Jordan made 50 out of 50 points in his behavior. Tressa had a two sticker STAR day. Lucas came home with Glitter all over him from an awesome art day. Those three had school photos as class pictures (group) and tomorrow the Easter Bunny is meeting them for breakfast at school!!! Lots of activity keeping them busy.
Steven came in did his homework, played in the pool and stoked because he is spending the day tomorrow out on Sanibel Island with his class... Lucky Steven. I was to go on this trip to help but BUT BUT...Emma is doing so well..... fingers crossed she gets released tomorrow. I will drive over early to feed her as much as possible. I talked to them on the phone today and they all said she has an extra sparkle in her since I left her. She is sucking her formula and making gains very quickly...Amazing what humans do when loved and feel loved..
Kaitlyn is her happy self and Keirsten is her teen self..UGH teens...lol.. you know the teacher questioned where her project was and Keirsten said she aware of a project due...all the other students got the message...but she didn't say it
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Monday, March 30, 2009
Emma Rose Pringle DOB 3-24-09
Hello friends and Family,
Last week an angel was born into our world. Her journey thus far has been a series of losses… Born Tuesday; March 24th , 2009 she faced human contact with many obstacles preventing her from feeling human love as experienced by the majority. You see her Mother carrying her 32 weeks couldn’t kick a drug habit of cocaine which entered the body of her unborn child. Little did Mother know or understand her unborn baby has an extra chromosome developing throughout her body and the drugs were complicating things from developing naturally along with Trisomy 21. As her life plans began unfolding- the adopting parents; willing to take her from the arms of Mother, were thinking twice about the commitment due to the complications. The adoptive parents feel her needs are more than they are capable of dealing with. Lots of medical tests showing some serous medical issues are facing a baby with no family; Tuesday- Wed- Thurs… The Pringle’s were contacted on Thursday - Friday she was unconditionally loved as Emma Rose Pringle.
It is my pleasure to share with you my daughter…perfect in every way!
Emma Rose Pringle
Friday, March 27, 2009
The photo of my brother (motorcycle racing)
Today has been a wonderful day..no school with lots of one on one time with the kids. We are excited for summer coming, excited to be in contact with extended family making summer plans. The kids are very excited they will be seeing the Easter Bunny next weekend at the picnic...
We were all going about our day, pool time, lunch and snack, games and coloring when all of a sudden Lucas found it very funny to dump a full box of crayons on the floor.. You see he is a HUGE fan of DUMPING... He doesn't feel the same for the picking up potion of the act. WHen he was in his room to go to bed he would dump out legos...I would make him pick them ALL up, he would cry and act as if he really needed to go to sleep at that point...He would cry like nothing I have heard before because it is forced but strong and he seems to not have the "different" tones of crying so he pours iit on strong..IT WORKS FOR HIM SOMEWHERE.... But I make him cry AND PICK UP until the activity is complete. Today he started the strong full on cry as soon as he realized he was going to have to pick up the crayons. Mandie was next to him to help guide him and the look he gave her like...YOU DON'T SE ME CRYING??? and poured it on even more....it actually makes me laugh inside because some where this works for him and he is confused why it isn't working now...lol
Today has been a wonderful day..no school with lots of one on one time with the kids. We are excited for summer coming, excited to be in contact with extended family making summer plans. The kids are very excited they will be seeing the Easter Bunny next weekend at the picnic...
We were all going about our day, pool time, lunch and snack, games and coloring when all of a sudden Lucas found it very funny to dump a full box of crayons on the floor.. You see he is a HUGE fan of DUMPING... He doesn't feel the same for the picking up potion of the act. WHen he was in his room to go to bed he would dump out legos...I would make him pick them ALL up, he would cry and act as if he really needed to go to sleep at that point...He would cry like nothing I have heard before because it is forced but strong and he seems to not have the "different" tones of crying so he pours iit on strong..IT WORKS FOR HIM SOMEWHERE.... But I make him cry AND PICK UP until the activity is complete. Today he started the strong full on cry as soon as he realized he was going to have to pick up the crayons. Mandie was next to him to help guide him and the look he gave her like...YOU DON'T SE ME CRYING??? and poured it on even more....it actually makes me laugh inside because some where this works for him and he is confused why it isn't working now...lol
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Good morning all. My health is fine. I am picking up the pieces from being under the weather with all aspect of life... My grandson was feeling his grandma had abandoned him by not having him over for play dates for over ten days... He did however accurately manage to complete a three full sentence conversation on the phone articulating his wants and needs clear enough that I just had to hop in the van to go pick him and and buy a new book. Yes, he is talking (when he wants to) very well. He is saying a few undesired words I hope pass quickly...... making sure my daughter gets the message her friends need to curb language with a new little one absorbing EVERYTHING around him. We bought the books and then picked up Keirsten for a dentist appointment which took a little longer than planned.. He did well considering. Once we finished my daughter wanted to spend some of her baby sitting money she had $80.00.... There is a store called Plato's CLOSET which has slightly used designer clothing (LABELS) and she loves this store. As she entered she went right to her favorite name brands and began loading her arm with items. Ayden and I walked around the store, each time bumping into Keirsten she had several more items on her arm. I suggested she might start trying on things as Ayden's level of staying power is decreasing and we need to move on....She informs me she is buying everything and doesn't need to try them on. I suggest she choose a belt so that she doesn't have to take her siblings and create world war three each time... She couldn't find any she like HELLO!!!!! There was one EXACTLY like the one she barrows and her size!!! I saved that memory--no none I really like..... OK. You do realize we are spending her money now so things look a little different. I asked her one more time.. Do you believe you shouldn't try those on and figure what you have and what you should buy....NO MOM! I am getting them all, let me find a jacket and I will be done.... In my oh say....30 years of shopping experience I couldn't figure buying what she has for $80.00 even at a garage sale....but I suggest she gets in line.....oh what???She grabs a pair of large square sunglasses as she advances in line.... When the cashier is about half way threw taking all those buttons for security off ringing up the items I simply ask Keirsten if she has enough for everything...I get the oh mom you are such a weirdo look...so I get eye contact with the cashier and simply ask her to tell Keirsten at this now 1/2 way point what her subtotal is... $79.00 I AM GOOD! Keirsten's face goes pale... I look at her and tell her I am not spending on clothing today, she needs to budget her choices. The woman was very nice and took the large piles--rung up and not and placed them on the counter... no one else was in line..and she asked Keirsten to decide what she liked most... it was interesting to see her "downsize" She actually put back to the $60.00 mark. Once getting in the van she shared with me she couldn't believe how fast it added up and then asked if we could swing through MacDonald's... The kicker to the whole budget lesson came about 9 pm last night when her friends called to plan their weekend and asked her to go to the movies...MOM CAN I GET $20.00 from you to go to the movies.......... I simply said BUDGET KEIRSTEN. (She has to babysit Friday so she will earn it but not wanting her to think it all comes so easy) Life's lessons.
Today Lucas gets fitted his DFO's which is a decision I made with Ortho.. They say it is 50/50 any use although it is my desire for him to "feel" how his feet and ankles are suppose to work. He is walking much better although he often looks at his feet and wants to lay his foot to the side and walk...like a club. SO I believe only for training. The specialist made it very clear it will not strengthen his foot at all just keep things moving in the way the foot and ankle are intended. That is good for him for now.
Tressa went to school on the bus solo, she loves being the big girl able to inform everyone of Lucas and Jordan's absence. Her days at school are up and down. She just can not get a handle on learning math and enjoying it. Each of her behaviors stem from math or something similar...non preferred task is the educational word. If only Zack and Cody could teach school... she seems to know everything they do.
Jordan has caught on to how one stays home from school and musters a deep dry foul sounding cough in the morning and sure to be in my face and asks to see the doctor... please! I just wish I knew if there is anything behind this cough he got while in the hospital in August with a broken elbow. It has never fully gone away since August.
Keirsten is not wanting to wake up this morning and Kaitlyn is needing some "hair direction" so I need to hop off and will be back on later... remind me about the whole period girl thing with miss Kailtyn ...oh having it what 18 months and she is "done with it!" She tells me she doesn't like her period ....LOL some really cute moments... things we wish we could all express openly.
Today Lucas gets fitted his DFO's which is a decision I made with Ortho.. They say it is 50/50 any use although it is my desire for him to "feel" how his feet and ankles are suppose to work. He is walking much better although he often looks at his feet and wants to lay his foot to the side and walk...like a club. SO I believe only for training. The specialist made it very clear it will not strengthen his foot at all just keep things moving in the way the foot and ankle are intended. That is good for him for now.
Tressa went to school on the bus solo, she loves being the big girl able to inform everyone of Lucas and Jordan's absence. Her days at school are up and down. She just can not get a handle on learning math and enjoying it. Each of her behaviors stem from math or something similar...non preferred task is the educational word. If only Zack and Cody could teach school... she seems to know everything they do.
Jordan has caught on to how one stays home from school and musters a deep dry foul sounding cough in the morning and sure to be in my face and asks to see the doctor... please! I just wish I knew if there is anything behind this cough he got while in the hospital in August with a broken elbow. It has never fully gone away since August.
Keirsten is not wanting to wake up this morning and Kaitlyn is needing some "hair direction" so I need to hop off and will be back on later... remind me about the whole period girl thing with miss Kailtyn ...oh having it what 18 months and she is "done with it!" She tells me she doesn't like her period ....LOL some really cute moments... things we wish we could all express openly.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
I think I may be rising from the under weather mark...I have been up since 5:45am with no nap, no dizziness and min head ache pain...I must say it is comforting opening emails with warning notices that cold medication is causing brain bleeds and others showing min. signs bringing on death to fellow peers in their 40th..THANKS ALL..LOL I do not get sick often but when I do I usually go down and take care of myself by avoiding public, avoiding stress and avoiding human contact so that my body can regain it's strength without medication unless necessary...so that is where I have been. "Taking care of me"
The kids are wonderful, the house is in one piece, most everything is rearranged but livable. One day at a time the pieces to each game will be back in the correct box...all the therapists missing markers, game people, sunglasses and what not I will successfully locate them.. I always do. I have found that they have put their things away...the rooms "look" nice...Unfortunately the kids have not learned it is way more work to pull out wet swim suits from the toy box than just throwing them into the laundry area...although I guess my speech about wet clothes molding when left and me not told into the laundry area.... some things sink in. So I found the sunglasses behind the computer. Apparently the kids found them on the driveway which left them to believe finders keepers looses weepers...They are learning.
Wow the whole DVR is new....what the heck is wild bill--little bill who is Bill??? I have only select teens who know how to use that device.. They will be surprised to find Dora, Barney and my chosen pay back choices.
The refrigerator seems like it hasn't been touched...Have they been eating??? I hear they had "appetisers" last night..Keirsten was not thrilled with the dish but the others thought they were very good. In review of the phone and texts I see my teens have had many late nights enjoying/taking advantage of some freedom...
All in all things are good. I am planning a summer vacation to Illinois which will include a couple days in St Louis going up in the arch, Grants Farm and the Zoo. Tradition from when I lived their with my first generation. We will leave off Six flags as we have that here and the trip is about more than just amusement parks.
I found Matthiesen and Starved Rock state parks in the area we will be staying. The Glen Oak Zoo and we have a load of family to see.
I believe I am back up on the horse and will load with updates and photos of the kids later...
The kids are wonderful, the house is in one piece, most everything is rearranged but livable. One day at a time the pieces to each game will be back in the correct box...all the therapists missing markers, game people, sunglasses and what not I will successfully locate them.. I always do. I have found that they have put their things away...the rooms "look" nice...Unfortunately the kids have not learned it is way more work to pull out wet swim suits from the toy box than just throwing them into the laundry area...although I guess my speech about wet clothes molding when left and me not told into the laundry area.... some things sink in. So I found the sunglasses behind the computer. Apparently the kids found them on the driveway which left them to believe finders keepers looses weepers...They are learning.
Wow the whole DVR is new....what the heck is wild bill--little bill who is Bill??? I have only select teens who know how to use that device.. They will be surprised to find Dora, Barney and my chosen pay back choices.
The refrigerator seems like it hasn't been touched...Have they been eating??? I hear they had "appetisers" last night..Keirsten was not thrilled with the dish but the others thought they were very good. In review of the phone and texts I see my teens have had many late nights enjoying/taking advantage of some freedom...
All in all things are good. I am planning a summer vacation to Illinois which will include a couple days in St Louis going up in the arch, Grants Farm and the Zoo. Tradition from when I lived their with my first generation. We will leave off Six flags as we have that here and the trip is about more than just amusement parks.
I found Matthiesen and Starved Rock state parks in the area we will be staying. The Glen Oak Zoo and we have a load of family to see.
I believe I am back up on the horse and will load with updates and photos of the kids later...
Saturday, March 21, 2009
World Down syndrome day...in action
Today Jordan attended a BIRTHDAY PARTY for the first graders...He is in a typical first grade classroom where children know him, include him and love him as their peer. Tressa also in first grade at the same school attended the party. It is because we have answers, his right to be included; breaking stereotypes of all the BUT HE CAN'T...... As you see he is more alike than different.
WEDDING GUESTS
I am working on getting a blocked room rate on Ft Myers Beach.... I will let everyone know as soon as we get something secure.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Let's catch up
It has been a week of SLEEP as I got thru the flu with all the kids and myself. Some went down much harder than others. That seems to have passed although I am not at 100% yet.
It is amazing when mom is not up and going how the kids respond. I opened my eyes in the middle of the night to Jordan laying against my bed and his head laying on the edge completely asleep standing.. Yes, sucking his thumb. When I rubbed his head to help him so he would not fall over he looked at me to secure I was OK. Assuring him I am fine, He climbed in bed, immediately fell asleep. He was completely comfortable being home with mom this week....was a bit miffed why he was going to school this morning.
As much as I would have loved to have been in a plane today to Peoria for the funeral of my cousin Brian it just wasn't working in my favor. I will plan to be up among family over the summer.
need to rest.... typing continues to make me feel a bit dizzy.
It is amazing when mom is not up and going how the kids respond. I opened my eyes in the middle of the night to Jordan laying against my bed and his head laying on the edge completely asleep standing.. Yes, sucking his thumb. When I rubbed his head to help him so he would not fall over he looked at me to secure I was OK. Assuring him I am fine, He climbed in bed, immediately fell asleep. He was completely comfortable being home with mom this week....was a bit miffed why he was going to school this morning.
As much as I would have loved to have been in a plane today to Peoria for the funeral of my cousin Brian it just wasn't working in my favor. I will plan to be up among family over the summer.
need to rest.... typing continues to make me feel a bit dizzy.
Please keep my family in your prayers
Angie is requesting prayer right now. They will be at the funeral home at 11:00 -
Please pray for me as I see Brian's body on Friday morning.
Pray for my boys as they see the body of their Daddy for the first time since Saturday.
Pray for me - I have been experiencing a lot of anxiety in anticipation of this.
Pray for us - that we remember this time. I know it will be a beautiful representation of the kind of life Brian lived.
Pray for good weather.
Pray for all of us to handle this with the same dignity and grace that Brian displayed his entire life.
Please pray for me as I see Brian's body on Friday morning.
Pray for my boys as they see the body of their Daddy for the first time since Saturday.
Pray for me - I have been experiencing a lot of anxiety in anticipation of this.
Pray for us - that we remember this time. I know it will be a beautiful representation of the kind of life Brian lived.
Pray for good weather.
Pray for all of us to handle this with the same dignity and grace that Brian displayed his entire life.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Flu shot is working..for the ones who got it.
It is a very clear message today that the flu shot is necessary for all in our household. The three who got the shot have not been effected or if at all very minimal...Those of us who did not.... Well, it has been a rough three days.
Tressa has walked through this week with out a flinch. She got the shot, she stayed home one day, "I" could not function when the alarm went off. Lucas has had min. flu; his is weak lung issues and can not get his chest clear but flu he does not have. The rest of us have been hit some more than others. Kaitlyn had the shot had one little episode the first night and her body fought it off so she was fine.
I woke up feeling better but the on line visual gives me dizzy spells so tomorrow I shall blog.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
KEEP BELIEVING: IN MEMORY
I asked my prayer worriers a couple days ago to lift my cousin and our family up for the healing of loss.
Early this morning my cousin Brian O'Neill peacefully passed away. I ask you all to continue to pray for his family; especially his Parents, Aunt Jan and Uncle Ed- Brothers, Sean and Michael for comfort; ask Jesus' love and support for his Wife, Angie, and their two boys.
Angie was blogging their journey.
KEEP BELIEVING: home
Early this morning my cousin Brian O'Neill peacefully passed away. I ask you all to continue to pray for his family; especially his Parents, Aunt Jan and Uncle Ed- Brothers, Sean and Michael for comfort; ask Jesus' love and support for his Wife, Angie, and their two boys.
Angie was blogging their journey.
KEEP BELIEVING: home
Monday, March 16, 2009
Budgeting at 15 is not so easy on the pocketbook
A good night sleep is always a welcome, refreshing feeling. Unfortunately, that is not this morning. I was unable to fall asleep last night and tend to go back into childhood where I was to lay in my bed until I was able to fall asleep... I watch the clock and last was about 2:30 in the morning..some sort of paid commercial TV came on which is enough to get me up and turn off the TV...I know they make remotes...I have a HUGE remote drawer...lol
It is so darn early...... The kids were all up and ready to go to school...We have Christmas music on, they all love singing as loud as they can; I saw mommy kissing Santa clause. Usually it starts Keirsten: "MOM MAKE THEM STOP" then the door closes and she is back to sleep....
Keirsten has a big decision this morning. It is her class trip RSVP week. They need $70.00 and the premission slip both given to me for "take care of this mom I really want to go" Keirsten had a baby sitting job this weekend for one day making $120.00 watching one little girl...Not bad. I told her she could help pay the trip cost....well then the trip wasn't so important. "I do not want to spend MY MONEY on it" She said..... SO then I said "Well. I am not jumping to spend my money on it but if it is something you want to do" She then ASSUMED I was saying I would pay for it....I gave that moment some call a pregnancy pause.... I will go half with you. MOM, I should be able to spend my money how I want... I also returned with yes I agree and it is my understanding YOU WANT to go on your class trip which has a cost. She is so spoiled...TOO SPOILED when it comes to material things. I have to work on this at 15 because not much time left before she is out in the real world wher no one will even go half... This baby sitting job is going to be somewhat regular (not at that amount) but many times half on a weekly basis so I told her to secure the trip and each additional job we can work on all her other wants..She has NO NEEDS! We will see, the day is not over.
It is so darn early...... The kids were all up and ready to go to school...We have Christmas music on, they all love singing as loud as they can; I saw mommy kissing Santa clause. Usually it starts Keirsten: "MOM MAKE THEM STOP" then the door closes and she is back to sleep....
Keirsten has a big decision this morning. It is her class trip RSVP week. They need $70.00 and the premission slip both given to me for "take care of this mom I really want to go" Keirsten had a baby sitting job this weekend for one day making $120.00 watching one little girl...Not bad. I told her she could help pay the trip cost....well then the trip wasn't so important. "I do not want to spend MY MONEY on it" She said..... SO then I said "Well. I am not jumping to spend my money on it but if it is something you want to do" She then ASSUMED I was saying I would pay for it....I gave that moment some call a pregnancy pause.... I will go half with you. MOM, I should be able to spend my money how I want... I also returned with yes I agree and it is my understanding YOU WANT to go on your class trip which has a cost. She is so spoiled...TOO SPOILED when it comes to material things. I have to work on this at 15 because not much time left before she is out in the real world wher no one will even go half... This baby sitting job is going to be somewhat regular (not at that amount) but many times half on a weekly basis so I told her to secure the trip and each additional job we can work on all her other wants..She has NO NEEDS! We will see, the day is not over.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Distant yet
Blogging is a balance between real life and what is acceptable to share with the world. It has been an incredibly emotional week, for a variety of reasons. I feel distant from the blog; for balance, as the priority is and always will be my role as Mom.
How did I get here:
A planned yet anxiety filled trip was prepared for, then canceled for one of my children. A couple days of blunders...just off balance in our schedule nothing serious. I began opening "cans" of worms from past- distant relationships both very positive and some not so positive through facebook. Exposing myself to family and friends from High School whom I haven't had contact with in 30 years for many, leaving a town where most had no idea why a sudden move occurred. A town I love, feel very connected through my heart felt memories and roots. For me, it is mental rushes of the past, mixed with some of the current, brought to the surface for dealing with. Old feelings and fresh ones...grieving loss years past I never shared, learning of end of life with a close relative. If none of this makes sense, welcome to my mind this weekend...lol.. I know time will help, it is just a lot to expose oneself to in a short amount of time. I am holding hands with all the positives coming from this and leaving the hurt aside for today... I am sure something profound is going to be on the other side of this experience.
How did I get here:
A planned yet anxiety filled trip was prepared for, then canceled for one of my children. A couple days of blunders...just off balance in our schedule nothing serious. I began opening "cans" of worms from past- distant relationships both very positive and some not so positive through facebook. Exposing myself to family and friends from High School whom I haven't had contact with in 30 years for many, leaving a town where most had no idea why a sudden move occurred. A town I love, feel very connected through my heart felt memories and roots. For me, it is mental rushes of the past, mixed with some of the current, brought to the surface for dealing with. Old feelings and fresh ones...grieving loss years past I never shared, learning of end of life with a close relative. If none of this makes sense, welcome to my mind this weekend...lol.. I know time will help, it is just a lot to expose oneself to in a short amount of time. I am holding hands with all the positives coming from this and leaving the hurt aside for today... I am sure something profound is going to be on the other side of this experience.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
For those wondering why I am on the computer and not in conference it was a little mix up, I had to make a decision....A Friday the 13th memory...
My last email had said I had a room; 2 beds in the inn with all the attractions for Tressa and I taken care of...if I didn't want to participate in either of the attractions I needed to inform them. I took Jordan knowing I would have to compensate for his tickets, care and needs..staying within our budget.. Babysitting for my group is very expensive as one would imagine. About $180.00 a day if I am away from the home 24 hour periods. So when I got to the resort and the fees were much higher and would have taken our entire months entertainment budget leaving out four of the six kids; did not feel right to me. If I am going to a resort with the amenities such as this ranch and pay; it needs to be a family time. So my decision was to return home with the information to plan a later return visit for our entire family.
The day was not wasted; Tressa, Jordan and I were out in the middle of Florida viewing Orange trees being cleaned and taken to the plant to be made into juice. We were able to see country where a John Deer tractor was working and when pulling over to watch the kids were thrilled to see animals in their pastures, just nature outside the city water side life we live.... Eco systems are the natural every day view my children are use to seeing... Country scenes are not the norm and are very fascinating to the kids.
Today we went to the Four Mile Cove just down the street from our home and took a walk in the beautiful weather we have today. An outside day, back home to swim and baby's to nap; Ayden is here for the weekend.
My last email had said I had a room; 2 beds in the inn with all the attractions for Tressa and I taken care of...if I didn't want to participate in either of the attractions I needed to inform them. I took Jordan knowing I would have to compensate for his tickets, care and needs..staying within our budget.. Babysitting for my group is very expensive as one would imagine. About $180.00 a day if I am away from the home 24 hour periods. So when I got to the resort and the fees were much higher and would have taken our entire months entertainment budget leaving out four of the six kids; did not feel right to me. If I am going to a resort with the amenities such as this ranch and pay; it needs to be a family time. So my decision was to return home with the information to plan a later return visit for our entire family.
The day was not wasted; Tressa, Jordan and I were out in the middle of Florida viewing Orange trees being cleaned and taken to the plant to be made into juice. We were able to see country where a John Deer tractor was working and when pulling over to watch the kids were thrilled to see animals in their pastures, just nature outside the city water side life we live.... Eco systems are the natural every day view my children are use to seeing... Country scenes are not the norm and are very fascinating to the kids.
Today we went to the Four Mile Cove just down the street from our home and took a walk in the beautiful weather we have today. An outside day, back home to swim and baby's to nap; Ayden is here for the weekend.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Welcome FAMILY Fennell's & Lequia's
I am a little emotional today from connections from a far..... Face book has put me back in touch with family I was VERY CLOSE with growing up although my life journey has taken me far from them... WELCOME FAMILY.
* My prayer warrior friends please place my cousin Brian in your prayers. You can read his story in the blogs I follow. He needs all of us to BELIEVE.
I am a single mom to eleven children. Live in the home I bought April 1991
Mandie- oldest you all know is now 30, getting married June 13th, 2009
She has Christopher 8 yrs old and Carmelo who just turned 2
Michelle- 27 lives near me with her son Ayden who will be 2 in July, never married
Kory who is single 25 and Kory..
Erin, I adopted at the age of 12 is now 25, has a little girl Lara 5 yrs old, lives in Portland OR not married
Joshua is single, 20yrs old, I adopted as an infant lives in IN
IN THE HOME:
the children I have adopted:
Keirsten 15 have had since a new born
Kaitlyn 14 adopted at the age of 3
Steven 9 adopted at the age of 2
Jordan 8 took home from the hospital at 2 days old (adopted)
Tressa 7 adopted at the age of 3 months
Lucas will be adopted in just days...he is now 5 from Hungary have had since June 16th
Kaitlyn, Steven, Jordan and Lucas all have Down syndrome--they have brought me the true meaning of LOVE..along with My Miss Tressa who was born with Prader-willi syndrome is amazing!
It is a journey full of rewards from the heart, you will see in my blogging.
* My prayer warrior friends please place my cousin Brian in your prayers. You can read his story in the blogs I follow. He needs all of us to BELIEVE.
I am a single mom to eleven children. Live in the home I bought April 1991
Mandie- oldest you all know is now 30, getting married June 13th, 2009
She has Christopher 8 yrs old and Carmelo who just turned 2
Michelle- 27 lives near me with her son Ayden who will be 2 in July, never married
Kory who is single 25 and Kory..
Erin, I adopted at the age of 12 is now 25, has a little girl Lara 5 yrs old, lives in Portland OR not married
Joshua is single, 20yrs old, I adopted as an infant lives in IN
IN THE HOME:
the children I have adopted:
Keirsten 15 have had since a new born
Kaitlyn 14 adopted at the age of 3
Steven 9 adopted at the age of 2
Jordan 8 took home from the hospital at 2 days old (adopted)
Tressa 7 adopted at the age of 3 months
Lucas will be adopted in just days...he is now 5 from Hungary have had since June 16th
Kaitlyn, Steven, Jordan and Lucas all have Down syndrome--they have brought me the true meaning of LOVE..along with My Miss Tressa who was born with Prader-willi syndrome is amazing!
It is a journey full of rewards from the heart, you will see in my blogging.
IEP went well
Jordan's IEP went well. I LOVE MY KIDS SCHOOL, they understand how much I care for the kids; they are, for the most part, right there. I know people say this is not "normal." It is in this school for my kids.
Jordan has slipped the past year from what ever is happening to him..Everything is consistent for him being presented in school and at home; learning materials all in the form he can learn. Today if it doesn't have purpose for him, he could care less. I also see a lot of the Dandy walker interference this year..He struggles with moving forward in learning and the slide happens. He doesn't seem too frustrated in learning it over, some times I am not sure he even understands he lost something he once had. He is calm which helps. The ADHD is very much more under control...now if he would have a "drive" to learn.... he could care less about reading.. loves books likes to be in control of talking about pictures, tell stories his way although taking the time to learn letters form works and words form sentences which have meaning...well puppies, frogs, balls, swimming, jumping --all more interesting to him hands on- not in learning. So we move on to second grade and never give up.
Jordan has slipped the past year from what ever is happening to him..Everything is consistent for him being presented in school and at home; learning materials all in the form he can learn. Today if it doesn't have purpose for him, he could care less. I also see a lot of the Dandy walker interference this year..He struggles with moving forward in learning and the slide happens. He doesn't seem too frustrated in learning it over, some times I am not sure he even understands he lost something he once had. He is calm which helps. The ADHD is very much more under control...now if he would have a "drive" to learn.... he could care less about reading.. loves books likes to be in control of talking about pictures, tell stories his way although taking the time to learn letters form works and words form sentences which have meaning...well puppies, frogs, balls, swimming, jumping --all more interesting to him hands on- not in learning. So we move on to second grade and never give up.
Off to Mr. Jordan's IEP
Has anyone ever put as their goals to meet the benchmarks to the access points for independent at the 2nd grade level? It is all documented and is set with FL DOE so wouldn't that be best in developing our goals and objectives for our kids other than the style of presenting to them to meet their learning style. I am finding so much paper process and developing time just takes away time form the quality of teaching my kids to meetings and paperwork..Lets just teach!! Everything else is already set in motion or am I being unreasonable??? OUCH, and yes I am heading into my team meeting!!! See you all on the other side.
If I have totally lost you here is the link..it is all there.
http://www.floridastandards.org/Standards/AccesspointSearch.aspx
http://etc.usf.edu/flstandards/la/index.html
If I have totally lost you here is the link..it is all there.
http://www.floridastandards.org/Standards/AccesspointSearch.aspx
http://etc.usf.edu/flstandards/la/index.html
What can be accomplished from 8 to 8:15 am...
It is pulled out by fingers and sprayed with hairspray, glasses on ready for school.
We have it all unwrapped
She is eating breakfast, I am unwrapping her hair.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
visual schedule
She has a non preferred then a preferred for motivation to complete.
When she completes a task she takes it off the front and puts it on the back..I set the schedule per day.. This way when she has an extra activity..such as speech, she doesn't have time to play in a bath so she sees it is shower night.
Computer programs we use...
I use Boardmaker all the time.
Super Duper Publications has a "WH" Questions level 1 and level 2 interactive games. I like this for the kids.
We have Edmark's "Let's go read" which has been very good for the kids kearning sounds and blends.
www.speechroom.com Question Games
by COSMI
Talking Math 4 Kids
Phonics 4 Kids
I focus on learning games for our playstation2 and Wii machines. Anything that has action is best... we have tons but these are used the most.
We have the SMART CYCLE which is interactive.
for my older child Math Facts in a Flash
I also have board style games with lots of WH questions about real life items...shopping, tools, foods, places....etc.
Super Duper Publications has a "WH" Questions level 1 and level 2 interactive games. I like this for the kids.
We have Edmark's "Let's go read" which has been very good for the kids kearning sounds and blends.
www.speechroom.com Question Games
by COSMI
Talking Math 4 Kids
Phonics 4 Kids
I focus on learning games for our playstation2 and Wii machines. Anything that has action is best... we have tons but these are used the most.
We have the SMART CYCLE which is interactive.
for my older child Math Facts in a Flash
I also have board style games with lots of WH questions about real life items...shopping, tools, foods, places....etc.
On line reading program
Holly said:
Wow, that ranch looks awesome. I just might have to book a getaway :-)Would you mind sharing the name of the online reading program Jordan is using and any other educational software your kids enjoy?
March 11, 2009 10:50 AM
MY RESPONSE:
Scholastic has a program on line called "click smart" Research based, Thoroughly tested, demonstrated effective, and meets No Child Left Behind requirements.
www.headsprout.com They offer a 3 session free trial to see if it fits your child's needs. Then it goes up to 80 lessons. The best part about this on line program is that it tracks the amount of clicks it takes for your child to learn a skill and logs their progress, records it and sends a report via email to you. This is an accredited program and approved by the FL DOE so if you are in a failing school your school can use this program to provide data that your kids are making progress. The program does cost money and you can make small payments if you can not afford the entire amount up front. Another important piece is that if your child clicks too many times to get through a lesson they will go back and start them at that lesson again until it is completed in a fashion it shows the child knows the skill.
Headsprout Early Reading, Episodes 1-80
• Episodes 1 - 80, no time limit on access • 80 "ready-to-read" printable stories • Includes 12 Headsprout Readers, Color Progress Map, and stickers • Amazement Guaranteed within 30 days or your money back (Just send us an email -- no need to return any materials) • Just $198 (shipping and handling are free) -- or 6 easy payments of $33
If that doesn't work for you---
Headsprout Early Reading, Episodes 1-40
• Episodes 1 - 40, no time limit on access • 30 "ready-to-read" printable stories • Just $99 plus shipping and handling ($4.99 US) -- or 5 easy payments of $21 • Includes 6 Headsprout Readers, Color Progress Map, and stickers • You'll later have an opportunity to purchase Headsprout Early Reading, Episodes 41-80, for $99 plus shipping and handling ($4.99 US) -- or 5 easy payments of $21
Wow, that ranch looks awesome. I just might have to book a getaway :-)Would you mind sharing the name of the online reading program Jordan is using and any other educational software your kids enjoy?
March 11, 2009 10:50 AM
MY RESPONSE:
Scholastic has a program on line called "click smart" Research based, Thoroughly tested, demonstrated effective, and meets No Child Left Behind requirements.
www.headsprout.com They offer a 3 session free trial to see if it fits your child's needs. Then it goes up to 80 lessons. The best part about this on line program is that it tracks the amount of clicks it takes for your child to learn a skill and logs their progress, records it and sends a report via email to you. This is an accredited program and approved by the FL DOE so if you are in a failing school your school can use this program to provide data that your kids are making progress. The program does cost money and you can make small payments if you can not afford the entire amount up front. Another important piece is that if your child clicks too many times to get through a lesson they will go back and start them at that lesson again until it is completed in a fashion it shows the child knows the skill.
Headsprout Early Reading, Episodes 1-80
• Episodes 1 - 80, no time limit on access • 80 "ready-to-read" printable stories • Includes 12 Headsprout Readers, Color Progress Map, and stickers • Amazement Guaranteed within 30 days or your money back (Just send us an email -- no need to return any materials) • Just $198 (shipping and handling are free) -- or 6 easy payments of $33
If that doesn't work for you---
Headsprout Early Reading, Episodes 1-40
• Episodes 1 - 40, no time limit on access • 30 "ready-to-read" printable stories • Just $99 plus shipping and handling ($4.99 US) -- or 5 easy payments of $21 • Includes 6 Headsprout Readers, Color Progress Map, and stickers • You'll later have an opportunity to purchase Headsprout Early Reading, Episodes 41-80, for $99 plus shipping and handling ($4.99 US) -- or 5 easy payments of $21
My day is not as positive as I was hoping it would be. The Ranch is booked so says central reservations..When I call group bookings it cycles the recording back to the initial answer on whatever number I choose to push.. ugh. I am emailing and will call Friday to see if anyone cancels through central reservations... the resort is cool http://www.wgriverranch.com/ for any interested. We get a special rate of $109.00 a night then $21.00 for hayride and BBQ for adults and $12.00 per child.. The rodeo is Saturday night and that is $12.00 for adults and $6.00 for kids... so we are waiting to hear....They have package deals with skeet shooting, horse back riding, ski/fishing/ pontoon boat rentals and much, much more. This weekend Florida families raising children with PWS will be at the Ranch. Tressa's best friend Chloe will be there and the "moms" are doing our best to get us there. The scholarships to attend are most likely gone this late in the game....ugh.
Jordan is home with me doing his on line reading program today. He is not adjusting to the time change, was up several time during the night as was Kaitlyn. When it is so dark in the morning it is hard to get them moving.
I think I am going to swim in the pool and relax in the SUNSHINE!
Jordan is home with me doing his on line reading program today. He is not adjusting to the time change, was up several time during the night as was Kaitlyn. When it is so dark in the morning it is hard to get them moving.
I think I am going to swim in the pool and relax in the SUNSHINE!
changing plans....
Tressa woke this morning quoting today is Wednesday, tomorrow is Thursday and... I cut in and said it is going to be a beautiful day today Tressa...she went on to say then Friday and when I wake up Saturday I will go to the airport.... No stopping her when she has her mind on something. I was in my morning routine which wasn't going so well... The kids are struggling with the time change and an earlier bus pick up. They took an hour from us and then the bus pick up changed the same day by ten minutes earlier due to adding more children to the route. AND it is Florida testing... Hello, could they have scheduled that any worse for our kiddo's.
The point is... the trip to Seattle isn't happening this weekend and will not occur for some time due to things beyond my control so I need to inform Tressa in a way it isn't heart breaking for her... I started today by letting her know one of the birth family has the flu and a very bad flu is going around out there right now so we might not go.... She took it well although I am sure for the day she will hold on to the might because she made a comment all her friends at school will miss her... I did not want to hit her with the we are not going until after school because she could use it to be destructive while she works through it...She has brand new glasses not even a week old on, and the school shouldn't have to deal with it ...... I will tell her when she gets home.
I just thought of all the things were were going to miss by going and I need to RSVP for a weekend with her best friend with PWS!!!! That will be very good news for her. I am hoping off here to see if there are any rooms left at the ranch!
The point is... the trip to Seattle isn't happening this weekend and will not occur for some time due to things beyond my control so I need to inform Tressa in a way it isn't heart breaking for her... I started today by letting her know one of the birth family has the flu and a very bad flu is going around out there right now so we might not go.... She took it well although I am sure for the day she will hold on to the might because she made a comment all her friends at school will miss her... I did not want to hit her with the we are not going until after school because she could use it to be destructive while she works through it...She has brand new glasses not even a week old on, and the school shouldn't have to deal with it ...... I will tell her when she gets home.
I just thought of all the things were were going to miss by going and I need to RSVP for a weekend with her best friend with PWS!!!! That will be very good news for her. I am hoping off here to see if there are any rooms left at the ranch!
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
I made it!
You just can not imagine mornings here. I have things so organized but I set myself up by staying up so late..I joined facebook awhile back and recently have done search after search with my school yearbooks in one hand and fingers typing on the other... It is paying off as many many connections are being made... then it was hard to keep married and maiden names straight because of my many contacts with disabilities; who is who and how do I keep this all straight?? I decided to open a group where my High School friends would go exclusively and that just heightened searching for pictures of my school, my home town land marks with memories that needed commented on...my mind going places it hasn't been in YEARS and off into the early morning hours emailing , commenting and strolling down memory lane which actually we called Bud lane and remembering beer back then was Pabst blue Ribbon...YUCK! We lived near the brewery I guess must have been the reason, although for sure Budweiser was the "cool" beer... Me not really liking beer so much preferred a 7/7 even today although with age nothing is "the same." A quality Blushing goose is leaning to my now preferred. One drink and I am done --planning for a good head ache if I d o not drink a gallon of water... Maturity kicks in at many ages.
This morning I was not sure if I was going to get the kids ALL on their bus. I was firm with Jordan if he stayed home we were "today" going for his blood draw but if not it must be done before Friday... I was hoping it wasn't today because once Steven is on the bus, I so want to lay back down.... I never do that but today know if I don't, I will crash... The kids want to do fun stuff each night before I leave on Saturday -- I need energy when they get home.
This morning I was not sure if I was going to get the kids ALL on their bus. I was firm with Jordan if he stayed home we were "today" going for his blood draw but if not it must be done before Friday... I was hoping it wasn't today because once Steven is on the bus, I so want to lay back down.... I never do that but today know if I don't, I will crash... The kids want to do fun stuff each night before I leave on Saturday -- I need energy when they get home.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Dr. Young
We got to the Dentist who has known me for some time. She did a quality first visit and Lucas was good with her counting his teeth, scrapping some plaque off and giving a good bill of health.
Keirsten on the other hand has 2 cavities, needs to go back in two weeks. She didn't take her ADHD medication and oh boy did it show.... Acted like a 2 year old when we were making the return visit..
I ran Keirsten home to Mandie, then went on to Health Park with Lucas to see the Neurologist. Once in the office his staff copied ALL the medical records. First Doctor in the area to copy ALL the records. Most are in Hungary native language. Medical is Latin based so much of it I was able to figure out although much more I couldn't. It was one of the most unusual visits I have been on. I was well versed on questions for this Doctor although no one told be he just got out of Middle school....(joking). He couldn't have been over 18 years old...LOL (again joking) Made me a little hot actually....in a room all alone..well Lucas was sorta there ....and this hot young body making eye to eye contact, seeming to be interested in every word I had to say...... and even said I could teach him a thing or two..... You bet !!! I would "volunteer" for that even.....LOL OK, all kidding aside, he was fascinated in my day to day experiences raising the kids. Yeah, it was all about the kids I am raising.... One of his earlier patients today was a baby with Prader-willi syndrome. He said she was "SWEET" he seemed a little taken back when my face had to have been off with a definition of "sweet"... I explained my little girl is now 7 and although she can be sweet.... Sweet is stretching the over all characteristic I would use... Sweet....yes she is sweet... tough days and thank goodness we have moments of sweet...lol I did explain she is funny, very very funny and keeps me on my toes because one NEVER KNOWS what will come out of her mouth at any given time.
Example.. She believes JUNO is now her favorite movie (today) I asked her why...she said because she gets pregnant. I was taken by the answer and said well how did that happen....she says...Cause she bought a pregnant stick at the store. I told her she better never buy a pregnant stick.. LOL She agreed. She thinks the girl is funny. It is a base to build on, today we will promise no shopping for pregnancy sticks.
FCATS are tomorrow...no home work tonight and the schools says get to bed early. I cannot be happier.
SO lets get back to Dr. Young Blood. He was so cute, (nice/funny/personable) and said he is going to give Lucas an exam, but really he sees nothing of concern, actually feels he can learn a whole lot from me. He would like to have a connection for further patients as me as the resource. Does this count for internship...?? I am up for a Doctorate. I am always happy to help... It concerns me when parents or professionals comment about baby's with PWS and how good they are, how sweet they are...etc... I remember she would have slept entire days away even two if I did not wake her up and make her work...yes she cried, yes she hated most of the work but she got strong, has been making gains and is doing very well...She is very smart... Doesn't miss a thing. I could have let her sleep and look sweet and "be good" Who knows how that would have turned out for her.
Keirsten on the other hand has 2 cavities, needs to go back in two weeks. She didn't take her ADHD medication and oh boy did it show.... Acted like a 2 year old when we were making the return visit..
I ran Keirsten home to Mandie, then went on to Health Park with Lucas to see the Neurologist. Once in the office his staff copied ALL the medical records. First Doctor in the area to copy ALL the records. Most are in Hungary native language. Medical is Latin based so much of it I was able to figure out although much more I couldn't. It was one of the most unusual visits I have been on. I was well versed on questions for this Doctor although no one told be he just got out of Middle school....(joking). He couldn't have been over 18 years old...LOL (again joking) Made me a little hot actually....in a room all alone..well Lucas was sorta there ....and this hot young body making eye to eye contact, seeming to be interested in every word I had to say...... and even said I could teach him a thing or two..... You bet !!! I would "volunteer" for that even.....LOL OK, all kidding aside, he was fascinated in my day to day experiences raising the kids. Yeah, it was all about the kids I am raising.... One of his earlier patients today was a baby with Prader-willi syndrome. He said she was "SWEET" he seemed a little taken back when my face had to have been off with a definition of "sweet"... I explained my little girl is now 7 and although she can be sweet.... Sweet is stretching the over all characteristic I would use... Sweet....yes she is sweet... tough days and thank goodness we have moments of sweet...lol I did explain she is funny, very very funny and keeps me on my toes because one NEVER KNOWS what will come out of her mouth at any given time.
Example.. She believes JUNO is now her favorite movie (today) I asked her why...she said because she gets pregnant. I was taken by the answer and said well how did that happen....she says...Cause she bought a pregnant stick at the store. I told her she better never buy a pregnant stick.. LOL She agreed. She thinks the girl is funny. It is a base to build on, today we will promise no shopping for pregnancy sticks.
FCATS are tomorrow...no home work tonight and the schools says get to bed early. I cannot be happier.
SO lets get back to Dr. Young Blood. He was so cute, (nice/funny/personable) and said he is going to give Lucas an exam, but really he sees nothing of concern, actually feels he can learn a whole lot from me. He would like to have a connection for further patients as me as the resource. Does this count for internship...?? I am up for a Doctorate. I am always happy to help... It concerns me when parents or professionals comment about baby's with PWS and how good they are, how sweet they are...etc... I remember she would have slept entire days away even two if I did not wake her up and make her work...yes she cried, yes she hated most of the work but she got strong, has been making gains and is doing very well...She is very smart... Doesn't miss a thing. I could have let her sleep and look sweet and "be good" Who knows how that would have turned out for her.
It is one of those mornings that you know you have so much to get done, be ready for and would like to look your best...BUT ...the fact you couldn't sleep and the Internet never shuts down, you now pay the price for ringing in the new day on your notebook. It must have been about 1 am Tressa was up and thirsty, then Kaitlyn was changing beds to couch back to bed about 1:30ish again at 2 and was up moving around at 5....I am sure more happenings were created during my rem sleep and I simply am not aware. The kitchen was secure this morning therefore a successful lock down....lol The "spring" hour seemed to hit like a brick wall. Tressa was awake although not her usual sunshine personality. She was up a few times in the night, I found her leaving my room at one point...She comes to seek a drink of water next to my bed when hers is empty. I have to be careful that if I make a loaded drink- I either finish it completely or be sure to dispose it because she will drink it.
I have two dentist appointments and then to the neurologist for Lucas. I have not been the best at keeping my calendar therefore this day is crammed mid day while tourists are peak and roads are miserable by the beach where I have to go....College's spring breaks. we are like # 3 or 4 top "hot spot" and this week the weather is PERFECT so I assume it will be slammed out there.
Tomorrow is packing day... Packing for eight days in cold climate without Jordan catching wind of it... We talked this weekend, all he did is cry/wine; "Don't go-stay" Mandie assures me after day 2 or 3 he calms down and as long as I DO NOT CALL he remains Ok until about the day before I return, he seems to feel it. The rest...Cherish their sister time. I am not sure sister is ready for these early bus departures and with her being over loaded with wedding planning....but like she said- she looks for the prize. Eight days of respite service will help very much with wedding expenses. I can not tell you how wonderful it is to have someone you trust 110% with the kids when I am away. When your children can not verbalize well it is important they are never put into situations which you can not say 100% they are safe. I feel fortunate to have her.
I have two dentist appointments and then to the neurologist for Lucas. I have not been the best at keeping my calendar therefore this day is crammed mid day while tourists are peak and roads are miserable by the beach where I have to go....College's spring breaks. we are like # 3 or 4 top "hot spot" and this week the weather is PERFECT so I assume it will be slammed out there.
Tomorrow is packing day... Packing for eight days in cold climate without Jordan catching wind of it... We talked this weekend, all he did is cry/wine; "Don't go-stay" Mandie assures me after day 2 or 3 he calms down and as long as I DO NOT CALL he remains Ok until about the day before I return, he seems to feel it. The rest...Cherish their sister time. I am not sure sister is ready for these early bus departures and with her being over loaded with wedding planning....but like she said- she looks for the prize. Eight days of respite service will help very much with wedding expenses. I can not tell you how wonderful it is to have someone you trust 110% with the kids when I am away. When your children can not verbalize well it is important they are never put into situations which you can not say 100% they are safe. I feel fortunate to have her.
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