tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80238725814676318912024-02-19T03:10:31.313-08:00Specially Designed. . . enjoying life, parenting a teen who has Down syndrome,Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.comBlogger123125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-88653391575031390522011-09-16T14:35:00.000-07:002011-09-16T14:54:49.925-07:00Falling for you<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKskJiaMJWj7zo46t5B3ldMJTKstQdFbJEPl1U6mZl_feDxEyY6FQtgUcW07c7l3smkQxHC8mMfvtDbtW0Kxa4Jh_v_Fopjad8oJBDVHAfFx2GSEXAzj0oPqlWe6_dlP6ENn97TYt_2SRg/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKskJiaMJWj7zo46t5B3ldMJTKstQdFbJEPl1U6mZl_feDxEyY6FQtgUcW07c7l3smkQxHC8mMfvtDbtW0Kxa4Jh_v_Fopjad8oJBDVHAfFx2GSEXAzj0oPqlWe6_dlP6ENn97TYt_2SRg/s400/001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653079028753270738" border="0" /></a>Oh, Fall, how I love you! Let me count the ways . . . Wait, how many (or rather, how few) days ago was it that I was lamenting an approaching 96* day? Things can switch around rather quickly here. But if pumpkins the size of basketballs are in the grocery store and I put the lovely fall wreath on the door, I can <span style="font-weight: bold;">will</span> fall here, right? Well, maybe not to stay.<br /><br />What is Indian Summer anyway? I think it is when a few hot days come back here and there. Maybe that's what we had. But today is cool and crisp, and I think I smell cinnamon. Football captivates many minds around me and shorts are not the first item I reach for each day. (But don't be thinking I am ditching my beloved flip flops yet. They are the last remnant of summer every year!)<br /><br />Mostly, I think, fall brings change. 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name="Bibliography"> <w:lsdexception locked="false" priority="39" qformat="true" name="TOC Heading"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">I am the older sister.<span style=""> </span>Maybe enough said.<span style=""> </span>I am responsible—too responsible.<span style=""> </span>I had to be the driver of the car that arrived home at or before curfew in high school, so I was accustomed to being the nail biter.<span style=""> </span>Would baby sister round up easily at the arcade to make it home in time?<span style=""> </span>Being a responsible mother came naturally for me.<span style=""> </span>This role is now so ingrained, it is hard to let it go.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Except for when dear younger son kicks in.<span style=""> </span>I found it delightful today when he nervously pointed at the fuel light on in my car.<span style=""> </span>He gestured frantically at a nearby gas station since I was on the phone.<span style=""> </span>(Wow, so that’s what it feels like for someone else to worry about things!)<span style=""> </span>He loves to go to church youth on Wednesday nights, so this evening he kept a vigilant eye on his watch.<span style=""> </span>He ate a quick dinner, took my plate (wait!), put a few things away, changed clothes and announced he would be in the car.<span style=""> </span>Right on time!<span style=""> </span>Hmm, I could really get used to letting him pick up some of this “responsible” stuff.<span style=""> </span>I think I am getting a little too old for it.</p>Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-27469447038363630082011-09-10T21:04:00.000-07:002011-09-10T21:25:04.904-07:00What's That Chu Say?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiigYEh6LuT64dx2FDTYd6ZFDdgIUN47eqOs41r-njtss4rnCF13MtFTp8TbAsng0K7CHsmn_0nixV7ZUW7DNncVlxJsVziDH4Bupi1F6LCc4JrdAXBe8GMtI7XuyfUPwEJizJbz7Vv0PDW/s1600/heat+miser.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 209px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiigYEh6LuT64dx2FDTYd6ZFDdgIUN47eqOs41r-njtss4rnCF13MtFTp8TbAsng0K7CHsmn_0nixV7ZUW7DNncVlxJsVziDH4Bupi1F6LCc4JrdAXBe8GMtI7XuyfUPwEJizJbz7Vv0PDW/s400/heat+miser.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650953034374907810" border="0" /></a>A stranger burst my bubble today. I was walking past her house with my husband on a little stroll. It was perfectly lovely outside and I was enjoying the outdoors. She sat idly on her porch and called out, "Great day to be outside, isn't it?" We agreed and she proceeded to remark on how nice it has been. Indeed! We have needed no air conditioning for over a week. This <span style="font-style: italic;">is</span> remarkable!<br /><br />Then it came out. "I hear it is supposed to be 96 next week, though." What?? "We can't seem to get away from it," she added. I normally don't pay attention to weather forecasts and just accept each day's weather as if it were my screen saver; it's just the background, you know? When people complain about the weather, I simply shrug because -- what can you do? It is what it is and we don't get a vote.<br /><br />But because of our unusually brutal summer, it felt like she said, "We will have 7 more weeks of oppressive heat and we will all perish because of its intensity." Really, 96? Really? I'm paying attention to <span style="font-weight: bold;">that</span>.Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-50825628726573726322011-09-08T11:43:00.000-07:002011-09-08T12:13:29.919-07:00Her Rock Star Highness<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy5GLNTM3fDHb-MoXurN2j5NWDhTPQRRzWbCuRxrFzhWx0k1gyBDvN-crKW3uN-iTJJl06vbv4r3Iw_I6WR9PO0upDuq44qAglpMY-s0zPkK7k-r_bq2OCbisqT9vURYIfHCe6V4Wworlh/s1600/rock+star.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy5GLNTM3fDHb-MoXurN2j5NWDhTPQRRzWbCuRxrFzhWx0k1gyBDvN-crKW3uN-iTJJl06vbv4r3Iw_I6WR9PO0upDuq44qAglpMY-s0zPkK7k-r_bq2OCbisqT9vURYIfHCe6V4Wworlh/s400/rock+star.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650068036902974914" border="0" /></a>Ok, the reason I am so excited about taking more photos is because I had a tutorial with a famous lady! Long story short, I was headed to Madison, WI again with my husband, and a few weeks before departure I offhandedly remarked that the only person I "knew" in Madison was this blogger lady, Donna Boucher. Of course, she didn't "know" me, I only "knew" her. Anyway, Sweet, Fabulous, Amazing Man o' Mine did an unthinkable thing! He contacted my blogging crush and asked not only if I could meet her but if I could have a photography tutorial with her!!!!!!! And this was my birthday present.<br /><br />The Man is definitely set for life. He need not do one other thing. Ever. I was so flabbergasted when he wrote this all out for me and gave it to me that I was speechless. And continued to think over and over how speechless I would be to meet Donna. And how I could not think of a single photography question because I would be in the presence of her Rock Star Highness. I was so giddy.<br /><br />Well, Donna met every expectation and more. I'll tell about her some later. If you want to read her at <a href="http://booshay.blogspot.com/">Quiet Life</a>, you will enjoy her. If you want to read what she wrote about our visit, it's on her Tuesday, August 23rd post. Oh, one of her credentials is writing photography tutorials for Pioneer Woman!Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-87201315349659747782011-09-06T17:21:00.000-07:002011-09-06T17:26:28.238-07:00In Short Supply and High Demand<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU_eMzM0OGK2hrKee6FFxIcLAeoAq0j4bks2WTCVByJ301s4cZH-E4MTT5DyhiEqnTamY0QORRtboWOO0S_TWIyFY07vrEvFWgNUGTtQq6o43qMQiaiYfgHDtblQJt8hqYg4CbZvKNtkhG/s1600/221.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU_eMzM0OGK2hrKee6FFxIcLAeoAq0j4bks2WTCVByJ301s4cZH-E4MTT5DyhiEqnTamY0QORRtboWOO0S_TWIyFY07vrEvFWgNUGTtQq6o43qMQiaiYfgHDtblQJt8hqYg4CbZvKNtkhG/s400/221.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5649406541449200706" border="0" /></a>Recently shot on State Street in Madison, Wisconsin, where I found my impetus to shoot, shoot, and shoot some more. (I'll tell all soon.) <br /><br />Don't keep them, give them away. Everyone is dying for some. (Even more than they want that soda, chocolate, and ice cream!) This world needs each and every kind word you can spare.Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-3067777086583480082011-08-29T10:24:00.000-07:002011-08-29T10:32:26.055-07:00Is it Whiney?Is it whiney to call your mom up and say, "Child #2 is home sick with a stomach virus, my garage door is broken, and Child #1 has a warrant out for his arrest. How are you?"
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<br />She is fine. Just fine, because she happily stayed here while I accompanied my husband out of state last week and she knows this could be her. Actually, the stomach virus could be worse, doors can be fixed, and the child has only missed his court date by 4 days in another state. (Running a stop sign is not a felony, but do you really think you can ignore a ticket??)
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<br />I have missed blogging. I am newly invigorated to take more photos and there is a good reason for that! I can't wait to share that with you.
<br />Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-81835075987137479972011-05-05T09:34:00.000-07:002011-05-05T09:49:14.025-07:00Looking Toward SummerI like that feeling of excitement mixed with panic, do you? That is how I feel about summer approaching and many days of no school, no schedule ahead. I told you how I started planning so many things for my son because spring break made me think. Lots of days, all sprawling ahead, make me think, "Yay!" and "Uh oh, what is he gonna do? Help!" all at once.<div><br /></div><div>I called about therapeutic horseback riding and that seems to be in the works. Wow, a lot of paperwork, but hopefully, it will be worth it. I also want to find an art outlet for N, who seems to churn out quite a lot of drawings on a weekly basis. This seems to calm him, and I would like to find someone who can help him develop his abilities . . . I have so many areas I want to plug him into that we just don't seem to have the time for during the school year. Ah, so many possibilities!</div><div><br /></div><div>Currently, he is helping with the football team after school. They started spring practice, and he gets the equipment out and hands out protein drinks. He likes setting up the obstacle courses they run and has occasionally gotten to blow the whistle for them. I have met the coach once, who said that he gets things out there so quickly for them and that they can't wait to have him on the sidelines with them in the fall. This was great to hear. I have trouble, though, just letting him stay after school and do his thing. I wonder how well he is following directions, wonder if he is really helping, whether he understands, etc. </div><div><br /></div><div>It is hard to be the parent of a teen who looks capable and just assume that no news is good news. I don't want to be in the middle of it all, but I do feel the need for some more communication! Is this going to be a normal feeling or will I eventually let go all the way?</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-65408439536204630652011-04-23T13:28:00.000-07:002011-04-23T14:02:29.703-07:00An Easter Tale (or ear)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.confectionsbyjoel.com/images/products/chocolate%20bunny%20with%20flower.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://www.confectionsbyjoel.com/images/products/chocolate%20bunny%20with%20flower.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Every year I like to recall a certain story to my boy about a certain younger boy who woke his mother up one Easter morning with urgency in his voice. This is how it goes: The young boy was poking his sleeping mother on the shoulder and whispering, "Momma, momma . . . " When her eyes came to a focus and met his, they were met with a deep concern. "I sowwy. I vewy, <span style="font-weight: bold;">VEWY</span> sowwy." The poor boy appeared to be about to cry. The still drowsy mom suddenly woke with a panic and sat up on one elbow. "Sorry about what, sweetie?" The confession was much slower coming than she would have liked, for all sorts of thoughts were racing through her mind. As he was working up his nerve, she noticed a wrapper clinched in his tiny fist and some tell-tale chocolate on his lips. Seems he had discovered the treasure left by the Easter bunny and had helped himself! "I ate the bunny's ears." "Oh? and what else?" "His tail." "And what else?" (A few tears now.) "All of him."<br /><br />He knew he should not have done that, but it <span style="font-style: italic;">was</span> pretty cute. It was quite a large bunny for one small fellow to consume at once, but he did not seem to suffer for it. He always starts with the ears and I always take a picture while he does. But not that year! And the bunnies have gotten smaller through the years -- just in case!<br /><img src="file:///C:/Users/Johnna/AppData/Local/Temp/moz-screenshot-2.png" alt="" />Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-47497320001709620212011-04-20T15:38:00.000-07:002011-04-23T14:01:32.260-07:00Hiatus InterruptedOkay, so it has been a long time since I posted. Holla if you missed me! Turns out, things have been kinda topsy turvy, as life is wont to be sometimes. I suppose the event that took me away from bloggyville the longest involved my grandmother passing away. She was 89, had vascular dementia, and lived in a nursing home. I like to think more about other parts of her life than her last 8 years because she was a really fabulous lady.<br /><br />It is great to have someone of upstanding character in one's lineage. Mind you, I have plenty of unsavory examples also in my lineage, but those can be for another post! My grandmother was a woman who served and gave a lot in her life. She was adventurous and even drove three of us grandchildren on a trip to Washington D.C., Jamestown, and to see the Biltmore-- all by herself. It was important to her that we see all that and know our nation's history. She was successful in those goals and in giving her grandchildren a trip we will never forget.<br /><br />So many things could paint a picture of her, but one big thing stands out in my mind. She gave parties at her home for teenagers who had special needs. Her only connection was that a good friend's daughter had an intellectual disability, and my grandmother wanted her to have a good time, like all other teens do. I knew this was an unusual act of service when I was growing up, but not until I had my own child with special needs did I realize what a huge gift she gave her friend. Our kids SO need social opportunities.<br /><br />I am grateful for her example of acceptance, giving, and serving. I suppose her life is a challenge to me to pick up that baton and follow in her determined way.Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-24242368611100911402011-04-01T13:08:00.000-07:002011-04-23T14:01:09.113-07:00Who's Thinking About Next School Year?I am!! In browsing around, I found some excellent material online that I wish I had found much earlier! Such good info about IEP meetings, involving the student and self-advocacy. Wow! 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font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><b><span style=";font-family:";" >What Exactly Does Self-Advocacy Mean?</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";" >It means taking the responsibility for communicating one’s needs and desires in a straightforward manner to others. It is a set of skills that includes:</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:Wingdings;font-size:10pt;" >§ </span><span style=";font-family:";" >Speaking up for yourself</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:Wingdings;font-size:10pt;" >§ </span><span style=";font-family:";" >Communicating your strengths, needs and wishes</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:Wingdings;font-size:10pt;" >§ </span><span style=";font-family:";" >Being able to listen to the opinions of others, even when their opinions differ from yours</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:Wingdings;font-size:10pt;" >§ </span><span style=";font-family:";" >Having a sense of self-respect</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:Wingdings;font-size:10pt;" >§ </span><span style=";font-family:";" >Taking responsibility for yourself</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:Wingdings;font-size:10pt;" >§ </span><span style=";font-family:";" >Knowing your rights</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-family:Wingdings;font-size:10pt;" >§ </span><span style=";font-family:";" >Knowing where to get help or who to go to with a question</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";" >One of the best places to start teaching your child about self-advocacy is in his or her Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings. Including your son or daughter in the IEP meeting provides him or her with an opportunity to learn and practice important life skills. Some advantages your child may gain by being involved in the IEP process include:</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:Wingdings;font-size:9pt;" >§ </span><span style=";font-family:";" >Learning about the impact of his or her disability</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:Wingdings;font-size:9pt;" >§ </span><span style=";font-family:";" >Practicing goal setting</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:Wingdings;font-size:9pt;" >§ </span><span style=";font-family:";" >Building teamwork skills</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:Wingdings;font-size:9pt;" >§ </span><span style=";font-family:";" >Developing an ability to speak up for himself or herself</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:Wingdings;font-size:9pt;" >§ </span><span style=";font-family:";" >Participating in a process of resolving differences</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:Wingdings;font-size:9pt;" >§ </span><span style=";font-family:";" >Gaining an understanding of his or her strengths and needs</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:Wingdings;font-size:9pt;" >§ </span><span style=";font-family:";" >Learning how to ask for and accept help from others.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";" >Even very young children can contribute to their IEP meetings. If you feel your child is too young to participate in the entire meeting, you may choose to include him or her just in the opening of the meeting. This helps your child to know the IEP team members better and to start to be more comfortable in a child to display at the meeting. You can also receive your child’s input before you attend the IEP meeting. Ask your child if there is anything he or she would like to share at the meeting or to have you share. It can also be very beneficial to ask each team member to state one positive trait or skill your child has as you begin the meeting. Be sure to include your child in this sharing of positives. After the IEP meeting, sit down with your child and explain the goals and services or answer any questions your child may have.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" >As your child becomes older, the ways in which he or she can participate in his or her IEP meetings greatly increases. It is important to discuss the meeting process with your child beforehand. Role-playing being in an IEP meeting with your child can be a great teaching tool and may help your child to feel less anxious about participating.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><b><span style=";font-family:";" >Some Questions You May Want to Discuss with Your Son or Daughter Prior to the IEP</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><b><span style=";font-family:";" >Meeting Are:</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";" >What do you want to learn or work on this year?</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";" >What are your special concerns for the school year?</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";" >How do you learn the best?</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";" >What do you need to be successful?</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";" >What would make learning easier for you?</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";" >What do you wish your teacher and other school staff would understand about you?</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" >Discuss with your child how to handle the situation if something negative or difficult to hear is said about him or her in the meeting. Determine at what point, if any, you would stop the meeting and have your child leave. If the meeting is likely to be too stressful or negative, have your child only attend part of it and determine the agenda ahead of time with the team. Be sure to include your child’s input on the agenda. If your child chooses not to attend a meeting, ask if he or she would be willing to share ideas or opinions in writing or on tape to provide to the team.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" >Get more of this good stuff <a href="http://www.dsawm.org/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=LHlqPLLMnB8%3D&tabid=88">here</a>.<br /></span></p>Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-33403956628369165172011-03-28T18:09:00.000-07:002011-04-23T13:55:50.100-07:00Spring Break<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:donotpromoteqf/> <w:lidthemeother>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> 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</w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">Spring break was here and gone before I knew it!<span style=""> </span>We had no plans, except for one day, which I will tell you about.<span style=""> </span>The rest just kinda .<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>. . . .<span style=""> </span>happened.<span style=""> </span>This triggers the planner in me every year – it makes me wonder about summer and what will fill my son’s days for those three months.<span style=""> </span>If one week is a bit too much unstructured time for him, what about the entire summer?<span style=""> </span>Yikes.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Our one planned day involved having some friends come visit from out of town.<span style=""> </span>We all lived in the same city years ago and we met because of . . .<span style=""> </span>you guessed it, Down syndrome.<span style=""> </span>Our two boys have enjoyed each other’s company a lot lately, and we have even met halfway between our towns to eat together as families.<span style=""> </span>It is nice to have another mom of a teenage son to discuss similar issues with.<span style=""> </span>She is a thoughtful and conscientious mom with lots of good ideas.<span style=""> </span>Because of her other two teens’ activities, she stays super busy but is so devoted to her middle guy, my son’s friend.<span style=""> </span>I love her.<span style=""> </span>Move back, please, J!!</p> <p class="MsoNormal">When they arrived, we went straight to our nearby indoor pool for the boys to enjoy some swimming.<span style=""> </span>This was mutually beneficial, as we moms got to get in lots (not all) of our confidential chatter without being overheard!<span style=""> </span>When they were waterlogged, they got changed and we walked to a restaurant for sustenance (and a milkshake).<span style=""> </span>The boys seemed somewhat more shy while we were at the table with them.<span style=""> </span>Maybe we should have set them at their own table?<span style=""> </span>At any rate, it was a great day with very special friends.<span style=""> </span>That was a highlight of our spring break.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Now the boys are texting each other.<span style=""> </span>We are loving this typical teen behavior and glad they can keep their connection going.<span style=""> </span>Now it’s their turn for confidential chatter!</p>Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-7284442123629058342011-03-16T20:17:00.000-07:002011-04-23T13:53:36.920-07:00Wild Weird WednesdayLife Lessons for Today:<br /><ol><li>Plans are nice, but life happens.</li><li>Interruptions happen.</li><li>It is good to breathe deeply.</li><li>Unexpected appointments happen.</li><li>Some things take much longer than the time I allot for them.</li><li>It is good to breathe deeply.</li><li>Some people are much too precious to sacrifice because of time stressors.</li><li>Waiting can be productive (cleaned out my purse, texted a few friends) and good for a relationship (played hangman with my son).</li></ol>Thanks to <a href="http://livingpower.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2011-03-14T16%3A01%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1">Laurie at Living Power</a> for a great post about waiting that I just read yesterday. How timely! She has some great ideas to fill our waits as we occupy exam rooms, etc.<br /><br />I was still reminding myself to breathe deeply at almost 6:00 p.m. What a weird and wacky day. I had more waiting this evening, but with a plan.<br /><br />Wait! Isn't that how I started this? Plans are nice, but life happens. My plans are not my own. His ways are higher than my ways. I can rest in that.Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-53070409050821572342011-03-15T15:47:00.000-07:002011-04-23T13:51:41.603-07:00A Very Brady Kind of House with Flower Power<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7EeRiVWLM2XoSNKOpiS0weI4mAA6vlTgI-5Uix-vmCGaMPB8vUXPcC2kMhOsamkrm3qszPCSEFGKiyGE1Azni6MRCTiUQMetI-B7nD0JhnG1DFLL0lT1KU66qvrg96oK3HItIg5ZIBH-x/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7EeRiVWLM2XoSNKOpiS0weI4mAA6vlTgI-5Uix-vmCGaMPB8vUXPcC2kMhOsamkrm3qszPCSEFGKiyGE1Azni6MRCTiUQMetI-B7nD0JhnG1DFLL0lT1KU66qvrg96oK3HItIg5ZIBH-x/s400/001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584446352681162002" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4EI1x5cpQhI7PdOeHK6CZgLc7C9TJZE7fGlv99lkvwtidirT-veKdiCgLi2Fz1f1Y9KufA5cBLsD7dtg7hr95WiNVBZ1NEOA1BYuQ3nJt751qzzOCCuXdrHadzp4UwZ_cN4Umuwu2ry8e/s1600/042.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4EI1x5cpQhI7PdOeHK6CZgLc7C9TJZE7fGlv99lkvwtidirT-veKdiCgLi2Fz1f1Y9KufA5cBLsD7dtg7hr95WiNVBZ1NEOA1BYuQ3nJt751qzzOCCuXdrHadzp4UwZ_cN4Umuwu2ry8e/s400/042.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584445987846870210" border="0" /></a><br />We have several unique features to our house, which was built in 1970. One of them is our "coke bottle" glass surrounding the front door. Oh, boy, was that gonna be the first thing I fixed! Nearly 13 years later, it still proudly guards sentry at the front. We have a cool wet bar with avocado green countertops, which I hear are back. The wet bar also boasts a lotus type light fixture. Groovy!<br /><br />I have gotten rid of the swag lamps that once hung so gracefully from my bathroom ceiling. We have floored over the previous kitchen linoleum and tiled over "genuine Mexican vinyl" in the laundry room (wish I had a picture of that!). But our entry floor still looks like . . . avocado with potato chips in it. The avocado part is my description, but a visiting kid once said, "Hey! That looks like potato chips in your floor! Is it?"<br /><br />An area rug kinda covered it, but I found another recently that I LOVE and it covers a little more. I don't feel the need to be rid of the floor anymore, especially when I think of walking on potato chips.<br /><br />Do you like my new rug, too?Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-46248197396935701342011-03-14T20:14:00.000-07:002011-03-14T20:50:58.993-07:00Making Life EasierI have been organizing a friend's paperwork. Because I like it. I know that is strange, but she is dealing with a long term medical crisis in her family and she asked me if I could take it over for her for pay. She and I have been friends since college, and there is no one I would rather do this for.<br /><br />I have enjoyed getting her stuffed chronologically filed and her bills on a schedule to be paid automatically. Dealing with several years' worth of paper has me thinking of the most efficient ways to do this, and it has me dealing with some of my own paper clutter. Photographs are my main paper issue. I have so many that I could never part with --so many in frames and oodles of albums. Space is becoming quite an issue!<br /><br />I recently purchased an external hard drive and have moved over all photos from my computer. It feels great to have these backed up, but what about all of my pre-digital stuff? Looks like some serious scanning is in my future.<br /><br />Tonight I was really getting down to the last of the photos and making some decisions about more albums, etc. I have even put several photos of ancestors in an album, all black and whites, names, dates of birth (if I know), and how they are related. Sweet N was right there with me, asking what he could organize. We even moved a little furniture around, placed a few things, and he got into a drawer with cords and electronics. He sorted and untangled these for awhile and did not want to quit! Later he said, "It feels good to be organized, doesn't it? It sorta makes our life easier, right?"<br /><br />Oh, out of the mouths of babes. But where is that voice when I am tossing random things in a drawer and slamming it shut?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdOQvjZXehgZcaT05qBqLy_WyVVDGHjGtcOo6xz4KE1V8AGDYbKAoXlFjENa0CCrpZhLlXAYOkNDflgQdDCXBrwdiv6ooOtbcvNzQFsTCHs6CFwxXQgztHyK1WsrchKdeIfxHNeNQGUrzJ/s1600/03-14-2011+10%253B28%253B53PM.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 128px; height: 228px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdOQvjZXehgZcaT05qBqLy_WyVVDGHjGtcOo6xz4KE1V8AGDYbKAoXlFjENa0CCrpZhLlXAYOkNDflgQdDCXBrwdiv6ooOtbcvNzQFsTCHs6CFwxXQgztHyK1WsrchKdeIfxHNeNQGUrzJ/s200/03-14-2011+10%253B28%253B53PM.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584144604437122018" border="0" /></a>Ok, just had to go and scan this one for ya! It is my paternal grandmother (standing, middle) who was the oldest of 5 girls. They posed with their mother for this shot in about 1936. I think each one looks absolutely stunning.Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-10596526026211300002011-03-08T10:12:00.000-08:002011-03-14T20:49:39.884-07:00Pascal Duquenne? Oui!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://static1.purepeople.com/articles/0/22/64/0/@/155632-pascal-duquenne-637x0-2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 637px; height: 994px;" src="http://static1.purepeople.com/articles/0/22/64/0/@/155632-pascal-duquenne-637x0-2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I like watching actors who have Down syndrome enjoy their craft. I came across this guy recently online (only in my dreams would it be in reality) who is an actor from Belgium.<br /><br />Watching his trailers is fun! Not only does he act very well, he does it in his native French, which is so cool to watch. He is 40 years old now and, wow-- handsome!<br /><br />I wanted to show you a trailer from a movie of his, but you tube is not cooperating with me today, so look him up.<br /><br />Check out his credits below: <div id="jump-to-nav"> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pascal_Duquenne#p-search"><br /></a> </div> <table class="infobox biography vcard" style="width: 22em;" cellspacing="5"> <tbody><tr> <th colspan="2" class="" style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold;font-size:125%;"><span class="fn">Pascal Duquenne</span></th> </tr> <tr class=""> <th scope="row" style="text-align: left;">Born</th> <td class="" style="">8 August 1970 <span style="display: none;">(<span class="bday">1<br /><br /><br /></span></span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vilvoorde">Vilvoorde</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flanders">Flanders</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belgium">Belgium</a></td> </tr> <tr class=""> <th scope="row" style="text-align: left;">Years active</th> <td class="" style="">1991, 1996, 2004, 2006</td> </tr> <tr class=""> <th scope="row" style="text-align: left;">Awards</th> <td class="" style=""><b><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Best_Actor_Award_%28Cannes_Film_Festival%29">Best Actor Award (Cannes Film Festival)</a></b><br />1996 <i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Eighth_Day_%28film%29" title="The Eighth Day (film)">The Eighth Day</a></i><br /><b>Joseph Plateau Award for Best Belgian Actor</b><br />1996 <i>The Eighth Day</i></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p><b>Pascal Duquenne</b> (b. 8 August 1970 in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vilvoorde">Vilvoorde</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belgium">Belgium</a>) is a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belgian" class="mw-redirect" title="Belgian">Belgian</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Actor">actor</a>. He shared the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Best_Actor_Award_%28Cannes_Film_Festival%29" title="Best Actor Award (Cannes Film Festival)">prize</a> for a male role in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1996_Cannes_Film_Festival">1996 Cannes Film Festival</a> for his performance as Georges in the movie <i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Le_Huiti%C3%A8me_Jour" title="Le Huitième Jour" class="mw-redirect">The Eighth Day</a></i>, with <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_Auteuil">Daniel Auteuil</a>, who played Harry.<sup id="cite_ref-festival-cannes.com_0-0" class="reference"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pascal_Duquenne#cite_note-festival-cannes.com-0"><span>[</span>1<span>]</span></a></sup> He currently lives in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brussels">Brussels</a>. He has <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Down_syndrome">Down syndrome</a>.<sup id="cite_ref-1" class="reference"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pascal_Duquenne#cite_note-1"><span>[</span>2<span>]</span></a></sup><sup id="cite_ref-2" class="reference"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pascal_Duquenne#cite_note-2"><span>[</span>3<span>]</span></a></sup><sup id="cite_ref-3" class="reference"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pascal_Duquenne#cite_note-3"><span>[</span>4<span>]</span></a></sup> In 2004 he received the very high civil distinction of Commander in the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Order_of_the_Crown_%28Belgium%29">Order of the Crown (Belgium)</a>.<sup id="cite_ref-4" class="reference"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pascal_Duquenne#cite_note-4"><span>[</span>5<span>]</span></a></sup></p><p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span><br /></p>Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-46160339997996470862011-03-07T11:01:00.001-08:002011-03-14T20:50:29.247-07:00This and That<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhytgTRqGb56ZdMQlQhWHvrkFzXrUHTMeRxsXVDGqRUf1jCFJnjzvB2vx12wZmIjPrOwPfBVWfpdfJql74snuOWWYzpQINdzwas5jrw4ow9Z1juFmaICgrwap5i9zW8fmjd2Fjq0j3VnQEp/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhytgTRqGb56ZdMQlQhWHvrkFzXrUHTMeRxsXVDGqRUf1jCFJnjzvB2vx12wZmIjPrOwPfBVWfpdfJql74snuOWWYzpQINdzwas5jrw4ow9Z1juFmaICgrwap5i9zW8fmjd2Fjq0j3VnQEp/s400/002.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581415551909801714" border="0" /></a>I could not resist the potted tulips at Kroger recently. I took them out for their photoshoot debut on Saturday, and they did beautifully, don't you think? I am in love with them. I almost did not splurge this way, but each time I glance their direction, they pay me back with loads of joy.<br /><br />We had such a nice weekend, despite our weather turning chilly again. It was okay, just not the mild spring-like temps that we have been teased with lately. It was so fabulous that N got an invitation to go to a concert! Social opportunities are the best and we are just as excited as he is when they come along. Yay for friends, for getting out, for enjoying good things! We are thankful.<br /><br />While at the concert, he ate everything that did not eat him first. I think his growth is slowing, but his appetite is not. While he is already taller than I am (5' 4"), this fast metabolism is not going to last forever, and what happens when he can't devour so many groceries anymore?? He has some habits in place that need to be tempered. But then . . . . so do I. (Like the 7 dark chocolate kisses that just disappeared while I have been sitting here.)<br /><br />Happy Monday.Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-69877990849963639412011-03-03T10:17:00.000-08:002011-03-14T20:48:04.359-07:00Thyroid Tune-Up<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEgMFu231_raewk7HpwQtwWkNOGFEOQ0e7a-9tht-H-lhTX1koHdP6s2foGcTY3X-v6u88vjvQFodSBVcfWfARMqWdi2cMQnpR1LQeedEwVR3Mleez9wwxVZaPWn04KgggREQr3OpAeTDe/s1600/023.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEgMFu231_raewk7HpwQtwWkNOGFEOQ0e7a-9tht-H-lhTX1koHdP6s2foGcTY3X-v6u88vjvQFodSBVcfWfARMqWdi2cMQnpR1LQeedEwVR3Mleez9wwxVZaPWn04KgggREQr3OpAeTDe/s400/023.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579921663535466882" border="0" /></a><br />I am thinking it is time for a thyroid tune-up for me. My start to the new year was energetic, but lately I am like a wind-up toy that is almost wound down! I could take a nap at almost any time of the day with no problem. <p class="MsoNormal">I have thyroid disease and have known it and been on medication for it for about 9 years.<span style=""> </span>The years that I was undiagnosed were so frustrating.<span style=""> </span>I felt like a really bad mother because many days (which developed into years) I could not hold my head up, much less be a fun and energetic mom.<span style=""> </span>When I look back I want to cry for those lost years.<span style=""> </span>But, thanks to a wreck where we were rear-ended (!), a doctor felt of my neck for whiplash and discovered the swollen thyroid.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>Having a doctor to palpate the thyroid, not just go by blood work numbers is KEY.<span style=""> </span>I had had so many “normal” blood workups.<span style=""> </span>Medication made for a slow but steady recovery, and I have enjoyed lots of good health since.<span style=""> </span>It makes me sad for the thousands who are undiagnosed, though.<span style=""> </span>And sad for the years I lost.<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">From emedicinehealth.com:</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" >Symptoms of hypothyroidism in <b>adults</b> include:</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" >Early symptoms</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" >Easy fatigue, exhaustion </span></p> <ul type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" >Poor tolerance to cold temperatures </span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" ><a href="http://www.emedicinehealth.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=59217"><span style="color:blue;">Carpal tunnel syndrome</span></a> (pain at the wrists and numbness of the hands)</span></li></ul> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" >Later symptoms</span></p> <ul type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" >Poor appetite </span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" >Weight gain </span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" >Dry skin </span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" ><a href="http://www.emedicinehealth.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=58925"><span style="color:blue;">Hair loss</span></a> </span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" >Intellectual ability worsens </span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" >Deeper, hoarse voice </span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" >Puffiness around the eyes </span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" ><a href="http://www.emedicinehealth.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=58644"><span style="color:blue;">Depression</span></a></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" ><a href="http://www.emedicinehealth.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=58758"><span style="color:blue;">Irregular menstrual periods</span></a> or <a href="http://www.emedicinehealth.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=59246"><span style="color:blue;">lack of menstrual periods</span></a></span></li></ul> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" >If you or someone you know is struggling with undiagnosed “feeling bad”, don’t give up!<span style=""> </span>Keep seeking the solution.<span style=""> </span>Perhaps you need a different doctor or someone to go with you who will be persistent.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" >Stress can contribute to the destruction of the thyroid.<span style=""> </span>Learn how to manage your stress and delegate.<span style=""> </span>Raising a child with special needs can be stressful!<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; line-height: normal;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" >What’s your favorite stress buster?</span></p>Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-19645412548202493992011-02-28T10:05:00.000-08:002011-03-14T20:47:33.771-07:00Phoenix Learning ResourcesI have referenced my joy at having some learning resources to turn to for my son.<span style=""> <a href="http://speciallydesignedblog.blogspot.com/2010/08/what-wizard-said.html"> </a></span><a href="http://speciallydesignedblog.blogspot.com/2010/08/what-wizard-said.html">These were given to us by The Wizard</a> some years back, and when I dug them out several months ago, I was thrilled to see that I could still order things.<span style=""> </span>This website is straightforward, just like their materials.<span style=""> </span>There is not a lot of “fluff” or clutter to distract <s>me</s> the student from the main concepts.<br /><br />Their reading comprehension series has questions to answer. I know someone who likes to do homework who may love these!<br /><p class="MsoNormal">I also like that there are so many levels to choose from.<span style=""> </span>We have ordered several paperback books that are high interest/low level.<span style=""> </span>They offer many great classics, such as Robin Hood and The Trojan Horse.<span style=""> </span>The science curriculum is fabulous, too, and we used that years ago.<span style=""> </span>The stories are factual and interesting, without a lot of fanfare.<span style=""> </span>I am thinking of getting a new one on my son’s level, just for fun, since he is very interested in science. I may just read them aloud.<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I recently ordered a critical thinking workbook for N, and I will let you know how that goes.<span style=""> </span>There is so much to be had here!<span style=""> </span>Take a look and see what you think.<span style=""> </span>I would love to work for a place like this.<span style=""> </span>It combines all my loves – reading, gaining information, learning new things—all at one’s own comprehension level.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Check it out at <a href="http://www.phoenixlearningresources.com/cart.php?target=category&category_id=286">Phoenix Learning Resources</a>.<br /></p>Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-38945517937386621752011-02-24T19:09:00.000-08:002011-03-14T20:46:43.752-07:00"Radio" TortureOh, my husband! He signed us back up for Netflix and has had a great string of movies coming. He has single-handedly picked them all, and it is nice to be surprised by what he chooses. (I did not care for "Sherlock Holmes", which we didn't finish, but the rest have been winners.) Tonight's surprise was the movie "Radio." I have put off seeing it because the clip I had seen was nothing short of gut-wrenching.<br /><br />So, we all 3 watched it together and I really cried. (Not the stray-tear-down-the-cheek kind of crying, either.) Whew. I am still processing and getting it back together. What a great story! What a hard one to watch, though, as parents of a child with special needs! Did you see "I am Sam"? Same thing, but I got through it, as well.<br /><br />I wondered how my son was viewing it and if he saw himself in it at all. I am thinking he did not. A few minutes after it was over, he came to me and said, "You know what is on my heart? People who don't have enough to eat. I want to do something about it. I think that is what God wants me to do." Wow. The young man in the movie could not afford certain things and appeared hungry at one point, but I was surprised that that is what stirred him. I told him I would help him do something about this. (Which only started the tears again!)<br /><br />He really is my inspiration.Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-23233940321442571212011-02-16T11:19:00.000-08:002011-02-21T14:43:41.915-08:00Reading by Example (Except it rarely works)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWZtSELMyrxX8gtGd87BY_BJc4Slg11MLZs9X_EwtbVWhBmb9fdMhoOLU3_SLIfEA-D7nSXd1Q44ksYWl5QHUDycDWG5Xd5BSAReKJGGoolEg-6iGtFXChxDe-bz4TImjDeXv9S2cPZ5aj/s1600/039.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWZtSELMyrxX8gtGd87BY_BJc4Slg11MLZs9X_EwtbVWhBmb9fdMhoOLU3_SLIfEA-D7nSXd1Q44ksYWl5QHUDycDWG5Xd5BSAReKJGGoolEg-6iGtFXChxDe-bz4TImjDeXv9S2cPZ5aj/s400/039.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574369489348729570" border="0" /></a>Well, if it only works for snow days when there is low activity around the house, so be it! As I have said, it bothers me no small amount that <a href="http://speciallydesignedblog.blogspot.com/2010/11/peace-out-at-library.html">this teen does not enjoy reading for pleasure</a>. However, with our recent snow (and no school for 3 days!), my husband and I enjoyed quite a bit of reading. One day I walked into the family room to discover this scene and nearly fell out! I guess he started thinking, "If you can't beat 'em, then join 'em!" <span style="font-weight: bold;">YES!</span> (I am pumping my fist, even as I type!)<br /><br />I haven't seen it since, though. We have had 69 degree weather the last few days, so it is outdoors and basketball for this young man. I wish it made him happy to read alone, like it does me. But, he is a mover and a shaker and much prefers to get physical. Guess I'll have to wait for more snow.Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-40181239924613465962011-02-16T11:03:00.000-08:002011-02-16T11:45:22.540-08:00Stay Strong!<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:donotpromoteqf/> <w:lidthemeother>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:lidthemeasian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:lidthemecomplexscript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> <w:splitpgbreakandparamark/> <w:dontvertaligncellwithsp/> <w:dontbreakconstrainedforcedtables/> 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mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">I am feeling so strongly that I should be offering resources regarding marriage and raising kids with special needs. It is REALLY on my heart, so here goes. (It is only two days post-Valentine's so I will take the liberty . . . .)<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">If you had any words of wisdom to offer another set of parents regarding marriage and raising a child with special needs, what would they be?<span style=""> </span>I have thought about this a lot and have only been asked a few times, so you will see that I have been saving up for you, people!<span style=""> </span>No, not really, but in our case, it has gotten better marriage-wise, the farther we go.<span style=""> </span>(We had been married for 7 years when our little guy came along with Down syndrome.<span style=""> </span>We have celebrated 23 years together now.)</p> <p class="MsoNormal">In the beginning, it would have been good just to know that we would handle the news, the grief, and the adjustment differently.<span style=""> </span>Just as moms and dads handle most things with their children differently from each other (no kidding, right?).<span style=""> </span>Expecting your spouse to react and deal the same as you only creates a chasm between you.<span style=""> </span>However, at the time, you have no idea this is happening and feel the big “disconnect”, which is a lonely feeling.<span style=""> </span>Our guys are just different from us women.<span style=""> </span>And they feel so responsible for us and for putting up a good front to be strong.<span style=""> </span>Looking back, it is quite sweet, but at the time it was frustrating.<span style=""> </span>Communication, communication, communication!</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Some resources I have recently found:</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2009/02/02/save-my-marriage/1972/">http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2009/02/02/save-my-marriage/1972/</a><span style=""> </span>This is a woman who is a family therapist and who has a son with Fragile X.<span style=""> </span>She really gets it, and this interview with her is great.<span style=""> </span>She talks about the need for support and getting stuck in grief, which is what I think happened to me years ago.<span style=""> </span>She has a yearly retreat called “Healing the Mother’s Heart.” </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span><a href="http://www.disaboom.com/children-with-disabilities/for-better-or-worse-and-kids-with-disabilities">http://www.disaboom.com/children-with-disabilities/for-better-or-worse-and-kids-with-disabilities</a><span style=""> </span>This is a good article which highlights some good communication skills. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.focusonthefamily.com/parenting/parenting_challenges/parenting_a_special_needs_child.aspx">http://www.focusonthefamily.com/parenting/parenting_challenges/parenting_a_special_needs_child.aspx</a><span style=""> </span>This article even offers a 1-800 number if you need to speak with a counselor.<span style=""> </span>They also have an online parenting community for parents of children with special needs.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Married-Special-Needs-Children-Couples-Connected/dp/1890627100">http://www.amazon.com/Married-Special-Needs-Children-Couples-Connected/dp/1890627100</a><span style=""> </span>I know I have referenced this one twice already!<span style=""> </span>I really am enjoying it, though.<span style=""> </span>It has a section on “Heartfelt conflicts : opposing views on protection, expectations, and helping your child.”<span style=""> </span>We need to keep looking for what will help us get strong and stay strong as couples!</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Ideas?</p>Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-1983262507733692822011-02-10T12:12:00.000-08:002011-03-14T20:46:00.497-07:00Mmmm, breakfast!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCNZqbNfkVHd1-E1fNRwkYYjS7VuFwJ_1QmY0FS8G6AB-ehyphenhyphen45BPXsJ_Kc15oTTXddf8AcrV9YK1LxF55ZsS04swKjnDPrzRRdxAutEXQw6284wyQdgCNG8nAwyjdBovcK_66kPEffKDWJ/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCNZqbNfkVHd1-E1fNRwkYYjS7VuFwJ_1QmY0FS8G6AB-ehyphenhyphen45BPXsJ_Kc15oTTXddf8AcrV9YK1LxF55ZsS04swKjnDPrzRRdxAutEXQw6284wyQdgCNG8nAwyjdBovcK_66kPEffKDWJ/s320/004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5572158750784388034" border="0" /></a> (Yummy Omelet, by "N")<br /><br /><br />I meant to post yesterday but I did not get around to it. I was too busy lounging in my pj's and reading. Turns out, the great storm that was predicted to dump a bunch of snow on us did just that! I can't remember ever seeing this much snow in our southern state. So, naturally (and luxuriously), two days worth of work and school have been canceled. We are in happy, lazy bliss over here. I really love to have only a few options for my day, and I do not feel imprisoned as some do (but check with me in a few days).<br /><br /><a href="http://speciallydesignedblog.blogspot.com/2011/01/stuck-inside-and-i-am-excited.html">Last time this happened, I was in happy, productive mode</a>. That hit at about 8:00 pm yesterday. I suddenly got this urge to have something to show for the day, other than a bunch of pages read, so I cleaned out some drawers and did a few other things I have been putting off. But today, it is back to lounging. (That antsy, productive urge will hit after dark sometime.)<br /><br />While I was sleeping in this morning, my dear son was cooking himself breakfast. Seems I reminded him of his love for omelets yesterday when I made him one with bacon and swiss cheese. We had homemade biscuits on the side, which he adores. Anyway, after I got up, he showed me a picture he had taken of the omelet he made, since there was not one for me! (He knows I do not like them crispy, which is the only way he turns them out.) I was very amazed at both his photography and his use of chopped vegetables!<br /><br />I never know what he'll do when I'm asleep. Maybe if I go back to bed, he'll cook some lunch.Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-82837795534681719272011-02-08T10:47:00.000-08:002011-03-14T20:44:33.446-07:00Lookin' Good<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:donotpromoteqf/> <w:lidthemeother>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:lidthemeasian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:lidthemecomplexscript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> <w:splitpgbreakandparamark/> <w:dontvertaligncellwithsp/> <w:dontbreakconstrainedforcedtables/> 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mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">What is it about the stigma of kids with disabilities that makes me try a little harder to make my son look his best?<span style=""> </span>I do not want him treated poorly because of the way he looks, so the pressure is on to help him look the best he can.<span style=""> </span>(I have always tried to keep his mouth and nose clean as he has fought against me!)<span style=""> </span>Why is this more important with him than it was with his brother?<span style=""> </span>It definitely is, though.<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Now that he is older, we go ‘round and ‘round about the hair.<span style=""> </span>The fact that he is a teenager and does not want me to style his hair, but wants to do it himself is a sticky situation (almost daily).<span style=""> </span>He likes to comb it straight down into a line across his forehead.<span style=""> </span>I can’t stand it and think it looks awful.<span style=""> </span>I try to playfully get in one little brush swipe to the side, but he goes nuts!<span style=""> </span>The way he styles it reminds me of those bowl cuts that people often give kids with Down syndrome.<span style=""> </span>(Why does this happen???)</p> <p class="MsoNormal">It is true that the way we are treated is often influenced by how we look.<span style=""> </span>I think that many parents of children with special needs go above and beyond to help their kids look good because the cards are stacked against the initial perception of our children.<span style=""> </span>Some would say that it is other people’s problem if they don’t like my son’s hair or the leftover lunch on his face.<span style=""> </span>But the reality is, it is not.<span style=""> </span>It becomes my son’s problem.</p>Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-12424787388315085212011-02-07T15:53:00.000-08:002011-02-16T11:42:40.954-08:00Marriage -- Guard it!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqEzvry9iKIWPYsItSEUw262dfthwTo98kw0CunIHLNGKe0fGF3TXCT5kuKsHfFcZNUbQAd0WUdz9r_wdeNOSTJQLg7m6NbqbetLbN4C_F50J8SjrWHLATbN42pV8HKIySlaP5x3s4Jjw6/s1600/099.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqEzvry9iKIWPYsItSEUw262dfthwTo98kw0CunIHLNGKe0fGF3TXCT5kuKsHfFcZNUbQAd0WUdz9r_wdeNOSTJQLg7m6NbqbetLbN4C_F50J8SjrWHLATbN42pV8HKIySlaP5x3s4Jjw6/s320/099.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5571121022304091602" border="0" /></a><br />Well, I was on to something even if I did not know that I was. I posted a few days ago <a href="http://speciallydesignedblog.blogspot.com/2011/02/guide-to-keeping-connected.html">about the book I am reading</a>, "Married With Special Needs Children, A Couples Guide to Keeping Connected . . .". The more I read in it, the more I am convinced that you should read it if the title applies to you. I am seeing that we are similar in our dilemmas and differences; it is really amazing to read and see something that you think is unique to your situation, and it isn't!<br /><br />About what I was on to --- turns out this week is <a href="http://www.nationalmarriageweekusa.org/">National Marriage Week</a>. Now, isn't that a good reason to do something to better your union? Yes! How about beginning some small habit that strengthens your marriage? What could it be? Email your spouse during the day to say "hi" and something encouraging? Set up a time to go out -- just the two of you? Fix his favorite dinner just because? Do something that brings back old (and good) memories! Do something that will make him laugh. Whatever you come up with, just do it. I'd love to hear about it.Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023872581467631891.post-4905787028627107892011-02-02T08:09:00.000-08:002011-02-16T11:41:53.094-08:00Special Exposure Wednesday -- Feeling Nostalgic<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGO0kSmIs3E7gn51HV95ayIqe8csmas_QhcnC1b9wuGX3QDaLXnmHnvCfZTmtXGUlmErSC6uWmpP-SHo7kYwbglV3uPQ3YY05wb9q-0zfbznk_Ui4fF0IS5muRFEXIa07vuAL41yOhriSm/s1600/009.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGO0kSmIs3E7gn51HV95ayIqe8csmas_QhcnC1b9wuGX3QDaLXnmHnvCfZTmtXGUlmErSC6uWmpP-SHo7kYwbglV3uPQ3YY05wb9q-0zfbznk_Ui4fF0IS5muRFEXIa07vuAL41yOhriSm/s400/009.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569125438440098898" border="0" /></a>He doesn't look like he is 10 years old here, but he was. I am wishing for some younger days right now. I think it is because he got his braces recently and his mouth is hurting like crazy!! He wants them off, he said, even though his initial reaction was, "Awesome! These look cool!". Today they don't feel too cool. Poor guy. If I can get him to smile, I will show his new metal soon.<br /><br />For more great photos, see <a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/">5 minutes for Special Needs</a>.Johnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16421946642399695284noreply@blogger.com4