Valentines Day, Hearts and Love

For those who do not know, Mike had another episode with his heart at work on February 13th and had to be taken to the E.R. via ambulance. We ended up spending the night in the E.R. Observation Unit. Our Valentines Day started out with us waking up in the hospital. No breakfast. Mike was told he couldn't eat just in case they needed to order any certain tests that required that. Out of love and respect I didn't eat either. Around 1:00 they finally brought Mike a tray as it was determined there was no test they could run that he hadn't already had done in the past few months. Since he had food I went down to the cafeteria to get a plate and brought it back to eat with my Valentine. Mike was released shortly after finishing lunch. We went and picked up Mike's truck at his work and got his new prescriptions filled on the way home. We got home, shortly followed by Mama bringing the boys home. Then came supper, which was hamburger helper and steamed corn courtesy of Mike, followed by Finding Nemo (twice). There was no romantic getaway or dinner for two or flowers or candles. There were no expensive gifts. In fact, Mike and I didn't get each other gifts at all (just treats for the boys). And that is OK. We had each other and we were together. We came home and enjoyed family time together. It's the little things. Nothing says love like knowing you have nothing to give but yourself, nothing to do but talk and watch game shows and reruns and nothing to cook but hamburger helper and knowing that is ENOUGH. There is no where else I would rather have been than with my Valentine on Valentines Day... for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health as long as we both shall live. You are stuck with me, Michael Laramore. I love you.

Gabe's Treasure

Today is a new day, and we just wanted to share another huge milestone Gabe has made. :) The blessings just keep on flowing.
A few months back, Gabe would have had absolutely NO interest in this toy, or any other toy for that matter. He showed no signs of functional play. He wouldn't have wanted this toy anywhere near him. The only thing he would really do is sit quietly, hold his blanky and suck his thumb.
Then he went through a "chew on everything" phase. Everything went to his mouth to chew or lick. He would likely have pushed the chest aside and just chewed on the coins and threw them behind his back when he was done with them. We are still working on keeping toys out of his mouth, but now he will stop when we tell him.
What you will see in this video has been a very recent accomplishment. He now sees this toy and will immediately go to inserting the coins into it. He shows GREAT joint attention skills, which is a big thing we have been working on. He sat still in his chair the entire time, and when he was done he handed the treasure chest to me as opposed to just dumping it out of his lap. We have watched this video over and over, because it just makes us smile to remember where he was just months ago and to see how far he has come. Enjoy. :)