Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

Today was a tragic day for the Morris boys, and nearly as devastating for their Mommy.

Immunizations. That is the politically correct term for SHOTS, NEEDLES, and PAIN!!!

Owen had his 12-month shots and Corwin had his "Kindergarten" shots. The age window for kindergarten shots is 4-6 years. I thought it'd be a good idea to get the two boys' shots taken care of at the same time. I'm not convinced that was the best plan of action.

I began to prepare Corwin last night for what lie ahead. Attempt to reason #1: If he wanted to go to school, he had to get his shots. His answer: "I don't need to go to school. I've got plenty to learn in my school work book." (This is a workbook we have that introduces colors, numbers, writing, etc.) Attempt #2: You have to get these shots, or you might get really bad sick. His response, "Well, if I get sick, you can just take me to the doctor, and he'll give me some medicine that I can put in my mouth that will make me better." Hmmm.... Okay. Attempt #3: Owen needs you to get some too so he doesn't get scared and back out. Corwin: He'll be okay. He's had them before and done just fine. Corwin is a hard one to argue with. He's too smart.

Finally, I said, "Well, we'll see what the doctor says. If he says you don't need them, then we won't get them." That seemed to satisfy my son and, at the same time, pushed the blame off of me and onto Dr. Russell. Yes, I'm a chicken. Bawk-bawk!

So, Corwin was brave and strong, until the needle was an inch from his leg, then he decided to tell everyone within a 10-mile radius that HE DID NOT WANT A SHOT!!! PLEASE! PLEASE! DON'T GIVE ME ANY SHOTS! The nurse tried to calm him because his legs were so tense and hard as a rock. Finally, he weakened a bit, so she stuck him and told him to say the magic word over and over, as fast as he could. "Bingo." So, he "Bingo, bingo, bingo, bingo-"-ed through five excruciating immunizations. When it was over he and I both were crying. Owen got his two shots with only a whimper.

But, it wasn't over. They then sent us to the lab for a blood draw to check hemoglobin and lead levels. I did not want to go through the drama again. But... doctor's orders. This time, Corwin marched in there, told the phlebotomist he was going to be tough, and began to impress her with his gallantry. He cried right before they stuck him with the needle, then watched as the vile filled with his thick, red blood. The phlebotomist was amazed at his courage! She said he was the youngest patient she'd had that sat by himself and endured the torture. Most want to sit in Mommy's lap and proceed to scream the whole time. Owen, again, endured like a pro. He made a face when they removed the needle, but that was all.

So, now I am exhausted--emotionally and physically. It took all morning to get those pesky sticks done. But, I'm so glad it's done and over with for a few years. Maybe next time Corwin will be big enough to really be tough. But, then it'll be Owen's turn to be four and terrified. Ugh. The price of parenting.

Football Practice

Corwin was out playing football this morning, and decided to use Owen for practice. Owen enjoyed it...for a while. Then, I came in and had some fun editing a couple pictures. Enjoy!

Trick or Treat! Smell My Feet!

GIVE ME SOMETHIN' GOOD TO EAT!!!

Miscellaneous Happenings

I have several things to update you all on. We have been sick for the past 5 days (Corwin, Owen, then me), and I'm just now getting to it. So, here goes:

Owen turned one on October 20th. We just had a simple celebration at home, just the four of us. We'd celebrated earlier with my family, and had plans to go to Arkansas and celebrate with Jason's family. So, we didn't want to make a fuss, but didn't want it to go ignored, either.

Corwin got his first Caravan patch at church the other day. He was quite proud to hold the Bible for the entire congregation to pledge to.

Then the boys carved a jack-o-lantern with Dad. Corwin refused to touch the yucky stuff inside!

But, Owen didn't care!

Here's the nearly finished product. Why Dad chose the ugliest side of the pumpkin to carve, I'll never know. Looks like our "Jack" has some kind of skin disease, or something.

Owen did his share of carving, as well.

My Cup Runneth Over

Jason's sister gave birth to my second nephew on Wednesday, October 21--the day after Owen's first birthday. I cannot explain how full I feel! I remember the feeling I felt when each of my nieces and nephews were born, and it is indescribable. The feeling doesn't dull with each birth, either. My only complaint is that I've not been able to be there when it has happened. EVER!!! So, I've been feeling sorry for myself because I've not been able to hold Jack David, or hear him cry, or feel his hand curl around my finger. I'll admit, I've even shed some tears over my sad situation. (I've done this all four times, now.) But, I am hopeful that we will see him very soon.

Just a note to Kerrie and Jeremy:

I am so proud of you guys! I've prayed that God will bless your home, and He has faithfully answered. I've seen you two as high school sweethearts, a young married couple, faithful ministers, and now parents. I'm amazed at where you've been, and where you are now. God is going to use your family in a mighty way! I love you guys, and am praying for you. And, I really love this baby boy that I've not even met yet!