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.
We are not accepting additional blogs for our sampler at this time.
Cornish Adoption Journey » My Choice
If I could choose today to live my life any way I wanted to, without any concerns for what others think, without any fear of financial burdens, and without any past or future concerns to bog me down, this is what I would do…
I’d give every day from the time I wake until the time I sleep to serving God ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Fireworks Craft and Fine Motor Activity
Is it hot where you live? We are hitting 95 today, which for me translates into melting. Parker doesn’t do well in the heat, so on days like today we have to get him outside early. On today’s agenda? A Fireworks craft and fine motor activity!
I’m not sure what these balls are called. Prickly balls? Koosh balls? I ...
[Link]The Bates Motel » Lessons in Packing
Every time I go on vacation to the beach, I invariably learn something new about efficient packing. For example...
*Do NOT bring make-up or hair supplies. The humidity makes both completely irrelevant and embarrassingly messy (hint: products drip). You'll learn to love the new (make-up-and-hair-do-free) you eventually...
*Don't bother bringing a book. Some former vacationer at your location will have likely left ... [Link]
Mom-Blog » The Miracle Project: Interview with Elaine Hall, Helping Kids with #Autism #ad
This is one of a series of posts sponsored by CVS Caremark All Kids Can, a commitment to making life better for children with disabilities.
Kids with autism and neurotypical kids perform together at the Miracle Project.
Miracle Project Founder Elaine Hall
I’m excited to introduce you to The Miracle Project, an inclusive program that helps children and teens ...
[Link]Prince Vince Meets the World » Göteborgsvarvet 2013
A week after Vincents birthday I ran Göteborgsvarvet for the second year in a row. This was actually my first race I have done twice. The race is the world’s largest half marathon with over 60,000 starters.
Last year it was cloudy and 8c. This year it was clear blue skies, sunny and hot. I started around 2 pm and by ...
These Broken Vases | Finding Beauty in Unexpected Places » When Kids With Special Needs Wander (Elope) {a guest post by Staci Conrad}
Last week I wrote about conducting a stakeout outside my daughter's school because I was terrified of her bolting during recces. If you didn't get to read that post, please do so, I did my best attempt at being funny in light of a real concern we have for our little eloper.
My friend Staci responded by sending me ... [Link]
MY COOL FAMILY » Little Squeak
I really didn't intend for 3 months to pass. But it happened. Life happens in months now, not weeks. Not days, not hrs or even minutes. Our new little one is growing faster than I am happy with. She's added a new level of hectic. I'm not sure if it is her, or the fact that it ... [Link]
Ralph and the Crew » Summer is finally here!
Summer is in full swing here and chaos reigns, as much as it does in any other season!
Theo and Max are in ESY, which stands for extended school year. I guess I'm old because where I come from, we used to call it "summer school." Now-a-days everything is an alphabet soup arrangement: IEP, FSP, OT, PT, ASAP!! Max is SO ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » Selective Memory
It has been 7 years since we heard the news.
I had allowed myself to forget some of the details so when things started changing a couple months ago, although I was concerned, I wasn't feeling that sickening panic.
Until this morning.
Today a friend of mine and I were discussing this blog. He has been reading here for five years. I mentioned ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » Auditioning For Snow White
When I've taken Kayla to see plays or ballets she is mesmerized by what is happening on the stage. At the end of the performances she'll say it's her turn to be on stage. She enjoyed being on stage for the ballet recital and the Global Down Syndrome Foundation's Fashion Show.
So when I saw the Missoula's Children's Theater was on ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » To Find A Cure
When I was fresh out of high school, I was working in a center-based respite care program. Think daycare, but all the kids had significant disabilities. This was before the ADA went into affect and segregation of those with differences was allowed.
One of the children who came to our care facility several times per week was a boy I'll call ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Yard Sale Fundraiser
On Sunday, after everyone was full of Father’s Day dinner, I gathered my family around and asked them the question. I was nervous. I know how much work what I was about to ask of them was going to be. I also know that Parker’s family is willing to do pretty much anything for this Bravest of Heroes of ours.
... [Link]2 Pirates and a Princess » Celebrations
It's been a long stretch to get here, but we're almost done.
Yesterday we had my parents' 50th Wedding Anniversary Party. Their actual anniversary was in December, but they wanted the party when the weather was nice. And we lucked out, since it was monsooning all week, but gorgeous yesterday.
Some pics:
Sofia getting cozy with the Blue Corn Chips
The "Triplets", ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Magic Marker Monday — Summer Playhouse…
“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…
‘Tis the season for playhouses constructed from cardboard, magic markers and imaginations ...
[Link]Life According to Emma & Joe » Father's Day
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Praying For Parker » Happy Father’s Day! Parker’s Dad Rocks!
Reed hates to have pictures posted of him. But how can Parker wish his Dad a Happy Father’s Day and tell the world how much he rocks without posting a few pictures of his Dad?
Noticed how I wrote Parker posting pictures of his Dad. heh. Hopefully that will help me from being strangled when Reed sees this.
Reed spend all ...
[Link]Prince Vince Meets the World » 7
Well. It has been a while. I will try my best to be better at posting and will try to catch up.
With that said, little Prince Vince turned SEVEN in May! 
He loves pirates, so we had a pirate party. There is a place, actually a boat, called Maritiman in Gothenburg harbor, and they do birthday parties for kids. ...
[Link]- Painting With Shadows - » A Special Father's Day
While I was hoping all the attention would be on me today for Father’s Day, I have to take a back seat to Rogan as it’s also his birthday. And not just any birthday – today he turns 18. In the UK, that’s the big one. Now he can vote, legally drink in pubs and is fully classed as an ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » This Man
Nearly 10 years ago I had an online conversation with this guy named Dean. We were on the popular dating site, Match.com. We chatted for a bit but he's not much of a typist so he asked if he could call me instead.
I put a lot of weight on those first phone calls. If I had didn't like their voice ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » Blast from the Past
I was looking for some pictures tonight, and ran across this video of Axel, just a couple weeks after he came home. Good LORD was he the most adorable little boy! Now he's nearly a teenager.
So here's Axel and Angela, 2 1/2 years ago.
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Garden of Eagan » Don't
Don't lick your hand.Don't lick the car.Don't lick your hand.
Don't lick the tree.Don't lick your hand.Don't like the sidewalk.Don't lick your hand.Don't lick the window.Don't lick your hand.Don't lick your feet.Don't lick your hand.Don't lick the refrigerator.Don't lick your hand.Don't lick the dog.Don't lick your hand.Don't lick the chair leg.Don't lick your hand.Don't lick the bedpost.Don't lick your hand.Don't lick ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Homemade Cleaner Recipe
I had a bit of a moment of panic when I went to grab a few pictures of the ingredients of today’s homemade cleaner recipe and my camera wouldn’t work. Could you hear me hyperventilating from where you are? I wanted to cry and scream at the world. Then it dawned on me. Uh…..when was the last time I charged this ...
[Link]Praying For Parker » When Panic Attacks
We had just been talking about how well he had been doing. Every morning we were waking up to clear sounding lungs after a night of beautiful oxygen and heart rate sats.
We’d changed up Parker’s morning routine, having him outside in the early morning before it got hot, and then doing his lessons in the early afternoon. Talk about the ...
[Link]Mom-Blog » Review: RoomMates Wall Decals
Disclosure: I received a sample of RoomMates Wall Decals for review. All opinions are my own.
I have been dying for the LONGEST time to get wall decals! I was thrilled to get one from RoomMates Wall Decals. They carry all kinds of decals, from sports teams to Disney to Star Wars. This one was very easy to ...
[Link]Garden of Eagan » Hearing Aids
Last year while I was in Serbia for Asher's adoption, Angela lost one of her hearing aids. *Someone*, who shall remain nameless but who was the responsible adult at home with the kids, didn't even notice that one was missing until I got home and pointed it out. AHEM! Anyway, we waited over a year for her to get a ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » Summer: Day 4
Today is Thursday, day four of our summer. It rained the first 2 1/2 days. Here is what I made today.
I love my children. I truly do. They are very busy people and I still love them. Earlier in the week I came up with a schedule for each day. I did it for several reasons. 1) so I ... [Link]
Little Wonders » "It's not who I am underneath, but what I do that defines me." ~Batman (Batman Begins)
So. I couldn't decide what to post about. Not for of lack of material. Always have plenty of that available to me. But just couldn't commit. I eventually opted for the easy route. I needed easy today. This made me smile. I mean watch this video and try and tell me that it didn't make you smile too. Who doesn't ... [Link]
These Broken Vases | Finding Beauty in Unexpected Places » Transitioning to Kindergarten
It feels as if the baby years are officially behind for my rascal. My "baby" will be transitioning into Kindergarten, and already we are celebrating some of the transitions, while trying to hold on a little bit longer in other ways. Yet, can we really hold on?
Preschool years are now behind us. This last year, Nichole had the most ... [Link]
Mom-Blog » Summer Treats for a Good Cause
Disclosure: I received 4 free Rita’s Italian Ice Coupons. All opinions are my own.
This June, why not hop on down to Rita’s Ice for a quick cool off and a good cause? From June 5 to June 18, 625 Rita’s locations are going to ask their patrons to donate $1 for a paper lemon and a good ...
[Link]Mom-Blog » Review: Peppa Pig Plush Toy & “The Muddy Puddles”
Disclosure: I received a sample of Peppa Pig products for review. All thoughts & opinions are my own.
I defy you to resist the cuteness!
“Peppa Pig and the Muddy Puddles” by is the delightful story of a little girl pig, Peppa, who wants to play in a muddy puddle – unfortunately, there’s no mud after the rain storm ...
[Link]Dylan Update » Me at School: 2012-2013
I am playing with my friends at school.
I have the best OT ever. Here I am feeding the dog a bone which helps with my fine-motor skills.
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Dylan Update » Jonah's First Science Fair
Jonah's First Science Fair: Blue Ribbon
This past fall, Jonah took part in his first Science Fair at Parkview Elementary. This spectacular first grader, aka my awesome brother, got a ribbon. His experiment was about the Naked Egg. Did you know that if you put an egg in vinegar, it has a chemical reaction with the shell causing it to disintegrate ... [Link]
Mom-Blog » How to Wash Microfiber
Image courtesy of artur84 / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
You might know that this is a great tool if you live in a gluten-free household, like I do. Do you know how to clean it for long life? Learn how with my article on Home Made Simple:
The post How to Wash Microfiber appeared first on Mom-Blog. ...
[Link]Praying For Parker » On adaptive trikes and intense therapies.
Parker’s AmTryke adaptive trike arrived on Monday. Thrilled beyond belief pretty much describes how we’re feeling over here. Reed hasn’t had time to set it up yet because I’ve spent the last couple of days doing fun things like colonoscopies. Summertime at the Hodson house, always full of exciting adventures. sigh.
Adaptive trikes represent so much more than just ...
[Link]Life According to Emma & Joe » Joe on the 6 o'clock news
Joe's camp was featured on the news last night. Joe is in a couple of shots playing the guitar next to his pal Dominique (in the orange shirt). There is a 10-second ad before the video clip.
New clip [Link]
- Painting With Shadows - » Live at Eden
The must-have accessory for the Eden Festival is wellies. Every year since it began it pours with rain and the entire site becomes a mud pit. This year caught everyone by surprise when they realised they should have left their wellies behind and brought sun cream instead.
Scruffy Buzzards were already booked to play in Rabbie’s Tavern - ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » The girl I used to be.
For Christmas my Mom gave me a beautiful, leather Fossil purse. It was an incredible color; somewhere between magenta and the perfect pink. I like my purses colorful and exciting. Dumb as it sounds it reminded me of the girl I used to be.
I’m not much of a shoe person. Nope. My love has always been along the line of ...
[Link]Mom-Blog » Unending Vigilance; Alex Spourdalakis Tragedy
As I’ve promised some friends, I’d write about the final IEP session which took place last week. As you know, I posted on how to have a good IEP recently, and I’ve been blessed that ours always go well, and despite some unpleasant things going on at the school, I still hold to that: Thus far, all is well.
Dylan Update » Spring 2013
Dylan...being Dylan
Jonah: Mommy Loves This Pic
Our Spring and Summer Dining
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Beneath the Wings » Accosted
This incident happened about 2 weeks ago, but I just hadn't had time to write about it. I was walking along the street in Ramat Gan (a suburb of Tel Aviv), when suddenly I heard someone muttering next to me, which at first I ignored. Suddenly I realized that a man was talking to me. He was yelling "AREN'T YOU ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Deja vu...
Almost one year ago Colorado Springs fell victim to the Waldo Canyon Fire. It's the worst our city had seen in a long, long time. Hundreds of families lost their homes and several timeless landmarks were lost. It was devastating for so many of our friends. Our community rallied and rebuilt quickly, and with help from friends, family and strangers, ... [Link]
Beneath the Wings » The Freedom of Being Thin
I don't remember why I had arrived at the 92 bus stop at the shopping mall. Possibly I had been out "walking", and walking all the way home was a bit to much, or perhaps I had been shopping. But I do remember that I wanted to get home as quickly as possible. And as I approached the bus stop, ... [Link]
Life According to Emma & Joe » Bed time for Emma and Calvin
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Life According to Emma & Joe » Joe at Music Camp
A treat after a long day of music
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Beneath the Wings » Awkward Encounters
I've had a few awkward encounters lately. The first was with a friend I haven't seen in a while- I saw her on the street, and enthusiastically greeted her, but her reaction was a bit lukewarm. Later I realized that she probably didn't recognize me (because of my weight loss), and was too busy racking her brains trying to figure ... [Link]
Mom-Blog » Mamavation Application Post!
Life is crazy right now – it usually is when you’re raising kids with disabilities and special diets and the end of school has come! But through it all, we moms need to maintain a sense of sanity and take care of ourselves to help our kids. Not easy, and as I’ve said many times this year, I’ve failed a ...
Dream Big » Just Another Manic Monday
As I put on my pajamas tonight I realized they were muddy from my early morning rescue.
As I do every morning, I checked my email on my phone before even getting out of bed. It's a well known fact around our house that once anyone sets foot out of their bedroom, Chelsea will pop out of bed like the ... [Link]
2 Pirates and a Princess » Calgon, PLEASE take me away...
Today was just one of those days. One of those days when being single and child-free looks REALLY really good.
It was actually mostly a good enough day. I stayed up too late last night, watching the Tony Awards and then surfing for Dr. Who and Sherlock videos on YouTube. So I was tired. But I didn't have to drive Micah ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » June, July and August
Dear June, July and August,
Dear June,
Each spring I wait anxiously for your arrival. You bring with you warmer weather, sunshine and a much-needed change in our routine when I'm starting to run on fumes. But this year June? This year you arrived with nothing but rain, rain and more rain. You brought an insane schedule I could barely keep up ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Yard Sale Prices
I hit a few yard sales Saturday as I ran a few errands. I wasn’t able to get out until about noon, but often times hitting the yard sales later makes for better deals as people are ready to pack up and just want to get rid of what hasn’t sold. I have to tell you though, I’ve been really surprised ...
[Link]Garden of Eagan » It is Summer!
Friday was the last day of school for Angela. (the other boys were done earlier in the week.) It has been raining here in Minnesota for two weeks now, including this past weekend. Well, Saturday was without drips for a few hours; just enough to squeeze in Dean's family reunion.
I have always been one who dreaded the kids' summer ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » Speaking Up
A couple of weeks ago I was in a situation where someone used the "r-word" in a conversation with me.
I was in a store, checking out, and found myself at the register with a guy who had the word "manager" on his name tag.
I scanned my shopper reward card and as my information came up on his screen he attempted ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Magic Marker Monday — Splat Painting…
“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…
The 7-year-old tells me it’s called a “splat painting”.
He also tells ...
[Link]Ralph and the Crew » I trust he is ready...
It often seems that the really, really important events in life sneak up on me. I'm sorta sentimental, so it's probably for the best. I'd be gushing about it constantly if I had time to let it sink in that
Max starts school tomorrow!
My darling little scarecrow gets on the bus a bit before 8am. At the ... [Link]
Ralph and the Crew » Shame on me...
Shame on me for updating but not including any photos!
Guess who graduated from preschool? Ralph is a sharp kid. Watching him grow is such a treat!
Max is well and happy, but he is not chubbing up as quickly as I would have liked. Maybe he's getting taller or something, but his skinny legs and arms continue to make me ... [Link]
Mom-Blog » Tuckerton Seaport: Great for the Whole Family!
This post is sponsored by Tuckerton Seaport, opinions are my own.
The Jersey Shore is back, and if you’re looking for a great day to spend with the kids, Tuckerton Seaport is great fun! We were invited for a special day to explore the seaport, get a tour, and make a craft on Saturday for the Privateers & Pirates ...
[Link]Life With My Special Ks » Denial - Not Just a River in Egypt
Over the last 9 years several people have told me that I'm "in denial" about various things. When Kennedy was born and we found out she had Down syndrome, after an initial grieving period, I jumped in with both feet into the world of "Down Syndrome Awareness". I chose to look at the glass half full... sometimes even overflowing. Skeptics ... [Link]
Beneath the Wings » Great Video
click HERE to go to video I posted about. (But there is a commercial preceding it)
This is a video about a photographer who likes to show those with special needs in a positive light. [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Remembering Catherine
Today is Catherine Hubbard's 6th birthday... one that she will be celebrating in heaven. I have really enjoyed learning about this fiery little red head who loved animals with a passion. She would spend her days taking care of her yellow lab, Samantha, and making sure that all of the other creatures she met were loved and cared for and ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » Ms Frog Had Baby Snake
What we heard Kayla say the first time:
"Ms Frog had a baby snake."
Process of elimination:
Someone had a baby snake?
Kayla: No... repeats her sentence.
Joe: The frog had a baby snake?
Kayla: No...repeat
Joe: A shake?
Kayla: No...
Me: Oh, Mrs. Vaughn?!
Kayla: Yes!
Lucas: She's saying Mrs. Vaughn had a baby snake.
Kayla: No! Mrs Vaughn had baby snake!
Joe: Snake? Shake?
Kayla: NO! Baby snake!
Me: OH! Ms Vaughn had ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » Dear Department of Homeland Security
Dear Department of Homeland Security
Attn: Passport Authority
It would be very helpful to myself, and I am sure many other citizens of the United States, if your departments would please communicate with one another.
In February 2013 I submitted an application for my son Axel's US passport. We would be traveling to Serbia to complete an adoption, and while there would be ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Brothers
These two are so very close. Two peas, one pod. Parker blows me off without a second thought in order to make his way to Rigel.
It won’t be long until Rigel leaves on his mission to Seattle. I know it is going to be hard for Parker to not have this big brother of ...
[Link]The Seal Bark » Another one bites the dust.
Tomorrow is technically the last day of school. Jack and Ryan decided to stop going a few days ago claiming no one is going anymore and the teachers aren’t even taking roll. I always get anxiety with the end of a school year. Nothing signifies my kids getting older more than the school year ending and knowing they will never ... [Link]
Raising Joey » PPI News: Banks Being Unfair With New PPI Claims Criteria
Chief Ombudsman Natalie Ceeney revealed that she had told the Financial Conduct Authority that banks are unfairly tightening their criteria on the PPI complaints they accept and address and had deemed it unfair for all customers mis sold the insurance policy. If someone got refunded completely in the past, today, that same person might not get their complete compensation. Experts ...
[Link]Little Wonders » The kindergarten graduate ...
And just like that. Another school year over. And the youngest Needham has bid adieu to kindergarten.
And we of course leave with a mix of emotions. This place, these people, have been our safe haven for the last 3 years. But the time has come to move on. The decision on where Zoey would attend first grade was not ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » The All Done Box
Parker has a bad habit of throwing things. Finished playing with a toy? Huck it. Done with that crayon. Huck it. Want Mom’s attention? Pick up something and huck it. Our solution to my kid’s budding career as a baseball pitcher? The All Done Box.
It’s nothing fancy. Just a plastic box with the words ‘Parker’s All Done Box’ ...
[Link]Mom-Blog » Review: “Margaret From Maine” by Joseph Monninger
Images & links from Amazon affiliate program. I received a copy of this book for review purposes.
Margaret from Maine
Praying For Parker » Fundraising and my medically fragile child with special needs
I know I’ve told this story before. But I’m going to tell it again. It helps to give a bit of insight into what it is like to raise a medically fragile child with special needs.
When Parker was being life flighted up to PCMC the first time, Reed and I felt secure knowing that even though Parker had a few ...
[Link]- Painting With Shadows - » How Many Buzzards?
For the past year and a half, Scruffy Buzzards has been a four-piece band. On Friday we will be playing on the main stage at the Eden Festival as a five-piece, with the introduction of Chris Henry on drums.
Up until now, Bruce has been on the cajón (pronounced, ka-hon), which is a box you can sit on ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » Call to Action Ref: Death of Ethan Saylor
The National Down Syndrome Society and National Down Syndrome Congress have put out a joint Call to Action regarding a push for an Independent Investigation into the death of (Robert) Ethan Saylor.
Mr Saylor's family still does not have justice for Ethan. There are unanswered questions surrounding his death five months ago. Question such as why he had a crushed larynx.Why ... [Link]
Mom-Blog » Top 5 Things to Kick Off Father’s Day Week
This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Warner Bros.
What are you doing on Father’s Day for your Superman?
June 16th is Father’s Day already – can you believe it? Somehow, every year we manage to finagle vacation, arriving just in time to launch “Father’s Day Week.” YES, that’s what we celebrate around here- a ...
[Link]The Bates Motel » When an Impulse Buy Goes Very, Very Right
We honestly didn't know what to get Samantha for her birthday, so we didn't really get anything. I think that may make us sound like bad parents, but sometimes we can be a little blinded by being too close to her on a daily basis. All we see is a child who doesn't play much with toys, who doesn't like to ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » A Brave Hero and his AmTryke!
It’s official. We received word today that Parker will be getting his adaptive bike! Yeeee-Haw! He’ll be getting the AmTryke ProSeries 1512 with Rear Steering Control.
Over the Moon. That’s how we feel. Over the Moon with excitement and thankfulness. Being able to ride a bike will open a whole new world for Parker in so many ...
[Link]Life With My Special Ks » Picture Catch Up Part 2
Random... :)
Kokonut... he's almost a year old!
In case you were wondering...
What? You don't stand like this? LOL
Keeghan's Kindergarten play... they were woodland animals. :)
My little squirrel
Hip Hop Girl
Just because
Kenn and her friend Emily at the zoo
Monkey in the middle...
Kennedy and ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Living by the pulse oximeter
Several times a day and all night long Parker is hooked up to his pulse oximeter. This lets us know how high his oxygen concentrations are (needs to be over 95%), and where his heart rate is at.
We’ve learned that by keeping a close eye on Parker’s pulse oximeter we can tell if there is something nervous making coming down ...
[Link]The Bates Motel » The Calm After the Storm, or Post Party Peace
And so as the craziness of the last 3 months begins to wind down, as I try to re-group and find myself again, to find my voice that had until now been such a constant companion of both my waking and sleeping hours (figuratively, folks! My husband will readily tell you that my voice is already loud and clear on ... [Link]
Mom-Blog » Acceptance of Disability, Round??
My ongoing topic of “acceptance” has reached a new level…
Over the last few weeks, I’ve been working on an interesting project about kids with disabilities who have siblings. One important topic I had to cover while interviewing families was the need for lifelong care and financial planning for children with disabilities.
We are SO far behind in this ...
[Link]Praying For Parker » Granny Bread: A Homemade Bread Recipe
Around this joint all the grocery stores sell Granny Bread. It’s soft, squishy, spongy white bread. People love it. I remember when you could buy it at the Day Old Store for a whopping .80 cents a loaf. Then all the grocery stores got together to complain that they couldn’t match the Day Old Store prices and suddenly the loaves of ...
[Link]Big Blueberry Eyes » Bittersweet
It's been 10 months since my dad passed away.
I knew there would be things I would miss out on sharing with him; little and big things with his grandkids he wouldn't be around to witness.
I knew there would be all those 'firsts' to get through - his birthday, holidays, etc.
While there has been a lot of good things for us ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Libert's Photo Shoot
This was a fun morning for Kennedy! She got to take part in a photo shoot for Libert's Dancewear and will be in their Fall catalog! We actually almost missed the shoot this morning because I thought it was tomorrow morning (oops!) but they called us and we made it there, only a little bit late! :)
Libert's is doing a ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » On Disneyland and a Colonoscopy
This kid graduated last week. There were tears of joy from the family. And tears of thanksgiving from more than one teacher. heh.
For his graduation gift my kids all worked together to give Rigel an all expenses paid trip to Disneyland. Four of my kids and my son in law will be going. The Curly Girly has been ...
[Link]Mom-Blog » Mamavation Mondays: Mom-Blog Changes Again!
My “2013 year of eating right and working out” has been an ABYSMAL failure, and the fact that I’m writing for a company that sells fitness equipment has truly guilted me out. So I have decided a few things:
- I am applying for the new Mamavation campaign. Actually, they have changed the parameters, so they are RIGHT up my alley, ...
Raising Joey » France’s Philosophy Dedication is Something I Really Envy
A recent article in BBC had me read about the French dedication to philosophy being a core part of their curriculum. I’m actually envious of their educational system. Regardless whether the writer actually found it troublesome or convenient, I find it reflective of a civilised culture; an educational system I’d like my Joey to actually belong in.
I actually teach ...
[Link]Life According to Emma & Joe » Trip to Beaver Island
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Life According to Emma & Joe » Red Cedar's (Joe's school) International Festival
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Life According to Emma & Joe » Oberlin Reunion 2013
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5 Minutes for Special Needs » Magic Marker Monday — Hooray For Summer…
“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…
We just wrapped up our school year and the 10-year-old drew a ...
[Link]Ralph and the Crew » He loves without fear...
Happy Birthday, dear Theodore Honor Nance. You are beautiful, and a joy to me!
Days like today, I cannot help but think of the woman who ran away from the hospital when you were born to her. She must have been very frightened...possibly on purpose by the doctors. Maybe they lied to her about your survival, or your worth. Maybe they ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Now I Can intensive therapy.
I’ve never been more shocked by my insurance company. Well, I have. But this is shocked in a good way, which I’m pretty sure has never happened before. I received a call telling me that after we paid out the deductible on Parker, and then paid the 20% of each session, our insurance will pay the remaining 80% of 20 sessions ...
[Link]Little Wonders » "Toughness is in the soul and spirit,not the muscles."~Alex Karras
Four years ago today, Zoey Grace was released from treatment of leukemia and fittingly, today happens to be National Cancer Survivor Day.
June 2, 2009 culminated 8 months of intense chemotherapy to rid her body, once and for all, from the a blood disease that threatened to take her life.
When Zoey was first diagnosed, the end seemed so ... [Link]
Snippets » Sunflowers | 2013
We have planted sunflowers for the last 3 years, I think. They are HUGE this year and so, so pretty! I spent the morning out in the heat the other day and caught what was buzzing around...
The one & only orange sunflower that bloomed out of the entire packet we planted...
Got pollen?
... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Picture Catch Up - Birthdays
I have been way behind on posting pictures... with Keeghan and Kennedy's birthdays, the end of the school year and Kennedy's dance recital (which was yesterday), I take pictures and let them pile up because there is just no time!! Now we have a little break and time to breathe!
Here are some pictures from May. As you can see, we ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Yard Sale Saturday!
My oldest daughter, Bailey and I are heading out for a couple of hours of hitting the yard sales. She’ll be outfitting a new home soon and is looking for a few things. I have my list in hand too!
Yesterday I came across a box of wide mouth mason jars for .10 cents each. The spiders were free. ...
[Link]Life With My Special Ks » Q&A #261
Questions inspired by the questions! So- with the modifications- do you suggest them? Does the Reg Ed , the Resource teacher or the therapists? How specifically are they written in the IEP? Have you had to come up with them on your own? Accomodations vs goals- do you have many academic goals or do you focus on accomodations first and if ... [Link]
Mom-Blog » Summertime Solutions To Bullying
Lately, I see a lot of talk about bullying – it’s a rising problem in schools, cyberbullying is a big issue, kids with special needs and LGBT teens are a big target, etc., etc.
In fact, it’s a problem in OUR school – our diverse, hip, parents-totally-involved, non-traditional, seven generations based school.
And it’s really disturbing to me. The solutions ...
[Link]Praying For Parker » Wrinkled sheets and time management.
I don’t iron my sheets any more. Yes, I know there are those of you who think that ironing sheets is a symptom of a deeper issue, but my mom ironed her sheets and well, the cleaning gene doesn’t fall far from the ironing board. As I’ve been working on a better time management system, I’ve been giving up some of ...
[Link]Ralph and the Crew » A more complete update...
Well, Mr. Twisty is doing great. After a few days, the fur started to fall off on his hind leg, but it's growing back now and he is getting around just fine.
Life here is insane right now. School is out and I'm trying to find a groove. I'm bottom heavy on kids with six of them age eight and under. ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » Make A Joyful Noise
Psalm 98: 4-6
4 Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous sound and sing praises! 5 Sing praises to the Lord with the lyre, with the lyre and the sound of melody! 6 With Trumpets and the sound of the horn Make a joyful noise before the King, the Lord!
Tonight was Angela's ... [Link]
The Bates Motel » 7
I have nothing to say today that hasn't already been said by me a million times. My daughter is my world, and the last 7 years have been the most amazing years of my life. I woke up this morning shortly before 5am, after burning the midnight oil working on some of the details for her party this weekend, waiting ... [Link]
Matthew Nicholas Vawter » Works for Me: Raspberry Greek Yogurt Cheesecake Bites
I did it! 
I perfected the Greek-yogurt mini-cheesecake! (at least, for my taste.)
Other recipes I had tried tasted too much like yogurt, and not enough like cheesecake. These are just right: the taste and texture of real cheesecake, with enough greek yogurt to make them guilt-free. I served these at a Bunco party I hosted a couple weeks ...
[Link]Life With My Special Ks » Letting Go...
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"Letting go doesn't mean giving up, but rather accepting that there are things that cannot be."
This afternoon, Frank and I spent a long time reading over documents and signing our name at the bottom in the presence of witnesses. Each signature was signed with sadness as we let go of some of our dreams for our family, but there was ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Teaching your child with special needs how to write.
I wanted to share a great tip for teaching your child with special needs how to write. When you break down the actual action of writing, you break it down into vertical lines, horizontal lines, and circles.
Parker is perfectly capable of making lines and circles.
Unfortunately he would rather throw his writing utensil rather than use it.
Drives. Me. Nuts. ...
[Link]Life With My Special Ks » Q&A #260
Oops I forgot to ask if Kennedy is actually doing all the same exact work level/requirements as the other students are to graduate each grade, or does the school lower the expectations/requirements for the inclusion kids? Im confused if inclusion meant just having them sit with their same age peers in the same classroom, or is inclusion actually also doing the ... [Link]
The Bates Motel » Don't Wake the Bear!
Maybe I need to wear that sign around my neck. I'm usually a pretty docile sort of creature, swayed more frequently by calm and beauty than the need to hunt or protect. Protecting is always happening, but in a much more passive way, one that occurs more on the homefront in teaching my cub to do things safely herself . But every ... [Link]
Little Wonders » "In this life we cannot do great things. We can only do small things with great love." ~ Mother Teresa
You may have noticed my two new links to the right. They will take you directly to my fundraising page if you care to follow them. I put those up the other day and bombarded my friends on Facebook asking for donations. If you are my friend over on FB, so sorry for the repeat here. But to me, its ... [Link]
Not That You Asked » Mohs Nose Woes Part 4
It's been a week today since I had a rather large scoop of carcinoma removed from the side of my nose.
I have to keep the wound moist (is there a more disgusting word?) and covered for two more weeks. The swelling is mostly gone and it is only a little sore now.
As far as healing, it doesn't look like anything ... [Link]
Not That You Asked » So, it's Sibshops Time
Remember a few years ago when I wrote here about Sibshops and about how it seemed like a bad idea because it gave siblings of kids with disabilities an excuse to get together and complain about how different and hard their lives are and how I thought it would draw attention to problems or difficulties that might not already be ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Homeschooling my child with special needs.
We took Parker to school last week. Not every day and not all day long. Nope. A couple of days and a couple of hours per day. By Friday Parker was sick. By Sunday he was sicker. When my medically fragile kid gets sick during the healthy season, I know that homeschooling my child with special needs is the right choice ...
[Link]- Painting With Shadows - » 127 Humphrey Bogarts
Spring Fling is over for another year and my studio walls are now adorned with 127 Humphrey Bogarts.
Trench coat and trilby - time for a comeback...
One of the effects of photographing everyone wearing the same hat and coat, from the same angle, with the same lighting, is it emphasises the differences. And what differences there were! ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » Happy Braty Dad
Joe's birthday was a couple of weeks ago. After dinner we celebrated with some cake and ice cream. When we finished it was time to start getting the kids ready for bed. Kayla was lingering at the kitchen table with a pen and paper. Joe glanced over her should to see what she was doing and saw she had written ... [Link]
Mom-Blog » If Autism Is Medical, How Come I Feel So Bad?
Book link and image are my Amazon affiliate links.
The other night I couldn’t sleep, so I started reading “Recovering Autism, ADHD, & Special Needs
Life With My Special Ks » Our Memorial Day...
We had a great Memorial Day... Frank is working nights right now so he was home (I guess he would have been home anyway since it's a holiday) ;) so we took off to Old Colorado City for Territory Days... we weren't really sure what to expect, but it was a lot of fun. They had lots of booths set ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » 1 Month Home!
Can you believe that we've been home with Abel for a whole month? We came home on April 27th. In many ways this month has been exhausting, but I always feel this way when we come home. It takes some adjusting to add an older, traumatized and very mobile kid to the routine of the household.
The first week home, mornings ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Yard Sale Scores
It’s finally turned yard sale season around here. I have my list and I’ve been out a couple of times. I’m being very picky. Just because something is a great deal doesn’t mean you uh…..I….. need it. Now on to this week’s yard sale scores!
I’m always on the look out for great deals on clothes for Parker. He’s an eight ...
[Link]Garden of Eagan » At The Park
Although this weekend (Memorial weekend) is cold and gloomy, last weekend was beautiful! We've been scrambling to get some much-needed yard work done but took a break to visit the neighborhood park. Angela was really sick so she stayed home but the boys had a blast!
Axel is deathly afraid of heights, or climbing structures he's not familiar with. He was ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Graduation Day!!
Sorry it's been a little quiet around here lately. The last week of school is always busy with parties to plan, last minute homework to turn in, and other things to do. This year was especially busy because Kameron was getting ready to graduate from Elementary school!! His school puts on a GREAT day for the outgoing 5th graders and ... [Link]
RYLIE » Rylie and Libby
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Mom-Blog » Review: Morton Subotnick’s Pitch Painter iPad App for Making Music #ad
I received a download of this app for review.
Morton Subotnick’s Pitch Painter iPad App, while being quite a mouthful, is a great app for making music! Designed for preschoolers, it’s perfect for kids with sensory issues too. It works great – Zoe loads it up every chance she gets. This app is written by Morton Subotnick, the ...
Mom-Blog » 8 Myths About Celiac Disease & Gluten-Free Living
Products were received in exchange for this review.
May is Celiac Awareness Month, and as someone who’s been raising gluten-free kids for two years, I can tell you that it’s not easy! Now my children do not have celiac disease, but they do have food sensitivities, and I can absolutely tell when they have been cross-contaminated! I have ...
[Link]Mom-Blog » How to Have a Good IEP Meeting
I just came back from Amelia’s IEP meeting, and it was a good one. I know that some of you are reading this and wondering how I got so lucky and why YOU can’t have a good IEP. Why is it a day that brings on stress, and possibly rage and tears?
I HAVE BEEN THERE. IEP meeting day ...
[Link]Mom-Blog » Successes, “Learning Opportunities,” & Curing Autism
Amelia enjoys Hawk Mountain on a field trip. I love this image!
Success:At the teacher’s conference, I found out that the kids did a great job this year, but I was heartened to hear that Zoe is not just a great kid, she’s also a good friend and learning to have a heart of compassion. She was on the ...
[Link]Mom-Blog » Mamavation Monday: Flailing
So this is a constant thing in my posts: failing & flailing.
Ugh.
I am not eating right, drinking right, too much coffee, not sleeping right or enough, sore, in pain, crampy..
OK, I didn’t mean to write a list of complaints, I’m sorry! The deal is I’m just completely overwhelmed. I have no idea how to get from ...
[Link]Mom-Blog » The American Cancer Society Turns 100 Sponsored Video #ad
This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of the American Cancer Society.
Well, in a week full of crummy news, an online friend lost her husband to cancer, and I found out that my dear friend Katrina lost one of her few local writer pals in a battle with cancer.
There is no other way to ...
[Link]Mom-Blog » Farewell, Mikaela Lynch – Missing Kids & the Peril of Autism
Tonight is a sad night for many people, but perhaps none as much as the Lynch family. Their 9 year old daughter, Mikaela, drowned after getting out of the vacation house when no one saw her.
This is a common tragedy, sadly, for parents of children with autism. Mikaela was severely developmentally disabled, having the cognitive ability of a ...
[Link]Mom-Blog » Introducing Noubar – Proudly Made in the USA
I love good quality recycled products, gorgeous design, and all that is even better if the product is made in the USA. That’s why I’m excited to introduce you to Noubar Bags. Made from repurposed billboard ads, these fold over clutches are gorgeous! See:
Beauty helping to save the environment and made in America? What could be better? And ...
[Link]Mom-Blog » What My Kids – and The Autism Diet – Have Taught Me About Eating Well
Every Tuesday, I try to write something I learn or take away from raising kids with disabilities. This week, it’s a little more closer to home, in that I’m thinking about how raising my children has directly changed my life.
In fact, it’s directly changed every single item that lines my pantry and fridge.
About 2 years ago, we ...
[Link]Mom-Blog » Review: Viviana Foods Gluten Free Pasta #ad
It’s been difficult to find a palatable gluten free pasta that is painless and easy to cook. I think I’ve tried just about every one, and none of them is satisfying or the right consistency for this fussy Italian woman. That is, until I recently received a sample of Viviana’s gluten free pasta for review.
Tomato Bacon Chicken with Gluten ...
[Link]SHAMPTONS » Inspiration
Stella Young wrote a wonderful piece for abc ramp up - unfortunately I can't link it from my mobile but it is worth googling. Worth googling because what she says is worth considering deeply. I find myself agreeing with her but at the same time I find myself admiring her - for her courage and her intellect. I admire my ... [Link]
Little Wonders » Namaste Mohini ...
I hate goodbyes. Always have. I don't know anyone who actually likes them, but me, I avoid them at all costs if I can. Cry. Everytime. A lot. And the kind of goodbyes I have had to say over the last 4 years, the last 10 months specifically, well, those goodbyes, unavoidable. Horrible. And to be honest, I'd like to ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » End of Preschool
My baby 'graduated' from preschool on Monday. I can't believe that in just over 2 months Lucas will be starting Kindergarten.
We were cuddling Monday morning and I said exactly that to him .. about my baby graduating preschool.
Of course he corrected me, "I'm not a baby!"
"I know you're not, but you're MY baby. You'll always be my baby." I told ... [Link]
Life According to Emma & Joe » writing award 2013
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Snippets » May 23 | 2013
Blah, blah, blah...
Yeah - it's been busy.
Here's photos from today - the last day of school for the 2012-2013 School Year. We now have a 5th grader and a 10th grader (HS Sophmore). Lord help us - LOL!
You can see all the photos from the 1st day of school here.
Once again - we were in a pretty big hurry before ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Grocery Challenge
Rigel leaves to go into the MTC on August 28th. Washington, Seattle will be where he will serve. I’m actually gonna miss this kid. Because families pay about $400.00 a month for what their Missionaries need while in the field, I’ve got to whittle our grocery budget down about $150.oo a month. This is a chuck considering our grocery budget is ...
[Link]Garden of Eagan » Busyness
Last week Abel saw the dentist for the first time. No pictures of this visit because I was busy...you know...being a mom. The dentist confirmed what we already knew, but...you know...you have to actually be seen by the real doctor in order to make decisions. LOL Anyway, it was confirmed that he needs several teeth pulled (baby teeth that haven't ... [Link]
Now I'm a Mom » Happy 14th Birthday to our amazing son! ...........
14 years ago yesterday, my life changed forever…….in more ways than one.
I was about to become a mother for the first time.
I always knew that I wanted kids, and was so happy to have found the perfect man to be the father of my children when I found Mark.
After dreaming all through childhood and my early adult years about how ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » Creative Chaos Awards
Last week was the annual "Creative Chaos Awards" for Angela's broadcasting class at school.
The students in this class spend the year producing several videos, doing research, and learning about the production process. It is Angela's favorite class, and the highlight of the year for all the students is
this award ceremony.
The day is spent with their school "buddies" doing their hair ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » It's Not An Adjective
1.) She's blond.
2.) The short boy.
3.) She is blue-eyed.
4.) She's Down syndrome.
5.) The blind lady.
6.) He is deaf.
7.) The European guy.
One of these sentences is not like the others; it's not grammatically correct and it is incorrect in its usage and description.
That sentence, of course, is any variation of "she's Down syndrome/she's Downs/she is Down syndrome."
(This isn't about People First ... [Link]
2 Pirates and a Princess » My Letter to Kirby
Kirby Co.
1355 Central St.
Leominster, MA 01453
Dear Kirby,
On Monday evening, a representative from your store called to offer me a free rug cleaning. We’ve done this before, so I knew basically what to expect: a rep would clean one rug in my home, as long as I listened to the hard sell about your product.
As an extra incentive, if ... [Link]
- Painting With Shadows - » I’m Humphrey Bogart and so’s my wife
This weekend, 25th to 27th May, is Spring Fling – an open studios event taking place across this corner of Scotland. 93 different studios of artists, sculptors, ceramicists, photographers, weavers, printmakers and the like will be open to the public to meet the creatives in their own environment. This will be Maggie’s 6th and my 3rd year of participation ... [Link]
Not That You Asked » Jude at School
After my last post about Jude's hitting problem at school, the principal returned from a week away visiting a sick family member, and she was more than a little upset. She said to the special education teacher that Jude is a "threat to public safety" and suggested that he only return to the general education classroom if he was away ... [Link]
Not That You Asked » Mohs Nose Woes Part 3
So, it's the next day. I am experiencing a little bit of regret that I didn't just go ahead and just "fix it" by doing the reconstruction yesterday. I was already there, numbed up, in the chair and ready to go. But geez. It was going to be a lot of cutting and stitching and the truth is, I think ... [Link]
The Bates Motel » The Obligatory Pre-Party Prep Post
Since Sammi turned 5, I think, I determined that I wouldn't go the pre-fab party gear route for her birthday parties. Inspired at the time by the likes of Kelle Hampton, Parents Magazine and the rise of Pinterest, I began to let loose my "crafty" inner-self (hahaha) and try to do it on my own, with not much more than ... [Link]
These Broken Vases | Finding Beauty in Unexpected Places » Going On a Field Trip!
Last week, I got to join Ellie and Nina on their school field trip. It was a hot day at a farm, but it was so much fun!
I took lots of pictures, and so you get a photo-dump post today!
Of course I asked the girls to pose, and Nina is a more willing participant, since she is not running around ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » The worth of my son with special needs.
When Parker was just a baby, we took him to an Endocrinologist due to his growth issues. She looked over Parker’s records and then looked at me. As she stared me straight in the eye she tole me that Parker was a kid not only with severe pulmonary hypertension, but also a kid with Down syndrome; and what would doing anything really ...
[Link]Life According to Emma & Joe » Joe working at the computer at school
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Prince Vince Meets the World » Three is a charm
First pair broke, second pair he hid somewhere in school some time in February (the whole school has been involved in trying to find them), third pair was finally ready today.
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Not That You Asked » Mohs Woes Part 2
Well, it's over. I'm home. It was unpleasant, but then again not worse than I imagined at all.
It took two passes at it to get all of the abnormal cells, so the wound is sizable. Bigger than a pea, smaller than a grape. A blueberry, I'd say.
After some discussion with the doctor and the nurses, I made the decision to ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » AAAA's
Some people are confused about all the A's in our house, and who is who. Let me go back and tell you a little about each one. It may help, or possibly confuse you more! HA!
Angela - age 16 
Named for the angels of faith who kept her alive during a very difficult pregnancy. Angela, turning 17 next month, ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » Communicating
I do believe Asher and Abel just had their first conversation!
The setting: boys are getting dressed. Asher has has just stood up after putting on his pants. Abel is still sitting on the floor just hanging out. Keep in mind this conversation took place in American Sign Language without an intervention from me.
Asher (tapping Abel gently on the shoulder.): "Stand ... [Link]
SHAMPTONS » Music and Down Syndrome
I think it is time to write about music - and Down Syndrome. I have tried googling it at different times but have not ever found information to help me decide on how best to approach music and Hannah. I know people like Sujeet Desai are very talented musicians - but I am wondering how to harness Hannah's interest in ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Two Ingredient Playdough Recipe
I love me a quick and easy playdough recipe. This one meets all the requirements. Plus, it is simple to put together AND it’s cheap. How’s that for a perfect summer time activity?
You’ll need:
- 1 can regular shaving cream. (not the gel kind)
- 1 box of corn starch.
- liquid tempera paint (optional)
...
Not That You Asked » Mohs Nose Woes
Tomorrow's the big day! I thought it would be neato for everyone if I drag you along with me on this experience. So, here's a picture of the offending spot. Can you see it? It's a wee little red area just above the crease.
Tomorrow I'll post a picture of what it looks like after the procedure, and then I'll ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » Ethics in Adoption
Today Jen Hatmaker has Pt 2 of a series on ethics in adoption. She makes many valid points, some of which I would like to highlight here because they are *all* issues I ran into during my first adoption from Serbia. ( which are no longer an issue!!!) Please take a trip over to Jen's blog and have ... [Link]
These Broken Vases | Finding Beauty in Unexpected Places » Our First Dance Recital
I have so many pictures to share and all sorts of catching up to do. I will begin with most recent events and work my way back, so bear with me.
To start, Ellie had her first ballet recital last Friday. She did amazing! I know I am her mom, and I am most likely biased, but I think she stood ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » Kayla Answers the Questions
Here are Kayla's answers to the questions I asked Lucas earlier:
1. What is something your mom always says to you? "Kayla's not listening. Kayla's happy listening to mom."
2. What makes your mom happy? "I clip up!" (when she 'clips up' in school meaning she had a good, great, or outstanding day).
3. What makes your mom sad? "Be bad, not listening." ... [Link]
The Bates Motel » Porky Pies
The English have a whole catalogue of regional accents and dialects, identifiable right down to a village within a town or county. It's pretty amazing, really. And within the confines of London itself, there are several distinct and separate dialects as well, most notably Cockney. Cockney has its own language of sorts, using something called "rhyming slang" to denote a word ... [Link]
Matthew Nicholas Vawter » My First Birthday
I had my first birthday three weeks ago, and my mom hasn’t posted any pictures yet. She says she’s been busy, and I even think she blames me for some of her lack of “free time.”
(I have some new teeth coming in, and I do want to be close to my Mommy every minute of the day, and I’m waking ...
[Link]5 Minutes for Special Needs » Magic Marker Monday — When it Rains…
“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 hand writing assignment from the 10-year-old that inspired extra rainy ...
[Link]Praying For Parker » One income living with a medically fragile child with special needs.
I’ve always been a stay at home Mom who is well versed in one income living. There have been times when I’ve worked at home to bring in extra money. With Parker’s intense needs, trying to work while keeping him alive just isn’t in the plan. Add in the homeschooling and therapies and you’ve got a full time job right there. ...
[Link]SHAMPTONS » Hadron Colliders
Hadron Colliders at Petersham
so the DH and one of the dads from school are in a band...and they played at our old stamping ground - the place where the 'shams' was born.... I thought of naming this blog 'shambles' cos that is what my life often seems like - but decided to be ambitious and go for a play on ... [Link]
Prince Vince Meets the World » Artist
My little artist.
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Garden of Eagan » They're Back!
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Life With My Special Ks » An open letter to Colin Brewer
Dear Mr. Brewer,
I just read an article about you and your feelings about my child. Apparently to you, my 9 year old daughter's life is not one who is worthy in your book. In fact, you equated her to a deformed lamb and said she should be killed by smashing her against a wall. Did I get that right, or ... [Link]
Beneath the Wings » Temorary Insanity????
Even after losing 75 kilos, I need to stay constantly on guard.
Lately I have been walking a bit less, and also eating more. (I can blame that on the "shavuous" holiday, but I just used the holiday as an excuse to over-indulge in my favorite food, cheesecake...)
I need to face the fact that I am making unhealthy choices, ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Happiness is a Verb
What makes you happy? What are the things that are important in your life? Do you ever think about these kinds of things? I have lately. My conclusion? Happiness is a verb.
While that may not be such a huge surprise to anyone, it has certainly given me a lot of things to contemplate this last week.
Working on ...
[Link]Not That You Asked » Oh, hi blog!
Why is it I only think to update my blog these days when things seem a little out of control in my life? There is so much on my mind, it's all spilling over the edges and onto this blog.
Everyone is healthy. There are no disasters brewing that I am aware of, but I am worried about a coupla things. ... [Link]
Big Blueberry Eyes » Thick Skin
On March 21, for World Down Syndrome Day, I went to Kayla's school to read the book High Fives and a Big Heart to her class. I also wanted to talk a little bit with her classmates about Down syndrome and what it does and doesn't mean for Kayla. I showed them this picture of her chromosomes and explained ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » Growth
Last year Asher was new to us. He spent the last couple of months of school in a kindergarten classroom. He was SO TINY!!! This year he went back kindergarten with the same teacher and additional supports in place.
Last year for Mother's Day the kids gave us moms a picture. Since this is Asher's second time around, I was privileged ... [Link]
Garden of Eagan » Special Olympics Area Track Meet
Last week was our area track meet for Special Olympics. Angela and Axel were really excited, and Asher got to compete for the first time!
There were a few problems with the meet this year. I don't know if there was a different group running it, but the meet started late, nobody was standing at the finish, nor was it marked ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Therapy Ideas for Children from Yard Sales
I’m a woman on a mission to provide Parker with things he needs to meet his sensory needs, as well as physical (gross motor) and occupational therapy (fine motor) needs. I’m going to be seeking out therapy ideas for children from yard sales and thrift shops.
This is Parker’s healthy time of the year. It’s the time of the year that ...
[Link]Life According to Emma & Joe » Spring Orchestra Concert
Emma and friend walking to the concert
Emma's quintet "Quintology."
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- Painting With Shadows - » The Undefended Hour
Anne Lindsay has written a series of poems based on bizarre black and white photos from days gone by. Each of the images has a "What the...?" feel about them – whether it’s the woman in the mourning veil wearing boxing gloves, or the wee boy smoking a cigarette while sitting on a stool next to a chicken. ... [Link]
The Bates Motel » I Did It!
Whew!
And you know the crazy thing? I wasn't even the least bit nervous. Twentyhmphahemcoughcoughblah-someth~ years ago I would have been on bathroom visit #12, wiping the sweat from my palms lest I leave a squidgy pool on the piano keys for the next performer, barely able to breathe, the anxiety rising from my gut agonizingly slowly, threatening to exit ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » HAPPY BIRTHDAY KENNEDY!!!
Happy Birthday, Princess! Today you are NINE!! You've been waking up every morning for days asking, "Today's my birthday??" And we've had to keep saying, "Not yet..." But now, finally, TODAY is your birthday! I can't believe you are nine years old. You have come so far sweet girl and I so enjoy watching you grow in every area ... [Link]
Raising Joey » Removing Fear From Your Kids
When he was young, I was walking around with Joey in town and a dog came barking at us. He hid behind me and I showed him that the dog was harmless. It was an average height daschund who wanted to play with us. I touched its nose then its head and it smelled my hands. Then we became friends. I ...
[Link]Big Blueberry Eyes » Questions to Ask Your Kids
I came across this list of questions to ask your kids and thought it would be fun to hear what answers my kids came up with.
Here are the questions with Lucas's answers:
1. What is something your mom always says to you? "Clean up, get dressed, get your backpack."
2. What makes your mom happy? "Flowers."
3. What makes your mom sad? "I ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Parker’s IEP, Lobbyists, and dusting off my army boots.
We met for Parker’s IEP last week. Most of those at the table I truly love and owe an amazing amount of thanks too.
Notice I said most.
I had requested that the Occupation Therapist put into the IEP the need for an actual evaluation for Parker and the DATE by which it would be completed. Yup, two years and he’s ...
[Link]Life According to Emma & Joe » Opening Day, Miracle League of Mid-Michigan 2013
The MSU baseball team joined the Miracle League for opening day.
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Praying For Parker » An authentically inspired life.
It is important me that I create an authentically inspired life in a world where she who dies with the most toys wins. I know I can’t do it all and need to seek contentment and find a more simple way of living that my meets my definition of beautiful, regardless of what anyone else might consider that definition to be. ...
[Link]Life With My Special Ks » IEP Day
Today was Kennedy's annual IEP. It also happened to be Field Day thanks to the original Field Day being rained out, so that made for kind of a crazy, busy day! I think everyone will sleep well tonight!
Kennedy has made SO much progress in 2nd grade!! She mastered almost every one of her goals and has graduated from Occupational Therapy! ... [Link]
Life According to Emma & Joe » Special Olympics, Track and Field 2013
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Big Blueberry Eyes » Kayla's Runway Debut
Last week Kayla and I drove to Maryland for the Global Down Syndrome Foundation's Be Beautiful Be Yourself Gala and Fashion Show in Washington DC. Kayla was one of 25 models with Down syndrome who walked the runway with guest escorts.
Humor on our drive: As we were driving through VA we were stopped at a light when I noticed sign ... [Link]
The Bates Motel » The Kid's Got 'tude
For those of you who may not be familiar with the significance of Doc Martens (DMs), pretty much any punk rocker worth his/her salt owns a pair of their boots. There's far more actual historical relevance, but that's about where my interest began and ended. Personally, I never owned a pair, although I drooled over them plenty. I was kind of ... [Link]
5 Minutes for Special Needs » Magic Marker Monday — Goombas…
“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…
Caught the 7-year-old doodling goombas from Super Mario instead of working on ...
[Link]Beneath the Wings » "Mother's Day" and Ricki (and the rest of my kids, even more!!)
[image: another mosaic on Ricki's grave, this time a bird (who flew away....).]
Originally, I planned to visit Ricki's grave last Thursday, a month or so since my last visit. However, certain things cropped up, and I didn't manage, so I went today. (Even today I toyed with the idea of pushing the visit off another week or so, as ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » Life doesn’t come with a manual, it comes with a mother.
I am blessed with a wonderful Mother.
I’ve also been blessed with other women who have loved, mentored and mothered me as I’ve gone down this path of raising a medically fragile child with special needs. Women who have allowed me to cry on their shoulders, share my fears and have offered up grand counsel along with their prayers. Even those ...
[Link]Life According to Emma & Joe » Mother's Day, 2013
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Life With My Special Ks » Remembering Emilie
Today is Mother's Day... it's also Emilie Parker's 7th birthday. After the shooting at Sandy Hook hit the news, Emilie's face was the first one many of us saw. She made it very real for us and she stuck in our minds as the tragedy of that day unfolded before our eyes.
Emilie was the oldest daughter of Robbie and Alissa ... [Link]
Life According to Emma & Joe » Joe and his new karaoke machine
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Life According to Emma & Joe » Mom fox and kit
Looking at me through the living room window
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- Painting With Shadows - » First and last day of school
What I remember most about Rogan’s first day at school is that I was far more upset about it than he was.
My own school days were not overflowing with warm, fuzzy feelings. I recall it as being a place of hostility, tension and boredom. Leaving school was, up to that point, one of the happiest days of my life. ... [Link]
Little Wonders » It's so curious: one can resist tears and 'behave' very well in the hardest hours of grief. But then someone makes you a friendly sign behind a window, or one notices that a flower that was in bud only yesterday has suddenly blossomed, or
Grief sure is a sneaky thing. Some days, you are just cruising right along and you think to yourself, you know, I think I am doing good. Perhaps better then good. And then, out of the blue, you walk into a store, say a See's Candy store, to buy your granddaughter and your son a treat and almost immediately you ... [Link]
Praying For Parker » How to Catch a Rainbow Trout
Parker went to his end of the year class party. The theme? How to Catch a Rainbow Trout. Okay, so that wasn’t really the theme, but fishing was the activity of the day. Just a few minutes from our house is a fantastic public park with a stocked trout pond, complete with ducks and a grouchy goose.
I’m so glad ...
[Link]The Bates Motel » On Being a Mother
The day I became a mother was the most exciting, exhilarating, important day of my life.
Well, next to the day that I took a pregnancy test and confirmed what I'd been hoping and dreaming of for nearly a decade.
But really, that's the day I truly became a mother anyway, isn't it? That moment of understanding that my life was no longer ... [Link]
Cornish Adoption Journey » End of School-- Beginning of School!
Just 4 1/2 days left of school for Kristopher this school year, and our home school year is going to end at the same time! WOW, it has gone by quickly!!
As we finish off one year, we are getting ready to immediately jump in to another school year here at home, though. Last year I started homeschooling for the current ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Remembering Jessica
Today is Jessica Rekos' 7th birthday. I've done several of these memorial posts now and I've read about each child. I've learned about their lives and their interests and what they loved... and little Jessica seemed to hit me the hardest of all so far. I'm not sure why. Each child has something so special, each child has something that ... [Link]
Where There's A Will » Congratulations Dr. Karen Gaffney
Karen Gaffney is a pioneer in today's world, forging a path for others with Down syndrome to follow. Today the dreams and aspirations of people with Down syndrome are limitless and watching their successful achievements is awe inspiring for everyone. This is especially so for the parents of children with Down syndrome, as we turn from biased information and advice and ... [Link]
What-evah » A Change Will Do You Good
Yesterday marked the changing of the guard so to speak. I quit my job of three years. I know, I know. Those of you who know me, realize I change jobs, often. The pattern is about every two years. I made this one last three. Bully for me. Why am I hearing a british accent in my head?
I wanted this ... [Link]
Yeah, but Houdini didn't have these hips. » Slow Food
First let me say that I have a lot of sympathy with the Slow Food movement. I make a weekly menu - and I print it out! It includes each day's weather forecast and scheduled activities. Plus relevant clip art. This week's menu depicts a runner because Ellie will be in the Girls on the Run 5K downtown on Saturday ... [Link]
Life With My Special Ks » Mother's Day Tea
This afternoon I went to a Mother's Day Tea in Kameron's classroom. It was so much fun! They served us our choice of tea, and then we got to listen to poems that they wrote for us. Some were really sweet and others were hilarious!! They've been working a lot on writing this year... in fact, each student published two ... [Link]
