she is more secure in our house and with us - she never stops moving! She can army crawl with the best - and just started pulling up on everything in sight. She actually lets me put her down for about 10 minutes at a time - usually only if I am right next to her, but this is a huge improvement from two weeks ago! We have been home 3 weeks and one day, but it seems like she has been a part of our family forever. I must say - my three older monkeys constantly amaze me with the love that they have for their new sister. Even with all the time that she spends with me, and how much I know that are craving mommy time, they just adore her! Thousands of kisses a day, always fighting over who gets to hold her, always bringing her a toy or making a silly face because they want to see her smile. and they think that everything she does is earth shattering - especially as she starts to become more comfortable with them. For instance - we were in the car last week going to the doctor's office (literally a 4 minute drive). Alle did not cry going into her car seat and she laughed and played with them the whole way there (again, a 4 minute drive, but we take what we can around here!). When we got there, you would have thought that they had just seen a star wars creature - they were jumping up and down, clapping and yelling "she did not cry" "I think that she likes us". Oh, my heart is full. Also, for those of you wondering, I am feeling much better this week then last - post adoption blues are no fun, but with some good friends as sounding boards, and a lot of love and support from family and friends, I am almost feeling like myself most days! okay, on to the rest of the post:)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hM5v-cfzrAI/ThpTCm6aZoI/AAAAAAAABNA/t7sQVQyjPSc/s1600/DSC01964.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Wow - I have to say it - blogging has definitely gotten harder with 4 kiddos in the house! it only ever gets done at night, and to be honest, most nights I choose sleep over blogging:). So here are a bunch of random pictures from the beginning of July: We started the month by driving down to Richmond to celebrate my nephew Oliver's 2nd birthday at my parents' house. We loved spending time with Matthew, Gina and Oliver, especially at King's Dominion! Then we drove back to NY, and this weekend celebrated our 11th wedding anniversary with a walk over the Hudson River. Today rounded out the weekend with pics before church, and a good water fight afterwards!!! Enjoy!</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hM5v-cfzrAI/ThpTCm6aZoI/AAAAAAAABNA/t7sQVQyjPSc/s320/DSC01964.JPG" width="320" /></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SDVSzz5l7u0/ThpTHV-PhUI/AAAAAAAABN0/eWtmLbIAuC0/s1600/DSC_7811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SDVSzz5l7u0/ThpTHV-PhUI/AAAAAAAABN0/eWtmLbIAuC0/s320/DSC_7811.JPG" width="212" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OfSQHNDFyqU/ThpTIERrhjI/AAAAAAAABN8/6T9_M3pMO9Y/s1600/DSC_7813.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OfSQHNDFyqU/ThpTIERrhjI/AAAAAAAABN8/6T9_M3pMO9Y/s320/DSC_7813.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-89351608248724037982011-06-26T07:55:00.000-04:002011-06-26T07:55:22.642-04:00a few pics:)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Yes, I need to blog about what has been happening here:), but right now all I have time for is some pictures of absolute cuteness!!! Enjoy (and I will try to write about our gotcha day and trip 2 - when all the craziness settles down!!!)<br />
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</div>Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9134929628382215210.post-14065101386936987792011-05-20T14:37:00.000-04:002011-05-20T14:37:27.626-04:00Home for a bit<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ULyYWhdGCm0/TdazthgQ33I/AAAAAAAABKI/UjhOxL1IL2I/s1600/DSC00916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Oh, what a week it has been!!! at some point, I will write about each day, but for now I will just recap:). We flew out of Laguardia to Dulles, and then to Addis last Friday morning, arrived in Addis about 8am (addis time, 1am ny time). We met our Alle that afternoon, around 2pm, and fell even more in love. She is so perfect, so precious. We spent the week with her, loving on her, and then on Tuesday, in front of a judge, we heard these precious words - "She is yours"! I am now the proud momma of 4!!!!!! Saying goodbye on wednesday was the hardest thing we have ever had to do. We are now praying for an incredibly quick embassy date - so that we can bring her home!!! She has 4 incredible special mothers (2 day, 2 night) that love on her constantly - we know that she is safe and loved. We still cannot post any pictures of her face or her name, but here are a few teasers for you!!!! Mommy and Daddy love you sweet girl - we cannot wait to bring you home</a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ULyYWhdGCm0/TdazthgQ33I/AAAAAAAABKI/UjhOxL1IL2I/s1600/DSC00916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ULyYWhdGCm0/TdazthgQ33I/AAAAAAAABKI/UjhOxL1IL2I/s320/DSC00916.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> at our hotel waiting for the shuttle to take us to Laguardia<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0BZc5rvcvco/TdazuL_QX9I/AAAAAAAABKM/e_OuUPlOan4/s1600/DSC00918.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0BZc5rvcvco/TdazuL_QX9I/AAAAAAAABKM/e_OuUPlOan4/s320/DSC00918.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T9esLgb5IVY/Tdazuf3OfFI/AAAAAAAABKQ/-ZlC1a1q60M/s1600/DSC00919.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T9esLgb5IVY/Tdazuf3OfFI/AAAAAAAABKQ/-ZlC1a1q60M/s320/DSC00919.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> on our plane to Addis!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jZYQbH86eeM/TdazusuQk-I/AAAAAAAABKU/D1s3aSmWL44/s1600/DSC00927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jZYQbH86eeM/TdazusuQk-I/AAAAAAAABKU/D1s3aSmWL44/s320/DSC00927.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> in the bus going to Hannah's Hope to meet our daughter<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FkEaaWlDM_8/Tdazu3XtNbI/AAAAAAAABKY/Y_iFNa_8hx8/s1600/DSC00923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FkEaaWlDM_8/Tdazu3XtNbI/AAAAAAAABKY/Y_iFNa_8hx8/s320/DSC00923.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> our plane<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g8xMxhZ731g/TdazvDVAOsI/AAAAAAAABKc/Uyp-A56BeT8/s1600/DSC00942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g8xMxhZ731g/TdazvDVAOsI/AAAAAAAABKc/Uyp-A56BeT8/s320/DSC00942.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> street view of Addis<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1LBLCzuVuy4/TdazvbcMAPI/AAAAAAAABKg/X61NZlWF1gg/s1600/DSC00951.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1LBLCzuVuy4/TdazvbcMAPI/AAAAAAAABKg/X61NZlWF1gg/s320/DSC00951.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> in the lobby of the Riviera<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nRDyU4PdneI/TdazvmXYqMI/AAAAAAAABKk/Vkm4ROo_-bo/s1600/DSC00956.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nRDyU4PdneI/TdazvmXYqMI/AAAAAAAABKk/Vkm4ROo_-bo/s320/DSC00956.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> me and Chantel:) Loved meeting 10!! other families from our agency<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C4wGfRZ1fGQ/TdazwQ3UpeI/AAAAAAAABKs/c3ECnBlV8UA/s1600/DSC01030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C4wGfRZ1fGQ/TdazwQ3UpeI/AAAAAAAABKs/c3ECnBlV8UA/s320/DSC01030.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> holding my sleeping daughter<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YPx5DO_m0OY/TdazxXVygxI/AAAAAAAABK4/OO-4l6_NBcs/s1600/DSC01098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YPx5DO_m0OY/TdazxXVygxI/AAAAAAAABK4/OO-4l6_NBcs/s320/DSC01098.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r2n4V_BaVF0/Tdazxt79AkI/AAAAAAAABK8/eJve3Cx85GQ/s1600/DSC01122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r2n4V_BaVF0/Tdazxt79AkI/AAAAAAAABK8/eJve3Cx85GQ/s320/DSC01122.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> our room at the hotel<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PLyZVbhvYss/TdazySf4eLI/AAAAAAAABLA/F_NvQ4j60hE/s1600/DSC01135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PLyZVbhvYss/TdazySf4eLI/AAAAAAAABLA/F_NvQ4j60hE/s320/DSC01135.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> She loved the teething necklace and bracelets that I bought<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SFAqCCfBH-w/TdazyvQDZiI/AAAAAAAABLE/klZhF8rIsCo/s1600/DSC01278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SFAqCCfBH-w/TdazyvQDZiI/AAAAAAAABLE/klZhF8rIsCo/s320/DSC01278.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> her crib at Hannah's Hope<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F53R2ZpZ-58/Tdazy16nbkI/AAAAAAAABLI/8WRs-qtJKXw/s1600/DSC01494.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F53R2ZpZ-58/Tdazy16nbkI/AAAAAAAABLI/8WRs-qtJKXw/s320/DSC01494.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Daddy holding his sleeping princess<br />
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</div>Becca Harleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13231974649745160750noreply@blogger.com8