Is it just me or did 2011 go by in a flash? It's pretty obvious since my last blog post was almost 1 year ago. What happened? I thought I enjoyed writing? I definitely do, but I discovered my love of sewing is even greater!
2011 was a wonderful success for my little business! I can't believe how one little resolution to try sewing things I was afraid opened a whole new world of fun! DBB has kept me super busy (as well as being a stay-at-home mommy and wife), and I am so grateful for that.
2011 saw no end to my poor Aitana's health issues. In July we had an allergy scare ... after eating some chow mein from a Chinese restaurant we'd never been to before, Aitana went into anaphylactic shock. Swollen lips, throat closing and major vomiting. It was disgusting, but after talking to the paramedic, I've never been more thankful for throw-up. It's what saved her life in the absence of an epi pen. We got to have our first trip to the ER in an ambulance. The best part was that daddy was out of town on business ... um yeah. But thank goodness for Ama and Pa ... they've never gotten her so fast! August brought another trip to the ER. After that, we stopped putting off a visit to an allergist. I think I cried as much as Aitana when she got poked. My sweet girl ... allergic to more foods than I imagined and is severely allergic to all pollens! We tried to give fall a go without shots, but I don't know what I was thinking ... the girl just suffered. December brought on more doctor's appts and finally a decision to just go for the shots. 3 weeks into it and what an amazing difference! Allergy shots are the bomb-diggity (yes, I said it). She is now breathing clearly, no congestion, no ugly crusty nose ... she's not even snoring as she's laying next to me right now. But we are supplied - epi pen, benadryl tablets, nasonex, claritin, nebulizer + albuterol. Phew!
On a positive note, Aitana did great with the mommy and me preschool and we decided she was doing so well, that she needed to be in preschool! So, we started her at my grade school. And boy was that one of the best decisions we've ever made! She is simply excelling! Her teacher even told me to stop teaching her at home! She is learning at a Kindergarten level and just yearns for more! Her most favorite subject is art. This girl can draw! She would do it all day if we let her ... thankfully she incorporates her letters, numbers and simple words into her art at times. I think art lessons are a must for the upcoming year! I just couldn't be prouder of my girl. I am certainly blessed to be her mommy!
Mr. Gabriel ... what can I say? He's "just Gabriel." That's what he says anyway. The boy won't stop growing. He's a sweet little tough guy. A little boy with a man size voice. He has started showing his true colors, and what a personality he has! He is a jokester. We have always said he is our mischief maker and still is, but now he's added a sense of humor to it. I think one day soon we'll be in real trouble with this kids. He is a charmer too ... he knows how to put the pretty ladies under his spell. On top of this, he is wonderfully brilliant. I may be biased, but his pediatrician told us that, too. He is advanced for a boy ... and it's because of his sister's influence. I had no idea he could recognize numbers and letters until just a few weeks ago. He listens and pays attention to EVERYTHING. I am proud of this guy, too. How could I not be? I am blessed times 2!
No, we didn't have any super fabulous great adventures this past year. No vacations or anything like that. But we have truly enjoyed our Disneyland passes and soaking up all things Disney, as well as our zoo pass. We still had a TON of FUN!
2011 wasn't a stranger to some sadness as well ... my grandmother Angie Batista was very sick for most of the year. She passed away at the age of 88 on Aug. 23. We all miss her dearly ... it's just not the same without her. My cousin's husband also died in a car accident this December. We didn't know him well, but he was a good man and made my cousin very happy. She's on my mind everyday and while I may not say it, I pray for peace in her heart and mind as she journey's through this difficult time.
On a happy note, Kinwa and I celebrated our 5 year anniversary ... that went fast and was oh so much fun! Hoping for another 50! The kids and I also got to spend lots of time with my Dad (and mom of course) ... we got to see my dad every Tuesday and have loved it.
Now that my super long catch up post is done ... here is to 2012 and all the adventures it is sure to bring!
Happy New Year!
11 years ago