There certainly is a lot of drama in my life right now. I’ve got my father trying to guilt his way back into my life and a troll who put me in a bad mood. Although my mood has greatly improved with the help of my sister and blogging friends.
My beloved dog, Sonny who is ten is not doing well. He has a cough and is bleeding from the nose. A constant trickle that won’t stop. I’m having all kinds of tests done and so far his doctors have found a mass in his nasal cavity. I’m taking him to a specialist who can determine if it’s a fungal infection or a tumor. I’m just sick about it. Sonny was my first baby. We got him a few months before we were married. During my first pregnancy Sonny would take naps with me on the couch with his head on my belly. He has been the best dog. I am not ready to let him go yet. My family will be crushed. Although Marigrace is only a toddler she will miss him too. She loves curling up next to him and sharing her snacks. If it is a tumor I’m being told that he would respond well to radiation and it would extend his life about another 13 months. So I’m hopeful, praying that it’s a fungal infection which would be easier to treat.
My other drama is with Madeline. We are taking the kids on a vacation and we leave tomorrow. My hubby got a two bedroom condo because he’s hoping for a sexcation. We are flying. Madeline is afraid of flying. We flew last summer and she got a little anxious. Her anxiety and tics have greatly reduced since then so we decided to fly again. She was okay with it until tonight. The excitement of our vacation is stressing her out. She currently has a coughing tic. My hubby didn’t realize it was a tic and made a comment to her about needing medicine. Drawing attention to her tics causes her to tic more. Especially under times of stress. It didn’t help that she saw the weather prediction of storms tomorrow. She flipped out, coughing uncontrollably until she threw up. She panicked, cried that she won’t get on the plane if it storms. It kills me to see her so fearful. I felt so helpless.
I gave her Benadryl and had her lie in my bed with a movie. I asked her questions about the movie to help take her mind off her fear that the plane is going to crash. She continued to cough and puke. Trying to reason with a child who is having a panic attack is not easy. She was a little comforted by squeezing my hand. I suggested that when she has these worries she can squeeze my hand and all her worries will travel to me so I can do the worrying for her. She seemed to like that idea. With the Benadryl kicking in and some deep breathing she coughed less. I acted silly and we laughed a little bit before she finally passed out. Then I went in the bathroom and cried.
It’s so sad to see her have these worries and difficulties at such a young age. Even though I have moments of not coping I firmly believe God only gives you what you can handle. I can handle this. I don’t want to have to handle it but it is what it is. All those years of providing therapy and support to my mother were preparation for this.
We are going to do our best to have a stress free morning since Madeline feeds off our stress. I’m going to give her Benadryl before the flight and pray she doesn’t have a coughing fit panic attack on the plane. I know she will feel so much better about it if the flight is smooth. I’ve noticed that her fear of things is the worst when she’s preparing to do something scary. Once she’s doing it she’s fine. It’s the damn worrying that’s getting to her. She’s done a great job of pushing through her fears. She’s afraid of elevators but will get on them. Last year she was terrified of amusement park rides and this year we can’t keep her off of them. I’m proud of her for trying the things she is afraid of. They are never as scary as she imagines them to be.
Wish us luck. Prayers are appreciated. I won’t be back blogging for a week so I hope you don’t forget me. I’m going to leave you with a funny story rather than all this drama.
This past Wednesday I went to a blogging seminar with Lisa and met all these cool people. We got a little lost on the way which made us a few minutes late. They had already started the seminar when we got there. I made Lisa walk in ahead of me because I’m a chicken. Karma bit me in the ass for it. I had one of those moments that seem to only happen to me. Like the time I wiped out in a quiet auditorium filled with a thousand people but I’ll save that story for another post.
We quietly found a seat next to Rebecca. I decided to turn off my phone because I could see my kids calling me to ask me a dumb question like what kind of chair I was sitting in. Some how I managed to put my phone on speaker as it called my voicemail. I have no idea how it happened. It’s never happened before. I was frantically trying to turn my phone off while my messages were being played for all to hear. I could feel everyone looking at me. I gave a meek “I’m sorry”. The mediator responded with a request for everyone to turn their phones off. Every one seemed to find it funny except for her. Smooth move, huh? It’s so typical of something I would do.
I’m off to bed now. It’s been an exhausting couple of days and I have a much needed vacation waiting for me.
Related posts:
I am a self professed slacker mom. I answer to Kristie or slackermommy.
My house is a mess, my kids are obnoxious, and my husband is sexually deprived.
I drive my kids to school in my pj's, I can make a couple of Happy Meals from the floor of my car, my kids eat in front of the television, and I believe a dirty house helps kids have a healthy immune system.
If you can relate then this blog is for you. No sugar coating on my blog. Let's get real about being a mommy, wife, sister, and friend.
You can also find me slacking at:
Teebo
July 1st, 2007 at 2:56 am
Wow. You have a lot of stuff on your plate right now.
I’m sorry to hear about Sonny. If it is a tumor, and radiation will only extend his life by 13 months, that’s not good. (Like you need ME to tell you that.) And it doesn’t sound like his quality of life would be good during that extended time either. Hopefully, it’s a fungal infection and you won’t have to make “the decision.” I’m not going to say what that would be because I’m sure you already (sadly) know this.
It’s good that you understand what panic attacks are for Madeline’s sake. As a panic attack sufferer myself, I know I had them as an adolescent, I just didn’t know what they were. And it’s pretty scary. But you are right, the worst part of the panic itself is worrying that it’s going to happen at all. Once I’m doing the thing I’m panicked about I’m fine. You’re doing good with her.
I’ll keep my fingers crossed about everything and I hope you have a great vacation. No stress. Deep breathing. Relaxation.
Little Nut Tree
July 1st, 2007 at 7:59 am
I really feel for you reading this. I know sympathy isn’t exactly helpful but it’s so hard to think of the right things to say…
You certainly have a lot going on right now..
I really hope things smooth out… great to hear how well Madeline is doing..
Have a great holiday. I really hope everything runs smoothly x
Jenn
July 1st, 2007 at 8:17 am
Madeline is so lucky to have you there for her. She may not realize how lucky she is now, but she will.
I’m SO sorry to hear about Sonny. It’s a tough place to be. Hoping its an infection, and not cancer. My 10-year-old lab has lung cancer and sometimes he has rough days of not being able to breathe too well, but most of his days are good ones.
Tabba
July 1st, 2007 at 8:28 am
I’m sorry about Sonny. I hope it is just an infection.
Poor Madeleine. I think you’re right…if you can just get her on the plane, she’ll be fine.
Doesn’t it just rip your gut to shreds to see how they worry like this? They’re just too young to be riddled with such anxiety.
I hope that all goes well with boarding and the flight.
Have a great time! Enjoy.
Leave all of the drama behind
Sierra
July 1st, 2007 at 8:33 am
You are in my prayers. Enjoy your much needed vacation and good luck with the flight.
Anonymous
July 1st, 2007 at 10:32 am
Since you are interested in prayers & praying, you may find helpful, as I have, watching Joel Osteen on TV 30 min. each Sunday on national & local stations — (joelosteen.com) He’s very energizing & uplifting. This Sunday’s subject: Be a victor, not a victim. God Bless.
emilyhope
July 1st, 2007 at 10:47 am
You have a lot going on. I do hope everything turns out ok for Sonny. Enjoy your vacation because… you deserve a break today, so get uo and get away!
Rebecca
July 1st, 2007 at 11:28 am
Kristie,
Oh my gosh, you guys need a vacation– my prayers are with all of you, your dog included! How stressful. Madeline is so lucky to have you, your love, and your understanding nature. You’re doing a great job.
Lawyer Mama
July 1st, 2007 at 12:34 pm
That so sounds like something I would do. Only I would somehow find a way to trip and fall walking up the aisle too.
I’ll keep my fingers crossed for a stress free flight!
Queen of the Mayhem
July 1st, 2007 at 12:41 pm
You are such a sweet and patient mom….no! Really you are!
I hope that sweet girl is able to conquer her fears and you all have a great vacation….ESPECIALLY the SEX part!
I will pray for some peace for you!
Mert
July 1st, 2007 at 12:52 pm
I will keep you guys in my prayers. I’m sorry about your pup, I hope it’s something they can treat.
Your daughter is so strong, to overcome so many fears… she’s an awesome young woman!
My daughter is high strung at times, and we have come to terms with it just being who she is… I can imagine the patience a parnt has to have in your situation. You’re such a loving and wonderful mom.
Anna has recently told us that she is afraid to fly, she doesn’t like it. our last trip was over a year ago, and she was teary but did fine once we took off. Now, she is dead set against flying at all so the next time should be interesting.
ewe are here
July 1st, 2007 at 2:16 pm
I hope you enjoy your much needed vacation … and I really hope the flights go well.
kailani
July 1st, 2007 at 3:32 pm
I feel so bad for her! Before I became a flight attendant, I was afraid to fly. You would have to medicate me to get me on a plane. I hope everything goes well.
BTW, thanks for stopping by.
Kuwaitia
July 1st, 2007 at 4:48 pm
I hope you guys have a fabulous vacation! My thoughts and prayers for you, your family, and Sonny. BTW, Madeline seems to take after you (regarding the strength to overcome her fears) and she is so lucky to have you for a mama!
And thanks for checkin out my blog!
Lisa
July 1st, 2007 at 7:20 pm
I’ve been thinking of you guys all day.
I’m so sorry Madeline’s scared of flying. Good thing it was a calm-weathered day! Hopefully you guys are already at your destination and that you’ve gotten there safely and drama free.
And I’m so sorry to hear about Sonny. Hope, hope, HOPE its a fungal infection. He IS a beautiful and sweet dog. I fell in love with him while visiting you.
As for the phone thing, that WAS pretty funny. Miss “600 Links” Moderator was miffed because the attention, at that point, wasn’t on her. Have you seen her site? Gag.
Anyway… Hope you all goes wonderfully.
Suburban Oblivion
July 1st, 2007 at 8:01 pm
Will keep you guys in my thoughts, please update as soon as you can. ((HUGS))
Gnome
July 1st, 2007 at 9:57 pm
I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers! Try to relax and enjoy your family as much as you can while on vacation.
Pokey Puppy
July 1st, 2007 at 11:27 pm
Oh dear.. i’m so sorry to hear about everyhing. I hope your trip helps and that everyhing goes smoothly on the plane. You could use some R&R
Dana
July 2nd, 2007 at 7:57 am
I for one, loved that you dialed your voicemail on speaker. I thought Murphy’s Law only stalked me …
I say we strap our dads, the trolls, and all the other crap into some fireworks this Wednesday.
The "Mind"
July 2nd, 2007 at 8:58 am
I’ve made it a habit to always silence my phone before going in strictly because I don’t want to be that person. LOL
Sorry to hear about Sonny, I do hope that it isn’t serious and something can be done. *hugs*
I love how you calmed Madeline down. I can only imagine how hard it is to see your kids go through that.
Pattie
July 2nd, 2007 at 12:04 pm
Please enjoy your vacation. You certainly have earned it with all you have going on.
If it helps, I nominated you for a Perfect Post!
That has to count for something, right?

QT
July 2nd, 2007 at 12:32 pm
Have a great time!!! I hope it is all smooth sailing for you.
Jennifer aka Binky Bitch
July 2nd, 2007 at 12:51 pm
I certainly hope your flight goes smoothly. And you get to have an actual sexcation!
Sorry about your puppy dog, they really are a part of the family, aren’t they?!
Dorky Dad
July 2nd, 2007 at 11:04 pm
I’m really sorry to hear about Sonny. That’s tough dealing with a pet who’s not well.
And I wish you luck on your vacation — and I’ll say a little prayer, too. I hate flying myself, so I understand the anxiety.
Surviving Motherhood
July 2nd, 2007 at 11:59 pm
sorry to hear about Sonny, sounds like you have a hell of a time on your hands at the moment.
I have a little something for you at my place…
PinkPowerSuit.com
July 3rd, 2007 at 12:43 am
Maybe if M. thinks of Jude Law, that will help calm her down. Helps me. Oh, right. Not appropriate.
In seriousness, I wish I could help somehow. It’s quite painful just reading this stuff and not being able to do anything. Your title said it all.
You inspire me with all that you go through. It’s nice to know I’m not the only one, not that I wish for other people to have the same issues with their parents, etc.
I can’t help but feel that there’s something beautiful about this blogging thing: sharing our stories and thoughts. It encourages tolerance and understanding and compassion.
I hope it offers some comfort to know that you can turn to your blog and within hours have 30-some people virtually offer a hug.
feener
July 3rd, 2007 at 6:08 am
good luck with the flight, i hope it goes fine. poor thing. we are doing a flight with our kids end of month and i am terrified !!
Jenster
July 4th, 2007 at 7:28 pm
I really hope you all enjoyed the vacation. Your family certainly needed it.
You are such a great mom to your kids. You tell me I’m strong on my blog, but you’re just as strong, girl. Your trials are just different than mine. That’s all.
Ms.L
July 4th, 2007 at 9:06 pm
Aww man!
You have too much going on right now. I’m sorry:(
I am the Queen of Smooth Moves.
I’m starting to look at it as an interesting quirk of my personality. May be it’ll catch on everywhere and before you know it people will be doing goofy things all over the place. We could be trendsetters! It could happen…I’m holding out for that day!
Lisa
July 4th, 2007 at 10:29 pm
Congrats on the Perfect Post! I’m glad Patty did it. Cause I was planning to nominate you for that post but realized I missed the deadline!
So YEAY you!
Worker Mommy
July 5th, 2007 at 1:14 pm
Sexcation, I love it. Why, is it that they all hope for that.
It sounds like you need a little time off. I hope you truly get in some relaxation and most of all I wish you the best with Sonny!
carrie
July 5th, 2007 at 1:24 pm
Geez, vacation is right!!! I hope you are enjoying yours right this very minute and I am sending good thoughts for Sonny and Madeline and the rest of you. Oh, and your phone, that poor phone that tried to embarrass you at the conference. Shame on it!
Remember to breathe!
Carrie
Queen of the Mayhem
July 5th, 2007 at 3:09 pm
Hey! I nominated you for a silly award on my site….come and check it out!
Momish
July 5th, 2007 at 7:19 pm
I am sure, with your help, Madeline will manage. I know it is so hard to watch your daughter, so young, go through that! My heart goes out to you and her.
I hope Sonny gets well soon! Poor baby.
I hope your vacation is relaxing to say the least!
shauna
July 6th, 2007 at 5:56 pm
I am so amazed at how well you help your daughter work through her anxiety. That takes a lot of strength, patience, and love. I feel for you and am wishing for a smooth and storm-free flight. Enjoy your vacation. You deserve it!
Terri@SteelMagnolia
July 7th, 2007 at 12:22 am
Oh my gosh girl..
I will pray for you dear Sonny..
I feel sick for you… our pets are like our children.
I’m sorry about what’s happening w/ your daughter.. it’s sounds very stressful….
we love our kids so much!
I am thinking of you and praying for you!
Heart hugs!
Geoffrey
July 8th, 2007 at 11:50 am
Looking for something interesting to read this summer?
http://www.lulu.com/content/608930
-Geoffrey
Ron Southern
July 10th, 2007 at 10:46 am
Well, you’re good. I’ll come back again and see what’s going on.
Random thoughts about my vacation
July 8th, 2008 at 10:38 pm
[…] did much better flying than she did last year. Looking back I realize how much she has grown up and how her anxiety has greatly improved. […]