Erratic Bliss

Thoughts and Rants!

2011-11-16T10:52:00.000-08:00

There is an article that hit the press yesterday. It'sbeen all over facebook so if you have a child with Down Syndrome and Facebook, you have seen this article. For those of you that haven't seen it, let me catch you up to speed.

Here is the article in it's entirty if you chose the long version:
http://www.usatoday.com/news/opinion/forum/story/2011-11-14/blood-test-down-syndrome/51202078/1

It is written by a genetics physician and is very well written. He, himself, has a sister with Down Syndrome.

He stated the company Sequenom announced that with a simple blood draw at 10 weeks of gestation, a pregnant woman can now learn with near 99% accuracy whether her fetus has Down syndrome.

He goes on to share a survey that he and his colleague conducted and revealed that 99% of parents say they truly love their son or daughter with Down syndrome; 88% of brothers and sisters say they are better people because of their sibling with Down syndrome. People with Down syndrome themselves spoke up, too: 99% are happy with their lives, and 97% like who they are.

The other part of the article that got my attention was that he states, "No longer are people with Down syndrome "poor things," "sweet souls" or "retarded citizens." Instead, they and their families have claimed fulfilling lives, rich with "typical" life experiences"

Now for my two cents on the issue.

I am frustrated, saddened, irritated with this world's (and yes this is a world wide problem) obsession with the "perfect" child. For arguments sake, Molly is actually more perfect that I will ever be!

Let me point out the obvious. Individuals with Down Syndrome are not a menace to society. They are not non-verbal, low functioning, sickly little beings. Yes, they do struggle with speech, walking, and have a list of health issues but so do so many other kids without 47 chromosomes!

I have said it 1000 times; Molly has enriched our lives and the lives of all that are blessed enough to know her. We have learned to enjoy the small things, slow down, and enjoy!

It has been brought to my attention more times than I even care to mention that when an ultrasound reveals a problem and the child may have Down Syndrome, they are very quick to remind them that the pregnancy can be terminated.

As the educator at work says, "Knowledge is power...Only if you share it!" So why don't these OB's refer these parents to me, to someone who has a child with Down Syndrome to educate them on what it means to have a child with Down Syndrome. This is in addition to what the article states of giving booklet, Understanding a Down Syndrome Diagnosis, with fair and balanced information for expectant couples. I am not sure that my community does this but I am destined to find out.

When will the world realize that it is not a freaking death sentence to have a child with a disability? When a child with Down Syndrome is born, I literally cringe when I hear someone say, "oh...that is so sad" or "oh...that is too bad". They have no idea what you are saying. I realize that it is just his or her ignorance talking but I do have to count to 10.

OK. I feel better now. Off my soapbox.

For those new to my blog or just want to re-watch the most wonderful video about having a baby with Down Syndrome. Yes, it's true. It is the THIRD time I have put this on my blog but I just love it. So much that deserves repeating...

Maggie's First Play Date

2011-11-14T19:49:00.000-08:00

Maggie has a best friend we call Katie Bug. She is the cutest little ray of sunshine. Katie Bug and Maggie have been in daycare together for the past three years. They are also in dance together.

Katie Bug came to Maggie and Molly's Fifth Birthday Bash (which I still have to blog about as it was a fantastic day!) and it was her first birthday party she had ever attended. She did good. Her mom dropped her off and picked her up several hours later. No tears. No worries. She had fun.

It's a big deal when you are only 5. You know, to leave your mama's side and do something all by yourself.

Katie Bug's mom invited Maggie over last weekend for a play date. She was originally thinking it could be a sleep over but we both realized that this might be a little much for sweet Mag Pie.

And so, we decided that we would just make it a play date. Her mom was to pick both of the girls up from daycare around 4pm and drop Maggie off at home around 8pm.

Maggie was so stinkin' nervous. Cute nervous I must say.

"Mommy, I am just going over there until bedtime, right?" "You will be there to pick me up, right?"

I worked that night so shortly after I left for work, around 6pm, I texted her mom to see how it was going.

The response was, "I just dropped her off at home. She said she had to go home because it was dark outside, therefore, her bedtime and she had to go to bed"

The poor thing was just too nervous to enjoy her time away from her sister, whom steals her toys and wrecks her perfectly designed pictures and her brother whom is always picking on her and whom she is constantly fighting with.

There's no place like home.

What's in a name?

2011-11-10T13:59:00.000-08:00

When I started this blog a few years ago, I struggled with what to name it. I settled for "Four Wonders of Life" because my kids are really truly my greatest joy and wonder.

But the name just doesn't fit. I am a busy woman! I work as nurse, odd hours and weekends. I have a teenager, a school-ager, and two preschoolers. Go ahead and throw in an extra chromosome into the mix for good measure.

Seriously, I live a "crazy life".

So I went to the thesaurus and typed in "crazy life" and came up with my new blog name, "Erratic Bliss"

ERRATIC: "deviating from the usual or proper course in conduct or opinion"; having no certain or definite course; wandering; not fixed"

My daily schedule is ever changing. I always have to be ready for the curve ball. And trust me, it happens daily around here. It usually revolves around Miss Molly. Work allows me to stay home for 8 days in a row and then I end up going to work for 5 out of 7 days. Always an adventure.

BLISS: "perfect happiness; serene joy"

It's no surprise that researching the word "life" produced the word "bliss". I like the word.

Granted, there are days were I need to count to 10, scream, run! The teenager, the chromosomally enhanced child, the school ager that hates to read, the activities, the finances, the job, the hubs!!!! Ugh! How do I acquire the right balance to keep it all straight and narrow?? And well, nothing is perfect. Let's be honest, but for the most part, my life is full of happiness and joy.

So, this is where we are. Enjoying the journey of life with "Erratic Bliss"

Halloween Fun!!

2011-11-03T11:13:00.000-07:00

Halloween is so magical for the kids!

They love picking out the perfect costume.

This year was especially sweet for mom.

Gavin raided Uncle Jeremy's army chest for all the attire.

Maggie dressed as the same thing she was last year (couldn't convince her otherwise)

Molly got a special design from mommy's work.

Can't beat a year that didn't cost me a single penny!

The question I ask myself several times a day, "where's Molly?" came across my lips.

The surgeon had fled the OR. I found her running down the dirt road behind our house....

...And to Uncle Jeremy's house.

Molly really got into this treat or treating thing this year. Last year she went to three to four houses and was done. She didn't have much of an interest. So, we assumed she would be the same this year. After the first cul-de-sc, I told Mike to go ahead and take her home (Austin was handing out the candy) but she wasn't having it! About 15-20 houses later and hearing her sweet "trick or treat!....Thank You" I thought we better not press our luck and sent her home.

The neighborhood crew tradition! They all looked great!

Chloe and Taya decided to skip dinner this year and join us! What a treat!

We have a house in our neighborhood that is always, always into the holiday spirit and does a super fantastic job at Halloween. The kids never forget and love to go...

(This is a real life creepy guy posing for the camera! Creeeeepy!)

The kids loved checking it out. Some ~~(Chloe and Maggie)~~ of the kids were a little freaked out and had a hard time convincing them that it was all just pretend and had to have a lot of convincing to venture into "The Boneyard"

At bedtime that night, Gavin told me that "it was the best Halloween ever!".

Yup, he tells me that every year.

I love it as it shows that he had a blast!!

The Long Overdue Haircut

2011-10-25T16:15:00.000-07:00

Molly's hair is thin and fine, just like her mama's. It didn't look the best longer but she was a girl and I wanted her to have long hair.

However, she would threw an all out fit every time I wanted to put it up in a pretty, braid, ponies...ANYTHING! She hated the tugging and would pull away from me and cry and scream. Every. Single. Time.

And well, Daddy isn't a fan of putting her hair in a simple pretty. He is untrainable in the department, I guess. So she would go to daycare and school with nappy looking hair

So I cut it. On a whim one day. Called to make an appointment and got right in.

At first, I ~~hated~~ did not like it very much. I was so mad at myself for responding to that wild hair. ~~I really need to control those impulses.~~

It didn't take long to realize how cute it really was. While on vacation this summer, I added a feather to accessorize that new stylish do which made me like it even more.

Three months later, I am very happy with my decision. Not to mention Molly and daddy. Our morning routine has been much more peaceful.

Expectations

2011-10-07T08:21:00.000-07:00

Earlier this fall, I had mentioned to Mike that I would like Molly to take up dance. He was not too receptive to it which kind of surprised me because well, I am the one in charge of the activities and honestly wasn't expecting resistance. He might kill me for quoting him but I am sure there are many fathers of DS daughters that feel the same way.

He said, "No, she will just be disruptive to the class. She won't just follow directions and that is not fair to the other dancers. I know that you want her to do what everyone else does but she just isn't ready"

Well, you know me with that stubborn German blood running through me responds, "I am not doing this so she can be like everyone else. I am doing this because she loves music and she can follow directions"

The conversation did not go any further. Mike knew I would put her in it. And I did.

I had a nice long talk with the teacher and told her that I would like to see her attend 8 classes and if she was indeed disruptive, did not follow directions, and just isn't getting it, I would pull her out at that time but I really wanted to give this a solid effort. The teacher stated, "Oh my goodness, Tracy! She will be fine! I have had several girls with DS in class and they do great and so will Molly!"

Last night was her 3rd class. She doesn't allow parents in but she let me. For 5 minutes. So I watched in pure amazement and pride. She did it! She really, really did it! She stood in line, followed directions beautifully, and best of all she was having a blast! This girl is loving this!

When you have a child with DS, "they" warn you to keep your expectations low. I suppose to prevent disappointment. I think the hubs kinda keeps his guard up but not this mama! Guns out! Molly met my expectations last night and she exceeded her daddy's! She is her mama's girl. A little German blood running through those tiny little veins, keeping her strong!

You go girl! She ROCKED it!!

TaeKwonDo and ADHD

2011-10-05T07:00:00.000-07:00

I wanted to shift gears for a moment to talk a little about Mr. Gavin. That is what he goes by in his Tae Kwon Do class.

Gavin is a busy little man. My mom refers to him as a breathe of fresh air and ball full of energy. That is an adequate description of him, I must say.

We have had the "ADHD" talk in our home with him over the past few years. We have met with the child phsycologist, pediatricians, and have had the Vanderbilt testing, along with many conversation's his teachers the past three years.

The assessment, unfortunately, has been fairly inconsistent. Mainly between Mike and I. He thinks he is doing OK for himself. I, on the other hand, thinks he needs a little boost. Just a little something to help him retain his ability to focus on chores, school, and general day to day operation of things.

His first grade teacher was very adamant about him getting on something. No doubt in her mind! There were many, many meetings with that teacher.

His second grade teacher thought nope. Not a problem. He felt that Gavin responded well to praising, had strong and well established relationships with peers, and was able to complete his school work in an acceptable range. Again, another inconsistency.

We have "the prescription" in hand. I obtained this from his pediatrician over the summer after an hour long conversation. Still not convinced that that is THE answer.

It's not an easily obtainable diagnosis nor is the treatment.

So, to honor my husbands request, I have decided to hold onto that prescription for now. I have done some research on diet and have ~~failed miserably~~ implemented some of these things. Not to the extent that I think would be beneficial but man! To remove process foods from our diet with the busy life we live seems like a really steep hill to climb!

I then stumbled upon an article that a mom had written in regards to Tae Kwon Do and ADHD (after my pediatrician made the recommendation). Here is some of what she stated (and not all 100% pertaining to Gavin but you get the general idea):

"ADHD is gifted with spontaneity, creativeness and the ability to focus intensely on any task they take an interest in. All kids can be frequently distracted or inattentive and impulsive on occasion, but a child living with ADHD experiences these attributes most of the time. I know that as a parent I have a great deal of influence in helping him perceive these character traits as advantageous, instead of liabilities. The ADHD child doesn't lack focus but tends to apply that focus in inappropriate ways. He has a low tolerance for idleness and gets bored easily.

A martial art like tae kwon do always emphasizes self-confidence, self-esteem and self-control as part of the curriculum.

In our taekwondo classes, children learn the "right action" at the right moment which tempers impulsiveness and turns it into a positive action. Boredom is negligible due to the fast active pace of the class that is full of jumping and spinning, punching and kicking; the hyperactive child can unleash behavior in an appropriate way and be praised for it.

Another aspect of his tae kwon do training is tolerance and respect for everyone no matter what label society might have imposed.

And so, we enrolled Gavin in a local Tae Kwon Do class and he LOVES, LOVES, LOVES it!!!! He takes it with his cousin every Tuesday and Thursday and looks forward to the next class.

Last week, Gavin got his very first belt, The WHITE belt and I couldn't be more proud! He worked very hard at this!

So at the end of the day, he is happy. He has amazing confience, his totally building up his slef esteem and his working hard at control. Therefore, we are happy parents!

Molly's Mob

2011-10-04T13:04:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Maggie and Molly's Birthday this year at the

Step Up For Down Syndrome Walk in St Paul.

It has been a tradition in our family to do this since Molly was born.

(We obviously missed it the year she was born since it is always the last weekend in September)

It's one of my favorite activities to do and to see all the support.

Me and my two favorite lady friends.

These two have been there for me from the beginning and no doubt will always be there.

One of my favorite walkers reminded me of something pretty cool. Each year we donate and or walk for something and this walk is probably one of the only "happy" walks. So true.

Nanna, once again, brought treats and the birthday cake (that you see Molly sneaking a taste!) and presents along with and the rest of Molly's Marvelous Mob!

So after the walk, we celebrated Maggie and Molly's Fifth Birthday Party with song, cake and presents, followed by a trip to the zoo.

..And the day wouldn't be complete with a picture of the Hurlbuts! (Seriously, though K--you are my idol. I wish I would remember more often to take family shots like this)

As I was putting the girls to bed that night, I was asking Molly,

"Did you have a good 'all about Molly' day?"

and Maggie chimes in, "Mom! It was MY day too!"

I said, "Yes, Mag's. You are correct. It was a celebration for your birthday but also

to celebrate Molly and Down Syndrome"

She responds,

"Well, I have Down Syndrome too!"

Day One! Ya gotta read this! Whatta day!

2011-10-01T19:36:00.000-07:00

Today marks the beginning of my favorite month. The month of October celebrates and promotes Down Syndrome awareness. This is the time, on my blog and facebook, that I will share with the world how amazing Miss Molly is and how she has essentially made ME a better person, mother, friend, and wife. Really.

On Facebook, about three weeks ago, there were posts of an orphan, right here in the US with Down Syndrome. People were pleading to "please find this boy with DS a family of his own". You see, he was placed with a family prior to his arrival. Shortly after he made is grand entrance, his doctors revealed (what I call) his "secret". The little man was sporting that extra 21st Chromosome!

With that, the family gave him back. Just like that. Fools. Oh, what fools. If they had only known....

While reading this, I was thinking, "oh geesh! There are 100's of family's that will scoop this little ray of sunshine right up!" I really wasn't worried for the little man. Just excited for his new family to explore and learn all there is to know and learn about Down Syndrome.

So today, on the first day of October, the first day of Down Syndrome awareness month, I got to meet this little man and oh my! Is he so stinkin' cute and sweet! Yes, that's right. This sweet little orphan boy, whom I knew would find a family to call his own lives two doors down from me!

...And that is how I celebrated the first day of Down Syndrome Awareness month! It's gonna be a good month!

The long awaited day!!

2011-09-24T08:59:00.000-07:00

Last Monday, Maggie and Molly had their first day of preschool.

It was a HUGE day for Miss Maggie Jean

She watched her sister get on the bus and go to school for two years.

She was so itching to go!

She talked about this day for months. Literally!

She picked out the perfect outfit ~~weeks~~ the night before and was up before the sun.

Molly was like "what's the big deal sis?"

Molly was saying "There's the bus! There's the bus!" Maggie was grinning from ear to ear, squeezing Molly's hand!

Sweet Maggie ran onto the bus. She didn't even turn around so I could get a picture.

Buckled the ladies in. No tears. No fears. Just all smiles!

Look at that happy girl! She could hardly contain her excitement!

Molly's para sent home a note that made Mike and I laugh out loud! She writes:

"I am so happy that I get to work with Molly this year. I just love her so much; she's the best! She is such a hoot! Today while we were going potty, she fell on her butt and said, "Owie butt", turned around, lifted her dress and said, "kiss it!"

Gotta. Love. That. Girl!!

Molly recite's the ABC's...

2011-09-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

In Molly fashion....

It was quite a while ago that this video took place; back in March is my best guess.

Mike called out to me that Molly was being funny and reciting her ABC's. I just had to grab the flip camera and to record such a moment but he reminded me that she had already done it twice and was NOT going to cooperate once again. You know, for the THIRD time!

I find this sooooo funny that I just had to share Molly pausing to recite her colors and to tell daddy to "stop, stop"! And yet, still able to verbalize her ABC's...

I LOVE this little girl and all that she has learned....

Gav's First Day of Third Grade

2011-09-12T12:28:00.000-07:00

So here is he is!

Mr Gavin. Ready for the THIRD grade!

Oh my goodness!

We started school a week later this year due to construction.

It was a perfect day; 86 degrees and sunny.

Gavin got THE BEST teacher EVER this year, Mr R!

Just look at that smile! He couldn't wait to get those new shoes on and head to the bus stop!

The tradition continues with pic's of the kids...

Gav with the ladies...All with bright shiny shoes! Love it!

With his BFF's Henry and Jayden

Koop's and Gav; Best Cousins!

...And he's off!

It's gonna be a GREAT year! I can just feel it!

(Austin snuck out while I was at the bus stop so I missed his first day of school pic! I think it was intentional. Not so cool to have a Juniors pic taken)

Trusting others with your DS child

2011-01-06T20:09:00.000-08:00

Living life with a child with Down Syndrome is really truly amazing. Really. Is is. Our Miss Molly is really one sweet little lady.

But she does require more work. Not all DS kids are. But Molly is. She is 4 years old and requires a lot of attention. For the most part, we start each day with "letting her out of her room" by taking down the baby gate that is at her door. In the beginning, it was so she wouldn't fall down the 17 stairs we have. Now it's so she doesn't wander outside (well, the doors ARE locked) or wonder through the house and get into something while we are sleeping and harm herself. Then we progress through the day, letting Maggie and Gavin do what they want, go to the neighbors to play, play outside with the kids and even venture to the park.

But not Molly. We keep a watchful eye on her. For the most part, it is for her own safety but also it's to not burden others. But really, I think it comes down to a trust factor. Letting go. It's something that Mike and I have not yet learned. How do I know this?

Our dreams.

While taking a nap for a night shift, I had, what I considered at the time, a horrible dream. I could not sleep. It kept waking me up. I was dreaming that Molly was sent to the "neighbors" of a family member and I totally freaked out! I didn't know those people (even though the family member thought the world of this older lady that had lots of toys and made cookies and did arts and crafts with her). I was so upset that this family member sent her to this persons house! I was truly terrified. Even though she probably was a fine lady, I didn't trust her.

Without even mentioning this to Mike, he tells me that he couldn't sleep the next night because he was dreaming about Molly being in an assisted living facility and she was playing a board game with another adult with DS and was totally upset that the staff allowed her to "be on her own". He was so upset (in the dream) that no one was "supervising" her and making sure she was safe. He wanted to take her home! Even though he knew that she was safe, he didn't trust the facility.

Interesting that we both dreamed about allowing others to care for Molly and our subconscious minds would NOT allow this to occur or rather upset us so much?

I wonder if it is telling us it's time to let go and trust others to care for Molly? Or is it that we just worry so much more about our child with Down Syndrome?

Gav's Alian Invasion!

2011-01-04T08:26:00.000-08:00

In art class Gavin was taught how to make little people out of a simple piece of foil. This is what he brought home.... Once he was home, he took out the foil from our pantry and began to make several of these little alien like creatures. You know how kids are. Once they get their minds set on something, it's totally guns out! They multiplied before my eyes. He played with them for a couple of hours and then went outside to play with his bestie.

I went up to his room to find that these little creatures were all over his closet! I couldn't stop laughing!

On the trim over the door...

The corners of the closet...

Set up on little stands throughout the closet....

I got such a kick out of my 7 year olds imagination!

I tucked him in that night telling him how excited I was that he used his imagination to the fullest!

When I went to check on him before I went to bed, I found this sign on the closet door:

And this is what I found when I opened up the closet door...

All the little creatures tucked into their little cages. Love this kid!

It's a New Year!

2011-01-03T17:02:00.001-08:00

2010 was quite the year! You wouldn't know it by my poor, neglected blog. I missed out on so much by not blogging about the kids' birthday, their funny moments, our family trip. I must get better! This is the year. I think that the month of January will have to be a month of catch up. It will be a recap of 2010. It must!

Stay tuned....

Miss Molly's At It Again!

2010-12-02T12:37:00.000-08:00

I walked up to the ladies bathroom and found this.... Then I found this...

"Look mom! I can go potty all by myself!!"

My Main Man!

2010-11-27T06:33:00.000-08:00

I was so sad that I was unable to spend Thanksgiving with not one single family member! I loath that I have to miss out on family stuff because of work. I love what I do and hospital nursing is my "thing". I wouldn't have it any other way. But this time of year, those few days matter to me. I usually take the holidays in stride. Because usually one side of the family or the other shift the "family get together" by a weekend or a day or two so if I miss one, I always know there is a family holiday party that I can look forward to in the upcoming days.

Not this year. Both sides decided to have Thanksgiving dinner ON Thanksgiving Day this year.

I was throwing this big old pitty party to Mike on Wednesday night. Throwing an all out fit that I have to miss out and wish that family would rearrange the holiday festivities for lonely old me. Yes, I know. Completely unrealistic. Not happinin', I know. But still. I had to miss out on seeing EVERYONE. That stinks! Truly stinks! The double time helped. That is about all I was thankful for on Thanksgiving. The pitty party continued through the holiday until....

I woke up on Friday afternoon to find that my wonderful husband had made an entire Thanksgiving feast for lonely old me! He thought of everything. The 16lb turkey, stuffing, potato's, my favorite green bean casserole. All the bells and whistles.

We sat down as a family (minus Austin as he was spending the holiday weekend at my sisters) for THANKSGIVING DINNER!!!!!

I love my man!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-11-17T00:26:00.000-08:00

Halloween 2010

2010-11-14T17:30:00.000-08:00

Yup, it's two weeks post Halloween and here I am, finally getting around to blogging about it. You know, the week after Halloween, the blog world is full of fun posts of Halloween and I just didn't want to steal the show from anyone...so I waited. Hee! Hee!

It was warm this year. This is significant because in MN, it can be so stinkin' cold or so incredibly warm on Halloween night. It was around 50 degrees when we started and slowly dropped off to around 42 degrees. Not bad! And it was a clear sky full of stars and a bright, bright moon! It couldn't have been more perfect!

I had a total blast editing these pictures on Picnik! They had some fun stuff on there! The kids just giggled and giggled when they saw these!

Notice Molly running AWAY from the camera in the upper left. Typical Molly!

Oh, but of course Maggie has to be throwing her doll right at the time the picture is shot!

Notice the stitches! A lot of people asked if they were real! Boy, Gav sure was proud to say "YUP!"

We took the kids to the Haunted House in town "before all the monsters woke up". They got to see the house with the lights on and got a handful of candy at the end. **This is the ONLY picture of Miss Molly Kate**

I love this house! They give out the best candy and have a great yard!

This house took the prize! It was full of scary stuff! Awesome!

We hit every single house in North Pointe this year! Each bag must've weighed 25#!! It will take the kids until Easter to eat it all!

Gavin's First HUGE Boo-Boo!

2010-10-29T08:34:00.000-07:00

We have a great bedtime routine. One that I am very proud of.

We have bedtime snack and bath between 7-7:30. Then the kids get to watch one show at 7:30.
8:00 we brush our teeth, read our stories and lights out by 8:30.

It's a routine that usually goes quite smoothly.
Wednesday night was anything but smooth, simple, and quiet.

At 7:40, the kids are in our bedroom watching their show and I am at the computer, reviewing our benefits for the upcoming year through FedEx (Mike's new employer) when I hear a very loud THUMP followed by an alarming cry/scream from Gavin. You can recognize your kids' cry and this was a "OMG! I am terrified! I am really hurt!" cry.

I turned to Austin and said, "We are going to Urgent Care. The girls need to go to bed at 8"."

I was quite proud of my calm nature as Gavin came down the stairs with blood oozing from the middle of his forehead and a black and blue eye that already appeared to be puffy. I guess being a critical care pediatric nurse pays off. I've been in an emergency situation a time or two.

I text Mike to let him know what's going on (he was at work) and off we went to Urgent Care.

I must admit, I was worried that he had sustained a concussion. The wound could be stitched but I was worried about his head inside. I made him stay awake on the ride there. I kept asking him questions, to ensure his speech wasn't slurred. I asked him what the date was. He was tired. He wanted to sleep. After all, it was his bedtime. I wouldn't let him.

Daddy met us at Urgent Care. We had the talk with him that we had given him a hundred times over. NO MORE MONKEYS JUMPING ON THE BED!!!

Here is what he looked like before the stitches went in.

The poor kid looks just wiped out and dead tired. He just wanted to sleep.

The MD walked in, took one look at him and said, "Yup, he needs stitches."

EIGHT of them to be exact. He didn't even flinch when the doctor put in the lidocaine. He was too busy asking 101 questions. He was quite funny, actually. He did great! Mommy and daddy are so proud of our big boy!

In the morning, the eye looked so much worse! Poor buddy!

We kept him home from school yesterday for close observation. He went back today but was quite reluctant as he didn't want everyone to ask him what happened.

He jokes he should be frank n' stein for Halloween instead of a vampire.

Not a bad idea.

The Diva Returns

2010-10-17T14:27:00.000-07:00

I know I have blogged about my fashion diva before but I just had to do it again once more.

I pulled up from dropping the teenagers off at the skate park to see this totally cute little girl smiling at me!

So, let's review the diva's outfit, shall we?

We have the famous polka dotted hat and shiny purple coat; perfect for those cold winter days
Notice the swimsuit under her sundress; perfect for the beach since you never know when the opportunity will arise, you gotta be ready, right?
I didn't capture it but she is barefoot. Quite surprising actually since she goes between her flip flops, to Mary Jane's, to tennis shoes with in the first half of her day. You know, it just depends on her mood.
The outfit is topped off with a pink Barbie purse full of lip gloss and hair pretties

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-22T09:08:00.000-07:00

BF's Forever....

An added to treat to the party!

2010-09-06T20:13:00.000-07:00

At our monthly get together with Na and Kristin, Naomi brought face paint. What a great idea! That woman is such a hoot! Each and every child was soooo excited to get their face painted and even more excited to be able to "pick" what they wanted to be...

Taya was a vampire...

Chloe was a kitty cat....

Maggie was a butterfly...

..And Gav, well he was a werewolf! Of course!

Even Austin took part! How cool is this kid, anyway? Bob, the military man, filled in for Na as he is a specialist in camo paint!

And the finished product! Mom with the teenager. Love this boy, I tell ya!

As you can tell, Gavin had the most fun running around trying to scare everyone

It was getting dark by the time we were done painting 7 cute little faces but here they all are!

Na, being the awesome person she is, made sure Molly was included! I was so excited to see Molly all done up!

Just because Molly is so funny, this is her signing "poop" and then laughing. She thinks she is so funny all the time with her silly signs!

Mag's with the IPod. She looked so engrossed in this game!

My Favorite Ladies!

2010-08-28T13:08:00.000-07:00

You don't have to have a lot of friends, just some really good ones! These two ladies, Kristin and Naomi have rocked my world and have been there for me and given me support when no one else has or can. And have made it summer to remember!

Love you, ladies!!!!

Minnesota Nice!

2010-08-27T19:27:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things about Minnesota is the summers here. This year has been an amazing summer for warm weather. We have really taken advantage of the seasonably warm weather by spending a lot of time outdoors and on the water.

And one of the best things about where we live is that we live near a large chain of lakes and we have family and friends that have allowed us to share time with them on their boats.

It is a Minnesota tradition to go tubing behind the boat and this is the first year The Gav Man has taken part and has totally taken to it and loves it!

My brother, Jeremy took him out for his Birthday this year and he enjoyed a day with his cousins. He and Creighton tore it up!

Maggie was quite hesitant to par take in such activities but did it while sitting with her favorite man....daddy!!

It's just as fun when you can sit on the deck of the pontoon and watch your friends tube!

Gavin loooooves Miss Ellie! Watch out Miss Chloe....Gav may not wait around for you!

A Day In The Life...

2010-08-25T14:41:00.000-07:00

I have been blessed enough to spend a solid six days with my wonderful children. I took on the role of the stay at home mom. A role that I have an immense amount of respect for those that chose this as their career. Really. You stay at home parents truly amaze me. Everyday.

My days go something like this...

I wake up to Maggie, each and every single day, saying the name that I dreamed about growing up and the I have grown love (**Cough**), "mom! mom! Get up! Go downstairs with me. Now!"

Nope, no time to gather my thoughts. No time to process what time it is or what day it is. No time to even pee. Just get up and get down stairs...NOW!!

As I try to relieve my bladder and make my pot of coffee, I get interrupted with cereal of her choice thrown in my face to pour her and her siblings their cereal. You know, NOW! As they haven't eaten in 12 hours, right? Starving. Just starving.

Wake the teenager so he can get to soccer practice.

Change Molly and help the kids get dressed. Remind them several times to go up and brush their teeth.

Then, and only then can I go to the bathroom and make my coffee. NOW mommy's day can begin...

Gotta get the laundry started. As I am walking down the 17 steps from upstairs to downstairs with a very heavy laundry basket, I get the "Mom! Mom! Help me tie my dress. Mom! Mom!" Just a bleeeeepin' minute babe! Can't you see my hands are COMPLETELY full? Ugh!!

Wake the teenager so he can go to soccer practice. Yeah, I know, I already did that once!

Get the litter of children in the van to bring the teenager to soccer. Only, the teenager isn't ready...of course. Fight with Maggie and Gavin as they insist on sitting somewhere else in the van other than their assign seats. Why do they always pick the worst times to play musical chairs?? We were gonna be late! So, I pick my battle. Instead of dealing with the melt downs (as I don't have time on my side), I unbuckle the harnesses and put them where they want. Pick up another kid that is never ready. So we are late to practice. AGAIN!~

Get home. Do breakfast dishes. Do a couple loads of laundry. Go back and pick up the teenager from soccer practice. Make a quick, yet healthy lunch.

Nap time. Ahhhhhh! Mommy time. Best time of the day! Woot! Woot! But it doesn't last long.

Get the ladies up from nap, have snack, and bring the teenager to the skate park.

Once I get home, I have to deal with a neighborhood bully being mean to Gavin so I have to go deal with that drama. While that is going on, it starts to rain cats and dogs.

Throw the kids back in the van to get the teenager from the skate park--quick!! NO, you can NOT play musical seats! At this point, I resent the 5-point harnesses!!

Get home. Make dinner. Do MORE laundry. Break up a few more fights. No one can agree as to what to watch so I have to threaten to turn the TV off all together. Thank God for Good 'Ol Sponge Bob!

Clean a bathroom or two.

Call my sister-in-law, whom has breast cancer, whom I would love to give my undivided attention to but that is nearly impossible as I have three little beings hanging from my leg yelling "Mom! Mom! Mom!"

Lock myself in the garage and beg the teenager to watch them for 15 minutes so I can talk to her only to be interrupted by the teenager himself saying, "Mom! Are you done!"

Oh, just forget it! I will call her back. When? Well, I don't know, when Molly is 16??

Get the kids up to bed to brush their teeth and get their pull ups on. Fight with Molly to take her Melatonin so she will actually sleep through the night.

Have to read SIX bedtime stories. Why or why do you ask? Because no one can agree on a stinkin' story so I just end up reading a mini library. It's not a bad deal, however. The kids love it. So does mommy.

Then I fold all the laundry. Do the dinner dishes. And Crash!

So, I work the next 4 days. Thank you, God! Mommy is exhausted and needs a break! A break to the quiet walls of the NICU.

The Shirt Says It All!

2010-08-07T11:03:00.001-07:00

("I'm kind of a big deal")

Another subtle reminder

2010-07-30T10:51:00.000-07:00

I have mentioned time and time again just how different my two beautiful twin daughters are.

One is Short. One is tall.

One has blue eyes. One has brown eyes.

One looks like daddy. One looks like mommy.

One has three 21st chromosomes. One only has two.

As the girls get older, I am really beginning to notice how (do I dare say it?) delayed Molly is in compared to Maggie.

Don't get me wrong (and those of you that personally know me know this to be true) I cherish and love every STINKIN' thing about Molly. She is a breath of fresh air, she can and does put a smile on anyone's face. She is such a dolly.

Nonetheless, she is delayed. That is a part of who she is. Period.

When I see them at the park, I see Maggie (whom was born 6 short minutes before her sister) running up the steps and down the slide in two seconds flat.

Molly takes a little bit longer (ok, a LOT longer! lol) to accomplish this task.

It's things like this on a day to day basis that reminds me of how different they are and watching the gap widen is an amazing journey.

Here is my reminder today:

Maggie: "Mom, I need Addison's blanket! It is for Addison only"
Me: "Where is it?"
Maggie: "In the closet"
Me: "OK, you can go in there and grab it"
Maggie: "No, I can't reach it! It is on the top shelf. The one high up. You know what I mean, mom?"
Me: "Oh, OK. I will get it down for you"
Maggie: "It is the one on the bottom. The purple one"

1) She names all of her babies and knows who is who
2) She knows where the "top and bottom" are
3) She knows her colors
4) She communicates with such ease.

This is how this would go if it were Molly asking for the blanket

Molly: "Mom!" "Mom!" "Mooooom!"
Me: "Yes, Molly?"
Molly: (signing blanket, then pointing) "blanket" (in Molly's language, of course)

Good enough for me. I enjoy watching my girls grow up to be independent little girls.

8 years of bliss!!

2010-07-11T16:00:00.000-07:00

Today, Mike and I are celebrating our 8 year wedding anniversary. "Today I will marry my friend....one that I laugh with, live for, dream with, love"

I picked this saying for our wedding invitations because I thought that this is really what marriage is all about. I can honestly say that it does incorporate well into our marriage.

We laugh. We sometimes just have to laugh and the crazy life that we share together. Constantly going. Moving. Action.

Live for. There are days that I live for Mike. Those days that only he can help me through it and I am so thankful that I have him in my life. He's a fabulous daddy to our litter of children. He is the soft and sensitive one. He keeps me grounded, if that's possible.

I also appreciate the fact that I get to live out my dreams with him.

Through the years, we've had our days. Rough times, good times, bad times. And I am sure that in the years to come there with be more rough times, good times, and bad times. But at the end of the day, we still have each other. And I love that!

I love you, honey bunny!!

My BIG little boy...

2010-07-11T06:33:00.000-07:00

My little man turned 7 last month.

I am so proud of him. For so many reasons.

Gavin has come a long way in the past year. It really amazes me what a year makes.

He is so good with Molly. He is her protector. He has really stepped up to be the "big brother". I love watching him interact with her.

I love his energy. Each and every day, he wakes up (with a huge smile on his face!) and ponders what he is going to do that day. He lives each day to the absolute fullest!! He is our social butterfly. He has befriended every boy in the neighborhood and with his gentle spirit, has made sure that everyone gets to play. He ensures that no one is left out. Gotta love this kid!

His determination and his ability to focus has really transpired. He recently had swim lessons and he tried his best. Each and every lesson. He now looks forward to going to the lake so he can practice on the skills he has learned.

With baseball, his ambition really shows. He always asks that coach, "Can I be on first? Can I be on first?". He gets so fired up about baseball!

Going forward, I am excited to see what the next year will bring for BIG little boy.

Whatta sweet boy he is!

2010-07-05T09:59:00.000-07:00

With summer, comes many, many activities. Which is why I seriously haven't had time to blog.

We are enjoying summer to the absolute fullest with a jam packed agenda everyday. Mike and I both work full time. But in between work, we enjoy 4 baseballs games for the Gav man each week, one dance class, and swimming lessons. Not to mention my boy turned 7 on June 25th (more on this later, I guess)

The weekends are packed with some great memories with some fantastic friends full of camp fires, indulging of way too many smores, and days out at the lake. Somehow, grilling never seems to get old. Not to mention, my kids all have gills and LOVE the water.

We are yet to go on our summer vacation at the end of July, valleyfair, splashpad, movies, and more campfires!

There was one thing that brought me to blogging today. It is something that I have write down so I don't forget. It's a little something Gavin said.

While we were watching Maggie at dance class last week, this woman comes up to Molly and says, "Hi, Ruby!"

There is another little girl in our community with Down Syndrome. I corrected her by saying, "Oh, this is Miss Molly. Ruby and Molly do look a lot alike".

Gavin was confused. He wanted to know why that woman called Molly "Ruby." (Gav has never met Ruby so he didn't know who she was talking about)

I told Gavin, "well, she is another little girl that has Down Syndrome"

Gavin asks, "What's Down Syndrome?"

Thought to myself "Mmmmmm....what is DS? Does he really not know what that is? He has to know! After all, Molly is almost 4! Do we not use that term at home, really?..."

Gav interrupts my thought and says, "Ooooh, Ruby is cute and nice, just like Molly?"

Yes, Gav. That is what Down Syndrome is!

Yup, she did it again!

2010-06-02T21:10:00.002-07:00

Editors Note: The photos that go with this post are in the post right before this one. Couldn't do it any other way.

Continue......

Oh. Miss Molly has done it again!

The grad party we were at this weekend had this wonderful PURPLE cake (the schools colors) and the very second and I mean the VERY SECOND Molly saw that cake, she was diggin' in it!!!!!

There was NO stopping her. It was sooo quick, I didn't have a chance to stop those short little fingers from diggin'!!

What can I say, my Molly has a sweet tooth and she will stop at nothing to get it.

Good Golly Miss Molly!

2010-06-02T21:10:00.001-07:00

Click here to view these pictures larger

Hot Shot

2010-06-01T16:01:00.000-07:00

Austin's activity of choice is skateboarding (Soccer to resume this summer).

While skimming through my facebook friends today, I saw these awesome pics of Austin skateboarding. I do not know when they were taken or who took them. I don't dare ask him in fear he just MIGHT read my blog.

You see, I have strict orders to keep any and all pictures of him away from the blog, and if he knows I know about these, he would realize that they will go up on the blog)

Anyway, I was impressed with his skateboarding "tricks".

My Cave Monkey!

2010-05-29T09:09:00.001-07:00

Oh, that Molly. Little Miss Molly always seems to find trouble these days!

This morning, while spending time with my mom dearest at the farm, we were gathering wood for the Bonfire that is to occur later tonight with some friends bacl at the homested.

Next to the wood pile is a tractor shed where Maggie, Molly, and Gavin were frolicking.

They come out of the shed looking composed, for the most part. I had just put sunscreen on the kids so a little bit of dirt was sticking to Gav and Mag's faces and arms. And then there was Miss Molly.....

She looks like a cave monkey!! How did she get soooo stinkin' dirty?!

Oh, Molly. You keep me soo busy.

Off to the bathtub. Can't possibly bring her to Wal-Mart looking this way!!

A few of my favorite things

2010-05-24T05:48:00.000-07:00

Each of my kids have different "loves". Going through my camera yesterday, I realized that I captured a little bit of each of them.

The Gav man. Notice the remote control on his chest--hee! hee! (His favorite is Star Wars. All the neighborhood boys come over to play. They all are such a hoot to watch!)
"Yeah hoo! I beat the level!!" This kid is all about drama.

And then there's Miss Molly Kate. Oh, my dear Molly. She can be so mischievous! Here she is pushing the button for the PS3. Great skill, I know but then she will "lose" whatever DVD or game is in there at the time and it takes forever to find it again. We try very hard to remove whatever movie we are watching or game we are playing but sometimes we forget to take this extra step. Stinker!

I must say this is the MOST frustrating thing she does. About 1, 2, or 3 times a day (maybe more, depending on her mood), she throws out all of the DVD's in the entertainment center. We could put them up or away but seriously! She needs to learn NO!! Naughty little girl, Molly!

Sweet Mag Pie, swinging on grandma's swing at the farm. She would spend hours on this if we let her (and for the most part, we do!)

Ahhh, at last. The teenager. The picture says it all, don't ya think?? Rough life.

They've Captured My Heart...

2010-05-22T19:45:00.000-07:00

There are two girls, each sporting that extra chromosome that have captured my heart. They are almost exactly one year apart. Both living in Eastern Europe. For now. But not for long.

The story goes something like this: It starts with two blogging friends, Michelle and Tracy. We both have a teenager. The same age.

We then, married the man of our dreams and both had a boy. The same age.

Then we both had twin girls. 6 months apart. I had fraternal girls; one with DS and one without. Michelle had identical twins both with DS. Lydia and Ruby.

Then, at the same time, we pursued adoption of a little girl named, Lera. For whatever reason, we were blessed enough to be "picked" to be her parents.

You see, without knowing it, we were both trying to save Lera. But because I knew that we were in "competition" with this anonymous family, we looked further and decided, if it came to it, that we would pursue Lilya. A fraternal twin abandoned at birth for having DS.

So it was: Tracy and Mike were adopting Lera. Michelle and Brian were adopting Lilya.

We talked and dreamed of getting all the girls together once they were home. I could hardly wait!

Then He had other plans for Lera. For reasons beyond our control and understanding, we had to release Lera. She found another family. Whom, for their own reasons, also had to release Lera.

Poor Lera. I could NOT stop thinking and praying about sweet Lera. She deserves a loving family to call her own. She has lived way too long in an orphanage. So beautiful. So smart. So amazing. Yet I felt so much dispare for her.

Then her NEW FAMILY came to save her. I feel in my heart that this was it for sweet baby Lera!!!!!! In the end, she will only live a little over 3 hours from Lily instead of almost 6 hours. What are the odds??

This is Lera at 3 years old (on the right) and then 4 years old (on the left) . How beautiful is she??? I mean Really??? I can hardly stand it!!

So, while I was forced to give up the dream of being Lera's forever mommy, Michelle ventured on. She continued with her paper pregnancy to bring Lilyia home. And succeeded. So excited for her. I can't even tell you how excited I am!

Michelle and Brian are in Eastern Europe right now making things official to bring Lilya home to the US!!

Lilya with her forever Mommy!! It brings tears to my eyes! I just love her sooo much! (Both Michelle AND Lilya!)

This is Lylia's File picture...So beautiful!!

While this is all so bittersweet for me, I know that He is providing for these stinkin' precious girls. I can hardly stand to wait to see both of these girls home. With their forever families.

I din't expect this reaction...

2010-05-22T09:44:00.001-07:00

I heard about this show, "What would you do?" all over facebook and the Internet this week and I just got around to watching this. Right now I have tears of I don't know what streaming down my face!!

I am angry and mostly frustrated with society and that people really are this insensitive and rude. Even though these are all actors, I know that people really do say these things and will say these things about Molly and worst of all TO Molly.

I am somewhat shocked at my reaction to this video. I mean, I know it happens but dang! To hear it...I just didn't expect to feel this way. Wow.

All I can say is that it sucks. This feeling sucks. And to know that Molly will feel this way sucks.

Dang!!

Maggie's language

2010-05-13T13:33:00.000-07:00

Maggie and I had just dropped Molly off in her classroom when the princiapl started the morning announcements over the PA system.

Once he was done, a student, speaking spanish started speaking.

Maggie had a confused look on her face. I explained to her that there are English speaking students and Spanish speaking students so they need to speak in both so everyone can understand.

I asked her what language she spoke. She was so quick to answer...

"DORA!"

Lil' Miss Independent!

2010-05-11T14:03:00.000-07:00

Mags wanted to go with her mama to the grocery store. The only problem was that she was wearing nothing less than her tutu (of course!) and it was a wee bit cold outside (In MN? Shocker!) so I had her go up to her room and get some warm (and appropriate) clothes on,

She came back with this....

Such a colorful little girl! "It matches, mama!"

Mike says, "you are not letting her go to the store like that are you?"

You betcha I did! With her Dorothy shoes and all.

Sweet Ella Grace

2010-05-10T08:21:00.000-07:00

It happens in an instant. Your life is turned upside down.

That is exactly what happened to Sweet Ella Grace and her family. She went in for routine blood work and in an instant everything changed.

Femeral lines. Broviacs. Bone aspiration. Lab work. Pokes. Pokes. Pokes. Endless pokes, it seems. Poor sweet baby girl.

It's what I fear the most. Leukemia. Everyday Molly is pale or has what I imagine to be petichiae, I have to "prep" myself. Realistic or not, it's what I do.

I don't take life for granted. Watching Ella Grace and her family go through this is why I don't and can't. I have constant reminders to NOT take life or my families health for granted.

Because it can change in an instant.

Head over to Ella's blog and show them some love and leave a comment to let them know you are praying for Sweet Ella Grace.

Love a Nurse!

2010-05-08T07:41:00.000-07:00

"Right now there is a nurse helping a woman
become a mom, a nurse holding the hand of a dying man, a nurse
inserting an IV in a child, a nurse listening to an Alzheimer patient
tell a story of long ago, a nurse missing their family while caring for
yours. In the minute it took you to read this nurses all over the world
are saving lives."

This past week, it was Nurses Week. I love being a nurse. I love making a difference in the life of a preemie or child. The rewards are endless. If and when I can't be at home with the fam, there is no other place I would rather be.

Just to share, my two favorite nurses:

Meridith Ann, My partner in crime!

Kristin, THE OA!! (J/K, Kristin!)

Just to show that nurses can and do have fun!!

**No babies were used in making of this post!**

Waiting...

2010-05-07T00:55:00.000-07:00

I am an impatient person. More so than the average person. If I want something, I want it NOW and on cue. Anyone who knows me, knows that this is not one of my most desirable attributes. None the less, God did not bless me with patience.

Well, I know that He knew what He was doing when He blessed my family with Molly. Forget about the RIGHT NOW. Seriously, just forget about it. When you have a child with Down Syndrome, you have no choice but to wait. Are you kidding me? You want ME to wait?

Ha! I'll show you! My child with DS was going to walk at 15 months, talk at 3 years, and definately potty trained by three. Hands Down. She will be stubborn like her mama. She can do it and she WILL do it.

Nope. Didn't happen. Molly walked at 26 months, is starting to use 2-3 word sentences and is yet to pee in the toilet.

Patience, Mama. Patience.

Molly has learned to run. And FAST. Dang, that girl can move! She can open up that front door, scoot down the front steps and be half way to the park before I can catch her!

I waited a looooong time for this but golly gee. She has mastered RUNNNING!!

You go, girl!!

I'm so proud.!

Sisters together

2010-05-06T17:38:00.001-07:00

Sisters. It really is an amazing bond.

Twins. Now that is even a more amazing bond.

My twin daughters just love each others company so much. It doesn't matter that one of them is sporting an extra chromosome. Really. They just love. each. other.

I enjoy watching them interact more and more together each and every day. It warms my heart.

Bonded for life...

A Visit with Rachel

2010-05-03T07:52:00.000-07:00

Rachel, the founder of Signing Time, was here last week and put on an hour long performance.

She was amazing. She is such a genuine, sweet person and really truly cares about and loves what she does. Molly went crazy and was dancin' like no one was watching. At the end of each song, she would yell out, "Yaaaaa!" with her hands in the air. It was pretty cute. Maggie knew a lot of the signs and songs and she signed and sung away like the big girl she is.

One observation I made was that there was quite a few children with Down Syndrome there. Not surprising as sign language is the main language for the down syndrome child in their early years when they are not able to form words with their mouths.

Rachel and her Baby Signing Time was a God send when Molly was younger. The videos made it fun to learn. Molly's teachers and para's at school use a lot of sign language with her and thanks to this series of video's, Molly understands and follows the directions given in sign language.

At the end of the show, we were able to meet Rachel and take a couple of pictures with her. I have a crappy camera as my good one is not working so they are not the best quality.

We purchased a couple of the next series DVD's and had her sign them

Our Couples Retreat

2010-05-01T18:43:00.000-07:00

OK-I am back. At least for now. To continue my last post....

I am not one to spend money on a vacation. We go somewhere as a family once a year and a water park here and there with other families but I have a hard time spending money on vacation and do it because I do realize how important it is to get away.

Sounds odd but that money can be used for better meal choices, buying the kids better quality designer clothes (I love clothes shopping for all my kids), and mainly to help payoff debt faster. I fI have extra money, I would rather put it towards a medical bill. I know, odd, but true.

But this time, this vacation was NEEDED. It was NECESSARY. If I needed anything in my life, it was this. After our failed adoption and long, cold, and snowy winter, working (more than) full time, I KNEW I had to take a break or I was afraid I might break. Mike and I needed to regroup. Reconnect. I don't leave home without my kids very often but this time, I truly looked forward to going away with my dear husband and close friends that we have promise for years that we would go on vacation with.

We have family that own a condo on Fort Myers Beach so the lodging was not an issue. We found round trip tickets for practically nothing. So I really couldn't pass up this opportunity; regardless of the summer clothes that still needed to be bought or the debt that we have incurred. We. Had. To. Get. Away!!!!

Really, the condo is my home away from home. It was relaxing, refreshing, and energizing!!!

We slept past 8am everyday (unheard of around here), went to lunch when we wanted, went to the beach when we wanted, and slept when we wanted. We didn't have a care in the world. No laundry to fold, no emails to return, no baths to do, no floors to scrub. Ahhhh.....it was like heaven on earth. The scenes were breathtaking. The night life included listening to live acoustic bands on the beach each night. We rented a boat and took it out to Captiva Island and basked in the sun for hours and just enjoyed our own private beach AKA paradise!!!

This trip changed my views of vacation (and how I view my psychological well being). Is is money WELL SPENT!!! What have I been missing?? I have been down to the condo without the kids but never felt so refreshed before.

We cannot wait to take the kids down there! All the kids playing on the beach and eating ice cream in time square watching the sunset is something my kids MUST experience!

And we also hope to get away together every couple of years as well as that was so necessary to vacation with just the two of us....

Return from Paradise

2010-04-22T08:35:00.000-07:00

After our long and emotionally draining winter that Mike and I had, we just knew that in order to "regroup" and "re energize" we had to get away.

Mike's parents own a condo on Fort Myers Beach and we got super cheap airline tickets so off we went.

We are so blessed that Mike's dad and my mom agreed to watch the kids so we could do just that.

Watching the kids, house, and two dogs is no easy task. This we know. I loved the fact that the kids were just as excited to spend time with their grandparents as we were to get away.

The homecoming was awesome!! To come home to my sweet kids was so nice. It was worth leaving paradise. Because you know, for a while there, I wasn't sure I wanted to come back. Vacation never seems long enough.

We got it late, late last night so we went right to bed.

I woke up to Molly's voice. I went in and took her out of her crib and she gave me the BIGGEST hug ever. Then she realized that since mommy was there, daddy is there so she took off running to our bedroom yelling, "Daddy! Daddy! Hi, daddy!". By the time I got in there, she was snuggling her daddy, rubbing his scruff. Like always. Ahhhh....

Maggie and Gavin followed. Big hugs and kisses and more hugs!

Austin is 15. Not sure how many hugs I will get out of him when he gets home.

The Siblings Of Down Syndrome

2010-04-14T21:32:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, Mike and I had to honor of attending the regional down syndrome conference. For the most part, it was fabulous. Some sessions were better than others and learned a lot about the "little" things and some about the big things.

But one particular session really touched me.

It was a panel of three young adults that grew up with a sibling that has down syndrome and they told their story. Their view of what life was like growing up with a sibling that had Down Syndrome.

Some of it put a smile on my face. Some of it made me shed a tear. Feelings of anger, fear, joy, hope, and excitement were all felt during that 45 minutes.

It really made me think about Maggie, Gavin, and Austin and what this means to them.

It's not that I haven't thought about it because I have. Especially for Maggie. My worst fear when they were newborns was that the world would make fun of the fact that her twin sister was a....well you know. I vowed to change the thinking of the world.

During the three speeches, I heard the following:

Embarrassment: With their inappropriate behavior. The mere fact that they had DS

Jealousy: The sib with DS was "Mr. Popular" and he felt like he was in the shadow of his brother

Fear: Of having a child of their own with DS. Fear that they would have to care for the child when mom and dad were gone.

Resentment: Certain things had to be altered or changed in their life because of the child with DS
Frustration: Inability to communicate fully and appropriately

I guess I was in denial. I was denying the fact that Molly's siblings may feel these not so good feelings because of her. I feel that I am more aware of these emotions now.

They are all normal and I really appreciated hearing it first hand from someone who has lived it.

At the end of the day, they all embraced the "challenge" (their words, not mine) of having a sibling with Down Syndrome.

One statement made me cry (because it is so true) "Having Jake opened my eyes to a world that I wouldn't have otherwise known".

Help Get Freddie Home!

2010-04-09T19:40:00.000-07:00

Let's talk about Freddie.

Freddie is sittin' in an orphanage in Eastern Europe somewhere. It's all so secretive and I really have no idea where he is but what I do know is where is GOING.

He is going to a loving family; The Shupps. Right here in America. What a great gift this family is giving this boy. Oh, he has no idea what a great life he is going to have.

Everyone that reads my blog knows that I have a passion for DS orphans, right? Well Lyndi adopted a little boy with DS last year that they named Patrick. Lyndi's blog was one of my favorite "post adoption" blogs as she really talked truthfully about life with Patrick.

Patrick has truly thrived in his new home and I have enjoyed watching the journey. Did I mentioned how darling this little boy is? Sooo stinkin' cute!

Now, they have been called to adopt this sweet 15 year old boy who really needs to come home.

They will be set to travel soon and are still in need of funds to complete the adoption.

So, please, if your heart and pocket book allow, donate to their fund.

Heck, skip two lattes this week and give that money to Freddie. He needs it more. Really.

Ready to help? Just click HERE and he will guide you to where you need to go.

For the love of ((Chinese)) food

2010-04-08T18:50:00.000-07:00

It drives my hubs crazy when I use the word, "seriously" but...

Seriously! Have you ever known a three year to have a love for Sesame Chicken and Rice?

Seriously?!

Chinese food is a rare find around here and that is what makes this so crazy!

Mike will stop and get himself some Chinese on the way home if he works late and we have already eaten. Every. So. Often.

Maggie's eyes widen every time she sees the box.

It makes her day to indulge in some good 'ol finger lickin' good Sesame Chicken with white rice!

Seriously, it cracks me up!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-07T00:34:00.000-07:00

A thought on Easter Sunday

2010-04-04T00:44:00.000-07:00

"We don't have to have it all together or keep up with someone else's priorities -- we can find beauty and peace living the life God intended for us. Our life might look a little messier or less "put together" than our neighbors, but we can find fulfillment in being authentic and true to who we really are. Let yourself ...discover and develop the passions God gave you" (Author unknown)

May you all have a blessed Easter♥

The Dental Visit

2010-04-03T09:06:00.001-07:00

This past week, the ladies had their second dental visit of their short little lives. The first one was not so good for Molly. And Maggie did great. This time, however, not so much. God forbid we would have consistency in our lives. They are always throwing me for a loop.

The hygienist said that Molly was first. I figured that would be perfect since she was the one that had the hard time the first time around. Maggie was standing there so proud of being a "big girl" and she was going the "let" Molly go first.

Molly did fabulous! She bucked a little, like she always does but allowed the dentist to count all of her teeth and polish them. She even let her paint fluoride on her teeth!

Like I said, she did get a little bucky screaming, "oweeeee! oweeeee!" which is her interpretation on "No, I don't want to do it!" And well, OK, a little bit of mommy restraints had to be enforced. But in the end, we had accomplished our goal.

Now it was Maggie's turn.

I put Molly down and looked over at my "big girl" whom was smiling and so proud just 5 minutes earlier.

You see, I didn't think about the fact that Maggie just got done watching her sister's drama.

Poor Mag Pie. She was shaking in fear, with silent tears falling down her precious cheeks, and when I went to pick her up, I felt her heart just raising! Oh, I felt so bad. Talk about a toddler anxiety/panic attack!

I couldn't put her through it. I just couldn't! After watching her twin scream "oweee!" and buck the dentist, I knew there was NO WAY Maggie would sit in that chair. She had her teeth clenched so tight, there was no way in !@#$ we were gettin' in.

So we left. We will try it again in a month. She can go with her big brother, Austin, and see how easy it really is.

Note to self: ALWAYS have Maggie go first

Looking back...

2010-04-01T10:26:00.000-07:00

This morning, I came home to find Miss Molly Kate watching Dora in my bedroom.

I asked Molly (like I do all the time, all day long) what she is doing. She responded with,

"Watchin' ma show, mama!"

Note to self: Never underestimate Molly! NEVER! The words are in there--just laying dormant until she is ready to surprise the snot out of me!

The first year of her life, the song Wonder by Natalie Merchant was my theme song. It is such an uplifting song for families with a child with DS. I loved it so much that I created a video of her first year and half to promote her very first Buddy Walk.

As with any song, not all of the lyrics fit but most did.

"People see me

I'm a challenge to your balance

I'm over your heads

How I confound you and astound you

To know I must be one of the wonders

Of god's own creation

And as far as you can see you can offer me

No explanation

O, I believe

Fate smiled and destiny

Laughed as she came to my cradle

Know this child will be able

Laughed as she came to my mother

Know this child will not suffer

Laughed as my body she lifted

Know this child will be gifted

With love, with patience and with faith

She'll make her way"

Three and a half years later, Miss Molly

Is definitely able.
Has definitely not suffered
Is definitely gifted
And has DEFINITELY made her way

Love her...

...and he's off

2010-03-29T09:40:00.000-07:00

You know, I have been warned time and time again to watch out as the kids grow up so fast. Zippity do. There they go. Gonzo.

My big boy is 15 years old. Seriously? He is FIFTEEN!! FIFTEEN??

He was just my baby.

He took is permit test last month and has been driving ever since. I get whiplash when we are out practicing but overall he does a great job. Just another milestone for Austin. Regardless if I am ready for it or not.

I have never had to worry about him. He has always done well in school and he is a good kid. I couldn't ask for more.

Sharing the Happiness and Love

2010-03-26T17:52:00.001-07:00

Here are the rules for the award:
1. Copy and paste the award on your blog.
2. Name the person who gave the award to you and link to their blog (or hyperlink).
3. List 10 things that make you happy.
4. Pass the award on to other bloggers and visit their blogs to let them know.

I received this blog award from Rebekah over at Dusting Myself Off. Clever name--I love it! Rebekah blogs about life as an extremely busy woman whom is newly wed, moving, and facing the challenge of interviewing to seek that perfect job. So head over and say HI.

What a great award. It reminds us that life is great and we need to remain positive and happy through the journey of life.

10 Things that make me oh so HAPPY, HAPPY, HAPPY...

10) Coffee and vanilla creamer. Coffee in the morning. Coffee in the afternoon. Oh, and soooo defiantly coffee at night!! Coffee and creamer is a must have in my house. If it's out, watch out baby!!!

9) The hubs. Yes, my adorable husband makes me oh so happy. Not all of the time, of course, but most of the time. I love how he can make me laugh when I am tired, stressed, or crabby. He can so easily recognize that and change my sour mood in a minute.

8) My planner. Mer and K have finally convinced me that I need one of these and it truly makes me happy as I have a lot less "no-shows" in 2010 and feel like an adult.

7) The morning spring air.

6) Summer bon fires in the backyard, making smores and memories with friends, neighbors, and the kids.

5) The beach. More specifically, Fort Myers Beach. Funny how that place keeps coming up? The sunsets are breathtaking. The night life is so fun. The sand, the shopping, breakfast at the waffle house, well....really, everything about that place makes me happy

4) Vacation. See Number 5

3) It is a no brainer but my kids. Yup, they make me happy. It wouldn't be a list if I didn't include them.

2) A clean house. While this is a rare occurrence around here, I just want it to be known that I am happy when it is for, ummm, 10 minutes and will be happy 15 years from now when my house will be clean and STAY clean for longer than 10 minutes.

1) God.

Since this is a happy post, I want to include some of my favorite bloggers to share in the love.

Kristin over at Life Is What You Make It.
Kristin is one of the greatest friends one could ever have or ask for.

Mer over at The Wulf Family Update
Mer and I=The A team baby!! She shows me everyday what a great friend, mother, coworker, and wife she really is. She is an amazing person.

Becca over at The Bates Motel
Becca and I share genetically enhance children. Her blog is one of the first DS blogs I found and I can't get enough of her gorgeous daughter, Sammy and all of her positive posts on what it is really like to have a child with DS.

Michelle over at The Zoromski Chronicles
Michelle is my sister in the blog world. She has been my #1 supporter through the failed adoption process and is one amazing mama and friend. She is also very soon going to meet her daughter in Eastern Europe

Stephanie over at Daily Smiles
Steph is one of those people that you can't help but smile when you read her posts on her blog. She is also someone that I don't think I could live without.

Jeana over at Feisty Kaelyn
Jeana is an amazing mom to a child with DS. She represents what life is all about. Sweet Kaelyn has had her share of downfalls in her short life but her mommy and daddy has made it so positive and uplifting. She shows us all what real love and hope is all about. Her blog is an inspiration to everyone that follows.

Total Sweetness

2010-03-25T17:49:00.000-07:00

She is always such a happy girl

Molly's Corner

2010-03-22T09:52:00.001-07:00

I missed World Down Syndrome yesterday in the blog land. But I didn't forget about it. I was at work and got the privileged of working with a 4 year old with DS and boy was she the cutest and sweetest thing ever! Ahhh....I love those DS kids.

One of my co-workers reminded me that it was "Molly Day". How sweet of her to remember my lovey.

For those unfamiliar, March 21st each year is reserved for all the special people in the world that have DS. The date 3-21 represents THREE 21st chromosomes which is what creates DS.

It is a great day to have some Molly talk.

Her receptive language is developing at an amazing pace.

Receptive language is the comprehension of language - listening and understanding what is communicated. Another way to view it is as the receiving aspect of language. It involves being attentive to what is said, the ability to comprehend the message, the speed of processing the message, and concentrating on the message. Receptive language includes understanding figurative language, as well as literal language. Receptive language includes being able to follow a series of commands.

Her team at school is amazed at her ability to process what is being asked. She hasn't always been good at following directions. Now, she can independently go and wash her hands a face, sit down for snack and lunch, walk to speech and DAPE (a Molly version of Phy Ed) all on her own and sit down and read a book and interpret the story. Love it!

And my favorite piece to her language development is her expressive language. This is the ability to SPEAK the words she is thinking.

New words are just spilling out of her cute little mouth daily.

She LOVES to read. I have ditched the animal books because she is so disruptive with them. She'll sit there a say, "Duck--Kack", "Cow-moooooooo! mooooooo!" etc and we can't get through the story.

She is really starting to mimic the words of the book. Last night she said, "money" clear as day.

I will have to start putting up video on the blog of her saying all these new words so I have something to go on and to follow as she progresses.

I am so proud of Molly and all that she is able to learn along with all the kids with Down Syndrome. They all are amazing kids, don't you think?

A reminder to all

2010-03-17T19:18:00.000-07:00

Life in the fast lane. That's how we all live. I really wish it wasn't that way but that is how we are. The fast pace lifestyle that we all live is bound to catch up with us at some point.

There are things that happen in our lives that reminds us to check ourselves at the door. To remind us of what is important in life. One of my closest friend Kristin over at Life is What you Make it puts all of this into perspective. Once again.

Her husband has Type One diabetes and he recently discovered that his kidney's are less than optimal. He will eventually need to undergo dialysis or a kidney transplant. This is a very scary situation for her and reality has slapped her and her family in the face about what the future holds. For their marriage and for their family.

With that said, Mike and I try to have date night once a week. After all, it was me and him (and well, Austin if you must get technical) before the kids that we share together came along. Lately, date night has become more like one or twice a month. A strong marriage is what holds a family together and while, at times, this may seem like a difficult task, it's one that needs to be maintained. For the most part, we succeed.

We have our good days and bad days like everyone else. But at the end of the day, I know that I have him to lean on, to talk to, and to help me through whatever it is that I need help with. Without him, life just wouldn't seem whole.

Recently, I have been accused of not responding to and addressing an email quick enough, not wishing someone a happy birthday in a timely manner, for not returning a phone call, and not showing up to a social event.

Life with four kids, having a husband that I need to be there for, and working full time does not always allow me to be the greatest communicator and social commentator. And for that, I am sorry.

But I must live my life so I have no regrets.

I must always maintain that my family comes first and foremost.

So an email may go unanswered, a birthday wish may go unnoticed, a phone may not be returned, and a social event may be missed.

But at the end of the day, I know that I have done what is most important. I may not get to everything that needs to be done and addressed, but my kids are happy, the hubs is happy and I am happy and THAT is what is most important.

My St Patty's Birthday Boy

2010-03-17T14:13:00.000-07:00

Today, my charming husband turns thrity-something!

A few things that I love and facts about the man I married...

He is the only cook in our house. He makes the family dinner each and every night. He loves, loves, loves, to cook and if there was money in it, he would have been a chef.

He is also the only one that does the grocery shopping

He is even more senstive and caring than he was the day I married him

Enjoys each and every one of the kids for their own unique qualities and interests:

Austin: They "talk" shop, cars and politics

Gavin: Plays the PS2 together and watch "Dirty Jobs", "Myth Busters" and "How it's Made" (I love listening to the conversations that come up during these shows)

Maggie: They "hang" together. Where daddy goes, Maggie goes. Whether it be a 4-wheeler ride, walk, or trip to the grocery store, Maggie is always in tow

Molly: She loves to snuggle her daddy. She will spend hours laying next to daddy on the couch rubbing his scruff and sucking her cute little tongue

He went to private Catholic school from Kindergarten through 12th grade which helped mold him into the man he is today

Can do one mean dance to "Billy Jean" by Michael Jackson

Had braces and now has the best smile EVER!! (I love teeth! I always had to date a guy with "nice teeth". Just one of my weird requirements of dating)

Thoroughly enjoys planes, trains, and automobiles!

His favorite shows are The Office and Seinfeld. Each night before bed, he winds down by watching re-runs on Tivo. Over and over.

His favorite place on earth is Fort Myers Beach (well, next to home, of course)

Hind site is 20/20

2010-03-14T15:24:00.000-07:00

Oh, my six year old has so much spunk to him! It's a blessing and a curse all at the same time.

Gavin is in the first grade and it has been a somewhat challenging year for him. He is a "young" first grader as his birthday is in June. I really wanted to hold him back but I gave into peer pressure. I am not usually so easily persuaded and now I wish I would have stuck to my guns.

Hind site is 20/20.

He is doing well in school. Academically. He does well in math and holds his own in reading.

By the end of the year, he will be required to know 200 words, count to 1000, tell time on a regular clock, count money, and do some simple algebra. Seriously, he needs to know what we did by the end of THIRD grade. I am wondering if he will be doing Geometry in fifth grade.

It's the behavioral aspect that he struggles with. The word "ADD" has been thrown out there in the past couple of months. Not sure if I totally agree with it or if it is just his immaturity. I can't help but to wonder if those words would be spoken if we had held him back.

Hind site is 20/20.

We will make it work. We always do. We are trying some behavioral modifications to start with and see where we go.

Everyone told me that if I held him back, I would have to regrets but if we sent him, we may do just that. Regret.

Hind Site is 20/20.

I just love this little boys spirit and energy for life!

(Note: Gavin is not performing obscene gestures here. He giving you the peace sign with his winter gloves on!)

My Color Bug

2010-03-12T09:23:00.000-08:00

After our last mishap with Miss Thing, we needed to take control of the situation. Now she gets just ONE crayon and she must work at the table. Once she leaves the table, the crayon is mine. She looooooves to color! She gets so excited and I love to watch her do it. Just look at those great circles! You go girl!

"Look what I did, mama!"
(We are getting her eye "fixed" at the end of the month!)

...Concentration is the key

Mommy Loves the tongue!

"All done! Doesn't it look great?!"

The Spot Bot Rescue!

2010-03-11T11:51:00.000-08:00

So, let's just say that having four kids and two nice sized dogs, does a number on the flooring of our house. Especially the carpet!

We moved into a house that has hardwood flooring. Cheap hardwood, BTW. The other day, Gavin came home with soaking wet snow pants and took them off by the front door. Right where he should, right? Wrong. The flooring is now bubbled. Are you kidding me? We must get ceramic tile soon. Very soon.

Onto the carpet. Our family/living room is connected to the dining room and kitchen. It's all open and that is what I really wanted in a house. Until now. The kids are constently "sneaking" into the living room with their drinks and snacks. Drives me crazy!

We used to have a Spot Bot but we killed it. We got our $100 worth, that is for sure. It broke about 2 months ago and oh, how I have missed it. Using Resolve and wiping up the messes just grosses me out! I want it sucked up and out of the carpet.

I've been dying here, people! I am disgusted at the site of our carpet with the residual ketsup that Molly flicked off her chicken nugget and onto the carpet (because, remember, they are right next to each other!), the Valentine kisses and choclolate bars, the sippy that "leaked" as it was thrown on the floor on the way through the living room. The occational dog puke--yup! Totally gross!

So, I marched my butt right to Target yesterday and replaced it. Got myself a new one!

Awww...life is good again!

The Sweet Ballarina

2010-03-09T16:56:00.001-08:00

When we found out we were expecting twins and their heartbeats at 9 weeks were in the 180's, we thought for sure we would be having two more boys. For. Sure.

There were nine grand boys between the two sides of the family and ONE, just ONE girl. So our odds were with the boys. For. Sure.

The twenty week ultrasound. The tech told us baby A was a girl. Mmmmm. Mike and I just looked at each other in disbelief. Mike says, "Baby B just has to be a boy". Not that we didn't want two baby girls, we just thought, well, you know, that we were (for sure) going to have a bouncing baby boy or two (and the TWO was now out of the equation). It's pretty evident that Baby B was a girl.

Needless to say, we were pretty freaked out at the thought of having two girls. Excitement quickly overwhelmed us as we prepared for the arrival of the queen and princess.

Fast forward three years. Oh, have they been soooooo different than our boys. In every single aspect. Their mannerisms, their moods, their imaginative play. It's all night and day. It's a woman's (baby girls) intuition to mother their babies. There are a gazillion baby dolls in this house, doll houses, doll clothes, you name it. We've got it. They love to play dress up and put on lip gloss. Especially the flavored kind.

But this new dancing thing they do is just the absolute sweetest. It is by far, the funnest part of having girls thus far. They get dressed up in their tutu's and dance all through the house.

I admit it, Maggie pretty much lives in hers. Day after day. I don't care so much as it is just so stinkin' cute!

Mommy's "dream" Job

2010-03-08T09:07:00.000-08:00

World Down Syndrome Day is coming up on March 21st. I felt this post was appropriate to honor this day.

A few friends from work and I were discussing what we would do with a million dollars or lottery winnings. Mostly if we would quite working as NICU nurses. For the most part, there is huge job satisfaction and retention in the Neonatal Intensive Care Units across the nation. So really, I can see people continuing to at least "keep their foot in the door" and continue to do what they love.

While I love my work, there is something that I love more. Yes, you all know what that is: DOWN SYNDROME

First off, I need to play the lottery in order to win the lottery. So I guess I can start there.

Secondly, once I have secured my winnings, I would not pay off my bills (OK, that is a lie, yes I would!) but I would build a daycare for children with Down Syndrome from birth to 5 years. I already have two helpers, one of them being Cory that already works with Down Syndrome adults. I know a lot of families that struggle with this. Where do they find good, quality daycare for their chromosomally enhanced child that fosters a healthy and educational environment? Well, at my daycare, of course!!

Oh, we would have soooo much fun! We would have Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy daily with the best therapist money can buy. Then we would have music and art. I also think that Baby Signing Time will be in there somewhere, too. Oh, and it would be FREE OF CHARGE! Yes, I would do it for free!

And that would be my dream job.

What can I say? If you're gonna dream, DREAM BIG!!!!

Now, I have to remember to buy that winning lottery ticket.

What Molly's Been Up To

2010-03-06T08:41:00.000-08:00

It's a good thing she's cute!!

I {{HEART}} It...

2010-03-05T16:41:00.000-08:00

When Molly surprises me and says "I wanna walk" clear as day!
When I ask the kids who wants something, Molly yells with her cute short little fingers in the air, "I do! I do, mama"
When Maggie and Gavin play house together and love and enjoy each others company
When my big boy Austin shows so much pride in himself with successfully passing his permit test and then correcting me when I disobey a traffic law.
When my husband calls me at work and asks my co-worker, "Is my beautiful bride available?"
When Gavin giggles and laughs until his belly hurts while watching, "Forrest Gump" (Parental Note: We only allowed him to watch certain, age appropriate parts)
When Maggie says a zillion times a day, "I Love You, Mama!"
When one of my greatest, dearest friend, Sheila who lives over 2 hours away calls me up and says she is going to drive up to take me to lunch. Just because. I love that woman!

That's all I wanted to say.

Can we 86 it??

2010-03-04T20:24:00.000-08:00

"Do they think I am retarded?"

"Stop acting like a retard!"

"That is so retarded!"

The definition of "retard" in the dictionary: "to make slow; delay the development or progress of (an action, process, etc.); hinder or impede".

Yes, that is Miss Molly and all of the other children with Down Syndrome. She doesn't learn as quickly as her twin sister or her brothers or her peers. She is slow to develop in language/expressive language and fine and gross motor.

But does this give you a right to use her as an example when someone or yourself does or says something STUPID? She doesn't know any better but YOU do!!!!

This topic is all over the DS blogging community so I really don't think I need to elaborate on it.

We have all said it. Yup, even me and Michael. But things are different for us now and let me tell you, if Gavin, Maggie, or Austin even thinks of using this word, there will be hell to pay.

It is, honestly, one of my greatest fears that, one day, Molly will hear this and be hurt. How can you hurt such a sweet baby girl? I mean, really. She will eventually know that society views her as "mentally retarded". I will not be the one to disclose this to her but I have no doubt that some insensitive child will.

So, I am not here to "order" us adults from using this word. Why? Because it was how we were raised. My mother, as great of a woman as she is, never scolded me for using such language.

What I am asking is that all that reads this, to teach your children that the word "retard" is a BAD word and it hurts. It will, one day, hurt my sweet, sweet, Molly. For for all the children blessed enough to have Down Syndrome, PLEASE teach your child right from wrong. PLEASE teach them to refrain from using the word retard.

Because it hurts.

The Baby Of The Family

2010-03-03T14:05:00.000-08:00

There is no doubt that Miss Molly truly is the "baby" of the family. She is transpiring into such a big girl (more on this in a later post) but none the less, she is the baby sister and gets treated as just that.

Gavin loves the fact that he has a little sister that he can tote around as his own and protects her. Maggie does the same with Molly.

But Gavin and Maggie. Well, that's a whole natha story. Those two fight, bicker, argue, and "compete" with one another as to who is smarter, better, or whatever. There is definitely tension between those two.

The other day, Molly was cracking Gavin and me up with her silly little actions and being just loving with her typical million kisses and "luv you, mamma's".

Gavin says, "Molly is so cute, mom! I don't remember Maggie being that cute at Molly's age!"

Yup. Molly is the baby of the family. Twin or not.

Getting back to where we were...

2010-02-28T12:06:00.000-08:00

...isn't all that easy. For those of you that do not know, as I know there are many, our adoption to bring a beautiful 4 year old girl with Down Syndrome from Russia fell through. We will not be bringing Lera home. I am elated that she has now found that "Forever Family". It will ease all of this...just a little.

Why this all happened and why God called us to her and then had to let her go is beyond our understanding. While, at the time, it did not seem fair to myself, my dear husband, and children whom grew to love her, or to Lera herself, I must remember that He knows what is for the best for all involved. OUR plan is not always HIS plan. I will, one day, understand why this all played out the way it did, but now, it just leaves us heartbroken and confused. Again, knowing that Lera will find herself in a loving and amazing home is really what this was all about and for that, I am thankful!

So much has happened in our family since I last blogged. I know that I need to get back to it and continue on with life with my amazing four children that I have been already given. They each are so amazing in their own way and I just love each and every day I have with them.

To close, I must tell you one sweet tidbit about Austin, my 15 year old.

With all teenagers, us mothers worry. We worry about them making the "right" choice, hanging with the "right" crowd and at the same time knowing that we are helpless as parents as they really seem to choose their own destiny, with our without their parents approval.

Austin is going through confirmation at church and he asked where his bible was. I had no idea where it was and thought he was just looking for it as we had confirmation class the next day.

He became, somewhat, upset at the fact that he couldn't find it so I asked him why it was so important that he find it right now. His comment to this blew me away....

"Because I want to learn about God and how to become a better person and what better way than through the bible!!"

Drama, Drama!

2010-01-18T09:20:00.001-08:00

This past New Years Eve was by far, was one of the most memorable New Years Eve I have ever experienced.

Mike and I decided to try a new water park that we hadn't experienced before. The name of the place shall remain anonymous. We loaded up the kids and headed out. We met my friend Kristin and Naomi up there with their families. It was going to be a fun time with good friends.

The water park was warm and inviting (I hate it when we go to a park and water is freezing and the kids want nothing to do with it!). The water slide was totally awesome with lights and music. The kids absolutely loved it! Miss Molly loved the kiddie water park. The arcade was a plus for the Gav man.

We ordered in room service and enjoyed the evening of New Years Eve in the room. Every last child managed to stay awake until 1am! That is amazing to me. You would think at least on of them would have fallen asleep.

Woke up and had another great, fun filled day at the water park. Enjoyed some more room service and just chilled. Then we went to bed....

Gavin woke up at midnight throwing up and didn't stop all night.
Taya woke up at 4am throwing up and didn't stop all night.
Chloe woke up at 4 am throwing up and didn't stop all night.
Ellie woke up at 7 am throwing up.

Walked out into the hallway to find that about half of the rooms on our floor had linens in the hallway. Turns out that a large number of children and a few adults were throwing up all night as well.

WHAT WAS GOING ON???

Asked the front desk staff (as the manager was "on vacation") to call the MN Dept of Health as there is definitely something going on here and even recommended that they shut the water park down until they can figure out what was making everyone sick. The answer we got from her was, "It's just the STOMACH FLU"! Are you kidding me??

So we left. In a hurry!!

Maggie got sick on the way home. The two daddy's that went with us got sick and ended up missing a day of work. Mike and I got sick and felt like garbage for the following two days. Really, the only person that did NOT get sick out of all of us (there were a total of 12 of us) was Kristin.

The following week, I did get in touch with the manager and she stated that the MN Dept of Health did indeed find a flu like bug living in several of the rooms. The water park was (surprisingly) free of this organism. It was only found in the rooms. They shut down for three days to clean and teach the cleaning staff the proper way to clean the rooms and ordered a new line of cleaning products.

We got a full refund. And a New Years that we will not soon forget.

Finally....

2010-01-03T16:32:00.000-08:00

Look at my big boy??!!! We "tricked" him into this picture~! I am sooo excited~!

This one may be blurry but Austin is all smiles!!

Extra shot with Gavin and Kooper snowmobiling~

It was a Winter Wonderland!

2009-12-27T15:26:00.000-08:00

We had Christmas at my parents farm yesterday and was just amazed at the beauty of the woods next to the farm!

It was so serene and just breathtaking!

These pictures really do not do it justice but I just had to put them up! We just had a big snow fall, which created a beautiful scene! Every single branch had the perfect amount of snow resting on it.

And just for fun, the farm house that I grew up in

My Giggle Bug!

2009-12-23T17:36:00.000-08:00

Wordless Wednesday

2009-12-23T01:30:00.000-08:00

Introducing the first Velander Wrestler!!

A MN Winter Tradition

2009-12-21T15:47:00.000-08:00

Each winter, usually after one of the first big snow falls, the kids build a fort/tunnel in the snow bank that the snow plow makes.

Uncle Jeremy (my bro) came over and helped.

Next up....SNOWMAN!!!

Our Santa Picture!

2009-12-16T17:07:00.000-08:00

I am not one to get the kids all dolled up in beautiful dresses and cute little sweaters with dress pants to go sit with Santa. We just go. As is. Nothing fancy.

So, we decide to go see Santa this year. Our trip to see the great man goes something like this:

Austin is complaining (like a 15 year would do) that he is much too old for this and laughs when he sees the picture reflecting that he is bigger than Santa. LOL!
Gavin is running up to Santa and jumps on his lap (like a 6 year old would do!) and blurts out that all he wants for Christmas is a Nerf Gun.
Maggie turns to stone (Like a 3 year Maggie would do!) and stands there completely stiff and scared out of her mind. Happens whenever a camera comes near her.
Molly. Well, she was trying to pull on Santa's beard and figure him out. No worries, no requests, no problem.

Until next year....

Catching Up

2009-12-04T18:15:00.000-08:00

I have been a bad, bad blogger. Oh, yes. I have been busy.

Between working, drowning in adoption paper work, and fundraising, I barely find the time to sleep. Yet, so much has happened here.

I met with Molly's team this past week to review her IEP. They just lover her. They gave me a lot of insight as to how she is doing. She struggles with ball handling and she likes to plop her butt down when she finds something challenging. She is still much too cautious on uneven surfaces. She is progressing beautifully in fine motor. She is able to color and draw in a straight line and circle. She can cut, with assistance.

I have noticed an influx in her verbal skills since she started school. She is much more indenpendant now. Potty training is still a big fat NOTHING!! Nope. Not interested. Nada. Oh, well.

Maggie has adjusted quite well to the one on one love she now has with mommy while her twin sister is in school. We do fun things together while the rest of the clan is at school. And if I have to work, she enjoys playing with "Maggie's Kitty" at daycare.

Then there is Bug-A-Boo! He is doing well in the First Grade. He plans on being a wrestler this winter--more to come on this. He is a great wrestler. He will do well.

He is such a kind hearted little boy. The othe day, while my stress level was at it's high, he came up to me and showed me a picture he had drawn. I asked him to tell me about this picture and he says, "This is our house, and this is me and Lera, my new sister". Oh, my heart just melted.

I know I don't blog a lot about Austin too often. He keeps to himself and refuses to pose for any picture for fear it will end up on the blog--lol!

Where's Molly??

2009-11-23T18:42:00.000-08:00

Tonight Molly and I were upstairs, and while I was putting away oodles and oodles of laundry, Molly ran around playing and talking and being goofy. She kept saying, "Peek-A-Boo", "Peek-A-Boo!".

She was in my room.

I walked in saying, "Where's Molly?" and I would hear her giggle. Over and over. It was so funny!

Then I found her.

There she was.......

Sitting INSIDE of the dresser.

Goof ball!! Just like her mama!!!

Fun with the kids

2009-11-22T19:19:00.001-08:00

The kids' favorite place to go is....

Yup, it's a kids heaven! They, EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM, enjoys this place! We were able to get together with some old neighbors there and the kids had a total blast!

I love days like this. Minus the $50 to go, then another $50 at Target (you know what I am talking about--I just ran in to grab TP!! UGH!!). What gives??

These BootsAre Made For Walkin'

2009-11-15T17:51:00.000-08:00

Ha! Remember my whiny post about Molly's small feet?

Well, thank GOD for big sisters. My sister, Carie, found Miss Molly THE CUTEST pair of winter boots--size FOUR!! At Wal-Mart of all places!

They are sooo darn cute! Let it snow, let it snow, Let it snow!

Words from the Queen

2009-11-04T16:08:00.001-08:00

Tonight, Maggie felt the need to play the role of the "boss". You know, telling Molly what she can and can't play with. Taking everything from her sister. Not good.

Mike comes in to discipline the Queen to let her know that she is NOT the boss (hee! hee! We all know that she is!) and sent her to her room for a time out.

What's so cool about Maggie, is that she listens. She ran to her room crying. About, oh, one minute later, she comes back down. Stilling crying, of course and says to me...

"I love my daddy. I really love my daddy. But I don't love daddy. He yelled at me, mommy! I love daddy but I don't love daddy."

Drama Queen.

Another one down

2009-11-03T15:42:00.001-08:00

I have to admit, I am not a big Halloween fan. I really don't have a reason as I really enjoyed it as a kid. Maybe because the school's now days do not even allow a costume anywhere near the school in fear of offending someone. I mean really, that was the best part of Halloween growing up; having the huge costume party in the gym. Now, I buy all these costumes so the kids can put a snowsuit over it to keep them warm in the cold MN October day and trick or treat for an hour.

Regardless of what mama thinks, I do it for the kids. As Gavin stated, "it was the FUNNEST day of my life!!" He totally loved it and had a great time roaming the neighborhood with his buddies, then hanging out after Trick or Treating for some more fun. He was so excited, he left before I was even able to get the camera out so no pic's of Gavin this year (He was Darth Vader)

My proposal to you...

2009-11-02T07:40:00.000-08:00

It all started when I followed Bethany and Kyle's journey as they brought Addison home from Russia.

Since then I have followed several blogs that have brought orphans with down syndrome home from Eastern Europe. And as I write this Renee and Frank are in Eastern Europe visiting with their newest daughter, Kellsey.

They have all found their angels through Reece's Rainbow.

RR is hosting the Angel Tree Project this holiday season. It is an event where ALL the pictures of all the waiting kids are opened up... in hopes that they find families, and if not families, then in hopes that they find sponsors to help lighten the financial load of their future family.

As stated in the video in my previous post, not everyone is called to adopt but everyone can give time, money, and prayers. We can and do save the "world" for an orphan with Down Syndrome.

While I am not in a position to adopt, I want to help them find their "forever family". So....

My proposal to all of you that read this: We all give to some charity or another for Christmas, am I right? Be it hosting a family in need, giving to the coat drive at the local salvation army, toys for tots and the list goes on and on, there is always something to give to. Even if it is small, a $10 gift to a charity to whatever amount, we all give to something.

This year, I encourage you to consider donating to the Angel Tree Prject instead. This is what I intend to do. Not any one of these charities is any less important to the life of a child, I know but this year, my heart is with this charity.

Go the Angel Tree Project and view all the darling babes and consider a donation to one or more of them. If nothing else, prayers are always welcome!!

Lera and her friends will thank you!!

Reece's Rainbow

2009-10-31T10:11:00.001-07:00

Reece's Rainbow

As the world all knows, I have a great love for people with Down Syndrome. I, somehow, knew deep down that I would have my own child with Down Syndrome. The world also knows that love I have found for Orphans with Down Syndrome.

Andrea, the Executive Director for Reeces Rainbow (and the founder) made this video. What Andrea has done for these orphans is just amazing, breathtaking, great!!!!!

This is a long video but worth all TWELVE MINUTES so take the time to watch! My princess, Lera is in it!! (wink! wink!) Just click on the Reeces Rainbow linkat the start of the post.

More to come tomorrow...

90% Aborted

2009-10-22T20:36:00.000-07:00

Whoa! I almost forgot to post today. Sick. As. A. Dog!!!! Yup, the residual of the swine flu is sitting and has embedded itself in my lungs. Cough, cough! Hack Hack! (Don't worry. Nothing a little Z-pack and Robitussin with Codeine can't cure!)

One of the facts related to Down Syndrome that has hit me the hardest (and was totally SHOCKED, actually!!) was this: "90% of babies diagnosed prenatally with having Down Syndrome are aborted"

Really? Seriously? Where do they get these numbers from anyway?

I just wanted to take this opportunity to brag. I had the pleasure one day of asking our local genetic's counselor if she truly believed the number to be this high. Her response? "Not even close. Unless the babies "other" issues were so severe that the mortality rate would have been high, they have carried the babies to term" She went on to say in the 10+ years (I really can't remember how many years she has been practicing) she has only seen a handful of abortions due to the diagnosis of Down Syndrome alone.

While I am excited about this number, I will not EVER stop educating my community on Down Sydrome.

Another Milestone for Molly!

2009-10-21T07:45:00.000-07:00

I just about fell on the floor when I asked who wanted juice for breakfast and got this:

Molly is really growing up. I see a HUGE difference now that she goes to preschool. She wants to sit with her siblings at meal times now (as you can see, she is just a little too short for the table but her convertible highchair doesn't fit UNDER the table like I had hoped). She wants to do everything they do. I caught her independently sitting at the art table with markers and paper making a picture. She doesn't miss a beat.

She was my "baby" for so long. Now, she really is a BIG girl; all grown up.

When we first had Molly and was talking to the genetics's counselor, she reminded us that Molly will do everything that everyone else does, just at her own pace. I am here to tell you that there is a 100% truth to that. Trying not to sound like a broken record but sounding like a broken record, people with Down Syndrome are More Alike Than Different!

When Mama's Not Looking...

2009-10-20T07:35:00.000-07:00

Someone put a quarter in Molly yesterday! Holy Cow! She kept climbing up on the coffee table and dancing and singing away. I must have said a 100 times, "No, no Molly. Get down".

Well, after a while I decided if you can't beat 'em, join 'em. I just had to get a quick clip of it because she was totally cracking me up. She has one heck of a personality!!

Children with Down Syndrome can and are just as mischievous and adventurous as their siblings.

Molly is living proof.

The Twin's Three Year Stats!

2009-10-19T11:03:00.000-07:00

"Compared with normal standards for children without Down syndrome, growth rates of children with Down syndrome are reduced by 20% between ages 3 and 36 months, by 5 to 10% in childhood, and by 27% (girls) and 50% (boys) during adolescence."

Maggie and Molly just had their Three year physical. I was impressed with both of the girls as far as growth goes.

Maggie:

Weight: 33 pounds

Height: 38 1/2 inches

This puts her at the 70% on the typical growth chart.

Molly:

Weight: 28.5 pounds (Whoo! Hoo! She was stuck at 25# for the longest time!)

Height: 33 inches.

This puts her at the 25% on the Down Syndrome chart. So she is little for one with Down Syndrome. For #$@% and giggles, I plotted her on the typical growth chart. Umm, she doesn't even come close for height and maybe at the 3% for weight.

When they were born, they weighed the same with Maggie being 1 inch taller. The growth gap is getting to be quite remarkable as they get older.

I also had to add this picture to show that Maggie even "looks" older than her twin sister!

It's no wonder Molly is still considered the baby of the family by all of us.

Another reminder

2009-10-18T09:12:00.000-07:00

For those of you that follow my blog, I apologize for a repeat post. I want to say that I have posted this saying before.

When I first had Molly, someone had posted this on my Yahoo/Down Syndrome group. It was so refreshing and exactly what I needed.

From time to time, I give this to families that I feel I would benefit from it. One of which was a family touched by Trisomy 13.

It's a reminder that God doesn't make mistakes.

"As a small group of political and church leaders look on,

Jesus lifts a mentally handicapped child out of her high chair, kisses her and sits her on his knee. He dips a crust of bread in wine and feeds it to her, morsel by morsel.

As he does so, Jesus says:"I know what you are thinking. You need a sign. What better one could I give than to make this little one whole and new?

I could do it; but I will not.

I am the Lord and not a conjuror.

I gave this mite a gift I denied all of you -- eternal innocence.

To you she looks imperfect

But to me she is flawless,

Like the bud that dies unopened or the fledgling that falls from the nest to be devoured by ants. She will never offend me, as all of you have done.

She will never pervert or destroy the work of {my} hands.

She is necessary to you.

She will evoke the kindness that will keep you human.

Her infirmity will prompt you to gratitude for your own good fortune...More!

She will remind you that every day I am who I am, that my ways are not your ways and that the smallest dust mote whirled in the darkest space does not fall out of my hand...

I have chosen you.

You have not chosen me.

This little one is my sign to you.

Treasure her!"

Hands and feet--too cute!

2009-10-17T16:49:00.001-07:00

Molly was an "easy" diagnosis at birth. How they determine if a baby has Down Syndrome is first based on the physical features. Molly has many of them.

"Some of the physical features seen in people with Down syndrome include differences in their hands and feet. Instead of two creases across their palms, people with Down syndrome frequently have a single crease, short stubby fingers and a fifth finger that curves inward (clinodactyly). They can have small feet with a larger than normal space between the big and second toes. "

All of which Molly has. Molly's feet are extremely small. She is only in a size FOUR shoe. (In comparison, her twin is wearing a size NINE!!) I literally cannot find winter boots for her that fit.

But I just love the stubby little fingers and toes and the huge gap between her big and second toes. It defines Molly. It is her own special features that none of her siblings have.

Life interuppted...

2009-10-16T15:22:00.000-07:00

Yup, I fell of the wagon. I was suppose to blog about DS everyday. This is my time to shine! To show the world was a great thing we've got. While this is my "family" blog, it is also a "Down Syndrome Awareness" blog.

My camera broke--again!!!!!!!!! I have 101 pics of Molly (all of her typical "DS" features) that I would love to post but don't have a freakin' camera! Need to get that fixed. So, my blog has been interrupted due to the camera being down. I have tons of pictures but can only be accessed via Mike's I-pod, I guess so whatever.

Anyway, the sickies have hit our house hard!!

While I don't want get into a big debate about the Swine Flu/H1N1, I must say that I was really hoping more precautions would have been taken. People are walking around everywhere with this and it's hit my house--BIG TIME!!! Maggie and Gavin got it. Well, it's considered a "probable" case since they are no longer testing for it. A lot of school has been missed. A lot of work has been missed. This is huge as the company that I work for allows the employee to be out with the Swine Flu, it doesn't compensate for family members with it so my husband has now missed four shifts of work, decreasing his raise. It has REALLY interrupted our lives and our community. The amount of absentee's within our school district is about 30-40%. That sucks! This means a lot of extra work for the teachers, parents, and students.

But you know, "it's just the flu". Enough said.

One of the best and most obvious characteristic of a child with Down Syndrome is the tongue! I love the tongue! Molly's tongue has not affected her ability to talk or eat, like some. She sticks it out when she is concentrating or when she is really excited!! I love it! You tell her, "put your tongue away Molly" and she uses her pointer finger to put it away--what a good listener--lol!

This is what I am talking about!

2009-10-06T07:26:00.000-07:00

Please, please, please take the time to view this! This is what I have been talking about. Babies, children, and adults with Down Syndrome ARE More Alike Than Different!

When I watched this, all I could do was smile. I am so proud of each and every person on this video. I had happy thoughts about Molly at 29, and some sweet man asking for her hand in marriage.

Just Let Her Be Healthy

2009-10-04T16:43:00.000-07:00

When I first saw Molly, I had already knew she had Down Syndrome so, at that exact moment, I did not feel the sadness or disappointment of that child that I didn't get that so many (probably most parents) feel when they first get the "surprise".

After all, I just delivered TWO babies and given a medication that knocked me out. My hemoglobin was in the tank. I felt like crap physically. So I really didn't have it in me to totally absorbed (mentally) what had just happened.

Then, I had to worry about her heart. I knew I had to get her heart checked out. Her Echo was unremarkable; structurally normal with the PDA a "sliver" open. OK.

Now, I have to learn to tandem feed the girls. (side note: Thank God, Molly knew how to eat! Bonus!) I had to coordinate pumping and nursing. Up for one hour, quick one and half hour nap and up again to start the process all over.

I had to bring the girls in every single day for biliruben/jaundice checks as they were on the bili beds for a week or so.

I had to take care of myself. Eat, drink, eat, drink.

There was no time for me to mourn. Really. Honestly.

I do remember when I was taking a bath on day 5 of their life, I broke down. For that 10 minutes. I cried. Because of the hormone's, the overwhelming life that was in front of me, Molly, Maggie, people in my home! But mostly because of her Newborn Metabolic Screen results

The pediatrician called me to tell me that one of the rare disorders came back positive for a protein disorder call 3MCC

This is the first time that I got scared. The first time that I really processed the whole Down Syndrome thing.

I knew, at that moment, that I wasn't afraid of having a child with Down Syndrome. I was afraid of her not being healthy. Sure, I was lucky enough to not have any heart defects but now we were facing having a child with some rare genetic disorder that causes caos in her poor little body.

We had Molly (and myself as I may have given it to her) re-tested. The test proved to be a "false positive". Thank GOD!!

That's all I wanted. For Miss Molly to be healthy!

The 31 for 21 challange

2009-10-03T07:46:00.000-07:00

This month is National Down Syndrome Awareness Month. My favorite topic! It truly is. I am participating in "31 for 21" challenge. It is used to promote Down Syndrome Awareness and it is our hope that we will reach someone/anyone that is new to the world of Down Syndrome and the community; that they see that we are "More Alike Than Different"

The goal is to do a blog entry everyday, all 31 days of October focused around, in someway, Down Syndrome aka Trisomy 21. Hence the name "31 for 21".

There are almost 100 blogs that are participating. I encourage you to go to Tricia's blog, "Unringing The Bell" and visit some of these blogs.

Throughout the month, I will touch on my personal stories, my advocacy stories, and how this has changed my life and everyone that knows and loves Molly. Enjoy!

If there is anything that you want to know more about, or a question, feel free to leave a comment and I will address it! It's what I love to do!!

Maggie's Dora Cupcakes!

2009-10-02T06:31:00.000-07:00

As you remember, we were all about the

Dora Cupcakes.

Can you believe that Sam's Club had a Dora Cupcake Cake??!! I think this was my favorite part of the day!

Maggie was sooo excited to FINALLY get to see and eat her Dora Cupcakes. You know, the ones she waited weeks to enjoy!

My First Observation

2009-10-01T10:08:00.001-07:00

Today I went to observe Molly in here classroom. Mainly, to calm my nerves that yes, she is OK in her big classroom. And to see if she really had her very own paraprofessional.

Needless to say, I was pleasantly suprised!!

Molly does wonderful in a group setting. She was receptive to her surroundings, listened and followed directions on the first (and sometimes second but no more than that) time. She did amazing during speech. She was talking up a storm all day long. She said, "backpack" clear as day! They had her point to one of two pictures and she got them all right!

They do a LOT for/with her to boost her fine and gross motor skills (had her push a weighted cart, walking up uneven surface, spinning, scissors, coloring).

She does have her very own para. At times, helped her too much but I trust that she will back off once we get rolling.

She moves from activity to activity relatively quickly (she is only there for 2 1/2 hours). She is constantly on the move. No down time, really. By the end of the day, she is pooped out. She fell asleep in the car on the way home.

All in all, it was great experience. I am glad that she is getting what she needs. To be honest, this beats the Birth to Three program right out of the water.

Lera

2009-09-24T17:19:00.000-07:00

So, we all know my love for Lera.

No, I haven't stop thinking about and praying her. Not for a one single minute.

Each week, I check the Reeces Rainbow site in hopes to find that she found her forever family. Today was no different. I went to the site, clicked on Russia, then region II and there she is. She has always been the first one on the page. This sweet little face:

But not today. OMG, my heart skipped a beat! OMG! OMG! She found her family!! With tears rolling down my face, I quickly jumped to "new committments" but no Lera. What is going on? Where is she?

Then I went back to Region II. RR switched it up a little. Lera is still there. Darn! {{There's still hope for me, I guess}}. The best part--there is a NEW picture of this Russian princess!!!!!!!!!!

She looks sooo grown up!! What a big girl. It's heartbreaking knowing she is growing up in an orphanage!

Any takers? Anyone have an extra 20 grand laying around to put in my bank account so I can bring her home?

Love her!!

Molly's IEP is ready!!

2009-09-24T16:34:00.001-07:00

It's been a good week. After a very frustrating first week of preschool, I got everything Molly needs to succeed in preschool! It's a great feeling! These people truly care about Molly and it shows. They really went to bat for her and I couldn't be happier!!

Highlights from the IEP:

Her very own paraprofessional every minute she is in preschool
Speech 2x/week for 20 minutes (She is in preschool 2 days a week)
Occupational Therapy 1x/wk for 20 minutes
Adaptive Physical Education: Still needs to be evaluated.
Will perform all daily tasks independently and such

We will meet as a team monthly to review how she is doing. Molly has a "communication" notebook that tells me about her day, what she did, what made her happy {or sad}.

To a great school year!!

Step Up For Down Syndrome Pic's

2009-09-21T10:12:00.000-07:00

{{Almost ALL of}} Molly's Team 2009

It was great day for the Walk for Down Syndrome (now called Step Up For Down Syndrome).
Molly's team had around 50 people
We made our financial goal
It was 78 degree's and sunny
We had no melt downs
Met a few new families blessed with an extra 21st chromosome!

I considered doing a slide show but there are time restraints. So I just edited a few of my favorites from the day. (and really, I was too busy focusing on the cause so didn't take that many anyway)

I was so excited to see Molly "WALK" at her own walk (last year she wasn't walking quite yet)

The Front and back of Molly's Tishirts