Let's Rewind

So last time I posted I was 30 weeks. And now... I'm a Mom. So much has happened in these last 7 weeks that I don't really know where to start.

Around 33 weeks we went to Stork Vision and got to see our angel in 3D.

Couldn't believe how beautiful he is. Couldn't wait to meet him. I didn't have to wait too much longer.

The day before I made it to 35 weeks, I lost my Gma. That is an entire post all in itself. And I will do that later. Not a day goes by that I don't miss her... But after this past week I can honestly say I know she is watching out for me. I wish she was here to hold my son. It's all she talked about when we were together and she'd put her hands on my belly. But if she can't be here, if I don't have a choice, I'm so grateful she's in heaven with Gpa and keeping her family safe on a much greater scale.

Needless to say that next week was pretty hard. Everyone was so worried I would go into labor early but I didn't. I was able to work some and even held it together long enough to speak at her funeral.

That takes us to 36 weeks. Mother's Day. We went to church. The same church we'd just celebrated my Gma's life in 2 days earlier. It was a wonderful service. The Way Band brought me to tears with the song I Can Only Imagine. I could feel Grandma around us.

During the next week, Kev and I spent our time getting things ready for Nate upstairs and down. We had gone to babies r us and buy buy baby to spend our giftcards and got pretty much all we thought we could ever need. We safe so grateful to everyone who came to our showers or sent us a gift. We weren't ready for Nate, but we were getting there.

On Monday night we went to our infant care class. Learned how to sponge bathe a doll. But it really was informative and I'm so glad we went. Especially because 48 hours later...

Wednesday night, May 15th. Our last night as a family of three. We found ourselves in the closet. Mother nature brought us a tornado and we were so lucky that it passed right over us and didn't touch down.

I started having Braxton hicks that Wednesday night. There we were in the closet and we both said to my belly, not tonight, Nate. :) they were very infrequent but were accompanied with the slightest amount of pain. Wasn't happening enough to even consider going to the hospital. Went to sleep and was able to sleep just fine.

Woke up on May 16th. Got ready for work and went to school. Little did I know, my world was about to completely change. Talk about a whirl wind.

30 weeks

This was a great week for me. It was exhausting, but being able to rest on Friday was wonderful. Kevin had to go scout in Odessa at the last minute so he hopped a plane Thursday morning and it was my first 24 hours without him this pregnant. Nate and I did Ok. And I was super busy, had to work a track meet... Ahhh the joys of being a coach & a coach's wife. :)

We had a track meet at Martin this past week. Kevin and I met on that field, in the end zone closest to school. My best friend introduced us when I was visiting the school, when I was still at Oakridge. 2 years later, on that same day, Kevin took me back to that field and gave me a promise ring. He promised to ask me to marry him someday... 14 years later... I got to show my son this place that changed my life.

Coach Wilkins was my Coach when I was at Martin. I was a football manager, in charge of the equipment, and he was the Coach in charge of us... Among all his other football duties. He now coaches at Boles and I get to see him every now and then. He's such a sweet man and I learned so much from him.

Kev had to stay overnight in Odessa because there wasn't a returning flight Thursday night after the game. His flight got in early Friday afternoon and he was home for about 2 hours before he had to walk out the door for the varsity soccer game. I slept the majority of Friday. I think that's why I feel good now.

I am 30 weeks today. I was not feeling good this morning. Exhausted, nauseous, heartburn and restless legs. Unfortunately, we didn't make it to church. I'm bummed. We were going to go to the contemporary service at New World UMC and rock out to The Way Band while our friend's little ones danced around. But I'm glad I stayed home because I feel great right now. I was able to go to lunch with my family and feel somewhat rested for the week.

I am so grateful for today and all it means. God is Big Enough and Jesus' love knows no bounds. My Mom just told me that a dear family friend passed away this week. She was a great person. She was a breast cancer survivor. She died from complications from Alzheimer's. I'm so glad she's in heaven where she is no longer in pain and her spirit is free.

Hope your Easter is full of God's love and Joy! 10 weeks to go until we get to meet our own angel.

He can't get here fast enough!

27 weeks?? Or 29?

Last night, Kevin and I finally got our son's name up on the wall! I love it so much!!!

That's right... It starts with a N!!

I'm so grateful to my hubby for doing this!! Who knew applying basically a big sticker to the wall could be so stressful.

Drum roll, please!!! our son's name is Nathaniel James! We plan to call him Nate, and we do... But I also refer to him as Nathaniel. His name means "A Gift From God"... Couldn't be more perfect.

We went to the dr today! It was a wonderful morning because we got to see Nate on the sonogram. He's so beautiful. We got to see his brain! So cool!! As they checked the rest of the organs she said he is for sure a boy. :) Everything looked really good. We still had difficulty seeing the heart because my navel was casting a shadow right over his heart. Dr. Froeschke made us an appointment for a high tech sono on April 8th. Supposed to be really clear and they will make a DVD of the sono for you. Very excited about this!! :)

He is measuring at 29 weeks. The sonogram machine says our estimated due date is May 24th. But when we talked to our doctor, we are keeping the original due date of June 9th because that was the base of estimation back in September. He says that we will have to just see when Nate decides to enter this world.

He said if he continues to grow at this rate and gets to be 9lbs or so that we need to prepare ourselves for a C-section. He is already 3lbs and 1 ounce. My Dad and brother were both about 10 lbs when they were born. I was 7 lbs 13oz and Kev was over 8 pounds. So I am 100% ok with a C-section of a 9lb baby. :) I would rather deliver normally, but I trust my doctor and god's plan and will go with it.

Here is his profile:

This photo makes me giggle. He's looking at us and covering his face with his hands. You can see his open lips and his nose. ;) we were able to watch him open and close his mouth. I want a sonogram machine in my house... I'd never leave!!!

And this is his face... Once again looking right at us. Can't get enough!

Also good news today, my BP was 102 over 70. Thrilled with that. Guess Spring Break agrees with me. :)

Did my glucose today and we will get the results in a day or two. Pretty much all I eat are sweets right now so I am praying we get the all clear.

Other than that things are good around here. :) Counting the days until we meet our son, Baby Nate!

Welp... It's a.....

So I think its time for an update. Maybe? :) Kevin and I went to our sonogram on January 15th. We took the day off so we could meet some family members for lunch and hopefully share the news! Boy or girl? We didn't care either way.

It was icy that morning and we were running late but some how managed to get to the appointment on time. Had to wait just a little bit and then they called us back.

I have had so many sonograms and the same technician has done each one of them. She's so sweet and has held my hand from the beginning... And I saw it right away! Just needed confirmation from the tech...

After our appointment we met my parents and few family members for lunch to "reveal" to them our baby's gender. We had originally planned a dinner that night for family and friends, but Kevin had a soccer game and we didn't know what time he'd be done.

We stopped by Nothing Bundt Cakes and they put together a gender reveal cake. It was so cute.

When we got to the restaurant, we hid the cake and let everyone go around the table and share their guesses... I think it was about 50/50.

And then...

It's a BOY!!! My cousin took a video but I'm not sure how to post it.

We are so excited! Kevin took video while the sono tech checked all his organs and everything looks great! We saw his blood moving through his veins, his brain, his spine... It was surreal.

I'm 25 weeks now and he is squirming and kicking away. It's the weirdest, most wonderful feeling. He really likes music and when a song has a good drum beat he will kick on beat. No like a steady beat, but when he does kick it'll be right in sync with the music.

I was at a training and they played "Let's get it started" and that was the first time I noticed it. I told Kevin and he was so disappointed. :) Kevin said, "Not the Black Eyed Peas!" He has since played our son lots of different types of music. He likes Texas Country, Michael Jackson, and *Nsync. He did not kick to 98 degrees.

Maybe we have a little drummer on our hands.

The nursery is coming along.. Kevin wanted to get the big stuff done on our winter break. He worked really hard.

We started out by picking the little girl and boy bedding before we knew what we were having. We wanted a paint color that was gender neutral. These were our bedding options and the paint color we chose:

After installing a ceiling fan, Kevin got to work on painting. I tried to help but after 5 minutes in a mask I couldn't handle the fumes.

Our boy bedding is called the Bow Wow Buddies. Kevin picked it out and that may be my favorite part.

My parents gave us a glider for Christmas. We bought the crib on sale, which was awesome.Then we went to Ikea with some friends of ours to get the other furniture. We went with dark wood because its gender neutral and will still work if we get to have a baby #2 and the baby is a girl.

So far, so good! :)

We are so excited! We are a little over 100 days until our due date!!! Can't wait to meet our son!

Baby boy or girl??

I am 19 weeks!! We have our Organ sonogram tomorrow and assuming our little one is not too shy, we'll find out if Junebug is a boy or girl!!
We are so excited!!!
So far... My pregnancy has been pretty smooth. Minus the spotting in the beginning. The nausea is manageable. Cravings not too crazy... And then my nose decided I shouldn't breathe through it anymore. This was a side effect I wasn't prepared for. But I am trying everything to manage it. We bought a humidifier. We needed one for the baby's room anyway. It really helped. Tonight I'm trying the nasal spray and breathe right strips as well. Going to talk to the doctor about what meds I can take at our appointment tomorrow. I need them like woah.
But I'd rather be pregnant with a stuffy nose and drainage, then not pregnant at all! :)

Giving it to God

Today was a very special day. Today, my nephew Luka was baptized into the Methodist church. Some of my family gathered today at First United Methodist Church of Mansfield to bare witness to this glorious event.

It went so smoothly. Luka slept through the whole thing. His parents beamed at the alter as he was welcomed into the Christian faith. Ember looked beautiful with her hubby and Luka's god parents at her side. It was a day of rejoicing.

It was also wonderful to be at church. I have been an absentee attendee as of late to put it mildly. Life gets so busy that it's easy to make excuses on Sunday mornings to stay home snuggled in bed, or getting chores done.

To be honest, once again, this morning I didn't really want to leave the house. But I am so glad I did.

There is a calming effect that comes over me as a large room of people
pray together. The music was beautiful and the sermon was easy to follow and entertaining... But the prayers. They almost brought me to tears.

I've been so scared of losing this baby. So fearful of something I have no control over. And today while we prayed that god would take away our fears and help us to see that his healing hands are in all we do... I started to believe. I started to let go.

Doesn't mean I won't be devastated. It only means that I understand that God's plan for my life may not always line up with my wants. But I believe in his plan for me.

Right now I pledge to give my fear and worry... My constant pessimistic attitude that something is going to go wrong... I give it all to him. I replace it with his love and the understanding that above all, he loves me unconditionally and will provide what I need.

If you are struggling with something... I hope this motivates you to do the same. I'll be here to support you and pray for you... Always.

God Is Big Enough.

Merry Christmas!

I'm a believer

Before I dive into this story let me start by telling you that we have been trying to get pregnant since June 2010. We tried on our own and were successful in Dec. 2010. It only last a few weeks and then the baby was gone. In April of 2010 we were referred to a fertility specialist named Dr. Le of Advanced Reproductive Care. We met with him and he said it sounded like my progesterone levels are off and therefor I don't ovulate every month. Maybe 2 or 3 times a year. Great!

So we set up a game plan.
I would go to their office on the 2nd or 3rd day of my cycle and do an ultrasound to make sure my lining shed and my ovaries looked good. Then I would take Clomid for 5 days. I would go back for another ultra sound on day 12 to see if the Clomid worked and to see if I had any mature follicles. If I did then they would give me a shot to ovulate. All that just to get my body to do what most women do naturally. Then on day 20 I would go get blood work done to check my progesterone level to see if the shot worked and I ovulated.

So, we tried that in June. Didn't work. We were in Hawaii when it was time for round two so we had to skip that month. Then we tried again in August. Not smart. I was stressed to the max and the meds weren't working. They upped my dosage of Clomid to the most possible but it still didn't work that month. The shot didn't even make me ovluate. What a waste.

We took a break until after football season and gave it another go in Dec 2011. This is when they decided I need more stimulant to mature my follicles. So Clomid every day for 5 days and 4 shots of Menapure every other day. It was really exciting to go in for that 12 day ultrasound and see the mature follicles! The most I ever had was in February 2011 and it was 2 in each ovary. Dr. Le said that this round I should be prepared because their was a chance for multiples.

So they gave me my shot. Different brand that actually did make me ovulate.
I got my blood work done and my progesterone was 25! It's never been that high! Really good sign. So good they told me I didn't have to take my daily progesterone pill!

Kevin and I went to Florida for Spring Break and I just knew I was pregnant. I was supposed to wait until 2 weeks after my shot and I had waited 10 days. Surely that was long enough. And it was!! Little plus sign in Jordan's bathroom. My cousin Ember was also pregnant. She just had her precious little boy in October! I just knew it was meant to be.

We flew home the next day and I took a blood test. HCG was 33. They said that was ok because it was so early, but my progesterone had dropped to a 2. They told me to start taking my progesterone pills again.

A few days a bliss. No pain, cramping or bleeding. And then.. I started my cycle. I was devastated! They kept making me go back for blood tests to make sure the HCG level was dropping. I understand why but it was so painful... To get updates about how the number was going down and not up.

So we took a break. If you haven't experienced infertility you can't understand what it can do to a marriage. I think any less committed couple wouldn't have made it through. "It took it's toll" is a complete understatement. So during our break we decided to work on us. I didn't realize how broken we were until we stopped focusing on a baby and started focusing on one another.

We decided in July we would wait until after football season to go another round with treatments. And then we thought... why not? And we'd give it one try and see what happens. So we went in August... pills, ultrasounds, shots... Stress of the new school year. Nope....

So we were done. We decided to take a good long break. Basketball season is going to be really tough for me with the musical at the same time so I decided we'd wait until March of 2013. And in the meantime look into adoption. We are ready to be parents and don't really care how our baby comes to us.

So we had a plan. Enjoy each other. Get back to what made us, us.

Well.. You what they say, if you want to make god smile... Tell him your plans.

On October 3rd one of my friends at work told me that one of her family members just had a baby and is giving it up for adoption. It's 2 weeks old and needs a home. And I thought, that's it!! That's our baby! Went home and talked to Kevin about it and he said as much as he wanted to be a Dad, 12 hours was too soon. He needed more time. To be honest, I did too. Luckily as Kevin and I talked about it the baby was placed in a good home. But it really made us want to step up the adoption game.

On October 4th, my same friend said she had another cousin who just found out she was pregnant and would be giving the baby up for adoption. And again I thought. Thank you god!! 9 months was all anybody ever got to prepare. Perfect.

Later in the morning I was walking with a different coworker and she said to me, "I just have to ask you, are you with child?" I said, "What? No. Not possible, why?" She said,"Well, you are glowing." I said, "Thank you, but I think it's my make up."

I went back to my classroom, sat on my desk and thought for a minute. Could I be pregnant? I started doing some math and realized I was 5 days late. I am never late. Because of my progesterone problem, my cycle comes early if anything.

In the back of my mind I was hopeful. But the majority of my brain had the earlier mentality... Not possible.

We weren't tying. I wasn't counting days, taking my temperature, taking my progesterone, or shots or pills... It was football season!

Even with all the no way thoughts.. I still bought a pregnancy test. I took it at 4pm in the afternoon. I decided if I was 5 days late, I didn't have to wait until the morning... it should show up. And it was going to be negative anyway!

Sometimes it's great to be wrong.

I was afraid to look but I did anyway and a beautiful Plus sign was there.

After I stopped running around in circles of disbelief I called my doctor. They wanted me to get blood work done the next day and to wait to take my progesterone. Um no... Been there and I am not waiting. They said it was just to get an accurate reading of my progesterone level. I said I am going to take progesterone either way so I'm taking one tonight and y'all can just note that on the results. To be honest I had already taken it. :) my levels came back 1008 HCG and progesterone at an 8. See!!!! Even with the pill it's still low! They like it to be at least 12.

Went back two days later and I was scared that because my number was so high that it wouldn't double like it was supposed to. Worried about nothing. It was 3874 HCG.

Ohmigoodness!! I'm going to have a baby!

And then I started spotting. Are you kidding me!? I called my dr and he said that it could mean two things:

1. This is just how my body handles pregnancy.

2. It could be multiples. We'll be able to tell at the sonogram when we hear the heartbeats! Heartbeats!?!?

But, I'm losing the baby was not an option that they said. So that's good news.

Multiples?! I could see the plus side of that! It was hard enough to get pregnant but now I get to have 2 and be done. I couldn't wrap my head around more than two. I have enough arms for two. But I didn't want to carry multiples. I wanted one strong, healthy baby as I knew my pregnancy was high risk as it was.

I spotted for 2 weeks. And then the day before my first sonogram... The day I became 7 weeks it stopped. And we got to hear our baby's heart beat for the first time! Kevin and I both asked when he pointed to the baby on the screen. The dr said, "there's your baby" and we said, "one baby?" And he said yes. :)

Due date is June 9, 2013!!

One perfect angel growing and growing. So I am so grateful for my co-worker. Had she not said something I don't know what would have happened.

Had a sonogram at 8 1/2 weeks... The Junebug was wiggling away!

It's taken me almost 2 months to believe that this is real. In a little over 6 months, I am going to be a Mom. I'm going to have a child. Not only that, my best friend is having a baby due a week after me. I have a dear friend due the week before me and a close family member due a week after me.
I'm scared to death that I am going to lose this baby. Because that's what my body does. That's all I know! And now I have my nephew Luka who will be just 7 months older than my child and 3 other babies that will be so close in age! How fun to raise over children together!! It's too good to be true. But it is true. And I will hold on to hope for as long as I can!

Here's our little Junebug at 12 weeks! Perfect little angel!

Lyss Cakes

Check out the new blog! http://LyssCakes.blogspot.com

Christmas Update

Hello Everyone! I hope you had a wonderful Christmas!!

When I was little, I was always told to count my blessings. I think now, as I have 1 month left in my 20s, I finally completely understand what that means and how to apply it to my life.

Blessing #1: My hubby. God hit me over the head a few times to make sure I was listening about this guy. He surely is my soul-mate. He keeps me laughing and holds me when I cry. I appreciate him so much. And, he bought me an iPad. Who couldn’t love a person who presents you with an iPad…. Love that guy!

Blessing #15: My family. Parents, Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, siblings, cousins, in-laws, extended family, friends who become family…. I have surrounded myself with people who I can learn from everyday, people who inspire me, people who live their life in ways that continue to amaze me.

The most amazing to me, is my Dad. He’s a rock. As time goes on, he continues to improve. He is done with Chemo and Radiation… all that’s left now is recovery.

RECOVERY! What a blessing. The ability to just get there… I’m in awe.

Christmas was an emotional day for me. This was my first Christmas since my brother was born 22 years ago that I didn’t get to see him. You take it for granted. For all that my brother has been through… I was so proud of his choice of activity for Christmas day… Snowboarding. Genius. Blessing # 23- Jeff’s sobriety and happiness.

Dad was able to make it all Christmas festivities on Christmas Eve and Day. He and Mom went to a candle light service on Christmas Eve and they realized through many attempts that Mom is going to have to blow out candles for Dad for the foreseeable future. Seems he tried and tried, but couldn’t blow it out. And he chuckled as he and Mom told the story. Blessing #45- Dad’s attitude. Blessing #46- My Mom (period).

Mom took the reins to make sure that Dad was comfortable and they stuck to a strict time schedule to ensure Dad didn’t get tired out on Christmas Day. We spent the day with Mom’s side of the family at my Aunt Vicki’s house. So much tradition in all that we do on the Demarest side: Dinner, presents, dessert, overall merriment and great conversations. I love this time, we have a big family and I don’t get to see them as often as I’d like. The ones that live close, we make an effort to see one another very often. But the ones that have moved away, the holidays are the only time I see them and I cherish it. Plus we get calendars that are hand selected by our Grandma… it’s a “bowling ball” tradition. Blessing #53- TIME.

Dad filled his plate and ate a little of everything. His throat is still really sore from everything it’s been through. He is still getting the majority of his nutrition from his feeding tube, but he is making the effort. Blessing #60-Dad’s ability to maintain his weight.

After the amazing time at my Aunt Vicki’s, we headed over to Granny’s house to see the Coady side of the family. I look forward to this every year. Dad’s side of the family is spread out from New England to LA. This is an improvement in the logistics because at the beginning of the year, my uncle was still living in Mexico and my cousin in Belgium. Luckily, all have moved back to the US of A. Now, unfortunately, we don’t get to see the majority of the family as they are spread out so much but those of us who live close to the DFW area get together, catch up, tell stories and eat goodies prepared by my Granny. Dad is the most relaxed in this environment, with his Mom and his brother… relaxing and smiling… piping in when asked a question… Mom has gotten really good at reading his thoughts. Yes, his thoughts. Sometimes, he doesn’t have to mouth what he’s thinking, Mom guesses, and he agrees. I guess that comes with spending the majority of your life with the same person. Mom and Dad have been together for about 45 years, since they were 15 and 16 years old.

It was a wonderful time. My cousin Danielle is getting married in January and I am looking forward to getting to see them on a non-national holiday!!

And finally blessing #12305- Dad said “Hello” yesterday.

I didn’t get to hear it. Mom texted me about it. But I cried. It’s amazing how powerful the ability to speak or not speak can be. I have no idea what it sounds like. I can still hear my Dad’s voice in my head. It’s stronger when he hugs me. “Love you, sweetheart” is what I hear. Those were the last words my Dad said to me as he was wheeled away into surgery back in September. But it resonated and I know that’s what he’s mouthing when I see him. And hopefully I’ll get to hear those words again, in his new voice.

So… Keep the prayers coming. God is BIG ENOUGH and he is taking care of this family. Blessing #12306- God’s love.

And to quote my previous update: please continue to pray for comfort and strength for my Dad as he heals. Pray that food becomes appealing again. Pray that his throat heals with little to no scar tissue. And please say a prayer for my Mom. She is the epitome of strength and sacrifice. If you were to ask her, she'd say she's doing nothing that my Dad wouldn't do for her. Nothing that is out of the ordinary of what one caring person does for another. But I know better, and I am so grateful to know her, love her, and call her my Mama.

My Dad is continuing his fight and words can not express how proud I am of him.

So in his words, "Thank you. Keep the prayers coming. It will take a while but it will get better. Love you too."

Dad finished Chemo!!!!

Well, I guess it's time for an update! Is that an understatement? Oh well...

Dad finished chemo last week! I was texting with my mom today. I thought he had one more to go. I thought Wednesday was his last day and when she told me it was over, I started crying. I am so elated for them! So grateful and I just became overwhelmed with emotion.

He will finish with radiation on Tuesday. I asked Mom what was next and she said healing and check ups, which brought on more tears. Don't get me wrong, we are not out of the woods yet.

Dad is tired and sore. Food does not taste good, nor is it at all appealing. His throat hurts so much that I think there is no comparison. He still has the tube in his stomach and that is how he is getting most of his nutrition.

I texted with Dad today. I told him I was praying for him and he told me to keep them coming, so I am. And I am asking that you do the same.

Pray for comfort and strength for my Dad as he heals. Pray that food becomes appealing again. Pray that his throat heals with little to no scar tissue. And please say a prayer for my Mom. She is the epitome of strength and sacrifice. If you were to ask her, she'd say she's doing nothing that my Dad wouldn't do for her. Nothing that is out of the ordinary of what one caring person does for another. But I know better, and I am so grateful to know her, love her, and call her my Mama.

My Dad is continuing his fight and words can not express how proud I am of him.

So in his words, "Thank you. Keep the prayers coming. It will take a while but it will get better. Love you too."


Sorry for any typos, I used my thumbs on my iPhone!

Daddy started chemo

Wanted to let you know that Dad started Radiation and Chemo last week. Mom said that he is doing really well. He is just tired. Please continue to pray for our family and my Daddy as he continues this fight.

AND.... GO RANGERS!!!

Hold that thought...

Ok, so Dad is not starting Radiation and Chemo today. He has to see an oral surgeon before he can start. That is just part of the protocol. His appointment with the surgeon is tomorrow and we will see if anything has to be done. My understanding is that you can't get dental treatments while you are undergoing Chemo, so they make sure all is good in that department before they start.

Hopefully Chemo and Radiation will start next week. Please continue to pray for our family. We are "tough old birds" but relay a lot on our faith and strength from others.

Kevin is having a procedure on his back today around noon. Nothing major. He has a bulging disc and has been in A LOT of pain. It's getting better but still there. It's hard for him to sit down for long periods of time and it was difficult for him to sleep for a while. Praying this will help. Any prayers sent his way will be greatly appreciated!!

LOVE YOU ALL!!

Coady Clan Update

Hello Everyone!!!

Thought it was time for an Arlington Coady Clan update. We are all doing very well! :) I guess I should start with Dad, as I am sure you all want to know how he's doing. He makes this whole thing look like a breeze. He's taking everything a day at a time and he is just in the best of spirits. Two weekends ago, Granny had us over to dinner to see my Uncle Marty. Uncle Marty and Tina are moving from Mexico to North Carolina. It's a long trip and they are being so smart by breaking up the drive with stops to see family and friends.

We had a great dinner, complete with Graham cracker pie, be jealous you didn't get any because it's delicious!! Some people seemed to be surprised by how normal things are. My Dad can eat regular foods and even drink a little wine. He doesn't really enjoy beer anymore. He said all he tastes is the foam, but Merlot still taste good to him. Mom said that coffee still taste good too. :)

We had the best time talking to Granny and Uncle Marty and catching up. Uncle Marty was really excited to see my car in person!! Dad does really well with conversations by writing most of comments down on his white board, and we can read his lips pretty well. He doesn't have a tight enough seal around his trach to really be using his new larnyx but I think that's something they are going to deal with after radiation.

Dad starts chemo and radiation this week. I guess the pathology results came back as expected because they are moving forward. As for what those results are, we don't know. They just said they got them back and they were on par with what they thought they would say. So chemo and radiation it is.

Dad will have 6 ½ weeks of radiation starting this Wednesday and should be finished right before Thanksgiving if all goes according to plan. Chemo also starts on Wednesday... he’ll have Chemo once a week, on Wednesdays and radiation is everyday. He gets to go home everyday.. Radiation is only about 10 to 15 mins long but it is in Fort Worth so they'll have to make that drive everyday for the next 6 weeks. Chemo is a little longer.. like 4-5 hours. So Wednesday's are going to be tough days.

It’s going to be difficult to continue to eat during radiation because his esophagus is going to be so sore. He does still have the feeding tube in his stomach. But they want him to continue eating because if he doesn't scar tissue will form. It is going to difficult, but as with everything, Dad is taking it in stride. 1 day at a time.

One change he is planning to make is he’s going to go back to the trach that has a collar that goes around his neck during radiation. The one he wears now.. blends in very well, but if he wears it during radiation, it will tattoo his skin with a circle around the trach and we think Jeff has enough tattoos for all of us!

Speaking of Jeff, he is also doing AMAZING! Mom and Dad are driving home from Colorado as I type this. They went to visit Jeff and take him his dog Supa, as he is now living in an apartment that allows animals. Dad drove a lot of the trip and was driving when I talked to Mom about 30 minutes ago.

Supa was being trained while Dad was in the hospital. They had a short window to go see Jeff and take Supa to him and a microwave for his new place.
Mom said it was snowing in Colorado Springs, almost a white out. They were only in Colorado 22 hours. Jeff was in great spirits and looked good! Mom said that his apartment was very clean and neat. She was very impressed. She said they went to Petsmart, Target and to dinner. And that's about all the time they had!

Mom really seems to be holding her own throughout this whole process. She is so strong. She said she had a great time in colorado, but she forgot her coat. So she wore one of Dad's! Mom is not a light packer so I can assume Dad got some amusement from the fact that she probably packed her whole closet and not a single coat. I wish I could have gone too. I miss my brother so much. But I am so proud of him for going out into the world and making something of himself. He may not think it, but I think he is so brave. I LOVE THEM ALL!!

As for the Lawthers, we are doing good. Kev's football team seems like they have fina

lly found their groove after a pretty rocky start. These Thursday night Varsity games are weird, but it's nice to have time to hang out on a Friday night! I feel like I have seen my husband so much more this season than previous years... hope that continues! My 8th grade volleyball season is almost over. I am having a great time with these girls! But I am excited for basketball (imagine that) as I will be coaching 7th grade and I really enjoy that age.

I went to Ranger's game Saturday night with my Gma! We had a blast. Who cares about a little rain! God was watching out for us like he always does and magically, there were two unoccupied seats up under the awning so when it started pouring, we were high and dry. We stayed for the whole game and even went back down to our seats to brave the weather for the last 3 innings. I am so appreciative Gma wanted me to take her. Here's hoping we make it to the World Series and she'll need my assistance again!

Hope all is well with everyone!

LOVE YOU ALL!!

My Dad Amazes me!!

I just talked to my Mom and got a great update on my Dad. Sorry I haven't been updating. I have been sick all week and haven't been able to go visit my parents.

Dad went home from the hospital last Friday, so he's almost been home a week. He is doing great. He is still recovering and tired but starting to get back to normal every day tasks. Mom said he drove himself, by himself, to the PO Box the other day. He amazes me.

They haven't gotten the pathology report back yet. Apparently, it doesn't happen as fast as it does on Grey's Anatomy. They are soaking it in a solution so they can cut it in half and look at it under the microscope. And they can't do what they need to do it until it is at the right consistency. Maybe that's TMI but that's where we are at.

Dad went back to the hospital today and they put in his prosthesis larynx!! Mom said that they didn't even have to put him under. They also changed out some the equipment and he doesn't have the neck collar he was having to wear anymore. I hope this new set up is more comfortable for him.

He has a voice now!! His first word was Aww. Then they made his say it for longer. Mom said, more like Awwwww... to see how long his breath would hold out. Mom said they were calling him Edward for the whole process. They asked him to say his name and were really confused when he said, "Buzz". :)

He said a few more things, his full name, Mom's name, counted to 10. He loses his breath when speaking more than before but it will come with practice.

They want him to eat solid foods again! He ate a Whataburger Hamburger and fries tonight with a little soreness, but without any problem!!

They want him to try steak this weekend! AWESOME!!


So.. near future treatment plan involves radiation and chemo... unless the pathology report comes back with something totally different then what the doctors are expecting to see. He has an appointment with the radiologist next week. But probably won't actually start radiation for a few weeks. Haven't met with the chemo people yet, but I think the plan is to start chemo and radiation at the same time.

I think that's all for now. Keep the prayers coming! My parents are amazing people!!! But they can't do it alone.
Any of you who were wanting to bring them food, feel free!! DAD CAN EAT!!!!! And maybe you'll even get to get a few words out of him.

LOVE YOU ALL!!!

My Dad is such a fighter. And if you were to ask him about that, he'd tell you it's just another day. Just another day that he has to choose how his attitude will effect his recovery. I wasn't able to go over to the hospital on Monday because I had volleyball practice after school and then had to work the 7th grade game. I didn't get home until after 8pm and I know that's about the time Dad starts to wind down at the hospital.

I did talk to my Mom and she said that he had a rough morning. They changed out his trach. He has a smaller one now and nothing is protruding from his neck. YAY! It looks really good. But it is one more thing that his body has to adapt to and Mom said that he had a really bad coughing fit after they put in the new trach. He also had some problems with his IV and they had to take it all out and re-stick him. No fun. So it was about 3pm before he was finally able to just relax.

Mom said just after 3pm the nurse came in to get him to get up and walk around for a little bit and Mom let her know all that happened that morning and that Dad needed to rest. The nurse asked Dad if he wanted to walk around a bit and he said OK. She asked Dad if Mom was his wife and he said yes. The nurse told Dad that Mom was very protective of him. Yes, she is... as he is of her. :)

So by the evening Dad was relaxing comfortably and I think had a pretty smooth night.

Yesterday, he had another coughing fit and coughed out a tube that was placed in his throat to make way for the prosthesis that he will get in the future. They had to restitch him back up. Other than that he had a pretty smooth day.

Kevin and I got there around 7:30pm as Aunt Vicki and Uncle Jay were loading up all the supplies Dad will need when he goes home. They brought everything yesterday thinking he'd go home today, but right now, that isn't going to happen.

As soon as we got there, Dad and I went for a walk. The hospital is so pretty but he has to stay close to his room and there isn't much to look at in that area. But he is so strong. He walks around like he hasn't been in the hospital for almost 2 weeks!

He is so close to getting to go home but he has to get his coughing under control. The problem is that the mucus is hard and isn't moving which creates more coughing. They said more water and exercise would break up the mucus so he can get it out and then he'll get to go home. So, that's exactly what he's doing.

Today is a big day, I am at work so I'll have to hear about it from Mom, but today is the swallow test day!!! If he is able to swallow and nothing leaks or causes more problems, he will get to start drinking water and even coffee again!! And solid foods are not too far behind.

He does have a feeding tube in his stomach and he has learned how to use it himself. But that is temporary.

He's such a miraculous man!!!

Please keep the prayers coming!

LOVE YOU ALL!!

Dad and me fresh from our walk:

Dad Update 9/11

Not a whole lot to report from today or yesterday. Dad is doing fantastic! When I got to the hospital yesterday after my volleyball tournament, Dad said Hello to me. They brought him the device that he will be able to press to his throat to speak after his throat heals. In the meantime it has a straw on the end of it that vibrates in his mouth for sound. It's a computerized voice and it's loud. Mom, Dad and I giggled as he practiced with it. But he recognizably said my name and Mom's. Of course it's easier to read his lips but they want him to practice with this device. The speech therapist was very impressed (as she should be) with Dad's progress and how quickly he learned to use the device. They also removed all his drains!

He is expecting a visit from a man who has been living with a trach for a while now and he comes to talk to patients so they can ask questions to someone who has lived through it. I wish I could be there and meet him but I think he's coming tomorrow and my day is jammed packed at work.

Kevin went to Mom and Dad's to take care of puppies. He "bonded" with them, to say the least. He even gave them new nicknames. He calls Macy "the sheep dog", because in his opinion she looks like a sheep or a lamb. And Callie, well, he has dubbed her "the smug jerk". :) Callie wouldn't exactly do what he wanted her to do, like go outside and take care of business. So while on the phone with me, he chased her around and finally picked her up and put her down near the fence with plenty of grass. While he was distracted she took off running and he chased after her again. I only wish I could have been there to witness this.

Mom and I ate dinner at the picnic tables outside and I had great time just hanging out with her. After all, if you remember from my previous email, Dad's weekend plans, according to the hospital were to hang out.

The Bryan, Texas Coady clan came into town this weekend, they picked up Granny and spent some time at the hospital to see Dad. He had a rough night with some blockage in his trach but was resting comfortably when I got there later in the day. It was so great to see my family. It's been too long. My cousin Danielle is engaged and I finally got to see her gorgeous ring!! It is beautiful, I probably would have said yes too, just to wear that ring!!! Although mine's pretty spectacular as well. My hubby did good!

David and Melinda Tate from our PK lake family also came to visit while I was there. We were able to spend some time catching up before they had to get back home. Melinda is also a teacher and it seems that she spent the time in car grading papers. That's dedication my friends!!

I didn't stay long after everyone left. Dad was resting and Mom went to lay down on her cot so I came home to continue the laundry and try to get things ready for the week. There were so many cards in Dad's room today. I looked them over before I left and my favorite one is a Dog saying, "Heal!" :)

Thank you so much for your prayers, calls, texts, emails and visits. Dad is recovering and I appreciate you all so much!

Ok, so maybe I had more to say then I thought. :)

Daddy Update!!

I am at the hospital. Just got here after a long day of teaching and coaching. I was so tired. I really wanted to stay home and go to sleep but I wanted even more to see my dad.

I ran into Ember and Aunt Vicki as they were leaving and they told me Dad looked really good. Thank you guys for coming to visit! Aunt Vicki stayed up at the hospital last night so Mom could go to her friend's birthday dinner. Can't thank her enough!!!

As I walk through the door to Dad's room, I have a renewed sense of energy because my dad looks amazing!!! I swear I hope I got these "bounce back" genes because I want to be feeling this good day 2 after a major surgery. I mean, he was in the ICU for less than 24 hours after surgery and they moved him right back into the room he had before. Only difference, no sign about his left arm! But thats a good thing. He got a chuckle outa that story when I told him about it yesterday. :)

I was finally able to tell my kiddos what's been going on without crying. I teared up a little during 1st period but my eyes were dry as I told the stories through out the rest of the day. My kids were so good for the sub! They just make my heart smile!

As for Dad:

They have removed two of his drain tubes early because he's doing so well! The tube that was in his nose is gone and he even had a sponge bath and his hair washed. He looks band new! Well, brand new for a 60 year old.

Projected go home date is set for Wednesday or Thursday of next week!! They had his schedule on the board and for the weekend it said hang out. I told Dad I liked his weekend plans, but I like Wednesday's plans better. He mouthed, "me too."

Thank you all again so much!! Continue to pray for us! We can feel them and I know god is leading us!!

Love you all!!

Sorry for any typos, I used my thumbs on my iPhone!

Dad Update 9/7

Yesterday's theme... Don't touch the left arm.

I went to work yesterday and continued to get things ready so that I could be off of work at the beginning of next week for Dad's surgery. We had a volleyball game last night and I was also trying to get my brain to focus on that too. During 6th period, around 2pm I got a text from my Mom saying that they moved Dad's surgery and he was already in pre-op. I freaked out a little bit inside. Even though Mom's text said this was good news, my Dad was still having surgery, on his neck. Scary! Then I had to process how good this news truly was. No more recovering just to have another "procedure" (down play it all you want Doctor, it's surgery). This was the big surgery and now he could start recovering, period. And I just had to smile.

My kiddos were working in pairs so they just continued while I called the office to get a sub to come to my room so I could leave. Got a hold of the other volleyball coach and she agreed to coach my team for me that night. And then I was out the door. I am so grateful to my school family for taking care of me. I can't imagine working anywhere else.

Once I was in the car, I called Kevin but he was on the practice field. Left him a message. Picked up my Granny and we headed to the hospital. When we got there Dad was already in surgery... well, at least in the operating room, so I couldn't go see him. But that's OK. We aren't sure what time they actually started the surgery but we think around 4pm. Mom and Dad's life long friends Vicki and Lorne Kane were there and I was so grateful Mom wasn't alone. Which isn't a big deal to her, to wait alone, but it made it me feel better and I know she appreciates it. They stayed through the whole surgery and even bought us dinner. They are just the best people and we really appreciate their kindness and friendship. Kev called me as soon as he got off the practice field and was on his way to the hospital. When I told my Mom she said that he didn't need to come... UH, yes he does Mom! :)

Aunt Vicki and Uncle Jay came by after I took Granny home and I am so grateful to have such a loving and wonderful family! Thank you all so much for the text, calls and visits. You really know how to make a girl feel loved!!!

Around 7pm we got a phone call in the waiting room from the surgeon. The surgery was SUCCESSFUL! They got all the cancer out!!! They didn't have to do as much reconstruction as they had planned for so his recovery will be even swifter. They removed his Larynx and his thyroid and I think 2 lymph nodes. They also began the process for him to have a prosthesis Larynx which is the best option for speech after the surgery of all the options! GOD IS SOOO GOOD! My Daddy is CANCER FREE!! He has to go back in 2 weeks to have his thyroid levels checked to make sure the medication that he will be taking is working. And I am pretty sure he'll still have chemo. I mean, they went through all the trouble of putting the port in and all, but we didn't really ask about that last night.

Last night was all about Thanking God for this wonderful news. After his surgery last week, they put him in the ICU with signs on the walls that basically said, "don't touch the left arm". Just a piece of paper that was printed from a computer. The doctor was planning to take the skin from his arm and put it on his neck so the Dr. didn't want any IV's or blood taken from the left arm . When dad got out of the ICU and we were packing up his stuff he made sure I grabbed the sign so we could take it to his new room.

While he was in surgery, Lorne and I went back to his room to pack up his stuff. He's going to be in the ICU for a few days now and it's unlikely he will be moved back into the room he had before. So as we were packing up the stuff I made sure to grab that sign. Who knew if he'd need it, but it was important before so I didn't want to leave it.

Well, the surgery went so well, that they didn't have to take the skin from his arm. They didn't have to replace the skin on his neck. And I can't wait for him to be alert enough for me to tell him all the good news. I can't wait to tell him, "They didn't touch your left arm."

Long road ahead, but right now, we are basking in the great news.

Keep the prayers coming!

LOVE YOU ALL!!!

Don

Yesterday's theme... Don't touch the left arm.

I went to work yesterday and continued to get things ready so that I could be off of work at the beginning of next week for Dad's surgery. We had a volleyball game last night and I was also trying to get my brain to focus on that too. During 6th period, around 2pm I got a text from my Mom saying that they moved Dad's surgery and he was already in pre-op. I freaked out a little bit inside. Even though Mom's text said this was good news, my Dad was still having surgery, on his neck. Scary! Then I had to process how good this news truly was. No more recovering just to have another "procedure" (down play it all you want Doctor, it's surgery). This was the big surgery and now he could start recovering, period. And I just had to smile.

My kiddos were working in pairs so they just continued while I called the office to get a sub to come to my room so I could leave. Got a hold of the other volleyball coach and she agreed to coach my team for me that night. And then I was out the door. I am so grateful to my school family for taking care of me. I can't imagine working anywhere else.

Once I was in the car, I called Kevin but he was on the practice field. Left him a message. Picked up my Granny and we headed to the hospital. When we got there Dad was already in surgery... well, at least in the operating room, so I couldn't go see him. But that's OK. We aren't sure what time they actually started the surgery but we think around 4pm. Mom and Dad's life long friends Vicki and Lorne Kane were there and I was so grateful Mom wasn't alone. Which isn't a big deal to her, to wait alone, but it made it me feel better and I know she appreciates it. They stayed through the whole surgery and even bought us dinner. They are just the best people and we really appreciate their kindness and friendship. Kev called me as soon as he got off the practice field and was on his way to the hospital. When I told my Mom she said that he didn't need to come... UH, yes he does Mom! :)

Aunt Vicki and Uncle Jay came by after I took Granny home and I am so grateful to have such a loving and wonderful family! Thank you all so much for the text, calls and visits. You really know how to make a girl feel loved!!!

Around 7pm we got a phone call in the waiting room from the surgeon. The surgery was SUCCESSFUL! They got all the cancer out!!! They didn't have to do as much reconstruction as they had planned for so his recovery will be even swifter. They removed his Larynx and his thyroid and I think 2 lymph nodes. They also began the process for him to have a prosthesis Larynx which is the best option for speech after the surgery of all the options! GOD IS SOOO GOOD! My Daddy is CANCER FREE!! He has to go back in 2 weeks to have his thyroid levels checked to make sure the medication that he will be taking is working. And I am pretty sure he'll still have chemo. I mean, they went through all the trouble of putting the port in and all, but we didn't really ask about that last night.

Last night was all about Thanking God for this wonderful news. After his surgery last week, they put him in the ICU with signs on the walls that basically said, "don't touch the left arm". Just a piece of paper that was printed from a computer. The doctor was planning to take the skin from his arm and put it on his neck so the Dr. didn't want any IV's or blood taken from the left arm . When dad got out of the ICU and we were packing up his stuff he made sure I grabbed the sign so we could take it to his new room.

While he was in surgery, Lorne and I went back to his room to pack up his stuff. He's going to be in the ICU for a few days now and it's unlikely he will be moved back into the room he had before. So as we were packing up the stuff I made sure to grab that sign. Who knew if he'd need it, but it was important before so I didn't want to leave it.

Well, the surgery went so well, that they didn't have to take the skin from his arm. They didn't have to replace the skin on his neck. And I can't wait for him to be alert enough for me to tell him all the good news. I can't wait to tell him, "They didn't touch your left arm."

Long road ahead, but right now, we are basking in the great news.

Keep the prayers coming!

LOVE YOU ALL!!!

Dad Update 9/6

Not a lot to update that I know of for today. I went to work so I wasn't camped out at the hospital so I may have missed something. But his procedure went great. His feeding tube is in and the port for chemo as well. He's tired and sore... but looking forward to his meal tomorrow. He's out of recovery and back in his room. I just had a quick visit today. He looked good. Thank you to Ember for coming with me. I enjoyed hanging out with my cousin, as always!!! Ember commented on how normal he looks. It's the truth. And when you see him, you know that everything is going to be OK. I know it's a long road ahead, but I just have a feeling about this....

Keep the prayers coming. Faith has been my rock. Well, faith and my parents. But these things have always been my rock.

God is taking care of us! LOVE TO YOU ALL! And thanks for caring and praying about my Daddy!

Side note: My students were giving presentations today on who they admire. They had to come up with at least 3 different people and then choose one to write about. Their role models ranged from Sponge bob to their parents. From Superman to Dirk... and after all presentations were done in 1st period... on student raised her hand and asked me, "Who do you admire, Coach Lawther?" I had to look at the ground to keep the tears at bay... but I said, "I can't really get into that right now." And then looked up and we continued on. Hopefully tomorrow I can tell her without crying... and if not tomorrow, the next day... but I want to tell her. I want her to know about all the people that inspire me to be the way I am. Including the two most important ones, my parents.

So for those of you out there who are worried about me... don't be. Pray for me. I promise that is all I need. To quote my cousin Erin, I am "taking it like a Coady." Just look at my Granny! And the Demarest side of my family aren't exactly weaklings... Have you met my Gma?? So I guess it's just in my blood.