Personal Blogs
In the book Gifts mothers shared personal stories about how a child with Down syndrome enriches their lives. Because of the value of stories of families, here are some excerpts of recent posts to personal blogs.
If you know of a blog you believe would fit into this listing, you may submit it here.
Grace Between the Lines » "Show Us Where You Live Friday"
One of the blogs I frequent has a feature called "Show Us Where You Live Friday" because, let's face it, we're all nosy interested in everyone's decorating ideas. Today we are looking at yards.
We love our yard. It was one of the things that we fell in love with when looking at our house last summer. We can't take much ... [Link]
The Seal Bark » Bringing sexy back to the lake
Not sure Jack's friend would have been able to come if his parents had known my boys' favorite song to listen to on the boat.
Who's your sexy now? 
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Open Mouth, Insert Foot
My little guy was almost completely non-verbal until he was five–other than some echolalia. He desperately wanted to communicate, but was unable to process the steps to do it. It wasn't until kindergarten that he understood that letters made words, and words meant something.He hasn't stopped talking since. It's been an adventure, because he didn't come with filters.
Three's a Charm » Rock-n-Roll
Last Saturday, I completed the Inaugural Rock N Roll Marathon in Seattle! It originally was planned to be a family vacation but in the interest of saving money we decided that I would take Joaquin (since I'm still nursing him) and go with my girlfriends.
We drove the minivan straight through from Sacramento to Seattle in a record 13 hours through ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » It’s A Sibling Thang
I’m an only child.
Which means that I never had to share a bedroom while growing up.
Or a bathroom.
Nor did I have have to spit on my food to insure that it would be there later when I wanted it.
Just keepin’ it real folks.
But it also means that I never understood the bond between ...
[Link]Bridget's Light » A Blog Pause
...to enjoy fireworks and fireflies. I'll have lots of pictures and stories to share soon, so stay tuned. Thanks to everyone who continues to read and respond. Happy 4th of July! 
Big Blueberry Eyes » Friday Freebie
Freebies received: Rohto Cooling Eye drops, coupon for a free Dijiorno Flatbread Melts, Fisher Price Precious Place DVD, coupon for a free bottle of Hunts Ketchup, coupon for a free Mars candy bar.
For US:
- Coupon for a free single serving pack (or $1.00 off multi-pack) of Chiquita Bites
- Get a free sample of sun spot remover from Zun Spot. ... [Link]
RAISING JOEY » 27 MONTHS!
Wow, have I been pregnant A LOT in the past 4 years…
9 months with Joey
2 months with Kiera
9 months with Leah
7 months with Aiden (so far)
Which adds up to a grand total of 27 out of the past 48 months that I’ve been pregnant! That’s a lot of stretch marks, trips to the bathroom, kicks from ...
[Link]Finnian's Journey » Interview
The final part of my interview on Aberration Nation is posted, if anyone is interested: http://penelopeprzekop.blogspot.com~ 
Beneath the Wings » The Schedule
Today we started the day as I hope to do most of the days: with an early wakeup and a written schedule.
After the regular start-of-the-day items (medicines, prayers, breakfast, and the like) I listed several items, some of them "work" items, and some fun. They were, on purposed, interspaced, with a fun activity following chores, helping around the house ... [Link]
Deep Fried Pickles and Ice Cream » what momma been up to?
tutu making.
tie dying.
Independance day outfit making.
Homemade spice pack making.
Cleaning out my garage and yard saleing…no pics needed,believe me.
Momma-ing my kids.
[Link]
Mama Monkmee » 1st Photo Shoot In A Long Time
So yesterday I did a photo shoot for my best friend Ashleigh. We've been best friends since kindergarten. She's like my sister and she's also Eian's Godmother. This was a privet shoot so these are the only 2 I can share lol. as my blog is family friendly. Even though I was out in the hot sun for about 2 ... [Link]
momof12and loving it » Today....
I am just thinking about today, well today I am thinking about the years gone by...then I went to my Crosswalk devotion and saw the post about changing places with Rob and I parents and being the older ones at the table and then thinking about the past and what has happened. Like the Walmart storys, right Becca or the ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Hurt Feelings
I was browsing at our local Barnes and Noble when I noticed an adorable toddler looking at me from his stroller. He was wearing a San Francisco 49er t-shirt– and a heart shape pendant around his neck. His mother was looking at the book " Your Three Year Old" intently.
"Your purse is pretty!" the little boy ...
[Link]Three Weddings » Band-Aids
When Michelangelo was three she, once went through an entire box of band-aids when she was supposed to be sleeping. She snuck into the bathroom, grabbed the box and proceeded to band-aid herself and bed.
Diva is never one to pass up the opportunity to get a band-aid and at the slightest scrape or bump will request an immediate band-aid to ...
[Link]The Chase is on » No title
div id='video' style='width:300px'> Garth Brooks - Standing Outside The Fire
Music Video Codes By Music Video Code 
Lily's Life is Great! » WORRIED ABOUT COWS
Note from Lily's mom - okay it is 2:26 A.M. and I am worried that I don't have the real picture of grandpa and grandma real cows (see post below!) I finally found it!
meet Norman and Leroy
Ahhh, much better! Now off to bed to worry about something else. Don't forget to check out Lily's raffle items! We will be ...
[Link]The Chase is on » No title
div id='video' style='width:300px'> Garth Brooks - Standing Outside The Fire
Music Video Codes By Music Video Code 
Lily's Life is Great! » AND THE WINNER IS...
REBECCA!
Rebecca's daughter is awesome! She can ride a bike. She wore a helmet, I wear a helmet. Her brother rode with her.
Today we are going to Grandpa and Grandma Shirley's house! They have a dog. They have cows. We are taking our trailer. I hope it doesn't break!
Be sure to check my blog every day for my birthday raffle! That's ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » Happy Birthday Noah!
22 years ago, at this very hour, on July 3rd, 1987, I heard the cry of my first born son. Noah Allan Harazin was born at 1:21 a.m, weighing 6 lbs 15 oz, measuring 19 1/2 inches, and with a head full of BLACK hair.
You were the easiest baby any mother could ever ask for. You never cried, you were ... [Link]
Yeah, but Houdini didn't have these hips. » Family Vacation - South Haven
Ellie loves holding babies almost as much as she loves pizza, beads, swinging, and - best of all - being in the water. (Strange angle on first shot because my niece had a tight grip on my hair.)
Ada loved the park and playing with her cousin, but really it was all about the sand. (After dinner each ... [Link]
Finnian's Journey » Another new blog!
Check out this beautiful baby girl: Coco's Corner 
Beneath the Wings » Our Lives - We Need a "20-year Plan"
Well, a few hours after Google decided that I follow no blogs, it changed its mind, and my blog list reappeared. I almost wish it hadn't. Half of the blogs I follow mentioned "Bad news" at Rivka's. I went over to Rivca's blog with trepidation.
Rivca has bone cancer. In her words:
"Diagnosed with DCIS (stage ZERO breast cancer) at age 39. ... [Link]
momof12and loving it » Went to Women of Faith.....
it was a fun and exciting time, from getting lots in St. Louis, me driving but I was only following directions to merging on the interstate LOL. For those of you who know me, I do NOT drive in big cities....never....never....never but this year, ok, I did once when Dawn asked me to drive and I said, "I will not ... [Link]
* Cornish Adoption Journey * » A nice visit ;)
Today we visited with my friend R. We went to pick her up before lunch then went to the park for a bit to let the kids play. After they got some running and climbing in we went to the grocery store and picked up subs for R, Mike, and I and dropped Mike's off at the church.
Then back to ... [Link]
EmmaSage » This child of mine......
just makes me laugh, often.
Tonight we were all out getting some things that Daddy needs before his trip and we were driving in the car. Emma Sage turns to Greta and says "Greta, Text me" [she had my phone in her hands]
Greta turns to her and says "Why?"
Emma Sage replies "It will keep me busy!"
lol!!!!! 
Gabi's World » I Can Explain Really!
I know I have been absent from this blog a lot this summer. No, it's not because I am busy and overworked. Well, I am with my home duties but not with work work. (double word intended)
I can explain. Well... let's start with this as an explanation:
Yes I have created a monster! She is totally addicted! A few days ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » A Raffle (and FREE giveaways!) For Parker and Jax!
I share my birthday month with a lot of amazing people.
But one of my favorite of those born in July is Lily, from Lily’s Life is Great!
Can you believe that to celebrate her birthday this year Lily and her Mom put together a raffle for both Parker and his bud, Jax?
Oh, yes she did. ...
[Link]Three's a Charm » Kisses
One of Joaquin's most favorite things to do lately is give kisses...sweet, wet kisses. For the past few weeks, he has really been pouring out the love.
Here are a few photos at the park this week where all he wanted to do was kiss on baby Joey. It's adorable! Even Mateo wanted in on the action.
... [Link]
Elliott's Nest » Full Moon?
I keep speculating that this baby will be born on July 7 at the full moon. Are there really more births at the full moon? I don't know...Brendan was born at a full moon and the hospital was PACKED! Every room was full. Aidan was born a few days before the full moon (2 weeks early). We'll see what happens! ... [Link]
Mama Monkmee » Eian $11 Hair Cut That Sucked
I had to go to Walmart today and get some stuff like a new printer (mine died) anyways while there I decide (against my better judgement) to get Eian's hair cut he was looking like a girl. So I told the woman I wanted his hair trimed up and wanted him to look like a boy. He wouldn't be still ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » The Window.
I used to sit at this window and watch my children playing outside.
I used to sit and wonder what had gone wrong and how I was ever going to be able to pull myself out of the mud.
The window was my view to the outside world because I was too scared to leave the house.
The window ...
[Link]Ten Squares, Three Squiggles » Caden's birthday party
He was just a little excited about his party. Just a little...
[Link]
Days with Dylan » Dylan's Appointment
The Feeding Team.
For some reason, whenever I say it aloud, it reminds me of The Swat Team or something equally serious, like The CIA or something. Orrr, maybe my brain is just soggy from all of this rain and I am not capable of forming normal thoughts...
Anyway, moving on.
Two days ago we had Dylan's 12 month appointment with our semi-new ... [Link]
The Flege Farm » Day two
Here she is on day 2 after surgery. We went to see her doc and he said everything looked great. She is back to playing and eating and being herself.
Sweet girl... 
Snippets » 182:365
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182:365, originally uploaded by Rynonut Mom.
Matthew's friend from school came over to visit and swim today! They had so much fun!!! While her mom and I talked, they were going in and outdoors, between the playhouse outside ...
[Link]RAISING JOEY » Chuck E Cheese playdate!
On Monday, Joey and I had a mommy-son trip to Chuck E Cheese to see Joey’s buddy Jake and his brother. Joey had a blast mostly running around, but he did have fun playing Skee-Ball although he learned from another little boy how to cheat!
RAISING JOEY » New do!
A few weeks ago, I went to a cut-a-thon at a local hair salon where the proceeds went to the CDSC. So with the hot summer approaching very fast, I cut my hair even shorter! So here’s my new “do” and my latest tummy shot!
RAISING JOEY » Fun with fingerpaint!
The other day, I pulled out the fingerpaint and Leah had a BLAST!
RAISING JOEY » Giveaways Galore!
5 Minutes For Mom is giving away a Dyson DC25 Vaccum Cleaner! Do you know how much I could use that thing?! Currently, I have a little Dirt Devil that does fairly good cleaning the floors but I could really use something with a little more power!
AND I know the kiddos (especially Joey) would really like a Step 2 Sand and ...
[Link]Big Blueberry Eyes » Babies - More or Less
I've been thinking about babies lately. And whether I want any more; although Joe and I are 99.99% sure we're done with two. It's just so hard to make that decision a final one though, isn't it?
There are a few bloggers I follow, and a couple ladies in the Moms Club, who are expecting. When I went to the Mom's ... [Link]
Red Lights » Thankful Thursday: July 2, 2009 Thankful 10
Its been a while but now with the lazy days of summer looming I have more time to post again so here it is :).
- For summer holidays. I am so blessed to have these weeks to spend at home with Mikey. I often feel that I have the best of both worlds because of the career that I have.
- For Mikey. ...
Beneath the Wings » The Ah-HAH Moment ("I think She's Got it!")
Today Ihad to go to Ricki's school to remove from her private study area all the wonderful study aids I had put in there three years ago(and replenished, frequently since). She has been bringing some things home over the last week or so, but still we had a lot of stuff to pick up. As we were leaving the house ... [Link]
Beneath the Wings » Just Lovely
My computer is on the blink. I am using a son's computer to post and check email. Now this is harder than it sounds, as my computer interface is in English; his is in Hebrew. Also, all my passwords etc for various sits are written in a (now-unaccessible) file on my computer.
Now to top it all off, blogger has ... [Link]
Elliott's Nest » My Mistake?
In the spring when I went to Once Upon a Child, I purchased a few bags of balls designed to go into a ball pit. Aidan has a ball obsession, so I thought we could find ways to have fun with them. What a hassle! The kids throw them all over the porch, which might not be so bad ... [Link]
Mama Monkmee » So So Tired & Down In The Dumps
I dont really have a reason why I've been down the last few days it started Tuesday and has came up yet. I know I'm stressed from the kids, Life, bills, but thats nomarl around here. I'm on my meds and they are working I just feel down.
Anyways I'm so tired. Eian never sleeps late no matter what time he ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Assistive Technology Tip: Clicker 5 Makes Great Reading Writing Tool
I recently visited the ranch home of friends with a first grader. She has Todd's Paralysis, which involves epileptic seizures with motor loss. This impacts the girl's right hand and she has not been able to develop her writing at school. We are exploring some assistive technology tools for her, and Clicker 5 on a laptop is our choice to try this ...
[Link]* Cornish Adoption Journey * » Update on pain...
I forgot to mention, in the fun logistics of needing more tests done yesterday, that I did ask the doctor about the severe hip pain and whether there is anything I could do differently or exercise or vitamins, or... ANYTHING! LOL He explained a few things to me which I thought I'd share simply because I find it interesting :) ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » One year ago... A journey
One year ago today we were sitting in pre-op waiting for Kennedy's spine fusion surgery. It was a long day. We waited and we called for updates, and we got good news and we waited some more until finally she was OUT! YAY! Seeing her for the first time broke my heart. It's never easy seeing your child in pain. ... [Link]
Lily's Life is Great! » IT'S A SWIMMING POOL!
THIS DRAWING NOW CLOSED - LILY HAS TO GO TO BED!
Well it's a little swimming pool and a cute beach towel. If you're interested in winning this leave a comment, and if you think Jaxson and Parker are cute write about them on your blog and send people our way!Lily will announce the winner first thing tomorrow morning!BE SURE ... [Link]
Little Wonders » The only thing that is real is LOVE ....
The End
When I was One,
I had just begun.
When I was Two,
I was nearly new.
When I was Three,
I was hardly Me.
When I was Four,
I was not much more.
When I was Five,
I was just alive.
But now I am Six, I'm as clever as clever.
So I think I'll be six now for ever and ever.
~from Now We Are Six~by A.A.Milne
This morning I went ... [Link]
Grace Between the Lines » No title
Happy 142nd Birthday, Canada!
I, for one, am so happy and thankful for our wonderful country and all the priveliges we enjoy here.
Stop and give thanks for the great country we share! Have a great holiday!
Garden of Eagan » Small Update
Yesterday I got to speak with the GI at Mayo who's following Angela. She said looking at the Upper GI that was done last week, it is NOT classic of Achalasia. It is "insert word here that I forget" Achalasia, which is more indicative of what they see in an older person who's had a stroke within the brain stem. ... [Link]
The Road Not Chosen » Could You Explain That Please?
"I expect and hope to be judged not by words, not by promises I've made, but by promises that my administration keeps." – Pres. Obama speaking on Monday to gay men & lesbians gathered at the White House to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall Rebellion. (The Stonewall Rebellion marked the rise of the modern gay rights movement.) Obama ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Where I Come Clean
I knew we were in trouble when I heard the first clank.
The total seizing up of the motor was just icing on the cake. My washing machine’s final attempt at being a show off.
I called the repair guys. I described what had happened. I even demonstrated the sound my washing machine was making right before it’s final spin.
... [Link]Loving Life » I might be 37 years old
but I still wanted to see the Hannah Montana movie tonight. I am el' cheapo so I waited until it came to our $2 movie theatre. I was thinking me and the wild woman would have a girl's night out and go to the movies. She loves H.M. and I catch myself watching it all the time .... I mean ... [Link]
Lily's Life is Great! » 1st GIVEAWAY TOMORROW!
So here is how the giveaways will work. On a random day between now and the 27th we will be picking days to give things away. The day before you will get a little hint of what it might be. Then on the day of the giveway we will post a picture of what we are giving away and those ... [Link]
Beneath the Wings » My Son the Soldier and the UN bluff
My basically non-combatant son drove a woman soldier and her dog to work at a check point near Shechem. Exactly when they arrived, a truck was marked as possibly being explosive by the dogs, and the soldiers on duty asked my son to help distance bystanders. The Arab bystanders wanted to pass through the checkpoint, but since there was a ... [Link]
Elliott's Nest » Doctor's Appointment
I had my 39 week doctor's appointment today (I'm 39 1/2 weeks). He told me that he has a feeling I could be going into labor any time now. Ha! That's very astute since my due date is only a few days away. Sometimes these doctors make me laugh:)
He also told me to head to the hospital sooner rather than ... [Link]
* Cornish Adoption Journey * » Since it's a holiday weekend
I can't go to the lab and hospital on Friday! Ah, well... the best laid plans...
I called down to the hospital and found out I could go TODAY before 4 for the EKG so I went ahead and did that. My mom was easily available and came over for just less than an hour. I went to one of the ... [Link]
Ramblings of the Bearded One » Amanda Simmons, Glass Artist
.
Now Kim Ayres Photography has properly launched, I should probably start blogging a bit about some of the jobs I've been doing. This blog has nearly always been a reflection of whatever was on my mind at the time, and the photography business takes up a fair amount of that space these days.
Last week I was out taking photos of ... [Link]
MY COOL FAMILY » HHHMMMM
Last day of birthday crazies. Today my 4 of 5 is 4. Yesterday 1 of 5 turned 9, and Sunday 2 of 5 turned 8. 2 of 5 loves to remind everyone on the 29th that he and his sister are twins that day. So, for 24 and a few hrs, I have 2 kids the same age.
This is ... [Link]
EmmaSage » Sharing a beautiful gift.......
My children will be the first to tell you that I am the biggest sap in the whole world. I cry at commercials. Songs can move me to tears and laughter. I can only watch love stories or comedy's as anything else can profoundly move me, from sadness, to fear, to uncertainty, so very easily [and I feel my emotions ... [Link]
Snippets » 181:365
181:365, originally uploaded by Rynonut Mom.
Last day of June! My - where has the time gone?
Matthew had OT & ST yesterday. He made a bug jar with his OT. My class had done this earlier this year and I had brought home the extras to do with Matthew during the summer. The jars were cut out, but he colored ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » Special Exposure Wednesday
Kayla and the giant balloon Road Runner
[Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Volume Control (and lack thereof)
Some days, I swear I'm looking for the remote or the volume control.
And no, it's not for my TV, it is for my son.
My son who abhors loud noises; the one who in every movie we have ever seen in a theatre has to cover his ears for most of the movie. The one who hates ...
[Link]Mama Monkmee » Wordless Wednesday~True Cookie Monster
I walked outta the room gone maybe 5 mins and come back to find this. He had found an Oreo his brother had dropped.
* Cornish Adoption Journey * » I'm not sure I want to 'win' all the time!
I had my OB appointment this morning. It's been over 6 weeks since I was in last because I missed the appointment 2 weeks ago (that's a whole 'nother story!) and they couldn't reschedule me until now.
Baby sounds good, measuring fine, weight gain is fine, no worries with her.
But *I* win this time. My heartbeat is irregular. Not really a ... [Link]
Three's a Charm » New Fiscal Year
I got the dreaded call today from Joaquin and Joey's physical therapist. All therapies are cancelled today since she has not received authorization yet from the Regional Center for the new fiscal year which starts today July 1st. Our PT feels she will get the authorization and not to worry just yet but I can't help but be concerned. These ... [Link]
Dylan Update » July Already?
I can't believe it's July already! Can you? It seems just a few weeks ago that we were celebrating Easter and now we are getting ready to sing Happy Birthday to our country. Phew! Time flies.
To celebrate Easter..um, I mean the 4th of July, we are spending it with family. Grandma and Grandpa are coming up from Seattle then we ... [Link]
Dylan Update » Thank You
Mommy wanted me to tell everyone thanks so much for all the suggestions and words of encouragement. She filled out a few applications for a device to help alert her on those times that I 'make a break for it'.
We sincerely appreciate it.
Thank You 
5 Minutes for Special Needs » An Unexpected Gift
I get so used to medical procedures being difficult for Ashley that when something good happens, it’s like receiving an unexpected gift. We received one of those gifts recently, and I want to publicly thank Carilion Labs and the wonderful folks who did blood work for Ashley yesterday afternoon.
Until recently, there was only one lab in our town for blood ...
[Link]Life According to Emma & Joe » Kennedy-Brownbeck Bill
NDSS and NDSC Applaud Funding for Kennedy-Brownback Prenatally and Postnatally Diagnosed Conditions Awareness Act
The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) and National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC) commend the Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for providing funding to implement the Prenatally and Postnatally Diagnosed Conditions Awareness Act (also ... [Link]
Days with Dylan » Moms Who Blog
A few weeks ago I was contacted by a woman, Jessica, who writes stories for a website called, Moms Who Blog. She asked me if I would be interested in talking with her about Dylan and more specifically the reasons why I started my blog. I said absolutely! The story was just published this morning.
Head on over and check it ... [Link]
Dream Big » Whimsical Wednesday
Trying to entertain Chelsea during Logan's 45 minute swim lessons is becoming increasingly more difficult.
Lily's Life is Great! » LILY'S BIRTHDAY RAFFLE!
I am turning 10 on July 27th, so I am having a raffle!
The proceeds from the raffle will go to my friends Jaxson and Parker.
I think Jaxson and Parker are cute!
Raffle tickets are $5.00 each
You can buy tickets just for the items you hope too win!
Or you can just make a donation at the very bottom of ... [Link]
Ralph and the Crew » Sedated hearing test results
Our trip to Kansas City was short and sweet. No complications - just the way I like it.
Our family has been having bad luck (though I don't really believe in luck) with vehicles lately. I thought it would be wise to rent a car for the trip and not take any chances! Ralph, Ruby, Chipper and I left Thursday morning ... [Link]
Yeah, but Houdini didn't have these hips. » Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro
This month, for Barrie Summy's Book Review Club, I'm writing about Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro.
My first thought was: I have no idea what to say about this book. And then hundreds of words suddenly poured forth from my fingers.
I'll start with this. I didn't want this book to end when it did. I was "in" ... [Link]
Beneath the Wings » Graduation
As Ricki's class graduated last night from eighth grade, I was filled with gratitude ... and sorrow that this very profitable set-up for Ricki is coming to an end. I wrote a "bleesing" for her class's commencement. These are my thoughts:
You are standing today at the finish of eight years of work, tests, and studies. And not just math, ... [Link]
The Seal Bark » Penis envy at it's finest
Everyone told me that it would be a help to Morgan with the toilet training if I was able to toilet train a sibling at the same time. Well Griffin will be 3 next month and has been showing all the signs of being ready so I decided to go for it. It couldn't take up that much more time. ... [Link]
The Flege Farm » surgery.....
Well, it went well. She had the nurses all in love with her, let me tell you!! She was happy as they wheeled her down the hallway in her little bed, waiving and saying hi to everyone. That helped the tears stay away as I saw her go around the corner. She was only in surgery for 55 ... [Link]
Three Weddings » One Fish, Two Fish
[Link]
Mom-Blog: Parenting, life, growth, and sanity » Great Moments in Parenting!
Despite my last post, I did have one triumph today: I got Zoe to wear a shirt indoors the whole day. Well, my babysitter got her to do it while she was here, and I let her take her “alone break” while worked out in diaper only, but then got her to wear a different shirt the rest of the day. ...
[Link]DownBlogger » My Kayak girl
Kristin, myself and a friend went to pick Ciarra up from camp today. When we arrived, the lifeguard, a very nice lady named Janet, told me she wishes she had had a video camera today. I said why, she told me that Ciarra had decided she was going to Kayak today...all be herself, out of the blue. And she did. ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Special Exposure Wednesday.
What do you do when you are at your Great grandfather's 90th birthday?
You lie on the floor, amongst all of your relatives and play with your helicopter, of course!
Noah gets down to the nitty gritty of the celebrations.
Got something cute and funny to share? Join in at Special Exposure Wednesday.
Please remember your ...
[Link]Gabi's World » Can You Hear Me Now?
I have had some issues with people having trouble opening my blog. I removed the item that I believe was causing the problem. If you are reading this in a viewer, would you take a moment to click through to my blog to see if you have any problems loading my page (especially those who have been having problems)? Please ... [Link]
Lily's Life is Great! » LILYISMS - SEE I TOLD YOU!
Lily knows she has Down syndrome and if there is someone in the same place as us with Down syndrome she is sure to point them out. It's getting a little out of control, because right now she thinks that every Asian person has Down syndrome. And...
...the other night we were eating out, she was getting her drink, and she ... [Link]
Not That You Asked » Board Games: Seventh Ring of Hell
I sat down and attempted to play Chutes and Ladders with Simon and Jude today. Now, lemme back up to say how much I don't like board games. What I mean to say is that I hate them with the white-hot intensity of 10,000 suns. In my version of Dante's Inferno, one of the rings of hell would definitely include ... [Link]
* Cornish Adoption Journey * » My shopping trips
This one's for Jaimie... because she asked :)
When I take all 4 kids shopping I almost always bring the triple stroller. Occasionally I've done it without the 3rd seat, but not on purpose!! Brianna sits in the 3rd seat (front) about 99% of the time because 1- she'll sit up the entire time, and 2- she doesn't chew on the ... [Link]
Loving Life » No title
I can't believe that I forgot to add the story that went along with our crabby photos. While the kids were out on the boat crabbing, poor Mason accidentally fell/sat down on top of the crab basket with crabs in the basket. Per uncle Eric, Mason only shed one tear and appeared to try and "take it like a man" ... [Link]
Sunflower Stories » It's All Fun & Games Until....
Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com 
Praying For Parker » Homeschooling On The Cheap
I made a quick stop into the Dollar Store yesterday. I needed to pick up some items to use for homeschooling.
I learned that when shopping at dollar stores you’d better grab it while it there. Cause the next time you visit it won’t be. Hence the Christmas colored pom-poms in June.
I looked high and low ...
[Link]The Bates Motel » Never-ending Stuff to Do
With newly purchased houses comes great responsibility. Star Wars, right? Um, I mean Spider Man. No, that’s not right. Just us, in our ordinary, non-heroic, average homeowner lives. The last several weeks have involved project after project for Steve. I specify that he’s doing everything, because, well, he is. I watch Samantha, he does house projects. The painting of the ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Q&A #89
how does your Q & A work? Is there some other place that you go to view questions?
Nope, all the questions I answer are from my comment section on different blog posts :).
Adorable and wish it was me, too! Is her neck OK in that position?
Seems to be, I don't think she has any restrictions as far as that ... [Link]
Mama Monkmee » Great Day So Far
*****Edit to Say***** I'll be so glad when Alex goes back to school he's driving me insane today come on Sept.
We had speech therapy this morning and it was with a new therapist E's ST Ms. A has taken a leave and a new therapist coming in took over her clients til she's back. I was worried about E going ... [Link]
Life According to Emma & Joe » Constantine's Toe
Mom-Blog: Parenting, life, growth, and sanity » Stop. Breathe. Remember. Then get down on your knees…
Yesterday was an extraordinarily bad day. I questioned myself at every turn. Amelia was in a bad state, misbehaving throughout the entire day. I pulled out every trick in my bag of parenting tricks: time outs, punishments, putting her to bed. Task after task on top of that piled up. By the time I put her to bed, I was exhausted ...
[Link]Elliott's Nest » Specs 4 Us: My Review
Aidan has been wearing Flexon frames for the past 2 years, and I have been thrilled with them. They are lightweight, and don't get bent out of shape easily. His first pair of glasses were much heavier and got bent every time someone touched them. He wouldn't leave them on at all, but as soon as we switched to Flexon ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » Kayla - Just Another Special K
If you read Renee's blog then you'll understand the title of my post; if you're not familiar with her blog it's titled Life With My Special Ks. Renee and her husband, Frank, have 4 kids and all their names start with K (and they are adopting a girl whom they have already given a "K" name to) s0 - Kayla ... [Link]
Dream Big » Tuesday's Treasured Talk - Open 24 hours
Father's Day at my Dad's house. Logan knows it's a special day, so he pulls out all the tricks.
He asked for a piece of gum.
Sure.
Two minutes later I saw him sneaking another piece.
No way, little man.
Then he dives for a hard candy, um, no, nice try.
As I'm buckling him into the car I noticed his white gum is now green. ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » More Sunny weather, More Park
Loving Life » Catch of the day....
We are back from Maryland! We had an awesome time visiting Papa John, Grandma Denise and Uncle Eric! We were all sad to leave, but I am sure that the hosts areliking the quietness that they were left when we headed back to NC! Here area few pics from one of their days of adventure...... The 3 stooges go crabbing, ... [Link]
Finnian's Journey » Therapy - somebody please talk me off this ledge
Andre, Finn's new OT, called today. Just to see how Finn did over the weekend with the feeding exercises he gave us to do. So I lied and said, "He's doing great! I think your suggestions are really helping!" I was so caught off guard by the phone call. Is this guy new or something? Like, he really cares? Enough ... [Link]
Yeah, but Houdini didn't have these hips. » Disrupted
There's this part of Finding Nemo when Marlin and Dory are way down in the dark near the ocean's floor. They're following a pretty light and feeling oddly relaxed and happy. Suddenly they see that the light is attached to a scary angler fish. "Good feeling's gone!" Marlin says as Dory screams. That's me and the remnants of ... [Link]
Lily's Life is Great! » INDIANS AND CAMPERS
Note from Lily's mom - Saturday we took a quick trip to the Pow Wow up in Heber. Beautiful coustumes and good food.
Today Lily and I spent cleaning (scrubbing) a camper trailer that Jeff decided to buy. It is so old, but everything works. It had bees nests growing inside! We will show ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Try This Tuesday #50: OTPlan.com
I recently heard about this cool website called OTPlan (Occupational Therapy Plan) from a member of my local ASA chapter and just had to share it with all of you.
What is OTPlan?In their own words,
The concept is pretty simple: OTPlan is an activity idea and treatment plan search engine. The site matches the skills you want ...
[Link]Prince Vince Meets the World » Happy Birthday B
Happy Birthday Mr B! We hope you have a great day. Vince slept till 5.40 this morning. He had also made the bed for his doll next to a milk carton and his Bosch tool-set.
He also took over your side of the bed and slept relatively peacefully through most of the night. Despite the pic, he does NOT ...
[Link]* Cornish Adoption Journey * » Our kids' names
Right now we have:
Emma Hope
Kristopher Isaiah
Brianna Elizabeth
Micah Daniel
Hope that helps :) Thanks for all the great suggestions, keep 'em coming! 
Beneath the Wings » My Nervous Little (Not so Little) Daughter
Ricki's graduation Party is today. So last night she was really nervous. How do I know? Because Miss Independent was asking me question after question.
It's understandable. I know whaT a girls eighth grade graduation party is like. I have been to two in the past. But this is Ricki's first.So she doesn't know what to expect.
As a result, ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Monday Moment for Down Syndrome - I Have A Voice
Snippets » 180:365
180:365, originally uploaded by Rynonut Mom.
Yep - I got a haircut yesterday. Had her wack it all off!!!
I took in a photo of Meg Ryan in "You've Got Mail" and had her cut it like that. It's pretty close - but I have it flipped out more today. Matthew keeps looking at me and saying "haircut". It is alot ...
Snippets » 179:365
179:365, originally uploaded by Rynonut Mom. 
We got up on this Sunday morning and Matthew wanted to go for a swim. So - he did for a few minutes, then we got ready and went to the Hoosier Cafe again for Breakfast. We had gone there last weekend, but Ryan had been to Gma's, so it was his 1st time. ...
[Link]Snippets » 178:365
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178:365, originally uploaded by Rynonut Mom.
Today we went to Ted's Dogs for lunch! Yum! Got a quick photo of you 2 monkey's in your Ted's hats with the P/S. I'm liking that I can carry it in ...
[Link]Finnian's Journey » Aberration Nation Interview Part II
Part II of my interview on Aberration Nation is up, for anyone interested:
Runaway Lisa: Aberration Story, Part II 
Prince Vince Meets the World » Oh Man…
Sometimes you get lucky and hit the jack pot. I got extra lucky this weekend and got myself a double jack pot. A nutcase (in the store) was crazy enough to get himself in both a criminal and a civil lawsuit; one filed on Saturday by me, the second one cleared up today and filed by me today. It is interesting ...
[Link]Mama Monkmee » Helping a good Cause & Updates
1st off here is Jaxson's Car Magnet for sale if anyone wants one. They are $5. they are 11.5x3 in size.
So far the Jaxson Fundraiser is going well. I can't wait to get started on some for other kids. It's exciting doing thing to help people makes me feel good.
They boys are good still driving me crazy ...
[Link]Dylan Update » Help Needed
Mommy needs your help. Seriously. I have a habit of wandering away and recently this habit (or major problem as Mommy calls it) is getting worse. Lots worse. We live on two acres and typically when I wander I'll just go to a fence and then stand there. The problem is that now I like to run up our very ... [Link]
Snippets » 177:365
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177:365, originally uploaded by Rynonut Mom.
Bella swimming again! She is going with us almost everytime that we swim and is swimming for at least an hour with us! Her eyes are trained on the ball that you ...
[Link]* Cornish Adoption Journey * » Names names names...
Anyone want to suggest some NAMES??
We'd like something fairly recognizable, definitely gender-specific (girl), and not super popular as far as a name that's either the new top 10 or one that there are always 10,000 in every school classroom (Jessica, Jennifer, Amanda...).
And for a middle name, we want either a Biblical female, or another 'word' that has a Biblical backing, ... [Link]
* Cornish Adoption Journey * » When is the best time
for a 5 yr old to decide to pull up your shirt in public to 'show' someone the baby??
Of course it would be at Lowe's with a weird man talking to us that had me creeped out BEFORE K decided to show off my tummy.
Ah... the joys of 5 yr olds. YIKES!
PS... it only makes it better that I wasn't ... [Link]
Snippets » 176:365
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176:365, originally uploaded by Rynonut Mom.
MT with Miss Lee. You were dancing around the living room holding this autoharp (?) like a guitar and playing it. I was getting nervous that you were going to drop it ...
[Link]Life According to Emma & Joe » Rome
Chris is in Rome this week for a conference. He made it to his hotel this morning and has been walking around Rome trying to stay awake until 10 PM to beat jet lag. Here is a photo of the Colosseum that he took this afternoon. 
The Flege Farm » Surgery..
My sweet baby girl is having surgery tomorrow morning on both eyes. Something I have been dreading this whole month. They say the surgery will take approx. 90 minutes. I am scared to death. I am sure she will do great but its just the whole thought of what she has to go through.....please say a prayer! 
5 Minutes for Special Needs » How do you make sure other kids play with your child?
We spent this weekend with friends who have three girls, ages three, five and seven. When Max was little, it was hard for me to spend time with friends and their kids—I was always comparing him to them, which inevitably made me feel bummed out.
I don't do that anymore, but lately I've been grappling with another issue: how ...
[Link]MY COOL FAMILY » The Party.
This was 2 of 5's birthday present to himself. Sunday night he fell, I'm not sure what he was doing, and put his tooth through his lip. Trent had to pull his lip off of his tooth. I'm just glad he didn't damage his teeth. Boy does a mouth bleed. I didn't think it was going to stop until he ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » What would you do?
I'm feeling a little bit angry this morning. We were told almost 4 years ago that Angela had Achalasia, and that her GI doctor had never seen an esophagus like hers, and pretty much left it at that. I asked if we should go to Mayo, and he just kind of shrugged his shoulders.
Angela should NOT have gone this long ... [Link]
DownBlogger » No title
* Cornish Adoption Journey * » Our weekend...
Yesterday was one of those days I'd rather just forget happened. I didn't sleep the night before, had gotten 'close' several times then would wake up in pain from my hips and not be able to go back to sleep. Emma woke and clinked her head against the crib for a while then as I'd decided to get up and ... [Link]
Three Weddings » Table Rock Lake
This weekend we went to the lake with my sister. She and her husband have a nice cabin and invited us down for a weekend of boating, swimming, fishing and fireworks. We had a great time.
Michelangelo went tubing and although she rubbed the skin on her elbows completely off and was sore all over, she was ready to go again ...
[Link]Garden of Eagan » What does your esophagus look like?
First, here is a picture of a normal esophagus. This is looking down toward the LES (the sphincter muscle at the base of the stomach that controls the emptying of the esophagus into the stomach) It is like looking down a tube slide, basically.
And then there is Angela's esophagus! These were taken almost 4 years ago, and the GI ... [Link]
2 Pirates and a Princess » Normal
We had the D.A.D.S. Family Outing yesterday, at David Farmland. It was really fun. Sofia has absolutely NO FEAR of the animals, and kept demanding to hold the baby goats. She fed any animal that came near her, and begged for more feed from any grownup around. She also "cared for" some of the smaller kids, and had a massively ... [Link]
Mama Monkmee » I Need Help
Ok so I'm on a misson to save the world ok not really the world but to help families with sick kids. I have Jaxson's fundraiser going right now and I have a few other families I'd like to help in the next few weeks. I'm thinking about starting a blog just for Fundraising for our special kids. Not only ... [Link]
Raising Reid » Will My Child Have A Friend?
When Reid was born and we learned of his diagnosis a thousand thoughts and fears flooded me...many of which went to his future. A scary place to be when my son was only a few hours old and I really didn't know much of Down syndrome at that point. But, one of the thoughts I had or something I questioned was ... [Link]
Yeah, but Houdini didn't have these hips. » Rejuvenated
We're back from vacation! We're relaxed! We had a great time!
My parents rented a house for a week in South Haven, Michigan. They were there for a couple days, then my youngest sister and her husband arrived, I showed up with my girls, middle sis drove down with her girls, Paul flew up, and my last brother-in-law checked in. ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » I Have A Voice
Beautiful video!
This is an up coming Traveling Gallery, promoting Down syndrome awareness. Portrait photography by renown photographer Thomas Balsamo...This film promotes awareness and the organization that brought this project to life, GiGi's Playhouse, a National Down Syndrome Awareness, non-for-profit organization. For more information, go to Gigi's Playhouse.
Adding another beautiful face...(thanks for the photo enhancement Bethany!)
[Link]
Lily's Life is Great! » I WAS A PRINCESS!
I got to go to a Princess Festival and be a princess for a day. The princesses were all cute. Most of the pfincesses had Down swyndrome. I was Princess Lily Smith. I was darling! I liked it. I went with my mommy. That's it.
Note from Lily's mom - The Utah County Chapter of the Utah Down Syndrome Foundation got ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » Rattling the Cage
Most people who know me, know that it takes a lot to rattle me. I might shed some tears now and then, but then it's time to pull up my boot straps and move on.
Consider me sufficiently rattled!
I think until the final appointment rolls around my posts are going to be rambly, and maybe a little bit whiney or vent-like. ... [Link]
Finnian's Journey » Flattered, again :)
I was awarded the Honest Scrap blog award recently by not one, not two, but THREE fellow bloggers: Lisa of Genetic Enhancement; Ria of Bill and Ria; and Maggie of Take a Walk on the Happy Side. Thank you, ladies, I am flattered and grateful!
With everything that's been going on in our neck of the woods, I am just now ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Remembering Charlie
Two years ago today, our friends Chad and Kim lost their 3 year old son, Charlie, to Acute Myelogenous Leukemia. I'll never forget that day. It was, by far, one of the worst days of my life. I know it was THE worst day of their lives. Since that day the Porter and Pople families have been finding ways to ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Magic Marker Monday — Entertaining Little Brother…
" It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child."
~Pablo Picasso
Welcome to Magic Marker Monday! If you haven't heard about Magic Marker Monday yet, click here and then hurry right back…
My eldest isn't really a huge fan of Disney Pixar's Cars movie — she's more ...
[Link]Beneath the Wings » That’s AALLLL I Need!
Saturday evening I received a phone call from the principal of Ricki’s school. She is really an “educater” par excellance. (See HERE) I used to see her often; she would be on the way to school at 7:55 , as I was walking home after taking Ricki to school. But for the last two years Ricki has had a ... [Link]
Elliott's Nest » Aidan's Mad Face
Just because it makes me laugh! This the face we get if we move something of his that he doesn't want moved, or if we try to help him with something and he wants to do it himself. The older he gets, the more often we get this face. He has another face he uses when he's highly offended, ... [Link]
Banana Migraine » A Day of Nothing
It's so nice how sometimes a day of nothing will turn into one that is very productive. I woke up this morning and realized that we didn't really have anything that we actually HAD to do. Our Indiana Down Syndrome Picnic was scheduled for today and it was an absolutely gorgeous day for it, but Delphine is still fighting a ... [Link]
Days with Dylan » The Birthday Boy
Ooh! I think I see my cake! Yay!
:gasp:
That thing looks COOL!
Hmmm. I'm used to puffs...what in the heck is this stuff?
Ahh, it's messy. Someone? Anyone? A little help, please.
Yeah meee! Birthdays are fun!
I apologize for sounding a bit self-centered here, but...well...I think I look pretty dang cute in my new Red Sox hat. ... [Link]
Grace Between the Lines » No title
imshp59rcf 
Bits of Betsy » Before the pool was even full...
Someone had to stand in the way of the water. It should be fun keeping this guy out of the pool all summer long! Paige has been in three times, and is having a blast - she is getting so much great exercise for her legs!
Ramblings of the Bearded One » Aggressive wakefulness
.
The last couple of nights I’ve spent hours in the middle of them aggressively awake.
I don’t mean I’ve been shouting and beating up my pillow, rather my head has been shouting and beating up me with never ending fears, concerns, worries, embarrassments, regrets, injustices, anxieties, doubts, uncertainties, qualms, misgivings and anything else it can chuck at me to prevent me ... [Link]
Mom-Blog: Parenting, life, growth, and sanity » Sunday Helper: Rethink Autism Launches Website
Today’s Sunday Helper is a press release for Rethink Autism, an organization that helps professionals and families dealing with autism.
RETHINK AUTISM LAUNCHES FIRST WEBSITE EMPOWERING FAMILIES AND PROFESSIONALS
WITH SCIENCE-BASED TECHNIQUES TO CONFRONT THE DAILY CHALLENGES OF AUTISM
(June, 2009) NEW YORK - Rethink Autism, Inc., an educational technology company based in New York City, today launched rethinkautism.com, ...
[Link]Bridget's Light » Health and Children with Down syndrome
When Bridget was little, we heard over and over how children with Down syndrome are more likely than typical children to have hearing and vision difficulties, thyroid dysfunction and an increased risk of developing leukemia (in addition to the heart defects and complications in roughly half of kids with Ds).
We heard that children with Down syndrome also more likely to ... [Link]
ever forward, Maya » inspiring swimmer and advocate
check out this video from the today show on msnbc.com, it features Karen Gaffney and her inspiring story of swimming across lake tahoe.
she is also president of the karen gaffney foundation dedicated to full inclusion in schools, communities and the workplace for people with Down syndrome.
http://www.karengaffneyfoundation.com/ 
Beneath the Wings » The Candies
Yesterday evening Ricki had managed, somehow, to widdle some seven or eight pieces of sucking candy from her brother-in-law. Now I know Ricki, and she won’t take more than a suck or two of each before deciding that the candy is “too sticky”, and toss it away.
But she had apparently had her heart set on taking the stash with ... [Link]
Lily's Life is Great! » So Excited!
Note from Lily's mom - I have commissioned Michael Jurogue Johnson to do a watercolor of Lily! I have been wanting one for years. I will share with all of you when I receive it.
In the meantime Lily and I are working on the birthday surprise and her birthday party. She has decided to have a swimming party with cake ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » We are here!
We are here in the DC area. We are actually staying in Alexandria, VA. It took 12 hours to drive here. Kass and Kam did GREAT (thank heaven for iPods!) and Kennedy and Keeghan did... OK. They were definitely ready to get out of the car by the time we got here! Kennedy stayed awake the whole time! Frank didn't ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » The Paint. It’s FREE……..
My all time favorite price. FREE!
https://www.glidden.com/promotions/free-paint-giveaway.do
Pick a color online (at the site above) and Glidden will send you a Free Quart of any color of paint you choose. It comes in an eggshell finish which will be perfect for a couple of crafts I have in mind.
And did I mention that it’s FREE?
Cause it ...
[Link]Grace Between the Lines » Let's Play Ball!
The idea of going to the Roger's Centre to see the Bluejays play baseball was a very exciting idea!
Watching them loose 10-0 without many hits at all was a great big bummer (quoting Steve).
BUT, the day was gorgeous, the atmosphere fun (mostly :) ), the traffic horrible, the junk food great and the experience wonderful! Overall, ... [Link]
KEIRNAN CLAN » Pictures From Around The House
Just a few pictures that were taken in the last couple of weeks around the house. Below is my Bird Of Paradise. It does not bloom often, so I had to take a picture. Not nearly as interesting as your pictures, though, Rosie.
This wood stork wandered up to our back porch on a Saturday, about two weeks ago. He ... [Link]
KEIRNAN CLAN » Horse Camp
I am going a little out of order here. I got behind with some pictures and ended up posting pics from our trip home to Alabama before I posted the pictures from Allison's horse camp. Allison was in horse camp the week of June 15th-June19th from 8:30am-12:30pm. She got to have lots of hands on horse stuff, including cleaning out ... [Link]
Life According to Emma & Joe » In other news
Besides Emma's big birthday bash, we have been having fun going to the pool everyday and over the past couple of days listening to Michael Jackson (and the Jackson 5) non-stop at full volume. Today we had a fun afternoon at the pool, E & J made pesto for dinner on the patio, an evening run through the sprinkler, and ... [Link]
The Flege Farm » Freedom Fest Parade
Its FREEDOM FEST time here in Cedar Rapids and the parade was today! They girl road the float that our local DS group put together (HADSA)
They had a great time! 
Little Wonders » Another Goodbye ....
This morning was a 10 mile morning.Each and every moment was spent thinking of Pablo and his family.Each word I spoke, with each person that ran beside me, was spoken of Pablo and his family.I found it difficult to run.Not that I couldn't,I just didn't want to.Seemed too trivial a thing to be doing and when I knew all too ... [Link]
MY COOL FAMILY » Mothers Of Children With Disabilities
I was just sitting here minding my own business while taking a break from blowing insulation into the attic, and decided to browse a few blogs. I came across this, on a blog of a UT mom with a son with DS. I guess I needed to cry today still.
Blessings promised to mothers of children with disabilities.
I speak a word ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » Bill of Rights for Parents of Kids With Special Needs
I'm totally stealing this from Ellen, but it's ok because I asked permission. I found myself nodding my head at so many of these and just wanted to share it here too.
We, the parents, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure tranquility (and sanity) and promote the general welfare of our families, do ordain and establish ... [Link]
Mama Monkmee » Jaxson's Fight Fundraiser
This is a fundraiser for Jaxson here
$2 gets you entered into a very wonderful drawing for some amazing stuff.
There will be 3 winners total.
Grand prize winner will get all the items below a $50+ value
One of Jaxson's Blankies for Babes in your choice of girl or boy
7" x 5" Hardcover Photo Book with 40 Pages to fill ... [Link]
Elliott's Nest » Aidan's New Glasses
We ordered Aidan's glasses going on three weeks ago, and we had a delay in getting them in. They're finally here! I think he looks adorable. This time we went with the Specs 4 Us. What do you think?
BEFORE 
AFTER 
Beneath the Wings » The “Magic” Age of Seven
The age of seven is not necessarily exact. However, most children at some point steal something. I remember slipping some M&M’s into the shopping bags at the local grocery. Stupidly, I ate them in front of my older brother, who correctly reported the offense to my parents. Even better than my memory of taking the M&M’s is my shame at ... [Link]
Red Lights » Summer Time!
The crazy month of June is almost over and I can once again reclaim my life! Wanted to take a second to post so that I can get back in the habit of blogging. It is nice to see this school year behind me and I'm looking forward to a fun, relaxing summer.
No big plans for the summer. Mikey will ...
[Link]Garden of Eagan » Thank you for your support
Thanks everyone. I was pretty much a wreck yesterday, and not really processing anything very well. Still, now that we know what's happening "in there", watching her eat makes my stomach turn. Since she's been this way for quite some time (her last endoscopy 3 years ago showed her esophagus collapsed while laying down, we just didn't know what was ... [Link]
EmmaSage » I Am Neda
“Human rights is the soul of our foreign policy, because human rights is the very soul of our sense of nationhood.” ~ Jimmy Carter
I Am Neda........ 
Banana Migraine » Pudding Time
It has been so hot that we haven't wanted to heat up our kitchen by cooking. The kids and I were craving something sweet so we decided to make some chocolate pudding.
Delphine was mad because she wanted to pour the first cup of milk...
...she recovered quickly though.
It was an easy and delicious dessert!!
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Dancing
Last week, I posted some photos of Esther-Faith "dancing" with her Daddy. She wasn't wearing her orthotics. One of my blog readers left this question in the comments section, " She's not supposed to 'be able' to do that right?"
No, she's not. I wish I would have kept a list of all the things my heart feared she wouldn't be able ...
[Link]Prince Vince Meets the World » Change of Plans
The plan was to pack, pack, pack and pack this weekend so we could move into our new apartment on Wednesday. We were pretty much all prepared, when B told me he declined to go on a business trip due to the move. Yes, you are not going to Korea when we are moving, was my answer.
But the business trip ...
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Step2 Is Making Parker's Summer Shine Brighter: A Review And Giveaway
Note: This is a compensated (Parker received his Sand and Water Transportation Station for free) review and giveaway from Step2.
It was a warm summer's morning. Parker had been signing "outside" since he woke up, hours before.
Finally, after the medications, the morning therapies, bath time, trach change and breakfast, it was time to go outside.
Praying For Parker » How Step2 is Making Parker’s Summer Shine Brighter
I’m closing the comments here in order to entice you to go straight over to 5 Minutes For Special Needs and enter to win one of these excellent Sand and Transportation Stations from Step2 for your own Brave Hero.
Note: This is a compensated (Parker received his Sand and Water Transportation Station for free) review and giveaway from Step2.
... [Link]Life With My Special Ks » On our way!
We are on our way to DC right now. We're actually driving down the freeway. Kass and Kam are on
their iPods, Kenn and Keeghan are watching Diego, my mom is drinking coffee, Frank is driving and I'm blogging. Life is good. LOL
I have NO posts set up for the rest of the week but I'm sure I will be around. ... [Link]
Mama Monkmee » All About Jax Today
I'd like to introduce Jaxson.
Jaxson was born on Nov.20 2005 with Trisomy 21. He has spent half of his short life in the hospital. He has heart defects,pulmonary hypertension,severe reflux,sleep apnea, and a hypoxic brain injury that resulted in severe seizures.
Like alot of our T21 babies Mr. Jax has been through alot in his short life. His Mommy, Daddy, and ... [Link]
DownBlogger » 11
It seems impossible that today my little girl is eleven years old. We are more than halfway to adulthood, we are no longer trying to figure out where we are headed, we just keep putting one foot in front of the other and doing it. Eleven years have zoomed by, it seems like only yesterday I was hearing myself say ... [Link]
Not That You Asked » Chloe's Take on the New Furniture
Chloe was away at camp this week and arrived home tonight to discover our new oversized furniture in the living room. Honestly, it looks like giants live at our house.
So she walks in, half asleep, takes a look around and says, "Is this a fat joke?"
Finnian's Journey » OT and stuff
So much going on lately, I've been severely neglecting my blog, as well as reading blogs :(
This afternoon we met Finn's new OT. His name is Andre and he's a younger guy (younger than me, that's for sure. He called Michael "sir" and Michael kind of cringed and said, "Hey, you don't have to call me that." Yeesh.). Very nice ... [Link]
Mama Monkmee » Fluff Mail Friday with Pictures
Days with Dylan » Dylan's First Year
In honor of Dylan's First Birthday, I put together this video montage. If you have a few minutes, we would be honored if you'd check it out.
As you all already know, we are so incredibly proud of him...and are more in love than we ever thought possible.
Dylan has truly, truly blessed our family.
Happy First Birthday, Love.
xo 
Life With My Special Ks » Swimming Lessons - Part 4
Keeghan isn't too thrilled with swimming lessons right at the moment. Our goal with him is to just get him comfortable with the water and if he were to fall in by some horrible chance, he'd be able to save himself, or at least turn over and float until someone could get to him. Hopefully as time goes on he'll ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Swimming Lessons - Part 3
When my mom moved here and decided to have a pool put in, she mostly did it because she knew it would be good therapy to help Kennedy's low muscle tone. We were all set for Kennedy to start swimming lessons in 2007 and then she was diagnosed with Leukemia and obviously that didn't happen. SO when she ended treatment ... [Link]
Elliott's Nest » Sleep Advice?
Does anyone have advice on how to get kids to sleep more this time of year? It's light out so late at night, so it's a lot harder to get the kids to bed. Even if we get them in bed at a reasonable time (I aim for 8pm), they stay awake and play for an hour. Then, it's light ... [Link]
* Cornish Adoption Journey * » And I lived to blog about it...
This week we've had company three times :) Tuesday was a monthly 'get together' with other young families that are local. The families that can come, do, and we've had 6 or 7 families participate in the last 3 months. This time there were 3 other families and ours, totaling 5 adults and 10 kids. Brianna and Kristopher being the oldest ...
[Link]Garden of Eagan » You never want to hear....
You never want to hear a doctor at Mayo say, "I have only 6 other pediatric patients with this disease, and I've NEVER seen it in a child who has Down syndrome."
Let me go back the the beginning. A couple months ago we tried to put a Palate expander in Angela's mouth. Unfortunately her oral motor skills are such a ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Swimming Lessons - Part 2
This is actually the second Summer of swimming lessons for Kass and Kam. Last time though, Kameron wasn't all that interested and didn't really want to learn. As with all things with Kameron... and ANY child really, if they don't WANT to do something, well... it doesn't go so well. SO we were really excited this year when HE got ... [Link]
Bridget's Light » Things Mama's Gotta Have
There's a post up on Down Syndrome New Mama: 10 Things Mama's Gotta Have for a new baby with Down syndrome (and a request for other bloggers to make their own lists). So, here are links to items--yeah, I know it's more than ten :)--we found invaluable in Bridget's first year:
Items to save mom and dad's sanity:
- When Bridget ... [Link]
KEIRNAN CLAN » No title
Mama Monkmee » Fluff Mail Friday
So I checked the mail today and We had fluffy mail. Woo Hoo.
Eian got his cookie monster set
His Cookie Monster Fleece Shorties from Happy Booty Boutique
Cookie Monster Shirt and Diaper from Chunky Monkey Diapers
He'll be wearing it later today. I'll post pictures 
MY COOL FAMILY » Attic
So, our project for the past 2 weeks has been insulating the attic. And by 'we' I mean, Trent. Because as you can see, I couldn't fit in there, in my current state. 
He told me he had to crawl along the plank he set down to get in to the back of the house so he could fix ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Swimming Lessons - Part 1
All 4 kids are taking swimming lessons this Summer. Kassidy already knows how to swim but she is now learning the different strokes and dives (she's still scared to dive off the diving board) and she's working on becoming a stronger swimmer. Here are some pictures from her first lesson of the Summer. Pics of the other kids coming soon. ... [Link]
KEIRNAN CLAN » Sweet Home Alabama
Just got home last night about 10:00pm from a trip home to Dad's. My sister and her girls went with us so it was two mommies and five kids. Lots of fun, but we are really tired today!!! It was nice, but HOT. Did I say it was HOT.......well, I cannot emphasize how HOT it was. Makes for some long days ... [Link]
Ten Squares, Three Squiggles » My baby becomes a boy
In honor of my little rockstar turning 4 (FOUR!!!!) next week, I'd like to share the video I made for his first birthday. Even though he's a big boy now, he'll always be my baby.
Caden's first year
Big Blueberry Eyes » Friday Freebie
Freebies received: Axe Shampoo
For US:
- Get a free sample of Carefree Ultra Protection Liners
- Receive a free ADT Pet Alert window cling.
- Sign up for a coupon for a free Mars candy bar (first 250,000 people)
- Get a free sample of Nature's Bounty Fish Oil.
- Request a free quart of Glidden Paint.
- Get a free cell phone holder.
For US and ... [Link]
Elliott's Nest » Too big!
In our house it's always monkey-see, monkey-do. I made sun tea the other day and brought it in the house to stir it up one last time before refrigerating it. Brendan wanted my wooden spoon when I was done. Then, of course, Aidan wanted a wooden spoon, too. Next thing I know they're eating their applesauce with it. ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » True Confessions Autism Style
Matthew had been at camp for two and a half days when it hit me that I had stopped grinding my teeth. This was two years ago, when Matthew was 21 and home for the summer from Camphill Soltane in Pennsylvania. The lack of structure at home had made Matthew anxious, impulsive-and aggressive. I prayed that Camp Harmon ...
[Link]Sunflower Stories » Guess Who is Coming to Visit Aidan?
Our first Tooth Fairy Visit will be tonight! 
Little Wonders » An Unspeakable and Ultimately Profoundly Unfair Journey:
Tonight I headed out to do my run.Did not feel like tackling another 4 miles, two nights in a row but I went. My motivation as I struggle to finish is always the same: I think of my 4th floor warriors. Not a cliche. Not a line. They are my inspiration. Tonight my legs were heavy but my heart was ... [Link]
Not That You Asked » Retail Therapy and The Child Who Talks Constantly
I've been out spending money. I'm looking at new carpet, for one thing. And today our new couch and chair were delivered. LOVE them with much loving. Why does shopping make me feel better? Probably because our carpet and couch and chair were gross and worn out and now we'll have new. There's probably not a whole lot more to ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Conversation with Keeghan
Poor Keeghan has been feeling kind of yucky today. I've been a little concerned he might have another ear infection. He started crying a few minutes ago and so I thought I would see if he'd tell me what was wrong...
Me: Keeghan are you ok?
K: Noooo
Me: Do your ears hurt?
K: Go ni-night
Me: Keeghan, do your ears hurt?
K: I wanna hold ... [Link]
