My Life in Wonderland

It's a bird... It's a plane...

2012-01-09T20:16:00.000-08:00

It's a CARPET ANGEL!!

Sadie was so excited about her 'clean room'. She lead Scott and I, with closed eyes, into her masterpiece and then proceeded to flop on the floor waving her arms and legs. We won't talk about all the things stacked on her bed or the numerous items she threw into other rooms. For now we rejoice because Sadie has enough room on her bedroom floor for... Carpet Angels!

P.S. she cleans the greatroom with equal amounts of talent and enthusiasm. Just don't plan on sitting on any of the couch cushions!

I'm back... REALLY I am!

2011-09-06T14:51:00.000-07:00

Ok, ok... I know I say it every year BUT, now that summer is about over I am back to blogging. This time I mean it. NO really! See, my older kids do most of their schooling online and sometimes it is hard for me to get to the computer (and really if I'm on I'm at facebook or webkinz); but now they both have laptops and that leaves the home computer to me :) I promise I won't let you down... I know there is someone out there becaue my blog status said it was already viewed 41 times today. So, unless I have a seriously sick stalker I think someone wants to hear about our family :)

Just a few things I will blog later about. I guess you can call it a teaser...

Kiersten graduated (a year early)
She got accepted to the 3 schools (and you'll be surprised which one she chose)
We are on a hunt for Warm clothes (hint, hint)
Her boy got his mission call
She is attending the young adult ward

Madison finished her first year of HS
She is attending PCHS again
She had to make up 47 seminary lessons to pass
She promises to go to seminary this year
She needs to earn some $ to pay for FASKTRACK....

Hannah is ready for her last year in JR high
She has grown about 6 inches an 3 sizes in 6 months
She might get her braces off before Madison (heaven help us)
Her solo is ready and AWESOME
She might get to go on point in December

Sadie has lots of POOP issues (yes I said poop!)
She is starting to read
She has been working hard on counting by 10's
She performed in her 4th dance recital
Watch out Christmas show... she's ready!!!

We'll be back...I PROMISE!!!!

A Family Like No Other

2011-01-18T18:42:00.001-08:00

The ds community (or family) is made up of every religion, life style, economic status, political view, educational background, race, age, and geographical location. You might find a few similarities; but the common thread is a loved one with ds. We are bound together to fight for our child's quality of life and our desire to break down stereotypes and hatred towards our child.

Three times since Sadie has joined our family I have seen this community go CRAZY and trust me… these women can fight! I mean, we have been trained to be our children's advocates and if we feel our child is in danger… WATCH OUT!! Everytime it starts with an outsider, someone who is posing as a member of the community, who tugs on our hearts. We believe their stories, until their stories get too big, and someone does a little digging.

Who could blame us? Our hearts have doubled in size since our family joined this journey and we feel an instant bond with complete strangers who also landed in "Holland". But, something I have noticed, is when the 'wrong doer' is outed it doesn't stop. People start turning on each other . I think this is where our differences are most obvious. Some of us always want to root for the underdog, many are more seasoned and have put up walls, and others just like to watch the drama. Oh, and don't forget the complications technology has put on our relationships (we can't hear tone of voice or see body language on facebook or a forum). Many statements are misunderstood or blown out of proportion.

I'm not going to get into details; but I have one warning for 'our community'. We need to be cautious but not closed off. We need to keep ourselves open and willing to accept new members. We need to still be supportive and loving to those who are new on their journey. We will probably get duped again and we will rightfully be pissed off. But, maybe next time we can take a quick time out and remember why we are tied together, and respect our differences??

Just sayin'!

Oh, and BTW…. Our differences are what make our family a place where everyone can find someone who understands! Hopefully we didn't scare off any new mama's who need love, support, and guidance.

Blast from the past... Sadie 1 year

2010-11-08T08:27:00.000-08:00

Sadie Reese Teague 1 year old

Sadie at one year just before her first major surgery. She actually wasn't sitting on her own yet... we had to do the 'mom let go, quick take the picture, grab her again' trick. Sadie was very sick here. She had just spent 4 months fighting aspiration pneumonia and was almost healthy enough to have her surgery. She only weighed 11 pounds here and those are newborn soft shoes she is wearing :) Sadie has always been a very happy baby and never complains- even when she is super sick!

Thanks to Madison for scanning this picture. Looking forward to sharing pictures of all my girls now that we know how to scan :)

Owie!!!

2010-11-07T19:06:00.000-08:00

Can You Guess What

This Little Monkey...

WON'T

Be Doing
For A Long Time??? Rainbow Bars... Owie!!!

Guess What Sadie Came Home With?

2010-11-02T13:30:00.001-07:00

Today Sadie came home with her first....

invitation to a typical classmate's birthday party! Mixed reactions from mama. First, I smiled and thought... how awesome. Then I thought, how many of these will she be invited to? I know- how lame. I quickly pushed aside that thought and enjoyed this moment with Sadie. She was so excited that I barely got it away from her long enough to write it on the calendar. Which is also the exact moment I realized the party is on Sunday :( We don't let our kids go to parties on Sunday because that is the Sabbath. But, lately we haven't been the best Sabbath observers (really since my kids started to perform on Sundays- heck they even went trick or treating). So, the hypocrite that I am... I'm really thinking of letting her go. Late... because it starts during church... but still letting her go.

Last Day of 31 for 21: Halloween with a little blast to the past

2010-10-31T16:08:00.000-07:00

Sadie- Minnie Mouse 2010

Early Intervention 2004 Sadie's first Halloween! She is the fourth one on the top of the couch (a black kitty)

Right Before School

Sadie and her friend Kyle. He is so sweet! He even touches her back and makes sure she gets into the door of the class.

Sadie with her class signing a Halloween Song.
The Halloween Parade. This is the only time she wasn't waving and kissing the audience. She thought it was her parade.
Her Kindergarten Class
Gavin and Sadie before the Halloween Party. Just minutes before she hid from us for 10 or 15 of the most scary minutes of my life. Gavin has been home with his forever family from Russia for 2 years. Sadie and Dad (Kip) being interviewed during the Halloween Parade at Church. When the microphone was put in her face she said, "My name is Sadie and I Minnie Mouse for the Halloween time." Awesome, clear, and greatly appreciated by many!
Sadie after giving me a high five and yelling, "I did it!" She was proud of herself. Minnie Mouse (Sadie), Tweedle Dee (Hannah), and Tweedle Dum (Selina)

"It's gonna bite me!"

2010-10-30T15:47:00.000-07:00

I just found Sadie in the backyard belting the words to "Get'cha Head in the Game" and almost stepped on a rainy day treat.

Me: "Hey Sadie, look at this long worm."

Sadie: "Ughhhhhh! A snail... it's gonna to bite me" (running and hiding behind the swing)

Me: "It's not a snail it's a worm. Worms eat dirt not little girls. They don't bite Sadie's"

Sadie, "Oh, cool!"

Then she proceeded with an reenactment of High School Musical with the worm as her audience :)

The worm said, "The show warmed it's HEARTS!" sorry... I'm super tired and goofy! :)

Girls Goofing Around With The Webcam

2010-10-27T21:03:00.000-07:00

Hannah, Madison, and Sadie

I Want To Share This With You Again...

2010-10-27T20:54:00.000-07:00

Originally posted in August of 2008. I'm sorry but I have to share this every year :)

I've been thinking a lot of an experience I had just after the birth of Sadie. Three of my friends came to visit me in the hospital. They all sat at the end of my bed admiring Sadie and looking forward to the births of two of their children in the following few weeks. I felt the time was right and I just blurted out, "She has Down Syndrome". What happened next has been one of the best lessons I have ever experienced.

My friend Kay, who had 3 children and was expecting her 4 in the next two weeks and who grew up with two deaf parents, exclaimed, "Oh, she's so cute... doesn't she have the cutest toes? It looks like she is giving us a peace sign, " (because of the big gap). She just kept talking and talking about everything... I wondered if she had even heard the news I had just given her.

My friend Alison, who was expecting her first child the next month, sat there with a with a deer caught in headlights look. I don't think she said another word and I was sure she was lost in thoughts of, "if Kari didn't know she was going to have a kid with ds... what about ME?"

And then there was my sweet little friend Ayumi she sat there with tears in her eyes, got up and hugged me and started asking questions about what was next and about her health.

Everyone had a different reaction. I believe those reactions were all born from different experiences they had in life. Each had different upbringings and and different personalities. All three were there in the room with me at the same time hearing the same things; but, each of them heard it differently. Kay lived around disabled people all her life. She knew that things would be just fine. She was there to celebrate a new life. Alison was newly married, expecting her first child. They were perfect and nothing seriously life altering had ever happened to her. Ayumi, she grew up in Japan. She grew up in a society where people with disabilities are hidden, killed or shipped away.

I learned that day that I could never control how others reacted. I needed to look beyond their reaction and wonder... why do they think that way? Now today, when we are out and about, I often see how people react to Sadie. Sometimes they turn their heads. Sometimes they look at me with pity. But most of the time, they smile. They see how happy we are. They see the joy and love Sadie brings to our family.

I can't control how others feel. The only thing I can control is my own thoughts and emotions. I can however, hope that maybe as we fully accept and rejoice in our little ones others will see their beauty and worth. And if not- it won't change how I feel one bit!!!

Worldless Wednesday

2010-10-27T19:29:00.000-07:00

Sadie and Jake- Don't let this fool you,

Sadie is always up for a hug and kiss!

Crazy Swimmer!

2010-10-25T20:19:00.000-07:00

Sadie loves the pool. Actually, she is quite a crazy swimmer and enjoys spending lots of time in the deep end... which drives me nuts!! She has graduated from floaties and boobies to just "boobies" (what she calls the floatation vest). I love this picture because you can see all her freckles :)

21 Things I Love About Sadie

2010-10-25T19:06:00.001-07:00

I LOVE...

1. listening to her "sing" about her day on the way home from school.

2. her dance moves and how she remembers every dance she has ever seen her sisters perform.

3. how she knows almost every radio Disney song and is able to identify it within the first few seconds.

4. that her response to why? is "BECAUSE I love it!"

5. that even though she has some serious ninja skills, she will crawl up in bed with me.

6. she is very compassionate and will hug and kiss someone when they are crying.

7. that she hangs out with most of the boys at school because she thinks they are "funny".

8. that she loves to read books.

9. how sassy she is! Even when that means she tells me "whatever woman" or uses all the signs on her forehead to call me a "Major Loser".

10. that she thinks Nick Jonas, Chad Dillon Cooper, and "boy" are her boyfriends.

11. she plays "teacher" and "school" with her imaginary friends and asks them "what is your name?", tells them "good job", and to "shut it".

12. her freckles on her nose, cheeks, and eyelid.

13. how she walks through the "kindergarten pickup traffic" and never notices everyone staring at her. (mostly cause she soooo cute)

14. she loves to pray!

15. she tells me "this is the best dinner ever" almost every night.

16. she thinks she is a teenager and that all her sisters friends are actually her friends.

17. her soft skin, extra skin on her neck, and the wide gap between her toes.

18. that she has wanted to be Tinkerbell or the purple fairy for the last three Halloweens.

19. her giggle... how it sounds like snoopy and comes from her gut.

20. how her pants fall just below her butt crack.

21. the twinkle in her eyes and how she dives into my arms to hug me and tell me she loves me.

Oh there are soooo many more! And I am sure the list would be different if I did it in a week. I love my Sadie sooo much! Leave a comment and let me know some of the things you love about your little one. You can also tell me what you love about Sadie!

Sadie, Some Dolls, and Lady Gaga!

2010-10-24T17:43:00.000-07:00

Who do you see when you look at this picture? Sadie sees Lady Gaga, Annie (Madison & Hannah's friend), a Boy, and Thea (Madison's friend). I'm really scared my 6 year old knows who Lady Gaga is and can sing you several of her songs. But, I can't blame her.... that doll really does look like Lady Gaga.

A glimpse in Sadie's imaginary world

2010-10-23T12:29:00.000-07:00

I've been trying to work on a post about "the 21 things I love most about Sadie". The strange thing is the longer she is with our family the harder this gets. I may have to change it to the "100 things I love most about Sadie".

So, until I can shorten my list I thought I would share how I got Sadie to school the other day. I remember when Sadie was first born I heard that kids with ds don't have a good imagination. I must have heard wrong; because most kids I know have a great imagination. Infact, lately Sadie spends most of her time outside of school in her "imgaination". A lot of her play is based on things she has seen or heard; but whose isn't? So, I will take you back a few days and demonstrate why Disney Channel will be closely monitored from this point forward.

Me: "Sadie, time to go to school"

Sadie: "Zack, Cody, London I told you not now"

Me: "Sadie, don't you want to play on the monkey bars? You are going to be too late to play."

Sadie: "I have to find my hat and talk to London"

Me: "huh?"

Sadie: "Cody, I don't want to"

Me: "Who are you?"

Sadie: "I Bailey... I TOLD you that!"

Me: "Oh," I finally realized we are playing Suite Life with Zack and Cody, "so, Bailey- Mr. Moseby needs you to get to the boat before he leaves. He wants you to hurry."

Sadie: "Ok... let me get my hat, pants, and panties" This is where she puts these imaginary items on- in that order.

Sadie: "Ready, let's go. We be late for Mosbey, Zack."

Later that day she spent the whole afternoon yelling "Sienna" which I hear is Hannah Montana's brother, Jackson's, girlfriend he misses sooo much. Oh, and there is the "Father, Father" said in an English accent that Tinkerbell's friend yells before we must hoist Sadie in the air to fly like the fairy. So many more... I'll save them for facebook, or if your lucky, maybe I will share with you!

D is for Down Syndrome

2010-10-21T09:49:00.000-07:00

This video was made a couple of years ago by an online friend Renee Garcia at "Life with My Special K's". Sadie is in the video twice... can you guess where? I had so much fun looking at this video again and rememebering how little all our friends were and enjoying how much they have grown.

Enjoy! Thanks Renee :)

Looks like I need to find a new format for the video. If you can't see it all on my blog please visit Renee's blog. It's worth the extra click!

http://www.myspecialks.com/2010/10/d-is-for-down-syndrome.html

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Kinda Wordless Wednesday...

2010-10-20T18:59:00.000-07:00

Who am I kidding? Of course I will write something :)

Sorry this is a bad picture; but most pictures are from a mobile phone nowadays. This picture was taken by my friend's daughter after riding Buzz Lightyear with Sadie. They thought is was sooo cute that she stopped and asked for them to take a picture of her in front of the scoreboard.

Yeah, it's cute the first dozen times... just sayin'!!

Parent/Student/Teacher Conference

2010-10-19T15:22:00.000-07:00

We had our first conference since Sadie has been fully included. Last year her mainstreaming teacher, who is now her full time teacher, was less than excited or positive about Sadie being in her class. She only allowed her in class during "playtime" and would ask me to pick her up early if the scheduled changed and it interfered with that "playtime". I learned very quickly that her teacher did not understand mainstreaming or inclusion and was not on board. Some of her comments made me think she believed kids with Down Syndrome were unable to learn. Sadie is super verbal and has a huge vocabulary; but she is an observer. I love our ride home because she tells me everything that happened that day. Mrs. H hadn't heard her talk much and told me one time, "She was turning the pages to the book and she said apple!" Wow... seriously???

Anyway, I was worried when she showed up to Sadie's IEP believing that Sadie would be placed in her class this year. I know that ignorance needs to be educated and that by positive examples in our community negative stereotypes of people with down syndrome will be shattered. But, did I want to put my kid in a place where she would be responsible for changing the minds of so many that didn't believe in inclusion?

I remember during one of our Learning Program sessions Dana Halle said, "The most important thing to me when including my child is making sure the teacher wants my kid in her class. The best way to find out is to ask." So, that's what I did. I looked Mrs. H in the eyes and said, "all these plans are great; but, are YOU going to be HAPPY to see Sadie EVERYDAY? All I want to know is that she is wanted in your class." She didn't look offended and responded positively. I had my doubts.

I was worried for nothing. Mrs. H and Ms. A (her aide) are happy everyday to see her. They are genuine and kind and positive. Infact, while leaving the conference the resource teacher said, "I am really excited about this year. Sadie is doing terrific and you made the right choice to have her repeat kindergarten. Everyone is so proud of her. Inclusion works when everyone is on board. A world of difference from last year!" That about sums it up.

During the conference (and throughout the year when picking her up) her teacher gushed about how well Sadie is doing. Infact, there were times when I felt bad because I wasn't as excited as she was about Sadie. I think it is because I know what Sadie can do.... but, I will let Mrs. H think it is the inclusion that is working so well. Anyway, Sadie read us a book and showed us all her sounds and letters. Mostly they were excited for her endurance, focus, and ability to stay on task and do the work. There is some modifying happening (mostly fine motor). I'm cool with that. I want her to learn and be successful. Even if she wasn't doing the same work as her peers- she is happy to be with all the kids!

Sadie rocks and I'm happy with her placement this year. The only thing I don't like... all the crazy "tricks" she has learned on the monkey bars. Glad I don't have to see that everyday :)

Educational Options

2010-10-16T06:25:00.001-07:00

Because of the miscarriage I haven't been able to blog 31 for 21 like I promised. The rest of the month will be spent trying to make up for that!

Twenty years ago educational options for kids with down syndrome were slim. Special schools or Special Education Classes were pretty much your only placement choices. Today, research shows that mainstreaming (partial day in a typical class) or inclusion (majority of the day in a typical class with some support) can be beneficial for some of our kids. I will try to find a link of a previous post all about the research done in the UK about inclusion. Briefly, it says that if a child is fully included they test 2 to 3 years higher than a child in SDC. In the UK 70% of all kids are included. In the US less than 10% are included. Educational plans are very personal and there is some pressure in the down syndrome community. Some over eager parents want everyone of our kids included to "prove" to the world our kids are capable. Considering I have homeschooled all of my kids at different times and for different reasons, I feel confident you will believe me when I say each kid has different strengths and weaknesses. They have different needs and different comfort levels. So, placement should be the environment that helps your child thrive and NO ONE should judge a child's potential or a parent's dedication because of their choice.

I have seen high functioning kids, who are academically strong, placed in SDC (special day classes) because of sensory issues. They thrive! I have seen moderate functioning kids placed in typical classrooms thrive because of social interaction. Sadie's first year of school we placed her in SDC Kindergarten because she was young, sick and we felt like typical kindergarten was a stretch but she was beyond preschool. This year, more mature and healthier, she is fully included with 25 mins a day pull out in a resource class to help modify her curriculum. Next year??? Depends on what is best for Sadie. Get the point?

Another important point is that every child with down syndrome is mentally retarded or developmentally delayed. Most kids with ds are tested within mild to moderate delays. A lot of parents don't like the "R" word... I don't like it to much if it is used as a word to describe what my child can not do. Medically and academically, it is true. This was a hard concept for me- probably the hardest in our journey with Sadie. It doesn't mean she can not learn--- just means she learns differently and at a different pace. I notice this most when she is mastering something new. It seems like she learns in steps and each step is obvious- unlike my older children that seemed to learn something over night. It actually helps you savor her accomplishments and gives us an understanding of how hard she works.

Even though Sadie is developmentally delayed (or MR) she has been tested within a normal IQ range. Reality is, she needs help. She learns differently, things are processed differently, her rate of learning is different; BUT, she learns! She is one smart cookie :) Next post will be about our first parent/child/teacher conference as a fully included student...

I Would Take This Journey Again... If I Had the Choice!

2010-10-03T14:30:00.000-07:00

6 1/2 years ago when Sadie was born there were tears; but the tears weren't so much for grieving the "perfect child" we lost. They were tears of fear. Of not knowing how her disability would affect our family. Tears that I wouldn't be able to parent a child with special needs along with the three I already had. I was scared about the couple of dozen "possible" medical issues we needed to rule out and worried about how to homeschool and attend all the therapy and Dr. visits.

I guess I never really allowed myself to focus on what we lost. It could have to do with our religious belief that Sadie is exactly who she is suppose to be and that Heavenly Father loves her. We also believe that in the pre-existence Sadie fought hard during the war in Heaven before Satan and his 1/3 were cast out. It is believed that Sadie was a valiant warrior who has been blessed by Heavenly Father to still come to earth and gain a body and a family; but because of the Down Syndrome she will be shielded from Satan and his cunning ways. Therefore, she is blessed with protection here on earth and will be restored to 'perfection' in eternity.

Several weeks ago I posted a facebook status saying something along the lines of how I guess I should just face the fact that I shouldn't have anymore babies since I had my hands full and one graduating HS this year. I was surprised to hear some say I had too many kids (in a very nice, based on religious views and upringing way). I made the joke that if I only had two I would have missed out on Hannah and Sadie... that would be sooo sad. Not only would I have missed out on two of the most colorful, fun-loving, entertaining, and full of life kids; but I would have missed out on Down Syndrome, the down syndrome community, and what living with a child with ds has done FOR our family. Noticed how I said FOR and not TO? I think you get the picture :)

Anyway, today I am 9 weeks along in a very "SURPRISE" pregnancy. I won't get into how many crazy feelings and adjustments we have been through; but I would like to make a point. On Friday, after some red flags, we went into the Dr. to find out the baby was measuring three weeks behind and there was no heartbeat. I knew I didn't have the dates wrong; mostly because that date would put me conceiving the day I took the test (which was very much positive). I knew the pregnancy was over... and today that was confirmed.

So, I sit here... grieving for the baby I am losing. For reals... losing! It is a very different feeling than when they place a beautiful almond eyed floppy girl on my chest and I knew the girl I had spent so many months dreaming of would never be joining our family. No... I can honestly say that any tears shed that day were NOT tears of grieving. I had my sweet little baby. My little girl. A daughter of God. She was alive and was ready to be loved by her family. Down Syndrome is not a death sentence. Far from it! Down Syndrome is a hurdle. A journey that has many ups and downs and tears along the way; but a journey filled with laughs, hugs, snuggles, cheers, and memories. A journey I would take again any day... if I had the choice!

Day #2: Sleeping Beauty

2010-10-02T11:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I came home between errands to find Sadie sleeping in the hallway. Unfortunately, I didn't get a picture; but looking back a have plenty pictures of her sleeping to share. This is just in the last 6 months. I believe it is a glimpse into her personality and development. She plays hard until she drops!
She put herself to bed one day after school.

Sleeping with her "husband" Woody the night before her last surgery.

Yeah, I kinda think this one tells more about me as a parent than Sadie... what kind of mom lets her kid fall asleep on the kitchen table?

After church...

After surgery... this girl has a hard time waking after surgery. She was a zombie!

Flexible sleeping. When she was little she use to sleep on her back with her legs up by her ears.

ok, this one cracks me up. She can sleep anywhere... but do you see her mouth.
She looks like Beaker from Muppets!

See the resemblance???
I love my Sadie... happy, crazy, sassy, awake or asleep- she is awesome!

Day #1- Sadie, a bookfair, and a happy dance!!!

2010-10-01T08:58:00.000-07:00

Grab This Button

Today is Day #1 of '31 for 21'. I will try to blog all 31 days of October (which happens to be Down Syndrome Awareness Month) and use this time to blog/brag about our life loving someone with an extra 21st chromosome! During the 6 1/2 years Sadie has been in our family we have had many ups and downs (no pun intended). Seriously, she has fought for her life, we have spent countless days at therapy and Dr. appointments, and we have felt left behind while her peers soared past her in development. However, we have spent more of our time watching our little girl prove her worth, accomplish what we believed unobtainable, and gain respect and love from all who know her. My goal this month is to give you a glimpse in our family and help you understand how Down Syndrome is a hurdle and not a road block. How, even though her journey may be different and a little longer, Sadie can learn and will be successful!

So, I've been dying to share a story from yesterday...

I remembered that Sadie was scheduled to attend the bookfair but had forgotten to send money for her. I was sad but wanted to know if she was disappointed.

Me: "Sadie did you go to the bookfair today?"

Sadie: "Ummm, no... I no have money and one of my parents isn't here. I know, I go get my McDonald's and get a book."

Me: "You are awesome!!" HIGH FIVE & HAPPY DANCE!!!

OK.. here's why I am soooooooooooo excited about this little exchange.
1) she remembered and understood the two reasons she was unable to get a book at the bookfair (I have an 11 year old who doesn't get that)

2) She made a solution!!!! She thought since she didn't have money at school she could go home and get some money (SO WHAT IF it is play money?) out of her McDonalds cash register.

This is so awesome! I remember 3 years ago when we would ask her how school was and her answer would be something like, "backpack" and when we asked again she would say, "bus.. yellow". Now she is rockin it and telling me what happened, why she couldn't do it, and how she was going to solve it!

Reason #1 why my kid with down syndrome is awesome- she will learn, in her own time, and we will stop, high five her, and do happy dance!!!!!

Sunday Teachings Compliments of Sadie

2010-09-05T21:40:00.001-07:00

Sadie learned about tithing today in Primary. She came home with a little "tithing jar" that she quickly named her magic jar. Scott asked her what she learned…..

Dad, "What is this?"
Sadie, "This is Tarzan that makes magic tricks"
Dad, "What? Do you mean your tithing?"
Sadie, "Yeah, tithing- it does magic"
Dad, "So, tell me about your tithing. What does the dime and penny mean?"
Sadie, "it's magic"
Dad, "what do you do with the penny?"
Sadie, "Go to Mexico"
Dad, "Who do you give it to?"
Sadie, "Ummm, Madison"
Dad, "No…"
Sadie, "Hannah???"
Dad, "NO……"
Sadie, "Oh, yeah… Jesus"

Luckily the standard Jr. Primary answer was the right one this time. Sadie then let us know she was done with telling us about her tithing lesson as she picked up her "fake cell phone" and said, "Hi Jesus!" I wonder what other kids went home and told their parents what I taught them today in sharingtime? Maybe I don't want to know!

Wordless Wednesday-- Look What I Found!

2010-08-31T21:48:00.000-07:00

Found these pictures on my computer...

Hannah...You...
Are... AWESOME!!

On a Lighter Note- Last trip to Disneyland

2010-08-30T08:41:00.000-07:00

Toy Story was Sadie's favorite through her last set of surgeries. She was soooo excited to see Jessie. Jessie even talked to her (a no no for characters at Disneyland)

We were going to leave and the photographer kept telling me to wait for Sarge.... and he was worth the wait. He was so attentive and sweet. He took his time with her and asked her all kinds of questions. We even saw him later and he remembered her name and asked how she liked his ride.
Woody was actually the first character we saw. I DON'T like waiting in line to see the characters but there was only two families in line so we stopped. We probably would have stopped for him anyway. The worker told us Woody wasn't seeing anyone else. I was seriously bummed-- considering Sadie told us Woody is her "husband". But the photographer grabbed my arm and told me to wait for Jessie in 5 mins. We waited and as soon as Woody was done he walked through the line and hugged Ms. Sadie. I couldn't whip out my phone quick enough to get a picture; but believe me Sadie was in heaven. Woody was sooo nice to do that!

Here's an arcade game where you put in a quarter and make Woody dance. Best 25 cents I ever spent :)

Waiting for the new ride in California Adventure - Toy Story 3D

Kameron and Kiersten waiting with us... Kameron hadn't been to Disneyland in a couple of years and he was like a little kid all excited. It was sooo much fun to go with him.

I think they think this is cool :)
Kameron and Kiersten both just got their permits. Kiersten's reaction is honest from the first time she rode with him :)

Sadie thinks she is cool in this hat!

She loved making me sick in the teacups! Sadie also went on some new rides this time. She doesn't like new things; but after one try loved the Storybook Boat Ride and Winnie the Pooh.

Every Mom Should Have a Mom to Love and Support Her

2010-08-29T09:32:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure I will ever publish this post; but I find it very therapeutic to write my feelings. Talking with others sometimes fuels the fire; but writing kinda of puts it out there and helps you let it go. After the last few days, and after writing my last blog post, I have had this heaviness in my heart. I miss my family. I miss having a mom to support and care for me. Watching this new mom of a child with ds and her extended family makes me jealous. I am happy for all their support; but I am angry and pissed off my mom is not here.

She has not passed; but has chosen not to be part of my or my children's life. She is selfish and in my opinion, has not stepped up to be an unconditionally loving parent. I understand why she has a hard time being there for me- but I it doesn't take the pain away. My mom grew up in a dysfunctional home. She married my dad at 18 and found out she was pregnant with me shortly after he was killed in a drunk driving accident. She didn't have family to lean on (because they had abandoned her) and she had a hard time raising me by herself.

Fast forward to years later when I as an adult watch her being the "perfect, supporting mom" for my younger sister and brother. Idolizing everything my sister does and staying home with them, and fighting for them. Even asking them if their homework was done and making sure they only hung out with good kids. Yeah, so I'm jealous. I did a lot of my own raising and I made mistakes and didn't have a mom to bat for me.

I should also mention my youngest brother has a painful disease and my mom has had to fight for his care, education, and watch him struggle in everything. Scott and I married when my sister was two and my brother was only 9 months. I always felt more like an aunt and uncle to them. I called them every first day of school, sent them Easter boxes, had sleepovers with them, helped pay for EFY and letterman jackets. Because I love them.

Ever since I had Sadie it's like my mom was in competition with me on who had it harder. Which kid was sicker. I could never have an honest conversation about how I felt about my new journey with Sadie without her "one upping me" or telling me to get a grip. If anyone knows me they know I am strong. I don't whine; but I was working through things. I felt like I could never live up to my perfect sister, the little peacock princess!

One day while I was talking about how hard taking Sadie to all her appointments and still trying to support a particular difficult older sibling she told me to stop complaining and take her example. Yeah, her example of yelling all the time, and mooching off everyone, and borrowing money that she never planned on giving back, and ignoring her grandkids. What the heck... I appreciate someone telling me not to sit and complain, but isn't your mom suppose to love and support you no matter what?

I hung up on her. Now almost three years later she has never called. The only contact I have had with them is one email charging me for work they did helping with a bathroom during their last visit. The visit I paid for everything including gas, Disneyland passes, all the Christmas presents including ipods, $2,000 to repair their car (the one we bought them for $3,000 and they haven't paid anything on), and hotel money so my sister and my mom could extend their special vacation. Also, I received one message saying my brother was doing well after another surgery I didn't know anything about. Almost like a slap in the face that I wasn't told about it. Can you believe it?

I know I hung up on her; but I am her daughter. Part of being a mom is to suck up and make things better even if you don't think you did anything wrong. She is suppose to support me and love me and be there for her granddaughters. She has missed graduations, surgeries, first days of school, first boyfriends, first dates, first time driving, growing of boobs, and much much more!
I've pretty much resolved the fact that I will never have a relationship with her. She has missed to much and has shown me how little she cared. I mostly am sad for my kids. Sad they don't have a Nana and someone to cheer them for their accomplishments.

Welcome to Holland... to my friends in Bellingham, Wa

2010-08-28T11:52:00.000-07:00

I just found out a friend of mine who I served with in Primary while living in Bellingham just welcomed a new grandson with down syndrome. It is interesting how emotional something like this can be for everyone including myself. I noticed a facebook post from my friend announcing "In the short space of 12 hours my life has been forever altered. Amber and Lance had their first child a son... He is beautiful and perfect and has the love of a great family, lots of cousins and uncles and aunts who will hold his hand as we learn more about Down Syndrome. We have been blessed."

Friends flooded grandma's facebook with excitement, support, and encouragement. I also read mom's (Amber's) sister's blog which was filled with admiration and faith. I know from experience there is a big adjustment ahead for this sweet little family. Shock, disbelief, courage, understanding, faith... all emotions that will swing back and forth. Luckily, this family is a member of our church that teaches these "choice children" have been blessed by Heavenly Father. Blessed to be born and receive a body; but to be spared from Satan and his influences. We believe these children have been so valiant in the pre-existence that they were blessed for their courage. Just knowing this already helps getting through some of the grieving process.

I remember feeling so bad for some parents in our support group who thought their child was a curse because of their faithfulness (or lack of it). It made me sooo sad. This doesn't mean that knowing God's plan makes it a breeze. You still feel sad for the "perfect child" you have lost. Although having as many children as I do I never thought there was a "perfect child" :) Anyway, the emotions and bumps in the road are still there and painful.

When I saw the post I have to admit there was a bit of excitement boiling inside of me. I quickly remembered those first days with Sadie. How scared I was. How I felt like I had to make sure everyone knew I was ok. How overwhelmed I felt because I had other children who needed me. I said a quick prayer for Amber, Lance and their new little baby and quickly started sending messages with information and words of encouragement.

I shared how when I first had Sadie I would wake up several times a night and hear a loud voice in my head yelling, "down syndrome". At first, before she developed a personality and started interacting with us... she was mostly down syndrome. Now, sometimes, I have to be reminded she has down syndrome. Now when I look at Sadie I see a smart, sassy, cute, lovable, sweet, hardworking, stubborn, funny, beautiful little girl. She has soooo much of my heart. She, like all my girls, is the reason I wake up in the morning and the reason I feel so blessed.

The first year will most likely be hard for them. Alot of ruling out different medical conditions that go along with ds is done. Most of which come out negative. But as they spend more time with him and see his personality develop I look forward to watching them fall in love and sharing him with the world. My heart is so full for them today. I wish I could go squeeze me and hold me some little baby boy! I am so grateful for Amber's family. They love her so much and are there to support her, her husband, and her sweet little boy. I know it maybe awhile before she is ready to hear about all the resources out there, or even talk with me; but I look forward to watching this little boy enrich their family and bring blessings they never knew possible. How lucky they are!!!

PS- Welcome to Holland is a poem for families with disabilities. It about how sometimes you don't arrive where you planned on going; but there is beauty and great things in store for you in Holland :)
http://www.our-kids.org/Archives/Holland.html

24 hours of Summer Fun- Hannah

2010-08-27T12:23:00.000-07:00

It all started with Thing 1 and Thing 2 working on their Ninja Skills. I thought they looked more like Gangstas... but they swore they were 100% Ninja's with MAD Ninja Skills :)

After six hours the day before, they spent another 4 hours at Dance Team practice for the Jr. High. All the girls walked to our house for some pizza and pool time :)

Hannah, Selina, and Maddie couldn't get enough of each other so after another 2 hours of dance (Hannah) they met up again for a slumber party! Love these girls together... they can have so much fun doing crazy (little girl) things :)

Dear Hannah,

I love you! I love the way you love life! Please enjoy the rest of summer because it is almost over and you are overbooked for Jr. High. I will promise you can have a few more campouts in the back yard, a few more slumber parties, and swim everyday. All you have to promise is to be you.. and laugh and smile a lot!!!!

Love, Mom

What happens when you keep ruining your phone from water damage?

2010-08-26T16:52:00.000-07:00

You have to work hard to pay back the

$50 insurance fee your mom loaned you!

Look at Madison... first time washing a car at a carwash!
My car was so clean (inside and out) = happy mommy! :)

Wordless Wednesday- Just being Hannieo

2010-08-25T07:43:00.000-07:00

Maddie Moo... this is for you!

2010-08-23T15:28:00.000-07:00

Miss Maddie Moo!

Miss Madison has started High School... can you believe I have one starting High School, one graduating High School this year, one starting Jr. High, and one in Kindergarten? We went to pick up M and K's schedule today and tomorrow will be yearbook and senior pictures so I will post pictures tomorrow. Anyway, yesterday Madison called me out and said I never post anything about her on my blog (hence the reason for starting with her name!) I decided this post would be dedicated to her :)

Madison loved Jr. High. She was on the dance team and served as Captain last year. She is super social and loves to be with her friends. Maddie (as her friends call her) is also a super smart kid. She works hard on her schoolwork and just scored super high on her writing skills for the state standardize test. She is beautiful, has an incredible voice, and has a way of getting lots of attention.

I consider Madison a middle child (technically she is one of two middle children; but she is the middle of the older kids) and boy does she act like a middle child. I never believed in birth order until Madison :) That is not a bad thing, just something that helps me understand what drives her and why it is soooo important to her to get proper acknowledgment and attention. She is a super sensitive person who has a lot of compassion; but is strong and doesn't show when she is offended or hurt by others. She wants to be a good person and is a loyal and thoughtful friend. Madison also is very intune with the spirit and understands why Sadie is the way she is. I am excited for this year. Madison gave up her spot on the High School Dance Team (that was really hard) and had decided to attend an alternative High School. And let me tell you, just because it is alternative does not mean it is easy. This school is scholar driven, WASC approved, UC approved, and has been awarded a Top School for many years. It is more of a researched based school that prepares kids for college (no more reading 20 pages, answering five questions, and looking for bolded words). This year is going to be a year of healing and growing for Ms. Maddie Moo--- I am so excited to watch her blossom! I love you!!!

Permits (Appointments) for Sadie

2010-08-19T08:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning was Sadie's "permit" (her word that took us a long time to figure out what she was saying) appointment with the Orthopedic Dr. for new inserts. We had to wait a long time so we worked on letters and numbers; but she made herself comfortable on the waiting table. It's really sad that a six year old knows the drill for a Dr's visit :( Anyway, the Dr. looked at her walking, the structure of her feet and legs, and mobility of her hips. While looking at her hips she keep studying her little white shorts. I didn't think to much of it until a couple hours later at home while helping her get back on her shorts Hannah noticed they were backwards. The whole day she was walking around with side pockets and a button on her butt.

Second permit: Hair appointment. I really really can't stand long bangs- and by the look of Sadie she doesn't like them either! As soon as they hit her eyebrows and she's looking through piles of hair I start to go bonkers! Unforunately, I have been forbidden by Scott to cut bangs because of a recent "accident".

Here are her new bangs. She was such a little squirrel and would not let me get a good picture. Sadie couldn't wait to see her big sisters and show off her new hairdo! While in the hairstylist I explained how much I can't stand long bangs and can't believe how fast they grow. Because I don't have a boy or other girls with bangs I am just used to seeing the girls need a haircut when it gets a little ratty. Out of all four of my girls Sadie is the only one who has had little girl bangs. They asked why I would give her bangs and no one else. I explained that I felt like the bangs gave a little body to her thin Down Syndrome hair and helped soften some of the ds features. It was funny to watch their faces as they tried to convince me they "had no idea she had down syndrome. We just thought she was really cute". It's ok ladies, I already know!

Wordless Wednesday- Teenage boredom!

2010-08-18T13:24:00.000-07:00

Hannah age 11

Madison age 14

Summer Free Movie :) Finally!!

2010-08-17T13:40:00.000-07:00

We finally hit the "Summer Free Movies" this year.

We saw Space Chimps with Sadie, Hannah, Madison, and Aubrey.

The best part of the whole movie was looking over at Sadie

with this big tub of popcorn between her legs.

Bad News: She had a very hard time sharing with everyone :(
Good News: Sadie has finally mastered sitting through a movie...
it's the small things in life that bring soooo much joy :)

I find the best way to get pictures on to my blog quickly is by taking a picture with my phone and sending it to facebook. Then I save the facebook picture onto my computer and upload into my blog. The only bad thing about this is the picture quailty is poor. This December when I get to upgrade my phone I will spend a little extra money to get a phone with better picture quaility; but for now--- deal with it :)

A Big Mommy Rant!

2010-08-16T19:35:00.000-07:00

Today has been an extremely hard day to be a mom to my children. There has been a lot of yelling, tears, and hurtful words spread around our house. Regardless to say, I'm tired! Most of all I'm sad. Sad that some of my children have a hard time looking beyond their own opinions and seeing the reason behind the decision. All four of my kids are super different. One is an intellect, who has a hard time fitting in socially but has an awesome sense of humor and loyalty. Another is super social, who often makes decisions on what feels good now; but is kind and determined. Yet another is the life of the party one minute and feels like the world is after another; but she has a great sense of humor and is very supportive. Then of course is the stubborn, funny, grumpy, happy, loving, angry, talented, smart little pea we seem to all stop and cheer for.

The hard thing is it seems no one is cheering for anyone but Sadie. Not even cheering for themselves. There are enough people out in the world who want to be better than everyone else... why can't we as a family enjoy each other's accomplishments and look past the other's faults?

If there is one thing I know about parenting my four very different children is that there is no ONE way to parent them. There are at least a half of dozen. Sometimes the "spirit of the law" is more important than the "letter of the law" and what some would consider "rewarding a bad behavior" I would say is making a compromise and picking my battles.

Parenting is one of the hardest things I have ever done.. harder than being Primary President four times, Young Women's President at 19, getting married when I was still a teenager, or caring for a very sick baby. At the end of the day, I hope my kids can forgive me for my short temper, accept my apologizes, trust I know what I am doing, and understand I love them. In return.... I will try to look past the broken door jam, messy floor, and missed dance class!

Some Silly Sadie Sunday pixs

2010-08-15T18:38:00.000-07:00

Every Sunday after Primary Sadie gives her own

talks and prayers while we clean-up.

Madison trying to keep Sadie from putting
her mouth on the microphone :)

Conducting her favorite song (for this moment) "Once There Was a Snowman"

"I'm finally free!"

Saturday + Awesome Big Sister = Fort Time!

2010-08-14T13:00:00.000-07:00

Being 51/2 years older than Sadie qualifies as a good reason not to "hangout" with her little sister; but Hannah always makes time for her little buddy!

Fort created by Hannah (with a little direction from Sadie) Oh, and Hannah would like me to add that she is "rockin' awesome" :)

Guess What Kiersten's Getting?

2010-08-13T09:45:00.000-07:00

Her Driver's Permit! In a couple of hours I will be picking up Kiersten's certificate of online driver's class completion and taking her to the DMV to test for her permit. By next week she will be on the road with her first two hours of Behind the Wheel Training!

It's been a rough summer for K... she spent most of it recovering from a severe case of Mono. I think the fact she has been stuck in the house this whole summer was motativation enough to overcome her fear of driving and get her permit! Funny thing.... I think I'm emotionally ready for her to drive too :)

This is going to be an eventful year for Kiersten. She will be driving, finishing up her Personal Progress, her best friend will be leaving for his mission, and she graduating High School a year early. Looking forward to a year full of accomplishments and growth!

"True Friends Are The Family We Choose"

2010-08-12T10:18:00.000-07:00

This year has been a rough year for a few of my girls when it comes to friends! It has forced me to ponder what defines a "True Friend" and basically I think it comes down to the belief that a "true friend" is someone you want to be the best YOU when they are around. Someone who accepts you for who you are; but is willing to encourage you to become a better you. Who calls you out when you are wrong; but stands by you when you are making things better.

A True Friend is someone who you can spend hours

doing nothing with and leave feeling happy complete.

A TRUE FRIEND is the family we choose!

One Word Wednesday - by Sadie

2010-08-11T10:43:00.000-07:00

"GA-Prize!"

Just a few Dance Pictures

2010-06-09T19:37:00.000-07:00

Sadie's "Born to Entertain" - her third year to perform

Kiersten (16) and Madison (14)

Val (friend), Madison, and Hannah (11)

Sadie and Hannah

Sadie and Kinsey (both 5)

Kiersten in "Disturbia"
(Jazz, she also performed in Tap, Ballet, and Lyrical)

Madison in "Bollywood"

(this was singing- she also did two taps numbers,

a jazz, and lyrical)

"Bollywood" really was a crowd pleaser

Hannah "A Star is Born"

(Jazz- She did 2 Jazz numbers, 2 tap numbers,

a singing number, Hip Hop, and closer)

Guess Who Is Getting Her Forever Family???

2010-06-04T20:33:00.000-07:00

TATIANA!
You can follow her family and their journey at
http://fillmoresjourneytoanna.blogspot.com/

I Never Claimed She Would Be Academically Equal To Her Peers! :(

2010-02-11T13:28:00.000-08:00

Today I am a little sad. Disappointed. Frustrated. Concerned. Irritated. SAD.... As I was dropping off Sadie for school I stuck my head into her general education mainstreaming class and asked her teacher what time the Valentine's party was and if I needed to send Valentine's for Sadie. During the conversation the teacher asked how Sadie was after the last couple of weeks and all the medical things we were dealing with.

Here's where I need to give some background. This particular teacher was not my first choice (because she has not taught K that long and has never taught anyone with ds) but has surprised me as being the perfect fit for Sadie. She is organized, calm, has a quiet classroom (that helps Sadie hear), and has been for the most part super supportive of Sadie. During her IEP I was worried because she seemed to underestimate Sadie's abilities and offered to have Sadie join them "during a non-academic" time when Sadie had an option to "just play in the playhouse" everyday. I knew Sadie would surprise her and show her she really is a smart-cookie!

Back to our conversation: The teacher told me how impressed she was with Sadie in the last few weeks. Here's basically the conversation, "She has been opening books and enjoying them! She even scribbled on the paper when we did a pencil/paper activity. Yesterday, she repeated some of our sightwords during class.... I was so happy". WHAT THE CRAP!!!

I repeat... WHAT THE CRAP!! Sadie has been "reading- looking at pictures and repeating or making up stories, even tracking words from left to right" FOREVER. She has issues with fine motor... but she can write several letters and draws pictures. She knows most of her letters and all of her sounds. She even can read about 8 sight words all by herself. WHAT THE CRAP!!

All this time in the classroom with Sadie and she still thinks of her as a toddler. I tried to make light of the situation and said, "Well then, I guess she will be ready for Kindergarten next year. haha ." You know what she said??? "Not without an aide... I could never teach her and attend to the rest of my class."

No Duh!! I would never put my kid in a general education class without an aide. So, again, I try to make light of the situation, "I'm glad you think so... your recommendation will help me get an aide when I ask at her IEP. Of course I would never send her to typical classroom without a one-on-one aide" For heaven's sake... she is a runner!!

All these months and she still has no clue Sadie is a Superstar. This is what really pissed me off. In front of several parents she told me, "I've been making a list for the IEP of all the things she can do; but there is a list of a lot she can't do also".

Back off lady cause I'm gonna come unglued!!! My response (of course while showing great body language- body turning, arms folded, firm lips), "I never said Sadie would be academically with her peers; but she IS benefiting from being in your class."

Uh oh.... the teacher took a step towards me, glanced around, and looked me in the eyes and her face soften. "I'm sorry Mrs. Teague. I didn't mean to sound so harsh... I shouldn't have talked to you out here... maybe we can talk later."

Now tears in my eyes, "Yes that would be more appropriate!"

My husband told me to just think about it for a day or so. He doesn't think it was all that bad. So, today... I'm just going to cry about it. I wish she knew the real Sadie. I wish she could see her potential. I wish she could see the benefits of having her in general ed. I wish she was one of her advocates. I wish she knew how hard and embarrassing having her say those things infront of other parents was.

I wish there was a perfect placement for MY PERFECT CHILD!!

Took the Words Right Out of My Mouth... Welcome to Holland Nella Cordelia and Family!!!

2010-02-09T06:32:00.001-08:00

My memories of the day Sadie was born remind me of a flashback on a TV show. The whole experience is kinda blurry and the voices seem distant- like you are looking through a long tube straining to hear the conversations. We did not know until birth that she would come with something extra. I'm grateful for that! Scott would have loved to know earlier, collected information, prepared himself. I'm too much of a worrier. After hours of laboring and bringing a child into the world I believe a mother has no choice but to understand the miracle of life and it's purpose.

Last night someone posted the link to this beautiful story about a mother's recent birth experience. It is full of raw and new feelings and reminds me soooo much of those first few days of Sadie's life. I don't want to spoil it; but I am especially grateful for her honesty and account of the first few moments after they placed her sweet baby on her chest. Warning......... be prepared for a good cry!

Nella Cordelia's Story

Disneyland... in the rain!!!

2010-02-08T08:40:00.000-08:00

I should sooooo save this one for Wordless Wednesday!!!! Yes, I am the proud mother of that crazy girl... Hannieo :)

Hannah and Linsey chasing ducks down Main Street :)

This is all four girls on California Screamin. Kiersten thought if they went on a fast ride that went upside down they might dry out.... Instead they were pelted with rain!!

Kiersten very wet!

Kiersten and Kimmi

Linsey and Hannah

Sunday Thought

2010-02-07T19:31:00.000-08:00

For so long I have fought having my identity being so closely linked to having a child with special needs. I dreaded being known as "the family with the little girl with down syndrome". I would much rather be known as "the cool family with the four girls and the awesome mom and groovy dad :)" As much as I have fought it, I have finally realized that Down Syndrome has become a huge part of our identity. It has shaped our values as a family, how we function as a family, and how I look at parenting. It affects how much energy I have, how much patience I have, and what my priorites are. That being said, I wouldn't change our family for the world (that's actually a lie... I would change the teenage bickering, the fighting over clothes, the hormones, and Sadie's incredible stubborness!.

We have been blessed to have Sadie in our family. She has taught us about love, compassion, and the gift of life. We are also lucky to understand Sadie's eternal role and the love Heavenly Father has for her. The following is a poem I found on another blog a couple of weeks ago that explains so of our beliefs.
http://obyandtarabennett.blogspot.com/2008/02/heavens-very-special-child.html

A meeting was held quite far from Earth
"It's time again for another birth,"
Said the angels to the Lord above,
"This special child will need much love."
His progress may seem very slow
Accomplishments he may not show
And he'll require extra care
From the folks he meets way down there.
He may not run or laugh or play
His thoughts may seem quite far away
In many ways he won't adapt
And he'll be known as handicapped.
So let's be careful where he's sent
We want his life to be content
Please, Lord, find the parents who
Will do a special job for you.
They will not realize right away
The leading role they're asked to play
But with this child sent from above
Come stronger faith and richer love.
And soon they'll know the privilege given
In caring for this gift from heaven
Their precious charge, so meek and mild,
Is heaven's very special child.

~Edna Massimilla

Lesson learned again... maybe this time I will remember!!

2010-02-06T14:52:00.000-08:00

I've been a little quiet this week in blogland. Alot has happened in the short span of a week and to say the least it was a bit stressful. However, I was blessed to relearn a lesson that I know I will have to remember often as a mom of a little girl sportin' an extra chromosome. Actually, this lesson is one of great value as a mom to any of my four girls :)

Here's just one of our wild adventures from last week: On Thursday I took Sadie out of school early to go to the Opthamologist. On my way to the appointment we dropped Kiersten off at her Spanish class and headed back to the freeway. The road was pretty empty and I was going through a light. Out of nowhere a couple teenage boys (who were most likely more interested in their loud music instead of following the road signs) turned into me. I have no idea how we escaped an accident, I actually had to stick my head out the window to check to see if they hit us! Anyway, even though they did not hit us Sadie was thrown around a little in her carseat. She started screaming and complaining about her head. We drove straight to the Dr. and while trying to get to his waiting room she wanted to get down and walk up the steps. She looked like a drunk sailor... she couldn't walk up the steps and had a hard time controlling her legs. The Dr. evaluated her for any neurological injuries and it was decided that she had reverse whiplash.

After getting her first prescription for glasses :) we picked up Kiersten and drove home. Sadie blessed us with crying and complaining again the whole way home (not usual). Minutes after I arrived home her pediatrician called and told me her xrays taken on Monday showed some instability of her neck (AAI) and said she would need an MRI right away to measure more accurately. I shared our "near miss" with the Dr. and she ordered an MRI for that night--- without sedation! Needless to say, that was a disaster and we had to reschedule the sedated MRI for the following Tuesday. Until we knew more about the degree of instability she would be on limited physical activity. First words out of the Dr's mouth, "NO BOUNCE HOUSES". What??? This is Sadie we are talking about. The girl who talks daily of her bounce house party (last June) and who rolls around the floor doing her own lyrical solos :) limited activity is not something I would welcome with this little girl!

Let me give you a little background on the whole AAI thing. Kids with Down Syndrome often have problems with their loose ligaments and AAI is actually somewhat common (10-30%) with only 1% being symptomatic. Unless the space is big enough or unless they are symptomatic the usual course of treatment is monitoring and limited activity. If there is a chance of spinal cord compression or nerve damage they will fuse the spine together with metal coverings that are bolted in the spine. Sadie has actually hurt her neck several times in the last six months and although we were following up with some regular screening... we were worried about AAI because of her ???symptoms???. So, I was a basketcase. On the good end... she would have limited activity--- on the severe end... she would have major surgery. CRAP!!

I hate this part of down syndrome. The part that you are always ruling out or treating the MANY possible diseases, disorders, conditions, etc. that come with the extra chromosome. I hate the "time bomb" that I am always worried will go off!

That's when I found this website. http://www.elizaswish.org/ about a sweet little girl, Eliza, and her beautiful family. Eliza's body is rapidly deteriorating. She is blind, can not eat, doesn't have any control of her muscles.... she is trapped in her body. As I looked through her website I didn't see her family getting ready to scream and cry because they don't have control of their daughters health. I didn't see pity and frustration. I didn't see them consumed with all the worries of tomorrow.... I'm sure there are many tears shed and sad moments.... but their website was full of sweet stories that showed me they were living for today! Their family spends today celebrating and enjoying their time with their sweet little girl. They read to her, sing to her, and enjoy reading about how Eliza inspires others to serve.

The night before Sadie's MRI, while reading through Eliza's Blog, I was reminded to put aside tomorrow's worries and enjoy today! Down Syndrome is like a grab bag of medical surprises. Sadie will always have routine screenings and countless Dr. appointments. I can't promise that I won't be worried; but I hope I will put things into perspective. I will try to live life like Eliza's family.... enjoy today and not fill my mind or thoughts with worries about tomorrow!

P.S. Sadie's MRI came back good... she only has mild AAI and will have to have xrays every two to three years. That means no diving, no tackle football, and no gymnastics. I am happy to report that Sadie will still be able to enjoy jump houses (by herself)!!!

Hmmmmmm.....

2010-01-22T10:58:00.000-08:00

Speak when you are angry, and you'll make the best speech you'll ever regret. - Dr. Laurence J. Peter

Reene Garcia posted this on facebook. It got me thinkin'....

Scott told me awhile ago he missed the spunky go-get'em person he met and who would do anything to correct an injustice or fight for the underdog. I miss her too... not even sure when I lost her. I think it all began when I started caring what others thought about me and I got burned too many times- things have backfired on me and I've ended up looking like the one at fault.

Mostly, I'm pretty sure that "spunky go-get'em" girl went totally MIA five and a half years ago when a genetically enhanced little girl taught me:

1) if you're gonna fight.... you fight for life or the quality of it.

2) if you pick your battles... when it's really important people will stop and listen.

3) and it is in my best interest to save my energy and fight for things that really matter to my family.

I still stick up for the underdog; but I really don't care to school customer service people who are rude and let them know they are in the wrong profession. I just roll my eyes if someone cuts in line. I pity, but don't confront, others who cheat our government. And I don't loose sleep over people who constantly choose to have drama in their lives. Just sayin'

I think I'll post this quote on my front door- both sides. Just to remind myself that all that drama should be left outside my home; because we already have enough drama to keep ourselves occupied!

Meet the "Doofi"- What they have taught me about ladybugs, teenagers, and birth order.

2010-01-21T13:14:00.000-08:00

Emily, Madison (yes, mine), and Mikaela are lovingly to referred to as the "Doofi" by my oldest Kiersten (age 15) and myself. Madison and Mikaela are the real Doofi; Emily is only honorary for reasons I will not say so M & M's feelings are not hurt ;). As you can see they make pretty cute ladybugs.

With the exception of Madison, I really don't think any of them like ladybugs. However, they are teenage girls who are insecure, self absorbed, timid, vain, and want to see the boys turn their heads as they float across the gym floor at the Halloween dance. The formula to make three awkward 13 year old girls turn into confident, happy and cute girls.... tight leggings, red legwarmers, antennae, wings and a tutu. Results= some pretty happy girls who had a great time.

I think they are a pretty well-balanced group of friends. Here's why.. see, I believe in birth order being a big part of your personality. I didn't... until I had kids- then, they proved it to be true. Of course there are always exceptions to the rules; but the "Doofi" are pretty case book birth order kind of girls.

Emily is a sweet rough and tough girl who is a big sister to one little sister and a little sister to two big brothers. Being a bigger sister makes her sensitive to others but she doesn't loose sleep over it. She has a great sense of humor that includes hooting and howling for beautiful boys on the big screen. Her big brothers help her find enjoyment in physical activities and helps her feel confident around boys. Even when she likes a boys she may treat them like a friend or a big brother. Since she is the oldest girl she is serious about school and responsible.

Madison is the middle of three older girls. Typical middle child who makes sure everyone knows she is present and knows what she wants. She is independent, reliable, and resourceful. Her major downfall is that she lives for attention... that is a recipe for problems in itself. She is the ring-leader, a supportive and sensitive friend, and knows how to fly under the radar if she is in pursuit of something important. She dances and sings and loves lots of attention.

Mikeala is the oldest. She is the baby... until recently she didn't even cut her own food. She is innocent, kind, motherly, happy, a bit clueless, and a lot dependent. She's still figuring out problem solving skills but is a true and faithful friend. She is a music guru and is keen to the "spirit".

I love the "Doofi". Not only have they provided K and I with hours of entertainment they have also showed me what good friends look like. They come from different families, different places in birth order, and have different goals and likes; but they are one in friendship.

Wordless Wednesday-- "Ain't it so"

2010-01-20T10:18:00.000-08:00

My daughter's friend, Kimmi (age 16), tagged me in this photo on facebook. She took this picture of Sadie and wisely captioned it. I'm not sure if Kimmi knew how prophetic she was being.....

Monday Memories.... Three Visitors, a Hospital Room, and Some News!

2010-01-18T18:42:00.000-08:00

I tried hard to think of something to post today but my mind wasn't willing to venture much farther than this post I came across yesterday. It was written in October of 2008; but the memory happened a couple of months after Sadie was born.

Here it goes:

I've been thinking a lot of an experience I had just after the birth of Sadie. Three of my friends came to visit me in the hospital. They all sat at the end of my bed admiring Sadie and looking forward to the births of two of their children in the following few weeks. I felt there was no better time than the present so I blurted out, "She has Down Syndrome". What happened next has been one of the best lessons I have ever experienced.

My friend Kay, who had 3 children and was expecting her forth in the next two weeks and who grew up with two deaf parents, exclaimed, "Oh, she's so cute... doesn't she have the cutiest toes? It looks like she is giving us a peace sign, " (because of the big gap). She just kept talking and talking about everything... I wondered if she had even heard the news I had just given her.

My friend Alison, who was expecting her first child the next month, sat there with a with a deer caught in headlights look. I don't think she said another word and I was sure she was lost in thoughts of, "if Kari didn't know she was going to have a kid with ds... what about ME?"

And then there was my sweet little friend Ayumi she sat there with tears in her eyes, got up and hugged me and started asking questions about what was next and about her health.

Everyone had a different reaction. I believe those reactions were all born from different experiences they had in life. Each had different upringings and and different personalities. All three were there in the room with me at the same time hearing the same things; but, each of them heard it differently. Kay lived around disabled people all her life. She knew that things would be just fine. She was there to celebrate a new life. Alison was newly married, expecting her first child. They were perfect and nothing seriously life altering had ever happened to her. Ayumi, she grew up in Japan. She grew up in a society where people with disabilities are hidden, killed or shipped away.

I learned that day that I could never control how others reacted. I needed to look beyond their reaction and wonder... why do they think that way? Now today, when we are out and about, I often see how people react to Sadie. Sometimes they turn their heads. Sometimes they look at me with pity. But most of the time, they smile. They see how happy we are. They see the joy and love Sadie brings to our family.

I can't control how others feel. The only thing I can control is my own thoughts and emotions. I can however, hope that maybe as we fully accept and rejoice in our litte ones others will see their beauty and worth. And if not- it won't change how I feel one bit!!!

"Resolve to Live with the Spirit of Love and Forgiveness"

2010-01-17T13:31:00.000-08:00

Today during the satellite broadcast of Stake Conference Elder Jeffery R. Holland talked about Forgiveness. I was touched by the thought that the first three talks seem to speak to me. As I sat there, warm with the Spirit, I had an overwhelming feeling that Elder Holland's talk was written for me. Elder Holland, who I love listening to, brought up several good points about the principle of forgiveness. He wanted us to look beyond the major sins that require visiting with the bishop and concentrate on the "little things".

He challenged us to "unload the excess baggage and start forgiving ourselves". His talk was about letting go of the hurt or grudges, no matter how valid they are, and moving on. Elder Holland cautioned us that when we have a negative view of ourselves we are more apt to have a negative view of others. Also, in order to find good in ourselves we must be willing to be "pleasant, patient, and forgiving" of ourselves and others everyday.

I guess I always thought of forgiveness as something to ask of other people or to give to others. Forgiving myself has never really been something I have put any thought or effort in. When getting rid of all the anger, hurt, or baggage we may be holding we open our lives to peace and happiness. I hope that Elder Holland's New Year's challenge of "Resolving to live with the Spirit of love and Forgiveness" will become part of my daily life. My hope is that as I start to live this principal my life, thoughts, and health will be healed and I will feel the peace I've been searching for.

Hannieo... Where did the time go???

2010-01-16T17:07:00.000-08:00

Just yesterday my little Hannieo looked like this! Look how sweet and little and innocent and bright-eyed she was. This is about the same time she learned how to spell her first word - Zoo. Which she so smartly turned into Boo... which quickly turned into Boob. Yes, from the beginning Hannah has had a flair for words and a great sense of humor.
Case in point- letter to her Kindergarten teacher:

Dear Mrs. H,
I love You!
BOOBS
Love, Hannieo

Where did the time go? Six years later
Hannah has moved on from writing
about Boobs and now is sporting
a pair of her own. She is still
sweet, kind, funny, and bright-eyed...
but now she is curvy, tall, has
her own phone and yes---
she has a crush! Later this month she
will be getting spacers and on Feb. 1st
she will getting her braces. I am proud
of the Young Women she is becoming...
I just wish it wasn't going so fast~~~~~~~

Ms. Kinsey... a true friend!

2010-01-15T12:27:00.000-08:00

I should be cleaning... getting ready for my FIL and his girlfriend who are coming over for dinner... but I'm taking a quick break to share someone special and dear to my heart.

This is Kinsey....

I met Kinsey and her Mom Stacy at the dance studio where my older girls (and now Sadie) dance. Kinsey is three months younger than Sadie and much wiser than most adults I know. This statement may sound strange about a five year old; but if you ever met her I know you would agree.

See, I have a bit of an issue when people treat Sadie like a mascot or a pet. Stacy and Kinsey have always treated Sadie as a friend. It could have something to do with Stacy, Kinsey's mom, teaching Kindergarten- but I tend to think we just happen to find us some real angels. They have always seen Sadie for her accomplishments and a abilities. Kinsey is truly happy to see Sadie and Stacy is always supportive and encouraging without that awkward "cheer on the underdog" vibe.

Lately I've been thinking about what great friends they are and something has been bugging me about the whole thing. See, I know that in Kinsey and Stacy's eyes Sadie is just a little girl who happens to have down syndrome. For that I am eternally grateful. But, something maybe some of you have never thought about is what friends of our kids have to sacrifice in order to stand beside them.

I'm not even sure how to put this in to words- so bear with me if this seems a little scattered. Besides being kind, supportive, and sensitive- Kinsey is a super bright, happy, outgoing, funny, gentle, and bug-loving little girl. She is cute and sweet and her mommies best friend... all qualities worthy of sainthood! Unfortunately, I've noticed that sometimes when she is with Sadie she is overlooked as the girls all run and hug the studio "mascot" Sadie! Yes, I am grateful the girls all love and love on Sadie; but sometimes my heart goes out to this sweet little girl who is looked over solely because she isn't sporting an extra chromosome. Stacy has voiced her excitement about Sadie and Kinsey performing in the same Christmas groups and after a few times I finally told her how I didn't want Kinsey to have to stay behind and "help" Sadie. That didn't seem to phase her one bit. Infact, Stacy told me that the friendship and lessons Kinsey will get from Sadie will be more important than moving forward with any group!

Regardless of what group they end up in or whether they continue in the same dance class or not-- it is apparent to me that both Sadie and I have found some true friends. Friends who love us for who we are. Friends who will stand beside us even if that means they may be looked over or passed up. Friends who understand that we are all children of God. Friends who understand the true meaning of FRIENDSHIP!

I hope that Sadie and I can be worthy of this friendship. I pray that we will be good friends in return. We love you little Ms. Kinsey! Stacy, thank you for raising a terrific daughter.

Not "Why"... But "How"

2010-01-14T14:24:00.000-08:00

You know when you think you have an answer to a prayer only to question that answer after something happens? You know... like when you know you are suppose to move somewhere (let's just say Utah) and your husband gets a new calling (lets say in the bishopric)? This isn't the first time this has happened to our family. It always seems to have something to do with moving and callings. My question my friends is.... why??? Why is a calling more important than quality of life for my girls? Why must we live in a small house in the middle of polluted, ugly, loud, crowded Californi? Why must we have to stay in a ward where my girls are either a year too old or too young to be part of "the group"? Why do we have to live in a community where status, clothing, and objects are soooo important?

Unfortunately, I don't have the answers! I just know for now we are remaining citizens of the good old state of California and I will try to stop asking "why" and start asking "how". How can I teach my girls the importance of humility and wise spending? How can I help my girls feel included in a ward that is happy with the friends they have had since birth? How do I dejunk so we can live comfortably in the house we have? How do I trust that "my answer" is "His answer"?

Enough questions.... for now I will enjoy my warm sunny days that don't require shoveling snow before exiting my driveway :) Because, instead of wishing for something I don't have- I will spend my energy enjoying the blessings we have been given!

Halloween- better late than never!

2010-01-13T18:30:00.000-08:00

Kiersten
I love this picture because it shows a little of her personality. K is super shy and often hides how truly funny she is. She definitely has a great sense of humor; although it is smart humor that is often over my head and beyond my academic reference. She and her "boy" were matching 50's people.... and somehow she worked me to think I gave her the costume idea :)

Madison
She and her friends we ladybugs! They got the best group award at the dance. Gotta leave it to Madison to make a super cute bug and always find a way of showing that cute little body!

Hannah with Friends

(I didn't realize I hadn't uploaded a picture of her by herself)

Originally she wanted to be the scarecrow from the Wizard of Oz; but she changed her mind after seeing this Swiss Miss costume I bought for Madison (madison vetoed it!) It was perfect for our little blonde young woman who never stops bellowing a tune :)

Sadie (Purpel Fairwee)

After convincing her that she could not be Tinkerbell again this year Sadie decided she wanted to be a "purpel fairwee". Sadie loved Halloween this year! She loved yelling Trick or Treat and enjoyed knocking on all our neighbors doors!

Wordless Wednesday... Hannieo!!!

2010-01-13T12:07:00.000-08:00

2010-01-12T18:00:00.000-08:00

Well, it's been awhile since I've posted anything so I thought I would start with our Christmas Card. As usual it wasn't easy to get a good picture of all four girls; but with the help from our friend Mike he was able to blend a few pictures into one pretty good one. I can't believe how old my girls are getting!

Kiersten will be turning 16 this year... which means she will be learning to drive and legal to date. Both come with freedoms that both scare and excite me! She is finishing her Sophomore year and will be dual enrolled in High School and College next year. Her school does not offer Spanish 3 or Chemistry so she will be going to the local Jr. College for those classes.

Madison is counting down the days until she is 14 and can start attending the Youth Dances. She is super social, a great student, a captain on the dance team, and working on performing a lyrical solo this year for competitions. She loves fashion and making boys turn their heads :)

Hannah just turned 11 and is finishing her last year in elementary school. She is full of spunk and laughter and often in the middle of trouble! She is almost as tall as her sisters and has bigger feet. Hannah is competing with Dance Divas again this year and is excited to tryout for the jr. high team. Hannah, Madison, and Kiersten just finished another season of treeligting and the Parade at Knotts Berry Farm. Someday I will post pictures!!

Sadie is smart, funny, stubborn, naughty, cute, and has us all wrapped around her fingers. She is a playground celebrity and has really thrived this year in school. She is enrolled in a Kindergarten SDC class (where she is the only girl) and mainstreams into general ed for part of the day. Next year she will be fully included into a general ed kindergarten.

Scott is busy with work and traveling. He spends most of his free time on facebook, surfing, or playing with the girls. He was just called into the Bishopric after over two years as Elder's Quorum President. In January he was booted out of his office and sent home to work... which is both fun and annoying for all of us. We love having him here to talk... but sometimes he has to take refuge into the garage because we are too loud. Also, it seems to me he is always working.... he starts up his computer at five am, after taking Kiersten to seminary, and it doesn't shut off until bedtime.

I'm trying to enjoy the few hours I have free from little ones... mostly to clean, take Kiersten to classes, or watch a little Monk or Charmed. I am coming to the end of my first year as Primary President in our new ward (guess fourth times a charm) and have enjoyed spending time with all our little ones. This year I hope to create order in our home, become healthy, and find time to develop a few talents (maybe photography or playing volleyball again). Another goal- keep a better blog :)

Buddy Walk Preparations

2009-11-07T07:20:00.000-08:00

So, today is set aside for finishing Buddy Walk preparations. We are working on 30 new signs. I used my cricket to cut out 30 sets of "Sadie's" and Scott printed a different picture of Sadie for each sign. This morning I'm going to recruit the girls to help me put them all together and then I will go laminate them. Then I have go to Costco and pick up the sandwiches, cookies, chips, and drinks. I think we will individually wrap everything because it will be hard to get more than one table into the stadium and then we can put them into containers on the floor??? I know, not the most party friendly.... but I'm trying to be practical :) I also have a few more t-shirts to deliver and I want to make sure everyone gets to bed early because we have the primary program before the Buddy Walk tomorrow. Did I mention everyone is still sick???? I think I'm going to go take a bottle of vitamin C, some Tylenol cold, and wake up these sleepy heads so they can become my little "Cinderella's".

I've Been Attacked By The Blog Troll!!!!

2009-11-05T20:18:00.000-08:00

What the heck??? I haven't been on my blog for months... ok, almost a year and it's been attacked. Since we just bought a laptop for Kiersten my computer time has freed up and I decided it was time to get back into blogging. So, I logged in tonight and saw the most hideous thing. Somehow my cute background turned into this thing with lips all over it! Like some valentine background with lipstick kisses everywhere. Just hideous!! Anyway, finding a new background has taken all my blogtime for today... so I will have to try again tomorrow :) BTW... I'm not sold on the new one either; but, it will do until The Cutest Blog on the Block gets some new backgrounds for blogspot.

2009-09-29T10:22:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for Buddy Walk 2009?

More information coming....

Wordless Wednesday- So you think your safe just cause I didn't give birth to you???

2009-01-14T20:35:00.000-08:00

Moral of the story- if it's on my camera... it's mine!!!

This is Camille- she not really my kid, just stays at my house a lot! I'm saving this one for her wedding montage :)

Wordless Wednesday - Sisterly Love!

2008-10-22T18:33:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Children, Beautiful Cause - Day 17

2008-10-17T19:47:00.000-07:00

Look at these beautiful children. Reece's Rainbow has helped find many of them homes and families. Sometimes I wonder how one can give up so much time, money and resources for a cause. I understand now. There is more to life than new cars, vacations, upgraded kitchens and Disneyland passes. Heavenly Father loves each of his children- reguardless of geography, government and economics. Please help me pray that every child will find a loving home and family to care for them.

My Faith in Charity Restored! Day 16

2008-10-16T19:23:00.000-07:00

When Scott and I were newly married we always made sure to donate or adopt a family for Christmas with the little extra cash we had. It was done anonymously, and I would stay anonymous, but today I have charity on my mind. We would find a gift for each child and make sure to send a gift card for food or money in an envelope. Sometimes we would do "the 12 days before Christmas" and leave things on a door step. We have even had the girls pick names of the tree at Toys R Us or Walmart and buy a gift for someone they didn't even know. It didn't matter... I loved serving others and wanted my children to find that love and think of others before themselves.

I remember one day during the holiday season seeing a young mother wrestling with several young children. Many baskets full with toys, electronics, clothing going to home to be wrapped for the holidays passed her by. In her basket, was milk, cereal, bread and some diapers. All of the sudden a man came out of no where and handed her a $50 bill. She looked surprised and immediately tried to give it back. He just nodded and said very quietly, "I've been waiting to give this to someone who deserves it." And then he ran off before she could say anything more.

I was so touched by this man. Who carries around $50 dollar bills? I didn't get to ask him- but I am certain he was holding it and waiting for the opportunity to share with someone else. I love the way he didn't say she was "in need" or "less fortunate".

Fast forward many years now. I have had many opportunities to hold my extra money and wait for someone in need. My husband is a frugal but very generous man. We still don't have a Wii... but if someone needed rent money, their car broke down or some other need- he would help in a heart beat.

OK- this sounds like a "we are sooooo awesome post" so I will get to the reason I wanted to talk about this. Lately, in the last several years, I have become less excited about helping others. It is really hard when you buy someone a car and they have a laptop. When you buy someone a ticket to go to an activity and they have already done it several times. It seems like so many cry poor, when they have more than us. We live way beneath our means and often go without because we know there may be a day when we need it. We have a good portion of our girls' college tuition's saved, because we don't want to have to get loans or grants.

I have realized that very few people in this country "need" anything. I'm not sure parents are teaching their children the difference between "needs" and "wants". I have become a bitter old lady who is weary of charity (other than a ride somewhere, watching kids or a hot meal). I know I shouldn't judge if anyone is in need.

Well, I think I have finally found my answer!! I have found many little ones who are in great need. Many of my on-line friends are adopting children with down syndrome internationally. Did you know that in many countries once a child with special needs turns four they are unadoptable and are sent to mental institutions? Some countries do nothing to help these children- including providing them with life saving surgeries. Although the baby houses are staffed with loving caretakers, many older children die alone, in cribs, with no one to love them or care for them.

If you are looking for a "good cause" or someone to help- PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE visit http://www.reecesrainbow.com/ an International Down Syndrome Orphan Ministry. You can be a prayer warrior (for free) where you are matched up with a child you can pray for daily. You can give a one time donation. You can give regularly. You can sign up for iGive.com where a portion of the proceeds bought on the internet (from 700 different well known companies) goes to Reese's Rainbow. Also, in a couple of weeks they will start selling ornaments called "Christmas Angel Tree Project").

My heart and thoughts go out to these children. I wish I could provide each of them a home and proper medical care. But for now, I can pray for my little Anastasia (3/31/05) from the AT RISK PAGE. Go take a look- she reminds me sooo much of Sadie. Anastasia has stolen my heart! You can pray for her too.

Grab This Button

Wordless Wednesday - Day 15

2008-10-15T09:10:00.000-07:00

Hide & Seek (So I guess we should rename this post- Three Word Wednesday!!)

America's Next Toddler Model - Day 14

2008-10-14T14:51:00.001-07:00

Yet another photo session between Madison & Sadie I found while uploading pictures!! These girls are pros.

A Diagnosis is Not Always a Prognosis - Late for Day 12

2008-10-13T21:39:00.000-07:00

I DON'T KNOW HOW TO FLIP THESE TWO POSTS... SO MAKE SURE YOU SEE MY MONDAY MOMENT... IT IS A SPECIAL ONE TO ME.

I didn't get to post anything yesterday and found this beautiful story and video on Hidden Treasures blog. Thanks Di for sharing this wonderful and inspiring story with us!

Monday Memories- Sadie's first smile - Day13

2008-10-13T19:10:00.000-07:00

I was reading Robyn's blog at http://familylovenotes.blogspot.com/ and she commented on how some people have Wordless Wednesday, Sunday notes, etc. She had an idea to have Monday Memories... I love it- and since it is hard to have something note worthy happen in your family everyday... I'm gonna try it!

So, here's one of my favorite Sadie memories. Sadie was very floppy at birth. She had no tone and was like jello. It was difficult to nurse her and I had to carry her like a football because if I held her on my shoulder she would slump down and fall.

When she was 10 weeks old I was in the nursing room with 5 other mothers who gave birth within 6 weeks of Sadie. She was the oldest, smallest and most fragile. I remember trying to get her in a good position to nurse, looking around, and noticing all the strong healthy babies getting a snack. They were cooing, smiling, pulling up their heads- and there was Sadie- floppy, limp and little eye contact. This was probably one of the hardest moments and the moment I realized Sadie would never be the same as other "typical" children. How could she? She was already so many steps behind all these newborns.

It was necessary to me to wake Sadie every few hours for feedings. She had short endurance therefore she ate less more often. All day I thought if only she would smile at me, then I would know she's in there. During her 2 am feeding I remember very clearly I looked down pulled her close to my face and whispered, "I love you Sadie". At that very moment, when I thought I couldn't take it one more day, she smiled. It was the sweetest biggest smile ever. I knew without a doubt that Heavenly Father loved me and loved this sweet little girl he sent to our family.

Sadie hasn't stopped smiling since. She has the sweetest, most beautiful little spirit. It's funny, but it is really hard to see that she is any different than any other child behind that smile.

21 things I love about Sadie - Day 11

2008-10-11T17:29:00.000-07:00

Some of my visitors might not be familiar with why I am blogging 31 for 21. As you know Sadie has Down syndrome. It is also called Trisomy 21 or T21 because Down syndrome is caused by an extra chromosome on the 21st gene. Anyway, 31 for 21 is a challenge for people who love someone with ds to blog all 31 days of October to bring Down Syndrome awareness.

So in honor of this I am going to share 21 things I love about Sadie...

1. I love when she says, "I hold you mom"
2. I love her little legs and arms and that I have to roll up all her pants and sleeves to fit her.
3. I love her beautiful blue eyes and the brushfield spots (a common ds characteristic) that look like someone has splattered white paint in them.
4. I love that she has woken me up at four in the morning on more than one occasion to have a "baabaa" and watch "Yo Gabba Gabba, Gabba Gabba Yo, Pleeeeese mommy!"
5. I love that when she runs it looks like the only place her body bends in at the waist and she just waddles back and forth.
6. I love the freckle on her butt.
7. I love that every time a car passes she says, "daddy's home, I'm sooo excited!"
8. I love her two sharp crazy front teeth pointing in different directions.

9. I love her g-tube scar (because I know her life was spared)
10. I love that she knows every Hannah Montana and Jonas Brother Song
11. I love that she asks for her "swimmin' boobies" or floaties when she wants to going swimming
12. I love her snoring
13. I love her little ears that are set lower than typical children
14. I love the gap between her toes that spreads so far it looks like her big toe is going the opposite direction of her foot
15. I love when she see M&M's she gobbles them so fast no one else can eat any
16. I love the way she says, "fellaphant" for elephant
17. I love her low husky voice
18. I love that every time we go anywhere she thinks she is the princess of a parade and must wave at everyone passing by
19. I love that after she says "dtupid" (which she knows is a no no) she will immediately say, "I sowrry mommy"... then turn around and say it again!
20. I love her Buddha belly
21. I love when she comes up to me says, "mommy wait, wait", signs beautiful, gives me a big kiss, then pats me on the back.

I didn't think much about these... I'm sure I could have thought of better ones... and I'm sure if I did it again I might come up with a totally different list. But this is what I love about Sadie right now. If you look at this list you might think a lot of those are what I love about my typical kid.

I Repent... yesterday's post a day late - Day 10 of 31 for 21

2008-10-11T17:15:00.000-07:00

I owe you all an excuse for not posting yesterday. I was totally involved in getting Sadie's Buddy Walk website set-up and e-mails send out. It was totally emotionally for me. I can't believe how long it has taken for me to sign-up a team for Sadie.

Her Team name is SADIE'S SUPERCREW... yes, named after her favorite group on last seasons America's Next Dance Crew. She loves that show, loves that group and even flashes the sign while hopping up and down hooting and howling.

So, I sent out a lot of e-mails and I'm very scared that people will not respond or support us. Ever since we've had Sadie- I know people support us and think about us- but I have changed. I have become less involved, more self-centered and I often when someone asks me how I'm doing, I find that I answer them and I forget to ask them in return. I am totally burned out- my house is a wreck, I'm always sick and I just don't have any motivation to do anything except finish the day- loved and alive.

Regardless of how hard life is.. the only thing I would change is bigger bedrooms and closets for the girls and a Maid for me!!! I love my family. Scott is so supportive and kind. He is responsible and charitable. A great husband and father. Kiersten is smart, kind and spiritual. She is gaining confidence everyday and I am thankful for example she provides our family. Madison is talented, independent and confident. She is helpful and always does what she is asked (even if it means it comes with a little free teenage lip service. Hannah is fun-loving, kind, and smart! She is a great big sister and terrific friend. She shows us the value of loving life and enjoying the moment. Sadie is the most beautiful and sweet daughter of God. She is smart, funny, and stubborn. She brings our family together to celebrate when everyone is off in different directions. I love my family and I am grateful for the gifts they bring me.

Straight from the experts- Sight Words vs. Phonics!! Day 9

2008-10-09T18:27:00.000-07:00

I've waited for today for a month. Sue and Frank Buckley joined our parent discussion for our Learning Program. They flew into to work on some projects between DownsEd and The Down Syndrome Foundation of Orange County. Anyway, this is part two to my post "Pets, Mommy, Pets"!

The following are from my notes- Sue Buckley said that when teaching a child with ds how to read:

1. Knowing phonics helps you guess or link the spoken languague with the written language.

2. Phonics is helpful as long as the word is already in your vocabulary.

3. The steps to teaching our children to read are a) sight recognizition- whole words b) read books- first with sight words, then adding words to full sentences. c) mix-up your vocabulary- traditional sight words, daily words, fun words.

4. After these steps are followed and your child can identify whole words you can use them to compare and start phonics. ie: they know girl, grape, green by sight but speak the word "go" as "doe".. you can show them the pattern of "g's" and their sound.

Our learning program starts with picture to picture recognition, then word to word, then word to picture. We use matching boards, books, worksheets and words strips. If you are interested in seeing some of the materials you can register for free and download anything you want!! Sadie's picture is on the left bottom corner!!

http://dsfoc.org/

It all made sense when I was there- if you have any questions you can comment and I will try to expand to my best knowledge.

Wordless Wednesday - Where's Waldo or ET?? - Day #8

2008-10-08T09:57:00.000-07:00

Miscellaneous Pictures- Day #7

2008-10-07T17:16:00.000-07:00

It seems to me that with all the blogging going on maybe it's time to take a break from reading and take a minute to look at some old pictures! Maybe I can get some comments... considering my words aren't inspiring many of you!! LOL

Summer Swimming- Kiersten, Hannah, Sadie, Katie & Madison

I'll have to find the one Sadie is floating on her back- LOL!!

They were playing "flip your hair"- Sadie did pretty good. Kiersten wouldn't let me show you any of her!!

First Day of School- also the skirt she painted nail polish all over!!

I don't have many "normal" pictures of Hannah- but she always has this beautiful smile!!

I love this one because Madison is always so photogenic (this will be future blackmail material)- this is her trying to be "cool"!!

Kiersten after a 3 day pioneer trek walking and pulling a handcart for over 20 miles- she is dirty!!!!

"Life With My Special K's" is 1 year old and there is a giveaway!! - Day #6

2008-10-06T15:30:00.000-07:00

Life with my Special K's is celebrating her 1 year blogversary today. I can't think of a better site to visit for DS, family, military, parenting, etc. Her little girl Kennedy has fought AML, had major neck surgery and many other set backs. During this time a baby has been born, dad is serving our country and Renee has never stopped caring for her family. This website is full of hope, fun stories and courage!!!

http://www.myspecialks.com/

Visit her post to see what she is giving away in honor of her bogversary.

"The Only Thing That is Constant is Change" - Day #5

2008-10-05T11:08:00.001-07:00

While watching leaders in our church during General Conference one talk really spoke to me as a mother. Most of this post will be thoughts or quotes from President Thomas S. Monson. He spoke about "finding joy in the journey now" and "adapting to changes in our lives". This is something I have struggled with since Sadie was born. I often find myself to wrapped up in therapies, Dr. appt's, IEP's, and preparing for her future.

He challenged us to "find joy in the journey" because someday "each of us will run out of tomorrows". Also, he told us "don't spend so much time looking ahead and planning for the future that you forget the here and now." I can't tell you how many times I've thought when my house is clean I will be happy. When I've lost more weight I can hang out or go to this place. How many times have I missed out because I was planning for the future??

We should "work today on making memories for the future" and "fill our days with those things we cherish most." After I am done with this I am still going to do several loads of laundry, clean the girls room and fix dinner- but I am going to take a few minutes here and there to hug someone, read a book to a little one, compliment others and maybe write a friend and tell them how much I appreciate them. His last words of counsel..."Shower others with love and gratitude in word and deed". Not only will this help us live in the moment, it will help us build relationships that will strength us in the future.

I challenge each of you to make a goal today that will help you "find joy in the journey!"

Stubborn Sadie - Day #4

2008-10-04T17:19:00.000-07:00

I hate to keep harping on the stubborn side of Sadie; but, it really has started to consume our lives! Last year she lost her snack on two occasions because she decided she didn't want to line up and go in from recess. The first time I was horrified that her teacher could be soooooo mean as to make her sit there and watch all her classmates eat without her. I quickly learned Ms. Katie knows what she is doing and that Sadie would understand there are consequences to actions.

Guess what???? I think Sadie forgot about the "no snack if you don't line up" rule over the summer. We have been in school for 3 1/2 weeks and she has missed snack THREE TIMES already. That's not the worst of it. She has even gone to line up and decided to look Ms. Pam right in the eyes and run off to take another turn at the slide!!!

Also, one day a little boy named Adam didn't like the task they were doing so he decided to throw his book in the middle of the circle. Sadie quickly told him, "No Adam, no throwing!". (This is what they call- "helping classmates keep on task". I call it "being bossy"; nevertheless, it is a new behavior Sadie has acquired this year!) Ms. Pam told Sadie, "I'll help Adam- you go finish your project."

I don't think Sadie liked this to much because she went and got her book, looked Ms. Pam in the eyes, and threw her book in the circle. Can you say stubborn????

I know that this whole 31 for 21 is suppose to be for down syndrome awareness... and I think that means to help others see how wonderful living and caring for a child with ds is. So, know that all of these "behaviors" are exciting, frustrating, interesting, a pain in the butt, but most of all NORMAL 4 YEAR OLD BEHAVIOR!!! And what is more wonderful than looking at your child and seeing beyond the ds?

It's Halloween Time... - Day #3

2008-10-03T18:05:00.000-07:00

We were driving down the street right before dusk. It's a beautiful, clear and hot (80 degree) day. Sadie started yelling, "bats, bats, bats mommy". I was a little confused until I looked in the rear view mirror and noticed she was pointing at the seagulls flying around. I asked her, "are you pointing at the birds?"

"No mommy, bats in the sky. That's aweeeeesome!!"

I wonder what they are teaching her at school right now???

Halloween is coming toooo soon and I asked each kid to decide what they wanted to dress as for Halloween by Oct. 1st. No more last minute costumes (Kiersten) and no more changing at the last minute (Hannah). My only problem is I haven't been able to talk Sadie into something cute.... she wants to be "MUNO" from Yo Gabba Gabba. As many of you know- we love Yo Gabba Gabba- but, Muno looks like a giant boy part!!! I am horrified- can't she just be a ladybug or Minnie Mouse??????

"Pets, Mommy Pets!!!!" - Day #2

2008-10-02T19:23:00.000-07:00

Let me give you a little background on this story... although I am really enjoying the freedom public school brings to me as a mom- I am a homeschooler at heart. With that in mind I can not count the hours I have spent teaching my children phonics. I have more than a dozen books for each grade on the subject.

So, when I was in our learning program at the Down Syndrome Association of Orange County last month and heard that "our children just don't do well with phonics. It is best to teach whole language"- I just about freaked!!! I've heard this before, but I haven't really thought about it because Sadie was so far from reading. Well, we are getting ready for Kindergarten and pre-reading is a skill we've been working on.

I knew if I was ever going to get on board with this philosophy I needed to understand the reasoning behind it. They explained that because of the hearing and articulation problems our children most likely have it makes it difficult to really work with phonics. OK... that sounds understandable. I'll try whole words; but, I'm not giving up on phonics!

This month we worked on word to word matching. We have two boards with six words each- Foods and Pets. We also have a book that has a title page just with the word and the following pages have a picture and corresponding word. At the end of each book there is a vocabulary or word building page with all the words listed without pictures.

Let me just testify to you right now- IT WORKS! Sadie was able to match word to word successfully (except a few times when she matched dog and frog- most likely looking only at the ending of the word). She was able to read the books and even sight read a few of the words without pictures in the back of the book. But, here is the real test...

The other day while in a parking lot I heard Sadie repeatedly telling me, "Pets, mommy pets. Pets, pets mommy!" After a few times of hearing her chant this I looked back and noticed her pointing. She was pointing at the Pet City sign. What???? Yes, I have taken her in there and there were pictures of animals on the windows. But, she wasn't pointing at the windows and I never say, "let's go to the pet store". I do say let's go see the animals, dogs, cats, get bunny food, etc. Never Pet Store. I think "Pet" is just a weird and formal word.

Sadie saw the word and recognized it as the word she read in her book. She read a whole word. Could I have taught her phonics to read it... yes, it would take awhile but yes. Do I think phonics are important? YES, YES, YES! Did this experience make both Sadie and I excited to work on reading... YES, YES, YES!!

Just a cute P.S. to this story. Sadie knew how excited and proud we were of her when she read "Pets"-- so the other day she took my hand and lead me to her teacher and said, "Pets, mommy, pets". She wanted me to tell Ms. Katie and Ms. Pam! Good job Sadie!

Day #1- 31 for 21

2008-10-01T20:18:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day of blogging of 31 days for awareness for Trisomy 21 (or ds). I don't have much time and I can't make this life consuming- so I thought I would start with a quick story.

Today, while sitting at the computer Sadie decided she would paint her nails bright green. She was able to unscrew the bottle and paint her nails, hands, legs, and skirt. Before daddy could see what she was up to, she went into the bathroom and unscrewed the nailpolish remover- splashed a little on her hair and clothes, then turned on the water to wash down a little.

After cleaning herself up a bit, she walked to daddy and said, "I'm wet!". Needless to say, we aren't sure if we are more scared that she was able to get into all these toxic things... or proud that she was able to problem solve all by herself.

Don't worry... all toxic chemicals are now in the top cupboard away from little Sadie!!!!!!

The Right "R" Word

2008-09-22T20:29:00.000-07:00

Here's a PSA (Public Service Announcement) starring one of our downsyn friends. Payton is the first little girl shown.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qk9ZhuJt2JY

Down's tests are great risk for all babies Screening for syndrome puts healthy foetuses in danger of being miscarried, new research shows

2008-09-14T17:22:00.000-07:00

This article was written by: Victoria Macdonald
and was published in The Observer, Sunday September 14 2008

Down's tests are great risk for all babiesScreening for syndrome puts healthy foetuses in danger of being miscarried, new research shows
Victoria Macdonald The Observer, Sunday September 14 2008 Article historyRisks in screening unborn babies for Down's syndrome are far higher than previously claimed, new research will say this week. For every three unborn Down's syndrome babies prevented from being born, two healthy babies will be miscarried because of the methods used to detect the condition.

The research claims that, in detecting and preventing the birth of 660 Down's babies, 400 healthy foetuses are lost.

The research casts doubt on the advice and risk assessment given to women when they are deciding whether to undergo the screening and subsequent testing to assess the health of an unborn baby. The National Health Service currently cites a miscarriage rate of between 1 and 2 per cent following the invasive amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling (CVS) tests, which are offered to expectant mothers who are considered to be 'at risk'.

The authors of the paper - which is being published in the Down's Syndrome Research and Practice journal - say that, while the number of pregnancies diagnosed with Down's syndrome that are terminated, miscarried or born are recorded, no analysis has ever been attempted to determine the number of non-Down's babies lost.

The authors are from the charity Down's Syndrome Education International and might therefore be accused of pursuing their own agenda, but the research has been shown to a number of screening experts who have assessed the findings. In a film to be screened on Channel 4 News at 7pm on Tuesday, Professor Kypros Nicolaides, head of the Harris Birthright Centre at King's College Hospital in south London, will say it is 'completely unacceptable' to lose this number of normal babies.

'Our aim must be to improve the detection of foetuses with Down's in those women that want to have a test and dramatically reduce the number of normal babies that are lost as part of this process of screening,' said Nicolaides, who has been a pioneer in the use of ultrasound for improving screening.

The authors of the study - Frank Buckley and Professor Sue Buckley, a director of the charity who also works at Portsmouth University's psychology department - blame false screening results in the initial blood testing and then the use of subsequent testing, which involves inserting a fine needle through the woman's abdomen and either withdrawing amniotic fluid or taking a tissue sample.

To detect as many Down's babies as possible, the initial screening threshold is set wide, which means that more than 95 per cent of women defined as 'high risk' will not be carrying a baby with the disorder, yet most go on to have the amniocentesis or CVS tests.

The Buckleys and Nicolaides are particularly concerned about how well qualified the staff are who carry out the invasive testing and about their ability to use ultrasound. Studies in the past have shown that loss rates following amniocentesis are six to eight times higher among inexperienced practitioners.

Because no records of non-Down's baby losses have ever been kept, the Buckleys say that their ratio of three to two can only ever be an estimate. But their methodology appears to have been broadly accepted.

'We are looking at the wider question of public health policy,' said the Buckleys. 'The screening for Down's syndrome has consequences for every pregnant woman. You cannot look at it as just a search-and-destroy mission focused on babies with Down's alone.'

About 750 Down's babies are born every year in England and Wales and the Department of Health said the primary aim of screening for the syndrome was to help women make informed decisions about their pregnancies. A spokesman said the programme was based on the latest evidence and supported the most effective test in terms of both the detection rate and the aim of lowering the screen-positive rate 'in order to minimise the number of diagnostic tests'.

The National Institute for Health and Clinical Evidence has recommended a new 'combined screen', which is meant to be more effective in assessing who is at risk, but this has yet to be rolled out nationally.

The Down's charity has now written to the government asking for a thorough reappraisal of the 'purpose, performance and safety' of the screening programme.

· Victoria Macdonald is social affairs correspondent for Channel 4 News.
THE SAD THING ABOUT THIS... I KNOW THERE IS SUCH A LONG WAITING LIST IN THE US FOR ADOPTING KIDS WITH DS. I WOULD LOVE TO SOMEDAY ADOPT ONE- DON'T KNOW IF IT WILL EVER BE RIGHT FOR OUR FAMILY- BUT, IF THEY ONLY THOUGHT ABOUT CARRYING THE BABY TO TERM AND ADOPTING THEM OUT. AND ALL THOSE BABIES LOST TO INCONCLUSIVE TESTS!!!! WHAT A SHAME!!!

I'm a Mom of a High Schooler!!!!!

2008-08-24T13:37:00.000-07:00

I'm trying not to freak as we get Kiersten ready for her first day of High School tomorrow! I have a four year old... how can I possibly have a high schooler also??? This summer has been great for her. We started out spending time with our friends in Utah only to rush back and get ready for Trek. They spent 3 days, in period clothes, pulling a handcart and living the life of a pioneer. Within a week after coming home from trek Kiersten packed up to go to EFY (Especially For Youth) a church sponsored week long conference for boys and girls 14-18 years old. EFY was life changing for Kiersten. Not only were they fed spiritually, they met a lot of new friends and they were taught how to safety and correctly interact with boys. The boys escorted them to every activity, joined in on Morning devotionals, and danced with them at two dances. Immediately after returning from EFY I got Kiersten unlimited texting (this for a girl who has had her phone for two years and has only used it a dozen times - to call me). She hasn't stopped texting since. I know she is keeping in touch with a few boys from EFY. She has gone to the last three youth dances and spent the last week at girl's camp. I am amazed at how much she has grown this summer. So, she has a new dew, unlimited texting and her dancin' shoes on... I think my baby is ready for High School. But don't let her new found social skills fool you- she is still totally academic. She will be taking all honors class, Spanish, Seminary and Alg. 2 Trig. Yikes!!! Wish me luck :)

The "R" Word

2008-08-16T16:23:00.000-07:00

I found this post on Downsyn.com and asked if I could post it here. Love, love, love it!

LANGUAGE CAN HURT

We are moms of young children with developmental disabilities. We are your neighbors, your friends. We see you at baseball games, shopping, church, and the movies. When we think of our children, we use words like “beautiful” and “adorable.”

But often we hear words that hurt, words like the R-word, “retarded.”

People often use the R-word casually to insult and denigrate another person. Because the word is used in those ways, it’s easy to understand why as mothers we are hurt and concerned when we hear it. Over the years we have wondered about (and dreaded) the day when our children would come home after hearing and understanding the insinuation behind someone's use of the R-word.

The casual use of the word is so common that a week doesn't go by that we don't hear it. Every day we are reminded that our children are becoming more aware of their differences and so too are their peers. That day we've dreaded is fast approaching.

When famous movie stars, celebrities our children already know and love, take a hurtful word and tie a funny punch line around it, we need to worry about the fallout. That’s why we’re asking you today to think about the R-word, and the impact it has on the people around you, including our children. And we’d like you to consider a new R-word, RESPECT.

On behalf of our children, we thank you for reading, and for your thoughtfulness

Written By: Nancy Reader copied off of Downsyn.com

Something I've been thinking about for awhile

2008-08-12T19:18:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking a lot of an experience I had just after the birth of Sadie. Three of my friends came to visit me in the hospital. They all sat at the end of my bed admiring Sadie and looking forward to the births of two of their children in the following few weeks. I felt the time was right and I just blurted out, "She has Down Syndrome". What happened next has been one of the best lessons I have ever experienced.

My friend Kay, who had 3 children and was expecting her 4 in the next two weeks and who grew up with two deaf parents, exclaimed, "Oh, she's so cute... doesn't she have the cutiest toes? It looks like she is giving us a peace sign, " (because of the big gap). She just kept talking and talking about everything... I wondered if she had even heard the news I had just given her.

My friend Alison, who was expecting her first child the next month, sat there with a with a deer caught in headlights look. I don't think she said another word and I was sure she was lost in thoughts of, "if Kari didn't know she was going to have a kid with ds... what about ME?"

And then there was my sweet little friend Ayumi she sat there with tears in her eyes, got up and hugged me and started asking questions about what was next and about her health.

Everyone had a different reaction. I believe those reactions were all born from different experiences they had in life. Each had different upringings and and different personalities. All three were there in the room with me at the same time hearing the same things; but, each of them heard it differently. Kay lived around disabled people all her life. She knew that things would be just fine. She was there to celebrate a new life. Alison was newly married, expecting her first child. They were perfect and nothing seriously life altering had ever happened to her. Ayumi, she grew up in Japan. She grew up in a society where people with disabilities are hidden, killed or shipped away.

I learned that day that I could never control how others reacted. I needed to look beyond their reaction and wonder... why do they think that way? Now today, when we are out and about, I often see how people react to Sadie. Sometimes they turn their heads. Sometimes they look at me with pity. But most of the time, they smile. They see how happy we are. They see the joy and love Sadie brings to our family.

I can't control how others feel. The only thing I can control is my own thoughts and emotions. I can however, hope that maybe as we fully accept and rejoice in our litte ones others will see their beauty and worth. And if not- it won't change how I feel one bit!!!

My Cat Was Shot!

2008-07-26T08:45:00.001-07:00

I haven't posted this yet because it has been really hard on our family. I think it is why I have gone kinda crazy manic (not that I'm bi-polar- but I feel like it)

My cat Ella was shot by a bb gun last Thursday July 17. My neighbor brought her to us and said she had found her and that Ella wasn't putting any weight on her leg. We thought maybe a dog got her because she thinks she can just play around with them.

She ended up with a bb that chipped the bone and cracked it all the way down. They had to do surgery and put in 6 pins to prevent it from breaking to pieces. Besides two surgeries, lots of medications, weekly re-check visits- the worst part is she is going to be crate bound for 6 weeks and under house arrest for 60 days. This cat loves to go in and out and visit. I hope she doesn't get depressed.

Some people have asked me if I know who did it. NO, but my neighbor has a few ideas... and she's out to get them. Unfortunately, it has caused me to question people and be leary of them. I think that is sad. These are people I live with- who share a space with our family. Anyway, I am hoping it was some goofy teenage boy (nothing against boys) that didn't realize the consequences of his actions. ie- the pain, cost and how it has affected the girls.

Just some background- Last year we found Ella in Palm Springs at our house. She lived under the shed and was starving to death. The rest of her litter and mama had been taken to the animal society. I'm not much of an animal person- mostly because they poop- but I was talked into "saving this cat". It was long before I found out she was the most loving, sweet, kind kitty ever! She is determined to have me meet all of my neighbors... because there is hardly a week without someone calling me and telling me she is 1) sleeping with them on the couch 2) out playing with their dogs 3) following their kids home from school or 4) sleeping in their bed! I've even had one call that said you better come get your cat or my neighbor will steal her.

Some of the neighbors even suggested we have a BBQ block party to raise money to go toward the $5,000 it is going to cost us to cover all this (I would never do that- but it is kinda funny they would suggest it) After we brought her home my next door neighbor came over and cried over her crate. I told her that if I ever break my leg she better cry over my bed or I'm gonna get some kind of complex.

Anyway, please pray Ella will heal quickly and not get depressed!!

Our Friend Kennedy

2008-07-25T17:56:00.000-07:00

This is our friend Kennedy who is one serious trooper. Besides having to live without Daddy (he's serving our country) she has ds, leukemia and AAI. Look here for more about this sweet little girl and her amazing mommy!!

Please excuse the video- I don't know how to get a smaller version- unless someone can tell me!!

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

There's a Party in My Tummy!! Yeah!

2008-07-25T10:09:00.000-07:00

We love, love, love Yo Gabba Gabba! Sadie knows every word to this song- would make her speech therapist proud. Infact, Sadie knows almost every song on Yo Gabba Gabba. She and Daddy sit on the computer- You Tube for hours and sing. Plus, Parker was nice to give her the whole season 1 DVD set. Everyday when she gets home, "Yo Gabba Gabba, Gabba Gabba Yo Please!!"

So, for all you guys who keep asking.. "What's the deal with Yo Gabba Gabba"- you tell me... isn't this the coolest???

Church Bulletin Bloopers

2008-07-24T16:26:00.000-07:00

Some of these are hiliarious!!!

Bertha Belch, a missionary from Africa, will be speaking tonight at Calvary Methodist. Come hear Bertha Belch all the way from Africa.

The sermon this morning: "Jesus Walks on the Water." The sermon tonight: "Searching for Jesus."

Our youth basketball team is back in action Wednesday at 8 PM in the recreation hall. Come out and watch us kill Christ the King.

Ladies, don't forget the rummage sale. It's a chance to get rid of those things not worth keeping around the house. Don't forget your husbands.

The peacemaking meeting scheduled for today has been canceled due to a conflict.

Remember in prayer the many who are sick of our community. Smile at someone who is hard to love. Say "Hell" to someone who doesn't care much about you.

Don't let worry kill you off - let the Church help.

Miss Charlene Mason sang "I will not pass this way again," giving obvious pleasure to the congregation.

For those of you who have children and don't know it, we have a nursery downstairs.

Next Thursday there will be tryouts for the choir. They need all the help they can get.

Barbara remains in the hospital and needs blood donors for more transfusions She is also having trouble sleeping and requests tapes of Pastor Jack's sermons.

A bean supper will be held on Tuesday evening in the church hall. Music will follow.

At the evening service tonight, the sermon topic will be "What Is Hell?" Come early and listen to our choir practice.

Eight new choir robes are currently needed due to the addition of several new members and to the deterioration of some older ones.

The ladies of the Church have cast off clothing of every kind. They may be seen in the basement on Friday afternoon.

Ladies Bible Study will be held Thursday morning at 10 AM. All ladies are invited to lunch in the Fellowship Hall after the B. S. is done.

The pastor would appreciate it if the ladies of the congregation would lend him their electric girdles for the pancake breakfast next Sunday.

Low Self Esteem Support Group will meet Thursday at 7 PM. Please use the back door.

The eighth-graders will be presenting Shakespeare's Hamlet in the Church basement Friday at 7 PM. The congregation is invited to attend this tragedy.

Weight Watchers will meet at 7 PM at the First Presbyterian Church. Please use large double door at the side entrance.

Wordless Wednesday- on Thursday????

2008-07-24T07:45:00.000-07:00

Since it's not really Wednesday-- I can use words!! ;) I posted these pictures yesterday and had someone tell me they worked with criminals that might want to use these pictures if I didn't sticker them. That scared the crud out of me. I'm still new to this so I immediately took the pictures down until I could fix them. I feel better about them... but I have to admit- the stickers kinda take away from the cuteness. Anyway- enjoy!!!

Our First Wordless Wednesday- Take 2

2008-07-23T15:45:00.000-07:00

Hermie, Jack Lord, Ronnie or Just My Bubba?

2008-07-22T20:03:00.000-07:00

So the other day a friend from church said he thought Scott looked like Hermie on "Rudolph The Red-nosed Reindeer".

Hey replied with a quick, "Thank you, but I've always thought I resembled more of a Jack Lord!"

I'm not sure... I think he's just my bubba- although I have thought he looked a little like Ronnie Regan at times!

What do you think???

Sadie's SuperCrew!!

2008-07-21T11:52:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I have had the hardest time trying to narrow down a name for our team. Last year we just went by "Teague Tribe" (which is our last name).

Some of our ideas have been

Sadie's Stars
Sadie Bug Picnic (my dh's fav)
My Moshish (another dh fav)
Sadie's soldiers

Anyway, none of them have worked. So, as many of you know DANCE is a huge part of our family life. Everyday has something to do with dance Sadie has grown up at the dance studio and really has a kinship with music. We watch every dance reality show and lately- been lovin' "American's Next Dance Crew". Love, love, love it!!!!!!

She was watching it a couple of weeks ago and she gets groovin and yelling and cheering for the different teams. Her absolute favorite is the "SuperCr3w". Whenever they are done she jumps up and starts to flash her "SuperCr3w" gang/ group sign. It is the funniest thing.

Soooooo... next years name (with their permission of course) is going to be......

Sadie's SuperCrew

I'll link the Buddy Walk page as soon as I figure out one thing!

Our Friend Julie-la-la and Our Favorite Show Yo Gabba Gabba

2008-07-19T14:33:00.000-07:00

I shared this with some of you last month- but I never posted it on my blog. This is our friend Julia on Yo Gabba Gabba (our favorite show)- she is a blast!!! Oh, and for those of you watching it with little kids on your lap- beware and turn down the sound in the last few seconds!!

P.S. Kim, I feel like I blog about Julia as much as my own kids- can I make her a honorary Teague????

The Many Faces of Sadie

2008-07-18T18:59:00.001-07:00

Have you ever gone to download some pictures and realized the kids were playing with the camera? This is a regular occurrence in our home. I've found some pretty funky things (ie- bathroom signs, a toe, nostrils, etc)... but the other day they must have had a little photo session with Sadie. I almost peed my pants seeing all the things they made her do- so I thought I would share some. There must have been a hundred pictures- so I just chose some of them in the same clothing- except the last two.

Everyday after getting dressed, Sadie runs into the office and poses for Scott.

I love the way her feet are up in the back!

Her American Idol pose

Behind the back

Someone commented to me about Sadie always having a big smile in her pictures... I think I just love that big grin so I always show those!

Who me??

This has to be a copy of Madison's "model pose"

Yeah!

I'm tired... can we stop??

Hello fans!

Kisses!

Help Raina- in Xander's name!!

2008-07-18T17:22:00.000-07:00

Found this on one of the Downsyn.com members website. Sounds cool and a great way to help a little one!!

Anyone want a Blackberry Curve???????

I am giving away my Blackberry Curve. It is in excellent condition....I've had it less than 6 months and always carried it in it's case. It works with a T-Mobile SIM card(and I'm sure it can be unlocked for other carriers). When we changed cell phone providers, I decided to downgrade to something cheaper. I sold my husband's identical phone on ebay in less than 5 minutes for $170. I decided to give mine away instead. So, here's the deal:

On July 27th, I will pick my Xander up out of his bed, kiss his chubby little cheek.....and thank the Lord for putting him in my arms one year ago. To honor that moment one year ago, I am auctioning off my Blackberry Curve with every penny of the money raised to go into the grant fund for Raina, who is waiting in Bulgaria. Raina, like Xander, has Down Syndrome and clubbed feet. She is destined to live her life confined to a crib unless a family takes a leap of faith and adopts her into their family.

So, here's how this is going to work. There is a Chip In widget over on the side of my blog. A $5 donation made through that account will enter your name in the drawing. You can enter as many times as you want....each entry requires $5. The auction will end on July 27th and Xander will draw the winner himself. Every penny of the money in the chip-in account will go to Raina.....and someone will get my Blackberry Curve. You can keep it, resell it yourself....whatever you want to do with it. My intention is to get some money in this little girl's grant fund.

If you are reading this and you blog, PLEASE mention this on your blog. You can even put the widget on your blog too. You can get the code here. Some of you that read this get hundreds of readers a day on your blog. My prayer is to raise at least $500 for Raina's grant. That's going to take 100 entries. My husband thinks I'm crazy and I'm going to give my Blackberry away for like $20. Help me prove him wrong and raise some money for this little angel who's waiting on a mommy and daddy to call her own!!!!

Here's the website!!!
http://chroniclesofhousehold6.blogspot.com/2008/07/anyone-want-blackberry-curve.html

Sadie's Summer Speech

2008-07-17T16:30:00.000-07:00

I saw Sadie's speech teacher today and had to tell her the great accomplishments she has made in speech this summer... this is where I chuckle- cuz, the other day when she wanted to swim and I told her no- she gave me a dirty look and said, "AWE MAN, YOU RUDE!"

Now she's been saying 5-8 word sentences for a long time now- but her tone and attitude have grown immensely this summer!!!

My Blog's New Look!

2008-07-17T12:01:00.000-07:00

Lovin' my new blog look! I've been so jealous of all the cute blogs out there and haven't been able to figure out anything more than the generic layouts from blogspot. So, last night while browsing some other blogs- I saw a blog background from http://www.thecutestblogontheblock.com/. They are so cute!!! Hence the name. Well, I'm back to blogging- good therapy and alternative to TV (since I don't get my say anymore)!

Prayer Warrior

2008-07-17T11:47:00.000-07:00

Last night I had another night of insomnia and found a blog that talked about a little boy with ds she had signed up to pray for through Reese's Rainbow. So, I quickly e-mailed the coordinator and asked for our own little one to pray for. She e-mailed back today.

Hi Kari,

We would love to have your family participate in our Prayer Warrior ministry.

You have been matched with Olga in Ukraine! Olga is a beautiful little girl with dark hair and eyes who is reportedly quite high functioning. She desperately needs prayer as she is already 4 years old and will be transferred to the institution soon. We are unable to send pictures through e-mail as per the laws of Ukraine, but a welcome packet will be sent to your home address shortly with a picture of Olga, Reece's Rainbow magnet, and a bookmark.

Thank you so much for lifting Olga's daily needs up, for lifting up her future family, and for lifting up the ministry of Reece's Rainbow.

God Bless,
Kelly

Please help us pray for Olga. If you would like to pray for your own little one (free of charge) you can contact: Kelly Shamsey at kshamsey@verizon.net

Sweet or/and Sour???

2008-07-16T09:59:00.000-07:00

When Sadie was first born everyone would comment on how kids with ds are always so "sweet and kind". Well, I've since learned that there is another face to ds and Sadie has fully embraced the "stubborn" part of her extra chromosome!

However, she knows how to work it. While on a trip to Temple Square she decided she wanted no part of what our group was doing. When I wouldn't cave to her demands she sat down and pouted. I'm not kidding when I say she had a full on "ds pout". I thought I could capture her "naughtiness" so I whipped out the camera and took a shot....

this is what I caught- needless to say, she knows how to turn on the charm when needed!!