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.
Prince Vince Meets the World » Norway
Even though I grew up about an hour from the Norwegian border, I have never been to Norway. Lie, I take that back, we went across once to Halden when I was 5 and we stayed for 20 minutes or so. But yesterday Edgar and I arrived in a very snowy Kristiansand. We are here for an international Early Intervention conference. So far ...
[Link]ever forward, Maya » a special birthday...
just a quick note to share the best birthday present i got today. while we had breakfast at a local restaurant, maya out of the blue said "bu-bye" to a total stranger. this was the second time in the last week that she has said "bu-bye" to someone. i can see that there is a shift going on in her ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Dear Collin Raye, I Think I Love You.
A friend sent me the link to this YouTube video a few days ago.
I would have shared it with you sooner, except each time I watch it I sob.
Yes, sob.
Collin Raye expresses my heart with his words.
I wish I had the ability to take my feelings and weave them into a medium that could convey what is ...
[Link]Yeah, but Houdini didn't have these hips. » Commute
I like my daughter's preschool. I like the location, the teachers, the director, all of it.
Yet I gave up her spot there for next year and drove across three suburbs to put Ada on a waiting list for another preschool. One that costs twice as much and is further away. (She's second on the waiting list for the schedule ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Absent blogger!
I'm apparently recovering from our Super Bowl Party! LOL I can't believe I haven't blogged all day today! Actually, I've just been incredibly busy! We DID have a lot of fun at our party! We ate and ate and ate and we played Apples to Apples and we laughed and talked... we made Kellsey face her fear of dogs... oh... ... [Link]
Ramblings of the Bearded One » Normal Service Will Resume Shortly... if we ever figure out what normal is...
Sunflower Stories » Preparing for Kindergarten Transition, Phase 1: The ABAS
I thought it might be helpful to other parents if I could try to write about some of our stages in this process. I hope to have a series of these posts before school starts in the Fall.
Last week, I got a call from the school district psychologist, informing me that he would be sending a form home in Sean's ... [Link]
* Cornish Adoption Journey * » paperwork
I've been arranging all the paperwork for all the kids today! Trying to get all the names of all their doctors in one place, all their diagnosis, medications (with a 'history' of meds too), last doctors' visits (that part is going to take a while!), addresses and phone #s of all their doctors! Then there's therapists, hospitalizations, tests they've had ... [Link]
2 Pirates and a Princess » Never EVER a dull moment!
What a weekend! What a week!
I spent most of last week prepping for Friday and Saturday's "Shabbat Yachad", the Day School "Shabbat Together", which was at my own shul.
Of course, I say "most of" but that's not really true. Monday, Sofia missed school due to excessive sniffles, so she came with me to get my thumb stitches out.
Wednesday I had ... [Link]
Where There's A Will » Superbowl
You probably don't ever have the cause to call your cousin to ask to borrow a trap, but that is what I did on Thursday night. Olivia is working on a history project in which she is George Simpson, trapper, governor, businessman. She needs to come up with a pizza box "suitcase" of the person she studying. Luckily I have ... [Link]
Where There's A Will » Taking the time to....
... Enjoy the Small Things.
We are all in for a treat when we visit Kelle at Enjoying The Small Things as she is a new mommy to a beautiful little girl who was born *with a little extra* and an awesome photographer. I so loved reading her account of little Nella's birth story as so many of her observances seemed ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Giving in to your child's special needs
The scene: McDonald's. My husband just picked me up from the airport (I went to the Blissdom conference in Nashville), and we're eager to down lunch. We walk in, and Max makes a beeline for a corner table he likes to sit at. Max has this thing about tables at restaurants: At the handful of ones we go to, he ...
[Link]The Keirnan Clan » Not Like The Old Days
These days, so many neighborhoods here in Florida are relatively new. This means there are no old trees to climb. This has not slowed down my girls! Good thing they are small for their age!
Big Blueberry Eyes » Growing Too Fast
I know it's a cliche for parents to say their children grow up too fast; in the blink of an eye they aren't your baby anymore...and we can't believe how fast time passes.
But it's all true.
Kids really do grow up so fast.
Lucas is in a fun stage right now...all the learning they do at this age and exploring the world ... [Link]
Sunflower Stories » We've waited YEARS for this...
Sean took BITES.
Sean CHEWED.
Sean SWALLOWED.
FOOD.
Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com
Not paper, or cardboard, or a book. Actual food. And he loved it. He ate probably 20 french fries all on his own. Hours later, when I went to the grocery store with Aidan, he asked Doug if I would get more fries for him.
Hot damn! I've never loved McDonald's ... [Link]
Ten Squares, Three Squiggles » Remember me?
Hi little bloggy blog. Remember me? I know I've been gone for quite a while but have renewed my commitment to posting to you. Caden has grown quite a bit and is doing all kinds of amazing new things. Things that must be shared! Stay tuned .... 
Elliott's Nest » Someday
by Alison McGhee and Peter H. Reynolds
One day I counted your fingers and kissed each one.One day the first snowflakes fell, and I held you up and watched them melt on your baby skin.One day we crossed the street, and you held my hand tight.Then, you were my baby, and now you are my child.
Sometimes, when you sleep, I ... [Link]
The Seal Bark » Baby's got back
Mia received the last of her 2 year old birthday surprises . . . 4 shots at her well baby check up. She cried big tears but was quickly soothed with lots of kisses, a sticker and a lollipop. She also had a little surprise for the doctor . . . an ear infection. Of course she showed no signs ... [Link]
Yeah, but Houdini didn't have these hips. » More City Museum
I've blogged about The City Museum. (also here)
But the place really defies explanation. If you ever find yourself anywhere near St. Louis, please make a point of stopping by. You won't regret it!
Or maybe you will. I can't imagine how The City Museum insures itself. Imagine a community of contemporary sculpture artists. And some creative kids. And ... [Link]
Little Wonders » And We Move Forward ....
First, I want you to go back and look at these two pictures because I want to point out something to you.Zoey loves sitting up at the counter.Especially when the boys are up there eating or doing homework or in this case drawing.Jake asked Zoey if she wanted to draw.To which she promptly nodded her head yes.Jake gave her ... [Link]
Dream Big » Clean Cup Please
Last week after days and days of super stinky potty diapers, I took Chelsea to the dr. where they taped a plastic bag to her girl area. I know, sounds horrifying, but when you're not potty trained, that's the only way to get a potty test done. The funny thing is I'm pretty sure I could have that kid potty ... [Link]
Ralph and the Crew » When you say retard...
...you are talking about him. And he is NOT stupid.
Many thanks to The Unknown Contributor for telling the unvarnished truth.
Whenever you say “that’s retarded” or “Stop being retarded” you are referencing my daughter. You are saying that something is stupid, like my daughter. That it is useless, like my daughter, worthless like my daughter.
The medical community (uh, unlike ...
[Link]Beneath the Wings » Maybe I Can Wake up in Three Years?
My soldier-son, home for a few hours, was helping his younger brother fill out his "request for unit to serve" questionnaire for the army.
-"Don't go there, that is full of rough-necks. And don't even give a “one” there, as NOBODY wants it, and if you give a one, they will gladly stick you there. Instead,...."
This younger son is determined ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » A Frugal Lifestyle: Used is good, but free is best!
When our first child, Bailey, was born Reed told me to be sure and save the outfits she outgrew so that they could be passed on to the next kid to come our way.
Me, being who I was then, replied that I wasn’t about to hand down anything. Why, it wouldn’t be fair to make the next baby wear ...
[Link]Garden of Eagan » Connecting the Rainbow
Here's the new button for Connecting the Rainbow. Please copy it and post on your blogs, and help us help the families.
Grab This!
Be sure to right click on the box below and then select all.
Grab This Button 
Life According to Emma & Joe » Sunday
I put Joe in bed tonight and said that he could read his Dr. Seuss book for a few minutes. When I came back upstairs he had his Beatles CD on was bellowing out, "I'm in love with her and I feel fine." He has just taken his foot off of the applause button at the bottom of his microphone. ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Magic Marker Monday — A New Way To Color…
" 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…
Recycled crayons! By no means an original idea — instructions for recycling your used crayons ...
[Link]Life With My Special Ks » Appliances...
Keeghan: I need my cup... my blue cars cup.
Me: Where is it buddy?
Keeghan: It's in the washing machine...
Me: Umm... you mean the dishwasher?!
Keeghan: Yeah... the dishwasher.
LOL! 
MY COOL FAMILY » Off Track Isn't really off Track
I have heard a lot of horror stories about tonsillectomies. Enough that I really wasn't convinced that I wanted to have hers out. Here we are at day 3.... looks horrible doesn't it..... knock on wood. Our ENT said if you have a child that is disagreeable, ornerie, wets the bed, and snores, pulling the tonsils usually corrects all those ... [Link]
The Keirnan Clan » T-R-O-U-B-L-E
Someone in my house has decided to take matters into her own hands. In the last 24 hours Rachel has twice demonstrated her ability to get things for herself! I love to see her new found independence........but..........I think I am going to have to draw the line!
Stumbo Family Story » You Wanted Pictures
I have not done very well at taking pictures lately because our camera's card is full. I have not taken the time to download pictures in my computer so we can take even more! But here are some pictures. We have now come to refer to the girls as "the sisters."
Stumbo Family Story » Nina's Speech Therapist
Nina's speech is amazing! Every day she surprises us with the things she is able to say. From two word sentences, to common phrases like "it's okay" to full sentences. Yesterday she said, "I want to take a bath." Yes, she said it that clear and with perfect grammatical structure. Those speech bursts are rare, but they are happening!
We do ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » New Button!
Here is the blog button for the Connecting The Rainbow project. Our focus right now is to provide the needed resources and materials to the families in Bulgaria. We hope to take SIX suitcases full of supplies to Bulgaria when we travel. (hopefully the end of March!) This project will expand to provide resources and support for families in Ukraine, ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » Spread The Word To End The Word
The Special Olympics and Best Buddies International are gearing up for the annual Spread The Word To End The Word Campaign.
This 60-sec video clip shows just how prevalent the R-word is in mainstream media...take a look at this collection of TV shows and movie clips:
and then there is this clip from Rob Johnson of CBS News. I loved what he ... [Link]
The Keirnan Clan » My Own Money
Leah and Allison have been working really hard lately to earn allowance. A week ago Friday, they came running into the house to ask for money to buy something from the ice cream truck. I told them if they wanted to buy something, they needed to use their own money. Leah was okay with this and quickly grabbed her money ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Super Bowl!
SO, it's almost game time, are you going to a party? Making food? If so, what will you be eating?? Will you watch the game? Do you look forward to the million dollar commercials? Do you bother with the half time show? Or is that time to chow down before the second half of the game? And then there's the all ... [Link]
Days with Dylan » My Little Swiffer Sweeper
Now...to figure out how to attach a wet jet to him so that he can clean the floors properly... : ) 
Elliott's Nest » Oh my goodness...
I was making a video of Liam when I turned around and witnessed the other two getting into trouble. The camera was already running...What am I going to do with those boys??
The Bates Motel » Scenes from the Blizzard of 2010
32.4". Unbelievable. The initial weather reports prior to a flake even hitting the ground on Friday had everyone scrambling to the supermarkets for toilet paper, bread, milk and beer based on an estimated accumulation of 10-20". After I returned home from work early on Friday to beat the slippery commute, my intrepid husband decided to drive over to the local ... [Link]
Prince Vince Meets the World » More of those Boys
Bookie also got pink eye. He has it pretty bad too. At least that is a 100% success rate in the family with that bacteria.
Vince has obviously been paying attention to what has been done to try to ease the itch and reduce the swelling.
One innocent boy(Edgar) and one innocent looking boy (Vince)
First a party ...
Beneath the Wings » A Band-Aid Story
Ricki loves to apply band-aids to any minor scratch that she might have. Sometimes the “sore” is so miniscule that I can not even see it. Or it may be a type of closed-skin hurt that does not need a dressing at all. But in general, Ricki is adamant about applying the treatment, and that is that. Well, almost.
Afterwards, ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Just in case you missed it...
the first time... our show is airing again tomorrow! I know, I know, it's the Super Bowl... and that's WAY more important! Thank goodness for DVRs! haha Of course, I personally only watch for the commercials! :)
SO set your DVRs for one of the following times!
What: Truth Be Told: I Have A Child With Special Needs
When: Sunday, February 7, 2010 ... [Link]
'til my head falls off » geaux saints!
Happy Superbowl, everybody! 
Grace Between the Lines » Got a Few Minutes...?
Want to read something so touching? A blog friend, Tara Marie, found this beautiful "birth story" and shared the link. It is l-o-n-g, but it is well worth the read when you have a few minutes. You will be touched!
(Click here:) Welcome to the World, Nella Cordelia! 
Life According to Emma & Joe » Calvin and Emma
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]
The Keirnan Clan » My Six Year Old Teenager
One day this week, I went into Rachel's room to see if she was ready to come eat breakfast. She was sitting in her floor listening to her CD player and reading a book. I sat down to look at her book with her, when she proceeded to point and tell me "Door!" I then asked her did she want ... [Link]
The Flege Farm » big girl!
In 9 days my baby girl is going to be 4 years old!! Its so hard to believe. Looking at her size, you would think she is maybe two years old. She is really growing up though. We have now graduated out of the high chair/booster seat and now sit on a stool up to the table like a big ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Dollar Days & Sew Much Comfort
My friend Shelley recently told me about a great project going on in the blogger community involving two amazing organizations. It gave us a way to help give back and have some fun with a wonderful group of kids at the same time!
There is an organization called Sew Much Comfort which provides adaptive clothing at no cost to support the ... [Link]
Prince Vince Meets the World » The Boys
Thankfully Bs trip to Korea was cancelled in the last minute. I will forever be thankful, as after being home for TWO weeks tying to cure pink eye there has been a little too much, shall we call it, quality time. Next week Edgar and I are flying to Norway for an international Early Intervention conference, where I will represent the parents ...
[Link]Banana Migraine » Hello? Anyone Still Here?
It is really hard to get back into the whole blogging thing after taking what turns into an extended break! Thank you to all of you who emailed or commented to check in. Feeling the love.
I think that a Delphine update is long overdue, and I have one, because we just made a visit to the DS clinic a couple ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » OxiClean and Stains
A couple years ago I blogged about my frustration with stains on Kayla's clothing. I received a lot of great advice and have been doing better with getting hers (and now Lucas's) clothing stain-free.
However...they still have shirts that have stains that just elude me.
The main problem is when something clear, like juice, is spilled on their shirts and then it ... [Link]
Beneath the Wings » SOOC Saturday-Apples
Straight Out Of (the) Camera Saturday (motzai shabbas, saturday night for me) is posted weekly at Melody's Slurping Life. Go check it out. Her pictures are usually stunning.
Hope you all have a good week!
[image: apples and pears close up, with part of a chair visable in the background.] 
Elliott's Nest » Weekly Update
It is 8:15 on Saturday morning and Liam and I are the only ones awake! How crazy is that! I was just sitting on the living room floor with the laptop and Liam crawled (army style) across the floor to get to it. I guess he felt very motivated by this shiny computer.
We have so much snow outside! It is ... [Link]
ever forward, Maya » sicky woes...
this week was a hard week. first i became ill with what i think is a bad cold (all in the chest), but what the doctor say is the flu. all week i was too weak to do much of anything. unfortunately all of maya's therapies were canceled since everyone is worried about getting sick. (who can blame them?!) being ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » A little blip in the day
So this morning started out like any other morning. I got Angela up a little early so we could pick up Tyler at work. (22 miles away, he doesn't have a car.) I was going to drop Tyler off at home, then Angela at school since it was 15 minutes earlier than they're expecting her. (she starts school 90 minutes ... [Link]
Mom-Blog: Parenting, life, growth, and sanity » Finding a Space for Me
Ok, so I’m going to admit something: I was a terrible mommy this week.
If I’m going to be gut-wrenchingly truthful, I was a crummy mommy for most of 2010. Mostly what I remember of the last 5 weeks is lots of insane screaming, and melting into the floor in a puddle of tears.
And, oh yea, the pity parties. I ...
[Link]* Cornish Adoption Journey * » So hard to believe
that it was 2 years ago today, February 4th, that we first saw their faces, first touched their fingers, first said their names, first loved them. Today was the day that Emma and Micah- Daria and Daniil- entered our lives forever!
http://cornishadoptionjourney.blogspot.com/2008/02/emma-hope-and-micah-daniel.html
Emma is in Yellow, Daniel in Blue
... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » The Purity Ball
Right now Frank and Kassidy are at the Father/Daughter Purity Ball sponsored by The Hope Pregnancy Center here in Clarksville. The Center helps many young and scared women EVERY year; but by sponsoring events like the Father/Daughter Ball and the Mother/Daughter Tea we had last Fall, they are praying that the girls of Clarksville today will never need to walk ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » National Children's Dental Health Month
Feb kicks off National Children's Dental Health Month. To encourage parents to be actively involved in their children's dental health care the National Children's Oral Health Foundation has a month newsletter - Toothfairy News - that is filled with NCOHF news, oral health tips, and fun family events taking place across the country. (Include my blog name in the notes ... [Link]
* Cornish Adoption Journey * » A few quick pics!
Just the little ones from this morning…
[Link]
Not That You Asked » On Having the Last Word
The saga continues with the piano teacher, or it would, if I'd have let myself call him back or send him a rebuttal note in accordance with my first and entirely wrong inclination.
I called him the next morning after he made the baby Jesus cry by yelling and cursing at a child in God's holy sanctuary. Thank goodness I got ... [Link]
Stumbo Family Story » Life is a Story
As we left the Mayo clinic parking lot three days ago, we saw an older couple heading towards the elevators. The woman followed her husband on a motorized chair while he searched for the best "path" for her to take.
"I wonder what their story is" Andy said, "How did she end up in that chair? Was it hard for her ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » In case you were wondering
A heart rate of 280, sustained more than 30 minutes feels a lot like sprinting while being chased by a hungry lion for 10 miles. Afterward you'll feel like the lion got you. 
EmmaSage » A Must Read........Nella Cordelia
Find a quiet moment, and sit and read this beautiful birth story, of a very precious girl named Nella Cordelia......I promise, it will touch your soul so deeply.
Welcome To Our World Sweet Nella Cordelia 
Sunflower Stories » Eleanor Ruby, 18 Months Old Today
It's so hard to believe our baby girl is already a year and a half old! Her babyhood has gone by so incredibly fast. I am just constantly amazed by all she is doing, it just seems too early for her to be such a big girl.
She is such a talker! She tries to repeat words and adds new words ... [Link]
Ramblings of the Bearded One » Nice Photography
.
Following my blog post at the beginning of the year, 2009 in Photographs, I received a lot of positive feedback, including suggestions I could even make a calendar using some of the images.
The snow pictures and the fog photos in following posts likewise generated a few “oohs” and “aahs” as, for that matter, did the early morning mist-on-the-loch images I ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Melissa and Doug Giveaway!
Parker is just entering into the world of pretend play. He loves to wear his hero cape, drive his little wooden cars, and cook in his kitchen.
Yup. He cooks in his very own kitchen. We start ‘em out young at our house.
So when Melissa and Doug asked if I’d be willing to review their Grocery Store/Lemonade Stand, I ...
[Link]Praying For Parker » And The Voice4u Winner Is……..
Heather! woot!
Winner chosen by random.org
Heather, email me at hods 5 mom (at) aol (dot) com!
[Link]* Cornish Adoption Journey * » So much to say
and NO TIME! :)
- We have a visitor for a few days, a 15 yr old young man since Tuesday. Heading out today or tomorrow. But it has just been a little busier than usual!
- We did our medicals for our homestudy yesterday (and the dr thinks I broke my thumb but said it's probably ok- go back if it still ...
Big Blueberry Eyes » Friday Freebie
Freebies received: Gold Bond Ultimate Moisturizer and Einstein Bagel, Delallo calendar and recipes
- Request a free sample of Arm & Hammer Brilliant Sparkle toothpaste.
- Send a Yogi Well Wish to a friend and they'll receive 2 free Yogi Teas.
- Bring this flyer in to On The Border and receive a free bag of tortilla chips. (on Feb 7th only)
- Get a ... [Link]
Kwisteena's Kwaziness » Happy 11th Birthday Kallie!
Wow, I can't believe your 11!! It seems like just yesterday, we were making plans for you to come home from the hospital! You have brought us such joy, Kallie. Despite all the warnings from doctors about how you would be a burden to our family and despite all the obstacles that are thrown at you, you continue to ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Acceptance
My yellow labrador Callie likes me, but she doesn't love me. She'll cuddle with anyone in the family but me, and it really bothers me.
We think it's because I am the one who puts drops and ointment in her right ear when a recurring infection starts bothering her. My husband, Peter, suggested that she might love me if someone else ...
[Link]Life With My Special Ks » Repost: Why it hurts
This is a repost from March 2008, but I think in light of recent events in the media with White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel using the word retarded and going head to head with Sarah Palin, it deserves being repeated. We're not freaking out for no reason. These are our children. And, as their parents, we will stand up ... [Link]
Mama Monkmee » E's Getting A New Carseat
In getting ready for Will I noticed E's getting bigger and is 5lbs from out growing his current carseat rear facing and only 10lbs left to foreward face in it. So I started the long, long search for the right seat for my chunky 2 year old with Down syndrome, who will not be ready for a booster seat, like ... [Link]
Beneath the Wings » The funny Thing…..
As I wrote on Wednesday, under pressure to write daily, I had found “ I have reached the point that I am finding it harder to say things worth reading”. So, having decided to temporarily (at least) blog less frequently, what happened? All of a sudden, I thought of several good posts.
Possible explanations:
1. -the devil is helping me, so I ... [Link]
Elliott's Nest » ENT
I have been looking forward to Aidan's ENT appointment this afternoon for over a month now. Aidan had his adenoids removed 2 years ago and his sleeping/snoring/apnea issues improved dramatically. Well, all of the old problems are back and I think his adenoids have probably regrown. I can't stand to watch him sleep because it breaks my heart. Hence, I ... [Link]
Yeah, but Houdini didn't have these hips. » Weekly Round-up, In Pictures
I fought the wall, and the wall won:
(Actually, I was throwing laundry down into the basement and . . . misjudged the angle. But that song I just put in your head? You're welcome!)
Big girl bed! Baa included.
And the glasses, once more, with feeling:
(Ellie's feeling is that she'd really rather ... [Link]
Loving Life » My first cake
Here she is:
My first cake creation. My leaning tower of sweetness.There are several things that I want to doin life before passing on-
and making and decorating cakesis one of them.My friend and I signed up for a cake decorating classat Michaels craft store.Let me start by saying~it was a whole lot more involved than I imagined.I felt like I ... [Link]
Three's a Charm » A Birth Story
I stumbled upon a birth story that may quite possibly be the MOST beautiful thing I have ever read. I feel like I was a witness to this birth the way she so accurately and intimately describes it. Maybe it's because her story resonates so deeply with my own story.
Get ready to be completely moved by this.... Nella Cordelia 
Big Blueberry Eyes » She Needs A Family
This precious little girl needs a family. She is 4 1/2 years old and will be sent to an institution; her time is running out.
She had a family wanting to adopt her, a family who loves her and couldn't wait to bring her home, but something fell through with the adoption and she now faces institutionalization.
From Reece's Rainbow:
Girl, Born ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Q&A #136
Oh you didn't! I HATE the name Jean! lol Probably Cause my name is Gayla Jean! lol sounds so country! lol
I lost almost all of Aysha's 1rst year of life in photo's. We had a few printed out on snapfish and a few I had emailed people, but my laptop friend the rest :(
haha I know, It's my middle name ... [Link]
Sunflower Stories » Rolling Down the Sand Dune
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Emergency Preparedness and the Child with Special Needs
One of my biggest worries is how to take care of my medically fragile son with special needs in case of an emergency. It’s taken awhile, but slowly I’ve been able to do a few things to prepare and plan in case of unexpected ...
[Link]Little Wonders » I've tried. Really I have.
I think I was on a roll there for awhile.Posting about everyday,mundane,dare I say,normal stuff.Sharing the little miracles that really equate to some truly large,awesome looking miracles.My girl,knocking out the signs like they were nothing.Building her "vocabulary" daily.This week alone she added "happy","sorry"~ and few others that escape me at the moment,as well as tonight,blowing us away with name ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Emergency Preparedness and the Child with Special Needs.
One of my biggest worries is how to take care of my medically fragile son with special needs in case of an emergency. It’s taken awhile, but slowly I’ve been able to do a few things to prepare and plan in case of ...
[Link]Ralph and the Crew » Snow Days!
Finally! We got some measurable snow here! You never know from one winter to the next if you will see snow or not in this part of the country. I finally had an excuse to drag out the thrift store snow pants for Ralph.
Wait! Let's bundle you up a little bit more.
That's better. Ralph's first ever ... [Link]
Bridget's Light » Take My Hand--Isle of Capri
Isle of Capri
(For Kelle and Nella)
Take my hand
the both of you
There is something
I want you to see
There is a little girl dancing
with her big sister
and her momma and her daddy
on the Isle of Capri
See the light
coming from over there
in the distance?
It is not the sun
There is a family whose love
has opened many hearts
and minds, whose light shines
so others may ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Random Pictures and cute stories...
Here are some random pictures of Kennedy, Keeghan and Kellsey from the last several days! They have been having lots of fun making a HUGE mess in the house while we've been snowed in! haha
The kids finally went back to school today and I think everyone was happy! :) They all came home worn out and smiley! There's only so ... [Link]
EmmaSage » Treasure her......
Since Otto was a little boy, we would stop every morning after we dropped his big sisters off to school at our local coffee shop to visit with the 'Gentlemen' as Otto called the group of older men who meet every morning at the coffee shop at 9am to have coffee and share years of friendship ~of growing up, having ... [Link]
Elliott's Nest » Dance Party...
...preschool style...
If You're Happy and You Know It (you may have to turn your volume up)
And please don't look at my messy kitchen. The kids were making a mess with the toy kitchen, there were grocery bags inside the back door and a pile of coats. 
Finnian's Journey » Finn's 18-month well baby checkup
Finn and I visited our favorite pediatrician this morning. The highlights:
- Finn weighs 19 lbs. 8 oz. He's actually lost a bit of weight over the last couple of weeks because he had the stomach flu and wasn't eating much for a week or so. I can't remember his length, but according to his file, he's grown an inch and a half ...
Mama Monkmee » 29 Weeks Down, 9 Left To Go
9 weeks til my c-section on April 9th. 
The Seal Bark » Beginning the journey of Down syndrome
I love following blogs of families touched by Down syndrome. And every once in a while I find a blog where I am amazed at the ability and gift the writer has with capturing in words and pictures the feelings, emotions and thoughts I had when Morgan was born. I stumbled across one of those blogs today. I wanted to ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » How Dare He?
The following is a reprint from my personal blog from almost two years ago, and I am still struggling to find appropriate dental and orthodontic care for my daughter with special needs. Have any of you run into something similar – medical professionals who feel your child with special needs has less of a need for orthodontic care?
Ashley had a ...
[Link]Stumbo Family Story » Answering Some Questions
1. Will you be updating both blogs anymore, or just the main Home one?Mostly I will update our main Home blog. I will continue to post on the adoption blog as we deal with adoption related issues. When I update the adoption blog, I will have a link on our Home blog so you know to check for it.
2. Does ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Upping Our Color Game
We’re upping our color game.
Life According to Emma & Joe » Which one?
photo #1
photo #2
I just had my professional photo taken again. Wow, I look so much older than the photo taken 6 years ago. Now I have to decide between two almost identical photos. Which to choose? This is exactly the sort of choice that makes me crazy. Like picking shades of wall paint. Any input? Photo #1 or photo ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Regan & Russell
Adrienne is one of the many, many, many friends I have had the privilege to meet through the wonderful world of Down syndrome. Our families have this bond... we're part of this little club. We can be walking through a mall, spot a child with Down syndrome, and strike up a conversation with the family like we have known each ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » Special Exposure Wednesday
Reunited with their daddy - for one day anyway!
The Bates Motel » Wordless Wednesday: Sure Beats Washing Dishes With 'em...
Sunflower Stories » Our Winter Escape to the Bahamas! Part 3
We woke up Monday morning, still sailing rapidly towards Florida. It must of been rather windy, because the ship was very choppy. We met the family for breakfast a saw nothing but a foggy sea. Docking and unloading the ship was a looooooong process. Not that we were in any hurry to get to the airport, as our flight didn't ... [Link]
Sunflower Stories » Our Winter Escape to the Bahamas! Part 2
Unfortunately, I woke up feeling terrible. We were a few hours away from our port in Nassau and I was suffering from motion sickness. Ugh! Doug made trips to the dining room to eat and bring food back for the kids, while I curled up in bed. I took some ibuprofen for my headache and Dramamine for my nausea, but ... [Link]
Sunflower Stories » Our Winter Escape to the Bahamas! Part 1
Warning! Long and detailed for our family record keeping purposes!
Oh.my.word! What an experience! This short family vacation was so eventful that we need a vacation at home to recover from it. It was an incredibly exhausting trip, but worth the amazing experience of exploring new things with our kids. The purpose of the trip was to spend time reconnecting with ... [Link]
Three's a Charm » Turning Two
How is it that my baby boy is 2 today?
What an amazing two years it has been. I love this little boy so much it hurts.
Happy Birthday Joaquin! We adore you. 
Prince Vince Meets the World » WOW!
Seriously, just when we were bored out of our minds, the mail man rang the door bell and delivered a package. My friend and former partner in crime colleague Chart sent us some awesome stuff! THANK YOU.
Mac & Cheese for lunch today!
Tools for Vince = happy kid.
Hammering with precision
Nice eye huh, we ...
Beneath the Wings » Dear Readers
[image: a steaming cup of tea]
Dear Readers,
Please sit down and join me for a cyber-cup of tea.
Purim is coming, and Passover on its heels a month later. For those who don’t understand the implications of this, it means that these upcoming two months will undoubtedly be hectic ones for me. Orthodox Jewish housewives (like me) clean every ... [Link]
Yeah, but Houdini didn't have these hips. » Writer Mama by Christina Katz
This month for Barrie Summy's Book Review Club I'm discussing Writer Mama: How to Raise a Writing Career Alongside Your Kids by Christina Katz.
My sister sent me this book for my birthday last fall, and I was appropriately grateful. Such a cool-sounding book. And such a thoughtful gift! In fact, it's exactly the kind of book I want to ... [Link]
Beneath the Wings » Making It Kosher….
When I was a child, one of my mom’s best dishes were part of our camping experiences: red kidney beans and ground beef. My mother used to concoct this on a “primus” camping stov. And I loved it.
As an adult I had tried to copy this dish, but had never succeeded. First I blamed the fact that I had ... [Link]
Not That You Asked » He Said What?
Chloe takes piano lessons from this cranky old guy who apparently is about the only guy in town who teaches piano anymore. Six years ago when we moved here, we asked around about it and his name was the only one that ever came up.
He's really, really talented. He's on staff at a church in town as their music director/pipe ... [Link]
Stumbo Family Story » Nina gets to see lots of Doctors
The last 2 days we have spent hours in Mayo Clinic as doctors look at our daughter and try to discover the surprises of a little girl who's medical record was a single piece of paper with virtually no information. The last 3 1/2 years are a medical mystery that we will try to uncover.
Our first appointment was with a ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Special Exposure Wednesday.
IVIG day and port day.
She looks tiny in that huge infusion chair.
Always courageous though - they had to reaccess her four times yesterday, before the silly thing would flush and she didn't even cry.
I think if it were me, I would be howling.
Got something to share?
Why don't you join in this Special Exposure Wednesday. ...
Life With My Special Ks » The Kids Pictures :)
Here are the kids individual pictures done by Jamie Wright. It was COLD and Kellsey was not happy... as you'll see when you scroll down! LOL Oh well, we all have pictures of our babies crying or grumpy at some point, right? I guess she's just making up for lost time!! ;) Enjoy!!
Elliott's Nest » a driving lesson
How do you explain the rules of the road to a 3 year old? From the backseat I hear, "Mommy, why did you just drive, the light was red?" How do I explain that sometimes, if you're turning right and there are no cars coming, it's okay to turn on red?"
"Mommy, why did you stop, that light is green?"
"Well, Brendan, ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » Neosporin 3-Day Challenge
Kayla gets such dry, cracked lips during the winter - and it doesn't help that she constantly licks them! She just makes it worse. I put Chapstick on her lips in the morning and just hope for the best.
So when Mom Central was looking for bloggers to participate in Neosporin's 3-Day Challenge I signed up hoping this would help repair ... [Link]
The Flege Farm » Take it Tuesday: Small Wonders
This weeks TAKE IT TUESDAY is SMALL WONDERS. Of course, the first thing that comes to my mind is my own small wonder... She may be small (25 lbs, 33 inches and will be 4 in 2 weeks) But she is FULL of wonder. Thats one thing I love so much about my sweet small wonder..... her wonder never seems ... [Link]
Finnian's Journey » Please help find a family for this little girl
Lera (4)
Girl, Born August 7, 2005
Russia
I LOST MY FAMILY!!
Lera is a gorgeous little girl with blonde hair and blue eyes. She is 4 years old. She is quite high functioning, and doing very well. She has flat feet and a systolic heart murmur, but no major heart conditions. She is able to walk and ...
[Link]The Bates Motel » The Creative Art
Ansel Adams once said, “Photography is more than a medium for factual communication of ideas. It is a creative art.” How right he was, especially with the dawn of the new medium of digital photography, although one could say he was wrong about the medium for factual communication now that image manipulation has become so simple and seamless.
I have always ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » A Call for Help!
Remember Lera??? WELL due to circumstances beyond their control, Lera is now available for adoption again. AND We need to find her a family QUICKLY! She was on a time crunch before and is even more so now! Are YOU one of the MANY families who have fallen in love with this precious girl? If so, NOW is the time! ... [Link]
Kwisteena's Kwaziness » In Memory of Uncle Frank
This past weekend, we spent time with family and some friends remembering Uncle Frank. What a beautiful weekend. What touched me the most was the power of his testimony on people, the power his smile had on people and how through everything he went through this past year and a half battling the cancer beast, he never asked, "Why me?". ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » It’s (S)not a Problem.
Moms of kids with trachs know that along with those pieces of plastic tubing and velco ties comes a lot of……er……..s~
Hey. Let’s face it. There really isn’t a pretty word that describes the gelled waste that is made (in copious amounts) when a trached kid has a sinus infection.
And if I may share, just for a moment, we ...
[Link]Gabi's World » Where Do I Start?
It's been awhile yet again, but we took time out for enjoying my parents visiting for 3 weeks during the holidays. While Nana was here, we did a lot of shopping and redecorating. Jeremy got a new (and much needed) bed and linens.
We surprised him Christmas morning by texting him the above picture since he was in Connecticut visiting ... [Link]
Three Weddings » What Comes Naturally?
Last Sunday Peanut started attending music therapy again. I had put her in this class when she was younger, but for many reason’s decided to take a break. This class was put together by one of the mom’s in our area who has a daughter with Down syndrome. Her daughter is a year older than Peanut. All the children in the ...
[Link]Not That You Asked » Update from Infirmary on the Tundra
The boys have had Fifth Disease, which isn't a big deal, but it lasts longer than you want it to and makes for crankiness and quarantine. In the meantime, I think I may have strep throat again for the second time this winter. I can't know for sure without going in for a strep test, but judging by the fever ... [Link]
Little Wonders » And In An Instant ....
I had such other plans for this post.Lots to catch you up on but now,now it all pales in comparison to this.This heaviness that is weighing my heart down tonight.This heaviness that literally,in some moments,is taking my breath away.This heaviness,that I have felt far too many times over the course of this last year,is enough tonight to make me want ... [Link]
Yeah, but Houdini didn't have these hips. » Torture
Maziar Bahari was born in Iran, went to college in Canada, and holds joint Canadian and English citizenship. He is married to Paola Gourley, an Italian-English attorney (solicitor). They live in London and their first child, Marianna, was born in late October.
Bahari is a journalist (Newsweek) and filmmaker (BBC). But these jobs didn't get him in trouble. His crime ... [Link]
Beneath the Wings » Mazel Tov! (??)
Ricki announced to me that “Gilli” is engaged.
“Gilli” is Ricki’s imaginary friend.
I gathered that some of the siblings of some of her classmates are getting married soon, so she decided, as “Gilli’s Mom” to join in the fun.
I keep reminding her that Gilli is not real, but she doesn’t like hearing that…… 
2 Pirates and a Princess » Personality Differences
For several years, whenever Sam had trouble falling asleep, I could walk him through a "visualization", describing the house and grounds of the villa we rented in Italy when he was 5. He could totally immerse himself in the memory of that lovely place. Sometimes, I would describe some other place, but he never had any problem just relaxing into ... [Link]
Elliott's Nest » a lesson in punctuation
How do you teach a 4 year old (with Down syndrome) about punctuation? When I made the recording of Aidan (see here) reading "My Cats" he thought the exclamation point at the end of the last sentence was an "L" (and pronounced "me!" as "mel"). Today he was reading the Eric Carle book "This is Not My Cat" and ... [Link]
Grace Between the Lines » BAHA
You might be dreaming up images of white sandy beaches when you read that word (OK, so the place in California might be spelled "Baja", but the sound is the same...) That once unknown-to-us word (or, more accurately, acronym) has become the centre of much research in our house.
The story begins last April, when Steve came down with a bad ... [Link]
Snippets » Sunrise Peace
Sunrise Peace, originally uploaded by Rynonut Mom.
Journaling reads: One of the best parts of the Whale Watch boat ride was the sheer beauty of the sunrise. Moments of peace in the chaos of a trip with 23 excited, non-sleeping pre-teens...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Credits: All items including template (altered) from "Port au Prince" digital February mega kit from Songbrid Avenue, benefiting Doctors Without ...
Snippets » family love
.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } 
family love, originally uploaded by Rynonut Mom.
Credits: All items including template (altered) from "Port Au Prince" digital February mega kit from Songbrid Avenue, benefiting Doctors Without Borders. Over 56 designers came together to create this colorful digital ...
[Link]MY COOL FAMILY » No title
This is from my friend Jen's blog,
USING ONLY ONE WORD
Not as easy as you might think! Now forward, change the answers to suit you and pass it on. It's really hard to only use one word answers. Be sure to send back to the person you received it from!
Where is your cell phone? Computer
Significant other? commuting
Your hair? brown
Your mother? employed ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » LOVE this video!
Here is Jamie Fox, and his sister Diondra Dixon on the red carpet. Did you know Diondra has Down syndrome? Diondra is a HOOT in this video!!!! 
Life With My Special Ks » Our Weekend in Philly!
I finally got some pictures uploaded that we took in Philadelphia. We really didn't take all that many... it was too cold to do a lot of the outdoor touristy stuff and we weren't there all that long! Here are some that I do have though! :)
They had a great little play area at the airport, the girls had a ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » The Deployment Is Over!
After traveling for 5 days, being in 5 countries (including the ones he started and ended in), and dealing with delays, Joe is finally back in the states!
He arrived at Baltimore-Washington airport at 0430 on Sunday morning.
Welcome Home!
The darn weather and delays interfered with my plans for meeting him at the airport (not at 0430, but his original arrival time ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » The Sick is Back
It was a rough night.
I woke up to Parker crying. Our night nurse (we actually had one last night) was trying to calm him down, but sometimes a guy just needs his Mom.
He’s sick. The Snot is back. In spades. And to make life even more exciting we’re pretty sure he is aspirating on his very ...
[Link]5 Minutes for Special Needs » And yet more special needs Mommy confessions
• I have moments of absolutely insane worry that include things like, "If terrorists blow up our state, where am I going to get seizure medication?"
• I sneak omega-3 oil into Max's Wheatina and wheat germ into his chocolate pudding and when he looks suspicious I make it like everything is OK.
• I cannot stand it when I say, ...
[Link]Life With My Special Ks » Q&A #135
As there is no way I will read through 100+ comments... has anyone made the Here's my --two-- 75 cents joke?
LOL nope you were the first! haha
So did you ever recover your lost photos?
No... I have about 8 months of pictures that are gone forever :(. Makes me so sad, especially because it includes Keeghan's first birthday and Christmas. ... [Link]
Days with Dylan » It's Strange.
Dylan had his 18 month evaluation last week. It was the first time that everyone from our Early Intervention team was together, in our house, at the same time. So, all sitting around my family room, was our Service Coordinator, Family Counselor, OT, PT and ST. I wish you could have seen the look on Dylan's face as they walked ... [Link]
Finnian's Journey » Therapy
Things are looking up.
There's this gal who recently joined my book club. She lives in my neighborhood and has twin boys who attend the same school my kids attend. I've seen her around the neighborhood here and there for all the years we've lived here, but only started to get to know her when she joined the book club I'm in ... [Link]
Yeah, but Houdini didn't have these hips. » Four Eyes
Stumbo Family Story » Home for a month!
Nina and I have been home for a month, a month! The time has gone by so quickly, in many ways I feel like we just got home (and so does anyone that has stopped by our house and gets to see the piles of laundry or unpacked bags)
Nina is doing fantastic. Her English keeps getting better and better, and ... [Link]
Beneath the Wings » No Luck In the Kitchen
After a month, I am still waiting for the ceramic tiles I ordered for my kitchen to arrive. When I first heard that they were out of stock, but were one the way by ship, I calculated that there was still plenty of time to finish before Passover.
Then the tiles arrived early, but apparently the ship had some illegal ... [Link]
The Seal Bark » Snow Caves
I loved going to Girl's Camp as a teenager. "Rough Camp" was so much fun -- skits, hikes, testimony meetings around the campfire, fun leaders, no bathroom facilities, etc. We definitely knew what it was like to camp without the basic necessities. Oh yeah, it was rough!
Ryan got to go on his very first camp as a Boy Scout with ... [Link]
Dylan Update » Worm of Honor
Yes. We are alive. Just with 4 kids in the house and a hubby that is working some pretty insane hours, it doesn't leave much to guess as to why we haven't posted in a while. But we'll start with this...a bit of food for thought:
Mommy had a epiphany today. She is truly a mom of boys. It hit her ... [Link]
The Seal Bark » Pulse Oximeter Update
My last post got comments and emails from parents interested in purchasing a pulse oximeter so I felt I needed to give this disclaimer--I know most doctors do not like parents having a personal pulse oximeter in their home. They fear parents will not notice the signs of respiratory distress and will only rely on the pulse oximeter results.
I know ... [Link]
2 Pirates and a Princess » Nothing much to say
It's tough to blog when nothing is really going on. Let's see, this week brought more sinus infections (Micah last weekend, then Sam stayed home all 3 days, then me since Wednesday, and Sofia a bit since Thursday).
I get my thumb stitches out tomorrow. And maybe some meds for the sinus infection?
I am still going to the gym!!!! AND I ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Magic Marker Monday — Fun With The Sunday Funnies…
" 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…
In celebration of my kiddos love of the Sunday Funnies (and an inexplicable yet persistent ...
[Link]DownBlogger » Aislynn Turns Two at OneTrueMedia.com
Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com 
Life With My Special Ks » Opportunities to give!
All over the country, stations have been set up by an organization called Soles4Souls where people can drop off new or gently worn shoes to be delivered to the people in Haiti. When our church got wind of this ministry, they were excited to help any way they could and offered to be the Clarksville drop off spot for the ... [Link]
Snippets » P52 : 2010 : Week 4 + Sunday Ramblings
P52 : 2010 : Week 4 + Sunday Ramblings, originally uploaded by Rynonut Mom.
Jan. 24th, 2010
Ryan and I were able to go to San Deigo, CA this weekend with the H.O.P.E. Club from school. It was a very fast paced weekend! LOL! We left Mesa @ 9:30pm on Friday night. No one slept much for the kids (25 + ... [Link]
* Cornish Adoption Journey * » Remember this quote?
I can't advocate for the adoption of children with special needs abroad- specifically those with Down syndrome- and ignore a child in my own back yard that's also living in the "system".
Well, the author has fessed up :) So now I thought I'd direct you over to her blog to learn more about how she is walking out this truth in ... [Link]
Mama Monkmee » All About Alex pt2
Sleeping 
My 1st Mother's Day 
Poor lil guy his face was broke out bad. Turned out he was sensitive to laundry detergent. 
Just hanging out 
In Purple Build A Bear Sunglasses 
Should have known better than give him a controller almost 5 years later and he is very much a video gamer.(just like his daddy) 
I love this one I ... [Link]
Mauzy's Musings » Seger says GO COLTS! Come in and vote for him...
a local TV show and website, Pet Pals, is featuring pets dressed in Indianapolis Colts attire for the Superbowl and Seger is a finalist! This was in 2007 when the Colts went to the Superbowl so Seger is a couple of years older now.
click here to vote for him ! 
Three's a Charm » Chills
This website I came across today just gave me the chills as I read his foreward. What an amazing project and an amazing man.
Check it out.... I'm Down With You 
Life With My Special Ks » Snow!!!
I admit it, I was a skeptic. The news people said all week that the snow was coming, and I didn't believe them. They predicted 8-12 inches, and I laughed. Literally. On Thursday afternoon they cancelled Friday's school, and we jumped for joy! But still, there was not a drop of snow in sight and I said, "We'll see...".
Because you ... [Link]
Three Weddings » Out of the Fog
You’ve most likely seen those commercials for clinical depression. Usually the person suffering from depression (or more likely an actor) describes the symptoms. I don’t, by any means suffer from depression, but Friday night and Saturday morning I feel I had a pretty good idea what they were talking about. All I wanted to do was lay on the couch or ...
[Link]ever forward, Maya » moms and photographer giveaway....
here's a chance to win a free membership at chickinmoms, thanks bethany @ life with bubba, chicky and nika, for the opportunity and the info on the site...it seems like a wonderful community to join.
Snippets » ClickinMoms Giveaway
I've been tempted to get a membership to ClickinMoms for awhile now, but haven't taken the leap yet. I was shown a contest this morning to win a free year to there (Thanks Jo Ann!)! Also cool for Bethany who's holding the contest has a darling with DS also, so now I have a new blog to read!
So click here ... [Link]
Beneath the Wings » My Smart Daughter
Sometimes Ricki does some pretty smart things. And sometimes I wonder HOW she did something….
Ricki is sick. She’s had a cough, which has gradually gotten worse over the week, and finally I kept her home from school on Friday. Initially I had told her that this vacation from studies was for only one day, but last night as her ... [Link]
* Cornish Adoption Journey * » Heart to heart
Here's a little heart talk for anyone wanting reference :)
I answer heart questions on the RR group pretty frequently and someone tonight asked if I had something written up describing the different heart conditions. Nope... I rewrite it every time!
So here's a little "from a mom's view" (not a doctor!) explanation of the different heart defects that I'm most familiar ... [Link]
Elliott's Nest » Brotherly Love
Wintertree Design : Liita Forsyth » Blog » Upcoming Classes
Here are some classes that I’ll be teaching next month:
* Cornish Adoption Journey * » A little something different
Here you go... your opportunity to ask :)
I'm inviting my husband... and my son... to answer questions!
If you have questions you'd like to ask of either of them, now's your chance! I often get asked what they like/dislike/ how I talked my husband into adopting (I didn't! LOL). And so here's a chance for you to ask them, and I've ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » NOT Under construction....
Welcome to our new and improved blog layout!!!! Thank you to my wonderful blog guru for getting it going!!! And I know everyone is happy to FINALLY see Kellsey up in the header!!! Photos are courtesy of Jamie Wright Photography. I will get the kids' individual pics posted soon!
Here is our family picture!
This blog is currently under construction... if ... [Link]
Three Weddings » In a Funk
Yesterday hubby had to go out of town for a weekend meeting. This isn’t uncommon and although I do not relish being a single mom for a few days, it doesn’t normally bug me much. But not this time.
Last night I came home from work and wanted to just curl up on the couch and speed time along till bedtime. ...
[Link]Life With My Special Ks » Happy Birthday Laynee!!
Today is beautiful Princess Laynee's 3rd birthday... one that she is celebrating in Heaven. We are sure that she is having the grandest party of all. Still it's hard for those left behind... it's hard for a mommy who wants to throw you a princess party and buy you tons of presents... it's hard for the rest of us who ... [Link]
Ramblings of the Bearded One » The Moon, Mars and Torchlight Ghosts
.
I got an email on Friday from my stepdaughter pointing me to a news item about Mars being very close to the Moon in the sky that evening. So after dinner I took the telescope, the camera and the kids up to the back of the garden to see what we could see.
Sure enough Mars was clearly visible to the ... [Link]
The Wonderful World Of Jesse » First time playing in the snow!
Jesse had a blast. He didn't move around much, but sure did bend down to play with it. He is definitely a true Michigander at heart like his parents.
Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com 
Mama Monkmee » All About Alex! Pt1
In reading blogs this morning Renee's gave me an idea. With the 5th birthday of my 1st born coming up on April 19th (along with the birth of my 3rd baby caoming up on April 9th) I wanted to do some post on Alex. I've found most of my pictures and blogs are about Eian. Alex tends to avoid the ... [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]
Mom-Blog: Parenting, life, growth, and sanity » Focus, Dude…
Who knew that the words of advice I need right now come from the mouth of Crush the Turtle?
The fact is, I got carried away with the new year. I’m a bit stressed out: the kids are running me ragged, I submitted my novel for a contest and critique, & then promptly realize that right now it SUCKS, told a ...
[Link]Big Blueberry Eyes » The Reunion That Wasn't
I should be welcoming Joe back "home" right about now. And by "home" I just mean to the states; because although he's coming back, he's not coming back here. He needs to report back to Holloman, and has to go directly there.
He was supposed to be landing at an airport that just so happens to be near us; (we got ... [Link]
Elliott's Nest » Mommy Time
It has been a really long week where I don't think I have even had 10 minutes to myself. After dinner on Friday night I told Scotte that I needed some time alone. I poured a glass of wine, grabbed my book, and went to soak in the tub. Heaven! Of course, I couldn't be alone for long, could I? ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » The Lantern
Copy and paste this code to your HTML/Java Script:
The Military community is such a special thing... we have a bond like no other. Living in a Military town, I have experienced this time and time again. Recently, I was asked to be a part of something very special in Clarksville and I jumped at the chance. A new ministry ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Helping Your Child Communicate: Voice4u
Parents of children with special needs know the heartache and frustration that often accompanies trying to provide their child with the services and care needed for their child to lead a healthy and productive life.
Yumi Kubo is one example.
Yumi Kubo, is the mother of a 15-year-old autistic son, and the founder and CEO of Spectrum Vision. She has created ...
[Link]Grace Between the Lines » New to Me Pictures
Annette has many people who knew and loved her. She was very happy to be a part of an on-line community of equally dedicated parents to children with Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome). She loved to "chat" with them, so much so that she and Tom occasionally traveled to meet some of them IRL (in real life).
I am fortunate ... [Link]
The Seal Bark » Every Breath You Take
I LOVE my pulse oximeter! I'm a big believer that every household with children should own one. It's more valuable than any thermometer. It's what helps me know if Morgan or Ryan are too sick to wait to go to the doctor's and need to go to the ER . Morgan got a fever last week and wasn't acting like ... [Link]
The Keirnan Clan » Thank Goodness It is Friday!
It has been a busy week here. Saturday and Sunday Allison had to work on a science report and diorama. When Allison has to work on something, I have to give her my full attention. She is not one to work well on her own. She needs constant prodding and encouragement. Either she is totally clueless as to how to ... [Link]
Finnian's Journey » What's this??? . . . continued.
By last night, I was near frantic about these "episodes" of Finn's. And in all honesty, I was kicking myself for putting it out here on my blog, because the comments were scaring the crap out of me. And the fact is, nobody can tell me what's really going on with Finn, all anyone can do is relate their own experiences. ... [Link]
Ralph and the Crew » PLEASE HELP!
Have you met Maxim? If you have read this blog for any length of time then you have! :)
I just think he is sooooo cute! I just can't believe that no one has snapped him up yet. I've done my best to raise money for his adoption grant fund for about a year now. Sometimes I wonder if I am ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » Friday Freebie
Freebie received: Hellmann's Mayonnaise
- Get a free sample of Kerasal Exfoliating Foot Cream.
- Request a free sample of Cream of Wheat.
- Choose from 1 of 3 free samples from Kashi.
- Get a free sample of Avery Label Pads.
[Link]
Praying For Parker » Giveaway: Voice4u is helping your child Communicate
Read all the way through this post to find out how you can WIN a Voice4u application! (woot!)
Parents of children with special needs know the heartache and frustration that often accompanies trying to provide their child with the services and care needed for their child to lead a healthy and productive life.
Yumi Kubo is one example.
... [Link]Praying For Parker » Discount School Supply Winner!
The winner of our Discount School Supply giveaway is:
Number 15 Tami Lewis
Enjoy!
Tami was chosen by random.org
[Link]Matthew Nicholas Vawter » Annual Cardiology Check-Up
Yesterday was Matthew’s annual cardiology check-up. Height: 2′7″ Weight: 23 pounds.
The first thing Dr. Anderson said when he walked in the room was, “How is Miracle Matthew?” I really appreciate that he always remembers, and comments on Matthew’s miraculous healing.
Matthew cooperated very well for the echocardiogram – he just relaxed, sipped on a bottle, and watched the “Baby Einstein” ...
[Link]Prince Vince Meets the World » 3/4
Did I tell you we have pink eye? Bookie is the only one who has been spared. I look like crap, but that is OK. Edgar, so far only has a mild version. Dear Vincent on the other hand – poor kid. His upper eyelid is swollen and now blue. Half his face is red from secondary infection and he is ...
[Link]Life With My Special Ks » Thank you!!
Thank you to everyone who commented on our post to raise money for the children in Haiti!! We had 150 comments which comes out to $37.50 BUT with matching funds by Johnson & Johnson it brings it up to $112.50. That may not seem like a lot in the grand scheme, but every penny helps! It was nice to see ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » A Mouse in the House
Ok, this happened about a year and a half ago, just a day or so after I returned from my Epic Journey. Many of you heard me mention it on the radio this morning. I never did blog about it, because Dean was acting a little funny about me telling people we had a mouse in the house. (actually, we'd ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Autism and police cars in the driveway
I’ll never forget the first time I saw a police car pull into my driveway. Matthew was 13 years old, and had wandered from home to a bike trail down the street. Passersby noticed him cutting a large branch with a small but threatening pruning saw and called the police. Luckily, the officer that showed up at the scene was one ...
[Link]Elliott's Nest » Vivienne Finds a Home
Every year at Christmas time, Reece's Rainbow holds their fundraising drive to help fund the adoption of beautiful children with Down syndrome from abroad who need to find homes. In many places in this world babies with Down syndrome are still placed in orphanages at birth, which just breaks my heart. At the age of 5 these children are transferred ... [Link]
Mama Monkmee » Eian Signing Baby *Video*
Beneath the Wings » He Has No Idea (I Think)
My soldier-son is home from the army for the weekend. As always, it is comforting to have him near. Right now he is in his brother’s room on the roof, away from the hustle and bustle of erev shabbas and erev Tu B’Svat preparations. (The preparations before the Sabbath and the mini-holiday of Tu B’Svat.) He very reluctantly told me that ... [Link]
Little Wonders » If you are sick of hearing me talk about Zoey's signing... ignore this.If not,quick update.
So ... with this explosion of Zoey's signing,it is really time to step it up and begin teaching her to put two signs or two words,how ever you want to look at it, together.Just the same as a verbal child would do as their speech is developing.I sign with Zoey pretty much with every sentence that I speak to ... [Link]
ever forward, Maya » my inspiration this week...
i stumbled on this site via a fellow blogger, thanks, Lianna at my life with gabriel...i am totally inspired by Conny Wenk's work. it is just gorgeous. the photography is absolutely stunning and well i really do love her special subject matter. she has a calendar out and i have all intention of buying it. what i like about the ... [Link]
Yeah, but Houdini didn't have these hips. » Ada's Third Birthday
My model:
The cake:
The cake before I edited to make it look a little less unfriendly:
The birthday girls (cousins):
If you sent Ada a birthday present, she probably hasn't opened it yet; we're spacing them out. And here's why.
"You're going to hate me after this weekend," my mom told me.
"Why?"
"You'll ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Old pictures...
I've been going through old pictures today... these were some of my favorites of Kennedy... I took these of her in our front yard Fall 2005. She was about 17 months old. SO cute!
What is this??
I think I like it!
I can hold it...
This is amazing!
I need to think about this...
Let me show you my ... [Link]
Finnian's Journey » What's this???
Okay, I do NOT want to go borrowing trouble. But I've noticed something new and strange about Finn recently. His eyes will kind of roll back, almost like he's looking at the ceiling, but without moving his head, and he seems a little . . . vacant. I've only noticed it maybe three or four times over the last few days, ... [Link]
Days with Dylan » Ordinary Moment
Tonight, as I watched Cassidy and Dylan on the couch together, I felt my heart catch and I paused...
There they were. Sitting together, drinking their milk, and reading a book.
It was such an ordinary moment.
But yet felt wonderfully significant to me. 
Elliott's Nest » Nope
Aidan has replaced his favorite reply of "no" with "nope." At first I ignored it. My first thought was, where the heck did he learn that? I don't know anyone who says "nope."
Today, I was listening to myself talk. I said "nope" at least 25 times. Drats. He learned it from me. I guess he listens to me after all. ... [Link]
