Adventures of Coldwhiteguy, Arcticgirl & our little snowflake

http://naomistroke.blogspot.com/

2011-01-29T22:20:00.002-09:00

Haven't posted on here for awhile. Please check out my new blog about recapturing my life after having a stroke.

Hopefully 2011 will be a better year.

p.s. I love my iPad!

Phil hiking Mt. Alice in late fall

2010-11-02T21:57:00.002-08:00

Mt. Alice is on the other side of the bay from Seward. Mt. Alice is about 4800 ft tall--it is a tough hike, but has spectacular views.

our little girl

2010-11-01T22:40:00.001-08:00

Late summer turns into fall

2010-11-01T21:04:00.001-08:00

Getting ready for the pumpkin prowl

2010-11-01T20:19:00.003-08:00

Ladybug Girl

2010-11-01T19:58:00.002-08:00

Quin doing the happy dance!

2010-07-23T23:38:00.002-08:00

p.s. Heather took this amazing picture & video and wanted you all to know that it was her.

Mt. Marathon

2010-07-22T19:36:00.002-08:00

Phil & Sam (our nephew visiting from Ohio) climbed Mt. Marathon today. Over 3200 feet almost straight up. Way to go guys!

Hitched...July 9, 2010

2010-07-10T22:21:00.005-08:00

1 week!

2010-07-03T00:47:00.004-08:00

It is just one week until our wedding in Homer. In case anyone was wondering, we are registered at target under Naomi Fischer & Phil Wade.

https://www.target.com/registry/wedding/VGJ72CS4R78L/guestview

I wish you could all be here. We'll take plenty of pictures and email them. I am getting quite excited. Phil is now off work until after our mini honeymoon (after working 84 hours last week); which is a very good thing

My Aunt is here visiting and soon my sister & her kids will be up. It is going to be a very small wedding (about ~16 people), which should me very intimate.

We plan on having a Seward reception at the end of July for all our friends/coworkers here.

2010-06-10T21:52:00.003-08:00

Quin and I are back home with Phil. Tuesday Quin and Phil went on a long walk to the face of Exit Glacier (~1.5 miles) and Quin did very well--I took a nap as I had walked earlier that morning. I have been taking each day at a time, resting and puttering around the house.

This afternoon I decided to go for a walk and at about the halfway point it decided, out of the blue, to rain. As soon as I got home the rain stopped and by early evening it was sunny and beautiful. Quin and I decided to go on another walk and would you believe it, as we walked out of the house it started to rain again!. We were troopers, though, got our umbrellas and walked anyhow.

Phil is becoming wonderfully domestic. He vacuums, cleans the litter box and does the dishes. When he isn't working he cooks dinner. He also takes Quin to and from daycare on those days when she needs to run around and I need to rest. I hope all this domesticity sticks around even after I am healed.

Less than a month now till the wedding!

2010-06-04T13:19:00.002-08:00

Hello everyone,

I don't have a lot of energy these days, which is why I haven't written. Still, I wanted to let you all know that I am doing well on the road to recovery. It is 6-8 weeks from surgery (May 17) before I should see a significant gain in energy, decrease in pain, etc. But every day is a little better. During the surgery they crack open your sternum to get to the heart, so you have to be very careful afterward to let that bone reset & heal. It hurts when I sneeze, cough, laugh & hiccup. And what is worse, no big hugs, because the squeezing hurts--I miss that. I can't drive or lift anything over 10 pounds for those first 8 weeks and after 8 week I am still restricted to just 20 pounds for about half a year.

Quin and my mom came over to Seward after I got home from the hospital. We spent a week there and then we came over to Homer. We'll be here about a week and then Phil will come and get us. If it wasn't for my parents helping with Quin, I don't know what I would do. I can't pick her up and I need a lot of sleep, including long afternoon naps. It has been great having them to help with her. Everyday I walk, either outside, if it is nice, or just around the store. I am increasing my length of time and have a little more stamina everyday. It is getting a little easier getting in and out of bed and I am even now able to sleep on my side for a little bit.

Even after all this time I am still in shock that I actually had this surgery. I can hear the mechanical valve tick-tick-ticking away though, so I know that all is well and in the end it was good that the surgery happened when it did.

What a crazy year this has been. I am ready for the wedding and then all then no more life changing events (new child, new house, new heart) for many years to come.

~Cheers, Naomi

I'm free!

2010-05-24T09:08:00.009-08:00

What a week I have had!

Last Friday (May 14) I was admitted to the hospital. I thought my cardiologist would think it was something significant, but that I would be out on pills for a while to relax the breathing. It astounded all of us just how drastically my aortic valve stenosis (thickening) went from mild to very severe (3 years for me, often 20-30 gradual years for everyone else.

Saturday night mom and dad flew up from Homer and picked up Quin. They then all drove in my car to Seward to pick up stuff for her and then they drove on to Homer. They have all been having a good time--she is still there & mom send me pictures every other day of what they have been doing.

After they left (last Saturday) around noon they took me for an angiogram to see if my heart was strong enough.

Technique

Access to the valve was gained through the right femoral artery, to look at the left side of the heart and the arterial system as well as pushed into the lungs. Using a system of guide wires and catheters (pushed up through that artery all the way though the cambers of the heart, a type of contrast agent (which shows up by absorbing the x-rays), is added to the blood to make it visible on the x-ray images. ~adapted for wikipedia

They found that everything looked good--strong heart muscles, clean veins & arteries. My aortic root above the valve was found to be enlarged (at least doubled in size) and they thought they might have to repair or replace that part as well.

Sunday I just had some x-rays and blood work done. The surgeon cam in several time to talk with me and show me the different types of valves. Because of my young age, we opted for the mechanical vale. It is wrapped w/carbon filament and is the most long lasting.

It has taken me 25 minutes just two write all of this so far--I am not on my own computer & am on pain killers.

Monday Phil showed up at 6:30 a.m. They took me at about 7:30 a.m. I remember entering the room and some gentle preparation--nothing more.

I woke up in the ICU. I had a breathing tube down my throat which was very uncomfortable and meant I couldn't talk. Phil was right there, looking down at me, squeezing my hand and being very reassuring,

I am finding it increasingly hard to type, so I will expand on this tomorrow. Just quickly, I was in the ICU 2 days, then the normal care unit for 4 days and was discharged yesterday. I am in lot of pain, as they cut though your sternum & it take a long time to fix that. Thank goodness for pain killers. I was discharged late afternoon Sunday. We are staying t the Hickel House (click on the link to see) until at least Tuesday to follow up with the surgeon. It is nice here. Finally today, after a week, I can take a shower and have no needles in me.

I am very grateful for the hospital staff, for my parents and to Phil who has been a friend and a help to his "patient".

I now have a big, new, red scar 9 inches down my chest and some smaller scars below from the drainage tubes and from where they pulled out the pacer wires (for a temporary external pacemaker). I gained about 18 pounds from surgery from all the fluids pumped in, so I am on medicine to get me to pee a lot to reduce the water swelling,

The wedding is still planned for July 9 in Homer.

Unexpected Heart Surgery

2010-05-15T11:01:00.003-08:00

Well, I am in the hospital in Anchorage. I have had a hard time breathing lately and it turns out that my aortic valve which used to have mild stenosis(hardening) now has severe stenosis. The valve (which is bicuspid rather than tricuspid) is barely opening and blood is not pumping through well.

Today I am having an angiogram where they use a catheter to look at my heart and make sure I am good for surgery. After that I talk to the surgeon and should have open heart surgery on Monday or Tuesday. I still don't know if I will have a mechanical or tissue valve--probably mechanical will be recommended for me.

I should be in the hospital for 4-5 days. I am at Providence Hospital in Anchorage. My parents flew up today and got Quin, who will be staying with them in Homer for the next week or so. After I get out mom & Quin will come over and take care of me at home.

Phil is here with me now and will come back up for the surgery. He has to work a few days next week, but will come back up when he can and will be here when I get discharged.

You can call our house/Phil if you want more info/updates or email my parents at: dan@kachecab.com

I am a little scared, but know that this is a quality facility and I am being well cared for.

I hope to get to write more soon.

~Naomi

Finally moved

2010-05-03T19:12:00.002-08:00

We are finally all done moving. Granted, our garage is now full of boxes that will probably take all summer to go through, but at least we are out of there and all the packing and carting is over.

It is a beautiful day today, which is great after we have had weeks of rain. Our yard is almost clear of snow. We have a great back yard, complete with a campground-like park setting with a picnic table and fire pit.

Tomorrow is Family Day! It was one year ago that we met Quin and became a family. The 8th grade is going on a field trip to Anchorage tomorrow and Quin is coming with us. We are going to the newly opened planetarium and to the zoo. It should be lots of fun. In the evening, if Phil doesn't get called in to work, we are going to go out to dinner for Chinese food and have a special celebration for just the three of us.

Even busier

2010-04-20T20:04:00.005-08:00

Wow, I thought after adjusting back from break things would calm down--not the case. We are still moving--tomorrow we do a big push to get all the stuff out of the main part of the house. Phil is working tonight and I am working tomorrow day, so we are going to head over in the late afternoon and then work all night if need be--we are going to bed Quin down over there as we'll probably be there until late.

Phil's been sick since our trip. Quin came down with a fever on Friday, topping 103.5 on Saturday and I came down with a massive head cold on Sunday. I think we (at least Phil & I) would do with a long break and lots of sleep. Alas, I don't see that in my future for a long while.

I am way behind on updating pictures from the trip. Here are two pictures from the end of the trip. One is of Phil's sister Heather & Quin. The other is a picture of the elementary school Phil went to in Media, PA.

So amazingly busy!

2010-04-15T20:51:00.002-08:00

Things are crazy here. We got the house! Two weekends ago my parents came over to help with a few handy-man issues. Last weekend some friends helped me move for a couple of hours. Thanks to them the furniture is almost all in.

Phil was/is sick & working, so hasn't moved anything yet. Quin and I have been living here for a week and loving it. It has been sunny, rainy, snowy.

This weekend my parents and brother are coming back over to help with a construction project. I spend every day bringing car loads to the house and finding all the new places for it.

Quin has a fever, so I just went up to the school to leave lesson plans so I can stay home and take care of her tomorrow.

I am so busy and could use a break! Luckily there are only 5 weeks of school left.

Guess what we are doing tonight--Phil's taxes! He is the biggest procrastinator ever!

I hope to post pictures soon--I just need to bring the camera to the new house.

~Naomi

We're home

2010-03-31T20:39:00.002-08:00

We made it home--the flights were okay, albeit long.

It is snowing here--a light, wet snow that shouldn't amount to much. yet, we still have a LOT of snow on the ground.

We should get the keys to the new house tomorrow. Now I need to pack for the move as I am unpacking from the trip.

It was lovely to get to spend time with our family--I will write more later. For now, i am tired and am still adapting back to Alaska time.

St Louis, Day 1

2010-03-18T17:04:00.008-08:00

We went to the St. Louis Science Museum today.

Phil saved and saved as a kid to get this exact model building kit now on display at the museum.
Quin likes dinosaurs, but was not quite sure how she felt about the life size exhibits. Here a large T-Rex is roaring and moving while a wounded tri-ceratops lays dying...(pic above, not below ;)
Quin and Uncle Bob check watch cars passing underneath the bridge overpass that connects the science center to the planetarium.
Quin catches her first sight (outside) of the dinosaurs we are there to see.

"Get up Baba!" Phil always wants 10 more minutes.

The family unit
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

We are in St. Louis. We arrived around four yesterday. Phil's uncle Bob, who we came here to see, was at the airport to meet us. Last night was mainly spent getting settled--hotel check in, shopping for a coffee maker & car seat, dinner...

Quin was still feeling quite rough yesterday; lots of congestion and a horrible cough. Today she is doing considerably better. Phil and I are hoping to keep the cold at bay, although we both feeling it niggling a little bit.

We met Bob for breakfast this morning and then drove into town to the science center. It was VERY full of school kids, lots of class groups. We liked looking at the space exhibit and especially the animatronic dinosaurs. Afterwards we came back to the hotel and "caught up;" looking at pictures and videos, eating pizza take out and generally relaxing.

Tomorrow if it is nice we are going to go to the zoo. Quin really wants to see the elephants and giraffes. We also plan on going up the arch while we are here.

Today it was overcast in the morning, and then it cleared off and was clear and sunny, around 60 degrees. Tomorrow it is supposed to be around 70, while snow is expected for Sunday.

Arkansas, day 3

2010-03-16T11:02:00.008-08:00

Everyone, but mama, gets to wear her new hat!

Quin isn't feeling well. She has a cough and is congested. Still, Quin is being smiley and has a good attitude.Today we met Tom and Judy for breakfast and then we all went to the Janet Huckabee (yes, that Huckabee) Arkansas River Valley Nature Center. There were a lot of interactive exhibits, including some live snakes, fish and turtles. There were also outside walking trails and we ambled around, enjoying the nice weather.

Arkansas, day 2

2010-03-15T18:47:00.003-08:00

For her birthday Quin got a new nightgown from Grandma Judy and Grandpa Tom. She decided she wanted to wear it tonight--she is, as always, very cute.

Today we had breakfast out with Phil's dad and step mom, then we went to their house. In the afternoon we went to the Fort Smith/Trail of Tears National Park Historic site. It was a warm, sunny day and we enjoyed walking around the area, overlooking the river where the fort used to be. In the evening we all went to dinner, joined by Jennifer, Krysten and Bethany. Afterward we all went back to the house and Quin and Bethany colored together. I even got Phil to do a little yard work while we were there.

Phil and his dad look a lot alike, minus the age difference. They both love dark chocolate and coffee, have the same speech cadence, have a lot of similar behaviors, and both have a sweet, wonderful, giving woman in their life ;)

What a lovely day

2010-03-15T04:09:00.011-08:00

Phil in the tunnels at Chucky Cheese
Quin's in a horse race

The pinball wizard!

Bethany and Quin dive right into Birthday cupcakes

Bethany and Quin enjoying the nice weather

What a lovely day we had yesterday.

Phil's dad & step mom met us at 10:30 to go to Chucky Cheese for Quin and Bethany's birthday party. Phil's dad, Tom, is married to Judy. Judy has a daughter named Jennifer. Jennifer and I have the EXACT same birthday, March 12, 1971. Jennifer has two daughters and a son. Her youngest daughter (about a 14 year age difference between the next youngest) is Bethany. Bethany and Quin share the SAME birthday, March 13! Bethany just turned three, while we all know Quin turned four.

So the whole family, along with Judy's son's family and a neighbor/family friend all went to Chucky Cheese. I haven't been to one since I was really little and all I remember are the somewhat creepy moving characters that played music, so I didn't know what to expect. Because we were there when it opened, there weren't a lot of people, which was nice. There was a little kids area and the girls had a fun time riding the moving horse, going down the slide, climbing through the tunnels and otherwise running around. I didn't know Phil is so good at pinball! I think he enjoyed playing that way more than he enjoyed crawling up and around in the kids tunnels--we both took our turn. Quin did not like the big characters--I tried to get her to stand by one, but she was not having it. I thought it was kind of funny that they freaked her out, only because they are a bit freaky and yet they are supposed to appeal to little kids.

Quin, Grandpa Tom (Phil's dad), Bethany and Phil's step-brother

After CC, we all went to Jennifer's for presents and cupcakes

Jennifer, Bethany, Quin and Brett (Phil's step-nephew)

and catching up. It was really neat to be with Phil's extended family. I was touched to watch Quin bond with everyone, especially Grandpa Tom and Grandma Judy. She is such a loving kid and it makes me happy how we all just felt like family so easily. Quin and I just met everyone, but it feels like we have been a part of the family for much longer. I love that Quin is able to see how many people love her and to get this sense of relatives and extended family.

We took a lot of photos, but Phil is sleeping and I can't find where he put the memory card with all the pictures on it, so I will have to wait to upload those later.

In the evening Phil, Quin and I went to Red Lobster for dinner. Phil and I would eat there every night. We both had lobster, which we agreed was not as good as Alaskan crab, but was none the less good. Quin had, by her choice, shrimp and steamed broccoli. There aren't any RL in Alaska, but I know they have lots for me to eat, since I don't like/eat farmed, chemically induced meat, so it was a treat for us.

Somehow I forgot to pack a jacket. I thought I was packing one for me and one for Quin, but instead I packed two for her and none for me. After dinner we went in search of one at Target (it took us a little driving around to find a store for clothes that was open at 8 on a Sunday night) and they didn't have any jackets. I don't really need one right now--it will be in the 60s today, but when we get to Ohio and especially Pennsylvania it will be cooler. I know I can find one at my sisters, I just thought I would look here. Phil has been cold in our room at night, mostly because he is always cold, but also because we had to turn off the fan that blows the heat into the bedroom because it has an awful high pitched whine that is hard to ignore when trying to sleep. We looked for an electric blanket at Target, but they didn't have those either--funny, in Alaska you can get both year round--I never thought there would be none at all here.

p.s. It looks like it is going to be a lovely day here. The sun is coming up, the sky is pretty clear and the breeze has died down. I talked to my mom in AK last night and it she said it snowed all day yesterday. I am definitely glad for a break.

Not in Kansas anymore

2010-03-14T06:52:00.006-08:00

In fact, we never were in Kansas, but we are in Arkansas.

Once again, our trip turned out to be eventful, including 1/2 hour delay on our first flight out due to mechanic issues, a 1 hour connection time in Seattle where we had to go to the otherside of the airport, switching trains 3 times, only to find out that gate agent when we got off gave us the wrong gate and we had to go back and get on yet two more trains to get to the correct gate. Phil ran ahead to get seats (we were not yet assigned), but when I got there Phil hadn't checked in; he thought just being there was enough. The computers were down at that station, so I had to run to another counter and check us in and get boarding passes. Did I mention that I was CARRYING Quin as we sprinted back and forth across the airport.

In Texas we had another hour turnaround and after a long train ride to another terminal we go to the gate to find that we no longer had tickets!! Apparently somewhere during the journey some agent exchanged our Fort Smith tickets. They couldn't tell us who did it or when the new tickets were. At this point we had 30 minutes and the lady at the gate wouldn't help us. She sent us to another gate were they tried to help, but couldn't. So I had to exit security, find the main ticket counter, get the tickets fixed, go through security (they missed the soda in my backpack, but removed the two water bottles) and run to the gate without my shoes on as I didn't have time to put them back on AND make the plane. The lady at the gate was still very obstinate, but since we had boarding passes now she couldn't argue with us. The lady at the ticket counter said she could have issued us seats. Did I mention that when I got back to the gate Quin and Phil were not there?!? The plane was boarded and it was just me. Finally I saw Phil walking down the terminal and we made it on.
It was so nice to get here!

I like Arkansas. It reminds me of rural Ohio. We had a nice dinner with Phil's Dad and stepmom, Tom and Judy, and relaxed at the hotel last night. Our first flight out was at 1 a.m. so Phil and I hadn't slept for 36 plus hours.

Quin was a great trooper on the trip; she slept, spoke quietly, entertained herself with coloring and was generally good and not whiney. Yesterday was her actual birthday and on the last flight the attendant announced that Quin just turned 4 to the entire cabin and they all clapped. Today we are having a birthday party for Quin and her cousin Bethany (Phil's niece) with Phil's family.

It is a little windy here, overcast and in the mid forties. It was 13 when we left Anchorage, so I think the weather here is good.

More later!

Blizzard #2

2010-03-08T17:33:00.010-09:00

Quin likes the snow, she just looks grumpy for some reason in this picture.

We had another all day blizzard warning today. We woke up to about 18 inches of new snow and the snow fell all day. In the morning the snow was dry and light, which made it easy to drive through. However, it was very windy and so it was very hard to see on the way in to work. All the buses were delayed and the Moose Pass school actually closed as there was so much snow out there (just 22 miles away). This afternoon the weather warmed up a little and now the snow is wetter and heavier. Our driveway was again plowed when I got home, but it did take me a while to dig out the front steps.You can see the little path I cleared just to get to the door. After that I went back and cleared all the steps off. I hope a lot of this snow melts by April as it will be hard to move with the snow piled up.
Above is the view out the living room windows--you can see how high the snow piled as it slid off the roof. At the new house the snow will slide off the sides (it is a chalet style house) and we (that is me, Phil doesn't shovel or mow lawns) won't have to shovel so much--I am very grateful for that.

Iditarod

2010-03-06T10:01:00.004-09:00

The Iditarod starts today. Today is the ceremonial start which takes place in downtown Alaska, right on 5th avenue. According to the new coverage, there are 1, 136 dogs on the street today. Tomorrow is the restart, which takes place in Wasilla, and is when the race actually begins. The race is about 10 days long and the temps can get to 50 below. Mushers have food cached along the way at the check points, and from all the mushers I know, by in large they love their dogs, take very good care of them, treat them like family and are sensitive to the dogs and their needs.

The Iditarod race is 1150 miles long and is the most well known. Lesser known is the Yukon Quest, which is a little shorter (~1000 miles), but is considered more grueling. The Iditarod goes from Anchorage to Nome, while the Yukon Quest goes from Fairbanks to Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada (alternating direction every year).
One of the mushers is from Scotland and at the start today his dogs were wearing tartan plaid blankets and the musher was wearing a kilt. It is unlikely that he'll be wearing that tomorrow when the race really begins.

Still snowing!

2010-03-06T07:54:00.003-09:00

It is still snowing. The snow came thudding off the roof all night, pulling down the gutters and piling up so high that the windows are half covered.

Here is the link to the Seward harbor webcam so you can see live what is happening here: Seward webcam

No snow day!

2010-03-05T15:58:00.004-09:00

Wow, we got a lot of snow! The schools in Homer were called off, but we still had to go. We got several feet of snow last night--it was up to my knees when I went out to clean off the car. Luckily we got out and back alright. Miraculously the plow guy actually came already and we were able to get up the driveway; I was planning on Quin and I to gave to slog our way up. Phil was a sleep when the plow guy was here, though, so his car is pretty snowed under. I don't think he'll be able to get it out for a while. I started to shovel it out when I came home from school, but it was just too much. He'll have to drive my car for a day or two until we get it out.

It is actually raining now, on top of the already heavy, wet snow--not a good combination. The avalanche danger is very high right now. I am glad we don't have to go anywhere this weekend. Next weekend, however, is a very different story. I hope this clears up by then. Unfortunately it looks like more of the same for this weather for the next few days.

Here is a image from today from webcam over looking Seward Harbor:
This is the road traveler information map. The red shows dangerous driving conditions. As you can see, the entire peninsula is pretty treacherous.
Update: Phil was able to back up his car and plow through the piled up snow. It is really windy and really wet outside now!

Blizzard Warning

2010-03-04T21:13:00.002-09:00

We have a blizzard warning for tomorrow all day, starting at 6 a.m. There could be wind gusts of 85+ mph. We had several inches of wet snow last night. We could get 4-8 inches tomorrow and another few inches overnight tomorrow night. Ugh. I am ready to be done with snow and I am hoping it won't snow down south when we are in the Lower 48 for Spring Break. We leave a week from today.

Time for a change

2010-03-04T17:19:00.004-09:00

I got my haircut. The girls at school all love it. You can't change a thing without them all commenting. They notice what you wear, especially if it something new. The're obsessed with my color coordination. It is funny. I don't mind, though. I like my students and really have no major disciplinary problems.

In Homer

2010-02-27T21:35:00.003-09:00

Quin and I are over in Homer.We came over yesterday after school. It is a nice drive over--lovely in the snow, but a little long at 3.5 hours (in the winter). Today we went to look a mom and dad's pieces at the art gallery and then we drove out the Spit to look at the outside of the townhouse on the beach where we Phil and I are getting married this summer. We still have to plan the food, get the cake ordered, and find a dress, but at least we have a place to have the ceremony now, plus we have plane tickets and hotel reservations for our mini-honeymoon in Seattle. We are going to do very touristy things like eat dinner in the Space Needle restaurant, ride the monorail, go to the SciFi museum and Pike Place Market. Quin is staying here with my parents, so it will be our one chance to be truly free, stay up late, sleep in and do boring adult things.

We did have tsunami warnings/advisories, but nothing ever happened. Alaska's 1964 earthquake was a 9.2 in magnitude and the series of seven massive tsunamis destroyed a lot of the Seward coastline.

It snowed a little bit this afternoon. The view from my parent's house is so spectacular and I love just sitting here and watching the mountains and the bay. So much for breakup; it was 11 degrees here this morning!

Quin and Nana and Yeye are having a great time together (so am I). We are staying until Monday-- I am taking the day off of school. Two weeks from today we will be flying down south to Arkansas for the first leg of our four city Spring Break trip. Plus, it is Quin's birthday that day (mine the day before), so a lot of coming up soon.

Breakup

2010-02-24T18:22:00.007-09:00

We got a new lamp shade and Quin has found a use for the old one.

Quin loves talking on the phone, so we got her a little toy one and she has lots of conversations on there with herself--if I try to answer her she gets mad at me and says she isn't talking to me :)
It feels like breakup and it is still February! The snow is melting and today the sun was shining (gloriously) and the temperature was up to 46 degrees.

Just two weeks until we start our trip. I have a lot to do before then--lesson plans, packing lists, packing, confirming reservations, etc. I haven't heard any more about the house closing, but that we are getting close. It will either be by the end of next week or it will be after we get back from our trip.

Last night Phil made some pan-fried salmon for us, which was just lovely. Tonight he broiled some steaks and they turned out absolutely perfect--this was his first attempt at broiling and we had to call my mom and consult the internet for advice. The trick, it seems, is to keep the oven door slightly a jar. I don't usually eat meat--haven't had a steak in years. I only eat free range, organic, antibiotic free meat which we were able to get in Anchorage last weekend--nothing like that available here.

Phil just got called into work. It must be very hard to be on call and know that if they call you in it means that it is busy and possibly chaotic. I don't know how he manages to deal with the stress, but I sure do admire him and what he does.Quin and I are sitting here listening to jazz. I am typing and she is playing with her lego train set. I should be packing the house up for the move--I am trying to do a little every day so I am not over whelmed in April when we go to move.

*Sorry for the poor quality pictures--I used my built in webcam and the light was low.

Astounding Success

2010-02-22T19:26:00.004-09:00

My students and I with some of the many boxes of pennies that we rolled and I carried to the bank.

I wrote an article for our local online news--for the entire write up click here

All totaled we had 50 rolls of quarters, 90 rolls of dimes, 79 rolls of nickels, and an amazing (and very heavy) 1315 rolls of pennies. If anyone ever doubts that pennies do add up, we have the proof. With an average weekly income in Haiti of $2.00, or four rolls of pennies, handling all those rolls helped the students to see that they really can make a meaningful impact in someone’s life.

The final total is $3707 that we raised for Haiti relief--all funds to go to Doctors Without Borders.

Mrs. Wade

2010-02-21T20:42:00.008-09:00

How weird that sounds. I always thought, if I ever got married, that I would keep my name. And now with Quin having Fischer as her last name I thought I would be Fischer for ever. But I find that I want to be Naomi Wade. I want us to have the same name. Phil has discovered (as he says) that he really wants me to be Wade and funnily enough, Quin also wants to be Wade. She talks about it a lot--the wedding,our new names, our new house, her new room. She is such a great kid--she is adapting so well to these changes. In the country for just a year and she will have a new address to learn and another new name to learn. She is happy about it and I think talking about it a lot, and the fact that she has gone the new house twice, she knows what to expect and that makes all the difference.

I think Naomi Wade sounds lovely.

Plans are coming along

2010-02-21T20:24:00.004-09:00

Phil and I have finally made some wedding plans. We are getting married in Homer at one of the beachfront lodges (townhouse). The picture above is the view off the deck of the unit we are staying in. We are going to stay there on the 8th and 9th of July. We have decided to change our wedding date to July 9th so that we can have a few days (before Phil goes back to work) for a mini-break Honeymoon in Seattle (we'll fly from Homer to Anchorage to Seattle and back). Quin will be staying with my parents for the 3.5 days we are gone.

If the weather is nice we will get married on the beach--if not we'll get married in the living room. Either way it will be a lovely view. We are going to splurge and stay some where really ritzy when we are in Seattle--somewhere downtown with Space Needle/City views.

Our house appraised at exactly the contract price, so we are good there. Now we are just waiting on Title documents being prepped and should close in about two weeks! We won't really be able to move until April, due to our extensive Spring break trip, but that will give us time to box stuff and move a little bit at a time. I can't wait until we are living there and all settled in.

Our little cutie

2010-02-17T16:44:00.002-09:00

We had an apple for a snack after school. I am so glad Quin likes a lot of fruit and vegetables.

Quin took this photograph of me--it is a little close, but it is the first time she actually managed to get my face--usually it is an arm or torso...

The fuel truck came today--he has to back up the driveway with all that oil and Quin likes to watch.

Sticky!

2010-02-14T16:31:00.000-09:00

We made brownies for Phil for Valentines Day. Quin got just a little messy.

I like this version of our card--thanks Bob!

2010-02-14T16:29:00.000-09:00

Valentines Day

2010-02-14T13:04:00.004-09:00

Even though Phil worked 12 hours last night, he still stopped by the store and bought a dozen roses for Quin and a dozen for me.
He also got me this oh-so-romantic card ;)

The card talks--click on the arrow.

2010-02-14T13:03:00.000-09:00

nóng lì xīn nián

2010-02-13T22:05:00.007-09:00

春節 Happy Chinese New YearChinese New Year is the biggest holiday in China. This year it is February 14. It is the year of the Tiger. I am a boar, Quin is a dog and Phil is a monkey.

Quin and I are going to make special Chinese food, read Chinese folk stories and watch the Big Bird in China video (which she has never seen) where Big Bird actually goes to Quin's hometown of Guilin.Gong Xi Fa Cai!

Wedding Dress

2010-02-08T20:07:00.004-09:00

No, not my dress, Quin's.

She and Carlie (my niece) are wearing matching qípáo dresses.

Still snowing!

2010-02-07T13:03:00.002-09:00

It is still snowing. The plow guy just came, though, so at least my car can get down and Phil's car can get up the driveway now.

Camping In

2010-02-07T11:06:00.003-09:00

Fun in the snow!

2010-02-06T18:20:00.005-09:00

I threw Quin in the snow and she couldn't get up. It was really funny.

I don't know why, but Quin absolutely loves eating snow!

Snow, snow, snow!

2010-02-06T09:25:00.005-09:00

Yesterday we got about an inch of light, dry snow. Last night, however, it warmed up and several more inches of heavy wet snow fell. It is still snowing!

Phil barely made it home from work this morning. The roads are not plowed and our driveway is impassable. Our plow guy is out of town helping someone in an emergency, so we are going no where today. Phil had to park his car at the bottom of the hill and walk up in the thigh high snow.

I am glad today is Saturday and I have nothing pressing to do. Quin and I both have colds (sinus, mainly) so it will be good to stay in and hang out.

Obsidian taking a cat nap

2010-02-06T09:12:00.002-09:00

A friend just sent me these pictures (see below). He said "Some things in life just beg to be altered......" I agree. Very funny!

Pictures of my students

2010-02-05T16:56:00.002-09:00

Here is a link to some pictures of my students counting the money for Haiti. It is taking a long time as more keeps coming in every day. The students decided to donate it to Doctors Without Borders. I am proud of them.

http://sewardcitynews.com/2010/02/03/swms-busy-counting-money/

Another step closer

2010-02-02T16:58:00.005-09:00

Here are pictures of the upstairs bedroom, the closet & bedroom are above, room below

Views of the living room, looking to the front of the house and looking to the kitchen

We had our house inspection today and all went well--just need to replace a few outlets. Otherwise it is in good condition, even with the 80s cottage cheese ceilings in the bedrooms (blah).

The loan is being processed and it seems like all is in order there, so if all goes well we may close in the first week of March.

Shan Shan and Phil go shopping

2010-01-30T11:10:00.002-09:00

Quin went around shopping with her cart and then she went over to Phil and he checked her out and helped her bag her groceries.

It is all happening here

2010-01-29T19:25:00.006-09:00

Phil and I are buying a house!! Our landlords are moving back to Seward so we have to move by May. Phil and I had been eying a house for months and this was the prodding we needed to make an offer. There was another offer on the house, but ours was just accepted!!

The house is two block from my school on the end of a quiet dead end street. It has a big grassy yard and will get lots of light. The views of the mountains from there are spectacular. Plus, we will now have amply water and be able to take baths and do laundry and all that fun stuff. Also, no icy hill!

We are working on a loan now--it looks like we'll get 5%, which is good. If all goes according to plan, we'll close by April 1st and be moved in by May 1st. The inspection is Tuesday--I am not too worried about that as the house looks to be in good order (Phil went underneath it last week to check the foundation and construction).

We are very happy.

The Penny War continues

2010-01-26T19:10:00.002-09:00

Check out this write up I did for our local online news website. I estimate we have raised about $1500 so far! The picture is of me and my advisory class (we're spearheading the fund raising).

The SWMS Penny War continues

Phil and Shan Shan cooking

2010-01-24T18:31:00.004-09:00

Quin and Phil were cooking the other day. Quin likes raw tomatoes and peppers, but not cooked, and she loves cooked mushrooms, but not raw.

They were making a chicken stew in the crock pot. Shan Shan helped Phil add the spices.

Overwhelming Joy

2010-01-20T19:30:00.005-09:00

I have been quite sadden by the devastation in Haiti, but in that despair I have found joy in the generosity and compassion of my students and this community. One of my students, a young girl who used to live in a poor, sad orphanage in Eastern Europe and was adopted at age nine, took it upon herself to go door to door and ask neighbors for donations for our fund raising. In one night, she brought in $389. I was so moved. She is not what people would consider an especially good or bright student and yet what she did, on her own, was so selfless, so kind. I am truly touched and really proud that our students have responded as they have. It is great to be able to find joy in these sad events.

2010-01-16T18:10:00.002-09:00

Our landlord called this afternoon to say that they are moving back to Seward and we have to be out by May 31st. We do have a long lead time, but Seward is not an easy place to find a rental and the housing market is not very flush.

I guess the good side is that our next place will most likely have an ample supply of water (bath night every night for Quin, she will be so happy) and a lot less dangerous driveway. The thought of having to box everything and move, though, is depressing.

Getting students involved

2010-01-15T16:23:00.006-09:00

I talked to my advisory class at school today and we have decided to raise money as a school for aid to Haiti. My students really want to help them get clean water. I am glad they actually care and want to do something. Here is a link to the Seward City News website where I posted what we are doing and asked the community for help.

SWMS helps!

Helping Haiti

2010-01-14T20:37:00.009-09:00

In 1964 Alaska was hit with a 9.2 earthquake (click here to see image), which more than 100 time stronger than the quake that hit Haiti. Seward was devastated by the quake. The ground shook for over 4 minutes and a series of seven tsunami hit the town. I have friends who were here then and they have told me about the fear and trauma and chaos. Haiti has always been a sad place and now I can't believe there is a sadder place on earth. I want my students to know that just because these people look different, speak a different language and live far away, they aren't that different than us and we could easily be (and have been) in their place. I want to instill in then a sense of compassion and appreciation for humanity in all it's shapes, forms, religions and nationalities.

Phil and I are donating money to Doctors Without Borders to help with the staggering medical needs, which will grow in the coming days with the lack of clean water and the spread of disease.

Click on image below to learn about how you can help.

The Jumpoff

2010-01-14T19:55:00.003-09:00

Phil had to work day shift all day yesterday (12.5 hours) and then is back for a shift tonight. I am sure it is not healthy for him to work so many hours in such stressful conditions. I am looking forward to the day (4-6 years from now) when he retires (or at least goes to part time).

This weekend is the Polar Bear Jump Off, (click on the words to go to the Seward.com website and learn more) which is in it's 24th year. People from all over come in jump in the bay as a fundraiser for cancer. This year it will be pretty warm (around 35 degrees). My first year here it was close to zero and windy and it must have been brutal to jump in (I watched all bundled up from the top of the boardwalk).

Check out this youtube video of from last year to get an idea of what it is all about 2009 (click on 2009).

"The History of the Jumpoff

The first Seward Polar Bear Jump was held in 1986. Individuals dressed in costumes jumped into Resurrection Bay. Sponsors were acquired by the jumpers in order to raise money for the Alaska Division of the American Cancer Society. The event was so popular that buses were provided for a Anchorage-Seward-Anchorage trip on the day of the jump, with advance tickets selling out. Today, crowds continue to flock to Seward on the third weekend of January to join in the fun."

Driveway update

2010-01-13T20:37:00.001-09:00

We were able to get gravel put on our driveway on Monday, so now we can drive up and down the hill. We were supposed to get snow last night, but that didn't happen, so right now everything is okay.

Let there be light!

2010-01-13T18:21:00.004-09:00

I am so proud of myself.

My headlight went out and tonight I replaced it by myself. This wasn't an easy task. First, it was 28 degrees out. Second it was dark, so I had to use my headlamp to see. Third, Phil has taken my car manual to read (since his Forester didn't come with one), so I didn't have any directions. I looked under the hood and it wasn't obvious what to do, so I got on the internet, did a search and found some basic advice.

Unfortunately, for me, it was the driver's side headlight so I first had to remove the battery. I wrenched something in my back this morning, so lifting out the battery was not fun. Once that was out I couldn't figure out how to get the light clasp unhooked. There was a rubber sleeve over the light casing and I didn't know I could just peal it off (I subsequently found that out). I finally managed to get the light in and then the really struggle began--getting the battery back in, seated properly and clamped down correctly. It took three attempts (but no swearing, since Quin was out with me), but I finally got everything reconnected and viola, there was light!

I am very proud that I was able to accomplish this on my own (Phil was going to do it, but he is such a procrastinator that I figured it would be summer before he would get to it and by then I wouldn't need the headlights any more). I know it is a small thing, but I feel empowered.

Quin and I admiring our rings

2010-01-09T22:26:00.004-09:00

Of course mine is from Phil, in white gold, and has 3/4K in diamonds, while Quin's is from Aunt Jo Ann and tends to the plastic heart, fake jewel style that is so popular with the up and coming three year old set.

We each love our rings and are both clearly loved and do dearly love the giver. Thank you both. I really hope we can swing a wedding with my aunt and twin sister and family coming up and Phil's family coming up. We don't want a big elaborate do, but we do want our family and closest friends to be able to share with us and amaze in the fact that Phil, the self-identified hermit, is now in love and is getting married to love of his life and the mother of his most beloved little girl, who simply adores her Baba. Today she told him he was a most splendid friend.

The hill claims another victim

2010-01-09T20:51:00.006-09:00

Today is errand day and Phil is off work (he's actually on-call, but at least he is at home). We have to haul our own trash to the dump (really it is just a transfer station) and Phil decided to drive my car up our icy driveway in order to load the bags. Apparently he only got half way up before he slid back down. It was warm all day yesterday and above freezing this morning and the hill is even slicker than before.

So Phil parks my car at the bottom off to the side and decided to drive the trash down in his car. Quin and I were going to meet him at the bottom, but when I went out the door I noticed he was turned sideways, mid hill and then he turned around all the way backwards (like me on Thursday morning). I walked down and was able to push on the nose of his car in order to keep it straight while he slid the rest of the way down and managed to slide backwards out of the driveway.I put Quin in her toddler sled (with back support, strapped in) and we slowly went down the drive with me taking a few steps in my ice cleats and then lowering her down a few feet at a time. What a nightmare. We do have someone to gravel the drive, but he is out of town until Monday. Both Phil and I have studded winter tires, but they are no match for our hill and this ice. So for now we are lugging the groceries up via sled and Quin up via my shoulder (fireman carry) and hoping for either rain or snow, either of which will make the driveway passable again.Quin watching me through the widow as I am outside snapping pics. It is too slippery in the driveway for her to be out with me.

A year gone by

2010-01-08T17:56:00.004-09:00

It was one year ago today that I got the referral for Quin. The second we saw her file and her sweet face, we fell in love. I knew right away that we were supposed to be a family. I just can't imagine my life without her. Yes, the wait (over 3 years) was agonizing, but she was worth all that angst.

Here are two of her referral photos. What a joy she is!

We want our cold back

2010-01-07T20:36:00.006-09:00

It was 48 degrees today! 48! We want our cold back.

Last night is rained and our driveway became a rain slicked sheet of ice. The driveway is a steep hill with a curve onto the road at the bottom. This morning when Quin and I went to school the car started sliding right away. Halfway down the hill the car turned, sliding sideways and then finally totally backwards. Luckily I was able to stop us from hitting the berm at the bottom and we turned and slid our way out on to the road. I then proceeded to hyperventilate. Ugh, I hate the ice and I hate our driveway.

After school today I parked at the bottom of the driveway and Quin and I walked up to the house. I had on my ice cleats, but we don't have any kid sized cleats, so I basically had to hold Quin up as she kept slipping and slipping. Tomorrow morning we'll slowly make our way down in the dark, lit only by my headlamp. I am not looking forward to going down as it is was that exact thing that caused me to fall and fracture two vertebrae in my back a couple of years ago--I wasn't wearing ice grips then, though, and they really do help.

pictures of our driveway (from last winter and summer)

We need some snow and we need our cold.

I think it is so funny that schools in the Lower 48 are being called off due to temperatures in the teens. In Fairbanks the schools don't even consider calling off school until it is 50 below. I use to ride my bike to school at 20 and 30 below zero. And in King Cove (in the Aleutians) school wasn't called unless the winds were over 100 mph, which they often approached. We did have a one hour delay once when the winds ran about 90 mph and the roads were pure ice. I walked to school then.

I like the cold, but I hate this wet ice! This is the curse of living on the coast.

I hope all of you are staying warm and safe. Please send cold thoughts our way :)

Quin counts to 30

2010-01-06T18:14:00.005-09:00

Pants Head

2010-01-03T17:45:00.001-09:00

Quin is wearing both a pair of pants and a pair of shorts on her head.
She thinks it is the funniest thing to have pants hats.

2010-01-03T13:16:00.002-09:00

It is snowing today--beautiful, light fluffy flakes. Yesterday it was in the teens, but today, with the snow, it warmed to the upper twenties. Everything was starting to look a little dingy, so the new snow is welcome.

Quin and I go back to school tomorrow. I guess I am okay with going back, but right now I don't really feel like doing anything--which I supposed is fine on the last day of vacation. We had a nice break and really enjoyed Christmas.

Quin tells me she loves me all the time. She is very expressive. Yesterday, at lunch, she told me that I made her heart happy. How sweet is that!

I am happy.

Quin loves running to me

2010-01-01T18:06:00.003-09:00

Christmas morning

2010-01-01T13:50:00.009-09:00

Quin really loved her dress up clothes--thanks Aunt Jo Ann! She didn't actually know there were earrings and a ring in the bag until right at this picture when she noticed there was something in her purse.

Quin was very excited to open her presents!

Quin's Christmas party dress

2010-01-01T13:41:00.000-09:00

Happy Cativersary

2009-12-31T23:27:00.005-09:00

Pixel on the day I got her (below)

Pixel & me today!

Nine years ago on New Years Eve I went to the Fairbanks animal shelter and fell in love with Pixel, who I brought home with me. She is a sweet, talkative, energetic kitty and a great mouser. I am so happy to be her human.

What a difference a decade makes

2009-12-31T20:03:00.006-09:00

It wasn't until just a few days ago that I realized that this is the end of a decade, the first decade of this century. Back in 1999 I never could have imagined what and where my life would be now. Back then I was living somewhat listlessly in Sitka and on this night ten years ago I was flying back from visiting my family in Ohio (before my parent moved to AK) to spend the New Year's with friends. Just eleven months after that I moved from Sitka and started pursuing this new path.

In the last decade Io (my first kitty) and I moved to Fairbanks, I brought home Obsidian and Pixel (my 2nd and 3rd kitties), I went back to school and got certified as a teacher, spent a year living in a very small isolated village in the Aleutian Islands, moved to Seward to teach middle school math and science, bought my first house, met Phil, decided to adopt a child, traveled to Japan (twice in one year), sold my house, moved in with Phil (who was previously living in his trailer and at the boarding house in winter), lost 120 pounds, found out that I have a bicuspid heart valve that has mild stenosis (and may eventually require replacing), went to China, climbed the Great Wall, stood in Tienanmen Square, met my beautiful daughter, became a family and just recently, got engaged!In 2010 I look forward to visiting our families in the Lower 48, watching Quin continue to grow as this little amazing person she is, and getting married to Phil, my soul mate and love of my life.

Happy New Years to you all!

Last looks at 2009

2009-12-31T19:22:00.003-09:00

Quin's Happy New Year's Greeting

2009-12-31T19:15:00.003-09:00

My dad's work

2009-12-26T14:17:00.002-09:00

One of my dad's beautiful marquetry pieces

Homer Sledding

2009-12-26T13:50:00.006-09:00

On Wednesday we had fun playing in the snow at NaNa and YeYe's. Quin, mom and I went sledding down their driveway. Mom and I had a bit of a snow ball fight--we'll mostly we pushed each other into the snow and then I gave her a white wash (snowy glove in the face).

Then mom called for dad to help and he dumped a shovel full of snow on both of us. Quin pretty much stood back--she likes the snow (especially to eat it), but doesn't like it on her face.

Baking Cookies at Nana & Yeye's

2009-12-26T13:44:00.004-09:00

Quin, NaNa, YeYe and I made cookies while we were there. YeYe made the dough and rolled it out (w/Quin's help), Quin and I cut the shapes out and decorated them, and NaNa baked them. It was a fun afternoon. Quin was very excited to eat the cookies she made--NaNa and YeYe made other cookies, but Quin only picked her own sugar cookies.

Visiting the Rents

2009-12-20T13:10:00.002-09:00

Quin and I are over in Homer. We had a pretty good drive on the way over (even though Quin needed to stop to use the bathroom every hour or so). The weather has been overcast for the past few days, but it warmed up to right around freezing, so it it not so bitter. The sky and sea are both a leaden gray, which is very typical of winter here in Alaska. It will definitely be a white Christmas as about five more inches of snow fell yesterday.

Quin is having a great time with Ye Ye and Na Na. She loves having all the adult attention--I do as well. Yesterday they were working at the gallery where they have their art, so Quin and I visited them there in town before driving up the hill to their house. The view from here is stunning--mountains, ocean and glaciers. Even though we grew up in Ohio, it feels so much like home here.

Break Time!

2009-12-18T20:26:00.004-09:00

Finally, it is winter break! I am definitely in need of some time off. Tomorrow morning Quin and I are driving to Homer for a few days at my parent's house. Phil is working most of the next week, so he can't come. We'll return on Christmas Eve, Phil's first day off. He is on call on Christmas, but hopefully there won't be any problems. Phil says there usually aren't any major issues on Christmas until the evening...

It is really cold out--3 degrees right now and a little windy, which sends the chill right to your bones. We have lots of extra layers for the car, so we should be okay for the drive. This house is poorly heated and insulated and when it is cold like this it is hard to keep it warm in here. Right now the inside temp is 63 and that is with the furnace cranked up to 77 since two this afternoon. At least it is getting close to bed time so I can snuggle under the covers for warmth.

Quin's one line in the play

2009-12-18T17:31:00.002-09:00

First School Play

2009-12-17T21:02:00.008-09:00

Quin was Mary in her first ever school play. She had one line (as did all the other kids). It wasn't much of a production as some of the kids wandered off or ran to their parents, but Quin did her part and was very cute in her costume.

Here she is singing Jingle Bells.

Dressing Up for Spirit Week At School

2009-12-17T20:13:00.004-09:00

Last week was spirit week. I was the only teacher to dress up all the days-- a few others did one or two days. The principal, who instigated the entire thing didn't even dress up once, including the last day which was school colors/crazy hat day. I had fun, though, and the kids liked it.I had a peace symbol drawn on my face, but you can't see it in this picture.

2009-12-14T19:34:00.008-09:00

Saturday we drove to Anchorage to go Christmas shopping. We stayed up there over night. I think we did a good job controlling ourselves and not buying everything we saw for Quin. We got her a mix of educational and fun toys without going overboard.

Today after school Quin was coloring and cutting (her new favorite thing). She is very serious/focussed when she is engaged in an activity and it was hard for me to get her to even look up at me and the camera.

Only three more days of school left (Friday is an inservice, which means no kids!). This weekend Quin and I are going to my parents for a few days, but we'll be back home for Christmas.

Quin's new stocking.

Wheels on the Bus

2009-12-08T20:08:00.001-09:00

Quin just learned this.

Dancing Queen

2009-12-08T19:42:00.003-09:00

The light is a little low and you can't hear the music, but Quin is still cute!

Because I moved the computer, I didn't have my mouse and had to get on camera turning it off...

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star

2009-12-08T19:28:00.003-09:00

I know she has sung this before, but this time it is on her own.

Row row row you boat

2009-12-08T19:18:00.003-09:00

Quin really likes singing. We sing a lot. I need to teach her some more songs, though.

Quin talking

2009-12-08T18:55:00.004-09:00

Quin likes to dance

2009-12-08T18:35:00.003-09:00

Quin gets lost in my hat

2009-12-08T18:28:00.003-09:00

fUNNY pICTURES OF qUIN

2009-12-08T18:24:00.004-09:00

Quin got her H1N1 booster shot today, so we are all now covered.
Here she is acting silly.

Our Tree

2009-12-06T17:09:00.003-09:00

Happy St. Nicholas Day

2009-12-06T09:07:00.006-09:00

Today is St. Nicholas Day!

My dad's side of the family is German and we always celebrate this tradition. On the 6th w e get our stockings from St. Nick, usually with an orange, nuts, chocolate and a small present. I know most people get their stockings on Christmas, but I like this much better. St. Nicholas day is like the kick-off to Christmas...it builds the anticipation of all the presents and the holiday season.

So this morning Quin got her first stocking. She was the most excited about the chocolate, which we are rationing out slowly. Quin wanted to eat her orange for breakfast and made a point of sharing it with me--very sweet!Yesterday we bought a Christmas tree and today Quin and I are decorating it. It is way too big, but Phil wanted a big tree for Quin's first Christmas. It is so much fun sharing this time of year with her.

1826 days

2009-11-28T19:26:00.001-09:00

Five years ago today Phil and I met for the first time. A mutual acquaintance thought we would have a lot in common and hooked us up—just as friends. That first night Phil and I went to dinner and then sat at my house talking for hours and hours. Even though we have lived such different lives, Phil and I found our soul mates that night—it just took Phil a while to realize that.

Here we are, five years later, living together and raising this beautiful, intelligent, caring little girl. Phil is still not quite sure how he ended up on this path, which is certainly one he never expected, but this is the life now that he fully embraces, with joy (and perhaps still a little trepidation).

Swine Flu, Day Seven

2009-11-28T12:58:00.002-09:00

Sunday, Day 1: Awoke with massive back pain--thought I had pulled several muscles. Used the heating pad all day. Started to get cold symptoms by the evening (thought I caught Phil's cold).

Monday, Day 2: Felt miserable. Very achy (back, head) and coughing. Went to school to hold the fort until the principal could find me a sub. Went home around 9 a.m. and went to bed. Slept on and off all day. Phil picked up Quin and got provisions at the store. Started to run a low grade fever. Body aches increased, as did the feeling of chest compression. Diareah began in the early evening.

Tuesday, Day 3: Fever around 102 all day. Diarrhea all day. Chest congestion/tightness continue, along with intense body and head aches. Difficulty sleeping. Did not get up all day. Phil got Quin up, took her to school, picked her up, made dinner, read to her and tucked her in--no mom time from me at all.

Wednesday, Day 4: Went to the doctor for pain medicine and cough medicine. Had a chest x-ray to make sure lungs are okay, since a little short of breath. Pain medicine helped a lot. Can finally get around the house and sit up with the family after dinner.

Thursday, Day 5: Still feeling achy, coughing continues, but diarrhea finally done. Phil sleeps most of the day. I watch Quin and nap when she naps. Thank you pain medication, without which I would not be functioning. We had dinner around 6:00. Phil prepared the food and it was pretty good. Still having problems sleeping at night.

Friday, Day 6: Phil has to work at night, so I am on my own with Quin, she gets up at 6:15 this morning (why?!?). She spends an hour watching Blues Clues (a rare treat) while I rest on the sofa. The aching is a little less, so I cut the pain meds in half. I have a scare in the morning as I find myself not getting enough air. I wake Phil up and he brings his stethoscope and listens to me breathe and says my lungs are okay, which is good. He thinks I am dehydrated, so I drink more liquids, which is basically all I have been doing for the past week. I have tea and it helps. Today the nasal drainage begins and coughing, though not constant, grows in intensity. Luckily Quin (and thus I) has a 3 hour nap in the afternoon, which really helped me survive the day.

Saturday, Day 7: Doing okay today. Coughing and running nose continue as do mild body aches and occasional headaches. Quin woke up early (4:30) and proceeded to cry on and off for 30 minutes because she wanted it to be time to get up. Finally she cried herself back to sleep and slept until Phil came home around 7:45, which was nice. We have had a pretty good day so far.

The doctor thinks it will be about another week until I feel like I have energy and don't get short of breath. I don't know if I will be up to school on Monday--we'll see how tomorrow is. I think a solid day of rest (with Quin at school) might be a good plan so that I can survive the rest of the week at school. Teaching takes a lot of energy (at least my kind of teaching does).

A word of advice from someone who has been there: GET VACCINATED!

In The News

2009-11-28T12:52:00.003-09:00

This week my brother Chris was in their local paper and I was mentioned in my local paper. Chris (and my parents) own Kachecab, a taxi company in Homer. Homer is next to Kachemak Bay, hence the clever name of Kachecab (which she got wrong in the article).

Article about Chris & Kachecab in the Homer Tribune

Article from my students in the Seward Phoenix log

We survived!

2009-11-28T12:42:00.009-09:00

Here are some Thanksgiving pictures.
Phil (with his cold) and I (w/swine flu) are a little worse for wear, but we muddled through.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T17:03:00.000-09:00

Too much snow!

2009-11-26T16:54:00.002-09:00

There's way too much snow. The highway between here and Homer is listed mostly as dangerous driving conditions. So Phil and Quin did not go over to Homer. They stayed here. The downside is that I have to take care of Quin while I am feeling worn out with the flu--the upside is that I have pain killers, my family here for Thanksgiving and I don't have to worry about them driving in dangerous conditions.

Ugh

2009-11-25T22:58:00.003-09:00

I have the flu, most likely H1N1. Quin and Phil have both been vaccinated and they haven't gotten sick. I had a sick student in my class last week and the kids got vaccinated, some with the live spray which causes them to shed a small bit of the virus for the first couple of days. The combination of the two, I think, made me sick.

I started to get achy on Sunday and then really got sick Monday. I went to school that morning until they found me a sub. I have been out of school since. Yesterday I got worse, temp around 102 all day. Today Phil took me to the doctor. I got some medicine for the pain and to help with the coughing. Hopefully I'll start to feel better soon.

We were all supposed to go to my parents for Thanksgiving today. Obviously, that didn't happen. Phil has to go back to work Friday night and works all weekend, so he won't be able to take care of Quin--he has been the primary care provider for both of us all week. The plan is that he takes Quin to my parents (3 hours away) tomorrow and she'll stay there for a couple of day to a week, depending on how I am doing, she is doing, etc.

On top of all this it has snowed about a foot in the past few days and a few more inches are expected over night. Not the best time for a long car drive. We'll gauge the situation in the morning.

I feel like I am going to pass out now, so I am signing off...

2009-11-20T18:13:00.005-09:00

Quin loves the kitties. They are good with her--very patient. She is always giving them kisses.Io (orange) and Obsidian (grey).