Sids' Awesome Adventure

new nieghbors, new kids

2011-05-19T20:44:00.000-07:00

we were so worried about sid and sophie meeting kids, reactions... now they all cry @ supper time when its time to go...thank you God for good neighbors.

2010-09-25T16:32:00.000-07:00

SIds first shot at organized soccer is tomorrow, so we went out and played on his future fields to give it a shot. He loves it !

These kids are awesome !

2010-09-23T07:04:00.001-07:00

We don't update much, cause we're always chasing them ... recent pictures:

Yes, Sophie has a booboo, and she's very sensitive about it. Just seeing this short clip of her playing on my lap she starts fussing about 'that bobo' in the video. LOL

Sid couldn't care less. :)

2010-07-07T08:35:00.001-07:00

Hi there J.E. !

September will be here so fast, congratulations :)

And a boy ? Sweeet.

I've kept your comment private, but only to hide your email address. Hope my email didn't overload you, and I hope you're finding GOOD information out there. You have our contact info, use it when you need it.

- Kyle

So proud

2010-06-09T16:05:00.000-07:00

some days we're just so proud. this is one of them. sid is potty trained, dances, sings, raps (yes raps), and loves red trucks. life is good. :-)

believe

2010-03-21T20:02:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we get it right, and find something that works. Sid needed a little confidence boost, transitioning to Sunday school, so we put his favorite train in his pocket. He was told to think about what thomas would do if he got upset or confused, and remember we were close by, not to cry....

He was so proud and exclamed "I didn't cry daddy !"

I'm so proud of him. He's so awesome. Love you Sid. ... ... .......

mri and a day @ the birmingham zoo

2009-10-02T04:25:00.000-07:00

The mri went fine, and anesthesia wore off within an hour. Sid got an early discharge thanks to destroying 1.3 hospital rooms with all his kickin and screamin afterwards.

The zoo was awesome ! See our picasa page for the train ride loop on google maps.

Sid loves Fishin !

2009-09-27T12:30:00.001-07:00

Happy First Birthday Sophie !

2009-08-06T03:33:00.001-07:00

You're such a pretty girl. I love having you for a sister. Sorry about knocking you down. Love you !

xxooxxooxxooxxoo :)

Vroooooooooom !

2009-07-18T15:23:00.000-07:00

Sid went to the races today :)

Sid Shorts

2009-06-08T18:03:00.000-07:00

2009-06-07T19:46:00.001-07:00

WE're way way behind. Stuff is good here. Sid and Sophie say hello. Wine is good. We just finished some. More.

:)

Weeeeeeeee

2009-05-15T15:56:00.001-07:00

2009-04-03T05:11:00.000-07:00

Welcome, new Birmingham Parents

2009-03-10T18:02:00.000-07:00

We understand there are some new parents in Birmingham. We have only 2 years experience with this, but have tons of links, answers, and advice if you like. Please, leave a comment for contact, and we'll keep it private to the rest of the world.

We would really like to help, however we're able. Christie has medical experience I won't go into here, is an awesome organizer, a great mom, and does not judge people. Our Nana (Christie's mom) is also guiding us with how to raise our children, and we're grateful for her.

Do not be afraid, you are not alone in this.

- SId's dad, Kyle :)

Growing up too Fasssssst

2009-03-08T17:18:00.000-07:00

Couldn't wish for a prettier day. As the moon was rising, Sid had to have one more spin...

Affectionate Sid

2009-02-28T03:22:00.000-08:00

Sophie tends to like watching anything/everything Sid does. He's so affectionate towards her. He sings to her, carries towwwwies to her, dances around her as she watches. So cool to see them getting along so well. Man it's fun to watch them grow :-)

Best places to sleep:

2009-02-01T03:35:00.000-08:00

Daddy's arms
Mommy's arms
Nana's arms
the big bed
a three ring circus

That's right, Sid fell asleep at the circus ! We had about 20 minutes left to the show and he just couldn't stand it anymore. He needed a nap, and took it. Must have been some interesting dreams ;)

Hey Sophie, love ya !

I heart Mcwane

2009-01-18T12:52:00.001-08:00

Daddy took me to play at the Science Center and we had a blast. Then on to the park this morning. I'm too sleepy to type more, so I'll just snore a while now :)

2009-01-03T15:27:00.000-08:00

I have this aunt, that lives in florida, and i like to kiss her...

Man we're busy !

2008-12-29T17:21:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving, Christmas, and daddy said something about getting a 'new' year sometime soon. I can't keep up !

I found a new play mate...

fall fun outside

2008-11-02T08:46:00.000-08:00

Sid's doing very well now that the casts are off. Spent yesterday playing in the yard. Marie brought Jack over, what a blast ! Hopefully those fingers will heal fast and we can get on with the rough housin ! :)

From fall fun

You -really- have to keep an eye on Jack. One second he's playing on the bike, next he's climbing the house !

From fall fun

Orange

2008-10-19T04:49:00.001-07:00

It's that time of year again :)

From Pumpkin Patch 2008

You know that feeling-

2008-10-09T08:08:00.000-07:00

like you've been gone on vacation, and now you're home ? Well, we skipped the vacation part, and are home. Great to be here.

Pictures !

From Drop Box

We tried a different approach to pain management, and it's working very well. Christie asked for and was given a prescription for something a little different. Apparently it's working. :)

We've been home a little over an hour, our fridge is full, the house was warm, the dog fed and happy. Thanks you guys, it's so nice to be home !

(See Sophies' blog for a treat) ;)

Ten and Ten !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-10-07T17:30:00.000-07:00

Sidney, losing the battle with Goofy Juice:

Send em all

2008-10-06T09:42:00.000-07:00

all your prayers, wishes, and hopes for healing without pain.

Sid will begin his second syndactily release tomorrow morning. We're enjoying him today, tomorrow will not be fun for any of us.

Thanks First Baptist, you pray every week for us, thanks friends, family, strangers that send your best.

- Sid's family. :)

Fun places

2008-09-28T16:27:00.000-07:00

We sure did have fun in Mississippi. Good food, good animals to watch, good animals to touch (they didn't move much though) and lots and lots of play time.

Rainy days and BBQ

2008-09-20T19:46:00.000-07:00

Today Jack came over to play. We had fresh peaches, apples, and awesome bbq. There is a rumor I have a little sister, but daddy doesn't take many pictures, something about changing diapers, chasing kids, and falling asleep getting in the way.

Had a blast today, need more Saturdays like this !

Firsts again

2008-09-07T14:02:00.000-07:00

Sophie sent ya here, I know. I slept through my first Sunday service, really good sleepin at that place. I like it !

Then we went to Oak Mountain State Park. Daddy used to race bikes there, it's pretty cool... all except life preservers. I don't care for them at all !

Anyone recognize these people ? Ya, figured you would. Thanks for stopping by Jack & Jack's mum, we had a blast ! We'll stock extra SANKA for mum next time ! ;)

eight, thirty one, two thousand eight - TWO!

2008-08-31T05:08:00.000-07:00

Apparently waking up to a flaming piece of cake doesn't bother toddlers to much. Eventually they come around to the idea, cram some in their pie hole, and smile a little.

Tradition started :)

Happy BIrthday Sid, love ya son.

Pay attention dads...

2008-08-08T20:37:00.000-07:00

Take a good look at this picture, then we'll get started (you can click it for a bigger version):

Nana does so much for us. She watches Sid, helps, cleans, helps, advises sometimes (always correctly), and has been helping with all the family/friends coming to town. Today she got to finally stay with her new granddaughter for a while at the hospital, and I watched Sid for a change.

Still remember the picture ? Cool.

So Nana's at the hospital, I get Sid to myself most of the day...
We went home and played in the yard a while. Ate some left over pizza. Napped in the 'big' bed together. Then went for milkshakes and on to the hospital. It was around 4pm and the time of day for being outside. We took one of Sid's new yellow balls outside to kick around. Nice and sunny, not a cloud in the sky. Maybe 85 degrees. The grass is just dry enough to crunch under our feet.
He was getting a little hot so he wanted to sit down a while. Wind was blowing, crepe myrtles were shedding their blooms. Perfect sky. Then he said "lay back Daddy" and climbed onto my chest to watch them fall. Couple of planes flew overhead. He loves planes.

Now, do you remember the picture ? OK, go look again. He opened that window by himself. He reached for the round rocks on the roof. Those crepe myrtles were the ones we just played under. Those hills are the ones we drive over to get home and back.

Remember the picture ?

How old is my Sid ?

Where'd the time go ?

OK, I'm paying attention now, Sid.

I'm a big brother !

2008-08-06T15:36:00.000-07:00

Meet my little sister, she's awesome ! http://sophiasawesomeadventure.blogspot.com/

Fun

2008-07-17T09:12:00.000-07:00

Sid's really enjoying his new yard. Seems like he's learned the floor plan of the house finally too. (The bruises on his face from all the falls are almost gone now) Nothing like watching your kid play in the sprinkler for the first time. He loves the space, loves the yards, loves the trees. Got a little sniffle this morning, maybe Jack's helping out Sid's immune system now too ! ;)

Just a couple of pictures but he's making more by the minute :)

:-)

2008-07-09T09:36:00.000-07:00

Kissed the old place g'bye...

Tromped around in the new yard...

Love the park close by ! Trees ! Turns ! Hills ! Woo Hoo !

Some of the Best

2008-06-24T09:33:00.000-07:00

... people are the ones you never expected to meet. Sid's Easter Seals teacher is one of those people. We never expected a need during Christie's pregnancy, and were surprised just how much fun the education was. Lots of pointers, lots of help, lots of observations.

This one fantastic lady will remain nameless to the internet, but hold several happy memories for us, and Sidney.

Thank you so much Teacher, your efforts, patience, kindness, and genuine care. You have rewarded us so much, and inspired us to do more with Sid. We'll hope he can benefit from many more Teachers that try as you do to make children's lives richer, fuller, and easier.

- Us :)

Moving

2008-06-19T05:32:00.000-07:00

Yep, we're moving to the Steel City. Sid doesn't know it yet, but he's going to have a big back yard, big living room, and his own bathroom soon. Our friends and family there have been so helpful. Sid's Aunt Dawn did all the leg work, evaluated locations, background, etc. She's awesome. Sid's Aunt Carol and uncle Dave have been so understanding. Letting me beat the old Toyota into shape in their driveway, store tons (no, really!) in their attic, and watching Sid all the while.

What would we do without help ? Got me.

Jack & family, we'll be there to bug you before ya know it. Happy belated (what a month now ? sorry buddy!) birthday, miss you buddy, see ya real soon !

Learning fast, so fast !

2008-06-19T05:26:00.000-07:00

We're beginning to realize we're going to need some help soon. Sid's counting to 5, and knows the difference between 1,2, and three now. He can count to 10, but it's not really solid yet. Using two hands to count to 10 means he may start over with 1,2,3 etc so we know we need to work on that.

Also we're more into order than the actual differences in numbers. Mrs. Kathy (fantastic lady, going to miss her terribly when we move) has pointed out that things need to be FUN, not just learning. We're catching on.

The realization that we know absolutely nothing about teaching, let alone teaching a toddler has come. Gotta look into some tutors or more books I guess.

Sentences !

2008-06-12T15:55:00.000-07:00

Sid's first couple of sentences were this week. Today's was: "I want more bubbles!"

This stuff is great.

He's also learning how to call someone's name loudly to get their attention. FUN !

Trigger

2008-06-07T19:08:00.000-07:00

Whoa boy, whoa. Good boy, now, let's agree not to hurt each other...

Somebody had a baby..

2008-05-29T14:26:00.000-07:00

Sidney has a new cousin as of 5-28-2008. Cooper was born weighing 8 lbs 4 ozs. We're so excited for my sister and her family. She's doing well, as is her husband. It won't be long till the kids can play together, but we're 1200 miles apart right now. :(

Hiya Cooper !

Casts Away, not a party

2008-05-15T07:13:00.000-07:00

This is just one family's experience, EACH CHILD IS DIFFERENT:

We had these happy thoughts about the casts coming off, Sid being amazed, and everything being peachy. Then we talked to our friends about it, and learned it's painful, traumatic, stressful, and just not fun for anyone. Our friends were right, and we're glad the first 'Casts Away' moments are over.

Parents, each kid is different, but please know the images will not be pretty, clean, or nice. We'll only show the dressings here, friends and family will get pictures in their email boxes and on our picasa page, CLICK HERE. If we missed you, it happens. We love you all, appreciate all the prayers for us, and SIdney, and thank you very much for thinking about us the last few weeks. It means so much to us.

This is as graphic as the blog is going to be:

Tomorrow

2008-05-14T08:44:00.000-07:00

Has it been three weeks already ? Sid's adapted to the casts, not quite as cranky as post-op, and generally in a good mood, even though he still can't walk or use his hands. Do we really have to change all that now ? You betcha. Can't wait for those casts to come off and reveal the new apparatus to play with ;)

Mood : skeered, anxious, anticipating :)

Weened

2008-05-08T17:33:00.000-07:00

it's been a week, and sid doesn't have a need for milk anymore. growing up too fast !

SId is BACK !

2008-05-06T17:04:00.000-07:00

Today we saw the neurosurgeon from our local craniofacial team. Sid didn't appreciate the questions, the prodding, or much of the visit. He's definitely back though, just like before the separartion surgery. Smiling, laughing, rough housing. All that fun stuff. Today he was a blast. Watching his personality come out again is so much fun.

We're throwing a "Cast Away" party for him in one more week. It will be so cool to have those casts off, the yucky fingers at first, then him walking, running, signing again. :D

This separation is the hardest thing Christie and I have been through. :(

The rewards will be Sids though, and hopefully he won't remember any of it. :)

2008-04-28T17:17:00.001-07:00

Sid's First Separation

2008-04-24T16:15:00.000-07:00

Sid now has his "Spock" right hand and foot, and his index and pinky free on his left hand and foot. The surgery went well, he's sleeping for now. Lots of pain and agrevation afterwards, which was expected. We cried about a dozen times today. Here's the rundown:

400 Sid woke up, played/snuggled
530 We left for the hospital
630 Started the pre-op stuff
700 Goofy Juice
730 Yep, he was full on goofy, time for kisses and bye byes.
various phone calls to his wonderful nurse Ann. (hope I've spelled her name right)
1230 or so, all done, into recovery, lots of tears. :( my buddy hurts.
various stuff happens, lots of crying, my buddy hurts...
1822 he's sleeping well for now, mozart on the cd player, lights down low.

Did I mention we cried allot today ? We're happy he's on his way to fingers, so sad he hurts, all those things you troopers already know.

We're so thankful for all the doctors, nurses, techs, cnas, and all the other folks that work REALLY HARD to make kids days easier.

We're also thankful for the our Apert Family, all the hopes, prayers, wishes, and gifts. Christie, Sid, and +1 are my everything, my hopes, dreams, and prayers. Our extended family from these so called 'birth defects' are some fantastic people. We can always count on you for encouragement, joy, testimony to real life, and great journeys to happiness.

Thank you all so much, please know every single thought you think of us helps.

Jack, we left your gift at home in the rush. We'll definitely put it to use when we get back. Love you man. :)

Olivia, you and Emilia are so much fun. Thank you for the balloon, camera tips, and smiles. You've done so much for our spirits.

Everyone else, we'll catch up with the listserv at some when we get home. Thanks thanks thanks. You give so much love, we're in debt to you now.

And here are the pictures. (some are from the operation, request, and we'll share by email)

Prayers and Wishes

2008-04-21T17:52:00.000-07:00

Thank you everyone for your hopes, wishes, prayers and help. Dr. Fearon will begin Thursday morning. Our little boys' hands and feet will be forever changed when he's done. Bittersweet.

Today:

First Haircut

2008-04-15T13:07:00.001-07:00

Lettuce Lake Park

2008-04-10T15:29:00.001-07:00

Todays installment will be written by Sid, since daddy is still sleeping...

Mommy and Daddy took me to Lettuce Lake park today. It's not far away, only 5 songs on the big fast road. When we got there we ate samiches and I painted with my daddy tea. Mommy cleaned up my blanket painting, didn't really care for it I guess. We took some pictures and cuddled, but daddy looked like he needed a nap. Me and mommy hoped he'd sleep most of the afternoon so he wouldn't be grumpy, and played on the playground. It was hot. I got my first bloody nose, but no one noticed until later. We woke up daddy and then took the wagon out on the boardwalk. The shade was nice, so was watching the helicopter and egrets fly by from the tower. Daddy's sleepy feeling is like the flu, and I caught it next. We got in the car and the next thing I knew we were home. Daddy must have driven really really fast cause I don't think I fell asleep. Mommy sure does give nice hugs when she gets me out of my carseat. Grandpa called me on the skype thing, and I showed him I can dance to the music. He's cool. Suppers over, so I need to romp around outside some more. Man what a day. Oh, and I showed mommy what an "Oak Oak" tree is. They're big, and make daddy sleepy. Ba Bye !

Nursery Rhymes

2008-04-09T17:45:00.000-07:00

Sid's first nursery rhyme is "Row Row Row Your Boat", and he's pretty good at it. He's playing more by himself, picks up a couple of signs and words a day, and just allot of fun.

He's mastered 'bubbles and balloon' lately. We don't keep up with it as we should - so much going on.

Less than two weeks till Dallas !

The Cuteness

2008-04-06T19:36:00.000-07:00

what can I say, we have 10,165 images in iPhoto now. we love pictures !

Stunt for the Kids 2008

2008-04-06T19:15:00.000-07:00

tampasportbikes.com put on a nice benefit for kids this weekend. we volunteered to help out with the few things we could do and had a blast. lots of noise, lots of smoke, lots of bikes and smiles. raised some money, and had a blast doing it. only one downside - sunburns !

Today's new signs

2008-03-27T18:29:00.001-07:00

Play, yes, music- we didn't get much done today. We sure did have fun though. :)

Mmm, ok, "yes" was yesterday's new sign, but we liked it allot and practiced a bunch.

Today's new signs

2008-03-26T17:20:00.000-07:00

Yes, kiss, sleep, milk. That's all for now. We're loving it.

Soccer, Steps, and Standing Up :)

2008-03-25T13:50:00.000-07:00

Sid finally stands up unassisted. He's been working on it for a little while. This morning he finally did it all by himself a few times. No crutch, no help, just up up up. Yay. Steps ? Ya, the transition is really smooth now. Not quite second nature, but getting there. Soccer ? We'll see. He only lasted an hour or so before it was nap time again. Rough day for a 19 month old ;)
link to all the pictures on picasa (there are a bunch)

Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeaster

2008-03-23T16:32:00.000-07:00

Nah, not really, just Easter. :) He likes chocolate, that's for sure. Stuff is good.

Mixed bag tonight :-)

2008-03-12T17:24:00.000-07:00

Sid has started turning books right side up when they're upside down. Something about this is developmental, but it's really cute too. :)

He's starting to clap a little.

He finally signs 'help', and 'swing' pretty good.

Today was a shot day @ the doctors office. We found out he has a hernia. More surgery. We're going to try and do this while he's already sedated for the first separations in dallas. No idea if it's feasible yet. Wishing our lives away with wanting surgeries 'over', but we still want them over.

Sid talks to his little brother/sister through Christie's tummy. It's cute. OK, it's really funny, seeing a kid YELL into a naval.

I haven't written in Sid and +1's journal in over a week. I'm slipping.

What else is he doing ? Starting to stand unassisted, jumping a little, and he dribbled a beach ball today. Ya. That was freaking cooooooooool. We were all ecstatic.

Christie's childhood rocking chair:

So much love:

Yuck.

2008-02-29T20:07:00.000-08:00

Sid has a mild fever, tons of snot, and doesn't feel like talking. :(

What do you see ?

2008-02-25T16:50:00.001-08:00

Sid just had his bath, and was sitting on the couch with Christie, his hair is still wet:

You all know Brown Bear is Sid's favorite book. Now when we point to the bear, Sid says "Brown ! Bear !"

Weeeeeeeeeeeeee this is so much fun :D

Dallas and pockets

2008-02-24T10:57:00.000-08:00

Anyone that knows us, knows we've waited a long time for a surgery date. We're very excited we can expect Dr. Fearon to do his best soon. It's bittersweet knowing we'll no longer have Sids 'old' hands anymore. Imprints are something we're working on now. We're booking a flight tonight. Woo hoo !!!

Sid also learned he has pockets today, and somebody puts vanilla wafers in them... mmm...

My blue eyes

2008-02-20T19:23:00.000-08:00

Sid's growing up so fast. Hey Jack, get well soon !

:)

2008-02-15T07:17:00.000-08:00

Sid's catching on to a few things. He's learning knees, tummy, eyes, nose, teeth (loves counting his teeth), tonge, feet, hands, thumbs, hair, ears, and occasionally he'll sign daddy.

Oh, and he's starting to sleep 3 hours at a time in the morning. Not always, but sometimes. Cool. :)

Good Report

2008-02-06T16:05:00.000-08:00

( The last CT scan was a very unpleasant experience, after only being under with gas temporarily, and then stuck 12 times for an IV which left him screaming for two hours. )

Sidney had a optical exam under anesthesia today. It went very well. This time, we specifically asked he NOT be given an IV until he was completely sedated by GAS, if an IV was needed at all. After we explained the last experience to the anesthesiologist and the ophthalmologist, they understood and things went well.

No pressure on his optic nerve now, and what we thought was a dermoid turned out not to be. It's simply scar tissue, from an abrasion while he was in the womb. Still haven't figured out how that happens, but OK. There was some pressure on his optic nerve at some point, and some damage, but the doctor wasn't concerned. He stressed there was -not- current pressure, and even spelled it out N-O-T to make sure we understood things were good. He's concerned about the patching we're doing, and we had to press him for his personal opinion of proper patching and optical correction for astigmatisms. It's really cool to hear the amount of respect doctors have for each other's opinions of treatment. We had to press him a little to get what he thought was the best method, and even then he said it's something debated allot. He seems a very modest man, and has an excellent bedside manner. I'm leaving his name out of the blog because of google caching, and we're sure he has all the work he can handle. ;) Email us for more if you like.

Sidney is learning to take steps one at a time. He gives kisses, and hugs. He's learned this week how to put the top on a bottle and then screw it on. Cool stuff.

Sidney seems to be becoming aware of his hands. We're not sure if he's noticed his are different (or all ours are wrong ;-) ) but he's holding them close for inspection and looking them over front to back. It's really neat to watch, ya, we're still new parents, and diapers are neat for us still. :)

Stay tuned, we'll have more stuff soon.

Oh, and thanks to you guys in Meridian, Mississippi. Your friendship and generosity are so much appreciated. Your girls are growing up so fast and beautiful. Thanks for all the memories, prayers and kindness.

Hey Jack !

2008-02-04T16:44:00.000-08:00

You guys need a vacation now... oops, that means more travel, right ?

Welcome home buddy

- Sid :)

Those darned Paparazzi !

2008-02-03T04:08:00.000-08:00

( Today's installment will be written by Sidney with the aid of Ceasar )

I've doing OK lately. I have my own bed now, cause mommy and daddy are still learning how to share things, like their big comfy bed. It's OK, I kind of like being able to roll over twice without bumping into someone. If I wake up in my bed, I can just sit up and play with toys until someone decides to make breakfast.

I had a few photo shoots again this week. They went well, and some good stills were taken. Someone leaked my location to those darned paparazzi and they attacked me ! As you can see in the first photo I was having a good day with the flash and all. My stylist is still M.I.A., but I've been told someone will handle the duties soon. In the second picture you can clearly see my exasperation at that I was -CLEARLY- done with the shoot, but the pap's just kept on firing away. Can they ever get enough ? Sheeeeeesh !

Figuring things out

2008-01-31T17:46:00.000-08:00

It's really neat to watch kids figure things out. Sid likes to get to the bottom of how things work. He looks under cars, pushes dogs over, and topples chairs to see if all the legs go up at once. Lets hope something happens and he has a finger seperation soon. He's doing well now, but the surgery needs to be behind him so he can heal and move on. Check this out, he watched me twice, then did it:

Kids are weird

2008-01-27T16:33:00.001-08:00

What else can I say ? He's spinning the bicycle trailer's wheel, and happy.

Then he licks the wheel, WHILE IT'S SPINNING.

Kids really are weird. :)

Cousin Bryce's game

2008-01-26T16:46:00.000-08:00

Sidney had a good time at his cousin Bryce's soccer game today. He scooted around and stole soccer balls from everyone. Then he tried to join the game a few times. Nothing like getting a toddler out in the fresh air around 5pm.

This suggestion should be stamped on every box of diapers!

Melatonin, we love you

2008-01-21T14:53:00.000-08:00

We've had a little time with Sidney on melatonin at night. So far, it has done a very nice job of helping him sleep through the night. We're enjoying having a bed to ourselves too, as he sleeps in his own. One feeding around midnight seems to keep him content, and means mommy can sleep much better. Apparently daddy sleeps through everything anyway, so he doesn't really know how much has changed.

He's doing well as he's weened also. He's down to one session before bed, and one around midnight. He surprises us with what he can handle. The crying has lessoned, and we're paying more attention to what he wants, instead of just trying to ignore the crying. Seems to work.

This weeks word is 'light' and 'up up up'. :)

Doing much better now.

If I were a poet I'd write something beautiful to melatonin.

Another 2001

2008-01-11T02:10:00.000-08:00

2001 was a bad year for us. Basicly a bunch of stuff happened that wasn't positive. Here we are, 2007, same deal. Basically nothing has happened that is good so far, and we're only 10 1/2 days in.

Sidney is crying again. Imagine that. 16 months old and he's going to be screaming until he's 3 or 4, right ? Nothing like waking up at 11pm and listening to a toddler tantrum the rest of the night.

Medicaid/care/whatever won't approve any surgeries by competent, Apert experienced surgeons. The 'local guys' should be 'good enough' they say. Great, 2 or 3 fingers on a hand are enough instead of 5, right ?

Maybe we're not praying enough, no wait... TITHING enough, right ? If I just send $14 to some yahoo in Nebraska he'll pray for us, and our son, and everything will be ok. Sorry, haven't had a prayer answered in 35 years, and I'm spotting a trend.

I was going to say I was sorry for the negative energy, but I'm full of it, and I'm not.

2007-12-28T17:28:00.000-08:00

I give up. I tried to embed a google map for the last 20 minutes. Maybe tomorrow.

Sid meets Santa @ the Elks

2007-12-16T10:45:00.000-08:00

The Elks had a brunch for kids like Sidney at their lodge in Clearwater. Santa, Scooby Do and Bart Simpson were all there. The food was fantastic as were the folks. This organization really does allot for kids, and parents. We appreciate all their efforts and generosity very very much. Thanks guys, you do so much !

Christmas Cookies

2007-12-16T04:58:00.000-08:00

Sidney tried his hand at baking. Each cookie has his handprint, and is delicious of course. Man we're having fun !
This morning Santa is having breakfast with SIdney, then we'll go to the beach. Life is good. :)

Sidney meets his Great Grandpa

2007-11-24T15:21:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving flew by. SIdney met so many fine people (you know who you are) in Jamestown, New York, including his Great Grandpa Peterson. We ate and ate. Our friends visiting from Italy taught us how to 'think' between big meals. This was one fantastic gathering.

Next year we're doing it all over again, in an even bigger venue. We'll be celebrating Great Grandpa Peterson's 100th birthday and feasting for Thanksgiving. We can hardly wait.

Check our picasa site for more pictures and videos. :-)

2007-11-20T16:15:00.000-08:00

Sidney's First Flight went very well, aside the lost luggage.

Sidney is Walking !

2007-11-12T12:37:00.000-08:00

I don't think anything I can type will express how cool it is to see him walking. So I won't.

HalloweEEEEen

2007-11-02T15:25:00.000-07:00

Sidney finally got to Trick or Treat. He wasn't really feeling well for October 31st, cutting teeth and suffering the effects of a flu shot, so he waited until November. Fun !

What are these ?

2007-10-29T18:18:00.001-07:00

Sidney picked out his first pumpkin. He seems to know how to thump them and find the good ones. Pumpkin pie anyone ?

Visiting Friends

2007-10-16T19:32:00.001-07:00

We spent the last week visiting with folks in Chunky and Meridian, MS. A friend was married, family cooked for us, and we had a blast. Sid played and played until he fell asleep playing with people. He still likes the golfcart, still wants to fight sleep, and still outlasts us.

For all the pictures, you folks that care know where our picasa page is. Take a peek !

Visiting Mississippi

2007-10-13T12:23:00.000-07:00

Sid is having a blast in Mississippi this week. He's visited alot of his mom and dad's friends. Everyone COOKS when you visit here :)

That's my grandpa showing me plants and trees. He's pretty cool, you know, for an older fella ;-)

Sidney has glasses !

2007-10-04T13:19:00.000-07:00

We picked up Sid's glasses today. We're reading about how to actually keep them on his face now. ;)

I like kids. They're like adults that are fun.

2007-09-21T04:31:00.000-07:00

My parents have forgotten to update this online thing lately. Guess I'll do it myself. :)

When we were in Birmingham visiting Jack, daddy's big brother's wife's sister's kids needing someone to babysit them, so I obliged. They're good kids. They like to play LOUD and run around. I'm pretty good at yelling, but need to work on my running and imagining. Someone kept saying something about 'rough-housing' but their house was soft and smooth everywhere I touched it. The kids got a little quieter and didn't run as fast when one of the adults said 'rough-housing'. Guess the adults don't really know how to express themselves like we do.

We had alot of fun with their horse. He's named Jordan but mommy can't remember that part. She's stuck on calling him Taylor, which is kind of cute I guess. Daddy laughs everytime mommy gets it wrong. I try to act like I don't notice. Have you ever seen a big wooly horse that knew how to fetch pinecones ? He's pretty cool. Mommy and daddy say he's the biggest horse they've ever seen.

I took a few pictures of Jordan. Let's see if daddy remembers to paste them here.

Sid's visit to Jacks house

2007-09-12T13:21:00.000-07:00

We're a very fortunate family. We have a great deal of support from friends, family, and our new friends the Smiths. They were kind enough to let us visit their son Jack this past weekend. He's doing very well, and solid as stone. We thought Sid was a beefy kid until we picked up Jack for the first time. Sid feels like a baby again in comparison !

Jack shared his toys, swing, and even his very own computer. Keeping up with his roaming is sure to keep them busy. We were really surprised to see how quickly he gets around. Nothing is safe at 2 years we realized.

Take a peek at the pictures on our picasa page: Jacks House

We sure had a blast !

Sidney's first Birthday

2007-09-02T15:13:00.001-07:00

Yes, we had a blast. Sid was tuckered out and fell asleep in his present. See all the pictures here.

Where's daddy ?

2007-08-27T17:47:00.001-07:00

< today's post will be written by Sid >

Daddy didn't come home from work at the right time today. I listened and listened. Caesar perked up a couple of times, but they were false alarms. It's 3:30, and daddy is tardy ! Why are we going to Aunt Carols house ?

Daddy !

Hmm, so we're at Aunt Carols house, there's no hurricane, no trees fell that I'm aware of....

A birthday !?

Mine ?

No ? :-(

Aunt Carols ?! Aunts have birthdays too ? That's AWESOME ! I've got to come up with something especially cute for this occasion. Maybe I'll just hug her neck and pat her back... while I'm stealing her cake....

MMMMMMMmmmmm. Does she know sign language ? Woo hoo. She does ! MORE MORE !

Happy BIrthday Big Sis.

We love you.

Dad's first outing alone with Sid

2007-08-25T08:23:00.000-07:00

This morning I dropped Christie off at work around 6:45. Early Saturday mornings are a good time to do whatever shopping is required at the local WallyWorld. The only thing we buy there is dog food. Really.

I popped Sid's helmet on and we headed out. This was my first time to take him by myself. It's pretty odd once I thought about it. He's almost one year old, and we haven't been anywhere alone. The walmart tour was uneventful. He's unimpressed with the colorful toys. Same for the flashy signage and noisy TV displays. The PA system was equally annoying. Apparently the most impressive things at a big-box-store for an almost one year old are:

The gymnasium style lights, really high up there.
The downward blast of air upon entering the store for HVAC purposes.

Leap kept him happy on the way home, and we didn't see a point to ride around burning that high dollar gasoline for no reason. Couldn't quite get his helmet to fit proper either. Just enough room for a bottle in there, but he's having a little trouble holding the helmet up AND his bottle when we take turns on the suzuki.

He's quite happy to pull up on anything within reach, and likes to examine every single toy in his toy-box. Three examinations per toy seems to be his threshold for attention, then he's on to inspecting all things verticle. The sound of the sliding glass door impresses him, as he smacks it with an open palm.

There's Saturday in a nutshell. I really don't know where women get the energy to raise kids.

What's that ?

2007-08-12T16:10:00.001-07:00

< Today's post will be written by Sid >

Daddy's outside working on his truck. Mommy's grilling hamburgers, and Nana is playing tirelessly with me. It's been a pretty fun weekend. Just now I've decided to let the family know I can drink from a normal glass, so long as there is something fun in it. Fun means sweet and sticky, and the possibility of making other things really sticky. Like my clothes. My vibrating bouncy chair is a good thing to get all sticky too.

Speaking of diapers, mommy bought some really un-fun types lately. I had just perfected the task of squishing interesting bits of poo out of that last brand. You know how some brands work really really good for this, right ? Bah, these new ones are just no fun at all.

Think I"ll keep mommy up till about 9:30 tonight playing with all the cushions on the couch. They're really much more comfortable for me on the floor. Kinda silly to keep them all together when the floor is a much better play area.

Time to mention something interesting to daddy and see if he can figure out what I said. That guy, he's alright and all, he means well, he just doesn't get it sometimes. I'm obviousely screaming for him to pick up the BLUE block and put it in my bucket. The RED block is soooOOooo yesterday. Is he dense or what ?

Hello 7:30. Time for a bit of yelling and then a boobie break or two, just to keep mommy on her toes. She's a keeper.

Sids First Pool Play Time

2007-07-16T14:18:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we took Sidney for his first day at the pool. It was warm and sunny, and he was sweating after the short walk from our apartment. He kicked and cooed, splashed and smiled. He really likes to splash, and he really doesn't like to wear floaties.

He'll really enjoy going to Christie's uncles' house and playing in his pool next weekend! It's only 700 short miles away.

You can see the photos here.

Sidney Sidney !

2007-07-08T04:06:00.001-07:00

This morning someone finally said their own name. Bed hair, wrinkled t-shirt, and covers all around, "Sidney Sidney!"

Fireworks ? pffft - He's standing up !

2007-07-05T15:43:00.000-07:00

Yep, Sid's standing up unassisted for a few moments now. And dancing. And occasionally saying 'idney'. I guess the S takes a while.

Well hello there.

2007-07-03T18:02:00.000-07:00

Sid has managed to cut his first tooth ! His mom is so excited, and has told me a stern 'no sidney' is all it will take to prevent damaging her feeding bits.

Woo hoo !

Where's Sid ?

2007-07-01T04:04:00.000-07:00

Sid's started playing peek-a-boo now. And rolling to various vertical things around the living room. And pulling up on various things around the living room. And walking around said various things around the living room. Man, when does this parenting thing get easy ?

Sitting up and pulling up

2007-06-21T17:50:00.000-07:00

All systems go.

Welcome !

2007-06-20T17:53:00.000-07:00

We're Sidney's mom and dad, and we want to share a little bit of our lives. If you're looking for information about Apert, you would likely find better information on teeter's page (http://www.apert.org)

You can keep up with our pictures at http://picasaweb.google.com/kyledpeterson and there are additional recovery pictures for folks that request them.

We're on the listserve too - it's a great thing.