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.
Dylan Update » GO Jayna!
We have a wonderful friend that has made a HUGE accomplishment!
Please see Ms. Jayna walking independently.
We are so proud. So happy. Maybe a little tearful (joyfully).
Love you lots Jayna, Sunshine, and Ryen. Wow.
http://jaynabean.blogspot.com/ 
Life With My Special Ks » App of the Week #3
What: Skype
By: Skype Software S.a.r.l
Price: FREE
So, who here uses Skype? Yeah, probably a lot of you... but do you use it on your iPhone? No?! You CAN, and you should! With Frank's upcoming deployment we plan on using Skype A LOT! It's a great way to keep in touch and with my phone, Frank can contact us anywhere! You have ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » 21.3.10 Project
21.3.10 Project
Every year on the 21st of March something wonderful occurs! The entire world comes together to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day! The date has been hand selected to honour the 3rd copy of the 21st chromosome presented in Down Syndrome.
It is a day set aside to raise awareness and advocate for DS. The goal of WDSD is not just to raise ...
[Link]Praying For Parker » Children Of Some Other God?
The things that blow me away the most are the stories I hear from families of children with special needs who have dared to take their child to church.
Well, at least that is how they wound up feeling about it.
Because, their kids, weren’t really treated so well.
Not by their peers.
Not by those who held the responsibility ...
[Link]Beneath the Wings » Like Any Older Child: Reading in Bed _Special Exposure Wednesday
Raising Reid » Watch CNN International at 1:00 today PST....or 4:00 EST
Just a super quick post.... CNN International is airing a live segment on a beautiful woman who just recently had a beautiful baby girl named Nella who happens to have Down syndrome. Many of you reading this already know about Kelle and her blog...particularly her birth story, which could not be any more raw and honest ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » The I Love Lucy Project and a Book Giveaway!
Shawni Eyre Pothier and her mother Linda Eyre have co-authored a new book titled A Mother's Book of Secrets; they have also recently launched the I Love Lucy Project to help raise funds for research to help fight blindness since her youngest daughter has been diagnosed with a syndrome that causes blindness.
On this blog we talk about parenting ...
[Link]Days with Dylan » We are turning a corner...
...with this feeding stuff, I think.
Ever since beginning solids with Dylan, we've had our share of struggles. For over a year, Dylan had battled what we thought was severe reflux. However, after various procedures and then finally an endoscopy, we have come to understand that there is a high likelihood that Dylan has Celiac Disease. I have since stopped giving ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » Life Is Therapy
Life is Therapy - being outside on a nice day enjoying swinging! Swinging is a great sensory therapy tool - maintaining your balance and your body awareness of where you are in 'space.'
Looking at these pictures I almost forgot how little Kayla was back then :)
Visit Marie for more Life Is Therapy ideas.
[Link]
Mom-Blog: Parenting, life, growth, and sanity » Care.com free weekend
Hi everyone, I wanted to let you know Care.com is running another Free Weekend March 19-21st. They are once again opening up our site to everyone for free. From Friday to Sunday, anyone can search for caregivers, post jobs, and get contact information. It’s a great opportunity to try out the site, and find a caregiver.
We joined Care.com after a ...
[Link]SHAMPTONS » My Favourite - a milestone
It is 2 in the morning and here I am...listening to Hannah snore - something I haven't heard since her T&A last month. She has
been restless at various times from midnight, to one o'clock. At one thirty she handed me her medicine cup which was beside the bed I am sharing with her while she is sick. She wasn't allowed ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » We're going!
As I type, flights are being booked for Bulgaria and Serbia! More later when I'm coherent. 
Life With My Special Ks » POTD #16 - Getting Closer (part 2)
Somehow he turned this...
Into this...
Getting closer... 
Prince Vince Meets the World » Lalalalaaaa
Miracle! Edgar only woke up twice last night. I feel so well rested even though we got up at 4.30. By 5,45 I had done laundry and fixed the snack for day care, made the bed and had had breakfast. The sun is shining and spring seems really to be on the way, this will be a good day!
... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » Sick
Hannah has a fever today. It meant that she had a fit this morning - unlike her rpevious ones - this time her arms were stiff and her eyes stayed open and staring (as opposed to rolling back in her head) like she was trying hard not to 'lose it'. It breaks my heart - she came out of her ... [Link]
Beneath the Wings » SHECHEYANU **
For those of you following our kitchen saga* (see HERE and HERE).
SHECHEYANU!!! I FINALLY have a functioning kitchen with ALL of the following:
running water, pipes IN the walls, and full set of cabnits, and filler between the tiles. My kitchen is fundementally done.
* In short, a year and a half ago, the pipes in my kitchen where ... [Link]
Ralph and the Crew » What is normal?
I've been taking Ralph to a music class for several months now and he likes it a lot. There are echo songs, playing with instruments like jingle bells on a stick, dancing with streamers, and parachute play, too. The only problem is that it is on Monday morning. Ick.
In an effort to be super mom we checked into an additional ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Keeghan and Kellsey Visit the Dentist
Keeghan had a dentist appointment this morning and they called on Friday and were able to fit Kellsey into a cancelled spot as well! They originally could not get her in until April 5th, so I was happy for the sooner opening! The doctor from the Down syndrome clinic said that she thought she could see some cavities in Kellsey's ... [Link]
Yeah, but Houdini didn't have these hips. » Souvenir
"I've got a bone to pick with you!" my mom said on the phone this afternoon. "Do you remember a long time ago you gave me a bag of toys to donate? I left it in the back of my car and forgot about it for months and months. Today I took it into the principal's office and dropped the ... [Link]
EmmaSage » Oh how divine.....
Pop on over to Simply me to see an incredible give away, that I would be tickled pink to win.......
Simply me 
Big Blueberry Eyes » Buddy Cruise
I want to go on a Buddy Cruise! This year the cruise is right after the NDSC Annual Convention in Orlando, FL. I just don't think we're going to be able to attend both; although I'd sure like to!
"Buddy Cruise Inc. is a not for profit organization serving families and friends of individuals with Down syndrome on a national level. ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Here we go……again.
I’ve got a huge pot of millet on the stove. I’m making it to use in Parker’s blenderized diet. Millet has an 11% protein content and is GLUTEN FREE. I toasted it before I started it on a boil, and my house smells so good.
While the millet cooks, I wanted to take a moment to let you know ...
[Link]The Keirnan Clan » Cookie Is Ours!
Well, we made it over to the dog rescue on Saturday and we were approved to adopt the dog! We are now the proud owners of Cookie. He is smaller than I thought and looks more like a poodle than I expected, but he seems like a very sweet dog. He slept in the crate most of the way home-which ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » POTD #15 - Eating Is Hard Work
Mom-Blog: Parenting, life, growth, and sanity » Crazy weekend!
Tooth broke. On popcorn. This happened to my mother a number of times but she wasn’t as young as me, so I’m sort of freaked out. We’re known for having really strong teeth in my family. I didn’t swallow it, but I did spit it down the drain, not knowing it was my tooth. My thought process was this:
“Hm, that’s ...
[Link]The Bates Motel » Oh, What a Difference a Year Makes!
While settlement was in February, one year ago today was the day we actually physically moved in to our new (first) house. Steve had spent two weeks hard at work getting things ready for that day, turning cold, dirty, monochromatic bachelor pad into warm, welcoming family home. That first night was so exciting, getting used to the new sounds of ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Stuff I can't believe I've said to doctors
"OK, I know he's got microcephaly, but don't you think all that hair hides it well?"
"I'm sorry, I'm not convinced you know what you are talking about."
"The other day he grabbed one of my nipples while he was breastfeeding, I thought it was a good sign he's going to be able to use his hands, what do you ...
[Link]MY COOL FAMILY » On My Mind Monday
I had an idea for On My Mind Monday. I was reading my home page on Saturday that profiled the 10 most expensive counties in the US. Most of which are in VA and other areas surrounding the nations capitol. Does anyone else think this is odd? Maybe more than odd, it is wrong.
I was told by a few family ... [Link]
* Cornish Adoption Journey * » The normall blog
The other blog I linked over to isn't something I'm ready to move over to at the moment. Some people have asked about accessing it and whether I'll keep it password protected or open it up to the public, etc...
Right now I'm just playing around with the Wordpress format and trying to learn what I can do there. I don't ... [Link]
Beneath the Wings » Intimidation
Today my husband was sitting in the window waiting for ricki to arrive home from school. She was late, and he was worried. Suddenly we received a phone call, from “R”, Ricki’s former afternoon a
ctivity director at the afternoon program.
“Did you know that Ricki is here? She querried.
So I went to fetch Ricki, who had NOT really wanted ... [Link]
Raising Reid » Snow Day at School
Recently at school Reid and his little friends had a "Snow Day" where the school had a company come and drop off loads and loads of snow for the kids to play in. Reid eventually loved it, but was a little unsure of what to do at first...he kept saying, "Oh no, oh no!!" because he had snow all over ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » POTD #14 - Haircuts
Frank and Kameron went to get haircuts yesterday... they both needed them BADLY... Kameron probably worse than Frank. And Kameron came back with his SHORT! Oh well, it will grow back quickly! Here are my boys with their new do's! LOL
Yeah, but Houdini didn't have these hips. » Ugh
I've gained about two pounds over the past seven days and am really looking forward to kicking myself back into gear with diet and exercise this week.
Last week we had a wonderful visit from my in-laws. I love my mother- and father-in-law. And I can't blame them for my weight gain; sure there was extra food around but I ... [Link]
* Cornish Adoption Journey * » Sick.
I am sick. I started feeling a little yucky on Thursday and Friday woke up feeling crummy. Here it is Sunday and it's no better. Lynae seems to have the same thing- coughing, phlegmy, and now a low-grade fever. Not fun stuff.
Brianna might be doing a bit of the same, but she's had upper respiratory 'rattles' since December... and yes, ... [Link]
2 Pirates and a Princess » Sunday night
I've been upstairs with the younger two, listening to David "help" Samuel with his Torah homework...for the past HOUR. Poor Sam. David is really pushing him, but they are having a good conversation about the two portions (every week, Sam has to do a Summary and Commentary on two Torah portions. By the end of the school year, they will ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Magic Marker Monday — Lions, Tigers And Bears…
" 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…
This week we have lions and tigers and bears …
And penguins, beavers, mice and ...
[Link]Garden of Eagan » Protecting yourself: Watermarking photos
Last week, after the mess that happened with the NDSC poster contest, lots of people have wondered what they can do to protect themselves from cyber creeps like those who stole the pictures off the NDSC website.
I wrote a tutorial on my favorite forum about watermarking, and am posting it here as well.
..........................................
Other than NOT posting pictures, the only way ... [Link]
Days with Dylan » Yes!! Cont...
Right before bed last night, I was able to capture Dylan's new skill on video!
Ahhh, this is such a huge accomplishment, it really is. And means just so much more, as it was not easily achievable for us. Dylan worked hard, and as it goes, once he was ready, he did it.
Dylan totally knows he should be proud, too. Every ... [Link]
Elliott's Nest » Bye Bye Grammy and Floods
Well, Grammy had to go back home, and we are going to miss her so much. Brendan and Aidan think that now we are going to play with their cousins and Grammy every day. That would be super fun if my sister didn't work every day and my mom lived close by. Sorry boys!
On my mom's last day in town ... [Link]
Pinwheels » Talking, we need more talking
I know I’ve used up so many wishes, when it comes to Avery–please let him be okay (after his breathing issues in the NICU), please let him walk, please let him be okay (again, after surgery in Seattle) and now a new one: please let him talk.
I want Avery to have more words, and better enunciation, so that folks other than me ...
[Link]Little Wonders » Jake Matthew Needham
"On the day you were born, the Earth turned, the moon pulled, the Sun flared, and, then, with a push, you slipped out of the dark quiet where suddenly you could hear ...
... a circle of people singing with voices familiar and clear.
"Welcome to the spinning world, "the people sang, as they washed your new, tiny hands. "Welcome to the ... [Link]
The Seal Bark » American Girl Doll Tea Party
Hadley is THE party planner. She has been planning and talking about her "American Girl" Birthday party for at least 3 months. She knew she wanted an AG doll party but wasn't sure about any of the other details. I threw out a few ideas, like modge podging something with stuff cut out of AG catalogs, but was quickly shut ... [Link]
ever forward, Maya » Maya is 2!!!!
today my little baby turns 2! wow, i can't believe how fast time has flown by. i've had her in my life for 2 years? it feels like it was just yesterday that i held her in my arms for the first time.
what can i say, there is so much that has gone on this last year. maya has become ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » POTD #13 - Getting Closer...
As we draw closer to deployment, we break out this Elmo DVD... it talks about deployments, homecomings and changes. This DVD is free to all Military families and it's one of the many resources we are thankful for, especially living in a household of Elmo loving kiddos! 
Days with Dylan » Yes!!
Tonight as we played on the floor, I looked over at Dylan. He was lying flat on his belly across the room. He glanced up at me and started to point to his wrist. I was confused, but said, "Time? Time, Dylan?". He then proceeded to push himself UP TO A SITTING POSITION!!! So, not only did he independently get ... [Link]
Wintertree Design : Liita Forsyth » a very happy birthday! » love what you do
I was planted into a culture that believes that work is work and play is play and never the twain should tangle. But a handful of years ago I quit believing that. I often find myself mesmerized by articles about people living their dream.
So, here’s my simple dream plan: Create something every day. Above are projects from ...
Stumbo Family Story » Thank You For Giving
I don't know that there will be enough words to say "thank you" to all those who helped us bring Nina home. The longer she is with us the more she feels like she is mine, and I am not babysitting her as much as I used to. This last week I was reminded of the reasons why we adopted ... [Link]
Sunflower Stories » Saturday Salads: Pear, Feta, Radish Salad
I made this salad for Sean's Teacher Appreciation lunch this week and they asked for the recipe. So I thought, hey, maybe that can be a blog post or even series idea. I LOVE salads and often make ones we like then forget later what I put in them. Hopefully this will help me remember them. :)
Pear, Feta, Radish Salad ... [Link]
Prince Vince Meets the World » Should Have Known
Edgar is nowadays sporting no less than two almost teeth. They are already through, but not very big so far. I guess that along with his rash (that seems to both be getting better and worse) is what makes him uncomfortable at night. It is 6,30 pm and I am thinking of going to bed. I will stay up till after ...
[Link]MY COOL FAMILY » Saturday is a Special Day
It's the day we get ready for Sunday.
I am dying to get out and round up the weeds. Plant trees. Do a burn of raked weeds and leaves. But, like every Saturday, it's cold and wet. Last year we never got a jump start on our yard because it rained every Saturday for 2 months. This year, Although I hope ... [Link]
Elliott's Nest » Computer Skills
We have really been pushing computer skills with Aidan. His fine motor skills are not great, and it appears to me that it will take him a long time to have decent handwriting skills. I know they will come eventually, and it is very crucial to work on such things, but I also think that if he has great computer skills ... [Link]
Mama Monkmee » Getting Ready For Will.
Ok it'a getting closer, according to my ticker I have 27 days til my c-section on April 9th. I've been a major slacker in my blogging, but really I've been tired. Ok so to a few updates then the fun pictures of baby stuff.
Alex
Is doing good it's hard to believe my baby will be 5 in a couple weeks. He's ... [Link]
Little Wonders » Alrighty then ...
Interesting 24 hours, wouldn't you say?But,in true Needham fashion, we are back in the swing of things ... a little 'ole appendix can't slow us down.Jess is coming right along.Thanks in part to her new best friend... Vicodin.Most of her pain is some referred shoulder pain,which is a side effect of the anesthesia.She's sore and tired.Nothing a few days of ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Mom Tantrum
I'm TOTALLY doing this the next time Keeghan throws a fit! ROFL 
Grace Between the Lines » Happy Birthday to our Snowbirds!
Dad and Menny are so busy having fun somewhere warmer than here for a LONG time. so we can't share hugs and kisses in person. BUT we want to wish them both (yes, one day apart) an awesome birthday and blessings for many more happy and healthy years.
We love you!! Happy birthday!!
With love from all of us!! 
Life According to Emma & Joe » Growing Up.
The kids were out of school today. It was also the last day of MSU's spring break. In the morning we did errands. Emma went with me to Home Depot to purchase brighter light bulbs and new switchbacks. I spent the rest of the morning changing bulbs, cleaning lights and replacing switchbacks. Besides that, I have been touching up the ... [Link]
Life According to Emma & Joe » Half-day and bowling
Yesterday the kids had a half-day of school so we went to the bowling alley in the afternoon. After that, we walked around old town and ate at Pablos, our favorite restaurant. All in all, a fun day together. Emma requested that her favorite song "firefly" accompanies this slideshow (sorry).
Dylan Update » IEP
This week I had my IEP. This means that Mommy sat down with all my teachers and therapists from school and we developed a plan for my next school year. Can we say, 'kindergarten'? Yep. I'm heading to big, big boy school.
Mommy will be the first to admit she was actually sick to her stomach thinking about this IEP and ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » POTD #12 - Kellsey Update - 3 months home
As of last Friday, Kellsey has been home for 3 months! I meant to get an update out last week, but it was kind of a crazy day! So what has this month brought for Kellsey? On February 18th, we met with the cardiologist and found out about Kellsey's heart. She's doing very well on her heart medication, Enalapril. I've ... [Link]
Little Wonders » Quick Update ...
Jessica is doing fine.Surgery was pretty straight forward as surgeries go.Mark and I collapsed in bed around 1:30 am.Morning came way too fast.Up and moving with the little ones.Joe and Jake are at school.Zoey and I are hanging here for a bit.Mark is going by the hospital to deliver a yummy Jamba Juice to the patient.I will head up when ... [Link]
MY COOL FAMILY » Lesson Learned
I have learned over the years, that growth comes when you are at a low in your life. I have learned that you are teachable when you are not prideful.
As some of you know, I am training to run my first 1/2 marathon in April. This has been hard. Finding time to run my weekly long run, has been the ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » Friday Freebie
Freebies received: Fekkai glossing hair cream, Purex 3-in-1 laundry sheets
- Fill out the form for 2 free Huggies Snug and Dry samples.
- Get a free download of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland through Mar 16th.
- Print out a coupon and bring it to any Sephora inside JC Penney for a free sample of Too Faced Lash Injection Pinpoint mascara.
- Chose a ... [Link]
RYLIE » Update
Rylie was sent to CHOP last night because she was in pain, and her pediatrician wanted them to do an MRI on her back.
While waiting in the ER her pain subsided quite a bit(ANSWERED PRAYER!!!!). The doctors checked her out and didn't feel that her pain warranted an MRI. They gave her some pain medication and sent her home. Apparently ... [Link]
Three Weddings » Things That Make Me Happy
Melissa tagged me last week to participate in the Things That Make Me Happy meme. She challenged herself by not listing the obvious, husband, kids, family, answers, so I’ll try to do the same. (After I go make Peanut brush her teeth. Grrrr)
Ok, I’m back. Here are are my 10, in no particular order.
- Ice cream – mmm. ...
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Enduring Family Events Part 2
Last week I shared that I was anxious about how Matthew would behave at my dad's 80th birthday party bash.
Want to know how it went? Take a look at these photos for some clues:
My wonderful dad
Matthew sharing "Pretty Woman" with his cousins
Dad with his grandchildren
Matthew with his uncle Scott
Me with Andy, Matthew's younger brother
... [Link]Little Wonders » Never a dull moment ...
Quick, quick post... Jessica is having emergency appendectomy surgery. Within, oh say, an hour. Scrambling to figure out the little ones. Zoey is fast asleep. I am putting the boys to bed now. Mark is still in Hollywood. I think sweet Julie, Madison's mommy, is coming over to sit with the kids... we Needham's like to keep things interesting don't ... [Link]
* Cornish Adoption Journey * » My Normal Family
I'm trying out wordpress at the moment... trying my hand at figuring it out and seeing if it's something that I'd like to use in the future to allow more personalized things to be added to the blog.
But for now, you're welcome to come visit me over on My Normal Family to see a little tidbit about us on a ... [Link]
Yeah, but Houdini didn't have these hips. » Mud
Sunflower Stories » Preparing for Kindergarten Transition, Phase 2: The Evaluation Report
Deep breath....
This evening Doug and I went to our Parent-Teacher Meeting at Sean's school. The school has volunteers do childcare in the gym so both parents can attend the meeting, thank goodness because it turned into a much longer meeting than I expected. The kids were happy and excited to play together in the gym. Doug and I headed towards ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Life On Hold
Today’s guest post is compliments of Janis from Sneak Peek at Me. You will want to make sure that you add her to your blogroll.
Trust me on this one, k?
(And in case you are wondering if it still hurts, the answer would be YES! Told you I was a wimp.)
__________
Do you ever feel like your Life ...
[Link]RYLIE » No title
Rylie is doing good right now. Prayers have been answered. Thanks everyone. I'll update when I know more. 
RYLIE » update
Doctor said Rylie's back was swollen and the pain was radiating to her front. She'
s on her way to CHOP for an MRI on her back. I would appreciate prayers. 
Elliott's Nest » Rosemary
Today the world lost a beautiful person, my neighbor, Rosemary. She was a feisty 92 years old and lived next door to my parents since we moved into that house when I was in the second grade. We always loved to pester her when we were kids, and I will never forget the summer she taught me to knit in ... [Link]
The Flege Farm » My very first GIVEAWAY!!
If you remember back HERE I talked about how I got the VOICE4U application for the iTouch. Well, now I am giving a VOICE4U application away!!
We are now using this during Mayson's speech at school and private speech. You can add your own pictures and voice too! We use it with her favorite books and not only does her speech ... [Link]
Juxtapositioning » I must be dreaming
You could not make this stuff up.
I can’t really tell you what’s been going on with me lately because, well, I can’t really tell. I hate not being able to tell, because not only could I make it into a good story but there’d be a certain poetic justice in the telling that would be immensely appealing to me. Like ...
[Link]Matthew Nicholas Vawter » On the Up-Swing
Sometimes the challenge seems so very big …
Like a wall that just won’t budge … no matter how hard you push!
.
But a brighter path is just around the corner …
.
And, before you know it, you’re back in the swing of things …
I am happy to report that we are ...
[Link]RYLIE » Some stuff going on with Rylie
On Tuesday Vince took Rylie to her annual eye exam. She sees the eye doctor each year for her Optic Nerve Hypoplasia and astigmatism. Right away the doctor notice that her optic nerves were swollen. That is very serious and she was sent right to the emergency room.
When we arrived at St. Chris's she had blood work which was normal ... [Link]
The Seal Bark » Moments
I overheard Griffin in another room talking to Mia in a sweet, little voice. He came into the room where I was and I wondered what had happened to his little shadow, Mia.
"Griffin, do you know where Mia is?"
"She's taking a nap. I'll show you."
He took me into the living room and showed me Mia laying down on a ... [Link]
Days with Dylan » And just like that...
This:
The sun has disappeared, the temperature has dropped, the raindrops begin to fall, and the window gets firmly shut. Dylan refuses to nap and Cassidy has decided to empty every possible basket of toys that we have in our entire house. The forecast calls for more rain.
But, it's all good. Because among the many other things to be happy ... [Link]
Finnian's Journey » Owchie
This morning, Finn bit me:
So I poked him in the eye.
Okay, okay, it didn't really happen that way. I didn't poke him on purpose!
The Keirnan Clan » Another Cancelation
The week continues to be slow, and I actually was productive today. I made it to the grocery store and got some house work done. Yay me!!!! It has been stormy all day, so Rachel's horseback riding was canceled. I wish I had known all these things were not going to happen this week, so I could have looked forward ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Finger sucking??
OK all you moms out there... someone has to have a good idea on how to stop this! Kellsey has a horrible habit of sucking on her index and middle fingers on her left hand... they are getting all cracked and dry and starting to break open. I remember one of my friends, years ago, whose daughter did this and ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » Exergen TemporalScanner Review & Giveaway
It's always been a struggle to take Kayla's temperature. She doesn't like people invading her personal space, so 'doing' anything to her is met with much resistance. The 'easiest' way I found was to slide a thermometer under her armpit, but it required me forcefully holding her on my lap and holding her arm down - and I knew a ... [Link]
Ramblings of the Bearded One » Embarrassing questions
.
“That’s great. I’ll see you at 10.30 that morning then!”
“Yup, great!”
“Great!”
“Er… just one thing”
“Sure, what?”
“Um… I know this might sound like a bit of an odd question…”
“OK…”
“But…, erm… what kind of coffee do you drink?”
Damn, it’s embarrassing.
Here I am, making arrangements all over the place to get photos of people for my exhibition, and over and above having to ask ... [Link]
Stumbo Family Story » Kid Carriers, Which One Should we Choose?
We have three girl. Three girls that do not always like to walk (okay, one of them cannot walk!) I have an awesome double stroller but it seems like all three of them want to ride on it at the same time. So what to do? Get a triple stroller?
But what about the times that we want to go for ... [Link]
The Bates Motel » 24 Months
The age that Samantha was nearly two years ago? Not the answer I'm looking for...
The amount of time it takes for the earth to revolve around the sun twice? Also not it...
The age at which a private PT has evaluated Samantha's current gross motor development? Bingo.
24 months?
I knew she had been falling further and further behind, but I had no ... [Link]
MY COOL FAMILY » Misunderstood
Ever have one of those days/weeks/months... where you keep saying things wrong? After it comes out, the conversation is over, you realize it wasn't taken the way you meant it. Or one of those days where your child does something you have asked them not to do 4 times that day, or has their 5th poop accident that day and ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » POTD #11 - Another Character Kid!
So remember when Kameron won Character Kid for the month of February? Well, turns out that Kassidy won for her class too! Both of my kids display trustworthiness!!
It was kind of funny because I was at the kids' school in Kameron's class on Monday morning taking in his project for him when we had a fire drill. So his ... [Link]
The Road Not Chosen » I woke up this morning with this song in my head:
How He Loves by John Mark McMillan He is jealous for me, Loves like a hurricane, I am a tree, Bending beneath the weight of his wind and mercy. When all of a sudden, I am unaware of these afflictions eclipsed by glory, And I realize just how beautiful You are, And how great Your affections are for me. And ... [Link]
Prince Vince Meets the World » Good Thing I love him so much…
…as he wakes up EVERY hour in the night the last few weeks…
[Link]
Mom-Blog: Parenting, life, growth, and sanity » Shoe Shopping: That time of year. Again.
The other day, Amelia played in the mud in her Mary Jane’s (the funky, durable, flowered-version that pass for them). They were too filthy to deal with so I left them outside. The next morning, Amelia was dressing for school and refused to put on her sneakers. She wanted her snow boots, but it was too warm. A mini-fit ensued and ...
[Link]Not That You Asked » Blogging about Blogging
One of my favorite tv shows, House, was about a blogger this week. This character couldn't sneeze with blogging about it, which was causing tension in her marriage because her husband didn't enjoy the fact that their every interaction was fodder for the blog, entertainment for strangers. He threatened it was the blog or him. But she was so addicted ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » legoland
The twins just love lego. They play with the large duplo for ages on end - Hannah especially still loves it. Kit ismore into 'little lego'. He saves up his money and gets kits as well as his parents indulging him. I bought them both a Toy Story kit for Hannah's recuperation from T&A surgery. It is ... [Link]
Prince Vince Meets the World » Out and About
Last night I got changed into some jeans and a normal, non BF top. Put on mascara and switched the diaper bag for my Marc Jacobs and headed out. To day care. For a parents conference. My life is so glamorous.
[Link]
Garden of Eagan » Serbia: This is why we're going
It has only been a couple of years that Serbia has allowed children with Down syndrome to be adopted internationally. In fact, UNICEF states "Following a pilot project in 2002, the Serbian government has been engaged in a programme designed to transform residential institutions for children and youth with the support of UNICEF and the Norwegian government. A major goal ... [Link]
ever forward, Maya » wordless wednesday
The Road Not Chosen » There Is A Season
My blog friend Barbara Curtis reminded us today that to everything there is a season. (Ecclesiastes 3) In my little corner of the universe this is a lean, very lean season. When Evan was born, neither Harold nor I had a job, having both been laid off. It was 1988 in Los Angeles. Harold couldn’t find a job of any ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Q&A #143
So Renee....I'm thinking maybe a Kassidy Q&A for the 150th. Or the 160th. Either way, I think a Kassidy Q&A is in the near future. How does that sound?? =]
Ahhh how about the 200th?! LOL I would need to get on the ball and collect questions from all of you and then actually pull out the camera and DO IT! ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » A Bedroom Re-do: Special Needs Style
Update: I want to thank EVERYONE for their most amazing ideas. We won’t be doing anything for a while, most likely summer. Which will give me time to either find something for free (keeping my fingers crossed), or save up a bit as I look around at yardsales, etc.
I’ve written before about Parker’s safe room.
Days with Dylan » Isn't it the best?
This:
That perfectly almost-warm, extra-sunny, pre-spring kind of day.
The day when you can finally crack the windows a bit and welcome some much needed fresh air.
The day when you can play outside, while soaking up the sun, without the hassle of the million winter layers.
The day when you watch your daughter re-learn how to ride her Dora big wheel, noticing ... [Link]
Elliott's Nest » Enjoying the Small Things
I know that just about every one of my bloggy friends is over the moon about this blog lately, and I, too, can't seem to quit reading it. Every evening I can't wait to see if there is an update. Little Nella is just about as cute as can be. I don't know what I love best about this blog, between ... [Link]
The Bates Motel » Wordless Wednesday: The Eyes Have It
The Keirnan Clan » I Think I am Done Now
After about four complete makeovers, I think I have settled on the new look for the blog. The first template was just too dark; the second was too hard to read; the third just wasn't me. I figured this fourth and final template was fitting.......what with the Keirnan Irish heritage and the clovers. Not to mention, I really liked the ... [Link]
Life According to Emma & Joe » CNN: New mom with baby girl
A new mom to baby Nellie will be on CNN next Tuesday to talk about her blog that discusses her surprise when she found out her baby was born with T21. Click HERE to see the promotional for the story. 
Life According to Emma & Joe » Ready for summer camp?
The 2010 Camp Pa-Wa-Pi brochure is out and Emma is on the front and on page 3! What a camper, Dad would be proud. 
Beneath the Wings » No title
This is a twenty-minute video , and is worth every minute!!! The speaker was born without fibula bones, and today is an athelete (and more). Her talk is on disability-society's view of disability, and the need to encourage in ourselves adaptability. 
Elliott's Nest » Grammy
Right now the baby is napping, Aidan is playing with a toy truck and Brendan is playing with a new game Grammy just got him (Uno Moo!) and it is very quiet and peaceful in the house. I am going to try to sneak away for a minute and update this blog. I haven't had the energy lately. For over ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Enough To Go Around?
One of my greatest worries as a parent of multiple children is whether I spend enough quality time and give enough attention to each of them. As a parent of children with disabilities, this worry is greater than average, I believe.
Ashley is my child that needs the most hands-on assistance. She cannot be left alone in the bath or shower. ...
[Link]Big Blueberry Eyes » Special Exposure Wednesday
Kayla and Lucas found a fun way to play with the dump truck:
[Link]
Stumbo Family Story » The Walking Continues
Today when our Physical Therapist brought out the gait trainer (walker) Nina was not very excited.
"No, no walker. No walker Nina"
"Let's try it, it will be fun!" I said
"No, no fun, no walker. No walking Nina."
But she had no choice. And so she was strapped in the walker. Jamie (our physical therapist) decided to go walk around the hospital and ... [Link]
Stumbo Family Story » Casted for AFOs
Remember a few weeks ago when I wrote this post? I mentioned than Nina will be getting AFO's (ankle-foot orthosis). Well, today, she got casted and her AFO's are only a few weeks away!
First, they slid this thin sock on Nina's feet where the fiber glass would go over. 
Then, the yellow plastic strip went over the "sock" and the ... [Link]
All 4 My Gals » I miss Gracie!
This is one of Tarenne's best friends from last year's class. I LOVE this little girl and miss seeing her so much! 
Finnian's Journey » Wordless Wednesday
Stumbo Family Story » Big oops on the last speech post!
So, I am learning right? And sometimes terms can get very confusing and jumbled up together resulting in something completely different than originally said.
We had talked briefly about apraxia (because of Nichole) and Sara mentioned a word starting with letter "d" so, in my brain I put the two together and all of a sudden Nina had verbal dyspraxia. Which ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » POTD #10 - Happiness is...
My mom always says, "Happiness is parking next to a cart corral." And I'd have to agree, especially when I have all the kids in the car with me... or even just one kid in the car! I always try to look for a parking spot next to a cart corral and count myself lucky when I find one!
When I ... [Link]
Mom-Blog: Parenting, life, growth, and sanity » Giveaway: 100% Bamboo bag & Stainless Steel food container
This week’s giveaway is something a little different! During the schoolyear, New Wave Enviro sent me a bamboo lunch bag, and a stainless steel food container. Amelia has been using these products – and I love them!
The lunch bag is made of 100% bamboo – and, oh it is soft and luscious. God forbid there is ever a lockdown at ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » Pre Easter Update
Just cruisin'. This was taken last week - before DH bought me a fantastic 2nd hand slr camera - I can't wait to play around with it... 
Both kids have found the new routine tiring - I love this picture of my strapping boy - I wonder how much longer before he drops all those beautiful little boy traits he ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » Voice
A grub got into Shamptons - thanks to Mahatma Ghandi I think - anyway I think I have slayed the beastie - so here is a FANTASTIC cover treat for everyone:
NSW and Vic Down Syndrome Associations have joined forces to produce this excellent members journal - this edition focussed on education - with some great articles to help us ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » First 'lost' tooth
It's done. When Kit came and told me his tooth was wobbly (just days after starting kindergarten) I cried. I didn't need yet another sign that my boy was growing up. Tonight - it fell out. It looks so small and precious. How do I preserve it I wonder? I have googled all sorts of stories - from glycerine and ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » Keeping up
I was thinking about the jones's today - Hannah has meant that I rarely get up more than a feeble attempt to compete with them - and hence I have developed a great respect for those that still give it a go. Hannah spends so much of her time - "keeping up" that I am in total AWE.
Today we signed ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » term 1
Kit's 'favourite toy' for school homework was this plane he made with his Pop out of scraps of timber - how cool is that? You gotta love this kid. 
hannah's 'favourite toy' for school homework activity. 
A big day at school - the routine kicks in... 
Oh dr@t just lost a whole paragraph. Anyways things in the dock are ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » Tonsils and adenoids
We got the twins some Toy Story lego as part of Hannah's recuperation package. 
We survived! TOday is day 6 and Hannah seems to be doing great - I am holding back the pain meds - will see how she goes at eating some breakfast and adjust then if need be. She was of course a trooper. Just before she ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » I didn't cry!!
The brats had a great first day of school. It was the same day as the fed gov released its MySchool website - where parents could look up the basic testing results for each school and compare these to the state average and to so called 'similar schools'. This morning's paper (in the public interest) printed 'leauge tables' of all ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » Rogues Gallery
On Monday I took the twins out to visit their cousins while my SIL had some medical appointments to go to - her 4th baby - born at 32 weeks came home that afternoon (Yay!!! - I'll have to get back out there to visit her - she is adorable). We took advantage fo the cousins all being ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » Hearts
I'm not sure what to title this post, in fact I'm not even sure what I want to say really. Today I labelled the twins' school uniforms. I felt teary the whole time, I feel a little like a part of me is being ripped out. They have been my centre of being for the past 5 years and I ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » More holidays
We took the kids to the Powerhouse Museum on the weekend - it was a big hit - especially this lit up rubics cube in the 80s exhibition. 
That's how it feels - like I have yet more holidays - and it's a great feeling! I love these summer holidays - they are one of the best things about teaching. ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » 787 photoes
We rented a house at the beach with another family. It was a blast. Very relaxing. Lots of fun. 
One afternoon rather than go back to the beach Hannah opted to play on the swings instead. 
Kit loved splashing about in the water, jumping waves. 
It might have been snow ... except for the heat! 
... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » Twins - togetherness
I had a lovely afternoon at home with the brats today. I decidded to clean up their plastic playhouse and move it somewhere more accessible in the hopes that they get good use out of it in the remaining weeks of our holidays before starting school. Anyhow while I was taking pics they started these poses - I thought that ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » Pearl Beach
SHAMPTONS » Little Chef
There is a Masterchef craze here at the moment. Kit asked the shopping centre Santa for a masterchef dvd for Christmas (which he got as well as the cookbook!). It was a huge hit on tele here - lots of kids enjoyed it with their parents apparently sales of kitchen equipment soared. I must say that I enjoyed watcing it ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » Gone
Yeears ago DH and I lived in East Balmain - at the end of our street was one of the 'hotspots' for viewing the NYE fireworks. They used to block off the main road leading down to the water. We ahd some great NYE there and from our back yard in Jan we'd also enjoy the summer fireworks at Darling ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » DS
The twins' cousins have DSs - and so I know they've seen them before although I don't think they've had a go on one - when their cousin who is one year older than them came for a sleep over - he brought his favourite Christmas present - a new DS. Kit was fascinated and when he finally got to ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » Rain
It's raining here today - heavy set in rain. It started on Christmas Day - after lunch thank goodness!! We had all of DHs family here (except our newest edition - who is still in newborn special care as she was born at 32 weeks - she is divine and doing great - and with us all in spirit). It ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » Party Frocks
Hannah is enjoying the goreous dolls house that her Pop made for her, the dancing dolly Santa brought and the party frocks... 
SHAMPTONS » The Wiggles
Yesterday we visited some frineds of ours (happy birthday Hugo!) and then in the afternoon we wiggled. It was great - I love it as much as the kids! I wonder if I'll still be able to go when they are 'too old'? At least I know my girlfriend will still come with me! She and I had a ball ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » normal
Long Day Care End of Year Social 
Having a picnic on her 'spoilt' day - after her seizure scared the life out of us!! 
EI Party
Her ball skills were actually better than this photo implies - she loved this activity. 
The ice cream was a big hit 
From Dictionary.com
nor⋅mal /ˈnɔrməl/ Show Spelled Pronunciation [nawr-muhl] Show IPA
Use normal in ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » EEG
Well the EEG went well this morning. The traffic across twon is terrible at the moment - everyone is out and about in the lead up to work and there is a bis strike today as well. So we left home in plenty of time - and got to have a smoothie beforehand. Hannah was a little unsure but otherwise ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » Sad
There are so many things I could write about - and photoes I'd love to post but for tonight all I can think about is Hannah - in hospital tonight for observation and tests after she had a seizure this afternoon. She had a brief one (her first) in Jan aged 4 and now today - for about 30 secs ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » Christmas concerts and hearts
Yesterday I took Han to see her gorgeous cardiac pediatrician. This man will always have a special place in the heart of our family. I first saw him when I was 22 weeks pregnant - and terrified. He was calm, reassuring and gentle and DH and I liked him immediately. Today he gave Han a clear bill - ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » Closing the door on EI
Learning to walk with a weighted trolley from EI 
As this year ends I would like to write a special thank you to Hannah's EI team. It is the end of our family’s involvement in EI. We have learned so much and will forever feel grateful for the role they played in our family life.
In Oct 2004 I gave birth ... [Link]
Prince Vince Meets the World » Speech (Again)
Speech at the private clinic is going really great. She is excited about Vincent’s development and so are we! We are noticing a lot more words/attempts at words, and we are still encouraging quantity over quality when it comes to pronunciation. There is a mix of Swedish, German and English in the words he is adding. He has a few more words ...
[Link]Beneath the Wings » Special Exposure Wednesday- The Chef!
Ricki frying an egg:
Find MORE of "Special Exposure Wednesday HERE. 
Praying For Parker » The First Swing of Spring
Just a quick FYI: Five Minutes For Mom is hosting another Voice4u giveaway! If you didn’t win one before, head on over there and enter!
It was almost warm enough to swing last week.
In swinging, as in horseshoes, almost is close enough.
Is there something your kid loves, an activity that makes ...
[Link]Life With My Special Ks » OOPS! I forgot!!!
On Sunday I was supposed to post the winners of the LOO LOO giveaway! Remember?! Obviously not since no one reminded me! haha
So, I WAS going to use random.org to pick the 6 winners, but Bill Gillespie, who designed the LOO LOO, was so excited that all of YOU went to visit his website last week that HE decided to ... [Link]
Stumbo Family Story » Is it a Phone or a Banana?
Nina asks for a banana.
Andy gets it for her and as he walks towards her he pretends it is a phone and he is calling grandma.
Nina's eyes are big and wide, she is confused.
Andy hands her the banana.
Nina takes the banana. Examines it, turns it, pokes it.
Nina looks at Andy and says with great wonder and amazement..."WOW!!!"
SHAMPTONS » Pre Easter Update
Just cruisin'. This was taken last week - before DH bought me a fantastic 2nd hand slr camera - I can't wait to play around with it...
Both kids have found the new routine tiring - I love this picture of my strapping boy - I wonder how much longer before he drops all those beautiful little boy traits he ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Special Exposure Wednesday.
He may be special needs
but he is far from disabled.
He has an amazing sense of humour,
an amazing sense of self.
His dream is to become an “American gymnast”. (We live in Australia)
His smile is sunshine on a cloudy day
and somedays, when he slips
and calls me Mum, by accident
my heart quietly sings.
... [Link]2 Pirates and a Princess » Pretty Day
Finally, nice weather has arrived. It's been above 50 for several days now (down into the 20s at night, though). Really a welcome change.
Today, Sam's class had a Publishing Party first thing this morning. Sam wrote about Nurses, of all things. It was interesting. He did a good job. His friend had a very funny piece about "judging a book ... [Link]
Bridget's Light » Notes from PT
Today, Bridget had her weekly physical therapy session at school. Her PT sends a note home each time she works with Bridget. In the note today: a list of the things they worked on together (jumping, going up and down curbs & stairs, tiptoes, running, standing on 1 leg, balance beam, kicking, playing catch). There was also a little note ... [Link]
Mom-Blog: Parenting, life, growth, and sanity » This is Not How I Thought It Would Be: Remodeling Motherhood to Get the Lives We Want Today
Today, Mom-Blog welcomes guest blogger Kristin Maschka, author of the LA Times Bestseller, “This is Not How I Thought It Would Be: Remodeling Motherhood to Get the Lives We Want Today”. She spent four years as the President of Mothers & More, a national non-profit dedicated to improving the lives of mothers. She is an expert on mothers and the social, ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » Voice
A grub got into Shamptons - thanks to Mahatma Ghandi I think - anyway I think I have slayed the beastie - so here is a FANTASTIC cover treat for everyone:
NSW and Vic Down Syndrome Associations have joined forces to produce this excellent members journal - this edition focussed on education - with some great articles to help us ... [Link]
Finnian's Journey » IFSP
We got a copy of Finn's IFSP in today's mail.
Sigh.
I promised myself months ago that I wasn't going to read these things anymore. Because, really, what purpose does it serve except to bring me down? Seeing my son, whom I see every day as sweet and stubborn and clever and ornery and funny, reduced to numbers in a sterile report hurts ... [Link]
Finnian's Journey » IFSP
Life With My Special Ks » POTD #9 - Downtown Clarksville
Frank has been working half days lately. The helicopters in his shop have already taken off for Afghanistan... a sure sign that deployment is near... and so there's not a whole lot to do on Post right now. We so appreciate the half days because it gives him more time to spend with US! Yesterday was a beautiful day here ... [Link]
MY COOL FAMILY » Did You Feel That Bite?
I have felt relatively unscathed by the economy. Luckily so. I have felt grateful that my husband has a job that (knock on wood) is secure. We have a home that we bought for pretty cheap, and I learned long ago to live on a tight budget. All of these things have cultivated a feeling a security in our lives. ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Voice4u is looking for a few good bloggers…..
I shared the story of Yumi, the creator of Voice4u, and her struggle to provide her son with a communication system.
Finally Yumi decided to take the issue into her own hands. She spoke with engineers, therapists, doctors and teachers, and all of these people were able to help her create Voice4u.
Thinking at first that ...
[Link]Stumbo Family Story » Speech and Children with Special Needs
Yesterday Nichole had speech and Nina came along.
Nichole was just having an off day. She was a big rascal and had been getting in trouble all morning, which means that by the time we got to Speech Therapy she had already determined she would not cooperate. Nina, on the other hand, wanted all the attention from the world's best Speech ... [Link]
Ralph and the Crew » No title
I noticed very early on in Ralph's life, that many people have very low expectations for a child with Down Syndrome. I'm glad that he wasn't my first or second child or I might have been inexperienced enough to listen to them.
A neonatologist at Ralph's first hospital was one of these people. She insisted that Ralph would have feeding issues ... [Link]
Three's a Charm » My Son Ate My Calendar!
You've all heard the excuse..."My dog ate my homework!"
Well, today I went to go grab my appointment book which I often call my Bible because it holds EVERYTHING I need to know to function on a daily basis! I found it on the floor near the dining room table and there were a few remnants of wet and chewed paper ... [Link]
Prince Vince Meets the World » FOOOOOOOOOD!
Edgar will be five moths tomorrow, and to celebrate he got some real (baby) food. Parsnip is what was offered.
Not convinced at the first try.
What IS that thing?
In the end he ate quite a lot!
We also made a quick run to the pediatric today, Edgar and I. His skin is REALLY ...
[Link]* Cornish Adoption Journey * » So far today
I've spun around in circles...
- Called CMS to ask them whether the enrollment for medicaid for the 3 kids should be done with their "plan" and how that works.
- Talked to the 'nurse' who began explaining then decided he didn't understand it himself when I asked a question
- Talked to a financial assistant person who told me that most likely medicaid ...
Pinwheels » The Big D
And by that I mean: Discipline.
I sometimes get emails asking me about what we do for discipline with our children, especially Avery, who is an angel-baby and never once did a naughty thing or said “Cow poopoo” to me when I told him it was bed time, or that he needed to put on his coat before going outside. Ahem.
... [Link]Big Blueberry Eyes » Progress Report
I've mentioned before, here, and here, the struggle Kayla has with writing letters and her name...but that she's been working hard at it in school.
One of her IEP goals states "Given a verbal prompt, Kayla will write her name in 4 of of 5 trials with 80% accuracy."
The objectives are:
1. Given a model, Kayla will trace her name in 4 ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » App of the Week #2
What: Talking Carl
By: Awyse
Price: $0.99
Remember when I said that sometimes my apps would be fun and silly and not at all educational? Well... here you go! LOL Meet Talking Carl! My friend Emily told me about Talking Carl last week so we checked him out. He's a cute little guy who may look innocent enough, but when you talk to ... [Link]
Mama Monkmee » Pictures
Little Wonders » A teeny,tiny tease ....
The butterfly's birthday celebration,or should I say birthday extravaganza, was ... incredible.Absolutely incredible.The skies cooperated.No rain until literally the party was winding down.A room filled,to the brim,with friends new and old.All of my children and my sweet,sweet grandbaby,Charlotte, together,in one place.You could actually FEEL the love in that space.And my heart,was full of thanks and gratitude.And my heart,my heart,was overflowing ... [Link]
Beneath the Wings » She gave Herself License…..
I was planning today to write about how Ricki hasn’t stolen borekas for a whole week or so. Progress. (GRIN) Real progress.
Don’t worry- she didn’t.
But imagine my happy balloon deflating as I saw Ricki extracting my VERY EXPENSIVE camera from her school bag this afternoon. In the morning I had caught a shot of her frying an egg (I’ll ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » What happens next?
While I wish I was one of those Moms who could stand proud and exclaim,
“After declining any and all pain medication I not only assisted in the removal of the vast majority of my girly gadgets but ran a 10 mile marathon immediately after.”
I am so not that girl.
If truth be told I’m the girl that insisted ...
[Link]Mom-Blog: Parenting, life, growth, and sanity » Book Review: “This is Not How I Thought It Would Be: Remodeling Motherhood”
A few months back, I received a copy of “This is Not How I Thought It Would Be: Remodeling Motherhood to Get the Lives We Want Today” by Kristin Maschka. I could NOT put it down. I would like to recommend this book to anyone. Kristin Mascha’s book explains in great detail how we have come to the dilemmas that ...
[Link]Garden of Eagan » Finals, airline tickets, international travel....oh my!
It's finally becoming a reality. Shelley's court date for her adoption is next week on the 16th. As soon as court is done and we're given the OK, we can book our flights!
The dates we're looking at now will having me missing 2 weeks of classes, and get me home just in time for finals week. (while recovering from jet ... [Link]
Days with Dylan » The Slide
So, recently I have found myself worrying, as I sometimes do.
I have been trying to figure out how this whole playground experience will work out once the weather improves. I want, so badly, for Dylan to be able to actively participate in his surroundings. I know that he'll want to be down, on the ground, moving around with everyone else ... [Link]
* Cornish Adoption Journey * » Micah’s doing good!
I haven’t used ‘albums’ before in posting, so would love some feedback on whether this is a good format or not! Here’s a try :)
Here are some pic’s from the day before surgery, pre-op, and after at the hospital
Kristopher had his first soccer game this weekend! He’s #5 on the maroon team :) ...
[Link]Yeah, but Houdini didn't have these hips. » Writing Process
A few years ago, I attended the Summer Writer's Institute in Creative Nonfiction at Washington University. It was a fabulous experience: motivational, encouraging, friendship-forming, and very educational. In addition to being a writer of beautiful prose, Kathleen Finneran is one of the best teachers - and editors - I've ever had.
Every night, she gave the class a short writing ... [Link]
Elliott's Nest » Our Random Thoughts
I'm telling you, I feel like I'm on drugs with all of these sunny days we're having. I'm even a huge fan of cloudy rainy days, but every year at this time when the blanket of cloud cover that has hung over central Ohio for 3 months finally lifts, it's exhilarating. A few years back we had a super cold ... [Link]
Beneath the Wings » Update:
Yes, it was definately easier keeping the diet today (after 6 hours of sleep) than yesterday! 
The Flege Farm » It's Fixed!
It's fixed so you can now go back to the NDSC site and vote! You can go HERE to read all about Mayson and her friends and this great contest! Happy voting!!! 
Life With My Special Ks » POTD #8 - Photo Editing Fun!
Some people might say I have too much time on my hands... others might say I'm just a little obsessive. Either way, you have to admit, these are fun! :)
Big Blueberry Eyes » I Heart Faces - Jump For Joy
When I saw the i heart faces photo challenge for this week was "Jump for Joy!" I had to enter this picture of Kayla. She truly does get so much joy from jumping!
[Link]
The Bates Motel » Vote for Sammi!!
Please vote for Samantha in the NDSC’s More Alike than Different campaign poster contest here! She's #136. I heard about the contest just a few hours before the close date for submissions, and rushed to complete it while Samantha was napping. The 1-hour window of her nap time is when I rush to complete a lot of things, and, sadly, ... [Link]
Pinwheels » 100 Kindnessess
I’d told the boys they could each pick out one toy, a bribe for I can’t remember what, maybe working hard and helping out at speech therapy, perhaps it was picking up their room. Avery had already chosen a purple cell phone. I imagine he wanted to keep track of his investments, or stay in close contact with Sock Monkey Doll.
The woman ...
[Link]Mom-Blog: Parenting, life, growth, and sanity » How Much Faith?
Today I awoke feeling miserable. Got to bed earlier than usual, and slept later, so I got a full 8 hours, I think, but still had a neckache, sinus pain, sore eyes, and far too much sinus congestion.
I had no idea that would be a harbinger of bad news.
That kind of “this good thing was supposed to happen ...
[Link]Life With My Special Ks » Don't judge too quickly... we won't.
Raising Reid » A Butterfly's Birthday...
Today we got to celebrate a sweet little friend's 3rd birthday... Zoey Grace. The party theme: Butterflies..... and I must say Zoey was the most precious and adorable butterfly I've ever seen....adorning wings she has most certainly earned over the last three years! I wish I had better pictures to show off her little outfit, mine don't do it justice, ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » In Which I Plead For Your Ideas
He’ll match them.
He’ll identify them.
He’ll sort them.
He’ll stack them.
But for the life of me I can’t get this kid to sign them.
The tension mounts and I resort to pleading.
Parker’s will is always the last one standing.
...
[Link]5 Minutes for Special Needs » Didn't your mama tell you that staring is rude?
I'm at a birthday party with Max at a friend's home. It's really crowded and Max is darting around, uneasily. I'm trotting behind him in case he loses it but keeping a safe distance because I don't want to baby him.
As I follow Max, I notice a few moms staring at him as he passes by. I mean, outright ...
[Link]Yeah, but Houdini didn't have these hips. » The Thought That Counts?
Recently I spent time with a cute little girl, a classmate of my daughter's. She told me how she prefers spending time with one grandmother over the other because one does whatever she says and gives her whatever she wants. She also told me all about her brand-name stuff, the movies she gets to see in the theater, and the ... [Link]
The Seal Bark » Way better than snow caves!
(Post written by Gavin)
The Scout troop decided to go down to Snow Canyon for the February overnighter. This camp is a four hour drive south - away from the snow. I learned from the experience last year, not to allow the boys to eat several cans of Pringles on the ride down. Jack taught me this lesson the hard way. ... [Link]
Sunflower Stories » Life as a 7.5 year old Boy
Lately I have been thinking about all the fun things Aidan says and does that just excite us. Watching his mind explore different thoughts and learn new concepts is so fun. I can't say enough how pleased I am with his public school education, we feel very blessed to have found a great school for him. Doug and I try ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » POTD #7 - Birthday Dinner
Last night we went to dinner with a bunch of our friends... it was really two-fold... to celebrate my birthday and so Frank could see everyone before he deploys. It was our family, and my mom, the Litchfields, the Porters, and the Myers (Jamie wasn't there because he's deployed right now). I love all these families so much. We always ... [Link]
Beneath the Wings » Have to Make a Change…..
Yesterday I did something I haven’t done for a LONG time. I binged. I was working hard, tired (not enough sleep), and just ate and ate and ate.
But the thing is not to be angry at myself. I have to analyze what happened (too little sleep….), and make an appropriate change. Hopefully I will update with the results! 
Ramblings of the Bearded One » Are you scared of your face?
On the surface, this seems like an outrageous statement. And yet, my experience as a portrait photographer is leading me to believe most people are to some extent.
Our faces are our ambassadors to the world. They represent us. They express our interests and our disapprovals. They are the visible exterior of how others see us.
And yet, the moment a ... [Link]
Grace Between the Lines » Phone Follies
I generally called Annette or she me at least once a week. Since she lived long distance, I dialed an eighteen digit number (an extra 7 digits to get cheap long distance of course).
My fingers flew over the keypad faster than my mind could think of the numbers. It was just an automatic physical reaction to key in those numbers ... [Link]
2 Pirates and a Princess » Made it through the weekend
Well, I'm pleased to say that the Zithromax seems to have worked. Micah's fine, and Sam's improving. He's still got a cough, but it's not nearly as bad as it was. He went back to school on Thursday and Friday.
Thursday night I got to go to dinner with my friend K, which was nice, but we were both exhausted and ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Magic Marker Monday — WALL-E Doodles…
" 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…
A little WALL-E and EVE doodling to cap off your weekend.
With WALL-E's little ...
[Link]Life According to Emma & Joe » Emma's art
Emma standing outside of the gallery during the opening reception.
Emma contributed two suns.
Her orange sun with sun glasses.
Her blue speckled sun.
Amy & Emma standing near her blue speckled sun.
Joe pointing at Emma's art. 
EmmaSage » Working it out through song.....
My whole life, music has always played an important part. When Emma Sage was first born, I noticed that if I played various pieces of music, she responded differently, and began to incorporate music into all of our 'therapy' [you might recall, but I provided all of Emma Sage's therapies at home or in programs in the general population [we were ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Not in a Twilight Kind of Way
I went in for some surgery last week.
I figured it would take me a few days but that I would be back up and running lickety split.
Does anyone even say lickety split anymore?
Must be the drugs.
Had a couple of things happen that weren’t on the original game plan.
Even talked my doctor out of a blood ...
[Link]Life With My Special Ks » Q&A #142
Can I have the lobster soup recipe?
Here you go! And here's a picture Frank took with his phone! LOL
Ingredients
1-1/2lb Lobster
4oz Butter
2oz Carrots (Diced)
1 Small Onion (Chopped)
1/2 Bay Leaf Pinch of Thyme
2 Sprigs of Fresh Flat Leaf Parsley
3 Tablespoons Cognac
3fl oz Dry White Wine
4fl oz Fish Stock
2oz Plain Flour
12fl oz Boiling Milk
3 Tablespoons Double Cream
Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » KEEN
A couple months ago I came across this organization in a magazine - KEEN - Kids Enjoy Exercise Now.
What caught my eye is their mission statement: 
KEEN is a national, nonprofit volunteer-led organization that provides one-to-one recreational opportunities for children and young adults with developmental and physical disabilities at no cost to their families and caregivers. KEEN's mission is to foster ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » iPod Touch Winner!!!
Thank you to everyone who entered the iPod Touch Giveaway to help Zhora find his forever family!!! We raised $675 for Zhora's fund because of you! We let Kennedy pick the winner of the iPod tonight before bed... Keeghan and Kellsey made an appearance too! haha Winner, contact me with your address and I will send it onto Lisa who ... [Link]
