7.28.2005

Case Study

The Texas Dermatology Institute in Dallas is performing a study on pediatric patients who suffer from severe eczema. When the woman asked if Jenna was affected on 25% of her body, I laughed - YES. So, in two weeks we begin a study of a new medication for eczema. We could, of course, get the placebo, but we're hoping we get the real medicine and that it WORKS! We have to go off of our steroid creams for the next two weeks, and I'm a little worried. On one hand they don't seem to work anyway, and I know they are thinning her skin every time we use them, but then again, what if she gets worse and worse?

As for the derm. visit today, he gave us a new medicine which he called 'tar.' I have to check and see if that counts as a medication that we can't use for two weeks. He didn't seem very optimistic that allergies were the problem, but I just have a gut feeling (though a non-MD, I will admit) that it could be solved with a good allergy study on Jen. He was willing to try the Narrowband light therapy. Upon entering the "spaceship," Jenna was very excited, however, when the doors were closed, she screamed her head off. I'm willing to let her scream for 1 minute of therapy, but they weren't. He did give me the name of a derm. in Fort Worth who has the treatment, and he thought would be willing to "bend over backwards" to help.

I feel like all I do is whine about Jenna, and I realize there are kids with problems worse than hers, it just hurts me so much to see her suffer that I really can't express the pain I feel. I started crying when she wouldn't stay in the booth because I just want to try ANYTHING that will help. On top of that, Hudson has it. If you compare Jen's at his age with his, his is already worse, which just makes me sick to think about BOTH of them suffering with this!

On a lighter note, Lake Highlands Youth are here for a short mission trip while they go out and do servant evangelism to spread the love of Christ and promote StoneWater. It is great to see old faces and new, and share some time together. Of course, my favorite is having Mel here!

7.27.2005

Slobbery Kisses

In addition to my little man walking, he's now master of the most wet, tongue licking kisses in the world. It's sweet, but I can't help but cringe when he comes at me for a kiss...

Jenna is my precious princess, and we head to the dermatologist tomorrow morning for some ANSWERS! We saw Dr. Watts (actually for Hudson) today, and we talked about Jen. Her CBC was normal, except her immunoglobin was high - 1087. Evidently, that points out that she has some serious allergies (what an insight that no one has checked previously). She was interested to see what Gahli, the derm., says, and we may re-test her for allergies to see if we can pinpoint some things. When we had her tested a year ago, she was negative on milk and eggs. So, has she developed more allergies, or am I restricting her diet on a hunch? - see the predicament...

My new trailer home (my classroom) is coming along nicely. I dodge flying insects and laugh to myself. I will make it a cool place and enjoy the year in seclusion! It's going to be quite home and smell good in just a matter of days! I am quite excited about the job, and looking forward to rejoining the working world - it was good break last year,and I know I will miss part time, the kids, and being home, but I know that God has given me the right job and the right choice (just remind me of this in a couple of weeks, and again in January!)

7.24.2005

Never say Never!

"Jer, you'll never have a motorcycle." "God, thanks that I'll never be a church planter's wife."

These are two of my famous "never" statements that I have to laugh at from time to time. Well, I've found one that Jeremy will have to eat just as soon as my little car dies, "I'll never own a minivan."

Joey and Lisa were nice enough to let us use the minivan this weekend since we're picking my parents up from the airport this afternoon after church. It seems that our family of 4 and the parental units were not going to fit in the Protege (which, despite it's 120,000 miles is still hanging strong). I've never driven a minivan, but after a couple of excursions out in it, I really like it. There isn't any stooping down to put the kids in, and no bumping their heads on the way in. I like the power doors they have, and the neat little feature where the car beeps before you lock the door (couldn't lock Hudson in). It feels like my car and turns as well, too. I shared my excitement with Jer; he smiled and said, "It is really practical, but you wanted a hybrid." I hope they make a hybrid minivan in the next couple of years!

7.21.2005

Enough, Already!

The kids are enrolled at FBC Preschool, and the proper authorities have been notified that I accept the position at GHS. I am a teacher again. It was a brief hiatus, but I'm genuinely glad to be back in the game. I guess teaching really is in my blood.

Thank you to so many of you who have been praying and counseling us through this decision. It was one of the toughest decisions we've made in a while, and I am super glad it is over! We both have a true peace about the decision, and now we are focusing only on the positives!

Swim lessons were a bit more challenging with Jenna today. She was breaking out quite badly last night, so she got a big dose of Atarax. That always makes her tired and cranky for about 24 hours, so I got a lot of "no, no, no" with kicking and screaming. She didn't even do the slide alone today. When I did my Bible study today, she grabbed her Bible and crawled in bed with me. While I read, so did she (but I had to convince her to NOT color in her bible). It was really sweet when she layed her head on my shoulder and prayed, "God, thank you for healing me and heal my boo-boos."

Hudson has been a cranky tater for two days now. Yesterday and today I have surrendered and put him in bed at 5:30 - both days he has fallen asleep, and he sleeps even now. I guess it's all the mobility. The way he climbs, he probably climbs out of his crib at night, walks around, and climbs back in - ha ha. We played a good, long game of peek a boo today, with good cackles on his part.

Have a great evening!

7.20.2005

Growing Pains

At the end of swimming lessons everyday, the students (and parents) get to go down the big slide. It's a good water slide with a big loop. We get a lot accomplished since I use that as a motivation (or bribe, if you prefer). Well, today after we went down together two times, Jenna announced that she wanted to go alone. I was a little skeptical since it is quite large, and it put me in a delimma. Obviously I needed to be at the bottom so I could catch her, but someone needed to be at the top to help her get on the slide and know when to go. I took a deep breath, and told Jenna to go up by herself, secretly I figured this would freak her out, and she wouldn't go. She marched all the way up and stood at the slide, so I told her to get on (still expecting a scream and "no, no, no"). She sat down and went - I stood there for a second thinking, 'she'll start screaming and stop herself', when I saw her little head go by. I ran and jumped in the pool to catch her just in time. When she came out from under the water, she laughed, "AGAIN!" It hurt a little; I realized she doesn't need me to always hold her hand. So, three more times my little (big) girl marched up, waited in line, crawled up on the slide, and WHOOSH, came down to a big splash. I know she felt liberated, as did I, but I think I'm the only one who felt a little sad.

As for the job...you kow, my parents both worked, and I will, without a doubt, tell you that they raised me, not a daycare or a sitter. I remember once Michael was really unhappy at a daycare, and we changed to a place where we were both happy. I will tell you that they loved me and spent tons of time with me. Actually, I don't remember much before Kindergarten anyway. Financially, I don't think I understood what Jer meant when he said we could use savings this year when I didn't work. I was thinking a small fraction; he was thinking along the lines of using it all. It would require us to use it all if I stayed home, and I see that as a cushion that God has provided for times of EMERGENCY.

Jenna would thrive in the pre-school environment, as would Hudson Reed. It would be GREAT for the church on so many levels if I did work - as a working mother role model, financially (we would lower Jer's church salary), validity in the community, and knowing more people. So, today, so far the vote is another "yes."

I think I'm ready to just make a decision and move on.

7.19.2005

Precious Family

It becomes even more obvious how precious something is when you're thinking about giving it up. Not that I will actually be giving up my family, but I will be giving a lot of time up if I take this job. Today we checked out two daycares, and we decided on the one that would be great for the kids. As we left the director said something that I'm still pondering the significance of, "Junior English will always be there, but if you want us to raise your kids, we will be happy to." I almost burst out crying on the spot. I know she didn't mean it to hurt me, but I was thinking, "here's your knife back."

Mom and Dad left for Germany today. In my estimation they are somewhere over the Atlantic right now. They were very excited and pacing the house until they left. I'm really excited for them, but I'm still sad that I'm not on that plane as well. You can only go so long without seeing your younger brother before you really miss that silence between you (he's really quiet, so we mostly sit and enjoy each other's presence).

Little man Hudson barely crawls anymore - he's a full fledged walker. FBC (the daycare we have tentatively chosen) will probably go ahead and put him with the 1 year olds since he's walking, using a sippy, and is a little tough and rough. We know the woman who will be one of his caregivers, Crystal, because she is a member of our launch team. Jenna would be in the 3 year old class, because she's older (the cut off is Sept 1 for birthdates and the 7th is close) and she knows her colors, shapes, and some letters. We know she will LOVE it as they do music class, crafts, play, and learn. Her teacher would be a certified teacher who has taught 1st, 4th, and 5th grades.

Now, can Mom handle really leaving her little guys. They're only young once. We're trying to focus on what is best for the church (and the kids, of course). Being in the schools will really broaden our reach and credibility. But, right now tonight's vote for me is no - precious children don't stay little long.

7.18.2005

One vote, Yes

We are taking a nightly vote in our house if I go back to work...tonight's vote is "yes."

I had an interview this morning at Granbury HS for a Junior English position. I prayed so hard last night for God to give me some energy and enthusiasm for the interview because I had no desire to go in and "wow them" as Jeremy said. Some of you may remember in May when I cried anytime anyone mentioned me working; I did, a lot. So, I woke this morning and had a better attitude (maybe it was dressing up for a change) and went for the interview. I really liked the principal, department chair, and two English teachers who interviewed. I liked the answers, except the possibility of not having a computer - who teaches without a computer and AverKey to send it to a TV? I was split 50/50.

So, you know me, I analyzed and over-analyzed all day today. My Bible study this morning reiterated the "be strong and courageous" and knowing the Word. So, does that mean be strong and courageous and don't work or be strong and courageous and work? To be or not to be, that is the question?

After talking to the principal more, and after some good time for Jer and I to visit while Jason and Jennifer kept the kids (a big thank you), we had time to really hash out some stuff. We named some pros - meet a lot of people, validity in the working world (who has two pastors whose wives BOTH stay home?), recognition as a normal person, and immersion in the community. Jer likes the fact that we would know a lot of football players for the games - football is king in small towns! We listed some cons - less time for "church business," less time with kids (but quality, not quantity), less time for us to spend together.

Please join us in praying for wisdom and discernment at this point. The department chair wanted and answer tomorrow, but the principal gave me until this weekend. We'll be doing a nightly vote until someone demands an answer.

Funny aside - as we drove to eat we drove past the administration building. There were a lot of cars and Jer noted, "must be having a school board meeting." Then I remembered, the prinicpal told me I would be submitted to the board tonight - I was probably officially hired tonight - kinda funny.

7.16.2005

Back from Vacation

Okay, it's a boring title; and you would think that I could do better. This could get long since I have to cover 4 days!

Wednesday we left for San Antonio on the White Family vacation. The link at the bottom are various pictures I took as are those that are embedded in the post. We left about 8:00, about 30 miles out of town we caught Joey's family, and we traveled together to West. Here we stopped and Jenna got in with the boys - Lisa said the decibel level rose when we came on board. We shopped the outlet malls in San Marcos and arrived at the hotel in time to go eat. After some swimming we turned in for the night. Hudson passed out immediately - see the picture. At midnight Jenna woke up me up crying from scratching. Jer and I were up with her until 3:00am trying to stop the scratching. I was a basketcase, and he was the only rock I had.

Thursday proved better. Jeremy told me, "We are going to have fun today," since I was still whining to go home and see a doctor (and I would have sat on the dermatologists doorstep until he saw her, too). We headed down the elevator with Jen's car seat, and she had to ride...We got to the car to go and eat at 11:15, and there was a voice message. It was from Dr. Watts, our pediatrician, who was calling just to check up on Jenna. I called her back immediately, and I was put through to her immediately, and told her it was God's timing because we had an awful night. She listened and cared (I think pedi's are also therapists for parents). She advised me to call the derm. and ask about the light therapy. I mentioned National Jewish in Colorado, and while she was completely supportive, she suggested we get Dr. Gahli (derm.) to help us look around the metroplex first. So, I called Gahli, and the nurse had to listen to me cry...anyway, this week we'll schedule to talk about the Narrowband light therapy for eczema. Jenna looks pretty rough again. Anyway, we at the Hard Rock, walked on the River Walk, and headed back for a nap. The family ate dinner at Landry's. FUNNY - I told Melba that the last time we all went on a trip Lisa and I were engaged to the boys, and now look at us all. Jeremy started cracking up laughing. Then he said, "Yeah, couldn't have sex then, and can't now!" It was absolutely hysterical, and that may be more than you wanted to know, but it was funny how some things just cycle!

Friday we came home and David, Robbin, and Paige Dzina from Dallas came to spend the night. Jer made great steaks and we enjoyed an all too short visit with them.

Today we went to Marley's birthday party (a neighbor), and went to Jer's uncle and aunt's to see our new cousin, Cole. He's a cutie! We also got to check out their pool, which is great, and our new swimming hole!

Now, it's time to get Jen in bed (late again) and try to catch up on a little laundry.

7.12.2005

Pretty Skin!

Okay, I'm a little scared to actually post this, but Jenna's skin looks the best it has looked in a long, long time. Jer is doing her wraps right now (no meds needed, just moisturizer) and he even commented, "Wow, this is the best her skin has looked!" Thank you to all of you who are praying; Jenna will tell you that God healed her. I love the faith of a little child!

We are off tomorrow morning for vacation in San Antonio with the White Family. It is a much needed, much anticipated break. But before we leave, I must finish balancing books and pack! Have a great day!

7.11.2005

Happy Anniversary, Mom & Dad

My mom and dad, Charlie and Linda Fulton, are celebrating 30 years of wedded bliss today. I thank them for being wonderful role models of parents and marriage.

Little man is a walker! He walked all over the yard, house, and even in the swimming pool today. Jenna is quite proud of her brother's accomplishment. He is so cute because he gets really proud of himself after about 4 steps and starts giggling and waving his arms in the air. Hopefully I'll figure out how to post short video clips to the bog and you can see it...

Our time with Maryanda and Alexis today was great! The girls had so much fun!

My favorite time with Hudson is at bedtime because I get to sit in a dark room with soft music and give him a bottle. It's the only time he's really cuddly, and the only time I'm alone with him. Tonight Jenna tiptoed in the room, kissed his foot and then left. She returned a minute later with her baby doll, sat in her mini rocker, and whispered "I love you"s to her baby. I was reveling in the sweetness of the moment - remembering how the Christian counselor I saw with PPD told me to picture myself in God's lap and enjoying his infinite peace when Jenna tiptoed back out. My bliss was interrupted by the door slam...it was priceless. Life with kids - and all the blessings. In any case, find some time today to spend in God's lap - I have (no tail kicking today, Jennifer!).

Long Night

Have you ever noticed that when people refer to a "long night" that it is never a good thing?

Church was great last night; I hope to watch the video today to be able to comment on the actual service. It was awesome to see everyone spring into action together. I arrived on location at about 5:20, later than I wanted, but as early as I was able. All of our support were in action. Some were finishing sound check, some putting up the video camera, some setting out refreshments, literature, etc. At 5:45 STRANGERS started coming in - I always expected the people we have met and personally invited to come, but I guess I didn't really process that people would come based on the cards and newspaper ads.

After service some of our friends came over for lasagna. We ended up talking and watching Bambi (Jenna hadn't seen it today). I guess we went to bed about 10:45, but Jeremy was still hyped up from the service, and wouldn't get quiet until very near midnight. Then, Mr. Hudson Reed (it's never good when you use Mr. and both names) kept waking up. I honestly think he woke 5 times - screaming...mommy is exhausted.

I have two playdates today for Jenna (can you say 'overschedule'?). We'll head to the park in an hour to play with Dawn and Parker, and then Maryanda and Alexis will come over around 3:30. I am really looking forward to 1:00 = naptime!

Plus, I am officially starting a Bible study with Jennifer and Lisa over the book of Joshua. I've started it a few times, but I'm awful at keeping time with God. I am really hoping that Jennifer will give me the firm kick in the tail that I know I need. I figure if anyone other than Jeremy can keep me in line and me still love 'em, she can! So, you go Jen!

7.10.2005

Relaxing Sunday - so far



I could really get used to this Sunday night church thing...so could Jenna. As you can see, she helped her self to a pot that Hudson drug out this morning. She has cheerios inside and is contentedly watching Zoom on PBS while eating her Cheerios (nevermind the two bowls she at at breakfast).

Jeremy and I started serious research into eczema treatment last night. We found the National Jewish Research Center in Denver, a place our pediatrician in Dallas had mentioned. We also found a site for the National Eczema Association for Science and Education. I started crying when I read the following:

"How Can National Jewish Help?
Atopic dermatitis (AD) can be very difficult to live with. Each person with AD deserves to learn what makes their symptoms worse, how to avoid them, and how to best treat them. Even though this is different for every person, you should be able to manage your symptoms and
Participate in family, social, school, and/or work activities.
Have little or no rash.
Have very few or no side effects from medicines.
Feel good about your appearance and about your skin care.
Have restful sleep.

National Jewish is one of the leading institutions in the United States for treatment and research of atopic dermatitis. National Jewish has a variety of comprehensive programs especially designed to teach patients and families how to care for AD."


I added the bold items because I never really thought it was possible. By last night her whole face was red, as were her arms, legs, and torso. She was pretty much covered. Yes, I believe God can and will heal her, but I also recognize that he gave us physicians with expertise that we should use. Tomorrow will be a prompt call to the dermatologist and pediatrician. Jeremy said he's always liked Colorado!
The pictures are the rash and wraps, which are a treatment we're trying.

On a more upbeat note - we're preparing for StoneWater's Sneak Peek tonight. We have no idea what to expect as far as numbers of people. It will be fun, and I need to go and study for Camp Stepping Stone while Hudson is napping (I love his morning naps!).

Last night the kids and I enjoyed hanging out with Jason & Jennifer's extended family with swimming, trampoline jumping, and riding lawn mower rides for the kids. It was really nice and comfortable, even though I've only been around the extended family a handful of times. I really did have fun, as did the kids.

Jer and I got into a good conversation regarding me working. Just pray for direction as we seek God's will for my work. We feel like we need to know what we want as I head into the interview. I have so many dichotomies pulling at me - Income would be great, but what about time off for eczema research and doctor visits? What do we do for child care when we don't know what sets her off? She would LOVE to be in a regular environment with kids every day! Could I help with the church if I'm pouring myself into teaching? If I start, I'll probably never take time off again. Can we make it just one more year with me substituting? These are just a few things we bat around...

7.09.2005

Experiment time!

I finally figured out how to post a link from here to my Shutterfly account so that you can see more pictures. So, look back at the past days and check out my links, and, thus, pictures.

Yes, I might have too much time on my hands...No - I'm really just loafing instead of doing something that really matters!

7.08.2005

Noxema Boy


Hudson began this morning with a little excitement, as you can see in the picture. I had finished getting him dressed and rubbed down with Eucerin and was chasing Jenna to get her dressed. When I returned, that is what I found. He was quite proud of himself - giggling in his deep little "hu hu hu." It was Noxema that he had gotten into, so it washed off him and out of the carpet easily. Tonight he had a strange reaction to either hamburger meat or brocoli (I think it was hamburger, since it has happened before after ham. meat) - he broke out in whelps on his wrists and his eye swelled a little. Who's allergic to hamburger meat?

Jenna is itching a little and her skin is really inflamed. She's also been really pale the past couple of days. I guess I'll get that blood test I've been thinking about a little earlier than her 3 year check up.

We had lots of friends over tonight. We kept Jen and Jason's kids while they went out - it was a lot of fun, and funny. Their little boy, Braden, can really antagonize Jenna, and she falls for it every time. It's good for miss bossy pants to have the tables turned a little. Then, some of our neighbors that have a little girl who is about to turn 3 came over. She and Jenna played up a storm; they are already good friends, so Jenna is loving making friends and playing. She even gave her a kiss and hug as they were leaving; she would have gone home with them if we would have let her.
See more pictures of Noxema Boy at the link:

7.07.2005

Keys!

I found my keys! For those of you who haven't participated in the drama of the missing keys, let me tell you a little story.

Tuesday we returned my uncle's 57 Chevy that we borrowed for the parade. We stopped in Tolar, where the car was stored in a friend's garage, and left the truck. The whole family then loaded up for the drive in the convertible, despite the missing seatbelts, and thus, lack of car seats. Jenna enjoyed the drive, and Hudson spent a lot of the time playing in the floor board trying to get to the gas pedal.

Upon arriving in Stephenville, I asked Jer, "You did bring the keys, right?" The answer was a shocked look that resounded "No." So, after dropping us off at Mom and Dad's, Jeremy took off to Granbury to pick up keys for my car. He couldn't find them - ANYWHERE. Over the phone we covered every possible place they could be - nothing. He thought he remembered his set in the console of his truck, in Tolar, so he went there. Sure enough, he retrieved keys, and after supper we took off, stopped to get the truck, and returned home.

Meanwhile, I've looked in any and every possible nook and cranny that I could stick my keys. I had given up hope when, today before our evening walk, I saw some keys on the seat of Jer's motorcycle. My keys!

That's today's big news. And, Jenna has just informed us that she is not a little girl, she is a big girl, like us. She's only two, so I think we have a long row to hoe if she already thinks she's big like us.

Hudson took 7 steps several times today - he's just so darn cute!

just news


Hudson is becoming a walker faster each day. Yesterday he took six steps, and he is constantly letting go and standing on his own for longer periods of time. He is into EVERYTHING, just like he is supposed to be. He can climb almost as well as Jenna, and we have found him on the back of the couch, in the rocking chair, and almost up on Jen's bed. He seems to have a mind for the mechanical as he'll watch something and then head over to try to operate it or take it apart. He revels in playing outside where we have a playhouse with doors and windows that swing open and a small slide he loves to go down.

Jenna's skin is looking GREAT! I know our families and some of you have been praying for her complete healing. Last night I told her how good her skin was looking and she said, "God is healing me." It made my eyes fill with tears. I've discontinued all steriod creams and Elidel. Right now I'm using Noxema and Eucerin. I'm still doing the wraps in the morning, I just use those two creams and nothing else. I'm not even giving her any of her antihistamines. We're really working on whining - if anyone has any tips, please let me know. We've also been on such a crazy schedule, that we're trying to get back to a bedtime of 8:30. (She's been up with us until 10:00 or 10:30 a lot of nights). Right now she wants to go outside and play in the rain.

My allergies have gone beserk! I've been praying that if God wants to give me all of Jen's allergies to heal her, please do. Well, yesterday my lips swelled and I itched internally from my jaw to my rib cage; last night I had asthma worse than I have in years (I actually had to use my inhaler). I took a bendryl at bedtime and this morning my lower lip is a little swollen and itchy, my nose is itchy and runny. I feel so bad for her if this is how she felt all the time!

I have a job interview on July 18. I don't know what I want, so just pray for direction. I've turned down 6 interviews for full time positions in other districts, but this is for a Sophomore English position at Granbury High School. I really don't want to work full time, but it is here in town. I do worry, however, about daycare with the kids' allergies, time with my family, and how to help the church when I'm consumed with teaching (as I would be at least the first year in a new position). Then again, I do want to try high school, the income would be an added benefit, Jenna does need to be out of the house, etc. Anyway, I don't even have the job, and I'm already worrying - does that surprise anyone?

Jeremy is doing great. He is such a good dad and husband. He is really enjoying the church busyness and all the rewards that we have seen. He really likes having a challenge, and this is definitely one for all of us!
Click on link to see more parade pictures

7.06.2005

Normal?


If you read the StoneWater update, you know all about the church side of life. If you haven't read that, I encourage you to, because I won't hit on a lot of church life here.

We are almost recovered from the weekend. I cannot tell you how much fun we had, while at the same time feeling the most tired I have in a long time. Now, the tired thing seems to be just an ordinary part of church planting life.

I spent all of Friday night into Saturday morning sick. It seems to be a rapidly spreding type of illness, as all of our Team church helpers were sick Saturday night. Our neighborhood party really was the most fun I have had in a long time...just visiting and meeting people was wonderful.

Saturday, once I was well, was good too. I got to go out with Jeremy, Jennifer and Jason Saturday evening to distribute water and StoneWater cards. We were at a fireworks stand, and all of a sudden I saw a parachuter drop on the other side of the highway behind a hill. I had just enough time to point him out to the others, and we commented that he would soon be on the road. Sure enough, a few minutes later, here he came with his chute. Jeremy and Jason met him with water and a card. It was one of those random things where you think, "Well, God's just dropping them out of the sky, now."

Our first worship service was amazing. I was hot and uncomfortable, but pleasantly joyful, too.

The parade was funny. Here I am ready to show my girl off (Hudson went with my parents since he didn't need to be out in the sun so long), and she hops in the car with Nana and PawPaw White. I'll admit, my feelings were hurt, but I saw the reason when we started handing out water. I passed the water from the trough to the people on the road...it was busy. Then I got the word from the front car that my princess needed a snack. It was 11:00, so I darted into the Phillips 66 on the side of the parade route for a box of graham crackers, then back on the float. A little further I got another message for Mom to approach the front car. Jenna had to tee tee - we darted into the funeral home that was on the route, and then caught up again.

Jenna is getting tall and is cuter every day. I think I'm about to try any and all natural and homeopathic remedies for eczema that I can find. Our steroid creams just aren't working, and I'm at my wit's end. I've been doing a lot of internet research and joined a few eczema mom's chats.

Hudson is taking 2 - 3 steps at a time, jabbering, and cutting three teeth. He's a little fussy, but he's a sweet, sweet boy.

Click on the link to see more pictures of the kids in the water pile!