Jabbing the child

Xav had his 4 y/o needles on Wednesday and after my last attempt at doing this by myself, I organised it for when Duane would be home.  I'd explained to Xav what was going to be happening, and pulled out the parenting big guns - BRIBE!  I'm not fond of using bribes for everyday things, but this is a one off and I was hoping that it would make the whole experience a little less stress full for everyone involved.  I asked him what he would like and he suggested a Mintie as he'd caught be the week before with a mouthful of one.  I'd bought a family pack (although I didn't share with the family!) to munch on as I was churning out a very boring research assignment and he decided that one of those would be a perfect swap for a jab.  I also said he could play on my i-phone (another very special thing that he rarely gets to do)  and have the headphones in.  Now this proposition, of chewing on a mintie AND using the i-phone was enough to actually get him excited and begging every day in the lead up, to actually go to the Dr earlier.

So, with all this excitement and constant nagging to go get his needles, I was feeling very confidant when Duane said he'd have to work late and wouldn't be able to come along.  No problems!  This will be a breeze - I have a willing participant!

Well, he was all big and brave until he realised once we were at the Dr's what was actually going to happen.  He must of glossed over the whole "getting and needle" thing and just focused on minty goodness and technology.  Once he realised though, there was no way he was going anywhere near the nurses station.  I had to carry him screaming his head off and writhing in my arms.  Once in there, I managed to shove a mintie in his mouth calm him down, so I could sign all the forms.  After the mix up last year, I also insisted that I would be checking each vial for the correct medication. Xav, was ok by now.

Until I had to take his top off to get started.  Then he cranked up the screaming again, but this time he was yelling "Check my heart, just check my heart then let me go home"  I'm guessing he thought if we used the stethoscope, we'd forget about the 2 needles that were drawn up and ready to be inserted  There was nothing I could do but bear hug him, whilst he was jabbed simultaneously in each arm.  Over and done with nice and quick, and then the screaming stopped.  Could have had something to do with the stickers and freddo frog the nurse had just handed over.  He smiled, filled up his mouth and skipped his way out.  Over and done with.

Thank goodness that doesn't need to happen again for a while!

Rhyme Time

Every morning in the car on the way to school drop off, the kids and I play a different game.  Some days it's me asking them the names of particular baby animals, eye spy or thinking of a different animal starting with A and then working all the way through to Z.  Yesterday, Grace decided that we'd pick a word and then go through all the other words that rhyme with it.  It's usually nice and simple and I'm often amazed at how clever they are at coming up with an abundance of different words.  As she chose the game today, she got to chose the first word.  She chose "Witch"

You can see where this is going hey?  I knew as soon as she uttered that word that it could get messy.

She came up with "stitch" as the first rhyming word.  Perfect.  But then I could hear Xav over the back going through the letters and adding a different one to the start, trying to work out a word.  Excited, he then yelled out,

"I know Mummy, Bitch rhymes with Witch, doesn't it?"

I was hoping I hadn't heard right as I was fairly sure he'd never hear this word before, so I asked him what that word meant.

"You know, when you are a drummer you have a good Bitch" 

Oh, crap - now I was starting to get nervous about where he had heard the word and what context it had been in.  So I re clarified, asking again what that word meant.

"Mummy, like a drummer.  You know, they have good Bitch - like in music"

Then I clicked.  He was trying to say PITCH!  So after much reinforcement of correct pronunciation, he got it and was still quite happy that pitch rhymed with witch.  Later I realised that I probably should have explained that Bitch really meant female dog, but at the time I was a little taken aback! 

Xavier

I really need to brush the cobwebs out of here, but every time I come in I get overwhelmed!  I've had so much that I want/need to blog about, but trying to work out where to start after such a long break has been weighing me down.  So, I thought I'd just plonk something down to break the ice.

My little boy just cracks me up at the moment!  I meant to blog ages ago about his funny little habit of slipping the word "actually" into every sentence, sometimes twice.  He managed it seamlessly for about a month, but stopped suddenly a few weeks ago.  After quizzing him on it, he said that he'd overheard me telling someone, and was a bit upset so stopped.  Oops!  I "actually" thought it was very cute, and it just proves again to me how strong willed my little boy is - he stopped immediately!

Some other funny little Xavier moments.  He told me the other morning that he wanted to start a rock band and travel the world.  When I asked him where in the world he's be travelling he said "Africa, Trude's place, Logan's place, Nanny's place - all over the world!"  He's allocated himself to the drums and lead singer, whilst Daddy will be on the maracas, Grace on the tambourine and I'm on the keyboard.  We are going to travel around with Xav the self labelled "rockstar".  Sounds like fun hey!

There are many more funny Xav moments, but it's hard to remember them all.  I spend most of the day laughing with him or engaged in deep, thought provoking conversation.  He is the coolest kid to talk too and sometimes the way he analyses and thinks about things just blows my mind!  He's been so patient and understanding over the last few weeks as I've been spending lots of time on assignments and study.  He plays happily with his cars/lego/planes/bike only bothering me only for something to eat.  Sometimes, I can tell he's so desperate for someone to play with though - so I have a break and immerse myself into his little world.  To see his whole face light up and his play get even more animated  when I'm pretending to be the voice for a car or whatever job I've been given, is just beautiful.  He still misses Grace crazily when she is at school, and although he is quite happy to play by himself, when she is here they are in their own little universe together.  They play so wonderfully together, and the thought and imagination that oozes out when they do is beautiful. 

Xav is such a loving and cuddly little boy.  Every day he tells me he loves me (although today he told me that Rockstars don't kiss their mummies!).  Every night, without fail, he still sneak into our bed and hops in beside me for a cuddle - which I love. 

September

September has been and gone.  Spring was here too, although for a brief moment and has now morphed back in to winter.  I've been busy studying, midwifing, parenting, procrastinating and trying to keep all balls in the air.  There was a mid-semester breakdown last week.  I'd had enough of spending the days trying to write essays, construct reports and just generally keep up with the uni work load.  I wanted to be out enjoying the beautiful spring weather with my family, not stuck in the abyss of databases.  My mini breakdown coincided with the "normal" mid semester break on the timetable.  Unfortunately my course doesn't allow for such a frivoulous waste of time, so we just keep ploughing on.  I am taking this week off doing shifts though so I can at least spend some time doing fun stuff with the kids whilst Grace is on holidays.  I still have course work, appointments and a few quick hospital appointments I have to make.  I've also got someone coming up to their birthing day, so that can always change even the best laid plans.  I've completed all my skills and practical exams now, so just needing to finish all my hospital hours, 2 assignments, 1 exam and then I am officially halfway to being a midwife.  Oh, that is a little exciting and very scary.  I've also been fortunate to be invited into the honours program, which apparently is a big deal and something I should be putting some serious thought in to.  Later, when I have time I'll think about it.

Apart from the pulling and tugging in all different directions, I'm loving this semester.  Having so much practical at the hospital is fantastic, and although there are some people to be wary of, most of the midwives are wonderful and so keen to share knowledge with the next wave of midwives.  It's such a hands on course, and I'm still blown away about some of the exeriences that I've already had.

The kids are wonderful.  Grace is enjoying her holidays, spending lots of time with Grandma and Daddy.  Next week though I have some fun adventures planned with her and I.  She had her spring festival on the last day of term and was so excited to be hanging out with the big primary kids. The theme was "Dreamtime" and all the children where asked to wear yellow, red or black.  The older kids danced around the maypole, which was mesmerising and exciting for everyone.   All the classes had been busy coming up with business adventures to develop and sell at the spring markets.  The preppies got off easy and just had to harrass their parents for home made goodies, which were sold at the market for 50 cents per serve.  Some of the wonderful ideas from the older classes were badges, ice blocks, potted vegies and seedlings, second hand clothes, mystery show bags and face painting.  The children were all asked to bring along $5.00 to spend, which managed to go along way as everything was so cheap.  Grandma also came along, but spent most of her money on the children that were busking

She also lost her second tooth.  It had become wobbly on Jaspers birthday and she lost it on Logan's birthday!  It was put out for the tooth fairy, who left another little charm for her bracelet.

Happy 4th Birthday Xav!

Dear Xavier,

You have been so excited to be turning the big 4, and now you are finally here!  Although the time has probably felt like forever for you, it certainly hasn't for your sentimental Mummy.  I feel like it wasn't that long ago that we were synced together in labour and meeting for that first magical time.

The last year has been an adjustment for you, working through the new family dynamics as Grace is now at school and I'm having to spend more time away from you for Uni.  I know it's been tough at times for you, but you are bravely moving forward and forming a different type of normal.  Your growing into such a beautiful little boy, but there is still a part of you that needs that reconnection back to me - which sometimes means you get upset if I have to leave.  When I am around though, you often find me for cuddles and kisses and then you are happy to go off again.  It's not unusual to have this happen every half hour or so, or even just a quick cuddle of my leg as you dash from one activity to another.  I hope you never get to old for cuggles.  You've also wanted to spend more of the night in our bed having cuddles.  I know it's probably because you are missing me during the day, so just catching up on time overnight and I don't mind at all.  I love waking up in the morning, with your arms slung over me and your soft breathe on  my cheek. Every morning you wake so happy and I really cherish our morning talks and snuggles.

You are loving pre-school and have a little group of friends that you have become very attached too.  One little boy especially that has become one of your favourite people.  We hear stories about Deklan all.the.time!  Everything is judged by if "Deklan would like it?"  Deklan for a while only wore shorts to pre-school, so of course, that is all you would wear - even on cold winter mornings!  I had a chat to Deklans mum and from then on she sent Deklan in pants, so then you were happy to wear yours.  We bought you a new pair of running shoes and the first things you said about them was "Deklan is going to love these!"  You were so excited when I said we could invited Deklan along to your birthday, but then I think you were a bit star struck when he did come!  I haven't got the heart to break it to you that Deklan will be heading off to school next year and you have another year of pre-school.  Another little boy that you have become good friends with and who will be in your class in prep is going to be starting up at pre-school soon, so I'm hoping that makes it easier for when Deklan leaves.  You teacher Miss Amanda says you do wonderful at school, and have so much fun.  She's always telling me about the crazy and witty things you have to say and says they are always laughing about you!  Funny little boy!

The love you and your big sister share is beautiful to witness.  There are plenty of disagreements, but most of the time you spend together is in sibling bliss.  You've both gotten to the age where most problems or arguments can be sorted out between you, which makes life very easy for your parents!  I love hearing you both manipulate negotiate with each other, and most of the time it all works out perfectly fine with no adult assistance.  Although you've adjusted to lots more time playing by yourself, you still relish the times you and Grace can engross in some togetherness.  Every morning I feel guilty for hurrying you both up and breaking the wonderfully imaginative games that you create together.  Grace, being the beautiful soul that she is, is still very inclusive of you and not yet showing signs of being too cool to hang out with her younger brother. 

You have such a beautiful imagination, and spend so much of the day playing in your own little world.  Your cars and trains are favourites at the moment, especially the little electric trains you got from Nanny and us for your birthday.  I'm trying to spark your interest back into drawing, but your not fussed and more prefer to be riding your bike or zooming the cars around on the tiles.  Your beloved matchbox cars (all 100 of them!) are still your go to toys.  you can spend hours pushing a tiny little car around the house, pulling up mats as you go to make bumps.  I've always got a few random cars in my handbag, which makes for waiting around or uni visits with me so much easier as you play around on the floor.  You also love cooking, and we often have impromptu cooking days baking some of your favourite recipes - mainly muffins, cakes and biscuits.  You have a real sweet tooth, and unlike your sister who can regulate how much sweet stuff she can eat, you could quite easily gorge yourself forever.  

I'm expecting a growth spurt soon, as it seems you've been the same height and weight for a while now!  I weighed you the other day, and at 4 y.o you weigh 17kgs (in Pj's) and are 105cm tall.  I looked back over Grace's book and at the same age she was closer to 20kgs and 115cms tall!  You are such a lightweight to pick up, and as you are so small, I'm able to carry you for small times if you need it.  You've stepped up the amount of food you want lately though, so I'm expecting some growth to happen! 

Xav, you are my little shining beam who lights up our life.  Having you around is never boring, whether we are laughing at your quick wit or pulling our hair out with your crazy ways - it's always fun.  I love you so much Xav, and the last 4 years have been some of my favourite as I've watched you grow and bloom into a confidant little boy.  I feel so blessed to be your Mother, and also for the special bond that we have together - it's overwhelming sometimes how connected I feel to you. 

I love you Xav xx

Date night

Grace had a social dilemma tonight.  Should she attend the "guaranteed to be awesome" bowling birthday party with Mstr Cooper or attend her schools bush dance.  After much deliberation, the thought of boot-scooting the night away with all her school friends won over.  Duane was going to stay home with Xav and watch the first game of the Suns (happening just up the road) and Grace and I were going to kick up our heels.

Except.  I got damn sick.  I've felt like I've been fighting off a cold for the last week, but then Thursday night I came down with body aches and a sore head.  Friday it turned into a full blown head cold, with sinus pain thrown in for good measure.  After the school run and pre-school drop, I came home, and changed back into my Pj's then spent the rest of the day on the couch sleeping, drinking loads of water and popping echinacea pills.

Today has been along the same lines.  I was hoping to feel better by this afternoon, but didn't so sent Duane along to the bush dance in my place.  I let Xav pick dinner, and he chose Pancakes - so that's what we had.  We cooked pancakes then ate them with Jam and maple syrup - Xav was in heaven!!!  Then he wanted to watch his birth Dvd (it's something he like watching often) so we had a cuddle a re-visited that magical time in both of our lives.  Afterwards we got into our Pj's then headed out to the ice-cream shop (Mc d's!) drive-through for a soft serve for Xav and a caramel sundae for me!  To complete the romanticness of our date, we headed up to the top of the outlook to watch the Gold Coast lights, and eat our ice-cream.  Xav loved sitting up in the front seat of the Torago, eating his ice-cream and pointing out all the familiar landmarks.  We could also see the new AFL stadium all lit up and ready for the inaugural game which was starting up soon.  I have got some photos to add in here, but that would require getting off the couch and I really can't be bothered.

**Duane has just walked in the door with a very exhausted Grace in his arms.  They apparently had a wonderful night eating, dancing and mingling.  Duane with all the yummy food and basically did a progressive dinner - loaded baked potato, soup and bread, curry, cupcakes and popcorn.  Grace had a a blast dancing with all her friends and running amok around the school in the dark.  I'm upset I missed it because of this damn cold, but there is always next year.

If I was a good blogger......

So many things have happened over the last few months, and I'm completely behind in blogging about them.

I'd come to the page and be so overwhelmed with what I hadn't blogged, I'd just close the page. 


I wanted to blog about Xavier's Autumn festival at pre-school and how excited he was to have Duane and I with him for the afternoon.  He was so proud to have us sit on the little wooden stumps eating the vegie soup and bread the class had spent the day preparing.  He had our undivided attention, as Grace was being picked up by a friend so we could spend some time with Xav. It's so lovely to see him become more confidant at pre-school, and not just be in Grace's shadow.

I also wanted to write about Grace's Autumn festival and how fantastic and wonderful that was.  Watching her with all her friends do a performance for the parents; the kids showing off their new Italian skills and singing some songs in the language.  Then spending the morning doing different Autumn themed activities with Grace who was so proud to have not only Xav and I, but Grandma, Trudy and Jasper joining for the celebration. Everyone bought a Autumn inspired dish to share for lunch, and we sat out in the playground in the sun eating all the beautiful, home-cooked food!  Grace and Grandma had made apple crumble together, which is the kids favourite and judging by the clean plate, everyone else enjoyed it too!  We ate warm curries, rice, apple pie, pumpkin scones, pumpkin soup and freshly baked bread.  It was delicious and a wonderful way to celebrate the last day of term for the Preppies.

I would have then blogged about the holidays, and how much fun it was to have Grace home again.  She did ask on the first day if she could go back to school, but that was the only glimmer of boredom!  The 3 weeks were packed with so mach fun and adventure, and I loved having my beautiful girl here every day!  We went to parks, visited friends, spent days at Dreamworld, shopped, ate out, hung around the house, did craft, had some play dates and spent some wonderful time together.  We did a big trip up to Brisbane with a group of Grace's school friends, going up on the train and visiting the Museum, GOMA and Southbank parklands.  It was a crazy busy day, with 12 children all up and 6 adults - alcohol was definitely talked about for next time we plan such a huge event!  The kids were wonderfully behaved and spent the train ride sitting in their sits talking and finger knitting - which caused a few glances and comments from fellow travellers!

I would also liked to have blogged about our 5 night camping trip to beautiful Yamba.  The caravan park we stayed in was a kids paradise with a plethora of activities, even for when the weather was a little crappy.  There were 2 pools (1 with awesome kids slides), jumping pillow, 3 outdoor playgrounds and 1 inside playground.  Plus all the natural attractions surrounding like the sandy river, which was great for crab hunting and shallow water splashing.  We did have a bit of rain, especially heavy on one night that was a little annoying, but all in all it was great!  It certainly was too cold for me to brave bathers and swim, but lucky the dad's were all keen to take the kids swimming every day.  The kids certainly didn't care about the temperature, and were nagging at every opportunity to go swimming.  There were a few unfortunate events though, mainly Trudy getting a diarrhoea bug and Murray spending a night in hospital with hives.  Lets just say Trude was very thankful that she had her own private ensuite to contaminate use.  There was plenty of glen 20 sprayed around and diligence with all hand washing, which seemed to save it being passed on.

It was a great trip though, made even better by having a good group to go with.  The kids all played wonderfully, with barely any disagreements with each other.  They made friends with a little girl next door to us, and spent so much time playing with her. Her parents had a great tent set up and would invite all our kids over for movies after lunch, which gave us all a break and some quiet time!

There are so many beautiful parts around Yamba that we didn't get to explore, so a trip will definitely be planned for there again!  It would be a fantastic spot to visit in summer as there are so many wonderful water activities to do, so we might head there instead of Lennox next year.

I'd liked to have also blogged about Mothers Day - a very special day for me!  Firstly, a few days before, Xav's preschool had a Mothers day morning tea.  Xav loves the time I get to spend with him at his school, and was very proud to serve me a variety of cakes, scones and slices alongside a beautiful heart mobile that he'd made for me.  It was also so lovely to catch up with all the other Mums, and start to get to know them better, just as I did for Grace when she was the same age.  I bet Xav's 'best friend' Deklan's Mum, who told me her son is always talking about Xav, as is Xav about her son!  Xav got a new pair of runners, and he was going to be wearing them to school for the first time today.  He was so excited and told me "Deklan is going to love my shoes"  I'm just so happy that he has adjusted so well to not having Grace there, it was hard for him for a few weeks, but he loves going to school now and always just sends me off with a kiss and a wave!  He even tells me now that he doesn't want me to stay for morning circle!

~~Hand made and hand sewn byGrace for me xx~~

I would have also blogged about the beautiful present Grace so proudly presented me on Mothers Day.  She's been working very hard for weeks on making me my very own, completely Grace-made bookmark.  She'd made the felt from fleece, which is a long process.  She's then blanket stitched all around the outside herself.  I love the obvious stop and start marks on the sewing, it shows how every day she did a little bit.  It's beautiful and such a keepsake, and doing a wonderful job of being used as it was designed.  She's also made me a card which had one side written in English and then the other in Italian

"Augurissimi a le mamma bella con amore da Grace"

"Best wisshes to you beautiful Mum with love from Grace"

The other lovely present I received was a cornflower blue pair of ugg-boots, as requested!  Although they are beautiful and warm, nothing beats the handmade presents on Mothers day.  I'll certainly treasure the ones I got this year.

If I was being diligent, I would have also blogged about my first follow through birth as a student midwife.  It was amazing, beautiful, daunting and nerve-racking - all rolled into one!  It certainly was a miracle though and reinforced my commitment to being a midwife.  I've got another lady due in the middle of June, so back to sleeping with my phone close by in case the call comes in the middle of the night.  It's exciting and exhausting being so connected to the phone, being nervous that you'll miss the call and miss the birth. 

Uni is going well and I'm on the down hill ride to exams.  I've submitted all assignments for this semester and am just waiting anxiously for grades to come back.  I've got an exam worth 70% of the course in a little over 3 weeks, so I'm going to be head down trying to fill my brain with information about pharmacology and pathophysiology.  All exciting, but brain-draining.  I've also got another exam worth 50%, but I'm not as stressed about that one.  I had my clinical practical exam yesterday and passed easily, no actual mark though as it's just a pass/fail.  I'm still hoping to pull at least distinctions for all 3 subjects, but I've definitely not had the time to dedicate to study.  I only really have Thursday and Fridays for school work (as I have Xav the other days), but I encourage my women to roster their antenatal appointments on those days.  The appointments can take FOREVER, so sometimes the whole day is written off with waiting around and I've got no school work done!  I'm trying to lower my mark expectations though, as I don't think I can keep up the good marks with such a full on course.  Although the coursework is challenging, juggling the rest of the clinical requirement is what is hard.  I can't even imagine how next semester is going to go as I'll be adding into the mix 2 permanent shifts at the hospital EVERY week!  I'm looking forward to it though, and am confidant that it will be fine.

There so much else that has happened over the last few months, but that's the main stuff.  I miss blogging and writing about the small moments, not just the big things - so I'm going to try to get back into it.

The sweetest thing...

Tonight, my little boy said one of the sweetest things I think I've ever heard.

I was busy getting ready to go out to a Women's circle meet (a whole other blog post - amazing!).  I was rushing about; getting kids ready for bed, getting dressed, finding yoga mats and reading stories.  Xav was lingering in the hall way and reached out for me to pick him up as I passed.  He loves being carried around on my hip and getting cuddles (yep, the nearly 4 y/o - lucky he's a lightweight!), so I scooped him up and we had a big squishy cuddle.  I popped him down and was about to head on to the next job, when he whispered,

"Do you know what my heart says Mummy?"  

"No, what does it say Xavie?"  I asked.

He placed his hand on his chest and lifted it up and down, in time to the beat.

"It says Mum, Mum, Mum, Mum, Mum, Mum, Mum."  He whispered in a very earnest little voice.

I melted.  And had to scoop him up for more delicious little boy cuddles.

This little soft moment was had and over soon enough though.  He squirmed down form my arms and was was back to playing car crashes with his matchbox cars - complete with loud, raucous noise.

Bedtime stories

I had such a full on week last week, I felt I was barely at home.  I was out 5 nights in a row, all uni related.  Plus having to attend meetings and appointments during the day.  Toss in actual study time and it was HECTIC!

I'm trying to get as much as possible done now, so I have plenty of time for my caseload women, assignments and exam preparation.  I knew this year would be busy, but really didn't think about how 1 antenatal appointment has the potential to wipe out 4 hours on average - factoring in driving time, parking time, waiting time, appointment time etc.  Considering I have 30 antenatal appointments, 6 births and 18 postnatal visits to attend this year - that's a lot of time!  Not even taking into account I will be adding on top of that load with 2 hospital shifts per week in a few months time.

Thanks goodness I love it though, and have absolutely no reservations that this is the career I want.  It's everything plus more than I could imagine and it feels fabulous (and exhausting!) to be on my dream path!  I'm also re-motivated after getting my last essay results back - 94% HD!  Hopefully I can use the inspiration to start the next few I have due soon!

I'd had a draining day today, so spending some wind-down time putting the kids to bed was welcomed.  It's at bed-time that I get to hear all about Grace's magical days at school.  She bubbles over with excitement as she tells me all the fun and wonderful things she gets up to, and how much she absolutely loves going.  Actually, on Saturday she was a little sad and when I asked what was wrong she said she was missing school.  I'm still amazed that she has adapted and fitted in so well, she's only of the only kids to not have a day off from sickness or being too tired!  I think she'd be devastated not being able to go!!

So tonight, after stories, she told me about her favourite part of the day.  She said at rest time, all the children layed down with their pillows (they've actually all hand sewn and embroidered their own, something Grace is extremely proud of!), and Miss Pam gave each of them a "journey" crystal to hold.  They then quietly layed down and took a journey into their minds, then each child had a turn telling the class about what they'd seen.  Grace so intricately told me all about the purple bird she'd seen in "her imagination" and she was so excited that even tonight she could close her eyes and the bird was "right there!"  She's always been able to remember dreams, or describe different things she's seen - but she was so amazed that she could imagine something so clearly and be able to recall it whenever she wanted!  What a wonderful skill to enhance and develop - imagination! 

I have a little going to bed story from Xav too.  I was laying with him, answering his many questions (we are going through another one of Xav's "Why?" periods!) about "Why do we have a heart? How come it always goes and never stops? Do dogs have hearts? etc etc.  After I answered them all, he said the sweetest thing.  "Mummy, I have little boxes in my heart and the biggest one is mostly for you"  I'm not sure where he got that from, maybe he's paraphrasing me as I always tell him there is a little piece of him inside my heart always.  Xav is one of the cheekiest, wittiest and funniest kids, but it's times like this I remember how adorable and sweet he is too. 

Hectic

Today was always going to be a busy day, with no wriggle room for things not going to plan.  Stupid me should have realised that by actually making a plan, I was setting myself up for problems.

The morning started fine, although Duane and I were both a little tired from the previous nights antics.  It was a ridiculously hot night and I even resorted to using the air-con (something I'd been avoiding since the whooping $500 power bill I got last week).  I managed a nice sleep for the first half of the night, with 2 little squirts joining us in the cool comfort around 11.30pm.  What I didn't enjoy though was the crazy thunderstorm that started about midnight and sent the dogs into a barking frenzy.  They wouldn't calm down, and after getting up to them a few times I was wide awake, so headed to Grace's room and read for a few hours.  Not the best choice when I have a son who's decided 5.30am is a wonderful time to be up and insists I get out of bed the same time he does. 

The morning started off fine - all to plan!  I knew that I'd be going to a home birth meeting today, so whipped up a batch of banana, carrot and honey muffins before 6am.  Grace, as usual, got herself dressed and ready for school without me even reminding or nagging her - she is always so eager to go! Xav was his usual reluctant self, that boy would stay in his Pj's all day if I'd let him!

After dropping Grace at school, Xav and I headed to the local community hall for our double vaccination shots.  I was getting my last hep b for uni requirements and Xav was getting the one that was stuffed up last year.  I had mentioned to him last week we were getting it done, and based on his reaction I knew he wasn't impressed.  So, I did "forget" to remind him until we were safe within the walls of the hall and there was no chance of an escape.  After explaining the previous stuff up again, and once again being told how terrible it was that that happened, it was our turn.  I figured Xav would be best going first, as he knew what was going on and wasn't going to be calmed down by watching me getting stabbed before him.  I ended up having to bear hug him whilst the nurse jabbed him in the arm, and him screaming all the time.  Lucky the line up was full of tiny babies who had no idea what the older boy was screaming about!  I had a freddo frog ready for when he finished, so he sucked on that in between sobs.  Mine was next, but by the look of all the fluid running down my arm and squirting on the desk, I have my suspicions that all the vaccine went in.  The nurse did also comment that she had leaked a little, but Xav's sobbing kept us distracted.  I'm just hoping that when I have serology done next month, I've got enough antibodies and don't have to go back for more.

It's policy to sit and wait 15 mins before leaving.  I'd timed it perfectly; 9am needles, leave by 9.15 and at the home birth meeting by 9.30am as it was just around the corner.  Xav and I were sitting on our uncomfortable plastic chairs waiting for the obligatory 15 mins to be over, going through the photos and videos on my Iphone (love that phone!) when Xav told me that he wanted something to eat.  I said that we had some food in the car, and I'd get it for him soon.  He said again he was hungry and came over white and clammy.  I knew instantly he was about to vomit, so immediately cupped my hands and caught the flow.  Now, considering he'd had porridge for breakfast plus the freddo as a bribe, it was a very gross mixture.  A few more heaves and I was covered up to my elbows, all over my clothes, pooling on the floor and Xav had bits all over him.  I called the RN and she came over with a bowl and some wipes.  Xav was still not looking well, so they tried to lay him down with an ice pack - which was not the easiest thing to do on such uncomfortable chairs.  He was a bit distressed from the vomiting, so didn't want anyone but me touching him.  She wanted to take his pulse, but he wasn't cooperating, so I did it and it was fine.  It took a while for him to get colour back, so we spent the next hour waiting and watching.  Finally he seemed better so we could head out, after a quick clean up in the bathroom as I tried desperately to remove the "vomit eu toilette" aroma wafting from us both.

By this time I'd well and truly missed my 9.30am meeting, but there was a similar one on at 1pm, so I planned to make that one.  Next on the agenda was a trip up to Logan uni to put in all my clinical documents.  I really couldn't be bothered taking everything up there, but the alternative was getting everything witnessed and signed by a JP, so I figured a 2 hour car trip might have been the better option.  Xav was not up to doing much after his little ordeal, so he curled up in his seat with blankie and had a sleep in the air-conditioned comfort of the car.  Once up at uni, I had to get everything photocopied so trudged up to the library.  It tuned out to be a great day to visit, as the normally sleepy campus was alive with stalls giving out lots of free things.  I scored a bunch of pens and highlighters and Xav was given some coconut juice drinks and some small packets of chips.  He loved the coconut drinks, but complained that the samboy plain chips were "too spicy", which just meant I got them all!

We got back to our house by 12.45pm, just enough time for a toilet stop and a quick drink.  Then it was straight back in the car so we could make our 1pm appointment.  I wasn't really sure what to expect for this meeting with the Homebirthers.  Part of our assessment is attending 10 hours of community experiences that pregnant or new parents would go to.  I'm extremely interested in home birth, so figured I'd include that as most of my hours.  I had nothing to be worried about, it was awesome.  I'd missed the early session that's more a support group, with lots of advice and everyone sharing their pregnancy/birth experiences.  The afternoon session was more on parenting, with one of the older Mums giving a little talk on her parenting journey and what worked or didn't work for her family.  It was lovely and casual, with the kids all paddling in the water close by or playing together with the toys.  Xav found a huge tractor to play with, so spent all his time with that.  My idol Midwife was there too, so it was lovely to get to know her better as we talked about parenting and different ways to discipline.  So many of the Mum's there were connected to Silkwood too, which just makes me feel even more content with our decision to send our kids there as it's such a community of like-minded people. 

We left there just in time to pick Grace up from school at 2.50pm.  I was excited to see her, but apparently the feeling wasn't mutual as she burst into tears as soon as she saw me.  I ran over to her, thinking something bad had happened.  Seems all is fine, she was just expecting us to do the drive by and pick up today.  We've never done that before, but I did remember she had asked if she could do it but I'd forgotten.  Seems she's too cool to have her parents pick her up already!!  There is a group of her friends that are doing it, so I've promised her tomorrow I will not get out of the car, but swing by the pick-up zone so Miss Pam can put her in!

In the madness of getting our injections, I'd hastily said to Xav that I'd take him on a train ride if he let the lovely lady shove the needle in his arm.  I thought he'd forgotten, but seeing the train line on the way up was enough to jog the little elephants memory.  I managed to wrangle out of it then and there, but suggested we go once we'd picked Grace up from school.  He was fine with that arrangement.  After picking Grace up, we got Duane and then headed to the train station.  I took the kids, and Duane drove to the next stop to wait for us.  The lovely ticket man put the kids on my free, seen as how we were only going to the next stop.  Xav was beside himself with excitement and was chattering all the way. "Do you like trains Grace?  I like trains.  This is a big, long train isn't it?  It's going very fast too.  I love trains!"  t was a quick 6 minute trip, but enough to appease the children.  Duane picked us up the other end, then we did a quick trip to the mall for Nicole's birthday present for tomorrow.  Then it was home for a quick dinner, bath and the kids in bed asleep by 7pm.  I'm not going to be far away either.  My days are so busy at the moment, trying to combine everything is doable but very tough and draining.  The heat is not helping either, so I'm looking forward to it cooling down and hopefully me getting myself into a better routine with study.

Craft & babies

Today was Xav and my first day together in our new routine!  We dropped Grace at school and then headed up with some of the other Mum's to the parent craft group.  It was a stinking hot day, so instead of sewing and working on the beautiful deck, we all headed inside into the playgroup room to enjoy the glorious air-con!  Xav was a bit reluctant to leave me to start with, but after a few minutes he buddied up with one of Grace's friends younger brothers and they had a great time.  I got to sit, chat and sew in peace, whilst Xav and Bryn played with all the wonderful playgroup toys.  They set up trains, read books, played with the kitchen and zoomed all the cars around.  It was so lovely to see Xav happily mingling with someone his own age, especially since lately he thinks all 3 Y/o's are "babies". 

I love catching up with all the other Mum's, whilst getting making things for the upcoming craft fair.  Today we made 3D felt trees, which are so easy and yet look so great - I just have to get one done for home now!

Xav was very enchanted by little baby "Skyla", and asked me on the way home if we could have a baby too.  I said maybe, but he'd probably have to ask his Daddy.  He's set on it though, and asked another 5 times - even after lunch once we were home.  It was so sweet to hear my little boy ask "Can we have a baby Mum?  It would be nice to have a baby in the house"  Of course, being the curious little boy that he is, also asked how babies get inside the tummy.  A simple response about eggs and Mummies and Daddies making a decision to have a baby, was enough to keep him happy.  He did also say that he wants to see the baby being born and he reminded me that I will have to take my clothes off when that happens!!  He has always loved babies, but I was still quite surprised with how insistent he's been about us having another one! 

I'm hoping he doesn't forget to ask Duane when he gets home, I can't wait to hear his answer!  I'm thinking that as Grace, Xav and I are all keen - majority should rule!

One other promising thing that happened today, is I got to have a chat to one of the Independent Midwives and she's going to see if she can line up some home births for me to attend as a student!!!  I'd love to get experience outside of the hospital setting and in a more continued care environment - so I'm very excited!!

Anyway, I'm slowly melting - it's ridiculously hot and humid here today.  So I'm just waiting to pick Grace up and then we are heading over to her school friends house that has a pool (tip: pick the friends that have pools!!) for a swim. 

Adjusting

The last few weeks have been big in the Penney Household.  The biggest change has been Grace starting Prep and me starting back at Uni, in a much more intense and time consuming course than last year.  We've also had Mum staying with us, which has been great, but she's gone back to Tas now - and everything changes again.

Grace has handled everything brilliantly, settling into Prep with way more enthusiasm and contentment than I could imagine or hope.  She's had 2 full-time weeks so far, and not once complained or even jokingly said she doesn't want to go.  I'm so relieved and amazed that she has done so well, it sure makes the transition 100 times easier.

~~Morning circle time at Prep~~

I've settled back into Uni ok.  I've been up at Logan Uni for the last 2 weeks, with only 1 more week of intensive lectures to go.  Then it's all online from home and also attending 6 women through their pregnancy, birth and postnatal period over the next 6 months.  I've already got 1 confirmed follow through, who is due in 3 weeks - meaning I've already attended an antenatal appointment and have to make sure I can get another 2 in before the birth!  It's very exciting though, knowing that in roughly 3 weeks I'll hopefully be getting a late night call to head into hospital and might even have the privilege of catching my very first baby!  They apparently like to throw us in the deep end - sorts out the dedicated ones from those just doing it cause they "love babies"  Attending appointments also means I have the pleasure of experiencing the wonderful wait times of the hospital, nothing like running consistently 2 hours late for a 10 minute appointment to get you frustrated! 

It did work quite well this week though, as Mum dropped me off and then headed to the Rockpools with Xav.  It was so quiet down there, so Xav got most of the place to himself.  Apparently he wasn't interested in playing with anyone else though, too enthralled in floating leaves and flowers down the sloping side.  Mum did have a little embarrassing moment with him though,  He got a splinter in his finger, but wouldn't let her near it to get it out.  He was getting tired and asking for light touches (lucky she was pre-warned about his fetish!), so she cradled him in her arms as he started to fall asleep.  A few moments passed, then he sat bolt upright and yelled "I don't want to drink milk from your booby"  Mum was mortified, as there were people around and probably wondering who the freaky Grandmother was trying to breastfeed her 3 y/o grandson - I'm fine with wet nursing, but that might be taking it all a little too far!  Hence the reason why in this photo, he was sleeping a little lower than breast height!

~~Xav having a snooze at the Rockpools with Nan~~

But, the person having the hardest time adjusting to our new routines is Xavier.  He is really missing Grace and is craving time with her.  Of a morning he's glued to her side wanting to play, and the same again come pick-up time.  They've slept together for the last 3 weeks whilst Mum was here, and supposed to have gone back into their own beds yesterday.  However, tonight I over heard Xav creep into Grace and ask if he could sleep with her, as "Mummy has Daddy to cuddle of a night, and I really like cuddling you Grace"  Being the wonderful and kind big sister that she is, she made room and welcomed him in. 

I'm really feeling sorry for Xav though, even though I know he'll adjust and be fine.  After last year being so excited about going to pre-school and barely acknowledging me as I left, to now feeling like the new kid and reluctantly letting me leave.  He has a few kids he knows, but most of his friends have started Prep this year.  He gets on so well with the older kids, and although being only 3, has always been so accepted by Grace's friends.  He keeps complaining that the 3 y/os at Pre-school are "babies" and even now spends his time trying to mix with the older kids.  I'm always told by his teachers that he is so easy to have around and always has a fun day, but he just doesn't seem to be his confidant self.  He's not unhappy, probably just re-working his place in the pack.  I think Grace & all the girls where his security blankets and now he's learning to cope without that.

Dancing is something else that's making me sad for my little boy.  All the girls (Grace, Leah and Cass) have been moved up to the next room - leaving Xav behind once again.  Last week was their first time back, and he was adamant that he's not going dancing by himself.  He really wants to participate though, and said he would if Malia or Logan came too - so now just to convince them!  He loved dancing last year and is desperate to do another concert, so I'm hoping that even if they don't come, he'll get the courage to go on his own.

I'm banking on not next week but the week after, things will start to work themselves out.  I've got uni all next week in Logan, meaning I'm away from 7.30am - 6pm every day except Wednesday.  The week after I'm home though, so Xav and I'll have lots of time together, working out a routine for us.  Last week, I was mourning Grace not being here and reluctant to plan anything as I didn't want her to miss out.  But, I've come to the realisation that this is just how life is right now, and Xav and I can have a different kind of fun together without Grace.  It's not that I don't want to do all the fun things with Xav, It's just been so long that I've had a twosome to take everywhere and it feels kinda weird and wrong with 1 missing.

First week of Prep

First week of Prep a HUGE success!!

There were tears on the first - lots from me and a few from Grace, but the rest of the week went smoothly and even better than I expected.  It was only in the last few weeks of pre-school that Grace was happy to wave goodbye without the clinging and pleading for me to stay longer, so I am amazed and proud that this week at Prep has gone so well.

We had quite the fan club attend Grace's first day (Grandma, Nanny, Duane, Me and Xav), so that in itself was enough to make the situation overwhelming.  Grace was keen to go though, getting ready nice and early and excited to meet up with her friends.  We got to the school at 8.30am, and mixed in with the other parents and children who were showing varying degrees of nervousness and excitement.  Grace was sticking close to Duane, but was happy to tag along finding her bag-cubby and unpack her lunch box and drink bottle. 

It wasn't long till Miss Pam rung the bell and the kids were all told to change from there outside shoes into their inside slippers and come inside for Morning Circle.  Once in the room, they all had to find their symbol which was in front of a cushion all layed out in a big circle in the middle of the room.  Then it was a welcome talk and straight into the morning song that gets sung every day.  Then there is a goodbye song, and the parents get kissed, cuddled and waved goodbye!  I was still wearing sunglasses at this stage, which were perfect to hide the tears that were slowly sliding down my face.  I felt bad later though, as I really wanted to have a little chat to Grace before I left, but didn't want her to see me so upset.  She was a little clingy and some tears were springing, but she was happy to sit back down and watch the story that Miss Pam had conveniently started to tell.

It was just so overwhelming and emotional, sending my little baby girl off to school and knowing that she'd be there for five whole days for about 13 years.  Unbelievable.

The rest of the week went wonderfully.  There were no more tears, just eagerness and excitement to get to school, including lots of nagging from about 7am about when we can get going! 

It's been a bit hard getting out of her what she has been doing but she's slowly revealing the mystery that is the school day.  I know they do Yoga everyday, and she's been showing us all the poses she is learning.  They also have a dry creek bed that they fill up with water 2 days a week for the kids to play in - how cool is that!.  We have been reminded to pack a rash vest and swimmers on those days so that lots of cool water fun can be had!  They are also learning Italian, and have been reading "Pinocchio" in the language.  She's talked about drawing, playing in Home corner, reading, hearing lots of stories, playing outside, singing, dancing and generally having a fantastic time.  The kids are also given the opportunity for a rest after lunch, which Grace did on the first 2 days.  I was prepared for her to be exhausted after the first few days, but having the rest meant she was fine and wide awake till 8pm!!!  She didn't sleep the last 3 days though, and although she is a lot more tired, she's not as feral as I expected. 

Seeing her in her little uniform is beyond adorable.  Although she is one of the youngest in her class (the children have to have turned 5 before starting), she is one of the tallest and definitely didn't have the problem of an over-sized uniform!  Each day is a different colour, which works wonderfully as I only have to wash the uniform once a week! 

~~Monday is Purple day~~

~~Tuesday is Red day~~

~~Wednesday is Yellow Day~~
(We took Grace's friend Sairayah to school today as her Mum had an early appointment)

~~Thursday is Orange day~~

~~Friday is Green day~~

Morning tea is provided and the kids are all involved in the preparation, which is fantastic as it means I only have to send lunch - bonus! Monday they made rice with beans,seaweed and soy sauce (big hit with Grace!), Tuesday was fresh fruit with Jalna natural yoghurt, Wednesday they made fresh bread, Thursday was carrot cake and Friday was apple crumble.  I'm salivating over it all!!

She is eating like a horse though, and after the first day requested that I put more food in please!  Seems a sandwich, snack cup of yoghurt, capsicum, cucumber and cheese is not enough lunch for my growing girl!  She's been loving everything I've packed though, so I've kept it the same and just added some watermelon and banana bread.  The lunch tins still coming home empty, but she says it's enough now.

Morning aren't even as bad as I thought they'd be.  Both kids are getting up about 6.30am, having breakfast then getting an hour or so of play time together - something Xav is really missing.  It's a big change for those 2 to not be together every day, and he is struggling a bit with it.  The first day he was quite happy, but the next few he kept saying how much he missed Grace and asking constantly if it was time to pick her up yet.  It's also made him reluctant to go to pre-school as he wants her to come with him.  He's been fine once he's there and having lots of fun, but just says in the morning "I am NOT going to school today"  He is also getting very upset when he can't see Grace if we are out.  This afternoon we were at the rock pools after school, and he got really distressed when Grace walked over to the playground and he couldn't see her.  It's sweet, but I do feel really sorry for him, however I'm determined to have lots of beautiful Mummy-son time on the days we have together.  I'm sure he'll be fine, it's just a big adjustment after having her by his side for the last 3 years.

I've worked out the time we have to leave home perfectly, 8.30am!  It's a 7min drive door-door meaning we arrive in perfect time to pack things away and go into the class room at 8.45am - I love living so close and not having any traffic!!  Pick up is similar, we leave here at about 2.35pm, ready for Miss Pam to bring out the children at 3.50pm.  There's also the option of driving straight up to the pick-up zones between 3.00pm and 3.10pm, where Miss Pam will open the door and buckle the child in and you can keep going!  This also can be done for morning drop-off - perfect for all the Mum's with new little babies, especially in this horrid heat we have had lately.

I'm just so proud of how wonderful Grace has taken to being at school.  I was unsure how she'd go as she's quite a sensitive and emotional little girl, who loves to be with Duane and I.  She's confidant though, and is adapting to the new environment and situation with absolute ease.  I'm hoping next week goes just as smoothly.

13th January

Xav found a stash of foil wrapped chocolate soccer balls that we must have had for his party last year.  He, of course, wanted one right away.  This is him sulking off after I'd told him no, he wasn't having a chocolate at 9am in the morning.  Although he was being whiny, I find this picture utterly adorable.

Finally some clear weather, which is not just a relief for us but for those affected by the big floods.  The kids spent the afternoon having running races on the freshly mowed lawn (BTW, Duane won the "mowing championship!)

Then tonight was a candle-lit dinner for 2.  The kids love eating by the soft glow of the candle light, so every night we do it.  The highlight is blowing it out, which can only be done once dinner is finished - makes eating the meal generally fuss free too!

Such sweet sibling love xx

12th January

The rain was still bucketing down last night and today, which meant that the bridge to Duane's work went under water - Yay!  Daddy has the day off!!!

We spent the morning at Robina mall, escaping the rain and buying the last few school supplies for Grace (Eeek - only 3 and a bit weeks to go!)  Whilst we were there I ran into a playgroup Mum who is an optometrist, and she just happened to also have an opening within the hour.  I'd been wanting to get Grace's eyes tested before school, so this was a perfect opportunity.

Grace has a few friends now that have glasses, so she was actually hoping that she could get some too.  She was a bit shy with Kate at first, but did all the tests wonderfully (Kate even commented that she was doing things that most 5 y/o's can't normally do).  She is mostly fine, but is a bit long-sighted (like me), but it could just be something that she grows out of or she will need glasses for in the future.  We are just going to keep an eye on her, watching our for eye strain headaches or bringing things very close to read, then reassess.

We made it home in just in time for Malia to come over for a play.  Chelsea and Noah were off to get a haircut, and my 2 love playing with Malia, so it made sense to drop her over.  The kids played dress-ups, games, chased each other, played in the sand and pretty much went from room to room wreaking havoc!  Here they are having a picnic and watching "The great lawnmower race", with the only participant being Duane.  

Another sleeping child photo, but I just adore blissed out sleepy photos of my kids.  Xav doesn't generally sleep during the day, but if he is really tired he will just lay on the lounge room floor and have a nap.  The thing I love most about this photo, are his little fingernails full of boy-dirt.  The thing I dislike the most, is the lack of toddler chubb - he's thinning out and growing up way too fast.

They want a pony.

I was driving the 2 little darlings up to school this morning, when Grace spotted some new horses in one of the paddocks.

Grace:  "Look Mum, those horses are so beauuutiful!  I love horses as they are so kind and lovely.  Everyone must love horses"

Xavier: "I like horses, but ponies are better.  I want a pony.  Can we have a pony Mum"

Me: "Ponies need lots of room Xav, and our yard wouldn't be big enough for them"

Xavier: "Well, why don't we just get a bigger house then?  One with lots of room and THEN we can have a pony.  Muuuuummmmmm......CAN we have a pony?  I really like ponies."

Grace: "Yeah, that's a good idea Xav, we'll just get a HHHUUUGGGEEEE house, with a big paddock and we can maybe have a pony AND a horse.  "

Me: "Well, it costs a lot more to have a bigger house and paddocks for horses.  Mummy would have to go back to work all the time, and Daddy would have to work longer hours.  Then the kids would have to be in childcare EVERY day - for a really long time. " 

Grace: "That's ok.  We'd have SO much fun every day if we were at childcare.  We could do so many things, AND have a horse."

Me: "Right.  So you'd prefer to NOT spend lots of time with Mummy and Daddy, just so you could have a pony/horse?  Imagine every day not seeing Mummy or Daddy from early in the morning until dinner time at night.  That's a really long time.  Plus, Mummy and Daddy would really miss seeing you both."

Xavier: "But I'd really love a pony.  I don't mind not seeing you or Daddy.  You could have fun at work all the time and me and Grace could be at school all day.  I really like ponies. I WANT A PONY!!!" 

So, it seems they don't really give 2 hoots about our efforts to have 1 parent with them most of the time. 

It's a shame I'm only finding out about this now, I could put Grace in full time childcare and started my degree 4 year and 10 months ago.....

A stuffed up prick

On Wednesday I got a letter from the Family Assistance office letting me know that according to their records Xav's immunisations weren't up to date. Being that the only one he was missing was the chicken pox one, I called up to let then know that he had already had the chickenpox and wouldn't be needing the injection. After explaining this to the lovely lady on the phone, she then said "Well, apart from the chickenpox one, he is also missing his last Hep B" I knew this wasn't right as right in front of me, written in his little red baby book was the 12th April 2010, Hep B and the serial number. She then went on to say "No, on that day your son had the flu shot, not the Hep B" I'm just thinking now that it's a computer error and after checking with my Dr's surgery it'll be all sorted out. The lovely lady says she'll give the surgery a call to find out and she'd call me back.

I thought nothing much of it, still disbelieving that a mistake like that could actually be made. An hour or so later, she called me back. "Mrs Penney, I'm really sorry to tell you this, but your son was actually given a flu injection NOT a hep-b as you and the Dr had requested" As you can imagine, I was FURIOUS. I could not believe that my son had been injected with something that I did not request and I was only finding about it now.  It happened 5 months ago.

I wanted to march straight down there and give them the full wrath of my fury, but Duane was out getting the kids and his haircut, so I thought it best to wait for him.  However, by the time he got home the surgery had shut. 

The next day I called up to make an appointment, explaining what it was for.  The receptionist was very apologetic and suggested that I talked to the RN in charge.  The Rn apologised profusely, in between my ranting and raving about how angry I was this happened and wanting to know how they were going to guarantee it didn't happen again.  She thought I might be better off talking to the Manager of the clinic, so she put me through.  Once again, more apologies and more ranting.  The Manager did tell me straight out "I'm not going to lie to you, I've been put in the position for the last 6 weeks to clean up this clinic as there have been a few issues"  She also went on to say that the Rn who was responsible for Xav's injection had been fired only a week after starting, because of a few issues - including one similar to ours.  She is apparently suspended from working as an RN, and is in the process of being reviewed by the medical board.  I said that I also wanted to add a formal complaint and she agreed that a incident report will be completed and will be accompanying the review.

I remember that when I got Xav's injection, I'd forgotten his red book, so I took it down a few days later to be filled in.  I can't remember who filled it in, but whoever did wrote "Hep B - 12th April 2010" followed by a serial number.  I queried the manager about the number and she confirmed to be that it was a FAKE number, and she can only assume that it was the same RN and she has done that to cover herself.  SO not only did she stuff up and give the wrong immunisation, she's falsified documents too.  Wrong on so many levels.

I've been playing the "What If" game over and over in my head.  What if he did have a reaction and we took him to hospital and he was treated as if it was from the Hep b injection?  Considering the flu vaccine was withdrawn for children under 5, just a few days after Xav received it - certainly would have been nice to be aware and alert for symptoms.  It's just inexcusable that such an error and cover up were made.

I put a lot of effort and consideration into how and what immunisations we give the kids.  To have our decisions on what we give our child taken out of our hands angers me so much.  I know that the flu shot is not likely to harm him, but it's still NOT an immunisation that Duane or I would have agreed to for our children.   Also now we have the added inconvenience of taking Xav back for the RIGHT injection - Hep b. 

I have asked the medical centre for a written apology, explaining what injection we went in for and what he actually got.  I am going to be chasing the complaint up too, making sure that it gets done.  I know mistakes happen, but I'm not going to just let this one slide. 

Complacency and lack of attention to the small things, creates a slippery slope to big mistakes.