WOW! This post...

is a complete mess.

It has been a while and there is so much to tell. We will do a little good/bad/awesome - in that order.

{good}

The January before Ethan was born, I posted a photoshopped photo of what I thought he would look like. Remember Child Morph?

Well, I checked it out today and bam, I think I nailed it on the head! I was almost freaked out that I came so close. Here's the proof...

What could be gooder a handsome little boy to carry on your smile. Nothing! Keep that smile in mind as we go on to the next topic.

{bad}

On September 1, my dad was hit on his motorcycle while headed to our family reunion in Kansas City. It was terrifying for our family. Although we were all in town and able to be by his side, the extent of his injuries were unknown. My dad blew me away with his attitude; while laying in the ER with numerous broken bones, he was positive, he was talking, he was determined - but most of all he was alive which brings me to...

{awesome} 

After 20 days of being in the hospital, and several surgeries, he was released to go home. With the total support of my step mom, my dad is being cared for in his own home and was even able to get in a car today. It just solidifies my faith. Believe what you believe - I will believe what I believe, and I believe I witnessed several rounds of miracles. And for that, I thank the Big Guy upstairs. 

Words cannot express the feelings of it all. Those who have lost a parent, and those who have almost lost a parent understand just how precious the moments are. For those who haven't - we who have felt that feeling, hope you don't ever have to. So if I had to pick one word to describe my feelings, it would be fortunate. 

My great fortune continues. Yesterday, for the first time since December, I went to the cardiologist for an echocardiogram. I needed peace of mind. I needed to get back on track. I needed something to fight for. I am excited to share with you, as of today, my EF (ejection fraction/blood flow) has raised from 47% to 65% - which is considered N O R M A L. 

(Insert squeal here!!!)

That doesn't mean I can stop. I have to stay strong on my diet. I have to continue on my meds for a while. I have to continue to exercise. I get a second chance. I get to live life with a normal heart again, and I am going to live life!! And to start my new life off with a bang, KP and I are challenging each other to lose 10 pounds by November 1. Stay posted for the results.

Kathol Company is doing well. I am in the process of updating the website and trying to design more and more, helping both the Ronald McDonald House, American Heart Association, and designing wedding invites. I celebrated my 5 year anniversary as the sole graphic designer at work. And here is my new professional photo. Yes, I was wearing fancy pants. :)

And finally, my sweet family. Here are the goings on with the Podmen in our household. 

ESAP is 16 months old. He is walking, running, and talking with a very large vocabulary. My favorites are graham cracker (grim caca), bye dada, charlie (tar lee), hungry (ungee), and oooohhh nooo! He is handsome, he is smart, he is hilarious.

KP is training for the Des Moines Marathon which is in a couple of weeks. He has been preparing by running with his mentoring group for several months. He is so dedicated and his motivation is impressive. To cheer him on, my sister and Ben are coming to watch the race - and I invite all of you reading come come out and support the runners who have taken the time in their lives to do something they love. 

I do apologize that it has taken me so long to update. Our life has been crazy. Good, bad and super amazing, it is our life and I appreciate you all taking the time to read about it. 

For your support and love, I am grateful.