my wonderful life: ethan lee

WE ARE ALIVE!!!!

2012-01-11T08:18:00.000-08:00

Greg and I!!

Ethan, Greg, Buster, Buck and I!!!

I know it has been way to long since I blogged, but I have been super busy!!! Living in the country and working/momma full-time was really hard. But, NOW I am only the SAHM!!! So happy!! Don't get me wrong I loved teaching and being able to be with Ethan 24/7 at school, but have come to the realization that Ethan needs his time and I need my time. We transfered him to W.R. Hatfield in Justin. It is a great school and they are excited to have him. Vista was a great school, has great curriculm but it wasn't the right fit for Ethan. I will always be grateful for the opportunity to work there. I learned a lot about myself and Ethan. It was a confidence boost for myself to know that I am still a great teacher after not teaching for 6 years. Ethan learned to have great confidence in himself. Ethan is doing great things. I have soooo much to share. I will be back soon!!!

1st Day of Kindergarten....Ethan did Great!!!

2011-08-22T20:09:00.000-07:00

He is such a BIG BOY!!!

Love the unifoms!!! NO hassle in the morning, I love it!!!

Ethan had a GREAT day at school today!! Greg and I are soooo proud of him!!! He has a wonderful teacher and great staff to work with!!! I had a great day also!!! Ethan was so tired that he feel asleep on the way home!!!! We are going to have a great year!!!

Demi Lovato - Skyscraper

2011-08-09T07:47:00.000-07:00

Friends....

2011-08-09T07:21:00.000-07:00

Ethan and his BFF Buster!

A farmer had some puppies he needed to sell. He painted a sign
advertising the 4 pups. And set about nailing it to a post on the
edge of his yard. As he was driving the last nail into the post, he
felt a tug on his overalls. He looked down into the eyes of a
little boy.
"Mister," he said, "I want to buy "one of your puppies."
"Well," said the farmer, as he rubbed the sweat off the back of his
neck, "These puppies come from fine parents and cost a good deal of
money."
The boy dropped his head for a moment. Then reaching deep into his
pocket, he pulled out a handful of change and held it up to the
farmer. "I've got thirty-nine cents. Is that enough to take a
look?"
"Sure," said the farmer. And with that he let out a whistle. "Here,
Dolly!" he called. Out from the doghouse and down the ramp ran
Dolly followed by four little balls of fur.
The little boy pressed his face against the chain link fence. His
eyes danced with delight. As the dogs made their way to the fence,
the little boy noticed something else stirring inside the doghouse.
Slowly another little ball appeared, this one noticeably smaller.
Down the ramp it slid. Then in a some what awkward manner, the
little pup began hobbling toward the others, doing its best to
catch up....
"I want that one," the little boy said, pointing to the runt. The
farmer knelt down at the boy's side and said, "Son, you don't want
that puppy. He will never be able to run and play with you like
these other dogs would."
With that the little boy stepped back from the fence, reached down,
and began rolling up one leg of his trousers. In doing so he
revealed a steel brace running down both sides of his leg attaching
itself to a specially made shoe.
Looking back up at the farmer, he said, "You see sir, I don't run
too well myself, and he will need someone who understands."
With tears in his eyes, the farmer reached down and picked up the
little pup…
Holding it carefully he handed it to the little boy.
"How much?" asked the little boy. "No charge," answered the farmer,
"There's no charge for love."

Unknown author

Uncle Stewart got Married...Today to Shalamar Jones!!!

2011-07-28T21:07:00.001-07:00

So, today was a great day for the Williams Family!! My older brother got married today! He is the kindest, sweetest and bravest man I know...and he found a woman who loves him for him!!! They are such sweet couple!!! It was very small..but sooo very sweet!! We wish them the best!!!

Katy Perry - Firework Lyrics HD

2011-07-08T12:58:00.000-07:00

Happy July 4th!!!

2011-07-05T13:36:00.000-07:00

We had a Great 4th of Juky weekend!! Ethan had a blast!!! WE had a great time with our friends!

Everything is going to be just .......Great!!

2011-06-30T14:18:00.000-07:00

My Gregory

Part 3

2011-06-28T12:31:00.001-07:00

Well, with everything that has happened I began to have a fear of driving again so I took a week off from driving and I re-did Ethan's schedule. I guess the reason I became so fearful is because I put Ethan in harms way...had I not stopped I don't know what would have happened. Ethan is EVERYTHING to his Daddy and I. So, I have been taking it slow and not rushing to get anywhere. My "happy pills" have helped. I am glad I went to find help. I am so high-strung and a perfectionist that I get so determined to do everything that I just start running on empty. Both of my parents were super worried about me...they both said I have inherited there personalities. My brothers are not as high-strung like me. Greg has been very supportive to me...he says that it is "all in my head" and that I can do anything I put my mind too. I do want to prove to him I can. I thank GOD for protecting me and
Ethan that day.
We put OT on hold and he finished up with PT at Cook's. He is doing great with his quad-canes. Wednesday, is our only day we have to do anything. Dr. Gray said Ethan's hip looks wonderful! I want Ethan to enjoy his summer and the new house. I do love my new home..it's just adjustment. Takes me a good 30 min. to get to anywhere. I am people person....it will take a little time. Ethan and Greg are soooo happy here. Greg has done a 360 turn around...it takes him 20 min. to get to work.
I will get better and I will learn to take deep breathes, relax and enjoy life.

Part 2

2011-06-28T07:23:00.000-07:00

So, like I was saying I stayed at the hospital for 3 days. They ran MRI's, CT's and TEE...which was horrible. I was a medical mystery...they thought my ulcer colitis had something to do with since I was 2 weeks overdue on my infusion. The Dr's suggested that I have a spinal tap done because I showed signs of MS. So, I have the scheduled for the end of July. Everyone was convinced that I was just over done..literally. I consider myself a strong individual, perfectionist, a little OCD on somethings but I am not superwoman. I am my hardest critic. So, 2 weeks ago after this all happened I went to see my PCP and she suggested that I take some medicine to take the edge off...I really did not want to take anything but I came to the realization that I needed help.

So What has happened to the Rine Family?

2011-06-27T13:46:00.000-07:00

Ethan and Buster at Ryan's house.

Mrs. Jeannie and Ms.Bea on the last day of school!

I really don't know were to begin. The last two months have been crazy to say the least. We sold our home and moved out of Arlington May 29th. The three of us were sad to leave our home but excited for our new adventure. We lived with Ryan(aka very good friend) for 12 days..it was very interesting. Our house and Justin was still in the works which created alot of stress for Greg and I. I also was driving from Justin to Arlington for Ethan's last week of school. I was beginning to wear very thin. I had Ethan's therapies also so I was constantly moving never stopping literally. Ordering Ethan's wheelchair was alittle overwhelming...I was sad because I would be preferring to pick out a bicycle, but I am over that now. Ethan does not want one but I have been talking about it and he is starting to like the idea...a little. I think I traveled close to 700 miles in 5 days and I was done. On, Saturday June 4th something changed for me...a experience that I will never forget and will never let happen again. Ethan and I had gone to a "End of Year Party" on Arlington. I was extremely tired and not feeling myself but I kept on going. My vision was impaired and my left side was beginning to feel numbness. So, i decided the best thing was to get on our way to Justin....well, I didn't make it there. I was driving on HWY 121 and Glade Rd.and I could no longer drive. I was soooo very scared...Ethan was with me and he remained calm...luckily my oldest brother Stewart came to my rescue and called 911...Greg was on his way home to Justin. Everyone said that I had a stroke....when I got to the hospital they ran several tests and they kept me there for 3 days. More info. to come......

Graduation 2011

2011-06-24T05:58:00.000-07:00

Yes , we are still alive but we are in JUSTIN, TEXAS NOW! Just got internet yesterday so I have alot to post. Here is alittle tease for now!!
Ethan graduated from Kooken Education Center on June 3, 2011! I have to brag on Ethan, this is from his ARD meeting: At a Chronological age of 5 1/2. Ethan scored an Age Equivalence of 6 yrs. 7 mos. on his receptive skills and 7yrs. 7 mos. on his expressive vocabulary skills. To think that he started at Kooken at 3yrs old and had the vocabulary of a 18 month old!!! Simply Amazing!!!

Nothing but....Extraordinary!!!

2011-04-28T08:04:00.001-07:00

Fleetie's Birthday present from "All The Grandchildren"!!!

The Apache Angels Foundation

New friends we met: "Hailey" Ethan really liked Hailey!!

With Lisa Stadujhar"the best Hippo Therapist",Ethan loves her!

Traveler...aka our future horse!!!

Miracle League: He loves it!!!! WE are so proud of him!!!

Happy Easter!!!

So, were do I begin. This month of April to say the least has been crazy! Between selling our house in 35 DAYS and trying to buy a house in Justin, Texas before May 29th has added some stress in our little life.
Greg left for his UTAH MAN TRIP on April 9th and we had a offer and contract by 4pm that day! Don't get me wrong we are so happy we sold our house, but between everything else...it came really fast!
Ethan and I have been so busy, between all his therapies and Dr.checkups. Plus, all of his public appearances...aka Apache Angels Foundation(thanks Paw Paw and Fleetie for coming)!
Ethan's surgery is pure success, Dr. G said his hip looks great! He is pure amazement. He started Miracle League and he loves it! His good friends Caleb and Nate are on his team. A couple of his old friends from Kooken are on the team also!!

He is doing great on his quad canes and we are working on single point canes. HE is so grown up...he weighs close to 60 pounds and almost 4ft tall! He is so smart...he got a A+ on his assessment at school in Math!! Ethan keeps Greg and I on our feet! He is such a grown-up kid. I know he grew up to fast, but did not have a choice....with all of his stuff! The surgery back in September 2010 for his hip made him have to grow-up and at times makes me sad/happy because he is soooo strong physically and emotionally. Ethan is such a extraordinary person there is nothing about him that is ordinary! He is so polite and respectful...and pure joy! He is so excited about moving to his "dream house"! We are going to get him for his birthday a "miniture pop-belly pig", named "FRENCH FRY"!
It has been a little stressful around the Rine Household but it is getting better! We are very excited but we will be very sad to leave our family and friends that are super close to us!( I am talking 1.5 to 11 miles away)!

I may not blog for awhile but we are doing great!!!

p.s. April Birthday's: Jimmy April 10th, Fleetie 12th and Uncle Jeff 29th!!! Happy Birthday to ALL!

Just wanted to share....from thecrackandthelight.blogspot.com

2011-04-13T17:22:00.000-07:00

An Open Letter to all Professionals

Hello? New Teacher, or therapist, or doctor?

Is that you?

Oh hello… I just wanted to chat with you a second. To caution you. Or warn you.

Please, tread carefully.

You see, what you might not realize as you look at me, talk to me, tell me your opinions, our options, our lack of options, and your predictions of our outcomes is that; well… you see that heart?

The slightly broken, definitely bruised one?

Yeah, that’s my heart. My slightly-broken, definitely-bruised heart.

Now, I realize that as you look at me you might see…a confident parent… or an angry parent…or a happy-go-lucky parent…

You might think that I understand everything… or nothing…… or that I have all the experience in the world because I have done this before… or that I know the rules… or that I don’t know the rules and that is for the best….

You might believe… that I am high maintenance… or overreacting… or maybe neurotic… or disengaged and uninterested… or that I don’t really care… or maybe I care too much…

But regardless of what you see, what you think, or what you believe, this is what you should know:

I am broken-hearted. And it doesn’t matter if it is the first day or a century later. It doesn’t matter where in the “grief cycle” I might be. It doesn’t matter if the wounds are healed, or healing, or fresh and new. This heart is bruised. Slightly broken. Different than it once was and will ever be again. And when you speak, or don’t speak, in judgment or not, my heart is out there.

Some of “us” parents… the ‘special’ ones… can be a pain in the ass. I know that. WE know that. But we are fighting a fight we never planned to fight, and it doesn’t end. We don’t get to clock out at the end of the day. We don’t get a vacation from it. We live it, everyday. We are fighting without knowing how to fight it, and we depend so much on you to help us. We have been disappointed, by you or others like you. And we are disappointed in ourselves. We are your harshest critics. We are our own harshest critics too. We are genuinely fearful, and driven, and absolutely devoted. And we also know, we need you. So please, be careful with us. Because as hard and tough as we may look outwardly, our hearts are fragile things.

Hippotherapy can help young and old | News | Colleyville Courier

2011-04-06T06:42:00.000-07:00

WE are so proud of Ethan!!!

Hippotherapy can help young and old | News | Colleyville Courier

Little Devil....He is such a great kid!

2011-04-04T15:23:00.001-07:00

My Sweetie!!!!

Ethan like I said earlier is doing great!!! Looking back in the at the last 6 months, I never dreamed that he would be doing the great things after his hip surgery. But, he has such determination and fire in his belly that he won't let anything slow him down. He will be speaking on the 9th at the Apache Angel's Fundraiser this weekend!! He will be telling a room full people how hippo therapy has helped him. We sure are soooooo proud of him. To be perfectly honest their are days were SB gets on our nerves. But, it will not define the person that Ethan is and what he was born to be. HE was born for greatness!!!!
p.s. Happy to my Paw Paw Terry he turned 69 on the 31st of March!!!

Field Trip....to Country Critters

2011-04-04T15:03:00.000-07:00

Mrs. Jeannie and Ethan ...this is Ethan's Pre-K teacher!

Ethan walking down the hall at school! He is doing great! He is sooo happy that his brace is gone!! Dr.G was very pleased with everything. Dr.G told us that he has never seen a child come back like this after a huge hip surgery. He commented on how Ethan has such great determination! Ethan is doing great with his quad-canes! He is starting Miracle League baseball this weekend. He is on the Pirates...with a couple of his friends.

Andrea's Birthday and Gary Allan Concert

2011-04-03T12:25:00.000-07:00

Gary Allan!!!

We had such a great time!! We went Billy Bob's in Fort Worth! WE went for Andrea's Birthday!!! Gary Allan happens to be one of her favorite country singers...and she has convinced me that he is awesome!!! Tommorow is her officially Birthday...she will be 31!!!

Hanging Out with Dad...

2011-03-20T13:00:00.000-07:00

So, Saturday afternoon we meet Greg at OLV were he was mowing and spraying. So, we decided to put Ethan's 4-wheeler on the trailer and have him ride with his Dad. Ethan loves being out there in the fresh air. Tommorow we will see Dr.Gray about Ethan's hip and we are hoping and praying that the brace will offically be off. We feel really good about it. WE were really slow this week with showings of the house but we are thinking good thoughts and hoping for the best. We have our eye on three houses which have between 1 acre to 5 acres....because Ethan wants his mini pop belly pig...and to be able to roam the country side in his 4-wheeler!

Outing with Nate and Chloe....

2011-03-20T12:22:00.001-07:00

So, Friday afternoon we went with Mrs.Carey, Nate and Chloe to the Dallas Arboretum...Mrs. Carey was sweet enough to drive my car because I hate driving in Dallas. WE had such a great time. Nate is probably one of sweetest kids I know. Chloe just makes me laugh and Ethan likes her sooo much! WE had a great day! It was so beautiful out there!

Bee Gees & Celine Dion Immortality (Live)

2011-03-11T17:28:00.000-08:00

To My Sweet Ethan....Love, Mama He is my dream...that is coming true everyday!

Kooken Open House

2011-03-10T17:29:00.000-08:00

Ethan's school had a Open House this evening. Greg and I are super proud of him! We excited to announce that next year he will be attending Vista Academy of Hickory Creek!

Bowl-A-Thon 2011

2011-03-06T09:03:00.000-08:00

He is such a sweet boy! We are so proud of him!

WE raised $300 for the Bowl-A-Thon! Thanks so much to all the donated! We had such a great time. Fleetie and PawPaw joined us and they had a really nice time. Then, after the Bowl-A-Thon we went Justin to show only the outside of the houses we relly like. We had a nice day. It was great to see our friends at the Bowl-A-Thon! WE are planning to have a playdate over spring break! Ethan had a great time bowling! HE got like 3 strikes!

Finally....

2011-03-05T01:11:00.000-08:00

HE is a such a big boy!

It has been SOOO crazy around here. The house is on the market...now I just have to keep the house spotless all the time!! Ethan is doing very well. He is a ball of fire and is very much a 5 year old!! HE still is very sweet but he is very opinionated...a mini version of Greg!haha Today, we have the Bowl-A-Thon so that should be fun!!!

I promise I will post pics for Ethan's NEW DO.....

2011-02-28T17:40:00.001-08:00

2011 SBANT Bowlathon

2011-02-24T18:14:00.000-08:00

Check out Mr.Ethan's newest adventure! Check the above link "BIG E". All these donations go for the better good. Not only will our child benefit but soooo many children with Spina Bifida. It will help children to attend camps with their parents but also go off to camps without parents which give them independence. It seems the "big and heaviest" word in my vocabulary! A BIG THANK YOU TO EVERYONE!!!

NEW DO's

2011-02-23T06:47:00.000-08:00

Look for new updates on hair-do's in the Rine Family!!!

It has to start somewhere....

2011-02-20T14:44:00.000-08:00

Greg and I

So, everyone is probably thinking we fell off the face of the earth. We have just been crazy busy in the last few weeks. If you haven't heard we are putting our house on the market the 1st week of March. WE are wanting to move closer to Greg's work. The hour and half drive at times has really gotten to him...he has been doing for 4 years. So, I have been busy getting it ready for it to be on the market. It hopefully will be ready in two weeks. I also started my Certification for getting my teaching certificate.

In other news...I finally let Ethan spend the night at Fleetie and PawPaws house and I surprised Greg by us spending the night in Downtown Fort Worth. We had a blast hanging out togeher. Ethan loved spending the night with Fleetie and PawPaw. It was hard for me to realize that Ethan has to grow-up and that he has such great potential to become a very independent young man. I don't want to ever hold him back to the great places that he was born to go. This has been a hard ball to swallow. In the last month, I have been told by family memebers, therapists and people that know me very well...You have to let him GROW. Ethan was born for greatness and to be a fighter. I know our son very well, NO ONE will ever bring him down. He has this great passion for life. For the longest time I always wondered what it would be like watching Ethan run across the yard with his two legs...and I know in my heart that one day I will come.

There have been people giving me a big pat on the back for the Ethan's great recovery..I haven't done anything...this little boy is doing all the hard work. I feel like the most blessed woman for been given the oppportunity to be taken for this wonderful ride.

My 4-wheeler and Ryan...plus Mama and Dad

2011-02-06T15:15:00.000-08:00

Ryan and Ethan racing each other!!!

I even rode the 4-wheeler...I used to go really fast but since having Ethan I learned to slow down!!!!

Our little man! He is fearless! Greg bought him those yellow gloves!! He loves wearing them! He is such a Little Greg!

We left Miami for This....Snow and ICE

2011-02-04T07:58:00.000-08:00

We have been in the house since Monday...but we have made the most of it! Our house is clean as a whistle and Ethan has been busy doing homework and painting! It has been nice being home! Next week is going to be crazy!!!! We are going to play in the snow later!!

Cousin Jeb's Birthday Party!!!

2011-02-04T07:47:00.000-08:00

We had a very nice time at the party!! It was great to see everyone! Jeb and Ethan are 7 weeks about, so it's fun to watch them talk. Hoak and Paisley are just precious!!!

Our Trip to Miami Beach

2011-02-04T07:36:00.001-08:00

Way to go Dad!!! Greg won this trip through work! We had a great time! This was our family vacation for the year. Since we will be very busy for the rest of year we took advantage of the trip. Ethan loved the ocean and the heated pool!!! Greg and I loved the food!!

Ethan loves his Aunt Andrea..aka his god-mother

2011-02-04T07:28:00.000-08:00

Aunt Andrea and Ryan went with us to the Stockyards. We had a very good time. Andrea really helps me with a lot of stuff concerning Ethan's education since she is a principal at Hickory Creek Academy. I am hoping Ethan will go there next year!!! We love her!

The next chapter of in our lives....

2011-01-19T20:46:00.000-08:00

So, after a lot of thought and praying we decided that I would go back in get my Emergency Teaching Certification this Spring. I have 5 night classes and 4 Saturday Classes. Yuck! Plus, I have to take a total of 3 tests. Do 15 hours of Internet tutorials and STUDY!!! This is really important to me because I really want to teach where Ethan will be for the first couple of years. After, the let down about Creme before Christmas I figured the best thing was to get back, "on the saddle again"!!! I am nervous and excited about it all at the same time. The tricky thing will be finding the time to do it all! I am hoping to be able to study at the library, workout, clean house and do the other million things on my plate. But, like I say "I do my best work under pressure." Let's just see if it works this time!!!

P.S. January BIRTHDAYS! Happy to Cousin Jeb he turned 5 on the 12th. My Cousin Andrea in Merida she turned 17 on the 16th. Aunt Crystal on the 18th...and if u are over 21 I will not reveal your age! Our friend Chole turned to 2 on the 16th. Future Birthdays are my friend Elise will be 7 on the 23rd! And the most handsomest man in the world Greg will be turning 41! I can reveal his age! So, if I forgot anyone, SORRY!

P.s.s. I just wanted to wish my Abuelitios "Feliz Aniversario" they celebrated 61 years of marriage in December!!!

Oklahoma Trip Part 1

2011-01-19T20:22:00.000-08:00

Ethan loves the outdoors/hunting just like Greg! HE loves to be outside in the cold and snow. Greg is really very serious about gun safety and is teaching him to respect guns. Ethan had a blast feeding the donkey and meeting a new friend named "Queenie" the goat. Mrs. Terry was nice enough to get Queenie out for Ethan. Goats have now made the list of animals Ethan wants! What next?

Oklahoma Trip Part II

2011-01-19T20:01:00.001-08:00

Ethan shaving....starting early!

He is such a cutie!

HE is such a little man!!!!

Well, after a week at home with a cold/strep and no school. WE decided to go to Oklahoma for the long weekend. Ryan even came along for the trip and brought his 9-month old black lab named Sadie. WE had lots of fun! We got to see Great-Grandma Clo and she was amazed of how big Ethan had gotten, aren't we all. We took these pictures with my new camera I got for Christmas. I really like it but just get nervous using it! Ethan learned how to shave, which was funny! It was a very nice visit.

pink - I don't believe you (lyrics)

2011-01-13T17:40:00.000-08:00

I just like this song...and I can actually sing it pretty well. Don't ya'll remember that I used to have a pretty good voice...haha

Rocio Durcal - Amor Eterno: For My Mother: Angelina Victoria Feliz Cumpleanos

2011-01-13T17:04:00.000-08:00

This is song means so much to my mother and I. Reminds us of Merida, Yucatan and all our family there.

Miley Cyrus and Billy Ray Cyrus - Butterfly Fly Away - AOL Music Session...

2011-01-13T16:58:00.000-08:00

This song is for all the mother's and father's that go the extra mile to make there child feel so special and loved! And learning that one day eventually you have to let them go like "butterflies".

My Mama's 59th Birthday!!!!

2011-01-13T16:37:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I celebrated my mother's birthday! My Mama is the best! She always makes me smile. She is my best friend! Which I respect. She has always been there for me and my brothers. She put us always 1st and never looked back. My brother's and I hold her in such great respect. She is just awesome. She tells it how it is, sometimes we like and sometimes we don't but we respect it.
I remember when Ethan was just born and I was having such a hard time cathing him and she was very blunt and told I had no choice, either learn to do it or his kidneys would get damaged. So that I night I started to do all on my own.
If anyone reads this from when I was pre-married, my mother was very strict with me and even though i thought it was unfair at times, I am so blessed that she taught me values and respect for myself. I hope to be 1/2 the mother my mother has been to me. She is the pure greatness! Love you Mama!!!!!

Ethan's New Friend....Priscilla the Pig

2011-01-13T16:31:00.000-08:00

Stadujhar Stables got a pot belly pig named "Priscilla" and Ethan loves her. He even convinced his dad to get him one once and ever if we move out to the country. Plus, along with some cows, chickens, a horse and more dogs!

1st day of Pre-K!

2011-01-04T22:11:00.000-08:00

Well, Ethan did GREAT his first day! He is growing up sooo fast! He loves his new teacher Mrs. Jeannie. More info. later. I really miss him for the 3 hours he is there but it is the best thing for him! He loves everything about Kooken! HE is learning independece. I know he is going to have a great semester. We are super proud of him!

UTAH!!!

2011-01-04T21:59:00.001-08:00

Ethan had a blast! He got to play in the snow! Played with cousins (Jaden and Jaxon which happen to be 14 and 15 years old)they were super sweet to him. They loved playing the Wii with Ethan! He got to play with Niki and they shared very well together. The snow was insane...10 to 27 inches of snow! It was great to see all my aunts, uncle's and cousins. It was nice to spend time with Grandma Williams. Thanks for the trip, Dad and Ana. Ethan sledding, that was scary! It was nice to get home to 55 degree weather and to our own bed!

Christmas 2010

2011-01-04T21:50:00.000-08:00

Well, Santa was very good to us this year! Ethan really got into this year! I was Santa's elf till about 5am, Christmas Day! It looks like a mini Toys R Us in Ethan's playroom! We went to OLV for mass on Christmas Eve with Paw Paw and Fleetie and we had a very nice time. Then, Christmas Day we went to see Ita, Uncle Stewart, Uncle Marshall, Aunt Kellee and Cousin Bailee and we had a very nice time. Then, Paw Paw, Fleetie and Ita came over for dinner. It was very long day but it was awesome. Then, Sunday all my cousins(Jeb, Hoak and Paisley) and Uncle Jeff came down from Georgetown! WE had a great time playing with each other!

Happy Little Man!

2011-01-04T21:46:00.000-08:00

He is the happiest kid I know! It is contagious!

Christmas Playdate's

2011-01-04T21:34:00.001-08:00

We had a playdate on December 21st when our friends Bryce, Caleb and Nathan. These boys have grown-up with Ethan. They had a great time decorating cookies and doing a gift exchange. We have known most of the them since they were 15 months old. They are extraordinary boys and so are there mothers!

Then we had a playdate with Nate and Chloe. There mom was the one that made Ethan's cake. You can check her work at cmcakes.blogspot.com. Anyway, we had a nice visit with our friends. Ethan and Nate go to the same school! Chloe is Ethan's future girlfriend! They gave Ethan for Christmas, Star Wars cookie cutters! They are soo cute!

Visit Santa Claus at Bass Pro...We had a great time!

2010-12-18T17:21:00.001-08:00

So, today we took Paw Paw and Fleetie with us to Bass Pro. Can I add that this store is Greg and Ethan's favorite place to shop....anyway we had a great time. There was a 2 hour wait so we ate, shopped and Aunt Andrea showed up and surprised us! Then we went to her house and Ethan was super happy to see Jaydee(her dog)! Ethan and Santa had a nice little chat. He proudly gave him his letter. Ethan loves Christmas Season!

Visit with Poppy and Uncle Sherman!

2010-12-15T18:08:00.001-08:00

Poppy and Uncle Sherman were in town the same night, so we got to hangout! I really like Uncle Sherman he was super fun! He invited us to come to North Carolina..which may do this spring! Dad thinks great Turkey season!

Back in the Saddle -Again!!!

2010-12-13T14:23:00.000-08:00

Ethan did great today at Hippo. He gave Magic a BIG KISS! I was sooo proud of him!

Andrea's House (Ethan's God-Mother)

2010-12-13T14:16:00.000-08:00

Ethan loves his Aunt Andrea!

Fun-Filled Weekend!!!

2010-12-13T13:59:00.000-08:00

Things are going so great! It is kinda scary sometimes that our little family is so happy! It is crazy how a year ago, I was trying to find acceptance in myself and figure out that I wasn't SUPERWOMAN all the time. I have found out that the simplest things make my heart so full of happiness. Greg and I are doing great in our marriage....we have come a long way in accepting each other of who we are,communcating really well and how Ethan has made us so very happy and thankful for everything. Nothing is perfect in the world, but it feels pretty close! This year we have started a tradition...going on a carriage ride in Downtown Fort Worth!

The Last 2 weeks....CRAZY!

2010-12-10T06:42:00.000-08:00

Ethan's Star Wars Tree!

Ryan and Greg

So, the last 2 weeks have been crazy. Between Greg going hunting with his buddies, putting Christmas Tree up(Ethan's Star Wars Christmas Tree), Dr. Appts out of control(which is good...Ethan weighs 51 lbs and is 46 inches tall..Dr.J says he is in perfect health), Ethan's ARD(which went Great!), Getting all the therapies lined up for the new year and the most EXCITING news: Ethan is WALKING..I was brought to tears when I gave Ethan his walker and he just went and was saying, "Mama, I am walking, look at me I am walking"! Everyone is AMAZED to say the least! I feel so great about everything...Ethan is doing great! Went to swimming and he did awesome...went to put a lift in his left shoe and Mr. Frank was also amazed in the difference. I have a feeling Ethan is going to have a great school year and he is excited to start all his activites. I will be posting his new schedule this weekend. WE have a excited weekend ahead! At the end of the day...I am so blessed and happy from head to toe! Things are going great for The Rine Family!

Thanksgiving...So much to be thankful for!

2010-12-01T18:14:00.000-08:00

So much to be thankful for...the list is so very long. I am thankful for our Ethan he is our Thanksgiving kid. Life throws us curves but we always get back up and ready for the anything and everything! Life is to precious to waste it on stupid petty things. Look at this face on this boy and know that we all need to be thankful for the small things in life.

At the Zoo with my Friends...

2010-11-23T09:33:00.000-08:00

We went with the Nackley Clan and the Austin Clan. It was a wonderful day!! We had such a great time!!!

more pictures of Ethan's 5th Birthday....

2010-11-23T09:16:00.000-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ETHAN!!!!

2010-11-22T08:46:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to the BEST BOY in the WORLD!!!! We had a great day!! Actually, it was a great Birthday weekend. Ethan was the center of attention per unusual. It is crazy how Ethan has grown up. We will go down memory lane this week. So look for that post! Ethan got to spend time with Poppy, Ana and Nikki on Saturday and then Sunday we got to spend time with Fleetie, Paw Paw, Abuelita and Aunt Andrea. Thanks for all the presents. Greg and I got him a 4-wheeler from Bass Pro and he loves it! Thanks to Mrs. Carey who made my birthday cake...Ethan loved it! More pics to come!

p.s. Happy November Birthday's to my Tia Sandra and Abuelita Victoria in Merida. Also, to Isabel: Happy 11th B-day!

3 more weeks....till Ethan is on his FEET!

2010-11-18T13:45:00.000-08:00

So, Tuesday Ethan and I went to pick up his brace. Let's just say that Ethan was not very happy, but came to realize that this brace was going to be apart of him for the next six months. As we drove home I became very sad thinking about how extraordinary Ethan is....he is the BEST LITTLE GUY IN THE WORLD...and I am so very honored that he is MINE.
There are some changes that have happened the last couple of weeks that I am going to share. I will not be returning to work and that Ethan will be attending Kooken once again beginning in January. I was very disappointed but have seen the silver lining in this. It was the perfect solution. Ethan and I were going to be together, therapies were close to the school and I was going to get some independence that I wanted. Don't get me wrong, I blessed that Gregory has a great job which has kept me able to be a SAHM. When driving home Tuesday I realized that Ethan needs 150% of my time and I am honored to do it. Hopefully, after the 6th of December Ethan will be getting on his feet. He will have a busy schedule. I know we did the right thing about this surgery and I don't look back. I know one day Ethan will be grateful also. Will keep y'all posted on the upcoming schdule. Can't believe he is going to be 5 in 3 days!!!

Seriously.....

2010-11-16T08:43:00.000-08:00

So, yesterday we were all pumped up for Ethan to get his cast off only to find out that they sent the wrong size brace. They sent a XS...their is nothing x-small about Ethan. Poppy came along for the ride which was nice...it was helpfully to have another set of ears. I was given alot of information. So, I was given the choice either to leave Ethan in his cast or put a leg brace and a therapy pillow on. I chose the leg brace because I knew how much he wanted out of the cast. It was kinda of funny the nurses and staff were actually wanted Ethan's input on the decision. So, today we are going back to Cook's to get his brace. He can not put ANY weight bearing on his feet for 3 weeks. HE is allowed to crawl...but that is up to him. If does fine, if doesn't fine also. I know he is going to try to stand-up and walk so if should be very interesting. So we will probably start therapies in a month from now or wait till the new year. Anyways, he has already tried to get off the bed by himself....this should be really interesting. He loved taking a bath last night. Will keep y'all updated.

4 hours to go.....FREEDOM

2010-11-15T07:30:00.001-08:00

Our appt. is at 115pm today and we are SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO EXCITED!!!! Will put new pics up of Ethan after he gets out of his cast.

4 days to go and Counting!!!

2010-11-11T15:47:00.000-08:00

Ethan is such a tropper. Is attitude is great and he is ready to start moving. Have a lot of stuff to fill everyone in on!

Brandi Carlile - The Story Lyrics

2010-11-10T15:59:00.000-08:00

So last night, I figured out how to download videos. I was very proud of myself. And since I liked this song so much I figured I would download it.

12 days to go...the countdown is ON!

2010-11-03T09:04:00.000-07:00

So, yesterday was a super long day for our little man. He woke up for anesthesia in a very bad way. Which was totally understandable....he was just so upset to find both of his legs completely casted. After about 30 min. he calmed down and was ready to go home. When we got home, he realized that he could sit up and he was SOOOO happy.
Ethan: " Mom and Dad, Look at me? I can sit up, I am so happy"! Greg and I were about to start crying. We can't wait till all of these is over. Yesterday morning, Ethan woke up and told me he had a wonderful dream. I asked what his dream was about, "Mama, my dream was that my casts were off and I was walking all over the place". It brought tears to my eyes. It's heartwarming to still know that the simplest things can make someone so very happy.

Ethan...One Strong Boy!

2010-11-01T17:28:00.000-07:00

So, tommorow we are off to get this cast off and have another one put on for 2 weeks. I will be honest these last 6 weeks have been hard on Ethan. His attitude has been GREAT! But, the last 2 weeks he has gotten very frustrated without having the ability to move. The itching has been driving him crazy. Benedryl has become our favorite drug since a month ago. I hate giving it to him but it is the only thing that gives him relief. He misses swimming, riding Magic and just plain walking. And I miss not being able to hold him and squeeze him. He has acquired a bit of attitude but with reason...we cut him a little slack. I now I would be pulling all my hair out by now. We are super proud of our little guy. I can't believe he is going to be 5 years old in 20 days. WE are going to have a GREAT DAY!!! By the way this kid has not lost any weight...he is eating really well.

Happy Birthday...October

2010-10-19T12:55:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Uncle Stewart and Sarah(mama's BFF)! Love Ya, Ethan

Big Guy...little patience

2010-10-17T17:05:00.000-07:00

Big E is doing well, but is getting very frustrated with the whole cast thing. It is really starting to itch him, so we have been giving benadryl at least 2x a day. He is sleeping pretty good, and has been taking naps again. Friday night he had a hard night and Saturday he was MR.CRANKY. Greg and I were is shock on how upset he was. He has not been that upset in at least 2 years! HE is very much into Star Wars and Tom and Jerry! Everything else is going pretty smooth. HE knows his Birthday is coming up and we decided to do Star Wars shopping via-Internet on Target.com and he just added 7 items to the cart by himself! Greg and I are convinced that either Ethan will be a doctor when he grows up or a computer wizard. He has taught me stuff on the computer. It is amazing!!! WE have been doing some school stuff and he really enjoys it. I am soooo excited for him to go to school again and of course the bonus is I will be there also. He will be going to Creme-Prep at Creme de la Creme. HE will be with kids that just turned 5 but could not go to kindergarten due birthday cut-off.
WE are just excited about the part of our lives to come to a end. 4 weeks down....4 weeks to go!!! WE are super proud of him....GO BIG E!!!

Spina Bifida Awareness Month

2010-10-12T08:55:00.000-07:00

Our Sweet Boy!

This month is Spina Bifida Awareness month and I have thought a lot about what I wanted to write about what Spina Bifida means to me. And I still don't have all my thoughts in order yet but hopefully soon. One of my friend/SB mom has decided to feature 2-3 kids a day on her blog in honor of this month. Today, Ethan made her blog...so I am hoping that I get some new followers. So check out her blog at themclellands.blogspot.com...it is awesome!!

So what has been happening here at the Rine House....Ethan is overall doing pretty well. He does tend to get frustrated by the end of the day, but looks very forward to getting out of his cast. 3 weeks and 1 day down...hopefully 4 weeks and 4 days to go. He and I actually went to Tom Thumb this past Friday and Saturday we went to Target with Ita and he really enjoyed getting out of the house. I will probably try to take him out once a week. I was super proud of myself and of course Ethan!!!

Before Ethan had his surgery several people asked me "How can you put your son through such a surgery and plus all the casting"? At first, I didn't know how to respond to the question. But, after some thought I wanted reply to the question. We did this for him and to better his life....he has the ability to walk better. WE thought about it long and hard and had the support from a Dr. that is very honest and does not take things lightly. This was the best choice for him. It has been a rough few weeks but it can only get better.

Update: 2nd Cast

2010-10-08T06:17:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to let everyone that Ethan's cast change will be November 2, 2010. We are hopefully that it will come off November 16th....before his birthday! We have pre-op on November 1st. It will be a busy week but looking forward too it!

Update: CT scan and Dr. Gray Appt.

2010-10-06T16:41:00.000-07:00

The CT scan went beautifully. Ethan is such a trooper! We spent most of our day at Cook's and we stayed outside for fresh air while we waited for our dr. appt. Dr.Gray gave us a A++, it looks like Ethan will have his 2nd case put on the 28th of Oct. or November 1st. It looks like everything will be off by his Birthday!! We can't wait for this chapter of our lives to be complete. Thank you all of your love and support!

Going down Memory Lane....How 10 years go by so fast

2010-10-04T16:35:00.000-07:00

Ethan: 4 1/2 years old

Ethan: 3 years old

Ethan: 18 months old

Wedding Day August 30, 2002

Engagement Picture 04/2002

Day by Day...is what I say!

2010-10-04T16:12:00.000-07:00

So sorry that I have not blogged recently, I have been super busy with Ethan that I am so tired at the end of the day that getting on the computer is the last thing I can think about. Overall, we are doing pretty good. About Wednesday last week Ethan pretty much wanted out of his cast and was pretty emotional...which in turn brought me to tears. So we had a good cry and we lifted our heads up high and decided to move forward. He had a good weekend. WE go walking everyday for at least an hour and if he falls asleep it turns into a much longer walk. He really just wants my attention 150% of the time and he gets sad when he can't see me or hear my voice. Being confined has been hard on him. He likes his wheelchair and Fleetie and PawPaw got him a bean bag. So I move him between the sofa, wheelchair and bean bag. He has been sleeping really well the last few nights...thank you, Lord. We are going to have a CT scan done on Wednesday and see Dr. Gray right after. So we will see where we are at. I went out for a couple of hours yesterday which was good but I missed Ethan a lot. I was always looking in the backseat and missing our little conversations.

So What is Going On.....On the Home Front

2010-09-25T17:51:00.000-07:00

So we left the hospital Thursday afternoon and it was interesting between fitting the wheelchair(which Ethan does not like) and the car seat straps(which,let it be known we will not be going anywhere for the next 5-6 weeks unless for dr.appts and Greg will be with us). Ethan was super happy to come home and started acting like his old self. He has become very demanding which is ok....he is getting a little frustrated with the ability not do be able to do the things he is used to doing. Overall, he is doing well. At night seems to be the most uncomfortable for him, he does not lying on his back. WE have been trying our best to make him comfortable. He changes positions and locations every hour or two. He has been watching a good amount of t.v. which I am not a big fan of, but he also has been playing his wii games which he is doing a good job for his eye coordination and using his hands/arms which have been a little weak since the surgery. Starting hopefully Monday we will start our school work...which i think he will enjoy. The plan is still for Ethan and I to start back to school in January...if everything goes as planned.
He gets really tired about 3pm or 4pm but does not want to nap. He has been getting up around 930 every morning. Cathing and enemas seem to be the hardest part of it. It is very much a two person job.

I do have a confession that Thursday night...I officially lost it. After putting Ethan to asleep...I took a shower and cried my heart out and it made me feel so much better. He is sooo strong and has this attitude that is above awesome. I worry that his attitude will become sad, but we are doing our best to keep him smiling and laughing. WE have been giving his pain meds at night which seem to help.

Overall, we are doing pretty good and want to thank each and everyone for there support. We have had sooooo much out pouring support from our family and friends!! Thank you!

Our Hero...Ethan Lee

2010-09-21T17:09:00.000-07:00

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To sum it up our son is our HERO!!! Dr. Gray did a awesome job and said that it went perfectly and is glad that we did the surgery. It looks like Ethan will be in this cast for 5-6 weeks and then be put in another for 2 more weeks and then wear a brace for 6 months. So it looks like we will start Hippo and swimming in the mid of Decemeber or January. Today has been a little rough...last night was really rough but since 4pm he has perked up. He has a morphin drip and is on a pain killer. He has a slight temp. which is normal. His EGD came back perfect..he will stay on prevacid once a day for the next 6 months but now he is got to start eating regular food so we just have to convince him that he won't hurt him. We will tackle that when we get home. Thank you for all the prayers and support it means soooo very much. I start my remicade Thursday at 930am so I will be at the hospital for three hours. Most likely we will be here till Thursday or Friday.
WE are so proud of our little man he is a huge inspiration to so many people!!!

Katy Lake..What Fun!!

2010-09-21T16:50:00.000-07:00

We had such a great time at Saint Jo, Katy Lake. Ethan drove the boat and got to swim and ride the crazy hotdog. It was great to get away and have a relaxing time. Ethan is fearless...he will try anything at least once and he loved swimming in the lake and riding the banana boat.

Pre-Op Tour at Cook's Hospital...

2010-09-14T07:23:00.001-07:00

Last night the three of us went to Cook's for the Pre-Op tour. I think it is a great idea for kids that are going to have surgery in have to stay in the hospital. Ethan was very brave, asked alot of questions and was his charming self as ususal. He definetely knows that he is going to have surgery on his hip and understands that it is going to help him. We are SUPER proud of our little man!

Riding Magic...

2010-09-14T07:17:00.001-07:00

Ethan rode Magic for the last time yesterday for at least 8 weeks...Ethan gave him a big hug and kiss...we look forward to going backs to the stables.

Happy Grandparents Day...love, ethan

2010-09-11T05:42:00.000-07:00

Happy Grandparents to my Fleetie, PawPaw, Poppy and Abuelita(Ita). Also, Happy Grandparents Day to my Great Grandma Clo, Great Grandma Williams and my Abuelita Victoria and Abuelito Cesar in Merida. I am very blesssed to have these people in my life and that love me sooooo much!

p.s. Happy Birthday Poppy 9/10/10...you are so young!!!

Miley Cyrus: The Climb..what a climb!

2010-09-08T19:55:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NG2zyeVRcbs&feature=youtube_gdata_player

This song kinda sums up how I have been feeling these days. The last few weeks have been very trying. Ethan is the best little boy in the world. Ethan makes me smile so big when things are going a little rough. His attitude is a inspiration. I wish I could be strong like him. We are going to Cook's for a Pre-OP on Monday(the 13th) for Ethan to tour the hospital..I am excited for him to understand the whole process. Then on the 15th we go for the Pre-op for his surgery on the 20th...along with the long list of questions for Dr.Gray. Ethan and I have been super busy with dr.appts. Just wanted to get all our ducks in a row. Ethan and I both got our blood tested and we are both O+...so I get to give him my blood which makes me feel good. I just found out today from my GI that the best approach would to get me started on Remicade infusion..which is very serious but effective...which is what I need. I hope to start next week before Ethan's surgery. I have been in alot of pain and feeling very discourged. We feel REALLY good about Ethan's surgery and know we are doing the right thing. He loves being so free but we can tell that he is getting tired quickly, this is not like our big boy. HE always is running around everywhere. We added a seat to his walker which he really likes and allows him to rest and go back to running around. So I ask everyone out there who reads this blog for BIG prayers. We will keep you posted!!!!

The Sweetest Boy and Strongest Boy in the WORLD!!!

2010-09-08T17:58:00.000-07:00

Ethan is soooo stong...he loves playing swords. He is back into STAR WARS:CLONE WARS. He is convinced he is a JEDI in training and has super powers. He still loves to swim...he is a BIG FISH!! I can not believe my little guy is going to be 5 years old in 2 months!!!

My Hunting Mural...Thank you Poppy!!!! I love it!!!!

2010-09-08T17:52:00.000-07:00

Well, when my Mama is determined to get something done...she gets it done. So, she found Katelyn a art student that works at her mom's art studio "Creative Hands" in Arlington and she painted this wonderful mural in my playroom and Poppy wanted to be apart of it also. I love it!!!

Rainforest Cafe with my Dad and Mama

2010-09-08T17:48:00.000-07:00

We had a great time at the Rainforest Cafe! Check out the new seat on my walker...thanks Ryan for putting it on for me!!

Great-Grandma Clo and Ethan

2010-09-08T17:45:00.000-07:00

Great-Grandma Clo and Cousins!!!!

2010-09-08T07:17:00.000-07:00

Grandma Clo came down from Okla. to Arlington to visit all of us. Cousins Jeb, Hoak and Paisley came down from Georgetown to visit also. It was great to spend time with them.

Bright and Shiny....our little man

2010-08-31T22:16:00.001-07:00

SO Ethan is back to his old self....just we have been going full speed getting everything ready before the surgery on Sept.20th. Details to come!!!

Heavy on my heart...

2010-08-22T20:34:00.000-07:00

So this past week has been a little rough..in a nut shell Ethan...starting vomiting Wednesday morning about 3x and I freaked out. I called the neurologist and pediatrician. We went to see the pediatrician...they did a cpc, urine and strep test all came back neg. He said it maybe the shunt but I decided to give it the another day before we decided to CT scans and stuff. Thursday afternoon came and he vomited again 3x in a row and I took him to the ER...CT came back perfect...he had a fever plus not eating( and he loves to eat) and then Friday came more vomiting and FINALLY I LOST IT!!! The pediatrician put him on anti-vomiting med. and it worked until Saturday and decided he needed to a gallon of water and threw up a little. So in a nut shell....I am sad, confused and really really over SB. I don't know how to put it into words....we try to live a normal life without any worries and that just does not exist. I tried to explain it to some other mommies I know. It is one thing for our kids to get the common stomach bug but I guess in Ethan's case I don't stop there because we have to think could it be the shunt or a urinary infection. The unknown is what has gotten to me this last time. Mind you Ethan never really gets sick...6 months to the date. Every 6 months the boy wants to make sure I am on top of things. And I am. I don't want to become this crazy mommie but I see myself not breathing a cleansing breathe at times. For the past few days I have layed in bed thinking of things I wanted to write down on this blog and found myself laying in bed shedding tears. Ethan is the BEST thing I have ever done. He makes me laugh so hard...his determination that he has so inspiring...the FIRE in his belly makes you want to strive to be better because you feel like you are lacking behind. SB is not a curse but a blessing. At times, I have seen it has a huge bumpy road. I have shed tears of pure happiness but at the same shed the same tears of sadness. I will never stop worrying and being on top of my game....because that is who I am. Ethan makes you want to be a better person...I was a lot like Ethan when I met Greg 10 years ago....naive, innocent and a huge dreamer. I still tend to have these atributes, but have come aware of the world we live in.
But, I hope children like Ethan will make this world a better place. So....I guess at the end of day you give your little boy a big kiss on the cheek and tell him " I love you and I will always take care of you" and you take a deep breathe.

What 's New...In Ethan World!

2010-08-16T18:50:00.000-07:00

Well, Ethan is doing very well. He is a chatter box....ALWAYS TALKS! Which makes me very happy! He is doing well at Hippo therapy....Magic has been a little moody and almost bucked Ethan off today...but he did not! Mrs. Lisa said that Magic was going to get a "hard ride" this afternoon. Ethan wished Magic luck! Ethan loves his dog Buster...they have become best friends...Buster is very protective of Ethan. He knows he is having surgery on his hip..and he is ok with it. He has been complaining that it hurts but does not slow him down. He is doing great with Mrs.Debbie at OT...he is making huge progress. We are very proud of him. He and I are both going to a chiropractor 4x a week which has been great for both of us. Ethan and I are both doing acupuncture...Ethan says "Mama, Dr. C makes my back feel better"!
The little guy cracks us up.....he speaks his mind which sometimes not at the best time. But, he is learning not to say everything he thinks! HE is a very sweet, kind and outgoing little man. He has been talking about Halloween and he wants to be a "HUNTER" like his Dad. He is into hunting magazines...and convinced he needs to shoot a Quebec Caribou and needs to go to Quebec with his Dad. Academically, he is learning alot: his phone numbers, his address, different states(that he wants to hunt at). He is very smart but sometimes tries to be a little sneaky! Last couple of weeks I have been getting together a lot of my teaching stuff together so we will be start our own "home-schooling". I am really excited! I have a lot of things to keep him busy while we are home after his surgery.

Like I said Ethan says the darnest things for example. Today, I got pulled over by a cop today for speeding trying to get Hippo therapy and this is how my little man reacted:

Me: Ethan, the nice police officer is just going to talk to Mommy. Everything is fine.

Ethan: Mommy, are we going to the slammer?

Me: What?

Ethan: Are we going to the slammer?

Me: No, honey...everything is fine.

I talk to the nice officer and he kindly let us go.

Ethan: Good-bye officer(waving also)...Mommy, he was very nice.

Me: Yes, he was.

Ethan: What did you do?

Me: I was speeding a little bit.

Ethan: Well, Mommy you need to slow down.

Ethan than proceeded to tell everyone we saw today what happened! My life is not boring!

About ME: Well, I have just started some steriods for my tummy issue hoping that I can get a better control over the coloitis. On the 26th I will be having a mole removed from my thigh...the determologist is not to concerned but feels the need to remove it...which is fine by me. Other than that I am doing pretty good!

Summer Fun!!!

2010-08-03T14:43:00.000-07:00

My Mama and I!!!

Swimming with Mr. Matt!

So today we went to swimming and Ethan is doing GREAT! He can go almost 3-4ft down and get something out of the water plus going down the BIG HUGE slide! He and Mr. Matt have so much fun together. Today, they practiced on life-jacket/boat safety and he did great! Then, we went to pick up Ita and we went to lunch...we always have a great time with her. I see myself turning into my mother in soooo many ways! Which I am glad I am. She always makes me feel better about things and she makes me laugh so hard! I am so grateful that I have her so close to me. Ethan loves to push my buttons in front of her because he knows that his Ita will save him from any trouble.
P.S. Happy Birthday to my Tia Gladys in Merida...she and I have always been close even though we are thousands of miles away...My Tia Gladys saved me several times from my own mother when I pushed her buttons! Happy 51! Te quiero mucho! Also, Uncle Marshall will be turning the BIG 30 on the 9th of August!! Now Ita and Poppy have all there kids in there 30's!!! Love ya!

All BOY!!!!

2010-07-27T16:42:00.000-07:00

Ethan and Greg mowing together...I for see mowing in Ethan's future!

Walk n Roll....it was GREAT!

2010-07-24T09:59:00.000-07:00

This morning Dad, Mom, Fleetie and I went to the Walk n Roll. It was alot of fun! I started out walking but ended on Dad's shoulders but at the end I walked it in and got myself my ribbon! It was great to see old faces..Bin was one of them. I got to see Caleb and some other friends..we really missed Bryce but his grandmother and aunt were there...so it was great to see them...and we missed Nathan also. Then Aunt Sarah (Will and Drew's Mom) surprised us and showed up...Mama was very happy to see her. WE RAISED $460.00 in less than a week!!!

Walk n Roll...1/2 mile!!

2010-07-17T06:20:00.000-07:00

Ethan and I will be participating in the Walk n Roll 1/2 mile...all proceeds go to the Spina Bifida Associtation of North Texas! Thank you!! It is July 24th...we getting involved alittle late because we thought Ethan would be having hip surgery!

http://spinabifidant.myetap.org/fundraiser/WalkNRoll/aboutEvent.do
go to Team/Participant and enter:Ethan

My Birthday...I am a wife, mother, daughter and friend..

2010-07-16T20:21:00.000-07:00

Sooooo, for my Birthday I went to out with my friends Anna and Sarah om Sunday...Monday went to spend time with my Mom and Ethan. Monday night Greg and I went out for dinner and lastly went out with Andrea Wednesday. Like Ethan said"Mama, your birthday is over"! I had a great time each and every night...but I am to old! But, I have some reason behind it...last Friday I had a colonoscopy done..it find out that I inherited ulcer colitis from my Dad. When my parents that about having a little girl that put alot of thought into it!!!!haha I had been experiencing some severe issues! Another mystery solved! So I am on some great medication and am learning what not eat...even if I want to eat it!:( Ethan's hip surgery is going to be September 20th...we are nervous but have all the hope and faith that everything will turn out GREAT! Ethan is doing great! Hippo and swimming have to be his favorite things besides being very talkative. The boy looks like his Dad but he is all me! He loves life, embraces everything! My mom says he is the happiest little boy in the world and is a piece of work! I will be going back to teach in January....that gives Ethan time to re-group before he goes to school...I am soooo excited that he and I will be at least in the same building! He is sooo independent and he has the drive for life!I never feel alone...there is always Ethan!!!!

p.s. On a sad note..My Uncle Doug Beck passed away on July 4th after fighting cancer for several years. He was a very kind and sweet man. He and I loved Gloria Estefan..he loved singing and dancing!!! It was so funny!! Our heart goes out to my Aunt Sandy and her whole family!

July....what excitement!!

2010-07-16T20:06:00.000-07:00

So....when we got back from Disney with a couple of days to re-group and off to Georgetown, Texas for Cousin Hoak's Birthday! We had a nice time and it was great to see the boys and paisley. The boys and Ethan played and had a great time! Ethan really liked Paisley and so did his Daddy! Greg got to hang out with her and it was sweet! Ethan loved swimming in there beautiful pool...his Daddy taught him how to go down almost 5FT...way to go Ethan...give Mama a small stroke! So again, Happy Birthday Hoak!!!

More Disney World.....

2010-07-16T19:39:00.001-07:00

So...where do I begin. First, of all big thank you to Poppy and Ana for the trip! It was great!!! We had a great time!! Ethan did great! He did great on the plane rides plus he was a great sport about the parks...he and I stayed at least between 5-6 hours for the first four days and then we had to take a break and just hang out at the hotel. Ethan walked actually alot...His favorite park was Magic Kingdom! They were super sweet there! We never waited in any lines which was great! Ethan is fearless, I on the other hand with age have become less of a rebel. When we went to Magic Kindgom the first time, he and I were about to leave but he wanted to stay for the parade. I am so glad we did...he was walking and waiting patiently for the parade to start and we had Disney employee come over and ask us if this was our first time, Ethan's name...a few seconds later we were invited to be in the VIP section of the parade and it gave Ethan the opportunity to meet all of the Disney characters. I of course starting crying has we walked to the VIP section and crowd started clapping for Ethan. It was soooooo cool! We had a great time!!!!

Disney World...what a blast!

2010-07-08T19:17:00.001-07:00

I had a great time!! More pics to come and sooo many stories!!!

What to do...what to do?????

2010-06-17T01:10:00.000-07:00

Going out to eat with Mama and Dad after Dr.appt! We had a great time!

Riding Magic...Ethan amazes me!

Is the question that we are dealing with! Yesterday went to see Dr.G about Ethan's hip. I was determined that I was not leaving without answer of when his surgery was going to be...was I wrong. Dr. G spent alot of time with us which we appreciated it very much. In a nut shell this is how it went....Ethan has great quad and leg movement and is very strong. Dr. G was very impressed. If we have the surgery he would have to shorten his leg and he would walk with a limp. Dr. G says there is a 75% that it would work and he the will stay in place. Of course I am the optimistic one and thinks that Ethan will prove them wrong. He tends to do! It is a lengthy surgery,he would have 2 huge scars and be in a body cast 5-6 weeks. And go back to swim and all his therapies 2 weeks later. If it does not work the hip would pop out again and we did it for nothing. But, if we don't do anything he will be able to continue to walk and do all his activities and go about his business and watch it get worse over time. The surgery needs to be done now or within the year or two. Sooo the question is what to do? Dr. G ordered a CT scan of his pelvis and that will answer alot of questions...whether we do the surgery or not. He wants us to be all on the same page..no surprises and going with our eyes wide open. At the appt. I did get alittle emotional talking about the fact that Ethan loves to walk and the freedom that he experiences with walking/running all over the place. He has never had any desire to have a wheelchair even try one out. With saying that one day he might and that is ok and will be his decision. We will get together after CT. Hope to have it done before we go to Disney World on the 29th of June. Ethan is so excited about the trip.
A few of our friends are going through there own issues and it breaks my heart that such wonderful little guys have to go through sooo much...and I hope and pray that everything will turn out for the best!

So what is new.....you better sit down!

2010-06-08T19:43:00.000-07:00

Alana and Ethan!

So first of all I just wanted to apologize for not blogging in such a long time....get ready to read alot.
So first of all Ethan is be going to see Dr. G at Cook's on the 16th of June to discuss our next step for surgery on his hip. It has gotten worse over the last month. But, it does not slow him down...he still a mover and a very fast one! We are preparing for surgery hopefully in the end of July! He will be in a body cast for 8 weeks...completely yuk! That is all I can say about that!
Secondly, I AM GOING BACK TO TEACHING...and Ethan is coming with ME! After, Ethan's is done with the 8 weeks in the cast we are going to back to my old school that I taught at before I had E...Creme de la Creme in Colleyville. I will teach Pre-K or Kindergarten. I am sooooo excited and so is Ethan. I took him up there and he loved it. So you probably ask why I am going back to work? Well, there is several reasons why...first, Ethan was sooo happy at Kooken and so was I with all his progress but there really wasn't a place for him. When I say that they could have found place for him but, it was not going to be a good fit. Mrs. Mary wanted to keep him PPCD but there was no way he could stay and if he did stay he would have gone to a class that would not help him grow. And he is progressing like a wild flower...that is putting it very mildly. He is like a sponge just soaking everything and anything up. So after long discussions we decided that me going back to work back to Creme would be great! I am excited for myself because I will have the opportunity to be close to Ethan and also regain some independence again. Don't get me wrong I am sooo blessed that I have gotten to stay at home with Ethan for the last 4 1/2 years. But, it is time for Marissa to get back to being Marissa...even for a few hours a day. The perk is Ethan will be at a great school! Also, we will be closer to all of Ethan's therapies everyday. So hopefully if all goes to plan we will be starting school the first week in October. WE are all very excited!
Thirdly, The pictures on this blog are from the 2nd Annual Family Picnic for Mrs. Mary's Class and we had a great time. Mama and Mrs.Carey planned it all. They did a great job. I got to see some old friends....I got to see My Alana...my girlfriend. We are going to see some of her this summer. SOOO excited. I just wanted to tell everyone that WE are sooo blessed that we had a great staff at Kooken Education Center for Ethan. Mrs.Mary, Mrs. Lisa and Ms.Priscila were the best. Also, a big thank you to Mrs. Meyers and Ms. Church. They were Ethan's Pre-K teachers. Mrs.Kim(Speech) she as been with Ethan since he was 2 years old. Mrs.Kellee(PT) and Mrs.JoAnn (OT) were awesome. Not only was Kooken great for Ethan...Kooken was great for me. I was the PTA president for the last year and it was alot of fun. I got to use all my creative ideas and it made me want to help those who needed help. I also made some great friends.
Lastly, the next of couple of months are going to be some tough ones but with the strength and power of GOD...I know we will get past this....and Ethan will continue to be a stronger little boy.

Ethan and Alana...how sweet!

Mrs.Lisa and Ethan

Mrs. Mary and Ethan

Mama and Ethan!

Mama, Alana, Ethan and PawPaw Terry

Swimming...what I live for!

2010-06-08T19:31:00.000-07:00

I love to swim....actually I am pretty good swimmer. I can swim across a pool in 3 breathes, I am kicking my feet really well and I use my arms alot! Mr. Matt is super proud of me. I have really gotten quite competitive at swim class. Dad bought us this great pool for our house. We put chlorine in it also.I can swim in it for hours..literally! I love wearing my shark mask...Mama bought it for me, she thought it was super cute!

Oklahoma...what fun!

2010-06-08T19:14:00.001-07:00

Fishing with Mama! What a big fish!

We went to Nash, Oklahoma over Memorial Day Weekend. I had a great time...I love to fish, really I love to fish! Mama and I caught 12 catfish! Dad caught 8! PawPaw and Fleetie were also there and I got to spend time with them, which was alot of fun! I got to hang out with Mama and Dad which was super fun! I shot my .22 rifle with Dad and I really enjoyed that! Mama was a nervous wreck, but I was a very big boy!

Mother's Day...How I am so BLESSED!!!

2010-05-09T19:29:00.001-07:00

My little man makes me so very happy, He is doing well. He is the BEST thing I have ever ever done. It took over a week for him to get over this horriable,miserable and chronic BM problem, but it is sooooo over. He will be at school on Tuesday(we will have all the test results)!!!! I feel today complete, more than ever. This little guy makes me feel whole and sooo very happy. He tells me how happy he is everyday and that he is my best friend! HE is such his own person...don't get me wrong he has alot of greg and I but he is his own person. He has this fire,compassion and drive that I have never seen. My baby turned into a toddler which into a little man....he makes me complete and so does his DADDY!
I am so blessed he is mine! Life has thrown us some curve balls and we have missed some of them and some of them have hit us really hard but we can take whatever is thrown at us...we don't go down without a HUGE fight!

We Are Still ALIVE!

2010-05-04T19:44:00.000-07:00

Dad's Crawfish Boil...Greg and I really like them!

Ethan and I hanging out with a little friend, "Mr. Crawfish"!

Ethan winning his race at school and swimming!

Pic of Dad with his friends in Utah! Brad, Darin,Greg and Steve!

It has been a crazy few weeks. Sorry that I have not updated lately. Ethan keeps me REALLY busy and by the time nite fall comes I am completely and utterly wiped out. Ethan is doing well...he has a stomach bug that has not left us yet but in hopes that it will be living very very soon. Greg went to Moab, Utah for a week with a couple of buddies to do some four-wheeling...Ethan and I drove to Georgetown to see the"Georgetown Rine Family". Ethan won his race at Kooken Field Day...I was super proud of him. He got to swim the first day in May with the help of Greg and I....preheated pool! Info. on Ethan's hip...he needs surgery just a matter if we do it this fall or wait for the winter. We go back in June to talk more. So we will keep u updated. Other than that it just has been super busy. Ethan has seasonal asthma which we got under control ...thank GOD!! If we could just be done with the "horriable bug" life would be easier. Enjoy the new PICS of Our Sweet Ethan!

Alot of news to share...

2010-04-06T01:26:00.000-07:00

OUR SWEETBOY!

MY ROCK STAR!!

So what has "not" been happening at our house for the last 2 weeks..you ask? After Ethan's superman experience it seem things just went down hill fast. To sum it up..I have seen our pediatrician 5 times in the last 10 days. First, Ethan was diagnosed with croup then turned into sinus infection/bronchitis by Tuesday and by Friday he had walking pneumonia and now has possibly has seasonal asthma! He has been on a breathing treatment since Easter Sunday. Thank GOD..Dr. J is open on weekends and that we always get in with no problem. Ethan has been a great kid about the whole thing. He has missed a lot of school...but I am a firm believer...please leave your kids at home if they are sick so you don't get anyone else sick. That is a whole other subject! Then to top this all off...this past Friday Greg and I took Ethan to his orthopedist in Hurst for x-rays and to get a prescription of new AFO's( the boy wears these out)! He was a great! I also had a Dr. appt. in Fort Worth with my orthopedist to find out how my foot was doing so I had to leave before we got the results back. Needless to say...the results blew our minds...Ethan's left is dislocating..which is called PARALYTIC HIP DISLOCATION. I got the news over the phone while waiting to see Dr.C....I did not take it very well at all. Dr.C told me where to take him and who to see for a second opinion. Dr.Q Ethan's ortho. talked about surgery and said she would wait. We will know more after we talk next week to the other Ortho. at Cook's. This has been very heavy on my heart and has really tested my faith. This past weekend I personally a basket case. I kinda have isolated myself from everyone and for that I am sorry. I have to tell you both of my parents have been very supportative and great listeners. My mother has really helped me alot with my feelings and my sadness...but I informed me that this to shall pass and to be strong. Because Greg and Ethan both need me. Terry and Fleet also have been very supportive and making sure that we are ok! WE work so hard( Ethan, I and Greg) for Ethan to be soo strong. I felt like I was getting my heart ripped into a trillion pieces. Yesterday, I spoke Mrs. Lisa..Ethan's PT at the stables and she has 4 kids that ride at the stables who have had this surgery and the outcomes have been great! WE have noticed that he is dragging his left foot a little...but he corrects and starts walking straight. And of course when he walks/running fast it is completely straight. Dr. Q says it won't get better but that surgery is a very serious thing. We just don't want it to get worse so that is why I am on a mission to get all the info. I can get. The great news he still gets to ride Magic and swim with Mr. Matt. Greg is handling the news well...I think what helps him is that he knows that I will stop at nothing to make sure we get the right care and answers that we need. So I will keep you updated on this subject.
In other news, Greg and I have decided to stop Feeding Therapy for NOW... and for us to work has a team on the feeding issue.... u ask that boy has feeding issues? We are reading this book about feeding a child with special needs and I think it is going to help us. Will keep u posted.
In happy news...WE want to wish Happy Birthday to a few folks...Paw Paw Rine 3/30, Aunt Andrea 4/5, Cousin Bailee 4/10, Fleetie 4/12 and Uncle Jeff 4/29!

I ask all of you to pray of my sweet, loving,talkative, opinionated, determined Ethan!!!